Immunochemical quantification and particle size distribution of airborne papain in a meat portioning facility

The use of enzymes in industry continues to expand. With this increased use comes a concerted need to better understand potential respiratory health hazards to exposed workers and to quantify exposure levels that cause impaired health. To this end, projects were undertaken by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Health Hazard Evaluations Program and Cole Associates whereby this information was collected. Data concerning medical evaluation and aspects of industrial hygiene are the subjects of two separate reports from these respective groups. This method/results report includes a description of (1) a sensitive immunoradiometric assay for the quantification of airborne papain and its particle size distribution, (2) measurement of papain from both general area and personal breathing zone air samples obtained from a meat processing plant that used this immunochemical analysis, (3) a sampling strategy, and (4) an improved air sample processing technique. Airborne papain was measured at levels ranging from low nanogram to microgram per cubic meter concentrations. Approximately half of the papain activity was associated with particles having an aerodynamic diameter of less than 9.4 microns. These data point to a need for containment and controls in the manufacture and use of such compounds. This approach can be considered by the hygienist as an effective tool to be used in conjunction with epidemiologic studies to help set standards that are practical, safe, and maintained.