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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
(1994) General Electric Corporation, Evendale, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from United Auto Workers Local 647, an investigation of possible hazardous working conditions was begun at the General Electric Corporation (SIC-3724) located in Evendale, Ohio. Concern was expressed over two operations: the removal of Viton and the grinding, milling, and cutting of PMR-15 during the production of aircraft engine parts. No residual 4,4'- methylenedianiline (101779) (MDA) was detected from an analysis of a bulk sample of graphite composite particulate. Se... (Click to show more)In response to a request from United Auto Workers Local 647, an investigation of possible hazardous working conditions was begun at the General Electric Corporation (SIC-3724) located in Evendale, Ohio. Concern was expressed over two operations: the removal of Viton and the grinding, milling, and cutting of PMR-15 during the production of aircraft engine parts. No residual 4,4'- methylenedianiline (101779) (MDA) was detected from an analysis of a bulk sample of graphite composite particulate. Seven personal breathing zone and general area air samples were analyzed and shown to contain no airborne fibers. Concentrations of total and/or respirable particulate in the Development Manufacturing Operations (DMO) area were very low, ranging from 0.01 to 0.06mg/m3 for respirable particulate and from 0.07 to 0.17mg/m3 for total particulate. Most employees reported to have skin problems in the DMO area had histories consistent with possible work related skin disorders with pruritis and redness of the skin. In one case the children of a worker also had experienced rashes. Although some workers found that wearing gloves, sleeves, and paper overalls decreased the frequency of the skin disorders, other workers considered them to be a safety hazard. The authors conclude that a potential hazard existed to the exposed, unprotected skin from graphite composite particulate. The authors recommend that changes be made in the type of protective clothing used. Local exhaust ventilation should be used when machining composite components without cutting fluids.
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(1994) Geneva Rubber Company, Geneva, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the employees at the Geneva Rubber Company (SIC-3567), Geneva, Ohio, an evaluation was conducted of worker exposures to rubber fumes in the injection press area. The Company manufactured molded rubber parts for appliances used in marine, electrical, and automotive products. On each shift, 12 workers were assigned in the injection press area that included nine automatic steam heated injection presses. Several types of primer paints and paint thinners were used in the... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the employees at the Geneva Rubber Company (SIC-3567), Geneva, Ohio, an evaluation was conducted of worker exposures to rubber fumes in the injection press area. The Company manufactured molded rubber parts for appliances used in marine, electrical, and automotive products. On each shift, 12 workers were assigned in the injection press area that included nine automatic steam heated injection presses. Several types of primer paints and paint thinners were used in the paint room adjacent to the injection press area. Low concentrations of tetrachloroethylene (127184), toluene (108883), 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556) and xylene (1330207) were detected in the personal breathing zone samples for workers in the injection press area. In the degreaser area and paint room, tetrachloroethylene (127184), methyl-isobutyl-ketone (108101), methylene-chloride (75092), xylene, and methyl-ethyl- ketone (78933) were detected. Three workers in the paint room had a combined exposure to a solvent mixture which exceeded acceptable limits. Real time exposures to respirable dust were 0.016 and 0.017mg/m3. Workers experienced irritation of the mucous membranes, cough, shortness of breath, sinus congestion, and sinus congestion with drainage. The authors conclude that no specific substance or substances could be identified which clearly accounted for symptoms reported by workers. Paint room workers were overexposed to a mixture of solvents. The authors recommend that improvements be made in the ventilation systems, proper personal protective equipment be provided, and exposures to rubber chemicals be further evaluated.
