Authors
Bello-D; Woskie-SR; Streicher-RP; Liu-Y; Stowe-M; Eisen-EA; Ellenbecker-MJ; Sparer-J; Youngs-F; Cullen-MR; Redlich-CA
Source
Am J Ind Med 2004 Nov; 46(5):480-491
Abstract
Determination of polyisocyanates is important because they are a major contributor of exposure to the isocyanate functional group in many workplace environments and are capable of inducing sensitization and asthma. However, with multiple different measurement metrics in use, comparison of isocyanate exposure data between studies and development of occupational exposure limits (OELs) for polyisocyanates is difficult. An analysis of existing problems in the measurement and regulation of isocyanates is presented based on the published analytical, toxicological, and regulatory literature, and the authors' own analytical data and experience with isocyanates. This analysis supports a need for standardization of isocyanate measurement metrics and provides a framework for the development of an OEL for polyisocyanates. The total isocyanate group (g NCO/m3) is recommended as the most feasible and practical metric (unit) by which to express polyisocyanate exposures for research, control, and regulatory purposes. The establishment of a comprehensive isocyanate OEL that simplifies the current agent-by-agent approach and expands coverage to polyisocyanates is also recommended.
Keywords
Isocyanates; Occupational-exposure; Work-environment; Sensitization; Bronchial-asthma; Exposure-limits; Exposure-levels; Reproductive-system-disorders; Pulmonary-system-disorders
Contact
Dhimiter Bello, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Work Environment Department, KI 200, One University Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854.
Document Type
Journal Article
Email Address
Dhimiter_Bello@uml.edu
Identifying No.
Grant-Number-R01-OH-003457
Priority Area
Research Tools and Approaches: Exposure Assessment Methods; Disease and Injury: Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Source Name
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
Performing Organization
Yale University, New Haven, CT