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HHE Search Results
1057 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
(2002) Tenneco Automotive, Milan, Ohio. (Click to open report) On January 21, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Tenneco Automotive (TA) facility in Milan, Ohio, by an authorized representative of the United Auto Workers Union (Local 2352). The request expressed concern about inadequate ventilation and possible nitrosamine generation from the rubber mixing and curing processes in the facility. The request indicated a variety of health symptoms experienced b... (Click to show more)On January 21, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Tenneco Automotive (TA) facility in Milan, Ohio, by an authorized representative of the United Auto Workers Union (Local 2352). The request expressed concern about inadequate ventilation and possible nitrosamine generation from the rubber mixing and curing processes in the facility. The request indicated a variety of health symptoms experienced by TA employees including respiratory and sinus infections, nose bleeds, and loss of voice, as well as a cancer concern in relation to nitrosamine exposure. However, discussions with the requestor revealed that cancer in relation to nitrosamine exposure was the primary health concern. In response to this request, NIOSH investigators conducted an initial site visit on May 10, 2000, and a follow-up investigation on April 5, 2001. On May 10, 2000, NIOSH investigators collected eight general area (GA) air samples for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Based upon the initial findings, the NIOSH investigators determined that a follow-up visit was necessary to better characterize workers' exposures to nitrosamines as well as total and respirable particulates and total hydrocarbons. On April 5, 2001, NIOSH investigators collected a total of 32 personal breathing zone (PBZ) and 7 GA air samples for nitrosamines, 1 PBZ and 13 GA air samples for total particulate, 1 PBZ and 13 GA air samples for respirable particulate, 26 GA air samples for total hydrocarbons, and 8 GA air samples for VOCs during the first shift. Nitrosamine air samples were analyzed for N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), N-nitrosodipropylamine (NDPA), N-nitrosodibutylamine (NDBA), N-nitrosopiperidine (NPIP), N-nitrosopyrrolidine (NPYR), and N-nitrosomorpholine (NMOR). During the initial and follow-up surveys, the VOC air samples found over 100 different components with o-chlorotoluene and diphenylamine as typically the strongest peaks identified. None of the seven individual nitrosamines analyzed for were detected in the air samples. All air samples collected for total particulate, respirable particulate, and total hydrocarbons were below relevant evaluation criteria. During the course of this evaluation, NIOSH never received any information from identified management or labor representatives concerning health problems (specifically, cancer,) among current or former employees of TA. In the absence of this information, no evaluation of the occupational cancer risks among TA employees could be made. Based on the lack of information provided to them, NIOSH investigators are unable to conclude that a health hazard related to nitrosamine exposure existed at the Tenneco Automotive facility. However, at the time this investigation was conducted, air concentrations of nitrosamines and other compounds were all below relevant evaluation criteria. The ventilation survey and observation of work practices conducted by NIOSH did result in suggested improvements in this facility. These suggestions are presented in the Recommendations section of this report.
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(2002) Thomas Steel Strip Corporation, Warren, Ohio. (Click to open report) In September 1999, an authorized representative of Local 3523, United Steelworkers of America, asked NIOSH to evaluate an apparent cluster of hypoplastic left heart syndrome among offspring of three male workers employed at Thomas Steel Strip (TSS) Corporation, Warren, Ohio. Two of the three male employees worked in the Finishing Department. Workers in this department were exposed to nickel, copper, iron, and zinc dusts, as well as to a dust of another metal designated by TSS as a trade secret (... (Click to show more)In September 1999, an authorized representative of Local 3523, United Steelworkers of America, asked NIOSH to evaluate an apparent cluster of hypoplastic left heart syndrome among offspring of three male workers employed at Thomas Steel Strip (TSS) Corporation, Warren, Ohio. Two of the three male employees worked in the Finishing Department. Workers