Print workers exposed to organic solvents could be twice as likely to suffer from low sperm counts, a report from the University of Alberta has claimed.

Dr Nicola Cherry of the Universitys Department of Public Health Sciences researched the correlation between men attending fertility clinics and their exposure to organic solvents.

Men exposed to high levels of organic compounds were almost three times more likely to suffer from inactive sperm, with printers, painters, decorators and builders at the highest risk.

The report states: Exposure to organic solvents at work was associated with a clinically important reduction in count of mobile sperm. This hypothesis was supported, with a clear increase in risk at higher intensity of exposure.

However, the study failed to illuminate which organic solvents are most hazardous, or the exact way they affect the body, and called for more research into the area. It is also unclear whether all or just some solvents carry with them a degree of risk.

British Coatings Federation chief executive Moira McMillan said: Theres a huge study going on in this area at the moment, its a phenomenon that no one really understands. We are certainly keeping an eye on the issue.

The industry takes great pride in the safety of its products, there hasnt been a study linking this with any particular products.

The study used data from 1,200 Canadian manual workers between 1972 and 1991. Cherry is currently working on a study in Britain to find out which solvents are the most harmful.

There was a similar scare related to phthalates found in plastic packaging and some printing inks in the summer of 1996.

Story by John Davies