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HHE Search Results
1059 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
(1986) Defense Industrial Supply Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) Management of the Defense Industrial Supply Center (SIC-9451), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania requested an evaluation of possible excess cancer deaths and respiratory problems encountered among employees. Measurements were taken for carbon-dioxide (124389), carbon-monoxide (630080), temperature, relative humidity, organic vapors, and airborne dust. Sample materials were taken of insulation, solvent cleaners, and carbonless paper used at the facility. The area of work in which excess cancer related d... (Click to show more)Management of the Defense Industrial Supply Center (SIC-9451), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania requested an evaluation of possible excess cancer deaths and respiratory problems encountered among employees. Measurements were taken for carbon-dioxide (124389), carbon-monoxide (630080), temperature, relative humidity, organic vapors, and airborne dust. Sample materials were taken of insulation, solvent cleaners, and carbonless paper used at the facility. The area of work in which excess cancer related deaths may have occurred involved primarily computer work, central communications and data processing operations. Chemical exposure occurring in the facility included solvent tape drive cleaner in the computer tape library, inks used by printers, and an ammonia based developer fixer used in the microfiche area. The level of outside air being introduced into the building was occasionally in the low range where headaches, and complaints of respiratory and mucous membrane problems could develop, even though levels of carbon- monoxide and carbon-dioxide were within safe limits. Due to limited space available, the building was overcrowded. The authors conclude that there were potential hazards from inadequate ventilation, high temperatures and low humidity. Information was inadequate to determine if the incidence of cancer at this facility was higher than in the general population. The authors recommend improvements in ventilation, and the use of impermeable gloves when using solvents.
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(1986) Denver Water Department, Denver, Colorado. (Click to open report) Environmental surveys conducted on February 4 and July 16, 1985 at the Denver Water Department (SIC-4941), Denver, Colorado, included collection of breathing zone and general area samples for asbestos (1332214) and personal sampling for noise exposure. The Denver Water Department had requested an evaluation of potential health hazards to employees during cutting of cement pipes thought to contain asbestos. Without a water suppression system in use, personal samples for asbestos ranged from 2.27 ... (Click to show more)Environmental surveys conducted on February 4 and July 16, 1985 at the Denver Water Department (SIC-4941), Denver, Colorado, included collection of breathing zone and general area samples for asbestos (1332214) and personal sampling for noise exposure. The Denver Water Department had requested an evaluation of potential health hazards to employees during cutting of cement pipes thought to contain asbestos. Without a water suppression system in use, personal samples for asbestos ranged from 2.27 to 3.54 fibers per cubic centimeter (f/cc); with suppression system in use, samples ranged from 0.43 to 0.76f/cc. Without a suppression system, area samples within 10 to 15 feet of the cutting operation ranged from 1.90 to 2.18f/cc; with suppression, results ranged from 0.17 to and the OSHA Standard is 2.0f/cc. All samples exceeded the NIOSH criteria. Personal noise level measurements ranged from 95 to 109 decibels A (dBA); half of the samples exceeded the NIOSH short term exposure criteria of 100dBA for 1 hour exposure periods. The author concluded that a health hazard from asbestos exposures exists to workers involved in the cutting operation; workers in the immediate cutting area and downwind are also at risk. A health hazard from exposures to noise was considered to exist for the employee who performs pipe cutting. Recommendations are made to reduce or eliminate the exposures.
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(1986) Exxon Corporation, Bayway Refinery and Chemical Plant, Linden, New Jersey. (Click to open report) A representative of Teamsters Local 877 requested an evaluation of the hazards of asbestos (1332214) exposure at the Exxon Bayway Refinery and Chemical Plant (SIC-2011), Bayway, New Jersey. Approximately 2,100 workers were employed at the facility. Asbestos was extensively used for insulation at this facility before 1972. Chest x-rays of retired and current workers with at least 20 years employment at the facility were reviewed and the relationship of work history to asbestos related x-ray abnor... (Click to show more)A representative of Teamsters Local 877 requested an evaluation of the hazards of asbestos (1332214) exposure at the Exxon Bayway Refinery and Chemical Plant (SIC-2011), Bayway, New Jersey. Approximately 2,100 workers were employed at the facility. Asbestos was extensively used for insulation at this facility before 1972. Chest x-rays of retired and current workers with at least 20 years employment at the facility were reviewed and the relationship of work history to asbestos related x-ray abnormalities was investigated. Oil refinery and petrochemical workers examined showed several abnormalities on chest x-rays. Pleural abnormalities were more prevalent than parenchymal ones. Abnormal chest x-rays were found among workers from various job categories, suggesting that exposures were dispersed and widespread. There was a general relationship between length of employment and the appearance of x- ray abnormalities. The authors conclude that there is a possibility of increased risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma in exposed workers. The higher prevalence of pleural to parenchymal abnormalities suggests that asbestosis is not as significant a concern. The authors recommend that a standardized mortality ratio study be conducted. Recommendations are also made concerning workplace controls and practices, use of personal protective equipment, handling and storage of asbestos, and medical examinations before employment.
