NIOSH Develops Sampling Strategy in Evaluating Aircraft Hangers
Health and safety managers at a military facility requested NIOSH's help.
AIHA reported that NIOSH has helped a military facility develop a sampling strategy for aircraft hangars used to maintain, repair, and restore active and historic aircraft. The workers in the hangars use paint and paint removers on a variety of surfaces using low-pressure spray guns and rollers.
According to the NIOSH Health Hazard Evaulation report, this activity could cause polyurethanes, solvents, or metals to enter the atmosphere. Based on findings, the agency recommends the staff focus on areas of low airflow near exhaust fans in the hangars, as well as repairing and maintaining all fans connected to the ventilation system.