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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
(2000) Horry County Assessor's Office, Conway, South Carolina. (Click to open report) In December 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received health hazard evaluation (HHE) requests from employees working in a Horry County Administrative Building, Conway, South Carolina. These workers described a prior incident in 1999, which involved carbon monoxide (CO) exposures, as well as ongoing concerns with mold in the building. The employees believed that their symptoms, which included headache, sinus problems, and upper respiratory problems, were wor... (Click to show more)In December 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received health hazard evaluation (HHE) requests from employees working in a Horry County Administrative Building, Conway, South Carolina. These workers described a prior incident in 1999, which involved carbon monoxide (CO) exposures, as well as ongoing concerns with mold in the building. The employees believed that their symptoms, which included headache, sinus problems, and upper respiratory problems, were work related. A walk-through of the entire building was conducted March 27, 2000. Measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2), CO, temperature, and relative humidity (RH) were made and the ventilation systems were visually examined, including the condition of the air filters, coils, drain pan, and other interior components of two randomly selected heat pump units. Five bulk dust samples were collected by micro-vacuuming sections of carpet. Ten "sticky" tape samples were collected of suspect fungal colonies by using the adhesive side of the tape to pull spore structures and hyphae from the growth surface. Areas suspected of water damage (both exterior walls and carpeted floors near these walls) were probed with a moisture meter to qualitatively assess water content. Twelve of the approximately 115 employees volunteered for informal interviews. The highest CO2 concentrations ranged from 1030 to 1190 parts per million (ppm), suggesting that parts of the two story building may be receiving insufficient amounts of outside air. Temperature and RH levels ranged from 69 to 75 degrees F, and 35 to 53%, respectively, which were within the thermal comfort parameters recommended by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers. CO concentrations were very low, ranging from none-detected to 2 ppm. A new exhaust ventilation system in the boiler room, along with repairing cracks in the walls of the boiler room, were made to prevent CO from re-entering the building. Of the 12 employees interviewed, most reported respiratory problems (sinus problems or allergies), congestion, fatigue, and headache while working in the building. Several of the interviewed employees were also concerned with hair loss, high blood pressure, digestive problems, and joint pain which they believed were work-related. Many of those interviewed had been experiencing these symptoms since they first began working in this building. NIOSH investigators conclude that various indoor environmental quality deficiencies exist in this building, including inadequate amounts of outside air (OA) to some offices, localized microbial reservoirs, and numerous ongoing moisture incursion or moist conditions. It is unclear, however, how these conditions relate to the health complaints described by the interviewed employees. Recommendations are provided to further improve ventilation and eliminate the wet conditions conducive to microbial growth.
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(2000) OmniSource Corporation, precious metal recycling facility, Ft. Wayne, Indiana. (Click to open report) On November 1, 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a management request from OmniSource Corporation to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) to evaluate occupational exposure to silver at their company's precious metal recycling (PMR) facility in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. The request was prompted by concerns about one employee who had been diagnosed as having argyria, a blue-grey discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and/or eyes resulting from pro... (Click to show more)On November 1, 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a management request from OmniSource Corporation to conduct a health hazard evaluation (HHE) to evaluate occupational exposure to silver at their company's precious metal recycling (PMR) facility in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. The request was prompted by concerns about one employee who had been diagnosed as having argyria, a blue-grey discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and/or eyes resulting from prolonged silver exposure. Management also expressed concern about worker exposure to the fixer solution from which the silver is recovered. A site visit, conducted on January 10-11, 2000, consisted of an environmental and medical component. The environmental evaluation included a full-shift personal breathing-zone (PBZ) air sample to assess worker exposure to silver and 26 other metals and minerals and full-shift area air sampling to assess exposure to 26 different metals and minerals, glutaraldehyde, hydroquinone, and hydrogen cyanide. Qualitative ventilation measurements were also performed to determine airflow patterns. The medical evaluation consisted of a record review, employee interviews to assess a medical and occupational history, and focused physical examinations of each of the three PMR facility employees. The one full-shift PBZ sample taken on an operator revealed a time-weighted average (TWA) silver exposure of 0.14 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3), 14 times greater than the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and NIOSH exposure limit of 0.01 mg/m3 . Full-shift area air sampling revealed silver concentrations ranging from 0.009 to 0.19 mg/m3. All area samples, with the exception of one, had concentrations that