Furniture workers
Furniture manufacture
Galvanizers

Garage mechanics

Gas shrinking operators

Gas welders

Gas workers, illumination

Gas station attendants

Gasket makers

Gasoline engine testers

Gelatin bleachers

Gin stand operators,
cotton gin

Ginners

Glass blowers

Glass makers

Glass polishers
Glaze dippers, pottery
Glaze mixers, pottery
Glost-kiln workers
Glue bleachers
Glue makers”,
Glass manufuacture
Gold extractors
Gold refiners
Grain bleachers
Granite cutters
Granite workers
Grinders, cotton mill
Grinding wheel makers
Grindstrone workers
Gun barrel browners
Hair remover makers
Hairdressers
Handpickers, cotton
Hard rock miners
Hatters
Heat treaters
Heat treaters, magnesium
Herbicide makers
Heat resistant
clothing makers

Carbon monoxide

Noise

Arsenic, lead, sulfur dioxide

Lead, carbon monoxide,
nitrogen dioxide, sulfur
dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide

Benzene, carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide, lead

Asbestos

Carbon monoxide

Sulfur dioxide

Cotton dust

Cotton dust

Nitrogen dioxide

Antimony, arsenic, lead, silica,
sulfur dioxide

Lead

Antimony

Silica

Lead

Sulfur dioxide

Benzene

Noise

Arsenic, mercury

Antimony, arsenic, lead

Sulfur dioxide

Silica

Silica

Cotton dust

Silica

Silica

Lead

Arsenic

Benzene

Cotton dust

Silica

Mercury

Nitrogen dioxide

Sulfur dioxide

Arsenic, benzene

Asbestos

227


—secondary respiratory infections that are difficult to
control,

~—rapid breathing,

—repetitive end-inspiratory crackles (crackling sounds
heard in the lower part of the lungs through stethoscope
when employee completes each of a series of inhaled
breaths),

—orthopnea (breathing difficulty in a recumbent position),

—cyanosis (change in skin color to bluish, grayish, slate-
like or dark purple),

—decrease of chest expansion,

—digital clubbing (rounding of the ends, and swelling of
the fingers and/or toes), and

—sequelae (other resultant diseases) including cor
pulmonale (right heart failure), bronchogenic carcin-
oma (lung cancer), stomach or intestinal cancer, or
pleural carcinoma (cancer of the membrane lining the
chest).

Fibrosis results in alveolo-capillary block (impaired ability
of the lungs to transfer oxygen into the blood). This impairment
is often more severe than is indicated by chest X-rays.

Mesothelioma

In cases of mesothelioma, the rare malignancy noted above,
there may be a long latent period, as much as 40 years, between
initial exposure to asbestos and the development of the tumor.

Mesothelioma of the peritoneum (membrane surrounding the
abdominal organs) is usually accompanied by abdominal
swelling and pain that is not concentrated in a particular
area. Signs and symptoms of this type of tumor (which may be
associated with asbestos exposure) include:

—Weight loss,

—obstruction of the bowel, and

—excessive accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity

(ascites) is almost always present.

This malignant tumor of the peritoneum may spread to the
chest cavity.

57


Rafter Sample: A sample of dust taken from a rafter or other
settling place. Representative of but not identical to dust
suspended in air.

Remission: Lessening severity or abatement of symptoms or
signs.

Reticulocytosis: Increase in number of red blood cells contain-
ing a network of granules or filaments in circulating blood.

Reticuloendothelial System: Cells scattered throughout the
body which have the power to ingest bacteria and colloidal
particles.

Rhinitis: Inflammation of the nasal mucosa.

Rhinorrhea: Thin watery discharge from the nose.

Sanguinolent: Containing, or tinged with, blood.

Sarcoidosis: A chronic granulomatous disease of unknown
etiology characterized by the formation of tuberclelike
lesions in the organs such as skin, lymph nodes, lungs, and
bone marrow.

Scalene Node: A particular group of lymph nodes in the neck.

Scotomas: Island-like gaps in the visual fields.

Serum: The watery portion of the blood after coagulation.

Sideroblasts: A ferritin-containing nucleated red blood cor-
puscle in the bone marrow.

Siderocyte: A red blood cell containing iron in a form other
than hematin.

Skin Absorption: Penetration of the unbroken skin by asubstance.
Sputum Cytology: Examination of the sputum cells.
Stomatitis: Inflammation of the mouth.

Striated: Skeletal muscle, consisting of fibers marked by cross-
wise series of streaks.


mercuric sulfide, black

mercuric sulfide, red

mercuric sulfocyanate

mercuric tellurate
mercuric thallium iodide
mercuric tungstate
mercuric cyanamid
mercurous arsenite
mercurous azide
mercurous bromate
mercurous bromide
mercurous carbonate
mercurous chlorate

mercurous chloride

Mmercurous chromate
mercurous fluoride

mercurous fluosilicate

black mercury sulfide, ethiops
mineral

artificial cinnabar, chinese ver-
milion, cinnabar, quicksilver

vermilion, red mercury sulfide,
red mercury sulfurel, vermilion

mercuric sulfocyanide, mer-
cury rhodanide, mercury sul-
focyanate, mercuric thiocy-
anate, mercury thiocyanate

mercury arsenite

mercury bromide

mercury chlorate

calogreen, calomel, calosan,
cyclosan, mercury monochlo-
ride, mercury protochloride,
mild mercury chloride, precitite
blanc, subchloride of mercury

mercury chromate

121


2. Is the medical expert’s specialty directly related to the
type of disease in question (cardiologist for heart
disease, pulmonary specialist for lung disease, etc.)?

3. Does the physician have industrial experience? In what
industries? Does this include experience in diagnosing
the disease in question?

4. What is the expert’s formal training in occupational
medicine?

Exceptions: Although the competent medical person is a
physician, there are some instances when the
physician’s testimony will be supplemented by
testimony from a dentist, anatomist, toxicologist,
occupational health nurse, or industrial hygi-
enist concerning special health issues in their
area of expertise. In such circumstances, these
professionals are considered ‘‘competent experts”
for the purposes of the particular adjudicatory
proceedings. The testimony of such non-physicians
should not be permitted to be substituted for the
medical testimony of a physician. In addition,
the qualifications of such individuals should be
ascertained as is done in qualifying any expert
in any court case.

Industrial Hygienist

According to the American Industrial Hygiene Association, a
professional industrial hygienist is ‘‘a person possessing either
a Baccalaureate Degree in Engineering, Chemistry, or Physics,
or a Baccalaureate Degree in a closely related biological or
physical science from an accredited college or university, who
has, in addition, a minimum of three years of industrial hy-
giene experience. A completed Ph.D or Sc.D. in a related phy-
sical or biological science or an M.D. can be substituted for two
years of the three year requirement.” Further, it is suggested
that all industrial hygienists consulted be professionally certi-
fied by examination of the American Board of Industrial
Hygiene.

The following should be considered when judging an industrial
hygienist’s competence:
1. Is the industrial hygienist certified by the American
Board of Industrial Hygiene or under the direction of a
certified industrial hygienist?

23


higher power and exposure is for longer periods than on coast-
plain farms. Noize levels ranged from 92 dB to 106 dB, occa-
sionally as high as 114 dB.”

Cohen®' reported a study where “hearing levels for heavy
earth-moving equipment operators, paper bag workers, and
airport ramp workers were compared with those of non-noise
exposed groups. Noise encountered ranged from 80-120 dB
(A-weighted sound level). The hearing loss levels of the heavy
earth equipment operators were found to be significantly
higher than the non-noise exposed groups. The paper bag
workers had higher hearing loss levels but not as high as the
earth equipment operators. The airport ramp personnel,
however, had the lowest hearing loss levels, probably due to the"
intremittency of their exposures.

Burns” reported a study of 759 employees in 32 various
industrial factories with noise levels ranging from 78 to 109
dBA. “‘A relationship between noise level, exposure duration
and hearing level was defined with two parameters: audio-
metric frequency and percentage of persons expected to exceed
a specific hearing level. A-weighted sound level was found to be
adequate for estimating hearing level for the industrial noises
measured.”

Stone® reported a study of “3,116 employees of 9 steam electric
generating plants and 2 hydroelectric plants were tested. Noise
levels from assorted equipment ranged from 91 to 127 dBA, the
more intense values associated with coal hoppers, turbine
generators and pumps, and forced draft fans. Prevalence of
hearing impairment (defined by hearing levels averaging more
than 15 dB (reASA 1951) at test frequencies of 0.5, 1, and 2 KHz)
varied from 4.7 percent for the younger workers having less
than two years of service to 31.9 percent for the oldest workers
with 26 years or more experience. Boilermakers, heavy equip-
ment operators, and conveyor car operators as classes had high
incidences of hearing impairment.”

Evidence of Exposure
Measurement Methods
The current basis for evaluating continuous industrial noise

exposures is the A-weighted sound level measurement. The A-
weighted network is one of the several standardized frequency

152


presbycusis tends to start in the 8,000 Hz. frequencies, whereas
hearing loss due to noise is usually in the 4,000 to 6,000 Hz.
range. Recruitment is present in early cases of deafness due to
excessive noise, but not in presbycusis. Recruitment is the
inability to understand speech in the presence of surrounding
noise. The louder the words arespoken, the more difficult itis to
understand them. Noise induced hearing loss usually is
bilateral (exists in both ears).

In cases of occupational hearing loss, any accompanying
hearing loss due to presbycusis is usually accounted for by
allowing a reduction of / decibel (dB) for each year of age over
the age of 40. The decibel (dB) is a unit for measuring
the loudness or intensity of sound. For example, the sound
pressure level (loudness) of conversation is between 60 or 70
dBA, a compressor is in the range of 120 dBA, and a turbojet
engine 160 dBA. Because noise is not one frequency but is
composed of a mixture of many frequencies, the so-called A-
weighted technique is used for measurement of intensity. It is
an average of the intensity of the different frequencies and is
expressed as dBA.

Excessive noise can cause physiological problems other than
hearing loss. It can have an effect on emotions, produce
irritability, increase blood pressure and heart rate, and produce
nausea. These effects on the worker in a noisy environment are
not well defined as an occupational illness, but may have an
affect on the quality and efficiency of the work performed.

Occupations With Potential Exposures to Noise

boiler rooms paper manufacture
chemical products paper products manufacture

manufacture petroleum refining
construction Plastics manufacture
corrugated paper manufacture _ plastic products manufacture
demolition Power plant operators
earth moving equipment printing

operators primary metal processing
electrical equipment quarrying

manufacture rubber manufacture
engine rooms rubber products manufacture
fabricated metal product shipbuilding

manufacture steel making
farm equipment operators stone products industries
food processing (cement mills)

147


DISCLAIMER

Mention of company name or product does not constitute
endorsement by the National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health.

This guide is based upon the reports submitted in accordance
with NIOSH Contract No. 210-75-0075 (J. E. Osterritter, M.D.,
Principal Investigator) and NIOSH Contract No. 210-77-0089
(Barbara M. O’Conner and George Christakis, M.D., authors).

NIOSH Project Officers: Contract No. 210-75-0075
Marilyn Hutchison, M.D.
Stanley Kusnetz, M.S.

NIOSH Project Officer: Contract No. 210-77-0089
Stanley Kusnetz, M.S.

DHEW (NIOSH) Publication No. 79-116


Inorganic Mercury

Introduction

Mercury, a chemically stable element which is liquid at room
temperature, is found everywhere—in rocks, soils, plants,
animals, water, air. Itis found in food in the range of 0.005 milli-
gram to 0.02 milligram daily and is not considered toxic at this
level. However, it is becoming increasingly significant as a
potential hazard in the environment. For industrial and
commercial uses, it is removed from the ore, cinnabar, in re-
duction plants.

Exposure to mercury can be through percutaneous (skin) ab-
sorption, ingestion, or inhalation with the principal source of
poisoning being mercury vapor. Nonoccupational exposure to
mercury has resulted in urinary excretions of 0.5 milligram per
day in urine and 10 milligrams in feces.

Mercurialism may be the result of chronic excessive exposure to
inorganic mercury, and is characterized by 1 or more of the 4
classical signs of poisoning: Gingivitis (inflammation of the
gums), sialorrhea (excessive flow of saliva), tremors (affecting
fingers, eyelids, lips or tongue), and erethism (emotional insta-
bility). Mercury vapor has been reported to cause fibrotic
lesions in the lung. Many of the symptoms associated with
exposure are very general and have no connection whatever
with such exposure: tiredness and drowsiness at work, with in-
somnia, a feeling of weakness, and exhaustion. Because of the
many nonspecific signs and symptoms which can be associated
with mercury, occupational exposure levels at which no effects
are observed have not been established.

Acute intoxication from inhaling mercury vapor in high con-
centrations was common in the past among those who extracted
mercury from its ores; now, it is relatively infrequent. Acute
severe exposures are characterized by metallic taste, nausea,
abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and sometimes
albuminurea (usually a sign of renal impairment).

The latency period for signs of toxicity to be produced can vary
from 1 to 30 years.

117


In addition, the following should be considered:

—Any known exposure to benzene or any other poisunous
substances affecting the blood or blood-forming tissues
(hemotologic toxins),

—ionizing radiation exposures (which also affect the blood-
forming organs), and

—radiomimetic substances (those which imitate radiation
effects).

Signs and Symptoms
Acute Poisoning

Acute benzene intoxification occurs following exposure to
high levels of benzene vapor. Signs and symptoms include:
—Feeling of exaggerated well-being (euphoria),
—excitement,
—exhilaration followed by drowsiness, fatigue, vertigo,
nausea, and headache,
—respiratory irritation and pulmonary edema,
—gastrointestinal irritation, with vomiting and colic,
—localized redness (erythema), blistering of the skin,
petechial hemorrhage (small hemorrhagic spots on
skin),
—insomnia,
—giddiness,
—nervousness,
—paresthesia of hands and feet (numbness, prickling,
tingling),
—staggering gait,
—incoherent speech, and
—flushed face.
Continued exposure can result in unconsciousness and death
from respiratory paralysis. The course of the intoxication may
be enhanced by muscular exertion, emotions, and fear.

The clinical effects of accidental ingestion of benzene include:
—Local irritation of the mucous membranes of the mouth,
throat, esophagus, and stomach, and
—bronchitis, pneumonia, and collapse may ensue.

Ingestion of benzene results in blood absorption and may
proceed to systemic intoxication.

66


Petrochemical workers
Petroleum refinery workers
Pewter workers

Petroleum refinery workers
Petroleum refining
Pharmaceutical workers

Phenol makers
Phosphor makers
Phosphoric acid makers
Photoengravers
Photographers
Photographic chemical
makers
Photography workers
Phthalic acid makers
Physicians
Pickers, cotton mill
Picklers
Picric acid makers
Pigment makers
Pipefitters
Plasma torch operators
Plastic cast bronzers
Plastic workers
Plumbers
Plastic manufacture
Plastic products
manufacture
Plastic foam makers
Plasticizer workers
Plastic workers
Plastic makers
Policemen
Polish makers
Polishing soap makers
Pottery decorators
Pottery glaze dippers
Pottery glaze mixers
Pottery workers

Pouncers, felt hat

Benzene

Arsenic, benzene, sulfur dioxide
Antimony, lead

Benzene

Noise

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
mercury, nitrogen dioxide,
silica, sulfur dioxide
Benzene

Antimony

Nitrogen dioxide

Mercury, nitrogen dioxide
Mercury

Benzene

Lead :
Nitrogen dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Cotton dust
Nitrogen dioxide
Benzene
Antimony, arsenic
Lead, nitrogen dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Antimony
Arsenic, lead
Arsenic, lead
Noise

Noise

Tol. diisocyanate

Tol. diisocyanate
Arsenic

Asbestos

Lead, carbon monoxide
Benzene

Silica

Benzene

Lead

Lead

Antimony, lead, silica, sulfur
dioxide

Silica

232


If baseline and/or periodic audiometric examinations were
conducted by the emloyer, these test results should be obtained
for comparison with present audiometric test results.

In addition, the following should be considered:

The audiometric (pure tone) examination is one of the best
clinical means of measuring hearing loss, although other
examinations as referred to above should also be completed.
The audiometric examination should be administered only by
trained, competent personnel, and the test results interpreted
by a competent otologist or audiologist.

The frequencies monitored by audiometry should cover the
range of 250 Hz through 8,000 Hz. Factors which may alter
audiometric test results include the following:

—Faulty or maladjusted equipment,

—inaccurate or misunderstood instructions from the test

operator,

—wax in the ears,

—head cold or allergy, and

—exposure to intense noise 18 hours or less prior to the test.

Epidemiology

The sources of hearing loss and other auditory damage are
well documented in the scientific literature, and many studies
have shown the levels and durations of noise that are liable to
cause such effects.

The following reports of dose-response relationships are taken
from NIOSH*. NIOSH summarized audiometric surveys
carried out between 1960-1970 in the United States and other
countries. The following sections in quotes are all from NIOSH:

Coles and Knight* reported a study of workers in diesel-engine
testing. “Maximum noise level 116 dB. Of six men who worked
continuously in the intense noise of the two-stroke test-house
(average period 3! years) all had losses of 45-60 dB in one or
both ears at 3.4 and 6 KHz, and none could be accounted for by
an aging factor.”

150


Many of the reports dealing with carbon monoxide (CO)
toxicity are in terms of carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) percentage
in blood. The percent of COHb depends on many factors in-
cluding CO concentrations in air, total time of exposure to
various air concentrations of CO, diffusion rate of CO through
the lungs, ventilation rate, type of activity being done, meta-
bolic rate, barometric pressure, and temperature. NIOSH®
recommends an allowable level for CO of 35 ppm based on an
S-hour time-weighted average exposure so that COHb percent
does not-exceed five. The current allowable limit of 50 ppm CO
based on an eight-hour time-weighted average exposure is de-
signed to maintain COHb less than 10%.

SYMPTOMS CAUSED BY VARIOUS AMOUNTS OF
CARBON MONOXIDE HEMOGLOBIN IN THE BLOOD=

BLOOD SATURA-
TION % COHb SYMPTOMS
0-10 No symptoms.
10-20 Tightness across forehead, possible

slight headache, dilation of cutaneous
blood vessels.

20-40 Headache and throbbing in temples.
Severe headache, weakness, dizziness,
dimness of vision, nausea, vomiting,
collapse.

40-50 Same as previous item with more
possibility of collapse and syncope.
Increased respiration and pulse.

50-60 Syncope, increased respiration and
pulse, coma with intermittent
convulsions and Cheyne - Stokes
respiration.

60-70 Coma with intermittent convulsions.
Depressed heart action and respiration
and possible death.

70-80 Weak pulse and slow respiration,
respiratory failure and death.

77


12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

Emphasis on signs or symptoms of unacceptable mercury
absorption such as loss of weight, sleeplessness, tremors,
personality change or other evidence of CNS involvement.

Occurrence of headache, dizziness, fatigue, pain in the
limbs and irritation of the skin and eyes.

Respiratory symptoms, i.e., breathlessness, cough,
sputum production, wheezing and tightness in the chest.
Smoking history.

Headaches, nausea,or G.I. disturbance, dizziness, alcohol
comsumption. Particular attention to eye mucous
membrane or skin irritation.

Preexisting disorders of the skin, respiratory tract, liver,
and kidneys.

‘yr U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1979-658-359


(1) potential for skin contact

—was the operation a “closed system”?

—was personal protective clothing used?

—was the proper type of clothing supplied?

—was it used properly? laundered properly?

—were change rooms available? protective skin
creams? emergency washing facilities?

potential for ingestion

—was smoking permitted in the work area?

—were smoking materials permitted in the work
area?

—was eating permitted in the work area?

—was food stored or prepared in the work area?

—were there separate facilities for storing food
and eating?

—were proper washing facilities available?

(2

Exposure Evaluation

The best evidence to confirm the exposure of a worker to an
agent is measurements (such as air samples, noise levels, or
radiation measurements) obtained at the worker’s actual job
stations, past and present. Factors which should be considered
when evaluating the measurements are:

1. Number of samples (or duration of time covered by
samples). In most cases, a few (two or three) samples
covering only a small portion of a working day are not
sufficient to establish degree of exposure. Generally,
samples or measurements should be obtained covering
most of a complete working day; covering several non-
consecutive work days is even better. For very short
duration samples or readings (less than 15 min.), a
minimum of seven samples, spaced randomly over the
workday, is advised.

2. Location of samples.

The best location for sample taking is in the breathing
zone (within a few inches of nose and mouth) of the
employee or a worker doing an identical job, under
conditions identical to those under which the employee
worked. Samples obtained at a stationary point in the
work environment (area samples) can give an indication
of possible exposure but can also be very misleading.
For example, measuring noise levels a few inches from a

13


Heat treaters

Hide preservers

Histology technicians
Hydrochloric acid workers
Ice makers

Illuminating gas workers
Ink makers

Insecticide makers

Insecticide users

Insulators

Insulators, wire

Investment casting
workers

Incandescent lamp makers

Inert filter media workers

Insulation workers

Iron workers

Troning board cover
makers

Isocyanate resin workers

Japan makers

Japanners

Jet fue] makers

Jewelers

Jewelry makers

Junk metal refiners

Jute workers

Kiln liners

Kraft recovery furnace
workers

Labelers, paint can

Laboratory workers,
chemical

Lacquer makers

Lake color makers

Lamp makers, fluorescent
Lamp makers, mercury arc
Laboratory hood installers
Lacquer workers

Laggers

Laundry workers

Carbon monoxide

Arsenic

Benzene, mercury

Benzene

Arsenic, sulfur dioxide
Arsenic

Arsenic, benzene, lead, mercury
Anitmony, arsenic, benzene,
lead, mercury, silica,

sulfur dioxide

Lead

Silica

Antimony

Mercury

Lead

Asbestos

Asbestos, Tol. Diisocyanate
Carbon monoxide
Asbestos

Tol. diisocyanate
Arsenic, lead

Arsenic, lead

Nitrogen dioxide
Arsenic, lead, mercury, silica
Arsenic, lead, mercury,
nitrogen dioxide, silica
Lead

Silica

Silica

Carbon monoxide

Lead

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
lead, mercury, nitrogen
dioxide, silica, sulfur dioxide
Benzene, lead, nitrogen dioxide
Antimony

Mercury

Mercury

Asbestos

Tol. diisocyanate

Asbestos

Carbon monoxide

228


Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Radford, E. P. 1976. Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 271:228.

Sax, N. I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Second Coke Worker Conference. 1975. Studies of Coke Plant
Workers.

Cotton Dust

Barnes, L; and Simpson, G. R. 1976. J. Occup. Med. 18:551.
Bouhuys, A.; et al. 1970. Arch. Environ. health. 21:475.
Bouhuys, A. 1971. Arch. Environ. Health. 23:405.
Cavagna, G.; et al. 1969. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 26:314.

Daum, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1973. Work is Dangerous to
Your Health. New York: Random House.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Key, M. M; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases—A Guide
@ Their Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
ffice.

Martin, C. F.; and Higgins, J. E. 1976. J. Occup. Med. 18:455.
Merchant, J. A.; et al. 1972. Ann. Int. Med. 76:423.

Morgan, W. K. C.; and Seaton, A. 1975. Occupational Lung
Diseases. Philadelphia: W. B. Sounder’s Company.

Musk, A. W.; et al, 1977. Am. Rev. Respir. Dis. 115:769.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, 50 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Sax, N. I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

195



—motor and sensory deficits such as:
~-Unsteady walk, may be spastic,
--ataxia in severe cases, may affect both arms and legs,
—hyperactive tendgh reflexes,
-toes extend when foot is stimulated (plantar extensor

Tesponse),
--numbness, prickling, and tingling sensations
(paresthesias),

-severe nerve pain (neuralgia),

-decreased sensitivity to taste and smell,

-postural sensation loss (loss of position sense), and
~muscle pain and cramps.

Signs and symptoms associated with the eye are:
—Conatriction of visual fields, seen in severe cases,
—fine punctate opacities in lens (mercuria lentis),
—defects in accommodation and eye muscular balance,
—lens reflex; slit-lamp examination reveals brownish
colored lusterless reflex from the anterior capsule of the
lens. This may be due to mercury deposits in the anterior
capsule and may depend on the duration of exposure;
visual clarity is not affected.

—continuous involuntary movement of the eyeball in any
direction (nystagmus),

—eye muscle paralysis (paralysis of external rectus),

—dimness of vision (amblyopia), and

—blind spots or areas in the field of vision (acotomas).

Ear symptoms are:
—Possible loss of hearing,
—vertigo, and
—hypo-excitability of vestibular function (middle ear
insensitivity).

Skin symptoms are:
—A pallor that is unassociated with anemia and
—allergic hypersensitivity may occur.

126


NIOSH concludes that the results of the epidemiological
surveys on mercury exposure “demonstrate that the higher the
concentrations of mercury in air the greater the likelihood that
an exposed worker will develop signs or symptoms of mercury
intoxication although it cannot be assured that toxicity will
develop at high exposure levels.”

Evidence of Exposure

Air Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses adsorption
on a two section tube containing silvered Chromosorb P in one
section and carbosieve B in the other section. In addition, the
suspect air is screened with a portable mercury meter or
detector to determine the airborne mercury concentration. The
direct-reading instrument determines the length of time that
the air is sampled with the adsorption tube. Five methods
previously used are:

1. Mercury vapor meters or detectors,
2. gold chloride on silica gel,

3. selenium sulfide coated paper,

4. impingement, and

5. length of stain detector tubes.

The NIOSH approved analysis method uses cold vapor atomic
absorption. Six analysis methods previously used are:

. Visual reading of length of stain detector tubes,
direct-reading meters or detection instruments,

. visual color determination of gold chloride on silica gel,
|. visual color determination of selenium sulfide coated
paper,

. dithizone colorimetric method, and

. Barnes method.

Qn AWE

These methods are not intended to be exclusive but other
methods should be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits
Standards adopted by the Occupational Safety and Health

Administration (OSHA) limit mercury (inorganic) exposure to
0.1 milligram of mercury per cubic meter of air as a ceiling

132


Histological: Pertaining to the study of the microscopic
structure of animal and plant tissue.

Hydrocephalus: Increased accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid
within the ventricles of the brain.

Hyperaminoaciduria: An abnormal amount of amino acids in
the urine.

Hyperemia: Congestion from an unusual] amount blood.
Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating.
Hyperkeratosis: Overgrowth of the horny layer of the skin.

Hyperpigmentation: Development of increased skin pimen-
tation.

Hyperplastic: Excessive proliferation of cells.

Hyperuricemia: Abnormal amount of uric acid in the blood.

Hypochromic Normocytic: A condition of the blood in which
the red blood cells have a reduced hemoglobin content, but
are normal in size.

Hypoplasia: Reduced development of tissue.

Hypoplastic: Reduced or defective production of cells.

Industrial Hygiene: The science that deals with therecognition,
evaluation, and contro] of potential health hazards in the
industrial environment.

Inflammation: The reaction of body tissue to injury.

Inorganic: Term used to designate compounds that are not
derived from hydrocarbons.

Insidious: Working or spreading harmfully without symptoms.
Interstitial: Pertaining to the small spaces between cells.

Intravenous Pyelogram: A roentgenogram of the kidney,
ureter, and pelvis.


Co
45

46.
47.

ke Oven Emissions

. NIOSH. 1973. Criteria for a Recommended Standard-
Occupational Exposure to Coke Oven Emissions.
(Publication No. HSM-11016). NIOSH: Cincinnati.

Doll, R. 1952. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 9:180.

Lloyd, J. W. 1971. J. Occup. Med. 13:53.

48. Redmond, C. K.; et al. 1972. J. Occup. Med.

49.
50.

Co

51.
52.

53.
54.

55.
56.

14-621.

Henry, S. A.; et al. 1931. J. Hyg. 31:126.

Final Occupational Safety and Health Standard for
Exposure to Coke Oven Emissions, Part III. October 22,
1976. Federal Register.

tton Dust

Martin, C. F.; and Higgins, J. E. 1976. J. Occup. Med.
18:455.

Shilling, R. S. F.; et al. 1955. Brit. J. Industr. Med.
12:217.

Shilling, R. S. F. 1956. Lancet. 2:261.

Zuskin, E.; et al. 1969. Arch. Environ. Health.
19:666.

Schrag, P. E.; and Gullett, A. D. 1970. Am. Rev. Resp.
Disease. 101:497.

Molyneux, M. K. B.; and Tombleson, J. B. L. 1970.
Brit, J. Industr. Med. 27:225.

57. Imbus, H. R.; and Suh, M. W. 1973. Arch.

58.

Environ. Health. 26:183.
Merchant, J. A.; et al. 1972. Ann. Int. Med.
76:423.

Inorganic Lead

59.
60.

61.
62.
63.

64.

. Feldman, R. G.; et al. 1977. Lancet. 1:89. Published
Communication.

. NIOSH. 1972. Criterta for a Recommended Standard -

Occupational Exposure to Inorganic Lead. Cincinnati:

NIOSH.

Elkins, H. D. 1959. The Chemistry of Industrial Toxi-

cology. 2nd ed. New York: John Wiley.

Dreeson, W. C.; et al. 1941. Public Health Bulletin 262.

Washington: GPO.

National Academy of Sciences, Division of Medical

Sciences, Committee on Biological Effects of Atmospheric

Pollutants. 1971. Airborne Lead in Perspective.

Tola, S.; and Nordman, C. H. 1977. Environ. Res. 13:250.

187


Conclusion

It is difficult to attribute observed symptoms specifically to
sulfur dioxide exposure since it is frequently associated with
other atmospheric contaminants in industry.

Diagnosis of occupational disease due to sulfur dioxide
exposure rests on meeting the following composite pictures:

e

. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to sulfur
dioxide,

. clinical findings comparable to those outlined above,

. lung function test results indicating lung impairment,
and

. increased urinary sulfate ion concentration is not
diagnostic but may indicate degree of exposure.

= wh

176


as other practices will be triggered. Benzene has been classed
as a suspect leukemogen by OSHA. NIOSH has identified
benzene as a confirmed occupational carcinogen for blood-
forming tissue and a suspect carcinogenic agent for lymphatic
tissue (Key et al., eds., 1977). NOTE: This standard is
currently being litigated in the U.S. Court of Appeals for
the, 5th Circuit. (American Petroleum Institute et al. vs.
SHA.)

Conclusion

Diagnostic criteria for chronic occupational benzene
poisoning is based on meeting the following:
1. Confirmed history of occupational] benzene exposure,
2. clinical signs and symptoms consistent with benzene
poisoning, and
3. findings from blood studies consistent with aplastic
anemia and/or leukopenia and/or thrombocytopenia
and/or leukemia.

It is possible to have the signs and symptoms of chronic
benzene poisoning with a normal blood picture.

Post-mortem findings in acute benzene poisoning via
inhalation include extensive petechial hemorrhages in the
brain, pleurae (lining of the chest cage and lungs), pericardium,
urinary tract, mucous membranes, and skin.

Urine, phenol, and sulfate levels are not diagnostic by them-
selves but are indicative of excessive exposure to benzene.

72


Otologist: A physician who has specialized in surgery and
diseases of the ear.

Ototoxic: Drugs which can affect hearing acuity.

Palpitation: Abnormal rhythm of the heart of which a person is
acutely aware.

Pancytopenia: A reduction in all cellular elements of the blood.
Papillomas: Benign epithelial or endothelial tumors.

Paresthesia: Abnormal sensation such as numbness, prickling,
or tingling. .

Particulate Matter: A suspension of fine solid or liquid particles
in air, such as dust, fog, fume, mist, smoke, or sprays.

Pathological: Abnormal or diseased.
Percutaneous: Effected through the skin.
Peripheral Neuritis: Inflammation of peripheral nerves.

Peritoneal: Concerning the serous membrane reflected over the
viscera and lining the abdominal cavity.

Pernicious Anemia: Severe form of blood disease marked by
progressive decrease in red blood corpuscles, muscular
weakness, and gastrointestinal and neural disturbances.

Peroneal Nerve: Nerve on the fibular side of the leg.

Phelegm: Thick mucous from the respiratory passages.

Plantar Keratosis: A horny growth on the sole of the foot.

Platelet: A round or oval disc, 2 to 4 micrometers in diamter,
found in the blood of vertebrates, and are concerned with the
clotting of blood.

Pleurisy: Inflammation of the lining of the lungs or chest cavity.

Pneumoconiosis: A condition of the respiratory tract due to the
inhalation of dust particles.


Chemical Name

Common Names

antimony pentachloride

antimony pentafluoride
antimony pentaiodide

antimony pentasulfide

antimony pentoxide

antimony potassium
dimethyl cysteino tartrate

antimonic chloride, antimony
perchloride, butter of antimony

antimony fluoride
antimony iodide

antimonic sulfide, antimonial
saffron, antimony red, antimony
persulfide, antimony sulfide,
golden antimony sulfide

antimonic anhydride, antimonic
acid, antimonic oxide, antimony
pentaoxide, stibic anhydride

antimony potassium oxalate potassium-antimony oxalate,

antimony potassium
tartrate

antimony sodium
dimethylcysteino tartrate

antimony sodium gluconate

antimony sodium tartrate

potassium oxalatoantimonate

antimony potassium salt of
tartaric acid, potassium
antimony tartrate, potassium
antimony] tartrate, tartrated
antimony, tartar emetic,
tartarized antimony

antimony gluconate complex
sodium salt, antimonygluconate
sodium, gluconic acid antimony
sodium derivative, sodium
antimony gluconate, sodium
stibogluconate, triostam,
T.S.A.G.

antimony sodium oxide

L-tartrate, Emeto-Na, sodium
antimony] tartrate, stibunal

30


Buhrstone workers Silica

Burnishers Antimony, benzene

Building demolition workers Asbestos

Busdrivers Carbon monoxide

Cable makers Lead

Cable splicers Antimony, lead, carbon
monoxide

Cadmium workers Arsenic

Calibration instrument Mercury

makers

Can makers Benzene

Candle makers Arsenic

Canners Arsenic, lead

Cap loaders, percussion Mercury

Carbolic acid makers Benzene, sulfur dioxide

Carbon brush makers Mercury

Carborundum makers Silica

Carders, cotton mill Cotton dust

Carding machine operators, Cotton dust

cotton mill

Carpet makers Arsenic

Carroters, felt hat Arsenic

Cartridge makers Lead

Cast scrubbers, electroplating Benzene

Casting cleaners, foundry Silica

Cattle dip workers Arsenic

Caustic soda makers Mercury

Carbide makers Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide workers Carbon monoxide

Carders (asbestos) Asbestos

Caulking compound makers Asbestos lead
Caulking compound users Asbestos lead

Celluloid makers Nitrogen dioxide
Cellulose makers Sulfur dioxide
Cement makers Silica

Cement mixers Silica

Ceramic enamel workers Arsenic

Ceramic makers Antimony, arsenic, lead
Ceramic workers Silica, mercury
Cellulose makers Sulfur dioxide
Chemical equipment makers Lead

Chemical glass makers Silica

Chemical synthesis Benzene
Chippers Lead, silica

Chlorinated paraffin makers Lead

222


lead chromate

lead chromate, basic

lead cyanate

lead cyanide

lead dicyanoguanidine
lead diiodide
lead dioxide

lead di-o-phosphate
lead dithionate
lead ferricyanide
lead ferrite

lead ferrocyanide

lead fluoride

lead glance

lead salt of chromic acid, chrome
yellow, cologne yellow, crocoite,
deep chrome, Leipzig yellow,-
lemon chrome, lemon yellow,
midle chrome, pale chrome,
Paris yellow, permanent yellow,
primrose chrome, primrose yel-
low, yellow ultramarine

American vermillion, Austrian
cinnabar, basic lead chromate,
Chinese red, chromate red,
chrome orange, chrome red, C.I.
Pigment red, derby red, lead
chromate oxide, Persian red, red
lead chromate, Victoria red

C.I. 77610, C.1. Pigment Yellow
48

C.I. 77580, lead brown, lead
oxide brown, lead peroxide, lead
superoxide, Plattnerite,
anhydrous plumbic acid

lead difluoride, plumbous
fluoride, lead silicofluoride

galena

101



with abnormal pulmonary function, 1 had definite small
opacities, 1 had very early changes, and 2 had negative chest
X-rays. Three workers with either suspicious or definite chest
X-ray abnormalities had normal pulmonary function. Electro-
cardiograme were obtained from 7 workers (3 had antimony
pneumoconiosis); 6 workers had normal tracings; and 1 showed
a slight bradycardia. Antimony in the urine samples ranged
from 0 to 1.02 milligrams per liter of urine. These low values
correspond to the low solubilities of antimony oxides. In
contrast, Brieger et al. reported that workers exposed to lower
air concentrations of the more soluble antimony trisulfide had
higher urinary levels of antimony.

Renes? published a report on a 5-month study of 69 smelter
workers who were exposed to antimony trioxide; antimony
levels in air ranged from 4.69 to 11.81 milligrams per cubic
meter. (Antimony, arsenic, and caustic soda were present in the
air of the smelter but antimony was the predominating aerial
contaminant.) Six workers showed definite pneumonitis which
cleared after removal from exposure and treatment. The
pathological conditions most frequently diagnosed were
dermatitis and rhinitis, next in frequency were inflammation
of the upper and lower respiratory tract (including pneumo-
nitis), and less than 4% of the cases had conjunctivitis, gastritis,
and septal perforations reported.

McCallum‘** reported a study of 268 process workers. Twenty-
three workers (8.5%) exhibited simple pneumoconiosis changes
(Categories 1-3, I.L.O. International Classification, Geneva
1958), associated defects in lung function were not present.
One furnace worker with antimony pneumoconiosis who had
tetired at age 65 had 0.055 milligram of antimony per liter of
urine 7 months after leaving work and 0.028 milligrams per
liter 4 years after leaving work.

Karajovic et al.? reported a study of 160 men employed at an
antimony smelter for 5 to 12 years. No symptoms were found
which could be related to systemic antimony poisoning but skin
changes and pneumoconiosis were present. Thirty-one out of
62 smelter workers had simple pneumoconiosis. No massive
lesions were observed. In 20 workers of the total studied, 8had
pneumoconiosis, 13 had emphysema, and 9 had chronic
bronchitis.

37



Erythema: Reddening of the skin.
Erythroblasts: Any form of nucleated red corpuscles.
Erythrocyte: the mature red blood corpuscle.

Erythroleukemia: Malignant growth of both red- and white-
blood cell forming tissues.

Erythropoiesis: The formation of red blood corpuscles.

Etiology: The study of the causes of disease.

Euphoria: An exaggerated feeling of well-being.

Exfoliative Dermatitis: Skin disorder characterized by
erythema, the scaling off of dead skin, itching, and loss of
hair.

Fasciculation: Small rapid movements of muscle fibers.

FEV,; Forced expiratory volume in one second; a test of
pulmonary function.

Fibrosing Alvelolitis: Fibrous tissue which replaces normal
lung tissue following inflammation of the alveoli.

Fibrosis: A thickening, associated with growth of fibrous
tissue.

Fibrotic: Abnormal formation of fibrous tissue.
FVC: Forced vital capacity; a test of lung function.

Gangrenous: Death and decomposition of body tissue due to
failure of blood supply, to injury, or to disease.

Gastritis: Inflammation of the lining of the stomach.
Gastrointestinal: Pertaining to the stomach and intestine.

Genitourinary: Pertaining to the genitals, the urinary organs,
and their accessories.

Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums characterized by,
redness, swelling, and tendency to bleed.

248


Bronchiolar: Pertaining to the bronchioles.
Bronchiole: One of the finer subdivisions of the bronchial tree.

Bronchiolitis Fibrosa Obliterans: The closing of the
bronchioles with fibrous tissue due to irritation.

Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes.

Bronchoscope: An instrument used for visual examination of
the interior of a bronchus.

Bronchoscopy: Examination of the bronchi through a
bronchoscope.

Bronchospasm: Spasm of the bronchi or bronchioles.

Cancer: A malignant tumor characterized by proliferation of
abnormal cells (carcinoma or sarcoma).

Caplan’s Syndrome: The appearance of large nodules in the
lung, against the background of simple silicosis.

Carcinogen: Substance which is capable of causing cancer.

Carcinoma: New growth of malignant tumor.

Carcinomatous Lymphangitis: Inflammation of lymphatic
channels or vessels due to cancer.

Cardiomyopathies: Diseases of the heart muscle.

Ceiling Limit: The maximum level of an environmental contam-
inant which should not be exceeded for any period of time.

Chelation: Combining of metallic ions with certain hetero-
cyclic ring structures so that the ion is held by chemical
bonds from each of the participating rings, permitting
elimination from the body.

Chemical Cartridge: The type of absorption unit used with a
respirator for removal of low concentrations of solvent
vapors and certain gases.

Chemosis: Swelling of the mucous membrane of the sclera.

244



NOTE: Because silicosis shares the X-ray appearance of at
least 20 other chest diseases, X-ray findings alone cannot be the
basis of diagnosis. However, most workers’ compensation
insurance acts use X-ray criteria for compensation purposes.

Acute, high exposure can result in death without any X-ray
evidence of silicosis. It should also be noted that nodular
densities can be induced by silica, iron, tin, and barium without
associated fibrosis.

Epidemiology

The relationship between crystalline silica and respiratory
impairment, including silicosis, has been demonstrated in
various epidemiologic studies. The available information
indicates that 1 or more of the following factors may have
important etiologic significance in the development of lung
disease: The particle size of the crystalline silica dust, the
concentration of the free crystalline silica, possible synergistic
action of other -ions present, differences in individual
susceptibility, and the presence of a concomitant infection
(especially tuberculosis). This should be taken into
consideration when interpreting the following studies:

Musk et al.%! reported a 4-year study of 688 granite shed
workers who were exposed to mean silica dust concentrations
less than the threshold limit value of 100 micrograms per cubic
meter for respirable free silica. Excessive average yearly
decrements in pulmonary function were observed: 75 to 84
milliliters per year for forced vital capacity (FVC) and 53 to 67
milliliters per year for 1 second forced expiratory volume
(FEV,). Observed decrements were independent of exposure
group (i.e., cutter, sculptor, polisher, sandblast area worker,
etc.) and could not be accounted for by cigarette smoking. In 528
additional granite shed workers, decrements in ventilatory
capacity were measured for 1, 2, or 3 years and were of the same
order of magnitude.

Prospective studies of lung function in working populations
and in the general population have shown that FEV, and FVC
in healthy men decrease at a rate of less than 40 milliliters per
year after the age of 25 years with a greater rate of decline for
cigarette smokers than for those who have never smoked.
Subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exhibit a
rate of decline of FEV, and FVC of approximately 80 milliliters
per year.*4

162


Occupational exposure to asbestos fibers five um in length or
greater, at quantities averaging more than 2 fibers per cubic
centimeter of air or frequent exposures to more than 10 such
fibers during a 15-minute period of time is evidence of a possible
causal relationship between disease and occupation.

Toxicological
(See References 19-24 Appendix A)

Conclusion

The diagnosis of occupational asbestosis is based on meeting
the following criteria:

1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to asbestos.

