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Ethylene oxide - 276 entries found

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  • Ethylene oxide

1987

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.

CIS 88-912 Cumins K.J., Schultz G.R., Lee J.S., Nelson J.H., Reading J.C.
Development and evaluation of a hydrobromic acid-coated sampling tube for measuring occupational exposures to ethylene oxide
Charcoal is coated with hydrobromic acid, which reacts with ethylene oxide to form 2-bromoethanol. The reaction product is desorbed with dimethylformamide and derivatized with heptafluorobutyrylimidazole. Quantitative determination is done on a gas chromatograph with electron capture detector. The sensitivity of the method is 0.1ppm.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1987, Vol.48, No.6, p.563-573. Illus. 34 ref.

CIS 88-798 Epichlorohydrin health and safety guide
Chemical safety information sheet based on WHO Environmental Health Criteria 33: Epichlorohydrin (CIS 86-120). Toxicity: irritant; corrosive; animal carcinogen; neurotoxic.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1987. 44p. Illus. Price: CHF 5.00.

CIS 88-395 Epichlorohydrin (ECH) and epoxy resins (EC)
Epichlorhydrine (ECH) et résines époxides (EP) [in French]
Chemical safety information sheet. Covers epichlorohydrin (ECH) and high and low molecular weight epoxy resins. Hazards from ERs are mainly toxic fumes from burning resins, dermatitis and sensitisation from contact with low molecular weight ERs. ECH is flammable and its vapours can form explosive mixtures with air. Toxicity of ECH: powerful irritant to eyes, skin and respiratory tract; depression of the central nervous system; allergen and sensitiser; inhalation can lead to pulmonary oedema; kidney damage; suspected carcinogen. Exposure limit: (ACGIH, 1986-87) TLV-TWA = 10mg/m3 (ACGIH TLVs are used as official exposure limits in Belgium).
Association nationale pour le prévention des accidents du travail, Rue Gachard 88, Bte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, mar.-apr. 1987. 19p. 76 réf.

CIS 88-241 Jolanski R., Estlander T., Kanerva L.
Contact allergy to an epoxy reactive diluent: 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether
Three female workers in a brush factory developed contact allergy from a 2-component epoxy glue containing epoxy resin (37% by weight), reactive diluents, i.e. 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDGE) 3%, glycidyl ethers of aliphatic alcohols (Epoxide 8) 0.05% and phenyl glycidyl ether (PGE) 0.01% and inert fillers. All 3 patients were positive to the resin component of the glue and to BDDGE, indicating that BDDGE was the main allergen. Two of the patients reacted to PGE, but none to Epoxide 8. Two of the patients did not react to epoxy resin, indicating that BDDGE may be an even stronger sensitiser in humans than epoxy resin, and that it does not cross-react with epoxy resins. Permeation studies revealed that BDDGE penetrates disposable PVC and rubber gloves in less than 30min. Thus, contaminated gloves should be replaced immediately. Reactive diluents should be included in patch test series if contact allergy to epoxy products is suspected.
Contact Dermatitis, Feb. 1987, Vol.16, No.2, p.87-92. 19 ref.

CIS 88-240 Fischer T., Fregert S., Thulin I., Trulsson L.
Unhardened epoxy resin in tool handles
An electrician developed hand eczema when using certain screwdrivers, and reacted to epoxy resin in patch tests. Although the screwdriver handles were nominally made of cellulose acetate, the manufacturer reported that small amounts of epoxidised soybean oil and low-molecular-weight bisphenol A-type epoxy resin were included in the material as heat stabilisers. A survey of plastic tool handles showed that only a limited number of the cellulose acetate handles contained epoxy compounds.
Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 1987, Vol.16, No.1, p.45. 2 ref.

1986

CIS 89-1324
Sovet Ėkonomičeskoj Vzaimopomo¿či
Occupational Safety and Health - Methods for determining chemical substances in workplace air
Gigiena truda i professional'nye zabolevanija - Metody opredelenija himičeskih veščestv v vozduhe rabočej zony [in Russian]
Methods for the determination of the following hazardous substances in workplace air: dimethyl sulfate, norbornene polychlorinated biphenyls, benzidine, p-chlorophenol, carbon monoxide, chloroacetophenone, water-soluble chromium compounds, tetraethyllead, oil aerosols, epichlorohydrin, volatile hydrocarbons from cutting fluids, solvent naphtha. The gas chromatographic and photometric methods have been adopted as official methods of the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance.
Izdatel'skij otdel, Upravlenija delami Sekretariata SĖV, prospekt Kalinina 56, 121205 Moskva, USSR, 1986. 49p.

