QUESTION

Solvents are among the most commonly used chemicals in workplaces. Workers in different jobs regularly use solvents for degreasing, metal cleaning, and as paint thinners or lubricants.

(a) Outline at least ten factors to be considered when assessing the health risks from exposure to solvents in a factory producing home furniture with a range of painted and varnished finishes.

(b) Solvents have been observed to show neurotoxicity. Explain the term neurotoxicity. List the neurotoxicity symptoms normally associated with short-term and long term exposure to vapours of solvents.

(c) List and elaborate in terms of priority at least five possible measures you would adopt to control the exposure of workers to solvents

(d) An industrial continuous process liberates 0.2 Cubic meter of a solvent chlorobenzene per hour into a room that measures 6.0 meters by 12.0 meters feet and has a ceiling of 4.0 meters height. What minimum general exhaust ventilation in cubic meters per minute is necessary to prevent a general health hazard in this room? The PEL for chlorobenzene is 75 ppm