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HHE Search Results
1058 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
(2008) Radiation exposure to TSA baggage screeners, Transportation Security Administration, Washington, DC. (Click to open report) Between November 2002 and March 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received three health hazard evaluation (HHE) requests from Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees at the Cincinnati, Honolulu, and Baltimore airports. The employees expressed concerns about a variety of potential exposures including diesel exhaust, dirt, dust, noise, and hazardous items found in baggage. In addition, a concern common to all three requests was exposure to x-ray... (Click to show more)Between November 2002 and March 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received three health hazard evaluation (HHE) requests from Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees at the Cincinnati, Honolulu, and Baltimore airports. The employees expressed concerns about a variety of potential exposures including diesel exhaust, dirt, dust, noise, and hazardous items found in baggage. In addition, a concern common to all three requests was exposure to x-rays from carry-on baggage and checked baggage screening machines. On March 26, 2003, TSA management submitted a separate request for NIOSH "to perform an independent study to determine the levels of radiation emissions from the various TSA screening equipment, and whether routine use of dosimetry is warranted." In May 2003, the following 12 airports were selected for study: Logan International (BOS); Baltimore-Washington International (BWI); Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International (CVG); Los Angeles International (LAX); T.F. Green Municipal (PVD); Palm Beach International (PBI); Chicago O'Hare International (ORD); Harrisburg International (MDT); Honolulu International (HNL); McCarren International (LAS); Miami International (MIA); and Philadelphia International (PHL). The objectives of the NIOSH HHE were as follows: (1) assess the work practices, procedures, and training provided to TSA baggage screeners who operated machines that generate x-rays and (2) characterize TSA baggage screeners' radiation exposures and determine if routine monitoring with radiation dosimeters is warranted. Basic characterizations of work practices, spot measurements for radiation, and employee interviews were completed between August 2003 and February 2004. Monthly radiation measurements were obtained from personal dosimeters issued to TSA baggage screeners between March and August 2004. During the basic characterization phase, we observed poor work practices such as employees reaching into the Explosive Detection System (EDS) machines to clear bag jams and employees covering up the emergency stop buttons. We inspected and measured radiation exposure rates for 281 EDS machines. We observed that EDS machines at several airports exhibited a flaw that could be a source of unnecessary radiation exposure to TSA baggage screeners operating these machines. Radiation could leak out of the main gantry housing the computer-aided tomography (CAT) scanner through gaps between the entrance and exit baggage conveyors that appeared because the conveyor belt tunnels on most standalone units were not bolted to the gantry. Workers who frequently have to push odd-sized baggage up the entrance conveyor of the standalone machines are potentially exposed to the radiation present in the gap between the gantry and conveyor belt tunnel. We recommended taking six machines offline because the potential exposures to workers from these machines were equal to or greater than 500 microRoentgen per hour (uR/hour), the Food and Drug Administration's Performance Standard for cabinet x-ray systems. Occupational radiation measurements over a 6-month period from 854 TSA employees included 4024 results from dosimeters worn on the chest (as an estimate of exposure received by the whole body) and 3944 results from dosimeters worn on the wrist. Approximately 89% of the occupational whole body exposures and 88% of the occupational exposures to the wrist were below 1 millirem (mrem). None of the participants' doses in this evaluation exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit of 1250 mrem per calendar quarter for individuals present in a restricted area (an area where access is controlled by the employer for purposes of protecting individuals from exposure to radiation or radioactive materials). Furthermore, no doses exceeded 25% of the OSHA quarterly limit which would require employee monitoring. The median estimated 12-month cumulative occupational whole body dose during the period of observation was zero at four of six airports. The highest median estimated 12-month cumulative occupational doses (whole body and wrist) occurred at LAX (14.7 and 15.5 mrem); the other airport with a non-zero median estimated 12-month cumulative dose was BOS (0.4 mrem each for whole body and wrist). Doses for only two out of 854 individuals exceeded the 500 mrem/year estimated cumulative occupational dose, which is the monitoring threshold of the National Radiation Council, and only 13 exceeded an estimated cumulative whole body or wrist dose of 100 mrem/year, which is the monitoring threshold of the Department of Energy. However, because the sample of airports may not be representative, and the study participants were volunteers, these results may not generalize to the entire TSA workforce. Given the strengths and weaknesses of this study, the need for a routine radiation dosimetry program for TSA screeners can neither be justified nor refuted at this time. Approximately 90% of the doses that screeners received were below 1 mrem, but some doses were at levels that warrant further action. Therefore, additional monthly or quarterly dosimetry targeted at specific airports for at least a year may be useful to evaluate the high doses reported in this evaluation. The number of airports and the specific airports for this targeted monitoring are left to the discretion of the TSA. Selection criteria could include airport size, machine type, and orientation of machines (in-line versus standalone). It is recommended that the dosimetry program be managed by a health or medical physicist. To address weaknesses of this study, we also recommend that TSA make participation in the dosimetry program mandatory.
