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Ethers - 423 entries found

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2011

CIS 12-0026 Martin P., Galland B., Nicot T., Klingler J., Martin C., Vignaud M.C.
Exposure to organic solvents when placing electrodes for long-term electroencephalograms
Exposition aux solvants organiques lors de la pose d'électrodes pour électroencéphalogrammes de longue durée [in French]
Nurses responsible for placing and removing electrodes for long-term electroencephalograms use adhesives and adhesive removers which may contain varying proportions of volatile and unpleasant ethanol and diethyl ether. In this study, exposure to ethanol and diethyl ether was measured at several workplaces. Findings allowed to better understand the exposures of nursing personnel during specific tasks and to propose a number of preventive measures to be applied.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 3rd Quarter 2011, No.127, p.397-408. Illus. 6 ref.
Exposition_aux_solvants_organiques_[INTERNET_FREE_ACCESS] [in French]

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 03-1800 Risk assessment report for existing substances - Methyl tertiary-butyl ether
This report presents a comprehensive risk assessment of methyl t-butyl ether (MTBE). MTBE is not dangerous to aquatic and other environmental organisms. The toxicokinetic data in experimental animals do not give any reasons for concern with regard to bioaccumulation of MTBE or its metabolites, effects on the central nervous system, genotoxicity or potential effects on reproduction. For human health, skin and respiratory irritation are regarded as the primary concern. The overall conclusion for the risk assessment of MTBE is that there is a need for further information and/or testing.
European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of Chemicals, Avenue E. Van Nieuwenhuyse 4, Bte. 6, 1160 Bruxelles, Belgium, Dec. 2003. 288p. Approx. 370 ref.

CIS 03-1070 Dichloroisopropyl ether
International Chemical Safety Card. Exposure routes: inhalation and ingestion. Short-term exposure effects: insufficient data available therefore utmost care must be taken. Long-term exposure effects: defats the skin. Threshold limit value not established. Synonyms: 2,2'-oxybis(1-chloropropane); dichlorodiisopropyl ether.
Internet documents, 2003, 2p.
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/products/icsc/dtasht/_icsc04/icsc0435.pdf [in English]

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.

2002

CIS 03-1078 Dipropyl ether
Ether dipropylique [in French]
International Chemical Safety Card published in 2002. Exposure routes: inhalation. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract; exposure at high levels may cause lowering of consciousness. Long-term exposure effects: defatting of the skin. Threshold limit value not established. Synonym: 1,1'-oxybispropane.
Internet documents, 2002, 2p.
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/products/icsc/dtasht/_icsc04/icsc0468.pdf [in English]
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcsnfrn/nfrn0468.html [in French]

CIS 03-1074 Dimethyl ether
Ether diméthylique [in French]
International Chemical Safety Card published in 2002. Exposure routes: inhalation. Short term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract; frostbite; effects on the central nervous system; exposure to high levels may cause lowering of consciousness. Threshold limit value: OEL as TWA: 1000ppm; 1920mg/m3 (EU 2002). Synonyms: methyl ether; oxybismethane; wood ether; methoxymethane.
Internet documents, 2002, 2p.
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/products/icsc/dtasht/_icsc04/icsc0454.pdf [in English]
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcsnfrn/nfrn0454.html [in French]

CIS 03-58 Bonnard N., Brondeau M.T., Falcy M., Jargot D., Protois J.C., Schneider O.
Methyl tert-butyl oxide (MTBE)
Oxyde de tert-butyle et de méthyle (MTBE) [in French]
Chemical safety information sheet. Synonyms: 2-methoxy-2-methylpropane; MTBE. The acute toxicity of MTBE is low. At high concentrations, it causes hypoactivity, depression of the central nervous system and ataxia. It is a moderate skin irritant and a weak eye irritant. It causes respiratory irritation. It is not a skin sensitizer. There is very limited data on human chronic toxicity. At high repeated concentrations in rats, the substance causes damage to the central nervous system, irritation of the gastro-intestinal and respiratory tracts, slight modifications of serum parameters and chronic nephropathy among males. Since most in vitro or in vivo genotoxicity tests are negative, MTBE is presumed to be non-mutagenic. It has no effects on reproductive health. Exposure limits: USA (ACGIH): TWA = 40ppm; Germany (MAK): TWA = 180mg/m3 or 50ppm. EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.216-653-1; F, Xi; R11, R38, S9, S16, S24. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 02-1407.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, CD-ROM CD 613, 2002. 6p. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 02-1836 Saarinen L.
Recent development of exposure to gasoline in the distribution chain
Gasoline is a complex mixture of aliphatic and cyclo-aliphatic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons (primarily benzene) and methyl t-butyl ether (MTBE). The objective of this study was to evaluate the exposure to these substances among tank truck drivers delivering gasoline to service stations as well as harbour and storage depot workers. Samples were collected in the workers' breathing zone. Tank truck drivers typically are involved in three loading or unloading operations per day, lasting an average of half an hour. During these tasks, the concentration of C3-C11 hydrocarbons, MTBE and benzene varied between 5-500, 1-20mg/m3 and 0.25-17.5mg/m3 respectively. The exposure of harbour and depot workers was significantly lower. Exposure levels have decreased considerably in recent years with the introduction of vapour recovery systems.
Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Publication Office, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2002. 68p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 97-58 Dimethyl ether
Data sheet. May enter the body when breathed in. Irritates the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. May cause headache, dizziness and lightheadedness. May cause severe frostbite. It is a highly flammable liquid or gas and a fire hazard.
New Jersey Department of Health, Right to Know Program, CN 368, Trenton, NJ 08625-0368, USA, 1996, 2002. 6p.
http://www.state.nj.us/health/eoh/rtkweb/0758.pdf [in English]

