Industrial Hygiene Survey of Coplay Cement Co., Nazareth, Pennsylvania. Cement Workers Morbidity Study

摘要

A survey was conducted at the Coplay Cement Company, Nazareth, Pennsylvania as part of a study of the effects of materials found in Portland Cement facilities on the human respiratory system. Personal and area samples were collected and analyzed for total and respirable dust, quartz (14808607), trace elements, and toxic gases. For most of the jobs at this site the respirable and total dust levels were below recommended exposure limits. The ACGIH recommended level of 5mg/cubic m for respirable nuisance particulates was exceeded in four samples. Quartz was detected in 18 personal respirable dust samples, with six of these exceeding the MSHA-PEL levels. Exposure to quartz occurred primarily in the quarry and in areas associated with the raw materials and coal. The authors recommend that measures be taken to reduce exposures, including the increased use of personal protective equipment in the areas with raw material and coal exposures.