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HHE Search Results
1062 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
(1983) Artworkspace, New York, New York. (Click to open report) A health hazard survey of Artworkspace (SIC-8999), New York, New York, was conducted in October, 1982, and January and February, 1983. The evaluation was requested by a representative of the artists because of concern over potential hazards from art supplies in use. Advice on the proper means of disposal of any hazardous materials was also requested. Area sampling was done for linalyl- acetate (115957), a major oil paint ingredient. Some of the artists complained about the odor of the paint. Twe... (Click to show more)A health hazard survey of Artworkspace (SIC-8999), New York, New York, was conducted in October, 1982, and January and February, 1983. The evaluation was requested by a representative of the artists because of concern over potential hazards from art supplies in use. Advice on the proper means of disposal of any hazardous materials was also requested. Area sampling was done for linalyl- acetate (115957), a major oil paint ingredient. Some of the artists complained about the odor of the paint. Twelve persons were interviewed. Linalyl-acetate samples were not analyzed since the artist using it had left the establishment. A slight dermatitis was attributed to dryness. The authors conclude that exposure to excessive concentrations of hazardous materials is not likely. Recommendations include the use of protective creams and gloves, proper storage of volatile solvents, and maintaining ready access to the rear fire door.
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(1983) Baltimore County Police Department, Towson, Maryland. (Click to open report) An examination of employee health records was conducted in areas of the Baltimore County Police Department Crime Laboratory (SIC-9221) in Baltimore, Maryland in September and November of 1980. The request was received from a representative of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene on behalf of about seven employees of the crime laboratory. There were seven cancer related deaths among crime laboratory personnel between 1968 to 1981 (age range from 26 to 61 years). Three deaths occur... (Click to show more)An examination of employee health records was conducted in areas of the Baltimore County Police Department Crime Laboratory (SIC-9221) in Baltimore, Maryland in September and November of 1980. The request was received from a representative of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene on behalf of about seven employees of the crime laboratory. There were seven cancer related deaths among crime laboratory personnel between 1968 to 1981 (age range from 26 to 61 years). Three deaths occurred in persons under 40. Personal breathing zone air samples were taken during a fingerprint dusting operation to determine carbon-black (124389) concentrations. Analysis of the fingerprint powders showed that they contained fluoranthene (206440), pyrene (129000), and other polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. Breathing zone samples were well within recommended standards for carbon-black containing polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. The authors conclude that while there is a statistically significant excess of large intestine cancer among police officers in general, there was a nonsignificant excess of respiratory cancers in these crime laboratory workers. There is a potential health hazard in the use of fingerprint powders that contain polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. A laboratory hood or respirator should be used when doing fingerprint dusting.
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(1983) Boeing Vertol Company, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) Worker exposures to epoxy resins, curing agents, and other chemicals were investigated in April, June, July, and September, 1982, and May 1983 at Boeing Vertol Company (SIC-3728) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The evaluation was requested by Local 1069, United Auto Workers, on behalf of about 4600 workers concerned about skin problems and a potential cancer risk. Air samples were collected for dust, methylenedianiline (101779) (MDA), ethylenediamine (107153) (EDA), methyl-isobutyl-ketone (108101... (Click to show more)Worker exposures to epoxy resins, curing agents, and other chemicals were investigated in April, June, July, and September, 1982, and May 1983 at Boeing Vertol Company (SIC-3728) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The evaluation was requested by Local 1069, United Auto Workers, on behalf of about 4600 workers concerned about skin problems and a potential cancer risk. Air samples were collected for dust, methylenedianiline (101779) (MDA), ethylenediamine (107153) (EDA), methyl-isobutyl-ketone (108101) (MBK), toluene (108883), cyclohexanone (108941), and butyl-glycidyl-ether (2426086) (BGE). Medical interviews were conducted with 20 exposed and 20 unexposed workers, and skin examinations were completed. A proportional mortality ratio study for cancer was also completed for workers who died between 1968 and 1980. Concentrations of BGE, dust, MBK, and toluene were below respective OSHA standards of 270, 15, 410, and 750 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). No EDA or cyclohexanone was detected. MDA concentrations ranged up to Hygienists Threshold Limit Value of 0.8mg/m3. Twice as many exposed as unexposed workers reported skin problems such as redness, itching, and cracking. The problems were reportedly exacerbated by hot weather and continued use of epoxy materials. An excess rate of cancer of the bladder was identified for workers exposed to epoxy resins and amine hardeners. The authors conclude that exposures to epoxy resins and amine hardeners present a health risk for skin problems. MDA is a suspected carcinogen and may be responsible for the high incidence of bladder cancer. The authors recommend improved ventilation, use of protective clothing and equipment, and further evaluation of the MDA cancer association.
