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HHE Search Results
474 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
(1978) Delco Battery Plant, Muncie, Indiana. (Click to open report) Personal and environmental lead (7439921) samples were collected at the Delco Battery Company (SIC-3691) in Muncie, Indiana on February 16 to 17, March 21 to 23, April 4 to 6, and August 25 to 27, 1977. The evaluation was requested by a representative of Local 489, United Autoworkers of America on behalf of approximately 600 affected employees. The workers expressed concern that the company's medical evaluation program was inadequate and was underestimating personal lead exposures. Environmental... (Click to show more)Personal and environmental lead (7439921) samples were collected at the Delco Battery Company (SIC-3691) in Muncie, Indiana on February 16 to 17, March 21 to 23, April 4 to 6, and August 25 to 27, 1977. The evaluation was requested by a representative of Local 489, United Autoworkers of America on behalf of approximately 600 affected employees. The workers expressed concern that the company's medical evaluation program was inadequate and was underestimating personal lead exposures. Environmental sampling was conducted in eight departments and employees were given medical questionnaires and examinations. Environmental lead concentrations ranged from 0.01 to 0.30 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). In five of the eight departments, lead concentrations exceeded the proposed OSHA standard of 0.10mg/m3; three of the five exceeded the current standard of 0.20mg/m3. Blood samples taken during the medical examination were sent to three different laboratories, including the one used by Delco; no clinical or statistical difference was found between the lead values determined by the three laboratories. Zinc protoporphyrin values gave a general indication of blood lead concentrations but could not be substituted for actual blood lead determinations. The questionnaires revealed many work related health complaints among the employees. Workers with complaints had higher mean blood lead values than those without complaints, but the higher lead value was not diagnostic. Heavy smokers had greater blood lead concentrations than nonsmokers. The authors conclude that the company medical program provides adequate lead monitoring measures. They recommend that smoking and the carrying of smoking or eating materials in lead exposure areas be prohibited, that air and blood lead concentrations be reduced to current NIOSH exposure standards, and that instruction in the use of respirators be provided. Recommendations for the assessment of medical problems and refinement of certain procedures are also provided.
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(1978) FMC Corporation, Bearing Division, Indianapolis, Indiana. (Click for full summary) An evaluation regarding exposure to silver (7440224) solder, coolants, cutting-oil and lead (7439921) during the manufacture of bearings and housings for all types of heavy equipment (SIC-3562) was made at FMC Corporation Bearing Division. Ten employees were interviewed using a nondirected questionnaire designed to elicit symptomatology possibly related to health problems arising from their work environments. Several of the employees complained about dermatitis that may be attributed to the cool... (Click to show more)An evaluation regarding exposure to silver (7440224) solder, coolants, cutting-oil and lead (7439921) during the manufacture of bearings and housings for all types of heavy equipment (SIC-3562) was made at FMC Corporation Bearing Division. Ten employees were interviewed using a nondirected questionnaire designed to elicit symptomatology possibly related to health problems arising from their work environments. Several of the employees complained about dermatitis that may be attributed to the coolants and cutting-oil. Personal and general area air samples were used to evaluate employee exposures. Employees' exposure to airborne concentrations of oil mist, lead, antimony (7440360) fluorides, silver, cadmium (7440439) and chlorine (7782505) did not pose a health hazard at the concentrations measured. Apparent skin dermatitis was observed on 8 of 16 screw machine operators interviewed. The condition observed appeared to be characteristic of that caused by excessive direct skin contact with mineral-oil (oil acne or folliculitis). Eye strain and headaches were also reported by 13 of 16 persons from the same subject group allegedly due to inadequate lighting. Apparent skin dermatitis was observed also on 6 of 25 grinder operators which appeared to be characteristic of that caused by excessive skin contact with cutting-oil/coolants. Occasional symptoms of throat dryness and nose irritation were also reported.
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Contact us to obtain a copy of report HHE-77-082-463.
