Control Technology for New Plastics Processes at Ford Motor Company, Saline Instrument and Plastics Plant, Saline, Michigan

摘要

A walk through survey of the instrument panel molding operations at the Ford Motor Company (SIC-3711), Saline, Michigan was conducted to familiarize investigators with the reaction injection molding process, to understand the potential of the operations for exposure to air contaminants, and to observe control measures employed. The major hazard associated with the process was to isocyanates, specifically, diphenylmethane-diisocyanate (101688) (MDI). NIOSH recommended ceiling concentrations for MDI were 20 parts per billion (ppb) with an 8 hour time weighted average of 5ppb. An exposure standard of 2ppb was maintained by the company. Other potential exposures included mold release agents. The process was a closed system. Fresh makeup air was supplied to all work areas. An effective system was developed for potential exposures due to system malfunction. The author concludes that evaluation of the working environment using an improved sampling and analysis technique for total isocyanates should be considered.