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Vinyl chloride concentrations in maxillofacial prosthetics laboratories
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|February 1, 1978
Summary
Air sampling found that vinyl chloride, a carcinogen, was not released above safe levels during the creation of polyvinylchloride facial prostheses. Technician exposure remained below 0.1 ppm, meeting U.S. Department of Labor standards.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Polymer science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Vinyl chloride is a known human carcinogen.
- Polyvinylchloride (PVC) is widely used in fabricating facial prostheses.
- Concerns exist regarding potential carcinogen release during PVC processing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess vinyl chloride exposure levels for technicians.
- To determine if carcinogen release occurs during facial prosthesis formulation.
- To ensure compliance with occupational safety standards.
Main Methods:
- Air sampling was performed in three maxillofacial laboratories.
- Exposure levels were measured during polyvinylchloride facial prosthesis formulation.
- Time-weighted average (TWA) concentrations were calculated.
Main Results:
- Detected vinyl chloride concentrations were below 0.1 ppm.
- All measured TWA exposures met U.S. Department of Labor standards.
- No significant release of vinyl chloride was identified.
Conclusions:
- The formulation of polyvinylchloride facial prostheses does not pose a significant risk of vinyl chloride exposure.
- Current laboratory practices ensure technician safety.
- Occupational exposure limits for carcinogens can be maintained during medical device fabrication.