Abstract
Skin hygiene is the science of preserving skin health. It means cleanliness of the skin and clothing, the prime requisite in preventing occupational skin disease. In most industrial plants, the level of cleanliness determines the frequency of the occupational dermatoses. A good preventive program is attained ideally through industrial hygiene engineering and medical control methods, but these are available only to a small percentage of the employed. In the small plants it is necessary to rely upon personal hygienic practices to attain cleanliness. Management must be aware of its responsibility to furnish the workmen with washing facilities, industrial cleansers, and if necessary, protective clothing and ointments. Workmen must be informed about the existing hazards and taught the importance of cleanliness. There is no magic formula for preventing these skin disorders. The workman who fails to use the facilities provided generally develops dermatitis; the management which disregards their need pays unnecessary compensation.