Allergic dermatitis due to a triacrylate in ultraviolet cured inks

Investigation of a dermatitis incident involving the handling of UV type inks by press minders is described. Patch tests pinpointed one acrylic component of the UV ink (pentaerythritol triacrylate) as the causal sensitizer. Factors influencing the identification and incidence of sensitization to the same chemical in different work situations are discussed as are lessons in terms of prevention under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.