bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review on the applications of biomimetic principles for sustainable construction
Authors: Adarsh S , Thomas Anu V
Published: June 2024

Biomimetics is an applied science that offers reasonable solutions to various issues of mankind by deriving inspirations from nature by studying the natural designs, processes and systems and imitating the same, thereby achieving maximum construction benefits, even post construction, in a sustainable manner. This paper is a state-of-art review on biomimetics, the different levels of biomimetics, the various approaches of biomimetics, and applications of biomimetics in the construction industry. A case study on East Gate Centre, Harare, is presented to show how the biomimetic approach can be incorporated into the design of new buildings, to function like living organisms, thereby meeting the necessary requirements of making them adaptable to the climatic conditions, and also being able to provide most of its energy requirements from the surrounding nature. The design of the building is on the basis of the ideas and strategies inherited from termites and termite mound. The termites are effectively capable of maintaining a regular uniform internal temperature of 30°C, despite a fluctuation of the daily temperature from less than 0°C to higher than 40°C. This building with an approximate area of 32000 square meters was built with just 10 percentage of the costs of ventilation normally required for the region, 35 percent less costs for energy requirements, and also about 10 percent lesser typical capital costs, thus resulting in savings of about $3.5 million for the $36 million building. Various findings from the study reveal that biomimetic approaches have considerable potential in energy and resource management and utilization, and achieving sustainable development in the construction sector.
Performance evaluation of Trombe wall systems in enhancing thermal comfort in residential buildings of Subtropical highland climate - A case of Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Manav M. , Aniket Sharma
Published: June 2024

The implementation of passive solar technology has a substantial impact on the improvement of thermal comfort in indoor environments through lower consumption of energy. is significantly influenced by the implementation of passive solar technologies. Among these, the Trombe wall stands out as a viable option due to its simplicity and seamless integration with buildings, enabling both heating and cooling functionalities. To enhance thermal comfort in existing residential structures in Hamirpur, this research primarily focuses on evaluating the thermal efficiency of two different Trombe wall systems, the simple Trombe wall, and the modified Trombe wall. Firstly, A total of 11 case study buildings, representing conventional and traditional residential structures, were chosen within the Subtropical highland climate (Cwa) zone as sample cases. On-site measurements were taken and data was collected using a survey questionnaire to record thermal comfort parameters for defining the neutral comfort range of the residents. To ascertain the total discomfort hours during both heating and cooling design days throughout the year, simulation studies were conducted utilizing the Design Builder software. for varying Trombe wall design parameters including Trombe wall area, channel depth, inlet-outlet size, and glazing properties. Based on the results of extensive simulations, design guidelines for the Trombe wall in residential buildings were proposed.
Relocation of plastic hinge in steel beam using Shape Memory Alloy
Authors: Jadhav R V , Bajoria K M , Mane A M , Mane S D , Patil A D
Published: June 2024

Steel framed structures with different types of frames are very widely used in low and midrise buildings around the world. Among all the steel frames moment resisting frames (MRF) are most popular ones which can provide large clear spans as bracing systems are absent in these types of frames. The study of past seismic events implies that the connections are vulnerable under lateral seismic loads. As bracings are not provided in moment resisting frames, the main components which support the lateral loads in the frame are the beam column connections. The failure prone critical location in steel frames is the beam column connection having possibility of brittle failure. To avoid this, efforts are being taken to shift the position of plastic hinge from beam column junction. In this research a new composite beam of NiTi and Steel is developed which absorb the dynamic load and develops a pseudo hinge in NTi Material. This avoids the damage at junction under seismic load. On unloading after the seismic event the yielding developed in NiTi in the beam gets recovered and beam regains the original shape. This happens due to the special property of NiTi, which is known as super elasticity. This is a stress induced property in which material sustains the loads because of superelasticity. The performance of this novel connection is compared with steel connection. The NiTi connection shows superior performance showing 80-95 % recovery.
Quantifying the impact of earthquakes on urban energy consumption and carbon emissions in Tokyo from a nexus perspective
Authors: Hu Xujie , Yan Wanglin
Published: June 2024

