Mercury and compounds - 299 entries found

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1994

CIS 98-1389 Toxicological profile for mercury: Update
Topics: antifertility effects; cardiovascular disorders; mercury chloride; chloromethylmercury; mercury sulfide; mercuric acetate; phenylmercury acetate; mercuric chloride; colic; criteria document; determination in biological matter; diarrhoea; exposure evaluation; gastric disorders; glossary; haematological effects; health hazards; hepatic disorders; immunotoxic effects; legislation; limitation of exposure; literature survey; menstrual disorders; mercury and compounds; musculoskeletal diseases; mutagenic effects; neurotoxic effects; renal damage; respiratory diseases; respiratory impairment; skin eruption; teratogenic effects; toxic effects; toxicity evaluation; toxicology; USA.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, Toxicology Information Branch, 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, May 1994. xvii, 357p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 96-799 Ishihara N., Urushiyama K.
Longitudinal study of workers exposed to mercury vapour at low concentrations - Time course of inorganic and organic mercury concentrations in urine, blood, and hair
Seven Japanese female workers exposed to mercury vapour at a concentration of <0.02mg Hg/m³ (8h/day, 44h/week) were examined for inorganic (I-Hg) and organic (O-Hg) mercury concentrations in urine, blood, and hair after 0, 4, 8, 17, and 23 months of exposure. Neither I-Hg nor O-Hg concentrations in urine and hair increased significantly, even after 23 months of exposure. However, the concentration of I-Hg and O-Hg in plasma and O-Hg in erythrocytes increased significantly after four months of exposure, and the high concentrations were maintained until the end of the study. Absence of a significant increase in the concentration of O-Hg in hair indicates that changes in concentrations of I-Hg and O-Hg in blood could be caused by the occupational exposure to mercury vapour. These results show clearly that mercury concentration in blood indicates the uptake of mercury compared with data from before employment with mercury contrary to urinary mercury concentration which remained unaffected, even after a 23-month exposure.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 1994, Vol.51, No.10, p.660-662. 19 ref.

CIS 96-842 Holland R.I., Ellingsen D.G., Olstad M.L., Kjuus H.
Dental health in workers previously exposed to mercury vapour at a chloralkali plant
The dental health of 73 workers previously exposed to mercury vapour at a chloralkali plant was studied and compared with that of 51 non-exposed referents. A record of oral, periodontal, gingival and mucosal conditions, including teeth, restorations, prostheses and oral hygiene, was established during a 30min examination. There was no significant difference between the exposed workers and the referents with respect to the number of remaining teeth, amount of amalgam restorations, crowns, bridges, or endodontically treated teeth. The oral hygiene among the exposed workers was significantly better than among the referents, but the periodontal health conditions did not significantly differ between the two groups, nor from those of another Norwegian population. The present results seem to contradict previous reports claiming tooth loss as a possible result of exposure to mercury vapour.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 1994, Vol.51, No.10, p.656-659. 12 ref.

CIS 96-798 Wennberg A.
Neurotoxic effects of selected metals
A substance is considered to be neurotoxic if it is capable of inducing a consistent pattern of neural dysfunction or lesion in the nervous system. Several metals are known as neurotoxic. Among them, four were selected as being especially important from the occupational point of view: lead, manganese, aluminium and mercury. All four have proved to be neurotoxic even though the toxic mechanisms may be unclear or unknown. This paper reviews the recently published documentation on the neurotoxic properties of these metals, from the general as well as the occupational point of view.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, 1994, Vol.20, Special issue, p.65-71. Illus. 70 ref.

CIS 95-2171 Nordhagen H.P., Ellingsen D.G., Kjuus H.
Production and surveillance of mercury exposure over 40 years at a chloralkali plant
Mercury vapour exposure was studied for 40 years in 419 chloralkali workers. The concentration of mercury was measured in the workroom from 1953 and in urine from 1948. During the study period, the mean urinary mercury concentration, uncorrected for urinary dilution, for all subjects varied between 30 and 250µg/L. For workers in the cell-room the correlation (r) between urinary mercury and mercury in the workroom was r=0.74 (p<0.001), and for repair men/mechanics it was r=0.70 (p<0.001). The introduction of new cells and stabilizing the volume of production may have been important for the reduction of air-Hg and U-Hg, whereas other changes in the production process, or actions to reduce the release of mercury to the work environment, had no detectable effect. The urinary mercury concentration among all workers was related to the relative energy consumption (r=0.l83, p<0.001).
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 1994, Vol.38, No.5, p.777-788. Illus. 24 ref.

