Citation

Jang JK. Ind. Health 2015; 54(2): 101-115.

Affiliation

Work Environment Research Department, Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Republic of Korea.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, National Institute of Industrial Health, Japan)

DOI

10.2486/indhealth.2015-0071

PMID

26538000

Abstract

Various amines, such as triethylamine and N,N-dimethylethylamine, have been reported to cause glaucopsia in workers employed in epoxy, foundry, and polyurethane foam industries. This symptom has been related to corneal edema and vesicular collection of fluid within the corneal subepithelial cells. Exposure to amine vapors for 30 minutes to several hours leads to blurring of vision, a blue-grey appearance of objects, and halos around lights, that are probably reversible. Concentration-effect relationships have been established. The visual disturbance is considered a nuisance, as it could cause onsite accidents, impair work efficiency, and create difficulties in driving back home. Occupational exposure limits have been established for some amines, but there is shortage of criteria. Volatility factors, such as vapor pressure, should be considered in industrial settings to prevent human ocular risks, while trying to reduce levels of hazardous amines in the atmosphere.

Language: en