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HHE Search Results
112 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
(1997) Valley High School, West Des Moines, Iowa. (Click to open report) On September 16-17, 1997, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a site visit at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, in response to a management request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE). The request asked NIOSH to assess indoor air quality and measure exposures to crystalline silica in the art rooms at this school. The source of crystalline silica was clay and various glazes used during ceramics courses in art room 403. The request was initiated ... (Click to show more)On September 16-17, 1997, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducted a site visit at Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, in response to a management request for a health hazard evaluation (HHE). The request asked NIOSH to assess indoor air quality and measure exposures to crystalline silica in the art rooms at this school. The source of crystalline silica was clay and various glazes used during ceramics courses in art room 403. The request was initiated folloing an employee complaint filed with the Iowa Department of Labor Services, Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) Division, regarding potential exposure to dust and silica from clays. The IOSH administrator recommended that school officials request a NIOSH HHE. Adverse health effects reported in the IOSH complaint included respiratory difficulties, dizziness, nausea, and chronic sneezing.
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(1996) Bally's Park Place Casino Hotel, Atlantic City, New Jersey. (Click to open report) In response to a request from employees at the Bally's Park Place Casino Hotel (SIC-7011), Atlantic City, New Jersey, an investigation was begun into exposure to second hand tobacco smoke among the employees. The casino employed about 800 persons who work on the casino floor, with about 330 full time dealers and 180 dealer supervisors. Workers in the gaming areas had more environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure than a representative sample of the US population. The mean serum cotinine (486566... (Click to show more)In response to a request from employees at the Bally's Park Place Casino Hotel (SIC-7011), Atlantic City, New Jersey, an investigation was begun into exposure to second hand tobacco smoke among the employees. The casino employed about 800 persons who work on the casino floor, with about 330 full time dealers and 180 dealer supervisors. Workers in the gaming areas had more environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure than a representative sample of the US population. The mean serum cotinine (486566) levels of the casino workers in this study were 1.34 nanograms/milliliter (ng/ml) (preshift) and 1.85ng/ml (postshift). Workers at the nonsmoking tables did not appear to have any decrease in their exposure to ETS. The nonsmoking tables were generally located directly adjacent to tables where smoking was permitted. No significant correlations were found between cotinine levels and either air nicotine (54115) concentration or reported ETS exposure. The authors recommend that workers not be involuntarily exposed to tobacco smoke. The best method for controlling worker exposure was to eliminate tobacco use from the workplace and to implement a smoking cessation program for employees. Until tobacco use can be completely eliminated, the authors recommend that areas where smoking is permitted be isolated and provided with dedicated ventilation.
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(1996) Greater Wheaton Chamber of Commerce, Wheaton, Illinois. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the manager of the Greater Wheaton Chamber of Commerce (GWCC), an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at the GWCC offices (SIC-8611). Workers had complained of headaches, dizziness, nausea, sore throats, lethargy, and hematuria. The workers expressed concern about possible exposure to solvents which had been discovered in a floor drain in a garage/warehouse adjacent to their building. At the time of the study, the heating system had be... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the manager of the Greater Wheaton Chamber of Commerce (GWCC), an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at the GWCC offices (SIC-8611). Workers had complained of headaches, dizziness, nausea, sore throats, lethargy, and hematuria. The workers expressed concern about possible exposure to solvents which had been discovered in a floor drain in a garage/warehouse adjacent to their building. At the time of the study, the heating system had been turned on to accelerate the off gassing of any volatile organic compounds. Air samples were collected during and after this bake out. Concentrations of toluene (108883), xylene (1330207), 1,1,1- trichloroethane (71556), and perchloroethylene (127184) were very low, ranging from trace amounts to 0.046 part per million (ppm). Concentrations of total volatile organic compounds ranged from 1.4 to 3.2mg/m3. No odors detected in the offices. No evidence was found for any exposures which would account for hematuria among these workers. A newly installed ventilation system was supplying about 100 cubic feet per minute of outside air to the office.
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(1996) Martin County Courthouse and Constitutional Office Building, Stuart, Florida. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the Martin County Board of County Commissioners, an investigation was begun into possible exposure to toxicogenic fungi during the renovation of microbiological contaminated areas of the Martin County Courthouse Complex (SIC- 9211) in Stuart, Florida. Severe contamination was present, consisting predominantly of Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys. Due to occupant health complaints the Courthouse complex was not occupied. Prior to beginning remediation effort... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the Martin County Board of County Commissioners, an investigation was begun into possible exposure to toxicogenic fungi during the renovation of microbiological contaminated areas of the Martin County Courthouse Complex (SIC- 9211) in Stuart, Florida. Severe contamination was present, consisting predominantly of Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys. Due to occupant health complaints the Courthouse complex was not occupied. Prior to beginning remediation efforts, an initial environmental assessment had been made in September of 1993, by NIOSH investigators. Follow up site visits were conducted in October and November. After completion, a final visit was made in June of 1994. Containment areas with dedicated supply and exhaust ventilation systems were used in the remediation activities. While containment areas reduced the dissemination of spores, potentially toxicogenic fungal spores were identified on 56% of the filter samples collected outside the containment areas. The authors conclude that workers were exposed to a potential health hazard during removal of the microbiologically contaminated building materials. The authors note that workers performing renovations in buildings contaminated with fungi may unknowingly put themselves and other occupants of the buildings at risk for exposure.
