PPE for Mixing and Pouring Concrete

1. Mixing concrete can have potential health effects as it contains dangerous compounds and elements, such as lime, chromium, and silica. These hazards can be harmful when working with both dry and wet concrete.

2. Concrete work typically involves using your hands so it is important to keep them covered with gloves. It is recommended to wear butyl or nitrile gloves that are alkali-resistant. However, if your skin comes into contact with wet or dry concrete, wash in cool water with a pH-neutral soap.

3. Continuous contact of wet concrete on the skin can cause inflammation, which results in redness, itching, blisters, swelling, and other conditions sometimes referred to as "concrete burn".

4. By the time you become aware of a concrete burn, it is likely too late and the damage has already happened. Seek health care immediately as delaying will cause further damage to the skin.

5. Eye protection should be worn to protect from eye irritation or burns. At a minimum, safety glasses should have eye shields. If using goggles, make sure they fit comfortably but are secured to your face.

6. Wear long sleeves and pants to keep your skin covered as much as possible and rubber boots should be worn to prevent your feet from getting wet.

7. Concrete dust is released during bag cutting or dumping, which can be caustic to your lungs, irritate your eyes, and can potentially cause chemical burns on your skin if it contacts moisture (like sweat). Mix dry concrete in a well-ventilated area.

8. When mixing dry concrete can't be done in a well-ventilated area, wear respiratory protection. All respiratory protection must be approved by your employer to ensure you have the right protection for the hazard.

9. What other potential hazards can come from mixing and pouring concrete? Is there additional PPE we can use to protect us from hazards?

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