Environmental Regulations and Occupational Hazards in the Automotive Repair Industry.
Source: American Public Health Association
Environmental Regulations and Occupational Hazards in the Automotive Repair Industry
Abstract
Hexane is a non-chlorinated solvent used in aerosol products for cleaning parts, brakes and engines in the automotive repair industry. It was first identified as a peripheral neurotoxin in 1964. Approximately one million brake jobs are performed each year in California using hexane-based solvents. The California Department of Health Services Occupational Health Branch has identified several automotive mechanics in the Bay Area with peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage in the legs and arms) resulting from their use of hexane-based solvents. These are the first cases to be identified in this industry.
The use of hexane in the automotive repair industry may increase in California following the California Air Resources Board's (ARB) recent decision to phase-out solvents containing perchloroethylene, methylene chloride and trichloroethylene from this industry. ARB's decision was based on findings of a cancer risk assessment for persons living or working in the vicinity of automotive repair facilities, as well as on concerns over water and soil contamination. Hexane is a possible substitute in the 5,000 California shops where these chlorinated products are used.
This case illustrates the potential for environmental rules to exacerbate (or introduce new) occupational hazards. Integrating environmental and occupational health perspectives in the rule-making process would better protect public health and the environment.
Author: Mike Wilson
Doctoral Program
Environmental Health Sciences
School of Public Health
19 Warren Hall #7360
University of California, Berkeley
94720
CA Dept. of Health Services
Occupational Health Branch
510-622-4304
This page updated Thursday May 20 2004