Hazard Evaluation and Technical Assistance Report HETA 90-170-L2053, JohnsonJunior High School, Laramie County School District No. 1, Cheyenne, Wyoming

摘要

In response to a request from the Superintendent of Schools in the Laramie CountySchool District Number 1, an investigation was made of possible hazardous exposures to workers at the Johnson Junior High School (SIC-8211), Cheyenne, Wyoming. Teachers began reporting problems in the school shortly after they occupied the building in 1983. The most common problems included runny nose, hoarseness to the point of losing the voice, upper respiratory problems, and eye irritation. Airborne fiberglass (14808607) concentrations were not high, but fiberglass dust was visible on surfaces. The ventilation system was found to be supplying sufficient quantities of air, except in one room. Air in the halls in the new wing was too cold. An inspection of the ventilation system revealed that there was a general deterioration of the fiberglass lining inside the ducts. Emissions generated from the metals shop were not being adequately vented as illustrated by high formaldehyde (50000) levels, smoke emission and odors. Storage of chemicals in the Technical Arts Room lacked proper ventilation to control volatile solvent emissions into the area. The authors recommend that the fiberglass lined ducts should be replaced, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system should be adjusted, water damaged ceiling tiles should be replaced, local exhaust ventilation should be installed in the Metals Shop, and the school system should develop a Hazard Communication Program.