The Result of Managing the incidence of allergic responses to Platinum Salts

Introduction
The complex salts of Platinum are strong and powerful sensitizers that cause allergic effects known as Allergy to the Complex Salt Of Platinum (ACSOP). The most powerful allergen is Ammonium-Hexachloro-Platinate, which forms an antigen when combined with a protein like albumin in the body. Pre-existing health conditions such as skin disorders, chronic respiratory diseases, asthma and Tuberculosis may be aggravated by exposure and poor hygiene and smoking habits could make these employees more vulnerable to develop ACSOP. In addition many workers, especially artisans and process workers, are not concerned by the occasional skin rash that develops and disappears or the occurrence of a slight tight chest now and then. Ignoring these symptoms lead to a situation where seven employees were diagnosed as having developed ACSOP between 2004 and mid 2009.

Methods
“Right to know training” to all in the process
Strict Pre-employment Medical Surveillance Evaluation
Smoke free working area
Lots of personal hygiene education, training and investigation
Thorough history taking regarding allergies, hay fever, dermatitis and asthma and eczema and the exclusion of those
Early detection and removal from exposure
Thorough routine and periodic medical examinations

Results
Comprehensive and systematic management of workers has been implemented at the plant to monitor exposure to platinum salts. Smokers were excluded in the employment process. Through comprehensive medical surveillance it has been possible to reduce the incidence of ASCOP in the plant to zero cases from mid 2009 to mid 2011.

Discussion
This is a major achievement in the Platinum Industry. The increase of compensation payouts which could be prevented plays a large part in the financial stability of industries and the country. Employees need to be educated regarding the value and protection of their health at a young stage.