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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
(1984) Pacific Gas and Electric Company, San Francisco, California. (Click to open report) Worker exposures to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) during electrical repair field operations (SIC-4911) in San Francisco, California were surveyed from September, 1980 to February, 1982. The evaluation was requested by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company, San Francisco, on behalf of about 5000 service personnel involved in the inspection and maintenance of electrical devices. Personal and area air samples, bulk dust samples, and skin and work surface wipe samples were collected for PCB analysi... (Click to show more)Worker exposures to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) during electrical repair field operations (SIC-4911) in San Francisco, California were surveyed from September, 1980 to February, 1982. The evaluation was requested by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company, San Francisco, on behalf of about 5000 service personnel involved in the inspection and maintenance of electrical devices. Personal and area air samples, bulk dust samples, and skin and work surface wipe samples were collected for PCB analysis. Fifteen workers completed medical questionnaires and gave blood samples for serum PCB determination. The only significant exposures to PCB occurred during depot/receiving yard activities where PCB vapor or dust concentrations reached 200,000 micrograms. All personal, area and wipe samples were below the 0.05 microgram limit of detection. Eleven workers had serum PCB values greater than 30 parts per billion. No chloracne, liver abnormalities, or neurological disorders were found. The authors conclude that a PCB hazard may exist for depot/receiving yard workers. They recommend the use of respiratory protection, periodic exposure monitoring, preplacement medical evaluations and periodic examinations, improved workplace sanitation, worker education and training about the handling of PCBs and attention to the potentials for and problems associated with exposures to PCB contaminants.
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(1984) Pennsylvania Institute of Taxidermy, Inc., Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. (Click for full summary) Breathing zone samples were analyzed for proprietary solvents and styrene (100425) at the Pennsylvania Institute of Taxidermy, Incorporated (SIC-8249), Edensburg, Pennsylvania in June, 1984. Bulk samples were analyzed for asbestos (1332214) and arsenic (7440382). The survey was requested by the President of the Institute to evaluate exposure of the students and instructors to paint solvents and fibrous glass resins. The ventilation system was inspected and work practices were observed. All perso... (Click to show more)Breathing zone samples were analyzed for proprietary solvents and styrene (100425) at the Pennsylvania Institute of Taxidermy, Incorporated (SIC-8249), Edensburg, Pennsylvania in June, 1984. Bulk samples were analyzed for asbestos (1332214) and arsenic (7440382). The survey was requested by the President of the Institute to evaluate exposure of the students and instructors to paint solvents and fibrous glass resins. The ventilation system was inspected and work practices were observed. All personal air samples were below the evaluation criteria. Asbestos was not found in any bulk samples, but a small amount of arsenic, 20 parts per million, was found in a dry preservative. The spray paint booths had adequate airflows when exterior doors and windows were kept open. Improper work practices such as eating and drinking in the laboratory, not always directing the spray paint into booths, and getting solvents on hands were observed. The authors conclude that students and instructors at the Institute are not being overexposed to paint solvents and styrene. They recommend improving work practices, not eating, drinking, or smoking in work areas, and using protective gloves, aprons, and goggles.
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Contact us to obtain a copy of report HETA-84-322-1502.
(1984) Perry Nuclear Power Plant, Perry, Ohio. (Click to open report) Breathing zone samples were analyzed for iron (7439896), zinc (7440666), lead (7439921), nickel (7440020), and chromium (7440473) fumes, quartz (14808607), cristobalite (14464461), and respirable particulates during construction of the Perry Nuclear Power facility, Perry, Ohio in August, 1984. The survey was requested by Local 210 of the Pipefitters Union to evaluate exposure of airborne contaminants to construction workers (SIC-1541) at the facility. Quartz exposures ranged from below 24 to 67 ... (Click to show more)Breathing zone samples were analyzed for iron (7439896), zinc (7440666), lead (7439921), nickel (7440020), and chromium (7440473) fumes, quartz (14808607), cristobalite (14464461), and respirable particulates during construction of the Perry Nuclear Power facility, Perry, Ohio in August, 1984. The survey was requested by Local 210 of the Pipefitters Union to evaluate exposure of airborne contaminants to construction workers (SIC-1541) at the facility. Quartz exposures ranged from below 24 to 67 micrograms per cubic meter (microg/m3). The NIOSH recommended standard for quartz is 50microg/m3. Cristobalite concentrations were below the analytical limit of detection. All metal fume and respirable particulates were well below the relevant standards. The author notes that NIOSH conducted two previous surveys at the site and the concentrations of all contaminants have decreased since work has progressed at the facility. The quartz overexposure is due to residual construction dust. Each contractor should assume responsibility for the health and safety of his employees. Break areas should be vacuumed daily. Good housekeeping practices should be maintained in all areas to prevent exposure to quartz dust.
