Smelting and refining operations - 428 entries found

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1993

CIS 94-1982 Horiguchi S., Kurosawa K., Endo G., Kiyota I., Teramoto K., Shinagawa K., Wakitani F., Fukui M.
A 40-year review of health of workers at a lead reclamation factory
Investigators at Osaka City University Medical School have followed the workers at a lead reclamation plant since 1950. This article reviews the evolution of environmental lead levels over the period and relates them to technical progress, legislation and indicators of worker health, such as blood and urinary lead levels and delta-aminolevulinic acid excretion. The overall trend has been one of improvement, although atmospheric lead concentrations still exceed official standards.
Journal of Science of Labour - Rōdō Kagaku, 10 Jan. 1993, Vol.69, No.1 (Part II), p.1-12. Illus. 23 ref.

CIS 94-1643 Finley B., Fehling K., Falerios M., Paustenbach D.
Field validation for sampling and analysis of airborne hexavalent chromium
Airborne hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] levels were measured at 25 industrial sites which have soils containing chromite ore processing residues. A majority (28 of 44) of the mean indoor and outdoor Cr(VI) concentrations measured at the industrial sites were within the range of concentrations measured at 15 residential sites (0.38-3.3ng/m³), indicating that elevated levels of Cr(VI) in soils do not necessarily result in elevated levels of Cr(VI) in air. A validation study was performed to demonstrate the precision of the impinger train technique and to compare the results with data collected using other Cr(VI) monitoring methods. Using airborne Cr(VI) data from 24 identical sets of impinger train samplers in the same environment, a coefficient of variation of 24.1% was obtained. These results indicate that the impinger train method is sufficiently reproducible to satisfy any health-related airborne Cr(VI) monitoring needs.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Mar. 1993, Vol.8, No.3, p.191-200. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 94-1291 Ny E.T., Heederik D., Kromhout H., Jongeneelen F.
The relationship between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in air and in urine of workers in a Söderberg potroom
The relationship between increase of urinary 1-hydroxypyrene over the workweek and the airborne concentrations of benzo(a)pyrene and coal tar pitch volatiles (CTPVs) were studied among groups of workers in a vertical-stud Söderberg potroom of an aluminium smelter. There was a strong correlation between the natural logarithm of the pyrene concentration and the natural logarithm of the total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) concentration in personal air samples. A strong positive correlation was also found between the natural logarithm of increase in urinary 1-hydroxypyrene and the natural logarithm of the estimated airborne PAH exposure when the use of extra layers of cloth under respirators was taken into account. A contradictory fact was found: the use of extra facial protection seemed to lead to a strong increase of 1-hydroxypyrene over the workweek.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1993, Vol.54, No.6, p.277-284. Illus. 27 ref.

CIS 94-311 White G.P., Mathias C.G.T., Davin J.S.
Dermatitis in workers exposed to antimony in a melting process
An employee at a brazing-rod manufacturing plant developed a generalized eruption of follicular papules and pustules. His job tasks included breaking up antimony ingots and melting the pieces in a crucible; he was exposed to antimony metal dust and to antimony trioxide fumes. Two fellow employees who later performed the same job tasks developed similar eruptions. The clinical and workplace evaluations suggested that the fumes from melting antimony were the cause of the dermatoses, and that the current Occupational Safety and Health Administration permissible exposure limit is not adequate in preventing cutaneous effects of antimony exposure.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Apr. 1993, Vol.35, No.4, p.392-395. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 93-1644 Standring P.
Health and Safety Executive
Cancer epidemiology in coal tar pitch volatile-associated industries
Studies indicate that lung cancer mortality is positively associated with cumulative exposure to coal tar pitch volatiles and with length of time worked in coke oven areas. There is some evidence that there is also an increased risk of genito-urinary and kidney cancer mortality in coke oven work. There is an increase in the incidence of, or mortality from, a range of tumours in the aluminium production industry where bladder cancer and lung cancer increase with increasing length of time exposed to coal tar pitch volatiles. Only limited studies are available in the tar distillation industry; one study indicated a possible link between tar distillation work and lung and bladder cancer.
HMSO Books, P.O. Box 276, London SW8 5DT, United Kingdom, 1993. iv, 14p. 32 ref. Price: GBP 5.00.

CIS 93-1069
Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften
Non-ferrous metal industries - Safety regulations and enforcement rules [Germany]
Metallhütten - VBG und Durchführungsanweisungen [in German]
The regulations also cover ore preparation and reduction plants and the smelting and casting of non-ferrous metals. They deal with plant construction, layout and operation and describe the various safety measures required (work with sieves and separators, furnaces of various descriptions, continuous casting installations, electrolysis). Some additional information is provided in the rules.
Carl Heymanns Verlag KG, Luxemburger Strasse 449, D-W-5000 Köln 41, Germany, 1993. 20p. + 11p. Index.

1992

CIS 96-1781 Horiguchi S., Endo G., Kiyota I., Teramoto K., Shinagawa K., Wakitani F., Tanaka H., Konishi Y., Kiyota A., Ota A., Fukui M.
Frequency of cold infections in workers at a lead refinery
En seiren kōjō sagyōsha ni okeru kanbō kansen no hindo [in Japanese]
The study covered 56 workers at a secondary lead refinery, 46 male and 10 female, aged 18-73, whose lengths of time working with lead ranged from less than 1 to over 43 years. Interviews were supplemented with blood and urine analyses. No cases of influenza were reported, but the frequency of colds was higher in those with more than 40µg lead/100g blood, and especially high in those with more than 60µg/100g. Similarly, the likelihood of contracting colds more than twice per year was higher in the group with blood lead levels >60µg/100g than in those with lower levels. This confirms a report published by others 10 years previously, and suggests suppression of the immune system in lead-exposed workers.
Osaka City Medical Journal, June 1992, Vol.38, No.1, p.79-81. 5 ref.

