Yes, it can stain skin as well. Actually, you can apply it to the skin (via a recipe) to make it vibrant. This is common practice in India. I usually get turmeric powder (unadulterated) instead of raw.
And kitchenware for a couple of wash cycles too, I've found.
Only reason I've used the root is when I'm out of ginger. Not perfect substitute, but, meh, kind of okay.
And hands if you have light colored skin! I found this out the very hard way once and had to scrub a layer of skin off after I spilled some.
I simply can't use a chopping board if it doesn't look the part.