bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
89 Promoting SDG 8: decent work and the 5th fundamental right – A safe workplace
Authors: Hiddinga-Schipper Andrea
Published: June 2024

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent an ambitious global agenda, aiming to address multifaceted challenges by 2030. SDG 8 places a crucial emphasis on promoting Decent Work and Economic Growth. At its core lies the recognition of the 5th fundamental right of workers: a safe and healthy working environment.

This presentation highlights the profound significance of acknowledging workplace safety and health as a fundamental right within the framework of SDG 8. It underscores that this right is not just an ethical imperative but an essential catalyst for achieving broader sustainable development goals.

Firstly, a safe and healthy working environment is intrinsic to the well-being of workers, aligning closely with the principles of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). By reducing occupational hazards and illnesses, it directly contributes to improved physical and mental health, enhancing workers’ productivity and quality of life.

Secondly, a safe and healthy working environment is a linchpin for economic growth, closely aligned with the objectives of SDG 8. Decent working environments reduces absenteeism, cost of health care, enhance well-being, job satisfaction, safety-culture, and support overall health of workers which will create a more robust labour force, promoting economic stability.

In conclusion, recognizing the 5th fundamental right, a safe workplace, is crucial for advancing the SDGs. It catalyses progress across multiple dimensions, from improving individual well-being and economic growth to promoting responsible consumption and production. Collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and civil society is essential to uphold this right for a more equitable, sustainable future.
92 Dermal and inhalable cobalt exposure at Swedish hard metal plants
Authors: Andersson Lena , Wahlqvist Fredrik , Bryngelsson Ing-Liss , Westberg Håkan , Vihlborg Per
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Manufacture of hard metal is one major use of cobalt in the work environment. Known health effects of cobalt exposure is asthma, hard metal lung disease, contact allergy and increased risk of cancer. Recent studies has shown that cobalt exposure may occur by penetration through skin even though it is mainly absorbed from the pulmonary tract via inhalation. The relationships between exposure to inhalable cobalt in air and on skin and the uptake in blood and urine and the association between dermal symptoms and dermal exposure was investigated.

Methodology

Cobalt exposure as inhalable cobalt in the breathing zone and as cobalt on skin with acid wash was measured for 71 workers in two Swedish hard metal production facilities. Uptake of cobalt was determined with samples of cobalt in blood and urine. Correlations between exposure and uptake were analysed.

Results

Multiple linear regression of cobalt in air and on skin with cobalt in blood showed regression coefficients with cobalt in blood (β = 203, p < 0.0010, and β = 0.010, p = 0.0040) and with cobalt in urine (β = 5779, p = 0.0010, and β = 0.10, p = 0.60).

Conclusion

The study present statistically significant correlations between exposure to cobalt in air with uptake of cobalt in blood and urine. Cobalt on skin was statistically significant with cobalt in blood but not with urine.
93 Chloroform exposure in air and water in Swedish indoor swimming pools - urine as a biomarker of occupational exposure
Authors: Ragnebro Oskar , Helmersmo Kristin , Fornander Louise , Olsen Raymond , Bryngelsson Ing-Liss , Graff Pål , Westerlund Jessica
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Chloroform is found in swimming pool air and can be absorbed by inhalation, ingestion and dermal absorption, and is classified as possibly carcinogenic. The study aimed to investigate if chloroform concentrations in air and water affect the chloroform concentration in urine samples of exposed swimming pool workers.

Methods

Workers from five adventure indoor swimming pools carried personal chloroform air samplers and provided up to four urine samples during one workday. Chloroform concentrations were analysed with a linear mixed model analysis to investigate a possible correlation between air and urine concentrations.

Results

The geometric mean chloroform concentration was 11 μg/m3 in air and 0.009 µg/g creatinine in urine among individuals with ≤2 hours at work, 0.023 µg/g creatinine with >2–5 working hours and 0.026 µg/g creatinine with >5–10 working hours. Higher levels of chloroform in urine was associated with longer hours at work (≤2 h vs >5–10 h, OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.25–3.34), personal chloroform concentrations in air (≤17.00 µg/m3 vs >28.00 µg/m3, OR 9.23, 95% CI 3.68–23.13) and working at least half the working day near the swimming pools (OR 3.16, 95% CI 1.33–7.55). Work tasks in the swimming pool water was not associated with higher chloroform concentrations in urine compared to only working on land (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.27–2.45).

Conclusion

There is an accumulation of chloroform concentrations in urine during a workday and a correlation between personal air and urine concentrations of chloroform among workers in Swedish indoor swimming pools.
95 Standardised Measurement of Equipment Particulate Airborne Concentration (SMEPAC) monitoring
Authors: Büchl Silke , Labatzke Ramona
Published: June 2024

What is Standardised Measurement of Equipment Particulate Airborne Concentration (SMEPAC) monitoring? Who does SMEPAC monitoring? How is it done and what do I need to know about SMEPAC monitoring? The fundamental principles you need to be aware of when dealing with SMEPAC monitoring.

