Risks: Dermatitis

Dermatitis, or contact dermatitis, is an inflammation of the skin that can happen when the skin comes in contact with an outside agent. It is sometimes called eczema. The main signs and symptoms are: dryness, redness, swelling, blistering, flaking, cracking, itching and pain. The most susceptible parts of the body are the hands, followed by the forearms and face.

Contact dermatitis at work is commonly caused by skin coming into contact with:

• Chemicals
• Frequent contact with water (e.g. more than two hours a day)
• Biological agents (e.g. plants, bacteria and fungi)
• Physical agents (e.g. vibration and ultraviolet radiation)
• Mechanical abrasion (e.g. abrasive substances such as sand and rough edged surfaces and tools)

There are two types of contact dermatitis: irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis.

Irritant contact dermatitis can flare up after a few contacts with a strong irritant or over a longer period from repeated contact with weaker irritants. Repeated or prolonged contact with water (e.g. more than 20 hand washes a day or having wet hands for more than two hours per day) can also cause irritant contact dermatitis.

Allergic contact dermatitis can develop quickly after only a few contacts with a substance. Sometimes it can take months or even years for the allergy to develop. Once you are allergic, you are likely to be allergic for life and this could happen at any time, even if you have had no problems previously in your career.

With allergic contact dermatitis, the things you can become allergic to at work might well also be in things you use at home - like shampoo or household cleaners. So if you become allergic to something at work it could well affect all aspects of your life.

Workers at most risk of developing contact dermatitis are those working in:

• Hairdressing and beauty
• Catering and hospitality
• Manufacturing (especially food, engineering, printing, rubber and chemicals)
• Cleaning
• Construction
• Healthcare

Workboost Wales has specialist advisers who can help you assess and reduce the risks of dermatitis occurring in your workplace. Call us now on 0845 609 6006 – remember our advice is free and confidential.

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