2. X-ray findings compatible with those indicating asbes-
tosis according to ILO/UC 1971 “Classification of Radio-
graphs of the Pneumoconioses.”

3. Pulmonary impairment, particularly a decrease in lung
diffusing capacity and an increase in alveolar-arterial
oxygen difference, as demonstrated by lung function tests.

The diagnosis of occupational mesothelioma is based on
meeting the following criteria:
1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to asbestos.
2. Pathological evidence of mesothelioma.

62


(C) Medical Surveillance

At no cost to the employee, a program of medical surveil-
lance shall be established and implemented for employees
considered for assignment to enter regulated areas, and for
authorized employees.

(1) Examinations

(i) Before an employee is assigned to enter a regulated
area, a preassignment physical examination by a
physician shall be provided. The examination
shall include the personal history of the employee,
family and occupational background, including
genetic and environmental factors.

(ii) Authorized employees shall be provided periodic
physical examinations, not less often than annu-
ally, following'the preassignment examination.

(iii) In all physical examinations, the examining
physician shall consider whether there exist
conditions of increased risk, including reduced
immunological competence, those undergoing
treatment with steroids or cytotoxic agents,
Pregnancy and cigarette smoking.

(2) Records

(i) Employers of employees examined pursuant to
this paragraph shall cause to be maintained
complete and accurate records of all such medical
examinations. Records shall be maintained for the
duration of the employee’s employment. Upon
termination of the employee’s employment,
including retirement or death, or in the event that
the employer ceases business without a successor,
records, or notarized true copies thereof, shall be
forwarded by registered mail to the Director.

(ii) Records required by this paragraph shall be
provided upon request to authorized representa-
tives of the Assistant Secretary or the Director; and
upon request of any employee or former employee,
to a physician designated by the employee, or toa
new employer.


APPENDIX B
CASE HISTORIES

This section contains two detailed examples of investigations
of occupational disease claims, illustrating the application of
the decision-making process. To illustrate the types of situations
which may arise, the following brief examples are offered:

1. An obvious occupational disease—

A disease which occurs commonly in the workplace.and a
confirmed history of exposure to an agent causing the
disease. Medical examination, X-ray, and lung function
tests indicate probable silicosis, a disease of the lungs
caused by inhalation of dust containing the mineral silica.
The worker’s past and present job: hard-rock miner.
Evidence is presented showing dust exposures in the mine
in which he works and at his job are in excess of current
standards. There is no question that this is an
occupational disease.

2. An obvious nonoccupation disease—

A disease occurring commonly in the general population
with no occupational agent exposure. Medical
examination and laboratory tests diagnose tuberculosis.
The workers past and present job: filing clerk.
Investigation shows no other cases of tuberculosis in the
office where the worker is employed. This is clearly a
nonoccupational disease.

3. A possible occupational disease and an unknown exposure
A worker has an anemia and is employed as a spray
painter. If the anemia is an aplastic anemia, it could be
caused by exposure to benzene, a solvent that may be
present in some paints. Both the exact type of anemia and
the chemical content of the paints used must be
investigated to make a decision.

To illustrate this type of situation, where decision-making is
more difficult, the following two case histories are offered:

Occupational Disease Case History

Complaint: Malaise, increasing fatigue, and “pins and
needles” sensation in the feet.

201


Noise

Introduction

Occupational hearing loss is a slowly induced deafness
produced by loud sound in the workplace, over a period of time
varying from months to years. Hearing loss may also be
immediate, such as that caused by a sudden, loud explosion.

Exposure to intense noise for an extended period of time causes
hearing loss which is either temporary, permanent, or a
combination. Hearing loss is referred to as temporary thres-
hold shift (TTS) or permanent threshold shift (PTS).

Temporary hearing loss means that the person’s ability to hear
will return to normal when he is absent from the source of the
noise for a period of time. In cases of permanent hearing loss,
there is never a return of hearing to the previous threshold.

Disability from hearing loss results from the decreased ability
to identify spoken words or sentences. Speech is composed of
frequencies between the range of 250 and 3,000 Hertz (Hz).
Hertz is a unit of measurement of the frequency, sometimes
referred to as cycles per second (cps).

The hearing level for speech is a simple arithemetic average of
the hearing levels at frequencies of 500, 1,000, and 2,000 Hz.
(Sataloff, J.; and Michael, P. 1973. Hearing Conversation
Springfield, Illinois: Charles C. Thomas Co.) Healthy young
ears are able to hear sounds through the frequency range from
20 to 20,000 Hz.

Hearing loss from repeated exposure to excessively loud noise
usually occurs in the 4,000 Hz. area. Since this is above the
frequency range of the normal spoken voice, an individual may
suffer a decrease in hearing and not be aware of it.

A person’s ability to hear high frequencies decreases with age
just as his ability to read fine print decreases with age. The
hearing deficiency is called presbycusis. The effects of age on
hearing and vision are not the same for all individuals. This
adds to the problem of determining if a hearing loss is occupa-
tional in origin, or the result of the aging process. However,

146


Occupations with Potential Exposures to Antimony

antimony ore smelters

antimony workers

babbitt metal workers

battery workers, storage

brass founders

britannia metal workers

bronzers

burnishers

flameproofers

foundry workers

glass makers

glaze dippers, pottery

gold refiners

insecticide makers

insulators, wire

lake color makers

lead burners

lead hardeners

lead shot workers

linotypers

match makers

metal bronzers

miners

monotypers

mordanters

organic chemical
synthesizers

paint makers

painters

perfume makers

cable splicers

ceramic makers
compositors

copper refiners

dye makers
electroplaters
explosives makers
fireworks makers
pewter workers
pharmaceutical workers
phosphor makers
pigment makers
plaster cast bronzers
porcelain workers
pottery workers
printers

pyrotechnics workers
rubber makers
semiconductor workers
solder makers
stereotypers

stibnite miners
storage battery workers
textile dryers

textile flameproofers
textile printers

type metal workers
typesetters

vulcanizers

zinc refiners

Medical Evaluation and Differential

Diagnosis

(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be considered:

—Inflammation of several nerves (polyneuritis) due to
other industrial poisons (e.g., lead) or in chronic exces-

sive alcohol intake,

33


feather workers

fuel oil handlers
fumigant makers
fungicide makers
furniture finishers

gas workers, illumination
glue makers

hairdressers

herbicide makers
histology technicians
hydrochloric acid workers
ink makers

insecticide makers
lacquer makers
leather makers
linoleum makers
lithographers
maleic acid makers
millinery workers
mirror silverers
mordanters
welders

window shade makers
wire insulators

Medical Evaluation and Differential

Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be carefully evaluated to determine if
present findings may be associated with a previous disease:

—History of blood disease,

—bleeding abnormalities,

—replacement of bone marrow by fibrous tissue (myelo-
fibrosis),

—kidney disease,

—liver disease,

—serious bacterial, viral, or protozoan infection of the
colon, and

—inflammation of several nerves (polyneuritis) due to
other industrial poisons (e.g., lead) or in chronic
excessive alcohol intake.

Nonoccupational Exposure

Consider also that exposure to benzene may be from a hobby
or home activity. Included are the following:
—Woodworking,
—furniture refinishing,
—paint stripping,
—use of dry cleaners and spot removers, and
—use of gasoline, paint, wax, lacquer, or leather preser-
vatives.

65


65. Sakurai, H.; et al. 1974. Arch. Environ. Health, 29:157.

66. Lancranjan, I.; et al. 1975. Arch. Environ. Health. 30:396.

67. Cooper, W. C.; and Gaffey, W. R. 1975. J. Occup. Med.
17:100.

Inorganic Mercury

68. Miller, J. M.; et al. 1975. AIHA J. 36:725.

69. Shandar, A; and Simson, R. E. 1971. Med. J. Aust.
2:1005.

70. Rentos, P: G.; and Seligman, E. J. 1968. Arch. Environ.
Health. 16:794.

71. Turrian, H.; et al. 1956. Schweiz. Med. Wchenschr.
86:1091. German.

72. NIOSH. 1973. Criteria for a Recommended Standard -
Occupational Exposure to Inorganic Mercury (Publi-
cation No. HSM 73-11024). Cincinnati:NIOSH.

73. McGill, C. M.; et al. 1964. J. Occup. Med. 6:335.

74. Smith, R. G.; et al. 1970. AIHA J. 31:687.

75. Baldi, G.; et al. 1953. Med. Lav. 44:161. Italian.

Nitrogen Dioxide

76. NIOSH. 1976. Criteria for a Recommended Standard -
Occupational Exposure to the Oxides of Nitrogen
(Nitrogen Dioxide and: Nitric Oxide). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

77. Muller, B. 1969. Respiration. 26:249.

78. Kosmider, S.; et al. 1972. Zentralbl Arbeitsmed.
22:362. German.

79. Tse, R. L.; and Bockman, A. A. 1970. JAMA. 212: 1944.

80. Emergency Exposure Limits. 1964. AIHA J. 25:580.

81. Lowry, T.; and Schuman, L. M. 1956. JAMA. 162:153.

Noise

82. NIOSH. 1972. Criteria for a Recommended Standard -
Occupational Exposure to Noise. Cincinnati: NIOSH.

83. Coles and Knight. 1960. Ann. Occ. Hyg. 2:267.

84. Yaffe and Jones. 1961. U: S. Public Health Service
Publication 850. Washington: GPO.

85. Schneider et al. 1961. AIHA J. 22:245.

86. Brohm and Zlamal. 1962. Cas. Lek. Ces. 101:300.
Czech.

87. Mancini and Stancari. 1962. Rass. Med. Ind. 31:239.
Italian.

188


Carbon Monoxide

NIOSH. 1973. Criteria for a Recommended Standard—
Occupational Exposure to Carbon Monoxide. Cincinnati:
NIOSH.

Gafafer, W. M. 1966. Occupational Diseases~—A Guide to Their
Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing Office.

Breaker, W.; and Mossman, A. L. 1970. Toxic Gases: First Aid
and Medical Treatment. Rutherford: Matheson Gas Products.

Hunter, D. 1969. The Diseases of Occupations. 4th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Arena, J. M. 1970. Poisoning, Toxicology, Symptoms,
Treatment. Springfield: Charles C. Thomas.

Plunkett, E. R. 1966. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing.

Coke Oven Emissions

Daum, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1973. Work is Dangerous to
Your Health. New York: Random House.

English, J. D. 1975. Position of United Steelworkers of

America on Proposed Coke Oven Regulations.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Jackson, J. O.; et al. 1974. AIHA J. 35:276.

Key, M. M.; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases—A Guide
to Their Reconition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
Office.

Lloyd, J. W.; and Ciocco, A. 1969. J. Occup. Med. 11:299.
Mittman, C.; et al. 1974. Am. J. Med. 57:92.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, 8 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. August 7,°1975. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977, Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Patty, F. A. ed. 1963. Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology.
2nd ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

194



lead hydroxide basic lead hydroxide, hydrated
lead oxide, lead hydrate

lead iodate

lead iodide

lead mercaptate

lead molybdolate wulfenite

lead monoiodide

lead monoxide C.I. 77577, C.1. Pigment yellow
46, lead monoxide, lead oxide
yellow, lead protoxide, lead
oxide, litharge, litharge yellow

L-28, massicot, massicotite,
plumbous oxide

lead mono-o-phosphate

lead nitrate lead salt of nitric acid

lead nitrite basic lead nitrite, lead sub-
nitrite

lead ocher massicot

lead orange orange mineral

lead oxalate

lead oxychloride Cassel yellow, laurionite,

matlockite, Mendipite

lead perchlorate lead perchlorate hexahydrate,
lead salt of perchloric acid
hexahydrate

lead p-periodate

lead-m-phosphate

102


with exposure to calcined diatomite containing 15 to 61%
cristobalite. The extent and severity of pneumoconiosis also
appeared to correlate with length of exposure. For all plant
operations, airborne dust concentrations ranged from 1 to 66
mppcf, and the median particle size was 1.1 micrometers.

Evidence of Exposure

Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses mechanical
filtration. Three methods previously used are:

1. Impingement,
2. cascade impactor, and
3. electrostatic precipitator

The NIOSH approved methods for samples analysis are:

1. Gravimetric plus X-ray diffraction,

2. gravimetric plus colorimetric analysis, and

3. gravimetric plus infrared spectrophotometry.
Three methods previously used are:

1. Electron microscopic,

2. exo-electron emission, and

3. differential thermoanalysis.

The above methods are not intended to be exclusive, but other
methods should be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits

Standards adapted by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) have recommended that limita for
dusts containing greater than one percent of silicon dioxide
(SiO,) are to be calculated from the following formula:

© quartz (respirable mass fraction)
(microscopic counting)

165



Medical Evaluation and Differential

Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be considered:

—History of blood disease,

—hemorrhages into the skin or mucous membrane,

—syphilis,

—reddening of the skin,

—scurvy, and

—inflammation of several nerves (polyneuritis) due to
other industrial poisons (e.g., lead) or in chronic
excessive alcohol intake,

Nonoccupational Exposure

Potential nonoccupational sources of mercury include:

—Air pollution (particularly in industrialized areas
burning fossil fuels),

—use of mildew proofing and antifouling paint,

—use of medicinals of mercurical compounds,

—broken home thermometers, barometers using mercury
columns, and

—consumption of fish (ocean fish, swordfish, tuna, cod,
halibut, mackerel) NOTE: Local Environmental Protec-
tion Agency (EPA) standards should be checked to
determine the applicability of this potential source.

Signs and Symptoms
Acute Poisoning

Acute industrial toxicity is rare, and associated signs and
symptoms are:
—Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis),
—salivation,
—loss of teeth,
—gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea),
—kidney failure (toxic nephrosia),
—cardiac function abnormalities, and
—tremor may exist as an isolated finding.

124


Glycosuria: The presence of glucose in the urine.
Hematemesis: Vomiting of blood.
Hematocrit: The volume of red blood cells.

Hematologic Toxins: Poisonous substances affecting the blood
or blood-forming tissues.

Hematology: The study of blood and the blood-forming organs.
Hematuria: Blood in the urine.

Hemoglobin: The red coloring matter of the blood which carries
the oxygen.

Hemolysis: Breakdown of red blood cells with liberation of
hemoglobin.

Hemolytic Anemia: Anemia resulting from the excessive
destruction of red blood cells.

Hemopoietic: Pertaining to the formation of blood in the body.
Hemoptysis: Spitting blood or blood-stained sputum.
Hemorrhage: Profuse bleeding.

Hemosiderosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of
iron containing pigment, from the disintegration of
hemoglobin into the liver and spleen.

Hepatic: Pertaining to the liver.

Hepatic Injury: Damage to the liver.

Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver.

Hepatomegaly: Enlargement of the liver.

Hertz: Unit of frequency of sound.

Hilar Nodes: Nodes on the root of the lungs at level of fourth
and fifth dorsal vertebrae.

249


Chemical Name

Common Names

arsenic trisulfide

arsenious acid, monosodium
salt

arsenious acid, sodium
salt

arsenious acid, potassium salt

arsenopyrite
beta-arsenic

calcium arsenate

copper arsenite

disodium arsenate

arsenic persulfide, arsenic
sulfide, arsenic tersulfide,
arsenic yellow, arsenious sul-
fide, arsenous sulfide,
auripigment, orpiment, ping’s
gold, ping’s yellow, yellow
arsenic sulfide

sodium arsenite, sodium
metaarsenite

sodium salt polymers of
arsenious acid, sodium
orthoarsenite

Fowler’s solution, potassium
arsenite, potassium
metaarsenite

aronarsenousulfide, arsenical
pyrites, mispickel

black arsenic

calcium-o-arsenate, calcium
orthoarsenate, Chip-Cal, Fen
Cal, Kalo, Spracal, tricalcium
ortho-arsenate

acid copper arsenite, arsenious
acid, copper, copper arsenide,
cupric arsenite, Scheele’s green,
Scheele’s mineral, Swedish
green

disodium salt of arsenic acid,
sodium acid arsenate, sodium
arsenate dibasic anhydrous

43


Skin

—Examination under Wood’s light for fluorescence of
residual tar.

Epidemiology

The disease response to coke oven emissions has been shown
to be related to length of employment and exposure level.
Various studies have indicated that coal carbonization workers
have a high risk of developing cancer of the skin, lungs, and
urinary tract. These workers have also demonstrated an
increase in mortality from cancer of the lungs and kidneys.

A causal but unproven relationship has been reported for
carcinoma of the larynx, the nasal sinuses, pancreas, stomach,
and blood-forming organs (leukemia). Evidence of an elevated
risk of nonmalignant diseases such as bronchitis or
emphysema has also been presented.

It has been shown that topside coke oven workers experience a
higher rate for carcinoma of the lung than other coke oven
workers, and nontopside workers have a higher rate for car-
cinoma of the kidney.

The reports of disease response in parenthesis are from

NIOSH:**

Doll*® reported an ‘81% excess of lung cancer deaths
among gas works pensioners (gas retort workers) in compar-
ison with the general population.” Lloyd‘? reported that ‘‘coke
oven workers had an average lung cancer mortality rate of 24
times that predicted by the experience of all steelworkers.”

Lloyd‘? and Redmond et al.‘* reported that “men employed at
the Allegheny County coke ovens for 5 or more years exhibited
a lung cancer rate that was 3.5 times the expected rate.” Also,
men employed full time topside of the coke ovens had a lung
cancer mortality rate which was 9 times the expected rate, for
partial topside it is almost 24 times the expected rate, and for
side oven only it is more than 1% times the expected mortality.
(All of these rates are based on 5 or more years exposure in the
job category.)

85


Personal History

This section of the history should give consideration to:
—Age, sex, marital status, number of children,
—name and location of all places of residence since birth,
—areas visited prior to onset of symptoms,
—alcohol and tobacco use (how much and how long),
—medications or drug use (past and present),
—recreation and hobbies,
—use of chemicals in the home (cleaning agents, aerosols,

etc.), and

—details specific to a suspected causative agent.

Family History

This section of the history should consider, for each of the
worker’s parents, siblings, spouse, and children:
—Age, sex, and health status (if deceased, cause of death),
and
—any chronic or occupational disease in the family or in
persons in the worker's household.

Occupational History

The employee’s complete occupational history, including
military service, is also necessary in determining the origin of
illness. The following factors regarding past and present
occupations should be evaluated:

—Job titles,

—type of work performed (complete listing of actual
duties),

—duration of each type of activity,

—dates of employment and worker's age for each job
activity, °

—geographical and physical location of employment,

—product or service produced,

—condition of personal protective equipment used (if any)
and frequency and duration of periods of use, and

—nature of agents or substances to which worker is or has
been exposed, if known. Include frequency and average


CONTENTS

Preface
Abstract .........
Acknowledgments
Introduction ..........
Chapter I—An Approach to Decision-
Chapter II—Evidence of Disease ..
Chapter III—Epidemiology .......
Chapter IV—Evidence of Exposure .......
Chapter V—Aggravation of Preexisting Condi .
Chapter VI—Validity of Testimony ....... . 21

Chapter VII—Conclusions .. 25
Chapter VIII—Examples of the Meth: 27
Antimony 28
Inorganic Arsenic . 40
Asbestos ....... . 54
Benzene .... 63
Carbon Monoxide . 73
Coke Oven Emissions . 80
Cotton Dust .... 88
Inorganic Lead . 99
Inorganic Mercury 117
Nitrogen Dioxide . . 134
Noise ........... 146
Crystalline Silica . . 155
Sulfur Dioxide .... - 168
Toluene Diisocyanate . V7

Appendix A-1—Epidemiologi: Reference:
Appendix A-2—Bibliography ...
Appendix B—Case Histories ....
Appendix C—Respiratory Questionnaire ..
Appendix D—Occupations and Selected Potential
Exposures
Appendix E—Glossary .
Appendix F—Sample OSHA Regulations. for Mandatory
Physical Examinations and Medical and Biological
Monitoring ....-..-.....0.. 00200. c cece eee eee eee 259



(2) Examinations provided in accordance with thie
paragraph shall be performed at least:

(i) Every 6 months for each employee who has been
employed in vinyl chloride or polyvinyl] chloride
manufacturing for 10 years or longer; and

(ii) Annually for all other employees.

(3) Each employee exposed to an emergency shall be
afforded appropriate medical surveillance.

(4) A statement of each employee’s suitability for
continued exposure to vinyl chloride including use of
protective equipment and respirators, shall be obtained
from the examining physician promptly after any
examination. A copy of the physician's statement shall
be provided each employee.

(5) If any employee’s health would be materially impaired
by continued exposure, such employee shall be
withdrawn from possible contact with vinyl chloride.

(6) Laboratory analyses for all biological specimens
included in medical examinations shall be performed in
laboratories licensed under 42 CFR Part 74.

(7) If the examining physician determines that alternative
medical examinations to those required by paragraph
(B) (1) of this section will provide at least equal
assurance of detecting medical conditions pertinent to
the exposure to vinyl chloride, the employer may accept
such alternative examinations as meeting the require-
ments of paragraph (B) (1) of this section. If the
employer obtains a statement from the examining
physician setting forth the alternative examinations
and the rationale for substitution. This statement shall
be available upon request for examination and copying
to authorized representatives of the Assistant Secretary
and the Director.

262


foundries stone workers

furniture manufacture textile manufacture

glass manufacture transportation equipment
lumbering operators

metal forming trucking

metal machining tunneling

metal working wood products manufacture

mining — open pit
mining — underground
ordinance manufacturing

Medical Evaluation and Differential
Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

In the Medical History, the following should be considered:

1. Any previous history of diseases or injury involving the
auditory nerve, capable of causing hearing loss, either
as a direct result of disease or injury, should be evaluated
to determine if present findings are associated with
previous disease or injury.

2. In cases of possible occupationally induced hearing
loss, it is important to evaluate the claimant's medical
history pertaining specifically to diseases and condi-
tions of the ear and auditory nerve. Included are the
following considerations:

—Previous ear trouble and disease,
—extent of known hearing loss,
—dizziness,

—tinnitus (ringing in the ears),
—treatment with drugs (ototoxic drugs),
—head injury, and

—estimate of subject’s own hearing ability.

In the occupational history, consider also that exposure to
noise may be from a hobby or from home activities. Included
are the following:

—Woodworking,

metal working,

—loud music in any form from any source,

148


Inorganic Arsenic (Except Arsine)

Introduction

Arsenic is found is small amounts in soils and waters and in
foods, particularly seafoods. For industrial and commercial
uses, it is removed from ores during smelting operations as
arsenic trioxide, which is used in the manufacture of most other
arsenic compounds.

Exposure to arsenic can be through ingestion (swallowing
accumulations of dust deposited in the upper respiratory tract),
inhalation, or percutaneous (absorbed through the skin) as
arsenic-can be widely distributed throughout body tissues. It is
also found in hair, nails, urine, and feces. Nonoccupational
exposures to arsenic have resulted in average urinary arsenic
levels of 0.014 to 0.25 milligram of arsenic per liter with the
highest reported levels being attributed to probable seafood
consumption (Dinman, 1960). Therefore, when evaluating
occupational exposure to arsenic, nonoccupational exposure
of the individual must also be carefully examined.

Arsenic is an irritant to the skin and tomucous membranes and
can cause acute and chronic poisoning. Acute arsenic poison-
ing rarely occurs in industry.

The corrosive action of arsenic may cause perforation of the
nasal septum (cartilage separating the nostrils). NOTE: There
can be other causes of perforation.

Chronic arsenic poisoning induces numerous skin manifesta-
tions which include overgrowth of the horny layer of the
epidermis (hyperkeratosis), sensitization, and possibly loss of
hair and nails. In addition, skin cancer may be associated with
chronic arsenic poisoning. These include squamous cell
carcinoma, epithelioma which may arise at sites of keratoses
(most common), basal cell carcinoma, and the chronic precan-
cerous dermatitis referred to as Bowen's disease.

Arsenic may also have a depressant effect on bone marrow

erythropoiesis and myelopoiesis (the process of blood cell
formation),

40


jewelers scouring soap workers

jute workers silica brick workers

kiln liners silicon alloy makers
lithographers silver polishers

Masons slate workers

metal buffers smelters

metal burnishers sodium silicate makers
metal polishers spacecraft workers

miners stone bedrubbers

mortar makers stone cutters

motormen. stone planers

oil purifiers street sweepers

oilstone workers subway construction workers
optical equipment makers tile makers

paint mixers tooth paste makers
polishing soap makers tube mill liners

porcelain workers tumbling barrel workers
pottery workers tunnel construction workers
pouncers, felt hat whetstone workers
pulpstone workers wood filler workers

quarry workers

Medical Evaluation and Differential
Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be considered:
—Other pneumoconioses,
—sarcoidosis (a chronic granulomatous disease),
—tuberculosis,
—fibrosing alveolitis (hardening of lung tissue),
—carcinomatous lymphangitis (spread of cancer via

lymph channels), and

—pulmonary hemosiderosis (iron deposits in lung tissue).

A respiratory questionnaire, such as that in Appendix C, can be
useful in evaluating the extent and importance of respiratory
symptoms.

159


Sherwood" cites the following guidelines for monitoring
benzene exposure using routine assay of phenol in urine:
1. Values over 100 milligrams per liter—significant risk
indicated,
2. values over 30 milligrams per liter—probability of
benzene exposure indicated, and
3. values less than 10 milligrams per liter—no benzene
exposure indicated.

Evidence of Exposure

Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses absorption
on activated charcoal. Four methods previously used are:
1. Absorption in anhydrous methanol,
2. absorption in nitrating solutions,
3. direct collection of whole-air samples, and
4. absorption on silica gel.

The NIOSH approved method for air sample analysis uses gas
chromatography. Two methods previously used are:

1. Colorimetric evaluation, and

2. ultraviolet spectrophotometry.

These methods are not intended to be exclusive but other
methods should be justified.

Various types of direct-reading field instruments are also avail-
able to measure benzene concentrations in air. They include
detector tubes, combustible gas meters, flame ionization
meters, portable gas chromatographs, and portable infrared
analyzers.

Allowable Exposure Limit

The Federal standard for benzene is 1 ppm based on an
8-hour time-weighted average exposure, with 5 ppm as a
maximum peak above the acceptable ceiling for a maximum
duration of 15 minutes. If initial exposure measurements show
that concentrations are below ' of the permissible level, or 0.5
ppm, periodic monitoring will not be required. Above that level,
however, monitoring and routine medical surveillance as well

7


Coke Oven Emissions

Introduction

Coke oven emissions are a complex mixture of particulates,
vapors, and gases that result from the destructive distillation
of bituminous coal in the production of coke. (Coke finds its
major application in the production of steel.)

Coke oven workers have an increased risk of developing cancer
of the lung, urinary tract, and skin. This risk has been shown to
be related to the area of employment (i-e., workers employed at
the top of the oven have the greatest risk followed by part-time
topside and side oven jobs) and the length of employment.
Epidemiologic stuides have also shown that exposure to coke
oven emissions increases the risk of nonmalignant respiratory
diseases such as bronchitis and emphysema. It should be noted
that smoking habits, previous exposure in a dusty industry or
environment, and oven work area have been identified as
significant factors in the development of these diseases. These
factors should be considered when determining whether
nonmalignant diseases are caused wholly or in part by occupa-
tional exposure to coke oven emissions.

Long latency periods of 15 to 25 years from the time of exposure
to the development of carcinoma have been observed.

The following is a list of occupations with potential exposures
to coke oven emissions:

Occupations with Potential Exposures to Coke Oven
Emissions

coke oven door cleaners - luterman
coke oven door machine operators
coke oven heater

coke oven larry car operators

coke oven lidmen-larrymen

coke oven maintenance men

coke oven patcher

coke oven pusher operators

coke oven quench car operators
coke oven tar chaser

80


A GUIDE TO
THE WORK-RELATEDNESS
OF DISEASE

Revised Edition

Stanley Kusnetz, M.S.
Marilyn K. Hutchison, M.D.
Editors

U.S. DEPARTMENT of HEALTH, EDUCATION, and WELFARE

Public Health Service
Center for Disease Contro]
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

January 1979


lead miners

lead pipe makers
lead salt makers
lead shield makers
lead smelters

lead stearate makers
lead workers
leather workers
linoleum makers
linotypers

linseed oil boilers
lithographers
lithotransfer workers
lubricant makers
match makers
metal burners
metal cutters
metal grinders
metal miners
metal polishers
metal refiners
metallizers

mirror silverers
type founders

type setters

rubber reclaimers

scrap metal workers
semiconductor workers
service station attendants
sheet metal workers
shellac makers

ship dismantlers

shoe stainers

shot makers

sign painters

silk weighters

slushers, porcelain enameling
solder makers

solderers

steel engravers
stereotypers

tannery workers
television picture tube makers
temperers

textile processors

tile makers

tin foil makers

tinners

vehicle tunnel attendants
wallpaper printers

vanadium compound makers welders

varnish makers

Medical Evaluation and Differential Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be considered:

—Acute appendicitis,

—chronic gastric or duodenal (first part of the small intes-

tines) ulcer,

—carcinoma of the stomach, and

—pernicious anemia (severe form of blood disease) or
secondary anemia due to hemorrhoids, melena, or
hematemesis.

106


—exposure of sensitized persons to TDI, even at low levels,
can promote a severe asthmatic attack, and may cause
death

In some instances, workers with only minimal respiratory
symptoms or no apparent effects for several weeks at low level
exposure may suddenly develop an acute asthmatic attack.

Acute respiratory effects from TDI exposure are often
completely reversible, but continued exposure of affected
workers to TDI vapor may result in:

—Asthmatic bronchitis,

—broncho-pneumonia, and

—chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and cor pulmonale
(right heart failure).

Laboratory and Clinical Examinations

Additional tests that will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

Lung Function Tests

—there is a decrease in the forced expiratory volume atone
second (FEV)
—forced vital capacity (FVC) is decreased

Chest X-ray—findings are nonspecific. Corresponding
changes will be seen if there is a broncho-pneumonia or
pulmonary edema (excessive fluids in the lungs):

—absolute eosinophil count often is increased

—white blood count may be slightly increased

—lymphocyte transformation test is positive in sensitized
persons

Epidemiology

When considering exposure to TDI, both the primary irritant
effects and sensitization must be considered. There is sufficient
information to conclude that the primary irritant effects of TDI
are dose-related. However, once people are sensitized to TDI,
there appears to be little or no dose-response relationship,!""
and any further exposure may be extremely dangerous. This
should be kept in mind when considering the following data:

180


The following table relating symptoms and exposure data has
been adopted from Turrian et al.”! and NIOSH”:

SYMPTOMS OBSERVED IN 58

MERCURY WORKERS
Air Concentration (milligrams
of mercury per cubic meter)
0.01-0.06 | 0.05-0.23 | 0.3-0.6
INumber of workers 26 15 17
\Average exposure,
years 9.1 16.7 TA
hremor 19% 20% 29%
Erethism 8% 33% 29%
Impaired memory 0% 13% 18%
\Demographia 8% 27% 18%
Gingivitis 42% 40% 35%
[Bad teeth or
dentures 46% 67% 41%

(Turrian et al., 1956, and NIOSH, 1973)

McGill et al.” reported a study of 58 workers in a mercury-cell
chlorine plant where mercury vapor levels ranged between 0.08
and 0.10 milligram of mercury per cubic meter. No signs or
symptoms of poisoning were detected. Urine mercury samples
were usually between 0 and 0.157 milligram of mercury per
liter; blood mercury levels were between 0 and 0.003 milligram
of mercury per liter.

Smith et al.” reported a 1-year study of 567 workers exposed to
mercury in 21 chlor-alkali plants where air concentrations of
vapor ranged from less than 0.01 to 0.27 milligram of mercury
per cubic meter with a mean of 0.065 milligram of mercury per

129


Trade Names

A175

Acticel
Aerogel 200
Aerogel
Aerosil
Aerosil 175
Aerosil 200
Aerosil 300
Aerosil 380
Aerosil A 175
Aerosil A 300
Aerosil BS-50
Aerosil E 300
Aerosil K 7
Aerosil M-300
Aerosil TT 600
Aerosil-Degussa
Amorphous Silica Dust
Aquafil

C.L. 77811

C.I. Pigment White 27
Cab-o-Sil

HK 400
HI-Sil-C
Iatrobeads 6RS8060
KS 160

KS 300

KS 404

Ludox

Ludox HS 40
Manosil VN 3
Milowhite
Min-U-Sil
Minusil 5
Minusil 30
Nalcast P1W
Nalco 1050
Nalfloc
Nalfloc N 1050
Neosil

Neosyl

Nipsil VN 3
OK 412

Cab-o-Sil H-5
Cab-o-Sil L-5
Cab-o-Sil MS-7
Cab-o-Sil M-5
Cabosil N 5
Cabosil ST-1
Carplex

Carplex 30
Carplex 80
Celite

Celite Superfloss
Coloidal Silica
Colloidal Silicon Dioxide
Corasil II
Crystallite A 1
Diatomaceous Silica
Dicalite

Dri-die

Extrusil

Fossil Flour
Gasil

HK 125

Silica (Si0”)
Siliceous Earth
Silicic Anhydride
Silicon Dioxide
Silicon Oxide (SiO?)
Silikil
Silikolloid
Siloxid

Sipur 1500
Snowtex
Snowtex 30
Snowtex N
Snowtex O
Snowtex OL
Snowtex C
Super-Cel
Superfloss
Suprasil

Syton 2X

Syton WL

TK 900

157


ABSTRACT

This guide discusses various factors associated with es-
tablishing the relationship between disease and occupation.
Prepared as an aid to state agencies, physicians, and others
concerned with workers’ compensation for occupational
disease, the publication describes a method for collecting,
organizing, and appraising medical, occupational, and other
evidence with the aim of determining the probable work-
relatedness of a given disease. Illustrative material on fourteen
disease-producing agents is included. The guide also contains
a list of occupations with potential exposure to selected
agents, and other information that may be useful to
those with decision-making responsibility in cases of occupa-
tional disease.

iv


88.
89.
90.
91.
92.

93.

Chadwick. 1963. J. Laryngol. 77:467.

Filin. 1963. Gog. Tr. Prof. Zabol. 7:3. Russian.

Weston. 1963. J. Aus. Inst. Agr. Sci. 29:15.

Cohen et al. 1970. Arch. Env. Health. 20:614.

Burns and Robinson. 1970. Hearing and Noise in
Industry. London: Her Majesty’s Stationery Office.
Stone et al. 1971. AIHA J. 32:123.

Crystalline Silica

94.
95.

96.
97.

98.

99.
100.
101.
102.
103.
104.

Musk, A. W.; et al. 1977. Am. Rev. Respir. Dis. 115:769.
Dreessen, W. C.; et al. 1942. Public Health Bulletin 277.
Washington: GPO.

Flinn, R. H.; et al. 1939. Public Health Bulletin 244.
Washington: GPO.

NIOSH. 1974. Criteria for a Recommended Standard -
Occupational Exposure to Crystalline Silica (HEW
Publication No. 75-120). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

Rajhans, G. S.; and Budlovsky, J. 1972. AIHA J.
33:258.

Keatinge, G. F.; and Potter, N. M. 1949. Brit. J. Industr.
Med. 1:31.

Theriault, G. P.; et al. 1974. Arch. Environ. Health.
28:12.

Theriault, G. P.; et al. 1974. Arch. Evniron. Health.
28:18.

Theriault, G. P.; et al. 1974. Arch. Environ. Health.
28:23.

UICC/Cincinnati classification of the radiographic ap-
pearances of pneumoconioses. 1970. Chest. 58:57.
Cooper, W. C.; and Cralley, L. J. 1958. Public Health
Bulletin 601. Washington: GPO.

Sulfur Dioxide

105.

106.
107.
108.
109.

NIOSH. 1974. Criteria for a Recommended Standard -
Occupational Exposure to Sulfur Dioxide (HEW
Publication No. 74-11). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

Smith, T. J.; et al. 1977. Am. Rev. Respir. Dis. 116:31.
Kehoe, R. A.; et al. 1932. J. Industr. Hyg. 14:159.
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Lee, A. M.; and Fraumeni, J. F. 1969. J. Nat. Cancer
Inst. 42:1045.

189


entities. With very high concentrations animals have
developed a chemical pneumonitis. Paper dust has not been
found to be toxic, and is considered a nuisance dust.

TABLE 2 (a)

ATMOSPHERIC OIL MIST
PARTICULATE CONCENTRATIONS

October 10, 1973
XYZ VARIETY STORES
SOMETOWN, NY

RESULTS AS
SAMPLE TIME MILLIGRAMS PER
NUMBER LOCATION START/ CUBIC METER
STOP OF AIR
OSHA ALLOWABLE LIMIT 5.0
Operator’s Breathing Zone:
1 Jack White — 0500/1000 0.25
performing normal
duties.
2 Jack White — 1000/1200 0.10
performing normal
duties.
3 Jack White — 1200/1400 1.2
performing normal
duties.
4 Jack White — 1400/1600 0.55
performing normal
duties.
Time-Weighted Average Exposure 0.52

209


Nonoccupational Exposure

Lead is so widely used that a careful inquiry into hobbies and
recreation is especially important. Chronic exposure to in-
organic lead in hobbies can produce the same signs and
symptoms as occupational lead poisoning.

Common nonoccupational lead exposure sources include:
—Foods (bread, meat, canned foods and vegetables),
—hobbies (ceramics, pottery),

—consuming illicit liquors distilled using lead or lead-
based tubing, soldered condensers (such as automobile
radiators),

—use of lead-glazed earthenware,

—artists using lead paints,

—lead toys

—lead dust in shooting galleries, and

—fumes from burning batteries or painted furniture.

Signs and Symptoms

The early signs and symptoms of lead poisoning are non-
specific and may resemble many diseases including influenza.
Early signs and symptoms are:

—Malaise, fatigue,

—sleep disturbance,

—constipation,

—abdominal cramps,

—anemia, hemolytic (red blood cells being destroyed) in
type but not usually severe,

—irmitability,

—aching muscles and bones,

—headache,

—decreased appetite, and

—nausea and vomiting.

These symptoms are reversible, and complete recovery is pos-
sible.

In more advanced cases of lead poisoning, the above signs and

symptoms progress and frequently involve the gastrointestinal
and neuromuscular systems (both nerves and muscles).

107



ANTIMONY AND ITS COMPOUNDS
(EXCEPT STIBINE)

Introduction

Antimony is a silvery, lustrous metal or gray lustrous
powder; its chief ore is stibnite. Antimony may cause adverse
health effects through inhalation, ingestion, and skin
absorption. Dust and fumes of antimony and its compounds are
sources of the hazard.

Antimony is frequently encountered as a fine dust in industry
with inhalation being the usual route of entry. Dust may be
ingested by swallowing accumulations which have been
deposited in the upper respiratory tract.

Nonoccupational exposure may occur through ingestion (i.e.,
antimony dissolved from enamel glazed utensils used for
acidic foods and fluids such as lemonade) or inhalation and/or
akin absorbtion (i.e., clothing impregnated with antimony
trioxide for flameproofing). However, exposures are low, except
in industry.

The symptoms of early antimony poisoning are similar to
arsenic (NOTE: See Arsenic Guide), and the two elements are
often encountered together in nature. Antimony compounds
are irritating to the skin and mucous membranes often
resulting in dermatitis, gingivitis, rhinitis, inflammation of
the upper and lower respiratory tracts including pneumonitis,
gastritis, conjunctivitis, and ulceration of the nasal septum
(cartilage separating the nostrils) and larynx. The weakness
and fatigue characteristic of the chronic poisoning may be due
to anemia caused by antimony. Cardiac injury and cases of
sudden death have been reported in persons exposed to
antimony.

Antimony has been found to cause pneumoconiosis in workers
exposed to the ore stibnite. Anitmony may produce changes in
the lung detectable by X-ray; lung function may also be
affected.

28


TABLE 2(c)

ATMOSPHERIC CARBON MONOXIDE CONCENTRATIONS
October 10, 1973

XYZ VARIETY STORES
SOMETOWN, NY

SAMPLE TIME RESULTS AS

NUMBER LOCATION START/STOP PARTS PER
MILLION

OSHA ALLOWABLE LIMIT 50

Operator’s Breathing Zone:

1 Jack White - Paperwork 0810/0817 5
at desk.

2 Jack White - Operating 0842/0849 20
LPG Fueled Lift Truck.

3 Jack White - Loading 0955/1002 10
platform (all docks filled
with trucks).

4 Jack White - Same as 3 1131/1138 5

5 Jack White - Working 1159/1206 5
approx. center of whee.

6 Jack White - Paperwork 1310/1317 <5
at desk.

7 Jack White - Approx. 1418/1425 <b
center of Printing Dept.

8 Jack White - Operating 1430/1437 40
LPG Fueled Lift Truck.

211


of total particulate matter present during the destructive
distillation or carbonization of coal for the production
of coke. The regulated area is the coke oven battery,
including top side, punchside, coke side and their
machinery, the wharf, and screening station. Beehive
ovens have also been established as a regulated area.

Conclusion

Diagnostic criteria for occupational carcinoma due to expo-
sure to coke oven emissions are:
1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to coke
oven emissions and
2. diagnosis of carcinoma as determined by laboratory
evaluation and clinical findings.

NOTE: As carcinoma also occurs in the population which is not
occupationally exposed to coke oven emissions, the decision
whether a claimant’s carcinoma is work related is most
difficult.

Criteria for diagnosing occupational noncancerous conditions
due to exposure to coke oven emissions include the following:
1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to coke
oven emissions and
2. clinical findings of respiratory, genitourinary, or skin
examination as outlined above and medical history.

87


Elkins, H. B. 1959. The Chemistry of Industrial Toxicology.
2nd ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Key, M. M.; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases—A Guide to
Their Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
Office.

Lee, S. D. ed. 1977. Biochemical Effects of Environmental
Pollutants. Ann Harbor: Ann Harbor Science Publishers,
ne.

Magos, L. 1975. Brit. Med. Bull. 31:241.

Nadi, N. A.; and Yassin, A. K. 1974. J. Top. Med. Hyg. 77:128.
NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, 20 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Patty, F. A- ed. 1963. Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. 2nd
ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Sax, N. L. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Schroeder, H. A. 1974. The Poisons Around Us. Bloomington:
Indiana University Press.

Selikoff, I. J. ed. 1971. Environ. Res. 4:1.

Nitrogen Dioxide

Daum, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1973. Work Is Dangerous to
Your Health. New York: Random House.

Dowell, A. R.; et al. 1971. Arch. Intern. Med. 128:74.

Ehrlich, R.; and Henry, M. C. 1968. Arch. Environ. Health.
17:860.

Freeman, G.; et al. 1974. Arch. Environ. Health. 29:203.

197



Skin
—An ulcer that does not heal,
—a small mass on the skin,
—a lesion that bleeds easily or may ooze fluid and form a
scab, and
—pain over the area exposed (the infiltration site).

Signs and Symptoms of Noncancerous
Conditions

Respiratory - Bronchitis, Pulmonary Fibrosis, Chronic
Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Signs and symptoms can include:
—Cough,
—coughing up mucus or phlegm,
—frequent upper respiratory infections,
—shortness of breath, and
—the use of extra-respiratory muscles to assist breathing.

