Health-hazard evaluation report HETA 89-138-2215, Chapple Hair Styling Salon, gGarfield Heights, Ohio

In response to a request from the owner/operator of the Chapple Hair Styling Salon (SIC-7231), Garfield Heights, Ohio, an investigation was made into possible respiratory problems associated with exposure to hair care products. The salon employed 33 persons including 25 full and part time cosmetologists. A medical review of the staff indicated that four individuals reported a history of physician diagnosed asthma, three of which had been so diagnosed prior to employment at the salon. At least two symptoms consistent with a diagnosis of current asthma were reported by 13 of the employees. Eight of the 13 reported symptoms associated with the use of hare care products, hair sprays being the most frequent offending agent. The only major chemical compound identified during general area air sampling was ethanol (64175). Ammonia (7664417) was the only chemical ingredient of permanent wave products to be detected in quantifiable concentrations with the highest concentration being 3.1 parts per million. The authors conclude that there were no exposures higher than existing industrial evaluation criteria would allow; however, it may be that using the industrial criteria for a hair salon is inappropriate. The authors recommend that the amount of outdoor air being circulated be increased.