Persistently elevated polychlorinated biphenyl levels from residual contamination of workplace surfaces

Am J Ind Med. 1986;10(2):143-51. doi: 10.1002/ajim.4700100205.

Abstract

A short-term follow-up study was performed on 55 workers in a gear plant exposed to PCB that contaminated the work surfaces. Current work did not involve the use of PCBs. Exposure was to residual PCB left behind by a capacitor company which formerly used the site. Elevated PCB levels were found in production area workers; these elevations persisted on retesting 1 year later. Efforts should be made to identify potentially toxic materials left behind on work surfaces of buildings before remodeling or reuse.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Environmental Exposure
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Occupational Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Polychlorinated Biphenyls / adverse effects*
  • Polychlorinated Biphenyls / blood
  • Risk

Substances

  • Polychlorinated Biphenyls