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Choice reaction time in workers exposed to styrene vapour
Human Toxicology
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Occupational exposure to styrene-based resin vapour impaired reaction times in female workers. Improved workplace ventilation reduced styrene exposure and eliminated adverse behavioural effects.
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Background:
- Occupational exposure to styrene-based resin vapour is common in certain industries.
- Understanding the neurobehavioural effects of styrene exposure is crucial for worker safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the behavioural effects of occupational styrene exposure.
- To assess the relationship between styrene metabolism and cognitive function.
Main Methods:
- 10 female workers exposed to styrene-based resin vapour were tested.
- Choice reaction time tests were administered pre- and post-shift.
- Urinary mandelic acid levels were monitored to assess styrene uptake and metabolism.
Main Results:
- Higher mandelic acid excretion correlated with slower reaction times.
- Workers with low or zero exposure showed no significant change or slight improvement in reaction time.
- Improved workplace ventilation led to decreased mandelic acid levels and normalized reaction times.
Conclusions:
- Occupational exposure to styrene vapour can negatively impact cognitive function, specifically reaction time.
- Monitoring urinary mandelic acid is a useful biomarker for styrene exposure.
- Workplace ventilation improvements are effective in mitigating styrene's adverse behavioural effects.