Skin health problems commonly affect workers in many sectors. These include motor vehicle repair, dentistry, health services and construction.

In the construction industry there are a number of substances that cause skin problems. Wet cement, acrylic sealants, petrol, diesel and degreasers are common examples. Potentially, all construction workers are at risk from skin health problems. Road builders, bricklayers, roofers and painters are known to be high risk groups.

Employers and employees need to comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002. They require employers to provide health surveillance in appropriate cases.

Skin surveillance is a process to identify, as early as possible, any potential skin problems which are due to exposure in the workplace.
Skin surveillance assessments are usually questionnaire based. A report is provided for each assessment and appropriate recommendations are made.