Abstract |
Human subjects were exposed to vapors of 'Stoddard' solvent, 70 Solvent and mixed xylenes to ascertain (a) whether appreciable eye, nose or throat irritation was experienced during continuous 30 minute exposures and (b) whether these solvents had any effect on three measures of psychomotor function. The maximum concentration of Stoddard solvent was 2.40 mg/1, four times the value currently suggested by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The maximum value of 70 solvent used as 1.40 mg/1 and for the mixed xylenes, 1.72 mg/1, again both approximately 4 times the recommended TLV value. A flow-dilution olfactometer system was used for all exposures. Subjective reports of eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as polygraph records of eye-blink and respiration rate were recorded during 30-minute exposures to the solvent or to control air. |