Skin diseases are the most common on-the-job illness.  Irritant contact dermatitis remains the most common occupational skin disease.  It is usually associated with toxic reactions to chemicals used in the workplace.  Another area of concern to OSHA is dermal protection associated with sun exposure causing skin cancer.

One of the best ways to protect your 2,800 square inches of skin is to keep it covered up.

General Hazards:

¨    Dermatitis is the name for rashes, itching, swelling and other irritations that develop from exposure to substances.

¨    Sensitization is allergy-like reactions, including rashes, that may be experienced whenever in the vicinity of a chemical following frequent or long exposure.

¨    Skin can be burned by a flame, hot surface, electrical exposure or exposure to a corrosive substance.

¨    Cuts, bruises, and other wounds can let bacteria in to the skin and lead to infections.

Skin protection tips:

¨    Use the least hazardous substance that will do the job.

¨    Keep chemical containers closed when not in use.

¨    Follow MSDS handling instructions.

¨    Bandage any small scrapes or cuts before putting on gloves or protective clothing.

¨    Wash promptly and thoroughly after working with hazardous substances.

¨    Don’t clean hands with solvents or industrial detergents.

¨    Apply barrier skin creams and lotions to clean, non-irritated skin before starting job.

¨    Wash and dry skin thoroughly at the end of work.

¨    Wear sun block when working outside.

First Aid for Skin Problems:

¨    Chemical Exposure.  Wash the exposed skin thoroughly with lots of soap and water for at least 15 minutes.  If your clothing was exposed to the hazardous substance, try to remove it while wearing gloves.

¨    Minor Burn.  Rinse in cold water and put on a sterile bandage. 

¨    Skin cut.  Wash with soap and water and cover with a sterile bandage.