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Carbon monoxide in foundry air
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|January 1, 1976
Summary
High carbon monoxide (CO) levels were found in iron foundries, exceeding safe limits for 26% of nonsmokers and 71% of smokers. This study measured CO concentrations and worker blood carboxyhemoglobin levels.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Science
- Industrial Hygiene
Background:
- Foundries utilize sand molding processes, potentially exposing workers to hazardous air contaminants.
- Carbon monoxide (CO) is a common byproduct of industrial processes, posing significant health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations in iron, steel, and copper alloy foundries.
- To measure blood carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels in foundry workers exposed to CO.
Main Methods:
- Air sampling was conducted in 67 sand molding foundries, with approximately 1,100 CO determinations.
- Blood COHb levels were measured in 145 workers from iron foundries.
Main Results:
- Elevated CO concentrations were identified near cupolas and casting areas in iron foundries.
- Blood COHb levels exceeding 6% were observed in 26% of nonsmoking workers and 71% of smoking workers.
Conclusions:
- Iron foundries present significant CO exposure risks to workers.
- Smokers exhibit substantially higher carboxyhemoglobin levels, indicating greater CO burden.