If you cannot find anything that addresses your concerns, please contact us to see how we can help.
All NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation reports and other NIOSH publications are available at no cost.
You can either download a copy of the publication from the website or contact us for a copy.
For HHE reports, please send an email to HHERequestHelp@cdc.gov.
Information about all other NIOSH publications is available at https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pubs/.
We carefully review our reports prior to publication, but we do make errors from time to time.
We regret any typographical or other minor errors that you might find. If you find a substantive factual or data-related error, let us know.
Please send an email to HHERequestHelp@cdc.gov with the report number (ex. HHE 2013-0500-7500),
the authors' names, the error you are reporting, and the page number of the error. We will look into your comments,
fix confirmed errors, and repost the report. Thank you for your interest in the HHE Program.
HHE Search Results
477 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
(1995) George Campbell Painting Company, Groton, Connecticut. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Brotherhood of Painters and Allied Trades of America, an investigation was begun into a possible hazard from carry home lead (7439921) containing dust during the removal of paint by George Campbell Painting Company, (SIC-1622), Groton, Connecticut. The company was renovating a two span highway bridge. Work had begun 4 months earlier and was to be finished in 36 months. Blood lead levels of the employees ranged from 2.2 to 16.5 micrograms/deciliter (microg/dl) wi... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Brotherhood of Painters and Allied Trades of America, an investigation was begun into a possible hazard from carry home lead (7439921) containing dust during the removal of paint by George Campbell Painting Company, (SIC-1622), Groton, Connecticut. The company was renovating a two span highway bridge. Work had begun 4 months earlier and was to be finished in 36 months. Blood lead levels of the employees ranged from 2.2 to 16.5 micrograms/deciliter (microg/dl) with a mean of 7.2microg/dl. The 13 workers whose jobs took them near the containment structure had blood lead levels much higher than the nine workers whose jobs were less exposed. Those in job categories of blaster/painter, apprentice, and recycling equipment operator had much higher time weighted average exposures than the OSHA permissible exposure limit of 40 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3). In three samples taken for the blaster/painters, the personal breathing zone lead concentration exceeded 1,000microg/m3. Surface lead levels on skin, clothing and personal cars were determined. In each of the 27 cars tested, lead was detected, with the greatest concentrations being on the floor at the driver's feet, suggesting lead was carried on the shoes. The authors conclude that workers who entered areas where abrasive blasting took place were potentially exposed to lead. Workers may carry lead on their skin and clothes into their cars. The authors recommend that personal hygiene practices be used to reduce these exposures.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1995) New York City Department of Sanitation, New York, New York. (Click to open report) In response to a joint request from the New York City Department of Sanitation and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, an investigation was begun into possible exposures to polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) at three waste incineration sites of the New York City Department of Sanitation (SIC-4953), New York City, New York. Six area air samples and five bulk fly ash samples were collected. Greater amounts of PCDDs/PCDFs ... (Click to show more)In response to a joint request from the New York City Department of Sanitation and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, an investigation was begun into possible exposures to polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) at three waste incineration sites of the New York City Department of Sanitation (SIC-4953), New York City, New York. Six area air samples and five bulk fly ash samples were collected. Greater amounts of PCDDs/PCDFs were present on the fly ash particulates collected from the electrostatic precipitator (ESP). A total of eight personal breathing zone and nine area samples were collected for metals during cleanout operations. Levels approached or exceeded the established criteria for arsenic (7440382), cadmium (7440439), lead (7439921), and nickel (7440020). For respirable dust/silica (14808607), the highest sample concentration occurred during ESP cleanout. The NIOSH recommended exposure limit for respirable quartz of 0.05mg/m3 was exceeded in one sample. The authors conclude that a health hazard existed during cleanout operations. The authors recommend that measures be taken to reduce exposures, including providing more effective respiratory protection, instruction on confined space entry, medical surveillance programs, and the prohibition of tobacco smoking in exposure locations.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1995) Pan American Health Organization, National Smelting Company, Oruro, Bolivia. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), an investigation was begun into possible exposures to heavy metals and sulfur-dioxide (7446095) at Empresa Metalurigica Vinto (SIC-3339), a large tin smelter near Oruro, Bolivia. Fifteen workers were selected for exposure monitoring. Of the 15, 14 had exposures greater than the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit or the OSHA Permissible Exposure Level to arsenic; 11 had hazardous exposures to cadmium (7440439), and eight had... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), an investigation was begun into possible exposures to heavy metals and sulfur-dioxide (7446095) at Empresa Metalurigica Vinto (SIC-3339), a large tin smelter near Oruro, Bolivia. Fifteen workers were selected for exposure monitoring. Of the 15, 14 had exposures greater than the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit or the OSHA Permissible Exposure Level to arsenic; 11 had hazardous exposures to cadmium (7440439), and eight had hazardous exposures to sulfur-dioxide. Surfaces throughout the facility were highly contaminated with heavy metals. Fifteen workers participated in biological monitoring studies. The median value for urinary arsenic (7440382) (UA) was 78 micrograms per gram creatinine. Nine of the 15 workers had UA levels exceeding the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Biological Exposure Index. The median blood lead (7439921) level was 19 micrograms per deciliter. The authors conclude that a significant health hazard from exposures to heavy metals and sulfur-dioxide exists for some of the employees at this location. The authors recommend that measures be taken to control the hazards, including further study of exposure, implementing engineering controls, improving hygiene facilities, implementing medical surveillance programs, and improving respiratory protection programs. (A Spanish language version of this publication is available. See NTIS-PB95-261061).
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1995) Sacramento Army Depot, Sacramento, California. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the American Federation of Governmental Employees, Local 1681 an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at the Sacramento Army Depot (SIC-7629), Sacramento, California. Workers in Building 555 reported light headedness, drowsiness, headaches, upset stomach, skin rashes, upper respiratory illness, sinus infections, and pneumonia. Workers in a small computer module in Warehouse 3 were concerned about air quality. Samples monitored for aceto... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the American Federation of Governmental Employees, Local 1681 an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at the Sacramento Army Depot (SIC-7629), Sacramento, California. Workers in Building 555 reported light headedness, drowsiness, headaches, upset stomach, skin rashes, upper respiratory illness, sinus infections, and pneumonia. Workers in a small computer module in Warehouse 3 were concerned about air quality. Samples monitored for acetone (67641), ethanol (64175), and isopropyl-alcohol (67630) showed all levels were below the NIOSH recommended levels. Lead (7439921) was not detected in the personal breathing zone samples taken. Air heating units inspected did not show any evidence of a microbiologic reservoir. Levels of carbon-dioxide (124389) as well as the temperature and relative humidity readings were all in the acceptable and normal ranges. All activities at the facility ceased with the closing of the Depot in 1995. The authors conclude that the symptoms found among employees could not be attributed to a particular compound. The authors indicate that the anticipated routine use of various organic solvents and the application of Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) paint during touch up operations at other facilities may require the use of engineering controls to keep levels down.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1995) University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland. (Click to open report) A study was conducted at the University of Maryland (SIC-8221), College Park, Maryland regarding the exposure of custodial workers to lead (7439921) during the performance of their duties. Personal breathing zone air samples collected for 16 workers were analyzed for lead, and blood lead levels were determined in 13 of the workers. During custodial and janitorial activities, time weighted average airborne lead concentrations ranged up to 36 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3); 44% of the samples ... (Click to show more)A study was conducted at the University of Maryland (SIC-8221), College Park, Maryland regarding the exposure of custodial workers to lead (7439921) during the performance of their duties. Personal breathing zone air samples collected for 16 workers were analyzed for lead, and blood lead levels were determined in 13 of the workers. During custodial and janitorial activities, time weighted average airborne lead concentrations ranged up to 36 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3); 44% of the samples contained no detectable lead. The highest short term exposures were recorded during the power belt sanding of a painted wooden door and during the heating of lead in a ladle during a plumbing repair. These levels were 36 and 26microg/m3, respectively. There were no detectable lead exposures occurring during the emptying of trash, sweeping floors, and vacuuming carpets. Lead content of paint chips ranged up to 19% by weight. Blood lead levels ranged from 2.8 to 10 micrograms/deciliter. These blood levels were normal for adults in this country. Of the 16 participants, nine occasionally wore a respirator on the job. The authors conclude that none of the tasks studied resulted in lead exposures in excess of the OSHA permissible exposure limit of 50microg/m3. The tasks producing the highest exposure levels were identified. Since those tasks which did produce the highest levels can be easily identified, the author recommends that these tasks be restructured.