in this department were exposed to nickel, copper, iron, and zinc dusts, as well as to a dust of another metal designated by TSS as a trade secret (heretofore referred to as "TS metal.") TSS advised NIOSH as to the identity of this metal. Workers in this department were also exposed to a rust inhibitor that was applied to the electroplated strip steel. Medical records of heart defect cases born in 1998 were obtained and reviewed by NIOSH. To calculate a rate of birth defects among all TSS employees, insurance claims information was collected and analyzed. Rates were calculated separately for employees who worked in the Finishing Department during the prenatal period and those who did not. Airborne concentrations of the following substances were measured in the Finishing Department: (1) nickel, zinc, copper, iron, and a trade secret metal (TS Metal); (2) the active ingredient in the rust inhibitor, 2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenol (2 BHT); and (3) organic solvents. Workers in the Finishing Department had reported that they periodically pass through the Old Plating Department en route to their jobs. Therefore, airborne concentrations were obtained in the Old Plating Department for hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, sodium hydroxide, hexavalent chromium, ammonia, and cyanide. In addition, hand wipe samples, shoe wipe samples, and cotton pad samples (affixed to the workers' shirt and trousers) were obtained and analyzed for the five metals. The intent of this sampling effort was to assess the potential for metals to be transported from the workplace to the worker's car and home. Wipe samples for metals analyses were also obtained in defined locations within the automobiles of several workers employed in the Finishing Department. Control samples from the automobiles of workers employed outside of the Finishing Department were also obtained. Ionizing radiation measurements were obtained in and around Finishing Department work stations to evaluate potential doses from radioactive sources used in connection with the steel strip gauging systems. Water samples were obtained at drinking fountains near the Finishing and Old Plating Departments. Levels of selected substances found in samples from these locations were compared with levels found in samples taken from two off-site locations, one approximately 10 miles from TSS, another from Cincinnati. Three major heart defects in children born in 1998 to TSS employees were confirmed, and one major heart defect in a child born in 1993 was confirmed. Four additional, less severe, heart defects were identified in children born in 1996, 1998, and 1999. The rate of severe heart defects among validated TSS births was 21.4%, and the rate of all identified heart defects among validated TSS births for 1998 was 27.8%. These rates are higher than other regional data, which show approximately 1% of live births to have major heart defects. Airborne levels for four of the five metals of interest, as well as airborne levels of four organic solvents, were below the NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL). One personal exposure measurement to nickel dust was above the NIOSH REL. Patch and wipe samples for several metals showed higher levels in TSS employees compared to NIOSH control samples. Automobile wipe samples obtained from the floor and seat locations on the driver's side indicated measurable levels of copper, iron, nickel, and zinc. These levels were higher in automobiles of production employees than in automobiles of administrative employees. Thus, there is a potential for metals to be taken into the homes of workers, which may pose a risk to family members. However, the health significance of these metal levels is not known. Results of ionizing radiation measurements indicated that radiation doses are at or near background levels at the operator position of the Finishing Department work stations. Comparison of levels of selected analytes found in production area drinking water samples with those obtained at off site locations indicated no major differences in level or content. Levels that were found were well below maximum contaminant levels set by the Environmental Protection Agency. Levels of environmental contaminants were unremarkable. In consideration of the current state of knowledge regarding known reproductive toxicants, it is concluded that the cluster cannot be clearly linked with these exposures. Recommendations regarding personal hygiene practices among TSS employees are in the Recommendations section of this report. In addition, temperature control of the cyanide-containing plating baths should be kept at process design levels.
