Prevention of Poisoning Through Management of Chemical Risks in the Workplace

• Published in: Clinical toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.) Pa.), 2008-06, Vol.46 (5), p.351-351
• Main Authors: Trauth, B J, Nasterlack, M, Zober, A
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1556-3650
• DOI: 10.1080/15563650802071703

Objective: To manage the occupational hazards associated with the production and use of numerous potentially toxic chemicals at the world's largest chemical site. Method: BASF has set up a comprehensive system to deal with the risk of injury or intoxication with chemical substances that includes accident prevention by means of plant design and process safety. The Occupational Medical and Health Protection Department and the Safety and Environmental Department work closely together in performing workplace risk assessment and education of the workers in the safe handling of hazardous substances. Every worker handling hazardous chemicals receives regular medical examination, including biomonitoring, when appropriate. For management of emergency exposures, immediate response is crucial. To this end, the following are available: trained first-aiders at each plant; an on-site medical emergency service; an emergency physician on duty 24/7; and a site clinic equipped with decontamination materials, antidotes and adequate personal protective equipment. Processes for immediate decontamination and treatment of intoxicated employees have been defined and are verified in regularly performed drills. Toxicological evaluations and specific treatment guidelines (Chemical Emergency Medical Guidelines) for chemicals are prepared to guarantee current medical treatment. The information management of public and media is the last step of our system. Results: Among a total number of 33,000 employees at the BASF Ludwigshafen site in 2006 there have been 1,375 accidents documented in the site clinic. Most of these accidents were mechanically caused and insignificant. 234 of the accidents were caused by chemicals (106 effects with systemic symptoms, 67 chemical bums, 61 irritations). The most frequent chemicals involved were: acrylic acid, sodium hydroxide, nitric acid, ammonia, sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, formaldehyde, phosgene, phthalic anhydride and chlorine. Only five patients were transferred to external specialist treatment, and only one was hospitalized. All others were treated in the site clinic. Conclusion: The BASF system of management of chemical risks is effective in the prevention of chemical poisoning and health sequelae. Regular updates of program, materials and training of staff are a prerequisite for the continuing effectiveness of this system.