[Nhcoll-l] hypersensitivity to denatured alcohol

[Dietrich, Elizabeth]

Yes, people can become allergic to alcohol, you should consult your doctor or an allergist.  We have a least one employee at our facility who has a doctor's order to stay away from alcohol, fortunately not one of the staff who works with it daily.   But also keep in mind, if you have specimens that were fixed in formalin first and then transferred to alcohol, there is always residual formalin present and that is an allergen for many people as well as an irritant and carcinogen even at low levels.

From: nhcoll-l-bounces at mailman.yale.edu [mailto:nhcoll-l-bounces at mailman.yale.edu] On Behalf Of Kareen Schnabel
Sent: Monday, February 18, 2013 5:35 PM
To: nhcoll-l at mailman.yale.edu
Subject: [Nhcoll-l] hypersensitivity to denatured alcohol

Dear listserv,
I would like to know whether anyone has experienced or knows someone who has developed a sensitivity to ethanol/ denatured ethanol/ methylated spirits? About 3 years ago we started to source Anhydrous Methylated Spirits of >98% ethanol and 0-2% of Methanol (we used to use HGAA ethanol).
For a year now I have increasingly struggled with an allergic response and I have the feeling it is work-related. We use personal protective gear and extraction around our collection but there are always residual fumes and contact. I thought this forum may provide a good source of experience.
Thanks for your help,
Kareen



Kareen Schnabel, Ph.D.
Collection Manager
Marine Biodiversity and Biosecurity
National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research Ltd.
Taihoro Nukurangi
Mail address: NIWA, Private Bag 14 901 Kilbirnie, Wellington, New Zealand
Street address: 301 Evans Bay Parade, Greta Point, Wellington
Tel: +64 4 386 0862 (direct)
Fax: +64 4 386 2153
Email: Kareen.Schnabel at niwa.co.nz<mailto:Kareen.Schnabel at niwa.co.nz>
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