Acquiring Contact Dermatitis at Work & the Risk of Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs

While many skin disorders are linked to hereditary complications, or complications associated with fungal or bacterial infection, there are those that are acquired due to irritant exposure. For individuals who work in particular professions, there is an increased risk for irritant contact dermatitis in direct relation to that exposure.

In most cases of occupational exposure and contact dermatitis, the risk is greatest along the hands and can even impair an employee's ability to work. While most cases of contact dermatitis can be resolved with limited toxic exposure and medical treatment, there are some employees who acquire significant complications that may impair their ability to work in any profession.

If you suffer from contact dermatitis related to your occupation, you are not alone. Working in environments with high levels of water or liquid exposure, environments where the use of occlusive work gloves are required, or environments where you are handling very aggressive surface disinfectants, you may be at a greater risk. If there are ways in which your employer can assist with alleviating these types of risks, your complications with contact dermatitis, of the hands, can be reduced and you may be able to continue your employment.

Many employers, today, are utilizing measures in which to prevent contact dermatitis from becoming a health risk in their employees. Employers may strongly encourage hand washing and disinfection with alcohol-based hand rubs. Unfortunately, because alcohol-based hand rubs may disturb hands that are already disturbed, this may only further complicate the contact dermatitis that is beginning to develop. If you experience burning of the hands with the use of the alcohol-based product, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.