exceeded the OSHA and NIOSH exposure limits. The PMR facility furnace operator wore a half-mask powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) in the furnace room and main PMR facility; however, respirators were not worn when employees were in the work station and office area, where silver concentrations ranged from 0.012 to 0.02 mg/m3. These levels exceed OSHA and NIOSH exposure limits. Full-shift area air sampling for glutaraldehyde, hydroquinone, and hydrogen cyanide revealed no detectable amounts of those substances. None of the 26 other metals or minerals analyzed for in the air samples exceeded any applicable exposure limit. The qualitative ventilation assessment indicated that the furnace room was under strong negative pressure, that should prevent silver dust and fume from escaping the room. However, silver was detected in area samples taken throughout the rest of the facility, suggesting that silver is migrating from the furnace room to other areas. Neither exhaust hood (one was in place over each of the two working furnaces) was operating during our visit. Fumes off-gassing from the furnaces could periodically be seen escaping the hoods. During the loading and unloading of the crucibles, the furnace room doors are left open and airborne silver may escape the room. Pressure tests indicated the work station and office area to be under neutral pressure. It is also possible that the furnace operators are unknowingly transferring silver from their clothes, gloves, and shoes to other areas of the facility. Of the three workers interviewed, none revealed health effects thought to be related to exposures at OmniSource other than the one worker with a diagnosis of argyria. However, based on the history provided by the worker with the skin lesion, it is unlikely that the lesion represents localized argyria. NIOSH investigators concluded that employees in the PMR facility are overexposed to silver when powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) are not worn. Although the furnace room is under negative pressure, it appears that airborne silver may be escaping the furnace room and migrating to other areas of the PMR facility, including the work station and office area where respirators are not usually worn. Recommendations are offered in this report for improved exhaust ventilation, personal protective equipment, general safety, and housekeeping in the workplace to decrease worker exposures. Medical recommendations to assess the body burden of silver are also included.
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(2000) Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island. (Click to open report) At the request of the Rhode Island Department of Health (RI DOH), we evaluated worker lead exposures during U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-funded residential lead hazard reduction in Rhode Island. RI DOH was concerned that workers might be unnecessarily wearing respirators and protective clothing during various tasks. The predominant work tasks in lead hazard reduction work have changed as, over the past several years, HUD has shifted the emphasis of its national program.... (Click to show more)At the request of the Rhode Island Department of Health (RI DOH), we evaluated worker lead exposures during U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-funded residential lead hazard reduction in Rhode Island. RI DOH was concerned that workers might be unnecessarily wearing respirators and protective clothing during various tasks. The predominant work tasks in lead hazard reduction work have changed as, over the past several years, HUD has shifted the emphasis of its national program. Participating contractors are performing less on-site removal of lead-based paint (LBP) and more component replacement and lead hazard reduction, i.e., replacement and renovating structures with the existing LBP left in place. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) evaluated worker lead exposures during various tasks at 20 homes undergoing lead hazard reduction from 1996-1998. The study included task-based and full-shift air monitoring, measurement of the lead contamination in workers' vehicles, and a review of the medical monitoring data reported to RI DOH. Results for workers' full-shift airborne lead exposures (PbA) were highly variable, ranging from 1.5 to 1100 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3, 20 samples). The maximum exposure was for dry scraping. The geometric mean (GM) full-shift lead exposure was 74 ug/m3 among workers who performed any scraping during the work shift. One hundred fifty-two task-based samples were obtained for 11 task categories; most of the samples were for interior work (average time 139 minutes). Task-based PbA exposures were highly variable, ranging from 0.17 to 2000 ug/m3. The GM PbA exposures by task ranged from 1.3 ug/m3 (yard work) to 150 ug/m3 (dry scraping). Within-task variability was high; in spite of this variability, task category was highly associated with logged PbA exposure (one-way ANOVA p <0.0001). Dry scraping and wet scraping tasks, which did not differ significantly, had the highest GM exposures. The actual full-shift exposures, which were obtained for a few single tasks, were generally similar to the GM exposures for the corresponding task-based samples. Four of the 11 tasks evaluated had estimated full-shift exposures above the Occupational Safety and Health Administration permissible exposure limit (PEL, 50 ug/m3): dry scraping, wet scraping, mixed surface prep, and caulking. It is likely that high levels during caulking represented collateral exposures from other dust-generating work in the houses. Estimated full-shift exposure for the other seven tasks, including painting, removal, replacement, cleaning, wet demolition, yard work, and set-up, were below the PEL. Relatively high lead dust accumulations were found on workers' hands. Lead contamination levels on the floors in workers' vehicles were high compared to a nonworker comparison group, suggesting that lead contamination may be carried into the vehicles