Occupational exposure to formaldehyde in a medical center autopsy service
The formaldehyde exposures occurring in the autopsy service of a medical complex were evaluated as part of a study to detect genetically harmful effects of chemical exposures. Determination of time-weighted average (TWA) exposures and characterization of the patterns of exposure experienced by individuals with different work responsibilities in this occupational setting were sought. Both general area and breathing zone samples were evaluated. Estimated weekly time-weighted average exposures for pathologists, residents and technicians were determined to be between 0.61 and 1.32 parts per million with little difference between work roles. While the averages were similar, the patterns of exposure of technicians and physicians were different. Technicians were exposed to a baseline level of formaldehyde for a prolonged period of time. In contrast, physicians were exposed for shorter times but experienced higher levels during specific tasks, particularly tissue-sectioning and examination. Evaluations of work procedures and environmental conditions in autopsy services are recommended to reduce personnel exposure to formaldehyde vapor.
- Research Organization:
- Office of Environmental Health and Safety, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
- OSTI ID:
- 5526947
- Journal Information:
- JOM, J. Occup. Med.; (United States), Vol. 25:7
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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FORMALDEHYDE
GENETIC EFFECTS
HEALTH HAZARDS
HOSPITALS
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
MEDICAL PERSONNEL
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
AUTOPSY
AIR POLLUTION
ALDEHYDES
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
BUILDINGS
DIAGNOSTIC TECHNIQUES
HAZARDS
MEDICAL CENTERS
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
PERSONNEL
POLLUTION
SAFETY
560306* - Chemicals Metabolism & Toxicology- Man- (-1987)