Ethylene oxide - 276 entries found

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1991

CIS 91-1479 García Herrera A., Puig Troncoso J.
Ethylene oxide: Hazards and preventive measures in sterilisation activities
Oxido de etileno: Riesgos y medidas de prevención en las operaciones de esterilización [in Spanish]
Training manual and information note. Contents: properties and uses of ethylene oxide (EO); effects on health; medical surveillance of workers exposed to EO; fire and explosion hazards; chemical reactivity of EO; exposure limits (40-hr ACGIH limit adapted to a Chilean work-week of 48hrs: 0.8ppm = 1.4mg/m³); use of EO in sterilisation (environmental factors, gas concentration, stages of the sterilisation process, ventilation, consequences of insufficient ventilation); preventive methods, first aid and emergencies.
Asociación Chilena de Seguridad, Casilla 14565, Correo Central, Santiago, Chile, Aug. 1991. 40p. Illus. 25 ref.

1990

CIS 93-1156 Ethylene oxide in hospitals
Oxido de etileno en hospitales [in Spanish]
The use for sterilisation purposes of ethylene oxide (EO) is analysed from various points of view: adequate design of locales; types of equipment; correct installation of equipment; methods of work where EO is used; environmental controls; gas detection apparatus; personal protection; emergency plans.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, C/Torrelaguna, 73 - 28027 Madrid, Spain, ca.1990. Videotape (17min).

CIS 93-426 Ethylene oxide handling in hospital
Ethylenoxid im Krankenhaus [in German]
Safety guide intended to hospital workers handling ethylene oxide. Contents: identification and hazard classification, chemical and toxicological properties, sterilisation processes, safe work practices, periodic control and maintenance of the installations, storage of containers, fire prevention, first aid.
Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt, Abteilung für Unfallverhütung und Berufskrankheitenbekämpfung, Adalbert-Stifter-Strasse 65, 1200 Wien, Austria, 1990. 12p. Illus.

CIS 91-1640 Payne M.P., Delic J.I., Bell G.M.
Ammonia; 1-Chloro-2,3-epoxypropane (Epichlorohydrin); Carcinogenicity of cadmium and its compounds
Toxicity review of ammonia (NH₃): main effect is concentration-dependent irritation or corrosion of mucous membranes; at concentrations above 1000ppm NH₃ may be lethal in animals; chronic exposure at 100ppm or more may produce severe lesions in animals; in humans accidental exposure to high concentrations (>200ppm) may lead to severe respiratory tract, lung and eye damage and even death; at <200ppm reported effects in humans include skin, eye and upper respiratory tract irritation; no clear evidence of genotoxic, carcinogenic or embryotoxic effects. Toxicity review of 1-chloro-2,3-epoxypropane (epichlorohydrin, ECH), a colourless, volatile liquid at room temperature with a chloroform-like odour: moderate toxicity and irritation effects, with little or no evidence for genotoxic, carcinogenic or reproductive effects. Carcinogenicity review of cadmium and its compounds (update of a previous review, see CIS 84-505): though cadmium fume and aerosols can be highly toxic, there is no conclusive evidence of an association between cadmium exposure and cancer.
HMSO Books, P.O. Box 276, London SW8 5DT, United Kingdom, 1990. 12p. + 30p. + 14p. 90 + 122 + 26 ref. Price: GBP 9.00.

CIS 91-1250
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
Toxicological profile for ethylene oxide
The main health effects following inhalation exposure are central nervous system depression and irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes. Dermal contact results in skin burns, and corneal burns and cataracts have also been reported. Ethylene oxide is clearly a carcinogen in animals, and human epidemiological studies have shown limited evidence of carcinogenic effects in occupationally exposed populations. Adverse reproductive effects have been observed in animal studies but there is no clear evidence of these in humans. Glossary.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Services, Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, Dec. 1990. 109p. Illus. 276 ref.

CIS 91-905 Tsai S.P., Cowles S.R., Tackett D.L., Barclay M.T., Ross C.E.
Morbidity prevalence study of workers with potential exposure to epichlorohydrin
This study examined the morbidity experience from 1981 to 1988 of two cohorts (Shell and Enterline) of workers who had potential exposure to epichlorohydrin (ECH). For both cohorts, the standardised morbidity ratios (SMRs) for all causes and all neoplasms were similar to an internal comparison group. There were no increases in heart disease morbidity for either of the cohorts. Morbidity from skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders, however, was found to be significantly increased in the Shell cohort. A review of the original morbidity reports for each case suggested that factors unrelated to exposure to ECH may be of greater importance than exposure to ECH.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, June 1990, Vol.47, No.6, p.392-399. 8 ref.

CIS 91-383 Epichlorohydrin
International chemical safety card. Danger symbols: toxic. Short term exposure effects: skin absorption; corrosive to eyes, skin and respiratory tract; pulmonary oedema; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). Long term exposure effects: dermatitis; skin sensitisation; asthma; may have effects on kidneys, liver, adrenals and reproductive system; probably carcinogenic in humans; may cause heritable genetic damage; temporary male antifertility effects. EC identification number and labelling codes: 603-026-00-6; T; R45-10-23/24/25-34-43; S53-9-44. United Nations number and hazard class: UN 2023 (6.1: II).
Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg; International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1990. 2p. Illus.