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(1986) FMC Corporation, Pocatello, Idaho. (Click to open report) Following a request from the International Association of Machinists, Lodge 1933, breathing zone air samples were evaluated and 187 of 493 workers were interviewed concerning health problems at the FMC Corporation (SIC-2819), Pocatello, Idaho. Carbon- monoxide (630080) concentrations ranged from 1 to 9.5 parts per million (ppm). Respirable quartz (14808607) concentrations ranged from 0.28 to 5.71 milligrams/cubic meter (mg/m3). Seven of nine total quartz dust samples exceeded the criterion of 3.... (Click to show more)Following a request from the International Association of Machinists, Lodge 1933, breathing zone air samples were evaluated and 187 of 493 workers were interviewed concerning health problems at the FMC Corporation (SIC-2819), Pocatello, Idaho. Carbon- monoxide (630080) concentrations ranged from 1 to 9.5 parts per million (ppm). Respirable quartz (14808607) concentrations ranged from 0.28 to 5.71 milligrams/cubic meter (mg/m3). Seven of nine total quartz dust samples exceeded the criterion of 3.75mg/m3. Phosphorus (7723140) concentrations ranged from less than 0.023 to occurred in the furnace area and ranged from 0.01ppm to 1.24ppm. Phosphine (7803512) concentrations were less than 0.1ppm. Of workers interviewed, 47.6 percent described possibly work related health problems, including respiratory tract problems, skin irritation, and back problems; 34 percent reported minor phosphorus burns. Dental problems correlated with work in the phosphorus department. The authors conclude that workers are potentially exposed to excessive airborne concentrations of respirable and total quartz dust and sulfur-dioxide. The potential exists for harmful exposures to phosphorus, phosphine, hot surfaces and liquids, but medical, dental and environmental programs appear to address these problems. Respiratory protection is recommended for jobs involving potential exposures.
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(1986) Ford Motor Company, Utica, Michigan. (Click to open report) Exposure to toluene-diisocyanate (TDI) (584849) at the Utica Trim Facility (SIC-3714, SIC-3523), Utica, Michigan was evaluated following a request by the UAW. TDI was used in the manufacture of polyurethane automotive seat cushions, backs, and head rests. A total of 261 workers from this facility and a comparison group of 207 workers from a tractor factory were surveyed. There had been six spills of TDI, but concentrations of TDI did not exceed the NIOSH ceiling of 20 parts per billion (ppb). Pa... (Click to show more)Exposure to toluene-diisocyanate (TDI) (584849) at the Utica Trim Facility (SIC-3714, SIC-3523), Utica, Michigan was evaluated following a request by the UAW. TDI was used in the manufacture of polyurethane automotive seat cushions, backs, and head rests. A total of 261 workers from this facility and a comparison group of 207 workers from a tractor factory were surveyed. There had been six spills of TDI, but concentrations of TDI did not exceed the NIOSH ceiling of 20 parts per billion (ppb). Paper tape records for 42 pouring stations over the period from 1976 to 1981 indicated that at two stations the ceiling was exceeded and at eight the concentrations were at or above the 8 hour NIOSH recommended time weighted average of 5ppb. No excessive exposures to TDI were found on the foam line processes with the exception of the pouring station enclosures. Pulmonary function tests did not reveal any apparent acute adverse effects from TDI exposure. There were cases of possible slight acute irritation symptoms present among the employees. Prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms was higher among workers at the Utica facility, particularly among those who had previously experienced symptoms following a TDI spill. The authors conclude that there had been little effect of TDI exposure on lung volume or flow rates, some increase in eye irritation, and some increase in chronic respiratory symptoms. The authors recommend enforcement of the use of respirator equipment at the pouring stations. Better control of dust in the trimming and repair areas will also serve to reduce the irritation to the eye and respiratory system.
