Occupational dermatoses in composite production.
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.
Isaksson
M
M
Department of Occupational and Environmental Dermatology, Malmö University Hospital, Sweden.
Zimerson
E
E
Bruze
M
M
D000328:Adult; D009783:Dermatitis, Occupational / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005557:Formaldehyde / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010636:Phenols / Q000009:adverse effects; D012116:Resins, Plant / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012117:Resins, Synthetic / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013548:Sweden / Q000453:epidemiology; D014227:Triazines / Q000009:adverse effects
D010636:Phenols; D012116:Resins, Plant; D012117:Resins, Synthetic; D014227:Triazines; D005557:Formaldehyde; C011907:melamine