Working environment factors
How does Cyclohexane affect workers’ health?
Mar
Cyclohexane (C6H12) is a common chemical in manufacturing plants, but its impact on the health of workers is a major concern. This article will explore the negative health effects of cyclohexane on workers and the necessary protective measures when working with this chemical.
1. What is Cyclohexane?
Cyclohexane, with the chemical formula C6H12, is an organic compound belonging to the cycloalkane group, meaning it is a type of saturated hydrocarbon with a ring structure. The molecular structure of cyclohexane consists of six carbon atoms bonded together in a closed ring, with each carbon atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms. Because all the bonds between the carbon atoms are single bonds, cyclohexane is an alkane, meaning a compound containing only single bonds between carbon atoms.
The structure of cyclohexane is quite unique, with the carbon ring able to exist in different spatial conformations, but the most common is the “chair form,” as this is the most energetically stable form. The “boat form” also exists but is less stable. Cyclohexane is a colorless liquid with a characteristic mild odor and is highly volatile. This substance is flammable and has good solubility with many other organic substances, so it is often used as a solvent in industrial applications. Cyclohexane also plays an important role in the chemical manufacturing industry, especially in the synthesis of nylon and other polymer products.
| No. | Chemical Name in Vietnamese | Chemical Name in English | HS Code | CAS Number | Chemical Formula |
| 1. | Cyclo hexan | Cyclohexane | 29021100 | 110-82-7 | C6H12 |
See more: chemical safety training services according to Decree 113/2017/ND-CP
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2. Where does Cyclohexane originate from in the production process?
During production, cyclohexane is primarily generated from the refining processes of petroleum and natural gas. It is a byproduct in the production of benzene, an important compound in the chemical industry. Cyclohexane can be produced by the hydrogenation of benzene, where benzene is reacted with hydrogen under the influence of a catalyst to create cyclohexane. In addition, cyclohexane can also be synthesized from other sources such as petrochemical products or during the production of plastics and synthetic fibers.
In manufacturing plants, cyclohexane can also be formed from chemical reactions involving other substances such as alkenes, alkanes, or other industrial chemicals during the production of materials like plastics, synthetic rubber, or industrial solvents. Cyclohexane can also be generated during the production of other organic substances such as nylon and pharmaceutical products.
3. Industries that use Cyclohexane in production
Cyclohexane is widely used in many different manufacturing industries, thanks to its good solubility for organic substances and its high volatility. In the petrochemical industry, cyclohexane plays an important role in the production of organic solvents, helping to dissolve other substances in the manufacturing and refining processes.
In addition, cyclohexane is also used in the polymer industry, especially in the production of nylon. Cyclohexane is an important raw material for synthesizing adipic acid and caprolactam, two essential precursors in the nylon production process. Therefore, the synthetic fiber, fabric, and nylon plastics industries use cyclohexane to produce these products.
In the pharmaceutical industry, cyclohexane is also used as a solvent in the extraction and synthesis of pharmaceuticals, helping to dissolve the necessary active ingredients. Furthermore, cyclohexane is used in the paint, adhesive, and surface coating industries thanks to its ability to act as a solvent for pigments, binders, and additives.
The synthetic rubber industry is another field where cyclohexane is present, as this substance is used to create the necessary rubber polymers for the production of tires, household goods, and other rubber products.
4. How does Cyclohexane affect workers?
When exposed to cyclohexane in the workplace, workers may experience negative health effects. Inhaling cyclohexane vapor can cause symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms often appear when the concentration of cyclohexane in the air exceeds the permissible level, especially in poorly ventilated work areas.
In addition, direct contact with cyclohexane on the skin can cause irritation, leading to dry, red, or itchy skin. In some severe cases, long-term contact with cyclohexane can lead to dermatitis or other skin problems. If the substance comes into contact with the eyes, it can cause eye irritation, redness, and discomfort.
When a large amount of cyclohexane is inhaled over a long period, more serious effects can occur, including impacts on the central nervous system, causing symptoms such as anxiety, mental disorders, or even loss of consciousness. Studies also indicate that if exposed to cyclohexane for a long time, workers may experience respiratory problems, lung damage, or serious liver and kidney issues.