CIS 95-2179 Barregård L., Lindstedt G., Schütz A., Sällsten G.
Endocrine function in mercury exposed chloralkali workers
The aim of this study was to establish whether functional impairment of the pituitary, thyroid, testicular and adrenal glands of humans occupationally exposed to mercury (Hg) vapour can be shown as a result of accumulation of Hg in these glands. Basal concentrations of thyrotrophin (TSH), prolactin, free thyroxine (free T4), free 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (free T3), antibodies against thyroperoxidase, and testosterone in serum, as well as cortisol in morning urine were measured in 41 chloralkali workers exposed to Hg vapour, and in 41 age-matched, occupationally unexposed referents. The serum free T4 concentration and the ratio free T4/free T3 were slightly, but significantly, higher in the subgroups with the highest exposure, and the serum free T3 was inversely associated with cumulative Hg exposure. This indicates a possible inhibitory effect of mercury on 5'-deiodinases. Serum total testosterone, but not free testosterone, was positively correlated with cumulative Hg exposure. Prolactin, TSH and urinary cortisol concentrations were not significantly associated to exposure. Apart from inhibition of the deiodination of T4 to T3, the endocrine functions studied seem not to be affected by exposure to Hg vapour at the exposure levels of the present study.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1994, Vol.51, No.8, p.536-540. Illus. 27 ref.

CIS 95-1624 Organic mercury (alkyl)
Mercurio orgánico (alquilo) [in Spanish]
Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: skin absorption; delayed effects; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; dermatitis; skin eruption; chemical burns; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system); disturbances of coordination; visual function disorders; may affect the liver and kidneys; may cause chromosome alterations.
Noticias de seguridad, Dec. 1994, Vol.56, No.12. 5p. Insert.

CIS 95-1435 Yang Y.J., Huang C.C., Shih T.S., Yang S.S.
Chronic elemental mercury intoxication - Clinical and field studies in lampsocket manufacturers
Four workers chronically exposed to elemental mercury in a lampsocket manufacturing factory were studied. The clinical manifestations were severe in one, mild in another, and suspicious in the remaining two. Correlation between severity of clinical features and increased urinary mercury concentrations was found. The time-weighted average mercury concentrations were 0.945mg/m³ and 0.709mg/m³ for two workers in one room and 0.225mg/m³ in the other. After stopping exposure, the workers recovered spontaneously or with D-penicillamine treatment within six months. Results show that recovery from chronic elemental mercury intoxication may be complete when patients are removed early from the exposure environment. The hazard of mercury intoxication in the recycling of waste substances is emphasized.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 1994, Vol.51, No.4, p.267-270. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 95-1053 Risk reduction monograph No.4: Mercury - Background and national experience with reducing risk
World production of mercury has been falling for 20 years, falling below 4000 tonnes in 1991. It is used in the electrolysis of salt to chlorine and sodium hydroxide, in batteries and other electrical equipment, in paints, in tooth fillings and in thermometers and other laboratory equipment. It may be released in industrial activities and in waste disposal, as well as in natural processes. Mercury and many of its compounds attack the central nervous system and the kidney. All OECD member countries regulate it, and some have banned most uses. Summary in French.
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, Environment Directorate, Environmental Health and Safety Division, 2 rue André-Pascal, 75775 Paris Cedex 16, France, 1994. 159p. Illus. 138 ref. Gratis.

CIS 95-659 Delépine A.
Mercury exposure risk in the manufacturing of neon signs
Evaluation du risque hydrargyrique dans la fabrication des enseignes lumineuses [in French]
A survey has been made in neon sign manufacturing plants in France to assess mercury exposure and uptake among glass blowers. In this process, mercury is used in small quantities (about two kilos per year, per plant). Besides mercury, these workers are exposed to the risk of burns caused by blowpipes and to electrical accidents due to the use of power reaching up to 20,000 volts.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 3rd Quarter 1994, No.59, p.275-279. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 95-140 Moszczyński P., Slowiński S.
The behaviour of T-cell subpopulations in the blood of workers exposed to mercury
In 55 men with a history of exposure to mercury vapours, and in 36 controls, T-cell, helper T-cell, suppressor T-cell and NK-cell counts in peripheral blood were determined using monoclonal antibodies. The mean concentration of mercury in the urine of the exposed individuals was 54µg/L (S.D.=45), and in blood 4.7µg/L (S.D.=7.2). Occupational exposure to mercury induced changes in T-cell subpopulations in the peripheral blood, but was without effect on the number of NK cells.
Medicina del lavoro, May-June 1994, Vol.85, No.3, p.239-241. 8 ref.

CIS 95-227 Kishi R., Doi R., Fukuchi Y., Satoh H., Satoh T., Ono A., Moriwaka F., Tashiro K., Takahata N., Sasatani H., Shirakashi H., Kamada T., Nakagawa K.
Residual neurobehavioural effects associated with chronic exposure to mercury vapour
To find the residual effects of long-term exposure to mercury vapour, neurobehavioural tests were given to ex-mercury miners about 18 years after the end of mercury exposure. Seventy-six male ex-mercury miners who had been exposed to high concentrations of mercury vapour (>1.0mg/m³) and with a history of mercury intoxication were compared with controls matched for age (within three years), sex, and education. Although the extent of the workers' symptoms caused by mercury poisoning, termed erethismus mercurialis, decreased considerably after the end of exposure, matched paired comparison showed that performances of motor coordination, simple reaction time, and short-term memory had deteriorated significantly in the exposed group. These results suggest that there are slight but persistent effects on neurobehavioural function, especially on motor coordination, among mercury miners even more than 10 years after the end of exposure.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 1994, Vol.51, No.1, p.35-41. Illus. 40 ref.