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(1984) Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Elizabeth Industrial Park Site, Elizabeth, New Jersey. (Click for full summary) Worker exposures to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), organic vapors, and heavy metals during proposed construction activities were examined at the Elizabeth Industrial Park Site (SIC-1623) in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The area was previously used as a PCB contaminated landfill. The survey was conducted between September, 13 and October 6, 1983. The evaluation was requested by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey on behalf of an unspecified number of construction workers. Personal and area ... (Click to show more)Worker exposures to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), organic vapors, and heavy metals during proposed construction activities were examined at the Elizabeth Industrial Park Site (SIC-1623) in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The area was previously used as a PCB contaminated landfill. The survey was conducted between September, 13 and October 6, 1983. The evaluation was requested by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey on behalf of an unspecified number of construction workers. Personal and area air samples, along with wipe samples from work boots, were collected during excavation and piping of a test trench in the most contaminated part of the site. No PCBs were detected in any of the samples, using a detection limit of 0.05 micrograms per sample. Exposures to benzene (71432), toluene (108883), and xylene (1330207) were well below the appropriate OSHA standards, and no heavy metals were found in the air samples. More than 55 percent of the airborne dust particles were of respirable size, between 1 and 10 microns. The authors conclude that construction workers at this site would not be exposed to PCBs or other hazardous chemicals under conditions similar to those used in this test. They recommend the use of protective boots and gloves, and personal air sampling for PCBs and volatile organics for workers employed in relatively non ventilated areas. Respiratory protection is not necessary for workers employed in an open, well ventilated areas.
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Contact us to obtain a copy of report HETA-82-284-1456.
(1984) Roper Eastern Products, Baltimore, Maryland. (Click to open report) Area and breathing zone samples were analyzed for ammonia (7664417), organic solvents, acid and base solutions, and carbon-monoxide (630080) at Roper Eastern Products (SIC-3317), Baltimore, Maryland, in October and November 1982. The survey was requested by Local 75- A of the United Furniture Workers of America due to concern of reports of symptoms such as skin rash, hair loss, dizziness, and nausea among the employees. Thirty one production workers were given medical questionnaires and intervie... (Click to show more)Area and breathing zone samples were analyzed for ammonia (7664417), organic solvents, acid and base solutions, and carbon-monoxide (630080) at Roper Eastern Products (SIC-3317), Baltimore, Maryland, in October and November 1982. The survey was requested by Local 75- A of the United Furniture Workers of America due to concern of reports of symptoms such as skin rash, hair loss, dizziness, and nausea among the employees. Thirty one production workers were given medical questionnaires and interviewed. Ammonia was not detected. All organic solvents and acid and base solution concentrations were below the relevant standards. Carbon-monoxide concentrations in the cardboard box assembly and packing line were 25 to 50 parts per million (ppm). The OSHA standard for carbon- monoxide is 50ppm. Seventeen workers reported at least four of seven possible respiratory symptoms, and three of six possible, neurologic symptoms. The respiratory symptoms were significantly associated with dust and fume exposure. The authors conclude that workers may be overexposed to carbon-monoxide. The reported symptoms are consistent with the known effects of substances used in processes in the facility. Recommendations include curtailing the use of internal combustion engines in the box assembly and packing line and replacement of dilution ventilation by fresh air recirculating systems.
