Mercury Control Technology Assessment Study: Olin Chemicals Group, Charleston, Tennessee. Preliminary Survey Report for the Site Visit of July 21, 1981

摘要

An on site visit was made for the purpose of evaluating methods employed to control worker exposure to elemental mercury (7439976) and mercury compounds. Information on the chlor/alkali manufacturing process used at this facility was given to investigators. Seventy five of the 800 employees at the site were involved in processes where mercury was used. Details were provided concerning engineering controls in effect for mercury filling containers, seals, process features which control mercury, mercury removal in product purification, mercury drain troughs and collection buckets, floor grating, floor sealant, and the maintenance program. Personal protective equipment, work practices, biological monitoring programs, air contaminant monitoring programs, and medical programs were also examined. The existing control strategies at the site appeared adequate in maintaining mercury vapor levels below the OSHA requirements. The integrity of process equipment in the chlor/alkali manufacturing process was vital due to the volume of elemental mercury and mercury containing product flows. It is recommended that an in depth study not be conducted at the site as sufficient information on mercury controls was obtained during the preliminary site visit.