| Abstract |
Worker exposures to asbestos (1332214), fibrous glass (14808607) and free silica (7631869) were determined, and sound level and ventilation measurements were taken at the General Electric Appliance Park (SIC-3296), in Louisville, Kentucky, on November 8 and 9, 1972. The facility employed approximately 20,000 people. Three part-time and two full-time doctors, and registered nurses worked at the facility. Free silica or asbestos was found. Fibrous glass concentrations ranged from 0.2 to 5.5 milligrams per cubic meter. The noise level standard of 90 decibels (dBA) was exceeded in the multiple drill and hand grinding areas with a peak of 91dBA. Ventilation in the degreasing chamber was inefficient, with a flow rate of 8 to 10 feet per minute. The ventilation hoods in the deflashing room were also inadequate. Potential hazards observed include styrene exposure near the molding area, freon exposure in the pump room, and fibrous glass exposure during several work operations. The author recommends that protective clothing be worn by workers exposed to fibrous glass, installation of new equipment in the deflashing room to reduce noise, improvements in the ventilated systems, and the use of protective devices to prevent skin exposures to styrene. |
