Occupational dermatitis is a common industrial disease in the UK. It is caused by exposure to a number of substances such as chemical, dusts and glues. Prolonged contact can cause skin-related problems such as inflammation and irritation due to your work activity.
What precautionary measures employers must take to prevent the risk of occupational dermatitis?
Employers should take the following safety precautions to reduce the risk of employees developing occupational dermatitis:
- Conduct a thorough analysis at work to determine any relevant risk factors for occupational dermatitis
- Workers should get the appropriate training for the use of hazardous chemicals
- Provide workers with the appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, gauntlets, barrier creams, etc., to reduce direct contact with toxic materials
- Provide enough washing facilities in the workplace
- Substitute substances that don’t pose a risk should be used where possible
Common causes that lead to occupational dermatitis
Dermatitis at work can have a variety of causes. A personal is more likely to develop skin conditions if they work with wet hands and are exposed to cleaning products like soap and detergents, as well as dyes, paints, bleaches, acids, alkalis, oils and greases, organic solvents etc.
Workers who handle substances like rubber, latex, cement, petroleum, nickel, flour etc. are also at risk. There are but a few of the numerous materials and products that might harm the skin and cause problems.
Additionally, prolonged, and persistent exposure to contaminated surfaces might result in dermatitis. Dermatitis can occasionally be brought on by airborne substances that settle on the skin. It can sometimes also happen as a result of abrasion, radiation, or vibration.
What are the symptoms of occupational dermatitis?
Some of the most common symptoms of occupational dermatitis are:
- Itching
- Redness
- Change or loss of skin colour
- Blotchiness
- Cracking of the skin
Can I claim occupational dermatitis compensation?
- Your employer breached their duty of care
- It has been determined that you have occupational dermatitis
- Your employer’s negligence is directly linked to your suffering
How to prove your dermatitis was caused at work
- Photographic evidence: Taking pictures of your dermatitis is a good idea and can help to support any medical records. Additionally, you might take pictures or videos of your working environment.
- Medical reports: Typically, industrial dermatitis claims won’t proceed unless your doctor or another medical practitioner has diagnosed the condition.
- Witnesses: Witnesses could be a crucial part of your evidence in supporting your claim. Statements could be asked of your colleagued by your solicitor to explain how the working conditions have resulted in your contraction of the skin condition.
- Employer documentation: It’s crucial that you keep records of any documentation from your employer, whether that’s emails or letters. These will be imperative subsequent steps in your compensation claim.
