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Peyre-Costa D, Stjernbrandt A, Wahlström J, Ikäheimo TM, Höper AC. Self-reported exposure to dust and diesel exhaust, respiratory symptoms, and use of respiratory protective equipment among Arctic miners. Int J Circumpolar Health 2024; 83:2343125. [PMID: 38626426 PMCID: PMC11022915 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2024.2343125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Arctic miners face significant risks from diesel exhaust and dust exposure, potentially leading to adverse respiratory health. Employers must limit harmful exposures, using personal protective equipment (PPE) as a last line of defense. This study explored the association between reported respiratory exposure and symptoms, and PPE training and usage. Data from the MineHealth study (2012-2014) included a total of 453 Arctic open pit miners in Norway, Sweden, and Finland. Participants answered questions on exposure to dust and diesel exhaust, respiratory symptoms, and PPE use, in addition to age, gender, BMI, smoking, and self-rated health. Estimated exposure to dust was common, reported by 91%, 80%, and 82% and that of diesel exhaust by 84%, 43%, and 47% of workers in Sweden, Finland, and Norway, respectively. Reported dust exposure was significantly related to respiratory symptoms (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.3-3.7), diesel exposure increased the occurrence of wheezing (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.3-5.4). PPE use varied between the studied mines. Non-use was common and related to reduced visibility, wetness, skin irritation and fogging of the respiratory PPE. Future research should employ more precise exposure assessment, respiratory function as well as explore the reasons behind the non-compliance of PPE use.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Peyre-Costa
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Albin Stjernbrandt
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jens Wahlström
- Section of Sustainable Health, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Tiina Maria Ikäheimo
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Research Unit of Population Health, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anje Christina Höper
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Elkama A, Şentürk K, Karahalil B. Assessment of genotoxicity biomarkers in gasoline station attendants due to occupational exposure. Toxicol Ind Health 2024; 40:337-351. [PMID: 38597775 DOI: 10.1177/07482337241247089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Gasoline station attendants are exposed to numerous chemicals that might have genotoxic and carcinogenic potential, such as benzene in fuel vapor and particulate matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in vehicle exhaust emission. According to IARC, benzene and diesel particulates are Group 1 human carcinogens, and gasoline has been classified as Group 2A "possibly carcinogenic to humans." At gas stations, self-service is not implemented in Turkey; fuel-filling service is provided entirely by employees, and therefore they are exposed to those chemicals in the workplace during all working hours. Genetic monitoring of workers with occupational exposure to possible genotoxic agents allows early detection of cancer. We aimed to investigate the genotoxic damage due to exposures in gasoline station attendants in Turkey. Genotoxicity was evaluated by the Comet, chromosomal aberration, and cytokinesis-block micronucleus assays in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Gasoline station attendants (n = 53) had higher tail length, tail intensity, and tail moment values than controls (n = 61). In gasoline station attendants (n = 46), the frequencies of chromatid gaps, chromosome gaps, and total aberrations were higher compared with controls (n = 59). Increased frequencies of micronuclei and nucleoplasmic bridges were determined in gasoline station attendants (n = 47) compared with controls (n = 40). Factors such as age, duration of working, and smoking did not have any significant impact on genotoxic endpoints. Only exposure increased genotoxic damage in gasoline station attendants independently from demographic and clinical characteristics. Occupational exposure-related genotoxicity risk may increase in gasoline station attendants who are chronically exposed to gasoline and various chemicals in vehicle exhaust emissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Elkama
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Kerem Şentürk
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dicle University, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | - Bensu Karahalil
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Eastern Mediterranean University, Famagusta, Turkey
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Arsal Yıldırım S, Pekey B, Aydin L, Peker Karatoprak A, Kolaylı F, Argun Barış S, Er DK, Yazıcı Özçelik E, Yapsakli K. Occupational Risks of Podologists: A Combined Assessment of VOCs, Vibration, Noise Levels and Health Complaints. Int J Environ Health Res 2024; 34:2529-2543. [PMID: 37805703 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2256684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Podologists are exposed to many occupational hazards, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from insole manufacturing and noise/vibration during nail or tissue grinding. In this study, VOCs, noise, and vibration were measured in five podiatry clinics and three offices. Questionnaires were administered to 23 podologists and 19 office workers to inquire about their pain, ocular, skin and respiratory complaints. The results showed that the podologists' exposure to the total VOC concentrations was approximately twice as high as that of the office workers. The podologists' complaints regarding pain were found to be correlated with ambient noise and hand-arm vibration levels. Ocular, skin, and respiratory complaints were also found to be correlated with total VOC concentrations. These results suggest that VOCs, noise and vibration in the working environment may impair podologists' health and that they have an intensifying effect on each other, increasing the severity of health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serap Arsal Yıldırım
- Vocational School of Kocaeli Health Services, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Beyhan Pekey
- Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Levent Aydin
- Vocational School of Kocaeli Health Services, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | | | - Fetiye Kolaylı
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Microbiology Dept, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Serap Argun Barış
- Faculty of Medicine, Chest Diseases, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Doğanhan Kadir Er
- Department of Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Institue, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Eda Yazıcı Özçelik
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Microbiology Dept, Kocaeli University, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Kozet Yapsakli
- Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Paiva AM, Barros B, Oliveira M, Alves S, Esteves F, Fernandes A, Vaz J, Slezáková K, Teixeira JP, Costa S, Morais S. Biomonitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure and short-time health effects in wildland firefighters during real-life fire events. Sci Total Environ 2024; 926:171801. [PMID: 38508274 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Human biomonitoring data retrieved from real-life wildland firefighting in Europe and, also, worldwide are scarce. Thus, in this study, 176 Portuguese firefighters were biomonitored pre- and post- unsimulated wildfire combating (average:12-13 h; maximum: 55 h) to evaluate the impact on the levels of urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons hydroxylated metabolites (OHPAH; quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection) and the associated short-term health effects (symptoms, and total and differentiated white blood cells). Correlations between these variables and data retrieved from the self-reported questionnaires were also investigated. Firefighters were organized into four groups according to their exposure to wildfire emissions and their smoking habits: non-smoking non-exposed (NSNExp), non-smoking exposed (NSExp), smoking non-exposed (SNExp), and smoking and exposed (SExp). The most abundant metabolites were 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 1-hydroxyacenaphthene (1OHNaph + 1OHAce) (98-99 %), followed by 2-hydroxyfluorene (2OHFlu) (0.2-1.1 %), 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (1OHPhen) (0.2-0.4 %), and 1-hydroxypyrene (1OHPy) (0.1-0.2 %); urinary 3-hydroxybenzo(a)pyrene was not detected. The exposure to wildfire emissions significantly elevated the median concentrations of each individual and total OHPAH compounds in all groups, but this effect was more pronounced in non-smoking (1.7-4.2 times; p ≤ 0.006) than in smoking firefighters (1.3-1.6 times; p ≤ 0.03). The greatest discriminant of exposure to wildfire emissions was 1OHNaph + 1OHAce (increase of 4.2 times), while for tobacco smoke it was 2OHFlu (increase of 10 times). Post-exposure, white blood cells count significantly increased ranging from 1.4 (smokers, p = 0.025) to 3.7-fold (non-smokers, p < 0.001), which was accompanied by stronger significant correlations (0.480 < r < 0.882; p < 0.04) between individual and total OHPAH and total white blood cells (and lymphocytes > monocytes > neutrophils in non-smokers), evidencing the impact of PAH released from wildfire on immune cells. This study identifies Portuguese firefighters with high levels of biomarkers of exposure to PAH and points out the importance of adopting biomonitoring schemes, that include multiple biomarkers of exposure and biomarkers of effect, and implementing mitigations strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Paiva
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Alves
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, UICISA: E, Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Filipa Esteves
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Adília Fernandes
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, UICISA: E, Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Josiana Vaz
- CIMO, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Centro de Investigação de Montanha, Campus Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; SusTEC, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Sustec - Associate Laboratory for Sustainability and Technology in Inland Regions, Campus Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Klára Slezáková
- LEPABE-ALiCE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Solange Costa
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal.
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Kander MC, Mayer AC, Wilkinson AF, Bertke S, Kesler RM, Smith DL, Horn GP, Fent KW. Evaluating workplace protection factors (WPFs) of different firefighter PPE interface control measures for select volatile organic compounds (VOCs). J Occup Environ Hyg 2024; 21:353-364. [PMID: 38560919 PMCID: PMC11073914 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2024.2323109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Structural firefighters are exposed to a complex set of contaminants and combustion byproducts, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Additionally, recent studies have found structural firefighters' skin may be exposed to multiple chemical compounds via permeation or penetration of chemical byproducts through or around personal protective equipment (PPE). This mannequin-based study evaluated the effectiveness of four different PPE conditions with varying contamination control measures (incorporating PPE interface design features and particulate blocking materials) to protect against ingress of several VOCs in a smoke exposure chamber. We also investigated the effectiveness of long-sleeve base layer clothing to provide additional protection against skin contamination. Outside gear air concentrations were measured from within the smoke exposure chamber at the breathing zone, abdomen, and thigh heights. Personal air concentrations were collected from mannequins under PPE at the same general heights and under the base layer at abdomen and thigh heights. Sampled contaminants included benzene, toluene, styrene, and naphthalene. Results suggest that VOCs can readily penetrate the ensembles. Workplace protection factors (WPFs) were near one for benzene and toluene and increased with increasing molecular weight of the contaminants. WPFs were generally lower under hoods and jackets compared to under pants. For all PPE conditions, the pants appeared to provide the greatest overall protection against ingress of VOCs, but this may be due in part to the lower air concentrations toward the floor (and cuffs of pants) relative to the thigh-height outside gear concentrations used in calculating the WPFs. Providing added interface control measures and adding particulate-blocking materials appeared to provide a protective benefit against less-volatile chemicals, like naphthalene and styrene.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Christina Kander
- Department of Environmental & Public Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Alexander C Mayer
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Andrea F Wilkinson
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Stephen Bertke
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Richard M Kesler
- Fire Safety Research Institute, UL Research Institutes, Columbia, Maryland, USA
| | - Denise L Smith
- Health and Human Physiological Sciences, Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, New York, USA
- Illinois Fire Service Institute, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, USA
| | - Gavin P Horn
- Fire Safety Research Institute, UL Research Institutes, Columbia, Maryland, USA
| | - Kenneth W Fent
- Division of Field Studies and Engineering, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Choi S, Lee KM, Park H, Shim GB, Lee SW, Kim YJ, Lee ES, Kim Y, Kang D, Park JH, Kim SY. Development of the Korean construction job exposure matrix (KoConJEM) based on experts' judgment using the 60 consolidated occupations for construction workers. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:397-408. [PMID: 38536905 PMCID: PMC11033576 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was conducted as an effort to develop a Korean construction job exposure matrix (KoConJEM) based on 60 occupations recently consolidated by the construction workers mutual aid association for use by the construction industry. METHODS The probability, intensity, and prevalence of exposure to 26 hazardous agents for 60 consolidated occupations were evaluated as binary (Yes/No) or four categories (1 to 4) by 30 industrial hygiene experts. The score for risk was calculated by multiplying the exposure intensity by the prevalence of exposure. Fleiss' kappa for each hazardous agent and occupation was used to determine agreement among the 30 experts. The JEM was expressed on a heatmap and a web-based dashboard to facilitate comparison of factors affecting exposure according to each occupation and hazardous agent. RESULTS Awkward posture, heat/cold, heavy lifting, and noise were hazardous agents regarded as exposure is probable by at least one or more experts in all occupations, while exposure to asphalt fumes was considered hazardous in the smallest number of occupations (n = 5). Based on the degree of agreement among experts, more than half of the harmful factors and most occupations showed fair to good results. The highest risk value was 16 for awkward posture for most occupations other than safety officer. CONCLUSIONS The KoConJEM provides information on the probability, intensity, and prevalence of exposure to harmful factors, including most occupations employing construction workers; therefore, it may be useful in the conduct of epidemiological studies on assessment of health risk for construction workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangjun Choi
- Graduate School of Public Health and Healthcare Management, The Catholic University of Korea, 222, Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06591, Korea
- Catholic Institute for Public Health and Healthcare Management, 222, Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul 06591, Korea
| | - Kwang Min Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
| | - Hyunhee Park
- Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, 400, Jongga-ro, Jung-gu, Ulsan 44429, Korea
| | - Gyu-Beom Shim
- Research Center, Construction Workers Mutual Aid Association (CWMA), 109, Namdaemun-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 04522, Korea
| | - Sun Woo Lee
- GaoN Institute of Occupational Environment Research,13, Minam-ro 132 beon-gil, Dongnae-gu, Busan 47821, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Ji Kim
- Department of Preventive and Occupational & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, 49, Busandaehak-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
| | - Eun-Soo Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
| | - Youngki Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
