Ethylene oxide - 276 entries found

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2009

CIS 09-1311 Kerre S., Goossens A.
Allergic contact dermatitis to ethylene oxide
A 35-year-old nurse presented at the dermatology department of a Belgian hospital with a two-month history of contact dermatitis affecting both forearms. Patch tests were carried out with standard series and specific products, including one piece of surgical gown sterilized and another piece not sterilized with ethylene oxide. A positive reaction was found to the sterilized gown.
Contact Dermatitis, July 2009, Vol.61, No.1, p.47-48. 6 ref.

CIS 09-1047 Swaen G.M.H., Burns C., Teta J.M., Bodner K., Keenan D., Bodnar C.M.
Mortality study update of ethylene oxide workers in chemical manufacturing: A 15 year update
To investigate the long-term mortality patterns of workers with past exposure to ethylene oxide (EO), a cohort of 2063 men employed between 1940 and 1988 in EO production were observed for mortality through 2003. Cause specific standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated. Internal analyses were made by applying Cox proportional hazards models to the data. No indications were found for excess cancer risks from EO exposures, including the lymphohaematopoietic malignancies. There were 11 leukaemia deaths and 11.8 expected, and 12 non-Hodgkin lymphoma deaths and 11.5 expected.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 2009, Vol.51, No.6, p.714-723. 24 ref.

CIS 09-421 Johannes Geier J., Lessmann H., Reinecke S.
Occupational airborne allergic contact dermatitis in a concrete repair worker
This article describes a case of contact dermatitis in a 31-year-old bricklayer involved in the repair of concrete structures and exposed daily to epoxy systems. Despite the use of personal protective equipment including goggles, a face mask and nitrile gloves, he developed a dermatitis on the forearms, and later an eczema on the face which were diagnosed as a work-related airborne dermatitis. Patch tests resulted in positive reactions to several epoxy systems. The dermatitis ceased within weeks after he stopped working in the construction industry.
Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 2009, Vol.60, No.1, p.50-51. Illus. 6 ref.

2008

CIS 09-659
World Health Organization (WHO)
IARC monographs on the evaluation of carcinogenic risks to humans. 1,3-Butadiene, ethylene oxide and vinyl halides (vinyl fluoride, vinyl chloride and vinyl bromide)
This volume re-evaluates the available evidence on the carcinogenic potential of 1,3-butadiene, ethylene oxide and vinyl halides (vinyl fluoride, vinyl chloride and vinyl bromide). Ethylene oxide is widely used as a sterilizing agent for hospital equipment. The largest single use for 1,3-butadiene is in the production of styrene-butadiene rubber for tyres, while vinyl chloride is primarily used in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride. Summary of final evaluations: ethylene oxide, 1,3-butadiene and vinyl chloride are classified in Group 1 (carcinogenic to humans); vinyl bromide is classified in Group 2A (probably carcinogenic to humans), while there is inadequate evidence for the carcinogenicity of vinyl fluoride in humans.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 150 cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France 2008. ix, 510p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index.
http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monographs/vol97/mono97.pdf [in English]

2007

CIS 08-1144 Ethylene oxide (EtO): Understanding OSHA's exposure monitoring requirements
The purpose of this guidance document is to help employers understand how to monitor the quality of the air in workplaces where ethylene oxide (EtO) is processed, used, or handled. Air monitoring is an important activity that can help alert employers when unsafe levels of EtO are present in the air so that they can take steps to reduce employee exposure. EtO can be used more safely if appropriate precautions are taken and if equipment is adequately designed and maintained. This document clarifies the different types of EtO exposure monitoring, lists and explains the exposure levels used by OSHA, reviews the exposure monitoring requirements in OSHA's EtO rules, and outlines the monitoring decisions that the employer needs to make when employees work in areas where EtO is present.
Publications U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20210, USA, 2007. 28p. 15 ref.
http://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA_ethylene_oxide.pdf [in English]

CIS 08-414 Ethylene oxide (EtO) - Understanding OSHA's exposure monitoring requirements
The purpose of this guide is to help employers understand how to monitor the quality of the air in workplaces where ethylene oxide (EO) is processed, used or handled. Air monitoring is an important activity that can help alert employers when unsafe levels of EO are present in the air so that they can take steps to reduce employee exposure. EO can be used more safely if appropriate precautions are taken and if equipment is adequately designed and maintained. This document: clarifies the different types of EO exposure monitoring, lists and explains the exposure levels used by OSHA, reviews the exposure monitoring requirements in OSHA's EO rules and comments the monitoring decisions that the employer needs to make when employees work in areas where EO is present.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 2007. 28p. 10 ref.
http://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA_ethylene_oxide.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-1377 Gresie-Brusin D.F., Kielkowski D., Baker A., Channa K., Rees D.
Occupational exposure to ethylene oxide during pregnancy and association with adverse reproductive outcomes
The objective of this study was to investigate the association between exposure to ethylene oxide during pregnancy and adverse reproductive outcomes. The study population consisted of women working during 2004 at hospital sterilising units using ethylene oxide in a South African province. Data on the outcome of the pregnancy were gathered by means of questionnaires. Data on exposure to ethylene oxide during pregnancy was obtained from walk-through surveys, questionnaires and workplace atmosphere measurements. A total of 98 singleton pregnancies were analysed. Measurements of ethylene oxide showed that operators of sterilising units were potentially over-exposed. There was a significantly increased risk of spontaneous abortion (prevalence odds ratio POR 20.8) and pregnancy loss (POR 8.6) for women highly exposed to ethylene oxide compared to low exposed pregnancies. No associations were found between exposure to ethylene oxide and stillbirth.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, July 2007, Vol.80, No.7, p.559-565. 19 ref.