(1978) FMC Corporation, Indianapolis, Indiana. (Click to open report) Health hazards were evaluated for airborne concentrations of oil mist, lead (7439921), antimony (7440360), fluorides, silver (7440224), cadmium (7440439), copper (7440508), and chlorine (7782505) at the FMC Corporation, Indianapolis, Indiana, in June and September 1977. The survey focused on 150 employees involved in the manufacture of bearings and housings for heavy equipment. The survey was requested by Local 1150 of the United Steel Workers of America. Several employers complained of dermatit... (Click to show more)Health hazards were evaluated for airborne concentrations of oil mist, lead (7439921), antimony (7440360), fluorides, silver (7440224), cadmium (7440439), copper (7440508), and chlorine (7782505) at the FMC Corporation, Indianapolis, Indiana, in June and September 1977. The survey focused on 150 employees involved in the manufacture of bearings and housings for heavy equipment. The survey was requested by Local 1150 of the United Steel Workers of America. Several employers complained of dermatitis attributed to coolants and cutting oil. Personal and general area air samples were used to evaluate employee exposures. Skin dermatitis was observed in 8 of 16 screw machine operators interviewed. Conditions observed appeared to be characteristic of excessive direct skin contact with mineral oil (oil acne or folliculitis). Eye strain and headaches were reported by 13 of 16 persons from the same group and were allegedly due to inadequate lighting. Skin dermatitis that appeared to be characteristic of excessive skin contact with cutting oil or coolants was observed in 6 of 25 grinder operators. Occasional symptoms of throat dryness and nose irritation were also reported. Environmental sampling indicated that none of the samples exceeded current standards. The authors conclude that, on the basis of environmental sampling, employee exposure to airborne concentrations of oil mist, lead, antimony, fluorides, silver, cadmium, copper, and chlorine does not exceed recommended environmental criteria within the worksite areas.
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(1978) Fountain Foundry, Inc., Pueblo, Colorado. (Click to open report) An investigation to evaluate the potential exposures to lead (7439921), free silica (7631869) and total particulate during the operation of a grey iron (7439896) foundry (SIC-3321) has been performed. The foundry takes scrap metal (usually a mixture of cast iron and various other metal parts) and produces a molten metal from a furnace charged with coke and limestone. The molten metal is then poured into various types of sand molds, where products such as manhole covers are formed. Breathing zone... (Click to show more)An investigation to evaluate the potential exposures to lead (7439921), free silica (7631869) and total particulate during the operation of a grey iron (7439896) foundry (SIC-3321) has been performed. The foundry takes scrap metal (usually a mixture of cast iron and various other metal parts) and produces a molten metal from a furnace charged with coke and limestone. The molten metal is then poured into various types of sand molds, where products such as manhole covers are formed. Breathing zone air samples were taken for lead, free silica, and total particulate. A medical evaluation of 19 workers was also conducted. This evaluation included a medical history and physical examination with blood and urine biological tests. Two of 19 workers met the case definition for lead toxicity based on blood chemical analysis. Breathing zone air samples for lead exceeded recommended exposure criteria. Considerable exposure to total particulate containing free silica was also detected. It has been determined on the basis of medical and environmental evidence that a potential health hazard existed to workers exposed to lead and possible free silica at the foundry during this evaluation.
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(1978) Gould and Company, Kankakee, Illinois. (Click for full summary) Medical examinations were conducted to determine lead (7439921) exposures among workers at Gould and Company (SIC-3692) in Kankakee, Illinois, on October 11, 18, and 25, 1976. OSHA requested the evaluation as a follow up survey after the facility had been cited for air lead standard violations about one year earlier. Zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) blood tests were performed on 278 workers. Further blood, neurological and urinary tests were performed on 109 workers with elevated ZPP concentrations or ... (Click to show more)Medical examinations were conducted to determine lead (7439921) exposures among workers at Gould and Company (SIC-3692) in Kankakee, Illinois, on October 11, 18, and 25, 1976. OSHA requested the evaluation as a follow up survey after the facility had been cited for air lead standard violations about one year earlier. Zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) blood tests were performed on 278 workers. Further blood, neurological and urinary tests were performed on 109 workers with elevated ZPP concentrations or who worked in high lead exposure areas. Seventy five percent of all workers tested had blood lead concentrations equal to or greater than 40 micrograms per 100 milliliter (micrograms/mL), and nine percent had blood lead concentrations exceeding 60 micrograms/mL, but not over 70 micrograms/mL. Elevated blood pressures were noted in 40 percent, and nine and 10 percent had low hematocrits and hemoglobin, respectively. High uric acid, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine concentrations were found in 4, 12, and 7 percent of the workers, respectively. Eleven percent had abnormal urinalysis results and 42 percent exhibited abnormal neurological findings. The authors recommend that workers with blood lead concentrations above 60 micrograms/mL should be retested and removed from exposure to lead if new tests confirm the previous results, referral of workers with elevated blood lead concentrations to a physician, and that the lead exposure abatement program should proceed as quickly as possible.
