Tuesday, November 4, 2025

Two national “haut+job” campaign weeks highlight skin cancer prevention and hand eczema awareness in the workplace

Occupational skin diseases continue to rank among the most common recognized work-related illnesses in Germany. Two conditions are particularly prominent: non-melanoma skin cancer caused by UV radiation and hand eczema due to frequent wet work. With the nationwide “haut+job” campaign weeks, the German Dermatologists’ Association (BVDD) is for the first time addressing both conditions in two dedicated awareness weeks – taking place in November 2025 and January 2026.

From November 10 to 16, 2025, the focus will be on occupational skin cancer (BK 5103). Employees who regularly work outdoors are entitled to free occupational medical skin cancer screenings. This so-called “offer-based medical check-up” is mandated by the German Occupational Health Care Regulation (ArbMedVV). Employers must inform their outdoor staff – such as construction workers, landscapers, farmers, postal workers, and public service employees – about this right and offer the examination at regular intervals.

The regulation applies to workers who, between April and September, spend at least one hour outdoors during working hours on 50 or more days per year (or two hours if working in the shade). The screening can be taken every three years and includes a consultation, examination, and, if necessary, referral to a dermatologist.

The urgency is evident in the data: according to the German Statutory Accident Insurance (DGUV), around 7,800 suspected cases of occupational skin cancer were reported in 2024 – a significant increase compared to previous years.

Second Awareness Week in January 2026

From January 19 to 25, 2026, attention will shift to occupational hand eczema (BK 5101) – another leading condition in occupational health statistics. The DGUV recorded over 14,000 suspected cases in 2024 alone. Those most affected include healthcare workers, hairdressers, hospitality staff, cleaners, and metalworkers – professions that involve frequent contact with water, cleaning agents, or chemicals.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of prevention measures and strengthen reporting practices in workplaces to ensure early intervention before skin diseases become chronic.

Comprehensive Campaign Resources

For both campaign weeks, the BVDD provides extensive educational material – including posters, flyers, and video resources – as well as a central online platform at www.haut-und-job.de. The campaign is supported by a targeted social media initiative on Instagram and LinkedIn to reach both professionals and affected employees directly.

A European Initiative for Healthy Skin at Work

“haut+job” is part of the European initiative “Healthy Skin@Work”, led by the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV). Its mission: to reduce the number of occupational skin diseases and to improve workplace skin protection across Europe.

Conclusion: With “haut+job,” dermatologists across Germany are sending a strong signal for prevention, awareness, and skin health at work.