2006

CIS 08-396 Rømyhr O., Nyfors A., Leira H.L., Smedbold H.T.
Allergic contact dermatitis caused by epoxy resin systems in industrial painters
A group of 2236 industrial painters employed in six companies of the Norwegian oil industry was followed between 1997 and 2001 to assess the incidence of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) caused by exposure to epoxy resin systems. Commercially-available patch test series were supplemented with a series based on known or suspected sensitizers present at the workplaces. Of 57 patch-tested workers, 23 with ACD caused by epoxy resin systems were found, indicating an incidence rate of 4.5/1000 person years. Positive patch tests to 2,4,6-tris-(dimethylaminomethyl)phenol (tris-DMP) and m-xylene-α,α'-diamine (XAD) were seen in seven and eight workers, respectively, indicating that both chemicals are important sensitizers in industrial painters. They are, however, not classified as skin sensitizers according to the European regulations on the classification and labelling of dangerous chemicals.
Contact Dermatitis, Sep. 2006, Vol.55, No.3, p.167-172. 22 ref.

CIS 06-757 Ethylene oxide
Oxido de etileno [in Spanish]
Chemical safety data sheet for ethylene oxide. The substance is an extremely flammable gas. Inhalation exposure to high concentrations may be fatal (asphyxia and pulmonary oedema). Exposure to lower concentrations may cause narcotic effects and symptoms such as vertigo, headache, nausea and loss of coordination. Effects may be delayed. The substance may also cause cyanosis and loss of the sense of smell. Contact with the eyes may cause irritation and conjunctivitis. Effects on the skin include sensitization, irritation and dermatitis. The substance can be absorbed by the skin causing effects on the nervous system. The substance is suspected of causing carcinogenic and reproductive effects in humans. ACGIH threshold limit value 1ppm (TWA).
Consejo Colombiano de Seguridad, Carrera 20, No.39-62, 6839 Bogotá, Colombia, 2006. 4p. Illus.

2005

CIS 06-378 Jappe U., Geier J., Hausen B.M.
Contact vitiligo following a strong patch test reaction to triglycidyl-p-aminophenol in an aircraft industry worker: Case report and review of the literature
Epoxy resin systems are a frequent cause of occupational allergic contact dermatitis. A 50-year-old patient developed eczematous skin lesions on the back of his hands, lower arms and eye lids, two months after starting work in aircraft construction. Patch tests showed positive reactions to nickel sulfate and to epoxy resins based on the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol F and on 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether. Triglycidyl-p-aminophenol (TGPAP) applied at 1% and 0.1% induced the strongest positive reaction. Four months later, the patient presented with two circular depigmented spots in the former TGPAP-patch test areas. Dermatohistopathology confirmed the diagnosis of contact vitiligo.
Contact Dermatitis, Aug. 2005, Vol.53, No.2, p.89-92. Illus. 9 ref.

2004

CIS 06-148 Steenland K., Stayner L., Deddens J.
Mortality analyses in a cohort of 18,235 ethylene oxide exposed workers: Follow up extended from 1987 to 1998
This cohort mortality study involved 18,235 men and women exposed to ethylene oxide. There were 2852 deaths between 1987 and 1998, compared with 1177 in an earlier follow-up in 1997. There was little evidence of any excess cancer mortality for the cohort as a whole, with the exception of bone cancer based on small numbers. Positive exposure-response trends for lymphoid tumours were found for males only. Reasons for the sex specificity of this effect are not known. There was also some evidence of a positive exposure-response for breast cancer mortality.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2004, Vol.61, No.1, p.2-7. 21 ref.

