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HHE Search Results
1058 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) Saft America, Incorporated, St. Paul, Minnesota. (Click to open report) Worker exposures to cadmium (7440439) (Cd) and nickel (7440020) (Ni) dusts were investigated on November 17 to 19, 1981 at Saft America, Incorporated (SIC-3691), in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The evaluation was requested by employee members of Local 110, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, on behalf of about 225 production employees. Personal breathing zone air samples were collected for various operations, and data from the company's biological monitoring records was examined. Five of ... (Click to show more)Worker exposures to cadmium (7440439) (Cd) and nickel (7440020) (Ni) dusts were investigated on November 17 to 19, 1981 at Saft America, Incorporated (SIC-3691), in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The evaluation was requested by employee members of Local 110, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, on behalf of about 225 production employees. Personal breathing zone air samples were collected for various operations, and data from the company's biological monitoring records was examined. Five of 42 samples exceeded the OSHA 8 hour time weighted average standard for Cd of 200 micrograms per cubic meter. Exposures were greatest for workers in the terminal departments and for coiling machine operators. None of the Ni samples exceeded the OSHA standard of 1000 micrograms per cubic meter; however, significant exposures occurred for workers in the sintering, terminal, coiling, and punch press areas. Values for blood Cd, urinary Cd, blood urea nitrogen, and urinary beta 2 microglobulin suggested significant Cd absorption and related kidney damage in workers with heavy Cd exposure. The authors conclude that a health hazard exists from exposures to Cd and Ni dusts. Several workers appeared to have early signs of Cd induced kidney disease. The authors recommend increased ventilation, use of respiratory protectors, improved work hygiene and housekeeping practices, and medical monitoring to identify early indicators of kidney damage.
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(1983) Saint Francis High School, Morgantown, West Virginia. (Click to open report) Bulk samples were analyzed for asbestos (1332214) at Saint Francis High School (SIC-8211), Morgantown, West Virginia on January 21, 1983. The evaluation was requested by the principal to identify areas where asbestos could be present. A complete survey of the building was conducted and bulk samples were collected. The samples were analyzed by polarized light microscopy. Friable asbestos containing materials were found on some of the ceilings and on the walls above the lockers. Asbestos was also ... (Click to show more)Bulk samples were analyzed for asbestos (1332214) at Saint Francis High School (SIC-8211), Morgantown, West Virginia on January 21, 1983. The evaluation was requested by the principal to identify areas where asbestos could be present. A complete survey of the building was conducted and bulk samples were collected. The samples were analyzed by polarized light microscopy. Friable asbestos containing materials were found on some of the ceilings and on the walls above the lockers. Asbestos was also found in insulating materials used in the boiler room and on some of the pipes on the first floor. Most of the material was in good condition and would not be a hazard if undisturbed. The friable materials were well bonded to the ceilings and walls and encapsulated with paint. The author concludes that there is no asbestos hazard at the school, however, the friable material above the lockers is susceptible to contact damage and the paint would not be effective in preventing fiber release if damaged. The author recommends that the material above the lockers be removed because of its accessibility and friability.
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(1983) San Francisco Newspaper Agency, San Francisco, California. (Click to open report) Environmental samples were analyzed for asbestos (1332214), lead (7439921), paper dust, mineral-oil (8012951) mist, and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons at the San Francisco Newspaper Agency (SIC- 2711) San Francisco, California in August 1979. The survey was requested by the president of the Web Pressmen and Platemakers Local Union Number 4 on behalf of 246 workers to assess exposures to ink mists and paper dusts. Paper samples were analyzed for asbestos. Six ink samples were analyzed for 31 m... (Click to show more)Environmental samples were analyzed for asbestos (1332214), lead (7439921), paper dust, mineral-oil (8012951) mist, and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons at the San Francisco Newspaper Agency (SIC- 2711) San Francisco, California in August 1979. The survey was requested by the president of the Web Pressmen and Platemakers Local Union Number 4 on behalf of 246 workers to assess exposures to ink mists and paper dusts. Paper samples were analyzed for asbestos. Six ink samples were analyzed for 31 metals. One ink was examined for polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. Air samples were taken for inorganic lead, paper dust, and mineral-oil mist measurements. A respiratory symptom questionnaire was administered. Pulmonary function testing was conducted. No asbestos was found in the paper. Lead was the only metal found in any of the inks at a concentration greater than 1 percent. No polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons were detected. No lead was detected in air samples. Paper dust concentrations were 20 percent or less of the OSHA standards. Oil mist concentrations were 33 percent or less of OSHA standards. Pulmonary function tests revealed no difference between pressmen and comparisons. The authors conclude that no overexposure to lead, asbestos, ink mists, or dust exists. Proper safety precautions are recommended.
