Occupational exposure in methyl bromide manufacturing workers: 17-year follow-up study of urinary bromide ion concentration for biological monitoring

Abstract

To elucidate the circumstances of their occupational exposure to methyl bromide (MeBr), we conducted a 17-yr study on 124 workers employed by a MeBr manufacturer. Subjects were classified into three groups according to the nature of their work: synthesis group, filling group, and other group. Urinary concentrations of bromide ion (Br-) were assessed, and data attained via MeBr-health examinations were analyzed. The highest Brconcentrations were seen in the synthesis group, with a median value of 13.0 μg/mg CRE (2.5-51.8), followed by the filling group, with a concentration of 11.9 μg/mg CRE (3.1-34.8). Both values were significantly higher than the levels noted in the other group (p<0.001). Three major opportunities for exposure were identified: during exchange of reaction equipment for maintenance or cleaning, during operations to adjust for weight variations after filling canisters, or when canisters were recycled. Overall, however, the workplace environment concentration remained largely below the administrative control level throughout the study period. Therefore, while this was a relatively well-controlled workplace, exposure opportunities still arose when performing certain tasks, indicating the need for ongoing improvement in workplace procedures and underscoring the importance of biological monitoring.