The focus of the five Workshop sessions was stated in the Conference Program:

"The Workshop discussions will focus on specific research and public health opportunities for decreasing the burden of skin exposures to chemicals in both workplaces and the general environment. What are some of the steps that could be taken now or in the near future by researchers, teachers, occupational hygienists, physicians, employers, workers, site managers and others to effectively anticipate, identify, evaluate and control potentially harmful exposures to chemicals by the dermal route?"

As part of this discussion and as a product of the Workshop, the Conference Chair proposes that a list of “Opportunities to Take Effective Actions to Reduce the Burden of Harmful Exposures of Skin to Chemicals” be developed. This list could include the steps that are needed for Effective Actions and the Guidance that is available or needs to be developed in order to educate and support those attempting to take these Effective Actions.

This draft has been posted on the conference website prior to the conference.  It highlights many questions. Workshop session discussion leaders may choose to use relevant portions of this outline and the questions to guide discussion in their sessions.

Suggestions for improving this document and suggested answers to the questions will be appreciated at any time. This invitation is extended to those attending the Conference as well as any other interested person. Please send your input to ssoderholm@cdc.gov. This draft may be updated prior to the Conference in response to suggestions received.

After incorporating input from Workshop participants, a version of this document will be posted on the “permanent” Conference website as one product of the Conference.