NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation Report: HETA No. 2000-0098-2862. Robinson Run Mine, Shinnston, West Virginia, 2001

摘要

On December 6, 1999, NIOSH received a confidential health hazard evaluation request regarding possible health effects in workers exposed to Solcenic HL hydraulic fluid at the Robinson Run Mine in Shinnston, West Virginia. Solcenic HL emulsion is used in the closed loop hydraulic system that pressurizes the piston-driven roof supports in the longwall section of the underground coal mine. Solcenic HL is a proprietary formulation of mineral oil, alcohol, poly glycol, inorganic salt, organic acid salt, and a triazine biocide. It is similar in formulation to emulsifiable metal working fluids which have been associated with respiratory disorders, work related asthma, and allergic and irritant skin disorders (NIOSH, 1998a). We conducted telephone and on-site interviews with miners who were concerned that exposures to Solcenic HL emulsion might be putting them at risk for sinusitis, rhinitis, adult onset occupational asthma, and dermatitis, especially during periods of atypical exposure such as when working around large spills. We administered a medical-work history questionnaire on October 18, 19, and 20, 2000. Its purpose was to assess the prevalence of various respiratory and skin disorders and symptoms in relation to possible sources and pathways of exposure, especially to Solcenic HL emulsion. The questionnaire requested demographic data, a brief work history, possible workplace exposures, and included questions designed to identify individuals with sinusitis (nasal), breathing, and dermal (skin) disorders.