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HHE Search Results
1056 HHE reports were found based on your search terms. Reports are listed in order of year published with the most recently published reports listed first.
Year Published and Title
(2010) Skin and respiratory symptoms in peanut inspectors with peanut dust and endotoxin exposure, Shann Peanut Company, Ambrose, Georgia. (Click to open report) On November 30, 2007, the GDPH submitted a request for technical assistance to NIOSH to address concerns about health symptoms in FSIS peanut inspectors who worked in the peanut grading room at Shann Peanut Company (Shann) in Ambrose, Georgia. FSIS employees began reporting irritation of the eyes, nose, respiratory tract, and skin; nausea; diarrhea; vomiting; headache; fever; and flu-like symptoms in middle to late October 2007. Prior to our evaluation, FDA and USDA analyzed peanut samples for f... (Click to show more)On November 30, 2007, the GDPH submitted a request for technical assistance to NIOSH to address concerns about health symptoms in FSIS peanut inspectors who worked in the peanut grading room at Shann Peanut Company (Shann) in Ambrose, Georgia. FSIS employees began reporting irritation of the eyes, nose, respiratory tract, and skin; nausea; diarrhea; vomiting; headache; fever; and flu-like symptoms in middle to late October 2007. Prior to our evaluation, FDA and USDA analyzed peanut samples for fungi, mycotoxins, and pesticides. GDPH officials conducted an epidemiologic assessment. On December 5, 2007, we met with FSIS inspectors, GDPH officials, a USDA official, and the facility owner and walked around the peanut grading facility. We assessed ventilation in the grading room, examined the PPE provided to employees, and collected a sample of dust from the air conditioner filter in the grading room. We spoke with FSIS employees about their health concerns and reviewed their medical records. We later analyzed peanuts sent to us for endotoxin and VOCs. On October 22, 2008, we returned to Shann and conducted PBZ air sampling for endotoxin in the grading room. In 2007, we found that the grading room machinery did not vent peanut dust outdoors. FSIS inspectors reported wearing dust masks that were not NIOSH approved; they also reported skin, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and flu-like symptoms. Employee medical records reported respiratory abnormalities in seven employees. Endotoxin were found on the air conditioner filter and in peanut samples. During the 2008 site visit, endotoxin were found in the grading room air and outdoor air. The acute respiratory and flu-like symptoms reported by FSIS employees were consistent with endotoxin exposure. The acute gastrointestinal and skin symptoms reported were consistent with exposure to chemical toxins, possibly mycotoxins. The persistence of symptoms in some workers after being removed from exposure was unusual. Persistent respiratory symptoms could be a result of additional lung insult from cigarette smoking or co-existing disease, such as COPD or asthma. In addition, persistence of symptoms might be explained by employees inadvertently taking home organic dust on their clothing and shoes and in their cars, thus continuing their exposure. We recommend reducing dust in the peanut grading room by installing ductwork on machines to discharge dust outdoors. We recommend providing employee training on the hazards of organic dust and ways to prevent exposure, providing appropriate respiratory and skin protection to reduce exposure to irritants and allergens, and encouraging employees to report potential work-related symptoms. FSIS management also should review injury and illness logs and conduct additional endotoxin sampling in FSIS peanut grading rooms throughout the state to monitor trends in work-related illness and exposures.
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(2009) Employees' chemical exposures while blending and repackaging glass beads for road markings, Weissker Manufacturing, Palestine, Texas. (Click to open report) On October 16, 2007, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Weissker Manufacturing (Weissker) in Palestine, Texas. Employees were concerned about exposures to lead, arsenic, formaldehyde, and dust while handling reflective glass beads. Health problems listed on the request and attributed to the dust from the glass beads included glassy eyes, sore throat, body aches, and flu-like symptoms. Weissker imported the glass beads in Super Sack containers (2200-pound capacity fabric... (Click to show more)On October 16, 2007, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Weissker Manufacturing (Weissker) in Palestine, Texas. Employees were concerned about exposures to lead, arsenic, formaldehyde, and dust while handling reflective glass beads. Health problems listed on the request and attributed to the dust from the glass beads included glassy eyes, sore throat, body aches, and flu-like symptoms. Weissker imported the glass beads in Super Sack containers (2200-pound capacity fabric bags) from Russia and China and repackaged the beads for resale. Both the Chinese and Russian glass beads had a silane coating. Employees complained about a fish-like odor emitted from the Chinese beads when they were wet. The odor may have come from the amines in the glass beads' coating. Weissker is no longer purchasing beads from China due to employees' health concerns. At the time of this evaluation six employees at Weissker worked one 8-hour shift. During our site visit on January 22-24, 2008, we observed the blending and repackaging process, reviewed the MSDSs for the glass beads, and interviewed employees. We also collected PBZ air samples for respirable dust, crystalline silica, elements (including arsenic and lead), and formaldehyde and GA air samples for total dust, formaldehyde, and elements. We analyzed bulk samples of glass beads for elements, VOCs, and size. We took wipe samples from employees' hands and work surfaces and had them analyzed for elements. Our review of the OSHA 300 Logs of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses revealed that an employee was injured in June 2007, when his arm was trapped between a metal bin and a Super Sack while he was emptying it. All air sampling results were below applicable OELs. No VOCs were detected in the bulk samples of glass beads. Elements were either not detected or were detected at very low concentrations. Particle size analysis of the glass beads revealed that they were too large to be deposited in the respiratory tract or the lungs. We measured very low levels of elements on employees' hands, on work surfaces, and on the lunchroom table. We conducted confidential medical interviews with five employees; some reported eye and throat irritation. We recommend that employees wear safety glasses or goggles to prevent glass beads from getting in their eyes and that they wash their hands before eating or touching their face. We also recommend that employees not place their arms underneath the Super Sack containers when they are being emptied to prevent hand and arm injuries.