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(1994) Hardy Road Landfill, Akron, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from management at the City of Akron and the Akron City Employees Local 1360, a study was made regarding potential exposures of employees to toxic dusts from empty containers and packaging materials landfilled at the Hardy Road Landfill (SIC-4953). The Landfill was a 215 acre waste disposal site in the northwest portion of Akron, Ohio. The landfill accepts wood, paper, plastic and metal from businesses and residences; industrial solid waste byproducts such as foundry san... (Click to show more)In response to a request from management at the City of Akron and the Akron City Employees Local 1360, a study was made regarding potential exposures of employees to toxic dusts from empty containers and packaging materials landfilled at the Hardy Road Landfill (SIC-4953). The Landfill was a 215 acre waste disposal site in the northwest portion of Akron, Ohio. The landfill accepts wood, paper, plastic and metal from businesses and residences; industrial solid waste byproducts such as foundry sand, rubber scrap, and nonuseable materials; exempt solid wastes such as construction debris and incinerator ash waste from an energy recycle station. Three heavy equipment operators, three mechanics, and a laborer participated in a 2 day monitoring period of personal air and noise dosimetry measurements. These workers were exposed to noise in excess of the OSHA standard of 90 decibels-A. Hearing protective devices were used. Full shift air sampling for asbestos (1332214), respirable dust, respirable silica (14808607), and metals indicated that three equipment operators were exposed to excess levels of respirable silica. Half mask respirators were available for use at the discretion of the employees. The authors conclude that a health hazard existed due to exposure to respirable silica. Workers were also exposed to noise. The authors recommend that comprehensive hearing conservation and respiratory protection programs be instituted.
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(1994) Johnson Controls, Inc., Lexington, Kentucky. (Click to open report) In response to a joint request from union and management, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at Johnson Controls, Inc. (SIC-3444), Lexington, Kentucky. Workers had reported eye and throat irritation during welding of galvanized metal. The company manufactured custom ventilation dampers from galvanized steel roll stock. The company employed 35 workers, 26 of whom are directly involved in the manufacturing process. Air sampling indicated that contaminant levels were be... (Click to show more)In response to a joint request from union and management, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at Johnson Controls, Inc. (SIC-3444), Lexington, Kentucky. Workers had reported eye and throat irritation during welding of galvanized metal. The company manufactured custom ventilation dampers from galvanized steel roll stock. The company employed 35 workers, 26 of whom are directly involved in the manufacturing process. Air sampling indicated that contaminant levels were below recommended exposure limits. Zinc-oxide (1314132), manganese (7439965), and iron (7439896) were detected in the welding fume samples. The highest measured concentration of specific welding fume components were detected on a 143 minute afternoon sample obtained from the Value Line welder. Even at this time, all detected levels were well below the recommended standards. No detectable levels of ozone (10028156) or nitrogen-dioxide (10102440) were found at the welding stations. Carbon-monoxide (630080) was below the recommended limits. Removable metal residue was found on surfaces used for food and beverage consumption, indicating additional cleaning is warranted. The existing ventilation system used to control welding fume was not being used as efficiently as possible. The authors conclude that an inhalation hazard was not present during the monitoring period. The authors recommend that the ventilation system be improved.
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(1994) Kessler Studios, Loveland, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the owners of Kessler Studios (SIC- 3231), Loveland, Ohio, an investigation was conducted to determine whether hazardous working conditions existed at that site. The company was a small stained glass window studio, adjoining the owners' home. The owners were the only full time employees. Part time employees work occasionally at the studio. The primary concerns were lead (7439921) exposure from working with leaded came and the possible contamination of their home. Ai... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the owners of Kessler Studios (SIC- 3231), Loveland, Ohio, an investigation was conducted to determine whether hazardous working conditions existed at that site. The company was a small stained glass window studio, adjoining the owners' home. The owners were the only full time employees. Part time employees work occasionally at the studio. The primary concerns were lead (7439921) exposure from working with leaded came and the possible contamination of their home. Air samples taken during all processes conducted at the studio yielded low concentrations of lead, except one. Breathing zone lead dust concentrations ranging from 60 to 80 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3) were generated during the whiting process, a cleaning procedure. Lead dust accumulations in the workshop ranged from 1.2 to 1,600 milligrams per square meter. Wipe samples, vacuum dust samples, and general air samples in the home suggest that lead contamination was not occurring in their residence. Blood lead levels were 1.8 and 2.1 micrograms per deciliter. The zinc protoporphyrin blood levels were 34 and 31 micrograms/deciliter. The author concludes that personal lead exposures were low, except during whiting. Exposures to lead were minimized by ventilation and hygiene practices; these also prevented the contamination of their home.
