Document b5QagnEJKKB7L9n256noLJj2y

!I M1 ite\atuie Ohsfaacts 9 MEDICAL 9 ENGINEERING LEGAL - - decisions and trends {Indusfatal Health 7lews J L.. . . 5.J hiurxi .\f,,nihlr By INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE FOUNDATION *UGO rir'TH AVENUE PITTSBURGH. PA. f' 1013. Industrial Hygiene Foundation, 4400 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa. INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE DIGEST Literature and News News Items Dramatizing the Effect of Absenteeism. Company managements arc displaying considerable ingenuity in trying to impress employees v.lth 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 nocn, the heel of a slave ship, "The Absentee," in the form of a long black piece of plywood, was laid in the presence of large numbers of employees. Addresses wore 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 havo not been built. In his speech, "Hitler" announced that the Absentee Workers Association has 2,000 men laying off the job every day, with 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 amount of merchant shipping." The man representing Mussolini stated that to become a paid-up member of 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 store- made buck teeth. At first the thousands of yard workmen v?ere vastly amused by the satire; whoa they returned to work they were not laughing. -- Management Hocord, 5^12 (January, 1943). Sillcosis Record. Since silicosis became compensable in Ohio on July 31, 1937, a total of 1,144 silicosis claims have been filed with the Industrial Commission. Of this number 4G9 have been allowed, 517 disallowed end 138 are still pending. During Decem ber, 1942, 17 silicosis claims wore approved and compensation awarded and an equal number were disallowed. -- Ohio I:id. Comm. Monitor, 1J3, 8 (January, 1943). Dr.rloyncnt of Younfr: Persons. -:V':u:;rds for the health, welfare and education of American youth whose sorvicos arc being demanded by the war program v.vrc advanced by c* statement of pulley approved by the V.'ar Manpower Commission end signed by Paul V. McNutt, Chairman, and released for publication February 7. Among the restrictions on ahe employment of youth under 18 years of ego, the following are of special interest. They may be employed: (a) in work suited to their age and strength, U U ; v;... Ir.v.istrial Hygiene Digest - 2 avoiding ail occupations that are hazardous to health or welfare; (b) where pro vision 13 m$de 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 caso 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 New 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 arc being considered. Ind. Hyg., (U.S.P.H.S.), 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 Eye 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 time losses due to work accidents," Secretary Perkins 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, 62 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 236 ?hl>-^..:cia fd.be Dol. ns. Resulting from Pnjur.cr.ia Suffered by Store Znployoc. infosod to..Ch-nging Ao^iq^rr.tures in Building in Course of Employment. Lack of Evidence to Show Proximate Cause. This 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 te pay the plaintiff's salary during his disability. Plaintiff was employed in defendantrc store. The plaintiff's work included the maintenance of department stock from supplies in the stockrooms, replenish ing and changing solos 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 ana stockrooms. The plaintiff 00400:3 Ir. sustrial Hygiene Digest - 3 complained of the cold near the entrance acorn and in the display windows. He suffered with a cold, was tired and rundown, and on December 16, 1936, he had a fever and fainted. He was sent home and confined to his bed with pneumonia. Three weeks later, the doctor discovered ho was afflicted with phle^asia 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 rr.iity 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 v.-hatever 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 solary 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. Moscall 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 work 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 he 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. Buddy w&3 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 meaning of the Compensation Act. The rale supported by the weight of authority is that heat prostration which results from the employee's engaging in the employ ment, whether due to unusual or extraordinary condition or not, is to be deemed 'un accidental injury within the meaning of the statutes. Such an injury is 'cci- dented in that it is unforseon and unexpected. Judgment reversed and who award is sustained. Smith ot si. v. Southern Builders, Inc, ot el. So. Car. Sup. Ct. Decided January lo~, 1945. (Cdl!). Hygiene Digest - 4 ;..-j Poisoning Causing Death of Painter. Liability of Employer for Aggravation jTTTeceasod^s.Prior i^^unt^jCory\ition. as.-Vic t im_of Lend_ Poisoning. Uocvssed had been a house painter for defendant about eighteen months when he yucnr.0 suddenly ill vrith abdominal pains, nausea and fever, ell symptoms of lead poisoning. He 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 weeks and eojpitc diagnosis and treatment by several physicians developed further typical symptoms, neuritis and mental deterioration until his death. All of the physi cians 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 Iced into ius system, and whether he 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 the re sulting dust containing lead. If the inhalation of load 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 and 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. Chatman Construction,Company, ct al. So. Car. Sup. Ct. Decided January 22, 1943. Tcchk " 39 Total end Permanent Disability.__Employee Poisoned by Ammonia Gas or Sewer Gas from Sur.D- Tank ct Meat Packing House. Plaintiff instituted this suit under tho Workmen's Compensation Act for total aadpemanent 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 amnoilia 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 ore 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 scon thereafter ho was raised to his feet again but could not stand. Plaintiff was carried td'tho sanitarium, whero he remained for seven days under the treatment of a physician chosen and paid for by defendant. Plaintiff complained of dizziness and severo 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 when necessary but always using a szick or cane. Plaintiff alleged tho accident was- caused by inhaling ammonia gas. The doctor who treated plaintiff never treated him for poison gas but considered Mm o malingerer. The medical testimony is very unsatisfactory. Judgement is reversed for plaintiff. Collins v. Armour & Company, Ltd. La. Ct. of App., 2d Cir. Decided December 14, 1942. i^CChT. CO V I j-c .is trial Hygiene Digest' - 5 I'.-'.t Kxhaustion Resulting in Death of Boiler-Maker. Repairs as Being Not V.'ithcut (h:urso of Bjffioymcnt. I>ccccientt*a*5o5icr-iaoJccr, 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 v/as the sale of road and paving materials. De cedent, whenever called by defendant, charged for his services at an hourly rate. He was carried on defendant's payroll and was covered by a policy of Workmen's Compensation insurers along v.lth all of defendant's employees; defendant also made payments on his behalf under the Unemployment Compensation Lav/ and 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 arc 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 tho industrial concerns where ho worked and v/as not in the regular employ of any of them. In his relation v.lth the defendant he was employed to accomplish a definite result, i.c., to repair a particular boiler and 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 ana 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. ICCH). 