OCCUPATIONAL SKIN DISEASE
What is an Occupational Skin Disease
?
- An occupational skin disease (OSD) is any skin disorder which is
caused by a person's work. A person's existing skin disorder may also be
made much worse by work activities, and such cases are also considered
as OSDs.
- The commonest type of OSD is dermatitis, an inflammation of the
skin.
What are some causes of OSD ?
- Irritation
The commonest cause of OSD is irritation of the skin from contact
with substances at work. Strong irritants (such as acids, alkalis or
solvents) cause skin inflammation after a short period of skin contact.
Weak irritants (such as water, detergents, coolants) cause inflammation
after repeated exposures over a longer time.
- Allergy
Another important cause of OSD is allergy to substances handled at
work. Examples of substances which can cause skin allergies are cement,
metals and resins. Rubber gloves and boots worn for protection may
sometimes paradoxically cause allergy.
How can OSD be recognised ?
- OSD usually occurs on the parts of the body which come into contact
with work substances. OSDs occur most frequently on the hands and
forearms.
- Early signs of OSD include dryness, redness and itch of the skin. If
severe, the skin may become swollen and vesicles may develop. The skin
may eventually become cracked, scaly and thickened.
- These skin changes often improve when the worker is away from work,
such as during weekends and holidays. Fellow workers who do the same job
may also have similar skin problems.
What should be done for OSD ?
- Any skin disorder which is suspected to be associated with work
should be reported to the company nurse or doctor immediately. OSDs
which are recognised and treated early can be cured. Do not let OSDs
remain untreated - if left alone, they may become serious and chronic.
- Very Often, skin allergy tests are necessary to determine the cause
of the OSD. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist for these
tests.
Can OSD be prevented ?
Yes. Once the cause of OSD has been identified, your doctor can
advise you on how to avoid the causative substance, thereby preventing
the OSD from recurring.
The ideal method of prevention is to substitute the substance which
causes the OSD with another which is less harmful to the skin.
If this is not possible, skin contact with the substances can be
reduced by :
- Installing devices in work operations, such as local exhaust
ventilation, splash guards and screens.
- Informing workers of any risks of OSD in the work environment, and
education on proper work habits to avoid skin contact with harmful
substances as far as possible.
- Providing suitable, adequate and accessible protective equipment
and washing facilities. These should be properly maintained and used.
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