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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
(2004) Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation, Missoula, Montana. (Click to open report) In March 2001, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for technical assistance (HETA 2001-0209) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding dermatitis among employees at Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation ("Smurfit"), a paper-production plant in Missoula, Montana. During an OSHA inspection at the plant, the OSHA inspector learned that over 60 employees had experienced a "skin ailment" over the previous two years. A NIOSH ... (Click to show more)In March 2001, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for technical assistance (HETA 2001-0209) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding dermatitis among employees at Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation ("Smurfit"), a paper-production plant in Missoula, Montana. During an OSHA inspection at the plant, the OSHA inspector learned that over 60 employees had experienced a "skin ailment" over the previous two years. A NIOSH site visit was conducted in April 2001 to assist OSHA in determining the role of occupational exposures in the skin diseases. At that time, 14 of 25 employees interviewed and examined had rashes; at least nine of these appeared consistent with occupational contact dermatitis. HETA 2001-0209 was closed with a letter to OSHA (Appendix A) on July 11, 2001, concluding that there was evidence of work-related dermatitis among Smurfit workers. On June 13, 2001, NIOSH received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Paper, Allied Industrial, Chemical and Energy Workers Local 8-0885 to further evaluate specific exposures at the Smurfit paper mill to determine the source of the dermatitis. To assess workers' exposures, bulk samples of pulp, paper, and white-water were collected from various locations throughout the paper manufacturing process. Samples were analyzed for various chemicals (biocide and naturally occurring compounds), metals, and biological organisms (mold/fungi and bacteria) that could possibly account for the rash. A self-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on demographics, skin problems, job tasks, work history, and the work environment for all employees. Workers who indicated they had a rash on the day they completed the questionnaire and agreed to have their skin examined were examined by the NIOSH dermatologist. Three hundred fifty-four out of four hundred seven employees (89%) completed the questionnaire. Forty-three workers fit the case definition of having a chronic rash (i.e., having a high recurrence or continual rash). Forty workers fit the case definition of having work-related current rashes which were clinically consistent with either dermatitis and/or folliculitis. The questionnaire and skin examinations did not reveal a single type of skin problem but rather a variety of problems. Analysis of the questionnaire data showed a weak but statistically significant association between chronic rash and not always laundering work clothes (prevalence ratio 2.0 [confidence interval1.1-3.8]) and washing hands more than four times per day (prevalence ratio 1.9 [confidence interval1.1-3.2]). Most areas of the plant had workers with chronic rash, which was not associated with any specific area of the plant. There was a statistically significant association of a previous history of eczema and chronic rash (prevalence ratio 4.4 [confidence interval 2.5 to 7.9]) although the number of workers with previous eczema was relatively small. Chemical and metal analysis of the bulk materials did not identify any single compound in any substantial amount which we suspect would account for the reported dermal ailments. Mostly, trace amounts of typical biocide by-products and natural occurring compounds (e.g., pinene and resin acids) were found. Metals found in the pulp, paper, and white-water samples were found in the source water in similar concentrations and not of concern regarding skin problems. Results of the microbial analyses were unremarkable except in one sample, which contained Pseudomonas aeruginosa a secondary infectious agent of the skin. Coliforms, however, were present in some samples which indicate that pathogens (some are associated with skin ailments) may be present in the pulp even though they were not found in the NIOSH evaluation. In addition, during the initial site visit, a potential heat stress problem was identified in the rewinder area which could lead to excessive sweating and ultimately cause skin damage. Also, glass fibers were found in two bulk samples collected from the same area which is associated with dermatitis. A health hazard was identified at the Smurfit pulp and paper plant in Missoula, Montana. Approximately 11% of the workers had dermatitis or folliculitis. A single definitive etiologic agent was not identified. However, exposure to pulp, white-water, and/or finished paper alone or in combination with resin acids, dust, biocides, glass fibers, and heat may play a role in the skin problems. Based on the information gathered during multiple site visits, we recommend decreasing workers= exposures to the pulp and white-water. Controls such as elimination of potential sources of pathogens, administrative changes, and personal protective equipment are recommended.
