Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to K W Vorpahl.
An extensive study of a hot forging operation was performed to characterize and quantitate worker exposures to the aerosol formed by an oil-based die lubricant and it's decomposition products. Total particulate breathing zone levels up to 65 mg/m3 and benzo (a) pyrene levels up to 2.9 mug/m3 were measured.
Breathing zone samples obtained at a production arc welding operation employing approximately 90 welders demonstrated excessive exposure to chromium from the welding of high chromium alloy steel. Breathing zone samples were collected inside welding helmets. Methods considered for reducing employee exposure included local exhaust ventilation and the use of air-supplied helmets. Air-supplied helmets were chosen as best suited for the production scheme and suitable devices were subsequently developed that reduced breathing zone contaminant levels well below applicable standards.
The potential health hazards associated with high-power laser systems are not limited to the direct beam. In addition to the obvious hazards of direct beam exposure of personnel, environmental problems may arise from electrically-energized equipment, excessive noise from the laser itself, and from hazardous fumes, gases, and vapors originating from components of the laser or from the target material.