SAFETY MEASURES ADOPTED BY PROSTHETIC TECHNICIANS IN THE STATE OF PARAIBA, BRAZIL, DURING THE USE OF ACRYLIC RESIN

Abstract

Objective: Methyl methacrylate is a material widely used in prosthodontics which has been found to cause toxic effects. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the signs and symptoms that occur after exposure to acrylic resins and the safety measures taken during their use by prosthetic technicians from four cities in the state of Paraiba, Brazil. Material and Methods: We applied a questionnaire addressing the topics: type of service performed, time of working with the resin, signs and symptoms resulting from their exposure and safety measures taken during material handling. The sample consisted of 50 professionals working in the cities of João Pessoa (44%), Campina Grande (24%), Sousa (18%) and Cajazeiras (14%). Results: It was found that 72% of technicians had been working with acrylic resin for over 10 years. After short-term manipulation, 26% of professionals reported having had eye irritation, 18% headache and 14% itchy nose. In long-term exposures, 10% of professionals reported having had itchy nose, 8% skin irritation and 6% difficulty to breath. Eighty-four percent (84%) of practitioners reported not knowing any prosthetic technician who had experienced health issues attributed to the use of resin. Eight percent (8%) of respondents had already had occupational health issues. During the processing of resin, the most frequently measures taken were: keep the air circulation (82%), use of surgical masks (76%) and use of goggles (28%). Conclusion: Based on these results, we concluded that the prosthetic technicians of the early mentioned cities are susceptible to several occupational diseases due to be unaware of the toxicity of acrylic resins and not to employ effective safety methods. DESCRIPTORS Dental Materials. Dental Technicians. Security Measures.