When new equipment is installed in pharmaceutical industries an APCPPE-test (Assessing the Particulate Containment Performance of Pharmaceutical Equipment) should be performed to collect knowledge about the exposure profile of the equipment. This was formerly known as SMEPAC-test and the name is still commonly known and used, although the ISPE guideline (International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering) was edited to APCPPE long ago.

The above raised questions will be discussed in the presentation. Strategy and method for exposure monitoring will be laid out at an example for pharmaceutical equipment. The theoretical approach of APCPPE-testing will be complemented with experiences from practice as “lessons learned” and conclude with the assessment of the results and the pass/fail decision making.
96 Investigating farmers’ exposure to airborne pollutants in free stall dairy barns
Authors: Baclayon Johansen Ellen Kristina , Jørgensen Rikke , Nordhammer Anna , Smedbold Hans Thore
Published: June 2024

Pollutants in barns can lead to health problems for farmers. Due to animal welfare considerations, a transition from tie stall barns to free stall barns is underway. This transition can affect the farmers working environment; thus knowledge about what pollutants are present in free stall barns are crucial. With such knowledge, the farmers can implement preventive measures during the construction phase.

This study investigated three free stall barns in Norway. They were different in size, age and technical solutions. Two barns stored the manure under the barn and used mechanical ventilation. One barn stored the manure in a tank outside and used natural ventilation.

Two fractions of dust and five gases were measured using personal air samplers. A work log was written in order to identify activities and places that could result in high exposure. Temperature, carbon dioxide and relative humidity were measured to assess the climatic conditions.

Exposure to dust seemed to correlate to the farmer’s activities more than constructional factors. High dust exposure were found during cleaning activities, removal of manure, use of cattle feed mixer and more. Constructional factors like ventilation and manure storage seemed to be more important for gas exposure, rather than farmer activities. Exposure levels of ammonia can possibly exceed OEL and must be controlled. Due to the ammonia sensors’ cross sensitivity to chlorine, possible exposure to chlorine gas and chloramines were discussed.
101 Quantitative models for prediction of occupational exposure to respirable dust and quartz within the formulating, metal manufacturing and construction industries
Authors: Heussen Henri , Koppisch Dorothea , Colomo Carlota Alejandre , Arnone Mario , Zilaout Hicham
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Stoffenmanager® is a quantitative inhalation exposure tool for OSH and REACH, (inter)nationally recognized by local governments and the EU. Three novel generic models to quantitatively predict exposure to respirable dust and respirable quartz are developed, aiming to protect workers from associated health risks within formulating, metal manufacturing and construction industries.

Methods

Personal exposure data including comprehensive contextual information were extracted from the IFA exposure database MEGA. Stoffenmanager® scores were calculated for the measurement values. For each quantitative model exposure data were segregated into calibration and validation datasets. Subsequently, mixed effect models were performed to derive quantitative regression equations. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated to study the relation between concentrations estimated with use of new regression equations and measured exposure concentrations.

Results

A total of approximately 8000 good quality personal exposure measurements were extracted for all three models. Stoffenmanager® scores were compared with exposure measurements and the calculated spearman coefficients showed a positive relationship for all algorithms. Correlations between observed and estimated exposures ranged between r=0.40 and r=0.71. Proportions of measurements above 50th and 90th percentile were calculated, as a measure for conservatism of the models. They varied around 50% and 10% respectively.

Discussion and conclusion

The substantial amount of personal exposure data, the good correlation and the level of conservatism indicate that the three innovative models are sufficient to be implemented in Stoffenmanager® to expand its applicability domain. The new models serve to improve workers’ health by reducing occupational exposure to respirable dust and quartz.
108 Preparation for and adaptation to COVID-19 in Irish Workplaces – experiences of Irish personnel with responsibilities for occupational hygiene and health
Authors: Buggy Conor , Chen Yanbing , Ingram Carolyn , Downey Vicky , Sripaiboonkij Penpatra , Perrotta Carla
Published: June 2024

Introduction

An investigation of Irish workplace adaptation to COVID-19 was conducted to assess impact to workers, their organisations and to develop new occupational hygiene and health adaptation mechanisms for future pandemic emergencies.

Materials and Methods

As part of the study, occupational safety and health (OSH) professionals (n=60) that held responsibilities for occupational hygiene and occupational health risk management, took part in a series of semi-structured mixed-method online focus groups. Each focus group incorporated twenty quantitative questions that were answered anonymously via a poll function.

Results

58% of workplaces began pandemic occupational hygiene and health risk management preparations prior to COVID-19s emergence in Ireland. 66% of workplaces remained open while 27% were partially closed. 34% of workplaces had over half their workforce working from home (as opposed to 5% pre-pandemic). 54% of workplaces had existing occupational hygiene and health risk assessments that incorporated infectious disease considerations prior to the pandemic. 41% of workplaces had identified a viral pandemic scenario as part of its emergency planning prior to COVID-19. The majority (63%) of workers understood the occupational hygiene and health control measures instigated as a response to COVID-19 with a greater majority (90%) more willing to accept future workplace changes if they know it is to keep them safe and healthy.