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(1986) Friction Division Products, Trenton, New Jersey. (Click to open report) A request was made by the International Chemical Workers Union on behalf of employees at Friction Division Products (SIC-3292) to examine possible exposure to asbestos (1332214). Approximately 120 employees were engaged in the manufacture of auto and truck brake shoes at the facility. Asbestos was used as a raw material for about 90 percent of the shoes made. At the time of the inspection, working conditions were poor with asbestos exposure excessive in all areas, including drum mix, preform, gr... (Click to show more)A request was made by the International Chemical Workers Union on behalf of employees at Friction Division Products (SIC-3292) to examine possible exposure to asbestos (1332214). Approximately 120 employees were engaged in the manufacture of auto and truck brake shoes at the facility. Asbestos was used as a raw material for about 90 percent of the shoes made. At the time of the inspection, working conditions were poor with asbestos exposure excessive in all areas, including drum mix, preform, grinding, tables and presses. The ventilation system was not properly maintained and measures used to keep the asbestos from becoming airborne were not adequate. Production was allowed to continue even when the debagger was not working. Of 20 workers x-rayed, 2 showed asbestosis. These two had been employed at this facility for over 40 years and had been exposed to asbestos since 1969. One of these two workers also had pleural thickening and pleural plaques, conditions which were also found in three additional workers. Asbestos fibers were present on work clothes, thus indicating the possibility for contamination to occur at the homes of the workers. The authors conclude that a substantial health hazard exists for workers at this facility and that there is a potential hazard for families of workers. The authors recommend specific changes or additions to medical, environmental, personal protective equipment, policy and air monitoring programs at this facility.
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(1986) Granite City Steel, Granite City, Illinois. (Click for full summary) The International Chemical Workers Union requested an evaluation at Granite City Steel (SIC-3312), Granite City, Illinois regarding potential employee exposures to a tar like substance added to incoming coal. Bulk analysis of the material showed benzene/soluble coal tar pitch volatiles and naphthalene (91203), phenanthrene (85018), fluoranthene (206440), pyrene (129000), benz(a)anthracene (56553), chrysene (218019), benzo(e)pyrene (192972), benzo(a)pyrene (50328), and benz(g,h,i)perylene (191242... (Click to show more)The International Chemical Workers Union requested an evaluation at Granite City Steel (SIC-3312), Granite City, Illinois regarding potential employee exposures to a tar like substance added to incoming coal. Bulk analysis of the material showed benzene/soluble coal tar pitch volatiles and naphthalene (91203), phenanthrene (85018), fluoranthene (206440), pyrene (129000), benz(a)anthracene (56553), chrysene (218019), benzo(e)pyrene (192972), benzo(a)pyrene (50328), and benz(g,h,i)perylene (191242). Personal air sampling showed that five of eight samples collected for benzene/solubles had concentrations of 88 to 141 micrograms/cubic meter (mg/m3). The total particulate fraction collected from coal dust in the basement of the pulverizer building contained 1.6 percent quartz (14808607). Respirable coal dust in personal samples ranged from 0.14 to 1.52 mg/m3. Of 15 employees working in the coke oven coal handling and by products areas, approximately two thirds experienced mucous membrane and skin irritation, headaches, shortness of breath, and nausea and about one half complained of cough and phlegm. No cases of skin or respiratory cancer were reported among these workers. The authors recommend that coal tar sludge waste product be disposed of according to EPA regulations. Engineering controls and personal protective equipment should be used to reduce exposure. Employees should be informed of potential hazards and enrolled in a coke plant medical monitoring program. This report was revised in May 1987. The revised report is available here: <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/84-284-1701.pdf"target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/84-284-1701.pdf</a>
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(1986) Great Lakes Carbon, Wilmington, California. (Click to open report) An environmental survey was conducted in February, 1984, at the Great Lakes Carbon Corporation (SIC-2999), Wilmington, California. Local 1-128 of the Oil, Chemical, and Atomic Workers International Union had requested an evaluation of environmental conditions and possible health effects among workers exposed to coke dust. Personal breathing zone (PBZ) concentrations of total airborne dust ranged from 0.1 to 12 milligrams/cubic meter (mg/m3) with a median of 1.6 mg/m3; mass median particle diamet... (Click to show more)An environmental survey was conducted in February, 1984, at the Great Lakes Carbon Corporation (SIC-2999), Wilmington, California. Local 1-128 of the Oil, Chemical, and Atomic Workers International Union had requested an evaluation of environmental conditions and possible health effects among workers exposed to coke dust. Personal breathing zone (PBZ) concentrations of total airborne dust ranged from 0.1 to 12 milligrams/cubic meter (mg/m3) with a median of 1.6 mg/m3; mass median particle diameter was about 8 micrometers. Very high PBZ concentrations of coke dust occurred during a semimonthly cleanup of underground coke pits; levels ranged from 98 to 190mg/m3 with a mean of 140mg/m3. Oil mists were not detected. Exposures to polynuclear aromatic compounds were below the analytical limit of detection among workers for routine jobs. Abnormal pulmonary function tests were found in 12 percent of those tested. Questionnaires were completed by 18 of 25 salaried employees, and 38 of 50 hourly employees. Five cases of chronic bronchitis and seven of chronic cough, 10 and 13 percent respectively, were identified among those interviewed. These findings were more related to cigarette smoking than employment category. Skin problems were reported in 38 percent, due to dusts, oils, heat, sun, or a combination of these. The authors conclude that there were potentially hazardous exposures to high dust levels during semimonthly coke pit cleaning jobs.
