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.
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.
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.
