The Perception and Knowledge of the Use of Plastic Paneling, and Safety Precautions among Suppliers, Builders and Home Tenants in Kumasi

The Perception and Knowledge of the Use of Plastic Paneling, and Safety Precautions among Suppliers, Builders and Home Tenants in Kumasi

The view of plastic paneling varies greatly across the world and this reflects attitudes to the many different compounds employed in producing these materials and liberated from them during usage. There is therefore exposure via inhalation to chemicals such as Volatile Organic Compounds (benzene, toluene and formaldehyde used as polymerization solvents) and additives such as plasticizers (di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)) which leach at environmental conditions and have toxic properties. Dioxins; known carcinogens, are also released when PVC is accidentally burnt or incinerated during disposal. To ascertain awareness of possible chemical hazards associated with the use of plastic paneling, a structured questionnaire was used to interview a total of 60 respondents- 20 suppliers, 20 builders and 20 homeowners/tenants in the Kumasi metropolis..