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(2008) Worker exposures to noise, metalworking fluids, welding fumes, and acids during metal conduit manufacturing, Republic Conduit, Louisville, Kentucky. (Click to open report) On August 8, 2006, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Republic Conduit in Louisville, Kentucky. The requestors expressed concerns about workplace exposures to acids, unsafe confined space entry procedures, and inadequate PPE for handling acids. We conducted an initial site visit to Republic Conduit on November 13, 2006, during which we performed a walk-through of the facility and interviewed workers. Based on our observations, workers were potentially exposed to acids, ... (Click to show more)On August 8, 2006, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Republic Conduit in Louisville, Kentucky. The requestors expressed concerns about workplace exposures to acids, unsafe confined space entry procedures, and inadequate PPE for handling acids. We conducted an initial site visit to Republic Conduit on November 13, 2006, during which we performed a walk-through of the facility and interviewed workers. Based on our observations, workers were potentially exposed to acids, Cr(VI), MWFs, welding fumes, and noise. Of the 13 employees who we selected for medical interviews, two reported acute upper respiratory symptoms and exacerbation of asthma symptoms related to a brief exposure to HCL during a leak. Four reported injuries not associated with acid exposure, which included back pain, skin irritation, lacerations, and crushed fingers. A review of OSHA's Form 300 Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses for 2006 revealed that of 21 entries, 11 listed crushed fingers or lacerations caused by contact with conduit. We conducted a follow-up site visit to Republic Conduit during March 5-8, 2007, to sample for acid mists, MWFs, elements from welding fumes, and Cr(VI) from chromic acid; conduct noise dosimetry; and review the company's written health and safety programs. All sampling results were below applicable OELs except for noise and MWFs. Of the 35 personal noise exposure measurements taken during this evaluation, 33 exceeded the NIOSH REL of 85 dBA. Because OSHA uses different criteria to measure noise exposure, only six exceeded the OSHA PEL of 90 dBA, though 29 exceeded the OSHA AL of 85 dBA. Three of 21 PBZ sample results equaled or exceeded the NIOSH REL-TWA for MWFs of 0.4 mg/m3 (thoracic particulate mass). During the March 2007 site visit, we provided all 168 production workers on three shifts a survey form asking about their workplace exposures, use of PPE, hazard communication, and confined space entry procedures. Sixty-nine workers (41%) completed the voluntary survey. In general, workers were concerned about their workplace exposures, specifically to acids and zinc oxide dust. Based on PBZ air sampling conducted during this evaluation, we recommend that Republic Conduit enclose the mills and install local exhaust ventilation to reduce airborne MWF concentrations below the NIOSH REL. We recommend mill operators use respiratory protection until airborne concentrations of MWFs are below the NIOSH REL-TWA. After the controls are installed, additional PBZ air sampling should be conducted to determine if the airborne concentration of MWFs has been reduced and if respiratory protection is still needed. Controls should be installed to reduce impact noise generated by metal to metal contact, and hearing protection should be used properly to reduce the risk of hearing loss. We also provide recommendations for protecting workers while performing maintenance on systems with acids, reducing injuries, and revising the written respiratory protection and confined space entry programs. Further recommendations are provided in the recommendations section of this document.