Conclusion

Irish workplaces adapted well to the changing OSH landscape that emerged in response to COVID-19. Irish workplaces are now more likely to be able to adapt and respond well to future similar public health emergencies.
109 Evaluation of chemical exposures and exposure mitigation strategies for nail salons
Authors: Anderson Kimberly
Published: June 2024

Nail products often contain hazardous chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, benzene, and phthalates; chemicals that have been linked to health issues such as respiratory irritation, asthma, and adverse reproductive outcomes. The objective of this study was to measure volatile organic compound (VOC) exposures associated with 1) different manicure types (lacquer, gel, dip, and acrylic), 2) “non-toxic” nail polishes and 3) evaluate the effectiveness of LEV systems that are marketed specifically for nail salons. Total VOCs (TVOC, photoionization detector, Tiger) and speciated VOCs (Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometer, Gasmet Inc) were measured in the breathing zone while manicures were simulated in an exposure chamber. Ten brands of nail polishes marketed as “non-toxic” were evaluated by applying two coats to artificial nails and exposures measured following the methods described above. Additionally, four different local exhaust ventilation (LEV) designs marketed to nail salons were evaluated. A Bayesian spline model was used to analyze log-transformed concentrations, incorporating task-related fixed effects and covariates. Task and manicure type significantly impact TVOC exposures with acrylic manicures having the highest TVOC exposures. Speciated VOC exposures varied significantly between the type of manicure being performed. Formaldehyde and toluene were detected in all “non-toxic” polishes tested. Average formaldehyde and toluene exposures ranged from <LOD to 0.16 ppm and from <LOD to 0.67 ppm, respectively, depending on polish brand. LEV moderately reduced TVOC exposures by 30-70%, consistent with prior research. These findings emphasize the need for comprehensive exposure reduction strategies in nail salons, that considers the diverse chemicals used in various services.
110 Investigating a cancer cluster in Ontario, Canada using historical occupational hygiene data to evaluate risk of occupational cancers
Authors: Thompson Krista
Published: June 2024

In 2022, the province of Ontario in Canada had 95,000 cancer cases diagnosed in a population of 15.11 million. The 16 most common occupational carcinogens cause 3,000 cancer diagnoses per year in Ontario. However, there is a lack of awareness of occupational cancers, with just 400 claims submitted on average per year to Ontario’s workers’ compensation insurance agency, of which 170 claims are accepted.

A labour union approached the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers, Inc. (OHCOW) with a request to investigate a potential cancer cluster among a cohort of workers/retirees with exposures to blacksmithing, welding fumes, and diesel exhaust. OHCOW is a not-for-profit labour governed, worker-based network with a team of dedicated health professionals including 18 occupational hygienists. Occupational hygienists at OHCOW are trained to do retrospective exposure assessments using a combination of published data, databases of exposures, and when available, employer occupational hygiene data.

Using occupational hygiene reports from the 1970s to 2010s, an occupational hygienist analyzed the workers’ exposures to IARC Group 1 carcinogens to investigate the cluster. This presentation will summarize the challenges of using historical data, the application of current evidence-based occupational exposure limits, the importance of referring to peer-reviewed published literature, and finally the outcomes of the workers’ compensation submissions.
114 Cotton undergarments as tool for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons whole-body dosimetry of firefighters
Authors: Koslitz Stephan , Taeger Dirk , Heinrich Birgit , Köster Daniel , Pelzl Tim , Käfferlein Heiko Udo , Pitzke Katrin , Brüning Thomas , Behrens Thomas
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Firefighters are exposed to a variety of hazardous substances during fire-fighting activities. Especially fire smoke contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) some of which have been shown to cause cancer in humans. To assess the dermal exposure of firefighters during real-life firefighting, a whole-body dosimetry [TB1] [KS2] method was applied to determine the PAH that settle on the skin despite of firefighters wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).

Methodology

For the study, 17 firefighters in Germany wore cotton undergarments, gloves, socks, and balaclavas under their PPE during firefighting missions. After firefighting, fabric pieces at 21 predefined spots and, additionally, areas that were visibly contaminated with soot (“hot spots”) were analysed for 16 US-EPA PAH and benzo[e]pyrene. Detailed information about the fire missions were solicited from firefighters via questionnaire.

Results

For 70 % of firefighters, we determined PAH in the fabric pieces from undergarments worn under the PPE. In 9 % of 309 punched[TB3] [KS4] -out fabric pieces PAH could be quantified. Phenanthrene and pyrene were the predominant PAH. One fabric piece contained benzo[a]pyrene (103 ng/g), this concentration was just above the limit of quantification[TB5] [KS6]. Concentrations were higher after firefighting in residential buildings than after exposure to vehicle or other outdoor fires. The highest observed concentration was 657 ng/g phenanthrene found in a trousers’ pocket opening.

