Document 60kbmd0x31QG4RBE7MnrvKjo

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE . WASHINGTON 25, D. C. BUREAU OF STATE SERVICES Refer to: Dr. Robert A. Kehoe Director, Kettering Laboratory College of Medicine University of Cincinnati Cincinnati 19, Ohio FEB 2 9 I960 Dear Dr. Kehoe: Members of our staff have discussed the proposed substitution of tetramethyl lead (TML) for tetraethyl lead (TEL) in certain gasolines to be marketed by a major petroleum company. As you know, the Public Health Service has no legal authorization to regulate the use of such substances in gasoline. We believe that the decision to use TML as a substitute for TEL is one which should be made by the companies concerned after due consideration of the hazards which may result to the general public and to workers engaged in the manufacture of TML and its blending and also those engaged in the wholesale and retail marketing of these gasolines. We also believe that representatives of the companies should discuss this matter with the State health authorities in the States concerned. If the decision is made to use TML as a gasoline additive, we would suggest that the companies conduct studies that would demonstrate its acceptability from the public health viewpoint. Should it develop that TML cannot be manufactured and used in gasoline without undue risk to the workers or to the public, the Public Health Service would recommend that its use be discontinued. In the manufacture and blending of TML, it is also suggested that the same hygienic standards applicable to TEL be used. Should the companies concerned proceed with the substitution of TML for TEL, we suggest that liaison be established between the companies and the Public Health Service with the understanding that the Public Health Service will have access to all clinical, environ mental and other pertinent data relating to any studies undertaken. RE 0009268 Dr. Robert A. Kehoe 2- - We also suggest that the companies present to the Public Health Service one year after initiating the substitution a report on the impact of TML on the contamination of the atmosphere in a major metropolitan center as well as clinical and environmental data demonstrating the safety of controls in the manufacture, use and handling of TML and of gasolines containing this compound. Sincerely yours, r dyJ'~ZL (. 2 3L-; ' < ? Assistant Surgeon General Chief, Bureau of State Services KE 0003263