Victims of irritant contact dermatitis often consult a doctor or nurse. While some experimental tests can provide an indication of the irritant potential of substances, no single test can reliably identify irritants in specific cases. In the evaluation of occupational irritant contact dermatitis, the best approach is to identify the conditions of exposure by discussing the victim's employment.
Factors peculiar to individual workers are also important. Hereditary factors influence the variety of reactions seen in different persons when exposed to the same irritant. The part of the body that comes in contact with an irritant substance is another factor to remember. The penetration of substances varies over different body regions. For example, some substances penetrate the face and the upper back more quickly than the arms.
In the workplace, irritant contact dermatitis can develop after a short, heavy exposure or a repeated or prolonged, low exposure to a substance. The appearance of irritant contact dermatitis varies considerably according to the conditions of exposure. For example, an accidental contact with a strong irritant causes immediate blisters. Contact with a mild irritant may only produce redness of the skin. However, if the irritation continues, small lesions or sores appear on the reddened area; afterwards crusts and scales form. The skin damage usually heals a few weeks after exposure ends if no complications have arisen (e.g., no infections occurred).
Heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be deadly or debilitating. Other illnesses such as heat cramps and heat rash are painful conditions that can increase a worker’s risk of injury.
Ergodyne has introduced a new custom Chill-Its® Multi-Band program today that will allow customers to express themselves by adding a logo, slogan or creed to everything from a simple pattern to a complete customization.
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has announced a proposed delay in the effective date of the rule entitled Occupational Exposure to Beryllium, from March 21, 2017, to May 20, 2017.
The announcement follows a White House memorandum, entitled "Regulatory Freeze Pending Review," issued Jan. 20, 2017, that directed the department to undertake a review of any new or pending regulations and temporarily postpone the date that they would take effect.
Airport traffic enforcement employees at the Palm Springs (CA) International Airport are concerned because they haven’t received training in handling emergencies or disasters.
Take, for example, workplace violence. A gunman opened fire in the baggage claim area of Fort Lauderdale International Airport, leaving five people dead.
Ergodyne today added new products to its GloWear® Hi-Vis Apparel Line in preparation for summer outdoor work. These new garments provide ANSI-compliant visibility to prevent struck-by accidents and are packed with features to help workers beat the heat.
Ergodyne introduced some notable updates to its Chill-Its® Line of Cooling Products today. Customers can now buy the popular Standard 6602 Evaporative Cooling Towel in bulk packages of 50 and purchase a thinner economy cooling towel at a reduced price.
Follow the briefing live on Twitter at #SilicaBriefing
February 9, 2017
The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA®) will hold a congressional briefing on Capitol Hill Feb. 15 that will focus on OSHA’s silica rule. The event, which will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. ET in room 1540-A in the Longworth House Office Building, will also serve as a case study of the importance of worker health and safety.
