[Allergens and harmful factors in the light of occupational dermatitis registration in Poland in 1978]

786 occupational dermatoses notification in Poland have been analysed. The significance of the compounds of chromium, cobalt, oils, lubricants, cement, epidians and epoxy resins in the pathogenesis of occupational dermatoses has been presented. The recommended "set of 5 allergens" is sufficient to explain the cause of about half of the diseases. Epidemiological data on occupational dermatoses confirm the advisability of adopting the author's criteria of handling occupational dermatoses and considering the possibilities of certain technological improvements.