Medical Management Guidelines for 1,3-Butadiene
(C
4H
6)
CAS# 106-99-0
UN# 1010
PDF Versionpdf icon[240 KB]
Synonyms include butadiene, buta-1,3-diene, biethylene, bivinyl, vinylethylene, erythrene, α, γ-butadiene, divinyl, and pyrrolylene.
- Persons exposed to 1,3-butadiene gas do not pose a significant risk of secondary contamination to response personnel outside the Hot Zone. Persons whose skin or clothing has been contaminated with liquid 1,3-butadiene can secondarily contaminate response personnel by direct contact or through off-gassing vapor.
- 1,3-Butadiene is a colorless, highly flammable gas at room temperature. The gas is heavier than air and potentially explosive. It has a mild, aromatic, gasoline-like odor that is often an adequate warning to protect against acute overexposure.
- The major route of exposure to 1,3-butadiene is inhalation. 1,3-Butadiene escaping its container in liquid or gas form can produce irritation or frostbite injury. Significant dermal absorption is unlikely.
- 1,3-Butadiene's extreme flammability and potential for explosion is probably of greater health concern than its toxic effects.
General Information
Description
1,3-Butadiene is a colorless gas with
a mild, aromatic, gasoline-like odor. It is non-corrosive
but highly flammable. The vapor is heavier than air. 1,3-
Butadiene is commercially available as a liquefied gas (under
pressure) with a stabilizer added for shipment. Liquid 1,3-butadiene
floats and boils on water. Because of 1,3-butadiene's physical
properties (e.g., low flashpoint and tendency to polymerize),
its fire and explosion potential might be greater concerns
(more likely to occur and more dangerous) than its health
effects.
Routes of Exposure
Inhalation
1,3-Butadiene is a gas at all ambient
temperatures; therefore, the most common exposure route for
humans is inhalation. 1,3-Butadiene is heavier than air and
can collect in poorly ventilated or enclosed spaces and low-lying
areas, posing a risk of asphyxiation. Short-term exposure
to concentrations of 2,000 to 8,000 ppm has been reported
to cause irritation of the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth,
and throat. The odor of 1,3-butadiene is discernable at 1 to 1.6 ppm which is slightly higher than the OSHA PEL (1 ppm) and therefore may not be a sufficient warning of acute exposure.
Children exposed to the same levels
of 1,3-butadiene vapor as adults may receive larger dose because
they have greater lung surface area:body weight ratios and
increased minute volumes:weight ratios. In addition, they
may be exposed to higher levels than adults in the same location
because of their short stature and the higher levels of 1,3-butadiene
vapor found nearer to the ground.
Skin/Eye Contact
Exposure to concentrated vapors of liquid
1,3-butadiene can cause mild to moderate irritation of the
eyes and upper respiratory tract, and mild irritation of the
skin. Direct contact with escaping compressed gas or liquid
can cause frostbite injury.
Ingestion
Ingestion is unlikely because 1,3-butadiene
is a gas at room temperature. No human or animal toxicity
information was available for ingested 1,3-butadiene at the
time of this review.
Sources/Uses
Large amounts (about 3 billion pounds)
of 1,3-butadiene are produced each year from petroleum gases.
Over 60% of this is used to make styrene/butadiene and polybutadiene
rubber, primarily for automotive tires. Smaller percentages
are used to produce a component of nylon (12%), styrene-butadiene
co-polymer latexes (8%), neoprene rubber (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene)
(7%), and acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene (ABS) resins (6%).
Most of the remaining 7% is used in the production of rocket
propellants and specialty copolymer resins and latexes for
paints, coatings, and adhesives; and as an additive to oil
lubricants. Nonpolymer applications include the manufacture
of agricultural fungicides (Captan and Captofol), sulfolane
(an industrial solvent), and anthraquinone dyes.
Small amounts of 1,3-butadiene are found
in gasoline, automobile exhaust, cigarette smoke, and wood-fire
smoke.
Standards and Guidelines
OSHA PEL (permissible exposure limit)
= 1 ppm (averaged over an 8-hour workshift).
OSHA STEL (short-term exposure limit)
= 5 ppm (15-minute exposure).
