[Work conditions and health status of workers engaged in nickel production using carbonyl method]

Work conditions in modern production of nickel (carbonyl way) are characterized by high concentrations of sodium tetracarbonyl in the industrial compartments, so the acute and chronic intoxications in the workers could occur. Data on biologic control of the exposure (according to nickel level in the urine and carbon dioxide content of the expired air) prove considerable load of sodium tetracarbonyl in the workers and the inadequate protective means. The workers are characterized by increased prevalence of chronic respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, endocrine and dermatologic diseases.