“Concrete poisoning” is a term commonly used to describe injuries from contact with concrete. It describes harm from direct skin or eye contact with wet concrete or inhaling concrete dust. Exposures can lead to serious health consequences, from chemical burns to respiratory problems. Understanding these risks is important for concrete workers.
Understanding Concrete Exposure Injuries
Concrete’s harmful properties stem from its chemistry. Wet concrete, due to Portland cement, is highly alkaline. Adding water to dry cement creates a caustic solution (pH > 12-13) as calcium oxide transforms into calcium hydroxide. This high alkalinity causes severe chemical burns by breaking down tissue upon skin or eye contact.
Concrete dust also poses a risk. It contains crystalline silica. Inhaling this dust can lead to serious respiratory conditions; microscopic silica particles scar lung tissue, causing irreversible damage.
How Exposure Occurs
Exposure to wet concrete occurs through direct physical contact. People might inadvertently kneel, sit, or step in wet concrete, allowing it to remain against skin. Splashes from mixing, pouring, or leveling concrete can also contact unprotected skin or eyes. Handling wet concrete without proper gloves or protective clothing also leads to exposure.
Inhalation exposure occurs when dry concrete is disturbed. Cutting, grinding, drilling, or sawing generate airborne dust. Mixing dry concrete with water or breaking up old concrete also releases dust. Dust can linger, posing a risk long after the activity stops.
Recognizing Symptoms
Symptoms vary by contact type. For skin exposure, initial irritation may be mild (redness, itching). Prolonged contact can lead to severe blistering, deep chemical burns, and tissue necrosis. Alkali burns appear slowly, so damage may occur before discomfort is felt.
Eye exposure to wet concrete or dust causes immediate irritation, redness, and pain. Blurred vision may occur; severe chemical burns can lead to permanent vision impairment. For respiratory exposure from inhaled dust, symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, and irritation of the nose and throat. Long-term or repeated inhalation can lead to chronic conditions like silicosis, a progressive lung disease.
Immediate Actions and Medical Treatment
Prompt action is essential after concrete exposure. For skin contact, immediately remove any contaminated clothing, jewelry, or protective gear, as these can trap wet concrete. Then, thoroughly rinse the affected skin with clean, cool water for at least 20 minutes. Some sources suggest adding a mildly acidic substance like vinegar to neutralize alkalinity.
If wet concrete or dust enters the eyes, flush them continuously with clean water for 15 to 30 minutes, keeping the eyelids open. Use an eyewash station. For inhalation exposure, move the individual to fresh air immediately. Seek professional medical attention for any significant exposure, as concrete burns can worsen and respiratory issues may require evaluation and treatment.
Preventing Concrete-Related Harm
Preventing concrete harm involves consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety practices. Always wear waterproof, heavy-duty, alkali-resistant gloves long enough to protect forearms. Long-sleeved shirts and durable long pants should cover exposed skin, along with waterproof boots that protect lower legs.
Safety glasses or goggles protecting against splashes and airborne dust are necessary. When working with concrete dust (e.g., cutting or grinding), an appropriate respirator (e.g., N95 mask) is recommended to prevent inhalation. Ensuring good ventilation and practicing proper hygiene (washing skin thoroughly after contact, avoiding eating or drinking in dusty areas) further reduces exposure risk.