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HHE Search Results
283 HHE reports were found based on your search terms. Reports are listed in order of year published with the most recently published reports listed first.
Year Published and Title
(2009) Employees' exposures to welding fumes and powder paint dust during metal furniture manufacturing. (Click to open report) On April 6, 2007, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Dehler Manufacturing, Inc., (Dehler) in Chicago, Illinois. Employees were concerned about exposure to welding fumes and dust from powder painting and grinding operations. During our initial site visit on June 28-29, 2007, we met with management and employee representatives; toured the facility; observed work processes, use of PPE, and existing engineering controls; and interviewed 10 employees. We collected bulk sampl... (Click to show more)On April 6, 2007, NIOSH received a confidential employee request for an HHE at Dehler Manufacturing, Inc., (Dehler) in Chicago, Illinois. Employees were concerned about exposure to welding fumes and dust from powder painting and grinding operations. During our initial site visit on June 28-29, 2007, we met with management and employee representatives; toured the facility; observed work processes, use of PPE, and existing engineering controls; and interviewed 10 employees. We collected bulk samples of powder paint for particle sizing and to check for silica and asbestos content. Two of the 10 employees we interviewed reported symptoms we determined were not related to exposures in the workplace. They described episodic transient shortness of breath that lasted a few minutes and also affected members of their families who were not Dehler employees. Their condition did not improve when they were away from work. Two other employees reported eye and throat irritation. The remaining six employees reported no symptoms. Although the bulk powder paint samples did not contain silica or asbestos, we decided a return survey was needed to evaluate exposures to welding fumes, powder paint, noise, and heat stress. During the follow-up evaluation on September 18-20, 2007, we collected PBZ air samples for carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide on welders, and for elements (metals) on welders and grinders. We also collected PBZ samples for carbon monoxide on two grinders. For the painters, we collected PBZ air samples for TGIC, respirable dust, and total dust. We measured the face velocity on door openings to the paint booth, the capture velocity on a welding fume extractor, and noise levels throughout the facility. We also evaluated heat stress in the paint room. We interviewed the nine painters who were available and provided them with self-recording PEF meters. We were interested in knowing if the painters' breathing was affected by TGIC in powder paint. These meters provide an indication of airway obstruction. Of the 38 PBZ samples for elements collected on MIG welders, seven exceeded the ACGIH TLV of 200 microg/m3 for manganese, and an additional eight samples were at least at half of the TLV. Concentrations of the remaining elements in the welding fumes were below applicable OELs. Of the 16 PBZ air samples for carbon monoxide collected on welders, four exceeded the NIOSH ceiling limit of 200 ppm. Despite painting for only 80 to 300 minutes, four of eight painters were exposed to TGIC above the ACGIH 8-hour TLV-TWA of 0.05 mg/m3. One painter's exposure to TGIC exceeded the protection factor of the filtering facepiece respirator he was wearing. Had employees applied paint containing TGIC for 8 hours or longer at the same application rate (as is commonly done for a larger work order), at least six of the eight painters would have been overexposed to TGIC. Two of 15 PBZ air samples for respirable dust collected on painters exceeded the OSHA 8-hour PEL-TWA of 5 mg/m3, and 7 of 13 PBZ air samples for total dust exceeded the OSHA 8-hour PEL-TWA of 15 mg/m3. Talc was not detected in the respirable dust air samples collected on painters. The WBGT in the paint room did not exceed NIOSH recommended heat stress exposure limits, but at times the dry bulb temperature in the paint room exceeded 100 degrees F. On the day of our evaluation, the outdoor temperature was 77 degrees F, so it is possible that on warmer days the NIOSH RELs may be exceeded because the production area is not air-conditioned. Noise levels exceeded 85 dBA during grinding, welding, and painting, and at most presses occasionally exceeded 90 dBA. Hearing protection was required in the press area, but some employees were observed not wearing it, or wearing ear plugs that were not properly inserted. Two of the nine painters interviewed had PEF readings with a variability of 20% or more, which may suggest asthma. One of the two painters reported having symptoms of shortness of breath, which predated employment at Dehler, and had reportedly not worsened since employment. Because these employees only had Sundays off during the period of the PEF recordings, we are unable to determine if the PEF rates would have improved while away from work. A single day away from work is not sufficient to observe such changes if present. We are therefore unable to make a determination on work-relatedness of this finding. Our evaluation did not identify any painter who had definitive work-related respiratory disease or