Reduction of Sawmill Worker Exposure to Chlorophenols

Abstract

The results of a motivation program for the improvement of work practices to reduce employee exposure to chlorophenols in a wood planer mill are reported. Based on previous studies of the mill using chlorophenols in urine as an estimator of exposure, summer was identified as the time when use of protective equipment was most uncomfortable and onerous resulting in significantly increased exposure. A counseling strategy to provide employees with a range of options to reduce exposure during hot weather was developed.

To provide direct feedback to employees on the effectiveness of their protective behaviors, the chlorophenol sapstain solution was labeled with a fluorescent dye. Skin contamination was visualized using low wavelength ultraviolet light.

Multiple urine samples from each participant were analyzed for chlorophenols. Air sampling and surface sampling of the wood was also conducted and confirmed skin as the major route of exposure.

On average, the nine participants in the program significantly reduced their exposure based on the urinary excretion of chlorophenols during the three-week study period.

Conclusions of the study were that counseling for the improvement of use of personal protective equipment and of personal hygiene can be effective in reducing exposure when linked to a visualization technique for assessing skin contamination.