Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA-80-073-1589, Marion Power Shovel, Marion, Ohio. [Core and mold areas (MDI binders)]

Technical Report · Sun Mar 31 23:00:00 EST 1985

OSTI ID:6065169

Stephenson, R L; Liss, G M

Environmental and breathing-zone samples were analyzed for methylene-bisphenyl-isocyanate (MDI), total reactive isocyanate groups (TRIG), triethylamine, mineral spirits, and metal fume at Marion Power Shovel Foundry, Marion, Ohio, in March and September, 1983. The evaluation was requested by the union to assess exposures in the core and mold areas where MDI binders were used. Interviews were conducted with 26 exposed and 13 nonexposed workers. Medical examinations that included pulmonary function and immunological testing, and chest x-rays were administered. All exposures were below the OSHA standards for TRIG. Previously obtained silica monitoring data was reviewed. Silica overexposure was indicated. Twenty-seven exposed workers reported lower respiratory tract symptoms consistent with occupational asthma. The authors conclude that significant exposures to isocyanates have occurred at the facility. A health hazard due to silica also exists. Recommendations include establishing a medical surveillance program for MDI and reducing silica exposures by appropriate engineering controls.

• Research Organization: National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6065169
• Report Number(s): PB-86-138278/XAB; HETA-80-073-1589
• 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
AEROSOLS
AIR POLLUTION
AMINES
BINDERS
COLLOIDS
DISPERSIONS
FABRICATION
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
INDUSTRIAL MEDICINE
INSPECTION
ISOCYANATES
JOINING
MATERIALS
MEDICINE
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
POLLUTION
SAFETY
SOLS
TOXICITY
VENTILATION
WELDING