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HHE Search Results
1060 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
(2005) U.S. Department of Transportation, St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, Massena, New York. (Click to open report) In October 2001, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a joint labor/management request to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Dwight D. Eisenhower and Bertrand H. Snell Locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway, near Massena, New York. The request described "flu-like symptoms" and "general ill health" as concerns among workers exposed to stagnant water and decaying marine life during the annual winter inspection, cleaning, and repairs of the locks. Anothe... (Click to show more)In October 2001, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a joint labor/management request to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Dwight D. Eisenhower and Bertrand H. Snell Locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway, near Massena, New York. The request described "flu-like symptoms" and "general ill health" as concerns among workers exposed to stagnant water and decaying marine life during the annual winter inspection, cleaning, and repairs of the locks. Another impetus for the request was the collapse of one worker at the bottom of a lock during the previous winter. During site visits in 2002 and 2003, NIOSH investigators collected personal breathing zone (PBZ) and area air samples for endotoxins, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO), crystalline silica, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Endotoxin concentrations above relative limit values were measured on two workers. However, because these employees (both painters) left the worksite while wearing the monitoring equipment during part of their work shift, the exposures cannot be said to be work related. Peak PBZ H2S concentrations up to 87 parts per million (ppm) were measured while workers used pneumatic drills and jack hammers to remove deteriorating concrete from lock walls; the NIOSH recommended ceiling value is 10 ppm. Concentrations of CO, crystalline silica, and VOCs were below applicable NIOSH and OSHA occupational exposure limits. NIOSH investigators also concluded that the locks are confined spaces. NIOSH investigators identified 71 employees as having regular or intermittent exposure to the locks during winter work; 27 were interviewed or had information in their medical records that could be abstracted to identify disease trends or patterns. Most of the 27 workers reported a history of respiratory illness including bronchitis, pneumonia, or an aggravation of their asthma while working on the locks. Although several workers provided a history of seeing their health care provider for a winter illness, only two provided a history of having been hospitalized. Given the small percentage of workers who participated in this study, we cannot draw conclusions about the relationship between winter work activities and the risk of developing acute respiratory illnesses. NIOSH investigators conclude that some employees conducting winter work at the Dwight D. Eisenhower and Bertrand H. Snell Locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway are exposed to endotoxins, H2S, and VOCs. Acute respiratory illness due to H2S or VOC exposures at the levels measured during the NIOSH evaluation is unlikely. Recommendations are provided to consider the locks as confined spaces and to increase the ventilation inside the locks while winter work activities are conducted.
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(2005) U.S. Magnesium, Rowley, Utah. (Click to open report) In March 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a joint request for a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) from the management of U.S. Magnesium LLC, the United Steel Workers of America, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The requesters asked NIOSH to assess employee exposures to chlorinated hydrocarbons (CHCs), including chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), chlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), certain pesticid... (Click to show more)In March 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a joint request for a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) from the management of U.S. Magnesium LLC, the United Steel Workers of America, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The requesters asked NIOSH to assess employee exposures to chlorinated hydrocarbons (CHCs), including chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), chlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), certain pesticides (e.g., hexachlorobenzene [HCB]), and chlorine, all generated as byproducts during magnesium production at the U.S. Magnesium plant in Rowley, Utah. NIOSH investigators conducted a walk-through survey of the facility in May 2004, and made return visits in August and November 2004. The HHE involved quantitative exposure assessments, employee medical and occupational history questionnaires, and biological monitoring. NIOSH investigators determined blood levels of CHCs in a sample of longest-tenured workers in specific areas where CHCs were likely generated. Several measured chlorine exposures exceeded the NIOSH ceiling Recommended Exposure Level (REL) of 0.5 part per million (ppm) with peak exposures between 10 and 50 ppm. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), known to be generated in the production process, was measured by personal breathing zone (PBZ) samples, and exposures were mostly very low. Hand wipes and surface samples found evidence of HCB (from 0.14 to 3.5 micrograms [µg]) and indicated the potential for dermal exposure. Of forty-two PBZ and two area air samples collected for HCB and PCBs, five exceeded the exposure criterion (REL). Full-shift air sampling results for HCB ranged from 0.096 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) for a sample collected on a foundry operator to 5.3 µg/m3 for a maintenance helper working on the sixth floor reactor. In total, 5 of 42 PBZ samples (or approximately 12% of the total sample set) exceeded or were very close to an adjusted Threshold Limit Value for HCB. Air sample results indicate that certain congeners of PCB were present in workplace air above the minimum detection concentration (MDC). Bulk sample results indicated the presence of HCB at 250 micrograms per gram (µg/gr) and three congeners of PCB in collected dust. Nine of the twelve dioxin-like PCB congeners with assigned TEFs (dioxin-like PCB congeners have been assigned 2,3,7,8-TCDD Toxicity Equivalency Factors [TEFs], indicating their toxicity relative to 2,3,7,8-TCDD, which itself has been assigned a TEF of 1.0) were detected, including congener numbers 77, 105, 114, 123, 126, 156, 167, 169, and 180. Congener 20, which does not have an assigned TEF, was also detected. The 10 congeners that were detected ranged from trace (between the limit of detection [LOD] and limit of quantification [LOQ]) to 2 µg/sample for congener #209. Since only the Arochlor series of PCB have occupational exposure criteria, these results indicate that certain congeners of PCB are present in workplace air above the MDC; however, the meaning in terms of health risks is unclear. Of the 30 workers interviewed, 60% reported headaches and 80% reported having had acute upper respiratory symptoms from exposure to chlorine gas at some time during their employment. The blood sample results of the workers revealed that levels of PCDDs and PCDFs were well below levels reported in association with observable health effects. We compared the 30 workers' average blood levels for CHC using the World Health Organization-toxic equivalency quotient (WHO-TEQ 98) and found the average level in the 30 workers was higher than the level found in the general population. The workers' mean blood level of 2,3,7,8-TCDD was well below the level found to be associated with observable health effects in all published studies. However, 2,3,7,8-TCDD and PCBs are considered to be potential human carcinogens, and a no-risk threshold for human exposures does not exist. The blood HCB levels were higher than the general population, but studies have not found observable clinical health problems at these levels. NIOSH investigators conclude that biological and environmental monitoring results show evidence of work-related exposure to dioxins, dibenzofurans, PCBs, HCB, and chlorine. Because health-based biological exposure indices are not available for all of these compounds (even less information is available for the combination of exposures), health risk consequences are unclear. Industrial hygiene monitoring results found the areas of the plant with the greatest risks for HCB and PCB exposures were the reactor building and the electrolytics area. Reactor maintenance workers, particularly less experienced workers, had the highest exposures. Respirator use throughout the areas evaluated was observed to be sporadic at best. Sampling results found peak chlorine exposures at greater than 10 and up to 50 ppm, which represents a serious risk for unprotected workers. NIOSH investigators determined that an occupational health hazard due to exposures to chlorinated hydrocarbons including chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), chlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs); certain pesticides (e.g., hexachlorobenzene [HCB]); and chlorine existed for workers at U.S. Magnesium. Recommendations for controlling workplace exposures include identifying fugitive emissions and inadequately controlled processes, controlling emissions by engineering controls, enhancing local exhaust ventilation, improving housekeeping, and enforcing the use of personal protective equipment. Additional recommendations are included at the end of this report.
