Characterizing Cleaners’ Exposures to Chemicals in Cleaning Products Using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Fingerprinting: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

Purpose: exposure to cleaning work has been associated with adverse effects on skin and the respiratory tract. However, quantitative data on exposure to chemicals among cleaning personnel are limited. We aimed to develop a new approach for cleaning chemical exposure quantification and to characterize cleaning personnel’s work environment. Methods: cleaning personnel (n = 12) from three workplaces participated. Personal air samples were collected with a 25 mm filter cassette containing an active adsorbent sample disc. Samples were analyzed with Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) in two ways, a fingerprint-based quantification and a nontarget screening to identify the range of chemicals. DataRAM pDR 1000AN was used to monitor particle peaks (1–10 μm). Additional information, such as glove use and health symptoms, was collected via questionnaires, diaries, and observations. Nasal patency was assessed using peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) pre- and postshift. Results: Chemical exposures varied within and between cleaning personnel and between workplaces. Fifty-five chemicals were identified across the air samples, 21 of which were also found in analyzed products. Constituents from spray products were more often detected than from nonspray products. Peak exposures to particles were identified during bathroom cleaning or spray use. Cleaning personnel with self-reported respiratory allergies had lower PNIF values than other cleaners (p = 0.016). Workplace observations indicate an extremely long duration of glove use. Conclusion: This study successfully implemented a GC–MS-based chemical analysis, showing high variation in both amounts and chemical ranges between cleaning personnel. Estimated air concentrations were low compared to the Swedish occupational exposure limits. Use of occlusive gloves was high.