CIS 89-546 Pokrovskaja E.A., Antonjuženko V.A., Volkova I.O., Aširova S.A., Zoloto L.V., Alieva T.I.
Effects on workers of a complex of chemicals released during the preparation of polyurethane foam insulation in the manufacture of refrigerators
Vlijanie na organizm rabotajuščih kompleksa himičeskih veščestv, vydeljajuščihsja pri polučenii penopoliuretanovoj izoljacii v proizvodstve holodil'nikov [in Russian]
Hygienic studies of the working environment in shops for polyurethane foam insulation production revealed contamination with a mixture of chemicals that fall in hazard classes II-IV (dimethylethanolamine, propylene oxide, methylene chloride, 4,4-diphenylmethanediisocyanate). Medical examinations of the exposed workers demonstrated the potential risk of developing an occupational pathology. Changes in the upper respiratory tract were the major initial symptoms; later, nervous system disorders developed. These deviations in the workers' health were seen against a background of changes in their immune status.
Gigiena truda i professional'nye zabolevanija, Dec. 1986, No.12, p.20-23. 6 ref.

CIS 89-416 Ethylene oxide
Chemical safety information sheet. Highly volatile and flammable liquid; burns in the absence of oxygen. Exposure limit: ACGIH TLV = 20mg/m3. Toxicity: cold burns on contact; irritates eyes; toxic effects after inhalation are delayed.
Indian Chemical Manufacturers Association, India Exchange, India Exchange Place, Calcutta 700 001, India, 1986. 1p.

CIS 88-1261 Jolanki R., Estlander T., Kanerva L.
Occupational skin diseases caused by epoxy products
Epoksi-ihottumat ammatti-ihotauteina [in Finnish]
Over a 10-year period (1974-1983) 1,082 cases of occupational skin diseases were disagnosed. There were 542 cases of allergic contact dermatitis, 510 cases of irritant contact dermatitis, and 30 cases of other skin diseases. Epoxy products caused 71 cases (13.1%) of allergic contact dermatitis, 3 cases (0.6%) of irritant contact dermatitis and 1 case of contact urticaria. All but 3 of the 71 patients with allergic contact dermatitis had contact allergy to bisphenol A-type epoxy resins. The case of urticaria was caused by the hardener methyl hexahydrophthalic anhydride. Bisphenol A-type epoxy resin oligomer with a molecular weight (MW) of 340 is a strong allergen. Although solid epoxy resins (those with average MW above 700) have been considered safe from the allergenic point of view, 6 cases of allergic contact dermatitis and 3 cases of irritant contact dermatitis were caused by solid epoxy resins. All 3 cases of irritant contact dermatitis were due to solid bisphenol A-type epoxy resins.
Työterveyslaitoksen tutkimuksia, 1986, Vol.4, No.1, p.47-54. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 88-1260 Henriks-Eckerman M.L., Laijoki T.
Glycidyl ethers in epoxy resin products
Epoksituotteiden sisältämät glysidyylieetterit [in Finnish]
The most important sensitiser is the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (molecular weight 340). Most glycidyl ethers used as reactive diluents are also sensitisers. Thirty-one liquid and solid epoxy resin products were studied: resins, paints and adhesives. Glycidyl ethers were analysed by gas chromatography. The liquid resins contained 42-82% diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A, the solid resins 1-16%. Epoxy resins for coatings contained 0.2-30% diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A. Correspondingly, this ether constituted 18-76% of epoxy resin adhesives. More than half of the epoxy products studied contained varying amounts of reactive diluents (0.1-20%); over 10% reactive diluent was found in 2 modified epoxy resins. Epoxy resin products may contain sensitising glycidyl ethers, even when these are not mentioned in the information given for the product.
Työterveyslaitoksen tutkimuksia, 1986, Vol.4, No.1, p.41-46. Illus. 4 ref.