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(2009) Employees' exposures to welding fumes and powder paint dust during metal furniture manufacturing, Dehler Manufacturing, Inc., Chicago, Illinois. (Click to open report) On April 6, 2007, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Dehler Manufacturing, Inc., (Dehler) in Chicago, Illinois. Employees were concerned about exposure to welding fumes and dust from powder painting and grinding operations. During our initial site visit on June 28-29, 2007, we met with management and employee representatives; toured the facility; observed work processes, use of PPE, and existing engineering controls; and interviewed 10 employees. We collected bulk sampl... (Click to show more)On April 6, 2007, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Dehler Manufacturing, Inc., (Dehler) in Chicago, Illinois. Employees were concerned about exposure to welding fumes and dust from powder painting and grinding operations. During our initial site visit on June 28-29, 2007, we met with management and employee representatives; toured the facility; observed work processes, use of PPE, and existing engineering controls; and interviewed 10 employees. We collected bulk samples of powder paint for particle sizing and to check for silica and asbestos content. Two of the 10 employees we interviewed reported symptoms we determined were not related to exposures in the workplace. They described episodic transient shortness of breath that lasted a few minutes and also affected members of their families who were not Dehler employees. Their condition did not improve when they were away from work. Two other employees reported eye and throat irritation. The remaining six employees reported no symptoms. Although the bulk powder paint samples did not contain silica or asbestos, we decided a return survey was needed to evaluate exposures to welding fumes, powder paint, noise, and heat stress. During the follow-up evaluation on September 18-20, 2007, we collected PBZ air samples for carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide on welders, and for elements (metals) on welders and grinders. We also collected PBZ samples for carbon monoxide on two grinders. For the painters, we collected PBZ air samples for TGIC, respirable dust, and total dust. We measured the face velocity on door openings to the paint booth, the capture velocity on a welding fume extractor, and noise levels throughout the facility. We also evaluated heat stress in the paint room. We interviewed the nine painters who were available and provided them with self-recording PEF meters. We were interested in knowing if the painters' breathing was affected by TGIC in powder paint. These meters provide an indication of airway obstruction. Of the 38 PBZ samples for elements collected on MIG welders, seven exceeded the ACGIH TLV of 200 microg/m3 for manganese, and an additional eight samples were at least at half of the TLV. Concentrations of the remaining elements in the welding fumes were below applicable OELs. Of the 16 PBZ air samples for carbon monoxide collected on welders, four exceeded the NIOSH ceiling limit of 200 ppm. Despite painting for only 80 to 300 minutes, four of eight painters were exposed to TGIC above the ACGIH 8-hour TLV-TWA of 0.05 mg/m3. One painter's exposure to TGIC exceeded the protection factor of the filtering facepiece respirator he was wearing. Had employees applied paint containing TGIC for 8 hours or longer at the same application rate (as is commonly done for a larger work order), at least six of the eight painters would have been overexposed to TGIC. Two of 15 PBZ air samples for respirable dust collected on painters exceeded the OSHA 8-hour PEL-TWA of 5 mg/m3, and 7 of 13 PBZ air samples for total dust exceeded the OSHA 8-hour PEL-TWA of 15 mg/m3. Talc was not detected in the respirable dust air samples collected on painters. The WBGT in the paint room did not exceed NIOSH recommended heat stress exposure limits, but at times the dry bulb temperature in the paint room exceeded 100 degrees F. On the day of our evaluation, the outdoor temperature was 77 degrees F, so it is possible that on warmer days the NIOSH RELs may be exceeded because the production area is not air-conditioned. Noise levels exceeded 85 dBA during grinding, welding, and painting, and at most presses occasionally exceeded 90 dBA. Hearing protection was required in the press area, but some employees were observed not wearing it, or wearing ear plugs that were not properly inserted. Two of the nine painters interviewed had PEF readings with a variability of 20% or more, which may suggest asthma. One of the two painters reported having symptoms of shortness of breath, which predated employment at Dehler, and had reportedly not worsened since employment. Because these employees only had Sundays off during the period of the PEF recordings, we are unable to determine if the PEF rates would have improved while away from work. A single day away from work is not sufficient to observe such changes if present. We are therefore unable to make a determination on work-relatedness of this finding. Our evaluation did not identify any painter who had definitive work-related respiratory disease or symptoms. However, we recommended to the two painters with increased variability of their daily peak flow readings that they consult their physician for further evaluation to determine if their bronchial hyperresponsiveness was related to workplace exposures. We also recommend that management take steps to prevent employee sensitization to TGIC. We recommend using powder paints that do not contain TGIC and welding wire that does not contain manganese. The paint booth should be further enclosed to better contain the powder paint, and the painters should be provided with a higher level of respiratory protection until exposures can be reduced through engineering or administrative controls. Painters should avoid skin contact with powder paint that contains TGIC because it is also a skin sensitizer and can cause allergic contact dermatitis and asthma. Management should inform employees about the risks of working with TGIC. We recommend installing spot cooling fans and exhaust fans in the paint booth room to control heat stress, and exhaust fans in the welding area to remove welding fumes. We recommend that management conduct noise monitoring to determine employees' full-shift TWA noise exposures, and ensure employees wear hearing protection properly while in designated hazardous noise areas. We also recommend that an ergonomics consultant be hired to assess work tasks and provide recommendations for reducing the number of ergonomic injuries.
