United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Emergency and
Remedial Response
Washington) DC 20460
OSWER 9203.1-17A
EPA 54O-R98-OOS
PB98-963217
October 1999
Superfund
v/EPA
Comimon Contaminants
Found at Superfund Sites
i
• Acetone • 1,2-Dichloroethane • Cyanide • ODD •
Naphthalene • Tetrachloroethylene • Boron • Cad-
mium • 1,1-Dichloroethene - Mercury • Aldrin/Dieldrin «
i
DDE • Pentachlorophenol • Beryllium • 2-Hexanone
• Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB£) • Lead - Creosols •
1,1,2-Trichloroethylene • Benzene • Chromium • Thorium
• Thallium • Phenol • Toluene * Arsenic • Barium •
2-Butanone • Carbon Tetrachloride • Fluorides
• Chlordane • Zinc • Nickel « dhloroform • Copper •
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) • DDT
•VinylChloride* Styr€?ne« Xylene • Aluminum • Chrysene»
Vanadium • Diethyl Phthalate ? Methyiene Chloride
• Hexachlorocyclohexane « 1,2-Dichloroethene •
Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) • 1,4-Dichlorobenzene
• Cobalt • Asbestos • Chlorodibenzofurans (CDFs) •
Benz(a)anthracene • Di-N-Octylphthalate (DNOP)
• Bis (2-Chloroetlhyl) Ether • Benzo(a)pyrene •
1,1-Dichloroethane • Ethylbenzene • Antimony
« N-Nitrosodiphenylamine • 1,1,1-Trichloroethane •
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Introductioki
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created this ibooklet to help you understand
more about some of the contaminants commonly found at Superfund sites.
This booklet consists of contaminant fact sheets prepared by the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and are
based on information in ATSDR's technical toxicological profiles. The fact sheets discuss the
contaminants' known effects on human health, while acknowledging that in some instances
only limited information exists about long-term health effects. The fact sheets summarize
potential adverse health effects associated with exposure to hazardous substances. The fact
sheets are derived from the first chapter of the ATSDR toxicological profiles-the public health
statement-and are written in an easy-to-read format. Generally referred to as ATSDR
ToxFAQs Fact Sheets, the descriptive components of ToxFAQs are outlined below.
ToxFAQs describe: ;
1. Summary of the contaminant;
2. Origin, qualities, and uses of the contaminant;
3. Fate of the contaminant in the environment;
4. Possible routes of human exposure;
5. Known adverse health effects; <
6. Assessment of the contaminant's ability to cause cancer;
7. Affects of contaminant exposure on children;
8. Medical testing used to determine human exposure to the contaminant; and
9. Federal recommendations to protect human health.
Additional Iiiformatioik on the Web
For additional information about the contaminants highlighted in this booklet or other contami-
nants, visit ATSDR and EPA on the Internet. Resources on ATSDR's home page include
electronic versions of ASTDR's ToxFAQs Fact Sheets, and a searchable database commonly
know as the Hazardous Substance Release/Health Effects Database (HazDat). Resources on
ERA'S web site include the Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substance's home page
and the Office of Emergency and Remedial Response's Superfund home page.
• ATSDR ToxFAQs Fact Sheets
httpd/www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html
ToxFAQs are a series of summaries about hazardous substances developed by ATSDR's
Division of Toxicology. Information for this series is excerpted from the ATSDR toxicological
profiles and public health statements. Each fact sheet serves as a quick and easy-to-understand
guide. Answers are provided to the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about exposure to
hazardous substances found around hazardous waste sites and about their human health
effects. ToxFAQs are viewable online using any web browser.
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» ATSDR HazDat Searchable Database
httptfwww. atsdr.cdc.gov/hazdat.html
HazDat, ATSDR's Hazardous Substance Release/Health Effects Database, is the scientific and
administrative database developed to provide access to information on the release of hazardous
substances from Superfund sites or from emergency events, and on the effects of hazardous
substances on the health of human populations. The following information is included in HazDat:
site characteristics, activities and site events, contaminants found, contaminant media and
maximum concentration levels, impact on population, community health concerns, ATSDR public
health threat categorization, ATSDR recommendations, environmental fate of hazardous sub-
stances, exposure routes, and physical hazards at the site/event. In addition, HazDat contains
substance-specific information such as the ATSDR Priority List of Hazardous Substances, health
effects by route and duration of exposure, metabolites, interactions of substances, susceptible
populations, and biomarkers of exposure and effects. HazDat also contains data from the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensa-
tion, and Liability Information System (CERCLIS) database, including site CERCLIS ID number,
site description, latitude/longitude, operable units, and additional site information.
• Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances Chemical
Fact Sheets
httptfwww.epa.gov/chemfact/
ERA'S Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances (OPPTS) provides fact sheets
and chemical summaries. The fact sheets contain general information, and the chemical
summaries discuss technical topics such as the contaminant's physical/chemical properties,
production, and environmental fate.
« Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances
Publication List
httptftuww.epa.gov/opptintr/opptpub.htm
EPA's Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substance's publication list page provides
links to documents, reports, fact sheets, periodicals, and newsletters on chemicals, toxins, and
pollution.
•i. !
• Superfund Home Page
httptfwww.epa.gov/superfund/index.htm
EPA's Office of Emergency and Remedial Response's (OERR) Superfund web site provides
information on the Superfund program. A sampling of the materials available here includes the
following: background information on the Superfund program, site information, initiatives and
programs, regional programs, program accomplishments, partnerships, and more.
If you do not have Internet access and you would like further information
concerning EPA's Superfund hazardous waste cleanup program, call the
Superfund Hotline at (800) 424-9346 or TDD (800) 553-7672. In the
greater Washington, DC area, please call (703) 412-9810.
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Contaminants Highlighted In This Booklet
Acetone
Aldrin/Dieldrin
Aluminum
Antimony
Arsenic
Asbestos
Barium
Benzene
Beryllium
Boron
2-Butanone
Cadmium
Carbon Tetrachloride
Chlordane
Chlorodibenzofurans (CDFs)
Chloroform
Chromium
Cobalt
Copper
Cresols
Cyanide
DDT, DDE, ODD
1,4-Dichlorobenzene
1,1-Dichloroethane
1,2-Dichloroethane
1,1-Dichloroethene
1,2-Dichloroethene
Diethyl Phthalate
Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)
Di-N-Octylphthalate (DNOP)
Ethylbenzene;
Fluorides, Hydrogen Fluoride, Fluorine
Hexachlorocyclohexane
2-Hexanone
Lead
Mercury
Methylene Chloride
Naphthalene
Nickel ;
N-Nitrosodiphenylamine
Pentachlorophenol
Phenol
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
*Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)
Styrene :
Tetrachloroethylene
Thallium
1,1,1 -Trichloroethane
Trichloroethylene
Toluene
Vanadium
Vinyl Chloride;
Xylene
Zinc
* Includes representative contaminants in the PAH group such as benz(a)anthracene,
benzo(a)pyrene, and chrysene.
Document Availability
To order copies of ATSDR's ToxFAQs Fact Sheets, and for information about the fact sheets
currently available in Spanish, contact:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Division of Toxicology-Information Center
Mailstop E-29
1600 Clifton Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30333
Phone: (888) 42-ATSDR
Fax: (404) 639-6359
E-mail: ATSDRIC(5)cdc. aov
To place an order for a copy of this document or other Superfund documents, please fax your
request to the Superfund Document Center at (703) 603-9240 or e-mail your request to the
following address: superfund.documentcentertStepa.aov.
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-ATSDR
ACETONE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about acetone. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to acetone results mostly from tireathing^air, drinking water,,
or coming in contact wth products or soil that contain acetone. Exposure to moderate^
to-nign amounts of acetone can irritate ypmfeyes and respiratory system? and make
you, dizzy, yery high exposure may cause you to lose consciousness. * This chemical
' has been found in at least 572 of 1,416 National Priorities List sites identified by the
Environmental Protection, Agency. ' - /<^\ - ^;'\'\^ f^ ' " ' - * *'^ ''
What is acetone?
(Pronounced as'i-ton')
Acetone is a manufactured chemical that is also found
naturally in the environment. It is a colorless liquid with a
distinct smell and taste. It evaporates easily, is flammable,
and dissolves in water. It is also called dimethyl ketone,
2-propanone, and beta-ketopropane.
Acetone is used to make plastic, fibers, drugs, and other
chemicals. It is also used to dissolve other substances.
It occurs naturally in plants, trees, volcanic gases, forest
fires, and as a product of the breakdown of body fat. It is
present in vehicle exhaust, tobacco smoke, and landfill sites.
Industrial processes contribute more acetone to the environ-
ment than natural processes.
What happens to acetone when it enters: the
environment?
Q A large percentage (97%) of the acetone released during
its manufacture or use goes into the air.
Q In air, about one-half of the total amount breaks down
from sunlight or other chemicals every 22 days.
Q It moves from the atmosphere into the water and soil by
rain and snow. It also moves quickly from soil and water
back to air.
Q Acetone doesn't bind to soil or build up in animals.
Q It's broken down by microorganisms in soil and water.
Q It can move into groundwater from spills or landfills.
Q Acetone is' broken down in water and soil, but the time
required for this to happen varies.
How might I be exposed to acetone?
Q Breathing low background levels in the environment
Q Breathing higher levels of contaminated air in the
workplace; or from using products that contain acetone
(for example, household chemicals, nail polish, and
paint)
Q Drinking water or eating food containing acetone
Q Touching products containing acetone
Q For children, eating soil at landfills or hazardous waste
sites that contain acetone
Q Smoking or breathing secondhand smoke.
How can acetone affect my health?
If you are! exposed to acetone, it goes into your blood
which then carries it to all the organs in your body. If it is a
small amount,; the liver breaks it down to chemicals that are
not harmful and uses these chemicals to make energy for
normal body functions. Breathing moderate- to-high levels
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN CERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Tokic Substances and bisease Registry
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Page 2
ACETONE
AFSDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdncdc.g(Jv:808(VatsdrhQme.html
of acetone for short periods of time, however, can cause
nose, throat, lung, and eye irritation; headaches; light-
headedness; confusion; increased pulse rate; effects on blood;
nausea; vomiting; unconsciousness and possibly coma; and
shortening of the menstrual cycle in women.
Swallowing very high levels of acetone can result in
unconsciousness and damage to the skin in your mouth. Skin
contact can result in irritation and damage to your skin.
The smell and respiratory irritation or burning eyes that
occur from moderate levels are excellent warning signs that
can help you avoid breathing damaging levels of acetone.
Health effects from long-term exposures are known
mostly from animal studies. Kidney, liver, and nerve damage,
increased birth defects, and lowered ability to reproduce
(males only) occurred in animals exposed long-term. It is not
known if people would have these same effects.
How likely is acetone to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not classified
acetone for carcinogenicity.
Acetone does not cause skin cancer in animals when
applied to the skin. We don't know if breathing or swal-
lowing acetone for long periods will cause cancer.
Studies of workers exposed to it found no significant risk
of death from cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to acetone?
Methods are available to measure the amount of acetone
in your breath, blood, and urine. The test can tell you how
much acetone you were exposed to, although the amount that
people have naturally in their bodies varies with each
person. The tests can't tell you if you will experience any
health effects from the exposure.
The test must be perfoirmed within 2-3 days after
exposure because acetone leaves your body within a few
days. These tests are not routinely performed at your
doctor's office, but your doctor can take blood or urine
samples and send them to a testing laboratory.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA requires that spills of 5,000 pounds or more of
acetone be reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a maximum concentration limit in work-
place air of 1,000 parts of acetone per million parts of air
(1,000 ppm) for an 8-hour workday over a 40-hour week to
protect workers. The National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends an exposure limit
of 250 ppm in workplace air for up to a 10-hour workday
over a 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service
Evaporate: To change into a vapor or a gas
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
Long-term: Lasting one ye;ir or longer
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for acetone. Atlanta,
GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Public Health Service.
Where Can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
chmcs. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology 1600
Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315ATSDR Internet'home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
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-ATSDR
ALDRIN/
DIELDRIN
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
This fact sheet answers the most frequency asked health questions about aldrin and dieldrin. For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
s*y>js*traf *-' !*»? vr^^>^"»-^->«*i";»:>?'s*r* £i'»Ss&>i. wiJi
'iifirlVfcr^--«^*'»^-.»^:.">.>i|.«'ir"S-^'«f^--\ Jf^i^rVT*'
What are aldrin and dieldrin?
(Pronounced aT-drin and di-el' drin)
Aldrin and dieldrin are insecticides with similar
structures. They are discussed together in this fact sheet
because aldrin quickly breaks down to dieldrin in the body
and in the environment. Pure aldrin and dieldrin are white
powders with a mild chemical odor. The less pure
commercial powders have a tan color. Aldrin and dieldrin
do not occur naturally in the environment.
From 1950-1970, aldrin and dieldrin were popular
pesticides for crops like corn and cotton. Because of
concerns about damage to the environment and the
potential harm to human health, EPA banned all uses of
aldrin and dieldrin hi 1974 except to control termites. In
1987, EPA banned all uses.
What happens to aldrin and dieldrin when
they enter the environment?
Q Sunlight and bacteria change aldrin to dieldrin so we
mostly find dieldrin in the environment.
Q They bind tightly to soil and slowly evaporate to the air.
Q Dieldrin breaks down very slowly.
Q Plants take in and store aldrin and dieldrin from the soil.
Q Aldrin rapidly changes to dieldrin in plants and animals.
Q Dieldrin is stored in the fat and leaves the body very
slowly.:
How might I be exposed to aldrin or dieldrin?
Q Dieldrin is everywhere in the environment, but at very
low levels.
Q Since its use was banned, most foods contain very
little, if any, dieldrin.
Q Foods such as fish, seafood, dairy products, fatty
meats, and root crops grown in contaminated water or
soil may have higher levels of dieldrin.
Q Air, surface water, or soil near waste sites may also
contain higher levels.
How can aldrin and dieldrin affect my health?
Aldrin and dieldrin mainly affect the central nervous
system.
Accidental or intentional ingestion of high levels of
aldrin and dieldrin result in convulsions and death. These
levels are many thousands of times higher than the average
exposure.
Ingesting moderate levels of aldrin or dieldrin over a
longer period may also cause convulsions. This occurs
because aldrin and dieldrin build up in our bodies.
We don't know the effects of exposure to low levels of
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SJERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
ALDRIN/
DIELDRIN
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
aldrin or dieldrin over a long time. Some workers who
made or applied the insecticides had nervous system
effects with excitation leading to convulsions. Lesser
effects in some workers included:
Q headaches
Q dizziness
Q vomiting
Q irritability
Q uncontrolled muscle movements.
Workers removed from the source of exposure rapidly
recovered from most of these effects.
Studies in animals indicate that aldrin or dieldrin may
reduce the body's ability to resist infection.
How likely are aldrin and dieldrin to cause
cancer?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has
determined that aldrin and dieldrin are not classifiable as to
their carcinogenicity to humans. There is no direct
evidence that aldrin or dieldrin causes cancer in humans.
Studies on workers generally show no increase in cancer or
deaths due to cancer. Mice given high amounts of
dieldrin, however, did develop liver cancers.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to aldrin or dieldrin?
Tests are available that measure the amount of dieldrin
in blood, fat, breast milk, and body tissues. The blood test
is most often used. The amount of dieldrin in the body
indicates how much dieldrin you were exposed to, but not
when, since dieldrin stays in the body for a long time. The
blood test is simple, but not routinely performed at your
doctor's office.
Some studies in people predict that levels above 0.20
milligrams of dieldrin in a liter of blood (0.20 mg/L) may
result in harmful effects such as convulsions or
uncontrollable muscle movements.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
defines aldrin and dieldrin as hazardous solid waste. In
1974, EPA banned all uses of aldrin or dieldrin except as a
termite killer. By 1987, EPA banned all uses. EPA
concludes that the maximum amount of aldrin and dieldrin
that can be present in our water and seafood should not
exceed 74 picograms per liter (pg/L) of aldrin or 71 pg/L
of dieldrin.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates
the residues of aldrin and dieldrin in raw foods. The
allowable range for residues is from 0 to 0.1 parts of
dieldrin to one million parts of food (0-0.1 ppm)
depending on the type of food product. This limits the
intake of aldrin and dieldrin in food to safe levels.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer.
Ingestion: Taking food or drink into you body.
PPM: Parts per million.
Picogram (pg): One billionth of a gram.
Milligram (mg): One millionth of a gram.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Toxicological profile for aldrin/dieldrin.
Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333,
Phone: 404-639-6000.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
_ATSDR
ALUMINUM
CAS # 7429-90-5
Asencv for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQsj
June 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about aluminum. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information
because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the
dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: Everyone is exposed to low levels of aluminum from food, air,
and water. Exposure to Ihigh leveis of aluminum may result in respiratory
problems. Aluminum has been foind in at least 427 of the 1,467 National Priorities
List sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
What is aluminum?
(Pronounced g-loO'ms
Aluminum occurs naturally and makes up about 8% of
the surface of the earth. It is always found combined with
other elements such as oxygen, silicon, and fluorine.
Aluminum metal is silver-white and flexible. It is often
used in cooking utensils, containers, appliances, and build-
ing materials. It is also used in paints and fireworks; to
produce glass, rubber, and ceramics; and in consumer
products such as antacids, astringents, buffered aspirin, food
additives, and antiperspirants.
What happens to aluminum when it enters
the environment?
Q It binds to particles in the air.
Q It can dissolve in lakes, streams, and rivers depending on
the quality of the water.
Q Acid rain may dissolve aluminum from soil and rocks.
Q It can be taken up into some plants from soil.
Q It is not known to bioconcentrate up the food chain.
How might I be exposed to aluminum?
Q Eating small amounts of aluminum in food
a Breathing higher levels of aluminum dust in workplace
air |
Q Drinking water with high levels of aluminum near waste
sites, manufacturing plants, or areas naturally high hi
aluminum
Q Eating substances containing high levels of aluminum
(such as antacids) especially when eating or drinking
citrus products at the same tune
Q Very little enters your body from aluminum cooking
utensils.
How can aluminum affect my health?
Low-level exposure to aluminum from food, ah", water, or
contact with skin is not thought to harm your health. Alumi-
num, however,,is not a necessary substance for our bodies and
too much may be harmful.
People who are exposed to high levels of aluminum hi air
may have respiratory problems including coughing and
asthma from breathing dust.
Some studies show that people with Alzheimer's disease
have more aluminum than usual in their brains. We do not
know whether aluminum causes the disease or whether the
buildup of aluminum happens to people who already have the
disease. Infants and adults who received large doses of
aluminum as a treatment for another problem developed bone
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEAIJTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Tsxic Substances and bisease Registry
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Page 2
ALUMINUM
CAS # 7429-90-5
diseases, which suggests that aluminum may cause skeletal
problems. Some sensitive people develop skin rashes from
using aluminum chlorohydrate deodorants.
How likely is aluminum to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the EPA
have not classified aluminum for carcinogenicity. Aluminum
has not been shown to cause cancer in animals.
How can aluminum affect children?
Children with kidney problems who were given alumi-
num in their medical treatments developed bone diseases.
Other health effects of aluminum on children have not been
studied. It is not known whether aluminum affects children
differently than adults, or what the long-term effects might be
in adults exposed as children. Large amounts of aluminum
have been shown to be harmful to unborn and developing
animals because it can cause delays in skeletal and neurologi-
cal development. Aluminum has been shown to cause lower
birthweights in some animals.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure
to aluminum?
The most important way families can lower exposure to
aluminum is to know about the sources of aluminum and
lessen exposure to these sources. Since aluminum is so
common and widespread in the environment, families cannot
avoid exposure to aluminum. Exposure to the low levels of
aluminum that are naturally present in food and water and the
forms of aluminum present in dirt and aluminum cookware is
generally not harmful. The best way to reduce exposure to
aluminum is to avoid taking large quantities of soluble forms
of aluminum such as aluminum-containing antacids and
buffered aspirin. Make sure these products have child-proof
caps so children will not accidentally eat them. Some soy-
based formulas may contain high levels of aluminum, so
parents may want to consult with their physician when
choosing an infant formula.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to aluminum?
There are tests to measure aluminum in blood, urine, and
feces. The amount in your urine can tell you whether you
have been exposed to higher than normal levels of alumi-
num. Tests can also detect aluminum in your hair and
fingernails. Not all of these tests are routinely performed at
your doctor's office, but your doctor can take samples and
send them to a testing laboratory.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
EPA requires that spills or accidental releases of 5,000
pounds or more of aluminum sulfate be reported. Special
regulations are set for aluminum phosphide because it is a
pesticide.
EPA recommends that the concentration of aluminum in
drinking water not exceed 0.2 parts of aluminum per million
parts of water (0.2 ppm) because of aesthetic effects, such as
taste and odor problems.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deter-
mined that aluminum cooking utensils, aluminum foil,
antiperspirants, antacids, and other aluminum products are
generally safe.
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
1999. Toxicological Profile for Aluminum. Atlanta, GA: U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
Service.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
FlxSSr^Vr FAn°f' 160° Clifton Road NE, Mailstpp E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-888-422-8737,
FAX 404-639-6359 ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html ATSDR can tell you where
torn I™?* r°n h and.enviroi!mental ^ clinics- ^ir specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting
contact your co—ity or state health °r
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
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-ATSDR
ANTIMONY
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about antimony. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
What is antimony?
(Pronounced an'ts-mo'ng)
Antimony is a silvery-white metal that is found in the
earth's crust. Antimony ores are mined and then mixed with
other metals to form antimony alloys or combined with
oxygen to form antimony oxide.
Little antimony is currently mined in the United States.
It is brought into this country from other countries for
processing. However, there are companies in the United
States that produce antimony as a by-product of smelting
lead and other metals.
Antimony isn't used alone because it breaks easily, but
when mixed into alloys, it is used in lead storage batteries,
solder, sheet and pipe metal, bearings, castings, and pewter.
Antimony oxide is added to textiles and plastics to prevent
them from catching fire. It is also used in paints, ceramics,
and fireworks, and as enamels for plastics, metal, arid glass.
What happens to antimony when it enters
the environment?
Q Antimony is released to the environment from natural
sources and from industry.
G In the air, antimony is attached to very small particles
that may stay in the air for many days.
Q Most antimony ends up in soil, where it attaches strongly
to particles that contain iron, manganese, or aluminum.
Q Antimony is found at low levels in some rivers, lakes,
and streams.
How might I be exposed to antimony?
Q Because antimony is found naturally in the environment,
the general population is exposed to low levels of it
every day, primarily in food, drinking water, and air.
Q It may be found in air near industries that process or
release it, sbch as smelters, coal-fired plants, and refuse
incinerators.
Q In polluted areas containing high levels of antimony, it
may be found in the air, water, and soil.
Q Workers in'industries that process it or use antimony ore
may be exposed to higher levels.
How can antimony affect my health?
Exposure to antimony at high levels can result in a
variety of adverse health effects.
Breathing high levels for a long time can irritate your
eyes and lungs 'and can cause heart and lung problems,
stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach ulcers.
In short-term studies, animals that breathed very high
levels of antimony died. Animals that breathed high levels
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Tokic Substances and Disease Registry
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ANTIMONY
ArSDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gW:8080/atsdrnome.html
had lung, heart, liver, and kidney damage. In long-term
studies, animals that breathed very low levels of antimony
had eye irritation, hair loss, lung damage, and heart prob-
lems. Problems with fertility were also noted. In animal
studies, problems with fertility have been seen when rats
breathed very high levels of antimony for a few months.
Ingesting large doses of antimony can cause vomiting.
We don't know what other effects may be caused by ingesting
it. Long-term animal studies have reported liver damage and
blood changes when animals ingested antimony. Antimony
can irritate the skin if it is left on it.
Antimony can have beneficial effects when used for
medical reasons. It has been used as a medicine to treat
people infected with parasites.
How likely is antimony to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not classi-
fied antimony as to its human carcinogenicity.
Lung cancer has been observed in some studies of rats
that breathed high levels of antimony. No human studies are
available. We don't know whether antimony will cause
cancer in people.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to antimony?
Tests are available to measure antimony levels in the
body. Antimony can be measured in the urine, feces, and
blood for several days after exposure. However, these tests
cannot tell you how much antimony you have been exposed
to or whether you will experience any health effects. Some
tests are not usually performed in most doctors' offices and
may require special equipment to conduct them.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
i '• I
The EPA allows 0.006 parts of antimony per million
parts of drinking water (0.006 ppm). The EPA requires that
discharges or spills into the environment of 5,000 pounds or
more of antimony be reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an occupational exposure limit of 0.5 milli-
grams of antimony per cubic meter of air (0.5 mg/m3) for an
8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The American Conference of Governmental Indus-
trial Hygienists (ACGIH) and the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) currently
recommend the same guidelines for the workplace as OSHA.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
Long-term: Lasting one year or more
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Parasite: An organism living in or on another organism
PPM: Parts per million
Short-term: Lasting 14 days or less
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for antimony. Atlanta,
GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service.
Where can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
climes. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600
Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315ATSDR Internet home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
ARSENIC
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about arsenic. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to higher than average levels of arsenic happens mostly in the
workplace, near hazardous waste sites, or in areas with high natural levels. Arsenic is
a powerful poison. At high levels, it can cause death or illness. This chemical has
been^und in at least 781 of 1,300 National Priorities List sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency. .=•-.- '-\V>..>y:>V^\V. v'v>;,-....-, -...'" • . '• .'V:
What is arsenic?
(Pronounced ar' se^-nik)
Arsenic is found in nature at low levels. It's mostly in
compounds with oxygen, chlorine, and sulfur. These are
called inorganic arsenic compounds. Arsenic in plants
and animals combines with carbon and hydrogen. This is
called organic arsenic. Organic arsenic is usually less
harmful than inorganic arsenic.
Most arsenic compounds have no smell or special
taste.
Inorganic arsenic compounds are mainly used to
preserve wood. They are also used to make insecticides
and weed killers. You can check the labels of treated
wood and insecticides to see if they contain arsenic.
Copper and lead ores contain small amounts of arsenic.
What happens to arsenic when it enters the
environment?
Q It doesn't evaporate.
Q Most arsenic compounds can dissolve in water.
Q It gets into air when contaminated materials are
burned.
Q It settles from the air to the ground.
Q It doesn't break down, but can change from one form
to another.
Q Fish and shellfish build up organic arsenic in their
tissues, but most of the arsenic in fish isn't toxic.
How might I be exposed to arsenic?
Q Breathing sawdust or burning smoke from wood
containing arsenic
Q Breathing workplace air
Q Ingesting contaminated water, soil, or air at waste
sites
Q Ingesting contaminated water, soil, or air near areas
naturally high in arsenic.
How can arsenic affect my health?
Inorganic' arsenic is a human poison. Organic arsenic
is less harmful.
High levels of inorganic arsenic in food or water can
be fatal. A high level is 60 parts of arsenic per million
parts of food or water (60 ppm). Arsenic damages many
tissues including nerves, stomach and intestines, and skin.
Breathing high levels can give you a sore throat and
irritated lungs.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEAI/:H AND HUMA^ SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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ARSENIC
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
Lower levels of exposure to inorganic arsenic may
cause:
Q Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Q Decreased production of red and white blood cells
Q Abnormal heart rhythm
Q Blood vessel damage
Q A "pins and needles" sensation in hands and feet.
Long term exposure to inorganic arsenic may lead to
a darkening of the skin and the appearance of small
"corns" or "warts" on the palms, soles, and torso.
Direct skin contact may cause redness and swelling.
How likely is arsenic to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that arsenic is a known
carcinogen. Breathing inorganic arsenic increases the risk
of lung cancer. Ingesting inorganic arsenic increases the
risk of skin cancer and tumors of the bladder, kidney,
liver, and lung.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to arsenic?
Tests can measure your exposure to high levels of
arsenic. These tests are not routinely performed in a
doctor's office.
Arsenic can be measured in your urine. This is the
most reliable test for arsenic exposure. Since arsenic stays
in the body only a short time, you must have the test soon
after exposure.
Tests on hair or fingernails can measure your exposure
to high levels of arsenic over the past 6-12 months. These
tests are not very useful for low level exposures.
These tests do not predict whether you will have any
harmful health effects.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets
limits on the amount of arsenic that industrial sources can
release. It restricted or canceled many uses of arsenic in
pesticides and may restrict more. EPA set a limit of 0.05
parts per million (ppm) for arsenic in drinking water. EPA
may lower this further.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) established a maximum permissible exposure limit
for workplace airborne arsenic of 10 micrograms per cubic
meter ((xg/m3).
Glossary
Carcinogen: Substance that can cause cancer.
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body.
PPM: Parts per million.
Microgram (ug): One millionth of a gram.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Toxicological profile for arsenic.
Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Public Health Service.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Case studies in environmental medicine:
Arsenic toxicity. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333,
Phone: 404-639-6000.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled P^ipei
-------
553P\ *
JSDR
ASBESTOS
CAS # 1332-21-4
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1996
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about asbestos. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exp"oswre;%asbest»s duallyoccurs toy bVeaihmg contaminated air in
\forkplaces that ma^e or use asbestos./Asbestos is also found in the air of buildings,
. containing asbestos that are Ijfeirig torn do;wn or^renpvated. Asbestos exposure/can
clause caneerjind other:serious lung problemsi This subs'tance has Been,found in,
sites identified by the Environmental
'
What is asbestos?
(Pronounced as-bes'tes)
Asbestos is the name that's used for a group of six
different fibrous minerals (amosite, chrysotile, crocidolite,
and the fibrous varieties of tremolite, actinolite, and
anthophyllite) that occur naturally in soil and rocks in some
areas. Asbestos fibers vary in length and may be straight or
curled.
Asbestos fibers are resistant to heat and most chemicals.
