Preventive Measures for Occupationally Induced Immediate Contact Reactions

By definition, work-related and occupational immediate contact reactions can be prevented by measures that eliminate or reduce occupational exposures. Thus, effective prevention starts at the legislation level, which creates a framework for not only the elimination, substitution, and reduction of skin urticariogens and allergens at the workplace, but also for the recognition of occupational skin diseases. In addition, preventive measures must contribute to maintain the natural protective function of the skin and to restore a damaged skin barrier when it is disrupted by occupational exposures. This chapter provides evidence-based standards for the prevention of work-related and occupational immediate contact reactions from the legislation level to everyday medical practice.