241 Occupational Diseases. Silicosis as Primary Cause asDistinguished from Immedi ate Cause. Lowering of Vitality Not Compensable Under Apt. This is a claim for workmen's compensation for total disability for death alleged to have been caused by silicosis, filed under tho Workmen's Occupational Disease Compensation Act. The finding of the Board v/as for the .claimant, widow of de 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 v/hat 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 was suffering in a serious stage, except that the silicosis lowered his resistance. It is well established in our workmen's compensation lav; that an accident, or an infection that results from it, which merely lowers the injured employee's vitality and resistance to genn 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 tho findings of fact on which the award rested, and from which the board deteroined that silicosis v/as the primary cause of death. Judgment reversed for tho defendants. Stauffer v. Kublcy Manufactur ing Company et al. Pcnna. Superior Ct, Decided January 23, 1943. (CCH). 242 Occupational Disease. Death of Spinner Resulting from Carbon Disulphide Gas Doicor.inr. This 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 tho employee from the slov; ar.d r.vr/.ual effects of certain named poisons in any occupation involving direct cont.'.ct v.lth Thom, or exposure to their. - among them, poisoning by carbon bisulphide. Claimant's husband was employed by the defendant as a spinner for seven years; during all that time the defendant, in its process of manufacturing rayon, used, ad still uses, carbon disulphide, v/hich is a deadly poison. He became totally die .bled, and died. The testimony includes testimony by Dr. Max Trur.per, a '-n n -a 0O h 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 end 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. Psnna. 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, 4-26 (February, 1943). The various health hazards 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.W. 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 90$, which is used for grinding pottery materials. The mines at Bakcv/eil, Derbyshire are the greatest source of supply. The case is reported of a miner of chert, who had worked over 30 years, during which occupation he had been ex posed to much dust. Y.'hen first examined by X-ray his chest showed a perfect picture of silicosis. Symptoms were dyspnoea cough vdth sputua and tiredness. No tubercles was detected. The case is claimed to bo the first undisputed in stance of silicosi3 due to chert. 245 Silicosis. 3.P. Scarlett. Canadian Med. Assoc. J., 47, 468-472 (November,1942). The author discusses and defines the problem of silicosis in a generalized way as to etiology, pathogenesis, clinical aspects, course and complications, tuber culosis, dusts other than silica, and treatment. He emphasizes the importance of dust particles other than free silica and calls attention to the difficulties in making a diagnosis. 246 Silicon Dioxide in Guinea Pig. Inoculation for Tuberculosis. Harriet Hollon and othez^k. Am. Rev. Tuberc., 46_, 568-573 (November, 1942). 367 specimens of tuberculosis cultures were inoculated into guinea pigs in dupli cate. 322 aspirations of lymph nodes were made on inoculated guinea pigs that had received silica with the inoculum, of which 32$ were positive. 94 aspira tions were made on tho 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 tho routine method only. Y.rhilc silica aids in tho development of tuberculous nodules, the results suggest caution in its application to routine procedure. -- Author's summary. 247 Hazards to Women Employed in Y.[ar Plants cn_ Abrusivo-Wheci Jobs. U. S. Depart ment of labor, Y.ar.on' a Bureau, .Special Bulletin No. 7. (*1942). Tho pamphlet states the problem to bo one of seeing that protective methods, already well developed, are employed in abrasivo-vrheul jobs, end notes the ef fects of this type of work on women as compared with men. A brief description 004089 I i/il Hygiene Digest - 7 of (rinding, polishing, and buffing processes is given, with a review of the hazards involved and the preventive methods which may be used. Seme of the poisons to Which abrasivc-whcel workers may be subject arc listed, and a des cription of an adequate dust exhaust system is given. , Oc.-ascosis. Further Notes of Four Cases. J.A. Gillison and F. Taylor. Brit. Lied. 577-57S (November 14, 1942). Bmgnssosis 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 cone 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 exercise. In all eases the illness was severe and prolonged, but no compensation could bo 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 boon reported. 249 Concentration of Atmospheric Hotel Fumes 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 summer. Samples totaling 752 for lead and 681 for zinc were taken with electrostatic precipitators. Lead and zinc were determined by ditliizono methods. Samples v/ere 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 each 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 con centration above the toxic limit of 150 mg. zinc per 10 cu. n. 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 tho last is not practicable, positive ventilation should be providod;-'l6) vacuum cleaners for dust removal; and (7) complete periodical physical examinations. A number of charts and tables present the data. 250 Par.-tors of Sulfur Dioxide to Refrigerator V/orkor. Queries Sc Minor Notes. J.A.II.A 121, 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 nay bleach, but there is no staining. Sulfur dioxide is after* dissolved in oil, r.ncl the staining mentioned may come from grime in the eil, No chemical application car. be expected to ovc-rcwae chilling, but irrita tion may be prevented by the application, before and while working, cf a email quantity of hydrous wool fat or similar material, preferably with some mild al kali such as sodium bicarbonate. It is best to avoid contact. co ;gjO jtrir.l Hygiene Digest - 8 1 Influence of Acid Furcs Upon the Teeth of V.'orkers in Pickle, Accumulator ~ i'A:Tci V.QTks in V.'ostnholia. 7A Ludcwig. Arch. Gcwerbopath., 11, 19 6-310 n.V^wTXcr 31, 1941). (German). ir. en.c plants in three inaustrics there is a sufficient concentration of strong '.:c;ida to be injurious to workers' teeth. The industries arc pickling cf metals, manufacture of accumulators, and acid manufacture. The pickling bath is usually heated to 60C, and droplets of the acids (sulfuric and hydrochloric) condense ir. the air. Respiratory passages, skin and teeth aro 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 as there is no bacterial infection. The effects show increasing severity from the l-'e 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. Harked 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 scams or clean* ins "the chambers. Masks are worn for these operations. Good ventilation is necessary and an ample supply cf 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 Med. J., 14 , 2751-2732* 27 64_`(l942). The authors describe toxic reactions to TUT, tetryl, ammonium nitrate and smoke less powder, and discuss preventive measures. 253 Exposure to Fumes from Hot Nitroglycerin. Queries Sc Minor ITotes. J. A. M. A., 121. 552 (February 13, 1943). Several persons have suffered rather severe toxicity from nitroglycerin fumes, one to the extent of a spinal cord lesion, and the composition of the fumes is asked. Nitroglycerin only is present at 50C, 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 aro 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 affects aro 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. :-r4 Toxicity of Two Organic Thiocyanate Insecticides. R.J. Main and H.3. Haag. Ir.d. Med., 11_, 531-533 (November, 1342). Thu acute and chronic toxicities of Altrasene-solutions of two organic thiocyanetes 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 60 rind the mixture cf Lcthone 584 Special arc definitely leea toxic than Lethane 284, which apparently has been a satisfactory and safe ira.:.:ticiue. Frc-m those studios it would appear that if properly used there should be no health hazard in tho practical employment of Lothane 284 Special an a spray insecticide. -- Authors' summary. 004091 . trir'l Hygiene Digest - 9 v-'r/'t-n?* Poisoning in Industry. P..K. V/ilson. J. Lab. & Clin. k*ed., 27. 1517 (_.;;.-icmber, ,3-942}. /example is given of the greatly increased hazard from benzene due to war work* A factory in the rubber industry led been using small quantities of benzene for -c.