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HHE Search Results
1058 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
(1997) Center to Protect Workers' Rights, Washington, D.C. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Center to Protect Workers' Rights in Washington, D.C. (SIC-1742), an investigation was begun into exposure to total and respirable particulates, possibly containing silica (14808607), being generated from drywall finishing during the renovation of the building. Personal breathing zone samples were collected on two drywall finishers. Eight months later, additional samples were collected from eight drywall finishers. A medical evaluation was performed assessing wo... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Center to Protect Workers' Rights in Washington, D.C. (SIC-1742), an investigation was begun into exposure to total and respirable particulates, possibly containing silica (14808607), being generated from drywall finishing during the renovation of the building. Personal breathing zone samples were collected on two drywall finishers. Eight months later, additional samples were collected from eight drywall finishers. A medical evaluation was performed assessing workers' health symptoms. Six different off the shelf dry wall joint compounds were also examined. Concentrations of total and respirable dust levels exceeded the OSHA permissible exposure limits of 15mg/m3 total dust and 5mg/m3 respirable dust. Silica was present, but only at trace levels. None of the six bulk samples of joint compounds contained asbestos, three contained minor silica and perlite contents, and two contained minor quantities of gypsum and talc with one containing a minor quantity of clay. The most common nonmusculoskeletal symptoms reported during the 12 months of the study were phlegm production, cough, shortness of breath, and eye irritation. The most frequent musculoskeletal symptoms were pain, stiffness, or numbness in the elbows/forearms, back and hands/wrists. The authors recommend the use of engineering controls, wet finishing techniques, and personal protective equipment to limit exposures to dusts created during dry wall finishing operations.
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(1997) Centre Foundry and Machine Company, Wheeling, West Virginia. (Click to open report) In response to a confidential request, a health hazard evaluation was conducted at Centre Foundry and Machine Company (SIC-3321), Wheeling, West Virginia. The company employed 52 workers in the manufacture of grey iron castings used in steel production. All seven personal breathing zone (PBZ) samples taken were over the limit for respirable silica (14808607). Several also exceeded the limits for iron (7439896) and manganese (7439965). One carbon- monoxide (630080) sample exceeded the limit of 35... (Click to show more)In response to a confidential request, a health hazard evaluation was conducted at Centre Foundry and Machine Company (SIC-3321), Wheeling, West Virginia. The company employed 52 workers in the manufacture of grey iron castings used in steel production. All seven personal breathing zone (PBZ) samples taken were over the limit for respirable silica (14808607). Several also exceeded the limits for iron (7439896) and manganese (7439965). One carbon- monoxide (630080) sample exceeded the limit of 35 parts per million (ppm). Air concentrations of resorcinol (108463), furfuryl-alcohol (98000), aluminum (7429905), barium (7440393), chromium (7440473), magnesium (7439954), nickel (7440020), phosphorus (7723140), titanium (7440326), and zinc (7440666) were below the respective limits. Levels of p-toluene-sulfonic-acid (104154) ranged from 29 to 125 micrograms/cubic meter. Discussions with workers did not reveal any major health concerns. Some potential safety and health hazards were identified during the walk through inspection such as the use of compressed air to clean loose sand from castings and cluttered walk ways. The author concludes that workers were overexposed to respirable silica, iron, manganese, and carbon- monoxide. Use of respirators would be expected to reduce exposures to silica, iron, and manganese to below exposure limits. The author recommends specific measures to reduce these exposures.
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(1997) Clinch River Power Plant, Cleveland, Virginia. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Building and Construction Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, an investigation was begun into possible exposures during rebuilding of coal fired boilers at the Clinch River Power Plant (SIC-4911), Cleveland, Virginia. During the sampling period, boilermakers removed secondary inlet and secondary outlet boiler elements and removed and replaced portions of the steel boiler casting, exposing them to fly ash and fumes from air arc gouging, welding, and torch cutting. ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Building and Construction Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, an investigation was begun into possible exposures during rebuilding of coal fired boilers at the Clinch River Power Plant (SIC-4911), Cleveland, Virginia. During the sampling period, boilermakers removed secondary inlet and secondary outlet boiler elements and removed and replaced portions of the steel boiler casting, exposing them to fly ash and fumes from air arc gouging, welding, and torch cutting. Laborers maintained the walkways and prepared work areas using sweeping and vacuuming techniques, primarily exposing them to fly ash. The highest personal breathing zone (PBZ) air sample concentrations of arsenic (7440382), beryllium (7440406), cadmium (7440439), nickel (7440020), lead (7439921), and respirable dust occurred when boilermakers performed job tasks inside the boiler and outside the boiler on the steel boiler casing. Air arc gouging, welding, oxyacetylene torch cutting, or grinding on or near the scale greatly increased the potential for the generation of airborne particles. Cristobalite (14464461) was found in one PBZ sample at 0.03mg/m3. The author concludes that there appears to be a potential for a health hazard at job sites where similar activities take place. The author recommends lowering worker exposures through the use of engineering controls and improvements in housekeeping procedures.
