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HHE Search Results
1063 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
(1980) GTE Sylvania Plant, Standish, Maine. (Click to open report) An environmental and medical survey was conducted at the General Telephone and Electronics Sylvania Company (SIC-3670) in Standish, Maine. The employees requested the evaluation to investigate possible health hazards from copper (7440508) exposures resulting from the manufacture of small electrical components. The initial investigation on July 31 and August 1, 1979 revealed that copper, isopropanol (67630), and inorganic vapors measured in area air samples were well below OSHA standards. However... (Click to show more)An environmental and medical survey was conducted at the General Telephone and Electronics Sylvania Company (SIC-3670) in Standish, Maine. The employees requested the evaluation to investigate possible health hazards from copper (7440508) exposures resulting from the manufacture of small electrical components. The initial investigation on July 31 and August 1, 1979 revealed that copper, isopropanol (67630), and inorganic vapors measured in area air samples were well below OSHA standards. However, elevated concentrations of airborne lead (7439921) were detected throughout the facility with 80 percent in excess of the OSHA standard of 50 micrograms per cubic meter. Employees with previously documented high copper excretion were interviewed and had blood and 24 hour urine samples taken for lead and copper analysis. Their symptoms were not compatible with the reported effects of lead or copper intoxication, and increased urinary copper excretion could not be confirmed. A follow up study to evaluate lead exposure on November 14 and 15, 1979 found blood lead concentrations in 88 workers ranging from 12 to 68 micrograms per deciliter (dl). Airborne concentrations in personal breathing zone and area samples ranged from undetectable to 306, and undetectable to 113 micrograms per cubic meter, respectively. The authors conclude that no significant exposure to copper exists but that unacceptably high concentrations of lead were detected and resulted in elevated blood lead in workers. They recommended that the health hazard from lead be reduced through engineering controls, improved ventilation, substitution of the leaded glass used, and initiation of a program to monitor blood lead concentrations in workers.
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(1980) Hyde Park Landfill, Niagara Steel Finishing Co., Greif Brothers Corporation, NL Industries, Inc., Niagara County, New York. (Click to open report) Hazards associated with the Hyde Park Landfill in Niagara County, New York, and with occupational exposures at three nearby industries were surveyed between June and August, 1979. Breathing zone, dust, and sediment samples were collected in and around NL Industries, Incorporated, Niagara Steel Finishing Company, and Greif Brothers Corporation. Current and former employees of the three companies, as well as local residents, were given medical examinations. Lindane (58899), mirex (2385855), and di... (Click to show more)Hazards associated with the Hyde Park Landfill in Niagara County, New York, and with occupational exposures at three nearby industries were surveyed between June and August, 1979. Breathing zone, dust, and sediment samples were collected in and around NL Industries, Incorporated, Niagara Steel Finishing Company, and Greif Brothers Corporation. Current and former employees of the three companies, as well as local residents, were given medical examinations. Lindane (58899), mirex (2385855), and dioxins were found in parts per billion concentrations in settled dust samples collected from rafters at all three industries, and substantial concentrations were found in sediment from an abandoned elevator shaft at NL Industries and in sediment from Bloody Creek Run as it flowed through a conduit under Greif Brothers Corporation. Several hazardous occupational exposures were identified at NL Industries, and hazardous occupational exposures to copper fume were found at Niagara Steel Finishing Company. No occupational health hazards were found at Greif Brothers Corporation. The subjects reported a significant prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms, gastrointestinal surgery, skin problems, and respiratory symptoms. Three subjects had blood lindane concentrations greater than 0.5 part per billion. The authors conclude that the landfill does not present an immediate health hazard.
