Abstract |
Worker exposures to methyl-butyl-ketone (591786) (MBK), methyl-isobutyl-ketone (108101) (MIBK), methyl-ethyl-ketone (78933) (MEK), xylene (1330207), toluene (108883), butanol (71363), isopropanol (67630), diacetone-alcohol (123422), and methylene-chloride (75092) were surveyed on October 17, 24, and 25, and November 13 to December 11, 1973, at Premium Finishes, Inc. (SIC-2851) in Cincinnati, Ohio. The incidence of peripheral neuropathy among the 18 employees also was investigated. General area, personal air, and bulk samples were analyzed. Workers completed health questionnaires and underwent neurologic examinations. MBK exposures to the roller mill operator exceeded the OSHA standard of 410 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/cu m), and mixed vapor exposures exceeded the 1.0mg/cu m standard. All samples for MIBK, MEK, zylene, toluene, butanol, isopropanol, diacetone-alcohol, and methylene-chloride were below OSHA standards of 410, 590, 435, 750, 300, 980, 240, and 1750mg/cu m, respectively. Bulk samples did not contain detectable amounts of tri-ortho-cresyl phosphate (78308) or acrylamides. Neurological abnormalities in two workers were possibly related to MBK exposure. Local exhaust fans were undersized and did not provide adequate air circulation. The authors conclude that a potential hazard exists due to organic vapor exposure, and that MBK exposure may be related to subclinical neurologic disease. They recommend implementation of medical surveillance and industrial hygiene programs, improvement of exhaust ventilation, use of protective gloves and moisture creams for the skin, and isolation of eating areas. |