CIS 88-1259 Henriks-Eckerman M.L., Laijoki T.
Aliphatic polyamines and epoxy oligomers in cold-cured epoxy products
Alifaattisten polyamiinien ja epoksioligomeerien sitoutuminen kylmäkovettumisessa [in Finnish]
The aim of this study was to follow the cold cure of the epoxy resin-hardener system. The amount of unreacted epoxy oligomer of molecular weight (MW) 340 and aliphatic polyamine hardener (diethylenetriamine) was analysed as a function of curing time (5h to 2 months). Six different compounds were extracted into acetone and determined by liquid chromatography. The amount of unreacted compounds decreased rapidly within 1-2 days. After 2-3 days curing the amount of unreacted compounds decreased only slowly as a function of curing time. After 1 week of cure the products contained 0.02-12% unreacted oligomer and 0.01-1% unreacted polyamine. Results show that it is important to protect skin and lungs from the dust of freshly cured epoxy resin products in order to minimise sensitisation risks.
Työterveyslaitoksen tutkimuksia, 1986, Vol.4, No.1, p.37-40. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 87-1405 Medical monitoring of workers exposed to ethylene oxide
This guideline for the prevention of adverse effects includes: background on the compound; entry, metabolism, and excretion; health effects (acute and chronic exposure); neoplastic, teratogenic and mutagenic effects; medical monitoring.
Alberta Community and Occupational Health, Medical Services Branch, 10709 Jasper Ave., Edmonton, Alberta T5J 3N3, Canada, Oct. 1986. 6p. 12 ref.

CIS 87-612 Prens E.P., De Jong G., Van Joost T.
Sensitization to epichlorohydrin and epoxy system components
In an epoxy resin manufacturing plant, 26 of 228 (11.4%) workers had work-related eruptions; 19 were patch tested. The test series consisted of chemicals used in the manufacturing process, a standard battery and some other sensitisers. The prevalence of sensitisation to epichlorohydrin and/or epoxy resins in the whole group was 6.1%. A relatively high prevalence (3.5%) of epichlorohydrin sensitisation was found. 10 cases of sensitisation to liquid epoxy resin (MW about 385) were observed, in 7 cases combined with allergy to solid epoxy resin (MW 980). Sensitisation to Bisphenol A was not seen.
Contact Dermatitis, Aug. 1986, Vol.15, No.2, p.85-90. 15 ref.

CIS 87-86 Ethylene oxide
Chemical identity; potential exposure; exposure limits; properties; health effects; industrial hygiene practices and control; personal protective equipment; fire, explosions, dangerous combinations; storage, spillage, disposal; transportation.
Industrial Accident Prevention Association, 2 Bloor St. West, Toronto, Ontario M4W 3N8, Canada, Aug. 1986. 2p.

CIS 86-1066 Hogstedt C., Aringer L., Gustavsson A.
Epidemiologic support for ethylene oxide as a cancer-causing agent
The mortality and incidence of cancer in 3 groups of Swedish workers (733 in all) with occupational exposure to ethylene oxide (EO) was assessed, and compared with national average values in Sweden. Cases of leukaemia (8 observed; 0.83 expected) and stomach cancer (6 observed; 0.65 expected) were more common than expected among the exposed workers. These results provide evidence for an increased risk of malignancy in workers with extended and intermittent exposure to low concentrations of EO.
Journal of the American Medical Association, 28 Mar. 1986, Vol.255, No.12, p.1575-1578. 21 ref.

1985

CIS 89-82 Glycidyl phenyl ether
Fenyyliglysidyylieetteri [in Finnish]
Chemical safety information sheet. Exposure limit (15min): 60mg/m3. Is absorbed through skin. It irritates the skin and the eyes, it has a narcotic effect and paralyses the central nervous system. Long term exposure has a sensitising and mutagenic effect. Mandatory European labelling: XN, R20, R21, R101, S24, S25, S101.
Register of Safety Information of Chemical Products, National Board of Labour Protection, Box 536, 33101 Tampere, Finland, Mar. 1985. 2p. Original on microfiche.

CIS 88-1098 Butyl glycidyl ether
Butyyliglysidyylieetteri [in Finnish]
Chemical safety information sheet. Flammable liquid. Exposure limit (15min.) = 135mg/m3. Irritates the skin and the eyes. Has a narcotic effect. Causes paralysis of the CNS. Long term exposure has a mutagenic effect and sensitises the skin. Mandatory European labelling: F, XN, R10, R20, R101, S24, S25, S101.
Register of Safety Information of Chemical Products, National Board of Labour Protection, Box 536, 33101 Tampere, Finland, Mar. 1985. 2p. Original on microfiche.