Because of this, asbestos fibers are used for a wide range of
manufactured goods, mostly roofing shingles, ceiling and
floor tiles, paper products, asbestos cement products, friction
products (automobile clutch, brake, and transmission parts),
textiles, packaging, gaskets, and coatings.
What happens to asbestos when it enters the
environment?
Q Asbestos can enter the air and water from the weather-
ing of natural deposits and the wearing down of manu-
factured asbestos products, such as brake pads.
Q Small fibers may remain suspended in the air for a long
time before settling. Larger fibers tend to settle more
quickly.
Asbestos fibers aren't able to move through soil and they
aren't broken down to other compounds in the environ-
ment. Therefore, they can remain in the environment for
decades or longer.
Asbestos fibers may build up in animals.
How might I be exposed to asbestos?
Q Breathing low levels in air. •
Q Breathing higher levels in air while working in industries
that make or use asbestos products or near a building that
contains asbestos products and is being torn down or
renovated.
Q Breathing higher levels in air near an asbestos-related
industry or hear an asbestos-containing waste site.
Q Drinking water containing asbestos from natural sources
or from asbestos-containing cement pipes in drinking
water distribution systems.
How can asbestos affect my health?
Asbestos mainly affects the lungs. Changes in the mem-
brane surrounding the lung are quite common in workers
exposed to asbestos. These are also sometimes found in
people living in areas with high levels of asbestos in the air,
but effects on breathing usually aren't serious.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease; Registry
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ASBESTOS
CAS # 1332-21-4
AT SDR Internet home page via WWW ijs http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.g
-------
-ATSDR
BARIUM
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about barium. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
^ SUMMARp Exposure ty btrium Recurs mostly iii the,%orkplacl or fronxdrinking
contaminated wafer. Inges|ipg nigh levels oibarram can e4use^problenis with the
lieart,^toi^acn, U/er, kiineySj,^
in at least 649 of i$416$Jational^Priorities^LtetiitesCidentified by tne Enviropnienml
\N f/ j <& * * ^ \ "^ " ^ff,/*/'/'ij x«> ;> A/ ^\ l S f* ' 'r S, sf
ProtectionAgepcy. , « ^ ^ \_ ^ **, - ;^ ;' ,vvr^ * 7 J .."
What is barium?
(Pronounced bar/e-sm)
Barium is a silvery-white metal found in nature. It oc-
curs combined with other chemicals such as sulfur or carbon
and oxygen. These combinations are called compounds.
Barium compounds can also be produced by industry.
Barium compounds are used by the oil and gas industries
to make drilling muds. Drilling muds make it easier to drill
through rock by keeping the drill bit lubricated. They are
also used to make paint, bricks, tiles, glass, and rubber.
A barium compound (barium sulfate) is sometimes used
by doctors to perform medical tests and to take x-rays of the
stomach.
What happens to barium when it enters the
environment?
Q Barium gets into the air during the mining, refining, and
production of barium compounds, and from the burning
of coal and oil.
Q Some barium compounds dissolve easily in water and
are found in lakes, rivers, and streams.
Q Barium is found in most soils and foods at low levels.
Q Fish and aquatic organisms accumulate barium.
How might I be exposed to barium?
Q Breathing very low levels in air, drinking water, and
eating food
Q Breathing higher levels in air while working in industries
that make or use barium compounds
G Drinking water containing high levels of barium from
natural sources
Q Breathing air near barium mining or processing plants.
How can barium affect my health?
The health effects of the different barium compounds
depend on how well the compound dissolves in water.
Barium compounds that do not dissolve well in water are
not generally harmful and are often used by doctors for
medical purposes.
Those barium compounds that dissolve well in water
may cause harmful health effects in people. Ingesting high
levels of barium compounds that dissolve well in water over
the short term has resulted in
Q Difficulties in breathing
D Increased blood pressure
HI Changes in heart rhythm
Q Stomach irritation
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
BARIUM
VTvSDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdncdc.gW:8080/atsdrhome.html
Q Brain swelling
D Muscle weakness
Q Damage to the liver, kidney, heart, and spleen.
We don't know the effects in people of ingesting low levels
of barium over the long term. Animal studies have found
increased blood pressure and changes in the heart from
ingesting barium over a long time. We don't know the effects
of barium from breathing it or from touching it.
How likely is barium to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not
classified barium as to its human carcinogenicity.
Barium has not been classified because there are no
studies in people and the two available animal studies were
inadequate to determine whether or not barium causes cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to barium?
There is no routine medical test to show whether you
have been exposed to barium. However, doctors can measure
barium in the blood, bones, urine, and feces, using very
complex instruments. Due to the complexity of the tests,
these tests are usually done only for cases of severe barium
poisoning and for medical research.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
EPA allows 2 parts of barium per million parts of
drinking water (2 ppm). EPA requires that discharges or
spills into the environment of 10 pounds or more of barium
cyanide be reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA), the National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH), and the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) have set an
occupational exposure limit of 0.5 milligrams of soluble
barium compounds per cubic meter of air (0.5 mg/m3) for an
8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The OSHA exposure limit for barium sulfate dust in air
is 5 to 15 milligrams of barium per cubic meter of air (5-
15 mg/m3).
NIOSH currently recommends that a level of
50 mg/m3 be considered immediately dangerous to life
and health. This is the exposure level of barium that is
likely to cause permanent health problems or death.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
PPM: Parts per million
Short-term: Lasting 14 days or less
Soluble: Dissolves well in liquid
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for barium. Atlanta,
GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology 1600
Clifton Road MB, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315ATSDR Internet'home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
=ATSDR
BENZENE
CAS# 71-43-2
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs;
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about benzene. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information
because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the
dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
> mproi^HTS^A^ene" is^^tlr'us&l ftiemiMl formed front Vti naWal '
^proceSe^ailaj^^
_v<- _ "*i ' J| ___^_ _ _ , ., ^ * _. __ —.jS-"*lt __T1 Tt ^. -i^" _— 'J*-*?*- &-^- — 1—. -^. —. *+***.<*~f**. f^^f «fc» ^n *-**»-m*^. **^«,«^«^W>H' *v**?^k ^k.4«
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BENZENE
CAS# 71-43-2
loxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.g6v:8080/ToxFAQ.html
can cause vomiting, irritation of the stomach, dizziness,
sleepiness, convulsions, rapid heart rate, and death.
The major effect of benzene from long-term (365 days or
longer) exposure is on the blood. Benzene causes harmful
effects on the bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red
blood cells leading to anemia. It can also cause excessive
bleeding and can affect the immune system, increasing the
chance for infection.
Some women who breathed high levels of benzene for
many months had irregular menstrual periods and a decrease
in the size of their ovaries. It is not known whether benzene
exposure affects the developing fetus in pregnant women or
fertility in men.
Animal studies have shown low birth weights, delayed
bone formation, and bone marrow damage when pregnant ani-
mals breathed benzene.
How likely is benzene to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that benzene is a known human car-
cinogen. Long-term exposure to high levels of benzene in the
air can cause leukemia, cancer of the blood-forming organs.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to benzene?
Several test can show if you have been exposed to ben-
zene. There is test for measuring benzene in the breath; this
test must be done shortly after exposure. Benzene can also be
measured in the blood, however, since benzene disappears
rapidly from the blood, measurements are accurate only for
recent exposures.
In the body, benzene is converted to products called me-
tabolites. Certain metabolites can be measured in the urine.
However, this test must be done shortly after exposure and is
not a reliable indicator of how much benzene you have been
exposed to, since the metabolites may be present in urine
from other sources.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set the maximum permissible level of ben-
zene in drinking water at 0.005 milligrams per liter (0.005
mg/L). The EPA requires that spills or accidental releases into
the environment of 10 pounds or more of benzene be reported
to the EPA.
The Occupational Satfety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a permissible exposure limit of 1 part of ben-
zene per million parts of air (1 ppm) in the workplace during
an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Anemia: A decreased ability of the blood to transport oxygen
Carcinogen: A substance with the ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Metabolites: Breakdown products of chemicals
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Pesticide: A substance thai: kills pests
Source of Information
This ToxFAQs. information is taken from the 1997 Toxico-
logical Profile for Benzene (update) produced by the Agency
for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Public Health Ser-
vice, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333 Phone- 1-800-
447-1544, FAX: 404-639-6359. ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/ToxFAQ.html
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evalu-
ate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state
health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
BERYLLIUM
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about beryllium. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health eflfects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure tbVerylliuitn happens mostly in'the workplace, near some
hazardous waste sites, and from breathing tobacco smoke. Lung damage has been
observed in some people who have breathed contaminated air. Some people become
highly sensitive to beryllium exposure. Beryllium has been found in at least 349 of
1 300 National Priorities List sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency.
' .. — — •
What is beryllium?
(Pronounced ber-il' le-um)
Pure beryllium is a hard, grayish metal. In nature,
beryllium can be found in compounds in mineral rocks,
coal, soil, and volcanic dust. Beryllium compounds are
commercially mined, and the beryllium purified for use in
electrical parts, machine parts, ceramics, aircraft parts,
nuclear weapons, and mirrors.
Beryllium compounds have no particular smell.
What happens to beryllium when it enters the
environment?
Q Beryllium dust gets into air from burning coal and oil.
Q Beryllium dusts settles from air to the soil and water.
Q It enters water from rocks and soil, and from industrial
waste.
Q Some beryllium compounds dissolve in water, but most
settle to the bottom as particles.
Q Beryllium particles in ocean water may take a few
hundred years to settle to the bottom.
Q Most beryllium in soil doesn't move up to the surface
or into the groundwater.
Q Fish do not build up beryllium in their bodies from the
surrounding water to any great extent.
How might I be exposed to beryllium?
Q Background levels in air, food, and water are low.
Q Breathing contaminated workplace air (e.g., mining or
processing ores, alloy and chemical manufacturing
with beryllium, machining or recycling metals
containing beryllium)
Q Beaming tobacco smoke from leaf high in beryllium
Q Breathing contaminated air or ingesting water or food
near industry or hazardous waste sites.
How can beryllium affect my health?
Beryllium can be harmful if you breathe it. The effects
depend on how much you are exposed to and for how
long.
High levels of beryllium in air cause lung damage and
a disease that resembles pneumonia. If you stop breathing
beryllium dust, the lung damage may heal.
Some'people become sensitive to beryllium. This is
called a hypersensitivity or allergy. These individuals
develop an inflammatory reaction to low levels of
beryllium. This condition is called chronic beryllium
U S DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN U~- , -
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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BERYLLIUM
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
disease, and can occur long after exposure to small
amounts of beryllium. This disease can make you feel
weak and tired, and can cause difficulty in breathing.
Both the short-term, pneumonia-like disease and the
chronic beryllium disease can cause death.
Swallowing beryllium has not been reported to cause
effects in humans because very little beryllium can move
from the stomach and intestines into the bloodstream.
Beryllium contact with scraped or cut skin can cause
rashes or ulcers.
How likely is beryllium to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that beryllium and certain
beryllium compounds may reasonably be anticipated to be
carcinogens. This determination is based on animal
studies and studies in workers. None of the studies
provide conclusive evidence, but when taken as a whole,
they indicate that long-term exposure to beryllium in the
air results in an increase in lung cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to beryllium?
Tests can measure beryllium in the urine and blood.
The amount of beryllium in blood or urine may not
indicate how much or how recently you were exposed.
Small amounts of human lung and skin can also be
removed from the body and examined for beryllium.
These tests can be done in a doctor's office or hi a hospital.
One test uses blood cells washed out of the lung. If
these cells start growing in the presence of beryllium, you
are probably sensitive to beryllium and may have chronic
beryllium disease.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
restricts the amount of beryllium that industries may emit
into the environment to 10 grams (g) in a 24-hour period,
or to an amount that would result in atmospheric levels of
0.01 micrograms (ug) beryllium per cubic meter (m3)of
air, averaged over a 30-day period.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) recommends a standard for occupational
exposure of 0.5 u.g beryllium/m3 of workroom air during
an 8-hour shift to protect workers from potential cancer.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) sets a limit of 2 |j.g beryllium/m3 of workroom air
for an 8-hour work shift.
Glossary
Carcinogen: Substance that can cause cancer.
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body.
Hypersensitivity: A greater than normal bodily response
; to a foreign agent.
Microgram (ug): One millionth of a gram.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Toxicological profile for beryllium
Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Public Health Service.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Case studies in environmental medicine:
Beryllium toxicity. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29 Atlanta GA 30333
Phone:404-639-6000.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
BORON
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about boron. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
r: Exposure to tioron occurs in tlje workplace o* focusing certain
t/v / XN>, £ "* «• £, ss , ^ * \ v f i "• '"'* 3 f^i-^-f ^ &/ ' s *" / / '
Consumer, products. Breathing moderate levels uo^boron irritates tlie pp^e, Mroat,
this chemical has been ftmid m;atie^!?t 142l|f 1,^16 National triorMes
JList sites identffie<44y the Environmental Protection Agency.
-'-s - ^ ,->*• ./>> .*?<«!?.«* »•» * s - >," ,
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Page 2
BORON
ArSDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gj)v:8080/atsdrh6me.html
brain. Animal studies of ingestion of boron found effects on
the testes in male animals. Birth defects were also seen in
the offspring of female animals exposed during pregnancy.
We don't know what the effects are in people from skin
contact with boron. Animal studies have found skin irritation
when boron was applied directly to the skin.
How likely is boron to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not classi-
fied boron as to its human carcinogenicity.
One animal study found no evidence of cancer after
lifetime exposure to boric acid in food. No human studies
are available.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to boron?
Tests are available to measure boron levels in blood and
urine. These tests must be done shortly after exposure,
because most excess boron leaves the body through the urine
within a few days of exposure.
These tests are not usually performed in doctors' offices
because special equipment is needed to conduct them. It is
not known whether boron levels measured in the body can be
used to predict whether health problems will occur.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA allows no more than 30 parts of boron per
million parts of cottonseed oil (30 ppm) and 8 ppm of boron
in or on citrus fruits.
The EPA requires that discharges or spills into the
environment of 100 pounds of more of boron trichloride and
boron trifluoride be reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an occupational exposure limit of 15 milli-
grams per cubic meter (15 mg/m3) for boron oxide dust in
workplace air for an 8-honr workday, 40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) currently recommends an occupational
exposure limit of 10 mg/m3 for boron oxide dust.
NIOSH also recommends that 25 ppm boron trifluoride
be considered immediately dangerous to life and health.
This is the exposure level of a chemical that is likely to
cause permanent health problems or death.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows no
more than 310 ppm of boron as a food additive.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Pesticides: Chemicals used to kill pests
PPM: Parts per million
Short-term: Lasting 14 days or less
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for boron. Atlanta,
GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service.
Where can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
climes. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
y°U-r °0mmVnity or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
^ 0rLin-?,rman°,nACAn,taCt: ^gen°y f0rToXi° Substances and Dise** Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600
Clifton Road NE Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315ATSDR Internet home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
2-BUTANONE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about 2-butanone. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to 2-butan^
consumer products containing it, ^d irritations of theses," npst,, and .threat
were seen in people wnVTjrejattied 2-butanone. Jhis^chemital hiis been foimid in
at least 4l2 of Ipll^ationalfriorities Listsites identified by the.Enviroiinieiital
•v. ^ ^ fv j &*^ ^.s * ' f •>? * $/^ " ^ ^ f&** ~** ^ ,- s "*" +t"" * /* x^^
Protection Agency.' .* v> , //**-\ -«*vs' > ', : * „.*' /^^\ ^
X i ^"^ •, -^ , -1. . -i V* ^"^ \ '*J,, -- ~",V1^ ~^ . ^ •* <
What is 2-butanone?
(Pronounced 2-byoo't9-n5n)
2-Butanone is a manufactured chemical but it is also
present in the environment from natural sources. It is a
colorless liquid with a sharp, sweet odor. It is also known as
methyl ethyl ketone (MEK).
2-Butanone is produced in large quantities. Nearly half
of its use is in paints and other coatings because it will
quickly evaporate into the air and it dissolves many
substances. It is also used in glues and as a cleaning agent.
2-Butanone occurs as a natural product. It is made by
some trees and found in some fruits and vegetables in small
amounts. It is also released to the air from car and truck
exhausts.
What happens to 2-butanone when it enters
the environment?
Q 2-Butanone enters the air during production, use and
transport, and from hazardous waste sites.
O In air, one-half of it will break down from sunlight
in 1 day or less.
Q It dissolves in water and is broken down more slowly to
a simpler chemical form in about 2 weeks.
Q It does not stick to soil and will travel through the soil to
the groundyvater.
Q Some of the 2-butanone in soil or water will evaporate
into the air.
Q It does not deposit in the bottom of rivers or lakes.
Q It is not expected to concentrate in fish or increase in the
tissues of animals further up the food chain.
How might I be exposed to 2-butanone?
Q Breathing contaminated air from the production or use of
paints, glues, coatings, or cleaning agents containing it
Q Breathing contaminated air near hazardous waste sites
Q Breathing cigarette smoke
Q Sniffing glues
Q Drinking contaminated water from wells near manufac-
turing or hazardous waste sites
Q Skin contact with the liquid during production or use.
How can 2-butanone affect my health?
The known health effects to people from exposure to
2-butanone are'irritation of the nose, throat, skin, and eyes.
No one has died from breathing 2-butanone alone. If 2-buta-
none is breathed along with other chemicals that damage
health, it can increase the amount of damage that occurs.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and pisease Registry
-------
Serious health effects in animals have been seen only at
very high levels. When breathed, these effects included birth
defects, loss of consciousness, and death.
When swallowed, rats had nervous system effects
including drooping eyelids and uncoordinated muscle move-
ments. There was no damage to the ability to reproduce.
Mice who breathed low levels for a short time showed
temporary behavioral effects. Mild kidney damage was seen
in animals that drank water with lower levels of 2-butanone
for a short time.
There are no long-term studies with animals either
breathing or drinking 2-butanone.
How likely is 2-butanone to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services has not
classified 2-butanone as to its human carcinogenicity.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer and
the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have also not
classified 2-butanone as to its human carcinogenicity.
Two studies of workers exposed to 2-butanone and other
chemicals did not find an increase in cancer. No animal
studies are available that examine the potential for
2-butanone to cause cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to 2-butanone?
Tests are available to measure 2-butanone or its break-
down products in blood, breath, and urine. These tests are
useful only to measure recent exposures because 2-butanone
and its breakdown products leave the body rapidly. These
tests are not usually performed at your doctor's' office, but
your doctor can take blood or urine samples and send them
to a testing laboratory.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA requires that discharges or spills into the
environment of 5,000 pounds of more of 2-butanone be
reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) set an occupational exposure limit of 200 parts of
2-butanone per million parts of workplace air (200 ppm) for
an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The American Conference of Governmental Indus-
trial Hygienists (ACGIH) and the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have established
the same guidelines as OSHA for the workplace.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstract Services
Evaporate: To change into a vapor or a gas
PPM: Parts per million
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
Short time: Lasting 14 days or less
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for 2-butanone.
Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
r
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_ATSDR
CADMIUM
CAS # 7440-43-9
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs I
June 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about cadmium. For more information,
call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact shept is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information because this
substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration,
how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: Exposure to cadmium happens mostly in the workplace where
cadmium products are made. The~general population is exposed from breathing
cigarette sihoke or eating cadmium contaminated foods. Cadmium damages
the lungs, can cause kidney disease, and may irritate the digestive tract. This
substance has been found in at least 776 of the 1,467 National Priorities List
sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
What is cadmium?
(Pronounced cad' me um)
Cadmium is a natural element in the earth's crust. It is
usually found as a mineral combined with other elements such
as oxygen (cadmium oxide), chlorine (cadmium chloride), or
sulfur (cadmium sulfate, cadmium sulfide).
All soils and rocks, including coal and mineral fertilizers,
contain some cadmium. Most cadmium used in the United
States is extracted during the production of other metals like
zinc, lead, and copper. Cadmium does not corrode easily and
has many uses, including batteries, pigments, metal coatings,
and plastics.
What happens to cadmium when it enters the
environment?
Q Cadmium enters air from mining, industry, and burning
coal and household wastes.
Q Cadmium particles in air can travel long distances before
falling to the ground or water.
Q It enters water and soil from waste disposal and spills or
leaks at hazardous waste sites.
Q It binds strongly to soil particles.
Q Some cadmium dissolves in water.
Q It doesn't break down in the environment, but can change
forms.
Q Fish, plants, land animals take up cadmium from the envi-
ronment.
Q Cadmium stays in the body a very long time and can
build up from many years of exposure to low levels.
How might I be exposed to cadmium?
Q Breathing contaminated workplace air (battery manufac-
turing, metal soldering or welding)
Q Eating foods containing it; low levels in all foods (high-
est in shellfish, liver, and kidney meats)
Q Breaming cadmium in cigarette smoke (doubles the aver-
age daily intake)
Q Drinking contaminated water
Q Breaming contaminated air near the burning of fossil
fuels or municipal waste
How can cadmium affect my health?
Breathing high levels of cadmium severely damages the
lungs and can cause death. Eating food or drinking water with
very high levels severely irritates the stomach, leading to
vomiting and diarrhea. Long-term exposure to lower levels of
cadmium in air, food, or water leads to a buildup of cadmium
in the kidneys and possible kidney disease.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for To dc Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
CADMIUM
CAS # 7740-43-9
Other long-term effects are lung damage and fragile
bones. Animals given cadmium in food or water had high
blood pressure, iron-poor blood, liver disease, and nerve or
brain damage.
We don't know if humans get any of these diseases from
eating or drinking cadmium. Skin contact with cadmium is not
known to cause health effects in humans or animals.
How likely is cadmium to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has
determined that cadmium and cadmium compounds may rea-
sonably be anticipated to be carcinogens.
How can cadmium affect children?
The health effects in children are expected to be similar to
those in adults (kidney, lung and intestinal damage).
We don't know if cadmium causes birth defects in people.
Cadmium does not readily go from a pregnant woman's body
into the developing child, but some portion can cross the pla-
centa. It can also be found in breast milk. The babies of ani-
mals exposed to high levels of cadmium during pregnancy had
changes in behavior and learning ability. Cadmium may also
affect birth weight and the skeleton in developing animals.
Animal studies also indicate that more cadmium is ab-
sorbed into the body if the diet is low in calcium, protein, or
iron, or is high in fat. A few studies show that younger animals
absorb more cadmium and are more likely to lose bone and
bone strength than adults.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure to
cadmium?
In the home, store substances that contain cadmium safely,
and keep nickel-cadmium batteries out of reach of young
children. If you work with cadmium, use all safety precautions
to avoid carrying cadmium-containing dust home from work
on your clothing, skin, hair, or tools.
A balanced diet can reduce the amount of cadmium taken
into the body from food and drink.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been
exposed to cadmium?
Tests are available in some medical laboratories that mea-
sure cadmium in blood, urine, hair, or nails. Blood levels
show recent exposure to cadmium, and urine levels show both
recent and earlier exposure. The reliability of tests for cad-
mium levels in hair or nails is unknown.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a limit of 5 parts of cadmium per billion
parts of drinking water (5 p>pb). EPA doesn't allow cadmium in
pesticides.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) limits the
amount of cadmium in food colors to 15 parts per million
(15ppm).
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) limits workplace air to 100 micrograms cadmium per
cubic meter (100 ug/m3) as cadmium fumes and 200 ug cad-
mium/m3 as cadmium dust.
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1999. Toxicological Profile for Cadmium. Atlanta:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
Service.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
pAng3r- 16TOC!>ft°nRoadNE. MailstopE-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-888-422-8737,
fi H , ^ SS Intemet addrCSS Via V™™is h«p://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html ATSDR can tell you
from eZrto h "Z™"?"** heallh clinics' ™* ^lists can recognize "evaluate, and treat i fnes'ses
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
CARBON TETRACHLORIDE
Agency for Toxic Substances ahd Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about carbon tetrachloride. For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY^ Exposure, to d^bonietracMoridetesiiltsBao§tly from Tjreatiiing.air, drinking
"*• > ^ -, 4 * *• *. ** tf f *•*•'*/- n . ' -, .. -. -- -^ - . * ..«*.• ~f f * *s
Envkonmental Protection Afehcy.
What is carbon tetrachloride?
(Pronounced kar'bsn tet'rs klor/ld')
Carbon tetrachloride is a manufactured compound that
does not occur naturally. It's a clear liquid with a sweet
smell that can be detected at low levels. It's also called
carbon chloride, methane tetrachloride, perchloromethane,
tetrachloroethane, or benziform. Trade names include
Benzinoform, Freon 10, Halon 104, Tetraform, or Tetrasol.
Carbon tetrachloride is most often found as a colorless
gas. It's not flammable and doesn't dissolve in water very
easily. It was used in the production of refrigeration fluid
and propellants for aerosol cans, as a pesticide, as a cleaning
fluid and decreasing agent, in fire extinguishers, and in spot
removers. Because of its harmful effects, these uses are now
banned and it is only used in some industrial applications.
What happens to carbon tetrachloride when
it enters the environment?
Q It moves very quickly into the air upon release, so most
of it is in the air.
Q It evaporates very quickly from soil and surface water.
Q Only a small amount sticks to soil particles; the rest
evaporates or moves into the groundwater.
Q It is very stable in air (lifetime of 30-100 years).
Q It can be brdken down or transformed in soil and water
within several days.
Q When it does break down, it forms chemicals that can
destroy ozone in the upper atmosphere.
Q It doesn't build up in animals. We do not know if it
builds up in plants.
How might I be exposed to carbon tetrachloride?
Q Breathing contaminated air near manufacturing plants or
waste sites
Q Breathing workplace air when it is used
Q Drinking contaminated water near manufacturing plants
and waste sites
Q Breathing contaminated air and skin contact with water
while showering or cooking with contaminated water
Q Swimming or bathing in contaminated water
Q Contact with or eating contaminated soil at waste sites.
How can carbon tetrachloride affect my
health?
High exposure to carbon tetrachloride can cause liver,
kidney, and central nervous system damage. These effects
result from either eating, drinking, or breathing it, and
possibly from exposure to the skin. The liver is especially
sensitive to carbon tetrachloride because it swells and cells
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and DiseaselRegistry
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Page 2
CARBON TETRACHLORIDE
AT SDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.dov:8080/atsdrhbme.html
are damaged or destroyed. Kidneys are also damaged,
causing a buildup of wastes in the blood. If exposure is low
and then stops, the liver and kidneys can repair the damaged
cells and function normally again.
If exposure is very high, the nervous system, including
the brain, is affected. People may feel intoxicated and
experience headaches, dizziness, sleepiness, and nausea and
vomiting. These effects may subside if exposure is stopped,
but in severe cases, coma and even death can occur.
There have been no studies in people on carbon
tetrachloride's effects on reproduction or development, but
studies in rats showed no adverse effects.
How likely is carbon tetrachloride to cause
cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services has
determined that carbon tetrachloride may reasonably be
anticipated to be a carcinogen.
Animals that ingested carbon tetrachloride over a long
time developed liver cancer. We do not know if breathing
carbon tetrachloride causes cancer in animals. We also do not
know if breathing or ingesting it will cause cancer in people.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to carbon tetrachloride?
Several sensitive and specific tests are available to
measure the amount of carbon tetrachloride in your breath,
blood, urine, and body tissues. The tests can't tell you how
much carbon tetrachloride you were exposed to or whether
there will be any effects on your health. The tests must be
done soon after exposure because it leaves your body quickly
These tests aren't routinely performed in doctors' offices, but
your doctor can tell you where to obtain such a test.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set
a limit of 0.005 parts of carbon tetrachloride per million
parts of drinking water (0.005 ppm). The EPA recommends
that drinking water exposures should not exceed 0.3 ppm
for adults and 0.07 ppm for children for long periods of
time (7 years).
The EPA has also set limits on how much carbon tetra-
chloride can be released from an industrial plant into waste-
water and is preparing to set limits on how much can be
released into outside air.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) set a maximum concentration limit in workplace
air of 10 ppm for an 8-hour workday over a 40-hour work-
week.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance that can cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service
Evaporate: To change into a vapor or a gas
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for carbon tetrachlo-
ride. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Case studies in environmental medicine.
Carbon tetrachloride toxicity. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600
Clifton Road NE Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315ATSDR Internet home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recytled Paper
T
-------
-ATSDR
CHLORDANE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about chlordane. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
VI$1AR¥: 1|xpoSure to ;chl,br|aiiie -Q^cttrs mostly from eating^contemmated foods,
as/root cfops/m0its,?fisHf antf shel
*>een found in afleasljlTiof 1,416 ^t%ial Priorities |ilst sitesidentffied by; the
/En^ronmentel Protecttion Age1acy^f? ^J *'/ N> ~ " ^/'^i«vX>v'^ ! y
What is chlordane?
(Pronounced kldr'dan')
Chlordane is a manufactured chemical that was used as a
pesticide in the United States from 1948 to 1988. Technical
chlordane is not a single chemical, but is actually a mixture
of pure chlordane mixed with many related chemicals. It
doesn't occur naturally in the environment. It is a thick liquid
whose color ranges from colorless to amber. Chlordane has a
mild, irritating smell.
Some of its trade names are Octachlor and Velsicol 1068.
Until 1983, chlordane was used as a pesticide on crops like
corn and citrus and on home lawns and gardens.
Because of concern about damage to the environment
and harm to human health, the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) banned all uses of chlordane in 1983 except to
control termites. In 1988, EPA banned all uses.
What happens to chlordane when it enters
the environment?
Q Chlordane entered the environment when it was used as a
pesticide on crops, on lawns and gardens, and to control
termites.
Q Chlordane sticks strongly to soil particles at the surface
and is not likely to enter groundwater.
Q It can stay in the soil for over 20 years.