CIS 94-1670 Sarpong J.Y.
Report on industrial waste management project in Tema. Part 1
Part 1 of this report presents the results of an investigation into waste disposal in the textile, paint, soap and metal extraction industries in Tema, Ghana. Analysis of liquid effluents from all factories showed that mercury concentrations were far above the standard values of five comparable countries; daily average concentrations of other trace metals were slightly above the comparative standard values. Gaseous emissions (including sulfur dioxide, chlorine, nitrogen oxides, hydrogen fluoride) were not quantified. Solid wastes showed high concentrations of lead, mercury, chromium, manganese and aluminium. A number of recommendations are made for the prevention, reduction and treatment of waste effluents.
Department of Factories Inspectorate, Ministry of Mobilization and Social Welfare, P.O. Box 62, Tema, Ghana, 1992. v, 48p. 7 ref.

CIS 94-301 Mora V., Pairon J.C., Garnier R., Laureillard J., Lionnet F., Hoguet L., Schaeffer A., Efthymiou M.L., Brochard P.
Acute arsine poisoning in a ferrous metal foundry: Report on two cases
Intoxication aiguë par l'hydrogène arsénié dans une fonderie de métaux ferreux. A propos de deux observations [in French]
Acute arsine poisoning was observed in 2 workers employed in a ferrous metal foundry. One presented an acute haemolysis with acute renal failure, requiring haemodialysis. Renal function slowly recovered but high blood pressure was observed secondarily. The 2nd case presented as predominantly cytolytic hepatitis on the 20th day after acute haemolysis. The evolution was rapidly resolutive, with no transfusion needed. The hypothesis of a causal role of arsine intoxication in this hepatitis is therefore possible. Subsequent atmospheric measurements in the workplace showed detectable amounts of arsine during the shovelling of the scories: results were < or equal to the threshold limit value when the operations were performed in dry conditions. In contrast, an atmospheric level of 60ppm was observed when water was added to the scories. This could be due to arsenical impurities present in ferrosilicium and calcium carbide used in the foundry. These observations underline the potential risk of arsine intoxication in such industries and raise the possibility of a delayed cytolytic hepatitis.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1992, Vol.53, No.3, p.167-173. Illus. 21 ref.

CIS 93-1235 Clonfero E.
Environmental aspects in the aluminium industry - 2nd National Congress, Venice, 6-7 May 1991
Issue reproducing 22 papers presented at the Congress. Some of the issues covered: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure and its monitoring in the aluminium (Al) industry; hazards (primarily respiratory) among potroom workers; use of the histamine provocation test as a pre-employment selection method for Al workers; respiratory diseases among Al workers; general epidemiologic and mortality studies among Al workers; biomedical aspects of Al; biological monitoring of exposure to Al; dose-response relationship between Al welding fume exposure and effects on the central nervous system; evaluation of fluoride exposure in Al smelters; cancer prevention in the Al industry; biomonitoring of genotoxic exposure of Al workers.
Medicina del lavoro, Sep.-Oct. 1992, Vol.83, No.5, p.394-535. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 93-926 Ameille J., Brechot J.M., Brochard P., Capron F., Dore M.F.
Occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis in a smelter exposed to zinc fumes
A smelter exposed to zinc fumes reported severe recurrent episodes of cough, dyspnoea and fever. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) showed a marked increase in lymphocyte count with predominance of CD8 T-lymphocytes. Presence of zinc in alveolar macrophages was assessed by analytic transmission electron microscopy. This is the first case of recurrent bronchoalveolitis related to zinc exposure in which the clinical picture and BAL results indicate a probable hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
Chest, Mar. 1992, Vol.101, No.3, p.862-863. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 93-855 Rönnerberg A., Langmark F.
Epidemiologic evidence of cancer in aluminium reduction plant workers
This paper reviews the epidemiologic evidence of cancer risks among workers in aluminium reduction plants with emphasis on associations with specific work areas and exposures. Studies of workers manufacturing carbon products outside the aluminium industry were also reviewed since the work environment is similar to that encountered in the carbon area of aluminium plants. 16 publications form 11 separate studies were obtained from references cited through compact disc literature searching during the period 1980-1990, and from the Nordic Aluminium Industry's Secretariat for Health, Environment and Safety. Work in potrooms with Södeberg electrolytic cells was associated with increased risk of bladder cancer, and the increase was correlated with duration of tar exposure. There was a suggestion of increased risk of leukaemias and pancreatic cancers in potroom workers, and of kidney and brain cancers without any clear association with specific exposures or work areas. Results showed associations between lung cancer risk and tar exposure in Södeberg plants, and between lung cancer and work in prebake or carbon plants.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 1992, Vol.22, No.4, p.573-590. 42 ref.

CIS 93-482 Verma D.K., Julian J.A., Roberts R.S., Muir D.C.F., Jadon N., Shaw D.S.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) - A possible cause of lung cancer mortality among nickel/copper smelter and refinery workers
A retrospective industrial hygiene investigation was undertaken to explain the cause of a statistically significant excess lung cancer mortality observed in a subset of a large cohort of nickel workers involved in mining, smelting, and refining of nickel and copper in Ontario (Canada). The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how an industrial hygiene follow-up assessment of an epidemiological finding can help to identify a likely cause. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) alone or in association with particulate and gaseous contaminants (e.g. SO₂) were likely the causative agents of the excess lung cancer observed among the lead welders, cranemen, and arc furnace workers of the copper refinery.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, May 1992, Vol.53, No.5, p.317-324. Illus. 30 ref.

CIS 92-1548 Houck P., Milham S.
Quality of death certificate occupation data for a cohort of aluminum industry workers
Occupational data from death certificates have been used extensively in health studies but their quality has been questioned. In this study, data from the death certificates of aluminium plant workers were analysed. Aluminium industry employment was indicated in the certificate occupation/industry statement of 321 (80%) of the 403 total workers, 263 (94%) of the 280 workers who had been employed for 10 years or more, 156 (94%) of the 166 workers who died while employed, and 131 (95%) of the 138 workers who died after retirement. Of 82 certificates that did not indicate aluminium industry employment, 57 (70%) were from workers who were employed for fewer than 10 years and terminated employment for reasons other than death or retirement. This study supports the usefulness of death certificate occupational information.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1992, Vol.34, No.2, p.173-175. 9 ref.