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(1983) Boeing Vertol Company, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Boeing Vertol Company (SIC-3721), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a study was made of possible hazardous conditions causing symptoms of depression, anxiety and crying episodes, nausea, eye strain and headache reported among workers in the Purchase Parts Stores (PPS) and Packaging areas. High pressure sodium vapor (HPSV) lights were used in these areas. Storage boxes used in the PPS area had been dipped in 99.9 percent pure molten sulfur (7704349) for fire retardatio... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Boeing Vertol Company (SIC-3721), Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a study was made of possible hazardous conditions causing symptoms of depression, anxiety and crying episodes, nausea, eye strain and headache reported among workers in the Purchase Parts Stores (PPS) and Packaging areas. High pressure sodium vapor (HPSV) lights were used in these areas. Storage boxes used in the PPS area had been dipped in 99.9 percent pure molten sulfur (7704349) for fire retardation and stiffening. Air samples were taken from this area and sulfate exposures ranged from 10 to 14 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3) of air. No sulfite concentrations were detectable. Sulfur-dioxide (7446095) concentrations ranged from 7 to 10microg/m3. A study of the work environment in the packaging area indicated that there were certain spots which lacked sufficient illumination. There was also a significant amount of glare from the video display terminal screens which was annoying to workers. Eye fatigue and loss of smell were more prevalent in the PPS than in Packaging; illumination levels were lower and sulfur boxes were used in the PPS, while illumination levels were higher and sulfur boxes were not used in Packaging. The authors conclude that no serious adverse health effects were noted; eye symptoms and minor color vision abnormalities may have been related to HPSV lights and use of sulfur boxes. The authors recommend that this type of box be avoided in the future, and that attention be given to lighting in the packaging area. Adjustments were also suggested for the video screens to minimize glare.
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(1983) British Airways, Kennedy Airport, Jamaica, New York. (Click to open report) The etiology of itching and dermatitis was investigated at the British Airways terminal (SIC-4583), Kennedy International Airport, Jamaica, New York. Request for the investigation was made by several of the 110 employees in response to cases of itching and dermatitis. Airborne dust samples were collected and particles were identified. Temperature and humidity of the ambient air were measured. Employees were questioned about health symptoms, work history, time spent using video display terminals,... (Click to show more)The etiology of itching and dermatitis was investigated at the British Airways terminal (SIC-4583), Kennedy International Airport, Jamaica, New York. Request for the investigation was made by several of the 110 employees in response to cases of itching and dermatitis. Airborne dust samples were collected and particles were identified. Temperature and humidity of the ambient air were measured. Employees were questioned about health symptoms, work history, time spent using video display terminals, and type of clothing worn. Dust samples consisted primarily of aluminum- silicates, iron-silicates, gypsum, plant and paper fragments, and starch grains. Minor components included calcium phosphates, various oxides and carbonates, and crystalline and amorphous silica. All of these are commonly found in soils and wind blown dust. Two samples contained trace amounts of fibrous glass. Some dust samples contained 5 to 15 percent glass pieces. No insects were found. Employees exhibited various skin irritations, but no pattern between symptoms and duties could be found. The authors conclude that there is no substantial exposure to airborne particulates. In dry atmospheres, dust can become electrically charged and cause irritation. It is recommended that video display terminals be vacuumed and the relative humidity be kept above 30 percent.
