A recent University of Toronto study, in collaboration with the Occupational Cancer Research Center, Center for Research Expertise in Occupational Disease, and the Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre, shows that nail technicians in salons are exposed to several chemicals widely used as plasticizers and flame retardants.
The study, published Feb. 14 in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, found that exposure to some hazardous chemicals was higher among nail technicians than among electronic waste workers.
"We were very surprised to find exposures for some chemicals up to 30 times higher among nail salon workers relative to exposures in homes, and up to 10 times higher than in e-waste handling facilities," said co-author Miriam Diamond in a report.
The study reported higher exposures of several phthalate plasticizers, which was expected given the use of these chemicals in personal care products. One phthalate plasticizer, DEHP, which is not allowed for use in cosmetics under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, was found at low levels.
"The finding of low exposure to the plasticizer DEHP is important -- it shows the current regulations for this compound are working," Diamond said. However, what was unexpected was the finding of some high levels of flame retardants that are not known to be used in personal care products. These chemicals have been associated with adverse health effects including neurological and reproductive effects, with some evidence that in utero exposure may be important.
This study points to the need to consider the wide range of workplace settings when regulating chemical use in Canada. Study authors urge government and product manufacturers to make safer personal care products and safer spaces for workers and customers in the personal services sector.
"We are proud of the work we do, and we would like our workplaces to be safer," said Jackie Liang, nail technician and Community Health Worker at Parkdale Queen West Community Health Center.
