What To Do If You Get a Bleach Burn on the JobSimple First Aid Steps Every Pressure Washing Contractor Should Know
- Trudi Weickum
- Jul 19
- 2 min read
If you work around sodium hypochlorite (SH), it’s only a matter of time before it hits your skin — especially in this industry.
Bleach burns don’t always start dramatic. Sometimes it’s just a slight tingle or itch. But if you ignore it, or if you keep working through it, that irritation can turn into something much worse.
I’ve seen guys with blistered arms, peeling skin, and even chemical burns that took weeks to heal — all from thinking “it’s just bleach.”
So let’s fix that.
Here’s What To Do If You Get a Bleach Burn
Whether it’s a splash, soak-through, or slow leak from a backpack sprayer — these steps could make the difference between minor irritation and serious injury.
🔥 1. Rinse Immediately — and Rinse Long
Get cool, clean water on the affected area as soon as possible.
Rinse the area for at least 15 minutes
Don’t scrub or rub — just let the water flush the chemical away
If it's on your face, tilt your head so it doesn't run into your eyes or mouth
👕 2. Remove Contaminated Clothing
If bleach soaked through your sleeves, socks, or pants — take them off.
Bleach can sit in the fabric and continue burning your skin even after you rinse.
Keep a change of clothes on your truck for this exact reason. Trust me — you’ll be glad you did.
🩹 3. Cover the Burn
After rinsing, cover the area with a clean, sterile bandage or dressing to protect it from air and contamination.
Avoid ointments or oils right away — unless recommended by a doctor — as they can trap heat.
💊 4. Reduce Pain and Swelling
Over-the-counter medications like:
Ibuprofen
Naproxen
Acetaminophen
…can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Follow the label and monitor the burn over time.
🌿 5. Apply Aloe Vera
Once the area is cool and clean, you can apply pure aloe vera gel to help soothe inflammation and support healing.
Avoid scented lotions, antiseptics, or harsh creams unless prescribed.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should see a doctor if:
🚩 The burn covers a large area.
🚩 There’s severe blistering or skin damage.
🚩 You experience dizziness, shortness of breath, or nausea.
🚩 The burn is on your face, eyes, or genitals.
Don’t wait. It’s not weakness to get help — it’s smart.
How to Prevent It Next Time
🧤 Wear gloves — not the cheap kind.
🧥 Use long sleeves and bleach-resistant gear.
🧼 Wash down after the job — not just your equipment.
🧰 Inspect sprayers, hoses, and fittings regularly for leaks or wear.
🎒 Don’t wear soaked gear all day just because it’s “part of the job”.
We Cover This and More at the Panhandle Pressure Washing Expo
At the Panhandle Expo, we don’t just teach how to grow your business — we teach how to protect your body, your crew, and your future.
✅ Chemical safety
✅ On-the-job injury response
✅ PPE that actually works
✅ Real contractor case studies and recovery stories
🎟️ Register today and learn how to clean smarter — and stay safer.
By Trudi Weickum | Industry Educator | Panhandle Pressure Washing Expo
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