Q Most chlordane leaves soil by evaporation to the air.
Q It breaks down very slowly.
Q Ghlordane doesn't dissolve easily in water.
Q It builds up in the tissues of fish, birds, and mammals.
How might I ibe exposed to chlordane?
Q By eating cr0ps grown in soil that contains chlordane
D By eating fish or shellfish caught in water that is
contaminated by chlordane
Q By breathing air or touching soil near homes treated for
termites with chlordane
Q By breathing air or by touching soil near waste sites or
landfills.
How cam chlordane affect my health?
Chlordane affects the nervous system, the digestive
system, and the liver in people and animals. Headaches,
irritability, confusion, weakness, vision problems, vomiting,
stomach cramps,^ diarrhea, and jaundice have occurred in
people who breathed air containing high concentrations of
chlordane or accidentally swallowed small amounts of
chlordane. Large amounts of chlordane taken by mouth can
cause convulsions and death in people.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SEjRVlCES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
CHLORDANE
AT SDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc JovrSOSO/atsdrhbme.html
A man who had long-term skin contact with soil contain-
ing high levels of chlordane had convulsions. Japanese
workers who used chlordane over a long period of time had
minor changes in liver function.
Animals given high levels of chlordane by mouth for
short periods died or had convulsions. Long-term exposure
caused harmful effects in the liver of test animals.
We do not know whether chlordane affects the ability of
people to have children or whether it causes birth defects.
Animals exposed before birth or while nursing developed
behavioral effects later.
How likely is chlordane to cause cancer?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has
determined that chlordane is not classifiable as to its carcino-
genicity to humans. Studies of workers who made or used
chlordane do not show that exposure to chlordane is related
to cancer, but the information is not sufficient to know for
sure. Mice fed low levels of chlordane in food developed
liver cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to chlordane?
Laboratory tests can measure chlordane and its break-
down products in blood, fat, urine, feces, and breast milk.
The amount of breakdown products measured in body fat or
breast milk does not tell how much or how long ago you
were exposed to chlordane or if harmful effects will occur.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
In 1988, the EPA banned all uses of chlordane. The EPA
recommends that a child should not drink water with more than
60 parts of chlordane per billion parts of drinking water (60 ppb)
for longer than 1 day. EPA has set a limit in drinking water of
2 ppb.
EPA requires spills or releases of chlordane into the
environment of 1 pound or more to be reported to EPA.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) limits the
amount of chlordane and its breakdown products in most
fruits and vegetables to less than 300 ppb and in animal fat
and fish to less than 100 ppb.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA), the National Institute for Occupational Health
and Safety (NIOSH), and the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) set a maxi-
mum level of 0.5 milligrams of chlordane per cubic meter
(mg/m3) in workplace air for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour
workweek. These agencies have advised that eye and skin
contact should be avoided because this may be a significant
route of exposure.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Pesticide: A substance that kills pests
PPB: Parts per billion
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for chlordane (up-
date). Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology 1600
Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315ATSDR Internet home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper;
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TSDR
CHLORODIBENZOFURANS
(CDFS)
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about chlorodibenzofurans (CDFs). For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about hazardous
substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance may harm you. The
effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, per-
sonal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to cHlorodiblnzoiiirans (CBFs) occurs mainly by eating
certain contaminated foods. In people/exposure to CDFs is most likely tq cause skin
and eye irritation, and increased piliierabilijy to respiratory infection and nervous
system effects. This chemical has been found in at least 51 of 1,416 National Priori-
ties Mst sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency.^^: _^_
What are chlorodibenzofurans (CDFs)?
(Pronounced klor'o-di-ben-zo-fyoor'onz)
Chlorinated dibenzofurans, or CDFs, are a family of
chemicals that contain one to eight chlorine atoms attached
to the carbon atoms of the parent chemical, dibenzofuran.
There are 135 different types of CDFs with varying harmful
health and environmental effects. The compounds that
contain chlorine atoms at the 2,3,7,8-positions of the
dibenzofuran molecule are known to be especially harmful.
Not all of the different types have been found in large
enough quantities to study the physical properties. How-
ever, of those that have been studied, they do not dissolve in
water easily and appear to be in the form of colorless solids.
There is no known use for these chemicals. Other than
for research purposes, they are not deliberately produced by
industry. Most CDFs are produced in small amounts as
undesirable by-products of certain processes, such as
manufacturing other chemicals or bleaching at paper and
pulp mills. CDFs can also be released from incinerators.
What happens to CDFs when they enter the
environment?
D CDFs exist in the air as solid particles and sometim.es
vapors.
O They can enter the environment from car exhausts or
from burning coal, wood, or oil for home heating, and
the production of electricity.
D Vaporized CDFs are broken down by other chemicals in
the atmosphere.
O They can be removed from the air in snow and rain.
O They attach to soil and sediment in lakes and rivers.
O They are riot likely to move into groundwater from soil.
O They accuriiulate in fish to tens of thousands times
higher levels than in the water or sediment.
O They also build up in other animals, birds, and people
that are exposed to CDFs in their food.
How might I be exposed to CDFs?
O Eating contaminated foods, such as meat, fish, and milk
(90% of daily exposure, which is only a few picograms
[pg], results from eating contaminated food)
O Breathing air or drinking water that is contaminated, or
coming in contact with contaminated soil
O Using products such as milk cartons, coffee filters, and
tampons could result in very low exposures
O Breathing contaminated workplace air.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and disease Registry
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CHLORODIBENZOFURANS (CDFs)
ATSDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gdv:8080/atfedrhomc.html
How can CDFs affect my health?
Very little is known about the health effects in people or
animals from breathing or touching CDFs. A study in mice
showed that skin exposure to low levels over several weeks
produced effects similar to those from ingesting CDFs.
Most of the information on the adverse health effects
comes from studies in people who were accidentally
exposed to food contaminated with CDFs. The amounts that
these people were exposed to were much higher than are
likely from environmental exposures or from a normal diet.
CDFs caused skin and eye irritations, including severe
acne, darkened skin color, and swollen eyelids with dis-
charge from the eyes. CDF poisoning also caused vomiting
and diarrhea, anemia, more frequent lung infections,
numbness, effects on the nervous system, and mild changes
in the liver. Children born to exposed mothers had skin
irritation and more difficulty learning.
Many of the same effects that occurred in people also
occurred in laboratory animals that ate CDFs. Animals also
had severe weight loss, and their stomachs, livers, kidneys,
and immune systems were seriously injured. Some animals
had birth defects and testicular damage, and in severe cases,
some animals died. These effects in animals were seen when
they were fed large amounts of CDFs over a short time, or
small amounts over several weeks or months.
How likely are CDFs to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not classified
CDFs for carcinogenicity.
It is not definitely known if CDFs cause cancer in
people. There are no cancer studies in animals that ate or
breathed CDFs. One study found that when CDFs were
applied to the skin of animals, they did not cause cancer, but
when they were applied with another compound called
MNNG, which is known to initiate tumors, cancer did
develop.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to CDFs?
There are tests available to measure CDFs in your blood,
body fat, and breast milk. The tests can tell you if you have
been exposed, but they can't tell you the exact amount of
CDFs or for how long you were exposed. The tests also
cannot predict whether you will experience harmful health
effects. Nearly everyone in the United States and other
industrialized countries has been exposed to low levels of
CDFs because they are in the environment.
Has the federal government made recommen-
dations to protect human health?
There are no federal guidelines or recommendations for
protecting human health or the environment from exposure
to CDFs.
Glossary
Anemia: A decreased ability of the blood to transport
oxygen.
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer.
Picogram (pg): One trilliionth of a gram.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for
chlorodibenzofurans. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where Can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their
specialists can recognize, evaluate and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community
or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact- Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton RoadNE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-
6000, FAX: 404-639-6315, ATSDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Reciycled Paper
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JSDR
CHLOROFORM
CAS# 67-66-3
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Tox*AQs|
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about chloroform. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's unportant you understand this information
because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the
dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
n<|HOGpTS: Ensure to elK *
nkilgortouching^pabstancefp%alferomtainirigit; Breathing,
"
chloroform or ,
•
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CHLOROFORM
CAS# 67-66-3
loxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.g
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JSDR
CHROMIUM
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about chromium. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration,
how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
What is chromium?
(Pronounced kro' me - um)
Chromium is a naturally occurring element found in
rocks, soil, plants, animals, and in volcanic dust and gases.
Chromium has three main forms—chromium(0),
chromium(ffl), and chromium(VI). Chromium(in)
compounds are stable and occur naturally, in the
environment. Chromium(0) does not occur naturally and
chromium (VI) occurs only rarely. Chromium compounds
have no taste or odor.
Chromium(IH) is an essential nutrient in our diet, but
we need only a very small amount. Other forms of
chromium are not needed by our bodies.
Chromium is used for making steel and other alloys,
bricks hi furnaces, and dyes and pigments, and for chrome
plating, leather tanning, and wood preserving.
What happens to chromium when it enters the
environment?
Q Manufacturing, disposal of products or chemicals
containing chromium, or burning of fossil fuels release
chromium to the air, soil, and water.
Q Chromium particles settle from air in less than 10 days.
Q Chromium sticks strongly to soil particles.
Q Most chromium in water sticks to dirt particles that fall to
the bottom; only a small amount dissolves.
Q Small amounts move from soil to groundwater.
Q Fish don't take up or store chromium hi their bodies.
How might I be exposed to chromium?
Q Breathing contaminated workplace air (stainless steel
welding, chromate or chrome pigment production,
chrome1 plating, leather tanning)
Q Handling or breathing sawdust from chromium treated
wood •
Q Breathing contaminated air, or ingesting water, or food
from soil near waste sites or industries that use chromium
Q Very small amounts of chromium(in) are in everyday
foods.
How can chromium affect my health?
All forms of chromium can be toxic at high levels, but
chromium(VI) is more toxic than cruromiumCDI).
Breathing very high levels of chromium(VI) in air can
damage and irritate your nose, lungs, stomach, and
intestines.! People who are allergic to chromium may also
have asthma attacks after breathing high levels of either
chromium(VI) or (HI).
Long! term exposures to high or moderate levels of
chromium(VT) cause damage to the nose (bleeding, itching,
sores) and lungs, and can increase your risk of non-cancer
lung diseases.
U S DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN ISERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency forr toxic Substances andjDisease Registry
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Page 2
CHROMIUM
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
Ingesting very large amounts of chromium can cause
stomach upsets and ulcers, convulsions, kidney and liver
damage, and even death.
We don't know if chromium harms the fetus or our
ability to reproduce. Mice that ingested large amounts of
chromium had reproductive problems and offspring with
birth defects.
Skin contact with liquids or solids containing
chromium(VI) may lead to skin ulcers. Some people have
allergic reactions including severe redness and swelling.
How likely is chromium to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services has
determined that certain chromium(VI) compounds are
known carcinogens. This is based on increased lung cancer
in some workers who were exposed to chromium. Animal
studies also indicate chromium(VT) is a carcinogen. We do
not have enough data to determine if chromium(O) or
chromium(m) are carcinogens.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to chromium?
Chromium can be measured in the hair, urine, serum,
red blood cells, and whole blood.
Tests for chromium exposure are most useful for people
exposed to high levels. These tests cannot determine the
exact levels of chromium you were exposed to or predict
how the levels in your tissues will affect your health.
Skin patch tests may indicate if you are allergic to
chromium.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets a
maximum level for chromiumGQI) and chromium(VI) in
drinking water of 100 micrograms of chromium per liter of
water (100 ugVL).
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) sets limits for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour
workweek of 500 micrograms chromium per cubic meter
(|Jg/m3) for water-soluble chromic [chromium(III)] or
•chromous [chromium(n)] salts and 1,000 (ig/m3 for metallic
chromium [chromium(O)], and insoluble salts. Chromic acid
and chromium(VI) compounds in the workplace air should
not be higher than 100 ug/m3 for any period of time.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) recommends an exposure limit of 500
ug An3 for chromium(O), chromium(II), and chromium(m)
for a 10-hour workday, 40-hour workweek. NIOSH
considers all chromium(VI) compounds to be potential
occupational carcinogens, and recommends an exposure
limit of 1 ug/m3 for a 10-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The National Research Council (NRC) recommends a
dietary intake of chromium(IH) of 50-200 ug/day. In the
United States, severe chromium deficiency is rare, but
marginal deficiency may be more common. Chromium(ni)
is believed to help insulin maintain normal glucose levels.
Glossary
Carcinogen: Substance that can cause cancer.
Ingestion: Taking food or drink into your body.
Microgram (jig): One millionth of a gram.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Toxicological profile for chromium.
Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Public Health Service.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Case studies in environmental medicine:
Chromium toxicity. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29 Adanta GA 30333
Phone:404-639-6000.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Papjer
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-ATSDR
COBALT
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Ktegistry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about cobalt. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in ^ series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
What is cobalt?
(Pronounced kO/bSlt')
Cobalt is a compound that occurs in nature. It occurs in
many different chemical forms. Pure cobalt is a steel-gray,
shiny, hard metal. Cobalt is not currently mined in the
United States.
All cobalt used in industry is imported or obtained by
recycling scrap metal that contains cobalt. It is used in
industry to make alloys (mixtures of metals), colored pig-
ments, and as a drier for paint and porcelain enamel used on
steel bathroom fixtures, large appliances, and kitchen wares.
Small amounts of cobalt naturally occur in food. In
addition, vitamin B12 is a cobalt-containing compound that is
essential for good health.
Some important natural sources of cobalt in the environ-
ment are soil, dust, and seawater. Cobalt is also released to
the environment from burning coal and oil, and from exhaust
from cars and trucks.
What happens to cobalt when it enters tlae
environment?
Q Cobalt enters the environment from natural sources and
from the burning of coal and oil.
Q Cobalt stays in the air for a few days.
Q Pure cobalt idoes not dissolve in water, but some of its
compoundSjdo.
Q Cobalt can stay for years in water and soil.
Q It can move from the soil to underground water.
Q Cobalt is taken up by plants from the soil.
How might I be exposed to cobalt?
Q Everyone is exposed to cobalt at low levels in air, water,
and food.
Q People who live near hazardous waste sites containing
cobalt maybe exposed to higher levels of this chemical.
Q Food is another source of exposure to cobalt.
Q Workers may be exposed to cobalt in industries that
process it or make products containing cobalt.
How can cobalt affect my health?
Cobalt has both beneficial and harmful effects on human
health. Cobalt is beneficial because it is part of "Vitamin BI2.
Cobalt has also been used as a treatment for anemia, because
it causes red bipod cells to be produced.
Exposure to high levels of cobalt can harm your health.
Effects on the lungs, including asthma, pneumonia, and
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SJERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for T
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COBALT
Agency for Tbxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
wheezing, have been found in workers who breathed high
levels of cobalt in the air.
In the 1960s, some breweries added cobalt to beer to
stabilize the foam. Some people who drank large quantities
of the beer experienced nausea, vomiting, and serious effects
on the heart. However, effects on the heart were not seen in
people with anemia or pregnant women treated with cobalt.
Animal studies have found problems with the develop-
ment of the fetus in animals exposed to high concentrations
of cobalt during pregnancy. However, cobalt is also essential
for the growth and development of certain animals.
How likely is cobalt to cause cancer?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has
determined that cobalt is a possible carcinogen to humans.
Studies in animals have shown that cobalt causes cancer
when placed directly into the muscle or under the skin. Cobalt
did not cause cancer in animals that were exposed to it in the
air, in food, or in drinking water. Studies on people are
inconclusive regarding cobalt and cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to cobalt?
Tests are available to measure cobalt levels in the urine
and blood. These tests are only accurate for up to a few days
after exposure because cobalt leaves the body fairly quickly.
These tests are not usually performed in most doctors'
offices because special equipment is needed to conduct them.
These tests cannot determine if adverse health effects will
occur from exposure to cobalt.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires
that discharges or accidental spills into the environment of
1,000 pounds or more of cobalt be reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an exposure limit of 0.1 milligrams per
cubic meter (0.1 mg/m3) for cobalt in workplace air for an
8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The American Conference of Governmental and
Industrial Hygienists (A(CGffl) has recommended an
occupational exposure limit of 0.02 mg/m3 for cobalt for an
8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) has recommended an occupational
exposure limit of 0.05 mg/m3 for cobalt for a 10-hour work-
day, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Alloy: A mixture of metals
Anemia: A decreased ability of the blood to transport
oxygen
Carcinogen: A substance that can cause cancer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for cobalt. Atlanta,
GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
y°U Wh*re ° fmd occuPational and environmental health clinics.
l°
have
Their specialists can recognize, evaluate
Can als° C°ntaCt y°Ur C°mmunity or state hea' "or>
y more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
of Toxicology' 160° Clifton Road ^ Maiistop E-29' Atianta' GA
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
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-ATSDR
COPPER
CAS # 7440-50-8
A»ency for Toxic Substances and Disease RegistryToxFAQsi
July 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about copper. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because
this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose,
the duration, how you are exposed, personall traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: Copper is an element that is found naturally in the environment.
Small amounts of copper are necessary for good health; however, very large
amounts can cause dizziness, headaches, diarrhea, arid liver and kidney damage.
Copper has been found in at least 210 of the 1,430 National Priorities List sites
identified by the Environmental: Protection Agency (EPA).
What is copper?
(Pronounced kop/sr)
Copper is a reddish metal that occurs naturally in the envi-
ronment. It also occurs naturally in plants and animals. Copper
is an essential element for all living things including people.
Copper is extensively mined in the United States and is
used to make wire, sheet metal, pipes, and pennies. It is also
used in farming to treat some plant diseases; in water treat-
ment; and to preserve wood, leather, and fabrics.
What happens to copper when it enters the
environment?
Q Copper is emitted to the air through natural processes
such as windblown dust and volcanic eruptions.
Q Human activities such as copper smelting and ore process-
ing also result in copper being released to the air.
Q Copper may enter the air when it is applied as a fungicide
to plants, wood, fabric, and leather.
D Copper is released to water as a result of natural weather-
ing of soil.
Q It may also be released to water from discharges from in-
dustries and sewage treatment plants.
a Copper may also be added to lakes and ponds to control
algae. i
How might I be exposed to copper?
Q By breathing air and eating food containing copper
a By drinking water containing copper, particularly if you
have copper pipes
a By swimming in lakes or ponds where copper was added
to the water
a By handling coins and touching other metals containing
copper
Q By touching soil near industries where copper is mined or
disposed of
How can copper affect my health?
Copper is necessary for good health. However, very large
doses can be harmful. Long-term exposure to copper hi the air
can irritate your nose, mouth, and eyes, and cause dizziness,
headaches, and diarrhea.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEA LTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
COPPER
CAS # 7440-50-8
Eating or drinking very high amounts of copper can cause
liver and kidney damage and effects on the blood. Drinking
water with higher than normal levels of copper can cause vom-
iting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea.
Skin contact with copper can result in an allergic reaction
in some people. This reaction is usually skin irritation or a
skin rash.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people or to treat those who have
been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of research ani-
mals and scientists must follow strict guidelines. Animal stud-
ies have shown effects on the stomach and abnormalities in
development when animals were fed a diet high in copper.
How likely is copper to cause cancer?
Copper has not been shown to cause cancer in people or
animals. The International Agency for Research on Cancer
(IARC) has determined that copper is not classifiable as to
human carcinogenicity.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been
exposed to copper?
Copper can be measured in the urine and blood. High
levels of copper in these fluids can show that you have been
exposed to high levels of copper. Samples can be collected in
a doctor's office and sent to a laboratory that has special
equipment to measure copper levels.
These tests aren't available at most doctors' offices, but
can be done at special laboratories that have the right equip-
ment. However, these tests cannot tell you when you were
exposed or to how much, or whether health effects will occur.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a treatment technique for copper in drink-
ing water that includes an action level of 1.3 milligrams of
copper per liter of water (1.3 mg/L).
The EPA has also set a secondary maximum contaminant
level (SMCL) of 1 mg/L of copper in drinking water. An
SMCL is a nonenforceable drinking water standard based on
taste, odor, or other aesthetic considerations.
The EPA requires that spills or accidental releases into the
environment of 5,000 pounds or more of copper be reported to
the EPA.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set occupational exposure limits of 0.1 milligram
of copper per cubic meter of air (0.1 mg/m3) as fumes and
1 mg/m3 of copper as dust and mists for an 8-hour workday, 40-
hour workweek.
Glossary
Aesthetic: Relating to the senses (smell, taste, etc.)
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Fungicide: A substance that kills fungi, a group of plants that
include molds, mildews, mushrooms, and yeast
Long-term: 365 days or longer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. 1990.
Toxicological profile for copper. Atlanta, GA; U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Values in the federal recommendations section updated as
of June 1999.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
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-ATSDR
CRESOLS
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about cresols. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration,
how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
Exposure to cfesolfoccurs mainlf from breatte|\aircontaining
car exliaust, breatl^ng ai^Jrom h|mes%eateS ^th coal or wpod, arid smoking ;
cigarettes. Cresols,>-wJ16**>reatfied at;yery high leVels,;ma^raiise irritalioj^of the
nose and throat These chemicals^laveTbeen^ found in%Heas|314x of 1,416 v >
National PrioritieVliist, sites identified by the ^nf ir^nnfenM Profection Agency."
•t
What are cresols?
(Pronounced krg'-solz')
Cresols are a widely occurring natural and manufactured
group of chemicals. In their pure form, they are colorless
solids and may be liquids if they are mixtures. Cresols smell
like medicine.
There are three forms of cresols that are only slightly
different in their chemical structure: ortho-cresol (o-cresol),
meta-cresol (m-cresol), and para-cresol (p-cresol). These
forms occur separately or as a mixture. They are used to
dissolve other chemicals, as disinfectants and deodorizers, and
to make certain chemicals that kill insect pests.
Cresols are found in many foods and in wood and tobacco
smoke, crude oil, coal tar, and in brown mixtures such as
creosote and cresylic acids, which are wood preservatives.
Small organisms in soil and water produce cresols when they
break down materials in the environment.
What happens to cresols when they enter the
environment?
Q Cresols enter the environment from natural sources, car
exhaust, combustion, manufacturing use, and waste sites.
Q Cresols appear everywhere in our environment, but
usually at low levels, because they quickly break down.
Q In air, cresols quickly break down into other chemicals.
O Cresols do not evaporate quickly from water, but they
can be removed by bacteria.
Q Cresols may last longer in deep groundwater or water
that does not have bacteria.
Q In soil, half |the total amount of cresols will break down
in about a week.
Q Cresols do not appear to accumulate in fish or meat.
How might I be exposed to cresols?
Q Breathing contaminated air from car exhaust, coal or
wood combustion, oil refineries, or cigarette smoke
Q Breathing workplace air or skin contact in the workplace
Q Eating foods, including ketchup, tomatoes, cheese,
butter, and bacon, but generally the levels are not
harmful
Q Drinking contaminated water near manufacturing sites,
waste sites, or landfills.
How can cresols affect my health?
Most exposures to cresols are at very low levels that are
not harmful. When cresols are breathed, ingested, or applied
to the skin at very high levels, they can be very harmful.
Effects observed in people include irritation and burning of
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Djisease Registry
-------
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
skin, eyes, mouth, and throat; abdominal pain and vomiting;
heart damage; anemia; liver and kidney damage; facial
paralysis; coma; and death.
Breathing high levels of cresols for a short time results
in irritation of the nose and throat. Aside from these effects,
very little is known about the effects of breathing cresols, for
example, at lower levels over longer times.
Ingesting high levels results in kidney problems, mouth
and throat bums, abdominal pain, vomiting, and effects on the
blood and nervous system.
Skin contact with high levels of cresols can burn the skin
and damage the kidneys, liver, blood, brain, and lungs.
Short-term and long-term studies with animals have
shown similar effects from exposure to cresols. No human or
animal studies have shown harmful effects from cresols on
the ability to have children.
It is not known what the effects are from long-term
ingestion or skin contact with low levels of cresols.
How likely are cresols to cause cancer?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
determined that cresols are possible human carcinogens.
No studies are available in people on the carcinogenic
effects of cresols. Animal studies show that cresols may
increase the ability of some carcinogenic chemicals to cause
tumors.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to cresols?
Tests are available that measure the amount of cresols in
the urine. The tests must be performed within one day of
exposure since cresols break down quickly in the body.
Since cresols occur naturally in the body, results of tests
for cresol exposure would have to be compared to results of
tests taken from the same person both before and several
days after the exposure. These tests are usually not available
in your doctor's office.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA requires that discharges or accidental spills of
1,000 pounds or more of cresols be reported.
The Occupational Sirfety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an exposure limit of 22 milligrams per
cubic meter (22 mg/m3) for cresols in workplace air for an
8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek. OSHA advises
avoiding eye and skin contact because this may be a route of
significant exposure.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance that can cause cancer
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Short-term: Lasting 14 days or less
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for cresols: o-cresol,
p-cresol, & m-cresol. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of
Health and Human Service?, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
f find occuPational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate
eX°SUru t0 haZard°US substances- You can also contact your community or state tealmor'
have any more Questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
of Toxicology> 160°Clifton Road m Mailstop E-29'Atl—GA
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
..ATSDR
•gg^L\l %
CYANIDE
CAS # 74-90-8, 143,33-9, 151-50-8, 592-01-8,
544-92-3, 506f61-6, 460-19-5, 506-77-4
Agency for Toxic Substances ahd Disease Registry ToxFAQs
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions :(FAQs) about cyanide. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544.' This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this
information because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance
depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other
chemicals are present.
JHGHLIGHTS: Cyanide is a^very poisonous^ cneinicat^ Exposure £o high levels
of cyanide farms the brain and heart, and ma^ cause^ma and jJeath.^ Exposure
tolower leyels majr^result^ in breathWg^difficuities^ hleart paifts; yon^iting^ Wood
changes, headaches, and |nlargen|ekt of jthrfryroid glaiil. /Cyanide^has been
found in^at least 415 of the.M3® National priori ilesXist sitesjidentified'by tne
i^L.
What is cyanide?
(Pronounced sl'3-nld')
Cyanide is usually found joined with other chemicals to
form compounds. Examples of simple cyanide compounds
are hydrogen cyanide, sodium cyanide and potassium cya-
nide. Cyanide can be produced by certain bacteria, fungi, and
algae, and it is found in a number of foods and plants. In the
body, cyanide combines with a chemical to form Vitamin B12.
Cyanide occurs naturally in cassava roots, which are potato-
like tubers of cassava plants grown in tropical countries.
Hydrogen cyanide is a colorless gas with a faint, bitter,
almond-like odor. Sodium cyanide and potassium cyanide are
both white solids with a bitter, almond-like odor in damp air.
Cyanide and hydrogen cyanide are used in electroplating, met-
allurgy, production of chemicals, photographic development,
making plastics, fumigating ships, and some mining processes.
What happens to cyanide when it enters the
environment?
Q Cyanide enters the environment from both natural pro-
cesses and human industrial activities.
Q In air, cyanide is mainly found as gaseous hydrogen cya-
nide; a small amount is present as fine dust particles.
n It takes about 1-3 years for half of the hydrogen cyanide
to disappear;from the air.
D Most cyanide in surface water will form hydrogen cya-
nide and evaporate.
Q Cyanide in water does not build up in the bodies of fish.
Q At high concentrations, cyanide becomes toxic to soil
microorganisms and can pass through soil into under-
ground water.
How might I be exposed to cyanide?
Q Breathing air, drinking water, touching soil, or eating
foods containing cyanide
O Smoking cigarettes and breathing smoke-filled air during
fires are major sources of cyanide exposure
Q Breathing air near a hazardous waste site containing
cyanide
D Eating foods containing cyanide compounds, such as
cassava roots, lima beans, and almonds
D Working in an industry where cyanide is used or pro-
duced, suchi as electroplating, metallurgy, metal cleaning,
and photography
How can cyanide affect my health?
In large amounts, cyanide is very harmful to people. Expo-
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
CYANIDE
CAS # 74-90-8, 143-33-9, 151-50-8, 592-01-8,
544-92-3, 506-61-6, 460-19-5, 506-77-4
sure to high levels of cyanide in the air for a short time harms
the brain and heart, and may cause coma and death.
Exposure to lower levels of cyanide for a long time may
result in breathing difficulties, heart pains, vomiting, blood
changes, headaches, and enlargement of the thyroid gland.
People who eat large amounts of cyanide may have symp-
toms including deep breathing and shortness of breath, con-
vulsions, and loss of consciousness, and may die. Use of cas-
sava roots as a primary food source in tropical Africa has led
to high blood cyanide levels.
People with high blood cyanide levels have also shown
harmful effects such as weakness of the fingers and toes, diffi-
culty walking, dimness of vision, deafness, and decreased
thyroid gland function, but chemicals other than cyanide may
have contributed to these effects. Skin contact with cyanide
can produce irritation and sores.
It is not known whether cyanide can directly cause birth
defects in people. Birth defects were seen in rats that ate diets
of cassava roots. Effects on the reproductive system were seen
in rats and mice that drank water containing sodium cyanide.
How likely is cyanide to cause cancer?
The EPA has determined that cyanide is not classifiable
as to its human carcinogenicity. There are no reports that cya-
nide can cause cancer in people or animals.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to cyanide?
