Evaluation of Beryllium, Total Chromium and Nickel in the Surface Contaminant Layer Available for Dermal Exposure After Abrasive Blasting in a Shipyard

Abstract

Abrasive blasting is conducted at naval shipyards to prepare surfaces for painting and protection. This study used analyzed results from air and surface samples to detem1ine if there is a skin exposure avenue for beryllium, total chromium and nickel through the surface contaminant layer after abrasive blasting. Areas exposed and not exposed to abrasive blasting were sampled to determine if there was a difference between these two areas.Surface samples were collected using wipes in the areas where abrasive blasting was conducted and in adjacent non-exposed areas. Blasting areas were chosen because prior air sampling surveys determined these metals of interest were present. The blasting areas were both aboard submarines and in the building used for abrasive blasting with coal grit. Equipment surfaces that were not exposed to abrasive blasting were sampled to determine the background amounts of beryllium, nickel and total chromium. The samples were sent to the Comprehensive Industrial Hygiene Lab Norfolk for analysis of Be, Ni, and total Cr.All surface sample results from the exposed and unexposed areas were below level of detection for beryllium. Results determined that a greater concentration of total chromium and nickel was found in exposed area samples than the non-exposed area samples. Data determined there was a greater amount of metals of interest from samples taken aboard submarines than sample taken from Building 286.