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 03-1067 Bis(2-chloroethyl) ether
Oxyde de bis(2-chloroéthyle) [in French]
International Chemical Safety Card published in 2000. Exposure routes: inhalation, skin absorption and ingestion. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract; inhalation of vapour may cause pulmonary oedema; exposure far above OEL may cause death; effects may be delayed. Long-term exposure effects: prolonged or repeated skin contact may induce dermatitis. Threshold limit value: 5ppm (TWA); 10ppm (STEL); A4 (skin). Synonyms: dichloroethyl ether; 2,2'-dichloroethyl ether; 1,1'-oxybis(2-chloro)ethane; sym-dichloroethyl ether; diethylene glycol dichloride.
Internet documents, 2000, 2p.
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/products/icsc/dtasht/_icsc04/icsc0417.htm [in English]
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcsnfrn/nfrn0417.pdf [in French]

CIS 02-1134
German Chemical Society - GDCh-Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals (BUA)
Diphenylamine (No.15); Bis(2-chloroethyl)ether (No.21); Naphthalene (No.39); Tetrachloromethane (No.45); Biphenyl (No.50); N,N-Dimethylaniline (No.91); Trichloroethene (No.95); Hexachlorobenzene (No.119); Bisphenol A (no.203)
These short reports concern 9 substances suspected of having a hazardous potential, but for which available data are insufficient. The purpose of these reports is to establish a basis for assessment, identify gaps in knowledge and recommend areas for further investigation.
S. Hirzel Wissenschaftliche Verlagsgesellschaft mbH, Birkenwaldstrasse 44, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany, 2000. 136p. Bibl.ref.

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 00-1564 Isopropyl ether
Éter isopropílico [in Spanish]
Chemical safety information sheet published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Exposure limits: 500ppm or 2100mg/m3 8h-TWA (OSHA); 250ppm (ACGIH). Toxicity: irritation of mucous membranes, skin and eyes; sleepiness; vertigo; unconsciousness.
Noticias de seguridad, Sep. 2000, Vol.62, No.9. 4p. Insert.

CIS 00-1558 Mixture of diphenyl ether and diphenyl
Mixtura de éter fenílico y difenilo [in Spanish]
Chemical safety information sheet published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Exposure limits: 7mg/m3 or 1ppm 8h-TWA (OSHA); 1ppm or 0.5ppm as vapour (ACGIH). Toxicity: irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract; dermatitis; nausea.
Noticias de seguridad, June 2000, Vol.62, No.6. 4p. Insert.

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.

CIS 00-469 Finch T.M., Muncaster A., Prais L., Foulds I.S.
Occupational airborne allergic contact dermatitis from isoflurane vapour
Case report of a non-atopic anaesthetist with periorbital erythema and oedema who was initially patch tested to a standard series of products used in hospitals. He showed positive reaction to a number of allergens, including cetrimide. Despite strict avoidance of all the identified allergens, he remained symptomatic. The history suggested isoflurane could be responsible for this allergy. Repeated open application tests (ROAT) gave a positive result. The patient could not totally exclude occupational exposure isoflurane vapour; however, the use of protective eye wear has improved his symptoms.
Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 2000, Vol.42, No.1, p.46. 5 ref.

1999

CIS 01-1334 1,4,-Dioxane
1,4-Dioxane [in French]
Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 89-1120. Acute toxicity: skin absorption; strong irritation of eyes and respiratory tract. Chronic toxicity: hepatic and renal damage; carcinogenic in experimental animals. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 35mg/m3 (10ppm); ceiling limit = 140mg/m3 (40ppm). EC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.603-024-00-5; Xn, F, R11, R19, R36/37, R40, S18, S35/37, 204-661-8. 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, CD-ROM CD 613, May 2000. Rev.ed. 4p. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 01-341 Diethyl ether
Oxyde de diéthyle [in French]
Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 88-1795. Acute toxicity: irritation of the respiratory tract; inhalation anaesthetic. Chronic toxicity: digestive disorders; headache; polypnoea; dryness of the skin. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 400ppm (1200mg/m3); ceiling value = 500ppm (1500mg/m3). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.603-022-00-4; Xn, F+, R12, R19, R22, R66, R67, S9, S16, S29, S33, 200-467-2.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., 1999. 5p. Illus. 28 ref.

