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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
(1983) George H. Fallon Federal Office Building, Baltimore, Maryland. (Click to open report) Worker exposures to asbestos (1332214) were surveyed on July 20, 1983 at the George H. Fallon Building in Baltimore, Maryland. The evaluation was requested by Senator Paul Sarbanes on beh lf of about 2200 building residents, to determine the extent to which asbestos had been used, any potential hazards, and necessary abatement measures. Air, settled dust, and bulk fireproofing material samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of asbestos fibers. Air fiber concentrations were below th... (Click to show more)Worker exposures to asbestos (1332214) were surveyed on July 20, 1983 at the George H. Fallon Building in Baltimore, Maryland. The evaluation was requested by Senator Paul Sarbanes on beh lf of about 2200 building residents, to determine the extent to which asbestos had been used, any potential hazards, and necessary abatement measures. Air, settled dust, and bulk fireproofing material samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of asbestos fibers. Air fiber concentrations were below the 0.01 fiber per cubic centimeter limit of detection, and no asbestos fibers were found by transmission electron microscopy. Polarized light microscopic examination of settled dust samples also failed to reveal any asbestos fibers. The bulk samples of the fireproofing material contained 5 to 20 percent crysotile asbestos. The author concludes that no asbestos exposure hazard existed at the time of this survey. He recommends covering an encapsulation of any areas of exposed asbestos, use of accepted control measures during any renovation or maintenance activities, implementation of a respiratory program, periodic inspection and monitoring of the building for the presence of free asbestos fibers, and removal of the fireproofing materials if future monitoring reveals the presence of asbestos fibers in normal work areas.
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(1983) Great Lakes Carbon Corporation, Port Arthur, Texas. (Click to open report) Environmental samples were analyzed for calcined petroleum coke dust, crystalline silica (14808607), sulfates, sulfites, and polynuclear aromatics at Great Lakes Carbon Corporation (SIC-2999), Port Arthur, Texas in January 1982. The survey was requested by the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers International Union Local 4/23 on behalf of 165 employees because of reported cases of anthracosis and anthrasilicosis. Air samples were examined for total and respirable particulates, crystalline silica, s... (Click to show more)Environmental samples were analyzed for calcined petroleum coke dust, crystalline silica (14808607), sulfates, sulfites, and polynuclear aromatics at Great Lakes Carbon Corporation (SIC-2999), Port Arthur, Texas in January 1982. The survey was requested by the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers International Union Local 4/23 on behalf of 165 employees because of reported cases of anthracosis and anthrasilicosis. Air samples were examined for total and respirable particulates, crystalline silica, sulfates, sulfites and polynuclear aromatics. Bulk samples of calcined petroleum coke were analyzed for polynuclear aromatic content. Respiratory examinations were performed. Total particulates ranged from 1.2 to 6.1 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). Respirable particulates ranged from 0.17 to crystalline silica, sulfates, or sulfites were detected. Concentrations of polynuclear aromatics ranged from 0.10 to 36 micrograms/m3. Ten percent of the workers had abnormal pulmonary function test results. Abnormal tests were associated with work in the mobile equipment department. X-rays revealed no job related abnormalities. The authors conclude that a hazard from overexposure to petroleum coke dusts containing polynuclear aromatics exists. More effective methods of dust control are recommended.
