Primary |
Vanhanen |
2000 |
Norway |
HMW |
Biological enzyme |
Bacillus subtilis derived detergent enzymes (lipase, a-amylase, cellulase) |
Detergent industry workers |
Enzyme sensitization |
Encapsulation of enzyme, dust control (local exhaust ventilation), use of respiratory equipment (1980's) |
76 of 80 eligible subjects (Participation rate: 95%) |
Nine 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. |