Pulmonary function abnormality and respiratory tract irritation symptoms in epichlorohydrin-exposed workers in Taiwan

Background Epichlorohydrin (ECH) is a strong irritant of the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. The aims of this study were to examine the dose‐response relationship between observed abnormal pulmonary function tests and respiratory tract irritation symptoms among epichlorohydrin‐exposed workers in Taiwan. Methods A total of 167 workers were randomly selected from a resin synthesis factory. Sixty‐six air samples were taken to determine ECH concentration in the workplace. Demographic data, work history, smoking status, and respiratory tract irritation symptoms were gathered by a standard self‐administered questionnaire. Pulmonary function tests were also performed. Results There were 13 of 41 (31.7%) abnormal mean mid‐expiratory flow (MMEF) among the high‐ECH‐exposed workers, 11 of 38 (29%) among the low‐ECH‐exposed workers, and 4 of 59 (6.8%) among non‐ECH‐exposed workers. There was a significant linear trend between ECH exposure and the prevalence of small airway abnormalities (P = 0.007) after adjusting for other factors. There was also a significant dose‐response relationship of respiratory tract irritation symptoms (cough, phlegm, chest tightness, and dyspnea) among the ECH‐exposed workers. Conclusions This study suggests that obstructive lung abnormalities and small airway lung damage are associated with ECH exposure. The study also suggests that exposure to very low concentrations (