Health Hazard Evaluation Report HETA 84-128-1601, Harshaw/Filtrol, Louisville, Kentucky

Environmental and breathing-zone samples were analyzed for 3,3'-dichlorobenzidine (DCB) and ortho-dianisidine (ODA) at Harshaw/Filtrol, Louisville, Kentucky in August, 1984. The evaluation was requested by the union to investigate possible exposures to suspected bladder carcinogens. Urine and skin samples were obtained from four potentially exposed workers and analyzed for ODA and DCB. The authors conclude that a potential health hazard exists due to ODA exposure at the facility. DCB does not pose a health risk. Recommendations include improving housekeeping and decontamination procedures for DCB, handling ODA as a suspect carcinogen by applying appropriate engineering controls and using personal protective equipment, and performing periodic monitoring for urinary DCB and ODA.