- Department of Preventive and Occupational & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, 49, Busandaehak-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
| | - Dongmug Kang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
- Department of Preventive and Occupational & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, 49, Busandaehak-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
| | - Ju-Hyun Park
- Department of Statistics, Dongguk University, 30 Phildong-ro 1-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul 04620, Korea
| | - Se-Yeong Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, 20, Geumo-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
- Department of Preventive and Occupational & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, 49, Busandaehak-ro, Yangsan 50612, Korea
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Therkorn JH, Mathewson BA, Laursen CJ, Maberti S, Aizenberg V, Dinkelacker BT, Rege S. Methods to assess dermal exposures in occupational settings: a scoping review. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:351-365. [PMID: 38466914 PMCID: PMC11033572 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The dermal exposure route is expected to become increasingly significant relative to total worker exposure as inhalational exposure limits continue to decrease. However, standardization of occupational exposure assessment methods and scientific consensus are needed. This is the first scoping review mapping the literature across all dermal exposure assessment methods and their targeted substances/chemicals in occupational settings. METHODS Eligibility criteria broadly included studies reporting any noninvasive dermal exposure assessment method in an occupational setting. The literature search (Web of Science and MEDLINE) was restricted to peer-reviewed, primary literature published in the last 20 years (2002-2022). Titles/abstracts were dual independently screened. Data charting was performed by a single reviewer using standard template. All stages were pilot tested. The JBI (formerly, the Joanna Briggs Institute) scoping review methods and PRISMA-ScR checklist (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) were used. RESULTS In total, 493 articles were data charted and categorized by 4 study types: methods development (22%), exposure assessment (51%), health outcomes (21%), and controls assessment (6%). Fourteen types of dermal exposure assessment methods were charted with biomarkers (51%), dosimeters (21%), and qualitative assessments such as questionnaires or surveys (17%) most common. Seventeen different chemicals/substances were charted; pesticides (28%) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) (22%) associated with crude oil products and combustion were most common. Mapping between substances and exposure assessment method categories, pesticide dosimeters (11%), and PAH biomarker studies (14%) were most reported. Literature gaps were identified for cleaning agents, hair dyes, glycol ether, N,N-dimethylformamide/N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, dioxins, and bisphenol A. CONCLUSIONS To foster scientific consensus, standardization across study reporting is needed for describing: (i) exposure assessment methods used, (ii) worker tasking/conditions, (iii) targeted substances and substance state, and (iv) targeted exposure routes. Overall, this review categorizes, maps, and defines the scope of literature for occupational dermal exposure assessment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer H Therkorn
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 U.S. Highway 22 East, Annandale, NJ, United States
| | - Brittany A Mathewson
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 U.S. Highway 22 East, Annandale, NJ, United States
| | - Christopher J Laursen
- ExxonMobil Technology & Engineering, 22777 Springwoods Village Parkway, Spring, TX, United States
| | - Silvia Maberti
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 U.S. Highway 22 East, Annandale, NJ, United States
| | - Vitaly Aizenberg
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 U.S. Highway 22 East, Annandale, NJ, United States
| | - Brian T Dinkelacker
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 U.S. Highway 22 East, Annandale, NJ, United States
| | - Saumitra Rege
- ExxonMobil Biomedical Sciences, Inc., 1545 U.S. Highway 22 East, Annandale, NJ, United States
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Gyte A, Kelsey A. Working with cattle slurry on farms: emission and dispersion of hydrogen sulfide gas during stirring. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:387-396. [PMID: 38527239 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past 15 years, there have been numerous fatalities related to working with animal slurry. Working with cattle slurry releases toxic gases, in particular, hydrogen sulphide (H2S), which can cause acute central nervous system toxicity, breathing difficulties, and death if exposed to high concentrations. Real-time measurements of H2S gas were taken over distance and time, during the stirring of cattle slurry on farms. Gas was measured at eight slurry stores with differing typical configurations of indoor or outdoor stores and with or without slatted flooring. Highest H2S gas levels were measured from indoor stores under slatted floors, and generally at positions closest to the stirrer or the point of maximum stirring, with levels decreasing with distance from source. Most of the data indicate H2S gas levels increase very rapidly after stirring starts, and mostly decline to baseline levels within 30 min post start of stirring. There were, however, circumstances where gas levels remained high and only started to decline once the stirrer had stopped. H2S gas levels at all farms, at all positions measured were consistently below 10 ppm within 30 min of the stirrer being stopped. The current data highlight areas of the farm and ways of working that have the potential for workers and others to be at risk of exposure to toxic slurry gases. The area should be left to ventilate naturally for at least 30 min after the stirrer has been stopped before re-entering buildings. Influencing the design of stirring equipment and future slurry stores would likely reduce the risk of worker exposure to slurry gases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Gyte
- The Health and Safety Executive, The HSE Science and Research Centre, Harpur Hill, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 9JN, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Kelsey
- The Health and Safety Executive, The HSE Science and Research Centre, Harpur Hill, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 9JN, United Kingdom
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Cothern EJ, Autenrieth DA, Brazile WJ. A temporal evaluation of respirable crystalline silica exposure for construction tasks. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:437-441. [PMID: 38412287 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Personal air monitoring using a TSI SidePak AM520 personal aerosol monitor was performed on a northern Colorado construction site during five tasks from the OSHA Table 1: Specified Exposure Control Methods When Working With Materials Containing Crystalline Silica to estimate silica dust concentrations in real time. Photometric measurements were modified using a gravimetric correction factor and a % respirable crystalline silica adjustment. Each task was sampled once; sample time ranged from 14 min to 40 min, with a mean sample time of 27 min. The mean silica dust concentration estimates (μg/m3) (standard deviation [SD]) for the five tasks computed from the TSI SidePak AM520 respirable dust measurements were core drilling 12 μg/m3 [2.46], grinding 918 μg/m3 [1134.08], cutting with a walk-behind saw 36 μg/m3 [79.67], jackhammering 27 μg/m3 [23.24], and dowel drilling 66 μg/m3 [77.65]. Silica exposure estimates from real-time monitoring can be used to identify exposures that may be related to inadequate controls or worker behaviors that contribute to peak exposures. Respirable crystalline silica exposure estimates presented here are likely not generalizable to other construction sites or tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Cothern
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, 1681 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1681, United States
| | - Daniel A Autenrieth
- Safety, Health, and Industrial Hygiene Department, Montana Technological University, 1300 West Park Street, Butte, MT 59701, United States
| | - William J Brazile
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, 1681 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1681, United States
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Malakar B, Roy SK, Mondal MH, Roy A. Stone mining work and dust pollution in Birbhum district, West Bengal, India. Toxicol Ind Health 2024; 40:185-193. [PMID: 38349026 DOI: 10.1177/07482337241233310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Dust pollution is common in Indian roads and several industrial settings (including mines) that affects human health. Identification and characterization of the dust particles in the mining area is essential for knowing the properties of the dust that effectively causes ailments to humans, particularly among workers those who are working in unorganized industrial settings. The present study aimed to determine the level of dust pollution and to know the size and characterize the dust particles in the Pachami-Hatgacha stone mine areas of Birbhum district, West Bengal, India. Dust samples were collected and analysed for Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) to determine the size and shape of the particles, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) to determine the free silica content, and X-ray Florence (XRF) analysis for quantitative estimation of components in the sample. All the analyses were done following standard instrumentation and techniques. The size of the dust particles was much less (ranges 101-298 nm) than the size of respirable particles (2500 nm). Those were mostly generated as well as precipitated during peak working hours of the day. Presence of considerable amounts of silica was confirmed by the FT-IR (strong and broad band at 1000 cm-1) and XRF analysis (76.85% SiO2). Exposure to these dust particles may cause severe health impairments. Therefore, interventions like wet drilling and blasting, sprinkling of water during peak working hours, and awareness of use of personal protective devices among workers are required to reduce the risk and hazards associated with dust pollution to the health of miners and inhabitants around the mines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswanath Malakar
- Department of Anthropology, Government General Degree College Singur, India
| | - Subrata K Roy
- Biological Anthropology Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Ankit Roy
- Geological Survey of India, Kolkata, India
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Lee NM, Tadesse AW, Ekpe OD, Lee SY, Kwon JW, Kim W, Cho YH, Oh JE. Assessment of PAH exposure and health risks among South Korean firefighters based on urinary PAH metabolites. Chemosphere 2024; 353:141429. [PMID: 38364917 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) comprise a group of compounds resulting from the incomplete combustion of organic matter. Firefighters engaged in fire suppression are highly exposed to PAHs. This study centered on evaluating the exposure levels and health risks of PAHs in South Korean firefighters involved in firefighting activities. The concentrations of 10 PAH metabolites in the urine of firefighters were measured immediately after, and two weeks post their engagement in extinguishing a large tire factory fire. The levels of OH-PAHs in urine samples immediately after fire suppression were elevated by a factor of 1.01-1.84 compared to urine samples from non-exposed period. The median concentration of total PAH metabolites (OH-PAHs) was higher in urine samples immediately after fire suppression (5910 ng/g creatinine) than in urine samples from non-exposed periods (5020 ng/g creatinine). However, the ∑OH-PAH levels in firefighters' urine were related to personal habits such as smoking. The concentrations of all individual OH-PAHs in the urine samples of nonsmokers exhibited a substantial increase, ranging from 1.37 to 2.3 times, clearly demonstrating that firefighting activities were a substantial source of PAH exposure. The calculated values associated with the health risks stemming from exposure to PAHs, including carcinogenic risk, total estimated daily intake (TEDI), and hazard quotients/index (HQs/HI), all fell within acceptable limits, indicating negligible risk. However, the HQ/HI values and TEDI for individual and total PAH exposures, except those for naphthalene, were 1.36-2.00 times higher in firefighters' samples taken after firefighting operations compared to those during regular duty. This underscores the need for more comprehensive investigations to comprehend the singular impact of firefighting activities due to the diverse sources of PAH emissions in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Mi Lee
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Ababo Workineh Tadesse
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea; Ambo University, Ambo, Ethiopia
| | - Okon Dominic Ekpe
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - So Yun Lee
- National Fire Research Institute of Korea, Asan, 31555, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Woon Kwon
- National Fire Research Institute of Korea, Asan, 31555, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Kim
- Wonjin Institute for Occupational and Environmental Health, Seoul, 02221, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hwan Cho
- Wonjin Institute for Occupational and Environmental Health, Seoul, 02221, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Eun Oh
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea; Institute for Environment and Energy, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea.
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Badima H, Kumie A, Meskele B, Abaya SW. Welding fume exposure and prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms among welders in micro- and small-scale enterprise in Akaki Kality sub-city, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a comparative cross-sectional study. BMC Pulm Med 2024; 24:147. [PMID: 38509548 PMCID: PMC10956262 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-024-02958-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to welding fumes can lead to different respiratory health disorders, including lung cancer, due to long-term exposures. In Ethiopia, large numbers of people are engaged in the welding sector. Often, these workers are exposed to welding fumes at their workplaces, however, the level of exposure and its health effects have never been studied. OBJECTIVE To measure the level of personal welding fume exposure and assess chronic respiratory symptoms and associated factors, among micro and small-scale enterprise metal workshop workers, in Akaki Kality Sub city, Ethiopia. METHODS A comparative cross-sectional study involving 226 welders and 217 controls. Chronic respiratory symptoms were assessed using a standardized questionnaire adopted from the American Thoracic Society (ATS). Welding fumes were collected from the welder's breathing zone using 37 mm close-faced plastic cassettes fitted with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) filters connected to Casella pumps at an airflow rate of 2 L/min. RESULT The overall prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms among welders and controls were 54 (23.9%) and 20 (9.2%) respectively. The geometric mean and geometric standard deviation (GSD) of personal welding fume exposure, among welders was 5.98 mg/m3 (± GSD = 1.54). In this study, 53.3% of the samples exceeded the Occupational Exposure Limit defined by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygiene. Chronic respiratory symptoms were significantly associated with educational status (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 5.11, 95% CI: 1.35, 19.33), respiratory protective equipment use (AOR: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.52, 7.31), safety training (AOR: 2.41, 95% CI: 1.10, 5.28), smoking (AOR:3.57, 95% CI: 1.54, 8.23), welding machine maintenance (AOR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.01, 3.59) and welding site (i.e. indoors vs. outdoor) (AOR: 6.85. 95% CI: 2.36, 19.89). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms among welding workers was significantly higher than controls. More than half of the samples exceeded the Occupational Exposure Limit. Educational status, implementation of safety training, and welding sites were significantly associated with chronic respiratory symptoms. The results suggested a need to reduce welding fume exposure to improve the respiratory health of the workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hager Badima
- Addis Ababa City Administration Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abera Kumie
- Department Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa,, Ethiopia
| | - Bereket Meskele
- Addis Ababa City Administration Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Samson Wakuma Abaya
- Department Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa,, Ethiopia.
