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HHE Search Results
283 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
(1984) Southwest Power Station, City Utilities, Springfield, Missouri. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Safety Department of City Utilities to evaluate employee exposures to coal and other dusts and fumes at the Southwest Power Facility (SIC-4911), Springfield, Missouri a visit was made to this site. All personal coal dust, fly ash, crystalline silica (14808607), nitrogen-dioxide (10102440), nitric-oxide (10102439), and sulfuric-acid (7664939) samples were below the lowest current criterion level. Four of eight personal sulfur-dioxide (7446095) samples exceeded th... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Safety Department of City Utilities to evaluate employee exposures to coal and other dusts and fumes at the Southwest Power Facility (SIC-4911), Springfield, Missouri a visit was made to this site. All personal coal dust, fly ash, crystalline silica (14808607), nitrogen-dioxide (10102440), nitric-oxide (10102439), and sulfuric-acid (7664939) samples were below the lowest current criterion level. Four of eight personal sulfur-dioxide (7446095) samples exceeded the NIOSH recommended criterion of 1.3mg/m3). Medical evaluation resulted in the identification of three workers with chronic bronchitis each of whom smoked cigarettes, eight workers with pulmonary function test abnormalities indicating obstructive airways disease, and two workers with features of restrictive lung disease. One chest X-ray was consistent with pneumoconiosis. The authors conclude that a health hazard existed for employees exposed to sulfur-dioxide and noise. A potential hazard also existed for employee exposure to heat stress in certain locations in the facility. The authors recommend improvements in the respiratory protection program, use of personal protective equipment, and initiation of an employee training program and environmental monitoring by management.
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(1984) The Dotson Company, Mankato, Minnesota. (Click to open report) Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for acrolein (107028), dimethylethylamine (124403), ammonia (7664417), formaldehyde (50000), furfuryl-alcohol (98000), hexamethylenetetramine (100970), and methylene-bisphenyl-isocyanate (101688) (MDI) at Dotson Company foundry (SIC-3321, 3565), Mankato, Minnesota, in February and March 1983. The evaluation was requested by the employees due to reported symptoms of headache, dyspnea, eye and nose irritation, nausea, and blurred vision. Inter... (Click to show more)Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for acrolein (107028), dimethylethylamine (124403), ammonia (7664417), formaldehyde (50000), furfuryl-alcohol (98000), hexamethylenetetramine (100970), and methylene-bisphenyl-isocyanate (101688) (MDI) at Dotson Company foundry (SIC-3321, 3565), Mankato, Minnesota, in February and March 1983. The evaluation was requested by the employees due to reported symptoms of headache, dyspnea, eye and nose irritation, nausea, and blurred vision. Interviews were conducted with eight active and five laid off employees. The medical records of all employees, a total of 21, were consulted. Airborne concentrations of acrolein, furfuryl-alcohol, ammonia, hexamethylenetetramine, and MDI were below the detection limits. Dimethylethylamine concentrations were below recommended standards. Formaldehyde concentrations were 0.3 to 0.9 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). The OSHA standard for formaldehyde is 3.7mg/m3. The most frequently reported symptoms included eye irritation, blurred vision, cough, dry throat, nausea, and dizziness. The authors conclude that employee exposure to detectable concentrations of formaldehyde has occurred. Four of 21 employees had X-ray evidence of silicosis. Recommendations include use of control devices to reduce formaldehyde exposures and further studies to evaluate silica (14808607) exposure.
