Investigation and control of occupational hazards associated with the use of spirit duplicators

A Health Hazard Evaluation was conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to determine if vapors from duplicating fluid (99% methyl alcohol) used in direct-process spirit duplicating machines were causing adverse health effects among teacher aides, or had been responsible for the deaths of three former teacher aides. Death certificates and autopsy data were obtained and evaluated. A self-administered symptom questionnaire was distributed to current teacher aides (exposed group) and to a comparison group of teachers. Fifteen-minute breathing zone air samples for methyl alcohol vapor were collected at operator stations using an infrared gas analyzer. No information supported the claim that the three deaths were related to methyl alcohol exposure. Teacher aides reported significantly more blurred vision, headache, dizziness, and nausea than the comparison group. Concentrations of airborne methyl alcohol ranged from 365-3080 ppm; 15 of 21 measurements exceeded the NIOSH-recommended 15-minute exposure limit of 800 ppm. A mean 96% reduction in vapor concentration was accomplished using inexpensive enclosures and existing room exhaust systems.