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Sifanu M, Kalebaila KK, Hayumbu P, Nabiwa L, Linde SJL. Personal respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica exposure in two shafts and a concentrator of a Zambian copper mine. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:269-279. [PMID: 38206108 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxad085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Since the 1920s, Zambia's mining sector has experienced growth, which has increased the number of mine workers employed in the industry. Consequently, the potential for occupational exposure and prevalence of occupational diseases have also increased. Unfortunately, Zambia does not currently have legislative guidelines for workplace air monitoring and compliance. This study's objectives were to evaluate copper miners' personal exposure to respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica (RCS) and to assess workplace compliance using the European Standard for workplace air monitoring and measurement (EN689:2018). METHODS This cross-sectional study collected 100 personal respirable dust exposure samples at a Zambian copper mine in 2023. These samples were weighed using NIOSH method 0600 and analyzed for crystalline silica using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (KBr pellet) (NIOSH method 7602). Additionally, 253 respirable dust exposure measurements collected at the mine between 2017 and 2022 were included for comparison. RESULTS The median respirable dust exposure for the 2023 exposure measurements was 0.200 mg/m3 (95th percentile 2.871 mg/m3) compared to 0.400 mg/m3 (95th percentile 3.050 mg/m3) for the historic data. The median RCS exposure was 0.012 mg/m3 (95th percentile 0.163 mg/m3). Using EN689:2018, it was found that from 15 work areas, only six work areas complied with the standard for respirable dust exposure and only seven work areas complied with the standard for RCS exposure. CONCLUSIONS At the mining site, several work areas had substantial exposure to respirable dust and RCS. Therefore, management needs to prioritize these areas when implementing control measures to reduce dust exposure. For the Zambia mining industry to manage exposure to respirable dust and RCS, it is necessary to implement standardized monitoring strategies. This study has demonstrated that EN689:2018 can be used successfully to determine compliance among Zambian mining work areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mwaba Sifanu
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Kennedy K Kalebaila
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Patrick Hayumbu
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Lubinda Nabiwa
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Stephanus J L Linde
- Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative, North-West University, Private Bag X1290, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
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Fonseca AS, Ribalta C, Shandilya N, Fransman W, Alstrup Jensen K. Development of handling energy factors for use of dustiness data in exposure assessment modelling. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:295-311. [PMID: 38401569 PMCID: PMC10941727 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxae009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Several exposure assessment models use dustiness as an input parameter for scaling or estimating exposure during powder handling. Use of different dustiness methods will result in considerable differences in the dustiness values as they are based on different emission generation principles. EN17199:2019 offers 4 different dustiness test methods considering different dust release scenarios (e.g. powder pouring, mixing and gentle agitation, and vibration). Conceptually, the dustiness value by a given method can be multiplied with a scenario-specific modifier, called a handling energy factor (Hi), that allows conversion of a dustiness value to a release constant. Therefore, a Hi, scaling the effective mechanical energy in the process to the energy supplied in the specific dustiness test, needs to be applied. To improve the accuracy in predictive exposure modelling, we derived experimental Hi to be used in exposure algorithms considering both the mass- and number-based dust release fraction determined by the EN17199-3 continuous drop (CD) and the EN17199-4 small rotating drum (SRD) test methods. Three materials were used to evaluate the relationship between dustiness and dust levels during pouring powder from different heights in a controlled environment. The results showed increasing scatter and difference between the Hi derived for the 2 test methods with increasing pouring height. Nearly all the Hi values obtained for both SRD and CD were <1 indicating that the dustiness tests involved more energy input than the simulated pouring activity and consequently de-agglomeration and dust generation were higher. This effect was most pronounced in CD method showing that SRD mechanistically resembles more closely the powder pouring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofia Fonseca
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carla Ribalta
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA), Nöldnerstr. 40-42, 10317 Berlin, Germany
| | - Neeraj Shandilya
- TNO, Risk Assessment of Products In Development, Utrechtseweg 48, 3704 HE Zeist, Netherlands
| | - Wouter Fransman
- TNO, Risk Assessment of Products In Development, Utrechtseweg 48, 3704 HE Zeist, Netherlands
| | - Keld Alstrup Jensen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Barbosa JV, Alvim-Ferraz MCM, Martins FG, Sousa SIV. Occupational exposure of firefighters to hazardous pollutants during prescribed fires in Portugal. Chemosphere 2024; 352:141355. [PMID: 38331261 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Firefighters perform high-risk activities and during the course of their functions are highly exposed to a wide range of occupational hazards, including air pollution. Thus, this study aimed to assess the exposure of firefighters in prescribed wildland fires and their occupational exposure, as well as to identify and chemically characterise the particles collected during wildland firefighting and inside fire stations. Exposure to wildfire smoke was evaluated in 7 prescribed fires in Portugal, 2 in the north and 5 in the south of Viseu district. The concentrations of PM2.5, NO2, SO2, CO and VOCs were monitored and exceedances to occupational exposure limit values were identified. Moreover, the chemical composition of PM2.5 was analysed. The results showed that firefighters were exposed to high concentrations of these pollutants during prescribed fires and that, in some cases, exceeded occupational exposure limits, both for time-weighted average concentrations for an 8-h working day (a time-weighted average, TWA) of PM2.5, and for short-term exposure values (STEL) of NO2 and SO2. Despite being exposed to very high concentrations of CO, no exceedances to the occupational exposure values were observed. FT-IR and SEM-EDS allowed to chemically characterise the composition of the particles collected inside the fire stations and also during wildland fires, identifying mainly quartz, aluminium and magnesium silicates, characteristic of earth's crust constituents. and also, fibres that have undergone combustion. Concluding, firefighters' exposure to high concentrations of harmful pollutants, can lead to the degradation of their respiratory health. It is therefore extremely important to increase existing knowledge and conduct further studies, especially longitudinal ones, that can assess their lung function. This will allow an understanding of the impacts of smoke on firefighters' health and develop effective strategies to protect them during wildland firefighting operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana V Barbosa
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria C M Alvim-Ferraz
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando G Martins
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia I V Sousa
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
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Aziz NAI, Feisal NAS, Ibrahim TNBT, Cheah WY, Kamaludin NH. Respirable dust exposure impact on respiratory symptoms among cleaners in a Selangor Public University, Malaysia. Med J Malaysia 2024; 79:110-116. [PMID: 38555894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cleaners perform a vital role in environmental health by keeping the place clean, but they are also exposed to various hazards. Yet, there is a lack of effective and accessible occupational safety standard measures, thus making this to be difficult to monitor the long-term health effects of cleaners. This study aims to determine the respirable dust exposure on respiratory symptoms among cleaners in a public university in Selangor. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out among 51 cleaners. The respondents' background information and respiratory symptoms were gathered using a series of standardised questionnaires validated by the American Thoracic Society (ATS-DLD-78-A). The 8- hour respirable dust exposure to cleaners was measured using an air sampling pump (Gillian & Sensodyne Gil Air 3). RESULTS The mean of respirable dust was lower than permissible exposure limit with 0.63±0.57mg/m3. The respiratory symptoms among the cleaners showed no significant association between cough, phlegm, and breathing difficulties with working tenure. Meanwhile, wheezing and coughing with phlegm have an almost significant association with working tenure among cleaners with (Χ2=1.00, p=0.08) and (Χ2=1.00, p=0.07) respectively. Exposure to respirable dust has exhibited 6 times the prevalence of coughing with phlegm among cleaners (PR=6.28, 95% CI: 0.44, 89.38). CONCLUSION The findings of this study demonstrated that the cleaners were significantly affected by the respirable dust. The cleaners' working environment has caused them to be exposed to respirable dust.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A I Aziz
- Universiti Teknologi MARA, Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Environmental Health and Safety, Puncak Alam Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - N A S Feisal
- Management and Science University, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Diagnostic and Allied Health Science, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - T N B T Ibrahim
- Universiti Teknologi MARA, Faculty of Health Sciences, Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management (OHSeRM) Research Initiative, Puncak Alam Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - W Y Cheah
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Centre of Research in Development, Social and Environment (SEEDS), Bangi, Selangor Daul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - N H Kamaludin
- Universiti Teknologi MARA, Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Environmental Health and Safety, Puncak Alam Campus, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Marchand G, Wingert L, Viegas C, Caetano L, Viegas S, Twaruzek M, Lacombe N, Lanoie D, Valois I, Gouin F, Soszczyńska E, Kosicki R, Dias M, Debia M. Assessment of waste workers occupational risk to microbial agents and cytotoxic effects of mixed contaminants present in the air of waste truck cabin and ventilation filters. J Air Waste Manag Assoc 2024; 74:145-162. [PMID: 38166349 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2023.2299424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Workers in the waste-processing industry are potentially exposed to high concentrations of biological contaminants, leading to respiratory and digestive problems and skin irritations. However, few data on the exposure of waste collection truck (WCT) drivers are available. The goal was to document the microbial risk of the waste collection truck (WCT) workers while in the vehicle cab. Long-period sampling using the truck air filters (CAF) and short time ambient air sampling in the cab were used. The potential release of microbial particles from CAFs was also investigated since it could contribute to the microbial load of the cabin air. A combination of analytical methods also helped assess the complex mixture of the biological agents. Aspergillus sections Fumigati and Flavi, E. coli, Enterobacter spp. and Legionella spp. were detected in the CAF of trucks collecting three types of waste. The highest levels of bacteria and fungi were found in the CAF from organic WCT. The highest endotoxin concentrations in CAF were 300 EU/cm2. Most of the CAF showed cytotoxic effects on both lung cells and hepatocytes. Only one mycotoxin was detected in a CAF. The maximal concentrations in the ambient WCT air varied according to the type of waste collected. The highest proportion (84%) of the air samples without cytotoxic effects on the lungs cells was for the recyclable material WCTs. The results revealed the potential microbial risk to workers from a complex mixture of bio-contaminants in the cabs of vehicles collecting all types of waste. The sustained cytotoxic effect indicates the potential adverse health-related impact of mixed contaminants (biological and non-biological) for the workers. Overall, this study highlights the benefits of using complementary sampling strategy and combined analytical methods for a the assessment of the microbial risk in work environments and the need to implement protective measures for the workers.Implications: Exposure to microbial agents is a well-known occupational hazard in the waste management sector. No previous study had evaluated the cytotoxicity of ambient air and ventilation filters to document worker exposure to a combination of contaminants during waste collection. This research confirms the usefulness of ventilation filters for long-term characterization of exposure to infectious agents, azole-resistant fungi, coliform bacteria and mycotoxin. Overall, this study highlights the importance of using several sampling and analysis methods for a comprehensive assessment of microbial risk in work environments, as well as the need to implement appropriate protective measures for collection workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Marchand
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Loïc Wingert
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Carla Viegas
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, In-stituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Liliana Caetano
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, In-stituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed. ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twaruzek
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Nancy Lacombe
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Delphine Lanoie
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Isabelle Valois
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Francois Gouin
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Ewelina Soszczyńska
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, In-stituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed. ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maximilien Debia
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
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Romero Starke K, Bolm-Audorff U, Reissig D, Seidler A. Dose-response-relationship between occupational exposure to diesel engine emissions and lung cancer risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 256:114299. [PMID: 38194821 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2012, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) concluded that diesel engine emissions (DEE) emissions cause cancer in humans. However, there is still controversy surrounding this conclusion, due to several studies since the IARC decision citing a lack of evidence of a dose-response relationship. OBJECTIVES Through a systematic review, we aimed to evaluate all evidence on the association between occupational DEE and lung cancer to investigate whether there is an increased risk of lung cancer for workers exposed to DEE and if so, to describe the dose-response relationship. METHODS We registered the review protocol with PROSPERO and searched for observational studies in relevant literature databases. Two independent reviewers screened the studies' titles/abstracts and full texts, and extracted and assessed their quality. Studies with no direct DEE measurement but with information on length of exposure for high-risk occupations were assigned exposure values based on the DEE Job-Exposure-Matrix (DEE-JEM). After assessing quality and informativeness, we selected appropriate studies for the dose-response meta-analysis. RESULTS Sixty-five reports (from thirty-seven studies) were included in the review; one had a low risk of bias (RoB) (RR per 10 μg/m3-years: 1.014 [95%CI 1.007-1.021]). There was an increased, statistically significant risk of lung cancer with increasing DEE exposure for all studies (RR per 10 μg/m3-years = 1.013 [95%CI 1.004-1.021]) as well as for studies with a low RoB in the exposure category (RR per 10 μg/m3-years = 1.008 [95% CI1.001-1.015]). We obtained a doubling dose of 555 μg/m3-years for all studies and 880 μg/m3-years for studies with high quality in the exposure assessment. DISCUSSION We found a linear positive dose-response relationship for studies with high quality in the exposure domain, even though all studies had an overall high risk of bias. Current threshold levels for DEE exposure at the workplace should be reconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Romero Starke
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Ulrich Bolm-Audorff
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - David Reissig
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Seidler
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Onyeso OK, Ugwu AK, Adandom HC, Damag S, Onyeso KM, Abugu JO, Aruma OE, Odole AC, Awosoga OA, Ezema CI. Impact of welding occupation on serum aluminium level and its association with physical health, cognitive function, and quality of life: a cross-sectional study. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2024; 97:133-144. [PMID: 38110550 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-023-02038-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is an occupational health concern about welders' inhalation of toxic aluminium fumes. We investigated whether serum aluminium level (SAL) and demographic variables can significantly predict physical health parameters, cognition, and quality of life (QoL) among welders. METHODS The cross-sectional study involved 100 age- and location-matched men (50 welders and 50 non-welders). SAL obtained using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer, and data collected using blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) apparatuses, biodata form, pain rating scale, General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition, WHOQoL-BREF, and Nordic musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) questionnaire were analysed using independent samples t test, chi-square, Pearson's correlation, and hierarchical linear regression. RESULTS Welders had significantly higher SAL (mean difference [MD] = 1.77 µg/L, p < 0.001), lower QoL (MD = 3.92, p = 0.039), and higher prevalence of MSS on the neck (χ2 = 10.187, p = 0.001), shoulder (χ2 = 9.007, p = 0.003), upper back (χ2 = 6.832, p = 0.009), and knee (χ2 = 12.190, p < 0.001) than non-welders. There was a significant bivariate association between SAL, systolic blood pressure (β = 0.313, p = 0.002), and BMI (β = 0.279, p = 0.005), but not pain intensity, cognition, or QoL. SAL remained a significant predictor of systolic blood pressure after adjustment for physical health and QoL parameters (β = 0.191, p = 0.044). The association between SAL and social QoL became significant after adjustment for physical health and other QoL domains (β = - 0.210, p = 0.032) and demographic variables (β = - 0.233, p = 0.046). CONCLUSION Welders had significantly higher SAL, musculoskeletal symptoms, blood pressure, and lower QoL than non-welders. SAL was associated with adverse physical health parameters and social-related QoL, not cognition. We recommend routine aluminium bioavailability and physical health checks among welders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ogochukwu Kelechi Onyeso
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada.
