1. Occupational Dermatoses
…a discussion of the nature and extent of skin diseases related to occupational exposure

2. Extent of the Problem
The skin is the largest organ, first exposed, and vulnerable to attack.
Dermatological conditions are the 2nd most common cause of all occupational diseases.
Decline in past 20 years due to automation, enclosure, education
Lack of control is costly.

3. Layers of the Skin
Epidermis
Dermis
Subcutaneous Layer

4. Functions of the Healthy Skin
Physical protection
Water barrier
Temperature control
Sensory reception
Excretion
UV protection
Other general protective measures

5. Predisposing Factors Determining Skin Response
Type of skin
Age
Gender
Perspiration rate
Previous skin diseases
Allergies
Personal hygiene

6. A square centimeter of skin contains...
2,000,000 cells
A yard of blood vessels
3000 sensory cells
200 nerve endings (pain)
2 sensory apparatuses heat/cold
100 sweat/15 sebaceous glands
10 hair follicles

7. Definitions
Dermatosis - Any cutaneous abnormality. It encompasses folliculitis, acne, pigmentary changes, nodules, tumors, eczema
Occupational dermatoses – resulting or aggravated from work environment
Dermatitis – Inflammation of the skin from any cause (becomes itchy, may develop blisters, etc.)

8. Causes of Occupational Skin Diseases
Mechanical
Physical
Biological
Chemical
Botanical

9. Most Hazardous Industries/Processes
Use of cutting oils and coolants in machine tool operations
Plastics manufacturing
Rubber manufacturing
Food processing
Leather tanning and refinishing
Agriculture
Metal plating and cleaning
Construction
Printing
Forest products manufacturing

10. Chemically-Induced Dermatitis
Primary irritants
Sensitizers
Photosensitizers

11. Chemicals Causing Dermatoses
Acids
Alkalis
Metals/salts
Solvents
Dyes
Insecticides
Coolants and lubricants
Others