Dermatoses acquired by solid-waste handlers.
A clinical evaluation of the skin changes and injuries among refuse (waste) collectors in San Francisco was conducted in 1983. Almost 75% had palmar calluses--a result of repeated pressure and friction. Those workers who protected their hands with gloves had practically normal skin, with minor or absent calluses. The majority of waste collectors sustained work-related injuries each year. These consisted mainly of sprains, abrasions and lacerations, fractures, and eye injuries. Based on the injury rate, waste collection is a hazardous occupation. The skin is invariably traumatized.
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D002140:California; D002145:Callosities / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D011481:Protective Clothing; D012037:Refuse Disposal; D012867:Skin / Q000293:injuries*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000209:etiology*