| | - Arinze Kingsley Ugwu
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria
| | | | - Suha Damag
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Kelechi Mirabel Onyeso
- Department of Estate Management, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - James Okechukwu Abugu
- Department of Marketing, Faculty of Business Administration, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Okwukweka Emmanuela Aruma
- Department of Applied Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied Natural Sciences, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Adesola Christiana Odole
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Charles Ikechukwu Ezema
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria
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20
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Saers JJ, Bryngelsson IL, Sundh J, Janson C, Andersson L. Occupational Dust Exposure as a Risk Factor for Developing Lung Function Impairment. J Occup Environ Med 2024; 66:e93-e98. [PMID: 38242136 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000003036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dust exposure is high in several industries. We investigated associations of exposure in paper mills, wood pellet plants, and iron foundries with lung function impairment. METHODS Respirable silica, inhalable paper dust, or inhalable wood dust were collected as personal samples and spirometry was performed. Multiple linear regression analyzed associations with FEV 1 %pred and FVC%pred. RESULTS Wood pellet workers with high exposure to inhalable dust had lower FEV 1 %pred (95% CI) (-9.4 [-16 to -2.6]) and FVC%pred (-9.8 [-15 to -4.0]) compared with lowest exposure level. Workers at paper mills and foundries had no dose-dependent association but lower FEV 1 %pred and FVC%pred than in workers at wood pellets plants. CONCLUSIONS Increased exposure to inhalable wood dust is associated with decreased lung function. Foundry and paper mill workers have generally lower lung function than wood pellet workers. Spirometry should be considered in workers in industries with airborne particulate matter pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes James Saers
- From the School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden (J.S.); Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden (I.-L.B.); Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden (J.S.); Department of Medical Sciences, Respiratory, Allergy & Sleep Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden (C.J.); and Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden (L.A.)
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21
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Mitchell J, Hwang J, Larson P, Mandal S, Agnew RJ. Preliminary analyses of accumulation of carcinogenic contaminants on retired firefighter ensembles. J Occup Environ Hyg 2024; 21:213-219. [PMID: 38416517 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2023.2296628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to protect firefighters from hazards encountered on the fire scene, including heat and products of combustion. Decontamination practices for firefighter turnout gear have been developed to remove combustion products and other contaminants from the fabric of structural firefighting ensembles (i.e., turnout or bunker gear). Chronic exposures to residual polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are a contributing cause of firefighter cancers. To identify and quantify residual contamination of PAH, samples were taken from two individual decommissioned structural firefighting ensembles and analyzed by layer (outer canvas shell, moisture barrier, and the thermal protective liner) for (1) textile integrity via field emission scanning electron microscopy and (2) quantity of PAH contamination by high-pressure liquid chromatography with ultraviolet/fluorescence detection. The results of these analyses show the presence of the PAH compounds pyrene (35% of the total mass of PAH), phenanthrene (21%), benzo(a)pyrene (14%), and benzo(a)anthracene (14%) which present a risk for dermal absorption. The data also revealed that PAH penetration through the layers of the firefighting ensemble was strongly inhibited by the moisture barrier layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake Mitchell
- Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology Program, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Jooyeon Hwang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Preston Larson
- Samuel Roberts Nobel Microscopy Laboratory, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Sumit Mandal
- Department of Design, Housing, and Merchandising, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
| | - Robert J Agnew
- Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology Program, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
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22
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Jiang Z, Schenk L, Assarsson E, Albin M, Bertilsson H, Dock E, Hagberg J, Karlsson LE, Kines P, Krais AM, Ljunggren S, Lundh T, Modig L, Möller R, Pineda D, Ricklund N, Saber AT, Storsjö T, Amir ET, Tinnerberg H, Tondel M, Vogel U, Wiebert P, Broberg K, Engfeldt M. Hexavalent chromium still a concern in Sweden - Evidence from a cross-sectional study within the SafeChrom project. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 256:114298. [PMID: 38056371 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is classified as a human carcinogen. Occupational Cr(VI) exposure can occur during different work processes, but the current exposure to Cr(VI) at Swedish workplaces is unknown. METHODS This cross-sectional study (SafeChrom) recruited non-smoking men and women from 14 companies with potential Cr(VI) exposure (n = 113) and controls from 6 companies without Cr(VI) exposure (n = 72). Inhalable Cr(VI) was measured by personal air sampling (outside of respiratory protection) in exposed workers. Total Cr was measured in urine (pre- and post-shift, density-adjusted) and red blood cells (RBC) (reflecting Cr(VI)) in exposed workers and controls. The Bayesian tool Expostats was used to assess risk and evaluate occupational exposure limit (OEL) compliance. RESULTS The exposed workers performed processing of metal products, steel production, welding, plating, and various chemical processes. The geometric mean concentration of inhalable Cr(VI) in exposed workers was 0.15 μg/m3 (95% confidence interval: 0.11-0.21). Eight of the 113 exposed workers (7%) exceeded the Swedish OEL of 5 μg/m3, and the Bayesian analysis estimated the share of OEL exceedances up to 19.6% for stainless steel welders. Median post-shift urinary (0.60 μg/L, 5th-95th percentile 0.10-3.20) and RBC concentrations (0.73 μg/L, 0.51-2.33) of Cr were significantly higher in the exposed group compared with the controls (urinary 0.10 μg/L, 0.06-0.56 and RBC 0.53 μg/L, 0.42-0.72). Inhalable Cr(VI) correlated with urinary Cr (rS = 0.64) and RBC-Cr (rS = 0.53). Workers within steel production showed the highest concentrations of inhalable, urinary and RBC Cr. Workers with inferred non-acceptable local exhaustion ventilation showed significantly higher inhalable Cr(VI), urinary and RBC Cr concentrations compared with those with inferred acceptable ventilation. Furthermore, workers with inferred correct use of respiratory protection were exposed to significantly higher concentrations of Cr(VI) in air and had higher levels of Cr in urine and RBC than those assessed with incorrect or no use. Based on the Swedish job-exposure-matrix, approximately 17 900 workers were estimated to be occupationally exposed to Cr(VI) today. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that some workers in Sweden are exposed to high levels of the non-threshold carcinogen Cr(VI). Employers and workers seem aware of Cr(VI) exposure, but more efficient exposure control strategies are required. National strategies aligned with the European strategies are needed in order to eliminate this cause of occupational cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheshun Jiang
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Linda Schenk
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Assarsson
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Maria Albin
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helen Bertilsson
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Sustainable Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Eva Dock
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jessika Hagberg
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Faculty of Business, Science and Engineering, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Lovisa E Karlsson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, Region Örebro County, Sweden
| | - Pete Kines
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Annette M Krais
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Stefan Ljunggren
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine Center in Linköping, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Thomas Lundh
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lars Modig
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Sustainable Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Rickie Möller
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Daniela Pineda
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Niklas Ricklund
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Örebro University Hospital, Region Örebro County, Sweden
| | - Anne T Saber
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tobias Storsjö
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Evana Taher Amir
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Håkan Tinnerberg
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Martin Tondel
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ulla Vogel
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pernilla Wiebert
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Broberg
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Malin Engfeldt
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Region Skåne, Lund, Sweden
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Pourhassan B, Beigzadeh Z, Nasirzadeh N, Karimi A. Application of Multiple Occupational Health Risk Assessment Models for Metal Fumes in Welding Process. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:811-823. [PMID: 37347403 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03717-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Welding fumes have an important role to create the adverse health effects. So, the aim of this study was to use of multiple occupational health risk assessment models for metal fumes in welding process. This cross-sectional study was conducted among welding workers. Sampling of heavy metals such as Sn, Zn, Al, Fe, Cd, Pb, Cu, Mn, Ni, Cr, and As was provided based on the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) method 7300 and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS). Risk assessment was managed by four methods including Malaysia's method, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Essentials (COSHH model), Chinese OHRA standard (GBZ/T 298-2017), and EPA method. Also, Monte Carlo simulation was used to examine the uncertainties by using the Crystal Ball tool. To compare the models, the risk levels of each model were converted into the risk ratio and the SPSS 22.0 software was used to the statistical analysis. The consistency of the two occupational health risk assessment models was examined by Cohen's Kappa. Risk ration was the highest level for Cr (VI) fumes in all models. Also, carcinogenic risk was unacceptable for all examined fumes. Moreover, non-carcinogenic risk was the highest (HI > 1) for As fumes. Mont Carlo simulations suggested that exposure time (ET) had a significant effect on the risk. Also, there was a good consistency between Malaysia method/GBZ/T 298-2017 and COSHH model/GBZ/T 298-2017. Therefore, it is recommended that the engineering and administrative controls should be provided to reduce exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahman Pourhassan
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Beigzadeh
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nafiseh Nasirzadeh
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ali Karimi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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24
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Beard JD, Collingwood SC, LeCheminant JD, Peterson NE, Reynolds PR, Arroyo JA, South AJ, Farnsworth CB, Fong G, Cisneros T, Taylor M, Sanjel S, Johnston JD. Respirable dust and crystalline silica concentrations among workers at a brick kiln in Bhaktapur, Nepal. J Occup Environ Hyg 2024; 21:247-258. [PMID: 38451548 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2024.2311873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to respirable dust and crystalline silica (SiO2) has been linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, silicosis, cancer, heart disease, and other respiratory diseases. Relatively few studies have measured respirable dust and SiO2 concentrations among workers at brick kilns in low- and middle-income countries. The purpose of this study was to measure personal breathing zone (PBZ) respirable dust and SiO2 concentrations among workers at one brick kiln in Bhaktapur, Nepal. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 49 workers in five job categories: administration, fire master, green (unfired) brick hand molder, green brick machine molder, and top loader. PBZ air samples were collected from each worker following Methods 0600 (respirable dust) and 7500 (respirable crystalline SiO2: cristobalite, quartz, tridymite) of the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Eight-hour time-weighted average (TWA) respirable dust and quartz concentrations were also calculated. SiO2 percentage was measured in one bulk sample each of wet clay, the release agent used by green brick hand molders, and top coat soil at the brick kiln. The geometric mean (GM) sample and TWA respirable dust concentrations were 0.20 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.16, 0.27) and 0.12 (95% CI: 0.09, 0.16) mg/m3, respectively. GM sample and TWA quartz concentrations were 15.28 (95% CI: 11.11, 21.02) and 8.60 (95% CI: 5.99, 12.34) µg/m3, respectively. Job category was significantly associated with GM sample and TWA respirable dust and quartz concentrations (all p < 0.0001). Top loaders had the highest GM sample and TWA respirable dust concentrations of 1.49 and 0.99 mg/m3, respectively. Top loaders also had the highest GM sample and TWA quartz concentrations of 173.08 and 114.39 µg/m3, respectively. Quartz percentages in bulk samples were 16%-27%. Interventions including using wet methods to reduce dust generation, administrative controls, personal protective equipment, and education and training should be implemented to reduce brick kiln worker exposures to respirable dust and SiO2.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Beard
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Scott C Collingwood
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - James D LeCheminant
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | | | - Paul R Reynolds
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Juan A Arroyo
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Andrew J South
- Department of Civil and Construction Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Clifton B Farnsworth
- Department of Civil and Construction Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Gerardo Fong
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Taylor Cisneros
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Mariah Taylor
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Seshananda Sanjel
- Department of Community Medicine and Public Health, Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Jumla, Nepal
| | - James D Johnston
- Department of Public Health, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
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25
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Li WJ, Zhu QH. [Comparison and analysis research on occupational exposure limits of coal dust between China and foreign countries]. Zhonghua Lao Dong Wei Sheng Zhi Ye Bing Za Zhi 2024; 42:107-111. [PMID: 38403418 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn121094-20230829-00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To study and compare the occupational exposure limits (OELs) of coal dust between China and foreign countries, understand the OEL of coal dust in China, and provide data and basis for revising the OEL of coal dust in China. Methods: In August 2023, by searching the official websites of limits setting institutions in relevant countries and regions at home and abroad, collecting and sorting out the OELs of coal dust issued by 10 limit setting institutions in 6 countries and the background information of the formulation, and conducting specific analysis on the classification, limit level and formulation principles of coal dust OEL in each country/institution. Results: In China and Japan, the total dust and respirable dust of coal dust OEL were established respectively, while in other countries, only the time-weighted average concentration (TWA) of respirable coal dust exposure was established. The TWA prescribed by China's Notional Health Commission, the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) , the United States Mining Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and the Australian Safety Work Bureau when the SiO(2) content was less than 5% were 5, 2.4, 2 and 3 mg/m(3) respectively. China GBZ 2.1-2019 sets the limit of 2.5 mg/m(3) for respirable coal dust with SiO(2) content less than 10%. The TWA set by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) and the South African Department of Mines and Energy (DME) for anthracite coal were 0.4 and 0.8 mg/m(3), respectively, and bituminous coal or lignite were 0.9 and 1.8 mg/m(3), respectively. The respirable coal dust TWA set by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in the United States was 1 mg/m(3), and the TWA set by the New Zealand Work Safety Authority was 3 mg/m(3). Conclusion: At present, the OEL of coal dust in China is at a relatively loose level, and it is suggested to further explore the possibility of revising coal dust OEL.
