Dermatitis in the Dental Industry

Published Date: 6th September 2010

The most common form of skin disease in the dental industry is work-related dermatitis. Dentists and especially dental nurses have been identified as being at greater risk of developing dermatitis compared with the all industry average.

In the UK, there are an estimated 8,400 new cases of work related dermatitis diagnosed each year and the dental industry accounts for a higher than average number of these.

Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin resulting from the use of outside agents. Common symptoms include redness, itching and blistering of the skin.

The condition can affect any member of a dental workforce if they are regularly washing their hands, are exposed to dental work chemicals (such as acrylics and resins) or are exposed to and use personal protective equipment (PPE) gloves.

The most common causes of work related contact dermatitis in the dental industry are rubber chemicals (found in both natural rubber latex and synthetic rubber materials), soaps and wet work (e.g. having wet skin for more than two hours a day or frequent hand washing).

There are various ways in which the risks of work related dermatitis can be reduced. If possible, use machinery and tools as an alternative to using your hands (e.g. equipment used for cleaning machines).

Ensure that when washing hands, all residue is rinsed off and that hands are dried thoroughly afterwards. Use cool/warm water to keep hand temperature down.

Use emollient creams frequently and cover all areas of the hands.

If you notice early signs of skin irritation report it to the relevant person as early detection can prevent more serious dermatitis from developing. Employers need to be complying with CoSHH regulations to protect the health of their workers and should be carrying out CoSHH assessment. Suitable controls should be in effect which manage the risks. These may include:

Using a less hazardous method of working such as use of tools or less hazardous products (e.g. substitute irritant chemicals for milder alternatives).
Supplying hand hygiene products that are effective and reduce the risk of skin disease.

Ensuring that staff are trained in the use of equipment and PPE, and that they are trained to correctly cleanse their skin.

Good washing and hand drying facilities should be accessible to staff.

Emollients should be stored in suitable containers to avoid cross contamination.

It may also be a good idea for employers to have a ‘skin checking’ routine in place to make sure that preventative measures are working.

If you are unsure if your company has an obligation to comply with the CoSHH regulations or you are unsure if any CoSHH hazards exist in your organisation, please call our free confidential H&S helpline or download our free CoSHH information pack. Please read 'What next?' below.

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