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Blind faith & moist internal surfaces
"According to the A m e r i c a n Academy of A l l e rg y, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), the greatest danger of severe reactions occurs when latex comes in contact with moist areas of the body or internal surfaces."
STANDARD WATER TEST - Blind faith
"The FDA tests every batch of imported condoms as well, though imports account for very few condoms used in this country. Although the smallest hole the water test can find is 100 times bigger than the HIV virus, officials believe the water test is sufficient. "
-------
MOIST INTERNAL SURFACES
"According to the A m e r i c a n Academy of A l l e rg y, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), the greatest danger of severe reactions occurs when latex comes in contact with moist areas of the body or internal surfaces."
Did someone say 'moist internal surfaces'? I wonder what they could be?
___________
List of Chemicals
Listed here is a sampling of chemicals you may encounter in rubber plants and the health hazards which these chemicals may pose. This listing should be a starting point in helping you know more about the hazards you may be exposed to during the course of the work day. Through the joint action of workers finding out more about workplace hazards and working together to correct them, many workplace hazards can be eliminated.
The major sources of information for this section have been references (36 & 45) although many other sources have been consulted.
Accelerators:
These are substances added to the rubber batch to speed up the reaction between the rubber and curing agents. Included among this category are the following groups of chemicals: amines, guanidines, thiurams, thiozoles and dithiocarbamates group of chemicals.
• amines:
These chemicals are generally irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory organs whether as liquids, gas or aerosols. Hexamethylenetetramine and di-n-butylamine are two examples of this group of accelerators.
• guanidines:
N.N-diphenylguanidine(DPG)and N.N-di-o-tolyguanidine, two rubber chemicals in this group are both reported to cause irritation to the skin and eyes. USSR researchers who have studied DPG recommended limiting exposure to this substance to 0.5 -1.0 mg/m3.
• thiazoles:
These substances are used in very large quantities in rubber production. Many of the thiazole derivatives have skin sensitizing and irritant properties, which will cause dermatitis reactions. 2-mercaptobenzothiozole is said to be especially irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract.
• dithiocarbamates:
This group of accelerators also have been shown to be irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory organs. Two chemicals in this group, zincdimethyldithiocarbomate and zincdiethyldithiocarbomate have both been tested for carcinogenic properties in animal studies. Neither was found to be carcinogenic although further study was recommended.
• thiurams:
Thiurams are used not only as accelerators but also as curing agents. In general thiuram compounds and tetramethylthiuram disulphide CTMTD) in particular are irritating to the skin and mucous membrane. The toxicity of thiurams is greatly increased when they are combined with alcohol and symptoms include shortness of breath, palpitations of the heart and nausea. lnhalation and ingestion of large quantities of TMTD and tetraethylthiuram desulfide CTETD) have both been observed to cause liver, kidney, lung and spleen damage in experimental animals. The ACGIH TLV for eight hours of exposure to ThnTD is 5mg/m3 TWA and TETD2mg/m3MIA.
Antioxidants:
These substances are added during manufacturing to prevent cracking of the final rubber product.
• phenyl alpha-naphthylamine or (PAN) and phenyl beta-naphthylamine or (PBN):
Both of these chemicals are reported to be irritant to the skin. PAN is converted in the body to beta-naphthylamine, a well known carcinogen. All human exposure to this substance should therefore be avoided. Substitutes for these chemicals are available and should be utilized.
• 4.4-diaminodiphenylmethane:
This substance is also said to be a skin irritant. Liver damage and jaundice have also been reported in humans who have eaten bread contaminated with this substance. Apparently this substance can also be absorbed through the skin.
Activators:
Activators are added to the rubber mixture in order to stimulate the accelerators. This group includes inorganic substances such as zinc oxide, magnesium, lead or calcium oxide and sometimes organic substances such as zinc stearate.
• zinc oxide:
This substance can be irritating to the mucous membrane although tests show that chronic poisoning cannot occur through inhalation. Irritation reportedly does not occur below a TLV level of 5 mg/m3. Under poor hygienic conditions however zinc oxide on the skin can result in a dermatitis condition which results from plugging of the sweat glands.
• magnesium oxide:
The dust is irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes when inhaled.
• lead oxide:
Chronic poisoning can result from inhalation or absorption in the intestine of lead oxide. Low level lead exposure affects blood formation and can affect both male and female reproduction. Historically rubber compounding involved very high exposure to lead. Much smaller quantities of lead are now used in the rubber industry. The US OSHA standard for lead is.05 mg/m3.
• calcium oxide:
Dusts of calcium oxide are very irritating to the eyes, mucous membranes and moist skin. The inhalation of large quantities of dust has, among other things, given rise to inflammation of the respiratory tract and wounds in the nasal mucous membrane. A TLV of 2 mg/m3 is recommended by the ACGIH.
Antitack Agents:
These chemicals, which include talc and stear34ates such as cadmium, lead zinc, are used to prevent the milled rubber from sticking to itself.
• zinc stearate:
Inhalation of large quantities of zinc stearate dusts have in a few cases given rise to pneumoconiosis. This substance has also been reported to be irritating to the skin and eyes. The ACGIH TLV for this substance is 10 mg/m3 but because irritating effects appear at low dust levels authors of a Swedish report recommend a TLV of 5 mg/m3.