Unexpected events can have profound impacts on urban resource supply and consumption. The Great East Japan Earthquake (3.11 hereafter) triggered not only the planned blackout in the Tokyo Metropolitan Region soon after the disaster but also the energy shift to fossil fuels to recover from the disfunction of Fukushima nuclear power plants. Previous research has mainly focused on the direct energy consumption and carbon emissions of different sectors while the intensity and extensity of the impact on industries and the environment have never been empirically addressed. This study explores energy-use efficiency and carbon emissions in Tokyo from 2011 to 2015 through a lens of nexus using environmentally extended input-output analysis and community-wide carbon analytic approaches. Results show that the energy consumption is the largest exporter and importer of carbon emissions, whereas energy losses and carbon emissions caused by energy conversion and transmission are almost twice as much as those caused by the direct parts. Strong nexus effects among building and material, transportation, and energy consumption were observed. The 3.11 greatly impacted the energy structure and carbon emission patterns because of the increased consumption of coal for electricity. The share of energy consumption and carbon emissions by raw materials for construction also increased because of the increased demand for the reparation and reconstruction of buildings and transport systems. This structural change provided new scientific evidence for governments to implement decarbonization policies while preparing for unprecedented events.
Effect of aging treatment on microstructure and corrosion properties of Al-Cu-Mn-Si-Mg-Er-Zr alloy
Authors: Ma Chenxi , Rong Li , Wei Wu , Chen Jiongshen , Wang Meng , Wang Zezhong , Zhou Li , Wang Xiaobo , Zheng Zhihao , Huang Hui
Published: June 2024

The microstructure, mechanical properties and intergranular corrosion resistance of Al-Cu-Mn-Si-Mg-Er-Zr alloy with squeeze casting in the peak aging state at different temperatures were studied. The alloy was aged at 165 °C, 175 °C and 185 °C, and reached peak aging at 18 h, 12 h and 8 h respectively, among them, the alloy treated with 175 °C/12 h aging has the highest hardness, reaching 149 HV, and the yield strength is also the highest, which is 387 MPa. It is because the Q phase precipitated during the aging process of the alloy provides a heterogeneous nucleation site for the θ′ phase, the average size of the θ′ phase is 73.38 nm. The intergranular corrosion depth of the alloy after aging treatment at 175 °C/12 h was the deepest, reaching 284.91μm. At this time, the width of precipitation-free zone(PFZ) is the widest in the grain boundary microstructure, which is 92.21 nm, and the grain boundary precipitation phase is continuously distributed.
Machine learning system for commercial banana harvesting
Authors: Hayat Ahatsham , Baglat Preety , Mendonça Fábio , Mostafa Sheikh Shanawaz , Morgado-Dias Fernando
Published: June 2024

The conventional process of visual detection and manual harvesting of the banana bunch has been a known problem faced by the agricultural industry. It is a laborious activity associated with inconsistency in the inspection and grading process, leading to post-harvest losses. Automated fruit harvesting using computer vision empowered by deep learning could significantly impact the visual inspection process domains, allowing consistent harvesting and grading. To achieve the goal of the industry-level harvesting process, this work collects data from professional harvesters from the industry. It investigates six state-of-the-art architectures to find the best solution. 2,685 samples were collected from four different sites with expert opinions from industry harvesters to cut (or harvest) and keep (or not harvest) the banana brunch. Comparative results showed that the DenseNet121 architecture outperformed the other examined architectures, reaching a precision, recall, F1 score, accuracy, and specificity of 85%, 82%, 82%, 83%, and 83%, respectively. In addition, an understanding of the underlying black box nature of the solution was visualized and found adequate. This visual interpretation of the model supports human expert’s criteria for harvesting. This system can assist or replace human experts in the field.
Conclusion
Authors: Alami Ilias , Dixon Adam D
Published: June 2024

