How can skin diseases be prevented?
The following control measures should be taken – the ones at the top of the list are most effective, and should be tried first. As you go down the list, the effectiveness of the control measure decreases. • A safer alternative to the product giving the problems should be sought. For example, paints containing epoxies can be replaced by non-epoxy paints, thereby decreasing the risk of sensitisation. • The work process should be totally or partially enclosed. For example, total or partial enclosures around machines, parts of machines, or conveyer belts can prevent oil mist and oil splashes contaminating workers’ hands and clothing. If it is necessary to see the part being machined, these enclosures can be transparent. Mineral oils are one of the commonest causes of dermatitis. • Some work processes can be automated. For example, using a machine to wash paint trays instead of workers scrubbing the trays with solvents. This will eliminate the problems caused by breathing in solvent vapours
