Document Oq4nzBVMM9z5pB45a3zeBvmM
THE DOW CHEMICAL COMPANY H&ES, REG. COMP., 1803 BUILDING MIDLAND MI 48674-1803
VINYL CHLORIDE
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Comment Period Ends: February 18,1992
This report is printed on recycled paper.
R&S 037873
DRAFT TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE FOR
VINYL CHLORIDE
Prepared by: Clement International Corporation Under Contract No. 205-88-0608
Prepared for:
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Public Health Service
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
October 1991
`"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037874
DISCLAIMER
The use of company or product name(s) is for identification only and does not imply endorsement by the Auencv for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
"`DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037875
R&S 037876
111
FOREWORD
The Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986 (Public Law 99-499) extended and amended the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA or Superfund). This public law directed the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) to prepare toxicological profiles for hazardous substances which are most commonly found at facilities on the CERCLA National Priorities List and which pose the most significant potential threat to human health, as determined by ATSDR and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The lists of the 250 most significant hazardous substances were published in the Federal Register on April 17, 1987^ on October 20, 1988, on October 26, 1989, and on October 17, 1990.
Section 104(i)(3) of CERCLA as amended, directs the Administrator of ATSDR to prepare a toxicological profile for each substance on the lists. Each profile must include the following content:
(A) An examination, summary, and interpretation of available toxicological information and epidemiological evaluations on the hazardous substance in order to ascertain the levels of significant human exposure for the substance and the associated acute, subacute, and chronic health effects,
(B) A determination of whether adequate information on the health effects of each substance is available or in the process of development to determine levels of exposure which present a significant risk to human health of acute, subacute, and chronic health effects, and
(C) Where appropriate, an identification of toxicological testing needed to identify the types or levels of exposure that may present significant risk of adverse health effects in humans.
This toxicological profile is prepared in accordance with guidelines developed by ATSDR and EPA. The original guidelines were published in the Federal Register on April 17, 1987. Each profile will be revised and republished as necessary.
The ATSDR toxicological profile is intended to characterize succinctly the toxicological and adverse health effects information for the hazardous substance being described. Each profile identifies and reviews the key literature (that has been peer-reviewed) that describes a hazardous substance's toxicological properties. Other pertinent literature is also presented but described in less detail than the key studies. The profile is not intended to be an exhaustive document; however, more comprehensive sources of specialty information are referenced.
Each toxicological profile begins with a public health statement, which describes in nontechnical language a substance's relevant toxicological properties. Following the public health statement is information concerning levels of significant human exposure and, where known, significant health effects. The adequacy of information to determine a substance's health effects is described in a health effects summary. Data needs that are of significance to protection of public health will be identified by ATSDR, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) of the Public Health Service, and EPA. The focus of the profiles is on health and toxicological information; therefore, we have included this information in the beginning of the document
The principal audiences for the toxicological profiles are health professionals at the federal, state, and local levels, interested private sector organizations and groups, and members of the public. We plan to revise these documents in response to public comments and as additional data become available. Therefore, we encourage comments that will make the toxicological profile series of the greatest use.
IV
Foreword
Comments should be sent to: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Division of Toxicology Mail Stop E-29 Atlanta, Georgia 30333 This profile reflects our assessment of all relevant toxicological testing and information that has been
peer reviewed. It has been reviewed by scientists from ATSDR, the Centers for Disease Control, the NTP, and other federal agencies. It has also been reviewed by a panel of nongovernment peer reviewers and is being made available for public review. Final responsibility for the contents and views expressed in this toxicological profile resides with ATSDR.
Administrator Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry
R&S 037877
V
CONTENTS
FOREWORD........................................................................................................................................................ ni
LIST OF FIGURES............................................................................................................................................. ix
LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................................................................. xi
1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT............................................................................................................. 1.1 WHAT IS VINYL CHLORIDE?..................................................................................................... 1.2 WHAT HAPPENS TO VINYL CHLORIDE WHEN IT-ENTERS THE ENVIRONMENT? ............................................................................................................................. 1.3 HOW MIGHT I BE EXPOSED TO VINYL CHLORIDE? .................................................... 1.4 HOW CAN VINYL CHLORIDE ENTER AND LEAVE MY BODY?................................ 1.5 HOW CAN VINYL CHLORIDE AFFECT MY HEALTH? .................................................... 1.6 IS THERE A MEDICAL TEST TO DETERMINE WHETHER I HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO VINYL CHLORIDE?............................................................................... 1.7 WHAT RECOMMENDATIONS HAS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MADE TO PROTECT HUMAN HEALTH?................................................................................ 1.8 WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION? .......................................................................
1 1
2 2 3 3
5
5 6
2. HEALTH EFFECTS..................................................................................................................................... 7
2.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 7
2.2 DISCUSSION OF HEALTH EFFECTS BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE................................ 7
2.2.1 Inhalation Exposure..........................................................................................
... 8
2.2.1.1 Death ................................................................................................ 30 ... 8
2.2.1.2 Systemic Effects............................................................................... go ... 8
2.2.1.3 Immunological Effects.................................................................... W , . 26
2.2.1.4 Neurological Effects ....................................................................... O . 27
2.2.1.5 Developmental Effects..................................................................... " . . 28
2.2.1.6 Reproductive Effects....................................................................... 00 . . 30
2.2.1.7 Genotoxic Effects............................................................................ 00 . . 31
2.2.1.8 Cancer...............................................................................................
, . 33
2.2.2 Oral Exposure..................................................................................................
. . 36
2.2.2.1 Death ............................................................^.................................................... 36
2.2.22 Systemic Effects................................................................................................... 36
2223 Immunological Effects........................................................................................ 40
2.2.2.4 Neurological Effects .......................................................................................... 40
222.5 Developmental Effects....................................................................................... 40
222.6 Reproductive Effects.......................................................................................... 40
22.2.1 Genotoxic Effects............................................................................................... 40
22.23 Cancer................................................................................................................... 40
2.2.3 Dermal Exposure ............................................................................................................... 41
2.2.3.1 Death ................................................................................................................... 41
2.2.3.2 Systemic Effects.................................................................................................. 41
2233 Immunological Effects........................................................................................ 41
2.2.3.4 Neurological Effects .......................................................................................... 41
2.2.3.5 Developmental Effects....................................................................................... 41
2.2.3.0 Reproductive Effects.......................................................................................... 41
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
^, *
vi
2.2.3.7 Genoioxic Effects................................................................................................ 2.23.8 Cancer................................................................................................................... 2.3 TOXICOKINETICS ........................................................................................................................ 2.3.1 Absorption .......................................................................................................................... 2.3.1.1 Inhalation Exposure ........................................................................................... 2.3.1.2 Oral Exposure...................................................................................................... 2.3.1.3 Dermal Exposure................................................................................................ 2.3.2 Distribution.......................................................................................................................... 2.3.2.1 Inhalation Exposure .......................................................................................... 2.3.2.2 Oral Exposure.................................................................................................... 23.2.3 Dermal Exposure................................................... 2.3.3 Metabolism .......................................................................................................................... 2.3.3.1 inhalation Exposure ........................................................................................... 2.33.2 Oral Exposure.................................................................................................... 23.3.3 Dermal Exposure............................................................................................... 2.3.4 Excretion ............................................................................................................................. 23.4.1 Inhalation Exposure ......................................................................................... 23.4.2 Oral Exposure.................................................................................................... 23.4.3 Dermal Exposure............................................................................................... 23.4.4 Other Routes of Exposure............................................................................... 2.4 RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH....................................................................................... 23 BIOMARKERS OF EXPOSURE AND EFFECT..................................................................... 2.5.1 Biomarkers Used to Identify or Quantify Exposure toVinyl Chloride ...................... 2.5.2 Biomarkers Used to Characterize Effects Caused byVinyl Chloride ......................... 2.6 INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER CHEMICALS .................................................................... 2.7 POPULATIONS THAT ARE UNUSUALLY SUSCEPTIBLE.............................................. 2.8 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE ......................................................................................... 2.8.1 Existing Information on Health Effects of VinylChloride ........................................... 2.8.2 Identification of Data Needs............................................................................................ 2.8.3 On-going Studies ...............................................................................................................
4] 41 42 42 42 42 42 43 43 43 44 44 44 46 46 47 47 47 48 48 48 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 64 70
3. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION ............................................................................... 3.1 CHEMICAL IDENTITY ............................................................................................................... 3.2 PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES.........................................................................
73 73 73
4. PRODUCTION, IMPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL............................................................................ 4.1 PRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................ 4.2 IMPORT/EXPORT ........................................................................................................................ 4.3 USE .................................................................................................................................................. 4.4 DISPOSAL ........................................................................................................................................
77 77 77 77 80
5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE ......................................................................................... 5.1 OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................................... 5.2.1 Air ........................................................................................................................................ 5.2.2 Water..................................................................................................................................... 5.23 Soil ......................................................................................................................................... 5.3 ENVIRONMENTAL FATE ........................................................................................................... 5.3.1 Transport and Partitioning ................................................................................................
81 81 81 81 86 86 86
R&S 037879
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT**'
5.3.2 Transformation and Degradation .................................................... 5.3.2.1 Air ......................................................................................................................... 53.2.2 Water .................................................................................................................. 53.2.3 Soil........................................................................................................................
5.4 LEVELS MONITORED OR ESTIMATED IN THE ENVIRONMENT ........................... 5.4.1 Air ........................................................................................................................................ 5.4.2 Water..................................................................................................................................... 5.4.3 Soil ........................................................................................................................................ 5.4.4 Other Environmental Media ............................................................................................
5.5 GENERAL POPULATION AND OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE . !..............................
5.6 POPULATIONS WITH POTENTIALLY HIGH EXPOSURES ............................................ 5.7 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE .........................................................................................
5.7.1 Identification of Data Needs........................................................................................... 5.7.2 On-going Studies ................................................................................................................
87 87 87 88 88 SS 89 89 89 90
90 90 91 92
6. ANALYTICAL METHODS ..................................................................................................................... 6.1 BIOLOGICAL MATERIALS ....................................................................................................... 6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLES .................................................................................................. 6.3 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE .......................................................................................... 63.1 Identification of Data Needs............................................................................................ 63.2 On-going Studies ...............................................................................................................
93 93 96 101 101 102
7. REGULATIONS AND ADVISORIES .................................................................................................. 103
8. REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................................... Ill
9. GLOSSARY ................................................................................................................................................ 147
APPENDICES
A. USER'S GUIDE .....................................................................................................................................A-l
B. ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, AND SYMBOLS ....................................................................... B-l
C. PEER REVIEW........................................................................................................................................ C-l
R&S 037880
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&s 037881
LIST OF FIGURES
2-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Vinvl Chloride -Inhalation ............................................................. IS 2-2 Levels of Significant Exposure to Vinyl Chloride - Oral .................................................................. 39 2-3 Proposed Metabolic Pathway for Vinyl Chloride ................................................................................. 45 2-4 Existing Information on Health Effects of Vinvl Chloride .............................................................. 65 5-1 Frequency of NPL Sites with Vinyl Chloride Contamination ......................................................... 82
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
xi
LIST OF TABLES
2-1 Levels of Significant Exposure lo Vinyl Chloride - Inhalation ........................................................... 9 2-2 Levels of Significant Exposure to Vinyl Chloride - Oral ................................................................ 37 2-3 Genotoxieitv of Vinyl Chloride In Vivo .............................................................................................. 56 2-4 Genotoxieitv ol Vinyl Chloride In Vitro.............................................................................................. 57 2- 5 On-going Studies on Vinyl Chloride ................................................................................................... 71 3- 1 Chemical Identity of Vinyl Chloride ................................................................................................... 74 3- 2 Physical and Chemical Properties of Vinyl Chloride ...................................................................... 75 4- 1 Facilities That Manufacture or Process Vinyl Chloride ................................................................. 78 5- 1 Releases to the Environment trom Facilities That Manufacture or Process Vinyl Chloride ... 83 6- 1 Analytical Methods for Determining Vinyl Chloride in BiologicalMaterials................................. 94 6- 2 Analytical Methods lor Determining Vinyl Chloride in EnvironmentalSamples............................ 97 7- 1 Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Vinyl Chloride.............................................................. 104
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037882
1
1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT
This Statement was prepared to give you information about vinyl chloride and to emphasize the human health effects that may result from exposure to it. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified 1,300 sites on its National Priorities List (NPL). Vinyl chloride has been found in at least 245 of these sites. However, we do not know how many of the 1,300 NPL sites have been evaluated for vinyl chloride. As EPA evaluates more sites, the number of sites at which vinyl chloride is found may change. This information is important for you to know because vinyl chloride may cause harmful health effects and because these sites are potential or actual sources of human exposure to vinyl chloride.
When a chemical is released from a large area, such as an industrial plant, or from a container, such as a drum or bottle, it enters the environment as a chemical emission. This emission, which is also called a release, does not always lead to exposure. You can be exposed to a chemical only when you come into contact with the chemical. You may be exposed to it in the environment by breathing, eating, or drinking substances containing the chemical or from skin contact with it.
If you are exposed to a hazardous chemical such as vinyl chloride, several factors will determine whether harmful health effects will occur and what the type and severity of those health effects will be. These factors include the dose (how much), the duration (how long), the route or pathway by which you are exposed (breathing, eating, drinking, or skin contact), the other chemicals to which you are exposed, and your individual characteristics such as age, sex, nutritional status, family traits, life style, and state of health.
1.1 WHAT IS VINYL CHLORIDE?
Vinyl chloride, also known as chloroethene, chloroethylene, ethylene monochloride, or monochloroethylene, is a colorless vapor with a mild, sweet odor. It can exist in liquid form if it is kept under high pressure. Almost all vinyl chloride is man-made. Most of the vinyl chloride produced in the United States is used to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC is used to make a variety of plastic products including pipes, wire and cable coatings, and packaging materials. Other uses include furniture and automobile upholstery, wall coverings, housewares, and automotive parts. At one time, vinyl chloride also was used as a coolant, a propellant in spray cans, and in some cosmetics. It is no longer used for these purposes. Please refer to Chapter 3 for more information on the chemical and physical properties of vinyl chloride. For more information on the production and use of vinyl chloride, see Chapter 4.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
CO
coo
--4
00 00 CO
R&S 037884
2
1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT
.2 WHAT HAPPENS TO VINYL CHLORIDE WHEN IT ENTERS THE ENVIRONMENT?
Most of the vinyl chloride that enters the environment comes from plastics industries that release it into the air or into waste water. EPA limits the amount industries may release. Vinyl chloride also comes from tobacco smoke. Vinyl chloride is also a breakdown product of other man-made chemicals in the environment. Vinyl chloride has entered the environment at hazardous waste sites as a result of either improper disposal, leakage from storage containers, from spills, or from the breakdown of other chemicals.
Liquid vinyl chloride evaporates easily into the air. Vinyl chloride in water or soil also evaporates rapidly if it is near the surface. Vinyl chloride in the air breaks down in a few days. It does not form other harmful chemicals.
A limited amount of vinyl chloride can dissolve in water. It can enter groundwater and can stay in underground water for many years. It is unlikely that vinyl chloride will build up in plants or animals that you might eat. For more information on what happens to vinyl chloride in the environment, please see Chapters 4 and 5.
1.3 HOW MIGHT I BE EXPOSED TO VINYL CHLORIDE?
The most likely way that you may be exposed to vinyl chloride is by breathing it. Normally, vinyl chloride is not found in urban, suburban, or rural air. However, vinyl chloride has been found in the air near plastics industries, hazardous waste sites, and landfills. In general, the amount of vinyl chloride in the air near these places varies from 0 to 1 part per million parts (ppm) of air. Levels as high as 44 ppm have been found at some hazardous waste sites. Vinyl chloride is in tobacco smoke from cigarettes and cigars.
You may also be exposed to vinyl chloride by drinking water from contaminated wells. However, most drinking water supplies do not contain vinyl chloride. In 1982, vinyl chloride was found in less than 1% of the 945 groundwater supplies tested. The concentrations found in groundwater ranged from 0 to 0.4 ppm. At one time, flow of water through PVC pipes added very low amounts of vinyl chloride to water. For example, in one study of recently installed pipes, the drinking water had 0.001 ppm of vinyl chloride. No current information on the amount of vinyl chloride released from PVC pipes into water is available. In the past, vinyl chloride could get into food that was stored in materials that contained PVC. Now, the United States government regulates food packaging materials and essentially no vinyl chloride enters foods by contact with these products.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037885
3
1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT
About 80,000 people work with vinyl chloride at their jobs. This number includes workers who make vinyl chloride and PVC, and who use PVC to make other objects such as pipes. Please refer to Chapter 5 for more information on ways that people are exposed to vinyl chloride.
1.4 HOW CAN VINYL CHLORIDE ENTER AND LEAVE MY BODY?
Vinyl chloride does not enter your body by passing through your skin. However, it can easily enter your body when you breathe air or drink water containing it. This could occur near certain factories or hazardous waste sites. Most of the vinyl chloride that you breathe in or swallow enters your blood rapidly. The vinyl chloride in your blood travels throughout your body. When it reaches your liver, it is changed into several different substances. Most of these new substances travel in vour blood. Once they reach your kidneys, they leave your body in your urine. Most of the vinyl chloride is gone from vour body a day after you either breathe it in or swallow it. The liver, however, makes some new substances that do not leave your body as rapidly. A few of these substances are more harmful than vinyl chloride because they react with chemicals inside of your body and interfere with the way your body uses or responds to these chemicals. It takes more time for your body to get rid of these changed chemicals, but eventually your body will remove them as well. If you breathe in or swallow more vinyl chloride than your liver can chemically change, you will breathe out the excess vinyl chloride. Chapter 2 contains more information on how vinyl chloride enters and leaves your body.
1.5 HOW CAN VINYL CHLORIDE AFFECT MY HEALTH?
If you breathe high levels of vinyl chloride, you will feel dizzy or sleepy. These effects occur within 5 minutes at about 10,000 ppm of vinyl chloride. You can easily smell vinyl chloride at this concentration. If you breathe very high levels, you may pass out. You can rapidly recover from these effects if you breathe fresh air. Some people get a headache when they breathe fresh air immediately after breathing very high levels of vinyl chloride. People may die if they breathe extremely high levels of vinyl chloride. These levels are much higher than the levels that cause you to pass out. Studies in animals show that extremely high levels of vinyl chloride can damage the liver, lungs, and kidneys. These levels can also damage the heart and prevent blood clotting. The effects of drinking high levels of vinyl chloride are unknown. If you spill liquid vinyl chloride on your skin, it will numb the skin and cause redness and blisters.
Some people who have breathed vinyl chloride over several years have developed changes in the structure of their livers. People are more likely to develop these changes if they breathe high levels of vinyl chloride. Some people who have worked with vinyl chloride have developed nerve damage, and others have developed an immune reaction. The
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037886
4
1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT
lowest levels that cause liver changes, nerve damage, and the immune reaction in humans are not known. Some people who work at jobs that cause them to be exposed to very high levels of vinyl chloride have problems with the blood flow in their hands. Their fingers turn white and hurt when they go into the cold. It may take a long time to recover when they go into a warm place. In some of these people, changes have appeared on the skin of their hands and forearms. Also, the bones at the tips of their fingers have broken down. Studies suggest that some people may be more sensitive to these effects than others.
Some men who work with vinyl chloride have complained of a lack of sex drive. Results of studies in animals show that long-term exposure may damage the sperm and the testes. Some women who work with vinyl chloride have had irregular menstrual periods. Some have developed high blood pressure during pregnancy. Studies of women who live near vinyl chloride manufacturing plants could not prove that vinyl chloride causes birth defects. Studies in animals show that breathing vinyl chloride may harm the babies of pregnant animals. Animal studies also show that vinyl chloride may cause increased numbers of miscarriages early in pregnancy and decreased weight of the babies. It may also cause delayed skeletal development. The same very high levels of vinyl chloride that caused these effects on the babies also caused adverse effects in the pregnant animals.
Studies of workers who have breathed vinyl chloride over many years showed that it can cause cancer of the liver. Brain cancer, lung cancer, and some cancers of the blood also may be connected with breathing it daily for several years. Studies of long-term exposure in animals show that increases in cancer may occur at very low levels of vinyl chloride in the air. Studies show that animals fed low levels of vinyl chloride each day during their lifetime had an increased risk of getting cancer. These results suggest that breathing air or drinking water containing low levels of vinyl chloride may increase the risk of getting cancer. As a result of these studies, the Department of Health and Human Services has determined that vinyl chloride is a known carcinogen.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry has calculated Environmental Media Evaluation Guides (EMEGs) for vinyl chloride. EMEGs are derived from Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs) which are calculated from human or animal data for vinyl chloride. The MRLs are further described in Chapter 2 and in the footnotes to Tables 2-1 and 2-2. If a person is exposed to vinyl chloride at a level below the EMEG for the period listed below, we do not expect harmful health effects to occur. Because these levels are based only on information currently available, some uncertainty is always associated with them. Also, an EMEG does not imply anything about the presence, absence or level of risk for cancer because the methods for deriving EMEGs do not use any information about cancer. The EMEGs are provided as concentrations in order to
--DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
5 1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT
Air exposure
An air EMEG of 0.002 ppm for vinyl chloride was derived from animal data for exposures longer than 14 days but less than one year.
Drinking water exposure
Drinking water EMEGs represent the lower end of a range and are protective for both children and adults.
A drinking water EMEG of 0.0002 ppm for vinyl chloride was derived from animal data for exposures of one year or more.
Soil exposure
Soil EMEGs represent the lower end of a range and are protective for both children and adults. However, this range is not protective for children (pica) who show increased desire for eating non-food items (such as soil).
A soil EMEG of 1 ppm for vinyl chloride was derived from animal data for exposures of one year or more.
1.6 IS THERE A MEDICAL TEST TO DETERMINE WHETHER I HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO VINYL CHLORIDE?
The results of several tests can show if you have been exposed to vinyl chloride. None of these tests are normally available at your doctor's office. Vinyl chloride can b< measured in your breath, but the test must be done shortly after exposure. This test i not very helpful for measuring very low levels of the chemical. The amount of the majo breakdown product of vinyl chloride, thiodiglycolic acid, in the urine may give som information about exposure. This test must be done shortly after exposure and is not reliable indicator of the level of exposure. Also, exposure to other chemicals can produ( the same breakdown products in your urine. Vinyl chloride may bind to genetic materi in your body. The amount of this binding can be measured. This measurement will give information about whether you have been exposed to vinyl chloride. However, scientists do not know if these measurements can tell how much vinyl chloride you have been exposed to. For more information see Chapters 2 and 6.
1.7 WHAT RECOMMENDATIONS HAS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MADE TO PROTECT HUMAN HEALTH?
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037887
6
1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT
The federal government has developed regulatory standards and guidelines to protect individuals from the potential health effects of vinyl chloride in drinking water, food, and air. EPA requires that the amount of vinyl chloride in drinking water should not exceed 0.002 milligrams of vinyl chloride in a liter of water (mg/L) (0.002 ppm). For short-term exposures, EPA requires that drinking water levels should not exceed 2.6 mg/L (2.6 ppm) for 10 days. Adult consumption of drinking water over longer periods should not exceed 0.046 mg/L (0.046 ppm). Children's intake should be limited to less than 0.013 mg/L (0.013 ppm) over long periods.
To limit intake of vinyl chloride in food to levels considered to be safe, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the vinyl chloride content of various plastics. These include plastics that carry water and plastics that come into contact with food. Limits range from 5 to 50 ppm, depending on the nature of the plastic and its use.
EPA has named vinyl chloride as a hazardous part of solid waste. If quantities greater than 1 pound are released to the environment, the National Response Center of the federal government must be told immediately.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates levels of vinyl chloride in the workplace. The maximum allowable amount of vinyl chloride in workroom air during an 8-hour workday in a 40-hour workweek is 1 ppm. The maximum amount allowed in any 15-minute period is 5 ppm. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) classifies vinyl chloride as an occupational carcinogen. Workers exposed to any measurable amount of it must wear special breathing equipment. EPA has determined that factories must limit the amount of vinyl chloride released in air to 10 ppm. For more information, see Chapter 7.
1.8 WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?
If you have any more questions or concerns, please contact your community or state health or environmental quality department or:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Division of Toxicology 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29 Atlanta, Georgia 30333
This agency can also provide you with information on the location of the nearest occupational and environmental health clinic. These clinics specialize in the recognition, evaluation, and treatment of illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"*
R&S 037888
R&S 037889
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
2.1 INTRODUCTION
The primary purpose ol this chapter is lo provide public health ollicials. physicians, iwxicologit's. and Ohio interested individuals and groups with an overall perspective of the toxicology ol vinyl chloride and a depiction ol significant exposure levels associated with various adverse health elfect.s. It contains descriptions and evaluations of studies and presents levels of significant exposure for vinyl chloride based on toxicological studies and epidemiological investigations.
2.2 DISCUSSION OF HEALTH EFFECTS BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE
To help public health professionals address the needs of persons living or working near hazardous waste sites, the information in this section is organized first by route of exposure-inhalation, oral, and dermal--and then bv health effect--death, systemic, immunological, neurological, developmental, reproductive, genotoxie, and carcinogenic effects. These data are discussed in terms ol three exposure periods-actite (14 days or less), intermediate (15-304 days), and chronic (.305 days or more).
Levels of significant exposure for each route and duration aie presented in tables and illustrated in figures. The points in the figures showing no-observed-adverse-effect levels (NOAEL.x) or lowest-observed-adversceffect levels (LOAELs) reflect the actual doses (levels of exposure) used in the studies. LOAELs have been classified into "less serious" or "serious" effects. These distinctions are intended to help the users ol the document identify the levels of exposure at which adverse health ellects start to appear. They should also help to determine whether or not the effects vary with dose and/or duration, and place into perspective the possible significance of these effects to human health.
The significance of the exposure levels shown in the tables and figures may differ depending on the user's perspective. For example, physicians concerned with the interpretation of clinical findings in exposed persons may be interested in levels of exposure associated with "serious" effects. Public health officials and project managers concerned with appropriate actions to take at hazardous waste sites may want information on levels of exposure associated with more subtle effects in humans or animals (LC)AEL) or exposure levels below which no adverse effects (NOAEL) have been observed. Estimates of levels posing minimal risk to humans (Minimal Risk Levels, MRLs) may be of interest to health prolessionals and citizens alike.
Levels of exposure associated with the carcinogenic effects of vinyl chloride tire indicated in Figures 2-1 and 2-2. Because cancer effects could occur tit lower exposure levels, the figures also show a range for the upper bound of estimated excess risks, ranging from a risk of 1 in 10,000 lo 1 in 10,000.000 (10-* to It)"7), as developed by EPA.
Estimates of exposure levels posing minimal risk to humans (MRLs) have been made, where data were believed reliable, for the most sensitive noncanccr effect for each exposure duration. MRLs include adjustments to reflect human variability and extrapolation of data from laboratory animals to humans.
Although methods have been established to derive these levels (Barnes and Dourson 1988; EPA 1989a), uncertainties are associated with these techniques. Furthermore, ATSDR acknowledges additional uncertainties inherent in the application of the procedures to derive less than lifetime MRLs. As an example, acute inhalation MRLs may not be protective for health effects that are delayed in development or are acquired following repeated acute insults, such as hypersensitivity reactions, asthma, or chronic bronchitis. As these kinds of health effects data become available and methods to assess levels of significant human exposure improve, these MRLs will be revised.
* "DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037890
8
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
2.2.1 Inhalation Exposure
2.2.1.1 Death
A report by Danziger (1960) described the deaths of two vinyl chloride workers. In one case, a worker exposed to high concentrations of vinyl chloride vapor emitted from an open valve was found dead. In another case, a worker responsible for cleaning a polymerization tank was found dead in the tank. Autopsies performed on these men indicated that death was due to asphyxiation. Circumstances surrounding the deaths suggested that the deaths were due to breathing very high levels of vinyl chloride.
Brief exposures of experimental animals such as guinea pigs, mice, and rats to concentrations of vinvl chloride ranging from 100,000 to 400,000 ppm have been shown to be fatal (Lester et al. 1963; Mastromattco ct al. 1960; Patty et al. 1930). At these concentrations, deaths occurred within 30-60 minutes.
Decreased longevity was observed at much lower doses of vinyl chloride in intermediate- and chronic-duration studies (Adkins et al. 1986; Drew ct al. 19S3; Feron ct al. 1979a; Hong et al. 1981; Lee ct al. 1977a. 1978; Viola ct al. 1970). A treatment-related increase in mortality was observed in mice exposed to 500 ppm of vinyl chloride for 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 6 months (Adkins ct al. 1986). In mice and rats maintained for 12 months following a 6-month, 6-hour-pcr-day. 5-day-pcr-weck exposure regime, decreased longevity was observed at concentrations as low as 50 ppm (Hong et al. 1981). However, statistical analyses of the data were not available to verify the significance of the decrease. Substantial increases in mortality of mice and rats exposed to 250 ppm vinyl chloride for 12 months were observed by Lee et al. (1977a. 1978). In addition, small increases in mortality of mice and rats during the 12-month exposure period were observed at 50 ppm in these reports. However, statistical analyses indicating the significance of these increases were not presented.
The influence of the age of female animals at the time of exposure to vinyl chloride on survival was examined by Drew ct al. (19S3). In female hamsters exposed to 200 ppm, two strains of female mice exposed to 50 ppm, and female rats exposed to 100 ppm for 12 months, a higher death rate was observed when 2-month-old animals were exposed than when 8- or 14-monlh-old animals were exposed. Similar trends were observed when hamsters and mice were exposed to these concentrations for 6 months. These results do not necessarily indicate that young people are more susceptible to the lethal effects of vinyl chloride, since animals that were exposed later in life may have died of age-related causes prior to the expression of the lethal effects. This study was limited in that only one dose of vinyl chloride was tested in each species.
The highest NOAEL values for intermediate-duration studies and all reliable LOAEL values from acute- and intermediate-duration studies that examine the effects of vinyl chloride on death are recorded in Table 2-1 and plotted in Figure 2-1.
2.2.1.2 Systemic Effects
The highest NOAEL values and all reliable LOAEL values for each study with a systemic end point in each duration category are recorded in Table 2-1 and plotted in Figure 2-1.
Respiratory Effects, Limited information is available on the acute effects of inhalation of vinvl chloride bv humans. The autopsy findings from a man who died after being overcome by vinyl chloride vapor revealed the irritating nature of extremely high-level inhalation exposure. The lungs were found to be intensely hypcrcmic. and some desquamation of the alveolar epithelium had occurred (Danziger I960).
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBUC COMMENT'
Key to figure* Species
ACUTE EXPOSURE Death 1 Rat
2 Rat
3 Gn pig
A Gn pig
5 House
Systemic 6
Rat
7 Rat
8 Rat
9 Rat 10 Rat
TABLE 2-1. Levels of Significant Exposure to Vinyl Chloride - Inhalation
Exposure duration/ f requency
System
NOAEL (ppm)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious
(PPm)
Serious (ppm)
Reference
30 min
2 hr
30 min
up to 8 hr 30 min
300000 (5/5) 150000 300000 (1/5) 100000 200000 (2/5)
Hastromatteo et al. 1960
Lester et al. 1963
Hastromatteo et al. 1960
Patty et at. 1930
Hastromatteo et at. 1960
2 hr
Resp
100000 150000 (lung edema)
1-5 d 6hr/d 30 min
1, 5 d 6hr/d 1, 5 d 6hr/d
Hepatic
50000
Resp Hepatic Renal
Hepatic
100000 200000
100000 (lung congestion) 200000 (liver fatty
infiltration) 300000 (kidney
congestion)
50000
Hepatic
50000 100000 (liver vacuolization)
Lester et al. 1963 Reynolds et al. 1975b Hastromatteo et al. 1960
Reynolds et at. 1975 a Jaeger et al. 1974
l-68ze0 ssu
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Key to figure' Species
11 Gn pig
12 House
Neurological 13 Hunan 14 Rat 15 Rat 16 Rat 17 Rat 18 Gn pig 19 Gn pig 20 House
21 House
Z68Z.C0 SSU
TABLL _ . (uuminucd)
Exposure duration/ frequency
System
N0AEL (ppm)
LOAEL {effect}
Less serious (ppm)
Serious (ppm)
30 min 30 min
Resp Hemato
Hepatic
Resp Hepatic Renal
200000 200000
100000 (lung congestion) 300000 (absence of
clotting) 300000 (liver
degeneration)
200000 100000
100000 Clung hyperemia) 300000 {liver congestion) 200000 {kidney
degeneration)
Reference
Kastromatteo et at. 1960
Hastromatteo et al. 1960
5 min 2x/d 1 hr
1, 5 d 6hr/d 30 min
2 hr
30 min
up to 8 hr 30 min
1 hr
4000 8000 (dizziness)
50000
50000
100000 (anesthesia)
100000 (narcosis)
50000 (intoxication)
100000 (unconscious)
10000
25000 (narcosis)
100000 (narcosis)
5000 50000 (ataxia)
Lester et al. 1963
Hehir et al. 1981
Jaeger et al. 1974
Hastromatteo et al. 1960
Lester et al. 1963
Hastromatteo et al. 1960
Patty et al. 1930
Hastromatteo et al. 1960
Hehir et al. 1981
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Key to figure* Species
Developmental 22 Rat
23 Rabbit
24 House
Reproductive 25 House
Cancer 26
House
TABLE 2-1 (Continued)
Exposure duration/ frequency
System
NOAEL (ppm)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (ppm)
Serious (ppm)
10 d 7hr/d Gd6-15
13 d 7hr/d Gd6-18
10 d 7hr/d Gd6-15
2500 (ureter dilation)
500 (delayed ossification)
50
500 (resorptions)
5d 6hr/d
30000
1 hr
5000 (CEL lung)
INTERMEDIATE EXPOSURE Death 27 Mouse
28 House
6 mo
5d/wk
6hr/d
6 mo
5d/wk
6hr/d
200
500 50
Reference
John et al. 1981 John et al. 1977 John et al. 1977
Anderson et al. 1976
Hehir et al. 1981
Adkins et al. 1986 Kong et at. 1981
N
68ze0 ssu
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Key to figure' Species
Systemic 29
Rat
30 Rat 31 Rat 32 Rat 33 Rat
34 Rat
35 Rat
t>68Z0O SSH
Table 2-1 (Continued)
Exposure duration/ frequency
System
HOAEL (ppm)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (ppm)
Serious (ppm)
19 d 8hr/d
10 mo 5d/wk 5hr/d
6 mo 5d/wk 7Tir/d
10 wk 5d/wk Ihr/d 3 mo 6d/wk 6hr/d
6 mo 6d/wk 6hr/d
92 d 5d/wk 8hr/d
Hemato
Hepatic Renat
Hepatic
50000
50000 (decreased white blood cells)
50000 (histopathology)
50 (histopathology)
Hemato Hepatic
Renat
Resp
200 100 (increased liver weight)
200
500
Cardio Hemato Renal
Cardio Hemato Hepatic
Hemato Hepatic Renal
10 100 (increased heart weight)
100 3000 (increased spleen weight)
100 3000 (increased kidney weight)
10 (increased heart weight)
10 (increased spleen weight)
10" (increased liver weight)
20000
20000 (decreased white blood cel Is)
20000 (histopathology)
Reference
Lester et al. 1963
WisniewskaKnypl et al. 1900 Torketson et al. 1961
Hehir et al. 1901
Bi et al. 1905
ru
Bi et al. 1985
Lester et al. 1963
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Key to figure' Species
36 Rat
37 Rabbit 33 Gn pig 39 House 40 House 41 House 42 House 43 Dog
TABLE 2-1 (Continued)
Exposure duration/ frequency
System
HOAEL (ppm)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (ppm)
Serious (ppm)
10 nrvo 5d/wk 5hr/d
6 mo 5d/wk 7hr/d
6 mo 5d/wk 7hr/d
8 uk 5d/wk 6hr/d
5-6 mo 5d/wk 5hr/d
1 -6 mo 5d/uk 5hr/d
20 wk 5d/wk Ihr/d
6 mo 5d/wk 7hr/d
Hema t o
Husc/skel Hepatic
20000
Renat Other
50
Hepatic
100
50 (increased spleen weight)
50 (increased smooth endoplasmic reticulum)
500 (increased kidney weight)
50 (decreased body weight)
200 (necrosis)
Hepatic
200
Hemato
1000
Resp
2500 (hypertrophy)
Hepatic
2500 (histopathology)
Resp Hepatic
Hemato Hepatic Renal
50 50
200 200 200
568/eo S9U
Reference
Sokal et al . 1980
Torketson et al. 1961
Torketson et al. 1961
Sharma and Gehring 1979
Suzuki 1981, also Suzuki 1978
Schaffner 1979
Hehir et al. 1981
Torkelson et al. 1961
968ZE0 S'Sa
TABLE 2-1 (Continued)
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Key to figure' Species
Immunological 44 House
Reproductive 45 Rat
46 Rat
47 Rat
Cancer 48
Rat
49 Rat
50 House
51 House
Exposure duration/ frequency
System
NOAEL (ppm)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (ppm)
Serious (ppm)
8 wk 5d/wk 6hr/d
10 (increased irmiune response)
Reference
Sharma and Gehring 1979
10 mo 5d/wk 5hr/d
11 wk 5d/wk 6hr/d
3, 6 mo 6d/wk 6h r/d
500 (decreased spermatogenesis)
Sokal et al. 1980
250 (reduced male fertility)
Short et at. 1977
100 (decreased testes weight)
Bi et al. 1985
10 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
6 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
7-9 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
6 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
250 (CEL liver)
Hong et al. 1981
100 (CEL liver)
Drew ct al. 1983
50 (CEL liver)
Lee et al. 1978
50 (CEL peritoneum) Drew et al. 1983
HEALTH EFFECTS ORAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Key to figure' Species
52 House
53 House
54 House
55 House
56 Hamster
57 Hamster
CHRONIC EXPOSURE Systemic 53 Rat
TABLE 2-1 (Continued)
Exposure duration/ frequency
System
6 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
1,3,6 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
6 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
4 wk 5d/wk 6hr/d
30 wk 5d/wk 4hr/d
6 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
NOAEl (ppm)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (ppm)
Serious (ppm)
Reference
50 (CEL lung)
Adkins et at . 1986
50 (CEL mammary gland)
Hong et al. 1981
50 (CEL peritoneun) Drew et al. 1983
100 (CEL lung)
Suzuki 1982
500 (CEL liver) 200 (CEL liver)
Haltoni et al. 1981
Drew et al. 1983
12 mo 6d/wk 6hr/d
Hepatic Renat
3000 (increased l i ver weight)
10 100 (increased kidney weight)
Bi et al. 1985
0
868Zeo s$y
TABLE 2-1 (Continued)
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PU3LIC COMMENT'
Key to figure' Species
Exposure duration/
frequency
System
WOAEL (mg/nr1)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (mg/m1)
Serious (mg/m1)
Reference
Reproductive 59 Rat
12 mo 6d/wk 6hr/d
10
100 (testes necrosis) Si et at. 1905
Cancer
*
60 Rat
52 uk
* 5d/wk
Ahr/d
61 Rat
12, 18. 24 mo
5d/wk 6hr/d
62 Rat
12 mo 6d/wk 6hr/d
63 Rat
12 mo
5d/wk 6hr/d
64 Rat
52 wk 5d/wk 4 hr/d
65 House
12, 18 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
66 House
12 mo 5d/uk 6hr/d
5 (CEL mammary gland)
100 (CEL liver)
Haltont et al . 1981
Drew et al. 1983
N>
100 (CEL liver) 250 (CEL liver)
1 (CEL liver) 50 (CEL liver)
Bi et al. 1985
Lee et al. 1978
Haltoni et al. 1981 Drew et al. 1983
50 (CEL lung)
Lee et al. 1978
TABLE 2-1 (Continued)
Key to figure' Species
67 Mouse
68 Hamster
Exposure duration/ frequency
System
12, 18 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
12, 18, 24 mo 5d/wk 6hr/d
NOAEL (mg/m')
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (mg/m1)
Serious (mg/m1)
50 (CEL lung)
200 (CEL liver)
Reference Drew et al. 1983
Drew et al. 1983
`The number corresponds to entries in Figure 2-1.
'Used to derive an intermediate inhalation Minimal Risk Level <KRL) of 0.002 ppm; dose adjusted from intermittent to continuous dosing (10 ppm x 6 days/7 days x 6 hr/24 hr = 2 ppm), adjusted dose divided by an uncertainty factor of 1,000
ro
(10 for use of a LOAEL, 10 for extrapolation from animals to himans, and 10 for human variability). This intermediate inhalation URL is presented as a concentration of 0.002 ppm in air as an Environmental Media Evaluation Guide (EMEG) in
rXn
>
Section 1.5.
X
OO
2
Cardio = cardiovascular; CEL = Cancer Effect Level; d = day(s); Gd = gestation day(s); Gn pig = guinea pig; Hemato = hematological; hr = hour(s); LOAEL = lowest-observed-adverse-effect level; min = minute(s); mo = month(s); Musc/skel = musculoskeletal; NOAEL = no-observed-adverse-effect level; Resp = respiratory; wk = week(s); x = time(s)
mmT"oHUl
CO
3
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC
668/00 SSy
006ZC0 SSU
FIGURE 2-1. Levels of Significant Exposure to Vinyl Chloride - Inhalation
ACUTE ________________________________________________ {<14 Days)____________________________________________
Systemic
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
1.000.000
100,000
10.000
1.000
lr O Ig
Ollfl
3l2m
S"2.
06f O^o
On0
01?m
3*
OiiflOi^O6, O0r
O* jcf
3*
Oi?m O8'
01?m t&g
O* 0^0^
2Oml$t01& 321TM0I4'0,5'317'
#l9g
O19*An An O*1"1
022r
|2*m 3?1h
too ______ Key____________________________
r Flat
0 LOAEL lor serious el leas (animals)
O".
m Mouse
3 LOAEL lor less serious ettects (animals)
10
h Rabbit g Guinea pig
O NOAEL (animals)
CELCancer Effect Level (animals)
A LOAEL for less senous el Ieels (humans)
A NOAEL (humans)
1 ha number next to each poml corresponds to enlries in Table 2 1.
* Doses represent ihe lowest dose lesiod per study that produced a lumongnmc response and do not imply the existence of a threshold tor the cancer end point
?6m
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
(ppm}
1.000,000
FIGURE 2-1 (Continued)
Systemic
INTERMEDIATE (15-364 Days)
(f p
/ jr
10,000
3^* (>35r O3*
3 33*
340m
1,000
27m
032r
100 _ 26m O43TM
/Ofc03r
333' 039m
0<M QU333'11 (|36i
341" 043d 036J _
to
O33' 334'
3 341
(^34 r
o O3*
3331
33& 37h O^SoQ3''
WOS361rr 361
8:so.
/Si76ii
^50m ^Slm ^5 2m ^b3rn
3<4m O
0,1 001 0.001
Vi/
Kev
r Rat m Mouse h RabOit
LOAEL lor serious oil ads (animals)
3 LOAEL lor less serious el leas (animals)
O NOAEL (animals)
1 Minimal risk level (or 1 effects oiher than cancer
s Hams lor
CEL - Cancer Elleci level (animals)
0 0
The number noxl lo each porn! corresponds io enines in Table 2-1
* Doses represent Ihe lowest dose tested per study that produced a tumongemc
response and do not Imply the existence ot a ihreshotd lor the cancer end point
i-oezeo ssa
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
306Z0 S'Sb
FIGURE 2-1 (Continued)
CHRONIC __________________ 365 Days)______________
Syslemrc
(ppm)
1,000,000
100.000 10,000 1.000 100 10
1
0.1 0.01 0 001 0 0001 0 00001 0 000001
0.0000001
9% Os*
Ms 5m
66m
6?m
t66)lif
&?!
o 60>
10* 1
10 5 . Estimated Human
10 6 - Cancer Risk Levels
10-'**
Key
f Rat m Mouse s Hamster
LOAEL lor serious el I nets (animals) 9 LOAEL lor less serious etlects (animals) 0 NOAEL (animals) CEL * Cancer Elteci Level (animals)
The number next to eaeft point corresponds lo entries In Table 2 1.
Doses represent (be lowest dose tested per study that produced a tumorlgenic response and do not Imply the existence ol a threshold lor the cancer end point
ro
R&S 037903
21
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
Reports regarding respiratory effects in workers who are occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride are contradictory. Whereas a number of epidemiologic studies find no increased incidence of respiratory disease among vinyl chloride workers (Gamble el al. 1976: LaPlanche et al. 1987; Waxweiler el al. 1977), several other epidemiologic surveys rind case reports find evidence of pulmonary damage. The adverse respiratory effects reported in these studies include increased incidence of emphysema, decreased respiratory volume and vital capacity, respiratory insufficiency, decreased respiratory oxygen and carbon dioxide transfer, pulmonary fibrosis, and abnormal chest x-rays (Juhe et al. 1974; Lilis cl al. 1975, 1976; Llovd et al. 1984; Suciu et al. 1975; Walker 1976; Wong et al. 1986). Interpretation of many of these results is confounded by the inclusion of smokers among those exposed to vinyl chloride and the concurrent exposure of many vinyl chloride workers to PVC resin dust, which is known to cause respiratory lesions (Mastrangclo et al. 1979).
Brief inhalation of high concentrations of vinyl chloride caused respiratory inflammation in a variety of animals. A 30-minute exposure of guinea pigs, mice, and rats to 100,000 ppm of vinyl chloride produced slight hyperemia in mice and rats and marked pulmonary congestion in guinea pigs. Exposure to higher concentrations (200,000 ppm and 300,000 ppni) caused increased congestion, edema, and, al the highest concentrations, hemorrhages in all three species (MastromatLeo et al. 1960). Edema and congestion of the lungs of rats also were observed following a 2-hour exposure to 150,000 ppm (Lester et al. 1963).
Histopathologic examination of mice exposed to 2,500 ppm vinyl chloride for 5 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 5-6 months revealed proliferation and hypertrophy of bronchiolar epithelium, hyperplasia of alveolar epithelium, hypersecretion of mucin, increased endoplasmic reticulum and free ribosomes in Clara cells, and mobilization of alveolar macrophages (Suzuki 1978, 1980, 19S1). These changes were observed irrespective of the recovery period (2 or 37 days) indicating that they were not readily reversible. However, these studies were severely limited by the small number of animals tested and the absence of a statistical analysis.
Chronic exposure of rats to 5,000 ppm for 7 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 12 months produced hyperplasia of olfactory epithelium, increased cellularity of interalveolar septa of the lungs, and an increased incidence of pulmonary hemorrhages (Feron and Kroes 1979). Interstitial pneumonia and two incidences of hemorrhagic lungs were observed in rats exposed to 30,000 ppm of vinyl chloride for 7 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 12 months (Viola cl al. 1971). However, the statistical significance of the findings in the studies by Feron and Kroes (1979) and Viola et al. (1971) is unknown.
Cardiovascular Effects. Occupational exposure to vinyl chloride has been associated with the development of Raynaud's phenomenon, a condition in which the fingers blanch and experience numbness and discomfort upon exposure to the cold. This condition has been reported most frequently among workers who cleaned the reactor tanks; a job which reportedly exposed workers to very high levels of vinyl chloride. Although only a small percentage of vinyl chloride workers develop Raynaud's phenomenon (Juhe et al. 1974; LaPlanche cl al. 1987; Lilis et al. 1975; Marstcller et al. 1975; Suciu et al. 1963, 1975; Vcltman et al. 1975), the incidence is significantly higher than in unexposed personnel (LaPlanche et al. 1987). Investigation of the peripheral circulation of workers afflicted with Raynaud's phenomenon has revealed thickening of the walls of the digital arteries (Harris and Adams 1967; Juhe et al. 1974); narrowing of the arterial lumen, arterial occlusions, tortuosity, and hypervascularity (Juhe et al. 1974; Preston et al. 1976; Vellman et al. 1975; Walker 1976); inflammatory infiltration of the arterioles (Magnavita et al. 1986); deposition of immune products along the vascular endothelium (Ward 1976); vasomotor impairment (Suciu et al. 1963); and impaired capillary microcirculation (Magnavita et al. 1986; Marioq et al. 1976). Three reports indicate that upon removal from exposure, Raynaud's phenomenon gradually disappears (Freudiger et al. 1988; Suciu et al. 1963, 1975). In
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037904
22
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
one of these reports, improvement was observed within 4 months after the cessation of exposure (Freudigcr et al. 1988).