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(2005) Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, Montpelier, Vermont. (Click to open report) The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request in 1998 from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (VHCB) to evaluate worker exposures to lead-contaminated dust and the dispersion of dust to surroundings associated with exterior paint removal and surface preparation. The VHCB arranged a demonstration project that included three paint removal/surface preparation methods performed by a Vermont licensed lead abatement contractor. The objective was to determ... (Click to show more)The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request in 1998 from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (VHCB) to evaluate worker exposures to lead-contaminated dust and the dispersion of dust to surroundings associated with exterior paint removal and surface preparation. The VHCB arranged a demonstration project that included three paint removal/surface preparation methods performed by a Vermont licensed lead abatement contractor. The objective was to determine which method produced the least amount of dust exposure and dispersion. A NIOSH site visit was made in August 1998; the sampling results were provided to the VHCB in 1999. During the demonstration project workers removed exterior lead-based paint from clapboard siding of a single- family wood-frame house using three methods: dry scraping with manual sanding, wet scraping with manual sanding, and dry scraping with power sanding. NIOSH investigators conducted task-based sampling during four trials per method. Trials took place on different sections of the painted siding. Samples collected during each were for personal breathing zone (PBZ) and area airborne lead (PbA) (both NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods [NMAM] Method 7105), lead in paint, and lead in the dispersed surface dust (PbS). PbS samples were collected using stationary dustfall collectors, each containing a clean unfolded pre-moistened hand wipe (Wash n' Dri) centered in the tray. Eight PbS samples were collected in two rows on the ground at zero, 6, 10, and 20 feet perpendicular to the siding. The mean lead concentration measured in painted surfaces was 18.7% (range for section means 4.8%- 27%). The highest PBZ PbA exposures were measured during dry scraping/power sanding with an improperly functioning (80%-blocked) HEPA vacuum dust collection system: 820 and 1600 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3) as task-based time-weighted averages (TWA) over 1-2 hours. PBZ PbA concentrations during dry scraping/manual sanding were lower, ranging from 29 to 160 microg/m3, and dry scraping/power sanding with a properly functioning HEPA vacuum system and wet scraping/manual sanding produced the lowest PBZ PbA results, ranging from 3.5 to 53 microg/m3, task-based TWA. The area PbA results at 10 ft from the work surfaces were low, ranging from 0.16 to 8.2 microg/m3. For all three methods, mean concentrations of PbS measured on the ground at zero ft and 6 ft from the house foundation ranged from 1300 to 7,600,000 microg/f2. After statistically controlling for distance, method, paint Pb concentration and the percent paint removed from substrate in a linear model, distance was significantly associated with PbS (p-value= < 0.0001). NIOSH investigators found that worker exposures to lead during dry scraping/power sanding without functional dust collection controls were a health hazard. Worker exposures during wet scraping/manual sanding were relatively low, but could be a health hazard if the activity is performed 8 hours or more. After paint removal, high concentrations of lead in settled dust were found at distances of zero to 10 ft from the work surfaces. Recommendations included (1) use effective engineering controls on power sanding equipment to limit lead dust exposure and dust dispersion to surroundings; (2) use respirators to reduce worker exposure to lead dust during dry scraping and power sanding until engineering and/or administrative controls are effective in reducing exposures below the OSHA PEL; and (3) use good hygiene practices.
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(2004) American Pop Corn Company, Sioux City, Iowa. (Click to open report) In July 2001, NIOSH received a request for technical assistance from the Iowa Department of Public Health to evaluate the risk for lung disease in American Pop Corn Company workers exposed to butter flavorings. This request was made after NIOSH investigated severe fixed obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans in former workers of a microwave popcorn plant in Missouri and identified an association between occupational lung disease and exposure to butter flavoring vapors.... (Click to show more)In July 2001, NIOSH received a request for technical assistance from the Iowa Department of Public Health to evaluate the risk for lung disease in American Pop Corn Company workers exposed to butter flavorings. This request was made after NIOSH investigated severe fixed obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans in former workers of a microwave popcorn plant in Missouri and identified an