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(1978) Gould, Inc., Kankakee, Illinois, Sherwin Williams, Coffeyville, Kansas; and N. L. Industries, Fremont, Nebraska. (Click for full summary) Medical factors were evaluated between September 29 and November 12, 1976, to determine possible health problems from lead (7439921) exposure at Gould, Incorporated (SIC-3691) Kankakee, Illinois; Sherwin Williams (SIC-2865), Coffeyville, Kansas; and N.L. Industries (SIC-3562), Fremont, Nebraska. The evaluation was requested by OSHA on behalf of 614 exposed employees at the three facilities. Blood lead concentrations of workers in the inorganic chemical facility were normal, while those of other ... (Click to show more)Medical factors were evaluated between September 29 and November 12, 1976, to determine possible health problems from lead (7439921) exposure at Gould, Incorporated (SIC-3691) Kankakee, Illinois; Sherwin Williams (SIC-2865), Coffeyville, Kansas; and N.L. Industries (SIC-3562), Fremont, Nebraska. The evaluation was requested by OSHA on behalf of 614 exposed employees at the three facilities. Blood lead concentrations of workers in the inorganic chemical facility were normal, while those of other workers were elevated but within the acceptable range of 40 to 60 micrograms per 100 milliliters of whole blood. Workers in the inorganic chemicals facility had abnormally high serum creatinine values but the values were not related to lead exposure. Serum uric-acids were significantly higher than expected and hemoglobins and hematocrits lower than expected, particularly in relation to elevated zinc protoprophyrin determinations. Most values were within the normal range. The investigators note that OSHA time weighted average exposure standard for lead is 0.20 milligrams per cubic meter. They conclude that lead may affect body functions even at blood lead concentrations considered acceptable at the time of the study. They recommend further evaluation of the cause of high serum creatinine values among workers in the inorganic chemicals facility.
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Contact us to obtain a copy of report TA-76-105; TA-76-106; TA-76-107.
(1978) Hospital Medical Corporation, Littleton, Colorado. (Click for full summary) Personal and general air samples were taken on May 23 and 24, 1978 at Hospital Medical Corporation (SIC-8069) in Littleton, Colorado to determine employee exposure to toxic concentrations of toluene (108883), methylene chloride (75092), xylene (1330207), acetone (67641), 1,1,1-trichloroethylene (79016), methyl ethyl ketone (78933), vinyl chloride (75014), ethylene oxide (75218), methylene bisphenyl isocyanate (101688) (MDI), oil mist, lead (7439921) (Pb), and tin (7440315). The evaluation was re... (Click to show more)Personal and general air samples were taken on May 23 and 24, 1978 at Hospital Medical Corporation (SIC-8069) in Littleton, Colorado to determine employee exposure to toxic concentrations of toluene (108883), methylene chloride (75092), xylene (1330207), acetone (67641), 1,1,1-trichloroethylene (79016), methyl ethyl ketone (78933), vinyl chloride (75014), ethylene oxide (75218), methylene bisphenyl isocyanate (101688) (MDI), oil mist, lead (7439921) (Pb), and tin (7440315). The evaluation was requested by the management on behalf of about 100 affected employees. All sample measurements were below OSHA recommended standards. The authors conclude that a health hazard did not exist at the time of the survey. They recommend that workers should not inhale vapors coming from the sterilization unit; entrance to the ethylene oxide area should be restricted; employees should be educated about the hazards associated with the production process materials; and good work practices and first aid should be taught.
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Contact us to obtain a copy of report HHE-78-70-528.
