Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 87-370-1973, Native Textiles, Glenn Falls, New York

摘要

A study was made of possible hazardous working conditions at Native Textiles (SIC-2241), Glens Falls, New York. The company manufactured lace, tricot, and specialty fabrics and employed about 400 prople. Possible exposure to a melamine/formaldehyde resin existed when the lace was passed through this mixture to provide durability and body. Following accelerated polymerization, the lace was divided into individual strands by a thread drawing machine. During the processing by this machine a fine dust containing the polymerized resin was generated. The dust covered the arms and clothing of the workers. Ten of 17 air samples tested for formaldehyde (50000) were above 0.1 part per million (ppm) levels and the total and respirable dust levels were between 0.1 and 0.2mg/m3. In the finishing area low levels of 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556) and traces of toluene (108883), xylene (1330207), and various alkyl substituted benzenes were measured. Workers suffered irritation of the upper respiratory tract, skin and eyes. A hazard existed from exposure to dust from thread drawing and spooling of resin coated lace; formaldehyde levels above 0.1ppm may have increase the irritative effects of dust exposures. Improvement in the ventilation system, use of a resin system which contains less formaldehyde, issuance of protective clothing and equipment, and the option of reassignment for particularly sensitive employees are recommended.