Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 84-458-1733, HETA 84-489-1733, Schlegel, Incorporated, Rochester, New York

摘要

Possible exposure to substances used in the making of urethane foam seals and synthetic bristle brushes was investigated at Schlegel, Inc., Rochester, New York, in response to a request by employees. An environmental survey was conducted in the Polyurethane Department and the Spiral Wind Department, and 62 workers took part in a medical survey. Medical examination revealed that two nonsmoking workers in the Polyurethane Department had an obstructive pulmonary function test pattern, which may be indicative of overexposure to toluene-diisocyanate. The authors conclude that there may have been a hazard from methylene-chloride exposure in the Polyurethane Department. Overexposures were not found in the Spiral Wind Department, although at the time of the study, the workforce in the Spiral Wind Department had been reduced from 21 to three workers. The authors recommend changes in engineering, medical, educational and personal protection practices to reduce exposures.