NIOSH IDLH (immediately dangerous to
life or health) = 2,000 ppm.
AIHA ERPG-2 (maximum airborne concentration
below which it is believed that nearly all persons could be
exposed for up to 1 hour without experiencing or developing
irreversible or other serious health effects or symptoms that
could impair their abilities to take protective action) =
200 ppm.
Physical Properties
Description: colorless gas; colorless
liquid when pressurized
Warning properties: odor often
provides an adequate warning for acute but not chronic exposures.
The gas has a mild, aromatic, gasoline-like odor detectable
at concentrations ranging from 1 to 1.6 ppm.
Molecular weight: 54.09 daltons
Boiling point (760 mm Hg): 24.08°F
(-4.4°C)
Freezing point: -164°F (-108.9°C)
Specific gravity: 0.62 (liquid)
at 68°F (20°C) (water = 1.00)
Vapor pressure: 910 mm Hg at 68°F
(20°C)
Gas density: 1.9 (air = 1 at boiling
point of 1,3-butadiene)
Water solubility: Negligible solubility
in water (735 mg/L at 77°F [25°C])
Flammability: Flammable at temperatures
> -105°F (-76°C)
Flammable range: 2.0 to 12.0%
Incompatibilities
1,3-Butadiene is highly reactive and
polymerizes easily, especially in the presence of oxygen.
Inhibitors (such as tributylcatechol) are normally added to
prevent self-polymerization and formation of peroxides. It
reacts violently with strong oxidizing agents and can cause
fires and explosions. Crude 1,3-butadiene (the dimer, not
the monomer) can react with copper and copper alloys to form
explosive copper compounds. It breaks down some types of plastics,
rubber, and coatings. It polymerizes at elevated temperatures;
if polymerization occurs in a container, the process can violently
rupture the container. Toxic gases such as carbon monoxide
can be released when 1,3-butadiene burns.
Health Effects
- Acute, high-level exposure to 1,3-butadiene gas initially
can cause eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation. Exposures
to very high concentrations of 1,3-butadiene can cause central
nervous system (CNS) depression. Signs and symptoms can
include blurred vision, nausea, fatigue, headache, vertigo,
decreased blood pressure and pulse rate, unconsciousness,
and respiratory paralysis.
- Acute toxicity of 1,3-butadiene is due to its narcotic
effects. 1,3-Butadiene is metabolized to produce two DNA
reactive metabolites; butadiene monoepoxide and butadiene
diepoxide.
Acute Exposure
Acute toxicity of 1,3-butadiene is due
to its narcotic effects. 1,3-Butadiene is metabolized to two
DNA reactive metabolites: butadiene monoepoxide and butadiene
diepoxide. Acute exposure to 1,3-butadiene can cause irritation
and (at high concentrations) narcosis. At air concentrations
of 1,000 ppm or greater, 1,3-butadiene can cause irritation
of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat. Eye irritation, blurred
vision, coughing, and drowsiness have been reported after
8-hour exposures to 8,000 ppm.
Children do not always respond to chemicals
in the same way that adults do. Different protocols for managing
their care may be needed.
CNS
In humans, inhalation of very high concentrations
of 1,3-butadiene can result in CNS effects including lethargy,
headache, drowsiness, fatigue, vertigo, ataxia, unconsciousness,
coma, and respiratory depression and death. Humans exposed
to 2,000 ppm in air for 7 hours reported hallucinations and
distortions in perception. In experimental animal studies,
concentrations of 150,000 to 200,000 ppm have produced mild
anesthesia. At concentrations of 200,000 to 250,000 ppm, respiratory
depression leading to death has been reported within 35 minutes.
As air levels approach those high enough to seriously threaten
CNS function, however, the far greater danger is from explosion.
Respiratory
Acute inhalation of 2,000 to 8,000 ppm
1,3-butadiene can cause irritation of the upper respiratory
tract. Coughing and bronchospasm can occur, especially in
susceptible individuals, such as persons with asthma.
Dermal
Skin contact with escaping compressed
gas or liquid 1,3-butadiene can cause mild to moderate irritation
and frostbite. Mixtures of 1,3-butadiene and clay minerals
have been reported to cause dermatitis.
