Self-reported health symptoms and injuries among drycleaners

Background: Approximately 204,820 drycleaners are employed within the US, many are at great risk for being exposed to chlorinated solvents, including Perchlorethylene (PERC). Several studies have demonstrated an association between exposure to chlorinated solvents and renal disease, cancer, neuropathies and hearing loss in drycleaners. Approximately 85% of drycleaners continue to use PERC. Drycleaners are also subjected to a fast paced work environment and encounter many ergonomic risks thus increasing risk for musculoskeletal injuries. Objectives: The purpose of the study was to identify the most common health symptoms associated with chemical exposure and injuries among workers in the drycleaning industry. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 198 drycleaners from the American Midwest. The survey included validated questions on occupational exposures, demographic and job characteristics, symptoms and injuries, and health behaviors. Results: The participants were mid-aged (mean age= 46years), male (58%), and Korean-Americans (84%) with extended experience in the drycleaning sector (mean=11 years).. About 67% sustained at least one occupational injury and 42% of reported at least one symptom related to chemical exposure. The most common injuries were burns (49.2%) followed by fatigue/ heat exhaustion (30.4%) and low back injury (18.8%). The most common health symptoms related to chemical exposure include headache (42.2%), nose irritation (36.6%), and throat irritation (33.1%). Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of occupational injuries and health symptoms among drycleaners. Interventions targeted at reducing incidence of burns and fatigue are needed. Health symptoms from chemical exposure are common among drycleaners, suggesting the need for protection from chemicals.