Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 86-038-1807, Morris Bean and Company, Yellow Springs, Ohio

摘要

In response to a request from Local 6931 of the United Steel Workers of America, worker exposures to alumino-silicate ceramic fibers from Fiberfrax insulation at Morris Bean and Company (SIC-3361), Yellow Springs, Ohio were evaluated. Personal breathing zone samples showed ceramic fiber concentrations of 0.03 to 0.18 fibers per cubic centimeter (f/cc). Five area air samples averaged 0.40f/cc, ranging from 0.06 to 0.75f/cc. The sand reclamation area had the two highest air concentrations of 0.48 and 0.75f/cc; there was a malfunction in the equipment, allowing the fibers to escape through worn seals. Most of the fibers were of respirable size. Cristobalite was not found in any sample. Health effects noted on interview with the workers who handled the Fiberfrax material consisted only of mild skin and face irritation. Fiber concentration levels were well below those regarded by NIOSH as hazardous for other types of fibrous materials. The author concludes that insufficient data are available to determine the toxicity of ceramic fibers, but because of indications of possible carcinogenicity, exposure should be minimized.