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(1983) Ideal Cement, Laporte, Colorado. (Click to open report) Environmental and medical investigations were carried out to determine heat stress and exposure to respirable particulates: sulfur-dioxide (7446095), sulfate, and cyclohexane (110827). The study was conducted at Ideal Cement (SIC-3273) in La Porte, Colorado on June 1 and 2 and July 29, 1982. The evaluation was requested by Ideal Basic Industries on behalf of an unspecified number of workers. Wet Globe Bulb Temperatures in the work area were 84 to 97 degrees-F. NIOSH criteria were calculated to b... (Click to show more)Environmental and medical investigations were carried out to determine heat stress and exposure to respirable particulates: sulfur-dioxide (7446095), sulfate, and cyclohexane (110827). The study was conducted at Ideal Cement (SIC-3273) in La Porte, Colorado on June 1 and 2 and July 29, 1982. The evaluation was requested by Ideal Basic Industries on behalf of an unspecified number of workers. Wet Globe Bulb Temperatures in the work area were 84 to 97 degrees-F. NIOSH criteria were calculated to be 79 degrees-F for this type of work. NIOSH criteria for sulfur-dioxide is 5 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3); exposures were 25 percent greater than standards for sulfur-dioxide and sulfates. Cyclohexane could not be detected. Respirable particulates exceed the NIOSH criteria of 5mg/m3 by 33 percent. Workers experienced dizziness, eye, nose, and throat irritation, and nosebleeds when cleaning the cyclone equipment. The authors conclude that there is a hazard from overexposures to sulfur-dioxide and respirable particulates, and a heat stress problem when cleaning cyclones. They recommend monitoring sulfur-dioxide and particulates and using a vacuum system for cleanup. Workers should be trained to handle heat stress and an area should be provided to cool off at 20 minute intervals while cleaning cyclones. Work practices for hot cleanouts should be established.
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(1983) Inland Steel Company, East Chicago, Indiana. (Click to open report) Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for formaldehyde (50000), phenol (108952), and crystalline silica (14808607) at Inland Steel Company (SIC-3312), East Chicago, Indiana in July, 1982. The evaluation was requested in response to employee complaints of dry nose and mouth, and eye irritations associated with the use of a clay like substance during the coating and curing of continuous casting troughs of the blast furnace. The concentrations of formaldehyde and phenol were below ... (Click to show more)Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for formaldehyde (50000), phenol (108952), and crystalline silica (14808607) at Inland Steel Company (SIC-3312), East Chicago, Indiana in July, 1982. The evaluation was requested in response to employee complaints of dry nose and mouth, and eye irritations associated with the use of a clay like substance during the coating and curing of continuous casting troughs of the blast furnace. The concentrations of formaldehyde and phenol were below relevant federal standards. Samples collected for crystalline silica showed no detectable amounts of quartz or cristobalite. The authors conclude that a health hazard does not exist at the facility due to exposure to airborne formaldehyde, phenol, or crystalline silica. It is recommended that empty sacks of clay be properly disposed of and not be placed in troughs for burning; continuous casting troughs should be allowed to cool prior to stripping and coating; and eating, drinking, and smoking should be prohibited in the work area and allowed only in designated areas.
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(1983) Jones and Laughlin Steel Corporation, East Chicago, Indiana. (Click to open report) Breathing zone samples were conducted and a medical survey was taken to investigate lung cancer and heart disease among workers at Jones and Laughlin Steel Corporation (SIC-3317), East Chicago, Indiana during July and August, 1980. A representative of the United Steel Workers of America, Local 1011 requested the survey on behalf of 70 production and 7 supervisory personnel. Concentrations of iron-oxide (1309371) ranged from 0.17 to 9.2 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) compared with the OSHA st... (Click to show more)Breathing zone samples were conducted and a medical survey was taken to investigate lung cancer and heart disease among workers at Jones and Laughlin Steel Corporation (SIC-3317), East Chicago, Indiana during July and August, 1980. A representative of the United Steel Workers of America, Local 1011 requested the survey on behalf of 70 production and 7 supervisory personnel. Concentrations of iron-oxide (1309371) ranged from 0.17 to 9.2 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) compared with the OSHA standard for an 8 hour time weighted average of 15mg/m3. Respiratory symptoms included shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and phlegm production; the majority of symptoms were reported by cigarette smokers. Pulmonary function evaluations were all within normal limits. The authors conclude that a potential health hazard exists from iron-oxide and particulates, but no mortality or morbidity above that expected for this age group from cancer or heart disease was found. They recommend reduction of dust exposures and limitation of employee exposures by the use of engineering controls such as ventilation. Respirators should be worn by exposed employees workers should be screened for ability and equipment use prior to assignment.
