Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 92-0316-2339, Washington Metropolitan AreaTransit Authority, Washington, DC

摘要

In response to a management request, an evaluation was conducted of recurringsymptoms in workers in the communications room at the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (SIC-4111), Washington, DC. Workers in the communications room had reported eye, throat, and upper respiratory tract irritation. Carbon-dioxide (124389) levels ranged from 375 to 510 parts per million (ppm) throughout the sampling period. A number of deficiencies were noted in the ventilation system. Methylene-chloride (75092) was detected as a trace contaminant of a contact cleaner used on a daily basis. In a follow up evaluation of electric and magnetic fields, one area of concern was near the transformers and the Data Service Units. Magnetic field measurements ranged from 0.1 to 3000 milligauss. No specific health hazard was identified, however, the authors recommend that improvements be made in indoor environment, including balancing the ventilation system, improving lighting and further examining the presence of methylene-chloride.