-.rs, *..lthout health damage. With the advent of large war orders and increas- use of synthetic rubber, workers came to the company hospital with complaints ,f r.'Ic.ise, nausea and vomiting, and a fev: with bleeding. Blood counts on the 1,10-i persons using benzene showed mild blood changes end slight absorption in Pd and severe blood changes and symptoms of severe benzene intoxication in 25, oi` v:hoci 9 wore hospitalized and 5 died. The small number of deaths was believed *,,o b; due tc the extreme amount of treatment received, consisting of whole blood . r.;i bone narrow transfusions and liver, iron, calcium, phosphorus, yellow bone r.-.rrov; and multiple vitamin therapy. Preventive measures include adequate ven tilation and constant medical supervision including frequent blood examinations, -he air should bo tested frequently and the ventilation should keep the benzene concentration below 100 parts per million. Ho one with a leucocyte below 5000 or abovo 15000 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 250 in any blood component is also sufficient reason for removal from the department. -3 The Metabolism of Mononitroparaffins_._III. The Concentration of Nitroethane, hi trite and Nitrate in the Blood of Rabbits During Expo sure by Inhalation and Oral Administration. E.?/. Scott. J.Ind.Hyg. & Tox., 25_, 20-25 (January, 1945). The concentration of nitrate and nitrite increased gradually in the blood of rabbits during exposure to nitroethane by inhalation or oral administration. There was a definite correlation between the concentrations of nitrate and of nitroethane in the blood of animals exposed by inhalation. Other primary and secondary nitroparaffins also fom nitrite when injected into the animal organ ism. The only tertiary nitroparaffins 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 methemoglobin anoxia are des cribed. Duo 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 .contra! 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. -- hit hors * summary. Tc >:i oology of Acrylonitrile (Vinyl Cyanide). III. Determination of Thiocyanates lead and Urine. A.K. Lawton, T,R. Sweeney and H.C. Dudley. J. Ind. Iiyg. *1 V..v, , 2, 15-19 (January, 1943). l. A method is presented for the accurate determination of small amounts of ` i o cyur.ate in biological fluids. 2. Dogs exposed for 4 hours to 24, 40, and p.r., acrylonitrile in air shov: a significant increase in serum thiocyanate h.'.tcly iV!lov.lng the exposure period and a significant increase in urinary 'yar.uto content 24 to 43 hours following the exposure period. 5. Rccoia fiens arc made for the use of scrim and urinary thiocyanate determinations c:i v;orfcers exposed to acrylonitrilo so as to discover cases of dangerous nbsorp of tlh. nitrile. -- Authors' sundry. CO -..trial Hycieae Digest -10 ; r'-.lorothylene Demreasers. Indiana State Board of Health, Bureau of Industrial .J . .y{Ye u7,"Utov^Graphed pamphlet, 12 pp. pro poises of trichlorethylone are listed, and various processes of degroas- ;-ro described briefly, including dipping, wiping, the vapor, vapor-spray, hot liquid-vapor and hot-li;.:uid-cold-liquid-vapor processes, v.lth diagrams illus trating the last four. Symptoms arc listed, and safe practices and standard rveertmendations are given. In summary, it is stated that, used carefully and in properly designed and operated equipment, trichlorethylone is entirely safe. Standard degreasing equipment installed and operated in accordance with the man ufacturer's instructions docs not present a definite health hazard. Remedial measures are indicated: (1) if the odor of trichlorethylone is distinctly noticeable, (2) if the solvent consumption is more than about 2 gallons per square foot of tack area per hundred pounds of operation; (3) if the atmospheric concentration of trichlorethylone is more than 200 parts per million. ::t`.0 Fluorino Poisoning Due to Flue Gasos and Dust From a Superphosphate Works. Deter mination of the Fluorino Content of the Deposits on Plants, in Water, Hay and Bonos. M.E. Stas. Chen. V/eeklblad., 33, 585-593 Tl94l). A review of the literature is given. Plants in the vicinity of superphosphate works were examined for fluorine, calcium and phosphorus content, as well as water from ditchos-. In a cow 3.5-9.0 ng. of fluorine were found per 1 g. of bene ash, whereas the normal content in various regions of Holland amounts to 0.25-lmg. ::rjl Fluorine Poisoning as the Result of Atmospheric Pollution by a Superphosphate berks. ii.J.N. Schuursna. Cheu. Yieekblad., 38 , 533-534 11941)7 ' A careful investigation showed that the dissemination of small amounts of fluor. ino by factories injured the health of nearby grazing cattle and also could low er the milk production. Water samples obtained a distance of 100 m. from a superphosphate works, shewed 2 mg. fluorine per 1. A crude phosphate that was treated had a fluorino content of 3#; the resulting superphosphate still contain ed 1# fluorine. A kg. of grass absorbed 0.2 mg. fluorine if chiefly superphos phate was scattered. Studies on the Physiological Effects of Sulfamic Acid and Ammonium Sulfa-mate. A.A. Ambrose. J. Ind. Hyg. cc Tox., 25, 26-28 {January, 19437. 1. The acute toxicity of sulfamic acid and ammonium sulfamate has been deter mined in rats following intraperitoneal and oral administration. Sulfamic acid after intraperitoneal 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 sulfamate caused no fatalities. 2. The continued oral ingestion of. sulfamic acid or ammonium 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. .A.tr.ruution of growth on tho 2$ level was not due to restricted food intake since fcou consumption of these animals was as great as, or greater than, that of the controls. 3. Sulfamic acid, after subcutaneous injection in rats, on the conjunctiva of rabbits, and after cutaneous application on humans was definite ly irritating, while ammonium sulfamate aid not produce any irritation. 4. Circulation and respiration were not seriously influenced by the compounds m'tcr intravenous injection of ICO m;m. per kilogram. 5. From these studios it nrs, therefore, that sulfcmic acid and ammonium sulfamate present no sor- - `Us health hazards, but that suliAmic acid is definitely more toxic by ail modes of administration. -- Author's summary. * <ns) oj! " Hygiene Digest - 11 :r. ffiigjone Problems In Recovery of Non-Ferrous Motals from Scrap. ;.7;Y.ciV*Lf-ibbr Bull., 3, 4-6, 9 (2<`ov ember 30, 1942}. _..j article-, written primarily for factory operators and smelters is a thorough review of the hazards involved in handling non-ferrous scrap metals. The lead h-u-nrd is considered and methods of control arc outlined. The need for good is..keeping is emphasized and effective exhaust ventilation is recommended rather than tho uso of filter respirators, whose proper use is difficult. :1 industrial Poisoning Associated with Crosses, queries & Minor Notes, J.A.M.A. .f ', 1079 (November 6, 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, Occults 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. Notes. 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 the substance as a spray. The results of determinations of the lead end 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 the poison for 30 years, tvas convalescing rapidly, 266 Encephalopathy from Inhaling Fumes from Burning Storage Battory Boxes. W.D. McNally. J. Ind. Hyg. & Tox., 25., 29-3"g"TJanuary, _I943]~. 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 burnedtattery 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 infona their employers of the dang*?..involved in discarding used battery boxes in public dumping grounds where the indigent class may acquire them for fuel. Health departments of the various states should enforce a rule prohibiting tho discarding of used battery boxes in public places. 