Regular skin checks may be appropriate where employees remain exposed to substances or work patterns associated with occupational dermatitis.
Skin surveillance can range from trained visual checks to assessment by an occupational-health professional. The level should reflect the hazard, exposure and complexity of the programme.
Surveillance supports early identification, but employers must still prevent or adequately control exposure through substitution, work methods, protective equipment and skin-care arrangements.
Who may need this surveillance?
- Employees working with known skin irritants or sensitisers
- Workers undertaking frequent wet work or repeated hand washing
- Groups identified through the COSHH assessment as needing surveillance
Important: inclusion should be based on the risk assessment and exposure, not job title alone.