Copyright

(c) 2010-2024 Jon L Gelman, All Rights Reserved.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Electronic Gadget Dermatitis Maybe the Next Latex Allergy in the Workplace

The genesis of the next epidemic of a mass tort is often the workplace where occupational exposures frequently occur at an alarming rate for lack of adequate safety measures. Emerging research has associated an allergic reaction to metal in electronic gadgets such as cell phones, iPads (tablets) and computer laptops. These items have become an unavoidable staple of the workplace and maybe the cause of contact dermatitis and more serious and sometimes fatal systemic allergic reactions.

It has been a few of decades since US Surgeon General Everett Koop issued a warning that unless health and safety workers utilized latex gloves they would be exposed to and spread the HIV virus. The nightmare of latex allergy engulfed the workers compensation system and soon avoidance alone could not prevent total and permanent disability claims following a massive wave of litigation in courts of compensation and in the product liability arena. The residuals continue to this date.

The cycle again maybe repeating as multiple research sources are reporting allergic reactions to new technology. These conditions tend to begin as contact dermatitis issues and them bloom into life threatening systemic reactions. No wonder why Fidbit recalled its latest wearable tracking device so quickly and universally.

Allergic reactions to nickel in some gadgets have been noticed for a while. Now, a medical journal report suggests a possible link between rashes and exposure to nickel in Apple's iPads......Dermatologists have, for some time, examined a connection between the presence of nickel -- a common metal allergen -- in some gadgets and allergic reactions.

Click here to read the complete article.
….
Jon L. Gelman of Wayne NJ is the author of NJ Workers’ Compensation Law (West-Thompson-Reuters) and co-author of the national treatise, Modern Workers’ Compensation Law (West-Thompson-Reuters). For over 4 decades the Law Offices of Jon L Gelman  1.973.696.7900  jon@gelmans.com  have been representing injured workers and their families who have suffered occupational accidents and illnesses.