Document J3OOBnDj04By4qQd20L31r4ZB
May 19, 1969
Dr. A. Ooldberg
Research Laboratory PPO Industries Creighton, Pennsylvania 15030
Dear Dr. Goldberg;
Confirming our conversation Friday, I have included two publications which relate to the toxicity and safe usage of two of our Aroclors.
You will recall that I pointed out that the book, "Dangerous
Properties of Industrial Materials" acknowledges these publications
only in that it does mention the threshold limit values or `fTLV'a".
The discussion of "toxicity" is factual to the extent that
-
there can be skin effects and a systemic effect evidenced in
,
the liver. I am not aware of any recent publication which
indicates that the toxic action could be increased if there
is exposure to carbon tetrachloride at the same time. I think,
however, that this is probably the case but that in industry
today one would not find exposures to the two materials because
of the very limited use of carbon tetrachloride.
As Dr. Treon's publication (enclosed) Indicates the toxicity
of the
chlorinated biphenyl is greater than for the 42JI
chlorinated material. I don't know, however, of any data which
show that the more highly chlorinated biphenyls--l.e. 60 or
6Qft-- are more or less toxic. On the basis of acute toxicity
studies It appears that toxicity does Increase with chlorination
from 2l chlorine to the 48 and 54 chlorination with subsequent
decrease In toxicity as chlorination continues.
,
I do not know any basis for the statement that oxides of chlorinated diphenyls are more toxic.
In connection with the skin lesions and the systemic effects we at Monsanto know of only three Instances in the last 30 years
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Dr. A. Goldberg
-2- May 19, 1969
where Industrial usage of the chlorinated biphenyls have resulted in skin effects. We know of no instances of serious systemic injury. -
In the cases where chloracne has developed there has been excessive prolonged and repeated skin contact or the materials were used at elevated temperatures without any exhaust ventilation to remove the vapors released under such circumstances.
In summary we believe that our chlorinated biphenyls are not ' seriously hazardous materials as long as one recognizes that prolonged and repeated skin contact and the inhalation of vapors should be avoided.
If I can be of any further assistance, please let me know.
Very truly yours.
EPWscJa Enclosure
bcc: Ken Wells
Elmer P. Wheeler Manager, Environment Health
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