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Network Journal 2007 Issue 3 May/June |
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Dermatitis danger
The HSE has issued a circular to inspectors to raise awareness of the growing problem of contact dermatitis in the catering sector.
Dermatitis is one of the main causes of ill health in the sector. The incident rate (the average number of new cases per year) is twice the all industry average. The figures quoted are only the most serious ones that are referred to specialists and the true figure is likely to be significantly higher.
Workers most at risk include cooks, catering assistants, cleaners and bar staff. Bakers and staff who handle fresh meat and other produce are also at risk. Symptoms include redness, itching and blistering of the skin - usually on the arms and hands. In serious cases the skin can crack and bleed. It is extremely painful and may mean that the injured person can no longer work in direct contact with food.
The main causes are wet work, prolonged contact with detergents and handling certain foods and ingredients.
The principle message is that preventing dermatitis does not have to be difficult or expensive. Just follow three simple steps:
- Avoid contact
- Protect the skin
- Check for early signs of dermatitis
The inspectors' circular can be downloaded from www.hse.gov.uk/LAU/lacs/15-2.htm
A short information sheet on dermatitis in the catering industry is also available on www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/fis17.pdf
www.usdaw.org.uk/healthandsafety
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