| Abstract |
A walk through survey at Union Carbide Corporation (SIC-2869), Taft, Louisiana, was conducted in June, 1984. The purpose of the survey was to obtain information on the 1,3-butadiene (106990) monomer manufacturing process and to assess exposure potential to 1,3-butadiene. The company manufactured a crude stream containing 40 to 50 percent 1,3-butadiene. The raw product was sold to other companies for recovery of 1,3-butadiene. The production process was enclosed. Quality control samples were taken at one end of the process line. Engineering controls consisted of providing all pumps in the process unit with single mechanical seals backed up by a packing gland. The company conducted preemployment physicals on all employees. Personal protective equipment required by the company included safety glasses and hard hats. Respirators were required in the loading area, but were not routinely used in the production area. The company conducted personal and area sampling for 1,3-butadiene since 1978. Average 1,3-butadiene exposures in all job categories were 2 parts per million. The author concludes that the facility is suitable for an indepth survey. Installation of a closed loop quality control sampling system that reduces the potential for worker exposure is recommended. |
