Health hazard evaluation report HETA 83-451-1547, Armstrong World Industries, Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Breathing zone samples were analyzed for azodicarbonamide (123773) at Armstrong World Industries (SIC-3079), Lancaster, Pennsylvania in November/December, 1983 and January, 1984. The evaluation was requested confidentially by the employees due to the occurrence of irritative symptoms among workers handling azodicarbonamide. Work practices were observed. Thirty nine exposed and 44 never exposed workers were interviewed. Pulmonary function tests were administered. Worker azodicarbonamide exposures were divided into three categories: direct, indirect, and not exposed. The occurrence of asthmatic and nose and eye irritative symptoms was significantly higher among workers who were exposed to azodicarbonamide than among thoese who had not exposure. The authors conclude that exposure to azodicarbonamide presents a potential respiratory hazard to the workers at the facility. Recommendations include improving work practices, correcting the local exhaust systems, implementing engineering controls and a hazard communication system.