Health Hazard Evaluation Determination Report No. HE 79-31-699, University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, Mauna Loa Observatory, Hilo, Hawaii 96720

摘要

An environmental survey was conducted from September 24 to 26, 1979 at the Mauna Loa Observatory, Hawaii (SIC-8922). An authorized employer representative requested the evaluation to determine whether solar observers and engineers working at the observatory were exposed to toxic chemicals emanating from the Mauna Loa volcano five miles away. Personal breathing zone and area air samples were collected to measure concentrations of methyl chloride (74873), methyl iodide (74884), inorganic mercury (7439976), sulfur dioxide (7446095), hydrogen sulfide (7783064), and selenium (7782492) and other metals in the telescope control room and telescope room. Airborne concentrations of methyl iodide, mercury, sulfuric acid, trace metals and hydrogen sulfide were below the limits of detection. Airborne concentrations of methyl chloride ranged from 0.02 to 0.08 parts per million (ppm) and were well below the OSHA standard of 100ppm as an 8 hour time weighted average (TWA). Sulfur dioxide concentrations ranging from 0.30 to 0.05ppm were all below or equal to NIOSH recommended criterion of 0.50ppm. The authors conclude that no hazard existed from exposure to any of the compounds.