GENERAL AWARENESS OF
OCCUPATIONAL SKIN DISEASE
General Awareness
Occupational skin disease represents 8.5% of all occupational disease claims to WSIB.
Dermatitis is the most prevalent form, with 1,200 to 1,500 claims in Ontario annually,
but it is believed that less than half of the cases are reported. Occupational dermatitis
(OD) is often characterized by a rash and dry, cracked skin. It can cause significant pain,
discomfort, and can be debilitating, limiting the ability to work and the quality of life.
Causes
OD is generally caused by prolonged and frequent skin contact with a range of chemicals
commonly found in a workplace such as metalworking fluids, detergents, paints, beauty
products, resins, cleaning products, and other chemical agents. Workers in occupations
where those hazards are present are at a greater risk. Other common risk factors include
wet-work, mechanical irritation of the skin, and the prolonged use of dirty gloves.
Dermatitis can develop acutely or develop over time becoming a chronic disease. A
history of pre-existing allergies or skin disease has been associated with increased risk.
Recognition
Quite often OD goes unrecognized and is often not diagnosed as a work-related disease.
Early recognition is the key to treating OD. Common symptoms of OD:
- A skin rash that develops in the area that most commonly comes into contact
with a chemical
- Redness, itching, dryness and mild swelling on the skin
- Development of blisters, hives, cracked skin and burning sensation
- The hands are the most commonly affected areas, however, any unprotected skin
exposed to hazardous agents can present signs of dermatitis
Prevention
Workers should be aware of the hazards in their workplace that may cause OD. If
possible, they should avoid them completely, substitute a safer product, and always
wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. Employers should ensure that their
workers are aware of the hazardous agents and are trained according to safe standard
operating procedures. Workers should familiarize themselves with a product’s Material
Safety Data Sheet before using a chemical. If workers come in direct contact with a
chemical, they should wash the affected area immediately with warm water and mild
moisturizing soap. They should also advise their employer and doctor if they suspect
they are showing signs of OD.
Who to Talk to Employers should talk to their workers about occupational skin disease.
Workers, with any signs or symptoms, should talk to their employers and go see a doctor
as soon as possible.
Want to Know More See fact sheets on preventing and recognizing occupational skin
disease. Workplace Safety & Prevention Services website has additional information and
resources.
Turn this sheet over for more images and facts.
WSPS.CA
GENERAL AWARENESS OF
OCCUPATIONAL SKIN DISEASE
„ An occupational skin disease hazard can be a
substance used or generated in the workplace.
„ The first step in recognizing a potential skin
hazard is to identify what chemicals are being
used in a workplace.
„ An employer may need to change substances
used in the workplace or the way processes are
done to reduce exposure risks.
„ Some people may react severely to a substance
while others may not have a reaction at all.
„ Dermatitis is the most common occupational skin
disease. There are two forms of dermatitis:
allergic and irritant.
-
Irritant dermatitis can be acute or chronic.
Both are caused by direct and frequent
exposure to a hazardous substance, mechanical
irritation, use of dirty gloves, and or wet-work
(immersing hands in water for several hours or
washing skin in excess of 20 times per day)
-
Allergic dermatitis occurs when a person
becomes sensitive to a specific substance
– an allergen – and every time they are in
contact, a rash may develop. Sensitivity may
occur within days of exposure, but usually it
takes months or years.
„ A doctor will determine the likely cause of
occupational dermatitis by asking the worker
questions about the symptoms and workplace.
„ Employers should ensure that appropriate
personal protective equipment is available
and is being used.
„ Workers and employers should be encouraged to
check for early signs of occupational skin disease.
Early diagnosis and advice is important.
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WSPS.CA