It's In Your Hands: Preventing Work-Related Skin Disease

It's In Your Hands: Preventing Work-Related Skin Disease

Work-related skin disease causes real harm. Many people live with pain and discomfort. Some have had to give up work altogether. It also costs millions of pounds in compensation every year.

The good news is that most cases can be prevented. A sensible, positive approach to health and safety protects your people and your business.

It's In Your Hands was launched in 2006 by the HSE, the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), Safety Groups UK, BOHS, the Institute of Occupational Medicine and the TUC. HSE statistics show work-related dermatitis has been falling since. The campaign guide has now been updated for 2026.

As a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier, we have pulled together its key advice for employers and employees.

Who is most at risk?

If you answer yes to any of these, your workforce may face a higher risk of skin disease.

  • Do you use chemicals with hazard warnings, such as irritant, corrosive, harmful or toxic?
  • Do hands touch hazardous substances daily, such as adhesives, paints, inks, solvents, dyes or shampoo?
  • Do hands touch mineral oils, such as engine oils, lubricants, cutting fluids or greases?
  • Are hands wet for more than 2 hours a day, or more than 20 times a day? This is known as wet working.
  • Do workers handle plants, flowers or animal products?
  • Do they touch other natural substances, such as food, wood dust or latex?
  • Is there a risk of skin abrasion?
  • Are workers out in the sun during the day?
  • Does anyone have a pre-existing skin condition or allergy?
  • Do people work in the cold, outdoors in winter or in cold storage?

How skin comes into contact with hazards

Chemical agents reach the skin in three main ways:

  • Direct contact, through splashes and touching
  • Contaminated surfaces, such as worktops, tools, coveralls and gloves
  • Airborne substances that settle on the skin

Hands and faces are most exposed, but covered skin is at risk too. Never keep contaminated cloths in pockets. Always wash dirty hands before and after using the toilet.

Work-related dermatitis

Dermatitis accounts for over 70% of work-related skin disease. It is mainly caused by chemical agents and wet work, where hands are wet for long periods during the day.

Other causes include biological agents such as plants and bacteria, physical agents such as vibration and radiation, and mechanical damage such as abrasion. Hands are most at risk, but any part of the body can be affected.

There are two main types:

Allergic contact dermatitis happens when a substance sensitises the skin, triggering an allergic reaction.

Allergic contact dermatitis happens when a substance sensitises the skin, triggering an allergic reaction.

Irritant contact dermatitis happens when a substance or repeated wet work damages the skin directly.

How to recognise dermatitis

Look out for:

  • Redness or swelling of the hands and fingers
  • Cracked skin
  • Blisters
  • Flaking or scaling
  • Itching with cracks

Has anyone had these symptoms more than once in the last 12 months? Did their skin improve during time off work? If so, work could be the cause.

Only a medical professional can diagnose work-related dermatitis. Trained safety reps and supervisors play a valuable part in spotting it early.

Your legal obligations

Several regulations apply to skin health at work.

Regulation What it requires
COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Identify hazardous substances, assess exposure and health risks, and put controls in place. Until this is done, employees may not work with the substances
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations Carry out risk assessments and introduce procedures to remove or minimise risks
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations Provide suitable washing facilities

Employers must also consult employees and their representatives on health and safety, including when skin exposure cannot reasonably be prevented. Employees must co-operate to meet these duties.

What counts as a hazardous substance?

Here, it means any substance, or wet work, that can damage the skin. They fall into four groups:

  • Those that irritate the skin, causing irritant contact dermatitis
  • Those that sensitise the skin, causing allergic contact dermatitis
  • Those that cause other skin diseases, such as skin cancer or loss of skin colour
  • Those with other effects, such as burns

Some substances pass through the skin and cause illness elsewhere in the body. Very hot, cold, dry or wet working conditions can also cause serious skin problems.

How to recognise hazardous substances

Under CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) rules, suppliers must label hazardous products and give professional users a Safety Data Sheet. Always read the label and the data sheet before using a chemical.

The red diamond pictograms on the bottom row are the current CLP symbols. You may still see the older orange squares on some stock.

Consumer products, such as those used in hairdressing, may not carry warning signs but can still be hazardous. If in doubt, ask your supplier.

Preventing dermatitis in the workplace

There is a legal duty to prevent work-related dermatitis by keeping skin contact with hazardous substances to a minimum. That means a safe system of work: safe handling methods, training, suitable PPE, skin cleansers and creams, and proper washing facilities. Regular skin checks can show whether your controls are working.