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(1983) Jones and Laughlin Steel Corporation, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) Environmental samples were analyzed for crystalline silica (14808607), dust, iron-oxide (1309371), manganese (7439965), nickel (7440020), and carbon-monoxide (630080) at the Jones and Laughlin Steel Corporation (SIC-3310), Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in January and May 1981. The survey was requested by United Steel Workers of America, Local 1271 on behalf of 750 employees because of the reported high incidence of cancer among workers. A retrospective study of mortality experience was conducted. Qu... (Click to show more)Environmental samples were analyzed for crystalline silica (14808607), dust, iron-oxide (1309371), manganese (7439965), nickel (7440020), and carbon-monoxide (630080) at the Jones and Laughlin Steel Corporation (SIC-3310), Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in January and May 1981. The survey was requested by United Steel Workers of America, Local 1271 on behalf of 750 employees because of the reported high incidence of cancer among workers. A retrospective study of mortality experience was conducted. Quartz (14808607) was the only polymorph of crystalline silica detected above the lower limit of quantitation. Breathing zone samples showed quartz concentrations ranging from 0.04 to 1.24 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3), below OSHA standards of 5.0mg/m3. One sample contained iron at a concentration that was 24 percent of the OSHA limit. Manganese and nickel were present at 33 percent or less of OSHA and NIOSH standards. Settled dust was 42 to 72 percent quartz. Unexplained excess risk of cardiovascular renal disease in electric furnace workers and arteriosclerotic heart disease in mechanical maintenance workers was revealed. The authors conclude that a potential hazard exists from respirable crystalline silica. Masons are at risk for work related nonmalignant respiratory disease. Further investigation of silica exposures is recommended.
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(1983) Kalamazoo Stamping and Die Company, Kalamazoo, Michigan. (Click to open report) Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed at Kalamazoo Stamping and Die Company (SIC-3714), Kalamazoo, Michigan in March, May and July, 1982. A representative of the United Auto Workers, Local 740 requested the survey on behalf of 53 employees concerned about exposures to oil mist, welding fumes, total particulates, and trichloroethylene (79016) (TE). Questionnaires were administered to employees. The time weighted average (TWA) concentrations of oil mist among stamping machine oper... (Click to show more)Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed at Kalamazoo Stamping and Die Company (SIC-3714), Kalamazoo, Michigan in March, May and July, 1982. A representative of the United Auto Workers, Local 740 requested the survey on behalf of 53 employees concerned about exposures to oil mist, welding fumes, total particulates, and trichloroethylene (79016) (TE). Questionnaires were administered to employees. The time weighted average (TWA) concentrations of oil mist among stamping machine operators were below the OSHA standard of 5 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) of air. Concentrations of total airborne particulates in the assembly area were below the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) threshold limit value (TLV) of 10mg/m3. Concentrations of total welding fumes among welders were also below the ACGIH/TLV of 5mg/m3. All contaminants in personal breathing zone samples were below recommended criteria. No major health hazards were reported by employees. Occasional mucous membrane and skin irritations were reported by employees in other production operations. The investigators conclude that no health hazard from exposure to oil mist, welding fumes, TCE, or total airborne particulates existed at the time of this survey. A preventive program emphasizing employee education, fluid maintenance, protective equipment, and awareness programs is recommended.
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(1983) Kautt and Bux Manufacturing, Mundelein, Illinois. (Click to open report) Worker exposures to asbestos (1332214), copper (7440508) dust, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556) (TCE) were investigated on June 15, 1983 at Kautt and Bux Manufacturing (SIC-3621) in Mundelein, Illinois. The evaluation was requested by District 140, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Union, on behalf of 14 exposed production workers. Personal and area air samples were collected and analyzed for asbestos, copper dust, and TCE. Selected workers were questioned about any ... (Click to show more)Worker exposures to asbestos (1332214), copper (7440508) dust, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556) (TCE) were investigated on June 15, 1983 at Kautt and Bux Manufacturing (SIC-3621) in Mundelein, Illinois. The evaluation was requested by District 140, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Union, on behalf of 14 exposed production workers. Personal and area air samples were collected and analyzed for asbestos, copper dust, and TCE. Selected workers were questioned about any work related health problems. All asbestos concentrations were below the OSHA limit of 350ppm. For copper dust, concentrations ranged from 0.007 to 0.012 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3), compared to the OSHA limit of 1mg/m3. None of the workers questioned reported any job related health symptoms. The author concludes that no hazard exists from TCE or copper dust, but a hazard from asbestos does exist. The author recommends use of engineering controls or additional personal protective equipment during the filling of 55 gallon drums with asbestos reinforced plastic pellets, use of a vacuum with a High Efficiency Particulate Air filter to clean up excess asbestos reinforced plastic shavings, and prohibition of eating, drinking, and smoking at work stations.
