Health effects of occupational pentachlorophenol exposure in timber sawmill employees: a preliminary study

To study the health effects of pentachlorophenol (PCP) exposure in the timber sawmill industry.

A questionnaire-based, non-random survey was undertaken amongst a group of current and ex-workers who had identified their health concerns as being related to PCP exposure.

Low, medium and high exposure groups were identified. A significant dose-response was found between past exposure to Pentachlorophenol and reported symptoms of fever/sweating (47% in the high exposure group), weight loss (33% in the high exposure group), persisting fatigue (74% in the high exposure group), nausea (40% in the medium and high exposure groups) and responses to a screening test for neuropsychological dysfunction (Questionnaire 16) (81% in the high exposure group). No associations were observed with other chronic diseases, apart from emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

This study is based on a self selected sample of PCP-exposed workers whose precise exposure levels are unclear. Thus the findings presented should be regarded as preliminary. Nevertheless, they support clinical experiences and point to the need for further investigation.