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HHE Search Results
477 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
(1979) Equitable Bag Company, Inc., Florence, Kentucky. (Click to open report) Environmental sampling, analyses of wet stock paper, confidential employee interviews, observation of work practices, and a review of the workplace and materials used were conducted to evaluate the possible exposure of 20 employees to formaldehyde (50000) at the Equitable Bag Company, Incorporated (SIC-7399) in Florence Kentucky. The request was made by an authorized employee representative and the evaluation was performed on January 12, August 10 and 16, and September 20, 1978. Personal and are... (Click to show more)Environmental sampling, analyses of wet stock paper, confidential employee interviews, observation of work practices, and a review of the workplace and materials used were conducted to evaluate the possible exposure of 20 employees to formaldehyde (50000) at the Equitable Bag Company, Incorporated (SIC-7399) in Florence Kentucky. The request was made by an authorized employee representative and the evaluation was performed on January 12, August 10 and 16, and September 20, 1978. Personal and area samples were analyzed for formaldehyde, acetaldehyde (75070) and valeraldehyde (110623). Propionaldehyde (123386) and butyraldehyde (123728) content also was measured. Personal and area samples for formaldehyde ranged from time weighted average exposure limit of 3ppm. Environmental samples for total aldehydes were below the analytical limits of detection. During medical interviews, workers complained of respiratory and eye irritations, chest discomfort, and dermatitis. The reports of symptoms were more common during the summer months. The author concludes that a potential for excessive formaldehyde exposure did exist especially during warm weather and recommends that a maximum number of exhaust fans be used during periods of elevated temperatures, additional ventilation be installed at locations where wet stock paper is processed or stored, periodic sampling be conducted to prevent overexposures to formaldehyde, and precautions be taken to avoid needless environmental contamination from bags of lead chromate pigment stored in the facility.
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(1979) Ethyl Corporation, Houston Plant, Pasadena, Texas. (Click to open report) Interviews with management and labor, consultations with the Medical Department, a review of personnel and medical records, and a questionnaire survey were conducted at the Ethyl Corporation (SIC- 2869), Houston, a facility in Pasadena, Texas on June 29, and August 1 to 3, 1978 to determine whether tetraethyl lead (78002) exposure was responsible for one case of multiple sclerosis, cardiac problems, and three cases of multiple myeloma. The investigation was requested by an authorized employee re... (Click to show more)Interviews with management and labor, consultations with the Medical Department, a review of personnel and medical records, and a questionnaire survey were conducted at the Ethyl Corporation (SIC- 2869), Houston, a facility in Pasadena, Texas on June 29, and August 1 to 3, 1978 to determine whether tetraethyl lead (78002) exposure was responsible for one case of multiple sclerosis, cardiac problems, and three cases of multiple myeloma. The investigation was requested by an authorized employee representative of the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers Union. The Houston facility employed 1,100 workers, and 850 of these were considered to be affected. The mortality for employees was lower than expected for the general population, but there was a larger number of observed cancer deaths than expected. All cancer deaths occurred in individuals with more than 5 years exposure. The authors conclude that no current acute illnesses could be related to job exposures, but that a few occupational injuries and chemical exposures, primarily to lead (7439921) were found. Performance of a comprehensive epidemiological study to assess the cancer risk of this population is recommended. Ventilation improvements also are suggested.
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(1979) Giorgi Process Inc., Yonkers, New York. (Click to open report) Work practices and materials used and previous results of chelation therapy and urine, blood, and hair lead (7439921) analyses were studied to investigate sources of potential exposure to lead in the photographic studio of the Giorgi Process, Inc. (SIC-7333) in Yonkers, New York on December 27, 1978 and January 31, 1979. An authorized representative of the employees at Giorgi Process, Inc. requested the investigation for approximately three employees. Hair lead analyses completed in November and... (Click to show more)Work practices and materials used and previous results of chelation therapy and urine, blood, and hair lead (7439921) analyses were studied to investigate sources of potential exposure to lead in the photographic studio of the Giorgi Process, Inc. (SIC-7333) in Yonkers, New York on December 27, 1978 and January 31, 1979. An authorized representative of the employees at Giorgi Process, Inc. requested the investigation for approximately three employees. Hair lead analyses completed in November and December 1976 showed 38 parts per million (ppm) and 76ppm respectively, indicating mild lead poisoning. The investigators conclude that confirmation of diagnosis of lead intoxication was not possible since all laboratory work was normal except for one hair lead. No lead hazard was identified. The investigators recommend that absorption and ingestion of photographic dyes be avoided by use of protective finger coverings, frequent handwashing, or application of dyes with a cotton swab.