CIS 88-1086 Allyl glycidyl ether
Allyyliglysidyylieetteri [in Finnish]
Chemical safety information sheet. Exposure limit (15min) = 22mg/m3. Is absorbed through the skin. The liquid irritates the skin and the eyes. The vapour irritates the eyes and the respiratory tract. Inhalation causes nausea and has a narcotic effect. Can cause inflammation of the vocal organs and pneumonia. Long term exposure has a sensitising and a mutagenic effect. Can cause hepatic and renal damage. Mandatory European labelling: F, XN, R20, R101, S24, S25, S101.
Register of Safety Information of Chemical Products, National Board of Labour Protection, Box 536, 33101 Tampere, Finland, Mar. 1985. 2p. Original on microfiche.

CIS 88-91 Diglycidyl ether
Chemical safety information sheet. Synonym: bis(2,3-epoxypropyl) ether. Exposure limits: OSHA PEL (1985) = 0.5ppm (ceiling concentration); ACGIH TLV (1983) = 0.5mg/m3; IDLH (NIOSH/OSHA, 1978) = 85ppm. Is absorbed through skin. Toxicity: can cause death or permanent injury via oral and inhalation routes during exposure encountered in normal work; skin damage and burns; irritation of eyes and respiratory tract.
In: EPA Chemical Profiles, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington D.C. 20460, USA, Dec. 1985. 3p.

CIS 87-1216 Diepoxybutane
Chemical safety information sheet. The substance is absorbed through the skin. Toxicity: severe skin, respiratory tract and eye irritant; delayed swelling of the eyelids. The dl, L(-) and meso forms have all been determined to be positive animal carcinogens.
In: EPA Chemical Profiles, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington D.C. 20460, USA, Dec. 1985. 3p.

CIS 87-37 Occupational exposure to ethylene oxide: Labeling requirements [USA]
Amendment to OSHA's final ethylene oxide standard (29 CFR 1910.1047) providing for exceptions to the labelling requirements.
Federal Register, USA, 11 Oct. 1985, Vol.50, No.198, p.41491-41494.

CIS 86-1913 Ethylene oxide
Contents of this data sheet: synonyms; properties; occupational exposure limits (8-h TWA recommended in the United Kingdom: 5ppm, 10-min short-term TWA: 15ppm); industrial uses; fire hazards and extinguishants to be used; hazardous reactions; acute and chronic health effects due to exposure; medical surveillance; handling and storage; safety precautions; leakage and spillage; first aid.
Safety Practitioner, Dec. 1985, Vol.3, No.12, p.12-13. 4 ref.

CIS 86-1646 Koga M., Hori H., Tanaka I., Akiyama T., Inoue N.
Quantitative analysis of urinary ethylene glycol in rats
Ethylene glycol in urine was separated by azeotropic distillation and esterified with n-butylboronic acid. The derivatised ethylene glycol was separated by gaz chromatography at 70° on a 2m by 3mm glass column of 2% OV-225 on 60-80 mesh Uniport HPS. A flame ionisation detector was used. Known amounts of z-methylcyclohexanone were included in the samples as internal standards. A linear calibration curve was obtained up to 500µg/mL of ethylene glycol. The detection limit was 10µg/mL and the relative standard deviation was 3.5% for 100µg/mL of ethylene glycol. This method was used to determine the urinary excretion of ethylene glycol in rats exposed to ethylene oxide at various concentrations (50-500ppm). The amounts of ethylene glycol excreted were sigmoidally dependent on the concentration of ethylene oxide to which the rats had been exposed.
Journal of UOEH, Mar. 1985, Vol.7, No.1, p.45-49. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 86-1582 Epichlorohydrin
Aspects covered in this data sheet: chemical identity; exposure limits; physicochemical properties; fire and explosion hazards; reactivity; health hazards; uses; handling of spills or releases.
In: EPA Chemical Profiles, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington D.C. 20460, USA, Dec. 1985. 4p.

CIS 86-1334 Propylene oxide
Aspects covered in this data sheet: chemical identity; exposure limits; physicochemical properties; fire and explosion hazards; reactivity; health hazards; uses; handling of spills or releases.
In: EPA Chemical Profiles, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington D.C. 20460, USA, Dec. 1985. 4p.

CIS 86-1324 Ethylene oxide
Aspects covered in this data sheet: chemical identity; exposure limits; physicochemical properties; fire and explosion hazards; reactivity; health hazards; uses; handling of spills or releases.
In: EPA Chemical Profiles, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington D.C. 20460, USA, Dec. 1985. 4p.

