Where It Comes From
Industrial solvent dye used in polishes, petroleum products, lacquers/varnishes, plastics, and inks; may be present in some older or imported items [1].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing workplace dust/vapors during dye manufacture or ink/paint mixing; skin contact with powders/solutions or freshly dyed materials; accidental hand-to-mouth transfer [1][2].
Why It Matters
Classified by IARC as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) and by NTP as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen; causes liver tumors in animals; can irritate skin/eyes [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in dye/pigment production, printing and ink manufacturing, plastics and leather processing, and labs; people using solvent-dye polishes or inks in poorly ventilated areas [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Choose products without this dye (look for “o‑aminoazotoluene,” “C.I. Solvent Yellow 3,” or CAS 97-56-3); use gloves and local exhaust at work; avoid heating/burning dyed materials; wash hands after handling; follow SDS and local disposal rules [2].
References
- [1]IARC Monographs. Some Aromatic Azo Compounds, Vol. 8. International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1975.
- [2]NTP. Report on Carcinogens, 15th Edition. o-Aminoazotoluene. U.S. DHHS, National Toxicology Program.