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

Hazard-evaluation and technical-assistance report HETA 89-139-l2025, TAMCO, Etiwanda, California

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6287030

In response to a request for a health hazard evaluation at TAMCO, Etiwanda, California, an onsite visit was conducted with specific attention directed toward the continuous casting minimill which produced steel reinforcing bar and rod from scrap steel. Twenty workers had full shift air lead levels ranging from less than 3 to 31 micrograms/cubic meter (microg/cu m). All were below the OSHA action level of 30 microg/cu m except one worker who was relining ladels with refractory material. Blood lead levels were below levels known to cause adverse health effects in adults. Levels for other metals were below allowable limits and no health hazard was found to exist. The authors conclude that a health hazard did not exist from exposure to lead. There was a potential cancer risk from exposure to components of welding fumes and melt shop dust. The authors recommend measures to reduce exposures to nickel, arsenic, and cadmium (7440439). These included periodic monitoring of airborne lead and the use of respiratory protective equipment.

Research Organization:
National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
OSTI ID:
6287030
Report Number(s):
PB-91-107912/XAB; HETA--89-139-L2025
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English