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1994) Blaw Knox Rolls, Inc., Wheeling, West Virginia. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the United Steelworkers of America, Local 3096, an investigation was begun into workplace exposures at the Blaw Knox facility (SIC-3321), Wheeling, West Virginia. The foundry produced rolls for both ferrous and nonferrous rolling mills. One of the major hazards found at the site was exposure to free crystalline silica (14808607). Of all personal and area samples taken, 42% exceeded the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Level for respirable quartz and 23% exceeded the OSHA ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the United Steelworkers of America, Local 3096, an investigation was begun into workplace exposures at the Blaw Knox facility (SIC-3321), Wheeling, West Virginia. The foundry produced rolls for both ferrous and nonferrous rolling mills. One of the major hazards found at the site was exposure to free crystalline silica (14808607). Of all personal and area samples taken, 42% exceeded the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Level for respirable quartz and 23% exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit. Overexposures were also noted to nickel (7440020), lead (7439921), chromium (7440473), sulfur-dioxide (7446095) and isopropyl-alcohol (67630). The respiratory health of 70% of the workers was examined, and pneumoconiotic changes with a median profusion reading of 1/0 or greater on the 12 point International Labor Organization scale were considered to be present on the chest x-rays of two of the workers. Obstructive lung function abnormalities were noted in 23% of the participants. No restrictive lung function abnormalities were noted. The authors conclude that a health hazard existed due to elevated levels of nickel, lead, chromium, sulfur-dioxide, isopropyl-alcohol and respirable free silica dust. The authors recommend that measures be taken to reduce these exposures. Medical surveillance should be provided for the workforce.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1994) Delaware County Resource Recovery Facility, Chester, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) In response to a confidential request, an investigation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at the Delaware County Resource Recovery Facility (SIC-4053), Chester, Pennsylvania. The facility was a waste to energy incinerator employing 91 persons. The facility incinerated municipal solid waste and refuse derived fuel to produce electrical power. The request was made in response to concern regarding exposure to lead (7439921), incinerator ash dust, and heat stress. Health concerns inc... (Click to show more)In response to a confidential request, an investigation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at the Delaware County Resource Recovery Facility (SIC-4053), Chester, Pennsylvania. The facility was a waste to energy incinerator employing 91 persons. The facility incinerated municipal solid waste and refuse derived fuel to produce electrical power. The request was made in response to concern regarding exposure to lead (7439921), incinerator ash dust, and heat stress. Health concerns included ear, nose and throat problems, eye irritation, and skin rash. During the initial visit, lead and other metals were found in settled dust throughout the facility. Lead, chromium (7440473), cadmium (7440439), and nickel (7440020) were present on lunch tables and on workers' hands. During a follow up visit, full shift personal air monitoring was conducted. The greatest concentrations of lead were found in bulk, wipe and air samples. Personal breathing samples taken showed that lead concentrations were well below the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit of 50 micrograms/cubic meter. A potential for excessive heat exposure was found on the fifth and sixth floor of the facility. Safety hazards cited during this visit included improper practices regarding personal protective equipment and inadequate personal hygiene practices such as handwashing. The authors conclude that a possible occupational health hazard existed due to heat exposure in some areas of the facility. The presence of metal in dust on workers' hands and surfaces presented a risk of ingestion.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1994) Gen Corp Automotive, Logansport, Indiana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the United Rubber, Cork, Linoleum, and Plastic Workers of America, an investigation was conducted into possible hazardous working conditions in department 634, Gen Corp Automotive (SIC-3061), Logansport, Indiana. Workers had reported skin problems and reproductive problems, and had expressed concern about exposure to solvents and nitrosamines. The company employed 512 workers in the production of automotive vibration control products from rubber stock and metal part... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the United Rubber, Cork, Linoleum, and Plastic Workers of America, an investigation was conducted into possible hazardous working conditions in department 634, Gen Corp Automotive (SIC-3061), Logansport, Indiana. Workers had reported skin problems and reproductive problems, and had expressed concern about exposure to solvents and nitrosamines. The company employed 512 workers in the production of automotive vibration control products from rubber stock and metal parts. Air quality samples taken during the study indicated that there was no significant acute hazard from inhaling organic solvent vapors in this work area. No exposures to nitrosamines or lead were detected. Possibly work related dermatitis and urticaria were reported by four workers. Many of the rubber components and the adhesives and elastomers used in the department have been known to cause irritant or allergic reactions. The authors conclude that solvent exposures were well below recommended standards at the time of the survey. Some employees could be experiencing irritant or allergic reactions. The authors recommend that chemical exposures be reduced and the improvements be made in worker education and communication, and management of worker skin problems.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1994) Kessler Studios, Loveland, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the owners of Kessler Studios (SIC- 3231), Loveland, Ohio, an investigation was conducted to determine whether hazardous working conditions existed at that site. The company was a small stained glass window studio, adjoining the owners' home. The owners were the only full time employees. Part time employees work occasionally at the studio. The primary concerns were lead (7439921) exposure from working with leaded came and the possible contamination of their home. Ai... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the owners of Kessler Studios (SIC- 3231), Loveland, Ohio, an investigation was conducted to determine whether hazardous working conditions existed at that site. The company was a small stained glass window studio, adjoining the owners' home. The owners were the only full time employees. Part time employees work occasionally at the studio. The primary concerns were lead (7439921) exposure from working with leaded came and the possible contamination of their home. Air samples taken during all processes conducted at the studio yielded low concentrations of lead, except one. Breathing zone lead dust concentrations ranging from 60 to 80 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3) were generated during the whiting process, a cleaning procedure. Lead dust accumulations in the workshop ranged from 1.2 to 1,600 milligrams per square meter. Wipe samples, vacuum dust samples, and general air samples in the home suggest that lead contamination was not occurring in their residence. Blood lead levels were 1.8 and 2.1 micrograms per deciliter. The zinc protoporphyrin blood levels were 34 and 31 micrograms/deciliter. The author concludes that personal lead exposures were low, except during whiting. Exposures to lead were minimized by ventilation and hygiene practices; these also prevented the contamination of their home.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1994) Lasko Metal Parts, Inc., R and S Manufacturing, Inc., Columbia, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) In response to a management request, an investigation was conducted of a new epoxy powder recycling process and epoxy powder exposures at R and S Manufacturing (SIC-3634), Columbia, Pennsylvania, a division of Lasko Metal Parts. The company produced electric motors used in oscillating fans. An epoxy powder was sprayed onto the motors and heat cured. Eight employees worked in the epoxy powder room. Personal breathing zone air samples were analyzed for C7 to C11 naphthas and 1,1,1-trichloroethane ... (Click to show more)In response to a management request, an investigation was conducted of a new epoxy powder recycling process and epoxy powder exposures at R and S Manufacturing (SIC-3634), Columbia, Pennsylvania, a division of Lasko Metal Parts. The company produced electric motors used in oscillating fans. An epoxy powder was sprayed onto the motors and heat cured. Eight employees worked in the epoxy powder room. Personal breathing zone air samples were analyzed for C7 to C11 naphthas and 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556) (TCE). General area air samples were analyzed for fiber identification, content of respirable dust, and crystalline silica (14808607). Only trace concentrations of wollastonite (13983170) were identified in the general air samples taken. Respirable dust general area air samples ranged from 0.20 to 0.24mg/m3. Results for crystalline silica were below the minimum detectable concentrations. Deficiencies were noted during a visual inspection of the local exhaust ventilation system. These deficiencies may have contributed to the minor symptoms of heat stress which were reported by employees. Potential lead (7439921) exposure was identified for workers in the wire department due to an inadequate exhaust hood design and poor work practices. Welding fumes from a manual spot welding station were exhausted into the factory. The authors conclude that exposures to epoxy powder were below nuisance dust criteria; however, exposures should be minimized. The authors recommend that exhaust ventilation deficiencies be corrected.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