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(1980) James G. Biddle Company, Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) Environmental air samples were analyzed for the presence of nuisance dust and lead (7439921) (Pb) on January 23, 1980 and a medical evaluation of employees for blood Pb was conducted on January 28, 1980 at the James G. Biddle Company (SIC-3599) in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania. An evaluation was requested by the company on behalf of 16 employees. Analysis of air samples showed that the nuisance dust concentration was 0.4 milligram per cubic meter and Pb fume and dust concentrations ranged from ... (Click to show more)Environmental air samples were analyzed for the presence of nuisance dust and lead (7439921) (Pb) on January 23, 1980 and a medical evaluation of employees for blood Pb was conducted on January 28, 1980 at the James G. Biddle Company (SIC-3599) in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania. An evaluation was requested by the company on behalf of 16 employees. Analysis of air samples showed that the nuisance dust concentration was 0.4 milligram per cubic meter and Pb fume and dust concentrations ranged from below the limit of detection to 14 micrograms per cubic meter. The range of blood Pb was from 6 to 18 micrograms per 100 milliliters. Atmospheric and blood Pb concentrations were below OSHA limits of 50 micrograms per cubic meter and 40 micrograms per 100 milliliters, respectively. The authors conclude that there was no health hazard from exposure to inert dust or Pb at the time of the survey. They recommend that areas where Pb is used be cleaned by wet vacuum methods.
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(1980) Jeannette Glass Company, Jeannette, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) Personal and area environmental samples were analyzed for arsenic- trioxide (1327533), selenium (7782492), silica (7631869), total and respirable dust, exposed and nonexposed workers were examined by a dermatologist and samples of blood, urine and pubic hair were collected at the Jeannette Glass Company (SIC-3229), in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, on April 8 and 9, 1980. The evaluation was requested by the American Flint Glassworkers of North America, Local 535, on behalf of 35 workers in the mix and... (Click to show more)Personal and area environmental samples were analyzed for arsenic- trioxide (1327533), selenium (7782492), silica (7631869), total and respirable dust, exposed and nonexposed workers were examined by a dermatologist and samples of blood, urine and pubic hair were collected at the Jeannette Glass Company (SIC-3229), in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, on April 8 and 9, 1980. The evaluation was requested by the American Flint Glassworkers of North America, Local 535, on behalf of 35 workers in the mix and melt areas and the batchhouse. Arsenic concentrations ranged from 2 to 11 micrograms per cubic meter (CuM). One of eight samples had an arsenic concentration of 10.77 micrograms/CuM, which exceeded the OSHA criteria of 10 micrograms/CuM. Concentrations of selenium were below the federal standard of 200 micrograms/CuM. Respirable dust concentrations ranged from 0.14 to 0.99 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/CuM) and the quartz content of bulk dust was 10 percent. Some of the examined workers were afflicted with various presumably non-occupational skin disorders. Blood samples had arsenic concentrations below the detection limit of 1 microgram per 100 grams of blood. The authors conclude a health hazard due to arsenic-trioxide existed in the area surveyed. Since June 1980, arsenic-trioxide is no longer used at the factory. The authors recommend measures to avoid spillage, periodical monitoring of respirable silica, and informing arsenic exposed workers of an increased risk of developing skin and lung cancer.
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(1980) Jewish Vocational Service, Chicago, Illinois. (Click for full summary) Bulk samples of ceiling tiles from the Jewish Vocational Service (SIC-8331) in Chicago, Illinois were analyzed for asbestos (1332214) content on July 12 and 16, 1979. An unidentified individual requested the evaluation on behalf of an unspecified number of persons. No asbestos fibers were detected on any of the sample preparations. The author concludes that no hazard from exposure to asbestos from ceiling tiles exists at this facility.(Click to show more)Bulk samples of ceiling tiles from the Jewish Vocational Service (SIC-8331) in Chicago, Illinois were analyzed for asbestos (1332214) content on July 12 and 16, 1979. An unidentified individual requested the evaluation on behalf of an unspecified number of persons. No asbestos fibers were detected on any of the sample preparations. The author concludes that no hazard from exposure to asbestos from ceiling tiles exists at this facility.