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(2001) Benefis Healthcare, Great Falls, Montana. (Click to open report) Benefis Healthcare in Great Falls Montana provides tertiary healthcare services for the 200,000 people of North-central Montana. In April 2000 the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation request from the management of Benefis Healthcare to investigate respiratory health and indoor air quality at the healthcare facility. We posed the following questions: Does the prevalence of lower respiratory symptoms, upper respiratory symptoms, and ... (Click to show more)Benefis Healthcare in Great Falls Montana provides tertiary healthcare services for the 200,000 people of North-central Montana. In April 2000 the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation request from the management of Benefis Healthcare to investigate respiratory health and indoor air quality at the healthcare facility. We posed the following questions: Does the prevalence of lower respiratory symptoms, upper respiratory symptoms, and asthma differ between the East and West Campus hospitals and the floors within the hospitals? Do the levels of biological agents and characterization of particles differ between the sample sites at the hospitals? Is there an association between prevalence of lower and upper respiratory health outcomes and environmental assessment for signs of water incursion, levels of biological agents, and particles? What is the prevalence of latex sensitivity and latex glove use in hospital employees? Are there areas that are acting as reservoirs of latex allergens? In May and August 2000 NIOSH conducted an investigation at the East and West Campus hospital buildings of Benefis Healthcare. NIOSH administered a health questionnaire and measured levels of various exposures in the air, chair dust and floor dust (culturable fungi, spore counts, ergosterol, endotoxin, dust mite allergen, cockroach allergen, extracellular polysaccharides, β1-3 glucans, culturable bacteria, cat allergen, latex allergen, mouse urinary protein, particle counts, volatile organic compounds, temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide). Approximately 60% of the workers participated in the survey and 70% in the areas we sampled. The results and conclusions of the investigation are as follows: We documented that building-related respiratory problems were occurring among employees in the Benefis East and West Campus hospitals. The diagnosed asthma prevalence was 17.1% compared to 11.4% for the state of Montana. Medical records of the sentinel asthma cases from the 8th floor of the East Campus hospital documented both the occurrence of asthma with methacholine challenge and a work-related pattern with the use of serial peak flow spirometry. The sentinel cases were not latex asthma since their latex-specific IgE tests were negative. We found higher levels of mold on the 6th, 7th and 8th floors of the East Campus. Our direct measures of environmental contamination and our subjective assessment also showed positive associations with health outcomes. Physician-diagnosed latex allergy was reported by 3.2% of participants, with no differences between the two campuses. The reported use of powdered latex gloves was 6% and 8% in the East and West Campus hospitals, respectively. The reported use of powder-free latex gloves was 17% in both hospitals. The reported use of non-latex gloves was 51% and 34% in the East and West Campus hospitals, respectively. Twenty-seven percent and 42% of the East and West Campus hospitals, respectively, reported no glove use. Departments with the highest reported use of powder-free latex gloves were Surgery East (52%), Home Care (50%), Housekeeping (43%), Surgery West (38%) and Transitional Care Unit (36%). Latex allergen was not detected in the air. The highest ventilation duct latex allergen reservoirs were found in 4 West Campus hospital departments. The following are specific recommendations for this workplace: Disseminate the findings of this report so that employees with respiratory conditions can consult their physicians or the employee health department regarding any need for relocation or environmental intervention at work or at home. Prognosis for work-related asthma is improved by early recognition and exposure cessation. Conduct medical surveillance for the early detection of work-related respiratory problems, both for appropriate clinical management and to show whether remediations have been effective in preventing new cases. Promptly remediate water incursions and replace all wetted material that can not be dried out in 24 hours. Doing so reduces the potential for microbial amplification. Use containment measures during renovations that keep exposures to construction dusts and the reservoirs of mold and latex that we identified to a minimum. Institute housekeeping practices that keep dust accumulation at a minimum. Repair eroded and damaged casing liners in ventilation systems on the West Campus. HVAC personnel and infection control officers should review air flow maps (Appendix G) to insure that the airflows observed are in compliance with American Institute of Architects (AIA) and American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) guidelines for airflows required. Provide both service and health-care workers with powder-free latex and/or non-latex gloves where appropriate. Clean areas contaminated with latex dust. NIOSH documented that building-related respiratory problems were occurring among employees in the Benefis East and West Campus hospitals. Our direct measures of environmental contamination and our subjective assessment also showed positive associations with health outcomes. Prognosis for work-related asthma is improved by early recognition and exposure cessation. We recommend that medical surveillance is conducted for the early detection of work-related respiratory problems, both for appropriate clinical management and to show whether remediations have been effective in preventing new cases. Prompt remediation of water incursions and replacement of all wetted material that can not be dried out in 24 hours should be carried out. Containment measures should be used during renovations to keep exposures to construction dusts and the reservoirs of mold and latex that we identified to a minimum. Housekeeping practices that keep dust accumulation at a minimum should be set in place.
