INDUSTRIAL SOLVENTS: SOME FACTORS AFFECTING THEIR PASSAGE INTO AND THROUGH THE SKIN

Abstract

There are numerous industrial applications in which skin contact with solvents may occur. An awareness of the main factors which determine the passage of such materials into and through the skin is important in order to fully utilize, and not abuse, its protective role in the occupational situation. These factors are illustrated by reference to some of the data and concepts available in the existing literature. Wherever possible, an attempt has been made to link these observations to the applied situation and to highlight those factors and/or their combination which should be minimized in good industrial hygiene practice.