Health Hazard Evaluation Report No. HHE-80-104-101, MSHA Mine I.D. No. 11-02632, Freeman Coal Company, Farmersville, Illinois

摘要

Worker exposures to asbestos (1332214) were surveyed at Freeman Coal Company, Crown III mine, Coal Prepartion facility (SIC-5052) in Farmersville, Illinois on February 19, 1980. The evaluation was requested by an authorized representative of the United Mine Workers of America on behalf of the construction company under contract to build the coal preparation facility. Personal breathing zone samples were collected from seven employees involved in installing flat Transite as a firewall. General area samples were collected at various areas in the worksite, and bulk samples of dust and the Transite board also were collected. All personal breathing zone samples were below the Mine Safety and Health Administration Standard of 2.0 fibers per cubic centimeter, but 20 percent of the samples exceeded the NIOSH standard of 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter. Breathing zone and bulk samples contained chrysotile (12001295) asbestos. Workers used respirators and safety glasses and shoes, but disposable clothing was not used, and general personal hygiene was not strictly practiced at lunch time or during smoking breaks. The authors conclude that an asbestos dust hazard may exist at the facility. They recommend that all exposures to the asbestos board be controlled, proper protective clothing be worn, and medical surveillance be instituted.