Conclusion

PAH may settle down on firefighters’ skin during firefighting. The protection level of actual PPE has been shown to shield against PAH. However, further efforts are necessary to reduce dermal exposure because PAH are known human carcinogens.
124 Functional requirements for a new risk assessment tool: the first step - a new inhalation model to assess exposure to bioaerosols
Authors: Colomo Carlota Alejandre , Marchand Geneviève , Viegas Carla , van der Haar Rudolf , Antiller Cristina Bercero , Houba Remko , Madsen Anne Mette , Zilaout Hicham , Heussen Henri
Published: June 2024

Within Occupational Hygiene, risk assessments due to exposure to biological agents has received less emphasis compared to risks associated with other hazardous substances. Thus, the tools for hazard inventory, risk assessment, and implementation of control measures for biological agents remain scarce.

The COVID-19 pandemic raised awareness on the magnitude of potential health consequences linked to exposure to biological agents also in workplace environments. But concerns should not be limited to infectious biological agents. Non-infectious microorganisms might also impact in workers’ health due to their sensitizing, toxic and even carcinogenic effects. Workers in various sectors may be exposed through aerosols or contact with infected persons or materials that are contaminated with microorganisms.

Different qualitative risk assessment tools for biological agents have been developed over the last decades, with differences in their scope, parameters used and results obtained. In order to propose a functional design for the development of a new risk assessment tool related to biological agents, four existing tools were compared to better understand their strengths, limitations and applicability.

Based on this comparison, a general structure for a complete new tool was proposed with some key requirements for determining occupational exposure to biological agents. Furthermore, we developed a new qualitative risk assessment model for bioaerosol inhalation created from a source-receptor conceptual model where scores for each parameter were assigned based on literature. The current model has been applied to seven different sectors and tested in more than 120 real workplace scenarios with satisfactory results.
126 Size distribution and characterization of particulate matter generated during tunnel boring machine excavation
Authors: Ervik Torunn , Leite Mimmi , Weinbruch Stephan , Nordby Karl-Christian , Ellingsen Dag G , Ulvestad Bente , Dahl Kari , Berlinger Balazs , Skaugset Nils Petter
Published: June 2024

The use of tunnel boring machines (TBMs) for tunnel excavation is expected to increase in the coming years. Workers near and on the TBM are exposed to fine mineral particles, including α-quartz. The particle size distribution has implications on health effects, monitoring and control strategies as well as accurate α-quartz quantification. The aim of our study was to investigate and characterize the particle size distribution of particulate matter including α-quartz associated with tunnel excavation by TBMs in an area dominated by metamorphic rocks (e.g., gneiss).

Sioutas cascade impactors were used to collect personal samples (n=14) on three separate days. The impactor fractionates the dust in five size fractions, from 10 µm down to below 0.25 µm. The filters were weighted, and the α-quartz concentrations was measured by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis using the NIOSH 7500 method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to determine size and elemental composition of individual particles.

Most of the particulate mass was found on the first three impactor stages (0.5-10 µm. There were no observable differences in the size distribution for the three sampling days and for the various work tasks. However, the α-quartz proportion varied for the three sampling days indicating a dependency on petrology. The size distribution of the calculated respirable α-quartz fraction was different from the calibration material, which most likely affects the accuracy of the measured α-quartz air concentrations. Knowledge of the particle size distribution is important for dust control actions since they should reduce the respirable α-quartz fraction.
140 Good intentions gone wrong. A case study in occupational hygiene, corporate social responsibility and product stewardship
Authors: Redfern Nathan , Taylor Michael
Published: June 2024

Typically exposure based assessments in occupational based settings focused on able bodies workers without significant intellectual disability or neurological injuries. Where co-morbidities or intellectual disabilities are prevalent in a workforce, the potential for exposure, particularly unrecognised exposures is heightened. In this case study, a workplace which employs workers with disabilities was engaged to clean respirators following their use in heavy metals processing, as a form of product stewardship and corporate social responsibility.

Unfortunately, the nature of the services provided was not explicitly detailed or the hazard identified. Workers themselves were not sufficiently competent in risk recognition to indicate if/when masks received were more dusty than normal, and due to their disabilities were at a heightened risk of exposure or cross contamination of the workplace. An assessment of the workplace was conducted, with samples collected of the work areas, general office areas and masks resulting in appreciable lead levels.