1991

CIS 93-856 Simonato L., Fletcher A.C., Andersen A., Anderson K., Becker N., Chang-Claude J., Ferro G., Gérin M., Gray C.N., Hansen K.S., Kalliomäki P.L., Kurppa K., Langard S., Merló F., Moulin J.J., Newhouse M.L., Peto J., Pukkala E., Sjögren B., Wild P., Winkelmann R., Saracci R.
A historical prospective study of European stainless steel, mild steel and shipyard welders
A multicentre cohort of 11,092 male welders from 135 companies in 9 European countries was assembled with the aim of investigating the relationship of potential cancer risk, lung cancer in particular, with occupational exposure. Follow up was successful for 96.9% of the cohort. Overall, a statistically significant excess was reported for mortality from lung cancer (116 observed versus 86.81 expected deaths, SMR = 134). When analysed by type of welding, lung-cancer mortality increased with time since first exposure, particularly among stainless-steel welders. No clear relation was apparent between mortality from lung cancer and duration of exposure to or estimated cumulative dose of Ni or Cr. There were five deaths from pleural mesothelioma unrelated to the type of welding, drawing attention to the risk of exposure to asbestos in welding activities.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 1991, Vol.48, No.3, p.145-154. 36 ref.

CIS 93-562 Balya D.R.
Ion chromatographic measurement of fluoride and sulfur dioxide in samples collected at aluminum smelters
The traditional analytical techniques for the measurement of airborne fluoride and sulfur dioxide in aluminium smelting plants have been: ion-selective electrodes (ISE) for fluoride, and barium/thorin titration for SO₂. In this study, ion chromatography (IC) was evaluated as a substitute for these two techniques. Dust for particulate fluoride was collected on membrane filters with carbonate-treated backup pads to collect HF and SO₂. Gaseous fluoride and SO₂ were ultrasonically extracted from the treated pad, but particulate fluoride required a borate/carbonate fusion. Collection efficiency and recovery of the analytes, along with the acceptable working ranges and instrument conditions used with IC, are discussed. IC is a desirable substitute for the electrode and titration methods because it is easily automated and the two determinations may be performed simultaneously. Comparison of the techniques for field samples indicates that IC is an adequate substitute for the traditional measurement methods for full-shift samples of fluoride.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1991, Vol.52, No.8, p.320-323. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 93-587 Kongerud J., Rambjør Ø.
The influence of the helmet respirator on peak flow rate in aluminum potroom
The efficiency of the Racal Airstream helmet respirator in improving peak expiratory flow rates (PEFR) and symptoms (dyspnoea, wheezing, and cough) in aluminum potroom workers with respiratory complaints was assessed in 19 workers. Peak expiratory flow readings and symptom recording from a two-week working period with use of the respirator were compared with a period when the 3M 9906 disposable mask was used. The study was designed as a randomised, parallel, cross-over study with five or six daily measurements of PEFR and daily symptom recording. A significant number of workers (15) had a higher mean peak flow in the helmet period than in the non-helmet period (p<0.01); symptoms did not improve significantly in the helmet period. Objective evidence of respiratory protection was observed for the group of workers as a whole, but the effect on symptoms as well as individual effect on peak flow was minor in the majority of the workers.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1991, Vol.52, No.6, p.243-248. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 92-1580 Rosenberg N.
Asthma, alveolitis and pulmonary fibrosis in the aluminium industry
Asthme, alvéolite, fibrose pulmonaire dans l'industrie de l'aluminium et de ses sels [in French]
Symptoms of asthma and bronchial hyperactivity are usually observed in aluminium foundries, among workers in electrolysis workshops, and in places where alumina is reduced to metallic aluminium. Following an outline of the aluminium extraction procedure, the following subjects are examined: physiopathology (asthma, pulmonary aluminium pneumoconiosis, follicular alveolitis, alveolar proteinosis); prevalence of occupational asthma and diseases of the lower lung; diagnosis in the work environment; diagnostic confirmation in the laboratory; evolution of the disease; medical and technical control; compensation.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 1991, No.46, p.107-112. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 92-1644 Wennberg A., Iregren A., Struwe G., Cizinsky G., Hagman M., Johansson L.
Manganese exposure in steel smelters - A health hazard for the nervous system
Study of the effects of low-level exposure to manganese (0.19-1.39mg/m³ for 1-45 years) on 30 men (aged 20-64 years) from two steel smelting works and 60 unexposed referents (aged 22-65 years). The investigation covered: a general health inquiry, electroencephalography (EEG), brain-stem and cerebral auditory evoked potentials, diadochokinesometry, simple and complex reaction time, finger tapping, digit span, mental arithmetic, vocabulary, a coding task, manual dexterity, diagnostic interview scheme, dynamic rating scale for neurasthenic syndrome, and a comprehensive psychopathological rating scale. No group differences were found concerning health, the EEG or the psychiatric examinations. However, the diadochokinesis was slower, the P-300 latency and reaction time were increased, and finger-tapping and digit-span performance were impaired in the exposed group. The effects are interpreted as early (subclinical) signs of disturbances of the same type as parkinsonism. (A longer version of this article was published as a Swedish-language monograph in 1990, see CIS 91-949).
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 1991, Vol.17, No.4, p.255-262. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 92-1629 Ljunggren K.G., Lidums V., Sjögren B.
Blood and urine concentrations of aluminium among workers exposed to aluminium flake powders
In a group of workers exposed to aluminium flake powders, blood and urine concentrations of aluminium were assessed before and after vacation. Another group was investigated after retirement. Workers currently exposed to aluminium flake powders had urinary concentrations of the metal 80-90 times higher than those in occupationally non-exposed referents. The calculated half life for concentrations of aluminium in urine was 5 to 6 weeks based on 4 to 5 weeks of non-exposure. Among the retired workers the half lives varied from less than one up to 8 years and were related to the number of years since retirement. Thus, aluminium is retained and stored in several compartments of the body and eliminated from these compartments at different rates.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 1991, Vol.48, No.2, p.106-109. 16 ref.