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(1996) Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center, Indianapolis, Indiana. (Click to open report) In response to a request from a group of Pathology Lab employees at the Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center (SIC-8071), Indianapolis, Indiana an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions. Workers reported symptoms of eye and upper respiratory irritation. The staff in the Pathology Laboratory included medical technologists and technicians working 8 hours a day performing routine tests. Even though the airborne respirable particulate concentrations were low, s... (Click to show more)In response to a request from a group of Pathology Lab employees at the Roudebush Veterans Administration Medical Center (SIC-8071), Indianapolis, Indiana an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions. Workers reported symptoms of eye and upper respiratory irritation. The staff in the Pathology Laboratory included medical technologists and technicians working 8 hours a day performing routine tests. Even though the airborne respirable particulate concentrations were low, settled particulates were noted throughout the laboratory which could contribute to worker health complaints of eye and upper respiratory irritation. Carbon-dioxide (124389) concentrations were below the 800 parts per million guideline for indoor air. Temperature and relative humidity levels were not within the comfort guidelines for optical and acceptable ranges for occupants of buildings. Air velocities were nearly five times hood face velocity, which may cause a pressure difference, allowing contaminants to escape. The author concludes that settled particulates could contribute to eye and respiratory irritation, and that ventilation deficiencies caused thermal comfort problems. The author recommends that excess particulates be reduced by improving housekeeping practices, and thermal comfort problems be resolved by modifying supply air diffusers and adjusting the relative humidity.
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(1995) Advanced Occupational Health Services, Inc., Elizabethtown, Kentucky. (Click to open report) In response to a management request from Advanced Occupational Health Services, Inc. (SIC-8049), Elizabethtown, Kentucky, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous conditions at a satellite office located in Leitchfield, Kentucky. The concern was centered around the existing ventilation system and possible exposure to chemical contaminants off gassing from the carpeting and floor tiles. Measurements of carbon-dioxide (124389) levels indicated that adequate amounts of outside air were no... (Click to show more)In response to a management request from Advanced Occupational Health Services, Inc. (SIC-8049), Elizabethtown, Kentucky, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous conditions at a satellite office located in Leitchfield, Kentucky. The concern was centered around the existing ventilation system and possible exposure to chemical contaminants off gassing from the carpeting and floor tiles. Measurements of carbon-dioxide (124389) levels indicated that adequate amounts of outside air were not being delivered to the worksite. The temperature measurements varied widely and were not within the comfort guidelines. Relative humidity levels were within comfort levels. Although trace amounts of some organic compounds were detected, the only quantifiable measurements were of ethanol (64175) at up to 2.2 parts per million (ppm) and isopropanol (67630) (up to 1.4ppm). None of the levels monitored were even close to exposure criteria. The author concludes that little outside air was introduced by the ventilation system, but exposures to organic chemicals in the air did not present an occupational hazard. The author recommends that improvements be made in the ventilation system.
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(1995) Tri-County North School, Lewisburg, Ohio. (Click to open report) In response to a request from administrators at the Tri-County North (TCN) Local School System (SIC-8211), Lewisburg, Ohio, a follow back evaluation was conducted after ventilation changes had been made, and the ventilation system had been tested and balanced. Carbon- dioxide (124389) levels, temperature, relative humidity, formaldehyde (50000), and total volatile organic compounds were measured. Carbon-dioxide levels exceeded 1,000 parts per million (ppm) in some classrooms. Formaldehyde levels... (Click to show more)In response to a request from administrators at the Tri-County North (TCN) Local School System (SIC-8211), Lewisburg, Ohio, a follow back evaluation was conducted after ventilation changes had been made, and the ventilation system had been tested and balanced. Carbon- dioxide (124389) levels, temperature, relative humidity, formaldehyde (50000), and total volatile organic compounds were measured. Carbon-dioxide levels exceeded 1,000 parts per million (ppm) in some classrooms. Formaldehyde levels ranged up to 0.019ppm in the classrooms as time weighted averages (TWAs). Total volatile organic compound concentrations of 3.7 and 4.4mg/m3 were detected in two of eight general area samples, near photocopiers. The author concludes that a health hazard was not identified during this evaluation. Indoor environmental quality has continued to improve since the initial evaluation conducted in 1992. The author recommends that the photocopiers which use liquid toner be replaced, or local exhaust ventilation be used in the area. Some classrooms still did not provide the recommended 15 cubic feet of outside air per person.