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(2007) COL-FIN Specialty Steel, Fallston, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) On February 27, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the United Steelworkers of America Local 9305 for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at COL-FIN Specialty Steel (COL-FIN) in Fallston, Pennsylvania. The union was concerned about inadequate ventilation in the pickling and annealing areas and other potential health hazards throughout the whole plant. On November 11, 2003, NIOSH investigators made an initial visit to the facility to meet w... (Click to show more)On February 27, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the United Steelworkers of America Local 9305 for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at COL-FIN Specialty Steel (COL-FIN) in Fallston, Pennsylvania. The union was concerned about inadequate ventilation in the pickling and annealing areas and other potential health hazards throughout the whole plant. On November 11, 2003, NIOSH investigators made an initial visit to the facility to meet with union and management representatives, tour the facility to understand the manufacturing process, and observe work practices. Between March 8 and March 12, 2004, NIOSH investigators returned to COL-FIN to conduct environmental sampling and medical interviews with employees. Area and personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples for respirable particulates and acids (sulfuric and hydrochloric) were collected during the annealing, pickling, and hot etching of steel coils. Area and PBZ air samples for respirable particulates from soap powder and metal working fluids (MWFs) were collected when employees were drawing, straightening, and grinding the steel coils. Respirable particulate samples were also analyzed for crystalline silica. Spot measurements for carbon monoxide (CO) were taken in the annealing area. In addition, personal noise measurements were made on employees during the annealing, drawing, straightening, and grinding processes. Material handlers, who transport steel coils on gas-powered forklifts throughout the production area were assessed for exposure to noise, respirable particulates, silica, CO, and acids. A short-term sample for hydrochloric acid collected during the etching process exceeded the NIOSH and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ceiling limits; sulfuric acid levels were below all occupational exposure limits (OELs). Respirable particulate and silica levels were also below all OELs. Spot measurements for CO ranged up to 18 parts per million. Area and PBZ air samples collected in the grinding and shaving areas were above the NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL) for MWFs; the local exhaust ventilation units for the grinding and shaving equipment were not functioning as intended. The personal noise dosimetry data showed that noise levels for two material handlers exceeded the OSHA action level of 85 decibels on an A-weighted scale. Many employees' noise levels also exceeded the more protective NIOSH REL. Thirty-five workers were interviewed. Many workers reported respiratory (66%) and skin problems (31%) consistent with exposure to MWFs and other occupational exposures. Over half of interviewed workers were current smokers. Smoking occurred throughout the plant, exposing non-smokers to secondhand smoke. Exposures to excessive levels of noise and MWFs, as well as exposure to secondhand smoke, constitute a health hazard at COL-FIN. Employees reported respiratory and dermal problems consistent with their occupational exposures. NIOSH investigators recommend enrolling COL-FIN employees in a hearing conservation program and banning smoking inside the facility. NIOSH investigators also recommend servicing the local exhaust ventilation units in the grinding and shaving areas to reduce exposure to MWFs and establishing a medical monitoring program for workers exposed to MWFs.
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(2007) Copperhill smelter worker study. (Click to open report) The union that represented some workers at the smelter asked NIOSH to study worker health. The union and people in the nearby community wanted to know if health problems were related to working in or living near the smelter. Although this study only included smelter workers, NIOSH thought the results would help answer questions about health in the community. Many people in the community worked at the smelter. Also, smelter operators had data about exposures in the plant. These data would help re... (Click to show more)The union that represented some workers at the smelter asked NIOSH to study worker health. The union and people in the nearby community wanted to know if health problems were related to working in or living near the smelter. Although this study only included smelter workers, NIOSH thought the results would help answer questions about health in the community. Many people in the community worked at the smelter. Also, smelter operators had data about exposures in the plant. These data would help researchers better understand whether smelter-related exposures were linked to health problems. Because a study of the smelter workers had been done in the 1980s, this study was possible. The researchers set the following four goals for the study: 1. Compare death rates and causes of death in smelter workers with those in the general population. 2. Describe the work environment in the smelter by work area, job title, and levels of exposure to six agents. 3. Describe the smoking history of smelter workers and use this information to help understand the cause-of-death results. 