Contact dermatitis
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Skin protection measures - barrier creams, protective gloves - and skin care are widely recommended for the prevention of occupational hand dermatitis (HD) in skin risk professions, but there is hardly anything known about uptake levels of the measures. The objective of this controlled intervention study was to quantify the uptake and maintenance of skin protection and skin care measures in first-year bakers' apprentices. A total of 94 first-year bakers' apprentices were included in the study in September 2000. ⋯ The initial level of regular skin care was high in both groups (skin protection group 67.6%, controls 61.7%). After the intervention the acceptance of skin care rose to 88.9% in the skin protection group compared to 68.1% in the controls (4th FU). The present study has shown that skin protection and skin care measures can be introduced successfully in the daily routine of a skin risk occupation and high uptake and maintenance rates can be achieved.
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We review the literature on cement burns of the skin published during the last 4 decades. 51 case reports were analyzed with special regard to common modes of injury, localization of cement exposure, preventive measures taken and treatment. Cement burns are injuries concerning professionals at the workplace as well as amateurs during do-it-yourself work. In 49% of the cases, no attempt to protect the skin had been made. ⋯ Cement burns can be avoided by adequate skin protection. Although acute cement injuries may seem rare, prospective studies should be carried out for correct estimation of prevalence. The need for information on the harmful properties of cement in the occupational as well as the domestic environment is emphasized.