Dry cleaning industry in the city of Colombo, Sri Lanka: a preliminary study of chemicals used and possible health effects

Abstract

Introduction This study was conducted to assess the occupational health and safety of workers of dry cleaning industry in Colombo. Method A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 24 dry-cleaners from 15 randomly selected dry cleaning establishments in Colombo Municipal area. A group of 24 shop workers from the same area comparable with respect to age, marital status, educational level and duration of service, served as a comparison group. A structured observational schedule and an interviewer administered questionnaire were used to collect data. Results Fourteen (93.3%) establishments used Perchloroethylene (PERC). Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) were not available in 80% and storage was unsatisfactory in 60%. Fire safety (100%), lighting (100%) and ventilation (73.3%) were satisfactory in a majority while thermal environment (73.3%) and noise levels (100%) were unsatisfactory. Except for clothing (53.5%), welfare facilities were satisfactory in a majority (86.7%) of establishments. Among the workers, irritation of skin (p=0.000), eyes including tearing (p=0.004) and sneezing (p=0.032) were significantly higher than controls. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) were provided for 14 (58.33%) workers and only 5 (35.71%) used them. Conclusion Acute symptoms related to chemical exposure were significantly higher among workers in dry cleaning industry. Overall work environment in these establishments was unsatisfactory.