Work related dermatitis is more common in certain industries including healthcare, hairdressing, dentistry, food processing, cleaning, printing, engineering, agriculture etc. However dermatitis can occur in just about any place of work. Contact dermatitis is caused by things that dry out and damage the skin. Such things include solvents, oils etc. Frequent and prolonged contact with water could also cause dermatitis.
In terms of the law, dermatitis can be classed as an industrial disease which you can claim compensation for. Such disease claims are run under the terms of the Pre-Action Protocol for Disease and Illness Claims.
The most common and noticeable symptom of dermatitis is red and itchy skin. As the skin gets worse it can become swollen, flaky, blistered and cracked. Sufferers have described that this can be painful and irritating.
The symptoms of contact dermatitis can be effectively managed or cleared up all together with treatment. Treatment can include simply avoiding the cause or the irritant and using emollients which is a bit like a moisturising cream. There are also tropical treatments to apply to the skin and tablets to take orally.
There are many procedures that your employer could and should undertake to protect you from the risks of an occupational disease such as contact dermatitis. For example avoiding contact with potential irritants and by providing appropriate protective equipment such as gloves etc.
If you have developed contact dermatitis due to your employment then you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation. It is imperative that you seek legal advice as soon as possible to see if you are entitled to make a claim. The time limits for bringing a claim of this type differ, so it is important that you do not delay in seeking advice.
We are a team of expert personal injury lawyers dealing solely with personal injury claims. We would be happy to take your call today to discuss your claim.