Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 93-0739-2364, Curcio Scrap Metal, Cirello Iron and Steel, Saddle Brook, New Jersey

摘要

In response to a request from the New Jersey Department of Health, an investigation was begun into possible exposures to lead (7439921) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from contaminated soil at Curcio Scrap Metal and Cirello Iron and Steel (SIC-5093), Saddle Brook, New Jersey. The concentrations of lead found in the blood of workers ranged from 4 to 39.8 micrograms per deciliter (microg/dl). Levels of PCBs ranged from less than one to 65.3 parts per billion (ppb) with a mean of 7.5ppb. No significant differences were found in the blood lead levels or serum PCB levels of workers for each of the two companies. There was an increase in blood lead levels in direct relation to the number of cigarettes smoked on the job. Increased PCB levels were associated with eating lunch in the work area. The author recommends that continued measurements be taken and that work practices be improved.