Indoor air quality and reported health symptoms among hair dressers in salons in Ibadan, Nigeria

IntroductionHairdressers are exposed to potentially hazardous chemical emissions during hair styling, cutting, coloring and washing; exposures potentially result in adverse health effects. Limited information on indoor air and environmental quality (IEQ) in salons in less developed countries exists, especially outside of Asia. This study assessed IEQ of hair salons in Ibadan North Local Government Area, Nigeria.MethodsThe study was a comparative cross-sectional design. Multi-stage sampling methods were used in selecting the study population in four study areas – Agbowo, Mokola, Yemetu and Bashorun – for two months between August–October 2015. Temperature, relative humidity (RH) and coarse respirable particulate matter (PM10) concentrations in 65 salons within Ibadan were monitored between 9:00–14:00, Monday–Saturday, using pDR-1500 particulate monitor. Total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) and carbon dioxide concentrations in parts per million (ppm) were determined using SPF-2000 TVOC meter, also between 9:00–14:00, Monday–Saturday. Values obtained were compared with available guideline limits. Information on workplace hazards, accidents and current illnesses was elicited from 260 consenting hairdressers using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using analysis of variance, T-test and Spearman correlation coefficients at p < 0.05.ResultsMean indoor temperature, RH and TVOC concentrations across sampling locations (28.5 ± 2.2 °C, 70.8 ± 6.9%, 20.1 ± 5.9 ppm; 28.2 ± 1.5 °C, 71.8 ± 5.7%, 17.3 ± 3.2 ppm; 28.3 ± 2.3 °C, 71.5 ± 8.1%, 14.6 ± 5.9 ppm; 28.7 ± 1.2 °C, 69.4 ± 3.5%, 15.5 ± 3.4 ppm) exceeded American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) indoor environmental guidelines of 25.5 °C, 65% and 3 ppm, respectively. It should also be noted hairdressing activities were reported being associated with respiratory symptoms and back, leg and shoulder pains.ConclusionIn hair salons in Ibadan, Nigeria, IEQ appeared compromised. Mechanical ventilation systems in beauty salons should be improved with respect to operation, filtration and maintenance to better maintain thermal comfort parameters and reduce levels of chemical pollutants emitted by occupants and product use during services.