Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 83-301-1478, Lion Uniform Company, Beattyville, Kentucky

摘要

Bulk samples were analyzed for formaldehyde (50000) and acetophenone (98862) at Lion Uniform Company (SIC-2328), Beattyville, Kentucky in 1983. The evaluation was requested by the Kentucky Department of Labor due to the occurrence of dermatitis among employees at the facility. Medical interviews were conducted with 9 of 13 employees who had reported symptoms. Questionnaires were administered to all 13 employees. Industrial hygiene air monitoring data for formaldehyde obtained by the Kentucky Department of Labor was reviewed. The authors conclude that formaldehyde exposures at the facility could cause the observed symptoms. Acetophenone exposure also may have contributed to the symptoms, although little is known about its toxicity. Recommendations include providing exhaust ventilation, increasing the outside air component in the general ventilation system, cooperating with textile mills to obtain fabrics with minimal concentrations of latent formaldehyde and acetophenone, and airing the fabrics to allow outgassing of formaldehyde.