symptoms. However, we recommended to the two painters with increased variability of their daily peak flow readings that they consult their physician for further evaluation to determine if their bronchial hyperresponsiveness was related to workplace exposures. We also recommend that management take steps to prevent employee sensitization to TGIC. We recommend using powder paints that do not contain TGIC and welding wire that does not contain manganese. The paint booth should be further enclosed to better contain the powder paint, and the painters should be provided with a higher level of respiratory protection until exposures can be reduced through engineering or administrative controls. Painters should avoid skin contact with powder paint that contains TGIC because it is also a skin sensitizer and can cause allergic contact dermatitis and asthma. Management should inform employees about the risks of working with TGIC. We recommend installing spot cooling fans and exhaust fans in the paint booth room to control heat stress, and exhaust fans in the welding area to remove welding fumes. We recommend that management conduct noise monitoring to determine employees' full-shift TWA noise exposures, and ensure employees wear hearing protection properly while in designated hazardous noise areas. We also recommend that an ergonomics consultant be hired to assess work tasks and provide recommendations for reducing the number of ergonomic injuries.
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(2008) Exposures at a pottery shop. (Click to open report) On February 2, 2007, NIOSH received a management request for an HHE at FUNKe Fired Arts, previously known as Annie's Mud Pie Shop, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Although no health symptoms were reported, management was concerned about the potential for employees' long-term exposure to a variety of substances while performing duties at the pottery shop. Exposures of concern included silica from the clay mixing process, elements from mixing dry materials used in the glazes, and VOCs and gases during kiln f... (Click to show more)On February 2, 2007, NIOSH received a management request for an HHE at FUNKe Fired Arts, previously known as Annie's Mud Pie Shop, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Although no health symptoms were reported, management was concerned about the potential for employees' long-term exposure to a variety of substances while performing duties at the pottery shop. Exposures of concern included silica from the clay mixing process, elements from mixing dry materials used in the glazes, and VOCs and gases during kiln firing. Because management requires the use of respirators during clay and glaze mixing, they also requested information on proper respirator use and maintenance. On March 21, 2007, NIOSH investigators held an opening conference and toured the facility to review work processes. On April 11, 12, and May 24, 2007, NIOSH investigators collected eight 8-hour PBZ samples and six area air samples for respirable particulates and silica. Six separate PBZ samples were taken while employees performed specific dust-generating tasks. Wipe sampling for elements was conducted throughout the facility. An ergonomic evaluation of the work processes was performed. During the firing of the kilns, area air samples were taken for elements, NO2, SO2, CO, CO2, and VOCs. CO readings were also taken during forklift activities. None of the PBZ or area air samples exceeded the OSHA PELs or NIOSH RELs for any of the compounds measured, although one employee's exposure for silica was at the NIOSH REL of 0.05 mg/m3. Tasks that created the highest concentrations of respirable silica and particulates included moving bags of raw materials to and from storage and mixing clay. Short-term concentrations of silica were high, reaching 2.0 mg/m3 over 96 minutes of sampling. This exceeded ACGIH's excursion limit of 5 times the TWA TLV. VOCs, NO2, and SO2 concentrations were not detected above the MDC during the kiln-firing process. Although PBZ samples of CO were not taken during the use of the forklift, real-time area CO measurements taken at breathing zone level in the storage room peaked at 204 ppm, exceeding the NIOSH ceiling limit of 200 ppm. Due to the silica content of the clay and the potential for silica exposures to exceed OELs, we recommend using engineering controls to reduce employee exposures. This includes installing LEV in areas where high dust-generating activities take place and improving general building ventilation to allow adequate intake of outdoor air, mixing of indoor air, and dilution of potential airborne contaminants. Engineering controls are the preferred method over respirator use to reduce exposures to workplace contaminants. However, respirators should be used, and a formal respiratory protection program should be implemented until exposures can be reduced below the NIOSH REL and ACGIH excursion limit for silica. We also recommend establishing a health and safety training program for employees on appropriate equipment use and hazards. We further recommend that employees and students practice good hygiene in the workplace. Regular preventive maintenance for the forklift should be performed, eventually transitioning to a low or no emission forklift, and loading dock doors should be kept open while using the forklift to prevent the build-up of CO.
