US EPA

1516187 

Journal Article 

Health Hazard Evaluation Report No. HETA-90-174-2231, Modern Materials Incorporated, Rochester, Indiana 

Mouradian, RF; Deitchman, S 

2231 

In response to a request from the management of Modern Materials Incorporated (SIC-3479), Rochester, Indiana, possible chemical exposures associated with powder coating operations, specifically isocyanates used in some powder coatings, were evaluated. Air sampling indicated that the concentrations of most of the targeted chemicals were well below the Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) and Recommended Exposure Limits (RELs). However, some exposures to epsilon-caprolactam (105602), formaldehyde (50000), and sulfur-dioxide (7446095) exceeded these limits. Conditions were observed which allowed dermal exposure to corrosives to occur, including hexavalent chromium (7440473). Inoperative eye washes, inadequate personal protective equipment, and apparent failure to meet communications requirements were also noted. The authors conclude that employees were exposed to potentially hazardous concentrations of aldehydes, epsilon-caprolactam, and sulfur-dioxide, and that there was a potential for hazardous exposures to other materials, and to unsafe conditions from inadequate use of safety devices and personal protective equipment. It was not possible to determine if workers had been exposed to unsafe levels of isocyanates or had developed isocyanate sensitization. The authors recommend specific measures to improve the conditions at this site. 

DCN-209982; NIOSH Publication; NIOSH Author; NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation; NIOSH Technical Assistance Report; HETA 90 174 2231; Hazard Confirmed; Region 5; Coatings; Hexavalent chromium compounds; Aldehydes; Occupational exposure; Skin exposure; Safety equipment; 105-60-2; 50-00-0; 7446-09-5; 7440-47-3