Ocular
Exposure to 2,000 to 8,000 ppm 1,3-butadiene
gas can cause eye irritation, chemical conjunctivitis, and
corneal irritation.
Cardiovascular
Bradycardia and hypotension secondary
to CNS depression is possible with exposure to very high concentrations
(150,000-250,000 ppm) of 1,3-butadiene.
Gastrointestinal
Nausea and dryness of the mouth can occur.
Potential Sequelae
In survivors, dermal, ocular, and systemic
effects of 1,3-butadiene exposure rapidly subside. However,
victims who suffer prolonged hypoxia from coma or respiratory
arrest can develop multiple organ damage.
Chronic Exposure
Cancer is suspected to be the primary
adverse effect of chronic exposure to 1,3-butadiene. 1,3-Butadiene
metabolites are mutagenic in both germ and somatic cells.
The rates of epoxide metabolite formation in different species
are thought to be an important factor in the species' responses
to 1,3-butadiene. There is some evidence for bone marrow depression
and DNA repair deficiencies after long-term exposure of experimental
animals to 1,3-butadiene.
Chronic exposure may be more serious
for children because of their potential longer latency period.
Carcinogenicity
1,3-Butadiene has caused multi-site tumors
in laboratory mice and rats. The U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that 1,3-butadiene
can reasonably be anticipated to be a human carcinogen. In
a recent re-evaluation, the International Agency for Research
on Cancer (IARC) viewed the human epidemiological evidence
for carcinogenicity as limited and retained the Group 2A classification,
"probably carcinogenic to humans." The carcinogenic
effect if it were to occur would most likely occur following
long-term exposure.
Reproductive and Developmental Effects
No adverse reproductive effects form
1,3-butadiene exposure have been reported for humans. Experimental
animal studies have yielded evidence for damage to the testes
and ovaries, and for direct toxic effects on the developing
young from exposures during gestation. No information was
located on whether 1,3-butadiene can cross the placenta or
on levels of 1,3-butadiene in breast milk. 1,3-Butadiene is
not included in Reproductive and Developmental Toxicants,
a 1991 report published by the General Accounting Office (GAO)
that lists 30 chemicals of concern because of widely acknowledged
reproductive and developmental consequences.
Special consideration regarding the exposure
of pregnant women is warranted, since metabolites of 1,3-butadiene
have been shown to be genotoxicants; thus, medical counseling
may be warranted for the acutely exposed pregnant woman.
Prehospital Management
- Persons exposed only to 1,3-butadiene gas pose no risk
of secondary contamination to rescuers. Those whose skin
or clothing is heavily contaminated with liquid 1,3-butadiene
can secondarily contaminate response personnel by direct
contact or through rapidly evaporating gas.
- 1,3-Butadiene is a gas at all ambient temperatures; therefore,
the most common exposure route for humans is inhalation.
Very high concentrations (150,000 to 250,000 ppm) of 1,3-butadiene
have the potential to cause CNS and respiratory depression.
Lower concentrations can cause headache, nausea, coughing,
blurred vison, and irritation of the eyes and upper respiratory
tract.
- There is no specific antidote for
1,3-butadiene poisoning. Treatment is supportive.
Hot Zone
Rescuers should be trained and appropriately
attired before entering the Hot Zone. If the proper equipment
is not available, or if the rescuers have not been trained
in its use, call for assistance from a local or regional HAZMAT
team or other properly equipped response organization.
1,3-Butadiene is very flammable and has
a high fire and explosion potential. Responders should eliminate
all sources of ignition, including grounding of electrical
equipment.
Rescuer Protection
1,3-Butadiene gas is readily absorbed
by inhalation and is a respiratory tract irritant. Contact
of skin or eyes with escaping compressed gas or liquid can
cause irritation or frostbite injury.
Respiratory Protection: Positive-pressure,
self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is recommended in
response situations that involve exposure to potentially hazardous
levels of 1,3-butadiene gas.
Skin Protection: When skin contact
with the liquid or escaping compressed gas is expected, wearing
chemical-protective clothing is recommended to avoid skin
irritation and frostbite. Chemical-protective clothing is
not generally required with gas-only exposure because dermal
irritation and absorption of 1,3-butadiene gas is minimal.