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(1983) Culley Generating Station, Yankeetown, Indiana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 702, an evaluation of possible health hazards was undertaken at the Culley Generating Station of the Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company (SIC-4911), Yankeetown, Indiana. At the time of the study exposures to most airborne contaminants were low. Two samples taken in areas near the boilers were above the NIOSH recommended limit of 1.3 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) for sulfur-dioxide (7446095). The h... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 702, an evaluation of possible health hazards was undertaken at the Culley Generating Station of the Southern Indiana Gas and Electric Company (SIC-4911), Yankeetown, Indiana. At the time of the study exposures to most airborne contaminants were low. Two samples taken in areas near the boilers were above the NIOSH recommended limit of 1.3 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) for sulfur-dioxide (7446095). The highest coal dust level for this facility was 1.31mg/m3. The highest fly ash concentration in personal samples was 0.26mg/m3. Medical reports on the 173 employees were reviewed, yielding four cases of pneumoconiosis among men with an average employment period at this facility of 24 years. Three of the four were equipment operators, and the fourth was an electrician with responsibilities over the entire facility. The authors conclude that a hazard existed for some workers exposed to sulfur-dioxide, and that a potential hazard existed due to boiler leaks. The authors recommend that the respiratory protection program be upgraded and that employees be trained in the use and care of respirators. Environmental and medical monitoring of the employees should be increased. A joint labor/management health and safety committee should be established. Leaking seals on coal mills and other equipment should be repaired. All exposed insulation should be wrapped or covered. A heat stress survey should be conducted for those working on the boiler units and operating dozers. Regularly scheduled maintenance operations should be designed for boiler units.
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(1983) D and F Corporation, Warren, Michigan. (Click to open report) Worker complaints of skin rashes and eye irritation were investigated on February 16 and 17, and April 27 and 28, 1983 at D and F Corporation in Warren, Michigan. The evaluation was requested by an employee representative on behalf of 95 production workers concerned about possible hazardous exposures. Personal and area air samples were collected for analysis of wood dust, phenol (108952), formaldehyde (50000), epoxy resins, hardeners, and welding fumes. Medical interviews were conducted with 30 ... (Click to show more)Worker complaints of skin rashes and eye irritation were investigated on February 16 and 17, and April 27 and 28, 1983 at D and F Corporation in Warren, Michigan. The evaluation was requested by an employee representative on behalf of 95 production workers concerned about possible hazardous exposures. Personal and area air samples were collected for analysis of wood dust, phenol (108952), formaldehyde (50000), epoxy resins, hardeners, and welding fumes. Medical interviews were conducted with 30 employees. Total wood dust concentrations ranged from 0.37 to 4.0 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3), compared to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists standard of 1mg/m3. Some workers did use respirators. Formaldehyde was detected in trace concentrations up to 0.18 parts per million (ppm), compared to the OSHA standard of 3ppm. Concentrations of all other chemicals were within acceptable exposure limits. Occasional episodes of dermatitis were reported by five of the workers, and isolated complaints occurred for skin and mucous membrane irritation, headaches, and excessive noise. The authors conclude that the workers are exposed to excessive amounts of wood dust. They recommend engineering controls, use of personal protective equipment, and improved work practices, housekeeping procedures, and personal hygiene habits to reduce the dust exposures.
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(1983) Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a representative of the Denver Museum of Natural History (SIC-8421), Denver, Colorado, an evaluation was made of possible employee exposure to DDT (50293) during the cleaning of skeletons for display in the museum. Prior to the mid 1970's, DDT had been used as a disinfectant on animal specimens shipped from Africa. The same disinfectant solution also frequently contained arsenic (7440382). Six bulk samples (dirt, dust, and skeletal scrapings) were collected for anal... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a representative of the Denver Museum of Natural History (SIC-8421), Denver, Colorado, an evaluation was made of possible employee exposure to DDT (50293) during the cleaning of skeletons for display in the museum. Prior to the mid 1970's, DDT had been used as a disinfectant on animal specimens shipped from Africa. The same disinfectant solution also frequently contained arsenic (7440382). Six bulk samples (dirt, dust, and skeletal scrapings) were collected for analysis along with three personal and six area air samples. The bulk samples indicated DDT content ranging from 4 to 5500 micrograms/gram. The air samples gave levels ranging from 0.002 to 0.1mg/m3. None of the employees had any medical complaints. The author concludes that no overexposure to DDT was occurring during the cleaning operation. A potential health hazard existed, but overexposure was avoided due to use of personal protective equipment and proper techniques. The author recommends that personal protective clothing be mandatory including coveralls, boots, gloves, head caps, and organic pesticide type respirators. Good personal hygiene practices should be followed. Engineering controls to reduce exposures should be instituted such as a cleaning enclosure/compartment designed to collect waste DDT materials during cleanup of the bones, and the use of vacuum equipment with a high efficiency filter system. Shipping of the DDT contaminated waste materials should be in accordance with the EPA regulations.
