Ethylacrylat [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2016]

Abstract

MAK Value Documentation for Ethyl acrylate The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) of ethyl acrylate of 5 ml/m 3 , considering all toxicity endpoints. Available unpublished study reports and publications are described in detail. The critical effect of ethyl acrylate is irritation of eye and nose in humans and the olfactory mucosa in rats and mice. The chronic NOAEC in rats is 5 ml/m 3 . Since 2014 the Commission uses an empirical approach to set MAK values for substances with critical effects on the upper respiratory tract or the eyes. Accordingly, the MAK value has to be lowered to 2 ml/m 3 , which is confirmed in a recent volunteer study with a NOAEC of 2.5 and a LOAEC of 5 ml ethyl acrylate/m 3 . As local effects are critical, the assignment to Peak Limitation Category I and the excursion factor of 2 are confirmed. Developmental toxicity studies with ethyl acrylate show that damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely if the MAK value is observed, and the assignment to Pregnancy Risk Group C is retained. Ethyl acrylate is not genotoxic in vivo and not carcinogenic. Skin contact may contribute significantly to systemic toxicity and ethyl acrylate is designated with an “H” notation. The available data confirm that the substance is a skin sensitizer and the designation with “Sh” is retained. There are no data concerning the potential for respiratory sensitization.