ABC Reminders
Quickly access for a patent airway, ensure
adequate respiration and pulse. If trauma is suspected, maintain
cervical immobilization manually and apply a cervical collar
and a backboard when feasible.
Victim Removal
If victims can walk, lead them out of
the Hot Zone to the Decontamination Zone. Victims who are
unable to walk should be removed on backboards or gurneys.
If these are not available, carefully carry or drag victims
to safety.
Consider appropriate management of chemically
contaminated children, such as measures to reduce separation
anxiety if a child is separated from a parent or other adult.
Decontamination Zone
Victims exposed only to 1,3-butadiene
gas who have no skin or eye irritation do not need decontamination.
They may be transferred immediately to the Support Zone. Other
patients will require decontamination as described below.
Rescuer Protection
If exposure levels are determined to
be safe, decontamination may be conducted by personnel wearing
a lower level of protection than that required in the Hot
Zone (described above).
ABC Reminders
Quickly access for a patent airway, ensure
adequate respiration and pulse. Stabilize the cervical spine
with a collar and a backboard if trauma is suspected. Administer
supplemental oxygen as required. Assist ventilation with a
bag-valve-mask if necessary.
Basic Decontamination
Victims who are able may assist with
their own decontamination. If the patient's clothing is wet
with 1,3-butadiene, remove and double bag the contaminated
clothing and all personal belongings.
Handle frostbitten skin and eyes with
caution. Place frostbitten skin in warm water, about 108°F
(42°C). If warm water is not available, wrap the affected
part gently in blankets. Let the circulation reestablish itself
naturally. Encourage the victim to exercise the affected part
while it is being warmed.
Flush exposed skin and hair with plain
water for 2 to 3 minutes, then wash with mild soap. Rinse
thoroughly with water.
Do not irrigate frostbitten eyes. Otherwise,
irrigate exposed eyes with plain water or saline for at least
15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if easily removable without
additional trauma to the eye. If pain or injury is evident,
continue irrigation while transferring the victim to the Support
Zone.
Transfer to Support Zone
As soon as basic decontamination is complete,
move the victim to the Support Zone.
Support Zone
Be certain that victims have been decontaminated
properly (see Decontamination Zone above). Victims
who have undergone decontamination or have been exposed only
to 1,3-butadiene gas pose no serious risk of secondary contamination
to rescuers. In such cases, Support Zone personnel require
no specialized protective gear.
ABC Reminders
Quickly access for a patent airway, ensure
adequate respiration and pulse. If trauma is suspected, maintain
cervical immobilization manually and apply a cervical collar
and a backboard when feasible. Ensure adequate respiration
and pulse; administer supplemental oxygen as required and
establish intravenous access if necessary. Place on a cardiac
monitor.
Additional Decontamination
Continue irrigating exposed skin and
eyes, as appropriate.
Advanced Treatment
In cases of respiratory compromise secure
airway and respiration via endotracheal intubation. If not
possible, perform cricothyroidotomy if equipped and trained
to do so.
Treat patients who have bronchospasm
with aerosolized bronchodilators. The use of bronchial sensitizing
agents in situations of multiple chemical exposures may pose
additional risks. Also consider the health of the myocardium
before choosing which type of bronchodilator should be administered.
Cardiac sensitizing agents may be appropriate; however, the
use of cardiac sensitizing agents after exposure to certain
chemicals may pose enhanced risk of cardiac arrhythmias (especially
in the elderly). 1,3-Butadiene poisoning is not known to pose
additional risk during the use of bronchial or cardiac sensitizing
agents.
Consider racemic epinephrine aerosol
for children who develop stridor. Dose 0.25-0.75 mL of 2.25%
racemic epinephrine solution in 2.5 cc water, repeat every
20 minutes as needed cautioning for myocardial variability.
Patients who are comatose, hypotensive,
or have seizures or cardiac dysrhythmias should be treated
according to advanced life support (ALS) protocols.
If frostbite injury is present, treat
by rewarming in a water bath at a temperature of 102 to 108°F
(40 to 42°C) for 20 to 30 minutes and continue until
a flush has returned to the affected area.