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(1979) Greenheck Fan Corporation, Schofield, Wisconsin. (Click to open report) An environmental and medical evaluation was performed at the Greenheck Fan Corporation (SIC-3564), Schofield, Wisconsin on November 7 and 8, 1978, and March 6, 1979 at the request of an authorized representative of Local 565, Sheet Metals Workers International Association, AFL/CIO, concerning worker complaints of eye irritations, foul taste, and skin irritations during powdered paint operations. The corporation has 180 production and 100 administrative employees. Chromium (7440473), barium (7440... (Click to show more)An environmental and medical evaluation was performed at the Greenheck Fan Corporation (SIC-3564), Schofield, Wisconsin on November 7 and 8, 1978, and March 6, 1979 at the request of an authorized representative of Local 565, Sheet Metals Workers International Association, AFL/CIO, concerning worker complaints of eye irritations, foul taste, and skin irritations during powdered paint operations. The corporation has 180 production and 100 administrative employees. Chromium (7440473), barium (7440393), lead (7439921), quartz (14808607), cristobalite (14464461), cadmium (7440439), epichlorohydrin (106898), and trimellitic-anhydride (552307) were undetectable in bulk samples, or present only in trace amounts. Personal and area air samples for toluene (108883), benzene (71432), xylene (1330207) and mineral spirits were below the environmental criteria of 375, 3.2, 434, and 350 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3), respectively. Two respirable dust samples exceeded 10 mg/m3, and measured concentrations of bisphenol-A (80057) and diglycidyl-ether of bisphenol-A (1675543) (0.173 to 1.063 mg/m3, and 0.087 to 0.2mg/m3 respectively) were considered excessive and potentially toxic. During medical interviews, workers reported symptoms of irritated eyes and throat, episodes of respiratory difficulties, and rashes. Ventilation was considered inadequate. The authors conclude that excessive amounts of airborne contaminants were present in three areas of the facility. They recommend improved work practices and housekeeping, a modified respiratory protection program, adequate personal protective clothing, medical surveillance, and a review of emergency procedures.
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(1979) Kennecott Smelter, Garfield, Utah. (Click to open report) Breathing zone and general room air samples were collected and analyzed for arsenic (7440382), copper (7440508), lead (7439921), molybdenum (7439987) and selenium (7782492) content at the Kennecott Smelter (SIC-3331) in Garfield, Utah, on October 25 and 26 and December 13 and 14, 1978; and January 8 to 11, 1979 at the request of a representative from Local 4347, U.S. Steelworkers, on behalf of approximately 150 affected workers. Medical evaluations were conducted for 40 workers. Air samples were... (Click to show more)Breathing zone and general room air samples were collected and analyzed for arsenic (7440382), copper (7440508), lead (7439921), molybdenum (7439987) and selenium (7782492) content at the Kennecott Smelter (SIC-3331) in Garfield, Utah, on October 25 and 26 and December 13 and 14, 1978; and January 8 to 11, 1979 at the request of a representative from Local 4347, U.S. Steelworkers, on behalf of approximately 150 affected workers. Medical evaluations were conducted for 40 workers. Air samples were analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Concentrations of lead, arsenic, and copper exceeded the OSHA standards of 0.05, 0.01, and 1.0 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3), respectively. No overexposures to molybdenum or selenium were found. Medical evaluations confirmed respiratory system complaints, including nasal and lung irritation with or without breathing difficulties. Ten men had unacceptably high blood-lead levels. The authors conclude that approximately 20 percent of the workers were overexposed to arsenic, lead, and copper, and a health hazard did exist in the reactor areas. The most serious health hazard was an inadequate respirator program. Recommendations resulting from the evaluation included environmental and engineering control improvements, use of personal protective equipment, housekeeping improvements, and careful medical surveillance.
