Retrospective Estimation of Exposures to Confirmed or Suspected Carcinogens in an Electrical Utility
Deadman, JE; Church, G; Bradley, C; Armstrong, B; Theriault, G
| HERO ID | 1877201 |
|---|---|
| In Press | No |
| Year | 1995 |
| Title | Retrospective Estimation of Exposures to Confirmed or Suspected Carcinogens in an Electrical Utility |
| Authors | Deadman, JE; Church, G; Bradley, C; Armstrong, B; Theriault, G |
| Journal | Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene |
| Volume | 10 |
| Issue | 10 |
| Page Numbers | 856-869 |
| Abstract | Exposures to potentially confounding chemical and physical agents were estimated as part of a study on the relationship between cancer and chronic exposure to electric and magnetic fields among electrical workers. Confirmed or suspected carcinogen (CSC) exposure estimates for 64 job categories from 1950 through 1990 were presented for the Hydrouebec electrical utility. A list associating 57 tasks and general exposures with exposure to one or more CSC was provided. Interviews of foremen and senior workers identified 24 CSC and 15 surrogate exposures present at the facility. Long term exposure was limited to skin exposure to dielectric oils. Acute inhalation exposure to asbestos (1332214), carbon dust, chromium (7440473), nickel (7440020), and methylene-chloride (75092) and skin exposure to mineral oils, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and sunlight were considered for equipment electricians and mechanics in generation and substation repair and maintenance. Regular dermal exposure to wood preservatives was seen for distribution linemen. Exposures for other trades were considered low or rare. No chronic exposures were found to exceed threshold limit values (TLV). Exposure data on 11 CSCs identified in the OSHA National Health Sampling Results as well as surrogate exposure were summarized. Estimated exposures to CSCs classified by job category and time weighted average inhalation exposure were provided. Exposures to specific agents such as asbestos, dielectric oils and PCBs, diesel and gasoline exhaust, herbicides, soldering and welding fumes, solvent use, paint, and wooden poles and wood treatment, were discussed. Activities involving acute exposure to asbestos included cutting/removing gaskets, installing or removing asbestos wrapping, brake work on vehicles or turbine alternators, and working with asbestos blankets, panels or tiles. Dielectric oils and PCBs were the most common exposures, with 21 trades having regular skin contact. The authors conclude that long term exposure rarely exceeded 25% of the TLV for a CSC. |
| Is Certified Translation | No |
| Dupe Override | No |
| Is Public | Yes |