A Michigan OSHA enforcement inspection was conducted
in the Simulation Room, which included querying coworkers
about breathing problems. Air concentrations of
MDI were below the level of detection. The inspection
revealed that many employees working in the Simulation
Room had no knowledge or training about MDI, including
the inadequacy of surgical masks. The industrial hygienist
noted that latex gloves worn by the radiation therapists were
not protective against isocyanates [NIOSH, 1999a], and
recommended butyl, nitrile, or neoprene gloves. Among the
nine co-workers interviewed, one had developed asthma and
one other radiation therapist had developed breathing
problems consistent with asthma since working with MDI.
A medical surveillance program for workers in the area with
potential exposure to MDI was recommended.