SKIN CARE

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SAFETY TALK 

SKIN CARE

The Employment Medical Advisory Service in conjunction with the Health and Safety Management have issued information on skin care as this is the most common occupational health problem

The following advice may prevent you becoming affected. "SAVE YOUR SKIN".

Occupational contact dermatitis is a rash caused by substances used at work. It can look like some common rashes not connected with work. Some people are more likely to get it than others are but it is not catching. It most commonly affects the hands, forearms, and legs.

When it is caused by dust, mist or fumes you may get it on the face, neck, or chest. SOME COMMON CAUSES:

• Pitch, tar, and bitumen. 
• Brick, stone, plaster, and dust. Cement, Paints, 
• varnishes, lacquers, and stains
• Certain woods. Acrylic and formaldehyde resins. 
• Organic solvents, Acids. Ionizing Radiations 
• Certain epoxy resins, Chromates (in primer paint, cement)
• Petrol, white spirit and thinners, Alkalis

Some substances take weeks, months or even years to cause dermatitis. This is because the skin becomes allergic to them.This type of dermatitis may also cause swelling of the eyes and lips.

SOME SUBSTANCES THAT CAN CAUSE ALLERGIC CONTACT DERMATITIS ARE:-

• Chrome and nickel compounds.
• Some woods and plants.
• Some resins, glues and hardeners.
• Some chemicals.

LOOK FOR WARNING LABELS ON CONTAINERS

IF YOU WORK WITH SUBSTANCES THAT CAN CAUSE DERMATITIS:-

• Avoid skin contact with the substance Wear protective clothing, such as gloves
• Keep your skin clean and use after wash cream Keep your workplace clean
• Get first aid treatment for all cuts and grazes and keep them covered Do not use oils to clean your skin
• Do not use synthetic resins or glue hardener on your skin
• Avoid work with irritant or allergic substances if you suffer from eczema or allergic rashes Keep an eye on your skin.
• If you notice a rash tell your Supervisor or visit doctor AT ONCE
• WORKING IN THE SUN – keep your skin covered at all times, or apply a high factor sun cream.