Page 46 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

2/7/2019 Page 2 of 4

After-work creams

After-work creams are general purpose 'moisturisers' designed to replace the natural skin oils
removed by washing and solvent action of substances in contact with the skin.

What level of protection can pre-work creams give?

Pre-work creams are not 'liquid gloves'; there is no such thing. They will not give the same
level of protection as properly selected gloves. Never use a cream if a glove will do the job
because:
a. when washing their hands most people regularly miss certain areas. Equally the same
tends to be true when applying a cream. Areas of the skin may be left unprotected - the
equivalent of wearing gloves with holes!
b. when selecting gloves it is necessary to take into account how quickly the hazardous
substance will penetrate the glove material (known as the 'permeability'). Data is
available for gloves but is not yet available for creams.
c. personal protective equipment (PPE) is subject to wear and tear. With gloves this can
easily be checked;
d. creams begin to wear off as soon as work commences but the loss of protection is
unlikely to be so apparent.

What steps should be taken to reduce skin diseases?

a. Remove the hazard:

i. change to a safer substance; or, if not reasonably practicable,
ii. ensure control measures are in place and maintained, eg automated handling
systems, automatic dispensers, splash guards;
b. Ensure employees are adequately trained and instructed so they are aware of hazards
and precautions which are required to be taken;

c. If a risk still exists PPE may be appropriate;
d. If exposure is significant, health surveillance may be required;
e. If anyone does develop a skin condition they should consult their doctor so it can be
dealt with at an early stage. If it appears that something at work is either causing the
condition or making it worse contact your Manager.