We are personal injury solicitors specialising in claiming compensation for dermatitis contracted at work. Catherine Smith introduces our no win no service that covers dermatitis claims in this video.

Read more about the causes of dermatitis at work below, or use our free legal advice service to ask us; can I claim compensation if I caught dermatitis at work?

Claiming Compensation For Dermatitis

Dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition, that can be caused or made worse by contact with physical, chemical or biological agents in the workplace. Dermatitis is the most common work related disease in the UK today. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reports that annually between 2008 and 2010, around 40,000 workers developed skin diseases caused by factors in the workplace, the majority of which were cases of dermatitis. It an employer's responsibility to protect workers from exposure to agents which may cause or worsen dermatitis conditions. Where they have failed in this regard, it is often possible for workers to claim personal injury compensation.

Types And Symptoms Of Dermatitis

There are two main types of occupational or work related dermatitis:

Irritant Contact Dermatitis :- By far the most common form of the disease, normally resulting from prolonged contact with chemical irritants, contained in cleaning products for example, causing cumulative damage to the skin over time.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis :- Rarer than the irritant form of the disease, due to the fact that a hypersensitivity to a substance that comes into contact with the skin must pre-exist. The sensitising agent acts as a trigger for the allergic reaction to occur.

What Causes Work Related Dermatitis & Who Is Affected?

The highest incidence rates of dermatitis are found in professions that require prolonged work with various agents which cause the disease. Florists and hairdressers are highlighted by the HSE as being particularly at risk. Workers in a broad range of professions are at risk of contracting the disease, including engineers, construction workers, caterers, cleaners, beauticians, health workers, farmers, painters and dentists. Irritants include dust, solvents, acids, alkalis, detergents, water and animal hair, while sensitising agents include chrome, nickel, rubber, adhesives and chemicals in hair and beauty products.

Find Out More About: Dermatitis Among Hairdressers

The Benefits Of Using A Firm Of No Win No Fee Solicitors

The Effects Of Dermatitis

The symptoms of occupational dermatitis include rough and raw skin, that becomes itchy and inflamed. Affected areas of skin may become excessively dry, cracked, blistered and painful. While it can affect any part of the body, dermatitis normally manifests itself on the hands, wrists and forearms. The severity of the condition depends on individual skin sensitivity factors and the level of exposure to the particular irritant or sensitiser. Dermatitis is not contagious, though the condition can spread to the entire body, and be difficult to treat. In severe cases of allergic contact dermatitis, a systemic reaction may spread to the body's internal organs, potentially resulting in kidney or liver failure.

Dermatitis Compensation

Employers must take all reasonable measures to reduce the risk of workers contracting dermatitis at work. Where prevention from exposure is not possible, the employer must provide suitable personal protective equipment such as overalls, masks, gloves and boots. A successful dermatitis claim will require a clinical diagnosis of dermatitis, and evidence that the disease has been caused by irritant or sensitising agents in the workplace. Damages following a successful dermatitis claim will reflect a range of factors, including pain and suffering, the cost of medical treatment and loss of earnings due to time off work.

Read Case Study: Construction Worker Caught Dermatitis From Mixing Cement

Bartletts Solicitors have been protecting and supporting clients for 150 years and enjoy a reputation nationwide for trusted legal advice. We are specialists in work related dermatitis compensation claims having successfully represented injured employees across a range of industries. Call us today on 0800 158 2454 for a free consultation regarding your case or to begin a claim. You can also contact us for free legal advice via our new Live Chat function.