The use and control of substances in Irish industry which are classified as

Abstract

Information relating to the extent of the use of substances in Irish Industry which are classified as ‘skin sensitisers’ is difficult to obtain, as details regarding the volume of these substances imported into Ireland on an annual basis is not available. Occupational skin diseases are the most frequently encountered occupational disease. Despite the fact that occupational skin disease often parallels the level of hygiene practiced by employers, occupational skin disease is largely preventable. For technical reasons there are still no skin exposure limits to guide employers, nor techniques to measure skin exposure levels. Currently the use of substances which have the potential to cause skin sensitisation are widely used in Irish industry. There is a requirement to develop a structured approach to the management of operations where there is the likelihood of worker exposure to an agent, which has the potential to cause skin disease. Risk assessments are necessary procedures for the evaluation of working conditions and the potential for damage to the health of the employees from their specific tasks. When proper skin management procedures are in place the hazards of a substance can be identified and adequate control measures be implemented before a substance enters the work area.