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(1986) Grundy Industries, Inc., Joliet, Illinois. (Click to open report) Exposure to asbestos (1332214) while manufacturing an asphalt based roofing compound was investigated at Grundy Industries, Inc., (SIC- 2952) in Joliet, Illinois, in response to a request from the owner and manager. Bags containing asbestos were fed onto a conveyor system and subjected to a fluffing operation to agitate the fibers. After mixing, the fiber was encapsulated and little asbestos dust was generated. Personal breathing samples were collected near the breathing zone of employees likely... (Click to show more)Exposure to asbestos (1332214) while manufacturing an asphalt based roofing compound was investigated at Grundy Industries, Inc., (SIC- 2952) in Joliet, Illinois, in response to a request from the owner and manager. Bags containing asbestos were fed onto a conveyor system and subjected to a fluffing operation to agitate the fibers. After mixing, the fiber was encapsulated and little asbestos dust was generated. Personal breathing samples were collected near the breathing zone of employees likely exposed to airborne asbestos fibers. The asbestos bag opener, the control panel operator, the forklift driver, and a dispensing line worker were monitored. Total fiber counts on the five analyzable samples ranged from 0.08 to 0.37 fibers per cubic centimeter of air. The asbestos bag opener and the forklift operator were exposed to concentrations above the OSHA limit of 0.2 fibers per cubic centimeter. The author recommends that asbestos be replaced by a less toxic substance. Engineering controls such as isolation, enclosure, and ventilation should be used to control exposure to asbestos if a suitable substitute cannot be found. Industrial type vacuum equipment should be installed for cleaning purposes. Respirators should be used during non routine operations.
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(1986) HCFA-Meadows East Building, Baltimore, Maryland. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Health Care Financing Administration (SIC-9441), an investigation was made of complaints of irritation to the eyes, mucosa, skin and respiratory tract among employees in the HCFA Meadows East Building (MEB), Baltimore, Maryland. An additional concern was the incidence of fungal sinusitis and cancer at MEB. Questionnaires were obtained from 406 of 690 current MEB employees. Nearly 60 percent reported discomfort believed to be work related. Windows in the building... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Health Care Financing Administration (SIC-9441), an investigation was made of complaints of irritation to the eyes, mucosa, skin and respiratory tract among employees in the HCFA Meadows East Building (MEB), Baltimore, Maryland. An additional concern was the incidence of fungal sinusitis and cancer at MEB. Questionnaires were obtained from 406 of 690 current MEB employees. Nearly 60 percent reported discomfort believed to be work related. Windows in the building did not open and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system was the primary source of outside air supply. Measured levels of airborne dust, gas and vapor concentration were below permissible exposure limits and exposure guidelines. Only one case of fungal sinusitis was confirmed. Mean airborne fungal concentration was 75 colony forming units per cubic meter. The authors conclude that the symptoms experienced resulted from substandard ventilation in conjunction with low level indoor pollutants such as tobacco smoke. Neither an increased prevalence of cancer nor a building related cancer risk appeared to exist. The authors recommendations include readjustment of the ventilation system to operate according to design specifications, routine maintenance and surveillance of the ventilation system, adoption and enforcement of a no smoking policy, institution of a more formal medical surveillance system, and rolling/changing of roll filters in the ventilation system when the system is turned off.
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