1. A plant has an operation that produces automotive headliners in a press. The

Question

1. A plant has an operation that produces automotive headliners in a press. The process uses a compound that contains methylene bisphenyl isocyanate (MDI). The compound containing MDI must be used in the production process to meet the client's specifications for the headliner. The OSHA PEL for MDI is 0.02 ppm as a ceiling concentration. Personal air samples collected for 15 minutes at the time when the press opens show that short-term exposures range from 0.02 ppm to 0.06 ppm. Using OSHA's Hierarchy of Controls, write one paragraph for the hazard scenario above that summarizes your approach to reducing the risks associated with the hazard. Indicate which type of hazard control you will use, and describe exactly how it will be used to control the hazard. Your response must be at least 200 words in length.

Explanation / Answer

The use of general ventilation can decrease methylene bisphenylisocyanate concentrations in the areaThe best way to reduce exposure to methylene bisphenyl isocyanate would be tosubstitute it with a less harmful chemical. However, this is not possible for this scenariosince methylene bisphenyl isocyanate must be used. The next best approach to reduceexposure to methylene bisphenyl isocyanate would be engineering controls. The use ofgeneral ventilation can decrease methylene bisphenyl isocyanate concentrations in the air.Local exhaust ventilation can also be used.The local exhaust intake can be placeddirectly at the opening of the press and can draw the harmful vapors away beforeemployees are exposed to them. If installing a new ventilation system is not possible orpractical then work practice controls can be applied. Employees can rotate in and out ofthe press area and take longer more frequent breaks, although this might not be the mostpractical control method. If none of the control methods previously mentioned can beused in this scenario then personal protective equipment should be used. The employershould provide respirators to all employees working in the press area. The employeesshould be educated on the hazards associated with exposure to methylene bisphenylisocyanate. The employees should also be trained on proper use of the suppliedrespirators and management should strictly enforce their use.

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