CIS 05-619 Luo J.C., Cheng T.J., Kuo H.W., Chang M.J.W.
Decreased lung function associated with occupational exposure to epichlorohydrin and the modification effects of glutathione S-transferase polymorphisms
Epichlorohydrin (ECH) is a strong irritant of the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. Because the toxic effect of various chemicals can be modified by metabolic traits, this study investigated the influence of the glutathione S-transferase (GSTM1 and GSTT1) genes on the toxic effect of ECH. In the GSTM1 null genotype workers, there is a dose-response of lung function tests for ECH exposure, but not in the GSTM1 non-null genotype workers. The ECH exposure was found to be significantly associated with decreased FEV₁ and MMEF values after adjusting for other factors. The GSTM1 null genotype was found to be significantly associated with decreased FEV₁, FEV₁/FVC and MMEF values after adjusting for other factors. This study indicates that obstructive lung abnormalities and small airway lung damage are associated with ECH exposure, and ECH workers with GSTM1 null-type are also associated with increased respiratory damage.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2004, Vol.46, No.3, p.280-286. 45 ref.

2003

CIS 03-1088 Liteplo R.G., Meek M.E., Lewis M.
Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC)
Ethylene oxide
Conclusions of this criteria document: ethylene oxide is an ocular, respiratory and dermal irritant and a sensitizing agent; neurological effects (sensorimotor polyneuropathy) have been observed in workers exposed to relatively high concentrations. Based on animal studies, cancer is considered the critical end- point for effects of ethylene oxide on humans. There is some evidence of an association between exposure to ethylene oxide and haematological cancers, and of clastogenic changes induced in exposed workers. In experiment animals, ethylene oxide is foetotoxic and induces germ cell mutations and clastogenic changes.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2003. iv, 57p. Illus. 255 ref.
http://www.who.int/ipcs/publications/cicad/en/cicad54.pdf [in English]

CIS 02-1558 Glycidyl phenyl ether
Éter glicidílico de fenilo [in Spanish]
Chemical safety information sheet published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Exposure limits: TWA 60mg/m³ or 10ppm (OSHA); ceiling value 5mg/m³ or 1ppm for 15min (NIOSH); 6mg/m³ or 1ppm (ACGIH). Exposure routes: inhalation and ingestion. Toxicity: irritation of eyes, nose, respiratory tract and skin; drying of the skin, dermatitis, blisters, oedema, skin eruptions and skin sensitization.
Noticias de seguridad, Jan.-Feb. 2003, Vol.65, No.1/2, 4p. Insert.

2001

CIS 01-982 Glycidyl isopropyl ether (GIE)
Eter isopropílico de glicidol (EIG) [in Spanish]
Chemical safety information sheet published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Exposure limits: 240mg/m³ or 50ppm (OSHA, NIOSH, ACGIH); short-term exposure 360mg/m³ or 75ppm (ACGIH). Exposure routes: inhalation and ingestion. Acute toxicity: confusion; moderate irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Chronic toxicity: skin diseases and skin sensitization.
Noticias de seguridad, July 2001, Vol.63, No.7, 4p. Insert.

CIS 01-977 Ethylene oxide
Óxido de etileno [in Spanish]
Chemical safety information sheet published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Exposure limits: 1ppm (OSHA); 0.18mg/m³ or 0.1ppm and max. 9mg/m³ or 5ppm for 10min (NIOSH); 2mg/m³ or 1ppm A2 (ACGIH). Exposure routes: inhalation and ingestion. Acute toxicity: nausea, headache; vomiting; drowsiness; coordination disorders; irritation of the eyes, throat and respiratory tract; chemical burns; oedema; severe skin diseases. Chronic toxicity: skin sensitization; loss of smell; peripheral neuropathy; anaemia; platelet chromosomal changes; increased abortion; leukaemia; stomach cancer.
Noticias de seguridad, Apr. 2001, Vol.63, No.4, 5p. Insert.

2000

CIS 02-58 1-Chloro-2,3-epoxypropane
1-Chloro-2,3-époxypropane [in French]
Chemical safety information sheet. Synonym: chloromethyloxirane. Acute toxicity: depression of the nervous system; severe skin irritation which can give rise to skin burns; liver damage. Chronic toxicity: carcinogen (bronchial cancer, leukaemia); skin allergies. Exposure limit (France): ceiling value = 10mg/m³ (2ppm). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2001. 4p. 18 ref.

