Wet Cement & Concrete Burns

Wet cement, concrete and mortar are strongly alkaline, with a pH around 12 or 13. They can cause serious chemical burns that develop slowly and painlessly. Many workers don't notice until hours later, when the damage is deep.

• Concrete Finishers
• Masons
• DIYers

How burns happen

• Wet cement soaks into boots and gloves and stays against the skin, especially at the knees and ankles.
• The alkali eats away at the skin. Burns can be first, second or third degree, and may need skin grafts.
• Splashes in the eyes can cause permanent damage.
• Some people develop allergic contact dermatitis from trace chromium in cement, with itchy, cracked, red skin that returns with each exposure.
• Dry cement dust irritates the nose, throat and eyes. See Silica.

Prevention

• Wear waterproof, alkali-resistant gloves (nitrile or rubber with long cuffs) and tall rubber boots. Wear pants over the top of the boots and tape or seal the joint so cement cannot run in.
• Wear long sleeves and pants; avoid cotton-only gloves that soak up wet cement.
• Use kneeling pads or boards when finishing; do not kneel in wet concrete without protection.
• Wear safety glasses or goggles when pouring, mixing or screeding.
• Remove jewelry and watches that trap cement.
• Wash hands and forearms with plain water often, and after work use mild soap and moisturizer. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Remove contaminated clothing quickly, and don't wear boots or gloves that are full of cement.

If cement contacts you

1. Brush off dry cement, then rinse the area with plenty of clean water for at least 15 minutes.
2. Remove contaminated clothes and boots, and wash underneath.
3. Eyes: flush with water for at least 15 minutes, holding eyelids open, and get medical help right away. See Eyewash & Showers.
4. Do not use vinegar or acids to neutralize on the skin; water is best.
5. See a doctor if the skin is red, blistered, painful or itchy after rinsing, or the exposure was prolonged. See Chemical Exposure First Aid.

Last updated: October 8, 2026