Mortality Among Employees Chronically Exposed to Caustic Dust

Abstract
Previous studies have reported on individuals acutely, but not chronically, exposed to caustic (sodium hydroxide). The present investigation examines mortality in a limited population chronically exposed to caustic dust for periods of up to 30 years or more. There were no findings of significantly increased mortality in relation to duration or intensity of caustic dust exposure. Because of the small size of the present population and the lack of information in the literature, there is need for additional mortality surveillance; however, it is recommended that careful monitoring of acute exposure episodes be continued as the most productive means of assessing the health hazards of caustic exposure in occupational settings.