5. Permissible safe concentration of Cyclohexane for human exposure
The permissible concentration limit of cyclohexane in the working air is regulated by occupational health and safety organizations to protect the health of workers. In Vietnam, according to the National Technical Regulation QCVN 02:2008/BLĐTBXH, the concentration limit of cyclohexane in the working air is 100 ppm (equivalent to 350 mg/m³) for an 8-hour workday.
Similarly, in the United States, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends a concentration limit of cyclohexane in the air of 100 ppm over an 8-hour shift, and not to exceed 300 ppm for a short period (10 minutes).
At a basic level, when working in an industrial environment, it is important to comply with safety standards and limit exposure to Cyclohexane. Organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States provide guidelines and safety principles to protect workers from the negative effects of chemical substances.
6. Measures to mitigate the effects of Cyclohexane on workers’ health
To minimize the health effects of cyclohexane on workers, protective measures must be strictly implemented in the workplace. One of the most important measures is to ensure adequate ventilation in areas where cyclohexane is used, which helps to dilute the concentration of this substance in the air, thereby reducing the likelihood of workers inhaling cyclohexane vapor. The use of exhaust systems or ventilation fans at points where cyclohexane is generated will help maintain fresh and safer air for workers.
In addition, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators, gloves, and safety goggles should also be used when working with cyclohexane. Dust-filtering masks or respirators help prevent workers from inhaling cyclohexane vapor, while protective gloves will limit direct contact of the chemical with the skin. Wearing safety goggles is also very important to prevent cyclohexane from splashing into the eyes during handling.
Occupational safety training programs for workers are also essential. Workers need to be instructed on the potential risks of exposure to cyclohexane, how to use personal protective equipment correctly, and first aid measures in case of poisoning. Besides, periodic health monitoring for workers is necessary to detect early signs of cyclohexane poisoning, thereby allowing for timely treatment.
Finally, implementing regulations on the concentration limits of cyclohexane in the workplace air is crucial for protecting the long-term health of workers. Factories and production facilities need to regularly check and monitor the concentration of cyclohexane to ensure that it always remains within the safe permissible level.
Occupational safety training: Workers need to be trained and educated on the risks and safety measures when working with this type of chemical. This training should be provided periodically and frequently to ensure understanding and proper compliance with safety rules.
Periodically organize workplace environment monitoring in factories and enterprises, collecting and analyzing factors harmful to workers, thereby adjusting to reduce hazard levels to prevent occupational diseases for them.
7. National Center for Workplace Environment Monitoring
The Workplace Environment Monitoring Center of Nam Viet is a professional unit specializing in the supervision and measurement of workplace environment quality across all provinces in Vietnam. With a team of experienced monitoring specialists, the center uses modern measuring equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
REGISTER FOR WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT MONITORING SERVICES
In addition to providing monitoring services, the center also assists clients in planning, handling, and tracking workplace environment issues. With the motto “the customer is the center,” the center focuses on customer satisfaction, meeting all customer needs, and is committed to providing the best solutions for businesses.
With investment in techniques, technology, and human resources, Nam Viet’s monitoring center has become one of the reputable units in the field of workplace environment monitoring in Ho Chi Minh City with the following objectives:
- We always value our brand reputation and the quality of our products and services.
- We provide our customers with the best and most suitable solutions possible.
- With a team of experienced Masters and Engineers, we desire to protect the environment and benefit businesses.
- With the Nam Viet Environmental Monitoring team, your company will receive professional service from experts in the monitoring field, along with the best cost incentives.
8. Price Quote for Workplace Environment Monitoring
To help businesses conduct workplace environment monitoring professionally and effectively, Nam Viet offers our clients a price list for quality and reasonably priced workplace environment monitoring services.
- Our price list provides detailed information on the costs of the monitoring services we offer. It includes all related costs for travel, measurement, analysis, and reporting of results. You can be completely assured of the accuracy and reliability of the monitoring result reports we provide.
- We are committed to always offering the most competitive and reasonable prices on the market, and we are always ready to provide quick and professional consultation and answer any questions about our monitoring services.
- With Nam Viet’s price list, you can easily choose service packages that suit your needs. We are committed to bringing you the highest satisfaction with our professional service quality.
