Acrolein (2-propenal): Health effects
Description
Symptoms of single or short-term exposure to acrolein may include irritation to the eyes, skin and the mucous membranes of the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. It can be corrosive. Exposure can lead to decreased pulmonary function, pulmonary oedema (a build up of fluid in the lungs, characterised by severe shortness of breath), and chronic respiratory disease.
Longer term exposure to acrolein may result in general respiratory congestion and eye, nose and throat irritation. Systemic effects to the respiratory, reproductive, neurological and haematological systems may also result.
Entering the body
Acrolein can enter the body by ingestion, inhalation of vapours, or by absorption through the skin or eyes.
Cigarette smoke and vehicle exhaust contain acrolein.
Exposure
Exposure to acrolein may result from tobacco smoke or breathing air containing tobacco smoke or vehicle exhaust, working in or living near industries where acrolein is manufactured or used to make other chemicals, or by inhaling vapours from overheated cooking oil or grease. Small amounts of acrolein may be found in some foods, such as fried foods and roasted coffee.
Health guidelines
Workplace exposure:
Currently, the eight-hour time weighted average (TWA) exposure limit is 0.23 milligrams of acrolein per cubic metre of air. A 15-minute short term exposure limit (STEL) is 0.69 milligrams of acrolein per cubic metre of air.
Australian drinking water guidelines:
No drinking water guidelines have been established for acrolein.
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