Do not:

  • Put hands in chemicals, or allow prolonged or repeated contact with water
  • Work in a way that causes chemical splashes
  • Let skin touch contaminated work pieces, surfaces, tools or clothing

Do:

  • Know the health risks of every chemical on site, and make sure labels are clear, read and understood
  • Use tools and methods that keep hands away from hazardous substances
  • Wear suitable protective gloves where needed
  • Wash and dry hands regularly, including before putting gloves on and after taking them off
  • Use pre-work and after-work creams to keep skin in good condition. Pre-work creams do not replace gloves
  • Get medical advice if there are concerns about skin condition

On average, a reported case of dermatitis costs an employer £6,000 (Diepgen et al, Contact Dermatitis, 2013).

Safe working distance

When hands are used as tools, they often end up in chemicals or water. That leaves no safe working distance (SWD). Tongs, a wire basket or long-handled tools can put space between hands and hazards.

Work through these steps in order.

Avoid skin contact:

  1. Eliminate. Remove the hazardous substance or wet work, for example by using a different process.
  2. Substitute. Use less harmful substances.
  3. Engineer it out. Use automated handling, full enclosure, local exhaust ventilation or tools that increase the SWD.
  4. Change the process. Set good working practices that prevent or minimise hand contact.

Protect the skin. Where the steps above cannot give adequate control, provide suitable PPE and skin care products. Remember that wearing gloves for long periods can also raise the risk of dermatitis.

Check. Regular skin checks catch dermatitis early, before it becomes serious. They also show gaps in your controls.

The three-step skin care routine

Skin care products keep skin healthy so it can do its job as a barrier. HSE COSHH guidance recommends pre-work and after-work creams.

Step What it does How to use it
Pre-work cream Makes hands easier to clean after work and may help protect the skin Apply before work. Useful where gloves are not needed, but never a substitute for them
Skin cleanser Removes contaminants from the skin Use the mildest cleanser that does the job. Never use solvents such as white spirit. Rinse well and dry with disposable paper towels
After-work cream Restores moisture and natural oils, reducing the risk of irritant dermatitis Apply at the end of each shift or after washing. Use a non-tainting formula in food areas

Use dispensers rather than tubs to avoid cross contamination, and choose sealed cartridge systems for the best hygiene. Train staff to use each product correctly. The wrong product, or the right one used badly, may not help.

Protective gloves and clothing

"Any gloves will do" is a recipe for dermatitis. By law, gloves must be matched to the substance, the environment, the task and the wearer.

Choose gloves approved to the right EN standard for the job. Most glove manufacturers offer a hand protection assessment, often free of charge. Think about:

  • Protection against the specific hazard
  • Sizing and fit
  • Dexterity, so the task can be done safely
  • Comfort and how long gloves will be worn
  • Material and thickness, and how the substance permeates, penetrates or degrades it

No glove gives 100% or unlimited protection.

Good glove practice:

  • Train staff to put on and remove gloves without contaminating their skin
  • Provide proper storage and disposal
  • Always put gloves on clean hands, and wash hands after taking them off
  • Do not use gloves or clothing for more than a day unless the manufacturer guarantees extended use
  • Never launder gloves or single-use clothing unless the manufacturer guarantees performance after washing
  • Keep reusable gloves and clothing clean

When choosing gloves or protective clothing, involve your workforce. Get expert advice from the chemical supplier, the glove or clothing supplier, or a health and safety professional.

Skin cancer at work

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. At work, it has two main causes:

  • Carcinogens, through prolonged contact with used mineral oils (including engine and some machine oils), coal tars and pitches
  • UV from the sun, for outdoor workers and drivers

The facts

  • Around 173,600 new skin cancer cases and around 2,500 deaths each year in the UK (Cancer Research UK, as cited in the guide)
  • 86% of melanoma skin cancer cases are preventable
  • Construction workers have a skin cancer incidence rate six times higher than the general population
  • Up to 90% of skin cancer deaths could be prevented if UV exposure is controlled (IOSH)

There are two main groups. Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common. Malignant melanoma is rarer, but the most serious and can kill. It is curable if caught early.

Know the ABCDE of melanoma

Check your whole body once a month. See a doctor straight away about any change or unusual mark that lasts more than a few weeks.

  • A = Asymmetry. One half of the mole does not match the other.
  • B = Border. The edges are irregular, ragged or blurred.
  • C = Colour. The colour is uneven throughout.
  • D = Diameter. Wider than 6mm, though it could be smaller.
  • E = Evolving. The mole changes over weeks, months or years.

Also seek advice if a mole becomes itchy, painful, bleeds, crusts or looks inflamed.

Protecting outdoor workers from the sun

HSE guidance treats UV as an occupational hazard for outdoor workers. Sunburn in sunny, shady or even cloudy conditions raises the risk of skin cancer. Those most at risk have very fair skin, a personal or family history of skin cancer, more than 50 moles, or take immunosuppressive drugs.