association between occupational lung disease and exposure to butter flavoring vapors. NIOSH conducted a walk-through survey at the American Pop Corn Company plant in Sioux City, Iowa on September 26, 2001. Limited industrial hygiene air sampling on that day showed that air concentrations of diacetyl, a predominant butter flavoring chemical measured as a marker of butter flavoring exposure, were very low compared to levels that were associated with abnormal lung function at the Missouri (index) plant. The company reported that workers who handled flavorings had used full facepiece respirators with particulate filters and organic vapor cartridges since shortly after the microwave popcorn plant began operating in December 1988. In June 2002, the company informed NIOSH that one of its mixing room workers had been diagnosed with fixed obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans. NIOSH conducted a medical survey from July 22 through July 26, 2002, and an industrial hygiene survey from July 29 through August 1, 2002. The main findings from these surveys included: 1. The mixing room was isolated and ventilated separately from the packaging area; 2. All tanks of heated soybean oil and flavorings were located in the mixing room and had local exhaust ventilation; 3. Workers (mixers) measured flavorings in open containers in a separate area in the warehouse and then carried the flavorings into the mixing room and poured the flavorings into open tanks of heated soybean oil; 4. Area diacetyl air concentrations in the mixing room were 0.57 parts per million (ppm) parts air by volume when liquid and paste flavorings were in use on July 29 and were below the limit of detection of the sampling method when powder flavorings were in use on July 31 and August 1; 5. Personal diacetyl exposures for the mixers for the three days of sampling were 0.04, 0.004, and 0.005 ppm respectively; 6. Mixers' exposure to diacetyl increased to 80 to 120 ppm for several minutes while pouring liquid butter flavoring into a tank; 7. Six of 13 workers with experience as mixers had abnormal lung function (three with fixed obstruction and three with restriction); 8. The average percentage of time that workers reported using respirators when in the mixing room prior to June 2002 was 20 percent (workers usually did not wear respirators when handling flavorings in the warehouse); 9. The highest measured diacetyl air concentration in the packaging area was 0.03 ppm; 10. Apart from workers with mixing experience, the prevalence of abnormal lung function in microwave popcorn plant workers did not differ significantly from the prevalence in nonmicrowave popcorn plant workers, and was similar to the expected prevalence based on national general population surveys; and, 11. Unlike the index plant, risk for lung disease in workers who popped many dozens of bags of product in microwave ovens per shift was not identified in this plant (these workers popped fewer bags per shift than at the index plant). NIOSH conducted an industrial hygiene survey on September 17 and 18, 2003 to measure air concentrations of respirable and total dust during the handling of powdered flavorings. This survey showed that: 1. Air concentrations varied depending on the particular powdered flavoring being handled and the manner in which it was handled, and 2. Some of the airborne dust was of respirable size The findings from the NIOSH medical and industrial hygiene surveys at this plant show an apparent risk for lung disease in mixing room workers at much lower air concentrations of butter flavoring chemicals than those initially measured at the Missouri index plant. Lung disease risk was not identified in other areas of the plant apart from mixing. Recommendations for engineering controls, use of personal protective equipment, and medical surveillance for exposed workers are provided in this report.
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(2004) ConAgra Snack Foods, Marion, Ohio. (Click to open report) NIOSH has identified evidence of fixed obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans in workers exposed to airborne butter flavoring chemicals at several microwave popcorn plants. In 2002, NIOSH learned that a worker who had mixed oil and butter flavorings for microwave popcorn production at the ConAgra Snack Foods plant in Marion, Ohio, had been diagnosed with severe fixed obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans. During an initial visit to the pla... (Click to show more)NIOSH has identified evidence of fixed obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans in workers exposed to airborne butter flavoring chemicals at several microwave popcorn plants. In 2002, NIOSH learned that a worker who had mixed oil and butter flavorings for microwave popcorn production at the ConAgra Snack Foods plant in Marion, Ohio, had been diagnosed with severe fixed obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans. During an initial visit to the plant in January 2003, NIOSH identified production processes and work practices similar to those of other microwave popcorn plants. Specifically, workers handled many different butter flavorings in open containers and poured the flavorings into open tanks of heated soybean oil. The tanks did