Working environment factors
How does Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane affect workers’ health?
Nov
Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane (mirex) is a toxic chemical used in many industries, but its effects on workers’ health are not yet widely known. Let’s explore the potential risks and protective measures when working with this chemical in the article below.
1. What is Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane (mirex)?
C10Cl12 is the chemical formula for an organic compound called Mirex. It is a chemical belonging to the group of halogenated cyclododecanes, known primarily for its toxic properties and its ability to accumulate in the environment. Mirex is a white, odorless, non-volatile solid with high stability, which makes it persistent and difficult to decompose in nature.
This chemical was first produced in the mid-20th century and was widely used in agriculture as an insecticide and crop protection agent, especially for controlling harmful insects like termites. However, due to its toxicity, the use of Mirex in agriculture has been banned in many countries since the 1970s. Nevertheless, it still persists in the environment and can enter the body through various pathways, especially for workers in factories that use this chemical.
With its specific chemical structure and long-term persistence in the environment, Mirex can cause dangerous effects on human health, especially for those with long-term and inadequately protected exposure.
| No. | Chemical Name in Vietnamese | Chemical Name in English | HS Code | CAS Number | Chemical Formula |
| 1. | Dodecaclo pentaxyclodecan | Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane (mirex) | 29038900 | 2385-85-5 | C10Cl12 |
See more: Chemical safety training service according to Decree 113/2017/ND-CP
REGISTER FOR CHEMICAL OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY TRAINING ACCORDING TO DECREE 113
2. Where does Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane (mirex) originate from in the production process?
Mirex primarily originates from the production and use of chemicals in industry. In the past, Mirex was mainly produced as an insecticide, particularly to protect crops from destructive pests like termites. However, due to its very slow decomposition rate and high toxicity, this chemical was gradually banned in many countries by the late 20th century.
During production, Mirex is synthesized from chlorine-containing chemical compounds through complex chemical reactions. This process typically takes place in chemical plants where these chemicals are mixed and heat-treated to create the final product. However, in factories that used Mirex, the chemical could be generated as dust or vapor, especially during stages like mixing, packaging, and transportation. Workers directly handling products containing Mirex could be exposed by inhaling the dust or vapor, or through direct skin contact during their work.
Additionally, Mirex can also be generated during the combustion of materials containing it, such as when processing industrial waste or in waste treatment plants.
3. Industries that use Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane (mirex) in production
Mirex, although widely banned in many countries, may still be present in certain industries due to its long-term stability in the environment and its potential presence in other chemical products. Before being banned, Mirex was primarily used in agriculture and crop protection-related industries. Now, occupations that may come into contact with this chemical are mainly in fields related to waste treatment, recycling, or the production of chemical products.
In the past, one of the biggest users of Mirex was the insecticide and crop protection manufacturing industry. Today, however, the use of Mirex has drastically decreased and it is almost non-existent in agricultural products. The chemical industry, especially facilities that produce and handle substances potentially containing Mirex or manufactured from chlorinated organic compounds, could be a place where workers are exposed. Companies specializing in hazardous waste treatment may also encounter Mirex while recycling or treating products contaminated with this chemical.
Furthermore, some industries that manufacture building materials or consumer products from plastic, paint, or rubber might encounter Mirex, particularly during recycling processes or when handling old materials that contain it.
4. How does Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane (mirex) affect workers?
Mirex has serious effects on the health of workers, especially those in industries with long-term exposure to this chemical. When it enters the body through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion, Mirex can cause long-term negative impacts due to its high stability and ability to accumulate in the human body.
One of the most significant harms of Mirex is its effect on the nervous system. Workers exposed to this chemical may experience symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and loss of concentration. Furthermore, long-term exposure can lead to more serious problems like central nervous system disorders, reducing reflex capabilities and affecting the mental health of workers.
Mirex also has the potential to affect the liver and kidneys, two vital organs for detoxification and filtering waste from the body. Studies show that exposure to Mirex can increase the risk of liver and kidney damage, leading to conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, and kidney failure. Moreover, Mirex is also potentially carcinogenic, as it is a highly toxic substance that can cause genetic mutations in the body.
