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Med. Pr. 2001;52(6)

New sources of occupational exposure in modified or new technological processes

Nowe źródła narażenia zawodowego, występujące w modyfikowanych lub nowych procesach technologicznych

P. Kostrzewski

Abstract

Mixtures of organic solvents with frequently changing composition are employed in many industries. It is true that dangerous solvents are eliminated from the work environment, but simultaneously new manufacturing techniques are implemented.Glues, varnishes and stains, containing chemicals of unknown toxicity and non-recognized effects on the human body are extensively used in the footwear and furniture industries.
The aim of our study was to identify new sources of occupational exposure. The testswere performed in plants of selected industries. Samples of glues, varnishes and wood stains were collected to glass vials (10 ml).The air-tight vials were kept at the temperature of +2°C to +8°C until removed for the analysis. After incubation period (T = 24°C; t = 1 h), 100 ľl of gas phase was removed with gas-tight syringe. Organic solvents were identified by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry detection (GC/MSD).
The following classes of organic compounds were detected in glues,varnishesand stains under study: alkanes, cycloalkanes, alcohols, ketones, esters, aromatic hydrocarbons and their numerous alkyl derivatives.
The tests confirmed that glues, varnishes and stains contained chemicals with poorly recognized or totally unknowntoxicity and toxicokinetics; MAC values were set for only few of them.

Key words

occupational exposure, technological processes, mixtures of organic solvents