Document N2dxG7agzROm9O4ZaZdLvdenD

!1 L. r 1 ^ ' fc. _ i^4 -W.J ---i . . - Jl L.... . . .,, ^ 1 L-- - . -J . J h. _J [ - L. - ' - - H , S-J iteiatuie GLstlacts 9 MEDICAL 9 ENGINEERING LEGAL -- decisions and trends latumxi Mun.thly liy INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE FOUNDATION i-100 i-'irTH AVENUE ' PITTSBURGH, PA. f' 10-13 Industrial Hygiene Foundation, 4400 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Fti* INDUSTRIAL HTOIZME DIGEST Literature and News News Items Dramatizing the Effect of Absenteeism. Company managements arc displaying considerable ingenuity in trying to impress employees with the effect upon production of the aggregate days lost through absenteeism. One such method was recently reported by the California Shipbuild ing Corporation. At an ironical celebration one noon, the heel of e slave chip, "The Absentee," in the form of a long black piece of plywood, was laid in the presence of large numbers of employees. Addresses were made by men repre senting Hitler, Hirehito and Mussolini expressing their joy that, as a result of absenteeism during the past fourteen'months, twelve cargo ships that should be sailing the sea have not been built. In his speech, "Hitler" announced that the Absentee Workers Association has 2,000 men laying off the job every day, vath the result of nearly five million man hours lost. "That," he said, "is the equiv alent of not building twelve freighters for the United States and is the same thing as providing the Axis with the samo mount of merchant shipping." The man representing Mussolini stated that to become a paid-up member cf the gang in good standing an enployoo only had to lay off the job a day or two. Oratory from "Hirohito" was made difficult because ho had troublo with a mouthful of storo- m'.do buck te-eth. At first the thousands of yard workman were vastly amused by the satire; when they returned to work they were not laughing. -- Management Rocord, 5*12 (January, 1943). Silicosis Record. Since silicosis became compensable in Ohio on July 31, 1937, a total of 1,144 silicosis claims have boon filed with the Industrial Commission. Of this number 439 have been allowed, 517 disallowed end 138 are still pending. During Decem ber, 1942, 17 silicosis claims wore approved and compensation awarded end on equal number were disallowed. -- Ohio Ind. Conn. Monitor, 16, 8 (January, 1943). .'mr-Ioyment of Younp: Persons. eguards for the health, welfare and education of American youth whose ser- vie.'.c arc being demanded by the war program were advanced by a statement of policy approved by the bar Manpower Commission and signed by Paul V. McNutt, Chatman, and released for publication February 7. Among the restrictions on the ar.plojTr.cnt of youth under 13 years of ego, the following are of special interest. They may be employed: (a) in work suited to their age and strength. r r> / r- *' Inv.ictrial Hygiene Digest - 2 avoiding all occupations that are hazardous to health or welfare; (b) where pro vision is mde for adequate meals and rest periods or time, and facilities there for, adequate sanitary facilities, and safeguards for health and safety; (c) for periods suited to their health and strength, and in no case for more than 8 hours a day or 6 consecutive days, with exceptions applying to farm work: and seasonal employment, and (d) during hour3 of day not detrimental to their health or wel fare. 234- Buffalo District Committee for Industrial Health. The above committee, a subcommittee of the Council Committee on Public Health and Education of the Medical Society of the State of Hew York, consists of men and women in the medical profession, in management and in labor who will map out a program for immediate action toward better industrial health. Among physicians, the committee seeks to develop interest in industrial medicine, to rally volun teers willing to sacrifice some time on it and to emphasize medicines responsi bility toward the industrial worker as a factor in winning the war. In educat ing management, factual material on savings and increased output through better industrial health procedures will be available. Regarding labor, the committee will try to develop an educational program on industrial health in the labor unions. A plant survey has been started, and several local industrial health problems are being considered. Ind. Hyg., (U.S.P.H.S.), 3, 5-6 (February, 1943). 235 Campaign Launched for Eye Safety. To check the increasing number of eye injuries among workers in war industries, Secretary of Labor Perkins has appointed an Rye Saving Section of the National Committee for the Conservation of Manpower in War Industries. Harry Guilbert of Chicago, Director of Safety for the Pullman Company has been named chief of ' the new section. "Eye injuries cause a substantial part of the temporary timo losses due to work accidents," Secretary Pefkins said, "Experience has demon strated that such injuries can be prevented by the consistent use of protective lenses and adequate control of operating hazards ... "Observation of the Department's safety experts in more than 20,000 war plants during the past two years indicates a substantial increase in the volume of this type of injury. In one plant employing 30,000 workers the record reveals, 1,750 eye injuries in a recent month, 2 of them being described as serious." Secretary Perkins has assigned M.M. Bowman, safety specialist of the Department at Cleveland, to assist Mr. Guilbert. , Legal Developments Dhle^reis Alba Dol.ns. Proa Pncur.cr.in Suffered by Store Employee. lx-3oscd to Ch..r..;,ing temperatures in Building in Courso of Employment. Lack of Evidence 4t-orS SChho*.-.,,v PDmroaxvi^mh.a4te.. HCa- u, , se-- Thais- appeal is~ from a judgment in favor of the defendant in an action brought to recover damages alleged to have been caused by defendant's failure to furnish a safe place of employment, for fraud in depriving plaintiff of his action for damages, and on a contract to pay the plaintiff's salary during his disability. Plaintiff was employed in defendant's store. The plaintiff's work included the maintenance of department stock from supplies in the stockrooms, replenish ing and changing sales counters, work in the offices, window trimming and dis play arrangement, inventory work in the offices and stockrooms, and going back and forth among and in the departments, offices and stockrooms. The plaintiff 004086 i Ir. hu-trini Hygiene Digest - 3 complained of the cold near the entrance doors and in the display windows. He suffered wife a cold, was tired and rundown, and on December 16, 1936, he had a fever and fainted. Ho was sent home and confined to his bed with pneumonia. Three weeks later, the doctor discovered ho was afflicted with phlCjjnasia alba colons, an inflammatory condition in the veins of both legs. Dr. Storey testi fied that "overwork and sudden changes of temperature are contributing factors in the production of pneumonia," but that "ono can contract pneumonia without a cold"; that phlebitis is one of the complications of pneuaonia, and that the cause of plaintiff's pneumonia would bo "purely guess work." Before the plain tiff can recover he must show affirmative evidence that the defendant has been fruity of some act of negligence, and it must appear that the injury claimed was the natural and probable consequence of the negligence. There was no direct evidence that the plaintiff's contracting of pneumonia was occasioned by being exposed to changing temperatures while in defendant's employ, and whatever evi dence there was, left the matter uncertain and showed that the cause of plain tiff's pneumonia was purely guess work. There was no evidence to sustain plain tiff* s claim. Defendant makes the point that if the plaintiff ever had cause of action based upon negligence, it became barred by the two year period of limi tations. The plaintiff contends that the defendant is estopped from claiming the benefit of the statute because of fraud, and on the further ground that the defendant promised him his salary during his disability; that he relied upon the promise and forbore to sue; and that, consequently, he was within the six year statute of limitations. There is no evidence of fraud, nor any that the defen dant concealed or attempted to conceal any facts or that it misled the plaintiff. Neither is there evidence justifying a finding that the parties entered into a contract to pay the plaintiff's salary throughout his life. Judgment affirmed, Moscell v. V/.T. Grant Company. U.S.C.C.A. Decided January 25, 1943. (CCH). 237 Death of Carpenter Caused by Heat Stroke. Heat Stroke as Being Within Meaning of Workmen's Compensation Act. ~ Smith a carpenter by trade, was employed by respondent. He was engaged in some w-ork on the roof of the building under construction, sawing and nailing sheeting. He was apparently in good health. At noon. Smith walked across the roof of the building, leaned over toward the foreman and suddenly "slumped." Smith was laid down on a level place. A physician arrived in ten or twelve minutes. He testi fied that when he arrived Smith was dead, but "his body was still warm and ho had perspiration about his face and hands." Dr. Bruce, the physician who responded to the emergency call and examined the deceased, diagnosed the cause of death as "an acute heart failure." The only medical testimony offered by appellants was that of Dr. Eaddy, who. gave his opinion as to the cause of death from hypothetical questions propounded. He testified that Smith died of heat stroke. Respondents claimed, and the Circuit Court hold, that the testimony of Dr. Eaddy was without probative value. The fact that the other two physicians and many laymen do not share the opinion advanced by Dr. Eaddy would not destroy the probative value of this testimony, although it was a consideration to be weighed by the fact-finding body. The Circuit Court held that if there had been sufficient evidence reasonably tending to sustain the finding of fact that death occurred from a heat stroke, such death would be an accident within the moaning of the Compensation Act. The rule supported by the weight of authority is that heat prostration which results from the employee's engaging in the employ meat, whether due to unusual or extraordinary condition or not, is to be doomed n accidental injury within the nearing of the statutes. Such an injury is 'cci- dontal in that it is unforseon and unexpected. Judgment reversed and the award is sustained. Smith ct nl. v. Southern Builders, Inc. ot al. So. Car. -up. Ct. Decided January 13, 1943. (Cdii). ti v In'VJJtvial Hygiene Digest - 4 Le-ii Poisoning Causing Death cf Painter. Liability of Employer for Aggravation of"Toceoaedjs Prior Doj^c;/it__Cory; 11ion.jt_s,_Victim_of Lead^ Poisoning. Deceased had been a house painter for defendant about eighteen months when he become suddenly ill vrith abdominal pains, nausea and fever, ell symptoms of lead poisoning. Ho consulted a physician near his place of employment and after a f ;v; days ho called in a local doctor who treated him a short time and then sent him to the Anderson County Hospital* There he lingered hopelessly for v;celts ana uoepitc diagnosis and treatment by several physicians developed further typical symptoms, neuritis and mental deterioration until his death. All of the physi- - clans agreed upon the basic diagnosis of lead poisoning. The case resolves itself into whether the deceased was exposed in his employment to the taking of lead into his system, and whether ho did so take it, in such quantity and under such circumstances as to constitute an accident, causing his acute illness and subsequent death. The Commission so found. As a part of his work, deceased scraped ana brushed off old paint, subjecting him to the inhalation of tho re sulting dust containing load. If the inhalation of lead in unusual quanti ties occurred during the period of employment of the deceased by Mathews Mill by accidental means, then it matters not that such unusual ana accidental inhalation merely aggravated deceased's prior dormant condition as a victim (if he was) of lead poisoning, for such aggravation, resulting in death, would make the latter compensable. Judgment of the lower court is affirmed. Strawhom v. J.A-. Chnrr.an Construction Company, ct al. So. Car. Sup. Ct. Decided January 22, 1942. Tcch). " "* 239 Total and Permanent Disability. Employee Poisoned by Ammonia Gas or Sewer Gas from Sump. Tank ct Meat Pecking House. Plaintiff instituted this suit under tho Workmen's Compensation Act for total aodpernanent disability due to an injury he received in an accident arising in the course and scope of his employment. Defendant is a wholesale packing com pany. Plaintiff, who had been assisting a mechanic of defendant corporation in overhauling and putting in shape all mechanical equipment in tho plant, was ordered to bail out the sump tank, used as a drainage tank for the purpose of collecting water and grease on the floor into which washing powder and ammonia drained with the other refuse. Plaintiff entered the tank and was standing on the ladder where he could dip the bucket in the fluid to empty it into a barrel provided for that purpose. After approximately fifteen minutes his fellow labor er called to him and receiving no reply he discovered plaintiff still standing erect on the ladder with oik hand grasping it, his body perfectly stiff and, "Ho had a poculiar look on his faco." He was pulled out of the tank and placed on the floor on some sacks. Plaintiff was perfectly stiff and. unconscious. Artifi cial respiration was successful in starting plaintiff to breathe again and soon thereafter ho was raised to Ms feet again but could not stand. Plaintiff was carried t6'tho sanitarium, whero he remained for seven days under the treatment of a physician chosen and paid for by defendant. Plaintiff complained of dianiness and severe pains in his chest, stomach and between his shoulder blades; that when he coughs a severe pain strikes him and cuts his breath off. At the time of trial his cough had grown much -worse. It is certain that plaintiff has not performed any labor of any kind sinco the accident and claims he is not phy sically able to do so. Plaintiff walks v.hon necessary but always using a stick or cane. Plaintiff alleged the accident was caused by inhaling ammonia gas. The doctor who treated plaintiff never treated him for poison gas hut considered him a malingerer. The medical testimony is very unsatisfactory. Judgement is reversed for plaintiff. Collias v. Armour & Company, ltd. La. Ct. of App., 2d Cir, Decided December 14, 1942. tCC.;]. . CO ur\ 0 1 ;/...