Cement An odourless white to grey powder slightly

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

When cement is mixed with water such as when making concrete or mortar, or when the cement becomes damp, a strong alkaline solution is produced. If this comes into contact with the eyes or skin it may cause serious burns and ulceration. The eyes are particularly vulnerable and damage will increase with contact time. 2.1 Hazard characterisation Xi Irritant R37/38 Irritating to respiratory system and skin R41 Risk of serious damage to eyes R43 May cause sensitisation by skin contact www.hanson.com/uk Inhalation: Yes Skin/eyes: Yes Ingestion: No, except in accidental cases 2.3 Human health Inhalation: Frequent inhalation of large quantities of cement dust over a long period of time increases the risk of developing lung diseases. Eyes: Eye contact with cement (dry or wet) may cause serious and potentially irreversible injuries. Skin: Strong alkaline solutions in contact with the skin tend to damage the nerve endings first before damaging the skin, therefore chemical burns can develop without pain being felt at the time. Hence, prolonged skin contact with wet cement, fresh concrete or mortar may cause serious burns. Cement, mortar and concrete mixes may, until set, cause irritant dermatitis: Irritant contact dermatitis is due to a combination of the wetness, alkalinity and abrasiveness of the constituent materials. If used outside of the declared shelf life, there may be a risk of allergic dermatitis. Allergic dermatitis is caused mainly by the sensitivity of an individual’s skin to soluble chromium (VI).

Environmental hazards

Under normal use, the product is not expected to be hazardous to the environment.