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4286436 
Technical Report 
A literature review--Problem definition studies on selected toxic chemicals. Occupational health and safety aspects of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), volume 3 
Zakhari, S; Villaume, JE; Craig, PN 
1978 
NIOSH/00136751 
S 
17-77 
English 
is related to other part(s) 4286435 A literature review problem definition studies on selected toxic chemicals, volume 3 of 8. Occupational health and safety aspects of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT)
The occupational safety and health problems of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (118967) (TNT) are reviewed. TNT fumes may cause toxic effects such as sore throat, sneezing, and lung damage. Topical application results in liver malfunction, faulty hemopoiesis, and sometimes death. TNT may also damage the heart, kidneys, pancreas, and eyes. Symptoms of TNT poisoning include nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, and skin rash. One diagnostic tool is the red coloration of the urine. OSHA has a limit of 1.5 grams per cubic meter of TNT in the air, 3 times the limit of the US Army. Cats are more sensitive to TNT toxic effects than are rabbits, rats, or monkeys. TNT does not cause cancer in laboratory animals, but it does cause mutations in bacteria and chromosomal abnormalities in rat bone marrow cells. Various forms of biological degradation of TNT are presented. The authors recommend routine medical examinations for TNT workers to test for blood and liver functions, as well as safe air limits, clean clothes, and showers at the workplace.