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(1979) Kentile Floors, Inc, South Plainfield, New Jersey. (Click to open report) In response to a request from an authorized employee representative from Kentile Floors, Incorporated (SIC-3292), South Plainfield, New Jersey, air sampling, medical interviews and evaluations, a review of the company's respirator program, observations of employee work practices, and a materials review were conducted on June 28 and 29, and October 11 and 12, 1978 to assess possible exposures to vinyl- chloride-monomer (75014), dyes, and pigments. The company employed 275 workers and 50 were cons... (Click to show more)In response to a request from an authorized employee representative from Kentile Floors, Incorporated (SIC-3292), South Plainfield, New Jersey, air sampling, medical interviews and evaluations, a review of the company's respirator program, observations of employee work practices, and a materials review were conducted on June 28 and 29, and October 11 and 12, 1978 to assess possible exposures to vinyl- chloride-monomer (75014), dyes, and pigments. The company employed 275 workers and 50 were considered to be affected. Personal and area air samples were collected at various sites throughout the facility, and were analyzed for concentrations of carbon-black (1333864), benzene, (71432), polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, mineral spirits, methyl-chloroform (71556), barium (7440393), cadmium (7440439), lead (7439921), and total nuisance particulates. Bulk samples were analyzed for talc (14807966) and carbon-black. Two inorganic lead samples exceeded the OSHA standard of 0.05 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/cum). Four total nuisance particulate samples exceeded the OSHA standard of 15.0mg/cum. Concentrations for all other contaminants were below the OSHA recommended criteria. No medical evidence of work related illness was detected at the facility. Recommendations were made by NIOSH to improve workplace hygiene and employee work habits, and for periodic inspection and maintenance of engineering controls.
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(1979) Kentile Floors, Inc., Chicago, Illinois. (Click to open report) Due to suspected worker exposure to asbestos (1332214), polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNA), vinyl-chloride (75014), talc (14807966), alpha-methyl-styrene (98839), and numerous organic and inorganic dyes and pigments, a hazard evaluation was undertaken at Kentile Floors, Inc., Chicago, Illinois. This company produced vinyl/asbestos and asphalt/asbestos floor coverings. The only contaminant which exceeded limits of exposure was asbestos with eight of 30 samples exceeding 0.10 fibers/cubic cen... (Click to show more)Due to suspected worker exposure to asbestos (1332214), polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNA), vinyl-chloride (75014), talc (14807966), alpha-methyl-styrene (98839), and numerous organic and inorganic dyes and pigments, a hazard evaluation was undertaken at Kentile Floors, Inc., Chicago, Illinois. This company produced vinyl/asbestos and asphalt/asbestos floor coverings. The only contaminant which exceeded limits of exposure was asbestos with eight of 30 samples exceeding 0.10 fibers/cubic centimeter. No cases of asbestosis were found in past or present workers at this facility. Dyes were not used by the company, and alpha-methyl- styrene was no longer used. The authors recommend that the company review their materials list to determine which chemicals are potentially toxic and monitor these chemicals periodically and that carcinogens be identified and stored away from other chemicals. Employees should be be instructed in the proper use of respirators, and respirators should be worn during filling of drums. Safety glasses and side shields should be worn when working on or near the recycling conveyor belts. The ventilation and exhaust systems should be examined to be certain they are effective. Clothing exposed to possible asbestos contamination should be maintained at the facility and not taken home with the workers.