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(1984) U.S. Steel, Lorain-Cuyahoga Works, Lorain, Ohio. (Click to open report) Workplace exposures and worker pulmonary function were investigated in May, 1980, November, 1980, July, 1981, and May, 1982 at US Steel (SIC-3310), Lorain, Ohio. Evaluation was requested by the United Steel Workers of America, Local 1044. Personal breathing zone samples were collected for silica (14808607), lead (7439921), manganese (7439965), trivalent chromium (16065831), calcium-oxide (1305788), iron-oxide (1309371), coal-tar-pitch (8007452) volatiles, and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (P... (Click to show more)Workplace exposures and worker pulmonary function were investigated in May, 1980, November, 1980, July, 1981, and May, 1982 at US Steel (SIC-3310), Lorain, Ohio. Evaluation was requested by the United Steel Workers of America, Local 1044. Personal breathing zone samples were collected for silica (14808607), lead (7439921), manganese (7439965), trivalent chromium (16065831), calcium-oxide (1305788), iron-oxide (1309371), coal-tar-pitch (8007452) volatiles, and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). Medical records were reviewed, and blood lead values, chest X-rays, and pulmonary function tests were examined. Questionnaires were distributed and spirometric testing was conducted. Several breathing zone samples exceeded respective OSHA limits of 280, 50, 5000, and 200 micrograms per cubic meter for silica, lead, calcium-oxide, and coal-tar-pitch volatiles. PAH compounds identified included benzo(a)pyrene (50328), chrysene (218019), pyrene (129000), benz(a)anthracene (56553), and fluoranthrene (206440). Blood lead concentrations were not significantly increased; one chest X-ray indicated pneumoconiosis, and another indicated asbestos (1332214) exposure. Reduced forced vital capacity (FVC) and reduced forced expiratory volume/FVC ratios were found in 14 and 20 percent, respectively, of 119 workers tested. These measures were not correlated with exposure to silica. The authors conclude that a respiratory hazard from silica dust exists. Recommendations are provided for additional environmental monitoring.
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(1984) United States Assay Office, San Francisco, California. (Click to open report) Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for metal fume particulates, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNA), hydrogen- sulfide (7783064) (H2S), and carbon-monoxide (630080) (CO) at the United States Assay Office (SIC-9999), San Francisco, California in March and April 1983. Evaluation was requested out of concern for exposure to metal fumes from the melting of coins and possible work related headaches, nausea, and kidney disease. Twelve workers were interviewed and the medical re... (Click to show more)Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for metal fume particulates, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNA), hydrogen- sulfide (7783064) (H2S), and carbon-monoxide (630080) (CO) at the United States Assay Office (SIC-9999), San Francisco, California in March and April 1983. Evaluation was requested out of concern for exposure to metal fumes from the melting of coins and possible work related headaches, nausea, and kidney disease. Twelve workers were interviewed and the medical records of six employees working in the melting room were reviewed. Metal fumes, CO, and H2S concentrations were below all relevant standards. Two PNA compounds, fluoranthene (206440) and pyrene (129000), were detected at concentrations of respectively. There is no current standard for fluoranthene or pyrene. No pattern of medical symptoms or physical findings that were work related were found. The authors conclude that no overexposure to environmental contaminants has occurred. Recommendations include substituting the quenching oil used as a mold release with a sodium-silicate wash to eliminate PNA exposure and using an appropriate respirator in the melting room.
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(1983) British Airways, Kennedy Airport, Jamaica, New York. (Click to open report) The etiology of itching and dermatitis was investigated at the British Airways terminal (SIC-4583), Kennedy International Airport, Jamaica, New York. Request for the investigation was made by several of the 110 employees in response to cases of itching and dermatitis. Airborne dust samples were collected and particles were identified. Temperature and humidity of the ambient air were measured. Employees were questioned about health symptoms, work history, time spent using video display terminals,... (Click to show more)The etiology of itching and dermatitis was investigated at the British Airways terminal (SIC-4583), Kennedy International Airport, Jamaica, New York. Request for the investigation was made by several of the 110 employees in response to cases of itching and dermatitis. Airborne dust samples were collected and particles were identified. Temperature and humidity of the ambient air were measured. Employees were questioned about health symptoms, work history, time spent using video display terminals, and type of clothing worn. Dust samples consisted primarily of aluminum- silicates, iron-silicates, gypsum, plant and paper fragments, and starch grains. Minor components included calcium phosphates, various oxides and carbonates, and crystalline and amorphous silica. All of these are commonly found in soils and wind blown dust. Two samples contained trace amounts of fibrous glass. Some dust samples contained 5 to 15 percent glass pieces. No insects were found. Employees exhibited various skin irritations, but no pattern between symptoms and duties could be found. The authors conclude that there is no substantial exposure to airborne particulates. In dry atmospheres, dust can become electrically charged and cause irritation. It is recommended that video display terminals be vacuumed and the relative humidity be kept above 30 percent.
