Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 92-0285-2355, Indian Industries, Evansville,Indiana

摘要

In response to a request by an employee of Indian Industries (SIC-3949),Evansville, Indiana an investigation was conducted of possible occupational exposures to BZ-123 which contains a mixture of solvents. The facility employed 250 to 400 workers in the manufacture of sporting goods equipment. Interviews were conducted with 17 of the over 300 workers at the production facility and air and hand wipe samples were analyzed for the presence of organic solvents. For paint line operators during cleanup, personal breathing zone concentrations of toluene (108883) ranged from 9.1 to 429.4 parts per million (ppm); for one worker, the short term exposure exceeded the NIOSH exposure limit of 150ppm. Styrene (100425) concentrations ranged from 0.64 to 20.9ppm. Low levels of cadmium (7440439), chromium (7440473), lead (7439921), nickel (7440020), and zinc (7440666) were identified in hand wipe samples. The authors conclude that workers were exposed to potentially hazardous concentrations of organic solvents. The authors recommend that efforts be made to reduce exposures, including improvements in local exhaust ventilation, the implementation of a respiratory protection program, and the use of personal protective equipment.