CIS 86-1048 Ethylene oxide
Taking into account available data concerning the alkylating nature of ethylene oxide, the reproducible positive carcinogenic findings in experimental animals, the overwhelmingly positive in vivo mutagenicity and genotoxicity tests, and the epidemiological findings suggesting an increase in the incidence of human cancer, ethylene oxide should be considered as probable human carcinogen, and its levels in the environment should be kept as low as feasible.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1985. 79p. Illus. Bibl. Price: SF.9.00.

CIS 86-1002 Propylene Oxide
Exposure of man to propylene oxide mainly occurs through inhalation at the workplace. Taking into account the body of available data - the alkylating nature of propylene oxide, the formation of DNA adducts, the positive response in in vitro mutagenesis assays, the carcinogenic effects in animals at the sites of entry into the body, and the absence of adequate data on cancer in human beings - propylene oxide should be regarded as if it presented a carcinogenic risk for man, and levels in the environment should be kept as low as feasible.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1985. 53p. 99 ref. Price: SF.8.00.

CIS 86-687 Evaluation of the carcinogenic risk of chemicals to humans. Allyl compounds, aldehydes, epoxides and peroxides
Conclusions of a meeting of experts (Lyon, France, June 1984). There is limited or inadequate evidence for the carcinogenicity of allyl chloride, allyl isothiocyanate, allyl isovalerate and eugenol in animals; in the absence of epidemiological data, no evaluation of human carcinogenicity could be made. There is sufficient evidence that acetaldehyde is an animal carcinogen, but inadequate evidence of its carcinogenicity in humans. Evidence of the carcinogenicity of acrolein and malonaldehyde in animals or humans is inadequate or absent. There is sufficient evidence for the carcinogenicity of diglycidyl resorcinol ether, ethylene oxide, propylene oxide and styrene oxide in animals, but only ethylene oxide can be identified as "probably carcinogenic" in humans. Evidence of the carcinogenicity of benzoyl, hydrogen and lauroyl peroxides is limited or inadequate for animals and inadequate or absent for humans.
International Agency for Research on Cancer, 150 cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 2, France, Feb. 1985. 369p. Illus. Bibl. Price: US$25.00; SF.70.00.

CIS 86-685 De Craecker W.
Ethylene oxide
Oxyde d'éthylène [in French]
Technical data sheet. Ethylene oxide is a highly flammable and explosive gas that has already caused major accidents. It is included in the EEC Seveso Directive, which became effective in Belgium on 1 Feb. 1985. Recent discoveries indicate that the substance is more toxic than previously thought, and that it has mutagenic and carcinogenic properties, leading occupational hygienists to recommend a lowering of the TLV from 10 to 1ppm. The introduction, in the near future, of a Belgian standard on the safe utilisation of ethylene oxide for sterilisation in medicine will contribute to its safe use.
Promosafe, May-June 1985, Vol.12, No.3, p.265-276. Illus. 34 ref.

CIS 86-398 Ehlert Knudsen L.
Nordic Expert Group for Documentation of Threshold Limit Values - 60. Propylene oxide
Nordiska expertgruppen för gränsvärdesdokumentation - 60. Propylenoxid [in Danish]
A critical survey and evaluation of the relevant literature as the basis for determination of an occupational exposure limit for propylene oxide. Propylene oxide is a highly reactive, electrophilic substance, which reacts with cellular macromolecules such as RNA, DNA and proteins, by alkylating nucleophilic centres. Propylene oxide is a mutagen. It induces local tumours when inhaled or administered by subcutaneous and intragastric routes and has an adverse effect on male and female reproduction in animals (mice and rats). In 1984, a working group in the IARC determined that there was sufficient evidence for the carcinogenicity of propylene oxide in experimental animals. Propylene oxide is an allergic sensitiser. It is recommended that the genotoxic and carcinogenic effects serve as the biological effects to be used as a basis for an evaluation in setting an occupational exposure limit for propylene oxide.
Arbetarskyddsstyrelsen, Publikationsservice, 171 84 Solna, Sweden, 1985. 43p. 89 ref.

CIS 86-177 Bergqvist-Karlsson A.
Contact allergy to glycidyl trimethyl ammonium chloride
Two chemists working in the pharmaceutical industry developed a papular itching dermatitis. Patch testing showed glycidyltrimethylammonium chloride to be the agent responsie. Avoidance of contact with the substance (in one case, by transfer to other work) prevented recurrence of the dermatitis. This is the first report of human sensitisation to glycidyltrimethylammonium chloride.
Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 1985, Vol.12, No.1, p.61-62. Illus. 2 ref.

