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HHE Search Results
1060 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
(1989) Flying W Plastics Company, Glenville, West Virginia. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the management of Flying W Plastics Company (SIC-3079), Glenville, West Virginia an investigation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at that site. Particular concern was expressed regarding noise, dust and vapor exposures arising from the fabrication of polyethylene, polystyrene, and polyvinyl-chloride (9002862) (PVC) pipe and pipe fittings. Analysis of air samples indicated that largely aliphatic hydrocarbons, toluene (108883), xylene (1330207), meth... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the management of Flying W Plastics Company (SIC-3079), Glenville, West Virginia an investigation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at that site. Particular concern was expressed regarding noise, dust and vapor exposures arising from the fabrication of polyethylene, polystyrene, and polyvinyl-chloride (9002862) (PVC) pipe and pipe fittings. Analysis of air samples indicated that largely aliphatic hydrocarbons, toluene (108883), xylene (1330207), methylene-chloride (75092), and 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556) were present at low levels. In the samples tested, di-n-butyl-phthalate (84742) and di- cyclohexyl-phthalate (84617) were below detectable levels. Some of the workers were exposed to PVC dusts at concentrations ranging from for 1 year or less. Sections of the asbestos (1332214) insulation on the Braybender machine were damaged and could present an exposure hazard. Some employees were exposed to hazardous levels of noise, including the grinder, line take off attendant, and hopper attendant. Hearing protection was used by workers in the grinding area but not in the other noisy areas. A large unguarded chain drive was noted in the warehouse grinding area on the blending machine which did present a hazard to the workers. The author concludes that hazards existed at the facility due to exposure to noise, asbestos insulation and PVC dust; a safety hazard existed from an unguarded chain drive. The author recommends specific measures to correct these problems.
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(1989) Georgia Gulf Corporation, Tiptonville, Tennessee. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Georgia Gulf Corporation (SIC- 3079), Tiptonville, Tennessee, an investigation was made of an outbreak of dermatitis at this facility. The facility produced polyvinyl-chloride (9002862) compound by blending polyvinyl-chloride resin with other ingredients. Rashes were reported by 22 production workers and three clerical or management workers. Examination of seven of the workers indicated that all of them appeared to have contact dermatitis. Rashes were found in a... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Georgia Gulf Corporation (SIC- 3079), Tiptonville, Tennessee, an investigation was made of an outbreak of dermatitis at this facility. The facility produced polyvinyl-chloride (9002862) compound by blending polyvinyl-chloride resin with other ingredients. Rashes were reported by 22 production workers and three clerical or management workers. Examination of seven of the workers indicated that all of them appeared to have contact dermatitis. Rashes were found in areas of the body where powders may come in contact with the body, and the rashes improved when away from work. Blender operators had a significantly elevated risk of developing dermatitis compared with production workers who had lower exposures to dusts and powders. The authors conclude that the dermatitis was probably of occupational origin, due to exposure to airborne pigment powders and acrylic polymers containing residual monomers. The authors recommend measures to reduce exposures and prevent dermatitis, including showering at the end of a work shift that involved exposure to dusts and powders, reduction of airborne dust levels through engineering controls, and the use of protective clothing, barrier creams, and skin moisturizers.
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(1989) Hoeganaes Magnetic Materials, Rancocas, New Jersey. (Click to open report) In response to an employee request, an evaluation was undertaken of possible hazardous working conditions at Hoeganaes Magnetic Materials (SIC-3499), Rancocas, New Jersey. Dermatitis and gastrointestinal problems were cited in the request. Magnets were produced at this site which contain the pyrophoric rare earth metals dysprosium (7429916) and neodymium (7440008) along with other materials. Personal breathing zone and general area air samples were taken for trace metals. Concentrations of iron-... (Click to show more)In response to an employee request, an evaluation was undertaken of possible hazardous working conditions at Hoeganaes Magnetic Materials (SIC-3499), Rancocas, New Jersey. Dermatitis and gastrointestinal problems were cited in the request. Magnets were produced at this site which contain the pyrophoric rare earth metals dysprosium (7429916) and neodymium (7440008) along with other materials. Personal breathing zone and general area air samples were taken for trace metals. Concentrations of iron-oxide (1309371) ranged from 0.05 to 9.5mg/m3. Neodymium concentrations ranged from processing room where the magnetic powders were crushed, blended and milled. Concentrations of dysprosium ranged from 0.002 to exposures to neodymium and iron-oxide. Thallium exposures may present a hazard if in soluble form. The authors recommend the reduction of worker exposure to neodymium, iron and thallium through engineering controls using local exhaust ventilation at the crushing, blending and jet milling operations. A respirator program should be implemented.