CIS 95-226 Rowland A.S., Baird D.D., Weinberg C.R., Shore D.L., Shy C.M., Wilcox A.J.
The effect of occupational exposure to mercury vapour on the fertility of female dental assistants
To study the effects of mercury vapour on fertility in women, eligibility questionnaires were sent to 7,000 registered dental assistants in California, USA. The final eligible sample of 418 women, who had become pregnant during the previous four years, were interviewed by telephone. Detailed information was collected on mercury handling practices and the number of menstrual cycles without contraception it had taken them to become pregnant. Dental assistants not working with amalgam served as unexposed controls. Women with high occupational exposure to mercury were less fertile than unexposed controls. The fecundability (probability of conception each menstrual cycle) of women who prepared 30 or more amalgams per week and who had five or more poor mercury hygiene factors was only 63% of that for unexposed women (95% CI 42%-96%) after controlling for covariates. Women with low exposure were more fertile, however, than unexposed controls. Possible explanations for the U-shaped dose response and limitations of the exposure measure are discussed. Further investigation that uses biological measures of mercury exposed is needed.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 1994, Vol.51, No.1, p.28-34. 66 ref.

CIS 94-1990 Koizumi A., Aoki T., Tsukada M., Naruse M., Saitoh N.
Mercury, not sulphur dioxide, poisoning as cause of smelter disease in industrial plants producing sulphuric acid
Several episodes of "smelter disease" previously assumed to be caused by sulfur dioxide (SO₂) poisoning have been reported in workers replacing pipes in sulfuric acid manufacturing plants. At a plant in Akita, Japan 20 such workers were affected despite wearing either respirators with SO₂ cartridges or face masks with supplied air. Blood and urine measurements confirmed heavy mercury exposure. It was concluded that the illness was caused by inhalation of mercury fumes generated from mercuric sulfate in the piping sludge and by dermal exposure to the sludge. The wearing of encapsulated suits with a supplied-air system is recommended.
Lancet, 4 June 1994, Vol.343, No.8910, p.1411-1412. 4 ref.

1993

CIS 02-1127 Alessio L., Crippa M., Lucchini R., Roi R., Sabbioni E.
CEC criteria document for occupational exposure limit values - Inorganic mercury
In the event of acute exposure to mercury, the main target organ is the respiratory system and the effect is chemical pneumonitis. In the event of prolonged exposure, the critical organ is the central nervous system. The most important symptoms are tremors, erethism, stomatitis and gingivitis. For low exposures, a syndrome called micromercurialism has been described, characterized by anorexia, loss of weight, mild tremors, insomnia and shyness. The current threshold limit value of 50µg/m³ of mercury vapour adopted in most countries appears adequate, but further studies are recommended with respect to embryotoxic effects.
European Chemicals Bureau, Joint Research Centre, 21020 Ispra, Italy, 1993. 81p. Illus. 176 ref.

CIS 95-1761 Hefflin B.J., Etzel R.A., Agocs M.M., Stratton J.W., Ikawa G.K., Barsan M.E., Schutte G.R., Paschal D.C., Kozman A.R.
Mercury exposure from exterior latex paint
An investigation was conducted to determine the extent of mercury exposure from the outdoor application of exterior latex paints. Air and urinary mercury concentrations of 13 professional male painters were compared with those of 29 men having non-painter occupations. The median concentration of mercury for the four paint samples obtained was 570mg/L. The median air mercury concentration was higher for painters than for nonpainters. The median urinary mercury concentration was nearly twice as high for painters as for nonpainters. Among painters, urinary mercury concentrations increased with the percentage of time spent applying exterior paint. These data suggest increased mercury exposure among professional painters who use mercury-containing exterior paint outdoors.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Oct. 1993, Vol.8, No.10, p.866-870. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 95-1417 Ellingsen D.G., Mørland T., Andersen A., Kjuus H.
Relation between exposure related indices and neurological and neurophysiological effects in workers previously exposed to mercury vapour
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 1993, Vol.50, No.8, p.736-744. Illus. 26 réf. ###

CIS 95-236 Boffetta A., Merler E., Vainio H.
Carcinogenicity of mercury and mercury compounds
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 1993, Vol.19, No.1, p.1-7. 66 ref. ###

