Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 83-159-1473, Seamless Hospital Products Company, Fayette, Alabama

摘要

On February 18, 1983, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) received a request for a Health Hazard Evaluation from the United Rubber Workers International Union at the Seamless Hospital Products Co. plastics facility in Fayette, Alabama, to evaluate possible high incidences of cancer and miscarriages among the female employees. An on-site survey at the facility conducted November 9 and 10, 1983 consisted of medical evaluation of pregnancy outcomes (through interviews and questionnaires) and assay of airborne dust, organic solvents, ethylene oxide, and nitrosamines. On the basis of preliminary epidemiological analysis, there does not appear to be evidence of an elevated rate of miscarriage in the female workers in this plant or any unusual cluster of certain types of cancer. It is recommended that ventilation be increased in the injection molding and extrusion areas; that suitable table top dispensers and bulk containers be used for solvents in the assembly area; and that exposure to ethylene oxide be reduced in the sterilizer/storage areas.