OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH RISKS OF HAIRDRESSERS: KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICE AND SELF-REPORTED SYMPTOMS

Abstract

Introduction: Hairdressing is associated with exposure to various harmful conditions which may be chemical, physical and ergonomic. Proper knowledge of hazardous exposures leads to reduction of adverse health outcomes. Hairdressing has been linked with several self- reported symptoms as respiratory, allergic and musculoskeletal complaints. Aim of work: To measure the knowledge of hairdressers regarding hazardous work exposures, safe work practices, in addition to describe the possible work-related symptoms experienced by them. Materials and methods: This is a cross sectional study including 200 male hairdressers working in this career for not less than 2 years. A self-administrated questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and occupational data, description of the workplace safety measures, their knowledge regarding effects of hazardous work exposures. Complaints of any symptoms were also included related to respiratory, allergic reactions and skin problems. Results: Mean knowledge score of the study population was 4.65 ± 1.8 with the highest percentage of them reporting their knowledge of being at risk of musculoskeletal disorders and electrical injuries. Best practice was for wearing personal protective devices, washing hands after handling chemicals and before eating. A significant association was found between mean knowledge score and attending training courses. Moreover, a significant association was found between mean work duration and reporting chest symptoms and between mean working hours per day and skin allergic and musculoskeletal complaints. Conclusion: The poor knowledge of the possible health effects due to work exposures and the increased frequency of self-reported symptoms necessitate dissemination of general safety guidelines and offering more training courses to this occupational sector.