Caustic Mist Exposure and Respiratory Outcomes in a Cohort Study of Alumina Refinery Workers

A common chemical exposure in alumina refining is caustic mist. Although recognized as a strong airways irritant, little is known of the chronic respiratory effects of caustic mist in alumina refining. A suitable metric for caustic mist exposure assessment in alumina refining for epidemiological purposes has not been identified. Peak exposure is likely to be important, but is difficult to assess in epidemiological studies.

Citation:
Benke G, Del Monaco A, Dennekamp M, Dimitriadis C, Gwini SM, De Klerk N, et al. Caustic Mist Exposure and Respiratory Outcomes in a Cohort Study of Alumina Refinery Workers. Ann Work Expo Health. 2021;65(6):703-14.

Keywords:
Alumina industry; exposure assessment; respiratory symptoms and effects; epidemiological studies

Abstract:
A common chemical exposure in alumina refining is caustic mist. Although recognized as a strong airways irritant, little is known of the chronic respiratory effects of caustic mist in alumina refining. A suitable metric for caustic mist exposure assessment in alumina refining for epidemiological purposes has not been identified. Peak exposure is likely to be important, but is difficult to assess in epidemiological studies.