Health effects of occupational pentachlorophenol exposure in timber sawmill employees: a preliminary study.
OBJECTIVE
To study the health effects of pentachlorophenol (PCP) exposure in the timber sawmill industry.


METHODS
A questionnaire-based, non-random survey was undertaken amongst a group of current and ex-workers who had identified their health concerns as being related to PCP exposure.


RESULTS
Low, medium and high exposure groups were identified. A significant dose-response was found between past exposure to Pentachlorophenol and reported symptoms of fever/sweating (47% in the high exposure group), weight loss (33% in the high exposure group), persisting fatigue (74% in the high exposure group), nausea (40% in the medium and high exposure groups) and responses to a screening test for neuropsychological dysfunction (Questionnaire 16) (81% in the high exposure group). No associations were observed with other chronic diseases, apart from emphysema and chronic bronchitis.


CONCLUSIONS
This study is based on a self selected sample of PCP-exposed workers whose precise exposure levels are unclear. Thus the findings presented should be regarded as preliminary. Nevertheless, they support clinical experiences and point to the need for further investigation.
Walls
C B
CB
Manukau Branch, Occupational Safety & Health Service, Department of Labour, Wellington.
Glass
W I
WI
Pearce
N E
NE
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006540:Herbicides / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011939:Mental Recall; D008875:Middle Aged; D009520:New Zealand / Q000453:epidemiology; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D010416:Pentachlorophenol / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014934:Wood
D006540:Herbicides; D010416:Pentachlorophenol