CIS 86-106 Kring E.V., McGibney P.D., Thornley G.D.
Laboratory validation of five commecially available methods for sampling ethylene oxide in air
2 types of large charcoal tubes, 2 passive dosimeters (DuPont, Pro-Tek C-70 and 3M No.3550), and a Miran infrared Model 103 Analyser were tested simultaneously over 6 concentrations (0.25 to 10.7ppm) at 65% relative humidity. Only the DuPont ethylene oxide badge met the accuracy criteria in the OSHA ethylene oxide standard over the entire concentration range tested.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Oct. 1985, Vol.46, No.10, p.620-624. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 85-1380 Van Sittert N.J., De Jong G., Clare M.G., Davies R., Dean B.J., Wren L.J., Wright A.S.
Cytogenetic, immunological, and haematological effects in workers in an ethylene oxide manufacturing plant
Samples of blood were collected over a period of up to 14 years from 36 workers engaged in ethylene oxide (EO) manufacture and from 35 matched controls. There was a small positive correlation between length of employment in EO manufacturing and frequency of chromosome breaks and with the percentage of neutrophils in a differential white blood cell count. There was a small negative correlation between length of employment and the percentage of lymphocytes. None of these correlations had a significance for health. No correlations were found between EO exposure and the other biological parameters investigated.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Jan. 1985, Vol.42, No.1, p.19-26. 21 ref.

1984

CIS 87-1206 Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether
Bisfenoli-a-diglysidyylieetteri [in Finnish]
Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether is an irritating and sensitising liquid (LD50 = 11g/kg). Skin contact and inhalation should be avoided. Irritates the skin and the eyes. Can cause dermatitis. The substance has a radiomimetic effect: it causes paralysis of the bone marrow and is carcinogenic in animals. Mandatory European labelling: XI, R36, R38, R43, S28, S37, S39, S101.
Register of Safety Information of Chemical Products, National Board of Labour Protection, Box 536, 33101 Tampere, Finland, Dec. 1984. 2p. Original on microfiche.

CIS 86-1657 Hogstedt C., Aringer L., Gustavsson A.
Ethylene oxide and cancer - review of the literature and follow-up of two studies
Etylenoxid och cancer - litteraturöversikt och uppföljning av två epidemiologiska studier [in Swedish]
The rapidly growing literature on genotoxic effects in humans and animals of exposure to ethylene oxide is reviewed. Furthermore, two Swedish studies published in 1979 were followed up regarding mortality and cancer incidence. One more case of leukaemia was detected in a group of 203 exposed packers in addition to the two previously described cases of malignancies from the haematopoietic system and a non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Among 89 ethylene oxide operators with mixed exposure, another case of leukaemia was found in addition to two previously described cases. Furthermore, the risk of stomach cancer was greatly increased in the production group. Epidemiological, cytogenetic and animal studies support the view that ethylene oxide in low concentrations increases the risk of cancer after continuous exposure and possibly also after intermittent exposure.
Arbetarskyddsstyrelsen, Publikationsservice, 171 84 Solna, Sweden, 1984. 32p. 34 ref.

CIS 86-1275 Herzog V., Horn H., Machwerth R., Schnellhardt E., Lindig K.
Ethylene oxide contamiation of sterilizing staff
Zur Belastung des Bedienungspersonals bei der Ethylenoxidsterilisation [in German]
In a separate room 2 ethylene oxide sterilisers were operated, and the concentration of the gas in the indoor air as well as in the surrounding open air was determined by gas chromatography. The highest concentrations were found when the sterile goods were unloaded, and during their storage for desorption of the gas. Directions are given for further proper and safe use of the sterilising method, based on experiments, experience and the study of new literature about the intoxication risk of sterilising staff.
Zeitschrift für die gesamte Hygiene und ihre Grenzgebiete, 1984, Vol.30, No.9, p.510-513. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 86-473 Hegyi E., Jakubík A.
Skin damage from work with phenyl glycidyl ether
Kožné poškodenia pri práci s fenylglycidyléterom [in Slovak]
A small epidemic of skin damage occurred after the introduction of lubricating oils with the stabiliser phenyl glycidyl ether. Of 74 exposed workers, 16 developed contact sensitisation to phenyl glycidyl ether. After replacement of this oil with another one free of the implicated substance, no further cases of skin damage were reported.
Pracovní lékařství, 1984, Vol.36, No.4, p.121-122. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 86-120 Epichlorohydrin
Epichlorohydrin is absorbed rapidly via the skin, gastrointestinal tract and, in vapour form, via the lungs. It is strongly irritating to the eyes and lung and will sensitise the skin. The compound is mutagenic in most short term assays and has shown carcinogenic, embryotoxic and teratogenic effects in animals. None of these effects have been, as yet, observed in humans. Other aspects covered: properties and analytical methods; uses and distribution in the environment; toxicology and levels of exposure; current regulations, guidelines and standards. French translation available from World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1984. 51p. Illus. Bibl. Price: SF.8.00.