Splenomegaly with evidence of porta) hypertension (dilated peritoneal veins and esophageal varices) has been reported by investigators studying the effects of vinyl chloride exposure (Juhe el al. 1974; Lee and Harry 1974; Marsteller el al. 1975). In addition, hypertension among vinyl chloride workers (Suciu el al. 1975; Waxweilcr et al. 1977) and significantly increased mortality due to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease (Bryen et al. 197G) have been reported.
Investigators studying the anesthetic properties of vinyl chloride in dogs have observed that doses producing anesthesia (100,000 ppm, Osier el al. 1946; 150,000-900,000 ppm, Carr et al. 1949) also caused cardiac arrhythmias. Arrhythmias were characterized by intermittent tachycardia, extraventricular systoles, vagal beats, ventricular fibrillation, and atrioventricular block. However, the statistical significance of these effects was not reported.
Chronic exposure of rats to 5,000 ppm vinyl chloride 7 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 1 year resulted in increases in areas of myodegeneration in the heart and thickening of the walls of arteries (Feron and Kroes 1979). However, the statistical significance of this effect was not reported. Exposure of rats to 30,000 ppm of vinyl chloride for 4 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 1 year also produced thickening of the walls of small arterial vessels. The thickening was characterized by a proliferation of the endothelium. In some vessels, the thickening was severe enough to cause blockage of the lumen (Viola 1970). A study by Bi et al. (1985) demonstrated an increase in the relative heart weight at concentrations of vinyl chloride as low as 10 ppm when administered to male rats for 6 hours per day, 6 days per week, for 6 months.
Gastrointestinal Effects. Approximately 32% of the vinyl chloride workers examined by Lilis et al. (1975) reported a history of "gastritis, ulcers (gastric and duodenal) and upper gastrointestinal bleeding." Because these subjects were not compared to workers who had not been exposed to vinyl chloride, the significance of these findings is unknown. Two studies reported that workers intoxicated by vinyl chloride experienced anorexia (Suciu et al. 1963, 1975). Other symptoms reported by vinyl chloride workers included nausea, abdominal distension, and heartburn.
No studies were located regarding gastrointestinal effects in animals following inhalation exposure to vinyl chloride.
Hematological Effects. Blood tests performed at autopsy from two workers whose deaths were believed to be due to exposure to extremely high levels of vinyl chloride, revealed that the blood did not clot (Danziger 1960). Slight-lo-severe thrombocytopenia in workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride was reported in several studies (Juhe et al. 1974; Marsteller et al. 1975; Micu ct al. 1985; Veltman et al. 1975), but Lilis et al. (1975) found no increased incidence of thrombocytopenia in vinyl chloride workers. One study showed no damage to the bone marrow hematopoietic systems (Juhe ct al. 1974). Splenomegaly was reported in a number of these studies (Marsteller et al. 1975; Popper and Thomas 1975; Suciu et al. 1963; Veltman ct al. 1975), but Veltman cl al. (1975) and Juhe ct al. (1974) could find no correlation between the incidence of splenomegaly and thrombocytopenia. Increased levels of a number of plasma proteins (q1- and 02globulin, ct2*macroglobulin, and ceruloplasmin) were reported in studies examining the effects of occupational exposure to vinyl chloride (Harris and Adams 1967; Suciu ct al. 1975; Wagnerova et al. 1986. 1988).
A brief (30-minute) exposure of guinea pigs to 300,000 ppm vinyl chloride resulted in a failure of the blood to clot in the animals that died during the exposure (Mastromattco ct al. 1960). Exposure of dogs and rats
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
*
2, HEALTH EFFECTS
lo 200 ppm. 7 hours per day. 5 days per week, for 6 months had no effect on hematologic values (Torkelson el al. 1961). Also, an 8-week exposure of mice to 1,(XX) ppm for 0 hours per day, 5 days per week had no effect on erythrocyte or leukocyte counts (Sharma and Gehring 1979). Exposure ol rats to either 50,000 ppm for 8 hours per day, for 19 consecutive days or 20.000 ppm for 8 hours per day. 5 days per week, for 92 days resulted in a decrease in white cells (Lester et al. 1963). An increase in the relative spleen weight was observed in rats exposed to 50 ppm for 5 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 10 months (Sokal ct al. 1980). Increased relative spleen weight was also reported by Bi et al. (1985) when rats were exposed to 10 ppm for 6 hours per day, 6 days per week, for 6 months. Exposure of rats to 5,000 ppm vinyl chloride for 7 hours per day. 5 days per week, for 1 year caused slightly increased hematopoiesis in the spleen; slightly decreased hemoglobin content, packed cell volume, and erythrocytes; and degreased clotting time (Feron and Kroes 1979; Feron et al. 1979a). The statistical significance of these results was not provided.
Musculoskeletal Effects. Acroosteolysis, or resorption of the terminal phalanges of the finger, was observed in a small percentage of workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride (Dinman et al. 1971; Juhe et al. 1974; Lilis et al. 1975; Marsteller et al. 1975; Sakabe 1975; Veltman et al. 1975; Wilson et al. 1967). As with Raynaud's phenomenon, acroosteolysis was reported predominantly among polymerization tank cleaners. Bone lesions were most often confined to the terminal phalanges of the fingers, but in a few cases the bones of the toes, sacroiliac joint, arms, legs, and mandible were also involved (Harris and Adams 1967; Juhe et al. 1974; Preston et al. 1976). Development of acroosteolysis was most often preceded by Raynaud's phenomenon (Dinman et al. 1971; Freudiger cl al. 1988; Harris and Adams 1967; Magnavita et al. 1986; Markowitz et al. 1972; Preston et al. 1976; Sakabe 1975; Veltman et al. 1975; Wilson et al. 1967). In two reports, bone resorption was observed to progress despite discontinuation of exposure (Markowitz et al. 1972; Preston et al. 1976). However, in two other reports, improvement was observed after exposure ceased (Veltman et al. 1975; Wilson et al. 1967). Joint pain was also reported by Lilis et al. (1975).
Although Sokal et al. (1980) found no alterations in the bones of rats exposed to 20,000 ppm for 5 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 10 months, Viola (1970) observed skeletal changes in the bones of the paws of rats exposed to 30,000 ppm for 4 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 12 months. The statistical significance of these effects was not reported.
Hepatic Effects. Throughout the early years of the use of vinyl chloride, workers experienced only a minimal degree of functional hepatic abnormalities. However, when it became apparent in the early 1970s that angiosarcoma of the liver was associated with long-term vinyl chloride exposure, an intensive effort by a number of investigators was initiated to characterize the hepatic effects of vinyl chloride. These studies revealed characteristic hepatic lesions produced by vinyl chloride exposure (Berk et al. 1975; Falk et al. 1974; Gedigke et al. 1975; Jones and Smith 1982; Lee and Harry 1974; Lilis et al. 1975; Liss et al. 1985; Marsteller et al. 1975; Popper and Thomas 1975; Suciu et al. 1975; Taniburro et al. 1984; Vihko et al. 1984; Waxweiler el al. 1977). The incidence and severity of the effects correlated well with the duration of exposure (Gedigke et al. 1975; Lilis et al. 1975; Waxweiler et al, 1977). A further description of hepatic angiosarcoma may be found in Section 2.2.1.8.
Routine noninvasive techniques revealed hepatomegaly in a limited number of workers (13-37%) (Lilis et al. 1975; Marsteller et al. 1975; Suciu ct al. 1963, 1975; Waxweiler et al. 1977). However, when peritoneoscopy was performed or biopsies were obtained from exposed workers, Marsteller et al. (1975) found a much higher prevalence of hepatic abnormalities. Whereas only 37% of the workers studied by Marsteller ct al. (1975) had been diagnosed with hepatomegaly, peritoneoscopy revealed a 50% incidence of granular changes in the liver surface and an 86% incidence of capsular fibrosis with increased numbers of capsular vessels. Histopathological examination of the biopsied tissue from these workers revealed an 80% incidence
'DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037905
24
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
of collagcnization of the sinusoidal walls, a 90% incidence of proliferation of cells lining the sinusoids, a 30% incidence of septal fibrosis, and degeneration of hepatocytes (incidence not specified). A number of other investigators observed similar changes in liver tissues obtained from workers exposed to vinyl chloride (Falk et al. 1974; Gedigke el al. 1975; Juhe et al. 1974; Popper and Thomas 1975; Tamburro et al. 1984). Based on these observations, a profile of vinyl chloride-induced liver damage was compiled which includes the following features; hypertrophy and hyperplasia of hepatocytes; activation and hyperplasia of sinusoidal lining cells; fibrosis of portal tracts, septa and intralobular perisinusoidal regions; sinusoidal dilation; and focal areas of hepatocellular degeneration. This pattern of changes was observed to be highly unusual and was similar to the hepatic changes produced by arsenic (Gedigke et al. 1975). In addition, the degenerative changes in hepatocytes appeared to be less severe when biopsy material was obtained from workers who had not been exposed to vinyl chloride recently. However, sinusoidal changes were not influenced by the length of time since the last exposure (Gedigke et al. 1975).
One possible reason that the hepatotoxic effects of vinyl chloride went undetected for many years was the lack of sensitivity of standard biochemical liver function tests to detect the liver injury produced bv vinyl chloride (Berk et al. 1975; Marstcller et al. 1975; Tamburro et al. 1984; Vihko et al. 1984). For example, the values obtained in several standard biochemical liver function tests (alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, gamma glutamvltranspeptidase) from workers with biopsy evidence of vinyl chloride-associated liver damage were not significantly higher than those from unexposed controls (Liss et al. 1985). Only scrum bile acids and/or indocyanine green clearance correlated with liver injury (Berk et al. 1975; Liss et al. 1985; Tamburro et al. 1984). Furthermore, investigators have shown that levels of chcnodeoxvcholic acid (a serum bile acid) in asymptomatic vinyl chloride workers were elevated when compared to the 95% interval of values from a healthy reference population (Vihko et al. 1984).
Brief exposure of animals to extremely high concentrations of vinyl chloride has been shown to cause hepatic damage. For example, acute exposure (30 minutes) of guinea pigs, mice, and rats to 300,000 ppm of vinyl chloride caused liver congestion or severe fatty degeneration (Mastromatteo et al. 1960). Exposure to 100.000 ppm for 4 hours caused centrilobular vacuolization and increased serum Q-kctoglutarate in rats (Jaeger et al. 1974). However, exposure of rats to 50,000 ppm for 4 or 6 hours produced no observable effects on the liver (Jedrvchowski et al. 1985; Reynolds et al. 1975a. 1975b). In contrast, a singleconcentration study in which pregnant rats were continuously exposed to 1,565 ppm for 7-9 days during either the first or second trimester of pregnancy resulted in an increase in the liver to body weight ratio (Ungvary et al. 1978). Interestingly, a single 1-hour exposure of mice to 500, 5.000, or 50,000 ppm of vinyl chloride, followed by an 18-month observation period, resulted in an increased incidence of hepatocellular hypertrophy in these animals at terminal sacrifice (Hehir el al. 1981). The hypertrophy was not dosedependent; thus, the significance of this effect is uncertain.
In studies with longer durations of exposure, lower concentrations of vinyl chloride have produced hepatic toxicity. Symptoms of hepatotoxicitv that have been observed in rats have included degeneration, swelling of hepatocytes with compression of sinusoids, dilation of the rough endoplasmic reticulum, proliferation of smooth endoplasmic reticulum, changes in metabolic enzyme activities, proliferation of reticulocytes, and increased liver to body weight ratio (Bi et al. 1985; Du et al. 1979; Lester et al. 1963; Sokal et al. 1980; Torkelson et al. 1961; Wisniewska-Knypl et al. 1980). For example, exposure of rats to 500 ppm for 7 hours per day. 5 days per week, for 4.5 months resulted in an increase in liver to body weight ratio and granular degeneration (Torkelson et al. 1961). Exposure of rats to 500 ppm for 5 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 10 months caused swelling of hepatocytes and proliferation of reticuloendothelial cells, increased liver weight, and cellular degeneration (Sokal et al. 1980). Also, exposure of rats to 50 ppm for 5 hours per day. 5 days per week, for 10 months produced fatty degeneration and proliferation of the smooth endoplasmic
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037906
2, HEALTH EFFECTS
reticulum (Wisnicwska-Knvpl et al. 19801. An increased liver to body weight ratio uax observed in rats exposed to concentrations of vinyl chloride as low as 10 ppm for 6 hours per day, 0 days per week, lor 6 months (Bi et al. 1985). Based on this value, an intermediate-duration MRL tit U.U02 ppm was calculated as described in the footnote in Table 2-1.
The relative NOAELs for a variety of species following a 0-month exposure to vinyl chloride indicated that mice and rats were the most sensitive (NOAEL = 50 ppm), rabbits were the next most sensitive (NOAEL - 100 ppm), and dogs and guinea pigs were the least sensitive (NOAEL > 200 ppm) (Torkelson et al. 1901).
Popper et al. (1981) compared histopathological findings from sections of liver from mice and rats exposed by Maltoni and LeFemine (1975) with the liver biopsy material obtained from vinyl chloride workers. Hyperplasia and hypertrophy of hepatocytes and/or sinusoidal cells, with areas of sinusoidal dilation, were observed in both humans and rodents. The major difference between the species was the greater degree of fibrosis, seen as reticulin deposition and collagen formation, in the livers of humans. Also, inflammatory cells were present in the livers of humans, but not in rodents.
Renal Effects. No studies were located regarding renal effects in humans after inhalation exposure to vinyl chloride.
Acute exposure of mice and rats to 300,000 ppm of vinyl chloride for 30 minutes resulted in kidney congestion. Also, the kidneys of one mouse out of five exposed to either 200,000 or 300,000 ppm of vinyl chloride for 30 minutes showed degenerative changes (Mastromattco et al. 1960). Exposure of rats to 50,000 ppm for 8 hours per day for 19 consecutive days or 20,000 ppm for 8 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 92 days caused no adverse effects on the kidneys (Lester et al. 1963). However, exposures of male rats to 3,000 ppm for 6 hours per day, 6 days per week, for 6 months caused the kidney to body weight ratio to increase (Bi et al. 1985). Also, 1 year of exposure to 5,000 ppm for 7 hours per day, 5 days per week caused increased kidney to body weight ratio and tubular nephrosis in rats. Increased blood urea nitrogen and urinary volume were also observed (Feron and Kroes 1979: Fcron el al. 1979a). However, the statistical significance of these findings was not provided in the study,
Dermal/Ocular Effects. Local burns on the conjunctiva and cornea were observed in a man who died after exposure to an unknown quantity of vinyl chloride vapor escaping from an open valve (Danziger 1960).
Occupational exposure to vinyl chloride was observed to cause scleroderma-like skin changes on the hands of a small percentage of exposed workers (Juhe el al. 1974; Lilis et al. 1975; Marstellcr et al. 1975; Suciu et al. 1963, 1975; Veltman et al. 1976; Walker 1976). The skin changes were characterized by a thickening of the skin, decreased elasticity, and slight edema and were almost exclusively observed in workers who also suffered from Raynaud's phenomenon (Freudiger et al. 1988; Juhe et al. 1974; Lilis et al. 1975; Markowitz et al. 1972; Preston et al. 1976; Suciu et al. 1975; Veltman et al. 1976; Walker 1976). Skin biopsies revealed increased collagen bundles in the subepidermal layer of the skin (Harris and Adams 1967; Juhe et al, 1974; Markowitz et al. 1972; Veltman et al. 1976).' Biochemical-analyses by Jayson et al. (1976) demonstrated that a high rate of collagen synthesis was taking place in the affected skin. Most often the skin changes were confined to the hands and wrists, but Jayson et al. (1976) reported scleroderma-like skin changes on the hands, arms, chest, and face of one afflicted worker.
Viola (1970) observed skin changes in rats exposed to 30,000 ppm for 12 months. The skin of the paws of the exposed rats showed areas of hyperkeratosis, thickening of the epidermis, edema, collagen dissociation,
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037907
26
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
and fragmentation of the elastic reticulum. Interpretation of these results is limited by the absence of a statistical analysis and insufficient information on the treatment of control animals.
2.2.1.3 Immunological Effects
A number of studies have examined the immunologic profile of workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride. A statistically significant increase in circulating immune complexes in workers exposed to vinyl chloride was observed when compared to levels in unexposed workers (Boddanikowa and Zawilska 1984). The increase in circulating immune complexes was greatest in women and in those with duties involving exposure to relatively high levels of vinyl chloride. Also, elevated immunoglobulins were found in workers exposed to vinyl chloride when compared to levels in unexposed controls (Wagnerova et al. 1986). However, no correlation between the levels of immunoglobulins and the duration of exposure was observed.
Studies of workers that have developed "vinyl chloride disease," a syndrome consisting of Raynaud's phenomenon, acroosteolysis, joint and muscle pain, enhanced collagen deposition, stiffness of the hands, and sclerodcrma-iike skin changes, indicate that this disease may have an immunologic basis. Sera obtained from patients with varying degrees of severity of symptoms of vinyl chloride disease demonstrate a close correlation between the disease severity and the extent of the immunologic abnormality (Grainger et al. 1980; LangauerLewowicka et al. 1976; Ward 1976). The most frequent immunologic findings in workers with vinyl chloride disease are an increase in circulating immune complexes or cryoglobulinemia. In workers with the most severe clinical signs, there also is an increased incidence of B-cell proliferation, hyperimmunoglobulinemia, and complement activation (Grainger et al. 1980; Langauer-Lewowicka et al. 1976; Ward 1976). Evidence of a structurally altered immunoglobulin G (IgG) has been obtained, and vinyl chloride (or a metabolite) has been proposed to bind to IgG (Grainger et al. 1980). Should such binding occur, the resulting complex may be the antigenic substance that triggers the immune reaction.
Based on the similarity of vinyl chloride disease and systemic sclerosis, which may be a genetically linked autoimmune disease, Black et al. (1983, 1986) examined the human lymphocyte antigen (HLA) phenotypes of patients with vinyl chloride disease. Many autoimmune diseases show statistically significant associations with certain HLA alleles. These authors found that when compared to unexposed controls or asymptomatic controls, workers with vinyl chloride disease had a significantly greater incidence of possessing the HLA-DR5 allele. Furthermore, among those with the disease, the severity of the symptoms was significantly related to the possession of the HLA-DR3 and B8 alleles. These authors concluded that susceptibility was increased in the presence of HLA-DR5 or a gene in linkage disequilibrium with it, and progression was favored by HLA-DR3 and B8.
The immunologic effects of vinyl chloride have been examined in mice (Sharma and Gehring 1979). Lymphocytes isolated from the spleens of mice exposed to concentrations as low as 10 ppm vinyl chloride for 4 weeks had increased spontaneous and lectin-stimulated transformation. This increase was not observed when lymphocytes from unexposed mice were cultured in the presence of vinyl chloride, indicating that a metabolite of vinyl chloride may be responsible for the increase.
The LOAEL value for immunological effects in mice exposed in an intermediate-duration study is recorded in Table 2-1 and plotted in Figure 2-1.
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037908
R&S 037909
27
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
2.2.1.4 Neurological Effects
Vinyl chloride was once considered for use as an inhalation anesthetic (ACGIH 19S6a). Investigators studvin the elfects of occupational vinyl chloride exposure frequently report central nervous system symptoms that are consistent with the anesthetic properties of vinyl chloride (Juhe et al. 1974; Langauer-Lewowicka el al. 1983; Lilis et al. 1973; Marstcller et al. 1975; Spirtas et al. 1975; Suciu et al. 1963, 1975; Veltman ct al. 1975; Walker 1976; Waxwciler et al. 1977). The most commonly reported central nervous system effects are ataxia or dizziness, drowsiness or fatigue, loss of consciousness, and/or headache. Other central nervous system cllects that have heen reported by vinyl chloride workers include euphoria and irritability (Suciu ct al. 1963, 1975), visual and/or hearing disturbances (Juhe ct al. 1974; Marsteller et al. 1975), nausea (Marsteller et al. 1975; Spirtas cl al. 1975), memory loss (Langauer-Lewowicka et al. 19S3; Suciu et al. 1963, 1975), and nervousness and sleep disturbances (Langauer-Lewowicka et al. 1983; Suciu et al. 1963). Central nervous system tests revealed pyramidal signs and cerebellar disturbances in some exposed subjects (LangauerLewowicka ct al. 1983); however, reliable estimates of exposure levels producing these effects were not available.
Exposure of volunteers to known levels of vinyl chloride has provided some indication of the levels of vinyl chloride associated with the effects noted above. Volunteers exposed to 25,000 ppm vinyl chloride for 3 minutes, in a singlc-dosc study, reported experiencing dizziness, disorientation, and burning sensations in the feet during exposure (Patty ct al. 1930). Recovery from these effects was rapid upon termination of exposure, but the subjects developed headaches. Exposure of volunteers to concentrations of vinyl chloride ranging from 4,000 to 20,000 ppm for 5 minutes was tested by Lester et al. (1963). No effects were noted at 4,000 ppm. However, at 8,000 ppm one of six subjects reported feeling dizzy. The incidence of dizziness increased with concentration. Nausea was experienced at higher concentrations, and recovery from all effects was rapid upon termination of exposure. Headaches developed following exposure to 20,000 ppm.
Indications of an exposure-related peripheral neuropathy have been observed in a number of the occupational studies. A slight peripheral neuropathy was diagnosed in 70% of the vinyl chloride workers examined in a study by Pcrcotini ct al. (1986). The peripheral neuropathy was manifested as denervation-related lasciculations and fibrillations and increased duration and amplitude of motor unit potentials (indicating collateral sprouting). Similar effects were observed by Magnavita ct al. (1986) in a case study of a vinyl chloride worker. Other peripheral nervous system symptoms have been reported by a number of investigators studying the effects of occupational exposure to vinyl chloride. The most frequent symptom reported was tingling (paresthesia) in the extremities (Juhe et al. 1974; Lilis et al. 1975; Sakabe 1975; Spirtas et al. 1975; Suciu et al. 1963, 1975; Veltman et al. 1975; Walker 1976). Additional peripheral nervous system symptoms include numbness in the fingers (Juhe et al. 1974; Lilis et al. 1975; Sakabe 1975), weakness (LangauerLewowicka et al. 1983; Suciu et al. 1963, 1975), depressed reflexes (Waxweilcr ct al. 1977), warmth in the extremities (Suciu et al. 1963, 1975), and pain in the fingers (Juhe et al. 1974; Sakabe 1975). It is unclear whether some of these symptoms are associated with tissue anoxia due to vascular insufficiency, or whether they represent direct toxic effects of vinyl chloride on peripheral nerves.
Acute exposure of a number of species to high levels of vinyl chloride has provided additional information on the characteristics of the central nervous system effects that are produced. Exposure of guinea pigs to 10,000 ppm for 8 hours (Patty ct al. 1930) was observed to be without effects. Increasing the concentration to 25,000 ppm resulted in ataxia, which developed into unconsciousness during the S-hour exposure period. As the concentration was increased, the development of unconsciousness was more rapid. At 100,000 ppm, Mastromaltco et al. (1960) observed the development of unconsciousness within 30 minutes. Mice experienced similar signs at approximately equivalent exposure levels. At 5,000 ppm, vinyl chloride was
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037910
28 2. HEALTH EFFECTS
>t
without effect during a 1-hour exposure period. Increasing the concentration to 50,000 ppm caused ataxia and twitching (Hchir ct al. 1981), and at 100,000 ppm for 30 minutes unconsciousness was produced, preceded by increased motor activity, incoordination, twitching, and tremors (Mastromalteo et al. 1960). Similar effects in rats were observed by Lester et al. (1963), Jaeger et al. (1974), and Mastromatteo et al. (1960). In contrast, in two reports using rats, exposure to 50,000 ppm for either 1 or 6 hours was without effect (Hehir ct al. 1981; Jaeger et al. 1974). In addition, tolerance developed to the intoxicating effects of exposure to 50,000 ppm vinyl chloride after five or six 8-hour exposures (Lester et al. 1963).
Chronic exposure of rats to high levels of vinyl chloride has produced damage to nervous tissue. Rats exposed to 30,000 ppm for 4 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 12 months in a single-concentration study were slightly soporific during exposures (Viola 1970; Viola et al. 1971). Following 10 months of exposure, the rats had decreased responses to external stimuli and disturbed equilibrium. Histopathological examination revealed diffuse degeneration of gray and white matter. Cerebellar degeneration in the Purkinje cell layer was pronounced. Also, peripheral nerve endings were surrounded and infiltrated with fibrous tissue (Viola 1970; Viola et al. 1971). Nonneoplastic lesions in the brain were not noted in rats exposed to 5,000 ppm for 7 hours per day. 5 days per week, for 12 months in a single-concentration study by Feron and Krocs (1979).
The highest NOAEL values and all reliable LOAEL values for neurological effects in each species from acute- or intermediate-duration studies are recorded in Table 2-1 and plotted in Figure 2-1.
2.2.1.5 Developmental Effects
Although evidence has been presented indicating that members of communities with nearby vinyl chloride polymerization facilities ha\c significantly greater incidences of some forms of developmental toxicity, these studies failed to demonstrate a statistically significant correlation between the developmental toxicity and either parental occupation or proximity to the facility (Edmonds ct al. 1978; Infante 1976; Infante et al. 1976a, 1976b; Roscnman et al. 198S; Theriault et al. 1983).
The pregnancy outcome of wives of workers employed at a vinyl chloride polymerization facility was compared to the pregnancy outcome of wives of a control group made up of unexposed rubber workers and PVC fabricators believed to be exposed to "very low" levels of vinyl chloride (Infante ct al. 1976a, 1976b; Waxweiler et al. 1977). Pregnancy outcomes were determined based on the responses given by fathers on a questionnaire. Infante ct al. (1976a, 1976b) and Waxweiler ct al. (1977) reported a significant excess of fetal loss in the group whose husbands had been exposed to vinyl chloride. The greatest difference occurred in wives of men under 30 years of age, where fetal loss was 5.3% for controls and 20.0% for exposed workers. However, this study hits been severely criticized based on the conduct of the study and method of statistical analysis used (Hatch et al. 1981; Stallones ct al. 1987). Furthermore, Hatch et al. (1981) and Stallones ct al. (1987) concluded that the study failed to demonstrate an association of parental exposure to vinyl chloride with increased fetal loss.
Additional work bv Infante (1976) and Infante et al. (1976b) examined the occurrence of congenital malformations among populations exposed to emissions from PVC polymerization facilities. A statistically significant increase in birth defects was observed in three cities in which polymerization facilities were located when compared to statewide and countywide averages. The greatest increases were noted in malformations of the central nervous svstem, upper alimentary tract, and genital organs, and in the incidence of club fool. However, this sludv has also been criticized based on the conduct and analyses used (Hatch ct al. 1981; Stallones ct al. 1987) These authors concluded that the study failed to demonstrate an association between
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037911
29
2 HEALTH EFFECTS
exposure lo emissions and the prevalence of birth delects. Furthermore, another study that examined the incidence ol malformations in one ol the cities studied by Infante (1976) concluded that, although the city had statistically increased incidences of congenital malformations, no correlation existed with parental proximity to the polymerization plant or with parental employment at the plant (Edmonds cl al. 1975). In fact, more parents of control inlants worked at the plant or lived closer to the plant than parents of infants with central nervous system malformations.
Additional studies have also examined the prevalence ot congenital malformations in populations exposed to emissions from polymerization facilities (Edmonds ct al. 1978; Rosenman ct al. 1988; TheriaulL et al. 1983). The incidence of central nervous system defects in a West Virginia county with a polymerization plant was compared to incidences in other regions in the United States with no known exposure to vinyl chloride (Edmonds ct al. 1978). Although the rate of central nervous system defects in the West Virginia county exceeded that in control areas, no correlation was noted between the increased central nervous system defect; and parental occupation or potential exposure based on proximity to the plant or prevailing wind patterns
A signilicantlv greater prevalence of birth defects was found in residents of a town with a polymcrizatioi facility than in three matched towns without potential for exposure to vinyl chloride (Theriault ct al. 1983) The most commonly reported defects included those of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, urogenital, and central nervous systems. The incidences were observed to fluctuate with seasonal changes in emissions. However, no correlations were found between the presence of defects and proximity of the residence lo the plant or parental occupation. Also, other industrial emissions could not be eliminated as potential sources of the increased incidence of congenital malformations observed.
No significant increases in birth defects were observed in a community with two polymerization facilities, but odds ratios for central nervous system defects were found to correlate with the amount of emissions from the individual facilities and with the distance of the residences of affected parents from the facilities (Rosenman ct al. 1988). However, this study was limited by the small sample size.
Pregnancy outcomes of mothers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride were compared to those of pregnant workers not exposed to vinyl chloride (Bao et al. 1988). The study authors concluded that exposure to vinyl chloride did not correlate with involuntary infertility, pregnancy outcome, or the incidence of congenital abnormalities.
A number of inhalation studies have examined the effects of vinyl chloride exposure on pregnancy outcome in animals. Results of these studies indicate that vinyl chloride produces developmental effects at concentrations that are also toxic to maternal animals. John et al. (1977, 1981) exposed rats and rabbits to 0, 500, or 2,500 ppm and mice to 0, 50. or 500 ppm throughout the period of organogenesis. Mice were most sensitive to the effects of vinyl chloride. At 500 ppm, maternal toxicity was evidenced by decreased food consumption, decreased body weight gain, and increased mortality. Fetal effects observed at 500 ppm included increased resorptions, decreased litter size and fetal weight, and delayed ossification. The only significant fetal effect observed at 50 ppm was an increase in crown-rump length. The biological significance of this effect is unknown. In rats, 500 ppm caused decreased maternal weight gain and fetal weight, increased crown-rump length, and vertebral lumbar spurs. Increasing the exposure level to 2,500 ppm was not associated with a dose-dependent increase in these effects. The only effects observed at 2,500 ppm were decreased maternal food consumption and, in fetuses, an increased incidence of dilated ureters. In rabbits exposed to 500 ppm, maternal animals had decreased food consumption, and fetal animals had delayed ossification. These effects were not observed in rabbits at 2,500 ppm. However, the number of animals that
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037912
30
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
were tested at 2.500 ppm was much lower than at 500 ppm (5 versus 20), thus no conclusions may be drawn as to the dose-response of these effects.
Exposure of rats to either 0 or 1.565 ppm of vinyl chloride during the first, second, or third trimester of pregnancy was examined (Ungvary el al. 1978). In maternal animals, an increased liver to body weight ratio was observed in those exposed during the first and second trimesters, but no histopathologic alterations were found. A significant increase in resorptions was observed in animals exposed during the first trimester of pregnancy. Two central nervous system malformations (microphthalmia and anophthalmia) were observed in exposed fetuses but not in controls, but the incidence of these malformations did not reach statistical significance. This study is limited in that only a single concentration of vinyl chloride was tested, precluding conclusions as to the dose-response of the effects observed.
The effects of exposure of rats to vinyl chloride throughout gestation were examined by Mirkova et al. (1978) and Sal'nikova and Kotsovskaya (1980). An unspecified number of pregnant rats were exposed to 0, 1.9, or 13.9 ppm for 4 hours per day. fetuses were examined lor abnormalities just prior to the end of gestation, and offspring were examined at 6 months posinalally (Sal'nikova and Kotsovskaya 1980). At 13.9 ppm, a decrease in maternal erythrocyte count and urinary hippuric acid was observed. At 1.9 and 13.9 ppm, fetuses had an increased incidence of hemorrhages and al 13.9 ppm increased edema. However, the affected organs were not specified. Rats examined al 6 months, following _in_utcro exposure to 1.9 ppm, were found to have decreased hemoglobin and leukocytes and decreased organ weights (males: liver, kidney, spleen; females: lung, liver). In addition to these effects, exposure to 13.9 ppm in utero resulted in an increased pentobarbital sleep time and a decreased ability of the rats to orient themselves.
Continuous exposure of an unspecified number of rats throughout gestation to 2.4 ppm of vinyl chloride resulted in decreased fetal weight and increased early post-implantation loss, hematomas, and hydrocephaly with intracerebral hematoma. Weanling rats had hcpaiotoxic effects including decreased bile enzyme activity, decreased bile secretion, decreased cholic acid content, and increased hexobarbital sleep time. No histological data on the livers of pups, or information regarding maternal health, or statistical analyses of the data were presented (Mirkova ct al. 1978). Also, both this study and the report by Sal'nikova and Kotsovskaya (1980) failed to provide information on the number of animals in each test group.
The highest NOAEL value and all reliable LOAEL values for developmental effects in rats and/or rabbits in acute-duration studies are recorded in Table 2-1 and plotted in Figure 2-1.
2.2.1.6 Reproductive Effects
A number of case reports of workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride suggest that sexual performance may be affected by vinyl chloride. However, these studies are limited by the lack of quantification of exposure levels and possible concomitant exposures to other chemicals. Sexual impotence was reported by 24% of the workers examined bv Suciu et al. (1975). Approximately 20% of the workers examined by Veltman et al. (1975) complained of potency troubles. A loss of libido in 35% and impotence and decreased androgen secretion in 8% of workers exposed, at least once, to very high levels of vinyl chloride were also reported by Walker (1976). Also, in a vinyl chloride worker who died of angiosarcoma of the liver, decreased testicular size was observed (Lee and Harry 1974). However, it is unclear whether this effect was a direct effect of the vinyl chloride exposure or due to wasting secondary to the angiosarcoma.
The sexual function and hormonal levels in 198 males employed in the PVC and acrylic glass industries were examined by Makarov (1984). The report tound a significant decrease in sexual function in males exposed
-"DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT-*-
31
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
to vinyl chloride. However, concomitant exposure to methylmethacrylate cannot be ruled out in this study. Testosterone levels were also substantially decreased. However, the statistical significance of this finding was not reported.
The sexual function, organs, and hormonal levels of 402 females employed in the PVC and acrylic glass industries were also examined bv Makarov cl al. (1984). When compared with controls, there was an exposure-related decrease in sexual function in females between 41 and 50 years of age and in those who had been exposed to vinyl chloride for 21 or more years. No changes in the incidence of miscarriages or abortions were correlated with exposure. An increase in menstrual activity followed by a hypomenstrual syndrome was reported to occur, but supporting data were not presented. In a study by Bao et al. (1988), increased blood pressure and edema during pregnancy (preeclampsia) and decreased hemoglobin levels were found in female workers exposed to vinyl chloride when compared to unexposed workers.
Although no studies were located that documented the effects of vinyl chloride on reproductive performance when both parental animals were exposed, two dominant lethal studies examined the reproductive performance of exposed males. A brief exposure (5 days, 6 hours per day) of mice to concentrations of vinyl chloride as high as 30,000 ppm had no effect on male fertility or pre- or post-implantation loss (Anderson et al. 1976). In contrast, exposure of male rats to concentrations as low as 250 ppm for 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 11 weeks caused a decrease in the ratio of pregnant to mated females, indicating a decrease in male fertility (Short et al. 1977). These results are supported by two studies using rats in which adverse effects of vinyl chloride on the testes were observed (Bi et al. 1985; Sokal et al. 1980). Exposure of rats to 100 ppm for 6 hours per day, 6 days per week, for 12 months caused a significant increase in the incidence of damage to the seminiferous tubules and depletion of spermatocytes (Bi et al. 1985). At the 6-month interim sacrifice, a significant decrease in testicular weight was also observed at 100 ppm. No effect on male reproductive organs was observed in this study at 10 ppm. A significant increase in damage to the spermatogenic epithelium and disorders of spermatogenesis were found with exposure to 500 ppm vinyl chloride for 5 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 10 months (Sokal et al. 1980). No significant decrease in testicular weight was found in rats exposed to 500 ppm for 7 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 4.5 months, or in dogs, rabbits, or guinea pigs exposed to 200 ppm for 7 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 6 months (Torkelson et al. 1960). However, the quality of this study is limited because of the smal1 number of animals tested. Exposures involved up to 10 rats or guinea pigs of each sex, 3 rabbits of eacl sex, and 1 dog of each sex. No histopalhological data on the testes of these animals were presented.
The highest NOAEL values and all reliable LOAEL values for reproductive effects in each species an duration category are recorded in Table 2-1 and plotted in Figure 2-1.
2.2.1.7 Genotoxic Effects
Genotoxicity studies of vinyl chloride in humans include a large number of assays for chromosom aberrations in the cultured lymphocytes of occupationally exposed workers. Studies completed through tl mid-1980s generally found a statistically significant increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations, usually of the chromatid type (i.e., affecting only one of the two strands formed upon deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) replication) but also including some chromosomal-type defects such as inversions, rings, and translocations, which affect the entire chromosome. Increased sister chromatid exchanges have also been reported in occupationally exposed workers (Kucerova et al. 1979). One study examined 37 exposed workers and from 16 to 32 unexposed controls twice at intervals of from 2 to 2.5 years (Hansteen et al. 1978). Exposure levels during the time of first sampling were measured at 25 ppm, and there was a statistically significant increase in aberrations among the exposed workers. At the subsequent examination, exposure
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037913
32
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
levels had dropped to 1 ppm, and there were no statistical differences between exposed subjects and controls in the percentage of chromosomal aberrations, indicating that these clastogenic effects arc reversible. The stud}' authors suggested that 1 ppm constituted a NOAEL for genotoxic effects in humans.
The reversibility of these clastogenic effects is also suggested by Anderson et al. (1980) who reported that the increase of chromosome aberrations observed in workers exposed to 50 ppm returned to normal within 42 months when the cohort was sampled after exposure levels had been reduced to less than 5 ppm. A positive correlation between frequency of chromosomal aberrations and length of exposure and history of exposure to excursion levels (up to 2,000 ppm) was reported by Purchase et al. (1978), who examined a cohort of 57 vinyl chloride workers, 19 on-site controls, and 5 off-site controls. The exposures for this cohort ranged from 1,000 ppm between 1945 and 1955 and 5 ppm since 1975. These authors also reported an effect on chromosomal aberrations from smoking.
More recent papers on human subjects have focused on specific mechanisms involved in the clastogenic effects of vinyl chloride. A cohort of 67 workers exposed to approximately 5 ppm for an average of 15 years was reported to have a nonrandom distribution of chromatid and bichromatid breaks (Fucic et al. 1990). The most frequently affected areas of the genome were the terminal segments of the A, B, and C group chromosomes, suggesting that vinyl chloride or its metabolites interact more frequently with specific sites along the chromosome than would be expected. The study authors presented no correlation with particular fragile sites (gene sequences more prone to breakage than normal) or oncogene locations known to occur at these terminal segments. The implication is that the carcinogenicity of vinyl chloride could be at least partially explained by its nonrandom interaction with particular genes. These workers were also periodically exposed to 2,000 ppm for short periods. No specific information was given as to the frequency or duration of these events.
The effects of smoking on chromosomal aberrations in vinyl chloride-exposed workers was reexamined by Hrivnak et al. (1990) who found no effect of smoking in 43 workers exposed for an average of 11.2 years to levels of vinyl chloride ranging from 0.8 to 16 ppm. Most cytogenetic studies of the effects of smoking in humans have reported no effect on chromosomal aberrations, although the sister chromatid exchange frequency is usually elevated.
Animal studies of rats and mice exposed via inhalation to vinyl chloride have concentrated on identifying direct effects on the DNA. Increased alkylation of liver DNA and increased cell proliferation were reported by Laib et al. (1989). Both young and old rats were exposed to 600 ppm for 6 hours. The older male rats were sacrificed, and the young rats of both sexes and the adult females received a second 6-hour exposure 'ollowing a 15-hour interval. The 30 young rats were apparently more susceptible to the effects of vinyl chloride, but only 3 male adults and 2 female adults were used for comparison.
The role of chloroethylenc oxide, a metabolite of vinyl chloride, was described by Gwinner ct al. (1983). Rats exposed to 2.000 ppm vinyl chloride for 8 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 13 weeks demonstrated hepatocellular ATPase-deficienl foci and alkylation of liver DNA. Rats exposed to 2,2'-dichlorodiethyiether(bis(chloroethyl)ether) or to chloroethanol did not form these foci, which are considered to be prcneoplastic; these compounds do not metabolize to chloroethylene oxide, but rather to the aldehyde, suggesting that the aldehyde is not a mutagen in vivo.
The types of adducts of vinyl chloride formed from in vivo exposure may depend on the length of exposure, the sensitivity of the method used, and on the animal species. The vinyl chloride-derived nucleoside, _N-2,3cthenoguanosine. has been identified in the liver of vinyl chloride-exposed rats. This nucleoside, when
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037914
33
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
incorporated into DNA, has been shown to be an efficient mutagen that causes base-pair (i.c., purine to purine or pyrimidine to pyrimidine exchange) transitions during transcription (Singer et al. 1987). The identification of the etheno nucleosides has been reported to occur following inhalation exposure to vinyl chloride in Sprague-Dawlcy and BDV1 rats (Boll et al. 1986: Cirousscl et al. 1990: Eberle et al. 19S9). Immature rats exposed in vivo formed six times more of this nucleoside, which correlated with the age-related sensitivity to carcinogenesis in these animals (Ciroussel et al. 1990).
Effects of vinyl chloride on DNA are not restricted to the rat. Induction of single-strand breaks in liver DNA of mice after inhalation of vinyl chloride was reported by Walks ci al. (1988).
Vinyl chloride has not been shown to be positive for dominant lethal effects in rats exposed to up to 30,000 ppm for 6 hours per day, for 5 days (Anderson et al. 1976; Purchase et al. 1975; Short et al. 1977). The studies showed no evidence of pre- or post-implantation loss among the untreated females mated to exposed males. These results indicate that no germinal mutations were caused by these acute exposures. Table 2-5 lists the key in vivo studies of genotoxicity of vinyl chloride.
Other genotoxicity studies are discussed in Section 2,4.
2.2.1.8 Cancer
The most compelling evidence for the carcinogenic potential of vinyl chloride in humans comes from the cluster of reports of greater than expected incidences of angiosarcoma of the liver in workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride (Bryen et al. 1976; Creech and Johnson 1974; Fox and Collier 1977; Infante cl al. 1976; Jones et al. 1988; Monson et al. 1975; Pirastu et al. 1990; Rinsky et al. 1988; Teta et al. 1990; Waxwciler et al. 1976; Weber et al. 1981; Wong et al. 1986; Wu et al. 1989). Angiosarcoma of the liver is considered to be a very rare type of cancer (25-30 cases per year in the United States)(Heath et al. 1975). However, approximately 30 years after the introduction of vinyl chloride for use in the industrial production of PVC, it became apparent that workers exposed to vinyl chloride had an unusually high incidence of this type of tumor. Investigators identified an increased likelihood of developing hepatic angiosarcoma among those exposed to the highest levels of vinyl chloride and those exposed to vinyl chloride for the longest duration (Fox and Collier 1977; Infante et al. 1976; Jones et al. 1988; Rinsky et al. 1988; Weber et al. 1981; Wong et al. 1986; Wu et al. 1989). Based on this information, vinyl chloride is considered to be a carcinogen in humans (EPA 1980a; IARC 1979).
Histopathological examination of liver tissue from humans with hepatic angiosarcoma has led to the hypothesis that angiosarcoma develops as a result of hyperplastic changes in sinusoidal cells. Areas of transition to angiosarcoma contained greatly increased numbers of sinusoidal cells with greatly expanded sinusoidal spaces. Also, hepatic cells were replaced by fibrous tissue forming trabeculae. These areas also showed infiltration of angiosarcoma cells. In fully developed angiosarcoma, multiple areas with nodules of angiosarcoma cells were noted, the centers of which exhibited hemorrhagic necrosis (Popper et al. 1981).
Other cancers that have shown a statistically significant increase in mortality among vinyl chloride workers, in at least some studies, include cancer of the brain and central nervous system, the lung and respiratory tract, and the lymphatic/hematopoietic system. With regard to cancer of the brain and central nervous system, Cooper (1981), Waxweiler et al. (1976), and Wong et al. (1981) reported statistically significant increases; Monson et al. (1975) reported an increase in central nervous system cancer mortality in a proportional mortality study; Bryen et al, (1976) and Tabershaw and Gaffey (1974) reported increases that were not statistically significant; and Fox and Collier (177), Jones et al, (1988), Thomas et al. (1987), and
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&s 0379,5
R&S 037916
34
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
Wu et al. (1989) found no increase in cancer of ihc central nervous system among workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride.
A significant increase in cancer of the respiratory tract was reported by Belli et al. (1987), Infante et al. (1976), and Waxweiler et al. (1976), and also by Monson et al. (1975) in a proportional mortality study. However, studies by Cooper (1981), Fox and Collier (1977), Jones et al. (1988), Wong et al. (1986), and Wu et al. (1989) did not find a significant increase. Although smoking history was not considered in the studies reporting a statistically significant increase in respiratory cancer, Waxweiler et al. (1976) noted that the types of respiratory tract cancer most frequently recorded were large-cell undifferentiated carcinoma or adenocarcinoma, which are two lung cancer types not usually associated with smoking.
A statistically significant increase in cancers of the lymphalic/hematopoietic system was reported by Rinsky et al. (1988), Smutevich et al. (1988), and Weber et al. (1981). Monson et al. (1975) also reported an increase in their proportional mortality study. However, no statistically significant increase in these types of cancer was reported by Infante et al. (1976), Jones ct al. (1988), or Wong et al. (1986).
An increased incidence of malignant melanoma among vinyl chloride workers has been reported (Hcldass et al. 1977, 1984), but the significance of this finding has been disputed (Ten Berge 1977).
Few studies directly address the incidence of cancer in women occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride. However, one study found that women employed in the production of PVC had a significantly greater chance of developing leukemia or lymphomas (Smulevich ct al. 1988). No such increase was seen in occupationally exposed males. Furthermore, the subgroup of women who were exposed to the highest levels of vinvl chloride had increased incidences of stomach and lung cancer and the highest incidences of leukemia and lymphoma. No significant increase in any type of cancer was observed in exposed males in this report, irrespective of the level of exposure.
Studies in several species support the conclusion that vinyl chloride is carcinogenic. A large series of experiments was performed by Maltoni ct al. (1981) using rats (Sprague-Dawlcy and Wistar), mice, and hamsters. All animals were chamber exposed; controls were chamber exposed to air only. The test material was >99.9% pure. A complete gross and histopathological examination of every animal was performed. However, extremely limited histopathological data were presented and cancer incidences were presented onlv in summary tables. Also, survival of control animals was poor in some of the experiments, suggesting that animal care was inadequate or that unthrifty animals were used. Furthermore, statistical analyses, where present, appear to be based on a compilation of data from several individual studies. In one group of studies, Maltoni ct al. (1981) exposed Sprague-Dawlcy rats to vinyl chloride for 52 weeks at concentrations ranging from 1 to 30,000 ppm. Animals were examined at the time of their spontaneous death. Statistically significant increases were noted in the incidence of mammary gland carcinomas at concentrations as low as 5 ppm in females, Zymbal gland carcinomas at 10,000 ppm and above, nephroblastoma at concentrations as low as 100 ppm in males and 250 ppm in females, liver angiosarcoma at concentrations as low as 50 ppm in females and 200 ppm in males, neuroblastoma at 10,000 ppm in females, and forcslomach papillomas and acanthoma al 30,000 ppm. Other findings (though not statistically significant) that were considered important, based on historical data from their laboratory indicating the rarity of certain tumors, include angiosarcoma and Zymbal gland carcinoma at 10 and 25 ppm and nephroblastoma at 25 ppm. Maltoni ct al. (1981) also reported that decreasing the duration of exposure decreased the incidence of vinyl chloride-related tumors (nephroblastomas, liver angiosarcomas. Zymbal gland carcinomas, and, to some extent, neuroblastomas), but statistics were not presented to support this conclusion.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"'
R&S 037917
35
2 HEALTH EFFECTS
Some variation in the end organs that developed tumors was observed when dilt'erent species were exposed to vinyl chloride (Maltoni et al. 1981). Whereas angiosarcomas of the liver were reported to occur in rats, mice, and hamsters, mammary gland carcinomas were found only in rats and mice; Zymbal gland carcinomas, neuroblastomas, and nephroblastomas only in rats; and melanomas, acoustical duct epithelial tumors, lymphomas, and leukemias only in hamsters.
