Occupational exposure in Polish paint and lacquer industry.

Evaluation of occupational exposure to solvent vapours in the production of paints and lacquers is presented. The measurements were carried out in 5 paint and lacquer producing plants of the varied level of technical and technological advancement. Evaluation of exposure was based on determination of all substances identified in the work environment. Analysis was performed by gas chromatography with MSD and FID. Standard mixtures composed of 40 substances were used for calibration. The determined levels of exposure were directly dependent on technical conditions and modernisation status in factories investigated. Measurements were carried out in the uniform analytical system, which assures comparability of the data from all the factories under study.