Dust entry

Enzyme detergent powder dust

Airborne detergent powder containing enzyme additives such as subtilisins, generated during manufacture or handling.

Airborne form

dust

The form describes what is suspended in air at the point of exposure. A material can produce more than one form, such as dust during handling and fume during heating.

Health effects

occupational asthmaimmune-mediated bronchoconstrictionrespiratory irritationskin irritationrespiratory sensitization

Evidence

NIOSH describes subtilisins as capable of causing immune-system-mediated bronchoconstriction and respiratory symptoms, and cites dose-related sensitization symptoms among workers exposed to enzyme detergent powders.

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Health effects

They are considered a threat to occupational health because they cause immune-system-mediated bronchoconstriction and respiratory symptoms in addition to primary irritation of the skin and respiratory tract.

Controls

enclosed powder handling
local exhaust ventilation
dust suppression
substitution with low-dust formulations
exposure monitoring
medical surveillance
appropriate respiratory protection