-trial Hygiene Digest' - 5 ;t Exhaustion Resulting in. Death of Boiler-Xsker. Repairs as Being Not V.'ithcut of Bapjoymcnt. decedent, a toiler-maker, was repairing a steam boiler for the defendant and while replacing tubes inside the boiler, it is alleged that he was overcome by heat exhaustion* Defendant's business was the sale of road ana paving materials. De cedent, whenever called by defendant, charged for his services at an hourly rate. He v:as carried on defendant's payroll and was covered by a policy of Workmen.1 s Compensation insurance along v.ith ail of defendant's employees; defendant also made payments on his behalf under the Unemployment Compensation Lav/ ana the So cial Security Act. However, this is not conclusive evidence of an employer- employee relationship. If not made a part of an employer's business, repairs are a proper subject for an independent contract. Decedent's occupation or bus iness was distinct from that of the defendant. He was paid by the job on an hourly basis by all of the industrial concerns where he worked and v/as not in the regular employ of any of them. In his relation with the defendant he v/as employed to accomplish a definite result, i.e., to repair a particular boiler ana not to make repairs generally. Defendant did not supervise the work nor re serve the right of supervision. Therefore, the employment of claimant's husband was independent and the relation v/as that of contractee and contractor and not master and servant. Order reversed and judgment directed to be entered in favor of defendant. Bradley v. Chester Materials Company et al. Penna. Super ior Ct. Decided February 1, 1943. {CCH). 241 Occupational Diseases. Silicosis as Primary Causo asDistinguished from Immedi ate Cause. Lowering of Vitality Hot Componsablo Under Act. This is a claim for workmen's compensation for total disability for death alleged to have been caused by silicosis, filed under the Workmen's Occupational Disease Compensation Act. The finding of the Board was for the .claimant, widow of ae- ' ceased, Howard Stauffer. Stauffer had worked as a moulder. His occupation ex posed him to the hazard of silicosis, and he was advised to change his occupation. He was not disabled or laid off because of silicosis, but was unable to work be cause of what was afterwards diagnosed as streptothricosis, which was the cause of his death. Medical testimony is clear and undisputed that Stauffer died of the streptothricial infection; that this infection v/as not caused by or brought about by the silicosis from which he v/as suffering in a serious stage, except that the silicosis lowered his resistance. It is well established in our workmen's compensation law that an accident, or an infection that results from it, which merely lowers the injured employee's vitality and resistance to germ diseases, rendering him more susceptible to them and less able to combat the disease, is not compensable as respects disability or death resulting from a germ disease or infection not directly caused by the accident. There is no competent testimony to support the findings of fact on which the award rested, and from which the board determined that silicosis v/as the primary cause of death. Judgment reversed for the defendants. Stauffer v. Kubley Manufactur ing Company et al. Pcnra. Superior Ct, Decided January 23, 1943. (CCH). Occupational Disease. Death of Spinner Resulting from. Carbon Disulphide Ges Poisoning. Thus appeal is from a judgment on an award for compensation arising under the Occupational Disease Compensation Act. The Occupational Disease Compensation Act contemplates disease or injury resulting to the employee from the slow and gradual effects of certain named poisons in any occupation involving direct con- v.ith T./ier'.. or exposure to the;:. - among them, poisoning by carbon bisulbn Claimant's husband was employed by the defendant as a spinner for seven years; during all that tine the defendant, in its process of manufacturing rayon, used, ;'.nd still uses, carbon disulphide, which is a deadly poison. :ie became totally disabled, and died. The testimony includes testimony by Dr. Max Trunpor, a CO 'v n f> UO b Industrial Hygiene Digest - 6 bio-chemist and toxicologist. There is sufficient evidence to establish the finding that the occupation in which the decedent was engaged involved daily con tact with and exposure to carbon disulphide fumes; that carbon disulphide is a poisonous liquid; that carbon disulphide is a severe nc-uro poison, toxic in nature, and has an irritating effect on the lung tissues; that death was acceler ated by carbon disulphide poisoning. As the findings arc based on competent, substantial and sufficient testimony, and they sustain the conclusions of law which support the award, the judgment is affirmed. Plaugher v. American Viscose Corp. Penna. Superior Ct. Decided January 28, 1943. (CCH). Industrial Health Hazards and Their Effects 243 Occupational Hazards in the Aircraft Industry. K. Kay. Occup. Hazards, 5_, 10-11, 24-26 {February, 1943). The various health liazards in the aircraft industry are discussed briefly. They include: (1) painting operations; (2) solvents; (3) degreasing; (4) sandblast ing; (5) v:clding operations, and (6) aircraft dermatitis. ' 244 Silicosis in a Chert-Miner. C.TV, Evans. Brit.Med. J., 2, 636 (November 28,1942). Chert is a hard rock or flint stone containing amounts of silica varying from 30$ to 9G$, which is used for grinding pottery materials. The mines at Bakeweil, Derbyshire arc the greatest source of supply. The case is reported of a miner of chert, who had worked over 30 years, during which occupation he had been ex posed to much dust. When first examined by X-ray his chest showed a perfect picture of silicosis. Symptoms were dyspnoea cough with sputm and tiredness. No tubercles was detected. The case is claimed to bo the first undisputed in stance of silicosi3 due to chert. 245 Silicosis. E.P. Scarlott. Canadian Mod. Assoc. J., 47, 468-472 (November,1942). The author discusses and defines the problem of silicosis in a generalized way as to etiology, pathogenesis, clinical aspects, course and complications, tuber culosis, dusts other than silica, and treatment. He emphasizes the importance of dust particles other than free silica and calls attention to the difficulties in making a diagnosis. 246 Silicon Dioxide in Guinea Pig. Inoculation for Tuberculosis. Harriet Hollon and others*. Am. Rev. Tiiberc., 46_, 568-573 (November, 1942). 367 specimens of tuberculosis cultures were inoculated into guinea pigs in dupli cate. 322 aspirations of lymph nodes were made on inoculated guinea pigs that had received silica with the inoculum, of which 32$ were positive. 94 aspira tions were made on the routine animals of which 34$ were positive. Of the total number of guinea pigs inoculated in duplicate, 25,9$ were positive by both methods, 2.0$ by the silica method only and 1.1$ by the routine method only. While silica aids in the development of tuberculous nodules, the results suggest caution in its application to routine procedure, -- Author* s summary. 247 Hazards to Women Employed in W 'r Plants^ on_ Abrasive-Wheel Jobs, U. S. Donartmart of Labor, Women's Bureau, oaociai Bulletin Do. 7. (1942). Tho pamphlet states the problem to be one of seeing that protective methods, already well developed, are employed in abrasivo-wlieui jobs, end notes the ef fects of this type of work on wemen as compared with men. A brief description COiOB'J Ifd Hygiene Digest - 7 I of grinding, polishing, and buffing processes is given, with a reviev.' of the hazards involved and the preventive methods which may be used. Seme of the poisons to ffhich cbrasivc-whcel workers may be subject arc listed, and a des cription of an adequate dust exhaust system is given. dc.-csscsis. Further Notes of Four Cases. J.A. Gillison and F. Taylor. Brit. Lhd. J., 577-57S (November 14, 1942). s-gnssosia is a lung disease caused by inhaling the dust of bagasse, the stems of sugar canes. The clinical picture is of interest. Before the onset of acute . symptoms, and incubation period of from two to four months occurred, during which the workers were exposed to the dust. Then the acute stage of the illness c:no on suddenly and was characterized by dyspnoea, violent coughing of several days' duration, with the ejection of dark, foul smelling sputum, and retroster nal pain, which was aggravated by movement. For months great weakness persisted, with depression, loss of weight, anorexia and intolerance to exorcise. In all cases the illness was severe and prolonged, but no compensation could be claimed as the disease is not a scheduled one. In two cases a difficulty in interpret ing the X-ray pictures arose, as the men had once been miners and the appearance, suggestive of silicosis in the reticular stage, might have been due to the effect of coal dust. Ho fatality has been reported. 249 Concentration of Atmospheric Metal Furnas in Non-Ferrous Foundries. Wisconsin State Board of Health, Industrial Hygiene Unit. Mimeographed 16 pp. A study of a representative group of 15 non-ferrous foundries in Wisconsin was made from the fall of 1940 to the next sunnier. Samples totaling 752 for lead and 6S1 for zinc were taken with electrostatic precipitators. Lead and zinc were determined by ditliizono methods. Samples were usually taken at a central point near the molding and pouring floor and one point near the furnace, often simultaneously. An average of summer and winter results showed concentrations of atmospheric lead of over 1.5 ng. per 10 cu. m. of air in 11 of 15 furnace sections and in 11 of 14 pouring sections. Seven of c-c.ch averaged over 3.0 mg. per 10 cu. m. The average winter concentration was about 3 times as high as in summer, but even in summer 4 furnace sections and 6 pouring sections had average lead concentrations above the toxic limit. In only one case was the zinc conccntration above the toxic limit of 150 mg, zinc per 10 cu. m. of- air. A large share of atmospheric lead and zinc is liberated during pouring. Even when alloys aro as low as 0,1 or 0.2# lead the toxic limit for lead can easily be exceeded. Lead tends to be carried out of the metal along with zinc fumes. The following recommendations are made: (1) hoods for all furnaces; (2) an exhaust hood for fumes liberated during skimming; (3) crucibles or ladles should be pulled rather than pushed; (4) a conveyor line with pouring done at one spot which can be well exhausted; (5) if the last is not practicable, positive ventilation should be providod;-16} vacuum cleaners for dust removal; and (7) complete periodical physical examinations. A number of charts and tables present the data. -50 Dangers of Sulfur Dioxide to Refrigorator VJorkor. Queries & Minor Notes. J.A.U.A 131, 2-02 (January 23, 1943). /. refrigerator service man frequently brings his hands into contact with sulfur, dioxide, which stains his hands and causes discomfort. It is asked what chem ical will neutralize the irritant after exposure. Protective gloves interfere with manipulation of fingers. Reply -- The chief danger from sulfur dioxide is from freezing. The skin may bleach, but there is no staining. Sulfur dioxide is after, dissolved in cil, and the staining mentioned may come from grime in the ail. No chemical application car. be expected to overewae dulling, but irrita tion nay bo prevented by the application, before and while working, cf a small quantity of hydrous wool fat or similar material, preferably with some mild al kali such as sodium bicarbonate. It is best to avoid contact, 00KOeO  ;jtrir.l Hygiene Digest - 8 : ~ r 1T uon_cc_oi_Acid Fumes Upon the Teeth of Workers in Pickle, Accumulator \ AcTd 'Qt'its in Aostnhuiia. vY. Ludowig. Arch. Gowerbopath., 11. 