Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 83-132-1508, Grand Gulf Nuclear Power Plant, Port Gibson, Mississippi

摘要

Environmental and breathing zone samples were analyzed for respirable free silica (7631869) at Grand Gulf Nuclear Power Facility (SIC-1721), Port Gibson, Mississippi, in February, 1983. The evaluation was requested by the local union after painters complained of chest pain, dizziness, and nausea while spray painting in areas without adequate ventilation. Medical interviews were conducted and work practices were observed. In a followup survey, the effectiveness of a water spray system to reduce silica dust exposure and the resistance of rubber gloves worn by painters to penetration by methylene-dianiline (101779) when applying epoxy resin surfaces were evaluated. The authors conclude that a health hazard from silica containing dusts exists. The gloves worn by painters were unsuitable for applying preparations containing methylene-dianiline. Recommendations include using respiratory protection and cotton inner gloves inside the outer gloves.