Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 89-318-2273, Peoples Gas Light and CokeCompany, Chicago, Illinois

摘要

In response to a request from the Gas Workers Union Local 18007, an investigationwas undertaken of possible exposure of workers to methyl-ethyl-ketone (78933) (MEK) and 4,4' -dimethylmethane-diisocyanate (101688) (MDI) in compounds used to encapsulate joints in underground natural gas mains at the Peoples Gas Light and Coke Company (SIC-4932), Chicago, Illinois. Air sampling was conducted above and below road level for MEK, MDI, and MDI polyisocyanate. MEK detected below road level ranged from none to 126.4 parts per million (ppm). MEK exposures above road level ranged from less than 0.3ppm to 2.0ppm. Area air samples contained MEK at levels of 12.7 to 511.8ppm. Two area air samples for MDI and MDI polyisocyanate were collected at each application site. No MDI or MDI polyisocyanate was detected in any of the samples. Of the 21 employees interviewed, 12 reported eye, nose and throat irritation while using the paint primer. None of those interviewed indicated that he had been fit tested or properly trained to wear respiratory equipment. The latex gloves provided were not adequate to protect the workers from skin exposure to the liquid chemicals in the system. The authors conclude that a potential health hazard existed during the installation of the encapsulation systems below road level. The authors recommend that measures be taken to reduce respiratory and dermal exposures.