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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
(2002) Crumb-rubber modified asphalt paving: occupational exposures and acute health effects. (Click to open report) In 1991, Congress enacted the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA), which required each state to use a minimum quantity of "crumb-rubber modified" (CRM) hot-mix asphalt (HMA) paving material. Because of industry and labor concerns over the lack of available information on the environmental and human health effects resulting from the use of CRM-HMA, along with the higher initial cost of using this paving material, a temporary legislative moratorium was passed and the U.S. Env... (Click to show more)In 1991, Congress enacted the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA), which required each state to use a minimum quantity of "crumb-rubber modified" (CRM) hot-mix asphalt (HMA) paving material. Because of industry and labor concerns over the lack of available information on the environmental and human health effects resulting from the use of CRM-HMA, along with the higher initial cost of using this paving material, a temporary legislative moratorium was passed and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) were directed by Congress to evaluate the potential environmental and human health effects associated with the use of CRM asphalt. The National Highway System Designation Act of 1995 eliminated the mandate requiring the use of CRM asphalt but continued to require research concerning CRM asphalt paving. In June 1994, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) entered into an Interagency Agreement with the FHWA to evaluate occupational exposures among asphalt road workers. A study protocol developed by NIOSH included the following objectives: Develop and field test new methods to assess asphalt fume exposures; Characterize and compare occupational exposures to CRM asphalt and conventional (CONV) asphalt; Evaluate potential health effects associated with CRM asphalt and CONV asphalt. The protocol called for up to eight individual site evaluations in different regions of the country. The intent was to allow NIOSH investigators to observe different asphalt pavement formulations, climatic conditions, and paving techniques. Seven site evaluations were completed between 1994 and 1997. The environmental and medical results discussed collectively in this report have been individually published in the following seven NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) final reports: HETA 94-0365-2563, Spartan Paving Company, Lansing, Michigan (March 1996); HETA 94-0408-2564, Granite Construction Company, Sacramento, California (March 1996); HETA 95-0118-2565, Martin Paving Company, Yeehaw Junction, Florida (March 1996); HETA 95-0307-2602, Koester Equipment Company, Evansville, Indiana (December 1996); HETA 96-0072-2603, Staker Paving Company, Casa Grande, Arizona (December 1996); HETA 96-0130-2619, Sim J. Harris Company, San Diego, California (December 1996); HETA 97-0232-2674, Barton-Trimount, Stoughton, Massachusetts (February 1998). A new NIOSH method which simultaneously sampled for total particulate (TP) and benzene soluble particulate (BSP) was developed. Polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) were sampled using a new analytical method that included a PAC370 group (2-3 ring compounds, many of which have irritative effects) and a PAC400 group (4- and more ring compounds, some of which are carcinogenic). In addition to PACs, organic sulfur-containing compounds (OSCs, present in crude petroleum or from the addition of rubber) and benzothiazole (a sulfur-containing compound present in rubber tires), were also sampled using a newly developed sampling and analytical method. These compounds were of interest for their potential for respiratory irritation (OSCs) or for their use as an indicator of other chemicals present in CRM asphalt fume (OSCs and benzothiazole). Samples were collected for volatile organic compounds (VOCs, including toluene, xylene, benzene, and methyl isobutyl ketone [MIBK], and total VOCs [TVOCs, quantified as Stoddard solvent]. Both elemental carbon (EC) and organic carbon (OC) were measured and the ratio to total carbon (TC) was compared