from the work area. Among workers who had blood lead level (BLL) results reported, the results indicated that this group had higher BLLs than the general population, and 38% of workers and site supervisors had BLL results at or above 25 micrograms per deciliter. The results of this evaluation indicate that some changes in the contractors' respiratory protection programs should be made. While the respirators provided to workers (half-mask air-purifying respirators with a protection factor of 10) were appropriate for some of the tasks, a higher protection factor respirator is needed for wet or dry scraping tasks, as performed by participating contractors. Respirators should not be routinely required for the low hazard tasks, such as removal, replacement, cleaning, yard work, and set-up. Worker lead exposures during various lead hazard reduction tasks were highly variable. On average, lead exposures during dry scraping, wet scraping, mixed surface prep, removal, and caulking tasks were hazardous. Average lead exposures for removal, replacement, cleaning, wet demolition, yard work, and set-up tasks were below the PEL. Reported blood lead monitoring results indicated occupational exposure to lead, and that some licensed personnel, particularly site supervisors, had hazardous exposures. Hand surface levels indicated the potential for ingestion of lead, and lead contamination of workers' vehicles was measured. Recommendations are provided in this report to help prevent hazardous worker exposures to LBP.
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(2000) Southwest Airlines Dallas Reservations Center, Grand Prairie, Texas. (Click to open report) On December 7, 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for assistance in the evaluation of potential microbial contamination in the Southwest Airlines Dallas Reservations Center, Grand Prairie, Texas. A similar request had been previously received by NIOSH from employees of the reservations center. Health concerns included upper respiratory infections, fatigue, asthma, headaches, dry ... (Click to show more)On December 7, 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for assistance in the evaluation of potential microbial contamination in the Southwest Airlines Dallas Reservations Center, Grand Prairie, Texas. A similar request had been previously received by NIOSH from employees of the reservations center. Health concerns included upper respiratory infections, fatigue, asthma, headaches, dry cough, and ear/nose bleeds. On December 27-29, 1999, NIOSH investigators conducted a site visit at the reservations center. A walkthrough inspection was made of the building interior and exterior. Bulk material and sticky tape samples of surfaces were collected from the interior of the air handling units (AHUs) to assess these areas for microbial contamination. Measurements to detect moisture incursion and general indoor air quality comfort parameters were also collected. Confidential medical interviews were conducted to assess health concerns. Fungal concentrations from bulk material samples of interior insulation in the AHU units ranged from nondetectable (ND) to 1.8x107 colony forming units per gram of material (CFU/g). Exophiala, Rhodotorula glutinis, Acremonium, Cladosporium sphaerospermum, and Cladosporium herbarum were the predominant fungi identified. Four of the six bulk samples revealed high fungal concentrations and/or were identified with significant genera known to have irritant effects. Bacterial concentrations from the bulk insulation samples ranged from ND to 1.9x107 CFU/g. Gram negative bacteria were the most prevalent bacterial type detected and were found in the highest concentrations. Gram negative bacteria are commonly found in association with moisture. A tape sample taken from the laminated covering on the interior insulation within one of the AHUs revealed mostly dust, skin flakes, and glass fibers. No fungal growth was observed. Although temperatures measured in the reservations center were within the range recommended by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), different temperature zones and fluctuating temperature patterns were observed on the first and second floors. Relative humidity measurements were generally lower than the range recommended by ASHRAE. Several carbon dioxide measurements exceeded 800 parts per million (ppm), a level indicating an inadequate amount of supplied outdoor air. Based on medical interviews most of the cases of asthma began during childhood or were non-allergic in origin. Many workers reported symptoms suggestive of allergic upper respiratory diseases, however the characteristics of the symptoms suggest that a large proportion of the symptoms were non-allergic. Few workers had lower respiratory symptoms (cough, wheezing, shortness of breath) and did not have asthma. The diseases and symptoms reported are common in the population. There were no unique factors in this workplace that may cause worsening of allergic symptoms only in the workplace. Several workers reported increased number of infections (primarily viral infections) since they began work at Southwest Airlines (SWA). This may be due to exposure to infectious agents in the workplace. Few workers complained of headache and fatigue. Among the nonsmokers (never smokers and former smokers), 82% stated that smoke in the workplace caused annoying irritant symptoms. Based on the information and measurements obtained during this health hazard evaluation, NIOSH investigators conclude there is limited evidence of microbial contamination in the Dallas Reservations Center. Most of the health symptoms reported appear to be non-allergic in origin. There does not appear to be allergic diseases (including asthma) that can be attributed only to workplace exposures. There is evidence, however, that the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system may not be able to adequately service the building. Recommendations addressing the HVAC system, general ventilation concerns, cleaning procedures, and future water incursion incidents are included in the report.
