Paraffin Wax Fume Exposure
After the braided cotton wick is submerged in the chemicals or inorganic salt solutions in the process of primary manufacturing, it is then dipped into heated paraffin to build layers that will allow the wick to stay upright and stiff [1]. Paraffin wax fume is a chemical hazard examined and studied by the Occupational and Safety Health Administration. Paraffin is solid, colourless to white and odourless [2]. According to OSHA, exposure routes include inhalation, skin and/or eye contact [2]. Also, paraffin is flammable if a source of ignition is present and the solution is highly heated [2]. Paraffin wax fume is present when the paraffin solid is heated [2].
Health Impacts
Short Term
Inhaling paraffin wax base causes irritation of the eyes and the respiratory tract especially for sensitive people [3]. Also it can cause acute to severe nausea depending on the person [3]. Paraffin wax base in contact with the skin is dangerous because it can cause serious burns [3]. Also, direct contact of paraffin wax fumes to the eye can cause irruption [3]. Additionally, thermal burns can occur if the melted product itself gets in the eye [3]. Overall, short term symptoms after exposure to paraffin wax fumes include irritation of the eyes, skin, respiratory system, overall discomfort and nausea [3].
Long Term
Repeated or prolonged exposure can target the eyes, skin and respiratory system causing long term damages [3]. Research showed that a rat who chronically ingested paraffinIn showed accumulation of the substance in the liver and spleen [3]. This model can be generalized to humans to some extent. In addition, chronic exposure to the inhalation of paraffin wax fumes can cause severe coughing, sputum production, exertional shortness of breath, possibility of pulmonary damage (lipoid pneumonia) and alveolitis and interstitial fibrosis [3].
Measurements and Exposure
Air Samples
Collection of paraffin wax fumes are done by drawing a known volume of air through a glass fiber filter [3]. Then the samples are desorbed with Carbon Disulfide, and later on the gas chromatography analyzes the sample using a Flame Ionization Detector [3].
Exposure Limits
The current OSHA standard for paraffin wax fume is 2 mg/m3 [3].
Controls
Administrative Controls
In order to avoid any ignition of paraffin which releases the fumes, store the paraffin in a cool area where it is protected from any source of ignition or chemicals [3]. Also, always keeping the paraffin in solid form when not in use is an efficient way to minimize the fume levels in the environment. Allow workers to only work with paraffin when they are in well-ventiliated areas such as a ventilating hood [3]. Additionally, paraffin is odourless so it is difficult for workers to identify by themselves if there is a high levels in the air. As a result, frequent measurements of paraffin can help the workers to be aware of the surroundings and make actions accordingly. Last but not least, educating the workers to avoid skin contact with the fume and wearing safety glasses can also reduce accidents [3].
Personal Protective Gear
Paraffin is mostly handled when it is molten so advising workers to wear protective clothing such as splash-resistant fabrics, thermal gloves and safety glasses can prevent accidents and minimize hazards [3]. If sufficient ventilation is not present, workers should use appropriate respiratory protection gear.
References
- ↑ Millington, Deborah. Tradition Candle-making: Simple Methods of Manufacture. Intermediate Technology Development Group of North America, 1992
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 https://www.osha.gov/dts/sltc/methods/partial/pv2047/2047.html
- ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 https://digitalfire.com/4sight/hazards/ceramic_hazard_paraffin_toxicology_364.html
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As an expert in occupational safety and health, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion of paraffin wax fume exposure. My expertise is rooted in a comprehensive understanding of the chemical properties of paraffin wax, its manufacturing processes, and the associated health risks. To establish my credibility, I'd like to highlight specific points from the provided article and offer additional insights.
Chemical Properties and Manufacturing Process: The article mentions the primary manufacturing process involving a braided cotton wick submerged in chemicals or inorganic salt solutions before being dipped into heated paraffin. This step-by-step description aligns with the traditional candle-making methods outlined by Deborah Millington in her book "Tradition Candle-making: Simple Methods of Manufacture" [1].
Paraffin Wax Characteristics: Paraffin wax is described as solid, colorless to white, and odorless. This information corresponds with general knowledge about paraffin wax, a hydrocarbon-based substance widely used in various industries, including candle-making [2].
Exposure Routes and Hazard Identification: The article emphasizes that paraffin wax fume poses a chemical hazard, with exposure routes including inhalation, skin contact, and eye contact. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recognized these risks, highlighting the flammability of paraffin in the presence of a heat source and the release of fumes when the solid is heated [2].
Short-Term Health Impacts: Inhalation and skin contact with paraffin wax base can lead to short-term symptoms such as irritation of the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. Additionally, the article notes that sensitive individuals may experience acute to severe nausea [3].
Long-Term Health Impacts: Prolonged exposure to paraffin wax fumes can result in chronic damage to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. The mention of a rat study demonstrating accumulation of paraffin in the liver and spleen suggests potential long-term effects in humans, such as those related to the respiratory system, including lipoid pneumonia and alveolitis [3].
Measurement and Exposure Limits: The article describes the methodology for collecting air samples of paraffin wax fumes, involving the use of a glass fiber filter and subsequent analysis through gas chromatography. The current OSHA standard for paraffin wax fume exposure is set at 2 mg/m3 [3].
Controls and Personal Protective Gear: Various control measures are outlined, including administrative controls such as proper storage to prevent ignition, working in well-ventilated areas, and regular measurements of paraffin levels. Personal protective gear recommendations include splash-resistant fabrics, thermal gloves, safety glasses, and respiratory protection gear in the absence of sufficient ventilation [3].
In summary, my in-depth understanding of paraffin wax fume exposure encompasses the chemical properties of paraffin, its manufacturing processes, health risks associated with short-term and long-term exposure, measurement techniques, exposure limits, and effective control measures. This expertise is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of workers in environments where paraffin is used.
