A long-term failure to provide its employees with hot water to wash their hands put workers at risk of contracting dermatitis, a skin condition, at a decorating supplies firm in North Devon, Great Britain.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Mike Wye and Associates Ltd, producing natural building and decorating products, failed to provide hot water over a period of four years despite workers using hydrated lime for the manufacture of lime putty. Hydrated lime is a well-known irritant to both skin and eyes and is a cause of dermatitis. (WCxKit)
Dermatitis is a skin condition caused by contact with something that causes irritation to the skin or an allergic reaction. It usually occurs when an irritant touches the skin, but not always. Someone who has dermatitis may experience symptoms of itching and pain. The signs and symptoms of this condition can be so severe the sufferer is unable to carry on at work.
The HSE prosecution told Barnstaple Magistrates running water was provided at the Buckland Filleigh Sawmills site, but froze in winter. (Editor’s Note: Does this mean the employees had NO running water in winter?)
After the hearing, HSE Inspector, Simon Jones, noted, “The provision of hot running water is one of the most basic rights for workers, especially when they are dealing with materials that could cause skin disease. Although the company provided cold water and gel this did not encourage workers to wash their hands.” (WCxKit)
The employer pled guilty to three contraventions of the Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare Regulations 1992 and was fined a total of £3,500 ($5,647) with £588 ($948) costs.
Author Robert Elliott, executive vice president, Amaxx Risks Solutions, Inc. has worked successfully for 20 years with many industries to reduce Workers Compensation costs, including airlines, healthcare, printing/publishing, pharmaceuticals, retail, hospitality and manufacturing. See www.LowerWC.com for more information. Contact: [email protected] or 860-553-6604.
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