Other inhalation experiments support the carcinogenicity ol vinyl chloride. Rats and mice exposed to 0, 50, 250, or 1,000 ppm for 6 hours per day. 5 days per week, for 6 months (Hong et al. 19S1) or up to 12 months (Lee et al. 1977a, 1978) had a significantly increased incidence of hemangiosarcoma of the liver at >250 ppm. An increase in bronchioloalveolar adenoma of the lung and mammary gland tumors (adenocarcinomas, squamous and anaplastic cell carcinomas) were also observed in mice at >50 ppm after the 12-month exposure, although it is unclear whether the increases in these tumor types are statistically significant (Lee et al. 1977a, 1978). Male rats exposed to concentrations as low as 100 ppm for 6 hours per day, 6 days per week, for 12 months had significantly increased incidences of angiosarcoma of the liver when sacrificed at 18 months (Bi ct al. 1985). Rats exposed to 3% vinyl chloride (30,000 ppm) 4 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 12 months had an increased incidence of epidermoid carcinoma of the skin, adenocarcinoma of the lungs, and osteochondroma in the bones (Viola et al. 1971), and rats exposed to 0 or 5,000 ppm for 52 weeks had primary tumors in the brain, lung, Zymbal gland, and nasal cavity (Feron and Kroes 1979). However, these studies (Feron and Krocs 1979; Viola et al. 1971) arc limited by the absence of statistical analysis of the data. A concentration-dependent increase in tumor formation (alveologenic adenomas of the lung, angiosarcomas of the liver, and adenosquamous carcinoma of the mammary gland) was observed in mice exposed lo 0, 50, 200 or 2,500 ppm vinyl chloride (Keplinger et al. 1975). However, no statistics were presented to support these conclusions. Furthermore, an audit of data by the Manufacturing Chemists Association (MCA 19S0) indicated that mishandling of the tissues precluded making statements regarding the relationship of tumors other than angiosarcoma of the liver with vinyl chloride exposure.
In a preliminary study with a limited number of animals, alveogenic lung tumors developed in 26 of 27 mice exposed to 2,500 or 6,000 ppm for 5-6 months (Suzuki 1978). A concentration-related increase in the incidence of alveogenic tumors was observed in a study in which a greater number of mice were exposed to 0-600 ppm for 4 weeks and then observed for up to 41 weeks postexposurc (Suzuki 1983). An increase in bronchioloalveolar adenoma was observed in a lifespan study in mice that were exposed to 50 ppm for 100 1-hour exposures, 500 ppm for 11) 1-hour exposures, or 5,000 ppm for a single 1-hour exposure (Hehir et al. 1981). The statistical significance of these observations was not presented.
Some data suggest that exposure of animals early in their lives may increase the likelihood of developing tumors or affect the type of tumor that develops. When hamsters, mice, and rats were exposed to vinyl chloride for periods of 6-24 months starting at various times after weaning, the incidence of tumors such as hemangiosarcoma of the liver was greater when animals were exposed for 12 months immediately after weaning than if animals were held for 12 months and then exposed for the next 12 months (Drew et al. 1983). Also, when pregnant rats were exposed from gestation day 12 through 18, the incidence of mammary gland carcinomas, Zymbal gland carcinomas, nephroblastomas, and forestomach epithelial tumors was reported to be greater in transplacentally exposed animals than in maternal animals (Maltoni et al. 1981). No control group was used, however, and no statistics were presented to support the conclusions. Maltoni el al. (1981) also exposed pregnant rats starting on gestation day 12 and continued to expose both maternal animals and offspring for a total of 76 weeks. The incidence of hepatomas was reported to be much higher in offspring than in maternal animals. In contrast, the incidence of neuroblastomas was similar between offspring and
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"
R&S 037918
36
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
parents, and hepatic angiosarcomas had only a slightly higher incidence and slightly shorter latency in offspring than parents. However, no statistics were presented to support these conclusions.
In general, the available evidence from inhalation studies in animals supports the finding in humans: that vinyl chloride is a carcinogen by this route of exposure. The lowest doses tested that produced a lumorigenic response (Cancer Effect Level [CEL]) for each species and duration category are recorded in Table 2-1 and plotted in Figure 2-1.
2.2.2 Oral Exposure
2.2.2.1 Death
No studies were located regarding lethal effects in humans following oral exposure to vinyl chloride.
No studies were located regarding the acute lethal effects of vinyl chloride in animals. However, decreased longevity has been observed in rats as a result of chronic ingestion of vinyl chloride. Significant increases in mortality were observed by Feron et al. (1981) when Wistar rats were allowed to consume vinvl chloride doses as low as 5.6 mg/kg/dav in the diet for 4 hours per day over a 2-year period. Also, the effects of consumption of vinyl chloride during a lifespan study in Wistar rats lasting almost 3 years (140 weeks) was examined by Til et al. (1983). These authors found decreased survival at a vinyl chloride dosage of 1.7 mg/kg/day. In both of these studies, vinyl chloride was administered by incorporating PVC resin that was high in vinyl chloride content into the diet. Vaporization of vinyl chloride from the diets was limited by presenting feed containing the vinyl chloride to the rats for only a 4-hour period.
All reliable LOAEL values for death in rats following chronic exposure arc recorded in Table 2-2 and plotted in Figure 2-2.
2.2.2.2 Systemic Effects
The highest NOAEL values and all reliable LOAEL values for hematological, hepatic, and dcrmal/ocular effects in rats following chronic oral exposure arc recorded in Table 2-2 and plotted in Figure 2-2.
No studies were located regarding respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, or renal effects in humans or animals following oral exposure to vinyl chloride.
Hematological Effects. No studies were located regarding hematological effects in humans after oral exposure to vinyl chloride.
Exposure of rats to 17 mg/kg/day for 2 years caused hypercoagulability of the blood (Feron cl al. 1981).
Hepatic Effects. No studies were located regarding hepatic effects in humans after oral exposure to vinyl chloride.
Chronic exposure of rats to vinyl chloride in their feed caused an increase in the incidence of basophilic nuclei at 0.018 mg/kg/day for 149 weeks (Til et al. 1983) and resulted in areas of hepatocellular alteration at concentrations as low as 1.8 mg/kg/day in rats exposed for 2 years (Feron et al. 1981). In the study by Feron et al. (T9S1). areas of necrosis were observed in the liver of female rats exposed to 5.6 mg/kg/dav and male rats exposed to 17 mg/kg/day for 2 years.
"'DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
TABLE 2-2. Levels of Significant Exposure to Vinyl Chloride - Oral
Key to figure'*
Exposure duration/ Species Route frequency
HOAEL System (mg/kg/day)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (mg/kg/day)
Serious (mg/kg/day)
CHRONIC EXPOSURE Death 1 Rat
2 Rat
(F) 149 wk 4hr/d
(F) 2 yr 5d/wk 4hr/d
0.17 1.8
1.7 5.6
Systemic 3
Rat
4 Rat 5 Rat
(F) 149 wk 4hr/d
(F) 2 yr 5d/wk 4 hr/d
(GO) 2 yr tx/d
Hemato Hepatic
Hemato Hepatic
Derm/oc
1.7
0.018" (cellular alterations)
5.6 17 (hypercoagulation) 1.3 (cellular alteration)
30 (increased collagen)
5.6 (necrosi s)
Reference
Til et at. 1983 Feron et al. 1981
Til et at. 1983
Feron et al. 1981 Knight and Gibbons 1987
Cancer 6
Rat
7 Rat
(GO) 52 wk 5x/wk
(F) 2 yr 5d/wk 4hr/d
0.3 (CEL liver) 1.8 (CEL liver)
Haltoni et al. 1981
Feron et al. 1981
6J-6Z0O SSB
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
026/eo S$H
TABLE 2-2 (Continued)
key to figure'
Exposure duration/ Species Route frequency
NOAEL System (mg/kg/day)
LOAEL (effect)
Less serious (mg/kg/day)
Serious (mg/kg/day)
Reference
6 Rat (GO) 52 wk 5x/wk
9 Rat (F) 149 wk 4hr/d
16.65 (CEL liver) 1.7 (CEL liver)
Maltoni et nl . 1981
Til et al. 1983
'The number corresponds to entries in Figure 2-2. '`Used to derive a chronic oral Minimal Risk Level (URL) of 2x10' mg/kg/day; dose divided by an uncertainty factor of
1,000 (10 for use of a LOAEL; 10 for extrapolation from animals to humans; and 10 for human variability). This chronic oral MRL has been converted to concentrations of 2x10'* ppm in drinking water and 1 ppm in soil for presentation as Environmental Media Evaluation Guides (EMEGs) in Section 1.5.
CEL = cancer effect level; d = day(s); Derm/oc = dermal/ocular; (F) = feed; (GO) = oil gavage; Hemato = hematological; hr = hour(s); LOAEL = lowest-observed-adverse-effect level; NOAEL = no-observed-adverse-effect level; uk = week(s); x = time(s); yr = year(s)
ro
FIGURE 2-2. Levels of Significant Exposure to Vinyl Chloride - Oral
CHRONIC 365 Days)
Systemic
stf*
J? if*
* if
,cr
100
to *
34* O
3* *
#ifO* Ok
o
?
0.1 - Ol-
&
*T1
O00 T3
001
C
CnO
O
o t 10-*-
o
2 2m
-
E i
105" Estimated
W Human
5
0.00001 -
Cancer
106- RisK Levels
0 000001 "
10'-
0.0000001 .
Key
Fla[ 0 LOAEL lor serious ellects {animals) 9 LOAEL tor less serious eHecis (animals] O NOAEL {animats)
Minimal risk level lor effects other then cancer
+ CEL Cancer Eflecl Level (animals)
s^s
The number next lo each pant corresponds io entries in Table 2 2
Doses represent the lowest dose lasted per study that produced a lumongonic response and do not imply me existence of a threshold for ihe cancer end pomt.
I-26Z0O SSd
:r
Sr-y~t!
rn o
R&S 037922
40 2. HEALTH EFFECTS
Dermal/Ocular Effects. No studies were located regarding dermal/ocular effects in humans after oral exposure to vinyl chloride.
Daily administration of 30 mg/kg of vinyl chloride to rats by gavage for 2 years caused increased thickness, moisture content, and collagen content of the skin. Newly synthesized intcrmolecular and intramolecular collagen crosslinks were also significantly increased (Knight and Gibbons 1987).
No studies were located regarding the following health effects in humans and/or animals after oral exposure to vinyl chloride:
2.2.2.3 2.2.2.4 2.2.2.5 2.2.2.6 2.2.2.7
Immunological Effects Neurological Effects Developmental Effects Reproductive Effects Genotoxic Effects
Genotoxicity studies arc discussed in Section 2.4.
2.2.2.8 Cancer
No studies were located regarding cancer in humans following oral exposure to vinyl chloride.
Four studies were located that examined the carcinogenic potential of vinyl chloride in animals when administered by the oral route. In two of these studies, vinyl chloride was added to the diet by incorporating PVC powder containing a high level of the monomer (Feron et al. 1981; Til ct al. 1983). To limit volaliliz.ation of vinyl chloride from the diet, rats were allowed access to the diet for only 4 hours per day. The actual intake of vinyl chloride in these reports was calculated by taking into consideration both the food consumption and the rale of vinyl chloride evaporation. These studies indicated that higher doses of vinyl chloride produced predominantly angiosarcomas, whereas lower dosages produced predominantly hepatocellular carcinomas. Statistically significant increases in hepatic angiosarcoma of the liver were observed in the 2-year study by Feron el al. (19S1) at 5.6 mg/kg/dav in males and 17 mg/kg/day in females. In contrast, statistically significant increases in neoplastic nodules of the liver were observed at concentrations as low as 1.8 mg/kg/day in females and 5.6 mg/kg/dav in males in the same study (Feron et al. 1981). Also, in the 149-week study by Til et al. (1983), statistically significant increases in hepatocellular carcinoma were observed in males at 1.7 mg/kg/day and hepatic neoplastic nodules were observed in females at 1.7 mg/kg/day. An increased incidence of Zymbal gland tumors was also observed in the study by Feron et al. (1981). Although the increase was not statistically significant, the tumors were considered to be treatment-related based on the historical rarity of this type of tumor.
Two studies were located in which vinyl chloride was administered to Sprague-Dawlev rats by gavage for 52 weeks. In one of these studies, a statistically significant increase in the incidence of hepatic angiosarcomas was observed at doses as low as 16.65 mg/kg/day in females and 50 mg/kg/day in males. Zymbal gland tumors at 16.65 and 50 mg/kg/day, even though not statistically significant, were considered to be treatment related because of the rarity of this type of tumor (Maltoni cl al. 1981). Lower doses of vinyl chloride were also tested in a similar study in which hepatic angiosarcomas were observed al doses as low as 0.3 mg/kg/day and Zymbal gland tumors at 1 mg/kg/day. Although neither of these findings reached statistical significance, the tumors were considered to be treatment related because of the historically rare observation of these tumor types in the colony (Maltoni et al. 1981).
"'DRAFT FOR PU3LIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037923
43
2 HEALTH EFFECTS
Animal data suggest that dermal absorption of vinyl chloride vapor is not likely to be significant. Dermal absorption in rhesus monkeys was estimated to be 0.031% and 0.023% of the total available vinyl chloride at 800 and 7,000 ppm, respectively (Hefner et al. 1975a). The investigators concluded that, after short-term exposure to high concentrations, dermal absorption was far less significant than inhalation absorption.
2.3.2 Distribution
2.3.2.1 Inhalation Exposure
No studies were located regarding tissue distribution in humans after inhalation exposure to vinyl chloride
Data from rat studies suggest that the distribution of inhaled vinyl chloride is rapid and widespread, but storage of vinyl chloride in the body is limited by rapid metabolism and excretion. In rats exposed tc l4C-vinyl chloride and pretreated with 6-nitro-l,2,3-ben'/.othiadiazole to block metabolism of vinyl chloride by microsomal cytochrome P-450 oxidation pathways, the highest levels of radiolabel were located in the fat, with lesser amounts in the blood, liver, kidney, muscle, and spleen. When metabolism was not blocked, the highest levels of radiolabeled metabolites were located in the liver and kidney (Buchtcr et al. 1977). At 10 minutes after a 5-minute exposure of rats to 20,000 ppm 14C-vinvl chloride, radiolabel was detected in the liver, bile duct, digestive tract, and kidney (Duprat et al. 1977). At 3 hours after the exposure described above, radiolabel was also detected in the urinary tract, salivary and lacrimal glands, thymus, and skin. Immediately after a 5-hour exposure to 14C-vinvl chloride at 50 ppm, tissue levels of 14C-activity, expressed as the percentage incorporated per gram of tissue, were highest in the kidney (2.139?,) and liver (1.86%), with lower levels in the spleen (0.73%) and brain (0.17%) (Bolt el al. 1976a). Radioactivity in tissue was measured in rats 72 hours after exposure to 10 or 1,000 ppm 14C-vinyl chloride for 6 hours. In order of decreasing concentration for rats exposed to 10 ppm, 14C-labeled compounds (expressed as percentage), present as nonvolatile metabolites, were delected in the liver (0.14), kidney (0.0S), skin (0.07), lung (0.07), muscle (0.05), carcass (0.05), plasma (0.05), and fat (0.03). For rats exposed to 1,000 ppm, radiolabel (expressed as percentage) was detected in the liver (0.15), skin (0.12), kidney (0.06), carcass (0.05), lung (0.05), muscle (0.04), fat (not detected), and plasma (not detected) (Watanabe et al. 1976b). There was no difference in the routes or rate of excretion between repeated-dose versus single-dose exposure of rats to 5,000 ppm of 14C-vinyl chloride (Watanabe et al. 1978a). The concentration of radiolabel detected in tissues 72 hours after exposure revealed no statistically significant difference between rats exposed once or repeatedly to vinyl chloride. Percentages of radioactivity detected in tissues are as follows (for single and repeated doses, respectively): liver (0.12)(0.16), kidney (0.06)(0.07), skin (0.05)(0.08), carcass (0.03)(0.04), fat (not detecled)(not detected).
Placental transfer of vinyl chloride can occur rapidly in rats. Female rats exposed to approximately 0, 2,000, 7,000, or 13,000 ppm vinyl chloride for 2.5 hours on gestational day IS showed high concentrations of vinyl chloride in maternal and fetal blood and amniotic fluid. The maternal blood had the highest levels (Ungvary et al. 1978).
2.3.2.2 Oral Exposure
No studies were located regarding tissue distribution in humans after ora! exposure to vinyl chloride.
The level of 14C-nonvolatilc metabolites was measured in tissues of rats 72 hours after single gavage doses (0.05-100 mg/kg) of 14C-vinyl chloride in corn oil (Watanabe et al. 1976a). The highest levels of
"DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037924
44
2 HEALTH EFFECTS
radioactivitv for each close level occurred in the liver. Theses levels were 2-5 times higher than in the other tissues examined (skin, plasma, muscle, lung, fat, and carcass),
2.3.2.3 Dermal Exposure
No studies were located regarding tissue distribution for humans or animals after dermal exposure to vinyl chloride.
2.3.3 Metabolism
2.3.3.1 Inhalation Exposure
In the onlv human data located, metabolism of vinyl chloride was attributed to the cytochrome P-450 monooxvgenases in the S-9 fraction from surgically obtained liver specimens. These preparations metabolized vinyl chloride to electrophiles that were mutagenic to Salmonella Ivnhimurium TA1530 (Sabadic ct al. 1980). When compared with the number of revertants per plate resulting from identically prepared S-9 fractions from female strain BD IV rats, human S-9 fractions induced mutations (and presumably metabolism to a reactive electrophile) to an average 84% of the extent mediated by rat S-9. However, a ninefold individual variation was observed.
Early work on the metabolism of vinyl chloride in animals indicated that metabolism is a dose-dependent, saturable process. Rats were exposed to vinyl chloride in a closed chamber at concentrations of about 50-1,000 ppm for 52.5-356.3 minutes (Hefner ct al. 1975b). Additional rats pretrealed with ethanol (to inhibit alcohol dehydrogenase activity) or SKF 525-A (to inhibit microsomal oxidase activity) were similarly exposed. Metabolism, estimated by measuring the rate of disappearance of vinyl chloride from the closed system, followed first-order kinetics with a half-life of 86 minutes at less than 100 ppm. At greater than 220 ppm, metabolism was slowed to a half-life of 261 minutes, suggesting saturation of the pathway predominant at less than 100 ppm. Prelreatment with ethanol depressed the rate of metabolism by approximately 83% at less than 100 ppm but by approximately 47% at greater than 1,000 ppm. Pretreatment with SKF 525-A, however, had no effect at less than 100 ppm but depressed metabolism by 19% at greater than 1,000 ppm. The authors postulated three alternative pathways for metabolism, as depicted in Figure 2-3. At low concentrations, sequential oxidation to 2-chlorocthanol, 2-chloroacetaldchydc, and 2-chloroacetic acid involving alcohol dehydrogenase (inhibited by pretreatment with ethanol) appeared to be the predominant pathway. Little 2-chloroacctic acid was formed, however, probably because 2-chloroacctaldehydc conjugated rapidly with ubiquitous sulfhydryl groups. When the alcohol dehydrogenase pathway became saturated, 2-chloroethanol could be oxidized by catalase in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (^O?) to a peroxide, which could undergo subsequent dehydration to form 2-chloroacetaldchydc. An alternative pathway involved oxidation bv mixed-function oxidase to form a highly reactive epoxide intermediate, 2-chloroethylene oxide, which spontaneously rearranged to form 2-chloroacetaldehydc. These intermediates arc detoxified mainly through conjugation with glutathione catalyzed by glutathione S-transferase. The conjugated products arc excreted in urine as substituted cysteine derivatives and include thiodiglycolic acid, S-formyl-methylcysteine, and N-acciyl-S-(2-hvdroxvelhvl)cysleine (Bolt ct al. 1980; Hefner ct al. 1975b). Urinary metabolites identified in rats exposed by inhalation include polar compounds at low exposure concentrations (Hefner et al. 1975b; Watanabe ct al. 1976b) and 2-chloroacctic acid at high exposure concentrations (Hefner et al. 1975b).
Other animal data expand the hypotheses of Hefner et al. (1975b). Isolated rat liver cells converted 14C-vinyI chloride into nonvolatile metabolites (Hullmark et al. 1979). Using this in vitro technique, it was determined
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037925
0
-5 2. HEALTH EFFECTS
FIGURE 2-3. Proposed Metabolic Pathways for Vinyl Chloride1
cih2c-ch2oh 2-chloroethanol
mixed (unction
_CIHC=CH2 . oxidase
vinyl chloride
hydrogen peroxide and catalase
alcohol dehydrogenase
CIH2 c-ch2oh
2-chloroacetaldehyde
cih2c-ch2ooh 2-chloroethylhydroperoxide
/ aldehyde
^ dehydrogenase
cih2c-chooh
2-chloroacetic acid"
I + glutathione
g-s-ch2-cooh
S-carboxymethyl glutathione
+ glutathione
glutathione
G-S-CH2-CHO S-tormylmethyl
^ g/hl\u2tacth-ciohne
Cl 2-chloroethylene oxide
cys-S-CH2-CHO S-formylmethyl
cysteine"
/
cys-S-CH2-COOH
S-carboxymethyl cysteine
I -NHa ammonia
(transamination)
/ -- COs carbon dioxide
(oxidative decarboxylation)
/
HOOC-CH2-S-CH2-COOH
thiodiglycolic acid (thiodiacetic acid)"
cys-S-CH2-CH2OH S-(2-hydroxyethyl)-cysteine
N-Ac-cys-S-CH 2-CH 2OH N-acetyl-S-(2-hydroxyethyi)cysteine*
* Sources: Plugge and Safe (1977); Bolt et al. (1980); Hefner et al. (1975b) ** Excreted In urine
`"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037926
46
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
that metabolism was NADPH-dependent, located in the microsomal fraction of the liver, and probably involved a mixed-function oxidase. Pretrealmcnt with 6-nitro-l,2,3-benzothiadiazoIe, an inhibitor of some microsomal cytochrome P-450 oxidation pathways, was sufficient to totally block the metabolism of vinyl chloride in rats exposed to 0.45 ppm in a closed system for 5 hours (Bolt ct al. 1977). This observation suggests that metabolism of vinyl chloride proceeds primarily through a mixed-function oxidase pathway with likely production of an epoxide intermediate.
Inhalation exposure of high concentrations of vinyl chloride has also been associated with reduction in liver nonprotein sulfhydryl concentration in the rat. These results are consistent with conjugation of the metabolites of vinyl chloride with limited reserves of glutathione and/or cysteine (Bolt et al. 1976b; Hefner et al. 1975b; Jedrychowski et al. 1984; Watanabe et al. 1978a).
Saturation of metabolic pathways was observed in rats and monkeys that were exposed in a closed system 14C-vinyl chloride (Bolt et al. 1977; Buchter ct al. 1980; Filscr and Bolt 1979). In rats, the threshold for saturation was determined to be approximately 250 ppm and a metabolic rate (Vniax) of 110 mol/hour/kg was estimated (Bolt et al. 1977; Filser and Bolt 1979). In a similar experiment in rhesus monkeys, metabolic saturation was observed to occur at 200 ppm. with a Vmax of 50 mol/hour/kg (Buchter et al. 1980). The
of 50 mol/hour/kg that was estimated using rhesus monkeys was suggested as a closer approximation of metabolism in humans than the value of 110 mol/hour/kg estimated for rats bv Filser and Bolt (1979).
Several investigators have observed the binding of nonvolatile metabolites of 14C-vinyl chloride to liver macromolecules in vitro and in rats exposed by inhalation (Gucngcrich and Watanabe 1979; Gucngcrich ct al. 1979, 1981; Kappus et al. 1976; Watanabe et al. 1978a, 1978b). In single-exposure experiments at different concentrations, the extent of macromolecular binding increased proportionately to the amount of vinyl chloride metabolized and disproportionately to the exposure concentration (Watanabe et al. 1978a). The extent of macromolecular binding was increased by repeated exposure to vinyl chloride (Watanabe et al. 1978b) and by pretreatment with phenobarbital (Gucngcrich and Watanabe 1979). Macromolecular binding has been attributed to the reactive intermediate 2-chlorocthylcnc oxide, which has been shown to bind to DNA and ribonucleic acid (RNA), and to its rearrangement product, 2-chloroacctaldehydc, which has been shown to bind to protein molecules (Guengcrich and Watanabe 1979; Guengerich et al. 1979, 1981; Kappus et al. 1976; Watanabe et al. 1978a, 1978b).
2.3.3.2 Oral Exposure
No studies were located regarding metabolism in humans after oral exposure to vinyl chloride.
Urinary metabolites identified from rats ingesting l4C-vinyl chloride are consistent with the metabolic pathways postulated for inhalation exposure, in particular with the formation of 2-chloroethylene oxide and 2-chloroacetaldehyde. Metabolites identified include N-acctyl-S-(2-hydroxyethy!)cystcinc, 2-chloroacclic acid, and thiodiglycolic acid (Green and Hathway 1975, 1977; Watanabe and Gchring 1976; Watanabe et al. 1976a). Metabolic saturation appears to occur with a single gavage dose of between 1 and 100 mg/kg/day (Watanabe et al. 1976a).
2.3.3.3 Dermal Exposure
No studies were located regarding metabolism in humans or animals after dermal exposure to vinyl chloride.
"'DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
47
2 HEALTH EFFECTS
2.3.4 Excretion
2.3.4.1 Inhalation Exposure
Human data suggest that exhalation of unmctaboiized vinyl chloride is not an important pathway ol elimination at low exposure concentrations. The mean concentration in expired air lor humans exposed for 6 hours to air containing 2.9-23.5 ppm ranged from 0.21 to 1.11 ppm, representing up to 3.6-4.73% of the inhaled concentration (Krajewski et al. 1980).
Animal studies indicate that the importance of exhalation of vinyj chloride as a major route ol excretion varies with the exposure concentration. The mode of excretion of vinyl chloride and its metabolites following inhalation exposure of animals to different concentrations reflects the saturation of metabolic pathways at low concentrations. The cumulative excretion of radioactivity over a 72-hour postexposure period was measured in rats exposed to 10-1,000 ppm (Watanabe and Gehring 1976; Watanabc et al. 1976b) or 5,000 ppm (Watanabe et al. 1978b) 14C-vinyl chloride for 6 hours. Radioactivity expired as carbon dioxide or vinyl chloride, excreted in the urine and feces, and retained in the carcass was expressed as a percentage of the total radioactivity recovered. The results suggest that metabolism was nearly complete al 10 ppm. because less than 2% of the recovered radioactivity occurred as unchanged parent compound. The predominant route for excretion of radioactive metabolites was through the urine, accounting for about 70% of the recovered radioactivity. Metabolism became saturated at 1,000 ppm, since unchanged vinyl chloride increased to 12.3% and urinary radioactivity decreased to 56.3%. At 5,000 ppm, more than half the recovered radioactivity appeared as unchanged vinyl chloride in expired air, and urinary excretion accounted for about 27% of the recovered activity. Generally, there was little change in the proportion of recovered radioactivity excreted in the feces or exhaled as carbon dioxide. The percentage of the radioactivity retained in the carcass and tissues appeared to be somewhat decreased at 5,000 ppm compared with 10 and 1,000 ppm, suggesting preferential retention of metabolites rather than unchanged vinyl chloride.
Pulmonary excretion of unaltered vinyl chloride in rats followed first-order kinetics regardless of exposure concentrations, with half-lives of 20.4, 22.4, and 30 minutes following 6-hour exposures at 10, 1,000, and 5,000 ppm, respectively. The urinary excretion of radioactivity was biphasic, with the second or slow phase accounting for less than 3% of the total urinary excretion. Half-lives for the rapid (first-order) phase were estimated at 4.6, 4.1, and 4.5 hours, at 10, 1,000, and 5,000 ppm, respectively. Urinary metabolites included N-acetvl-S-(2-hydroxyethyl)cysteine, thiodiglycolic acid, and possibly S-(2-hydroxvcthyI)cysteine (Watanabe et al. 1976b). Identification of these metabolites of vinyl chloride in the urine indicates that vinyl chloride is transformed in the body to a reactive metabolite, which is then detoxified by reaction with glutathione (GSH, gamma-glutamylcysteinylglycine). Subsequently the glutamic acid and glycine moieties of the tripeptidc are cleaved, and the cysteine conjugate of the reactive metabolite of vinyl chloride is either acetvlaled or further oxidized and excreted.
2.3.4.2 Oral Exposure
No studies were located regarding excretion in humans after oral exposure to vinyl chloride.
Single oral doses of 14C-vinyl chloride (0.05, 0.25, 1.0, 20, 100, and 450 mg/kg) were administered to rats, and the excretion of radioactivity was monitored over a 72-hour period (Green and Hathway 1975; Watanabe and Gehring 1976; Watanabe et al. 1976a). A striking increase in exhalation of unchanged vinyl chloride and compensatory decreases in urinary and fecal excretion of radioactivity and exhalation of carbon dioxide were
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037927
R&S 037928
48
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
observed at greater than 20 mg/kg, suggesting that metabolic saturation had occurred at that dosage. At less than 1.0 mg/kg. the predominant route of elimination was urinary excretion of polar metabolites.
Exhalation of unchanged vinyl chloride was generally complete within 3-4 hours, but excretion of metabolites continued for days (Green and Hathwav 1975). Pulmonary excretion of vinyl chloride appeared to be monophasic at less than 1.0 mg/kg, with a half-life of about 55-58 minutes (Watanabe et al. 1976a). At 100 mg/kg, pulmonary excretion of vinyl chloride was biphasic, with half-lives of 14.4 and 40.8 minutes for the rapid and slower phases, respectively. Urinary excretion of radioactivity was biphasic, with the rapid phase accounting for more than 97% of total urinary radioactivity and having half-lives of 4.5-4.6 hours for dosages of 0.05-100 mg/kg.
Metabolites identified in the urine of orally treated rats were consistent with the formation of 2-chloroethylene oxide and 2-chloroacetaldehyde (Green and Hathway 1977; Watanabe ct al. 1976a), as postulated for metabolism following inhalation exposure. The major metabolites were identified as thiodiglvcolic acid and _N-acctyl-S-(2-hydroxvethyl)cysteinc (Watanabe et al. 1976a). N-Acetyl-S-(2-chloroethyl)cvsteine and S-(2-chlorocthyl)cysteine have also been identified (Green and Hathaway 1975), but these metabolites arc believed to be an artifact of the isolation procedure that was used (Pluggc and Safe 1977). Smaller amounts of radiolabeled urea, glutamic acid, and 2-chloroacetic acid were also identified (Green and Hathway 1975).
2.3.4.3 Dermal Exposure
No studies were locating regarding excretion in humans or animals after dermal exposure to vinyl chloride.
2.3.4.4 Other Routes of Exposure
The elimination of radioactivity following intraperitoneal administration of 14C-vinyl chloride to rats resembles the pattern observed following inhalation or oral administration. Following an intraperitoneal dose of 0.25 mg/kg. exhalation of unchanged vinyl chloride, exhalation of carbon dioxide, and urinary and fecal excretion of radioactivity accounted for 43.2%, 11.0%, 43.1%, and 1.8% of the administered dose, respectively (Green and Hathway 1975). At 450 mg/kg, exhaled vinyl chloride increased to 96.2% of the administered dose, carbon dioxide decreased to 0.7%, urinary radioactivity decreased to 2.6%, and fecal radioactivity decreased to 0.1%.
Small doses administered intravenously were eliminated very rapidly and almost entirely by exhalation of unchanged vinyl chloride. Green and Hathway (1975) administered a 0.25-mg/kg intravenous dose of 14C-vinyl chloride to rats and recovered 80% of the dose within 2 minutes and 99% within 1 hour as unchanged compound in expired air.
2.4 RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH
The major route of exposure to vinyl chloride by humans living near hazardous waste sites is via inhalation. Vinyl chloride may be present in ambient air near hazardous waste sites as a result of its volatilization from leaks in storage containers, or from contaminated soil or water. Oral exposure to vinyl chloride via ingestion of contaminated water may also occur. Dermal exposure to liquid vinyl chloride is highly unlikely because of its low boiling point (-13.4C). However, vinyl chloride is generally transported as a liquid in pressurized containers, and puncture of such a container at a hazardous waste site could result in brief exposure of the
"DRAFT FOR PUEL'C COMMENT*"
R&S 037929
49
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
skin to liquid vinyl chloride. Dermal exposure to gaseous vinyl chloride may also occur, but a study using rats indicated that absorption of vinyl chloride across the skin is very limited (Hetner et al. 1975a).
Additional sources of potential exposure not directly related to living near hazardous waste sites, but which may also apply in such cases, include inhalation of emissions from vinyl chloride production or PVC manufacturing facilities, inhalation of cigarette smoke containing \inyl chloride, ingestion of water contaminated as a result of the leaching of vinyl chloride from PVC pipes, or ingestion of foods contaminated as a result of vinyl chloride leaching from PVC products used in food production or storage. The FDA now regulates the amount of vinyl chloride in PVC products that may be available to leach into foods, thus this mode of exposure is likely to be negligible.
With a vapor density of 2.15, vinyl chloride vapor tends to disperse slowly and flow along the ground, collecting in low spots (Fire 1986). Thus, children playing along the ground will have relatively greater inhalation exposure to vinyl chloride than adults walking upright in the same area.
The cl feels that have been reported to occur in humans in response to vinyl chloride exposure come almost exclusively from studies of workers exposed bv inhalation in the workplace. Because women traditionally have not been'employed in PVC-manufacturing positions in North America and Western Europe, most of the data on humans from these areas concerns effects in males. Also, virtually all of the epidemiological studies are limited by the absence of data on the actual levels to which workers were exposed. However, studies in animals by the inhalation and oral routes provide an indication of the doses of vinyl chloride that may be associated with these effects.
Acute high-level exposure of humans to vinyl chloride is associated with the development of signs of intoxication such as dizziness, drowsiness, and/or headache. Reports from vinyl chloride workers and studies in animals indicate that loss of consciousness may also be associated with exposure to very high levels. Two deaths connected with occupational exposure to vinyl chloride have been reported. Autopsy results from these men as well as autopsy results from animals dying from extremely high-level exposures indicate that levels of vinyl chloride producing death may cause lung and kidney irritation and inhibition of blood clotting. Cardiac arrhythmias and liver degeneration have also been reported in animals as a result of acute exposure to very high levels of vinyl chloride.
Longer-term exposure of humans in occupational settings has been associated with the development of a number of other toxic effects. However, exposure levels in these studies are generally not quantified, and thresholds for the effects have not been identified. Histopathological changes characteristic of vinyl chloride exposure have been reported to take place in the liver. These changes include extensive fibrosis and hypertrophy and hyperplasia of both hepatoevtes and sinusoidal cells. These changes in liver structure develop in the absence of overt symptoms of liver toxicity, and standard biochemical measures of liver lunction have been of little value in detecting them. Reports indicate that peripheral neuropathy may also develop in some workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride. Also, toxic effects on male reproductive function may occur. Studies in animals indicate that vinyl chloride may cause fetal resorptions, delayed development, and an increased incidence of the soft tissue anomaly, dilated ureter. When animals were exposed in utero. some changes in liver function were observed during adolescence.
A syndrome referred to as vinyl chloride disease has been observed in a small percentage of vinyl chloride workers, many of whom were employed as polymerization tank cleaners. This job exposed workers to very high levels of vinyl chloride. Vinyl chloride disease is very similar to systemic sclerosis and includes the following symptoms: Raynaud's phenomenon (fingers blanch and experience numbness and discomfort upon
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037930
50
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
exposure to the cold), acroosteolysis (resorption of the terminal bones of the fingers and/or toes), joint and muscle pain, enhanced collagen deposition, stiffness of the hands, and scleroderma-like skin changes. Studies in animals support these findings. In addition, renal nephrosis and developmental toxicity have been reported to occur in animals exposed to vinyl chloride, but similar results have not been confirmed in humans.
Studies in both humans and animals indicate that vinyl chloride is carcinogenic. Hepatic angiosarcoma has been identified in workers exposed to vinyl chloride by the inhalation route. Also, there are some studies that indicate that cancers of the central nervous system, respiratory tract, and lymphatic and hematopoietic systems may occur in humans following inhalation exposure. Studies in a variety of species exposed by both the inhalation and oral routes show an increased incidence of hepatic angiosarcoma. Therefore, it would be prudent to consider the potential for carcinogenic effects in humans exposed by the oral route as well.
Death. Vinyl chloride, at sufficiently high levels, may be fatal to humans following inhalation exposure. The autopsy report by Danzigcr (1960) regarding the deaths of two vinyl chloride workers indicated that death was due to asphyxiation but did not estimate the levels to which these workers had been exposed. Inhalation exposure of animals for as brief a period as 30 minutes to concentrations of vinyl chloride ranging from 100.000 to 400,000 ppm have been reported to be lethal to rats, mice, and guinea pigs (Lester ct al. 1963; Mastromallco el al. I960; Patty el al. 1930). The cause of death was attributed to respiratory failure secondary to central nervous system depression in one study (Lester et al. 1963). However, reports of cardiac arrhythmicily at similar levels (Carr et al. 1949; Ostcr et al. 1946) suggest that cardiac arrest may have contributed to the deaths. The levels of vinyl chloride found to cause death in animals arc extremely high and unlikely to exist under most environmental conditions (with the exception of concentrated emissions from a large point source). Due to the limited solubility of vinyl chloride in water, acute ingestion of a lethal dose of vinyl chloride in contaminated water is improbable. Thus, it is unlikely that exposure to low levels of vinyl chloride in the air or water near hazardous waste sites will cause death acutely.
Longer-term, low-level exposures have been associated with decreased survival in a number of animal inhalation exposure studies (Adkins ct al. 1986; Drew et al. 1983; Feron et al. 1979b; Hong et al. 1981; Lee ct al. 1978; Viola et al. 1970) and oral exposure studies (Feron ct al. 1981; Til ct al. 1983). Decreased survival of rats was observed at inhalation exposures as low as 50 ppm when exposed 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 10 months (Hong ct al. 1981) and oral exposures as low as 1.7 mg/kg/day over the course of a lifetime (Til ct al. 1983). The decreased survival noted in these studies may be a reflection of increased mortality due to cancer induction by vinyl chloride.
The significance of a shortened lifespan in animals following low-level chronic exposure with regard to potential adverse effects in humans is unknown.
Systemic Effects
Respiratory Effects. Both autopsy reports from workers with vinyl chloride-related deaths (Danzigcr 1960) and animal studies using extremely high levels of vinyl chloride (100,000 ppm and above)(Lestcr ct al. 1963: Mastromaiteo cl al. 1960) indicate that such levels of vinyl chloride cause respiratory irritation by the inhalation route. It is unlikely that respiratory irritation will result from exposure to low levels of vinyl chloride in the air near hazardous waste sites.
Studies of workers, who have been occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride, give mixed results regarding the chronic respirators1 effects of vinyl chloride. Whereas Gamble ct al. (1976). LaPlanche ct al. (1987), and W'axwciler ct al. (1977) reported no adverse respiratory effects associated with occupational vinyl chloride
"`DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037931
51
2. HEALTH effects
exposure, other investigators found increased incidences of emphysema, decreased respiratory volume and vital capacity, respiratory insufficiency, decreased respiratory oxygen and carbon dioxide transfer, pulmonary fibrosis, and abnormal chest x-rays (Juhe et al. 1974: Lilis et al. 1975, 1976; Lloyd el al. 1984; Suciu et al. 1975; Walker 1976; Wong el al. 1986). Factors that may confound the interpretation of these results include smoking history and exposure to PVC resin dust or to other chemicals.
Histopathologic examination of rats and mice exposed to vinyl chloride for periods of 6 months or a year provide some supportive evidence for respiratory pathology associated with high-level exposure (2,500 and 5.000 ppm)(Feron and Kroes 1979; Suzuki 1978, 1980, 1981). These studies have identified changes such as proliferation and hypertrophy of bronchiolar epithelium, hypersecretion of mucin, hyperplasia of alveolar epithelium, mobilization of alveolar macrophages, increased pulmonary hemorrhages, and interstitial pneumonia.
Cardiovascular Effects. A small percentage of workers exposed to vinyl chloride develop vinyl chloride disease. One of the symptoms of this disease is a condition referred to as Raynaud's phenomenon, in which the fingers blanch and experience numbness and discomfort upon exposure to the cold. Arteriography and biopsy material from afflicted workers indicate that vinyl chloride may cause blockage of the blood vessels supplying the hand, hypervascularity, and a thickening of the blood vessel walls (Harris and Adams 1967; Juhe et al. 1974; Preston et al. 1976; Veltman et al. 1975; Walker 1976).
Vinyl chloride disease has been reported to be an autoimmune response similar to systemic sclerosis. Mechanisms for the vascular effects have been proposed by Grainger et al, (1980) and Ward (1976), which relate the vascular response to immunologic changes observed in these workers. According to these mechanisms, a reactive vinyl chloride intermediate metabolite, such as 2-chloroethvlene oxide or 2-chloroacetaldchyde, binds to a protein such as IgG. The altered protein initiates an immune response, with deposition of immune products along the vascular endothelium. Circulating immune complexes are proposed to precipitate in response to exposure to the cold, and these precipitates are proposed to cause blockage of the small vessels.
Studies in rodents exposed by inhalation to high levels of vinyl chloride, have reproduced these symptoms to some extent. Thickening of arterial vessel walls has been observed in rats exposed to high concentrations ot vinyl chloride for a year (Feron and Kroes 1979; Viola 1970). Threshold levels for the production of this effect have not been determined. However, because of the appearance of Raynaud's phenomenon only in workers with exposure to very high levels of vinyl chloride, it is presumed unlikely that persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride near hazardous waste sites would be affected.
Limited data are available regarding cardiovascular-related deaths in humans (Bryen et al. 1976); however, cardiac arrhythmias have been produced in dogs exposed by inhalation to extremely high levels of vinyl chloride (Carr et al. 1949; Oster et al. 1946). It is unlikely that persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride in the air or water near hazardous waste sites will develop cardiac rhythm abnormalities.
Hematological Effects. The blood of both humans and animals that died as a result of acute exposure to extremely high levels of vinyl chloride did not clot (Danzigcr 1960; Mastromatteo et al. 1960). Also, slight-tosevere thrombocytopenia has been observed in vinyl chloride workers in several but not all studies (Juhe et al. 1974; Lilis et al. 1975; Marstellar et al. 1975; Micu et al. 1985; Veltman el al. 1975). However, studies in animals using nonlethal concentrations of vinyl chloride have indicated that such levels result in a decreased clotting time. In studies by Feron el al. (1979a) and Feron and Kroes (1979) a decrease was observed in the time necessary for blood to clot in rats exposed to 5,000 ppm for 1 year. A decreased
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
52
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
clotting time was also observed in rats fed 17 mg/kg/day for 1 year (Feron et al. 1981). Thus, it is uncertain whether persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride near hazardous waste sites would experience abnormal clotting times.
Musculoskeletal Effects. Another characteristic of vinyl chloride disease is acroosleolysis, in which the terminal phalanges of the fingers are resorbed. Acroosteolysis, in vinyl chloride workers, was observed to be preceded by Raynaud's phenomenon in most instances (Dinman et al. 1971; Freudigcr et al. 1988; Harris and Adams 1967; Magnavita et al. 1986; Markowitz et al. 1972; Preston et al. 1976; Sakabe 1975; Veltman et al. 1975; Wilson et al. 1967). It is unclear whether the resorptive bone changes are due to activation of osteoclasts secondary to vascular insufficiency in the finger tips. Because acroosleolysis was observed exclusively in workers with very high levels of exposure, it is unlikely that persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride near hazardous waste sites would be affected.
Hepatic Effects. Changes in the liver have been observed in humans exposed to vinyl chloride via inhalation. The characteristic pattern of changes consists of hypertrophy and hyperplasia of hcpalocyics and sinusoidal cells; sinusoidal dilation associated with damage to the cells lining the sinusoids and/or sinusoidal occlusion associated with crowding due to cellular hypertrophy and hyperplasia; focal areas of hepatocellular degeneration due to disruption of hepatic circulation; and fibrosis of portal tracts, septa, and intralobular perisinusoidal regions (Falk et al. 1974; Gedigkc et al. 1975; Juhe et al. 1974; Marsteller el al. 1975; Popper and Thomas 1975; Popper ct al. 1981; Tamburro cl al. 1984). These findings arc supported bv studies in animals (Popper ct al. 1981; Sokal ct al. 1980; Torkelson et al. 1961). The primary difference between effects observed in animals and humans was the greater degree of fibrosis (reliculin and collagen deposition) in human liver tissue. Structural changes occurred in the livers of humans and animals with little or no change in scrum hepatic enzyme activities. Most likely this was because of the limited scope of the necrotic changes. An intermediate-duration inhalation MRL was derived based on hepatic toxicity in male rats observed in a study by Bi et al. (1985).
Hepatotoxicily has also been observed in chronic oral studies. Areas of cellular alteration and necrosis were observed in rats orally exposed to vinyl chloride (Feron et al. 1981; Til cl al. 1983). A chronic-duration oral MRL was developed based on hcpatotoxic effects in rats observed by Til et al. (1983). Based on the above data it would be prudent to consider that persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride in the air or in contaminated water at hazardous waste sites may develop similar hepatic changes.
Acute degenerative changes were also seen in the livers of animals that inhaled extremely high levels of vinyl chloride (Mastromatteo et al. I960), but it is unlikely for persons briefly exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride near hazardous waste sites to develop similar degenerative changes.
Renal Effects. No evidence of human renal disease has been reported in studies of workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride. However, increased severity of tubular nephrosis and increased kidney to body weight ratios were observed in rats exposed to concentrations of vinyl chloride ranging from 100 to 5,000 ppm for periods of up to a year (Bi et al. 1985; Feron and Kroes 1979; Feron ct al. 1979a). It is unclear whether the effects observed in rats represent an increase in severity of naturally occurring tubular nephrosis in rats, or whether these effects represent a lesion attributable to toxic effects of vinyl chloride on the kidney. Thus, insufficient data are available to predict whether persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride over long periods may develop renal toxicity.
Dermal/Ocular Effects. The third most common characteristic of vinyl chloride disease that was identified in persons with exposure to very high levels of vinyl chloride (polymerization tank cleaners) is thickening of
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037932
53
2 HEALTH EFFECTS
the subcnidermal layer of the skin. The changes in the skin mav appear as maculae above the joints of the fingers or rope-like bundles on the hands and forearms (Juhe et al. 1974: Lilis ct al. 1975; Marstellcr ct al. 1975; Suciu ct al. 1963, 1975; Veltman et al. 1976: Walker 1976). Analysis of biopsied tissue indicates that the thickening is due to increased synthesis and deposition of collagen (Jayson et al. 1976). In most cases, the skin changes arc also preceded by Raynaud's phenomenon. Thickening of the skin and increased collagen content have been reproduced to some extent in rats administered high concentrations of vinyl chloride by gavage (Knight and Gibbons 1987). Based on the appearance of this effect predominantly in persons with exposure to very high levels of vinyl chloride, it is unlikely that low-level exposures near hazardous waste sites would cause similar effects.
Immunological Effects. Increased levels of circulating immune complexes and immunoglobulins have been observed in vinyl chloride workers indicating a stimulatory effect of vinyl chloride on the immune system (Bogdanikowa and Zawilska 1984; Wagncrova ct al. 1986, 19S8).
When workers with vinyl chloride disease were examined, a correlation of the severity of the symptoms of vinyl chloride disease (Raynaud's phenomenon, acroosteolysis, joint and muscle pain, enhanced collagen deposition, stiffness of the hands, sclcrodcrma-likc skin changes) with the magnitude of the immune response was observed (Grainger et al. 1980; Langaucr-Lewowicka et al. 1976; Ward 1976). The most frequent immunologic findings in workers with vinyl chloride disease w'erc an increase in circulating immune complexes or cryoglobulinemia. As the severity of the clinical signs of vinyl chloride disease increased, there was an increase in B-cell proliferation, hyperimmunoglobulincmia. and complement activation.
Because of the similarity of vinyl chloride disease with the proposed autoimmune disease, systemic sclerosis, and the association of many autoimmune diseases with certain inherited genetic characteristics, the human lymphocyte antigen (HLA) phenotypes of vinyl chloride workers both with and without vinyl chloride disease were examined (Black ct al. 1983, 1986). The study authors determined that susceptibility to vinyl chloride disease was increased in the presence of the HLA-DR5 allele or a gene in linkage disequilibrium with it, and progression of the disease to its more severe forms was favored by HLA-DR3 and HLA-B8.
A stimulation of the immune response has been observed in mice exposed to low-to-modcrate levels of vinyl chloride via inhalation for several weeks (Sharma and Gehring 1979). Thus, it may be possible for persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride in the air or water near hazardous waste sites to develop immune stimulation. The threshold for developing an autoimmune response in susceptible persons is unknown.