The following grading system has been devised to classify the
degree of bronchitis according to symptomatology:

BRONCHITIS GRADING SYSTEM

GRADE LABEL SYMPTOMS
0 Asymptomatic No positive responses or
only rare respiratory
symptoms
1 Probable acute Cough OR sputum
bronchitis production present occasion-

ally, but for less than 3
months of the year and for
less than 2 years.

2 Acute bronchitis Cough AND sputum with

the same frequency and
duration as in Grade 1

82


Epidemiologic data documenting that groups of workers and
other human populations exposed to a suspected agent have
sustained certain types of illnesses may be extremely helpful in
establishing the fact that the substance in question may cause
an illness of a certain type. Whatever epidemiologic data is
available should be included in the evidence presented.

10


Painter, four years. Exposed to pigments found in paint such as
lead, chromium and arsenic.

Gardener, three years. Exposed to insecticides and weed killers.
Knows that some had pyrethrums, arsenic and parathion-like
substances in them.

Present job, four years. Some of the pigments he mixes contain
nickel, lead, arsenic, iron and other chemicals. He cleans witha
vacuum cleaner, wears no protection and there is some dust.

He has no secondary job.

Clinical Evaluation

The examination revealed a well developed male who
appeared tired. His face was pale and the skin over the trunk
appeared somewhat pigmented. Examination of the head, eyes,
ears and throat showed them to be normal. The nasal septum
was inflamed. No adenopathy. The thyroid was normal. Chest
expanded symmetrically and percussion and auscultation were
normal.

The pulse was 78 and regular, the blood pressure was 128/82.
Heart sounds were normal and no evidence of enlargement.
There was slight tenderness on palpation of the right upper
quadrant but the liver edge was not palpable.

External genitalia was normal. Peripheral circulation was
normal. On examination of the extremities a hyperkeratosis of
the palms of the hands and soles of the feet were found. There
was decreased sensation to touch and vibration in the feet.
Patella and ankle reflexes were decreased; those of the wrist
and elbow were normal.

Laboratory Evaluation

CBC and Differential: RBC 4.0 million/cubic mm
Hb. 12 g/100 ml
Het. 40 percent
WBC 4,000 per cubic mm

Chest X-Ray: 14” x 17” Normal
Electrocardiogram: Normal
SMA-12: Normal

203



average urinary arsenic concentration was 0.23 milligram of
arsenic per liter; average arsenic concentration in hair was 108
parts per million.

Birmingham et al.!7 emphasized that the cutaneous effect of
exposure to arsenic occurs more frequently than the rare
systemic toxicities. Milham and Strong!® reported a study of
smelter workers in which “80% of the workers excreted 1.0 to
3.0 milligrams of arsenic per liter of urine and had dermatitis.
All workers excreting over 3.0 milligrams of arsenic per liter
had dermatitis.”

Evidence of Exposure

Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses mechanical
filtration. Two methods previously used are:
—Impingement and
—electrostatic precipitation.

The NIOSH approved method for air sample analysis uses
atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Four methods previ-
ously used are:

—Gutziet method,

—silver diethyldithiocarbamate method,

—iodine microtitration, and

—molybdenum blue method.

The above methods are not intended to be exclusive but other
methods used should be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits

Arsenic is a confirmed occupational carcinogen with the
target organ/tissue being the lung and skin; it is a suspect
lymphatic tissue carcinogen (Ket et al., eds., 1977).

The standard adopted by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) establishes a permissible exposure
limit of 10 micrograms per cubic meter air. This represents
the lowest level which OSHA believes is feasible. The
existence of a safe level of exposure to inorganic arsenic has

52


in acute gaseous exposures, severe enough to almost be
fatal to the worker, the severe conjunctivitis (inflammation
of the membrane that lines the eyelids and the front
of the eyeball) that occurs resolves completely and leaves
no ocular damage.

The accidental spraying of liquefied sulfur dioxide into the eyes
of workers on refrigeration machines may cause permanent
reduction of visual acuity (sharpness of vision) from its
clouding effect on the cornea. Blindness can result.

Inhaled sulfur dioxide may cause thiamine deficiency-like
symptoms. In women, menstrual disorders may be observed.

The following is a listing of common names for sulfur dioxide
followed by a listing of occupations with potential exposure to
sulfur dioxide:

Common Names

fermenticide liquid
sulfer oxide

sulfur oxide

sulfurous acid anhydride

sulfurous anhydride
sulfurous oxide
sulphur dioxide

Occupations with Potential Exposures to Sulfur Dioxide

alkali-salt makers
automotive workers

lead smelters
magnesium foundry workers

beet sugar bleachers
blast furnace workers
boiler water treaters
bone extractors
brewery workers
brickmakers
broommakers

carbolic acid makers
cellulose makers

coke oven workers
copper smelters

diesel engine operators
diesel engine repairmen
disinfectant makers
disinfectors

meat preservers

mecury smelters

metal refiners

oil bleachers

oil processors

ore amelter workers
organic sulfonate makers
paper makers

petroleum refinery workers
pottery workers
preservative makers
protein makers (edible)
protein makers (industrial)
pyrites burners
refrigeration workers

169


BYSSINOSIS GRADES
Grade | Grade | Grades II' | Total Number!
[Number of Workers Yet r and III‘ of Workers
Carders M (59) 4 6 5 15 (25%)
”
Spinners Figs) | 3 | 0 0 31 8%)
[Total (158) 9 u 7 27 (17%)

(Zuskin et al., 1969)
a - Cough on the first day of the working week or chest tightness sometimes
on the first day of the working week, or both.
b - Chest tightness every first day of the working week, or both.
c - Chest tightness on the first day of the working week and other work days,
d - Chest tightness on all days.

Eight carders from Mill A with a history of byssinosis had an
average FEV, decrease of 0.82 liter. In 6 men in both mills who
had worked for less than 1 year, the reduction of FEV, on the
first working day of the week ranged from 0.09 to 0.43 liter.
FEV, decreased significantly during the work shift on the first
working day of the week for all workers in both mills. The fol-
lowing table from the report summarizes total dust concentra-
tions in all work areas:

DUST CONCENTRATIONS AT DIFFERENT SITES
OF WORK IN MILLS A AND B
(in milligrams per cubic meter)

“Respirable” Total
Work Place N*® Range Mean Range Mean

Mill A Carders 0.76 to 1.05 0.87 1.47 to 1.92 1,63
Spinners 0.80 to 1.07 0.92 1.79 to 2.15 191

we

—_ Cardera | 4 | 0.43 to.054 | 0.50 | 1.29 to 1.70 | 1.55
Mill B spinners| 4 | 0.50 to 0.60 | 0.55 | 1.25-t01.75 | 154

(Zuskin et al., 1969)

“Number of samples in each location.

94



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183


Myocardial: Concerning heart muscle.
Narcotic: Producing stupor or sleep.

Nasal Septum: A partition that divides the nasal cavity into
two passages.

Nasopharyngitis: Inflamed condition of the pharynx directly
behind the nasal cavity and above the soft palate.

Necrotic: Death of a portion of tissue.

Neoplasm: A new and abnormal formation of tissue, as atumor
or growth.

Nephritis: Inflammation in the kidneys.
Nephropathy: Any disease of the kidney.
Neuropathies: Any disease of the nerve.

NIOSH: National Institute for Occupational Saftey and
Health.

Node: A small round or oval mass of lymphiod tissue.
Nodular Ulcers: An open sore in a small aggregation of cells.
Nodule: A amall node.

Nuisance Dust: An innocuous dust.

Nystagmus: Constant involuntary cyclic movement of the
eyeball in any direction.

Opacities: Areas or spots that are not transparent.

Oropharyngeal: Concerning the central portion of the pharynx
lying between the soft palate and upper portion of the
epiglottis.

OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration or
Occupational Safety and Health Act.

253


(4) Termination of employment

The employer shall provide, or make available, within
30 calendar days before or after the termination of
employment of any employee engaged in an occupation
exposed to airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers,
a comprehensive medical examination which shall
include, as a minimum, a chest roentgenogram
(posterior-anterior 14 X 17 inches), a history to elicit
symptomatology of respiratory disease, and pulmonary
function tests to include forced vital capacity (FVC)
and forced expiratory volume for 1 second (FEV)0).

(5) Recent examinations

No medical examination is required of any employee, if
adequate records show that the employee has been
examined in accordance with this paragraph within the
past 1-year period.

(6) Medica] records

(i) Maintenance

Employers of employees examined pursuant to this
paragraph shall cause to be maintained complete
and accurate records of al] such medical exami-
nations. Records shall be retained by employers for
at least 20 years.

(ii) Access

The contents of the records of the medical exami-
nations required by this paragraph shall be made
available, for inspection and copying, to the
Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational
Safety and Health, the Director of NIOSH, to
authorized physicians and medical consultants of
either of them, and, upon the request of an
employee or former employee, to his physician.
Any physician who conducts a medical exami-
nation required by this paragraph shall furnish to
the employer of the examined employee all the
information specifically required by this
paragraph, and any other medical information
Telated to occupational exposure to asbestos fibers.

260


Sulfur Dioxide

Introduction

Sulfur dioxide, a colorless gas at room temperature with a
distinctive, irritating odor, can also exist as a liquid and is
soluble in water and organic solvents. It is produced in the
smelting of sulfide ores and in the processing of sulfur-
containing fuels. In large cities and areas surrounding smelters
and oil refineries, sulfur dioxide is a major contributor to
atmospheric pollution.

Because sulfur dioxide is very soluble, it mainly affects the
upper respiratory tract: nose, throat, trachea (windpipe), and
bronchi. These tissues may swell and block the passage of air.
After acute exposure, the alveoli (air sacs) are also injured, and
pulmonary edema (filling of the Jungs with fluid) can result,
which may be fatal.

The average individual is able to detect 0.3 to 1 part per million
(ppm) mainly by taste, 3 ppm by odor, and 6 ppm by immediate
sharp irritation of the nose and throat. Concentrations of 20
ppm can cause an immediate irritation to the eyes (Daum and
Stellman, 1973).

Severe acute gassing accidents are rare because sulfur dioxide is
so intensely irritating that workers run for their lives to
escape from its effects. Workers in atmospheres fairly
heavily contaminated by sulfur dioxide do acquire a degree of
tolerance.

The long-term effects of low concentrations of sulfur dioxide are
not known, though nasopharyngitis (chronic irritation of the
nose and throat), changes in the senses of taste and smell, and
increased fatigue have been documented. Chronic irritation of
the trachea due to exposure to sulfur dioxide may cause chronic
bronchitis and emphysema.

Eye injury varies according to whether the gaseous or liquid
form of sulfur dioxide is involved. When only the gas is
employed, as in magnesium foundries, ocular reactions are
mild probably due to the warning characteristics of the gas
which enable the worker to avoid excessive exposure. Even

168


Viny]-asbestos tile
installers
Vulcanizers

Wallpaper printers
Warfare gas makers
Water weed controllers
Wax makers
Warehouse workers
Water gas workers
Weavers, cotton mill
Weed sprayers
Welders

Weavers (asbestos)
Whetstone workers
Wicker ware bleachers
Window shade makers
Wine makers

Wire drawers

Wire insulators

Wire coating workers
Wood bleachers

Wood filler workers

Wood preservative workers

Wood pulp bleachers

Wood stainers

Wood products
manufacture

Wood preservers

Wood distillers

Zinc chloride makers

Zinc mill workers

Zinc miners

Zinc refiners

Zinc smelter chargers

Zinc smelters

Zinc white makers

Asbestos

Antimony, benzene, sulfur
dioxide

Arsenic, lead

Arsenic, benzene

Arsenic

Benzene

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide

Cotton dust

Arsenic

Benzene, lead, nitrogen dioxide

Asbestos

Silica

Sulfur dioxide

Benzene

Sulfur dioxide, arsenic

Arsenic

Benzene

Tol. diisocyanate

Sulfur dioxide

Silica

Arsenic, mercury

Sulfur dioxide

Lead

Noise

Arsenic

Carbon monoxide
Arsenic

Lead

Antimony, arsenic, lead
Antimony, arsenic, lead
Lead

Sulfur dioxide, lead
Carbon monoxide

239



Carbon Monoxide

Introduction

Carbon monoxide is a colorless gas produced by incomplete
burning of carbon-containing materials. On inhalation, it acts
as an asphyxiont, causing a decrease in the amount of oxygen
delivered to the body tissues. Carbon monoxide combines with
hemoglobin (the oxygen carrier in the blood) to form carboxy-
hemoglobin, which reduces the oxygen carrying capacity of the
blood. :

The two main sources of carbon monoxide exposure are the
interna! combustion engine and cigarette smoking.

The blood of cigarette smokers contains between 3 and 10
percent carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) depending on the number
of cigarettes smoked and the manner of smoking, inhaling or
not inhaling. During amoking, the individual is being exposed
to the equilvalent of 400-500 parts per million carbon monoxide.
The COHb of non-smokers is approximately 0.5-0.8 percent.
Thus, in evaluating occupational exposure to carbon monoxide,
the smoking habits of the individual must be carefully
evaluated.

An exposure to carbon monoxide is usually sudden and the
symptoms are. acute and rapid in onset. Headache and
dizziness may rapidly progress to unconsciousness depending
on the rate of build-up of COHb in the blood. Once the Person is
removed from the carbon monoxide exposure, the process is
reversible and no permanent damage is known to occur.

Prolonged exposure and unconsciousness may cause brain
damage and result in neurological disturbances.

If chronic carbon monoxide poisoning exists, it is'not a
clearcut, identifiable entity that can be diagnosed. Toxicologic
and..epidemiologic studies have not yielded adequate infor-
mation. to establish any physical impairment from chronic
exposure to carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide is especially serious for persons with chronic
heart or lung disease. The reason for this is that the carbon
monoxide in the blood reduces the amount of oxygen available
to an already damaged heart muscle.

73


Respirator makers

Riveters

Road constructors

Rock crushers

Rock cutters

Rock drillers

Rock grinders

Rock screeners

Rocket fuel makers

Rodenticide makers

Roofers

Rotogravure printers

Roving frame operators,
cotton mill

Roofing materials makers

Rubber buffers

Rubber cementers

Rubber compound mixers

Rubber gasket makers

Rubber makers

Rubber reclaimers

Rubber manufacture

Rubber compounders

Sand cutters

Sand pulverizers

Sandblasters

Sandpaper makers

Sandstone grinders

Sawyers

Sanitation workers

Scouring soap workers

Scrap metal workers

Sealing wax makers

Seed handlers

Semiconductor compound
makers

Semiconductor workers

Service station attendants

Sewer workers

Sheep dip workers

Sheet metal workers

Shellac makers

Ship dismantlers

Shoe factory workers

Shoe finishers

Benzene

Lead

Silica

Silica

Silica

Silica

Silica

Silica
Nitrogen dioxide
Arsenic

Lead, asbestos
Benzene
Cotton dust

Asbestos

Lead

Benzene

Benzene, lead, silica
Benzene

Antimony, benzene, lead
Lead

Noise

Asbestos

Silica

Silica

Silica

Silica

Silica

Silica

Carbon monoxide
Silica

Antimony, lead
Arsenic

Mercury

Antimony, arsenic, lead

Antimony, lead
Lead, benzene
Carbon monoxide
Arsenic

Lead

Benzene, lead
Lead

Benzene

Benzene

235


29. Byssinosis?

30. Other chest troubles? — SES ___

31. Have you ever smoked? ——__ SE Ss _s
(Record ‘NO’ if subject has never
smoked as much as one cigarette a
day, or 1 oz. tobacco a month, for as
long as one year)

32. Age when stopped ___ years. Was
this in the last month? —
If ‘YES’ to 31 and 32, fill in figures

below:
AMOUNT SMOKED
BEFORE
NOW —_____ STOPPING
Cigarettes/day
(Average including weekends) ___ __

Oz. tobacco/week (handrolled)___ —
Cigars/week (large) — —
Cigars/week (small) — —_
Occupation (1st Interview Only)

(Record on lines the years in which subject has worked in any
of these inusynes e-g., 1960-1963)

YES NO

33. Have you ever worked in a dusty
job?

34. In a coal mine

35. In any other mine? —--- ES

216


—diseases of the heart muscles caused by toxins (toxic
cardiomyopathies),

—diseases of the stomach,

—rashes due to food and drug sensitivity (urticaria), and

—jaundice due to phosphorus or arsenic poisoning

Signs and Symptoms
Acute Poisoning

Acute poisoning from antimony seldom occurs as an occupa-
tional exposure. Signs and symptoms of acute antimony
poisoning are chiefly gastrointestinal and include:

—Violent vomiting,

—continuous diarrhea with mucus,

—hepatitis,

—kidney involvement with blood in the urine (hemoturia),

—shock may be associated with slow, irregular respiration
and a subnormal temperature, and

—death may occur in several hours.

Chronic Poisoning

Chronic antimony poisoning can result from the inhalation of
dusts or fumes, by ingestion, or by skin absorption. General
complaints are:

—Irritability,

—fatigue,

—numbness and tingling (neuritis),

—muscular aches,

—loss of appetite (anorexia),

—gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or constipa-
tion,

—headache,

—dizziness, and

—chest pain.

Respiratory symptoms are:
—Inflammation of the larynx (laryngitis),
—inflammation of the trachea (tracheitis),

—cough, and
—difficulty in breathing (dyspnea).

34


Signs and Symptoms

The reactions encountered with inhalation of TDI vapor are:

1. Primary irritation to which all exposed persons are
susceptible to some degree and

2. sensitization reaction, which occurs at much lower
exposures in persons who have become sensitized toTDI
during earlier exposure.

Primary Irritation
Inhaled toluene diisocyanate vapor causes:

—Burning of eyes, nose, and throat,

—dry, sore throat,

—choking sensation,

—nasal congestion,

—paroxysmal cough (cough which may occur in
sudden, periodic attacks), and

—chest pain may occur.

If the TDI vapor concentration is high enough, the effects may
progress to a chemical bronchitis with the following:

—Severe bronchospasm,
—feeling of tightness in chest, and
—trales and rhonchi.

This high dose-response may follow a clinical course similar to
that of broncho-pneumonia from bacterial infection. In
addition, the following may occur:

—Pulmonary edema (excess fluid in the lungs),

—headache,

—insomnia, and

—neurological and psychiatric symptoms.

Sensitization Reaction

—onset (usually without realization) of respiratory
problems which become progressively worse with
continuous exposure to TDI

—shortness of breath occurring at night (nocturnal
dyspnea) and/or nocturnal cough followed by
development of asthmatic bronchitis

179




Medical Evaluation and Differential
Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be carefully evaluated to determine if
present symptoms are in fact associated with a previous
disease or injury:

—History of Addison’s disease,

—hemolytic anemia,

—viral infections,

—upper respiratory tract infections,

—gastrointestinal irritants,

—gastritis or lower gastrointestinal
diseases, and

~—non-obstructive kidney failure (anuria)
from lead or mercury poisoning.

Nonoccupational Exposure

Arsenic poisoning may occur from a home hobby or other
activities such as:
—Farming (use of pesticides),
—gardening
—wine making,
—diets very heavy in seafood (a high intake of lobster,
oysters, and mussels may elevate blood arsenic levels),
—wood preserving, and
—living near industrial plants which utilize arsenic
compounds.

Signs and Symptoms
Acute Poisoning

Acute poisoning usually occurs from exposure to arsenic-
containing dust. However, it rarely occurs in industry. High

exposure may be tolerated without symptoms of systemic
poisoning.

46


Cooper and Gaffey*’ reported a mortality study of 7,032 men
who had been employed in 6 lead production facilities and 10
battery plants for 1 or more years over a 23 year period. Lead
absorption in many of the men was greatly in excess of
currently acceptable standards based upon urinary and blood
lead concentrations available for a portion of the group.
Although the workers had high levels of exposure, only small
deviations from expected mortality were reported. Cooper and
Gaffey predicted no detectable effect on the mortality of male
adults from occupational exposure to lead controlled in
conformity to currently recommended environmental and
biological standards®.

Evidence of Exposure
Air Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses mechanical
filtration. Two methods previously used are:
1. Electrostatic precipitator and
2. impingement.

The NIOSH approved method of analysis is atomic absorption
spectrophotometry. Four methods previously used are:

1. Polargraphic,

2. spectrographic,

3. dethizone procedure, and

4. titrimetric-extraction.

These methods are not intended to be exclusive but other
methods should be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits

The Federal standard for lead and its inorganic compounds
(except lead arsenate) is 0.2 milligram per cubic meter of air
based on an 8-hour time-weighted average exposure. Lead is a
suspected occupational carcinogen with the lung and kidney
being the target organs (Key et al., eds., 1977) (NOTE: A re-
duction in the standard to less than 50 micrograms of lead per
cubic meter of air has been proposed by NIOSH.)

115


In a more recent study of the electrocardiograms (ECGs) from
192 vinegrowers suffering chronic arsenic intoxication,
Butzengeiger'‘ reported that “55 (28.7%) revealed definite
changes with 36 cases of these having no possible cause other
than arsenic poisoning. ECG abnormalities included Q-T pro-
longation and flattened T-waves. Further study showed a
decline in ECG abnormalities associated with attenuation of
other symptoms of arsenic intoxication.”

Lee and Fraumeni!® reported a study of 8047 copper smelter
workers who were exposed to arsenic trioxide over a 25-year
period. Worker exposure data is summarized as follows:

1965 SMELTER SURVEY
ATMOSPHERIC ARSENIC CONCENTRATIONS
(milligrams of arsenic per cubic meter of air)

Heavy Medium Light

Range 0.10 to 12.66 0.03 to 8.20 0.001 to 1.20

Mean 1.47 1.54 0.206
Median 0.185 0.79 0.010
Work Roaster, Kitchen, Reverberatory, Transfer System,
Area Cottrell Treater Building, Flue Station,
Loading Reactor Building

(Lee and Fraumeni, 1969)

Overall mortality of the exposed workers was significantly
higher than expected when compared to an unexposed popula-
tion with the cause of excess deaths mainly due to malignant
neoplasms of the respiratory system and diseases of the heart.
They further reported the excess of respiratory cancer to be as
high as eight-fold among workers who were employed for more
than 15 years in “heavy” exposure areas.

Perry et al.!* reported a 1-year study of 31 chemical workers who
were exposed to sodium arsenite at an English sheep-dip
factory. Air concentrations of arsenic ranged from 0.110 to
4.038 milligrams of arsenic per cubic meter with a mean value
of 0.562 milligram per cubic meter. Twenty-eight workers ex-
hibited hyperpigmentation, and 9 had wart-like lesions. The

51


Medical Evaluation

Evaluation of complaint: Past few days noticed a “pins and
needles” sensation in his feet and some weakness of the lower
legs. For several weeks or longer he has generally felt weak and
tired and not himself. In general he has not been feeling well for
quite some time. He has had some weight loss but has not been
eating well because of lack of appetite. For a time he has had
intermittent periods of nausea and vomiting, but they “come
and go.” Insomnia and rather frequent headaches have been
occurring. Remaining systemic review is negative.

Medical History

General health has always been good. Tonsils and adenoids
removed as a child; usual childhood diseases; occasional colds
but nothing serious.

Personal History

Age 36, white male, married with children, boy 13 and girl 11.
Drinks 8 to 10 ounces of alcohol a day and smokes one pack of
cigarettes a day. Lived all his life in Brooklyn, New York.
Graduated from high school at age 18. Mother and father and
two siblings living and well—mother has diabetes. As a hobby
he gardens and has many house plants, but does not use
insecticides.

Occupational History

Present occupation: Handyman—works with five other
people in a small shop where arts and crafts are made. The
work entails mixing pigments and dyes used in printing
textiles and for coloring enamels and glazes; generally keeps
the shop clean and in order.

Previous occupations: Took two courses of arts and crafts,
pottery-making and glazing in high school. Worked part-time
as a grocery clerk while in school. After graduation worked for
five, years as a ship cutter; exposed to lead, asbestos and iron
oxide.

Building superintendent, two years. No known exposures to
agents but perhaps some polishes, detergents and disinfectants.

202


Medical Evaluation and Differential

Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be considered:

—smoking history,

—periodic chest X-rays,

—periodic pulmonary function tests such as | second
forced expiratory volume (FEV,) and forced vital
capacity (FVC), and

—methemoglobin studies.

The differentail diagnosis includes:
—Pneumonia,
—acute bronchitis, and
—X-ray findings may mimic tuberculosis.

Arespiratory questionnaire (Appendix C) can be useful in eval-
uating the extent and importance of respiratory symptoms
such as:

—Breathlessness,

—sputum production,

—chest pain,

—cough, and

—wheezing.

Nonoccupational Exposure

It should also be considered that exposure to nitrogen dioxide
can be from a home hobby or activity such as:
—Automotive and related hobbies,
—welding, especially arc, and
use of a gas heater or stove.
Air pollution may also be a factor, especially in cities
with heavy vehicle use.

NOTE: Nitrogen dioxide is contained in both tobacco smoke
and smog. Smokers in smoggy areas are likely to be at
increased risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease.

136


In acute poisoning following ingestion of inorganic arsenic,
symptoms develop within 1/2 to 4 hours and are characterized
by constriction of the throat followed by:
—Inability to swallow or difficulty in swallowing
(dysphagia),
—epigastric pain,
—vomiting and abdominal pain,
—watery diarrhea, and
—shock may occur with severe fluid loss, and death may
ensue in 24 hours.

If the acute effects are survived, the following may develop:

—Inflammation of the skin involving redness and flaki-
ness (exfoliative dermatitis) and

—inflammation of the nerves, mainly of the hands and feet
(peripheral neuritis).

Acute poisoning due to inhalation is extremely rare in industry.
When it occure, respiratory and central nervous system
symptoms predominate. Gastrointestinal symptoms are less
frequent and occur later.

Respiratory and central nervous system symptoms occurring
initially are:

—Cough,

—chest pain,

—difficult or labored breathing (dyspnea),
—giddiness,

—headache, and

—extreme general weakness.

Signs and symptoms which may occur later include:
—Nausea,

—vomiting, and
—colic.

Chronic Poisoning

The signs and symptoms of chronic arsenic exposure re-
semble many diseases, including early lead poisoning, and are
characterized by:

47


APPENDIX C
SAMPLE RESPIRATORY
QUESTIONNAIRE

Use the actual wording of each question. Put X in the
appropriate space after each question. When in doubt, record
“NO.”

PREAMBLE: I am going to ask you some questions mainly
about your chest. I should like you to answer ‘YES’ or ‘NO’
whenever possible.

YES NO N/A

1. Do you usually cough first thing in
the morning or on getting up? — __

(Count a cough with first smoke or on
first going out of doors. Exclude
throat clearing or a single cough.)

2. Do you cough like this on most days
for as much as three months each
year? _—_

3. Do you cough at work? —

4. Do you usually bring up some phlegm
from your chest first thing in the
morning or on getting up? —_ __

(Count phelgm with the first smoke or
on first going out of doors. Exclude
phelgm from the nose. Count
swallowed phlegm.)

5. Do you bring up phlegm like this on

most days for as much as three
months each year? —

213


previous employer for dermatitis of the hands (Workers
Compensation Insurance). The cause of the dermatitis was
never determined nor has it recurred.

Personal History

Age 40, white male, married with one son age 20. Lived in
Pennsylvania all his life except while in the Navy when he was
stationed in New York. Drinks an occasional beer, never
smoked in any form. He quit high school at age 15 after two
years. Mother age 62, father age 63, and a brother age 42; all
living and well.

Occupational History

Present occupation: Foreman in a warehouse; warehouse
adjacent to operation where paper towels, napkins and toilet
tissue are printed. Duties consist of general supervision of the
warehouse. Exposure to paper dust and ink and oil mist as well
as exhaust from trucks at shipping platform.

Previous occupations: Age 14-16, sold newspapers (1949-1951).

Age 16-19, worked as a printer in a printing shop; in contact
with paper dust and ink (1951-1954).

Age 19-21, Navy—stationed in New York and worked as a cook.
No contact with any hazardous materials except some smoke
from cooking (1954-1956).

Age 21-30, warehouseman in charge of ticketing—directing
correct merchandise to proper retail stores. In contact with dust
and some exhaust from trucks (1956-1965).

Age 30-40, present job—foreman in warehouse operation. The
company makes and prints paper towels, napkins, toilet tissue,
etc. Warehouse is adjacent to printing operation. There is some
paper dust, ink and oil mist as well as exhaust from trucks.

He has no secondary occupation.

207


10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

. In the past three years, have you had

a period of (increased) cough and
phlegm lasting 3 weeks or more?

. Have you had more than one such

period?

. Does your chest ever feel tight or your

breathing become difficult?

. Do you get this apart from colds?

(If YES: specify ... (Interviewer to code)
(a) With Exercise

(b) At Work

(c) Any Other Time

If disabled from walking by skeletal
or other physical disability put ‘X’
here.

Are you troubled by shortness of
breath, when hurrying on the levels or
walking up a slight hill?

(If ‘NO’ omit questions 11 and 12)

Do you get short of breath walking
with other people of your own age on
level ground?

(If ‘NO’ omit question 12)

Do you have to stop for breath when
walking at your own pace on level
ground?

Do you usually have a stuffy nose
or catarrh at the back of your nose
in the winter?

Do you have this in the summer?
(If ‘NO’ to both questions 13 and 14,
go to question 16)

Do you have this on most days for as
much as three months each year?

214


It is important to ascertain the circumstances associated with
carbon monoxide poisoning since the action of carbon
monoxide is favored by conditions of heat, humidity, and a
greater amount of muscular. activity. o :

Chronic Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

There is conflicting opinion concerning the chronic effects of
carbon monoxide. Other than increased carboxyhemoglobin
levels in the blood, there are a few objective signs. Persons
with chronic exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide develop
a tolerance for it. However, the following have beeri described
as characteristic symptoms of chronic carbon ‘monoxide
poisoning: -

—loss.of muscular strength and mental alertness, ,
—persistent headache,

—constant dizziness and light headedness, and
—auditory nerve damage.

Exposures to low levels of carbon monoxide may cause or
enhance myocardial alterations (heart changes) in persons
with coronary heart disease.

Laboratory and Clinical Examinations
(See Decision-Making Process) :

Additonal data which will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

—Blood carboxyhemoglobin of 10 percent or more,

—hemoglobin value may be increased,

—electrocardiogram may show sinus tachycardia and ST
segment changes, and

—electroencephalogram may show focal and diffuse
epileptiform (resembling epilepsy) changes which
later disappear.

Epidemiology

Acute carbon monoxide poisoning from inhalation is well
documented in the scientific literature. It is the most common
poisoning in industry. and may occur wherever internal com-
bustion engines are in use. However, the question of whether
chronic carbon monoxide poisoning exists has not been resolved
in spite of numerous studies conducted by various researchers.

76


Henry et al.‘* reported an “‘excess risk of bladder cancer among
men employed at coal carbonization processes.” Redmond
et al.‘* did not observe an excessive incidence of bladder cancer
in 4,661 coke oven workers; however, when it is considered that
this is acomparatively rare cancer site with a long latent period
and the study population has an extremely high risk for cancer
of several other sites, the possibility of excess mortality
cannot be ruled out.

Over a 43 year period, Henry also reported 84 cases of
epitheliomatous ulceration (cancer of the skin) including 40
scrotal cancers. Among men with prior coke oven employment,
11 fatal scrotal cancers were reported.

The United Steelworkers of AmericaTM reported a study of 112
coke oven employees in which over 50% were diagnosed as
having some lung impairment (i-e., pneumoconiosis,
emphysema, fibrosis, and chronic bronchitis).

Evidence of Exposure

Air Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses mechanical
filtration.

The NIOSH approved analytic method uses gravimetric
techniques. Three methods previously used are:

1. Chromotography,

2. fluorometry, and

3. spectrophotometric techniques.

The above methods are not intended to be exclusive but other
methods should be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits

The standard adopted by the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) provides that no employee in
the regulated area may be exposed to coke oven emissions in
excess of 150 micrograms per cubic meter of air for an
eight-hour period. For the purpose of the Standard, coke
oven emissions as defined as the benzene-soluble fraction

86


Epidemiologic data (experience with groups of people) show a
relationship between exposure to arsenic and the development
of cancer in the lung, lymphatic system, and/or skin.

Arsenic can form many compounds. The following is a list of
common compounds and some common names followed by a
listing of occupations with potential exposure to inorganic

arsenic:

Chemical Name

Common Names

ammonium arsenate

arsenic

arsenic acid

arsenic acid, magnesium salt

arsenic acid, sodium salt

arsenical nickel

arsenic acid, trisodium salt,
heptahydrate

arsenic bisulfide
arsenic diiodide

arsenic disulfide

arsenic hemiselenide

arsenic oxychloride

ammonium acid arsenate,
diammonium salt of arsenic
acid, diammonium arsenate,
dibasic ammonium arsenate,
secondary ammonium arsenate

gray arsenic, metallic arsenic

orthoarsenic acid, true arsenic
acid

magnesium arsenate

sodium arsenate, sodium
metaarsenate

niccolite, nickel arsenide

trisodium arsenate heptahydrate

arsenic sulfide, realgar
arsenic iodide

arsenic bisulfide, arsenic
monosulfide, arsenic sulfide,
realgar, red arsenic, red arsenic
sulfide, red arsenic glass, ruby
arsenic

41


Laboratory and Clinical Exposures

Additonal data that will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

Blood

—excess lymph cells (lymphocytosis)

—increase in the number of cells that stain readily with
the acid stain eosin (eosinophil count increase)

—electrophoretic pattern of serum proteins are consistent
with nephrosis

—increased blood urea in nitrogen (BUN)

increased quantites of creatinine

—increased uric acid (with or without gout)

Urinalysis

—urine mercury levels above 300 milligrams per day are
likely to be associated with symptoms

—proteinuria

—changes associated with nephrosis (hyaline casts)

Feces

—mercury levels above 10 milligrams per day

Kidney

—evidence of nephritis

There may be no correlation between urinary mercury
excretion and clinical evidence of mercury poisoning, since
prolonged exposure may induce kidney (rena) injury and
decreased urinary excretion. Also, urinary mercury may be
increased in workers exposed to mercury, but who may or may
not exhibit symptomatology. However, urinary values are
useful guides to early exposure.

127


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mercuric oxycyanide

mercuric oxyfluoride
mercuric oxyiodide
mercuric perchlorate

mercuric phosphate

mercuric-potassium cyanide

mercuric-potassium iodide

mercury cyanide oxide,
mercury oxycyanide

mercuric-o-phosphate, mercury
phosphate, neutral mercuric
phosphate, normal mercuric
phosphate, tertiary mercuric
phosphate, trimercuric ortho-
phosphate

mercury-potassium cyanide

Channing’s solution, Mayer’s
reagent, mercury-potassium
iodide, Nessler’s reagent,
potassium mercuric iodide,
potassium tetraiodomercurate,
potassium triiodomercurate,
solution potassium iodohydra-
gyrate

mercuric potassium thiosulfate

mercuric salicylate

mercuric selenide
mercuric sesquiiodide

mercuric silver iodide

mercuric subsulfate

mercuric sulfate

mercury subsalicylate, salicy-
lated mercury

mercury-silver iodide, silver-
mercury iodide

basic mercuric sulfate, mercu-
ric dioxysulfate, turbith
mineral, turpeth mineral

mercury bisulfate, mercury per-

sulfate, mercury sulfate, mer-
cury salt of sulfuric acid

120


Clinical Evaluation

Examination revealed a white male, somewhat overweight,
in no acute distress. Skin and hair appear normal. Neck veins
not prominant, no cervical adenopathy. No abnormalities of
ears, eyes and throat. Nasal septum deviated to the right. Chest
is clear to percussion and auscultation. No murmurs or
enlargement—A2 = P2. Blood pressure 180/120 right arm;
170/110 left arm. PMI within midclavicular line. Abdomen—no
masses or organs palpable. Slight tenderness in left lower
quadrant on deep palpation. Right testicle not palpable,
inquinal rings firm. No clubbing of the fingers. Small
varicosities on left lower leg. No ankle edema. Axillary and
inquinal nodes not enlarged. Rectal examination reveals a
normal prostate, no masses or other abnormlaities palpable.
Height 5'9”; Weight 180 lbs.

Laboratory Evaluation

Chest X-ray: Heart size within normal
limits; lung fields clear.
Negative.

FVC and FEV: (Repeated 3 times) within
normal limits.

SMA-12: All chemistries normal.

CBC and Differential: Normal

Epidemiologic Data

There is no evidence in the scientific literature to indicate
that working in this environment is hazardous. Others in the
work area have occasional coughs—some with clear sputum
production. These men all have negative clinical and
laboratory findings. Epidemiologic evidence does exist to show
that over 20 percent of the male and 9 percent of the female
working population over 25 years of age in the United States
have a chronic bronchitis (1970. N.E.J. Med. 270:894).

Contaminants in the Work Environment

The workplace was surveyed in 1973 (Table 2, a, b, c).
Potential exposures are well within the allowable OSHA limits.
The toxicity of carbon monoxide is well known, however, the
levels of exposure in this case are far below toxic limits. Oil and
ink mist have not been demostrated to cause specific disease

208


Chronic Poisoning

In chronic poisoning, all acute symptoms may occur but the
onset may be slower and insidious. Additional] oral symptoms
associated with ingestion or inhalation which may occur are:

—Characteristic “blue line” on the gums, similar to lead
poisoning,

—upper respiratory tract inflammation, and

—inflammation of the membrane that lines the eyelid and
the front of the eyeball (conjunctivitis).

“Erethism”, a form of anxiety neurosis and personality
changes first described in the felt hat industry, may occur. The
triad of gingivitis, tremor, and emotional instability described
may be practically specific. Erethism may be accompanied by:

—Self-consciousness,

—timidity,

—inappropriate embarrassment,

—anxiety indecision,

—inability to concentrate,

—dependency,

—depression,

—resentment of criticism, and

—irritability on excitement.

Headache, fatigue, weakness, drowsiness, or insomnia may
follow. In advanced cases, hallucination, memory loss, and
intellectual deterioration may occur.

Circulatory disturbances may be linked to emotional distur-
bances and result in:

—Blushing,

—excessive perspiration, and

—dermographia (ability to sketch figures on skin).

Central nervous system symptoms are:

—Personality disorders as described above,

—tremor, one of the most prominent signs. It is the fine
intention type and can be seen in the face and arms but
rarely in the legs; it may progress to the coarse type and
convulsions. Tremor also affects handwriting.

—speech disorders such as “scanning speech” (hesitancy,
slurring of words, and difficulty in pronunciation). This
may be more severe in organic mercury poisoning.

125


Nitrous acid workers

Nickel refiners

Nickel smelters

Nuclear reactor workers

Nuclear technologists

Nurses

Nylon & makers

Oil bleachers

Oil processors

Oil purifiers

Oilcloth makers

Oilstone workers

Openers, cotton mill

Optical equipment makers

Ore smelters

Ore smelting workers

Organic chemical
synthesizers

Organic sulfonate makers
Ordnance manufacturing
Oxalic acid makers

Oxidized cellulose
compound makers
Paint makers

Paint mixers
Paint pigment makers
Painters

Paper hangers
Paper makers

Paraffin processors

Patent leather makers
Painters

Paper manufacture

Paper products manufacture
Pearl makers, imitation
Pencil makers

Percussion cap makers
Perfume makers

Pesticide workers

Benzene, nitrogen dioxide
Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide

Lead

Lead

Nitrogen dioxide

Tol. diisocyanate

Sulfur dioxide

Benzene, sulfur dioxide
Silica

Benzene

Silica

Cotton dust

Silica

Arsenic, lead

Sulfur dioxide

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
nitrogen dioxide, carbon
monoxide, tol. diisocyanate
Sulfur dioxide

Noise

Nitrogen dioxide, carbon
monoxide

Nitrogen dioxide

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,

lead, mercury, sulfur dioxide,

asbestos

Silica

Lead

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
lead

Arsenic, lead

Arsenic, mercury, sulfur

dioxide

Benzene

Lead, carbon monoxide

Antimony, arsenic

Noise

Noise

Lead

Benzene

Mercury

Antimony, benzene

Mercury

231


Artificial flower makers Arsenic

Artificial leather makers Benzene, nitrogen dioxide
Artists, commercial Lead, mercury
Arc welders Carbon monoxide
Arsine workers Arsenic
Artificial abrasive makers Carbon monoxide
Artificial gas workers Carbon monoxide
Asbestos product Benzene

impregnators
Asphalt mixers Benzene

Asbestos-cement products Asbestos
Asbestos-cement products Asbestos

users

Asbestos-coating makers Asbestos

Asbestos-coating users Asbestos

Asbestos-Grout makers Asbestos

Asbestos-Grout users Asbestos

Asbestos-millboard makers Asbestos

Asbestos-mortar makers Asbestos

Asbestos-mortar users Asbestos

Asbestos millers Asbestos

Asbestos miners Asbestos

Asbestos-paper makers Asbestos

Asbestos-paper users Asbestos

Asbestos-plaster makers Asbestos

Asbestos-plaster users Asbestos

Asbestos sprayers Asbestos

Asbestos workers Asbestos

Asbestos product Asbestos

impregnators

Auto body shop workers Lead

Auto garage workers Silica, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur
dioxide, carbon monoxide,
asbestos, lead

Auto painters Nitrogen dioxide

Automotive workers Benzene, sulfur dioxide, carbon
monoxide, nitrogen dioxide

Automobile users Carbon monoxide

Babbitters Lead

Babbitt metal workers Antimony, arsenic

Bactericide makers Mercury

Barometer makers Mercury

Battery makers Mercury

Battery makers, dry Benzene

Battery workers, storage Antimony

220


—auto repair,

—operating noisy equipment (tractors, lawn mowers, etc.),
—traffic,

—pistol, rifle, or shotgun firing,

—auto racing, and

—operating motorcycles, snowmobiles, or boats.

Signs and Symptoms

Early signs of hearing loss are:
—Inability to understand spoken words in a noisy
environment,
—need to look at the person speaking to understand words,
—familiar music may not sound the same, and
—changes occur in routine audiometric examination.

NOTE: The American Academy of Opthalmology and Oto-
laryngology Guide for Determining Hearing Impairment is a
useful guide for assessing handicaps due to hearing loss.

Laboratory and Clinical Evaluations
Other Tests

A thorough clinical examination of the ear should include
the following:

—External ear examination for scars or malfunctions,

—otoscopic examinations of ear drum (typanic membrane)
for any abnormalities,

—examination of nose, throat, and nasopharynx for any
abnormalities,

—eye reflexes are noted (pupil and cornea),

—examination with tuning fork,

—pure tone audiometric examination,

—bone conduction studies,

—speech reception testing for threshold and
discrimination,

—recruitment and tone decay studies, and

—other tests may be conducted.

149


weighting networks on most sound measuring equipment. The
A-scale is thought to rate noise in a similar manner as the
human ear. Measurements are A-weighted, slow response for
the evaluation of continuous noise. If only octave band
analyses are available, equivalent A-weighted levels can be
calculated for comparison to current standards.

