Document vVZrQm305j3jkOjK0EmQj0jMq

INTERNAL CORRESPONDENCE CHEMICALS AND PLASTICS SO. CHARLESTON PLANT P. O. BOX 8004, SO, CHARLESTON. WEST VIRGINIA 25303 To (Name) Oivtsion Location J. S. Cornell Building 309-2/514 Copy to Area Maintenance Superintendents R. N. Bates C. W. Carman W. A. Garrett R. W. Holland, Jr., M.D. G. F. Hurley L. R. Noble L. W. Fhair R. A. Ream L. A. Roebke L. C. Stewart W. B. Troutman*/ G. L. Wharton Date May 2, 1980 Grigmatmq Dept. Answering letter date subject Asbestos Screening Test A test method published by NIOSH, Center for Disease Control, Cincinnati, Ohio, for determining probable presence of asbestos has been successfully performed on insulation samples by the Plant Laboratory. The colorimetric test is applicable to detection of magnesium (II) and iron (II) found in asbestos. Acid/glycerine wash procedures are attempted in case of positive tests to eliminate possible, interferring, soluble contaminants not attributable to asbestos; e.g., iron oxide (rust). The test method should prove to be a valuable tool here in the plant, even though it may be subject to occasional "false positive" indication. Because due to general uncertainty about old/existing insulation most of it must be treated as if it contains asbestos anyway. This is very costly and has perhaps contributed, to some degree, to employee discontent when insulation stripping work must be performed by either the Maintenance Department or by Design and Construction. Demolition work is another potential asbestos exposure source to be considered. Incidentally, NIOSH reports no "false negative" tests among some 200-odd field samples tested. . UCC 011632 2- - / The Plant Safety Department is now ready to provide "on-site," field testing service. In the event of negative test results (absence of asbestos), work may proceed im mediately without need of following OSHA/Plant 514 asbestos-insulation handling procedures. Positive test results, on the other hand, indicate possible presence of asbestos and present two options: (1) proceed with work following mandatory procedures, or (2) await further screening of representative samples by the Plant Laboratory which subsequently may permit avoiding costly procedures, e.g. , initial positive test due to interferring contaminant(s). To avoid possible work delays, timely field testing requests will be necessary. For example, samples requiring further screening in the Laboratory may take 2 3 additional days time, depending upon Laboratory daily work loads, etc. Please call me on x-2434 if there are any questions or to schedule field testing of insulation for the possible presence of asbestos. WCY:bl UCC 011633