Reference

BOHRF Original Authors' Main Conclusions

The original authors' main conclusions are taken from Abstract, Results and Discussion. They are decided upon by the authors of the BOHRF occupational asthma guidelines and form part of the guidelines.

Study evaluated respiratory health in workers using methylene diphenyl di-isocyanate (MDI) at a new wood products manufacturing plant designed to minimise worker exposure. New-onset asthma-like symptoms were reported in 15/56 workers in areas with the highest potential for exposure versus 0/43 workers in the lowest potential exposure areas. In high exposure areas, new-onset asthma-like symptoms developed in 47% of workers who had noted MDI skin staining versus 19% without skin stains. Working around and cleaning up liquid MDI represented a significant risk for asthma-like symptoms in both current smokers and non-smokers. Asthma-like symptoms were associated with variable airflow limitation and specific IgE to MDI-albumin but not with skin prick tests to common aeroallergens. Authors conclude that to prevent asthma symptoms among workers, careful control of respiratory tract exposures associated with liquid MDI is important, especially during cleanup activities. Strict limitation of skin contact with di-isocyanates may also be necessary.

BOHRF Associated Evidence Statements

The BOHRF occupational asthma guidelines state that this reference is associated with the following evidence statements