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(2000) Southwest Airlines San Antonio Reservations Center, San Antonio, Texas. (Click to open report) In April 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for assistance in the evaluation of potential microbial contamination in the Southwest Airlines San Antonio Reservations Center (SRC), San Antonio, Texas. A similar request had been previously received by NIOSH from Southwest Airlines management. Employees in the SRC believed their health problems, which included upper respiratory infec... (Click to show more)In April 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for assistance in the evaluation of potential microbial contamination in the Southwest Airlines San Antonio Reservations Center (SRC), San Antonio, Texas. A similar request had been previously received by NIOSH from Southwest Airlines management. Employees in the SRC believed their health problems, which included upper respiratory infections, asthma, fatigue, headaches, chemical sensitivity, and loss of concentration and short-term memory, were related to working in this building. On June 28-30, 2000, NIOSH investigators conducted a site visit at the reservations center. A walk-through inspection was made of the building interior, exterior, and roof. Bulk material samples were collected from interior insulation in a supply duct above quadrant A, and bulk dust samples were collected on carpeted areas to assess microbial contamination. Surface samples using sticky tape were also collected beneath sinks in a women's restroom. Measurements to detect moisture incursion and general indoor air quality comfort parameters were collected, and a qualitative ventilation assessment was also performed. Confidential medical interviews were conducted to assess health concerns. Fungal concentrations from two bulk material samples of interior insulation in the supply duct above quadrant A ranged from less than the detectable limit (<758 colony forming units per gram of material [CFU/g]) to 7.1x10 4 CFU/g. Cladosporium cladosporioides was the fungi detected. Bacterial concentrations from the two bulk insulation samples were not detected (ND) (<758 CFU/g in one sample and <893 CFU/g in the other). Bulk dust samples yielded fungal levels ranging from 1.4x10 3 to 1.45x10 5 CFU/g. Pencillium, Acremonium, Cladosporium, and Alternaria alternata were the predominant fungi identified. One of the six bulk dust samples revealed increased fungal concentrations of Penicillium when compared with the other samples. Dust characterization showed samples consisted mainly of mineral crystals, skin flakes, and cellulose fibers. Sticky tape samples taken beneath the sinks in the women's restroom (closest to the break room) revealed mostly wood fibers with paint. However, fungal growth was observed in two of the five samples. This indicates that microbial growth is present. Temperatures were within the range recommended by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), with the exception of a few areas which varied by only 1 degree- 2 degrees F above or below the recommended range (73 degrees -79 degrees F). Relative humidity measurements were also within the range recommended by ASHRAE; however, almost half of the measurements closely approached the recommended upper limit. All carbon dioxide measurements were well below 800 parts per million (ppm), a level indicating an adequate amount of outdoor air is being supplied to the quadrant and office areas. Confidential interviews were conducted with 13 employees to assess their symptoms and health concerns. The most common symptoms reported by the employees were itchy watery eyes, runny nose, chronic sinus infections, headaches, and fatigue. Based on the information and measurements obtained during this Health Hazard Evaluation, NIOSH investigators conclude that a health hazard was not present at the time of the site visit, and that there is limited evidence of the presence of microbial growth in the SRC. There was no evidence that the health problems reported by employees were, on the whole, related to an exposure unique to the work environment. Recommendations addressing the carpet on the quadrant walls, the humidity levels, housekeeping procedures, and future water incursion incidents are included in the report.
