Occupational hand dermatitis among cement workers in Taiwan

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Dermatology
• Allergology

Background:

• Occupational dermatitis is a significant health concern for cement workers.
• Irritant and allergic cement contact dermatitis are primary occupational hazards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the severity of occupational cement contact dermatitis in Taiwan.
• To identify common allergens responsible for cement contact dermatitis among workers.

Main Methods:

• 97 cement workers participated, providing demographic and work activity data via questionnaire.
• Dermatological examination and patch testing with 25 standard allergens were performed.
• Skin manifestations and allergic reactions were systematically evaluated.

Main Results:

• 65% of workers had occupational cement hand contact dermatitis, primarily affecting the hands.
• Common skin issues included dorsal hand thickening and palm hyperkeratosis.
• Patch testing revealed allergies to potassium dichromate (24%), thiuram mix (9%), fragrance mix (9%), and cobalt chloride (7%).

Conclusions:

• Occupational cement hand dermatitis is a severe issue in Taiwan.
• Potassium dichromate, thiuram mix, fragrance mix, and cobalt chloride are key allergens.
• High chromium hypersensitivity rates necessitate regulating ferrous sulfate in cement.