Occupational dermatoses in composite production.

Abstract

In a plant that produces fiber-resin composite by impregnation of cellulose fibers with phenol-formaldehyde and melamine-formaldehyde resins, a new technique was introduced that resulted in problems in the handling of uncured products. Many workers suffered dermatitis on areas of exposed skin. A primary investigation found that some workers had an occupationally related skin disease with contact allergy to work materials. We undertook a survey of occupational dermatoses, based on a questionnaire, clinical examination, and patch test with a standard series and a series of products and chemicals representing the work environment. Eighty-eight workers participated in the clinical investigation. In six workers, contact allergy to phenol-formaldehyde resin was seen, and in five workers, contact allergy to melamine-formaldehyde resin was noted. Two workers were allergic to both resins. Occupational dermatitis was diagnosed in nine of 88 (10.2%) workers. In this article, we discuss possible preventive measures for avoiding occupational dermatitis.

• Authors: M Isaksson, E Zimerson, M Bruze
• Journal: Journal of occupational and environmental medicine (J Occup Environ Med) Vol. 41 Issue 4 Pg. 261-6 (Apr 1999) ISSN: 1076-2752 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10224591 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Phenols
• Resins, Plant
• Resins, Synthetic
• Triazines
• Formaldehyde
• melamine

Topics

• Adult
• Dermatitis, Occupational (epidemiology, etiology)
• Female
• Formaldehyde (adverse effects)
• Humans
• Male
• Phenols (adverse effects)
• Resins, Plant (adverse effects)
• Resins, Synthetic (adverse effects)
• Sweden (epidemiology)
• Triazines (adverse effects)