Health hazard alert--benzidine-, o-tolidine-, and o-dianisidine-based dyes DHHS (NIOSH) publication No. 81-106.

Recent data from animal tests, case reports, and other sources about the carcinogenic effects and metabolism of benzidine-, o-tolidine-, and o-dianisidine-based dyes have come to the attention of OSHA and NIOSH. Both agencies have reviewed the data and concluded that the findings establish the potential of these dyes to cause cancer in humans. OSHA and NIOSH conclude that persons working with these dyes should be aware of the potential health hazards that could result from excessive exposure to them. The intent of this document is to summarize the information available on the carcinogenic effects and metabolism of benzidine-, o-tolidine-, and 0-dianisidine-based dyes and to provide guidance so that employers, employees, and physicians may work together to reduce potential health hazards that could result from excessive exposure to these dyes.