Survey reveals skin dangers for printers

A recent survey found that 41% of print workers had suffered from a skin complaint at some time.

Nearly 1,200 members the GPMU printing and media union took part in the research project which also found that 11% had a current problem, mostly affecting the fingers, webs between them and the back of the hand. This was despite the fact that 68% reported that they used gloves.

In print shops, products such as developers, etching solutions, cleaning solvents, inks, glues, gums, oils and greases can all cause skin irritation. Andrew Porter, chair of the Printing Industry Advisory Committee said, "The research has demonstrated that there is a mistaken belief that sufficient protection will be achieved by using gloves alone." Porter made clear that many other factors need to be considered to implement an effective regime to prevent skin disease.

The prevalence of occupational dermatitis amongst printers in the Midlands, E Livesley, L Rushton, contract research report 307/2000, available from HSE Books (see below).