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How does skin come into contact with chemicals?

Immersing object into chemical with bare hands Immersing hands (sometimes legs) into chemicals

Direct handling of contaminated workpieces Direct handling of contaminated work pieces

Dust coming off clothing as touched Contact with contaminated surfaces (eg workbench, tools, clothing and containers)


Splashing Splashing (eg when liquid or powdery chemicals are mixed or handled)

Dust in the airDeposition of airborne contaminants eg cement dust'

Hands being washedWet work (eg frequent hand washing)

Note on wet work

Prolonged or frequent contact with water, particularly in combination with soaps and detergents, can cause dermatitis (eg a long time spent washing up or frequent handwashing). ‘Wet work’ is the term used to describe such tasks in the workplace.