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Industrial hygiene walk-through survey report of Denka Chemical Corporation, Houston, Texas.

NIOSH

Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, IWS 147-27, 1986 Apr; :1-21

00159099

A walk through survey was conducted at the Denka Chemical Corporation (SIC-2822), Houston, Texas in July, 1985. The purpose of the survey was to obtain information on the neoprene and tetrahydrophthalic-anhydride (85438) (THPA) production processes and evaluate the potential for exposure to 1,3-butadiene (106990). Bulk samples of THPA and neoprene were analyzed for residual 1,3- butadiene. THPA and neoprene were produced by emulsion polymerization processes utilizing 1,3-butadiene received by pipeline from an adjacent facility. Quality control sampling was performed using open loop sample bombs. Decontamination procedures were more thorough on the THPA line than on the neoprene line. Residual 1,3-butadiene concentrations in bulk neoprene ranged from bulk THPA samples. Company monitoring data showed time weighted average 1,3-butadiene exposures of 0.47 and 4.83 parts per million in the neoprene and THPA production areas, respectively. All employees were given pre placement and annual physical examinations. The company maintained accurate personnel records on all current and past employees. The authors conclude that the facility is suitable for an in depth survey. They recommend that a quality control program for 1,3-butadiene in the THPA area be implemented.

NIOSH-Author; NIOSH-Survey; Field-Study; Chemical-manufacturing-industry; Region-6; Health-survey; Biological-monitoring; Monitoring-systems; Chemical-properties; Toxic-effects; Sampling-methods

85-43-8; 106-99-0

19860401

Field Studies; Industry Wide

1986

PB86-225406

A03

IWS-147-27

DSHEFS

2822

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

TX; OH