Sector: food industry

Type of hazard: hazardous substances

Catchwords: occupational disease, quality assurance, protective measure

Status: completed 12/1997

Financed by: Berufsgenossenschaft Nahrungsmittel und Gaststätten

Research institution(s): Forschungsgesellschaft für angewandte Systemsicherheit und Arbeitsmedizin, Mannheim

Description, key words:

Means of skin protection are effective when (measures and means) accepted by workers

Aims:

In 1993 the most frequent occupational illnesses in the food industry were skin diseases, the number of cases amounting to approximately 2500. Goal: the type of skin diseases, pathogenic conditions (harmful substances, allergens) and internal works prevention of illnesses should be investigated in an interdisciplinary research project.

Activities/methods:

Detailed occupational medical and psychological investigations carried out on a test group A (first report) and a test group B (persons with and without skin diseases) using a completely standardised questionnaire, if necessary specialist medical investigation in a dermatology clinic, advice regarding measures designed to protect health; individual follow-up advice; double blind acceptance trial with five skin protection and skin care agents

Results:

Decisive influential factors are the readiness to implement skin protection measures and acceptance of the product offered. Motivation is determined by personal assessment of the risk to skin and individual competence, the major factor in reducing acceptance is the unpleasant smell of fat components.

last update: 22.08.2000