Isocyanates and health - a review

Isocyanates are chemical compounds used increasingly frequently in industry for the production of a wide range of goods. They can produce severe asthmatic responses in the sensitive. Health hazards, diagnosis, first-aid measures, prevention and legislation are discussed. Patients presenting with apparently work-related asthma should be questioned about exposure to these substances, and workers should be informed of the dangers of such exposure. Legislation should be passed setting limits for exposure to isocyanates and ensuring compensation for those workers whose health is affected by exposure to these compounds.