• talc:
Certain talc may contain quartz and asbestoid-like material such as scripetine, tremolite and anthophyllite. The term industrial grade talc refers to a mixture of minerals that meet certain physical requirements rather than a substance with a fixed chemical composition. Heavy exposure to talc can result in the lung disease talcosis. Inhalation of talc dust can, after prolonged exposure, result in respiratory impairment and particularly chronic bronchitis and deteriorating lung function. These diseases are much more likely to occur when talc exposure is combined with smoking. The current ACGIH TLV is 20 mppcf, but scientists who have studied the rubber industry recommend this level be reduced to 0.25 mg/m3. Talc dust can often be reduced by moistening the talc.
Bonding Agents:
These substances are used to facilitate the bonding between the fibre sheets and the rubber during the calendering operation.
•resorcinol:
Resorcinol can be irritating to the eyes, skin and throat. Dissolved in certain solvents, resorcinol can easily be absorbed through the skin and will give rise to symptoms of poisoning. The TLV of 45mg/m3 or 10ppm is recommended by the ACGIH but the British General and Municipal Workers Union reports that this level does not protect against irritation. 35
• aldehydes:
Aldehydes including formaldehyde are used in the preparation of resins and bonding systems and may be released as by-products of rubber and plastics processing. Aldehydes are strong irritants which cause chemical burns on contact with the eyes, skin and respiratory system. Skin allergies may develop from long-term exposure to aldehydes. Formaldehyde has also been shown to be an animal carcinogen and warrants special handling during use.
Fillers:
• carbon black:
By weight, the most common substance added in the compounding and mixing operation is carbon black. There have been conflicting views on the toxicity of this chemical compound because it is known to contain certain trace amounts of PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), some of which, when extracted and isolated are known carcinogens. Some studies suggest that PAHs are bound to carbon black so tightly that they present no health danger, other studies however indicate that under certain conditions PAHs are released and may cause leukemia. Animal experiments indicate that exposure to carbon black may also increase the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown carbon black to be a skin and respiratory irritant which can cause dermatitis and temporary or permanent lung damage. It is recommended that the 8 hr. exposure to carbon black be maintained below 3.5 mg/m3 by the ACGIH and OSHA. Exposures to carbon black can occur through leaks in the conveyor system and banbury mixers, as well as spillage. It is important that care be taken with this substance.
Retarders:
•Nitrosamines (N-nitrosodiphenylamine)
Many nitrosamines are potent carcinogens but until recently this nitrosamine used as a retarder was not considered harmful. Recent experiments with rats indicted N-nitrosodiphenylam ine as a cause of cancer in the test animals. This substance also combines with other rubber chemicals to form other nitrosamines especially N-nitrosomorpholne which is linked with liver and respiratory cancer and kidney tumours. Nitrosamines are generated where rubber stock is heated. The calendering area is one location where high levels of nitrosamines are found. Warehousing, milling and extruding are other areas where these substances are released. Because of being a potential human carcinogen contact should be avoided. New recipes which do not use nitrosamines are available.
Solvents
Solvents are widely used in rubber plants for a variety of purposes including cleaning and in rubber cements. There are two principal ways your exposure to solvents can occur. With the use of solvent mixtures, whether in the building of tires or the cleaning of machinery, large volumes vapours will be created. If you inhale these vapours, they can then cause irritation to the respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs) and eventually enter your lungs where the solvents are absorbed into the bloodstream. In addition solvents splashed onto your skin can cause immediate skin damage or in some cases can pass through the skin and again enter your bloodstream. Once in your blood solvents can be transported throughout your body and potentially cause damage to a variety of organs and tissues.
The two parts of your body most often affected by solvent exposure are the skin and the nervous system. Organic solvents dissolve the protective fat and oil layers on the skin and can cause dryness, cracking, redness and blisters. This condition is called dermatitis. Dermatitis is a disease and not just a temporary annoyance. It can be severe enough to cause lost time.
Like skin, nerve cells are especially vulnerable to solvents. The results are dizziness and headaches; with (sufficient) exposure, co-ordination and balance can be affected, leading to an increase in accidents. These symptoms, which reflect the transport of solvents to the brain, are called central nervous system depression, anesthesia and narcosis.
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons:
This group of solvents, which are cheap and widely used, include pentane, hexane and heptane. These substances are rarely used by themselves but occur in mixtures together or with other solvents.
• pentane:
Vapours of this solvent have been observed throughout rubber plants. Sufficient concentrations of pentane will cause narcosis and like other solvents it can create dermatitis when skin contact occurs. The ACGIH recommended TLV for pentane is 600ppm or 1,800 mg/m3.
• hexane:
This solvent tends to be present in rubber plants at levels higher than many of the other solvents in use. Commercial grades of this substance also often contain benzene (see below). Hexane can enter the body through inhalation of vapours and can cause dermatitis as well as irritation of the upper respiratory tract. Acute exposure to fumes of this solvent can also cause nausea, headaches and dizziness. Damage to the nerves in the arms and legs (peripheral neuropathy) has been reported caused by excess hexane exposure. The 8 hr. ACGIH TLV for hexane was recently recommended reduced from 100ppm to 50ppm.
