Skin exposure to chemicals and wet-work in the workplace is imposing a significant burden on national economies. It affects employers, employees, health services and insurance systems.

The book is published by RMS Publishing Limited, in association with the British Occupational Hygiene Society, it provides essential guidance for health and safety managers and officers, safety representatives, occupational hygienists, occupational health nurses and occupational health medical advisers.

Legal advisers on occupational health and safety will find this book useful. Suitable references are provided, as a starting point, for those seeking a greater knowledge.

Summary of key issues covered within this publication:

• The structure and functions of the skin.
• Reasons for establishing a healthy skin policy.
• Guidelines for wet-work.
• Examples of occupations and chemicals that are of concern for irritant and allergic contact dermatitis.
• Examples of chemicals that are of concern for dermal uptake and systemic disease.
• A practical description of dermal exposure pathways.
• A sample letter to manufacturers/suppliers of chemicals to seek up-to-date health and safety information.
• Practical uses of the Tyndall lamp; dermal exposure, surface contamination and biological monitoring.
• A control approach known as 'APC'. APC stands for - Avoid skin contact; Protect the skin and Check for early signs of disease.
• The need to apply the 'principles of good control practice' for adequate dermal exposure control.
• The need to develop adequate safe working distance (SWD) between the contaminant and the skin.
• The importance of information, instruction and training, employee participation and evidence-based practices for benefits realisation.

Author: Dr Rajadurai Sithamparanadarajah OBE JP PhD CChem MRSC MFOH - Health and Safety Executive UK

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