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Affiliation(s)
- W J Li
- National Institute for Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Q H Zhu
- National Institute for Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China
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26
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Weller M, Clemence D, Lau A, Rawlings M, Robertson A, Sankaran B. An assessment of worker exposure to respirable dust and crystalline silica in workshops fabricating engineered stone. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:170-179. [PMID: 38096573 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxad072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a significant silicosis risk for workers fabricating engineered stone (ES) products containing crystalline silica. The aims of this study by SafeWork NSW were to: (i) assess current worker exposure to respirable dust (RD) and respirable crystalline silica (RCS) following a 5-y awareness and compliance program of inspections in ES workshops and (ii) to identify improvements in work practices from the available evidence base to further reduce exposures. One hundred and twenty-three personal full shift samples taken on as many workers and 34 static samples across 27 workshops fabricating ES were included in the final assessment. The exposure assessment was conducted using Casella Higgins-Dewell cyclones (Casella TSI) placed in the breathing zone of workers attached to SKC Air Check XR 5000 or SKC Chek TOUCH sampling pumps. Sample filters were sent to an ISO (2017) 17025:2017 accredited laboratory for gravimetric analysis for RD and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis to determine the amount of deposited RCS i.e. alpha-quartz and cristobalite. All workshops used wet methods of fabrication. The geometric mean (GM) of the pooled result for respirable dust (RD) was 0.09 mg/m3 TWA-8 h and 0.034 mg/m3 TWA-8 h for RCS. The highest exposed workers with a GM RCS of 0.062 mg/m3 TWA-8 h were those using pneumatic hand tools for cutting or grinding combined with polishing tasks. Workers operating semiautomated routers and edge polishers had the lowest GM RCS exposures of 0.022 mg/m3 TWA-8 h and 0.018 mg/m3 TWA-8 h respectively. Although ES workers remain exposed to RCS above the workplace exposure limit (WEL) of 0.05 mg/m 3 TWA-8 h, these results point to a very substantial reduction in exposures compared to poorly controlled dry methods of fabrication. Therefore, the wearing of respiratory protection by workers remains necessary until further control measures are more widely adopted across the entire industry e.g. reduction in the crystalline silica content of ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Weller
- Hygiene and Toxicology; (Chemicals, Explosives and Safety Auditing Directorate) SafeWork New South Wales, Parramatta 2150, Australia
| | - Dennis Clemence
- Hygiene and Toxicology; (Chemicals, Explosives and Safety Auditing Directorate) SafeWork New South Wales, Parramatta 2150, Australia
| | - Abe Lau
- Hygiene and Toxicology; (Chemicals, Explosives and Safety Auditing Directorate) SafeWork New South Wales, Parramatta 2150, Australia
| | - Mark Rawlings
- Hygiene and Toxicology; (Chemicals, Explosives and Safety Auditing Directorate) SafeWork New South Wales, Parramatta 2150, Australia
| | - Amy Robertson
- Hygiene and Toxicology; (Chemicals, Explosives and Safety Auditing Directorate) SafeWork New South Wales, Parramatta 2150, Australia
| | - Bhoopathy Sankaran
- Hygiene and Toxicology; (Chemicals, Explosives and Safety Auditing Directorate) SafeWork New South Wales, Parramatta 2150, Australia
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27
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Ye HP, Fu H, Shao J, Shan XY, Zhang L, Zhang L. [The method of determination for 2, 3-Butanedione in the air of workplace by high performance liquid chromatography with derivatization]. Zhonghua Lao Dong Wei Sheng Zhi Ye Bing Za Zhi 2024; 42:129-132. [PMID: 38403422 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn121094-20221201-00574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To establish a method for the determination of 2, 3-Butanedione (BUT) in the air of workplace, which including the process of collection by absorption in phosphoric acid aqueous solution and the process of analysis and detection by high performance liquid chromatography with derivatization. Methods: In October 2022, a porous glass plate absorption tube containing 10 ml of 0.01% phosphoric acid solution was used to collect BUT in the air of the workplace at a flow rate of 0.2 L/min. The absorption solution was derived by 2, 4-dinitrophenylhydrazine for 75 min and separated on a SB-C18 column (250 mm×4.6 mm, 5 μm) . At the column temperature of 30 ℃, the mixture of acetonitrile-water (V∶V, 1∶1) was eluted at the flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. It was detected by UV detector (λ=365 nm) , qualitatived by retention time and quantitatived by external standard. Results: It showed that BUT in phosphoric acid aqueous solution could be stored for at least 7 d at 4 ℃. There was a linear relationship within the determination range of 0.05-6.00 μg/ml, the linear regression equation was y=89.610x+0.133, r=0.9999. The sampling absorption efficiencies were 98.33%-100.00%, the detection limit of the method was 0.005 μg/ml, the minimum detection concentration was 0.016 mg/m(3) (based on V(0)=3.0 L) . The recovery rates were 95.96%-102.44%, the intra batch precision were 4.36%-7.78%, and the inter batch precision were 4.96%-6.06%. Conclusion: The method has the advantages of simple operation, high sensitivity and good accuracy. It can prevent the loss and degradation of BUT. It can be used for the determination of BUT in the air of workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- H P Ye
- Health Testing Department, Hangzhou Occupational Disease Prevention and Control Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - H Fu
- Health Testing Department, Hangzhou Occupational Disease Prevention and Control Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - J Shao
- Health Testing Department, Hangzhou Occupational Disease Prevention and Control Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - X Y Shan
- Health Testing Department, Hangzhou Occupational Disease Prevention and Control Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - L Zhang
- Health Testing Department, Hangzhou Occupational Disease Prevention and Control Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - L Zhang
- Health Testing Department, Hangzhou Occupational Disease Prevention and Control Hospital, Hangzhou 310014, China
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Huang R, Chen W, Tao Y, Yuan S, Geng F, Li S. Influence of environmental parameters on workers' dust inhalation in underground mines. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2024; 31:8963-8973. [PMID: 38182960 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31800-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Much dust is generated in underground coal mining processes, posing threats to workers' health and safety production. Dust enters the human body mainly through inhalation, primarily determined by the dust concentration around workers. In this study, the airflow field and dust distribution in the tunnel are simulated with FLUENT software. The breathing zone for a worker was defined to clarify the extent of external dust distribution influencing dust inhalation. The effects of human respiration, dust production rates, air supply velocities, and workers' positions on dust concentration in the breathing zone were investigated. The results show that there is upward airflow around the worker standing in the center of the air circulation. Human breath barely influences the airflow distribution and respirable dust concentrations in the breathing zone. Reducing the dust production rate in the tunnel can decrease the respirable dust concentration in the breathing zone by almost the same proportion. While increasing the air supply velocity by 50% would reduce only 20% of dust in the breathing zone. The dust concentrations vary along the roadway, in which the low concentration zone is located in the middle, more than 1.0 m away from the dust-producing surface and the wind surface. The research contributes to reducing workers' dust exposure with suggestions regarding ventilation optimization and working position selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongting Huang
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of Dust Control and Occupational Protection, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China.
| | - Wanyi Chen
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of Dust Control and Occupational Protection, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
| | - Yichun Tao
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of Dust Control and Occupational Protection, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
| | - Shilong Yuan
- School of Low-Carbon Energy and Power Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
| | - Fan Geng
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of Dust Control and Occupational Protection, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
- School of Low-Carbon Energy and Power Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
| | - Shihang Li
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of Dust Control and Occupational Protection, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Coal‑Based Greenhouse Gas Control and Utilization, Carbon Neutrality Institute, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, 221116, China
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29
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Sifanu M, Kalebaila KK, Hayumbu P, Nabiwa L, Linde SJL. Analysis of respirable dust exposure data collected at a Zambian copper mine between 2017 and 2022. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1288485. [PMID: 38356653 PMCID: PMC10864506 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1288485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Mine workers are occupationally exposed to respirable dust, which can cause irreversible lung diseases and controlling exposure concentrations to as low as reasonably practicable is, therefore, essential. To implement exposure reduction strategies and adequately manage exposure to hazardous chemicals, exposure needs to be measured and recorded according to a standard exposure management plan. This study aimed to assess the available respirable dust exposure data measured between 2017 and 2022 in various work areas and job categories at two mining shafts and a concentrator plant of a Zambian copper mine. Additionally, the monitoring program implemented at the mine was assessed for appropriateness. Descriptive data analysis was used to create an exposure matrix comprising 253 exposure measurements. Approximately 5.6% of the measured concentrations exceeded the South African time-weighted average occupational exposure limit (TWA-OEL) of 3 mg/m3. The geometric means of respirable dust exposure for shaft A, shaft B and the concentrator plant were 0.44 mg/m3, 0.44 mg/m3, and 0.68 mg/m3, respectively. The work areas with the highest maximum exposure results were the tipping area (18.0 mg/m3) at shaft A, the sump and waste bin (8.05 mg/m3) at shaft B and the screening (10.8 mg/m3), secondary crusher (14.0 mg/m3), foreign ore bin (4.43 mg/m3), and tertiary crusher (5.07 mg/m3) areas at the concentrator plant. It was found that the monitoring strategy implemented at the mine was flawed and did not collect a sufficient number of samples in each area during each year to make rigorous statistical assessment possible. This study highlights the sampling strategy's shortcomings and recommends adopting a standardized monitoring strategy, such as EN689, to improve the respirable dust monitoring program at the mine. Additionally, this strategy can be implemented across Zambia and, if implemented correctly, it has the potential to be improve exposure monitoring across the country as no standard sampling strategy is currently enforced by the Government.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mwaba Sifanu
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Kennedy K. Kalebaila
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Patrick Hayumbu
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Lubinda Nabiwa
- School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Stephanus J. L. Linde
- Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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30
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Teixeira J, Bessa MJ, Delerue-Matos C, Sarmento B, Santos-Silva A, Rodrigues F, Oliveira M. Firefighters' personal exposure to gaseous PAHs during controlled forest fires: A case study with estimation of respiratory health risks and in vitro toxicity. Sci Total Environ 2024; 908:168364. [PMID: 37963534 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are daily exposed to adverse health-hazardous pollutants. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), well known endocrine disruptors with carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic properties, are among the most relevant pollutants. The characterization of firefighters' occupational exposure to airborne PAHs remains limited; information is scarce for European firefighters. Also, the in vitro assessment of firefighters' respiratory health risks is inexistent. To reply to these scientific gaps, this work characterizes the levels of gaseous PAH in firefighters' personal air during regular working activities at controlled forest fires and at fire stations (control group). Breathable levels were 2.2-26.7 times higher during fire events than in the control group (2.63-32.63 μg/m3versus 1.22 μg/m3, p < 0.001); the available occupational guidelines (100 and 200 μg/m3 defined by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the North American Occupational Safety and Health Administration, respectively) were not exceeded. Concentrations of (possible/probable) carcinogenic PAHs were 1.9-15.3 times superior during firefighting (p < 0.001). Increased values of total benzo(a)pyrene equivalents (p = 0.101), dose rates (p < 0.001), and carcinogenic risks (p = 0.063) were estimated in firefighters during controlled fires comparatively with the control group. Firefighters' breathable gaseous phase collected during fire events contributed to induce a significant viability decrease (<70 %; p < 0.05) in A549 and Calu-3 cell lines. The principal component analysis (PCA) allowed the differentiation between firefighters participating in controlled fire events from the control group. PCA analysis demonstrated the potential of PAHs to distinguish different sources of firefighters´ occupational exposure and of combining estimated health risk parameters with in vitro toxicities determined with human-breathable air collected during real-life scenarios. Overall, the participation in controlled fire events contributes to the respiratory health burden of firefighting forces. However, more studies are needed to corroborate these preliminary findings, explore the respiratory toxicological mechanisms, and support the implementation of preventive actions and mitigation strategies to pursue firefighters' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Teixeira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal; REQUIMTE/UCIBIO, Unidade de Ciências Biomoleculares Aplicadas, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Bessa
- UNIPRO - Unidade de Investigação em Patologia e Reabilitação Oral, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- UNIPRO - Unidade de Investigação em Patologia e Reabilitação Oral, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; I3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alice Santos-Silva
- REQUIMTE/UCIBIO, Unidade de Ciências Biomoleculares Aplicadas, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório Associado i4HB, Instituto para a Saúde e a Bioeconomia, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisca Rodrigues
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal.