Additionally, exposure to Mirex can cause problems with the reproductive system, particularly in men. This chemical can affect sex hormones, reducing fertility and causing issues related to sexual health.
5. Permissible safe concentration of Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane (mirex) for human exposure
Mirex is a highly toxic chemical, and therefore, there is no absolute safe concentration level for human exposure. Health and environmental agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all recommend minimizing exposure to Mirex as much as possible, as even a small amount can cause serious harm to workers’ health.
Although there is no official “safe” concentration level, current standards primarily focus on limiting workers’ exposure to Mirex to minimize health risks. According to international regulations, the amount of Mirex in the workplace air must be strictly controlled. Countries have banned or severely restricted the use of Mirex in production due to its long-term accumulation in the environment and the human body.
On a basic level, if working in an industrial environment, it is important to comply with safety standards and limit exposure to Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane. Organizations like 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 Dodecachloro pentacyclodecane (mirex) on worker’s health
To minimize the health effects of Mirex on workers, strict protective and preventive measures must be implemented in work environments where this chemical is used or encountered. One of the most critical measures is ensuring that workers are fully equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE). Dust-filtering masks, gloves, fully enclosed protective clothing, and eye protection are essential tools to prevent Mirex from coming into direct contact with the body through inhalation, skin, and eyes. Especially during stages like mixing, packaging, or transportation, using PPE not only protects workers but also reduces the risks from the chemical’s potential hazards.
Additionally, improving working conditions through ventilation and air treatment systems in work areas is crucial. A good ventilation system helps remove chemical dust or vapors from the air, reducing the accumulation of Mirex and preventing its inhalation. Regular environmental monitoring, such as checking for air and surface contamination levels, should also be performed to detect potential hazards early.
Besides personal and environmental protective measures, training and raising awareness among workers is also a key factor. Workers must be trained on the risks of exposure to Mirex and the safety methods to protect themselves from this toxic chemical. Strict adherence to safety procedures throughout the work process will help minimize the risk of poisoning and protect workers’ health.
Finally, periodic health monitoring, including blood tests and liver and kidney function tests for workers in environments with Mirex, is essential. These medical measures help in the early detection of signs of poisoning, allowing for timely intervention to protect the long-term health of the workforce.
Occupational safety training: Workers need to be trained and educated about 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 adherence to safety rules.
Periodically organize work environment monitoring in factories and enterprises, collecting and analyzing factors harmful to workers, and then adjusting to reduce the hazard level to prevent occupational diseases for them.
7. National Work Environment Monitoring Center
The Work Environment Monitoring Center of Nam Viet is a professional unit specializing in the supervision and measurement of work environment quality across all provinces in Vietnam. With a team of experienced monitoring specialists, the center uses modern measurement equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
REGISTER FOR WORK ENVIRONMENT MONITORING SERVICE
In addition to providing monitoring services, the center also assists clients in planning, addressing, and tracking work environment issues. With the motto “the customer is the center,” the center is dedicated to customer satisfaction, meeting all of their needs, and committing to providing the best solutions for businesses.
With its investment in techniques, technology, and human resources, the Nam Viet monitoring center has become one of the most reputable units in the field of work 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 options possible.
- Along with a team of experienced and specialized Masters and Engineers, we aim to protect the environment and benefit businesses.
- By choosing the Nam Viet Environmental Monitoring team, your company will receive professional service from experts in the monitoring field. You will also receive the best cost incentives.
8. Quotation for Work Environment Monitoring
To help businesses conduct work environment monitoring professionally and effectively, Nam Viet offers our clients a quality and reasonably priced quotation table for work environment monitoring services.
- Our quotation table provides detailed information about the prices of the monitoring services we offer. This includes costs related to travel, measurement, analysis, and reporting of results. Clients 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 consultation and answer any questions about our monitoring services quickly and professionally.
- With Nam Viet’s quotation table, clients can easily choose the service packages that suit their needs. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of satisfaction through our professional quality service.
