Abstract
In response to a confidential employee request and a management request, an investigation was conducted into possible isocyanate and polyamide imide resin exposures occurring during brazing and welding operations at the Square D Company (SIC-3677), Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The company manufactured dry type industrial electrical transformers and circuit breaker systems. There were about 201 workers in the manufacturing area spread over three shifts. Personal breathing zone samples indicated no detectable toluene-diisocyanate (584849) (TDI). From January 1992 through December 1994 there were six OSHA Form 200 entries involving respiratory problems, including two described as asthma attacks, two for smoke inhalation, and one recorded as a respiratory problem. Of the 201 workers, 138 returned a completed questionnaire; 20 (14%) reported experiencing three or more respiratory symptoms including shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and wheezing in the past year. Dermatologic symptoms were reported by 21 (15%) of the workers. Among the 15 symptomatic employees, the most prevalent symptoms included upper respiratory irritation and skin problems such as rashes, hives, and eczema. The authors conclude that no evidence was found of a current health hazard from brazing related TDI exposures. Workers experienced respiratory symptoms which may be associated with the brazing and winding operations.