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(1994) Lasko Metal Parts, Inc., R and S Manufacturing, Inc., Columbia, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) In response to a management request, an investigation was conducted of a new epoxy powder recycling process and epoxy powder exposures at R and S Manufacturing (SIC-3634), Columbia, Pennsylvania, a division of Lasko Metal Parts. The company produced electric motors used in oscillating fans. An epoxy powder was sprayed onto the motors and heat cured. Eight employees worked in the epoxy powder room. Personal breathing zone air samples were analyzed for C7 to C11 naphthas and 1,1,1-trichloroethane ... (Click to show more)In response to a management request, an investigation was conducted of a new epoxy powder recycling process and epoxy powder exposures at R and S Manufacturing (SIC-3634), Columbia, Pennsylvania, a division of Lasko Metal Parts. The company produced electric motors used in oscillating fans. An epoxy powder was sprayed onto the motors and heat cured. Eight employees worked in the epoxy powder room. Personal breathing zone air samples were analyzed for C7 to C11 naphthas and 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556) (TCE). General area air samples were analyzed for fiber identification, content of respirable dust, and crystalline silica (14808607). Only trace concentrations of wollastonite (13983170) were identified in the general air samples taken. Respirable dust general area air samples ranged from 0.20 to 0.24mg/m3. Results for crystalline silica were below the minimum detectable concentrations. Deficiencies were noted during a visual inspection of the local exhaust ventilation system. These deficiencies may have contributed to the minor symptoms of heat stress which were reported by employees. Potential lead (7439921) exposure was identified for workers in the wire department due to an inadequate exhaust hood design and poor work practices. Welding fumes from a manual spot welding station were exhausted into the factory. The authors conclude that exposures to epoxy powder were below nuisance dust criteria; however, exposures should be minimized. The authors recommend that exhaust ventilation deficiencies be corrected.
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(1994) LTV Steel-Tundish Yard, East Chicago, Indiana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the United Steel Workers of America, Local 1011, a study was undertaken of exposures to refractory dust at the Steel Producing Tundish Repair Yard at LTV Steel (SIC-3312), East Chicago, Indiana. At the yard, tundishes used on the continual casting line were deskulled, repaired, and coated with refractory material. Personal breathing zone samples and area samples taken showed respirable dust concentrations were well below the evaluation criteria for occupational expo... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the United Steel Workers of America, Local 1011, a study was undertaken of exposures to refractory dust at the Steel Producing Tundish Repair Yard at LTV Steel (SIC-3312), East Chicago, Indiana. At the yard, tundishes used on the continual casting line were deskulled, repaired, and coated with refractory material. Personal breathing zone samples and area samples taken showed respirable dust concentrations were well below the evaluation criteria for occupational exposures of 5mg/m3. Silica (14808607) was not detected in any of the air or bulk samples. Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke was identified as a potential hazard. A walk through survey identified several potential hazards, including welding without protective screening, no eye hazard warning signs, and large dust clouds during hopper filling. The author concludes that workers were not overexposed to respirable dust or silica at the time of the survey. Environmental tobacco smoke was identified as a potential hazard. The author recommends that engineering controls and improved safety practices be instituted.
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(1994) Rubbermaid, Inc., Reynolds, Indiana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a management representative of Rubbermaid, Inc. (SIC-3089), a study was begun of possible exposures to airborne formaldehyde (50000), and total and respirable dust at the Reynolds, Indiana facility. The facility employed about 150 persons in the manufacture of thermoset plastic cookware products. In the Compounding Department, melamine/formaldehyde powder was compressed into small pellets which were transported to the Press Department and molded into the desired sha... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a management representative of Rubbermaid, Inc. (SIC-3089), a study was begun of possible exposures to airborne formaldehyde (50000), and total and respirable dust at the Reynolds, Indiana facility. The facility employed about 150 persons in the manufacture of thermoset plastic cookware products. In the Compounding Department, melamine/formaldehyde powder was compressed into small pellets which were transported to the Press Department and molded into the desired shape. Pieces were then sent to the Product Process Department where parts were trimmed and packaged. There was no local exhaust system for the presses. Personal breathing zone airborne formaldehyde concentrations ranged from 0.52 to 1.75 parts per million (ppm) for nine press operators. Seven exceeded the Permissible Exposure Level of 0.75ppm. Area samples for formaldehyde ranged from 0.23 to 1.98ppm. Total dust concentrations in the Bipel booth were 2.25 and 2.47mg/m3 and respirable dust concentrations were 0.69 and 0.56mg/m3. The booth effectively contained the dust generated during that operation. Very low quantities of toluene (108883), styrene (100425), isopropanol (67630), and 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556) were detected. The author concludes that a health hazard for press operators existed from formaldehyde exposures. The author recommends that engineering controls be used to reduce formaldehyde exposure.
