Dermatitis Claims: A Complete Guide to Workplace-Related Dermatitis Compensation
Skin conditions like dermatitis are some of the most common workplace-related illnesses in the UK. In certain industries, exposure to irritants and hazardous substances can lead to painful, persistent skin problems that affect both your health and your ability to work.
If you’ve developed dermatitis as a result of your working conditions or employer negligence, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This guide will explain how dermatitis claims work, what you can claim for, and how our expert team can help you through the process.
What is a Dermatitis Claim?
A dermatitis claim is a legal case made when an individual suffers from skin irritation, inflammation, or long-term skin conditions as a result of unsafe working conditions, poor safety procedures, or inadequate protective measures.
Instead of treating it as a minor issue, dermatitis can have a serious impact on your quality of life — causing pain, discomfort, and even forcing you to leave your job if it becomes too severe.
Examples of dermatitis claims include:
- A cleaner developing contact dermatitis from constant exposure to cleaning chemicals without proper gloves or protective equipment.
- A factory worker suffering from skin inflammation caused by contact with oils, solvents, or adhesives without appropriate safety measures.
- A hairdresser experiencing allergic dermatitis after handling dyes, bleaches, and shampoos over time without adequate protection or safety protocols.
How to Make a Dermatitis Claim
Starting a claim might feel overwhelming, especially if you’re still dealing with ongoing symptoms or work pressures. We’ve broken the process down into simple, manageable steps:
Step 1: Arrange a Free, No-Obligation Consultation
Reach out to our team for a confidential, free consultation. We’ll listen carefully to your story, assess whether you have a valid claim, and explain what your next steps should be.
Step 2: Gather Essential Information
To build a successful case, we’ll need:
- When, where, and how your dermatitis started or worsened
- Details of your job, working environment, and materials used
- Medical records confirming your diagnosis and treatment
- Details of safety procedures (or the lack of them) in your workplace
- Records of any risk assessments or COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) reports
- Witness statements from colleagues or supervisors (if any)
- Evidence of financial losses (e.g. lost earnings, treatment expenses)
Your claim will be handled by an experienced solicitor specialising in occupational illness and industrial disease cases.
What If Your Employer Denies Responsibility?
Employers and insurance companies don’t always accept liability for workplace-related dermatitis straight away. If they deny responsibility or there’s no valid insurance in place, your solicitor can:
- Investigate your employer’s safety procedures, risk assessments, and training records
- Review COSHH compliance and health surveillance processes
- Obtain independent medical reports linking your condition to your job
- Collect witness accounts and supporting evidence
- Take legal action on your behalf if needed
Detailed documentation — including medical reports, occupational health notes, and incident logs — can make a big difference to your claim’s success.
Who Can Make a Dermatitis Claim?
You may be able to claim compensation if your dermatitis was caused or made worse by:
- Prolonged exposure to harmful substances (like cleaning products, chemicals, solvents, oils, or dust)
- Poorly maintained or unsafe working environments
- Inadequate safety procedures, PPE, or COSHH controls
- Lack of risk assessments or proper training on safe handling of irritants
- Breaches of Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines
Eligible claimants include:
- Full-time or part-time employees
- Self-employed contractors
- Temporary, agency, or casual workers
- Former employees (if symptoms developed while you were employed)
As long as negligence or unsafe working practices contributed to your dermatitis, you could have a claim.
What Can You Claim for in a Dermatitis Case?
The value of your claim will depend on how severe your dermatitis is, how it affects your everyday life, and whether it’s likely to cause long-term or permanent issues. A successful claim can include compensation for:
- Medical expenses: GP visits, specialist dermatology treatment, prescriptions, creams, and therapy
- Lost earnings: For time off work or reduced hours due to your skin condition
- Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort, psychological effects, and long-term distress
- Care and assistance: If you’ve needed help with personal care, dressing, or daily activities
- Travel costs: Journeys to and from medical appointments or hospital visits
- Future loss of earnings: If your dermatitis affects your ability to work in the future or forces a career change
- Adaptations: Adjustments at home or in your workplace to reduce ongoing risks
We’ll make sure every aspect of your financial, physical, and emotional losses are accounted for in your claim.
Can You Claim on Behalf of a Family Member?
Yes — in certain situations, you can claim compensation on behalf of a family member who:
- Is under 18
- Is mentally incapacitated or unable to manage their own claim
- Has sadly passed away as a result of severe complications from dermatitis (though this is rare)
Family members may also be able to claim for financial dependency or care costs in some cases.
How Long Does a Dermatitis Claim Take?
The length of time needed to settle a dermatitis claim depends on:
- Whether the employer admits liability
- The complexity and severity of the condition
- How long it takes for medical evidence to be gathered and a prognosis confirmed
- Whether there are disputes over evidence or responsibility
Straightforward cases with clear medical evidence might settle within a few months. More complicated claims — especially those involving permanent scarring or disability — can take a year or more. We’ll keep you fully updated, guide you through every stage, and handle all legal matters on your behalf.
Are Dermatitis Claims More Complex Than Other Workplace Injury Cases?
They can be — mainly because:
- Dermatitis is a progressive condition that might develop over months or years
- Proving the link between your job and your dermatitis can require detailed medical reports
- Cases may involve multiple breaches of health and safety practices
- Long-term impacts, career limitations, and mental health effects often need to be considered
That’s why it’s so important to work with a solicitor experienced in occupational illness and dermatitis claims.
We’re Here to Support You
Dermatitis can cause far more than just irritation — it can affect your confidence, your ability to work, and your overall wellbeing. But you don’t have to face it alone.
Our specialist solicitors are here to:
- Support you through every step of your claim
- Help you access the right medical care, financial support, and workplace protection
- Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve to rebuild your life
Contact us today for your free, confidential consultation — and start your journey towards justice, recovery, and peace of mind.