CIS 01-33 Brondeau M.T., Falcy M., Jargot D., Miraval S., Protois J.C., Reynier M., Schneider O.
Diethyl oxide
Oxyde de diéthyle [in French]
Diethyl ether (synomym: diethyl oxide) is an anaesthetic. Acute toxicity: irritation of the respiratory tract; narcosis; excitement or somnolence; vomiting; reduced pulse rate and body temperature; ingestion induces similar effects to state of intoxication similar to that when under the influence of alcohol. Chronic toxicity: gastro-intestinal disorders; headache; polypnoea. French exposure limits: 400ppm (1200mg/m3) (VME); 500ppm (1500mg/m3) (VLE).
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 1999, No.177, p.149-153. Illus. 28 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/dossiers/fichtox/ft10.pdf [in French]

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 00-1060 Hoerauf K., Lierz M., Wiesner G., Schroegendorfer K., Lierz P., Spacek A., Brunnberg L., Nüsse M.
Genetic damage in operating room personnel exposed to isoflurane and nitrous oxide
To evaluate possible genetic damage in lymphocytes, exposure of operating room personnel to waste anaesthetic gases was measured. Venous blood samples were drawn and lymphocytes were cultured. The operating room personnel at the hospital were exposed to an 8-hour time weighted average of 12.8ppm nitrous oxide and 5.3ppm isoflurane. The mean sister chromatid exchange frequency was significantly higher in exposed workers than controls; the proportion of micronuclei was also higher but not significant. Exposure even to trace concentrations of waste anaesthetic gases may cause dose-dependent genetic damage. Concerning the micronuclei test, no clastogenic potential could be detected after average chronic exposure to waste anaesthetic gas. However, an increased frequency of sister chromatid exchanges in human lymphocytes could be detected.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 1999, Vol.56, No.7, p.433-437. Illus. 28 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 01-677 Vinyl ethyl ether
Vinyl éthyl éther [in French]
Vinil etil éter [in Spanish]
International Chemical Safety Card. Exposure route: inhalation. Short-term exposure effects: effects on the central nervous system resulting in unconsciousness. 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 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 99-1301
International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS)
Methyl tertiary-butyl ether
Summaries in French and Spanish. Topics: methyl t-butyl ether; criteria document; ecotoxicology; ILO; IPCS; literature survey; motor fuel; petroleum refining; toxic effects; toxicology; UNEP; WHO.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1998. xix, 199p. Illus. approx. 230 ref. Price: CHF 42.00 (CHF 29.40 in developing countries).

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 99-555 Vainiotalo S., Pekari K., Aitio A.
Exposure to methyl tert-butyl ether and tert-amyl methyl ether from gasoline during tank lorry loading and its measurement using biological monitoring
The exposure of Finnish tank lorry drivers to methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) and tert-amyl methyl ether (TAME) during loading of gasoline was studied using biological and breathing-zone sampling. Breathing-zone measurements showed low levels of exposure to the two oxygenates, the concentrations being well below current hygienic standards for MTBE. The linear correlations obtained for MTBE suggest that MTBE in blood or urine can be adopted as a valid biological exposure index. Topics: air sampling; methyl t-butyl ether; motor fuel; tert-amyl methyl ether; determination in blood; determination in urine; dose-response relationship; drivers; exposure evaluation; exposure tests; personal sampling; tank trucks.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 1998, Vol.71, No.6, p.391-396. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 99-624
Fire Protection Association
Vinyl ethyl ether
Topics: vinyl ethyl ether; data sheet; explosion hazards; fire fighting; fire hazards; flammable liquids; health hazards; hepatic damage; irritants; legislation; storage; United Kingdom; warning notices.
Jan.-Feb. 1998, No.306, p.51-52.

CIS 99-623
Fire Protection Association
Diallyl ether
Topics: diallyl ether; data sheet; explosion hazards; fire fighting; fire hazards; flammable liquids; health hazards; irritants; legislation; storage; United Kingdom; warning notices.
Fire Prevention, Oct. 1998, No.313, 2p. Insert.

CIS 99-543 Miazek-Kula M.
Bis(2-chloroethyl) ether
Eter bis(2-chloroetylowy) [in Polish]
Topics: bis(2-chloroethyl) ether; description of technique; determination in air; gas chromatography; sampling and analysis.
Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 1998, Vol.19, p.77-81. 4 ref.

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