4. Examine whether specific causes of death were related to exposures in the smelter work setting. The study included 2,422 men who worked in the smelter, mill, or sulfur plant for 3 or more years between January 1946 and April 1996. For the years 1949 through 2000, the researchers found out whether these workers were living or deceased. If the workers were deceased, the researchers obtained information about their cause of death. The researchers used information from national and state records to learn whether people in the study had died. The researchers then obtained information about the causes of those deaths. They also used information from records in the smelter about the age, race, and sex of people in the study. They compared the number of deaths of smelter workers to the number that would be expected in groups of people who did not work in the smelter. These included the general population of the United States and the population of the counties around the smelter. They made these comparisons for all causes of death combined, for groups of diseases (such as all cancer or all lung disease), and for specific diseases (such as lung cancer or cerebrovascular disease, also known as stroke). They used statistical tests to decide if the results were meaningful. When they saw meaningful differences, they looked to see if death rates were related to exposure. They got exposure information from smelter records and by interviewing workers about smelter operations. To look at exposure, they grouped people by how long they worked in the plant, what department they worked in, their job title, and the level of exposure. They estimated exposure levels for lead, arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, dust, and sulfur dioxide based on records of workplace air sampling done by smelter operators. All causes of death. Of the workers in the study, 961 (41%) were deceased. Researchers found a cause of death for 878 of these. The total number of deaths expected among smelter workers was based on national and local county rates. For all causes of death, all types of cancer, all types of heart disease, respiratory disease other than cancer, and many of the specific causes of death, the rates in the surrounding counties were similar to the national rates. Cancer deaths. Of the workers in the study, 228 died of cancer. This was 18% lower than expected based on national rates and 16% lower based on local county rates. When specific types of cancer were looked at separately, some differences between smelter workers and the general population were found. Most of these differences were based on numbers of deaths so small they were not thought to be important. Eleven workers died of cancer of the central nervous system, an excess of 39% compared to the general population. By statistical tests, this difference was not meaningful. Noncancer deaths. The results did not show that smelter workers had a meaningful increase in the risk of death from any other cause of death. Levels of exposure. The average exposure levels for lead and sulfur dioxide were close to the current workplace limits for these agents. For arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, and dust, the past average exposure levels were much lower than current limits. Causes of death and exposure. After examining all causes of death and all measures of exposure, the researchers looked at two findings more closely. These were the link between arsenic exposure and stroke and the link between cadmium exposure and bronchitis. Stroke and arsenic exposure. Seventy workers died of stroke. The risk of death from stroke was higher for people who worked longer and for people with more arsenic exposure. By statistical tests, this difference was not meaningful. For example, workers with the highest level of total exposure were 1.5 times more likely to die of stroke than unexposed workers, but the p value, a measure of significance, was 0.17; a p value of 0.05 or less is regarded as statistically significant. Bronchitis and cadmium exposure. Seven workers died of bronchitis. The risk of bronchitis death was higher for some exposed workers than for unexposed workers. This finding, however, was not the same for all exposure groups or measures. For example, workers with a moderate level of total cadmium exposure were 14.8 times more likely to die of bronchitis than unexposed workers. But, workers with the highest level of exposure were only 3.8 times more likely to die of bronchitis. The p value for these findings was 0.06, not statistically significant. As with most studies of this type, some factors make it hard for researchers to draw firm conclusions about the findings. First, because complete and accurate information about cigarette smoking was not available, the researchers could not investigate how cigarette smoking affected causes of death. But, it is unlikely that this limitation had an important effect on the conclusions. Second, this study was smaller than studies of other workplaces. The small size makes it less likely that the findings will be statistically significant, even if there is a real risk. Because of this, it is helpful to look at the how the findings of this study fit in with the findings of other studies of smelter workers or of other workers with similar exposures. Death rates for Copperhill smelter workers were lower than expected for all causes of death and from specific cancer and noncancer causes. This is not an unusual finding in studies of workers. So, researchers looked to see if workplace exposures were related to the risk of death from specific causes. One finding of interest was for arsenic and stroke. Another was for cadmium and bronchitis. The researchers concluded it is unlikely that arsenic exposure caused increased stroke risk or that cadmium exposure caused increased bronchitis disease risk in Copperhill workers. This conclusion is based on the detailed analyses of the findings from this study and on evidence from other studies about these exposures and diseases. It is also important to note that other studies of smelter workers have shown that arsenic exposure is related to respiratory cancer. Arsenic exposures in the Copperhill smelter were lower than in other smelters studied. The researchers in this study did not see an increase in respiratory cancer risk.