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(2004) Teletech, Morgantown, West Virginia. (Click to open report) The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential request from employees of Teletech in Morgantown, West Virginia in which employees expressed concerns about the air quality in the building and the possibility that contaminants might be causing health effects experienced by some of the employees. Primary health concerns were: frequent sinus infections, respiratory infections, indoor allergies of unknown origin, hives, and skin rashes. Listed exposures in... (Click to show more)The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential request from employees of Teletech in Morgantown, West Virginia in which employees expressed concerns about the air quality in the building and the possibility that contaminants might be causing health effects experienced by some of the employees. Primary health concerns were: frequent sinus infections, respiratory infections, indoor allergies of unknown origin, hives, and skin rashes. Listed exposures included air fresheners, dirty air ducts and vents, inadequate fresh air, water leaks in restrooms that appeared to be from plumbing inside walls, and other airborne irritants. The NIOSH response consisted of two site visits. The first site visit on April 8th, 2004 allowed the industrial hygienists to visually inspect the premises and interview the building management. Water incursion in a bathroom was observed during the site visit with the water appearing to be clean water from an unknown source. The second site visit was conducted on May 13th, 2004 and included a similar visual inspection of the interior spaces along with the heating and ventilation (HVAC) system and the roof. The water incursion in the bathroom was known to be sporadic and management believed that the water originated from a natural spring located beneath the building. The second visit also included real-time monitoring of temperature, relative humidity, and concentrations of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and airborne particles in several areas of the building and outdoors. Visual inspection found the building be generally clean and well maintained. The source of water incursion was in the process of being identified and corrected. Real-time measurements were within the currently established values for appropriate building air quality. The exception was carbon dioxide concentrations in an area of the building where one HVAC unit was not operating during the visit. Carbon dioxide concentrations in that area were somewhat elevated and might indicate that the HVAC system is not be entirely adequate for diluting and mixing the air in the building. However, the overall appearance of the building and the results of the real-time monitoring did not identify any items that required immediate correction. NIOSH conducted two site visits to the Teletech call center in Morgantown, West Virginia to address employee concerns about contamination of the indoor air and health effects they were experiencing. An area of water incursion was found but no signs of mold or excessive dampness were observed. Some measurements indicated that fresh air supply and overall air mixing might not be adequate but not to the extent that employee health effects could be attributed to these findings.
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(2004) Transportation Security Administration, Washington-Dulles International Airport, Dulles, Virginia. (Click to open report) On January 21, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at the Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Dulles, Virginia. The HHE request concerned health hazards from exposure to contaminants found in exhaust emissions of tug and jet engines and noise from tugs, jets, conveyors, and baggage carousels in the checked baggage screening area. Reported health... (Click to show more)On January 21, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at the Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Dulles, Virginia. The HHE request concerned health hazards from exposure to contaminants found in exhaust emissions of tug and jet engines and noise from tugs, jets, conveyors, and baggage carousels in the checked baggage screening area. Reported health problems included respiratory distress, dizziness, possible hearing loss, and headaches. On July 12-13, 2004, NIOSH investigators collected ambient air and personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples for carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), nitric oxide (NO), diesel exhaust particulate (measured as elemental carbon [EC]), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Full-shift personal noise monitoring was also conducted. Concentrations of EC, a surrogate for diesel exhaust, ranged from 3.2 to 26 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3). There is no NIOSH evaluation criterion for EC; the California Department of Health Services recommends keeping levels below 20 microg/m3. PBZ concentrations of NO2 and NO ranged from trace (defined as between 0.04 and 0.20 parts per million [ppm]) to 0.38 ppm. PBZ exposure for CO ranged from 1 to 8 ppm (full-shift Time-Weighted Average [TWA]) and from 1 to 19 ppm (15-minute short-term exposures). The dominant VOCs were isopropyl alcohol, toluene, and low molecular weight hydrocarbons. All were found at very low levels. Noise levels for 4 of 16 employees monitored (3 in West baggage, 1 in Southeast baggage) exceeded the NIOSH REL for instituting a hearing conservation program. Other employees surveyed did not have excessive noise exposures that would increase their risk for occupational noise-induced hearing loss. The NIOSH investigators determined that a hazard does not exist from exposure to EC, CO, CO2, NO2, NO, or VOCs. On average, none of the chemicals were detected at concentrations exceeding occupational exposure limits at the time of the NIOSH visit. Some tug emissions were elevated when compared to ambient levels and could contribute to an increase in air contaminants in some baggage areas. There was little evidence of a serious noise problem. Recommendations for maintaining the air quality and further reducing noise exposures are provided in the Recommendations Section of this report.