19 6-310 H-V^-nbcr !& i 1-41). (German). in s :.:.c plants in three inaustries there is a sufficient concentration of strong <:cids to be injurious to workers' teeth. The industries arc pickling of .totals, manufacture of accumulators, and acid manufnature. The pickling bath is usually heaved to 6QC, and droplets of the acids {sulfuric and hydrochloric) condense ir. the air. Respiratory passages, skin and teeth are affected. The teeth be come sensitive to temperature changes, brown, sharp and brittle, causing lesions of the tongue. The author calls this condition necrosis rather than caries ns there is no bacterial infection. The effects show increasing severity from the 1-3 year period to the 10-20 year period, when it reaches its peak, and then falls, probably because only the most robust persons continue in the industry. In the storage battery plants the acid fumes arise when charging. Marked super iority in the condition of workers' teeth at one of the three plants surveyed ; was evidently due to slower charging and better ventilation. There is little acid hazard in sulfuric acid manufacture, because it is conducted in a nearly closed system. The only exposure occurs when workers weld leaking seams or clean ing the chambers. Masks are worn for these operations. Good ventilation is necessary and an ample supply of toothbrushes and alkaline tooth powder should bo provided at all factories where acid fumes or sprays are present. This con dition of the teeth should be classed as an occupational disease. 252 Some Occupational Diseases of a Shell-Loading Plant. J.K. Eddy, Jr. and A.S. Tomb. Tri State Mod. J., 14, 2751-2732* 27c4~TlS42). The authors describe toxic reactions to TUT, tetryl, ammonium nitrate and snokc- ' less powder, and discuss preventive measures. ' 253 Exposure to Fumes from Hat Nitroglycerin. Queries & Minor Notes. J. A. M. A., 121. 552 (February 13, 1943). Several persons have suffered rather severe toxicity from nitroglycerin fumes, ore to the extent of a spinal cord lesion, and the composition of the fumes is asked. Nitroglycerin only is present at SO^C, but above 100 and up to the ex plosion point increasing quantities of nitrous fumes arc present. Both are dan gerous when inhaled. As little a3 mg. of nitroglycerin may cause severe poi soning. The most common symptom of nitroglycerin poisoning is severe headache, and others axe nausea, visual disturbance, flushed face, tachycardia, lowered blood pressure and excitability even to the point of mania. Some degree of habituation occurs, but it persists only a few days. Some workers apply nitro glycerin to their clothing to continue the tolerance, but such a practice is not to be recommended, on account of effects on other people, and because chronic effects ame thus masked. Real prevention must center around control of exposure through elimination of skin contact and. vapor inhalation, and alcoholic consump tion should be rigidly avoided. 4 Toxicity of Two Organic Thiocyanate Insecticides. R.J. Main and H,3. Haag. Ind. Med., 11_, 531-533 {November, 1342). ' The acute and chronic toxicities of Altrasene-solutions of two organic thiocya- r.ctcs and a mixture cf both, used as insecticides, have been established on several species of animals by different modes of administration. The results indicate that both He 0 and the mixture of Lcthcne 3G4 Special are definitely lee.- toxic than Lothnne 234, which apparently has been a satisfactory and safe insecticide. Frc-m these studies it would appear that if properly used there should be no health hazard in tho practical employment of Lotbane 284 Special as a spray insecticide. -- Authors' summary. co o9i ini Hygiene Digest - 9 _<.no roisoni?^ in Industry. R.K. Wilson. J. Lab. & Clin. Med., 27, 1517 P Lyt-aubcr, <3-942), iexample Is given, of the greatly increased hazard from benzene due to war work. A factory in the rubber industry Ind been using small quantities of benzene for Ac.-.ro, '..ithout health damage. V/ith the advent of large v:ar orders and increas ing use of synthetic rubber, i/orkerc came to the company hospital with complaints df rm.luiso, nausea and vomiting, and a fev: with bleeding. Blood counts on the ljiOd persons using benzene showed mild blood changes and slight absorption in A5 and severe blood changes and symptoms of severe benzene intoxication in 25, of v.'hom 9 wore hospitalised and 3 died. The small number of deaths was believed *.c> 5. duo to the extreme amount of treatment received, consisting of v;holo blood . mi bone marrow transfusions and liver, iron, calcium, phosphorus, yellow bone narrow and multiple vitamin therapy. Preventive measures include adequate ven tilation and constant medical supervision including frequent blood examinations. The air should bo tested frequently and the ventilation should keep the benzene concentration below 100 parts per million. No one with a leucocyte below 5000 or abovo 13000 should work in a benzene department. A urinary sulfate test after 10 days of employment should not show a ratio below 50. A drop of 25$ in any blood component is also sufficient reason for removal from the department. The Metabolism of MononitroparaffinsIII. The Concentration of Nitroethane, hi trite and Nitrate in the Blood of Babbits During Exposure by Inhalation ana Oral Administration. E.7.f. Scott. J.Ind.Hyg. & Tox., 25_, 20-25 (January, 1943). The concentration of nitrate and nitrite increased gradually in the blood of rabbits during exposure to nitroothsne by inhalation or oral administration. There was a definite correlation between the concentrations of nitrate and of nitrocthano in the blood of animals exposed by inhalation. Other primary and secondary nitreparaffins also form nitrite when injected into the animal organ ism. The only tertiary nitroparsffins studied failed to cause an increase in blood nitrite after its injection, and it is presumed that this compound does not undergo oxidative splitting in the body. -- Author* s summary. 7 Acute Experimental Aniline Intoxication. E.B. Clark, J. Van Loon and R.W. Morrissey. J. Ind. Hyg. Tox., 25,, 1-12 (January, 1943). The effects of acute aniline intoxication in the dog are reported. The most important action is the production of methemoglobinemia and thus indirectly the effects of oxygen deficiency on the various physiological systems. The mechan ism and quantitative effects of various degrees of nethemoglobin anoxia are des cribed. Due to its sensitivity to oxygen lack the central nervous system shows the greatest depression. The direct actions of aniline are demonstrable under conditions permitting high concentrations in the blood. Smaller doses produce transient.central nervous and circulatory stimulation. However, very large doses cause circulatory depression end cardiac arrhythmias. The relative roles of the methemoglobin anoxia and the direct actions of aniline are discussed. -- ;1 * hers * summary. . C V.icology of Acrylonitrile (Vinyl Cyanide). III. Determination of Thiocyanates bleed ar.d Urine. A.II. Lawton, TbR. Sweeney and K.C. Dudley. J. Ind. Iiyg. L V.. y, i 25,, 13-19 (January, 1943). l. /. method is presented for the accurate determination of small amounts of variate in biological fluids. 2. Logs exposed for 4 hours to 24 , 40, and `p.m, acrylonitrile In air show* a significant increase in serum thiocyanate :lately fallowing the exposure period end a significant increase in urinary ocyannte content 24 to 43 hours following the exposure period. Recora- t ions are made for the use of scrim and urinary thiocyanate determinations g:\ * workers exposed to acrylonitrile so as ;a of tin. nitrile. -- Authors' summary. to discover cases of dangerous nbsorp- .* P O *' ini Hygiene Digest -10 j c'~J.orcthyleng Degreasers. Indiana State Board of Health, Bureau of Industrial .'y7*'^V U|pcorsphed pamphlet, 12 pp. propertjles of trichlorcthylene are listed, and various processes of dsgrens- ore described briefly, including dipping, wiping, the vapor, vapor-spray, hot liquid-vapor and hot-liuuid-cold-liquid-vapor processes, with diagrams illus trating the last four. Symptoms arc listed, and safe practices and standard r.'cc.'unendntions are given. In summary, it is stated that, used carefully and in rrcperly designed and operated equipment, trichlorothylane is entirely safe, standard degreasing equipment installed and operated in accordance with the manuf.cturcr's instructions docs not present a definite health hazard. Remedial measures are indicated: (1) if the odor of trichlorcthylene is distinctly sssic-ablc; (2) if the solvent consumption is more than about 2 gallons per square- foot of tank area per hundred pounds of operation; (3) if the atmospheric concentration of trichlorcthylene is more than 200 parts per million. 60 Fluorine Poisoning Due to Flue Gases and Dust From a Superphosphate Works. Deter mination of the Fluorino Content of the Deposits on Plants, in Water, Hay and Rones. 14.E. Stas. Chen. V/oeklblad., 58 , 585-593 "(1941). A review of the literature is given. Plants in the vicinity of superphosphate corks were examined for fluorine, calcium and phosphorus content, as well as v.-nter from aitchos. In a cow 8.5-9.5 mg. of fluorine were found per 1 g. of bene ash, whereas the normal content in vssrious regions of Holland amounts to 0.25-lmg. 2 91 Fluorine Poisoning as the Result of Atmospheric Pollution by a Superphosphate berks, h.J.H. Eciiuursna. Chou. V,:eekblad., 38 , 533-584 ri94lj~.'' ' A careful investigation showed that the dissemination of small amounts of fluor- . ino by factories injured the health cf nearby grazing cattle and also could low er the milk production. Viator samples obtained a distance of 100 m. from a superphosphate works, skewed 2 mg. fluorine per 1. A crude phosphate that was treated had a fluorine content of 3#; the resulting superphosphate still contain ed lfj fluorine. A kg. of grass absorbed 0.2 mg. fluorine if chiefly superphos phate was scattered.. , Studios on the Physiological Effects pf_Sulfamic Acid and Ammonium Sulfamate. A.A. Ambrose. -J. Ind. Kyg. a Tox., 25. 26-28 (January, 19431. 1. The acute toxicity of sulfamic acid and ammonium sulfamate has been deter mined in rats following intraperitcneal and oral Administration. Sulfamic acid after intraperitoncal injection is considerably moro toxic than ammonium sulfa- mate. After oral administration in doses of 1.6 grams per kilogram - sulfamic acid was fatal to 25# of the rats, while ammonium sulfanatc caused no fatalities. 2. The continued oral ingestion of. sulfamic acid or ermonium sulfamate to female white rats for 105 days caused an inhibition in growth rates of rats on concen trations of 2#, but no effect on 1#, in the diet of the respective compounds. Retardation of growth on tho 2# level v:as not due to restricted food intake since food consumption cf these animals was as great as, or greater than, that of the controls. 3. Sulfamic acid, after subcutaneous injection in rat3, on the conjunctiva of rabbits, and after cutaneous application on humans was definite ly irritating, while ammonium sulfamate aid not produce any irritation. V. Circulation and respiration were not seriously influenced by the compounds after intravenous injection of 100 mgm. per kilogram. 5. From these studios it at.onrs, therefore, that sulfamic acid and ammonium sulfamate present no scr - 'uu health hazards, but that sulfuric acid is definitely more toxic by all nodes of administration. -- Author's summary. /V noj, ". : . -."I-.1 Hygiene Digest - 11 -ffifdene Broblemsin Recovery of Non-Ferrous Motals from Scrap. : ^TacTs" Labor Bull., 3, 4-6, 9 (November 30, 1942). _.-j article-, written primarily for factory operators and smelters is a thorough r.'viev; of tho hazards involved in handling non-ferrous scrap metals. The lead ;; ;:-nrc'. is considered and methods of control arc outlined. The need for good hv.::;..keeping is emphasised and effective exhaust ventilation is recommended rather than the uso of filter respirators, whose proper use is difficult. : i Industrial Poisoning Associated with Drosses. Queries & Minor Notes, J.A.M.A, ~ , 10 75 {November 28, 1942). Two men employed in a plant reclaiming drosses showed mild symptoms of multiple transient joint pains, neuritis, bleeding gums, a general malaise, and anorexia, Results of examination are negative except for slight drop in hemoglobin and red coll count. The men are in contact with tellurium, antimony, sulfur and chlorine. Load, arsenic, and zinc are common impurities in many metals, and the type and .amount of these impurities may vary daily in a metal dross reclaiming plant. Antimony poisoning is suggested by the symptoms, but there arc too few cases in this country to warrant a definite diagnosis as such. Good ventilation and the wearing of respirators aro essential for dross workers* References for antimony poisoning in the literature are given, 265 A Case of Lead Arsenate Poisoning with Recovery. H.H. Kilgore and P.S. Rhoads. J. A. M.A., Clin. Rotes. 