In recapping the key arguments of the book, this chapter emphasizes its contribution to new state capitalism debates and related literatures, from state theory to the international political economy of state transformations, and the role of the state in global production and financial networks, and discusses future research avenues. The chapter then asks: ‘how will state capitalism shape our near future?’ and offers a series of provisional arguments and speculative hypotheses. It identifies the seeds of possible future transformations contained within our state capitalist present, and discusses them with respect to neoliberalism, climate change, and the future of capitalism as a mode of production. Neoliberalism is already evolving new mutants in reaction to state capitalism. In an age of catastrophic climate warming and environmental breakdown, the new state capitalism is not only here to stay, but its presence might be felt throughout the world economy like never before in recent capitalist history. This could lead to a qualitative change, that is, a deeper mutation in the form of the state and its relation to capital. The spectre of state capitalism is the hypothesis that the cumulative combination of resurgent state ownership and ramped up statism, while not aimed at transforming the social property relations of capitalist society, may inadvertently end up doing so, with consequences for the nature of global capitalism, patterns of class formation, and the socialization of capital, production, and private labour. The chapter closes the book by identifying potential openings for progressive and emancipatory politics.
Socioeconomic disadvantage and racial/ethnic disparities in low-risk cesarean birth in California
Authors: Bane Shalmali , Mujahid Mahasin S , Main Elliot K , Carmichael Suzan L
Published: June 2024

Our objective was to assess the relationship of socioeconomic disadvantage and race/ethnicity with low-risk cesarean birth. We examined birth certificates (2007-2018) linked with maternal hospitalization data from California; the outcome was cesarean birth among low-risk deliveries (ie, nulliparous, term, singleton, vertex [NTSV]). We used generalized estimation equation Poisson regression with an interaction term for race/ethnicity (n = 7 groups) and a measure of socioeconomic disadvantage (census tract–level neighborhood deprivation index, education, or insurance). Among 1 815 933 NTSV births, 26.6% were by cesarean section. When assessing the joint effect of race/ethnicity and socioeconomic disadvantage among low-risk births, risk of cesarean birth increased with socioeconomic disadvantage for most racial/ethnic groups, and disadvantaged Black individuals had the highest risks. For example, Black individuals with a high school education or less had a risk ratio of 1.49 (95% CI, 1.45-1.53) relative to White individuals with a college degree. The disparity in risk of cesarean birth between Black and White individuals was observed across all strata of socioeconomic disadvantage. Asian American and Hispanic individuals had higher risks than White individuals at lower socioeconomic disadvantage; this disparity was not observed at higher levels of disadvantage. Black individuals have a persistent, elevated risk of cesarean birth relative to White individuals, regardless of socioeconomic disadvantage.
346 Planning for growth: occupational hygiene capability
Authors: Alesbury Roger
Published: June 2024

ILO estimates that each year a total of 160 million new cases of work-related illness occur globally (35 million due to exposure to chemicals) and 2 million lives are lost to occupational disease (3% of all deaths).

How do we as a community grow the occupational hygiene skill base to manage this risk?

In 2006, concerned at the slow growth in occupational hygiene capability, a group of senior occupational hygienists with global reach met to consider options. Their report was circulated widely and presented at International Conferences and IOHA and National Association meetings. With input and contributions from across the world, a series of modular training packages were developed. In 2009, the Occupational Hygiene Training Association (OHTA) was formed to run this program under the IOHA umbrella.

This talk will cover how OHTA evolved, what it offers and how it complements and supports other programmes to develop and grow occupational hygiene capability. For the last 15 years, its resources have been used by occupational hygienists across the world for the training and development of the next generation of occupational hygienists.

