Taking Care Of Your Skin At Work – Tips For Preventing Occupational Dermatitis

Occupational dermatitis is a common condition caused by exposure to irritants or allergens in the workplace. It can affect anyone but is most common in people who work in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. Symptoms include redness, itching, and rash, and if left untreated, it can lead to more serious skin conditions. 

In this guide, we will provide detailed step-by-step instructions on how to take care of your skin at work and tips for preventing occupational dermatitis. By understanding the causes and taking the necessary precautions, you can protect your skin and maintain its health.

The symptoms of occupational dermatitis

Occupational dermatitis is a serious skin condition that can have far-reaching effects. The longer it goes undetected, the greater the risk of long-term damage to the skin. People who are exposed to environmental irritants or allergens are especially at risk of developing this form of dermatitis. 

Common symptoms include redness and itchiness in affected areas, dryness and cracking of the skin, scaly patches, blistering and swelling, as well as thinning of the skin, which can make infections more likely. If you think you may be suffering from occupational dermatitis, it is important to seek medical advice right away in order to get an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment plan.

While skin problems may not sound to be a serious issue, dermatitis can have a significant impact on someone’s ability to work and enjoy everyday activities with friends and family. The seriousness of the issue can be seen through the  latest compensation amounts that have been awarded, which can reach close to £20,000

Understanding the causes of occupational dermatitis

Occupational dermatitis is a type of skin irritation that occurs as a result of exposure to certain substances in the workplace. These substances can include chemicals, soaps, detergents, solvents, and other irritants that come into contact with the skin. The condition can also be caused by prolonged exposure to water, as well as exposure to certain types of dust or other particles.

Certain industries are more likely to cause occupational dermatitis than others. For example, construction workers, factory workers, and healthcare professionals are at a higher risk of developing the condition due to the nature of their work. People who work with cleaning agents, paint, or other chemicals are also at an increased risk.

It’s important to understand the specific causes of occupational dermatitis in your workplace, so you can take the necessary precautions to protect your skin. If you are unsure about the specific irritants or allergens present in your workplace, it’s a good idea to speak with your employer or a safety professional to get more information.

Wear protective clothing to protect your skin

Wearing protective clothing is an important step in preventing occupational dermatitis. The type of protective clothing will depend on the specific irritants or allergens present in your workplace.

Gloves are an important piece of protective clothing that can help to shield your skin from irritants. When choosing gloves, it’s important to select a pair that is appropriate for the type of work you will be doing. Some materials, such as nitrile or neoprene, are more resistant to chemicals than others.

Long sleeves and pants can also be worn to protect your skin, though do choose breathable materials that will keep you cool and comfortable while you work.

Other protective clothing may include aprons, goggles, face masks, and respirators. It’s important to note that protective clothing should be properly maintained and replaced when worn out or damaged.

Use barrier creams

Barrier creams are formulated to help protect the skin from environmental irritants, chemicals, and other hazardous agents. They are essential for workers in certain industries, as they provide a layer of protection against contact dermatitis and other skin reactions caused by chemical exposure. 

Barrier creams also help to minimize drying, cracking, and chapping of the skin due to lack of moisture. Additionally, these creams can be used to keep hands clean and even hydrated after washing them, which also minimizes the chances of occupational dermatitis. When used correctly, barrier creams can be an effective way of protecting your skin while working in an industrial or hazardous environment.

Treating occupational dermatitis

Treating occupational dermatitis typically involves avoiding further contact with the causative agent or allergen and providing relief from symptoms. Medications such as topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and antibiotics may be recommended to reduce irritation, inflammation, and infection. 

Additional therapies such as phototherapy, ultraviolet light therapy, and topical creams may also be used to help relieve symptoms. If a serious allergic reaction is present, it is important that you seek urgent medical care. Taking steps to avoid known irritants can also help reduce your risk of developing occupational dermatitis in the first place.

Report the issue to your employer

If you believe that your occupational dermatitis is the result of conditions at work, it is important to report the issue to your employer. This will help protect you and other employees from similar issues in the future. 

Make sure you document any symptoms or reactions that you have experienced, as well as any details of how and when they occurred. It is also important to keep records of treatments, visits to healthcare providers, and any other information relevant to the issue. 

Your employer should investigate the matter further and take appropriate action to create a safe and healthy work environment for all.

When your employer doesn’t take the situation seriously.

If your employer is not taking the situation seriously and is not addressing the issue appropriately, there are a few steps you can take. You should start by getting in touch with your local occupational health and safety office to report the issue. They may have knowledge of common hazards in the workplace and be able to provide advice on what actions you can take. 

Additionally, it is worthwhile speaking to a legal professional who specialises in personal injury claims as they can advise you on any legal action that can be taken against your employer for their inaction.