Decontamination of aromatic amine cancer-suspect agents on concrete, metal, or painted surfaces

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Abstract
A cleanup protocol for aromatic amine cancer-suspect agents involved in major or minor spills is described. Initially the scheme concerns transformation of amines to water/methanol soluble salts and, if necessary, a subsequent removal of residual trace amine by conversion to the corresponding Schiff base. The protocol assures quantitative removal of the subject amine. Among those compounds deemed carcinogenic is the broad category of primary aromatic amines. As such, a number of these amine compounds have been classified as cancer-suspect agents by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA of the USA] and their use is regulated. Because of the dangers associated with these compounds, human exposure to them via ingestion, inhalation or skin absorption must be an absolute minimum. Accordingly, surfaces which have been exposed to localized contamination by these materials via major and minor spills must be decontaminated in such a fashion as to quantitatively remove the chemical of interest from the surfaces. A decontamination procedure for all aromatic amines on the original OSHA list of 14 cancer-suspect agents is described. The studies show the hazards which accompany the existence of porous surfaces such as concrete (or by implication, unpainted wood) in areas where dangerous chemicals are used. All concrete or wood surfaces in chemical work areas should be painted with a nonpermeable paint, preferably oil base or epoxy. This, coupled with regular routine cleaning and decontamination, will minimize occupational health problems for humans working with these potentially harmful substances.

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