Prevention of Work-related Asthma: Study Search Results

Study Details
Prevention LevelPrimary
AuthorVanhanen
Study Year2000
CountryNorway
Molecular Weight of AgentHMW
CategoryBiological enzyme
AgentBacillus subtilis derived detergent enzymes (lipase, a-amylase, cellulase)
OccupationDetergent industry workers
Outcome/DiagnosisEnzyme sensitization
Activity InterventionEncapsulation of enzyme, dust control (local exhaust ventilation), use of respiratory equipment (1980's)
Participation Rate76 of 80 eligible subjects (Participation rate: 95%)
Intervention EffectivenessNine of 40 exposed subjects were sensitized (22%). This is in comparison to the prevelances reported in the detergent industry in the early 1970's that ranged from 5% to 40%. None of the non-exposed workers (n=36) were sensitized. Certain areas of production line had concentrations of protease above ACGIH-TLV.
Page last reviewed: May 25, 2022