Tar, Pitch, Bitumen & Creosote

Tar, Pitch, Bitumen & Creosote

Main Industries and Occupations at Risk

  • Manufacture of coal tar, pitch, bitumen and creosote (Coke oven industries);
  • Coal gasifi cation;
  • Coke production;
  • Water proofing of wood, making of roofing and insulating materials;
  • Lining irrigation canals and reservoirs;
  • Manufacture of dyestuff , e.g., carbon black;
  • Manufacture of paints;
  • Chemical feedstock for the production of benzene, toluene, xylene, phenol;
  • Sealing agents, e.g., in battery manufacture;
  • Lubricant for die moulds. 

Medical Examinations

Indications:

  • Any occupational exposure to coal tar, coal tar pitch and coal tar creosote.

Types of Tests and Frequency of Examinations:

  • Pre-placement medical examination: within 3 months of exposure
    • Clinical examination with emphasis on skin, lungs, gastrointestinal system and bladder.
  • Periodic medical examinations: every 12 months
    • Clinical examination with emphasis on the skin, lungs, gastrointestinal system and bladder.