Formaldehyde Exposure Characterization in Garment Manufacturing Plants: A Composite Summary of Three In-Depth Industrial Hygiene Surveys

摘要

The extent of exposure to formaldehyde (50000) was investigated at three garment manufacturing facilities using fabrics pretreated with a formaldehyde based resin system. Two of the facilities (in Georgia) operated on a two shift basis with approximately 1000 and 500 workers; one facility (in Pennsylvania) operated on a one shift basis and had approximately 600 workers. The facilities cut and sewed men's dress shirts from treated fabric. Measured exposures to formaldehyde, respirable dust, and organic cleaning solvent vapors were all below the applicable American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Threshold Limit Values and Occupational Safety and Health Administration Permissible Exposure Limits.