Include sun exposure in your risk assessment and in routine safety training. The same applies to drivers: most vehicle glass blocks UVB, but not UVA.

Encourage workers to:

  • Shade. Work in the shade where possible, and remember protection is still needed there.
  • Cover up. Keep tops on. Wear a broad-brimmed hat that covers the ears and neck, and UV-protective sunglasses.
  • Protect. Apply SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, from Easter to at least the end of August, and on warm September days too. Apply to clean, dry skin 15 to 20 minutes before going out, again once outside, then every 2 to 3 hours. Reapply more often when sweating.
  • Hydrate. Drink plenty of water.
  • Check. Look for unusual moles, spots or skin changes, and get medical advice.

Choosing a professional sunscreen

Clothing and hats give the best protection. Sunscreen covers the parts that are hard to cover up, and should protect against both UVA and UVB.

  • SPF shows protection mainly against UVB. SPF 30 is the recommended minimum for outdoor work, and SPF 50 gives high protection.
  • The UVA logo in a circle means the UVA protection is at least a third of the labelled SPF.

Mineral oils

Long-term contact with mineral oils can cause ulcers and sore patches that do not heal. These can be an early sign of skin cancer. Hands, face and other directly exposed areas are most at risk, but covered skin can be affected too. For male workers, the scrotum is a particular risk.

Problems often start when oily rags are kept in overall pockets, overalls are not cleaned regularly, or hands are not washed before using the toilet.

Skin care by work sector

Start every sector with a risk assessment. Once it is done, use this guide to what each workplace needs.

Work area Skin care considerations
Offices Provide soap and hot and cold running water in washrooms
Industrial manufacturing, including automotive and heavy engineering Use PPE to limit contact with contaminants, but avoid wearing impervious gloves for long periods. Use pre-work cream, the mildest suitable cleanser and after-work cream. Choose sealed cartridge dispensers or pump packs
Outdoor work, including construction, building trades and mobile workers Use gloves to limit contact, taking extra care with cement and irritant chemicals, which can cause severe burns. Do not wear impervious gloves continuously. Use pre-work cream, the mildest suitable cleanser, sunscreen on exposed skin, and after-work cream. Where washing facilities are limited, provide waterless cleansers or wipes
Food manufacture and service Use gloves where needed, but not continuously or for long periods. Keep handwashing to what food hygiene requires. Use a non-tainting, antibacterial cleanser and provide after-work cream
Personal care, including cleaning and hairdressing Use gloves for washing hair or handling chemicals, but avoid overuse. Provide a mild hand soap in dispensers. Rinse and dry hands thoroughly, and provide after-work cream

It's in your hands

Work-related skin disease causes pain, lost jobs and career changes. It costs industry millions in sickness absence, retraining and compensation, and puts pressure on the NHS. Most of it can be prevented.

GS Workwear supplies chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing for every sector. As a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accreditation, we can help you match protection to the task and the wearer.

Further reading

Source: BSIF, It's In Your Hands campaign guide, 2026 update. Images courtesy of the campaign guide.

