Skin complaints may lead to rash actions

Catering bosses could be breaching health and safety law by ignoring complaints from employees about skin irritations.

Chefs, kitchen assistants, waiters, bar staff and cleaners are at high risk of developing occupational dermatitis, which can start as redness and itching but can develop into cracked, bleeding skin and spread all over the body.

The catering industry accounts for 10% of all recorded cases of the condition, according to the Health & Safety Executive. "It has been a hidden problem, but we have increasing anecdotal evidence that more people are suffering from this in the catering industry," said Percy Smith, HSE principal inspector for the catering industry.

What employers may not realise, said Smith, is that they have a duty under health and safety regulations to eliminate any risk to employees' health. This could mean avoiding use of certain substances or providing protection.

The condition can also cost employers money if it becomes so bad that workers take time off work or even decide to change their jobs.

For further information ring the HSE information line on 0541 545500.

by Christina Golding