There are medical tests to measure blood and urine levels
of cyanide; however, small amounts of cyanide are always
detectable in blood and urine. Tissue levels of cyanide can be
measured if cyanide poisoning is suspected, but cyanide is
rapidly cleared from the body, so the tests must be done soon
after the exposure. An almond-like odor in the breath may
alert a doctor that a person was exposed to cyanide.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level of cya-
nide in drinking water of 0.2 milligrams cyanide per liter of
water (0.2 mg/L). The EPA requires that spills or accidental
releases into the environment of 1 pound or more of hydrogen
cyanide, potassium cyanide, sodium cyanide, calcium cyanide
or copper cyanide be reported to the EPA.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) and (other recommendations) the American Con-
ference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
have set a permissible exposure limit of 5 milligrams of
cyanide per cubic meter of air (5 mg/m3) in the workplace
during an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
PPM: Parts per million
Source o£ Information
This ToxFAQs information is taken from the 1997 Toxi-
cological Profile for Cyanide (update) produced by the
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Public
Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Ser-
vices, Public Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Di^aseRegis^, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-800-
IJSS ' ^ 404-6U39-6359' ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/roxFAQhtml
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize evalu-
ate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state
health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
DDT, DDE, AND DDD
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about DDT, DDE, and DDD. For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is,important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration,
how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
texposurrto D^T^IDDE, Wd DDB happens mostly from eating
National Priorities List sites identified by the EnvirSnmentalErotection Agency.
What are DDT, DDE, and DDD?
(Pronounced DDT, DDE and DDD)
DDT (l,l,l-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane) was
a manufactured chemical widely used to control insects on
agricultural crops and insects that carry diseases like malaria
and typhus. It does not occur naturally in the environment.
DDT is a white, crystalline solid with no odor or taste.
Because of damage to wildlife and the potential harm to
human health, the use of DDT was banned in the United
States, except for public health emergencies. DDT is still
used in some other countries.
Two similar chemicals that sometimes contaminate DDT
products are DDE (l,l-dichloro-2,2-bis(chlorophenyl)
ethylene) and DDD (l,l-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)
ethane). DDD was also used to kill pests, but its use has also
been banned. One form of it has been used medically to treat
cancer of the adrenal gland. DDE has no commercial use.
What happens to DDT, DDE, and DDD
when they enter the environment?
Q DDT entered the environment when it was used as an
insecticide.
Q DDT in air lasts for only a short time. Half the DDT in
air is gone within 2 days.
Q It does not dissolve easily in water.
O DDT sticks strongly to soil particles and does not move
quickly to underground water.
Q DDT lasts a very long time in soil; half the DDT in soil
will break down in 2-15 years.
Q Some DDT will evaporate from soil and surface water
into the air and some is broken down by sunlight or by
microorganisms in soil or surface water.
Q DDT in soil usually breaks down to form DDE or DDD.
HI Levels of DDT build up in plants and in the fatty tissues
of fish, birds, and animals.
How might I be exposed to DDT, DDE, and
DDD?
Q Eating domestic foods, such as root and leafy vegetables,
fatty meat, fish, and poultry, but levels are very low
Q Eating imported foods from countries that still allow the
use of DDT to control pests
Q Breathing contaminated air or drinking contaminated
water; levels generally are low and of little concern
except near waste sites and landfills that may contain
higher levels of these chemicals
Q Infants fed on human breast milk from mothers who have
been exposed
CI Breathing or swallowing soil particles near waste sites or
landfills that contain these chemicals.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SEJRVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
DDT, DDE, AND DDD
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
How can DDT, DDE, and DDD affect my
health?
DDT affects the nervous system. People who acciden-
tally swallowed large amounts of DDT became excitable and
had tremors and seizures. These effects went away after the
exposure stopped. No effects were seen in people who took
small daily doses of DDT by capsule for 18 months.
People who worked with DDT for a long time had some
reversible changes in the levels of liver enzymes.
In animals, short-term exposure to large amounts of
DDT in food affected the nervous system. In animals, long-
term exposure to DDT affected the liver. Animal studies
suggest that short-term exposure to DDT in food may have a
harmful effect on reproduction.
How likely are DDT, DDE, and DDD to
cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that DDT may reasonably be
anticipated to be a human carcinogen. DHHS has not
classified DDE and DDD, but the Environmental Protec-
tion Agency (EPA) has determined that they are probable
human carcinogens.
Liver cancer has been seen in animals that were fed
DDT. Studies in DDT-exposed workers did not show
increases in cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to DDT, DDE, and DDD?
Laboratory tests can detect DDT, DDE, and DDD in fat,
blood, urine, semen, and breast milk. These tests may show
low, moderate, or excessive exposure to these compounds.
These tests cannot show the exact amount of DDT, DDE,
or DDD to which a person was exposed or tell if harmful
effects will occur. These tests are not routinely available at
doctors' offices.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
In 1972, the EPA banned all uses of DDT, except for
public health emergencies. EPA requires spills or releases
of DDT into the environment of 1 pound or more to be
reported to EPA.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set
limits on DDT levels in most foods.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) set an exposure limit of 1 milligram of DDT per
cubic meter (1 mg/m3) in workplace air for an 8-hour
workday, 40-hour workweek. The National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends an
exposure limit of 0.5 mg/m3 in workplace air over a 10-hour
workday, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance that can cause cancer
Evaporate: To change into a vapor or a gas
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Short-term: Lasting 14 days or less
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for 4,4'-DDT, 4,4'-
DDE, 4,4'-DDD (Update). Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or'
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta GA 30333
Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
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_ATSDR
1,4-DICHLOROBENZENE
CAS # 106-46-7
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs
June 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about 1,4-dichlorobenzene. For
more information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in a series
of summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this
information because this substance may harm you. The effects, of exposure to any hazardous substance
depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals
are present. :
HIGHLIGHTS: Exposure to 1,4-dichlorobenizene happens mostly from
breathing high levels in indoor air or workplace air* Extremely high exposures
can cause dizziness, headaches, and liver problems. 1,4-Diehlorobenzene has
been found in at least 281 of 1,467 National Priorities List sites identified by
the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
What is 1,4-dichlorobenzene?
(Pronounced dl' klor' o ben/ zen')
1,4-Dichlorobenzene is a chemical used to control moths,
molds, and mildew, and to deodorize restrooms and waste con-
tainers. It is also called para-DCB or p-DCB. Other names
include Paramoth, Para crystals, and Paracide reflecting its
widespread use to kill moths.
At room temperature, p-DCB is a white solid with a strong,
pungent odor. When exposed to air, it slowly changes from a
solid to a vapor. It is the vapor that acts as a deodorizer or
insect killer. Most people recognize the odor as the smell of
mothballs, and can smell p-DCB in the air at very low levels.
Most p-DCB in our environment comes from its use in moth
repellent products and in toilet deodorizer blocks.
What happens to 1,4-dichlorobenzene when it
enters the environment?
Q In air, it breaks down to harmless products in about a
month.
Q It does not dissolve easily in water.
Q It is not easily broken down by soil organisms.
Q It evaporates easily from water and soil, so most is found
in the air.
Q It is taken up and retained by plants and fish.
How might I be exposed to 1,4-dichlorobenzene?
Q Breathing indoor air in public restrooms and homes that
use p-DCB as a deodorizer
Q Breathing air around some mothballs (check the label)
Q Breathing workplace air where p-DCB is manufactured
Q Drinking contaminated water around hazardous waste
sites
Q Eating foods such as pork, chicken, and eggs that are
contaminated with p-DCB from its use as an odor control
product in animal stalls
Q Eating fish from contaminated waters
How cam 1,4-dichlorobenzene affect my health?
There is no evidence that moderate use of common
household products that contain p-DCB will result in harmful
effects to your health. Harmful effects, however, may occur
from high exposures. Very high usage of p-DCB products in the
home can result in dizziness, headaches, and liver problems.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for To* ic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
1,4-DICHLOROBENZENE
CAS # 106-46-7
loxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://www.atsdr.cdb.gov/toxfkq.html
Some of the patients who developed these symptoms had been
using the products for months or even years after they first began
to feel ill.
Workers breathing high levels of p-DCB (1,000 times more
than levels in deodorized rooms) have reported painful irrita-
tion of the nose and eyes. There are cases of people who have
eaten p-DCB products regularly for months to years because of
its sweet taste. These people had skin blotches and lower num-
bers of red blood cells.
How likely is 1,4-dichlorobenzene to cause
cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
has determined that p-DCB may reasonably be anticipated to
be a carcinogen. There is no direct evidence that p-DCB can
cause cancer in humans. However, animals given very high
levels in water developed liver and kidney tumors.
How can 1,4-dichlorobenzene affect children?
Children are exposed to p-DCB in many of the same ways
that adults are. Children may be at higher risk, due to acciden-
tal exposures such as swallowing p-DCB used in the home in
mothballs or toilet bowl deoderant blocks. There is very little
information on how children react to p-DCB exposure, but
children would probably show the same effects as adults.
No studies in people or animals show that p-DCB crosses
the placenta or can be found in fetal tissues. Based on other
similar chemicals, it is possible that this could occur. There is
no credible evidence that p-DCB causes birth defects. One
study found dichlorobenzenes in breast milk, but p-DCB has
not been specifically measured.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure to
1,4-dichlorobenzene?
You should not let children play with or drink toilet bowl
water because it may contain p-DCB. Do not let children rub
mothballs or cleaners containing p-DCB on their skin. Pesti-
cides, bathroom deoderizers, and mothballs containg p-DCB
should be stored out of reach of young children. Always store
household chemicals in their original containers. Never store
them in containers children would find attractive to eat or
drink from, such as old soda bottles.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been
exposed to 1,4-dichlorobenzene?
Tests are available to measure your exposure to p-DCB.
The most common test measures a breakdown product of
p-DCB called 2,5-dichlorophenol in urine and blood. If there
is 2,5-dichlorophenol in the urine, it indicates that the person
was exposed to p-DCB within the previous day or two. The test
that measures p-DCB in your blood is less common.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level of 75 mi-
crograms of p-DCB per liter of drinking water (75 ug/L).
p-DCB is also an EPA-registered pesticide. Manufacturers
must provide certain information to EPA for it to be used as a
pesticide.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a maximum level of 75 parts of p-DCB per
million parts air in the workplace (75 ppm) for an 8-hour day,
40-hour workweek.
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1998. Toxicological Profile for 1,4-Dichloroben-
zene. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone:1-888-422-8737
FAX: 404-639-6359. ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html ATSDR can tell you '
where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses
resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or environmental
quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
1,1-DICHLOROETHANE
CAS # 75-34-3
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs |
July 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about 1,1-dichloroethane. For
more information, call the ATSDR Information Center at l-888-422T8737. This fact sheet is one in a series
of summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. T;his information is important because
this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: 1,1-DiehloroethaDe is used to make other chemicals and to dissolve
*" ^ ^ *
and remove grease. Breathing very high levels can affect your heart and animal
studies have seen kidney disease from long-term exposure to high levels in air.
1,1-Dichloroethane has been found in at least 248 of the 1,430 National Priorities
List sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
What is 1,1-dichloroethane?
(Pronounced 1,1 -di' klor' 0 eth' an')
1,1-Dichloroethane is a colorless, oily liquid with a sweet
odor. It evaporates easily at room temperature and bums easily.
It does not occur naturally in the environment.
In the past, 1,1-dichloroethane was used as a surgical
anesthetic, but it is no longer used this way. Today fit is used
primarily to make other chemicals, to dissolve substances
such as paint, varnish, and finish removers, and to remove
grease.
What happens to 1,1-dichloroethane when it
enters the environment?
Q 1,1 -Dichloroethane is released from industrial processes
primarily to the air.
Q 1,1 -Dichloroethane evaporates from water rapidly into
the air.
Q It can also be found in the air as a breakdown product of
another chemical, 1,1,1-trichloroethane.
Q 1,1-Dichloroethane does not dissolve easily in water.
Q Small amounts of 1,1-dichloroethane released to soil can
evaporate into the air or move into groundwater.
Q It is not known how long it stays in soil.
Q 1,1-Dichloroethane is not expected to build up in the
body tissues of animals.
How might I;be exposed to 1,1-dichloroethane?
O Breathing air containing it from industrial releases or
hazardous vtaste sites
Q Drinking contaminated tap water
Q Touching soil containing it
Q Touching contaminated materials in the workplace
How can 1,1-rdichloroethane affect my health?
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people or to treat those who have
been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of research
animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SEJRVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Todc Substances and D sease Registry
-------
Page 2
1,1-DICHLQROETHANE
„„: ; CAS, # 75-34:3
Very limited information is available on the effects of
1,1-dichloroethane on people's health. The chemical was dis-
continued as a surgical anesthetic when effects on the heart,
such as irregular heart beats were reported.
Studies in animals have shown that 1,1-dichloroethane
can cause kidney disease after long-term exposure to high
levels in air. Delayed growth was seen in the offspring of ani-
mals who breathed high concentrations of the chemical during
pregnancy.
How likely is 1,1-dichloroethane to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS),
the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and
the EPA have not classified 1,1-dichloroethane for carcinoge-
nicity.
1,1-Dichloroethane caused cancer in one study in which
rats and mice were fed large doses of the chemical for their
lifetimes.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been
exposed to 1,1-dichloroethane?
Tests are available that measure 1,1-dichloroethane in
urine, blood, breath, and body tissues. These tests aren't avail-
able at most doctors' offices, but can be done at a special labo-
ratory that has special equipment.
The tests must be done soon after exposure occurs, be-
cause most of the 1,1-dichloroethane that is taken into the
body leaves within 2 days. In addition, these tests cannot
tell you when you were exposed, or whether health effects
will occur.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA requires that spills or accidental releases into the
environment of 1,000 pounds or more of 1,1-dichloroethane be
reported to the EPA.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an occupational exposure limit of 400 milli-
grams of 1,1-dichloroethane per cubic meter of air (400 mg/m3)
for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH) and the American Conference of Governmental Indus-
trial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommend the same exposure limit
in air.
NIOSH currently recommends that a level of 12,150 mg/
m3 be considered immediately dangerous to life and health.
This is the exposure level of 1,1-dichloroethane that is likely
to cause permanent health problems or death.
Glossary
Anesthetic: A substance used to cause numbness
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Evaporate: To change into a vapor or gas
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. 1990.
Toxicological Profile for 1,1-Dichloroethane. Atlanta, GA; U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Ser-
vice.
Values in the federal recommendations section updated as
of June 1999.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
^YS^ So « 16°° Clift°n R°ad NE' Mailst°P E'29' Atlanta' GA 30333- phone: 1-888-422-8737
FAX: 404-639-6359. ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html ATSDR can tell you where
to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting
from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality depart-
ment if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
_ATSDR
1,2-DICIJLOROETHANE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about 1,2-dichloroethane. For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
?uivim/v^Exposure to^ mainlyln the workplace. ^Breathing
high leyeis'bf\2-^cjilorpeth£ie daraagf s the central nervous systern^heart^veyddnels^
| and lungs^This ciermcal-haabeenlrounim^t ^^^ l;416^ational Priorities list
sitesldentified by^e/Bnvkdruneniai[ Pr6tectidn""Xgenc^v - , *;^, ' ; */
^ -.fi ' / ' * " * " ^' ^ % ^, f,f
-------
1,2-DICHLOROETHANE
Studies in animals have found similar nervous system
damage and kidney disease from breathing and ingesting the
chemical. Other effects in animals include a reduced ability
to fight infection. These effects have not been adequately
studied in people.
Animal studies suggest that 1,2-dichloroethane is not
likely to harm the ability to reproduce or cause an increase in
the number of birth defects.
Animal studies show that direct contact with
1,2-dichloroethane can cause damage to the skin and eyes.
How likely is 1,2-dichloroethane to cause
cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services has
determined that 1,2-dichloroethane may reasonably be
anticipated to be a carcinogen.
Human studies are inconclusive. Several studies have
not shown an increase in tumors in workers exposed to
1,2-dichloroethane. One study found an increase in colon
and rectal cancer in people who drank contaminated water,
but other chemicals were also present in the water.
There is good evidence from animal studies that ingest-
ing large amounts of 1,2-dichloroethane causes an increase in
* a variety of tumors. In some animal studies, it caused cancer
when breathed or absorbed through the skin.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to 1,2-dichloroethane?
Tests are available that measure levels of 1,2-dichloro-
ethane in breath, blood, breast milk, and urine. These tests
are not usually available in a doctor's office. However, a
sample taken in a doctor's office can be sent to a special
laboratory if needed.
1,2-Dichloroethane leaves the body fairly quickly, so
these tests are only good for exposures that occurred within
the previous few days. The tests can't tell if an exposure
will result in harmful effects.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a
limit in drinking water of 0.005 parts of 1,2-dichloroethane
per million parts of water (0.005 ppm). EPA requires that
discharges or spills into the environment of 100 pounds or
more of 1,2-dichloroethane be reported.
The Occupational Saifety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an occupational exposure limit of 50 parts
of 1,2-dichloroethane per million parts of air (50 ppm) for an
8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) has recommended an occupational expo-
sure limit of 1 ppm of 1,2-dichloroethane for a 10-hour
workday, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance that can cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
PPM: Parts per million
Tumor: An abnormal mass of tissue
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for
1,2-dichloroethane. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services, Public Health Service.
T,V ,g
sPeciall
information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
nm,,n,ty or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
i, contact: Agency•forToxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600
http://atsdrl9a^^ FA* 404-639-6315ATSDR **£ home
Federal Recycling Program
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-------
-ATSDR
1,1-DICHLOROETHENE
: CAS # 75-35-4
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about 1,1-dichloroethene. For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
What is 1,1-dichloroethene?
(Pronounced 1,1 -di/klor'o eth'en)
1,1-Dichloroethene is an industrial chemical that is not
found naturally in the environment. It is a colorless liquid
with a mild, sweet smell. It is also called vinylidene
chloride.
1,1-Dichloroethene is used to make certain plastics, such
as flexible films like food wrap, and in packaging materials.
It is also used to make flame retardant coatings for fiber and
carpet backings, and in piping, coating for steel pipes, and in
adhesive applications.
What happens to 1,1-dichloroethene when it
enters the environment?
Q 1,1-Dichloroethene enters the environment from indus-
tries that make or use it.
Q 1,1-Dichloroethene evaporates very quickly from water
and soil to the air.
Q In the air, it takes about 4 days for it to break down.
O 1,1-Dichloroethene breaks down very slowly in water.
Q It does not accumulate very much in fish or birds.
Q In soil, 1,1-dichloroethene is slowly transformed to other
less harmful chemicals.
How might I be exposed to
1,1-dichloroethene?
Q Workers miy be exposed in industries that make or use
1,1-dichloroethene (these industries are mainly in Texas
and Louisiana).
Q Food that is wrapped in plastic wrap may contain very
low levels of 1,1-dichloroethene. The government
controls these levels to prevent harm to your health.
Q A small percentage (3%) of the drinking water supplies
may contain very low levels of 1,1-dichloroethene.
Q Air near factories that make or use 1,1-dichloroethene
and air near hazardous waste sites may contain low
levels of it.
How can 1,1-dichloroethene affect my
health?
The main effect from breathing high levels of
1,1-dichloroethene is on the central nervous system. Some
people lost their breath and fainted after breathing high
levels of the chemical.
Breathing lower levels of 1,1-dichloroethene in air for a
long time may damage your nervous system, liver, and lungs.
Workers exposed to 1,1-dichloroethene have reported a loss
in liver function, but other chemicals were present.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALIH AND HUMAN CERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
-------
Page 2
1,1-DICHLOROETHENE
CAS # 75-35-4
Animals that breathed high levels of 1,1-dichloroethene
had damaged livers, kidneys, and lungs. The offspring of
some of the animals had a higher number of birth defects.
We do not know if birth defects occur when people are
exposed to 1,1-dichloroethene.
Animals that ingested high levels of 1,1-dichloroethene
had damaged livers, kidneys, and lungs. There were no birth
defects in animals that ingested the chemical.
Spilling 1,1-dichloroethene on your skin or in your eyes
can cause irritation.
How likely is 1,1-dichloroethene to cause
cancer?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
determined that 1,1-dichloroethene is a possible human
carcinogen.
Studies on workers who breathed 1,1-dichloroethene
have not shown an increase in cancer. These studies, however,
are not conclusive because of the small numbers of workers
and the short time studied.
Animal studies have shown mixed results. Several studies
reported an increase in tumors in rats and mice, and other
studies reported no such effects.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to 1,1-dichloroethene?
Tests are available to measure levels of 1,1-dichloro-
ethene in breath, urine, and body tissues. These tests are not
usually available in your doctor's office. However, a sample
taken in your doctor's office can be sent to a special labora-
tory if necessary.
Because 1,1-dichloroethene leaves the body fairly
quickly, these methods are useful only for finding exposures
that have occurred within the last few days. These tests can't
tell you if adverse health effects will occur from exposure to
1,1 -dichloroethene.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a limit in drinking water of 0.007 parts
of 1,1-dichloroethene per million parts of drinking water
(0.007 ppm). EPA requires that discharges or spills into the
environment of 5,000 pounds or more of 1,1-dichloroethene
be reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an occupational exposure limit of 1 ppm of
1,1-dichloroethene in workplace air for an 8-hour workday,
40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) currently recommends that workers
breathe as little 1,1 -dichloroethene as possible.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance chat can cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
PPM: Parts per million
Tumor: An abnormal mass of tissue
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for 1,1-dichloro-
ethene. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
i<£n?? infor«»atlon? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have an~?questiOns or
Sr^lS^^T?^ Tl^ AgenCy f°r ToXic Substance* «* Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology 16TO
Clifton Road NE Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315ATSDR Internet home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
1,2-DICHLOROETHENE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about 1,2-dichloroethene. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is one in a series of sum-
maries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information
because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose,
the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: Exposure to l^-dicWqroethene occurs mainly in workplaces where it
is made or used. Breathing high Bevels of l,2,dichloroethenecaa make you feel .
nauseous, drowsy, ancl tired, cis-1,2 -Dichloroethenehas been found in at least 146 of
the 1,430 National Priorities Eist sites identified by the Emdronmental Protection
Agency (EPA). trans-l^-Dichloroethenewas found in at least 563 NPL sites. 1,2-
Dichloroethenewas foundat 336 sites,>ut the isomer (cis- or trans^) was not specified.
What is 1,2-dichloroethene?
1,2-Dichloroethene, also called 1,2-dichloroethyleitie, is
a highly flammable, colorless liquid with a sharp, harsh
odor. It is used to produce solvents and in chemical
mixtures. You can smell very small amounts of 1,2-
dichloroethene in air (about 17 parts of 1,2-dichloroethene
per million parts of air [17 ppm]).
There are two forms of 1,2-dichloroethene; one is called
cis-1,2-dichloroethene and the other is called trans-l,2-di-
chloroethene. Sometimes both forms are present as a
mixture.
What happens to 1,2-dichloroethene when it
enters the environment?
D 1,2-Dichloroethene evaporates rapidly into air.
O In the air, it takes about 5-12 days for half of it to break
down.
O Most 1,2-dichloroethene in the soil surface or bodies of
water will evaporate into air.
D 1,2-Dichloroethene can travel through soil or dissolve in
water in the soil. It is possible that it can contaminate
groundwater.
O In groundwater, it takes about 13^8 weeks to break
down.
O There is a slight chance that 1,2-dichloroethene will
break down into vinyl chloride, a different chemical
which is believed to be more toxic than 1,2-
dichloroethene.
How might I be exposed to 1,2-dichloroethene?
O Breathing 1,2-dichloroethene that has leaked from
hazardous waste sites and landfills
O Drinking:contaminated tap water or breathing vapors
from contaminated water while cooking, bathing, or
washing dishes
a Breathing 1,2-dichloroethene, touching it, or touching
contaminated materials in the workplace
How can 1,2-dichloroethene affect my health?
Breathing high levels of 1,2-dichloroethene can make
you feel nauseous, drowsy, and tired; breathing very high
levels can kill you.
When animals breathed high levels of trans-1,2-
dichloroethenefor short or longer periods of time, their livers
and lungs were damaged and the effects were more severe
with longer exposure times. Animals that breathed very high
levels of trans-1,2-dichloroethenehad damaged hearts.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN [SERVICES, Public Health Service
A«ency for To vie Substances and [Disease Registry
-------
1,2-DICHLOROETHENE
Animals that ingested extremely high doses of cis- or
trans- 1,2-dichloroethene died.
Lower doses of cis-1,2-dichloroethene caused effects on
the blood, such as decreased numbers of red blood cells,
and also effects on the liver.
The long-term (365 days or longer) human health effects
after exposure to low concentrations of 1,2-dichloroethene
aren't known. One animal study suggested that an exposed
fetus may not grow as quickly as one that hasn't been
exposed.
Exposure to 1,2-dichloroethene hasn't been shown to
affect fertility in people or animals.
How likely is 1,2-dichloroethene to cause
cancer?
The EPA has determined that cis-1,2-dichloroethene is
not classifiable as to its human carcinogenicity. No EPA
cancer classification is available for trans-1,2-
dichloroethene.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to 1,2-dichloroethene?
Tests are available to measure concentrations of the
breakdown products of 1,2-dichloroethene in blood, urine,
and tissues. However, these tests aren't used routinely to
determine whether a person has been exposed to this
compound. This is because after you are exposed to 1,2-
dichloroethene, the breakdown products in your body'that
are detected with these tests may be the same as those that
come from exposure to other chemicals. These tests aren't
available in most doctors' offices, but can be done at special
laboratories that have the right equipment.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set the maximum allowable level of cis-
1,2-dichloroethene in drinking water at 0.07 milligrams per
liter of water (0.07 mg/L) and trans-1,2-dichloroethene at
0.1 mg/L.
The EPA requires that any spills or accidental release of
1,000 pounds or more of 1,2-dichloroethene must be
reported to the EPA.
The Occupational Health Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) has set the maximum allowable
amount of 1,2-dichloroethene in workroom air during an 8-
hour workday in a 40-hour workweek at 200 parts of 1,2-
dichloroethene per million parts of air (200 ppm).
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability of a substance to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Fertility: Ability to reproduce
Ingest: To eat or drink something
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
PPM: Parts per million
Solvent: A chemical that can dissolve other substances
Source of Information
This ToxFAQs information is taken from the 1996
Toxicological Profile for 1,2-Dichloroethene produced by
the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry,
Public Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and '
Human Services, Public Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics Their
447 1544, FAX. 404-639-6315, ATSDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov.8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
DIETHYL PHTHALATE
CAS # 84-66-2
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1996
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about diethyl phthalate. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about hazardous
substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance may harm you.
The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed,
personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
? ^ExpSsureto dieihyl |»hthalale occurs when you use plastics that contain
it, ana when you eat>oVfr6ni plastic contaWnsliade with it. Health effects have
nolbeen reported in people exp^tftp diethyl phfhalate.;This suj^tance has been
found in at least 248 of the M30 Natibnal/Friorities Lfaft si|es identified by the
Environmental Protection.Agency (EPA). , ^ / " ;/ . ,
•y/ ->j „ *f / f ,s Z / . ,jy. ^"^ •*& _ , _ -S „„, / _ /• ,.*'*..
What is diethyl phthalate?
(Pronounced di eth'sl thal'at)
Diethyl phthalate is a colorless liquid that has a bitter,
disagreeable taste. This synthetic substance is commonly
used to make plastics more flexible. Products in which it is
found include toothbrushes, automobile parts, tools, toys,
and food packaging.
Diethyl phthalate can be released fairly easily from these
products, as it is not part of the chain of chemicals (poly-
mers) that makes up the plastic. Diethyl phthalate is also used
in cosmetics, insecticides, and aspirin.
What happens to diethyl phthalate when it
enters the environment?
Q Diethyl phthalate has been found in waste sites and
landfills from discarded plastics.
Q It may break down in the air.
Q It can become attached to particles of dust in the air, and
can settle out.
Q It is broken down to harmless products by microorgan-
isms in soil and water.
Q Small amounts of it can build up in fish and shellfish
living in water containing it.
How might I be exposed to diethyl
phthalate?
Q Eating food that was contained in plastic packaging.
Eating contaminated fish and shellfish.
a
a
Drinking contaminated water near waste sites and
landfills that contain diethyl phthalate.
Q Using consumer products that contain it.
How can diethyl phthalate affect my health?
No information is available regarding possible
effects caused by diethyl phthalate if you breathe, eat, or
drink it, or if it touches your skin. Very high oral doses
of diethyl phthalate have caused death in animals, but brief
oral exposures to lower doses caused no harmful effects.
Weight gain was decreased in animals that ate high
doses of diethyl phthalate for a long time. The liver and
kidneys of these animals were larger than normal, but not
from any harmful effects of diethyl phthalate.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
-------
Page 2
DIETH YL PHTHALATE
CAS # 84-66-2
It is not known if diethyl phthalate causes birth defects in
humans. Fewer live babies were born to female animals that
were exposed to diethyl phthalate throughout their lives.
The presence of an extra rib has been noted in newborn
rats whose mothers were given very high dietary doses of
diethyl phthalate, but this effect is not considered harmful by
all scientists. Some birth defects occurred in rats whose
mothers received high doses of diethyl phthalate by injection
during pregnancy. Humans are not exposed to diethyl phtha-
late by this route.
Diethyl phthalate can be mildly irritating when applied to
the skin of animals. It can also be slightly irritating when put
directly into the eyes of animals.
How likely is diethyl phthalate to cause
cancer?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
determined that diethyl phthalate is not classifiable as to its
carcinogenicity in humans.
Diethyl phthalate placed directly on the skin of rats daily
for 2 years was not carcinogenic. Liver tumors were seen in
mice that had diethyl phthalate placed directly on their skin
daily for 2 years. This type of tumor is common in mice, and
the smallest dose resulted in a similar number of tumors as
the largest dose.
It is not clear if diethyl phthalate will cause a similar
effect in humans. Other studies of cancer in humans or
animals exposed to diethyl phthalate were not located.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to diethyl phthalate?
