Introduction
The following reports were submitted by former members of the Royal Australian Navy and were originally published on the Pussers Greenies website between 2003 and 2004.
These reports represent personal experiences, observations and concerns relating to chemicals, solvents and other potential health exposures encountered during naval service.
The reports are reproduced here as part of the historical record of the Pussers Greenies community.
These reports should not be considered medical evidence or medical advice.
TurcoSolv and Solvent Exposure Reports
Garry (Crewie) Thorburn – March 2004
TurcoSolv
I have collected a lot of information regarding TurcoSolv as well as Freon. I currently have a case going through DVA. If you need any information please email direct.
Regards,
Garry (Crewie) Thorburn
Bob Stevenson – March 2004
TurcoSolv
I am having a few problems with various parts of me and I wondered if anyone had had any joy in getting anything out of DVA when claiming for problems maybe caused by Turco.
I would appreciate any information.
Regards,
Stevo Stevenson
R52643
Noel Wright – November 2003
Dangers of TurcoSolv
I was sent this information from Rets via the GunPlot.
TurcoSolv contains a couple of very nasty substances – Trichloroethylene and Butoxyethanol.
For a very interesting read, log on to:
Product Information and Chemical Components
Garry (Crewie) Thorburn – October 2003
Ingredients of TurcoSolv
The following information was submitted regarding the composition of TurcoSolv:
| Component | Approximate Content |
|---|---|
| Trichloroethylene | 30–60% |
| Liquid Hydrocarbon | 30–60% |
| Methylene Chloride | 10% |
| Butoxyethanol | 10% |
Exposure Limits
| Chemical | Exposure Limit |
|---|---|
| Trichloroethylene | 50 ppm |
| Methylene Chloride | 50 ppm |
| Butoxyethanol | 25 ppm |
It is classified as Hazardous according to criteria of Worksafe Australia.
Regards,
Crewie
Supplier Advice Regarding TurcoSolv
Garry (Crewie) Thorburn – October 2003
TurcoSolv is still sold in Australia by a company called Avanti Chemicals in Queensland.
The representative I spoke with confirmed that Butoxyethanol was considered dangerous, however he stated that Trichloroethylene was an even greater concern.
Information available at the time suggested that Trichloroethylene may affect:
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Vision
- Central Nervous System
- Cranial Nerves
- Hearing
- Heart
Butoxyethanol was also reported as affecting:
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Central Nervous System
- Skin
The supplier advised that safe use required:
- Respiratory protection
- Protective gloves and clothing
- Eye protection
- No smoking, drinking or eating during use
Crewie concluded:
Of course wearing a pair of sandals and shorts up top in an enclosed compartment provided excellent protection.
Freon and Cleaning Solvents
John Osborne – October 2003
Freon was another product liberally used for cleaning motor windings and electrical equipment because it did not affect insulation.
We used Freon and TurcoSolv regularly in 44-gallon drums cut in half for washing equipment using brushes, spray bottles and soaking.
No safety gear was supplied and none was mentioned on the drums.
Butoxyethanol Concerns
Garry (Crewie) Thorburn – October 2003
As a result of John Osborne’s comments I looked up 2-Butoxyethanol on the internet.
It is very scary to read the side effects of Butoxyethanol.
If it was indeed a major ingredient of TurcoSolv, it is little wonder that the Navy remained tight-lipped about it.
Original Member Discussion
John Osborne – September 2003
Hey guys – remember TurcoSolv?
The cleaner/degreaser we practically made coffee with.
Apparently it is an eye and respiratory irritant, is easily absorbed through the skin and has numerous side effects.
The chemical is 2-Butoxyethanol.
Just thought I’d brighten up your day.
Skin Conditions and DVA Claims
Garry (Crewie) Thorburn – October 2003
I have been suffering from a skin condition affecting my forearms, hands, legs and face.
My skin is excessively dry and I experience a continual burning sensation.
I have consulted three different dermatologists and none have been able to offer an explanation.
I submitted a claim to DVA which was originally accepted but later rejected due to insufficient supporting evidence.
Any information that may assist would be greatly appreciated.
Historical Information Regarding TurcoSolv
Peter – The Greenies On-Line Team – October 2003
TurcoSolv was introduced into the RAN during the early 1960s as a replacement for Carbon Tetrachloride, which had already developed a reputation for adverse health effects.
TurcoSolv itself was eventually withdrawn from use because of concerns regarding its own health impacts.
I was advised by an advocate that some of the components of TurcoSolv may remain within the skin for many years and potentially affect the immune system.
At the time there appeared to be little public discussion of the issue and information was difficult to obtain.
Dermatitis and Health Concerns
Garry (Crewie) Thorburn – October 2003
In regard to a possible DVA claim, have you heard of any former Greenies from the 1960s and 1970s experiencing dermatitis or other health problems as a result of exposure to TurcoSolv?
As you may remember, TurcoSolv was a general electrical equipment cleaning fluid.
I understand it was eventually withdrawn from use in the RAN after concerns were raised regarding its safety.
However, I cannot recall the original source of that information.
Preserving Our History
The reports above form part of the historical record of the Pussers Greenies community and reflect concerns raised by former sailors regarding workplace practices, chemical exposures and long-term health outcomes.
While medical understanding and compensation arrangements continue to evolve, these reports provide valuable insight into the experiences of many former Greenies.
Need Assistance?
If you are concerned that a health condition may be related to your naval service, please speak with your local GP first.
Your GP can assess your symptoms, arrange appropriate tests, refer you to specialists, and help document medical evidence if you later decide to contact DVA or an advocate.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Website: www.dva.gov.au
DVA General Enquiries: 133 254
Regional callers: 1800 555 254
1800 VETERAN: 1800 838 372
Veterans’ Advocacy Support
Accredited advocates may assist with:
- DVA claims
- Statements of Principles
- Medical evidence requirements
- Reviews and appeals
Important Notice
This information is provided for historical and educational purposes only. It is not medical, legal or compensation advice.
Always seek advice from your GP, specialist, DVA, or an accredited advocate regarding your personal circumstances.