Transport to Medical Facility
Only decontaminated patients or patients
not requiring decontamination should be transported to a medical
facility. "Body bags" are not recommended.
Report the condition of the patient,
treatment given, and estimated time of arrival at the medical
facility to the base station and the receiving medical facility.
Multi-Casualty Triage
Consult with the base station physician
or the regional poison control center for advice regarding
triage of multiple victims.
Patients with evidence of significant
exposure, such as respiratory difficulties or symptoms of
CNS depression, should be transported to a medical facility
for evaluation. Others may be discharged at the scene after
their names, addresses, and telephone numbers are recorded.
Those discharged should be advised to seek medical care promptly
if symptoms develop (see Patient Information Sheet
below).
Emergency Department Management
- Patients exposed only to 1,3-butadiene gas pose no risk
of secondary contamination to rescuers. Patients whose skin
or clothing is contaminated with liquid 1,3-butadiene could
potentially contaminate hospital personnel by contact with
rapidly evaporating gas. The gas is highly flammable; therefore,
decontamination should be conducted in a well-ventilated
area and all sources of ignition should be eliminated.
- 1,3-Butadiene is a gas at all ambient temperatures and
is not absorbed well through the skin; therefore, the most
common exposure route for humans is inhalation. Very high
concentrations of 1,3-butadiene have the potential to cause
CNS and respiratory depression. Lower concentrations can
cause irritation of the eyes and upper respiratory tract,
coughing, blurred vision, nausea, and headache.
- There is no specific antidote for 1,3-butadiene. Treatment
is supportive.
Decontamination Area
Previously decontaminated patients and
those exposed only to 1,3-butadiene gas who have no skin or
eye irritation may be transferred immediately to the Critical
Care Area. Others require decontamination as described below.
Be aware that use of protective equipment
by the provider may cause fear in children, resulting in decreased
compliance with further management efforts.
ABC Reminders
Evaluate and support airway, breathing,
and circulation. In cases of respiratory compromise secure
airway and respiration via endotracheal intubation. If not
possible, surgically create an airway.
Treat patients who have bronchospasm
with aerosolized bronchodilators. The use of bronchial sensitizing
agents in situations of multiple chemical exposures may pose
additional risks. Also consider the health of the myocardium
before choosing which type of bronchodilator should be administered.
Cardiac sensitizing agents may be appropriate; however, the
use of cardiac sensitizing agents after exposure to certain
chemicals may pose enhanced risk of cardiac arrhythmias (especially
in the elderly). 1,3-Butadiene poisoning is not known to pose
additional risk during the use of bronchial or cardiac sensitizing
agents.
Consider racemic epinephrine aerosol
for children who develop stridor. Dose 0.25-0.75 mL of 2.25%
racemic epinephrine solution in 2.5 cc water, repeat every
20 minutes as needed cautioning for myocardial variability.
Patients who are comatose, hypotensive,
or are having seizures or ventricular arrhythmias should be
treated in the conventional manner.
Basic Decontamination
1,3-Butadiene gas or liquid should no
longer be present on the patient. Nevertheless, if further
decontamination is needed, patients who are able and cooperative
may assist with their own decontamination. Remove contaminated
clothing and all personal belongings and place them outside
in a well ventilated area (due to a potential fire or explosion
hazard).
Handle frostbitten skin and eyes with
caution. Place frostbitten skin in warm water, about 108°F
(42°C). If warm water is not available, wrap the affected
part gently in blankets. Let the circulation reestablish itself
naturally. Encourage the victim to exercise the affected part
while it is being warmed.
Flush exposed skin and hair with plain
water for 2 to 3 minutes, then wash with mild soap. Rinse
thoroughly with water. Use caution to avoid hypothermia when
decontaminating children or the elderly. Use blankets or warmers
when appropriate.
Do not irrigate frostbitten eyes. Otherwise,
flush exposed or irritated eyes with plain water or saline
for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if easily removable.
If pain or injury is evident, continue irrigation while transferring
the victim to the Critical Care Area.
Critical Care Area
Be certain that appropriate decontamination
has been carried out (see Decontamination Area above).
ABC Reminders
Evaluate and support airway, breathing,
and circulation as in ABC Reminders above. Establish intravenous
access in seriously patients if this has not been done previously.
