Healthhazard evaluation report HETA 84-075-1634, Hydra-Matic Division of General Motors, Ypsilanti, Michigan

Technical Report · Fri Nov 01 00:00:00 EST 1985

OSTI ID:5580351

Daniels, W J; Orris, P

Environmental and breathing-zone samples were analyzed for total particulates, trace metals, glycol ethers, and other organic materials at Hydra/Matic, a division of General Motors, in Ypsilanti, Michigan in March, 1984 and March, 1985. The evaluation was requested confidentially to investigate employee exposures to machine coolants and additives used in the centerless grinding operation. The central coolant system had been contaminated by sewage and high concentrations of chemicals had reportedly been added to the system to prevent bacterial growth. Questionnaire interviews were conducted with 75 employees. Eye irritation, sinus congestion, rhinitis, daily cough, upper respiratory infections, and skin complaints such as frequent dryness, itching, rash, and pimples were reported. All concentrations of chemical agents were below their relevant standards or not detectable. The authors note that no airborne contaminant that would pose a health hazard has been identified. Recommendations include properly maintaining the coolant system and individual machines, training employees in proper work practices for use with cutting fluids, and making barrier creams and protective clothing available.

• Research Organization: National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
• OSTI ID: 5580351
• Report Number(s): PB-86-202900/XAB; HETA-84-075-1634
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS//MATHEMATICS, COMPUTING, AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
COOLANTS
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
SOLVENTS
INDUSTRIAL MEDICINE
INSPECTION
METALS
PARTICULATES
TOXICITY
TRACE AMOUNTS
AIR POLLUTION
ELEMENTS
INDUSTRY
MATERIALS
MEDICINE
PARTICLES
POLLUTION
SAFETY
500200* - Environment
Atmospheric- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport- (-1989)
552000 - Public Health