CIS 86-139 Laurent C., Frederic J., Léonard A.Y.
Sister chromatid exchange frequency in workers exposed to high levels of ethylene oxide in a hospital sterilization service
Blood samples were taken from a group of 25 subjects exposed to high levels of ethylene oxide (EO); the quantity of EO inhaled during the past 2 years was evaluated to fall between 500 and 5800mg. Compared to a control group, the exposed group demonstrated a significant increase in the sister chromatid exchange (SCE); the rise was 100% in certain individuals. Senior workers had the highest SCE mean levels. This observation shows that the effect of exposure to EO was sufficient to produce a genetic reaction, was cumulative and in some cases persistent.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, 1984, Vol.54, No.1, p.33-43. 40 ref.

CIS 85-1052 Sarto F.
Toxicity of ethylene oxide and its relevance for man
Tossicità dell'ossido di etilene e sua rilevanza per l'uomo [in Italian]
A literature review of the toxicity of ethylene oxide (acute and chronic poisoning, local irritation, mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, teratogenic effects and effects on the reproductive function) and of its environmental and biological monitoring. The Italian exposure limit of 3ppm is judged to be still too high.
Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1984, Vol.75, No.4, p.254-263. 57 ref.

CIS 85-758 Currier M.F., Carlo G.L., Poston P.L., Ledford W.E.
A cross sectional study of employees with potential occupational exposure to ethylene oxide
This study was conducted on 84 workers potentially exposed to ethylene oxide (EO) in the chemical manufacturing industry and on individually matched controls. The exposure level was estimated to be below the TLV of 10ppm, and mostly below 1ppm. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in the results of haematological and biochemical tests. There was a significant (p=0.035) increase in the prevalence of proteinuria among workers exposed to EO.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Nov. 1984, Vol.41, No.4, p.492-498. 17 ref.

CIS 85-408 Kring E.V., Damrell D.J., Basilio A.N., McGibney P.D., Douglas J.J., Henry T.J., Ansul G.R.
Laboratory validation and field verification of a new passive air monitoring badge for sampling ethylene oxide in air
The DuPont Pro-Tek C-70 colorimetric dosimeter has been laboratory validated over the range of 4-375ppm-h (0.5-47ppm on an 8h TWA) using standard spectrophotometer readout in 1cm cells. Overall sampling and analytical method accuracy is ±13.5%. Temperature, pressure, relative humidity or face velocity have no effect on sampling over practical ranges. Badges were more precise than the charcoal tube/pump method in all field tests conducted. The badge may be used to determine ambient formaldehyde levels if suspected to be present along with ethylene oxide. Glycols and formaldehyde will give a positive interference.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Oct. 1984, Vol.45, No.10, p.697-707. Illus. 36 ref.

CIS 85-449 Osterman-Golkar S., Bailey E., Farmer P.B., Gorf S.M., Lamb J.H.
Monitoring exposure to propylene oxide through the determination of hemoglobin alkylation
The levels of Nτ-(2-hydroxypropyl)histidine in haemoglobin (Hb) were determined for 8 employees in a plant where propylene oxide (PO) was used for the production of hydroxypropylated starch, and for 13 referents. Good agreement was obtained between the estimated exposure and the degree of alkylation of Hb. Values of 0.1-0.38nmol/g Hb were found for referents compared with 0.85-1.2 for employees with low to intermediate exposure and 4.5-13 for employees with exposure at 10ppm PO for 25-75% of work time. The method gives a measure of the in vivo dose obtained during a period of 4 months and is superior to point measurement of concentrations for the surveillance of exposure conditions in work environments.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1984, Vol.10, No.2, p.99-102. Illus. 24 ref.

