A Health Hazard Evaluation of Antimony Exposure in Fire Fighters

作者:de Perio Marie A*; Durgam Srinivas; Caldwell Kathleen L; Eisenberg Judith
来源:Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2010, 52(1): 81-84.
DOI:10.1097/JOM.0b013e3181c7514a

摘要

Objectives: Some firefighter station uniforms contain the flame-retardant, antimony trioxide. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health investigated a possible outbreak of antimony toxicity wherein 30 firefighters reported elevated antimony levels on hair analyses. Methods: We surveyed and collected urine samples from firefighters not wearing (Fire Department A) and wearing (Fire Department B) antimony-containing pants. Urine antimony concentrations were measured and adjusted for creatinine. Results: All 20 participating firefighters from Fire Department A and 41 (97.6%) of 42 participating firefighters from Fire Department B had urine antimony concentrations below or within the national reference range. No differences in urine antimony levels between departments were detected. Conclusions: Wearing antimony-containing uniforms does not pose a risk for antimony toxicity. This investigation highlights the importance of using validated methods for toxicity determination and of accurate, timely risk communication.

  • 出版日期2010-1