Adverse reactions of workers to the use of personal protective equipment in pharmaceutical factories: A cross-sectional survey

• Six categories of adverse reactions in pharmaceutical factories were analyzed. • The association between PPE use and adverse reactions was determined. • There was a prevalence of respiratory symptoms (84%) and thermal discomfort (69%). Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as laboratory gowns, respiratory protective equipment, etc., is a common consumable in product manufacturing companies. While the protective efficacy of PPE for both individuals and products is well established, its use may also elicit adverse effects in wearers. To determine the prevalence of PPE-induced adverse reactions among workers in pharmaceutical factories, a cross-sectional study was analyzed using a logistic regression model. There was a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms (84%), thermal discomfort (69%), declining physique (41%), cardiovascular and cerebrovascular symptoms (34%), hindered daily behavior (31%), and dermal symptoms (24%). The respiratory symptoms were associated with wearing the KN95 mask (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.50, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.09-5.75). The thermal discomfort was associated with higher activity levels (AOR: 3.27, 95% CI: 1.19-8.97) and shorter interval of protective clothing replacement (AOR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.15-0.56). The cardiovascular and cerebrovascular symptoms were associated with wearing a gasproof mask (AOR: 3.38, 95% CI: 1.07-10.67) and goggles (AOR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.14-4.09). The findings contribute to a better understanding of the negative effects associated with PPE use, which may may facilitate the development of effective strategies to mitigate occupational health issues related to PPE.