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(1983) Seth Thomas Division, General Time Corporation, Boscawen, New Hampshire. (Click to open report) In response to a request from five employees of the Seth Thomas Division of the General Time Corporation (SIC-3873), Boscawen, New Hampshire, a study was made of possible exposure to airborne wood dust, spray lacquers and wipe stains used during the manufacturing of grandfather clocks. Workers particularly affected were employed in the finishing area and the mill area. These individuals reported nausea, headaches, dizziness, and light headedness. Respirable dust concentrations ranged from 0.48 t... (Click to show more)In response to a request from five employees of the Seth Thomas Division of the General Time Corporation (SIC-3873), Boscawen, New Hampshire, a study was made of possible exposure to airborne wood dust, spray lacquers and wipe stains used during the manufacturing of grandfather clocks. Workers particularly affected were employed in the finishing area and the mill area. These individuals reported nausea, headaches, dizziness, and light headedness. Respirable dust concentrations ranged from 0.48 to 0.53 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). Total particulate concentrations ranged from 0.15 to 36mg/m3. The 36mg/m3 was a personal sample collected from a router who worked on a ventilated machine which did not appear to be effective at collecting larger wood particles. Seven personal solvent vapor samples were taken. All measured concentrations of hexane (110543), toluene (108883), methyl-isobutyl-ketone (108101), and xylene (1330207) were below evaluation criteria and OSHA standards. Even taking the health effects of all four solvents as additive, the individual doing lacquer sealing had the highest exposure level, which was still only 22 percent of the limits recommended by NIOSH. The authors conclude that there are potential overexposures to wood dust, and that solvent exposures at the varnishing operation may have exceeded those at other operations. The authors recommend that the local exhaust ventilation be upgraded at the router location. NIOSH approved respirators for wood dust should be available to all workers in the hand sanding room. The use of compressed air for cleaning work areas should be discouraged and a vacuum system used instead. Ventilation systems in spray booths should be upgraded and the booths themselves redesigned for better control of the spray particles. Periodic skin examinations should be performed.
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(1983) US Borax and Chemical Corp, Boron, California. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the International Longshoreman's and Warehouseman's Union and the management of US Borax and Chemical corporation, an investigation was begun into respiratory complaints at the borax mine and refining facility in Boron, California. Concern was voiced regarding exposure to dust and resulting respiratory disease. Based on the response of an earlier study, a medical survey was performed at the company. The study population included all mine and refining facility worker... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the International Longshoreman's and Warehouseman's Union and the management of US Borax and Chemical corporation, an investigation was begun into respiratory complaints at the borax mine and refining facility in Boron, California. Concern was voiced regarding exposure to dust and resulting respiratory disease. Based on the response of an earlier study, a medical survey was performed at the company. The study population included all mine and refining facility workers with at least 5 years tenure plus all workers currently working in the fusing or granulating facility, regardless of tenure. Of the 676 eligible workers, 629 (93%) participated. Symptoms of mucosal and ocular irritation were common and were significantly related to dust exposures. At dust levels of 1mg/m3, the symptoms were largely nonexistent. At dust levels above 4.1mg/m3, the symptoms were present with increasing frequency. Smoking status was not a factor. Evidence of pneumoconiosis was noted in 3.4% of the workers and pleural thickening in 2.6%. It is recommended that the total suspended particle levels be reduced below 4mg/m3 and as close to 1mg/m3 as possible.
