Health Hazard Evaluation Report No. HETA-80-115-1401, U.S. Steel, Lorain-Cuyahoga Works, Lorain, Ohio
Workplace exposures and worker pulmonary function were investigated in May, 1980, November, 1980, July, 1981, and May, 1982 at US Steel (SIC-3310), Lorain, Ohio. Evaluation was requested by the United Steel Workers of America, Local 1044. Personal breathing zone samples were collected for silica (14808607), lead (7439921), manganese (7439965), trivalent chromium (16065831), calcium-oxide (1305788), iron-oxide (1309371), coal-tar-pitch (8007452) volatiles, and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). Medical records were reviewed, and blood lead values, chest X-rays, and pulmonary function tests were examined. Questionnaires were distributed and spirometric testing was conducted. Several breathing zone samples exceeded respective OSHA limits of 280, 50, 5000, and 200 micrograms per cubic meter for silica, lead, calcium-oxide, and coal-tar-pitch volatiles. PAH compounds identified included benzo(a)pyrene (50328), chrysene (218019), pyrene (129000), benz(a)anthracene (56553), and fluoranthrene (206440). Blood lead concentrations were not significantly increased; one chest X-ray indicated pneumoconiosis, and another indicated asbestos (1332214) exposure. Reduced forced vital capacity (FVC) and reduced forced expiratory volume ratios were found in 14 and 20 percent, respectively, of 119 workers tested. These measures were not correlated with exposure to silica. The authors conclude that a respiratory hazard from silica dust exists. Recommendations are provided for additional environmental monitoring.