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(2000) Spectro Coating Corporation, Leominster, MA. (Click to open report) The Spectro Coating Corporation applies flock to backing materials in one plant in Leominster, Massachusetts. The management requested a health hazard evaluation (HHE) to get a better understanding of the respiratory hazards in the plant. At the time of the request, an extensive HHE at another company's flocking facility in Rhode Island (NIOSH 1998) had uncovered a cluster of cases of a new occupational lung disease (flock workers' lung) [Kern et al. 1998]. In addition, one worker at Spectro Coa... (Click to show more)The Spectro Coating Corporation applies flock to backing materials in one plant in Leominster, Massachusetts. The management requested a health hazard evaluation (HHE) to get a better understanding of the respiratory hazards in the plant. At the time of the request, an extensive HHE at another company's flocking facility in Rhode Island (NIOSH 1998) had uncovered a cluster of cases of a new occupational lung disease (flock workers' lung) [Kern et al. 1998]. In addition, one worker at Spectro Coating had a diagnosis of the same illness. In November 1998, NIOSH conducted an investigation at the Spectro Coating plant consisting of a symptom and work history questionnaire and personal and area sampling, primarily for respirable dust (small enough to reach the deepest areas of the lungs) and fiber counts. Approximately 87% of the workers participated in the survey. The results and conclusions of the survey are as follows: The same types of particles identified at the Rhode Island plant were also present in air samples collected at Spectro Coating. Even though the dust concentrations were lower compared to those in the Rhode Island plant, blow-down exposures at Spectro Coating were associated with respiratory symptoms in workers. Blow-down cleaning with compressed air and flock-loading resulted in the highest dust concentrations measured in this workplace. Blow-down exposures were associated with an excess of fever/aches and cough/phlegm. Decreasing exposures should lead to decreased symptoms and complaints. Gravimetric respirable dust measurement appears to be a suitable method for characterizing concentrations in this setting. Smoking alone and in interaction with the exposures from compressed air cleaning was associated with symptoms. Respirator use was sporadic, and many workers had not been fit-tested. The following are specific recommendations for this workplace: Reduce dust exposures with engineering controls. Until engineering controls are in place, limit the use of blow-downs and use personal respiratory protection to control dust exposures. Expend the annual medical examination to include a means for identifying workers with frequent fever, aches, cough, phlegm, wheezing, or other respiratory symptoms. Workers with any of these symptoms should receive a medical evaluation and an opportunity to reduce dust exposures by placement out of high exposure jobs. Periodically inform workers about work-related disease observed among flock workers and how to reduce or control their risk of disease. Implement a no-smoking policy at the plant (NIOSH 1991). If allowed at all, smoking at the plant should be restricted to designated, seperately-ventilated smoking areas. Workers should be encouraged to stop smoking altogether through an employer-sponsored smoking cessation program and education campaign. NIOSH investigators determined that a health hazard exists from occupational exposure to flock-associated dust This risk is characterized by the occurrence of physician-diagnosed interstitial lung disease in at least one worker, and by the results of a respiratory symptom survey that suggest an association of respiratory and systemic symptoms with conducting compressed air cleaning (blow-downs). The hazard is related to dust exposure and is found to be the greatest in the flocking room. Reduction of worker exposure to airborne dust is recommended to protect the health of the workers at this plant.