There is no routine medical test to show if you have
been exposed to diethyl phthalate. However, it has been
measured in semen, fat, and kidney tissue in laboratory
studies.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA requires that spills or accidental releases into
the environment of 1,000 pounds or more of diethyl phtha-
late be reported to the EPA.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) and the American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recom-
mend a maximum concentration of 5 milligrams of diethyl
phthalate per cubic meter of air (5 mg/m3) in workplace air
for an 8- to 10-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer.
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service.
Insecticide: Substance that kills insects.
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram.
Oral: Taken by mouth.
Synthetic: Made by humans.
Tumor: An abnormal mass of tissue:
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
1995. Toxicological profile for diethyl phthalate (update).
Atlanta, GA.: U.S. Department of Health and Human Ser-
vices, Public Health Service.
For
™ '"format on? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clin-
recognize, evaluate, and treat ,llnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can
C°mmUmty °r Stfe hea1^ or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concern?
AgenCy f°r Toxic Substances ^d Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology 1600 Clifton
Federal Recycling Program
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-------
-ATSDR
DEHP
Di (2-ethylhexyI) phthalate
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about DEHP. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to di(2-etirymexyl)phthalate VDEHPls generally very low.
Increased exposures may^come from intravenous fluids delivered through plastic
tubing, andfromingesting contaminated foods or water."DEHP isnot toxic at the low
levels usually present. In animals, high levels of DEHP damaged^the liver and kidney
and affected mVability to reproduce. DEHP has beenfound in at least 587 of 1,300 ,
National Priorities List sites identified by the Envkoimentaf Protection Agency.
What is DEHP or di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate?
(Pronounced di 2 - eth"il - hex"sil - thal"ate)
Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate is a manufactured chemical
that makes plastic more flexible. It is also called DEHP.
DEHP is a colorless liquid with almost no odor.
DEHP is in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic products
like toys, vinyl upholstery, shower curtains, adhesives, and
coatings. Vinyl plastic may contain up to 40% DEHP.
DEHP is also used in inks, pesticides, cosmetics, and
vacuum pump oil. It is used to detect leaks in protective
face gear, and as a test material for filtration systems.
Trade names for DEHP are Platinol DOP, Octoil,
Silicol 150, Bisoflex 81, andEviplast 80.
What happens to DEHP when it enters the
environment?
Q DEHP is everywhere in the environment because of its
use in plastics, but it evaporates into air and dissolves
into water at very low rates.
Q DEHP from plastic materials, coatings, and flooring
can increase indoor air levels.
Q It dissolves faster in water if gas, oil, or paint removers
are present.
Q It attaches strongly to soil particles.
Q Small organisms in surface water or soil break it down
into harmless compounds.
Q It doesn't break down easily in deep soil, or in lake or
river bottoms.
Q It is in plants, fish, and other animals, but animals high
on the food chain are able to breakdown DEHP, so
tissue levels are usually low.
How might I be exposed to DEHP?
DEHP is usually present at very low levels even in the
sources of potentially higher exposures listed below.
Q Use of medical products packaged in plastic such as
blood products
Q Eating some foods packaged in plastics, especially fatty
foods like milk products, fish and seafood, oils, but
levels still usually quite low
Q Drinking well water near waste sites, but levels usually
are low
Q Breathing workplace air or indoor air where DEHP is
released, but usually not at levels of concern
Q Fluids from plastic intravenous tubing if used
extensively as for kidney dialysis.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for To dc Substances and Disease Registry
-------
Page 2
DEHP
Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
How can DEHP affect my health?
There is no evidence that DEHP causes serious health
effects in humans. Most of what we know about the health
effects of DEHP comes from high exposures to rats and
mice.
Adverse effects in animals were generally seen only at
high doses or with long term exposures. You are not
likely to be exposed to these very high levels. Moreover,
absorption and breakdown of DEHP in humans is different
than in rats and mice, so the effects seen in rats and mice
may not occur in humans.
The studies in rats and mice with DEHP in the air
produced no serious harmful effects. There was no effect
on lifespan or the ability to reproduce.
Brief exposure to very high levels of DEHP in food or
water damaged sperm, but the effect reversed when DEHP
was removed from the diet. Longer exposures to high
doses affected the ability of both males and females to
reproduce and caused birth defects.
High levels of DEHP damaged the livers of rats and
mice. Long exposures of rats to DEHP caused kidney
damage similar to the damage seen in the kidneys of
long-term dialysis patients. Whether or not DEHP
contributes to human kidney damage, is unclear at present.
You should have no health effects from skin contact
with products containing DEHP because it cannot be taken
up easily through the skin.
How likely is DEHP to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that DEHP may reasonably be
anticipated to be a carcinogen. There is no evidence that
DEHP causes cancer in humans, but high exposures in rats
and mice increased liver cancer. Based on these studies,
DEHP has been classified as a potential carcinogen.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to DEHP?
A test is available that measures a breakdown product
of DEHP called mono(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (MEHP).
MEHP is measured in your urine or blood. This test is
good only for recent exposures because DEHP remains in
your body for only a short time.
These tests require special equipment that is not
routinely available in a doctor's office.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency proposed a
limit of 6 parts DEHP per billion parts of drinking water
(6ppb).
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) limits the
types of food packaging materials containing DEHP.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) limits the average level of DEHP in workplace au-
to 5 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) over an 8-hour
workday and 10 mg/m3 for a 15-minute exposure. .
The American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists: (ACGIH) has established the same
guidelines as the OSHA regulations for the workplace.
Glossary
Carcinogen: Substance that can cause cancer.
Ingesting: Talcing food or drink into you body.
PPB: Parts per billion.
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Toxicological profile for
di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate. Atlanta: U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333
Phone: 404-639-6000.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
DI-W-OCTYLPHTHALATE (DNOP)
CAS# 117-84-0
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQsj
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently ask<;d health questions (FAQs) about di-W-octylphthalate (DNOP).
For more information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is one in a
series of summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this
information because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance
depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals
are present.
What is di-n-octylphthalate?
Di-n-octylphthalate is a colorless, odorless, oily liquid
that doesn't evaporate easily. It is a man-made substance
used to keep plastics soft or more flexible. This type of plas-
tic can be used for medical tubing and blood storage bags,
wire and cables, carpetback coating, floor tile, and adhesives.
It is also used in cosmetics and pesticides.
What happens to di-n-octylphthalate whera it
enters the environment?
Q Di-n-octylphthalate can be released to water or air during
its manufacture, by leaking from plastics in landfills, or
from the burning of plastic products.
Q If di-n-octylphthalate is released into the air, it may be
deposited on the ground or to surface water in raiin or
dust particles.
0! Di-n-octylphthalate sticks tightly to soil, sediment, and
dust particles.
Q Di-n-octylphthalate is mainly broken down into other
substances by microorganisms.
Q It can also be broken down in reactions with sunlight,
other chemicals in the atmosphere, or water.
Q Small amounts of di-n-octylphthalate can build up in
animals that live in water, such as fish and oysters.
How might I be exposed to di-n-octylphthalate?
Q Eating foods stored in containers made with di-n-
octylphthalate that has leaked into the food.
Q Receiving blood transfusions, dialysis, or other medical
treatments in which the equipment is made of plastics
containing di-n-octylphthalate.
Q Breathing contaminated air, drinking contaminated wa-
ter, or touching contaminated soil near hazardous waste
sites or an industrial manufacturing facility that uses or
makes di-n-octylphthalate.
How can di-n-octylphthalate affect my health?
Little information is known about the health effects that
might be caused by di-n-octylphthalate. It is not known
what happens when you breathe or ingest the chemical.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
DI-W-OCTYLPHTHALATE (DNOP)
CAS# 117-84-0
ToxMQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdncdcJov:8080/T6xFAb.htmi
Some rats and mice that were given very high doses of
di-n-octylphthalate by mouth died. Mildly harmful effects
have been seen in the livers of some rats and mice given
very high doses of di-n-octylphthalate by mouth for short
(14 days or less) or intermediate periods (15 to 365 days) of
time, but lower doses given for short periods of time gener-
ally caused no harmful effects.
No information is available on the, health effects of hav-
ing di-n-octylphthalate in contact with human skin. It can be
mildly irritating when applied to the skin of animals.
It is not known whether or not di-n-octylphthalate could
affect the ability to have children, or if it could cause birth
defects.
How likely is di-n-octylphthalate to cause
cancer?
Di-n-octylphthalate is not known to cause cancer in hu-
mans or animals.
Di-n-octylphthalate has not been classified as to its carci-
nogenicity by the Department of Health and Human Ser-
vices (DHHS), the International Agency for Research on
Cancer (IARC), or the EPA.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to di-n-octylphthalate?
Di-n-octylphthalate and its principal breakdown products
can be measured in urine, blood, and tissues. However, it is
not known if they are specific for di-n-octylphthalate or for
how long after exposure occurs the test is useful. These facts
cannot be used to determine how much di-n-octylphthalate
you were exposed to or predict whether harmful effects will
occur.
This test is not part of a routine medical examination, but
it can be done by the doctor's request at special laboratories.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has recently determined that there is not
enough evidence to say that di-n-octylphthalate causes harm-
ful effects in humans or the environment.
The EPA requires that spills or accidental releases into
the environment of 5,000 pounds or more of di-n-octylphtha-
late be reported to the EPA.
Glossary
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
Evaporate: To change into a vapor or a gas
Ingest: To eat or drink something
Sediment: Mud and debris that have settled to the bottom of
a body of water
Source of Information
This ToxFAQs information is taken from the 1997 Toxi-
cological Profile for Di-n-octylphthalate produced by the
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Public
Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Ser-
vices, Public Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? . For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333 Phone- 1-800-
447-1544, FAX: 404-639-6359. ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080yToxFAQhtml
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evalu-
ate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state
health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
ETHYLBENZENE
CAS # 100-41-4
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs
June 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about ethylbenzene. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's importantyou understand this information
because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the
dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
•* f ,
HIGHLIGHTS: Ethylbenzene is a colorless liquid found in a number of
products including gasoline and paints. Breathing very high levels can cause
dizziness and throat and eye irritation. Ethylbenzene has been found in at
least 731 of the 1,467 National priorities List sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EFA).
What is ethylbenzene?
(Pronounced eth/ si ben' zen')
Ethylbenzene is a colorless, flammable liquid that smells
like gasoline. It is found in natural products such as coal tar
and petroleum and is also found in manufactured products
such as inks, insecticides, and paints.
Ethylbenzene is used primarily to make another chemical,
styrene. Other uses include as a solvent, in fuels, and to make
other chemicals.
What happens to ethylbenzene when it enters the
environment?
Q Ethylbenzene moves easily into the air from water and
soil.
Q It takes about 3 days for ethylbenzene to be broken down
in air into other chemicals.
Q Ethylbenzene may be released to water from industrial
discharges or leaking underground storage tanks.
Q In surface water, ethylbenzene breaks down by reacting
with other chemicals found naturally in water.
Q In soil, it is broken down by soil bacteria.
How might I be exposed to ethylbenzene?
Q Breathing air containing ethylbenzene, particularly in
areas near factories or highways
Q Drinking contaminated tap water
a Working hi an industry where ethylbenzene is used or
made
Q Using products containing it, such as gasoline, carpet
glues, varnishes, and paints
How can ethylbenzene affect my health?
Limited information is available on the effects of ethyl-
benzene on people's health. The available information shows
dizziness, throat and eye irritation, tightening of the chest,
and a burning sensation hi the eyes of people exposed to high
levels of ethylbenzene in air.
Animals studies have shown effects on the nervous system,
liver, kidneys, and eyes from breathing ethylbenzene in ah-.
How likely is | ethylbenzene to cause cancer?
The EPA has determined that ethylbenzene is not classifi-
able as to human carcinogenicity.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SEJRVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
ETHYLBENZENE
CAS # 100-41-4
No studies in people have shown that ethylbenzene expo-
sure can result in cancer. Two available animal studies suggest
that ethylbenzene may cause tumors.
How can ethylbenzene affect children?
Children may be exposed to ethylbenzene through inhala-
tion of consumer products, including gasoline, paints, inks,
pesticides, and carpet glue. We do not know whether children
are more sensitive to the effects of ethylbenzene than adults.
It is not known whether ethylbenzene can affect the
development of the human fetus. Animal studies have
shown that when pregnant animals were exposed to ethyl-
benzene in air, their babies had an increased number of
birth defects.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure to
ethylbenzene?
Exposure to ethylbenzene vapors from household prod-
ucts and newly installed carpeting can be minimized by using
adequate ventilation.
Household chemicals should be stored out of reach of
children to prevent accidental poisoning. Always store house-
hold chemicals in their original containers; never store them in
containers children would find attractive to eat or drink from,
such as old soda bottles. Gasoline should be stored in a gaso-
line can with a locked cap.
Sometimes older children sniff household chemicals, in-
cluding ethyl-benzene, in an attempt to get high. Talk with
your children about the dangers of sniffing chemicals.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been
exposed to ethylbenzene?
Ethylbenzene is found in the blood, urine, breath, and
some body tissues of exposed people. The most common
way to test for ethylbenzene is in the urine. This test mea-
sures substances formed by the breakdown of ethylbenzene.
This test needs to be done within a few hours after exposure
occurs, because the substances leave the body very quickly.
These tests can show you were exposed to ethylbenzene,
but cannot predict the kind of health effects that might occur.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level of
0.7 milligrams of ethylbenzene per liter of drinking water
(0.7 mg/L).
The EPA requires that spills or accidental releases into the
environment of 1,000 pounds or more of ethylbenzene be re-
ported to the EPA.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an occupational exposure limit of 100 parts of
ethylbenzene per million parts of air (100 ppm) for an 8-hour
workday, 40-hour workweek.
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1999. Toxicological Profile for Ethylbenzene.
Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Pub-
lic Health Service.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people or to treat those who have
been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of research ani-
mals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
£8S5lSS?S5> 7"p^nT; 1600fiftonR°adNE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-888-422-8737,
FAX 404-639-6359 ToxF^s Internet address via WWW is http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html ATSDR can tell you where
*"d °n™ental ^ * CliniCS' ""* SpedaHstS Can reC°Snize' eva'uate> and ** iHnesseJ r
contact your community or state heakh or envi—1
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
JSDR
FLUORIDES, HYDROGEN
FLUORIDE, AND FLUORINE (F)
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about fluorides, hydrogen
fluoride, and fluorine. For more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in
a series of summaries about hazardous substances and their heatth effects. This information is
important because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous
substance depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and
whether other chemicals are present.
What are fluorides, hydrogen fluoride, and
fluorine?
(Pronounced flo'o^rids, hy'dro-jen
flo'd-rids, flo'o-ren)
Fluorides, hydrogen fluoride, and fluorine are
chemically related. Fluorine is a pale, yellow-green gas that
has a strong, sharp odor. It combines with hydrogen to
make hydrogen fluoride, a colorless gas. Hydrogen fluoride
dissolves in water to form hydrofluoric acid.
Fluorine also combines with metals to make fluorides
like sodium fluoride and calcium fluoride, both white
solids. Sodium fluoride dissolves easily hi water, but
calcium fluoride doesn't.
Fluorine is used in rocket fuels, glass, enamel, and
bricks. Hydrogen fluoride is used mainly to make
aluminum and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Fluorides are
used in making steel, chemicals, ceramics, lubricants, dyes,
plastics, and pesticides (for ants and roaches).
, Toothpaste and mouth rinses have fluorides added to
prevent cavities. If drinking water supplies are low in
fluoride, many communities add fluorides to help prevent
cavities. Some skin medicines and cancer treatment drugs
also contain fluorides.
What happens to fluorides, hydrogen
fluoride, and fluorine when they enter the
environment?
Q Fluorine forms salts with minerals in soil, and doesn't
evaporate back into air as a gas.
O Fluorides in released to the air from volcanoes and
industry are carried by wind and rain to nearby water,
soil, and food sources.
Q They erode from rocks into soil and water, and leach
from phosphorus fertilizers into food and water
supplies.
Q Some plants take up and store fluorides in their leaves
and stems.
How might I be exposed to fluorides, hydrogen
fluoride, and fluorine?
Q Breathing workplace air where fluorides are used or
released
Q Eating food from soil with high natural levels or high
levels; from fertilizers or nearby waste sites
O Eating toothpaste that contains fluorides
O Drinking contaminated water
Q Ingesting contaminated soil particles.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for TJrxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
FLUORIDES, HYDROGEN
FLUORIDE, AND FLUORINE (F)
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
How can fluorides, hydrogen fluoride, and
fluorine affect my health?
Fluorides are everywhere throughout the environment,
but at very low levels that are not believed to be harmful.
At high levels, fluorine gas and hydrogen fluoride gas
can harm the lungs and heart and can cause death. Even at
low levels, these gases can irritate your eyes, skin, and
lungs. Contact with hydrofluoric acid can burn the eyes
and skin. This mainly happens hi the workplace.
Small amounts of sodium fluoride help reduce tooth
cavities, but high levels can harm your health. In children
whose teeth are forming, high fluoride exposure can cause
dental fluorosis with visible changes in the teeth. In
adults, high fluoride over a long time can lead to skeletal
fluorosis with denser bones, joint pain, and a limited joint
movement. This is extremely rare in the U.S.
We don't know the effects of fluoride on reproduction
or developing fetuses. Cows and various birds are known
to have reproductive problems when they eat or drink large
amounts of fluoride. The results from laboratory studies in
animal are mixed.
How likely are fluorides, hydrogen fluoride,
and fluorine to cause cancer?
Fluorine, hydrogen fluoride, and fluorides have not
been classified for carcinogenic effects. Studies in people
have not shown fluorides to be carcinogenic, and the
studies in animals are mixed. More research is in progress.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to fluorides, hydrogen fluoride,
and fluorine?
Tests are available to determine recent high exposures
to fluorides. The test measures fluorides in the urine. This
test cannot predict any specific health effects from fluoride
exposure. Most laboratories that test for chemical
exposure can perform the test Bone sampling is done in
special cases to measure a long-term exposure to fluorides.
Because fluorine, hydrogen fluoride, and fluorides all enter
the body as fluoride, these tests do not distinguish the
source of the fluoride.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets a
maximum amount of 4 milligrams fluoride per liter of
drinking water (4 mg/L). EPA recommends that states
limit fluoride in drinking water to 2 mg/L. Spills of more
than 10 pounds of fluoiine, 100 pounds of hydrogen
fluoride, or 1,000 pounds of sodium fluoride must be
reported to the National Response Center.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) Limits an 8-hour work day, 40-hour work week to
0.2 milligrams of fluorides per cubic meter air (0.2 mg/m3).
The level for hydrogen fluoride is 2.5 mg/m3. The highest
level of fluoride allowed by OSHA for an 8-hour work day,
40-hour work week is 2.5 mg/m3.
Glossary
Carcinogenic: Ability to cause cancer.
Ingestion: Taking food or drink into your body.
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Toxicological profile for fluorides,
hydrogen fluoride, and fluorine (F). Atlanta: U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333,
Phone: 404-639-6000.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
HEXACHLORO-
CYCLOHEXANES
CAS # 319-84-6, 319-85-7, 319-86-8, 58-89-9
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs
June 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about hexachlorocyclohexanes.
For more information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in
a series of summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand
this information because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance
depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals
are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: Exposure to hexachlorocyclohexanes happens mostly/froni eating
contalrninated foods or by breafljing contaminatedair in the workplac%. Exposure to
high levels of hexachlorocyclohexanes: cfci eause1>iood disorders, dizziness, headaches,
^seizures, and changes in the levels oJf sex hormones. These stibstan&s have been found
in af least 144 of the 1,467/National PrioritiesXist siltes^^identified by the Enwonmentel
Protection Agency (EP^). ^/^< \: ^./; ^ -^'* •""' ' • * - - " - ^*"" * -
What are hexachlorocyclohexanes?
(Pronounced hek/ss k!6r/ o sl'ldo heks' ans)
Hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCH) are a group of manufac-
tured chemicals that do not occur naturally in the environ-
ment. HCH has eight chemical forms (called isomers). The
four most common are alpha-, beta-, gamma, and delta-HCH.
The most common of these is gamma-HCH (also known as
lindane). Lindane is a white solid substance that may evap-
orate into the air as a colorless vapor with a slightly musty
odor. It is the common form of hexachlorocyclohexane.
Lindane was used as an insecticide on fruit and veg-
etable crops (including greenhouse vegetables and tobacco)
and forest crops (including Christmas trees). It is still used in
ointments to treat head and body lice, and scabies.
Lindane has not been produced in the United States since
1977. It is still imported to and formulated in the United
States.
What happens to hexachlorocyclohexanes
when they enter the environment?
Q In air, HCH can be present as a vapor or attached to small
particles such as soil or dust.
Q Lindane can remain in the air for up to 17 weeks and
travel long distances.
H^^^™^^^^^^^"^""^^™™^^^™^^^^™"^^^~™^
Q Particles with attached HCH may be removed from the air
by rain.
Q In soil, sediments, and water, it is broken down by algae,
fungi, and bacteria to less harmful substances.
Q HCH isomers are broken down quickly in water; lindane
does not remain in water longer than 30 days.
Q The length of time that HCH isomers remain in soil is not
known.
Q It can accumulate in the fatty tissue of fish.
How might I be exposed to hexachlorocyclo-
hexanes?
Q Eating contaminated foods, such as plants, meat, and
milk
Q Breathing contaminated air in or near factories where
products using HCH are made
Q Through skin when applied as a lotion or shampoo to
control lice and scabies
Q Drinking contaminated water or breathing contaminated
air near waste sites or landfills
How can hexachlorocyclohexanes affect my
health?
Some people who breathed contaminated workplace air
during the manufacturing of pesticides, including lindane,
had blood disorders, dizziness, headaches, and changes in the
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
HEXACHLOROCYCLOHEXANES
CAS # 319-84-6, 319-85-7, 319-86-8, 58-89-9
levels of sex hormones. Some people who swallowed large
amounts had seizures and sometimes died.
Animals fed high levels of HCH had convulsions and
some became comatose. Liver and kidney effects and a
reduced ability to fight infections occurred at moderate levels.
Animal showed a decreased ability to reproduce when
they were fed moderate to high levels of HCH.
How likely are hexachlorocyclohexanes to
cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
has determined that HCH may reasonably be anticipated to
be a carcinogen. Liver cancer has been seen in laboratory
rodents that ate HCH for a long period of time.
How can hexachlorocyclohexanes affect
children?
There are no studies on the effects of HCH on children.
It is not known whether HCH can cause birth defects in
people. Animal studies have not shown birth defects in the
babies of animals fed HCH during pregnancy. HCH has been
detected in human breast milk.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure
to hexachlorocyclohexanes?
If you work with HCH, take all safety precautions to
avoid bringing the dust home on your clothing. If you use
products containing HCH, follow directions for use carefully.
Make sure that you keep it in tightly covered containers and
store the containers safely where children cannot reach them.
Always store chemicals in the original labeled containers. Do
not store HCH in containers that children would find attrac-
tive to eat or drink from, such as soda bottles.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to hexachlorocyclohexanes?
Laboratory tests can measure HCH in blood, urine, and
semen. These tests do not tell you how much HCH you've
been exposed to or if harmful effects will occur. The tests are
not routinely available at your doctor's office.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a limit in drinking water of 0.2 parts of
lindane per billion parts of water (0.2 ppb). The EPA requires
that spills or accidental discharges of lindane into the
environment of 1 pound or more must be reported to the EPA.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH), and the American Conference of Govern-
mental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommend a maxi-
mum level of 0.5 milligrams lindane per cubic meter (0.5 mg/
m3) of workplace air for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour work-
week. These agencies advise avoiding eye and skin contact
because this may be a route of significant exposure.
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1999. Toxicological Profile for Alpha-, Beta-,
Gamma-, and Delta-hexachlorocyclohexane. Atlanta: U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
Service.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
o F°r m°re information' contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
,9llft°nRoadNE' MailstopE-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-888-422-8737
^
^
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
2-HEXANONE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about 2-hexanone. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: 'Exposure tbS-Jiexaja|neJs most likely to occur from Mrig> near or ,
^working in plants, that make gas frpjn eoalfpr^cess oil shale, or produce wood pulp.
You may also be exposed tf you liveijnearji hazardous waste site where-2-heXanone
is Couiid. In people, exposure to hexanone is moft likely; tQ affect the nervous system.
This chemical haCbe^nfolm^ ??tes
identified by the .EnVironmentaltPjpbte^tion ^ Agency.
"
What is 2-hexanone?
(Pronounced 2-hek'ss-non)
2-Hexanone is also known as methyl n-butyl ketone,
MBK, or propyl acetone. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a
sharp odor. It dissolves very easily in water, and can evapo-
rate easily into the air as a vapor.
It was used in the past in paint and paint thinner, to make
other chemical substances, and to dissolve oils and waxes.
It is no longer made or used in the United States because
it has harmful health effects. It is formed as a waste product
resulting from industrial activities such as making wood pulp
and producing gas from coal, and in oil shale operations.
What happens to 2-hexanone when it enters
the environment?
Q 2-Hexanone dissolves easily in water.
Q It evaporates quickly into the air.
Q It may be broken down into other chemicals in the
atmosphere or may be removed by rain or snow.
Q 2-Hexanone may be broken down by microorganisms in
water and soil.
Q It doesn't usually attach to soils or sediment. ,
Q It doesn't usually build up in plants and animals.
Q Half of the 2-hexanone in river water breaks down or
evaporates in about 10-15 days.
Q In the air, half of the 2-hexanone breaks down in about
36 hours.
Q It is not known how long it takes to break down in soil.
How might I be exposed to 2-hexanone?
Q Breathing contaminated air
D Drinking contaminated water
a Absorbing it through your skin if you touch liquid or soil
that contains it
Q Eating some foods that naturally contain low levels of
2-hexanone
O Using products manufactured before 1982 that contain
2-hexanone (such as paint thinners)
Q Working in coal gasification, oil shale processing, or
wood pulping operations
Q Living near hazardous waste sites where it is found.
How can 2-hexanone affect my health?
Breathing 2-hexanone can harm your nervous system.
Workers who were exposed to 2-hexanone in the air for
almost a year felt weakness, numbness, and tingling in the
skin of the hands and feet.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
-------
2-HEXANONE
Similar effects were seen in different animals that ate or
breathed high levels of 2-hexanone.
In one study, pregnant rats that breathed 2-hexanone did
not gain as much weight during their pregnancy, had fewer
babies, and had babies that were smaller and less active than
the rats that were not exposed.
We do not know if breathing 2-hexanone affects human
reproduction or causes birth defects.
We do not know whether touching or ingesting 2-hex-
anone would affect your health. Animal studies have shown
that ingesting high levels of 2-hexanone harms the nervous
system. Also, animals that ingested 2-hexanone experienced
decreased body weight and effects on reproduction.
How likely is 2-hexanone to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services has
not classified 2-hexanone as to human carcinogenicity.
Also, the International Agency for Research on
Cancer and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
have not classified 2-hexanone as to human carcinogenicity.
There is no information available on the potential
carcinogenic effects of 2-hexanone in people or in experi-
mental animals.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to 2-hexanone?
Several tests are available to tell whether you have been
exposed to 2-hexanone. These tests can measure the levels
of 2-hexanone, or its breakdown products, in your blood or
urine. This test only tells you if you have been exposed and
cannot predict whether your health will be affected.
These tests are not routinely performed at your doctor's
office, but your doctor can take blood or urine samples and
send them to a testing laboratory.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Occupational Safety and Health Agency (OSHA)
has set a limit for exposure of workers to an average level of
100 parts of 2-hexanone per million parts of air (ppm) for an
8-hour workday over a 40-hour workweek.
The American Conference of Governmental Indus-
trial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommends an exposure limit of
5 ppm for an 8-hour workday over a 40-hour workweek in
workplace air.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) recommends that workers be exposed to
no more than an average of 1 ppm for up to a 10-hour
workday over a 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstract Services
Gasification: Conversion qf coal to gas
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
PPM: Parts per million
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for 2-hexanone.
Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
T^ir
-------
-ATSDR
LEAD
CAS # 7439-92-1
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Rfegistry ToxFAQs!
June 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about lead. For more information,
call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries
about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's importantyou understand this information because
this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: Exposure to lead can happen from breathing workplace air
or dust, eating contaminated foods, or drinking contaminated water. Children
can be exposed from eating lead-based paint chips or playing in contaminated
soil. Lead can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive system.
Lead has been found in at least 1,026 of 1,467 National Priorities List sites
identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). / .,
What is lead?
(Pronounced led)
Lead is a naturally occurring bluish-gray metal found in
small amounts in the earth's crust. Lead can be found in all
parts of our environment. Much of it comes from human ac-
tivities including burning fossil fuels, mining, and manufac-
turing.
Lead has many different uses. It is used in the production
of batteries, ammunition, metal products (solder and pipes),
and devices to shield X-rays.
Because of health concerns, lead from gasoline, paints
and ceramic products, caulking, and pipe solder has been dra-
matically reduced in recent years.
What happens to lead when it enters the
environment?
Q Lead itself does not break down, but lead compounds are
changed by sunlight, air, and water.
Q When lead is released to the air, it may travel long dis-
tances before settling to the ground.
Q Once lead falls onto soil, it usually sticks to soil particles.
Q Movement of lead from soil into groundwater will depend
on the type of lead compound and the characteristics of
the soil.
Q Much of the lead in inner-city soils comes from old
houses painted with lead-based paint.
How might I! be exposed to lead?
Q Eating food or drinking water that contains lead
Q Spending time in areas where lead-based paints have
been used and are deteriorating
Q Working in.a job where lead is used
Q Using health-care products or folk remedies that contain
lead
a Engaging in certain hobbies in which lead is used (for
example, stained glass)
How can lead affect my health?
Lead can affect almost every organ and system in your
body. The most sensitive is the central nervous system, par-
ticularly in children. Lead also damages kidneys and the re-
productive system. The effects are the same whether it is
breathed or swallowed.
