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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) The Mueller Company, Decatur, Illinois. (Click to open report) In response to a request from an authorized employee representative at the Mueller Company (SIC-3362), Decatur, Illinois, an evaluation was undertaken of formaldehyde (50000) exposures to employees in the core making room and pour deck areas. The Mueller Company is a grey iron and brass foundry producing valves for water and gas distribution service. Formaldehyde levels of 0.32 to 0.65 parts per million were recorded. Three of seven readings exceeded the OSHA permissible exposure limit of 1 part... (Click to show more)In response to a request from an authorized employee representative at the Mueller Company (SIC-3362), Decatur, Illinois, an evaluation was undertaken of formaldehyde (50000) exposures to employees in the core making room and pour deck areas. The Mueller Company is a grey iron and brass foundry producing valves for water and gas distribution service. Formaldehyde levels of 0.32 to 0.65 parts per million were recorded. Three of seven readings exceeded the OSHA permissible exposure limit of 1 part per million. Respirable dust sampling measured 4.34mg/m3 in the breathing zone of the muller operator and 1.46mg/m3 at a location 10 feet from the front of the muller at breathing zone height. Silica (14808607) content in these samples was 60.2% and 50.0%, respectively. Exposure to cadmium (7440439), lead (7439921), and zinc (7440666) on the pour deck exceeded one or more of the evaluation criteria; appropriate respiratory protection was used by workers in this area. Symptoms reported by the workers included headache, sinus pain, nausea, and eye irritation. Silicosis was verified in one worker. Formaldehyde related dermatitis was diagnosed in another. The authors conclude that there was a hazard from exposures to formaldehyde and silica. The authors recommend specific measures to reduce these hazardous exposures.
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(1992) U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Gallatin National Forest, Montana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service (NPS) an evaluation was undertaken of worker exposure to forest fire smoke at Gallatin National Forest, Montana. Personal breathing zone air samples were collected for carbon- monoxide (630080) (CO), sulfur-dioxide (7446095) (SO2), aldehydes, respirable particulate matter (RPM), and respirable crystalline silica (14808607). The CO exposure ranged up to 17 parts per million (ppm) which was below the NIOSH Recomme... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service (NPS) an evaluation was undertaken of worker exposure to forest fire smoke at Gallatin National Forest, Montana. Personal breathing zone air samples were collected for carbon- monoxide (630080) (CO), sulfur-dioxide (7446095) (SO2), aldehydes, respirable particulate matter (RPM), and respirable crystalline silica (14808607). The CO exposure ranged up to 17 parts per million (ppm) which was below the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit of 35ppm. SO2 concentrations ranged from 0.6 to 3.0ppm; three samples were above the recommended limit of 2ppm. Aldehyde concentrations were an order of magnitude or more below the evaluation criteria. Of the 14 samples analyzed for silica, one sample was above the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit for quartz of for SO2. Suggestions were made for the collecting of data during the current fire fighting season.
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(1992) U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, New River Gorge National River, West Virginia. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service a study was undertaken to characterize the exposure of forest fire fighting crews (SIC-0851) to chemical contaminants during the suppression of fires. Data were collected during the Gauley Mountain Fire at the New River Gorge National River in West Virginia. Eight hour time weighted average exposures ranged up to 9 parts per million (ppm) for both carbon-monoxide (630080) (CO) and sulfur-dioxide (7446095) (SO2).... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service a study was undertaken to characterize the exposure of forest fire fighting crews (SIC-0851) to chemical contaminants during the suppression of fires. Data were collected during the Gauley Mountain Fire at the New River Gorge National River in West Virginia. Eight hour time weighted average exposures ranged up to 9 parts per million (ppm) for both carbon-monoxide (630080) (CO) and sulfur-dioxide (7446095) (SO2). Of the 40 personal breathing zone measurements of SO2 exposure, 23 were at or above the NIOSH recommended exposure limit of 2ppm. Formaldehyde concentrations up to 0.10ppm were determined. No levels of silica (14808607) were detectable. Naphthalene (91203) measurements ranged up to 6.1 micrograms per cubic meter. The author concludes that fire fighters were overexposed to SO2 during wildfire suppression activities. The author recommends that SO2 exposures be reduced.
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(1992) U.S. Park Police, Washington, D.C. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the U.S. Park Police (SIC-9221), Washington, D.C., a study was undertaken of possible hazardous exposures to lead (7439921) at a new indoor firing range. Air sampling revealed that for students using the range during training, the 8 hour time weighted average (TWA) exposures ranged from 4.4 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3) to 116.4microg/m3 of airborne lead, with a mean of 32.5microg/m3. For range officers, the TWA exposures ranged from 0.15 to 52.6microg/m3, mean... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the U.S. Park Police (SIC-9221), Washington, D.C., a study was undertaken of possible hazardous exposures to lead (7439921) at a new indoor firing range. Air sampling revealed that for students using the range during training, the 8 hour time weighted average (TWA) exposures ranged from 4.4 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3) to 116.4microg/m3 of airborne lead, with a mean of 32.5microg/m3. For range officers, the TWA exposures ranged from 0.15 to 52.6microg/m3, mean 16.1microg/m3. Area samples ranged from 0.15 to 2291.1microg/m3. During qualification shooting, the 8 hour TWA exposures for students ranged from 1.0 to 103.8microg/m3, with a mean of 26.3microg/m3. For range officers, the 8 hour TWA exposures ranged from 9.7 to 39.8microg/m3, mean 18.0microg/m3. A smoke machine was used to visualize the air patterns in the firing range. It was found that contaminated air could be pulled from downrange to behind the shooting line. The authors conclude that overexposure to lead occurred during use of the firing range, due to deficiencies in the range ventilation system. The authors recommend specific measures to lessen the hazardous exposures.
