Document 3NGDjm5QZGLzpaDLZQKVJekzJ

r^ Monsanto MONSANTO PLASTICS & ACSINS CO. 730 Worest*r Strat Indian Orshird. Maiaachuiatts OtISI Phontt (413) 738-891) January 25, 1979 Mr. Rudolph. Bayerle, Jr. OSSA. Springfield Area Director 1200 Main Street., Suite 513 Springfield, Mass. 01103 Dear Mr. Bayerle: Recently the Monsanto Springfield Medical Department started a special health study program for employees In the plant who might have had an exposure to an asbestos additive ran- material used In the manufacture of a phenolic molding compound from 1941 to 1959. All active employees In the plant who worked in that department during the usage period were Identified and notified of their Inclusion in the program. Existing E-ray films on those Identified employees were ''"N collected and forwarded to Dr. George W. Wright, a recognized expert In the field of asbestos related Illness. He has reviewed the X-rays of those persons In the plant who worked in that area during the usage period and has reported his Initial findings. Of the 218 employees in the plant whose X-rays were studied, 23 showed some signs which may be Indicative of effects associated with asbestos exposure, and 131 were found to be free of such asbestos effects. Films of 64 employees were judged by the consultant to be technically Inadequate for this evaluation and new X-rays will be required. Although it has not been confirmed that any of these cases were work connected, the following measures are being taken for employee protection: 1. The 23 involved employees are being Immediately contacted and Informed of the X-ray results and further action which will be taken for their protection. 2. We are In the process of contacting all other concerned employees in the study to inform them that either they are free of- any such signs or that they will require repeat X-rays. 3. The initial health study is being broadened to include former employees. The study Is being extended further in conjunction with the recommendations of Dr. Wrlghe and Monsanto's Department of Medicine and Environmental Health. geyesis'sti i uflic of M to Como*** n Mr. Harold Bavley Director of Occupational Hygiene January 25, 1979 Monsanto Springfield has given the NIOSH Regional Program Consultant in Boston, the QSHA Springfield Area Director and Union officials this information. The health program will continue and further Information will be communicated as it becomes available. Very truly yours. W. E. Nessell, M.D. Springfield Plant.Physician r' R&S159489