Skin at Work: Health & Safety Guidance
Protecting skin in the workplace is a vital part of health and safety. Exposure to hazardous substances, extreme temperatures, or prolonged wet conditions can lead to occupational skin diseases such as dermatitis, burns, or infections. Employers have a legal duty to prevent skin damage by assessing risks, implementing control measures, and providing guidance to employees.
Common Occupational Skin Risks
Workers can be exposed to a range of hazards that affect the skin, including:
- Chemicals, solvents, and detergents
- Prolonged contact with water or wet work
- Extreme temperatures (hot or cold environments)
- Friction, cuts, and abrasions from machinery or tools
- Biological agents such as bacteria or fungi
Legal Responsibilities
Under UK health and safety legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH), employers must:
- Identify skin hazards in the workplace.
- Assess risks and determine necessary control measures.
- Provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves or barrier creams.
- Offer information, instruction, and training to employees about skin protection.
- Monitor employee health and take action to prevent occupational skin disease.
Prevention and Control Measures
Key strategies to prevent skin damage at work include:
- Substituting hazardous substances with safer alternatives where possible.
- Using gloves, protective clothing, and barrier creams.
- Implementing proper hygiene practices, including regular hand-washing and skin care.
- Reducing exposure time to irritants and hazardous substances.
- Providing safe storage and labelling of chemicals.
Monitoring and Reporting
Employers should regularly monitor workplace conditions and encourage employees to report early signs of skin problems. Early intervention can prevent serious conditions and long-term illness. Records of reported skin conditions, risk assessments, and control measures should be maintained.
Training and Awareness
Workers should be trained to:
- Recognise common workplace skin hazards.
- Use PPE correctly and maintain skin hygiene.
- Understand the importance of reporting symptoms early.
- Follow workplace procedures for handling hazardous substances safely.
Recommended Training Courses
Implementing proper skin protection measures helps prevent occupational skin diseases, ensures employee well-being, and maintains compliance with UK health and safety regulations.