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(1992) United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Atlantic City, New Jersey. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC), an investigation was undertaken of possible hazardous outcomes associated with members' chronic exposure to asbestos (1332214), lead (7439921), wood dust, formaldehyde (50000) and other toxic agents found in carpentry (SIC- 1751). NIOSH conducted pulmonary function screening and administered a questionnaire at a national convention of carpenters. Spirometry screening was undertaken to identify abnorm... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC), an investigation was undertaken of possible hazardous outcomes associated with members' chronic exposure to asbestos (1332214), lead (7439921), wood dust, formaldehyde (50000) and other toxic agents found in carpentry (SIC- 1751). NIOSH conducted pulmonary function screening and administered a questionnaire at a national convention of carpenters. Spirometry screening was undertaken to identify abnormal pulmonary function patterns across the trades represented by participating members of the UBC. Spirometry was performed on 762 subjects; 135 had abnormal spirometry patterns. Conclusions about the work relatedness of group spirometry results or respiratory history could not be drawn, nor could inferences be made concerning nonparticipants. The evaluation of existing pulmonary function status at a single point in time for the early detection of an abnormal condition constitutes a secondary prevention measure.
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(1992) United Technologies Automotive, Port Huron, Michigan. (Click to open report) In response to a request from an employee, an assessment was undertaken of possible hazardous working conditions at United Technologies Automotive (SIC-3714), Port Huron, Michigan. This company manufactured automotive headliners at two facilities in the city. Airborne fibrous glass, formaldehyde (50000), phenol (108952), trichloroethylene (79016) and volatile organic compound levels were measured at both facilities, and workers were interviewed concerning work related health problems. Formaldehy... (Click to show more)In response to a request from an employee, an assessment was undertaken of possible hazardous working conditions at United Technologies Automotive (SIC-3714), Port Huron, Michigan. This company manufactured automotive headliners at two facilities in the city. Airborne fibrous glass, formaldehyde (50000), phenol (108952), trichloroethylene (79016) and volatile organic compound levels were measured at both facilities, and workers were interviewed concerning work related health problems. Formaldehyde was found in measurable concentrations at both facilities. Trichloroethylene was measured at a concentration approaching the NIOSH recommended exposure limit (25 parts per million as a time weighted average). Fibrous glass dust was generated in most of the work areas. Measurements of the fibrous glass dust did not exceed recommended limits, but there was much evidence of workers suffering from the irritant effects of this dust in that eye, nose and throat irritations were commonplace and skin rashes were highly prevalent in both facilities. Exposure through direct contact may have been the major route of exposure. Interviewed workers also reported central nervous system symptoms such as headaches, tiredness, lightheadedness, dizziness, and problems with memory, mood or personality swings. The authors conclude that the symptoms may be related to workplace exposure. The authors recommend that exposure to formaldehyde and trichloroethylene be reduced to the lowest feasible concentrations. Exposures to fibrous glass, volatile organic ingredients in adhesive and decomposition products of heated materials should be controlled.
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(1992) Warner Amex, Cincinnati, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from employees of the Van Kirk location of Warner Cable Communications (SIC-4841), Cincinnati, Ohio a study was undertaken of possible exposures of workers to lead (7439921), electromagnetic radiation, asbestos (1332214), and poor air quality. The workers were also said to be suffering from psychological disorders as a result of being expected to work in inadequate conditions. The company stored, tested and repaired cable television converter boxes. In repairing the boxe... (Click to show more)In response to a request from employees of the Van Kirk location of Warner Cable Communications (SIC-4841), Cincinnati, Ohio a study was undertaken of possible exposures of workers to lead (7439921), electromagnetic radiation, asbestos (1332214), and poor air quality. The workers were also said to be suffering from psychological disorders as a result of being expected to work in inadequate conditions. The company stored, tested and repaired cable television converter boxes. In repairing the boxes, some parts were attached by soldering. Local exhaust ventilation was not provided. Sources of magnetic and electric fields included television sets and video display terminals used to test the boxes. Airborne lead and tin (7440315) concentrations were below minimum detectable concentrations in all samples except one. Carbon-dioxide (124389) concentrations were within the limits required for adequate ventilation. Temperature measurements were slightly above the recommended comfort range and the relative humidity levels were somewhat below the recommended levels. No asbestos fibers were detected. Thermal decomposition products of the solder were identified and may have been the cause of reported mucous membrane irritation. The authors conclude that no occupational health hazard was identified at this facility. The authors recommend measures to reduce potential lead exposures and provide a more comfortable working environment.
