Antibacterial cleaning products may create health problems

Background: Surveillance of work-related asthma (WRA) in four states revealed that cleaning products were associated with 12% of WRA cases, and occurred in hospitals, schools and hotels. Cleaning workers have been found to have an increased risk of asthma in studies from the US, Europe, Australia, Brazil and South Africa. Nevertheless, use of antibacterials is increasing in the US in response to fears of nosocomial infections in hospitals, norovirus outbreaks, and pandemic flu. Methods: OHSP worked with partners inside MDPH and in the community to develop interventions to address problems associated with antibacterials. This presentation will discuss the role of NIOSH funded surveillance of WRA, participation in the statewide Massachusetts Asthma Collaborative, work with School Health (MDPH), and with partners in cosmetology, COSH groups, unions, state purchasing offices, and colleagues, to guide cleaning in schools. Results: Collaboration with partners has been important in finding opportunities to change cleaning practices and avoid inappropriate use of antibacterials. MassCOSH and SEIU 615, with help from technical advisers, were successful in eliminating a hazardous antibacterial product used to clean bathrooms at Logan Airport, and increasing the attention to training. Telephone meetings between INFORM, the Toxics Use Reduction Institute and consultants to schools are informing the development of materials for schools about purchasing and using safer products. Conclusions: To counteract fear messages about “germs everywhere,” it is necessary to analyze products and work with partners to promote healthier practices that reduce the risk of asthma for cleaning workers and coworkers.