National Symposium for the Prevention of Occupational Skin Conditions. Held in Washington, DC. on September 14, 1988

摘要

The purpose for the symposium was to take the initiative in protecting the nation's work force from costly and preventable skin conditions. Five steps were proposed to assist in this endeavor: promoting the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) strategy document as an opportunity for increased cooperative effort in the public health community; demonstrating the concern and commitment of the American Academy of Dermatology along with NIOSH; providing a forum for dermatologists and public health officials to interact and develop a strategy; preparing a list of practical and feasible ideas to implement the strategy; and organizing a framework to assure periodic reassessment and continual implementation of the goals. The various roles assigned to NIOSH, OSHA, and the dermatologist in recognizing these goals were delineated. An overview of the national strategy document was included along with a congressional viewpoint of the situation. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics were presented which supported the severity of the problem and highlighted various surveillance projects underway. The prevention and control workshop stressed the need to inform workers concerning hazardous materials and the steps needed to prevent exposure. Suggestions for additional research in the field were included along with a listing of those in attendance at the symposium.