ISSN:
1432-1246
Keywords:
Hexachlorocyclohexane
;
Occupational exposure
;
Biological monitoring
;
Serum residues
;
β-HCH
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Summary The accumulation of hexachlorocyclohexane, one of the most commonly used chlorinated insecticides, was studied in a high-risk group of people who are exposed during its manufacturing process. The serum HCH concentration was estimated by quantitating its α, β, γ and δ-isomers with the help of GLC analysis. Exposed workers involved in maintenance work were found to have 3 times higher HCH residues than the controls, while in the plant operators and supervisors the levels were 5 times higher. The most severely exposed were the handlers who are in direct contact with the insecticide. The level of serum HCH residues in them was found to be about 12 times higher than those in the controls. The percentage composition of the insecticide, with respect to the different isomers, varied up to 20% for the γ-isomer, up to 30% for α-isomer and had between 60%–100% of the β-isomer in the samples. The serum levels of the insecticides were clearly related to the workers' job-related close contact, intensity, frequency, and the duration of their exposure. The total of HCH residues in the sera studied were in the range of 0.143–1.152 ppm. The importance of these findings and the relevant protective measures are discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00406186
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