CIS 91-546 Deschamps D., Leport M., Laurent A.M., Cordier S., Festy B., Conso F.
Toxicity of ethylene oxide on the lens and on leucocytes: an epidemiological study in hospital sterilisation installations
An epidemiological study was conducted in 55 subjects (mean age: 41) in hospitals to determine the prevalence of lens opacities and cataracts in workers exposed to ethylene oxide in six sterilisation units. The relation between occupational exposure to ethylene oxide and white blood cell concentrations was also investigated. Lens opacities were observed in 19 of the 55 exposed. No link was found between the characteristics of the lens opacities and the characteristics of exposure. For cataracts, their prevalence differed significantly between the exposed (six of 21) and the non-exposed (0 of 16); there was no relation between their existence and overexposures. The risk of lens opacifications by ethylene oxide could also exist during chronic exposure to low concentrations. Linear relations were found between the logarithm of the cumulative exposure index and the logarithms of blood concentrations of polymorphoneutrophils.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1990, Vol.47, No.5, p.308-313. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 91-202 Klees J.E., Lash A., Bowler R.M., Shore M., Becker C.E.
Neuropsychologic "impairment" in a cohort of hospital workers chronically exposed to ethylene oxide
Ethylene oxide is widely used to sterilise heat-sensitive materials. Acute and chronic neurogenic effects to the central and peripheral nervous system in man and animals have been described. A cross-sectional study of 25 hospital central sypply workers exposed to low levels of ethylene oxide and 24 unexposed control workers was conducted. Subjects were tested with a neuropsychological screening battery by examiners blinded to exposure status. Results were reviewed independently by 2 neuropsychologists without knowledge of exposure. Subject status was categorized as normal, "impaired," or disagreement (between the two neuropsychologists). There were more subjects concordantly judged as impaired in the exposed group than in the control group. Although limited by the cross-sectional study design and the global categorisation, these findings suggest that central nervous system dysfunction and cognitive impairment may result from chronic ethylene oxide exposure in hospital central sypply units.
Clinical Toxicology, 1990, Vol.28, No.1, p.21-28. 9 ref.

CIS 91-201 Estrin W.J., Bowler R.M., Lash A., Becker C.E.
Neurotoxicological evaluation of hospital sterilizer workers exposed to ethylene oxide
Ethylene oxide is used to chemically sterilise heat-sensitive materials in hospitals. Neurotoxic effects of ethylene oxide have been described in animals and humans; cognitive deficits may be associated with chronic low-level ethylene oxide exposure. In this study, hospital workers with chronic ethylene oxide exposure were compared with a non-exposed control group to detect neurological and neuropsychological abnormalities. Ethylene oxide breathing zone levels of up to 250ppm in exposed subjects were reported. The exposed group had lower P300 amplitude in electroencephalographic (EEG) tests, bilaterally hypoactive distal deep tendon reflexes and poorer performance on neuropsychological tests involving psychomotor speed. Exposed subjects acknowledged more symptoms and higher levels of depression and anxiety. Nerve conduction velocities and EEG spectral analysis were similar in both exposed and control groups as were scores on most psychological tests. Thus, ethylene oxide should be considered in a differential diagnosis of neuropsychological, peripheral and central nervous system dysfunction in workplace settings associated with ethylene oxide exposure.
Clinical Toxicology, 1990, Vol.28, No.1, p.1-20. 28 ref.

CIS 90-1288 Enterline P.E., Henderson V., Marsh G.
Mortality of workers potentially exposed to epichlorohydrin
An epidemiological study was undertaken to determine whether the animal carcinogen, epichlorohydrin (ECH), produces cancer in man. A total of 863 workers with probable exposure to ECH at 2 chemical plants during 1948-65 were followed up for deaths up to 1983. Twenty years or more after first exposure the all-cancer SMR was 112.2 (22 deaths) and the SMR for leukaemia was 500.0 (3 deaths), which is statistically significant. All cancer, leukaemia, and most other causes of death were related to estimated levels of exposure to ECH, except violence. The most consistent (both plants) relation was between exposure level and heart disease. Overall, the heart disease SMR 20 years or more after 1st exposure was 39.2 (5 deaths) for low exposure and 105.4 (17 deaths) for high exposure. Limited evidence of a cardiovascular disease relation to ECH production in 1 other epidemiological study is supported by this study. Allyl chloride used in the production of ECH may play a part. The relation of heart disease and exposure does not appear to be an artifact, although the fact that many other causes of death were also related to exposure argues against a causal relation.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Apr. 1990, Vol.47, No.4, p.269-276. 23 ref.

