Recommendation for an occupational exposure limit for toluene

Area of Science:

• Occupational toxicology
• Chemical safety assessment
• Industrial hygiene

Background:

• The Lower Olefins and Aromatics (LOA) REACH Consortium reviewed occupational exposure limits (OELs) for toluene.
• Safety signals for CNS, neuro-behavioural, ototoxicity, colour vision, and reproductive effects were identified.
• The review considered the need for skin notation and short-term exposure limits (STELs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review existing data on toluene toxicity in humans and animals.
• To assess the adequacy of data for deriving an OEL.
• To recommend an updated OEL for toluene.

Main Methods:

• The Working Group (WG) critically evaluated published animal and human studies.
• Data strengths and weaknesses were assessed for potential points of departure.
• The WG discussed the suitability of existing toxicological information.

Main Results:

• A recommended OEL for toluene is 20 ppm as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA).
• A 15-minute STEL of 100 ppm is recommended.
• A skin notation is advised due to potential dermal absorption.

Conclusions:

• The recommended OEL of 20 ppm TWA, 100 ppm STEL, and skin notation aims to protect workers from toluene's adverse health effects.
• The review provides a data-driven basis for updated occupational safety guidelines.
• This assessment supports enhanced worker protection in industrial settings involving toluene exposure.