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(2000) Thyssen-Dover Elevator, Middleton, Tennessee. (Click to open report) On March 14, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a joint management/union request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Thyssen-Dover Elevator facility in Middleton, Tennessee. The request asked NIOSH to determine if workplace exposures are related to health problems that some employees have experienced. Specific areas of concern identified in the request included both traditional welding and laser metal cutting processes. Reported symptoms were... (Click to show more)On March 14, 2000, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a joint management/union request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the Thyssen-Dover Elevator facility in Middleton, Tennessee. The request asked NIOSH to determine if workplace exposures are related to health problems that some employees have experienced. Specific areas of concern identified in the request included both traditional welding and laser metal cutting processes. Reported symptoms were muscle weakness, tingling fingers, weight loss, and diverticulitis. On May 1-3, 2000, NIOSH researchers conducted a site visit at the Thyssen-Dover Elevator facility. During the site visit, integrated personal air sampling was conducted to evaluate employee exposure to welding fume during the first and second work shifts in Departments 544, 543, 591, 597, and at the Bystronic laser. Instantaneous air samples were collected for carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and ozone (O3) at various locations in the manufacturing area. Bulk samples for asbestos analysis were obtained from ceiling insulation and the Department 544 oven. Company accident and illness records were reviewed. Confidential interviews were conducted with 24 first and second shift employees. The laser cutting operation was reviewed. The personal air sampling results showed that employees in Department 544 were exposed to total welding fume, above the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) threshold limit value (TLV) of 5 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m 3 ). Full shift time-weighted average (TWA) exposures for the two employees in this department were 5.44 mg/m3 and 6.10 mg/m3 . NIOSH recommends controlling welding fume to the lowest feasible concentration and meeting the exposure limit for each welding fume constituent. Element-specific analyses of the welding fume components showed that manganese exposure for the two Department 544 workers exceeded the ACGIH TLV of 0.2 mg/m3 on the day of the monitoring. TWA concentrations measured were 0.23 mg/m3 and 0.31 mg/m3 . The NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL) for manganese fume is 1.0 mg/m3 . One sample from a Department 544 welder found exposure to lead in excess of the 30 micrograms per cubic meter Action Level established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. No other samples indicated the presence of lead above the limit of quantification. The source of the lead was not determined. In general, air contaminant concentrations were lower during the second (evening) work shift. General dilution ventilation is the primary ventilation control at this facility. Carbon monoxide concentrations of 8-12 parts per million (ppm) were measured at various locations of the manufacturing area during the first shift. The NIOSH REL for CO is 35 ppm and the ACGIH TLV for CO is 25 ppm. The primary source of the CO is likely the propane-powered lift trucks. Low concentrations of NOx were measured at some welding stations and ozone was not detected in any of the samples. No asbestos was found in any of the bulk samples. A limited review of the laser cutting operation indicated that protective shielding to prevent eye exposure to beam radiation may not be adequate. Worker complaints were grouped into three general categories; gastro-intestinal symptoms, neurological symptoms, and chronic sinusitis. Symptoms that were reported appeared to be associated with the work (i.e., symptoms appeared after reporting for work and improved or resolved after the employee left work). However, no work exposures could be found that would be the primary cause of chronic sinusitis or gastrointestinal symptoms. Welders complained of neurologic symptoms that were suggestive of manganese poisoning. Manganese exposure levels measured during this site visit would not be expected to result in manganese poisoning, but higher past exposure levels, or chronic exposure to elevated manganese levels, may account for the symptoms described by welders at this plant. Industrial hygiene monitoring found Department 544 worker exposure to total welding fume and manganese in excess of established criteria. One sample from this department showed lead exposure in excess of regulatory criteria. Because the facility is an open manufacturing environment, incorporates numerous processes, and relies on general dilution ventilation as the primary control, the worker exposure profile in the manufacturing area is complex. Contaminant concentrations were generally lower on the second shift. Shielding to prevent eye exposure to beam radiation on a high power laser cutter may have been altered. Workers reported gastro-intestinal symptoms, neurological symptoms, and chronic sinusitis. The temporal pattern for the gastrointestinal and chronic sinusitis was consistent with a workplace exposure, however, no workplace exposures were found that would explain these symptoms. Manganese levels measured at this site would not be expected to result in the neurologic symptoms observed and/or reported, however, higher past exposures or chronic exposures over time may account for these symptoms. Recommendations to provide respiratory protection as an interim measure, improve ventilation, conduct additional monitoring, utilize welding shields, review and modify the laser cutter, and reduce carbon monoxide emissions are in the Recommendations section of this report.