not have local exhaust ventilation and the workers did not use respiratory protection. Oil and flavoring mixing activities and all heated tanks were located in one room (slurry room) adjacent to the packaging line area, and the air pressure in this room was positive relative to the packaging line area. NIOSH proceeded to conduct a detailed health and environmental survey at this plant from March 3 to March 10, 2003, in order to characterize exposures and lung function in mixers and other workers. The main findings from this survey included: 1. The mean time weighted average diacetyl air concentration in the slurry room was 1.14 parts per million parts air (ppm). This air concentration is similar to those measured by NIOSH at two other microwave popcorn plants where mixers also developed fixed obstructive lung disease. 2. Three of 12 current slurry room workers were found to have airways obstruction on NIOSH spirometry tests. Two did not respond to bronchodilators, while one did respond but the forced expiratory volume in the first second of exhalation (FEV1) remained below normal. All three had normal diffusing capacity. These findings are consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans. 3. After adjustments to the slurry room ventilation by ConAgra, the slurry room was found to have negative air pressure relative to the packaging area. 4. The mean time weighted average diacetyl air concentration in the packaging area was 0.02 ppm. 5. Five workers in the packaging area had fixed obstruction on spirometry, normal diffusing capacity, and no history of work in the slurry room. All were smokers but were relatively young (average age 36), making smoking a less likely explanation for their obstruction. If packaging area air concentrations of flavoring chemicals were higher in the past when the slurry room was under positive pressure, it is possible that some packaging area workers developed airways obstruction as a result. 6. Two of 11 current quality assurance (QA) lab workers were found to have abnormal spirometry. One had obstruction that was unresponsive to bronchodilator and had a normal diffusing capacity. Another had restriction. Prior to the installation of an enclosure with exhaust ventilation for the microwave ovens, the average diacetyl air concentration in the QA lab at the ConAgra plant was 0.018 ppm, compared to 0.56 ppm in the QA lab at another plant where five of six QA workers were found to have airways obstruction. At the ConAgra plant and other microwave popcorn plants, the pattern of lung function test abnormalities in workers who regularly mix butter flavorings with heated soybean oil implies a risk for the development of fixed airways obstruction from inhalation of flavoring-related chemicals. Nearby packaging workers may also be at risk if flavoring chemicals or dust in the air of the slurry room contaminate the air in the packaging area. Recommendations for engineering controls, use of personal protective equipment, and medical surveillance for exposed workers are provided in this report.
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(2004) CPC Pasadena Plastics Complex, Pasadena, Texas. (Click to open report) On July 27, 2003 the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a Health Hazard Evaluation request from the Paper, Allied-Industrial, Chemical and Energy (PACE) Union expressing concerns about employee exposures to hexavalent chromium (CrVI) at the Chevron Phillips Chemical Company (CPC) Pasadena Plastics Complex, Pasadena, Texas. Chromium is used at the facility as a catalyst in the polyethylene production process. On September 3 and 4, 2003 NIOSH investigators toure... (Click to show more)On July 27, 2003 the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a Health Hazard Evaluation request from the Paper, Allied-Industrial, Chemical and Energy (PACE) Union expressing concerns about employee exposures to hexavalent chromium (CrVI) at the Chevron Phillips Chemical Company (CPC) Pasadena Plastics Complex, Pasadena, Texas. Chromium is used at the facility as a catalyst in the polyethylene production process. On September 3 and 4, 2003 NIOSH investigators toured the facility, reviewed records, and conducted confidential employee interviews. Due to the limited personal air sampling data available and the potential for employee exposures while replacing components and transferring catalyst, a more in-depth follow-up site visit which included additional confidential employee interviews, air sampling and surface wipe sampling for CrVI was conducted on October 20-24, 2003. Air sampling results were below all applicable occupational exposure limits. Wipe sample results were inconclusive due to the high concentration of CrVI found in the media blanks. NIOSH investigators concluded that no hazard from exposure to CrVI exists. Personal and area air sampling results for CrVI samples collected during this Health Hazard Evaluation were below applicable occupational exposure limits. Employees reported no symptoms related to chromium exposure. CPC Pasadena Plastics Complex has an adequate program to protect their employees from being overexposed to CrVI. Recommendations for improving the Chromium Catalyst Health and Hygiene Program are provided in this report.