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31
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Daae HL, Graff P, Foss OAH, Kofoed VC, Afanou AK, Frederiksen MW, Madsen AM. A cross-sectional study on occupational exposure to microorganisms, endotoxin, hydrogen sulfide, and dust during work at drilling waste treatment plants. Ann Work Expo Health 2024; 68:58-77. [PMID: 37995292 PMCID: PMC10773208 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxad069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study aims to obtain knowledge about workers' exposure to airborne dust, bacterial and fungal species, endotoxin, biofilm formation, and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in drilling waste treatment plants. In total, 408 full-shift personal samples, 66 work areas, 40 drilling waste, and reference (outdoor air and seawater) samples were analyzed. Some workers were exposed to high levels of endotoxin (207 EU/m3), bacteria (3.8 × 104 colony forming units (CFU)/m3 and 9.8 × 104 DNA copies/m3), or fungi (1.4 × 107 CFU/m3 and 3,600 copies/m3). The exposure levels to endotoxin, bacteria, and peaks of H2S were dependent on the treatment technique. All types of drilling waste contained large concentrations of bacteria compared to the seawater references. Elevated concentrations of airborne bacteria were found close to drilling waste basins. In total, 116, 146, and 112 different bacterial species were found in workers' exposure, work areas, and the drilling waste, respectively. An overlap in bacterial species found in the drilling waste and air (personal and work area) samples was found. Of the bacterial species found, 49 are classified as human pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, and Klebsiella oxytoca. In total, 44 fungal species were found in the working environment, and 6 of these are classified as human pathogens such as Aspergillus fumigatus. In conclusion, across the drilling waste treatment plants, human pathogens were present in the drilling waste, and workers' exposure was affected by the drilling waste treated at the plants with elevated exposure to endotoxin and bacteria. Elevated exposure was related to working as apprentices or chemical engineers, and working with cleaning, or slop water, and working in the daytime.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Line Daae
- National Institute of Occupational Health (STAMI), Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Gydas vei 8, Majorstuen, 0363 Oslo, Norway
| | - Pål Graff
- National Institute of Occupational Health (STAMI), Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Gydas vei 8, Majorstuen, 0363 Oslo, Norway
| | - Oda Astrid Haarr Foss
- National Institute of Occupational Health (STAMI), Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Gydas vei 8, Majorstuen, 0363 Oslo, Norway
| | - Victor Carp Kofoed
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Department of Chemistry and Microbiology, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Anani Komlavi Afanou
- National Institute of Occupational Health (STAMI), Department of Chemistry and Toxicology, Gydas vei 8, Majorstuen, 0363 Oslo, Norway
| | - Margit Wagtberg Frederiksen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Department of Chemistry and Microbiology, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Anne Mette Madsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Department of Chemistry and Microbiology, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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32
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Ribalta C, Jensen ACØ, Shandilya N, Delpivo C, Jensen KA, Fonseca AS. Use of the dustiness index in combination with the handling energy factor for exposure modelling of nanomaterials. NanoImpact 2024; 33:100493. [PMID: 38219948 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2024.100493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The use of modelling tools in the occupational hygiene community has increased in the last years to comply with the different existing regulations. However, limitations still exist mainly due to the difficulty to obtain certain key parameters such as the emission rate, which in the case of powder handling can be estimated using the dustiness index (DI). The goal of this work is to explore the applicability and usability of the DI for emission source characterization and occupational exposure prediction to particles during nanomaterial powder handling. Modelling of occupational exposure concentrations of 13 case scenarios was performed using a two-box model as well as three nano-specific tools (Stoffenmanager nano, NanoSafer and GUIDEnano). The improvement of modelling performance by using a derived handling energy factor (H) was explored. Results show the usability of the DI for emission source characterization and respirable mass exposure modelling of powder handling scenarios of nanomaterials. A clear improvement in modelling outcome was obtained when using derived quartile-3 H factors with, 1) Pearson correlations of 0.88 vs. 0.52 (not using H), and 2) ratio of modelled/measured concentrations ranging from 0.9 to 10 in 75% cases vs. 16.7% of the cases when not using H. Particle number concentrations were generally underpredicted. Using the most conservative H values, predictions with ratios modelled/measured concentrations of 0.4-3.6 were obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Ribalta
- The National Research Center for Work Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark; Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA), 10317 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Alexander C Ø Jensen
- The National Research Center for Work Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Camilla Delpivo
- LEITAT Technological Centre, C/ de Pallars, 179 - 185, 08005 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Keld A Jensen
- The National Research Center for Work Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Ana Sofia Fonseca
- The National Research Center for Work Environment (NRCWE), Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Freire de Carvalho M, Kliebert J, Urbanus J. Levels and control of welding fume exposure to total particulate, hexavalent chromium, and manganese in contracted activities in an oil refinery setting (2008-2018). J Occup Environ Hyg 2024; 21:35-46. [PMID: 37773093 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2023.2264350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
In response to increasing focus on occupational exposures to welding fume, a 10-year series of personal exposure measurements was analyzed for the two main welding processes (Shielded Metal Arc Welding or Stick and Tungsten Inert Gas welding or TIG) used in an oil refinery setting. Exposures from ancillary gouging and grinding were also analyzed. The operations were conducted under a permit-to-work system, which stipulated control measures in the form of ventilation and respiratory protective equipment (RPE) depending on the work environment, base metal, and welding process. The analysis focused on three health hazards of interest: total particulate (TP); hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)); and manganese (Mn). The study's aims were the analysis of exposure levels related to operational conditions to verify the adequacy of required control measures and the generation of quantitative information for the development of predictive exposure models. Arithmetic mean exposures were 2.01 mg/m3 for TP (n = 94), 13.86 µg/m3 for Cr (VI) (n = 160), and 0.024 mg/m3 for Mn (n = 95). Requirements and practices for ventilation and use of RPE appeared adequate for maintaining exposure levels below maximum use concentrations. Predictive models for mean exposure levels were developed using multiple linear regression. Different patterns emerged for TP, Cr (VI), and Mn exposure determinants. Enclosed or confined work environments were associated with elevated exposure levels, regardless of the provision of local exhaust or general dilution ventilation. Carbon arc, used with gouging and grinding, contributed significantly to TP exposure (p = 0.006). The relative TP source strengths of the two main welding processes were comparable to the literature data. For Cr (VI), stick welding was associated with approximately 50-fold (p < 0.001) higher exposure potential than TIG welding. For Mn, this difference was approximately 2.5-fold. Differences were observed across the three analytes in exposure reduction efficiency of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) compared to natural ventilation, possibly due to ineffective use in confined spaces. These findings contribute to the overall understanding of TP, Cr (VI), and Mn exposures from welding and required controls in an oil refinery setting.
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Chan W, Li G, Zhou L, Wang J, Song L, Zhu L, Lin L, Wu B, Xiao J, Lian Y. Relationship between exposure to metalworking fluids and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2024; 97:57-64. [PMID: 38070038 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-023-02025-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The relationship between metalworking fluids (MWFs) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been previously explored. We aim to investigate the relationship between occupational exposure to MWFs and the prevalence of NAFLD and to determine the cumulative exposure threshold per day. METHODS In 2020, 2079 employees were selected randomly from one computer numerical control machining factory in Wuxi for a questionnaire survey, and occupational health examinations were conducted at the affiliated branch of Wuxi Eighth People's Hospital. MWF samples were collected within the factory using the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) 5524 method. NAFLD was defined as having a hepatic steatosis index (HSI) ≥ 36 without significant alcohol consumption. The relationship between NAFLD and MWFs was analyzed using logistic regression, and the daily exposure threshold was calculated using R software. RESULTS MWF exposure was found to be a risk factor for NAFLD in exposed workers compared to the non-exposed group. The OR for NAFLD in workers exposed to MWFs compared to controls was 1.42 (95% CI: 1.04-1.95). An increased risk of NAFLD was shown to be associated with an increasing dose. The daily exposure dose threshold to MWFs was found to be 6.54 mg/m3 (OR = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.24-3.52). CONCLUSION An association between occupational exposure to MWFs and NAFLD was found. As the concentration of exposure rose, the prevalence of NAFLD was also escalated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiling Chan
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Geyang Li
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Zhou
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Song
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lejia Zhu
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lan Lin
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Beining Wu
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Xiao
- Department of Occupational Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yulong Lian
- Division of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Se Yuan Road, No. 9, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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Bralewska K. Air pollution inside fire stations: State-of-the-art and future challenges. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 255:114289. [PMID: 37976582 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are frequently exposed to products of combustion and pyrolysis. Exposure to these substances occurs not only during fires but also at fire stations, particularly where fire equipment and fire uniforms are stored after firefighting operations. The aims of this study were to review the research on the concentrations of various air pollutants in fire stations, identify the limitations and strengths of such research, identify research gaps and related future challenges, and highlight potential solutions for reducing firefighter exposure to air pollution at fire stations. A total of 32 articles published in international journals during 1987-2023 were selected for analysis. The most frequently studied pollutants in fire stations were polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, particulate matter, and diesel particulate matter. Research was most often conducted on changing rooms and garages. Firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, fire trucks, and combustion tools were identified as the main sources of pollution at fire stations. Recommendations aimed at reducing the concentration of pollutants in fire stations were mainly concerned with the systematic decontamination of equipment and the introduction of ventilation solutions that would remove exhaust fumes from garages. This in-depth literature review indicates a lack of comprehensive research on the state and quality of air at fire stations. It also highlights the emerging need for more knowledge on the concentrations of air pollutants in fire stations, health exposure related to these substances, and an analysis of the effectiveness of the proposed solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Bralewska
- Institute of Safety Engineering, Fire University (formerly Main School of Fire Service), 52/54 Slowackiego Street, Warsaw, 01-629, Poland.
