Industrial Dermatitis Claims

Industrial dermatitis occurs when the skin is irritated by toxic substances, usually within the workplace. It is sometimes called eczema and is one of the most common skin complaints in the UK.

Irritant Contact Dermatitis

ICD happens when the skin is exposed to one or more harmful substances like acids or soaps. Skin cells become damaged and inflamed and painful skin results. The length of time you have been subjected to the harmful material and how strong that material is will determine how severe the dermatitis is. Certain soaps made to relieve the symptoms of ICD will help to improve the condition.

Allergic contact dermatitis

It is possible that a person can be allergic to a substance which they are in regular contact with at work. Symptoms are progressive, beginning with sometimes no indication of skin damage at all. This can often mean that contact with harmful toxins can go on for a prolonged period of time.

ACD is more difficult to control than ICD and once you have been in contact with the allergen, any more exposure to it in the future will produce an allergic reaction.

Those at risk of industrial dermatitis

Certain chemicals can cause diseases of the skin. These include rubbers, cutting oils, degreasing agents and tar. Depending on where you work, the risk of you acquiring dermatitis will go up or down.

Industries at risk

The workplaces that are most at risk include:

• Hospitals or care homes where detergents and soaps are used regularly.
• Factories where pharmaceutical products are manufactured.
• Construction sites where there is a range of different chemical substances including wet cement, bitumen, asphalt or acrylic sealants.
• Chemicals used in photo laboratories can be harmful to workers.
• Hairdressers who use chemical substances to perm or colour hair. These agents can be highly allergen and toxic.

Am I At Risk Of Industrial Dermatitis?

If you have any of the following symptoms then it could be time to contact your GP to get a diagnosis. If left untreated, it is possible, particularly for ICD, that your condition becomes more long-lasting.

• Irritated skin
• Scabies
• Psoriasis

Your employer’s legal obligation

Legally, your employer must comply with the law on hazardous substances which could lead to dermatitis. They must take all necessary steps in reducing and preventing the risk where possible.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, employers must ensure they adhere to the following under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002.

• Protective clothing and equipment are provided to employees where possible.
• Assessments and monitoring of the exposure of harmful substances must be carried out regularly and documented with exposure being controlled where possible.
• Information and training must be delivered to employees.

HOW MUCH COMPENSATION COULD I CLAIM?

The amount of compensation you could receive will depend on the severity and nature of your injuries. To learn exactly how much compensation you might be entitled to, you should speak to us.

Helping you with your Industrial Dermatitis Claims

To learn more and to discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact our team on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an initial no-obligation telephone consultation with a member of our expert team. 

Where next? Read:

How Much Compensation For Dermatitis