Korean J Occup Environ Med.
2008 Jun;20(2):127-131.
Cement Burn from Waterproof Work: A Case Study
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Korea.
- 2Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Korea. euna0@dreamwiz.com
Abstract
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BACKGROUND: Portland cement, which is a common material used in the construction industry, is known to cause caustic burns due to its alkalinity. Although cement burns are frequent and can be severe, many workers are inadequately aware of its risks.
CASE: A 39-year-old man presented with exudative lesions and pain on his right hand after working with wet cement during waterproof work. The patient stated that wet cement entered his protective glove and he did not wash the cement off for 3 hours. Debridement of necrotic tissue and skin grafting was performed on his second and fifteenth hospital day respectively.
CONCLUSION
The prevention of cement burns can be improved by extensive risk instruction and the provision of adequate skin protection.