267 Experimental Investigations in Lead Poisoning* H. franiek, Arch. Gcwerbepath. Gowerbchyg. , II, 58-76 (19417. Oral closes of white lead wore administered daily to rabbits until 0.25 g. per V:~. body weight had been given. The animals died between the 9th and 16th days. Tho administration of 2 g. of glucose and 0.5 unit of insulin increased slightly tho number of red cells, hcr.oyiobin and body weight as compared with the control group, out did not affect tho duration of life. In another group 1 cc. of cam p-ion (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 tho erythrocyte count hvano^lchin volumes. The number of rabbits used for each experiment was small (mostly 3 to 5). c nu : 0-J  -:1 Hygiene Dicest - 12 ... ' ,*> Hffcct of Chronic Lead Poisoning on Arterial Pres cure in frogs. P.J. Fouts TilTi.H. Page. Am. Heart J. 4, 329-351 "(September, 1942*!. Vrc belief that chronic lead poisoning loads to arterial hypertension was tested by experiments on dogs. No hypertension was produced by administration of lead tc dogs, oven when over long periods of time and in large amounts. Although extensive American cxpcric-nce has never shown any such effects as are described in the four fo3J.ov.ing abstracts, they ore presented for information, as representing the ideas of the Gorman authors quoted. :;-"3 P. ;~.arhs on the Clinical Pathology and Pr.thoconcsls of the Aluminum Lur,-'. C. Goralcwski anu H. Jaeger. Arch. Gcwcrbepath. 11., 102-105 (1941). (German). L;j*ly investigators concluded that aluminum dust does not injure the lungs. How ever, in the present German aluminum powder industry the aluminum is crushed more finely and tho addition of fat is now avoided. 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 tho lung. The alu minum lung allegedly develops rapidly and may be fatal after only 8 months expo sure. The aluminun'lung is a very special illness and should not be confused with the use of aluminum dust to choc!: 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 cases arc described. 271 Clinical Examination of the Aluminum Lung. G. Goralcwski. Arch. Gewerbepath., 11. 108-116 (1941) T ("Gel-manl. Case histories of four men working in ah aluminum powder factory arc presented. The v.*orking times were l-J, 5, 7 and 16 years. Examination, by auscultation ana porcussion gave only scanty findings. The sedimentation of the blood was normal or only slightly accelerated. Dyspnoea and lymphocytosis were present and spon taneous pnciaaothorax was observed in 3 cases. No 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 Histo-Chcmical Studies on the Question of Lung Damages by Ajiciinum Dust. R. Jaemer and F. Jaeger. Arch. Gevferbepath. . 11. 117-150 (1941) (German) Tho authors1 experiments show that aluminum ions originate from powdered alumin um in contact with If* 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 ir. 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, and is therefore non-protecting. The effect con tinues and the layer thickens. They reason from those results that in the lungs tho aluminum dust cor.cs in contact v.lth the tissue fluid which contains sodium chloride. In this 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 causo the albumin to swell and to be dissolved. TJiis continuous reaction explains the often rapid progress of the Cn u r. 'a uj Industrial Hygiene Digest' - 13 changes in the lungs follov.lng excessive inhalation of aluainum dust. The cuckors present a theoretical explanation of the combined action of silica and alumina* _73 Luminous Paints. Protection of Workpeople. Lancet, 623-629 {May 23, 1942)*. As long ago as 1923, women workers in the United States developed rarefying osteitis of the jaw from applying luminous point to watch dials, using fine cando heir brushes which they pointed with their lips* Nov; that instruments with luminous dials aro needed by the Aimed 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 are rigorous and protection is assured; by limiting hours of work; by requiring cleanliness; by adequate ventilation; by v/ouring pi'otcctivc clothing, such as overalls, hair-covorings, rubber aprons and gloves, all of which must be washed daily; by insistence upon washing before meals; and by periodic medical examinations. Stores of luminous compound must bo 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, end harsh cleaners aro 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 vraxes, 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 concitions is emphasized, 275 Halowax Acne. Queries & Minor Notes.. JA.M.A. 121, 471 (February , 1943). The inquiry concerns a patient who has handled degaussing cables daily, and has a stubborn acnefoim condition. Kis v:ifc has some of the same lesions. The cables consist of metal strands wrapped with hslov/ax, essentially trichlornaphthaleno 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 acnefona 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 b incision. A strong cleansing solution should be used for the face. Yellow at&bphy of liver has occurred in severe cases, and liver function tests are advised for the patient. Several references tc papers on halowax acnc are given. L7'> Cutting Oils nnd the Skin, C. Leggo. 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, end protection of the worker, including cleanliness, protective croons and protective clothing. ia in- trial Prir/ititir. K.S. F.odgrovc, Loan. Perfumery, Cosmetics. 15 , 600-002 mw"). This general paper on dermatitis calls attention to difference in sensitivity of skins, and the possibility of dermatitis from harsh cleaning agents. Protective formulas arc recommended. C r\ A -r fUl O (\ -j , _ trial Hygiene Digest - 14 . v I'-r.co of Dermatitis in 1942. Anonymous. Ohio lad. Coiam. Monitor. 16. ;'T~'3rur.ry, 1043). ; ,.;-vrts of claims filed during the past year (in Ohio) show a marked increase P;rratitic over preceding years, the claims totaling 3,309 against 2,034 for 1 ,.;i. This increase is very probably due to tho large number of new workers* tyre of dermatitis showing the greatest increase is that caused by contact ..ith oils. More care should be taken to maintain preventive measures -- good usoke^pins, protective clothing, clean oil, and skin creams. > r'-v^r.tion of Skin Irritation from Line Dust. J.A.M.A. Queries & Minor Notes. I? PCI (November 7, 1942). :.h working 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 recommended as better than base emollients only. Reference is made to a discussi -n of protective ointments by Schwartz in "Medical Clinics of North America" for July, 1942. The following methods are 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 oars if necessary to prevent aural dermatitis. If lino dermatitis appears, contact with line should be avoided for the time being. ' Erythema from Y/olding. Queries & Minor Notes. J.A.M. A. 121. 162 (January 9,1943) Erythema and oven vesicles resembling sunburn have been reported among welders, on the uncovorcd 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 100 tannic acid and 50 methyl salicylate. 1 The Lethal Effect of Triethylene Glycol Vapor on Air-Borne Bacteria and Influen za Virus. O.H. Robertson and others. Science, 97, 142-144 (February 5, 1943). In 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 triethylene glycol for monkeys and rats and expo sure of the animals for prolonged periods of time to its vapors are being under taken. 2 Methyl Bronido as a Fumigant for Foods. H.C. Dudley and P.A. Neal. Food Res., 1, 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 whon such food is consumed. 3 ibTv.-uRr1Review of Sixty Cases. K. Gold. Arch. Int. Med., 70, 735-821 U~v.::r.ber,`l942). ::ccau.ce of the statement that the source of infection of several of the cases cf antiirax in this review is of industrial origin quotations frou the author's S',r::.'.ry will be of interest to industrial hygienists. Sources of infection, y-.riy occurrence, distribution, clinical course and methods of treatment are '-icourccd. In 21 cases, anti anthrax scrum in largo amounts (200-2,000 cc.) was nirtcrcd intravenously, and only one death occurred. In 42 cases, trcc.t- w.-s with sulfonamide compounds, with excellent results in 39 cases. If a patient fails to respond after three days of treatment with sulfonamide compounds, U-'-.atlu-ax treatment should be given. Use of the sulfonamide compounds is proruble, because they arc easier to administer, their use shortens tho period of iif.fixation nnu disability, and they are economical. - From Author's summary. CO tj i i 1 *.v; .! ' HyCioaG ^C05* " 15 . ; -,-r'1r,hy-%Otx Electrical Safety, 1950-1941. American Institute of Electrical .'-ZTi'c~\6 pp. 1942* Obtainable from American Institute of Electrical Encin- head -uarters, 33 V/. 30 th St., Now York, N.Y., at 50. .. : - bibliography includes a list of applicable standards, specifications and .