OSHA Recommends Safety Measures to Protect Workers from Diacetyl Exposure

Dec. 10, 2010
A new OSHA Safety and Health Information Bulletin and companion Worker Alert recommend that employers use safety measures to prevent exposing employees to the potentially fatal health effects of butter flavorings and other flavoring substances containing diacetyl or its substitutes.

Diacetyl is a chemical used to add flavor and aroma to food and other products. Some workers who breathe diacetyl on the job have become disabled or have died from severe lung disease. Some diacetyl substitutes also may cause harm.

OSHA strongly recommends that all flavoring and food manufacturers review and consider implementing applicable recommendations regarding engineering and work practice control measures, medical surveillance, workplace monitoring and use of appropriate personal protective equipment to minimize each worker's exposure to these flavoring substances.

“Illnesses arising from diacetyl exposure continue to place workers at risk,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. “It is vital that employers use preventive measures to protect their workers from the harmful effects caused by these dangerous chemicals.”

Currently, OSHA does not have permissible exposure limits for most flavoring substances, including diacetyl. However, flavorings manufacturing facilities are subject to other applicable OSHA mandatory standards including Respiratory Protection and Hazard Communication. Based on concerns for workers’ safety and health, OSHA is updating its National Emphasis Program on Microwave Popcorn Plants to include diacetyl substitutes and has initiated rulemaking on occupational exposure to diacetyl and food flavorings containing diacetyl.

For more safety and health information on diacetyl and other food flavorings, visit OSHA’s Safety and Health Topics page on Lung Disease Related to Butter Flavorings Exposure and the Hazard Communication Guidance for Diacetyl and Food Flavorings Containing Diacetyl.

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

Sponsored Recommendations

Managing Subcontractor Risks: Ensuring Compliance and Mitigating Disruptions in Complex Supply Chains

Sept. 26, 2024
Learn how to manage subcontractor risks and ensure compliance in complex supply chains. Explore best practices for risk mitigation, communication, and accountability.

Navigating ESG Risk in Your Supply Chain

Sept. 26, 2024
Discover the role of ESG in supply chains, from reducing carbon footprints to complying with new regulations and enhancing long-term business value.

Understanding ESG Risks in the Supply Chain

Sept. 26, 2024
Understand the critical role of ESG in supply chains, the risks for hiring companies, and the competitive edge suppliers gain by prioritizing sustainability.

Best Practices for Managing Subcontractor Risk

Sept. 26, 2024
Discover how to effectively manage subcontractor risk with unified strategies, enhanced oversight, and clear communication for consistent safety and compliance.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!