Tags: Advice
It's In Your Hands: Preventing Work-Related Skin Disease

It's In Your Hands: Preventing Work-Related Skin Disease

Work-related skin disease causes real harm. Many people live with pain and discomfort. Some have had to give up work altogether. It also costs millions of pounds in compensation every year. The good news is that most cases can be prevented. A sensible, positive approach to health and safety protects your people and your business. It's In Your Hands was launched in 2006 by the HSE, the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), Safety Groups UK, BOHS, the Institute of Occupational Medicine and the TUC. HSE statistics show work-related dermatitis has been falling since. The campaign guide has now been updated for 2026. As a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier, we have pulled together its key advice for employers and employees. Who is most at risk? If you answer yes to any of these, your workforce may face a higher risk of skin disease. Do you use chemicals with hazard warnings, such as irritant, corrosive, harmful or toxic? Do hands touch hazardous substances daily, such as adhesives, paints, inks, solvents, dyes or shampoo? Do hands touch mineral oils, such as engine oils, lubricants, cutting fluids or greases? Are hands wet for more than 2 hours a day, or more than 20 times a day? This is known as wet working. Do workers handle plants, flowers or animal products? Do they touch other natural substances, such as food, wood dust or latex? Is there a risk of skin abrasion? Are workers out in the sun during the day? Does anyone have a pre-existing skin condition or allergy? Do people work in the cold, outdoors in winter or in cold storage? How skin comes into contact with hazards Chemical agents reach the skin in three main ways: Direct contact, through splashes and touching Contaminated surfaces, such as worktops, tools, coveralls and gloves Airborne substances that settle on the skin Hands and faces are most exposed, but covered skin is at risk too. Never keep contaminated cloths in pockets. Always wash dirty hands before and after using the toilet. Work-related dermatitis Dermatitis accounts for over 70% of work-related skin disease. It is mainly caused by chemical agents and wet work, where hands are wet for long periods during the day. Other causes include biological agents such as plants and bacteria, physical agents such as vibration and radiation, and mechanical damage such as abrasion. Hands are most at risk, but any part of the body can be affected. There are two main types: Allergic contact dermatitis happens when a substance sensitises the skin, triggering an allergic reaction. Irritant contact dermatitis happens when a substance or repeated wet work damages the skin directly. How to recognise dermatitis Look out for: Redness or swelling of the hands and fingers Cracked skin Blisters Flaking or scaling Itching with cracks Has anyone had these symptoms more than once in the last 12 months? Did their skin improve during time off work? If so, work could be the cause. Only a medical professional can diagnose work-related dermatitis. Trained safety reps and supervisors play a valuable part in spotting it early. Your legal obligations Several regulations apply to skin health at work. Regulation What it requires COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Identify hazardous substances, assess exposure and health risks, and put controls in place. Until this is done, employees may not work with the substances Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations Carry out risk assessments and introduce procedures to remove or minimise risks Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations Provide suitable washing facilities Employers must also consult employees and their representatives on health and safety, including when skin exposure cannot reasonably be prevented. Employees must co-operate to meet these duties. What counts as a hazardous substance? Here, it means any substance, or wet work, that can damage the skin. They fall into four groups: Those that irritate the skin, causing irritant contact dermatitis Those that sensitise the skin, causing allergic contact dermatitis Those that cause other skin diseases, such as skin cancer or loss of skin colour Those with other effects, such as burns Some substances pass through the skin and cause illness elsewhere in the body. Very hot, cold, dry or wet working conditions can also cause serious skin problems. How to recognise hazardous substances Under CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) rules, suppliers must label hazardous products and give professional users a Safety Data Sheet. Always read the label and the data sheet before using a chemical. The red diamond pictograms on the bottom row are the current CLP symbols. You may still see the older orange squares on