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(2000) U.S. Airways/Charlotte Aircraft Support Center, Charlotte. (Click to open report) On September 15, 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential employee request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the U.S. Airways/Charlotte Aircraft Support Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The request indicated some employees at this location have experienced health problems possibly associated with their workplace. Health problems identified in the request included headaches, chest pain, sore throat, and eye irritation. The Composite... (Click to show more)On September 15, 1999, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a confidential employee request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE) at the U.S. Airways/Charlotte Aircraft Support Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The request indicated some employees at this location have experienced health problems possibly associated with their workplace. Health problems identified in the request included headaches, chest pain, sore throat, and eye irritation. The Composite Shop, Engine Shop, and Wheel and Brake Shop were identified as the primary areas of concern. Potential exposures identified included emissions from cleaning solvents during cleaning, repairing, and reassembling aircraft parts. A nearby landfill and emissions from contaminated groundwater were also identified as potential sources of exposures. On January 6-7, 2000, NIOSH investigators conducted an initial site visit at the Aircraft Support Center to review the current status of the health problems with plant workers and inspect the facility, observe work practices, and review chemical handling activities. During a follow up site visit on June 20-21, 2000, personal breathing zone (PBZ) air sampling was conducted to assess worker exposure to respirable and inhalable particulates and various metals. Bulk samples from the ventilation system in the sanding room and the brake teardown area were collected to determine the metals that were present. An area air sample for total fibers was obtained in the sanding room. All measured concentrations of air contaminants were below applicable NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limits (RELs), American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) threshold limit values (TLVs), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limits (PELs). Previous in-plant air monitoring of volatile organic compounds, as an indicator of contamination from the landfill, revealed no hazardous exposures. The medical records of two workers who reported the most severe health problems were reviewed. The medical records indicated that the workers had lung problems that were possibly work-related. However, neither the medical records nor the NIOSH HHE identified a likely cause of the health problems. Employee exposures to metals and particulates in the Composite and Brake shops were below established standards. The nearby landfill does not present an exposure hazard to workers. Although at least two workers may have had work-related lung problems, neither their medical records nor the NIOSH HHE identified a specific likely cause. Recommendations were made to improve personal protection programs, proper labeling of solvent tanks, conduct additional industrial hygiene monitoring, and the development of an appropriate spill prevention strategy in the Phosphoric Acid Non-Tank Anodizing (PANTA) area.
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(2000) U.S. Silica - Columbia, Cayce - W. Columbia, SC. (Click to open report) In July 1991, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for technical assistance from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to estimate the prevalence of silicosis among active and retired miners at U.S. Silica Company's Columbia plant, in Cayce-W. Columbia, South Carolina. Current and former workers with one year or greater cumulative tenure since 1970 in the grinding area of the mill or in areas downstream (by material processing) of the g... (Click to show more)In July 1991, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for technical assistance from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to estimate the prevalence of silicosis among active and retired miners at U.S. Silica Company's Columbia plant, in Cayce-W. Columbia, South Carolina. Current and former workers with one year or greater cumulative tenure since 1970 in the grinding area of the mill or in areas downstream (by material processing) of the grinding process represented the population of primary interest. On February 24-25, 1994, a medical evaluation of current workers was conducted. Former workers were tested on February 26-27, 1994. The medical evaluation included a questionnaire, spirometry, and a single view posterior-anterior(P A) chest x-ray. Chest x-rays were independently classified according to the 1980 International Labour Office (ILO) system by three NIOSH-certified B readers who were unaware of the participant's age, occupation, occupational exposure, smoking history, or any identifying information. For the purposes of this evaluation, silicosis was defined on the basis of a chest x-ray with median small opacity profusion classification of category 1/0 or greater. Thirty-five (90%) of 39 current workers and 11 (65%) of 17 former workers who met the study criterion participated in the NIOSH medical evaluation. Of these 46, four (9%) had a chest x-ray consistent with silicosis. The highest median ILO profusion category was 2/2. Two of the four had a chest x-ray consistent with progressive massive fibrosis (PMF). Twelve (27%) of the 45 participants who performed spirometry had abnormal patterns; all 12 exhibited an obstructive lung pattern. Abnormal spirometry patterns were present in all four of the participants with a positive chest x-ray. U.S. Silica's medical monitoring included all of the screening tests recommended by the National Industrial Sand Association (NISA) as well as those recommended by NIOSH for workers exposed to ground silica. NISA's current guidelines also, recommend multiple readings of all, chest x-rays with a small opacity profusion, classification of 1/0 or greater and 5-10% of those chest x-rays classified as 0//l, based on a single reading. Since 1990, the company reportedly sent chest x-rays initially classified 1/0 or greater by a single reader for additional classifications. Of the company records we reviewed, chest x-rays initially classified as negative (0/0 and 0/1) were not routinely sent for additional readings, and the practice of sending chest x-rays classified 1/0 or greater for additional readings was not consistent. Four (9%) of the 46 survey participants who met the study criterion were found to have chest x-ray findings consistent with silicosis. These results are consistent with patterns of crystalline silica dust exposure at this facility. There were no cases of silicosis among current or former workers with 15 or less years of employment; however, because of the long latency usually associated with chronic silicosis, this finding is not sufficient to conclude that current crystalline silica dust exposure levels are without adverse effect. The company medical monitoring practice of obtaining additional B reader classifications of those chest x-rays initially classified 1/0 or greater may produce an estimated prevalence no higher than and possibly lower than that obtained with a single reading, and those workers with a positive chest x-ray whose chest x-rays are initially read as 0/0 or 0/1 will not be identified. Recommendations are presented in this report and include obtaining at least two readings of all chest x-rays regardless of the initial small opacity profusion classification, increasing the frequency of medical monitoring examinations and modification of the baseline and routine examinations to include skin testing for tuberculosis (TB).
