How does Hydroxy aceto nitrile affect workers’ health?

How does Hydroxy aceto nitrile affect workers’ health?
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Hydroxy aceto nitrile (glycolonitrile) (C2H3NO) is a chemical commonly found in many industrial manufacturing sectors. However, direct or indirect contact with this compound can cause serious health effects for workers. This article will analyze its dangerous impacts and effective protective measures!

1. What is Hydroxy aceto nitrile (glycolonitrile)?

As an organic compound, C2H3NO belongs to the nitrile group and typically appears as a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. This compound has unique chemical properties, with good solubility in water and some organic solvents. It is one of the important intermediates in many industrial processes, especially in the production of chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

The chemical formula C2H3NO represents the combination of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen atoms, creating a simple yet very versatile structure. It is this versatility that allows the compound to be widely used in manufacturing, from stabilizers to precursors in chemical synthesis. However, this characteristic also comes with the risk of harm if not controlled or used correctly.

No. Chemical Name in Vietnamese Chemical Name in English HS Code CAS Number Chemical Formula
1. Hydroxy axeto nitril Hydroxy aceto nitrile (glycolonitrile) 29269000 107-16-4 C2H3NO

See more chemical safety training services according to Decree 113/2017/ND-CP

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2. Where does Hydroxy aceto nitrile (glycolonitrile) originate from in the production process?

In the industrial production process, C2H3NO is often created as an intermediate or byproduct. This compound is common in the chemical industry, especially in the synthesis of organic compounds. It can appear when carrying out chemical reactions involving cyanohydrins, due to the combination of an aldehyde or ketone with hydrogen cyanide under catalytic conditions.

In addition, this compound is also formed in the production processes of plastics, synthetic fibers, and stabilizers. Some other industries, such as the manufacturing of pesticides and pharmaceuticals, can also be major sources. In factories, improper operation and handling of raw materials or chemical reactions can lead to leaks or releases into the environment.


3. Industries that use Hydroxy aceto nitrile (glycolonitrile) in production

C2H3NO is widely used in many industries due to its special chemical properties. In the chemical industry, it is an important raw material for producing complex organic compounds, including dyes, stabilizers, and special plastics. The pharmaceutical industry also uses this compound in the synthesis of active ingredients for drug production, especially for compounds that require high stability and purity.

In the agricultural sector, this compound is used in the production of pesticides and various plant protection chemicals, where it acts as an intermediate to create highly effective final products. The materials industry also utilizes C2H3NO in the manufacturing process of synthetic fibers and insulation materials.


4. How does Hydroxy aceto nitrile (glycolonitrile) affect workers?

Exposure to C2H3NO in the workplace can cause many serious health effects for workers. This compound is easily absorbed through the respiratory tract, skin, or mucous membranes, thereby entering the body and causing damage to vital organs. When inhaling vapor or in direct contact with the skin, workers may experience symptoms such as skin and eye irritation, and difficulty breathing.

At high or prolonged exposure levels, this compound can be toxic to the central nervous system, leading to dizziness, headaches, nausea, and in severe cases, coma. Its toxicity also affects the cardiovascular system, potentially causing heart rhythm disorders or reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

In addition, without adequate protective equipment, workers are at risk of accumulating this chemical in their bodies, leading to chronic health problems such as liver and kidney damage.


5. Permissible safe concentration of Hydroxy aceto nitrile (glycolonitrile) for human exposure

The safe concentration of C2H3NO for human exposure is determined based on international occupational safety standards, aimed at protecting workers’ health from its toxic effects. The permissible concentration limit is usually measured in parts per million (ppm) in the air, and this value may vary depending on the regulations of each country or organization.

According to studies, the maximum permissible concentration (TLV – Threshold Limit Value) in the work environment is usually set at a very low level to avoid acute reactions such as irritation or long-term health effects. Some international guidelines also recommend a Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL) for temporary exposures not exceeding 15 minutes. However, if this limit is exceeded, the risk of serious damage to the nervous system, respiratory system, and internal organs increases significantly.

At a basic level, if working in an industrial environment, adhering to safety standards and limiting exposure to Hydroxy acetonitrile is important. 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 impacts of chemical substances.


6. Measures to minimize the impact of Hydroxy aceto nitrile (glycolonitrile) on workers’ health

To minimize the impact of C2H3NO on workers’ health, a combination of technical, managerial, and safety education measures is necessary. First, the ventilation and local exhaust systems must be designed effectively to control the chemical concentration in the air. Measuring devices should be installed to continuously monitor the concentration of C2H3NO, ensuring it does not exceed the permissible safety threshold.

Providing adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as chemical-resistant masks, gloves, protective clothing, and safety glasses is mandatory. This equipment helps prevent the compound from entering through the respiratory tract, skin, and mucous membranes. At the same time, factories need to implement a regular maintenance program for machinery and production equipment to prevent chemical leaks into the work environment.

In addition, training and raising awareness among workers about the potential risks of C2H3NO plays a crucial role. Training courses should focus on instructing how to recognize signs of exposure, use protective equipment correctly, and take emergency action in case of a chemical incident. Conducting regular health check-ups is also an indispensable measure to detect early signs of abnormalities due to chemical exposure, thereby providing timely treatment options.

Finally, there must be strict compliance with chemical safety regulations, including the storage, transportation, and handling of C2H3NO according to proper standards. This not only protects the health of workers but also contributes to building a safe and sustainable work environment.

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 organize occupational environment monitoring in factories and enterprises, collect and analyze factors harmful to workers, and thereby adjust to reduce hazard levels to prevent occupational diseases for them.


7. National Occupational Environment Monitoring Center

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 to ensure accuracy and reliability.

REGISTER FOR OCCUPATIONAL ENVIRONMENT MONITORING SERVICES

In addition to providing monitoring services, the center also assists clients in planning, handling, and tracking issues related to the occupational 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 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 and specialized Masters and Engineers, we aim to protect the environment and benefit businesses.
Official letter from the Department of Health agreeing to the announcement of eligibility to conduct occupational environment monitoring activities
  • 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 Occupational Environment Monitoring

To help businesses conduct occupational environment monitoring professionally and effectively, Nam Viet provides our customers with a quality and reasonably priced quotation for occupational environment monitoring services.

  • Our monitoring quotation provides detailed information on the pricing 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 consultation and answer any questions about our monitoring services quickly and professionally.
  • With Nam Viet’s monitoring quotation, customers can easily choose service packages that suit their needs. We are committed to bringing our customers the highest satisfaction with professional quality service.

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