We are conducting a pilot study to assess occupational exposures and subsequent health risks to workers in Boston neighborhood hair salons that serve primarily African-Americans. Our findings are being used to provide information to hairdressers such that methods to reduce their exposure to potentially harmful products are developed. We designed and conducted a survey of salon workers in three neighborhoods in Boston, Massachusetts. Our survey documented the most frequently performed procedures, the products used for these procedures and potential exposures. We also assessed the health status of the workers and did a qualitative assessment of indoor air quality in the salon. An extensive literature review of the toxicity of the documented products (and the individual chemicals in them) is being conducted. The exposure information from the survey is being compiled with the toxicological data to identify the possible health risks to the workers. Preliminary results indicate that relaxing and coloring of hair are the most frequently performed procedures (barring shampooing and conditioning) in these salons. The most relevant exposure pathways to these products are dermal, inhalation and incidental ingestion. The toxicological assessment is currently being conducted. The emerging concerns are allergic reactions and irritation of the mucous membranes. We conclude that the salon workers in our study are subjected to a variety of exposures in the workplace, the majority of which comes from exposure to hair relaxers and hair coloring agents. The consequences of these exposures on their health are being assessed.
Learning Objectives: please add minority health as a key-word in addition to the ones that are already checked if possible
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.