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(2004) Felker Brothers Corporation, Marshfield, Wisconsin. (Click to open report) On December 23, 2002, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers regarding worker exposures to chromium and nickel compounds during the manufacture of high-quality, corrosive-resistant stainless steel products and fabricated piping systems at the two Felker Brothers Corporation facilities in Marshfield, Wisconsin. Union officials also expressed concerns about potential carcinogenic effects of these expos... (Click to show more)On December 23, 2002, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers regarding worker exposures to chromium and nickel compounds during the manufacture of high-quality, corrosive-resistant stainless steel products and fabricated piping systems at the two Felker Brothers Corporation facilities in Marshfield, Wisconsin. Union officials also expressed concerns about potential carcinogenic effects of these exposures. On February 5, 2003, NIOSH investigators made an initial site visit to gather information on stainless steel cutting, welding, grinding, and pickling processes. An in-depth industrial hygiene evaluation was conducted during May 28-29, 2003. In addition, a NIOSH physician conducted private medical interviews with 23 employees. Personal breathing zone (PBZ) air sampling was conducted on employees during stainless steel cutting, welding, grinding, and pickling operations. PBZ air samples were collected for elements (various metal compounds including nickel and chromium), total welding fumes, hexavalent chromium (Cr VI), ozone, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and inorganic acids. Carbon dioxide, temperature, and relative humidity were also measured. PBZ air samples indicated the potential for some workers to be exposed to nickel and Cr VI concentrations above the NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL) and to manganese above the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Value (TLV). The highest concentrations for nickel, manganese, and Cr VI occurred during operations in which workers welded inside large stainless steel pipes or welded fins on a large stainless steel pipe. Two detector tube results for ozone also indicated concentrations exceeding the NIOSH REL ceiling limit and the potential to exceed ACGIH, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) occupational criteria (if continuous welding occurs throughout the work shift) during welding operations inside stainless steel pipes. A total of 23 employees were interviewed. The average tenure at Felker Brothers was 24 years (range: 6 months to 38 years). Seventeen of the 23 employees reported ever having work-related or work-aggravated health problems, mainly upper respiratory/mucous membrane irritation or musculoskeletal injury. Seven of the 23 employees reported current upper respiratory or mucous membrane irritation. All reported that these symptoms were not severe enough to keep them from working. Welding fumes, acid vapors from the pickling tank, general plant dust, and general plant ventilation could contribute to these symptoms. Twelve (52%) of those interviewed were previous smokers, 6 (26%) had never smoked, and 5 (22%) were current smokers. There was no significant relationship between current mucous membrane irritation and smoking status. PBZ air samples indicated the potential for some workers to be exposed to nickel and Cr VI concentrations above the NIOSH REL and to manganese above the ACGIH TLV. Although the potential for exposure to nickel and chromium exists, at the time of our evaluation, the types of cancers linked to exposure to these substances have not been reported among current or former employees of Felker Brothers. Welding fumes, acid vapors from the pickling tank, general plant dust, and general plant ventilation could contribute to irritant symptoms reported by some workers. Engineering controls (i.e., local exhaust ventilation) should be used in areas where sample results indicated exposures exceeding applicable occupational criteria. Other recommendations to reduce worker exposures are provided in the report.