• heptane:
Heptane vapours were found to be higher than most other solvents during sampling at rubber plants. The extrusion area in particular had high levels of heptane vapour. This substance can cause dermatitis and mucous membrane irritation. Exposure to high concentration can result in narcosis, lack of coordination, intoxication, nausea and appetite loss. The recommended TLV is 400ppm or 1,600 mg/m3.
Aromatic Hydrocarbons:
These solvents dissolve a large number of industrial materials and evaporate quickly.
• benzene:
Benzene was formerly the primary solvent used in the rubber industry. Today it is still used in many solvent mixtures. Short term exposure to benzene may cause irritation to the nose, throat and lungs. It can also affect the nervous system, causing headaches, dizziness and slurred speech. At high levels of inhalation shallow breathing and death can result. Death has occurred after exposure to 20.000ppm for five to ten minutes or 7.500ppm for 30 minutes.
Skin irritation, including redness and blistering can occur with skin contact. It is also absorbed very slowly through the skin.
Long term exposure to this substance -- even at low concentrations -- can cause a number of symptoms including appetite loss, nausea, fatigue, headaches and dizziness.
Mild anemia has been reported after exposure to 25ppm for several years and 100ppm for three months. At levels of 100ppm and 200ppm for periods of six months, or more, severe irreversible blood changes and damage to the liver and heart can occur. Benzene is a known carcinogen and it has been linked to increased risk of several forms of leukemia. In May 1977 the National Institute of Occupation Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommended that the TLV for benzene be reduced from 10ppm to 1ppm because of its carcinogenicity. NIOSH recommended that exposure to benzene be kept as low as possible and that the use of benzene as a solvent or dilutent in open operations should be prohibited. This standard of 1ppm was legally challenged by industry groups and never enforced.
Although some rubber companies said they expected to meet the 1ppm recommendation, the established TLV remains at l0ppm.
Sampling in rubber plants reveals that the level of benzene in the air is generally slightly greater than the NIOSH recommended standard of 1ppm. Researchers investigating solvent use in the rubber industry found that in order to maintain benzene vapour below 1ppm, mixtures of solvents could not contain greater than 0.1% benzene (27).
• toluene:
This solvent, which is the major substitute for benzene, cannot be considered a completely safe alternative even though it has not been proven to be carcinogenic. The harmf ul effects of toluene include irritation of eyes, respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs) and skin. Repeated or prolonged contact with the liquid can cause removal of all the natural oils from the skin resulting in dry, cracked skin. When splashed in the eyes, it can cause irritation and reversible damage. Acute exposure above the TLV of 100ppm can result in central nervous system depressions with symptoms including headache, dizziness, fatigue and muscular weakness as well as drowsiness and incoordination.
• xylene:
Short term exposure to xylene via inhalation of vapour can be irritating to the nose and throat while concentrations of 200ppm for 3.5 minutes can lead to xylene intoxication. Symptoms include headache, dizziness and nausea. Vapour and liquid can also be irritating to the eye and eyelids at levels of 100ppm for 15 minutes. Long term exposure will also cause headaches, dizziness and nausea and it has been reported to cause liver and kidney damage as well as intestinal tract disturbances and nervous system depression. These effects will apparently disappear after removal from the source of xylene.
The recommended TLV for this substance is 100ppm over an eight hour work day, although it should be noted that eye irritation has been shown to be possible at this level of exposure after only 15 minutes.
"The FDA tests every batch of imported condoms as well, though imports account for very few condoms used in this country. Although the smallest hole the water test can find is 100 times bigger than the HIV virus, officials believe the water test is sufficient. "
-------
MOIST INTERNAL SURFACES
"According to the A m e r i c a n Academy of A l l e rg y, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), the greatest danger of severe reactions occurs when latex comes in contact with moist areas of the body or internal surfaces."
Did someone say 'moist internal surfaces'? I wonder what they could be?
___________
List of Chemicals
Listed here is a sampling of chemicals you may encounter in rubber plants and the health hazards which these chemicals may pose. This listing should be a starting point in helping you know more about the hazards you may be exposed to during the course of the work day. Through the joint action of workers finding out more about workplace hazards and working together to correct them, many workplace hazards can be eliminated.
The major sources of information for this section have been references (36 & 45) although many other sources have been consulted.
Accelerators:
These are substances added to the rubber batch to speed up the reaction between the rubber and curing agents. Included among this category are the following groups of chemicals: amines, guanidines, thiurams, thiozoles and dithiocarbamates group of chemicals.
• amines:
These chemicals are generally irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory organs whether as liquids, gas or aerosols. Hexamethylenetetramine and di-n-butylamine are two examples of this group of accelerators.
• guanidines:
N.N-diphenylguanidine(DPG)and N.N-di-o-tolyguanidine, two rubber chemicals in this group are both reported to cause irritation to the skin and eyes. USSR researchers who have studied DPG recommended limiting exposure to this substance to 0.5 -1.0 mg/m3.
