[Skin protection. From TRGS 401 to guidelines on "occupational skin protection products"].

The technical standards for hazardous substances (TRGS) reflect the currently achievable technical safety, occupational-medical, hygienic and scientific standards for production, distribution and handling of hazardous substances. The TRGS 401 "Risks resulting from skin contact--determination, evaluation, measures" gives important information regarding occupational hazardous exposure of the skin and the measures for prevention. A definition for wet work is given under which occlusion by moisture impermeable protective gloves and contacts to wet environments are included. Both the TRGS 401 and the AWMF S1 guidelines on "Occupational protection products" place emphasis on the fact that the protective effectiveness of topical skin products for protection, care and cleansing should be proven by in vivo methods.