In-depth industrial hygiene survey report of the Arrow Shirt Company, Atlanta, Georgia, report no. IWS-125-12.
Abstract
A survey of techniques to control occupational exposure to formaldehyde (50000), organic solvents, dust, and noise was conducted at the Arrow Shirt Company (SIC-2321), Atlanta, Georgia, in March and April 1981. Local exhaust ventilation was used to control the concentration of dust and solvents. There were no control methods for formaldehyde as it was expected that formaldehyde concentrations would not be high. Potential formaldehyde exposure resulted from free formaldehyde being released by fabrics that had been treated with formaldehyde based resins. The measured concentrations of formaldehyde, organic solvents, and dust samples were below all relevant OSHA and NIOSH standards. Noise levels were also below the OSHA standard in effect at the time. The authors concluded that although no health hazard was shown to exist, the measurements were taken at one point in time and may not reflect long term exposure. Formaldehyde concentrations can be affected by temperature and humidity changes, type of fabric or resin, and by the quantity of stored materials and finished work. Periodic monitoring to determine average and peak formaldehyde concentrations in the pressing, fabric, assembly, and heat set collar areas should be conducted.