Neurological Effects. Central nervous system depression is the earliest symptom associated with acute highlevel vinyl chloride exposure in humans and animals. Concentrations as low as 8,000 ppm may cause dizziness in humans exposed by inhalation (Lester et al. 1963). Workers exposed to vinyl chloride, before occupational standards were made more rigorous, complained of dizziness, drowsiness, euphoria, nausea, headache, and occasional loss of consciousness (Juhe et al. 1974; Langauer-Lcwowicka ct al. 1976; Lilis et al. 1975; Marsteller et al. 1975; Spirtas et al. 1975; Suciu cl al. 1963, 1975; Veltman et al. 1975; Walker 1976; Waxweiler et al. 1977). These symptoms were most frequently experienced by those employed in positions with the greatest exposure to vinyl chloride (cleaners of the autoclaves used to synthesize PVC).
A stale of unconsciousness was produced in animals acutely exposed via inhalation to concentrations of approximately 100,000 ppm (Hehir et al. 1981; Jaeger et al. 1974; Mastromattco et al. 1960), It is unlikely that exposure to low levels of vinyl chloride in air or water near hazardous waste sites would cause central nervous system depression.
***DFtAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037933
54
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
Reports by Magnavita ct al. (1986) and Percotini et al. (1986) suggest that peripheral nerve damage may occur in occupationally exposed workers. Chronic inhalation exposure of animals to high levels of vinyl chloride caused nerve damage (Viola et al. 1970, 1971). However, threshold levels for this effect are unknown. Thus, it is unknown whether persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride in air or water near hazardous waste sites would experience nerve damage.
Developmental Effects. Although a statistically significant increase in congenital abnormalities has been observed in members of some communities located near a vinyl chloride processing facility, reports have failed to establish a statistically significant association between developmental toxicity and either parental occupation or proximity to the facility (Edmonds et al. 1978; Infante et al. 1976a, 1976b; Rosenman et al. 1988; Theriault et al. 1983; Waxweiler et al. 1977). In contrast, a number of inhalation studies using pregnant animals have shown developmental toxicity consisting of resorptions, decreased litter size and fetal weight, delayed ossification, and dilated ureters. These effects occurred when animals were exposed during the first trimester of pregnancy and at moderately high levels of vinyl chloride (500-2,500 ppm) (John cl al. 1977, 1981; Ungvary et al. 1978). However, these levels also produced maternal toxicity characterized by increased liver weight, decreased food consumption and weight gain, and increased mortality. Adverse postnatal effects have been observed in rats following in utero exposure to low levels of vinyl chloride (Sal'nikova and Kotsovskaya 1980). Therefore, it would be prudent to consider the possibility of developmental effects in environmentally exposed human populations as well.
Reproductive Effects. Studies in humans indicate that male reproductive function may be adversely affected by exposure to vinyl chloride. Decreased androgen levels have been found in workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride (Makarov 1984; Walker 1976). Also workers have complained of impotency and decreased libido (Suciu et al 1975; Veltman et al. 1975; Walker 1976), and a decrease in sexual function was reported by Makarov (1984). These findings are supported by evidence of testicular damage in rats exposed by inhalation (Bi et al. 1985; Sokal et al. 1980).
Fewer studies have reported the effects of vinyl chloride on reproductive function in females. However, a study by Makarov ct al. (1984) suggests that menstrual activity may be disturbed in female vinyl chloride workers. Also, reduced hemoglobin levels during pregnancy and an increased incidence of elevated blood pressure and edema during pregnancy (preeclampsia) have been observed by Bao et al. (1988). Studies designed to examine these effects in animals were not located. At present, it is unclear whether adverse reproductive effects could occur in persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride in the air or water near hazardous waste sites. However, it would be prudent to consider the possibility of reproductive effects in environmentally exposed populations.
Genotoxic Effects, Vinyl chloride is mutagenic in S. tvnhimurium (Andrews et al. 1976; Bartsch et al. 1975, 1976; de Meester ct al. 1980; Elmore et al. 1976; Poncelet et al. 1980; Simmon ct al. 1977), but only in strains reverted by base-pair substitution by alkylating agents rather than by frameshifi mutations (Bartsch et al. 1976). Metabolic activation is necessary for any mutagenic activity in this system (Rannug ct al. 1974) or for a maximal response (Simmon et al. 1977). In addition, vinyl chloride in the vapor phase is mutagenic, but not when it is dissolved in water (Poncelet et al. 1980).
Concentrations of vinyl chloride tested in vitro range from 0.275% (Shahin 1976) to 20% (Simmon et al. 1977; Victorin and Stahlberg 1988). Shahin (1976) reported negative results for 0.275% and 0.55% in Saccharomvces cercvisiae. In S. tvnhimurium, a doubling of revertants has been reported to occur at about 5%. vinyl chloride (Victorin and Stahlberg 1988a).
'DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037934
R&S 037935
55
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
There is evidence that in S. tvnhimurium. it is the oxidation of vinyl chloride to the reactive intermediates 2-chloroethylcne oxide and 2-chloroacetaldehydc that is responsible for the mutagenicity of vinyl chloride (Jacobsen et al. 1989; McCann et al. 1975; Rannug et al. 1976). Chloroacetaldehyde appears to be less genotoxic in veast and Chinese hamster ovary cells than 2-chIoroethvIene oxide (Huberman et al. 1975; Lopricno et al. 1977), and has been shown to inhibit DNA synthesis in avian cells (Kandala et al. 1990). However, 2-chIoroacetaldehyde has been shown to react directly with single-stranded DNA. which then caused base changes and subsequent reversion in Escherichia coli when the DNA was inserted via phage (Jacobsen et al. 1989). The different effects of the aldehyde and oxide in these studies may reflect differences between the procaryotic and eucaryotic genomes.
Identification of the etheno-derived nucleosides as DNA and RNA adducts following vinyl chloride exposure provides one mechanism for the mutagenicity of this compound (Laib and Bolt 1977). There is evidence that chloroethylene oxide is responsible for the formation of the etheno-DNA adducts, which in turn cause basepair substitutions (Barbin et al. 1985a; Boll 1988). These findings support the in vivo studies (see Section 2.2.1.7) that indicate that 2-chloroethylene oxide is responsible for DN'A alkylaLion as well as preneoplastic foci in the liver. Kev in vivo genotoxicity studies are presented in Table 2-3 and in vitro genotoxicity studies are presented in Table 2-4.
Cancer. A large number of studies have reported a greater than expected incidence of a rare type of cancer, angiosarcoma of the liver, among workers exposed to vinyl chloride (Brycn et al. 1976; Creech and Johnson 1974; Fox and Collier 1977; Infante et al. 1976; Jones et al, 1988; Monson et al. 1975; Pirastu et al. 1990; Rinsky et al. 1988; Tela et al, 1990; Waxweiler et al. 1976; Weber et al. 1981; Wong et al. 1986; Wu et al. 1989). Other types of cancer that have shown a statistically significant increase in incidence among vinyl chloride workers, in at least some studies, include cancer of the brain and central nervous system, the lung and respiratory tract, and the lymphatic/hematopoietic system (Belli et al. 1987; Cooper 1981; Infante et al. 1976; Rinsky et al. 1988; Smulevich et al. 1988; Waxweiler el al. 1977; Weber et al. 1981; Wong et al. 1981).
Because women traditionally have not been employed in PVC-manufacturing positions in the North America and Western Europe, virtually all of the information available from occupational studies in these areas is based on the responses of males to vinyl chloride. One study by Smulevich et al. (1988) reporting on Soviet males and females occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride indicates that females may have higher incidences of stomach and lung cancers, leukemias, and lymphomas than males.
Increased incidences of angiosarcoma of the liver have been found after inhalation of vinyl chloride vapor by a variety of animal species (Maltoni et al. 1981). Although no studies examining the incidence of carcinogenic effects in humans exposed to vinyl chloride by the oral route have been located, vinyl chloride incorporated into the diet of rats has been demonstrated to cause an increased incidence of hepatic angiosarcoma. Based on these findings, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (1ARC) has concluded that sufficient evidence for carcinogenicity in humans and animals exists and has placed vinyl chloride in carcinogenicity category 1, carcinogenic to humans (IARC 1979). EPA also has concluded that sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity exists in humans and animals and has classified vinyl chloride according to its classification scheme as a Group A carcinogen, human carcinogen (EPA 1980a). Because the epidemiological evidence does not provide sufficient exposure and incidence data to quantify risk based solely on human data, cancer potency factors for inhalation and oral exposure have been calculated based on animal studies. An upper bound qt* of 2.95X10'1 (mg/kg/day)'1 was estimated by EPA (1985c) based on the incidence of hepatic angiosarcoma observed in rats in the inhalation study by Maltoni et al. (1981). An upper
***DFtAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
TABLE 2-3. Genotoxicity of Vinyl Chloride In Vivo
9S6ZC0 S^?y
HEALTH EFFECTS
" DRAFT FOR PUBUC COMMEbTP
Species (lest system) Mouse Rat Human lymphocyte
Rat
Mouse Rat
End point
Results
Dominant lethal
Dominant lethal Chromosomal aberration
-- -- +
Chromosomal aberration Sister chromatid exchange
Chromosomal aberration
+ + + + + + + +
DNA alkylation DNA alkylation
+ + + + + + + +
+ +
DNA = deoxyribonucleic acid; - = negative result; + = positive result
Reference
Purchase et al. 1975 Anderson et al. 1976 Short et al. 1977 Anderson and
Richardson 198! Hansteen et al. 1978 Hansteen et al. 1978 Kucerova et al. 1979 Kucerova et al. 1979 Purchase et al. 1978 Ducatman et ai. 1975 Anderson et al. 1980 Fucic et al. 1990 Funes-Cravioto et al.
1975 Hrivnak et al. 1990 Laib et al. 1989 Gwinner et al. 1983 Singer et al. 1987 Bolt et al. 1986 Ciroussel et al. 1990 Eberle et al. 1989 Osterman-Golkarct al
197 7 Waites el at. 1988 Green and Hathway
1978
HEALTH EFFECTS DRAFT FOR PUBUC
TABLE 2-4. Genotoxicity of Vinyl Chloride In Vitro
Species (test system)
End point
Rcsulls
With activation
Without activation
Reference
Salmonella typhimurium
0 Escherichia coli 1 Saccharomyces cerevisiae 2j Schizosaccharomvces pombe ; Chinese hamster ovary cells
Bacillus subtilis Rat liver microsomes QT6 (avian cells)
Reverse mutation
Forward mutation Rec-rcpair RNA alkylation Inhibition of
DNA synthesis
+ + + + Not tested + + +
+ + + + + +
+ + Not applicable Not tested + Not applicable Not tested Not applicable Not applicable
Not tested + + + + +
Rannug ct al. 197-1 Bartsch et al. 1975, 191 Andrews ct al. 1976 Simmon et al. 1977 Elmore et all 1976 Poncelet et al. 1980 de Mecstcr et al. 1980 Victorin and Stalilbcrg
1988a McCann et al. 1975 Rannug et al. 1976 Jacobsen ct al. 1989 Shahin 1976 Loprienoet al. 1977 Huberman et al. 1975 Elmore et al. 1976 Diib and Bolt 1977 Kandala et al. 1990
ro
DNA = deoxyribonucleic acid; RNA = ribonucleic acid; -- = negative result; + = positive result
IZ6LZ0 s^y
58
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
bound q,* for oral exposure was estimated by EPA (1985b) to be 2.3x10'' (mg/kg/day)"1 based on the combined incidence of liver and lung tumors in rats in the study by Feron et al. (1981). Doses associated with excess cancer risks of 10~\ 10 , and 10*6 by the inhalation and oral routes are plotted in Figures 2-1 and 2-2, respectively.
There are ample data on the genotoxicity of vinyl chloride in both humans and animals. Information on the mechanisms by which this compound may exert its carcinogenic effects have been elucidated from both jn vitro and in vivo studies. Vinyl chloride is metabolized to 2-chloroethylene oxide, which interacts directly with DNA and RNA, producing alkylation products such as S^-ethenocytidinc, lj^-ethenoadenosine, 7-J9-(2oxoethyl)-guanosine. This alkylation results in highly efficient base-pair substitution. It appears that the oxide ^ is the ultimate genotoxic intermediate of vinyl chloride, which is consistent with data on the carcinogenicity of the oxirane derivatives of vinyl chloride.
2.5 BIOMARKERS OF EXPOSURE AND EFFECT
Biomarkers arc broadly defined as indicators signaling events in biologic systems or samples. They have been classified as markers of exposure, markers of effect, and markers of susceptibility (NAS/NRC 1989).
A biomarker of exposure is a xenobiotic substance or its mctabolite(s) or the product of an interaction between a xenobiotic agent and some target molecule or cell that is measured within a compartment of an organism (NAS/NRC 1989). The preferred biomarkers of exposure arc generally the substance itself or substance-specific metabolites in readily obtainable body fluid or excreta. However, several factors can confound the use and interpretation of biomarkers of exposure. The body burden of a substance may be the result of exposures from more than one source. The substance being measured may be a metabolite of another xenobiotic substance (e.g., high urinary levels of phenol can result from exposure to several different aromatic compounds). Depending on the properties of the substance (e.g., biologic half-life) and environmental conditions (e.g., duration and route of exposure), the substance and all of its metabolites may have left the body by the time biologic samples can be taken. It may be difficult to identify individuals exposed to hazardous substances that are commonly found in body tissues and fluids (e.g., essential mineral nutrients such as copper, zinc, and selenium). Biomarkers of exposure to vinyl chloride are discussed in Section 2.5.1.
Biomarkers of effect are defined as any measurable biochemical, physiologic, or other alteration within an organism that, depending on magnitude, can be recognized as an established or potential health impairment or disease (NAS/NRC 1989). This definition encompasses biochemical or cellular signals of tissue dysfunction (e.g., increased liver enzyme activity or pathologic changes in female genital epithelial cells), as well as physiologic signs of dysfunction such as increased blood pressure or decreased lung capacity, Note that these markers are often not substance specific. They also may not be directly adverse, but can indicate potential health impairment (e.g., DNA adducts). Biomarkers of effects caused by vinyl chloride are discussed in Section 2.5.2.
A biomarker of susceptibility is an indicator of an inherent or acquired limitation of an organism's ability to respond to the challenge of exposure to a specific xenobiotic substance. It can be an intrinsic genetic or other characteristic or a preexisting disease that results in an increase in absorbed dose, biologically effective dose, or target tissue response. If biomarkers of susceptibility exist, they arc discussed in Section 2.7, "Populations That Are Unusually Susceptible."
"DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT"*
59 2. HEALTH EFFECTS
2.5,1 Biomarkers Used to Identify or Quantify Exposure to Vinyl Chloride
Exposure to vinyl chloride may he monitored to some extent by the identification and quantitation of a number of parameters. For example, following acute exposure to moderate to high levels, vinyl chloride can be measured in expired, air. The expiration of vinyl chloride follows first-order kinetics; therefore, this parameter may be directly correlated with exposure levels (Barctta et al. 1969). This measure may provide the most direct evidence of vinyl chloride exposure. However, measurement of exposure by this technique is limited by the rapidity of excretion of vinyl chloride in expired air. The half-life of vinyl chloride in expired air has been determined to be between 20 and 30 minutes following an inhalation exposure and to be approximately 60 minutes following an oral exposure (Walanabe and Gehring 1976; Watanabe et al. 1976b, 1978a, 1978b). Thus, testing must be initiated as soon as possible following termination of exposure. Furthermore, measurement of vinyl chloride in expired air has limited utility for low-level exposures (<50 ppm) because of competition with rapid metabolic processes (Barctta et al. 1969). In addition, it provides no information on the duration of exposure.
Thiodiglycolic acid is a major metabolite of vinyl chloride that is excreted in the urine. Measurement of thiodiglycolic acid in urine has been used to monitor workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride (Muller et al. 1979). However, measurement of this metabolite is of limited utility in estimating levels of exposure. The amount of thiodiglycolic acid in the urine will vary according to individual metabolic idiosyncracies. Also, metabolism of vinyl chloride to thiodiglycolic acid is a saturable process. Therefore, when exposure exceeds a certain level, the excretion of vinyl chloride as thiodiglycolic acid will plateau (Watanabe et al. 1976b). Furthermore, the rate of metabolism of vinyl chloride to thiodiglycolic acid may be influenced by the presence of liver disease, ethanol, or certain other substances such as barbiturates (Hefner et al. 1975b)(also see Section 2.6). Similar to the measurement of vinyl chloride in expired air, the measurement of thiodiglycolic acid must take place shortly after exposure, because of the rapidity of its excretion. The half-life for excretion of thiodiglycolic acid following an acute exposure is between 4 and 5 hours (Watanabe and Gehring 1976; Watanabe et al. 1978a, 1978b). Finally, excretion of thiodiglycolic acid is not unique to exposure to vinyl chloride. For example, thiodiglycolic acid may be excreted in the urine as the result of exposure to vinylidene chloride, ethylene oxide, or 2,2-dic.hloroethylether (Norpoth et al. 1986; Petit 1986). Also, infants delivered prematurely have been found to have high levels of urinary thiodiglycolic acid. A correlation was observed between the thiodiglycolic acid levels and the number of weeks prematurely that the infant was born. The origin of this thiodiglycolic acid is unknown, but is not believed to be associated with vinyl chloride exposure (Petit 1986).
The intermediary metabolites, 2-chloroethylene oxide and 2-chloroacetaldehyde, bind to macromolecules in the body. 2-Chloroethylene oxide is believed to bind primarily to DNA and RNA, whereas 2-chloro acetaldehyde binds primarily to proteins (Bolt 1986; Gucngerich and Watanabe 1979; Guengerich et al. 1979, 1981; Kappus et al. 1976; Watanabe et al. 1978a, 1978b). Two of the DNA adducts that are formed arc liN6~ctheno-adenosine and SJ^-ethcnocytidinc. Monoclonal antibodies for these DNA adducts have been
isolated and used in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to quantify these ethenoderivatives in biological samples (Eberle et al. 1989; Young and Santella 1988). Measurement of DNA adducts may be useful in estimating vinyl chloride exposure. However, this technique is of limited value for quantifying levels of exposure because formation of these products will be intlucnced by variability in vinyl chloride metabolism. Also, their persistence in tissues will be influenced by the rate of DNA metabolism and repair. Furthermore, the DNA adducts, for which monoclonal antibodies have been isolated, are formed as a result of exposure to vinyl bromide, ethyl carbamate, acrylonitrile, 2-cyanoethylene, and 1,2-dichloroethane (Bolt et al. 1986; Svensson and Osterman-Golkar 1986). For additional information on the kinetics of vinyl chloride see Section 2.3.
JO
***DFtAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
w
o
CO
~4
CD CO CD
R&S 037940
60
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
Exposure to vinyl chloride may also be estimated to some extent from the diagnosis of physiological effects known to be closely associated with it. For example, a syndrome known as vinyl chloride disease has been identified in workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride. This syndrome includes Raynaud's phenomenon, acroosteolysis of the distal phalanges of the fingers, and scleroderma-like changes in the hands and forearms (also see Section 2.2). Although this syndrome resembles systemic sclerosis, a differential diagnosis may be made based on the absence of antinuclear antibodies from the blood of those afflicted with vinyl chloride disease (Black et al. 1983, 1986). The occurrence of vinyl chloride disease in exposed populations is about 3% and susceptibility appears to be genetically related (Black et al. 1983, 1986). Therefore, absence of these symptoms would not eliminate the possibility of exposure, but their presence may be a good indicator of exposure.
Angiosarcoma of the liver has been identified in workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride. This type of tumor is extremely rare in the general population (Heath et al. 1975); therefore, its diagnosis may indicate vinyl chloride exposure. However, exposure to arsenicals and Thorotrast (thorium dioxide; formerly used in arteriography) also causes angiosarcoma of the liver; these substances must be eliminated as causative agents before correlating hepatic angiosarcoma with vinyl chloride exposure (Gedigke et al. 1975; Marsteller et al. 1975).
2.5.2 Biomarkers Used to Characterize Effects Caused by Vinyl Chloride
The realization that angiosarcoma of the liver is associated with vinyl chloride exposure prompted several investigators to try to identify assays that could be used to monitor those individuals considered to be at risk. Standard serum assays designed to detect the presence of hepatic enzymes in the blood were found to be of limited value in monitoring the progression of vinyl chloride-induced hepatic changes (Berk cl al. 1975; Liss et al. 1985; Vihko et al. 1984). This may be because of the relatively slight hepatic damage produced by vinyl chloride and the late development of necrotic areas in the disease process (Popper et al. 1981). In contrast, studies indicate that clearance type assays, which measure liver function, are more sensitive indicators of the hepatic damage resulting from vinyl chloride exposure. Two such assays are the indocyanine clearance test and measurement of serum bile acid levels (Berk et al. 1975; Liss et al. 1985; Vihko et al. 1984).
More sophisticated procedures such as computer-assisted tomography, ultrasonography, and "[Te] liver scanning have been used in patients believed to have vinyl chloride-induced liver damage, but none of these tests is sensitive or specific enough for screening for subclinica! asymptomatic hepatic injury (NIOSH 1986). Finally, liver biopsy may provide the most accurate identification of vinyl chloride-associated liver damage (Liss et al. 1985). This is because of the characteristic pattern of hepatic histopathology associated with vinyl chloride-induced damage (Popper et al. 1981). However, liver biopsy is an invasive procedure with attendant risks, and, therefore, may not be justified.
The symptoms and signs associated with vinyl chloride disease (Raynaud's phenomenon, scleroderma-like skin changes, and acroosteolysis) are similar to those observed in systemic sclerosis. Vinyl chloride disease may be differentiated from systemic sclerosis by the absence of antinuclear antibodies in the blood and association of vinyl chloride disease with vinyl chloride exposure (Black et al. 1983, 1986). Raynaud's phenomenon is an early symptom of vinyl chloride disease. However, cyanosis and blanching of fingers with exposure to cold may be the result of a number of other conditions such as connective tissue disorders, mechanical arterial obstruction, hyperviscosity of the blood, or exposure to drugs, chemicals, or vibrating tools (Freudiger et al. 1988). Thus, other potential causes must be eliminated before this syndrome can be used to identify vinyl chloride disease. The symptoms associated with vinyl chloride disease have been attributed to vinyl chloride-
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037941
51
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
induced changes in the microvasculature (Grainger cl al. 19S0). Capillary abnormalities in the hands may be detected using wide-field capillary microscopy and have been proposed to represent an early manifestation of vinyl chloride's effects (Marioq el al. 1976). Also, immunofluoresceni examination of biopsy material from the skin may be used to identify circulating immune complexes and their deposition on the vascular endothelium (Ward 1976).
Chromosomal aberrations found in lymphocytes may be indicative of the genotoxic effects of vinyl chloride (Anderson et al. 1980; Ducatman et al. 1975; Fucic et al. 1990; Funes-Cravioto et al. 1975; Hansteen cl al. 1978; Hrivnak et al. 1990; Kucerova et al. 1979; Purchase et al. 1978). However, any of a number of genotoxic substances can cause chromosomal aberrations. Also, de Jong ct al. (1988) have found that variability in the control population may obscure the observation of low-level chromosomal aberrations in persons exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride. The DNA adducts produced by the reactive intermediary metabolites of vinyl chloride, l,N6-ethenoadenosine and 3^T,-cthenocytidine, may be more specific indicators of vinyl chloride's genotoxic potential.
2.6 INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER CHEMICALS
A number of studies have been performed that examine the effect of agents intended to alter the metabolism of vinyl chloride on its toxicity. For example, the effects of phenobarbital pretreatment on vinyl chlorideinduced hepatotoxicity have been examined by Jaeger et al. (1974, 1977), Jcdrychowski ct al. (1985), and Reynolds et al. (1975a, 1975b). Pretreatment of rats with phenobarbital for 7 days prior to a 4-hour vinyl chloride exposure caused an increase in microsomal cytochrome P-450 activity (Reynolds ct al. 1975b) and enhanced hepatotoxicily (Jaeger ct al. 1974, 1977; Jedrychowski et al. 1985; Reynolds et al. 1975a, 1975b). In these studies, in the absence of the phenobarbital pretreatment, a single exposure to approximately 50,000 ppm had no detectable adverse effect on the livers of exposed rats. However, following phenobarbital pretreatment, 50,000 ppm of vinyl chloride produced increased serum activity of hepatic enzymes (Jaeger el al. 1977; Jedrychowski et al. 1985), areas of hepatic necrosis (Reynolds et al. 1975a), or both (Jaeger et al. 1974; Reynolds et al. 1975b).
Another agent known to increase mixed function oxidase activity, Aroclor 1254, was also tested for its ability to enhance vinyl chloride-induced hepatotoxicity (Conolly and Jaeger 1979; Conolly ct al. 1978; Jaeger ct al. 1977; Reynolds et al. 1975b). Pretreatment of rats with Aroclor 1254 for several days prior to exposure to vinyl chloride resulted in an increase in serum activity of hepatic enzymes (Conolly and Jaeger 1979; Conolly et al. 1978; Jaeger ct al. 1977; Reynolds ct al. 1975b) and areas of hepatic necrosis (Conolly ct al. 1978; Reynolds et al. 1975b).
Additional support for a role for mixed function oxidases in the enhanced toxicity of vinyl chloride was obtained using SKF525A, a mixed function oxidase inhibitor. If SKF525A was administered following phenobarbital pretreatment and before vinyl chloride exposure, it blocked the ability of phenobarbital pretreatment to enhance vinyl chloride-induced hepatotoxicity (Jaeger et al. 1977).
The role of glutathione conjugation in vinyl chloride-induced toxicity was also examined (Conolly and Jaeger 1979; Jaeger et al. 1977). The investigators hypothesized that depletion of glutathione might enhance the toxicity of vinyl chloride by preventing the excretion of toxic intermediary metabolites. However, diethylmaleate, an agent known to deplete hepatic glutathione levels, had no effect on the toxicity produced by vinyl chloride following pretreatment with either phenobarbital (Jaeger et al. 1977) or Aroclor 1254 (Conolly and Jaeger 1979). Trichloropropene oxide (TCPO), another agent known to deplete hepatic glutathione, caused enhancement of the hepatic toxicity produced by Aroclor 1254 prelreatment and vinyl
***DF?AFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037942
62
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
chloride exposure, but only when the animals had been fasted prior to vinyl chloride exposure (Conolly and Jaeger 1979). The study authors hypothesized that the enhancement of vinyl chloride toxicity was a result of the ability of TCPO to inhibit epoxide hydrasc rather than its ability to deplete glutathione levels.
Although the depletion of cellular glutathione levels did not appear to enhance vinyl chloride toxicity, treatment with cysteine, the rate-limiting precursor in hepatic glutathione synthesis, increased hepatic glutathione levels and provided partial protection against the toxic effects produced by Aroclor 1254 and vinyl chloride (Conolly and Jaeger 1979).
The effects of the interaction of ethanol with vinyl chloride on development were tested by John et al. (1977). In this study, animals were exposed Lo vinyl chloride in the presence and absence of 15% ethanol in the drinking water during pregnancy. Ethanol caused a decrease in maternal food consumption and maternal weight gain in mice, rats, and rabbits and enhanced incidence of skeletal abnormalities in mice, and to a lesser extent, in rats. Interpretation of these results is clouded bv the absence of an ethanol-exposed control group and the current recognition of the adverse effects of ethanol on pregnancy outcome.
In the experiment by Radike et al. (19S1). ethanol-consuming rats exposed to vinyl chloride for a year had an enhanced incidence of hepatic angiosarcomas, hepatomas, and lymphosarcomas, earlier onset of the tumors, and an enhanced death rate. The incidence ol vinyl chloride-induced angiosarcomas was potentiated by ethanol, whereas the increased incidences of hepatoma and lymphosarcomas by ethanol were additive in nature. The authors hypothesized that the effects of ethanol on the development of angiosarcomas was due to the ability of ethanol to inhibit the metabolism of vinyl chloride (Hefner et al. 1975b; Hultmark et al. 1979).
2.7 POPULATIONS THAT ARE UNUSUALLY SUSCEPTIBLE
A susceptible population will exhibit a different or enhanced response to vinyl chloride than will most persons exposed to the same level of vinyl chloride in the environment. Reasons include genetic make-up, developmental stage, health and nutritional status, and chemical exposure history. These parameters result in decreased function of the detoxification and excretory processes (mainly hepatic and renal) or the pre existing compromised function of target organs. For these reasons we expect the elderly with declining organ function and the youngest of the population with immature and developing organs will generally be more vulnerable to toxic substances than healthy adults. Populations who are at greater risk due to their unusually high exposure are discussed in Section 5.6, "Populations With Potentially High Exposure."
Data suggest that the following subsets of the human population may be unusually susceptible to the toxic effects of vinyl chloride: fetuses; infants; young children; people with liver disease, irregular heart rhythms, impaired peripheral circulation, or systemic sclerosis; people with exposure to organochlorine pesticides; and those consuming ethanol or barbiturates or taking Antabuse for alcoholism. Also, persons who possess the HLA-DR5, HLA-DR3, and B8 alleles may be at increased risk.
Vinyl chloride can cross the placenta and enter the blood of the fetus (Ungvary et al. 1978). Studies by Drew et al. (1983) and by Maltoni et al. (1981) have shown that animals exposed by inhalation prior to adolescence or during pregnancy may have a greater death rate and increased likelihood of developing cancer than adult animals exposed for similar periods. This may relate to the length of the induction period of hepatic angiosarcoma rather than to an increased susceptibility of the young, per sc.
"DRAR FOR PUBLIC COMMEN1 * *'
R&S 037943
63
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
Vinyl chloride is metabolized in the liver in a multistcp process. The intermediary metabolites of vinvl chloride, 2-chIoroethylene oxide and 2-chloroacetaldehvde, have been suggested to be responsible for some of the adverse effects produced by vinyl chloride. Thus, activation of the enzyme system responsible for production of these toxic metabolites would be expected to increase the toxicity of vinyl chloride exposures. 2-Chloroethylene oxide is formed by action of the mixed function oxidase system associated with cytochrome P-450. The barbiturate, phenobarbital, and the organochlorine pesticide, Aroclor 1254, increased mixed function oxidase activity and have been shown to greatly increase the hepatotoxicity of vinyl chloride (Conolly and Jaeger et al, 1979; Conolly et al. 1978; Jaeger et al. 1974, 1977; Jedrychowski et al. 1985; Reynolds ct al. 1975a, 1975b). Thus, persons taking barbiturates or who might be exposed to organochlorine pesticides that are known to induce microsomal enzymes (such as Aroclor 1254) would be expected to be at increased risk for developing vinyl chloride-induced hepatotoxicity.
An alternative pathway for vinyl chloride metabolism in the liver involves the enzymes, alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase. Vinyl chloride metabolized by these enzymes is not metabolized to 2-chloroethylene oxide, the toxic intermediary metabolite. Persons consuming sufficient amounts of alcohol inhibit this enzyme system (Hefner et al. 1975b; Hultmark et al. 1979). Therefore, these persons have increased levels of the toxic metabolite, 2-chloroethylene oxide. Radike et al. (1981) demonstrated that ethanol-consuming rats exposed to vinyl chloride had an increased incidence of cancer and an earlier death rate than animals exposed to vinyl chloride in the absence of ethanol.
Some persons consume the agent, Antabuse, to curb the desire for alcohol. In its role as a therapeutic agent, Antabuse blocks aldehyde dehydrogenase and causes a build-up of acetaldehyde, which is emetic, in the body when alcohol is consumed. If persons taking Antabuse are exposed to vinyl chloride, the alternative metabolic pathway for vinyl chloride metabolism will be blocked, causing more vinyl chloride Ur be metabolized to the toxic metabolite, 2-chloroethylene oxide. Thus, these persons may be at increased risk for hepatotoxicity, cancer, and early death.
Very high levels of vinyl chloride have been demonstrated to cause cardiac arrhythmias in dogs (Carr et al. 1949; Oster et al. 1946). Persons with a propensity to develop cardiac arrhythmias due to heart disease or damage may be at an increased risk of having heart beat irregularities when exposed to high concentrations of vinyl chloride.
Vinyl chloride has been shown to cause decreased circulation in the hands and fingers of some persons. Persons with impaired circulation due to some other cause such as connective tissue disorders, systemic sclerosis, hyperviscosity of the blood, or use of vibrating tools, may- experience more severe impairment of the circulation.
Work by Black et al. (1983, 1986) has shown that persons with the HLA allele HLA-DR5 may have an increased likelihood of developing vinyl chloride disease, and those with the alleles HLA-DR3 and B8 may have an increased severity of the disease.
2,8 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE
Section 104(i)(5) of CERCLA directs the Administrator of ATSDR (in consultation with the Administrator of EPA and agencies and programs of the Public Health Service) to assess whether adequate information on the health effects of vinyl chloride is available. Where adequate information is not available, ATSDR, in conjunction with the National Toxicology Program (NTP), is required to assure the initiation of a program
***DFLAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
64
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
of research designed to determine the health effects (and techniques for developing methods to determine such health effects) of vinyl chloride.
The following categories of possible data needs have been identified by a joint team of scientists from ATSDR, NTP, and EPA. They are defined as substance-specificinformational needs that if met would reduce or eliminate the uncertainties of human health assessment. This definition should not be interpreted to mean that all data needs discussed in this section must be filled. In the future, the identified data needs will be evaluated and prioritized, and a substance-specific research agenda will be proposed.
2.8.1 Existing Information on Health Effects of Vinyl Chloride
The existing data on health effects of inhalation, oral, and dermal exposure of humans and animals to vinyl chloride are summarized in Figure 2-4. The purpose of this figure is to illustrate the existing information concerning the health effects of vinyl chloride. Each dot in the figure indicates that one or more studies provide information associated with that particular effect. The dot does not imply anything about the quality of the study or studies. Gaps in this figure should not be interpreted as "data needs" information (i.e., data gaps that must necessarily be filled).
Virtually all of the literature regarding health effects in humans comes from studies of workers exposed to vinyl chloride during the production of PVC. Case reports and cohort studies describe some acute health effects and a wide range of long-term health effects. The predominant mode of exposure in these studies is via inhalation. These studies are limited by the lack of reliable data on individual exposure levels. No studies were found regarding the health effects of oral exposure. One case report examined the effects of dermal exposure to liquid vinyl chloride, but exposure by this route is not expected to contribute significantly to producing adverse health effects because of the limited absorption of vinyl chloride through the skin.
A large number of studies examining the health effects of inhaled vinyl chloride by animals were reviewed. As can be seen in Figure 2-4, no information is available on the acute systemic, immunologic, neurologic, developmental, reproductive, or genotoxic effects of exposure of animals by the oral route. No information is available regarding the health effects of exposure by the dermal route, but toxicokinetic studies indicate that this route is not an important means of exposure.
2.8.2 Identification of Data Needs
Acute-Duration Exposure. Populations in areas that contain hazardous waste sites may be exposed to vinyl chloride for brief periods. Exposure most likely would occur by inhalation, but relatively brief oral and dermal exposures are also possible. There are acute inhalation exposure data in humans and animals that indicate that the central nervous system is a major target organ of vinyl chloride toxicity. Symptoms of central nervous system depression ranging from dizziness and drowsiness to loss of consciousness have been observed in humans and animals as a result of brief exposure to very high levels of vinyl chloride. A threshold for central nervous system effects appears to be approximately 8,000 ppm. Extremely high concentrations of vinyl chloride produce death and respiratory irritation in humans and animals by the inhalation route. Based on studies in animals, the threshold for these effects appears to be in the range of 100,000-400,000 ppm. Extremely high concentrations of vinyl chloride produce cardiac arrhythmias in dogs exposed by the inhalation route. No threshold was reported for these effects; acute inhalation studies examining the incidence of cardiac irregularities at a variety of lower doses may be helpful in determining the threshold for this effect. Pharmacokinetic data indicate that similar end points might be expected if sufficiently high doses could be consumed bv the oral route. However, the solubility characteristics of vinyl
***DFtAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037944
55 2. HEALTH EFFECTS
FIGURE 2-4. Existing Information on Health Effects of Vinyl Chloride
Existing Studies
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT**'
R&S 037945
66
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
chloride in aqueous media (1,100-2,763 mg/L at 25C) (Cowfer and Magislro 1983; EPA 19S5b) indicate that achieving concentrations of vinyl chloride in excess of 5.000 ppm may be exircmclv difficult. Animal studies indicate that an adverse effect on the fetus is the most sensitive end point observed following brief inhalation exposures to vinyl chloride. Concentrations as low as 500 ppm were observed to cause adverse effects on developing fetuses. Studies examining the developmental, neurological, and systemic effects of the highest doses achievable in drinking water would be helpful for determining whether any effects would occur when vinyl chloride-contaminated groundwater or food products are consumed. One report described severe frostbite with second degree burns on the hands of a man resulting from the rapid evaporation of spilled liquid vinyl chloride. Toxicokinetic studies indicate that absorption of vinyl chloride vapor by the dermal route is insignificant; thus, studies examining the effects of acute-duration dermal exposure do not seem warranted.
A report was located regarding hepatic and respiratory effects observed 18 months following a single 1-hour inhalation exposure to vinyl chloride. However, limitations in the study diminished its reliability. Because of the implications of chronic effects from acute exposure, confirmation of these results in another study would be valuable.
Intermediate-Duration Exposure. No studies in humans specifically address intermediate-duration effects by any route. Most epidemiological studies of occupationally exposed persons have concentrated on persons who have been employed over several years. A study with reliable quantification of exposure levels that examined the effects experienced by viriyTclTlbnde workers in their 1st year of exposure would be helpful for predicting the effects that might be observed in populations exposed to hazardous waste sites for similar periods of time. There is a large database describing the effects of intermediate-duration inhalation exposures in animals. Animals exposed to vinyl chloride vapor for more than 2 weeks and less than a year have experienced effects on the liver, kidneys, lungs, and blood. Data were sufficient to determine an intermediate-duration inhalation MRL based on liver effects. However, the MRL was based on a LOAEL and a no-effect level in animals would be more suitable for MRL derivation. Extremely limited information was available regarding oral intermediate-duration effects. One chronic study presented interim sacrifice data that identified relative weight and histopathological changes in the liver. However, only a single-dose group was compared to controls, precluding determination of the dose-response of the effects observed. Thus, no MRL for oral intermediate-duration exposures could be determined. Additional studies examining the effects of oral exposure to vinyl chloride would be helpful for predicting effects that might be observed in humans consuming contaminated drinking water or foods over a similar period of time. As noted above, absorption of vinyl chloride vapor through the skin is not expected to be significant; thus, additional dermal exposure studies do not seem warranted.
Chronic-Duration Exposure and Cancer. A large number of studies of workers exposed to vinyl chloride have identified a wide range of target organs that may be affected by chronic-duration inhalation of vinyl chloride. The target organs include the liver, lungs, blood, immune system, cardiovascular system, skin, bones, nervous system, and the reproductive organs. These studies arc severely limited in that individual exposure levels have not been documented. In general, studies in animals provide supportive evidence for these effects and give indications of the exposure levels that may be associated with them.
No information was available regarding chronic-duration oral exposure in humans. However, studies in animals indicate that the liver, blood, and skin arc target organs for oral exposure to vinyl chloride. A chronic-duration oral MRL was calculated based on hepatic toxicity. This value was based on a LOAEL. A no-effect level in animals would be more suitable for MRL determination.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'"
R&S 037946
R&S 037947
67
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
No information was available regarding effects of chronic-duration dermal exposure in humans or animals, but absorption of vinyl chloride through the skin is not expected to be significant. Thus, dermal exposure studies do not seem warranted.
There is sufficient evidence to indicate that vinyl chloride is carcinogenic to humans and animals exposed via inhalation and in animals exposed via the oral route. The mechanism for carcinogenicity appears to be associated with the formation of reactive intermediates.
Genotoxicity. There are substantial data on both clastogenesis and DNA alkylation in humans exposed to vinyl chloride that indicate that this chemical acts as a potent genotoxicanl. These findings are supported by both animal studies and in vitro studies that show positive genotoxicity in a variety of microbial organisms, cultured cell lines, and isolated nucleic acid assays. There are also data that support the premise that it is the chlorocthylene oxide metabolite that is ultimately responsible for the direct action on the DNA, and that the mechanism involves alkylation and subsequent base-pair substitution. There arc studies that indicate that the clastogenic effects of vinyl chloride exposure in humans are reversible; additional studies on the fate of the alkylated DNA in humans after an exposure-free interval would be useful for predicting the mechanisms involved in the latency period for carcinogenesis. In addition, further work elucidating the genotoxic role of chloroacetaldehydc would be useful to explain the inconsistent findings of the effects of this metabolite on clastogenesis and the induction of carcinogenesis.
Reproductive Toxicity. Data from a number of epidemiological studies provide suggestive evidence of adverse effects on male and female reproductive function. Sexual impotence and decreased androgen levels were found in men exposed occupationally to vinyl chloride. In women exposed to vinyl chloride, menstrual disturbances and an increased incidence of elevated blood pressure and edema during pregnancy (preeclampsia) were observed. Although no reports of two-generation reproduction studies in animals were located, two studies examining a range of toxic effects in rats indicate that vinyl chloride is toxic to the testes. A two-generation reproduction study in animals would be helpful to assess whether adverse effects on the rate of conception could be correlated with damage to the male reproductive organs or whether disturbances in female menstrual activity could be verified. Also, animal models of preeclampsia could be tested to determine the mechanism by which vinyl chloride might cause this effect. Well-designed and well-conducted epidemiological studies examining such changes would also be helpful. No data are available on the possible reproductive toxicity resulting from oral exposure to vinyl chloride. Oral studies that use drinking water as the vehicle of administration would be particularly useful because contaminated groundwater is a potentially significant source of human exposure.
Developmental Toxicity. The epidemiological studies that have addressed developmental toxicity in offspring of humans who have been exposed to vinyl chloride are controversial. Although some of these purport to show a significant association between birth defects and vinyl chloride exposure, their design and analysis have been severely criticized. At this time, there are insufficient human data to provide a definitive answer to this question. A well-designed and well-conducted epidemiological study examining potential developmental end points would be helpful. There are data showing that vinyl chloride is a developmental toxicant in animals when exposure is by inhalation. Continuous low-level exposure appears to be the most toxic, but the studies that indicated this are flawed. Additional studies examining exposure to low levels of vinyl chloride throughout gestation would be helpful in settling this issue. This issue is particularly important because women living in the vicinity of hazardous waste sites have the potential to be exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride on a continuous basis. Also, studies in animals suggest that offspring exposed in utero may experience adverse effects after birth, although these studies are also flawed. Epidemiological studies designed to look at this end point would be helpful. There arc no data for oral exposures. Because of this
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037948
66
2. HEALTH EFFECTS
deficiency, oral studies examining a range of developmental end points would be useful in assessing the possibility of these effects in humans.
Immunotoxicity, Studies of workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride suggest that the immune system may be activated by vinyl chloride. Some data suggest that reactive intermediates may bind to proteins in the body, sufficiently altering them so that they become antigenic. In some instances, an autoimmune-like syndrome develops. The likelihood of this may be associated with the possession by individuals of specific genetic determinants (HLA alleles). Because of the low incidence of the autoimmune response in humans, the immunotoxicity may be best further studied in one of the strains of mice known to have a propensity for developing autoimmune diseases. Also, additional epidemiological studies examining the immune response of exposed populations may be helpful.
Neurotoxicity. A number of studies in humans and animals demonstrate that vinyl chloride is a central nervous system depressant following brief high-level inhalation exposures. Two studies in animals have also found degenerative effects in central nervous system tissue following chronic inhalation exposure to high levels of vinyl chloride. It is unknown whether these degenerative changes might also occur at lower doses; thus, a studv examining the effects of a range of lower doses would be informative. In addition, relatively recent studies present suggestive evidence that vinyl chloride may also produce peripheral nerve damage in humans exposed chronically via inhalation. Animal studies examining hislopathological and electrophysiological end points in peripheral nerves would be helpful for assessing what doses may be associated with this effect. Epidemiological studies examining exposed populations for subclinical peripheral nerve damage would be helpful. Oral exposure studies in animals would be beneficial for assessing the likelihood that populations exposed to contaminated water might develop symptoms of neurotoxicity.
Epidemiological and Human Dosimetry Studies. Virtually all of the data on effects in humans following inhalation exposure to vinyl chloride come from epidemiological studies of workers exposed during the production of PVC. These studies are limited by the absence of information on individual exposure levels. Also, in North America and Western Europe, only limited numbers of females have been studied.
For the most part, studies examining the carcinogenic potential of vinyl chloride have been adequate to distinguish an increased incidence of the rare cancer, angiosarcoma. However, many studies have used cohorts that are too small to detect smaller increases in other types of cancer (respiratory, central nervous system, lymphatic, or hematopoietic). Epidemiological studies designed to investigate reproductive and developmental effects of vinyl chloride have not been useful, in part because of a poor choice of statistical analysis, inadequate controls, or failure to take into account other chemical exposures. Additional cohort studies of these end points would be useful for examining these effects in humans.
Clastogenic effects have been used as a dosimeter for exposures to radioactive substances, and work has been done to use this approach for chemical exposures as well. More data on quantified exposures and wellcontrolled cytogenetic studies would be useful in developing a method for monitoring populations living near hazardous waste sites.
In addition, as noted above, well-designed and well-conducted epidemiological studies examining the incidence of peripheral neuropathies, developmental toxicity (birth defects, miscarriages, delayed prenatal development, postnatal hcpatotoxicity), reproductive toxicity (male infertility, menstrual irregularity, preeclampsia in pregnant women), and immune reactivity in exposed populations would also be helpful.
"*DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037949
69
2 HEALTH EFFECTS
Biomarkers of Exposure and Effect. Several potential biomarkers for exposure to vinyl chloride have been identified. Vinyl chloride measured in expired air is an adequate indicator ol recent, moderate- to high-level exposure. However, for low-level exposures or exposures that occur over 1-2 hours prior to the time of measurement, this biomarker is not useful. Thiodiglyeolie acid, a major urinary metabolite of vinyl chloride, has been used to monitor workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride. However, this biomarker is rapidly excreted, and, therefore, the period of its utility is limited. Also, thiodiglyeolie acid is not specific for vinyl chloride; it may also be produced as a result of the metabolism of 1,1 dichloroethene, ethylene oxide, or 2,2-dichlorocthylethcr,
The DNA adducts lJxl6-ethenoadenosine and 31NJ-ethenocytidinc,' may be used to indicate vinyl chloride exposure, although studies correlating the levels of these adducts with exposure levels are still lacking. These products remain in the body longer than free vinyl chloride or thiodiglyeolie acid, thereby increasing the period after exposure that a potential exposure may be detected. However, the presence of these adducts cannot indicate how long it has been since exposure occurred. In addition, these adducts are formed as the result of binding of the intermediary metabolites with nucleic acids, and other compounds producing the same intermediary metabolites will also produce these adducts. For example, these adducts have been identified as a result of exposure to vinyl bromide, cihvl carbamate, acrylonitrile, 2-cvanoethylcne, and 1,2-dichloroethane. Studies attempting to identify a metabolite more specific to vinyl chloride may be helpful in developing a biomarker that may be used to facilitate future medical surveillance, which can lead to early detection and possible treatment.
The central nervous system depression associated with brief high-level exposures is easily determined by observation. The hepatic changes that may develop during longer-term exposures are difficult to detect by standard biochemical liver function tests. In contrast, tests of clearance such as the indocyanine clearance test or measurement of serum bile acid levels are more specific and sensitive indicators of vinyl chlorideinduced liver damage. Angiosarcoma of the liver is a rare tumor type that has been shown to result from vinyl chloride exposure. However, other agents are known to cause angiosarcoma of the liver, such as arsenic and Thorotrast. The cyanosis and blanching of the fingers in response to exposure to the cold may be an early indicator for the development of vinyl chloride disease. However, other conditions also known to cause these symptoms include connective tissue disorders, mechanical arterial obstruction, hyperviscosity of the blood, and exposure to drugs, chemicals, or vibrating tools. Finally, measurement of chromosomal aberrations may indicate the genotoxic effects of vinyi chloride. However, these aberrations do not specifically indicate vinyl chloride-induced damage. Also, DNA adducts may signal the potential to develop genotoxic effecLs. Further work identifying the correlation between the adducts and genotoxic effects would be useful.
Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion. There are few data on humans for all toxicokinetic parameters across all exposure routes. Additional studies examining the toxicokinetics of inhalation and oral exposure in humans would be beneficial. There are a number of animal studies describing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of vinyl chloride administered via the oral and inhalation routes, but few describing the toxicokinetics of vinyl chloride administered via the dermal route. One study in rats found an extremely limited absorption of vinyl chloride vapor across the skin. If there is negligible absorption resulting from dermal exposure, then additional studies examining toxicokinetics from dermal exposures are not warranted; another study verifying the limited nature of dermal absorption, however, would be reassuring. Furthermore, the intermediary metabolites of vinyl chloride appear to be responsible for many of the toxic effects observed. Therefore, information regarding differences in the metabolic pattern according to sex, age, nutritional status, and species and correlations to differences in health effects would also be useful.
`"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037950
70 2. HEALTH EFFECTS Comparative Toxicokinetics. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion have been studied in animals, but information on toxicokinetics in humans is extremely limited. Human and animal data indicate that similar target organs (liver, central nervous system) for the toxic effects of vinyl chloride exist, suggesting some similarities of kinetics. Limited information is available regarding interspecies differences in kinetics. Most toxicokinetic studies have been conducted using rats, but one study in primates indicates that metabolism may saturate at lower concentrations in primates than rats. This may suggest a lower saturation point in humans also. Additional studies measuring the toxicokinetics in humans could provide valuable data as the roles of individual metabolites in the disease processes associated with vinyl chloride exposure are elucidated. 2.8.3 On-going Studies On-going studies regarding the health effects of vinyl chloride were reported in the Federal Research in Progress File (FEDR1P 1990) database and SCISearch (1990). Tabic 2-5 presents a summary of on-going studies that address the health effects of vinyl chloride.
'"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT**'
71 2. HEALTH EFFECTS
TABLE 2-5. On-going Studies on Vinyl Chloride3
Investigator
Affiliation
Research description
Sponsor
D. Brown M. Humayun H. Jiangl B, Singer J. Taylor R. Thurman
NIOSH, Cincinnati. Ohio
University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
University of Maryland
University of California. Lawrence Berkeley Lab
NIEHS
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Updating epidemiologic studies on vinyl chloride
Mechanisms of mutagenesis by cyclic DNA adducts in rabbits
Effects of vinvl chloride on pregnancy, parturition and fetal development among female workers
Biochemical mechanisms of vinyl chloride carcinogenesis
Molecular epidemiology of cancer susceptibility and oncogene activation
Mechanisms of hepatotoxicitybv environmental pollutants
NIOSH NCI NA NCI NIEHS NIEHS
Sources: FEDRIP (1990) and SCIsearch (1990)
DNA = deoxyribonucleic acid; NA = not available; NCI -- National Cancer Institute; NIEHS = National Institute of Environmental Health Science; NIOSH = National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
LS6*e o
'DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037952
73
3. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION
3.1 CHEMICAL IDENTITY Information regarding the chemical identity of vinyl chloride is located in Table 3-1. This information includes synonyms, chemical formula and structure, and identification numbers. 3.2 PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES Information regarding the physical and chemical properties of vinyl chloride is located in Table 3-2.
`"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"*
R&S 037953
74 3. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION
TABLE 3-1. Chemical Identity of Vinyl Chloride
Characteristic
Information
Reference
Chemical name Synonym(s)
Registered trade name(s) Chemical formula Chemical structure
Identification numbers CAS registry NIOSH RTECS EPA hazardous waste OHM/TADS DOT/UN/NA/IMCO shipping HSDB NCI
Vinyl chloride
Chloroethene; chloroethylene; 1-chloroethylene; ethylene monochloride; monochloroethene; monochloroethylene; VC; VCM; vinyl chloride monomer
No data
CzH3C1
Cl H
Vo7
h' Nh
75-01-4 KU9625000 U043 7216947 1086 169 No data
HSDB 1990 Fire 1986; HSDB 1990
HSDB 1990
HSDB 1990 HSDB 1990 HSDB 1990 HSDB 1990 HSDB 1990 HSDB 1990
CAS = Chemical Abstracts Services; DOT/UN/NA/IMCO = Department of Transportation/United Nations/North America/Intemational Maritime Dangerous Goods Code; EPA = Environmental Protection Agency; HSDB = Hazardous Substances Data Bank; NCI = National Cancer Institute; NIOSH = National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; OHM/TADS = Oil and Hazardous Materials/Technical Assistance Data System; RTECS = Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical
Substances
"DRAFT FOR PUBUC COMMENT***
R&S 037954
75 3. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION
TABLE 3-2. Physical and Chemical Properties of Vinyl Chloride
Property
Molecular weight Color Physical state Melting point Boiling point Density:
at -14.2'C at 15C at 20C Vapor density Odor Odor threshold: Water Air Solubility: Water at 25C
Organic solvent(s)
Partition coefficients: ^8 Kow
Vapor pressure: at 2CPC at 258C
Henry's law constant: at 1(70
Autoignition temperature Flashpoint Flammability limits Conversion factors
ppm to mg/m3 in air mg/m3 to ppm in air Explosive limits
vol = volume
Information
62.5 Colorless Gas -153.SC -13.4C
0.969 g/cm3 0.9195 g/cm3 0.9106 g/cm3 2.16 Sweet
3.4 ppm 3,000 ppm
2,763 mg/L 1,100 mg/L Soluble in hydrocarbons,
oil, alcohol, chlorinated solvents, and most common organic liquids
1.36 1.99
2,530 mmHg 2,660 mmHg
1.2 (atm-m3)/mol 472'C -77.75'C (open cup) 3.6-33 vol %
1 ppm = 2.60 mg/m3 1 mg/m3 = 0.39 ppm 4-22 vol %
Reference
Sax and Lewis 1989 Cowfer and Magistro 1983 Cowfer and Magistro 1983 Cowfer and Magistro 1983 Cowfer and Magistro 1983
Cowfer and Magistro 1983 Sax and Lewis 1989 NIOSH 1986 Fire 1986 HSDB 1990
Amoore and Hautula 1983 Amoore and Hautula 1983
EPA 1985b Cowfer and Magistro 1983 Cowfer and Magistro 1983
NIOSH 1986 Lyman et al. 1982
IARC 1979 Sax and Lewis 1989
EPA 1985b Cowfer and Magistro 1983 Cowfer and Magistro 1983 NIOSH 1986
NIOSH 1986 NIOSH 1986 NIOSH 1986
"DRAFT FOR PUBUC COMMENT***
77
4. PRODUCTION, IMPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL
4.1 PRODUCTION
In 198$, production of vinyl chloride in the United States was 9.1 billion pounds (CMR 1989), while production in 1986 was 8.4 billion pounds (USITC 1987). The estimated U.S. production level for 1993 is 11.0 billion pounds. Between 1979 and 1988, the vinyl chloride manufacturing industry in the United States grew by 2.1% per year. From the present time to 1993, U.S. vinyl chloride production is expected to increase by 3-4% per year {CMR 1989). The estimated U.S. capacity for vinyl chloride production in 1988 was 9.7 billion pounds, indicating that the U.S. vinyl chloride industry was operating at approximately 94% of its capacity (CMR 1989). In 1989, the estimated U.S. capacity was 10.4 billion pounds (SRI 1990).
Vinyl chloride is currently produced in the United States by 9 companies at 11 facilities, which are as follows (SRI 1990a, 1990b): BF Goodrich Company in LaPorte, Texas; Borden Chemicals and Plastics in Geismar, Louisiana; Dow Chemical in Oyster Creek, Texas and in Plaqucmine, Louisiana; Formosa Plastics Corporation in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and in Point Comfort, Texas; Georgia Gulf Corporation in Plaqueminc, Louisiana; Occidental Petroleum Corporation in Deer Park, Texas; PPG Industries in Lake Charles, Louisiana; Vista Chemical Company in Lake Charles, Louisiana; and Westlake Monomers Corporation in Calvert City, Kentucky. Table 4-1 summarizes the facilities in the United States that manufacture or process vinyl chloride. This information was obtained from the 1988 Toxic Chemical Release Inventory (TRI88), and it summarizes the reported release data for 1988 (TRI88 1990). Table 4-1 also lists the maximum amounts of vinyl chloride that are present at these sites and the end uses of the vinyl chloride.
The commercial production of vinyl chloride began in the 1930s by reacting hydrogen chloride with acetylene. Currently, vinyl chloride is produced commercially by the chlorination of ethylene through one of two processes, direct chlorination or oxychlorination. Direct chlorination reacts ethylene with chlorine to produce 1,2-dichloroethane. Similarly, oxychlorination produces 1,2-dichloroethane, but this is accomplished by reacting ethylene with dry hydrogen chloride and oxygen. After both processes, the 1,2-dichloroethane is subjected to high pressures (2.5-3.0 megapascals) and temperatures (550-550C). This causes the 1,2-dichloroethane to undergo pyrolysis, or thermal cracking, which forms the vinyl chloride monomer and hydrogen chloride. The vinyl chloride monomer is then isolated (Cowfer and Magistro 1985). The technical grade product is available in 99.9% purity (HSDB 1990). Recent developments in vinyl chloride production include efforts to minimize by-product formation in 1,2-dichloroethane pyrolysis (Cowfer and Magistro 1985).
4.2 IMPORT/EXPORT
Imports of vinyl chloride were 227 million pounds in 1988 (CMR 1989) and 200 million pounds in 1987 (C&EN 1987). Data describing import trends prior to 1987 were not located. Exports of vinyl chloride were 637 million pounds'in 1988 (CMR 1989) and 896 million pounds in 1985 (CMR 1986b). In 1979, vinyl chloride exports were at an all-time high of 1.1 billion pounds (CMR 1981). Since this lime, export volumes have been gradually declining (CMR 1981, 1983, 1989).
4.3 USE
Vinyl chloride is an important industrial chemical because of its wide variety of end-use products and the low cost of producing polymers from it. Furthermore, PVC is one of the most efficient construction materials available when analyzed on an energy-equivalent basis (Cowfer and Magistro 1985). Major end-use products include PVC products, such as automotive parts and accessories, furniture, packaging materials, pipes, wall coverings, and wire coatings, and vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymer products, such as films and resins (Cowfer and Magistro 1985; Eveleth et al. 1990).
`"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037955
9S6ZC0 S^d
PRODUCTION, IMPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
TABLE 4-1. Facilities That Manufacture or Process Vinyl Chloride*
Facil i ty
Kirkhill Rubber Co.
Keysor-Century Corp. Union Carbide Corp. Georgia Gulf Corp. C. P. C. Wilmington Assembly Plant Air Products & Chemicals Inc. Union Carbide Corp. B. F. Goodrich
Borden Inc. Pkg. & Indst. Products Vulcan Chemicals Air Products & Chemicals Inc. Westlake Monomers Corporation B. F. Goodrich Louisville Plant Occidental Chemical Corp. Formosa Plastics Corp. Louisiana Borden Chemical & Plastics
Union Carbide-Indus. Chemicals B. F. Goodrich Co. Dow Chemical Co, Ptaquemine
Louisiana Georgia Gulf Corp.
Certainteed Corp. PPG Industries Inc.
Vista Chemical Co. Lake Charles Chemical Plant
Dow Chemical Co. Michigan Div. Rival Manufacturing Co. Mobay Corp. - Ag. Chem. Div. Variform Inc.
Vista Polymers Colloids Inc. Walsh Div. Occidental Chemical Corp. Occidental Chemical Corp. B. F. Goodrich Co.-Vinyl Div. Union Carbide Corp.
Location6
Brea, CA
Saugus, CA Torrance, CA Delaware City, DE Wilmington, DE Pace, FL Tucker, GA Henry, IL
III)opolis, IL Uichita, KS Calvert City, KY Calvert City, KY Louisville, KY Addis, LA Baton Rouge, LA Geismar, LA
Hahnvilie, LA Plaquemine, LA Ptaquemine, LA
Ptaquemine, LA
Sulphur, LA Westlake, LA
West lake, LA
Midland, MI Clinton, MO Kansas City, MO Kearney, MO
Aberdeen, MS Gastonia, NC Burlington, KJ Burlington, NJ Pedricktown, NJ Somerset, NJ
Range of maximum amounts on site in pounds
10,000-99,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 100,000-999,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 10,000-99,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 100,000-999,999
1,000,000-9,999,999
10,000,GOO-49,999,999 1,000-9,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 10,000,000-49,999,999
100,000-999,999 1,000,000-9,999,999 1,000,000-9,999,999 10,000,000-49,999,999
> 1 billion 100,000-999,999 10,000,000-49,999,999
1,000,000-9,999,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 50,000,000-99,999,999
10,000,000-49,999,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 10,000-99,999
100,000-999,999 1,000,000-9,999,999
10,000,000-49,999,999 10,000-99,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 1,000,000-9,999,999 1,000,000-9,999,999
10,000-99,999
Activities and uses
Import; as a formulation component; as a processing aid
As a reactant As a reactant As a reactant As a manufacturing aid As a reactant As a reactant As a reactant; as an article
component As a reactant As a reactant As a reactant Produce; for sale/distribution As a reactant As a reactant Produce; for sale/distribution Produce; for sale/distribution; as a
reactant As a byproduct As a reactant Produce; for sale/distribution
Produce; for on-site use/processing; for sale/distribution; as a reactant
As a reactant Produce; for sate/distribution; as o
byproduct; as an impurity; as a reactant Produce; for sale/distribution
As a reactant As an article component As a reactant Import; for on-site use/processing;
as an article component As a reactant As a reactant As a reactant As a reactant As a reactant As a reactant
PRODUCTION. IMPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL 'DRAFT FOR PUBUC COMMENT**
TABLE 4-1 (Continued)
Facitity
Location'
Eastman Wire & Cable Co. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. General Electric Co. Silicone
Products National latex Products Co.
Vygen Corp. B. F. Goodrich Avon Lake Facilities Napco Plastics Co.
Winslow, NJ Niagara Falls, NT Waterford, NT
Ashland, OH
Ashtabula, OH Avon Lake, OH Napoleon, OH
Vista Polymers Div. Of Vista Chemical Co.
Occidental Chemical Corp. B. F. Goodrich Co. Geon Vinyl Div.
Deer Park Plan Occidental Chemical Corp. Deer Park -
VCH Dow Chemical Co.
Oklahoma City, Ok
Pottstown, PA Deer Park, TX
Deer Park, TX
Freeport, TX
Shintech Inc.
Union Carbide Corp. 8. F. Goodrich Chemical Corporation Occidental Chemical Corp. Formosa Plastics Corp. Tx
Freeport, TX
Garland, TX La Porte, TX Pasadena, TX Point Comfort, TX
'Derived from SRI (1990a, 1990b) and TRI88 (1990) "Post office state abbreviations used
Range of maximum amounts on site in pounds
10,000-99,999 100,000-999,999 100,000-999,999
1,000-9,999
100,000-999,999 1,000,000-9,999,999
0-99
1,000,000-9,999,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 1,000,000-9,999,999
10,000,000-49,999,999
10,000,000-49,999,999
10,000,000-49,999,999
100,000-999,999 10,000,000-49,999,999
1,000,000-9,999,999 1,000,000-9,999,999
Activities and uses
As an article component As a reactant As a reactant
As a formulation component; as a manufacturing aid
As a reactant As a reactant Import; for on-site use/processing;
as a formulation component; as an article component As a reactant
As a reactant As a reactant
Produce; for sale/distribution
Produce; for on-site use/processing; as a byproduct; as a reactant; in ancillary or other uses
Import; for on-site use/processing; as a reactant
As a reactant Produce; for sale/distribution As a reactant Produce; import; for on-site
use/processing; as a reactant
^S6Z0O SSH
80 4. PRODUCTION, IMPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL
In 1988, the pattern of use for vinyl chloride produced in the United States was as follows: PVC production, 91%; exports, 7%; and other, 2% (CMR 1989). This use pattern indicates that vinyl chloride monomer is almost exclusively used in the United States by the plastics industry. Vinyl chloride has been used in the past as a refrigerant, as a extraction solvent for heat-sensitive materials, and in the production of chloroacetaldhyde and methyl chloroform (LARC 1979). In the United States, limited quantities of vinyl chloride were used as an aerosol propellant and as an ingredient of drug and cosmetic products; however, these practices were banned by the EPA in 1974 (LARC 1979; HSDB 1990). 4.4 DISPOSAL Under the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), those who generate, transport, treat, store, or dispose of vinyl chloride are required to comply with handling and report/record keeping regulations (EPA 1981b). The recommended method of disposal is total destruction by incineration. The temperature of the incinerator must be sufficient to ensure the complete combustion of the vinyl chloride in order to prevent the formation of phosgene. The recommended temperature range for incineration is 450-1,600C, with residence times of seconds for gases and liquids, and hours for solids (HSDB 1990). If in solution, the vinyl chloride product may need to be adsorbed onto a combustible materia! prior to incineration. Recommended materials include vermiculite, sawdust, or a sand-soda ash mixture (90/10) .covered with wood and paper (OHM/TADS 1985). The vinyl chloride can also be dissolved in a flammable solvent prior to incineration. An acid scrubber should be used in conjunction with the incinerator in order to remove any hydrogen chloride that is produced by the combustion process (HSDB 1990; OHM/TADS 1985). Aqueous by-product solutions from the production of vinyl chloride are usually steam-stripped to remove volatile organic compounds, neutralized, and then treated in an activated sludge system to remove nonvolatile organic compounds remaining in the waste water (Cowfcr and Magistro 1983). A final method of disposal of vinyl chloride is the chemical destruction of small quantities similar to amounts used in experimental laboratories. The recommended technique is to add the vinyl chloride to sodium dichromatc in concentrated sulfuric acid, and to allow this solution to react for 1-2 days (HSDB 1990).
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037958
R&S 037959
81
5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE
5.1 OVERVIEW
Vinyl chloride is used almost exclusively in the United States by the plastics industry for the production of PVC and several copolymers. Anthropogenic sources are responsible for all of the vinyl chloride found in the environment. Most of the vinyl chloride released to the environment is eventually transported to the atmosphere, whereas lesser amounts are transported to groundwater. Vinyl chloride has been detected in the ambient air in the vicinity of vinyl chloride and PVC manufacturing plants and hazardous waste sites. The compound has also leached into groundwater from spills, landfills, and industrial sources. Vinyl chloride has been identified at 245 of the 1,300 NPL hazardous waste sites that have been proposed for inclusion on the NPL (MIS 1990). The frequency of these sites within the United States can be seen in Figure 5.1.
Effluents and emissions from vinyl chloride and PVC manufacturers arc responsible for most of vinyl chloride released to the environment. When released to the atmosphere, vinyl chloride is expected to be removed by reaction with photochemically generated hydroxyl radicals (half-life = 1-2 days). Reaction products include hydrochloric acid, formaldehyde, formyl chloride, acetylene, chloroacetaldehyde, chloroacetylchloranil, and chlorocthylene. In photochemical smog, the half-life of vinyl chloride is reduced to a few hours. When released to water, volatilization is expected to be the primary fate process. In waters containing photosensitizers, such as humic materials, sensitized photodegradation may also be important. When released to soil, vinyl chloride will either volatilize rapidly from soil surfaces or leach readily through soil, ultimately entering groundwater.
Segments of the general population living in the vicinity of emission sources are exposed to vinyl chloride by inhalation of contaminated air. Average daily intake of vinyl chloride by inhalation for these people ranges from trace amounts to 2,100 /ig/day. The average daily intake of vinyl chloride by inhalation is expected to be essentially zero for the remainder of the population. The majority of the general population is not expected to be exposed to vinyl chloride through ingestion of drinking water. The average daily intake of vinyl chloride through diet is predicted to be essentially zero. Workers, particularly in plastic industries, arc exposed to vinyl chloride mainly by inhalation, with some absorption through the skin possible. The National Occupational Exposure Survey, conducted by NIOSH from 1981 to 1983, estimated that 81,314 workers employed at 3,711 plant sites were potentially exposed to vinyl chloride (NOES 1990).
5.2 RELEASES TO THE ENVIRONMENT
5.2.1 Air
The major source of vinyl chloride releases to the environment is believed to be emissions and effluents from plastic industries, primarily vinyl chloride and PVC manufacturers. Worldwide emissions of vinyl chloride into the atmosphere during 1982 totalled approximately 400 million pounds (Hartmans et al. 1985). Another emission source includes tobacco smoke which has been found to contain 5.6-28 ng vinyl chloride per cigarette (Hoffman et al. 1976). According to TRI88, an estimated total of at least 1,374,153 pounds of vinyl chloride were released to air in the United States in 1988 from the manufacturing and processing facilities listed in Table 5-1 (SRI 1990a, 1990b; TRI88 1990). The TRI88 data should be used with caution since only certain types of facilities are required to report.
5.2.2 Water
Vinyl chloride released in waste water from the plastics industries is expected to volatilize fairly rapidly (on the order of hours to days) into the atmosphere. Another source of release to groundwater is the anaerobic
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
O96Z0O SSU
FIGURE 5-1. FREQUENCY OF NPL SITES WITH VINYL CHLORIDE CONTAMINATION *
MDerived from MIS 1990
TABLE 5-1. Releases to the Environment from Facilities That Manufacture or Process Vinyl Chloride'
POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURI DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Facility
Locat i on11
KirkhiU Rubber Co. Keysor-Century Corp. Union Carbide Corp. Georgia Gulf Corp. C-P-C WiLmington
Assembly Plant Air Products & Chemicals
Brea, CA Saugus, CA Torrance, CA Delaware City, DE Wilmington, DE
Pace, FL
Union Carbide Corp. 8. F. Goodrich Borden Inc. Pkg. &
Indst. Products Vulcan Chemicals Air Products S Chemicals
Inc. Westlake Monomers Corp. B. F. Goodrich Louisville
Plant Occidental Chemical
Corp. Formosa Plastics Corp.
Louisiana Borden Chemical &
Plastics Union Carbide-Indus.
Chemicals B. F. Goodrich Co.
Dow Chemical Co. Plaquemine Louisiana
Georgia Gulf Corp. Certainteed Corp. PPG Industries Inc. Vista Chemical Co. Lake
Charles Chemical Plant Dow Chemical Co.
Michigan Div. Rival Manufacturing Co.
Tucker, GA Henry, !L Iltiopolis, IL
Wichita, KS Calvert City, KY
Calvert City, KY Louisville, KY
Addis, LA
Baton Rouge, LA
Geismar, LA
Hahnville, LA
Plaquemine, LA Plaquemine, LA
Plaquemine, LA Sulphur, LA Westlake, LA Westlake, LA
Midland, Ml
Clinton, MO
Air
13 890
32 91,453 13,000
12,000
29 33,100 89,678
115 28,000
85,784 9,200
31,468
28,192
39,068
37
18,900 7,100
18,600 24,500
2,600 15,500
800
0
Reported amounts released in pounds
Underground injection
Water
00 00 00 01 00
00
00 00 0 390
00 00
0 16 00
00
09
53 0
00
00 00
00 02 0 55 0 250
00
00
Land
Total environment
POTW transfer
0 13 0 890 0 32 0 91,454 0 13,000
250 12,250
0 29 0 33,100 0 90,068
0 115 0 28,000
0 85,800 0 9,200
0 31,468
0 28,201
0 39,121
0 37
0 18,900 0 7,100
0 18,600 0 24,502 0 2,655 0 15.750
0 800
00
0 160
0 0 250
0
0 0 0
0 0
0 14
0
0
0
0
0 0
0 0 0 0
0
0
Of f-s i te waste
transfer
0 0 0 2,188 250
0
0 580 1,155
0 0
0 400
5,001
n
0
0
6 0
0 0 23 250
3
0
1.96Z.E0 S'SU
TABLE 5-1 (Continued)
296Z.S0 S'Sy
Location"
Reported amounts released in pounds
Underground
Air
injection
Water
Land
Total environment1
P01W transfer
Of f -si t( waste
transfer
POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*
Hobay Corp. - Ag. Chem. Di v.
Variform Inc. Vista Polymers Colloids Inc. Walsh Oiv. Occidental Chemical
Corp. Occidental Chemical
Corp. B. F. Goodrich Co. Vinyl
Di v.
Union Carbide Corp. Eastman Wire & Cable Co. Goodyear Tire & Rubber
Co. General Electric Co.
Silicone Products National Latex Products
Co. Vygen Corp. B. F. Goodrich Avon Lake
Facilities Kapco Plastics Co. Vista Polymers Div. Of
Vista Chemical Co. Occidental Chemical
Corp. B. F. Goodrich Co. Geon
Vinyl Div. Deer Park Plan Occidental Chemical Corp. Deer Park - VCM Dow Chemical Co. Shintech Inc. Union Carbide Corp.
Kansas City, HO
Kearney, HO Aberdeen, HS Gastonia, NC Burlington, NJ
Burlington, NJ
Pedricktown, NJ
Somerset, NJ Winslow, NJ Niagara Falls, NY
Waterford, NY
Ashland, OH
Ashtabula, OH Avon Lake, OH
Napoleon, OH Oklahoma City, OK
Pottstown, PA
Deer Park, TX
Deer Park, TX
Freeport, TX Freeport, TX Garland, TX
1,280
0 26,562
500 9,300
27,700
72,000
14 0 89,600
272
0
(.2,845 40,000
0 65,670
214,810
17,400
25,000
2,280 85,550
311
0 0 0 1,280 0 0
00 00 00 0 16
00 0 76,562 0 500 0 9,316
00 00 0 250 0 70
0 3 0 27,703 0 100
0 8 0 72,008 0 100
000
14 0 0
00 0
000
0
0
0
89,600
1,080
780
0 0 0 272 0 0
000
0 0 .0
0 750 00
0 43,595
0
0
40,000
13,000
0 750
00 0
0 00
0
0
0 65,670
90
0
0 0 1,930 216,740 2,510 0
0 0 0 17,400 0 620,551
00
00 0 250 00
0 25,000
0 2,280 0 85,800 0 311
0 30
00 00 00
TABLE 5-1 (Continued)
Facility
Location"
Reported omounts released in pounds
Underground
Air
injection
Uater
Land
Total envirornnent`
POTU transfer
Off-site waste
transfer
Laporte Chemical Corp. Occidental Chemical
Corp. Formosa Plastics Corp.
TX
La Porte, TX P.'.radena, TX
Point Comfort, TX
3,000 37,000
13,000
00 0 18
0 250
0 3,000 0 37,018
0 13,250
Totals
1374153
53
2018
2180
1378404
Derived from SRI (1990a, 1990b) and TRI88 (1990) "Post office state abbreviations used `The sum of all releases of the chemical to air, land, water, and underground injection welIs by a given facility
POTU = publicly owned treatment works
00 0 21,300
00
17104
653787
POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE DRAFT FOR PUBLIC
S96ZS0 SSH
R&S 037964
86
5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE
reductive dehalogenation of 1,1,2-trichloroethyiene, tetrachloroethylene, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane to vinyl chloride at hazardous waste sites (Smith and Dragun 1984). Vinyl chloride leaches into groundwater from spills, landfills, and industrial sources (e.g., plastics industry). According to data collected from the analysis of leachates and monitoring wells at sites where groundwater was contaminated by municipal solid waste landfill leachate, vinyl chloride was present in both the leachates and groundwater samples (Sabel and Clark 1984).
Vinyl chloride has been detected in groundwater samples taken at an estimated 3% of the NPL hazardous waste sites included in EPA's Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) at a geometric mean concentration of 0.102 ppm for the positive samples (CLPSD 1989). The compound was not listed in the CLP Statistical Database of chemicals detected in surface water samples collected at NPL sites. Note that information used from the CLP Statistical Database includes data from NPL sites only. According to TRI88, an estimated total of at least 2,018 pounds of vinyl chloride were released to water in the United States in 1988 from the manufacturing and processing facilities listed in Table 5-1 (SRI 1990a, 1990b; TR188 1990). The TRI88 data should be used with caution since only certain types of facilities are required to report.
5.2.3 Soil
Vinyl chloride can be released into the soil from leachates at hazardous waste sites. Vinyl chloride was not listed in the EPA CLP Statistical Database of chemicals detected in soil samples taken at NPL sites (CLPSD 1989). According to TRI88, an estimated total of at least 2,180 pounds of vinyl chloride were released to land in the United States in 1988 the from the manufacturing and processing facilities listed in Table 5-1 (SRI 1990a, 1990b; TRI8S 1990). The TR1S8 data should be used with caution since only certain types of facilities are required to report.
5.3 ENVIRONMENTAL FATE
5.3.1 Transport and Partitioning
Based on a vapor pressure of 2,660 mmHg at 25C, essentially all vinvl chloride in the atmosphere is expected to exist in vapor form (Eisenreich ct al. 1981; Verschueren 1983). Consequently, removal from the atmosphere by dry deposition is not expected to be an important fate process.
The primary removal process for vinyl chloride from natural water systems is volatilization into the atmosphere. Henry's law constant value of 1.2 alm-m3/mol at 10C indicates that vinyl chloride should partition rapidly to the atmosphere. The half-life for vinyl chloride volatilization from a typical pond, river, and lake has been estimated to be 43.3, 8.7, and 34.7 hours, respectively. These values are based on an experimentally determined reaeration rate ratio of approximately 2 and assumed oxygen reaeration rates of 0.008, 0.04, and 0.01 per hour for a typical pond, river, and lake, respectively (EPA 1982a). Predicted halflives should be considered rough estimates since the presence of various salts in natural water systems may affect the volatility of vinyl chloride significantly (Callahan el al. 1979). Many salts have the ability to form complexes with vinyl chloride and can increase its water solubility; therefore, the presence of salts in natural waters may significantly influence the amount of vinyl chloride remaining in the water (Callahan ct al. 1979).
The relatively high vapor pressure of vinyl chloride indicates that the compound should volatilize quite rapidly from dry soil surfaces (Verschueren 1983). The effective half-life (due to volatilization) of vinyl chloride placed 10 cm deep in dry soil is predicted to be 12 hours (Jury et al. 1984). Vinyl chloride is soluble in
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"*
87 5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE
water and thus can leach through the soil and travel to groundwater before evaporation can occur (Cowfer and Magistro 1983).
Experimental data regarding adsorption of vinyl chloride to soil were not located. Based on the regression equations given by Lyman et al. (1982), Sabljic (1984), and Kenaga and Goring (1980), the soil organic carbon adsorption coefficient (K^) for vinyl chloride was estimated to range from 14 to 131. These values suggest a very low sorption tendency, meaning that this compound would be highly mobile in soil. Thus, vinyl chloride has the potential to leach into groundwater.
Vinyl chloride is soluble in most common organic solvents (Cowfer.and Magistro 1983). In situations where
organic contaminants exist in relatively high concentrations (e.g., landfills, hazardous waste sites), cosolvation
of vinyl chloride could have the effect of reducing its volatility, thus causing it to have even greater mobility
than indicated by estimated
values.
Vinyl chloride's high vapor pressure and low octanol/water partition coefficient (log Kow = 1.23) indicates that it bioaccumulates to a very limited extent (EPA 1982a). The bioconcentration factor (BCF) of an organic chemical can be estimated from the Kow or water solubility. Based on the regression equation given by Veith el al. (1980), the estimated BCF of 5.1 indicates limited bioconcentration in aquatic organisms. Frietag et al. (1985) measured BCFs in algae, fish, and activated sludge. The BCFs for algae, fish, and activated sludge were 40, less than 10, and 1,100, respectively. The very low value for fish, in comparison to the algae and activated sludge, may suggest a detoxification process in higher developed organisms such as fish. Lu et al. (1977) examined the bioaccumulation of 14C-vinyl chloride in a closed model aquatic ecosystem over a 3-day period. The high volatility of vinyl chloride minimized any potential bioaccumulation. Relatively low tissue concentrations found in fish suggested that vinyl chloride is not biomagnified in aquatic food chains to any substantial degree.
5.3,2 Transformation and Degradation
5.3.2.1 Air
Reaction of vinyl chloride vapor with photochemically generated hydroxyl radicals is predicted to be the primary degradation mechanism for this compound in the atmosphere. The half-life for this reaction in the atmosphere ranges from 1.2 to 1.8 days (Cox et al. 1974; Howard 1976; Perry et al. 1977). Products of this reaction are hydrochloric acid, formaldehyde, formyl chloride, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, chloroacetaldehyde, acetylene, chloroethylene epoxide, chloroacetylchloranil, and water (Kayiga et al. 1975; Muller and Korte 1977; Woldbaek and Klaboe 1978). Under conditions of photochemical smog, the half-life of vinyl chloride would be reduced to a few hours (Carassitti et al. 1978). Reaction with ozone and direct photolysis are less important degradation mechanisms of vinyl chloride in the atmosphere (EPA 1985c; Hill et al. 1976; Zhang et al. 1983). Vinyl chloride in the vapor phase does not absorb light of wavelengths above 220 nm; therefore, direct photolysis will not occur in the atmosphere (Hill et al. 1976).
5.3.2.2 Water
The primary removal process for vinyl chloride from surface waters is volatilization into the atmosphere. Vinyl chloride in water does not absorb ultraviolet radiation above 218 nm; therefore, direct photolysis in the aquatic environment is not expected to occur (Hill et al. 1976). Solutions of 10 mg/L (10 ppm) vinyl chloride in pure water were exposed to filtered light (greater than 300 nm) from a mercury lamp (Hill et al, 1976). No photolysis occurred over a 90-hour period. In waters containing photosensitizers, such as
R&S 037965
`DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
68
5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE
humic materials, photodegradation may be fairly rapid. If so, in some waters, sensitized photodegradation may also be an important removal mechanism (Hill et al. 1976).
The hydrolytic half-life of vinyl chloride has been estimated to be less than 10 years at 25C (Hill et al. 1976). Since the volatilization rate of vinyl chloride is much more rapid than the predicted rate of hydrolysis, hydrolysis is not a significant aquatic fate (Callahan et al. 1979; Hill et al. 1976). Vinyl chloride is not oxidized chemically by reaction with photochcmically generated molecular oxygen in natural water systems (Hill et al, 1976). Experiments carried out at 20 mg/L vinyl chloride in water saturated with molecular oxygen at elevated temperatures showed that after 12 hours at 85C, no degradation of vinyl chloride could be detected. At temperatures and oxygen concentrations in natural waters, therefore, vinyl chloride will not be degraded by molecular oxygen at a significant rate (Hill et al. 1976).
The limited amount of existing data indicates that vinyl chloride is resistant to microbial degradation. Hill et al. (1976) found that an isolated microbial culture containing two species of bacteria and three muted fungal populations was unable to biodegrade vinyl chloride over a 5-week period at concentrations of 20-120 mg/L (20-120 ppm). Helfgott et al. (1977) observed no change in the biochemical oxygen demand in raw sewage seed (used as a microbial inoculum) and raw sewage seed plus vinyl chloride at 20C over a 25-day period. The authors interpreted this to mean that no biodegradation of vinyl chloride occurred.
S.3.2.3 Soil
The majority of vinyl chloride present on soil surfaces will volatilize to the atmosphere. Vinyl chloride is also mobile in soil and susceptible to leaching (Lyman et al. 1982). The presence of other organic solvents, such as those found at hazardous waste sites, may affect the mobility of the substance in the soil (Cowfer and Magistro 1983). Photodegradation on the surface of soils is expected since sensitized photodegradation in water occurs. Also, based on data in aquatic media, microbial degradation of vinyl chloride is not expected to occur in soil.
5.4 LEVELS MONITORED OR ESTIMATED IN THE ENVIRONMENT
5.4.1 Air
Ur in rural/remote and urban/suburban areas of the United States typically contains no detectable amount of vinyl chloride (Grimsrud and Rasmussen 1975a, 1975b; Harkov et al. 1984; Stephens et al. 1986; Wallace et al. 1984). Limited monitoring data indicate that in areas near vinyl chloride and PVC manufacturing facilities, the concentration of vinyl chloride in air typically ranges from trace levels to 105 pg/ir/ (0.041 ppm) (EPA 1979a; Gordon and Meeks 1977), but may exceed 2,600 pg/m3 (1 ppm) (Fishbein 1979). Elevated levels of vinyl chloride may also be found in the vicinity of hazardous waste sites and municipal landfills. Concentrations ranging from below detection limits to 5-8 pg/m3 (0.002-0.003 ppm) have been measured in the air above some landfills (Baker and Mackay 1985; Stephens et al. 1986). Homes near a hazardous waste site in southern California were found to contain levels as high as 1,040 pg/m3 (0.4 ppm) (Stephens et al. 1986). Gaseous emissions from 20 Class 11 (nontoxic) landfills in southern California were analyzed for vinyl chloride (Wood and Porter 1987). Vinyl chloride was found in emissions from 85% of the landfills tested, and it was found in concentrations greater than 1 ppm in more than half of the landfill emissions. The concentration of vinyl chloride measured in this study ranged from 0.24 to 44 ppm. Based on their observations, the authors concluded that the presence of vinyl chloride at these landfills was due to either illegal disposal or in situ generation by the degradation of chlorinated solvents by bacteria and other microbes (Wood and Porter 1987).
***DRAFT for public comment***
R&S 037966
89
5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE
5.4.2 Water
Vinyl chloride has been detected at varying concentrations in surface water, groundwater, and drinking water throughout the United States. Concentrations of vinyl chloride in drinking water wells and surface water in New York State were found to be 0.05 and 0.01 ppm, respectively (Burmaster 1982). Monitoring studies in nine states have identified concentrations as high as 9.8 ^g/L (0.01 ppm) in surface water and 380 /rg/L (0.38 ppm) in groundwater (Coniglio et al. 1980; Dyksen and Hess 1982),
The level of vinyl chloride in groundwater in the United States was determined during the 1982 EPA Groundwater Supply Survey (Westrick et al. 1984). Water supplies from 945 sites throughout the United States were studied. Vinyl chloride was positively identified in only 0.74% of the 945 groundwater supplies (detection limit 0.001 ppm). It was reported that 0,5% of 186 random sample sites and 3.8% of 158 nonrandom sample sites contained detectable levels of vinyl chloride. The maximum concentrations at the random and nonrandom sites were 1.1 jrg/L (0.0011 ppm) and 8.4 tg/L (0.0084 ppm), respectively (Westrick et al. 1984). Approximately half of the samples were taken from a random list of water systems, which were subdivided into two sets of systems-those serving fewer than 10,000 people and those serving more than 10,000 people. The nonrandom samples were taken from systems selected by the states, using groundwater sources that were likely to show volatile organic compounds in drinking water (Westrick et al. 1984). Other studies have reported the occurrence of vinyl chloride in groundwater samples collected throughout the United States at levels at or below 380 Mg/U (0.38 ppm) (Coniglio et al. 1980; Cotruvo 1985; Goodenkauf and Atkinson 1986; Stuart 1983).
5.4.3 Soil
Monitoring data for vinyl chloride in soil were not located in the available literature.
5.4.4 Other Environmental Media
In the past, vinyl chloride has been detected in various foods as a result of migration from PVC food wrappings and containers (Gilbert et al. 1980). Vinyl chloride has been found in vinegar at levels up to 9.8 ppm, in edible oils at 0.3-18.0 ppm, and in alcoholic beverages at 0.0-8.4 ppm when these foods were packaged and stored in PVC containers (Williams and Miles 1975; Williams 1976). At present, FDA regulates the use of PVC polymers in food packaging materials and the amount of residual monomer in polymers. Results of a modeling study on the migration of vinyl chloride from PVC using liquid chromatography to simulate migration conditions in actual food packaging and storage revealed that, at the very low concentrations of residual vinyl chloride monomer in PVC packaging material, essentially zero migration of vinyl chloride monomer into foods occurs (Kontominas et al. 1985).
Vinyl chloride has leached into drinking water from PVC pipes. One study found that drinking water that ran through PVC pipes contained vinyl chloride at 1,4 /rg/L (0.0014 ppm), whereas water that ran through a PVC system 9 years older contained 0.03-0.06 Mg/L (3xl0`s-6xl0'5 ppm) (Dressman and McFarren 1978). The migration of vinyl chloride from rigid PVC water pipes into drinking water was directly proportional to the residual level of vinyl chloride in the pipe itself. Current data addressing the potential for leaching of vinyl chloride monomer from PVC pipes were not located. Under certain test conditions, vinyl chloride monomer in drinking water reacts with chlorine and is converted to chloroacetaldehyde and chloroacetic acid (Ando and Sayato 1984). Information concerning the effect of this reaction on drinking water supplies fhr are pretreated with chlorine and the extent of this reaction were not stated.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037967
90
5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE
During an EPA study, detectable levels of vinyl chloride monomer (detection limit 0.05 ppm) were found in indoor air samples taken from two of seven new 1975 model cars. Levels of vinyl chloride in indoor air in the two cars ranged from 0.4 to 1.2 ppm. Ventilation of the car interiors led to the dissipation of vinyl chloride. The cars involved in the study had a high ratio of plastic to interior volume and were expected to provide worst-case concentrations for vinyl chloride in interior car air (Hedley et al. 1976). Because of the limited nature of these data and the fact that this study is somewhat dated, no conclusions can be drawn regarding levels of vinyl chloride monomer in interior air of cars currently being produced.
Vinyl chloride has been detected in tobacco smoke. Cigarette smoke and small cigar smoke have been found to contain 5.6-27 ng vinyl chloride per cigarette (Hoffman et al. 1976).
5.5 GENERAL POPULATION AND OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE
Inhalation is the most probable route of exposure for the general population. Typical values for the average daily intake of vinyl chloride by inhalation in urban/suburban and rural/remote areas have been estimated to be essentially zero. Assuming that the average adult intake of air is 20 m3/day, the average daily intake of vinyl chloride by people living in the vicinity of emission sources has been estimated to range from trace amounts to 2,100 pg (Gordon and Meeks 1977; EPA 1979a). The majority of drinking water supplies in the United States contain no detectable levels of vinyl chloride (Coniglio et al. 1980; Westrick et al. 1984). Based on this information, it is assumed that the average daily intake of vinyl chloride by ingestion of drinking water for most persons in the United States is essentially zero. Estimates provided by EPA (1985b) indicate that 0.9% of the U.S. population is exposed to levels of vinyl chloride in drinking water greater than or equal to 1.0 y-g/L, and 0.3% of the population is exposed to levels greater than 5 pg/L.
The National Occupational Exposure Survey (NOES), conducted by NIOSH from 1981 to 1983, estimated that 81,314 workers employed at 3,711 plant sites were potentially exposed to vinyl chloride in the United States (NOES 1990). The NOES database does not contain information on the frequency, concentration, or duration of exposure; the survey provides only estimates of workers potentially exposed to chemicals in the workplace. Exposure is believed to occur primarily through inhalation with some absorption through the skin possible (Sittig 1985).
5.6 POPULATIONS WITH POTENTIALLY HIGH EXPOSURES
Individuals located near or downwind of production facilities, hazardous waste disposal sites, and landfills may potentially be exposed to higher than background ambient atmospheric levels of vinyl chloride. For specific levels associated with health effects, see Section 2.7. Individuals living near hazardous waste sites and landfills may also be exposed to vinyl chloride in their drinking water. Workers involved in the production or polymerization of vinyl chloride may constitute a group at risk because of the potential for occupational exposure. Smokers may be at increased risk of exposure to higher levels of vinyl chloride as the compound has been detected in tobacco smoke.
5.7 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE
Section 104(i)(5) of CERCLA directs the Administrator of ATSDR (in consultation with the Administrator of EPA and agencies and programs of the Public Health Service) to assess whether adequate information on the health effects of vinyl chloride is available. Where adequate information is not available, ATSDR, in conjunction with NTP, is required to assure the initiation of a program of research designed to determine the health effects (and techniques for developing methods to determine such health effects) of vinyl chloride.
R&S 037968
''DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE
The following categories of possible data needs have been identified by a joint team of scientists from ATSDR, NTP, and EPA. They are defined as substance-specific informational needs that if met would reduce or eliminate the uncertainties of human health assessment. This definition should not be interpreted to mean that all data needs discussed in this section must be filled. In the future, the identified data needs will be evaluated and prioritized, and a substance-specific research agenda will be proposed.
5.7.1 Identification of Data Needs
Physical and Chemical Properties. The physical and chemical properties of vinyl chloride are sufficiently well characterized to permit estimation of its environmental fate.
Production, Import/Export, Use, and Release and Disposal. Vinyl chloride is released primarily to the
atmosphere via emissions from vinyl chloride and PVC manufacturing facilities. The risk of exposure to vinyl chloride is highest for workers in the plastics industry and populations living near industrial areas or hazardous waste sites. Current production, use, and manufacturing methods are well described in the literature. More current information on releases and disposal methods might assist in estimating potential exposures to vinyl chloride, particularly for populations living near hazardous waste sites.
Environmental Fate. Vinyl chloride is transported in and partitioned to the air and water and is also partitioned to air from water; it is also partitioned to air from water. Experimental data regarding the partitioning of vinyl chloride to soil are needed. Vinyl chloride is transformed in the atmosphere by photooxidation. It is removed from surface water and groundwater mainly by volatilization and photodegradation. Information regarding the transformation and degradation in soil would be helpful in defining the potential pathways for human exposure.
Bioavailability from Environmental Media. Vinyl chloride can be absorbed following inhalation, oral, and,
to a much lesser extent, dermal exposure. These routes of exposure may be of concern to humans because of the potential of vinyl chloride to contaminate air, water, and food. Information regarding the bioavailability from ingestion and dermal contact of contaminated soils would be helpful, particularly for populations living near hazardous waste sites.
Food Chain Bioaccumulation, vinyl chloride can bioconcentrate to a limited extent in aquatic organisms.
Biomagnification of vinyl chloride in terrestrial and aquatic food chains does not appear to be important because of its high volatility and the fact that it is readily metabolized by higher-trophic-level organisms. No data were located regarding biomagnification in terrestrial foodchains.
Exposure Levels in Environmental Media. Vinyl chloride has been detected in air, water, sediment, and
food. Intake data for the general population from the various media are available. Data on levels of vinyl chloride in soils are needed. Site-specific data on concentrations of vinyl chloride in air, soil, and water would be helpful in estimating the risk of exposure for populations living in the vicinity of hazardous waste sites. Also, current data on the extent of release (if any) of vinyl chloride from PVC pipes and from car interiors are needed to estimate the risk of exposure of the general population.
Exposure Levels in Humans. The metabolites of vinyl chloride have been detected in human tissues and
fluids as a result of occupational exposure to the substance. No information on biological monitoring studies for the general population was located. More information on exposure levels for populations living in the vicinity of hazardous waste sites would be helpful.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
92 5. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE
Exposure Registries. No exposure registries for vinyl chloride were located. This compound is not currently one of the compounds for which a subregistry has been established in the National Exposure Registry. The compound will be considered in the future when chemical selection is made for subregistries to be established. The information that is amassed in the National Exposure Registry facilitates the epidemiological research needed to assess adverse health outcomes that may be related to the exposure to this compound. 5.7.2 On-going Studies As part of the Third National Health and Nutrition Evaluation Survey (NHANES III), the Environmental Health Laboratory Sciences Division of the Center for Environmental Health and Injury Control, Centers for Disease Control, will be analyzing human blood samples for vinyl chloride and other volatile organic compounds. These data will give an indication of the frequency of occurrence and background levels of these compounds in the general population. Dr. S. Fogel (Cambridge Analytical Association) is examining the feasibility of in situ biodegradation of chlorinated ethenes, specifically vinyl chloride, in contaminated drinking water aquifers. Three microbiological processes have been identified with a high probability of achievin' the complete biodegradation of vinyl chloride. The results may enable the design of a specific aquifer :estoration plan in which the subsurface environment is modified to create a microbiological barrier across the path of an approaching contaminant plume. Dr. Fogel is also researching biodegradation of chlorinated aliphatic compounds by methane-utilizing bacteria. A bacterium has been isolated that grows by oxidizing methane (a methanotroph) and that can also degrade vinyl chloride. This discovery has significant potential for applications in the field of groundwater and waste water treatment.
33 C/3 o
CO
'J to
o
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
93
6. ANALYTICAL METHODS
The purpose of this chapter is to describe the analytical methods that arc available for detecting and/or measuring and monitoring vinyl chloride in environmental media and in biological samples. The intent is not to provide an exhaustive list of analytical methods that could be used to detect and quantify vinyl chloride. Rather, the intention is to identify well-established methods that are used as the standard methods of analysis. Many of the analytical methods used to detect vinyl chloride in environmental samples are the methods approved by federal organizations such as EPA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Other methods presented in this chapter are those that are approved by groups such as the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and the American Public Health Association (APHA). Additionally, analytical methods are included that refine previously used methods to obtain lower detection limits, and/or to improve accuracy and precision.
