42
1,1,1-trichloroethane (levels unknown) showed evidence of a toxic encephalopathy, with
1
symptoms similar to those seen after exposure to other solvents. The principal finding at
2
autopsy of victims of occupational poisoning or solvent abuse has generally been lung
3
oedema. Repeated, controlled exposures to up to 500 ppm 1,1,1-trichloroethane produced
4
mild CNS disturbance.
5
Refs. Stewart RD and Andrews JT JAMA 1966 195 904-906
6
Stahl CJ et al., J. Forensic Sci. 1969 14 393-397
7
Hall FB and Hine CH J. Forensic Sci. 1966 11 404-413
8
Kelafant GA et al., Am. J. Indust. Med. 1994 25 439-446
9
Stewart RD et al., Arch. Environ. Health 1969 19 467-472
10
Very few studies have been carried out on workers exposed occupationally to 1,1,1-
11
trichloroethane for long periods. Multiple studies provide no convincing evidence of
12
genotoxicity of 1,1,1-trichloroethane itself. No anecdotal accounts suggesting carcinogenicity
13
in humans have been located, and the solvent gave negative results in 2-year rodent studies.
14
15
Environmental Impact
16
Under the revised Montreal Protocol, production and use of 1,1,1-trichloroethane are
17
scheduled to be phased out by the year 2005 by ratifying parties (excluding 10-year
18
derogations for developing nations), because of its contribution to atmospheric ozone
19
depletion (ozone-depleting potential 0.15, cf. 0.8-1.0 for fully halogenated CFCs, and short
20
residence time, but world production is high).
21
22
Conclusion
23
Animal toxicity generally low; not carcinogenic in well-designed studies. No evidence of
24
reproductive toxicity in adequate studies. Relatively low toxicity in man after acute or
25
repeated exposure.
26
The PDE for 1,1,1-trichloroethane is 15.0 mg/day (limit 1500 ppm). However, note that
27
production of 1,1,1-trichloroethane is scheduled to be phased out by 2005 under the Montreal
28
Protocol, because of atmospheric ozone depletion.
29