Industrial hygiene survey. Tenneco Chemicals, Inc. , Intermediates Division, Reading, Pennsylvania

A walk through survey was conducted to assess methods to control occupational exposure to benzidine (92875) (Bzd) at Tenneco Chemicals, Incorporated (SIC-2869), Reading, Pennsylvania, in March 1973. The facility relied primarily on isolation of some of the operations, most notably the reactor charging. The use of personal protective equipment, and rigorous precautions and decontamination procedures to minimize exposure were also in effect. The efficacy of the decontamination program was tested by periodically analyzing samples taken from the plastic linings of the drums that originally held benzidine-sulfate (50322844). The authors recommend that all areas of Bzd handling be completely isolated and that nonessential personnel and visitors in these areas be minimized. Bzd operators should be trained in the proper use and removal of protective clothing. Air, surface, and urine samples should be obtained and monitored to test the effectiveness of the decontamination and protection programs.