Working environment factors
How does Vinyl Fluoride affect workers’ health?
Feb
Vinyl fluoride (C₂H₃F) – an important chemical in industry but with many potential risks to the health of workers. Long-term exposure can cause lung, liver, and nervous system damage. So how can you protect yourself when working in an environment containing this chemical? Let’s find out now!
1. What is Vinyl fluoride (Ethene, fluoro-)?
Vinyl fluoride (Ethene, fluoro-), with the chemical formula C₂H₃F, is an organic compound belonging to the hydrofluorocarbon group, in which one hydrogen atom of ethene (C₂H₄) is replaced by a fluorine atom. It is a colorless, flammable gas with a mild odor, commonly used in the production of polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) – a polymer with high chemical stability, widely used in the plastics and protective coatings industry.
Vinyl fluoride has special physical and chemical properties, making it an important raw material in many industrial processes. However, due to its high volatility and flammability, this compound requires strict control during storage and use. When exposed to high temperatures or a flame source, vinyl fluoride can decompose to produce toxic gases such as hydrofluoric acid (HF) and carbon monoxide (CO), posing a danger to human health.
In the work environment, vinyl fluoride mainly exists in a gaseous state and can enter the body through the respiratory tract. Long-term exposure to this compound can lead to serious health effects, especially to the respiratory system and liver. Therefore, a clear understanding of the nature of vinyl fluoride, along with control and safety measures, is extremely important for workers in industries that use this chemical.
| No. | Chemical Name in Vietnamese | Chemical Name in English | HS Code | CAS Number | Chemical Formula |
| 1. | Vinyl florua | Vinyl fluoride (Ethene, fluoro-) | 29033990 | 75-02-5 | C2H3F |
See more: chemical safety training service according to Decree 113/2017/ND-CP
REGISTER FOR CHEMICAL SAFETY TRAINING ACCORDING TO DECREE 113
2. Where does Vinyl fluoride (Ethene, fluoro-) originate from in the production process?
In industrial production, the compound C₂H₃F is mainly created through chemical reactions between ethene (C₂H₄) and hydrogen fluoride (HF) under suitable catalytic and temperature conditions. This is the main synthesis method to create vinyl fluoride, which serves the production of the polymer polyvinyl fluoride (PVF), a type of plastic with high chemical resistance.
The source of this compound often appears at organic chemical manufacturing plants, especially those specializing in producing fluoropolymers. During synthesis, vinyl fluoride gas can escape from the reaction system, raw material storage tanks, or intermediate product processing stages. In addition, leaks from pipes, valves, or storage tanks can also contribute to the release of this compound into the work environment.
Besides that, when carrying out pyrolysis or combustion processes of products containing fluorinated polymers, the compound C₂H₃F can be released as a byproduct. This particularly occurs in industrial waste recycling or treatment plants, where PVF plastic decomposes under the effect of high temperature. Controlling these sources of emission plays an important role in ensuring occupational safety and minimizing the risk of environmental pollution.
3. Industries that use Vinyl fluoride (Ethene, fluoro-) in production
The compound C₂H₃F is used mainly in industries producing polymer materials, especially polyvinyl fluoride (PVF). This is a type of plastic with high anti-corrosion properties, thermal stability, and resistance to chemical impact, so it is often widely used in the production of surface coating films, protective paints, and anti-corrosion coatings for metals in the aviation, automotive, and construction industries.
In the plastics and chemical industries, this compound plays an important role in the synthesis of fluoropolymers. Plants that produce PVF films, adhesives, and fluorine-containing coatings often use C₂H₃F as a raw material. In addition, it is also used in the production of insulating materials and protective coatings for electrical cables, thanks to its good chemical and thermal resistance.
The electronics industry also uses C₂H₃F in the process of producing insulating materials and components with high requirements for thermal stability. Products containing fluoropolymers are often used in electronic circuit boards, anti-static coatings, and special insulating materials, helping to improve the performance and lifespan of devices.
Besides that, in the aerospace field, this compound is used to produce protective coatings for aircraft surfaces and high-stress parts, helping to minimize the impact of harsh environments. The durability of PVF material helps protect important structures from corrosion and damage due to weather and chemical impacts.
4. How does Vinyl fluoride (Ethene, fluoro-) affect workers?
The compound C₂H₃F can cause many negative effects on the health of workers when exposed in the work environment. Due to its volatile nature, this gas can enter the body through the respiratory tract, leading to serious lung problems. Inhaling high concentrations for a long time can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, shortness of breath, and increase the risk of chronic lung diseases.