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(2008) Headlee Roofing, Mesa, Arizona. (Click to open report) On November 15, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers Local 135 to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) for employees of Headlee Roofing in Mesa, Arizona. The request listed silica and noise as potential hazards to roofers. This is one of four HHEs examining silica and noise exposures among roofers in Arizona. On January 11-13, 2005, NIOSH investigators conducted an HHE at... (Click to show more)On November 15, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers Local 135 to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) for employees of Headlee Roofing in Mesa, Arizona. The request listed silica and noise as potential hazards to roofers. This is one of four HHEs examining silica and noise exposures among roofers in Arizona. On January 11-13, 2005, NIOSH investigators conducted an HHE at a residential work site in Mesa, Arizona. Dust and noise measurements were taken during residential roofing operations. In addition, bulk samples of tile dust were collected to determine the silica content. NIOSH investigators selected four homes where employees were cutting and laying tiles throughout the day and took noise measurements and simultaneous full-shift personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples for total and respirable dust. They also evaluated a saw equipped with local exhaust ventilation (LEV) and a saw not equipped with LEV typically used by the workers, using PBZ sampling and real-time monitoring of particle size and particle counts. Noise exposures for all seven roofers exceeded the NIOSH recommended exposure limit. Two employees exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit, and all seven employees exceeded the OSHA action limit. The 8-hour time-weighted averages (TWA) for the total dust samples ranged from 1.2 to 5.4 mg/m3. The eight PBZ respirable dust concentrations ranged from 0.32 to 1.8 mg/m3, with a mean of 1.3 mg/m3. The 8-hour TWAs for respirable dust ranged from 0.2 to 1.8 mg/m3. Respirable silica samples ranged from 0.057 to 0.27 mg/m3, with a mean of 0.2 mg/m3. The respirable silica 8-hour TWAs ranged from 0.04 to 0.25 mg/m3. The LEV-equipped saw was not effective in reducing worker exposures to acceptable levels during cutting operations. Medical screening was conducted February 22-24, 2005. Employees from all four roofing companies were invited to participate if they had at least 5 years of experience as a roofer. The medical screening included a questionnaire, lung function test (i.e., spirometry), and a chest x-ray. Of the 118 employees who participated in all three tests, six were from Headlee Roofing. Most roofers who participated in the medical screening had normal lung function. None of those with abnormal lung function had moderate or severe impairments. After controlling for the effects of smoking, NIOSH investigators found that lung function decreased with increasing years of dry cutting cement tiles. No chest x-rays showed findings consistent with silicosis. NIOSH investigators determined that an occupational health hazard due to exposures to respirable silica and noise existed for employees of Headlee Roofing. Recommendations for controlling workplace exposures include reducing or eliminating exposures by implementing engineering controls and enforcing the use of personal protective equipment under the OSHA respirator program guidelines. The employer should develop a training program regarding the potential health hazards of respirable silica exposure and institute a medical monitoring program per the OSHA Special Emphasis Program for Silicosis. Additional recommendations are included at the end of this report.