-.:vcy codes. The bibliography is divided into the following sections: (1) . it j'.ricul accidents and their causes; (2) accident prevention methods; (3) safe ty codes and standards; (4) effects of electric shock, and (5) resuscitation. ,,.-'.1' 2 license: Incidence, Diagnosis and Treatment; Report of Two Cases. D.YJ. f.V ..... r. Penn. Med, J, 45, 129e (September, 1942), The author suggests that the disparity between the incidence figures for Neil's .is`,--.cc 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 shot; 10 to 15 times as many cases in email European countries as in the United States. The figures for the United States vjould be increased if suspected cases were thoroughly investigated by modern laboratory methods. The medical profession must become "Neil'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 bo reportable, and listing of immune serum donors is suggested. C/l6 The Improvement of Heat Tolerance in Man. B. Schlegel. Klin. Wochschr. 20, to-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. Eossiter. Ind. Med., 11, 479-481 (October, 1942). The author explains the dangers of permanent brain damage after 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. He 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 features. Night Vision and Night Blindness. W.T, Hope-Kobertson. New Zealand Med. J., a, 153-166 (August, 1942). After emphasising 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, tdv complex subject of pre-adaptation is discussed, including value of pre-adap tation of v.-ctcleaen, and the use of pre-adaptation glasses. Methods of measuring night visual capacity, and causes of night blindness are summarized. 004090 *vri'l Hygiene Digest - 16 Methods of Detection and Determination ; . -.1 :fication of Dead in Bono Tjsrue. L.T. Fairhell. Pub. Health Roots., 58. ; (February 5, 1945). r...thoa for positive identification of lead in bone tissue has been evolved vr.ieh permits detailed investigation of the lead deposit. The process consists .^calcification of the tone section (preferably sawed lengthwise) by a satur: rolution of sulfur dioxide. Ho lead is lost in the process. Sections cut . raffin are treated with xylene, alcohols 3nd water and are finally imr.orscd in n acetic acid solution of potassium chromate, slowly developing a deposit of 1 ,-vl chromate crystals. These are best studied under a polarizing microscope, quantities 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 cpiphy:--.;al portion of bone is rich in load, particularly in the early stages of lead Vocorption, deposition occurs throughout the compact tissue on all surfaces over which, blood passes. X-ray studios of theboncs of lead-poisoned animals indicate t 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 was shown to occur in the fat cells of the red marrow. Lead stor age in the bone tissue occurs first as colloidally dispersed and finally as se gregated crystalline masses. Microdotcrmination of Lead by Dithizone. X. Banbach and R.E. Burkoy. Ind. & 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 lead from bismuth both of which combine with dithizone in the first extraction from alkaline solution, is accomplished by stripping the lead drom the dithizone extract with a potassium acid phthalatehydrochloric acid buffer solution at pH3.4. The bismuth remaining in the chloroform-dithizonc 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. Walkley. Australian J. Exper. Biol. 5&M.Sc., 20, 130-147 (September, 1942). The method described consists essentially of a wet ashing procedure dithizone extraction and polarographic deteimnation. It can easily be modified for the determination of zinc for industrial air or tissue analyses, and is applicable to the rangj^. to 300 micrograns. cctrographic Analysis of Rat Tissue for Ingested Vanadium. E.P. Daniel, E.M. --ten and K.*.'. Kies. Ind. Eng. Chon., Anal. Ed., I4j 921-922 (November, 1942). epoctrographic method for the quantitative estimation of vanadium in limited omits of biological material is presented. Chronium is employed as an internal sr.dard in the arc spectrum and use is made of standard reference curves estabi < ehod by plotting the ratios of line blackening produced by standard solutions vanadium end chromium against the concentrations of vanadium. The spectrum as, vnn.diusi 3185.406 angstrom, and chromium olCB.Oangstrcn were measured by 'm: of a. non-recording densitometer. From a number of ashed tissues analysed v-..v linm, blood samples taken from rats fed three different levels cf this `A-.r.t wore chosen to illustrate the applicability of the method. -- Authors' Industrial Hygiene Eigest - 17 Control Methods 33 Dust Control in Hard Headings. A. Kelson. Colliery Guard,, 165. 729-733 (December 18, 1542). The dust control measures adopted in the mines of Amalgamated Anthracite Col lieries, one of the large 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 campling 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 the face, presence of carbon dioxide and methane, and quantity of oxygen. For 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, arc investigated through weekly cycles, by time 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 has 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's hard headings: (1) dust concentration during any activity, 12.7 million particles per cubic foot, under 10 micron size, as measured by the konimetor; (2) effective temperature between 55 and 7QF; (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 blowing ventilation should be 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 Wotting Agents in Reducing Dusts Produced by Wet Drilling In Basalt. J.A. Johnson. U7 sV Bur. of Mines, Rent, of Invcs., No. 3673 27 pp. (Jan., 1943). This report describes tests in wot drilling in which two unnamed wetting agents were added to the water. They wore found to reduce the quantity of dust more effectively than when water alone was used. A 0.2# wetting-agent solution was found much more effective in wetting the particles than 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 scoured, whether water alone or a wetting agent solution is used. Even when two sprays totaling 2.6 gallons per minute were used on the same drill, tho results were little bettor than at 1.7 gallons per minute. At the latter rato the average dust concentro.tion 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$ wotting agent solution. A slightly faster drilling speed is attainable with the t'ing agents. During tho experiments the fan delivcrc-d about SCO cubic feet ir per minute to tho heading whore one drill was operating. In practice ade quate pressure should be made at the drills, and water flow and ventilation chouli be chocked periodically. GO ji ...v i Hygiene Dicost - 18 A T'/ng.of Filter for Dust Work* Monmouthshire and South V/ales Coal Owners '7" e., tth Report of the Coal Dust Research Committee. (D.A. Harm, Chairman) (October, 1942). investigation was mode to determine the feasibility of employing filters to . ;y.y auct in coal mines, since water sprays cannot be used where weathering of V: occurs. After a umber of experiments the filtering medium chosen con.i-'.-d of a mixture of coal beans and grain, enclosed between rectangular inner ;r:i outer cages*, the inner cage serving as inlet, and containing a single mist : \uctor* Tills device removed 93 of the dust by weight in the laboratory cx: -.rii.'.cnts, and over 80# by weight in a full-scale test at a loading station. ..i/...v*.r, comparison of particle counts with the konimeter did not show as speci-.c-iiar reduction as the weight ratios, because the larger particles were more 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*. Do Federal Mine Inspection Progresses. D. Harrington. Am. Labor Legislation Rev., D, 163-167 (December, 1942).. -no 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 wholo have increased about 20#.- f97 The Theory and Practice of Pneumatic Convoying. J.M. DallaValle. Heat. &Vent.> oOj 28-32 (November, 1942).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. "98 Air Sterilization with Glycol Vapors. Queries & Minor Notes.* J.A.M.A* 121 > 301 lJanuary 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 reached the point where practical application can be advocated. In particular '~y vossible harmful effects on men and animals must be studied very thoroughly, a:;., experiments on that point arc now being conducted. There arc also unsolved :-.v.