perlite and Bronchial-Hyperreactivity

Expanded perlite has been assumed as simple nuisance, however during an accidental spill out in Taiwan, among 24 exposed workers followed for more than 6 months, three developed persisted respiratory symptoms and positive provocation tests were compatible with reactive airway dysfunction syndrome. During simulation experiment expanded perlite is shown to be very dusty and greatly exceed current exposure permission level. Review of literature and evidence, though exposure of expanded perlite below permission level may be generally safe, precautionary protection of short term heavy exposure is warranted.

Topics: Air Pollutants; Airway Obstruction; Aluminum Oxide; Bronchial Hyperreactivity; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Humans; Inhalation Exposure; Occupational Exposure; Review Literature as Topic; Silicon Dioxide; Taiwan