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Górny RL, Cyprowski M, Gołofit-Szymczak M, Ławniczek-Wałczyk A, Stobnicka-Kupiec A, Wolska L. Production of pro-inflammatory mediators stimulated by exposure of poultry house workers to airborne dust particulates. Ann Agric Environ Med 2023; 30:623-633. [PMID: 38153064 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/174201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE Poultry house employees spend a significant part of their work shift being exposed to airborne particulate pollutants. The aim of this study was to assess their exposure at different stages of chicken production cycle, based on quantification of pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα) in nasal lavage (NAL) samples. MATERIAL AND METHODS The concentrations of airborne dust at 3 different stages of the production cycle (i.e. empty poultry house, with 7- and 42-day-old chickens) were stationary measured using Grimm spectrometer, as well as CIS and Button samplers. The dust collected by the latter 2 samplers was analyzed for endotoxin and (1→3)-β-D-glucan content. NAL samples were collected from employees after their work shift to determine the pro-inflammatory mediator levels. RESULTS The maximum particulate aerosol, endotoxin, and (1→3)-β-D-glucan concentrations at workplaces reached the levels of 4.12 mg/m3, 45.21 ng/m3, and 56.54 ng/m3, respectively. The IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 concentrations in NAL samples ranged between 0.62-18.12 pg/mL, <0.70-25.37 pg/mL, and <3.50-259.5 pg/mL, respectively. All TNFα levels were below 4 pg/mL. There were no significant differences between these cytokine concentrations in NAL samples collected at different stages of chicken breeding in either 'winter' or 'summer' seasons. CONCLUSIONS Inhalation stimulation with poultry dust containing endotoxins and (1→3)-β-D-glucans resulted in the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, which proves the course of immunological processes in the exposed employees that may lead to adverse effects. The use of nasal lavage fluid in the control of such exposure confirms that NAL analysis is a reliable laboratory tool for assessing the impact of poultry dust on exposed farm workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał L Górny
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Cyprowski
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Anna Ławniczek-Wałczyk
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agata Stobnicka-Kupiec
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute (CIOP-PIB), Warsaw, Poland
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Abaya SW, Bråtveit M, Kumie A, Deressa W, Moen BE. Bacterial contamination of coffee and personal exposure to inhalable dust and endotoxin in primary coffee processing factories in Ethiopia. Ann Agric Environ Med 2023; 30:611-616. [PMID: 38153062 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/173222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE Endotoxins from gram-negative bacteria might be released when the coffee cherries are processed and may cause respiratory health problems among workers in the coffee industry. The relationship between bacterial contamination and occupational exposure to endotoxin levels has not been thoroughly explored previously in primary coffee processing factories in Ethiopia, or elsewhere. The aim of this study was to characterize the level of personal endotoxin exposure and its relations with bacterial contamination of coffee cherries in such factories in Ethiopia. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2020 - February 2021 in 9 primary coffee processing factories in 3 regions in Ethiopia. A total of 180 personal air samples were collected to analyze workers' exposure to inhalable dust and endotoxin. Correlation tests were performed to assess the relationship between total bacteria and endotoxin levels and between inhalable dust and endotoxin levels. RESULTS The geometric mean (GM) of personal inhalable dust exposure among machine room workers and hand pickers were 9.58 mg/m3 and 2.56 mg/m3, respectively. The overall GM of endotoxin exposure among machine room workers and hand pickers were 10,198 EU/m3 and 780 EU/m3, respectively. Gram-negative bacteria were found in all 54 coffee samples. The correlation between inhalable dust and endotoxin exposure was significant (r=0.80; P <0.01). CONCLUSIONS About 92% of the samples from hand pickers and all samples from machine room workers exceeded the occupational exposure limit of 90 EU/m3 recommended by the Dutch Expert Committee on Occupational Standards. Prevention and control of bacterial contamination of the coffee in primary coffee processing are suggested to reduce endotoxin exposure that might cause respiratory health problems among coffee workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samson Wakuma Abaya
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
| | - Magne Bråtveit
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Norway
| | - Abera Kumie
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
| | - Wakgari Deressa
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
| | - Bente Elisabeth Moen
- Centre for International Health, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Norway
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Okrasa M, Majchrzycka K, Szulc J, Pielech-Przybylska K. The efficiency of nuisance relief by filtering facepiece respirators used by workers exposed to agricultural odours. Med Pr 2023; 74:363-375. [PMID: 38104337 DOI: 10.13075/mp.5893.01441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) in reducing odour nuisances in agricultural work environment. Additionally, an assessment was conducted on the microbiological contamination of FFRs and the functionality of Time4Mask application in enhancing workplace safety. MATERIAL AND METHODS Two types of FFRs were used for the study: with absorbing properties and reference ones. The research was carried out in 6 livestock rooms during a 1-week period in early spring (February-March 2021) on a farm in central Poland. The microclimate conditions (thermoanemometer), and particulate matter concentrations (laser photometer) were assessed. Additionally, the odour content in the studied rooms and the breathing zone of FFR users (gas chromatography with mass spectrometry) were evaluated. The number of microorganisms on the respirators was determined (cultivation method), followed by their identification (biochemical tests, taxonomic keys). Breakthrough curves were determined for both FFR types to assess absorption capabilities. RESULTS The average temperature in the livestock rooms was about 13°C, relative humidity - 53%, air flow velocity - 0.21 m/s, and particulate matter concentration - 0.216 mg/m3. A significant variety of odorants was found in the environment and the breathing zone under the FFRs. Bacterial counts ranged between 2.4 × 101 and 2.6 × 102 CFU/cm2, fungi between 3.2 × 100 and 5.4 × 101 CFU/cm2, xerophilic fungi from 4.4 × 100 to 4.0 × 101 CFU/cm2, mannitol-positive staphylococci between 1.6 × 101 and 1.0 × 102 CFU/cm2, and haemolytic staphylococci from 2.2 × 101 to 4.5 × 101 CFU/cm2, depending on the respirator type. Respirators were colonized by bacteria from the genera: Bacillus, Staphylococcus, actinobacteria Streptomyces sp., and fungi: Candida, Absidia, Aspergillus, Mucor, and Penicillium. Respirators with absorbing properties had over 8-times longer breakthrough time than reference ones. CONCLUSIONS Respirators with activated carbon effectively improved work comfort when exposed to odours. Due to growth of microorganisms in the respirator materials, periodic replacement is necessary. It is crucial to provide workers with information about the safe-use time of respirators, considering environmental conditions. This is achievable using modern IT tools like Time4Mask application. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2023;76(5):363-75.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Okrasa
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Łódź, Poland (Department of Personal Protective Equipment)
| | - Katarzyna Majchrzycka
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Łódź, Poland (Department of Personal Protective Equipment)
| | - Justyna Szulc
- Lodz University of Technology, Łódź, Poland (Department of Environmental Biotechnology)
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Cortes JB, Sarazin P, Dieme D, Côté J, Ouellet C, El Majidi N, Bouchard M. Biomonitoring of exposure to multiple metal components in urine, hair and nails of apprentice welders performing shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). Environ Res 2023; 239:117361. [PMID: 37844685 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Welding fumes are associated with various diseases. Increased air levels of metals were reported during welding. However, few multielement biomonitoring studies were conducted to assess the actual dose of metal components absorbed in apprentice welders in a learning environment. This research aimed to establish the nature and level of exposure to welding fumes and their metallic components in apprentice welders performing 'Shielded Metal Arc Welding' (SMAW), based on multi-element and multi-matrix analyses. A total of 86 apprentice welders were recruited in three different schools in Montreal, Québec, Canada. Twenty-one elements were measured in urine, hair, fingernail, and toenail samples collected at the beginning of the program and at the end of SMAW practical training. Concentrations of welding fumes and 12 metals were also determined in personal respirable air samples collected over a typical workday in a subgroup of 19 apprentices. Levels of manganese (Mn), iron (Fe) and nickel (Ni) in urine and Mn in hair were higher in samples taken at the end of the SMAW module compared to the beginning of training, while there was no significant difference for the other elements or for nail concentrations. Geometric mean concentrations [5th-95th percentiles] reached 0.31 [0.032-2.84], 9.4 [3.1-51] and 0.87 [0.35-3.1] μg/g creat. in post-shift urine, respectively, for Mn, Fe and Ni, and 0.37 [0.46-6.4] μg Mn/g hair at the end of SWAW. Median concentrations [5th-95th percentiles] were 29 [4.6-1200], 120 [27-3100] and 0.31 [
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Affiliation(s)
- Jairo Buitrago Cortes
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Chair in Toxicological Risk Assessment and Management, and Public Health Research Center (CReSP), University of Montreal, Roger-Gaudry Building, U436, P.O. Box 6128, Main Station, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Philippe Sarazin
- Chemical and Biological Hazards Prevention, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, 505 Boulevard de Maisonneuve O, Montréal, Québec, H3A 3C2, Canada
| | - Denis Dieme
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Chair in Toxicological Risk Assessment and Management, and Public Health Research Center (CReSP), University of Montreal, Roger-Gaudry Building, U436, P.O. Box 6128, Main Station, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Jonathan Côté
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Chair in Toxicological Risk Assessment and Management, and Public Health Research Center (CReSP), University of Montreal, Roger-Gaudry Building, U436, P.O. Box 6128, Main Station, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Capucine Ouellet
- Chemical and Biological Hazards Prevention, Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, 505 Boulevard de Maisonneuve O, Montréal, Québec, H3A 3C2, Canada
| | - Naïma El Majidi
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Chair in Toxicological Risk Assessment and Management, and Public Health Research Center (CReSP), University of Montreal, Roger-Gaudry Building, U436, P.O. Box 6128, Main Station, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Michèle Bouchard
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Chair in Toxicological Risk Assessment and Management, and Public Health Research Center (CReSP), University of Montreal, Roger-Gaudry Building, U436, P.O. Box 6128, Main Station, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3J7, Canada.
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Koslitz S, Heinrich B, Käfferlein HU, Koch HM, Pelzl T, Pitzke K, Köster D, Weiß T, Harth V, Brüning T, Behrens T, Taeger D. Biomonitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in firefighters at fire training facilities and in employees at respiratory protection and hose workshops. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1277812. [PMID: 38152667 PMCID: PMC10751366 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1277812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are carcinogenic to humans and are formed by incomplete combustion. PAHs are always present during firefighting operations, and fire department members can be exposed to them in the workplace. Methods In this study, we analyzed 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) in 36 urine samples from nine firefighters, collected before and after fire training sessions, and 32 urine samples from eight employees at respiratory protection and hose workshops. To assess breakthrough PAH exposure through personal protective equipment and potential dermal uptake, some of the workshop employees wore cotton garments under their regular workwear. Cotton samples were then examined for the presence of 17 semi-volatile and low-volatility PAHs. Results After firefighting exercises, we observed approximately a fivefold increase in mean 1-OHP concentrations in samples from firefighters, from 0.24 μg/L to 1.17 μg/L (maximum: 5.31 μg/L). In contrast, 1-OHP levels in workshop employees were found to be low, with the majority of urine samples yielding concentrations below the limit of quantification (LOQ: 0.05 μg/L, maximum: 0.11 μg/L). Similarly, low PAH levels were found on the workshop employees' cotton undergarments, with maximum concentrations of 250 and 205 ng/g for pyrene and benzo[a]pyrene, respectively. Discussion In conclusion, significant increases in 1-OHP in urine were observed in firefighters after training sessions, whereas work-related exposure remained low among workshop employees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Koslitz
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Birgit Heinrich
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Heiko U. Käfferlein
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Holger M. Koch
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Tim Pelzl
- Department of Fire Services, Rescue Services, and Fire Protection of the German Social Accident Insurance, German Social Accident Insurance Institution for the Public Sector in Baden-Württemberg, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Katrin Pitzke
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Daniel Köster
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Tobias Weiß
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Volker Harth
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Brüning
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Behrens
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Dirk Taeger
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
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Limsiriwong K, Winijkul E. Exploring Personal Exposure to Airborne Microplastics across Various Work Environments in Pathum Thani Province, Thailand. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:7162. [PMID: 38131714 PMCID: PMC10743124 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20247162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
This study used personal air samplers to assess the concentration of airborne microplastics exposed by different occupational groups during their working hours. The personal air sampler was placed in the "breathing zone" of the worker during working hours to collect microplastic exposure data. Occupations examined included housekeepers, laundromat staff, office workers, van drivers, street vendors, maintenance technicians in wastewater treatment plants, and waste segregation officers in the university and market. The level of airborne microplastic exposure was found to be influenced by the daily activities and environmental conditions of the workplace. Waste segregation officers in the university and market exhibited the highest levels of exposure to airborne microplastics, at 3964 ± 2575 microplastics per cubic meter (n/m3) and 3474 ± 678 n/m3, respectively. Further analysis focused on airborne microplastics less than 10 µm in size which can be taken in through inhalation. During the 8 h working period, the waste segregation officer in the university recorded the highest 10 µm airborne microplastic intake, at 5460 pieces, followed by the waste segregation officer in the market at 3301 pieces, housekeepers at 899 pieces, van drivers at 721 pieces, maintenance technicians in WWTPs at 668 pieces, laundromat staff at 454 pieces, street vendors at 249 pieces, and office workers at 131 pieces.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ekbordin Winijkul
- Environmental Engineering and Management, Asian Institute of Technology, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand;
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Zhu J, Hu Q, He X, Wang L, Xu H, Benjamin Oduro N. 8-hour performance of loose-fitting powered air-purifying respirators in simulated hospital and coal mine environments. J Occup Environ Hyg 2023; 20:598-609. [PMID: 37682703 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2023.2256809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Loose-fitting powered air-purifying respirators (LF-PAPRs) are increasingly used in hospitals and coal mines because of their high comfort and protection level, but the utilization faces the challenges of 8-hr continuous high protection requirements in the hospital environment and the coupling effects of high temperature, high humidity, high dust concentration in coal mines. Based on the self-developed powered air-purifying respirator simulation test system, this study explores the 8-hr changes of supplied airflow, the relative air pressure inside the inlet covering (ΔP), and total inward leakage (TIL) of four models of LF-PAPRs in simulated hospital and coal mine environments. Results show that: (1) In a simulated hospital environment, all four LF-PAPRs showed filter cartridge blockage within 5 ∼ 6 hr of continuous operation; while in the simulated coal mine, three models of LF-PAPRs showed filter cartridge blockage within 3 hr. (2) In both the hospital and coal mine environments, there are cases where the supplied airflow of LF-PAPRs dropped below 170 L/min within 3 hr. (3) In a simulated hospital environment, the ΔP of all LF-PAPRs maintained positive within 5-6 hr; while in the simulated coal mine, the ΔP of two LF-PAPRs, respectively, appeared negative after 1 hr and 1.6 hr operation. (4) The maximum TIL of the tested LF-PAPRs, respectively ranged from 0.5-0.9% and 1.4-3% in simulated hospital and coal mine environments. (5) In both hospital and coal mine environments, the supplied airflow and ΔP of each LF-PAPR showed a decreasing trend with increasing test duration, while the TIL significantly increased with testing time. (6) The supplied airflow, ΔP, and TIL of each LF-PAPR in the simulated hospital environment performed better than those in the coal mine. This study evaluated the performance of PAPR under the most severe operating conditions, and respirator performance may differ under in-situ conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintuo Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Coal Methane and Fire Control, Ministry of Education, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- National Professional Laboratory for Fundamental Research of Mine Gas and Dust Control Technology, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qi Hu
- Key Laboratory of Coal Methane and Fire Control, Ministry of Education, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- National Professional Laboratory for Fundamental Research of Mine Gas and Dust Control Technology, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinjian He
- Key Laboratory of Coal Methane and Fire Control, Ministry of Education, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- National Professional Laboratory for Fundamental Research of Mine Gas and Dust Control Technology, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Coal Methane and Fire Control, Ministry of Education, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- National Professional Laboratory for Fundamental Research of Mine Gas and Dust Control Technology, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huan Xu
- School of Materials Science and Physics, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Nkansah Benjamin Oduro
- Key Laboratory of Coal Methane and Fire Control, Ministry of Education, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- National Professional Laboratory for Fundamental Research of Mine Gas and Dust Control Technology, School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- School of Safety Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Sousan S, Anthony TR, Altmaier R, Gibbs J, Nonnenmann M. Use of prototype side stream filtration system to control dust levels in a commercial swine farrowing building. J Occup Environ Hyg 2023; 20:633-645. [PMID: 37582250 PMCID: PMC10918672 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2023.2247457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Swine meat provides an essential global food source. Due to economies of scale, modern U.S. swine production primarily occurs indoors to maintain an optimal environment across the stages of swine production. Indoor concentrations of dust and contaminant gases in swine production buildings increase in the winter months due to reduced ventilation to optimal building temperature. In this study, an engineering control technology designed to recirculate the air in a swine farrowing room through a mobile air handling unit containing high-efficiency particulate filters was presented. A mobile solution could be easily deployed as an intervention method if an infectious disease outbreak occurs at a swine operation. The performance of this control technology was evaluated following deployment in a production farrowing barn for a period of 6 weeks during the winter in the Midwestern United States. Contaminant concentrations of inhalable dust, respirable dust, and carbon dioxide were measured in the room treated by the prototype system and compared to contaminant concentrations measured in an untreated "control" room. Over 6 weeks, the mean inhalable and respirable dust concentrations observed during the study period for the "treatment" room were 2.61 and 0.14 mg/m3, respectively, compared to 3.51 and 0.25 mg/m3, respectively, for the control room. The mobile recirculating ventilation system, operating at a flow rate of 45 m3/min (5 room air exchanges per hour), reduced the inhalable dust by 25% and respirable dust by 48% as measured with a real-time aerosol monitor, when compared to the control room. In addition, no concentration differences in carbon dioxide and relative humidity between the treatment and the control rooms were observed. Inhalable and respirable concentrations of dust were significantly reduced (p = 0.001), which demonstrates an essential improvement of the air quality that may prove beneficial to reduce the burden of disease among both workers and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinan Sousan
- Department of Public Health, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
- North Carolina Agromedicine Institute, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
| | - T Renée Anthony
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Ralph Altmaier
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Jenna Gibbs
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Matthew Nonnenmann
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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Rey-Brandariz J, Martínez C, Candal-Pedreira C, Pérez-Ríos M, Varela-Lema L, Ruano-Ravina A. Occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica and lung cancer: a systematic review of cut-off points. Environ Health 2023; 22:82. [PMID: 38031062 PMCID: PMC10687911 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-023-01036-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is associated with the development of lung cancer. However, there is uncertainty around the exposure threshold at which exposure to RCS may pose a clear risk for the development of lung cancer. The objective of this study was to review the cut-off points at which the risk of mortality or incidence of lung cancer due to occupational exposure to RCS becomes evident through a systematic review. METHODS We conducted a search in PubMed, including cohort and case-control studies which assessed various categories of RCS exposure. A search was also conducted on the webpages of institutional organizations. A qualitative data synthesis was performed. RESULTS Twenty studies were included. Studies that assessed lung cancer mortality and incidence displayed wide variability both in RCS exposure categories and related risks. Although most studies found no significant association for RCS exposure categories, it appears to be a low risk of lung cancer for mean concentrations of less than 0.07mg/m3. Regulatory agencies set annual RCS exposure limits ranging from 0.025mg/m3 through 0.1mg/m3. CONCLUSIONS There is a wide degree of heterogeneity in RCS exposure categories, with most studies observing no significant risk of lung cancer for the lowest exposure categories. Cut-off points differ between agencies but are nonetheless very similar and do not exceed 0.1mg/m3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rey-Brandariz
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, C/ San Francisco s/n, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública- CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Martínez
- Asturias Clinical Hospital, Oviedo, Spain
- Principality of Asturias Health Research Institute (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias-ISPA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Cristina Candal-Pedreira
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, C/ San Francisco s/n, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública- CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela-IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Mónica Pérez-Ríos
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, C/ San Francisco s/n, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública- CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela-IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Leonor Varela-Lema
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, C/ San Francisco s/n, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública- CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela-IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alberto Ruano-Ravina
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, C/ San Francisco s/n, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain.