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(2004) Navajo Agricultural Products Industry, Farmington, New Mexico. (Click to open report) On October 1, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a management request to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at Navajo Agricultural Products Industry (NAPI), in Farmington, New Mexico. The request was to evaluate noise exposures during potato processing and packaging (Fresh Pack area), corn storage and dispensing (Granary), and equipment maintenance and other mechanical tasks at the Mechanic Shop. During the course of the investigation, NIOSH ... (Click to show more)On October 1, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a management request to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at Navajo Agricultural Products Industry (NAPI), in Farmington, New Mexico. The request was to evaluate noise exposures during potato processing and packaging (Fresh Pack area), corn storage and dispensing (Granary), and equipment maintenance and other mechanical tasks at the Mechanic Shop. During the course of the investigation, NIOSH was also requested to measure noise exposure during the manufacture of alfalfa pellets. During the NIOSH visit, the granary was not operating and was not monitored. Potential ergonomic hazards were identified during the packaging of potatoes in the Fresh Pack area. Between October 27 and 30, 2003, NIOSH investigators conducted a site visit at NAPI. Following a meeting on October 27, 2003, with NAPI's safety officers, NIOSH investigators toured the facility. On October 28 and 29, 2003, NIOSH measured noise exposure to 18 employees in the Fresh Pack area, where potatoes are unloaded from a truck, washed, sorted, and packaged for shipment. On October 30, 2003, NIOSH investigators measured noise exposure on two employees during the manufacture of alfalfa pellets, and on two mechanics from the mechanic shop. The noise exposure assessment revealed that, of the 22 employees monitored, 6 attained or exceeded the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL). Four of these employees were from the Fresh Pack area, and one each from the alfalfa pellet-mill operation, and the mechanic shop. Two of the six (bagger and pellet mill operator) also exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Action Limit (AL). NAPI has a well-managed hearing conservation program for employees in the Fresh pack area. Employees were observed wearing foam ear plugs correctly and consistently. We observed ergonomic-related issues during the packaging of potatoes and potential exposure to mold during the manufacture of alfalfa pellets. There is a potential for excessive noise exposure in the Fresh Pack area, the alfalfa-pellet manufacturing area, and the mechanic shop. Twenty-seven percent of the employees who were monitored for noise attained or exceeded the NIOSH REL. In addition, there is an ergonomic hazard during the packaging of potatoes in the Fresh Pack area and a potential for respiratory hazards during the manufacture of alfalfa pellets. Recommendations on these issues are included in this report.
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(2004) NIOSH evaluation of air sampling methodologies for Bacillus anthracis in a United States Postal Service Processing and Distribution Center, Trenton, New Jersey. (Click to open report) On January 16, 2002, NIOSH received a request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) from the United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding Bacillus anthracis (B. anthracis) contamination in the Trenton Processing and Distribution Center (TPDC) located in Trenton, New Jersey. The USPS requested assistance in determining the most appropriate method(s) of air sampling for B. anthracis spores. In response to this request, NIOSH investigators conducted an evaluation of sampling methods at the TPDC on ... (Click to show more)On January 16, 2002, NIOSH received a request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) from the United States Postal Service (USPS) regarding Bacillus anthracis (B. anthracis) contamination in the Trenton Processing and Distribution Center (TPDC) located in Trenton, New Jersey. The USPS requested assistance in determining the most appropriate method(s) of air sampling for B. anthracis spores. In response to this request, NIOSH investigators conducted an evaluation of sampling methods at the TPDC on February 4-7, 2002. NIOSH investigators collected 106 surface wipe samples on the jogger/sorter, feeder, reader, and all final stacker (bin) sections of a Delivery Bar Code Sorter (DBCS), 130 general area (GA) air samples using Andersen samplers with sheep blood agar, 24 GA air samples using mixed-cellulose ester filter media, 24 GA air samples using polytetrafluoroethylene filter media, 72 GA air samples using gelatin filter media, and 6 GA air samples using a dry filter unit with polyester felt filter media. Wipe and air samples were collected before and after operating the DBCS. Operating the DBCS provided a means of re-aerosolization of spores resulting in enhanced capture potential for air sampling media. All of the wipe samples were positive for B. anthracis. The initial analysis of air samples (using 10% of the sample extract) collected before DBCS operation resulted in no detectable B. anthracis colonies (negative sample), except for some Andersen samples. All of the negative filter samples were re-analyzed using the remaining sample, which resulted in each type of filter media having one or more false negative samples. All air sample media had detectable B. anthracis colonies subsequent to DBCS operation. Based on the surface wipe and air sample data, NIOSH investigators conclude the following: (1) walking and light work may be sufficient to re-aerosolize B. anthracis spores; (2) all air sampling methods used were capable of collecting B. anthracis spores, albeit some more efficiently than others; (3) not plating the entire sample during analysis may result in false negative sample results; (4) the Andersen sampling method seems to be the most sensitive for B. anthracis spore collection; (5) because of its high flow rate the dry filter unit may have reduced the number of available spores for collection; (6) the dry filter unit may be the least sensitive when considering the volume of air passing through the sampler. Further laboratory and field evaluation of these and other methods is necessary to understand their practical uses and limitations for collection of B. anthracis in contaminated facilities.
