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INTRODUCTION TO OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH |
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Absorption |
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Penetration through the skin can occur quite rapidly if the skin is cut or
abraded. Intact skin, however, offers a reasonably good barrier to chemicals.
Unfortunately, there are many compounds that can be absorbed through intact skin. Some substances are absorbed by way of the openings for hair follicles and other substances such as organic lead compounds, many nitro compounds, and organic phosphate pesticides dissolve in the fats and oils of the skin. Compounds that are good solvents for fats (such as toluene and xylene) also can cause problems by being absorbed through the skin. Many organic compounds, such as cyanides, and most aromatic amines, amides, and phenols, can produce systemic poisoning by direct contact with the skin. Absorption of toxic chemicals through the skin and eyes is the next important route of entry after inhalation. |
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