The respiratory occupational risk to workers exposed to enzymes in detergents

The addition of encapsulated enzymes (proteases and lipases) to detergents in Morocco dates from 1993. We have carried out a retrospective survey which has enabled us to evaluate the prevalence of the clinical symptoms and respiratory function problems in two groups, one exposed and the other non-exposed. This enquiry which concerns 32 exposed workers and 42 non-exposed consisted of a questionnaire (CECA OMS), a chest x-ray and some respiratory function tests. The medical study involves a question in the workplace with an evaluation of dust levels (weight of dust and enzyme activity). Fifty seven per cent of those exposed had clinical respiratory symptomatology against only 7 per cent of those who were not exposed. Rhinitis, asthma, cough, chronic bronchitis, eczema and conjunctivitis were significantly more frequent in those exposed than in the non-exposed. Respiratory function was altered in 65.5 per cent of the exposed against only 38.6 per cent of those who were not exposed. The overall lung function was of an obstructive type. The peak flow (VEMS) were more frequently reduced in those exposed (25 per cent) than in the non-exposed (7.14 per cent). These anomalies were works at the end of a day's work. Atopy seems to be a potentiating factor. Tobacco interferes significantly in the alteration of respiratory function parameters. The enquiry in the work place revealed evidence of insufficient means of protection for the work force and elevated levels of dust which pass the mean recommended atmospheric values (500 mcg per cubic mm). On the other hand, enzymatic activity of the dust collected remained within normal limits (<0.5 GU/m(3)). It is thus imperative to develop means for collective prevention (a more effective encapsulation of the enzymes, work in closed areas, ventilation with more effective dust extraction) and individuals (protective clothing and specific respiratory masks for the enzymes) to maximally reduce the risk.