CIS 94-1304 Pan T.C., Huang C.W.
Measurement of arsenic and mercury concentrations by hydride and cold vapor atomic absorption spectrophotometry
Workplace activities in a motorcycle part manufacturing plant were observed. The processes involved were bending and pressing of metal sheets, electric welding, electroplating, machining, and motorcycle muffler assembly. Arsenic and mercury concentrations in urine specimens of student controls and workers were determined. Both methods were sufficiently precise and accurate. Total arsenic levels in the exposed workers were significantly higher than those in non-exposed controls; there is a risk of arsenic poisoning to the workers engaged in motorcycle muffler assembly. The total mercury levels in the exposed workers were no different than in the controls.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1993, Vol.54, No.8, p.454-457. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 94-1331
International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
IARC monographs on the evaluation of carcinogenic risks to humans - Beryllium, cadmium, mercury and exposures in the glass manufacturing industry
This monograph represents the views and expert opinions of an IARC Working Group which met in Lyon, France, 9-16 February 1993. IARC final classifications: beryllium and beryllium compounds and cadmium and cadmium compounds are carcinogenic to humans (Group 1); methylmercury compounds are possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B); metallic mercury and inorganic mercury compounds are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3). In the glass manufacturing industry, the manufacture of art glass, glass containers and pressed ware entails exposures that are probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A) while occupational exposures in flat-glass and special glass manufacture are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3).
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1993. 444p. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: CHF 75.00.

CIS 93-2009
Japan Industrial Hygiene Association
Criteria for tentative safe exposure levels on the 1993 exposure limit list [Japan]
Kyoyō nōdo zanteichi (1993) no teian riyū [in Japanese]
Review of relevant primary literature on isoprothiolane, chlorobenzene, mercury and its compounds (except alkyl mercury compounds), 1,1-dichloroethane, methylene(bis)-o-chloroaniline, N,N-dimethylaniline, methylene diisocyanate, silane, trinitrotoluene and monochloroethane. Exposure limits established in other countries are discussed.
Japanese Journal of Industrial Health - Sangyō-Igaku, July 1993, Vol.35, No.4, p.346-367. 176 ref.

CIS 93-898 Chia S.E., Phoon W.H., Lee H.S., Tan K.T., Jeyaratnam J.
Exposure to neurotoxic metals among workers in Singapore: An overview
The extent of occupational exposure to inorganic lead, manganese, arsenic and inorganic mercury in Singapore was determined from the results of Statutory Medical Examinations and environmental monitoring carried out by the Department of Industrial Health in 1989. There were 786 workers exposed to lead. Of these, 7.8% had blood levels greater than 40µg/dL. There were 67 workers exposed to mercury, 11.9% of whom had urinary mercury levels greater than 50µg/L. There were 101 and 144 workers exposed to arsenic and manganese respectively. None of the biological samples exceeded the health-based limits. A review of local studies showed that some of the exposed workers had neurophysiological and neurobehavioural changes.
Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1993, Vol.43, No.1, p.18-22. 23 ref.

CIS 93-619 Câmara V.M.
World Health Organization (OMS)
Mercury in areas of gold mining settlement
Mercúrio em áreas de garimpos de ouro [in Portuguese]
Contents of this study of the mercury (Hg) contamination problem in gold mining areas of Brazil: epidemiologic monitoring of gold mining areas; work processes involved in gold mining and related health hazards (particularly due to exposure to Hg); Hg in the environment and its hazards for man (Hg in the air, in the soil and in water); information on gold miners relevant to the development of epidemiologic monitoring (distribution of the mining population, migratory movements, original occupation, educational level, work organisation, use of pollution control equipment); effects of Hg on man and diagnostic methods (symptoms of acute and chronic Hg poisoning, diagnosis, treatment, medical questionnaire given to miners exposed to Hg); methods for collecting blood, urine and hair samples for purposes of measuring Hg levels in the body; environmental monitoring for Hg (in fish, soil, sediments, water); basics of atmospheric monitoring of Hg; laboratory measurements; control of Hg contamination in gold mining areas; development of programmes for the health training of workers; the health dimension in environmental impact studies.
Centro Panamericano de Ecologia Humana e Saúde (ECO), Apartado Postal 37-473, 06696 México D.F., Mexico, 1993. xix, 164p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 93-583 Kanerva L., Komulainen M., Estlander T., Jolanki R.
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from mercury
Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from metallic mercury is rare. The authors present the only two patients with relevant occupational mercury allergy detected at their clinic since 1974. The first patient was a dental nurse who became sensitised to metallic mercury from amalgam when handling uncured amalgam without protective gloves. The second patient had previously been sensitised to mercury from topical medicaments and developed work-related dermatitis when a mercury thermometer was broken at her place of work. Both patients had a positive patch test reaction to metallic mercury.
Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 1993, Vol.28, No.1, p.26-28. 26 ref.

