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3647825 
Technical Report 
Health hazard evaluation report: HETA-91-215-2293, Internal Revenue Service Appeals Office, Omaha, Nebraska. 
Burton, NC; Buchta, TM 
1993 
No 
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 
Cincinnati, OH 
HETA-91-215-2293 
English 
In response to a request from the National Treasury Employees Union, an evaluation was undertaken of indoor air quality at the Internal Revenue Service Appeals Office (SIC-9311) in Omaha, Nebraska. Employees at the site had reported sore throats, sinus problems, cold like symptoms, burning eyes, and headaches. Asbestos (1332214) containing insulation was also a concern. The office was located on the third floor of a ten floor office building, and had 25 employees. Constant volume ventilation systems serviced the office. Relative humidity ranged from 25.2 to 28.2%. Indoor temperatures ranged from 70.5 to 74.8%. Inside particle counts ranged from 12,000 to 71,000 particles per 0.1 cubic foot of air. The higher particle counts were found in an office where smoking was permitted, and in adjacent areas. Data from previous sampling indicated that there were no detectable levels of asbestos fibers in the office areas. The authors conclude that environmental tobacco smoke was a health hazard in this building. The authors recommend that some specific measures be taken to improve the working conditions at this facility.