Sulphuric Acid Mist & Occupational Health Issues (2016)

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This paper was compiled to give guidance on the assessment, evaluation and control of occupational exposure to sulphuric acid mist, with an emphasis on recommending a health‐based occupational exposure limit (OEL). The current Safe Work Australia (SWA) workplace exposure standard (WES) and current international OELs are discussed and the possible health effects examined.

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Description

Key messages:

  • Sulphuric acid mist at high concentrations causes corrosion of the teeth and is irritating to the respiratory system, but long‐term low concentration exposure can also cause cancer of the larynx.
  • The AIOH believes that exposure may be adequately controlled by conventional means such as local exhaust ventilation and segregation of workers from areas of high concentration.
  • A standard to limit exposure to no more than 0.1 mg of sulphuric acid mist in each cubic metre of air is recommended for the measured inhalable fraction.

Additional information

Publisher

AIOH

Published

July 2015

Author

AIOH Exposure Standards Committee and authorised by AIOH Council.

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