CIS 92-1623 Järup L., Pershagen G.
Arsenic exposure, smoking, and lung cancer in smelter workers - A case-control study
A cohort of 3,916 Swedish copper smelter workers employed for at least 3 months between 1928 and 1967 was followed up through 1981. Arsenic exposure was estimated for different time periods at each workplace within the smelter. Detailed job records were linked to the exposure matrix, thus forming individual cumulative arsenic exposure measures for each smelter worker. Smoking history was collected for 107 lung cancer cases and 214 controls from the cohort. Lung cancer risks were positively related to cumulative arsenic exposure with smoking-standardised relative risks ranging from 0.7-8.7 in different exposure groups. A negative confounding by smoking was suggested in the higher exposure categories. The interaction between arsenic and smoking for the risk of developing lung cancer was intermediate between additive and multiplicative and appeared less pronounced among heavy smokers.
American Journal of Epidemiology, 15 Sep. 1991, Vol.134, No.6, p.545-551. 31 ref.

CIS 92-878 Spinelli J.J., Band P.R., Svirchev L.M., Gallagher R.P.
Mortality and cancer incidence in aluminum reduction plant workers
An historical cohort study was conducted among 4,213 men who worked for 5 or more years at an aluminium reduction plant. Standardised mortality and incidence ratios were used to compare the mortality and cancer incidence of the cohort with that of the population (British Columbia, Canada) and to examine risk by cumulative exposure to coal-tar pitch volatiles (CTPV) and electromagnetic fields. Significantly elevated rates were observed for bladder cancer incidence and brain cancer mortality. The risk of bladder cancer was strongly related to cumulative exposure to CTPV (p<.01). The risk for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma also increased with increasing exposure (p<.05), although the overall rate was similar to that of the general population. The lung cancer rate was as expected, but showed a weak association with CTPV exposure that was not statistically significant. No individual cause of death or incident cancer site was related to exposure to electromagnetic fields.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Nov. 1991, Vol.33, No.11, p.1150-1155. 10 ref.

CIS 92-145 Kongerud J., Samuelsen S.O.
A longitudinal study of respiratory symptoms in aluminum potroom workers
The influence of occupational work exposure and host factors on the incidence of dyspnoea and wheezing as reported in questionnaires was examined in 1,301 new employees in aluminium electrolytic potrooms. The incidence appeared to decrease after 2yr of exposure, and the estimated probability of development of symptoms was nearly 20% after 4yr. A total of 105 subjects developed dyspnoea and wheezing. Of 78 symptomatic subjects who were interviewed, 76% experienced improvement or absence of symptoms when off work. It is concluded that both total fluoride exposure and smoking are related to asthmatic symptoms in potroom workers, and the suggestion of a dose-response gradient was found for both variables. However, a causal relationship between fluorides and symptoms should be investigated further by specific bronchial provocation testing and by research for specific antibodies and other immunologic markers.
American Review of Respiratory Disease, July 1991, Vol.144, No.1, p.10-16. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 91-2019 Dernedde E., Gilbert D.
Prediction of wet-bulb globe temperatures in aluminum smelters
The wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) is the heat stress index commonly used to evaluate heat exposure in the workplace. Presently, heat exposure in aluminium smelters can only be measured after the start-up of the process, because no reliable method exists for its prediction during the design stage. In this study, a method is outlined that can predict the WBGT in cell rooms of aluminium smelters. The method is based on a fundamental approach using a radiation analysis of a prebake cell room and a heat transfer analysis of the WBGT instruments. The method was validated against plant measurements over a wide range of WBGT values. The difference between observed and predicted values of the area WBGT was less than 3%. Thus, heat exposure may be evaluated during the design stage of a smelter and appropriate steps may be taken to improve the design, if necessary.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Mar. 1991, Vol.52, No.3, p.120-126. Illus. 18 ref.

1990

CIS 91-1890 Kongerud J., Grønnesby J.K., Magnus P.
Respiratory symptoms and lung function of aluminium potroom workers
The association of occupational exposure with respiratory disease and lung function was examined in a cross-sectional study of 1805 aluminium potroom workers. Work-related asthmatic symptoms occurred in 15% of the workers with an exposure of 10 years or more and in 8% of the workers who had been employed less than 5 years. In a multiple logistic regression analysis an odds ratio (OR) of 3.4 (95% confidence interval (95% CI 2.1-5.8) for work-related asthmatic symptoms was estimated for long versus short duration of employment. Airflow limitation was also significantly related to years of exposure (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.7-3.9). Current occupational exposure and the occurrence of respiratory symptoms were not significantly associated. The results suggest that exposure to air pollutants in the primary aluminium industry may lead to the development of asthmatic symptoms, as well as to reduced respiratory function.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 1990, Vol.16, No.4, p.270-277. 31 ref.

