Solvent uptake in relation to physical activity

The influence of lung ventilation and free fatty acids in serum on the internal exposure of organic solvents were investigated. 68 healthy male subjects were exposed 1 h at rest and during exercise to styrene, toluene or xylene. Uptake is influenced by the solvent concentration in inspired air, retention index and pulmonary ventilation. Internal exposure is characterized by venous blood concentrations and metabolites in urine. An increase in free fatty acids could be observed dependent on the internal exposure, preventing increases in the content of free fatty acids is a problem of susceptibility and medical care of exposed workers. Biological limits for the control of internal exposure are suggested.