Control technology assessment for coal gasification and liquefaction processes, Coal Gasification Facility, Caterpillar Tractor Company, York, Pennsylvania.
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, ECTB 119-22a, 1982 Mar; :1-69
Abstract
A control technology survey was conducted at the coal gasification facility of the Caterpillar Tractor Company (SIC-5161), in York, Pennsylvania on August 18, 1980 and May 7, 1981, in conjunction with an industrial hygiene characterization study. Potential hazards included coal dust, noise, fire, carbon-monoxide (630080) (CO), polynuclear aromatics, hydrogen sulfide (7783064), phenols, and flammable and explosive gases. Preemployment physicals were given to employees including complete medical histories, physical examinations, and skin examination. Examinations were given annually for the first 5 years and semiannually thereafter. The most hazardous activities were poking, cleaning, inspection of process equipment, and equipment maintenance. Coal dust emissions were effectively reduced by enclosure and venting. Venturi steam injectors in the gasifier poke holes prevented gas emissions during poking. Ash dust was controlled by removal and handling while it was wet. An audible and visual alarm was used for CO monitoring. The ventilation system in the building effectively prevented accumulation of gases. The author recommends separate lockers for contaminated and clean clothing; a clean area for eating; escape pack respirators located in the rectifier room, control room, and coal bunker; and supplied air respirators in dangerous areas. Disposal of off gas from the feeding system should be addressed.
Keywords
NIOSH-Author; NIOSH-Survey; NIOSH-Contract; Control-technology; Field-Study; Coal-gasification; Fuel-production; Explosive-gases; Flammable-liquids; Corrosive-materials; Health-programs; Safety-equipment; Region-3
CAS No.
630-08-0; 7783-06-4
Document Type
Field Studies; Control Technology
NTIS Accession No.
PB84-183995
Identifying No.
ECTB-119-22a; Contract-210-78-0084
Priority Area
Control-technology
Source Name
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Performing Organization
Enviro Control, Rockville, Maryland