-chauical problems, such as the question whether the glycol vapor can be so introduced as to obtain adequate concentrations in all parts of an enclosed air nr-.cc* Abstract Nos. 557 & 681 (19 42) deal with bactericidal action of glycols. I.J-a.-^l and Treatment cf Nitrous Fur.e Poisoning. Anonymous. Ind. Hyg., (U.S. Service) , 3, C-7 (February, 1943). .`rrferenco on nitr.us fume poisoning was hold in Cincinnati on January 23 by avr.untativcs of explosive manufacturers and several interested U. S. Govern bureaus. Suggested engineering .control measures were: (1) ventilation; (;) adequate exits; (3) proper storage of material. Several medical control `'-`raw wore suggested: (1) pro-employment examinations including chest x-ray3 .u. eluding persons with certain respiratory conditions; (2) prompt report of iiyr.icne Digest - 19 rxnes'ircs as& referring the worker to the hospital; (3) recommended treatment :'!* \trkors shoving symptoms of poisoning, including burning of throat or chest, i.-'.,jitude, pallor, cyanosis and abnormal breathing. The treatment includes abmluto rest, keeping warm, supplying oxygon if necessary, liquid diet, recording of Mood pressure and pulse at regular intervals, study of the blood picture, if . -Anonnry edema is developing, the following recommendations include bleeding, Msema administration, oxygen, glucose intravenously, and trial of mercury diuretics and adrenal cortical hormones. Prohibitions include morphine (alional cr luminal nay be used), cardiac stimulants and soda. Industrial Medical Practice Why Wc Emnloy Aged and Handicapped Workers. Edsel Ford. Sat. Evening Post. M2, 16-17 (February 6, 1943). Abstracted by special pemission 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 films 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 men employed there, suffer from various disabilities. These 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 been the discovery of tasks which would develop their usefulness. This group do not expect nor receive special considerations although their fellow 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 age, which is appreciably higher than the average throughout the country. Since the age median of the nation is rising, industry nuat oaphasiz the employment of persons 40 years old and upward or also the younger people will have to support themselves and their elders. Con structive activity keeps non and women from growing feeble and becoming economic liabilities. The use of greater mechanical horse power enables an older man to perform tacks which required the strength of a young man to perfora by hand. Older 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. a --.Physically Handicapped in Industrial astnblishncnts of the Government. V rvey and E.P. Luongo. J. /or*. Mod. Assoc., 121, 1C0-107 (January 9, 1942). joint commission representing the Civil Service Commission, the Vocational ; bilitation Division, Office of Education, and the Council of Personnel Admi: *.:vticn has been established to provide fuller information about the employ- r.a of h-nuicapped pcrcons and an extensive survey is being made. The rosui information is being coded according to the system of job classification cat-. li c!xd by the U.S. Employment Service. The manual will bo in loosc-l>-uf form eject to modifications. The usefulness of persons with various handicaps i- reu.w.t.'d at lcn.yth, in the light of tro information obtained in the survey. c.r:v.-nt of women is a part of the picture. QQ ;i. ' 0  rriai Hyrisae Digest - 20 ' ,N * V-orking. Anonymous. Urol. c Cutan. Rev., 44, 542 (August, 1942). '.".Ts*:fc3%ffcrson to have in the factory or office, as far as spreading syphilis i.. esr.ccro^ft'* may well be the men with a positive V/asseiman reaction who is tak- i:-. treatment. Ho is both non-infcctious and immune. Those who have never had ; disease nay acquire it and become the focus from which it spreads. It is r.iiy, therefore, to discharge persons about whom the facts are known while rethose about whoso health nothing is known. Strikes in defense plants ,go the public on account of the wasted time and slowing down of production. 'I':-' public should be equally enraged about the waste and delay due to venereal .,,nscs. To discharge a man for having a positive V/asserman reaction looks more lid' punishment than an attempt at reasonable sanitation. Physicians and employ ers should join in an effort to minimize the lost hours. Snployees should be instructed and safeguarded, and treated when necessary. ^r.nloyment of Epileptics. W.G. Lennox and S. Cobb. Ind. Med., 11. 571-575 O'cc 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 four 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 broomaakers, tuberculosis patients have been assigned light outdoor work and the person who has lost a leg has been a crossing watchman, although the experience of each would qualify him for entire ly different work. However, the occupational horizon of the physically handi capped is now gradually being broadened. To those charged with their guidance, all jobs are jobs for the 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 .coma through carefully and intelligently applied job analysis. Problem of Absenteeism in Relation to War Production. D. Evans. Monthly Labor Hoy., 56, 1*9 (January. 19431. ' Ab.iv r.tceism is a matter of growing concern to those entrusted with the respon sibility for war production. One large plant reports current absence rates at 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 iso tends to be higher among older workers,- and increases as the work week is -a.-thened. 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;ir*g necessities, end visits to doctors, dentists and lawyers. An r*. mt factor in purely voluntary absenteeism is the worker's morale, high (with qualifications), overtime for Saturday and Sunday irrespective of 'so cn ether days {now discontinued). The subject of high wages, however, : '`.wires eu-ilification. Remedies for involuntary and borderline absenteeism C04.1.0S -rir.i Hygiene Digest - 21 j. .vo bce-n frequently discussed - health programs, plant meals, cooperation in housing and transportation programs, etc. Voluntary absenteeism can be control led ty rcm&#ding the worker of the importance of the job, end by requiring writ ten reasons^ with dismissal when absences become excessive. Disapproval by f-.liov; workers is in important deterrent, and in some cases unions and labor comr.ittccs have been effective. /-..ntceisn in Commercial Shipyards, 1942, 2.V. Kennedy. Monthly Labor Rev,, ; 0, r.U-222 (February, 1943). 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. Ir. 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; this 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 arc presented. Poor housing, bad transportation and the necessity of recruiting inexperienced workers were considered the major causes, Sickness and accident did not play a large part. High earnings did not seem to bo 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 seeming houses and by securing shuttle train service. One reduced weekly hours from 58 to 4S and thereby reduced absenteeism by 50$. 207 Absenteeism and Mortality in the Portland Cement Industry, 1941. Portland Cement Assoc., September, 1942. Mimeographed, 43'pp. This annual report is the seventh issued by the Association, and covers the calendar year 1941. The field covers 56 cement plants, employing nearly 10,000 persons. The data are presented in 26 tables and 6 charts. The rate for all respiratory illnesses is lower than in the preceding year, with the exception of a slight increase in influenza and grippe. For comparison with other industries, the data from only the plants in the Middle Atlantic and East North Central state: aro used, because the industries reporting to the U.S. Public Health Service are confined to those localities* In only two groups of respiratory illnesses bronchitis and chest colds, and pneumonia - is the rate higher for the cement industry. Tho rates in the cement industry are definitely lower for influenza diseases of the pharynx and tonsils, and miscellaneous diseases including sinus and upper respiratory illnesses. In another comparison, tho frequency of res piratory illnesses is tabulated by months in the cement industry and in a group of employooe in various industries. Based on the yearly rate tho cement industry is 3.1$ higb#r over the year, higher in the first and fourth quarter of the year and lower 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$. Burner* s had a 14$ 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 tho heart and coronary arteries are signi ficantly lower them at anytime in the last 6 years. Rheumatism, neuralgia and neuritis hud a lower frequency than any time within tho last 2 years, except for illnesses of less than S days. More cancer, however, is noticed. Mortality artery, .and nervous system f* rc* reased. The most severe injuries r.