CIS 01-528 Preventing worker injuries and deaths from explosions in industrial ethylene oxide sterilization facilities
Between 1994 and 1998, ethylene oxide (EtO) was involved in 10 explosions at industrial sterilization facilities and EtO repackaging plants in the United States. One of these explosions caused one death and 59 injuries among workers. This booklet offers guidance to employers, managers, supervisors, safety professionals and workers on preventing EtO explosions in industrial sterilization facilities. Contents include: properties and health effects of EtO; description of the industrial sterilization process; possible causes of EtO explosions; current standards; case reports; recommendations for workers, employers and EtO manufacturers.
Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Apr. 2000. 32p. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 00-1252
Dutch Expert Committee on Occupational Standards (DECOS)
Epichlorohydrin (1-chloro-2,3-epoxypropane) - Health-based calculated occupational cancer risk values
Main topics covered: survey of carcinogenicity studies suitable for risk estimation in the occupational environment; carcinogenic activity in experimental animals under life-time low-dose exposure conditions; health risk in humans; calculation of health-based occupational cancer risk values; occupational exposure limits. The additional lifetime estimated cancer risk for epichlorohydrin is estimated to be 4 x 10^-5 for 40 years of occupational exposure to 0.19mg/m³ and 4 x 10^-3 for 40 years of occupational exposure to 19mg/m³. The substance is listed as a carcinogen in several countries (e.g., the Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom, Sweden, the United States). Occupational exposure limits range from 1.9mg/m³ (Sweden, USA - ACGIH) to 12mg/m³ (Germany). Summary in Dutch.
Gezondheidsraad, Postbus 16052, 2500 BB Den Haag, Netherlands, Sep. 2000. 32p. 15 ref.

CIS 00-1399 Shaham J., Levi Z., Gurvich R., Shain R., Ribak J.
Hematological changes in hospital workers due to chronic exposure to low levels of ethylene oxide
A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine whether occupational exposure to low levels of ethylene oxide can cause haematological abnormalities. Blood samples were collected from a group of 47 exposed hospital workers and a control group, individually matched by age, sex and smoking habits, consisting of 88 hospital administration employees. Significant differences were found between the exposed and the control group in the frequency of workers with white blood cells lower than the normal range. An elevation in the absolute mean number of monocytes and eosinophils and a decrease in the absolute mean number of lymphocytes in the exposed group compared with the control group was found. An elevation in the percentage of haematocrit and the mean absolute number of the red blood cells, and a decrease in the mean absolute number of platelets, in the exposed group compared with the control group were also observed. A positive dose-response was found between cumulative dose exposure and the absolute mean number of eosinophils.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2000, Vol.42, No.8, p.843-850. Illus. 41 ref.

1999

CIS 00-1328 Kirchhoff R., Schäcke G., Kirchhoff G., Lüth P.
Application of article 9 paragraph 2 of the German Social Code Book 7 to cases involving small-cell bronchial carcinoma following exposure to ethylene oxide
Kleinzelliges Bronchialkarzinom nach Ethylenoxidexposition unter Anwendung von § 9 Absatz 2 SGB VII [in German]
A bronchial carcinoma developed in a worker of a sterilization facility after about ten years of discontinuous exposure to ethylene oxide. Exposure levels in 1975 were significantly higher than they are today. Experimental examinations in human lymphocytes establish that persons who are non-conjugators, namely persons having a low glutathione-S transferase activity, show significantly enhanced formation of sister chromatid exchanges, which is an indication for mutagenic effects of ethylene oxide. Article 9 paragraph 2 of the German Social Code Book 7 (SGB VII) is applicable to the case of this worker, and his small-cell bronchial carcinoma has been recognised as an occupational disease.
Zentralblatt für Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie, July 1999, Vol.49, No.7, p.227-234. 25 ref.

CIS 00-1388 Wesołowski W., Sitarek K.
Occupational exposure to ethylene oxide of hospital staff
Occupational exposure to ethylene oxide was assessed among the workers in direct contact with ethylene oxide or with ethylene oxide-sterilized instruments in 13 hospitals located in the city of Łodź (Poland) and its suburbs. Individual dosimetry and stationary sampling methods were employed. The samples collected from the occupational environment were analysed by gas chromatography with mass detection. The analytical method enabled determination of low ethylene oxide concentrations in the presence of accompanying chemicals, such as ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl ether and isoflurene. In total, 227 determinations were made, and ethylene oxide at concentrations above 0.01mg/m³ (which was the detection limit of the method) was found to be present in 164 samples. The ethylene oxide levels were found to vary widely, from lower than 0.01 of the TLV (STEL: 3mg/m³) to several hundred times.
International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 1999, Vol.12, No.1, p.59-65. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 00-1085
Dutch Expert Committee on Occupational Standards (DECOS)
Diglycidyl resorcinol ether - Health-based calculated occupational cancer risk values
Due to a lack of sufficient data, it is not possible to estimate the additional lifetime cancer risk for resorcinol diglycidyl ether. Main topics covered: carcinogenicity studies and selection of the study suitable for risk estimation in occupational situations; existing occupational exposure limits; toxicity profile (severe skin irritation and sensitization). Summary in Dutch.
Gezondheidsraad, Postbus 16052, 2500 BB Den Haag, Netherlands, 1999. 30p. 9 ref.

CIS 00-793 Pontén A., Bruze M.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from epoxy resins based on bisphenol F
Topics: allergens; aromatic diols; bisphenol F diglycidyl ether polymer; case study; dermatitis; diglycidyl ethers; eczema; epoxy resins; sensitization dermatitis; skin allergies; skin tests.
Contact Dermatitis, Oct. 1999, Vol.41, No.4, p.235. 3 ref.