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(1984) Rubbermaid Incorporated, Wooster, Ohio. (Click to open report) Breathing zone samples were analyzed for cadmium (7440439), lead (7439921), total chromium (7440473), and respirable dust at Rubbermaid, Incorporated (SIC-3079), Wooster, Ohio in June, 1984. The survey was requested by the company management to evaluate cadmium exposures for workers handling pigments in the injection molding department. The study was a followup to an earlier NIOSH survey, at which time the company had started reformulating pigments to reduce their cadmium content. Lead and total... (Click to show more)Breathing zone samples were analyzed for cadmium (7440439), lead (7439921), total chromium (7440473), and respirable dust at Rubbermaid, Incorporated (SIC-3079), Wooster, Ohio in June, 1984. The survey was requested by the company management to evaluate cadmium exposures for workers handling pigments in the injection molding department. The study was a followup to an earlier NIOSH survey, at which time the company had started reformulating pigments to reduce their cadmium content. Lead and total chromium concentrations were below the limits of detection. Cadmium concentrations ranged from below the detection limit to 0.02 milligram per cubic meter (mg/m3). The NIOSH recommended standard for cadmium is 0.04mg/m3. Respirable dust concentrations were less than 0.11mg/m3. The OSHA standard for respirable dust is 5mg/m3. The author concludes that a health hazard due to cadmium exposure in the injection department does not exist. He recommends keeping cadmium containing pigments in closed containers and prohibiting storage, handling, and consumption of food in cadmium work areas.
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(1984) Seamless Hospital Products Company, Fayette, Alabama. (Click to open report) Worker exposures to solvents, plastic fumes and dust, and ethylene- oxide (75218) (EO), and consequent risks of cancer and miscarriages, were surveyed on November 9 and 10, 1983 at the Seamless Hospital Products Company plastics facility (SIC-5086) in Fayette, Alabama. The evaluation was requested by the United Rubber Workers International Union on behalf of 371 female production workers. Personal and area air samples were collected for total and respirable dust, nitrosamines, and EO. Available ... (Click to show more)Worker exposures to solvents, plastic fumes and dust, and ethylene- oxide (75218) (EO), and consequent risks of cancer and miscarriages, were surveyed on November 9 and 10, 1983 at the Seamless Hospital Products Company plastics facility (SIC-5086) in Fayette, Alabama. The evaluation was requested by the United Rubber Workers International Union on behalf of 371 female production workers. Personal and area air samples were collected for total and respirable dust, nitrosamines, and EO. Available death certificates were reviewed, workers were questioned about possible health problems, and female employees completed a pregnancy questionnaire. Total and respirable dust concentrations were well below the respective OSHA limits of 15 and 5 milligrams per cubic meter. Measurable concentrations of benzene (71432) and EO were found. Both chemicals are suspected carcinogens and NIOSH recommends that exposures be kept as low as possible. Nitrosamines were not detected. Combined solvent vapor exposures did not exceed the threshold limit value index of 1. No pattern of work related health problems was reported by the workers, and incidences of cancer and miscarriages were not increased. The authors conclude that no increased risk of cancer or miscarriages due to work exposures exists at this company. They recommend increased ventilation, improved solvent dispensers, and further reduction of EO exposures.
