Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 91-078-2132, Social Security Administration,San Juan, Puerto Rico

摘要

In response to a request from the American Federation of Government Employees(EFGE) local 2608, a study was undertaken of possible hazardous working conditions at the Social Security Administration, San Juan, Puerto Rico. The request was made in response to employee concerns and health complaints including cold temperatures, dust, asthma, sinus proglems and irritation from tobacco smoke. At the time of the study there were about 70 employees occupying portions of two floors of the 18 story office building. During the study no specific health hazards were identified. However, the results of environmental studies did support employee concerns regarding thermal discomfort. Measurements indicated temperature and humidity combinations falling outside of the accepted limits. High relative humidity was noted on these two floors with humidity ranging from 56 to 71%. The authors conclude that there were no identified health hazards. The authors recommend that efforts be made to correct problems and deficiencies concerning the air distribution system, to restrict smoking to specific areas of the building, to prevent moisture incursion into occupied spaces and within the air handling system, and to clean the particulate build up around the air supply diffusers.