Reducing occupational exposure to chemical carcinogens

Strategies for controlling occupational exposure to chemicalcarcinogens are set out in the European Union Carcinogens Directiveand in national legislation such as the British Control of SubstancesHazardous to Health Regulations. While such legislative requirementsmust apply to all occupational chemical carcinogens, it is arguedthat priority should be given to controlling those agents thatcontribute most to the cancer burden. Examples of possible strategiesto reduce exposure to two agents (diesel exhaust particulateand paint emissions) are discussed. It is concluded that thereare no real technical difficulties in controlling exposuresto chemical carcinogens; however, for many of the key agents,we need to change attitudes to the potential risks and clearlydemonstrate to employers and employees how to reduce the exposures.