Archive | 2021
N-Methylformamide. Documentation of proposed values of occupational exposure limits (OELs)
Abstract
N-Methylformamide is a colorless liquid with an ammoniacal odor, used as a solvent and an intermediate for chemical reactions. There are no data on occupational exposure in Poland. N-Methylformamide is very well absorbed into the human body. The LD50 values for N-methylformamide administered to animals in various routes are similar (2600 ÷ 4000 mg/kg bw). After single or short-term administration of the compound in doses of 100 ÷ 1200 mg/kg bw. worsening symptoms of liver damage have been observed. No-observed adverse effect concentration (NOAEC) was established at 120 mg/m3 (two-week inhalation exposure in rats). Increase of hepatotoxic effect of N-methylformamide were observed at concentrations of 320 mg/m3 and 980 mg/m3. There are no data on sub-chronic, chronic and carcinogenic effects of the compound in laboratory animals. N-Methylformamide was not mutagenic and genotoxic. It caused embryotoxic and teratogenic effects. The NOAEC value (120 mg/m3) was used as the basis for determining the MAC (maximum acceptable concentration) value for N-methylformamide, and the MAC value for N-methylformamide was calculated at 3.3 mg/m3. There are no basis to determine the short-term value (STEL) and biological limit value (BLV). It has been proposed to label the compound as Ft (toxic for reproduction) and skin (skin absorption of the substance may be as important as inhalation exposure). This article discusses the problems of occupational safety and health, which are covered by health sciences and environmental engineering\n\n