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(1983) Culley Generating Station, Yankeetown, Indiana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 702, an evaluation of possible health hazards was undertaken at the Culley Generating Station of the Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company (SIC-4911), Yankeetown, Indiana. At the time of the study exposures to most airborne contaminants were low. Two samples taken in areas near the boilers were above the NIOSH recommended limit of 1.3 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) for sulfur-dioxide (7446095). The h... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 702, an evaluation of possible health hazards was undertaken at the Culley Generating Station of the Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company (SIC-4911), Yankeetown, Indiana. At the time of the study exposures to most airborne contaminants were low. Two samples taken in areas near the boilers were above the NIOSH recommended limit of 1.3 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) for sulfur-dioxide (7446095). The highest coal dust level for this facility was 1.31mg/m3. The highest fly ash concentration in personal samples was 0.26mg/m3. Medical reports on the 173 employees were reviewed, yielding four cases of pneumoconiosis among men with an average employment period at this facility of 24 years. Three of the four were equipment operators, and the fourth was an electrician with responsibilities over the entire facility. The authors conclude that a hazard existed for some workers exposed to sulfur-dioxide, and that a potential hazard existed due to boiler leaks. The authors recommend that the respiratory protection program be upgraded and that employees be trained in the use and care of respirators. Environmental and medical monitoring of the employees should be increased. A joint labor/management health and safety committee should be established. Leaking seals on coal mills and other equipment should be repaired. All exposed insulation should be wrapped or covered. A heat stress survey should be conducted for those working on the boiler units and operating dozers. Regularly scheduled maintenance operations should be designed for boiler units.
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(1983) Drive Train Industries, Inc., Casper, Wyoming. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a representative of the employees at Drive Train Industries, Inc. (SIC-3714), Casper, Wyoming, a possible asbestos (1332214) hazard was investigated at the facility. An evaluation was also made of stoddard-solvent (8052413), welding fumes, iron-oxide (1309371), lead (7439921), crystalline silica (7631869), and noise exposures. This facility was involved in the rebuilding and repairing of various truck parts including brakes, clutches, drivelines, transmissions, and ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a representative of the employees at Drive Train Industries, Inc. (SIC-3714), Casper, Wyoming, a possible asbestos (1332214) hazard was investigated at the facility. An evaluation was also made of stoddard-solvent (8052413), welding fumes, iron-oxide (1309371), lead (7439921), crystalline silica (7631869), and noise exposures. This facility was involved in the rebuilding and repairing of various truck parts including brakes, clutches, drivelines, transmissions, and other mechanical parts. Many of the brakes and clutches as well as parts of other products, were refurbished and relined with some asbestos material. Three personal air samples and three area samples were collected for asbestos which produced values ranging from less than 0.1 to 340mg/m3, with the average value being 64mg/m3. Iron-oxide concentrations at the welding station ranged from 0.2 to 12mg/m3. The average lead concentration was 0.03mg/m3. No silica was detected. One worker was overexposed to noise with an 8 hour average of 94.3 decibels-A. The author concludes that a health hazard does exist from excessive noise exposures and elevated iron- oxide levels. The author recommends that adequate hearing protectors should be provided by the management.
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(1983) East Leyden High School, Franklin Park, Illinois. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a representative of the East Leyden High School (SIC-8211) located in Franklin Park, Illinois, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous conditions in the art department of the school. Particular attention was given to the use of various substances during ceramics, metal casting, and other special class activities. The art department was located in the basement of the school; the rooms were supplied with general ventilation through the central heating and cooling... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a representative of the East Leyden High School (SIC-8211) located in Franklin Park, Illinois, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous conditions in the art department of the school. Particular attention was given to the use of various substances during ceramics, metal casting, and other special class activities. The art department was located in the basement of the school; the rooms were supplied with general ventilation through the central heating and cooling system of the school. Local exhaust ventilation is also provided at individual machines and in the kiln room. The 8 hour time weighted average concentration of respirable crystalline silica (7631869) as quartz (14808607) was 42 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3) in the personal breathing zone air sample and 69microg/m3 in the area air sample. The respirable particulate concentration was 2.8 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) in personal samples and 2.4mg/m3 in area samples. The quartz content of a bulk clay sample was 19 percent. During bisque firing, the total particulate concentration in the area air sample was 0.1mg/m3. Concentrations of carbon-monoxide, sulfur-dioxide, nitrogen-dioxide, hydrochloric-acid or trace metals during ceramic firing were not significant. Analysis of a bulk sample of the lining of the kiln indicated no asbestos was present. The author concludes that no health hazard existed at the school; a potential hazard may exist if exposures are not properly controlled. The author recommends specific changes in procedures to reduced exposures from art processes.
