Effects of Skin Contact With Chemicals ― Guidance for Occupational Health Professionals and Employers

Chemical exposure in the workplace is a significant problem in the United States. More than 13 million workers in the United States are potentially exposed to chemicals via the skin. Skin disorders are among the most frequently reported occupational illnesses, resulting in an estimated annual cost in the United States of over $1 billion. While the rates of most other occupational diseases are decreasing, skin disease rates are actually increasing. Efforts to reduce or prevent skin problems in many work settings are lacking as too frequently workers, employers, and even occupational health professionals accept skin problems as part of the job. The tolerance of occupational skin problems must be lowered and the methods for assessing and reducing chemical exposures must be improved. As occupational health professionals or employers, it is important that you know how to identify and manage the risk of chemical exposures to the skin and prevent injury and illness associated with dermal exposure risks. This publication will provide occupational health professionals and employers with: knowledge of the major adverse health effects resulting from chemical exposures to the skin, information on recognizing chemical hazards, knowledge of intervention/prevention strategies, and sources of information related to skin disorders and prevention.