27, 1125 {December, 1942), A careful enumeration is made of the history and symptoms of a fruit farmer who had developed lead arsenate poisoning from using tho substance as a spray. The results of determinations of the lead and arsenic content of the hair, finger nails, and urine are given. The treatment, which comprised chiefly tri weekly intravenous injections of sodium thiosulfate and extensive vitamin therapy is described. After seven weeks of tho treatment the patient, who had been exposed to tho poison for 30 years, was convalescing rapidly. 266 Encephalopathy from I^^iing Fumes from Burning Storage Battory Boxes. W.L. McNally. J. Xnd. Hyg, & Tox,, 25., 29-3Cf"{January, 1943). The careless disposal of battery boxes which results in their being used as a source of fuel has too frequently caused illness and death from lead poisoning. Ono such instance is described, in which a colored woman burned tattery boxes in her range, became ill with numerous symptoms of lead encephalopathy, and died in loss than two months after the first exposure. Numerous blood and tissue changes were found in autopsy. Industrial physicians who are consultants to Industrie# engaged in smelting battery plates should inform their employers of the danger-involved in discarding used battery boxes in public dumping grounds where the indigent class may acquire them for fuol. Health departments of the various states should enforce a rule prohibiting tho discarding of used battory boxes in public places. 267 Experimental Investigations in Lead Poisoning* H. Nanick. Arch. Gcwerbepath. Gowerbchyg., 11, 53-76 (134l). Oral closes of white lead wore administered daily to rabbits until 0.25 g. per kr. body -weight had been given. The animals died between the 8th and 16th days. The administration of 2 g. of glucose and 0.5 unit of insulin increased slightly tho number of rod cells, hemoglobin and body 'weight as compared with the control group, put did not affect the duration of life. In another group 1 cc. of ear.P'jloi; (liver extract) was injected daily along with the oral doses of white lead. Such treatment increased the duration of life of the animals as well as the eryttoocyte count hemoglobin volumes. The number of rabbits used for each experiment was small {mostly 3 to 5). u ' .:tricl Hygiene Digest - 12 *Tt`e'ct of Chronic Lead Poisoning on Arterial Pressure in Dogs. P.J. Pouts Am. Heart J. 24, 323-351 "(September, 1942]. 'To belief that chronic lead poisoning leads to arterial hypertension was tested by experiments ou dogs. No hypertension was produced by administration of lead x.c dogs* oven when over long periods of tine and in large amounts. /Ithough extensive American experience has never shown any such effects as are described in the four following abstracts, they arc presented for information, as representing the idoss of the Gorman authors quoted. 2-'3 2 ; -.arks on the Clinical Pathology and Fatheror.csis of the Aluminum Lung. 5. Goralewski unu R. Jaeger. Arch, Gowerbepatk. 11. 102-105 (1941). (German). Ilirly investigators concluded that aluminum dust doos not injure the lungs. How ever, in the present German aluminum, powder industry the aluminum is crushed more finely and the addition of fat is now avcided. The resulting increased pro duction of dust and the absence of the protecting film of fat, which prevents the formation of aluminum hydroxide, cause greater damage to the lung. The alu minum lung allegedly develops rapidly and may be fatal after only 8 months expo sure. The aluminum lung is a very special illness and should not be confused with the use of aluminum dust to check silicosis, which is/Sifferent problem. 270 Pulmonary Disease Caused by Aluminum Dust. Koclsch. Beitr. Klin. Tuberk., 97. 688-693 (1942), In opposition to Goralcwski and Jaegor, who view the causes of aluminum dust lungs as being based on chemical conditions the author believes mechanical fac tors primarily to be responsible, including unsatisfactory ventilation of indus trial workrooms on account of blackout rules, prolonged work periods and untrain ed workers. Over 150 caaos are described. 271 Clinical Examination of the Aluminum Lung. G. Goralcwski. Arch. Gewerbepath., 11. 108-116 (1941). (Germanj. Case histories of four men working in ah aluminum powder factory arc presented. The working times were 1-^, 5, 7 and 16 years. Examination, by auscultation and porcussion gave only scanty findings. The sedimentation of the blood was normal or only slightly accelerated. Dyspnoea and lymphocytosis were present and spon taneous pneumothorax was observed in 3 cases. Ho tubercle bacilli were found. X-ray pictures were made of every patient, which the author judges show charac teristic changes similar to silicosis. 272 Colloid-Chemical and Hlsto-Chemical Studies on the Question of Lung Damages by Aluminum Dust. R]~Jaemer and Jaeaer. Arch. Gewerbepath]11. 117-130 (1941). (German). The authors* experiments show that aluminum ions originate from powdered alumin um in contact with Ifo neutral sodium chloride solution at normal room temperature, Fresh colloidally dispersed hydrated aluminum hydroxide and some specially pre pared hydroxide, known as "Veroltc" compound, give an irreversible compound with the albumin of the tissues, which destroys the vital function of the cells. The authors demonstrated such compounds in slices of "aluminum lungs," and also show ed in vitro that those compounds precipitate and tan albumin and so form a layer of tanned gelatin around tho aluminum dust particles. This layer, however, is permeable to sodium chloride, said is therefore non-protecting. The effect con tinues ana the layer thickens. They reason from those results that in the lungs the aluminum dust cor.cs in contact with the tissue fluid which contains sodium chloride. In tliis environment tho reaction aluminum-aluminum ion arises and therefore compounds develop which precipitate and tan albumin. In addition, products of this reaction are formed which cause the albumin to swell and to be dissolved. TJiis continuous reaction explains the often rapid progress of the cnU 0? Industrial Hygiene Digest' - 13 changes in the lungs following excessive inhalation of aluminum lust. The authors present a theoretical explanation of the combined action of silica and 73 Luminous Paints. Protection of V.'orkpcoplc. Lancet, 628- 629 {May 23, 1942}., As long ago as 1923, women v.urkurs in the United States developed rarefying osteitis of the jaw from applying luminous peint to watch dials, using fine cam el j hair brushes which they pointed with their lips. Nov; that instruments with luminous dials aro needed by the Armed Forces, end especially by the R.A.F., the danger to those employed on this work has been anticipated and a code of regula tions called the Factories Luminising (Health and Safety Provisions) Order, 1942 has been issued. The regulations arc rigorous and protection is assured; by limiting hours of -work; by requiring cleanliness; by adequate ventilation; by -wearing protective clothing, such as overalls, hair-coverings, rubber aprons and gloves, ail of which must be washed daily; by insistence upon washing before meals; and by periodic medical examinations. Stores of luminous compound must be carefully safeguarded. 274 Industrial Dermatitis. S. Horner, Proc. Royal Soc. Med., 35_, 701-706 (September, 1942). Brief consideration is given to various causes. Radioactive substances, fric tion, overtreatment, and harsh cleaners arc indicated, in addition to chemicals.. Preventive means include: (1) selection of personnel; (2) protection by venti lation, splash guards, protective clothing and barrier substances on the skin; (3) inspection; and (4) cleanliness. The special features of dermatitis caused by chlorinated naphthalene waxes, non-ulcerating concentrations of chromic acid, . beta radiation, aircraft glues, and urctropine accelerators are mentioned. The need for practicing dermatologists to. have a personal acquaintance with plant ' conditions is emphasized. 275 Halowax Acne. Queries & Minor Notes, J.A.M.A. 121. 471 (February , 1943). The inquiry concerns a patient who has handled degaussing cables daily, and has a stubborn acnefoim condition. His wife has some of the seme lesions. The cables consist of metal strands wrapped v.lth halowax, essentially trichlornaphthalene and chlordiphenyl, as an insulator and water- and fireproofing agent, Halowax acne is common among persons .who work with these cables and do not take the recommended preventive measures. Members of the family who handle or wash the soiled clothes of workers have also developed such acnefoim lesions. Treat ment consists in preventing exposure by exhaust ventilation and by protective ointments, daily change to clean work clothes (cleaned at the factory) and com pulsory supervised shower baths after work. The individual lesions aro best treated h? incision. A strong cleansing solution should bo used for the face. Yellow at$6$hy of liver has occurred in severe cases, and liver function tests are advised for the patient. Several references to papers on halowax acnc aro given. Cutting Oils and the Skin. C. Loggo. Ind. Med., 12, 102-108 (February, 1943). The author gives a general discussion of dermatitis from cutting oils, describ ing the oils and the disease, and discussing care of the oil, classification of skins as to sensitivity, and protection of the worker, including cleanliness, protective croons and protective clothing. trial P.-iriatitir, II.3 ). - .odgrovc. Leap, Perfumery, Cosmetics. 15, GOO-602 Tills general paper on dermatitis calls attention to difference in sensitivity of skins, end the possibility of dermatitis from harsh cleaning agents. Protective formulas are recommended. r r\ p. a r. vU ^ --ini hygiene Digest - 14 . . v j-r.cn of Dermatitis in 1942. Anonymous. Ohio lad. Comm. Monitor. 16. :T_17'odru.'.ry, 1043). y.a-wts of claims filed during the past year (in Ohio) show a marked increase -- ' A-rratitis over preceding years, the claims totaling 3,309 against 2,034 for 1 ,.;i. This increase is very probably duo to the large number of new workers. "A.- tyre of dermatitis showing the greatest increase is that cciused by contact ..it:', oils. More care should bo taken to maintain preventive measures -- good ..aasake^pins, protective clothing, clean oil, and skin creams. ._r"V-~r.tior. of Skin Irritation from Line Dust. J.A.M.A. Queries Sc, Minor Notes. I? .,'bCl (November 7, 1942). :h -..erking in an industrial plant which uses large quantities of lime frequent ly suffer lime bums of tho skin. Goggles, filter-masks and gloves afford pro tection, but the men will not w ar protective clothing on the trunk because of the heat. For treatment boric or benzoic acid, with or without cornstarch are roconanendcd as better than base emollients only. Reference is made to a discus sion of protective ointments by Schwartz in "Medical Clinics of North America" for July, 1942. The following methods arc advised: maintain a high order of personal cleanliness, remove lime dusted clothing at the end of the work period; remove lime from the skin after work; use petrolatum coated plugs in the ears if necessary to prevent aural dermatitis. If line dermatitis appears, contact with line should be avoided for the time being. Erythema fron Yielding. Queries 3c Minor Notes. J.A.M. A, 121, 162 (January 9,1943} Erythema and oven vesicles resembling sunburn have been reported among welders, ; on, tho uncovered portions of the skin. This is said to be due to the actinic rays of the electric welding arc which are generated, especially in "flashes." The treatment consists in wearing clothing through which the light .rays will not penetrate or in applying protective ointments containing light screens - for in stance a zinc ointment with 10# tannic acid and 5# methyl salicylate. 1 The Lethal Effect of Triethylene Glycol Vapor on Air-Borne Bacteria and Influen za Virus. O.H. Robertson and others. Science, 9, 142-144 (February 5, 1943). I:i an extensive series of experiments, marked bactericidal action was obtained with dilutions of 1 gram of glycol in 100 million to 200 million cc. of air. Tests on tho oral toxicity of tri ethylene glycol for monkeys and rats and expo sure of the animals for prolonged periods of time to its vapors are being under taken. P. Methyl Eromido as a Fumigant for Foods. H.C. Dudley and P.A. Neal. Food Res., It 421-429 (1942). Animal feeding experiments demonstrated that milled cereal products fumigated with one pound of methyl bromide per 1000 cubic feet will probably offer no risk'when such food is consumed. 