What is contact dermatitis?
[Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) — caused by repeated exposure to irritants damaging the skin barrier: soaps, detergents, wet work, solvents; Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) — immune sensitisation to a specific allergen: latex, epoxy resins, chromate in cement, nickel, hairdressing chemicals; distinction matters for valuation and causation]
What causes occupational contact dermatitis?
[Healthcare: latex gloves, antiseptic washes, wet work; hairdressing: peroxide, bleach, dyes, wet work; cleaning: detergents, bleach; catering: wet work, detergents, food acids; construction: cement (chromate), epoxy resins; metalworking: cutting fluids]
What does COSHH 2002 require about skin exposure?
[Assess skin exposure hazards; substitute where possible; provide engineering controls (gloves, creams, washing facilities); health surveillance where sensitisation possible; inform and train workers; keep records]
How is a contact dermatitis claim valued?
[JCG does not have a single dermatitis chapter; typically falls under "skin disease" or the body part affected; relevant ranges: Severe dermatitis affecting both hands, affecting employment: potentially £13,000 to £29,000 Moderate dermatitis, some employment impact: £7,000 to £13,000 Minor, fully resolved after treatment: £2,000 to £6,000 Psychiatric element where significant impact on quality of life]
What is the date of knowledge for a contact dermatitis claim?
[Gradual onset; time limit from when claimant knew condition was significant, caused by work, and employer responsible; often around formal occupational health or dermatologist diagnosis]
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers ask about this topic
Can I claim for hand dermatitis caused by cleaning chemicals at work?
Yes, if your employer failed to provide adequate PPE (gloves), failed to carry out a COSHH assessment, or failed to reduce your exposure to detergents and wet work.
Can I claim for a latex allergy developed at work?
Yes. Latex allergy is a recognised occupational allergy. Healthcare employers in particular have a duty to use non-powdered, low-allergen gloves and to switch to latex-free alternatives where sensitisation is identified.
What if dermatitis has prevented me from returning to my career?
Sensitisation to a workplace allergen — particularly in hairdressing or healthcare — can prevent a return to the same role. Loss of earnings including the cost of retraining for a different career is recoverable.
Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.
Your enquiry goes directly to Edward & Amaury Solicitors (SRA 800525). No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.
01228 272395Where did the accident happen?
Pick the setting closest to your situation.
Sources
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002
- PPE at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended 2022)
- HSE — Skin at work (hse.gov.uk/skin)
- Judicial College Guidelines, 17th edition (2024)
This guide is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.