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(2008) Petersen-Dean Roofing Systems, Phoenix, Arizona. (Click to open report) On October 29, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers Local 135 to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) among Petersen-Dean Roofing Systems employees at a job site in Phoenix, Arizona. The request listed silica and noise as potential hazards to roofers. This is one of four HHE requests received from the union asking NIOSH to examine silica and noise exposures among roofers ... (Click to show more)On October 29, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers Local 135 to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) among Petersen-Dean Roofing Systems employees at a job site in Phoenix, Arizona. The request listed silica and noise as potential hazards to roofers. This is one of four HHE requests received from the union asking NIOSH to examine silica and noise exposures among roofers in Arizona. On January 11-12, 2005, NIOSH investigators conducted an HHE at a residential work site in Phoenix, Arizona. Dust and noise measurements were taken during residential roofing operations. In addition, bulk samples of roof tile dust were collected to determine the silica content. NIOSH investigators selected homes where employees were cutting and laying roof tiles throughout the day. Noise exposures for the five roofers ranged from 85.5 to 96.3 decibels on an A-weighted scale (dBA). All full-shift time-weighted average (TWA) noise values exceeded the NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL), three exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) action level (AL), and none exceeded the OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL). The 8-hour TWA for the total dust samples collected on employees ranged from 1.7 to 16 mg/m3, and for respirable dust samples, from 0.3 to 2.9 mg/m3. The respirable silica 8-hour TWAs collected on employees ranged from 0.04 to 0.44 mg/m3. One TWA for total dust exceeded the OSHA PEL of 15 mg/m3 for particulate not otherwise regulated. Respirable dust sampling results indicate that four of seven TWAs exceeded the general industry OSHA PEL, and three TWAs exceeded the construction industry OSHA PEL for respirable silica. Six of the seven TWAs for respirable silica also indicated concentrations exceeding NIOSH and the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists criteria. Three TWA noise values exceeded the OSHA AL of 85 dBA, and all TWA results exceeded the NIOSH REL. Medical screening was conducted on February 22-24, 2005. Employees from all four roofing companies were invited to participate if they had at least 5 years of experience as a roofer. The medical screening included a questionnaire, lung function test (spirometry), and a chest x-ray. Of the 118 employees who participated in all three tests, 13 were Petersen-Dean employees. Most roofers who participated in the medical screening had normal lung function. None of those with abnormal lung function had moderate or severe impairments. After controlling for the effects of smoking, NIOSH investigators found that lung function decreased with increasing years of dry cutting cement tiles. No chest x-rays showed findings consistent with silicosis. An occupational health hazard due to exposures to respirable silica and noise existed for employees of Petersen-Dean Roofing Systems. Recommendations for controlling workplace exposures include reducing or eliminating exposures by implementing engineering controls and enforcing the use of personal protective equipment under the OSHA respirator program guidelines. The employer should develop a training program regarding the potential health hazards of respirable silica exposure, and establish an employee medical monitoring program as specified by the OSHA Special Emphasis Program for Silicosis. Additional recommendations are included at the end of this report.
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(2007) COL-FIN Specialty Steel, Fallston, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) On February 27, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the United Steelworkers of America Local 9305 for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at COL-FIN Specialty Steel (COL-FIN) in Fallston, Pennsylvania. The union was concerned about inadequate ventilation in the pickling and annealing areas and other potential health hazards throughout the whole plant. On November 11, 2003, NIOSH investigators made an initial visit to the facility to meet w... (Click to show more)On February 27, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the United Steelworkers of America Local 9305 for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at COL-FIN Specialty Steel (COL-FIN) in Fallston, Pennsylvania. The union was concerned about inadequate ventilation in the pickling and annealing areas and other potential health hazards throughout the whole plant. On November 11, 2003, NIOSH investigators made an initial visit to the facility to meet with union and management representatives, tour the facility to understand the manufacturing process, and observe work practices. Between March 8 and March 12, 2004, NIOSH investigators returned to COL-FIN to conduct environmental sampling and medical interviews with employees. Area and personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples for respirable particulates and acids (sulfuric and hydrochloric) were collected during the annealing, pickling, and hot etching of steel coils. Area and PBZ air samples for respirable particulates from soap powder and metal working fluids (MWFs) were collected when employees were drawing, straightening, and grinding the steel coils. Respirable particulate samples were also analyzed for crystalline silica. Spot measurements for carbon monoxide (CO) were taken in the annealing area. In addition, personal noise measurements were made on employees during the annealing, drawing, straightening, and grinding processes. Material handlers, who transport steel coils on gas-powered forklifts