CIS 90-1287 Greenberg H.L., Ott M.G., Shore R.E.
Men assigned to ethylene oxide production or other ethylene oxide related chemical manufacturing: A mortality study
Retrospective cohort study on 2174 men employed between 1940 and 1978 by a large chemical company, who had been assigned to a chemical production department that used or produced ethylene oxide (EO). Comparisons were made with the general US population, the regional population, and with a group of 26,965 unexposed men from the same plants. Comparisons with general US deaths rates showed fewer deaths than expected in the EO group due to all causes and for total cancers. Seven deaths each due to leukaemia and pancreatic cancer were observed with 3.0 and 4.1 deaths expected. The relative risk of death due to each disease was strongly related to duration of assignments to that department. When men who worked in the chlorohydrin department were excluded, there was no evidence for an association of exposure to EO with pancreatic cancer or leukaemia. Together with the failure to show independent EO associations, the chlorohydrin department results suggest that leukaemia and pancreatic cancer may have been associated primarily with production of ethylene chlorohydrin or propylene chlorohydrin, or both.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Apr. 1990, Vol.47, No.4, p.221-230. 44 ref.

CIS 90-940 Kiesselbach N., Ulm K., Lange H.J., Korallus U.
A multicentre mortality study of workers exposed to ethylene oxide
The cohort consisted of 2,658 men from 8 chemical plants of 6 chemical companies in the Federal Republic of Germany who had been exposed to ethylene oxide for at least 1 year between 1928 and 1981. By the closing date of the study (31 Dec. 1982) 268 had died, 68 from malignant neoplasms. For 63 employees who had left the plant (2.4%) the vital status remained unknown. The standardised mortality ratio (SMR) for all causes of death was 0.87 and for all malignancies 0.97 compared with national rates. When local state rates were used the SMRs were slightly lower. Two deaths from leukaemia were observed compared with 2.35 expected. SMRs for carcinoma of the oesophagus (2.0) and carcinoma of the stomach (1.38) were raised but not significantly. In 1 plant an internal "control group" was selected matched for age, sex, and date of entry into the factory and compared with the exposed group. In both groups a "healthy worker effect" was observed. The total mortality and mortality from malignant neoplasms was higher in the exposed than in the control group; the differences were not statistically significant.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 1990, Vol.47, No.3, p.182-188. Illus. 22 ref.

1989

CIS 91-1616 Deschamps D., Laurent A.M., Festy B., Conso F.
Study of six ethylene oxide sterilisation installations of Paris public hospitals
Etude de six installations de stérilisation à l'oxyde d'éthylène à l'Assistance publique de Paris [in French]
The technical characteristics of 6 ethylene oxide sterilisation installations were studied by occupational physicians who also noted the occasional overexposures of 55 exposed workers. Static atmosphere samples and personal samples were analysed according to the AFNOR standard. Ethylene oxide concentrations determined in air samples taken at these installations varied between 0.06-2.8ppm; personal samples varied between 0.2-39ppm; the exposure limit for occupational exposure of 10ppm was exceeded in 2 units (27 and 39ppm). The high levels of exposure in these 2 units seemed to be related to the absence of rinsing after the sterilisation cycle, the use of CO₂ as the diluting gas (necessitating high pressures) and the smallness of the premises.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1989, Vol.50, No.7, p.641-649. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 91-1232 Bruze M., Almgren G.
Occupational dermatoses in workers exposed to epoxy-impregnated fiberglass fabric
In a plant producing printed circuit boards 84 of 143 employees complained of dermatoses. Of these 79 were examined by patch tests with products from the work environment. In 35 (22%) evidence of occupational dermatoses was found. Contact allergy to bisphenol A diglycidyl ether was diagnosed in six persons.
Dermatosen, 1989, Vol.37, No.5, p.171-176. Illus. 18 ref.

CIS 91-1115
National Board of Labour Protection (Finland)
Ethylene oxide
Translation into English of the chemical safety information sheet described in CIS 87-818. Ethylene oxide is an extremely flammable, very toxic gas (LD₅₀ = 330mg/kg; TLV = 90mg/m³). The gas is very irritating to the skin, eyes and mucous membranes. It causes coughing, nausea, vertigo, eczema and damage to the eyes. The liquid can cause chemical burns. The gas is very explosive. Mandatory European labelling: F, T, R13, R26, S9, S16, S33, S45.
International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1989. 2p.

CIS 91-771
National Board of Labour Protection (Finland)
Propylene oxide
Translation into English of the chemical safety information sheet described in CIS 87-854. Propylene oxide is a harmful, flammable liquid (LD₅₀ = 1140mg/kg, TLV 8h = 100ppm). The vapour irritates the skin, eyes and mucous membranes. Inhalation has narcotic effects. The liquid is an irritant. Forms extremely flammable compounds with air. Mandatory European labelling: F, Xn, R12, R20, R21, R22, S9, S16, S26, S29.
International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1989. 2p.

CIS 91-224 NIOSH Current Intelligence Bulletin No.51 - Carcinogenic effects of exposure to propylene oxide
This document summarises results of animal studies which demonstrate that propylene oxide is a direct-acting carcinogen. Human health effects of propylene oxide exposure include corneal burns, contact dermatitis, and a reduced capacity to repair DNA lesions. Epidemiological data are not available for workers exposed to propylene oxide, but as a result of findings of cancer and other tumors in experimental animals, NIOSH recommends that propylene oxide be considered a potential occupational carcinogen. Guidelines are given for minimising worker exposure including exposure monitoring, and control measures such as product substitution, use of closed systems and ventilation, worker isolation, provision of personal protective equipment, decontamination and adequate waste disposal methods.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA, July 1989. 14p. 53 ref.

