What is occupational dermatitis?

Occupational dermatitis - also known as eczema - is the generic term used to describe skin irritation in the workplace. While dermatitis can be caused simply by constant exposure to sunshine or even water, the most common cause in the workplace is when chemicals or other irritants come into contact with the skin: sometimes leading to urticaria or even skin cancer. The HSE lists some of the most common agents and irritants linked with occupational dermatitis, which includes:

• Alcohol
• Degreasers
• Cutting oils and coolants
• Disinfectants
• Petroleum products
• Cleaning products
• Chemicals

In many cases, occupational dermatitis or other skin conditions could have been be avoided simply by your employer issuing gloves or barrier products. This means that in the majority of such cases, an employer has been negligent.

What are the symptoms of occupational dermatitis?

The NHS website describes the symptoms of contact dermatitis as being when the skin becomes red, inflamed, blistered, dry, thickened and cracked. These symptoms are similar to those of urticaria, which usually looks like a rash of red welts that itch intensely.

In either case, it's wise to get a medical diagnosis in order to ensure prompt treatment and to rule out anything more serious. If your symptoms are caused by irritants at work, you should also consider talking to us about a No Win No Fee compensation claim.

How might my employer have be responsible?

The law says that every employer has a duty of care to protect employees from suffering harm in the workplace. Where your employer failed to foresee the harm that could be caused by your occupation, or to ensure that you were prevented from having skin contact with harmful substances, they could be said to have failed in their duty of care. Talk to a specialist solicitor to find out if your employer failed in their duty of care and read more on the health and safety regulations that govern your safety in the workplace.

Talk to one of our legal experts

Speak to a specialist dermatitis compensation solicitor

Dermatitis claims are quite a specialised area of the law, so it makes sense to deal with solicitors who have extensive experience and a track record of successful dermatitis compensation claims.

We employ specialist dermatitis solicitors who understand the impact that a diagnosis of industrial disease can have on victims and their families, and aim to be as considerate and supportive as possible throughout the claims process.

Contact us on 0330 041 5869 or online here about a dermatitis compensation claim.