Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 89-222-2098, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY

摘要

In response to a request from a representative of the United Auto Workers Union,Local 2300, an investigation was undertaken of possible hazardous working conditions at the University book binding room and printing shop (SIC-2752) at Cornell University. The printing room has three to six full time employees. The ventilation consisted of an air conditioning unit which only recirculates conditioned room air. Air filters on the unit were changed annually. A dehumidification system was associated with the air conditioning unit. The drip pan associated with the unit had standing stagnant condensate. A thermoplastic adhesive containing petroleum (8002059) wax was used in the book binding process. Air sampling in the book binder room indicated nondetectable airborne paraffin (8002742) wax or organic solvents. Air sampling at the print shop indicated measurable concentrations of hydrocarbon solvents at about one third the permissible level. Based on these results it was concluded that a health hazard did not exist from employee exposure to paraffin wax fumes or petroleum solvents. Recommendations were made to further reduce employee exposures to these agents.