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(2009) Evaluacion de exposiciones de empleados a humo de soldadura y a polvo de pintura en polvo durante la fabricacion de muebles metalicos, Dehler Manufacturing, Inc., Chicago, Illinois. (Click to open report) The performance of field portable direct-reading organic vapor monitors (DROVMs) was evaluated under a variety of experimental conditions. Four of the DROVMs had photoionization detectors (ppbRAE, IAQRAE, MultiRAE, and Century Toxic Vapor Analyzer), one had a flame ionization detector (Century Toxic Vapor Analyzer), and one was a single-beam infrared spectrophotometer (SapphIRe). Four of each DROVM (two Century Toxic Vapor Analyzers and SapphIRes) were tested. The DROVMs were evaluated at three ... (Click to show more)The performance of field portable direct-reading organic vapor monitors (DROVMs) was evaluated under a variety of experimental conditions. Four of the DROVMs had photoionization detectors (ppbRAE, IAQRAE, MultiRAE, and Century Toxic Vapor Analyzer), one had a flame ionization detector (Century Toxic Vapor Analyzer), and one was a single-beam infrared spectrophotometer (SapphIRe). Four of each DROVM (two Century Toxic Vapor Analyzers and SapphIRes) were tested. The DROVMs were evaluated at three temperatures (4 degrees C, 21 degrees C, and 38 degrees C), three relative humidities (30%, 60%, and 90%), and two hexane concentrations (5 ppm and 100 ppm). These conditions were selected to provide a range within the operational parameters of all the instruments. At least four replicate trials were performed across the 18 experimental conditions (3 temperatures 3 relative humidities 2 concentrations). To evaluate performance, the 4-hr time-weighted average readings from the DROVMs in a given trial were compared with the average of two charcoal tube concentrations using pairwise comparison. The pairwise comparison criterion was +/-25% measurement agreement between each individual DROVM and the DROVMs as a group and the average charcoal tube concentration. The ppbRAE group performed the best with 40% of all readings meeting the comparison criterion followed by the SapphIRe group at 39%. Among individual DROVMs, the best performer was a SapphIRe, with 57% of its readings meeting the criterion. The data was further analyzed by temperature, humidity, and concentration. The results indicated the performance of some DROVMs may be affected by temperature, humidity, and/or concentration. The ppbRAE group performed best at 21 degrees C with the percentage of readings meeting the criterion increasing to 63%. At the 5 ppm concentration, 44% of the ppbRAE group readings met the criterion, while at 100 ppm, only 35% did. The results indicate that monitors can be used as survey tools. Based on the data, the inconsistent performance of these DROVMs may not allow them to be used for determining compliance with occupational exposure limits. El 6 de abril del 2007, NIOSH recibio una solicitud confidencial de empleados de Dehler Manufacturing, Inc., (Dehler) en Chicago Illinois, para una evaluacion de riesgos para la salud (HHE por sus siglas en ingles). Los empleados estaban preocupados por su exposicion al humo de soldadura, y al polvo de la pintura en polvo, y del esmerilado. Durante nuestra visita inicial del 28 al 29 de junio del 2007, nos reunimos con representantes de la gerencia y de los empleados; recorrimos la planta; observamos los procesos de trabajo, uso de equipo de proteccion individual (EPI), los controles tecnicos existentes; y entrevistamos a 10 empleados. Tomamos muestras a granel de la pintura en polvo para medir el tamano de las particulas y para saber si contenia silice o asbesto. Dos de los 10 empleados que entrevistamos reportaron sintomas los cuales nosotros determinamos no tenian relacion con las exposiciones en el lugar del trabajo. Los dos empleados describieron episodios transitorios de dificultad respiratoria que duraron algunos minutos y que tambien afectaron a miembros de sus familias que no eran empleados de Dehler. Su condicion no mejoraba cuando estaban lejos del trabajo. Otros dos empleados reportaron irritacion de los ojos y de la garganta. Los seis empleados restantes no reportaron ningun sintoma. Aunque las muestras a granel de la pintura en polvo no contenian silice o asbestos, decidimos que una segunda visita era necesaria para evaluar la exposicion al humo de soldadura, a la pintura en polvo, al ruido, y al estres calorifico. Durante la evaluacion de seguimiento del 18 al 20 de septiembre del 2007, tomamos muestras del aire en la zona de respiracion personal (PBZ por sus siglas en ingles) para monoxido de carbono y dioxido de nitrogeno en los soldadores, y para los elementos (metales) en los soldadores y los pulidores. Tambien tomamos muestras de PBZ para monoxido de carbono en dos pulidores. Para los pintores, tomamos muestras de PBZ para 1,3,5-triglicidil-S-triazintriona (TGIC por sus siglas en ingles), el polvo respirable, y el polvo total. Medimos el flujo de aire en las aperturas hacia la cabina de pintura, la velocidad de captacion en un extractor de humo de soldadura, y niveles de ruidos a traves de la fabrica. Tambien evaluamos el estres calorifico en el area de pintura. Entrevistamos a los nueve pintores disponibles y les dimos medidores de flujo espiratorio maximo (FEM). Estabamos interesados en saber si la respiracion de los pintores estaba siendo afectada por el TGIC en la pintura en polvo. Estas medidas proporcionan una indicacion de la obstruccion de las vias respiratorias. De las 38 muestras de PBZ para los elementos tomadas en los soldadores de soldadura por electrodo consumible protegido (MIG por sus siglas en ingles), siete excedieron el Valor Limite Umbral (TLV por sus siglas en ingles) de la Conferencia de los Higienistas Industriales Gubernamentales (ACGIH por sus siglas en ingles) de 200 microgramos por metro cubico de aire (ug/m3) para el manganeso, y unas ocho muestras adicionales estaban por lo menos a la mitad del TLV. Las concentraciones de los elementos restantes en los humos de soldadura estaban por debajo de los limites de exposición ocupacional aplicables (OEL por sus siglas en inglés.) De las 16 muestras de aire de PBZ para el monóxido de carbono tomadas de los soldadores, cuatro excedieron el valor techo de NIOSH de 200 partes por millón (PPM por sus siglas en inglés). A pesar de pintar solamente de 80 a 300 minutos, cuatro de ocho pintores fueron expuestos a TGIC sobre el Valor Limite Umbral-Promedio Ponderado en el Tiempo por 8 horas de ACGIH (8-hour TLV-TWA, por sus siglas en inglés) de 0.05 miligramos por metro cúbico de aire (mg/m3 por sus siglas en inglés). La exposición de un pintor a TGIC excedió el nivel de protección del respirador para partículas que él usaba. Si los empleados hubiesen aplicado pintura conteniendo TGIC por 8 horas o más a la misma taza de aplicación (lo cual sucede comúnmente para una orden de trabajo más grande), por lo menos seis de los ocho pintores hubiesen estado sobre-expuestos a TGIC. Dos de 15 muestras de aire de PBZ para el polvo respirable tomadas en pintores excedieron el nivel permisible OSHA PEL-TWA de ocho horas de 5 mg/m3, y 7 de 13 muestras de aire de PBZ para el polvo total excedieron el nivel permisible ponderado por 8 horas de la Administración para la Seguridad y Salud Ocupacional (OSHA 8-Tour PEL-TWA, por sus siglas en inglés) de 15 mg/m3. No se detecto talco en las muestras de aire del polvo respirable tomadas en los pintores. La Temperatura húmeda Temperatura de globo (WBGT por sus siglas en inglés) en el área de pintura no excedió los límites de exposición para estrés calorífico recomendados por NIOSH, pero en ocasiones la temperatura del termómetro de bulbo seco en el área de pintura excedió 100 degrees F. El día de nuestra evaluación, la temperatura al aire libre era 77 grados F, así que es posible que en días más calientes el Límite de Exposición Recomendado (REL por sus siglas en inglés) de NIOSH pueda ser excedido porque el área de producción no tiene aire acondicionado. Los niveles de ruido excedieron 85 decibeles ponderados en la escala A (dBA por sus siglas en inglés) durante los procesos de esmerilar, soldar, y pintar, y en la mayoría de las prensas ocasionalmente excedieron 90 dBA. La protección auditiva era requerida en el área de la prensa, pero se observo que algunos empleados no la usaban, o que usaban tapones del oído que no fueron insertados correctamente. Dos de los nueve pintores entrevistados mostraron resultados de FEM con una variabilidad de 20% o más, lo que puede sugerir asma. Uno de los dos pintores dijo tener síntomas de dificultad respiratoria antes de su empleo con Dehler, el cual no había empeorado. Ya que estos empleados t...
