A survey of respiratory and dermatological disease in the chrome plating industry in the West Midlands, UK

Between 1993-1995 a cross-sectional survey of 20 chrome plating companies in the West Midlands was undertaken to assess the prevalence of respiratory and dermatological disease in platers. By means of a questionnaire and clinical examination 71 platers were examined of whom 23% were found to have dermatitis at the time of the visit and 45% of companies had at least one case of dermatitis in their plating workforce. Twenty-three per cent of platers had evidence of old chrome ulceration and 13% had evidence of new and healing chrome ulcers. When the nasal passages of platers were examined 17% had inflammation and 14% had septal perforation. Those with perforations were aged less than 35 years at the time of perforation which had usually occurred in the first 10 years of exposure. Lower respiratory symptoms were rare. Guidance on the prevention of disease in this occupational group which does not always have ready recourse to experienced occupational medical advice will be discussed.