Health hazard evaluation report: HETA 77-011-1338, Inland Division, GMC, Dayton, Ohio
White, GA; Emmett, EA; Kominsky, JR; Singal, M
Worker exposures to wet rubber process chemicals were surveyed in February, July and October, 1977 and March, 1982 at the Inland Division of General Motors Corporation (SIC-3060) in Dayton, Ohio. The evaluation was requested by the United Rubber, Cork and Linoleum Workers, Local 87, on behalf of 600 workers concerned about skin and respiratory problems. Air sampling for organic vapors was conducted and workers completed medical questionnaires. Medical examinations, and medical records were reviewed. Exposures to 1,1,1-trichloroethane (71556), toluene (108883), trichloroethylene (79016), para-xylene (106423), o-xylene (95476), ammonia (7664417), ethyl-benzene (100414), total particulates, 2-ethoxyethanol (110805), isopropanol (67630), n-butyl-acetate (123864), and isobutylbutyrate (539902), were below acceptable OSHA standards. Twelve of 162 workers examined had active, healed, or healing skin rashes of potential occupational origin. Respiratory function tests did not identify any specific jobs or agents associated with impaired function, however four individuals with possible job related respiratory impairments were found. The authors conclude that no chemical exposure hazards exist at this facility. They recommend adherence to good personal and work hygiene practices, development of employee health and safety education programs, establishment of a safe vessel entry program, enclosure of the ammonia metering system, and isolation of the chromic-acid transfer lines.