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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
(1992) Egg Harbor Yacht, Inc., Egg Harbor City, New Jersey. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a group of employees at Egg Harbor Yacht, Inc. (SIC-3732), Egg Harbor, New Jersey, an investigation was made of respiratory complaints. The company manufactured fiberglass reinforced plastic boats, specializing in fishing and sporting yachts. There were approximately 200 hourly workers employed at the site. The hull, deck and some smaller boat parts were fabricated from polyester base resin, gel coat, and split strand glass fiber using hand or spray lay up technique... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a group of employees at Egg Harbor Yacht, Inc. (SIC-3732), Egg Harbor, New Jersey, an investigation was made of respiratory complaints. The company manufactured fiberglass reinforced plastic boats, specializing in fishing and sporting yachts. There were approximately 200 hourly workers employed at the site. The hull, deck and some smaller boat parts were fabricated from polyester base resin, gel coat, and split strand glass fiber using hand or spray lay up techniques. The workers complained generally of respiratory symptoms. Over 78% of the measurements taken from the fiberglass molding area showed styrene (100425) concentrations above the NIOSH action level of 25 parts per million (ppm), with the average concentration being 46.8ppm. Of four breathing zone samples for total wood dust taken in the woodworking section, three were above the ACGIH threshold limit value of 1mg/m3. The authors conclude that a health hazard existed from exposures to styrene and wood dust and recommend exposure monitoring, engineering and administrative controls, personal protection, and medical monitoring as aids to correcting this situation.
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(1992) Food and Drug Administration, Cincinnati, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from an employer representative at the Food and Drug Administration (SIC-9641) at Cincinnati, Ohio an investigation was begun into potential exposures to lead (7439921) from lead based paint. A steam leak within a heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit in the basement caused the paint on the wall of the unit to peel and be distributed throughout the first floor. Bulk samples of the paint were submitted for lead analysis. Results indicated varying amounts of lead ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from an employer representative at the Food and Drug Administration (SIC-9641) at Cincinnati, Ohio an investigation was begun into potential exposures to lead (7439921) from lead based paint. A steam leak within a heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit in the basement caused the paint on the wall of the unit to peel and be distributed throughout the first floor. Bulk samples of the paint were submitted for lead analysis. Results indicated varying amounts of lead ranging from 500 to 1000 parts per million (ppm) were present. Area air samples were collected 2 months later to determine possible lead exposures. Area air samples revealed levels up to 0.09 micrograms per cubic meter. Surface wipe samples were also below the allowable limits, ranging from less than 1.86 to 39.0 micrograms per square foot. Bulk samples of paint indicated lead levels from 110 to 52000 micrograms per gram. This was equivalent to 0.01 to 5.2% by weight, respectively. The author conclude that a health hazard did not exist from exposures to lead. The potential for future problems was indicated by the content of lead in the bulk paint samples. The author recommends the development of a management program to prevent further release of lead. A removal program for the rest of the lead containing paint is also proposed.
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(1992) General Castings Co., Liberty Road Facility, Delaware, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the management of General Castings Liberty Road Facility (SIC-3321), Delaware, Ohio, an investigation was made of possible worker exposures in the coremaking, molding, pouring, melting, shakeout, sand handling, and cleaning areas of the facility. The gray and ductile iron foundry employed three shifts of workers. Personal breathing zone and area air samples were collected, and an analysis was made of work practices and engineering control measures. The authors concl... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the management of General Castings Liberty Road Facility (SIC-3321), Delaware, Ohio, an investigation was made of possible worker exposures in the coremaking, molding, pouring, melting, shakeout, sand handling, and cleaning areas of the facility. The gray and ductile iron foundry employed three shifts of workers. Personal breathing zone and area air samples were collected, and an analysis was made of work practices and engineering control measures. The authors conclude that respirable silica (14808607), cristobalite (14464461), iron (7439896), formaldehyde (50000), and benzene (71432) exposures could present a hazard to workers in the cleaning, coremaking, molding, and shakeout areas. Employees were also potentially exposed to hazardous levels of carbon-monoxide (630080). The authors recommend engineering controls, an improved respiratory protection program, and improved work practices.
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(1992) Gibson Flatiron, Erica Shell Manufacturing, Bozeman, Montana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Montana State Health Department, an evaluation was undertaken of exposures to wood dust and lacquer vapors at the Gibson Flatiron/Erica Shell Manufacturing Companies (SIC-3931), Bozeman, Montana. Gibson Flatiron manufactured mandolins and banjos. Erica Shell Manufacturing Company cuts and grinds abalone and other sea shells into small pieces to be used in designs inlayed into mandolins and banjos. Measured wood dust levels ranged from 0.8 to 32mg/m3 with an 8 ho... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Montana State Health Department, an evaluation was undertaken of exposures to wood dust and lacquer vapors at the Gibson Flatiron/Erica Shell Manufacturing Companies (SIC-3931), Bozeman, Montana. Gibson Flatiron manufactured mandolins and banjos. Erica Shell Manufacturing Company cuts and grinds abalone and other sea shells into small pieces to be used in designs inlayed into mandolins and banjos. Measured wood dust levels ranged from 0.8 to 32mg/m3 with an 8 hour time weighted average (TWA) of 1.2 to 30mg/m3. Rib construction and assembly, and planing bulk ebony wood had TWA exposures above the OSHA permissible exposure limit of 5mg/m3 for wood dust. Application of dyes and finishes resulted in low exposures to acetone (67641), toluene (108883), xylene (1330207), and butyl-acetate (123864). No solvent air concentrations were above 10% of their respective PELs. The author concludes that a health hazard existed for exposure to wood dusts. The author recommends the establishment of a respiratory protection program and a hearing conservation program. Emergency egress routes should be marked in the buildings.