CIS 90-1125 Ethylene oxide
Oxyde d'éthylène [in French]
Chemical hazard summary. Toxicity: strong irritation of eyes, skin and respiratory tract; cataracts; pulmonary oedema; chemical burns; dermatitis; neurotoxic effects (peripheral nerves); suspected human carcinogen (leukaemia, stomach cancer).
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 250 Main Street East, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 1H6, Canada, 1989. 12p. 23 ref.

CIS 90-1292 Törnqvist M.Å., Almberg J.G., Bergmark E.N., Nilsson S., Osterman-Golkar S.M.
Ethylene oxide doses in ethene-exposed fruit store workers
Blood samples from 10 ethene-exposed fruit store workers and 10 referents were analysed for the level of hydroxyethyl adducts to N-terminal valine in haemoglobin (Hb). A statistically significant difference was obtained between the nonsmoking workers (N=7) and the nonsmoking referents (N=6). This finding demonstrates that ethene is metabolised to ethylene oxide in man. According to this preliminary study, ethene exposure at 0.3 (uncertainly range 0.1-1) ppm during workhours increases the adduct level by 23pmol/g Hb. This figure is compatible with a metabolic conversion of 3% (1-10%) of the inhaled ethene to ethylene oxide.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Dec. 1989, Vol.15, No.6, p.436-438. 17 ref.

CIS 90-1316 NIOSH Current Intelligence Bulletin 520 - Ethylene oxide sterilizers in health care facilities - Engineering controls and work practices
NIOSH recommended in 1981 that ethylene oxide be regarded as a potential occupational carcinogen and that appropriate controls be used to reduce worker exposure. This bulletin identifies potential sources of ethylene oxide exposure from gas sterilisers in health care facilities and describes recommended control measures. Exposure sources from both automatic general purpose sterilisers and sterilisers using glass ampules are described, together with specific control methods. General control methods include provision of adequate maintenance procedures, routine monitoring of the steriliser and the work environment, respiratory protection and labelling and posting of hazards. A table shows the NIOSH recommended respiratory protection for ethylene oxide at various concentrations.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Standards Development and Technology Transfer, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA, July 1989. 12p. Illus.

CIS 90-1304
Werkgroep van Deskundigen ter vaststelling van MAC-waarden (Dutch Expert Committee for Occupational Standards)
Report on a health-based occupational exposure limit for ethylene oxide
Rapport inzake grenswaarde ethyleenoxide [in Dutch]
This report contains data on ethylene oxide: chemical and physical properties, occurrence and applications, environmental and biological monitoring, toxicokinetics; toxicity; current exposure limits in the Netherlands and other countries. In view of the genotoxic effects of ethylene oxide, no advice could be given on an occupational exposure level that would prevent all health hazards. Using a linear model of extrapolation the risk of cancer is calculated for various exposure levels (exposure during the whole working life): exposure level of 0.5ppm (8h TWA): risk 4 x 10^-3; exposure level of 12.5ppb: risk 1 x 10^-4; exposure level of 0.125ppb: risk 1 x 10^-6.
Department of Social Affairs and Employment, Directorate-General of Labour (Ministerie van Sociale Zaken en Werkgelegenheid, Directoraat-Generaal van de Arbeid), Postbus 69, 2270 MA Voorburg, Netherlands, 1989. 21p. 9 ref.

CIS 90-959 Mortimer V.D., Kercher S.L.
Control technology for ethylene oxide sterilization in hospitals
In this study nine steriliser control systems were evaluated in 8 hospitals in the USA. Three emission sources accounted for most of the ethylene oxide released into the environment: release from the air gap at the connection of the drain to the pump outlet; opening of the steriliser door at the completion of a cycle; load transfer procedures. Exposures can be controlled to a ceiling limit of 5ppm and to average less than 0.1ppm for a full shift. In-chamber aeration substantially eliminates any exposure and is considered the best control. Other control measures include cycle modification, local ventilation above the steriliser door, a ventilated enclosure around the drain and general ventilation.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA, Sep. 1989. 167p. Illus. Bibl.

CIS 90-564 Gardner M.J., Coggon D., Pannett B., Harris E.C.
Workers exposed to ethylene oxide: a follow up study
A cohort study has been carried out of 2876 men and women employees from four companies that have produced or used ethylene oxide since the 1950s and from eight hospitals which have had ethylene oxide sterilising units since the 1960s. Industrial hygiene data were not available before 1977, but since then time weighted average exposures have been less than 5ppm in almost all jobs and less than 1ppm in many. Past exposures were probably somewhat higher. In contrast to some previous studies, no clear excess of leukaemia (three deaths observed, 2.09 expected) and no increase in stomach cancer (five deaths observed, 5.95 expected) were found. This discrepancy with earlier reports may be due in part to differences in levels of exposure. Total cancer mortality was similar to that expected from national and local death rates. Some specific cancers showed small excesses but their relevance to ethylene oxide exposure is doubtful. Again, contrary to some earlier reports, no excess of cardiovascular disease was found.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Dec. 1989, Vol.46, No.12, p.860-865. 10 ref.

