If you cannot find anything that addresses your concerns, please contact us to see how we can help.
All NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation reports and other NIOSH publications are available at no cost.
You can either download a copy of the publication from the website or contact us for a copy.
For HHE reports, please send an email to HHERequestHelp@cdc.gov.
Information about all other NIOSH publications is available at https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pubs/.
We carefully review our reports prior to publication, but we do make errors from time to time.
We regret any typographical or other minor errors that you might find. If you find a substantive factual or data-related error, let us know.
Please send an email to HHERequestHelp@cdc.gov with the report number (ex. HHE 2013-0500-7500),
the authors' names, the error you are reporting, and the page number of the error. We will look into your comments,
fix confirmed errors, and repost the report. Thank you for your interest in the HHE Program.
HHE Search Results
1063 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) 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.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(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.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(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.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(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.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(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.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(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.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1997) Unimin Specialty Minerals, Inc.- Elco, Elco, Illinois. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Mine Safety and Health Administration, a medical survey of current workers at the Unimin Specialty Minerals Elco (SIC-1446) operation in Illinois was conducted. The primary objective was to estimate and report the prevalence of silicosis among participating current and former employees at the grinding area and/or downstream of the grinding area at each operation by tenure and job. Of the 28 current and former workers who participated in the medical survey, six (... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Mine Safety and Health Administration, a medical survey of current workers at the Unimin Specialty Minerals Elco (SIC-1446) operation in Illinois was conducted. The primary objective was to estimate and report the prevalence of silicosis among participating current and former employees at the grinding area and/or downstream of the grinding area at each operation by tenure and job. Of the 28 current and former workers who participated in the medical survey, six (21%) had a chest X-ray considered to be consistent with silicosis. The prevalence among current workers was 10%. The highest median International Labour Office (ILO) profusion category was 2/3. Three participants had a chest X-ray consistent with progressive massive fibrosis. Two had "A" size large opacities and one had "C" size large opacities. None who had been working less than 10 years had a positive chest X-ray. The prevalence of silicosis among the group who met the study criterion, yet chose not to participate in the medical survey was 8%. Pulmonary function testing revealed that eight of the 25 participants who performed spirometry had abnormal patterns, and all eight exhibited an obstructive lung pattern. The author recommends that the frequency of medical monitoring examinations be increased.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1997) Valley High School, West Des Moines, Iowa. (Click to open report) On September 16-17, 1997, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a site visit at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, in response to a management request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE). The request asked NIOSH to assess indoor air quality and measure exposures to crystalline silica in the art rooms at this school. The source of crystalline silica was clay and various glazes used during ceramics courses in art room 403. The request was initiated ... (Click to show more)On September 16-17, 1997, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a site visit at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, in response to a management request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE). The request asked NIOSH to assess indoor air quality and measure exposures to crystalline silica in the art rooms at this school. The source of crystalline silica was clay and various glazes used during ceramics courses in art room 403. The request was initiated folloing an employee complaint filed with the Iowa Department of Labor Services, Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) Division, regarding potential exposure to dust and silica from clays. The IOSH administrator recommended that school officials request a NIOSH HHE. Adverse health effects reported in the IOSH complaint included respiratory difficulties, dizziness, nausea, and chronic sneezing.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1996) Bruce Mansfield Power Station, Shippingport, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Plumbers and Steamfitters Union Local 47, an investigation was begun into possible exposure to arsenic (7440439) and other heavy metals during the rebuilding of coal fired boilers at the Bruce Mansfield Power Station (SIC-4911), Shippingport, Pennsylvania. Metal concentrations were measured in 45 personal breathing zone (PBZ) samples; an additional 12 PBZ samples were monitored for exposure to respirable dust and silica (14808607). Eight bulk ash samples and 11 ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Plumbers and Steamfitters Union Local 47, an investigation was begun into possible exposure to arsenic (7440439) and other heavy metals during the rebuilding of coal fired boilers at the Bruce Mansfield Power Station (SIC-4911), Shippingport, Pennsylvania. Metal concentrations were measured in 45 personal breathing zone (PBZ) samples; an additional 12 PBZ samples were monitored for exposure to respirable dust and silica (14808607). Eight bulk ash samples and 11 hand wipe samples were taken. The workers put in 60 hour work weeks, 10 hours a day for 6 days. Arsenic was detected in 18 samples and ranged from 0.30 to 31 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3) with three of the samples exceeding the adjusted OSHA permissible exposure limit of 5.6microg/m3. In 11 samples, beryllium (7440417) was detected, and ranged from 0.02 to 0.04microg/m3. Cadmium (7440439) was detected in seven samples and ranged from 0.17 to 2.5microg/m3. Both the beryllium and cadmium concentrations were below the allowable limits. Lead (7439921) concentrations were measurable in 12 samples and ranged from 1.7 to 1,82microg/m3, with one sample exceeding the OSHA limit of 28microg/m3. Crystalline silica was below the detectable limit. Wipe samples collected from the hands of the employees indicated the potential for exposure through ingestion. The author concludes that there was a potential hazard from exposure to arsenic, beryllium, and lead. The author recommends that housekeeping procedures and work practices be improved to reduced exposures.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
(1996) BTR Antivibration Systems, Inc., Logansport, Indiana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from management, an investigation was begun into a recent increase in the number of workers with skin conditions at BTR Antivibration Systems, Inc. (SIC-3061), Logansport, Indiana. The facility produced automotive vibration control products using rubber stock and metal parts. Nearly 5,000 individuals were employed in the facility on three shifts. Department 634 included the molding process, metal preparation processes, paint dip tanks, elastomer adhesive spray processes,... (Click to show more)In response to a request from management, an investigation was begun into a recent increase in the number of workers with skin conditions at BTR Antivibration Systems, Inc. (SIC-3061), Logansport, Indiana. The facility produced automotive vibration control products using rubber stock and metal parts. Nearly 5,000 individuals were employed in the facility on three shifts. Department 634 included the molding process, metal preparation processes, paint dip tanks, elastomer adhesive spray processes, grinding and buffing operations, assembly and packaging of the products. Twenty one employees described dermatologic symptoms which they felt were work related. Seventeen of these 21 had sought help from a physician and the final diagnoses included nonspecific dermatitis in three, and one case each of irritant contact dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, lichen simplex chronicus, urticaria, blister, rosacea, alopecia areata, furuncles, urticarial vasculitis, nummular psoriasis, and psoriasis. Exposures that the workers subjectively associated with their symptoms included oils, sprayer, paint lacquer, cleanser, heat, soap, adhesive, dust and solvents. The authors conclude that no specific explanation was found for the increase in skin problems at the facility, although workers had potential exposure to multiple known skin irritants and allergens.
(Click to show less) (Click to open report)