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(1980) Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Corporation, Ravenswood, West Virginia. (Click to open report) Environmental and medical surveys and technological assessments were conducted on July 18 to 20, 1978, and April 3 to 5 and June 11 to 14, 1979, to update environmental conditions and evaluate the ventilation systems in the potrooms at the Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Corporation facility in Ravenswood, West Virginia (SIC- 3341). The evaluation was requested by a union safety and health committee member of the United Steelworkers of America, Local 5668, on behalf of the potroom employees. Person... (Click to show more)Environmental and medical surveys and technological assessments were conducted on July 18 to 20, 1978, and April 3 to 5 and June 11 to 14, 1979, to update environmental conditions and evaluate the ventilation systems in the potrooms at the Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Corporation facility in Ravenswood, West Virginia (SIC- 3341). The evaluation was requested by a union safety and health committee member of the United Steelworkers of America, Local 5668, on behalf of the potroom employees. Personal and area air samples were obtained for determinations of coal-tar pitch (65996932) volatiles (CTPV), polynuclear-aromatic-hydrocarbons (PNA), total particulates, and fluorides. Indicator tube sampling was done for sulfur-dioxide (7446095), carbon-monoxide (630080), and hydrogen- fluoride (7664393). CTPV concentrations ranged from undetectable to of 0.20mg/m3; PNAs were present in 27 of 46 samples; total particulates ranged from 0.3 to 177.0 mg/m3, exceeding the OSHA standard of 150.0 mg/m3; sulfur-dioxide ranged from undetectable to over 25 parts per million (ppm), exceeding the OSHA standard of 5ppm. Medical questionnaires indicated that dust and off gases from the pots may have caused mucous membrane irritation. Ventilation assessment showed that the pothood system was well designed but that deficiencies in maintenance and housekeeping may have reduced its efficiency. The author concludes that potentially hazardous exposures to CTPV, total particulates, and sulfur dioxide existed for certain potroom workers. He recommends that ventilation maintenance be improved, that workers use respiratory protection when necessary, and that anode setters be studied for pot emission exposures.
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(1980) Kawecki Berlyco Industries, Inc., Boyertown, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) Personal breathing zone samples were collected for total and respirable dust and titanium-diboride (12045635), workers were given a medical questionnaire, pulmonary function tests a and chest X-ray and concentrations of urinary fluorides were measured at Kawecki Berylco Industries, Incorporated (SIC-2819) in Boyertown, Pennsylvania between December, 1979, and March, 1980. The evaluation was requested by the International Chemical Workers Union, Local 619 alleging adverse health effects from expo... (Click to show more)Personal breathing zone samples were collected for total and respirable dust and titanium-diboride (12045635), workers were given a medical questionnaire, pulmonary function tests a and chest X-ray and concentrations of urinary fluorides were measured at Kawecki Berylco Industries, Incorporated (SIC-2819) in Boyertown, Pennsylvania between December, 1979, and March, 1980. The evaluation was requested by the International Chemical Workers Union, Local 619 alleging adverse health effects from exposure to fluorides and carbides. Urine fluoride concentrations were within the NIOSH recommended limit of 4 milligrams per liter. The combined airborne particulate and gaseous fluoride concentrations ranged from 3,161 to 3,600 micrograms per cubic meter during the pumping of hydrofluoric-acid (7664393) from drums and drum washing, exceeding the OSHA evaluation criteria of 2,500 micrograms per cubic meter. Medical questionnaires and chest X-rays indicated that workers exposed to carbides and diborides had results that were similar to those for other workers. Pulmonary function tests were lower for exposed workers but this was not statistically significant. Production workers employed at the facility for more than 15 years had lower lung capacity than other workers. The authors conclude that workers pumping hydrofluoric-acid from drums and washing drums are exposed to unacceptable concentrations of hydrofluoric-acid and that carbides and diborides could have a chronic effect on lung function. They recommend medical tests for new employees, installation of engineering controls and an educational program for workers handling chemicals.
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(1980) Kawecki Berylco Industries, Inc., Boyertown, Pennsylvania. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the International Chemical Workers Union, Locals 619 and 959, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at Kawecki Berylco Industries, Inc., Boyertown, Pennsylvania. Concern was voiced over exposures to titanium-diboride (12045635) (TiB2), which was produced at this facility, carbon-black (1333864), and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNAs). The process involves the blending of titanium- dioxide (13463677), boron-carbide (12069328) and carbo... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the International Chemical Workers Union, Locals 619 and 959, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous working conditions at Kawecki Berylco Industries, Inc., Boyertown, Pennsylvania. Concern was voiced over exposures to titanium-diboride (12045635) (TiB2), which was produced at this facility, carbon-black (1333864), and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNAs). The process involves the blending of titanium- dioxide (13463677), boron-carbide (12069328) and carbon-black. Following vacuum sintering, the product, TiB2, was powered through jaw crushing, screening, ball milling, and fine grinding. Analysis of the carbon-black revealed that it had an excessive content of cyclohexane extractables, suggesting that it was contaminated with PNAs. There was also a high total dust exposure at this facility. The author concludes that a potential hazard exists of exposure to carbon-black containing polynuclear aromatics. The author recommends that better exhaust ventilation measures be designed; that the water blending activity be automated, thus reducing contact time with carbon-black; that respiratory protective devices be used which are considered acceptable for this task; and that hygiene facilities be adequate.
