HHE Determination, Report No. HHE-74-110-306, Morris Bean and Company, Yellow Springs, Ohio, June 1976.
Abstract
Exposure to toxic substances were investigated at Morris Bean and Company (SIC-3361) Yellow Springs, Ohio, on January 19 and 20, 1976. The request for the investigation was received from an authorized employee representative. Personal and area air sampling was conducted for free silica (7631869), formaldehyde (50000), phenol (108952), dimethylethylamine (75649) (DMEA), and methylene-bisphenyl- isocyanate (101688) (MDI). Medical histories of 34 workers were obtained by interview. Some physical examinations and clinical tests also were conducted. All but two MDI air samples were below the threshold limit value (TLV) of 0.2 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3); concentrations in excess of the TLV were found at a coreblow machine operator site and for an assistant engineer. Three free silica samples were in excess of the 50 micrograms per cubic meter NIOSH standard. All DMEA samples were below 8 parts per million. Formaldehyde and phenol were not found at toxic concentrations. The symptoms reported included mucous membrane, eye, ear, nose, throat, sinus, and skin irritations and respiratory difficulties. Eight workers reported acute nausea, sore throat, headache, and nose blockage. The author concludes that workers at this company are not exposed to toxic chemical concentrations. Recommendations are made to maintain minimum DMEA and free silica concentrations by improving two local exhaust systems, improving air exchange rates, providing protective clothing, and instituting other cleaning procedures. Medical surveillance programs should include histories, chest x-rays, pulmonary function tests, and general physical assessments.
Source Name
Hazard Evaluation and Technical Assistance Branch, NIOSH, Cincinnati, Ohio, Report No. HHE-74-110-306, 28 pages, 11 references
