Delayed Effects of Acute Alcoholic Intoxication on Occupational Safety and Health

摘要

Biomechanical study of the pharmaco-kinesiological side and the after-effects of alcohol, developing a three part experimental protocol using apparatus and techniques designed and constructed at the Division of Biomechanics. Various amounts of alcohol when administered yield blood alcohol levels ranging from 65-175 milligrams %. Nine healthy, male subjects are tested, each on different days. Delayed effects, sometimes lasting at least 18 hours after ingestion of alcohol are found, including lengthened reaction time, poor motor performance, and decreased motor/sensory skill. In addition, inability to manipulate and position without tactile and/or visual facilitation is noted. Further, visual scanning is limited and postural control is somewhat deteriorated. Evaluation of psychological tests reveal a somewhat vague, but pronounced effect on subjective feeling or mood.