Document oeR4eZ78zXe5dpRkXK1Je4x4w

. f SC-><3 (Ge*. 1-601 -- i* SHELL CHEMICAL'"COMPANY or-vc./Pvo-*** STRICTLY PERSONAL , * to Houston - Manufacturing & Distribution General Manager - Mr. A. J. Martin date July 30, 1973 f*om Manager - Houston Plant susject Vinyl Chloride We Have begun disseminating the information recently come to our attention from the Manufacturing Chemists Association on vinyl chloride. It is being transmitted to employees through the Operating and Maintenance line management and was also given to the Health & Safety Committee in the July 26, 1973, meeting. T We are stressing the points that (1) malignant tumors in rats were induced under extremely high exposures (30,000 ppm) for extended periods; (2) we experience exposures in the Plant in the 0-50 ppm range compared to the T-LV of 200; (3) there is zero evidence of tumors in humans in the past 30 years experience in the industry; (4) we are imposing on our selves and recommending to customers that a TLV of 50 be observed; (5) we are taking steps to improve containment of the material; and, (6) the MCA is beginning an exposure study of animals in low concentrations in contrast to the extreme conditions used in item (1) above to make absolutely certain the environment is safe. It was also mentioned that a physiological testing program similar to that conducted on employees involved at BA, Specialities, Phenol, etc. would likely be started. When this information was given the Health & Safety Committee, there was no emotional reaction. One member volunteered that the saccarin and cyclamates studies probably resulted in a grossly conservative conclusion. They were told that there are many, many commonly accepted substances which could cause physiological effects if administered in abnormal quantity and manner. You will be kept advised of any subsequent change in attitude or reaction. E. S. Martin see 3-1053