Abstract
Approximately one-quarter of all TLV-designated chemicals are assigned a skin notation, signifying the potential for significant contribution to overall exposure by the cutaneous route, including the mucous membrane and eyes. There are few practical and straightforward techniques for measuring and assessing dermal exposures in the workplace. Certainly, the potential for dermal exposure can first be evaluated by considering the physical and chemical characteristics of a given compound, but methods for measuring dermal exposures are less well defined. The objective of the AIHce 2005 roundtable "Evaluation and Control of Dermal Exposures in the Workplace" was to present state-of-the-art qualitative and quantitative approaches for measuring, evaluating and controlling dermal exposures in the workplace. Sponsored by the AIHA Exposure Assessment Strategies Committee, the roundtable included four presentations made by internationally recognized experts who balanced experimental concepts with real-world data. Presenters focused on the development and effectiveness of methods for reducing dermal exposures and improving worker health.