HETA Report No. TA-79-12, Lincoln Hall, Lincolndale, New York.
Abstract
Site visits and employee medical evaluations were conducted on December 13, 1978, January 3, February 8, March 19, and April 24, 1979, at Lincoln Hall, a boys' school (SIC-8211) in Lincolndale, New York. The school administration requested the investigation in response to worker complaints of itchiness, irritation, fatigue, and nausea. A review of previous evaluations identified minimal amounts of fiberglass (14808607) particles, formaldehyde (50000), and volatile chemicals in the air, but all in acceptable quantities. The erratic pattern of complaints was most often attributed to the handling of old files stored in the former business office and contact with a wet copying machine. Poor ventilation is noted as a possible contributing factor. No clear pattern of symptoms could be established and no specific hazard was identified. It is concluded that any reported irritations are caused by common office exposures and no serious hazard is present. Improved ventilation, good housekeeping practices, the use of nonirritant cleaning agents, and careful personal hygiene practices are recommended. Immediate examination of any employee experiencing symptoms also is recommended to evaluate fully any potential hazard.
Source Name
Hazard Evaluation and Technical Assistance Branch, NIOSH, Cincinnati, Ohio, Report No. TA-79-12, 11 pages
