Used clothing treatment practices and safety among traders in the Cape Coast Metropolis

This study aimed at exploring treatment practices and protective measures used clothing traders observe to ensure safety in handling of the used clothing. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used to reach ten (10) used clothing traders. Structured interview schedule and observation checklist were the main instruments used to collect data. The mixed method approach was adopted to collect and analyse data. The results of the study indicated traders sorted out the used clothing into categories often than stain removal, repairing, washing and ironing before sale. Dusting (40%) and repair/alteration (30%) were the most observed treatments traders performed. The use of apron, hand washing and use of sanitizers were basic protective measures observed. Key safety measures such as use of hand gloves, eye protection devices, nose and mouth masks were ignored by the traders. The study concludes that possible health risks were found not to be under control hence, the need for public education.