Preliminary survey report: Steelcase, Incorporated, Grand Rapids, Michigan, September 23, 1981

Technical Report · Tue Feb 02 00:00:00 EST 1982

OSTI ID:6085103

Martinez, K F

An on-site visit was made to Steelcase, Incorporated, Grand Rapids, Michigan for the purpose of observing the processes involving adhesives, emphasizing the method of application and methods of controlling exposures to workers. Initial investigations focused on the use of adhesives in the manufacture of partitioning panels, chairs, and desks. Each process involved the spraying of solvent-borne contact adhesives, both flammable and nonflammable. Solvent-vapor concentrations were adequately controlled through the use of ventilation booths. The spray guns were interlocked with the ventilation system. These booths were designed primarily to control the fire hazard present in using a flammable adhesive. There were some applications that are too large and must be carried on outside the booth. Personal protective equipment was not required for every worker but was available if requested. Most employees wore safety shoes and safety glasses. Gloves were worn by those working with adhesives. A preemployment physical was a requirement and periodic examinations were given to those workers who function in a hazardous environment. The author concludes that this company would be a strong candidate for an in-depth survey if the furniture industry is selected for a detailed study.

• Research Organization: National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6085103
• Report Number(s): PB-89-137806/XAB; ECTB-108-15A
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS//MATHEMATICS, COMPUTING, AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
ADHESIVES
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
FURNITURE INDUSTRY
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
SOLVENTS
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE
CONTROL EQUIPMENT
INDUSTRIAL PLANTS
SAFETY ENGINEERING
SPRAYED COATINGS
VAPORS
AIR POLLUTION
COATINGS
ENGINEERING
EQUIPMENT
FLUIDS
GASES
INDUSTRY
MATERIALS
POLLUTION
WOOD PRODUCTS INDUSTRY
500200* - Environment
Atmospheric- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport- (-1989)
552000 - Public Health