• thiazoles:
These substances are used in very large quantities in rubber production. Many of the thiazole derivatives have skin sensitizing and irritant properties, which will cause dermatitis reactions. 2-mercaptobenzothiozole is said to be especially irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract.
• dithiocarbamates:
This group of accelerators also have been shown to be irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory organs. Two chemicals in this group, zincdimethyldithiocarbomate and zincdiethyldithiocarbomate have both been tested for carcinogenic properties in animal studies. Neither was found to be carcinogenic although further study was recommended.
• thiurams:
Thiurams are used not only as accelerators but also as curing agents. In general thiuram compounds and tetramethylthiuram disulphide CTMTD) in particular are irritating to the skin and mucous membrane. The toxicity of thiurams is greatly increased when they are combined with alcohol and symptoms include shortness of breath, palpitations of the heart and nausea. lnhalation and ingestion of large quantities of TMTD and tetraethylthiuram desulfide CTETD) have both been observed to cause liver, kidney, lung and spleen damage in experimental animals. The ACGIH TLV for eight hours of exposure to ThnTD is 5mg/m3 TWA and TETD2mg/m3MIA.
Antioxidants:
These substances are added during manufacturing to prevent cracking of the final rubber product.
• phenyl alpha-naphthylamine or (PAN) and phenyl beta-naphthylamine or (PBN):
Both of these chemicals are reported to be irritant to the skin. PAN is converted in the body to beta-naphthylamine, a well known carcinogen. All human exposure to this substance should therefore be avoided. Substitutes for these chemicals are available and should be utilized.
• 4.4-diaminodiphenylmethane:
This substance is also said to be a skin irritant. Liver damage and jaundice have also been reported in humans who have eaten bread contaminated with this substance. Apparently this substance can also be absorbed through the skin.
Activators:
Activators are added to the rubber mixture in order to stimulate the accelerators. This group includes inorganic substances such as zinc oxide, magnesium, lead or calcium oxide and sometimes organic substances such as zinc stearate.
• zinc oxide:
This substance can be irritating to the mucous membrane although tests show that chronic poisoning cannot occur through inhalation. Irritation reportedly does not occur below a TLV level of 5 mg/m3. Under poor hygienic conditions however zinc oxide on the skin can result in a dermatitis condition which results from plugging of the sweat glands.
• magnesium oxide:
The dust is irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes when inhaled.
• lead oxide:
Chronic poisoning can result from inhalation or absorption in the intestine of lead oxide. Low level lead exposure affects blood formation and can affect both male and female reproduction. Historically rubber compounding involved very high exposure to lead. Much smaller quantities of lead are now used in the rubber industry. The US OSHA standard for lead is.05 mg/m3.
• calcium oxide:
Dusts of calcium oxide are very irritating to the eyes, mucous membranes and moist skin. The inhalation of large quantities of dust has, among other things, given rise to inflammation of the respiratory tract and wounds in the nasal mucous membrane. A TLV of 2 mg/m3 is recommended by the ACGIH.
Antitack Agents:
These chemicals, which include talc and stear34ates such as cadmium, lead zinc, are used to prevent the milled rubber from sticking to itself.
• zinc stearate:
Inhalation of large quantities of zinc stearate dusts have in a few cases given rise to pneumoconiosis. This substance has also been reported to be irritating to the skin and eyes. The ACGIH TLV for this substance is 10 mg/m3 but because irritating effects appear at low dust levels authors of a Swedish report recommend a TLV of 5 mg/m3.
• talc:
Certain talc may contain quartz and asbestoid-like material such as scripetine, tremolite and anthophyllite. The term industrial grade talc refers to a mixture of minerals that meet certain physical requirements rather than a substance with a fixed chemical composition. Heavy exposure to talc can result in the lung disease talcosis. Inhalation of talc dust can, after prolonged exposure, result in respiratory impairment and particularly chronic bronchitis and deteriorating lung function. These diseases are much more likely to occur when talc exposure is combined with smoking. The current ACGIH TLV is 20 mppcf, but scientists who have studied the rubber industry recommend this level be reduced to 0.25 mg/m3. Talc dust can often be reduced by moistening the talc.
Bonding Agents:
These substances are used to facilitate the bonding between the fibre sheets and the rubber during the calendering operation.
•resorcinol:
Resorcinol can be irritating to the eyes, skin and throat. Dissolved in certain solvents, resorcinol can easily be absorbed through the skin and will give rise to symptoms of poisoning. The TLV of 45mg/m3 or 10ppm is recommended by the ACGIH but the British General and Municipal Workers Union reports that this level does not protect against irritation. 35
• aldehydes:
Aldehydes including formaldehyde are used in the preparation of resins and bonding systems and may be released as by-products of rubber and plastics processing. Aldehydes are strong irritants which cause chemical burns on contact with the eyes, skin and respiratory system. Skin allergies may develop from long-term exposure to aldehydes. Formaldehyde has also been shown to be an animal carcinogen and warrants special handling during use.