(1978) Houston Chemical Company, Beaumont, Texas. (Click to open report) In response to a request from an authorized representative of employees at the Houston Chemical Company, Beaumont, Texas, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at that site. The company was founded in 1961 and employed about 56 persons. Organic chemicals were produced on site including ethylene- dibromide (106934). The current EDB reactor was brought on line in 1977. General area samples and personal samples were tested for EDB and other airborne organic vapor con... (Click to show more)In response to a request from an authorized representative of employees at the Houston Chemical Company, Beaumont, Texas, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at that site. The company was founded in 1961 and employed about 56 persons. Organic chemicals were produced on site including ethylene- dibromide (106934). The current EDB reactor was brought on line in 1977. General area samples and personal samples were tested for EDB and other airborne organic vapor contaminants. Medical evaluations were conducted for 24 workers and nine controls. Evidence indicated there was a potential exposure to EDB, but there was no evidence of testicular toxicity as monitored by sperm counting. The authors conclude that a health hazard did not exist at the time of the survey. It is recommended that strict adherence be given to personal hygiene and good work practices, that one person per shift be responsible for maintaining respirators, that management continue developing its industrial hygiene program, that management continue developing its health and safety education and awareness program, and that several courses be provided for health and safety personnel. The current medical program should be maintained along with special lead (7439921) surveillance programs.
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(1978) Inland Steel Company, 10 and 14 Inch Merchant Mills, 3210 Waitling Street, East Chicago, Indiana. (Click to open report) Environmental air sampling and employee interviews were conducted on March 14 to 16, 1978 at Inland Steel Company (SIC-332) in East Chicago, Indiana to evaluate worker exposures to coke oven gas fired furnace emissions, iron-oxide (1309371) lead (7439921). The evaluation was requested by an authorized representative of the United Steelworkers of America, Local 1010, on behalf of approximately 150 affected employees. Personal and area air sample concentrations of nitrogen-dioxide (10102440) and s... (Click to show more)Environmental air sampling and employee interviews were conducted on March 14 to 16, 1978 at Inland Steel Company (SIC-332) in East Chicago, Indiana to evaluate worker exposures to coke oven gas fired furnace emissions, iron-oxide (1309371) lead (7439921). The evaluation was requested by an authorized representative of the United Steelworkers of America, Local 1010, on behalf of approximately 150 affected employees. Personal and area air sample concentrations of nitrogen-dioxide (10102440) and sulfur-dioxide (7446095) were below OSHA standards of 5 parts per million for each substance. One worker was exposed to concentrations of lead in excess of the proposed OSHA standard of 0.1 milligram per cubic meter (mg/m3), and one worker was exposed to excessive concentrations of iron-oxide (OSHA standard is 5mg/m3). Common health complaints among the workers included chest pain, headaches, and eye and throat irritation; these were consistent with sulfur- dioxide exposure. The authors conclude that a hazard exists at this facility due to sulfur-dioxide exposure. Recommendations are provided to reduce exposures through improved work and hygiene practices, changes in ventilation, medical and environmental monitoring, and use of respirators.
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(1978) Inland Steel Company, Indiana Harbor Works, East Chicago, Indiana. (Click to open report) An investigation regarding employee exposure to inorganic lead (7439921) during the production of leaded steel for precision products of good machinability (SIC-3325) has been conducted. The area of concern was in the pouring stand of the Pit section of the basic oxygen furnace shop. Atmospheric samples for lead were collected on Millipore filters Type AA (mixed cellulose ester) with breathing zone using a battery powered vacuum pump. Area samples were collected with the same equipment along the... (Click to show more)An investigation regarding employee exposure to inorganic lead (7439921) during the production of leaded steel for precision products of good machinability (SIC-3325) has been conducted. The area of concern was in the pouring stand of the Pit section of the basic oxygen furnace shop. Atmospheric samples for lead were collected on Millipore filters Type AA (mixed cellulose ester) with breathing zone using a battery powered vacuum pump. Area samples were collected with the same equipment along the pouring stand. The medical evaluation included interviews, physical examinations, and blood chemical analysis. It has been determined that a potential hazard to the health of the workers exposed to lead dust and fumes exists. Ten of thirteen personal samples for inorganic lead exceeded the proposed 100 micrograms of lead per cubic meter of air (microgram/M3). Eight personal samples exceeded the current lead standard of 200 micrograms/M3. These concentrations ranged from 25 to 2600 micrograms/M3 of lead. Of the 16 blood lead analyses, three were in excess of 60 micrograms of lead per 100 milliliters of whole blood (60 micrograms/100ml), five were in the range of 40 to 60 micrograms/100ml, and eight were less than 40 micrograms/100ml. It is recommended that a blood lead level of 60 micrograms/100ml or less be allowed as a safe concentration.
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