Working environment factors
How does Hexabromobiphenyl affect workers’ health?
Apr
What are the potential health risks for workers from the chemical 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- (C12H4Br6)? This article will reveal the serious effects of exposure in a factory environment and effective ways to recognize and prevent them.
1. What is 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo-?
1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- (C₁₂H₄Br₆) is an organic compound belonging to the polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) group, formed from a biphenyl structure—two directly linked benzene rings—with six bromine atoms substituted at various positions on the rings. The molecular formula of this compound is C₁₂H₄Br₆, with a molecular weight of approximately 627.584 g/mol.
This compound exists as a colorless or light-colored solid, insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as benzene, toluene, and chloroform. The boiling point of 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- ranges from approximately 458°C to 485°C at 760 mmHg, depending on the specific isomer. Its stable physicochemical properties and high flame resistance led to its primary use as a flame retardant in industrial products such as plastics, rubber, insulating materials, and electronic equipment.
However, due to its resistance to degradation and its potential for bioaccumulation, the use of 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- has been banned or restricted in many countries due to concerns about its negative impacts on human health and the environment.
| No. | Chemical Name in Vietnamese | Chemical Name in English | HS Code | CAS Number | Chemical Formula |
| 1. | Hexabrom biphenyl | 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- | 29039900 | 36355-01-08 | C12H4Br6 |
See more: Chemical Safety Training service according to Decree 113/2017/ND-CP
REGISTER FOR CHEMICAL SAFETY TRAINING ACCORDING TO DECREE 113
2. What are the sources of 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- during the production process?
In industrial production, this compound is created through the bromination of biphenyl. Specifically, biphenyl reacts with bromine in an organic solvent, using a catalyst such as aluminum chloride, aluminum bromide, or iron. This reaction results in the substitution of hydrogen atoms on the benzene rings of biphenyl with bromine atoms, forming polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), including 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo-.
During production, the main sources of this compound include:
Air emissions: During the manufacturing process, a small amount of the compound can be released into the air as dust particles or gas emissions from the hydrogen bromide recovery system. Although these emissions are usually small, they must be strictly controlled to minimize environmental pollution.
Industrial wastewater: Wastewater from the production process may contain residues of this compound if not properly treated. Due to its resistance to degradation and potential for bioaccumulation, the management and treatment of wastewater containing this compound are crucial to prevent water pollution.
Solid waste: Residues, sludge, and other materials contaminated with this compound during production are also potential sources. The disposal and destruction of this waste must comply with strict regulations to avoid negative impacts on the environment and human health.
Controlling and minimizing these sources plays an important role in protecting the environment and ensuring the safety of workers in factories that use this compound.
3. Industries that use 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- in production
In the 1970s, this compound was widely used as a flame retardant in various industries. Specifically, it was used in the production of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plastic for business machine housings, industrial equipment, and electronic products such as radio and TV components. Additionally, this compound was used in coatings, varnishes, and polyurethane foam for automotive interiors.
Currently, the use of 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- (HBB) is banned or strictly restricted in most countries due to concerns about its negative impacts on human health and the environment. According to the Stockholm Convention, HBB is listed in Annex A, which calls for the elimination of its production and use. Therefore, HBB is no longer legally used in any industry today.
However, in electronic waste recycling facilities, especially in areas that do not strictly adhere to environmental regulations, HBB may still be present in old plastic products and be released into the environment. Therefore, the proper management and disposal of products containing HBB are crucial to prevent pollution and protect public health.
4. How does 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- affect workers?
Exposure to this compound in an industrial environment can cause many negative effects on workers’ health. Animal studies show that high-dose exposure can lead to liver damage, reproductive toxicity, teratogenicity, and potential toxicity to the nervous system, kidneys, and immune system.
Additionally, this compound is classified as an endocrine disruptor, affecting fertility in rats, minks, and monkeys. In epidemiological studies, there is evidence that exposure to polybrominated biphenyls can lead to hypothyroidism in workers and an increased incidence of breast cancer in exposed women.