3 Ant!1rax: A Review of Sixty Cases. K. Gold. Arch. Int. Mod., 70, 735-821 'ember, 1942). Hoc a uso of the statement that the source of infection of several of the cases cf wit! rax in this review is of industrial origin quotations from the author's ary will be of interest to industrial hygienists. Sources of infection, 'ly occurrence, distribution, clinical course and methods of treatment are arsed. In 21 cases, anti anthrax scrum in large amounts (200-2,000 cc.) was al tered intravenously, and only one death occurred. In 42 cases, tront- ; w.'s with sulfonamide compounds, with excellent results in 39 cases. If a pati ent fails to respond after three days of treatment with sulfonamide compounds, -.ntlirnx treatment should be given. Use of the sulfonamide compounds is pre- blc, because they arc easier to administer, their use shortens tho period of itf.Iination nnu disability, and they are economical. - From Author's summary. . C 0 -i o n 7 v;-.I 'Hygiene ^i"cst - 15 1 ir-rof.J^oa Electrical Safety, 1950-1941. American Institute of Electrical ' .".'Ti*ct*lC'pp. 1942. Obtainable from American Institute of Electrical Engin- i.e.ocl'.uartcrs, 35 Vi 59th St., Mow York, N.Y. , at 50d. , . ; ~ bibliography includes a list of applicable standards, specifications and : - ty codes. The bibliography is divided into the following sections: (1) .1,ctricul accidents and their causes; (2) accident prevention methods; (3) safe ly codes and standards; (4) effects of electric shock, and (5) resuscitation. bui.11 s disease: Incidence, Diagnosis and Treatment; Report of Two Oases. D.VA r. Perm. Med, J. 45. 129-j (September, 1942). The author suggests that the disparity between the incidence figures for Weil's macaco and those given for certain European and Asiatic countries may be lack nf interest in the disease here, failure to make accurate diagnoses and neglect in reporting cases. Comparative figures show 10 to 15 times as many cases in small European countries as in the United States. The figures for the United States would be increased if suspected cases were thoroughly investigated by modern laboratory methods. The medical profession must become "V/cil's" disease conscious if it is to diagnose these cases. The author suggests methods of and places for searching for the leptospiras if they do not appear in their usual habitat. The disease should be reportable, end listing of immune serum donors is suggested, 296 The Improvement of Heat Tolerance in Man. B. Schlegel. Klin. Wochschr. 20, 606-510, (1941). The adrenal cortical hormone (I), when administered to persons exposed to high temperatures, relieved the subjective symptoms and caused an increased excretion of water and salt by the skin and a stabilization of the circulation. The heart muscle is apparently the point of attack. A discussion of the prophylactic use of (I) and salt in conditions due to heat is given. The only effective method for administering (I) for prophylactic use in heat injuries, is by injection. 287 Resuscitation. F.S. Kossiter. Ind. Med., 11, 479-481 (October, 1942). The author explains the dangers of permanent brain damage efter 10 minutes anoxia and the fact that artificial respiration, if initiated early, is shorter and more often successful. Artificial respiration should be continued for 12 hours un less rigor mortis has set in. Kc explains in detail both the Shafer and the older Sylvester methods, and considers the former superior. The pulmotor and the E and J rosuscitator can be used successfully during prone pressure or if the victim is unconscious. The author has had no experience of lung injuries or other objectionable fcaturos. . 230 Might Vision and Night Blindness. W.J. Hope-Robertson. New Zealand Med. J., 41, 153-166 {August, 1942). After emphasizing the present importance of night vision, the author describes methods of measuring illumination and points out that deficiency in illumination greatly increases the liability of industrial workers to accidents. The differ ence between day and night illumination is enormous, but the eye is able to in crease its sensitivity at least 50,COO times within an hour. Visual purple, vitamin A and related compounds are discussed, as are also the distinction be tween rods and cones and the distinction between scotopic and photopic vision. eor.plex subject of pre-adaptation is discussed, including value of pre-adap tation of watcliman, and the use of pre-adaptation glasses. Methods of measuring night visual capacity, and causes of night blindness are summarized. C 0 0 9 0 l Hygiene Digest - 16 Methods of Detection and Determination ; . ;-.i :ficotion of Load in Bone Tissue. L.T. Fairhall. Pub. Health Roots., 58. Id {February 5, 1945). /, method for positive identification of lead in bone tissue has been evolved .hioh permits detailed investigation of the lead deposit. The process consists .heulcification of the bone section (preferably sawed lengthwise) by a satur solution of sulfur dioxide. Ho lead is lost in the process. Sections cut . -reffin are treated with xylene, alcohols and water and are finally immersed is \n acetic acid solution of potassium chromate, slowly developing a deposit of L ,ri chromate crystals. Those are best studied under a polarizing microscope. ..uantities of lead much too small for x-ray detection are revealed by this Method. Examination of bone prepared by this method shows that while the epiphy seal portion of bone is rich in load, particularly in the early stages of lead absorption, deposition occurs throughout the compact tissue on all surfaces over which blood passes. X-ray studios of theboncs of lead-poisoned animals indicate `.hot the amount cf load, whether segregated or diffused, even in the absence of calcium, is insufficient to be revealed by ordinary x-ray photography. Deposi tion of lead vras shown to occur in the fat cells of the red marrow. Lead stor age in the bono tissue occurs first as colloidally dispersed and finally as se gregated crystalline masses. Kicrodotcrmination of Load by Dithizoae. K. Barlach and R.E, Burkoy. Ind. 3c Lhg. Chem., Anal, Ed., 14, 904-907 (November, 1942). A method for the determination of lead is given in detail. In it are incorpor ated the latest refinements in the use of dithizone as well as an improved method of eliminating bismuth. Separation of load from bismuth both of which combine with dithizone in the first extraction from alkaline solution, is accomplished by stripping the lead drou the dithizone extract with a potassium acid phthalate- hydrochlorie acid buffer solution at pH3.4. The bismuth remaining in the chloro form-dithizone extract is discarded. The method effects a 25^ saving in the working time. Ton references arc given- The Determination of Zinc in Plant Material. A. V/alkley. Australian I. Exper. Biol. &M.Sc., 20, 120-147 (September, 1942) . The method described consists essentially of a wet ashing procedure dithizone extraction and polarograpbic determination. It can easily be modified for the determination of zinc for industrial air or tissue analyses, and is applicable to the rang(^.$ to 500 micrograns. ctrogranhjb Analysis of Bat Tissue for Ingested Vanadium. E.P. Daniel, E.M. -ten and M.iV. Kies. Ind. Eng. Chom., Anal. Ed., 14, 921-922 (November, 1942). A w) pectrographic method for the quantitative estimation of vanadium in limited *r.o unts of biological material is presented. Chromium is employed as an internal r.dard in the arc spectrum and use is made of standard reference curves estab- hod by plotting the ratios of line blackening produced by standard solutions v.nadium and chromium against the concentrations of vanadium. The spectrum >- o, van. diuni 5185.40c angstrom, and chromium 51C8.0angstrcn were measured by an of a non-recording densitometer. From a number of ashou tissues analyzed ' vdims, blood samples tedion from rats fed three different levels of thus :ur.t were chosen to illustrate the applicability of the method, -- Authors' wt'.- .arm. Industrial Kygiene Digest - 17 Control Methods 233 Dust Control in Hard Headings. A. Nelson. Colliery Guard., 165. 729-733 (December 18, 1542). ' The dust control measures adopted in the mines of Amalgamated Anthracite Col lieries, one of the largo British coal mining companies, are described. Every hard heading in its collieries is regularly inspected and supervised by a staff of trained investigators. The inspection includes (1) dust sampling to determine concentration, duration of exposure, size distribution of particles ana nature of the dust, and (2) instrumental tests to determine temperature, humidity, cod ing power, effective temperature, quantity and quality of the air at tho face, presence of carbon dioxide and methane, and quantity of oxygen. Tor ventilation tho blowing system is generally most effective but in particular points a combin ation of blowing and exhaust is used. The major operations in hard headings, namely drilling, blasting and loading, are investigated through weekly cycles, by timo studies and dust sampling. Water,properly and freely used, is effective at controlling dust at its source, but is not so effective in trapping fine dust particles once they have escaped into the atmosphere. The Kay mist projector and other atomizers remove a considerable portion of the dust, but thc-y are far from a complete solution as the finer particles escape. Workmen are not permit ted to return to the face after blasting until the whole volume of contaminated air lias been replaced by clean air. It has been found impracticable to lay down uniform standards for all hard headings, particularly with regard to quantity of ventilation, cooling power and effective temperature. With reservations which are discussed, the following limiting standards have been objectively fixed for the company'a hard headings: (1) dust concentration during any activity, 12.7 million particles per cubic foot, under 10 micron size, as measured by the koni- metor; (2) effective temperature between 55 and 70F; (3) cooling power {dry kata} above 7; (4) quantity and velocity of air must not cause discomfort from warmth or cold; (5) in noimal cases bloving ventilation should bo used, but if the dry temperature is below 63 the exhaust system may be preferred, with the inlet within 5 feet of the face. A specimen form for inspection reports is given. Cooperation of management and individual workers to maintain effective dust control is stressed. 294 Use of Wetting Agents in Reducing Busts Produced by Wet Drilling In Basalt. J.A. Johnson. $7 S. Bur. of Mines, Kept, of Invos., No. 3673 2 7 pp.' (Jan."',1943). This report describes tests in wet drilling in which two unnamed wetting agents were added to the water. They were found to reduce tho quantity of dust more effective!# than v/hon water alone was used. A 0.^5 wetting-agent solution was found much more effective in wetting the particles tlian a 0.1$ solution and about equally as efficient as a 0.5$ solution. A flow of 1.7 gallons a minute through the drill steel appears to be a critical rate above which little additional im provement is secured, whether water alone or a wetting agent solution is used. Bven when two sprays totaling 2.6 gallons per minute were used on the same drill, the results were little better than at 1.7 gallons per minute. At the latter rata the average dust concentration was kept well below 5 million particles per cubic foot of air with water alone, and usually 40 to 50$ lower with an 0.2$ v/otting agent solution. A slightly faster drilling speed is attainable with tile t'.irsg agents. During tho experiments the fan delivered about 600 cubic feet of "ir par minute to tho heading where one drill was operating, in practice ade quate pressure should be nado at the drills, and water flow and ventilation shouli be ciiecked periodically. V i -i Hygiene Digest - 18 Tvacl of Filter for Dust V'erk. Monmouthshire end South VyrJ.es Coal Owners , 61&~ Report of the Coal bust Research Committee. (D.A. Hann, Chairman) ; , ; (October, 1942). /:. investigation was made to determine the feasibility of employing filters to .;:..y oust in coal mines, since water sprays cannot be used where weathering of occurs. After a amber of experiments the filtering medium chosen con . i_v-d of a mixture of coal beans and grain, enclosed between rectangular inner .a: outer cages,, the inner cage serving as inlet, and containing a single mist :r'JwCtor. This device removed 93% of the dust by weight in the laboratory cx:-.rimentc, and over 80% by weight in a full-scale test at a loading station, m/.v.ver, comparison of particle counts with the konimeter did not show as speccellar reduction as the weight ratios, because the larger particles were more uh.'roughly removed than the fine and more harmful dusts. Thore are serious limitations to the efficiency of the konimeter and the use of the thermal preci pitator for size frequency determinations might have given more enlightening results.. Federal Mine Inspection Progresses. D. Harrington. Am. Labor Legislation Her,, "2, 1 3-167 (December, 1942).