Health and Safety Hazards in Concrete Work
Cement and aggregate both contain trace amounts of various hazardous compounds, all of which can result in serious short-term or long-term health problems.
by Bruce Hacket
are generally well aware of the potential health hazards of working with dry portland cement and wet concrete, and the necessary precautions that should be taken to avoid illness or injury. But it's wise to review those hazards and precautions every now and then to ensure against harmful exposure.
Cement and aggregate both contain trace amounts of crystalline silica, alkaline compounds such as calcium oxide, and hexavalent chromium, all of which can result in serious short-term or long-term health problems. For example, when concrete workers are using sanding equipment, dumping out bags of cement, or making dry sawcuts for decorative concrete applications, they create substantial volumes of airborne dust. This dust, if inhaled repeatedly over prolonged periods, can cause silicosis, a lung disease that can be disabling or even fatal. Exposure to cement dust containing crystalline silica can also cause serious eye irritation, chemical burns, or, in extreme cases, blindness. Some workers may find that airborne dust can cause mild skin reactions as well.
A small percentage of cement workers is likely to develop a hypersensitivity to the hexavalent chromium found in cement. This typically manifests itself in any number of allergies, most notably skin reactions or respiratory problems such as wheezing or asthma-like symptoms.
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