Main Industries and Occupations at Risk
- Production of polyvinyl chloride resins (workers who clean and maintain the reactors are especially at risk);
- Production of vinyl chloride- vinyl acetate copolymers;
- Storage of Vinyl Chloride Monomer;
- Sampling and analysis of Vinyl Chloride Monomer.
Medical Examinations
Indications:
- Any occupational exposure to Vinyl Chloride Monomer.
Types of Tests and Frequency of Examinations:
- Pre-placement medical examinations: within three months of exposure
- Clinical examination shall include a detailed medical and work history with emphasis on the skin, liver and hands:
- i. evaluate past, present, and anticipated future exposure to VCM;
- ii. check for history of hepatic disorders, Hepatitis B;
- iii. determine quantity of alcohol intake.
- Tests:
- i. Liver function tests (serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine and aspartate transferases and gamma glutamyl transferase estimations);
- ii. Hepatitis B and C serology.
- Unfit for exposure to VCM:
- i. abnormal liver function test results;
- ii. heavy alcohol ingestion;
- iii. Hepatitis B carrier;
- iv. Hepatitis C serology positive;
- v. clinical evidence of liver disease e.g. enlarged spleen, liver, spider naevi, etc.
- Periodic medical examinations: every 12 months:
- Clinical examination with an emphasis on the skin, hands, liver and neurological system;
- Liver function tests (serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine and aspartate transaminases and gamma glutamyl (transferase estimations)
- Abnormal liver function test = any test result exceeding laboratory upper range of normal by 10%