There is a wide variety of instrumentation available for the
evaluation of noise from very simple equipment to extremely
sophisticated equipment used by acoustical engineers and
consultants. The Occupational Safety and Health Administra-
tion (OSHA) proposes that noise level measurements for steady-
state or continuous noise be made “with a sound level meter
confirming as a minimum to the requirements of the ANSI
Z1.4-1971, Type 2, and set to an A-weighted slow resonse or with
an audio-dosimeter of equivalent accuracy and precision.”
Measurements should be taken as cloée as possible to the
hearing zone of the worker whose noise exposure is being
evaluated.

For the measurement of impact noise (such as that from a drop
hammer), an impact noise meter with peak hold capability
should be used. This type meter should conform to the require-
ments of ANSI Z1.4-1971, Type 1.

Sound level measuring instrumentation should be calibrated
with an acoustical calibrator the day of the study, preferably
before and after the noise measurements.

Allowable Exposure Limits

The OSHA allowable limits for continuous noise are as
follows: :

DURATION PER DAY SOUND LEVEL dBA

HOURS SLOW RESPONSE
8 90
6 92
4 95
3 97
2 100
1% 102
1 105
% 110
% or less 115

153


PREFACE

The mission of the National Institute forOccupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH) is to protect the health and safety of
working men and women. Within the context ofits program are
NIOSH efforts that are directed toward the identification of
those disease conditions that are closely related to or caused by
the work environment as a necessary prerequisite to their pre-
vention.

This guide, originally published in part in 1976, has been
revised and expanded to reflect new knowledge as well as
suggestions submitted by users of the guide. The guide is
designed primarily as an aid to state agencies and others con-
cerned with occupational disease compensation. It presents
one method for assembling and evaluating evidence that may
be relevant in determining the work-relatedness of a disease in
an individual. Information on fourteen disease-producing
agents is presented to illustrate the decision-making process. It
should be noted that such information may not be complete and
does not necessarily reflect the most recent data regarding
health standards and epidemiologic studies.

NIOSH will welcome suggestions from users of the guide for
its improvement.

iii


Differentail Blood Count: Determination of the number of
(different) white blood cells in a cubic millimeter of blood.

Differential Diagnosis: Comparison of symptoms of two or
more similar diseases to determine which disease the worker
has.

Digital Clubbing: Rounding and swelling of the ends of the
fingers.

Direct-Reading Instrument: An instrument which gives an
immediate indication of concentration of an airborne
contaminant by some means such as a meter or the changing
color of a chemical.

Dysphagia: Inability to swallow or difficulty in swallowing.

Dyspnea: Labored or difficult breathing.

Edema: A swelling of body tissues.

Electrophoretic: A method of analyzing the movement of
charged protein particles.

Emphysema: A lung disease in which the walls of the air sac
(alveoli) have been stretched and broken down.

Emphysematous Bullae: Large blisters on lung surfaces filled
with fluid caused by emphysema.

Eosin: An acid dye used for staining tissues for microscopic
examination.

Eosinophil: A white blood cell containing granules that readily
stain with the acid stain, eosin.

Epistaxis: Bleeding from the nose.
Epithelioma;: Carcinoma of the epithelial cells of the skin.

Epitheliomatous Ulceration: An open sore or lesion originating
in the epidermis of the skin or in a mucous membrane.

Erethism: Triad of gingivitis, tremor, and emotional
instability.

247


Jaundice: A condition characterized by yellowness of skin
and sclerae (white of eyes), mucous membranes, and body
fluids due to deposition of bile pigment resulting from excess
bilirubin in the blood.

Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea.

Lacrimation: Secretion and discharge of tears.

Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx.

Larynx: Voice box.

Latent Period: The time which elapses between exposure and
the first manifestation of symptoms.

Lesion: An injury, damage, or abnormal change in a tissue
or organ.

Leukemia: A blood disease distinguished by a marked increase
of white blood cells.

Leukemogen: Any substance or agent that produces or incites
leukemia.

Leukocyte: A white blood cell.
Leukocytosis: An increase in the number of white blood cells.

Leukopenia: A reduction in the total number of white blood
cells.

Lymphoblastic: A disease characterized by the presence of
immature lymphocytes.

Malaise: A feeling of illness or depression.
Malignancy: A neoplasm or tumor that is cancerous.
Malignant: Virulent or harmful.

Maturation: The final stages of differentiation of
cells, tissues, or organs.

Mean Corpuscular Volume: A measurement of the volume of
red corpuscles.

251


PROBABLE RESULT OF SINGLE
EXPOSURE TO NITROGEN DIOXIDE

Exposure
Time Concentration Expected Effect
(min) in Air (ppm) in Humans
5 400
15 200 Pulmonary edema and
30 150 death
60 100
5 200 Pulmonary edema with
15 100 possible subacute or
30 75 chronic lesions in the
60 50 lungs
5 100
15 50 Respiratory irritation,
30 40 chest pain
60 25

(Emergency Exposure Limits, AIHA J, 1964)

Lowry and Schuman#®! reported a study of 4 workers who were
exposed to nitrogen dioxide after entering a silo or silo chute.
Exposure occurred within 48 hours of filling of the silo.
Although actual environmental measurements were not avail-
able, observed concentrations of nitrogen dioxide obtained
during research experiments in agricultural science have
ranged from 200 to 4,000 ppm. Irritating fumes were noted by
all 4 workers who also experienced respiratory symptoms of
varying degrees of severity and developed bronchiolitis fibrosa
obliterans. Two of the workers died, 1 on the 27th and the other
on the.30th day. One of the surviving 2 was hospitalized for
about 1 week, the other for 3 weeks. Both were able to resume
normal duties but tiny nodular densities throughout both lung
fields were still detectable by X-ray 2 months after exposure.

143



lead sulfide

lead sulfite

lead telluride
lead tetrachloride
lead tetrafluoride

lead tetroxide

lead thiocyanate
lead thiosulfate

lead titanate

lead tungstate

lead vanadate

lead vitriol

lead zirconate titanate

C.I. 77640, galena, galanite,
natural lead sulfide, plumbous
sulfide

altaite

plumbic fluoride

C.I. 77578, C.1. Pigment Red 105,
gold satinobre, lead ortho-
plumbate, lead oxide red,
mineral orange, mineral red,
minium, minium nonsetting
RL-95, orange lead, Paris red,
plumbo-plumbic oxide, red lead,
sandix, Saturn red

lead sulfocyanate
lead hyposulfite

lead-m-titanate, lead salt of
titanic acid

lead wolframate, raspite,
stolzite

lead-m-vanadate, lead meta-
vanadate, lead vanadinate

anglesite

LZT

Occupations with Potential Exposures to Inorganic Lead

acid finishers

actors

artists, commercial
auto body shop workers

chemical equipment makers
chippers

chlorinated paraffin makers
cigar makers

104


Occupations with Potential Exposures to Benzene

adhesive makers

airplane dope makers

alcohol workers

aniline makers

art glass workers

artificial leather makers

asbestos product
impregnators

asphalt mixers

automotive workers

battery makers, dry

belt scourers

benzene hexachloride makere

benzene workers

brakelining makers

bronzers

burnishers

can makers

carbolic acid makers

cast scrubbers, electroplating

chemical synthesis

chlorobenzene makers

chlorodipheny] makers

clutch disc impregnators

coal tar refiners

coal tar workers

cobblers

coke oven workers

cyclohexane makers

DDT makers

degreasers

detergent makers

dichlorobenzene makers

diphenyl makers

disinfectant makers

drug makers

dry cleaners

dye makers

electroplaters

enamelers

engravers

ethylbenzene makers

explosive makers

nitrobenzene makers
nitrocellulose workers

oil processors

oilcloth makers

organic chemical synthesizers
paint makers

painters

paraffin processors
pencil makers

perfume makers
petrochemical workers
petroleum refinery workers
pharmaceutical workers
phenol makers
photographic chemical makers
picric acid makers
polish makers

pottery decorators
printers

putty makers
reclaimera, rubber

resin makers

respirator makers
rotogravure printers
rubber cementers
rubber gasket makers
rubber makers

shellac makers

shoe factory workers
shoe finishers

soap makers

solvent makers

stainers

stain makers

styrene makers
synthetic fiber makers
tobacco seedling treaters
trinitrotoluol makers
type cleaners

varnish makers
vulcanizers

wax makers


Epidemiology

The relationship between occupational exposure to arsenic
and chronic poisoning signs and symptoms including malaise,
abdominal complaints, anorexia, hyperkeratosis, and pruritis
has been well documented in scientific literature.

It has been shown that arsenic may be absorbed through the
skin, from the tracheobronchial tree, and from the gastro-
intestinal tract. For this reason, nonoccupational exposure to
arsenic which can be present in the air, water, and food should
be reviewed since it can also elicit a toxicological response.
Arsenic absorption, however, does not necessarily indicate
poisoning. These facts should be kept in mind when considering
the epidemiologic data.

Pinto et al.'' reported a study of 24 smelter workers who were
exposed to an average airborne arsenic concentration range of
0.003 to 0.295 milligram per cubic meter with a mean value of
0.053 milligram per cubic meter. The workers were exposed to
arsenic trioxide. Average urinary arsenic values ranged from
0.038 to 0.539 milligram of arsenic per liter of urine with an
overall average of 0.174 milligram of arsenic per liter. The
Pearson correlation factor between airborne arsenic concen-
trations and urinary arsenic levels over the range studied was
0.530 (P < 0.01) which demonstrates a statistically significant
correlation. There was evidence that nonoccupational arsenic
absorption from the consumption of seafood resulted in
elevated urinary arsenic levels.

The following sections in quotes are from the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health:'?

Butzengeiger'’ reported a study of “180 vinedressers and cellar-
men who were exposed to arsenical insecticides while tending
the vineyards and from consuming homemade wine believed to
be contaminated with arsenic. All had symptoms of chronic
arsenic intoxication, and in 41, there was evidence of vascular
disorders in the extremities. Of 15 cases described in detail, all
had varying degrees of hyperpigmentation, and 13 had palmar
and plantar keratosis; all 15 had cold hands, feet, or both which
seemed to preceed the development of gangrene on toes or
fingers in 6 of the 15. Urinary arsenic levels ranged from 0.076
to 0.934 milligram of arsenic per liter with a mean value of 0.324
milligram per liter. Average arsenic content in hair was 0.039
milligram of arsenic per 100 grams of hair.”

50


~chest pain,
~cough, and
--wheezing.

Nonoccupational Exposure

Exposure to sulfur dioxide may be from:

—Air pollution,

—hobbies invloved with auto mechanics and exposure to
exhaust gases from cars equipped with catalytic
converters, and

—working as a volunteer fireman.

Signs and Symptoms
Acute Exposures

—irritation of nose and throat,
—burning sensation in the eyes,
—secretion and discharge of tears (lacrimation),
—mucous flows from nose (rhinorrhea),
—cough,

—choking sensation,

—sneezing,

—bronchoconstriction (reflex type),
—increased bronchial secretion,
—increased pulmonary resistance,
—rales, high pitched type,

—prolonged expiratory phase, and
—bronchial asthma.

In severe exposure, the above progresses to:
—Chemical bronchopneumonia (inflammation of the
terminal bronchioles and alveoli) and
—bronchiolitis obliterans (irritation of the bronchioles
that results in their closure).

Hypersensitive individuals will ‘develop urticarial skin
eruption (characterized by pale evanescent wheals or hives
associated with severe itching) and swelling of the eyelids.

Signs and symptoms that liquid sulfur dioxide can cause in the
eye are:
—Corneal burns (may be painless) and

171


Inorganic Lead

Introduction

Lead, a very soft malleable blue-grey metal, has many in-
dustrial applications. It is naturally deposited underground
and has been mined and spread throughout the environment
by emissions of motor vehicle exhausts and airborne emissions
from smelters. Lead is one of the most common contaminants
of the environment. It accumulates in bone and other tissues
with age.

The important routes of absorption of lead in man are the gas-
trointestinal tract and the lungs. Dermal absorption is rela-
tively insignificant in most cases.

The effects of lead poisoning are cumulative and result in a
large variety of health problems beginning with nonspecific
symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, cramps, and headaches
and eventually leading to a variety of disorders that canendin
paralysis, brain damage, and death.

Serious cases of lead poisoning are rare in industry today be-
cause of more efficient material handling methods and bio-
logical monitoring. Intestinal colic (colon spasms accompanied
by pain throughout the abdomen) preceded by several days of
constipation is the most common manifestation of lead poison-
ing (Hunter, 1975).

Stresses such as an accident, operation, pneumonia or other
infection, physical exertion, or alcohol ingestion can cause
accumulated body lead to be released into the body and produce
symptoms of lead poisoning in workers whose metabolism of
lead is in delicate balance (Key et al., eds., 1977, and Plunkett,
1976).

Among female workers exposed to excessive lead levels, an
increased number of miscarriages and stillbirths, menstrual
disorders, and sterility are recognized risks. Lead poisoning
as well as moderate increased absorption of lead decreases
the fertility of men.

Blood lead, free erythrocyte protoporphyrin (FEP), and zinc
protoporphyrin (ZP or ZPP) have been shown to be indicators of

99



Subcutaneous: Beneath or to be introduced beneath the skin.
Substernal: Beneath the breastbone.

Supervene: The development of an additional condition as a
complication to an existing disease.

Syncope: Fainting.

Synergism: Producing a total effect greater than the sum of
separate effects.

Systemic: Spread throughout the body.

Tachycardia: Rapid heart action, usually defined as over 100
beats per minute.

Tachypnea: Rapid breathing.

Threshold Limit Value (TLV): An atmospheric exposure level
under which most people can work without harmful effects.

Thrombocytopenia: Decrease in number of the blood platelets.
Time-Weighted Average (Exposure): An average of several
samples taken at various times during a working day. Usually
more representative of the true exposure to a person for
evaluation of long term effects from a harmful agent.
Tinnitis: A ringing sound in the ears.

Toxic Nephrosis: Kidney failure due to toxic degeneration of
the kidney or renal tubules.

Toxicology: Study of the effects of toxic or poisonous substances.

Trachea: Cylindrical tube from the larynx to the bronchial
tubes.

Tracheitis: Inflammation of the trachea.
Tracheobronchial: Trachea or bronchial tubes.

Tracheobronchitis: Inflammation of the mucous membrane
that lines the trachea or bonchi.

257


2. Is the area of specialty of the industrial hygienist re-
lated to the evidence being given (comprehensive,
engineering, toxicology, acoustics, air pollution,
chemistry)?

3. Does the industrial hygienist have experience with the
particular occupation involved?

Whenever possible, reports of past industrial hygiene studies
pertinent to the case should be relied upon to provide basic
environmental evidence. To be credible, personnel conducting
industrial hygiene studies for use as evidence should be pro-
fessionals trained in industrial hygiene or be under the direction
of such professionals.

24


Feltmakers
Ferrosilicon workers
Fertilizer makers

Fettlers

File cutters
Fingerprint detectors
Firemen

Fireworks makers

Fiberizers (asbestos)

Fireproofers

Fischer-Tropsch process
workers

Flameproofers

Flint workers

Flour bleachers

Flower makers, artificial
Flue cleaners

Flypaper makers

Food bleachers

Foundry workers

Formeldehyde makers
Foundries
Foundry workers
(core making)
Fruit preservers
Fruit bleachers
Fuel oil handlers
Fumigant makers
Fumigators
Fungicide makers
Fur preservers
Fur processors
Furnace liners
Furnace operators
Furniture finishers
Fused quartz workers
Furnace filter makers
Furnace starters
Furnace workers

Mercury

Arsenic

Arsenic, nitrogen dioxide,
silica, sulfur dioxide

Silica

Lead

Mercury

Lead, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur
dioxide, asbestos, carbon
monoxide

Antimony, arsenic, mercury

Asbestos

Asbestos

Carbon monoxide

Antimony

Silica

Nitrogen dioxide, sulfur
dioxide

Lead

Sulfur dioxide

Arsenic

Nitrogen dioxide, sulfur
dioxide

Antimony, lead, silica, sulfur
dioxide

Carbon monoxide

Noise

Tol. Diisocyanate

Sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxide
Benzene
Benzene, sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxide
Benzene, mercury
Mercury

Mercury

Silica

Sulfur dioxide
Benzene

Silica

Asbestos

Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide

226


Phosphoric acid makers
Photoengravers
Photographers
Photographic chemical
makers
Photography workers
Phthalic acid makers
Physicians
Pickers, cotton mill
Picklers
Picric acid makers
Pigment makers
Pipefitters
Plasma torch operators
Plastic cast bronzers
Pottery kiln workers
Power plant operators
Porcelain workers
Preservative makers
Press box operators,
cotton mill
Pressure gage makers.
Printers
Printing ink workers
Protein makers, edible
Protein makers, industrial
Primary metal processing
Printing
Printers
Producer gas workers
Pulpstone workers
Putty makers
Pump packing makers
Pyrites burners
Pyrotechnics workers
Pyroxylin-plastics workers
Quarry workers
Quartz workers
Raw silk bleachers
Rayon makers
Reclaimers, rubber
Refiners
Refractory makers
Refrigeration workers
Resin makers

Nitrogen dioxide
Mercury, nitrogen dioxide
Mercury

Benzene

Lead

Nitrogen dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Cotton dust

Nitrogen dioxide
Benzene

Antimony, arsenic
Lead, nitrogen dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Antimony

Carbon monoxide
Noise

Antimony, silica
Arsenic, sulfur dioxide
Cotton dust

Mercury
Antimony, benzene, lead
Arsenic

Sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxide
Noise

Noise

Antimony, benzene
Carbon monoxide
Silica

Benzene, lead
Asbestos

Sulfur dioxide
Antimony, arsenic
Lead

Silica

Silica

Nitrogen dioxide
Arsenic

Tenzene, lead
Mercury

Silica

Sulfur dioxide
Benzene

234


Other measures that may ultimately enhance the equitable
handJing of cases involving possible aggravation of disease
are:

a. Encourage research on the causes of chronic disease and
the relative degree of contribution of various factors;

b. encourage research into the possibility of removing cas
of aggravation from the “all or nothing” decision realm.
While this approach has certain drawbacks, it may also
make possible partial compensation for diseases not
previously held compensable. (This is being done through
second injury funds established in some states.)

c. encourage preventive medicine through preplacement
medica] examinations and job selection procedures to
place workers in jobs which will not aggravate any of
their preexisting health conditions.

20


Jead-o-phosphate

lead-o-phosphite

lead phosphite, dibasic
lead potassium thiocyanate
lead pyrophosphate

lead selenate

lead selenide

lead sesquioxide

lead silicate

lead silicate, dibasic

lead-sodium thiosulfate

lead stannate

lead sulfate

lead sulfate, basic

lead sulfate, blue basic

lead orthophosphate, normal
lead orthophosphate, lead
phosphate, perlex paste 500,
perlex paste 600A, plumbous
phosphate, lead salt of
phosphoric acid, pyromorphite,
trilead phosphate

Clausthalite

lead trioxide, plumbous
plumbate

Alamosite, lead-m-silicate,
lead metasilicate

white lead silicate

lead-sodium hyposulfite,
sodium-lead hyposulfite,
sodium-lead thiosulfate

Auglisite, C.I. 77630, C.I.
Pigment White 3, fash white,
Freeman’s white lead, lead
bottoms, milk white, Mulhouse
white, lead salt of sulfuric acid

sublimed white lead

blue lead, sublimed blue lead

103


Nonoccupational Exposure
Potential nonoccupational sources of silica dust include:

—Ceramics, pottery and related hobbies,

—work with plasters, mortars, or cements having a high
silica content, and

—rock working hobbies (carving, cutting, chiseling).

Signs and Symptoms—Simple Silicosis

Simple silicosis may be nonspecific early in the course of the
illness and have little effect on ventilatory capacity. Generally,
the only finding is nodulation of the lungs as seen on a chest X-
tay. Approximately 20 to 30% of the persons with simple
silicosis go on to develop complicated silicosis despite removal
from a silica environment.

Signs and Symptoms—Complicated
Silicosis

—Cough and sputum (productive cough),

—labored or difficult breathing (dyspnea),

—wheezes (rhonchi),

—crackling sound (crepitations), on examination of the

lungs,
—chest pain,
—bluish or grayish discoloration of the skin (cyanosis),

—decreased pulmonary function, and
—chest X-ray shows nodulation of the lungs.

Progression of involvement is related to continued exposure,
increasing age, smoking, and pulmonary infections. Severe
pulmonary fibrosis may occur in 20 to 30% of workers who
develop silicosis. In advanced cases, the following may occur:
—Chronic bronchitis,
—obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema),
—cardiac failure may occur, and
—death may occur from respiratory failure.

Silicosis may also co-exist with tuberculosis. It should also be
noted that silicosis favors the growth of the tubercle bacillii.
However, silicosis may suppress the usual features of epitheloid
cell proliforation, giant cell formation, and lymphocytic
Teaction.

160


In a study of 727 mine workers from a representative group of
metal mines, Dreessen et al.** reported an incidence of silicosis
in 25% of the workers exposed for more than 6 years to silica
dust concentrations of 10 to 23 million particles per cubic foot
(mppcf) having a free silica content of 20 to 40%. No cases of
silicosis were observed in workers whose exposures did not
exceed an average of 18 mppcf and whose employment
exposure did not exceed 10 years. The severity of pulmonary
fibrosis among cases of silicosis increased greatly with
increasing length of employment.

Flinn et al.%* reported a study of 2,516 workers who
manufactured pottery products in 9 potteries. Workers were
exposed to dust containing from 1 to 39% quartz and having an
average particle diameter of 1.2 micrometers. The following
table summarizing data from the report is taken from the
NIOSH Criteria Document on crystalline silica:°*

RELATION OF DUST CONCENTRATION AND
LENGTH OF EMPLOYMENT IN THE
POTTERY INDUSTRY TO SILICOSIS*

Dust Concentration Years in Pottery Industry
(million particles
per cubic foot) 0-9 10-19 20-29 30-39 Over40

0-3.9:
Cases of silicosis - 1 1 - -
Workers exposed 481 223 65 21 8
Percentage 1) 0.4 15 0 0
4-7.9:
Cases of silicosis 1 6 26 27 29
Workers exposed 321 198 110 53 34
Percentage 0.3 3 24 51 85
8-15.9:
Cases of silicosis : 8 5 10 10
Workers exposed 176 = «119 25 17 14
Percentage i) 7 20 59 71

163



Conclusion

Diagnostic criteria for occupational silicosis are based on
meeting the following:

1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to free silica
of:

a. a particle size capable of producing the disease
(pathologic)

b. sufficient intensity of exposure

c. sufficient duration of exposures

2. X-ray findings as outlined above (in accordance with
ILO U/C International Classification of Radiographs
of Pneumoconioses 1971)

3. clinical findings compatible with silicosis as outlined
above .

4. lung function test results that are indicative of respira-
tory dysfunction associated with the formation of
fibrous tissue within the tissue spaces (interstitial
fibrosis)

Lung biopsy and lung sections collected after death remain the
only unequivocal methods of making a definitive diagnosis.

167



Chemical Name

Common Names

emetine antimony iodide
lead antimonate

oxo (tartrato) antimonate
(1-) aniline

sodium antimonate

sodium antimony adonitol

antimony emetine iodide
antimony yellow, Naples yellow

aniline antimony] tartrate,
antimony] aniline tartrate

antimony sodiate

sodium antimony! D-arabitol

sodium antimony] biscatechol

sodium antimony] tert-butyl

catechol

sodium antimony] catechol
thiosalicylate

sodium antimony) citrate

sodium antimony] erythritol

sodium antimonous-3-catechol
thiosalicylate, stibsol

sodium antimony! D-funcitol

sodium antimony] gluco-
guloheptitol

sodium antimony] glycerol

sodium antimonyl
2,5-methylene D-mannitol

sodium antimony]
2,4-methylene D-sorbitol

sodium antimony] xylitol

32


Chest X-ray
—may show reticulation, nodulation, and enlarged hilar
shadows after long-term exposure
—X-ray findings compatible with bronchiectasis, pul-
monary edema, emphysema, bronchiolitis obliterans,
asthma

An additional test result which will assist in arriving at a
correct diagnosis is:
~inhibition of thyroid function

Epidemiology

Studies of workers exposed to sulfur dioxide in their work
environment have suggested association with chronic
nonspecific pulmonary disease. However, no quantitative
exposure-effect relationships have been derived from the
published reports of occupational exposure, and mixed exposures
have been the general rule.!°° This should be taken into
consideration when evaluating the following material:

Smith et al.!° reported a study of 113 copper smelter workers
who were exposed to concentrations of sulfur dioxide ranging
from 1.6 to 45 ppm with the highest concentrations occurring
close to the production source. Combination dust and gas
masks were used intermittently when a worker experienced or
expected irritation. Over the 2-year study period, the workers
showed an excessive loss of pulmonary function averaging 74.5
milliliter loss of forced vital capacity (FVC) and 84.0 milliliter
loss of 1 second forced expiratory volume (FEV)) per year.
Workers with FEV, below normal on initial measurements
(based on their age and height) showed evidence of even greater
loss of pulmonary function related to sulfur dioxide exposure. It
was concluded that sulfur dioxide exposures greater than 1
ppm are associated with an accelerated loss of pulmonary
function that could lead to chronic pulmonary disease if high
exposures were continued for a sufficient period of time.

Kehoe et al.'°? reported a study of the effect of prolonged
exposure to sulfur dioxide on 100 workers who manufactured
electric refrigerators. At the time of the study, atmospheric
concentrations of sulfur dioxide averaged from 20 to 30 ppm
with a range of 5 to 70 ppm. (5 years before the study,

173



Lead burners
Lead counterweight
makers
Lead flooring makers
Lead foil makers
Lead hardeners
Lead mill workers
Lead miners
Lead pipe makers
Lead salt makers
Lead shield makers
Lead shot makers
Lead shot workers
Lead smelters
Lead stearate makers
Lead workers
Leather workers
Leather makers
Lead mordanters
Lead smelters
Leather mordants
Lime burners
Linoleum makers
Linotypers
Linseed oil boilers
Lint cleaner operators,
cotton mill
Lithographers

Lithotransfer workers
Lift truck operators

(propane and gasoline

fueled)
Lime kiln workers
Lithographers
Lumbering
Magnesium foundry
workers
Maleic acid makers
Manometer makers
Masons
Match makers
Meat preservers
Medical technicians

Antimony, arsenic, lead
Lead

Lead

Lead

Antimony, lead

Lead

Lead

Lead

Lead

Lead

Antimony, arsenic, lead
Antimony, arsenic, lead
Arsenic, lead, sulfur dioxide
Lead

Lead

Lead, arsenic

Benzene

Antimony

Arsenic, lead
Antimony

Arsenic

Benzene, lead
Antimony, lead

Lead

Cotton dust

Benzene, lead, nitrogen
dioxide, silica

Lead

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide
Benzene, silica
Noise

Sulfur dioxide

Benzene
Mercury

Silica
Antimony, lead
Sulfur dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide

229


trations were below 60 micrograms per cubic meter. Sakurai
et al. concluded that subjective symptoms are not likely to be
induced by lead when the blood level is 50 micrograms per 100
grams and less.

AVERAGE AND MEDIAN BLOOD LEAD CONTENT IN
MILLIGRAMS PER 100 GRAMS OF BLOOD IN
STORAGE BATTERY WORKERS, BY EXPOSURE
AND DURATION OF EMPLOYMENT

Air Lead Content

(milligrams per cubic meter)
Duration of
‘Lead Exposure| 0-0.074 | 0.075-0.14 0.15-0.29 | 0.3 or greater
Years: 0-4
Number 17 16 32 20
Average 0.0187 0.0316 0.0378 0.0463
Median 0.021 0.030 0.038 0.050
Years: 5-9
Number 10 13 40 24
Average 0.0278 0.0405 0.0501 0.0505
Median 0.033 0.040 0.043 0.050
Years: 10-14
Number 23 24 30 32
Average 0.0198 0.0375 0.0502 0.0481
Median 0.018 0.038 0.046 0.048
Years: 15+
Number 44 30 59 45
Average 0.0293 0.0407 0.0457 0.0493
Median 0.023 0.036 0.045 0,045

(Dreesen et al., 1941, National Academy of Sciences, 1971, and NIOSH, 1972)

Lancranjan et al.*6 reported a study of the reproductive ability
of 150 men occupationally exposed to lead in a storage battery
plant. One hundred men (Group A) had an average exposure of
8.5 years (the range was 1 to 23 years) in the plant; 50
technicians and office workers (Group B) worked in annex
workrooms in a lead-polluted environment for 1 to 27 (mean 6)
years. Environmental measurements were not given. Workers
displaying moderately increased absorption of lead or lead
poisoning showed a highly significant fertility decrease.

Laboratory values from the report are given in the following
table.

113


SUPPLEMENTARY MEDICAL INFORMATION

When required tests under paragraph (B)(1) of this section
show abnormalities, the tests should be repeated as soon as
practicable, preferably within 3 to 4 weeks. If tests remain
abnormal, consideration should be given to withdrawal of the
employee from contact with vinyl chloride, while a more
comprehensive examination is made.

Additiona) tests which may be useful:

A. For kidney dysfunction: urine examination for albumin,
red blood cells, and exfoliative abnormal cells.

B. Pulmonary system: Forced vital capacity, forced expira-
tory volume at 1 second, and chest roentgenogram
(posterior-anterior, 14 X 17 inches).

C. Additional serum tests: Lactic acid dehydrogenase, lactic
acid dehydrogenase isoenzyme, protein determination, and
protein electrophoresis.

D. For a more comprehensive examination on repeated
abnormal. serum tests; Hepatitis B antigen, and liver
scanning.

IL CARCINOGENS

4-Nitrobipheny]
Alpha-Naphthylamine
Methyl chloromethyl ether
3,3’ - Dichlorobenzidine (and its salts)
bis-Chloromethyl ether
beta-Naphthylamine
Benzidine

4-Aminodiphenyl
Ethleneimine
beta-Propiolactone
2-Acetylaminofluorene
4-Dimethylaminoazobenzene
N-Nitrosodimethylamine


Inorganic Arsenic

Daun, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1973. Work is Dangerous
to Your Health. New York: Random House.

Dinman, B. D. 1960. J. Occup. Med. 2:137.

Foreman, H. 1962. Ann. Rev. Pharm. 2:341.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Jackson, R. 1975. CMAd. 113:396.

Key, M. M.; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases— A Guide
to Their Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
Office.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, S309 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Patty, F. A. ed. 1963. Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. 2nd
ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Pinto, S. 1976. J. Occup. Med. 18.677.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemica] Publishing Co., Inc.

Sax, N. I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Schroeder, H. A. 1974. The Poisons Around Us. Bloomington:
Indiana University Press.

Asbestos

Arena, J. M. 1970. Poisoning, Toxicology, Symptoms, Treat-
ments. Springfield: Charles C. Thomas.

Council on Occupational Health. 1963. Arch. Env. Health.
7:130.

Hamilton, A.; and Hardy, H. L. 1974. Industrial Toxicology.
8rd ed. Acton: Publishing Sciences Group.

Morgan, W. K. C.; and Seaton, A. 1975. Occupational Lung
Diseases. Philadelphia: W. B. Saunders.

192


II. VINYL CHLORIDE
(B) Medical Surveillance

A program of medical surveillance shall be instituted for
each employee exposed, without regard to the use of
respirators, to vinyl chloride in excess of the action level.
The program shall provide each such employee with an
opportunity for examinations and tests in accordance with
this paragraph. All medical examinations and procedures
shall be performed by or under the supervision of a licensed
physician, and shall be provided without cost to the
employee.

(1) At the time of initial assignment, or upon institution of
medical surveillance;

(i) A general physical examination shall be
performed, with specific attention to detecting
enlargement of liver, spleen or kidneys, or dysfunc-
tion in these organs, and for abnormalities in skin,
connective tissues and the pulmonary system.

(ii) A medical history shall be taken, including the
following topics:

(A) Alcohol intake;

(B) Past history of hepatitis;

(C) Work history and past exposure to potential
hepatotoxic agents, including drugs and
chemicals;

(D) Past history of blood transfusions; and

(E) Past history of hospitalizations.

(iii) A serum specimen shall be obtained and determi-
nations made of:

(A) Total bilirubin;

(B) Alkaline phosphates;

(C) Serum glutamic oxalacetic transaminase
(SGOT);

(D) Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase
(SGPT); and

(E) Gamma glustamy] transpeptidase.

261


Pneumonitis: Inflammation of the lungs.

Polymorphonuclear: A white blood cell consisting of several
parts or lobes connected by fine strands.

Polyneuritis: A nerve inflammation involving two or more
nerves.

Porphobilinogen: A substance sometimes found in the urine of
patients with acute porphyria.

ppm: Parts of vapor or gas per million parts of air (by volume).

Preexisting Disease: A disease known to exist before the onset
of current symptoms.

Preleukemic: A condition in which a group of nondiagnostic
physical and blood abnormalities may indicate that leuke-
mia will develop later.

Presbycusis: Hearing loss due to age.

Prognosis: Prediction of the future course of a disease.

Prostration: Absolute exhaustion.

Protoporphyrin: A derivative of hemoglobin containing four
pyrrole nuclei.

Pruritis: Severe itching.
Pulmonary: Concerning or involving the lungs.

Pulmonary Hemosiderosis: A condition characterized by the
deposition of iron containing pigment in the lungs.

Purpura: Hemorrhage into the skin or mucous membranes.

Pustular: Characterized by small elevations of the skin filled
with pua.

Pyelography: X-ray examination of the renal pelvis and ureter.

Radiomimetic Substance: A substance which imitates the
biological effects of ionizing radiation.


Chlorine makers
Chlorobenzene makers
Chlorobenzene makers
Chlorodipheny] makers
Charcoal burners
Chauffeurs
Chemical products
manufacture
Chimney masons
Chimney sweepers
Cigar makers
Cinnebar ore processors
Cleaner operators,
cotton mill
Cleaner, cotton mill
Clutch disc impregnators
Clutch facing makers
Coke oven tar chaser
Coke oven workers

Combing machine operators,
cotton mill

Compositors

Construction workers

Copper cleaners

Copper refiners

Copper smelters

Cosmetics makers

Cotton bleachers

Coal miners

Coal tar refiners

Coal tar workers

Cobblers

Coke oven door cleaners,
luterman

Coke oven door machine
operators

Coke oven larry car operators

Coke oven lidmen, larrymen

Coke oven maintenance
men

Coke oven patcher

Coke oven pusher operators

Mercury

Mercury

Benzene

Benzene

Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide
Noise

Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide
Lead

Mercury

Cotton dust

Cotton dust

Benzene

Asbestos

Coke oven emissions

Benzene, coke oven emissions,
sulfur dioxide, carbon
monoxide

Cotton dust

Antimony

Silica, asbestos, noise
Nitrogen dioxide
Antimony

Arsenic, sulfur dioxide
Silica

Nitrogen dioxide
Silica

Benzene

Benzene

Benzene

Coke oven emissions

Coke oven emissions
Coke oven emissions
Coke oven emissions
Coke oven emissions

Coke oven emissions
Coke oven emissions


Nitrogen Dioxide

Introduction

Nitrogen oxides include nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, nitrogen
dioxide, nitrogen trioxide, nitrogen tetroxide, nitrogen
pentoxide, nitric acid, and nitrous acid. A thorough discussion
of the chemical] and toxic properties of each oxide can be found
in the NIOSH Criteria Document on the oxides of nitrogen’.
This chapter is concerned with the chemical agent nitrogen
dioxide (NO:) which exists in equilibrium with nitrogen
tetroxide (N2O,) at body temperature.

Exposure to nitrogen dioxide is through inhalation. There is
often only mild irritation of the upper respiratory tract,
apparently because little of the inhaled gas enters into solution
until it reaches the moist alveolar (air cell) spaces of the lungs.
Therefore, at the time of exposure, there may be little pain or
shortness of breath, and a seriously damaging dose can be
delivered to the lungs while a worker is not immediately aware
of the danger.

Depending upon the concentration and duration of exposure,
toxic reactions to nitrogen dioxide can range from mere
mucosal irritation to ghemical pneumonitis, acute pulmonary
edema (excess fluid in lung tissue), or death. There is a latent
period of from 3 to 30 hours from the time of initial exposure to
the onset of potentially fatal pu}monary (lung) symptoms.

Chronic exposure to low levels of nitrogen dioxide (5 to 20 ppm)
may result in mild irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, con-
tinued pulmonary irritation, coughing, and possible lung
damage, especially to the alveolar tissue. Chronic bronchitis
and a clinical condition in which the blood’s ability to trans-
port oxygen is reduced (methemoglobinemia) may result.

The following is a listing of common names for nitrogen

dioxide followed by a listing of occupations with potential
exposure to nitrogen dioxide:

134


unidentified chemicals in the work environment) may be
responsible for the excessive number of respiratory cancer
deaths among smelter workers.

Evidence of Exposure

Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses mechanical
filtration in series with impingement. Two previous methods
used are:

1. Continuous automatic reading instruments and
2. a series of two scrubbers (impingers).

Direct-reading detector tubes are still in use for spot sampling
and analysis.

The NIOSH approved method for air sample analysis is
titration using an indicator to determine the end point.

Previous impingement sample analysis methods also used
titration plus an indicator.

These methods for sampling and analysis are not intended to
be exclusive. However, it is recommended that other methods
be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has recommended limiting exposure to sulfur dioxide
to 5 ppm of air by volume based on an 8-hour time-weighted
average exposure. (NOTE: NIOSH has proposed a reductionin
the standard to 2 ppm based on an 8-hour time-weighted
average exposure. At this level, workers are not expected to be
adversely affected.)

175



asbestos workers ship builders

asphalt mixers ship demolition workers

automobile repair spinners (asbestos)
garage workers

brake lining makers talc miners

building demolition workers talc workers

carders (asbestos) textile flameproofers

caulking compound makers _ textile workers

caulking compound users undercoaters

clutch facing makers vinyl-asbestos tile makers

cobbers (asbestos) vinyl-asbestos tile installers

construction workers weavers (asbestos)

Medical Evaluation and Differential

Diagnosis
(Also, See Decision-Making Process)

In addition to the usual medical history, the following should
be considered:

1. Any history of diseases of the heart or lung or abnornal
tissue growth should be carefully evaluated to determine
the relationship between the previous disease and the
claimant’s present condition.

2. A respiratory questionnaire, a sample of whichis shown
in Appendix C, can be useful in evaluating the extent
and importance of respiratory symptoms such as:
—Breathlessness,

—phlegm (sputum) production,
—chest pain,

—cough, and

—wheezing.

Asbestosis

Shortness of breath upon exertion is usually the first
symptom, frequently accompanied by a dry cough. This
symptom develops after several years of progressive
pulmonary fibrosis. As asbestosis progresses, the following
signs and symptoms are observed:

—Cough with production of sputum,
~anorexia (loss of appetite),

56


Blood

—decreased hemoglobin — less than 13 gram %

—increased blood lead (PbB) — greater than 60 to 80
micrograms per deciliter

—decreased red blood count

—stippled basophilia and reticulocytosis

—increased free erythocyte protoporphyrin (FEP) and zinc
protoporphyrin (ZP or ZPP)

Urine

—increased urinary lead — greater than 0.15 milligram per
liter

—increased urinary lead after Ca-EDTA treatment —
greater than 2 milligrams in 24 hours

—increased urinary coproporphyrin (CP) — greater than
80 micrograms per 100 milligrams creatinine

—increased urinary delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) —
greater than 2.0 milligrams per 100 milligrams creati-

—increased urinary porphobilinogen — greater than 0.15
milligram per 100 milligrams creatinine

Central Nervous System
—decreased peroneal nerve conduction velocity

Epidemiology

Extensive studies have been conducted around smelters,
battery factories, soap reclaiming facilities, chemical plants
producing lead salts, and gasoline refineries. Neuropathies,
nephropathy, and blood changes are well documented. How-
ever, lead absorption does not necessarily indicate poisoning.

Feldman et al. °° reported a study of subacute low level exposure
to lead which occurred when a demolition company dismantled
an elevated train network. The old steel structure was heavily
coated with several coats of lead paint. Respirators were iri use.
Data from the report are presented in the following table.

110


Occupations with Potential Exposures

to Carbon Monoxide

acetic acid makers
airplane pilots

ammonia makers

arc welders

artificial abrasive makers
artificial gas workers
automobile users

bakers ‘
blast furnace gas users
bisque-kiln workers

blackamiths

blast furnace workers

blockers (felt hat)

boiler room workers

brass founders

brewers

brick burners

buedrivers

carbide makers

cable splicers

carbon monoxide workers

cement makers

charcoal burners

chauffeure

chimney masons

chimney sweepers

coal distillers

coke oven workers

cupola workers

diesel engine operators

compressed air workers

divers

dock workers

drier workers

firemen

enamelers

Fischer-Tropsch process
work

formaldehyde makers

foundry workers

furnace starters

furnace workers

garage mechanics

gas workers (illumination)

gasoline engine testera

gas etation attendants

heat treatera

iron workers

Kraft recovery furnace workers

laundry workers

lift truck operators (propane
and gasoline)

lime kiln workers

mercury smelters

metal oxide reducers

metal refiners

methanol makers

miners

mond process workers

monotypers

nickel refiners

nickel smelters

organic chemical synthesizers

oxalic acid makers

patent leather makers

police

producer gas workers

pottery kiln workers

sanitation workers

steel makers

sewer workers

stokers

solderers

toll collectors (highway)

traffic controllers

tunnel attendants

tunnel workers

warehouse workers

water gas workers

welders

wood distillers
zinc white makers

74




The following grading system which uses one second forced ex-
Piratory volume (FEV,) has been devised to classify ventilatory
impairment. The mean of the two highest values of FEV, is
compared to standard normal values. The acute effect of dust
exposure is measured before and after the first full workday
after a weekend. The difference between the values before and
after cotton dust exposure is utilized with the following guides:

Function (F) 0: No demonstrable acute effect of the dust on
ventilatory capacity; no evidence of chronic
ventilatory impairment; FEV, is greater than
80% of the predicted value,

Function (F) 1/2: slight acute effect of dust on ventilatory
capacity; no evidence of chronic ventilatory
impairment; FEV, is greater than 80% of the
predicted value,

Function (F) 1: definite acute effect of dust on ventilatory
capacity; no evidence of chronic ventilatory
impairment; FEV, is greater than 80% of the
predicted value, ,

Function (F) 2: evidence of a slight to moderate irreversible
impairment of ventilatory capacity; FEV, is
60 to 79% of the predicted value, and
é

Function (F) 3: evidence of a moderate to severe irreversible
impairment of ventilatory capacity; FEV; is
less than 60% of the predicted value.

(F) 0 are norma! workers without evidence of permanent venti-
latory impairment or acute response to the dust. (F) 1/2 and (F)
1 are workers who are showing an acute response to the dust but
have at present no evidence of permanent impairment of venti-
latory capacity. The more severe (F) 1 grade should be accepted
as indicating that further exposure to textile dust is likely to
cause permanent ventilatory impairment in the worker. Grades
(F) 2 and (F) 3 include those workers who have some permanent
impairment of ventilatory capacity (Bouhoys et al., 1970).