The survey was additionally complicated as the workplace is in close proximity to lead processing industries. The complexities of this work are discussed, including the ethics of requiring blood samples in high-care requirement workers, outcomes from investigative approaches as well as learnings in how occupational hygiene is important in product stewardship and CSR.
144 Non-auditory effects of noise - the occupational hygiene approach in an Italian project
Authors: Luzzi Sergio
Published: June 2024

There is a conceptual evolution in assessing and planning the acoustic quality of work environments and activities. New approaches to noise assessment in workplaces, in terms of acoustic damage, noise disturbance, acoustic discomfort, are emerging. The physiological and psycho-behavioural non-auditory effects produced by exposure to noise derived by specific sources and by poor acoustic quality of workplaces is often not considered in national legislations and regulations as well as in international standards. Some projects have considered the evidences of correlation between the room acoustic quality variables, as components of the global comfort design of workplaces and the risk of non-auditory effects on workers’ health. The final results and the possible further development of a recently completed Italian inter-universities project on non-auditory effects of noise exposure in workplaces, with special attention to schools, are shown. Among them, a collection of guidelines referred to experiences and methods aimed at understanding the correlation between acoustic quality of and various physiological and psychological pathologies, included vocal effort, perceptive-cognitive performance and more, showing that there is a new consideration, also in terms of compensation for both auditory and non-auditory (physiological, psycho-behavioural) effects of exposure to noise and a new consideration of the acoustic quality of spaces for speech intelligibility, correct sizing of the safety and alarm signals, reduction of background noise and unnecessary sounds.
165 Ergonomic intervention for maintenance workers for an automatic production system: a case study
Authors: Huang Yuli , Chen Yashin
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Automated equipment is essential in modern industrial operations for its high efficiency. The reliability of an automated system often depend on maintenance workers for ensuring that each equipment runs smoothly. In this case study, the maintenance department at an automated manufacturing facility suffered frequent equipment breakdowns. In addition to routine adjustment, maintenance workers often faced extra workload and stress dealing with troubleshooting sessions. This caused high turnover rate among the trained workers, which further increased workloads to the remaining crew members.

Methodology

Personal interviews were first conducted for the scope of problem. Subsequently, on-site observations were made with the maintenance tasks using Ovako working posture analysis system (OWAS) to assess possible ergonomic hazards. Additionally, service records from the previous 6 months at the facility were reviewed for cause of breakdown, and to assess whether there is a way to reduce the excess workload.

Results

Service records showed that the equipment was down nearly 50% of the time and tended to break down within 24 hours of scheduled maintenance. On-site observations showed that maintenance workers had to work in strenuous postures for extended time period that, upon completion of scheduled maintenance, workers tended to rush to end their tasks without final checks. After discussing with the workers, a checklist was constructed. Within a month the need for subsequent troubleshooting sessions went down substantially, and the equipment running time also increased to over 80%.

Conclusions

Ergonomic hazards can affect workers’ morale. By reconfiguring the task arrangement, equipment errors was greatly reduced. Workers’ participation in problem-solving process also proved helpful.
167 Minds in Mines- Assessing the psychological wellbeing of mining industry workers in Ontario Canada
Authors: Lariviere Dr Michel , Kerekes Dr Zsuzsanna , Nesbitt William
Published: June 2024

The following presentation describes the development of the mental health strategy with the integration of a large-scale survey and the results from the Mining Mental Health project in Ontario, Canada. This 5-year research effort included a large-scale survey of the mental health and wellbeing of mining workers (N= 2,224 participants) using several clinical instruments. The research also integrated qualitative results from individual interviews and focus group meetings. The study represents the first of its kind in the mining industry and results confirmed the need for such research. The prevalence of mental health indicators such as depression, suicidality, PTSD, fatigue, burnout, and substance abuse will be discussed during this presentation as well as their correlates. The predictors of workplace absenteeism and the barriers of a successful return to work will be illustrated. The presentation intends to offer guidance on how to develop a mental health strategy from a systems perspective in the mining industry and involve multiple stakeholders in research of this kind. Finally, it will provide suggestions on potential intervention strategies for mining worker health.
187 An evaluation of indoor environmental quality in offices and schools in Ireland
Authors: Collison Adam , McGrath James , Byrne Miriam
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Workers spend a significant amount of time indoors, and the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) within these environments directly impacts both short-term and long-term health effects, well-being and productivity. In addition, the Irish Health and Safety Authority published a ‘Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality’. However, to date, there is no data assessing workplaces IEQ in the context of these guidelines.

Methodology

This research project is monitoring IEQ in 75 rooms across Irish offices and schools. The study is monitoring Particulate Matter (PM2.5), Radon, TVOCs, Formaldehyde, Limonene, Alpha-pinene, BTEX, along with CO2, temperature and relative humidity. A combination of research-grade equipment and low-cost sensors are used to collect IEQ data. This novel and innovative approach ensures precision measurements of key air pollutants over a week-long period, while also capturing long-term trends for up to a year. Furthermore, this study includes a comprehensive site walkthrough, a survey of the occupancy characteristics, thermal comfort survey and time activity diaries, facilitating of mapping pollution-generating scenarios. Data collection will be completed in May 2024.

Result’s

While monitoring is still ongoing, preliminary data has provided valuable insights into how occupancy behaviour impacts IEQ, high CO2 concentrations (exceeding 2000 ppm) underscore the issue of inadequate ventilation in naturally ventilated classrooms and offices. Several pollutants have already been observed to exceed guidelines set out in the HSA code of practice.