*h_- article discusses the results of the first year of coal mine inspection, in stituted to supplement the mine inspection work of the various states. Inspec tions are very thorough and the response of labor and management has been grati fying. In addition to inspection, other duties of the inspectors include inves tigating accidents, examining seals around mine fires, and assisting in the ad ministration of the Federal Explosives Act.. Although the value of the program for the brief time since its inception is difficult to estimate it appears to have produced an increased consciousness for safety methods. The number of coal mine accidents has remained about the same, while accidents in American industry as a whole have increased about 20%.. The Theory and Practico of Pneumatic Convoying. J.M. DallaValle. Heat. &Vont., 09. 28-32 (November, 1342).. The basic principles and laws of pneumatic conveying are reviewed, and emphasis is placed on industrial ventilation applications. A description of the types of systems in use is given, together with the principal formulas. Air Sterilization with Glycol Vapors. Queries & Minor Notes.- J.A.M.A. 121, 301 [January 23, 1943). A newspaper publisher asks whether using a small portion of one of the glycols, incorporated into the ventilating system of the building, would sterilize the air and lessen the Incidence of respiratory infections among employees. The reply i3 that the research on the use of glycol vapors for sterilization has not yet ranched the point v:here practical application can be advocated. In particular 'r.y possible harmful effects on men ana animals must be studied very thoroughly, a;;, experiments on that point arc now being conducted. There arc also unsolved mechanical problems, such as the question whether the glycol vapor can be so introduced as to cbtain adequate concentrations in all parts of an enclosed air e:".cc. Abstract Nos. 557 & 681 (1942) deal with bactericidal action of glycols. sol ~.nd Treatment of Nitrous Fume Poisoning. , Anonymous. Ind. Hyg. , (U.S. - -Inlth Service) , 3_, C-7 (February, 1943). .'r;i\:rcnce on nitr-us l'ume poisoning was held in Cincinnati on January 23 by " '-ivseniatives of explosive manufacturers and several interested U. S. Gcvorn at bureaus. Suggested engineering control measures were: (1) ventilation; (:) '.icauatc exits; (3) proper storage of material. Several medical control :res v;oro suggested: (1) pre-employment examinations including chestx-ray3 ' ' 1 eluding persons with certain respiratory conditions; (2) nronpt report of ' C04'.0i ,\MM iygicne Digest - 19 or-.::circs as& referring the worker to the hospital; (3) recommended treatment . takers shoving symptoms of poisoning, including burning of throat or chest, i-..j:tudo, pallor, cyanosis and abnormal breathing. The treatment includes ab solute rest, keeping 'warm, supplying oxygon if necessary, liquid diet, recording of Mood pressure and pulse at regular intervals, study of the blood picture, if . Mnonary edema is developing, the following recommendations include bleeding, rlasma administration, oxygen, glucose intravenously, and trial of mercury uiurctics and adrenal cortical hormones. Prohibitions include morphine (alional cr luminal may be used), cardiac stimulants and soda. Industrial Medical Practice V.'hy l'c Employ Aged and Hindi capped Workers. Edsel Ford. Sat. Evening Post. M!3, 16-17 (February 6, 1943). Abstracted by special permission of The Saturday Evening Post, copyright 1943, by The Curtis Publishing Company. Mr. Ford begins his article with the observation that, unlike the soldier at the combat line who must be a sturdy physical being, the man at home on the produc tion line may be physically handicapped and still be a splendid soldier. Due to the manpower pinch, recognition of the usefulness of the physically impaired in dividual is ^reading to all industries and services of the country. The Ford Company is one of a number of firms who have long believed in and practiced the utilization of physically handicapped workers. In the River Rouge area 11,163 men, or more than 10$ of all mon employed there, suffer from various disabilities. Those include men partially or totally blind, epileptics, men with organic heart ailments, cripples of various sorts, etc. They all receive full pay and the company feels that the men give full value for their wages; the only assistance to them has bean the discovery of tasks which 'would develop their usefulness. This group do not expect nor receive special considerations although their follow workers are cooperative, particularly in providing assistance in transportation. The policy of the company toward the problem of age as a factor in employment is stated on the basis of findings of a survey which shows the age groupings in communities where Ford plants arc operated. More than 45% of the employees in their company are above 40 years of ago, which is appreciably higher than the average throughout the country. Since the age median of the nation is rising, industry must emphasize the employment of persons 40 years old and upward or olso the younger people will have to support themselves and their elders. Con structive activity keeps non end women iron growing feeble and becoming economic liabilities. The use of greater mechanical horse power enables an older nan to perform tacks which required the strength of a young man to perform by hand. Oiler men are not as fast nor as strong as the 20-30 year group but this is more than compensated by their experience, maturity, coolness, and accuracy. i .c Physically KanAicanned in Industrial Establishments of the Government. V rvey and E.P. Luongo. J. An. Med. Assoc., 121, ICQ-107 (January 9, 1943). joint commission representing the Civil Service Commission, the Vocational de bilitation Division, Office of Education, and the Council of Personnel Acini ration has been established to provide fuller information about the employ . ,L' es of handicapped persons and an extensive survey is being nude. The rosultiu* information is being coded according to the system of job classification er.t'.sli shad by the U.S. Employi.lent Service. The manual will bo in loosc-luaf form :. u\. eject to modifications. The usefulness cf persons with various handicaps i-~ rousnod at length, in the light of t::o information obtained in the survey. . i \ "c..rw:nt of women is a part of the picture. QQ i ' 0 - `rial Hygiene Digest - 20 ' * e>g V/orking. .Anonymous. Urol. & Cutan. Rev., 44. 042 (August, 1942). \'~Ss-:fca%^rsoa to have in the factory or office, as far as spreading syphilis i.. osr.cern^, may well be the men v.lt'n a positive V/asserman reaction who is tak- : treatment. Ho is both non-infcctious and immune. Those who have never had t::: disease may acquire it and become the focus from which it spreads. It is r.ily, therefore, to discharge persons about whom the facts are known while re- those about whoso health nothing is known. Strikes in defense plants gc the public on account of tho wasted time and slowing down of production. Th' j'ublic should bo equally enraged about the waste and delay due to venereal .^nscs. To discharge a man for having a positive V/asserman reaction looks more if:- punishment than an attempt at reasonable sanitation. Physicians and employ ers should join in an effort to minimize the lost hours. Snployees should bo instructed and safeguarded, and treated when necessary. Ur.nloynent of Epileptics. W.G. Lennox and S. Cobb. Ind. Med., 11. 571-575 {"hoc*, mb or, 1942] " . It is difficult for an. epileptic to be accepted for industrial work, even with, the labor shortage, on account of the prevailing ignorance about epilepsy and fear of liability in case of accident. A review of the laws of various states demonstrates the need of provisions by which the epileptic may work at his own risk in the event that injury is the result of a seizure. broader Horizon. K.V. Banta. Manpower Rev., {January, 1943). (Manpower Review is a periodical circulated only among War Manpower Commission officials, but copies of this paper have been distributed for publication.) Traditionally the blind have had jobs as broommekers, tuberculosis patients have been assigned light outdoor work and the person who has lost a log has been a ' crossing watchman, although tho experience of each would qualify him for entire ly different work. However, tho occupational horizon of the physically handi capped is now gradually being broadened. To those charged with their guidance, -li jobs are jobs for tho handicapped. Achieving that objective will require an Intensive and carefully executed job analysis program* Analysis should be made under actual conditions and not based on memory or hypothetical conditions. A chart of physical factors involved in each job greatly facilitates the analysis, and a typical chart is presented. Another device is the compilation of job fam ilies for the handicapped. These job families have been drawn up around a lim ited number of types of handicaps and point to the jobs which are- possible choices for persons with these physical impairments. These job families are valuable as guides only, as physical capacity must also be considered. More and more types of handicapped are being utilized in the war effort. Fuller utilization, however, will only come through carefully and intelligently applied job analysis. Problem of Absenteeism in Relation to War Production. D. Evans. Monthly Labor I'-ov., 56, 1-9 (January. 1943). " Ab.'i. ntcoism is a matter of growing concern to those entrusted with the respon sibility for war production. One large plant reports current absence rates at `"'V- for men and 7.4^ for women; another, 5.2 and 8.5^ respectively. These figures arc typical. In most reports the rate is higher for women. Absenteeism l.-o tends to be higher among older workers,- and increases as the work week is wengthoned. Causes of involuntary and voluntary absenteeism arc discussed. The ` - f causes of strictly involuntary absenteeism arc sickness and accident. ino causes include long hours, housing shortages, transportation diffi- ' p; ing necessities, end visits tc doctors, dentists and lawyers. An r*. mt factor in purely voluntary absenteeism is the worker's morale, high ''-a (with qualifications), overtime for Saturday and Sunday irrespective of ' a.co on ether days (now discontinued). The subject of high wages, however, : ''.wires qualification. Remedies for involuntary and borderline absenteeism co ;;.o Hygiene Digest - 21 !. .vo been frequently discussed - health programs, plant meals, cooperation in h./asing and transportation programs, etc. Voluntary absenteeism can be control led by rem#ding the worker of the importance of the job, end by requiring writ ten reasons^ with dismissal r.vhon absences become excessive. Disapproval by fellow workers is an important deterrent, and in some cases unions and labor com mittees have been effective. , ; ,w .-ntccisn in Commercial Shipyards, 1942. E.V. Kennedy. Monthly Labor Rev,, ; 111-122 (February, 19-13). Absenteeism in commercial shipyards fluctuated around 7 or 8?$ from April through October 1942. This is equivalent to 4 hours per week for each wage earner. In yards along the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf Coasts absenteeism rates were higher than in yards in the Great Lakes and Inland areas. The rates varied greatly from one yard to another and from month to month. In general, large yards had liighcr rates of absenteeism than small yards; thi3 fact may explain the geograph ical differences. The discussion of causes and remedies follows the same course as many other papers, but fairly definite reports on the extent of absenteeism from various causes are presented. Poor housing, bad transportation and the necessity of recruiting inexperienced workers were considered the major causes. Sickness and accident did not ploy a large part. High earnings did not seem to be a major cause, as absenteeism fluctuated without much relation to wages, "leather is an important factor in the shipbuilding industry, as much of the work is outside. Two companies reduced absenteeism by aid in securing houses and by securing shuttle train service. One reduced weekly hours from 58 to 4S and thereby reduced absenteeism by 50j$. 207 Absenteeism and Mortality in the Portland Cement Industry, 1941. Portland Cement Assoc., September, 1942. Mimeographed, 43 pp. ' This annual report is the seventh issued by the Association, and covers the calendar year 1941. The field covers 56 cement plants, employing nearly 10,C0C persons. The data are presented in 26 tables and 6 cherts. The rate for all respiratory illnesses is lower than in the preceding year, with the exception of a slight increase in influenza and grippe. For comparison with other industries, the data from only the plants in the Middle Atlantic and East North Central state: are used, because the industries reporting to the U.S. Public Health Service are confined to those localities. In only two groups of respiratory illnesses - bronchitis and chest colds, and pneumonia - is the rate higher for the cement industry. The rates in the cement industry arc definitely lower for influenza diseases of the pharynx and tonsils, and miscellaneous diseases including sinus raid upper respiratory illnesses. In another comparison, the frequency of res piratory illnesses is tabulated by months in the cement industry and in a group of amployoca in various industries. Based on the yearly rate the cement industry is 3.1?