Working environment factors
How does Dichloroethane affect workers’ health?
Mar
Dichloroethane (C₂H₄Cl₂) is a toxic chemical commonly used in industry, posing many risks to worker health. Long-term exposure can cause damage to the respiratory system, nervous system, liver, and kidneys. This article will analyze the impacts of this chemical and propose effective safety measures.
1. What is Dichloroethane?
Dichloroethane, with the chemical formula C₂H₄Cl₂, is an organic compound belonging to the halogenated group. It exists as a colorless, volatile liquid with an ether-like odor. This chemical has two main isomers: 1,1-dichloroethane and 1,2-dichloroethane, with 1,2-dichloroethane (also known as ethylene dichloride) being more commonly used in industry.
Dichloroethane is primarily used as a solvent in the production of PVC plastic, industrial cleaners, paints, and pesticides. Additionally, it is also used in the oil extraction process, as an intermediate for synthesizing other organic compounds, and as a component in gasoline fuel containing anti-knock additives.
This compound has the characteristic chemical properties of halogenated derivatives, is flammable, and can react with strong oxidizing agents. Due to its high volatility, dichloroethane can disperse quickly into the air, creating a risk of exposure through the respiratory tract. When in direct contact with the skin or eyes, this chemical can cause severe irritation and damage. Therefore, a clear understanding of the nature and characteristics of dichloroethane is very important to ensure the safety of workers in environments where this chemical is used.
| No. | Chemical name in Vietnamese | Chemical name in English | HS Code | CAS Number | Chemical Formula |
| 1. | Diclo etan | Dichloroethane | 29031990 | 75-34-3; 107-06-2 |
C2H4Cl2 |
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2. Where does Dichloroethane originate from in the production process?
The compound C₂H₄Cl₂ primarily originates from industrial production processes, especially in the chemical and plastics sectors. One of the most significant sources is the synthesis of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, where this compound acts as an intermediate to create vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), the main raw material for PVC.
In addition, in the petrochemical industry, this compound may appear as a byproduct during the refining of petroleum or the production of other chlorinated compounds. During the manufacturing of solvents, industrial cleaners, adhesives, and paints, gases or vapors containing C₂H₄Cl₂ can be released into the work environment.
Another source comes from chemical processing, where this compound is used for extracting and cleaning oils and greases in the mechanical and electronics industries. Improper storage, transportation, and use can also lead to leaks of vapor or liquid into the work environment, posing a risk of exposure for workers.
3. Industries that use Dichloroethane in production
In the plastics manufacturing industry, especially for polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the compound C₂H₄Cl₂ is used as an intermediate raw material to synthesize vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). PVC is a crucial material in the production of plastic pipes, food wrap films, vinyl flooring, and many other plastic products.
The chemical industry also uses this compound to produce industrial solvents, dry cleaning agents, paints, and adhesives. In factories producing paints, glues, and adhesives, this compound acts as a solvent or improves the adhesive properties of the product.
In the oil refining and petrochemical sector, C₂H₄Cl₂ is present during the refining of crude oil and the production of chlorinated organic compounds. Furthermore, the electronics and mechanical industries use this compound to clean metal surfaces, degrease, and remove impurities during the manufacturing of components and equipment.
The textile and printing industries also apply this compound in some fabric treatment and industrial printing processes. Its use is mainly focused on treating fabric surfaces, removing impurities, and assisting the dyeing or printing process on special types of materials.
4. How does Dichloroethane affect workers?
Exposure to the compound C₂H₄Cl₂ in the workplace can cause serious health effects for workers, especially through the respiratory tract, skin, and eyes. When inhaling the vapor of this compound, workers may experience symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and respiratory tract irritation. Exposure to high concentrations can lead to central nervous system damage, causing loss of consciousness or acute respiratory failure.
Skin contact is also a significant concern, especially as this chemical can be absorbed into the body through the skin surface. Workers may suffer from irritation, redness, dermatitis, or chemical burns upon direct contact without protective measures. If the compound splashes into the eyes, it can cause corneal burns, pain, and affect vision.
In the long term, continuous exposure can cause liver and kidney damage due to the compound’s ability to accumulate and metabolize in the body. Studies also show an increased risk of cancer with prolonged exposure to concentrations exceeding safe limits. In addition, the nervous system can be affected, with symptoms such as memory impairment, peripheral neuropathy, and reduced ability to concentrate.
5. Permissible safe concentration of Dichloroethane for human exposure
Currently, no specific information on safe exposure concentrations for Dichloroethane has been found in Vietnamese legal documents. Therefore, determining the safe level of exposure to Dichloroethane requires reference to international standards and good industry practices.
On a basic level, if working in an industrial environment, it is important to comply with safety standards and limit exposure to Dichloroethane. Organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States provide safety guidelines and principles to protect workers from the negative effects of chemical substances.
6. Measures to minimize the effects of Dichloroethane on worker health
Controlling the work environment is one of the key measures to minimize the impact of C₂H₄Cl₂ on worker health. The ventilation system must be effectively designed to limit the accumulation of chemical vapors in the air. Using local exhaust ventilation systems at the source of emission helps reduce the concentration of the chemical in the workspace, thereby lowering the risk of inhaling toxic vapors.
Using personal protective equipment also plays a crucial role in protecting workers. Specialized air-purifying respirators help prevent the inhalation of toxic vapors, while gloves, safety glasses, and chemical-resistant clothing help reduce the risk of skin contact. This equipment should be periodically inspected to ensure its protective effectiveness during work.
Occupational safety training and guidance are key factors in helping workers recognize risks and adhere to safe work procedures. Organizing regular training sessions raises awareness of the harmful effects of C₂H₄Cl₂ and provides instructions on how to handle incidents involving chemical leaks. In addition, workers should undergo periodic health check-ups to detect early signs of effects on the respiratory system, nervous system, liver, and kidneys, allowing for timely medical intervention if necessary.
Applying alternative technologies or improving production processes is a long-term solution to reduce reliance on C₂H₄Cl₂. Using less toxic substitute compounds or improving chemical handling techniques can contribute to protecting worker health while enhancing sustainability in industrial production.
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 regularly to ensure understanding and proper compliance with safety rules.
Periodically conduct 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 for supervising and measuring the quality of the working environment in all provinces across Vietnam. With a team of experienced monitoring specialists, the center uses modern measuring equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
REGISTER FOR WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT MONITORING SERVICE
In addition to providing monitoring services, the center also supports clients in planning, handling, and tracking issues related to the working environment. With the motto “the customer is the center,” the center focuses on customer satisfaction, meets 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.
- Along with a team of experienced Masters and Engineers with a 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. At the same time, you will get the best cost incentives.
8. Price quotation for workplace environment monitoring
To help businesses conduct workplace environment monitoring professionally and effectively, Nam Viet provides our customers with a quality and reasonably priced price list for workplace environment monitoring services.
- Our price list provides detailed information on the prices of the monitoring services we offer. This includes costs related to travel, measurement, analysis, and reporting of results. Customers 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 also always ready to provide advice and answer any questions about our monitoring services quickly and professionally.
- With Nam Viet’s price list, customers can easily choose service packages that suit their needs. We are committed to bringing our customers the highest satisfaction with professional service quality.
