Health hazard evaluation report: HETA-95-0092-2545, Kaiser Aluminum, Mead, Washington.
Authors
Daniels-W; Kang-D
Source
Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, HETA 95-0092-2545, 1995 Dec; :1-43
Abstract
In response to a request from a representative of the United Steelworkers of America, Local 329, an investigation was begun into possible hazardous working conditions at Kaiser Aluminum (SIC-3334), Mead, Washington. Concern was expressed that since the introduction of spent activated alumina (RALF) at the site, potroom employees had experienced increased skin rashes and nasal bleeding. About 300 workers were employed in the potroom at this primary aluminum production facility. Personal and area samples were collected in the potroom, and a medical survey was conducted. The major metallic component in six bulk RALF samples was aluminum (7429905) ranging in concentration from 27.4 to 33.4% by weight. Long term personal breathing zone samples were taken, but no substantial difference was noted in airborne potroom emissions with or without the use of RALF. Medical survey findings were not conclusive regarding any increased skin problems experienced by employees using RALF. The authors conclude that no substantial difference was found in airborne potroom emissions when RALF was used. The authors recommend that ongoing environmental and medical monitoring be used to reduce the potential for adverse health effects from exposure to the potroom emissions.
Keywords
NIOSH-Author; NIOSH-Health-Hazard-Evaluation; NIOSH-Technical-Assistance-Report; HETA-95-0092-2545; Region-10; Hazard-Confirmed; Aluminum-foundries; Aluminum-industry; Air-quality-monitoring; Air-sampling; Skin-irritants;
Document Type
Field Studies; Hazard Evaluation and Technical Assistance
NTIS Accession No.
PB96-209697
Identifying No.
HETA-95-0092-2545
Source Name
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