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(2000) U.S. Silica Company, Berkeley Springs, Berkeley Springs, West Virgina. (Click to open report) In July 1991, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for technical assistance from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to estimate the prevalence of silicosis among active and retired miners at US. Silica Company's Berkeley Springs plant, in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia Current and former workers with one year or greater cumulative tenure since 1970 in the grinding area or the mill or in areas downstream (by material processing) of th... (Click to show more)In July 1991, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for technical assistance from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to estimate the prevalence of silicosis among active and retired miners at US. Silica Company's Berkeley Springs plant, in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia Current and former workers with one year or greater cumulative tenure since 1970 in the grinding area or the mill or in areas downstream (by material processing) of the grinding process represented the population of primary interest. On June 14-17,1993, a medical evaluation of current workers was conducted. Former workers were tested on June 18,1993. The medical evaluation included a questionnaire, spirometry and a single view posterior/anterior (PA) chest x-ray. Chest x-rays were independently classified according to the 1980 International Labour Office (ILO) system by three NIOSH-certified B readers who were unaware of the participant's age, occupation, occupational exposure, smoking history, or any identifying information. For the purposes of this evaluation, silicosis was defined on the basis of a chest x-ray with median small opacity profusion classification of category 1/0 or greater. Fifty-four (89%) of 61current workers and 13 (41%) of 32 former workers who met the study criterion participated in the NIOSH medical evaluation. Of these 67, seven (10%)) had a chest x-ray consistent with silicosis. The highest median ILO profusion category was 2/2. Two of the seven had a chest x-ray consistent with progressive massive fibrosis (PMF), with "B" size large opacities (based on the median of the three readings). Nineteen (28'%) of the 67 participants who performed spirometry had abnormal patterns; 13 (68'%) of the 19 exhibited an obstructive pattern, four (21%) exhibited a restrictive pattern, and two exhibited a combined restrictive and obstructive pattern. An abnormal spirometry pattern was present in four of the seven participants with a positive chest x-ray. US. Silica's medical monitoring includes all of the screening tests recommended by the National Industrial Sand Association (NISA) as well as those recommended by NIOSH for workers exposed to ground silica. NISA's current guidelines also recommend multiple readings of all chest x-rays with a small opacity profusion classification of 1/0 or greater and 5-10% of those chest x-rays classified as 0/1 based on a single reading. Since 1990, due company reportedly seat chest x-rays initially classified 110 or greater by a single reader for additional classifications of the company records we reviewed, company chest x-rays initially classified as negative (0/0 and 0/1) were not routinely sent for additional readings. Seven (10'%) of the 67 survey participants who met the study criterion were found to have chest x-ray findings consistent with silicosis. These results are consistent with patterns of crystalline silica dust exposure at this facility. There were no cases of silicosis among current or former workers with 15 or less years of tenure; however, because of the long latency usually associated with chronic silicosis, this finding is not sufficient to conclude that current crystalline silica dust exposure levels are without adverse effect. The company medical monitoring practice of obtaining additional B reader classifications of those chest x-rays initially classified 1/0 or greater may produce an estimated prevalence no higher than and possibly lower than that obtained with a single reading, and those workers with a positive chest x-ray whose chest x-rays are initially read as 0/0 or 0/1 will not be identified. Recommendations are presented in this report and include obtaining at least two readings of all chest x-rays regardless of the initial small opacity profusion classification, increasing the frequency of medical monitoring examinations, and modification if the baseline and routine examinations to include skin testing for tuberculosis (TB).
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