Preventing Dermatitis:
Dermatisi is an inflammation of the skin caused by contact with chemicals such as epoxy resins, solvents such as paint thinners, cement and strong acids and alkalis.
5 steps to prevent dermatitis
1. Have you the basics on site?
A clean toilet, soap and hot and cold running water and towels.
If there are risks to the skin you will also need to consider the use of conditioning cream.
2. Do you use the following?
- Cement
- Epoxy resins
- Solvents
If so you need to decide could they harm health see attached (Click Here)
3. Decide how to prevent contact with these substances ;
- Use a safer product
- Automate?
- Limit use
- Wear appropriate gloves
4. Tell your employees
- about the risks and what you will do.
- what they have to do.
- You can give them the attached sheet which describes a skin care programme.
5. Decide if you need health surveillance and keep the situation under review.
What are the symptoms?
- Note the skin is red and dry
- It often feels itchy
- The backs of the hands are at highest risk .In people who use epoxy resins the face and around the eyes may be at risk
- If you need advice on how to manage the person at work; Contact EMAS
- Dermatitis is reportable to HSENI : (Click Here)
Gloves
- Use gloves made of the proper materials for the job (Click Here)
- Make sure the glove fit is correct
- Cotton Liners can prevent sweating
- Avoid Latex rubber gloves
For health surveillance and fitness checks: Click Here
For more information: Click Here
|