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(2004) Transportation Security Administration-Miami International Airport, Miami, Florida. (Click to open report) On February 20, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at the Miami International Airport in Miami, Florida. The HHE request concerned potential health hazards from exposure to contaminants found in exhaust emissions of tug and jet engines and noise from tugs, jets, conveyor systems, and baggage carousels in the checked baggage screening area. Reported health p... (Click to show more)On February 20, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at the Miami International Airport in Miami, Florida. The HHE request concerned potential health hazards from exposure to contaminants found in exhaust emissions of tug and jet engines and noise from tugs, jets, conveyor systems, and baggage carousels in the checked baggage screening area. Reported health problems included headaches, dizziness, and respiratory distress. An initial site visit was made on March 25, 2004; on June 5-6, 2004, NIOSH investigators conducted area and personal breathing zone (PBZ) air sampling for carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), nitric oxide (NO), diesel exhaust particulate (measured as elemental carbon [EC]), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Full-shift personal noise monitoring was also conducted. Concentrations of EC, a surrogate for diesel exhaust, ranged from 5.9 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3) to 19.2 microg/m3. No evaluation criteria exist for EC alone, although the California Department of Health Services recommends keeping levels below 20 microg/m3. PBZ concentrations of NO2 determined using sorbent tubes ranged from <0.1 part per million (ppm) to 0.12 ppm and PBZ concentrations of NO ranged from <0.05 ppm to 0.10 ppm. These results were very similar to the NO2 results obtained from real-time personal exposure monitors; full-shift time-weighted average (TWA) exposures were all non-detectable and 15-minute short-term exposures ranged from 0.1 ppm to 0.4 ppm. One employee's instantaneous exposure of 4.9 ppm approached the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ceiling limit of 5 ppm. All personal full-shift TWA exposures for CO ranged from 2 ppm to 7 ppm and 15-minute short-term exposures ranged from 5 ppm to 32 ppm. One employee working at the concourse C International to International (CITI) bag area measured an instantaneous peak exposure of 333 ppm. This employee's TWA and short-term exposure limit (STEL) exposures were 7 ppm and 32 ppm respectively. The employee's exposure to CO exceeded the NIOSH Ceiling limit of 200 ppm. VOCs were identified via thermal desorption tubes and quantified via charcoal tubes. One thermal desorption sample collected in Ramp A had significantly more VOC's present than any other sample. Only low levels of any contaminants were detected on all other samples. Compounds identified were isopropanol, benzene, ethyl benzene, xylenes, toluene, isooctane, and trimethyl benzenes. Charcoal tube analysis found low levels of isopropyl alcohol and toluene. Airborne concentrations of benzene, ethyl benzene, xylenes, isooctane, and total hydrocarbons were either not detected or were below the laboratory limit of quantification. The OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for noise of 90 A-weighted decibels (dBA) and the OSHA Action Level [85 dBA] were not exceeded in any of the 13 dosimeter samples. There were four instances where the 8-hr TWA exposures exceeded the NIOSH criterion, once on Saturday in area F2 and three times on Sunday in the EITI area (1) and at Area 62 (2). OSHA previously performed a noise survey in Area 62 and found 8-hr TWA levels of 88 dBA. These results were not confirmed in the NIOSH evaluation. The NIOSH investigators determined that a hazard does not exist from exposure to EC, CO, CO2, NO2, NO, or VOCs. The sampling results indicate that none of the chemicals were detected at concentrations exceeding occupational exposure limits. Therefore, an inhalation hazard to those compounds did not exist at the time of the NIOSH visit. The measured noise levels found little evidence of a serious noise problem. Recommendations for maintaining the air quality and reducing employees' noise exposures are provided in the Recommendations Section of this report
