Walk-Through Survey Report on RF Radiation Exposures from Heat Sealers at Wilson Jones Company, 6150 Touhy Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60648

摘要

On June 26, 1979, NIOSH conducted a walk-through survey of the radiofrequency (RF) heat sealing area at the Wilson Jones Company, in Chicago, Illinois. The purpose of the survey was to identify a population of workers which could be used in a study to determine if any health effects are associated with occupational exposures to RF radiation. A potential cohort of workers was identified in the RF heat sealing area of the Binding Division. Electric fields produced by the RF heat sealers were measured to document exposure levels. The electric field strength levels exceeded 200 V/M (duty cycle corrected) on two of five heat sealers evaluated. Confounding exposures were assessed and appear not to be a factor. Personnel record systems were evaluated as to their suitability for use in a study of reproductive histories. The cohort identified could be used in the study of reproductive histories. The cohort identified could be used in the study if combined with similar cohorts from other plants. The Wilson Jones Company is being considered as a possible participant in the NIOSH study.