Abstract  Human health assessment information on a chemical substance is included in IRIS only after a comprehensive review of toxicity data by U.S. EPA health scientists from several program offices, regional offices, and the Office of Research and Development. Sections I (Health Hazard Assessments for Noncarcinogenic Effects) and II (Carcinogenicity Assessment for Lifetime Exposure) present the positions that were reached during the review process. Supporting information and explanations of the methods used to derive the values given in IRIS are provided in the guidance documents located on the IRIS website at http://www.epa.gov/iris/backgrd.html.

Abstract  Due to suspected worker exposure to asbestos (1332214), polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PNA), vinyl-chloride (75014), talc (14807966), alpha-methyl-styrene (98839), and numerous organic and inorganic dyes and pigments, a hazard evaluation was undertaken at Kentile Floors, Inc., Chicago, Illinois. This company produced vinyl/asbestos and asphalt/asbestos floor coverings. The only contaminant which exceeded limits of exposure was asbestos with eight of 30 samples exceeding 0.10 fibers/cubic centimeter. No cases of asbestosis were found in past or present workers at this facility. Dyes were not used by the company, and alpha-methyl-styrene was no longer used. The authors recommend that the company review their materials list to determine which chemicals are potentially toxic and monitor these chemicals periodically and that carcinogens be identified and stored away from other chemicals. Employees should be be instructed in the proper use of respirators, and respirators should be worn during filling of drums. Safety glasses and side shields should be worn when working on or near the recycling conveyor belts. The ventilation and exhaust systems should be examined to be certain they are effective. Clothing exposed to possible asbestos contamination should be maintained at the facility and not taken home with the workers.

Abstract  This document estimates potential exposures to asbestos fibers through a variety of exposure pathways from the processing of vermiculite ore at the former Western Mineral Products/W.R. Grace site in Northeast Minneapolis, Minnesota. It is based on the findings of a previous health consultation (MDH 2001) and work being conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) in Libby, Montana. This document is also intended to help facilitate the evaluation of potential exposures and the communication of health recommendations to study participants in the Northeast Minneapolis Community Vermiculite Investigation (NMCVI). With funding from ATSDR, MDH is conducting the NMCVI, to 1) assess potential exposures to asbestos fibers from the site in Northeast Minneapolis and 2) develop a cohort of exposed persons. MDH estimates that the highest exposures occurred in the past to plant workers, their household contacts, and people who played in, handled, or otherwise had direct contact with wastes from the site. Residents who lived very near the plant also may have been exposed to asbestos-containing dust in the air from plant emissions. Lower level exposure occurred from the use of asbestos contaminated waste materials from the site in yards, gardens, and driveway surfaces and may be ongoing, but are being addressed through cleanup activities conducted by the EPA.