In addition to affecting the respiratory system, this compound can also have a negative impact on the liver. Some studies show that long-term exposure to C₂H₃F gas can damage liver cells, cause liver dysfunction, and even lead to serious diseases such as cirrhosis or chemical-induced liver damage. This is particularly dangerous for workers in environments with high gas concentrations without appropriate protective measures.
The nervous system can also be affected by long-term exposure to this compound. Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, and memory impairment. If exposed to high levels, workers may experience a loss of concentration, neurological disorders, and a decline in reflex ability. These effects can impact work performance and increase the risk of occupational accidents.
Direct contact with the skin or eyes can also cause irritation, redness, and discomfort. In some severe cases, this compound can cause chemical burns, especially with high concentration or long-term exposure without appropriate protective equipment. The level of impact depends on the gas concentration in the air, the duration of exposure, and the health status of each individual.
5. Permissible safe concentration of Vinyl fluoride (Ethene, fluoro-) for human exposure
The safe limit of the compound C₂H₃F in the work environment is determined based on occupational health and safety standards to protect workers from harmful effects. According to the regulations of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for this gas is typically set at 1 ppm (part per million) in the air, averaged over an 8-hour workday.
In addition, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) also provides a similar recommended exposure limit (REL) to ensure a safe work environment. If the concentration of C₂H₃F gas in the air exceeds this level, workers are at risk of respiratory irritation, liver damage, and nervous system problems.
In some special cases, if the gas concentration reaches 5 ppm or more, continuous exposure can cause acute symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. When the concentration exceeds 10 ppm, the risk of poisoning increases, requiring emergency control measures, including ventilation systems, personal protective equipment, and regular air quality monitoring.
These safety standards may vary depending on the regulations of each country or health organization, but all aim to limit the risks when working in an environment with C₂H₃F gas. Adherence to these limits is a necessary condition to protect the health of workers and minimize the negative effects of long-term chemical exposure.
On a basic level, when working in an industrial environment, it is important to comply with safety standards and limit exposure to Vinyl fluoride. 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 minimize the effects of Vinyl fluoride (Ethene, fluoro-) on worker health
To minimize the effects of the compound C₂H₃F on worker health, controlling the work environment is the most important factor. The ventilation system must be installed and maintained effectively to limit the accumulation of gas in the air, especially in production and chemical storage areas. The use of a local exhaust system at the source of emission helps to minimize the risk of direct contact with this compound.
Personal protective equipment plays an important role in protecting workers from the effects of C₂H₃F gas. Respirators with appropriate filters help prevent the gas from entering the respiratory tract, while gloves, safety goggles, and chemical-resistant clothing help to limit the risk of exposure through the skin and eyes. Workers need to be instructed on the proper use of protective equipment to ensure maximum protection.
Controlling the chemical concentration in the work environment is a necessary measure to ensure safety. Regular air quality monitoring with specialized measuring devices helps to promptly detect gas concentrations exceeding the safe threshold, thereby allowing for appropriate response measures. If a gas level higher than the permissible limit is detected, immediate mitigation measures must be taken, such as increasing ventilation or limiting the number of people working in the affected area.
In addition to technical measures, training and raising awareness for workers about the risks of C₂H₃F is also very important. A regular training program helps workers to clearly understand the signs of poisoning, how to provide first aid in case of an incident, and emergency response procedures. When workers have the necessary knowledge and skills, they will be more proactive in protecting themselves and their colleagues from risks during work.
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 proper adherence to safety rules.
Periodically organize workplace environmental monitoring in factories and enterprises, collecting and analyzing factors harmful to workers, and from there, adjusting to reduce the level of harm to prevent occupational diseases for them.
7. National Workplace Environmental Monitoring Center
Nam Viet’s Workplace Environmental Monitoring Center is a professional unit for 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 WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING SERVICE
In addition to providing monitoring services, the center also supports customers in planning, handling, and tracking workplace environmental issues. With the motto “the customer is the center,” the center is concerned with customer satisfaction, meeting all customer needs, and is committed 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 workplace environmental 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 customers with the best and most suitable things possible.
- Along with a team of experienced Masters and Engineers with a desire to protect the environment and benefit businesses.
- Coming to the Nam Viet Environmental Monitoring team, your company will receive professional service with experts in the field of monitoring. At the same time, you will get the best cost incentives.
8. Quotation for Workplace Environmental Monitoring
To help businesses carry out workplace environmental monitoring in a professional and effective manner, Nam Viet provides our customers with a quality and reasonably priced quotation for workplace environmental 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. You can be completely confident in 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 monitoring services in the quickest and most professional manner.
- With Nam Viet’s quotation, you can easily choose the service packages that suit your needs. We are committed to bringing you the highest satisfaction with our professional service quality.