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(2001) Campbell Hausfeld, Harrison, Ohio. (Click to open report) In July 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a management request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at Campbell Hausfeld in Harrison, Ohio, a producer of air compressors. This HHE request concerned several employees from the machining and assembly areas who had been reporting skin problems to management in the months prior to the request. The company had consulted an occupational dermatologist to evaluate the rashes and to determine their cause. ... (Click to show more)In July 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a management request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at Campbell Hausfeld in Harrison, Ohio, a producer of air compressors. This HHE request concerned several employees from the machining and assembly areas who had been reporting skin problems to management in the months prior to the request. The company had consulted an occupational dermatologist to evaluate the rashes and to determine their cause. Campbell Hausfeld followed the dermatologist's recommendations, but some workers continued experiencing rashes. NIOSH investigators conducted an initial site visit on August 31, 2000. Based on the general area (GA) particulate sampling results in the machining area, a more thorough air sampling survey was done on January 8-12, 2001. During the first site visit, the NIOSH medical officer interviewed 12 employees, 5 of whom had a skin rash at the time of the interviews. Of the five with current rashes, two were assemblers, two were machinists, and one was an office worker. Two had a rash on their hands that appeared to be dyshydrotic eczema; two (both assemblers) had a rash on the forearms consistent with dermatitis, but it could not be determined if it was work-related; and one had folliculitis, which occurred on areas of skin not in contact with metal-working fluid (MWF), as well as on areas that may have contact with MWF. Review of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 200 Injury and Illness logs revealed 15 separate cases of dermatitis since 1995; 9 in machinists, 2 in product services, and 4 in assemblers. Over both site visits, the NIOSH industrial hygienists collected bulk fluid samples for microbial analysis, GA and personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples for total particulate, thoracic particulate, and extractable MWF analysis, real-time particulate concentration, count, and size data, and PBZ samples for volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis. The microbial sampling did not reveal anything unusual for MWF environments, and the VOC sampling results were all below relevant criteria except for the paint-booth employee who wore a respirator. Over half of the MWF particulate sample concentrations were above the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) of 0.5 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) total mass or 0.4 mg/m3 thoracic mass, for up to a 10-hour time-weighted average. The real-time data suggest that a large percentage of the particle mass concentration was in the respirable range. NIOSH investigators concluded that a health hazard from exposure to MWF exists at Campbell Hausfeld and recommended that exposures be reduced and a comprehensive MWF safety and health program be developed and implemented. The program should include training, exposure assessment, hazard control, and medical monitoring. MWFs are known to cause irritant contact dermatitis and may cause allergic contact dermatitis. While it is unlikely that there is one single cause of the various rashes experienced by employees, work-related exacerbations of skin problems could be minimized by limiting skin contact with the MWFs, washer detergents, and rust inhibitors. MWFs are also known to cause respiratory irritation and decrease lung function. Engineering controls such as dilution ventilation, enclosures, and local exhaust ventilation are needed to reduce the MWF exposures.
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(2001) CSX Transportation, Inc., Nashville, Tennessee. (Click to open report) In June 1992, the Dixie Federation of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees (BMWE) requested a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) health hazard evaluation (HHE) of railroad track maintenance operations conducted by CSX Transportation, Incorporated (CSXT). The request concerned respiratory hazards to maintenance of way (MOW) employees from dusts generated while these operations are performed "in and around Radnor Yard in Nashville, Tennessee and at most tracka... (Click to show more)In June 1992, the Dixie Federation of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees (BMWE) requested a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) health hazard evaluation (HHE) of railroad track maintenance operations conducted by CSX Transportation, Incorporated (CSXT). The request concerned respiratory hazards to maintenance of way (MOW) employees from dusts generated while these operations are performed "in and around Radnor Yard in Nashville, Tennessee and at most trackage in Tennessee as well as other southern states." Subsequent to the request, the Dixie Federation merged with other federations and assumed the name of the Allied Eastern Federation of BMWE. On November 9, 1992, NIOSH representatives met with company and union representatives for an initial meeting and brief site visit near Radnor Yard. NIOSH then conducted environmental air sampling at eight sites during track maintenance activities between August 1993 and April 1997. Twenty-two area samples and 185 personal samples were collected for respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica. Area and personal respirable dust 10-hour time-weighted average (TWA) concentrations ranged from "not detected" to 1.04 mg/m3 and "not detected" to 2.05 mg/m3 , respectively. The range of 10-hour TWA respirable crystalline silica (as quartz) concentrations for the area samples was "not detected" to 0.30 mg/m3 and was "not detected" to 0.43 mg/m3 for the personal samples. Cristobalite, another form of crystalline silica, was not detected on any of the samples. Eighteen of the personal sample concentrations exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for respirable dust, and 28 exceeded the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) for respirable quartz; these samples were obtained on ballast regulator, broom, and tamper operators as well as track repairmen engaged in ballast dumping. In an effort to reduce worker exposure, the company was modifying operator cabs on equipment. The cabs were being rebuilt with air-conditioning and pressurization systems, and seals were being provided around doors, windows, and levers. Real-time dust measurements showed the effectiveness of these modifications to one such cab. Manual control of ballast car hopper doors was being replaced with radio remote control. NIOSH recommendations include substitution with ballast that contains less crystalline silica, wetting of the ballast to prevent dust, and maintenance of the operator cabs. NIOSH investigators determined that a health hazard existed for railroad track maintenance workers from occupational exposure to crystalline silica. The presence of this risk was indicated by personal measurements of airborne respirable crystalline silica that exceeded occupational exposure guidelines. The hazard was greatest for workers who operated ballast regulating, broom, and tamping machines and for track repairman who dumped ballast. Reduction of worker exposure to airborne dust is recommended to protect the health of the workers engaged in these activities.