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(1983) Warrick Generating Station, Yankeetown, Indiana. (Click to open report) Exposures to boiler gases and coal dust were surveyed in August 1981 at Warrick Generating Station (SIC-4911), Yankeetown, Indiana. Evaluation was requested by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 702, on behalf of 165 workers. Air samples were collected for nitrogen-dioxide (10102440), nitric-oxide (10102439), sulfur-dioxide (7446095), coal dust, fly-ash, silica (14808607), and inorganic metals. Boiler units were checked for leaks. Questionnaires and medical examinations w... (Click to show more)Exposures to boiler gases and coal dust were surveyed in August 1981 at Warrick Generating Station (SIC-4911), Yankeetown, Indiana. Evaluation was requested by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 702, on behalf of 165 workers. Air samples were collected for nitrogen-dioxide (10102440), nitric-oxide (10102439), sulfur-dioxide (7446095), coal dust, fly-ash, silica (14808607), and inorganic metals. Boiler units were checked for leaks. Questionnaires and medical examinations were completed. One of 22 personal samples for coal dust exceeded the OSHA standard of 2.4 milligrams per cubic meter. All other substances in the personal samples were within OSHA limits. Boiler leaks were found on the positive pressure boiler unit. Sulfur-dioxide concentrations in the boiler gas samples ranged from 15 to 20 parts per million (OSHA standard is 5 parts per million for an 8 hour time weighted average). Workers complained of cough, breathlessness, or wheezing. No deficits occurred in respiratory function tests. No cases of pneumoconiosis were found. The authors conclude that workers are exposed to high concentrations of sulfur-dioxide, coal dust, and crystalline silica. They recommend respiratory protection, maintenance of boiler units and seals, a heat stress survey for boiler units and dozer operators, and removal of asbestos insulation in the lunchroom oven.
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(1983) Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio. (Click for full summary) Hazardous exposures associated with refuse derived fuel were investigated in June, 1982 at a steam generation facility which stored and burned the fuel at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. The evaluation was requested by an unspecified individual. Air samples were collected for determinations of total and respirable particulates, trace metals, organic vapors, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), sulfur-dioxide (7446095), nitrogen- dioxide (10102440), and microbiological agents. In th... (Click to show more)Hazardous exposures associated with refuse derived fuel were investigated in June, 1982 at a steam generation facility which stored and burned the fuel at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. The evaluation was requested by an unspecified individual. Air samples were collected for determinations of total and respirable particulates, trace metals, organic vapors, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), sulfur-dioxide (7446095), nitrogen- dioxide (10102440), and microbiological agents. In the fuel storage building, concentrations of total and respirable particulates exceeded the respective OSHA limits of 15 and 5 milligrams per cubic meter. Trace amounts of calcium, iron, and manganese also were found. In the fuel burning building, total and respirable particulate concentrations were within OSHA limits, and trace concentrations of calcium, iron, and manganese were found. Concentrations of organics, hydrocarbons, sulfur-dioxide, nitrogen- dioxide, and PCBs were either not detectable or were within acceptable limits. In both buildings, the microbiological agents Klebsiella-pneumoniae, Enterobacter, and Mucor were isolated. The author concludes that workers are exposed to excessive concentrations of total and respirable particulates and to airborne pathogens. He recommends the use of dust suppressing agents, enclosure and ventilation of overhead conveyors, and the use of half mask respirators with dust filters.
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Contact us to obtain a copy of report HETA-82-201-1365.