Fillers:
• carbon black:
By weight, the most common substance added in the compounding and mixing operation is carbon black. There have been conflicting views on the toxicity of this chemical compound because it is known to contain certain trace amounts of PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), some of which, when extracted and isolated are known carcinogens. Some studies suggest that PAHs are bound to carbon black so tightly that they present no health danger, other studies however indicate that under certain conditions PAHs are released and may cause leukemia. Animal experiments indicate that exposure to carbon black may also increase the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown carbon black to be a skin and respiratory irritant which can cause dermatitis and temporary or permanent lung damage. It is recommended that the 8 hr. exposure to carbon black be maintained below 3.5 mg/m3 by the ACGIH and OSHA. Exposures to carbon black can occur through leaks in the conveyor system and banbury mixers, as well as spillage. It is important that care be taken with this substance.
Retarders:
•Nitrosamines (N-nitrosodiphenylamine)
Many nitrosamines are potent carcinogens but until recently this nitrosamine used as a retarder was not considered harmful. Recent experiments with rats indicted N-nitrosodiphenylam ine as a cause of cancer in the test animals. This substance also combines with other rubber chemicals to form other nitrosamines especially N-nitrosomorpholne which is linked with liver and respiratory cancer and kidney tumours. Nitrosamines are generated where rubber stock is heated. The calendering area is one location where high levels of nitrosamines are found. Warehousing, milling and extruding are other areas where these substances are released. Because of being a potential human carcinogen contact should be avoided. New recipes which do not use nitrosamines are available.
Solvents
Solvents are widely used in rubber plants for a variety of purposes including cleaning and in rubber cements. There are two principal ways your exposure to solvents can occur. With the use of solvent mixtures, whether in the building of tires or the cleaning of machinery, large volumes vapours will be created. If you inhale these vapours, they can then cause irritation to the respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs) and eventually enter your lungs where the solvents are absorbed into the bloodstream. In addition solvents splashed onto your skin can cause immediate skin damage or in some cases can pass through the skin and again enter your bloodstream. Once in your blood solvents can be transported throughout your body and potentially cause damage to a variety of organs and tissues.
The two parts of your body most often affected by solvent exposure are the skin and the nervous system. Organic solvents dissolve the protective fat and oil layers on the skin and can cause dryness, cracking, redness and blisters. This condition is called dermatitis. Dermatitis is a disease and not just a temporary annoyance. It can be severe enough to cause lost time.
Like skin, nerve cells are especially vulnerable to solvents. The results are dizziness and headaches; with (sufficient) exposure, co-ordination and balance can be affected, leading to an increase in accidents. These symptoms, which reflect the transport of solvents to the brain, are called central nervous system depression, anesthesia and narcosis.
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons:
This group of solvents, which are cheap and widely used, include pentane, hexane and heptane. These substances are rarely used by themselves but occur in mixtures together or with other solvents.
• pentane:
Vapours of this solvent have been observed throughout rubber plants. Sufficient concentrations of pentane will cause narcosis and like other solvents it can create dermatitis when skin contact occurs. The ACGIH recommended TLV for pentane is 600ppm or 1,800 mg/m3.
• hexane:
This solvent tends to be present in rubber plants at levels higher than many of the other solvents in use. Commercial grades of this substance also often contain benzene (see below). Hexane can enter the body through inhalation of vapours and can cause dermatitis as well as irritation of the upper respiratory tract. Acute exposure to fumes of this solvent can also cause nausea, headaches and dizziness. Damage to the nerves in the arms and legs (peripheral neuropathy) has been reported caused by excess hexane exposure. The 8 hr. ACGIH TLV for hexane was recently recommended reduced from 100ppm to 50ppm.
• heptane:
Heptane vapours were found to be higher than most other solvents during sampling at rubber plants. The extrusion area in particular had high levels of heptane vapour. This substance can cause dermatitis and mucous membrane irritation. Exposure to high concentration can result in narcosis, lack of coordination, intoxication, nausea and appetite loss. The recommended TLV is 400ppm or 1,600 mg/m3.
Aromatic Hydrocarbons:
These solvents dissolve a large number of industrial materials and evaporate quickly.
• benzene:
Benzene was formerly the primary solvent used in the rubber industry. Today it is still used in many solvent mixtures. Short term exposure to benzene may cause irritation to the nose, throat and lungs. It can also affect the nervous system, causing headaches, dizziness and slurred speech. At high levels of inhalation shallow breathing and death can result. Death has occurred after exposure to 20.000ppm for five to ten minutes or 7.500ppm for 30 minutes.
Skin irritation, including redness and blistering can occur with skin contact. It is also absorbed very slowly through the skin.
Long term exposure to this substance -- even at low concentrations -- can cause a number of symptoms including appetite loss, nausea, fatigue, headaches and dizziness.
Mild anemia has been reported after exposure to 25ppm for several years and 100ppm for three months. At levels of 100ppm and 200ppm for periods of six months, or more, severe irreversible blood changes and damage to the liver and heart can occur. Benzene is a known carcinogen and it has been linked to increased risk of several forms of leukemia. In May 1977 the National Institute of Occupation Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommended that the TLV for benzene be reduced from 10ppm to 1ppm because of its carcinogenicity. NIOSH recommended that exposure to benzene be kept as low as possible and that the use of benzene as a solvent or dilutent in open operations should be prohibited. This standard of 1ppm was legally challenged by industry groups and never enforced.