Conclusions

The study will provide valuable IEQ data in workplace environments and ensure the advancement of worker health protection by informing and prioritising intervention strategies.
221 Risk assessment of occupational exposure to graphene nanoforms - Where are we?
Authors: Farbrot Anne , Storsjö Tobias , Nilsson Cecilia , Tinnerberg Håkan
Published: June 2024

Background

Graphene is a 2D-material with many useful properties such as flexibility, elasticity, and conductivity among others. Graphene could therefore become a material used in many occupational fields in the future, and thereby lead to occupational exposure. Today, neither intrinsic hazards with the material in occupational settings nor the extent of exposures are sufficiently known in order to form a basis for occupational risk assessment. There are many publications (>300) dealing with toxicity of graphene and graphene forms, but an evident, reliable and broadly agreed link to human exposure is lacking. In parallel, occupational exposure assessment targeting graphene has suffered from the lack of efficient measuring techniques. Recently we therefore presented a method that is cost-effective and easy-to-use based on quantification of elemental carbon (EC).

Aim

To find out which toxicological methods that can be relevant for the study of local or systemic effects from graphene exposure through the respiratory system and bring the knowledge to discussion.

Method

Literature review focusing on methods that are or might be relevant to graphene deposition and uptake in the lower respiratory system.

Outcome

A mapping of methods and their respective end points that can be related to adverse outcomes in humans. The mapping reveals that there is still a knowledge gap going from toxicity testing to human risk assessment.

Conclusions

There is a need to discuss and decide on further and complementary testing. The present study brings two different starting points.
231 Industry-wide PSP, melding new technology and traditional exposure assessment to promote opportunities for improvements
Authors: McQuoid Nicola , Webster Dawn
Published: June 2024

One aspect of the PSP developed by High Temperature Insulation Wool (HTIW) producers is to evaluate the impact of regulation and technology on exposure, at manufacturing and users’ facilities.

Aims

This study assesses the impact of novel techniques for communicating information on techniques to control dust generation, introduced following the BOELV for ASW/RCF,

Methods

Now in its 27th year, CARE/PSP is the European programme collecting data for occupational exposure to airborne fibrous dust. Following the introduction of the BOELV in 2017, CARE participants began to use visual real-time data recording to improve communication and training, in tandem with traditional monitoring techniques. A review of the data, focusing on evidence of reduced exposure or changed industrial practices since 2017 was conducted.

The data was split pre- and post- 2017 and compared to alkaline earth silicate wool (AES/LBP) which is not classified. An independent third-party statistician extracted the relevant data for this study.

Results

There are significant differences in workplace exposure among functional job categories (FJCs), since the introduction of the BOELV there has been a reduction in exposure, greater use of alternative AES/LBP and move to increased use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) across all FJCs where ASW/RCF is being used.

Conclusion

The data review for the period 2017-2021 has demonstrated

•an overall reduction in fibre exposure at both manufacturers and users’ facilities.

•greater awareness of the need to control fibrous dust.

•increased uptake in the use of RPE

•use of RPE with higher protection factors

•a move to alternative non-classified HTIW as appropriate.
232 The hunt for the mysterious isocyanic acid
Authors: Tinnerberg Håkan , Runström Gunilla , Storsjö Tobias , Johansson Anders , Andersson Lena
Published: June 2024

Isocyanic acid (ICA) has been known for a long time but with limited interest. However, an increasing interest is seen in the literature. ICA has the structural formula HNCO, which is the simplest monoisocyanate, and is structurally very similar to methylisocyanate, the substance that caused the disaster in Bhopal. Due to historical reasons, Sweden, as the only country in the world, has an occupational exposure limit to ICA, but with very vague documentation behind it. In recent studies ICA has been found in the outer environment, but also during i.e. frying food and it is also shown to take part in a protein modification called carbamoylation.

The aim of the study was to perform a survey of occupational exposure to isocyanic acid as a basis for suitable work environments where future studies on health effects can be performed.

We have performed, in total, 185 stationary and personal exposure measurements for ICA in 23 different environments (restaurants, food industries, manufacturers using urea at high temperatures and users of such materials, thermal decomposition of polyurethane, welding in carpet, diathermy treatment, smoking, engine emissions and urban air).

ICA can be found in many environments in very low concentrations. The highest exposures were found in operations where materials containing urea was produced or used and in cigarette smoke. The highest measured personal exposure was ~0.1 mg/m3 (approximately 5 times the Swedish OEL). To further study health effects after exposure to ICA we suggest performing studies in environments where urea is used at elevated temperatures.
234 Measured exposure to soot among Swedish chimney sweeps with focus on sweeping techniques and fuels used
Authors: Klang Therese , Molnár Peter , Tinnerberg Håkan
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Earlier studies have shown that chimney sweeps have an increased risk for many severe health outcomes. These excessive risks have been related to their exposure to soot with the conclusion that the exposure must be reduced.

