Exposure of the skin to methyl bromide: a study of six cases occupationally exposed to high concentrations during fumigation

The effects of exposure of the skin to high concentrations of methyl bromide were studied in 6 cases, who had been unintentionally exposed. Exposure to high concentrations of methyl bromide (approximately 40 g/m³) for 40 min can lead to redness and blistering of the skin. This cannot be prevented by wearing standard protective clothing. Skin lesions show a preference for relatively moist skin areas. Plasma bromide levels were highest immediately following exposure (mean 9.0 ± 1.4 mg/l) and fell in subsequent hours (mean 6.8 ± 2.3 mg/l 12 h after the exposure), suggesting absorption of (methyl) bromide through the skin. No systemic effects were noted in this series. Fumigation with methyl bromide should not be done in such a way as to require the presence of workers inside closed areas, where methyl bromide is released.