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(2004) Transportation Security Administration-Palm Beach International Airport, West Palm Beach, Florida. (Click to open report) On February 6, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at the Palm Beach International Airport in West Palm Beach, Florida. The HHE request concerned health hazards from exposure to contaminants found in exhaust emissions of tug and jet engines and noise from tugs, jets, conveyor systems, and baggage carousels in the checked baggage screening area. The request a... (Click to show more)On February 6, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at the Palm Beach International Airport in West Palm Beach, Florida. The HHE request concerned health hazards from exposure to contaminants found in exhaust emissions of tug and jet engines and noise from tugs, jets, conveyor systems, and baggage carousels in the checked baggage screening area. The request also described ergonomic hazards and heat stress as potential workplace hazards. These latter hazards will be addressed in a separate evaluation. Reported health problems included allergies, respiratory distress, repetitive stress injuries, back injuries, possible hearing loss, and dehydration due to heat. An initial site visit was made on March 24, 2004. On April 17-18, 2004, NIOSH investigators conducted area and personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples for carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), nitric oxide (NO), diesel exhaust particulate (measured as elemental carbon [EC]), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Full-shift personal noise monitoring was also conducted. Concentrations of EC, a surrogate for diesel exhaust, ranged from below the minimum detectable concentration (MDC) to 11.2 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3). There is no NIOSH evaluation criteria for EC, although the California Department of Health Services recommends keeping levels below 20 microg/m3. PBZ concentrations of NO2 and NO were below the limit of detection of 2 microg/sample. Similar nondetectable NO2 results were obtained from real time personal exposure monitors (full-shift and 15-minute short-term exposures). All but one PBZ exposure for CO ranged from non-detected to 1 part per million (ppm) (full-shift Time-Weighted Average [TWA]) and from non-detected to 8 ppm (15-minute short-term exposures). One employee working at Explosive Detection System (EDS) machine 6 measured an instantaneous peak exposure of 1150 ppm on the first day of sampling. This employee's TWA and short-term exposures were 10 ppm and 284 ppm respectively. VOCs were identified via thermal desorption tubes and quantified via charcoal tubes. The dominant compounds identified were isopropyl alcohol, acetone, benzene, toluene, and xylenes. Charcoal tube analysis found trace levels of acetone and low levels of isopropyl alcohol. Airborne concentrations of benzene, toluene, xylenes, and total hydrocarbons were below their respective MDCs. The OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for noise of 90 A-weighted decibels [dB(A)] was not exceeded in any of the 15 dosimeter samples. There was, however, one instance in the Lane 1 area where the OSHA Action Level (AL) was greater than 50% and two instances (Lane 1 and Lane 7) where the NIOSH criterion exceeded 100%. Area spectral noise measurements indicated that at each of the nine EDS baggage screening machines there is a great deal of lower frequency (<250 Hz) sound energy in the area, and that the output side of the machine is a few decibels greater than the input side of the machine. However, none of the A-weighted values approach the NIOSH criterion of 85 dBA. The NIOSH investigators determined that a hazard does not exist from exposure to EC, CO, CO2, NO2, NO or VOCs. The sampling results indicate that none of the chemicals were detected at concentrations exceeding occupational exposure limits. Therefore, an inhalation hazard to those compounds did not exist at the time of the NIOSH visit. The measured noise levels provide little evidence of a serious noise problem. Recommendations for maintaining the air quality and further reducing noise exposures are provided in the Recommendations Section of this report.