To contribute to effective measures to reduce chimney sweepers soot exposure, our knowledge about the exposure needs to be extended, which is the overall aim of our project. In this study the difference in airborne exposure to soot has been evaluated between different sweeping techniques and fuels used.

Methodology

A self-monitoring method was used for collection of exposure data. Exposure to airborne soot was measured as black carbon (BC) with micro-aethalometers (microAeth® model MA200 and AE51, AethLabs USA), recording the BC-levels each minute. Personal repeated measurements were performed for eight consecutive workdays for 20 chimney sweeps (13 men and seven women). Each participant filled out a diary with work tasks performed. The measurements with micro-aethalometer were correlated with the diary notes to evaluate exposure levels for different tasks.

The sweeping techniques compared were traditional sweeping and sweeping with rotating rods. The fuels studied were oil, wood and pellets.

Results

Among the preliminary results a large variation of soot exposure was found between different individuals. Different sweeping techniques and fuel used influenced the exposure, with a lower exposure for rotating rod technique and a higher exposure for pellets.

Conclusions

With the large variability in soot exposure found between participants, we are positive that it is possible to reduce the exposure among chimney sweeps.
253 Findings of the Workers’ exposure survey (WES) on cancer risk factors in six European countries
Authors: Vilahur Nadia , Cavet Marine , Schneider Elke , Irastorza Xabier
Published: June 2024

Introduction

EU-OSHA has implemented the largest European survey to date to estimate worker’s exposure to known cancer risk factors.

Methods

WES is based on the Australian workplace exposures study (AWES) and has been thoroughly adapted to the European work context. It uses the occupational exposure assessment tool for epidemiological studies (OccIDEAS) to estimate the probability and level of exposure to 24 selected cancer risk factors in all sectors of activity, including chemical and physical risks like asbestos, benzene, chromium (VI), diesel engine exhaust emissions, nickel, respirable crystalline silica, ultraviolet radiation or wood dust, among others. Estimates of exposure and co-exposures for each respondent are based on detailed answers from workers regarding their job tasks in the last working week; obtained via telephone interviews conducted by trained interviewers in each country.

Results

After fieldwork, 24402 interviews were available for analysis from six countries: Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland and Spain. We will present demographic information on respondents and describe the main findings regarding assessment of exposures and co-exposures to the cancer risk factors. Additional information will be provided on the circumstances of exposure for some of the most spread cancer risk factors (solar ultraviolet radiation, diesel engine exhaust emissions, formaldehyde, benzene, and respirable crystalline silica)

Conclusions

WES results contribute to the Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and support the EU strategic framework on health and safety at work 2021-2027. Data could be used to refine estimates of the burden of harm from carcinogens and help prioritise agents for prevention and monitoring actions.
254 Impact of meteorological conditions on measurement strategy and measured exposures in the Industrial Minerals Association long term Dust Monitoring Programme
Authors: Blagrove-Hall Nicola , Houba Remko , Bussalleu Alonso , Kromhout Hans
Published: June 2024

We analyzed 34,790 simultaneously collected respirable dust and quartz measurements from April 1, 2002-March 31, 2021 at 158 sites across Europe and stored within the Industrial Minerals Association-Dust Monitoring Programme (IMA-DMP) database. From the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts model we extracted 309,833 outdoor temperature, precipitation and windspeed data for the geocoded site addresses for the time period of this study, only weekdays were included. Meteorological conditions for measurement and non-measurement days were compared. Dust and quartz exposure levels were modeled with hierarchical linear mixed models with long-term time trend, temperature, precipitation and windspeed as fixed effects and mineral, site and job title as random effects.

Exposure measurements were collected over 10,863 days at 158 sites, representing 3.5% of days covered by IMA-DMP. Measurement and non-measurement days had slightly different meteorological conditions. Measurement days had slightly higher median temperature: 12.370C vs 11.060C, less median precipitation: 0.28mm v 0.31mm, and lower median outdoor wind speed: 2.13m/s vs 2.33m/s. Respirable dust concentrations decreased with increasing outdoor windspeed and precipitation (respectively 11% and 6% per 10 mm). For respirable quartz the effect was stronger (respectively 17% and 16% per 10 mm). The effect of temperature was marginal for respirable dust, but above 60C respirable quartz concentrations decreased rapidly with 50% per 100C.