NOTE: There are no characteristic changes in chest X-ray.

92


duration of each exposure situation. (See also Evidence
of Exposure, page 11.)

Clinical Evaluation

This portion of the medical examination may vary somewhat
with the type of illness but should include at least the following:

1. Routine examination of all physiological systems—

head and neck

eyes, ears, nose, and throat
endocrine

genitourinary
musculoskeletal
neurological

Tespiratory

cardiovascular
gastrointestinal,

2. observation and evaluation of behavior related to
emotional status,

3. specific examination for health effects of suspected or
possible disease agents (seek competent medical
consultation),

4. comparison of date of onset of symptoms with
occupational history,

5. evaluation of results of any past biological or medical
monitoring (blood, urine, other sample analysis) and
previous physical examinations, and

6. evaluation of laboratory tests: routine (complete blood
count, blood chemistry profile, urinalysis) and specific
tests for suspected disease agents (e.g., blood or urine
test for specific agent, chest or other X-rays, liver
function tests, pulmonary function tests).


Medical Evaluation and Differential

Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

In the medical history, the following should be considered:
—Neurological diseases, and
—it is important to note that persons with anemia, cardio-
vascular disease, and chronic lung disease have a
decreased ability to resist the effects of carbon monoxide.

Occupational History

Potential nonoccupational sources of carbon monoxide
include:

—Air pollution (particularly in areas of high motor vehicle
use),

—cigarette smoking,

—cooking with charcoal in enclosed areas,

—burning carbon-containing materials in enclosed space,

—hobbies involved with the operation of automobiles or
gasoline engines,

—working as a volunteer fireman,

—malfunctioning stove, furnace or heater, and

—faulty auto exhaust system.

Signs and Symptoms
Acute Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

—headache

—dizziness

—nausea

—vomiting
—drownsiness

—loss of consciousness

Initially, there is lack of color in the skin (skin pallor). Later,
the skin and mucous membrane may be cherry red due to
carboxyhemoglobin formation. Breathlessness upon exertion,
rapid throbbing or fluttering of the heart (palpitation), and pain
on the surface of the chest in the heart area (precerdial pain)
may be present. Excess fluid in the lung tissues (pulmonary
edema) may also occur, or the victim may develop pneumonia.

75



Medical Evaluation and Differential

Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be considered:

—Any history of skin, genitourinary, or pulmonary disease
should be carefully evaluated to determine the relationship
between the previous disease and the claimant's present
condition, and

—a respiratory questionnaire, (Appendix C), can be useful
in evaluating respiratory symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Cancerous

Conditions
Lungs

The early signs and symptoms of lung (bronchogenic) cancer
are nonspecific and include:
—Cough
—coughing up mucous or phlegm (expectoration),
—coughing up blood (hemoptysis),
—weight loss which may not be associated with symptoms
until late in the course of the disease,
—collapsed or airless condition of a section of the lung
(atelectasis),
—wheezing respiration,
—segmental emphysema (trapping of air in a part of the
lung) or fibrosis (scar tissue formation),
—pneumonitis,
—abscess formation, and
—signs of metastasis (spreading of the cancer from one
organ to another).

Genitourinary

The signs and symptoms associated with the kidney,
bladder, and urinary tract include:
—Blood in the urine which may be intermittent (hema-
turia),
—pains between the rib and pelvis area (loin pains),
—an abdominal mass,
—weight loss, and
—fatigue.

81


Dry cleaners

Dryer operators, cotton mill
Drier workers

Dye makers

Dyers

DDT makers

Earth moving equipment
operators

Electric apparatus makers

Electric arc welders

Electrolytic copper workers

Electronic device makers

Electronic equipment makers

Electroplaters

Electrotypers
Electrical equipment
manufature
Embalmers
Embroidery workers
Emery wheel makers
Enamel burners
Enamel makers
Enamelers

Engravers
Enamellers

Engine rooms
Etchers
Ethylbenzene makers
Explosive makers

Explosives users
Exterminators
Farm workers

Farmers
Fabricated metal product

manufacture
Feather workers

Benzene

Cotton dust

Carbon monoxide

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
lead, mercury, nitrogen
dioxide, sulfur dioxide

Lead

Benzene

Noise

Mercury

Nitrogen dioxide

Arsenic

Lead

Silica

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
lead, mercury, nitrogen
dioxide

Lead

Noise

Mercury

Lead

Lead, silica

Lead

Arsenic, lead

Arsenic, benzene, lead, silica,
carbon monoxide

Benzene

Silica

Noise

Arsenic, nitrogen dioxide

Benzene

Antimony, benzene, lead,
mercury, nitrogen dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide

Arsenic, sulfur dioxide

Arsenic, lead, mercury,
nitrogen dioxide, silica

Arsenic, lead, mercury,
nitrogen dioxide, silica

Noise

Arsenic, benzene, sulfur
dioxide

225


CHAPTER I—AN APPROACH TO
DECISION-MAKING

Rationale

In the current workers’ compensation system, the end result
of the adjudicatory process is a decision that the claimant
(employee) has or has not established that he has an occupa-
tional disease, that is, a disease condition resulting from, or
aggravated by, his employment. In general, a disease is occupa-
tional if:

1. The medical findings of disease are compatible with the
effects of a disease-producing agent or agents to which
the worker has been exposed;

2. there exists in the worker’s occupational environment
(past or present) exposure to an agent or agents
sufficient to have caused the disease; and

3. the weight of evidence supports that the disease is of
occupational rather than non-occupational origin.

It would be convenient if a method could be devised which
invariably led to a correct and unequivocal descision regarding
the presence of an occupational disease. However, it is doubtful
that such a system could be developed. A case in which the
relationship of an illness to a documented agent exposure is
clearly evident is not apt to be contested or to require the
mechanism of a formal claims inquiry. The element of
judgment is minimal and decision-making is relatively simple.

On the other hand, decision-making may be extremely difficult
in many contested claims. Honest differences of opinion are
common, “facts” may be subject to different interpretations,


Kidney (renal) symptoms are:

—An abnormal amount of uric acid in the blood (hyper-
uricemia,

—inflammation (nephritis),

—the presence of glucose in the urine (glycosuria),

—an abnormal amount of amino acids in the urine
(hyperaminoaciduria), and

—progressive increase in blood urea.

Additional signs and symptoms which may be present are:
—Gum lead line (black or purplish line on gum margin),
—skin pallor (ashen gray),

—loss of weight, and
—weakness of extensor muscles (such as wrist or foot drop).

Cortical atrophy (reduction in size of brain tissue) has also been
described but this is not a common finding.

Laboratory and Clinical Examinations

Signs pertaining to lead’s effect on the blood-forming organs
(hemopoietic system) are determined by laboratory analysis.
These signs occur early with excess lead absorption — usually
before the outward symptoms of poisoning appear. These tests
are useful in the routine biological monitoring of persons
exposed to lead.

NOTE: In studies of lead excretion, satisfactory figures cannot
be obtained unless specimens of stools and urine are collected
for at least 3 days. Normal persons excrete lead in feces and
urine because lead is present in soil and therefore in vegetation
and animal food sources.

Results of blood and urine laboratory analyses for lead are
subject to a 10 to 15% error factor. The normal values for the
laboratory performing the tests should be ascertained. Blood
lead determinations must be corrected for the mass of circula-
ting red cells (hematocrit), and urinary lead determinations, for
the specific gravity of the urine.

Parameters which will be useful in the laboratory diagnosis of

lead poisoning are presented along with abnormal laboratory
values that may be found in lead poisoning:

109


Evidence of Exposure

Air Sampling and Analysis

There are a variety of direct-reading field instruments
for the evaluation of carbon monoxide in air including
Hopcalite-type carbon monoxide meters and detector tubes.
Air samples can also be collected for carbon monoxide by
techniques including adsorption on silica gel. Analysis may be
performed by calorimetric, infrared spectrophotometric, and
gas chromatographic techniques.

These methods are not intended to be exclusive, but other
methods should be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) limits carbon monoxide to 50 parts per million parts of
air by volume based on an eight-hour time-weighted average
exposure.

See Reference 29-38, Epidemiologic Data, Appendix D.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of occupational carbon monoxide exposure is
based on the following:
1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to carbon
monoxide,
2: carboxyhemoglobin in excess of 10 percent, and
3. clinical findings compatible with carbon monoxide
poisoning.

One medical researcher (Hunter, D. 1969. The Diseases of
Occupations, 4th ed. Boston: Little, Brown and Co.) states
that claims of impaired health from exposure to carbon
monoxide are unjustified unless three conditions can be
established:

1. At least a 50 percent saturation of the blood with carbon
monoxide (not carboxyhemoglobin) or evidence of
enough carbon monoxide in the air to produce it,

2. an exposure of at least three hours, and

3. continuous and complete unconsciousness for at least
six hours after return to fresh air.

19


21. Murphy, R. L. H.; et al. 1971. N. Eng. J. Med.285:1271.

22. Pennsylvania Dept. of Public Health. Unpublished
Communication.

23. Selikoff, I. J.; et al. 1968. JAMA. 204:106.

24. Selikoff, I. J.; et al. 1964. JAMA. 188:22.

Benzene

25. NIOSH. 1974. Criteria for a Recommended Exposure to
Benzene (HEW Publication No. 74-137). Cincinnati:
NIOSH.

26. Aksoy, M.; et al. 1971. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 28:296.

27. Aksoy, M.; et al. 1976. Acta haemat. 55:65.

28. Forni, A. M.; et al. 1971. Arch. Environ. Health. 23:385.

29. Hartwick, G.; and Schwanitz, G. 1972. Dtsch. Med.
Wochenechr. 97:45. German.

30. Greenberg, L. 1926. Public Health Reports. 41:1526.

31. Hardy, H. L.; and Elkins, H. B. 1948. J. Ind. Hyg. Toxicol.
30:196.

32. Juzwiak, I. 1969. Med. Przemyslowa. 20:67. Polish.

33. Pagnotto, L. D.; et al. 1961. AIHA J. 22:417,

34. Sherwood, R. J. 1972. Am. Occup. Hyg. 15:409.

Carbon Monoxide

35. NIOSH. 1972. Criteria for a Recommended Standard-
Occupational Exposure to Carbon Monoxide. Cincinnati:
NIOSH.

36. Sayers, R. R.; et al. 1929. USPHS Bull. 186. Washington:
GPO.

37. McFarland, R. A. 1944. J. Aviation Med. 15:381.

38. Halperin, M. H.; et al. 1959. J. Physiol. 146:583.

39. Horvath, S. M. 1972. Arch. Env, Health. 23:343.

40. Schulte, J. H. 1963. Arch. Env. Health. 7:524.

41, Beard, R. R.; and Wertheim, G. 1967. Am. J. Pub. Health.
57:2012.

42. Beard, R. R.; and Grandstaff, N. W. 1970. Proc. Ann. Conf.
Env. Toxic. 1:93.

43. Trouton, D.; and Eysewck, H. J. 1961. Handbook of
Abnormal Psychology. New York: Basic Books.

44. NIOSH. 1972. Criteria for a Recommended Standard-
Occupational Exposure to Carbon Monoxide. Cincinnati:
NIOSH.

186


babbitters ,

battery makers and workers
blacksmiths
bookbinders

bottle cap makers
brass founders

brass polishers
braziers

brick layers

brick makers

bronzers

brush makers

cable makers

cable splicers

canners

cartridge makers
ceramic makers
farmers

file cutters

firemen

flower makers, artificial
foundry workers
galvanizers

garage mechanics
glass makers

glass polishers
glost-kiln workers

gold refiners

gun barrel browners
imitation pearl makers
incandescent lamp makers
ink makers

insecticide makers
insecticide users
japan makers
japanners

jewelers

junk metal refiners
labelers, paint can
lacquer makers

lead burners

lead counterweight makers
lead flooring makers
lead foil makers

lead mill workers

crop dusters

cutlery makers
decorators, pottery
demolition workers
dental technicians
diamond polishers

dye makers

dyers

electronic device makers
electroplaters
electrotypers
embroidery workers
emery wheel makers
enamel burners

enamel makers
enamelers,

explosives makers
mordanters

musical instrument makers
nitric acid workers
nitroglycerin makers
nuclear reactor workers
nuclear technologists
paint makers

paint pigment makers
painters

paper hangers

patent leather makers
pearl makers, imitation
pharmaceutical makers
photography workers
pipefitters

plastic workers
plumbers

policemen

pottery glaze dippers
pottery glaze mixers
pottery workers
printers

putty makers
pyroxylin-plastics workers
Tiveters

roofers

rubber buffers

rubber makers

105



A worker having a positive history for any or all of the aboveis
at increased risk from occupational exposure to cotton dust.

A respiratory questionnaire, such as that in the NIOSH
Criteria Document on cotton dust, can be useful in evaluating
the extent and importance of the following respiratory
symptoms:

—Breathlessness,

—sputum production,

—chest pain,

—cough, and

—wheezing.

Signs and Symptoms

These may be shown as soon as after a few hours of. ‘exposure
or may even first appear as long as after 10 years of exposure to
cotton, hemp, or flax dust.

The following clinical grading (or staging) system has been
devised to classify the degree of byssinosis according to
symptomatology:

Grade 1/2: Occasional chest tightness on the first
day of the working week.

Grade I: Chest tightness and/or difficulty in
breathing on every first day of the
working week.

Grade IT: Chest tightness and difficulty in
breathing on the first and on other days
of the working week.

Grade III: Grade II symptoms, accompanied by
permanent (irreversible) pulmonary
incapacity (i.e., chronic respiratory
symptoms and decreased ventilatory
capacity not relieved by appropriate
drugs).

Although early symptoms of byssinosis are reversible if

exposure to cotton dust ceases, a point is reached where
permanent, irreversible airway obstruction persists.

90



adhesive workers plastic foam makers

aircraft burners plasticizer workers
foundry workers (coremaking) polyurethane foam makers
insulation workers polyurethane foam users
isocyanate resin workers polyurethane sprayers
lacquer workers ship burners

mine tunnel coaters
ship welders

spray painters
textile processors
TDI workers
upholstery makers
wire coating workers

Medical Evaluation and Differential
Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

In the Medical History, the following should be considered:

1. Persons with any history of the following are at in-
creased risk from inhalation of toluene diisocyanate:
—Cigarette smoking
—respiratory allergy
—chronic obstructive lung disease
—chronic bronchitis
—emphysema
—cardiopulmonary disease

2. arespiratory questionnaire, such as that in Appendix C,
can be useful in evaluating the extent andimportance of
respiratory symptoms, such as:

—Breathlessness,
sputum production,
—chest pain,
—cough, and
—wheezing-.

As part of the Occupational History, the results of any pre-
employment and/or periodic lung function tests, as well as
blood count and chemistry tests, should be evaluated.

178


There is a report of a study of 12 workers in an automobile plant
making polyurethane foam crashpads.'' For the first 3 weeks
the workers were exposed to air concentrations of TDI not
exceeding 0.01 ppm. The next week, air concentrations of TDI
rose to 0.03-0.07 ppm. At the latter exposure, all workers
complained of respiratory symptoms including coryzal
symptoms, continuous coughing, sore throat, dyspnea, fatigue,
and night sweats. Subsequently, air concentration of TDI were
reduced to 0.01-0.03 ppm. For the next 3'4 months there were no
further respiratory symptoms or complaints, and none of the
workers appeared to have any permanent effects or became
sensitized from the exposure.

Walworth and Virchow''' report a study of workers’ health for
24 years in a polyurethane foam plant producing slabs. The
average values of air concentrations of TDI were given as a
range of 0.00-2.6 ppm with a time-weighted average level
estimated in the range of 0.00-0.15 ppm (monthly). 83 workers
developed illnesses attributed to TDI. 54 showed upper
respiratory infection, 11 had tracheitis, 9 had bronchitis, and 9
had bronchial asthma. Most illnesses, it was reported, started
between the third and fourth week of exposure. The report
indicates evidence of sensitization.

Elkins'!? published a report on a 5-year study of TDI exposure
in 14 plants. The author concluded that 0.01 ppm for TDI was
“a not unreasonable limit.” Elkin’s data is summarized in the
table found on page 183.

Glass and Thom!" report a study in 3 plants in New Zealand.
In one plant where polyurethane foam was produced in a batch
molding process, atmospheric TDI concentrations ranged from
0.003-0.0123 ppm and 3 cases of respiratory sensitization were
reported in one year. In the second plant (similar to the first),
TDI concentrations in air ranged from 0.005-0.100 ppm and two
mild cases of coryzal symptoms, one case of possible
sensitization, and one case of acute asthma attack on heavy
exposure (with no evidence of sensitization) were reported. In
the third plant, polyurthane foam was produced in the
continuous slab process. Air concentrations of TDI ranged
from 0.000-0.018 ppm in the third plant. Two cases of mild
coryzal symptoms with no evidence of sensitization were
teported (the men experiencing these symptoms wore canister-
type respiratory protection).

181


With mesothelioma of the pleura, complaints include chest
pain and breathlessness. Signs and symptoms of pleural
mesothelioma include:
—Pleural effusion (accumulation of fluid in the space
around the lungs),
—the tumor may grow outward through the chest wall in
the form of a lump beneath the skin (subcutaneous lump),
—the tumor may spread to involve bone, lymph glands
(nodes), mediastinum (area between the right and left
lungs), and pericardium (the sac enclosing the heart). As
a result, the supraclavicular nodes may become
enlarged, ribs may develop tumors, and obstruction of
the superior vena cava (major vein draining the upper
portion of the body) may occur, and
—ain addition, pericardial effusion (fluid in the heart cavity)
may occur, causing tamponade (acute compression
of the heart).

Laboratory and Clinical Examinations
(See Decision-Making Process)

Additional data which will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

Chest X-rays

Findings should be classified according to the ILO/UC 1971
Classification of the Radiographs of the Pneumoconioses.

Findings for asbestosis vary, but the usual picture shows a
density in both lungs, with the lower one-third of the lungs
involved. In the affected area there is a “ground glass”
appearance.

As asbestosis progresses, more and more of the lung isinvolved,
except the apices (tips of the lungs). The X-rays will show
gradual obscuring of the border between the lungs and the
diaphram. It may show shadows from the presence of nodules.

X-ray findings usually will show the following as the asbestosis
progresses:
—Reduced radiographic volume and
—formation of cysts combined with increased size of the
heart, dilation (enlargement) of the proximal pulmonary
arteries (arteries which lead from the heart to the lungs).

58


Asbestos

Introduction

Asbestos is a mineral fiber, and is the name given to about
thirty silicate compounds. Of these, only the following 5 are of
significance in industry:

Chrysotile (white asbestos) Crocidolite (blue asbestos)
Amosite Anthophyllite
Tremolite

Chrysotile accounts for about.97 percent of all the asbestos used
in this country.

Asbestos is widespread in the environment because of its exten-
sive use in industry and the home. Over 3,000 products contain
asbestos.

Because of this wide usage, it may be difficult at times to deter-
mine if a disease arising from asbestos is occupational in
origin. For example, the air of some relatively new apartment
buildings has been found to contain more asbestos fibers than
the maximum recommended levels in industry. The source of
the fibers in the apartment buildings is the insulating
materials used in the ventilation system.

Exposure to asbestos can produce a lung fibrosis called
asbestosis. The onset of asbestosis is usually gradual,
developing over a period of 10 to 30 years of exposure to
significant concentrations of asbestos. Occasionally, from
very massive exposures, it may develop more quickly.

Asbestos is also a cancer producing agent (bronchogenic
carcinoma, mesothelioma) and can cause certain specific skin
diseases (asbestotic subcutaneous granuloatosis and asbesto-
tic cutaneous verruc a). Heavy exposure to dust containing
asbestos can cause skin irritation. Epidemiologic studies
{experience with groups of people) and animal studies have
shown that increased exposure to any of the types of asbestos
increases the risk of lung cancer (bronchial carcinoma). This
carcinoma appears to be related to the degree of exposure to
asbestos, the type of asbestos, and cigarette smoking. It is also

54


those environmental (occupational) exposures—mechanical,
chemical, physical, or biologic—which may occur at work or in
the nonworking environment, as candidates for discussion of
the “cause” of an aggravated disease or condition.

This consideration appears to lead to a very straightforward
decision-making scheme to weigh the “percent contribution” of
various factors in a specific case with the aim of awarding
compensation on a contributory basis. Unfortunately, no such
single approach is feasible.

Aggravation cases frequently have multiple causes, not all of
which are known, and most of which are poorly understood.
The table on page 17 lists some agents which may contribute
to disease and aggravation of disease.

A problem with aggravation of chronic diseases is that there
are many parameters involved. The causes, courses, and
eventual outcome of these diseases are usually unknown and
poorly understood. As chronic diseases progress, they may ex-
hibit irregular periods of worsening and of improvement. This
factor confounds the role of an aggravating agent, and it is
therefore necessary to medically monitor these employees over
several of the cycles of improvement-worsening. Furthermore,
the time of life when symptoms of chronic disease develop often
contributes to the complexity of the problem, since both the
degenerative processes of aging and the appearance of chronic
diseases are associated with the middle years.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a disease that is almost universally present in the
older age group. Arthritis can cause effects that range from
nuisance aches to severe incapacity. Certain abbatoir workers
are required to work in damp, cold conditions. Over the years,
some of these workers develop a disabling form of arthritis, but
some escape it entirely. Are the work conditions responsible for
the disabling arthritis? The courts have most often held that
they are, but since the cause of arthritis is unknown, these
decisions are based on adjudicatory and administrative
rulings supported by medical testimony.

16


Polyurethane foam
makers

Polyurethane foam users

Polyurethane sprayers

Ore smelters

Ore smelting workers

Organic chemical
synthesizers

Organic sulfonate makers
Ordnance manufacturing
Oxalic acid makers

Oxidized cellulose
compound makers
Paint makers

Paint mixers
Paint pigment makers
Painters

Paper hangers
Paper makers

Paraffin processors

Patent leather makers
Painters

Paper manufacture

Paper products manufacture
Pearl makers, imitation
Pencil makers

Percussion cap makers
Perfume makers

Pesticide workers
Petrochemical workers
Petroleum refinery workers
Pewter workers

Petroleum refinery workers
Petroleum refining
Pharmaceutical workers

Phenol makers
Phosphor makers

Tol. diisocyanate

Tol. diisocyanate

Tol. diisocyanate

Arsenic, lead

Sulfur dioxide

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
nitrogen dioxide, carbon
monoxide, tol. diisocyanate
Sulfur dioxide

Noise

Nitrogen dioxide, carbon
monoxide

Nitrogen dioxide

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,

lead, mercury, sulfur dioxide,

asbestos

Silica

Lead

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
lead

Arsenic, lead

Arsenic, mercury, sulfur

dioxide

Benzene

Lead, carbon monoxide

Antimony, arsenic

Noise

Noise

Lead

Benzene

Mercury

Antimony, benzene

Mercury

Benzene

Arsenic, benzene, sulfur dioxide

Antimony, lead

Benzene

Noise

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,

mercury, nitrogen dioxide,

silica, sulfur dioxide

Benzene

Antimony

233



candle (colored) makers

canners

carpet makers

carroters, felt hat

cattle dip workers

ceramic makers

ceramic enamel workers

commercial artists

copper smelters

crop dusters

defoliant applicators

defoliant makers

dimethyl] sulfate makers

disinfectant makers

drug makers

dye makers

metal cleaners

metal refiners

miners

mordantersa

nitrocellulose makers

ore smelters

organic chemical synthesizers

paint makers

painters

paper hangers

paper makers

petroleum refinery workers

pharmaceutical makers

pigment makers

plastic workers

plumbers

preservative makers

printing ink workers

Pyrotechnics workers

rayon makers

rodenticide makers

sealing wax makers

semiconductor compound
makers

sheep dip workers

sign painters

silver refiners

gold refiners

hair remover makers
herbicide makers
hide preservers

ice makers
illuminating gas workers
ink makers
insecticide makers
japan makers
Japanners

jewelers

lead burners

lead shot makers
lead smelters

leather workers

lime burners

soda makers

soil sterilizer makers
solderers

submarine workers
sulfuric acid workers
tanners

tar workers
taxidermists

textile printers
tinners

tree sprayers

type metal workers
varnish makers

vine dressers
wallpaper printers
warfare gas makers
water weed controllers
weed sprayers

wine makers

wire drawers

wood preservative makers
wood preservers

zinc chloride makers

zinc miners
zinc refiners

45


In chronic arsenic poisoning, the liver may be involved resulting
in:

—Enlargement of the liver (hepatomegaly),

—excessive accumulation of serous fluids in the abdominal
(peritoneal) cavity, and

—cirrhosis (liver fibrosis).

Perforation of the nasal septum (the cartilage separating the
nostrils) is common in workers chronically exposed to arsenic.

Persons exposed to chronic arsenic absorption have been re-
ported to develop carcinoma of the lung, larynx, and viscera
(the abdominal organs) as well as skin. However, the relation-
ship of arsenic to nondermal cancer is much more of an open
issue.

Laboratory and Clinical Examinations

Additional tests which will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

—Electrocardiographic abnormalities which indicate a
direct toxic effect,

—liver function studies may indicate liver cell injury,

—decreased white blood cell count,

—decreased red blood cell count (anemia),

—basophilic stippling of the red blood cells,

—chest X-ray may reveal lung cancer, and

—pulmonary function may be decreased.

The normal range of urinary arsenic levels is less than 0.1
milligram of arsenic per liter in 24-hour specimens. Levels
greater than 0.2 milligram of arsenic per liter suggest exposure
to limits greater than those stated on page 52. However,
acquired tolerance may allow levels greater than 0.2 milligram
of arsenic per liter without evidence of arsenic poisoning.
Conversely, persons with urine arsenic levels less than 0.2
milligram of arsenic per liter may in fact have arsenic poison-
ing. An additional test that will aid in arriving at a correct
diagnosis is a bioassay of nails. For fingernails, maximum
arsenic levels are 0.82 to 3.5 parts per million (ppm), and for
toenails, 0.52 to 5.6 ppm.

49


APPENDIX F
SAMPLE OSHA REGULATIONS
FOR MANDATORY PHYSICAL
EXAMINATIONS AND MEDICAL
AND BIOLOGICAL MONITORING

MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE
I. Asbestos
(A) Medical Examinations

(1) General
The employer shall provide or make available at his
cost, medical examinations relative to exposure to
asbestos required by this paragraph.

(2) Preplacement

The employer shall provide or make available to each of
his employees, within 30 calendar days following his
first employment in an occupation exposed to airborne
concentrations of asbestos fibers, a comprehensive
medical examination, which shall include, as a
minimum, a chest roentgenogram (posterior-anterior
14 X 17 inches), a history to elicit symptomatology of
respiratory disease, and pulmonary function tests to
include forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced
expiratory volume at 1 second (FEVi.).

(3) Annual examinations

On or before January 31, 1973, and at least annually
thereafter, every employer shall provide, or make
available, comprehensive medical examinations to
each of his employees engaged in occupations exposed
to airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers. Such
annual examination shall include, as a minimum, a
chest roentgenogram (posterior-anterior 14 X 17inches),
a history to elicit symptomatology of respiratory
disease, and pulmonary function tests to include forced
vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume at 1
second (FEV\.0).


TIME FOR VARIOUS CONCENTRATIONS OF
CARBON MONOXIDE TO PRODUCE 80%
EQUILIBRIUM VALUE OF BLOOD SATURATION

BLOOD
SATURATION %
COIN AIR (80% of Approx. TIME
ppm Equil. Values) (Hours)
200-300 23-30 5-6
400-600 36-44 4-5
700-1,000 47-53 3-4
1,100-1,500 55-60 1%-3
1,600-2,000 61-64 1-1%
2,100-3,000 64-68 YM
3,100-5,000 68-73 20-30 Min.
5,000-10,000 73-76 2-15 Min.

There have been a number of reports showing evidence of
behavioral effects in man on exposure to low levels of CO. The
results of these studies indicate that exposure to low concen-
trations of CO could affect a worker's ability to work safely.
McFarland* reported difficulties in visual discrimination at
5% COHb (similar results were reported by Halperin“).
Horvath*®® reported significantly impaired vigilance at 6.6%
COHb. Schulte‘® indicated various physiological and
behavioral tests were effected by COHb levels as low as 5%.
Beard‘'*? in two reports showed exposure to CO in concen-
trations ranging from 50-250 ppm caused a deterioration in the
ability to discriminate auditory stimuli and exposures to 50
ppm caused impairment in time discrimination. Trouton®
reported impairment in muscle limb coordination at COHb
levels of approximately 5%. There have been a number of
studies made relating carbon monoxide exposures to cardio-
vascular ramifications. NIOSH“ concludes that the results of
these studies provide sufficient evidence so that “based on
cardiovascular alterations which could prove to be of severe
physiological consequences for persons with CHD (coronary
heart disease), a significant portion of who are in the worker
population, it seems advisable that levels of COHb (carboxy-
hemoglobin) in excess of 5% should be avoided.”

78


3 18 days Fatigue, dyspnea
Irritating cough
Temperature
Suffocation
18 days
hospitalization

4 4 days Temperature
Bronchitis and cough
Moderate dyspnea
a few days
sick at home

5 2-1/2 days Sanguinolent sputum
Feeling of suffocation
Acute dyspnea
39 days
hospitalization

6 none none

7 14 hours Pressure in chest
Vomiting
Dyspnea
1 week sick
at home

(Muller, 1969)

NOTE: Case 2 became gradually short of breath but never was
seriously sick. Case 6 had neither a latent period nor
bridging symptoms, although he had respiratory
symptoms for about 6 months.

The following report of a dose-response relationship in quotes
has been taken from the National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health:*°

140


value. The NIOSH recommended standard is 0.05 milligram
of mercury per cubic meter of air as an 8-hour time-weighted
average.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of occupational mercury poisoning is based on the
following:
1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to mercury,
2. mercury in the blood and urine (level may not correlate
well with the severity of disease), and
3. clinical findings compatible with mercury poisoning.

NOTE: Hunter states that a high urinary excretion of mercury

is of diagnostic significance only when the signs and
symptoms of mercury poisoning can be demonstrated.

133



CHAPTER IV — EVIDENCE
OF EXPOSURE

Having heard evidence that establishes the medical condi-
tion of the claimant and its compatibility with known health
effects of the suspected agent, and epidemiologic information
about human populations with similar exposure histories, the
examiner must consider evidence of exposure of the claimant to
the suspected agent. Generally, occupational data will be
presented for each relevant job or duty. The following informa-
tion would be helpful:

1. Identification of the substances handled or used directly
in operations in the area or in nearby areas;

2. any information from industrial hygiene studies,
especially air sampling data, that indicate magnitude of
worker exposure for the job or similar jobs (see specific
guides);

3. data to be accumulated for work exposure evaluation:
a. inhalation exposure information—expert testimony

should be obtained concerning general environmen-

tal conditions, especially when there are no
industrial hygiene studies available as evidence.

Such testimony should include reference to at least:

(1) Establishing the precise chemical or physical
form of the agent (name the~chemical; specify
type of dust);

(2) a complete description of the operation as
performed by the worker including materials
handling practices, accessory equipment,
operating procedures, and protective equipment;

(3) information on the particle size of the agent (for
dusts) generated by the operation;

11



Common Names

dinitrogen tetroxide
liquid dioxide
nitrito

nitro

nitrogen oxide
nitrogen peroxide
nitrogen tetroxide

Occupations with Potential Exposures to Nitrogen

Dioxide

acid dippers

aniline makers

arsenic acid makers
artificial leather makers
braziers

bright dip workers
bronze cleaners
celluloid makers

copper cleaners

cotton bleachers

dental workers

diesel equipment operators
dye makers
electroplaters

electric arc welders
etchers

explosive makers
explosive users
farm workers
fertilizer makers
firemen

flour bleachers
food bleachers
gas shrinking operators
gas welders
glass blowers
heat treaters

jet fuel makers
jewelry makers
lacquer makers
lithographers

auto garage workers

auto painters

blueprinters

brass cleaners

medical technicians

metal cleaners

mine workers

nitrate workers

nitric acid workers

nitrite workers

nitrogen dioxide workers

nitrous acid workers

nurses

organic chemical synthesizers

oxalic acid makers

oxidized cellulose compound
makers

pharmaceutical makers

phosphoric acid makers

photoengravers

phthalic acid makers

physicians

picklers

pipe fitters

plasma torch operators

raw silk bleachers

rocket fuel makers

silo fillers

sulfuric acid makers

textile (rayon) bleachers

tunnel workers

welders

135


not yet been demonstrated. In the absence of a demonstrated
safe level, OSHA will not assume that one exists because of the
irreversibility and long latency period for lung cancer.

Conclusion

Diagnostic criteria for occupational arsenic poisoning are
based on meeting the following:

1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to arsenicor
one or more of its compounds,

2. clinical findings compatible with arsenic poisoning,
ani

3. analysis of urine (or nails) for arsenic is of value in con-
firming exposure but is not diagnostic in itself.

53


ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We wish to express appreciation to the following members
of the advisory committee for their contributions during this
program:

Gabriel H. Blumenthal
Workmen's Compensation Attorney
Florida

Elmer O. Friday, Jr.

Chairman

Florida Industrial Relations Commission
Florida

James E. Harlow
Senior Safety Engineer
The Bendix Corporation
Florida

Marge Lehner

Claims Adjuster

Underwriting Adjusting Company
Florida

Bart F. O’Brien
Assistant Vice President
Johnson & Higgins
Michigan

Norma J. Wagner
Workmen's Compensation Judge
Florida

Austin F. Henschel, Ph.D.; Lorice Ede; and Jim Carpenter of
the Division of Technical Services, NIOSH, contributed
substantially to reviewing, editing, and preparing the
manuscript for publication.


—corneal opacification which may result in partial
or complete loss of vision, depending upon the
severity of exposure.

Chronic Exposure

Symptoms which will be experienced initially include:
—Upper respiratory tract irritation,
—cough,
—nose bleeds (epistaxis),
—chest tightness, and
—expectoration of blood (hemotysis).

After customary or continued exposure, the following can be
observed:

—Hacking cough,

—morning cough,

—nasal irritation,

—nasal discharge,

—expectoration,

—chronic irritation of the nose and throat (nasopharyn-

gitis),

—alteration in senses of smell and taste,

—increased sensitivity to other irritants,

—fatigue,

—labored or difficult breathing (dyspnea) on exertion, and

—prolongation of common colds.

Laboratory and Clinical Examinations

Additional data that will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

Urine
—increased acidity due to increased excretion of sulfate

Pulmonary Function
—increased airway resistance
—decreased maximum expiration flow
—decreased 1 second forced expiratory volume (FEV,)
—decreased forced vital capacity (FVC)
—decreased specific airway conduction
—increase in respiratory and pulse rates
—decreased tidal volume

172


Taylor, G.; et al. 1971. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 28:143.
Tuma, J; et al. 1973. J. Occup. Med. 15:409.

Inorganic Lead

Benson, G. I.; et al. 1976. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 33:29.

Browning, E. 1969. Toxicity of Industrial Metals. 2nd ed. New
York: Appleton-Century-Crofts.

Casarett, L. J.; and Doull, J. eds. 1975. The Basic Science of
Poisons. New York: MacMillan Publishing co., Inc.

Goldwater, L. J.; and Hoover, A. W. 1967. Arch. Environ.
Health. 15:60.

Hammond, P. B. 1969. Essays Toxicol. 1:116.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Key, M. M.,; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases—A Guide
to Their Recognition. Washington:U.S. Government Printing
Office.

NIOSH. 1972. Criteria for a Recommended Standard—Occupa-
tional Exposure to Inorganic Lead. Cincinnati: NIOSH.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, S341 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Sax, N, I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Schroeder, H. A. 1974. The Poisons Around Us. Bloomington:
Indiana University Press.

Inorganic Mercury

Clarkson, T. W. 1972. Crit. Rev. Toxicol. 1:203.

Daum, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1973. Work is Dangerous to
Your Health. New York: Random House.

196


APPENDIX D

OCCUPATIONS

AND SELECTED

POTENTIAL EXPOSURES

Occupation Agent(s)
Abrasive blasters Silica
Abrasive makers Silica

Abrasion resistant
rubber makers
Acetylene workers
Acid dippers
Acid finishers
Actors
Acetic acid makers
Acoustical product makers
Acoustical product installers
Adhesive makers
Adhesive workers
Agriculture
Airplane dope makers
Air filter makers
Aircraft burners
Airplane pilots
Alcohol workers
Alkali-salt makers
Alloy makers
Amalgam makers
Ammonia makers
Aniline color makers
Aniline makers
Aniline workers
Antimony ore smelters
Antimony workers
Aniline makers
Aniline color makers
Arsenic acid makers
Arsenic workers
Art glass workers

Tol, diisocyanate

Arsenic

Arsenic nitrogen dioxide
Lead

Lead

Carbon monoxide
Asbestos

Asbestos

Benzene

Tol, diisocyanate

Lead, silica

Benzene

Asbestos

Tol, diisocyanate
Carbon monoxide
Benzene

Sulfur dioxide

Arsenic

Mercury

Carbon monoxide
Arsenic

Benzene, nitrogen dioxide
Arsenic

Antimony

Antimony

Benzene nitrogen dioxide
Arsenic

Arsenic, nitrogen dioxide
Arsenic

Benzene

219


Laboratory and Clinical Examinations

Additional data that will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

Pulmonary Function

—reduced forced vital capacity (FVC)

—decreased 1 second forced expiratory volume (FEV,)
—reduced diffusing capacity

—reduced maximal breathing capacity

NOTE: These test results indicate impairment of lung function;
there are no lung function tests which specifically assay for
silica.

Pulmonary impairment including oxygen desaturation on
exercise progresses rapidly in complicated silicosis. Associated
chronic bronchitis may be a key factor in the decreased
pulmonary function.

Chest X-Ray

The following classifications are used in charting the
possible progression of silicosis:

—Simple silicosis: multiple opacities of various sizes and
densities (from less than 1.5 to 10 millimeters) may be
diffused over the entire lung field; the opacities may be
calcified. Hilar nodes may develop “egg shell” calcifica-
tion.

—Complicated silicosis: conglomerate masses are greater
than 1 centimeter in diameter and are usually found in
upper and middle zone. Large sausage-shaped masses
which may be surrounded by emphysematous bullae
may appear in advanced cases.

—Caplan’s syndrome: occurs when larger nodules appear
against the background of simple silicosis; rheumatoid
disease may be associated.

Radiographs should be classified by the ILO U/C scheme.

161


the workers had reduced hemoglobin levels but only 8.5% had
reduced white blood cell counts.” Environmental data were
inadequately documented, so it is difficult to correlate
medical findings with the airbqrne exposures in this study.

In a report of an 1) plant study of 162 workers in the rubber
coating industry, Pagnotto et al.37 concluded that the urinary
phenol determination test provides a “good index of benzene
exposure.” The following table from NIOSH presents air-
urinary correlation data:
URINARY PHENOL LEVELS WITH
CORRESPONDING EQUIVALENT ENVIRONMENTAL
BENZENE EXPOSURE LEVELS

Urine Approx. Av. Equiv.
Phenol Benzene Air Level
{milligrams per liter) (ppm)
100 10
120 13
140 16
160 19
180 22
200 25
220 27
240 29
260 31
280 33
300 35
320 38
340 41
360 44
380 47
400 50
420 53
440 56
460 59
480 62
500 65
520 68
540 a
560 74
580 7
600 80

(NIOSH, 1974)

70


CHAPTER VII — CONCLUSIONS

Evidence presented by qualified professionals according to
the method described in the preceding chapters will generally
be sufficient for the hearing examiner to answer the following
questions to his satisfaction:

1. Has a disease condition been clearly established?

2. Has it been shown that the disease can result from the
suspected agent(s)?

3. Has exposure to the agent been demonstrated? (by work
history, sampling data, expert opinion?)

4, Has exposure to the agent been shown to be of sufficient
degree and/or duration to result in the disease condi-
tion? (by scientific literature, epidemiologic studies,
special sampling, replication of work conditions?)

5. Has nonoccupational exposure to the agent been ruled
out as a causative factor?

6. Have all special circumstances been weighed?
Occasionally, special circumstances must be considered. Were
there any ‘unusual events at work that reduced the effectiveness
of protective equipment? Of ventilation? Of safe work
practices? If the employee is a woman, are there special risks to
women from exposure to the agent? If so, this factor must be
evaluated.

7. Has the burden of proof been met—did the evidence
prove that the disease resulted from, or was aggravated
by, conditions at work?

If the answer to all of the above is “Yes,” the decision can be
made that the disease is occupational in origin.

25


—increased plasma bilirubin (orange-colored or yellowish
pigment in bile)

—hemosiderosis of the liver, spleen, kidneys, or bone
marrow (a condition characterized by the deposition of
an iron-containing pigment in these sites)

—the bone marrow may have reduced capacity to produce
blood cells (hypoplasia), this may be seen in persons with
short: or long-term exposure to benzene and is more
common in females

—the bone marrow may have increased capacity to
produce blood cells (hyperplasia); this may be seen in
persons with long-term exposure and is more common in
males

—chromosome aberrations in peripheral and bone marrow
cells occur and may persist after exposure.

Urine

—increased urobilinogen

—increased phenol — less than 75 milligrams per liter ia
normal

—ratio of inorganic to total sulfatea—normal limitsare0: 05
to 0.1 milligram per liter. NOTE: Sample must be
collected and test begun within one hour after workday
exposure. .

In workers exposed to benzene, hematologic tests should be
conducted monthly, while urine sulfate testa should be
conducted every week. Liver and kidney function studies
should also be evaluated.

Epidemiology

The relationship between benzene and the blood-forming
tissues of the body has been demonstrated in many epidemio-
logic studies. However, the National Institute for Occupa-
tional Safety and Health has reported that “symptomatic
effects associated with benzene poisoning often do not correlate
with objective findings. Even in serious cases of chronic
benzene poisoning, symptomatic effects may be completely
absent.”'® For this reason, a dose-response relationship has not
been established. These facts should be considered when
referring to the following material. Sections in quote are from
NIOSH:*


Evidence of Exposure

Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses a solid
sorbent tube (packed column). Two previous methods used are:
1. A commercially available field kit and
2. impingement.

Direct-reading indicator tubes are still in use for spot sampling
and analysis.

The NIOSH approved method for air sample analysis uses gas
chromatography. Three methods previously used are:
1..Alpha-naphthylamine-nitrate spectrophotometry
analysis for the field kit method,
2. colorimetric intensity measurement, and
3. phenol-disulfonic method.

The methods are not intended to be exclusive but other methods
should be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has adopted standards that limit exposure to nitrogen
dioxide to 5 ppm (or 9 milligrams per cubic meter) of air by
volume, based on an 8-hour time-weighted average exposure.
(NOTE: A reduction in the standard to 1 ppm as a ceiling value
has been proposed by NIOSH to prevent acute irritant effects
in the lungs of workers exposed to nitrogen dioxide. In addition,
the prevention of repeated acute episodes of irritancy should
lessen the risk of developing chronic obstructive lung disease.)

