Cement allergy

About cement allergy

Wet cement causes two distinct problems for workers. First, it is strongly alkaline (caustic), so prolonged skin contact can produce irritant dermatitis and even serious chemical cement burns, especially when wet cement is trapped inside boots or gloves. Second, many cements contain small amounts of hexavalent chromium (chromate), a well-recognised skin sensitiser that can cause genuine allergic contact dermatitis. Construction workers, bricklayers, concreters, tilers and labourers who handle wet mortar and concrete are the groups most commonly affected.

Irritant effects can appear quite quickly, while allergic sensitisation to chromate develops over repeated exposures before flaring. Symptoms include dry, cracked, itchy or weeping skin, usually on the hands, wrists and lower legs, and deeper ulcerating burns where wet cement stays in contact for long periods. Once chromate allergy is established, even brief contact can trigger dermatitis, and the skin may take a long time to settle. Symptoms often improve during holidays and away from site, then return with further exposure.

Diagnosis is guided by occupational health, and patch testing can confirm chromate allergy. Prevention centres on avoiding direct skin contact: waterproof gloves and boots, prompt washing, barrier measures and good working practices. The use of cement with reduced soluble chromate content has helped lower the rate of allergy. Cases of occupational dermatitis may be reportable under RIDDOR, and workers should have an occupational-health assessment. A severe or spreading burn needs prompt medical attention.