Skin rashes due to allergic reaction to the fabric of uniforms, which contain potentially carcinogenic formaldehyde, have been reported by Nurses in several hospitals across Wales and Scotland.

The allergic reaction was caused due to formaldehyde resin, used to make the tunics crease-resistant, Gwynne Lyons, a leading toxin expert from Government's Advisory Committee on Hazardous Substances until recently, said.

The Independent quoted Dr Lyons, director of the Chemicals, Health and Environment Monitoring Trust, as saying, "But there is also a bigger picture, in that many experts consider that formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen when inhaled over time. Therefore, whenever possible, it is high time that safer substances were used instead of formaldehyde."

It was further reported that clothes manufacturers use the chemical in clothes to prevent creasing and mildew during transit. The Health and Safety Executive warn workers that it can cause skin, eye, and nose and throat irritation. Long-term exposure to high levels has been linked with nasal and lung cancer.

It was also revealed by the reports that alternative uniforms are being made available to nurses in Wales while the problem is investigated. (With Inputs from Agencies)