throughout the production area were assessed for exposure to noise, respirable particulates, silica, CO, and acids. A short-term sample for hydrochloric acid collected during the etching process exceeded the NIOSH and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ceiling limits; sulfuric acid levels were below all occupational exposure limits (OELs). Respirable particulate and silica levels were also below all OELs. Spot measurements for CO ranged up to 18 parts per million. Area and PBZ air samples collected in the grinding and shaving areas were above the NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL) for MWFs; the local exhaust ventilation units for the grinding and shaving equipment were not functioning as intended. The personal noise dosimetry data showed that noise levels for two material handlers exceeded the OSHA action level of 85 decibels on an A-weighted scale. Many employees' noise levels also exceeded the more protective NIOSH REL. Thirty-five workers were interviewed. Many workers reported respiratory (66%) and skin problems (31%) consistent with exposure to MWFs and other occupational exposures. Over half of interviewed workers were current smokers. Smoking occurred throughout the plant, exposing non-smokers to secondhand smoke. Exposures to excessive levels of noise and MWFs, as well as exposure to secondhand smoke, constitute a health hazard at COL-FIN. Employees reported respiratory and dermal problems consistent with their occupational exposures. NIOSH investigators recommend enrolling COL-FIN employees in a hearing conservation program and banning smoking inside the facility. NIOSH investigators also recommend servicing the local exhaust ventilation units in the grinding and shaving areas to reduce exposure to MWFs and establishing a medical monitoring program for workers exposed to MWFs.
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(2006) Diversified Roofing Inc., Phoenix, Arizona. (Click to open report) On March 31, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) from the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers Local 135 at Diversified Roofing Inc. in Phoenix, Arizona. The request stated that employees were exposed to hazardous levels of dust, particularly crystalline silica, while cutting cement tiles. A concern was also raised about the lack of training and use of personal protective equipment. ... (Click to show more)On March 31, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) from the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers, and Allied Workers Local 135 at Diversified Roofing Inc. in Phoenix, Arizona. The request stated that employees were exposed to hazardous levels of dust, particularly crystalline silica, while cutting cement tiles. A concern was also raised about the lack of training and use of personal protective equipment. An initial site visit was conducted on April 29-30, 2003. This visit included observations of the tile cutting process, collection of bulk samples of tile dust, and spot measurements of dust, noise, and carbon monoxide (CO) levels. A second site visit was conducted on June 16-18, 2003. Respirable and total dust, respirable silica, noise, and CO were monitored on employees performing roof installation. All employees who were monitored were asked questions on general health symptoms, work practices, and use of personal protective equipment. Eight full-shift personal noise samples, eight full-shift personal breathing zone (PBZ) air samples for CO, sixteen full-shift PBZ air samples for respirable dust and silica, and nineteen full-shift PBZ air samples for total dust were collected over the 2 days. The noise exposure results showed that all of the employees' exposures were over the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL), 63% (5 of 8) exceeded the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Action Level, and 38% (3 of 8) were over the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for noise. The CO exposure results showed that all of the employees' exposures were below the REL time-weighted average; one employee's exposure exceeded the NIOSH ceiling level. The respirable silica (quartz) exposure results showed that 88% (14 of 16) of the employees' levels exceeded the NIOSH REL and American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists threshold limit value, and 75% (12 of 16) exceeded the OSHA PEL for respirable silica. The total dust exposures ranged from 0.68 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) to 13 mg/m3. The respirable dust exposures ranged from 0.23 mg/m3 to 2.3 mg/m3. During the initial site visit informal employee interviews revealed that the duration of employment ranged from a few weeks to 7 years. Most of the employees reported wearing hard hats and eye protection regularly; respirators and hearing protection were infrequently worn. None of the employees reported that they knew the hazards of silica overexposure even though some employees reported respiratory symptoms consistent with silica overexposures, such as difficulty breathing and/or cough. A follow-up visit was conducted February 22-24, 2005, to perform the medical screening component of the HHE. Employees were invited to participate if they had at least 5 years experience as a roofer. Duration of dry cutting was used as a marker for duration of respirable silica exposure. The medical screening included a questionnaire, lung function test (i.e., spirometry), and a chest x-ray. NIOSH personnel read the questionnaire aloud to participants in their primary language. Spirometry results were reviewed by a NIOSH pulmonologist. The chest x-rays were interpreted by NIOSH certified B-readers according to the standards set forth by the International Labor Organization for grading work-related lung disease chest x-rays. Most roofers who participated in the medical screening had normal lung function. Of those with abnormal lung function, none had moderate or severe impairments. After controlling for the effects of smoking, it was found that lung function decreased with increasing