individuals may be exposed to phenol through breathing contaminated air or through skin contact in the workplace
Other exposures to phenol may occur through the use of phenol-containing medicinal products (including mouthwashes, toothache drops, throat lozenges, analgesic rubs, and antiseptic lotions) or smoking tobacco.
Clinical features
acute
inhalation and dermal exposure to phenol is highly irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes in humans.
systemic exposure may cause irregular breathing, muscle weakness and tremors, loss of coordination, convulsions, coma, and respiratory arrest at lethal doses.
chronic exposure
Anorexia, progressive weight loss, diarrhea, vertigo, salivation, and a dark coloration of the urine.
Gastrointestinal irritation and blood and liver effects have also been reported.