by Jbs011208 h3 — January 14, 2009—The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has released an article pertaining to asbestos-related mortality, and four new health hazard evaluation (HHE) reports.
- Asbestosis-Related Years of Potential Life Lost before Age 65 Years describes the results of an analysis of trends in premature mortality attributed to asbestosis in the United States, 19682005.
New Health Hazard Evaluations (HHE):
- Potential musculoskeletal hazards at a postal processing and distribution center were evaluated by the HHE Program. Investigators recommended that the shelving in the sorting area be moved to make space for empty containers and that the tray management system conveyor is moved in front of the sorters; both changes would eliminate 180 lifts. Investigators also recommended that the number of workers in the loading and sorting areas be increased to allow for job rotation.
- Contact dermatitis at an automotive parts manufacturing facility was evaluated by the HHE Program. Investigators recommended that machines be cleaned before metal working fluids (MWFs) are added and that machines that leak hydraulic oil be fixed to prevent MWF contamination. Investigators also recommended that MWFs and biocides be replaced with less sensitizing materials. Investigators recommended that a comprehensive MWF maintenance program and personal protective equipment program be implemented.
- The effectiveness of using gaseous chlorine dioxide to kill mold during urban rehabilitation projects was evaluated by the HHE Program. Investigators recommended that additional clean-up techniques, such as the use of high efficiency particle air filter vacuums, be used to reduce concentrations of spores and microbial components before re-occupancy is permitted in previously contaminated structures.
- Respiratory and dermal conditions at an aluminum wheel production facility were evaluated by the HHE Program. Investigators recommended that the facility conduct environmental monitoring for metal working fluids (MWFs) and install local exhaust ventilation to machines using MWFs. Investigators also recommended that personal protective equipment and training be provided to employees who work with MWFs.
