Assessment of worker chemical exposures in California vape shops.

Introduction:
This text discusses a study on the potential chemical exposures in a vape shop worker environment. The study identified some exceedances of NIOSH RELs for diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione and recommended improving ventilation, limiting exposures to flavoring ingredients with recognized potential respiratory effects, and addressing workplace safety through an Injury and Illness Prevention Program.

Key Points:

* The study measured air concentrations of volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, flavoring chemicals, and nicotine in personal and/or area samples, analyzed components of e-liquids vaped during field visits, and assessed metals on surface wipe samples in 12 vape shops.
* Detections of the alpha-diketone butter flavoring chemicals diacetyl and/or 2,3-pentanedione were common in the headspace of purchased e-liquids, personal air samples, and area air samples.
* Two exceedances of recommended exposure limits for 2,3-pentanedione were measured in personal air samples.
* Other compounds detected in area and personal air samples included substitutes for diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione and compounds that may be contaminants or impurities.
* A large variety (82) of other flavoring chemicals were detected in area air samples.
* None of the 12 shops interviewed had a health and safety program, and six shops reported no use of any personal protective equipment.
* Study recommendations include making improvements to ventilation, hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and, if possible, avoiding products containing the alpha-diketone flavoring chemicals.

Main Message:
The study found that vape shop workers are at risk of exposure to harmful chemicals, including diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione, which can have negative respiratory effects. The study recommends that vape shop owners take steps to improve ventilation, implement health and safety programs, and provide personal protective equipment to their employees to reduce the risk of chemical exposure. It also highlights the need for further research on the long-term health risks associated with e-cigarette use and vape shop worker exposure.

Attfield KR, Zalay M, Zwack LM, Glassford EK, LeBouf RF, Materna BL. Assessment of worker chemical exposures in California vape shops. Journal of occupational and environmental hygiene. 2022;19(4):197-209. doi:10.1080/15459624.2022.2036341