An evaluation of some reports on risks to health from exposure to coal-tar-based wood preservatives

This report reviews evidence about health risks that may arise in people exposed to coal-tar-based wood preservatives. The limited information available that is relevant directly to possible effects in humans is assessed critically, from an epidemiological point of view. It is concluded that body contact with this class of materials can produce inflammatory skin conditions and benign tumours. The need for effective action to reduce the incidence of this kind of response is emphasised because there is fairly strong evidence that, under adverse conditions, such benign skin lesions may be precursors for skin cancer. There is no evidence that coal tar distillate fractions with boiling points below 360C (the main part of the mixtures used in timber preservation) can themselves give rise to skin cancer in man. Nor is there any evidence pointing to an excess of lung cancer in people who have been in contact with coal-tar-based wood preservatives. The report includes some suggestions for further research.