CIS 99-1959 Boogaard P.J., Rocchi P.S.J., van Sittert N.J.
Biomonitoring of exposure to ethylene oxide and propylene oxide by determination of hemoglobin adducts: Correlations between airborne exposure and adduct levels
To establish correlations between airborne concentrations of ethylene oxide (EO) and propylene oxide (PO) and their haemoglobin (Hb) adducts in petrochemical workers, external occupational exposure to EO and PO was assessed by personal air monitoring (PAM), and internal exposure to EO and PO was assessed by determination of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)valine (HOEtVal) and N-(3-hydroxypropyl)valine (HOPrVal) in blood samples. In a first study, PAM was applied once a month at random over a period of four months. Blood samples for Hb-adduct determination were collected at the end of this period. No significant correlation was found between PAM and Hb-adduct data. In two following studies, PAM was applied to the operators during the entire shift on every working day. Blood samples were collected before and immediately after the study period. Significant correlations were found between the increment in the concentration of HOEtVal and HOPrVal and the total exposure to EO and PO respectively. Time-integrated exposure to EO or PO can be readily and reliably assessed from the concentration of HOEtVal or HOPrVal in a small blood sample. Topics: ethylene oxide; propylene oxide; description of technique; determination in air; determination in blood; dose-response relationship; exposure tests; haemoglobin monitoring; length of exposure; personal sampling.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 1999, Vol.72, No.3, p.142-150. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 99-907 Le Croz C.J., Coninx D., Van Rengen A., El Aboubi S., Ducombs G., Benz M.H., Boursier S., Avenel-Audran M., Verret J.L., Erikstam U., Bruze M., Goossens A.
An epidemic of occupational contact dermatitis from an immersion oil for microscopy in laboratory personnel
Since November 1997, 14 successive cases of occupational contact dermatitis were observed in 13 technicians and 1 physician working in different laboratories. The dermatitis, located on the hands, forearms and face, erupted after each exposure to an immersion oil for microscopy. Patch tests were positive for epoxy resin (ER) in the European standard series (10/10 patients) and to a newly formulated Leica (TM) immersion oil (7/7 patients). 2 patients tested with individual ingredients of the oil demonstrated sensitization to liquid modified ER components, contained at >80% concentration in the oil, including bisphenol A diglycidyl ether. This report of epidemic contact dermatitis from ERs, used in an immersion oil for microscopy, emphasizes the need for perpetual vigilance in occupational medicine and the usefulness of multicentre contacts in dermato-allergology. Topics: bisphenol a diglycidyl ether; case study; eczema; epoxy resins; high performance chromatography; laboratory work; microscopic determination; sensitization; skin allergies; skin tests; thin-layer chromatography.
Contact Dermatitis, Feb. 1999, Vol.40, No.2, p.77-83. lllus. 31 ref.

1998

CIS 01-676 Styrene oxide
Oxyde de styrène [in French]
Oxido de estireno [in Spanish]
International Chemical Safety Card. Exposure routes: inhalation, skin absorption and ingestion. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the skin and eyes; effects on the central nervous system (lowering of consciousness). Long-term exposure effects: prolonged or repeated contact may induce skin sensitization; the substance is possibly a carcinogen. No TLV has been established.
Internet site: http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcs/icstart.html, 1993-1998. Spanish version also from: Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain. 2p. Illus.

CIS 99-935
Dutch Expert Committee on Occupational Standards (Werkgroep van Deskundigen ter Vaststelling van MAC-waarden)
1,2-Epoxybutane - Evaluation of the carcinogenicity and genotoxicity
Summary in Dutch. Topics: butylene oxide; carcinogenic effects; criteria document; mutagenic effects; Netherlands; toxicity evaluation; toxicology.
Gezondheidsraad, Postbus 1236, 2280 CE Rijswijk, Netherlands, 1998. 35p. 18 ref.

CIS 99-525 Romaguera C., Vilaplana J.
Airborne occupational contact dermatitis from ethylene oxide
Case studies of two nurses and two assistants with contact dermatitis following an escape of ethylene oxide gas during the sterilization of hospital linen. Topics: asthma; ethylene oxide; case study; disinfectants; eczema; health care personnel; hospitals; irritants; itch; rhinitis.
Contact Dermatitis, Aug. 1998, Vol.39, No.2, p.85. 13 ref.

CIS 98-1332 Morris A.D., Ratcliffe J., Dalziel K.L., English J.S.C.
Allergic contact dermatitis from epoxy propane
Topics: allergens; propylene oxide; case study; dermatitis; eczema; epoxy resins; laboratory work; sensitization dermatitis; skin tests; United Kingdom.
Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 1998, Vol.38, No.1, p.57. Illus. 2 ref.

