The authors submit information on occupational chlorine intoxications in the northern part of the former Central Slovak region during 1979-1999. During the above period 92 occupational chlorine intoxications were reported, i.e. 15.7% of all occupational intoxications notified by the Clinic of Occupational Diseases in Martin and departments of occupational medicine in the catchment area (Prievidza, Žilina, Ružomberok, Povážská Bystrica). The largest number of intoxications was reported from the chemical works in Nováky (74%), from Chemicelulóza Žilina (9.8%) and Slovak Cellulose Works and Paper Mills Ružomberok (3.2%). Occupations most frequently suffering from chlorine intoxication: service men 10.8%, laboratory assistants 8.7%, employees engaged in production an drying of chlorine 7.6%, chemists, smiths and warenhousemen 6.5% each. Other occupations accounted for smaller percentages. The most frequent intoxications were individual, in four instances mass intoxications were involved affecting 3-9 people. The authors draw attention to the large percentage of hospitalized subjects - 53.2%, and as many s 60.8% with work incapacity in the group of intoxicated subjects. The most frequently reported subjective complaints were cough in 89.1%, impaired respiration in 75%, burning of eyes and lacrimation in 57.6% and chest pain in 42.4%. Evaluation of intoxications from the occupational asprevealed that in 99% acute severe intoxications were involved, in 1% other occupational health damage with impairment of the airways during repeated chlorine inhalation. In the conclusion the authors emphasize the necessity to respect principles of protection and safety during work.

        Key words: chlorine intoxication, incidence, occupation, protection and safety at work