CIS 90-579 Jungwirth H.
Residues on thermally unstable materials - Ethylene oxide, a danger to the patient and to personnel
Rückstände auf thermolabilen Materialien - Ethylenoxid, eine Gefahr für Patient und Personal [in German]
Disinfection of plastic hospital equipment (e.g. endoscopes) with ethylene oxide does not always remove all pathogens. In addition, residual concentrations of ethylene oxide far in excess of the recommended value may remain on the equipment, as is shown by several examples. Therefore, it is recommended to sterilise plastic equipment using high-energy radiation.
Krankenhaustechnik, Oct. 1989, Vol.15, No.10, p.42-44. Illus.

CIS 89-1121 Ethylene oxide
Oxyde d'éthylène [in French]
Chemical safety information sheet. Exposure limits (France, 1982): TWA = 10mg/m³; ceiling value = 20mg/m³. Extremely flammable gas. Acute toxicity: irritation of skin, eyes and respiratory tract; gastrointestinal and neurological disorders; delayed chemical burns. Chronic toxicity: genetic abnormalities; adverse effects on pregnancy. EEC identification number and labelling codes: No. 603-023-00-X; F⁺, T; R45, R46, R13, R23, R36/37/38, S53, S3/7/9, S16, S33, S44.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 1989. 5p. Bibl.

1988

CIS 90-1126 Ethylene oxide, potential human carcinogen
Chemical safety information sheet taken from the newly revised edition of the NIOSH publication "Occupational Safety and Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards". Exposure limits: OSHA PEL (8h-TWA) = 2mg/m³; NIOSH REL (10min ceiling value) = 9mg/m³; ACGIH TLV (8h-TWA; A2 carcinogen) = 2mg/m³. Odour threshold = 430ppm. Toxicity: irritation of skin, eyes and respiratory tract; neurotoxic effects (peripheral nerves); chemical burns; skin sensitisation; dermatitis; stomach cancer; leukaemia; miscarriage.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Divison of Standards Development and Technology Transfer, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati OH 45226, USA, 1988. 6p.

CIS 90-547 Van Joost T.
Occupational sensitisation to epichlorohydrin and epoxy resin
Sensitisation to epichlorohydrin (ECH) is reported in 6 patients with occupational contact allergy. In 2 cases, an isolated positive test to ECH was found. In the remaining 4 cases, concomitant positive reactions were seen to "EDCRG epoxy resin" (MW 385) and to liquid epoxy resin (MW 370). Allergy to bisphenol A was not seen in the patients. Five patients worked in an epoxy resin plant. Adequate preventive measures to avoid skin contact with ECH are required to prevent ECH sensitisation becoming a more serious industrial hazard.
Contact Dermatitis, Oct. 1988, Vol.19, No.4, p.278-280. 9 ref.

CIS 90-54 Phenyl glycidyl ether
Chemical safety information sheet taken from the newly revised edition of the NIOSH publication "Occupational Safety and Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards". Exposure limits: OSHA PEL (8h-TWA) = 60mg/m³; NIOSH REL (15min ceiling) = 5mg/m³; ACGIH TLV (8h-TWA) = 6mg/m³. Toxicity: irritates eyes, skin and respiratory tract; dermatitis; skin sensitisation.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Standards Development and Technology Transfer, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati OH 45226-1988, USA, 1988. 5p. Bibl.

CIS 90-43 Isopropyl glycidyl ether
Chemical safety information sheet taken from the newly revised edition of the NIOSH publication "Occupational Safety and Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards". Exposure limits: OSHA PEL (8h-TWA) = 240mg/m³; NIOSH REL (15min ceiling) = 240mg/m³; ACGIH TLV (8h-TWA) = 240mg/m³. Toxicity: reversible neurotoxic effects; irritation of eyes, skin and respiratory tract; dermatitis; skin sensitisation.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Standards Development and Technology Transfer, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1988, USA. 5p. Bibl.

CIS 90-225 Dannaker C.J.
Allergic sensitization to a non-bisphenol A epoxy of the cycloaliphatic class
This is the first report of sensitisation to a cycloaliphatic epoxy. Allergic contact dermatitis occurred in an electron microscopist after exposure to the cycloaliphatic epoxy, vinyl cyclohexane diepoxide. Cycloaliphatic epoxies are not based on the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA), presently the epoxy of greatest commercial usage. Non-DGEBA epoxies are finding new applications in the semiconductor and aerospace industries and will likely gain in importance as a cause of occupational allergic dermatitis. Latex or polyvinyl chloride gloves did not protect the reported patient from precutaneous absorption and elicitation of allergic dermatitis.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1988, Vol.30, No.8, p.641-643. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 90-190 Javorskij A.P., Manza I.A., Petrov N.A., Timofeeva T.N.
Comprehensive study of the composition of the volatile products of epoxy resins by proton magnetic resonance and gas-liquid chromatography
Kompleksnoe izučenie sostava letučih produktov ėpoksidnyh smol s primeneniem metoda protonno-magnitnogo rezonansa i gazožidkostnoj hromatografii [in Russian]
The composition of volatile products of cycloaliphatic epoxy resins UP-640 and UP-650 T, polyoxypropylene epoxides DE-1000, DE-2000, TE-750, TE-1500 and epoxy-diane ED-6 was determined. The cycloaliphatic epoxy resins and polyoxypropylene epoxides (POPE) differ from earlier epoxy resins in both component composition and content. Such highly toxic components as allyl chloride and styrene can volatilise along with epichlorohydrin and toluene from UP-640 and UP-650 T, in contrast to epoxy resins. Volatile products of POPE include acetone, allyl chloride, ethanol and dioxane equally with the usual components of diane resins. The main component taken into account for standardisation cannot be only epichlorohydrin. In the case of hygienic standardisation of POPE, in particular, acetone is chosen as the volatile component because of its proportion, boiling point and volatilising proportion in comparison with other volatile products.
Gigiena i sanitarija, May 1988, No.5, p.86-88. 5 ref.