Continuously monitor cardiac rhythm.
Patients who are comatose, hypotensive,
or have seizures or cardiac arrhythmias should be treated
in the conventional manner.
Inhalation Exposure
Administer supplemental oxygen by mask
to patients who have respiratory complaints or CNS depression.
Treat patients who have bronchospasm with aerosolized bronchodilators.
The use of bronchial sensitizing agents in situations of multiple
chemical exposures may pose additional risks. Also consider
the health of the myocardium before choosing which type of
bronchodilator should be administered. Cardiac sensitizing
agents may be appropriate; however, the use of cardiac sensitizing
agents after exposure to certain chemicals may pose enhanced
risk of cardiac arrhythmias (especially in the elderly). 1,3-Butadiene
poisoning is not known to pose additional risk during the
use of bronchial or cardiac sensitizing agents.
Consider racemic epinephrine aerosol
for children who develop stridor. Dose 0.25-0.75 mL of 2.25%
racemic epinephrine solution in 2.5 cc water, repeat every
20 minutes as needed cautioning for myocardial variability.
Skin Exposure
Escaping compressed gas or liquid 1,3-butadiene
can cause frostbite injury. If a victim has frost bite, treat
by rewarming affected areas in a water bath at a temperature
of 102 to 108°F (40 to 42°C) for 20 to 30 minutes
and continue until a flush has returned to the affected area.
Eye Exposure
Ensure that adequate eye irrigation has
been completed. Test visual acuity. Examine the eyes for conjucorneal
damage and treat appropriately. Immediately consult an ophthalmologist
for patients who have a suspected corneal injury.
Ingestion Exposure
Ingestion of 1,3-butadiene is highly
unlikely because it is gaseous at room temperatures and a
liquid only when kept under pressure.
Antidotes and Other Treatments
There is no specific antidote for 1,3-butadiene
poisoning. Treatment is supportive.
Laboratory Tests
The diagnosis of acute 1,3-butadiene
toxicity is primarily clinical based on respiratory distress
or symptoms of CNS depression. Routine laboratory studies
for symptomatic patients should include CBC, glucose, electrolytes,
liver enzymes, and kidney function tests. Chest radiography
and pulse oximetry (or ABG measurements) are recommended in
cases of severe inhalation exposure.
1,3-Butadiene and its major metabolites,
the epoxides (mono- and di-) and the mercapturic acid derivatives
of the epoxides, are rapidly eliminated from the body through
the lungs and kidney, respectively. Any testing should be
performed shortly after exposure. Breath levels of the epoxides
and urine levels of mercapturic acids are not clinically useful,
but they can be used to document an exposure.
Disposition and Follow-up
Consider hospitalizing patients who have
persistent or progressive symptoms, ventricular ectopy, or
who might have been exposed to extremely high levels of 1,3-butadiene.
Delayed Effects
Patients who experience significant CNS
depression should be observed until complete recovery is evident,
preferably for 24 hours or longer.
Patient Release
Patients who have not experienced alterations
in mental status or respiratory difficulty may be discharged.
Patients who initially exhibited mild symptoms, but who become
asymptomatic during 6 to 8 hours of observation, may also
be discharged. These patients should be advised to rest and
to seek medical care promptly if symptoms develop or recur
(see the 1,3-Butadiene-Patient Information Sheet below).
Follow-up
Obtain the name of the patient's primary
care physician so that the hospital can send a copy of the
ED visit to the patient's doctor.
After significant exposures, CBC, liver
enzymes, and kidney function tests are recommended in cases
of severe cardiopulmonary compromise. Patients who have skin
or corneal injury should be re-examined within 24 hours.
Reporting
If a work-related incident has occurred,
you might be legally required to file a report. Contact your
state or local health department.
Other persons might still be at risk
in the setting where this incident occurred. If the incident
occurred in the workplace, discussing it with company personnel
might prevent future incidents. If a public health risk exists,
notify your state or local health department or other responsible
public agency. When appropriate, inform patients that they
may request an evaluation of their workplace from OSHA or
NIOSH. See Appendices III and IV for a list of agencies that
may be of assistance.
