Industry News
Silica Exposure in School Ceramics Art Studio
A National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health investigation evaluated potential exposure to respirable crystalline silica, airborne dust, and metals in a North Carolina school ceramics and visual arts studio.
The report found no detectable levels of silica, respirable dust, or metals in air samples collected during classroom activities. However, airborne particle concentrations increased during ceramics classes, and surface testing identified metals, including lead and cadmium, throughout the studio, raising concerns about cleaning practices and potential exposure.
NIOSH recommended improving ventilation, implementing more effective wet-cleaning procedures, and strengthening chemical storage and housekeeping practices. The report emphasizes the importance of controlling potential silica exposure, maintaining indoor air quality, and reducing contamination risks in educational art environments.
Legionella Remediation for Water Systems
The Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) has released a new report, Legionella Remediation Options for Building Water Systems, outlining strategies to control Legionella bacteria and reduce the risk of Legionnaires’ disease.
The report examines chemical disinfection methods, including chlorine, chlorine dioxide, and monochloramine, while identifying conditions that promote bacterial growth, such as stagnant water, inadequate disinfectant levels, and biofilm accumulation. The report emphasizes that remediation may be necessary following disease outbreaks, water system disruptions, or failures in routine control measures.
The recommendations provide public health officials, environmental professionals, and building operators with practical strategies for protecting occupants and maintaining safer building water systems.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
A investigation identified indoor air quality concerns at a university building contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Investigators detected PCBs in indoor air, on surfaces, and in building materials, identifying HVAC duct insulation sealant as the likely primary source.
Although airborne PCB levels were below EPA reference levels, some surface contamination exceeded established thresholds. An analysis of 4,660 employees also identified elevated rates of certain cancers.
The findings highlight potential health concerns associated with contaminated indoor environments. NIOSH recommended addressing contaminated materials, preventing further exposure, and evaluating additional health research.
Peracetic Acid Exposure at a Beverage Facility
Investigators identified indoor air quality concerns related to peracetic acid (PAA) exposure at a beverage manufacturing facility after measuring airborne concentrations of the chemical, which is used to sterilize beverage containers, and surveying employees about work-related health symptoms.
The report emphasizes the importance of effective ventilation, preventive maintenance, and air monitoring to reduce chemical exposures and improve indoor environmental conditions. Investigators recommended improving ventilation systems to capture PAA vapors.
The findings underscore the need for proactive indoor air quality management in manufacturing facilities, particularly where chemical disinfectants are routinely used.
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