to ascertain if diesel exhaust was a likely contributor to the air contaminants measured at each site. Area air samples were collected to determine the respirable particulate concentrations. Direct-reading instruments were used to measure carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ozone. Finally, high volume air samples of both CRM and CONV asphalt fume were collected from the emissions of asphalt cement storage tanks located at the hot-mix plants and analyzed to determine their mutagenic potential. Area air sample results revealed that concentrations of TP, respirable particulate, BSP, PACs, OSCs, and benzothiazole varied between sampling locations and survey days but were generally higher during the CRM asphalt paving than during CONV asphalt paving. In all but two samples, the PAC370 concentrations were greater than the PAC400 concentrations. All of the air samples collected for EC above the screed auger on the paver vehicle had concentrations above the background levels. Since diesel exhaust has been reported to contain EC levels between 60 to 80% of the TC, the relatively low EC:TC ratios measured at all but one of the sites imply that diesel exhaust was not substantially contributing to the air sampling results. None of the asphalt fume samples were found to be mutagenic using a spiral Salmonella mutagenicity assay. Over 50 VOCs were detected in the asphalt emissions, but only the highest peaks were analyzed quantitatively. Although higher concentrations of toluene, xylene, and MIBK were measured during CRM asphalt paving, all concentrations were generally less than 1 part per million (ppm). Concentrations of TVOCs (as Stoddard solvent) ranged up to 224 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). The NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) for Stoddard solvent is 350 mg/m3 for up to a 10-hour time-weighted average (TWA). Benzene was detected near the screed auger in area samples collected during CRM asphalt paving in concentrations up to 0.77 ppm. Lower, but still detectable, concentrations of benzene were measured during CONV paving. NIOSH classifies benzene as an occupational carcinogen with a REL of 0.1 ppm, 8-hour TWA, noting that exposures should be controlled to the lowest feasible level (LFL). All personal breathing-zone (PBZ) TP exposures were below 1.4 mg/m3, expressed as TWAs for the workday. These PBZ results cannot be compared to the NIOSH REL for asphalt fume of 5 mg/m3 for a 15-minute exposure since the samples in this study were collected over the full work-shift. For six of the eight job categories studied, the geometric mean (GM) PBZ exposures to TP during CRM asphalt paving (range 0.17 to 0.48 mg/m3) was higher than during CONV asphalt paving (range 0.06 to 0.81 mg/m3). However, only the screed operators and roller operators were exposed to significantly more TP during CRM asphalt paving than during CONV asphalt paving (p 0.01). The GM BSP concentrations were higher for four of the six jobs evaluated during CRM asphalt paving (range 0.02 to 0.25 mg/m3) compared to CONV asphalt application (range 0.02 to 0.44 mg/m3). The average concentration by job was below the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Value (TLV) of 0.5 mg/m3 , 8-hour TWA for asphalt fume. Some paver operators and truck dumpers, however, had individual exposures above the TLV. The BSP concentration differences by asphalt type were not significantly different for any job category. The GM PBZ concentrations for PAC370, PAC400, OSCs, and benzothiazole were higher during CRM asphalt paving than CONV paving. As was observed in the area air samples, PAC370 concentrations exceeded PAC400 concentrations. Of the jobs evaluated, only the screed and roller operators had significantly higher PAC exposures during CRM asphalt paving when compared to CONV paving (p 0.01). The paver, screed, and roller operators were all exposed to significantly more OSC during CRM paving than CONV paving (p 0.01). All paving jobs were exposed to significantly more benzothiazole during CRM paving than during CONV paving (p 0.01). With the exception of the first survey site in California, benzothiazole was only detected during CRM asphalt paving. There are currently no occupational exposure limits for PAC370, PAC400, OSCs, o...
