| Description | Circumstances of exposure and related occupations |
|---|---|
| Aromatic amines are a type of chemical found mainly in the manufacture of dyes and pigments for colouring textiles, leather, and paper, and in the rubber industry. The most important aromatic amines are benzidine, 4-aminobiphenyl, 2-naphthylamine, and ortho-toluidine, among others. |
Workers may be exposed to aromatic amines in the production of dyes, pigments, and rubber chemicals. Two industrial processes (auramine manufacture and magenta production) are additional sources of exposure to aromatic amines. Occupational exposure occurs mainly via dermal contact. A total of 22 aromatic amines, which are released by the dyes often used in the colouring process of textiles and leather, have been prohibited in the European Union (Regulation (European Commission) 1907/2006). Workers exposed in the past may still carry an increased cancer risk.
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