Furthermore, symptoms such as damage to the thyroid, digestive system, cardiovascular system, and skin, as well as anorexia, weight loss, and liver and kidney damage have also been recorded.
5. Permissible safe concentration of 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- for human exposure
Currently, there is no established safe exposure concentration level for workers exposed to 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- (HBB). This is primarily because the production and use of HBB have been banned or strictly restricted in many countries, including Vietnam, due to concerns about its negative impacts on human health and the environment. According to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), HBB is listed as a restricted substance under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) Regulation, meaning its production, marketing, and use are prohibited or only permitted under very strict conditions.
Homepage – ECHA
Therefore, no safe exposure threshold has been established for HBB in the workplace. However, for similar compounds like non-brominated biphenyl, some agencies have set occupational exposure limits. For example, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for biphenyl of 0.2 parts per million (ppm), equivalent to 1 mg/m³, for an 8-hour time-weighted average.
However, it is important to note that these values do not apply to HBB due to differences in chemical properties and toxicity between the compounds. Therefore, in cases of potential exposure to HBB, strict preventive measures must be followed, and health and safety authorities should be consulted to ensure worker protection.
NOTE: THIS INFORMATION IS FOR REFERENCE ONLY!
On a basic level, if working in an industrial environment, it is important to adhere to safety standards and limit exposure to Hexabromobiphenyl. Organizations like 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 health effects of 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- on workers
To protect workers’ health from the harmful effects of 1,1’-Biphenyl, hexabromo- (HBB), the following measures should be implemented:
Substitute hazardous chemicals: Prioritize the use of less toxic substances in place of HBB to minimize risks to workers and the environment.
Isolate the source of chemical emissions: Establish separate areas for HBB use, equipped with effective ventilation systems and shielding equipment to limit the spread of the chemical into the general work environment.
Ensure safety during chemical use: Strictly adhere to occupational safety procedures when working with HBB, including training workers on risks and preventive measures, and using appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, and respirators.
Proper disposal and destruction of chemicals: Establish procedures for the collection, storage, and destruction of HBB in accordance with legal regulations and guidance from authorities to prevent environmental pollution and protect the community.
Monitor the work environment: Conduct periodic monitoring of HBB concentrations in the workplace air to ensure they do not exceed permissible limits, allowing for the timely application of appropriate control measures.
Enhance awareness and training: Organize training sessions to provide information to workers about the risks associated with HBB and self-protection measures, in order to raise awareness and risk prevention skills.
The simultaneous implementation of these measures will help to minimize the health effects of HBB on workers and ensure a safe working environment.
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 regularly to ensure understanding and compliance with safety rules.
Periodically organize work 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 Occupational Environment Monitoring
Nam Viet’s Occupational Environment Monitoring Center is a professional unit specializing in monitoring and measuring the quality of the working environment across all provinces in Vietnam. With a team of experienced monitoring specialists, the center uses modern measuring equipment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
REGISTER FOR OCCUPATIONAL ENVIRONMENT MONITORING SERVICE
In addition to providing monitoring services, the center also assists clients in planning, addressing, and tracking issues related to the working environment. With the motto “the customer is the center,” the center focuses on customer satisfaction, meeting all customer needs and committing to providing the best solutions for businesses.
With investment in technology, engineering, and human resources, Nam Viet’s monitoring center has become one of the reputable units in the field of occupational 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 with expertise and a desire to protect the environment and benefit businesses.
- By choosing Nam Viet’s Environmental Monitoring team, your company will receive professional service from experts in the monitoring field. You will also receive the best offers on costs.
8. Quotation for Occupational Environment Monitoring
To help businesses conduct occupational environment monitoring professionally and effectively, Nam Viet offers our valued customers a quality and reasonably priced quotation for occupational environment monitoring services.
- Our quotation 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 always ready to provide quick and professional advice and answers to any questions about our monitoring services.
- With Nam Viet’s quotation for monitoring, customers can easily choose service packages that suit their needs. We are committed to bringing our customers the highest satisfaction with professional quality service.
