Introduction: Nitroaromatic compounds have been used in multiple applications and are the main constituent of explosives in ammunition industry. Aim of work: To evaluate health hazards among workers exposed to nitro aromatic compounds in
the ammunition industry, and the possible role of oxidative stress in its mechanism of action. Materials and methods: The study was conducted on 40 workers as an exposed group comprising all workers engaged in ammunition factory in Helwan area, South of Cairo. The study also involved a control group composed of 40 workers never occupationally exposed to nitroaromatic compounds. All participants were subjected to a detailed specially prepared occupational and medical history questionnaire with full clinical examination, slit lamp examination and ECG scanning. Laboratory investigations were done and included: liver and kidney functions (ALT, AST, Bilirubin, blood urea, Serum Creatinine) complete blood picture, serum 8 hydroxyguanosine level and blood lead level. Results: Clinical examination revealed higher frequency of anorexia, nausea and vomiting, metallic taste, flushing, work accidents, cataract, diminution of vision, contact dermatitis, skin discoloration, bronchial hypersensitivity, reproductive troubles, cardiac ischemia, headache and hypertension among exposed workers compared to control group. Among carried investigations exposed workers showed elevation in mean blood urea while decrease in the mean level of ALT and AST compared to the control group. Mean serum 8 hydroxyguanosine level showed a highly significant statistical elevation in ammunition workers (706.72±355.84 U/
ml) compared to their referent control group considerable adverse health effects including cardiac, respiratory, ocular, dermatological and reproductive effects. The  highly significant elevation of the mean level of serum 8 OHG in the exposed workers compared to the control group identifies that oxidative stress is a possible mechanism for adverse effects in ammunition workers. Conclusion and recommendations: Ocular, dermal, respiratory, haematological, reproductive and cardiovascular clinical manifestations are to be properly assessed in pre-employment and periodic medical examination. Risk evaluation and management of explosive hazards is very important in ammunition industry. The possible utility of 8 hydroxyguanosine serum level as a marker of DNA oxidative damage may be considered. Workers supplementation withantioxidant medication is highly recommended.