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(1995) Truman State Office Building, Jefferson City, Missouri. (Click to open report) In response to a request from employees of the Division of Motor Vehicles, Department of Revenue at the Truman State Office Building (SIC-9621), Jefferson City, Missouri, an investigation was begun into indoor air quality. Symptoms reported included headaches, chronic cough, sinus problems, and sleepiness. The temperatures were within the comfort zones but some relative humidity levels were lower than acceptable. The ventilation system apparently provided adequate outside air exchange. A follow ... (Click to show more)In response to a request from employees of the Division of Motor Vehicles, Department of Revenue at the Truman State Office Building (SIC-9621), Jefferson City, Missouri, an investigation was begun into indoor air quality. Symptoms reported included headaches, chronic cough, sinus problems, and sleepiness. The temperatures were within the comfort zones but some relative humidity levels were lower than acceptable. The ventilation system apparently provided adequate outside air exchange. A follow up survey was conducted during the winter months. Formaldehyde (50000) was detected in almost every sample location, with the highest recorded concentration being 0.008 parts per million (ppm). The ventilation filtration system appeared to be operating effectively. The authors conclude that specific environmental conditions likely to cause the symptoms reported were not identified during this study. However, there were some environmental deficiencies, plus work organization and communication problems. The authors conclude that improvements should be made in the ventilation system, and employee comfort and satisfaction could be improved through better work organization and communication with the department.
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(1995) U.S. Marshals Service, Los Angeles, California. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the management at the United States Marshals Service (USMS) (SIC-9221), Los Angeles, California, a study was made of possible occupational exposures to tuberculosis in individuals involved in the handling of prisoners. The USMS employed about 107 workers including deputy US Marshals and related operational personnel, guards, and administrative personnel. Seven positive tuberculin skin test (TST) reactions were reported among the USMS staff from January to April of 1... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the management at the United States Marshals Service (USMS) (SIC-9221), Los Angeles, California, a study was made of possible occupational exposures to tuberculosis in individuals involved in the handling of prisoners. The USMS employed about 107 workers including deputy US Marshals and related operational personnel, guards, and administrative personnel. Seven positive tuberculin skin test (TST) reactions were reported among the USMS staff from January to April of 1994. No known exposure occurred among the employees to tuberculosis (TB). Of 107 USMS employees, 69 (65%) had been tested with TST between January and June of 1994. All 16 indoor measurements of carbon-dioxide (124389) ranged from 425 to 850 parts per million (ppm). Temperature ranged from 74 to 78 degrees-F and relative humidity from 49 to 59%. Pooled standing water was noted in some of the condensate pans and evidence of water leakage was found on the ceiling tiles under the heating, ventilation and air conditioning units. No particulate filters were present in the HVAC units, nor was there a place to install filters. The authors conclude that USMS employees may have an increased risk of occupationally acquired TB infection. The authors recommend that measures be taken, including TB education and surveillance programs, and improvements in the work environment, particularly the ventilation systems.
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(1995) U.S. Marshals Service, Miami, Florida. (Click to open report) In response to a request from management, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at the United States Marshals Service (SIC-9221) (USMS), Miami, Florida. Specific concerns were voiced regarding the 11 positive tuberculin skin test (TST) reactions among USMS staff occurring from January to April of 1994. Federal prisoners were taken from federal institutions and contract facilities by USMS and escorted by bus to the USMS facility where they were held for up to 8 hou... (Click to show more)In response to a request from management, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at the United States Marshals Service (SIC-9221) (USMS), Miami, Florida. Specific concerns were voiced regarding the 11 positive tuberculin skin test (TST) reactions among USMS staff occurring from January to April of 1994. Federal prisoners were taken from federal institutions and contract facilities by USMS and escorted by bus to the USMS facility where they were held for up to 8 hours a day, being taken to and from the court room for appearances and later transported back to their holding facilities or prison. USMS staff also accompanied prisoners after sentencing to their prisons or to medical facilities when they were ill. Of 63 USMS workers with direct contact with prisoners, 46 received a TST between May of 1993 and February of 1995. A positive response was obtained in seven of these workers; none had a documented prior nonreactive TST. Three reported contact with a TST positive prisoner during his stay at the facility. Deficiencies were noted in the amount of outdoor air delivered to the facility through the current ventilation system. The authors conclude that the available data are not sufficient to assess the prevalence of tuberculosis infection or tuberculosis transmission in this group. The authors recommend that improvements be made in the TST surveillance program and in the environmental air quality at the worksite.
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