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública- CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela-IDIS), Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Marjerrison N, Grimsrud TK, Hansen J, Martinsen JI, Nordby KC, Olsen R, Veierød MB, Kjærheim K. Occupational exposures of firefighting and urinary tract cancer risk among men in the Norwegian Fire Departments Cohort. Occup Environ Med 2023; 80:659-666. [PMID: 37863650 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2023-109003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Increased risks of bladder cancer and mesothelioma were the strongest evidence for the recent reclassification of firefighting as carcinogenic (Group 1) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Our study aim was to develop indicators for specific firefighting exposures and examine associations with urinary tract cancer (UTC), including bladder cancer. METHODS We developed indicators for exposure from employment at a fire department or in firefighting jobs, to fire and smoke, and to diesel exhaust for men in the Norwegian Fire Departments Cohort (n=4250). Incident UTC cases were obtained from the Cancer Registry of Norway (1960-2021). Poisson regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRR) with cumulative exposures grouped into tertiles (reference: lowest exposed tertile) with 0-year, 10-year and 15-year lagging of exposures. RESULTS During 125 090 person-years of follow-up, there were 76 cases of UTC. IRRs were mostly non-significantly increased in the middle tertile and at or below 1 in the highest tertile for total duration of employment, number of fires attended and fire exposure score with and without lags. In the middle tertile for diesel exhaust exposure, UTC risk was elevated over twofold with 10-year (IRR 2.27, 95% CI 1.22 to 4.20) and 15- year (2.21, 1.18 to 4.16) lags, and near 1 in the highest tertile. Findings for bladder cancer were similar to those for UTC. CONCLUSIONS Dose-response associations between the exposure indicators and UTC were not observed. Future studies using the indicators with more cases are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niki Marjerrison
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo, Norway
- Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tom K Grimsrud
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo, Norway
| | - Johnni Hansen
- Institute of Cancer Epidemiology, Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Raymond Olsen
- National Institute of Occupational Health (STAMI), Oslo, Norway
| | - Marit B Veierød
- Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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46
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Assenhöj M, Almstrand AC, Kokelj S, Ljunggren SA, Olin AC, Karlsson H. Occupational exposure and health surveys at metal additive manufacturing facilities. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1292420. [PMID: 38054074 PMCID: PMC10694287 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1292420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Additive manufacturing is a novel state-of-the art technology with significant economic and practical advantages, including the ability to produce complex structures on demand while reducing the need of stocking materials and products. Additive manufacturing is a technology that is here to stay; however, new technologies bring new challenges, not only technical but also from an occupational health and safety perspective. Herein, leading Swedish companies using metal additive manufacturing were studied with the aim of investigating occupational exposure and the utility of chosen exposure- and clinical markers as predictors of potential exposure-related health risks. Methods Exposure levels were investigated by analysis of airborne dust and metals, alongside particle counting instruments measuring airborne particles in the range of 10 nm-10 μm to identify dusty work tasks. Health examinations were performed on a total of 48 additive manufacturing workers and 39 controls. All participants completed a questionnaire, underwent spirometry, and blood and urine sampling. A subset underwent further lung function tests. Results Exposure to inhalable dust and metals were low, but particle counting instruments identified specific work tasks with high particle emissions. Examined health parameters were well within reference values on a group level. However, statistical analysis implied an impact on workers kidney function and possible airway inflammation. Conclusion The methodology was successful for investigating exposure-related health risks in additive manufacturing. However, most participants have been working <5 years. Therefore, long-term studies are needed before we can conclusively accept or reject the observed effects on health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Assenhöj
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine Center in Linköping, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ann-Charlotte Almstrand
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Spela Kokelj
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Stefan A. Ljunggren
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine Center in Linköping, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Anna-Carin Olin
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Helen Karlsson
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine Center in Linköping, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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47
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Newton A, Rule AM, Serdar B, Koehler K. Laboratory comparison of field portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (FP-XRF) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for determination of airborne metals in stainless steel welding fume. J Occup Environ Hyg 2023; 20:536-544. [PMID: 37578775 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2023.2244022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Welding fume is a common exposure in occupational settings. Gravimetric analysis for total particulate matter is common; however, the cost of laboratory analyses limits the availability of quantitative exposure assessment for welding fume metal constituents in occupational settings. We investigated whether a field portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (FP-XRF) could provide accurate estimates of personal exposures to metals common in welding fume (chromium, copper, manganese, nickel, vanadium, and zinc). The FP-XRF requires less training and is easier to deploy in many settings than traditional wet laboratory analyses. Filters were analyzed both by FP-XRF and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). We estimated the FP-XRF limit of detection for each metal and developed a correction factor accounting for the non-uniform deposition pattern on filter samples collected with an Institute of Medicine (IOM) inhalable particulate matter sampler. Strong linear correlation was observed for all metals (0.72
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Newton
- Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ana M Rule
- Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Berrin Serdar
- Environmental Health Associates LLC, Englewood, Colorado
| | - Kirsten Koehler
- Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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48
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Chen GL, Tan Q, Feng YJ, Lan HJ, Yang XW, Zhou XQ. [Determination of 4-methyl-2-pentanol in workplace air by solvent desorption-gas chromatography]. Zhonghua Lao Dong Wei Sheng Zhi Ye Bing Za Zhi 2023; 41:859-862. [PMID: 37935555 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn121094-20230103-000001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To establish a method for the determination of 4-methyl-2-pentanol in the air of workplace by gas chromatography. Methods: In January 2022, 4-methyl-2-pentanol in the air of workplace was collected by activated carbontube, eluted with dichloromethane-methanol (95∶5, V/V), separated by capillary column and determined by gas chromatogram. Results: The limit of detection for 4-methyl-2-pentanol was 0.04 μg/ml. The linear range of 4-methyl-2-pentanol was 0.16-1616.60 μg/ml, with the regression equation of y=1.94x-5.48, and the coefficient correlation was 0.99958, and the minimum detection concentration was 0.03 mg/m(3) (collected sample volume was 1.50 L). The within-run precisions were 1.08%-1.75% and the between-run precisions were 1.41%-2.52%. The desorption rates were 95.15%-99.91%. The samples could be stored at least 3 days at room temperature and 7 days at 4 ℃ without significant loss. Conclusion: The method has the advantages of good precision, high sensitivity and simple operation. It is suitable for the determination of 4-methyl-2-pentanol in the air of workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- G L Chen
- Laboratory Department, Foshan Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Control, Foshan Occupational Health Research Institute, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Q Tan
- Laboratory Department, Foshan Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Control, Foshan Occupational Health Research Institute, Foshan 528000, China
| | - Y J Feng
- Laboratory Department, Foshan Nanhai District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Foshan 528200, China
| | - H J Lan
- Laboratory Department, Foshan Nanhai District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Foshan 528200, China
| | - X W Yang
- Laboratory Department, Foshan Nanhai District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Foshan 528200, China
| | - X Q Zhou
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Medicine, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
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49
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Delabre L, Houot MT, Burtin A, Pilorget C. Occupational exposure to silica dust in France: an ongoing concern. Scand J Work Environ Health 2023; 49:526-534. [PMID: 37539747 PMCID: PMC10842119 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.4105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Crystalline silica is found in many construction materials. Although it is one of the oldest known occupational exposures, new exposure contexts have emerged in recent years. In 2021, France classified work involving exposure to respirable crystalline silica (ie, silica dust) generated by a work process as carcinogenic. In order to assess exposure in the French workforce between 1947 and 2020, we developed a silica job-exposure matrix (JEM) for the Matgéné program. METHOD The JEM was linked with occupational data from different population censuses (1982, 1990, 1999, 2007 and 2017). The proportions and numbers of workers exposed to silica dust in France at these various census time points were estimated and described by sex and industry for 2017. RESULTS After decreasing between 1982 and 1999, the proportion of workers exposed to silica dust remained stable at 4%, representing 975 000 workers in 2017. Exposed workers were mostly men (93%), and most worked in the construction industry (64%). This was also the industry where the majority of workers were exposed to a level above the French 8-hour time weighted average occupational exposure limit (TWA-OEL). CONCLUSION A large number of workers in France were still exposed (some highly) to silica dust in 2017 so this agent still poses an occupational health concern. The results of this study provide key information about the continued surveillance of the evolution of exposure to silica dust. In a few years, it will be possible to quantify the impact of the 2021 regulation in terms of proportions and number of workers exposed to silica dust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurène Delabre
- Santé publique France, The French Public Health Agency, 12 rue du val d'Osne, 94415 Saint-Maurice, France.
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50
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Gołofit-Szymczak M, Wójcik-Fatla A, Stobnicka-Kupiec A, Górny RL. Filters of automobile air conditioning systems as in-car source of exposure to infections and toxic moulds. Environ Sci Pollut Res 2023; 30:108188-108200. [PMID: 37749467 PMCID: PMC10611836 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29947-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The main component of an air conditioning system is air filters. Over time, the filters of an air conditioning system in cars can turn into sources of emission of microbiological hazards. The aim of this study was to quantitatively and qualitatively assess the presence of infectious and toxic fungi in the AC filters in passenger cars. The studied non-woven filters were removed from passenger cars during the "winter"/"summer" seasons. The taxonomic identification of the fungi isolated from the filters was performed using both the culture-based and molecular methods. RT-PCR was applied to assess the presence of gene fragments regulating aflatoxin biosynthesis in the isolates obtained from fungal cultures. The average fungal concentrations in the filter samples collected during the summer/winter season were 5.4 × 104 cfu/m2 and 2.4 × 104 cfu/m2, respectively. Most of the filter samples, collected in both the studied seasons, revealed the presence of Aspergillus species including A. fumigatus, A. niger, A. terreus and/or A. flavus. The recorded levels of fungal contamination of AC filters in passenger cars indicate the necessity for more frequent filter replacement in this type of vehicle. Occupational exposure to moulds and the resulting health problems that may be experienced by professional drivers should be properly recognised in order to undertake effective preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Gołofit-Szymczak
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Angelina Wójcik-Fatla
- Department of Health Biohazards and Parasitology, Institute of Rural Health, Lublin, Poland
| | - Agata Stobnicka-Kupiec
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafał L Górny
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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