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(2009) Exposure to flour dust and sensitization among bakery employees, Sara Lee Bakery, Sacramento, California. (Click to open report) In May 2005, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at the Sara Lee Bakery in Sacramento, California. The request concerned rashes, respiratory symptoms, and problems with ventilation and indoor environmental quality. In an August 2005 work site visit we met with management and union representatives, toured the plant, and held confidential medical interviews with employees. We observed potential exposure to flour dust and BAA and received reports of employees with work-related... (Click to show more)In May 2005, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at the Sara Lee Bakery in Sacramento, California. The request concerned rashes, respiratory symptoms, and problems with ventilation and indoor environmental quality. In an August 2005 work site visit we met with management and union representatives, toured the plant, and held confidential medical interviews with employees. We observed potential exposure to flour dust and BAA and received reports of employees with work-related hand dermatitis, cough, eye irritation, and aggravation of pre-existing asthma. We also learned of at least one employee who was diagnosed with baker's asthma. We returned to the bakery in March 2006. All bakery employees were asked to participate in an evaluation designed to compare sensitization and symptom prevalences between groups categorized as having higher and lower potential exposure to BAA and to more accurately characterize exposure in the different bakery departments. PBZ and GA air monitoring was performed to measure inhalable flour dust and total dust. The inhalable flour dust samples were further analyzed for alpha-amylase and wheat. The study included a questionnaire, and blood tests for total IgE; IgE specific to flour dust, wheat, and alpha-amylase; and for a variety of common aeroallergens. Of 186 bakery employees present during our site visit, 161 (87%) completed the questionnaire. Of these, 96 allowed their blood to be drawn. We observed the process in the bakery and also used information in the scientific literature to assign "lower-exposure" and "higher-exposure" categories to participants. Participants were assigned to either a lower-exposure group or a higher-exposure group based upon their job title at the time of the survey. We collected 83 PBZ and 19 GA air measurements for inhalable flour dust in the bread and bun production, distribution, engineering, and sanitation departments; and the office and plant management areas. The inhalable flour dust concentrations for PBZ and GA samples for certain job titles in the lower-exposure group had a GM of 0.235 mg/m3, a median of 0.245 mg/m3, with a range between ND (less than 0.12 mg/m3, based on an average sample volume) and 1.4 mg/m3. Of the 23 PBZ measurements for employees in this group, 8 reached or exceeded the CalOSHA PEL and ACGIH TLV of 0.5 mg/m3 TWA for inhalable flour dust. The inhalable flour dust concentrations for PBZ and GA samples in the higher-exposure group had a GM of 3.01 mg/m3, a median of 2.75 mg/m3, with a range between trace (between 0.12 and 0.42 mg/m3, based on an average sample volume) and 65 mg/m3. Of the 60 PBZ measurements for employees in this group, 56 reached or exceeded the CalOSHA PEL and ACGIH TLV for inhalable flour dust. Employees in the higher-exposure group had a significantly higher prevalence of work-related wheezing than those in the lower-exposure group (14.8% vs. 1.1%). They also had significantly higher prevalences of work-related runny nose, stuffy nose, and frequent sneezing. The higher-exposure group had a significantly higher prevalence of rash on their face, neck, hands, or arms in the month prior to the study. The prevalences of IgE specific to wheat, inhalable flour dust, and alpha-amylase were higher in the higher-exposure group at both the >/= 0.10 kU/L and the >/= 0.35 kU/L cutoffs, but the differences were not statistically significant. The prevalence of IgE specific to wheat was significantly higher among employees who reported either a current or past job in the higher-exposure group or in production at another bakery at both the >/= 0.10 kU/L and the >/= 0.35 kU/L cutoffs, and to flour dust and alpha-amylase at the >/= 0.10 kU/L cutoff, compared to the lower-exposure group. The prevalences of work-related wheezing were 3.5 times higher in employees sensitized to wheat than those who were not sensitized. This difference was statistically significant at the >/= 0.10 kU/L cutoff for IgE but was not significant at the >/= 0.35 kU/L cutoff. The prevalences of work-related runny nose was significantly higher among those sensitized to wheat at the >/= 0.35 kU/L cutoff, but not at the >/= 0.10 kU/L cutoff. We found no statistically significant differences in work-related symptom prevalences between those above and below the cutoffs for sensitization to alpha-amylase. Work-related runny nose was significantly more prevalent among those sensitized to flour than those who were not sensitized at the >/= 0.35 kU/L cutoff, but was not significant at the >/= 0.10 kU/L cutoff. Atopics (defined by a positive AlaTOP) were significantly more likely to be sensitized to wheat and flour dust at both the >/= 0.10 kU/L cutoff and >/= 0.35 kU/L cutoff, and to alpha-amylase at the >/= 0.10 kU/L cutoff. In conclusion, a health hazard exists at the Sara Lee Bakery in Sacramento, California, from exposure to flour dust and other BAA. Recommendations include implementing a variety of engineering and work practice controls, as well as the use of respiratory protection until these controls are implemented. Management should provide a medical surveillance program for employees exposed to BAA.
