Control Technology Assessment for Coal Gasification and Liquefaction Processes, H-Coal Pilot Plant, Ashland Synthetic Fuels, Inc., Catlettsburg, Kentucky, 1981

摘要

A control technology survey was conducted at the H-Coal Pilot Facility, Ashland Synthetic Fuels, Incorporated (SIC-5161) in Catlettsburg, Kentucky on July 27 and 28, 1981. The survey was conducted to assess the technologies in use for preventing occupational exposures to hazardous agents in coal conversion operations. The H-Coal process generated coal derived liquids in which exposures to polynuclear aromatics (PNA) were a hazard at most phases. Other hazards were coal dust, fire, noise, aromatic amines, ammonia (7664417), hydrogen-sulfide (7783064), phenols, benzene (71432), toluene (108883), xylene (1330207), and hydrocarbons. Regular industrial monitoring for potential contaminants was performed by the company in conjunction with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and a biological monitoring study was conducted by the University of Kentucky. Employees were trained in fire procedures and in the use of fire and respiration equipment. Annual physical examinations were provided. Personal hygiene, protective clothing and equipment, clean and dirty areas, and good housekeeping were effectively incorporated into the health program. A nurse was also available to monitor skin irritations and other problems. The author concludes that the engineering controls and practices found in the H-Coal facility are exemplary.