Phthalates Exposure Assessment in Nail Technicians
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Abstract
Phthalates, semi-volatile organic compounds, are commonly used in a wide range of daily consumer products. Because phthalates are endocrine-disrupting substances, they can have widespread effects on the human body. This study aims to assess phthalate exposure among nail technicians due to contact with phthalates present in nail polishes, nail extension materials, and nail decoration products—particularly during filing and buffing processes. Dust contained phthalate was collected using vacuum devices equipped with dust collection bags. Three types of phthalates— Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) and Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The study assessed exposure through unintentional ingestion and dermal absorption of phthalate-containing dust. The study found that DBP was the most phthalate in nail salon (1384.9 ± 374.3 µg/g of dust) followed by DEHP (239.2 ± 164.4 µg/g of dust) and BBP (26.7 ± 12.5 µg/g of dust) respectively. The exposure assessment of phthalate revealed that the primary route of exposure is through unintentional ingestion. When compared to the reference doses established by EFSA and the US. EPA, the levels were found to be within acceptable limits. However, since phthalates can also be encountered in the general environment, minimizing exposure is essential for worker safety and health. This can be achieved through the use of phthalate-free products, the installation of air purifiers to reduce dust, maintaining workplace hygiene, and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment during work etc.
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