CIS 91-1598 Sakai T., Araki T., Ushio K.
Accumulation of erythrocyte nucleotides and their pattern in lead workers
Nucleotides in erythrocytes of lead-exposed subjects were analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Most of the pyrimidine levels correlated well with blood lead concentrations (Pb-B) and pyrimidine 5'-nucleotidase (P5N) activity. Highly significant correlations were found between Pb-B and uridine 5'-diphosphate-glucose (UDPG), cytidine 5'-triphosphate (CTP), or CDP-choline (CDPC). The levels of these compounds were sharply elevated when P5N activity was reduced to levels less than 7µmole/h.g haemoglobin (Hb), which corresponded to a Pb-B of 60µg/100g. Therefore, concentration of these nucleotides may provide a useful index of lead poisoning. Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) concentrations were correlated negatively with Pb-B, whereas adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP) concentrations were correlated positively with Pb-B. These results suggest that lead affects not only pyrimidine nucleotide metabolism but also purine nucleotide metabolism (the energy production system).
Archives of Environmental Health, Sep.-Oct. 1990, Vol.45, No.5, p.273-277. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 91-949 Wennberg A., Cizinsky G., Hagman M., Iregren A., Johansson L., Struwe G.
Manganese exposure in Swedish steel smelters - A health hazard to the nervous system
Manganexponering i svensk smältverksindustri - En hälsorisk för nervsystemet [in Swedish]
30 men (age 20-64 years) who had been exposed to 0.19-0.45mg/m³ of manganese for 1-45 years at manganese steel smelters and 60 controls (age 22-65 years) were examined. The investigation covered: a general health inquiry; brainstem and cerebral auditive evoked potential (AEP); EEG and diadochokinesometry; simple and complex reaction time, finger tapping, digit span, mental arithmetic, vocabulary, a coding task and manual dexterity; diagnostic interview scheme (DIS), dynamic rating scale for neurasthenic syndrome (DNS) and comprehensive psychopathological rating scale (CPRS). No group differences concerning health, EEG or the psychiatric examinations were found. Diadochokinesis was slower, cerebral AEP latency increased, reaction time and tapping digit span were impaired in the exposed group. These effects are interpreted as early signs of disturbances of the same type as parkinsonism.
Arbetsmiljöinstitutet, Förlagstjänst, 171 84 Solna, Sweden, 1990. 32p. Illus. 26 ref.

1989

CIS 95-2257 Horns H., Wettschureck R.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz
Catalogue of noise-reducing measures in the manufacturing industries - Metalworking industry
Katalog lärmmindernder Massnahmen in der Fertigung - Metallverarbeitung [in German]
More than 150 examples of noise control in the metal-working industries as well as in foundries, steelworks and the aluminium industry are described. Included are, for example, the noise control measures applied to machines such as rolling mills, rolling machines for metal forming, presses, shears, metalcutting saws, grinding machines, hydraulic pumps, conveyors, hammers and drills.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Verlag für neue Wissenschaft GmbH., Postfach 10 11 10, Am Alten Hafen 113-115, 2850 Bremerhaven 1, Germany, 1989. 391p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: DEM 40.50.

CIS 92-883 Chan-Yeung M., Enarson D.A., MacLean L., Irving D.
Longitudinal study of workers in an aluminium smelter
A 6yr follow-up study was carried out among workers in an aluminium smelter in British Columbia (Canada) to evaluate their respiratory symptoms. Analyses were conducted on 586 male workers who did not change their job location or smoking habits between the initial and the follow-up study. Smokers and older workers had a greater decline in lung function than did non-smokers and younger workers. Leukocyte counts done during the initial study were found to be an independent predictor of longitudinal decline in lung function. There was no significantly accelerated decline in lung function among potroom workers compared to controls, probably because of the "healthy worker effect" and generally improved working conditions.
Archives of Environmental Health, May-June 1989, Vol.44, No.3, p.134-139. 10 ref.

CIS 92-157 Winder C., Baker G.J.
A fresh start - Report of a one-day workshop on occupational asthma in the aluminium industry
This workshop on occupational asthma in the primary aluminium smelting industry was held in Sydney, Australia, 7 April 1989. The 1st session considered health issues relating to occupational asthma and included presentations on the pathogenesis of occupational asthma, the airborne chemical hazards associated with aluminium smelting, and epidemiological perspectives on the relationship between asthma and occupational exposure. The 2nd session examined practices in the industry and covered control measures, respiratory protection, occupational health programmes and employee education. The workshop confirmed that occupational asthma occurs in the Australian aluminium industry and, while respiratory protection can probably prevent the problem, better engineering controls are required.
Medical Journal of Australia, 4 Sep. 1991, Vol.151, No.5, p.273-276. 5 ref.

CIS 91-1520 Javelaud B., Lagoutte A., Malikouti H., Boudène C.
Measurement method of urinary arsenic without prior mineralisation of the sample - 2. Urinary arsenic levels in smelter workers exposed to arsenic dust
Intérêt d'une méthode de dosage de l'arsenic urinaire sans minéralisation préalable de l'échantillon - 2. L'arsenic urinaire des ouvriers fondeurs exposés aux poussières arsenicales [in French]
Gold ore smelting workers are exposed to arsenic dust. Biological monitoring of the urine of the workers at an arsenic trioxide recovery plant was carried out between 1983 to 1987. Urinary arsenic levels were measured using a method not relying on prior mineralisation of the sample. 250 samples were analysed. The influence of smoking on the urinary levels of arsenic became evident when a comparison was made between the arsenic contamination of tobacco smoked by the workers and that of tobacco generally marketed. The determination method is not expensive and it is recommended for the biological monitoring of workers and as an epidemiological tool.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1989, Vol.50, No.1, p.87-92. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 91-859 Holness D.L., Taraschuk I.C., Nethercott J.R.
Health status of copper refinery workers with specific reference to selenium exposure
Copper refinery workers exposed to selenium were studied before, during and after a shutdown period. Urine selenium levels were 83 ± 30µmol/mol creatinine and 69 ± 27µmol/mol creatinine when measured on two occasions during exposure compared with 56 ± 17µmol/mol creatinine when the workers had been free of exposure to selenium for 10 weeks. The refinery workers reported more nose and eye irritation, indigestion, stomach pain and fatigue than controls. "Garlic-like" breath odour was reported by many of the exposed workers. Haemoglobin levels were found to be inversely correlated with the urine selenium level and a positive correlation was noted for the interactive effect of urine selenium and urine arsenic levels on haemoglobin.
Archives of Environmental Health, Sep.-Oct. 1989, Vol.44, No.5, p.291-297. 49 ref.