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(1992) William Powell Company, Cincinnati, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Ohio Department of Health, an evaluation was made of lead (7439921) exposures at the William Powell Company (SIC-3366), Cincinnati, Ohio. The company manufactured brass valves. At the time of the visit there were 44 workers at the foundry. Airborne lead concentrations exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit of 50 micrograms/cubic meter for three personal breathing zone samples and constituted a potential hazard to employees working in the pouring and cut of... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Ohio Department of Health, an evaluation was made of lead (7439921) exposures at the William Powell Company (SIC-3366), Cincinnati, Ohio. The company manufactured brass valves. At the time of the visit there were 44 workers at the foundry. Airborne lead concentrations exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit of 50 micrograms/cubic meter for three personal breathing zone samples and constituted a potential hazard to employees working in the pouring and cut off saw areas. Low concentrations of respirable quartz (14808607) were detected. Cadmium (7440439) was also present. The highest concentrations for both the stationary and continuous pouring operations occurred during the transport of the unventilated full ladle. The cumulative aerosol exposures from the continuous operation task were far greater than those from the stationary operation due to the greater amount of time the worker spent doing continuous pouring. The authors conclude that a potential hazard existed from lead levels in the pouring and cut off saw areas. The authors recommend several measures to reduce the exposure levels including a more efficient ventilation system and a redesign of some of the equipment in use.
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(1991) American Salt Company, Lyons, Kansas. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the project director of the International Chemical Workers Union, a study was undertaken of worker exposure to asbestos (1332214) and diesel emissions at the American Salt Company (SIC-1479) mine and mill, Lyons, Kansas. There were no detectable airborne asbestos exposures, but asbestos was identified in settled dust and bulk samples. The only detectable overexposure was to nitrogen-dioxide (10102440) (NO2). Five passive dosimeters analyzed for NO2 indicated full sh... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the project director of the International Chemical Workers Union, a study was undertaken of worker exposure to asbestos (1332214) and diesel emissions at the American Salt Company (SIC-1479) mine and mill, Lyons, Kansas. There were no detectable airborne asbestos exposures, but asbestos was identified in settled dust and bulk samples. The only detectable overexposure was to nitrogen-dioxide (10102440) (NO2). Five passive dosimeters analyzed for NO2 indicated full shift exposure levels ranging from 0.71 to 1.4 parts per million (ppm). Five coal-tar pitch volatile samples analyzed for benzene soluble fraction were below detectable levels. Carbon-monoxide (630080) was detected but was well below any hazardous levels. Forty seven employees participated in a medical study. Only two of these 47 worked underground. Radiographic evidence of pneumoconiosis was nonexistent among these employees. Four employees demonstrated mild obstruction on pulmonary function tests while one demonstrated severe obstruction and two had mild restriction of lung volume. The authors conclude that overexposures to NO2 existed during the survey. The authors recommend measures to minimize exposure to diesel exhaust, and control asbestos in settled dust. A followup medical study is recommended.
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(1991) ASARCO New Market/Young Mines, Mascot, Tennessee. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the International Chemical Workers Union, Akron, Ohio, an investigation was made into possible hazardous working conditions at two American Smelting and Refining Company (SIC-1031) zinc mines (New Market and Young) in Mascot, Tennessee. Specifically, exposures to asbestos (1332214), silica (14808607), and diesel emissions were determined. At both mines overexposures were found to nitrogen-dioxide (10102440) (NO2) and coal-tar pitch volatiles. Twenty four percent of ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the International Chemical Workers Union, Akron, Ohio, an investigation was made into possible hazardous working conditions at two American Smelting and Refining Company (SIC-1031) zinc mines (New Market and Young) in Mascot, Tennessee. Specifically, exposures to asbestos (1332214), silica (14808607), and diesel emissions were determined. At both mines overexposures were found to nitrogen-dioxide (10102440) (NO2) and coal-tar pitch volatiles. Twenty four percent of the NO2 measurements taken were above the NIOSH recommended ceiling of 1 part per million (ppm), but none exceeded the Mine Safety and Health Administration's (MSHA) ceiling of 5ppm. Exposure to diesel particulates ranged from 0.24 to 1.06mg/m3. None of the 52 respirable dust samples collected exceeded the calculated MSHA limits for free silica exposure. A medical evaluation was offered and 83 of the 400 current employees and one retired employee participated. Seven underground employees were found with small opacity readings of greater than 1/0. Pulmonary function tests indicated that four employees had moderate airway obstruction, 17 had mild obstruction and two had mild restriction of lung volume. Three with obstructive lung disease pattern also had positive radiographs for pneumoconiosis. The authors conclude that workers were overexposed to coal-tar pitch volatiles and NO2; radiographic and pulmonary function test results suggest that a chronic respiratory health effect may be related to cumulative workplace exposures. The authors recommend measures for lowering the exposures and the development of a medical surveillance program.
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