occupational dermatoses, skin disorders associated with exposure to toxic chemicals or other agents in the workplace. An estimated 80% of cases of contact dermatitis are the result of exposure to chemical irritants. Common agents of contact dermatitis in the workplace are glass fibers, cutting fluids, chemical stains, and polyhalogenated aromatic compounds such as phenol, naphthalene, and aniline herbicide intermediates. Factors influencing development of dermatoses include skin thickness, skin permeability, anatomical site, concentration of chemical, surface area of exposure, and type of substance in which the toxic chemical is dissolved or mixed.
