£44,000 in compensation for dermatitis

A hospital worker who developed painful dermatitis through being made to repeatedly use a strong alcohol-based hand rub has received £44,000 in compensation. She was eventually forced to leave her job as a lead healthcare assistant because the skin on her hands became so sensitive to the alcohol rub she developed painful reoccurring sores. Her doctor diagnosed her with dermatitis and said it was likely caused by the alcohol rub at her work, which was far too strong for repetitive use. Despite being prescribed several types of steroid cream during the next two years, and periods off on sick leave, the dermatitis would return every time she went back to work. The hospital trust was aware of the problem with her hands but nothing was done to address the cause. She was eventually medically retired. The NHS Trust admitted liability and settled the claim out of court.