Key Findings
Following a comprehensive life cycle and risk assessment conducted in this project, the following key findings are presented.
Environmental Impact and Resource Extraction
The production of thermal receipt paper is resource intensive, relying on petroleum-based products and wood pulp.
Manufacturing Hazards
The manufacturing process exposes workers to dangerous chemicals and particulate matter, potentially leading to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and long-term health complications.
Exposure to BPA and BPS
Throughout nearly all stages, both workers and consumers are exposed to BPA and BPS. This exposure is of particular concern for cashiers and retail employees, as these chemicals can disrupt endocrine functions.
Disposal Concerns
Thermal receipt paper is non-recyclable because of its chemical coating, leading to environmental concerns when disposed of in landfills or incinerated.
Risk Control Measures
While certain control measures, including PPE and engineering controls, are currently employed, significant room for improvement remains, particularly in the distribution and usage phases.
Barriers to Improvement
The adoption of safer alternatives and practices is impeded by economic costs, industry opposition, and a general lack of awareness. Given the minimal development in receipt paper technology, policies should aim at phasing them out and encouraging innovation in alternative mediums.
Takeaway Message
This life cycle and risk assessment reveals that thermal receipt paper poses a significant risk to workers throughout its entire lifespan. The most concerning aspects are:
- Chemical Exposure: Throughout the lifecycle, workers are exposed to harmful chemicals, such as BPA, BPS, and other volatile compounds. This exposure can result in respiratory conditions, skin disorders, and an increased risk of cancer.
- Exposure to BPA and BPS: Throughout nearly all stages, both workers and consumers are exposed to BPA and BPS. This exposure is of particular concern for cashiers and retail employees, as these chemicals can disrupt endocrine functions.
Control Measures
The current control measures, including PPE and training, seem inadequate to address the widespread health concerns. Here’s where improvement is needed:
- Substitution: Replace hazardous chemicals with safer alternatives, particularly BPA- and BPS-free paper or digital receipts.
- Engineering Controls: Implementing better ventilation systems and enclosed processing units to minimize exposure to dust, fumes, and hazardous chemicals.
- Biomonitoring: Regularly monitoring worker exposure levels through blood or urine tests to identify potential health risks early on.
Barriers & Facilitators
This project identifies the following key barriers and facilitators that impact the handling of risks related to thermal receipt paper:
Barriers: Cost of implementing stricter control measures, lack of awareness about health risks, and resistance to change from industries.
Facilitators: Growing public concern about BPA and BPS, stricter regulations on chemical use, and technological advancements in receipt printing and transaction technologies.