Evaluation of Occupational Combined Exposure to Organic Solvents and Noise in Printing Industry

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Department of Occupational Health and Air pollution (Division of Occupational Hygiene and Air Pollution), High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt

Abstract

Background: In working environments where organic solvents such as toluene, Benzyene, xylene, styrene, and trichloroethylene are used, noise is also common. Thus, ototoxicity of an organic solvent has a probable interaction with noise under such environments. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the occupational combined exposure to organic solvents and noise exposures in printing industry. Methods: Several departments were selected as raw material storage, white process, color process, ultraviolet process, and design area as an exposure area. Administrative area was selected as a control. Assessment of occupational exposure to these pollutants was carried out using calibrated instruments. Results: Significant increase in the level of xylene, benzene, VOC’S, and noise during working hours in comparison a control area. However, the only insignificant differences in the level of toluene exposure during work time in comparison with work area and control office. Conclusion and Recommendations: The present study concluded that exposed to organic solvents as: xylene, benzene, toluene, VOC’S, and noise exposure in the printing processing industry can result in measurable health risks to the workers. These findings should be used as a preventive measures for noise and organic solvents exposures control in the workplace environment.

Keywords

Journal of High Institute of Public Health
Volume 39, Issue 1
January 2009
Pages 71-79

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