Toxicological evaluation and limit values for Methyl-tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE), Formaldehyde, Glutaraldehyde, Furfural 3. Human toxicity3.1 Short term toxicity The main effect of furfural in humans has been reported to be skin and mucous membrane irritation. In a NIOSH study of a grinding wheel plant, it was noted that furfural vapour in concentrations of 5 to 16 ppm (20-64 mg/m3) caused irritation of the eyes and respiratory passages (NIOSH 1975 - quoted from ACGIH 1991, A&H 1984). In an old report, factory workers complained of headache and irritations to the throat and eyes. Air concentrations were reported to be about 2-14 ppm (8-56 mg/m3). (Korenman & Resnik 1930 - quoted from Brabec 1994, ACGIH 1991, A&H 1984). 3.2 Long term toxicity No data have been found. 3.3 Reproductive and developmental effects No data have been found. 3.4 Mutagenic and genotoxic effects Six workers exposed to furfural and furfuryl alcohol in a furoic resin plant showed no significant difference in sister chromatid exchange frequency in peripheral blood lymphocytes in comparison with six control individuals (Gomez-Arroyo & Souza 1985 - quoted from IARC 1995 and JECFA 1993). 3.5 Carcinogenic effects No data have been found.
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