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(2001) E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Co., Inc., Richmond, Virginia. (Click to open report) On May 10, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from members of the Ampthill Rayon Workers Inc. (ARWI) employed at the E. I. DuPont de Nemours and Co., Inc., (DuPont) facility in Richmond, Virginia. The request indicated that persons working in the para-aramid (Kevlar) fiber production area were experiencing "infected gland, sore throats, and infections" that they believed may be a result of workplace exposures.... (Click to show more)On May 10, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from members of the Ampthill Rayon Workers Inc. (ARWI) employed at the E. I. DuPont de Nemours and Co., Inc., (DuPont) facility in Richmond, Virginia. The request indicated that persons working in the para-aramid (Kevlar) fiber production area were experiencing "infected gland, sore throats, and infections" that they believed may be a result of workplace exposures. In response to the request, NIOSH investigators visited the facility on July 26-28, 2000. Environmental monitoring was conducted to characterize exposures in the Spinning and Finishing (Beaming and Roving) areas. Total dust exposures in the Beaming and Roving areas of the Finishing area were below 0.02 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3), the limit of detection for the sampling method used. Fiber exposures in the Roving and Beaming areas were 0.01 and 0.02 fibers per cubic centimeter (f/cc), below the exposure criterion of 0.5 f/cc we used for this evaluation. Sulfuric acid mist exposures in the Kevlar Spinning area during routine activities ranged from less than 0.003 mg/m3 to 0.082 mg/m3. The NIOSH, American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), and U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) established an exposure limit for sulfuric acid of 1 mg/m3 as a time-weighted average. The local exhaust systems in the Spinning area were examined for air flow and air speed. We identified "dead spots" and relatively slow air velocities across the face of the hoods. NIOSH medical officers interviewed 46 DuPont employees: 25 systematically and 3 voluntarily selected of 50 Spinning area employees, 15 of 16 current Finishing area employees, and 3 former Finishing area workers. Medical records of 12 employees seen for potentially work-related health concerns were reviewed. Fourteen (56%) of the twenty-five systematically selected, current Spinning area employees reported work-related episodes of upper respiratory symptoms, two reported brief work-related episodes of shortness of breath, and four reported symptoms mainly occurring during work with the interlacing part of the machine. Of the 15 interviewed Finishing employees, 4 (27%) reported work-related allergy symptoms and/or increased frequency of upper respiratory infections, including sinusitis, 1 reported the onset of episodes of wheeze, and shortness of breath after beginning work in the area, and 1 current and 2 prior Finishing area employees reported symptom onset or worsening after installation of the interlace boxes. Three of five medical records received for Spinning area workers documented findings of throat irritation and/or chronic hoarseness; two of these medical reports mentioned work-related sulfuric acid mist exposure as a potential cause and one documented a physician-recommended job transfer. No association between symptoms and work environment was reported in medical records of four current Finishing employees. Medical records of three former Finishing area workers revealed two with eye and/or throat irritation who had both been restricted at certain times from the Roving interlace area by the company physician, and one with new-onset asthma diagnosed one year after beginning work in the Finishing area, but with no documentation of a specific cause, including exposures in the workplace. All measured concentrations of dust, fibers, and sulfuric acid in this evaluation were well below available guidelines or standards. The symptoms reported by DuPont employees evaluated in this HHE are non-specific and cannot be directly related to specific exposures in the areas evaluated, however, it is possible that elevated concentrations of workplace contaminants could have occurred in the past and contributed to reported symptoms. Recommendations are provided in this report to address health and safety issues identified during our evaluation.