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(2007) Environmental Protection Services, Inc., Wheeling, West Virginia. (Click to open report) The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential employee request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at Environmental Protection Services (EPS), Inc. Wheeling, West Virginia. The request asked NIOSH to evaluate exposures to dust, smoke, and fumes generated while recycling transformers, some of which contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). During an initial site visit to the EPS facility on February 15-16, 2006, we observed the transformer recycling ... (Click to show more)The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential employee request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at Environmental Protection Services (EPS), Inc. Wheeling, West Virginia. The request asked NIOSH to evaluate exposures to dust, smoke, and fumes generated while recycling transformers, some of which contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). During an initial site visit to the EPS facility on February 15-16, 2006, we observed the transformer recycling processes, looked at potential worker exposures, and randomly selected eight persons for confidential interviews to discuss their concerns about work exposures and adverse health outcomes. On July 10-13, 2006, we took personal breathing-zone (PBZ) and area air samples for PCBs and metals, collected surface wipe samples and bulk samples of transformer oil for PCB analysis, and ash from incinerated materials for PCB and metal analysis. We found that a worker sorting and baling metal was exposed to copper and lead over the NIOSH recommended exposure limit-time weighted average (REL-TWA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) -TWA of 1 milligram per cubic meter (mg/m3) and 0.05 mg/m3, respectively. One PBZ air sample collected on a worker in the PCBXSM trailer was above the NIOSH REL for PCBs of 0.001 mg/m3. Some workers were wearing respirators inappropriately and had not been fit tested. Some work surfaces were contaminated with PCBs above 100 micrograms per square meter (µg/m2), a guideline used by NIOSH investigators based on the results of previous evaluations. We observed several unsafe work practices including lifting gas cylinders by the valve cap, working beneath an energized overhead shear without lockout/tagout, and storing sodium ingots near a water source. We did not find any health effects suggestive of PCB exposure. At one time all EPS employees were tested for serum PCB but currently only workers in the enclosed decontamination area are tested. EPS management referred one person with an elevated serum PCB level for medical evaluation. Our review of the EPS OSHA 300 Logs of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses did not identify any health effects suggestive of PCB or metals exposure. NIOSH investigators determined that a health hazard exists for some employees from exposure to lead, copper, and PCBs; improper use of respirators; and unsafe work practices. Recommendations are provided for engineering controls and modification of work practices to reduce employee exposures to metals and PCBs. NIOSH investigators also recommended that EPS management review procedures for handling gas cylinders, storing and handling sodium ingots, and working on energized equipment.
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(2007) Hurricane Katrina response. (Click to open report) On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck coastal areas in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi, causing numerous deaths, massive infrastructure damage, and flooding. The two hardest hit areas were along the Gulf Coast of Louisiana and Mississippi. The State of Louisiana and the City of New Orleans invited the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to assist with the rebuilding of the city's public health system. Between September 11, 2005, and October 29, 2005, investigator... (Click to show more)On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck coastal areas in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi, causing numerous deaths, massive infrastructure damage, and flooding. The two hardest hit areas were along the Gulf Coast of Louisiana and Mississippi. The State of Louisiana and the City of New Orleans invited the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to assist with the rebuilding of the city's public health system. Between September 11, 2005, and October 29, 2005, investigators from CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) were deployed to New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Their main objectives were to assist Federal, state, and local agencies in addressing occupational safety and health issues, to perform health and injury surveillance and exposure assessments among workers, to perform outreach to vulnerable workers, and to develop and disseminate occupational health information. Three teams of personnel responded to numerous requests for assistance in evaluating exposures to mold, chemicals, biological agents, floodwaters, dust and dried flood sediment, flood debris, and noise. Except for a limited number of noise exposure samples above the NIOSH recommended exposure limit and carbon monoxide levels above the NIOSH ceiling limit, environmental sampling for a variety of substances including asbestos, metals and dust did not reveal levels above recognized occupational exposure limits. A summary of the findings was shared with workers and employers. Safety hazards such as broken glass posed a risk to workers. Worksites in the flood-ravaged areas had varying degrees of capacity for hazard recognition, evaluation, and control. In general, the need for readily accessible, pertinent, understandable information regarding workplace hazards and exposures was apparent throughout the response, and distribution of information proved challenging.