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(2009) Exposure to hazardous metals during electronics recycling at four UNICOR facilities, UNICOR, Elkton, Ohio; Texarkana, Texas; Atwater, California; and Marianna, Florida. (Click to open report) Introduction: On November 27, 2007, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for technical assistance from the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ), Office of the Inspector General (OIG), in their health and safety investigation of the Federal Prison Industries, Inc. (UNICOR) electronics recycling program at Bureau of Prisons (BOP) institutions in Elkton, Ohio; Texarkana, Texas; and Atwater, California. We were asked to assess the current medica... (Click to show more)Introduction: On November 27, 2007, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for technical assistance from the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ), Office of the Inspector General (OIG), in their health and safety investigation of the Federal Prison Industries, Inc. (UNICOR) electronics recycling program at Bureau of Prisons (BOP) institutions in Elkton, Ohio; Texarkana, Texas; and Atwater, California. We were asked to assess the current medical surveillance program for inmates and staff exposed to lead and cadmium during electronics recycling, and to make recommendations for future surveillance. In addition, we were asked to assess past exposures to lead and cadmium, and to investigate the potential for "take-home" exposure. Later we were asked to perform a similar evaluation for the BOP institution in Marianna, Florida. We reviewed medical surveillance records, individual medical records, and industrial hygiene sampling records from each institution. We visited each institution and toured the current and/or former recycling and glass breaking facilities and met with staff and inmates to hear their concerns and present our findings. We also performed industrial hygiene sampling at Elkton and Texarkana. At the time of our site visits, glass breaking was being performed at Elkton and Texarkana, but not at Marianna or Atwater. Letters containing detailed information about our assessment, findings, and recommendations for each facility were sent to the OIG and the warden and union at each facility after each of these evaluations. In August 2009, the OIG forwarded additional data for inmates at Elkton. This report contains a summary of our findings at each institution, a review of the additional biological monitoring for Elkton, and overall conclusions and recommendations. For a copy of the individual letters for each BOP institution, please call 513-841-4382. Facility Evaluations: Federal Correctional Institution Elkton: Electronics recycling at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Elkton appears to have taken place from 1997 until May 2003 without adequate engineering controls, respiratory protection, medical surveillance, or industrial hygiene monitoring. Because of the lack of biological monitoring and industrial hygiene data, we cannot determine the extent of exposure to lead and cadmium that occurred during that time frame, but descriptions of work tasks from staff and inmates indicate that exposures were not well controlled, causing the potential for exposure above occupational exposure limits (OELs) for lead and cadmium. Based upon available sampling results, we determined that the current glass breaking operation (GBO) controls exposure to lead and cadmium to far below occupational exposure limits. The GBO can be further enhanced to limit exposure to those performing glass breaking as well as limiting the migration of lead and cadmium from the GBO into other areas. Results of biological monitoring of staff and inmates since 2003 were unremarkable. While some take-home contamination was documented in inmate cubicles, surface wipe sampling and biological monitoring suggest that take-home contamination did not pose a health threat. In late August 2009, the USDOJ provided biological monitoring data for 10 inmates, 8 of whom were on the roster of inmates performing glass breaking. The results of this monitoring were unremarkable. One inmate glass breaker was tested in early April 2002, prior to the installation of the glass breaking booth in 2003. This inmate is the only individual for whom we have results prior to that time. His blood lead level (BLL) was 5 micrograms per deciliter (microg/dL), and his blood cadmium level (CdB) was 0.7 micrograms per liter. We cannot determine the extent of exposure to lead that occurred in the chip recovery process because of the lack of data. Descriptions of work tasks from staff and a BLL of 5 microg/dL in an inmate 4 months after the process ended indicate that exposure to lead during this process did occur. We found no evidence that actions were taken to prevent exposure to lead at the outset in the chip recovery process and that no medical surveillance was performed until after the process ended. Medical surveillance has not complied with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. No medical exams (including physical examinations) were done on inmates, staff received inconsistent examinations and biological monitoring by their personal physicians, biological monitoring for lead was not done at standard intervals, and results were not communicated to the inmates. Inappropriate biological monitoring tests such as urine lead and arsenic testing have been done. Records of medical surveillance were not maintained by the employer for the appropriate length of time. After careful review of existing records and current operations, we conclude that the only persons with current potential for exposure to either lead or cadmium over the OSHA action level are the inmates who perform glass breaking or monthly filter change-out. We believe that medical surveillance can be discontinued for all other inmates and staff. Some former inmates and/or staff may require surveillance under the OSHA Cadmium Standard. Federal Correctional Institution Texarkana: Electronics recycling at FCI Texarkana appears to have been performed from late 2001 until May 2004 without appropriate engineering controls, respiratory protection, medical surveillance, or industrial hygiene monitoring. Because of the sparse biological monitoring and industrial hygiene data, we cannot determine the extent of exposure to lead and cadmium that occurred during that time. Descriptions of work tasks from staff and inmates indicate that exposures were not well controlled, causing a potential for exposure above OELs for lead and cadmium. Based on information provided to us and our industrial hygiene sampling, we believe that the current GBO is a significant improvement with respect to controlling worker exposures to cadmium and lead. Some lead- and cadmium-containing dust is still being carried out of the glass breaking booth. Although this does not represent a serious health hazard, it shows a need to maintain good housekeeping throughout the glass breaking area. Exposures since May 2004 are sufficiently low that the OSHA-mandated medical surveillance has not been required since that time. In addition, the results of medical surveillance conducted since 2003 on inmates and staff were generally unremarkable. It is not possible to quantify past exposures to determine whether they triggered the OSHA lead and/or cadmium standard prior to that time. Inmates are advised of the results of their monitoring and see the physician's assistant; however, records of medical surveillance are not maintained by the employer for the appropriate length of time. Some staff have refused to participate in medical surveillance paid by UNICOR but conducted by their personal physicians. After careful review of existing records and current operations, we conclude that medical surveillance can be discontinued for inmates and staff who work in electronics recycling and GBO. UNICOR may choose to continue to perform the limited biological monitoring currently in place as an additional safeguard against excessive exposure and to provide reassurance to inmates and staff. United States Penitentiary Atwater: Inmates were exposed to cadmium and lead above OELs during glass breaking from 2002-2003. It appears that inmates worked without adequate respiratory protection from April 2002 until July 2002. Exposures seem to have been better controlled with relocation of the GBO to the spray booth; however, one sample taken after the relocation demonstrated significant airborne cadmium exposure. Results of medical surveillance of inmates and staff were unremarkable. The medical surveillance program was not in compliance with the...
