Back ground: Hairdressing is a worldwide job, with predominantly female staffs of the younger age group, who are exposed to different physical and chemical hazards present in their work environment , which affect their health seriously.  However, there is no information regarding Ethiopian situation.

Objective: To assess self-reported work-related health symptoms and its determinant factors among hairdressers working in beauty salons of Nifas Silk Lafto Sub City, Addis Ababa.

Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using interviewer-administered, pre-tested, structured questionnaire prepared in English and translated to local language (Amharic), to assess 480 stratified, proportionately sampled hairdressers, from April 15 to June 15, 2015. Checklist was used to assess the work environment. Variables on socio-demographic characteristics, work-related symptoms, and preventive methods employed, work duration and conditions, and risk factors for ill health were collected after ethical clearance was obtained from Addis Ababa University, school of Public Health College of Health Sciences. Information collected was processed and analyzed using SPSS-version 20, Chi-x² test and P value was used to compare the values. Multivariate analysis and logistic regression was done for the risk factors.

Results: Musculoskeletal symptom (at least one symptom) was reported by 372 (77.5%) hairdressers. Back and foot/leg pain/discomfort was reported by the majority; 63% & 54.4% respectively. Uncomfortable body posture at work (AOR= 4.256 (95%CI = 2.544 – 7.119)), and non-use of ergonomic tools (AOR, 2.082 (1.148 –3.773)), were major factors associated with musculoskeletal symptom. Hand allergy/eczema was reported by 103 (21.5%) of hairdressers. Of whom 39(38%) of them were those who were engaged in hair washing activity   and 61 (59.2%) of them were those who worked more than 8 hours a day.  Prevalence of respiratory symptom (at least one symptom) was 207(43.1). Rhinitis (32%) and breathing difficulty at night (11%) were frequently reported symptoms. More than 22% of the hairdressers reported nasal symptom with hair spray and dye application/preparation.  Reproductive health problems were reported by 44% (n=25) of hairdressers.

Conclusions and recommendations: The study showed that the hairdressers suffer multiple health symptoms of multifaceted origin, which needs organized and coordinated intervention, yet the profession is neglected. Therefore, ensuring proper work organization and design, and safe work environment is recommended. Awareness Creation regarding musculoskeletal and respiratory symptom is emphasized.  Hence, preparing guideline on Occupational Health and Safety of hairdressers’ salon, and update of the training manual has paramount importance.