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(1984) Siemens Components, Incorporated, Broomfield, Colorado. (Click to open report) Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for 1,1,1- trichloroethane (71556), isopropanol (67630), methanol (67561), total particulates, and aluminum-oxide (1344281) at Siemens Components, Incorporated (SIC-3674), Broomfield, Colorado in June and July, 1983. Noise and radiofrequency (RF) radiation exposures were also measured. The survey was requested by management to evaluate 54 workers who were accidentally exposed to solvent vapors in April, 1983. The exposed workers and 36 compa... (Click to show more)Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for 1,1,1- trichloroethane (71556), isopropanol (67630), methanol (67561), total particulates, and aluminum-oxide (1344281) at Siemens Components, Incorporated (SIC-3674), Broomfield, Colorado in June and July, 1983. Noise and radiofrequency (RF) radiation exposures were also measured. The survey was requested by management to evaluate 54 workers who were accidentally exposed to solvent vapors in April, 1983. The exposed workers and 36 comparisons were interviewed and given pulmonary function tests. Solvent, particulate, and aluminum-oxide concentrations were below all relevant standards. No exposure to RF radiation was detected. Two of 5 workers were exposed to noise levels of 85 decibels (dB). The OSHA and NIOSH standards for noise exposure are 90 and 85dB, respectively. The pulmonary function tests showed no significant correlation with work exposure. Seventeen of the subjects had work related health complaints. Twelve of these were attributed to solvent or dust exposures. Other complaints included headache, nausea, and numbness. The authors conclude that a potential health hazard exists due to noise exposure. They recommend periodic hearing tests for those overexposed to noise and periodic blood tests for workers exposed to solvents.
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(1984) Southwest Power Station, City Utilities, Springfield, Missouri. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Safety Department of City Utilities to evaluate employee exposures to coal and other dusts and fumes at the Southwest Power Facility (SIC-4911), Springfield, Missouri a visit was made to this site. All personal coal dust, fly ash, crystalline silica (14808607), nitrogen-dioxide (10102440), nitric-oxide (10102439), and sulfuric-acid (7664939) samples were below the lowest current criterion level. Four of eight personal sulfur-dioxide (7446095) samples exceeded th... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Safety Department of City Utilities to evaluate employee exposures to coal and other dusts and fumes at the Southwest Power Facility (SIC-4911), Springfield, Missouri a visit was made to this site. All personal coal dust, fly ash, crystalline silica (14808607), nitrogen-dioxide (10102440), nitric-oxide (10102439), and sulfuric-acid (7664939) samples were below the lowest current criterion level. Four of eight personal sulfur-dioxide (7446095) samples exceeded the NIOSH recommended criterion of 1.3mg/m3). Medical evaluation resulted in the identification of three workers with chronic bronchitis each of whom smoked cigarettes, eight workers with pulmonary function test abnormalities indicating obstructive airways disease, and two workers with features of restrictive lung disease. One chest X-ray was consistent with pneumoconiosis. The authors conclude that a health hazard existed for employees exposed to sulfur-dioxide and noise. A potential hazard also existed for employee exposure to heat stress in certain locations in the facility. The authors recommend improvements in the respiratory protection program, use of personal protective equipment, and initiation of an employee training program and environmental monitoring by management.
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(1984) Stanley Aviation Corporation, Denver, Colorado. (Click to open report) Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for lead (7439921), chromium (7440473), and grinding dust at Stanley Aviation Corporation (SIC-3471), Denver, Colorado, in May, 1984. Eight hour time weighted average (TWA) sound level measurements were also made. The evaluation was requested by the company management to evaluate occupational exposures to noise, grinding dust, and lead. An unspecified number of employees were interviewed. All air samples taken for lead, chromium, and dust an... (Click to show more)Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for lead (7439921), chromium (7440473), and grinding dust at Stanley Aviation Corporation (SIC-3471), Denver, Colorado, in May, 1984. Eight hour time weighted average (TWA) sound level measurements were also made. The evaluation was requested by the company management to evaluate occupational exposures to noise, grinding dust, and lead. An unspecified number of employees were interviewed. All air samples taken for lead, chromium, and dust analysis were below the relevant standards. TWA noise level values were 85 to 93.6 A-weighted decibels (dBA). The OSHA standard for 8 hour TWA noise exposure is 90dBA. The employees did not indicate any health problems. All employees were wearing adequate hearing protective devices and were given annual audiometric examinations. The author concludes that a health hazard due to excessive noise exists at the facility. He recommends that workers remove themselves from the vicinity of the milling and grinding machines when they are not operating them. A variety of hearing protective devices, including ear muffs and plugs, should be provided so that the workers will be more inclined to wear them.
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