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2251316 
Technical Report 
Health Hazards of Nitroglycerin and Nitroglycol 
Keogh, J 
1977 
NIOSH/00130047 
Denver 
16 
The hazards encountered in the manufacture and use of nitroglycerine (55630) and nitroglycol (628966) are reviewed. The manufacturing process is outlined for explosives which contain nitroglycerine and other nitrates. The medical application of nitroglycerine is noted to be useful in determining exposure effects to explosives workers. The effect of the compounds on the dilation of blood vessels is detailed. Tolerance to nitroglycerine exposure is mentioned. Cases of sudden death in explosives workers are described, resulting from exposure to nitroglycerine. This syndrome particularly affects cartridge packers. There is no clear relation to length of time worked or age. It occurs after some period away from the job, usually on Sunday or early Monday, and is thought to be related to nitroglycerine tolerance. Methods of protection against the risk are considered. The author concludes with a list of specific recommendations for nitrates workers, the most important of which is to avoid exposure.