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Health effects of tank cleaners
L Lillienberg1, B Högstedt, B Järvholm
1Department of Occupational Medicine, Sahlgrenska Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Tank cleaners face significant hydrocarbon exposure, especially when cleaning warm or light fuel oil tanks. Many workers, particularly in smaller companies, inadequately use protective equipment, despite the strenuous nature of the job.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Industrial Hygiene
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Tank cleaning involves exposure to hazardous substances, particularly hydrocarbons (HCs).
- Workers in specialized subcontracting firms, refineries, and those handling oil spills are at risk.
- Variability in fuel oil types and cleaning methods influences airborne HC concentrations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess airborne hydrocarbon (HC) exposure levels in tank cleaners.
- To evaluate the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) among tank cleaners.
- To investigate potential health effects and risks associated with tank cleaning operations.
Main Methods:
- Air sampling to measure hydrocarbon concentrations in tanks.
- Surveys on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Physiological measurements (heart rate) and biological monitoring (spirometry, liver enzymes, micronuclei).
Main Results:
- High HC levels (1000-2600 mg/m3) were found in tanks with heavy fuel oil (especially when warm) and light petroleum fractions.
- Inconsistent use of PPE was observed, particularly in smaller companies and for domestic tanks.
- Tank cleaning was identified as a physically demanding task, but no significant differences in spirometry, liver enzymes, or micronuclei frequency were found between cleaners and controls.
Conclusions:
- Tank cleaners, especially those in small firms, face variable and potentially high hydrocarbon exposures.
- Inadequate use of PPE and limited awareness of hazards pose significant risks.
- While acute health effects were not prominent in this study, the long-term risks may be underestimated due to exposure variability.