Document KqjkvjkDRKnmymDgb9kZjzJw

Interoffice Communication To J. H. McCulley - Ponca City From T. G. Grumbles om March 20, 1980 Subject PVC DUST EXPOSURES (conoco) Zl=. Recent health studies of PVC dust exposed workers indicate adverse pulmonary effects may be caused or accelerated by PVC dust inhalation. A summary of this report prepared by CMA is attached, as well as the SPI statement on the study results. As a result of this study and other published reports, OSHA has assigned a project officer to PVC dust. In the past this step has resulted in promulgation of a stand ard. PVC dust exposures currently fall under the OSHA respirable dust limit of 5 mg/m^ for an 8-hour time-weighted average. A specific PVC dust standard if promulgated would result in a lower exposure limit. We are now taking steps to evaluate worker exposures to PVC dust at Aberdeen and Oklahoma City under existing conditions. Once those results are obtained we will determine if existing controls are ade quate to meet current exposure limits as well as anticipated lower exposure limits. If necessary, specific recommendations to reduce worker dust exposure will then be made, consistent with plant design philosophy. We will of course keep abreast of OSHA's activity in this area. / T. G. Grumbles ajo Attachments cc J. F. Alix *" R. E. Baily R. J. Ruesch John Friend R. D. Gamblin J. A. DeBernardi' E. L. Kieschnick Greg Hoenes DTH 0000343jsfi5.yj