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(2004) U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Canine Enforcement Training Center, Front Royal, Virginia. (Click to open report) The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Canine Enforcement Training Center (CETC) in Front Royal, Virginia. The request concerned potential exposures from the preparation of pseudo narcotics. NIOSH conducted an initial site visit on November 12 - 14, 2003, and follow up visits on March 1 and 4, 2004. Preparation of pseudo odors includes the mixing of acetic acid, benzalde... (Click to show more)The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Canine Enforcement Training Center (CETC) in Front Royal, Virginia. The request concerned potential exposures from the preparation of pseudo narcotics. NIOSH conducted an initial site visit on November 12 - 14, 2003, and follow up visits on March 1 and 4, 2004. Preparation of pseudo odors includes the mixing of acetic acid, benzaldehyde, methyl benzoate, piperonal, cab-o-sil, and microcrystalline cellulose. Seven personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples were collected for total particulates on workers in the mix room. Nine general area (GA) air samples were collected for total particulates in the mix and package rooms. Two PBZ air samples were collected for acetic acid on workers in the mix room and four GA air samples were collected in the mix and package room. Three GA air samples were collected for benzaldehyde and piperonal and four GA air samples for methyl benzoate in the mix room. The particulates contained cab-o-sil and microcrystalline cellulose. All of the PBZ air samples collected for total particulates on workers in the mix room exceeded the OSHA PEL for particulates not otherwise classified (PNOC) and the ACGIH TLV for cellulose. Concentrations ranged from 21 to 110 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) with an average of 43 mg/m3. Workers lean forward and place their heads inside drums, scooping out powder near the bottom. This accounts for the high exposure to airborne dust. One of two PBZ air samples collected for acetic acid on workers in the mix room exceeded the NIOSH REL, OSHA PEL, and ACGIH TLV. This sample was collected on the worker who measures acetic acid. All other air samples collected were below relevant evaluation criteria. There is a potential for excessive particulate and acetic acid exposure in the mix room of the pseudo drug building. Based on a description of other work activities not directly observed, there is a potential for respiratory hazards during the chopping of marijuana bales. Recommendations such as ventilation improvements, modified work practices, and use of respiratory protection are included in this report.
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(2004) U.S. Department of Interior, Denver, CO. (Click to open report) In June 2003, the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) asked NIOSH to evaluate exposure to airborne crystalline silica among rock drilling workers at Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in north-central Colorado. Although employees had not reported any symptoms related to rock drilling, DOI management wanted documentation of worker exposure along with recommendations on the use of respiratory protection during the use of two types of portable gas-powered rock drills. The park employs 45 trail worke... (Click to show more)In June 2003, the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) asked NIOSH to evaluate exposure to airborne crystalline silica among rock drilling workers at Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in north-central Colorado. Although employees had not reported any symptoms related to rock drilling, DOI management wanted documentation of worker exposure along with recommendations on the use of respiratory protection during the use of two types of portable gas-powered rock drills. The park employs 45 trail workers to build new hiking trails and to maintain 360 miles of existing trails. Holes are drilled into large rocks so they can be split and used as steps for steep sections of trail. Crews of five or six workers per project use either a 75-pound drill or a 30-pound drill for splitting rocks. The larger drill forces compressed air through the drill shank as a means of keeping the drill hole free of dust. Water can not be used as a dust suppression method because it causes the drill bit to bind in the rock. The smaller drill does not have an air-flushing mechanism and water may be applied to the drill holes. The large drill can drill holes about four times faster than the small drill. Workers wear powered air-purifying respirators when using the large rock drill, since few other control options are available in remote areas. Exposure to airborne total dust, respirable dust, respirable crystalline silica (quartz and crystobalite), and carbon monoxide (CO) was evaluated for five workers during three days of sampling with maximum wind conditions of three miles per hour. Two bulk samples of rock dust contained 15% and 23% quartz. No crystobalite was found in any of the air or bulk samples. When workers used the large drill, maximum 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) air concentrations were as follows: airborne total dust, 4.8 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3 ); respirable dust, 0.63 mg/m3 ; and respirable quartz, 130 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3 ). These results indicate that overexposure to quartz occurs if workers use the large drill without respiratory protection. All other measured contaminants were below recommended evaluation criteria. Using the small drill, 8-hour TWA exposure to total dust ranged up to 0.18 mg/m3 , respirable dust ranged up to 0.12 mg/m3 , and exposure to respirable quartz was non-detectable (< 30 microg/m3 ) during both wet and dry drilling. Low exposure to CO (up to 9 parts per million, 8-hour TWA) was found during the use of both drills. Overexposure to crystalline silica occurs when the large air-flushing, gas-powered rock drill is used on quartz-containing rock. Recommendations are provided to minimize exposure through personal hygiene, training, respiratory protection, and medical monitoring.
