Health hazard evaluation report: HETA-82-136-1175, U.S. Army Research Office, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
Authors
Hickey JL; Williams TM
Source
Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, HETA 82-136-1175, 1982 Sep; :1-16
Abstract
Potential hazardous exposure to chemicals used in operating and cleaning the duplicating equipment at the United States Army Research Office (SIC-2752), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina was investigated. Noise levels were also analyzed. The research office requested the study which was performed in March, April, May, and July of 1982. Two employees normally operate the printing equipment. Seven personal and area samples collected in the printing room were assayed for 20 organic chemicals. Up to 0.24 parts per million (ppm) benzene (71432) and 1.34ppm trichloroethylene (79016) were detected. Total dust concentrations in two area samples were 0.35 and 0.56 milligrams per cubic meter. Accumulations of dust on surfaces and use of an open container for disposal of solvent wetted rags were observed. Noise levels ranged from 72 to 89 decibels. The authors conclude that no acute chemical exposure hazard was apparent with current chemicals and handling procedures. During long print runs, operators may be subject to excess noise exposure based on a standard of 85 decibels. Recommendations regarding duplicating facility ventilation, increase of fresh air supply, and housekeeping procedures are provided.
Keywords
NIOSH-Author; NIOSH-Health-Hazard-Evaluation; Hazards-Unconfirmed; Office-workers; Work-practices; Ventilation; Noise-pollution; Region-4; HETA-82-136-1175; NIOSH-Technical-Assistance-Report;
Author Keywords: Commercial Printing, Lithographic; Offset Duplication, Methylene Chloride; Tetrachloroethylene; Benzene; Trichloroethylene; Office Building; Noise
Document Type
Field Studies; Hazard Evaluation and Technical Assistance
NTIS Accession No.
PB84-150259
Identifying No.
HETA-82-136-1175
Source Name
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