some stock. Consumer products, such as those used in hairdressing, may not carry warning signs but can still be hazardous. If in doubt, ask your supplier. Preventing dermatitis in the workplace There is a legal duty to prevent work-related dermatitis by keeping skin contact with hazardous substances to a minimum. That means a safe system of work: safe handling methods, training, suitable PPE, skin cleansers and creams, and proper washing facilities. Regular skin checks can show whether your controls are working. Do not: Put hands in chemicals, or allow prolonged or repeated contact with water Work in a way that causes chemical splashes Let skin touch contaminated work pieces, surfaces, tools or clothing Do: Know the health risks of every chemical on site, and make sure labels are clear, read and understood Use tools and methods that keep hands away from hazardous substances Wear suitable protective gloves where needed Wash and dry hands regularly, including before putting gloves on and after taking them off Use pre-work and after-work creams to keep skin in good condition. Pre-work creams do not replace gloves Get medical advice if there are concerns about skin condition On average, a reported case of dermatitis costs an employer £6,000 (Diepgen et al, Contact Dermatitis, 2013). Safe working distance When hands are used as tools, they often end up in chemicals or water. That leaves no safe working distance (SWD). Tongs, a wire basket or long-handled tools can put space between hands and hazards. Work through these steps in order. Avoid skin contact: Eliminate. Remove the hazardous substance or wet work, for example by using a different process. Substitute. Use less harmful substances. Engineer it out. Use automated handling, full enclosure, local exhaust ventilation or tools that increase the SWD. Change the process. Set good working practices that prevent or minimise hand contact. Protect the skin. Where the steps above cannot give adequate control, provide suitable PPE and skin care products. Remember that wearing gloves for long periods can also raise the risk of dermatitis. Check. Regular skin checks catch dermatitis early, before it becomes serious. They also show gaps in your controls. The three-step skin care routine Skin care products keep skin healthy so it can do its job as a barrier. HSE COSHH guidance recommends pre-work and after-work creams. Step What it does How to use it Pre-work cream Makes hands easier to clean after work and may help protect the skin Apply before work. Useful where gloves are not needed, but never a substitute for them Skin cleanser Removes contaminants from the skin Use the mildest cleanser that does the job. Never use solvents such as white spirit. Rinse well and dry with disposable paper towels After-work cream Restores moisture and natural oils, reducing the risk of irritant dermatitis Apply at the end of each shift or after washing. Use a non-tainting formula in food areas Use dispensers rather than tubs to avoid cross contamination, and choose sealed cartridge systems for the best hygiene. Train staff to use each product correctly. The wrong product, or the right one used badly, may not help. Protective gloves and clothing "Any gloves will do" is a recipe for dermatitis. By law, gloves must be matched to the substance, the environment, the task and the wearer. Choose gloves approved to the right EN standard for the job. Most glove manufacturers offer a hand protection assessment, often free of charge. Think about: Protection against the specific hazard Sizing and fit Dexterity, so the task can be done safely Comfort and how long gloves will be worn Material and thickness, and how the substance permeates, penetrates or degrades it No glove gives 100% or unlimited protection. Good glove practice: Train staff to put on and remove gloves without contaminating their skin Provide proper storage and disposal Always put gloves on clean hands, and wash hands after taking them off Do not use gloves or clothing for more than a day unless the manufacturer guarantees extended use Never launder gloves or single-use clothing unless the manufacturer guarantees performance after washing Keep reusable gloves and clothing clean When choosing gloves or protective clothing, involve your workforce. Get expert advice from the chemical supplier, the glove or clothing supplier, or a health and safety professional. Skin cancer at work Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. At work, it has two main causes: Carcinogens, through prolonged contact with used mineral oils (including engine and some machine oils), coal tars and pitches UV from the sun, for outdoor workers and drivers The facts Around 173,600 new skin cancer cases and around 2,500 deaths each year in the UK (Cancer Research UK, as cited in the guide) 86% of melanoma skin cancer cases are preventable Construction workers have a skin cancer incidence rate six times higher than the general population Up to 90% of skin cancer deaths could be prevented if UV exposure is controlled (IOSH) There are two main groups. Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common. Malignant melanoma is rarer, but the most serious and can kill. It is curable if caught early. Know the ABCDE of melanoma Check your whole body once a month. See a doctor straight away about any change or unusual mark that lasts more than a few weeks. A = Asymmetry. One half of the mole does not match the other. B = Border. The edges are irregular, ragged or blurred. C = Colour. The colour is uneven throughout. D = Diameter. Wider than 6mm, though it could be smaller. E = Evolving. The mole changes over weeks, months or years. Also seek advice if a mole becomes itchy, painful, bleeds, crusts or looks inflamed. Protecting outdoor workers from the sun HSE guidance treats UV as an occupational hazard for outdoor workers. Sunburn in sunny, shady or even cloudy conditions raises the risk of skin cancer. Those most at risk have very fair skin, a personal or family history of skin cancer, more than 50 moles, or take immunosuppressive drugs. Include sun exposure in your risk assessment and in routine safety training. The same applies to drivers: most vehicle glass blocks UVB, but not UVA. Encourage workers to: Shade. Work in the shade where possible, and remember protection is still needed there. Cover up. Keep tops on. Wear a broad-brimmed hat that covers the ears and neck, and UV-protective sunglasses. Protect. Apply SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, from Easter to at least the end of August, and on warm September days too. Apply to clean, dry skin 15 to 20 minutes before going out, again once outside, then every 2 to 3 hours. Reapply more often when sweating. Hydrate. Drink plenty of water. Check. Look for unusual moles, spots or skin changes, and get medical advice. Choosing a professional sunscreen Clothing and hats give the best protection. Sunscreen covers the parts that are hard to cover up, and should protect against both UVA and UVB. SPF shows protection mainly against UVB. SPF 30 is the recommended minimum for outdoor work, and SPF 50 gives high protection. The UVA logo in a circle means the UVA protection is at least a third of the labelled SPF. Mineral oils Long-term contact with mineral oils can cause ulcers and sore patches that do not heal. These can be an early sign of skin cancer. Hands, face and other directly exposed areas are most at risk, but covered skin can be affected too. For male workers, the scrotum is a particular risk. Problems often start when oily rags are kept in overall pockets, overalls are not cleaned regularly, or hands are not washed before using the toilet. Skin care by work sector Start every sector with a risk assessment. Once it is done, use this guide to what each workplace needs. Work area Skin care considerations Offices Provide soap and hot and cold running water in washrooms Industrial manufacturing, including automotive and heavy engineering Use PPE to limit contact with contaminants, but avoid wearing impervious gloves for long periods. Use pre-work cream, the mildest suitable cleanser and after-work cream. Choose sealed cartridge dispensers or pump packs Outdoor work, including construction, building trades and mobile workers Use gloves to limit contact, taking extra care with cement and irritant chemicals, which can cause severe burns. Do not wear impervious gloves continuously. Use pre-work cream, the mildest suitable cleanser, sunscreen on exposed skin, and after-work cream. Where washing facilities are limited, provide waterless cleansers or wipes Food manufacture and service Use gloves where needed, but not continuously or for long periods. Keep handwashing to what food hygiene requires. Use a non-tainting, antibacterial cleanser and provide after-work cream Personal care, including cleaning and hairdressing Use gloves for washing hair or handling chemicals, but avoid overuse. Provide a mild hand soap in dispensers. Rinse and dry hands thoroughly, and provide after-work cream It's in your hands Work-related skin disease causes pain, lost jobs and career changes. It costs industry millions in sickness absence, retraining and compensation, and puts pressure on the NHS. Most of it can be prevented. GS Workwear supplies chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing for every sector. As a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accreditation, we can help you match protection to the task and the wearer. Further reading Skin at work (HSE) Health Risks at Work (Safety Groups UK) Sun safety for outdoor workers (IOSH) Skin Cancer Research Fund (SKCIN) British Safety Industry Federation Source: BSIF, It's In Your Hands campaign guide, 2026 update. Images courtesy of the campaign guide.