years of dry cutting cement tiles. No chest x-rays showed findings consistent with silicosis. Previous air sampling confirmed that all employees on the roof when tile cutting was occurring could be overexposed to respirable silica, placing them at risk for silicosis. It is vital to institute OSHA-mandated employee protection programs to protect workers from further exposure to respirable silica. Employee monitoring for silicosis should also be started as per the recommendations set forth in OSHA's Special Emphasis Project for Silicosis. NIOSH investigators determined that an occupational health hazard due to exposures to respirable silica and noise existed for workers at Diversified Roofing Inc. Recommendations for controlling workplace exposures include reducing or eliminating exposures by implementing engineering controls and enforcing the use of personal protective equipment under the OSHA respirator program guidelines. Employees need education regarding the potential health hazards of respirable silica exposure, and an employee monitoring program as per the OSHA Special Emphasis Program on silica should be implemented. Additional recommendations are included at the end of this report.
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(2006) New Orleans Fire Department, New Orleans, Louisiana. (Click to open report) In October 2005, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) from the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 632 (IAFF). This HHE request concerned health hazards from exposure to the floodwater and sediment and the mental health of fire fighters following the NOFD's response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Reported health problems included respiratory, throat, and s... (Click to show more)In October 2005, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) from the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) and the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 632 (IAFF). This HHE request concerned health hazards from exposure to the floodwater and sediment and the mental health of fire fighters following the NOFD's response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Reported health problems included respiratory, throat, and sinus irritation; and symptoms suggestive of depression and anxiety. NIOSH representatives conducted a survey to evaluate health concerns among fire fighters; 525 NOFD personnel participated in the survey. This self-administered questionnaire contained questions about demographics, job characteristics, lifestyle, work duties and location, hurricane-related activities, and symptoms that occurred during and after the hurricanes. The Center for Epidemiologic Study-Depression scale (CES-D) was used to assess symptoms associated with depression, and the Veterans Administration posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) checklist was used to define posttraumatic stress symptoms among participants. Of the 525 fire fighters who completed the questionnaire (77% participation), 201 (38%) reported one or more new-onset respiratory symptoms, such as sinus congestion (145 [28%]), throat irritation (92 [17%]) and cough (124 [24%]). Skin rash was reported by 258 (49%) of respondents, 414 (79%) reported skin contact with floodwater, 165 (32%) reported they had contact with floodwater on multiple days, 133 of 493 respondents (27%) had major depressive symptoms, and 114 of 518 (22%) showed posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. In multivariate analyses adjusting for age, gender, and smoking, fire fighters who had floodwater contact with skin and either eyes or nose/mouth (224, 44%) had increased risk of new-onset upper respiratory symptoms (prevalence ratio [PR]=1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-3.1) and skin rash (PR=2.1; 95% CI, 1.4-3.2) compared to those not exposed to the floodwater. Depressive symptoms were associated with new-onset lower respiratory symptoms (PR=1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-3.0), skin rash (PR=1.7; 95% CI, 1.2-2.6) and low supervisor support (PR=1.6; 95% CI, 1.1-2.3). Fire fighters housed with their family were less likely to report depressive symptoms (PR=0.7; 95% CI, 0.5-1.0) compared to those not living with their family. Higher prevalence of PTSD symptoms were reported from fire fighters involved in one or more gunshot incidents (PR=2.4; 95% CI, 1.6-3.7), guard duty (PR=1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.7), and body retrieval (PR=1.7; 95% CI, 1.1-2.6). The results of the questionnaire survey showed that fire fighters who reported floodwater contact with their skin and nose/mouth or eyes for longer than a few hours at the time of the hurricanes reported significantly more upper respiratory symptoms than those who reported no contact with the floodwater. Fire fighters with respiratory symptoms and skin rash also reported more depressive symptoms than those without respiratory symptoms and skin rash. Fire fighters involved in gun shot incidents and body retrieval in response to the hurricanes were more likely to report PTSD symptoms. Clinical follow-up of affected fire fighters for physical and psychological conditions should be implemented. This report, along with the environmental survey conducted at the Jackson Barracks temporary staging area (Appendix A) should be construed as the final report. The environmental evaluation looked at fire fighter activities during simulated apparatus runs, and included air sampling to evaluate fire fighter exposures to dust. For the fire fighters working out of the Jackson Barracks temporary staging area, airborne exposures to respirable particulates and silica, total particulates, and elements (metals and minerals) were below all applicable exposure criteria. NIOSH investigators determined that a work-related hazard existed among New Orleans fire fighters due to Hurricane Katrina-related exposures. We found that physical and mental health symptoms were associated with work-related exposures. This report includes recommendations pertaining to these findings.
