Occupational Chlorine Intoxications in the Northern Part of the Former Central Slovak Region

Overview

The authors submit information on occupational chlorine intoxications in the northern part of the former Central Slovak regionduring 1979-1999.During the above period 92 occupational chlorine intoxications were reported, i.e. 15.7% of all occupational intoxicationsnotified by the Clinic of Occupational Diseases in Martin and departments of occupational medicine in the catchment area(Prievidza, Žilina, Ružomberok, Povážská Bystrica). The largest number of intoxications was reported from the chemical works inNováky (74%), from Chemicelulóza Žilina (9.8%) and Slovak Cellulose Works and Paper Mills Ružomberok (3.2%).Occupations most frequently suffering from chlorine intoxication: service men 10.8%, laboratory assistants 8.7%, employeesengaged in production an drying of chlorine 7.6%, chemists, smiths and warenhousemen 6.5% each. Other occupations accountedfor smaller percentages. The most frequent intoxications were individual, in four instances mass intoxications were involvedaffecting 3-9 people. The authors draw attention to the large percentage of hospitalized subjects - 53.2%, and as many s 60.8%with work incapacity in the group of intoxicated subjects.The most frequently reported subjective complaints were cough in 89.1%, impaired respiration in 75%, burning of eyes andlacrimation in 57.6% and chest pain in 42.4%.Evaluation of intoxications from the occupational asprevealed that in 99% acute severe intoxications were involved, in 1% otheroccupational health damage with impairment of the airways during repeated chlorine inhalation.In the conclusion the authors emphasize the necessity to respect principles of protection and safety during work.

Key words:
chlorine intoxication, incidence, occupation, protection and safety at work