Labour Research July 2008

Health & Safety Matters

Solvent can cause fertility problems

Men working as painters and decorators who are exposed to glycol ethers are more likely to have fertility problems, according to occupational hygienists based at three universities.

Scientists found that men who work with solvents such as glycol ether have a 2.5 fold increased risk of a low sperm count. Glycol ethers are widely used in many products including water-based paints.