Safety Information Profile: Bleaching Processes Associated with the Textile Industry

摘要

A safety information profile is presented for the textile bleaching industry (Standard Industrial Classification 22). Fire, explosion, and health hazards are described and hazard control measures for bleaching by chemical oxidation, normally using hydrogen perioxide (7722481) and infrequently using sodium chlorite (7758192) and sodium hypochlorite (7681529), are reviewed. Occupational accident and illness statistics are tabulated and industry trends and existing standards are discussed. Names and addresses of industry associations, unions, companies, and other interested parties are given. It is concluded that industry injury rates probably are not excessive, injury rate data for the textile bleaching process should be collected and reviewed, and federal regulations for control of bleaching process occupational hazards are inadequate. Federal adoption of industrial association guidelines for the control of hydrogen peroxide hazards is recommended.