Health hazard evaluation report HETA 85-039-1723, E. L. Smithe Machine Company, Duncansville, Pennsylvania

Technical Report · Fri Aug 01 00:00:00 EDT 1986

OSTI ID:6504150

Bennett, D E

The International Association of Machinists Local 2348 requested an investigation of reported skin rashes and headaches associated with cutting and cooling oils and solvents used in the machine shop. Of 62 employees interviewed, 42 had experienced skin problems occurring on their hands and arms including red skin, dry skin, cracked skin, or itchy skin, related to chemical exposures at the workplace. Xerosis, lichenification, or eczema of the hands and arms were noted on examination of 17 employees of the Lathe Department and 18 of those from the Milling Department. Respiratory and neurological complaints were also found among these employees. The author concluded that the incidence of hand and arm xerosis and eczema in workers in the machining area may be associated with exposure to cutting oils. The author recommends that changes be made to minimize skin exposure and provide adequate ventilation and humidification.

• Research Organization: National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6504150
• Report Number(s): PB-87-163234/XAB; HETA-85-039-1723
• 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
CUTTING FLUIDS
DERMATITIS
DISEASES
FLUIDS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HAZARDS
HEALTH HAZARDS
INDOOR AIR POLLUTION
INDUSTRIAL MEDICINE
INDUSTRY
INSPECTION
MACHINING
MATERIALS
MEDICINE
METAL INDUSTRY
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
POLLUTION
SAFETY
SKIN DISEASES
SOLVENTS
TOXICITY
VENTILATION