Occupational disease
Occupational dermatitis
Apr
People who have to work continuously in environments with direct exposure to sunlight, dust, and toxic chemicals often face various health issues, including occupational hyperpigmentation. This condition affects millions of people worldwide, especially those working in industries directly impacted by environmental factors such as construction, agriculture, and mechanical work, among others.
1. What is occupational hyperpigmentation?
Occupational hyperpigmentation is a pathological condition characterized by increased pigment in the skin due to exposure to causative agents during work. These causative agents are substances that increase the skin’s sensitivity to light and ultraviolet radiation in the workplace.
Melanin is irregularly shaped granules produced by cells located in the epidermal layer of the skin.
The condition manifests as dark patches on the skin associated with contact with photosensitizing substances under sunlight. It typically appears on exposed areas such as the face, neck, temples, wrists, and ankles, leading to reduced self-confidence. This is not only a health issue but also a psychosocial concern that requires attention.
2. Occupations at risk of occupational hyperpigmentation
Common jobs and sources of exposure:
- Exposure to gasoline and petroleum products.
- Coke and coal production.
- Rubber chemical additive manufacturing.
- Mechanical work.
- Other occupations exposed to substances that increase skin sensitivity to sunlight and UV light.
3. Mechanism and causes of occupational hyperpigmentation
The mechanism of occupational hyperpigmentation involves harmful agents acting on the epidermal layer of the skin.
When the skin is exposed to sunlight or causative agents, it produces melanin (the pigment responsible for darkening the skin) to protect itself. Continuous exposure to these harmful agents leads to excessive melanin production, resulting in accumulation and hyperpigmentation.
Additionally, harmful agents can damage the skin and reduce its regenerative capacity, worsening hyperpigmentation.
However, occupational hyperpigmentation is not caused by a single agent alone—it also depends on individual susceptibility and the degree of exposure. If left untreated, it can negatively impact health and mental well-being.
Discover the Occupational Hyperpigmentation Risk Assessment Tool, an in-depth resource for hyperpigmentation in the workplace. This tool provides detailed risk evaluations and preventive measures to help workers and managers better understand and manage risks in their work environment. With multidimensional data and advanced algorithms, the tool is a reliable source for health professionals and occupational safety managers. Its primary goal is to protect workers from occupational hyperpigmentation while maintaining a safe and sustainable working environment.
4. Symptoms of occupational hyperpigmentation
Systemic symptoms may precede skin changes, lasting from weeks to months:
- Fatigue, insomnia, headaches, dizziness, memory loss, poor appetite, weight loss, slow heartbeat, low blood pressure.
- Itching and burning sensations at affected areas.
Skin symptoms occur in three stages:
- Stage I: Redness on exposed skin with itching. Later develops into a net-like hyperpigmentation pattern. On the forearms, hyperpigmentation may be accompanied by follicular keratosis. The forehead and temples may also show net-like hyperpigmentation.
- Stage II: Increased hyperpigmentation, possibly over congested skin. Skin darkens progressively to a deep brown, with visible capillaries. Scaling may appear on the surface, with slight skin atrophy and keratosis.
- Stage III: Net-like hyperpigmentation, lead-colored skin, pronounced skin atrophy, especially on thin skin areas.
5. Hazards of occupational hyperpigmentation
Occupational hyperpigmentation can have several negative effects:
- Severe hyperpigmentation can impact self-confidence and mental health, causing stress and social discomfort.
- Continuous exposure to harmful agents increases the risk of skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma.
- Dry, hyperpigmented skin may crack, providing opportunities for bacterial and fungal infections.
- Prolonged exposure to sunlight and harmful agents can reduce vitamin D synthesis, leading to osteoporosis and bone-related health issues.
To protect health, workers should use protective equipment, wear masks, apply sunscreen, and maintain proper skincare. Any symptoms should prompt a dermatologist consultation for timely diagnosis and treatment.
6. Protective equipment to prevent occupational hyperpigmentation
To prevent occupational hyperpigmentation, workers should use appropriate protective equipment:
- Protective masks or respirators, depending on the work environment.
- Protective glasses or UV-blocking goggles.
- Gloves.
- Protective clothing.
- Protective footwear.
- Sunscreen.
Using the full range of protective equipment reduces exposure to harmful agents and helps prevent skin-related conditions, especially hyperpigmentation.
7. Compensation for workers with occupational hyperpigmentation
In Vietnam, workers with occupational hyperpigmentation may be compensated under labor law and social insurance regulations:
- Under the Social Insurance Law, affected workers are entitled to benefits covering wages, treatment costs, and other health recovery expenses.
- If the condition arises from unsafe working conditions, employees may claim compensation from employers, including medical expenses, lost wages, travel costs, and other related expenses.
Eligibility requires proof that the condition is work-related and meeting insurance contribution requirements.
8. Treatment of occupational hyperpigmentation
Treatment depends on severity and type of exposure:
- The most important step is to stop exposure to causative agents to prevent progression and reduce symptoms.
- Topical medications and, in severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed to reduce melanin production, under dermatological supervision.
- Laser treatment may be used in severe, treatment-resistant cases.
- Dietary and lifestyle changes can support improvement by avoiding exposure and providing necessary nutrients.
Treatment should always be guided by a dermatologist to ensure safety and effectiveness.
9. Prevention of occupational hyperpigmentation
Preventive measures include:
- Adjusting materials or work duration to limit exposure to sunlight and UV radiation.
- Improving ventilation and dust extraction.
- Proper use of protective equipment.
- Using skin protection products such as sunscreen and barrier creams.
10. Employer responsibilities in preventing occupational hyperpigmentation
Employers must ensure workplace safety and protect employees from hyperpigmentation:
- Provide sufficient and quality protective equipment and training on its use and maintenance.
- Train employees on prevention and safe handling of harmful agents.
- Improve workplace environment to reduce exposure.
- Implement preventive measures, maintain cleanliness, and minimize risk.
- Conduct occupational environment monitoring and report results to improve workplace safety.
11. National Occupational Environment Monitoring Center
Nam Viet Occupational Environment Monitoring Center is a professional unit for monitoring and measuring occupational environment quality across Vietnam. With experienced monitoring specialists, the center uses modern equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
REGISTER FOR OCCUPATIONAL ENVIRONMENT MONITORING SERVICE
The center also supports clients in planning, handling, and tracking occupational environmental issues. With a “customer-centric” approach, the center ensures satisfaction and provides optimal solutions.
12. Occupational environment monitoring pricing
Nam Viet provides clients with professional and affordable monitoring service pricing.
- The pricing table details service costs, including travel, measurement, analysis, and reporting.
- We ensure competitive pricing and provide quick, professional consultation.
- Clients can easily choose packages to suit their needs with professional service quality assurance.
