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10
In the scenarios, an assessment was performed based on exposure via
inhalation of volatile substances during the use of textile dye products, by
dermal contact if the consumer gets his hands contaminated or is exposed by
an equal amount from the dyed textile. Further, a scenario is included for oral
exposure based on mouthing of fingers, product or dyed textiles. The latter
may hardly be avoided if the family includes toddlers.
Two of the evaluated substances (1,4-dichlorobenzene and 1,4-dioxane) are
classified carcinogenic category 3 (R40 Limited evidence of carcinogenic
effect). Both substances have been assessed in the EU risk assessment
programme. The reports indicate a threshold to carcinogenic effects. Thus at
the determined levels the substance may not be of significance but the
manufacturer and the consumer perhaps should consider alternatives.
The product containing 3-isocyanatomethyl-3,5,5-trimethyl-cyclohexyl
isocyanate (IPDI) is assessed not to pose an immediate health risk to the
consumer of the studied textile colorant. However, the margin of safety
(MOS) is low indicating a potential health concern and prolonged exposure
should be avoided with products containing this substance. It should be noted
also that the substance may cause sensitisation by skin contact and by
inhalation. Heating of the colorants containing this substance should be
performed under ventilation.
Products containing isobutane also had a very low margin of safety (MOS)
indicating a potential health concern. Prolonged exposure should be avoided
with products containing this substance. Use of products containing the
substance should be performed under aeration or ventilation.
The conclusion of the project is that none of the evaluated chemical
substances would cause any immediate adverse health effects to the consumer
at the estimated exposure levels by inhalation, dermal or oral contact.
The assessments are in most cases performed by comparing data from longterm
studies or even chronic data. As the exposure to textile colorants must be
assumed to be actual within shorter periods the conclusions should be
acceptable.
However, it should be noted that the consumer is exposed to more than one of
the substances simultaneously. Because the effect levels used in the evaluation
are based on varying effects they can not be added. Further the consumer
may be exposed to the same substances form other sources, e.g. other
products, environment or food, which could result in a total exposure above
the no-effect levels or tolerable daily intake values. Especially exposure to
substances with low MOS values (e.g. isobutane and IPDI) may be critical.