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(1994) Saint Joseph's Catholic Church Saint Leon, Indiana. (Click to open report) The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a health hazard evaluation at Saint Joseph''s Catholic Church in Saint Leon, Indiana, at the request of the Secretary of the church''s parish council. The request concerned evaluation of the health risks associated with worker exposures to a large accumulation of bat droppings during renovation activities in the church''s 6700 square foot attic. NIOSH researchers collected twenty samples of bat droppings from the church'... (Click to show more)The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a health hazard evaluation at Saint Joseph''s Catholic Church in Saint Leon, Indiana, at the request of the Secretary of the church''s parish council. The request concerned evaluation of the health risks associated with worker exposures to a large accumulation of bat droppings during renovation activities in the church''s 6700 square foot attic. NIOSH researchers collected twenty samples of bat droppings from the church''s attic, one sample of moldy wood from its rafters, and four soil samples around its foundation to be analyzed for the fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum. H. capsulatum is the etiologic agent of histoplasmosis, the most common pulmonary mycosis of humans and animals. Acute, severe pulmonary histoplasmosis usually occurs in small epidemics involving exposure to an aerosol containing numerous spores resulting from the disturbance of highly infected material. A primary source of H. capsulatum is soil, especially in regions of bird or bat habitats. While wind is probably the most important means of disseminating H. capsulatum, the fungus can survive and be transmitted from one location to another on the feet of both birds and bats. Unlike birds, bats can become infected with H. capsulatum and consequently may excrete the organism in their feces. The twenty-five samples collected at Saint Joseph''s Catholic Church will be analyzed qualitatively by a new method using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) probe detection system. The time period required to develop such an analytical method was uncertain when this report was written; however, sampling results were not expected for several months. An amended report will be prepared and distributed when results are available. As explained in this report, it is prudent to assume that the bat droppings in the attic of Saint Joseph''s Catholic Church are contaminated with H. capsulatum and that disturbing this material represents a potential health hazard. Recommendations were made to reduce exposures to aerosolized dust by spraying the bat droppings with water prior to and during renovation activities. Further, each worker was recommended to wear a NIOSH/MSHA-approved fullfacepiece powered air-purifying respirator with high-efficiency filters, disposable protective clothing with a hood, disposable latex gloves under cotton work gloves, and disposable shoe coverings. Because the recommended ensemble of disposable personal protective equipment is more insulating than normal work clothing, precautions should be taken during renovation activities to reduce the risk of heat stress-related illnesses. Keywords: SIC 8661 (religious organizations), bats, Histoplasma capsulatum, histoplasmosis, and respiratory protection.
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(1994) State of Rhode Island, Department of Employment and Training, Providence, Rhode Island. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the management of the Rhode Island Department of Employment and Training (DET) (SIC-9441), Providence, Rhode Island, an investigation was started into possible excessive exposures to lead (7439921) following abrasive blasting to remove lead based paint from the interior surfaces of the facility prior to occupancy of the building. Environmental monitoring studies were conducted approximately 18 months after the lead abatement activity had been completed. No lead was ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the management of the Rhode Island Department of Employment and Training (DET) (SIC-9441), Providence, Rhode Island, an investigation was started into possible excessive exposures to lead (7439921) following abrasive blasting to remove lead based paint from the interior surfaces of the facility prior to occupancy of the building. Environmental monitoring studies were conducted approximately 18 months after the lead abatement activity had been completed. No lead was detected in any of the twelve general area samples taken for airborne lead. Two bulk samples of residue abrasive blasting and paint chips material contained 3,300 and 120,000 micrograms of lead/gram of material. Forty wipe samples obtained from surfaces in the office ranged from 9 to 200,000 micrograms of lead/square foot. The authors conclude that a potential health hazard existed due to the presence of lead contaminated dust. The authors recommend that manual cleaning and vacuuming of these areas using a high efficiency particulate air filtering system be conducted.
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