1992

CIS 95-2153 Barregård L., Sällsten G., Schütz A., Attewell R., Skerfving S., Järvholm B.
Kinetics of mercury in blood and urine after brief occupational exposure
Archives of Environmental Health, May-June 1992, Vol.47, No.3, p.176-184. Illus. 29 ref. ###

CIS 94-292 Sällsten G., Barregård L., Langworth S., Vesterberg O.
Exposure to mercury in industry and dentistry - A field comparison between diffusive and active samplers
A field comparison between active and diffusive Hydrar samplers for measurements of mercury in air was performed in a chemical plant, a thermometer factory, and six dental surgeries. In all three environments, the diffusive samplers showed considerably lower values than the active samplers. In the range 1-123µg/m³ of mercury in air, the passive samplers showed 64% (95% confidence interval 60-68) of the results of the active samplers. Mercury levels in air were low in dentistry (median 2.8µg/m³) and moderate in the thermometer factory (median 38µg/m³). The exposure for maintenance workers in the chemical plant was higher, median 56µg/m³ during normal maintenance and 97µg/m³ during a shutdown. As expected, stationary samplings in industry showed lower concentrations than personal samplings. In dentistry surgeries, however, there was a relatively good agreement between the results from the personal Hydrar tubes and the stationary ones placed behind the patient.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, July 1992, Vol.7, No.7, p.434-440. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 94-95 Mercury
Mercure [in French]
International chemical safety card. Danger symbol: toxic. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; skin absorption; irritation of skin; pulmonary oedema; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). Long-term exposure effects: may have effects on the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and kidneys; may cause birth defects, specifically brain damage. EC identification number and labelling codes: 080-001-00-0; T; R23-33; S7-44. United Nations number and hazard class: UN 2809 (8; 123; III).
Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg; International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1992. 2p. Illus.

1991

CIS 06-510 Interministerial order concerning schedules of occupational diseases [Senegal]
Arrêté interministériel portant tableaux des maladies professionnelles [Sénégal] [in French]
This Order lists occupational diseases caused by lead and mercury and their compounds, by tetrachloroethane and by benzene and its toxic homologues. Principal occupations suspected of causing these diseases are listed along with the time limit for their notification.
Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training and Ministry Public Health and Social Services, Senegal, 1991. 69p.
http://www.bossons-fute.com/Documents/MalProfSenegal2006.pdf [in French]

CIS 96-84 Hofer L., Meier J.R.
Occupational hazards due to mercury and its compounds
Gesundheitliche Gefährdung am Arbeitsplatz durch Quecksilber [in German]
Risques professionnels dus au mercure et à ses composés [in French]
Practical guide to the hazards of occupational exposure to mercury (Hg) and its compounds, as well as to their prevention. Contents: general chemical and physical properties of Hg and its compounds; techniques, products and occupations involving potential exposure to Hg; absorption, distribution in the body, metabolism and elimination of Hg and its compounds; pathologies due to exposure to Hg and its compounds (general aspects of occupational diseases caused by Hg; chronic and acute effects of Hg poisoning by inhalation; poisoning by inorganic Hg salts, by mercury oxide and by organic Hg compounds; treatment of Hg poisoning); prevention of occupational diseases due to Hg; exposure limits; skin reactions and allergies induced by Hg; investigations when Hg poisoning is suspected; protection of the environment against Hg pollution.
Schweizerische Unfallversicherungsanstalt, Abteilung Arbeitsmedizin, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, 1991. 31p. 26 ref.

CIS 94-873 Akesson I., Schutz A., Attewell R., Skerfving S., Glantz P.O.
Status of mercury and selenium in dental personnel: Impact of amalgam work and own fillings
Urinary mercury (U-Hg) and plasma mercury (P-Hg) levels were higher in 244 dental personnel than in 81 matched referents (U-Hg: 1.8 and 1.1µmol/mol creatinine, respectively; p<0.001; P-Hg: 6.7 and 6.2nmol/L, respectively; p=0.03). The amalgam in the mouth influenced mercury levels in whole blood (B-Hg), plasma, and urine. The association was nonlinear: the more amalgam, the larger the relative increase in mercury levels. The number of amalgam surfaces accounted for more of the variance in blood and urinary mercury levels than did the number of fillings (e.g., U-Hg: 44% and 36%, respectively). The estimated increases in mercury level with rising amalgam load were 3.0%, 2.0%, and 0.8% per filled surface for U-Hg, P-Hg, and B-Hg, respectively (p<0.0001 in all cases). The impact of occupational exposure on U-Hg in the dental personnel corresponded to approximately 19 amalgam surfaces. Ceramo metallic restorations were associated with higher (31%) U-Hg.
Archives of Environmental Health, Mar.-Apr. 1991, Vol.46, No.2, p.102-109. Illus. 36 ref.

CIS 91-1611 Fagá I., Trivelato G.C.
Measurement of the capture efficiency of exhaust hoods in gold-purchasing operations by determination of mercury in air
Avaliação da eficácia de capelas para casas compradoras de ouro, por determinação de mercúrio no ar [in Portuguese]
Description of a method for the evaluation of the capture efficiency of exhaust hoods in gold-purchasing operations, where large amounts of mercury are released into the atmosphere.
Revista brasileira de saúde ocupacional, Jan.-Mar. 1991, Vol.19, No.72, p.12-16. 14 ref.