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(2001) Foeste Masonry, Cape Girardeau, Missouri. (Click to open report) Foeste masonry recently received an OSHA citation for overexposure of workers to crystalline silica during the dry cutting of brick. Foeste subsequently purchased several brick/block cutoff saws equipped with water dust suppression. Until Foeste could show that exposures were adequately controlled, Foeste was required by OSHA to enroll the operators in a respiratory protection program (fit testing and use of half mask, cartridge respirators). On April 3, 2000, Foeste Masonry requested a Health H... (Click to show more)Foeste masonry recently received an OSHA citation for overexposure of workers to crystalline silica during the dry cutting of brick. Foeste subsequently purchased several brick/block cutoff saws equipped with water dust suppression. Until Foeste could show that exposures were adequately controlled, Foeste was required by OSHA to enroll the operators in a respiratory protection program (fit testing and use of half mask, cartridge respirators). On April 3, 2000, Foeste Masonry requested a Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) to assess the effectiveness of wet dust suppression during the cutting of brick and block. On May 8, 2000, NIOSH investigators met with Foeste representatives to discuss sampling procedures for collecting airborne dust samples. Environmental measurements of airborne particulate were obtained on May 9 -10,2000. NIOSH investigators determined that dry cutting can lead to intense exposures to silica dust. Such exposures are likely to be very hazardous to workers operating the saws and working in their vicinity. NIOSH recommends that wet cutting be used when ever possible. The sampling undertaken in this study indicates that wet cutting, undertaken using the manufacturer's guidelines, generally leads to exposures to silica dust below the OSHA PEL. It is recommended that saw operators continue to wear at least a NIOSH-approved, disposable respirator, especially when wet cutting for two hours or more. If dry cutting brick or block is necessitated by the building design a Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) should be worn and the cutting time should be limited. Routine evaluation of dust exposures is desirable to ensure that the workers are adequately protected, especially for brick or block of high silica content.
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(2001) Lac Vieux Desert Resort and Casino, Watersmeet, Michigan. (Click to open report) On December 13, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a management request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Lac Vieux Desert Resort and Casino in Watersmeet, Michigan to determine if workplace exposures during counting operations are related to reported health problems that some employees have experienced. Specifically, NIOSH was asked to evaluate exposure to metal dust and other contaminants associated with machine counting of coins and pape... (Click to show more)On December 13, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a management request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Lac Vieux Desert Resort and Casino in Watersmeet, Michigan to determine if workplace exposures during counting operations are related to reported health problems that some employees have experienced. Specifically, NIOSH was asked to evaluate exposure to metal dust and other contaminants associated with machine counting of coins and paper money at the casino. Reported symptoms included eye, nasal, and respiratory irritation, and other respiratory problems. On January 25-27, 2001, NIOSH researchers conducted a site visit at the Lac Vieux Desert Resort and Casino. The purpose of this site visit was to review the coin counting process, interview employees, and characterize the work environment to determine factors that may contribute to the reported symptoms. During the first shift (12:00 AM - 8:00 AM) on January 26 and January 27, environmental monitoring was conducted to evaluate count employees personal exposures to nickel, copper, zinc, and other metals that may be present in coin dust, and to the total dust present in both the hard (coin) and soft (paper) counting areas. Surface samples were collected to determine the extent of metal contamination in various areas, and personal noise monitoring was conducted to evaluate worker exposure to noise. The results of the air sampling showed that for the monitoring period all measured concentrations of nickel, copper, and zinc were below the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limits (REL) for these substances. The highest measured concentration of nickel was 7 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3 ), detected in a sample collected from a coin count worker. The NIOSH REL for nickel is 15 µg/m3 . The highest copper concentration (24 µg/m3 ) was measured in this same sample. The NIOSH REL for copper dust is 1000 µg/m3 . All zinc samples were either below the limit of detection (LOD) or between the LOD and the limit of quantitation. The NIOSH REL for zinc oxide is 5000 µg/m3 . The surface sampling results identified some areas in the coin counting room where additional cleaning is warranted to reduce the potential for spreading metal contamination or generating airborne dust. All measured noise exposures were below the NIOSH REL of 85 decibels on the A-weighting scale (dBA) as a full-shift time-weighted average. Workers reported nasal, respiratory, and eye irritation; no skin problems were reported by any of the workers. A number of manual lifting activities involving