Walk Through Survey Report, Whirlpool Corporation, Marion, Ohio

摘要

Health hazards to workers in painting operations were surveyed at the Whirlpool Corporation (SIC-3633) in Marion, Ohio, on February 1 and 2, 1979. The company was under consideration for inclusion in an in-depth epidemiological, industrial hygiene, and medical study of health hazards associated with the application of paints and coatings. Approximately 140 employees were involved in the paint operations surveyed. The company had a formal safety and industrial hygiene program and employed a full-time environmental engineer. Medical services were provided by four full-time nurses and a part-time physician. Personnel records provided personal, job, and medical absence and leave information. A medical file was maintained in the dispensary and included accident reports, physician's reports, and preemployment physical and interview forms, and a log was kept of each visit to the dispensary. Safety factors and housekeeping were very good. A blue haze was noted in the area of the drying ovens. The authors conclude that a survey could be done to evaluate exposures to solvents, lead, chromates, and other materials in paints and to assess the effectiveness of some of the technology used for environmental control. They recommend evaluation of the haze around the drying ovens.