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(2002) Lead Safe Services, Inc., Neenah, Wisconsin. (Click to open report) At the request of a state-licensed contractor, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a study of residential lead hazard reduction work. Workers' task-specific and full-shift personal airborne lead (PbA) exposures were measured on three consecutive days during exterior work at two single-family homes in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Tasks assessed were cleaning, demolition, dry scraping, component removal, set-up, and wet scraping. Additionally, we measured surface pai... (Click to show more)At the request of a state-licensed contractor, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a study of residential lead hazard reduction work. Workers' task-specific and full-shift personal airborne lead (PbA) exposures were measured on three consecutive days during exterior work at two single-family homes in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Tasks assessed were cleaning, demolition, dry scraping, component removal, set-up, and wet scraping. Additionally, we measured surface paint lead concentrations and, for dry scraping and a mix of other tasks, concomitant lead concentrations in settled dust (PbS) at 10, 15, and 25 feet (ft) (3.1, 4.6, and 7.6 meters [m]) from work surfaces. Mean exterior paint lead concentrations at the two houses were high: 22 percent (%) and 37% Pb by weight. The 79 task-specific worker PbA exposures measured were highly variable; range 1.4-2240 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3), geometric mean (GM) = 71 microg/m3, geometric standard deviation (GSD) = 4.6. Within-task variability of PbA exposures was high (GSDs = 1.9-5.4). PbA exposures were significantly associated with task, worker, and house variables (p <0.0001). High-exposure tasks were cleaning (GM = 108 microg/m3), dry demolition (77 mcirog/m3), dry scraping (136 micorg/m3), and wet scraping (90 microg/m3); the means did not differ significantly in paired comparisons. The low-exposure task was set-up (GM = 12 microg/m3); the GM for removal also appeared to be low (30 microg/m3 ) but is uncertain due to small sample size (n = 3). Nearly all (14/15) of the full-shift PbA exposures collected for workers performing scraping and a mix of other tasks were above the permissible exposure limit (PEL) (GM = 100 microg/m3, range: 39-526 microg/m3). Results for five full-shift area PbA samples collected to measure potential bystander exposures on work days were relatively low, ranging from 0.83 to 6.1 microg/m3. Seventeen PbS samples collected at 10 ft (3.05 m), sixteen samples at 15 ft (4.57 m), and twelve samples at 25 ft (7.62 m) had respective GMs of 1716, 458 and 65 milligrams per square meter (mg/m 2). PbS levels were significantly associated with distance from the work surface, p <0.0005. PbS levels were not significantly associated with the two task categories (dry scraping and a mix of other tasks). Almost all of the full-shift PbA exposures for workers performing exterior scraping and a mix of other tasks were greater than the PEL. Task-specific PbA exposures were highly variable both within and between tasks. High-exposure tasks were cleaning, demolition, dry scraping, and wet scraping, with mean exposures exceeding the PEL. Mean exposures for set-up and component removal were below the PEL. The respirators used were adequate to protect workers from the exposures measured. Recommendations are provided in this report to assist the contractor in controlling worker exposures to hazardous levels of lead-based paint.
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(2002) Mueller Company, Chattanooga, Tennessee. (Click to open report) In May 1998, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Mueller Company facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The HHE requesters expressed concern over exposures to formaldehyde, phenol, xylene, isocyanates, toluene, naphthalene, carbon monoxide, trimethyl benzene, cumene, lead, and silica in the Pepset, No- Bake, shell core, green sand, and iron pouring areas; silica and iron dust in the cleaning r... (Click to show more)In May 1998, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Mueller Company facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The HHE requesters expressed concern over exposures to formaldehyde, phenol, xylene, isocyanates, toluene, naphthalene, carbon monoxide, trimethyl benzene, cumene, lead, and silica in the Pepset, No- Bake, shell core, green sand, and iron pouring areas; silica and iron dust in the cleaning room, shell core, green sand, and machining areas; oil mist from hydraulic tanks; and asbestos from the concrete plant floors. The HHE request listed respiratory symptoms and possibly increased cancer rates as health concerns. On March 31-April 1, 1999, NIOSH investigators conducted a walk-through survey, reviewed material safety data sheets and environmental sampling data, and interviewed 22 employees about the work environment and possible work-related health effects. Employer records were examined to determine the number of cancer cases among employees. On August 8-9, 2000, environmental monitoring was conducted for phenol, volatile organic compounds, Stoddard solvent, formaldehyde, toluene, cumene, ammonia, trimethyl benzene isomers, 