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8141062 
Technical Report 
Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 84-289-1798, Kirby Manufacturing Company, Inc., McClure, Pennsylvania, May 1987 
Crandall, MS; Handke, JL 
1987 
Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 
Cincinnati, OH 
HETA #84-289-1798 
17 
English 
In response to a request from an employer representative, an evaluation was made of the Kirby Manufacturing Company (SIC-2260) located in McClure, Pennsylvania concerning possible exposure to formaldehyde (50000) from the resin used to give a wrinkle resistant property to textiles. Full shift breathing zone and general air monitoring samplings were performed. In 14 samples the personal exposure to formaldehyde ranged from 0.5 to 1.5 parts per million (ppm) with an average of 1.0 ppm. A questionnaire regarding symptoms was completed by 100 workers. Symptoms reported to be occurring more frequently of late included sneezing, nasal irritation, headache, eye irritation, throat irritation, and coughing. As these symptoms were connected with formaldehyde exposures, the authors conclude that overexposure to formaldehyde was occurring at the facility. The authors recommend that a specialist in industrial ventilation systems be consulted to prepare specifications for a dilution ventilation system for the facility. Using the new system, indoor air containing formaldehyde vapor would not be recirculated. Fabrics containing formaldehyde should be aired before further treatment or use. 
PB88126149