Vinyl chlorides have been identified as causative agents in cancer of the liver. Mutagens are substances which are capable of altering the body's genetic material i.e. the genes and chromosomes of the cells. Ethylono-oxide, a noncarcinogen, has been found to have mutagenic properties. Phthalate-esters are suspected as being tetrogens and are frequently used as plasticisors in coating formulations. Substances used in the formulations of coatings, which can be inhaled, are primarily the vapors of volatile liquids and solids.
Toxic vapors can be irritants, asphyxiants, anaesthetics and systemic poisons.
Volatile irritants are capable of preferentially effecting specific areas of the respiratory system, such as the respiratory tract, the lung tissue of the terminal air passages and air sacs. Paints frequently contain skin-degrading solvents, as well as a variety of pigments and miscellaneous additives, many of which can be physiologically active chemicals. Skin complaints brought on by contact with paint range from mild skin irritation to extreme forms of dermatitus, which is a prescribed industrial disease. Abraded skin, cuts and lesions naturally facilitate the absorption, but to varying degrees intact skin also has the capacity to allow the passage of toxic substances. Propane sulfone, widely used as a paint vehicle, has been identified as being a powerful carcinogen and can cause cancer on skin contact.