Industrial Hygiene Walk-Through Survey Report of Dow Chemical USA, Texas Division, Freeport, Texas

摘要

A walk through survey at Dow Chemical USA (SIC-2869) was conducted in June, 1984. The purpose of the survey was to obtain information on the 1,3-butadiene (106990) monomer manufacturing process and to assess the potential for exposure to 1,3-butadiene. The company medical and safety programs and recent 1,3-butadiene monitoring data were reviewed. The company manufactured 1,3-butadiene by the ethylene coproduct process using acetonitrile as the solvent for extractive distillation. The production process was enclosed. The process line included on line gas chromatographs for quality control analysis. Manual samples of the feed, intermediates, and products were also taken. The company conducted preemployment and biannual physicals for all employees. Blood counts in employees involved in loading 1,3-butadiene were monitored. Safety audits were conducted by the safety department. Required personal protective equipment included fire retardant clothing, safety glasses with side shields, hard hats, and respirators. Accurate personnel records on all current and past employees were maintained. Company monitoring data showed time weighted average 1,3-butadiene exposures of 3.5 parts per million. The author notes that there is a potential for worker exposure in the sampling and analytical activities in the process line.