benefits of barrier creams
Research has already been conducted showing solvents, cleaners, chemicals, and other potentially toxic materials are harmful to our skin. 13 million workers are exposed to potentially harmful disorders and skin diseases every year. Skin is our body's natural layer of protection from disease and infection. When we compromise our skin, we have a much greater chance of infection and even life-threatening diseases. This brief article is designed to build awareness of how important our skin is and how we can protect it while we are at work.
Even though our skin is a natural barrier to protect us, personal protective gear designed to keep our skin safe may be necessary. PPE will help reduce exposure to many of the contaminants that can make us sick. Our skin can absorb contaminants into our system and make us sick. That is why clothing like gowns, sleeves, and jackets can help protect our skin at work. Without the proper protection, workers are put at risk for diseases like “contact dermatitis” which is induced by chemical exposure to the skin. As a matter of fact, 10-15% of all occupational illnesses are contact dermatitis. This billion-dollar problem continues to affect millions of workers every year. We believe that engineering out the hazards is the best solution. Personal protection equipment is another means to help reduce Contact Dermatitis and other skin conditions.
Pre-work barrier creams are another option. Used properly, pre-work barrier creams can also be an effective means to protect our skin. Europe has already mandated that pre-work creams be included as part of a skin health program. Even our own federal agency that protects workers' health and safety states that "pre-work barrier creams may be useful for some employees who work with metalworking fluids”. Workers who have worn protective clothing will attest to the difficult conditions brought on by heat and sweating caused by some PPE. Pre-work protective barrier creams are a nice option that offer added protection from contaminants and chemicals causing skin irritation and the comfort it offers the worker is impressive.
It is important that the employer and worker carefully read MSDS data and other documents that will help determine what type of PPE or protective cream to use for each job application. All warnings and instructions should be reviewed to determine any risks. Many companies all over the United States regularly use pre-work protective creams as a regimented part of their work processes. They can help reduce risks for skin irritation and keep your employees productive at work. Take a close look at the pre-work protective creams here.
Hand Protection Products & Accessories
Work Skin Care Products
Work Glove Products
Medical Glove Products
Additional Resources for Hand Protection & Supplies
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Skin & Hand Protection Basics
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