SPPH381B/TermProject/Alkaline battery- Samin/Granulation/Neurobehavioral dysfunctions, called Chronic manganese poisoning or manganism

Recognition

Symptoms of manganism are very similar to Parkinson's – shaking of the hands, arms and other appendages, loss of motor control, fixed facial expressions or facial muscle spasms, difficulty swallowing and others

Manganism is a disorder characterized by motor disturbances associated with neuropsychiatric and cognitive disabilities similar to Parkinson. The early phase of manganism is characterized by psychiatric symptoms, called ‘manganese madness’, with only few motor effects. A later phase is dominated by motor symptoms, such as bradykinesia, rigidity, little resting tremor, and postural instability. The most important neurotoxic effect caused by Manganese exposure is the damage to basal ganglia (BG) structures. The substance may have effects on the lungs and central nervous system, resulting in increased susceptibility to bronchitis, pneumonitis and neurological, neuropsychiatric disorders. Animal tests show that this substance possibly causes toxicity to human reproduction or development. In a study, the neurotoxic effects of occupational exposure to manganese were examined and it was shown that MnO2 accumulates within the basal ganglia in the brain.

Evaluation

WorkSafeBC has established limits for a worker's exposure to hazardous chemical substances. Generally, these exposure limits are established according to the Threshold Limit Values ("TLVs") adopted by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists ("ACGIH"). Except as otherwise determined by the Board, the employer must ensure that no worker is exposed to a substance that exceeds the ceiling limit, short-term exposure limit for 8-hour TWA(time-weighted average) prescribed by ACGIH. The exposure limit for 8-hour TWA Limit for manganese dioxide has been set to 0.2. An exposure control plan must be implemented when exposure monitoring indicates that a worker is or may be exposed to an air contaminant in excess of 50% of its exposure limit.

Control

Elimination or substitution Eliminating the hazard by substituting a safer process or material, where possible, is the most effective control. Some questions to consider:

1. Can less hazardous materials (like manganese-free welding rods) be used?

2. Can a process that generates fewer gases or fumes be used, such as cold joining?

Engineering controls Making physical modifications to facilities, equipment, and processes can reduce exposure. Some questions to consider:

1. Can general ventilation be improved?

2. Can fans be set up to move the smoke away from the welder and other workers?

3, Can local exhaust ventilation be used to remove contaminated air?

Administrative controls Changing work practices and work policies, and using awareness tools and training can limit the risk of exposure to welding gases and fumes. Some questions to consider:

1. Has an exposure control plan been developed?

2. Can warning signs be posted in the work area?

3. Can change areas provide separate stations for work and street clothes?

4.Can a hygiene awareness program be implemented?

Personal protective equipment This is the least preferred control. It must always be used in addition to at least one other control. Some questions to consider:

1. Do workers have appropriate respirators, eyewear, and protective clothing?

2. Have workers been fit-tested to ensure respirators are working effectively?

3. Has personal protective equipment been verified to ensure it is working properly?