Intervention strategies directed at exposure to organic solvents at worksites: A case study

Abstract

Exposure to organic solvents is a serious occupational health problem. Research has mainly been focused on the harmful medical effects of the substances. Models for practical safety work are lacking. The purpose of this review is to summarize and scrutinize experience gained by implementing methods for early detection of symptoms caused by exposure to solvents in the health services and practical safety work in the wood processing industry. Five interdependent phases have been developed during a 10-year period within the framework of a multidisciplinary collaboration: i) community diagnosis, ii) a treatment program, iii) an occupational environment program, iv) education and v) a demonstration plant. The results illustrate the need for regional epidemiological surveillance and increased collaboration between the health services and other sectors of the community.