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(2009) Exposures in sculpture studios at a college art department, Brooklyn College, Brooklyn, New York. (Click to open report) NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Brooklyn College in Brooklyn, New York. The request was to investigate health and safety concerns in the sculpture studios, including the ceramic, woodworking, and metalworking studios. Employees were concerned that degenerative nerve damage, lung cancer, sinus problems, allergies, and headaches were possibly related to work exposures. On October 22-24, 2007, NIOSH investigators conducted an initial evaluation that included an opening ... (Click to show more)NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Brooklyn College in Brooklyn, New York. The request was to investigate health and safety concerns in the sculpture studios, including the ceramic, woodworking, and metalworking studios. Employees were concerned that degenerative nerve damage, lung cancer, sinus problems, allergies, and headaches were possibly related to work exposures. On October 22-24, 2007, NIOSH investigators conducted an initial evaluation that included an opening conference, a tour of the three sculpture studios, observations of work activities, and a review of relevant health and safety documents. We evaluated the ventilation in the studios, collected area and PBZ air samples for VOCs in the woodworking studio, and interviewed employees about their health. On October 24, we held a closing conference to provide preliminary recommendations. On March 28, 2008, we returned to collect area and PBZ welding fume air samples during a metalworking class. We observed inadequate electrical grounding, machine guarding, and spacing around power tools and machines; and poor housekeeping practices. Eating and drinking were allowed in the studios during classes, eye protection was not always used, and respirators were used improperly. Many of the existing health and safety rules and guidelines of the studios were not being enforced. The ventilation system did not mechanically provide supply air to the sculpture studios. PBZ air samples collected for VOCs showed that xylene (0.23 ppm) and toluene (0.04 ppm) were the only compounds measured at quantifiable levels, and their concentrations were well below the NIOSH REL (100 ppm for both xylene and toluene), the OSHA PEL (xylene: 100 ppm; toluene: 200 ppm), and the ACGIH TLV (xylene: 100 ppm; toluene: 20 ppm). All other VOCs were found at trace levels or were not detected. Of the 31 airborne metals and minerals analyzed from welding fumes, most were either not detected or were present at trace concentrations. Six elements were measured in quantifiable concentrations in at least three locations. Zinc was measured in the highest concentration on a PBZ sample of 150 microg/m3. This concentration was well below the NIOSH REL (5000 microg/m3) and the ACGIH TLV (2000 microg/m3) for zinc. All interviewed employees reported concerns about safety issues in the studios. Employees reported past exposures including cadmium, lead, and asbestos exposure in the metalworking studio in the 1980s and unventilated kiln exhaust in the ceramics studio 10 to 12 years ago. Employees reported current use of glues, including methylene chloride, in the woodworking studio. Most studio employees reported intermittent nose and throat irritation, and one reported intermittent headaches at work. Employees also reported concerns about dust exposure, inadequate ventilation, and high noise levels, particularly in the woodworking and metalworking studios. Some employees were also concerned about the risk of developing lung cancer and nervous system disorders from past and current work exposures and reported previous cases in retired faculty. Based on our findings, we conclude that employee reports of nose and throat irritation during work are consistent with particulate and/or irritant exposures. Although the VOCs and solvent levels we measured were below relevant OELs, some employees may still experience symptoms below the OELs. We determined that the neurological disorders and lung cancer in retired studio employees could not be properly assessed due to lack of historical records of exposure, inability to recreate past exposures, and small numbers of cases, making analysis not meaningful. Management should address the sculpture studios' safety issues and improve the ventilation system. The ventilation system should supply adequate outdoor air and provide sufficient make-up air when the hoods and kilns are in use. Although welding fume concentrations were below relevant OELs for specific constituents, NIOSH considers welding fumes a potential human carcinogen and recommends reducing exposures to the lowest feasible level. Management can reduce welding fume exposures by installing adjustable LEV that removes contaminants from the point of generation. Also, ventilation fans and dust collectors that were previously installed to help collect and reduce airborne contaminants should be used when welding or performing dust-generating tasks. We also recommend that management enforce safety rules and improve housekeeping practices.
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(2009) Findings from industrial hygiene air sampling, ventilation assessment, and a medical survey at a facility that manufactures flavorings, modified dairy products, and bacterial additives, Chr. Hansen, Inc., New Berlin, Wisconsin. (Click to open report) Background: Workers at Chr. Hansen, Inc., in New Berlin, Wisconsin, requested that NIOSH perform a health hazard evaluation to investigate the risk of respiratory and eye problems from exposures to diacetyl, butter flavorings, cheese flavorings, enzymes, colors, bacterial cultures, and cleaning agents. The plant has separate rooms for the production of the following products and product types: 1. Starter distillate, a liquid which contains the flavoring chemical diacetyl, is produced in the star... (Click to show more)Background: Workers at Chr. Hansen, Inc., in New Berlin, Wisconsin, requested that NIOSH perform a health hazard evaluation to investigate the risk of respiratory and eye problems from exposures to diacetyl, butter flavorings, cheese flavorings, enzymes, colors, bacterial cultures, and cleaning agents. The plant has separate rooms for the production of the following products and product types: 1. Starter distillate, a liquid which contains the flavoring chemical diacetyl, is produced in the starter distillate room. 2. CHY-MAXR, a standardized solution of the enzyme chymosin (produced at another plant) is diluted and packaged in the enzymes room; starter distillate is also diluted and packaged in this room. 3. Cheese, dairy, and other flavors and cheese products are produced in the flavors room. 4. Powdered flavors and colors are produced through a spray drying process in the spray dry room. 5. Bacterial blends for use in foods intended for human consumption are produced in the human health room. (Flavorings are not used or produced in this room.) 6. Bacterial blends for use as feed supplements for farm animals are produced in the animal health rooms. (Flavorings are not used or produced in this room.) Exposures related to production of flavorings are of particular concern to NIOSH. Previous NIOSH investigations have identified evidence of a severe disease of the small airways in the lung (bronchiolitis obliterans) among workers exposed to butter flavoring chemicals in microwave popcorn plants and among production workers in flavoring manufacturing plants. Exposures to enzymes and other organic dust are also of concern due to their potential to cause lung disease in some individuals. Workplace exposures to enzymes can cause asthma and other allergic problems. Repeated exposure to organic dusts (materials from living things such as plants, animals, bacteria, or fungi) can cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis, another serious lung disease. Assessment: NIOSH staff visited the plant initially in September 2007 to meet with management and workers, conduct an initial walkthrough of the plant, learn about production processes, and do preliminary air sampling. NIOSH staff returned to the plant in December 2007 to do a detailed ventilation assessment and industrial hygiene air sampling, and to conduct a medical survey which included a questionnaire and lung function testing with spirometry. All current workers in production areas, the QC laboratory, the warehouse, and maintenance were invited to participate in the medical survey. For analyses of the medical survey results by type of potential exposure in the plant, workers were classified as follows: 1. Flavoring workers: Current workers with potential exposure to diacetyl and other flavoring-related chemicals in the starter distillate, enzymes, flavors, or spray dry rooms, the QC laboratory, or in maintenance work. 2. Bacterial products workers: Current workers with potential exposure to bacteria and other organic dusts in the animal health or human health rooms. 