1997

CIS 00-197 Rosell Farrás M.G., Arias Carballo M.P.
Ethylene oxide: Exposure prevention in hospitals
Óxido de etileno: prevención de la exposición en hospitales [in Spanish]
Topics: carcinogens; ethylene oxide; data sheet; disinfection of equipment; health care personnel; hospitals; limitation of exposure; Spain; threshold limit values; toxic substances.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1997. 4p. 5 ref.

CIS 98-32 Epichlorohydrin
Epiclorohidrina [in Spanish]
Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Topics: chemical burns; data sheet; delayed effects; dermatitis; determination in air; elimination of spills; epichlorohydrin; explosion hazards; fire fighting; fire hazards; first aid; health hazards; hepatic damage; irritation; limitation of exposure; lung diseases; medical supervision; personal protective equipment; renal damage; respirators; skin absorption; USA; waste disposal.
Noticias de seguridad, Feb. 1997, Vol.59, No.2. 4p. Insert.

CIS 98-201 Estlander T., Jolanki R., Kanerva L.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from 2,3-epoxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (EPTMAC) and Kathon® LX in a starch modification factory
Topics: glycidyltrimethylammonium chloride; eczema; Finland; fungicides; pulp and paper industry; sensitization dermatitis; skin allergies; skin tests; starch.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 1997, Vol.36, No.4, p.191-194. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 98-219
Dutch Expert Committee on Occupational Standards (Werkgroep van Deskundigen ter Vaststelling van MAC-waarden)
Propylene oxide - Health-based calculated occupational cancer risk values
Topics: carcinogenic effects; carcinogens; propylene oxide; criteria document; Netherlands; threshold limit values; toxicity evaluation; toxicology.
Gezondheidsraad, Postbus 5406, 2280 HK Rijswijk, Netherlands, 1997. 29p. 22 ref.

1996

CIS 97-1827 Allyl glycidyl ether
Eter alilglicidílico [in Spanish]
Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may cause dermatitis and skin sensitization; may have neurotoxic effects (central nervous system).
Noticias de seguridad, Nov. 1996, Vol.58, No.11. 5p. Insert.

CIS 97-1283
Dutch Expert Committee on Occupational Standards (Werkgroep van Deskundigen ter Vaststelling van MAC-waarden)
Bisphenol A and its diglycidylether: Health based recommended occupational exposure limits
In this report the Dutch Committee on Occupational Standards discusses the consequences of occupational exposure to bisphenol A and its diglycidyl ether and recommends occupational exposure limits. Main conclusions: in humans, bisphenol A causes mild irritation of the skin, eyes, nose and throat; the diglycidyl ether is a skin sensitizer. Recommended occupational exposure limits for both substances (8h TWA): 10 mg/m³ for substances in the form of inhalable dust, and 5mg/m³ for respirable dust. Skin contact with bisphenol A diglycidyl ether should be avoided. Summary in Dutch.
Gezondheidsraad, Postbus 90517, 2509 LM Den Haag, Netherlands, 1996. 110p. 108 ref.

CIS 97-835 Martínex Romero M.C., et al.
Cytogenetic monitoring of hospital personnel occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation, ethylene oxide and cytostatic drugs
Monitorización citogenética de profesionales de hospital expuestos ocupacionalmente a radiaciones ionizantes, óxido de etileno y citostáticos [in Spanish]
The aim of this study was to evaluate cytogenetic damage in 64 hospital workers exposed to ionizing radiation (42), ethylene oxide (14) and cytostatic drugs (8). The study also involved 30 non-exposed workers from the same hospitals. Chromosome aberrations (CA) and the sister chromatid exchange method (SCE) were used for genotoxicity assessment. CA frequency is incremented in both the group exposed to radiation and to cytostatics, but not significantly. SCE frequency is significantly higher in the group exposed to ethylene oxide. In addition, the frequency of CA and SCE is incremented in smokers.
Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, 1996, Vol.43, No.168, p.37-45. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 97-773 1,2-Butylene oxide
Data sheet. May enter the body when breathed in. May cause mutations and damage the developing foetus and should be handled with extreme caution. May irritate the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. May cause lightheadedness and fainting. It is a flammable and reactive chemical.
New Jersey Department of Health, Right to Know Program, CN 368, Trenton, NJ 08625-0368, USA, 1996. 6p.

CIS 97-752 Propylene oxide
Data sheet. May enter the body when breathed in. It is a carcinogen and should be handled with extreme caution. May burn the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. May damage the eyes and lungs and lead to pneumonia. May cause dizziness, lightheadedness and fainting. It is a highly flammable and reactive chemical.
New Jersey Department of Health, Right to Know Program, CN 368, Trenton, NJ 08625-0368, USA, 1996. 6p.

