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

Technical Report · Fri Nov 01 04:00:00 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

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