Introduction Clinical databases provide useful information on occupational diseases including occupational skin diseases. Patch testing is an important tool in the diagnosis of occupational contact dermatitis. Patch test databases not only contain specific diagnostic information but also identify affected occupations and workplace characteristics allowing comparisons across industries and jobs. Additional workplace information can be added to gain insight into prevention activities.

Objectives To examine the diagnosis, common workplace allergens and prevention practices in workers seen for patch testing in a tertiary referral centre in Toronto, Canada.

Methods Demographic, clinical, patch test and workplace information were collected for patients seen between 2012 and 2019. Basic descriptive statistics were generated to compare workers in common industries and jobs.

Results Out 3714 patients evaluated, 1261 were diagnosed with occupational skin disease. Comparison across the healthcare, services, manufacturing, automotive and construction sectors revealed differences in diagnosis and causative agents, workplace characteristics and prevention practices. 308 health care workers included 154 nurses, 34 personal support workers, 28 dental workers and 22 cleaners. 90% had a diagnosis of occupational irritant contact dermatitis and 34% had occupational allergic contact dermatitis. Dental workers had the highest percentage of allergic contact dermatitis and higher proportions of occupationally relevant rubber (carba mix and thiuram) and methacrylate/acrylate positives on patch testing. They were more likely to work in a small workplace and less likely to take time off work, file a compensation claim or have health and safety training.

Conclusion Collection of detailed work-related descriptors and clinical information in a patch test database facilitates an understanding of the causative agents and the workplace characteristics that may place workers at increased risk for occupational skin disease, providing a focus for prevention activities.