$ higher over the year, higher in the first and fourth quarter of the year and lov?er in the second and third quarters. The influenza epidemic raised the rate for that illness, especially among outdoor workers. The rate for pneumonia among outdoor workers dropped over 50^. Burner's had a 14/j higher respiratory illness rate than in 1940. The mortality for respiratory illnesses foil from 1.C2 to 0.30. In digestive diseases, there has been a general improvement in those of short duration. Diseases of the heart and coronary arteries are signi ficantly leaver than at anytime in the last 6 years. Rheumatism, neuralgia and neuritis had a lower frequency than any time within tho last 2 years, except for illnesses of less than 8 anys. More cancer, however, is noticed. Mortality fzem heart, artery, and nervous system decreased. The most severe injuries to r.-u'.cn nva.y from hone exceed plant injuries by nearly 21 to 1. In injuries lasting less than 3 days, the ratio is G.j to 1. Many aduiticnal details aro t'i von. C 0 '!' /y ;trial Hygiene Digest - 22 y;--t Aid toy the Industrially Injured. C. Leggo. Ind, Med., II, 481-482 ('"closer, i&>lzV+ yirjt aid ifrk in factories should be supervised by physicians connected with the plantar-even though only with "on call" agreements, if law suits because of inadequate or unjustified treatment are to be avoided. Adequate supplies, in thv; hands of a graduate of a Rod Cross course are important but not entirely sufficient. The physician, the management, and the insurance company should see that minimum standards are observed. ;J Vital Statistics, Standard Oil Comnany (New Jersey) and Affiliated Companies: A T-.r. Year Review, 1952-1941. R.C. Pago. Med. Bull," (processed) , Standard Oil Co., b_, 236-291 (September, 1942). During the ten.-year period, over a million persons were under the direct super vision of the medical department. The average disability per worker per year was 4.79 days. Venereal diseases played no major role in time lost, but the nixiber of cases especially in parts of Venezuela and Colombia, assumes large proportions. The use of sulfonamides for gonorrhea has greatly improved the situation. All cases of syphilis are hospitalized during the infectious stage. As long as the employee cooperates the management is not informed of his trouble; if not, he is recommended for disc'large. Eaployeos appreciate the interest shown in their behalf, and not only cooperate in connection with treatment but also work efficiently. 310 Disabling Mortality Among Industrial Workers^ Second Quarter of 1942. W.M. Gafafer. Pub. Health Rents., 5j7, 1620-1622 (October 23, 1942). During the second quarter and first half of 1942 the pneumonia rate continued relatively high. Diseases of the stomach, except cancer and diarrhea and enter itis, show notable increases in frequency. The rates for these two cause groups for the second quarter, and for the first half, are the highest recorded for the years 1933-1942. They are compared with the corresponding means based on the years 1933-1942, and show excesses of 25^ and 3$ for the second quarter and the first half, respectively. 311 Medical Service Plans Outlined for Larger Industrial Plants of State. A.R. Smith. N.Y. State Ind. Bull., 22, 43-45 (January, 1943). In the concluding paper of the series, the author first discusses excessive fatigue and its prevention. Causes within the plant include poor health, mon otony, poor physical or psychological adaptation to job, excessive hours of work, irregular shifts, excessive speed, noise, vibration and concentration, heavy lifting, dofective posture, defective ventilation and lighting, inadequate food and drinking wator, inadequate sanitary facilities, and extremes of temper ature. A^tjip&o&al non-occupational causes are traveling long distances to work in crowded' conveyances, and home worries. The program for prevention of these caucos covers quite a field, but a medical department which has carried out its proper functions will have gone far in its fatigue-prevention program. Rest periods should bo obligatory, and a 10 to 15 minute period in mid-morning and mid-afternoon is satisfactory in most industries. Shift changes should bo iaade infrequently, best at intervals of several months. In the schedule recommended by the Division of Labor Standards the shifts begin and end at noon, 8 PM and 4 All. This arrangement effects a minimal displacement of the usual sleeping hours and no one would be compelled to sleep in the afternoon. Recommendations for eliminating other causes of fatigue include noise suppression by various . means, good posture, change of job, solution of home difficulties, recreational activities and improvement of psychological attitudes. In the last three sec tions of the x^apor, occupational diseases, health education, ana records are dis cussed very briefly. For health education, talks by the medical director and others, movies, leaflets and posters are recommended. 004.10:; Hygiene DiCst - 23 . . i Crre for Cr.all Industries. Anonymous. Ind, Hyg. (U.S.Pub. Health . i-vil-cT, 3., 4 {February, 1943). I:. York City a group of small industries has been considering a plan to pro- v:-.io nodical care for their v.-orkc-rs on a cooperative basis. The plan was drawn ..* chair request by Group Health Cooperative, Inc., a non-profit medical ir.sur- ;.rL.-e organisation. The tentative plan includes in-plant services through full time industrial physicians (one per 2000 employees) r.nd nurses {one per 500 cm- loyeoe). The in-plant services would include emergency treatment of accidents _.:.d illness while on the job, pro-employment periodical and post-absence physi cal examinations, supervision of plant hygiene, and cooperation in safety pro- P~r':ms in health education. The industrial physician would render only emergency treatment in compensation eases, and the patient would be free to choose his own. .hysisian for subsequent care, as the New York State law requires. Correlated with these services is provision by home and office care and diagnostic special ist service for non-industrial conditions. This service would be rendered by a panel of doctors, and the employee would have free choice of physician. He nay also select his own physician to conduct physical examinations. This service v/ould bo financed by the employer at 1.42 per month per employee. For each home visit the employee would pay the physician $1.00. The same organisation has in operation a plan for surgical, obstetrical and in-hospital medical care for *9.60 a year for an individual or $24 for a family, 513 Industrial Aspects of Peripheral Vascular Disease. L.I-T. Atlas. Ohio State lied. J., 39, 258-240 (March, 1943). - Peripheral vascular diseases or their complications, acquired as the result of industrial accidents arc of considerable importance for several reasons. They are very disabling, and the disability frequently continues for`a long time. . However, there is not only the economic loss to consider, but the anatomical and' functional integrity of the limb is also frequently at stake, and occasionally life itself is threatened. Finally, a significant percentage of these cases need never occur if persons suffering from peripheral arterial or venous disease 'were no.t permitted to work at jobs where the danger of injury, particularly to the feet and legs, constitutes a recognizable industrial hazard. The diseases con sidered are arteriosclerosis, arteritis, Raynaud's disease, pneumatic hammer disease, frost bite, traumatic spasm of the anterior scalene muscle, traumatic vasomotor dystrophy, varicose veins, effort thrombosis of the axillary vein, end traumatic thrombosis of the deep veins of the calf. Arteriosclerosis and arter itis are not in themselves occupational, but a local injury can aggravate the severity of either pre-existing disease. Individuals suffering from Raynaud* s disease can not work where they are exposed to cold, or where their fingers are exposed to trauma or to irritating substances. Varicose veins axe subject to traumatic complications. The remaining diseases may result directly from trauma and are offc#n occupational. Treatment of each of the diseases is discussed, 314 Nature of the SRay Effect in Carbon Monoxide Recovery. T.A. Cameron. Proc. doc. Rxper. Biol, and Med., 0, 234-236 (1942). Irradiation with x-rays accelerate recovery from carbon monoxide poisoning by increasing the depth and frequency of respiration. The effect appears to be on the respiratory centers. On rats and rabbits less than B days old the effect is not produced because of some difference in the activity of their respiratory ' centers. Ripchi-r.ical Control of Cancer. M. Copisarow. Edinburgh Mod. J., 49, 425-423 Ul-ii: "1 ivvLew dealing with combined biotherapy and chemotherapy of cancer, and vith industrial cancer and the purification of'lubricating mineral oils. 30 refer ences. C0 09 * . Kyeic&0 Digest - 24 . -- ills in Industry. Its Relation to Industrial Dermatoses. L. Schwarts and j*~y.nr~:el & Cutan. Rev. t 4c, &81-53S TSepteaber, 1942). Or. account 'jpi'the wide scope ox' compensation laws, industry must provide a med ic:11 progrdP-.aot only to protect the employer against unjust claims bu also to protect tertiary syphilitic employees from chemicals or working conditions which may aggravate syphilis or from industrial poisonings, such as from load, carbon bisulfide and nitro compounds, the symptoms of which may simulate those of ter tiary syphilis. Therefore, preemployment physical examinations should include blood tests for syphilis. The determination of etiology is difficult, if not impossible, when symptoms later develop in the vascular or nervous systems of tertiary syphilitic workers. Employees handling compounds such as lead, which produces manifestations similar to tertiary syphilis symptoms should be examined once a year. Those handling food or food wrappings should also be examined once a year. Employees with latent syphilis or receiving active ap. cific therapy should not be exposed to substances such as ether, alcohol, DMT, TNT or aniline, but they may be 3afely employed one year after treatment has been discontinued. Differentiation of skin manifestations of syphilis from industrial dermatoses is fully discussed. 317 Recommendations to State and Local Health Departments for a Venereal Disease Con trol Program in Industry. O.L. Anderson, and others. J.A.M.A., 120. 828-831 (November 14~1942). The most effective venereal disease control program will be one in which tho em ployer, the employee, the medical profession and the state and local health de- . partnents cooperates. The Advisory Committee to the TJ.S. Public Health Service on Control of Venereal Diseases, recently appointed, recommends such a program. It includes an educational program, examinations with results kept confidential, an employment policy under which other workers are protected and the diseased worker is net exposed to aggravating hazards. A conference and follow-up system is suggested. 318 Educational Social Hygiene. Extension to Industrial Employees for the Control of Gonorrhea and Syphilis. I.A. Storey"! Ind!~M~ed!7 Ti!~ 411-414 (Sept. ,1942). Tho American Social Hygiene Association concentrated its services in 1940 and 1941 on social problems of cur aimed forces, and is now focusing its attention particularly on social hygiene problems of men and women engaged in war industry. The approach to tho problem may be made through (1) plant facilities; (2) commun ity facilities; (3) lebor organizations; (4) trade training courses, classes or schools; (5) public school and college student health programs. 319 Some Medical Problems of Vesicant Chemical V.'arfare Agents as Affecting Civilian Population!