Workers
exposed to certain industrial chemicals are at increased risk of contracting
lung or bladder cancer, according to a groundbreaking report by the Health and
Safety Executive.
Polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of chemicals found in every industry,
especially where substances are burned, such as aluminium smelting and coke
production.
The
report reveals that staff exposed to around one microgram of PAHs every year over
40 years are 8 per cent more likely to contact lung cancer.
The
findings of the research are now being used to help the HSE to develop an
occupational exposure limit for working with PAHs.
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