CIS 91-1271
International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS)
Inorganic mercury
Acute inhalation exposure to mercury vapour may be followed by chest pains, dyspnoea, coughing, haemoptysis, and sometimes interstitial pneumonitis leading to death. The ingestion of mercury compounds, in particular mercuric chloride, has caused ulcerative gastroenteritis and acute tubular necrosis. The central nervous system is the critical organ for mercury vapour exposure. Subacute exposure has given rise to psychotic reactions characterised by delirium, hallucinations, and suicidal tendency and occupational exposure has resulted in erethism. The kidney is the critical organ following the ingestion of inorganic divalent mercury salts and occupational exposure to metallic mercury is associated with the development of proteinuria. Both metallic mercury vapour and mercury compounds have given rise to contact dermatitis. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 168p. Illus. 418 ref. Price: CHF 20.00 (CHF 14.00 in developing countries).

1990

CIS 94-805 Mercury
Quecksilber [in German]
Chemical safety information sheet. Risk phrases and preventive measures (European Union); fire and explosion hazards; fire fighting; storage; first aid and medical supervision; waste disposal and elimination of spills; labelling; occupational exposure limits (MAK): 0.05mg/m³ (1989).
Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt, Abteilung für Unfallverhütung und Berufskrankheitenbekämpfung, Adalbert-Stifter-Strasse 65, 1200 Wien, Austria, 1990. 3p.

CIS 92-223 Assennato G., Porro A., Longo G., Longo F., Ambrosi L.
Effects of low mercury concentrations on the nervous system among workers employed in the manufacture of fluorescent tubes
Valutazione degli effetti sul sistema nervoso dell'esposizione a basse concentrazioni di mercurio in addetti alla fabbricazione di lampade fluorescenti [in Italian]
In order to evaluate the effects of low inorganic mercury concentrations on workers employed in the manufacture of fluorescent tubes, a stratified sample of workers was selected at random and assigned to 3 groups according to the level of exposure. In all 3 groups, urinary mercury values were within the normal range for an unexposed population. Among the indicators of neurological effects the simple hearing reaction times test showed statistically significant differences among the 3 groups. In addition, various other nervous function tests revealed differences between the unexposed group and the other two. A positive correlation was found between simple reaction times and other test results in the whole sample and in the subsample of women. Moreover, the prevalence of symptoms related to low mercury exposure, collected by a questionnaire, was higher in the 2 exposed groups. Interpretation of these results is difficult because of the absence of increased urinary mercury levels in the exposed population. Some possible explanations are offered.
Medicina del lavoro, Jan.-Feb. 1990, Vol.81, No.1, p.307-315. 22 ref.

CIS 91-767 Mercury
International chemical safety card. Danger symbol: toxic. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; skin absorption; irritation of skin; pulmonary oedema; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). Long-term exposure effects: may have effects on the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and kidneys; may cause birth defects, specifically brain damage. EC identification number and labelling codes: 080-001-00-0; T; R23-33; S7-44. United Nations number and hazard class: UN 2809 (8; 123; III).
Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg; International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1990. 2p. Illus.

CIS 91-547 Roels H.A., Lauwerys R.R., Buchet J.P., Bernard A.M., Lijnen P., Van Houte G.
Urinary kallikrein activity in workers exposed to cadmium, lead, or mercury vapour
A significant reduction of kallikrein activity in urine (assayed by its amidolytic activity) was found in 64 normotensive workers who had been exposed to cadmium for 11 years on average and whose cadmium concentrations in urine ranged from 2.2 to 33.1µg/g creatinine. The mean (geometric) urinary kallikrein acitivity (in U/g creatinine) amounted to 0.52 in the control group (n = 193) against 0.39 in the cadmium group. A reduction of aldosterone release (aldosterone in urine) associated with an increased natriuresis was also observed. This might constitute a compensatory mechanism maintaining blood pressure in the normal range. This study indicates that cadmium can induce an irreversible toxic effect in the distal nephron. It also suggests that an excessive cadmium body burden alone may not be sufficient to induce hypertension, but in individuals whose blood pressure regulation may be impaired by other factors cadmium could stimulate the development of hypertension. This study also supports the recommendation to prevent hypertensive subjects from being exposed to cadmium. There was no indication that moderate exposure to mercury vapour was associated with a reduction of kallikrein production by the kidney.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1990, Vol.47, No.5, p.331-337. 35 ref.