CIS 97-575 Angelini G., Rigano L., Foti C., Grandolfo M., Veña G.A., Bonamonte D., Soleo L., Scorpiniti A.
Occupational sensitization to epoxy resin and reactive diluents in marble workers
Ten out of 22 marble workers handling a resin containing epoxy resin and ortho-cresyl glycidyl ether (CGE) developed contact dermatitis and airborne contact dermatitis within 20 days to 2 months of exposure. The 10 symptomatic subjects all showed positive patch test reactions to the reactive diluent CGE and four of them also to epoxy resin. Some other glycidyl ethers also gave positive reactions. Possible sensitization mechanisms are discussed. The problem was partly solved by changing the type of glycidyl ether and installing exhaust ventilation along the resination line.
Contact Dermatitis, July 1996, Vol.35, No.1, p.11-16. 17 ref.

CIS 97-172 Granath F., Rohlén O., Göransson C., Hansson L., Magnusson A.L., Törnqvist M.
Relationship between dose in vivo of ethylene oxide and exposure to ethene studied in exposed workers
In vivo doses of ethylene oxide (EO) arising from ethylene exposure in plastics industry workers were estimated through haemoglobin adducts, determined in samples collected on one occasion in exposed groups. Exposure doses were estimated by using data from the hygienic surveillance programme. The results of this and of a second study with repeated blood sampling in a few persons show a metabolic conversion of ethylene to ethylene oxide of only 0.5%, which is unexpectedly low. The cancer risk associated with ethylene exposure was also estimated. The estimated risk of cancer due to this level of life-long exposure to ethene is 1 x 10^-5 per year.
Human and Experimental Toxicology, 1996, Vol.15, p.826-833. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 96-922 James D., Cain J., White J.
Health and Safety Executive
Propylene oxide - Criteria document for an occupational exposure limit
Main conclusions of this criteria document: there is evidence that propylene oxide can produce severe eye irritation and skin sensitization in humans. No other conclusions can be drawn regarding toxicity, mutagenicity or carcinogenicity. Proposed maximum exposure limit: 5ppm (8h TWA).
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1996. v, 38p. 83 ref. Price: GBP 10.00.

1995

CIS 97-958 Beije B.
The Nordic Expert Group for Criteria Documentation of Health Risks from Chemicals. 117. Propene
Propene (propylene, PE) is an important industrial chemical which is also present as a contaminant in urban air and cigarette smoke. PE is metabolized to propylene oxide (PO), which binds to macromolecules, i.e. haemoglobin and DNA. PE is an asphyxiant. Human data are scarce. Inhalation of PE on a long-term basis gives rise to non-neoplastic toxic changes in the nasal cavity of rats, but not of mice. In male mice there is a higher incidence of chronic focal renal inflammation. In female mice there is a higher incidence of uterine endometrial stromal polyps and, to a lesser extent, haemangiosarcoma as well as haemangiosarcoma and haemangioma combined. There are limited data on the potential health hazard to humans due to PE exposure. However, as a metabolite, PO is carcinogenic in experimental animals. It is not possible at the present time to rule out PE as a human carcinogen.
Arbetsmiljöinstitutet, Förlagstjänst, 171 84 Solna, Sweden, 1995. 38p. 115 ref.

CIS 96-257 Verraes S., Michel O.
Occupational asthma induced by ethylene oxide
This brief communication describes a case of occupational asthma in a surgeon following the use of sterile powdered latex gloves. Sensitivity testing showed no allergic reaction to the latex or the glove powder but suggested sensitization to ethylene oxide gas which was used to sterilize the gloves and was probably absorbed by the glove powder.
Lancet, 25 Nov. 1995, Vol.346, No.8987, p.1434-1435. 2 ref.

CIS 96-281
Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA)
Ethylene oxide
Conclusions of this criteria document, translation of a report finalized in February 1993: ethylene oxide may be absorbed by inhalation or through the skin. Acute exposure may cause irritation, erythema, oedema, blistering, corneal opalescence and respiratory obstruction. Inhalation and skin absorption may also cause systemic effects such as disorders of the central nervous system, breathing difficulties and dysrhythmia. Chronic exposure has also been reported to cause irritation and central nervous system symptoms. An increased rate of leukaemia and gastric carcinoma has been demonstrated in isolated studies but has not been verified in others. Several cases of sensitization have been reported.
S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1995. xviii, 103p. Bibl.ref.

