Health Hazard Evaluation Determination Report HHE-80-245-1210 (Supplement) Colorado River Indian Reservation, Cotton Gin Study, Colorado River Gin, Poston, Arizona

摘要

Results and conclusions of initial and followup evaluations conducted on one of three cotton gins on the Colorado River Indian Reservation in Poston, Arizona were presented. Cotton dust levels in the Colorado River Gin exceeded the NIOSH and OSHA recommended standards in all but one sample. Pesticide residues were identified in samples of first picked cotton, cotton bolls, trash cotton, seeds, motes, waste/bract cotton, finished cotton, and rafter samples. Levels of nuisance dust ranged from 2.60 to 6.79 mg/cu m. A noise evaluation demonstrated noise levels ranging from 83.8 to 101 decibels-A in different areas of the gin. The equipment was old and in need of repairs, and the housekeeping was found to be very poor. Excessively low cholinesterase levels were not seen in workers. Few symptoms were reported by the workers. Recommendations on improved housekeeping and the use of personal protective devices for respiratory and ear protection were included.