PREVENTIVE MEASURES REDUCE EXPOSURE TO POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC-HYDROCARBONS AT A GRAPHITE ELECTRODE PLANT

Objective-This study assessed the efficacy of preventive measures in a graphite electrode plant aimed at reducing occupational exposure to p olycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Methods-Electrode workers (n=1 46) answered a questionnaire and provided an end of shift urine sample . Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-hp(ur)), a biological marker of exposure to PAHs, was measured by high performance liquid chromatography couple d with: (a) fluorescence detection. 1-Hydroxypyrene concentrations wer e compared with the concentrations measured before implementing the pr eventive measures; and (b) those of a control group of 54 men not occu pationally exposed to PAHs. Results-After implementation of preventive measures, median concentrations 1-hp,, were significantly reduced in some groups of workers: by -24%, -37% and -30% in workers at the green electrode unit, one baking impregnation unit, and the laboratory, res pectively. In workers at a second baking impregnation unit, in end pro duct finishing and in the power station 1-hp,, concentrations were unc hanged. Urinary 1-hp concentrations were still significantly higher in each group of workers than in the control group (p<0.001 for any comp arison). Concentrations in the workers varied with the type of jab, th e highest values being found in workers engaged in the power station, in the two baking impregnation units and in the green electrode unit. Conclusions-Implementing preventive measures significantly reduced exp osure to PAHs at a graphite electrode plant. The reduction in median a nd peak concentrations of 1-hp,, which reflects total exposure to, and internal dose of PAHs, was most evident in workers employed in the un its where preventive measures had been taken. Despite an overall reduc tion, further preventive measures are needed to minimise exposure to P AHs and consequently the risk of adverse health effects.