Mortality in workers in electromechanical and electronics production

Concern expressed by a local union over excess cancer deaths at an electronics and electromechanical manufacturing facility for aircraft and missile applications prompted this mortality study. Chemical exposures included halogenated solvents, cutting fluids, solder fluxes, epoxy resins, cyanoacrylate resins, and acrylonitrile-based resins. From 1965 to 1979 there were 30 deaths from cancer among female workers; 15.5 was the expected number. From 1970 to 1979 there appeared to be significant excess proportions of deaths attributable to pancreatic cancer in men and women and of colon cancer, stomach cancer and ovarian cancer in women. From 1980 through 1983, there has been no evidence of increased cancer; however, the numbers are small. The authors recommend that an independent hygiene assessment be made of current production, paying strict attention to ventilation systems, resin handling systems, solvent use, and cutting fluid control in the grinding and maching operations. The establishment of a hazardous-materials control committee is recommended.