Wet-work Exposure: A Main Risk Factor for Occupational Hand Dermatitis

Abstract

Wet-work can be defined as activities where workers have to immerse their hands in liquids for >2 hours per shift, or wear waterproof (occlusive) gloves for a corresponding amount of time, or wash their hands >20 times per shift. This review considers the recent literature on wet-work exposure, and examines wet-work as a main risk factor for developing irritant contact dermatitis of the hands. The aim of this paper is to provide a detailed description of wet-work exposure among specific occupational groups who extensively deal with water and other liquids in their occupations. Furthermore, it highlights the extent and importance of the subsequent adverse health effects caused by exposure to wet-work.

Prevalence and risk factors of contact dermatitis among clothing manufacturing employees in Beijing

“…It was found that ironing workers are repeatedly exposed to hot and humid conditions, which cause and aggravate dermatitis. [29] …”

Evaluation of eye and respiratory symptoms among employees at an indoor waterpark resort.

“…These areas are more frequently exposed to possible occupational skin irritants in the water such as chlorine compounds and disinfection byproducts. Chronic exposure to water has been associated with contact dermatitis among workers who perform "wet work" [Behroozy and Keegel 2014;Meding 2016]. Lifeguards rotate through stations where they might be immersed in water up to thigh level.…”

The GARD platform for potency assessment of skin sensitizing chemicals_suppl

“…Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), a type IV hypersensitivity reaction, is common among certain occupational groups such as those regularly exposed to chemicals or involved in wet work (Behroozy and Keegel, 2014). However, also cosmetics and household products can contain numerous skin sensitizing chemicals.…”