Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 85-434-1655, Ruan Transport Corporation, Des Moines, Iowa

摘要

Following a request by an employee of the Ruan Transport Corporation (SIC-3573), Des Moines, Iowa, symtoms including watery eyes, headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, sneezing, and coughing among keypunch operators working at video display terminals were investigated. Carbon-monoxide (630080) and carbon-dioxide (124389) samples were taken. Work station design and seating were evaluated. Room lighting was measured. Short medical histories were obtained all 25 keypunch operators. Carbon-monoxide was not detectable in the work area, but a carbon-dioxide concentration of 3000 parts/million was measured. Many employees were observed smoking while entering data. The illumination exceeded 600 LUX in most general work areas even though the survey day was overcast. Air temperatures of 72 degrees-F or higher were measured. Insufficient leg space was found under work tables. Work stations had inadequate adjustments to compensate for individual variations. The night crew had fewer symptoms than the day shift except that 90 percent of night workers reported headaches compared with 75 percent of day workers. The author concludes that improper lighting, work space design, and excessive cigarette smoke may be responsible for the reported symptoms. Reduction of light levels, reduction of smoking, replacement of work station furniture with adjustable models, and improved ventilation are recommended.