This is a surveillance technique to detect early damage to skin from exposure to oils, latex, soaps, chemicals and solvents at work. Occupational dermatitis affects all industry and business sectors. It is not contagious but the skin can become so damaged that it will affect the employee’s work, health, livelihood, family and social life. Occupational dermatitis mainly affects the hands and forearms that are the areas most likely to be in contact with substances. However, it can occur on the face, neck and chest as a reaction to certain types of dust, liquids and fumes. In the UK, an estimated 66,000 people have skin disease caused by their work resulting in 500,000 working days lost each year. (Health & safety at work December 2004). Occupational dermatitis costs UK employers up to £20 million each year in sickness absence and retraining costs.

offers this health surveillance assessment to help employers meet their obligations under:

- The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH 2002)
- The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations (1999)
- The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations (1992)

• A pre-employment health screen is strongly recommended:
  - To identify those individuals who should not be exposed
  - To establish a base line
  - To advise on health risks and preventative measures
• Discussion of the results will be included, together with advice as required
• The company and the employee will be sent a written report containing the results, advice / concerns, possible health and safety intervention and recommendations for referral to a specialist physician if necessary. The employee’s rights to medical confidentiality will be respected.
• The employer will be advised about the introduction of regular skin checks for employees so that any abnormal signs and symptoms are reported and treated immediately.