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(1997) Dana Corporation, Spicer Axle Division, Fort Wayne, Indiana. (Click to open report) In June 1995, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the United Paperworkers International Union, Local 7903, to investigate (1) worker exposures to respiratory and dermatologic hazards from inhalation and contact with fungi- and bacteria-contaminated synthetic metal--working fluids (MWFs), oil mist, and grinding dust in the machining areas, and (2) ergonomic hazards at the Dana Corporation, Spicer Axle Division fa... (Click to show more)In June 1995, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a health hazard evaluation (HHE) request from the United Paperworkers International Union, Local 7903, to investigate (1) worker exposures to respiratory and dermatologic hazards from inhalation and contact with fungi- and bacteria-contaminated synthetic metal--working fluids (MWFs), oil mist, and grinding dust in the machining areas, and (2) ergonomic hazards at the Dana Corporation, Spicer Axle Division facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana. In response to this request, an initial site visit was conducted on August 22-23, 1995, and a second site visit was conducted on June 19-20, 1996, to evaluate environmental exposures. A walk-through investigation of the north building, which contains the assembly area, was completed. An inspection of the make-up air units on the roof that served the south building was conducted, and the cleaning and performance of some of the SMOG HOG air cleaning devices was observed.
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(1997) Federal Express, Cincinnati, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a confidential request from employees at the Federal Express Call Center (SIC-4513), Cincinnati, Ohio, an investigation was begun into indoor environmental quality at the facility. The concerns included a lack of ventilation; an unclean work area; exposures to dust, mold, and contaminants; illnesses of unknown origin; chronic upper respiratory problems; above average absenteeism; low employee morale; and a hostile work environment. Employees who were interviewed spoke of runny nos... (Click to show more)In response to a confidential request from employees at the Federal Express Call Center (SIC-4513), Cincinnati, Ohio, an investigation was begun into indoor environmental quality at the facility. The concerns included a lack of ventilation; an unclean work area; exposures to dust, mold, and contaminants; illnesses of unknown origin; chronic upper respiratory problems; above average absenteeism; low employee morale; and a hostile work environment. Employees who were interviewed spoke of runny nose, stuffy nose/sinus congestion, dry throat, eye irritation, fatigue, and sleepiness. Several also reported pain or numbness in the shoulder, neck, hands, or wrist. One recently had undergone surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. A number of employees reported that they experienced symptoms of stress as a result of excessive work pressure and mandatory overtime. Carbon-dioxide (124389) levels, temperature, and relative humidity were all within acceptable ranges, and the carbon-dioxide concentration did not increase throughout the day, suggesting that the ventilation system was providing good air circulation and introducing enough outside air into the work area. In the roof top air handling unit there was visible mold growth and fine dust. Recommendations were made to improve the situation, but no specific hazards were noted.
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(1997) Lehigh Portland Cement Company, Union Bridge, Maryland. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Safety and Training Supervisor of the Lehigh Portland Cement Company (SIC-3241), Union Bridge, Maryland, an investigation was made to identify a bleach odor inside one of the cement kilns. Maintenance personnel working inside the kiln at times of shutdown reported respiratory and eye irritation. Personal breathing zone samples were collected during the next shut down while workers were removing and replacing 25 feet of refractory brick at the front end of the ki... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Safety and Training Supervisor of the Lehigh Portland Cement Company (SIC-3241), Union Bridge, Maryland, an investigation was made to identify a bleach odor inside one of the cement kilns. Maintenance personnel working inside the kiln at times of shutdown reported respiratory and eye irritation. Personal breathing zone samples were collected during the next shut down while workers were removing and replacing 25 feet of refractory brick at the front end of the kiln. Area samples were collected for chlorine (7782505), inorganic acids, sulfur-dioxide (7446095), oxides of nitrogen, ozone (10028156), respirable dust, total and inhaled dusts. Ozone was detected at 0.6 to 0.7 part per million (ppm) when conditions during previous episodes were recreated. Ozone was detected through a portal at the back end of the kiln at well over 0.7ppm. A direct reading meter revealed a concentration of 4.5ppm. When the induced draft fan was turned off, ozone from an electrostatic precipitator apparently back drafted into the kiln. The authors conclude that the eye and respiratory irritation were a result of ozone exposure.
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(1997) New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council, Concord, New Hampshire. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Building Services Supervisor at the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training facility (SIC-9221), Concord, New Hampshire, an investigation was begun into possible health hazards from lead (7439921) dust generated during firearms training. Personal breathing zone samples, area air samples, and wipe samples were collected. The highest airborne lead concentrations were collected during maintenance activities; 22 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3) during sweeping... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Building Services Supervisor at the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training facility (SIC-9221), Concord, New Hampshire, an investigation was begun into possible health hazards from lead (7439921) dust generated during firearms training. Personal breathing zone samples, area air samples, and wipe samples were collected. The highest airborne lead concentrations were collected during maintenance activities; 22 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3) during sweeping and 140microg/m3 during cleaning of target retrieval rails. All air samples collected during firearms training had detectable levels of lead with six ranging from 0.7 to 9.5microg/m3. Wipe sampling indicated lead concentrations ranging from 2.5 micrograms per 100 square centimeters (cm2) on a kitchenette countertop to 1,100 micrograms/100cm2 in a gun cleaning tray in a classroom. Analysis of the bulk sample indicated 45,000 micrograms lead/gram sample in floor sweepings. The author concludes that airborne lead was not causing a health hazard for these individuals but that some exposure could result from surface contamination. Lead ingestion can be avoided through good hygiene practices. Respiratory protection equipment should be provided during maintenance operations.
