| Description |
Tanners may be exposed to chromium, sulfuric acid, leather dust, and H2S. Tanning uses either vegetable or chromium (III) solutions. In the past, tanning was done with the more toxic chromium (VI). [ILO Encyclo, Vol. 3, p. 88.1-88.12] Other potential exposures include: nitrosamines, chromate pigments, benzidine-based dyes, formaldehyde, and aromatic organic solvents. [Stern, FB. Mortality of chrome leather tannery workers and chemical exposures in tanneries. [Scand J Work Environ Health. 1987 Apr;13(2):108-17] Calcium oxide is a dehairing agent. Hydrogen sulfide can evolve if acid reacts with sodium sulfide, also used for dehairing. Ammonia is generated from ammonium buffering salts and protein putrefaction. Various biocides are used. [Hills B, Fajen J. Leather Manufacturing. In: Zenz C, ed. Occupational Medicine: Principles and Practical Applications, 2nd Ed. Chicago: Year Book Medical Publishers, 1988:1036-1039.] Leather tanning and processing is not classifiable as to carcinogenicity to humans. [IARC] |
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