Diacetyl Likely
the Cause of Lung Disease
OSHA Seeks to regulate its use
Article Written By:
Robert E. Sheriff, CIH, CSP
Atlantic Environmental, Inc.
Dover, NJ
http://www.atlenv.com/
Diacetyl is the chemical that imparts the buttery flavor
to popcorn and other foods. As far back as 2004, information
began to suggest that it causes the lung disease, bronchiolitis
obliterans, a rare but serious lung disease.
It was appropriately named “Popcorn Workers Lungs” because
the first cases appeared in popcorn maker’s facilities
where the diacetyl can be heated and workers exposed day
after day. Incidentally, diacetyl is not just used in
popcorn factories, but in other food processing where
a buttery taste is desired such as in sauces, prepared
noodles, macaroni & cheese, and other prepared foods.
In September 2007, OSHA issued a warning of the possible
dangers to workers in such locations where diacetyl (also
called butanedione or 2,3 – butanedione Cas#431-03-8)
is processed and urged employers who use diacetyl to include
it in their Hazard Communication Programs and limit workers
exposure as much as possible.
On January 21, 2009, OSHA proposed a rule governing diacetyl
and food flavoring containing diacetyl (See Federal Register
Pages 74:3937-3947 or go to OSHA’s website at http//www.osha.gov
and type in DIACETYL). The January 21st notice
was only a proposed rulemaking and a search for information
on its uses, research studies on human exposure and available
information on safe/unsafe exposure levels for workers
in facilities where diacetyl is handled.
After a lengthy period of time (possibility late in 2009)
OSHA will publish the information gathered and possibly
propose a regulatory standard.
On February 24, 2009, OSHA published Chemical Sampling
Information on diacetyl including sampling methods and
known hazards – basically a MSDS -
(www.osha.gov/dts/chemicalsampling/date/ch_231710.html)
Atlantic Environmental does have the ability to sample
for diacetyl, evaluate exposures and develop controls.
For additional information contact us at www.atlenv.com
or call us at 1-800-344-4414.
Atlantic Environmental Inc
2 East Blackwell Street
Dover, NJ 07801
(800) 344-4414
(973) 366-4660
(973) 366-3116 Fax
info@atlenv.com
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