CIS 85-131 Hansen J.P., Allen J., Brock K., Falconer J., Helms M.J., Shaver G.C., Strohm B.
Normal sister chromatid exchange levels in hospital sterilization employees exposed to ethylene oxide
Sister chromatid exchange (SCE) frequencies were determined for 9 female and 5 male hospital workers exposed to ethylene oxide (EO) in sterilising areas and were compared with those of 14 controls matched for sex, race and age. Time-weighted average (TWA) and peak ambient levels of EO were measured in the sterilising areas. All workers were exposed to <5ppm TWA of EO, and there were no statistically significant differences in SCE levels between workers and controls. Smoking was associated with increased SCE levels. In this particular hospital setting no evidence of genetic effects stemming from exposure to low levels of EO was found.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Jan. 1984, Vol.26, No.1, p.29-32. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 84-1921 Lahaye D., van Assche F., Theunissen A.
Ethylene oxide concentration in hospital sterilisation units
Ethyleenoxideconcentratie in de sterilisatieafdelingen van ziekenhuizen [in Dutch]
Ethylene oxide exposure of sterilisation unit personnel in 19 Belgian hospitals was measured. The concentration of ethylene oxide was also measured in air samples taken in premises adjacent to the units, and in packages containing sterilised instruments. The highest concentrations were measured during the opening of sterilising equipment (up to 265ppm). Lower concentrations were found during the use of the new "high-pressure" equipment. The lowest values (1.8ppm averaged over 2h near the steriliser) were found during the use of "low-pressure" equipment. Recommendations: installation of equipment in ventilated rooms; use of low-pressure equipment; regular checking and maintenance of equipment; airing of equipment after unpacking; inadvisability of vacuum-packing.
Tijdschrift voor sociale gezondheidszorg, 12 Sep. 1984, Vol.62, No.18, p.707-713. 19 ref.

CIS 84-1612 Bouisson F.
The use of ethylene oxide in sterilisation and disinfection
L'oxyde d'éthylène, emploi en stérilisation et désinfection [in French]
Proper use of ethylene oxide during sterilisation and disinfection operations in hospitals and industry. Physical and chemical properties (toxicity, flammability, tendency to polymerise, TLV in air). Conditions of use in explosive and non-explosive atmospheres. Recommended air monitoring measures (sampling), appropriate ventilation of work premises.
Face au risque, Feb. 1984, No.200, p.25-31. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 84-1379 Ethylene oxide toxicology and its relevance to man: an up-dating of ECETOC Technical Report No.5
For ECETOC Technical Report No.5, see CIS 84-784. Since the publication of Report No.5, OSHA (1983) has proposed to lower the permitted exposure level of ethylene oxide (EO) to an 8h-TWA of 1ppm. The Environmental Protection Agency (USA) believes that this 1ppm TWA level will reduce not only the cancer risk from workers' exposure to EO, but also other health hazards, including neurotoxic and adverse reproductive effects. The permitted exposure level in Italy was reduced from 50 to 3ppm in 1983.
European Chemical Industry, Ecology and Toxicology Centre, Avenue Louise 250, Boîte 63, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, 26 Mar. 1984. 47p. 101 ref.

CIS 84-920 Periodic checks of sterilising facilities - Ethylene oxide and sterilisers
Vérification périodique des installations de stérilisation - L'oxyde d'éthylène et les stérilisateurs [in French]
Practical rules to follow during the use of ethylene oxide; methodology of periodic checks (safety equipment, leak detectors, earthing, ethylene oxide distribution, exhaust ventilation); maintenance of positive pressure and negative pressure sterilisers.
APAVE, Jan.-Mar. 1984, Vol.65, No.225, p.65-68.

1983

CIS 84-1634
Health and Safety Executive
Ethylene oxide in air - Laboratory method using charcoal adsorbent tubes, solvent desorption and gas chromatography
Contents of this guidance note: Properties, uses, toxicity and first aid in case of massive exposure to ethylene oxide; determination method (sampling through a glass or metal tube packed with activated charcoal; desorption of the absorbed ethylene oxide by carbon disulfide; analysis of the solution with a gas chromatograph equipped with a flame ionisation detector). Scope: suitable for measurement over periods of 10min-8h, both for personal and area sampling. Analytical range: 1-200mg/m3 for 5l air samples. Precision: <10%. Samples stored for more than 4 days without refrigeration will suffer substantial sample loss due to migration from the front to the back section of the charcoal. Interference is provided by high humidity and compounds coeluting with ethylene oxide.
Health and Safety Executive Sale Point, St. Hugh's House, Stanley Precinct, Bootle, Merseyside L20 3QY, United Kingdom, July 1983. 4p. 12 ref. Price: £0.50.

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