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The Increasing Burden of Preventable Cement Burn Injuries
Hollie Moran1, Elizabeth Concannon1, Marcus Wagstaff1
1Adult Burns Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
ANZ Journal of Surgery
|July 14, 2026
Summary
Cement burns are increasing, particularly from DIY projects, despite awareness campaigns. These deep chemical burns often require surgery and highlight the urgent need for better public education and safety measures.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Dermatology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Cement is a common construction material, posing a risk of severe chemical burns due to its high alkalinity.
- Cement burns, though uncommon, can lead to deep tissue injuries requiring surgical intervention.
- Both professional and do-it-yourself (DIY) settings present risks for cement exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence and characteristics of cement burn injuries over a 5-year period.
- To compare current cement burn data with previous findings after public awareness initiatives.
- To identify trends and contributing factors in cement burn admissions.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case review of patients admitted to the Adult Burns Unit at The Royal Adelaide Hospital from 2020 to 2025.
- Analysis of injury incidence and patient demographics.
- Comparison with a 2014 case series from the same unit.
Main Results:
- Thirty-three cement burn cases were admitted between 2020-2025, a significant increase from the previous decade.
- The majority of injuries (60%) occurred in DIY settings, often from kneeling in wet cement.
- All patients were male, with a median age of 45 years; 79% required operative management.
Conclusions:
- Cement burn admissions are rising despite prior public awareness campaigns.
- DIY activities are a major contributor to these injuries.
- Enhanced public education, workplace safety, and product labeling are crucial to mitigate cement burn incidence.
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