NIOH and NIOSH Basis for an Occupational Health Standard:
Chlorobenzene
As part of an agreement with the National Institute of
Occupational Health (NIOH) in Solna, Sweden, CDC's National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) develops
documents to provide the scientific basis for establishing
recommended occupational exposure limits. One such document, NIOH
and NIOSH Basis for an Occupational Health Standard: Chlorobenzene
(1), was recently released. *
Chlorobenzene is principally used as a chemical intermediate
in the production of chemicals such as nitrochlorobenzenes and
diphenyl oxide. It also is used as a solvent in degreasing
processes (e.g., in metal cleaning operations), the dry cleaning
industry, paints, adhesives, waxes, and polishes; it has also been
used as a heat-transfer medium and in the manufacture of resins,
dyes, perfumes, and pesticides. In 1984, 116,000 tons of
chlorobenzene were produced in the United States. Consumption is
increasing at an estimated average annual rate of 1%-2%.
This document summarizes and evaluates data relevant for
establishing permissible levels of occupational exposure to
chlorobenzene. Both central nervous system (prenarcotic) effects
and hepatotoxic effects of chlorobenzene should be considered in
setting occupational exposure limits. Limited evidence indicates
that chlorobenzene is genotoxic and may induce hematopoietic
toxicity at moderate doses. Information is not available to
determine the potential carcinogenicity of chlorobenzene in humans.
Reference
NIOSH. NIOH and NIOSH basis for an occupational health standard:
chlorobenzene. Cincinnati: US Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service, CDC, NIOSH, 1993; DHHS publication
no. (NIOSH)93-102.
Single copies of this document are available without charge from
the Publications Office, NIOSH, CDC, Mailstop C-13, 4676 Columbia
Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998; telephone (800) 356-4674; fax
(513) 533-8573.
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