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(1997) Nicks Silica Company, Jackson, Tennessee. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Mine Safety and Health Administration, an investigation was begun into the prevalence of silicosis at specific ground silica (14808607) operations by conducting a medical evaluation of active and retired miners. This investigation centered around Nicks Silica Company (SIC-1446), Jackson, Tennessee. The study population included workers with 1 year or greater cumulative tenure subsequent to the opening of the mill in the grinding area or in areas downstream of th... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Mine Safety and Health Administration, an investigation was begun into the prevalence of silicosis at specific ground silica (14808607) operations by conducting a medical evaluation of active and retired miners. This investigation centered around Nicks Silica Company (SIC-1446), Jackson, Tennessee. The study population included workers with 1 year or greater cumulative tenure subsequent to the opening of the mill in the grinding area or in areas downstream of the grinding process. A medical survey was conducted which included a questionnaire, spirometry, and a single view posterior/anterior (PA) chest X-ray. None of the 12 current and former workers participating in the survey had changes on their chest X-ray consistent with silicosis. One participant showed an abnormal spirometry pattern. Three reported chronic respiratory symptoms. All four participants with positive findings were current cigarette smokers. Because of the long latency usually associated with chronic nodular silicosis, the finding is not sufficient to conclude that current silica dust exposures are without any adverse effect. The author recommends that the medical monitoring program be modified to include classification of chest X-rays by a B-reader.
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(1997) People Working Cooperatively, Cincinnati, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the management of People Working Cooperatively (SIC-1521) (PWC), a nonprofit organization based in Cincinnati, Ohio, an evaluation was undertaken of possible hazardous lead (7439921) exposures occurring during renovation of homes with lead based paint (LBP). Potentially hazardous lead exposures were measured during exterior dry scraping and wet scraping of LBP1 with maximum exposures of 120 and 63 micrograms/cubic meter, respectively. Sixty eight of the full time em... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the management of People Working Cooperatively (SIC-1521) (PWC), a nonprofit organization based in Cincinnati, Ohio, an evaluation was undertaken of possible hazardous lead (7439921) exposures occurring during renovation of homes with lead based paint (LBP). Potentially hazardous lead exposures were measured during exterior dry scraping and wet scraping of LBP1 with maximum exposures of 120 and 63 micrograms/cubic meter, respectively. Sixty eight of the full time employees participated in a medical evaluation. Ten persons, all field personnel, had a blood lead level of 10 micrograms/deciliter (microg/dl) or greater. Four had levels of 15microg/dl or greater, with the highest being 17.5microg/dl. All of the 126 paint chip samples collected from 49 painted work surfaces in 15 homes had detectable lead, ranging from 0.0022 to 58%. Twelve surface dust samples collected on floors in six homes during renovation on average had lead loadings hazardous to children. The authors conclude that there were potentially hazardous exposures during wet and dry scraping; these tasks were infrequently performed. The average surface levels in homes undergoing renovation were potentially hazardous to young children. Surface levels in the workers' personal vehicles were also potentially hazardous.
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(1997) Ralston Purina Company, Eveready Battery Company, Marietta, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers International Union, a health hazard evaluation was conducted at the Eveready Battery Company (SIC-3313) electrolytic manganese-dioxide facility in Marietta, Ohio. Two employees had a Parkinson like disease which could be related to chronic manganese (7439965) toxicity. Investigators reviewed and analyzed company records and conducted air sampling for manganese dust. The 29 full shift evaluations for total manganese showed 8 hour... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers International Union, a health hazard evaluation was conducted at the Eveready Battery Company (SIC-3313) electrolytic manganese-dioxide facility in Marietta, Ohio. Two employees had a Parkinson like disease which could be related to chronic manganese (7439965) toxicity. Investigators reviewed and analyzed company records and conducted air sampling for manganese dust. The 29 full shift evaluations for total manganese showed 8 hour time weighted average personal breathing zone concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 0.40mg/m3. All findings were below allowable limits. A cross sectional medical survey indicated symptoms of tiredness, muscle aches, and cramps and the physical finding of tremor was found more frequently among production and support workers than among nonproduction workers. There was no statistical association between symptom indices for concentration, memory, anxiety, depression, motor function, and tremor with work at the electrolytic manganese- dioxide facility. Work in the ferromanganese furnace departments outside the facility was associated with symptoms of declining concentration, memory, and motor function. However, these workers may have been exposed to potential neurotoxicants other than manganese. The authors conclude that no statistical association was seen between work in the factory and adverse health outcomes. The authors recommend that employee exposures be reduced.
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