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Health hazard evaluation report: HETA-97-0048-2641, Cowlitz County Health Department, Longview, Washington.

Authors
Boudreau Y; Perkner J
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 97-0048-2641, 1997 Jul; :1-19
Link
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/1997-0048-2641.pdf
NIOSHTIC No.
00239441
Abstract
In response to a request from the Service Employees International Union, a health hazard evaluation was performed at the former Cowlitz County Health Department Building (CCHDB) (SIC-9431) in Longview, Washington. Concern was voiced over employee reports of upper respiratory problems, aches and pains in joints and muscles, and skin rashes, perhaps related to toxins and molds in the building. After an inspection by the Washington State Department of Health revealed the presence of fungi including Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, and Penicillium, the building was evacuated. Twenty nine of the 341 current employees and eight former employees participated in medical interviews and responded to a symptoms questionnaire. Employees reported a decrease in all symptoms after leaving the CCHDB. There was a statistically significant decreased prevalence in most symptoms after leaving the old building. The authors recommend that the new building be inspected once renovations are complete. Employees should see their personal physician for health concerns and should inform that person of any problems they feel may be work related.
Keywords
NIOSH-Author; NIOSH-Health-Hazard-Evaluation; NIOSH-Technical-Assistance-Report; HETA-97-0048-2641; Hazard-Unconfirmed; Region-10; Indoor-air-pollution; Office-workers; Respiratory-system-disorders; Musculoskeletal-system-disorders; Indoor-environmental-quality; IEQ; Author Keywords: Administration of Public Health Programs; molds; fungi; Stachybotrys; indoor environmental quality; mycotoxins
Publication Date
19970701
Document Type
Field Studies; Hazard Evaluation and Technical Assistance
Fiscal Year
1997
NTIS Accession No.
PB98-115900
NTIS Price
A03
Identifying No.
HETA-97-0048-2641
NIOSH Division
DSHEFS
SIC Code
9431
Source Name
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
State
WA; OH
Page last reviewed: March 4, 2022
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Education and Information Division