Occupational Exposure to Trichloramine and Endotoxins: Adverse Health Effects Among Personnel in Adventure and Rehabilitation Swimming Pool Facilities

J Occup Environ Med. 2022 May 1;64(5):361-369. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002483. Epub 2022 Jan 11.

Abstract

Objective: To study occupational exposure totrichloramine and endotoxins in air at adventure and rehabilitation swimming pool facilities from an adverse health effects perspective.

Methods: Air concentrations of trichloramine and endotoxins were measured in five adventure and 10 rehabilitation facilities. Respiratory and ocular symptoms were self-reported, and spirometry and fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FEno) were measured.

Results: Compared to rehabilitation facilities, the mean trichloramine concentrations in the adventure facilities were higher, both personal (80 μg/m3 (n = 41) vs 19 μg/m3 (n = 21)) and stationary (183 μg/m3 (n = 51) vs 23 μg/m3 (n = 32)), with higher frequency of ocular and respiratory symptoms. Low stationary endotoxin levels (<0.64 to 25 EU/m3) were found, compared to the reference value (90 EU/m3).

Conclusions: Higher trichloramine concentrations in air and more ocular and respiratory symptoms in adventure facilities call for adequate occupational exposure limits.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollution, Indoor* / adverse effects
  • Chlorides
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions*
  • Endotoxins / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Nitrogen Compounds
  • Occupational Exposure* / adverse effects
  • Occupational Exposure* / analysis
  • Swimming Pools*

Substances

  • Chlorides
  • Endotoxins
  • Nitrogen Compounds
  • nitrogen chloride