Managing Skin Conditions
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.
Types of Work-related Skin Disease or Conditions
Occupational skin diseases or conditions can include:
- Dermatitis
- Urticaria
- Skin cancer
- Pigmentation changes
- Skin infections
- Latex allergies
- Product allergies
High Risk Occupations
Work-related skin diseases can occur in any job, but they are more common in certain higher risk occupations, including:
- Catering
- Health services
- Metal machinery
- Construction trades
- Hairdressing
- Dentistry
- Printing
- Motor vehicle repair
Further information on high risk occupations can be found on the HSE website.
Causes of Work Related Skin Conditions
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:
- Immersion
- Contact with contaminated tools or surfaces, for example a workbench, tools or clothing
- Splashing
- The substance landing on the skin
Ref: HSE (2012) Skin at work, IOSH (2015) Skin disorders.
Support Services and Resources Available
Help and Support Services
- Local, regional, and national patient support groups are available for those suffering from skin conditions; a full list of groups is available from the British Association of Dermatologists website.
- Visit the Fit for Work service pages for free occupational health advice, or call on 0800 107 0900.
Guidance
- Access further guidance on how work-related skin conditions affect individuals, and how to prevent and control them from the skin at work section on the HSE website.
- Access to factsheets, guidance, information and training materials for employees promoting skin safety at work from the IOSH website.
Updates and Further Information
- Access downloadable posters from the HSE website to promote good practice in skin care and use of gloves .
- Access public information leaflets on a wide range of skin conditions from the British Association of Dermatologists website .
- For further information on managing skin safety from UV radiation and working outside, visit our Sun Safety page.