Prevalence of cement eczema in Denmark before and since addition of ferrous sulfate to Danish cement

Abstract

This is a study of the prevalences of chromate allergy and hand eczema among workers engaged in the manufacture of pre-fabricated concrete building components in Denmark in 1981 and again in 1987. In September 1981 the chromate content of cement manufactured and sold in Denmark was reduced to not more than 2 ppm (parts per million) of water-soluble chromate. This was accomplished by adding ferrous sulfate, thus increasing the cost of the cement by about 1%. There was a statistically significant decrease in the prevalence of chromate allergy and hand eczema following the addition of ferrous sulfate, but there was no change in the frequency of skin irritation. The economic benefit of adding ferrous sulfate was demonstrated by a decrease in the need for dermatological services and topical steroid treatment. Cement eczema as a result of chromate allergy is a common occupational dermatitis among workers in the building and construction industries and a reduction in the chromate content of cement would appear to be a reasonable preventive measure in areas where there is a large concentration of construction industries.