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(2005) Kewaunee Fabrications, LLC, Kewaunee, Wisconsin. (Click to open report) On September 3, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the management at Kewaunee Fabrications, LLC, Kewaunee, Wisconsin. The request asked NIOSH to evaluate employee exposures to hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) during spray painting. Additionally, exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulates, and silica was measured. Two ventilation systems were examined and confidential medical interviews wi... (Click to show more)On September 3, 2004, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the management at Kewaunee Fabrications, LLC, Kewaunee, Wisconsin. The request asked NIOSH to evaluate employee exposures to hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) during spray painting. Additionally, exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulates, and silica was measured. Two ventilation systems were examined and confidential medical interviews with 13 employees were performed. Full-shift air samples for HDI, VOCs, particulates, and silica were collected between December 13-15, 2004. No air samples collected for HDI monomer exceeded the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) of 35 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3). There is no Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for HDI monomer or other species of HDI. However, the United Kingdom Health and Safety Executive (UK-HSE) does publish a Total Reactive Isocyanate Group (TRIG) 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) criteria of 20 microg/m3 and a Ceiling Limit criteria of 70 microg/m3. Of the 15 painters sampled for HDI exposure, six workers' had PBZ levels that exceeded the UK-HSE TRIG 8-hour TWA criteria of 20 microg/m3 while four workers' HDI levels exceeded the UK-HSE TRIG Ceiling Limit criteria of 70 microg/m3. Workers wore supplied air respirators, full-body Tyvek suits, boot covers, and latex gloves while spray painting, so actual exposure to airborne HDI may be lower. However, latex gloves do not provide adequate protection against HDI and other solvents used in the paint shops. Two sanding/prep workers' particulate exposure levels exceeded the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Value (TLV), (10 milligrams per cubic meter of air [mg/m3]). Levels for another worker engaged in the same activity also exceeded the OSHA PEL of 15 mg/m3. No silica (quartz and cristobalite) was found in these samples. Disposable filtering-facepiece respirators were available on a voluntary basis and sporadically used by some workers engaged in sanding/prep activities. All samples collected for VOCs were well below relevant occupational exposure criteria. Air velocities, measured at the exhaust outlets, were three to seven times higher in the West paint shop than in the East paint shop. This likely accounted for the lower airborne concentration of HDI in the West paint shop. No consistent respiratory symptoms were noted among the 13 workers interviewed, and symptoms reported were not those commonly found among workers exposed to HDI. However, a common work practice reported by workers involved the use of methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) to wash their skin and remove paint. This practice should be discontinued because MEK can be absorbed through the skin. NIOSH investigators conclude that a health hazard exists from exposure to particulates during the sanding/prep work activity and the use of solvents such as MEK to clean skin. Recommendations to increase the level of protection for workers engaged in sanding/prep activities include mandatory use of NIOSH-approved, single-use filtering-face piece N-95 respirators. Additionally, exhaust ventilation in the East paint shop should be increased to at least 100 feet per minute (fpm), as an average air velocity across the exhaust outlet to reduce the potential health hazard from exposure to isocyanates.
