Oven/Heat Exposure Limits

[ataslaki]

Since the installation of a large forced-air convection oven in the plant we've been concerned with the amount and temperature of heat the employees are exposed to every time they open the door to the oven. The frequency of opening and closing the door is every 30-60 seconds, and the maximum temperature set point is 250°F. However, the circulation fan in the oven remains on when the door is opened.

There are numerous Engineering controls that can be applied to minimize the blow of hot air on the face of the employee while opening the door. However, I'm looking for some source of code that talks about heat/temperature exposure limits, applied to direct oven heat and NOT ambient plant heat.

I've done extensive searches and talked to the local OSHA people; all hint that there is no local or federal code for exposure to heat, other than the fact that all employers are bound to give their employees a safe and healthy work environment. ANSI Z117-1 (working in confined spaces) does not cover this topic.

My question... Ignoring the comfort level, what temperature is considered unhealthy or unsafe without Personal Protective gear? It sounds more like a medical question, but if anyone has experience with ovens and furnaces, please give me a hint where to find some guidelines in this matter.

For example, I've heard that "too much heat, causes lung damage". Any truth to this statement?

Thanks

 

[quark]

Ataslaki!

Recently I went through an article, which describes the above issue. Two research associates conducted tests to check the capability to withstand heat. Two of them sat in the oven for two hours with oven temperature being maintained at 150⁰F in dry condition, and did the test with others later.

As I thought the article has no practical significance, I didn't keep track of it.

I never heard of lung damage, but dehydration starts above 105⁰F. (As we people get exposed to high summer temperatures of 110⁰F, we have a higher capability)

I will just try to find the link.

Regards,

 

[quark]

Check these links

http://www.weather.org.hk/wxindices.html

http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0001433.html

Regards,

 

[automatic2]

Don't ignore the 'comfort' aspect. When an employee is subjected to conditions outside of thier comfort zone, concerns are voiced. In reality, you are seeking what is the boundaries of 'comfort', knowing that exceeding them will require additional resources (protective gear) to compensate.
Repetitive heat exposure will cause increased dehydration, along with a suppression of motor skills. Persons with extended exposures will adapt to some level.
At 250ºF you are generating byproducts of oven primary contents. Exposure to these may be of concern.

I've worked in the steel industry for some years, where reheat and arc furnaces require stringent protective gear. The only guidelines we followed where that the employee was required to provide appropriate protection, and that the employer worked with the employees to explore alternatives and innovations.

Talking with your employees may well resolve any concerns.