CIS 90-1036 Lavie P., Chillag N., Epstein R., Tzischinsky O., Givon R., Fuchs S., Shahal B.
Sleep disturbances in shift-workers: a marker for maladaptation syndrome
The present study investigates the association between sleep disturbances in shift workers and their general adaptation to the shift system. 316 refinery and 55 aluminium factory shift-workers participated in this study. In both plants, sleep disturbances were significantly associated with age, with dissatisfaction with working conditions and the quality of domestic life, with increased morbidity and increased high blood pressure. The association between high blood pressure and morbidity and sleep disturbances remained significant after adjusting for age. Shift workers complaining about their sleep also had higher blood pressure values than day workers with sleep disturbances. These findings suggest that periodic evaluation of sleep quality in rotating shift workers can provide useful information regarding their general level of adaptation to the shift system.
Work and Stress, Jan.-Mar. 1989, Vol.3, No.1, p.33-40. 25 ref.

CIS 90-108 Eklund A., Arns R., Blaschke E., Hed J., Hjertquist S.O., Larsson K., Löwgren H., Nyström, Sköld C.M., Tornling G.
Characteristics of alveolar cells and soluble components in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from non-smoking aluminium potroom workers
The influence of inhalation of aluminium oxide and fluorides on the alveolar milieu was studied by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in 14 male non-smoking potroom workers; 28 non-smoking healthy volunteers served as controls. The total numbers, concentrations, and proportions of various alveolar cells did not differ between the groups. The concentrations of albumin and fibronectin in BAL fluid were significantly higher (p < 0.01 for both) in the exposed workers, reflecting an increased alveolar capillary permeability and an activation of alveolar macrophages (AMs). The concentration of angiotensin converting enzyme, another AM marker, was, however, decreased (p < 0.01) in the workers. The concentration of hyaluronan, a fibroblast marker, did not differ between the groups. AMs from workers had a decreased capacity (p < 0.05) to interact with yeast C3b particles but not to ingest them. The expression of HLA-DR and OKM1 on the cell surfaces of AMs were equal in the two groups. The BAL findings were not accompanied by restrictive lung disease in the workers. The fact that only a discrete alveolitis was found in the potroom workers may be due to a low grade of exposure to alumina and fluorides to frequent use of respiratory protection equipment.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Nov. 1989, Vol.46, No.11, p.782-786. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 90-217 Roels H.A., Lauwerys R.R., Buchet J.P., Bernard A.M., Vos A., Oversteyns M.
Health significance of cadmium induced renal dysfunction: A five year follow up
To assess the health significance of early renal changes after chronic exposure to cadmium, 23 workers removed from exposure because of the discovery of an increased urinary excretion of β₂-microglobulin or retinol binding protein, or both, have been examined once a year for five years. Eight of these workers had also an increased level of albuminuria. These workers had been exposed to cadmium for 6-41.7 years (mean 25 years). It was confirmed that proteinuria induced by cadmium is irreversible. The most important finding, however, is a significant increase of creatinine and β₂-microglobulin concentrations in serum with time, indicating a progressive reduction of the glomerular filtration rate despite removal from exposure. Serum alkaline phosphatase activity also increases significantly with time. In conclusion, the present study indicates that early renal changes induced by cadmium should be regarded as adverse effects; they are predictive of an exacerbation of the age related decline in the glomerular filtration rate.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Nov. 1989, Vol.46, No.11, p.755-764. Illus. 41 ref.

CIS 89-835 Sandström A.I.M., Wall S.G.I., Taube A.
Cancer incidence and mortality among Swedish smelter workers
Cancer incidence was analysed in a retrospective cohort of 3,710 male Swedish smelter workers between 1958 and 1982 using a record linkage with the Swedish Cancer Register. During this period 467 cancers were registered in the cohort. An excess incidence of total cancer of about 30% was shown relative to general and local populations mainly due to 120 respiratory cancers. Excess SMRs for all cancer and for respiratory cancer were highly significant. Trends in the incidence of cancer were studied using moving 5yr calendar periods. A decreasing rate of lung cancer was found during 1976-80 for both mortality and incidence. Incidence figures for 2yrs more show a continued decreasing trend. This is validated by an analysis of different employment cohorts, taking latency into account, showing that the later the date of first employment the lower the incidence of cancer, especially for lung cancer.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 1989, Vol.46, No.2, p.82-89. Illus. 14 ref.

1988

CIS 90-918 Thériault G.P., Tremblay C.G., Armstrong B.G.
Risk of ischemic heart disease among primary aluminium production workers
The risk of ischaemic heart disease (IHD) has been studied in relation to working conditions encountered in a primary aluminium smelter employing over 6,000 men. During the period 1975-1983, 306 new cases of IHD were identified which were matched with 575 referents. Results showed that white collar workers had a significantly lower risk of IHD (odds ratio 0.47, 95% confidence interval 0.31-0.70). Among blue collar workers, a significantly higher risk was observed for workers in the reduction division of the plant (OR = 1.72, CI = 1.09-2.97) including, in particular, Soderberg (OR = 1.71, CI = 1.07-2.72) and prebake (OR = 2.26, CI = 1.27-4.02) potroom workers. The risk of IHD did not increase with the length of time worked in these occupations. The search for associations (among blue collar workers) of risk with 9 specific contaminants (benzene soluble material, fluoride, total dust, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, thermal stress, noise, physical load, and mental load) proved inconclusive, with no association reaching statistical significance.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 1988, Vol.13, No.6, p.659-666. 11 ref.

