Prevention of Work-related Asthma: Study Search Results

Study Details
Prevention LevelPrimary
AuthorPetsonk
Study Year2000
CountryUSA
Molecular Weight of AgentLMW
CategoryDiisocyanates
AgentMethylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI)
OccupationWorkers in a new wood products manufacturing plant
Outcome/DiagnosisNew-onset asthma like symptoms
Activity InterventionNewly constructed plant designed and operated with goal to minimize exposure: engineering controls, personal protection program, respiratory protection using positive pressure air-supply hoods, medical screening program
Participation Rate144 of 277 eligible subjects (Participation rate: 52%)
Intervention EffectivenessDespite efforts to protect subjects, new-onset asthma-like symptoms during the first 2 years of operation was reported in 15 of 56 subjects in areas with highest potential exposures to liquid MDI, versus 0 of 43 subjects in the lowest potential exposure areas (p<0.01). Skin contact and clean-up activities were cited as a significant risks. Limitation: no comparison group.
Page last reviewed: May 25, 2022