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), and hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA). Formaldehyde was detected at low levels in some air samples. MDI and HMTA were detected at low concentrations. Phenol, Stoddard solvent, toluene, cumene, ammonia, and trimethyl benzene isomers were detected at levels below current occupational exposure limits. Smoke released from the shell core ovens was found to move through the employees' breathing zones before being exhausted through the canopy hood. Twenty-one (4.4% of the 475 production workers) were interviewed. Among those interviewed, most employees who had prolonged exposure to emissions from the Pepset and No-Bake coremaking/molding operations reported transient respiratory irritation. The workers who worked in these areas on a regular basis generally did not report persistent respiratory illnesses that they associated with their workplace exposures. Review of the medical records of six employees who reported work-related respiratory illnesses found that some workers had worsening of pre-existing chronic respiratory conditions, although the cause of this was not determined. Information concerning cancer diagnosed among Mueller Co. employees did not reveal an unusual number or pattern of cancers; however, it is not possible to determine the cause of the cancers that developed among the employees. All of the substances sampled in the employees' personal breathing zones had concentrations below the occupational exposure limits. The 16 identified cancer cases were of 10 different types, and there was not enough information available to determine if the cancers resulted from workplace exposures. Among the small number of employees interviewed, most who had long term exposures to emissions in the Pepset and No-Bake coremaking/molding areas reported temporary respiratory irritation. Recommendations are provided for additional monitoring for MDI, formaldehyde, and phenol, use of gloves, reporting of health symptoms to medical personnel, and local exhaust ventilation in the shell core area.
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(2002) Nassau Community College, Garden City, New York. (Click to open report) Nassau Community College (NCC), located in Garden City, New York, is the largest two-year community college in the State of New York, employing over 1,200 full time faculty and staff in 40 different buildings on a 225 acre campus. On February 29, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a formal request to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Nassau Community College. The request, submitted by the Nassau Community College Federation of Teachers ... (Click to show more)Nassau Community College (NCC), located in Garden City, New York, is the largest two-year community college in the State of New York, employing over 1,200 full time faculty and staff in 40 different buildings on a 225 acre campus. On February 29, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a formal request to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Nassau Community College. The request, submitted by the Nassau Community College Federation of Teachers (NCCFT), was concerned with indoor air quality-related health effects, including asthma, chronic sinusitis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, respiratory infections, and dermatitis, within eight specified buildings on campus. On March 16, 2000, a second request was submitted from the President of NCCFT and the President of NCC amending the initial request to include all existing structures on campus. This request followed 20 years of reports and environmental investigations at the college of water incursions, relative humidity problems, mold growth, and ventilation problems, as well as reported respiratory symptoms. Most of these survey reports focused on environmental conditions within the academic buildings built in the late 1970s. On October 23-27 and December 4-8, 2000, NIOSH conducted an environmental assessment of buildings cited in the request using an 'Environmental Assessment Check Sheet' for visual assessment of water stains., visible mold, mold odor, and standing water or moisture in 724 offices and laboratories in 13 buildings. The 13 buildings included seven buildings, built in 1978, with a history of water damage and six others built either prior to, or after, 1978. On November 20,2000, NIOSH investigators mailed out health questionnaires on respiratory symptoms, supplemented with questions concerning demographic information, work history information, cigarette/cigar/pipe smoking habits, physician-diagnosed asthma, and use of latex gloves and sensitivity information, to all faculty and staff within 30 departments on campus. This was followed by attempts to increase participation and to assess respondent bias. The objectives of the investigation were: 1. to estimate the prevalence of reported respiratory symptoms, work-related symptoms, and post-hire onset of symptoms and to determine whether building-related excesses exist; 2. to assess the indoor environmental factors relating to potential fungal contamination in the campus buildings; 3. to examine the possible associations between reported work-related respiratory symptoms and environmental factors; and 4. to examine symptom rates among the Nursing Department faculty and staff, especially in relation to their move from Cluster F in