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(1983) Elkem Metals Company, Alloy, West Virginia. (Click to open report) Adverse exposures and disease risks were investigated in December 1981 and July 1982 at Elkem Metals Company (SIC-3313), Alloy, West Virginia. Evaluation was requested by the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers Union, Local 3-89. Air samples were collected to evaluate respirable particulates, silica (14808607), silicon (7440213), arsenic (7440382), and fly-ash. Insurance records were used for a Proportional Mortality Study of deaths between 1966 and 1980. Workers completed medical questionnaires an... (Click to show more)Adverse exposures and disease risks were investigated in December 1981 and July 1982 at Elkem Metals Company (SIC-3313), Alloy, West Virginia. Evaluation was requested by the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers Union, Local 3-89. Air samples were collected to evaluate respirable particulates, silica (14808607), silicon (7440213), arsenic (7440382), and fly-ash. Insurance records were used for a Proportional Mortality Study of deaths between 1966 and 1980. Workers completed medical questionnaires and pulmonary function tests. Chest X-rays also were evaluated. The only hazardous exposure involved crystalline silica. Concentrations were below OSHA limits, but exceeded the action limit of 50 percent of the NIOSH standard (0.05 milligrams per cubic meter). Workers reported shortness of breath, cough, and conditions consistent with chronic bronchitis. Of 86 sets of chest X-rays, 3 confirmed and 1 suspected case of pneumoconiosis were identified. One case of asbestos plague was also found. Pulmonary function tests did not reveal significant numbers of job related impairments. Elevated mortality rates were identified for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cor pulmonale. The authors conclude that a crystalline silica exposure hazard exists. Workers are at risk of developing nonmalignant respiratory disease and chronic bronchitis. They recommend chest X- rays, environmental monitoring, and engineering controls.
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(1983) Great Lakes Carbon Corporation, Port Arthur, Texas. (Click to open report) Environmental samples were analyzed for calcined petroleum coke dust, crystalline silica (14808607), sulfates, sulfites, and polynuclear aromatics at Great Lakes Carbon Corporation (SIC-2999), Port Arthur, Texas in January 1982. The survey was requested by the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers International Union Local 4/23 on behalf of 165 employees because of reported cases of anthracosis and anthrasilicosis. Air samples were examined for total and respirable particulates, crystalline silica, s... (Click to show more)Environmental samples were analyzed for calcined petroleum coke dust, crystalline silica (14808607), sulfates, sulfites, and polynuclear aromatics at Great Lakes Carbon Corporation (SIC-2999), Port Arthur, Texas in January 1982. The survey was requested by the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers International Union Local 4/23 on behalf of 165 employees because of reported cases of anthracosis and anthrasilicosis. Air samples were examined for total and respirable particulates, crystalline silica, sulfates, sulfites and polynuclear aromatics. Bulk samples of calcined petroleum coke were analyzed for polynuclear aromatic content. Respiratory examinations were performed. Total particulates ranged from 1.2 to 6.1 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). Respirable particulates ranged from 0.17 to crystalline silica, sulfates, or sulfites were detected. Concentrations of polynuclear aromatics ranged from 0.10 to 36 micrograms/m3. Ten percent of the workers had abnormal pulmonary function test results. Abnormal tests were associated with work in the mobile equipment department. X-rays revealed no job related abnormalities. The authors conclude that a hazard from overexposure to petroleum coke dusts containing polynuclear aromatics exists. More effective methods of dust control are recommended.
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