Read more
Noise at Work: How Loud Is Too Loud?

Noise at Work: How Loud Is Too Loud?

Hearing loss is permanent, and noise at work does the damage quietly. Sound waves move tiny hair cells inside the ear. Once those cells are damaged, they stop sending signals to the brain and they do not grow back. According to RNID, around 18 million adults in the UK are deaf or have hearing loss. That is roughly 1 in 3 adults are affected from hearing loss. The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) campaign, Listen Today, Hear Tomorrow, sets out simple steps to protect your workforce. As a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier, we have pulled together its key advice below. Temporary or permanent: know the difference Hearing damage is usually gradual, which makes it hard to notice until it is too late. Temporary hearing loss can follow an ear infection, wax, pressure changes on a flight, or a few hours in a noisy workplace, pub or club. It should wear off, and infections can usually be treated. Permanent hearing loss comes with age and illness, but also from regular exposure to loud noise. It cannot be repaired. Once it is gone, it is gone. Many people also develop tinnitus: a constant ringing, whistling, buzzing or humming in the ears. It is distressing and can lead to stress and disturbed sleep. How loud is too loud? You cannot always tell. People get used to noise, so their sense of what is loud shifts over time. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 set clear exposure levels. When they are likely to be reached, employers must act. Level Daily or weekly exposure Peak sound pressure What employers must do Lower exposure action value 80 dB(A) 135 dB(C) Assess the risk, give information and training, and make hearing protection available Upper exposure action value 85 dB(A) 137 dB(C) Reduce exposure with control measures, mark hearing protection zones and make sure protection is worn Exposure limit value 87 dB(A) 140 dB(C) Must not be exceeded, taking hearing protection into account To put those numbers in context, here is how everyday noise compares. Most everyday noises reach the 85 dB upper action value 6 of 7 common noises at 85 dB or above Normal conversation 60 dB Busy city traffic 85 dB Hair dryer 90 dB Rock concert 105 dB Chainsaw 110 dB Music player at peak volume 115 dB Jackhammer 120 dB 80 dB lower action value 85 dB upper action value Source: BSIF Listen Today, Hear Tomorrow, citing dangerousdecibels.org and WSJ research. A noisy site can easily sit above the upper action value for a full shift. Everyday noise levels are not the same as daily exposure, but they show how quickly the risk builds. How to check if the noise is too loud 1. Ask yourself four questions. Do I have to shout to talk to someone about 2 metres away? Do I feel the noise, or tense up when it starts? Do I relax, or feel relief, when it stops or I walk away? Can I only hear someone when they are looking at me? If the answer to any of these is yes, the noise may be harmful. 2. Try a noise app. A sound meter app on your phone gives a rough guide to whether you need to act. 3. Get advice. If either check points to harmful noise, take action. Read the guidance at hse.gov.uk/noise and consider a workplace noise assessment by a qualified person. Protect your workforce with the hierarchy of control The hierarchy of control is a structured way to manage noise at the planning stage. Follow it properly and hearing protection may not be needed at all. Eliminate the noise. Can the noisy process or equipment be replaced completely, or changed so it no longer creates hazardous noise? Substitute the noise. Can the job be done a quieter way? Swap in a quieter component, such as a gearbox, or squeeze instead of punch. Limit the transmission. Dampen vibrating panels, fit silencers to exhausts, screen or enclose noisy parts, reduce impacts and provide noise havens. Move noisy work away from other people. Use administrative controls. Buy or hire low noise equipment as policy. Prioritise noise in maintenance. Make sure training and health surveillance are fit for purpose. Keep quiet work in quiet places. Provide PPE. Mark hearing protection zones and control access. Give suitable protection to every employee and visitor entering them, with the training to wear it correctly. Hearing protection is the last resort. It should support other controls, never replace them. Choosing the right hearing protection When noise cannot be reduced any further, choose protection that suits the wearer and the work. Type How it works Best for Roll down foam earplugs Foam that expands to fill the ear canal Single use. Worn once and thrown away Reusable earplugs Pre-shaped, so the part that goes in the ear is never touched Frequent entry to noisy areas. Washable Custom moulded earplugs Moulded to fit one person's ear canal exactly Regular, long-term wearers. Washable Banded earplugs Pods on a band under the chin, sitting at the entrance to each ear canal Moving in and out of noisy areas. Can dislodge when bending or stretching Earmuffs Foam-filled cups on a sprung headband Easy on and off. Can be fitted to safety helmets Get the most from hearing protection Choose the right level. This will not usually be the highest available. Make sure it suits the user. It must fit their work and sit comfortably with any other PPE or equipment. Wear it the whole time. Taking protection off for just 5 minutes in an hour cuts the protection achieved by more than half. Two hearing protection myths Myth: always use the highest level of protection. Too much protection feels uncomfortable and isolating, so people take it off. Match the protection to the level and duration of the noise. Myth: you will not hear anything with protection on. Hearing protection reduces sound, it does not block it. Most wearers hear more than they expect. Everyday habits that protect hearing Never put dirty objects in your ears Turn down the volume on headphones and speakers Reduce the noise, or move further away from it Spend less time in noisy areas Buy quiet: choose low noise models when replacing or hiring machinery Wear hearing protection to cut the noise level at the ear Why it matters for your business Employers have a legal duty not to damage the hearing of the people who work for them. Noise-induced hearing loss claims are costly, and a poor claims history can push up insurance premiums. A good hearing conservation programme protects your people and your bottom line. Listen today, hear tomorrow Take straightforward action now. Hearing damage cannot be put right once it has happened. GS Workwear supplies earplugs, banded protectors and earmuffs for every noise level and working environment. As a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accreditation, we can help you find protection your team will actually wear. Shop Hearing Protection➜ Further reading Noise at work (HSE) Hearing protection guidance (HSE) Controlling noise at work, L108 (HSE) British Safety Industry Federation Source: BSIF, Listen Today, Hear Tomorrow campaign.

