Common hazards to skin - Skin - Healthy Working Lives

As an employer you have a duty of care to protect your employees and yourself from workplace hazards. Employees also have a responsibility to protect themselves and others.

If not managed correctly, skin irritation problems can have a considerable impact on employees and organisations.

Use the links below to find information on common hazards to skin and precautions.

1. Common hazards to skin

Employees are at risk if they are in contact with substances that are

corrosive
irritating
harmful
sensitising
toxic or very toxic.

These can cause skin problems at the site of skin contact, for example arms or legs. They can also transfer from hands to other parts of the body, including eyes or mouth.

Working conditions that can lead to skin problems include

very hot or cold water temperatures
not using hand washing products or barrier creams
excessive hand washing or not drying them fully
wet work – where hands are wet or in water for prolonged periods of time
exposure to the sun or ultra violet rays without effective application of adequate sunscreen.

Skin problems can also occur through exposure to

deposits such as dust
emissions, for example fumes
splashes when pouring or mixing liquids
contamination of surfaces or materials, for example clothing or work equipment.

Carry out a risk assessment

If hazards to skin cannot be avoided, then best way to find out about the risks in your organisation, and how to address these, is by discussing issues with staff and carrying out a risk assessment.

Find out how to carry out a risk assessment