The Finnish foundry project. Background and general methodology

Abstract

The general methodology of the Finnish foundry project is presented. The project comprised dust measurements from all Finnish iron and steel foundries and a sample of nonferrous foundries, measurements of chemicals used in most foundries, and a mortality, morbidity and turnover study of active and retired foundry workers. The total budget of the project was Fmk 1,155,000 ($ 305,000). It was started in April 1972 and completed in May 1975. The project had the practical objective of developing recommendations for improvements in work conditions in individual foundries. More specific details of the methodology are reported in other communications.