CIS 90-126 Czerwinski E., Nowak J., Dabrowska D., Skolarczyk A., Kita B., Ksiezyk M.
Bone and joint pathology in fluoride-exposed workers
Clinical and radiological investigations were performed for 2,258 aluminum workers exposed to fluoride for an average of 17.6 yr (standard deviation = 7.6). Changes in bone and joints were presented in detail in three groups: (1) exposed up to 5 yr (135 cases), (2) exposed from 6-32yr (1,463 cases), and (3) retired workers (660 cases). A semi-quantitative assessment of early fluorosis was introduced. A 20.2% incidence of fluorosis was found, but, according to Roholm, only 1.05% was in stage I. The disease was mainly in the pre-stages of O and OI. A close relationship between the occurrence of fluorosis and the time and degree of fluoride exposure was found. The difficulties in diagnosing skeletal fluorosis result from the questionable sensitivity of the x-ray techniques and from the non-specificity of the associated symptoms. A quantitative method to assess osteosclerosis and bone structure alteration is needed.
Archives of Environmental Health, Sept.-Oct. 1988, Vol.43, No.5, p.340-343. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 89-1178 Armstrong B., Tremblay C., Theriault G.
Compensating bladder cancer victims employed in aluminium reduction plants
A criterion for eligibility to compensation is sought for bladder cancer cases among workers in the aluminium smelting industry. Probability that a case of bladder cancer was caused by occupational exposure can be estimated from a relationship derived from results of epidemiologic studies. Because the effects of occupational exposure and smoking apparently combine multiplicatively, this probability is independent of whether a case patient smoked. Estimated probabilities of causation have been used in a criterion for eligibility to compensation by the Quebec workers' compensation board. Workers with cancer for whom the upper 95% confidence limit of the probability of causation is at least 50% are compensated. This implies a minimum cumulative exposure to benzo(a)pyrene of 19µg/m³/year. Possible alternative approaches to compensation are discussed.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Oct. 1988, Vol.30, No.10, p.771-775. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 89-844
Ministerstvo cvetnoj metallurgii SSSR
Safety rules for lead and zinc production
Pravila bezopasnosti pri proizvodstve svinca i cinka [in Russian]
Safety rules for the construction and operation of installations for lead and zinc production. Contents: preparation of furnace charges; roasting lead-ore concentrates; smelting; preparation of coal dust; granulation of slag; ladles; lead refining; roasting zinc-ore concentrates and charges; hydrometallurgical reduction; electroprecipitation of zinc; rotary kilns; cadmium production; cooling of metallurgical equipment; waste-heat boilers and evaporative cooling; heating of metallurgical equipment; responsibilities in case of non-observance of these rules.
Izdatel'stvo "Metallurgija", 2-j Obydenskij per., d.14, 119857, GSP, Moskva G-34, USSR, 1988. 16p. Price: SUR 0.05.

CIS 89-486 Fanning D.
A mortality study of lead workers, 1926-1985
In a case-control study of 867 deaths between 1926 and 1985 of men who had relatively high occupational lead exposure, compared with 1,206 who died during the same period, and whose lead exposure had been low or absent, there was a statistically significant excess of deaths from cerebrovascular disease between 1946 and 1965. There were also signs of a decreasing secular trend in the odds ratios for deaths from this cause between 1926 and 1985, with no difference between the two groups over the past 20 years. There was no statistically significant excess in the number of deaths from malignant neoplasms, either in general or for specific sites. Previous evidence of an increased risk of death from cerebrovascular disease is therefore confirmed, but it would seem that with the introduction of stricter standards of lead control that this has now disappeared, as has any marginal risk of death from malignant disease.
Archives of Environmental Health, May-June 1988, Vol.43, No.3, p.247-251. 9 ref.

CIS 89-581 Kraft G., Riedelbauch H.C.
Controlled hexachloroethane decay during degassing of aluminium melts
Gesteuerte Hexachlorethanzersetzung bei der Entgasung von Aluminiumschmelzen [in German]
During degassing of aluminium melts with hexachloroethane in foundries hexachlorebenzene is formed. The influence of reducing and oxidising conditions on hexachlorobenzene formation during degassing with hexachloroethane was studied in laboratory experiments. Under oxidising conditions 95% less hexachlorobenzene was formed than under reducing conditions and degassing was more effective.
Giesserei, Mar. 1988, Vol.75, No.6, p.152-154. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 89-580 Grandjean P., Anderson O., Nielsen G.D.
Carcinogenicity of occupational nickel exposures: An evaluation of the epidemiological evidence
Survey of recent epidemiological studies of nickel-exposed workers relate to past exposures, mostly of unknown nickel specification. Major studies were carried out at nickel smelters and refineries. The findings indicate that nickel emitted from calcining and sintering operations is a potent carcinogen, causing nasal and pulmonary cancers. Only one study demonstrated an exposure-response relationship, while other studies showed a relationship between increased exposure time and increased cancer risk. In nickel-using industries, no excess cancer related to nickel exposures has been demonstrated beyond doubt. The studies have not excluded the possibility that a cancer hazard may be present outside the nickel-producing facilities. Furthermore, case-referent studies of respiratory cancers suggest that a nickel-related aetiology may well exist in the nickel-using industries. As the exact identity of the carcinogenic forms of nickel remains unknown, exposure to all nickel compounds should be kept as low as is reasonably achievable.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 1988, Vol.13, No.2, p.193-209. 64 ref.

CIS 88-1830 Aluminium: Effects on the environment
Instruction manual based on material developed by a Swedish labour union organisation and aimed at workers. This version is adapted to circumstances in Malaysia, but it is easily adaptable to any English-speaking country. Contents: effects of aluminium production on the environment; the manufacturing process and the working environment; the external environment (dust elimination); preventive maintenance; heat, thermal radiation and exposure to cold.
International Metalworkers' Federation, 54 bis, rte des Acacias, C.P. 563, 1227 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1988. 21p. Illus.

1987

CIS 91-152 Gilson J.C.
A review of non-malignant respiratory disorders in primary aluminium smelters
Exposure to pollution in potrooms, and to a lesser extent elsewhere in aluminium smelters, has been reported to cause occupational type asthma and chronic obstructive lung disease. The incidence of occupational asthma has in general been low, and appears to be related to technical differences in smelters. Suspected agents causing asthma and altered lung function include inert dusts, sulfur dioxide, fluorides and possibly trace elements. Cigarette smoking is an important additive factor. Less extensive information is available on the risk of chronic obstructive lung disease, but studies suggest there has been a risk. Pneumoconiosis has been detected at very low prevalence in potroom workers, but the risk is minimal.
International Primary Aluminium Institute, 9th Floor, New Zealand House, Haymarket, London SW1Y 4TE, United Kingdom, July 1987. 38p. Illus. 68 ref.

