[Condition of the respiratory system in workers involved in carbon black production]

Carbon black is a commercial product manufactured under controlled conditions. It is not considered as a carcinogenic substance. It is even assumed that it reduces considerably carcinogenesis of substances adsorbed on its surface. The aim of the study was to present the condition of the respiratory system of workers involved in the carbon black production. The study covered the group of exposed persons (n = 118) and the control group (n = 241). The results of environmental studies indicated excess of dust MAC values at work posts. It was concluded that exposure to carbon black was harmful to health of workers employed in its production, especially in the case of a long-term exposure to dust in concentrations exceeding MACs. Chronic bronchitis and ventilation disturbances occur more frequently in persons exposed, and smoking proved to be an additional pathogenic factor affecting health of this group of workers.