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(1992) Harvard Industries, Inc., Trim Trends Division, Bryan, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from management and the Allied Industrial Workers of America, an investigation was made of possible hazardous working conditions in the Trim Trends Division of Harvard Industries (SIC-3442), Bryan, Ohio. Concern was expressed about exposure to welding fumes and grinding dust, and repetitive motion. The company manufactured automobile parts including window sashes, spinners (transmission parts), stampings and door beams. There were 230 hourly employees at the time of the ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from management and the Allied Industrial Workers of America, an investigation was made of possible hazardous working conditions in the Trim Trends Division of Harvard Industries (SIC-3442), Bryan, Ohio. Concern was expressed about exposure to welding fumes and grinding dust, and repetitive motion. The company manufactured automobile parts including window sashes, spinners (transmission parts), stampings and door beams. There were 230 hourly employees at the time of the site visit. Sample concentrations for iron (7439896), magnesium (7439954), manganese (7439965S), and zinc (7440666) were below existing guidelines and standards. One personal breathing zone sample for a welder contained 0.167mg/m3 copper (7440508) fume, while the NIOSH recommended exposure limit was 0.1mg/m3. Videotape of work activities indicated that many of the production jobs exposed employees to risk factors commonly associated with upper extremity cumulative trauma disorders including repetitive hand/wrist movements and excessive manual force application. The greatest risk was associated with the grinding task during which workers were also exposed to vibration. The authors conclude that a potential health hazard for upper extremity cumulative trauma disorders existed for workers in the welding and grinding areas. The authors recommend specific measures to reduce the ergonomic risk factors and improve safety conditions.
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(1992) Kansas City Kansas Police Department, Kansas City, Kansas. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a management representative of the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department (SIC-9221), an evaluation was undertaken of possible lead (7439921) exposures at the Police Department outdoor firing range. About 200,000 rounds of ammunition are fired at the range each year. Personal breathing zone and area air samples were taken for lead analysis. Surface wipe samples were taken as well along with hand lead concentrations and contamination of clothing. Air sampling reveale... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a management representative of the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department (SIC-9221), an evaluation was undertaken of possible lead (7439921) exposures at the Police Department outdoor firing range. About 200,000 rounds of ammunition are fired at the range each year. Personal breathing zone and area air samples were taken for lead analysis. Surface wipe samples were taken as well along with hand lead concentrations and contamination of clothing. Air sampling revealed that the officers were exposed to 8 hour time weighted average concentrations of airborne lead ranging from nondetectable to 8 micrograms (microg) per cubic meter. The general air samples collected ranged from nondetectable to trace levels of contamination. Wipe samples of several surfaces indicated lead contamination ranging from 1350 to 1180microg per square meter (m2). The officers' hands were contaminated with lead. Even after washing their hands, the concentrations ranged from 210 to 110microg/m2. One of six patches from a tee shirt worn by an officer showed lead at 110microg/gram of material. The authors conclude that airborne lead did not exceed evaluation criteria, but dermal, surface and clothing contamination could increase the potential for lead ingestion and lead contamination of automobiles and homes. The authors recommend that efforts be made to reduce the potential spread of lead, and that medical surveillance be instituted for frequent range users and the range master.
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(1992) Kenton County Department for Social Insurance, Covington, Kentucky. (Click to open report) In response to a request from three workers at the Kenton County Department for Social Insurance (DSI) (SIC-9441), Covington, Kentucky, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at that site. The workers complained of headaches, nausea, sinus infections, bronchial problems, breathing problems, unpleasant odors, dust and other items thought to be related to the quality of the indoor air they were breathing. In 1990, the third floor of the seven story building was compl... (Click to show more)In response to a request from three workers at the Kenton County Department for Social Insurance (DSI) (SIC-9441), Covington, Kentucky, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at that site. The workers complained of headaches, nausea, sinus infections, bronchial problems, breathing problems, unpleasant odors, dust and other items thought to be related to the quality of the indoor air they were breathing. In 1990, the third floor of the seven story building was completely renovated with new carpeting, windows, painting of walls and some asbestos removal. The DSI office was responsible for processing social benefits for the area. Carbon-dioxide (124389) levels were increased slightly on the third floor during the work day, but remained below the established limits. Temperature and relative humidity levels were within the comfort zone. An effective smoking policy was not in effect. The authors conclude that a health hazard existed at the site. The symptoms experienced by these workers may have been the result of indoor air pollution caused by cigarette smoking. The ventilation systems servicing the area were unbalanced, which may have contributed to these symptoms as well. The authors recommend the development and implementation of an effective smoking policy, and balancing the ventilation system.
