Document Z4YkL6pZyLo54DZe5Za9XVZDp

PHOMC Cam) 46A-S3S3 UvHion oi SaMv and */**<* WILLIAM b MURPHY luparintenMnl OR RILCV AaM. tawlAltddM Risk # SI-2823 On Kay 26, 1976 an industrial hygiene Inspection was conducted throughout the plant. The only air samples taken were for carbon monoxide. They were taken at various locations throughout the plant. The samples were taken using a Draegar hand pump plus Dracgar direct reading carbon monoxide tubos. The readings ranged between 5 and 35 parts per million (ppm) in the breathing zone of various employees. The American Conference of Governmental Indus trial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommends a Threshold Limit Value (TLV) of 50 parts per million (ppm). No other samples were taken because the writer felt Buch samples were not necessary. This statement is directed to the styrene molding operations. Because of sampling conducted in the past, the writer has determined that with current knowledge of toxic material, a health hazard docs not exist when some plastics (l.e. styrene) are run at normal operating temperature. When plastics decompose (l.e. burn) then a health hazard exists. The The decomposition products will be discussed below. No machines during the time of the survey were noted to be decomposing the plastics. The following are observations and recommendations offered for your con sideration: ' A. One molding mackl . brought to my attention had what appeared Co be a tendency to leak plastic from the cylinder. This leaking plastic has a tendency to get very hot and possibly decompose. Decomposing styrene plastic will release noxious materials, some of ';hcse being carbon monoxide, acrolein, hydrogen cyanide, formaldehyde, and styrene. When possible, prevent the decomposition of any plastic material. B. The carbon monoxide levels were below the TLV. This was due, 1 feel, to good dilution ventilation and at the time of the Inspection well tuned lift truck. For these carbon monoxide levels to be maintained at the low concentration the above fe-tors must be maintained. 'y -2- C. When you get the analyxlx for the cellophane, If you atlll viah for the Division to assist you please contact us. Lastly, If you should require further assistance fron the Division In the future, contact E.W. Tyler, Departaent Head, Industrial Hygiene and Safety. Sincerely yours. Dale Selchan Industrial Hygienist Jv