Read more
Knife Safety at Work: Cut Injury Guide

Knife Safety at Work: Cut Injury Guide

Why knife safety matters Knives are one of the most common tools at work. They are also one of the most dangerous. A single slip can mean a severed tendon, weeks off work and a hand that never fully recovers. The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) is tackling this head on with its campaign, Cutting Out Knife Injuries. As a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier, we are proud to support it. This guide breaks down the campaign's key advice so you can protect your team, from the risk assessment right through to the gloves on their hands. The numbers behind the campaign The figures BSIF highlights make the case clearly. Over 10% of major injuries reported to HSE in the food and drink industries come from falling objects or hand knife cuts. 25 to 50% of all lost time accidents in plastics processing are typically caused by hand knives (HSE/Plastics Processors H&S Liaison Committee). 43,000 knife-based reportable workplace accidents were recorded in 2019 (German Social Accident Insurance). 58% of workplace accidents involving manual tools were caused by knives (German Social Accident Insurance). Whatever your sector, the pattern is the same. Knives cause a large share of preventable injuries. How knife injuries happen Most knife injuries follow the same pattern. The blade slips during cutting or trimming and meets the worker's other hand. The result is a laceration to the hand or fingers. The human cost can last a lifetime. A tendon injury could stop someone playing their favourite sport, riding, or holding a grandchild. In the worst cases, knife injuries are fatal. The business cost is real too: Lost revenue from time off work Potential litigation Damage to your Corporate Social Responsibility commitments Time pressure is often the hidden cause. Rushing a job or grabbing whatever blade is nearest is where accidents start. Start with the hierarchy of controls Preventing knife injuries starts well before anyone picks up a blade. The hierarchy of controls gives you a clear order to work through, from most to least effective. Elimination. Remove the need for a knife altogether where possible. Substitution. Swap knives for safer tools such as scissors or deburring tools. Engineering controls. Change tooling, moulds or processes to reduce or remove cutting. Administrative controls. Put a set knife policy in place so cutting tools are properly managed. PPE. The last line of defence. Cut-resistant gloves, sleeves and garments protect against accidental cuts. PPE matters, but it should never be the only control. Work down the list first. Choosing the right safety knife If your risk assessment shows a knife is still needed, choose a safety knife. HSE guidance groups them into five types, from safest to least safe. Group Type How it protects 1 Bladeless and disposable concealed blade cutters Blade edge is hidden and there is no blade to change, so replacement injuries are ruled out 2 Concealed blade Blade edge is shielded from the user, with changeable blades 3 Fully automatic retraction Blade retracts the moment it leaves the material, without relying on the user 4 Spring-loaded retraction Blade springs back once the user releases the slider and the blade leaves the material 5 Manual retraction User must retract the blade by hand. If put down extended, it stays exposed Check the claims before you buy. Ask the manufacturer for testing or proof behind its safety performance claims. Know the standards. According to BSIF, there are currently no ISO, CE, UKCA or BSI standards specific to safety knives. The best recognised general product safety mark is the German GS (Geprüfte Sicherheit) mark. Know the law. In the UK, safety knives fall under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). PUWER places duties on businesses whose employees use work equipment, whether the business owns it or not. Build a safety knife policy A written policy keeps knife use consistent across your site. BSIF recommends covering eight points: Elimination Specifying the right knife Making spare knives and blades available Providing safe storage for knives and blades Specifying the right PPE Considering the working environment Developing and delivering training Checking and monitoring PPE: matching the glove to the risk Once the right knife is chosen, PPE is your last line of defence. The key is matching protection to the level of risk. Score the task. BSIF's quick guide multiplies the risk of a cut (1 to 6) by the severity of the hazard (1 to 5). The higher the score, the higher the cut level you need. For example, a risk of 4 and a hazard severity of 3 gives a score of 12. That points to a Cut D glove. Any glove rated D or above that also performs well on grip, dexterity and comfort is suitable. Read the EN 388 label. Gloves for mechanical risks carry the EN 388 shield pictogram with a code such as 4X32D. Each character is a test result: Position Test Scale 1 Abrasion 0 to 4 2 Cut (Coupe test) 0 to 5, or X if not tested 3 Tear 0 to 4 4 Puncture 0 to 4 5 Cut (ISO 13997 TDM high cut test) A to F Understand the cut letters. The ISO 13997 letter shows the minimum force in newtons needed to cut through the material. Level Minimum force Typical use A 2 N Low cut hazard, packing, finishing B 5 N Low cut hazard, packing, finishing C 10 N Medium cut hazard, handling and assembly D 15 N Medium cut hazard, handling and assembly E 22 N Highest protection for sharp objects F 30 N Highest protection for sharp objects If in doubt, go higher. A higher rated glove is always preferable, as long as it still gives good grip, dexterity and touch sensitivity. Cut-resistant PPE is made from high performance yarns such as HPPE, Kevlar, aramids and Dyneema. These are knitted into gloves, sleeves and body protection, often with coatings for extra grip and liquid resistance. Risk v Hazard: ISO 13997 calculator tool Risk 6 6 12 18 24 30 5 5 10 15 20 25 4 4 8 12 16 20 3 3 6 9 12 15 2 2 4 6 8 10 1 1 2 3 4 5 Hazard 1 2 3 4 5 Very low Low Med High Very high N = Newtons of protection 1 or A: 0-2 N B: 3-5 N C: 6-10 N D: 11-15 N E: 16-22 N F: 23-30+ N Example highlighted: a cut risk of 4 and a hazard severity of 3 gives a score of 12, pointing to a Cut D glove. Source: BSIF. Choosing gloves for knife work: your checklist A cut rating alone does not make a glove right for the job. Check each of these: Grip. Secure hold on the knife and the goods being handled. Dexterity. Enough feel to work accurately and safely. Compatibility. Works alongside other PPE such as sleeves, aprons, shirts and coveralls. Oil and liquids. Choose a suitable coating if either is present. Size and fit. A poor fit reduces both protection and control. Other tasks. If gloves come off often, make sure they always go back on. Wear and tear. Replace gloves once they are past their usable life. Worn gloves no longer protect. Stop and think before every cut Never compromise on safety, whatever the pressure. Before any cutting job, stop and ask how you will keep your hands safe. GS Workwear supplies cut-resistant gloves, sleeves and protective clothing for every level of risk. As a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accreditation, we can help you specify the right protection for your team. [Get in touch with our team] to find the right fit. Shop cut resistant gloves here→ Further reading PUWER 1998 (HSE) Using work equipment safely (HSE INDG229) Safe use of work equipment ACOP (HSE L22) Guide to GS mark certification (Intertek) References BSIF, Cutting Out Knife Injuries campaign. Statistics marked German Social Accident Insurance are from its 2020 data.

Read more

Trusted Service

20,000+ 5 Star Reviews

Free Delivery*

On all orders £75 or more

Trade & Wholesale

Apply for a Trade Account

60,000+ Products

From Top Professional Brands