An Occupational Trichloromethane-Induced Hepatotoxicity Outbreak - Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province, China, October 2024.

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS TOPIC?: Trichloromethane (chloroform), a volatile halogenated solvent, is widely used in printing and industrial operations. Occupational exposure occurs predominantly through inhalation. Chronic exposure can induce hepatotoxicity, but early symptoms are non-specific, frequently resulting in underdiagnosis and severe adverse health outcomes.

WHAT IS ADDED BY THIS REPORT?: This study identified 43 cases of occupational trichloromethane-induced liver injury. The trichloromethane content in both solvents analyzed (57.65% and 66.59%) exceeded the regulatory limit of 20%. Furthermore, the peak airborne trichloromethane concentration in the printing workshop reached 110.3 mg/m3 - 5.5-fold the occupational exposure limit. Solvent exposure was established as the primary risk factor.

WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PRACTICE?: This incident highlights effective occupational health response strategies through coordinated occupational health examinations, solvent composition verification, environmental monitoring, and corporate guidance. It also underscores the need for environmental agencies to incorporate trichloromethane-specific exposure limits into VOC regulations. Enterprises should strengthen management of their Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) departments.