Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 88-299-2028, Louie Glass Factory, Weston,West Virginia

摘要

In response to a request from management an investigation was made of possiblehazardous conditions at the Louie Glass Factory (SIC-3229), Weston, West Virginia. The company was the largest manufacturer of handmade glass in the United States, shipping about 6 million pieces of handmade crystal annually. The heart of the operation was a large furnace which melted batches of uniquely blended raw materials selected to enhance the glass crystal products. Optical radiation measurements were made in the furnace room under normal work conditions over several shifts. The maximum levels of far ultraviolet, near ultraviolet, visible and infrared radiation were nondetectable, 8 microwatts per square centimeter (cm2), 0.93 candela/cm2, and 173 milliwatts per square centimeter (cm2), respectively. Only the infrared radiation levels exceeded the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists guideline (10 milliwatts/cm2). Heat stress measurements ranged from 61 to 116 degrees-F near the furnace. Employees indicated shortness of breath, heat sickness, burns, cuts, eye injuries, dry eyes, itchy nose, and ergonomic problems. The authors conclude that that under certain conditions the workers would be exposed to excessive levels of infrared radiation from both the furnace and certain glass making procedures. The authors recommend specific measures to reduce these exposures, including the use of personal protective equipment.