CIS 95-1812 Simonsen L., Midtgård U., Lund S.P., Hass U.
Nordic Council of Ministers
Occupational neurotoxicity: Evaluation of neurotoxicity data for selected chemicals
Previously determined criteria for evaluating published data on the neurotoxicity of chemicals (see CIS 95-000) were applied to the literature on 79 common industrial chemicals. Data were too sparse to permit classification of 28. Of the rest, eight were classified as probably and 16 as possibly neurotoxic, and the following 27 as definitely neurotoxic: acrylamide, acrylonitrile, aluminium, arsenic, sodium azide, borax, boric acid, carbon monoxide, carbon disulfide, potassium cyanide, ethanol, ethylene oxide, hexachlorophene, manganese, mercury, methanol, methyl bromide, methyl butyl ketone (2-hexanone), methyl chloride, methyl methacrylate, n-hexane, nitrous oxide, styrene, thallium, toluene, trichloroethylene, triorthocresyl phosphate.
National Institute of Occupational Health, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 København Ø, Denmark, 1995. 119p. Bibl.ref.

1994

CIS 95-2140 Fuchs J., Wullenweber U., Hengstler J.G., Bienfait H.G., Hiltl G., Oesch F.
Genotoxic risk for humans due to work place exposure to ethylene oxide: Remarkable individual differences in susceptibility
Single strand breaks of DNA of peripheral mononuclear blood cells from 97 workers exposed to ethylene oxide were analyzed by the alkaline elution method. The maximum concentration of ethylene oxide detected in the air was 16.5mg/m³ calculated as 4-h time-weighted average (4h TWA). Compared to the mean elution rate of the DNA from non-smoking workers exposed to air concentrations of ethylene oxide below the detection limit of 0.1mg/m³ (4h TWA) the non-smokers working in rooms with a concentration of ethylene oxide between 0.5mg/m³ and 2mg/m³ showed a statistically significant (P<0.05) 119% higher mean elution rate and even for the non-smokers exposed to 0.1-0.5mg/m³ of ethylene oxide a statistically significant (P<0.05) 53% higher mean elution rate was observed. In the majority of the non-smokers (67%) approximately 5-fold more DNA strand breaks were induced by ethylene oxide than in the other non-smokers.
Archives of Toxicology, 1994, Vol.68, No.6, p.343-348. 36 ref. Illus.

CIS 95-1739 Lanes S.F., Rothman K.J., Soden K.J., Amsel J., Dreyer N.A.
Mortality among synthetic fiber workers exposed to glycerol polyglycidyl ether
A mortality study was carried out among 8878 employees at a synthetic fibres plant that used a finishing agent containing glycerol polyglycidyl ether. No clear carcinogenic effects of glycerol polyglycidyl ether were identified, but plausible induction periods had not yet elapsed. Deaths from lung cancer appeared to be unrelated to exposure. An association for lymphoma and myeloma was based on only seven cases, although risk estimates increased with duration of exposure. Limitations of the study are discussed.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1994, Vol.25, no.5, p.689-696. 5 ref.

CIS 95-1764 Olsen G.W., Lacy S.E., Chamberlin S.R., Albert D.L., Arceneaux T.G., Bullard L.F., Stafford B.A., Boswell J.M.
Retrospective cohort mortality study of workers with potential exposure to epichlorohydrin and allyl chloride
Mortality experience was examined among 1064 workers involved in the production or use of epichlorohydrin and allyl chloride between 1957 and 1986. A follow-up study in 1989 showed no increase in mortality due to all malignant neoplasms, lung cancer, circulatory system disease or arteriosclerotic heart disease. Results are not consistent with an earlier hypothesis that epichlorohydrin exposure is associated with lung cancer and, in conjunction with allyl chloride exposure, to heart disease mortality. Limitations of the study are discussed.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 1994, Vol.25, No.2, p.205-218. 34 ref.

CIS 95-984 Jargot D., Blachère V., Cassebras M., Dieudonné M., Hecht C., Mattlet M.F.
Evidence for low-molecular-weight glycidyl derivatives in epoxy resins
Mise en évidence de dérivés glycidyliques de bas poids moléculaire dans les résines époxydiques [in French]
The presence of glycidyl ethers and oligomers is the reason for the cutaneous toxicity of certain epoxy resins. This study helped to develop an analysis protocol for identifying and determining low molecular weight (M<700) oligomers and 16 glycidyl ethers present in the products available on the French market. The analytical method and techniques were applied to some thirty resin samples supplied by manufacturers and formulators or sampled in the workplace. It is therefore possible to determine or verify the composition of a non-polymerized epoxy resin suspected of being responsible for an occupational pathology, and subsequently to carry out more specific allergological tests to identify the exact allergen responsible.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 1994, No.157, Note No.1973-157-94, p.443-450. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 95-997 Wendling J.M., Dietemann A., Oster J.P., Pauli G.
Occupational allergy to ethylene oxide: A case study
Allergie professionnelle à l'oxyde d'éthylène - A propos d'une observation [in French]
An isolated case of allergy to ethylene oxide in a midwife, without allergy to latex and confirmed by skin tests and provocation tests, is reported. The difficulties to confirm the diagnosis and the interpretation of the provocation tests are discussed.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1994, Vol.55, No.4, p.287-289. 15 ref.

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