CIS 89-1781 Diglycidyl ether, potential human carcinogen
Chemical safety information sheet taken from the newly revised edition of the NIOSH publication "Occupational Safety and Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards". Exposure limits: OSHA PEL (8h-TWA) = 2.8mg/m³; NIOSH REL (15min-TWA) = 1mg/m³; ACGIH TLV (8h-TWA) = 0.5mg/m³. Odour threshold = 5ppm. Toxicity: potential human carcinogen; skin burns; severe irritation of skin, eyes and respiratory tract; dermatitis; skin sensitisation.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Standards Development and Technology Transfer, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati OH 45226, USA, 1988. 5p. Bibl.

CIS 89-1635
Health and Safety Commission
Control of substances hazardous to health in fumigation operations; Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulation 1988 [United Kingdom] - Approved Code of Practice
This booklet contains the Approved Code of Practice (effective 1 Oct. 1989) and 19 Regulations (applying to all fumigant gases; special duties are also imposed on the users of the more commonly used fumigants - methyl bromide, hydrogen cyanide, ethylene oxide and phosphine). The Code was approved under Section 16 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 for the purpose of providing practical guidance with respect to the provisions of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1988. It applies to fumigant operations whether undertaken in the open air, in temporarily created containment or in purpose-built fumigation or sterilisation chambers or enclosures. It does not apply to the use of vapours, fogs, fumes and smokes for the purpose of pest control, the use of which should follow the Approved Code of Practice, "The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health: Control of Exposure to Pesticides at Work" (in preparation).
HMSO Books, P.O. Box 276, London SW8 5DT, United Kingdom, 1988. 42p. Price: GBP 3.00.

CIS 89-1468 Ethylene oxide
Tlenek etylenu [in Polish]
Chemical safety information sheet. Permissible exposure limit (Poland) = 1mg/m³.
Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, 1 Ul. Tamka, 00-349 Warszawa 30, Poland, 1988. 2p.

CIS 89-1458 n-Butyl glycidyl ether
Chemical safety information sheet taken from the newly revised edition of the NIOSH publication "Occupational Safety and Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards". Exposure limits: OSHA PEL (8h-TWA) = 270mg/m³. NIOSH REL (15min ceiling) = 30mg/m³; ACGIH TLV (8h-TWA) = 135mg/m³. Toxicity: mild irritation of skin, eyes and respiratory tract; inflammation and sensitisation of skin in case of chronic exposure.
US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Standards Development and Technology Transfer, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA, 1988. 6p. Bibl.

CIS 89-1449 Allyl glycidyl ether
Chemical safety information sheet taken from the newly revised edition of the NIOSH publication "Occupational Safety and Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards". Exposure limits: OSHA PEL (ceiling) = 45mg/m³; NIOSH REL (ceiling, 15min) = 45mg/m³; ACGIH TLV (TWA, skin) = 22mg/m³. Toxicity: skin absorption; severe irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract; dermatitis; skin sensitisation and mild irritation.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control, NIOSH, Division of Standards Development and Technology Transfer, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati OH 45226, USA, 1988. 6p. Bibl.