substantial loads and awkward postures were observed, most of which involved handling the coins. Based on a limited review of the ventilation system and information provided by casino employees, it appears the heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system supporting the count areas is insufficient to maintain thermal conditions in an appropriate comfort range. The ventilation in the Soft Count room does not appear to be able to accommodate the number of people that work in this room (conditions are crowded). Temperatures ranging from 73 degrees - 76 degrees F were measured in the work areas (an acceptable range) and the relative humidity in the work areas was lower than desirable (10-11%). These lower humidity levels and insufficient general ventilation could account for some of the eye and nasal irritation that has been experienced by workers. Exposures to nickel, copper, and zinc during currency counting activities were below recommended limits. The surface sampling results indicate that additional cleaning in the coin counting room is warranted. All measured noise exposures were below recommended limits, however there are opportunities to further reduce noise levels in the Hard Count room. The general ventilation system does not appear to adequately support the Hard Count and Soft Count rooms, particularly the Soft Count room. Relative Humidity levels were low and may account for some of the eye and nasal irritation reported by workers. Tobacco smoke was detected in non-smoking areas indicating that smoke is not being effectively isolated and ventilated. It is possible that the health complaints could be resolved by improving the general indoor environmental quality in the counting area. Recommendations to improve conditions and address ergonomic issues are in the Recommendation section of this report.
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(2001) Lehigh Portland Cement Company, Union Bridges, Maryland. (Click to open report) On May 30, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Paper, Allied Industrial, Chemical, and Energy Workers Union Local 2-0031 regarding fly ash exposures during the cement manufacturing process at the Lehigh Portland Cement Company in Union Bridge, Maryland. The union was concerned about possible exposures to crystalline silica as a constituent of the fly ash (approximately 1-6%) used in the cement manufac... (Click to show more)On May 30, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the Paper, Allied Industrial, Chemical, and Energy Workers Union Local 2-0031 regarding fly ash exposures during the cement manufacturing process at the Lehigh Portland Cement Company in Union Bridge, Maryland. The union was concerned about possible exposures to crystalline silica as a constituent of the fly ash (approximately 1-6%) used in the cement manufacturing process. On July 24-25, 2000, NIOSH investigators conducted a site visit at the Lehigh Portland Cement Company. Area and personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples were collected for total dust, respirable dust, and crystalline silica. Bulk samples of the fly ash and raw feed were also collected and analyzed for crystalline silica content and elements (e.g., chromium, copper, nickel, lead, magnesium, manganese, titanium, zinc, etc.). A return site visit was conducted on December 13, 2000, to collect PBZ air samples for elements. PBZ air samples collected for respirable dust, quartz (crystalline silica), cristobalite, and elements did not indicate any exposures exceeding applicable exposure criteria. Three area samples collected at different times in the raw mill separator area indicated total dust concentrations of 149 milligrams of dust per cubic meter of air (mg/m3), 14 mg/m3, and 20 mg/m3. (The settled dust [on equipment, stairs, floors, etc.] in the raw mill area, and leaks in the process equipment may affect dust sample concentrations collected at different times during the day). Three out of seven workers sampled during the initial site visit had total dust time-weighted average (TWA) exposures above the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Value (TLV) and Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 10 mg/m3. Two of these workers were performing work tasks in the mill room and had TWA exposures that also exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for total dust (15 mg/m3). PBZ air samples collected on a worker repairing a leak in the process equipment (located within the raw mill building) indicated an extremely high total dust TWA concentration (3800 mg/m3). This sample was not representative of the worker's breathing zone exposure (dust was blowing directly on the sampling cassette at a high velocity while he was repairing the leak). However, because of the high concentration in this sample, it is possible that the worker's true exposure to total dust concentrations was well over applicable exposure criteria. All area and PBZ air samples for quartz (crystalline silica) were below applicable exposure criteria. However, PBZ air samples indicated that total dust TWA exposures were in excess of applicable exposure criteria. Recommendations to control total dust exposures include shutting off process equipment when performing maintenance activities to repair leaks; fixing leaks in process equipment to reduce dust generating sources; using engineering and administrative controls when feasible; using respirators when other controls are not feasible; using vacuums (with P95 filters) instead of pressurized air to clean off work clothing; and re-sampling after any process changes to evaluate worker exposures under new conditions.