Although some rubber companies said they expected to meet the 1ppm recommendation, the established TLV remains at l0ppm.
Sampling in rubber plants reveals that the level of benzene in the air is generally slightly greater than the NIOSH recommended standard of 1ppm. Researchers investigating solvent use in the rubber industry found that in order to maintain benzene vapour below 1ppm, mixtures of solvents could not contain greater than 0.1% benzene (27).
• toluene:
This solvent, which is the major substitute for benzene, cannot be considered a completely safe alternative even though it has not been proven to be carcinogenic. The harmf ul effects of toluene include irritation of eyes, respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs) and skin. Repeated or prolonged contact with the liquid can cause removal of all the natural oils from the skin resulting in dry, cracked skin. When splashed in the eyes, it can cause irritation and reversible damage. Acute exposure above the TLV of 100ppm can result in central nervous system depressions with symptoms including headache, dizziness, fatigue and muscular weakness as well as drowsiness and incoordination.
• xylene:
Short term exposure to xylene via inhalation of vapour can be irritating to the nose and throat while concentrations of 200ppm for 3.5 minutes can lead to xylene intoxication. Symptoms include headache, dizziness and nausea. Vapour and liquid can also be irritating to the eye and eyelids at levels of 100ppm for 15 minutes. Long term exposure will also cause headaches, dizziness and nausea and it has been reported to cause liver and kidney damage as well as intestinal tract disturbances and nervous system depression. These effects will apparently disappear after removal from the source of xylene.
The recommended TLV for this substance is 100ppm over an eight hour work day, although it should be noted that eye irritation has been shown to be possible at this level of exposure after only 15 minutes.
For more information:
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But I need also to talk about THIS nonsense (because it affects MUCH more than AIDS and condoms).
"Although the smallest hole the water test can find is 100 times bigger than the HIV virus, officials believe the water test is sufficient. "
UH --- WHAT gives you the idea that water will not relatively easliy pass through a membrane or filter capable of stopping things the size of a virus.
a) First of all, physical size of "holes" and "effective" size of holes is a very different matter. Thus when I test my "absolute" 0.2 micron water filter with 0.1 micron diameter dye particles they DON'T get through. That's because the holes aren't straight even passges and the particles don't have "eyes" to guide them around twists and turns -- if they hit the sides they tend to lodge (and eventually your filter gets too clogged to work and you need to buy a new one).
b) For fixed base camp (like when I'm caretaking) I use a gravity filter setup with an old "clogged" filter canister. It's probably down to 0.05 microns or below (far too clogged to use with the pump -- would be pitifully slow). But water DOES get through, about a gallon an hour at an 8' head.
c) WHO told you "a hundred times" and why do you trust that? Water doesn't "seep" through a membrane a hundred times typical virus sizes, it pours through. To give you an example, the filter in the gas line of your car has a pore size like that (probably about 10 microns).
The FDA said that. Satisfied?
You say most Americans don't suffer from latex allergy. You forget to mention that 18 million do. Everyone is subject to the carcinogent, toxins and terntogens which are in addition to the toxic proteins.
More data: -
A condom is made of rubber (latex), a hydrocarbon compound with polymerization, which means that it is fibrous and porous like woven cloth. By means of an electronic microscope the pores of the condom can be seen in a non-stretched state with a width of 1/60 micron, while the HIV/AIDS virus has a width of 1/250 micron. When the condom is stretched the pores of the condom are 10 times as wide as that of the virus; in other words, the virus can go through the wall of the condom. The condom was designed for family planning (to strain sperm, not viruses); and a condom is not meant for fornication/prostitution.
Research carried out in the U.S. on 89 condoms in circulation on the market proved that 29 out of 89 leaked, which means that the leakage was about 30 %. In Indonesia condoms imported from Hong Kong in 1996 were withdrawn from market because 50 % leaked. In practice in the field there is often failure of condoms use for family planning because of leakage, let alone for fornication/prostitution. As a comparison, sperm are as large as oranges and viruses as large as a period (dot).
Another examination conducted in the U.S. ( the Physical Division of Human Sciences, Maryland, USA, 1992) showed that particles as minute as viruses can be detected going through the wall of condoms.
In every condom there are 0.4 % pinhole, microscopic defect in the manufacturing process. The area of the condom is 80 cm2 and if you count 32,000 pinhole in each condom, and if each pinhole is 1/1000 micron, you can imagine the total number of pinholes in a condom.
At the same time an expert of the University of Utah, Professor Victor Cline, state in 1995 that if we believe that by using condoms we are protected from sexually transmitted diseases including the HIV/AIDS virus, we really have gone astray.
