Social Sustainability
Sensitizer
Definition
A sensitizer is a substance that, after initial exposure, causes some individuals to develop an allergic response — respiratory sensitisation (occupational asthma from isocyanates, flour dust, wood dust) or skin sensitisation (contact dermatitis from nickel, chromium, epoxy resins). Once sensitised, a person may react to minute exposures that affect no one else, making continued work with the substance impossible.
References
Overview
How it is used
The concept structures chemical risk assessment, occupational health surveillance, product labelling (GHS hazard statements H334/H317) and workplace substitution programmes.
Why it matters
Sensitizers end careers through invisible, permanent injury; their control is a core test of occupational hygiene.