Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 91-158-2161, Immaculate Heart of MaryChurch, Cincinnati, Ohio

摘要

In response to a request from a representative of the Immaculate Heart of MaryChurch (SIC-8661), an investigation was made of indoor air quality in the church office. Particular attention was directed toward laser printer and photocopier emissions. Employees had complained of headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, eye irritation, and dry nose and throat. Day shift employees performed general office duties, often using a photocopier and a laser printer. Real time ozone (10028156) concentrations ranged from below the limit of detection (LOD) to 0.05 parts per million (ppm) in the breathing zone, all below the NIOSH limit for short term exposure of 0.10ppm. Ozone concentrations as high as 0.56ppm were detected at the laser printer exhaust. Carbon-dioxide (124389) concentrations ranged from 400 to 850ppm. Respirable dust concentrations ranged from below the LOD to 90 micrograms per cubic meter. Carbon-monoxide (630080) levels were not above the LOD of 5ppm. No volatile organic carbons were detected. Temperature and relative humidity levels were within the guidelines. Some of the symptoms were consistent with ozone exposure. The author concludes that efforts should be made to reduce ozone exposures. The author recommends relocating the laser printer, providing additional outside air to the building, and checking for possible overloading or inefficiency in the ozone filter in the printer.