Male cleaning staff have a 45% higher risk of death than office workers, according to a study by the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. The study, which examined the mortality rates of male and female cleaning staff over a period of ten years, found that male cleaners were at a significantly higher risk of death than those in low-risk professions. The reasons for this are unclear, but the study’s lead author, Laura van den Boore, suggested that the constant exposure to dust, mould, moisture and cleaning chemicals may be a contributing factor. The study analysed mortality data from around 200,000 men and 60,000 women in different professions, and found that female cleaners had a 16% higher risk of death than office workers.
In addition to the increased mortality rates, cleaning staff are also more likely to suffer from respiratory illnesses. The study was unable to determine whether the increased risk of death was due to the cleaning chemicals themselves or other factors, such as the way they are used or combined with other products. Van den Borre suggested that the way in which cleaning products are used may be a factor, and advised cleaning staff to wear gloves, masks and protective eyewear when using cleaning products. She also warned against combining cleaning products, as this can create dangerous chemicals.
The study found that cleaning staff in private households were at greater risk than those in industrial or commercial settings, possibly because industrial cleaners are more aware of the risks and take greater precautions. The study’s findings highlight the need for greater awareness of the risks associated with cleaning chemicals, and for measures to be taken to protect the health of cleaning staff.
