An industrial hygiene appraisal of triethylamine and dimethylethylamine exposure limits in the foundry industry.

For nearly two decades, triethylamine and dimethylethylamine have been used as catalysts for phenolic urethane cold box binders in the foundry industry. During that time there have been reports of employees experiencing visual disturbances as a result of exposure to these amines. Some of these accounts have reported visual disturbances occurring at exposure levels below present limits. This study was conducted to define visual effects experienced by employees and to determine ambient concentrations at which effects were occurring. Study results suggest that present exposure limits may not be adequate to prevent the occurrence of visual disturbances. Suggested exposure guidelines have been developed which, it is believed, will prevent the occurrence of these unwanted effects.