(1982) 101 Marietta Tower Building, Atlanta, Georgia. (Click for full summary) In response to a request from employees of the U.S. Public Health Service, Region-IV, 101 Marietta Tower Building (SIC-9190), Atlanta, Georgia, an evaluation was made of eye irritation, sinus problems, and nasal congestion. Twenty nine floors in the 36 floor office building were leased by the General Services Administration for federal government offices. The only air contaminants found on sampling in the building were trace amounts of hydrocarbon vapors, possibly released from photocopy machine... (Click to show more)In response to a request from employees of the U.S. Public Health Service, Region-IV, 101 Marietta Tower Building (SIC-9190), Atlanta, Georgia, an evaluation was made of eye irritation, sinus problems, and nasal congestion. Twenty nine floors in the 36 floor office building were leased by the General Services Administration for federal government offices. The only air contaminants found on sampling in the building were trace amounts of hydrocarbon vapors, possibly released from photocopy machines and low levels of carbon- monoxide (630080). Dust concentrations in the building averaged 37.5 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/m3). The authors conclude that no factor or group of causative factors could be identified as responsible for any of the symptoms experienced by the employees in this building. The authors recommend some measures to possibly help prevent these problems. The heating, ventilating and air conditioning system should be balanced so as to evenly distribute the supply of air to each office or work area. The outdoor air supply should be increased to provide at least 20 cubic feet/minute of outdoor air per person. All missing ceiling panels should be replaced to allow proper air return. Employee comfort should be considered as an important issue.
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Contact us to obtain a copy of report TA-80-122-1117.
(1982) Allis-Chalmers Corporation, West Allis, Wisconsin. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a representative of Local 248 of the United Auto Workers, an evaluation of possible health hazards was made at the Allis-Chalmers Corporation (SIC-3321), West Allis, Wisconsin. Air samples were analyzed for free crystalline silica (7631869), carbon-monoxide (630080), and nickel (7440020), each of which was found to be present in excessive amounts in several areas of the facility. A second followup survey measured concentrations of metal fumes, dimethylethylamine (75... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a representative of Local 248 of the United Auto Workers, an evaluation of possible health hazards was made at the Allis-Chalmers Corporation (SIC-3321), West Allis, Wisconsin. Air samples were analyzed for free crystalline silica (7631869), carbon-monoxide (630080), and nickel (7440020), each of which was found to be present in excessive amounts in several areas of the facility. A second followup survey measured concentrations of metal fumes, dimethylethylamine (75649), carbon-monoxide, and methylene-bisphenyl-isocyanate (101688) (MDI). Exposures to respirable crystalline silica, nickel and carbon-monoxide exceeded the NIOSH recommended standards. Of the 67 workers for whom occupational histories and chest x-rays were available, six had silicosis, including one case of silicotuberculosis. One other pneumoconiosis case was also found. Symptoms of recent upper respiratory symptoms were noted in 75 percent of the workers. Nine showed abnormal pulmonary function tests. The authors conclude that health hazards exist due to excessive exposure to free crystalline silica in the core making and cleaning department, carbon-monoxide in the old coke fired cupolas and pouring areas and to nickel in the finishing area. The authors recommend that engineering controls, monitoring, and medical management be improved.
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(1982) Armco Composites, Hartford City, Indiana. (Click to open report) Occupational exposures to cured resin particulates, styrene (100425) monomer, and ergonomic stresses at Armco Composites (SIC-3079), Hartford City, Indiana were investigated. About 120 production employees work on site. The study was a result of a confidential request and was performed on March 1 and 12, and July 20 and 21, 1981. Air samples were analyzed and medical interviews were conducted with 29 workers and an ergonomic study was performed. Personal breathing zone time weighted average conc... (Click to show more)Occupational exposures to cured resin particulates, styrene (100425) monomer, and ergonomic stresses at Armco Composites (SIC-3079), Hartford City, Indiana were investigated. About 120 production employees work on site. The study was a result of a confidential request and was performed on March 1 and 12, and July 20 and 21, 1981. Air samples were analyzed and medical interviews were conducted with 29 workers and an ergonomic study was performed. Personal breathing zone time weighted average concentrations of cured resin particulates peaked at 20.1 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3). Two samples exceeded the OSHA standard of 15mg/m3. Styrene values were all below the OSHA standard of 435mg/m3. Eighteen employees exhibited early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) with symptoms of nocturnal numbness, swelling, and pain. Postures assumed during work included wrist flexion and extension, ulnar and radial deviation of the wrist, and open hand pinch. These postures have been associated with CTS. The authors conclude that a health hazard did exist from tasks involving repetitive hand and wrist movements. Exposures to cured resin particulates exceeded the nuisance dust criteria. Recommendation for decreasing the incidence of CTS and exposure to cured resin dusts are provided.
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