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(2007) Report on severe fixed obstructive lung disease in workers at a flavoring manufacturing plant, Carmi Flavor and Fragrance Company, Inc., Commerce, California. (Click to open report) On June 11, 2006, CDHS-OHB and Cal/OSHA made a joint request for NIOSH technical assistance with industrial hygiene assessment and medical screening for occupational lung disease risk at the Carmi Flavor and Fragrance Company plant in Commerce, California. At the time of this request, Cal/OSHA was conducting a compliance investigation at this facility due to the identification in April 2006 of a former worker (and possibly a second worker) with bronchiolitis obliterans. NIOSH investigators were ... (Click to show more)On June 11, 2006, CDHS-OHB and Cal/OSHA made a joint request for NIOSH technical assistance with industrial hygiene assessment and medical screening for occupational lung disease risk at the Carmi Flavor and Fragrance Company plant in Commerce, California. At the time of this request, Cal/OSHA was conducting a compliance investigation at this facility due to the identification in April 2006 of a former worker (and possibly a second worker) with bronchiolitis obliterans. NIOSH investigators were aware of similarly affected workers at five other flavoring plants, and had previously investigated similar lung disease in microwave popcorn workers, identifying inhalation exposure to butter flavoring chemicals as the cause. In July 2006, NIOSH staff conducted a medical survey at the plant consisting of an interviewer-administered questionnaire and lung function testing with spirometry. In August 2006, NIOSH staff conducted industrial hygiene air sampling in all areas of the plant. NIOSH staff conducted follow-up spirometry tests on production and laboratory workers at the plant in November 2006. NIOSH staff conducted spirometry tests on 34 of 36 current workers and administered the questionnaire to 31 of 36 current workers at the plant. One former laboratory worker had the questionnaire and spirometry administered at the plant and two former production workers had the questionnaire and spirometry administered at an off-site location. Workers in all areas of the plant commonly reported symptoms of eye and nasal irritation. Respiratory symptoms were reported more often by production workers who made powdered flavorings and by laboratory workers. Respiratory illness was reported mostly by production workers who ever worked in powdered flavoring production. Respiratory illness was reported infrequently by other workers. Of the16 current workers and two former workers who had a history of working in the production room, four were found to have abnormal spirometry: one had mild restriction and the other three had severe fixed obstruction (FEV1 ranged from 21 to 32 percent of predicted). All three production workers with severe obstruction had made powdered flavorings. The highest area TWA total VOC concentrations were seen in the production room, with concentrations ranging from 10.3 mg/m3 to a high of 38.5 mg/m3. The highest real-time area total VOC concentrations (greater than 100,000 ppb units) were identified in the powdered flavoring production area during production of a butter-flavored baking powder which contained diacetyl, specifically when the production worker was filling boxes with the finished product. Some of the highest peak real-time VOC concentrations observed in the liquid flavoring production area may have resulted from migration of contaminants from the powdered flavoring production area. Full-shift personal and area mean TWA diacetyl air concentrations in the liquid flavoring production area were 0.030 ppm and 0.025 ppm respectively, and in the powdered flavoring production area were 0.223 ppm and 0.249 ppm respectively. Partial-shift personal and area mean TWA diacetyl air concentrations in the powdered flavoring production area during the production of butter-flavored and vanilla-flavored powders were 7.76 ppm and 21.2 ppm respectively. Real-time FTIR sampling in the workers' breathing zones during the production of these butter- and vanilla-flavored powders showed peak diacetyl air concentrations as high as 204 ppm during the packaging of the finished product.