6.1 BIOLOGICAL MATERIALS
The analytical method used to analyze for the presence of vinyl chloride in biological media is separation by gas chromatography (GC) combined with detection by mass spectrometry (MS), flame ionization detector (FID), or electron capture detector (ECD). Vinyl chloride and/or its metabolite, thiodiglycolic acid, have been detected in breath, urine, blood, and tissues. Breath samples can be preconcentrated by cryogenic trapping. The two methods most commonly used to prepare liquid and solid samples are preconcentration by a purge-and-trap technique or headspace analysis. Preconcentration not only increases the sensitivity but, in certain instances, may decrease the sample separation time prior to quantitation. Details of commonly used analytical methods for several types of biological media are presented in Table 6-1.
Vinyl chloride was determined in exhaled air by preconcentration with a multistage cryogenic trapping system followed by thermal desorption using GC/FID, GC/ECD, and GC/MS (Conkle et al. 1975). Sensitivity is in the low-ppb range. The authr ,s noted that the reproducibility of the subject/sampling system was inconclusive. The quantitative data reflected considerable scatter, apparently indicating the variability of the biological system and the trace nature of the compound. The additional requirement for long-term coupling (30-60 minutes) of the sampling system to the subject probably limits the method to industrial health applications, with relatively robust subjects (Conkle ct al. 1975). Baretta et al. (1969) monitored exposure to vinyl chloride through breath analysis. The breath samples were collected in pipets with plastic caps lined with six layers of Saran film identical to that used for the construction of Saran air sampling bags. Aliquots were drawn from the pipets and injected directly into a gas chromatograph equipped with FID. Detectability of vinyl chloride in the exhaled air by this method becomes limited when air concentrations in the workplace are below 50 ppm.
Vinyl chloride has been measured in rat blood and tissues using headspace GC/FID (Zuccato et al. 1979). In headspace analysis, the gaseous layer above the sample is injected into the gas chromatograph. Sample preparation steps for rat blood and tissues involves extraction in an ethanol-water mixture, incubation, and direct injection into the gas chromatograph. Sample preparation for tissues includes an extra step involving freezing and homogenization before the extraction procedure. Accuracy varied, ranging from about 75% to 92% recovery. The method is sensitive to 5 ng/mL vinyl chloride in blood and 30 ng/g in tissues.
Muller et al. (1979) employed GC/MS as a selective biomonitoring method for the quantitative measurement of thiodiglycolic acid, a urinary metabolite of vinyl chloride. They reported a sensitivity of 50 ng/mL. Precision was generally good. The authors noted that some thiodiglycolic acid has been found in supposedly unexposed subjects. Therefore, exposure to low levels of vinyl chloride could be masked by background metabolic levels within normal limits. This may limit the application of biological monitoring for the measurement of vinyl chloride following low-level exposure (Muller et al. 1979; van Sittert and de Jong 1985).
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMEt'Tr***
3Z6ZE0 SSH TABLE 6-1. Analytical Methods for Determining Vinyl Chloride in urological Materials
ANALYTICAL METHODS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC
Sample matrix Breath Breath Urine
Urine
Preparation method
Analytical method
Sample detection
limit
Percent recovery
Breath collected in pipets lined with Saran film; direct injection into gas chromatograph
G C/FID
Cytogenic trapping of expired air; thermal desorption into gas chromatograph
GC/FID, GC/ECD, and GC/MS
Acidified and dessicated overnight; add methanol; derivative with diazomethane; add ionexchange resin
GC/MS
Internal standard added to urine; acidification and ethyl acetate extraction; evaporation of soluent; addition of N-trimethysiiyldicthylaminc in pyridine (1:1); injection into gas chromatograph
GC/FID, GC/MS
NR NR 50 ng/mL 10 mg/L
NR NR NR NR
Reference Baretta et al. 1%9
Conkle et al. 1975
Muller et al. 1979
Draminski and Trojanowska 1981
TABLE G-1 (Continued)
Sample matrix
Preparation method
Analytical method
Sample detection
limit
Percent recovery
Reference
Blood and tissues
Extraction in ethanolwater mixture, incubation, injection into gas chromatograph. Tissue preparation also includes freezing and homogenization before the extraction procedure.
GC/FID
5 ng/mL blood 75-79% blood
30 ng/g tissue 76-92% tissue
Zuccato et al. 1979
1
GC/ECD = gas chromatography/electron capture detector; GC/FID = gas chromatography/flame ionization detector; GC/MS = gas chromatography/mass spectrometry; NR = not reported
ANALYTICAL METHODS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*
e^6zeo ssy
R&S 037974
96
6. ANALYTICAL METHODS
In a study by Jedrychowski et al. (1984), urinary excretion of thiodiglycolic acid was determined using GC/FID. The urine was extracted twice with ethyl acetate prior to analysis. No recovery data were given for this method.
6.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLES
Analysis of environmental samples is similar to that of biological samples. The most common methods used to detect vinyl chloride in environmental samples are GC/MS, GC/ECD, and GC/FID. Preconcentration of samples is usually done by sorption on solid sorbent for air and by the purge-and-trap method for liquid and solid matrices. Alternatively, headspace above liquid and solid samples may be analyzed without preconcentration. Details of commonly used analytical methods for several types of environmental samples are presented in Table 6-2.
The primary method of analyzing vinyl chloride in air is GC combined with either MS, ECD, or FID. Air samples are usually pumped through a sample collection column with Tenax-GC, coconut activated charcoal, or spherocarb (a carbon molecular sieve material) as the most common adsorbents. Several authors have noted that Tcnax-GC displays poor retention for vinyl chloride when the compound is present in the very low-ppb range (Bozzelli and Kabbekus 1979; Krost et al. 1982; McMurry and Tarr 1978), Vinyl chloride is thermally desorbed from the collection column and concentrated on a cryogenic trapping column located on the gas chromatograph. Vapors arc heat-released from the trapping column directly to the gas chromatograph (Bozzelli and Kabbekus 1979; Krost et al. 1982). Grab samples of air can also be obtained and preconcentrated on a cryogenic column (Rasmussen et al. 1977). The limit of detection for GC/MS and GC/ECD is in the sub-ppb range (Bozzelli and Kabbekus 1979; Harsch et al. 1979; Krost et al. 1982; Rasmussen et al. 1977). Accuracy is generally good (Bozzelli and Kabbekus 1979). With careful technique, precision is adequate, ranging from 5% to 20% (Bozzelli and Kabbekus 1979; McMurray and Tarr 1978).
Trace amounts of vinyl chloride in air and water were detected employing GC/ECD after derivatization to 1,2-dibromochloroethane (Wittisiepe et al. 1990). Air samples were taken by drawing a known volume directly through an ice-cooled adsorption tube. Water samples were purged with an inert gas before being drawn through the adsorption tube. The tubes were eluted with carbon disulfide, and the vinyl chloride was derivatized with bromine water to form 1,2-dibromochloroethane. This derivatization technique is used for enhancement of sensitivity with GC/ECD. The derivative was determined by capillary GC with ECD. The detection limits for air and water samples are 50 ng/m3 and 0.4 ng/L (0.4 parts per trillion), respectively. Results from recovery experiments with dosed water indicated that accuracy was good.
Vinyl chloride can be detected in drinking water, groundwater, waste water, and leachate from solid waste. Analysis of vinyl chloride is done by purge-and-trap or headspace GC. The primary analytical method is separation by GC combined with MS, ECD, FID, Hall's electrolytic conductivity detector (HECD), or another type of halogen specific detector (HSD). In most methods, vinyl chloride is liberated from the liquid matrix by purging with an inert gas and concentrated by trapping on a suitable solid sorbent. Vinyl chloride is thermally desorbed and backflushed onto the column of the gas chromatograph with an inert gas. Detection of vinyl chloride is generally achieved using HECD, HSD, or MS (APHA 1985; EPA 1982d, 1982c; IARC 1978; Reding 1987). The limit of detection is in the sub-ppb range for halogen specific detectors (APHA 1985; EPA 1982d, 1982e) and in the low-ppb range for MS (EPA 1982d). Accuracy is greater than 98% and precision ranges from 11% to 25% for GC/HECD and GC/MS (EPA 1982d).
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
ANALYTICAL METHODS DRAFT FOR PUBUC COMMENT*'
TABLE 6-2. Analytical Methods for Determining Vinyl Chloride in Environmental Samples
Sample matrix
Preparation method
Analytical method
Sample detection
limit
Percent recovery
Reference
Occupational air
Ambient indoor and outdoor air
Air Air
Automobile exhaust
Vinyl chloride in air adsorbed in activated carbon trap and desorbed by carbon disulfide
Air containing vinyl chloride passed through activated carbon trap and desorbed by dichloromethane or carbon disulfide
Adsorption on Tenax-GC, or SKC Carbon, then thermal desorption
Air prefitiered by Na2S203-treated glass fiber filter was passed through spherocarb adsorbent cartridge and thermally desorbed
Exhaust samples contained in aluminized plastic bags
GC/FID
GC/F1D
GC/MS GC/FID, GC/MS, GC/ECD
GC/FID
NR 5 ppb 0.33 ppb 0.(X)5 ppb 0.02 ppm
94% at 0.4-25 ppm NR
NR NR
NR
NIOSH 1984
IARC 1978
Krost et al. 1982 1 iarkov el al. I`)x3, 1984
Hasanen cl ai. 1979
SZ6ZE0 S^d
0>
9Z6Z90 ssu
TABLE 6-2 (Continued)
ANALYTICAL METHODS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC
Sample matrix
Preparation method
Analytical method
Sample detection
limit
Percent recovery
Reference
Air
Trapped in cold
G C/FID
NR
89.6% at
Ives 1975
Tenax-GC trap;
6 ppb; 100%
thermal desorption
at 60 ppb
** Air o 5 T3l O
Sample collected in pressurized canister is passed through a freezeout loop and subsequently heated
G C/ECD
0.01 ppb
NR
cCO c
Air
o
Sample collected in polyester-coated plastic
G C/FID
0.4 ppb
NR
o o
bags concentrated by
2 2m
freezeout and subsequently heated
3
Drinking water
Samples collected in
GC/HSD, GC/MS
NR
NR
serum reaction bottles;
purge and trap technique
Harsch et al. 1979; Rasmussen et al. 1977
McMurry and Tarr 1978
Dressman and McFarren 1978
Drinking water and waste water
Purge and trap in Tenax-GC; thermal desorption
GC/HSD, GC/MS (EPA Methods 601 and 624)
0.18 ppb (HSD)
102% at 0.8-32.3 ppb
APHA 1985; EPA 1982d
Groundwater, liquid, and solid matrices
Purge at 45C and trap in Tenax-GC; thermal desorption
GC/HSD (EPA Method 8010)
0.18 ppb
102% at 0.82-32.3 ppb
EPA 1982c
TABLE 6-2 (Continued)
ANALYTICAL METHODS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Sample matrix
Preparation method
Analytical method
Sample detection
limit
Percent recovery
Reference
Drinking water
Purge and trap in Tenax-GC; thermal desorption
GC/Hall detector, GC/PID (EPA Methods 502.2 and 524.2)
Migration of monomer into drinking water from PVC pipes
Water
Landfill gas
Small sections put in water in sealed serum vial for a number of days at 2CPC; solution directly injected into gas chromatograph
Sample in sealed vial is equilibrated at constant temperature; headspace gas injected into gas chromatograph
Gas from landfill sites sampled by PTFE tubing inside drive-in piezometers was adsorbed in Tenax*-GC or Porapak, a sorbent; trapped sample desorbed and concentrated in liquid Nj-cooled loop and flash desorbed
G C/FID G C/FID GC/MS
0.04 ppb (Hall detector); 0.02 ppb (PID) NR
< 1 ppb
0.04-0.8 ppm
100-119% at 5-10 ppb
Reding 1987
NR Ando and Sayato 1984
NR [ARC 1978 NR Young and Parker 1984
LL6LZ0 S'Sa
8Z6Z0O ssa
Sample matrix
Preparation method
TABLE 6-2 (Continued)
Analytical method
Sample detection
limit
Percent recovery
Reference
ANALYTICAL METHODS DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
Sediment and oyster
Landfill gas
Food (orange drink, wine, olive oil)
Foodstuffs
Homogeneous sample mixed with water and vinyl chloride purged into a closed loop; gas in closed loop injected into gas chromatograph
GC/ECD
Sample collected in 2 L evacuated glass bulb; gas directly injected into gas chromatograph
GC/FID
Sample sealed in vials and equilibrated at 40DC for 2 hours; headspace gas injected into gas chromatograph
GC/FID
Sample sealed in vials and equilibrated at 4CPC for a minimum of 2 hours; headspace gas injected into gas chromatograph
GC/FID
2 ng/g (sediment)
4 ng/g (oyster)
NR
NR NR
NR NR
Wang ct al. 1985 Wood and Porter 1987 Chudy and Crosby 1977
1-5 ppb
NR
IARC 1978
EPA = Environmental Protection Agency; GC/ECD = gas chromatography/electron capture detector; GC/FID = gas chroma lography/flame ionization detector; GC/HSD = gas chromatography/halogen specific detector; GC/MS = gas chromalography/mass spectrometry, GC/PID = gas chromalography/photoionization detector; HSD = halogen specific detector; N2 = nitrogen; Na2S203 = sodium thiosulfate; NR = not reported; PETE = polytetrafluorethylcne;PID = photoionization detector; PVC = polyvinyl chloride
6. ANALYTICAL METHODS
?9
Recently, EPA made improvements in methods for measuring volatile organic chemicals. The major change is the use of smaller sample volumes allowed by increased use of capillary gas chromatographic columns. Capillary columns provide better resolution, minimum detection limits, and less column bleed than packed columns (Reding 1987).
Vinyl chloride has been measured in sediment using GC/ECD with sensitivity in the low-ppb range. Accuracy and precision data were not given (Wang et al. 1985). No information on analysis of vinyl chloride in soil was located. GC/HSD of headspace gases is the EPA-recommended method for solid matrices with sensitivity in the sub-ppb range. Accuracy (101.9%) is good and precision (11.4%) is adequate (EPA 1982d). Vinyl chloride levels in food have been determined using GC/FID. Headspace analysis is a common method of preparation of foods with sensitivity in the low-ppb range (1ARC 1978).
6.3 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE
Section 104(i)(5) of CERCLA directs the Administrator of ATSDR (in consultation with the Administrator of EPA and agencies and programs of the Public Health Service) to assess whether adequate information on the health effects of vinyl chloride is available. Where adequate information is not available, ATSDR, in conjunction with NTP, is required to assure the initiation of a program of research designed to determine the health effects (and techniques for developing methods to determine such health effects) of vinyl chloride.
The following categories of possible data needs have been identified by a joint team of scientists from ATSDR, NTP, and EPA. They are defined as substance-specific informational needs that if met would reduce or eliminate the uncertainties of human health assessment. This definition should not be interpreted to mean that all data needs discussed in this section must be filled. In the future, the identified data needs will be evaluated and prioritized, and a substance-specific research agenda will be proposed.
6.3.1 Identification of Data Needs
Methods for Determining Biomarkers of Exposure and Effect. Methods are available for measuring vinyl chloride and/or its metabolite, thiodiglycolic acid, in breath, urine, blood, and tissue. These methods are sensitive for measuring levels at which health effects might occur, and for measuring higher background levels that might be found in specific populations known to be exposed to elevated levels of vinyl chloride (e.g., workers in the plastics industry and individuals living in the vicinity of hazardous waste sites). Measurement of urinary thiodiglycolic acid can be used as an indicator of vinyl chloride intake as long as individual variability in metabolism due to such factors as liver disease, use of drugs, and alcohol intake can be accounted for. Exposure to vinyl chloride al concentrations below 1-5 ppm could be masked by background metabolic levels of thiodiglycolic acid within normal limits. Also, the formation of thiodiglycolic acid is not unique to vinyl chloride exposure. The methods are generally reliable, although increased precision for most methods would increase reliability. Background levels for the general population are ill defined. Further research on the relationship between low-level exposure and levels of vinyl chloride in biological media would be helpful in assessing the risks and health effects of chronic, low-level exposure.
Existing methods are sensitive for measuring levels of vinyl chloride and its metabolite, thiodiglycolic acid, in individuals affected by exposure to very high levels of vinyl chloride. Also, methods are available to detect DNA adducts produced by the reaction of vinyl chloride metabolites with DNA. These DNA adducts are specific indicators of vinyl chloride's genotoxic potential. These methods, however, are not sufficiently sensitive to determine the genotoxic effects resulting from low-level exposure. Correlations between levels detected in biological tissues and fluids, and specific observed effects for lower levels of exposure, are not
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
B&S 037980
102 6. ANALYTICAL METHODS
established. Additional research in this area would allow better assessment of existing methods and would help in defining areas in which improvements are needed. Methods for Determining Parent Compounds and Degradation Products in Environmental Media. Existing methods for determining vinyl chloride in air and water, the media of most concern for human exposure, are sensitive, reproducible, and reliable for measuring background levels in the environment. Research investigating the relationship between levels measured in air and water and observed health effects could increase our confidence in existing methods and/or indicate where improvements are needed. Methods specifically regarding the analysis of vinyl chloride in soils were not located. EPA does, however, have sensitive and reliable methods for determining the concentration of vinyl chloride in soil matrices, which include contaminated soils. 6.3,2 On-going Studies No on-going studies concerning methods for measuring and determining vinyl chloride in biological and environmental samples were located. rhe Environmental Health Laboratory Sciences Division of the Center for Environmental Health and Injury Control, Centers for Disease Control, is developing methods for the analysis of vinyl chloride and other volatile organic compounds in blood. These methods use purge and trap methodology and magnetic sector mass spectrometry which gives detection limits in the low parts per trillion range.
"DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 037981
103
7. REGULATIONS AND ADVISORIES
The international, national, and state regulations and guidelines regarding vinyl chloride in air, water, and other media are summarized in Table 7-1. ATSDR has derived two MRL values for vinyl chloride. An intermediate-duration inhalation MRL of 0.002 ppm was derived for vinyl chloride based on its ability to cause increased liver weight (Bi et al. 1985). A chronic-duration oral MRL of 2xl0'5 mg/kg/day was derived for vinyl chloride based on its ability to cause areas of cellular alteration in the liver (Til et al. 1983). No reference dose (RfD) or reference concentration (RfC) exist for vinyl chloride (IRIS 1990). Vinyl chloride is on the list of chemicals appearing in "Toxic Chemicals Subject to Section 313 of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986" (EPA 1987f, 1988c). The FDA proposed to amend its regulations regarding the vinyl chloride content of polymers used in packaging materials or processing equipment for foods (EPA 1977c; FDA 1986). Depending on the nature of the polymer and its use, proposed vinyl chloride content may range from 5 to 50 ppm.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
104 7. REGULATIONS AND ADVISORIES
TABLE 7-1. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Vinyl Chloride
Agency INTERNATIONAL IARC NATIONAL Regulations: a. Air
OSHA
b. Water. EPA ODW
c. Food: FDA
d. Other. EPA OERR
Description Carcinogenic classification
Information
References
Group la
IARC 1987
PEL TWA
STEL Peak (15 minutes)
Direct employee exposure to vinyl chloride is not allowed
Concentration in exhaust gases from formulation and purification of vinyl chloride shall not exceed13:
Reactor opening loss from each reactor not to exceed:
In polyvinyl chloride plants using stripping to control emissions
Daily weighted average residual concentration processed each day for polyvinyl chloride dispersion resins may not exceed:
Latex resins averaged separately for each type of resin:
Dispersion polyvinyl chloride resins excluding latex:
Latex resins:
1 ppm
No data 5 ppm
Yes
10 ppm
0.02 g/kg of polyvinyl chlonde product
2,000 ppm
400 ppm 2 g/kg 0.4 g/kg
EPA 1974a (29 CFR 1910.1017); EPA 1974b
EPA 1974a (29 CFR 1910.1017); EPA 1974b
EPA 1974a (29 CFR 1910.1017); EPA 1974b
EPA 1986b (40 CFR 61.63); EPA 1986c
EPA 1986b (40 CFR 61.63); EPA 1986c
EPA 1986b (40 CFR 61.63); EPA 1986c
EPA 1986b (40 CFR 61.63); EPA 1986c
EPA 1986b (40 CFR 61.63); EPA 1986c
EPA 1986b (40 CFR 61.63); EPA 1986c
EPA 1986b (40 CFR 61.63); EPA 1986c
MCL in drinking water Final Proposed
Regulated under SDWA of 1986
0.002 mg/L 0.001 mg/L Yes
EPA 1989b (40 CFR 141, 142, 143); EPA 1987d
FSTRAC 1988
Indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives
Yes
Reportable quantity. CERCLA Statutory RQ Proposed
1 pound 10 pounds
EPA 1977a (21 CFR 175.105); EPA 1977b
EPA 1985a (40 CFR 302); EPA 1986a (40 CFR 117); EPA 1987e
R&S 037982
**DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT"*
Agency NATIONAL ('Com.']
EPA OSW
EPA OTS Guidelines: a. Air
ACGIH EPA NIOSH
b. Water EPA ODW
105 7. REGULATIONS AND ADVISORIES
TABLE 7-1 (Continued)
Description
Information
References
Designated as a Toxic Pollutant under Section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
Designated as a Hazardous Substances under CERCLA
Listing as a Hazardous Waste: Heavy ends from distillation of vinyl chloride monomer production
Listing as a Hazardous Waste: Discarded commercial chemical products offsperification species, container residues, and spill residues thereof
Listing as a Hazardous Constituent
Yes Yes Yes Yes
Yes
Designated as a Hazardous Air Pollutant under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act
Groundwater Monitoring Requirement
Yes Yes
Toxic Chemical Release Reporting; Community Right-to-Know
Yes
EPA 1979c M0 CFR 901,15); EPA 1979b
EPA 1985a (40 CFR 302); EPA 1987c
EPA 1981b (40 CFR 261.32); EPA 1981c
EPA 1981a (40 CFR 261.33); EPA 1980b
EPA 1988a (40 CFR 261. Appendix VIII); EPA 1988b
EPA 1975a (40 CFR 61.01); EPA 1975b
EPA 1987b (40 CFR 264, Appendix IX); EPA 1987c
EPA 1988c (40 CFR 372); EPA 1987f
TLVTWA STEL
RfC (Inhalation)
REL TWA (15 minutes) IDLH NIOSH recommends that vinyl chloride
be treated as an occupational carcinogen
MCLG Final Category
Health Advisories: 1-day (proposed) 10-day Longer-term (child) Longer-term (adult) Lifetime
10 mg/m3, 5 ppm ACGIH 1988 No data
No data
2.55 mg/m3 No data Yes
IRIS 1990 NIOSH 1985 NIOSH 1985
Zero I
2.6 mg/L 2.6 mg/L 0.013 mg/L 0.046 mg/L Not recommended
EPA 1989b (40 CFR 141,142); EPA 1987d
EPA 1987g
R&S 037983
"DRAFT FOR PUBUC COMMENT*"
106 7. REGULATIONS AND ADVISORIES
TABLE 7-1 (Continued)
Agency
Description
Information
References
NATIONAL (Cont.)
EPA OWRS
c. Other EPA
Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Protection of Human Hcalthc
Ingesting water and organisms: 10'5 10'6 10'7
Ingesting organisms only. 10'5 10* 6 10'7
Drinking water: 10"4 10'5 10'6
RfD (oral) Carcinogen classification Unit risk (inhalation)
Unit risk (oral)
20 gg/L 20 gg/L 0.2 gg/L
5,246 gg/L 525 gg/L 523 gg/L
12> Ag/L 0.15 gg/L 0.015 gg/L
No data A 8.4x10'5
(gg/m3)'1 5.4xl0'5
(Ag/L)
STATE
Regulations and Guidelines:
a. Air
Califomia-Momerey Connecticut Florida-Fort Lauderdale Kansas-Kansas City Kansas Massachusetts Massachusetts Maryland Maine Michigan North Carolina North Dakota Nevada New York Pennsytvania-Philadelphia Pennsytvania-Philadelphia South Carolina South Dakota Texas Texas Virginia Vermont
Acceptable Ambient Air Concentrations (NA) (8 hour) (8 hour) (Annual) (Annual) (24 hour) (Annual) (NA) (NA) (Annual) (Annual) (NA) (8 hour)
(1 y"r) (1 year) (Annual) (24 hour) (8 hour) (30 minutes) (Annual) (24 hour) (Annual)
0.00 50.0 gg/m3 0.10 mg/m3 0.244 gg/m3 3.85 gg/m3 3.47 gg/m3 038 gg/m3 0.0 0.0 0.4 gg/m3
0.00038 mg/m 0.0 0.238 mg/m3 0.400 gg/m3 237 ppb 2.40 ppb 50.0 gg/m3 50.0 gg/m3 100.0 gg/m3 10.0 gg/m3 130.0 gg/m3 0.20 gg/m3
EPA 1980c EPA 1980c EPA 1985b
IRIS 1990 EPA 1990 EPA 1990 EPA 1990
NATICH 1990
R&S 037984
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
Agency
STATE (Corn.)
Kentucky Montana
Alabama Arizona Colorado Delaware Florida Georgia Illinois Indiana Iowa Kentucky Louisiana Maryland Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska New Mexico North Carolina North Dakota Oklahoma Pennsylvania Tennessee Utah Virginia West Virginia Wisconsin
Arizona Connecticut Missouri New York Wisconsin
South Carolina
107 7. REGULATIONS AND ADVISORIES
TABLE 7-1 (Continued)
Description
Information
References
Ambient Air Emissions Limitations for Class I areas (24-hour average)
Designated as a Hazardous Air Pollutant and subject to regulations
15 ftg/m" 15 Ag/mJ
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Permit required to construct and operate an air contamination source project if yearly emissions exceed:
1 ton 1 ton 1 ton 1 ton 1 ton
Prevention of Significant Deterioration Adopted air pollution control standards found in EPA 1978 (40 CFR 52.21)
Yes
CELDS 1990 CELDS 1990 EPA 19S5d (40 CFR 61.01)
CELDS 1990 CELDS 1990
**DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
Co
cn
0379,
Agency
STATE (Corn.)
Delaware Louisiana Oregon Wisconsin Wisconsin
Wisconsin
b. Water
Arizona California Florida Kansas Massachusetts Maine Minnesota New Jersey New Mexico New York Rhode Island Vermont Oklahoma
Alabama Colorado Georgia Massachusetts Missouri New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Puerto Rico Rhode Islandd South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Wisconsin Wisconsin
108 7. REGULATIONS AND ADVISORIES
TABLE 7-1 (Continued)
Description
Information
References
Sources exempt from air monitoring requirements if net emissions increase is: (24 hour) (24 hour) (24 hour) (24 hour)
Hazardous Air Contaminants without Acceptable Ambient Concentrations requiring application of Lowest Achievable Emission Rates
Exemption from requirement of Construction or Modification and New Operation Permits for Air Pollution Sources if emissions do not exceed:
CELDS 1990
15 Ag/m3 15 Ag/m3 15 Ag/m3 15 Ag/m3 300 pounds/year
WAC 1988
1 ton/year
CELDS 1990
Drinking water quality guidelines and standards
MAL in drinking water MCL in drinking water
MCLG
1 Ag/L 2 Ag/L 1 Ag/L 1 Ag/L 1 Ag/L 2 Ag/L 0.15 Ag/L 2 Ag/L 1 Ag/L 5 Ag/L 0 Ag/L 1 Ag/L 0.002 mg/L
0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 10 ppb 0.002 rag/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.002 mg/L 0.0002 mg/L Zero
FSTRAC 1988
CELDS 1990 CELDS 1990
CELDS 1990
R&S 037986
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"
109 7. REGULATIONS AND ADVISORIES
TABLE 7-1 (Continued)
33
C/>
W -4 (O
CO -4
Agency
Description
Information
References
STATE (Cont.) New York Utah Wisconsin
c. Other Kentucky
Effluent standards: maximum allowable concentrations into saturated or unsaturated zones
Allowable concentration limits for Class GA waters
Ground Water Quality Standards Public Health Groundwater Quality
Standards: Enforcement Standard Preventative Action Limit Human Cancer Criteria Public Water Supply
Warm water sport fish communities Cold water communities Great Lakes communities Non-Water Supply Warm water sport fish communities Cold water communities Warm water forage and limited
forage fish communities and limited aquatic life
5.0 hg/L
5.0 hg/L 0.002 mg/L
0.015 pg/L 0.0015 ug/L
0.15 gg/L 0.15 hg/L 0.15 hg/L 10 hg/L 3.7 hg/L 30 <tg/L
Defined as hazardous waste
Yes
CELDS 1990 CELDS 1990 CELDS 1990 WAC 1985 WAC 1985 DNR 1987
NREPC 1988 (401 KAR 31:040)
aGroup 1: Carcinogenic to Humans bApplies to reactors, strippers, mixing, weighing and holding containers, and monomer recovery systems c Because of its carcinogenic potential, the EPA-recommended concentration for vinyl chloride in ambient water is zero. However, because attainment of this level may not be possible, levels which correspond to upper bound incremental lifetime cancer risks of 10'5, 10'*, and 10" 7 are estimated. ^Analysis for vinyl chloride is required only for groundwater systems that have detected one or more of the following: tetrachloroethylcne, trichloroethylene, 1,2-dichloroethanc, 1,1,1-trichlorocthanc, cis 1,2-dichlorocthylene, trans 1,2-diehloroethylene, or 1,1-dichloroethylcnc.
ACGIH = American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists; CERCLA = Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act; EPA = Environmental Protection Agency, FDA * Food and Drug Administration; IARC = International Agency for Research on Cancer; IDLH *= Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health Level; MAL = Maximum Allowable Level; MCL * Maximum Contaminant Level; MCLG = Maximum Contaminant Level Goal; NA = not applicable; NIOSH = National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; ODW = Office of Drinking Water, OERR = Office of Emergency and Remedial Response; OSHA = Occupational Safety and Health Administration; OSW = Office of Solid Wastes; OTS = Office of Toxic Substances; OWRS = Office of Water Regulations and Standards; PEL = Permissible Exposure Limit; REL = Recommended Exposure Limit; RfC * Reference Concentration; RfD = Reference Dose; RQ * Reportable Quantity; SDWA = Safe Drinking Water Act; STEL = Short Term Exposure Limit; TLV = Threshold Limit Value; TWA = Time-Weighted Average
***DF1AFT FOR PUBUC COMMENT***
Ill
8. REFERENCES
`ACGIH. 1986a. Threshold limit values and biological exposure indices. 5th ed. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Cincinnati, Ohio, 623-626.
ACGIH. 1986b. Threshold limit values for chemical substances in the work environment adopted by ACGIH with intended changes for 1986-87. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Cincinnati, Ohio, 33.
ACGIH. 1988. Threshold limit values and biological exposure indices for 1988-1989. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Cincinnati, Ohio.
`ACGIH. 1990. Threshold limit values and biological exposure indices for 1990-1991. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Cincinnati, Ohio.
`Adkins B Jr, Van Stee EW, Simmons JE, et al. 1986. Oncogenic response of strain A/J mice to inhaled chemicals. J Toxicol Environ Health 17:311-322.
`Amoore JE, Hautala E. 1983. Odor as an aid to chemical safety: Odor thresholds compared with threshold limit values and volatilities for 214 industrial chemicals in air and water dilution. J Appl Toxicol 3:272-290.
Anderson D, Richardson CR. 1981. Issues relevant to the assessment of chemically induced chromosome damage in vivo and their relationship to chemical mutagenesis. Mutat Res 90:261-272.
`Anderson D, Hodge MCE, Purchase IFH. 1976. Vinyl chloride: Dominant lethal studies in male CD-I mice. Mutat Res 40:359-370.
`Anderson D, Richardson CR, Weight TM, et al. 1980. Chromosomal analyses in vinyl chloride exposed workers: Results from analysis 18 and 42 months after an initial sampling. Mutat Res 79:151-162.
`Ando M, Sayato Y, 1984. Studies on vinyl chloride migration into drinking water from polyvinyl chloride pipe and reaction between vinyl chloride and chlorine. Water Res 18:315-318.
`Andrews AW, Zawistowski ES, Valentine CR. 1976. A comparison of the mutagenic properties of vinyl chloride and methyl chloride. Mutat Res 40:273-275.
Anonymous. 1989. Vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride: Toxicology. January 1978-February 1989 (Citations from the Life Sciences Collection Database). NTIS/PB89-855811, Issue 08.
Apfeldorf R, Infante PF, 1981. Review of epidemiologic study results of vinyl chloride-related compounds. Environ Health Perspect 41:221-226.*
*APHA. 1985. Standard methods for the examination of water and wastewater, 16th ed. American Public Health Association, American Water Works Association and Water Pollution Control Federation. Washington, DC, 591-602.
`Cited in text
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&s 037988
112 8. REFERENCES
*Atkinson R, Pitts JN Jr. 1977. Rate constants for the reaction of oxygen (3P) atoms with vinyl fluoride, vinyl chloride, and vinyl bromide over the temperature range 298-442K. J Chem Phys 67:2488-2491.
*Baker LW, MacKay KP. 1985. Hazardous waste management. Screening models for estimating toxic air pollution near a hazardous waste landfill. J Air Pollut Control Assoc 35:1190-1195.
Balkon J, Leary JA. 1979. An initial report on a comprehensive, quantitative screening procedure for volatile compounds of forensic and environmental interest in human biofluids by GC/MS. J Anal Toxicol 3:213-215.
*Bao Y-S. et al. 1988. [The effects of vinyl chloride on pregnancy, parturition, and fetal development among female workers.] Chin J Prev Med 22:343-346, (Chinese) [Translation in progress]
Barbin A, Bartsch H. 1989. Nucleophilic selectivity as a determinant of carcinogenic potency (TD50) in rodents: A comparison of mono- and bi-functional alkylating agents and vinyl chloride metabolites. Mutat Res 215:95-106.
*Barbin A. Besson F, Perrard MH, et al. 1985a. Induction of specific base-pair substitution in E. coli trpA mutants bv chloroethvlcne oxide, a carcinogenic vinyl chloride metabolite. Mutat Res 152:147-156.
Barbin A, Laib RJ. Bartsch H. 1985b. Lack of miscoding properties of 7-(2-oxoethyl)guanine, the major vinyl chloride-DNA adduct. Cancer Res 45:2440-2444.
Bardin C\V, Taketo T, Gunsalus GL, et al. 1982. The detection of agents that have toxic effects on the testis and male reproductive tract. In: Hunt VR, Smith MK, Worth D, cds. Environmental factors in human growth and development. Banbury Report No 11. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 337-354.
*Baretta ED, Stewart RD, Mutchler JE. 1969. Monitoring exposures to vinyl chloride vapor: Breath analysis and continuous air sampling. Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 30:537.
*Barncs DG, Dourson M. 1988. Reference dose (RfD): Description and use in health risk assessments. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 8:471-486.
Barriolage GA, Parsons FZ, Narbaitz RM, et al. 1990. Enhanced anaerobic biodegradation of vinyl chloride in groundwater. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry 9:403-415.
*Bartsch H. 1976. Predictive value of mutagenicity test in chemical carcinogenesis. Mutat Res 38:177-190.
*Bartsch H, Malavcilie C, Montesano R. 1975. Human, rat and mouse liver-mediated mutagenicity of vinyl chloride in S. tvphimurium strain. Int J Cancer 15:429-437.
Bartsch H, Malaveille C, Montesano R. 1976. The predictive value of tissue-mediated mutagenicity assays to assess the carcinogenic risk of chemicals. LARC Sci Publ 12:467-491.
Baxter PJ. 1976. Clinical aspects of vinyl chloride disease: Epidemiological studies of PVC manufacturers and fabricators, and primary angiosarcoma of the liver. Proc Soc Med 69:279-299.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037989
R&S 037990
113 8 REFERENCES
Beaumont JJ, Breslow NE. 1981. Power considerations in epidemiologic studies of vinvi chloride workers. Am J Epidemiol 114:725-734.
Beauregard RR. 1987. Defining landfill toxics: California SWATS wastes. The Management of World Wastes 30:24-25.
Bedard RG. 1976. Biodegradabilitv of organic compounds. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Washington, D.C., 94. NTIS PB-264707.
''Belli S, Bertazzi PA, Comba P, et al. 1987. A cohort study on vinyl chloride manufacturers in Italy: Study design and preliminary results. Cancer Lett 35:253-261.
Bencko V, Wagner V, Wagnerov'a M, et al. 1988. Immunobiochemical profiles of workers differing in the degree of occupational exposure to vinyl chloride. J Hyg Epidemiol Microbiol Immunol 32:375-384.
Berens AR, Daniels CA. 1976. Prediction of vinyl chloride monomer migration from rigid PVC pipe. Polymer Engineering and Science 16:15-21.
Berk PD. 1976. Vinyl chloride-associated liver disease. Ann Int Med 84:717-731.
*Berk PD, Martin JF, Waggoner JG. 1975. Persistence of vinyl chloride induced liver injury after cessation of exposure. Ann NY Acad Sci 31:70-77.
Betz WR, Maroldo SG, Wachob GD. 1989. Characterization of carbon molecular sieves and activated charcoal for use in airborne contaminant sampling. Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 50:181-187.
*Bi W, Wang Y, Huang M, et al. 1985. Effect of vinyl chloride on testis in rats. Ecotoxicol Environ Safety 10:281-289.
*Black C, Pereira S, McWhirtcr A, et al. 1986. Genetic susceptibility to scleroderma-like syndrome in symptomatic and asymptomatic workers exposed to vinyl chloride. J Rheumatol 13:1059-1062.
* Black CM, Welsh KI, Walker AE, et al. 1983. Genetic susceptibility to scleroderma-like syndrome induced by vinyl chloride. Lancet 1:53-55.
*Bogdanikowa B, Zawilska J, 1984. Immune complexes in the serum of patients occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride. Przeglad Lekarski 41:253-257.
Bolt HM. 1978. Pharmacokinetics of vinyl chloride. Gen Pharmacol 9:91-95.
*Bolt HM. 1986. Metabolic activation of vinyl chloride, formation of nucleic acid adducts and relevance to carcinogenesis. LARC Sci Publ 70:261-268.
*Bolt HM. 1988. Roles of etheno-DNA adducts in tumorigenicity of olefins. Critical Reviews in Toxicology 18:299-309.
Bolt HM, Filser JG, Buchter A. 1981. Inhalation pharmacokinetics based on gas uptake studies: 3. A pharmacokinetic assessment in man of peak concentrations of vinyl chloride. Arch of Toxicology 48:213-228.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"*
R&S 037991
114 8. REFERENCES
*BoIt HM, Filser JG, Laib RJ, et al. 1980. Binding kinetics of vinyl chloride and vinyl bromide at very low doses. In: Quantitative aspects of risk assessment in chemical carcinogenesis. Arch Toxicol Suppl 3:129-142. *Bolt HM, Kappus H, Buchter A, et al. 1976a. Disposition of (1,214C) vinyl chloride in the rat. Arch Toxicol 35:153-162. Bolt HM, Kappus H, Kaufmann R, et al. 1976b. Metabolism of 14C-vinyl chloride in vitro and in vivo. INSERM Symposia Series, LARC Scientific Publications N 13. 1NSERM 52:151-164.
*Bolt HM, Laib RJ, Kappus H, et al. 1977. Pharmacokinetics of vinyl chloride in the rat. Toxicology 7:179-188. *Bolt HM, Laib RJ, Peter H, et al. 1986. DNA adducts of halogenated hydrocarbons. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 112:92-96. Bond GG, McLaren EA, Cartmill JB, et al. 1987. Cause-specific mortality among male chemical workers. Am J Ind Med 12:353-383. *BozzeIIi JW, Kebbekus BB, 1979. Analysis of selected volatile organic substances in ambient air, final report Apr-Nov 1978. NJ Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ, 80.
Brooks SM. 1982. Pulmonary manifestations of vinyl and polyvinyl chloride. Comments. Chest 81:262-264.
Brugnami G, Abbritti G, Morelli A, et al. 1988. Liver angiosarcoma in a vinyl chloride polymerization plant worker: Report of the seventh Italian case. Med Lav 79:34-41.
*Bryen D, Engholm G, Englund A, et al. 1976. Mortality and cancer morbidity in a group of Swedish VCM and PCV production workers. Environ Health Perspect 17:167-170. *Buchter A, Bolt HM, Kappus H, et al. 1977. [Tissue distribution of l,2-14C-vinyi chloride in the rat.] Int Arch Occup Environ Health 39:27-32. (German) [Translation in progress]
*Buchter A, Filser JG, Peter H, et al. 1980. Pharmacokinetics of vinyl chloride in the rhesus monkey. Toxicol Lett 6:33-36. *Burmaster DE. 1982. The new pollution groundwater contamination. Environ 24:6-13, 33-36.
*C&EN. 1987. Key Chemicals: Vinyl chloride. Chemical and Engineering News 65:10
*Callahan MA, Slimak MS, Gabel NW, et al. 1979. Water-related environmental fate of 129 priority pollutants. Volume II. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington. DC. EPA-440/4-79-0298.
*Carassiti V, Chiorboli C, Bignozzi CA, et al. 1978. Atmospheric photooxidation of vinyl chloride: A generalized treatment of the relative rates of product formation. Ann Chim 67:499-512.
*Carr J, Burgison RM, Vitcha JF, et al. 1949. Anesthesia: XXIV. Chemical constitution of hydrocarbons and cardiac automaticity. J Pharmacol Expd Ther 97:1.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037992
115 8. REFERENCES
*CELDS. 1990. Computer-Environmental Legislative Data Systems. University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois. June 28, 1990.
Chieco P, Normanni P, Moslen MT, et al. 1986. Quantitative histochemistry of benzaldehyde dehydrogenase in hepatocellular carcinomas of vinyl chloride-treated rats. J Histochem Cytochem 34:151-158.
*Chudy JC, Crosby NT. 1977. Some observations on the determination of monomer residues in foods. Food Cosmet Toxicol 15:547-551.
Chung C-S, Keh DCT. 1987. Angiosarcoma of the liver with metastasis: Report of a case. J Formosan Med Assoc 86:1312-1315.
*Ciroussel F, Barbin A, Eberle G, et al. 1990. Investigations on the relationship between DNA ethenobase adduct levels in several organs of vinyl chloride-exposed rats and cancer susceptibility. Biochem Pharmacol 39:1109-1113.
Cline PV, Viste DR. 1985. Migration and degradation patterns of volatile organic compounds. Waste Manage Res 3:351-360.
*CLPSD. 1989. Contract Laboratories Program Statistical Database. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC. July 1989.
CMA. 1979. Vinyl chloride pathology report. Report to Chemical Manufacturers Association, Washington, DC by Experimental Pathology Laboratories.
CMA. 1980. Pathology report on the brains from mice, hamsters, and rats exposed to vinyl chloride in IBT study 663-03222. Report to Chemical Manufacturers Association, Washington, DC by Experimental Pathology Laboratories. EPA/OTS Public Files. Fiche No. 0000065-0 (4).
CMA. 1986a. Draft report-epidemiology study of vinyl chloride workers. Report to Chemical Manufacturers Association, Washington, DC by Environmental Health Associates, Oakland, CA. EPA/OTS Public Files. 8EHQ-0986-0629. Fiche No. 0510570 (3).
CMA. 1986b. An update of an epidemiologic study of vinyl chloride workers (1942-1982). Report to Chemical Manufacturers Association, Washington, DC by Environmental Health Associates, Oakland, CA. EPA/OTS Public Files. FYI-OTS-1086-0509. Fiche No. 0000509-1 (1).
*CMR. 1981. Chemical profile: Vinyl chloride, June 1, 1981, Chemical Marketing Reporter, New York, NY: Schnell Pub. Co., 9.
*CMR. 1983. Chemical profile: Vinyl chloride. June 20, 1983. Chemical Marketing Reporter, New York, NY: Schnell Pub. Co., 66.
CMR. 1986a. Chemical profile: Polyvinyl chloride. June 9, 1986. Chemical Marketing Reporter, New York, NY: Schnell Pub. Co., 50.*
*CMR. 1986b. Chemical profile: Vinyl chloride. June 2, 1986. Chemical Marketing Reporter, New York, NY: Schnell Pub. Co., 50, 15,
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037993
116 8. REFERENCES
*CMR. 1989. Chemical profile: Vinyl chloride. May 29, 1989. Chemical Marketing Reporter, New York, NY: Schnell Pub. Co., 46, 44.
Cone JE, Harrison R, Reiter R. 1987. Patients with multiple chemical sensitivities: Clinical diagnostic subsets among an occupational health clinic population. Occup Med-State of the Art Rev 2:721-738.
*Coniglio WA, Miller K, MacKeever D. 1980. The occurrence volatile organics in drinking water. Criteria and Standards Division. Science and Technology Branch. Exposure Assessment Project.
"Conkle JP, Camp BJ, Welch BE. 1975. Trace composition of human respiratory gas. Arch Environ Health 30:290-295.
*Conolly RB, Jaeger RJ. 1979, Acute hepatotoxicity of vinyl chloride and ethylene: Modification by trichloropropane oxide, diethylmaleate, and cysteine. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 50:523-531.
`Conolly RB, Jaeger RJ, Szabo S. 1978. Acute hepatotoxicity of ethylene, vinyl fluoride, vinyl chloride, and vinyl bromide after aroclor 1254 pretreatment. Exp Mol Pathol 28:25-33.
tCooper WC. 1981. Epidemiologic study of vinyl chloride workers: Mortality through December 31, 1972. Environ Health Perspect 41:101-106.
Cordasco EM, Demeter SL, Kerkay J, et al. 1980. Pulmonary manifestations of vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride (interstitial lung disease): Newer aspects. Chest 78:828-834.
*Cotruvo JA. 1985. Organic micropollutants in drinking water. Sci Total Environ 47:7-26.
Cotti G, Valgimigli L, Mandrioli A, et al. 1983. Suitable models for long-term bioassays of therapeutic and toxic effects of antiblastic drugs. Brain tumors of neuronal cells and primitive bipotential precursors produced in sprague-dawley rats by vinyl chloride. Dev Oncol 15:376*378.
`Cowfer JA, Magistro AJ. 1983. Vinyl chloride. In: Kirk-Othmer encyclopedia of chemical technology. Vol. 23. Wiley Intersciencc, New York, NY, 865-885.
*Cowfer JA, Magistro AJ. 1985. Vinyl polymers: Vinyl chloride. In: Kirk-Othmer concise encyclopedia of chemical technology. John Wiley and Sons, Inc., New York, NY, 1229-1230,
*Cox RA, Enggleton AEJ, Sandalls FJ. 1974. Photochemical reactivity of vinyl chloride. AERE-R7820. Are Harwell, Oxforshire, England. 16.
*Creech JL, Johnson MN. 1974. Angiosarcoma of liver in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride. J Occup Med 16:150-151.
Curry S, Rich S. 1980. The Kline guide to the chemical industry. 4th ed., Charles H, Kline and Co., Fairfield, N.Y,
Czirjak L, Bokk A, Csonton G, et al. 1989. Clinical findings in 61 patients with progressive systemic sclerosis. Acta Dermato-Venereol 69:533-536.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037994
117 8. REFERENCES
Dahar WS, Bond GG. McLaren EA. et al. 1988. Update to vinyl chloride mortality study. J Occup. Med 30:64S*649.
'Danziger H. 1960. Accidental poisoning by vinyl chloride: Report of two cases. Can Med Assoc J 82:828.
Davies MFP, Curtis M. Howat JMT. 1990. Cutaneous hemangioendothelioma: A possible link with chronic exposure to vinyl chloride. Br J Ind Med 47:65-67.
*de Jong G, van Sittcrt NJ. Natarajan AT. 1988. Cytogenetic monitoring of industrial populations potentially exposed to genotoxic chemicals and of control populations. Mutat Res 204:451-464.
*de Meester C, Duverger-van Bogaert M, Lambotte-Vandepaer M, et al. 1980. Mutagenicity of vinyl chloride in the Ames test. Possible artifacts related to experimental conditions. Mutat Res 77:175-179.
Delassus PT, Schmidt DD. 1981. Solubilities of vinyl chloride and vinylidinc chloride in water, J Chem Eng Data 26:274-276.
Denenberg BA, Miller RW, Kriesel RS. 1975. Instrumentation for continuous VCM monitoring. Am Laboratory 7:49-57.
Dilling WL, Bredeqeg CJ, Tcfertiller NB. 1976. Organic photochemistry. XIII. Simulated atmospheric photodecomposition rates of methylene chloride, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene and other chlorinated compounds in dilute aqueous solutions. Environ Sci Technol 10:351-356.
*Dinman BD, Cook WA, Whitehouse WM, et al. 1971. Occupational acroostcolysis. I. An epidemiological study. Arch Environ Health 22:61-73.