February 2000. Findings from the environmental assessment showed clear differences between groups of buildings across the campus. Rooms within the Cluster buildings and the Library exhibited distinctly more evidence of water stains, visible mold, mold odor, and current moisture than any of the other buildings studied. The one new building examined, built in 1992, had the lowest scores for water-damage associated factors, while the older buildings, built in 1929, had levels which fell between those for the 1970s buildings and the new building. Of the 393 participants in the questionnaire survey (71 % participation), 328 were faculty and 65 were staff. Most were white and never smokers, average age 50 years, with about half being male. Overall, about one third of the participants reported symptoms of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or attacks of coughing. About half reported anyone of these symptoms. Upper respiratory symptoms, such as nasal and sinus symptoms and throat irritation, and itchy or burning eyes were reported by half to two-thirds of the participants overall. Most of the reported symptoms had onset after starting work at NCC, and about half of those who reported symptoms noted them to be work-related (either less severe or required less medication away from work). Overall, 17% of the participants reported physician-diagnosed asthma, with about half of those noting it to be post-hire onset or exacerbated by work. The prevalence of diagnosed asthma reported by those aged 35-65 years among faculty and staff respondents was 18%, compared to 10% reported overall by New York state residents of that age range. Symptom prevalences by building group showed marked differences. Employees in the 1970s buildings (those with a history of water damage) reported substantially higher prevalences of both lower and upper respiratory symptoms that were post-hire and work-related. The prevalence of any chest symptoms post-hire was 44% for the, 1970s buildings versus 14% for the older buildings (p-value < 0.05) and 21 % for the new building (p-value < 0.05). Worked-related prevalences were 34, 3 and 19%, respectively (statistical significance for 1970s compared to older buildings, p-Value < 0.05). Post-hire upper respiratory symptoms were not greatly different across buildings, at 72,69 and 56%, respectively (statistical significance for 1970s compared to newer building, p-value < 0.05). However, the prevalence of work-related upper respiratory symptoms was higher in the 1970s buildings: 56% compared to 31 % for the older buildings (p-value < 0.05) and 35% for the newer building (p-value < 0.05). To explore the relationship between environmental factors in the rooms and reported symptoms and health complaints, we developed an exposure index based on reported time spent in the rooms and the assessments of stains, mold presence and odor, and moisture. Using statistical models that adjusted for employee status (faculty or staff), gender, age, cigarette smoking history, reported allergies, reported use of latex gloves, and the year of hire, we found clear evidence that symptom reporting was related to factors reflecting water damage and its sequelae. Significantly increased odds of having wheeze, chest tightness, shortness of breath, at least one chest symptom, and nasal and sinus symptoms were all related to recorded presence of visible mold (p-values < 0.05). Water stain also was associated with nasal and sinus symptoms and throat irritation (p-value < 0.05). Mold odor was associated with throat irritation and any upper respiratory symptoms or eye irritation (p-value < 0.05). Although elevated odds ratios were frequently found for moisture presence, none were statistically significant. For participating faculty and staff within the Nursing Department (N=26), 54% reported lower respiratory symptoms and 73% reported upper respiratory symptoms or eye irritation while they were working in Cluster F. After the Nursing Department moved out of Cluster F in the early months of the year 2000, 36% of those who reported having chest symptoms prior to the move reported that their symptoms or breathing problems had either lessened or disappeared after they moved. This improvement, however, was not reflected in the reporting of upper respiratory symptoms. Overall, the results show high prevalences of lower and upper respiratory symptoms among employees of Nassau Community College, including an excess of asthma compared to state rates. Much of the reported prevalence was likely work-related, either in terms of post-hire onset or exacerbation at work, and was confirmed by evidence from medical records of affected individuals. There were obvious differences in the environmental factors across buildings. Reduction in lower respiratory symptoms was observed among a small subset who moved from, the affected buildings. Finally, there was clear evidence of association of health conditions with environmental factors, including higher symptom prevalences in water-damaged buildings and in association with exposure indices based on factors related to water damage and mold growth. Together, these provide convincing evidence that building-related disease has occurred at Nassau Community...
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(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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