Skin Risks
Certain industries pose greater risks of harmful skin exposure than others. Some of these include food service, healthcare, cosmetology, agriculture, cleaning, painting, mechanics, printing and construction. However, it is important to be aware of skin health practices in any work environment because The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) estimates that every year, more than 13 million employees are exposed to harmful chemicals that could be absorbed through the skin.Contact dermatitis, also known as eczema, is one of the most common occupational illnesses, with costs of over $1 billion a year. Contact dermatitis is characterized by itching, pain, redness, swelling and blisters. Burns, punctures and abrasions are another common workplace skin injuries. Employers should take every precaution to ensure employees’ skin stays safe from harm.
Prevention
