US EPA

3713991 

Journal Article 

Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 91-390-2270, Warner Amex, Cincinnati, Ohio 

Kelly, JE; Moss, CE; Tepper, A 

1992 

20 

36 

In response to a request from employees of the Van Kirk location of Warner Cable Communications (SIC-4841), Cincinnati, Ohio a study was undertaken of possible exposures of workers to lead (7439921), electromagnetic radiation, asbestos (1332214), and poor air quality. The workers were also said to be suffering from psychological disorders as a result of being expected to work in inadequate conditions. The company stored, tested and repaired cable television converter boxes. In repairing the boxes, some parts were attached by soldering. Local exhaust ventilation was not provided. Sources of magnetic and electric fields included television sets and video display terminals used to test the boxes. Airborne lead and tin (7440315) concentrations were below minimum detectable concentrations in all samples except one. Carbon-dioxide (124389) concentrations were within the limits required for adequate ventilation. Thermal decomposition products of the solder were identified and may have been the cause of reported mucous membrane irritation. The authors conclude that no occupational health hazard was identified at this facility. The authors recommend measures to reduce potential lead exposures and provide a more comfortable working environment. 

Occupational safety and health; Environmental surveys; Biological radiation effects; Toxic substances; Industrial medicine; Lead(Metal); Communication cables; Asbestos; Air quality; Ventilation; Toxicity; Decomposition; Occupational exposure; Electromagnetic radiation; Indoor air pollution; Carbon dioxide; Cincinnati(Ohio); EPA region 5; SIC 4841; CAS 7439-92-1; CAS 1332-21-4; CAS 7440-31-5; CAS 124-38-9