Perceived Occupational and Environmental Exposures: A Case Study of Former Uranium Millworkers

Former uranium millworkers (83 American Indians and 87 non-Indians) who were employed at several mills in the Southwest prior to the Mine Safety and Health Act (MSHA) were interviewed. They were asked questions about their perceptions of working conditions, their health, and their families' living environments. Almost 90% identified a work environment in which they noted uranium concentrate (yellowcake) and/or ore dust on their clothing. Most respondents also brought their work clothing home to be washed. Half the respondents attributed health problems to the millwork, with the Indians more than twice as likely as the non-Indians to do so. Psychosocial stress experienced by many millworkers and their families is discussed.