THE SPERM VS. THE AIDS VIRUS
A paper in the February 1992 issue of Applied and Environmental Microbiology reports that filtration techniques show the HIV-1 virus to be 0.1 micron (4 millionths of an inch) in diameter. It is three times smaller than the herpes virus, 60 times smaller than the syphilis
spirochete, and 50 to 450 times smaller than sperm. (8)
THE FLAWED CONDOM
Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) researchers, using powerful electron microscopes, have found that new latex, from which
condoms are fabricated, contains "maximum inherent flaw[s]" (that is, holes) 70 microns in diameter. (9)
These holes are 700 times larger than the HIV-1 virus. There are pores in latex, and some of the pores are large enough to pass sperm-sized particles. Carey, et al., observed leakage of HIV-sized particles through 33%+ of the latex condoms tested. In addition, as Gordon points out in his review, the testing procedures for condoms are less than desirable. United States condom manufacturers are allowed 0.4% leaky condoms (AQL). Gordon states, "The fluctuations in sampling permits many batches not meeting AQL to be sold." In the United
States, 12% of domestic and 21% of imported batches of condoms have failed to meet the 0.4% AQL. (10)
CONDOMS FAIL TESTING
In a 1988 study sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, Bruce Voeller of the Mariposa Foundation in Topanga, California, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, ranked 31 brands of latex condoms according to how well they met the U.S. and international quality assurance standards designed to ensure that condoms provide an effective
barrier against human sperm.
"Many of the condoms now on the market would not get FDA approval if they were required to meet today’s standards," says
Voeller. Although all condoms sold in the U.S.are supposed to pass quality assurance tests, those marketed before 1976 need not meet the more stringent requirements necessary to win FDA marketing approval. (11)
Dr. Collart reports that "Gotszche and Hording in their study of in vivo [real life] condom failure rates concluded ‘Condoms to
prevent HIV transmission do not imply truly safe sex.’ In addition Steiner, et al., observed newer lots of condoms had actual breakage rates of 3.5-8.8%, while actual breakage rates for older lots ranged from 9.8-18.6%. In a study conducted by Ahmed, et al., 29%-42% of those who had used condoms experienced at least one breakage. In a survey conducted by the University of Manchester, 52% of those who had
obtained condoms from their family planning clinic had one or more either burst or slip off in the 3 months before the survey. In
studies by Albert, et al., and by Wright, et al., 36% and 38% of their respondents reported condom failures respectively." (12)
CONDOM + SPERMICIDE
Some have advocated the use of spermicide containing nonoxynol-9 in the prevention of HIV infection. However, the protective effects of nonoxynol-9 have not been established in vivo for any of the viral STDs. Some reports suggest that spermicides (including nonoxynol-9) may be associated with irritation and ulceration of genital and rectal epithelia, side-effects that may actually facilitate HIV infection.
In a study with Nairobi prostitutes, a higher rate of new HIV infections was found among women using nonoxynol-9 than among those not using it. Additionally, in a study of rhesus monkeys who were exposed to a high dose of simian immunodeficiency virus following vaginally inserted nonoxynol-9 foam, half the monkeys developed an infection. (13, 14, 15, 16)
CONDOM CLIMATE CONTROL
Condoms are sensitive to heat and cold, yet they are not normally transported in climate-controlled vehicles. Vesey, in his study ofcondoms,checked 72,000 trucks and has actual photographs of eggs frying in the backs of trucks used for condom distribution.
Partly due to Vesey’s study, Burlington County, NJ, banned the distribution of condoms at the county’s AIDS counselling center, because they concluded that the risk of liability for condom failures was too great. (17)
RISKY BUSINESS
The United States Public Health Service states that sexual relations, even with a condom, with a person who is
HIV-positive is so risky that alternative methods of expressing physical intimacy should be considered. Additionally, Public Health Services warns that the rate of HIV transmission in anal intercourse is so high that the practice should be avoided. (27)
PANACEA OR PLACEBO?
In conclusion, Herbert Ratner, M.D., offers the best summary of all when he says,
Actually, the major accomplishment of the condom campaign to prevent AIDS is to impress the promoters, politicians and the public at large that something is being done; and although well-intentioned, it offers more of a placebo than a panacea.
Publicizing the condom to the four winds is, for the most part, the bravura of a puritan who is trying to prove to the world
that he is not a puritan. To concentrate on the mechanical aspects of the sex act to the exclusion of the emotional and psychological aspects (which the condom campaign ignores) is the essence of Puritanism. The only difference between the new and the old is that whereas the traditional puritans were alleged to believe that sex was something to be isolated and repressed, neo-puritans accept sex as something to be isolated and exercised. (28)
Reviewed by Joel McIlhaney, M.D., of the Medical Institute for Sexual Health
NOTES
1.Weller, Susan C., "A Meta-Analysis of Condom Effectiveness in Reducing Sexually Transmitted HIV," Social Science and
Medicine, Vol. 36, #12, June 1993, pp. 1635-1644.
2.Smith, Richard W., The Condom: Is It Really Safe Sex? (unpublished, October 1990) pp. 8-9.
3.Collart, David G., M.D., Condom Failure for Protection From Sexual Transmission of the HIV: A Review of the Medical
Literature, Feb. 16 1993.
4.Zenilman, Jonathan, et al., "Condom Use to Prevent Incident STDs: The Validity of Self-Reported Condom Use," Sexually
Transmitted Diseases, Jan.-Feb. 1995, pp.15-21;
5.Ravenel S. duBose, M.D., "Comments and Observations," Aug. 5, 1995.
