In todays post I will be discussing the most common form of occupational skin disease, Contact Dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is a red, sometimes painful or itchy rash, that is caused by contact between your skin and a hazardous substance. It is often broken down into two separate categories. The first, irritant contact dermatitis is a non-immunologic reaction that develops as inflammation ofof the skin as a result of direct damage to the skin following exposure to a hazardous agent. The second, allergic contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin caused by an immunologic reaction triggered by dermal contact to a skin allergen. The big difference between the two is that allergic contact dermatitis is not confined to the site of contact and may result in systemic responses. While contact dermatitis is not life-threatening or even contagious for that matter, it is still very embarrassing and uncomfortable to the individual affected by it.
Contact Dermatitis can be caused by a wide range of substances depending on an individuals skin sensitivity. Things such as soaps, cosmetics, plants, or fragrances can all trigger outbreaks. Those working in food service, cosmetology, healthcare, agriculture, cleaning, painting, construction, and mechanics are most likely to experience a harmful exposure. Poison ivy and poison oak are probably the most common causes for those who are not exposed to harmful substances in the workplace. Most people are sensitive to the plants oily sap which causes a blistering skin rash. Poison ivy can be hidden in your own back yard without you being aware if you don't know how to spot it. 
Prevention and treatment of dermatitis greatly depends on whether or not the outbreak is acute or chronic in nature. Generally, to completely eliminate and prevent future outbreaks of contact dermatitis you need to identify the source of irritation and avoid exposure to this agent. Things such as rubber gloves can be worn to prevent harmful substances coming in contact with your hands. To treat acute dermatitis things such as wet dressings can be applied to the spot of irritation and steroids and antihistamines can help control the reaction. For chronic dermatitis your only options are really emollients and topical steroids aside from seriously avoiding exposure to harmful agents.
What many people do not know is that nearly 13 million workers are potentially exposed to chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin. Aside from contact dermatitis, dermal exposures can result in a variety of occupational skin diseases and disorders. It is important to spread awareness in the workplace so as to prevent individuals from experiencing this painful and embarrassing disease.