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(2007) Yatsko's Popcorn, Sand Coulee, Montana. (Click to open report) In March 2006, NIOSH received a request for a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) from owners of Yatsko's Popcorn, a small popcorn popping plant, located in Sand Coulee, Montana. The company had originally operated out of a smaller building from 1979 to 1999, when the operation was moved to the current location. The occupational exposure concerns cited in this request included flavoring chemicals from popcorn production activities; reported health concerns included breathing problems, shortness of br... (Click to show more)In March 2006, NIOSH received a request for a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) from owners of Yatsko's Popcorn, a small popcorn popping plant, located in Sand Coulee, Montana. The company had originally operated out of a smaller building from 1979 to 1999, when the operation was moved to the current location. The occupational exposure concerns cited in this request included flavoring chemicals from popcorn production activities; reported health concerns included breathing problems, shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and skin disorders. This request was based on health concerns following NIOSH investigations of fixed obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans in microwave popcorn plant workers associated with exposure to butter flavorings. We conducted an industrial hygiene survey at the popcorn popping plant on April 12 and 13, 2006. Air samples were collected for total and respirable particles, particle size distributions, volatile organic compounds, total hydrocarbons, ketones (diacetyl, acetoin, and 2-nonanone), inorganic acids, and acetaldehyde. Bulk samples of flavoring ingredients were collected and analyzed for the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on heating. We reviewed medical records for two former workers and one current worker and we interviewed two workers and the spouse of the other worker. In May 2006, subsequent to our survey, the plant closed its operation. The main findings from this HHE include: At this plant, popcorn was popped and bagged; powdered cheese and jalapeno pepper flavorings were manually applied to some of the popped popcorn. Popping and bagging operations were done approximately twice a week for 2 to 4 hours per day depending on orders. Popping was done in a small building with a wall exhaust fan; the worker wore a disposable dust mask during popping; however, this was not a NIOSH-approved respirator. Diacetyl was detected by gas chromatography with mass spectroscopy (GCMS) in vapors released from a bulk sample of flavored oil heated to 50 degrees C in an analytical laboratory, although it was not a predominant volatile organic compound released from the oil. Diacetyl was also detected by GCMS in two- and four-hour area air samples. Concentrations were too low to be detected (less than approximately 0.01 parts per million (ppm) in four-hour personal and area air samples by NIOSH method 2257). Using a direct-reading instrument, a peak diacetyl concentration of 0.14 ppm was measured in the air directly above a heated container of butter-flavored oil. Aldehydes were the predominant type of VOC identified in area air samples. However, acetaldehyde concentrations were less than the detectable (0.09 ppm) or quantifiable (0.15 ppm) concentrations. Average area particle concentrations in air using gravimetric analysis were 2.72 milligrams per cubic meter of air (mg/m3) for total particles and 0.89 mg/m3 for respirable particles. Particle concentrations were higher during popcorn bagging activities than during other activities; particle concentrations were also higher on the day that powdered flavorings were applied to the popcorn than on the day when powdered flavorings were not used. Airborne exposures of this popcorn popping operation included lower diacetyl concentrations and more aldehyde compounds than was observed in microwave popcorn production. All three workers who worked at the company developed respiratory disease while working there. One former worker, who had only worked at the original smaller plant and who eventually died as a result of his respiratory disease, had airways obstruction that improved with a bronchodilator, which is consistent with asthma. Two other workers who had worked at both the original smaller plant and the current plant had symptoms of asthma; one of these had pulmonary function test results that improved significantly with a bronchodilator, which also is consistent with asthma. Some evidence suggests possible bronchiolitis obliterans in the worker who died and in one of the other two workers. While employed at the plant, all three workers experienced worsening of their respiratory symptoms the days they worked. NIOSH investigators found that aldehydes were the predominant type of volatile organic compound identified in air samples at the plant. Diacetyl was present in the air of the plant with a concentration too low to be quantified. Average area particle concentrations in air using gravimetric analysis were 2.72 mg/m3 for total particles and 0.89 mg/m3 for respirable particles. All three workers who worked at the plant developed respiratory symptoms while working there and had worsening of respiratory symptoms on days worked. Evidence from medical records and radiographs of these three individuals was consistent with asthma in all three workers and suggestive of possible bronchiolitis obliterans in two of the workers.
