Document 157NVzpaRRB8gzRLmareGqm6m

Monsanto ** .Mr 4 -ac*' on A. W. Andrews - E3SH -u . r * TO January 30, 1974 VCM/PVC R. E. Kelly ct H. H- Bible H. J. Corbett J. R. Eck F. E. Reese F. C. Rehfeld J. J. Spano M. C. Throdahl Based on the developments which appear likely in the wake of the B. F. Goodrich VCM/PVC health incident, I believe that Monsanto's response should be directed and coordinated by a member of your department. I would suggest that MICC, Law, International Division and Public Relations designate representatives to work with you on this matter. Mr. H. J. Corbett has been assigned MP&eP Co. responsibility in this matter. Your response would be appreciated. /\ * (JJL /cst A. W. Andrews . 1 : F V I r$V 001^022 Febn .'y 6, 1974 This memorandum summarizes the meeting on February 4, 1974 by the persons named below to discuss the developing vinyl chloride situation and any actions which should be taken by Monsanto in light of that situation. H. J. Corbett - MP&P (Plastics) M. E. Gibbs - MICC (Specialty Products) P. R. Graham - MICC (Plasticizers) R. E. Kelly - Medical Department G. E. Pratt - International Division G. Roush, Jr. - Medical Department E. G. Volz - CED (S&PP) P. 3. Park - Corporate Law The situation at the Goodrich Louisville Plant which, according to recent reports, led to the death of three employees from a rare form of liver cancer, was reviewed to the extent l:nown by those present. Apparently the plant is an old one and the three deceased employees had been working in the polyvinyl chloride facility for around twenty years. Drs. Kelly and Roush described studies presently underway to determine any statistical differences in mortality causes and rates at PVC and related facilities as com pared with other manufacturing facilities, and industry sponsored tests to determine the carcinogenic qualities oi` vinvi ahTnri.`i* 'sAmo indication of the results of these studies and tests is expected by the end of this month. It is anticipated that information gathered or developed by others may be presented at the Depai'tment of Labor Fact Finding Hearing in Washington, D. C. on February 15. This group will meet shortly after that hearing to discuss whether any additional action should be taken in light of informa tion made available at the hearing. In the meantime, it was agreed that the working atmosphere should be monitored at the Springfield FVC facility and the Texas City EVCL facility to confirm that any VCM in the atmosphere is at such a low level of concentration as to present r.o hazard to employees. It was agreed thab Dr. Roush and the undersigned v:ill coordinate Mcnsanto's activities concerning this matter. PSP/jmd RSV 0014023 O'* i t .K