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(1992) Kreisler Industrial Corporation, Elmwood Park, New Jersey. (Click to open report) In response to a request from 16 former employees of the Kreisler Industrial Corporation (SIC-3498) (KIC), Elmwood Park, New Jersey, an investigation was undertaken to determine if health problems in some employees were work related. Reported health problems among the workers included occupational asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, heart problems and cancer. KIC was a custom machine shop servicing the aircraft engine industry. The company employed 85 workers with 50 directly involved in production or q... (Click to show more)In response to a request from 16 former employees of the Kreisler Industrial Corporation (SIC-3498) (KIC), Elmwood Park, New Jersey, an investigation was undertaken to determine if health problems in some employees were work related. Reported health problems among the workers included occupational asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, heart problems and cancer. KIC was a custom machine shop servicing the aircraft engine industry. The company employed 85 workers with 50 directly involved in production or quality control. Monitoring results indicated that all contaminants sampled were below NIOSH recommended exposure limits (PELs). The highest solvent vapor concentration detected was 8 parts per million (ppm) for 1,1,1- trichloroethane (71556) (TCE) for the cleaning operator. The highest inorganic acid concentration detected was 0.15ppm of nitric- acid (7697372). Mineral-oil mist concentrations of 0.9 and dust contamination in the cleaning, deburring, and assembly departments. Other than eye and respiratory tract irritation, the medical evaluation did not identify employee health problems related to workplace contamination. The authors recommend measures to improve the level of safety and health at the facility.
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(1992) Langers Black Hills Silver Jewelry, Inc., Spearfish, South Dakota. (Click to open report) In response to a request from employees of Langers Black Hills Silver Jewelry (SIC-3911), an investigation was undertaken of possible hazardous working conditions at that site in Spearfish, South Dakota. Twenty one to 23 workers at the facility were engaged in making jewelry; processes used included lost wax casting, resin molding, and soldering. Personal air sampling was conducted to evaluate employee exposure to carbon-monoxide (630080), crystalline silica (14808607) and metal fume in the Cast... (Click to show more)In response to a request from employees of Langers Black Hills Silver Jewelry (SIC-3911), an investigation was undertaken of possible hazardous working conditions at that site in Spearfish, South Dakota. Twenty one to 23 workers at the facility were engaged in making jewelry; processes used included lost wax casting, resin molding, and soldering. Personal air sampling was conducted to evaluate employee exposure to carbon-monoxide (630080), crystalline silica (14808607) and metal fume in the Casting Department, styrene (100425) in the Gems by Jim Department, and toluene (108883) and xylene (1330207) in the Box Filler Department. The ventilation systems used for contaminant control were evaluated, informal interviews with employees were conducted, and chemical handling practices were observed. All exposures were below recommended levels for all tasks monitored. Although the levels of silver (7440224) were below the NIOSH recommended exposure limit of systems, installed to control worker exposure to contaminants, were based on inappropriate design criteria. The author concludes that the silver level is of concern. The author recommends that controls to reduce exposure to silver fume be implemented, that employee training and respiratory protection programs be implemented, and that the exhaust ventilation system be improved.
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(1992) M and J Painting Company, Covington, Kentucky. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health Resources, an evaluation was undertaken of occupational health hazards experienced during repainting of the Brent Spence Bridge, a double level highway bridge over the Ohio River between Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio. M and J Painting Company (SIC-1622) was responsible for removal of the existing lead (7439921) based paint and corrosion with abrasive blasting within containment structures. Six NIOSH visits were made to the ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Kentucky Cabinet for Health Resources, an evaluation was undertaken of occupational health hazards experienced during repainting of the Brent Spence Bridge, a double level highway bridge over the Ohio River between Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio. M and J Painting Company (SIC-1622) was responsible for removal of the existing lead (7439921) based paint and corrosion with abrasive blasting within containment structures. Six NIOSH visits were made to the site. Ranges for personal exposures to airborne lead were 3,690 to 29,400 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3) for abrasive blasters and 5 to 6720microg/m3 for other job categories. Respirators in use were not sufficiently protective. Personal exposure to noise expressed as 8 hour time weighted averages ranged from 89.6 decibels-A to 105.4 decibels-A. The mean blood lead level increased from 29 micrograms/deciliter to 36 micrograms/deciliter among eight workers after approximately 1 month of work on the bridge. The authors conclude that a health hazard existed during paint removal on the bridge due to overexposure to lead and noise. The authors recommend specific measures for reducing the lead and noise exposures including improved engineering controls, work practices, respiratory protection program and personal hygiene facilities.
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