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(2006) ACH Foam Technologies, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. (Click to open report) On May 17, 2005, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential request from three employees at ACH Foam Technologies in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The requestors expressed concerns about potential long-term effects from exposure to smoke and chemicals generated while manufacturing polystyrene and cutting polyethylene sheeting and expandable polystyrene (EPS) foam. On August 31, 2005, NIOSH investigators sampled for chemical byproducts from the EPS process... (Click to show more)On May 17, 2005, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential request from three employees at ACH Foam Technologies in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The requestors expressed concerns about potential long-term effects from exposure to smoke and chemicals generated while manufacturing polystyrene and cutting polyethylene sheeting and expandable polystyrene (EPS) foam. On August 31, 2005, NIOSH investigators sampled for chemical byproducts from the EPS processes at the ACH facility. Personal breathing zone (PBZ) and area air samples were collected for pentane, styrene, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and respirable and total dust. Air samples collected on thermal desorption tubes identified pentane, styrene, acetophenone, ethylbenzene, and xylene as predominant chemicals. The charcoal tubes used to sample for VOCs were submitted for laboratory analysis for acetophenone, ethylbenzene, and xylene. Area concentrations of carbon monoxide, a potential byproduct from the EPS processes, were measured in several departments with a direct reading instrument. All sample results were below applicable occupational exposure limits. NIOSH investigators conclude that a health hazard did not exist on the day of this evaluation. Employees were not exposed over applicable occupational exposure limits to carbon monoxide, pentane, styrene, acetophenone, ethylbenzene, xylene, respirable dust, or total dust while molding and cutting EPS products. Recommendations in this report include providing local exhaust ventilation in the hot wire cutting area, repairing damaged duct work in the Recycling department, and improving communication between supervisors and employees.
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(2006) Broward County Parks and Recreation Division, Markham Park, Sunrise, Florida. (Click to open report) On March 2, 2005, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential union request for a health hazard evaluation at Markham Park in Sunrise, Florida. The request concerned potential exposure to lead, arsenic, pesticides, herbicides, and cleaning chemicals. Employees were concerned about lead exposure from the Park's shooting range and from old painted signs. Arsenic exposure was a concern due to the reported use of an arsenic containing ant-killer and chro... (Click to show more)On March 2, 2005, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential union request for a health hazard evaluation at Markham Park in Sunrise, Florida. The request concerned potential exposure to lead, arsenic, pesticides, herbicides, and cleaning chemicals. Employees were concerned about lead exposure from the Park's shooting range and from old painted signs. Arsenic exposure was a concern due to the reported use of an arsenic containing ant-killer and chromated copper arsenate (CCA) treated lumber. Two employees had reportedly been diagnosed with heavy metal poisoning. On July 5-6, 2005, NIOSH investigators conducted surface wipe samples for lead in and around the shooting ranges, and from the hands of shooting range personnel. All workers were invited to participate in medical testing, which included an interview and collection of blood and urine specimens for lead and arsenic, respectively. Surface wipe sampling for lead on table and floor surfaces in the shooting range revealed lead levels ranging from 94.7 micrograms lead per 100 square centimeters (mcg/100 cm2) to 519.7 mcg lead/100 cm2. Lead levels on table and floor surfaces in the firing range clubhouse were approximately 10 times lower (range: 9.3 mcg/100 cm2 to 55.7 mcg lead/100 cm2). Surface lead levels in the recreation areas of the clubhouse were the lowest (5.3 mcg lead/100 cm2 on the picnic table in the clubhouse covered patio area and 1.7 mcg lead/100 cm2 on the floor of the clubhouse conference room). Lead levels on the hands of two range attendants ranged from 27.7 to 88.7 mcg lead. No federal standards for lead contamination of surfaces in occupational settings exist. Of 19 employees, 11 volunteered for medical evaluation (interview and specimen collection) while four other employees provided interviews only. None had elevated urinary inorganic arsenic levels. Four of the range employees had minimally elevated blood lead levels and all others were nondetectable. None of the interviewed employees described adverse health effects they considered work related aside from possible heat stress and hearing loss. At the time of this site visit, arsenic did not present a health hazard. There was evidence of minimal exposures to lead for the firing range staff but not for the groundskeeping staff. The presence of lead on the hands of range attendants highlights the importance of proper personal hygiene practices, as hand-to-mouth ingestion of lead dust could be the cause of the low levels of lead detected in the blood of some of the range staff. Recommendations are made regarding employee training, proper handling of chromated copper arsenate (CCA) treated lumber, proper range housekeeping, proper storage and handling of onsite chemicals, and further evaluation of heat stress and noise exposures.
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