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(1989) Keebler Company, Atlanta, Georgia. (Click to open report) In response to a request from an authorized representative of Local 412, Bakery, Confectionery, and Tobacco Workers (BCTW) Union, an evaluation was made of possible health hazards at the Keebler Company (SIC-2052), Atlanta, Georgia. Of specific concern were exposure to raw materials and chemicals in the Mixing Department, the possible use of asbestos (1332214) in insulation in an area used for proofing, exposure to airborne contaminants or carcinogens through inhalation or direct handling of the... (Click to show more)In response to a request from an authorized representative of Local 412, Bakery, Confectionery, and Tobacco Workers (BCTW) Union, an evaluation was made of possible health hazards at the Keebler Company (SIC-2052), Atlanta, Georgia. Of specific concern were exposure to raw materials and chemicals in the Mixing Department, the possible use of asbestos (1332214) in insulation in an area used for proofing, exposure to airborne contaminants or carcinogens through inhalation or direct handling of the product, and the potential for release of contaminants or carcinogens from the heating of plastic film on overwrap or shrinkwrap machines and from heating hot melt adhesives. No asbestos fibers were detected in either settled dusts or airborne dusts in the areas monitored. Trace levels of formaldehyde (50000) and acetaldehyde (75070) were detected in one of the heated hot melt adhesives. Trace amounts of toluene (108883), limonene (138863), and a mixture of other volatile organics including various 9 to 12 carbon hydrocarbons, as well as small amounts of other organic compounds were noted on the analysis of shrink wrap emissions. All potential exposures were well below the recommended safety levels. Keebler eliminated the one oven which had asbestos containing insulation. The authors conclude that no worker exposures to potential carcinogens existed, and other potential exposures were below evaluation criteria. There was no evidence of an increased incidence of lung cancer or cancer in general among the employees.
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(1989) Native Textiles, Glenn Falls, New York. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a representative of the Communications Workers of America, Local 1139, a study was made of possible hazardous working conditions at Native Textiles (SIC-2241), Glenn Falls, New York. The company manufactured lace, tricot, and specialty fabrics and employed about 400 people. Possible exposure to a melamine/formaldehyde resin existed when the lace was passed through this mixture to provide durability and body. Following accelerated polymerization, the lace was divided... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a representative of the Communications Workers of America, Local 1139, a study was made of possible hazardous working conditions at Native Textiles (SIC-2241), Glenn Falls, New York. The company manufactured lace, tricot, and specialty fabrics and employed about 400 people. Possible exposure to a melamine/formaldehyde resin existed when the lace was passed through this mixture to provide durability and body. Following accelerated polymerization, the lace was divided into individual strands by a thread drawing machine. During the processing by this machine a fine dust containing the polymerized resin was generated. This dust covered the arms and clothing of the workers. Ten of 17 air samples tested for formaldehyde (50000) were above 0.1 part per million (ppm) levels and the total and respirable dust levels were between 0.1 and 0.2mg/m3. In the finishing area low levels of 1,1,1- trichloroethane (71556) and traces of toluene (108883), xylene (1330207), and various alkyl substituted benzenes were measured. Workers suffered irritation of the upper respiratory tract, skin and eyes. The author concludes that a hazard existed from exposure to dust from thread drawing and spooling of resin coated lace; formaldehyde levels above 0.1ppm may have increase the irritative effects of dust exposures. The author recommends improvement in the ventilation system, use of a resin system which contains less formaldehyde, use of respirators for workers operating the thread drawing and spooling machines, issuance of protective clothing, and the option of reassignment for particularly sensitive employees.
