UK OCCUPATIONAL SKIN DISEASE ADVICE

An occupational skin disease (OSD) is any skin disorder which is caused by a person's work. These conditions are the result of exposure to a physical, chemical or biological hazard and can be classified into several types:

• contact dermatitis (irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis)
• urticaria
• follicle abnormalities
• skin infections
• pigment disorders
• neoplasms (cancers)

Occupational skin disease affects workers in a wide variety of industries. Those at highest risk include:

• manufacturing (especially rubber, chemicals, base metals, soaps, detergents)
• oil and gas extraction
• hairdressing
• food production
• construction
• machine tool operation (grinding machine setters and operators)
• printers
• metal plating
• engine service
• leather work
• forestry

Most occupational skin disease can be prevented. The following issues should be considered:

• Predisposing factors that contribute to work-related skin disease on a particular job. For example, fair skin would be a predisposing factor in a worker who is frequently exposed to sunlight.
• Avoidance of certain work environments by workers with pre-existing skin disease.
• Preventive measures on the job. For example, use of gloves, aprons, and other protective clothing.

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994 and The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992, require employers to assess the risks to any employees that may be exposed to a substance hazardous to health that may cause a disease of the skin.

The law requires that your employer provide and maintain a working environment that is safe to your health. If your employer has failed in their duty of care, then you may be entitled to compensation. If you suffer from an occupational skin disease which is the result of your employer failing to take adequate care to protect you from such injury, then we can help you to get the compensation you deserve.

The amount of compensation that you will be entitled to will depend upon the extent of your injuries and disabilities. You may be compensated for loss of earnings if you are unable to work. Damages are also awarded for pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life as a result of your illness. You are also entitled to be awarded the cost of any medical, treatment and pharmaceutical expenses incurred by you in respect of treatment for your occupational skin disease. Compensation may include damages for loss of earnings, pain and suffering, medical, pharmaceutical and treatment expenses.

Here are 3 good reasons to choose our lawyers:

1. Our lawyers will provide you with legal advice on your rights and entitlements to compensation with no further obligation.
2. Our solicitors are specialist accredited expert members of the Law Society personal injury panel with extensive experience in negotiating, settling and litigating accident compensation claims.
3. If you decide to instruct any of our specialists to obtain compensation for you, they will act on a “no win no fee” basis. Compensation is paid in full and win or lose there is no charge.¹