Hand dermatoses and contact allergic reactions in construction workers exposed to epoxy resins.
In 23/135 (18%) workers exposed to epoxy resins, a work-related dermatosis on the hands and/or forearms had been present during the past 3 years. In 9 persons, the occupational dermatosis was still present at the time of investigation. In all workers, patch tests were performed with epoxy resin, isophoronediamine, triethylenetetramine and xylenediamine. Positive patch tests were observed in 27 of the 135 exposed workers (20%) 13 of whom had never previously experienced skin problems. Epoxy resin accounted for the majority of the positive reactions. There was no relation between a history of atopy and the development of contact allergy. Only half of all workers had received any safety instructions. The wearing of gloves (mostly cotton), intended to protect the skin, had an adverse effect.
D003252:Construction Materials / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000517:prevention & control; D004853:Epoxy Resins / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006229:Hand Dermatoses / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010328:Patch Tests
D004853:Epoxy Resins