*' L. Goldman. Bull, of N.Y. Acad, of Med. 19., 57-71 lJanuary,1943). The vesicaoS agents, chiefly mustard and lewisite, because of their toxicity, persistencyJ-aad penetrability are responsible for most of the complexities of the scheme for the defense of civilian populations against chemical warfare. The physician is a very important part of this defense scheme. Ho must secure spe cial training in the medical aspects of chemical warfare to carry out his role. Such training programs arc available,at present. Little is known of the theories of the action of vesicants. A great deal is known of their toxicology and path ology and of their specific prophylaxis. The treatment of the resulting lesion is purely symptomatic, namely that of a vcsiculo-bullous, resistant and pruritic dermatosis with strong sensitizing properties. Mustard and lewisite dermatitis arc net strange or mysterious n ladies to the dermatologist. Por those vesicants '1th systemic poisoning components, such as the arsenical compound, lewisite, therapy for this systemic phase should be given also. Decontamination of an in dividual will be done most effectively by tho individual himself. The evacuation of tho, actual casualty must bo done in a different mode from other w rfaro 004107 Hygiene Digest - 25 cruaitics^gtnco all cases contaminated by vesicants are dangerous to handle. .. `.ho tedSlical phases of decontamination the physician rail have the help of a *. r"-incd nc^Bied-ical gas officer and the industrial physician will have the help :.r his plant gas officer. The educational program of the physician must also ado measures to prevent psychoneuroscs which would bo expected in large civilian groups. With his knovriodgo of the principles of prevention and therapy, i:..' trained physician will bo able to cope with any new agents which may be used, ia all these ways, tho physician vri.ll learn the real role of chemical warfare . ".ir.st civilians and vri.ll avoid acquiring for himself and consequently spread- by teaching, tliose factors of overemphasis, exaggerations, panic and fears, 1reactions so earnestly desired by enemy propaganda services. -- Author's _v,r.cl unions. l`I a cement and Health Maintenance for Women in Industry. M.R. Burnell. Ind.lied., l.l, L21-523 (November, 1942). It is of importance that women receive a thorough physical examination before being placed at work. Motherhood remains the chief function of this great group of employees. When tho emergency is over and many of them have returned to their homes, industry should know that every possible precaution was exercised to pro tect that function. Therefore an accurate knowledge of their physical condition is necessary at all times* and definite programs of health maintenance must be rigidly followed. Safety and Health Problems of Women in Industry. Anonymous. Labor Inf. Bull., (U.2. Dept. of Labor), 9_, 5-7 (December, 194277" '..'omen are no more inherently liable to accidents than men. Inexperience is a fruitful cause of accidents, and great numbers of women in war industries are inexperienced. They should bo trained on a non-production basis rather than learn the technique of the new' occupation in the course of production. Safety clothing is essential, and the worker's cooporation and judgment on clothing should be'enlisted rather than by arbitrary rule. The whole problem of safety of women workers hinges on good supervision. A woman on the administrative staff will often solve problems where women workers are concerned. Home occupations must be considered as a factor in fatigue. `iVcr.cn in Industry. Safe Practice Bull., No. 107. National Safety Council. 3 pp. The General headings of the pamphlet arc: (1) selection'and placement of work ers; (2) training; (3) supervision; (4) accident prevention; (5) occupational disease, and (6) mental and physical health. In connection with selection and placement^ jpre-placement physical examinations should always bo given. The ex amining pSSiiician should have full information regarding the duties to be per formed afflF^feould consider fitness in connection with the examination. In the section OB' accident prevention, suitable adjustments of machines and safety clotlring are considered as factors in safety. Limits for heavy lifting, set by various industries and states, arc discussed. The question of fatigue is also to be considered. There is no authoritative information on greater sensitivity of women to occupational diseases than men, but both women and men should be protected from unsafe quantities of toxic materials. Exposure of pregnant oi.'.cr. to lead, carbon monoxide, carbon disulfide, nitrobenzene, mercury, benzene carbon tetrachloride should especially bo avoided. Factors in mental and i Leal health ere morale, sanitation, and good housekeeping. Women personnel ' :v: :vr.a are of assistance in some companies, and in any case frequent inter-'lev.. S'-luful. .rial nHyyigiene Digest - 26 V--.(.-i E.W. Pittsburgh Med, Bull., 3, 210-212 (March 13, 6S.49^f the employees of the Bell Telephone Company of Pennsylvania are .-aca, whiclPls an increase of 3$ since Pearl Harbor, The company believes that me coos in employing women is due to the fact that they must meet the same phys ical requirements as men, and that when employed they receive the sane consiaoruticn. Women physicians, employed by the company examine female applicants and also examine women employees who are absent from work more than 7 days because of illness or accident. Treatment to employees is only emergency in nature, and they are referred to the family physician if further medical care is needed. Tho i.-. .ileal staff pays particular attention to placement of handicapped employees, Special treatment is given to applicants with correctible defects. 324 Feeding 'Workers for Health and Efficiency. 1.0, Dodge. Industry, 8, 18-22,40, 42 (February, 1943)7 _ The purpose of the article is to arouse interest in nutrition as an aid to im proved industrial health. Due to tho manpower shortage it is essential to make the most efficient use of available man and woman power by providing the proper food to help offset nutritional deficiencies that sap the physical strength and undermine the mental outlook. Employers as well as laborers should consider the subject of dietetics. Suggested means for meeting the need are: (1) sound nutritional programs in the cafeteria, preferably plant ov/ned; (2) mid-meal supplementary feedings; (3) educating the housewife in the preparation of better box lunches or the sale of box lunches in plants where there are no cafeterias; (4) use of the "Oslo" meal -which could be put up outside the plant; (5) education of the worker in nutritional values by showing films prepared by manufacturers or insurance companies; (6) use of posters. The distinction is made between nutritionists, who motivate better nutritional habits by teaching their importance and dietitians, who secure improved nutritional health by feeding the proper food. 325 Dietary Conditions in Industry. R.. Goodhart. J.A.M.A. 121. 93-96 (Jan. 9,1943). Tho author discusses tho results of several surveys of factory cafeterias end rolling kitchens and food carts, with regard to the nutritional value of the meals obtained. The food with proper nutriment and vitamin content was selected by a minority of employees, 25$ at best. In some cases milk and fruit juices were not chosen on account of higher prices for them than for soft drinks. Even when that factor was not present, they were not bought as much as they should be. Nutritional deficiencies have been found in a number of workers. The remedy lies in education of employees in food values. 326 Nutritloa^bfereases Production at Servel. Anonymous. Institutions Mag., 12, 15, 30 (jp^ry, 1943). New foatuwi^introduced at the factory cafeteria of Servel, Inc. included attrac tive renovation, publicity of the slogan "Eat to Beat the Devil," and a "Victory" lunch, consisting of meat, salad, vegetable, milk and bread and butter, for 25 cents. Desserts are also obtainable but the food value of the Victory lunch is publicized. A weekly drawing prize also encourages workers to buy the Victory lunch. The cafeteria no?/ serves meals at 29 different lunch periods. The total volume of milk sold increased 80$, Absenteeism has been reduced by 16$ over a similar period last year, end the accident record has been lowered. Psychology and Industrial Nutrition Prorrams. L.S, Selling. Ind. Med. , 12, 6`--73 (February, 1943), Industrial nutrition programs arc discussed from the standpoint of the psychol ogist. It is the duty of the plant physician, not only to see that the food supplied at cafeterias contains the proper nutrients but also to educate the personnel with regard to proper nutrition, and to urge so far a3 possible that 00 IfV; . `..i.'J. Hygiene Digest - 27 < i.,j food 1>3^jit from home be wholesome. Provision, should be made, if possible, for -j v;c-l!^8Tanccd meal at the plant, sufficiently cheap and appetising to : Li cage tali5 habit of bringing lunch from home; if not, some means of supplc- r.-. sting the iiomo lunch should be provided so that the worker will be stimulated `,,u <..at the needed food elements that arc naturally omitted. The various mental f-iciors, such as attitudes traditions, interests and habits of the workers should bo t:d:on into consideration, in order to provide meals which will appeal to thorn r.nd which will at the same time carry the nutritive elements that will bo of most value. . .\b Report of the Bureau of Industrial Hyf'icne (State of Connecticut). A.S. Gray, Director. 56th Report of the Connecticut State Dept, of Health, pp. 61-113 (lS4l) Tiiis report fully presents the results of the routino work of the Bureau, with statistics, for the fiscal year ended Tunc 30, 1941. A total of 540 surveys were made, in greatly varied fields, 16 educational publications were prepared, .uid 38 lectures and 4 radio talks were given. Recommendations from the surveysbenefited over 6300 workers. A total of 620 cases of occupational diseases was reported. 3:;y Occupational Diseases and the Industrial Accident Commission of Maryland. J.A.M.A., Current comment, 120 , 626 (October 24, 1942). .......... . The First Annual Report of the Nodical Board for Occupational Disease, Maryland Industrial Accident Commission, purported to be the first document of its kind in this country clarifies a situation brought about by the lack of information about many important professional relationships in the administration of work men's compensation. This report gives not only statistical analyses, but also abstracts of all claims heard, the observations of the Medical Board and the final opinion of the Workman's Compensation Commission itself. The abstracted caso reports and the opinions of the Medical Board should be of value to students of compensation fad the medical profession at large. 320 Industrial Medical Practice. W.I. Clark* Ind. Med., 11, 510-513 (November,1942). A brief history of the development of health service for factory workers is followed by an analysis of such a service emphasizing three fields: industrial hygiene, industrial practico, and industrial toxicology. Health service in its relationship to the plant's engineering, safety engineering and employment de partments is discussed, together with the various duties involved in medical supervision. A list of the minimum requirements for a proper medical service in industry as given by the American College of Surgeons and a second list of provisions Seceded to make this service entirely adequate, conclude the article. 331 Public Haaffijf1 and Medical Relationships in Industrial Health. O.J. Johnson. Am. J. Fub. Health. 32, 1157-1163 (October, 1942). The importance of industrial hygiene, "preventive industrial health" is not yet generally comprehended. Single groups, including the practising medical profes sion, nurses, management and labor have not yot the right standpoint towards pre vention. It is often believed that the "Outline of procedure for physicians in industry" of the A.M.A. applies only to large institutions. The author discusses the responsibilities of the physician, the nurse, health officers, workers and employers. C 0 4i 0 INDEX (March, 1943) '-yd rn " ity ; C^nent .entry 307 ip;-."d3 . ruuuction 306 305 .: m dust yy irritation .V d- 270-271-272 . in bones J-dithizone .r.odiun .r.c 289 290 292 291 ; lino - -- -;cute Intoxication 257 /.nthroc " ;r. :e review 283 medicine occupational hazards 243 ii^asgosis 248 one poisoning 2o5 2 me or tnorapy 315 Cr-rbon monoxide poisoning X-ray therapy Dermatitis 314 274-277 and syphilis 316 chloro-v;axes 275 cutting oils lime dust 276 279 statistics, 1942 278 Disinfection glycol vapors, 298 triethylene glycol vapor lust control 281 coal mines 293 nuv; typo filter 295 .v.tting agents 294 ;_`jyc_tr_icnl hazards i'^4l _ "i'iey.moiit 303 .'ili1 } oizoning -2CO--261 Foundries non-ferrous fume concentrations 249 ilc.ndi canned, yjorkors _ employment of 300 government 301 Heat tolerance improvement in 66 Industrial hygiene and public health 331 Report Connecticut 1941 328 Industrial medicine 330 first aid 308 Insecticides organic thiocyanates toxicity 254 Load arsenate poisoning 265 Lead poisoning battery cases 266 blood pressure 268 experimental 267 Medical service large plants 311 small plants 312 Metal poisoning Methyl bromide fumigant 282 Mining industry inspection progress 296 Mortality Second quarter, 1942 310 Munitions industry health hazards ' 252 Nitrogen oxides poisoning treatment 299 Nitroglycerin vapor exposure 253 Nitroparaffins metabolism 256 Non-ferrous metals health problems 263 Nutrition and production and psychology 326 327 in industry 324-325 Occupational disease Maryland cornualssioa 329 Physically handicapped employment of 304 Pickling motels acid fumos on teeth 51 Pneumatic conveying theory and practice 297 Radioactive substances luminous paints 73 Resuscitation 287 Silicosis chert miners 244 etiology 245 Sulfamic acid toxicity 262 Sulfur dioxide refrigerant hazard 250 Toxicology 258 Treatment of casualties 319 Trichloret hyle ne degreasers 259 'Tuberculosis experimental end silica 246 Vascular disease 313 Venereal diseases control ' 317-318 employment policy 302 Vision night blindness 288 Vital statistics oil industry 308 Weil* s diseaso 285 Welding erythema 280 Women in industry 320-321-522-523 abrasives hazard 247 004^ <