Valuation of PAHs' metabolite in workers. Case of study in an environmental monitoring laboratory

Abstract

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic compounds, formed by pyrolysis or during incomplete combustion of organic matter and naturally forming part of the composition of fossil fuels. They can enter the body through various pathways such as respiratory, gastrointestinal and dermal; and many are considered to be carcinogenic and/or mutagenic so their exposure deserves special attention. Environmental Monitoring Laboratory Technicians (LABSSA) are exposed to emissions from fixed sources during the execution of the monitoring these gases from chimneys, for this reason this study focused on the monitoring of breathable air quality in the working environment during exposure activities. To determine the presence of PAH in the Technicians' body, the metabolite 1-HOP was determined in the urine, having urine samples for five consecutive days of exposure. For the quantification of 1-HOP, an analytical method was optimized by HPLC. The results of 1-HOP were compared with the biological exposure rates indicated by the Superintendency of Occupational Risks (IB of 2 ug/g creatinine, 1 umol/mol creatinine), which allowed to establish whether the health of the workers is affected or not. In addition, to confirm whether workers' health is affected, clinical parameters such as blood pressure, oxygenation, hematocrit and creatinine were evaluated on each day of exposure.