CIS 90-924 Soleo L., Urbano M.L., Petrera V., Ambrosi L.
Effects of low exposure to inorganic mercury on psychological performance
The study groups included eight chronically exposed workers and 20 who were only occasionally exposed. These were compared with a control group of 22 subjects from the same plant who were not exposed to mercury. All subjects were administered the WHO test battery to detect preclinical signs of central nervous system impairment. Urinary mercury was used as indicator for internal dose. Of the psychic functions explored by behavioural tests, only short term auditory memory was found to be impaired in the chronically exposed workers. The chronically exposed workers were also found to be more depressed than those in the two other groups. No changes of visual motor functions were observed. The personality of the occupationally exposed workers was found to be considerably changed compared with that of the control group. On the basis of the results obtained and in view of urinary mercury mean concentrations in the exposed group which were 30-40µg/L over the years, it is suggested that the TLV-TWA for mercury should be lowered to 0.025mg/m³ and that the biological urinary exposure indicator for biological monitoring should be 25µg/L.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 1990, Vol.47, No.2, p.105-109. 29 ref.

CIS 90-923 Barregård L., Sällsten G., Järvholm B.
Mortality and cancer incidence in chloralkali workers exposed to inorganic mercury
Mortality and cancer incidence were studied in men exposed to inorganic mercury at eight Swedish chloralkali plants where individual biological monitoring data were available. Urinary mercury excretion has declined from about 200µg/L during the 1950s to less than 50µg/L today. These workers had also been exposed to chlorine and static magnetic fields. At some of the plants there had been a low degree of exposure to asbestos. In total, 1190 men had been monitored for at least one year between 1946 and 1984. Their mortality and cancer incidence were compared with those of the general male population. Mortality from all causes was not significantly increased. Cardiovascular mortality was slightly increased for no known reason. An excess of lung tumours was seen possibly caused by previous exposure to asbestos. Mortality from non-malignant diseases of the brain and the kidneys, the main target organs in mercury poisoning, was not increased, nor was the incidence of brain tumours (3 observed v 1.1 expected) or kidney tumours (3 observed v 1.9 expected).
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 1990, Vol.47, No.2, p.99-104. 28 ref.

1989

CIS 90-1905 Piikivi L., Ruokonen A.
Renal function and long-term low mercury vapor exposure
Renal function indicated by urinary albumin and N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase was studied among a group of 60 chlorine-alkali workers and 60 controls. Exposure to mercury (Hg) vapour had occurred for at least 5 years (mean exposure: 13.7 years). The estimated long-term exposure level, calculated from TWA blood concentrations of Hg, had been ca. 25µg/m³ of air. Neither glomerular nor tubular effects were shown in the exposed workers.
Archives of Environmental Health, May-June 1989, Vol.44, No.3, p.146-149. 24 ref.

CIS 90-1422
Arbetarskyddsstyrelsen
Mercury and amalgam in dental care [Sweden]
Kvicksilver och amalgam inom tandvården [in Swedish]
General recommendations on work with mercury and amalgam in dental care, published as an ordinance. Contents: general information on mercury and amalgam, amalgam preparation and tooth filling, polishing and drilling, washing up, autoclaving, sterilisation, handling of amalgam separators, waste removal, storage of mercury and amalgam residues, personal hygiene and working clothes, air monitoring and medical examination, a list of other relevant ordinances.
LiberDistribution, 162 89 Stockholm, Sweden, 4 Oct. 1989. 12p.

CIS 90-1268 Hursh J.B., Clarkson T.W., Miles E.F., Goldsmith L.A.
Percutaneous absorption of mercury vapor by man
The aims of this study were to determine the role of skin exposure in the uptake of mercury vapour in air vs. inhalation exposure, and to explore the fate of the skin-absorbed mercury vapour. Five volunteer subjects exposed the skin of their forearm to mercury vapour at concentrations of 0.88-2.14ng/cm³ for periods of 27-43 minutes. Approximately 216-844ng was taken up by the skin. About half of the mercury taken up was shed by normal shedding of the skin during several weeks, while the remainder diffused into the general circulation and could be measured as systemic mercury. Comparing total skin area to the lung as a route of entry for mercury vapour at the same concentration, the rate of uptake was estimated to be 2.2% of the rate of uptake by the lung. It is therefore concluded that absorption of mercury vapour by the skin poses a very minor occupational hazard compared to inhalation. A model is proposed that describes the uptake and loss of skin-derived systemic mercury.
Archives of Environmental Health, Mar.-Apr. 1989, Vol.44, No.2, p.120-127. 12 ref.

CIS 90-45 Mercury and mineral compounds
Mercure et composés minéraux [in French]
Chemical safety information sheet. Exposure limits (France, 1987) = 0.1mg/m³ (mineral compounds); 0.05mg/m³ (mercury vapour). Toxicity: skin absorption; respiratory tract irritation; renal damage; encephalopathy; contrary to mercury metal, mercury salts are very toxic when ingested; mercurialentis. EC identification numbers and mandatory labelling codes for elemental mercury: Nos. 080-001-00-0; T; R23, R33, S7, S44.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 1989. 6p. 36 ref.