The American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists recommends an exposure limit to nitrogen dioxide
of 5 ppm (or 9 milligrams per cubic meter) expressed as a
Ceiling Limit which should never be exceeded.

Conclusion
There are no specific tests for diagnosing nitrogen dioxide

poisoning. Diagnostic criteria for occupational nitrogen
dioxide poisoning are based on meeting the following:

144


The Pennsylvania Department of Health”? reported a study of
asbestos dust concentrations in two plants (one from
1930-1967 and the other from 1948-1968). Sixty-four cases of
asbestosis were reported. In the two plants, the study indicates
that the air concentrations of particulates were generally less
than five mppcf and in many cases less than two mppcf.

Epidemiologic evidence is also available rrelating the
development of mesothelioma with exposure to asbestos.
Selikoff ?°* reported 14 deaths from mesothelioma in 532
asbestos insulation workers from 1943-1968. No deaths from
mesothelioma would be expected from the same number of
individuals in the general population.

Evidence of Exposure

Historically, there have been two air sampling and analysis
methods to determine the quantity of asbestos in the workplace
environment. The earlier light field impinger count method
allowed only a measure of the overall dust level in the air rather
than focusing on the amount of asbestos fibers in the air. The
current fiber count method satisfactorily determines the
amount of asbestos fibers in the air. It is performed by
collecting airborne materials on a membrane filter and then
counting the fibers using a phase contrast microscope at a 400
to 450 times magnification ratio (400X-450X).

Asbestos fibers occur in varying lengths and diameters. As of
the publication of the guide, the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) establishes maximum allow-
able limits for asbestos fibers greater than five micrometers
(um) in length. OSHA limits such asbestos fibers to no more
than 2 fibers per cubic centimeter of air (based on an eight-
hour time-weighted average exposure).

OSHA further requires that no workers be exposed to more than
10 asbestos fibers (greater than five um in length) during any
one 15-minute period of time.

For samples collected by the field impinger count method,

results may be compared to the pre-1970 limit (TLV) of five
million particles per cubic foot of air.

61


Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease, which may lead to a heart attack, is
one of the most frequent “preexisting conditions” cited as
being aggravated by work. There are those who feel that heart
attacks should never be compensable and, since they have
such complicated etiology (causation), that they should be re-
moved from the compensation system. (National Commission
on Workmen’s Compensation Laws, 1973. Compendium on
Workmen's Compensation. Washington: GPO.)

In addition to the commonly accepted factors such as age,
smoking, diet, heredity, etc., there are some chemicals that
have profound effects on the heart and cardiovascular system.
Aniline and nitrobenzene are myocardial (heart muscle) de-
pressants. Ethylene, chloroform, and trichloroethylene are
myocardial irritants. The azides produce severe vasodilation.
Carbon disulfide induces atherosclerosis.

Carbon monoxide, cyanide, and certain insecticides can have
damaging effects on individuals with impaired cardiac function
or reduced cardiac reserve. Pulmonary irritants such as
ammonia, chlorine, phosgene, and sulfur. dioxide can be quite
hazardous to the person with heart impairment. Silicosis,
asbestos, and other pneumoconioses may result in right heart
failure (cor pulmonale). Heat, cold, and electrical shock can
seriously affect the impaired heart.

Heart attacks seem to occur at a lower rate in workers than in
the population at large. This may result, in part, from the fact
that the American worker is “selected,” that is, he often
receives a preplacement medical examination to place him ina
job that is compatible with his health and physical abilities. He
may also receive periodic follow-up examinations at work to
monitor his health.

One researcher (Paffenberger, the American Journal of Epi-
demiology) studied longshoremen. Those performing heavy
work had a lower rate of sudden death than workers doing light
work, suggesting that perhaps heavy work may help to prevent
sudden deaths from coronary artery disease rather than to
cause them. These conclusions have been confirmed by many
other studies.

18


Antimony and its compounds are generally regarded as
primary skin irritants. Lesions usually appear on exposed,
moist area of the body but rarely on the face. Skin disorders
include:
—Sores resembling chickenpox (pustular, covered with a
crust),
—blistering of the lips,
—perforation of the nasal septum (cartilage separating the
nostrils), and
—nodular ulcers on the neck and/or moist areas of the
body, e.g., axilla or groin.

Other symptoms of chronic poisoning are:

—Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis),

—inflammation of the mouth (stomatitis),

—inflammation of the membrane that lines the eyelids and
the front of the eyeball (conjunctivitis),

—inflammation of the cornea (keratitis),

—constipation,

—joint pains (arthralgia), and

—possible diseases of the skeletal, voluntary, or cardiac
muscles.

Either liver or kidney failure or both can occur in the late stages
of the disease, and death may result.

Laboratory and Clinical Evaluations

Additional data which will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

Blood

—antimony level above 6.0 milligrams per deciliter

—white blood count may show a shift to the left (a prepon-
derance of less mature white cells)

Urine

—antimony level above 1.0 milligram per liter

Liver ,

—liver function studies may reveal hepatic injury

Electrocardiogram

—acute poisoning may induce ST and T wave changes,
auricular fibrillation, and possibly ventricular arrhy-
thmias

Chest X-ray

—may indicate pneumonitis or pneumoconiosis (small
opacities in all regions of the lung)

35


Crystalline Silica

Introduction

The crystalline form of silica, silicon dioxide, is widely
distributed in nature and constitutes a major portion of most
rocks and their products such as soils and sands. Silica occurs
in three principal crystalline forms: Quartz, tridymite, and
cristobalite. During many industrial operations such as
drilling blast holes and grinding stone objects, a dust of silica
particles can be formed. Inhalation of. these very sharp,
insoluble particles into the lungs can produce the disease
silicosis, which is a form of pneumoconiosis characterized by
the formation of small, discrete fibrous nodules in the lungs.

The silicosis nodule is composed of circular bundles of collagen
(a fibrous insoluble protein) resulting in fibrous nodules
measuring 1 to 10 millimeters in diameter. The nodules are
found in lymphatics around blood vessels, beneath the pleura
(the membrane covering the thoracic cage and lungs), and in
groups of lymph nodes within the chest cavity. The upper lobes
and hilar lymph nodes are more severely affected than the lung
bases. The nodules may fuse to become “progressive massive
fibrosis.”

Silicosis may be of an acute or chronic nature. Acute silicosis
refers to a rapidly developing lung disease which may occur in
workers exposed to high levels of respirable free silica over a
relatviely short period ranging from a few weeks to 4 or 5 years.
Eight to 18 months may lapse from the time of first exposure to
the onset of symptoms which include progressive dyspnea
(abored or difficult breathing), fever, cough, and weight loss.
After development of symptoms, survival time is likely to be
short. This disease has been most often reported in
manufacturers and packers of abrasive soap powders, in sand-
blasters working in enclosed tanks, and in high-power drillers
of tunnel rock.

Chronic pulmonary silicosis, the type commonly encountered
in industry, is similar to acute silicosis but usually develops
after many years of exposure to silica dust and may take many
more years to progress. This disease occurs most frequently in
the mining industry but is also seen in other industries such as

155


Amblyopia: Reduced or dimness of vision.
Anemia: Deficiency in the hemoglobin and/or red blood cells.

Angina: Any disease characterized by attacks of choking or
suffocation.

Anorexia: Loss of appetite.
Anuria: Urinary suppression or failure of kidney function.

Aplastic Anemia: Failure of bone marrow to produce red blood
cells.

Arthralgia: Pain in a joint.

Asphyxia: Suffocation from lack of oxygen.
Asthenia: Lack or loss of strength: debility.
Asymptomatic: Without symptoms.

Ataxia: Muscular incoordination.

Atelectasis: A collapsed or airless condition of the lung or a
segment of the lung.

Atrophy: Reduction in size.

Attenuation: Lessening.

Audiogram: A test and recording of hearing ability.
Audiometer: An instrument for measuring hearing ability.

Auricular Fibrillation: Extermely rapid incomplete contrac-
tions of the upper heart chambers (auricles of heart).

Basophilia: A pathological reaction of immature erythrocytes
to basic dyes whereby the stained cells appear blue, gray, or
contain bluish granules.

Basophilic Stippling: A spotted appearance of erythrocytes in
Basophilia due to bluish granules.

242


significant that cigarette smoking in men and women greatly
increases the risk of lung cancer in those who are exposed to
asbestos. Smoking is a factor that should be considered when
determining whether lung cancer is caused, wholly or in part,
by an occupational exposure to asbestos.

Mesothelioma, a rare malignant tumor of the membrane which
lines the chest cavity and the abdominal cavity, is occurring
with increasing frequency in workers with exposure to asbes-
tos. The development of this tumor apparently is not related to
the amount of asbestos inhaled and it is found in persons not
having asbestosis. Levels of exposure which are within
accepted standards for protection against asbestosis may not
protect against mesothelioma.

An increased incidence of malignancy of the stomach and
colon has been reported among insulation workers using

asbestos.

Occupations with Potential Exposure to Asbestos

acoustical product makers
acoustical product installers
air filter makers
asbestos-cement

products makers
asbestos-cement

product users
asbestos-coating makers
asbestos-coatings users
asbestos-grout makers
asbestos-grout users
asbestos-millboard makers
asbestos-millboard users
asbestos-mortar makers
asbesos-mortar users
asbestos millers
asbestos miners
asbestos-paper makers
asbestos-paper users
asbesos-plaster makers
asbestos-plaster users
asbestos sprayers

crushers (asbestos)
fiberizers (asbestos)
fireproofers

firemen

furnace filter makers

gasket makers

heat resistant clothing makers
insulation workers

inert filter media workers
ironing board cover makers
laboratory hood installers
laggers

paint makers

pipe insulators

plastics makers

pump packing makers
roofers

roofing materials makers
rubber compounders
shingle makers

55


APPENDIX E
GLOSSARY

Aberrations: Deviations from a normal course.

Acoustic, Acoustical: Containing, producing, or rising from,
actuated by, related to, or associated with sound.

Acoustic Trauma: Hearing loss caused by sudden loud noise or
by sudden blow.

Acuity: Pertaining to the sensitivity of the senses, such as
hearing.

Acute: Sharp, severe; having rapid onset, severe symptoms,
and a short course.

Addison’s Disease: Disease resulting from deficiency in the
secretion of adrenocortical hormones.

Adhesion: A holding together by new connective tissues
produced by inflammation or injury.

Adsorption: The condensation of gases, liquids, or dissolved
substances on the surfaces of solids.

Air Monitoring: The continuous sampling for, and measuring
of, pollutants in the atmosphere.

Albuminuria: Presence of readily detectable amounts of
albumin protein in the urine.

Allergy: An abnormal response of a hypersensitive person to
chemical and physical stimuli.

Alopecia: Baldness or deficiency of hair, partial or complete,
localized or generalized.

Alveolar: Concerning the air spaces within the lungs.

Alveoli: Air spaces within the lungs.

241


CHAPTER VI — VALIDITY OF
TESTIMONY

Non-professional persons cannot be expected to collect and
evaluate all of the information needed. In most cases, physi-
cians will provide testimony on medical conditions and
laboratory and other medical tests; industrial hygienists will
testify concerning evidence of exposure; epidemiologists give
testimony on epidemiologic data. These professionals must
consider all pertinent points in their area of expertise in order
to present an accurate and meaningful evaluation of the avail-
able data. The hearing examiner, board, commissioner, or
officer should verify:

1. The professional qualifications of those testifying, and

2. the basis of the testimony, that is, the importance
attributed to various areas of the information reviewed,
and the conclusions that were drawn.

Medical

The phrase “competent medical person” is frequently used in
both the lay and professional literature, including this guide.
But what does it mean? Who is a competent medical person?
Board certification (other than in occupational medicine) and
academic status do not in themselves confer expertise in
occupational disease. An expert in a specific medical field is
not necessarily medically competent to render clinical judg-
ment on an entire case, but only on that portion which is within
his or her area of expertise. No rigid rules for judging compe-
tency can be defined. Because of the many variables, some
guidelines are offered to aid the decision-maker in judging who
is or might be considered a “competent medical person.”

21


Lung Compliance

(liters/em/H,O) 0.2 0.112 .... wenn
Arterial pH 7.35-7.45 740 7.44 7.8
Oxygen Saturation

(%) 99.5 943 943 868
Pao,‘ (mm Hg) air 90-100 75 75 55

100% oxygen 550 560 550 550
Paco, air 40 29 35 35
Diffusing Capacity

(DLCO)'

ml/min/mm Hg 23.2-39.2 30.7 32.3 240

(Tse and Bockman, 1970)

a - Residual volume/total lung capacity
b - Forced expiratory volume in 1 second
c - Forced expiratory volume in 3 seconds
d - Arterial oxygen pressure

e - Arterial carbon dioxide pressure

f - Diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide

All 4 firemen experienced respiratory discomfort of varying
degrees with or without abnormal X-ray findings about 4 to6
weeks after exposure. No correlation between individual
response and smoking was made; however, it was noted that
the 1 fireman most severely affected had stopped smoking 14
years prior to exposure. The others who smoked about %
package of cigarettes per day at the time of the accident event-
ually became asymptomatic.

The probable results of excessive single exposures to nitrogen

dioxide as determined by the American Industrial Hygiene
Association are as follows:®°

142


Cotton Dust

Introduction

Among workers in cotton mills particularly where there
exist high levels of dust exposure, for example in breakdown,
opening, and card rooms, the pneumoconiosis, byssinosis, has
been found to be highly prevalent. The term “pneumoconiosis”
applies to conditions casued by accumulation of a variety of
dusts capable of inducing a tissue reaction in the lung.
Inhalation of cotton dust results in a type of pneumoconiosis
which is known to cause decreases of the ventilatory capacity of
the lungs as well as symptoms of chest tightness and dyspnea
(labored or difficult breathing). Symptoms become progressive-
ly more severe during the work week, and workers experience
relief over the weekend. However, there is a critical point when
irreversible pulmonary (lung) changes occur.

No specific cause has been found for byssinosis. There is suffi-
cient evidence to suggest that cotton dust itself, as well as an
agent in the bracts (a major component of cotton trash), can
lead to the liberation of excess histamine(a naturally occurring
broncho-constrictor) when either or both come into contact
with the bronchial mucosa (mucous membrane). Airway
constriction may be induced by the deposition of cotton dust
in the airways in the absence of an immunological reaction.

It has been proposed that a polyphenol extracted from the
cotton plant causes a Type III or Arthus reaction (a severe local
inflammatory reponse) which in turn causes the disease.
Though an antibody to cotton antigen was found in workers
with byssinosis, this may represent a nonspecific immune
(allergic) reaction.

The lungs of byssinotic workers contain an excessive amount
of reticulin and collagen (connective tissue). Rounded yellow
dust bodies with a central black core are visible. Emphyse-
matous changes and pathological evidence of chronic
bronchitis are also seen.

The severity of reaction depends on a number of factors:

Duration of exposure to cotton dust, individual susceptibility,
the composition of the cotton dust fiber or particle size, and

88


dye makers sodium sulfite makers

exterminators storage battery chargers

feather workers straw bleachers

fertilizer makers sugar refiners

firemen sulfite makers

flour bleachers sulfur dioxide workers

flue cleaners sulfurers (malt and hops)

food bleachers sulfuric acid makers

foundry workers tannery workers

fruit preservers textile bleachers

fumigant makers thermometer makers (vapor)

fumigators thiony] chloride makers

furnace operators tunnel workers

galvanizers vegetable preservers

gelatin bleachers vulcanizers

glass makers wicker ware bleachers

glue bleachers wine makers

grain bleachers wood bleachers

heat treaters wood pulp bleachers
(magnesium) zinc smelters

ice makers

insecticide makers

Medical Evaluation and Differential
Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)

The following should be considered:

—Any history of past disease of the eye or the-
cardiopulmonary system (of the heart and/or lungs)
should be carefully evaluated to determine if present
symptoms are, in fact, associated with a previous disease
or injury.

—a respiratory questionnaire, such as that in Appendix C,
can be useful in evaluating the extent and importance of
respiratory symptoms, such as:
~breathlessness,

-sputum production,

170


Chemical Name

Common Names

arsenic pentachloride
arsenic pentafluoride
arsenic pentaselenide
arsenic pentasulfide

arsenic pentoxide

arsenic phosphide

arsenic tribromide

arsenic trichloride

arsenic trifluoride

arsenic triiodide

arsenic trioxide

arsenic triselenide

arsenic chloride

arsenic fluoride

diarsenic pentasulfide

arsenic acid anhydride, arsenic
oxide, arsenic anhydride,
arsenic pentaoxide, ZOTOX

arsenic bromide, arsenous
bromide

arsenic butter, arsenic chloride,
arsenious chloride, arsenous
chloride, butter of arsenic,
caustic arsenic chloride, fuming
liquid arsenic

arsenic fluoride, arsenious
fluoride, arsenous fluoride

arsenic iodide, arseniousiodide,
arsenous iodide

arsenic sesquioxide, arsenious
acid, arsenious oxide,
arsenolite, arsenious trioxide,
arsenite, arsenous acid,
arsenous acid anhydride,
arsenous anhydride, arsenous
oxide, arsenous oxide anhy-
dride, claudite, claudetite, crude
arsenic, white arsenic

arsenious selenide, arsenous
selenide

42


3 Severe acute Symptoms as in Grade 2
bronchitis plus dyspnea on exertion

4 Probable chronic Cough OR sputum present
bronchitis for 3 months each year and
for at least 2 years

5 Chronic bronchitis Cough AND sputum with
some frequency and
duration as in Grade 4

6 Moderately severe Symptoms as in Grade 5
chronic bronchitis plus dyspnea on heavy
exertion (i-e., hill climbing)

7 Severe chronic Symptoms as in Grade 5
bronchitis plus dyspnea on slight
exertion (i.e., slow pace on
level)

(Mittman et al, 1974)
NOTE: Cigarette smoking has been associated with increasing

the severity of symptoms and should be considered when
reviewing each case.

Skin

Signs and symptoms which may be present include:
—The skin reacts abnormally to light (photosensitization)
with resultant:
—diffuse redness (erythema),
-swelling of body tissues (edema), and
-burning of theskin with hyperpigmentation developing
later.
—acne and blackheads (comedones),
—thickening of the skin (keratosis),
—contact dermatitis,
—formation of benign tumors or warts (papillomas), and
—inflammation of follicles.

Systemic
—Loss of appetite (anorexia),

—nausea, and
—vomiting.

83


Medical Monitoring: Periodic evaluation of body functions to
ascertain state of health.

Melanosis: Unusual deposit of black pigments in different
parts of the body.

Melena: Black vomit due to action of intestinal juices on free
blood.

Menorrhagia: Excessive bleeding during the menstrual period
in number of days, amount of blood, or both.

Mesothelioma: A malignant tumor of the membrane which
surrounds the internal organs of the body.

Metastasis: Spreading of cancer cells from one part of the body
to another.

Methemoglobin: A form of hemoglobin wherein the ferrous iron
has been oxidized to ferric iron.

Methemoglobinemia: A condition where more than 1% of the
hemoglobin in the blood has been oxidized to the ferric form.

Mists: Liquid droplets suspended in air.

Morphological: Pertaining to the biological study of the form
and structure of living organisms.

Mucopolysaccharides: A chief conatituent of mucous.

Mucopurulent: Consisting of mucous and pus.

Myalgia: Tenderness or pain in the muscles.

Myeloblastic: A condition where the bone marrow cell develops
into a large cell in bone marrow from which blood cells are
formed.

Myelofibrosis: Replacement of bone marrow by fibrous tissue.

Myeloid: Like marrow.

Myelopoieses: The development of bone marrow or formation of
cells derived from bone marrow.

252


concentrations averaged 80 to 100 ppm.) Average length of
employment exposure was 3.8 years, and 47 workers had 4 to12
years employment exposure. A control group of 100 men, age-
matched with the exposed group, was selected from parts of the
same plant where there was no known exposure to sulfur
dioxide or other known noxious gases, fumes, or dust. An
incidence of slight chronic nasopharyngitis significantly
higher than normal was found in exposed workers, and many
of these workers suffered partial loss of sense of taste and smell.
The susceptibility to ordinary colds was no higher than normal
but their average duration was 2 to 3 times longer than the
average for the control group. Other significant differences
between the 2 groups were dyspnea on exertion and increased
fatigue from work.

Skalpe '§ reported a study of 54 workers at 4 different pulp
mills that was initiated by the observation that pulp mill
workers very often complained of chronic cough. The workers
were exposed to concentrations of sulfur dioxide ranging from 2
to 36 ppm but were reported to occasionally have much heavier
exposure due to special procedures than was indicated by the
analysis. The control group, 56 unexposed workers from the
same industry and district, had no significant differences in
age or in frequency of smokers. A significantly higher frequency
of cough, expectoration, and dyspnea on exertion was found in
the exposed group with the difference being greatest in age
groups under 50 years. The average maximal expiratory flow
rate was significantly lower (the difference in means, 42 liters
per minute, was twice the standard error) in the exposed group
than in the control group in the age groups under 50; there was
no difference in values in the age group over 50. Vital capacity
values showed no significant difference between the groups.

Skalpe stated that the probable explanation for the high
frequency of respiratory disease symptoms in the age group
under 50 was because respiratory disease is rare in this age
group. Therefore, the effect of small external insults would be
easier to detect than in the older age group where respiratory
disease from other causes is more common, so that a small
addition would be less noticeable.

In a mortality study of 8,047 copper smelter workers exposed to
arsenic trioxide and sulfur dioxide, Lee and Fraumeni'!"?
hypothesized that an interaction between exposure to high
levels of arsenic trioxide and to sulfur dioxide (or other

174


TABLE 2 (b)
ATMOSPHERIC PAPER DUST CONCENTRATIONS
October 10, 1973

XYZ VARIETY STORES
SOMETOWN, NY

RESULTS AS
SAMPLE TIME MILLIGRAMS PER
NUMBER LOCATION START/ CUBIC METER
STOP OF AIR
OSHA ALLOWABLE LIMIT
(Nuisance Particulates) 15
Operator’s Breathing Zone:
1 Jack White — 0800/1200 2
performing normal
duties.
2 Jack White — 1200/1600 1.5
performing normal
duties.
Time Weighted Average Exposure 1.75

210


Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Key, M. M.,; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases—A Guide
to Their Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
Office.

Lee, S. D. ed. 1977. Biochemical Effects of Environmental
Pollutants. Ann Harbor: Ann Harbor Science Publishers, Inc.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, 19 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Sax, N. I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Skalpe, I. O. 1964. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 21:69.
Smith, T. J.; et al. 1977. Am. Rev. Respir. Dis. 116:31.

Speizer, F. E.; and Frank, N. R. 1966. Arch. Environ. Health.
12:725.

Wolff, R. K.; et al. 1975. Arch. Environ: Health. 30:521.
Toluene Diisocyanate

NIOSH. 1974. Criteria for a Recommended Standard—Occupa-
tional Exposure to Toluene Diisocyanate. Cincinnati: NIOSH.

Gafafer, W. M. 1966. Occupational Diseases—A Guide to Their
Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Johnstone, R. T.; and Miller, S. E. 1960. Occupational Diseases
and Industrial Medicine. Philadelphia: W. B. Saunders.

Malten, K. E.; and Zielhuis, R. L. 1964. Industrial Toxicology
and Dermatology in the Production and Processing of Plastics.
New York: Elsevier.

200


Epidemiology

Various epidemiologic studies have demonstrated the rela-
tionaship between asbestos and lung disease, including
mesothelioma, in such trades and occupations as mining,
insulation installation, textiles, paint, electrical industries,
and many other occupations as a result of the widespread use of
this substance.

The available information indicates evidence of a dose-
response relationship for asbestos exposure and the risk of
asbestosis and/or bronchogenic carcinoma. However, much of
this information is epidemiologic in nature and there is little
correlation between epidemiologic data and environmental
exposure data. For this reason and others, including the long
latent period for the development of carcinomas, it is difficult
to develop a specific dose-response relationship. This should be
taken into consideration. when referring. to the following
material:

Enterline!® has reported an exposure-response: relationship
between asbestos exposure (evaluated as millions of particles
per cubic foot years) and the risk of malignant and nonmalig-
nant respiratory disease. Enterline’s data indicate that the
risk of respiratory cancer increased from 166.7 (standardized
mortality ratio) at minimum exposure to 555.6 at cumulative
exposures exceeding 750 million particles per-cubic foot years.
Enterline’s data is summarized in a table by NIOSH”.

Murphy! reported that asbestosis was 1] times more common
among pipe coverers in new ship construction than in a control
group. The first asbestosis was found after 13 years of exposure
to an’estimated cumulative dose of about 60 million particles
per cubic foot years. After 20 years, asbestosis prevalence was
38%. Murphy reported no asbestosis for men exposed to 60
mppcf years but 20% asbestosis in men exposed to 75-100 mppcf
years. Murphy reports atmospheric dust concentrations
ranged from 0.8 - 10.0 mppcf depending on the different
operations evaluated. Asbestosis was considered present if the.
worker had at least three of the following: Vascular rales in two
or more sites, clubbing of the fingers, vital capacity ofless than
80% predicted, roentgenography consistent with moderately.
advanced or advanced asbestosis, and shortness of breath on
climbing one flight of stairs. -

60


Eye

—Inflammation of the membrane that lines the eyelids and
the front of the eyeball (conjunctivitis).

Laboratory and Clinical Examinations

Additional data which will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis when cancerous conditions are being evaluated are:

Lungs

—Chest X-ray,

—examination of sputum for cancer cells (sputum
cytology),

—visual examination of the bronchi (bronchoscopy),

—microscopic examination of a scalene node (scalene
node biopsy),

—percutaneous (effected through the skin) needle biopsy,
and,

—lung biopsy.

Genitourinary

—Urinalysis,

—X-ray examination of the kidney and ureters (intra-
venous pyelogram),

—visual examination of the bladder (cystoscopy),

—kidney biopsy,

—abdominal X-ray, and

—examination of the urine for cancer cells.

Skin

—Total removal of lesion, and microscopic (histological)
examination.

Additonal tests which will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis when noncancerous conditions are being evaluated
are:

Respiratory

—Chest X-ray and
—pulmonary function test.

84


mercuric-cuprous iodide

mercuric cyanate

mercuric cyanide

mercuric dichromate

mercuric fluoride
mercuric fluorsilicate
mercuric iodate

mercuric iodide

mercuric iodide ammonobasic

mercuric iodide, aquobasic-
ammonobasic

mercuric iodide diammine

mercuric nitrate

mercuric oxalate

mercuric oxide, red

mercuric oxide, yellow

mercuric oxybromide

mercuric oxychloride

copper-mercury iodide,
mercury-copper iodide

fulminate of mercury, mercuric
fulminate, mercury fulminate

mercury cyanide

mercuric dichromate, mereury
bichromate

mercury fluoride

mercury iodate

mercuric biniodide, mercury
biniodide, yellow mercury
iodide, red mercuric iodide, red
mercury iodide

mercury nitrate, mercury perni-
trate, mercury salt of nitric acid

mercuric oxide, red mercury
oxide, red oxide of mercury, red
precipitate

yellow mercury oxide, yellow
mercuric oxide, yellow oxide of
mercury, yellow precipitate

119


Advisory Committee on Asbestos Cancers. 1972. The
Biological Effects of Asbestos. Delivered to World Health
Organization, Lyon, Oct. 5-6.

NIOSH. 1972. Criteria for a Recommended Standard—
Occupational Exposure to Asbestos. Cincinnati: NIOSH.

Yater, W. M.; and Oliver, W. F. 1961. Symptom Diagnosis.
5th ed. New York: Appleton-Century-Croft.

Benzene
Aksoy, M. 1975. Blut. 30:255.

Aksoy, M_; et al. 1974. Blut. 28:293.

Daum, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1973. Work is Dangerous
to Your Health. New York: Random House.

Deichmann, W. 1963. Tox. App. Pharm. 5:201.

Elkins, H. B. 1959. The Chemistry of Industrial Toxicology.
2nd ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Key, M. M.; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases— A Guide
to Their Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government
Printing Office.

Gerardi, H. W. 1960. Toxicology and Biochemistry of Aromatic
Hydrocarbons. New York: Elsevier Publishing Co.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, S311 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. June 6, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Patty, F. A., ed. 1963. Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. 2nd
ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Sax, N. I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Thorpe, J. J. 1974. J. Occup. Med. 16:375.
Vigliana, E. C. 1976. Environ. Res. 11:122.

193


mercurous iodate
mercurous iodide
mercurous monohydrogen-
o-arsenate

mercurous nitrate

mercurous nitrate,
ammoniated
mercurous nitrite
mercurous oxalate
mercurous oxide

mercurous phosphate

mercurous sulfate
mercurous sulfide
mercury

mercury ammoniated

mercury iodide, mercury proto-
iodide, yellow mercury iodide

hydrated mercurous nitrate,
mercury nitrate, mercury salt
of nitric acid

ammoniated mercury nitrate,
black precipitate, Hahnemann’s
soluble mercury

black mercurous oxide

neutral mercurous phosphate,
normal mercurous phosphate,
mercury phosphate, tertiary
mercurous phosphate, trimer-
curous orthophosphate

mercury sulfate

hydrargyrum, quick silver

aminomercuric chloride,
ammono-basic mercuric chlo-
ride, ammoniated mercuric
chloride, ammoniated mercury
chloride, ammoniated mercury,
fusible white precipitate,
Lamery’s white precipitate,
mecuric ammonium chloride,
mercury amine chloride, mer-
cury ammoniated, mercury cos-
metic, white precipitate

122


“Antimony spots” is a dermatitis caused by antimony trioxide
in which there is intense itching followed by skin eruption.
Lesions tend to occur in hot weather due to dust accumulating
on moist skin areas.

Chromosome damage in human cells has been induced by
antimony (Patton and Allison, 1972).

Antimony can form many compounds, moat of which are less
toxic than antimony. The following is a listing of common
compounds and some common names, followed by a listing of
occupations with potential exposure to antimony:

Chemical Name Common Names

antimony antimony black, antimony

regulus, stibium
antimony arsenate
antimony arsenite

antimony
dioxysulfate

antimony ethoxide

antimony
a-mercaptoacetamide

antimony lactate

antimony] pyrogallol

antimony oxychloride

antimony oxysulfide

triethyl antimonite

antimony thioglycolamide

antimonine, antimony salt of
lactic acid

algaroth powder, antimony]
chloride, antimony chloride
oxide, basic antimony chloride,
mercurius vitae

cathusian powder, kermes
mineral, kermesite,pyrostibnite
antimony blend, sulfurated
antimony

29


OSHA indicates that “when the daily noise exposure is com-
posed of two or more periods of noise exposure of different
levels, their combined effect should be considered, rather than
the individual effect on each.

“If the sum of the following fractions C1/T1+C2/T2+...Cn/Tn
exceeds unity, then the mixed exposure should be considered to
exceed the limit value. Cn indicates that the total time of
exposure at a specified noise level, and Tn indicates the total
time of exposure permitted at that level.”

The OSHA allowable limit for impact noise should not exceed
140 dB peak sound pressure level. NOISE ABOVE these limits
may cause damage, and the exact level of safety has not yet
been determined.

Conclusion

A careful otologic examination and hearing evaluation as
outlined above are necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Criteria for diagnosing occupational hearing loss due to
exposure to noise include the following:

1. Time and nature of onset of the loss,

2. pattern of hearing loss for different frequencies,

3. confirmed history of occupational exposure of many
months or years to noise level in excess of accepted
standards, and

4. clinical findings of otologic examination and medical
history.

Functional hearing impairment exists when there is no organic
cause for the apparent deafness, and the inability to hear
results chiefly from psychological or emotional factors.

Acoustic trauma is hearing loss resulting from a loud noise,

such as an accidental explosion. If the causative noise occurs
on the job, the hearing loss would be occupational.

154


Toluene Diisocyanate

Introduction

Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) is a liquid used in the
manufacture of polyurethane. The liquid, vapor, and aerosol
forms are powerful irritants to all tissue.

Skin contact with liquid toluene diisocyanate causes
inflammation which may lead to a chemical dermatitis. Liquid
in the eyes causes severe irritation with lacrimation (watering
of the eyes). A chemical conjunctivitis with swelling of the
cornea can result from exposure to the vapor.

The vapor is a potent respiratory irritant and sensitizer. In
some cases where sensitization has occurred, violent
respiratory symptoms can develop on exposure to very low
concentrations. It is not now known if all or only some people
may become sensitized.

The irritating effects of TDI include rhinitis (inflammation of
the mucous membrane lining the nose), pharyngitis (inflam-
mation of the pharynx), bronchitis, and in severe exposure,
inflammation of the bronchioles. Occasionally the onset is with
an attack of asthma. Usually the signs and symptoms of chest
involvement subside when the exposure ceases. However, there
is evidence that lung ventilatory capacity may be impaired in
TDI foam workers even though they were symptomless and the
maximum permissible concentrations had not been exceeded.
Cigarette smokers and those with chronic lung disease show
greater impairment.

Medical surveillance with frequent lung function tests, because
of respiratory tract involvement, and eosinophil counts
because of the allergenic properties of toluene diisocyanate are
useful.

Occupations with Potential Exposures to Toluene

Diisocyanate
abrasion resistant rubber nylon makers
makers organic chemical symthesizers

177


CHAPTER II—EVIDENCE OF
DISEASE

The first consideration in determining the probability of a
cause-effect relationship between an illness and an agent at the
workplace is to establish:

1. That a disease condition does, in fact, exist, and
2. that the particular manifestations of the disease appear
to be the result of exposure to a specific harmful agent.

The medical evidence which may be elicited in the course of the
medical evaluation should cover the above points. Generally, a
medical evaluation should include:
1. An analysis of the employee's medical, personal, family,
and occupational histories;
2. a thorough physical examination and clinical evalua-
tion (analysis of signs and symptoms); and
3. a laboratory evaluation (analysis of the results of
specific tests).

Medical History

In order to determine the origin of illness, the worker's past
medical history must be evaluated by the physician. A routine
medical history includes the dates and details of:

—Onset of present illness,

—all previous illnesses (childhood, physical, mental),
—injuries,

—surgical procedures, and

—hospital admissions.

In addition, the medical history should include any details
specific to a suspected occupational causative agent.


Urinalysis: Normal

Thyroid function tests: Normal
Blood Lead: 0.03 mg/100 gms
Urinary Arsenic: 0.9 mg/liter

Epidemiologic Findings

The workplace was surveyed (see Table 1). It was found that
the atmosphere contained levels of arsenic in excess of the
Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) standards. At
breathing level, where the patient worked at mixing the
pigments, arsenic levels often were much too high. Dust on the
floor and walls contained arsenic and when cleaning, larger
than recommended amounts of airborne arsenic were found.
Even though pigment containing arsenic was not mixed daily,
there was cumulative exposure.

The literature contains ample evidence to indicate that such
exposure to arsenic dust could produce arsenic intoxication.

TABLE 1

ATMOSPHERIC METAL DUST AND
FUME CONCENTRATIONS
October 1, 1975
ABC ARTS & CRAFTS
ANYTOWN, U:S.A.

TIME RESULTSIN MILLIGRAMS PER

SAMPLE START/ CUBIC METER OF AIR

NUMBER STOP Chrom-
LOCATION Arsenic Nickel Lead ium

OSHA Allowable

Limits 0.5 1 0.2 0.5

Operator’s Breathing

Zone:

1 John Doe-General 0700/ = 0.47. <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
Work in stockroom 1900
weighing pigments.

204


Signs and Symptoms

Local

—irritation of eyes

—irritation of mucus membranes of upper respiratory tract

—yellowish or brownish staining of skin and teeth (may
indicate nitric acid exposure)

Systemic

Nitrogen dioxide fumes can cause 2 types of upper
respiratory tract injuries:

—Severe pulmonary irritation, progressing to pulmonary
edema, which may occur within 24 hours of prolonged
and/or concentrated exposure

—insidious bronchiolar damage, causing life-threatening
respiratory tract obstruction in 1 to 4 weeks after only
mild to moderate exposure to the toxic gas.

Methemoglobinemia may also occur.

Acute Exposure

—discomfort, uneasiness, or indisposition, often indicative
of infection (malaise)

—bluish or grayish discoloration of the skin (cyanosis)

—cough

—expectoration of blood (hemoptysis)

—rapid breathing (tachypnea)

—labored or difficult breathing (dyspnea)

—chills

—fever

—headache

—nausea

—vomiting

—unconsciousness

—collapse and death from respiratory failure

—bronchial irritation, a 5- to 12-hour symptom-free period,
followed by sudden onset of acute pulmonary edema may
also occur

137



_

. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to nitrogen
dioxide,

. clinical findings as outlined in this guide,

. blood platelet may increase 10 to 100% above normal,

. methemoglobin determination may be helpful,

. carbon dioxide in the blood may be increased,

X-rays may show chemical pneumonitis or pulmonary

edema, and

. pulmonary function tests.

1 aguawnw

X-ray findings and lung function tests results are of diagnostic
value but diagnosis cannot be based on these findings alone.

The clinical findings or effects of inhalation exposure to
nitrogen dioxide may simulate other diseases such as
pneumonia, acute bronchitis, or even cerebral hemorrhage.
These entities can usually be excluded by an accurate medical
history.

The history of acute nitrogen dioxide exposure is characteristic:
initial symptoms subside upon termination of exposure,
followed by a sudden onset of pulmonary edema (excess fluidin
lung tissue) after a latent period of 3 to 30 hours.

145


Benign: Harmless.

Bilirubin: The orange-colored or yellowish bile pigment
formed by the breakdown of heme (such as found in hemo-
globin) circulated in the plasma and taken up by liver cells.

Bioassay: Estimation of the strength of a drug on a test animal.

Biologic Monitoring: Periodic examination of blood, urine, or
any other body substance to determine exposure to toxic
materials.

Biopsy: Removal of small bits of living tissue from the body
for study.

Blood Count: A count of the total number of blood cells
circulating in the body. A complete blood count totals the
number of different kinds of blood cells circulating in the
body.

Blood Dyscrasia: An abnormality of the blood or blood forming
system.

Body Burden: The amount of a harmful material in the body at
a given time.

Bone Conduction Test: A hearing test conducted by placing a
vibrating tuning fork on the bony portion of the head.

Bone Marrow: The soft tissue of bone which is a part of the
blood forming system.

Bradycardic: Slow heart action.

Brain Dysfunction: Abnormal, inadequate, or impaired
function of the brain.

Bronchial Tubes: Branches or subdivisions of the trachea
(windpipe).

Bronchiectasis: Dilation, usually of the terminal bronchi, often
associated with abnormal secretions.

Bronchiogenic: Originating in the bronchi.

243


Yaffe and Jones" reported a study of Federal penitentiary
workers (textiles, wood products, sheet metal, brush, shoe and
clothing manufacture, and printing) where octave band noise
levels ranged from 75-110 dB. “Those levels which exceeded
octave band criteria produced significant hearing threshold
shifts at 3, 4, and 6 KHz after 24 months exposure. The loca-
tions producing the largest shifts were cotton mill twist and
weaving departments, woolen mill weaving departments, and
furniture mills.”

Schneider®> reported a study of 294 jobs in chemical works
involving 691 individuals. “Data divided into 4 noise exposure
groups based on octave band criteria indicated that the group
exceeding criteria more than 10% of the time experienced a
permanent threshold shift of 1 dB per year at 2, 3, and 4 KHz.
For the group near criteria exposure, most of the hearing loss
occurred within the first five or so years.”

Brohm and Zlamal** reported a study of noise in the cabs of
heavy trucks ranging from 90-110 dB. Examinations were
made of 51 truck drivers and in each case a loss of hearing was
determined.”

Mancini and Stancari®’ reported a study of 50 fettlers. “Men
working in 9 foundries with noise levels of 92-100 dB. In men
who had been working for more than 5-6 years in noisy
conditions almost all frequencies were involved; those who had
worked less than 2-3 months in noisy conditions showed a loss
varying from 30 to 50 dB at 400 Hz.” Chadwick® reported a
study of 12 men exposed to noise from industrial gas-turbine
engine noise. “Noise levels reached as high as 113dB flat...the
low-tone loss in just over two years was in the region of 10 dB
and from 2,000-4,000 Hz was in the order of 20dB...the average
loss for the speech frequencies was .. . eight times more than
that to be expected in a more conventional industry with a
known noise hazard.

Filin®? reported a study of drivers of self-propelled jumbos in
underground ore mining. “Noise levels of 127 dB at frequencies
between 1,000 Hz and 8,000 Hz. Hearing loss in 91 of 195 miners
examined; after 10 years’ work, 28 dB loss at 4,000 Hz.”

WestonTM reported a study of agricultural tractor drivers. “53

drivers of tractors of different horsepower; audiograms showed.
greater impairment in inland drivers where the tractors are of

151


Chemical Name

Common Names

lead arsenate

lead arsenite

mercuric arsenate

metaarsenic acid

orthoarsenic acid

nickel arsenate

sodium arsenite

acid lead arsenate, arsenate of
lead, lead salt of arsenic acid,
dibasic lead arsenate, lead
orthoarsenate, plumbous
arsenate

lead m-arsenite, lead o-arsenite,
lead metaarsenite

mercury arsenate, mercury
arsenite

acid-true arsenic acid, arsenic
acid, arsenic acid 75, arsenic
acid hemihydrate, liquid arsenic,
Mmeta-arsenic acid, orthoarsenic
acid hemihydrate

nickel o-arsenate, nickelous
arsenate

disodium salt of arsenious acid

Occupations with Potential Exposure to Inorganic Arsenic

acetylene workers

acid dippers

alloy makers

aniline color makers
aniline workers

arsenic workers
artificial flower makers
babbitt metal workers
bleaching powder makers
boiler operators

book binders

brass makers

bronze makers
bronzers

cadmium workers

electroplaters
electrolytic copper workers
enamelers

enamel makers
etchers
exterminators
farmers

feather workers
ferrosilicon workers
fertilizer makers
fireworks makers
flypaper makers
galvanizers

glass makers

gold extractors

44


Chromatography: An analytical technique for the separation
and identification of chemical compounds.

Chronic: Long, drawn out; designating a disease showing
little change or of slow progression and long continuance.

Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease: Disease processes which
cause decreased pulmonary ventilation (e.g., pulmonary
emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic asthma, and
chronic bronchiolitis).

Cirrhosis: Progressive fibrosis of the liver.

Coalescence: Fusion of two or more parts.

Colic: Spasm in any hollow or tubular soft organ such as
the colon accompanied by pain.

Colorimetry: An analytical technique based on measuring
color.

Coma: Prolonged unconsciousness.

Comedones: Blackheads or plugging of sebaceous gland of
skin.

Compound: A chemical substance composed of two or more
elements joined according to the laws of chemical combina-
tion. Each compound has its own characteristic properties
different from those of its constituent elements.

Concomitant: Occurring at the same time.

Conductive Hearing Loss: Type of hearing loss not caused by
noise exposure, but due to any disorder in the middle ear or
external ear that prevents the sound from reaching the inner
ear.

Conjunctiva: The membrane that lines the eyelids and covers
the exposed surface of the sclera.

Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the membrane that lines the
eyelids and the front of the eyeball.



Conclusion

The differential diagnosis would include lead poisoning,
hypothyroidism, anemia and chronic arsenic poisoning; the
laboratory findings rule out lead poisoning and
hypothyroidism and indicate an absorption of arsenic. Anemia
would not account for all of the symptoms and could be part of
the pathology of arsenic intoxication,

This history of the complaint, the symptoms and signs along
with the laboratory information and the abnormal exposure to
arsenic in the workplace, and no evidence of nonoccupational
exposure make the diagnosis of chronic arsenic intoxication,
occupational in origin.

Nonoccupational Disease Case History

Complaint: Cough of five years duration and shortness of
breath.

Medical Evaluation

Evaluation of complaint: About five years ago started to
notice a cough that seems to occur during sleeping and at work.
He may awaken and raise a mouthful of white, clear sputum.
There is no cough on arising in the morning but during the
course of the day may bring up 1 or 2 mouthfuls of white
sputum—never colored or blood streaked.

He has no dyspnea but states that he does become aware of
shortness of breath after climbing 7 or 8 stairs. He can walk 2 or
8 flights slowly but without stopping.

He sleeps without a pillow and has no swelling of the ankles.
There is no chest pain or wheezing. He has no history of allergy
and there are no other symptoms. The rest of the systemic
review is noncontributory. He has never sought medical
attention for the cough or shortness of breath during the five
years that he has been aware of it.

Medical History
General health always has been good. Tonsillectomy and

adenoidectomy at age 7. Usual childhood diseases, no
accidents or serious illnesses. He received $2,000.00 from a

206


Coke oven quench car
operators

Coal distillers

Cobblers (asbestos)

Coke oven workers

Colored glass maker
Compressed air workers
Corrugated paper
manufacture
Crop dusters
Crushers (asbestos)
Cutlery makers
Cupola workers
Cyclohexane makers
Decorators, pottery
Defoliant applicators
Defoliant makers
Degreasers
Demolition workers
Dental amalgam makers
Dental technicians
Dental workers
Dentists
Detergent makers
Diamond polishers
Diatomaceous earth
calciners
Dichlorobenzene makers
Diesel equipment operators
Diesel engine operators

Diesel engine repairmen
Dimethlsulfate makers
Diphenyl makers

Direct current meter workers
Disinfectant makers

Disinfectors

Dippers (acid)

Divers

Dock workers

Drawing frame operators,
cotton mill

Drug makers

Coke oven emissions

Carbon monoxide

Asbestos

Benzene, carbon monoxide,
sulfur dioxide

Chromic acid

Carbon monoxide

Noise

Arsenic, lead
Asbestos

Lead, silica
Carbon monoxide
Benzene

Lead

Arsenic

Arsenic

Benzene

Lead, noise
Mercury

Lead

Nitrogen dioxide
Mercury, nitrogen dioxide
Benzene

Lead

Silica

Benzene

Nitrogen dioxide

Sulfur dioxide, carbon
monoxide

Sulfur dioxide

Arsenic

Benzene

Mercury

Arsenic, benzene, mercury,
sulfur dioxide

Mercury, sulfur dioxide

Chromic acid

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide

Cotton dust

Arsenic, benzene, mercury

224


and considerable judgment is necessary when data are lacking
or incomplete.

This guide is an effort to define a step-by-step method for
assembling and appraising evidence for the purpose of aiding
the decision-making process. It is intended to be of particular
assistance in cases where the suspected agent is not generally
known to produce disease, and in those in which nonoccupa-
tional exposures must be considered.

The Method

This guide presents a suggested approach to decision-making
that consists of six basic steps:
. Consideration of evidence of disease,
. consideration of epidemiologic data,
. consideration of evidence of exposure,
. consideration of validity of testimony,
. consideration of other relevant factors, and
. evaluation and conclusion.

Qorawne

Each of these steps is discussed fully in subsequent chapters.
The importance of individual steps will vary according to the
type of agent, the amount and quality of medical and occupa-
tional information available, and past experience with similar
situations. Occasionally, one or more steps can be omitted.
However, with occupational diseases, what appears to be
“obvious” is often subject to controversy, and it is important to
assemble complete information wherever possible in order to
assure an equitable decision.


Textile manufacture

Textile processors

Textile workers

Thermometer makers

Thermometer makers,
vapor pressure

Thiony] chloride makers

Tile makers

Tin foil makers

Tinners

Tobacco seedling treaters

Tooth paste makers

Toll collectors (highway)

Tooth paste makers

Tree sprayers

Trinitrotoluo! makers

Traffic controllers

Transportation equipment
operators

Trucking

Tube mill liners

Tumbling barrel workers

Tunnel construction
workers

Tunnel workers

Twisters, cotton mill

Type cleaners

Type founders

Type metal workers

Type setters

TDI workers

Undercoaters

Upholstery makers

Vacuum pump makers

Vanadium compound
makers

Vapor tube makers

Varnish makers

Vegetable preservers

Vehicle tunnel attendants

Vine dressers
Vinyl chloride makers
Vinyl-asbestos tile makers

Noise, cotton dust
Tol. diisocyanate
Asbestos, cotton dust
Mercury

Sulfur dioxide

Sulfur dioxide
Lead, silica

Lead

Arsenic, lead
Benzene

Silica

Carbon monoxide
Silica

Arsenic

Benzene

Caron monoxide
Noise, carbon monoxide

Noise, carbon monoxide
Silica

Silica

Silica, noise

Nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide
Cotton dust
Benzene
Antimony, lead
Antimony, arsenic
Antimony, lead
Tol. diisocyanate
Asbestos

Tol. diisocyanate
Mercury

Lead

Mercury

Arsenic, benzene, lead

Sulfur dioxide

Lead, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur
dioxide, carbon monoxide

Arsenic

Mercury

Asbestos


Taylor® reported a study of 7 workers who were accidentally
exposed to the fume of antimony trichloride. Air contained up
to 73 milligrams of antimony per cubic meter when leaks
developed during the refining of the ore. After 24 hours, 5 men
had symptoms of gastrointestinal disturbance including
abdominal pain and persistent anorexia (loss of appetite). All
cases reported an absence of abdominal tenderness and a
return of normal appetite by the tenth day. The urine antimony
content exceeded 1.0 milligram of antimony per liter of urine
during the incident and fell rapidly to less than 0.02 milligram
24 hours after exposure. No lung changes or evidence of
persistant intoxication were observed after exposure.

Rodier and Souchere® reported chronic poisoning which
resulted from occupational exposure in Moroccan antimony
mines. Workers complained of mild symptoms including
headaches, sleeplessness, vertigo, appetite loss, and muscular
pains. Antimony was detected in the urine and hair. Although
the blood-cell picture was altered, antimony was not detected in
the blood. Gallina. and Luvoni'" reported cases of antimony
poisoning among workers exposed to antimony pentasulfide
in a Milan glass factory. Among symptoms reported were
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bitter taste in the mouth, and a
characteristic leucocyte copnt shift.

Evidence of Exposure

Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses mechanical
filtration. Two methods previously used are:
1. Impingement and
2. electrostatic precipitation.

The NIOSH approved method for air sample analysis uses
atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Two methods pre-
viously used are:

1. Rhodamine B and

2. 9-methyl-2,3,7-trihydroxy fluor-6-one.

The above are not intended to be exclusive, but alternative
methods should be justified.


Mercury and its compounds
common names:

Chemical Name

have numerous chemical and

Common Names

mercuric ammonium chloride

mercuric arsenate

mercuric-barium bromide

mercuric-barium iodide

mercuric bromate

mercuric bromide

mercuric bromide ammobasic
mercuric bromide diammine
mercuric bromide iodide
mercuric chlorate

mercuric chloride

mercuric chloride diammine
mercuric chloride iodide
mercuric chloroiodide

mercuric chromate

mercury amide chloride,
mercury ammonium chloride

mercury arsenate, mercury-o-
arsenate

barium-mercury bromide,
mercury-barium bromide

barium mercury iodide,
mercury-barium iodide

mercury bromide

bichloride of mercury, caloch-
lor, corrosive mercury chloride,
corrosive sublimate, MC,
mercuric bichloride, mercury
bichloride, mercury
perchloride, perchloride of
mercury

118


9 Jack White - Same as 8 1501/1508 25

10 Jack White - Working 1547/1554 10
approx. center of whse. —
Approximate Time-Weighted Average Exposure 13

< Denotes less than.

Conclusion

In the face of normal X-ray and pulmonary function studies
with no abnormal lung findings on clinical examination,
normal blood count and blood chemistries, no adverse
epidemiologic or toxicologic evidence and the ambient work
environment well below the recommended levels, this case
must be considered nonoccupational in origin. There is no
evidence to indicate that the worker’s symptoms are
occupational in origin.

He does, however, have hypertension. Sleeping flat and
awakening to expectorate may signify a very early stage of
hypertensive heart disease, and some orthopnea would be
expected. Having symptoms for five years without ever seeking
medical attention seems unusual. The conclusion in this case is
that the disease is not bronchitis, but hypertension, and is
nonoccupational.

212


CONTRIBUTORY AGENTS

Disease

Nonoccupational Occupational

1. HEART DISEASE
(cardio-vascular
including coronary
occlusion)

2. HEARING LOSS

3. ARTHRITIS OR
“RHEUMATISM”

4. PULMONARY
(LUNG)
DISEASES

age various chemicals,
heredity solvents, gases
sex pulmonary irritants
smoking unusual exertion
diet stress

obesity temperature

stress

medication or drugs

climate

age noise

heredity foreign body in
noise ear canal
impacted. trauma

cerumen (wax) nasopharyngeal
foreign body in irritants

ear canal

ear infection

nasopharyngitis

medication or drugs

trauma

age repeated articular

heredity movement.

diet trauma

trauma cold, damp work

infection environment

obesity improper lifting

stress work-required poor
posture

age various dusts, gases,

heredity mists, etc.

sex allergens

smoking wearing of

allergy respirators

air pollution decreased oxygen

infection supply

climate temperature,
humidity

17


(4) information about the solubility of the agent
affecting absorption by the body;

(5) possible additional modes of entry of the agent
into the body (inhalation, ingestion, skin
absorption);

(6) available ventilation:

—was general exhaust ventilation provided?

—was local exhaust ventilation provided?

—was it properly designed?

—was it installed to design specifications?

—was it properly maintained? :

—was it properly used by the operator?

—was contaminated exhaust air recirculated into
the plant?

(7) general housekeeping:
—was dry sweeping done?
—were spills cleaned up properly? ..
—was equipment properly maintained and
serviced?
—were all plant areas regularly cleaned?
—were materials stored properly to prevent spills
or leaks?
(8) respiratory protection (While respirators are not

the preferred method of protecting workers from
inhalation of airborne toxic agents, they are
sometimes used until other controls can be install-
ed. They must be used properly to fulfill this
function, and testimony directed toward this
point should be elicited.):

—was the proper type of respirator used? It
should have been selected by an industrial
hygienist for the specific agent involved, and
approved by NIOSH or the Mine Safety and
Health Administration.

—were the respirators fitted properly? Leaks in
the facepiece negate effectiveness.

—did employee use the repirators?

—were cartriges, filters, etc. changed at appro-
priate intervals?

—were employees trained in the proper use,
purpose, and care of respirators?

—were the respirators periodically inspected and
maintained?

b. skin contact, skin absorption, and ingestion.
Evidence should include information regarding:

12


INTRODUCTION

Background

Until this century, suing the employer was the only way for
disabled workers or their families to obtain compensation for
on-the-job injuries. Under common law, workers had to prove
the employer's negligence in order to be compensated for work
injuries. The injured worker, because of this narrow interpreta-
tion of law, found that compensation through the courts was
seldom satisfactory.

By 1920, all but six states had passed workers’ compensation
statutes that sought to remedy past deficiencies and to avoid
costly litigation by making employers responsible for the
economic loss to workers due to injuries sustained at work.

Although the new laws established a more equitable compensa-
tion system, the system has not kept pace with the substantial
changes that have taken place in the last half century in the
labor force, in medical knowledge and techniques, and in
industrial toxicology. In 1970, Congress established a National
Commission on State Workmen’s Compensation Laws to
reexamine the adequacy of the compensation system in light of
these changes. The Commission's published report to the
Congress in 1972 lists the objectives of a modern workers’
compensation program. Included is a statement that all work-
related injuries or diseases should be covered by the compensa-
tion system. The report also states that coverage restricted
to a list of specified occupational diseases is incompatible with
complete protection.


cubic meter. Smith concluded that loss of appetite, weight loss,
and objective tremors were dose-related. Also, when exposure
was greater than 0.10 milligram of mercury per cubic meter,
there was an appreciably higher incidence of abnormal
reflexes.

The following data relating mercury exposure to blood levels
and urine levels have been reported by Smith et al. and are
taken in table form from NIOSH.72

RELATIONSHIP OF MERCURY EXPOSURE
TO BLOOD MERCURY LEVELS*

TWA** Exposure Percentage of Group
Level Groups Number within Blood Level Range
(milligrams per of (micrograms per

cubic meter) Workers 100 milliliters)
<I 15 610 >10

Controls 0.00 117 69.3 30.7 0.0 0.0
<0.01 27 33.3 63.0 3.7 0.0
0.01-0.05 175 20.6 74.9 4.0 0.6
0.06-0.10 7 10.4 81.8 65 1.3
0.11-0.14 53 3.8 226 26.4 47.2
0.24-0.27 26 0.0 #192 269 53.9

(Smith et al., 1970 and NIOSH, 1973)

*Expressed as percentage of each exposure level group with
designated ranges of blood mercury levels.

**Time-weighted averages

The data support Elkins’ suggestion of a “biological threshold
value,” a urine level of 0.25 milligram of mercury per liter.
Smith reports a corresponding blood level of about 6 micro-
grams of mercury per 100 milliliters.

130


Central nervous system symptoms are:

—Brain dysfunction (encephalopathy) which may mimic
bacterial meningitis. However, cerebrospinal fluid glu-
cose level is normal. Symptoms include:
~Fever,
~headache,

-stiff neck,
-vomiting, and
—personality changes.

—tremor,

—hallucinations,

—intellectual deterioration,

—rarely, accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the
brain (hydrocephalus),

—blindness may occur from optical atrophy (wasting away
of the optic nerve) secondry to lead exposure, and

—convulsions.

Gastrointestinal symptoms are:
—Colon spasms (colic),
—nausea, vomiting,

—loss of appetite, and
—constipation.

Signs and symptoms associated with the blood and blaod-
forming tissues are:
—Anemia, in which the red blood cells have a reduced
hemoglobin content (hypochromic normocytic type) and
—increased serum iron.

The marrow also reveals increased production, and specific
structural (morphological) changes in nucleated red corpuscles
(erythroblasts) such as:

~—Basophilic stippling and

—deformed nuclei.

The iron content of the marrow is increased, and increased
siderocytes, sideroblasts and reticuloendthelial cells are noted.
Some investigators believe the basic effect lead has on the bone
marrow is first hyperstimulation, followed by delayed matura-
tion.

108


Chronic Poisoning

Chronic benzene poisoning can occur from daily inhalation
of benzene. The clinical manifestations of chronic benzene
poisoning tend to be insidious in onset and are nonspecific.
They resemble those of many other diseases:

—Loas of appetite (anorexia),

—headache,

—weight loss,

—dizziness,

—irritability and nervousness,

—nausea, and

—tiredness, lassitude, weariness, fatigue and weakness.

Other symptoms may include:

—Pallor,

—tendency to bruise easily,

—bleeding gums,

—nose bleeds,

—retinal hemorrhages, and

—excessive bleeding at the time of menstruation
(menorrhagia).

Benzene exposure predisposes to leukemia of the following
types: Chronic myeloid, chronic lymphatic, and acute
myeloblastic.

Laboratory and Clinical Evaluations

Additional data which will assist in arriving at a correct
diagnosis are:

Blood

—arterial blood benzene level

—red blood cells destroyed at a rapid rate (hemolysis)

—elevated young red blood cel] count (reticulocytosis)

—reduced platelet count (thrombocytopenia)

—reduced white blood cell count (leucopenia), an early sign

—drastic reduction in red blood cells (aplastic anemia)

—increased mean corpuscular volume (average volume of
red blood cells)

—reduced hemoglobin (that part of the red blood cell that
carries oxygen)

67


2 John Doe Weighing 0900/ 1.33 <0.001 0.021 0.007

and mixing 1100
pigments.

3 John Doe-Mixing 1100/5 1.21 <0.001 0.050 0.042
and packaging 1300
pigments; 30 minute
lunch.

4 John Doe-Plant 1300/ 0.75 ~<0.001 0.027 0,003
cleanup 1500

Time-Weighted

Average Exposures: 0.94 <0.001 0.025 0.013

<Denotes less than.

It can be clearly seen from Table I that the employee’s exposure
to arsenic was the only exposure evaluated which exceeded the
allowable limit (in this case nearly twice the permitted
exposure). Exposures to nickel, lead, and chromium were well
within the eight hour time-weighted average limits and
continued exposure at the levels evaluated should not result in
any health hazards.

Contaminants in the Work Environment

Hyperpigmentation has been reported among employees
exposed to arsenic concentrations ranging from 0.110-4.038
milligrams per cubic meter of air (0.562 milligrams per cubic
meter was the mean exposure). (Dinman, B.D. 1960. J. Occ.
Med. 2:137.) This would conform with the clinical evaluation in
this specific case where the average exposure to arsenic was
0.94 milligrams per cubic meter of air and hyperpigmentation
was observed.

Laboratory findings indicated absorption of arsenic by urinary
arsenic levels of 0.9 milligrams per liter. Toxicological data
would also imply increased urinary arsenic levels at the
atmospheric concentrations evaluated as indicated by the
report of an average urinary arsenic level of 0.23 milligrams per
liter in workers exposed to mean air concentrations of 0.562
milligrams arsenic per cubic meter.

205


A'competent medical person is:
1. A physician, judged competent in one of the several
disciplines of medicine, and
2. specially trained in the particular expertise required for
the testimony to be presented. In determining occupa-
tional causation of disease, such expertise would
include intimate knowledge of the work environment.

For compensation purposes, a medical specialist—such as an
internist, pathologist, surgeon, specialist in chest diseases, or
an occupational health physician—is usually a competent
medical person, but not in all instances.

For example, in a compensation case involving a question of
occupational lung disease, the chest specialist can certainly
use his or her expertise to diagnose a chest condition. But
unless such a specialist is familiar with the work history and
exposure of the employee, and has the background to coordi-
nate and evaluate toxicological, epidemiologic, and industrial
hygiene information in terms of the medical condition, that
specialist should not be considered competent to render an
expert opinion regarding the occupational origin of the disease
condition.

Generally, a physician certified in occupational medicine is a
competent medical person. Occasionally, however, the physi-
cian’s particular work experience does not include an under-
standing of the exposure issues involved, such as carcinogenic
factors. In the examples given, two physicians may be required
to provide the expert opinion.

It is important for the medically competent person to maintain
impartiality and to have an understanding of labor and indus-
try. Almost all persons, medical and otherwise, who testify in
compensation cases have some degree of bias, This does not
invalidate their testimony. However, the examiner should
consider the extent, nature, and effect, if any, of expert bias
in arriving at his decision.

It is the duty and responsibility of a compensation hearing
officer, lawyer, or any interested person to be aware of the re-
quirements for medical competency in order to assure sound
decisions. The following should be considered in judging
medical competence:
1. Is the physician certified in occupational medicine by
the American Board of Preventive Medicine?

22


In a study of 70 workers, “aged 26 to 48, exposed for 6 to 8 hours
daily for 4 to 6 years in a chemical plant to what was described
as oxides of nitrogen, Kosider et al.”* reported concentrations
between 0.4 and 2.7 ppm as nitrogen dioxide. Sampling and
analysis methods were not reported. A control group of 80
workers of similar ages who were not exposed to nitrogen
oxides was selected, and workers smoking more than 10
cigarettes daily were excluded from both groups. Workers
exposed to nitrogen dioxide complained of sporadic cough with
mucopurulent expectoration and dyspnea on exertion. Fine
bubbling rales and ‘whistling’ sounds were heard in some men,
primarily over the lower lungs. There were no chest X-ray
abnormalities noted.”

Over a period of 18 months, Tse and Bockman’? observed 4
firemen with acute toxic reactions due to accidental inhalation
of nitrogen dioxide which originated from a leak in a chemical
plant. Environmental measurements were not made but reports
indicated the presence of dense, reddish brown fumes.
Pulmonary function data for the firemen who experienced
every phase of the illness including the eventual development
of chronic pulmonary insufficiency follow:

PULMONARY FUNCTION DATA

Predicted Date
Normal 11/2/66 5/9/67 2/28/68

Vital Capacity (ml) 3,943 3,000 2,750 2,650
RV/TLC' (3%) 23 45 46 53
FEV,’ (% of vital

capacity) 719 51 61 70
FEV;‘ (% of vital

capacity) 95 73 87 100

Maximum Mid-
Expiratory Flow

(liters/min) 130-395 45 60 65
Maximal Breathing

Capacity

(liters/min) 133 62 86 71

141



Stone cutters Silica

Stone planers Silica
Storage battery chargers Sulfur dioxide
Storage battery workers Antimony, lead
Straw bleachers Sulfur dioxide
Street sweepers Silica
Stripper operators, cotton Cotton dust
Stripper operators, Cotton dust
cotton mill
Styrene makers Benzene
Steel making Noise
Steel makers Carbon monoxide
Stokers Carbon monoxide
Stone products industries Noise, silica
(cement mills)
Stone workers Noise, silica
Submarine workers Arsenic
Subway construction Silica
workers
Sugar refiners Sulfur dioxide
Sulfite makers Sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxide workers Sulfur dioxide
Sulfurers, malt and hops Sulfur dioxide
Sulfuric acid makers Arsenic, nitrogen dioxide,
sulfur dioxide
Sulfuric acid workers Arsenic, sulfur dioxide
Switch makers Mercury
Synthetic fiber makers Benzene
Tanners Arsenic, lead, mercury, sulfur
dioxide
Tar workers Arsenic
Taxidermists Arsenic, mercury
Talc miners Asbestos
Talc workers Asbestos
Tannery workers Lead, sulfur dioxide
Television picture tube Lead
makers
Temperers Lead
Textile bleachers Sulfur dioxide
Textile bleachers, rayon Nitrogen dioxide
Textile dryers Antimony
Textile flame-proofers Antimony
Textile processors Lead
Textile printers Antimony, arsenic, mercury
Textile makers Lead

237





It should be noted that the acute and usually delayed effects
of higher concentrations of nitrogen dioxide are well estab-
lished but the critical concentration needed to produce either
acute or pulmonary edema or bronchiolitis fibrosa obliterans is
not known. In addition, subacute and chronic responses to low
levels of exposure to nitrogen dioxide are not well-established
or defined in the human.

Muller?’ reported a study of 7 workers or guests who were
exposed to nitrogen dioxide during the final blast which would
connect 2 parts of a tunnel under construction. No environ-
mental measurements are available. Two of them were
hospitalized shortly after the explosion, and the third was
hospitalized 12 days later after exposure during a second
explosion. After the acute disease, the most common
complaints were bronchitis, cough, sputum, and exertional
dyspnea. Seven months after the accident, 4 of the exposed
group had a 1 second forced expiratory volume (FEV)) of less
than 70%. Within 7 to 14 months after the accident, 5 recovered
completely; 2 who suffered from a mild bronchitis previous to
the accident had a worsening of symptoms afterwards and were
unable to carry out normal duties. The following table from the
report presents latency periods and bridging symptoms.

LATENCY PERIODS AND BRIDGING SYMPTOMS
FROM 7 CASE STUDIES OF ACCIDENTAL
NITROGEN DIOXIDE EXPOSURE

CASE LATENT PERIOD BRIDGING SYMPTOMS

1 4 weeks Dull pressure in chest
Fatigue, moderate dyspnea
Irritating cough
Temperature
Severe dyspnea
24 days
hospitalization

2 none none
(gradual worsening of
respiration)

139



Williamson''4 reported a study of 18 workers exposed to air
concentrations of TDI generally below 0.02 ppm except for a
brief exposure (not more than 10 minutes) to at least 0.2 ppm
after a spill. Over a 14-month period, no differences in
ventilatory measurements were detected within a work-shift
from Monday to Friday. It was reported that none of the men
suffered illness attributed to TDI or developed TDI
sensitization during this study.

Maxon!"* reported a study of 7 workers exposed to TDI in a

lastic varnish plant. Environmental data was minimal
because only 3 measurements of TDI in air were made (0.08
ppm, 0.10 ppm, and 0.12 ppm). Symptoms developed within '4
hour to 3 weeks following initial exposure. All workers had
cough and dyspnea and 4 had hemotysis. There was evidence
that 4 workers had become sensitized to TDI.

Bruchner et al.''* reported a study of 26 workers exposed to a
range of 0.0-2.4 ppm isocyanates and a range of median values
of 0.0-0.033 ppm over an 11-year period. The workers were
engaged in research and development and production of
isocyanates, presumably including TDI. 5 workers showed
minimal symptoms of muscous membrane irritation, 16
showed marked irritation of the respiratory tract, and 5 were
sensitized. 4 of the 5 sensitized workers showed a positive

- lymphocyte transformation test (an indication of an
immunologic allergic sensitization) using T])I-human serum
albumin conjugate as the antigen.

Peters''? reported a long-term study of ventilatory
measurements on workers repeatly exposed to TDI. Initial
atmospheric concentrations of TDI ranged from 0.0001-0.0030
ppm and later concentrations ranged from 0.000-0.0120 ppm.
After exposure to TI)I on the first day of this study, decreases
were reported in the forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV 1.0, peak
flow rate (PFR), and flow rate at 50% and 25% of vital capacity
of all 38 workers studied. At the end of the first week, FVC had
returned to baseline but mean FEV 1.0 was still depressed and
mean flow rates were even more depressed. A follow-up was
made six months later on 28 of the workers still available. As a
group, the 28 showed decrease in mean FEV 1.0, FEV 1.0/F VC,
and in flow rates. 8 workers had cough and phlegm. Continued
decline in FEV 1.0 was reported in the workers studies al six
month intervals for a total of two years.

182


CHAPTER VIII — EXAMPLES OF
THE METHOD

The following text of the guide presents information on
fourteen selected disease-producing agents to illustrate the use
of the decision-making method previously described. The
examples presented are antimony, inorganic arsenic, asbestos,
benzene, carbon monoxide, coke oven emissions, cotton dust,
inorganic lead, inorganic mercury, nitrogen dioxide, noise,
crystalline silica, sulfur dioxide, and toluene diisocyanate.

Different and additional agents could have been presented, and
consideration will be given to such publication if experience
with the guide indicates a demand for such agent information.
As a group, however, the above agents exemplify both acute
and chronic effects. They represent different physical forms:
Solid fibers, physical agents, particulates, fumes, and vapors.
In their health effects these agents involve many organ
systems: Respiratory system, central nervous system, hepatic
system, genitourinary system, blood forming (hematopoietic)
organs, and other systemic effects, as well as carcinogenic
action. The organization of the agent material presented in the
following pages can serve as a guide for collecting and record-
ing pertinent information about other disease-producing
agents.


Over 16:

Cases of silicosis 13 33 10 5 4
Workers exposed 363 174 21 7 5
Percentage 4 19 48 71 80

(Flinn et al., 1939 and NIOSH, 1974)

*Includes Ist, 2nd, and 3rd stage cases.

Flinn et al. suggested that new cases of silicosis would not
develop if the dust concentration in potteries could be brought
below 4 mppcf.

Rajhans and Budlovsky®* reported a study of 1,166 production
workers in 10 brick and tile plants in Ontario in which no cases
of silicosis were found. Workers had been exposed for 1 to 30
years to mean workplace dust concentrations ranging from 12
to 1,026 mppcf. Average respirable dust concentrations ranged
from 1.05 to 4.26 milligrams per cubic meter and had a free
silica content of approximately 13%. Rajhan and Budlovsky
suggested that progression of the silicotic process was inhibited
by the 14% alumina content in the clays and tiles used to
manufacture brick and tile. In an earlier study in 3 British brick
plants, Keatinge and Potter® reported similar findings and
concluded that excessive occupational hazards were not
associated with brick making.

Theriault et al. '°°191102 yeported a comprehensive study of
approximately 800 workers from 13 occupational groups in 49
granite sheds. Granite dust and quartz were reported to cause
significant decreases in FVC, FEV,, and total lung volume but
Not in residual volume. Of 784 workers, 233 had X-rays classed
as abnormal which showed opacities compatible with
Pneumoconiosis.'!" Workers with abnormal X-rays had been
exposed to an average of 2.3 times more dust than workers
having normal X-rays. Theriault et al. concluded that
pulmonary function measurements are more sensitive
indicators of the effect of granite dust than chest
roentgenograms.

In a 1-year study of 869 workers in 5 diatomite plants, Cooper

and Cralley'TM suggested that nearly all presumptive abnormal
chest roentgenograms found in 156 workers were associated

164


Evidence of Exposure

Sampling and Analysis

The two most commonly used methods for the collection of air
samples for toluene diisocyanate are:

1. The Ranta method and
2. the Marcali method.

These methods are not intended to be exclusive, but other
methods should be justified.

There are also available a number of field instruments for the
determination of TDI concentrations in air. Many of them are
based on modifications of the Marcali sampling method.

Allowable Exposure Limits

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) limits exposure to toluene diisocyanate to 0.02 parts
per million parts of air by volume. This is a Ceiling Limit which
should never be exceeded. These allowable levels may not be
safe for all persons.

Conclusion

Diagnostic criteria for occupational toluene diisocyanate
poisoning are based on meeting the following:

1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to TDI
vapor,

. clinical findings compatible with the respiratory
syndrome as outlined above,

. progressive decrease in lung capacity, and

. progressive increase in eosinophil count.

ao LD

184


(iii) Any physician who conducts a medical exami-
nation required by this paragraph shall furnish to
the employer a statement of the employee's
suitability for employment in the specific
exposure.

MEDICAL HISTORY EMPHASIS ITEMS

1.

10.
11.

Previous exposures to benzene and any other hematologic
toxin; blood dyscrasias including genetically related
hemoglobin alterations, bleeding abnormalities and
abnormalities in the function of formed blood elements;
renal disease; liver disease; alcoholic intake and infection.

. Respiratory symptoms, i.e, breathlessness, cough, sputum.

production and wheezing.

. Nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances and use of alcohol

and barbiturates.

. G.' I. symptoms and mental status. Review alcohol

consumption.

. Skin or pulmonary sensitization or a skin or mucous

membrane condition that may promote response to
chromic acid,

. Potential skin or pulmonary sensitization, a skin or

mucous membrane condition that may be exacerbated by
chromium (VI), smoking habits and history of liver or
kidney disease.

. Presence and degree of respiratory symptoms (breathless-

ness, cough, sputum production and wheezing.

. Respiratory allergy, chronic obstructive lung disease,

cardio-pulmonary symptoms, smoking. (Respiratory
questionnaire included).

. Respiratory disease.

Respiratory and renal disease.

Musculoskeletal, pulmonary and G. I. symptoms and
kidney dysfunction.


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9 or faa gt £& fd @ (| s¥souyseXq nous M
v1 0 0 br u e L ‘sysOUrss AG WIT
siguutdg)
8 ba st 1% €e a 18 Imo)
L 8 ar SI 9% 9 9, | s}s0wyse4q ynoyay mM,
er x4 98 +9 28 16 ae Sysouysedq WIT
8190094]
’ or ar ze or uy 6 [eo]
I b 6 ¥% ze Le 49 |sIsourss4q ynoyT MA
or cd Ne og Lg le a syeourse<q UTM
siapae;
(%) (%) (%) (%) (%) w8eI4d | (%) y8n0Q | siays04)
suey SHTYoUCIg! (10M Woy | Suyzoaym | jusjs1e10g quazsisi9g jo
PeH AeuL | PeH Meu} aouseqy) | yue;81s10g azequmy
Pesareg Peagyog | s189X a0Iq
7887] ay
uy seauTTT

SISONISSAG LNOHLIM ASOHL NI CNV SISONISSAG HLIM SUAAVAM CNV

‘SYANNIdS ‘SHACUVO ATVW NI SHOLGWAS AYOLVUIdSAY



Nitrogen oxides formed from green silage may produce "silo-
filler’s disease” and or bronchiolitis fibrosa obliterans. It may
develop within a few days or 6 weeks and is accompanied by:

—Fever,

—severe and progressive dyspnea, and

—cyanosis.

Silo filler’s disease may also progress to chronic pulmonary
obstruction.

Chronic Exposure

—pulmonary dysfunction
-decreased vital and breathing capacities
-decreased lung compliance
-increased residual volume

—low arterial oxygen saturation

—dyspnea on exertion

—moist rales and wheezes

—sporadic cough with mucopurlent expectoration
(consisting of mucus and pus)

—methemoglobinemia, usually mild and transient.
Persons with genetic susceptibility may develop toxic
levels of methemoglobin

Laboratory and Clinical Examinations

Additiona] data that will assist in arriving at a correct
dignosis are:

—Chest X-ray of acute exposure shows diffuse, reticular
fine, nodular infiltration, or numerous scattered nodular
densities (1 to 5 millimeters in diameter),

—decreased blood pH,

—decreased serum proteins, and

—ihcreased urinary hydroxyproline and acid mucopoly-
saccharides.

Epidemiology

When considering exposure to nitrogen dioxide, both concen-
tration and exposure time must be evaluated. There is sufficient
data to conclude that the primary irritant effects of nitrogen
dioxide are dose-related.

138


concentration. Smoking has been found to be significantly
associated with byssinosis for workers in opening, picking, and
carding operations.

Byssinosis is similar in many respects to nonoccupational
bronchitis and emphysema and is often confused with it,
especially in advanced stages when symptoms of shortness of
breath and tightness of the chest are severe every day.

The following is a listing of. occupations with potential
exposure to cotton dust:

Occupations with Potential Exposure to Cotton Dust

beaming operators openers (cotton mill)
(cotton mill)
carders (cotton mill) Pickers (cotton mill)
carding machine operators _ press box operators
(cotton mill) (cotton mill)
cleaner operators roving frame operators
(cotton mill) : (cotton mill)
cleaners (cotton mill) slashing operators (cotton mill)

combining machine operator spindle pickers (cotton)
(cotton mil])

-drawing frame operators spinners (cotton mill)
(cotton mill)

dryer operators (cotton mill) spooling operators (cotton mill)

gin stand operators stripper operators (cotton)
(cotton gin)

ginners . stripper operators (cotton mill)

grinders (cotton mill) twisters (cotton mill)

handpickers (cotton) weavers (cotton mill)

lint cleaner operators
(cotton mill)

Medical Evaluation and Differential
Diagnosis
(See also Decision-Making Process)
. The following should be considered in the Medical
Evaluation:
—Respiratory allergy,
—chronic lung disease,
—other diseases of the cardiopulmonary system, and
—smoking.

89


41.

42.

. In a quarry?
37.

. In a pottery?

In a foundry?

. In a cotton, flax or hemp mill? — Ss _§—S— =_E

40.

With asbestos? __

In any other dusty job? __-_-___—SS _E
If ‘YES’, specify ——__

Have you ever been exposed regularly
to irritating gas or chemical fumes? —_
If ‘YES’, give details of nature and
duration ——_____________

Occupation (Follow-Up only)

43.
44.

45.

What is your present job?

How long have you been doing it?

What was your previous job in the factory?

Taken with minor changes from Operating and Medical Codes
of Practice for Safe Working with Toluene Diisocyanate,
Health Advisory Committee, British Rubber Manufacturers’
Association Ltd.

217


APPENDIX A-2
BIBLIOGRAPHY

Antimony

Allison, A. C.; and Patton, G. R. 1972. Mutation Res. 16:332.
Bromberger-Barnea, B.; and Stephens, N. L. 1965. AIHA J.
26:404.

Browning, E. 1969. Toxicology of Industrial Metals. 2nd ed.
London: Butterworth.

Daum, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1963. Work is Dangerous to
Your Health. New York: Random House.

Elkins, H. B. 1959. The Chemistry of Industrial Toxicology. 2nd
ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Key, M. M.; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases—A Guide

to Their Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
Office.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, S2 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Patty, F. A. ed. 1963. Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. 2nd
ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Sax, N. I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Schroeder, H. A. 1974. The Poisons Around Us. Bloomington:
Indiana University Press.

191


CHAPTER III —
EPIDEMIOLOGY

Epidemiology is the branch of medical science that deals
with the incidence, prevalence, distribution, and control of the
diseases that occur amongst human populations. It is the study
of the distribution and determinants of disease frequency in
man.

Epidemiology is concerned, among other things, with meas-
uring the frequency of illnesses and deaths in certain popula-
tion groups and with the study of the relationship between
exposure and incidence of disease. Thus, studies of illness in
groups of workers have made it possible to relate some diseases
to various substances with which the workers had been in
contact. Epidemiologic studies point up possible associations
but do not prove cause-effect relationships.

Epidemiologic studies of coal miners demonstrated that
prolonged exposure to coal mine dust could produce the
crippling lung disease, coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (black
lung). Other studies have shown the relationship between
workers’ illness and exposure to sugar cane dust (bagassosis),
cotton dust (byssinosis), silica dust (silicosis), and various
fibrous silicates (asbestosis).

Epidemiologic studies have often revealed the carcinogenic
action of certain substances and chemicals. Some studies were
simply descriptive accounts of observed effects. Scrotal cancer
was noted in English chimney sweeps two hundred years ago,
and skin cancers in chromium workers at the turn of the last
century. More recent studies have shown the carcinogenic
properties of arsenic, vinyl chloride, ionizing radiation, and
other agents.


In a study of 509 cotton textile workers, Schrag and Gullett®>
classified 63 (12%) as having byssinosis. Twenty-nine percent
(29%) of cardroom workers, 10% of weavers, and 9% of spinners
had byssinosis. Dust concentrations ranged from 0.3 milligram
per cubic meter to 5.8 milligram per cubic meter. The table
on the next page, taken from the report, summarizes respira-
tory symptoms among the workers studied.

Workers with byssinosis had a significantly lower average
FEV; than did workers without byssinosis when this measure-
ment was made in the middle of the week. Schrag and Gullett
concluded ‘that a single measurement of FEV, would not
identify all symptomatic workers.

Molyneux and Tombleson* report a 3-year study of 1,359cotton
workers and 227 man-made fiber workers in 14 cotton spinning
and 2 man-made fiber spinning mills. Total dust levels aver-
aged 3,1 milligram per cubic meter in cotton fiber coarse mills
and 1.2 milligram per cubic meter in cotton fiber medium mills.
The total prevalence of byssinosis, 26.9%, was higher in coarse
fiber than in medium fiber cotton mills. [The count of yarn spun
in the medium mills ranged from 10 to 50 (60 to 12 Tex) and 1 to
24 (600 to 25 Tex) in the coarse mills.) In the coarse mills, symp-
toms developed in some men and women within the first 4 years
of exposure;-in medium mills, symptoms developed between 5
and 10 years’ exposure. Symptoms similar to those of byssino-
sis occurred in 10 (4.4%) of the total population of the man-made
fiber mills; however, all 10 had a previous history of exposure
to cotton dust.

Ina study of 10,133 workers employed in 19 plants that process
raw cotton in the manufacture of yarn, Imbus and Suh*” found
a marked relationship between the incidence of byssinosis and
bronchitis and lowered pulmonary function. Cigarette
smoking appeared to further increase the incidence of bron-
chitis and lower pulmonary function. A drop in FEV, during
the working day, though associated with, was often present
without byssinosis symptoms.

Merchant et al.®# reported a study of 441 workers employed ina
modern cotton-synthetic blend mill in which 20% of those work-
ing in preparation areas, 2% of those in yarn processing areas,
and 6% of all employees were diagnosed as byssinotic. Among
men, the byssinosis index increased with smoking, and the
bronchitis index increased with smoking plus dust exposure.
Byssinotic workers were found to have more chronic bronchi-
tis and dyspnea than matched control workers.

95


APPENDIX A-1

EPIDEMIOLOGIC REFERENCES

Antimony

22 NooAo we

_
°

. Brieger, H.; et al. 1954. Ind. Med. Surg. 23:521.
. Cooper, D. A.; et al. 1968. Am. J. Roentgenol. Radium

Ther. Nucl. Med. 103:495.
Renes, L. E. 1953. Arch, Ind. Hyg. 7:99.
McCallum, R. I. 1963. Ann. Occupat. Hyg. 6:60.

. McCallum, R. I. 1965. Lancet. 2:882.

McCallun, R. 1. 1967. Trans. Soc. Occup. Med. 17:134.

. Karajovic, D, 1957. Proc. 12th Internat. Congress Occu-

pational Health, Helsinki. 370.

|. Taylor, P. J. 1966. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 23:318.
. Rodier, J., and Souchere, G. 1955. Bull. Inst. Hyg. Maroc

15:93.

. Gallina, R., and Luvoni, R. 1958. Rass. Med. Ind. 27:28.

Inorganic Arsenic

11.
12.
13.
14,
15.
16.

17.
18.

Pinto, S. S.; et al. 1976. J. Occup. Med, 18:677.

NIOSH. 1975. Criteria for a Recommended Standard -
Occupational Exposure to Inorganic Arsenic (HEW
Publication No. 75-149). Cincinnati: NIOSH.
Butzengeiger, K. H. 1940. Klin. Wochenscher. 19:523.
German.

Butzengeiger, K. H. 1949. Dtsch. Arch. Klin. Med. 194:1.
German.

Lee, A. M.; and Fraumeni, J. R. 1969. J. Natl. Cancer
Inst. 42:1045.

Perry, K.; et al. 1948. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 5:6.
Birminghan, D. J.; et al. 1965. Arch. Derm. 91:457.
Milhan, S., Jr.; and Strong, T. 1974. Environ. Res. 7:176.

Asbestos

19.

20.

Enterline, P.; et al. A Study of the Dose-Response Rela-
tionship Asbestos Dust and Lung Cancer. Unpublished
manuscript.

NIOSH. 1972. Criteria for a Recommended Standard-
Occupational Exposure to Asbestos. Cincinnati: NIOSH.

185


absorption while urinary coproporphyrin (CP) (nitrogen-
containing organic compounds) and delta-aminolevulinic acid
(ALA) are reliable indicators of effect (Benson, 1976).

