US EPA

627059 

Journal Article 

Formaldehyde exposure in the funeral industry 

Korczynski, RE 

1994 

Yes 

Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene
ISSN: 1047-322X
EISSN: 1521-0898 

NIOSH/00225004 

9 

8 

575-579 

https://search.proquest.com/docview/16988834?accountid=171501
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n assessment of formaldehyde exposure was conducted among embalmers in the funeral industry in the province of Manitoba, Canada. The occupational exposure limit is defined by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' threshold limit value-ceiling of 0.37 mg/m super(3) (0.3 ppm). Personal and area midget impingers were used to monitor the embalming procedure. Samples were analyzed according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Method 3500. Thirty-six embalmings were monitored in 18 chapels. Health effects identified by some embalmers included irritation of the mucous membranes and chest tightness. Most embalmers are immunized with the hepatitis B vaccine. Universal precautions against infectious agents were not strictly adhered to in most embalmings. An upgrading of engineering controls, improved work practices, and use of personal protective equipment was required in the majority of funeral chapels. The principle of down-draft ventilation was adapted to some existing morgue tables. Compliance under the Canadian Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System Legislation was reviewed. 

DCN-224657; Formaldehydes; Occupational exposure; Work practices; Clinical symptoms; Personal protective equipment; Ventilation systems; Professional workers; Infection control