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(2003) Bemis, West Hazelton, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) On December 9, 2002, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the Graphics Communications International Union to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at Bemis, in West Hazelton, Pennsylvania. Employees were concerned that work conditions in the bag, press, and extrusion departments were contributing to sinus infections, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, and eye irritation. On March 24-25, 2003, NIOSH investigators conducted a site visit at Bemi... (Click to show more)On December 9, 2002, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the Graphics Communications International Union to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at Bemis, in West Hazelton, Pennsylvania. Employees were concerned that work conditions in the bag, press, and extrusion departments were contributing to sinus infections, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, and eye irritation. On March 24-25, 2003, NIOSH investigators conducted a site visit at Bemis. Following an opening conference with management and union representatives, NIOSH investigators toured the facility. On March 25, personal and area air sampling was conducted for ozone and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the extrusion department, VOCs in the press department, and VOCs, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein, and particulates in the bag department. Twenty one employees were interviewed from all areas of the plant. Every tenth employee was selected from a list of 290 employees who worked the day shift. Interviews covered employees' work history, past medical history, smoking history, and current symptoms, complaints, and concerns. The concentration of formaldehyde ranged from 0.04 to 0.09 parts per million (ppm). This exceeds the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) of 0.016 ppm, but is below the Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) and American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' (ACGIH) criteria. Concentrations of acrolein, acetaldehyde, ethanol, isopropanol, 1-propanol, ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, butyl acetate, and toluene were below all recommended and regulatory criteria. Particle size characterization indicated that 99.9% of the particles were in the respirable range, with a concentration of 0.32 milligram/cubic meter (mg/m3). This is below the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 5 mg/m3 and the ACGIH's recommended value of 3 mg/m3 for respirable particulates. A majority (57%) of interviewed employees reported upper respiratory or mucous membrane irritation, which they associated with smoke in the bag department. The haze is a result of emissions during the bag manufacturing process. Chemicals used in the manufacturing process of the bags, such as formaldehyde, acrolein, acetaldehyde and VOCs, are likely to be found in the haze. It is possible that low levels of exposure to these chemicals can result in irritative effects. Air sampling results indicate the presence of a variety of chemical substances in the press, bag, and extrusion departments. However, quantitative measurements of most of these substances indicate that airborne concentrations are below those believed to result in chronic health effects, though some irritative symptoms might occur with minimal exposure. The airborne concentration of formaldehyde exceeded the NIOSH REL. Recommendations are included in this report to further improve the air quality in the bag department by introducing dilution ventilation in addition to the local exhaust ventilation currently in place. Following the ventilation changes, the concentrations of formaldehyde and particulates should be monitored again.