Patient Information Sheet
This handout provides information and
follow-up instructions for persons who have been exposed to
1,3-butadiene.
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What is 1,3-butadiene?
1,3-Butadiene is shipped and handled
as a liquefied compressed gas in a special container. At room
temperatures, it is a gas with a mild, gasoline-like odor.
It is used to make synthetic rubber, tires, and plastics.
What health effects can result from 1,3-butadiene exposure?
Inhaling 1,3-butadiene can cause irritation
of the nose, eyes, mouth, and throat. Typical symptoms include
sore throat, runny nose, burning eyes, and cough. Exposure
to very high concentrations can cause headache, nausea, blurred
vision, drowsiness, fatigue, vertigo, coma, and death. If
the skin or eyes come in contact with liquid 1,3-butadiene,
frostbite can occur.
Can 1,3-poisoning be treated?
There is no specific antidote for 1,3-butadiene,
but its effects can be treated and most exposed persons recover
well. Persons who have inhaled large amounts of 1,3-butadiene
might need to be hospitalized.
Are any health effects likely to occur?
A small single exposure from which a
person quickly recovers is not likely to cause any delayed
or long-term effects. There are no reported human reproductive
health effects, but some animal studies have shown developmental
defects after long-term exposure. Medical evaluation is recommended
for such patients. Chronic, long-term exposure might also
cause cancer; 1,3-butadiene is considered a probable human
carcinogen.
What tests be done if a person has been exposed to 1,3-butadiene?
Specific tests for the presence of 1,3-butadiene
and its breakdown products in the breath and urine are not
widely available and must be performed shortly after exposure.
These tests are not generally useful to your doctor.
Where can information about 1,3-butadiene be found?
More information about 1,3-butadiene
can be obtained from your regional poison control center;
your state, county, or local health department; the Agency
for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR); your doctor;
or a clinic in your area that specializes in occupational
and environmental health. If the exposure happened at work,
you may wish to discuss it with your employer, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), or the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Ask the person
who gave you this form for help in locating these telephone
numbers.
Follow-up Instructions
Keep this page and take it with you to
your next appointment. Follow only the instructions
checked below.
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[ ] Call your doctor or the Emergency
Department if you develop any unusual signs or symptoms within
the next 24 hours, especially:
- shortness of breath
- coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness
- increased pain or discharge from injured eyes
- signs of skin infection, increased redness, pain, or pus-like
discharge from injured skin
[ ] No follow-up appointment is necessary
unless you develop any of the symptoms listed above.
[ ] Call for an appointment with Dr.____
in the practice of ________.
When you call for your appointment, please
say that you were treated in the Emergency Department at _________
Hospital by________and were advised to be seen again in ____days.
[ ] Return to the Emergency Department/Clinic
on ____ (date) at _____ AM/PM for a follow-up examination.
[ ] Do not perform vigorous physical
activities for 1 to 2 days.
[ ] You may resume everyday activities
including driving and operating machinery.
[ ] Do not return to work for _____days.
[ ] You may return to work on a limited
basis. See instructions below.
[ ] Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke
for 72 hours; smoke may worsen the condition of your lungs.
[ ] Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages
for at least 24 hours; alcohol may worsen injury to your stomach
or have other effects.
[ ] Avoid taking the following medications:
________________
[ ] You may continue taking the following
medication(s) that your doctor(s) prescribed for you: _______________________________
[ ] Other instructions: ____________________________________
_____________________________________________________
- Provide the Emergency Department with the name and the
number of your primary care physician so that the ED can
send him or her a record of your emergency department visit.
- You or your physician can get more information on the
chemical by contacting: ____________ or _____________, or
by checking out the following Internet Web sites: ___________;__________.
Signature of patient _______________ Date ____________
Signature of physician _____________ Date ____________
Where can I get more information?
If you have questions or concerns, please contact your community or state health or environmental quality department or:
For more information, contact:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences
4770 Buford Highway
Chamblee, GA 30341-3717
Phone: 1-800-CDC-INFO 888-232-6348 (TTY)
Email: Contact CDC-INFO
ATSDR can also tell you the location of occupational and environmental health clinics. These clinics specialize in recognizing, evaluating, and treating illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances.