Skin Disease

Using data from EPIDERM, which has been adjusted to take account of under-reporting and non-referral, the HSE's best estimate is that there were around 8,400 new cases of occupational contact dermatitis in 2004. This project strand of the DRP aims to reduce contact dermatitis by 10% by 2008, through embedding good practice in key at-risk sectors, which include hairdressing, catering, construction (particularly bricklayers and floor and wall tilers), cleaning and dentistry

As an advocate of this aim, BOHS has supported the development of a new HSE/British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) campaign 'It's In Your Hands' and its associated leaflet, which can be downloaded from our Publications section. We have also recently published a book, 'Controlling Skin Exposure to Chemicals and Wet-Work'  which is available to purchase for £19.99, also via Publications. If you work within one of the at-risk sectors, either as an employer, employee or in an advisory capacity, then this leaflet and the book should be of interest. Alternatively, take a look at the HSE's new dermal website, www.hse.gov.uk/skin which has sections for employers, employees and trainers.

Qualifications
We have developed a new Proficiency Module, 'P801 Control of Dermal Exposure at Work', which is aimed at anyone responsible for health in workplaces where there is a risk of skin exposure to chemicals and wet work, such as those within the at-risk sectors highlighted above. The module covers the health effects of skin exposure, skin as a route of exposure, assessment of skin exposure and methods of control of exposure. 

We have a flyer available about P801 for our members and course providers to use with clients or within their own organisations. Full details, including the syllabus and information about course providers and fees, can be found in the Examinations section.