Document 6bG6OYR862EX24ED8RJJ4Kkem

Dr. P lante k j -i \ :// . - 1)eoeraber 6, 1957 Dr* K* Plantey 117 Ms Bus Michelet Alger* Bear Doctor Planteyj- I have received correspondence through the London office of Ethyl Export Corporation transmitting Information concerning a workmen In the plant of the Compagnie Algerlenne dea Petrolea who appfired to have been Intoxicated In some measure through lead absorption* I might say at the outset that I am somewhat skeptical of the diagnosis in this case* and although the symptoms recited in your letter of November 17th are suggestive* I am still doubtful of the diagnosis* Moreover the Quantity of lead reported as found in this man*s urine is within normal limits as given by methods of analysis which we employ* In any case I am Quit sure that if this man absorbed lead sufficient to produce the symptoms described, then he must have handled tetraethyl lead by methods which are not in accord with our regulations* If the regulations are followed, there should be no exposure whatever* Accordingly the principal matter of importance in relation to this case has to do with the care with which the work is being carried out* If the plant is inadequate and if the work is being done care lessly, it should be cheeked into and these bad conditions should be corrected* If this Is done, and If the man who was reported as ill Is now entirely well, and is willing to work In accordance with the regulations, there is no reason. In my opinion# why he should not be returned to this work* On the other hand, if he is careless and if he is responsible for the use of un satisfactory methods of mixing# then fee should under no circumstances be permitted to carry a this type of work* I I would appreciate it very much if you would look carefully into the manner in which this plant is operated so as to determine whether the work la being done properly* If it is not* I wish you would advise me as to the details of the difficulty* I should also like to have you report to me what disposition you make of this case and whether or not you have permitted him to return to hts former work* K C? y-.-t&g 8\ /*-: .'rv'" 8 ' .0. iCj Dr* KL&nfeey BAKjls g o Mr* Possefcfc Cordially yonrs, koiVar^""A#' 'faEooj'l^lS* Ki? A A 1 G ,1 V> U 1 .> `i '