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(2005) Lehigh Portland Cement Company, Union Bridge, Maryland. (Click to open report) On October 8, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the management of Lehigh Portland Cement Company in Union Bridge, Maryland, to conduct an evaluation of employee exposure to airborne dust. This request was made to ensure safe work conditions for employees after the company moved into a new facility. The evaluation was conducted on April 13 and 14, 2004. Full-shift personal breathing air zone samples for total and respirable dusts were ... (Click to show more)On October 8, 2003, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the management of Lehigh Portland Cement Company in Union Bridge, Maryland, to conduct an evaluation of employee exposure to airborne dust. This request was made to ensure safe work conditions for employees after the company moved into a new facility. The evaluation was conducted on April 13 and 14, 2004. Full-shift personal breathing air zone samples for total and respirable dusts were collected from 19 employees over a 2-day period. In addition to particulate weight, total dust samples were analyzed for metal content, and respirable dust samples were analyzed for silica content. Area air samples were collected in five locations throughout the facility. In addition, bulk samples representing various types of dusts present at the facility were analyzed for metal and silica content. Five of the nineteen total dust samples exceeded the Mine Safety and Health Administration Permissible Exposure Limit of 10 mg/m3. The respirable dust samples did not exceed any exposure limits. In the total dust samples, aluminum, calcium, manganese, magnesium, titanium, sodium, and iron were present in quantifiable amounts. None of these metals exceeded any recommended or regulatory standards. Silica (quartz and cristobalite) was not present in any of the personal air samples. NIOSH investigators have determined that a health hazard exists at this facility due to overexposure to dust. This report contains recommendations to reduce worker exposure to the dust. This includes use of respirators in dusty areas.
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(2005) U.S. Department of Transportation, St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, Massena, New York. (Click to open report) In October 2001, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a joint labor/management request to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Dwight D. Eisenhower and Bertrand H. Snell Locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway, near Massena, New York. The request described "flu-like symptoms" and "general ill health" as concerns among workers exposed to stagnant water and decaying marine life during the annual winter inspection, cleaning, and repairs of the locks. Anothe... (Click to show more)In October 2001, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a joint labor/management request to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Dwight D. Eisenhower and Bertrand H. Snell Locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway, near Massena, New York. The request described "flu-like symptoms" and "general ill health" as concerns among workers exposed to stagnant water and decaying marine life during the annual winter inspection, cleaning, and repairs of the locks. Another impetus for the request was the collapse of one worker at the bottom of a lock during the previous winter. During site visits in 2002 and 2003, NIOSH investigators collected personal breathing zone (PBZ) and area air samples for endotoxins, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO), crystalline silica, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Endotoxin concentrations above relative limit values were measured on two workers. However, because these employees (both painters) left the worksite while wearing the monitoring equipment during part of their work shift, the exposures cannot be said to be work related. Peak PBZ H2S concentrations up to 87 parts per million (ppm) were measured while workers used pneumatic drills and jack hammers to remove deteriorating concrete from lock walls; the NIOSH recommended ceiling value is 10 ppm. Concentrations of CO, crystalline silica, and VOCs were below applicable NIOSH and OSHA occupational exposure limits. NIOSH investigators also concluded that the locks are confined spaces. NIOSH investigators identified 71 employees as having regular or intermittent exposure to the locks during winter work; 27 were interviewed or had information in their medical records that could be abstracted to identify disease trends or patterns. Most of the 27 workers reported a history of respiratory illness including bronchitis, pneumonia, or an aggravation of their asthma while working on the locks. Although several workers provided a history of seeing their health care provider for a winter illness, only two provided a history of having been hospitalized. Given the small percentage of workers who participated in this study, we cannot draw conclusions about the relationship between winter work activities and the risk of developing acute respiratory illnesses. NIOSH investigators conclude that some employees conducting winter work at the Dwight D. Eisenhower and Bertrand H. Snell Locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway are exposed to endotoxins, H2S, and VOCs. Acute respiratory illness due to H2S or VOC exposures at the levels measured during the NIOSH evaluation is unlikely. Recommendations are provided to consider the locks as confined spaces and to increase the ventilation inside the locks while winter work activities are conducted.
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