Carcinogenic substances in the workplace

Opening flaps and valves and connecting hoses is the most dangerous step in loading and decanting operations as hazardous carcinogenic substances can be released.

When workers need to check device displays in hazardous areas, they may be exposed to toxic or carcinogenic substances above the occupational exposure limits.

Sudden increases of carcinogenic toxic gases in confined spaces can put workers at risk.

Unintentional leakage of carcinogens is never excluded in storage rooms.

Working with hazardous carcinogenic substance in research labs can lead to short-term excess exposure.

1,3-Butadiene is a colourless gas with a mild aromatic or gasoline-like odour. In the chemicals industry, 1,3-butadiene is primarily used to manufacture mineral oil products, synthetic rubber and other rubber goods. As it is heavier than air, 1,3-butadiene accumulates at floor level. If inhaled in large doses it has a narcotic effect. Explosive compounds form in the presence of air.

Acrylonitrile is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It is utilized in the manufacturing of dissolver, emulsifier and adhesive, but it is mainly used in the production of plastics. Acrylonitrile is a carcinogenic substance with acutely toxic effects since it can form deadly cyanide. In contact with substances like bromine, chlorine or strong bases, there is also risk of explosion.

Benzene is a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. When exposed to air it quickly evaporates. The chemical and pharmaceutical industries use it primarily as solvent and as a starting material or intermediate in the production of plastics, lubricants, rubbers, drugs and others. Benzene is a natural component of crude oil and gasoline. Benzene is a hazardous carcinogen that is subject to very strict workplace thresholds.

Epichlorohydrin is a clear colorless liquid with an irritating, chloroform-like odor. It is used to manufacture epoxy resins, elastomers, and synthetic glycerin. It is also used in the manufacture of other chemicals, insecticides, coatings, adhesives, and as a solvent in the rubber industry. Epichlorohydrin is a flammable liquid that is highly volatile. When heated above its flash point, its vapors may cause explosive reactions when combined with air.

Ethylene oxide is a gaseous, colourless substance that smells like ether at toxic levels. It is used in the manufacture of antifreeze, textiles, solvents, adhesives and pharmaceuticals. A primary use of ethylene oxide is as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of ethylene glycol. More than 40,000 workers in the European Union have potentially been exposed to ethylene oxide. Ethylene oxide is extremely flammable, chemically unstable and may react explosively in the presence of an ignition source, even without oxygen.

Formaldehyde is gaseous, colourless and has a pungent odour. It is often found in water-based solutions. Formaldehyde is used in the manufacture of a wide variety of products like chemicals, glues, fibreboard adhesives and sealants, coating products, polymers and laboratory chemicals. Formaldehyde is toxic in contact with skin and can cause severe skin burns and eye damage. It is toxic if inhaled, may cause cancer and is suspected of causing genetic defects.

Mercury, also known as quicksilver, is a silver shining, odourless liquid. It is a naturally occurring element, found in water, air, and soil. Mercury is contained in many products such as batteries, thermometers, electric switches, dental amalgam, pharmaceuticals and lamps. The WHO considers mercury as one of the top ten chemicals or groups of chemicals of major public health concern. Due to its toxicity, mercury must be handled with extreme care at the workplace.

Vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) is a gaseous, colourless substance with a sweetish odour. It is mainly produced to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products like pipes, wires, and packaging materials. Vinyl chloride (VC) does not occur naturally and must be industrially manufactured for its commercial uses. VCM is an extremely flammable gas, that forms explosive mixtures with air. It is heavier than air and chemically unstable at increased temperatures. Exposure to vinyl chloride poses the risk of acute or chronic health hazards.