Dermatitis Investigations

Dermatitis investigation are often extremely challenging. It is often not possible to sort out allergic contact dermatitis from non-allergic irritation.

Sharon Bessa Morey’s education and experience in both occupational health nursing and industrial hygiene provides a background essential for solving these complex occupational problems.

Our approach includes:

1. Document Review
   We review incident reports, medical records, and Material Safety Data Sheets.

2. Walkthrough Survey
   Job tasks are reviewed in detail.
3. Employee Interviews
   One-on-one interviews are held with the employees who have been experiencing dermatitis as well as those who have not been affected. We also work closely with physicians to help sort out the diagnosis.
4. Hypothesis Grid
   Unless the source of dermatitis becomes obvious during the first three steps, a fourth step is necessary. The Hypothesis Grid is completed to include all potential sources for the dermatitis. Each potential source is systematically considered and ruled out or left on the Grid for further investigation.
5. Recommendations
   Recommendations for general skin care and dermatitis avoidance is provided.
6. Employee Training
   Employee training programs include information on:
   • Normal skin function and structure
   • Work practices for avoiding dermatitis
   • Protective equipment for hands
   • What to do if exposure or dermatitis occur