Tar, Pitch, Bitumen & Creosote

Main Industries and Occupations at Risk

• Manufacture of coal tar, pitch, bitumen and creosote (Coke oven industries);
• Coal gasifi cation;
• Coke production;
• Water proofing of wood, making of roofing and insulating materials;
• Lining irrigation canals and reservoirs;
• Manufacture of dyestuff , e.g., carbon black;
• Manufacture of paints;
• Chemical feedstock for the production of benzene, toluene, xylene, phenol;
• Sealing agents, e.g., in battery manufacture;
• Lubricant for die moulds. 

Medical Examinations

Indications:

• Any occupational exposure to coal tar, coal tar pitch and coal tar creosote.
  

Types of Tests and Frequency of Examinations:

• Pre-placement medical examination: within 3 months of exposure
  • Clinical examination with emphasis on skin, lungs, gastrointestinal system and bladder.
• Periodic medical examinations: every 12 months
  • Clinical examination with emphasis on the skin, lungs, gastrointestinal system and bladder.