Propylene oxide

Abstract

Propylene oxide is a colourless, highly volatile, and flammable liquid primarily used as a chemical intermediate. Small amounts are used for the sterilization of medical equipment and for the fumigation of foodstuffs. The main route of human exposure is through inhalation at the work-place. This report evaluates available scientific data on the risks posed by propylene oxide to human health and the environment. On the basis of this analysis, the report concludes that propylene oxide should be regarded, for practical purposes, as presenting a carcinogenic risk for man, and that levels in the environment should be kept as low as feasible