Skin Barrier Impairment due to the Occlusive Effect of Firefighter Clothing

Abstract

At fire scenes, firefighters are exposed to potentially harmful substances. Besides inhalation of these products, also skin contamination and the risk of dermal absorption is getting more attention. In this perspective, skin barrier impairment due to the occlusive effect of firefighter clothes could enhance the risk of penetration of hazardous substances. The effect of a firefighter jacket and cellophane on the skin was studied in a paired comparison involving 16 volunteers. Biophysical parameters were measured before, immediately after and 30 min after ending the occlusion. Reflectance confocal microscopy was used to study the skin morphology. Immediately after wearing a firefighter jacket, Transepidermal Water Loss values were significantly increased. This is an indication of an occlusive effect of the firefighter jacket. The skin barrier was fully restored after 30 min after occlusion with cellophane or wearing a firefighter jacket.