1‐Chlor‐2,3‐epoxypropan (Epichlorhydrin) [BAT Value Documentation in German language, 2017]

Abstract

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated EKA (exposure equivalents for carcinogenic substances) for epichlorohydrin (CAS‐No 106‐89‐8) in 2017. Available publications are described in detail. In rodents, epichlorohydrin induces malignant lymphomas, hyperplasias, forestomach papillomas and carcinomas, subcutaneous fibromas and lung and pituitary tumours. Epichlorohydrin was classified in category 2 for carcinogenic substances. The substance can easily pass through the skin, so biological monitoring is indicated for a valid individual risk assessment. In several biomonitoring studies the mercapturic acids derivatives N‐acetyl‐S‐(3‐chloro‐2‐hydroxypropyl)‐L‐cysteine (CHPMA) and N‐acetyl‐S‐(2,3‐dihydroxypropyl)‐L‐cysteine (DHPMA) in urine as well as the hemoglobin adducts N‐(3‐chloro‐2‐hydroxypropyl)valine and N‐(2,3‐dihydroxypropyl)valine are suggested as biomarkers after epichlorohydrin exposure. Validated analytical procedures for their quantification are available. Data of a correlation of epichlorohydrin in the air and the CHPMA‐excretion in urine were considered for the evaluation of exposure equivalents for carcinogenic substances. Sampling time is at the end of exposure or end of shift and after long term exposure at the end of the shift after several shifts.