CIS 89-553 Austin S.G., Sielken R.L.
Issues in assessing the carcinogenic hazards of ethylene oxide
Characterisation of the health risks associated with occupational and environmental exposure to ethylene oxide is made difficult by the limited dose-response information contained in the few published epidemiologic studies available, and the absence of toxicological data for chronic exposures in species other than the rat. Federal regulatory agencies have relied heavily on conventional quantitative risk assessment techniques in setting revised occupational exposure standards for ethylene oxide. This paper indicates the variability in risk assessment results that can be obtained using the multistage dose-response model and a single animal study depending on the method used to characterise risk, the health endpoint selected, the use of confidence intervals, and the method used to equate animal and human exposure levels. Selection of the most pessimistic options available in each of these four areas is shown to result in a virtually safe dose being characterised as 0.005ppb, whereas other reasonable assumptions yield a safe dose estimate of 1.3ppm.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Mar. 1988, Vol.30, No.3, p.236-245. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 89-604 Deschamp D.
Use of ethylene oxide in medical and surgical sterilisation. Evaluation of the occupational risk of opacification of the lens
Utilisation de l'oxyde d'éthylène en stérilisation microchirurgicale. Evaluation du risque professionnel d'opacification du cristallin [in French]
This medical thesis reports on a cross-sectional epidemiologic survey of 75 persons - 45 exposed to ethylene oxide during equipment sterilisation in 5 hospitals in Paris, and 20 controls - to determine whether or not the exposure increased the risk of developing cataracts or opacities of the lens. Topics: characteristics of ethylene oxide; use of ethylene oxide for sterilisation; methodology and results of the epidemiologic study. Continuous measurements according to French standards showed that the exposure level was 0.06-39ppm for periods of 0.5-190min. There seems to be no risk of cataract in the case of low exposure, but the condition may occur in the case of massive overexposure, and should be considered as an occupational accident.
Université de Paris, Faculté de médecine Broussais-Hôtel-Dieu, Paris, France, 1988. 222p. Illus. 108 ref.

CIS 88-2000 Elliott L.J., Ringenburg V.L., Morelli-Schroth P., Halperin W.E., Herrick R.F.
Ethylene oxide exposures in hospitals
Results of surveys conducted at 12 US hospitals indicated that TWA exposures reached up to 6.7ppm ethylene oxide (EtO) and maximum short-term exposures reached 103ppm. Lowest exposure levels were linked to good engineering controls and work practices.
Applied Industrial Hygiene, May 1988, Vol.3, No.5, p.141-145. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 88-1999 Necker G.
Cold gas sterilisation with ethylene oxide
Kaltgassterilisation mit Ethylenoxid [in German]
The concentrations of ethylene oxide in workplace air within the first 7 minutes after opening the steriliser were measured in various hospitals. Initial values ranging from 25 to 100ppm were found to drop within 15 minutes to 3ppm and within 30 minutes to 1ppm. Measurements of 14 different sterilisers yielded values between 2.5ppm under extremely favourable conditions and 245ppm in the case of a defective steriliser.
Krankenhaustechnik, May 1988, Vol.14, No.5, p.64-67. Illus.

1987

CIS 89-762 Propylene oxide
1,2-Propylenoxid; 1,2-Epoxipropan; Metyloxiran [in Swedish]
Chemical safety information sheet taken from the Kemiska Ämnen Register (CIS 89-214). Exposure limit: TLV = 12mg/m³. Toxicity: irritates the eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 103 64 Stockholm, Sweden, 1987. 3p.

CIS 89-751 Ethylene oxide
Etylenoxid; Etenoxid [in Swedish]
Chemical safety information sheet taken from the Kemiska Ämnen Register (CIS 89-214). Toxicity: carcinogen; irritates the skin, eyes and mucous membranes; affects the central nervous system.
Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 10364 Stockholm, Sweden, 1987. 3p.

CIS 89-709 Regulation respecting ethylene oxide - made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act [Canada - Ontario]
The Regulation prescribes ethylene oxide as a designated substance. It outlines the responsibilities of employers and employees to limit exposure and institutes a control programme. The 15min maximum exposure concentration is given as 18mg/m³, while the TWA exposure limit is 1.8mg/m³. The publication includes as well codes for respiratory equipment and for measuring airborne ethylene oxide.
Ontario Ministry of Labour, Occupational Health and Safety Division, 400 University Ave., Toronto, Ont. M7A 1T7, Canada, 1987. 50p. Illus. Index. (Regulation originally published: Ontario Gazette, 11 Apr. 1987, No.15, p.1686-1690).

CIS 89-870 Javorovskij A.P.
Comparative toxicological and hygienic assessment of polyoxypropylene epoxides and bases for group MACs for their volatile components in workplace air
Sravnitel'naja toksikologo-gigieničeskaja harakteristika polioksipropilenėpoksidov i obosnovanie gruppovoj PDK ih letučih komponentov v vozduhe rabočej zony [in Russian]
Animal experiments were carried out to study polyoxypropylene epoxides (PE), a group of new compounds with similar toxicological characteristics. PE do not penetrate the skin but slightly irritate the skin and the conjunctiva. Acetone, toluene and epichlorohydrin, which separate out from PE at temperatures of 20-100°C produce hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects. Since PE have similar toxicological characteristics, the group MAC of 100mg/m³ as acetone has been set up for their volatile components in workplace air. These experiments demonstrated the possibility of setting group standards for newly synthesised epoxy resins representing homologous series.
Gigiena truda i professional'nye zabolevanija, Aug. 1987, No.8, p.28-31. 6 ref.