-n'cn av.\.y from hone exceed plant injuries by nearly 2;V to 1. In injuries lasting less than 8 days, the ratio is 0$ to 1. Many aduiticnal details aro given. cor.o - - atrial Hygiene Digest - 22 Aid flpy the Industrially Injured. C. Leggo. Ind. Med., 11_, 481-482 (uctober, VtiS). yirjt aid iprk in factories should be supervised by physicians connected with the plantstT'Wea though only with "on call" agreements, if lav/ suits because of inadequate or unjustified treatment are to bo avoided. Adequate supplies, in thw; hands of a graduate of a Red Cross course are important but not entirely sufficient# The physician, the management, and the insurance company should see that minimum standards arc observed# ;) Vital Statistics, Standard Oil Company (Hew Jersey) and Affiliated Companies: A 7-.r. Year Review. 1952-1941. R.C. Page. Med. Bull, (processed), Standard Oil Co., u_, 36-291 (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 sulfonemides 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 discharge. Saployeos appreciate the interest shown in their behalf, and not only cooperate in connection with treatment but also work efficiently. 310 Disabling Mortality Among Industrial Vfcrkers. Second Quarter of 1942. W.M. Gafafer, Pub. Health Repts., 5, 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 3695 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 dgjfeking wator, inadequate sanitary facilities, and extremes of temper ature. Additional non-occupational causes are traveling long distances to work in crowded'nosveyances, and home worries. The program for prevention of these causos covers quite a field, but a medical department v/hich has carried out its proper functions will have gone far in its fatigue-prevention program. Rest periods should be obligatory, and a 10 to 15 minute period in mid-morning and mid-afternoon is satisfactory in most industries. Shift changes should bo icade 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 AM. This arrangement effects a minimal displacement of the usual sleeping hours and no one would he compelled to sleep in the afternoon. Recommendations for eliminating other cruses 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 paper, occupational diseases, health education, and records arc dis cussed very briefly, For health education, talks by tho medical director and others, movies, leaflets and posters arc recommended. 0 0 41 n:; ity.. iene Digest - 23 -.'.i Crre for Cr.all Industries. Anonymous. Ind. Ilyg. (U.S.Pub. Health i-vicc), 3, 4 (February, 1943). I:. N -v; York. City a group of snail industries has been considering a plan to prov.'ie nodical care for their workers on a cooperative basis. The plan was drawn their roqucst by Group Health Cooperative, Inc., a non-profit medical ir.surorganization* The tentative plan includes in-plant services through full time industrial physicians (one per 2000 employees) r.nd nurses (one per 500 cm1cyccs). The in-plant services would include emergency treatment of accidents ,,:.d illness while on the job, pre-employment periodical and post-absence physi cal examinations, supervision of plant hygiene, and cooperation in safety pro grams in health education. The industrial physician would render only emergency treatment in compensation eases, and the patient would be free to choose his own physician for subsequent care, as the Nev: York State law requires. Correlated with tliese 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 would 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 organization 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. 313 Industrial Aspects of Peripheral Vascular Disease. L.H. Atlas. Ohio State Med. I., 5S_, 238-240 (March, 1S43). Peripheral vascular diseases or their complications, acquired as the result of industrial accidents aro 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, and traumatic thrombosis of the deep veins of the calf. Arteriosclerosis and arter itis aro 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 are subject to traumatic complications. The remaining diseases may result directly from trauma and are oftjw occupational. Treatment of each of the diseases is discussed. 314 Nature of the X-Ray Effect in Carbon Monoxide Recovery. J.A* Cameron. Proc. doc. Hxper. Biol, and Med., 50_, 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 respirator/ centers. On rats and rabbits loss than 8 days old the effect is not produced because of some difference in the activity of their respiratory centers. 31b riocVr.icnl Control of Cancer. M. Conisarow. Edinburgh Med* J., 49, 425-423 Ili OT review dealing with combined biotkorapy and chemotherapy of cancer, and vith industrial cancer and the purification of*lubricating mineral oils, '0 refereneos. CO  .' 7inl liyeicno Digest - 24 , y -gj.ilis in InQiistry. Its Relation to Industrial Dermatoses. L. Schwarts and Vrici* cc Cutnn. Rev., 4c, 561-558 "[Sc-ptember, 1942). Or. account t:he wide scope of compensation laws, industry must provide a med- ic-'l progrsnfeaot only to protect the employer against unjust claims bu also to protect tertiary syphilitic employees from chemicals or working conditions which r.ny aggravate syphilis or from industrial poisonings, such as from load, carbon cisulfide and nitro compounds, the symptoms of which may simulate those of ter tiary syphilis. Therefore, preemplcyncnt physical examinations should include blood tests for syphilis. The determination of etiology is difficult, if not ir/.pcsriblo, when symptoms later develop in the vascular or nervous systems of tertiary syphilitic v/orkers. Employees handling compounds such as load, 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. Ibiployecs with latent syphilis or receiving active '.pacific therapy should not be exposed to substances such as ether, alcohol, KIT, TNT or aniline, but they nay be safely 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, ana others. J.A.M.A., 120 . 828-831 I November 1471342). The most effective venereal disease control program will be ono in which tho em ployer, the employee, tha medical profession and the state and local health de partments cooperate. The Advisory Committee to the U.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 v:hich 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 Hveicne. Extension to Industrial Employees for the Control of Gonorrhea and Syphilis. T.A. Storeyl Ind.Med.7 ll-. 411-414 (Sept..1942). The American Social Hygiene Association concentrated its services in 1940 and 1941 on social probleas 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) labor organizations; (4) trade training courses, classes or schools; (5) public school and college student health programs. 319 Some MedicalProblems of Vesicant Chemical V/arfaro Agents as Affecting Civilian Populationau L. Goldman. Bull, of N.T. Acad, of Med. 19, 57-71 lJonuary, 1943). The vesic3|:agents, chiefly mustard and lewisite, because of their toxicity, persistency^and penetrability arc 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. Ko must secure spe cial training in tho nodical 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 atre-n.;; o or mysterious Indies to the dermatologist. For those vesicants with r ystomic poisoning components, such ns the arsenical compound, lewisite, thorn; y for this systemic phase should be given also. Decontamination of an individe .al will be done most effectively by the individual himself. The evacuation of the actual casualty must bo done in a different mode from other v: rfaro C 0 41 i - ri '-il Hygiene Digest - 25 c:\:ur.ltics^slnce all cases contaminated by vesicants are dangerous to handle. .