Document nkx9n15k4Y1VGyyLpxb42EKR6

REDACTED The Sherwin-Williams Company 101 Prospect Avenue, N. W. Cleveland, Ohio 44115 November 22, 1978 '4Z? %! // 'Hu? ca/n - /efb d/sca& Mr. Jack L. Lively Hall, Levy & Lively P.C. Box 575 Coffeyville, Kansas 67337 Re; REDACTED Claim No. C979-30171H0D INSURANCE NOV 29 1978 T. Nt. Dear Mr. Lively: I have reviewed the information you sent to me regarding allegation of an occupational source of her diffi culty. Our Corporate Medical Director, Dr. G.L. Hekhuis, has reviewed the medical findings and summarized the diagnoses on the attached page. In regard to her testimony as described in your letter of September 28, 1978, I do not understand how she could have gone one full week with a cracked respirator. It is my understanding that if the respirators are used at all, they are to be returned to the appropriate place daily and a new one obtained. From her testimony, I would conclude that she did not follow the procedures established. Her testimony is contrary to established practice as there are always additional respirators available, both of a disposable and non-disposable type. Why did she not go immediately to her foreman if the respirator was not being cleaned? I have also examined the literature with regard to exposure to zinc oxide. The only recognized deleterious effect of exposure to zinc oxide is a transient condition known as metal fume fever. Clinically the patient presents the following symptoms 4-12 hours after exposure: metallic taste, dryness, irritation of throat, coughing, dyspnea, feelings of weakness, fatigue, pains in muscles and Joints, general malaise similar to flu, fever associated 'with the sensation of chills, temperature 102-104F, possibly shivering (1). This syndrome is known by a number of common names, such as zinc chills, brass chills, spelter shakes, and Monday-morning fever. Sweating is generally profuse and there may be severe pain in the chest. Recovery is usually complete in 24-48 hours. Of significance is the fact that these effects are transitory, with no reports of subsequent illness or incapacitation in persons suffering from metal fume fever. 13955 N40394 4 o i-j/U PORATZ 0007-SWP-005806221