CIS 89-537 Vermej M.I.
Combined allergenic effect of volatile complexes of epoxy and phenol-formaldehyde compositions
Kombinirovannoe allergennoe dejstvie letučih kompleksov ėpoksidnyh i fenolformal'degidnyh kompozicij [in Russian]
Animal expirements were performed to study the individual and combined allergenic effects of volatile complexes of chemicals released from epoxy and phenol-formaldehyde compositions. The combined action of formaldehyde and epichlorohydrin in volatile materials from EIF lacquer is such as to enhance the allergenic activity of formaldehyde and suppress that of epichlorohydrin. This should be taken into consideration when setting standards for volatile epoxy-phenol-formaldehyde complexes. The volatile complex of EIF epoxy-phenol-formaldehyde lacquer possesses more allergenic activity than volatile complexes of ED-16 solution and IF lacquer. 0.5mg/m³ of the volatile complex of IF (as formaldehyde) is the threshold of allergenic action.
Gigiena truda i professional'nye zabolevanija, Feb. 1987, No.2, p.37-40. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 89-532 D'jačkova E.F., Lovčinovskaja T.A., Čikin G.A.
Chromatographic determination of acrylonitrile, ethanol, toluene, butyl alcohol and epichlorohydrin in mixtures in workplace air
Gazohromatografičeskoe opredelenie akrilonitrila, ėtanola, toluola, butanola i epihlorgidrina v vozduhe pri sovmestnom prisutstvii [in Russian]
Optimal conditions were established for the determination of the title compounds: 3m by 3mm column packed with 10% polyethylene glycol adipate on 0.25-0.5mm Spherochrome; column temperature 90°C; injector temperature 125°C; carrier gas (helium) flow rate 40mL/min; flame ionisation detector. An analysis takes 10min. The newly developed method permits determination of the following minimal concentrations: acrylonitrile - 0.25mg/m³ (MAC 0.5mg/m³), ethanol - 1mg/m³ (MAC 1000mg/m³), toluene - 1mg/m³ (MAC 50mg/m³), butyl alcohol - 1mg/m³ (MAC 10mg/m³), epichlorohydrin - 0.5mg/m³ (MAC 1mg/m³).
Gigiena i sanitarija, Apr. 1987, No.4, p.55-56. Illus. 3 ref.

CIS 89-205 Cold gas sterilisation with ethylene oxide. Surveys conducted by the Technical Inspection Service
Kaltgassterilisation mit Ethylenoxid - Der Technische Aufsichtsdienst führte Übersichtsmessungen durch [in German]
The results of measurements of ethylene oxide in several hospitals are presented. A flame ionisation detector with a range of 1 to 10,000ppm and a response time of 1.5 seconds was used. Indoor measurements were taken after opening of the cold gas steriliser. During the few minutes while the sterilised objects were removed concentrations of ethylene oxide ranging from 20 to 100ppm were recorded. It is recommended that sterilisers be designed to prevent opening until all the ethylene oxide has been drawn off.
Die Fachkraft für Arbeitssicherheit, 1987, No.2, p.11-13. Illus.

CIS 88-1599 Mathias C.G.T.
Allergic contact dermatitis from a nonbisphenol A epoxy in a graphite fiber reinforced epoxy laminate
An employee of an aircraft engine manufacturing firm developed dermatitis associated with the handling of a graphite-fibre-reinforced epoxy laminate (epoxy prepreg). Patch test investigation demonstrated that the responsible causal agent was the nonbisphenol A epoxy binder 4-glycidyloxy-N, N-diglycidylaniline. A patch test with bisphenol A epoxy from a standard patch test screening series was negative. Subsequent interviews with other employees suggested that a relative lack of awareness of the cutaneous hazards of fibre-reinforced epoxy laminates, compared with liquid epoxy systems, may be an important risk factor for allergic sensitisation to these composite materials.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Sep. 1987, Vol.29, No.9, p.754-755. 4 ref.

CIS 88-1076 Regulation made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act; Designated Substance - Ethylene Oxide [Canada - Ontario]
The responsibilities of employers to limit exposure and to institute a control programme are outlined as well as the employee responsibilities. The short-term exposure concentration, measured over 15min. is 10ppm or 18mg/m³. Records and medical examinations are covered and a method for calculating exposure is shown.
Ontario Gazette - Gazette de l'Ontario, 11 Apr. 1987, No.15, p.1686-1690.

CIS 88-1223 Sarto F., Clonfero E., Bartolucci G.B., Franceschi C., Chiricolo M., Levis A.G.
Sister chromatid exchanges and DNA repair capability in sanitary workers exposed to ethylene oxide: Evaluation of the dose-effect relationship
Determination of ethylene oxide (EtO) in the working environment and induction of sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) and unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) in peripheral lymphocytes of 10 exposed workers and 10 control subjects matched for sex, age, and smoking habits are reported. The 10 newly examined workers were exposed to EtO concentrations (1.84ppm as time-weighted average) intermediate between the high (10.7ppm) and low (0.35ppm) levels of exposure of the two previously examined groups (19 and 22 workers, respectively). A statistically significant increase of SCE frequency was observed between the present control and exposed groups. The inducibility of UDS by gamma rays was insignificantly lower in the lymphocytes of the exposed workers than in controls. A significant relation between the frequency of SCE and the level of EtO exposure for the three exposed groups was demonstrated by two statistical methods. It is suggested that the present Italian threshold limit value for EtO (3ppm) may not protect the exposed workers against possible genotoxic effects and that even a chronic exposure to 1ppm may not be devoid of genotoxic risk.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 1987, Vol.12, No.5, p.625-637. Illus. 30 ref.

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