O-172 Occupational Exposure, Respiratory Symptoms and Hand Eczema of Nail Artists in Sweden: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction Nail artists are occupationally exposed to chemical hazards, e.g. products containing acrylates which may cause asthma and eczema. The aim of this study was therefore to survey occupational exposure, respiratory symptoms, and hand eczema among nail artists in Sweden. Methods A questionnaire focusing on occupational exposure conditions, respiratory symptoms, and hand eczema was sent to 532 nail artists in Sweden and the participation rate was 21%. The study was approved by the Regional Ethical Review Board in Stockholm. Results The majority of respondents (96%) had been working as nail artists for more than 2 years. More than 60% worked as nail artists at least 21 hours per week. The 12-month prevalence for respiratory symptoms and hand eczema were 51% and 24%, respectively. Every third respondent had a colleague who had changed occupations due to respiratory symptoms or eczema. All respondents seemed to use local exhaust ventilation at work. Many nail artists also used personal protective equipment (PPE), e.g. about 60% used surgical masks, 66% used rubber gloves and 14% used PVC gloves. Discussion Nail artists had higher incidence of respiratory symptoms and hand eczema than the general population despite the use of local exhaust ventilation. PPE was used by more than 50% of the nail artists. However, the selected PPE does not provide sufficient protection against e.g. acrylates. Conclusion Although several precautions had been taken by the nail artists, they seemed to be exposed to irritant and/or allergic substances, e.g. acrylates, since many of them experienced respiratory symptoms as well as hand eczema.