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(1983) Kistler Communications, Inc., Denver, Colorado. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a representative of Kistler Communications, Inc. (SIC-4225), Denver, Colorado, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at that facility due to employee exposure to polychlorinated-biphenyls (1336363) (PCBs), polychlorinated-dioxins, or polychlorinated-dibenzofurans. A white residue was found on catalogues shipped to this company for storage from the publishing department of Gates Rubber Company. A fire and a transformer spill had occurred ear... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a representative of Kistler Communications, Inc. (SIC-4225), Denver, Colorado, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at that facility due to employee exposure to polychlorinated-biphenyls (1336363) (PCBs), polychlorinated-dioxins, or polychlorinated-dibenzofurans. A white residue was found on catalogues shipped to this company for storage from the publishing department of Gates Rubber Company. A fire and a transformer spill had occurred earlier at Gates and it was thought that these events contaminated several crates of materials which were sent to Kistler. All analyses for PCBs were negative. Analyses for metals indicated the presence of lead (7439921), zinc (7440666), and magnesium (7439954), at concentrations of 0.25, 0.42, and 0.31 percent respectively. The pH level of the grayish/white material on the cartons was 10.7, excessively high. The high alkalinity could have been responsible for the rash experienced by one worker. The authors conclude that the residue did not contain PCBs or other polychlorinated compounds, but the alkalinity of the residue appeared to be a health hazard to workers handling the catalogues. The authors recommend that Gates determine the source of the grayish/white material and avoid future contamination of printed matter. Personal protective clothing, including respirators, gloves, and possibly garments should be worn while removing this material from the cartons. Good personal hygiene measures should be carefully followed while this material is being removed.
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(1983) Mainstreet Enterprises, Lebanon, Indiana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the director of Mainstreet Enterprises (SIC-3273), a nonprofit rehabilitation sheltered workshop in Lebanon, Indiana, an evaluation was made of the occurrence of benign breast tumors among female workers exposed to concrete dust during packaging of dry powdered concrete mortar mix (Fix-Crete). Bulk samples of the finished Fix-Crete were collected to be analyzed for asbestos (1332214), crystalline silica (7631869), hexavalent chromium (18540299), and total chromium (... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the director of Mainstreet Enterprises (SIC-3273), a nonprofit rehabilitation sheltered workshop in Lebanon, Indiana, an evaluation was made of the occurrence of benign breast tumors among female workers exposed to concrete dust during packaging of dry powdered concrete mortar mix (Fix-Crete). Bulk samples of the finished Fix-Crete were collected to be analyzed for asbestos (1332214), crystalline silica (7631869), hexavalent chromium (18540299), and total chromium (7440473) content. Hexavalent chromium was found at concentrations of 32 micrograms per gram (microg/g) of bulk material. Total chromium, asbestos and silica were not detectable. Respirable particulate concentrations ranged from 0.8 to 2.3 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). Total particulates ranged from 2.9 to 34.3mg/m3. After minor modifications of the ventilation system were made, retesting indicated personal breathing zone and air samples for respirable particulates averaged 0.5 and 1.1mg/m3, respectively. Total particulates ranged from 1.7 to 13.8mg/m3. No significant differences in the prevalence of benign breast tumors was noted in supervisors working on the concrete powder process when compared to those who did not work in this area. The authors conclude that there was an exposure to dust for one task. No evidence was found to link the occurrence of benign breast tumors to chemical exposures at the facility. The authors recommend that a further reduction of the mixer operator's exposure be brought about through effective engineering controls. Respirators should be used where appropriate. Vacuum cleaning equipment should be used to collect debris from the clothing of personnel and rehabilitees instead of compressed air. Protective gloves and cleaning and washing facilities should be made available.
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