PREVALENCE OF OCCUPATIONAL SKIN DISORDERS AMONG WORKERS IN SUEZ CANAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Abstract

The effects of the work environment on the skin are rarely life threatening. However, they can cause much morbidity and suffering to the workers, and are a significant cause of decreased productivity and sickness absence in industry.

Few workplaces are as complex as the hospital. Not only does it provide basic health care needs for a large number of people, but it is often a teaching and research center as well. HCP are exposed to a variety of cutaneous irritants and allergens, and have a high prevalence of cutaneous problems. Excessive hand-washing, mechanical irritation from scrubbing, use of germicides and wearing of gloves can result in irritant and allergic dermatitis which result in increased risk ofinfection.