[Preliminary assessment of occupational exposure to Glutaraldehyde in selected endoscopic workplaces]

The effect of occupational exposure to glutaric aldehyde in 17 endoscopic laboratories of the Wrocław region was assessed. The level of glutaraldehyde concentration was measured, and the survey was carried out in a group of 34 laboratory employees. In 11 laboratories MAC and STEL values were exceeded. Undesirable effects following the contact with glutaric aldehyde were noted in 28 subjects (82%). The skin, mucous membrane and respiratory system irritations predominated among the symptoms observed. The data show that glutaric aldehyde may induce irritation or exert an allergic effects in medical personnel.