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(2003) Blue Ribbon Packing, Indianapolis, Indiana. (Click to open report) In May 2002, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IOSHA) to evaluate Blue Ribbon Packing, a tomato-packing plant in Indianapolis, Indiana. Employees handling tomatoes and other produce and assembling ink-coated cardboard trays were reported to have skin lesions. NIOSH investigators made two visits to the facility in August 2002. On the first visit, NIOSH investigators noted that the... (Click to show more)In May 2002, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IOSHA) to evaluate Blue Ribbon Packing, a tomato-packing plant in Indianapolis, Indiana. Employees handling tomatoes and other produce and assembling ink-coated cardboard trays were reported to have skin lesions. NIOSH investigators made two visits to the facility in August 2002. On the first visit, NIOSH investigators noted that the skin and gloves of employees assembling cardboard trays were coated with pigment from the cardboard, and that the gloves were torn at the fingertips. An ink-coated cardboard sheet from the plant, analyzed for 30 elements (metals) by inductively coupled plasma-atomic absorption, was found to contain sodium, magnesium, potassium, copper, and iron. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry showed di(propyleneglycol) propyl ether to be the dominant organic compound in the cardboard ink. A bulk sample of dust from a bundle of unfolded cardboard, examined by polarized light microscopy, contained 85% fibrous material, mostly sub-angular to sub-rounded in shape. On the second visit, NIOSH investigators conducted confidential employee interviews and skin examinations. Forty (93%) of the forty-three eligible employees participated in the survey. Seventeen (42.5%) of the participating employees reported skin lesions. According to the NIOSH dermatologist's assessment, four (23.5%) of the participants reporting skin lesions had visible lesions that were possibly caused by work and another four (23.5%) had lesions that were possibly aggravated by work. Their lesions included folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles), erythema (redness of the skin), and papules or plaques (raised skin lesions) on the face, neck, upper chest or back, arms, or hand. Participants who had skin lesions that were not related to work had acne, milia, or warts. Five participants who did not have work-related skin lesions reported irritation, itching, discoloration, or rash that occurred during or shortly after work. Some of them were able to identify a specific produce (e.g., cilantro) as the cause of the symptom. Additionally, the confidential employee interviews revealed symptoms consistent with temporary hearing loss related to noise from the cardboard baler. NIOSH investigators recommended that the company evaluate this potential health hazard. The dust, pigments, and organic compounds from coated cardboard; acidic tomato juice and pulp; allergy-causing produce such as cilantro; and alcohols in the hand sanitizer that were found at the plant are potential health hazards that can affect the skin. Thirteen (32.5%) of the employees surveyed had skin symptoms or visible skin lesions that were possibly caused by or aggravated by these types of work exposures. Recommendations to prevent skin symptoms and lesions are provided in this report.
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(2003) ChemDesign Corporation, Fitchburg, Massachusetts. (Click to open report) On December 13, 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for Technical Assistance (TA) from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Occupational Health Surveillance Program (OHSP). OHSP asked NIOSH to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at ChemDesign Corporation in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, to investigate a cluster of eight occupational asthma cases which had been reported to OHSP. The chemicals associated with the cases were identifi... (Click to show more)On December 13, 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for Technical Assistance (TA) from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Occupational Health Surveillance Program (OHSP). OHSP asked NIOSH to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at ChemDesign Corporation in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, to investigate a cluster of eight occupational asthma cases which had been reported to OHSP. The chemicals associated with the cases were identified as AMT (3-amino-5-mercapto-1,2,4-triazole) and DE-498 (Flumetsulam). AMT was raw material used in the production of DE-498 and AMT-based product two (AMTBP2). In response to the request, NIOSH investigators, accompanied by an OHSP industrial hygienist, conducted an initial site visit to ChemDesign on February 1-3, 2000. The NIOSH industrial hygienist returned on June 5-9 to conduct air sampling at four routine operations where employees could be exposed to AMT or DE-498: (1) charging AMT powder into a reactor vessel, (2) discharging DE-498 "wet cake" from a centrifuge, (3) charging DE-498 into the dryer, and (4) discharging DE-498 from the dryer. On July 6-7, the NIOSH Project Officer and medical team visited ChemDesign to recruit workers for participation in a medical survey. On June 12-16, the team conducted a medical evaluation of volunteer production workers. The onsite medical evaluation consisted of a questionnaire interview, lung function testing, and a blood sample collection. A methacholine challenge test was administered at Burbank Hospital in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. In August 2000, NIOSH obtained copies of