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(1980) L.R.I. Industries, Chelsea, Michigan. (Click to open report) In response to a request from the United Auto Workers, Local 437, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous exposures to dusts containing silica (7631869) and other toxic compounds at L.R.I. Industries, Chelsea, Michigan. This facility manufactures ceramic tumbling media for mass finishing of metal parts. General area and personal breathing samples were taken in all areas where dust could settle or be generated. The batchware operator, special refractory operator, and the pug mill operator we... (Click to show more)In response to a request from the United Auto Workers, Local 437, an evaluation was made of possible hazardous exposures to dusts containing silica (7631869) and other toxic compounds at L.R.I. Industries, Chelsea, Michigan. This facility manufactures ceramic tumbling media for mass finishing of metal parts. General area and personal breathing samples were taken in all areas where dust could settle or be generated. The batchware operator, special refractory operator, and the pug mill operator were slightly overexposed to respirable free silica. All noise measurements taken exceeded the NIOSH recommended levels of 85 decibels-A (dBA) for an 8 hour workday and the OSHA standard of 90dBA. The author concludes that hazards existed from exposure to noise, free silica and unsanitary eating conditions at this facility. The author recommends that the exhaust ventilation system for the batchware operator be redesigned so as to reduce dust exposure. Housekeeping throughout the facility should be improved, and worn gaskets around duct work should be repaired or replaced. Engineering controls should be utilized to reduce noise in inspection and pug mill areas. The pug mill machine should have rubber gaskets and mufflers installed. The salvage machine has already been isolated from the workers. Medical surveillance should be upgraded. NIOSH approved respirators should be used. An eating facility should be established which is separate from the factory area.
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(1980) Long Island Railroad, Richmond Hill, New York. (Click to open report) Environmental and personal air samples collected from the armature room, battery shop, and paint shop were analyzed for dusts, fumes and chemical pollutants at the Long Island Rail Road Richmond Hill facility, New York, from June 2 to 5, 1980. The evaluation was requested by an authorized representative of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 589, on behalf of 800 hourly and 40 administrative workers. Breathing zone and general area samples were analyzed for particulates, a... (Click to show more)Environmental and personal air samples collected from the armature room, battery shop, and paint shop were analyzed for dusts, fumes and chemical pollutants at the Long Island Rail Road Richmond Hill facility, New York, from June 2 to 5, 1980. The evaluation was requested by an authorized representative of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 589, on behalf of 800 hourly and 40 administrative workers. Breathing zone and general area samples were analyzed for particulates, asbestos (1332214), and metal dusts and fumes, vinyl-toluene (25013154), maleic-anhydride (108316), sulfuric-acid (7664939) mist, arsine (7784421), stibine (7803523), methyl-chloride (74873), isopropanol (67630), methanol (67561), methyl-butyl-ketone (591786), heptane (142825), 1-nitropropane (108032), 2-nitropropane (79469), xylene (1330207), toluene (108883), butanol (71363), methyl-ethyl-ketone (78933), cellosolve-acetate (111159), butyl-acetate (123864), hexamethylene-diisocyanate (822060), and freon (75456). Analysis of breathing zone and general area samples indicated that all concentrations were well within the limits of the federal evaluation criteria, except for one sample of a nuisance particulate. The sample contained 16.1 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of particulate, which exceeded the OSHA standard of 5mg/kg. Two samples of methylene-chloride were measured at 115.3 and 187.2ppm, exceeding the NIOSH standard of 75ppm. Five samples of hexamethylene-diisocyanate ranged from 0.027 to 0.054ppm, exceeding the NIOSH standard of 0.005ppm. The author concludes that a potential hazard exists from overexposure to nuisance particulates, methylene-chloride and hexamethylene-diisocyanate. He recommends improved exhaust ventilation and provision of respiratory protection to employees.
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