Occupational Awareness of Airborne Microplastics in the Dry-Cleaning and Laundry Industry

Workers in dry-cleaning and laundry shops routinely handle large volumes of synthetic garments that shed airborne microplastics, potentially creating an underrecognized occupational exposure in this small-business sector. Despite growing concern about microplastics in environmental health research, little is known about their recognition as an occupational hazard among service-sector workers. This pilot study assessed awareness and knowledge of microplastics among dry-cleaning and laundry workers in Philadelphia and examined their associations with workplace protective practices. We collected information on workplace characteristics, microplastics awareness, knowledge, and personal protective equipment (PPE) use from 34 self-employed workers. Approximately one-third of participants had heard of microplastics, and those who were aware demonstrated higher knowledge scores (median: 71) than those who were unaware (median: 27). However, neither awareness nor knowledge was associated with PPE use. These findings suggest that microplastics remain an overlooked occupational hazard and underscore the need for enhanced occupational health education and worker protection efforts.