Ultraviolet detection of synthetic oil contamination of skin

A study was conducted to evaluate skin contamination occurring on coal liquefaction process workers using quantitative (Spill Spotter) and qualitative (blacklight) ultraviolet fluorescence methods. Other objectives were to determine the effectiveness of showering in removing contamination, and to determine the quantitative relationship between Spill Spotter response and skin contamination concentration. Field measurements showed wide ranges of background skin fluorescence caused by differing skin types. Visible dirt on the skin partially quenched the fluorescence response of the Spill Spotter. Fluorescent skin contamination on selected workers was quantified relative to a calibration curve developed on pigskin using a reference synfuel oil. One group of workers was shown to exhibit a two-to three-fold increase in fluorescence during the work shift. Showering removed skin contamination although residual contamination sometimes remained on workers that exhibited the greatest degree of skin contamination during the workshift. Further refinement of the ultraviolet method for absolute quantification of fluorescent skin contamination is needed.