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Skin diseases and injuries are the most common job-related medical problems. Workers of all ages and, in almost all jobs, can have skin problems. One type of skin problem is infection.
You are more likely to have a skin problem if you work in certain jobs. Higher-risk industries include: Manufacturing, food production, construction, machine tool operation, printing, metal plating, leather processing, engine service, landscaping, farming, or forestry.
Materials that can hurt your skin
Certain substances can cause skin problems, including:
- Wet cement
- Some cement dusts
- Lime
- Metalworking fluids
- Some paints
- Adhesives
- Epoxy resins
- Alcohols
- Toluene
- Turpentine
Here are some things you can do to protect your skin:
- Wear gloves, aprons, and other clothing to protect your skin from oils, greases, and chemicals.
- Wear clean clothes to work. After work, take off clothes that came into contact with oil or chemicals.
- Don’t use gasoline, kerosene, or mineral spirits to clean your hands.
- After washing your hands, use petroleum jelly, a lotion, or a cream to protect your skin.
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in your work area. Doing so can bring chemicals in close contact with your skin.
- If you work outdoors, use sunscreen several times a day. Wear sunglasses, a hat, and a long-sleeved shirt or jacket to protect your skin from sunburn.
If you have a skin problem that won’t go away, see a doctor. Tell him or her what materials you use at work.
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