At high levels, lead may decrease reaction time, cause
weakness in fingers, wrists, or ankles, and possibly affect the
memory. Lead may cause anemia, a disorder of the blood. It
can also damage the male reproductive system. The connec-
tion between these effects and exposure to low levels of lead
is uncertain.
How likely is lead to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services has deter-
mined that lead acetate and lead phosphate may reasonably
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and pisease Registry
-------
Page 2
LEAD
CAS .# 7439-92-1
be anticipated to be carcinogens based on studies in animals.
There is inadequate evidence to clearly determine lead's carci-
nogenicity in people.
How can lead affect children?
Small children can be exposed by eating lead-based paint
chips, chewing on objects painted with lead-based paint, or
swallowing house ducst or soil that contains lead.
Children are more vulnerable to lead poisoning than
adults. A child who swallows large amounts of lead may de-
velop blood anemia, severe stomachache, muscle weakness,
and brain damage. A large amount of lead might get into a'
child's body if the child ate small pieces of old paint that con-
tained large amounts of lead. If a child swallows smaller
amounts of lead, much less severe effects on blood and brain
function may occur. Even at much lower levels of exposure,
lead can affect a child's mental and physical growth.
Exposure to lead is more dangerous for young and unborn
children. Unborn children can be exposed to lead through their
mothers. Harmful effects include premature births, smaller ba-
bies, decreased mental ability in the infant, learning difficul-
ties, and reduced growth in young children. These effects are
more common if the mother or baby was exposed to high levels
of lead.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure to
lead?
Avoid exposure to sources of lead. Do not allow children
to chew or mouth painted surfaces that may have been painted
with lead-based paint (homes built before 1978). Run your
water for 15 to 30 seconds before drinking or cooking with it.
This will get rid of lead that may have leached out of pipes.
Some types of paints and pigments that are used as make-up or
hair coloring contain lead. Keep these kinds of products away
from children. Wash children's hands and faces often to remove
lead dusts and soil, and regularly clean the house of dust and
tracked in soil.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been
exposed to lead?
A blood test is available to measure the amount of lead in
your blood and to estimate the amount of your exposure to
lead. Blood tests are commonly used to screen children for
lead poisoning. Lead in teeth and bones can be measured with
X-rays, but this test is not as readily available. Medical treat-
ment may be necessary in children if the lead concentration in
blood is higher than 45 micrograms per deciliter (45 ug/dL).
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
recommends that children ages 1 and 2 be screened for lead
poisoning. Children who are 3 to 6 years old should be tested
for lead if they have never been tested for lead before and if
they receive services from public assistance programs; if they
live in or regularly visit a building built before 1950; if they
live in or visit a home built before 1978 that is being remod-
eled; or if they have a brother, sister, or playmate who has had
lead poisoning. CDC considers children to have an elevated
level of lead if the amount in the blood is 10 ug/dL.
The EPA requires lead in air not to exceed 1.5 micrograms
per cubic meter (1.5 ug/m3) averaged over 3 months. EPA lim-
its lead in drinking water to 15 ug per liter.
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration
(OSHA) develops regulations for workers exposed to lead. The
Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 banned the sale of leaded
gasoline. The Federal Hazardous Substance Act bans children's
products that contain hazardous amounts of lead.
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). .
1999. Toxicological Profile for Lead. Atlanta: U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
MERCURY
CAS # 7439-97-6
Aoencv for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs |
April 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about mercury. For more information,
call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information because this
substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration,
how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: Exposure to mercury occurs from breathing contaminated air,
ingesting contaminated water and food, and having dental and medical treatments.
Mercury, at high levels, may damage the brain, kidneys, and developing fetus. This
chemical has been found in at least 714 of i,467 National Priorities List sites identified
by the Environmental Protection Agency. ^^
What is mercury?
Mercury is a naturally occurring metal which has several
forms. The metallic mercury is a shiny, silver-white, odorless
liquid. If heated, it is a colorless, odorless gas.
Mercury combines with other elements, such as chlorine,
sulfur, or oxygen, to form inorganic mercury compounds or
"salts," which are usually white powders or crystals. Mercury
also combines with carbon to make organic mercury com-
pounds. The most common one, methylmercury, is produced
mainly by microscopic organisms in the water and soil. More
mercury in the environment can increase the amounts of me-
thylmercury that these small organisms make.
Metallic mercury is used to produce chlorine gas and
caustic soda, and is also used in thermometers, dental fillings,
and batteries. Mercury salts are sometimes used in sMn light-
ening creams and as antiseptic creams and ointments.
What happens to mercury when it enters the
environment?
Q Inorganic mercury (metallic mercury and inorganic mer-
cury compounds) enters the air from mining ore deposits,
burning coal and waste, and from manufacturing plants.
Q It enters the water or soil from natural deposits, disposal
of wastes, and volcanic activity
Q Methylmercury may be formed in water and soil by small
organisms called bacteria.
Q Methylmercury builds up in the tissues of fish. Larger and
older fish tend to have the highest levels of mercury.
How might I be exposed to mercury?
Q Eating fish or shellfish contaminated with methylmercury.
Q Breathing vapors in air from spills, incinerators, and in-
dustries that burn mercury-containing fuels.
Q Release of mercury from dental work and medical treatments.
Q Breathing contaminated workplace air or skin contact
during use in the workplace (dental, health services,
chemical, and other industries that use mercury).
Q Practicing rituals that include mercury.
How can mercury affect my health?
The nervous system is very sensitive to all forms of mer-
cury. Methylmercury and metallic mercury vapors are more
harmful than other forms, because more mercury in these
forms reaches the brain. Exposure to high levels of metallic,
inorganic, or organic mercury can permanently damage the
brain, kidneys, and developing fetus. Effects on brain func-
tioning may result in irritability, shyness, tremors, changes in
vision or hearing, and memory problems.
Short-term exposure to high levels of metallic mercury
vapors may cause effects including lung damage, nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, increases in blood pressure or heart rate,
skin rashes, and eye irritation.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
-------
MERCURY
CAS # 7439-97-6
FoxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://www.atsdncdc.gov/toxbiq.html
"' i i i
How likely is mercury to cause cancer?
There are inadequate human cancer data available for all
forms of mercury. Mercuric chloride has caused increases in
several types of tumors in rats and mice, and methylmercury
has caused kidney tumors in male mice. The EPA has deter-
mined that mercuric chloride and methylmercury are possible
human carcinogens.
How can mercury affect children?
Very young children are more sensitive to mercury than
adults. Mercury in the mother's body passes to the fetus and
may accumulate there. It can also can pass to a nursing infant
through breast milk. However, the benefits of breast feeding
may be greater than the possible adverse effects of mercury in
breast milk.
Mercury's harmful effects that may be passed from the
mother to the fetus include brain damage, mental retardation,
incoordination, blindness, seizures, and inability to speak.
Children poisoned by mercury may develop problems of their
nervous and digestive systems, and kidney damage.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure to
mercury?
Carefully handle and dispose of products that contain
mercury, such as thermometers or fluorescent light bulbs. Do
not vacuum up spilled mercury, because it will vaporize and
increase exposure. If a large amount of mercury has been
spilled, contact your health department. Teach children not to
play with shiny, silver liquids.
Properly dispose of older medicines that contain mercury.
Keep all mercury-containing medicines away from children.
Pregnant women and children should keep away from
rooms where liquid mercury has been used.
Learn about wildlife and fish advisories in your area from
your public health or natural resources department.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to mercury?
Tests are available to measure mercury levels in the body.
Blood or urine samples are used to test for exposure to metal-
lic mercury and to inorganic forms of mercury. Mercury in
whole blood or in scalp hair is measured to determine expo-
sure to methylmercury. Your doctor can take samples and
send them to a testing laboratory.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a limit of 2 parts of mercury per billion
parts of drinking water (2 ppb).
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set a maxi-
mum permissible level of 1 part of methylmercury in a mil-
lion parts of seafood (1 ppm).
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set limits of 0.1 milligram of organic mercury
per cubic meter of workplace air (0.1 mg/m3) and 0.05 mg/m3
of metallic mercury vapor for 8-hour shifts and 40-hour work
weeks.
Source of Information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Register
(ATSDR). 1999. Toxicological Profile for Mercury. Atlanta:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
S YS2k*™S£«"S?*™^8* !600 Clifton Road NE, MailstopE-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-888-422-8737,
fAX: 404-639-6359. ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html ATSDR can tell you
where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses
resultmg from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or environmental
quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
TSDR
METHYLENE
CHLORIDE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about methylene chloride. For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration,
how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether othfer chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to methyleitie chloride happens mostly from breathing air in
the workplace were it is used. In people/directskin contact causes intense burning
and mild skin redness. This substancehas been foundin at least;746 of 1,300
National Priorities List sitesidentified by the Environmental Protection Agency.
What is methylene chloride?
(Pronounced meth" i - len klo' rid)
Methylene chloride is a colorless liquid with a mild,
sweet odor. Another name for it is dichloromethane.
It does not occur naturally in the environment. It's made
from methane gas or wood alcohol. It's widely used as a
solvent in paint strippers, as a propellant in aerosols, and as a
process solvent in the manufacturing of drags. It's also used
as a metal cleaning and finishing solvent.
Most methylene chloride gets in the environment from
its use in industry and from home use of aerosols and paint
removers. Because of concern over the health effects, its use
in aerosols has declined.
Methylene chloride is approved as an extraction solvent
for spices and hops. It used to be popular for removing
caffeine from coffee, but most coffee producers no longer
use it.
What happens to methylene chloride when it
enters the environment?
Q It evaporates very easily, so it's found mostly hi air.
Q More than 99 percent of the methylene chloride hi air
comes from industry and consumer products.
Q It doesn't stick to soil particles or dissolve in water, so
it moves from both soil and water to air.
Q Soil and water organisms break it down to simpler
compounds.
Q Some drinking water has been shown to contain small
amounts of methylene chloride.
Q Plants and aquatic organisms do not appear to store it.
How might I be exposed to methylene chloride?
Q Breathing workplace air where it is used
Q Breathing fumes from paint strippers that contain it
(check the label)
Q Breathing fumes from aerosol cans that use it (check
the label)
Q Breathing contaminated air near waste sites.
How can methylene chloride affect my health?
Methyle;ne chloride harms the human central nervous
system.
High levels in the air (nearly 1,000 times average
levels) may affect your ability to react fast, remain steady, or
perform tasks that require precise hand movements. If you
continue to breathe high levels, you may get:
Q dizziness
O nausea
Q tingling
Q numbness in the fingers and toes.
In mostcases, these effects wiU stop shortly after
exposure ends. In animals, however, very high
exposures have caused unconsciousness and death.
Exposure to lower levels of methylene chloride in air
can lead to slightly impaired hearing and vision. Many
Agency for Tojcic Substances and Disease Registry
-------
Page 2
METHYLENE
CHLORIDE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
people can smell methylene chloride at these lower levels.
However, people differ in their ability to smell methylene
chloride, so odors may not help you avoid an unwanted
exposure.
In humans, direct skin contact with methylene chloride
causes intense burning and mild redness of the skin. Direct
contact with the eyes can burn the cornea. In animals that
have been exposed to vapors or directly to methylene
chloride, the cornea was damaged. The damage healed
within a few days after the exposure ended.
How likely is methylene chloride to cause
cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
has determined that methylene chloride may reasonably be
anticipated to be a carcinogen. Methylene chloride has not
been shown to cause cancer hi humans exposed to vapors in
the workplace. However, breathing high concentrations of it
for long periods did increase the incidence of cancer in mice.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to methylene chloride?
Several tests measure exposure to methylene chloride.
These tests are not routinely available hi your doctor's office.
The most direct test measures methylene chloride in the
air you breathe out. Your blood can also be tested to
determine if methylene chloride is present. Since it stays in
the blood a very short time, you must have these tests soon
after exposure.
Doctors can also test urine for methylene chloride or for
chemicals such as formic acid that are produced as
methylene chloride breaks down in the body.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
requires that releases of methylene chloride of 1,000 pounds
or more be reported to the federal government. The EPA has
guidelines as to how much of this chemical you may be
exposed and for how long without harming your health.
EPA recommends that children not drink water that contains
more than 13.3 parts of methylene chloride per million parts
of water (13.3 ppm) for longer than 1 day or with more than
1.5 ppm for longer than 10 days.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has
established limits on how much methylene chloride can
remain in spice, hops extract, and decaffeinated coffee.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSBLA) proposes to reduce the current occupational
exposure limits to methylene chloride in air. The limit
would go from 500 ppm to 25 ppm for an 8-hour workday.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) currently recommends a permissible limit
of 75 ppm of methylene chloride in the air over a 10-hour
workday in the presence of carbon monoxide concentrations
less than or equal to 9.9 ppm.
Glossary
Carcinogen: Substance that can cause cancer.
PPM: Parts per million.
Cornea: The clear front part of the eye.
Propellant: The gas used in spray cans to force out the
contents of the can.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Toxicological profile for methylene
chloride. Atlanta: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1990. Case studies in environmental medicine:
Methylene chloride toxicity. Atlanta: U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact community or state health or
environmental quality departments if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333,
Phone: 404-639-6000.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
NAPHTHALENE
CAS # 91-20-3
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1996
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about naphthalene. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to ainy hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
£ * f ^" /?v \=%S\ & ^| XX N^
SIJMMARY: Expojsure to ifaphthaleiieliilppensmostly^from^atMng a|rxcontami-
nated from^the fiur^ing of woodrdr ifossil fuels, industrial dfsChar§es,>tob^cco^sinoJke,
What is naphthalene?
(Pronounced naf ths-len')
Naphthalene is a white solid that is found naturally in
fossil fuels. Burning tobacco or wood produces naphthalene.
It has a strong, but not unpleasant smell.
The major products made from naphthalene are moth
repellents. It is also used for making dyes, resins, leather,
tanning agents, and the insecticide, carbaryl.
What happens to naphthalene when it
enters the environment?
Q Naphthalene enters the environment from industrial uses,
and from its use as a moth repellent.
Q It also enters from the burning of wood or tobacco, and
from accidental spills.
Q Naphthalene evaporates easily.
D In air, moisture and sunlight break it down, often within
1 day.
D Naphthalene in water is destroyed by bacteria or evapo-
rates into the air.
Q Naphthalene binds weakly to soils and sediment.
Q It does not accumulate in animals or fish.
O If dairy cows are exposed to naphthalene, some of it will
be in their milk.
Q If laying hens are exposed, some of it will be in their
eggs.
How might I be exposed to naphthalene?
i
Q Breathing low levels in outdoor air.
Q Breathing air contaminated from industrial discharges or
from burning wood or fossil fuels.
Q Breathing air in homes or businesses where cigarettes
are smoked,;wood is burned, or moth repellents are used.
Q Drinking water from contaminated wells.
O Touching clothing, blankets, or coverlets that are treated
with naphthalene.
How can naphthalene affect my health?
Exposure to! large amounts of naphthalene may damage
or destroy some ,of your red blood cells. This could cause
you to have too few red blood cells until your body replaces
the destroyed cells. People, particularly children, have de-
veloped this problem after eating naphthalene-containing
mothballs or deodorant blocks. Some of the symptoms of
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SEJRVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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NAPHTHALENE
CAS # 91-20-3
Ar&DR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.g0v:8080/atsdrhbme.html
this problem are fatigue, lack of appetite, restlessness, and
pale skin. Exposure to large amounts of naphthalene may
also cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the urine, and
a yellow color to the skin.
Animals sometimes develop cloudiness in their eyes after
swallowing naphthalene. It is not clear if this also develops in
people.
When mice were repeatedly exposed to naphthalene
vapors for 2 years, their noses and lungs became inflamed and
irritated.
How likely is naphthalene to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS), the International Agency for Research on Cancer
(IARC) and the EPA have not classified naphthalene as to its
human carcinogenicity.
No studies are available in people. Naphthalene has
caused cancer in studies in female mice, but not in male mice
or in rats of either sex.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to naphthalene?
Tests are available that measure levels of naphthalene
and its breakdown products in urine, stool, blood, or maternal
milk. A small sample of your body fat can also be removed
and analyzed for naphthalene. These tests are not routinely
available in a doctor's office. However, a sample taken in a
doctor's office can be sent to a special laboratory, if needed.
These tests cannot determine exactly how much naphtha-
lene you were exposed to or predict whether harmful effects
will occur.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA recommends that children not drink water con-
taining over 0.5 parts of naphthalene per million parts of wa-
ter (0.5 ppm) for more than 10 days, or 0.4 ppm for longer
than 7 years. Adults should not drink water with more than
1 ppm for more than 7 years. For water consumed over a life-
time, the EPA suggests it contain no more than 0.02 ppm
naphthalene. The EPA requires that discharges or spills into
the environment of 100 pounds or more be reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a limit of 10 parts per million (10 ppm) for
the level of naphthalene in workplace air over an 8-hour
workday, 40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) considers more than 250 ppm of naphtha-
lene in air to be immediately dangerous to life or health. This
is the exposure level of a chemical that is likely to cause
permanent health problems or death.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability of a substance to cause cancer.
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service.
Insecticide: A substance that kills insects.
Sediment: Mud and debris that have settled to the bottom of a
body of water.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
1995. Toxicological profile for naphthalene, 1-methylnaphtha-
lene, and 2-methylnaphthalene (Update). Atlanta, GA: U.S. De-
partment of Health and Human Services, Public Health Services.
Where can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology 1600
Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315. ATSDR Internet'home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recyided Paper
-------
TSDR
NICKEL
CAS# 7440-02-0
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) aboutnickel. For more information,
call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information because this
substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration,
how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
What is nickel?
(Pronounced nlk'sl)
Nickel is a very abundant element. In the environment, it
is found primarily combined with oxygen (oxides) or sulfur
(sulfides). It is found in all soils and is emitted from volcanos.
Pure nickel is a hard, silvery-white metal that is combined
with other metals to form mixtures called alloys. Some of the
metals that nickel can be alloyed with are iron, copper, chro-
mium, and zinc. These alloys are used in the making of metal
coins and jewelry and in industry for making metal items.
Nickel compounds are also used for nickel plating, to
color ceramics, to make some batteries, and as substances
known as catalysts that increase the rate of chemical reactions.
Nickel and its compounds have no characteristic odor or taste.
What happens to nickel when it enters the
environment?
Q Small nickel particles in the air settle to the ground or are
taken out of the air in rain.
Q Much of the nickel in the environment is found with soil
and sediments because nickel attaches to particles that
contain iron or manganese, which are often present in soil
and sediments.
Q Nickel does not appear to collect in fish, plants, or ani-
mals used for food.
How might I be exposed to nickel?
Q By breathing air or smoking tobacco containing nickel
Q By eating food containing nickel, which is the major
source of exposure for most people
Q By drinking water which contains small amounts of
nickel
Q By handling coins and touching other metals containing
nickel, such as jewelry
How can nickel affect my health?
Nickel is required to maintain health in animals. A
small amount of nickel is probably essential for humans,
although a lack of nickel has not been found to affect the
health of humans.
The most common adverse health effect of nickel in hu-
mans is an allergic reaction. People can become sensitive to
nickel when jewelry or other things containing it are in direct
contact with the1 skin. Once a person is sensitized to nickel,
further contact with it will produce a reaction. The most com-
mon reaction is a skin rash at the site of contact.
Less frequently, some people who are sensitive to nickel
have asthma attacks following exposure to nickel. People who
are sensitive to nickel have reactions when it is in contact with
the skin, and some sensitized persons react when they eat
nickel in food, drink it in water, or breathe dust containing it.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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NICKEL
CAS# 7440-02-0
FoxFAQs Internet address via WWW ib http://atsdrl.atsdncdc.gL:8080/TbxFAO.htmI
Lung effects, including chronic bronchitis and reduced
lung function, have been observed in workers who breathed
large amounts of nickel. Current levels of nickel in work-
place air are much lower than in the past, and today few
workers show symptoms of nickel exposure.
People who are not sensitive to it must eat very large
amounts of nickel to show adverse health effects. Workers
who accidently drank water containing very high levels of
nickel (100,000 times more than in normal drinking water)
had stomachaches and effects on their blood and kidneys.
Animal studies show that breathing high levels of nickel
compounds may result in inflammation of the respiratory
tract. Eating or drinking large amounts of nickel has been
reported to cause lung disease in dogs and rats and to affect
the stomach, blood, liver, kidneys, immune system, and repro-
duction and development in rats and mice.
How likely is nickel to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that nickel and certain nickel com-
pounds may reasonably be anticipated to be carcinogens.
Cancers of the lung and nasal sinus have resulted when work-
ers breathed dust containing high levels of nickel compounds
while working in nickel refineries or nickel processing plants.
When rats and mice breathed nickel compounds for a life-
time, nickel compounds that were hard to dissolve caused can-
cer, while a soluble nickel compound did not cause cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to nickel?
Measurements of the amount of nickel in your blood,
feces, and urine can be used to estimate your exposure to
nickel. These measurements are most useful if the type of
nickel compound you have been exposed to is known. How-
ever, these tests cannot predict whether you will experience
any health effects.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA recommends that children drink water contain-
ing no more than 0.04 milligrams of nickel per liter of water
(0.04 mg/L) for 1-10 days of exposure.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an occupational exposure limit of 1 milli-
gram of nickel per cubic meter of air (1 mg/m3) for an 8-hour
workday, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance with the ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Sediments: Mud and debris that have settled to the bottom of
a body of water
Soluble: Dissolves in water
Source of Information
This ToxFAQs information is taken from the 1997 Toxi-
cological Profile for Nickel (update) produced by the Agency
for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Public Health
Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Public Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone- 1-800-
ISii ' FAX: 404-639-6359- ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is httP://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/ToxFAQ html
AIJ>DR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize evalu-
ate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state
health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Pros
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-------
JSDR
N-NITROSODIPHENYLAMINE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about N-nitrosodiphenylamine.
For more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries
about hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this
substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose,
the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are
present.
SUMMARY: The general population and people in the workplace are probably not
exposed to N-nitrosodiphenylamine. People living near hazardous waste sites may,
however, be exposed to A^-nitrosodiphenylamine by drinking contaminated water or by
touching or breathing contaminated soil and dust. Limited animal studies suggest that
^nitrosp(Up)ienylamine can damage the bladder and kidneys. It has been found in at
least 172 of 1,300 National Priorities List sites identified by the Environmental
Protection Agency. , -;. •••"• '-• • . '•- .•::::,•
What is N-nitrosodiphenylamine?
(Pronounced ni - tro" so - di - fen" il - ah - men')
N-Nitxosodiphenylamine is an industrial compound. It
is an orange-brown or yellow solid that has been produced
since 1945. It is used to make rubber products such as
tires or to make other chemicals.
In the early 1980s, most U.S. rubber manufacturers
replaced it with more efficient chemicals. Today, only
one manufacturer in the United States produces
JV-nitrosodiphenylamine. We do not know if it occurs
naturally in the environment. There is some evidence that
microorganisms make it.
What happens to Af-nitrosodiphenylamme
when it enters the environment?
O It evaporates slowly to the air or leaks into the ground
from waste sites.
O In air, Af-nitrosodiphenylamine attaches to dust
particles and can move with the wind.
O It dissolves in water, but it binds to soil and does not
move quickly through soil.
O It breaks down in air, water, and soil within several
weeks.;
D We don't know what the breakdown substances are in
humans or whether they are harmful to you.
D We don't find it in our normal drinking water, foods, or
air.
D Water organisms take some into their bodies, but they
don't appear to build up high levels.
D We don't know 'if land animals or plants take it up and
store it in their bodies.
How might I be exposed to
AT-nitrosbdiphenylamine?
O The likelihood of exposure is very low.
O Exposure in the workplace is not likely (only one
company makes it today).
O Drinking water near hazardous waste sites may be
contaminated.
D Touching or breathing contaminated waste or soils near
hazardous waste sites may result in higher exposures
Agency for Tdxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
N-NITROSODIPHENYLAMINE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
April 1993
K1'*"' ! ..... '" ! ' "Wii!"!' :
V i" 1i|B*!lilli ¥:! ......
How can W-nitrosodiphenylamine affect my
health?
There is very little information on the effects of
W-nitrosodiphenylamine on human health. There is also
not enough information from animal studies to estimate
how exposure to it will affect your health.
Animal studies have identified levels and exposures
that can cause death. Animals given high levels of
AT-nitrosodiphenylamine in their diets for long periods of
time developed swelling, cancer of the bladder, and
changes in body weight. We don't know if these effects
would occur in humans. We also don't know if it can
affect pregnancy or cause birth defects.
How likely is N-nitrosodiphenylamine to
cause cancer?
The Environmental Protection Agency has determined
that //-nitrosodiphenylamine is a probable human
carcinogen. This is based on a long-term study in rats
showing an increase in bladder cancer in the group
exposed to high levels of//-nitrosodiphenylamine. There
is no evidence that it causes bladder cancer in people.
Although EPA has classified W-nitrosodiphenylamine
as a probable carcinogen, the animal data are limited.
Other public health agencies have concluded that no
evaluation of//-nitrosodiphenylarnine's carcinogenicity in
people is currently possible. Additional research is
needed.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to N-nitrosodiphenylamine?
No tests are available to determine if you have been
exposed to N-nitrosodiphenylamine. There are tests to
detect W-nitrosodiphenylamine and its breakdown products
in the blood and urine of exposed animals, but these tests
have not been used for people.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
recommends limits on how much A^nitrosodiphenylamine
can be present in bodies of water such as lakes and rivers.
The recommended levels are 49,000 nanograms or less of
AT-nitrosodiphenylamine per liter of water (49,000 ng/L).
One nanogram is one billionth of a gram. At this level,
EPA estimates that your risk of getting cancer is very low.
For drinking water, the EPA sets a limit of 700
micrograms or less of W-nitrosodiphenylamine per liter of
drinking water (700 ng/L). One microgram is one
millionth of a gram. A^-nitrosodiphenylamine is also
considered to be a hazardous waste; and the EPA requires
industry to immediately report a spill of more than 100
pounds to the National Response Center of the federal
government.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer.
Ingestion: Taking food or drink into your body.
Microgram (ug): One millionth of a gram.
Nanogram (ng): One billionth of a gram.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1993. Toxicological profile for
A^-nitrosodiphenylamine. Atlanta: U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate,
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333,
Phone: 404-639-6000.
Federal Recycling Program
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-------
-ATSDR
PENTACHLOROPHENOL
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about pentachlorophenol. For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present
SUMMARY:'/'Exposure to pntachlorqpheitbl^appens Mostly to workers at,
lumber mills fttdwood-treatment^faeilties whereat reused ais a wood
preservative. Pentathlorpphenof ran harm the livery kidneys, blood, lungs, .„>
nervous system, immune system, and gastrointestinal tract. It can also irritate
the skin and eyes. This chemical has been found in at least 260 of 1,416/National
Priorities List sites identified by the Environmental Pr6tection:Agency.
What is pentachlorophenol?
(Pronounced pen'ts klor/ 5 fe' nol)
Pentachlorophenol is a manufactured chemical not found
naturally in the environment. Pure pentachlorophenol occurs
as a colorless crystal. The impure form is dark gray to brown
dust, beads, or flakes. It has a sharp chemical odor when hot,
but very little smell at room temperature.
Pentachlorophenol was used as a biocide and wood
preservative. It was one of the most heavily used pesticides in
the United States. Now, only certified applicators can pur-
chase and use pentachlorophenol.
It is still used in industry, as a wood preservative for
power line poles, railroad ties, cross arms, and fence posts. It
is no longer found in wood preserving solutions or insecticides
and herbicides that you can buy for home and garden use.
What happens to pentachlorophenol when it
enters the environment?
Q Pentachlorophenol generally sticks to soil particles, but its
movement in soils depends on the soil's acidity.
Q Not much pentachlorophenol will evaporate into the air.
D It lasts for hours or days in air, soils, and surface waters.
Q It doesn't dissolve easily in water.
Q In soils and surface waters, microorganisms break it
down into other compounds.
Q Sunlight breaks it down in surface waters and air.
Q Some of the break-down compounds may harm people.
Q It is present in fish, but, tissue levels are usually low
because pentachlorophenol breaks down in the body.
How might I be exposed to pentachloro-
phenol? ;
Q Breathing contaminated air while working with treated
wood at wood-treatment facilities and lumber mills
Q Touching treated lumber, for example, in wood-treat-
ment facilities and lumber mills or in construction or
farming
Q Breathing contaminated air from log homes made from
pentachlorbphenol-treated logs
Q Breathing contaminated air near waste sites, sites of
accidental 'spills, and work sites
Q Touching contaminated soil at waste sites and landfills
Q Drinking contaminated water near waste sites, sites of
accidental spills, and work sites
Q Eating contaminated food, such as fish, or drinking
contaminaited water, but these exposures are low and are
not very common.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SjERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Tclxic Substances and Disease Registry
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PENTACHLOROPHENOL
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
How can pentachlorophenol affect my
health?
Short-term exposures to large amounts of pentachlo-
rophenol or long-term exposure to low levels can harm the
liver, kidneys, blood, lungs, nervous system, immune system,
and gastrointestinal tract. Researchers have seen similar
effects in animals. Impurities in commercial pentachlorophe-
nol may cause many, but not all, of its harmful effects.
Direct contact with pentachlorophenol can irritate the skin,
eyes, and mouth, particularly when it is a hot vapor.
We do not know whether pentachlorophenol causes birth
defects in people. It caused a decrease in the number of
offspring born to animals that were exposed to it while they
were pregnant.
How likely is pentachlorophenol to cause
cancer?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has
determined that pentachlorophenol is possibly carcinogenic
to humans. This conclusion is based on animal studies that
showed an increased risk of cancer, specifically in the livers
and adrenal glands of mice. There is no good evidence that
pentachlorophenol can cause cancer in people.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to pentachlorophenol?
