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Title: Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 81-369-1591, HETA 81-466-1591, Electric Machinery - McGraw Edison Company, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5897641

Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for amines, aliphatic aldehydes, boron-trifluoride-monoethylamine, epichlorohydrin, total volatile fluorides, formaldehyde, lead, methyl- tetrahydrophthalic-anhydride, and n-butyl-glycidyl-ether at Electric Machinery/McGraw Edison Company, Minneapolis, Minnesota in December, 1981 and February, 1983. The surveys were requested by the union local because of irritative symptoms and respiratory problems reported by employees exposed to epoxy resin compounds and impregnated materials. The authors conclude that mucous membrane irritation and dermatitis are common among workers exposed to epoxy resins. A high prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome was also found. Recommendations include reducing formaldehyde concentrations, using personal protective equipment and barrier creams, and maintaining proper work practices and good personal hygiene to minimize contact with epoxy resin materials.

Research Organization:
National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
OSTI ID:
5897641
Report Number(s):
PB-86-133758/XAB; HETA-81-369-1591
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English