Overview: Intertox focused on assessing the evidence that reported neurological symptoms in flight attendants infrequently exposed to “fumes” in airline cabins were caused by exposure to TCP in engine oils or hydraulic fluids drawn into the air-processing unit.
Service Areas: Exposure Assessment, Risk Assessment, Air Sampling, Litigation Support
Chemicals of Concern: Tricresyl phosphate (TCP), Tri-ortho cresyl phosphate (TOCP), Tributyl phosphate (TBP)
Approaches: In support of litigation, Intertox conducted a toxicological evaluation of several organophosphate compounds, including TCP and TBP, added to some jet engine oils and hydraulic fluids to provide anti-wear properties.
The case focused on assessing the evidence that reported neurological symptoms in flight attendants infrequently exposed to “fumes” in airline cabins were caused by exposure to TCP in engine oils or hydraulic fluids drawn into the air-processing unit. Dr. Pleus served as a testifying expert for the defense, and Intertox provided critical toxicological expertise.
To support the defense, Intertox evaluated the medical literature on neurological effects to TCP and related compounds in animals and humans exposed to the materials of interest and identified toxicity thresholds and potential sources of alternative causality. The case focused in particular on the potential for development of organophosphate-induced delayed neuropathy (OPIDN) and effects from acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition.
To support retrospective calculation of exposure levels, Intertox developed a study to quantify odor thresholds for the oil and hydraulic fluid, and assessed their relationship to thresholds for adverse health effects.
Client Benefit: We provided the client with an independent expert assessment that determined the dose of TCP in aircraft cabin air is not sufficient to cause adverse health effects.