The HHE Program responded to a request to investigate the risk of respiratory problems from exposures to
diacetyl, butter
flavorings, cheese
flavorings, enzymes, colors, bacterial cultures, and cleaning agents at a
flavorings manufacturing plant. HHE Program investigators measured air concentrations of
flavoring chemicals and dust and evaluated the effectiveness of ventilation systems. Investigators also interviewed workers, measured their lung function, and conducted methacholine challenge testing to identify hyperreactive airways. HHE Program investigators found that air concentrations of
diacetyl in certain areas of the facility were similar to concentrations measured at other plants where workers have developed severe lung disease, likely caused by exposure to
diacetyl and possibly other
flavoring chemicals. Investigators measured high
diacetyl concentrations during tasks involving the manual pouring of
diacetyl or diacetyl-containing starter distillate and during cleaning activities. HHE Program investigators recommended that facility managers provide respiratory protection, protective clothing, eye protection, and gloves for employees who work in areas of potential exposure, and that employees wear personal protective equipment as directed by management. Investigators also recommended that the facility perform baseline spirometry tests and repeat spirometry tests for workers. The final report is available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2007-0327-3083.pdf.