Work-related skin conditions are very common and can affect people in a wide range of occupations. They can be incredibly painful, and sometimes have debilitating effects, including in some cases, employees no longer being able to work.
Employers demonstrating good practice in this area can help reduce sickness absence related to skin conditions, decrease ongoing costs associated with recruitment, training, and compensation claims.
Occupational skin diseases or conditions can include:
Work-related skin diseases can occur in any job, but they are more common in certain higher risk occupations, including:
Further information on high risk occupations can be found on the HSE website.
Work related skin problems are caused or made worse by coming into contact with substances such as chemicals, and also through having wet hands for long periods, while at work.
The skin can come into contact with substances through:
Ref: HSE (2012) Skin at work, IOSH (2015) Skin disorders.