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(1979) La Salle College, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) Environmental surveys were conducted on October 19, 1978, to evaluate employee exposures to lead (7439921) fumes, carbon monoxide (630080), and nitrogen dioxide (10102440) gases in the indoor firing range at La Salle College (SIC-9711) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The evaluation was requested by an authorized representative of the Department of Military Science on behalf of the approximately two affected employees. Personal air lead samples ranged from 319 to 583 micrograms per cubic meter and... (Click to show more)Environmental surveys were conducted on October 19, 1978, to evaluate employee exposures to lead (7439921) fumes, carbon monoxide (630080), and nitrogen dioxide (10102440) gases in the indoor firing range at La Salle College (SIC-9711) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The evaluation was requested by an authorized representative of the Department of Military Science on behalf of the approximately two affected employees. Personal air lead samples ranged from 319 to 583 micrograms per cubic meter and general air lead samples ranged from 511 to 791, exceeding the 200 micrograms per cubic meter OSHA standard. Concentrations of carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide were below their respective evaluation criteria. The author concludes that a health hazard did exist due to exposures to lead. The author recommends that an extensive ventilation system be installed and maintained, that appropriate sound proofing measures be taken to minimize sound levels, that cleanup be done using vacuum cleaning equipment and respirators, that instructors be monitored for blood lead concentrations and be rotated with other duties periodically, and that eating, drinking, and smoking in the range be prohibited.
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(1979) Lenox China, Inc., Pomona, New Jersey. (Click to open report) An environmental and medical survey was conducted on February 28 and March 1, 1979 at Lenox China, Inc. (SIC-3269) Pomona, New Jersey, to evaluate the exposure of approximately 30 employees to hydrochloric- acid (7647010), inorganic lead (7439921), and total particulates. The survey was prompted by a request from an authorized representative of Local 236, International Brotherhood of Pottery and Allied Workers. Breathing zone air sample tests revealed that exposures to lead of 0.01 to 0.87 milli... (Click to show more)An environmental and medical survey was conducted on February 28 and March 1, 1979 at Lenox China, Inc. (SIC-3269) Pomona, New Jersey, to evaluate the exposure of approximately 30 employees to hydrochloric- acid (7647010), inorganic lead (7439921), and total particulates. The survey was prompted by a request from an authorized representative of Local 236, International Brotherhood of Pottery and Allied Workers. Breathing zone air sample tests revealed that exposures to lead of 0.01 to 0.87 milligrams per cubic meter of air (mg/cu m) exceeded OSHA standards of 0.05 mg/cu m for 3 to 10 die makers. Plaster mixer operators were exposed to levels of total particulates (1.4 to 16.5 mg/cu m) that exceeded OSHA limits (15 mg/cu m) in four instances. All concentrations of hydrochloric-acid were below OSHA standards of 5 parts per million parts of air. Ten of 25 workers reported health problems that they attributed to work. Blood lead level samples taken for five employees were normal. It is concluded that lead and total particulate exposure levels constituted a potential hazard. Improvements in the company's medical program, increases in the use of protective clothing and equipment, and improvements in engineering controls are recommended.
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(1979) Minerals Reclamation Corporation, Adell and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Click for full summary) The health of workers was evaluated August 24 and 25, 1978, at the Minerals Reclamation Corporation in Adell and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to determine the health effects of employee exposure to lead (7439921). The evaluation was requested by OSHA on behalf of an unspecified number of workers after air sampling and wipe samples revealed lead concentrations in excess of the OSHA standard of 0.2 milligrams of lead per cubic meter of air. Of the 15 workers, all had blood lead concentrations higher than... (Click to show more)The health of workers was evaluated August 24 and 25, 1978, at the Minerals Reclamation Corporation in Adell and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to determine the health effects of employee exposure to lead (7439921). The evaluation was requested by OSHA on behalf of an unspecified number of workers after air sampling and wipe samples revealed lead concentrations in excess of the OSHA standard of 0.2 milligrams of lead per cubic meter of air. Of the 15 workers, all had blood lead concentrations higher than the NIOSH evaluation criteria of 60 micrograms per deciliter except for one worker who had been exposed to lead for only 1 week. Hemoglobin and hematocrit values were below the normal range. About 34 percent of the exposed workers had signs of weakness. The investigators conclude that lead exposure is a health hazard for employees in both facilities. They recommend that immediate steps be taken to reduce exposure to lead through engineering and administrative controls, and improved housekeeping, with personal protective equipment used only as an interim measure until other methods are put into effect. They recommend further evaluation and possible treatment of the four most severely affected workers.
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