*DNR. 1987. Department of Natural Resouces, Wisconsin. Order of the state of Wisconsin natural resources board repealing, renumbering, renumbering and amending, amending repealing and recreating, and creating rules. Section 27, Chapter NR 105. Surface Water Quality Criteria for Toxic Substances.
Doll R. 1988. Effects of exposure to vinyl chloride: An assessment of the evidence. Scand J Work Environ Health 14:61-78.
Doss MO. 1987. Porphyrinurias and occupational disease. Ann NY Acad Sci 514:204-218.
Doss M, Lange CE, Veltman G. 1984. Vinyl chloride-induced hepatic coproporphyrinuria with transition to chronic hepatic porphyria. Klin Wochcnschr 62:175-178.
Dow Chemical Company. 1988. Comments of the Dow Chemical Company on ATSDR's toxicological profile for vinyl chloride. Midland, Mich. April 21, 1988.
Draminski W, Trojanowska B. 1981. Chromatographic determination of thiodiglycolic acid--a metabolite of vinyl chloride. Arch Toxicol 48:289-292.
*Dressman RC, McFarren EF. 1978. Determination of vinyl chloride migration from polyvinyl chloride pipe into water. Am Water Works Assoc Jour 70:29.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 037995
118 8. REFERENCES
Drevon C, Kuroki T. 1979. Mutagenicity of vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride and chloroprene in V79 Chinese hamster cells. Mutat Res 67:173-182.
*Drew RT, Boorman GA, Haseman JK, et al. 1983. The effect of age and exposure duration on cancer induction by a known carcinogen in rats, mice, and hamsters. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 68:120-130.
Drury JS, Hammons AS. 1979., Investigations of selected environmental pollutants: 1,2-Dichloroethane. EPA-560/2-78-0006.
*Du JT, Sandoz JP, Tseng MT, et al. 1979. Biochemical alterations in livers of rats exposed to vinyl chloride. J Toxicol Environ Health 5:1119-1132.
*Ducatman A, Hirschhorn K, Selikoff IJ. 1975. Vinyl chloride exposure and human chromosome aberrations. Mutat Res 31:163-168.
*Duprat P, Fabry JP, Gradiski D, et al. 1977. Metabolic approach to industrial poisoning: Blood kinetics and distribution of 14C-vinyl chloride (VCM). Acta Pharmacol Toxicol Supp (Kbh) 41:142-143.
*Dyksen JE, Hess AF III. 1982. Alternatives for controlling organics in groundwater supplies. J Am Water vVorks Assoc 74:394-403.
Eberle G, Barbin A, Laib RJ, et al. 1989. l,N6-etheno-2'-deoxyadenosine and 3,N4-ethcno-2'-deoxycytidine ;tected by monoclonal antibodies in lung and liver DNA of rats exposed to vinyl chloride. Carcinogenesis 1:209-212.
^Edmonds LD, Anderson CE, Flynt JW, et al. 1978. Congenital central nervous system malformations and vinyl chloride monomer exposure: A community study. Teratology 17:137-142.
^Edmonds LD, Falk H, Nissim JE. 1975. Congenital malformations and vinyl chloride. Lancet; ii:1098.
*Eisenreich SJ, Looney BB, Thornton JD. 1981. Airborne organic contaminants in the Great Lakes ecosystem. Environ Sci Technol 15:30-38.
*Elmore JD, Wong JL, Laumbach AD, et al. 1976. Vinyl chloride mutagenicity via the metabolites chlorooxirane and chloroacetaldehyde monomer hydrate. Biochem Biophys Acta 442:405-419.
*EPA, 1974a. Occupational safety and health standards: Vinyl chloride. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 21 CFR 1910.1017.
*EPA, 1974b. Standard for exposure to vinyl chloride. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 39(194): 35896-35898.
*EPA. 1975a. National emission standards for hazardous air pollutants. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 21 CFR 61.01.*
*EPA. 1975b. National emission standards for hazardous air pollutants: Proposed standard for vinyl chloride. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 40(248): 59532-59552.
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT**'
119 8. REFERENCES
'EPA. 1977a. Indirect food additives: Adhesives and components of coatings. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 21 CFR 175.105.
*EPA. 1977b. Indirect food additives: Adhesives and components of coatings. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 42(50): 14534-14554.
*EPA. 1977c. Indirect food additives: Adhesives and components of coatings, paper and paperboard components, polymers. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 21 CFR 175, 176, 177.
*EPA. 1978. Prevention of significant deterioration of air quality. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 52,21.
*EPA. 1979a. Formulation of preliminary assessment of halogenated organic compounds in man and environmental media. Research Triangle Park, NC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA/560/13-79-006.
*EPA. 1979b. Identification of conventional pollutants. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 44(147): 44501-44503.
*EPA. 1979c. Toxic pollutants. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 401.15.
*EPA. 1980a. Ambient water quality criteria for vinyl chloride". Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Environmental Criteria and Assessment Office. EPA 440/5-80-078. NTIS PB 81-117889.
*EPA. 1980b. Hazardous waste management system: Identification and listing of hazardous waste, interim rule. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 45(229): 78530-78550.
*EPA. 1980c. Water quality criteria documents. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 45(231): 79340.
*EPA. 1981a. Discarded commercial chemical products, off-specification species, container residues, and spill residues thereof. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 261.33.
*EPA. 1981b. Hazardous waste from specific sources. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 261.32.
*EPA. 1981c. Hazardous waste management system: Identification and listing of hazardous waste, final rule. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 46(11): 4614-4620.
*EPA. 1982a. Aquatic fate process data for organic priority pollutants. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water Regulations and Standards.
Washington, DC: U.S.
EPA. 1982b. Emission standard for ethylene dichloride, vinyl chloride, and polyvinyl choride. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 61.65.
R&S 037996
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
120
8. REFERENCES
EPA. 1982c. Identification and listing of hazardous waste. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 261, Append VIII.
*EPA. 1982d. Methods for organic chemical analysis of municipal and industrial wastewater. Test method: Purgeable halocarbons - method 601 and Purgeable - Method 624. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory, EPA 600/4-82-057, 601-1 to 601-10 and 624-1 to 624-12.
*EPA. 1982e. Test methods for evaluating solid waste. Physical/chemical methods. Method 8010 Halogenated volatile organics. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, 8010-1 to 8010-12.
EPA. 1984. Health effects assessment for vinyl chloride. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Environmental Criteria and Assessment Office. EPA 540/1-86-036.
*EPA. 1985a. Designation, reportable quantities, and notification. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 302.
*EPA. 1985b. Drinking water criteria document for vinyl chloride. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Drinking Water. NTIS PB86-118320.
*EPA. 1985c. Health and environmental effects profile for chloroethene. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Environmental Criteria and Assessment Office. ECAO-CIN-P155.
*EPA. 1985d. Lists of pollutants and applicability of part 61. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 61.01.
*EPA. 1986a. Determination of reportable quantities for hazardous substances. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 117.
*EPA. 1986b. Emission standard for vinyl chloride plants. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 61.63.
*EPA. 1986c. Emission standard for vinyl chloride plants. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 51(189): 34909.
EPA. 1986d. The total exposure assessment methodology (TEAM) study. Final report. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Environmental Monitoring Systems Division. RTI/2391/00-03F.
EPA. 1987a. Graphical exposure modelling syst.em (GEMS). CLOGP. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Toxic Substances.
*EPA. 1987b. Ground-water monitoring list. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 264, Appendix IX.
*EPA. 1987c. List (phase 1) of hazardous constituents for ground-water monitoring. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 52(131): 25942-25952.
R&S 037997
"'DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*'*
' 21
6 REFERENCES
*EPA. 1987d. National primary drinking water regulations- Synthetic organic chemicals: Monitoring for unregulated contaminants. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 52(130): 25690-25717,
*EPA. 1987e. Reportable quantity adjustments. U.S. Environmental Protection Agencv. Federal Register 52(50): 8140-8186.
*EPA. 1987f. Toxic chemical release reporting: Community right-to-know. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 52(107): 21152-21208.
EPA. 1987g. Vinyl chloride health advisory. Draft. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Drinking Water.
*EPA. 1988a. Hazardous constituents. U.S. Environmental Protection Agencv. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 261, Appendix VIII.
*EPA. 1988b. Hazardous waste management system: Identification and listing of hazardous waste, technical corrections. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register 53(78): 13382-13393.
*EPA. 1988c. Toxic chemical release reporting: Community right-to-know. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 372.
*EPA. 1989a. Interim methods for development of inhalation reference doses. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA/600/8-88/066F.
*EPA. 1989b. National primary drinking water regulations. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR 141, 142, 143.
'EPA. 1990. Health effects assessment summary tables: Fourth quarter FY-1990. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Health and Environmental Assessment, Environmental Assessment and Criteria Office.
'Eveleth WT, Kollonitsch V, Slater K, eds. 1990. Kline guide to the U.S. chemical industry. 5th ed. Fairfield, NJ: Kline & Co. 196-201.
Falk H, Waxweiler RJ. 1976. Clinical aspects of vinyl chloride disease: Epidemiological studies of vinyl chloride health effects in the United States. Proc R Soc Med 69:303-306.
*Falk H, Creech JL Jr, Heath CW Jr, et al, 1974. Hepatic disease among workers at a vinyl chloride polymerization plant. J Am Med Assoc 230:59-63.
Farkas DF. 1980. Food Processing. In Kirk-Othmer encyclopedia of chemical technology, Vol. 11. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 180-181.
'FDA. 1986. Proposed uses of vinyl chloride polymers. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration. Federal Register 51:4177-4185.
*FEDRIP. 1990. Federal Research in Progress: Vinyl chloride. Dialog Information Services, Inc. December 1990.
DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
*4s
122 8. REFERENCES
*Feron VJ, Kroes R. 1979. One-year time-sequence inhalation toxicity study of vinyl chloride in rats. II. Morphological changes in the respiratory tract, ceruminous glands, brain, kidneys, heart and spleen. Toxicology 13:131-141.
*Feron VJ, Hendriksen CFM, Speek AJ, et al. 1981. Lifespan oral toxicity study of vinyl chloride in rats. Food Cosmet Toxicol 19:317-333.
*Feron VJ, Kruysse A, Til HP. 1979a. One-year time-sequence inhalation toxicity study of vinyl chloride in rats. I. Growth, mortality, haematology, clinical chemistry, and organ weights. Toxicol 13:25-35.
Feron VJ, Speek AJ, Willems MI, et al. 1975. Observations on the oral administration and toxicity of vinyl chloride in rats. Food Cosmet Toxicol 13:633-638.
*Feron VJ, Spit BJ, Immel HR, et al. 1979b. One-year time-sequence inhalation toxicity study of vinyl chloride in rats. 111. Morphological changes in the liver. Toxicol 13:143-154.
Feron VJ, Woutersen RA, Spit BJ. 1986. Pathology of chronic nasal toxic responses including cancer. Chem Ind Inst Toxicol Ser 7:67-89
*Filser JG, Bolt HM. 1979. Pharmacokinetics of halogenated clhyienes in rats. Arch Toxicol 42:123-136.
*Fishbein L. 1979. Potential halogenated industrial carcinogenic and mutagenic chemicals. I. Halogenated unsaturated hydrocarbons. Sci Total Environ 11:111-161.
*Fire FL. 1986. Vinyl chloride. Fire Engineering 139:39-43.
Fitzgerald EJ, Griffiths TM. 1987. Computed tomography of vinyl chloride induced angiosarcoma of liver. Br J Radiol 60:593-595.
Fogel MM, Taddeo AR, Fogel S. 1986. Biodegradation of chlorinated ethenes by a methane-utilizing mixed culture. AppI Environ Microbiol 51:720-724.
Forbes A, Portmann B, Johnson P, et al. 1987. Hepatic sarcomas in adults: A review of 25 cases. Gut 28:668-674.
*Fox AJ, Collier PF. 1977. Mortality experience of workers exposed to vinyl chloride monomer in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride in Great Britain. Br J Ind Med 34:110.
*Freitag D, Ballhorn L, Geyer H, et al. 1985. Environmental hazard profile of organic chemicals. Chemosphere 14:1589-1616.
Freitag D, Lay JP, Korte F. 1984. Environmental hazard profile-test results as related to structures and translation into the environment. In: Kaiser KLE, ed., QSAR Environ Toxicol Proc Workshop Quant Struct Act Relat., Dordrecht, Neth: Reidel, Pp. 111-136.
*Freudiger H, Bounameaux H, Garcia J. 1988. Acroosteolysis and Raynaud's phenomenon after vinyl chloride exposure. Vasa 17:216-218.
""DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
8. REFERENCES
38OOo
Friedman LC, Schroder LJ, Brooks MG. 1986. Recovery of several volatile organic compounds from simulated water samples: Effect of transport and storage. Environ Sci Technol 20:826-829.'
*FSTRAC. 1988. Summary of state and federal drinking water standards and guidelines, March, i988. Federal-State Toxicology and Regulatory Alliance Committee, Chemical Communication Subcommittee.
`Fucic A, Horvat D, Dimitrovic B. 1990. Localization of breaks induced by vinyl chloride in the human chromosomes of lymphocytes. Mutat Res 243:95-99.
Fuerst RG, Logan TJ, Midgett MR, et al. 1989, Sampling and analysis experiments for improved characterization of products of incomplete combustion. J Air Pollut Control Assoc 39:969-974,
Fujimoto T, Rennert AM, Wijnen MHJ. 1970. Primary steps in the photolysis of vinyl chloride. Ber Bunsenges Phys Chem 74:282-286.
`Funes-Cravioto F, Lambert B, Lindsten J, et al. 1975. Chromosome aberrations in workers exposed to vinyl chloride. Lancet 1:459.
Gagnon C. 1988. The role of environmental toxins in unexplained male infertility. Semin Rcprod Endocrinol 6:369-376.
`Gamble J, Liu S, McMichael AJ, et al. 1976. Effect of occupational and nonoccupational factors on the respiratory system of vinyl chloride and other workers. J Occup Med lS:659-670.
`Gedigke P, Muller R, Bechtelsheimer H. 1975. Morphology of liver damage among polyvinyl chloride production workers. A report on 51 cases. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:279-285.
Gehring PJ, Watanabe, PG, Park CN. 1978. Resolution of dose-response toxicity data for chemicals requiring metabolic activation: Example-vinyl chloride. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 44:581-591.
Gelin M, Van de Stadt J, Rickaert F, et al. 1989. Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma of the liver following contact with vinyl chloride: Recurrence after orthotopic liver transplantation. J Hepatol 8:99-106.
Geryk E, Zudova Z. 1986. [Vinyl chloride as occupational health hazard.] Pracov Lek 38:1-8. (Czechoslovakian)
Gholson AR, Storm JF, Jayanty RKM, et al. 1989. Evaluation of canisters for measuring emissions of volatile organic air pollutants from hazardous waste incineration. J Air Pollut Control Assoc 39:1210-1217.
`Gilbert SG, Miltz J, Giacin JR. 1980. Transport considerations of potential migrants from food packaging materials. J Food Process Preserv 4:27-49.
Gleichmann E, Kimber I, Purchase IFH. 1989. Immunotoxicology: Suppressive and stimulatory effects of drugs and environmental chemicals on the immune system a discussion. Arch Toxicol 63:257-273.
`Goodenkauf O, Atkinson JC. 1986. Occurrence of volatile organic chemicals in Nebraska groundwater. Ground Water 24:231-233.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
8. REFERENCES
''Gordon SJ, Meeks SA. 1977, A study of gaseous pollutants in the Houston, Texas area. AICHE Symp Ser 73:84-94. Gosselin RE, Smith RP, Hodge HC. 1984. Clinical toxicology of commercial products, 5th ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins. 11-166.
Gossett RW, Brown DA, Young DR. 1983. Predicting the bioaccumulation of organic compounds in marine organisms using octanol/water partition coefficients. Mar Pollut Bull 14:387-392.
Graedel TE. 1978. Chemical compounds in the atmosphere. Academic Press, New York, NY. 1148.
*Grainger RG, Walker AE, Ward AM. 1980. Vinyl chloride monomer-induced disease: Clinical, radiological, and immunological aspects. In: Induced Disease, Drug Irradiation. Occupation. Preger L., ed. Grune and Stratton, New York, 191-214,
*Green T, Halhway DE. 1975. The biological fate in rats of vinyl chloride in relation to its oncogenicity. Chem Biol Interact 11:545-562.
*Green T, Hathway DE. 1977. The chemistry and biogenesis of the S-containing metabolites of vinyl chloride in rats. Chem Biol Interact 17:137-150.
Green T, Hathway DE. 1978. Interactions of vinyl chloride with rat-liver DNA in vivo. Chem Biol Interact 22:211-224.
Greim H, Bonse G, Radwan Z, cl al. 1975. Mutagenicity in vitro and potential carcinogenicity of chlorinated ethylenes as a function of metabolic oxirane formation. Biochem Pharmacol 24:2013-2017.
*Grimsrud EP, Rasmussen RA. 1975a. The analysis of chlorofluorocarbons in the troposphere by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Atmos Environ 9:1010-1013.
*Grimsrud EP, Rasmussen RA, 1975b. Survey and analysis of halocarbons in the atmosphere by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Atmos Environ 9:1014-1017.
Guengerich FP. 1982. Metabolism of vinyl halides: In vitro studies on roles of potential activated metabolites. Biological reactive intermediates II. Proceedings of the Second International Symposium, Chemical Mechanisms and Biological Effects. Part A, Plenum Press, New York, 685-692.
Guengerich FP. 1986. Covalent binding to apoprotein is a major fate of heme in a variety of reactions in which cytochrome P-450 is destroyed. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 16:193-198.
^Guengerich FP, Watanabe PG. 1979. Metabolism of (14C)- and (36CI)-labclcd vinyl chloride in vivo and in vitro. Biochem Pharmacol 28:589-596. "Guengerich FP, Crawford WM, Jr, Watanabe PG. 1979. Activation of vinyl chloride to covalently bound metabolites: Roles of 2-chlorocthvlene oxide and 2-chloroacetaldehvde. Biochemistry 18:5177-5182.
'"DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
125 6 REFERENCES
`Guengerich FP, Mason PS, Stott \VJ. et al. 1981, Roles of 2-haloethylene oxide and 2-haloaceialdehvdes derived from vinyl bromide and vinvi chloride in irreversible binding to protein and DNA. Cancer Res 41:4391-4398.
`Gwinner LM, Laib RJ, Filser JG. et al. 1983. Evidence of chloroethylene oxide being the reactive metabolite of vinyl chloride towards DNA: Comparative studies with 2,2'-dichlorodiethyI ether. Carcinogenesis 4:1483-1486.
Hagmar L, Akesson B, Nielson J, et al. 1990. Mortality and cancer morbidity in workers exposed to low levels of vinyl chloride monomer at a polyvinyl chloride processing plant. Am J Ind Med 17:553-565.
`Hansteen IL, Hillestad L, Thiis-Evensen E, et al. 1978. Effects of vinyl chloride in man: A cytogenetic follow-up study. Mutat Res 51:271-278.
"Harkov R, Kebbekus B, Bozzelli J\V, et al. 1983. Measurement of selected volatile organic compounds at three locations in New Jersey during the summer season. J Air Pollut Control Assoc 33:1177-1183.
"Harkov R, Kebbekus B, Bozzelli JW, et al. 1984. Comparison of selected volatile organic compounds during the summer and winter at urban sites in New Jersey. Sci Total Environ 38:259-274.
Harkov R, Kebbekus B, Bozzelli JW. 1987. Volatile organic compounds at urban sites in New Jersey. In: Lioy PJ, Daisey JM, cds., Toxic Air Pollution: A Comprehensive study of Non-Criteria Air Pollutants. Lewis Publishers, Inc., Chelsea, Michigan, 67-90.
`Harris DK. 1953. Health problems in the manufacture and use of plastics. Br J Ind Med 10:255.
`Harris DK, Adams WGF. 1967. Acroosteolysis occurring in men engaged in the polymerization of vinyl chloride. Br Med J 3:712.
`Harsch DE, Cronn DR, Slater WR. 1979. Expanded list of halogcnated hydrocarbons measurable in ambient air. J Air Pollut Control Assoc 29:975-976.
`Hartmans S, deBont JAM, Tramper J, ct al. 1985. Bacterial degradation of vinvi chloride. Biotech Letters 7:383-386.
`Hasanen E, Soininen V, Pyysalo H, et al. 1979. On the occurrence of aliphatic chlorine and bromine compounds in automobile exhaust. Atmos Environ 13:1217-1219.
`Hatch M, Kline J, Stein Z. 1981. Power considerations in studies of reproductive effects of vinyl chloride and some structural analogs. Environ Health Perspect 41:195-201.
`Heath CW Jr, Fable H, Creech JL Jr. 1975. Characteristics of cases of angiosarcoma of the liver among vinyl chloride workers in the United States. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:231-236.
`Hedley WH, Cheng JT, McCormick RJ, et al. 1976. Sampling of automobile interiors for vinyl chloride monomer. EPA-600/2-76-124. NTIS PB-258648.
`"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038003
126 8. REFERENCES
'Hefner RE Jr, Watanabe PG, Gehring PJ. 1975a. Percutaneous absorption of vinyl chloride. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 34:529-532,
*Hefner RE Jr, Watanabe PG, Gehring PJ. 1975b. Preliminary studies of the fate of inhaled vinyl chloride monomer in rats. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:135-148.
'Hehir RM, McNamara BP, McLaughlin J, Jr, et al. 1981. Cancer induction following single and multiple exposures to a constant amount of vinyl chloride monomer. Environ Health Perspect 41:63-72.
*Heldaas SS, Andersen AA, Langard S. 1987. Incidence of cancer among vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride workers: Further evidence for an association with malignant melanoma. Br J Ind Med 44:278-280.
'Heldaas SS, Langard SL, Andersen A. 1984. Incidence of cancer among vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride workers. Br J Ind Med 41:25-30.
*Helfgott TB, Hart FL, Bedard RG. 1977. An index of refractory organics. Ada, OK: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA-600/2-77-174.
'Hill J IV, Kollig HP, Paris DF, et al. 1976. Dynamic behavior of vinyl chloride in aquatic ecosystems. EPA-600/3-76-00-1. (NTIS PB-249 302). Environmental Research Lab., Athens, GA,
'Hoffman D, Patrianakos C, Brunnemann KD, et al. 1976. Chromatographic determination of vinyl chloride in tobacco smoke. Anal Chem 48:47-50.
'Hong CB, Winston JM, Thornburg LP, et al. 1981. Follow-up study on the carcinogencity of vinyl chloride and vinylidene chloride in rats and mice: Tumor incidence and mortality subsequent to exposure. J Toxicol Environ Health 7:909-924,
Hopkins J. 1979. Vinyl chloride--Part 1: Metabolism. Food Cosmet Toxicol 17:403-405.
'Howard CJ. 1976. Rate constants for the gas-phase reactions of hydroxyl radicals with ethylene and halogenated ethylene compounds. J Chem Phys 65:4771-4777.
'Hrivnak L, Rozinova Z, Korony S, et al. 1990. Cytogenetic analysis of peripheral blood lymphocytes in workers exposed to vinyl chloride. Mutat Res 240:83-85.
*HSDB. 1987. Hazardous Substances Data Bank. National Library of Medicine, National Toxicology Information Program, Bethesda, MD. September 1987.
*HSDB. 1990. Hazardous Substances Data Bank. National Library of Medicine, National Toxicology Information Program, Bethesda, MD. May 23, 1990.
'Huberman E, Bartsch H, Sachs I. 1975. Mutation induction in Chinese hamster V79 cells by two vinyl chloride metabolites, chloroethylene oxide and 2-chloroacetaldehyde. Int J Cancer 16:639-644.
'Hultmark D, Sundh K, Johansson L, et al. 1919. Ethanol inhibition of vinyl chloride metabolism in isolated rat hepatocytes. Chem Biol Interact 25:1-6.
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
127 8. REFERENCES
`LARC. 1978. Methods for the measurement of vinyl chloride in polyvinyl chloride, air, water, and foodstuffs. In: Egan H, Squireel DCM, Thain W, Davis W, eds. Environmental Carcinogens Selected Methods of Analysis. Lyons, France: World Health Organization. International Agency for Research on Cancer. IARC Sci Pub No 22.
`IARC. 1979. Monographs on the evaluation of the carcinogenic risk of chemicals in humans. Vinyl chloride, polyvinyl chloride and vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate copolymers. Lyons, France: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer. WHO, IARC 19:377-401; 419-438.
`IARC. 1987. IARC monographs on the evaluation of carcinogenic risks to humans. Overall evaluations of carcinogenicity: An updating of IARC monographs Volumes 1 to 42. Lyons, France: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer. WHO, IARC; Suppl 7:373-376.
Ierardi M, Brunner P, Cichon EJ. 1987. Groundwater restoration at McClellan AFB. In: Bennett G, Bennett J, eds. Superfund '87: Proceedings of the 8th National Conference, November 16-18, Washington, DC, The Hazardous Materials Control Research Institute, 204, 207,
`Infante PF. 1976. Oncogenic and mutagenic risks in communities with polyvinyl chloride production facilities. Ann NY Acad Sci 271:49-57.
`Infante PF, Wagoner JK, McMichael AJ, et al. 1976a. Genetic risks of vinyl chloride. Lancet (April 3) 734-735.
`Infante PF, Wagoner JK, Waxweiler RJ. 1976b. Carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic risks associated with vinyl chloride. Mutat Res 41:131-142.
*IRIS. 1990. Integrated Risk Information Systems. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Health and Environmental Assessment, Environmental Criteria and Assessment Office, Cincinnati, OH.
*Ives NF. 1975. Sensitive trapping and gas chromatographic method for vinyl chloride in air samples. J Assoc Off Anal Chcm 58:457-460.
`Jacobsen JS, Perkins CP, Callahan JT, et al. 1989. Mechanisms of mutagenesis by chloroacelaldchyde. Genetics 121:213-222.
`Jaeger RJ, Murphy SD, Reynolds ES, et al. 1977. Chemical modification of acute hepatotoxicity of vinyl chloride monomer in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 41:597-607.
`Jaeger RJ, Reynolds ES, Conolly RB, et al. 1974. Acute hepatic injury by vinyl chloride in rats pretreated with phenobarbital. Nature 252:724-726.
`Jayson MIV, Bailey AJ, Black C, et al. 1976. Clinical aspects of vinyl chloride disease: Collagen studies in acroosteolysis. Proc R Soc Med 69:295-297.
`Jedrychowski RA, Sokal JA, Chmielnicka J. 1984. Influence of exposure mode on vinyl chloride action. Arch Toxicol 55:195-198.
'DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
DO
(/) o
00
00 oo -c*
R&S 038005
128
8. REFERENCES
'Jedrychowski RA, Sokal JA, Chmielnicka J. 1985. Comparison of the impact of continuous and intermittent exposure to vinyl chloride, including phenobarbital effect. J Hyg Epidemiol Microbiol Immunol 29:111-120.
Jenssen D, Ramel C. 1980. The micronucleus test as part of a short-term mutagenicity test program for the prediction of carcinogenicity evaluated by 143 agents tested. Mutat Res 75:191-202.
*John JA, Smith FA, Leong BKJ, et al. 1977. The effects of maternally inhaled vinyl chloride on embryonal and fetal development in mice, rats, and rabbits. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 39:497-513.
*John JA, Smith FA, Schwetz BA. 1981. Vinyl chloride: Inhalation teratology study in mice, rats, and rabbits. Environ Health Perspect 41:171-177.
Uones JH. 1981. Worker exposure to vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride. Environ Health Perspect 41:129-136.
*Jones DB, Smith PM. 1982. Progression of vinyl chloride induced hepatic fibrosis to angiosarcoma of the liver. Br J Ind Med 39:306-307.
Jones RD, Smith DM, Thomas PG. 1988. A mortality study of vinyl chloride monomer workers employed in the United Kingdom in 1940-1974. Scand J Work Environ Health 14:153-160.
Juhe VS, Lange CE, Stein G, et al. 1974. [On so-called vinyl chloride disease (a new occupational disease).] Berufsdermatosen 22:4-22. (German)
Jury WA, Spencer WF, Farmer WJ. 1984. Behavior assessment model for trace organics in soil: III. Application of screening model. J Environ Qual 13:573-579.
Kandala JC, Mrema JEK, Deangelo A, et al. 1990. 2 Chloroacetaldehydc and 2 chloroacetal are potent inhibitors of DNA synthesis in animal cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 167:457-463.
Kappus H, Bolt HM, Buchter A, et al. 1976. Liver microsomal uptake of [14C] vinyl chloride and transformation to protein alkylating metabolites in vitro. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 37:461-471.
Kastner M, Hoppenheidt K, Hanert HH. 1988. Bacterial transformation reactions in groundwater aquifers contaminated with chlorinated hydrocarbons purification techniques. In: Wolf K, Van Den Brink WJ, Colon FJ, eds. Contaminated Soil '88: Second International Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research/Federal Ministry of Research and Technology Conference, Hamburg, West Germany, April 11-15, 1988, 1235-1238.
*Kenaga EE, Goring CAI. 1980. Relationship between water solubility, soil-sorption, octanol-water partitioning, and concentration of chemicals in biota. In: Eaton JG, Parrish PR, Hendricks AC, eds. Aquatic Toxicology. American Society for Testing and Materials, 78-115.
*Keplinger ML, Goode JW, Gordon DE. et al. 1975. Interim results of exposure of rats, hamsters, and mice to vinyl chloride. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:219-224.
Kessler E, Brandt-Rauf PW. 1987a. Occupational cancers of the brain and bone. Occupational Cancer and Carcinogenesis 2:155-163.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*'*
129 8 REFERENCES
Kessler E, Brandl-Raut' PW. 1987b. Occupational cancers of the nervous system. Seminars in Occupational Medicine 2:311-314.
Kalian DJ, Picciano DJ, Jacobson CB. 1975. Industrial monitoring: A cytogenic approach. Ann NY Acad Sci 269:4-11.
Kinigakis P, Miltz J, Gilbert SG. 1987. Partition of VCM in plasticized PVC-food simulant systems. J Food Process Preserv 11:247-256.
*Knight KR, Gibbons R. 1987. Increased collagen synthesis and cross-link formation in the skin of rats exposed to vinyl chloride monomer. Clin Sci 72:673-678.
Koch R, Nagel M. 1988. Quantitative structure activity relationships in soil. Sci Total Environ 77:269-276.
Kollar V, Kemka R, Misianik J, et al. 1988. Determination of vinyl chloride and vinyl acetate in working atmosphere. Chem Pap 42:147-160.
*Kontominas MG, Gupta C, Gilbert SG. 1985. Interaction of vinyl chloride with polyvinyl chloride in model food systems by HPLC chromatography: Migration aspects. Lcbcnsm-Wiss u-Technol 18:353-356.
*Krajewski J, Dobecki M, Gromiec J, 1980. Retention of vinyl chloride in the human lung. Br J Ind Med 37:373-374.
Kramer CG, Mutchler JE. 1972. The correlation of clinical and environmental measurements for workers exposed to vinyl chloride. Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 33:19.
*Krost KJ, Pellizzari ED, Walburn SG, et al. 1982. Collection and analysis of hazardous organic emissions. Anal Chem 54:810-817.
*Kucerova M, Polivkova Z, Batora J. 1979. Comparative evaluation of the frequency of chromosomal aberrations and the SCE numbers in peripheral lymphocytes of workers occupationally exposed to vinyl chloride monomer. Mutat Res 67:97-100.
Kurzel RB, Cetrulo CL. 1981. The effect of environmental pollutants on human reproduction, including birth defects. Environ Sci Technol 15:625-640.
*Laib RJ, Bolt HM. 1977, Alkylation of RNA by vinyl chloride metabolites in vitro and in vivo: Formation of l-N-6-ethenoadenosine. Toxicology 8:185-195.
Laib RJ, Barbin A, Bartsch H. 1984. Evidence that vinyl chloride alters the fidelity of replication: Studies with chloroethylene oxide treated poly-(dG-dC). Naunyn-Schmicd Arch Pharmacol 325(suppl):R17.
*Laib RJ, Bolt HM, Cartier R, et al. 1989. Increased alkylation of liver DNA and cell turnover in young versus old rats exposed to vinyl chloride correlates with cancer susceptibility. Toxicol Lett 45:231-239.
*Langauer-Lewowicka H, Dudziak Z, Byczkowska Z, et al. 1976. Cryoglobulinemia in Raymond's phenomenon due to vinyl chloride. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 35:197-207.
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&s 038006
R&S 038007
130 8. REFERENCES
*Langauer-Lewowicka H, Kurzbauer H, Byczkowska 2, et al. 1983. Vinyl chloride disease-neurological disturbances. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 52:151-157.
'Laplanche A, Clavel F, Contassot JC, et al. 1987. Exposure to vinyl chloride monomer-report on a cohort study. Br J Ind Med 44:711-715.
*Lee FI, Harry DS. 1974. Angiosarcoma of the liver in a vinyl chloride worker. Lancet 1:1316-1318.
*Lee CC, Bhandari JC, Winston JM, et al. 1977a. Inhalation toxicity of vinyl chloiide and vinylidene chloride. Environ Health Perspect 21:25-32.
*Lee CC, Bhandari JC, Winston JM, et al. 1978. Carcinogenicity of vinyl chloride and vinylidene chloride. J Toxicol Environ Health 4:15-30.
Lee FI, Harry DS, Adams WG, et al. 1977b. Screening for liver disease in vinyl chloride workers. Br J Ind Med 34:142-147.
*Lcster D, Greenberg LA, Adams WR. 1963. Effects of single and repeated exposures of humans and rats to vinyl chloride. Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 24:265-275.
Lilis R. 1981. Review of pulmonary effects of polyvinyl chloride and vinyl chloride exposure. Conference to reevaluate the toxicity of vinyl chloride monomer, polyvinyl chloride and structural analogs, Bethesda, MD. Environ Health Perspect 41:167-170.
*Lilis R, Anderson H, Miller A, et al. 1976. Pulmonary changes among vinyl chloride polymerization workers. Chest 69:299-303.
*Lilis R, Anderson H, Nicholson WJ, et al. 1975. Prevalence of disease among vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride workers. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:22-41.
*Liss GM, Greenberg RA, Tamburro CH, 1985. Use of serum bile acids in the identification of vinyl chloride hepatotoxicity. Am J Med 78:68-76.
*Lloyd MH, Gauld S, Copland L, et al. 1984. Epidemiological study of the lung function of workers at a factory manufacturing polyvinyl chloride. Br J Ind Med 41:328-333.
Longo LD. 1980. Environmental pollution and pregnancy: Risks and uncertainties for the fetus and infant. Am J Obstet Gynecol 137:162-173.
*Loprieno N, Barale R, Baroncelii S, et ah 1977. Induction of gene mutations and gene conversions by vinyl chloride metabolites in yeast. Cancer Res 46:253-257.
*Lu PY, Metcalf RL, Plummer N, et al. 1977. The environmental fate of 3 carcinogens: Benzo(a)pyrene, benzidine and vinyl chloride evaluated in laboratory model ecosystems. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 6:129-142.
*Lvman WJ, Reehl WF, Rosenblatt DH. 1982. Handbook of chemical property estimation methods. Environmental Behavior of Organic Compounds. McGraw Hill Book Co.. New York, NY, 4-9.
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038008
131
8. REFERENCES
"Magnavita N, Bergamaschi A, Garcovich A, et al. 1986. Vasculitic purpura in vinyl chloride disease: A case report. Angiologv 37:382-388.
"Makarov LA. 1984. [Sexual disorders in male workers occupationally exposed to methyl methacrylate and vinyl chloride.] Gig Tr Prof Zabol 6:19-23. (Russian)
""Makarov LA, Solovyeva MS, Gnelitsky GI. 1984, [Sexual disorders in women chronically exposed to methylmethacrylate and vinyl chloride.] Gig Tr Prof Zabol 3:22-27 (Russian)
"Maltoni C. 1977. Recent findings on the carcinogenicity of chlorinated olefins. Environ Health Perspec 21:15.
Maltoni C, Cotti G. 1988. Carcinogenicity of vinyl chloride in sprague-Dawley rats after prenatal an postnatal exposure. Ann NY Acad Sci 534:145-159.
"Maltoni C, Lefemine G. 1975. Carcinogenicity bioassays of vinyl chloride: Current results. Ann NY Acai Sci 246:195-218.
Maltoni C, Lodi P, 1981. Results of sputum cytology among workers exposed to vinyl chloride and to polyvinyl chloride. Environ Health Perspect 41:85-88.
Maltoni C, Cotti G, Valgimigli L, et al. 1983. Suitable models for long-term bioassays of the therapeutic and toxic effects of antiblastic drugs: Liver angiosarcomas produced in sprague-dawlcy rats by vinyl chloride. Dev Oncol 15:339-341.
Maltoni C, Lefemine G, Ciliberti A, et al. 1980. Vinyl chloride carcinogenicity bioassays (BT project) as an experimental model for risk identification and assessment in environmental and occupational carcinogenesis. Epidemiol Anim Epidemiol Hum: Cas Chlorure Vinyle Monomcre (Reun Club Cancerog Chim), 20th, Meeting Date 1979, 11-112. Publ Essent, Paris, France.
"Maltoni C, Lefemine G, Ciliberti A, et al. 1981. Carcinogenicity bioassays of vinyl chloride monomer: A model of risk assessment on an experimental basis. Environ Health Perspect 41:329.
Maltoni C, LeFemine G, Ciliberti A, et al. 1984. Experimental research on vinyl chloride carcinogenesis. Archives of Research on Industrial Carcinogenesis, Vol. II. Princeton Scientific Publishers, Princeton, NJ.
"Marioq HR, Johnson MN, Whetstone CL, et al. 1976. Capillary abnormalities in polyvinyl chloride production workers: Examination bv in vivo microscopy. J Am Med Assoc 236:1368-1371.
"Markowitz SS, McDonald CJ, Fethiere W, et al. 1972. Occupational acroosteolysis. Arch Derm 106:219223.
"Marsteller HJ, Lelbach WK, Muller R, et al. 1975. Unusual splenomegalic liver disease as evidenced by peritoneoscopy and guided liver biopsy among polyvinyl chloride production workers. Ann NY Acad Sci 95134.
"Mastrangelo G, Manno M, Marcer G, et al. 1979. Polyvinyl chloride pneumoconiosis: epidemiological study of exposed workers. J Occup Med 21:540-545.
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038009
132 8. REFERENCES
*Mastromatteo E, Fisher AM, Christie H, et al. 1960. Acute inhalation toxicity of vinyl chloride to laboratory animals. Am Jnd Hyg Assoc J 394-398.
MCA. 1980. Letter regarding the study and report of effects of vinyl chloride. Manufacturing Chemists Association. FYI-OTS-0480-0065.
*McCann J, Simmon V, Streitwieser D, et al. 1975. Mutagenicity of chloroacetaldehyde, a possible metabolic product of 1,2-dichlorocthane (ethylene dlchloride), chloroethanol (ethylene chlorohydrin), vinyl chloride and cyclophosphamide. Proc Nat Acad Sci 72:3190-3193.
McConnell G, Ferguson DM, Pearson CR. 1975. Chlorinated hydrocarbons and the environment. Endeavor 34:13-18.
McCord CP. 1970. A new occupational disease is born. J Occupational Med 12:234.
*McMurry JR, Tarr J. 1978. Vinyl chloride in Texas' ambient air. Proc Ann Tech Meet - Inst Environ Sci. 149-155.
Mergler-Volkl R, Nerger M, Schule J. A contribution to the biodegradation of volatile chlorinated hydrocarbons in groundwater and sewage. In: Wolf K, Van Den Brink WJ, Colon FJ, eds. Contaminated soil '88: Second International Netherlands Conference Organized for Applied Scientific Research. Federal Ministry of Research and Technology Conference, Hamburg, West Germany.
*Micu D, Mihailescu E, Vilau C, et al. 1985. The value of some cytoenzymo-chemical investigations of the leukocytes and platelets in estimating the effects of occupational exposure to benzene, vinyl chloride, and carbon disulphide. Rev Roum Med-Med Int 23:115-120.
Milby TH. 1977. Cancer control monograph: Vinyl chloride. Menlo Park, California, SRI International.
Milde G, Nerger M, Mergler R. 1988. Biological degradation of volatile chlorinated hydrocarbons in groundwater. Water Sci Technol 20:67-74.
Miller A. 1975. Pulmonary function defects in nonsmoking vinyl chloride workers. Environ Health Perspect 11:247-250.
Miller A, Teirstein AS, Chuang M, et al. 1975. Changes in pulmonary function in workers exposed to vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:252.
Miller JJ, Beizer MB, 1985. Air quality in residences adjacent to an active hazardous waste disposal site. APCA Annual Meeting, June 16-21, 2-17.
*Mirkova E, Mihaylova A, Nosko M. 1978. [Embryotoxic and teratogenic effects in vinyl chloride.) Khig Zdraveopaz 21:440-443. (Bulgarian)
*MIS. 1990. ATSDR Management Information System. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, GA. September 24, 1990.
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
133 8 REFERENCES
Molton PM, Hallen RT, Payne JW. 1987. Study of vinyl chloride formation at landfill sites in California. Govt Reports Announcements & Index (GRA&I), Issue 13.
*Monson RR, Peters JM, Johnson MN. 1975. Proportional mortality among vinyl chloride workers. Environ Health Perspect 11:75-77.
Monster AC. 1986. Biological monitoring of chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents. J Occup Med 28:586-588.
Morton WE. 1986. Expanding awareness of the hazards of vinvl-chloridc. West J Med 148:74-75.
*Mulier JPH, Korte F. 1977. [Contributions to ecological chemistry CXXXVI. Short report on the unsensitized photooxidation of chloroethylenes.J Chemosphere 6:341-346. (German) [Translation in progress]
Muller R, Lingens F, 1986. Microbial degradation of halogcnated hydrocarbons: A biological solution to pollution problems? Angew Chem lnt Ed Engl 25:779-789.
*Muller G, Norpoth K, Kusters E, et al. 1978. Determination of thiodiglycolic aied in urine specimens of vinyl chloride exposed workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 41:199-205.
*Mullcr G, Norpoth K, Wickrama-Singhe RH. 1979. An analytical method using GC-MS for the quantitative determination of urinary thiodiglycolic acid, lnt Arch Occup Environ Health 44:185-191.
*NAS/NRC. 1989. . Biologic markers in reproductive toxicology. National Academy of Sciences/National Research Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 15-35.
*NATICH. 1990. National Air Toxics Information Clearinghouse: Data base report on state, local, and EPA air toxics activities. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards. Washington, D.C. September 17, 1990.
Nicholson WJ, Hammond EC, Seidman H, et al. 1975. Mortality experience of a cohort of vinyl chloridepolyvinyl chloride workers. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:225-230.
NIOSH. 1975. Recommended standard...occupational exposure to vinyl chloride. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NTIS PB-246-691.
*NIOSH. 1984. NIOSH manual of analytical methods. 3rd ed. Vol. 2. Vinyl chloride in air. Method No. 1007. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, 1007-1 to 1007-4.
*NIOSH. 1985. Pocket guide to chemical hazards. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Pub. No. 78-210.
*NIOSH. 1986. Chemical review: Vinyl chloride. Dangerous properties of industrial materials report 6:13-43. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH publication no. 00188891.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038010
134 8, REFERENCES
*NIO$H/OSHA. 1978. Vinyl halides-carcinogenicity. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health and U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Current Intelligence Bulletin No. 28.
*NOES. 1990. National Occupational Exposure Survey. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH. July 1, 1990.
*Norpoth K, Heger M, Mueller G, et al. 1986. Investigations on metabolism genotoxic effects and carcinogenicity of 2.2-dichlorodiethyl ether. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 112:125-130.
*NREPC, 1988. Kentucky waste management regulations. Frankfort, KY: Department for Environmental Protection, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet. 401 KAR, Chapters 30-49.
*OHM/TADS. 1985. Oil and Hazardous Materials/Technical Assistance Data System. December 5, 1985.
Olsen GW, Hearn S. Cook RR, et al. 1989. Mortality experience of a cohort of Louisiana chemical workers. J Occup Med 31:32-34.
OSHA. 1983. OSHA safety and health standards. U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Code of Federal Regulations. 29 CFR 1910.1017.
*OSHA. 1989. Air contaminants: Final rule. U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Federal Register 54(12):2920-2960,
*Ostcr RH, Carr CJ. Krantz JC. 1947. Anesthesia XXVII. Narcosis with vinyl chloride. Anesthesiology 8:359-361. Osterman-Golkar S. Julimark D, Segerback D, et al. 1977. Alkylation of DNA and proteins in mice exposed to vinyl chloride. Biochem Biophys Res Comm 76:259-266.
Pau JC, Knoll JE, Midgett MR. 1988. Evaluation of a process gas chromatograph as a continuous emission monitor for benzene and vinyl chloride. J Air Pollut Control Assoc 38:1528-1529.
Page GW. 19S1. Comparison of groundwater and surface water for patterns and levels of contamination by toxic substances. Environ Sci Technol 15:1475-1481.
*Patty FA, Yapt WP. Waite CP. 1930. Acute response of guinea pigs to vapors of some new commercial organic compounds. V. Vinyl chloride. Pub Health Reports 45:1963-1971.
*Perry RA, Atkinson R, Pitts JN Jr. 1977. Rale constants for the reaction of hydroxyl radicals with vinyl fluoride, vinyl chloride, and vinyl bromide over the temperature range 229-426K. J Chem Phys 67:458-462.
*Perticoni GF, Abbritti G, Cantisani TA, et al. 1986. Polineuropathy in workers with long exposure to vinyl chloride. Electro-physiological study. Electromyog Clin Neurophysiol 26:41-47.
*Pettit BR. 1986. The analysis of thiodiglycollic-acid by selected ion monitoring. Clim Chim Acta 156:85-90.
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 038011
135 8. REFERENCES
'Pirastu R, Comba P, Reggiani A, et al. 1990. Mortality from liver disease among Italian vinyl chloride monomer/polyvinyl chloride manufacturers. Am J Ind Med 17:155-161.
Pleil JD, Oliver KD, McClenny WA. 1988. Ambient air analyses using nonspecific flame ionization and electron capture detection compared to specific detection by mass spectroscopy. J Air Pollut Control Assoc 38:1006-1010.
'Plugge H, Safe S. 1977. Vinyl chloride metabolism. A review. Chemosphere 6:309-325.
Plumb RH Jr. 1987. A comparison of ground water monitoring data from CERCLA and RCRA sites. Ground Water Monit Rev 7:94-100.
'Poncelet F, de Meester C, Duverger-van Bogaert M, et al. 1980. Influence of experimental factors on the mutagenicity of vinylic monomers. Arch Toxicol Suppl 4:63-66.
'Popper H, Thomas LB. 1975. Alterations of liver and spleen among workers exposed to vinyl chloride. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:172-194.
'Popper H, Maltoni C, Selikoff IJ. 1981. Vinyl chloride-induced hepatic lesions in man and rodents: A comparison. Liver 1:7-20.
Poy F, Cobelli L, Banfi S, et al. 1987. Determination of vinyl chloride monomer residue in polyvinyl chloride at the parts-per-billion level with an automatic purge-and-trap technique. J Chromatogr 395:281-290.
'Preston BJ, Jones KL, Grainger RG. 1976. Clinical aspects of vinyl chloride disease: Acroosteolysis. Proc R Soc Med 69:284-286.
Pritchard PH. 1988. Fate of pollutants. J Water Pollut Control Fed 60:983-994.
'Purchase IFH, Richardson CR, Anderson D. 1975. Chromosomal and dominant lethal effects of vinyl chloride. Lancet 410-411.
Purchase IFH, Richardson CR, Anderson D. 1976. Clinical apsects of vinyl chloride disease: Chromosomal effects in peripheral lymphocytes. Proc R Soc Med 69:290-292.
'Purchase IFH, Richardson CR, Anderson D, et al. 1978. Chromosomal analysis in vinyl chloride exposed workers. Mutat Res 57:325-334.
Purchase IFH, Stafford J, Paddle GM. 1987. Vinyl chloride: An assessment of the risk of occupational exposure. Food Chem Toxicol 25:187-202.
Radding SB, Liu DH, Johnson HL, et al. 1977. Review of the environmental fate selected chemicals. NTIS 68-01-2681.
'Radike MJ, Stemmer K, Bingham E. 1981. Effect of ethanol on vinyl chloride carcinogenesis. Environ Health Perspect 41:59-62.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"*
R&s 038012
136 8. REFERENCES
Ramsey JD, Flanagan RJ. 1982. Detection and identification of volatile organic compounds in blood by headspace gas chromatography as an aid to the diagnosis of solvent use. J Chromatogr 240:423-444.
