Occupational exposure to hexachlorocyclohexane

Abstract

In a lindane (γ-hexachlorocyclohexane =γ-benzenehexachloride)-producing factory 57 workers were studied with regard to their blood levels of the three hexachlorocyclohexane isomers:α-, β-, andγ-HCH. The TLV-TWA (MAK value 1979) forγ-HCH of 0.5 mg/m³ was not exceeded at any of the workplaces where HCH is synthesized and purified to lindane. Additionally, in some of the workers samples of s.c. adipose tissue were taken for determination of HCH-isomer content. An external group of 20 clerks was examined in the same way for control purposes. In contrast to the control persons, none of whom had HCH-concentrations in serum above the respective detection limits, the values determined in serum of the exposed workers were in the following ranges:α-HCH: 10–273 μg/l,β-HCH: 17–760 μg/l, andγ-HCH: 5-188 μg/l. Of special interest is the observation of a significant increase ofβ-HCH-concentration in serum with the time of employment in lindane production, indicating a pronounced accumulation of this substance in the human organism. Concentrations of this isomer in s.c. adipose tissues were about 300-fold higher than in serum. A significant correlation between both parameters could be established. The results of this study show that adherence to the TLV-TWA ofγ-HCH is not sufficient for control of HCH-exposure. Furthermore, biological monitoring of exposed workers is necessary taking into account the three more important isomersα-, β-, andγ-HCH.