3. Warehouse workers. Results: Air sampling showed diacetyl air concentrations in the spray dry, starter distillate, and flavors rooms and in the quality control laboratory that were similar to those measured at some flavoring plants and microwave popcorn plants where some workers have developed severe lung disease likely caused by exposure to diacetyl and possibly other flavoring chemicals. This included both average air concentrations over the work shift and peak air concentrations during specific tasks. The atmospheric pressure in the spray dry and flavors rooms was neutral to positive relative to the warehouse; as a result, movement of air contaminants from those rooms into the warehouse is possible. The Torit local exhaust ventilation unit used during packaging of finished product in the spray dry room allowed some of the captured dust to escape back into the room air. One worker in the flavoring worker group had mild fixed airways obstruction on spirometry testing. Although this finding might be related to flavoring chemical exposures, additional medical tests are required to establish if a particular lung disease is present and the likely cause; information from additional medical evaluation was not available to NIOSH investigators. Among nine current and former workers in flavoring production areas who reported chest symptoms from work exposures, three workers reported chest symptoms from exposure to enzymes; three workers reported chest symptoms from exposure to acids; one worker reported chest symptoms from exposure to diacetyl; and one worker reported chest symptoms from exposure to encapsulated starter distillate. One worker reported eye burning from diacetyl and starter distillate. Air sampling in the animal health large and intermediate packaging rooms showed intermittent peak exposures to dust during ingredient mixing and product packaging activities. For some processes, local exhaust ventilation in these rooms did not adequately control dust exposures. Of ten workers in the animal and human health rooms who participated in the medical survey, five reported post-hire skin problems, four reported chest symptoms from exposures, and three reported work-related eye and nasal symptoms. Two of the four with chest symptoms reported that these occurred with exposure to Biomax and other powders. Spirometry tests in two animal health workers showed restriction, a decreased ability to fully expand the lungs. One of the two workers with restriction also reported weekly episodes of unusual tiredness and fatigue and monthly episodes of fever, chills, or night sweats. These symptoms in an individual with restriction on spirometry can be due to hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a lung disease which occurs in a small percentage of individuals exposed to organic dusts. Additional medical tests are necessary for a physician to establish if an individual has this disease. Conclusions and Recommendations: The levels of diacetyl measured in flavoring production areas at the Chr. Hansen plant may be high enough to put workers at risk of developing severe lung disease. Because flavoring-related lung disease can occur after only several months of exposure and can rapidly progress to severe irreversible disease, uncontrolled exposures should be minimized. Workers in the animal and human health rooms may also be at risk for respiratory symptoms and disease from exposure to organic dust. The Recommendations section of this report contains detailed guidance on what Chr. Hansen mangers should do to decrease exposures in all production rooms, the quality control laboratory, and the warehouse to minimize the potential for workers to develop respiratory and other health effects. The following approaches for prevention are addressed: ventilation improvements, administrative and work practice changes, use of respirators and other personal protective equipment, worker education, and medical monitoring with regularly scheduled spirometry tests.
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(2009) Health concerns at a printed circuit board manufacturing plant, Sanmina-SCI® Corporation, Huntsville, Alabama. (Click to open report) NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Sanmina-SCI Corporation (Sanmina-SCI) located in Huntsville, Alabama. Employees were concerned about exposure to solder paste and fumes during the fabrication, assembly, and testing of printed circuit boards, and noise. Other exposure concerns included copy machine toner, asbestos, mold, and dust. Health effects mentioned in the HHE request included cough, burning eyes, nosebleeds, loss of voice, headache, sinus infection, bronchitis, ... (Click to show more)NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Sanmina-SCI Corporation (Sanmina-SCI) located in Huntsville, Alabama. Employees were concerned about exposure to solder paste and fumes during the fabrication, assembly, and testing of printed circuit boards, and noise. Other exposure concerns included copy machine toner, asbestos, mold, and dust. Health effects mentioned in the HHE request included cough, burning eyes, nosebleeds, loss of voice, headache, sinus infection, bronchitis, and respiratory problems. On July 9-10, 2007, we conducted our first site visit. We toured the facility to observe work processes and practices, conducted confidential medical interviews with 40 employees, and collected GA air samples for VOCs and surface wipe samples for lead and tin. We reviewed air sampling records, injury and illness records, the respiratory protection program, and MSDSs. We also reviewed the PPE used for the solder dross cleaning operation and the maintenance schedule for the ARUs. We conducted a second site visit on December 12-13, 2007. We collected air samples for lead and specific VOCs. We conducted noise dosimetry at the AI stations, evaluated the room acoustics near ARUs, evaluated the effectiveness of local exhaust hoods for the wave solder and surface mount machines, and collected hand wipe samples to assess lead contamination on skin. We found that a wave solder operator (cleaning wave solder machines) was exposed to an airborne lead concentration of 49 microg/m3, which exceeded the OSHA AL (30 microg/m3) and was close to the OSHA PEL (50 microg/m3). However, during normal wave solder activities, wave solder operators had lead exposures well below the OSHA AL. We found lead on work surfaces and on hands of employees despite hand washing. We also sampled larger surface areas of the break room tables to ensure they were clean but found detectable levels of lead. Air sampling results for specific VOCs indicated that employee exposures were well below all applicable OELs. Full-shift noise exposures for the AI operators in the MS and DAS were well below the NIOSH REL, and the room acoustics were appropriate for the work environment. A consultant's IEQ assessment report from 2007 identified mold in several ARUs, prompting the company to address employee concerns about odors and mold contamination. Our review of air sampling data collected by the company in March 2007 indicated that the airborne carbon black concentrations resulting from Xerox(TM) toner cartridge cleaning were below OELs. We did not evaluate asbestos exposure, another concern listed in the original HHE request, because management informed us that asbestos-containing material was identified and being managed-in-place. Some of the employees we interviewed were concerned about thermal comfort and exposure to dust and solvents. Most interviewed employees did not report work-related symptoms. Furthermore, the upper respiratory symptoms reported by some employees are common in the general population. We recommend following all requirements of the OSHA lead standard (29 CFR 1910.1025). We recommend using engineering controls such as portable exhaust hoods when removing solder dross and cleaning wave solder machines. General housekeeping practices should be improved to keep break rooms and work surfaces clean. We also recommend cleaning and maintaining the ARUs to ensure mold growth does not occur in the future. Additionally, we recommend revising the written respiratory protection program to address inconsistencies between the written program and current employee respirator use.
