Aim: Temporary employment companies and job training facilities are responsible for roughly two thirds of all occupational skin diseases reported to the Verwaltungs-Berufsgenossenschaft (VBG). The aim of this study is to identify employees at increased risk for occupational skin diseases in temporary employment companies and job training facilities and to develop specific preventive measures. Method: In 2004 389 cases of occupational skin diseases were reported by temporary employment companies and job training facilities. Out of these a random sample of 90 cases was analysed. Data on patient profile, diagnosis and workplace preventive measures were evaluated. Results: Cases of allergic contact dermatitis were reported most frequently (64 % in temporary employment companies, 59 % in job training facilities). Occupational skin diseases were mainly reported by dermatologists (91 % and 81 % respectively). Occupational physicians did not report any occupational skin diseases and they were rarely involved in occupational disease procedures (temporary employment companies 6 cases (10 %); job training facilities 1 case (3 %)). Preventative medical examinations according to the guideline G 24 were conducted in just 2 cases (job training facilities). Production helpers are at a higher risk for occupational skin diseases than other workers in temporary employment companies (OR 2.6; 95 %-CI 1.51—4.49). Conclusions: Due to the heterogeneity of work environments in temporary employment companies it is difficult to develop jobspecific prevention programs. For employees in work environments where the skin is at risk, preventative medical examinations according to the guideline G 24 have to be conducted and instructions in occupational skin protection must be given. Production helpers need to be given special attention with respect to skin protection. Occupation-specific skin awareness programs (“skin protection days”) are a promising prevention strategy for job training facilities. Employers, company physicians and accident insurance institutions need to make more effort to prevent occupational skin diseases.