Health Hazard Evaluation Report No. HE-80-67-749 at Firestone Fire and Rubber Company, Akron, Ohio

摘要

Environmental air samples were analyzed for the presence of volatilized N-nitrosamines at the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company (SIC-3011) in Akron, Ohio, on April 2, 1980. A representative of the United Rubber Workers Local 7 requested a survey on behalf of 1,550 affected workers. Volatile N-nitrosomorpholine (59892), N-nitrosodimethylamine (62759), and N-nitrosodiethylamine (55185) were detected in samples collected during the survey. Nitrosamine concentrations were highest during the extrusion process of racing tire components. N-Nitrosomorpholine was detected at 1.62 micrograms per cubic meter (micrograms/cu m), N-nitrosodimethylamine was detected at 1.02 micrograms/cu m, and N-nitrosodiethylamine was detected at 0.48 micrograms/cu m. The average concentration for all N-nitro compounds was 0.25 micrograms/cu m. The author concludes that while no recommended standard exists for airborne nitrosamine exposure, their potent carcinogenicity dictates that exposure to nitrosamines be kept to a minimum. He recommends worker education, improvements in ventilation and chemical substitution.