Current Intelligence Bulletin 26. NIAX (Trade Name) Catalyst ESN: A Mixture of Dimethylaminopropionitrile and Bis(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl) Ether

摘要

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) jointly recommend that NIAX Catalyst ESN and its components, dimethylaminopropionitrile and bis(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl) ether, as well as formulations containing either component, be handled in the workplace as exceedingly hazardous materials. Investigations of outbreaks of urinary dysfunction among workers at a number of facilities that manufacture flexible polyurethane foam strongly suggest an association between NIAX Catalyst ESN and the urological disorders. There is no current Federal standard for occupational exposure to NIAX Catalyst ESN or either of its components. However, on April 7, 1978, OSHA issued a Health Hazard Alert and indicated 'it is imperative that worker exposure to ESN and its components be completely avoided.'