Skin diseases at work: This is how the MHH protects your health!

Skin diseases at work: This is how the MHH protects your health!

Skin diseases are among the most common work-related diseases in Germany and represent a significant health risk for many employees. According to information from the Hannover Medical School (MHH), eczema, contact allergies and skin cancer are particularly critical. These illnesses can not only lead to the person giving up the profession they have learned, but can also have significant psychosocial consequences and high costs for social security systems. The MHH therefore offers special consultation hours for people with work-related skin diseases in order to provide targeted support to those affected and to improve care. In addition, since the end of 2022, the MHH has been part of the Lower Saxony Institute for Occupational Dermatology (NIB), whose goal is to strengthen research projects and launch new initiatives to prevent skin diseases.

Hand eczema is particularly common and is caused by wet work, the use of protective gloves and contact with disinfectants and contact allergens. Those most affected by these diseases are employees in the healthcare sector, hairdressers, the bakery trade, the cleaning industry and the metal industry. Skin cancer often affects people who work outdoors a lot, such as in construction or gardening. The MHH not only diagnoses and treats these skin diseases, but also supports patients in initiating a dermatological procedure in cooperation with the statutory accident insurance.

Preventive measures and support offers

As part of the dermatologist procedure according to Section 3 of the Occupational Diseases Ordinance (BKV), the aim is to prevent skin diseases from being recognized as occupational diseases. The clinic is working on the further development of the world's largest register of contact allergies, which is part of the Information Network of Dermatological Clinics (IVDK). A project on contact allergies in protective gloves, especially in healthcare, is currently being planned.

According to the DGUV, skin diseases are the most frequently reported illnesses in statutory accident insurance. This is particularly true for sectors such as healthcare services, hairdressing, catering and the metal industry. The most common diseases are inflammatory processes in the hands, which are painful and can become chronic if left untreated. In order for preventative measures to be effective, employers must provide appropriate protective measures, such as skin protection products and protective gloves. This obligation to provide protective measures is anchored in law and is intended to help ensure that employees can stay in their jobs.

Early detection and individual advice

It is crucial that employees consult the company doctor or dermatologist early at the first signs of skin changes. These specialists are responsible for initial consultation and take the necessary steps to support the affected employees. In some cases, prevention strategies are developed that are individually tailored to the respective industry and the specific skin stress. For example, industry-specific skin protection seminars can help raise awareness of skin health.

In order to prevent skin diseases, it is essential that employers carry out risk assessments. These are intended to identify what risks exist for employees. A good example of such measures is TRGS 401, which offers support in selecting personal protective measures. Points such as replacing hazardous materials or using equipment that avoids skin contact are effective risk reduction strategies.

Overall, it can be seen that both the MHH and the DGUV have developed comprehensive measures and programs to protect the health of employees. The close networking between clinical facilities and prevention services forms an important basis in the fight against work-related skin diseases.