Morbidity and mortality in U.S. Navy personnel from exposures to hazardous materials, 1974-85

A total of 1,371 hospitalizations and 136 deaths occurred in U.S. Navy enlisted personnel from 1974 to 1985 as a result of exposures to hazardous materials. Exposures to various gas fumes and vapors accounted for the largest percentage of all hospitalizations (38%), and the second largest percentage of deaths (20.6%). The most frequent cause of death was from carbon monoxide poisoning; nearly 74% of all reported deaths were attributed to this gas. Hospitalization rates were highest among the 17- to 19-year-olds across all race categories. This may be attributed either to their lack of experience and knowledge concerning the safe handling of these materials, or perhaps a disproportionate number of 17- to 19-year-olds are given tasks which put them at higher risk. The Navy occupations showing the highest risk for various exposures to hazardous materials were Utilitiesman, Hull Maintenance Technician, and Boatswain's Mate. It is the inhalation of these compounds which poses the greatest health risk to personnel both onshore and aboard ships.