Rannug U, Gothe R, Wachtmeister CA. 1976. The mutagenicity of chloroethylene oxide, chloroacetaldehyde, 2-chloroethanol and chloroacetic acid, conceivable metabolites of vinyl chloride. Chem Biol Interact 12:251263.
'Rannug U, Johansson A, Ramel C, et al. 1974. The mutagenicity of vinyl chloride after metabolic activation. Ambio 3:194-197
Rappoport 2, Gal A. 1969. Vinylic cations from solvolysis. I. The trianisylvinyl halide system. J Am Chem Soc 91:5246-5254.
'Rasmussen RA, Harsch DE, Sweany PH, et al. 1977. Determination of atmospheric halocarbons by a temperature-programmed gas chromatographic freeze-out concentration method. J Air Pollut Control Assoc 27:579-581.
'Reding R. 1987. Chromatographic monitoring methods for organic contaminants under the Safe Drinking Water Act. J Chromatogr Sci 25:338-344.
'Reynolds ES, Jaeger RJ, Murphy SD. 1975a. Acute liver injury by vinyl chloride: Involvement of endoplasmic reticulum in phenobarbital-pretreated rats. Environ Health Perspec 11:227-233.
'Reynolds ES, Moslen MT, Szabo S, et al. 1975b. Hepatotoxicity of vinyl chloride and 1,1-dichloroethylene. Am J Pathol 81:219-231.
'Rinsky RA, Ott G, Ward E, et al. 1988. Study of mortality among chemical workers in the Kanawha Valley of West Virginia. Am J Ind Med 13:429-438.
Roberts PV, Simprini L, Hopkins GD, et al. 1989. In-situ aquifer restoration of chlorinated aliphatics by methanotrophic bacteria. EPA/600/2-89/033. NTIS PB89-21-9992.
Rogers JC. 1986. Analysis of vinyl chloride monomer in ambient air by gas chromatography. Proceedings of the 1986 EPA/APCA Symposium on Measurement of Toxic Air Pollutants, Raleigh, North Carolina.
'Rosenman KD, Rizzo JE, Conomos MG, et al. 1989. Central nervous system malformations in ration to polyvinyl chloride production facilities. Arch Environ Health 44:279-282.
'Sabadie N, Malaveille C, Camus AM, et al. 1980. Comparison of the hydroxylation of bcnzo(a)pyrene with the metabolism of vinyl chloride, n-nitrosonorpholinc, and n-nitroso-n'methylpiperazine to mutagens by human and rat liver microsomal fractions. Cancer Res 409:119-126.
'Sabel GV, Clark TP. 1984. Volatile organic compounds as indicators of municipal solid waste leachate Qo contamination. Waste Manag Res 2:119-130.
'Sabljic A. 1984. Prediction of the nature and strength of soil sorption of organic pollutants by molecular topology. J Agric Food Chem 32:243-246.
"DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
038073
R&S 038014
137 S. REFERENCES
"Sakabe H. 1973. Bone lesions among poiwinyi chloride production workers in Japan. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:78.
"Sal'nikova LS, Kotsovskaya IA. 1980. [Effect of vinyl chloride on embryogencsis of rats.] Gig Tr Prof Zabol 46-47. (Russian) "Sanhueza E. Heicklcn J. 1975. Oxidation of chloroeihyiene. J Phys Chem 79:677-681. Santella RM. 19S8. Monitoring human exposure to carcinogens by DNA adduct measurement. Cell Biol Toxicol 4:511-516. Sax NI, ed. 1984. Dangerous properties of industrial materials. 6th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., 2728. Sax NI, Lewis RJ, eds. 1987. Hawley's condensed chemical dictionary. 11th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., 1223. "Sax NI, Lewis RJ, eds. 1989. Dangerous properties ol industrial materials. 7th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., 3473-3474. Schaffner F. 1978. Effect of long-term vinyl chloride exposure in mouse liver structure. Falk Symp 25:189199. Schnorr TM. 1988. NIOSH epidemiologic studies of pregnancy outcomes. Reproductive Toxicology 2:247251. "SCIsearch. 1990. Vinyl chloride. Dialog Information Services, Institute for Scientific Information, July 1990. Sever LE, Hessol NA. 1985. Toxic effects of occupational and environmental chemicals on the testes. Thomas JA, Korach KA, McLachlan JA, editors. Target organ toxicology series: Endocrine toxicology. New York, NY; Raven Press, 211-248. "Shahin MM. 1976. The nonmutagenicity and recombinogcnicitv of vinyl chloride in the absence of metabolic activation. Mutat Res 40:269-272.
"Sharma RP, Gehring PJ. 1979. Immunologic effects of vinyl chloride in mice. Ann NY Acad Sci 31:551563. "Short RD, Minor JL, Winston JM, et al. 1977, A dominant lethal study in male rats after repeated exposures to vinyl chloride or vinylidene chloride. J Toxicol Environ Health 3:965-968. Silka LR, Wallen DA. 1988. Observed rates of biotransformation of chlorinated aliphatics in groundwater. In: Superfund 1988, Proc 9th Natl Conf. Haz Mat Control Res Inst, 138-141.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038015
138 8. REFERENCES
"Simmon VF, Kauhanen K, Tardiff RG. 1977. Mutagenic activity of chemicals identified in drinking water. Proc Second Int Conf Environ Mutagens, Edinburgh, July 11-15, 1977. Progress in Genetic Toxicology. Amsterdam: Elsevier/North Holland Biomedical Press. 249-258.
"`Singer B, Spengler SJ, Chavez F, et al. 1987. The vinyl chloride-derived nucleoside, N2,3-ethenoguanosine, is a highly efficient mutagen in transcription. Carcinogenesis 8:745-747.
Singh HB, Salas LJ, Smith AJ, et al. 1981. Measurements of some potentially hazardous organic chemicals in urban environments. Atmos Environ 15:601-612.
Singley JE, 1984. Water (municipal treatment). In: Kirk-Othmer encyclopedia of chemical technology. Vol. 24, 387.
"Sittig M. 1985. Handbook of toxic and hazardous chemicals and carcinogens. 2nd ed. Park Ridge, NJ: Noyes Publications, 918-921.
"Smith LR, Dragun J. 1984. Degradation of volatile chlorinated aliphatic priority pollutants in groundwater. Environ Internat 10:291-298.
"Smulevich VB, Fedotova IV, Filatova VS. 1988. Increasing evidence of the rise of cancer in workers exposed to vinyl chloride. Br J Ind Med 45:93-97.
Sobel W, Bond GG, Skowronski BJ, et al. 1987. A soft tissue sarcoma case control study in a large multi chemical manufacturing facility. Chemosphere 16:2095-2099.
"Sokal JA, Baranski B, Majka J, et al. 1980. Experimental studies on the chronic toxic effects of vinylchloride in rats. J Hyg Epidemiol Microbiol Immunol 24:285-294.
"Spirtas R, McMichael AJ, Gamble J, ct al. 1975. The association of vinyl chloride exposures with morbidity symptoms. Am Ind Hyd Assoc J 36:779-789.
"SRI. 1990a. 1990 Directory of chemical producers. Menlo Park, CA: SRI International, 1064.
"SRI. 1990b. 1990 Directory of chemical producers. Supplement. Menlo Park, CA: SRI International, 66.
"Stallones RA. 1987. The use and abuse of subgroup analysis in epidemiological research. Prev Med 16:183-194.
Stellman JM, 1985. Statistical and practical problems of cohort study design: Occupational Hazards in the health care industry. National Cancer Instit Monograph No. 67.
"Stephens RD, Ball NB, Mar DM. 1986. A multimedia study of hazardous waste landfill gas migration. In: Pollutants in a Multimedia Environment, Cohen Y, ed. New York, NY: Plenum Press, 265-287.
Storctvedt-Heldaas S. Andersen AA, Langard S. 1987. Incidence of cancer among vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride workers: Further evidence for an association with malignant melanoma. Br J Ind Med 44:278-280.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT**"
139 8. REFERENCES
Strik JJTWA. 1987. Porphyrins in urine as an indication of exposure to chlorinated hydrocarbons. Ann NY Acad Sci 514:219-221.
'Stuart JD, 1983. Organics transported thru selected geological media: Assessment of organics transported away from industrial waste disposal sites. Comm Univ Storrs Inst of Water Resources. NTIS PB83-224246; MO.
Studniarek M, Durski K, Liniecki J, et al. 1989. Effects of vinyl chloride on liver function of exposed workers, evaluated by measurements of plasma clearance of the 99mTc-N-2,4-dimethylacetaniliodiminodiacetate complex. J Appl Toxicol 9:213-218.
Styles JA. 1977. A method for detecting carcinogenic organic chemicals using mammalian cells in culture. Br J Cancer 36:558-563.
'Suciu I, Drejman I, Valeskai M, 1963. [Investigation of the diseases caused by vinyl chloride.] Med Intern 15:967-976. (Romanian)
+Suciu I, Prodan L, Ilea E, et al. 1975. Clinical manifestations in vinyl chloride poisoning. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:53-69.
Sugita M, Masuda Y, Tsuchiya K. 1986. Early detection and signs of hepatoangiosarcoma among vinyl chloride workers. Am J Ind Med 10:411-417.
'Suzuki Y. 1978. Pulmonary tumors induced in mice by vinyl chloride monomer. Environ Res 16:285-301.
'Suzuki Y. 1980. Nonneoplastic effects of vinyl chloride in mouse lung. Environ Res 21:235-253.
'Suzuki Y. 1981. Neoplastic and nonncoplastic effects of vinyl chloride in mouse lung. Environ Health Perspect 41:31-52.
'Suzuki Y. 1983. Neoplastic effect of vinyl chloride in mouse lung-lower doses and short-term exposure Environ Res 32:91-103.
'Svensson K, Osterman-Golkar S. 1986. Covalent binding of intermediates to hemoglobin in the mouse as an approach to studying the metabolic pathways of 1,2-dichlorocthane. In: Singer, B and Bartsh, H eds. The role or cyclic acid adducts in carcinogenesis and mutagenesis. Lyon, France: LARC, 269-279.
Sweeney MH, Beaumont J J, Waxweiler RJ, el al. 1986. An investigation of mortality from cancer and other causes of death among workers employed at an east Texas chemical plant. Arch Environ Health 41:23-28.
Tabacova S. 1986. Maternal exposure to environmental chemicals. NeuroToxicology 7:421-440.
'Tabershaw IR, Gaffey WR. 1974. Mortality study of workers in the manufacture of vinyl chloride and its polymers. J Occup Med 16:509-518.
Tamburro CH. 1984. Relationship of vinyl monomers and liver cancers: angiosarcoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. Sem Liver Dis, May 1984. 4:158-169.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038016
R&S 038017
140 8. REFERENCES
Tamburro CH, Makk L, Popper H. 1984. Early hepatic histologic alterations among chemical (vinyl monomer) workers. Hepatology 4:413-418.
Tarkowski S. 1984. Preventive measure against occupational hazards in the PVC production industry. Prog Clin Biol Res 141:177-189.
Taylor KJW, Barett JJ, Williams DMJ, et al. 1976. Clinical aspects of vinyl chloride disease: Preliminary results of grey-scale ultrasonography in the detection of vinyl chloride related liver and spleen disease. Proc R Soc Med 69:292-295.
Telliard WA, Rubin MB, Rushneck DR. 1987. Control of pollutants in waste water. J Chromatogr Sci 25:322-327.
Ten Berge WF. 1987, Incidence of cancer among vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride workers: Further evidence for an association with malignant melanoma. Br J Ind Med 1987 44:718-719.
Tela MJ, Schnatter AR, Ott MG, et al. 1990. Mortality surveillance in a large chemical company: The union carbide corporation experience. Am J Ind Med 17:435-448.
Theriault G, Iturra H, Gingras S. 1983. Evaluation of the association between birth defects and exposure to ambient vinyl chloride. Teratology 27:359-370.
Thibodeaux U. 1981. Estimating the air emissions of chemicals from hazardous waste landfills. J Hazardous Materials 4:235-244,
`Thomas TL, Stewart PA, Stemhagcn A, et al. 1987. Risk of astrocytic brain tumors associated with occupational chemical exposures: A case-referent study. Scand J Work Environ Health 13:417-423.
Til HP, Immel HR, Feron VJ. 1983. Lifespan oral carcinogenicity study of vinyl chloride in rats. Final report. Civo Institutes, TNO. Report No. V 93.285/291099.
Torkelson TR, Oyen F, Rowe VK. 1961. The toxicity of vinyl chloride as determined by repeated exposure of laboratory animals. Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 22:354-361.
TRI88. 1990. Toxic Chemical Release Inventory. National Library of Medicine, National Toxicology Program, Bethesda, MD.
Tuazon EC, Atkinson R, Aschmann SM, et al. 1988. Atmospheric reactions of chloroethenes with the hydroxy radical. Int J Chem Kinet 20:241-266.
Tzouwara-Karayanni $, Demertzis PG, Kontominas MG. 1987. Adsorption of vinyl chloride onto plasticized polyvinyl chloride by classical partition in the presence of various simulating solvents: Migration aspects. Lcbensm-Wiss Technol 20:202-206.
Umana M, Warner M, Sheldon LS. 1985. Methods for sampling and analysis of breath. EPA/600/8-S5/019, NTIS PB85-243277,
**'DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT'"
141
8. REFERENCES
*Ungvarv G, Hudak A. Tatrai E, ct al. 1978. Effects of vinyl chloride exposure alone and in combination with trypan blue-applied systematically during all thirds of pregnancy on the fetuses of CFY rats. Toxicology 11:45-54.
*USITC. 1987. Synthetic organic chemicals: United States production and sales. 19S6. USITC Publication 2009. Washington, DC: United States International Trade Commission, 212.
Uzych L. 1988. Human male exposure to vinyl chloride and possible teratogenic and mutagenic risks: A review. Hum Toxicol 7:517-527.
Vaino H. 1978. Vinyl chloride and vinyl benzene (styrene) - Metabolism, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. Chem Biol Interact 22:117-124.
*van Sittert NJ, de Jong G. 1985. Biomonitoring of exposure to potential mutagens and carcinogens in industrial populations. Food Chem Toxic 23:23-31.
Van Duuren BL. 1988. Direct-acting alkylating and acylating agents. DNA adduct formation, Structureactivity and carcinogenesis. Ann NY Acad Sci 534:620-634.
*Veith GD, Macek KJ, Petrocelli SR, et al. 1980. An evaluation of using partition coefficients and water solubility to estimate bioconccntration factors for organic chemicals in fish. In; Aquatic Toxicology, ASTM STP 707, JG Eaton, Parrish PR, Hendricks AC, eds. American Society for Testing and Materials. 116-1293.
*Veltman G, Lange CE, Juhc S, et al. 1975. Clinical manifestations and course of vinyl chloride disease. Ann NY Acad Sci 246:6-17.
Verburgt FG, Vogel E. 1977. Vinyl chloride mutagenesis in Drosophila melanoeaster. Mutat Res 48:327336.
*Verschueren K. 1983. Handbook of Environmental Data on Organic Chemicals, 2nd ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company; 1185-1186.
*Victorin K, Stahlberg M. 1988a. A method for studying the mutagenicity of some gaseous compounds in salmonella typhimurium. Environ Mol Mutagen 11:65-77.
Victorin K, Stahlberg M. 1988b. Photochemical formation of mutagenic compounds from alkenes and ozone or nitrogen dioxide. Environ Mol Mutagen 11:79-91.
*Vihko R, Vihko P, Maentausta O, et al. 1984. Assessment of early hepatotoxicity: Biological monitoring and surveillance of workers exposed to chemicals. Aitio A, Riihimaki V, Vainio J, eds. Washington, DC: Hemosphere Publishing Co., 309-313.
*Viola PL. 1970. Pathology of vinyl chloride. Med Lavoro 61:174-180.
*Viola PL, Bigotti A, Caputo A. 1971. Oncogenic response of rat skin, lungs, and bones to vinyl chloride. Cancer Res 31:516-522.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038018
142 8. REFERENCES
Vogel TM, Criddle CS, McCarty PL. 1987. Transformations of halogenated aliphatic compounds. Environ Sci Technol 21:722-736.
"WAC. 1985. Groundwater quality. Wisconsin Administrative Code. Chapter NR 140. Department of Natural Resources.
*WAC. 1988. Control of hazardous pollutants. Wisconsin Administrative Code. Chapter NR 445, Department of Natural Resources.
*Wagnerova M, Wagner V, Znojemska S, et al. 1988. Factors of humoral resistance in workers exposed to vinyl chloride with a view to smoking habits. J Hyg Epidemiol Microbiol Immunol 32:265-272,
"Wagnerova M, Znojemska S, Wagner V, et al. 1986. Humoral factors of resistance in the cohort of workers exposed to vinyl chloride in the span of six years, concerning the influence of smoking. Czech Med 9:210-217.
Wagoner JK, Infante PF, Apfcldorf RB. 1980. Toxicity of vinyl chloride and polyvinyl chloride as seen through epidemiologic observations. J Toxicol Environ Health 6:1101-1107.
Wakeman IB, Johnson HR. 1978. Vinyl chloride formation from the thermal degradation of polyvinyl chloride. Polymer Eng Sci 18:404-407.
"Walker AE. 1976. Clinical aspects of vinyl chloride disease: Skin. Proc R Soc Med 69:286-289.
"Wallace LA, Pellizzari E, Hartwell T, et al. 1984. Personal exposure to volatile organic compounds. Environ Res 35:293-319.
Walles AA, Holmberg B. 1984. Induction of single-strand breaks in DNA of mice after inhalation of vinyl chloride. Cancer Lett 25:13-18.
"Walles SAS, Holmberg B, Svensson K, et al. 1988. Induction of single-strand breaks in liver DNA of mice after inhalation of vinyl chloride. Methods for Detecting DNA Damaging Agents in Humans: Applications in Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention, LARC Scientific Publications No. 89, Bartsch H, Hemminki K, O'Neill IK, eds. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer.
Wang YL, Zhao XH. 1987. Occupational health of working women in China. Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health 4:66-71.
*Wang T, Lenahan R, Kanik M. 1985. Impact of trichloroethylene-contaminated groundwater discharged to the main canal and Indian River Lagoon, Vero Beach, Florida. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 34:578-586.
Ward AM. 1976. Clinical aspects of vinvl chloride disease: Evidence of an immune complex disorder in vinyl chloride workers. Proc R Soc Med; 69:289-290.
"Watanabe PG, Gehring PJ. 1976. Dose-dependent fate of vinyl chloride and its possible relationship to oncogenicity in rats. Environ Health Perspect 17:145-152.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
R&S 038020
143 8. REFERENCES
"Watanabe PG, McGowan GR, Gehring PJ. 1976a. Fate of (14CJ vinyl chloride after single oral administration in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 36:339-352.
*Watanabe PG, McGowan GR, Madrid EO, et al. 1976b. Fate of [14C] vinyl chloride following inhalation exposure in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 37:49-59.
*Watanabe PG, Zempel JA, Gebring PJ. 1978a. Comparison of the fate of vinyl chloride following single and repeated exposure in rats. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 44:391-399.
*Watanabe PG, Zempel JA, Pegg DG, et al. 1978b. Hepatic macromolecular binding following exposure to vinyl chloride. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 44:571-579.
*Waxweiler RJ, Falk H, McMichael A, et al. 1977. A cross-sectional epidemiologic survey of vinyl chloride workers. NTIS PB274193.
Waxweiler RJ, Smith AH, Falk H, et al. 1981. Excess lung cancer risk in a synthetic chemicals plant. Environ Health Perspect 41:159-165.
*Waxweiler RJ, Stringer W, Wagner JK, et al. 1976. Neoplastic risk among workers exposed to vinyl chloride. Ann NY Acad Sci 271:40-48.
*Weber H, Reinl W, Greiser E. 1981. German investigations on morbidity and mortality of workers exposed to vinyl chloride. Environ Health Perspect 41:95-99.
Weinbren K. 1976. Clinical aspects of vinyl chloride disease: Histopathology of liver lesions associated with exposure to vinyl chloride monomer. Proc R Soc Med 69:299-303.
*Westrick JJ, Mello JW, Thomas RF. 1984. The groundwater supply survey. J Am Water Works Assoc 76:52-59.
WHO. 1986. Diseases caused by toxic halogen derivatives of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons. Early detection of occupational diseases. Geneva: World Health Organization, 102-121.
*Williams DT. 1976. Confirmation of vinyl chloride in foods by conversion to l-chloro-l,2-dibromothane. J Assoc Off Anal Chem 59:32-34.
^Williams DT, Miles WF. 1975. Gas-liquid chromatographic determination of vinyl chloride in alcoholic beverages, vegetable oils, and vinegars. J Assoc Off Anal Chem 58:272-275.
Williamson IG, Ramsden RT. 1988. Angiosarcoma of maxillary antrum-association with vinyl chloride exposure. J Laryngol Otol 102:464-467.
Williamson J, Kavanagh B. 1987. Vinyl chloride monomer and other contaminants in PVC welding fumes. Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 48:432-436.
Wilson JT, Wilson BH. 1985. Biotransformation of trichloroethylene in soil. Appl Environ Microbio 49:242243.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
8. REFERENCES
*Wilson RH, McCormick WE, Tatum CF, et al. 1967, Occupational acroosteolysis report of 31 cases. JAMA 201:577-580.
Wilson BH, Smith GB, Rees JF. 1986. Biotransformations of selected alkylbenzenes and halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons in methanogenic aquifer material: A microcosm study. Environ Sci Technol 20:997-
1002.
*Wisniewska-Knypl JM, Klimczak J, Kolakowski J. 1980. Monooxygenase activity and ultrastructural changes of liver in the course of chronic exposure of rats to vinyl chloride. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 46:241249.
*Withey JR. 1976. Pharmacodynamics and uptake of vinyl chloride monomer administered by various routes to rats. J Toxicol Environ Health l:3Sl-394.
*Wittsiepc J, Selenka F, Jackwerth E. 1990. Gas-chromatographic determination of trace amounts of vinylchloride in water and air after derivation to 1,2-bromochloroethane. Presenius Journal of Analytical Chemistry 336:322-327.
*WoIdback T, Klaboe P. 1978. The photochemical reaction of vinyl chloride with oxygen studied by infared spectroscopy. Spectrochim Acta 34:481-487.
Wolf K, Holland R, Rajaratnam A. 1987. Vinyl chloride contamination: The hidden threat. Journal of Hazardous Materials 15:163-184.
*Wong O, Whorton MD, Ragland D, et al. 1986. An update of an epidemiologic study of vinyl chloride workers, 1942-1982. Prepared by Environmental Health Associates, Inc. for Chemical Manufacturers Association,
*Wood JA, Porter ML. 1987. Hazardous pollutants in class II landfills. JAPCA 37:609-615.
*Wu W, Steenland K, Brown D, et al. 1989. Cohort and case-control analyses of workers exposed to vinyl chloride: An update. J Occup Med 31:518-523.
*Young P, Parker A. 1984. Vapors and odors and toxic gases from landfills. In Hazardous and Industrial Waste Management and Testing: Third Symposium. ASTM STP 851. LP Jackson, AR Rohlik, PA Conway, eds. Philadelphia, PA: American Society for Testing and Materials. 24-41.
*Young TL, Santella RM. 1988. Development of techniques to monitor for exposure to vinyl chloride: Monoclonal antibodies to ethenoadenosine and ethenocytidine. Carcinogenesis 9:589-592.
Young DR, Gossett RW, Baird RB, et al. 1983. Wastewater inputs and marine bioaccumulation of priority pollutant organics off Southern California. In: Water Chlorination: Environ Impact Health Eff 4:871-884.
*Zhang J, Hatakeyama S, Akimoto H. 1983. Rate constants of the reaction of ozone with trans-1,2dichloroethene and vinyl chloride in air. Int J Chem Kinct 15:655-66S.
Zielhuis RL, Stijkel A, Verberk MM, et al. 1984. Plastic Monomers. Health Risks to Female Workers in Occupational Exposure to Chemical Agents. Berlin: Springer-Verlag. 42-47.
'"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"'
R&S 038022
145 S. REFERENCES
Zimmerman HJ. 1986. Effects of alcohol on other hepatotoxins. Alcoholism 10:3-15. TZuccato E, Mancucci F. Fanelli R, ct al. 1979. Head-space gas-chromatographic analysis of vinyl chloride monomer in rat blood and tissues. Xenobiotica 9:27-31.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038023
147
9. GLOSSARY
Acute Exposure -- Exposure to a chemical for a duration of 14 days or less, as specified in the Toxicological Profiles.
Adsorption Coefficient (K^) -- The ratio of the amount of a chemical adsorbed per unit weight of organic carbon in the soil or sediment to the concentration of the chemical in solution at equilibrium.
Adsorption Ratio (Kd) -- The amount of a chemical adsorbed bv a sediment or soil (i.e., the solid phase) divided by the amount of chemical in the solution phase, which is in equilibrium with the solid phase, at a fixed solid/solution ratio. It is generally expressed in micrograms, of chemical sorbed per gram of soil or sediment.
Bioconcentration Factor (BCF) -- The quotient of the concentration of a chemical in aquatic organisms at a specific time or during a discrete time period of exposure divided by the concentration in the surrounding water at the same time or during the same period.
Cancer Effect Level (CEL) -- The lowest dose of chemical in a study, or group of studies, that produces significant increases in the incidence of cancer (or tumors) between the exposed population and its appropriate control.
Carcinogen -- A chemical capable of inducing cancer.
Ceiling Value -- A concentration of a substance that should not be exceeded, even instantaneously.
Chronic Exposure - Exposure to a chemical for 365 days or more, as specified in the Toxicological Profiles.
Developmental Toxicity -- The occurrence of adverse effects on the developing organism that may result from exposure to a chemical prior to conception (either parent), during prenatal development, or postnatally to the time of sexual maturation. Adverse developmental effects may be detected at any point in the life span of the organism.
Embryotoxicity and Fetotoxicity -- Any toxic effect on the conceptus as a result of prenatal exposure to a chemical; the distinguishing feature between the two terms is the stage of development during which the insult occurred. The terms, as used here, include malformations and variations, altered growth, and in utero death.
EPA Health Advisory -- An estimate of acceptable drinking water levels for a chemical substance based on health effects information. A health advisory is not a legally enforceable federal standard, but serves as technical guidance to assist federal, state, and local officials.
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) -- The maximum environmental concentration of a contaminant from which one could escape within 30 min without any escape-impairing symptoms or irreversible health effects.
Intermediate Exposure - Exposure to a chemical for a duration of 15-364 days, as specified in the Toxicological Profiles.
Immunologic Toxicity - The occurrence of adverse effects on the immune system that may result from exposure to environmental agents such as chemicals.
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
9. GLOSSARY
In Vitro - Isolated from the living organism and artificially maintained, as in a test tube.
In Vivo -- Occurring within the living organism.
Lethal Concentration^o^ (L^lo^ " The lowest concentration of a chemical in air which has been reported to have caused death in humans or animals.
Lethal Concentration^^ (LCjq) -- A calculated concentration of a chemical in air to which exposure for a specific length of time is expected to cause death in 50% of a defined experimental animal population.
Lethal Dose^^ (LD^ -- The lowest dose of a chemical introduced by a route other than inhalation that is expected to have caused death in humans or animals.
Lethal Dose^ (LD^ -- The dose of a chemical which has been calculated to cause death in 50% of a defined experimental animal population.
Lethal Time^ (LT^ -- A calculated period of time within which a specific concentration of a chemical is expected to cause death in 50% of a defined experimental animal population.
Ixjwest-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level (LOAEL) -- The lowest dose of chemical in a study, or group of studies, that produces statistically or biologically significant increases in frequency or severity of adverse effects between the exposed population and its appropriate control.
Malformations -- Permanent structural changes that may adversely affect survival, development, or function.
Minimal Risk Level - An estimate of daily human exposure to a dose of a chemical that is likely to be without an appreciable risk of adverse noncancerous effects over a specified duration of exposure.
Mutagen - A substance that causes mutations. A mutation is a change in the genetic material in a body cell. Mutations can lead to birth defects, miscarriages, or cancer.
Neurotoxicity -- The occurrence of adverse effects on the nervous system following exposure to chemical.
No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level (NOAEL) -- The dose of chemical at which there were no statistically or biologically significant increases in frequency or severity of adverse effects seen between the exposed population and its appropriate control. Effects may be produced at this dose, but they are not considered to be adverse.
Octanol-Water Partition Coefficient (Kw) -- The equilibrium ratio of the concentrations of a chemical in n-octanol and water, in dilute solution.
Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) -- An allowable exposure level in workplace air averaged over an 8-hour shift.
qj* -- The upper-bound estimate of the low-dose slope of the dose-response curve as determined by the multistage procedure. The qj* can be used to calculate an estimate of carcinogenic potency, the incremental excess cancer risk per unit of exposure (usually pg/L for water, mg/kg/day for food, and pg/m3 for air).
$4S
***DRAFTFOR PUBLIC COMMENT*'*
149
9. GLOSSARY
Reference Dose (RfD) -- An estimate (with uncertainty spanning perhaps an order of magnitude) of the daily exposure of the human population to a potential hazard that is likely to be without risk ot deleterious effects during a lifetime. The RfD is operationally derived from the NOAEL (from animal and human studies) by a consistent application of uncertainty factors that reflect various types of data used to estimate RfDs and an additional modifying factor, which is based on a professional judgment of the entire database on the chemical. The RfDs are not applicable to nonthreshold effects such as cancer.
Reportable Quantity (RQ) - The quantity of a hazardous substance that is considered reportable under CERCLA. Reportable quantities are (1) 1 pound or greater or (2) for selected substances, an amount established by regulation either under CERCLA or under Sect. 311 _of the Clean Water Act. Quantities are measured over a 24-hour period.
Reproductive Toxicity -- The occurrence of adverse effects on the reproductive system that may result from exposure to a chemical. The toxicity may be directed to the reproductive organs and/or the related endocrine system. The manifestation of such toxicity may be noted as alterations in sexual behavior, fertility, pregnancy outcomes, or modifications in other functions that are dependent on the integrity of this system.
Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL) -- The maximum concentration to which workers can be exposed for up to 15 min continually. No more than four excursions are allowed per day, and there must be at least 60 min between exposure periods. The daily TLV-TWA may not be exceeded.
Target Organ Toxicity -- This term covers a broad range of adverse effects on target organs or physiological systems (e.g., renal, cardiovascular) extending from those arising through a single limited exposure to those assumed over a lifetime of exposure to a chemical.
Teratogen - A chemical that causes structural defects that affect the development of an organism.
Threshold Limit Value (TLV) -- A concentration of a substance to which most workers can be exposed without adverse effect. The TLV may be expressed as a TWA, as a STEL, or as a CL.
Time-Weighted Average (TWA) -- An allowable exposure concentration averaged over a normal 8-hour workday or 40-hour workweek.
Toxic Dose (TD^) -- A calculated dose of a chemical, introduced by a route other than inhalation, which is expected to cause a specific toxic effect in 50% of a defined experimental animal population.
Uncertainty Factor (UF) -- A factor used in operationally deriving the RfD from experimental data. UFs are intended to account for (1) the variation in sensitivity among the members of the human population, (2) the uncertainty in extrapolating animal data to the case of human, (3) the uncertainty in extrapolating from data obtained in a study that is of less than lifetime exposure, and (4) the uncertainty in using LOAEL data rather than NOAEL data. Usually each of these factors is set equal to 10.
20 Bo C/> O
CO 00
O ro ot
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
A-1
APPENDIX A USER'S GUIDE
33 J?o 03
O CO CD O to o>
Chapter 1 Public Health Statement
This chapter of the profile is a health effects summary written in nontechnical language. Its intended audience is the general public especially people living in the vicinity of a hazardous waste site or substance release. If the Public Health Statement were removed from the rest of the document, it would still communicate to the lay public essential information about the substance.
The major headings in the Public Health Statement are useful to find specific topics of concern. The topics are written in a question and answer format. The answer to each question includes a sentence that will direct the reader to chapters in the profile that will provide more information on the given topic.
Chapter 2
Tables and Figures for Levels of Significant Exposure (LSE)
Tables (2-1,2-2, and 2-3) and figures (2-1 and 2-2) are used to summarize health effects by duration of exposure and endpoint and to illustrate graphically levels of exposure associated with those effects. All entries in these tables and figures represent studies that provide reliable, quantitative estimates of No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Levels (NOAELs), Lowest-Observed- Adverse-Effect Levels (LOAELs) for Less Serious and Serious health effects, or Cancer Effect Levels (CELs). In addition, these tables and figures illustrate differences in response by species, Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs) to humans for noncancer end points, and EPA's estimated range associated with an upper-bound individual lifetime cancer risk of 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 10,000,000. The LSE tables and figures can be used for a quick review of the health effects and to locate data for a specific exposure scenario. The LSE tables and figures should always be used in conjunction with the text.
The legends presented below demonstrate the application of these tables and figures. A representative example of LSE Table 2-1 and Figure 2-1 are shown. The numbers in the left column of the legends correspond to the numbers in the example table and figure.
LEGEND
See LSE Table 2-1
(1) .
Route of Exposure One of the first considerations when reviewing the toxicity of a substance using these tables and figures should be the relevant and appropriate route of exposure. When sufficient data exist, three LSE tables and two LSE figures arc presented in the document. The three LSE tables present data on the three principal routes of exposure, i.e., inhalation, oral, and dermal (LSE Table 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3, respectively). LSE figures are limited to the inhalation (LSE Figure 2-1) and oral (LSE Figure 2-2) routes.
(2) .
Exposure Duration Three exposure periods: acute (14 days or less); intermediate (15 to 364 days); and chronic (365 days or more) are presented within each route of exposure. In this example, an inhalation study of intermediate duration exposure is reported.
***ORAFT FOR PUBUC COMMENT'
A-2 APPENDIX A
(3) .
Health Effect The major categories of health effects included in LSE tables and figures are death, systemic, immunological, neurological, developmental, reproductive, and cancer. NOAELs and LOAELs can be reported in the tables and figures for all effects but cancer. Systemic effects are further defined in the "System" column of the LSE table.
(4) .
Key to Figure Each key number in the LSE table link*: study information to one or more data points using the same key number in the corresponding LSE figure. In this example, the study represented by key number 18 has been used to define a NOAEL and a Less Serious LOAEL (also see the two "18r" data points in Figure 2-1).
(5) . Species The test species, whether animal or human, are identified in this column.
(6) .
Exposure Frequency/Duration The duration of the study and the weekly and daily exposure regimen are provided in this column. This permits comparison of NOAELs and LOAELs from different studies. In this case (key number 18), rats were exposed to [substance x] via inhalation for 13 weeks, 5 days per week, for 6 hours per day.
(7) .
System This column further defines the systemic effects. These systems include: respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hematological, musculoskeletal, hepatic, renal, and dermal/ocular. "Other" refers to any systemic effect (e.g., a decrease in body weight) not covered in these systems. In the example of key number 18, one systemic effect (respiratory) was investigated in this study.
(8) .
NOAEL A No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level (NOAEL) is the highest exposure level at which no harmful effects were seen in the organ system studied. Key number 18 reports a NOAEL of 3 ppm for the respiratory system which was used to derive an intermediate exposure, inhalation MRL of 0.0006 ppm (see footnote "c").
). LOAEL A Lowest-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level (LOAEL) is the lowest exposure level used in the study that caused a harmful health effect. LOAELs have been classified into "Less Serious" and "Serious" effects. These distinctions help readers identify the levels of exposure at which adverse health effects first appear and the gradation of effects with increasing dose. A brief description of the specific end point used to quantify the adverse effect accompanies the LOAEL. The "Less Serious" respiratory effect reported in key number 18 (hyperplasia) occurred at a LOAEL of 10 ppm.
(10) . Reference The complete reference citation is given in Chapter 8 of the profile.
(11) .
CEL A Cancer Effect Level (CEL) is the lowest exposure level associated with the onset of carcinogenesis in experimental or epidemiological studies. CELs are always considered serious effects. The LSE tables and figures do not contain NOAELs for cancer, but the text may report doses which did not cause a measurable increase in cancer.
(12) . Footnotes Explanations of abbreviations or reference notes for data in the LSE tables are found in the footnotes. Footnote *c" indicates the NOAEL of 3 ppm in key number 18 was used to derive an MRL of 0.0006 ppm.
R&S 038027
LEGEND
See LSE Figure 2-1 LSE figures graphically illustrate the data presented in the corresponding LSE tables. Figures help the reader quickly compare health effects according to exposure levels for particular exposure duration.
-"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT--*
A-3 APPENDIX A
(13) . Exposure Duration The same exposure periods appear as in the LSE table. In this example, health effects observed within the intermediate and chronic exposure periods are illustrated.
(14) . Health Effect These are the categories of health effects for which reliable quantitative data exist. The same health effects appear in the LSE table.
(15) . Levels of Exposure Exposure levels for each health effect in the LSE tables are graphically displayed in the LSE figures. Exposure levels are reported on the log scale "y" axis. Inhalation exposure is reported in mg/m3 or ppm and oral exposure is reported in mg/kg/dav.
(16) ,
NOAEL In this example, 18r NOAEL is the critical end point for which an intermediate inhalation exposure MRL is based. As you can see from the LSE figure key, the open-circle symbol indicates a NOAEL for the test species (rat). The key number 18 corresponds to the entry' in the LSE table. The dashed descending arrow indicates the extrapolation from the exposure level of 3 ppm (see entry 18 in the Table) to the MRL of 0.0006 ppm (see footnote "c" in the LSE table).
(17) . CEL Key number 38r is one of three studies for which Cancer Effect Levels (CELs) were derived. The diamond symbol refers to a CEL for the test species (rat). The number 38 corresponds to the entry tn the LSE table.
(18) .
Estimated Upper-Bound Human Cancer Risk Levels This is the range associated with the upper-bound for lifetime cancer risk of 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 10,000,000. These risk levels are derived from EPA's Human Health Assessment Group's upper-bound estimates of the slope of the cancer dose response curve at low dose levels (q,*).
(19) . Key to LSE Figure The Key explains the abbreviations and symbols used in the figure.
R&S 038028
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT*"
appendix a DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
620880 S'SU
TABLE 2-1. Levels of Significant Expoaura to (Chemical x) - Inhalation
Key to figure'
Species
EH-- INTERMEDIATE EXPOSURE
s;,
| 3 j----- Systemic 0--' 16
I Rat
Exposure
frequency/ duration
System
;6,
1 n wk 5d/wk 6hr/d
7
1 Resp
NOAEL (ppm)
____________________ LQAEL (effect)
Less serious (ppm)
Serious (ppm)
8 9:
J) 3' 10 (hyperplasia)
Reference
10
1 Nitschke et at 1981
CHRONIC EXPOSURE
Cancer
38 Rat
18 mo 5d/uk "Jhr/d
39 Rat
89-104 wk
5d/wk 6hr/d
40 Mouse
79-103 wk 5d/wk 6hr/d
'The number corresponds to entries in Figure 2-1. ^Presented in Section 1.4.
Op
20b (CEL, multiple organs)
Wong et al. 1982
10b (CEL, lung tumors, NTP 1982 nasal tumors)
10b (CEL, lung tumors, HTP 1982 hemangiosarcomas)
'Used to derive an intermediate inhalation minimal risk level (HRL} of 4 x 10 mg/m1; concentration was converted to an equivalent concentration in humans; concentration was adjusted for intermittent exposure and divided by an uncertainty factor of 100 (10 for extrapolation from animal to humans. 10 for human variability). This MRL is converted into 6 x 10*4 ppm and is presented in Section 1.4.
CEL s cancer effect level; d = day; Derm/oc a dermal/ocular; Cd = gestation day; Gn pig ^ guinea pig; Hemato = hematological; hr = hour; LOAEL = lowest-observed-adverse-effeet level; LC,, = lethal concentration, S0% kill; mo = month; NOAEL = no-observedadverse-effect level; Resp s respiratory; vk = week
(
APPENDIX A DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT"'
fg]--------------------------- * INTERMEDIATE (15-364 Day*)
o.- ggo-frnO>
CHRONIC (385 Daya)
0* Om 3w <J* Om
o** o* o- 0*
u
on
10-4--i EMnutad Mpfw-
10 * Bouid Human Cancar Fbk
10 -
10 -1 -*
m {]
FIGURE 2-1 Levels of significant Exposure to [Chemical X]-inhalation 0E08S0 SSH
Chapter 2 (Section 2.4) Relevance to Public Health
A-6 APPENDIX A
R&S 038031
"Tie Relevance to Public Health section provides a health effects summary based on evaluations of existing jxicological, epidemiological, and toxicokinetic information. This summary is designed to present interpretive, 'eight-of-evidence discussions for human health end points by addressing the following questions.
1. What effects are known to occur in humans?
2. What effects observed in animals are likely to be of concern to humans?
3. What exposure conditions are likely to be of concern to humans, especially around hazardous waste sites?
The section discusses health effects by end point. Human data are presented first, then animal data. Both are organized by route of exposure (inhalation, oral, and dermal) and by duration (acute, intermediate, and chronic). In vitro data and data from parenteral routes (intramuscular, intravenous, subcutaneous, etc.) are also considered in this section. If data are located in the scientific literature, a table of genotoxicity information is included.
The carcinogenic potential of the profiled substance is qualitatively evaluated, when appropriate, using existing toxicokinetic, genotoxic, and carcinogenic data. ATSDR does not currently assess cancer potency or perform cancer risk assessments. MRLs for noncanccr end points if derived, and the end points from which they were derived are indicated and discussed in the appropriate section(s).
Limitations to existing scientific literature that prevent a satisfactory evaluation of the relevance to public health are identified in the Identification of Data Needs section.
Interpretation of Minimal Risk Levels
Where sufficient toxicologic information was available, MRLs were derived. MRLs are specific for route (inhalation or oral) and duration (acute, intermediate, or chronic) of exposure. Ideally, MRLs can be derived from all six exposure scenarios (e.g., Inhalation - acute, -intermediate, -chronic; Oral - acute, -intermediate, chronic). These MRLs are not meant to support regulatory action, but to aquaint health professionals with exposure levels at which adverse health effects are not expected to occur in humans. They should help physicians and public health officials determine the safety of a community living near a substance emission, given the concentration of a contaminant in air or the estimated daily dose received via food or water. MRLs are based largely on toxicological studies in animals and on reports of human occupational exposure.
MRL users should be familiar with the toxicological information on which the number is based. Section 2.4, "Relevance to Public Health," contains basic information known about the substance. Other sections such as 2.6, "Interactions with Other Chemicals" and 2.7, "Populations that are Unusually Susceptible" provide important supplemental information,
MRL users should also understand the MRL derivation methodology. MRLs are derived using a modified version of the risk assessment methodology used by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (Barnes and Dourson, 1988; EPA 1989a) to derive reference doses (RfDs) for lifetime exposure.
To derive an MRL, ATSDR generally selects the end point which, in its best judgement, represents the most sensitive human health effect for a given exposure route and duration. ATSDR cannot make this judgement or
'DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
R&s 038032
A-7 APPENDIX A
derive an MRL unless information (quantitative or qualitative) is available for ail potential effects (e.g., systemic, neurological and developmental). In order to compare NOAELs and LOAELs for specific end points, all inhalation exposure levels are adjusted for 24hr exposures and all intermittent exposures for inhalation and oral routes of intermediate and chronic duration are adjusted for continous exposure (i.e., 7 days/week). If the information and reliable quantitative data on the chosen end point are available, ATSDR derives an MRL using the most sensitive species (when information from multiple species is available) with the highest NOAEL that does not exceed any adverse effect levels. The NOAEL is the most suitable end point for deriving an MRL. When a NOAEL is not available, a Less Serious LOAEL can be used to derive an MRL, and an uncertainty factor (UF) of 10 is employed. MRLs are not derived from Serious LOAELs. Additional uncertainty factors of 10 each are used for human variability to protect sensitive subpopulations (people who are most susceptible to the health effects caused by the substance) and for interspecies variability (extrapolation from animals to humans). In deriving an MRL, these individual uncertainty factors are multiplied together. The product is then divided into the adjusted inhalation concentration or oral dosage selected from the study. Uncertainty factors used in developing a substance-specific MRL are provided in the footnotes of the LSE Tables.
***DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT'
R&S 038033
*f
8-1
APPENDIX B ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, AND SYMBOLS
ACGIH ADME Jim ATS DR BCF BSC C CDC CEL CERCLA CFR CLP cm CNS d DHEW DHHS DOL ECG EEG EPA EKG F
Fl FAO FEMA FIFRA fpm ft FR g GC gen HPLC hr IDLH [ARC ILO in Kd
kg kkg
Koc
L
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion atmosphere Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry bioconcentration factor Board of Scientific Counselors Centigrade Centers for Disease Control Cancer Effect Level Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act Code of Federal Regulations Contract Laboratory Program centimeter central nervous system day Department of Health, Education, and Welfare Department of Health and Human Services Department of Labor electrocardiogram electroencephalogram Environmental Protection Agency see ECG Fahrenheit first filial generation Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations Federal Emergency Management Agency Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act feet per minute foot Federal Register gram gas chromatography generation high-performance liquid chromatography hour Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health International Agency for Research on Cancer International Labor Organization inch adsorption ratio kilogram metric ton organic carbon partition coefficient octanol-water partition coefficient liter
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
B-2 APPENDIX B
LC
LC^
lc50
LDu LD50 LOAEL LSE m mg min mL mm mmHg mmol mo mppcf MRL MS NIEHS NIOSH NIOSHTIC
ng rnn NHANES nmol NOAEL NOES NOHS NPL NEC NTIS NTP OSHA PEL
Pg pmol PHS PMR
ppb ppm ppt REL RfD RTECS sec SCE SIC SMR
liquid chromatography lethal concentration, low lethal concentration, 50% kill lethal dose, low lethal dose, 50% kill lowest-observed-adverse-effect level Levels of Significant Exposure meter milligram minute milliliter millimeter millimeters of mercury millimole month millions of particles per cubic foot Minimal Risk Level mass spectrometry National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health NIOSH's Computerized Information Retrieval System nanogram nanometer National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey nanomole no-observed-adversc-cffect level National Occupational Exposure Survey National Occupational Hazard Survey National Priorities List National Research Council National Technical Information Service National Toxicology Program Occupational Safety and Health Administration permissible exposure limit picogram picomole Public Health Service proportionate mortality ratio parts per billion parts per million parts per trillion recommended exposure limit Reference Dose Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances second sister chromatid exchange Standard Industrial Classification standard mortality ratio
R&S 038034
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
R&S 038035
LC LClo lc50
ld50 LOAEL LSE m mg min mL mm mmHg mmol mo mppcf MRL MS NIEHS NIOSH NIOSHTIC ng nm NHANES nmol NOAEL NOES NOHS NPL NRC NTIS NTP OSHA PEL Pg pmol PHS PMR ppb ppm ppt REL RfD RTECS sec SCE SIC SMR
B-3 APPENDIX B
STEL STORET TLV TSCA TRI TWA U.S. UF
yr WHO wk
short term exposure limit STORAGE and RETRIEVAL threshold limit value Toxic Substances Control Act Toxics Release Inventory time-weighted average United States uncertainly factor
year World Health Organization
week
>
,> i,<
_<
% a
1P &
1 /im
Mg
greater than greater than or equal to
equal to less than less than or equal to percent alpha beta delta gamma micron microgram
DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
C-1
APPENDIX C
PEER REVIEW
A peer review panel was assembled for vinyl chloride. The panel consisted of the following members: Dr. Finis Cavender, Associate Professor, Abilene Christian University, Abilene, Texas; Dr. Richard Monson, Director, Occupational Health Program, Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts; and Dr. Martha Radike, Research Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio. These experts collectively have knowledge of vinyl chloride's physical and chemical properties, toxicokinetics, key health end points, mechanisms of action, human and animal exposure, and quantification of risk to humans. All reviewers were selected in conformity with the conditions for peer review specified in Section 104(i)(13) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, as amended.
Scientists from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) have reviewed the peer reviewers' comments and determined which comments will be included in the profile. A listing of the peer reviewers' comments not incorporated in the profile, with a brief explanation of the rationale for their exclusion, exists as part of the administrative record for this compound. A list of databases reviewed and a list of unpublished documents cited are also included in the administrative record.
The citation of the peer review panel should not be understood to imply its approval of the profile's final content. The responsibility for the content of this profile lies with the ATSDR.
R&S 038036
"DRAFT FOR PUBLIC COMMENT***
*U.S. Government Printing Office: 1991 537-123