Skin assessment/surveillance

Could your employees be at risk of skin disease at work? Jobs where workers’ hands are frequently wet or exposed to specific dusts, chemicals or latex gloves can result in contact or allergic skin reactions. These conditions may become chronic and disabling if appropriate advice, investigation and, in some instances, treatment isn’t given. Many employees are at risk of skin disease in their everyday jobs. Some skin problems such as dermatitis may be reportable to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR), if work is identified to be the cause. In many cases, simple skin checks by a responsible person in the workplace are sufficient to pick up any signs of skin damage before it becomes permanent. Where problems are identified, a referral to an occupational health specialist, such as Imperial Health at Work, can help resolve any issues.