6.Joel McIlhaney, Jr., M.D., "Chlamydia Trachomatis; The Most Common Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Disease in the United
States," Medical Institute for Sexual Health Sexual Health Update, Vol. 3, #3, Fall, 1995.
7.Friedman and Trivelli, "Condom Availability for Youth: A High Risk Alternative," Pediatrics, 2/97, p. 285.
8.Lytle, C. D., et al., "Filtration Sizes of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 and Surrogate Viruses Used to Test Barrier
Materials," Applied and Environmental Microbiology, Vol. 58, #2, Feb. 1992.
9."Anomalous Fatigue Behavior in Polysoprene," Rubber Chemistry and Technology, Vol. 62, #4, Sep.-Oct. 1989.
10.Collart, David G., M.D., loc. cit.
11.Nowak, Rachel, "Research Reveals Condom Conundrums," The Journal of NIH Research, Vol. 5, Jan. 1993, pp. 32, 33.
12.Collart, David G., M.D., op. cit.
13.Bird, K.D., AIDS, Vol. 5, pp. 791-796, 1991.
14.Voeller, B., AIDS, Vol. 6, pp. 341-342, 1992.
15.Kreiss, J.; Ruminjo, I.; Ngugi, E.; Roberts, P.; Ndinya-Achola, J.; and Plummer, F., 1989 V International Conference on AIDS,
Montreal.
16.Miller, C.J.; Alexander, N.J.; Sutjipto, S.; et al., J. Med. Primatol, Vol. 19, pp. 401-409, 1990.
17.Vesey, W.B., HLI Reports, Vol. 9, pp. 1-4, 1991.
18.April, K., and Schreiner, W., Schweiz. med. Wschr., Vol. 120, pp. 972-978, 1990.
19.Frosner, G.G., 1989, Infection, Vol. 17, pp. 1-3.
20.Fischl, M.A.; Dickinson, G.M.; Segsl, A.; Flanagan, S.; and Rodriguez, M.; Presentation THP. 92, III International Conference
on
AIDS in Washington D.C., 1-5 June, p. 178, 1987.
21.Klimes, I., et al., AIDS Care, Vol. 4, p. 151, 1992.
22.Detels, R.; English, P.; Visscher, B.R.; Jacobson, L.; Kingsley, L.A.; Chmiel, J.S.; Dudley, J.P.; Eldred, L.J.; and Ginzburg,
H.M.;Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, Vol. 2, pp. 77-83, 1989.
23.Gordon, R., loc. cit.
24.Joffe, G.P.; Foxman, B.; Schmidt, A.J.; Farris, K.B.; Carter, R.J.; Neumann, S.; Tolo, K.-A.; and Walters, A.M.; 1992, Sexually
Transmitted Diseases, Vol. 19, pp. 272-278.
25.Cohen, D.A.; Dent, C.; MacKinnon, D.; and Hahn, G.; Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Vol. 19, pp. 245-251, 1992.
26.Frösner, G.G., loc. cit.
27.Byer, C.O., and Shainberg, L.W., Dimensions of Human Sexuality, Wm. C. Brown Publishers, 1991.
28.Ratner, Herbert, M.D., "Condoms and AIDS," ALL About Issues, Feb. 1989, p. 36.
Latex proteins are only one of a great many problems with latex. These include 41 toxins, 3 carcinogens, 2 suspected carcinogens and at least one known teratogen. Latex condoms have more toxic agents then any other product used internally by a substantial factor.
CONDOM INDUSTRY QUOTES
"...... new concerns are arising regarding allergic or other toxic reactions to various components of latex condoms such as vulcanization accelerators, latex proteins, spermicides and finishing powders."
"* Studies are needed to evaluate the best lubricants to use in the manufacture of condoms. Evidence suggests that the right quantity, type and placement of lubricant is important for condom functionality, acceptability and safety. In addition, the added value and risk presented by spermicidal lubricants and by dry finishing powders (e.g. talc or cornstarch) should be critically examined."
"Since the late 1980s the reported incidence
of allergy to natural rubber latex has increased dramatically, as much as 12 -fold."
"Latex allergy is incurable, although the symptoms, such as itching, soreness, painful blistering, runny noses, swollen eyes, asthma symptoms and anaphylaxis can be ameliorated.
Everyone who has contact wi th natural rubber latex is potentially at risk from sensitisation. Both patients and health care workers can be at risk from allergic reactions to natural rubber latex. Over the past decade, allergic reactions to natural
rubber latex have become a major public health concern."
" Once a person has developed latex allergy, however mild, they are “sensitised” to latex and are at risk from severe allergic reactions."
"Delayed cell-mediated reactions are the most common form of hypersensitivity reaction to natural rubber latex. These reactions are to individual chemical residues from the production process such as accelerants used in the vulcanisation process which is required to strengthen the product. The residual chemicals may bloo on the surface of the products and can be absorbed through the skin upon contact."
Condoms contain compounds known to cause cancer and serious birth defects in substantial quantities
SOURCE. Condom Industry web site and Beacon Pharmaceuticals, July 2001
Hope this information helps.
Very best wishes,
Paul