Marginal differences in meteorological conditions were seen between measurements days and non-measurement days. Respirable quartz concentrations were more sensitive to meteorological conditions. Long-term changes in meteorological conditions (climate change) might affect indoor workplace respirable dust and especially respirable quartz concentrations.
255 ESG 101 and how occupational hygienists and safety professionals are navigating the “S”
Authors: Redinger Charles , Staves Malcolm
Published: June 2024

It’s trite to say the world changed in 2020. The pandemic and a cascade of issues that precipitated from it has necessitated new ways of thinking about organizational governance and purpose. While ESG (environment, social, governance) standards, methods, and ideas were in the mix before 2020, they became amplified. The “S” of ESG has in particular taken on more attention along with human capital management. This session provides an overview of the human capital/ESG space, including ideas, concepts, standards, and metrics. Emphasis is place on how OHS professionals are supporting their organizations the development ESG reporting structures and their use. The importance of data quality is highlighted. Participants are encourage to consider how ESG can be leveraged to increase worker health and well-being.
259 Investigating welding fume exposure in professional welders using biomonitoring and metabolomics approaches
Authors: Rafiee Ata , Pei Lei , Quecke Emily , Quémerais Bernadette
Published: June 2024

We aimed to investigate the health effects attributed to welding fume exposure in professional welders using biomonitoring and metabolomics approaches. The cohort included 38 welders as the case group and 36 electricians as the control group, recruited from various facilities across the province of Alberta, Canada. Air sampling was performed throughout the work shift. Fasting urine samples were collected from the welders and controls. The identification of metals and metabolites in the samples was performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP/MS) and Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS-MS), respectively. Data analyses were conducted using STATA version 19.0 and MetaboAnalyst version 5.0. Significantly higher levels of As, Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, and Ni were observed in the urine of welders compared to controls (p < 0.05). Regarding the metabolomics profile, we identified 92 metabolites in the urine samples of the studied groups. Multivariate receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified metabolites, such as beta-hydroxybutyric acid, asparagine, ornithine, choline, propionic acid, and histidine, as biomarkers for welding fume exposure (AUC > 0.7). These metabolites exhibited significantly higher levels in welders than in controls. In addition, our findings suggest that smoking, welding experience, respirator usage, and age significantly affect the concentrations of certain urinary metabolites in professional welders. Our study highlights the potential benefits of using biomonitoring and metabolomics approaches to investigate the adverse health effects of welding fume exposure. However, we recommend further investigations to explore the underlying mechanisms of these associations and the effects of other factors.

Keywords: Biomonitoring, Exposure assessment, Welding fumes, Metabolomics.
261 Application of a new custom-made activated charcoal cloth patch in different real work conditions
Authors: Claus Rani , Van De Velde Dahlia , Lemaire Frauke E I , Vranckx Karine , Hoet Peter H M , Ronsmans Steven , Vanoirbeek Jeroen A J
Published: June 2024

Assessing dermal exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is becoming increasingly important in industrial settings. This study evaluated the applicability of a novel custom-made activated charcoal cloth (ACC) patch in various workplaces. Forty-nine workers carrying out different tasks were included in this assessment: desk working (“no VOC exposure”), sandblasting (“no VOC exposure”), cherry-picker driving (“dermal vapour exposure”), repairing (“low liquid exposure), degreasing (“medium liquid exposure”), spray painting (“high liquid exposure”), and immersing (“immersion exposure”). Each participant wore three ACC patches (thumb, index finger and neck). Additionally, two glove types were tested during the immersion task: all-round nitrile gloves and highly chemical-resistant gloves. One extra patch was placed on the outside of the glove to assess the ingress of VOCs. In general, the ACC patches captured various levels of VOCs ranging from levels below LOQ (“no VOC exposure”) to 0.4 mg/cm^2 (“dermal vapour exposure”) and 6.5 mg/cm^2 (“immersion exposure”). Furthermore, the ACC patches allowed us to differentiate the level of direct hand contact by comparing the amount of VOCs found on the fingers versus the neck. Workers carrying out direct liquid handling tasks, such as spray painting, showed over 75% hand versus neck exposure than workers only exposed via vapour (1-30%). Finally, the percentage of ingress could be calculated during the immersion task by comparing the outer patch with the inner patches. When wearing nitrile gloves, 5% of ingress was observed versus nearly 0% when wearing chemical-resistant gloves. These findings demonstrate the applicability of the custom-made ACC patches to measure dermal VOC exposure in different work conditions.
269 Global mining - case study in international risk management: controls through ICMI cyanide code
Authors: Renton Lydia
Published: June 2024

As hygienists, expertise in specific hazardous materials or processes happens over a career. The Cyanide Code focuses exclusively on safe management of cyanide produced, transported and used for the recovery of gold in the international mining industries, and on mill tailings and leach solutions. The Cyanide Code was developed for gold and silver mining operations, and addresses production, transport, storage, and use of cyanide and the decommissioning of cyanide facilities in our global environment and workplaces. It focuses on hazard and risk awareness, controls and measurement, and is applicable for gold mining in all countries.

Using the nine principles of the “Code”, this session provides the pathway for ‘cradle-to-grave’ use of cyanide in gold and silver mining and practical experiences of an approved ICMI (International Cyanide Management Institute) auditor as she navigates the Code and conducts audits globally.

Objectives

Understand what is the International Cyanide Management Code and its 9 Principles for gold mining operations. Pathways to assist gold and silver mines with their environmental and safety programs and relate them to cyanide use. Overview of a specific chemical management system, applicable for other toxic substances.