Independent Medical Assessment for Skin Checks
Get in touchAt Independent Medical Assessment , we provide impartial and professional evaluations for employees at risk of work-related skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and allergic reactions.
Skin conditions are among the most common occupational health issues in the UK and are often caused by exposure to substances like oils, solvents, cleaning products, and prolonged glove use.
Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002), employers must provide regular health surveillance for employees working with irritants and allergens.
Independent medical assessments ensure unbiased reporting, fair decision-making, and clear guidance on fitness for work.
Request a free quote for independent medical assessments today.
Why Are Independent Medical Assessments Needed for Skin Checks?
Work-related dermatitis can start as mild redness or dryness but may develop into painful, long-term conditions without early intervention.
Employers may request independent skin checks where impartiality is required, for example in disputes, ill-health retirement cases, or insurance claims.
An independent medical assessment provides an objective view of whether workplace exposure is affecting the employee’s skin health.
This ensures fairness and compliance while protecting both employees and employers.
What Are the Benefits of an Independent Medical Assessment for Skin Checks?
Independent assessments provide fairness, compliance, and reassurance.
Key benefits include:
Objective evaluation of whether skin problems are linked to work.
Compliance with COSHH regulations and workplace safety law.
Impartial advice on employee fitness and workplace restrictions.
Support in legal, employment, or insurance cases.
Protection of both employee wellbeing and employer liability.
How Much Do Independent Skin Check Assessments Cost?
The cost of skin check assessments is between £100 and £300 per case.
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether additional investigations are required.
Assessments requested for legal or insurance purposes may require more detailed reporting, which can increase costs.
We provide transparent quotes to ensure fairness for all parties involved.
What Does a Skin Check Assessment Involve?
Our skin assessments begin with a review of the employee’s health history, including any previous skin conditions or allergies.
Our independent medical assessors carries out a physical examination of the skin, especially on areas commonly affected such as the hands and forearms.
Employees may also be asked about work practices, PPE use, and symptom history.
The findings are compiled into a clear, impartial report with recommendations on fitness for work.
Who Requires Independent Medical Assessments for Skin Health?
Skin health assessments are required for employees exposed to skin irritants or allergens in their workplace.
This includes roles in healthcare, cleaning, catering, construction, hairdressing, printing, and engineering.
Independent assessments are particularly useful when there are disputes about whether symptoms are work-related.
They can also be requested by insurers, solicitors, or individuals seeking an unbiased medical opinion.
How Often Should Independent Skin Checks Be Carried Out?
The frequency of skin checks depends on workplace risk and the severity of symptoms.
In high-risk roles, skin surveillance is typically required every 3 to 6 months, while annual checks may be sufficient for lower-risk positions.
Independent medical assessments may also be requested on a one-off basis for legal or employment purposes.
Regular monitoring ensures early detection and fair evaluation of work-related conditions.
Are Independent Skin Check Assessments Confidential?
Confidentiality is guaranteed for all medical skin health assessments.
Employers and insurers do not receive detailed medical records.
Instead, they receive a clear outcome report stating whether the employee is fit, fit with restrictions, or unfit for duties involving skin hazards.
We ensure employee privacy while giving organisations the information they need to manage risk responsibly.
What Symptoms Should Employees Monitor Between Skin Checks?
Employees should be aware of early signs such as redness, itching, dryness, flaking, or cracking of the skin.
More advanced symptoms may include swelling, blistering, or painful sores.
Since dermatitis can worsen quickly with continued exposure, even mild changes should be reported.
Early intervention helps prevent long-term or chronic conditions from developing.
What Happens If an Employee Is Found Unfit for Work Due to Skin Problems?
If an independent assessor determines that an employee’s skin condition makes them unfit for work, they must be removed from exposure immediately.
The report may recommend redeployment, modified duties, or temporary leave until the skin recovers.
In some cases, referral to a GP or dermatologist may be advised for specialist treatment.
This protects the employee’s health while allowing the employer to manage risks responsibly.
What Records Must Employers Keep for Skin Surveillance?
Employers must maintain records for all staff undergoing occupational skin checks.
These records should include the date of each assessment, outcomes, and any restrictions or recommendations.
Health records must be kept for at least 40 years, since some occupational skin conditions may have long-term effects.
Independent medical assessments provide documentation that is objective and defensible in legal or regulatory situations.
Can Employees Refuse an Independent Skin Check?
Participation requires employee consent, as with any medical assessment.
If the role carries significant skin hazard risks, refusal may prevent the employee from continuing those duties.
Employers should explain that assessments are impartial, confidential, and designed to protect health.
This reassurance usually encourages employees to take part in the process.
How Do Independent Medical Assessments Differ from Routine Occupational Health Checks?
Routine occupational health checks are part of an employer’s ongoing duty of care and are usually carried out by their chosen provider.
Independent medical assessments are often requested when impartiality is required, such as in disputes, ill-health retirement cases, or insurance claims.
Our independent assessors have no connection to the employer or treating clinician, ensuring an unbiased opinion.
This makes independent assessments particularly valuable in contested situations
Request a Free Consultation for Medical Skin Assessments
At Independent Medical Assessment , we deliver impartial skin health evaluations that protect employees, support employers, and ensure legal compliance.
Our independent reports provide fair and transparent evidence in workplace, legal, and insurance settings.
Contact Independent Medical Assessment today get a free consultation and arrange a skin check assessment for your workforce.
Other Services We Offer
At Medical Surveillance, we offer a wide range of services; some of these include:
Independent Medical Assessment for Lead Exposure
Independent Medical Assessment for Asbestos
Independent Medical Assessment for Bakery Workers
Independent Medical Assessment for Benzene
Independent Medical Assessment for Radiation Workers
Independent Medical Assessment for Silica Exposure
Independent Medical Assessment for Formaldehyde
Independent Medical Assessment for COSHH
Independent Medical Assessment for Dermatitis
Independent Medical Assessment for Mental Health