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(1989) Office of Disability Determination, The Howard Building, Tampa, Florida. (Click for full summary) In response to a request from the Area Manager of the Office of Disability Determination, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at the Howard Building, Tampa, Florida. Particular concern was voiced with regard to eye irritation, headaches, and fatigue with a possible connection to water leakage into the offices and pigeon nesting areas above suspended ceilings. Studies indicated no carbon-monoxide, nitrogen-dioxide, or formaldehyde concentration in the building. Carbon-... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Area Manager of the Office of Disability Determination, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at the Howard Building, Tampa, Florida. Particular concern was voiced with regard to eye irritation, headaches, and fatigue with a possible connection to water leakage into the offices and pigeon nesting areas above suspended ceilings. Studies indicated no carbon-monoxide, nitrogen-dioxide, or formaldehyde concentration in the building. Carbon-dioxide (124389) levels of 1000 parts per million or above were recorded which were indicative of inadequate air exchange between a building and the outdoors. An area was found along the south wall of the building with gross contamination by bird droppings and other debris such as egg shells, decayed birds, insects, straw and other nest materials. Rainwater leakage above the areas where the birds had nested washed the excrement and debris down over the office walls. As much as 2 inches of bird droppings were found on some suspended tiles. The crawl space above the first floor was observed to have health and safety hazards including poor maintenance, poor lighting, dangling electrical wires, and only a single small portal for entry. No evidence was found that the employees had symptoms associated with histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, or psittacosis, nor hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Some of the symptoms were likely allergic rhinitis while others may have resulted from a lack of fresh outdoor air. The authors recommend that specific measures be taken to safely remove the bird debris, prevent additional bird inhabitation, improve drainage of condensate water, and provide an outdoor air supply system.
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Contact us to obtain a copy of report HETA-88-311-0000.
(1989) Ormet Corporation, Hannibal, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from Local 5724, United Steelworkers of America, an evaluation was made of possible long term exposure to potroom gases, fumes, and dusts at Ormet Corporation (SIC-3334), Hannibal, Ohio. The facility was a producer of primary aluminum, had six potrooms, each composed of two buildings housing 86 pots, for a total of 1032 pots. Excessive exposures to fluorides were determined among crane operators, particularly among cranemen involved with the placement of new carbon anode... (Click to show more)In response to a request from Local 5724, United Steelworkers of America, an evaluation was made of possible long term exposure to potroom gases, fumes, and dusts at Ormet Corporation (SIC-3334), Hannibal, Ohio. The facility was a producer of primary aluminum, had six potrooms, each composed of two buildings housing 86 pots, for a total of 1032 pots. Excessive exposures to fluorides were determined among crane operators, particularly among cranemen involved with the placement of new carbon anodes in the pots. Personal samples for fluoride obtained from these men ranged from 0.95 to 3.61mg/m3. Sixteen percent of workers completing a medical questionnaire reported symptoms suggestive of asthma; in 13 of these cases the asthma was temporally related to work and symptoms worsened in or near the potroom. Neurologic effects including memory impairment, cognitive dysfunction, anxiety, and neurasthenic symptoms were no more prevalent among current potroom workers than among other participants in the medical review. However, each was more prevalent among workers who had ever worked in the potroom. The authors conclude that there was a potential for excess exposures to fluorides among potroom crane operators. There was no convincing evidence of an association between exposure to aluminum (7429905) and neurologic effects. The authors recommend upgrading engineering controls to reduce the exposure of the crane operator to fluorides, exhausting the crucible to the outside, establishing good worker hygiene and work practices, maintaining pot access floors and shields, monitoring of airborne gases, and using respirators.