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(1983) Diocese of Pueblo, Pueblo, Colorado. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the building manager, an evaluation was made of worker exposure to carbon-monoxide (630080) (CO) in the offices of the Diocese of Pueblo, Chancery Building (SIC-8661), Pueblo, Colorado. Symptoms among the workers included headaches and eye and nose irritation. The problems apparently began when the natural gas furnace was turned on due to cold weather. Heat was supplied by hot water baseboard radiators. A number of air samples were taken from various areas of the th... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the building manager, an evaluation was made of worker exposure to carbon-monoxide (630080) (CO) in the offices of the Diocese of Pueblo, Chancery Building (SIC-8661), Pueblo, Colorado. Symptoms among the workers included headaches and eye and nose irritation. The problems apparently began when the natural gas furnace was turned on due to cold weather. Heat was supplied by hot water baseboard radiators. A number of air samples were taken from various areas of the three story building. Readings were also taken for carbon-dioxide (124389). The highest CO level recorded was 2 to 3 parts per million (ppm), clearly below the OSHA standard of 50ppm. Carbon-dioxide levels were similar to those in outside air. Some of the eye and nose irritation was thought to have occurred because the radiators had not been thoroughly cleaned before being turned on for the winter season. There may have been a blockage of some sort in the chimney when the furnace was started up but which since been burned away; the blockage could have caused a CO buildup during the first few weeks of operation. The author concludes that a health hazard did not exist at the time of the evaluation. The author recommends that the thermostats be checked for proper functioning, that consideration be given to humidification during the heating season, that the chimney and baseboard radiators be checked and cleaned at the start of each heating season, and that if the building is to be made less drafty, provisions should be made for adequate fresh air intake.
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(1983) Drive Train Industries, Inc., Casper, Wyoming. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a representative of the employees at Drive Train Industries, Inc. (SIC-3714), Casper, Wyoming, a possible asbestos (1332214) hazard was investigated at the facility. An evaluation was also made of stoddard-solvent (8052413), welding fumes, iron-oxide (1309371), lead (7439921), crystalline silica (7631869), and noise exposures. This facility was involved in the rebuilding and repairing of various truck parts including brakes, clutches, drivelines, transmissions, and ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a representative of the employees at Drive Train Industries, Inc. (SIC-3714), Casper, Wyoming, a possible asbestos (1332214) hazard was investigated at the facility. An evaluation was also made of stoddard-solvent (8052413), welding fumes, iron-oxide (1309371), lead (7439921), crystalline silica (7631869), and noise exposures. This facility was involved in the rebuilding and repairing of various truck parts including brakes, clutches, drivelines, transmissions, and other mechanical parts. Many of the brakes and clutches as well as parts of other products, were refurbished and relined with some asbestos material. Three personal air samples and three area samples were collected for asbestos which produced values ranging from less than 0.1 to 340mg/m3, with the average value being 64mg/m3. Iron-oxide concentrations at the welding station ranged from 0.2 to 12mg/m3. The average lead concentration was 0.03mg/m3. No silica was detected. One worker was overexposed to noise with an 8 hour average of 94.3 decibels-A. The author concludes that a health hazard does exist from excessive noise exposures and elevated iron- oxide levels. The author recommends that adequate hearing protectors should be provided by the management.
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