Laboratory tests can measure pentachlorophenol in the
blood, urine, and body tissues. These tests are only useful
shortly after you are exposed because pentachlorophenol
leaves the body fairly quickly.
These tests do not tell you how much pentachlorophenol
you've been exposed to or if your health will be harmed. The
tests are not routinely available at your doctor's office.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a
limit for drinking water of 1 part of pentachlorophenol per
billion parts of water (1 ppb). EPA recommends that
children not drink water containing more than 0.3 parts of
pentachlorophenol per million parts of water (0.3 ppm) for
longer than one day; adults should not drink water with
more than 1 ppm. The EPA requires that spills and acciden-
tal releases of pentachlorophenol into the environment of
10 pounds or more must be reported to the EPA.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA), the National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH), and the American Conference of
Governmental and Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
recommend a maximum level of 0.5 milligrams of pen-
tachlorophenol per cubic meter (0.5 mg/m3) of workplace air
for an 8-hour workday over a 40-hour workweek. These
agencies advise avoiding eye and skin contact because this
may be a route of significant exposure.
Glossary
Biocide: A substance that can kill living things
Carcinogenic: Ability to cause cancer
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Short-term: Lasting 14 days or less
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for pentachlorophe-
nol (update). Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate
envimntiTnf iT^ f^ T*^ * hazsrdous ^tences. You can also contact your community or state health or'
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
SSL? -a^of Toxicology> 160°clifton Road m Maiistop E-29- Atianta>
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-------
-ATSDR
PHENOL
CAS # 108-95-2
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs|
June 1999
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about phenol. For more information,
call the ATSDR information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact shefet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information because this
substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration,
how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other 'chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS^ Phenol is a manufactured substance found in a number of
consumer products. Skin exposure to high levels ofphenol has resulted in liver
damage, diarrhea, dark urine, and hemolytic anemia. Phenol has been found
in at least 481 of the 1,467 National Priorities List sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
What is phenol?
(Pronounced ft' nol')
Phenol is a manufactured substance. It is a colorless-to-
white solid when pure. The commercial product is a liquid. It
has sickeningly sweet and tarry odor.
You can taste and smell it at levels lower than those that
are associated with harmful effects. Phenol evaporates more
slowly than water, and a moderate amount can form a solution
with water. Phenol can catch fire.
Phenol is used primarily in the formation of phenolic
resins. It is also used in the manufacture of nylon and other
synthetic fibers. It is also used in slimicides (chemicals that
kill bacteria and fungi in slimes), as a disinfectant, as an anti-
septic, and in medicinal preparations, such as mouthwash and
sore throat lozenges.
What happens to phenol when it enters tie
environment?
Q Following small, single releases, phenol does not remain
in the air long (generally, half is removed from the air in
less than a day).
Q It generally remains in the soil only about 2 to 5 days.
Q It can remain in water for longer than 9 days.
Q Larger or repeated releases can remain in the air, water and
soil for much longer periods of time.
Q Small amounts of phenol may be found in organisms that
live in contaminated water.
How might I be exposed to phenol?
Q You may be exposed to phenol if you work with or manu-
facture it. •
Q You may be exposed to very low levels in your home
because it is found in a number of products, including
some medicines, lotions, and ointments.
Q Low levels of phenol are found in some foods, including
smoked summer sausage, fried chicken, mountain cheese,
and some species of fish.
Q Phenol enters the lungs when you inhale tobacco smoke.
Q It can be priesent in low levels in air and drinking water.
How can phenol affect my health? ^
In people, the effects of breathing phenol in air are not
known. People who had skin exposure to high levels had
liver damage, diarrhea, dark urine, and hemolytic anemia.
In animals, breathing air with high levels of phenol re-
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
PHENOL
CAS # 108-95-2
loxI'AQs Internet address via W\yw is http://www.atsdr.cdi.gov/toxfaq.hthil
'! illi,', "lull"1.!,, k"
HHT
suited in irritation of the lungs. Repeated exposures led to
muscle tremors and loss of coordination. Exposure to high
levels of phenol for several weeks caused paralysis and severe
injury to the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs, and in some
cases, death.
Phenol can have beneficial effects when used medically
as an antiseptic or anesthetic
How likely is phenol to cause cancer?
It is not known if phenol causes cancer in people. Cancer
occured in mice when phenol was applied to the skin several
times each week for the lifetime of the animal. Phenol did not
cause cancer in mice or rats when they drank water containing
it for 2 years. The International Agency for Research on Can-
cer (IARC) has determined that phenol is not classifiable as to
its carcinogenicity to humans.
How can phenol affect children?
Children are exposed to phenol in the same way adults
are. Children are at greater risk of accidently ingesting home
products that contain phenol. The effects of exposure to phe-
nol on the human fetus are not known. Pregnant animals that
drank water containing high concentrations of phenol gave
birth to babies that had low birth weights and minor birth de-
fects.
How can families reduce the risk of exposure to
phenol?
If your doctor finds that you have been exposed to high
levels of phenol, ask if children may also be exposed. Your
doctor may need to ask your state department of health to in-
vestigate.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've been
exposed to phenol?
There is a urine test that can tell if you have been exposed
to phenol recently (within 1 or 2 days). However, the test can-
not tell if you were exposed only to phenol since many sub-
stances are converted to phenol in the body.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
EPA has a lifetime health advisory for adults for phenol in
drinking water of 4 milligrams per liter (4 mg/L). EPA also
recommends that the level of phenol in surface water (lakes,
streams) should be limited to 3.5 mg/L to protect people from
drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated fish.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a limit of 5 parts per million (5 ppm) for work-
ers during an 8-hour workshift in a 40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH) recommends that workroom air be limited to 5 ppm
over a 10-hour workday and that concentrations should not
exceed 16 ppm during a 15-minute period.
Source of information
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Register
(ATSDR). 1998. Toxicological Profile for Phenol. Atlanta:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health
Service.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
^St^'^iVlSi0n0fTOXiCOl0gy' 1600CliftonR°adNE, MailstopE-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-888-422-8737
FAX: 404-639-6359. ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaq.html ATSDR can tell you
where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses
resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or environmental
quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
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-ATSDR
POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS
(PCBs)
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs;
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCBs) . For more information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is
one in a series of summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand
this information because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance
depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals
are present.
IrttGHLIGllTS: Polychloiroatedlip%nyl%4kniixturil otindiyidual cheniicals **
Which are 110 longer proved;Vth| United Slates^jbiit are still found in the
enviroiiment. PolyeW^ of the nose^dlhroait, ^
'~ and acne and rashes. They have?been shown t^caBkcance^ in Animal studies.
polychlorinatedUpti&nyUhwe^&nfounfr&Mi leasf383 ojttne.1,430 National
- Priorities List sites identified, by the^Envir^nmen^l*Pjrbte1ction Agency (
••f ^s j/' . %/ (^ .s & .^/* y> **• ^ & ^ * "^..^ ^ .. > "^
What are polychlorinated biphenyls?
(Pronounced pol'e-kl6r/3-nat id' bl-fe/ndlz')
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of manufac-
tured organic chemicals that contain 209 individual chlorinated
chemicals (known as congeners). PCBs are either oily liquids
or solids and are colorless to light yellow in color. They have
no known smell or taste. There are no known natural sources of
PCBs. Some commercial PCB mixtures are known in the
United States by their industrial trade name, Aroclor.
PCBs don't burn easily and are good insulating material.
They have been used widely as coolants and lubricants in
transformers, capacitors, and other electrical equipment. The
manufacture of PCBs stopped in the United States in 1977
because of evidence that they build up in the environment and
cause harmful effects. Products containing PCBs are old fluo-
rescent lighting fixtures, electrical appliances containing PCB
capacitors, old microscope oil, and hydraulic fluids.
What happens to PCBs when they enter the
environment?
Q Before 1977, PCBs entered the air, water, and soil during
their manufacture and use.
Q Today, PCBs can be released into the environment from
hazardous waste sites that contain PCBs, illegal or im-
proper dumping of PCB wastes, and leaks from electrical
transformers containing PCBs.
Q PCBs may>e carried long distances in the air, they re-
main in the air for approximately 10 days.
O In water, a small amount of the PCBs may remain dis-
solved, but most sticks to organic particles and sedi-
ments.
Q PCBs in water build up in fish and marine mammals and
can reach levels thousands of times higher than the levels
in water. .
How might I be exposed to PCBs?
a Using old fluorescent lighting fixtures and old appliances
such as television sets and refrigerators; these may leak
small amo'unts of PCBs into the air when they get hot
during operation
Q Eating food, including fish, meat and dairy products con-
taining PCBs
Q Breathing air near hazardous waste sites that contain
PCBs
a
a
Drinking PCB-contaminated well water
Repairing or maintaining PCB transformers
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN CERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and IJHsease Registry
-------
Page 2
POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS
(PCBs)
_: • ! ; ::„;,.; .: >r.j *:,!,,: J,Su",":,. i , •" .!",- -. ".," > !„",- ', / „,
/ToxFAQ.html
How can PCBs affect my health?
People exposed to PCBs in the air for a long time have
experienced irritation of the nose and lungs, and skin irrita-
tions, such as acne and rashes.
It is not known whether PCBs may cause birth defects or
reproductive problems in people. Some studies have shown
that babies born to women who consumed PCB-contaminated
fish had problems with their nervous systems at birth. How-
ever, it is not known whether these problems were definitely
due to PCBs or other chemicals.
Animals that breathed very high levels of PCBs had liver
and kidney damage, while animals that ate food with large
amounts of PCBs had mild liver damage. Animals that ate
food with smaller amounts of PCBs had liver, stomach, and
thyroid gland injuries, and anemia, acne, and problems with
their reproductive systems. Skin exposure to PCBs in animals
resulted in liver, kidney, and skin damage.
How likely are PCBs to cause cancer?
It is not known whether PCBs causes cancer in people. In
a long-term (365 days or longer) study, PCBs caused cancer
of the liver in rats that ate certain PCB mixtures.
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that PCBs may reasonably be antici-
pated to be carcinogens.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to PCBs?
There are tests to find out if PCBs are in your blood,
body fat, and breast milk. Blood tests are probably the easiest,
safest, and best method for detecting recent exposures to large
amounts of PCBs.
However, since all people in the industrial countries have
some PCBs in their bodies, these tests can only show if you
have been exposed to higher-than-background levels of PCBs.
However, these measurements cannot determine the exact
amount or type of PCBs you have been exposed to or how
long you have been exposed. In addition, they cannot predict
whether you will experience any harmful health effects.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level of
0.0005 milligrams PCBs per liter of drinking water (0.0005
mg/L). The EPA requires that spills or accidental releases
into the environment of 1 pound or more of PCBs be re-
ported to the EPA.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that
milk, eggs, other dairy products, poultry fat, fish, shellfish,
and infant foods contain not more that 0.2-3 parts of PCBs
per million parts (0.2-3 ppm) of food.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance with the ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
PPM: Parts per million
Source of Information
: I :
This ToxFAQs information is taken from the 1997 Toxico-
logical Profile for Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (update)
produced by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry, Public Health Service, U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services, Public Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and
^ 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333 Pho?e !8S
9- ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/ToXFAOhtml
nd T ,? f"Vd °CCUPationaI and environmental health clinics. Their specialist* can ««S^
ate and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community ostote
health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns community or state
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC
HYDROCARBONS (PAHs)
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1996
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons. For more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because
this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose,
the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
;bj^fWjp^iaj^^
What are polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons?
(Pronounced p61'i-s!'klik ar's-mat'ik hl'clrs-
kar'bsnz)
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of
over 100 different chemicals that are formed during the
incomplete burning of coal, oil and gas, garbage, or other
organic substances like tobacco or charbroiled meat. PAHs
are usually found as a mixture containing two or more of
these compounds, such as soot.
Some PAHs are manufactured. These pure PAHs usually
exist as colorless, white, or pale yellow-green solids. PAHs
are found in coal tar, crude oil, creosote, and roofing tar, but
a few are used in medicines or to make dyes, plastics, and
pesticides.
What happens to PAHs when they enter the
environment?
Q PAHs enter the air mostly as releases from volcanoes,
forest fires, burning coal, and automobile exhaust.
Q PAHs can occur in air attached to dust particles.
Q Some PAH particles can readily evaporate into the air
from soil or surface waters.
PAHs can break down by reacting with sunlight and other
chemicals in the air, over a period of days to weeks.
PAHs enter water through discharges from industrial and
wastewater 'treatment plants.
Most PAHs do not dissolve easily in water. They stick to
solid particles and settle to the bottoms of lakes or rivers.
Microorganisms can break down PAHs in soil or water
after a period of weeks to months.
In soils, PAHs are most likely to stick tightly to particles;
certain PAlis move through soil to contaminate under-
ground water.
PAH contents of plants and animals may be much higher
than PAH contents of soil or water in which they live.
How might I be exposed to PAHs?
Q Breathing air containing PAHs in the workplace of
coking, coal-tar, and asphalt production plants; smoke-
houses; and municipal trash incineration facilities.
Q Breathing air containing PAHs from cigarette smoke,
wood smoke, vehicle exhausts, asphalt roads, or agricul-
tural burn smoke.
O Coming in; contact with air, water, or soil near hazardous
waste sites.
Q Eating grilled or charred meats; contaminated cereals,
flour, bread, vegetables, fruits, meats; and processed or
pickled foods.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
-------
Page 2
POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC
HYDROCARBONS (PAHs)
Q
O
Drinking contaminated water or cow's milk.
Nursing infants of mothers living near hazardous waste
sites may be exposed to PAHs through their mother's
milk.
How can PAHs affect my health?
Mice that were fed high levels of one PAH during
pregnancy had difficulty reproducing and so did their off-
spring. These offspring also had higher rates of birth defects
and lower body weights. It is not known whether these effects
occur in people.
Animal studies have also shown that PAHs can cause
harmful effects on the skin, body fluids, and ability to fight
disease after both short- and long-term exposure. But these
effects have not been seen in people.
How likely are PAHs to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has detennined that some PAHs may reasonably be
expected to be carcinogens.
Some people who have breathed or touched mixtures of
PAHs and other chemicals for long periods of time have
developed cancer. Some PAHs have caused cancer in
laboratory animals when they breathed air containing them
(lung cancer), ingested them in food (stomach cancer), or
had them applied to their skin (skin cancer).
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to PAHs?
In the body, PAHs are changed into chemicals that can
attach to substances within the body. There are special tests
that can detect PAHs attached to these substances in body
tissues or blood. However, these tests cannot tell whether any
health effects will occur or find out the extent or source of
your exposure to the PAHs. The tests aren't usually available
in your doctor's office because special equipment is needed to
conduct them.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a limit of 0.2 milligrams of PAHs per cubic
meter of air (0.2 mg/m3). The OSHA Permissible Exposure
Limit (PEL) for mineral oil mist that contains PAHs is
5 mg/m3 averaged over an 8-hour exposure period.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) recommends that the average workplace air
levels for coal tar products not exceed 0.1 mg/m3 for a
10-hour workday, within a 40-hour workweek. There are
other limits for workplace exposure for things that contain
PAHs, such as coal, coal tar, and mineral oil.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance that can cause cancer.
Ingest: Take food or drink into your body.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
1995. Toxicological profile for polycyclic aromatic hydrocar-
bons. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
r JE? ^t formation? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registiy, Division of Toxicology "600
°" R±™' MuailSt°P E'29' Atlant3' GA 3°333' Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: '
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/atsdrhome html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
STYRENE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about styrene. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to styrene is. most likely tooccur from ^breathing indoor air
that is £ontaniinated with styrjene/vapors from building materials, .tobacco smoke;
and consumer products. People wMo^work Jwhere styrene is used or manufactured
are likely to be exposed by breathkg workplace air. Breathing/styrene is most
likely to affect tne, nervous system, Styrene has-been found in at least 213 of 1,416
National Priorities List sites ideniffiedfby the Environmental Protection Agency.
What is styrene?
(Pronounced stl'ren)
Styrene is primarily a synthetic chemical. It is also
known as vinylbenzene, ethenylbenzene, cinnamene, or
phenylethylene. It's a colorless liquid that evaporates easily
and has a sweet smell. It often contains other chemicals that
give it a sharp, unpleasant smell.
It dissolves in some liquids but doesn't dissolve easily in
water. Billions of pounds are produced each year to make
products such as rubber, plastic, insulation, fiberglass, pipes,
automobile parts, food containers, and carpet backing.
Most of these products contain styrene linked together in
a long chain (polystyrene) as well as unlinked styrene. Low
levels of styrene also occur naturally in a variety of foods such
as fruits, vegetables, nuts, beverages, and meats.
What happens to styrene when it enters the
environment?
Q Styrene. enters the environment during the manufacture,
use, and disposal of styrene-based products. It can be
found in air, water, and soil.
Q It is quickly broken down in the air, usually within 1 to 2
days.
Q It evaporates from shallow soils and surface water.
Q It doesn't stick easily to soils and sediments.
Q It's broken down by bacteria in the soil and water.
Q It's not expected to build up in animals.
Q Styrene breaks down to half the amount within a few
days in surface water; in groundwater, however, it takes
between 6 weeks and 7.5 months.
How might I: be exposed to styrene?
Q Breathing indoor air that is contaminated with styrene
vapors from building materials, consumer products, and
tobacco smoke
Q Breathing contaminated workplace air
Q Drinking contaminated water
Q Living near industrial facilities or hazardous waste sites
Q Smoking cigarettes or eating a lot of food packaged in
polystyrene containers.
How can styrene affect my health?
If you breathe high levels of styrene for a short time,
you're most likely to experience nervous system effects such
as depression, concentration problems, muscle weakness,
tiredness, and nausea, and possibly eye, nose, and throat
irritation.
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
-------
Page 2
STYRENE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
When animals breathed styrene vapors in short-term
studies, they damaged the lining of their noses. Long-term
exposure damaged their livers, but there is no evidence that
this will occur in people because there is no information on
human health effects of breathing low levels for a long time.
There is also little information on human health effects
from swallowing or touching styrene. Animal studies show
that ingestion of high levels of styrene over several weeks
can cause damage to the liver, kidneys, brain, and lungs.
When styrene was applied to the skin of rabbits, it caused
irritation.
There is no information as to whether breathing,
ingesting, or touching styrene affects fetal development or
human reproduction. In animal studies, short-term exposure
to very high levels resulted in some reproductive and
developmental effects.
How likely is styrene to cause cancer?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has
determined that styrene is possibly carcinogenic to humans.
Several studies of workers have shown that breathing
styrene may cause leukemia. There is no information on the
carcinogenicity of styrene in people who swallow it or get it
on their skin. Studies in animals that breathed or swallowed
styrene suggest that it is weakly carcinogenic.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to styrene?
Styrene and its breakdown products can be measured in
your blood, urine, and body tissues. Styrene leaves your
body quickly. If you are tested within one day, the actual
amount of exposure can be estimated. However, it is difficult
to predict if the exposure will affect your health.
The test for styrene and its breakdown products requires
special methods and equipment and is not usually available at
your doctor's office. Your doctor can take samples and send
them to a testing laboratory.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
determined that 0.1 part of styrene per million parts of water
(0.1 ppm) is the maximum amount that may be present in
drinking water. The EPA also requires that spills or acciden-
tal releases into the environment of 1,000 pounds or more of
styrene be reported.
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration
(OSHA) has limited workers' exposure to an average of
100 ppm for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance that can cause cancer
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
Leukemia: Cancer of the blood-forming tissues
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
Polystyrene: A long chain of styrene molecules joined
together
Short-term: Lasting 14 days or less
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for styrene. Atlanta,
GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize evaluate
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road ME, Mailstop E-29 Atlanta GA 30333
Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315. '
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
CAS# 127-18-4
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQs
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about tetrachloroethylene. For
more information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is one in a series
of summaries about hazardous substances auad their health effects. It's important you understand this
information because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance
depend on the dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other
chemicals are present.
-—^^ ____Mfc,_., xX^_ „, ,^ i^a"'manuf^cturedchemicarusel|of£dry'
rcleanitti and mejtal degfeasing.^Expbsure to very high concentrations of
v*~ ^ - \ **, ,^^s! ^v-*- ° ? "<~ ^'•A- ,s *y? " '" *V? ^ i- >" ' '•
tetrachloroethylene can cause dizziness, headaches, sleepiness, confusion, nausea,
difficulty in Speaking and walking^ unconfciousnefe ,and Heath
v s* =• * . , <<•«* ^ *-* . ** *? ^^ *rr . , .^*x /* **• £~ * .j.^.
rjichlogoethylene lias been fdunid in at east 771,of he 1,430 National Priorities^
entifietf by the Envfronmentarfrolectioii^sgency' (EPS)./ ;.' /<
What is tetrachloroethylene?
(Pronounced tet'rs-klor/ o-eth's-len')
Tetrachloroethylene is a manufactured chemical that is
widely used for dry cleaning of fabrics and for metal-degreas-
ing. It is also used to make other chemicals and is used in
some consumer products.
Other names for tetrachloroethylene include perchloroeth-
ylene, PCE, and tetrachloroethene. It is a nonflammable liq-
uid at room temperature. It evaporates easily into the air and
has a sharp, sweet odor. Most people can smell tetrachloro-
ethylene when it is present in the air at a level of 1 part tetra-
chloroethylene per million parts of air (1 ppm) or more, al-
though some can smell it at even lower levels.
What happens to tetrachloroethylene when it
enters the environment?
Q Much of the tetrachloroethylene that gets into water or
soil evaporates into the air.
Q Microorganisms can break down some of the tetrachloro-
ethylene in soil or underground water.
Q In the air, it is broken down by sunlight into other chemi-
cals or brought back to the soil and water by rain.
Q It does not appear to collect in fish or other animals that
live in water.
How might I jbe exposed to tetrachloroethylene?
Q When you brjng clothes from the dry cleaners, they will
release small, amounts of tetrachloroethylene into the air.
G When you drink water, containing tetrachloroethylene, you
are exposed to it.
How can tetrachloroethylene affect my health?
High concentrations of tetrachloroethylene (particularly in
closed, poorly ventilated areas) can cause dizziness, headache,
sleepiness, confusion, nausea, difficulty in speaking and walk-
ing, unconsciousness, and death.
Irritation may result from repeated or extended skin con-
tact with it. These symptoms occur almost entirely in work
(or hobby) environments when people have been accidentally
exposed to high concentrations or have intentionally used
tetrachloroethylene to get a "high."
In industry, most workers are exposed to levels lower than
those causing obvious nervous system effects. The health
effects of breathing in air or drinking water with low levels of
tetrachloroethylene are not known.
Results from some studies suggest that women who work
in dry cleaning industries where exposures to tetrachloroethyl-
ene can be quite high may have more menstrual problems and
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agencv for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
-------
Page 2
TETRACHLOROETHYLENE
CAS# 127-18-4
Toxl'AQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdncdc.dov:8080/lbxFAb.html
spontaneous abortions than women who are not exposed.
However, it is not known if tetrachloroethylene was respon-
sible for these problems because other possible causes were
not considered.
Results of animal studies, conducted with amounts much
higher than those that most people are exposed to, show that
tetrachloroethylene can cause liver and kidney damage. Ex-
posure to very high levels of tetrachloroethylene can be toxic
to the unborn pups of pregnant rats and mice. Changes in
behavior were observed in the offspring of rats that breathed
high levels of the chemical while they were pregnant.
How likely is tetrachloroethylene to cause
cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that tetrachloroethylene may reason-
ably be anticipated to be a carcinogen. Tetrachloroethylene
has been shown to cause liver tumors in mice and kidney
tumors in male rats.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to tetrachloroethylene?
One way of testing for tetrachloroethylene exposure is to
measure the amount of the chemical in the breath, much the
same way breath-alcohol measurements are used to determine
the amount of alcohol in the blood.
Because it is stored in the body's fat and slowly released
into the bloodstream, tetrachloroethylene can be detected in
the breath for weeks following a heavy exposure.
Tetrachloroethylene and trichloroacetic acid (TCA), a
breakdown product of tetrachloroethylene,.can be detected in
the blood. These tests are relatively simple to perform. These
tests aren't available at most doctors' offices, but can be per-
formed at special laboratories that have the right equipment.
Because exposure to other chemicals can produce the
same breakdown products in the urine and blood, the tests for
breakdown products cannot determine if you have been ex-
posed to tetrachloroethylene or the other chemicals.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA maximum contaminant level for the amount of
tetrachloroethylene that can be in drinking water is 0.005 mil-
ligrams tetrachloroethylene per liter of water (0.005 mg/L).
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a limit of 100 ppm for an 8-hour workday
over a 40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) recommends that tetrachloroethylene be
handled as a potential carcinogen and recommends that levels
in workplace air should be as low as possible.
Glossary
Carcinogen: A substance with the ability to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Nonflammable: Will not burn
Source of Information
This ToxFAQs information is taken from the 1997 Toxi-
cological Profile for Tetrachloroethylene (update) produced
by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry,
Public Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-800-
447-1544, FAX: 404-639-6359. ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/ToxFAQ.html
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evalu-
ate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state
health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
THALLIUM
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about thallium. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal tr aits and habits, arid whether other chemicals are present.
Exposure toxtialliuni occurs mainly^from eatlng/foda*. Exposure to /
higlier levels of thallium may occur in the workplace.,/Breathing highjevels of
thallium may .result in effects on the nervous system., while ingesting high levels
of it results in vomiting^diarrhea, tempoiap ^air4oss,;arid other effects. This/
chemical has Been found in at least 210 of1,416Jfetional Priorities%isAt sites
identified by the En^ronm^fol Pr6tecl|^nA * '
What is thallium?
(Pronounced thal/e-sm)
Pure thallium is a bluish-white metal that is found in
trace amounts in the earth's crust. In the past, thallium was
obtained as a by-product from smelting other metals;,
however, it has not been produced in the United States since
1984. Currently, all the thallium is obtained from imports
and from thallium reserves.
In its pure form, thallium is odorless and tasteless. It can
also be found combined with other substances such as
bromine, chlorine, fluorine, and iodine. When it's combined,
it appears colorless-to-white or yellow.
Thallium is used mostly in manufacturing electronic
devices, switches, and closures, primarily for the semiconduc-
tor industry. It also has limited use in the manufacture of
special glass and for certain medical procedures.
What happens to thallium when it enters
the environment?
Q Thallium enters the environment primarily from coal-
burning and smelting, in which it is a trace contaminant
of the raw materials.
Q It stays in the air, water, and soil for a long time and is
not broken down.
Q Some thallium compounds are removed from the
atmosphere in rain and snow.
Q It's absorbed by plants and enters the food chain.
IU It builds up in fish and shellfish.
How might I be exposed to thallium?
01 Eating food contaminated with thallium may be a major
source of exposure for most people
Q Breathing workplace air in industries that use thallium
Q Smoking cigarettes
Q Living near hazardous waste sites containing thallium
(may result in higher than normal exposures)
Q Touching or, for children, eating soil contaminated with
thallium
Q Breathing low levels in air and water.
How can thallium affect my health?
Exposure tq high levels of thallium can result in harmful
health effects. A study on workers exposed on the job over
several years reported nervous system effects, such as numb-
ness of fingers and toes, from breathing thallium.
Studies in people who ingested large amounts of
thallium over a short time have reported vomiting, diarrhea,
temporary hair loss, and effects on the nervous system, lungs,
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
THALLIUM
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
heart, liver, and kidneys. It has caused death. It is not
known what the effects are from ingesting low levels of
thallium over a long time.
Birth defects were not reported in the children of
mothers exposed to low levels from eating vegetables and
fruits contaminated with thallium. Studies in rats, however,
exposed to high levels of thallium, showed adverse develop-
mental effects.
It is not known if breathing or ingesting thallium affects
human reproduction. Studies showed that rats that ingested
thallium for several weeks had some adverse reproductive
effects. Animal data suggest that the male reproductive
system may be susceptible to damage by low levels of
thallium.
There is no information available on the health effects of
skin contact with thallium in people or animals.
How likely is thallium to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not classi-
fied thallium as to its human carcinogenicity.
No studies are available in people or animals on the
carcinogenic effects of breathing, ingesting, or touching
thallium.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to thallium?
There are medical tests available to measure levels of
thallium in urine and hair. In addition, thallium can also be
measured in blood; however, this is not a good indicator of
exposure since thallium only stays in blood a very short time.
These tests require special equipment that is not usually
available in most doctor's offices. In addition, these tests
cannot determine if adverse health effects will occur from the
exposure to thallium.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA requires that discharges or accidental spills
into the environment of 1,000 pounds or more of thallium be
reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an exposure limit of 0.1 milligrams per
cubic meter (0,1 mg/m3) for thallium in workplace air. The
American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists (ACGffl) has established the same guidelines as
OSHA for the workplace.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) has recommended that 15 mg/m3 of
thallium be considered immediately dangerous to life and
health. This is the exposure level of a chemical that is likely
to cause permanent health problems or death.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for thallium. Atlanta,
GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize evaluate
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state'health or'
environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333,
Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315.
Federal Recycling Program
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-ATSDR
1,1,1-TRlCHLOROETHANE
! CAS #71-55-6
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1996
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about 1,1,1-trichloroethane. For
more information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
in largeammiiits, but iisiiall/the effects/will disappear;after exposure^Ms. This
substanceJ hairbteen fpiind in^atjeiast 69^ of the 1?430 %%nal ppori|i|sOst sites
:iderfMed;b^the tfttyh^imif|ital Protection Ageiacy (EPA). ^ <, *" ~; j .':.,/
What is 1,1,1-trichloroethane?
