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Absence of toxic effects in silver reclamation workers
J W Pifer1, B R Friedlander, R T Kintz
1Health and Environment Laboratories, Eastman Kodak Company, Rochester, New York 14652-3615.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Occupational silver exposure did not cause health issues like argyria or vision loss in male workers. Long-term exposure to insoluble silver compounds showed no adverse health effects despite increased silver levels in the body.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Toxicology
- Environmental health
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding the potential toxicity of silver exposure in occupational settings.
- Previous reports have raised alarms about silver posing a hazard to exposed workers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the health risks associated with long-term occupational exposure to silver.
- To assess the effects of insoluble silver compounds on workers' health.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 27 male workers exposed to silver compounds and 27 matched referents.
- Physical examinations, electron microscopy of skin biopsies, facial discoloration assessment, and optometric testing were performed.
Main Results:
- No cases of generalized argyria were observed in exposed workers.
- Facial discoloration and visual performance showed no significant differences between groups.
- Ocular silver deposition occurred in 29% of workers, but without significant visual deficits.
Conclusions:
- Chronic occupational exposure to insoluble silver compounds did not lead to adverse health effects.
- Despite increased silver presence in biological samples, no detrimental health impacts were found in workers.