Epoxy pipe relining—an emerging contact allergy risk for workers

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Abstract
Background. Epoxy pipe relining is a method of repairing old and worn water pipes supplying households. The method, using epoxy resin systems (ERSs), involves creating a new pipe inside an existing pipe. Large amounts of epoxy are normally handled at small, temporary worksites.Objectives. To describe working conditions and contact allergies to ERSs in 8 patients with occupational contact dermatitis related to their work in the relining trade.Methods. Eight patients with suspected work‐related eczema in the relining trade were referred to our Occupational and Environmental Dermatology outpatient unit. They were examined and patch‐tested between August 2010 and May 2011.Results. Seven patients were patch test‐positive to ERSs, and 6 of 8 reacted to the epoxy resin (MW 340) in the baseline series. Five of the patients were patch test‐positive to their own work products. Seven of the cases had to leave the relining trade because of skin problems.Conclusions. Relining is a widely used alternative to replacing old pipes, and entails a risk of massive skin exposure to ERSs and consequently a high risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis. Further mapping of working methods and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial to reduce hazardous skin exposure.

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