Vinyl Chloride Monomer

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%