Lead and its compounds have numerous chemical and common

names:

Chemica] Name

Common Names

lead

lead antimonate
lead azide

lead blue

lead m-borate
lead borosilicate
lead bromate
lead bromide
lead carbonate

lead carbonate, basic

lead chlorate

lead chloride

lead chloride, basic
lead chloride fluoride
lead chlorite

lead, chocolate

C.I. Pigment Metal 4, C.I. 77575,
lead flake, plumbum, lead S2,
$1, KS-4

antimony yellow, Naples yellow

galena, blue basic lead sulfate

lead metaborate

cerussete, cerussite, white lead
BCWL, ceruse, hydrocerussite,

leadflake, lead subcarbonate,
white lead

cotunite

basic lead chloride, mendipite

matlockite

100


Bakers

Battery (dry) makers

Beaming operators,
cotton mill

Beet sugar bleachers

Belt scourers

Benzene hexachloride makers

Benzene workers

Bisque-kiln workers

Blacksmiths

Blast furnace workers

Bleaching powder makers
Blueprinters

Blast furnace gas users
Blockers (felt hat)
Boiler makers

Boiler operators

Boiler water treaters
Bone extractors
Bookbinders

Bottle cap makers
Boiler rooms

Boiler room workers
Brakelining makers
Brass cleaners

Brass founders

Brass makers

Brass polishers
Braziers

Brewery workers

Brick layers

Brick makers

Bright dip workers
Britannia metal workers
Bronze cleaners

Bronze makers
Bronzers

Broommakers
Brush makers
Brewers

Brick burners
Brickmakers
Buffers

Carbon monoxide
Benzene
Cotton dust

Sulfur dioxide

Benzene

Benzene

Benzene

Silica, carbon monoxide

Lead, carbon monoxide

Sulfur dioxide, carbon
monoxide

Arsenic

Nitrogen dioxide

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide

Mercury

Arsenic

Sulfur dioxide

Sulfur dioxide

Arsenic, lead

Lead

Noise

Carbon monoxide

Benzene, asbestos

Nitrogen dioxide

Antimony, carbon monoxide

Arsenic

Lead

Lead, nitrogen dioxide

Sulfur dioxide

Lead, silica

Lead, silica, sulfur dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide

Antimony

Nitrogen dioxide

Arsenic

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
lead, mercury

Sulfur dioxide

Lead

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide

Sulfur dioxide

Silica

221


Heppleston, A. G. 1968. Brit. Med. Bull. 25:282.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Jacobson, G.; and Lainhart, W. S., eds. 1972. Med. Radiogr.
Photogr. 48:65.

Key, M. M.; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases—A Guide to
Their Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
Office.

Montgomery, C. H.; and Synder, H-. B. 1975. J. Occup. Med.
17:523.

Morgan, W. K. C.; and Seaton, A. 1975. Occupational Lung
Diseases. Philadelphia: W. A. Saunders Company.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, S315 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Patty, F. A. ed. 1963. Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. 2nd
ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Pintar, K.; et al. 1976. Arch. Pathol. Lab. Med. 100:535.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology. New
York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Sax, N. I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Suratt, P. M.; et al. 1977. Am. Rev. Respir. Dis. 115:521.
Vitums, V. D.; et al. 1977. Arch. Environ. Health. 34:62.

Sulfur Dioxide

Amdur, M. O.; et al. 1953. Lancet. 265:758.
Andersen, I.; et al. 1974. Arch. Envirn. Health. 28:31.
Anderson, A. 1950. Brit. J. Industr. Med. 7:82.

Daum, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1973. Work Is Dangerous to
Your Health. New York: Random House.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

199


Toluene Diisocyanate

110. NIOSH. 1973. Criteria for a Recommended Standard -
Occupational Exposure to Toluene Diisocyanate.
Cincinnati: NIOSH.

111. Walworth, H. T.; and Virchow, W. E. 1959. AIHA J.
20:205.

112. Elkins, H. B.; et al. 1962. AIHA J. 23:265.

113. Glass, W. 1.; and Thom, N. G. 1964. M. Z. Med. J. 63:642.

114. Williamson, K. S. 1964. Trans. Assoc. Ind. Med. Off.
14:81.

115. Maxon, F. C. 1964. Arch. Env: Health. 8:755.

116. Bruckner, H. C.; et al. 1968. Arch. Env. Health. 16:619.

117. Peters, J. M.; et al. 1968. Arch. Env. Health. 16:642.

190


Conclusion

Diagnostic criteria for occupational lead poisoning are based
on meeting the following:
1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to lead,
2. findings compatible with lead poisoning, and
3. increased lead in blood and/or urine.

NOTE: A diagnosis of lead poisoning does not necessarily
mean that it is occupational in origin. Further, lead intoxi-
cation with symptoms can exist with normal laboratory test
findings.

The medical literature has extensive references to the treat-
ment of lead toxicity. Basically, there are 3 types of drugs
currently known to be effective in treating lead toxicity:
calcium-ethylenediaminetetra-acetic acid (Ca-EDTA), British
anti-lewisite (BAL), and PeniciJlamine (PCA). Treatment
usually depends upon the severity of symptoms and available
laboratory data. Because the chemicals used in the treatment of
lead poisoning are not without their own toxicities, their use in
exposed workers should be followed closely with repeat blood
levels and urinalysis.

116


Benzene

Introduction

Benzene, an aromatic organic compound, is a colorless liquid
that is a good solvent for many other organic compounds. It is
commonly called benzol and in high doses exerts an acute nar-
cotic action on the body. Because of benzene’s extreme toxicity,
less toxic substances are now being substituted for it in indus-
tries such as artificial leather manufacture, rubber products
manufacture, and printing.

Absorption of benzene through inhalation is the most impor-
tant route of entry in industria] exposures. Benzene interferes
with the body’s blood forming system and can cause such dis-
turbances as leukopenia (reduction in the number of white
blood cells), aplastic anemia (a drastic reduction in the number
of red blood cells), thrombocytopenia (reduction in the number
of platelets), and leukemia. Prolonged or repeated skin ex-
posure can result in the development of blisters, erythema
(localized redness), and a dry, scaly dermatis.

Long latency periods of 10 to 15 years from the time of exposure
to the development of disease are possible. In addition, signs
and symptoms of toxicity may persist after treatment.

The following is a listing of common names for benzene
followed by a listing of occupations with potential exposures to
ene:

Common Names

benzin cyclohexatriene
benzine motor benzol
benzol mineral naphtha
benzole phene

benzolene phenyl hydride
bicarburet of hydrogen pyrobenzol
carbon oil pyrobenzole

coal naphtha

63




Aksoy et al.26 reported a study of 217 workers exposed to
benzene for periods of 3 months to 17 years in small shops
manufacturing shoes under poorly ventilated conditions.
Benzene exposures ranged between 30 and 210 parts per million
(ppm). Fifty-one (23.5%) of the workers showed hemotological
abnormalities, consisting of leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, or
pancytopenia. No cases of leukemia were observed.

In a 7-year study of 28,500 shoeworkers who were chronically
exposed to a range of 150-650 ppm benzene for from 4 months to
20 years, Aksoy et al.?” reported on 34 workers who had various
types of leukemia. Acute myeloblastic leukemia was the most
frequent type (14 workers, 41.1%), followed by preleukemic (6
workers, 17.6%), acute erythroleukemia (6 workers, 17.6%), and
acute lymphoblastic leukemia (4 workers, 11.7%). Among 31
shoeworkers, the incidence of leukemia of 13.5 per 100,000
was significantly greater (P<0.001) than the overall
incidence of leukemia in the general population which was 6
per 100,000. It was reported that there was a decline in the
number of cases in the last year of the study which may be
attributed to the prohibition of the use of benzene.

Forni et al.24 and Hartwick and Schwanitz”? reported benzene-
induced chromosome changes in peripheral blood lymphocytes
or bone marrow. In followup studies, Forni observed signifi-
cantly increased rates of “unstable” and “‘stable” chromosome
aberrations which persisted several years after exposure to
benzene had ceased and clinical recovery from the poisoning
had occurred.

From the data Greenberg’ collected, he concluded that cases
showing less than 5,000 white blood cells per cubic millimeter
should be considered positive; 7,500 to 9,000 was considered the
normal count.

Hardy and Elkins” reported “that levels of benzene exposure
ranging from 40-80 ppm with an estimated average of 60 ppm in
the artificial leather industry had produced deviations in more
than 1 blood element in 16 out of 52 workers exposed.”

Juzwiak®? reported a study of “585 workers in 13 shoe plants
who had been exposed to benzene in a glue mixture. Mean
concentrations of benzene fluctuated from 31-156 ppm.
Reduced red blood cell counts, white blood cell counts, and
hemoglobin levels were reported. Ninety-one percent (91%) of

69


Key, M. M.; et al. eds. 1977. Occupational Diseases—A Guide to
Their Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
Office.

Hunter, D. 1975. The Diseases of Occupations. 5th ed. Boston:
Little, Brown.

Hygiene Guide Series. Akron: American Industrial Hygiene
Association.

Lee, S. D. ed. 1977. Biochemical Effects of Environmental
Pollutants. Ann Harbor: Ann Harbor Science Publishers, Inc.

NIOSH. 1977. Manual of Sampling Data Sheets, 32 (DHEW
Publication No. 77-159). Cincinnati: NIOSH.

Oreshek, J.; et al. 1976. J. Clin. Investig. 57:301.

OS&HR. June 16, 1977. Washington: Bureau of National
Affairs, Inc.

Plunkett, E. R. 1976. Handbook of Industrial Toxicology.
New York: Chemical Publishing Co., Inc.

Ramirez-R. J.; and Dowell, A. R. 1971. Ann. Inter. Med. 74:569.

Sax, N. I. 1975. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials.
4th ed. New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation.

Scott, E. G.; and Hunt, Jr., W. B. 1973. Chest. 63:701.

Noise
American Medical Association. 1955. J.A.M.A-. 157:1408.

Sataloff, J.; and Michael, P. 1973. Hearing Conservation.
Springfield: Charles C. Thomas.

Robinson, D. W.; and Burns, W. 1970. Hearing and Noise In
Industry. London: Her Majesty's Stationery Office.

Kryter, K. D. 1970. The Effects of Noise on Man. New York:
Academic Press.

American Academy of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology.
1961. Guide for the Evaluation of Hearing Impairment.

Gafafer, W. M. 1966. Occupational Diseases—A Guide to their
Recognition. Washington: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Crystalline Silica

Daum, S. M.; and Stellman, J. M. 1973. Work Is Dangerous to
Your Health. New York: Random House.

198


noisy machine when the worker is located several feet
away may indicate erroneously high exposures.
Obtaining air samples for a solvent at the center of
the room, when the worker must lean into a solvent
tank, would indicate erroneously low exposures.

3. Air sampling method.
The methods mentioned in the illustrative agent section
of this guide are those commonly used or accepted in the
industrial hygiene profession. Other methods may exist
and give satisfactory results. However, expert opinion
should be obtained concerning their validity. All equip-
ment used should be accurately calibrated.

4. Laboratory analysis.
Analysis of air samples is a difficult science and should
be performed by experienced, competent persons.
Laboratories can be accredited by the American Indus-
trial Hygiene Association for these analyses. In any
case, the laboratory’s previous experience with the
specific type of analysis should be ascertained. Certi-
fication of laboratory staff is another indication of
competence.

14


Porasil

Positive Sol 130M
Positive Sol 232
Pregel
Protek-Sorb
Quso G 30
Quso 51

RD8

Santocel CS
Santocel 62
Santoce] Z
Si-O-Lite

Siflox

Silanox
Silanox 101

Tokusil Gu-N
Tokusi] TPLM
U 333
Ultrasil VN 3
Ultrasil VH 3
Ultrasil VN 2
Verticurine
Vitasil 220
Vulcasil S
Wessalon S
White Carbon
Zeofree 80
Zipax

Zorbax SIL

Occupations with Potential Exposures to
Cyrystalline Silica

abrasive blasters
abrasives makers
agriculture

auto garage workers
bisque-kiln workers
brick layers
brickmakers

buffers

buhrstone workers
carborundum makers
casting cleaners, foundry
cement makers
fertilizer makers
fettlers

flint workers

foundry workers
furnace liners

fused quartz workers
glass makers

glaze mixers, pottery
granite cutters
granite workers
grinding wheel makers
grindstone workers
hard rock miners
insecticide makers
insulators

cement mixers

ceramic workers
chemical glass makers
chippers

coal miners

construction workers
cosmetics makers
cutlery makers
diatomaceous earth calciners
electronic equipment makers
enamellers

farming

quartz workers
refractory makers

road constructors

rock crushers

rock cutters

rock drillers

rock grinders

rock screeners

rubber compound mixers
sand cutters

sand pulverizers
sandblasters

sandpaper makers
sandstone grinders
sawyers

158


Mercury smelters

Mercury workers
Metal bronzers
Metal buffers
Metal burners
Metal burnishers
Metal cleaners
Metal cutters
Metal grinders
Metal miners
Metal polishers
Metal refiners
Metallizers

Metal forming
Metal machining
Metal working
Metal polishers
Metal refiners
Metal ozide reducers
Metal refiners
Methanol makers
Millinery workers
Mine workers
Miners

Mirror silverers
Mine-funnel coaters
Mining open pit
Mining underground
Monotypers
Mordanters

Mortar makers
Mortormen

Mono process workers
Musical light makers
Nitrate workers

Nitric acid workers
Nitrite workers
Nitrobenzene makers
Nitrocellulose makers
Nitrocellulose workers
Nitrogen dioxide workers
Nitroglycerine makers

Mercury, sulfur dioxide,
carbon monoxide
Mercury

Antimony

Silica

Lead

Silica

Arsenic, nitrogen dioxide
Lead

Lead

Lead

Lead, silica

Arsenic, lead, sulfur dioxide
Lead

Noise

Noise

Noise

Silica

Arsenic, sulfur dioxide
Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide
Benzene

Nitrogen dioxide, silica
Antimony, arsenic, mercury,
nitrogen dioxide, silica
Benzene, lead

Tol. diisocyanate

Noise

Noise

Antimony

Antimony, arsenic, benzene,
lead

Silica

Silica

Carbon monoxide
Mercury

Nitrogen dioxide

Lead, nitrogen dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Benzene

Arsenic

Benzene

Nitrogen dioxide

Lead

230


Evidence of Exposure

Sampling and Analysis

The NIOSH approved air sampling method uses mechanical
filtration.

The NIOSH approved method for air sample analysis requires
the reweighing of a preweighed filter after collection of the
sample. An additional analysis method is based on beta-
radiation counting of a size selective sample.

The above methods are not intended to be exclusive, but other
methods should be justified.

Allowable Exposure Limits

The standard adopted by the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) provides that no employee in the
textile industry shall be exposed to greater than 200
Micrograms per cubic meter air of lint-free respirable
cotton dust averaged over an eight-hour work shift, unless
these employees are engaged in slashing or weaving, in
which case they shall not be exposed to greater than 750
micrograms per cubic meter air of lint-free respirable
cotton dust averaged over an eight-hour work shift.
In all of the other industries where employees are exposed to
cotton dust, no employee shall be exposed to greater than 500
micrograms per cubic meter air of lint-free respirable cotton
dust averaged over an eight-hour work shift. OSHA has treated.
cotton gins separately and has not imposed a numerical per-
missible exposure limit. OSHA has, however, established re-
quirements for work practices, respirator usage, medical sur-
veillance, and recordkeeping. NOTE: This standard is current-
ly (1978) being litigated in a number of U.S. Courts of Appeal.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of occupational byssinosis due to exposure to
cotton dust is based on the following:
1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to cotton
dust over a period of years,

97


In almost all heart attacks that go to litigation, the problem is
that of causation. To make a determination that an employee
was subjected to a stressor “sufficient to bring about the heart
attack or reaction,” is extremely difficult because of the limita-
tions of medical knowledge as to etiology. Rarely can a
physician state that a heart attack is related to a particular
stress, nor can he point with certainty to the initiating process
of any heart attack. Although the presence of some athero-
sclerosis may be granted, it is not possible to predict when
particular coronary vessels will occlude and precipitate the
myocardial infarction or a fatal arrhythmia.

The physician does have a role in informing the court that the
worker did indeed have a heart attack and in presenting sub-
stantiating data. A final judgment must be rendered in
accordance with the administrative and adjudicatory frame-
work of the state.

Several of the more troublesome areas concerned with deter-
mination of aggravation of preexisting conditions have been
discussed above. Causation and the lack of positive medical
knowledge about causation are the most important deficits in
this determination. That a specific disease state can be caused
or aggravated by more than one stressor is another important
factor in determination, inasmuch as not all stressors can be
identified. The other factors in the determination can be identi-
fied and quantified by experts; for example, factors related to
genetics, physical characteristics, personal habits, work
exposure, work habits, work processes, contaminants, age, and
sex. To assist in arriving at a just decision, it is suggested that
qualified medical and other professional advice should be
obtained during the decision-making process. Consideration
should be given to:

a. Using this guide, and other material, as sources of
information which should be obtained to help support
opinions and decisions; and

b. using the services of an impartial advisory board made
up of occupational medical specialists and other physi-
cians and industrial hygienists. Participants should be
selected by state or local medical societies and profes-
sional organizations.

19


—Insidious onset of malaiae,

—abdominal complaints,

—severe itching (pruritis),

—weakness,

—loss of appetite (anorexia),

—weight loss,

—inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and/or mouth
(stomatitis),

—inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose
(rhinitis),

—inflammation of the kidney (nephritis), and

—decreased pulmonary function.

Tnorganic arsenical compounds are primary cutaneous (skin)
irritants, and signs and symptoms include:

—Redness which may be more intense around hair follicles
and give the skin a mottled appearance,

~brittle nails,

—loss of nails and hair,

—a broad white transverse line (called Mee’s lines) can also
be found in association with polyneuritis,

—pustular, ulcerative, or gangrenous lesions,

—overgrowth of the horny layer of the epidermis (hyper-
keratosis) associated with thick, dry, cracking skin, often
with excessive sweating of the palma and soles of the feet
(hyperhidrosis),

—deposits of black pigments in different body parts (mela-
nosis),

—hyperpigmentation of a “rain-drop” configuration (be-
lieved to be a sign of systemic, not local toxicity), and

—jaundice, which may be secondary to liver involvement.

Signs and symptoms associated with the nervous system are
less common and occur in fewer than 5% of all cases:

—Inflammation of the peripheral nerves (peripheral
neuritis),

—numbness, tingling, “pins and needles”, heightened
sensation,

—symmetrical weakness in feet and legs,

—fasciculation and gross tremors, muscular incoordina-
tion (ataxia), shuffling gait,

—decreased deep tendon reflexes with foot and wrist drop,
and

—mental confusion.

48


Epidemiology

Population studies in the cotton spinning industry have
shown that the occurrence of the symptom of chest tightness on
the first day of the working week (a specific symptom of
byssinosis) depends upon workplace, type of exposure, length
of exposure, and the quality of the raw cotton being processed.
The symptom may be accompanied by detectable loss of venti-
latory capacity and increased breathlessness.

Ina 14-plant study of the records of 6,631 employees, Martinand
Higgins®' reported a significant association between byssino-
sis and bronchitis, and between smoking and byssinosis for
employees in opening, picking, and carding. Three percent (3%)
had subjective symptoms (by history) of byssinosis; 0.8% indi-
cated both symptoms and objective signs by a 10% or greater
drop during the working day of the one-second forced expira-
tory volume (FEV;). Martin and Higgins also reported the
anatomy of the mouth to be an important factor related to pul-
monary function testing. Due to an obstructive phenomenon
unrelated to the lower pulmonary system, ill-fitting or loose
dentures were reported to cause a considerable drop in the
forced expiratory volume in one second at the end of eight hours
of work (FEV.,,).

Shilling et al.5? reported a study of 190 cardroom and blowroom
workers. Thirty-nine percent (39%) of the workers were normal,
35% had Grade I byssinosis, and 25% had Grade II byssinosis.
It was further reported that 45% of the carders and 65% of the
strippers and grinders and blowroom workers had byssinosis.

Shilling®* reported a survey of 28 mills spinning the coarser
grades of raw cotton that demonstrated a “geography” of
disease. The highest prevalence of disease was found in groups
working the nearest to carding engines. This finding could not
be explained by age differences or in years of exposure to dust.

Zuskin et al.®‘ reported a study of 120 men and 38 women work-
ers in two air-conditioned cotton mills. The average length of
employment in these mills was 16 years, and the average age
was 43. The following table from the report summarizes chronic
respiratory symptoms and illnesses:

93


Shoe stainers

Shot makers

Shingle makers

Ship burners

Ship welders

Ship builders

Ship demolition workers

Shipbuilding

Shoe stainers

Sign painters

Silica brick workers

Silicon alloy makers

Silk weighters

Silo fillers

Silver extractors

Silver polishers

Silver refiners

Slashing operators,
cotton mill

Slate workers

Slushers, porcelain
enameling

Smelters

Soap makers

Soda makers

Sodium silicate workers

Sodium sulfite makers

Soil sterilizer makers

Solder makers

Solderers

Solvent makers
Solder makers
Spacecraft workers
Spindle pickers cotton
Spinners, cotton mill
Spooling operators,
cotton mill
Spinners (asbestos)
Stain makers
Stainers
Steel engravers
Stereotypers
Stibnite miners
Stone bedrubbers

Benzene, lead
Lead

Asbestos

Tol. diisocyanate
Tol. diisocyanate
Asbestos
Asbestos

Noise

Lead

Lead, mercury
Silica

Silica

Lead

Nitrogen dioxide
Mercury

Silica

Arsenic

Cotton dust

Silica

Lead

Silica, lead, antimony, arsenic

Benzene

Arsenic

Silica

Sulfur dioxide

Arsenic

Antimony, lead

Antimony, arsenic, lead,
carbon monoxide

Benzene

Antimony, lead

Silica

Cotton dust

Cotton dust

Cotton dust

Asbestos
Benzene
Benzene

Lead
Antimony, lead
Antimony
Silica

236


Chemical Name

Common Names

antimony sodium
thioglycollate

antimony sulfate

antimony tetroxide

antimony tribromide

antimony trichloride

antimony trichloride
solution

antimony trifluoride

antimony triiodide

antimony trioxide

antimony triselenide
antimony tritelluride

antimony trisulfide

antimony sodium thioacetate,
mercaptoacetic acid antimony
derivative sodium salt

antimony salt of sulfuric acid,
antimonous sulfate, antimony
trisulfate

antimony oxide

antimonous bromide, antimony
bromide

antimonous chloride, antimony
chloride, butter of antimony,
caustic antimony, mineral butter

antimony chloride solution,
liquid butter of antimony

antimonous fluoride, antimony
fluoride

antimonous iodide, antimony
iodide

antimony oxide, antimony
white, antimony bloom,
diantimony trioxide, Exitelite,
flowers of antimony,
Senarmontite, sulfuret of
antimony, black antimony,
Valentinite Weisspiess-glanz

antimony telluride

antimony glance, antimony
orange, antimony sulfide,
antimonous sulfide, antimonite,
crimson antimony, gray
antimony, needle antimony,
stibnite

31


___250*_____ million particles per cubic foot
% SiO. +5

© quartz (respirable mass fraction)
(gravimetric analysis)

___10** ss milligrams per cubic meter
% SiO, + 2

© quartz (total dust)
(gravimetric analysis)

300 milligrams per cubic meter
% SiO; + 2

© cristobalite
1/2 the value calculated from the mass or count formula
for quartz

© tridymite
1/2 the value calculated from the mass or count formula
for quartz

*The percent of crystalline silica in the formula is the amount
determined from airborne samples except in those instances
in which other methods have been shown to be applicable.

**Both concentration and percent quartz for the application of

this limit are to be determined from the fraction passing a
size selector with the following characteristics.

AERODYNAMIC DIAMETER

(um) (unit density sphere) Percent Passing Selector
"2.0 90
2.5 75
3.5 50
5.0 25
10.0 0

(NOTE: NIOSH has recommended a reduction in the standard
to 50 micrograms per cubic meter as respirable free silica based
on an 8-hour time-weighted average exposure.)

166


RELATIONSHIP OF MERCURY EXPOSURE TO
MERCURY LEVELS IN URINE, UNCORRECTED FOR
SPECIFIC GRAVITY*

TWATM Exposure Percentage of Group
Level Groups Number within Urine Level Range
(milligrams per of (milligram pe: )

cuble meter) Workers © <0.01 01-10 -11-.30 .31-60 61-10 >1.00

Controls 0.00 142 35.2 627 21 00 00 0.0
<0.01 29 69 862 69 00 00 00
0.01-0.05 188 69 660 245 27 00 00
0.06-0.10 91 0.0 626 308 66 00 00
0.11-0.14 60 3.3 18.3 31.7 16.7 23.3 6.7
0.24-0.27 27 0.0 143 296 445 74 37

(Smith et al., 1970, and NIOSH, 1973)

*Expressed as percentage of each exposure level group within
designated ranges of urine mercury levels

**Time-weighted averages

The following sections in quotes are from the National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health:72

In a study of the records of 1,173 hatters, Baldi et al.”5 reported
“300 cases of mercury poisoning resulting from exposure to
concentrations ranging from 0.5 to greater than 2.0 milligrams
of mercury per cubic meter. One hundred of these cases resulted
in permanent disability. Although some cases were reported at
exposure levels below 0.5 milligram of mercury per cubic meter,
there were no cases reported for workers exposed to lesa
than 0.1 milligram of mercury per cubic meter.”

131



CHAPTER V — AGGRAVATION
OF PREEXISTING CONDITIONS

With regard to occupational disease, there is no generally
accepted medical definition of aggravation. In the current
system of workers’ compensation, aggravation of a preexisting
disease or physical impairment may be defined as any occupa-
tional occurrence, act, or exposure that will make worse,
intensify, or increase the severity of any physical or mental
problem known to exist before the occupational exposure, An
example of aggravation would be the effects on an employee
with known allergies exposed to allergens in the workplace re-
sulting in frequent asthmatic attacks. In another example, a
recovered alcoholic with mild liver damage is exposed to
carbon tetrachloride at work, resulting in greater liver damage.
This definition implies that if there is any occupational contri-
bution to an existing disease, the disease can become
compensable. However, this guide is concerned solely with the
causation of disease and whether or not the causes are occu-
pational.

The existence of a condition before exposure does not neces-
sarily mean before employment. Many companies change
processes and products from time to time. When such changes
occur during an employee’s period of employment, there may
be an aggravation of a condition that was not adversely
affected by prior work in the same job or plant.

Any stress may be an aggravating factor and has been so con-
sidered by the courts for such jobs as firefighting and police
work.

Since most states hold that the employer accepts the worker

“as is,” such factors as age, sex, heredity, and obesity can be
logically excluded from the list of causative factors. This leaves

15


Lung Function Tests

Reduced lung capacities and other lung changes do not differ
from those resulting from other forms of lung fibrosis, both
occupational and nonoccupational. Therefore, the results of
lung function tests alone or chest X-ray findings alone do not
lead to diagnosis of asbestosis. Asbestos bodies in lymph nodes
indicate exposure, but not necessarily asbestosis.

—Asbestosis causes a reduction in the vital capacity (VC)
of the lungs and a reduction in total lung capacity (TLC).
These capacities are further reduced as the disease
progresses.

—The residual volume (RV) of the lungs will be normal or
slightly increased.

—The lungs’ diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (D.)
will be reduced.

Other lung function test results which are found in asbestosis
include:
—Increased minute ventilation (amount of air breathed in
one minute),
—reduced oxygenation of the arterial blood (arterial
hypoxemia),
—increased static transpulmonary pressures, and
—decreased lung compliance.

An exercise test will result in an increased amount of air
required during physical effort and decreased oxygen in the
blood, leading to cyanosis.

Sputum Examination

Asbestos fibers or bodies may be found in the sputum. These
indicate asbestos exposure, but not necessarily asbestosis.
Where cancer cells are present in the sputum, and chest X-ray
findings are normal; bronchoscopy may be necessary to
confirm and locate the lung tumor.

Skin Tests

The following tests should be performed by the physician to
exclude possible infectious diseases:

1. PPD (tuberculin test) 3. histoplasmin
2. blastomycin 4. coccidioidin

59


16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

During the past 3 years have you had
any chest illness which has kept you
off work or from your usual activities
for as much as a week? —

Did you bring up more phlegm than
usual in any of these illnesses? __

Have you had more than one illness
with phlegm like this in the last 3
years? —

HAVE YOU EVER HAD:
(Give relevant details after each
positive answer.)

An injury or operation affecting your —_
chest?

Heart trouble?

Bronchitis?

Pneumonia?

Pleurisy?

Pulmonary Tuberculosis? —___ ____

Bronchial Asthma? —

Eczema?

Dermatitis?

Pneumoconiosis?

215


Epidemiology

Scientific literature has well documented the fact that
chronic exposure to mercury can result in complex alterations
to a worker's physiological state. The primary effects are on the
central nervous system. These effects manifest themselves in
varied signs and symptoms, as well as altering the worker's
performance capabilities.

In the studies that follow, oropharyngeal changes, other than
those of the teeth and gums, showed some dose-response
relation; abnormalities of the teeth and gums were shown not to
be dose-related however.

In an 18-month study of 142 workers from 4 plant groups (3
plants were engaged in chlor-alkali manufacturing, and 1 plant
manufactured magnetic materials), Miller et al.®® reported
changes in neuromuscular indices of tremor and electromy-
ography (EMG) in a significant number of workers when blood
concentrations of mercury exceeded approximately 0.1
milligram of mercury per liter. The duration of chronic
exposure to metallic mercury vapor ranged from 6 months to 20
years with a mean of approximately 9 years.

Shandar and Simson® reported a study of 334 workers in a
variety of occupations or industries with mercury in air levels
Tanging from approximately 0 to 2.0 milligrams per cubic meter
and exposure periods ranging from 1 month to 38 years.
Symptoms including bleeding gums, tremor, metallic taste,
and insomnia were associated with urine mercury values
greater than 0.3 milligram of mercury per liter. Symptoms
including headache, nervousness, tiredness, and abdominal
upset were associated with a urine mercury content of 0.1 to 0.3
milligram per liter.

Rentos and Seligman” reported a study of 9 mercury mine and
mill locations. Average work area air concentrations between
0.08 and 0.73 milligrams of mercury per cubic meter were
associated with clinical evidence of mercury poisoning foundin
18 out of 83 workers examined. Symptoms included loss of
teeth, sore gums, loose teeth, salivation, headaches, person-
ality changes, and tremor. Workers exposed to average air
concentrations less than 0.03 milligram of mercury per cubic
meter displayed no symptoms.

128


Nonburners included laborers and supervisory personnel who
had been on the job for 4 to 10 months and offered no
complaints. Burners with as little as 1 month on the job before
symptoms and other signs of increased body burden of lead
appeared reported experiencing nausea, abdominal discom-
fort, mood change and irritability, sleeplessness, fatigue,
headache, and numbness and tingling of the extremities. Four
of the burners had no complaints. Workers having abnor-
malities in 2 of 3 variables (blood lead, F.E.P., or M.N.C.V.) and
complaining of some symptoms were considered to have intox-
ication and were referred for chelation therapy.

(Blood lead levels greater than 60 micrograms of lead per 100
grams whole blood are indicative of unacceptable lead absorp-
tion; urine lead levels of 0.20 milligram lead per liter of urine or
greater are indicative of unacceptable lead absorption.®)

Elkins®! assembled data available on lead in air and lead in
urine and reported that a urinary lead level of 0.2 milligrams
lead per liter of urine would correspond to an air concentration
of 0.2 milligrams lead per cubic meter of air.

The data in the table on the next page relating average and median
blood lead content with exposure and duration of employment
have been adapted from Dreesen et al.*2, the Committee on
Biological Effects of Atmospheric Pollutants,“! and the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health®.

Tola and Nordman“ reported a study of 335 men representing
the general population and 2,209 men occupationally exposed
to lead. No association between blood lead concentrations and
smoking was demonstrated in the men from the general
population. A dose-response relationship was found between
the amount of smoking and the blood lead concentrations of
workers occupationally exposed to lead with smokers having
statistically significant higher blood lead levels than
nonsmokers.

Sakurai et al.*5 reported a study of 218 male workers in a rubber
hose and automobile tire factory who had an overall mean
duration of occupational lead exposure of 5.0 years (the range
was 6 months to 21 years). Lead exposure had been so low that
in the past the plant physician had diagnosed no cases of
clinical lead poisoning; average 8-hour lead in air concen-

112


Trauma: An injury or a wound.

Tumor: A swelling or enlargement, may also refer to a spon-
taneous growth of new tissue.

Ulcerative: Causing ulcers.

Urinary: Pertaining to urine, its production, function, or
excretion.

Urobilinogen: A colorless derivative of bilirubin from which it
is formed by the action of intestinal bacteria.

Urticaria: A vascular skin reaction characterized by the
eruption of pale evanescent wheals which are associated
with severe itching.

Vascular: Blood vessels.

VC: Vital capacity; a test of lung function.

Ventricular Arrhythmias: A rhythmic disturbance arising in
the ventricles or the lower chambers of the heart that pump
blood into the arteries leading to the lungs and body.

Vertigo: Dizziness.

Viscera: Internal organs enclosed within a cavity such as the
abdominal or thoracic cavities.


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Consolidation: The act of becoming solid. Used in connection
with the solidification of the lungs due to engorgement of the
lung tissues, as occurs in acute pneumonia.

Comtaminant: A material that is foreign to the normal
medium.

Coproporphyrin: A potphyrin present in urine and feces.

Cor Pulmonale: Hypertrophy (enlargement) and failure of the
right ventricle resulting from disorders of the lungs,
pulmonary vessels, or chest wall which involve an increase
in pulmonary arterial Pressure.

Cornea: The transparent part of the eye.

CPS: Cycles per second (Hertz); a measurement of frequency
of sound or any other cyclic phenomenon.

Crackles: A crackling sound heard in the lung during certain
diseases.

Creatinine: 1-Methylglycocyamidine, the end product of
creatine metabolism, a normal alkaline constituent of urine
and blood.

Cutaneous: Pertaining to, or affecting the skin.

Cyanosis: Slightly bluish, greyish, slatelike, or dark purple
discoloration of the skin due to the presence of abnormal
amounts of reduced hemoglobin in the blood.

Cytology: Pertaining to the formation, structure, and function
of cells.

Cytoscopy: Microscopic examination of cells for purpose of
diagnosis.

dB(A): Sound level in decibels read on the A-scale of a sound
level meter.

Dicibel (dB): A unit used to measure sound intensity.

Dermatitis: Inflammation of the skin from any cause.

246


Decision-Making

In order for the compensation system to treat both injury and
disease in a uniform manner, disease must be related to the
workplace as effectively as injury. For the decision-maker,
however, establishing the causality of a disease is often a diffi-
cult task, especially when it becomes necessary to decide if an
employee's disease resulted from, or was aggravated by,
employment-related factors.

In contrast to a traumatic injury, which is readily apparent to
the affected employee and to those around him, a cause-effect
relationship between disease and an agent or conditions in the
workplace may not be clear. Occupational disease may be slow
to develop. Symptoms of disease may be confused with changes
that are due to the aging process, or with the effects of smoking
or alcohol abuse. Additionally, information on past work expo-
sures is often unavailable, inadequate, or incomplete. Not all
individuals react in the same way to similar exposures to
disease-producing agents. Off-the-job exposures may contri-
bute or be a primary cause of illnesses and accidents. These are
but some of the factors which must be considered in the
decision-making process.

The decision of the person responsible for determining the
work-relatedness of a disease must be based on an evaluation of
the available information. When appropriate evidence is
presented in a logical and orderly sequence, when major issues
are identified, and the basis for any presumption is defined,
then the decision-making process is facilitated and anequitable
decision is likely to result.

The following text outlines and describes a method for the
collection, presentation, and evaluation of medical, occupa-
tional, and other evidence of occupational disease; presents
selected information on fourteen disease-producing agents to
illustrate the methodology; and discusses some problem areas
associated with decision-making.


When the disease is classed as Grade II, continued exposure to
cotton dust can induce episodes of bronchitis and/or asthma.

In Grade III, chronic lung disease can be accompanied by the
following symptoms:
—Chronic bronchitis and progression to emphysema and
—cough with mucopurulent (consisting of mucus and pus)
sputum.

The chest X-ray may be normal in Grade III.

Though byssinosis was originally thought to be related to
bronchial asthma, there are several important differences
between them. The onset of the symptoms of byssinosis occur
gradually, while asthma develops soon after exposure to an
antigen.

Other conditions which may result from cotton dust exposure
are as follows: “Weaver’s cough,” “mill fever,” “mattress
maker’s fever,” “stripper’s asthma,” “grinder’s asthma,” and
“cotton card room asthma.”

Other acute illnesses resulting in fatigue, loss of appetite
(anorexia), headache, nausea, and vomiting, have occurred
from the use of low grade or stained cotton. The aerobacter
cloacae bacteria may be a cause.

Laboratory and Clinical Evaluations

Pulmonary function tests are not conclusive but are
generally necessary in making a correct diagnosis:

—A significant decline in one second forced expiratory
volume (FEV) from the morning of the first day of the
working week to the afternoon of the same day. The
decrement is greater on the first day of the working
week than later in the week.

—decreased forced vital capacity (FVC). This measure-
ment is less sensitive than FEV, and more dependent
upon subject cooperation.

NOTE: The findings of these tests (i.e., FEV, and FVC) havea
greater validity when performed together rather than separate-
ly. However, these values are usually obtained from the same
test record.



Epidemiology

A great variety of signs and symptoms associated with
industrial exposure to antimony has been detailed in the
scientific literature. Epidemiologic studies have demon-
strated the relationship between antimony and myocardial
changes, transient pneumonia, chronic dermatitis, irritation of
the mucous membrane, and irritation of the digestive tract
among workers in trades and occupations such as mining
antimony-containing ores, flameproofing, abrasives, and the
printing industry. The data demonstrate that worker exposure
is dependent on the specific antimony compound present in the
work environment. This should be considered when reviewing
the following information:

Brieger et al.' reported a 2-year study of 125 workers in an
abrasives industry (using antimony trisulfide) who had been
exposed to air concentrations of antimony ranging from 0.58
to 5.5 milligrams per cubic meter, with most values over 3.0
milligrams per cubic meter. During the study, 6 workers died
suddenly in addition to 2 other workers who died of chronic
heart disease. Four of the deceased were under 45 years of age.
Since no autopsies were performed, the cause of death was not
determined definitely but in all but 1 case heart disease was
suspected. Fourteen had a blood pressure of over 150/90 mm of
mercury, and 24 of under 110/70 mm of mercury. Thirty-seven
out of 75 showed changes in the electrocardiogram, mostly of
the T-waves; 7 out of 111 had ulcers. Irritation of the skin,
mucous membranes, or respiratory tract was not found. Urine
samples contained 0.8 to 9.6 milligrams of antimony per liter
of urine. (Elkins suggested that 1 milligram of antimony per
liter of urine is a safe level.) When the use of antimony trisulfide
was discontinued, no further deaths from heart disease or
abnormal increase of cardiovascular disorders occurred.
Electrocardiographic changes were reported to persist in 12 of
56 workers who were re-examined. When unattended, evidence
showed that injury to the heart may remain undetected during
the long latency periods.

Cooper et al.? reported a study of 28 workers who had been
engaged in processing antimony from a crude ore for 1 to 15
years. Workers were exposed to dusts of antimony trioxide and
antimony ore; antimony concentrations in air ranged from
0.081 to 138 milligrams per cubic meter with the heaviest
concentration being in bagging operations. Of the workers

36


Potteries, foundries, stone cutting and finishing, tile and clay
producing, and glass manufacturing.

Both acute and chronic silicosis have a definite tendency to
progress whether or not the worker remains exposed to duat.
Tuberculosis is a common complication of silicosis. Silicosis is
also associated with pulmonary hypertension and cor
pulmonale (hypertrophy or failure of the right ventricle).

Lung function tests and chest X-rays classed according to the
ILO U/C system (international classification of radiographs of
the pneumoconioses) are useful in diagnosing and following
the progression of silicosis.

Exposure to crystalline silica can result in the occupational
dermatosis, silica granuloma (a granular tumor or growth
usually of lymphoid and epitheloid cells).

The common names of some minerals that contain varying
amounts of crystalline silica follow:

Common Names

agate jasper
amethyst muscovite
beach sand pegmatite
chalcedony quartz
chert quartzite
chrysoprase rock crystal
citrine quartz rose quartz
cristobalite sand
diatomaceous earth sandstone
feldspar sardonyx
flint silica flour
free silica silican hydride
ganister tridymite
granite tripoli
gritstone

The following is a list of trade names of products that either
consist of or contain silica:

156


mercury antimony sulfide

mercury nitride

The following is a listing of occupations with potential ex-

posure to mercury:

Occupations with Potential Exposure to Mercury

amalgam makers
bactericide makers
barometer makers
battery makers, mercury
boiler makers

bronzers

calibration instrument makers
cap loaders, percussion
carbon brush makers
caustic soda makers
ceramic workers
chlorine makers
cinnabar ore processors
commercial artists
dental amalgam makers
dentists

direct current meter workers
disinfectant makers
disinfectors

drug makers

dye makers

electric apparatus makers
electroplaters
embalmers. ©

explosive makers
pharmaceutical workers
photoengravers
photographers

pressure gage makers
Tefiners, mercury

seed handlers

sign painters

silver extractors

switch makers, mercury

farmers

feltmakers

fingerprint detectors
fireworks makers
fungicide makers

fur preservers

fur processors

gold extractors

hatters

histology technicians

ink makers

secticide makers
'vestment casting workers
jewelers

laboratory workers, blood
laboratory workers, chemical
lamp makers, fluorescent
lamp makers, mercury arc
manometer makers
mercury workers

miners, mercury

neon light makers

paint makers

paper makers

percussion cap makers
pesticide workers

tanners

taxidermists

textile printers
thermometer makers
vacuum pump makers
vapor tube makers

vinyl] chloride makers
wood preservative workers

123


2. chest tightness and dyspnea which appear on the first
workday following absences from exposure to cotton
dust, and

3. a reduction of ventilatory capacity following return to
work on the first workday and during the workday as
demonstrated by lung function test.

NOTE: Although most persons with Grade I, IT, or III byssino-
sis have a moderate to marked decrease in FEV, absence of
this decrement does not rule out the diagnosis of byssinosis in
persons with symptoms.

Chronic bronchitis may or may not be associated with byssi-
nosis. The person with chronic bronchitis will usually exper-
ience chest tightness when exposed to any dusty atmosphere,
whereas the early byssinotic is affected only by cotton dust
and is worse on returning to work on the first working day or
after several days absence.

Older females without byssinosis employed in mills for many
years while rearing families and performing usual household
duties will show a significant drop in the difference in before
and after-shift (FEV;) tests. It has been concluded that physi-
cal work causes extreme fatigue in these women, and already
lowered pulmonary function should be interpreted as muscular
fatigue rather than a significant increase in bronchial resist-
ance (Martin and Higgins, 1976).

98


Allowable Exposure Limits

The Federal standard for antimony and its compounds is 0.5
milligram per cubic meter of air based on an 8-hour time-
weighted average exposure. Occupational exposure to anti-
mony in amounts greater than this is evidence of a possible
causal relationship between disease and occupation.

Conclusion

Diagnostic criteria for occupational antimony poisoning are
based on the following:
1. Confirmed history of occupational exposure to
antimony or one of its compounds,
2. clinica] findings compatible with antimony poisoning,
3. urine antimony levels in excess of 1.0 milligram per liter,
and
4. blood antimony levels in excess of 2.0 milligrams per 100
grams,

39