Using Cement Safely
Although cement is easy to use, it is important to follow the
correct safety precautions. Appropriate personal protective
equipment should be worn to ensure people do not suffer allergic
dermatitis, irritant dermatitis or burns.
The following tips are designed to help you use cement in a safe
manner:
- Avoid eye and skin contact by wearing suitable eye protection,
waterproof clothing, waterproof footwear and waterproof
gloves.
- Ensure that cement does not enter boots or gloves.
- Do not kneel in wet cement. If kneeling is absolutely necessary
then appropriate waterproof personal protective equipment
must be
used.
- Avoid breathing dust.
- Keep out of the reach of children.
- On contact with eyes or skin, rinse immediately with plenty of
clean water. Seek medical advice after eye contact.
- Wash hands and face after working with cement, particularly
before eating and drinking.
- Cement should be used and stored as instructed on the delivery
ticket or bag and used within the period stated.
- Injuries can be caused by lifting cement sacks, particularly if
the overall load exceeds 25kg:
- Plan where you will be able to put down the load.
- Stand close to the load and spread your feet.
- Partly bend your knees but keep your back straight.
- Hold the load firmly.
- Raise your head as you begin to lift.
- Keep the load close to your body.
For further guidance, please refer to the HSE Cement:
Construction Information Sheet, which can be found at
www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/cis26.pdf.