Exposure risk assessment in an aluminium salvage plant.
BACKGROUND
A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate possible nervous or respiratory system effects from occupational aluminium exposure.


METHODS
Exposed workers in Al salvage plant were compared with controls. The investigation involved a standardized occupational and medical history and assessments of Al levels in ambiance, serum, and urine. This was combined with an evaluation of respiratory complaints, lung, and cognitive functions.


RESULTS
Thirty workers exposed to Al were matched to 60 individuals without exposure to Al. Significantly higher internal doses of Al in urine were found in exposed workers (11.59 microg/L), when compared with the controls (4.37 microg/L). Few high Al atmospheric levels were obtained (0.12-10.86 mg/m3). No significant differences concerning respiratory or neurological symptoms prevalence between the two groups were reported.


CONCLUSIONS
Chronic exposure to Al dust, at the levels documented in this study over the German limit values, does not induce measurable cognitive decline.
Deschamps
Frederic J
FJ
Department of Occupational Health, Medicine Faculty, Reims Cedex, France. fdeschamps@chu-reims.fr
Lesage
Francois Xavier
FX
Chobriat
Jeremy
J
Py
Nadine
N
Novella
Jean Luc
JL
D000328:Adult; D000535:Aluminum / Q000097:blood* / Q000652:urine*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005602:France; D006801:Humans; D007221:Industry; D008297:Male; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D018570:Risk Assessment
D000535:Aluminum