What is Dermatitis?

Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin which is caused by coming into contact with skin irritants or skin sensitisers.

There are three main types of contact Dermatitis:

1. Irritant Contact Dermatitis
2. Allergic Contact Dermatitis
3. Contact Urticara.

What are the causes of Dermatitis?

The industries in which work-related Dermatitis is most common include:

• healthcare workers
• food processing/catering
• cleaning
• printing
• engineering
• agriculture.

However, Dermatitis can occur in just about any workplace.

Irritant Contact Dermatitis is caused by things that dry out and damage the skin, such as solvents, detergents, oils and prolonged or frequent contact with water.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis can occur if you develop an allergy to something that comes into contact with your skin. Such substances include chemicals and cement, hair products, epoxy resins and some food stuffs.

Contact Urticara is caused by things like plants, foods and natural rubber latex gloves.

What are the symptoms of Dermatitis?

Red and itchy skin is the usual symptom of Dermatitis. As the condition worsens, the skin can become swollen, flaky, blistered and cracked. This can be very irritating and painful.

The treatment you receive will be dependent upon the particular cause of your condition. Creams, wet compresses and avoiding the substances causing your condition are included in most treatment plans. Occasionally, antihistamines are used to reduce itching.

What should I do if I think I have Dermatitis?

If you have recently contracted Dermatitis after coming into contact with chemicals or substances at work or if you already suffered from dermatitis but your symptoms have been aggravated by exposure to substances in the workplace you should seek both medical and legal advice as soon as possible.

Can I make a Dermatitis compensation claim?

Yes – Compensation claims for Dermatitis are awarded to reflect the nature and severity of the illness you have. The courts will award money for the pain and suffering the illness has caused you and your claim for compensation will be based on this for all industrial diseases.

Call us on 0800 0384 384 for a free meeting with one of our expert Industrial Illness Solicitors who will talk with you about your condition and inform you if you can make a claim.