Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 94-0405-2551, Metropolitan St. Louis SewerDistrict, Lemay Wastewater Treatment Plant, St. Louis, Missouri

摘要

In response to a request from the employer and employee representatives of theMetropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, Lemay wastewater treatment facility (SIC-4952), a health hazard investigation was begun. Workers reported headaches, burning sensation to the nose, loss of breath, sore throat, eye irritation, nausea, and diarrhea. There are 101 employees at the site. The maximum hydrogen-sulfide (7783064) concentrations in the personal breathing zone air samples ranged from nondetectable to 20 parts per million (ppm). Only one sample from a maintenance mechanic, which contained 20ppm, exceeded the NIOSH recommended exposure limit ceiling value of 10ppm. Endotoxin concentrations ranged from 1.08 to 5.51 units per cubic meter of air in the personal breathing zone air samples. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified in general area air samples at levels up to 0.40ppm; all concentrations were considered to be quite low. Incinerator ash was found under the incinerators and on the lower floors of the incinerator area.