The latest estimated number of exposed workers in the EU to Epichlorohydrine (1-chloro-2,3-epoxypropane) from 2011 is about 44,000. Inhalation is considered as the primary route of exposure but workers might also be exposed through dermal contact. Epichlorohydrine is classified as Carcinogenic Category 1B (according to CLP regulation), which means it is presumed to have carcinogenic potential for humans, based on evidence in animaltests. Exposure to epichlorohydrine is associated with the occurrence of lung cancer and tumours of the central nervous system.

Where risks occur

Occupational exposures to epichlorohydrine may occur during its production from chlorine as well as in the production of epoxy resins used in coatings, adhesives, and plastics. Epoxy resins have diverse applications in industrial sectors such as paints, adhesives, automotive, aerospace industry, construction, renewable energy equipment and electronics (used for printed circuits boards and to encapsulate electronic components in order to protect them from damage). Epichlorohydrine is furthermore used in special resins and polymers for water treatment, resins with high wet-strength for the paper industry, or through ion exchange to purify air and water. In addition, it is used as a solvent for cellulose esters and ethers, processing of wool and cotton and in rubber processes. Furthermore, occupations at risk for exposure include workers at chemical synthesis plants of polyols for the production of rigid polyurethane foams, and surface-active agents for washing products.

More about the substance

Epichlorohydrine is a colorless flammable liquid with a pungent, garlic-like odor, moderately soluble in water, but miscible with most polar organic solvents. On combustion, it forms toxic and corrosive fumes of hydrogen chloride and chlorine. Epichlorohydrine reacts violently with aluminum, zinc, alcohols, phenols, amines and organic acids; this generates fire and explosion hazard.

Hazards that may occur

Breathing in Epichlorohydrine vapor is considered to be the primary route of exposure, but significant uptake through the skin is also possible. Short term exposure to epichlorohydrine may cause irritation to the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. Inhalation of the vapour may cause asthma-like reactions. In addition, contact with epichlorohydrine may irritate and burn the skin and eyes. At high levels of exposure, nausea, vomiting, cough, shortness of breath, inflammation of the lung, pulmonary edema, central nervous system effects and renal and liver damage may be observed. Repeated or prolonged contact with epichlorohydrine may cause skin sensitization. In addition, chronic exposure to epichlorohydrine may have effects on the kidneys, liver and lungs, as well as increased risk of lymphatic and haemopoietic cancer.

What you can do

The most effective way to prevent exposure is by substitution of epichlorohydrine, for example by alternative methods for manufacture of epoxy resins; substitutes for epoxy resins in the different applications such as coatings, construction, adhesives, laminates and composites; alternative processes for synthesis of glycerin; and substitutes for epichlorohydrine elastomers. Where substitution of epichlorohidrine is not possible and use of epichlorohidrine cannot be avoided, measures to reduce exposure must be taken.

The most effective way to avoid exposure to epichlorodrine is to develop and use closed systems. Where this is not possible, technical measures such as effective local exhaust ventilation, supplemented by good ventilation of the workplace as well as checking their effectiveness should be implemented to ensure that exposure is minimised as much as technically possible.

Implement regular exposure assessments to check if your protective measures in place are effective or whether further actions need to be taken. Workers need to be aware of the effects of exposure and should be trained regularly on the control measures necessary for working safely with epichlorohidrine to prevent exposure. Involving an occupational physician is recommended. Encourage workers to report on early symptoms. Additionally, all workers should be instructed to wash their hands properly before taking a break or entering another area, and to wash themselves and change their clothes at the end of each shift.

Ensure that workers have adequate personal protective equipment, such as protective clothing and gloves, if necessary. Personal protective equipment should not be used as the only preventive measure. As many of the above technical and organisational measures as possible must have been implemented beforehand. In addition, when selecting equipment, the anatomy of the workers who will be using it must be taken into account and, in the case of respiratory protective equipment based on facial adjustment, it is highly recommended that a fit test be carried out on each person.

Personal protective equipment should only be used as a last resort and only considered temporarily, after the possible technical solutions have been exhausted. Workers should receive the necessary training and information for the correct use and maintenance of PPE.

References: ECHA, CLP, IARC, ICSCs, IOM