Common Skin Infections in the Workplace

Causes and When to Claim Compensation

Our skin is our body’s first line of defence, but it is also vulnerable to common skin infections in the workplace. Whether it’s a latex allergy to skin cancer, poor hygiene or an unsafe environment, such as chemical exposure, may be the cause behind a skin condition developing.

Employers are required to provide proper safety measures in the workplace. However sometimes negligence in the workplace may result in injury or disease. These also have the potential to cause long term harm. If this has happened to you, you may be able to file a personal injury claim for compensation.

Find out more about your potential claim for compensation by

Find out more about your potential claim by contacting the Jefferies Claims team.

Common Workplace Skin Conditions and Infections

Latex Allergy

Latex allergy is a common occupational skin condition, particularly among healthcare workers who frequently wear latex gloves. The allergy is triggered by proteins found in natural rubber latex, leading to reactions such as:

• Itchy skin
• Rashes
• Redness and swelling
• In severe cases, respiratory distress

Latex allergy can escalate from skin irritation to anaphylaxis if not managed. Many employers now provide latex-free alternatives, but exposure still occurs in outdated systems or poorly equipped workplaces.

Occupational Acne

Also known as “industrial acne,” occupational acne is caused by exposure to certain workplace contaminants, including:

• Oil and grease
• Chlorinated hydrocarbons
• Dust and chemicals

This condition most commonly affects mechanics, factory workers, or those in the petrochemical industry. It can appear on the face, back, and arms, often worsening over time without intervention.

Hives (Urticaria)

Various allergens may trigger hives in the workplace, including:

• Cleaning products
• Rubber or latex
• Food allergens
• Temperature changes or stress

Raised, itchy welts on the skin may indicate hives have developed. While typically short-lived, chronic urticaria can indicate persistent allergen exposure. Apart from harm caused, this indicates that changes may be required in the work environment.

Occupational Skin Cancer

Skin cancer can result from prolonged exposure to UV rays. Outdoor workers can be susceptible to these cancers, such as:

• Construction workers
• Agricultural workers
• Landscapers
• Road maintenance crews

Non-melanoma skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are more common. However, melanoma which is a more dangerous cancer can also occur. A lack of proper sun protection can heighten the risk.

Dermatitis

Occupational dermatitis is one of the most reported skin conditions in the workplace. It occurs when the skin comes into contact with irritants or allergens such as:

• Solvents
• Cleaning agents
• Dyes
• Cement
• Dust or abrasive materials

Symptoms include redness, itching, flaking, blistering, and cracked skin. Workers in manufacturing, construction, food services, hairdressing, and healthcare are particularly at risk.

General Skin Infections

Workplaces with poor hygiene practices or shared equipment can expose workers to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. This may include:

• MRSA or staph infections (common in healthcare or gym environments)
• Ringworm or athlete’s foot (from shared locker rooms or damp footwear)
• Impetigo (a contagious bacterial infection)

Cuts, scrapes, or open wounds can allow pathogens to enter the skin. This results in an  increase in the risk of infection.

Which Work Environments Pose the Greatest Risk?

Due to materials or products used, certain industries and job types carry a higher risk for occupational skin conditions:

Industry	Risk Factors
Healthcare	Latex, disinfectants, frequent handwashing
Construction	Cement, dust, UV exposure, abrasives
Food Service	Frequent washing, food allergens, detergents
Manufacturing	Oils, chemicals, industrial solvents
Beauty & Hairdressing	Hair dyes, bleaching agents, direct contact with water
Outdoor Work	Sun exposure, plant allergens, weather conditions
Cleaning Services	Strong cleaning agents, disinfectants, repetitive exposure

Employers in these sectors should conduct risk assessments, provide personal protective equipment (PPE), and train staff to prevent skin exposure.

Can You Claim Compensation for Skin Conditions?

If your skin condition is a result of employer negligence, you may consider making a personal injury claim.

Employer negligence may cover the following:

• Your employer failed to provide appropriate PPE
• Risk assessments were not carried out or were ignored
• You were not given adequate training on handling hazardous substances
• Safety protocols or hygiene standards were lacking
• You were exposed to known allergens without alternatives or warnings

A claim for compensation generally covers medical expenses, which includes treatment, specialist care and medications. It may also include lost wages, pain and suffering and long-term impact e.g. scarring or on-going symptoms. You will have to show that the negligence directly resulted in your skin condition.

How to Make a Skin Condition Injury Claim

If you’ve developed a skin condition due to work, it is important to seek medical advice and get a proper diagnosis. Also make sure, you inform your employer and that this is logged in the accident book.

Gathering evidence is crucial for a claim. This may include your medical records, PPE logs at your workplace and witness statements. It is important to chat to a personal injury lawyer who can advise you on the process and assess your case.

Most personal injury claims must be made within three years of the incident or diagnosis.

If you, or a loved one, has been diagnosed with hearing loss at work, Jefferies Claims can guide you through the process. We work with highly experienced lawyers in this field who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and we will give you the support and understanding you need. Call us at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Us Page to learn more.