CIS 90-1539 Izmerov N.F.
Guide to occupational hygiene
Rukovodstvo po gigiene truda [in Russian]
Second of 2 volumes addressed to industrial physicians, specialists in occupational medicine, plant physicians and other medical personnel. Vol.2 is arranged in 16 chapters devoted to occupational hygiene problems in the following industries: mining; coal-mining (opencast and underground); iron and steel (sintering and iron-ore pellet plants, cakes and by-products, blast-furnace processes, steelmaking, ferroalloy smelting processes etc.); non-ferrous metals (manufacturing of alumina, aluminium, copper, lead, mercury, zinc etc.); machinery (foundry, press forging, heat-treating, machine shops etc.); electronics; chemicals; oil and gas extraction and refining; microbiology; synthetic polymers (plastics, man-made fibers, synthetic rubber, rubber products); construction and building materials; asbestos processing; textiles and light industry (textile, clothing, leather goods, shoe making); wood, pulp and paper, woodworking; printing; work with ionising radiation (nuclear power plants, radioactive sources, x-ray equipment, particle accelerators, etc.).
Izdatel'stvo "Medicina", Petroverigskij per. 6/8, 101000 Moskva, USSR, 1987. Vol.2, 446p. 58 ref. Price: SUR 1.90.

CIS 89-2016 Zanettini R., Agostoni O., Villa A., Molteni G., Cesana G.C.
Ambulatory electrocardiographic findings and urinary excretion of catecholamines in chromite smelting workers
Rilievi di elettrocardiografia dinamica ed escrezione urinaria di catecolamine in addetti alla fusione di ferro-cromo [in Italian]
The aim of the study was to assess the behaviour of some of the most commonly used indicators of "work stress" in chromite smelting furnace workers, in view of the particular conditions of heat stress and muscular effort to which these workers are exposed during casting operations. A comparison was made of the data obtained by calculation of actual sweating, WBGT, ambulatory electrocardiogram and measurement of urinary catecholamines. The results, especially the ambulatory electrocardiographic data, reveal that the investigated work variables have considerable effects on the cardiovascular system. In a sub-group of subjects employed on the manual control of furnaces, near maximal heart frequencies were recorded during casting opertions. Analysis of the data obtained in both day and night shifts confirmed that these findings can for the most part be attributed to heat stress.
Medicina del lavoro, Mar.-Apr. 1987, Vol.78, No.2, p.129-142. Illus. 24 ref.

CIS 89-1586 Lukašev A.A., Zinger V.Ė.
Prophylaxis of saturnism in lead metallurgy
O profilaktike saturnizma v metallurgii svinca [in Russian]
Animal experiments to study the impact of sulfate ions on poisoning caused by lead and polymetallic mixtures showed their positive effect. Use of sulfate in drinking water for prophylaxis of harmful effects of polymetallic aerosols on workers in lead melting plants is recommended (sulfate ions intake from other sources must be taken into account).
Gigiena truda i professional'nye zabolevanija, Oct. 1987, No.10, p.40-43. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 89-175 Beetz M., Steinecke-Fittkau V.
Industriegewerkschaft Metall für die Bundesrepublik Deutschland
Diseases of occupational origin among women in the metalworking industry - Literature survey
Arbeitsbedingte Erkrankungen von Frauen in der Metallwirtschaft - Eine Literaturübersicht [in German]
Contents of this literature survey: metal production, surface treatment, machine construction; the automobile industry; the aircraft industry; the electronics industry; precision engineering and optical equipment (including watchmaking); jewelry and sport equipment; work on computer terminals and pregnancy. The 4 most commonly occurring health problems are: cancer; allergies; musculoskeletal problems; headaches and eye trouble connected with precision work.
Union-Druckerei, Theodor-Heuss-Allee 90-98, 6000 Frankfurt am Main, Federal Republic of Germany, 1987. 58p. 224 ref. Index. Price: DEM 2.50.

CIS 89-198 Sakaguchi S., Sakaguchi T., Nakamura I., Kudo Y., Kagami M.
Immunological study of beryllium workers
Beririumu sagyōsha ni tsuite no men'ekigakuteki chōsa [in Japanese]
Immunological health surveys of 150 beryllium (Be) workers in a copper-beryllium casting factory were made 10 times during the 5-year period from 1981 to 1985. In a macrophage migration inhibition test using Be as an antigen, 1 out of 22 healthy Be workers had a migration index (MI) below 80% after 24h and had 5 MIs <80% after 48h. The mean MI in Be workers was low as compared with that of the control group. Serum complement titre tended to be lower in Be workers than in the control group. The titre of 3 to 6 subjects was < 30 units/mL in every survey. Although some abnormal levels in serum immunoglobin were found (IgG, and IgE), the mean levels of these Igs were within normal ranges. MI values correlated significantly with the IgE level in Be workers.
Japanese Journal of Industrial Health - Sangyō-Igaku, May 1987, Vol.29, No.3, p.224-230. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 88-1989 Farrell F.J.
Angioedema and urticaria as acute and late phase reactions to zinc fume exposure, with associated metal fume fever-like symptoms
IgE-mediated acute and late phase reactions associated with occupational metal fume exposure are rare compared with the more common metal fume fever. The latter is a common acute industrial disease caused by inhalation of oxides of metals, especially zinc. It is a flu-like illness and is thought to be self-limited. This article describes the first case of an immediate and a late phase reaction (urticaria and angioedema) to zinc fumes, associated with a metal fume fever-like reaction. Hives and angioedema developed immediately and in a delayed fashion in a 34-year-old man after he had welded zinc at his job. There also was an associated metal fume fever-like reaction. The relationship was proved by a challenge test done at home. The patient has been asymptomatic since using complete protective measures whilst welding zinc. Possible immunologic mechanisms are discussed.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 1987, Vol.12, No.3, p.331-337. 25 ref.

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