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(1989) Reade Manufacturing Company, Lakehurst, New Jersey. (Click to open report) In response to a request from employees at the Reade Manufacturing Company (SIC-1061), Lakehurst, New Jersey, a site visit was made to determine whether hazardous working conditions existed at this facility. The workers expressed concern over exposures to materials used as part of, or in the course of, manufacturing magnesium (7439954) chips, granules, and powders, and magnesium/aluminum alloy powders. Environmental sampling revealed magnesium dust in concentrations of 0.01 to 17.2mg/m3 in the p... (Click to show more)In response to a request from employees at the Reade Manufacturing Company (SIC-1061), Lakehurst, New Jersey, a site visit was made to determine whether hazardous working conditions existed at this facility. The workers expressed concern over exposures to materials used as part of, or in the course of, manufacturing magnesium (7439954) chips, granules, and powders, and magnesium/aluminum alloy powders. Environmental sampling revealed magnesium dust in concentrations of 0.01 to 17.2mg/m3 in the personal breathing zone samples. Aluminum (7429905) dust exposures ranged from nondetectable to 1.6mg/m3. Analysis of fluorspar and talc (14807966) bulk samples indicated that magnesium and aluminum were the primary metal contaminants with trace amounts of other metals. No asbestos or crystalline silica was detected. A medical evaluation involving 37 of the 66 production and maintenance workers indicated that at least half had experienced nasal symptoms with about one fifth reporting skin rash. All blood magnesium levels were within normal limits. None of the four with an obstructive pattern of pulmonary function had any significantly increased obstruction over the course of the workday. Of 34 chest x-rays reviewed, three demonstrated pleural thickening. The authors conclude that no safety hazards or chemical exposures were identified which would represent a health hazard. The authors recommend specific measures concerning engineering controls and the use of personal protective equipment.
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(1989) Seagull Industries, West Palm Beach, Florida. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the management of Seagull Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (SIC-8331), West Palm Beach, Florida an evaluation was made of exposure to silica (14808607) dust and lead (7439921) paints in the ceramics area and to solvents in the assembly building. Seagull Industries was a private, nonprofit corporation providing job training and employment, primarily for the mentally retarded. Airborne lead concentrations at the facility were extremely low, ranging from 0.9 to 1.8 mi... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the management of Seagull Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (SIC-8331), West Palm Beach, Florida an evaluation was made of exposure to silica (14808607) dust and lead (7439921) paints in the ceramics area and to solvents in the assembly building. Seagull Industries was a private, nonprofit corporation providing job training and employment, primarily for the mentally retarded. Airborne lead concentrations at the facility were extremely low, ranging from 0.9 to 1.8 micrograms per cubic meter of air (microg/m3). However, the settled dust on the painters' table tops was 10 percent lead, which posed some concern for accidental ingestion. Silica exposures in the ceramics polishing area were more significant with measurements of 48 and 64microg/m3 for the 6 hour work period. If these exposures were adjusted for an 8 hour time weighted average, the levels would be equivalent to 36 and 48microg/m3 which was slightly less than the NIOSH recommended limits. Solvent vapor concentrations were minimal during the cleaning of the printing press, due to the fact that there was sufficient natural ventilation. The author concludes that silica dust levels were significant, and lead dust on table tops may present an ingestion hazard. The author recommends measures to control silica and lead exposures and to reduce fire hazards associated with the use of flammable solvents.
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(1989) Technical Assistance to the Jamaican Ministry of Health, Kingston, Jamaica. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Principal Medical Officer of the Epidemiology Unit in the Jamaican Ministry of Health, an investigation was made of possible hazardous working conditions existing in numerous backyard battery repair shops (BBRS) located in Kingston. Nineteen of 22 children in Kingston hospitalized due to lead (7439921) poisoning lived at or near a BBRS. The geometric mean of the air lead concentrations in the BBRSs sampled was 21 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3). The highest w... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Principal Medical Officer of the Epidemiology Unit in the Jamaican Ministry of Health, an investigation was made of possible hazardous working conditions existing in numerous backyard battery repair shops (BBRS) located in Kingston. Nineteen of 22 children in Kingston hospitalized due to lead (7439921) poisoning lived at or near a BBRS. The geometric mean of the air lead concentrations in the BBRSs sampled was 21 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3). The highest workplace concentration was 66microg/m3 which exceeded the OSHA permissible exposure limit of 50microg/m3. Soil lead levels were significantly higher at households located at BBRS premises, compared with comparison households. The geometric mean soil lead levels were very high, being 58,884 parts per million, with a range of 16,000 to 400,000ppm. Dust lead levels were higher at exposed households than at comparison households, with 73 percent exceeding 1500 micrograms of lead/square meter of floor (microg/m2), ranging from 190 to 53140microg/m2. In many cases the dust lead content was associated with the number of batteries repaired at the site. Lead was not present in the drinking water samples collected. Blood lead levels were strongly associated with the soil and dust lead levels. The authors conclude that BBRS create a high lead poisoning risk for workers and nearby residents. The authors recommend that establishment of such shops at residential premises should be discouraged. Specific measures for reducing lead exposures are provided.
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