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(2009) Report on an investigation of asthma and respiratory symptoms among workers at a soy processing plant, The Solae Company, Memphis, Tennessee. (Click to open report) On December 12, 2006, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) request from workers at the Solae Company's plant in Memphis, Tennessee. The requesters described respiratory symptoms and diagnoses, including sinus congestion and asthma, which they attributed to the workplace. They noted exposure to soy materials, lime (calcium oxide (CaO)), microbial contaminants such as mold, and insects. NIOSH investigators conducte... (Click to show more)On December 12, 2006, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) request from workers at the Solae Company's plant in Memphis, Tennessee. The requesters described respiratory symptoms and diagnoses, including sinus congestion and asthma, which they attributed to the workplace. They noted exposure to soy materials, lime (calcium oxide (CaO)), microbial contaminants such as mold, and insects. NIOSH investigators conducted telephone interviews with workers, a union representative, treating physicians, and company management and safety officials. On March 6, 2007, NIOSH investigators visited the plant to observe the process, measure concentrations of airborne dust, collect bulk samples of soy materials, and interview workers about their symptoms and exposures. They later conducted an industrial hygiene survey (July 9-13 and July 30-August 3, 2007). NIOSH investigators collected personal and area air samples from different plant areas, sub-areas, and jobs during the survey. They collected: personal (breathing-zone) air samples for inhalable dust and inhalable soy antigen; personal (breathing-zone) and area air measurements for airborne dust of respirable and thoracic size fractions using a real-time sampler; and area air samples for inhalable dust, inhalable soy antigen, total dust, total endotoxin, selected metals, and particle size distributions. They also collected bulk samples of soy materials from different sub-areas of the plant. From July 23-August 2, 2007, NIOSH investigators also conducted a medical survey of current workers at the plant; it consisted of an interviewer-administered questionnaire; lung function testing, including spirometry, bronchodilator, and methacholine challenge testing; and skin and blood allergy testing. Inhalable dust exposures were highest for the autopack operator, unloading switch operator, and sanitation job categories. Some of the samples from these job categories, as well as from starch dumping, exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) for total dust as particulate not otherwise regulated (PNOR) and the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) threshold limit values (TLV) for inhalable dust. The task of starch dumping, which produced the highest dust concentrations measured (21.7 mg/m3), was typically done by workers from several different job categories outside their normal shift work, using respiratory protection. Detectable soy antigen air concentrations were measured in all plant areas and sub-areas; the highest geometric mean inhalable soy antigen area concentration was in the flake processing room (308,000 ng/m3). Job categories with the highest geometric mean soy antigen concentration as measured by personal samples included the unloading switch operator (27,540 ng/m3), curd operator (25,960 ng/m3), and unloading lead (14,360 ng/m3). Currently, there are no occupational exposure standards or guidelines specifically for soybean dusts, though the more general PNOR standard does apply to soybean dusts. The highest endotoxin concentration, 217 EU/m3, was measured in the flake processing room; all other endotoxin concentrations were below 50 EU/m3. Calcium was detected in 5 of 67 total dust air samples; if the calcium in these samples was all present as lime (CaO), the highest corresponding lime concentration in air would have been approximately 0.52 mg/m3, a level well below the existing OSHA standard for lime dust. Of the 281 workers currently employed at the plant by the Solae Company, 147(52%) consented to participate in the medical survey and completed the questionnaire. Participation rates varied by worker classification, ranging from 66 of 94 (70%) production workers to 42 of 114 (37%) non-production workers. NIOSH staff conducted lung function testing for 140 of these workers, skin allergy testing for 132, and blood allergy testing for 135. Participating workers at the Solae plant in Memphis had higher than expected prevalences of physician-diagnosed asthma, sinusitis, and wheeze (a symptom of asthma) compared to the U.S. adult population. The prevalences of current and ever physician-diagnosed asthma for participating males were higher than expected based on a survey of the state of Tennessee, but these differences did not reach statistical significance. Among participants with adult-onset, physician-diagnosed asthma, most were diagnosed after hire at Solae. The incidence rate was five times greater after hire than before hire, consistent with a temporal relationship of occupational exposures preceding asthma diagnosis. Compared to non-production workers, production workers were more likely to report asthma-like symptoms that improve away from work. Work-related asthma-like symptoms were also associated with peak dust concentrations. Compared to workers exposed to lower peak concentrations, participants exposed to higher peak concentrations of dust were more likely to report work-related asthma-like symptoms. Additionally, workers who reported seeing or smelling mold in the workplace were more likely to report work-related sinusitis, nasal allergies, and rash compared to workers not reporting this exposure. Fourteen participants (10%) had airways obstruction on spirometry (six borderline and eight mild or worse severity). Eleven (8%) had spirometry results indicating a restrictive pattern. One had both airways obstruction and restriction. Two had a clinically significant response to bronchodilator and 12, including eight without airways obstruction on spirometry, had evidence of bronchial hyperresponsiveness on methacholine challenge testing. The prevalence of positive immunoglobulin E (IgE) to soy among Solae workers was five times greater than the prevalence among a group of comparison workers who were not occupationally exposed to soy, suggesting that immune recognition of soy among Solae workers resulted from occupational exposures. All asthma outcomes were significantly associated with immune response to soy, as measured by soy-specific IgE levels in the blood but not as measured by the skin prick test for soybean allergy. Concentrations of soy antigen and dust exposure were process-related. Compared to workers exposed to lower peak concentrations, those exposed to higher peak dust concentrations (measured by real-time sampling) were more likely to have spirometry indicating airways obstruction and to report work-related asthma-like symptoms. In addition, level of immunoglobulin G (IgG) to soy was associated with inhalable soy antigen level and work classification. Time-weighted-average inhalable soy antigen and dust concentrations were not associated with asthma outcomes in analyses involving all participants.
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