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(2001) NIOSH Exposure Assessment of Cellulose Insulation Applicators. (Click to open report) In July 1994, cellulose insulation (CI) was nominated to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) for a comprehensive toxicological evaluation. The evaluation consisted of two components: (1) a bulk analytical characterization of CI and (2) an exposure assessment of U.S. contractors applying the CI in residential and commercial buildings. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) was presented with an opportunity to assist in the evaluation of CI by conducting the exposure a... (Click to show more)In July 1994, cellulose insulation (CI) was nominated to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) for a comprehensive toxicological evaluation. The evaluation consisted of two components: (1) a bulk analytical characterization of CI and (2) an exposure assessment of U.S. contractors applying the CI in residential and commercial buildings. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) was presented with an opportunity to assist in the evaluation of CI by conducting the exposure assessment through an interagency agreement with the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences/NTP. NIOSH conducted the CI exposure assessment, which included a medical component, with 10 contractors located across the United States. During each contractor site visit, air samples were collected for total dust, respirable dust, and for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis to characterize any fibers in the dust. The CI installer and hopper operator each had two SEM air samples collected for each day of CI activities. Bulk samples of the CI were collected and analyzed for metals, boron, and sulfate content. Real-time and video exposure monitoring were also conducted to further characterize the CI dust and workers' exposures. For the 10 contractor site visits, 175 personal breathing zone (PBZ) total dust, 106 area total dust, and 90 area respirable dust air samples were collected during CI related activities. There were 26 employees with total dust eight-hour time-weighted averages (8-hour TWAs) exceeding the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 15 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) and 42 exceeding the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Value (TLV) of 10 mg/m3. Respirable dust air sampling and real-time monitoring with particle size discrimination indicated low levels of respirable dust generation. The SEM analyses revealed that fibers were on average 28 micrometers in length and ranged from 5 to 150 micrometers. CI installers' PBZ samples and area air samples for total dust were significantly higher for dry attic applications than wet attic applications (p < 0.01). Respirable dust air samples collected in the attic area indicated a significantly higher concentration for dry applications than wet applications (p < 0.01). The hopper operators' total dust exposures were significantly higher during wet wall/ceiling applications than dry wall/ceiling applications (p = 0.02). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests evaluating exposure concentrations revealed that total dust air samples collected in the PBZ of workers (CI installer in attics, CI installer in walls, hopper operator during attic applications, and hopper operator during walls/ceiling applications) varied significantly during dry applications (p < 0.01). The respirable dust air samples collected in various areas (attic area, hopper area during attic applications, and hopper area during walls/ceiling applications) differed significantly during dry applications (p = 0.03). Twenty-three workers participated in the medical phase of the investigation. The workers completed a medical and work history questionnaire, performed serial peak flow tests, and completed multiple acute symptom surveys. The medical questionnaires indicated respiratory, nasal, and skin symptoms that employees attributed to CI exposure. The most common symptoms reported while working with CI included nasal symptoms (35%), eye symptoms (35%), and morning phlegm production (25%). There was a temporal association between CI exposure and eye symptoms. There is little evidence of lower respiratory system health conditions associated with CI exposure. Based on the air sample data collected from the 10 contractor site visits, NIOSH investigators conclude that there is potential for overexposure to cellulose insulation (CI). Employees in virtually all CI application activities were exposed to total dust levels which exceeded the OSHA 8-hour TWA of 15 mg/m3. CI installers' PBZ total dust samples and area air samples for total and respirable dust were significantly higher for dry attic applications than wet attic applications. Eye symptoms were temporally associated with CI exposure. There is little evidence of lower respiratory tract health conditions associated with CI exposure. Suggestions to improve the health and safety of employees in this industry, through the use of engineering controls and personal protective equipment (i.e., respirators), are presented in the Recommendations section of this report.
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