(Pronounced tn-klsr'o-eth'an')
1,1,1-Trichloroethane is a colorless liquid with a sharp,
sweet odor. Even though it is usually found as a liquid, it
evaporates quickly and becomes a vapor. It is also known as
methyl chloroform, methyltrichloromethane, and trichloro-
methylmethane; its registered trade names are Chloroethene
NU and Aerothene TT. Use of trade names is for identification
only and does not imply endorsement by the Agency for Toxic
Substances and Disease Registry, the Public Health Service,
or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
1,1,1-Trichloroethane does not occur naturally in the en-
vironment. It is found in many common products such as
glue, paint, industrial degreasers, and aerosol sprays. By
1996, 1,1,1-trichloroethane will no longer be made in the
United States due to its effects on the ozone layer.
What happens to 1,1,1-trichloroethane when
it enters the environment?
G Most of the 1,1,1-trichloroethane released into the envi-
ronment is evaporated into the air, where it may last for
about 6 years.
Q It may travel to the ozone layer, where sunlight can break
it down into chemicals that destroy the ozone layer.
Q Contaminated water from hazardous waste sites may also
contaminate surrounding soil and nearby surface or
groundwater.
Q From lakes and rivers, most of the 1,1,1-trichloroethane
evaporates quickly into the air.
Q Water can carry 1,1,1-trichloroethane through the soil and
into the groundwater where it can evaporate and pass
through the soil as a gas, then be released to the air.
Q Organisms Jiving in soil or water may also break down
1,1,1 -trichlproethane.
Q It will not build up in plants or animals.
How might I be exposed to 1,1,1-trichloroethane?
Q Breathing contaminated air; it is used in many building
materials, so you are likely to be exposed to higher levels
indoors than outdoors or near hazardous waste sites.
Q Breathing contaminated air in the workplace while using
cleaning products, aerosol sprays, paint, and metal de-
greasing agents.
Q Ingesting contaminated drinking water and food.
Q Allowing liquids containing it to touch your skin.
How can l,i,l-trichloroethane affect my health?
If you breathe air containing high levels of 1,1,1-tri-
chloroethane for a short time you may become dizzy, light-
headed, and may lose your balance. These symptoms will
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALFH AND HUMAN SJERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
1,1,1-TRICHLOROETHANE
CAS # 71-55-6
A1SDR Internet home page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdncdc.g4v:8080/atsdrhome.html
disappear if you stop breathing contaminated air. Breathing
much higher levels may cause unconsciousness, low blood
pressure, and loss of heartbeat. The effects of breathing
1,1,1-trichloroethane for a long time are not known. In ani-
mals such as rats and dogs, exposure to high levels damages
the breathing passages, affects the nervous system, and causes
mild effects on the liver.
After pregnant rats or rabbits were exposed to 1,1,1-tri-
chloroethane, effects on the offspring, such as delayed devel-
opment and changes in the setting of the bone structure, were
usually only seen at levels that were toxic to the mother. It
isn't known whether this chemical affects human reproduction
or development.
There are no studies in people to tell whether harmful
health effects occur from eating food or drinking water con-
taminated with 1,1,1-trichloroethane. Placing large amounts of
it in an animal's stomach has caused effects on the nervous
system, mild liver damage, unconsciousness, and even death.
If your skin comes into contact with 1,1,1-trichloroethane,
you might feel some irritation. Studies in animals have shown
that skin contact may affect the liver and very large amounts
may cause death.
How likely is 1,1,1-trichloroethane to cause
cancer?
No information is available to show that 1,1,1-trichloro-
ethane causes cancer. The International Agency for Research
on Cancer (IARC) has determined that 1,1,1-trichloroethane
is not classifiable as to its human carcinogenicity.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to 1,1,1-trichloroethane?
Breath, blood, and urine samples can be tested to deter-
mine if you have recently been exposed to 1,1,1-trichloro-
ethane. These tests can sometimes estimate how much
1,1,1-trichloroethane has entered your body. Blood and
breath tests need to be taken within a few hours of exposure,
and urine tests need to be taken within 1-2 days. These tests,
however, can't tell whether your health will be affected as a
result of your exposure. The exposure tests aren't routinely
available in hospitals and clinics because special equipment
is required to perform them.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a limit of 0.2 parts of 1,1,1-trichloro-
ethane per million parts of drinking water (0.2 ppm). EPA
has recommended that the level of 1,1,1-trichloroethane in
lakes and streams shouldn't exceed 18 ppm to prevent pos-
sible health effects from drinking water or eating contami-
nated fish.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a workplace exposure limit of 350 ppm for
an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability of a substance to cause cancer.
CAS: Chemical Abstract Service.
Long time: Lasting one year or longer.
PPM: Parts per million.
Short time: Lasting 14 days or less.
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1995. Toxicological profile for 1,1,1-
trichloroethane. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information? ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health
clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate, and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances You
can also contact your community or state health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or
concerns. For more information, contact: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology 1600
Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, Phone: 404-639-6000, FAX: 404-639-6315. ATSDR Internet home
page via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/atsdrhome.html
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
TRICHLOROETHYLENE
CAS# 79-01-6
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQsj
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about trichloroethylene. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information
because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the
dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: irichloroethyleiiie js^colorlessliquid' wbfch is iised as a solvent.
- y ,' ~f' ^'" -*? \'^ f*~ -—,*• ~~ ' s " + 0**- <* •> ^\' ., * _ •" t/t _ f"* < ,
for eleaiii^giHetal parts; Drinkiiigorbreathiiigliigllilevefeof tncWoroeftiylenemay
cause; nervous "system effects^ Iker andhmg-damage,, abnormal Heartbeat* coma,y>^
and possibly death, MchldroethyleneJias been^foundin.at least 852^ol the i;43jp
* "" " "•• ",""•• ~ -"• ' , -
What is trichloroethylene?
(Pronounced tn-kl6r'o-eth/3-lgn')
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a nonflammable, colorless
liquid with a somewhat sweet odor and a sweet, burning taste.
It is used mainly as a solvent to remove grease from metal
parts, but it is also an ingredient in adhesives, paint removers,
typewriter correction fluids, and spot removers.
Trichloroethylene is not thought to occur naturally in the
environment. However, it has been found in underground
water sources and many surface waters as a result of the
manufacture, use, and disposal of the chemical.
What happens to trichloroethylene when it
enters the environment?
Q Trichloroethylene dissolves a little in water, but it can
remain in ground water for a long time.
Q Trichloroethylene quickly evaporates from surface water,
so it is commonly found as a vapor in the air.
Q Trichloroethylene evaporates less easily from this soil than
from surface water. It may stick to particles and remain
for a long time.
Q Trichloroethylene may stick to particles in water, which
will cause it to eventually settle to the bottom sediment.
Q Trichloroethylene does not build up significantly in
plants and animals.
How might I be exposed to trichloroethylene?
Q Breathing air in and around the home which has been
contaminated with trichloroethylene vapors from shower
water or household products such as spot removers and
typewriter correction fluid
Q Drinking, swimming, or showering in water that has been
contaminated with trichloroethylene
Q Contact with soil contaminated with trichloroethylene,
such as near a hazardous waste site
Q Contact with the skin or breathing contaminated air while
manufacturing trichloroethylene or using it at work to
wash paintor grease from skin or equipment
How can trichloroethylene affect my health?
Breathing'small amounts may cause headaches, lung
irritation, dizziness, poor coordination, and difficulty con
centrating.
Breathing large amounts of trichloroethylene may cause
impaired heart function, unconsciousness, and death. Breathing
it for long periods may cause nerve, kidney, and liver damage.
Drinking large amounts of trichloroethylene may cause
nausea, liver damage, unconsciousness, impaired heart func-
tion, or death. •
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN CERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
TRICHLOROETHYLENE
CAS# 79-01-6
Drinking small amounts of trichloroethylene for long
periods may cause liver and kidney damage, impaired im-
mune system function, and impaired fetal development in
pregnant women, although the extent of some of these effects
is not yet clear.
Skin contact with trichloroethylene for short periods
may cause skin rashes.
How likely is trichloroethylene to cause cancer?
Some studies with mice and rats have suggested that high
levels of trichloroethylene may cause liver or lung cancer.
Some studies of people exposed over long periods to high
levels of trichloroethylene in drinking water or in workplace
air have found evidence of increased cancer. However, these
results are inconclusive because the cancer could have been
caused by other chemicals.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer
(IARC) has determined that trichloroethylene is probably
carcinogenic to humans.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to trichloroethylene?
If you have recently been exposed to trichloroethylene, it
can be detected in your breath, blood, or urine. The breath test,
if it is performed soon after exposure, can tell if you have been
exposed to even a small amount of trichloroethylene.
Exposure to larger amounts is assessed by blood and
urine tests, which can detect trichloroethylene and many of its
breakdown products for up to a week after exposure. How-
ever, exposure to other similar chemicals can produce the
same breakdown products, so their detection is not absolute
proof of exposure to trichloroethylene. This test isn't avail-
able at most doctors' offices, but can be done at special labo-
ratories that have the right equipment.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA has set a maximum contaminant level for
trichloroethylene in drinking water at 0.005 milligrams per
liter (0.005 mg/L) or 5 parts of TCE per billion parts water.
The EPA has also developed regulations for the handling
and disposal of trichloroethylene.
I : -,::
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an exposure limit of 100 parts of trichloroet-
hylene per million parts of air (100 ppm) for an 8-hour work-
day, 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: The ability of a substance to cause cancer
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Evaporate: To change into a vapor or gas
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Nonflammable: Will not burn
PPM: Parts per million
Sediment: Mud and debris that have settled to the bottom of
a body of water
Solvent: A chemical that dissolves other substances
Source of Information
This ToxFAQs information is taken from the 1997 Toxi-
cological Profile for Trichloroethylene (update) produced by
the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Public
Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Ser-
vices, Public Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Sv^l^'^Tr^ TSfn \600Clift°»RoadNE. MailstopE-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1-800-
™S• VV 404-6;39-6359: ToxFAQs Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov: 8080/ToxFAQ html
ATSDR can e you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize^
ate and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community
health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns.
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
-------
-ATSDR
TOLUENE
Agency for Ibxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about toluene. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to tbluene^appens^o&ly J&ough^brea^hing it in"
workplace air,Jn automoMle exhaius t,,or Juring/deliberate glue^niffin^ or solyent
abuse. It is also use,d M many coiiisumef products! -BreaitMng ligji levels of v
toluene affects the brain and can cause headaches", confusion, dizziness; sleepiness,
and memory Io4 This chemical haCbeen found in at least 869 of 1,416 National
i»rjorities List sites identified by the Envii^nnien
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Page 2
TOLUENE
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
How can toluene affect my health?
Toluene affects the brain. Low-to-moderate levels from
long-term exposure can cause tiredness, confusion, weakness,
drunken-type actions, memory loss, nausea and loss of
appetite, and hearing loss.
Inhaling a high level of toluene in a short time can make
you feel light-headed, dizzy, or sleepy. It can cause uncon-
sciousness, and even death.
Repeated exposure to high levels can cause permanent
brain and speech damage, vision and hearing problems, loss
of muscle control, and poor balance. It can also cause
memory loss and decreased mental ability. Toluene also
affects the kidneys.
Several studies have shown that unborn animals were
harmed when high levels of toluene were breathed by their
mothers. Babies can have neurologic problems and retarded
growth and development if their mothers breathe a high level
of toluene during pregnancy. We do not know if toluene
harms the unborn child if the mother is exposed to low levels
of toluene during pregnancy.
How likely is toluene to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services and
the International Agency for Research on Cancer have not
classified toluene for carcinogenic effects. Studies in
workers and animals indicate that toluene does not cause
cancer.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to toluene?
Laboratory tests can detect toluene or its breakdown
products in exhaled air, blood, or urine. These tests are only
useful within 12 hours of exposure and do not tell if harmful
effects will occur. These tests are not routinely available at
your doctor's office.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a
limit in drinking water of 1 ppm toluene. EPA recommends
that children should not drink water containing more than
20 ppm toluene for 1 day, or 2 ppm for longer lengths of
time (7 years). Adults should not drink water containing
more than 7 ppm toluene for longer times.
The EPA requires that spills or accidental releases of
toluene into the environment of 1,000 pounds or more must
be reported to EPA.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) set a maximum level of 200 ppm toluene in
workplace air for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) recommends an exposure limit of 100 ppm
of toluene in workplace air and the American Conference
of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recom-
mends an exposure limit of 50 ppm in workplace air.
Glossary
Carcinogenic: Ability to cause cancer
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
PPM: Parts per million
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for toluene (update).
Atlanta, GA.: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize evaluate
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your coimmS^SS'teS&S'
' ePart If y°UhaVe m°re qUeSti°nS °r C0ncems' For more ^STS^^^fe
of Toxicolosy> 160°Clifton Road m Mailstop E-29'Atlanta'GA 30333'
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-------
-ATSDR
VANADIUM
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about vanadium. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
-•-V.VW7 A^~ ^" A _—v^_ ._ ^^JL ^, jt,, v ^ , - , ^ \f" . • - ,c** -- N?"1 - ' ~s>* J --•• -T< •£' <• •*$? ^^~ ~<- -- ^'-^ *~ * j*-~ ~ ,...».^™-vS ,
ft^ad^^
WlTnfcSmTXf^***^^
What is vanadium?
(Pronounced vs-na'de-sm)
Vanadium is a compound that occurs in nature as a white-
to-gray metal, and is often found as crystals. Pure vanadium
has no smell. It usually combines with other elements such as
oxygen, sodium, sulfur, or chloride. Vanadium and vanadium
compounds can be found in the earth's crust and in rocks,
some iron ores, and crude petroleum deposits.
Vanadium is mostly combined with other metals to make
special metal mixtures called alloys. Vanadium in the form of
vanadium oxide is a component in special kinds of steel that
is used for automobile parts, springs, and ball bearings. Most
of the vanadium used in the United States is used to make
steel. Vanadium oxide is a yellow-orange powder, dark-gray
flakes, or yellow crystals. Vanadium is also mixed with iron
to make important parts for aircraft engines.
Small amounts of vanadium are used in making rubber,
plastics, ceramics, and other chemicals.
What happens to vanadium when it enters
the environment?
Q Vanadium mainly enters the environment from natural
sources and from the burning of fuel oils.
D It stays in the air, water, and soil for a long time.
Q It does not dissolve well in water.
Q It combines with other elements and particles.
CD It sticks to soil sediments.
Q Low levels, have been found in plants, but it is not likely
to build up; in the tissues of animals.
How might I be exposed to vanadium?
Q Exposure to very low levels in air, water, and food
Q Eating higher levels of it in certain foods
Q Breathing air near an industry that burns fuel oil or coal;
these industries release vanadium oxide into the air
Q Working in industries that process it or make products
containing it
Q Breathing contaminated air or drinking contaminated
water near waste sites or landfills containing vanadium
Q Vanadium is not readily absorbed by the body from the
stomach, gut, or contact with the skin.
How can vanadium affect my health?
Exposure to high levels of vanadium can cause harmful
health effects.; The major effects from breathing high levels
of vanadium ate on the lungs, throat, and eyes. Workers who
breathed it for'short and long periods sometimes had lung
irritation, coughing, wheezing, chest pain, runny nose, and a
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN CERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and bisease Registry
-------
VANADIUM
Agency lor Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
sore throat. These effects stopped soon after they stopped
breathing the contaminated air. Similar effects have been
observed in animal studies. No other significant health
effects of vanadium have been found in people.
We do not know the health effects in people of ingesting
vanadium. Animals that ingested very large doses have
died. Lower, but still high levels of vanadium in the water of
pregnant animals resulted in minor birth defects. Some
animals that breathed or ingested vanadium over a long term
had minor kidney and liver changes.
The amounts of vanadium given in these animal studies
that resulted in harmful effects are much higher than those
likely to occur in the environment.
How likely is vanadium to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not classi-
fied vanadium as to its human carcinogenicity.
No human studies are available on the carcinogenicity
of vanadium. No increase in tumors was noted in a long-
term animal study where the animals were exposed to
vanadium in the drinking water.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to vanadium?
There are medical tests available to measure levels of
vanadium in urine and blood. These tests are not routinely
performed at doctors' offices because they require special
equipment, but your doctor can take samples and send them
to a testing laboratory. These tests can't determine if harmful
health effects will occur from the exposure to vanadium.
Another indicator of high vanadium exposure in people
is that their tongues may have a green color on top.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA requires discharges or spills of 1,000 pounds
or more of vanadium into the environment to be reported.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set an exposure limit of 0.05 milligrams per
cubic meter (0.05 mg/m3) for vanadium pentoxide dust and
0.1 mg/m3 for vanadium pentoxide fumes in workplace air
for an 8-hour workday, 40-hour workweek.
The American Conference of Governmental Indus-
trial Hygienists (ACGIH) has recommended an occupa-
tional exposure limit of 0.05 mg/m3 for vanadium pentoxide.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NIOSH) has recommended that 35 mg/m3 of
vanadium be considered immediately dangerous to life and
health. This is the exposure level of a chemical that is likely
to cause permanent health problems or death.
Glossary
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
Ingesting: Taking food or drink into your body
Long-term: Lasting one year or longer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1992. Toxicological profile for vanadium.
Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service.
Where can I get more information?
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
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-ATSDR
VINYL CHLORIDE
; CAS# 75-01-4
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ToxFAQsj
September 1997
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about vinyl chloride. For more
information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-800-447-1544. This fact sheet is one in a series of
summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It's important you understand this information
because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the
dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, arid whether other chemicals are present.
' *^^'w"^^^^«1^' «** ^afl«* Si^m^W
What is vinyl chloride?
(Pronounced vl'nsl klSr'id')
Vinyl chloride is a colorless, flammable gas at normal
temperatures with a mild, sweet odor. It is a manufactured
substance that is used to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
PVC is used to make a variety of plastic products, including
pipes, wire and cable coatings, and the furniture and automo-
bile upholstery.
"Vinyl chloride also results from the breakdown of other
substances, such as trichloroethane, trichloroethylene, and
tetrachloroethylene. Vinyl chloride is also known as chloro-
ethene, chloroethylene, and ethylene monochloride.
What happens to vinyl chloride when it enters
the environment?
O Liquid vinyl chloride evaporates easily into the; air. Vi-
nyl chloride, if it is near the surface of soil or water, can
also evaporate.
Q Vinyl chloride in the air can break down within a few
days to other substances, some of which can be harmful.
Q Small amounts of vinyl chloride can dissolve in water.
O Vinyl chloride formed from the breakdown of other
chemicals can enter groundwater.
Q Vinyl chloride is unlikely to build up in plants or animals.
How might I be exposed to vinyl chloride?
Q Breathing vinyl chloride that has been released from
plastics industries, hazardous waste sites, and landfills
Q Breathing vinyl chloride in air or during contact with
your skin or eyes in the workplace
Q Drinking water from contaminated wells
How can vinyl chloride affect my health?
Breathing high levels of vinyl chloride can cause you to
feel dizzy or sleepy. Breathing very high levels can cause
you to pass out, and breathing extremely high levels can
cause death.
Most of the studies on long-term exposure (365 days or
longer) to vinyl chloride are about workers that make or use
vinyl chloride.; They were exposed to much higher levels of
vinyl chloride in the air than is the general population.
People who breathe vinyl chloride for long periods of time
can have changes to the structure of their livers.
People who work with vinyl chloride have developed
nerve damage and immune reactions. Other workers have
developed problems with the blood flow in their hands; the
US. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SJERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and ibisease Registry
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Page 2
VINYL CHLORIDE
CAS# 75-01-4
<"»c.g6v:80SO/ToxFAO.htmI
tips of their fingers turn white and hurt when they are in cold
temperatures. Sometimes, the bones in the tips of their fin-
gers have broken down.
The effects of drinking high levels of vinyl chloride are
unknown. If you spill vinyl chloride on your skin, it will
cause numbness, redness, and blisters.
Animal studies have shown that long-term (365 days or
longer) exposure to vinyl chloride can damage the sperm and
testes. It has not been proven that vinyl chloride causes birth
defects in humans, but animal studies have shown that breath-
ing vinyl chloride can harm unborn offspring and may also
cause increases in early miscarriages.
How likely is vinyl chloride to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services
(DHHS) has determined that vinyl chloride is a known hu-
man carcinogen. Vinyl chloride exposure results in liver
cancer in people.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to vinyl chloride?
The results of several tests can sometimes show if you've
been exposed to vinyl chloride. If breath samples are taken
just after exposure, vinyl chloride can be measured, but this is
not helpful for measuring very low levels of the chemical.
Better information is gotten by measuring a breakdown
product of vinyl chloride, thiodiglycolic acid, in the urine
shortly after exposure. However, this test will not give infor-
mation on the level of exposure. Exposure to other chemicals
can produce the same breakdown product in the urine.
The binding of vinyl chloride to genetic material in your
blood or tissue can tell whether you have been exposed to
vinyl chloride, but this is not sensitive enough to determine
the effects resulting from exposure. These tests are not avail-
able at most doctors' offices, but can be done at special labora-
tories that have the right equipment.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
The EPA requires that the amount of vinyl chloride in
drinking water not exceed 0.002 milligrams of vinyl chloride
per liter of water (0.002 mg/L). The EPA requires that spills
or accidental releases into the environment of 1 pound or
more of vinyl chloride be reported to the EPA.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set the maximum allowable level of vinyl chloride
in workroom air during an 8-hour workday in a 40-hour work-
week at 1 part vinyl chloride per million parts of air (1 ppm).
Glossary
CAS: Chemical Abstracts Service
Carcinogen: A substance with the ability to cause cancer
Immune reaction: Sensitizing response of the body to a
chemical
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
Miscarriage: Pregnancy loss
PPM: Parts per million
Source of Information
This ToxFAQs information is taken from the 1997 Toxico-
logical Profile for Vinyl chloride (update) produced by the
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Public
Health Service, U.S. Department of Health and Human Ser-
vices, Public Health Service in Atlanta, GA.
Animal testing is sometimes necessary to find out how
toxic substances might harm people and how to treat people
who have been exposed. Laws today protect the welfare of
research animals and scientists must follow strict guidelines.
Where can I get more information? For more information, contact the Agency for Toxic Substances and
1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333. Phone: 1^0
s Internet address via WWW is http://atsdrl.atsdr.cdc.gov:8080/ToxFAQ html
, . y°U re,t0 f"Vd ^"P3110™1 and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognke eS-
ate and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community orltate
health or environmental quality department if you have any more questions or concerns commu™ty or state
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recyclbd Paper
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-ATSDR
XYLENE
CAS # 1330-20-7
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1996
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about xylene. For more
information, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about
hazardous substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance
may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the
duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
SUMMARY: Exposure to xylette occurs in the ^orkplace^andVhen;youruse paint,
gasoline, paint thijmers and other products that contain it. People Tvjho breathe
high levels may have dlzziness^confusion, anc| a change%i4heir sense of balance.
This substance has been found in at least 658 of the 1,430 National Priorities List
sites identified by ^the Enviroiiine trial Protection' Agency/EPA). ; i
What is xylene?
(Pronounced zl-len/)
Xylene is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid that catches
on fire easily. It occurs naturally in petroleum and coal tar
and is formed during forest fires. You can smell xylene in air
at 0.08-3.7 parts of xylene per million parts of air (ppm) and
begin to taste it in water at 0.53-1.8 ppm.
Chemical industries produce xylene from petroleum. It's
one of the top 30 chemicals produced in the United States in
terms of volume.
Xylene is used as a solvent and in the printing, rubber,
and leather industries. It is also used as a cleaning agent, a
thinner for paint, and in paints and varnishes. It is found in
small amounts in airplane fuel and gasoline.
What happens to xylene when it enters the
environment?
CD Xylene has been found in waste sites and landfills when
discarded as used solvent, or in varnish, paint, or paint
thinners.
0 It evaporates quickly from the soil and surface water into
the air.
Q In the air, it is broken down by sunlight into other less
harmful chemicals.
Q It is brokemdown by microorganisms in soil and water.
Q Only a small amount of it builds up in fish, shellfish,
plants, and animals living in xylene-contaminated water.
How might I be exposed to xylene?
Q Breathing xylene in workplace air or in automobile
exhaust.
Q Breathing contaminated air.
O Touching gasoline, paint, paint removers, varnish,
shellac, and rust preventatives that contain it.
Q Breathing cigarette smoke that has small amounts of
xylene in it,
D Drinking contaminated water or breathing air near waste
sites and landfills that contain xylene.
Q The amount of xylene in food is likely to be low.
How can xylene affect my health?
Xylene affects the brain. High levels from exposure for
short periods (14 days or less) or long periods (more than
1 year) can cause headaches, lack of muscle coordination,
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
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Page 2
XYLENE
CAS # 1330-20-7
ATSDR Internet home page via WWW i
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Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about zinc. For more informa-
tion, you may call 404-639-6000. This fact sheet is one in a series of summaries about hazardous
substances and their health effects. This information is important because this substance may harm
you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration, how you
are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
What is zinc?
(Pronounced zingk)
Zinc is one of the most common elements in the earth's
crust. It's found in air, soil, and water, and is present in all
foods. Pure zinc is a bluish-white shiny metal.
Zinc has many commercial uses as coatings to prevent
rust, in dry cell batteries, and mixed with other metals to make
alloys like brass and bronze. A zinc and copper alloy is used
to make pennies in the United States.
Zinc combines with other elements to form zinc com-
pounds. Common zinc compounds found at hazardous waste
sites include zinc chloride, zinc oxide, zinc sulfate, and zinc
sulfide. Zinc compounds are widely used in industry to make
paint, rubber, dye, wood preservatives, and ointments.
What happens to zinc when it enters the
environment?
Q Some is released into the environment by natural
processes, but most comes from activities of people like
mining, steel production, coal burning, and burning of
waste.
Q It attaches to soil, sediments, and dust particles in trie air.
Q Rain and snow remove zinc dust particles from the air.
Q Zinc compounds can move into the groundwater and into
lakes, streams, and rivers.
Q Most of the zinc in soil stays bound to soil particles.
Q It builds up in fish and other organisms, but it doesn't
build up in plants.
How might I :be exposed to zinc?
Q Ingesting small amounts present in your food and water
Q Drinking contaminated water near manufacturing or
waste sites i
Q Drinking contaminated water or a beverage that has been
stored in metal containers or flows through pipes that
have been coated with zinc to resist rust
Q Eating too many dietary supplements that contain zinc
Q Breathing zinc particles in the air at manufacturing sites.
How can zinc affect my health?
Zinc is an essential element in our diet. Too little zinc
can cause health problems, but too much zinc is also harmful.
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for zinc is
15 milligrams a day for men (15 mg/day); 12 mg/day for
women; 10 mg/day for children; and 5 mg/day for infants.
Not enough zinc in your diet can result in a loss of appetite, a
decreased sense of taste and smell, slow wound healing and
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Dijsease Registry
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Page 2
ZINC
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 1995
skin sores, or a damaged immune system. Young men who
don't get enough zinc may have poorly developed sex organs
and slow growth. If a pregnant woman doesn't get enough
zinc, her babies may have growth retardation.
Too much zinc, however, can also be damaging to your
health. Harmful health effects generally begin at levels from
10-15 times the RDA (in the 100 to 250 mg/day range).
Bating large amounts of zinc, even for a short time, can cause
stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Taken longer, it can
cause anemia, pancreas damage, and lower levels of high
density lipoprotein cholesterol (the good form of cholesterol).
Breathing large amounts of zinc (as dust or fumes) can
cause a specific short-term disease called metal fume fever.
This is believed to be an immune response affecting the lungs
and body temperature. We do not know the long-term effects
of breathing high levels of zinc.
It is not known if high levels of zinc affect human
reproduction or cause birth defects. Rats that were fed large
amounts of zinc became infertile or had smaller babies.
Irritation was also observed on the skin of rabbits, guinea pigs,
and mice when exposed to some zinc compounds. Skin
irritation will probably occur in people.
How likely is zinc to cause cancer?
The Department of Health and Human Services, the
International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have not classified
zinc for carcinogenicity.
Is there a medical test to show whether I've
been exposed to zinc?
Zinc can be measured in your blood or feces. This can
tell you how much zinc you have been exposed to. Zinc can
also be measured in urine, saliva, and hair. The amount of
zinc in your hair tells us something about long-term expo-
sure, but the relationship between levels in your hair and the
amount that you were exposed to is not clear. These tests are
not routinely performed at doctors' offices, but your doctor
can take samples and send them to a testing laboratory.
Has the federal government made
recommendations to protect human health?
EPA recommends that there be no more than 5 parts of
zinc in 1 million parts of drinking water (5 ppm) because of
taste. EPA also requires that releases of more than 1,000 (or
in some cases 5,000) pounds of zinc or its compounds into
the environment be reported.
The Occupational Safely and Health Administration
(OSHA) has set a maximum concentration limit for zinc
chloride fumes in workplace air of 1 milligram of zinc per
cubic meter of air (1 mg/m3) for an 8-hour workday over a
40-hour work week and 5 mg/m3 for zinc oxide fumes. The
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
(NIOSH) has set the same standards for up to a 10-hour
workday over a 40-hour workweek.
Glossary
Anemia: A decreased ability of the blood to transport oxygen
Carcinogenicity: Ability to cause cancer
Milligram (mg): One thousandth of a gram
References
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR). 1994. Toxicological profile for zinc. Atlanta,
GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service.
Where can I get more information? "
ATSDR can tell you where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. Their specialists can recognize, evaluate
and treat illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. You can also contact your community or state health or'
environmental quahty department if you have any more questions or concerns. For more information, contact- Agency for
CHft0n Road m> Mailst°P E-29> Atlanta> GA 30333,
Federal Recycling Program
Printed on Recycled Paper
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