Concrete is easy to work with, versatile, durable and economical. By observing a few basic precautions, it is also safe — one of the safest building materials known.

The following are some simple suggestions from the Portland Cement Association for anyone working with cement and concrete. The jobsite should be adequately marked to warn the public of construction activities.

Fences, barricades, and warning signs can be used to restrict public access. And the work area should be kept clean and uncluttered to minimize hazards to workers.

Construction equipment and tools represent constant potential hazards to busy construction personnel. That’s why hard hats are required on construction projects.

It is therefore recommended that some sort of head protection, such as a hard hat or safety hat, be worn when working any construction job, large or small. Proper eye protection is essential when
working with cement or concrete. Eyes are  particularly vulnerable to blowing dust, splattering concrete, and other foreign objects.

On some jobs it may be advisable to wear full-cover goggles or safety glasses with side shields. Remember that sight is precious. Protect the head and eyes by using proper safety equipment and remaining alert.

All materials used to make concrete Portland Cement, coarse aggregate, sand, and water-can be quite heavy even in small quantities. When lifting heavy materials, your back should be straight, legs bent, and the weight between your legs as close to the body as possible. Do not twist at the waist while lifting or carrying these items. Rather than straining your back with a heavy load, get help. Remember to use your head, not your back.

Let mechanical equipment work to your advantage by placing concrete as close as possible to its final position. When working with fresh concrete, care should be taken to avoid skin irritation or chemical burns. Prolonged contact between fresh concrete and skin surfaces, eyes, and clothing may result in burns that are quite severe, including third-degree burns. If irritation persists consult a physician. For deep burns or large affected skin areas, seek medical attention immediately.
The A-B-Cs of fresh concrete’s effect on skin are:
• Abrasive Sand contained in fresh concrete is abrasive to bare skin.
• Basic & Portland cement is alkaline in nature, so wet.
• Caustic concrete and other cement mixtures are strongly basic (pH of 12 to 13). Strong bases-like strong acids-are harmful, or caustic to skin.
• Drying Portland cement is hygroscopicit absorbs water. In fact, portland cement needs water to harden. It will draw water away from any material it contacts including skin. FSM