*who te^Bcal phases of decontamination the physician vdll have the help of a . r' inod nc^aedical gas officer and the industrial physician will have the help :i' ;:is plailt gas officer. The educational program of the physician must also :::;].\:do measures to prevent psychoneurosos which would bo expected in large civilian groups. With his knowlcdgo of the principles of prevention and therapy, i;..' trained physician vdll be able to cope vdth any new agents which may be used, in all those ways, tho physician vdll loam the real role of chemical warfare . wir.zt civilians and vdll avoid acquiring for himself and consequently spread- by teaching, those factors of overemphasis, exaggerations, panic and fears, 1reactions so earnestly desired by enemy propaganda services. -- Author's .v.aclusions. ) Placement and Health Maintenance for Women in Industry. M.R. Burnell. Ind.Med., 11, Lsi-525 (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 than have returned to their homes, industry should know that every possible precaution was exercised to protact 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. 21 Safety and Health Problems of Women in Industry. Anonymous. Labor Inf. Bull., (U,5. Dept, of Labor), 9, 5-7 (December, 19427T '..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 cooperation and judgment on clothing should be'enlisted rather then 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. :;2 cr.cn in Industry. Safe Practice Bull., Ho. 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* pre-placement physical examinations should always bo given. The ex amining pTOjician should have full information regarding the duties to be per formed awFlSfeould consider fitness in connection with the examination. In the section on accident prevention, suitable adjustments of machines and safety clotllng 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 to load, carbon monoxide, carbon disulfide, nitrobenzene, mercury, benzene '-zo carbon tetrachloride should especially bo avoided. Factors in mental and i-f-Ucal health ere morale, sanitation, and good housekeeping. Women personnel ':v::vrn pro of assistance in some companies, and in any case frccuent intewm-v..' helpful. -.ri-l Kycia Digest - 26 Vrr.i Pittsburgh Med, Bull*, 52, 210-212 (March 13, 68.49^Kc the employees of the Bell Telephone Company of Pennsylvania are ,xncn, whiclPls an increase of 8# since Pearl Harbor. The company believes that success 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 same considor- Y/cnen physicians, employed by the company examine female applicants and also examine women employees who are absent from work more than ? days because of illness or accident. Treatment to employees is only emergency in nature, and they are referred to the fenily physician if further medical care is needed. The /.icol staff pays particular attention to placement of handicapped employees, Special treatment is given to applicants with correctible defects. 224 Feeding Workers for Health and Efficiency. 1*0. Dodge. Industry, 8, 18-22,40, 42 (February, 1943). The purpose of the article is to arouse interest in nutrition as an aid to im proved industrial health. Du to the 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 ur.donaine 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 owned; (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 (Ian. 9,1943). The author discusses the results of several surveys of factory cafeterias and 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 wore 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 Hutritio^feereases Production at Servel. Anonymous. Institutions Mag., 1*2, 15, 50 (JlStary, 19431. New foatuiwpintroduced 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 arc also obtainable but the food value of the Victory lunch is publicized. A weekly drawing prize also encourages v/orkers to buy the Victory lunch. The cafeteria now 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, and the accident record has been lowered. :::v jVycrolo.ry Industrial Nutrition Prorrans. L.S. Selling. Ind. Med., 12, oJ-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 nutritbn, and to utgo so far as possible that CO * 0 Hygiene Digest - 27 V:\'i food ftXHn home be wholesome. Provision should be made, if possible, :'or a woli^B&anccd meal at the plant, sufficiently cheap and appetising to .liengc tiiaf 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;c-ors, such as attitudes traditions, interests and habits of the workers should bo taken into consideration, in order to provide meals v/hich will appeal to them \nd which v/ill at the same timo carry the nutritive elements that will bo of most value# Hor-ort of the Bureau of Industrial Hygiene (State of Connecticut). A.S. Gray, Director* 56th Report of the Connecticut State Dept, of Health, pp. 61-113 (1541) Tills report fully presents the results of the routino work of the Bureau, with statistics, for the fiscal year ended Juno 30, 1941. A total of 540 surveys were made, in greatly varied fields, 16 educational publications were prepared, wnd 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:.`j Occupational Diseases and the Industrial Accident Commission of Maryland* J.A.Li.A., Current comment, 120, 626 (October 24, 1942). The First Annual Report of the Medical 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 tho opinions of tho Medical Board should be of value to students of compensation fad the medical profession at large* 520 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 tho 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 provlsionsJHSSded to make this service entirely adequate, conclude the article. 331 Public and Medical Relationships in Industrial Health* O.J. Johnson* A.;. J. Fub. tfcalth. 32, 1157-1163 (October, 1942). Tho importance of industri.il hygiene, "preventive industrial health" is not yet generally comprehended. Single groups, including the practising medical profes sion, nurses, management and labor have not yet the right standpoint towards pre vention. It is often believed that tho "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, tho nurse, health officers, workers and employers. C 0 4i 0 INDEX (March, 1943) rn y.-lity : rij - nd Cement .;:ntry 307 i"-3 . ruciiiOtion 306 305 'm Just ry irritation .V;.-:v/0-S7I-272 :: ; ; in bones 289 1.. . j-.li thizone 290 v . n*. c- uin 292 rir.c 291 :cute intoxication 257 f.rM-.vy. jr. :o review 283 >. ; tier, medicine occupational hazards 245 Ivnssosis 248 2o5 2 mccr tnerapy Crrbon monoxide roiconing X-ray therapy ! omntitis 274-277 end syphilis chloro-v;axes cutting oils lime dust statistics, 1942 Disinfection Glycol vapors triethylene glycol vapor lunt control coal nines nt:v.- typo filter v.uin,- agents v! metrical hazards 315 314 316 275 276 279 278 298 281 293 295 94 "i'iuymoiit ' - ri : oir.ouing 303 G----OC 2 CO'-261 Foundries non-ferrous fume concentrations 249 Kr.ndi canned v.-orhers employment of 300 government 301 Host tolerance improvement in 2G6 Industrial hygiene and public health 331 Heport Connecticut 1941 328 Industrial medicine 350 first aid 308 Insecticides organic thiocyanates toxicity 254 Load arsenate poisoning 265 Lead poisoning battery cases 266 blood pressure 268 experimental 267 Iicdical service largo plants 311 small plants 312 Metal ooisoning 264 Methvl bromide fumigant 232 Mining industry inspection progress 296 Mortality Second quarter, 1942 310 Munitions industry health hazards 252 Nitrogen oxides poisoning treatment 299 Nitroglycerin vapor exposure 253 Nitrooaraffins metabolism 256 Non-ferrous metals health problems 263 Nutrition and production and psychology in industry 326 327 324*-325 Occupational disease Maryland commission 329 Physically handicapncd employment of 304 Pickling metals acid fumes on teeth 251 Pneumatic conveying theory and practice 297 Radioactive substances luminous paints 273 Resuscitation 237 Silicosis chert miners 244 etiology 245 Sulfamic acid toxicity 262 Sulfur dioxide refrigerant hazard 250 Toxicolof7 258 Treatment of casualties 319 Tric hiorethvlene degreasers 259 `Tuberculosis experimental end silica 246 Vascular disease 313 Venereal diseases control 317-318 ar.ploymsnt policy 302 Vision night blindness 288 Vital statistics oil industry 308 Weil* s disease 285 Welding erythema 280 Women in industry 320-321-322-323 abrasives hazard 247 GO 4 A A