Linking environmental regulations to the prevention of chronic health damage among lithographic printers

Exposure to toxic cleanup solvents used in lithographic printing can harm the health of workers who use these chemicals and pollute the environment. Safer alternatives to these solvents have been developed in response to improved environmental regulations in Southern California. We conducted a project to protect lithographic printers from chronic health damage by promoting safer alternatives for toxic cleanup solvents. The project was conceived of and funded by the California Department of Health Services' Hazard Evaluation System and Information Service. An industrial hygienist: (1) observed the use of cleanup solvents in lithographic printing at a convenience sample of worksites that had converted to safer substitutes and at some that had not; (2) interviewed employers, workers, employee representatives, and key informants about the use of cleanup solvents, safer alternatives, and knowledge of the health hazards; (3) estimated the population of lithographic printers at risk of exposure to hazardous cleanup solvents, and barriers and incentives to the use of safer substitutes; (4) collaborated with union representatives, and local, state, and federal government agencies to conduct a workshop promoting safer alternatives; (5) initiated a project conducted by the Institute for Research and Technical Assistance to demonstrate safer alternatives at two or more printers; and (6) analyzed, compiled, and disseminated the information collected in a report. The findings of the project including recommendations to promote the adoption of safer substitutes as a means to protect workers and the environment will be presented.