US EPA

1333232 

Technical Report 

Health Hazard Evaluation Report No. MHETA-86-191-1836, West Virginia, Department of Highways, Charleston, West Virginia 

Kullman, GJ 

1987 

NIOSH/00175434 

NIOSH 

MHETA-86-191-1836 

86-191 

In response to a request from the West Virginia Department of Highways, an evaluation was performed at its Sign Shop (SIC-2751, SIC-3499) in Charleston, West Virginia, for possible exposures to solvent vapors from silkscreening and exposures to excessive noise from sign fabrication. Levels of organic vapors and dibutyl-phthalate (84742) (less than 0.02mg/m3) during silkscreening were well below existing standards for exposure levels (Occupational Safety and Health Administration permissible exposure limit for dibutyl-phthalate, 5mg/m3). However, there were some working conditions in this area which could cause discomfort among workers under varying conditions. The general exhaust fan did not run continuously during operations, no mechanical supply air source for area general exhaust fans was provided, poor placement of signs while drying caused vapors to be drawn past workers at breathing zone levels thus increasing their exposure potential, and no protective goggles or gloves were used routinely when handling solvents and inks. Recommendations addressing each of these shortcomings are presented. Although time weighted average noise exposures in sign fabrication were not excessive, some workers received short exposures to noise levels over the NIOSH recommended maximum allowable limit (115 decibels-A) during metal saw use. It is recommended that workers in sign fabrication wear hearing protection devices when using shop equipment or when working in an area where such equipment is being used. 

DCN-163162; NIOSH Publication; NIOSH Author; NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation; MHETA 86 191 1836; Region 3; NIOSH Technical Assistance Report; Hazard Confirmed; Noise exposure; Inhalants; Air sampling; Organic vapors; Phthalates; Noise control; Painters; Metal workers