company medical records for the workers who signed a medical records release form. Environmental monitoring found quantifiable concentrations of AMT or DE-498 in personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples during tasks where these materials were manually added to, or discharged from the closed system in Building 16. The greatest potential for exposure to these materials existed during these specific tasks. Although use of respiratory protection and other personal protective equipment (PPE) appeared to provide substantial protection, reports of upper respiratory symptoms by several employees with occupational asthma (OA) indicate that PPE may not provide adequate protection for these individuals. Visible airborne dust during AMT and dryer charges, indicates a need for improved engineering controls (local exhaust ventilation) to reduce the potential for worker exposures. AMT and DE-498 in area air samples collected at the boundaries of restricted areas established during reactor and dryer charging, ranged from below the limit of detection to barely quantifiable levels. Changes in work practices, PPE, and engineering controls during the various production campaigns preclude assessment of the nature and extent of previous exposures to AMT and DE-498. A total of 41 employees and four former employees participated in the medical survey; the participation rate was 41% in production workers with a potential for AMT exposure. The medical survey identified 12 cases of physician-diagnosed asthma that were diagnosed after the cases started working at ChemDesign. In 11 of these, the onset corresponded with periods when AMT was used in the company. The physician's diagnosis of OA was mostly made on the basis of the presence of nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity (NSBH), work-related respiratory symptoms, and in some cases work-related serial peak flow changes. The NSBH occurred after a latency period; allergy to common allergens was not a risk factor for the development of OA in these cases. Laboratory studies were undertaken to assess whether the respiratory symptoms observed in ChemDesign workers could be due to an allergic response to AMT and DE-498. Studies done on human blood of employees exposed to AMT were not able to clearly demonstrate that AMT or DE-498 exposures were associated with an allergic response to those agents. However, animal studies clearly show that AMT, but not DE-498, is capable of causing an allergic response. The results from the animal studies support the original complaints that AMT caused occupational asthma. However, the possible role of DE-498 cannot be excluded from negative animal studies. A large percentage of employees reported respiratory symptoms that started during 1998, when two new campaigns using AMT were started in ChemDesign. However, apart from AMT, other agents were reported as causing or making the respiratory symptoms worse. Chronic lung function effects were also found. A high percentage of the participants (18%) had mild airflow obstruction according to the American Thoracic Society (ATS) criteria. The cross-sectional analysis of the lung function measurements done by NIOSH showed significant decrease in Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) and in the ratio of FEV1 and Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC: this pattern is suggestive of airway obstruction. The data analysis of company yearly lung function data confirmed that the study participants had a higher mean decline in FEV1 and FEV1/FVC with age, than would be expected from the reference equations. In summary, the results of the medical and laboratory investigation provide evidence that the incidence of OA was associated with exposure to AMT. There was an association between AMT exposure and asthma onset, NSBH associated with AMT exposure improved after withdrawal from AMT exposure, and AMT was found to be a sensitizer in animal studies. The findings show that ChemDesign employees are exposed to agents that can lead to occupational asthma and steeper decline in lung function with age than would be expected. Respiratory symptoms and lung function monitoring currently done at ChemDesign provide an opportunity to utilize the data for the protection of employees' respiratory health. Active workers' participation in the respiratory health protection program should be encouraged. Investigators examined changes in yearly thyroid hormone (T4) measurements in relation to working on the AMT campaigns. The possibility that AMT was associated with the decrease in thyroid hormone production could not be ruled out because of insufficient data. The investigation provides strong evidence that AMT (3-Amino-5-mercapto-1,2,4-triazole) was the causal agent responsible for the cluster of occupational asthma that occurred in ChemDesign. AMT has a potential for causing allergic response in experimental animals. Environmental monitoring found quantifiable concentrations of AMT in personal breathing zone air samples collected during routine production. Study participants had a high frequency of work-related respiratory symptoms whose onset corresponded with the use of AMT. The group of study participants had decreased mean pulmonary function values suggestive of airflow obstruction, identified from cross-sectional and longitudinal data. The findings of this study show that ChemDesign employees are exposed to chemical agents that can lead to occupational asthma and to COPD. Therefore effective exposure controls and a pulmonary function monitoring program need to be implemented and maintained to prevent further occurrence of respiratory disease in the employees.
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