ADVERSE HEALTH EFFECTS OF GLUTARALDEHYDE AND ITS RELATION TO WORKPLACE SAFETY MEASURES AND WORK PRACTICES OF HEALTH CARE WORKERS

Introduction: Glutaraldehyde (GA) is a broad-spectrum biocidal agent for high level disinfection of heat sensitive equipments. It is widely used in hospitals especially in endoscopy units. Aim of work: This study aimed to identify adverse health effects of GA and to determine the impact of workplace safety measures and work practices on occurrence and severity of such health effects among health care workers (HCWs) at Ain Shams University hospitals. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted including 160 HCWs from different departments of Ain Shams University hospitals divided into two groups according to exposure to GA, exposed group (No=80) and unexposed group (No =80). Both groups were interviewed using a structured questionnaire in addition to clinical examination and spirometry. An observational checklist was used to evaluate workplace safety measures where GA solution has been used and work practices of the exposed HCWs. Results: Exposed HCWs had a significantly higher frequency of nasal, lower respiratory tract, ocular, skin, headache and other symptoms than unexposed group. They also showed impairment of Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) which was significantly correlated to the years spent in the current occupation and the daily work hours. Regarding workplace safety measures in areas where GA was used, the availability of effective general ventilation systemwith Air Change per Hour (ACH) > 15, automatic washer and specific area for GAdisinfection had a significant effect in reduction of some adverse health effects. Unsafe work practices were associated with some adverse health effects of GA. Conclusion: Exposure to GA may lead to many adverse health effects and applying workplace safety measures together with adopting safe work practices can reduce such risks.