Healthy Handling 2005: Wet cement skin
Contact may lead to dermatitis and burns
Consider
- dermatitis is a disabling condition that can end careers
- caused by allergic reaction or irritation
- one in ten persons susceptible
- reduced by preventing exposure
Wet cement
Dermatitis and burns can be caused by contact with cement and cement products
Brick and block layers are especially at risk from contact with mortar
HSE Inspectors will expect to find:
- assessment of risks from cement and management arrangements to control
exposure;
- hot and cold running water, adequate sized basins, means of washing
and drying hands;
- regular skin inspections by a trained, competent person where there
is residual risk.
Top tips
- Consider use of suitable gloves
- Keep hands clean by regular use of suitable welfare facilities provided
as soon as work starts on site
- Provide and use pre and post work hand creams
- Manage welfare facilities to keep them clean and working properly at
all times
- Encourage workers to report any occurrence of dermatitis
Cement CIS26
Provision of welfare facilities during construction work CIS59
Preventing contact dermatitis at work INDG233
Health surveillance
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