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(2004) PCC Schlosser, Redmond, Oregon. (Click to open report) In February 2003, employees at PCC Schlosser, a titanium investment casting plant in Redmond, Oregon, sent the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) a confidential request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) to investigate exposures to metals in their workplace. Employees in the finishing area reported that liver and kidney failure or bad liver function levels and digestive tract problems were related to workplace exposures to metals including titanium, antimony, vanadiu... (Click to show more)In February 2003, employees at PCC Schlosser, a titanium investment casting plant in Redmond, Oregon, sent the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) a confidential request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) to investigate exposures to metals in their workplace. Employees in the finishing area reported that liver and kidney failure or bad liver function levels and digestive tract problems were related to workplace exposures to metals including titanium, antimony, vanadium, and aluminum. Employees reported that they sent hair samples to a private laboratory for analysis and results indicated the presence of a variety of metals that employees believed were related to occupational exposures. Some employees reported that medical tests by their physicians also suggested they were overexposed to certain metals in their workplace. Full-shift, personal breathing sampling was conducted on nine employees working in the finishing and cut-off areas of the plant. Samples were collected for respirable dust (particulates not otherwise regulated), airborne elements and vanadium pentoxide wipe samples were collected on hands and surfaces. Medical records provided by one employee and hair analysis reports provided by five employees were reviewed. Employee job tasks included torch cutting, operating a pneumatic hammer and a water cannon, and finishing cast parts using rotary hand tools. The majority of exposures measured during this HHE were below Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limits (PELs), but three samples exceeded these limits. One air sample collected in the pneumatic hammer area exceeded the PEL for yttrium, and two samples (both collected from the same employee while torch cutting) exceeded Oregon OSHA's PELs for respirable dusts and respirable vanadium pentoxide. Respirable dust exposures ranged from 0.2 milligrams per cubic meter of air (mg/m 3 ) to 5.9 mg/m3 , compared to the PEL of 5 mg/m3 . Yttrium exposures ranged up to 1.14 mg/m 3 , compared to the PEL of 1 mg/m3 . Respirable vanadium pentoxide exposures ranged up 0.123 mg/m3 , compared to the PEL of 0.05 mg/m3 . The workplace exposures that were found to exceed the Oregon OSHA PELS were related to lack of effective ventilation controls in the cut-off area. The medical record provided by one employee showed nonspecific liver function abnormalities that could not be attributed to workplace exposures. The five hair analysis reports were not conclusive because elemental hair analysis is not currently considered to be a standard medical test and the results of such testing cannot be directly related to specific exposures. Two PCC Schlosser employees working in the cut-off area of the plant had workplace exposures to respirable dusts, respirable vanadium pentoxide, and to the element yttrium in excess of the Oregon OSHA PELs. Recommendations are included in this report to control employee exposures by installing effective local exhaust ventilation to control exposures to torch fume (the source of the respirable dust and vanadium pentoxide) at the cut-off area, and to yttrium at the pneumatic hammer station. Until effective engineering controls are in place, employees working in the cut-off area should continue to wear N-95 or greater efficiency (N-99 or N-100) filtering face-piece respirators or elastomeric half-face respirators with P-100 cartridges to protect them against exposures to torch fume and metal-containing dusts. PCC Schlosser management should insure that employees do not have facial hair that comes in contact with the sealing surface of the respirator. Employees should carefully wash their hands before breaks and lunch and before leaving the plant to remove metal dusts that may be on their hands.
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