ARMY REGULATION 11-34 (RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM

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TG No. 144 August 1987

CHAPTER 7
MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE

7-1. GENERAL. Retrospective epldemlologic studies of painters have
demonstrated an increased incidence of neurobehavioral symptoms. However,
there is poor evidence of objective neurophysiologic deterioration as measured
by behavioral testing, nerve conduction testing, and physical examination
findings. Other case-control studies have suggested an increased risk of
lung, laryngeal, and esophageal cancers In painters. Painters are exposed to
a wide variety of chemicals whictf can affect specific organ systems or present
generalized toxicity. Additionally, painters perform a wide variety of tasks
which may Increase the risk of exposure to these chemical substances.

7-2. HAZARDS.

a. Solvents. A wide variety of solvents (including ethyl acetate,
toluene, xylene, MEK and 2-ethoxyethyl acetate)'are encountered in painting
operations. They are generally well-absorbed through the skin and respiratory
epithelium. The central nervous system and peripheral nervous system are
commonly affected by these compounds. The gastrointestinal, respiratory,
hepatic, renal, and hematopoletic systems may also be adversely affected by
solvents, depending on the specific type of compound. Solvents act as
defatting agents which may lead to fissuring and reddening of the skin.
Misuse of solvents to clean the skin Is often implicated in causing dermatitis
in painters. Solvent vapors may produce eye Irritation. Inhalation of
ess, nausea. headache,
narcosis, or unconsciousness. Solvents are thought to be the agents
responsible for the production of neurobehavioral symptomatology (such as
numbness or tingling in the hands, irritability, depression, or an Inability
to concentrate) seen in chronically exposed painters. Cellosolve acetate
(2-ethoxyethyl acetate), which may be a constituent in CARC, will also produce
mucous membrane and skin irritation.

b. Isocyanate. HDI is a constituent In CARC and has been associated with
the respiratory effects seen during and after the application of this
material. HDI is highly Irritating to the skin and mucous membranes--
producing itching and reddening of the skin, a burning sensation of the throat
and nose, and watering of the eyes. In sufficient concentrations, HDI may
cause acute pulmonary symptoms to include cough, shortness of breath, pain on
respiration. Increased sputum production, and chest tightness. In a small
percentage of the workforce, it may produce asthmatic symptoms through an
allergic, Immunoglobulin E-medicated mechanism. These allergic symptoms may
be present: coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, or shortness of
breath. This allergic reaction may occur a few days or months after initial
exposure to HDI, and can occur at atmospheric concentrations lower than

7-1

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Box ID = BX000000
Unit = VII CORPS
Parent Organization = ARCENT
Folder Title = PORT OPERATIONS CARC PAINTING POLICY
Subject = ARMY REGULATION 11-34 (RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
Document Number = 103
Image file name = 00000129.tif