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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Industrial hygiene survey report of Seattle Metro, Ryerson Base, Seattle, Washington, September 12-14, 1989

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5479601

In an effort to evaluate worker exposure, personal protective equipment and engineering controls during the refueling, repairing, and operating methanol (67561) powered transit buses, a visit was made to the Seattle Metro Ryerson Base (SIC-4111) located in Seattle, Washington. The worst case 8 hour time weighted average was estimated to be only 5 parts per million (ppm). Instantaneous measurements occasionally indicated concentrations up to 2200ppm while draining fuel lines and up to 1400ppm during refueling. No quantifiable methanol vapors were found in the passenger compartment of an operating bus nor were any combustion products detected except in the immediate exhaust stream. Improvements in personal protection and work practices were suggested which included the regular wearing of safety goggles and impermeable elbow length gloves when fueling or opening fuel lines, modifying work practices, regular inspection and immediate repair of fuel line fittings, utilizing engineering controls which minimize the release of methanol liquid or vapors, and developing a plan of action between all responsible parties and providing the appropriate training in the event of a methanol spill or fire.

Research Organization:
National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (United States). Div. of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluation and Field Studies
OSTI ID:
5479601
Report Number(s):
PB-91-189019/XAB; IWS--163-2-01
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English