CIS 89-1938 Piikivi L., Tolonen U.
EEG findings in chlor-alkali workers subjected to low long term exposure to mercury vapour
The cerebral effect of long term (mean 15.6, SD 8.9 years) and low (about 25µg/m³ air) exposure to mercury vapour was studied in a group of 41 workers in a chlor-alkali plant and in a group of matched controls by electroencephalography (EEG). In the visually interpreted EEGs only a tendency for an increased number of EEG abnormalities, especially focal ones, could be seen in the exposed subjects. In the computerised EEG (cEEG), however, the exposed workers had significantly slower and more attenuated EEGs than the controls. This difference was most prominent in the occipital region, became milder parietally, and was almost absent frontally. Our results suggest that cEEG may show early effects on the brain of exposure to mercury vapour.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, June 1989, Vol.46, No.6, p.370-375. 19 ref. Illus.

CIS 89-1795 Mercury (inorganic)
Mercurio inorgánico [in Spanish]
Chemical safety information sheet published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Exposure limit (OSHA): TWA (8h) = 0.1mg/m³. Toxicity: skin absorption; irritant; pneumonitis; renal damage; dermatitis; sensitiser; neurotoxic effects.
Noticias de seguridad, Oct. 1989, Vol.51, No.10, 4p. insert.

CIS 89-1968 Mercury - Environmental aspects
Aspects covered in this criteria document: physicochemical properties; sources of mercury in the environment; uptake, loss and accumulation in organisms; toxicity to microorganisms, aquatic and terrestrial organisms; effects of mercury in the field; evaluation (marine, freshwater and terrestrial environment).
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1989. 115p. Bibl. Price: CHF 14.00.

CIS 89-834 Piikivi L., Hänninen H.
Subjective symptoms and psychological performance of chlorine-alkali workers
Subjective symptoms and psychological performances on a computer-administered test battery were studied among a group of 60 chlorine-alkali workers and their matched referents. The exposure time of the group exposed to inorganic mercury vapour had been about 14 years, and the estimated long-term average exposure had been about 25µg/m³ of air. The exposed workers had an actual mercury concentration of 51.9 (SD 25.0, range 15-150) nmol/L in blood and 84.1 (SD 56.6, range 15-260) nmol/L in urine. Neither perceptual motor nor memory or learning abilities of the mercury-exposed workers showed any disturbances in a comparison with the referents. However, the exposed group reported statistically significantly more memory disturbances than the referents. Strain caused by three-shift work was a possible cofactor for other increased subjective symptoms, namely, for sleep disorders, fatigue, and confusion.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 1989, Vol.15, No.1, p.69-74. Illus. 24 ref.

1988

CIS 90-1945 Mazarrasa Mowinckel D.F.O.
Toxicology of mercury
Toxicología del mercurio [in Spanish]
This article analyses the chemical behaviour of mercury in its various forms, from its entry into the human organism, by means of inhalation or ingestion, its biotransformation, transportation and distribution (kidney, liver, mucous membranes of the intestinal track, spleen, testicles, brain cells) until its elimination and excretion. Some historical references to the illnesses caused by mercury in mines and industry are also included.
Mapfre seguridad, 1st Quarter 1988, No.29, p.29-35. 6 ref. Illus.

CIS 90-425 Mercury
Rtęć [in Polish]
Chemical safety information sheet. Permissible exposure limit (Poland) = 0.01mg/m³.
Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, 1 Ul. Tamka, 00-349 Warszawa 30, Poland, 1988. 2p.

CIS 90-261 King R.
Mercury poisoning and its control
Data sheet on the hazards of exposure to mercury and on preventive measures to be taken.
United Trade Press Limited, 33-35 Bowling Green Lane, London EC1R 0DA, United Kingdom, 1988. p.F:17:1-F:17:3.

CIS 89-597 Schmidt P.
Zentralinstitut für Arbeitsmedizin der DDR
Biological monitoring methods in occupational medicine
Biologische Kontrollmethoden in der Arbeitsmedizin [in German]
Manual for occupational health care personnel and inspectors. Chapters cover: the value of laboratory diagnosis to the occupational physician; biological exposure tests as a component of medical surveillance of workers exposed to harmful substances; toxicological bases of exposure assessment; exposure to substances in the general environment as a part of total exposure; principles of genetics applicable to the evaluation of exposure tests; recognition and evaluation of carcinogens, mutagens, teratogens and embryotoxic substances; variations in the pollution of workplace air; sampling; the analytical laboratory; assessment of the reliability and validity of biological exposure tests; properties, analysis and monitoring of 21 substances or groups of substances.
VEB Volk und Gesundheit, Berlin, German Democratic Republic, 1988. 464p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index.

CIS 88-1618 Mercury and its hazards
Quecksilber und seine Gefahren [in German]
Mercurio e i suoi pericoli [in Italian]
Les risques d'intoxication par le mercure [in French]
Contents of this illustrated booklet: history, natural deposits and extraction, physical and chemical properties, harmful effects of mercury, hazards of natural and industrial pollution, hazard evaluation (sampling and analysis, Swiss exposure limits), risk of mercury poisoning in industries and trades.
Cahiers suisses de la sécurité du travail, Feb. 1988, No.145. 45p. Illus. 37 ref.

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