As OHTA enters the next phase of its evolution, hear latest developments and how you can become part of this program “Uniting Occupational Hygiene Professionals at a Global level to protect worker health”
28 IOHA National accreditation recognition certification program development template and guideline
Authors: Fuller Thomas
Published: June 2024

The National Accreditation Recognition (NAR) Committee establishes a process and criteria to recognize national occupational hygiene associations who offer certification examinations for the profession. The goal is to promote global respect for and recognition of Occupational Hygiene Certification Programs which meet or exceed the IOHA Model Certification Program requirements. Although some preliminary guidance is provided to potential applicants on the NAR Committee webpage, the development of required procedures and documents can be a daunting endeavor. This session will provide a guideline or template for proposed policies and programs that can be used as a model or roadmap for organizations considering the creation of a certification exam and program. Even members of national credentialing organizations who are already NAR Committee recognized can benefit by attending this topical session where innovations and new methodologies for examination and program implementation will be presented and discussed.
29 Survey of occupational hygiene professional practice in spanish-speaking countries
Authors: Fuller Thomas
Published: June 2024

Professional credentialing schemes based on experience and examination are used to clarify the scope and required competencies associated with the practice of a profession. To date there is no certification scheme for occupational hygienists in Spanish speaking regions. To fill this void a new credentialing body has been created called the Iberoamerican Board of Occupational Hygiene (JIHO). As a first step to the development of a certification exam for it was necessary to determine the interest in an occupational hygiene certification exam in Spanish and to clarify the most common work practices for those working in the profession. To determine the proper exam weightings for occupational hygiene competencies needed to practice in Spanish-speaking regions JIHO conducted a comprehensive survey of professional practice of occupational hygiene in nations where Spanish is spoken as the primary language. Surveys were sent to 456 practicing occupational hygienists in 9 different countries on a variety of topics. Results indicated that 86% of respondents felt a strong need for an OH certification exam in Spanish. The most frequent and important technical competencies utilized in practice were indicated as 1) awareness about the health effects of hazardous agents to make decisions about workplace activities and worker exposures, and 2) the application of the hierarchy of controls, control banding, hazard communication, training of employees and other methods to reduce worker exposure and workplace risks. The study results have been used to guide the weighting and importance of various technical topics and rubrics on the JIHO exam.
63 How to influence worker health protection through effective communication
Authors: Kirby Margaret
Published: June 2024

Background

A key part of the role of occupational hygienists is about communicating information on health hazards and controls which are needed to protect worker health. How we communicate is evolving in line with the changing world of work, and the increase in remote work. Research shows that email and text-based communication is often overestimated in terms of its influence and impact. According to the research, only 15% of our communication success is due to our technical knowledge, and 85% is due to our skill in communicating, negotiating and leading.

Aim

This talk outlines why worker health communication can often go wrong or not gain the buy in or support which is required. It will outline new thoughts and new ways of communicating which will win people over to the way you would like them to perceive health hazards, risk and controls. It will enable you to arouse enthusiasm among your work colleagues to want to support occupational hygiene measures. It will also increase your influence and your ability to get things done.

Methods

This creative and engaging talk demonstrates through factual evidence, historical references, and real-life scenarios where worker health communication has failed and why. It outlines a set of fundamental principles to follow which will revolutionise how worker health protection information is communicated in order to get the best out of people, and positively influence risk perception and behaviours.

Outcomes

Delegates will learn the fundamental principles when communicating on worker health protection and exponentially increase their influence and success within the workplace and beyond.
71 Exploring boundaries of work environment management using work domain analysis
Authors: Suleiman Abdulqadir Mohamad
Published: June 2024

Background

Work environment regulations identify specific objectives that employers must fulfil. Work environment is a multidimensional concept encompassing nature of tasks, physical and social conditions, workplace characteristics and organisation, work schedule, prospects to the workers, and the intrinsic rewards associated with the work. Through work domain analysis, the first of the five dimensions of cognitive work analysis, the study explored the boundaries of work environment management.

Method

Mixed method including looking at regulatory requirements, a limited literature review and comprehensive discourse with occupational safety and health enforcement officials as subject matter experts provided the information to populate the abstraction decomposition space in the analysis. Affordances of the regulation purposes formed the functional purposes of the work environment management. Work environment indicators identified formed the value and priorities measures. Purpose-related functions were constructed from a work environment model, with subject matter experts providing the relevant physical resources and the functions the resources afford.

Results

Abstraction decomposition space for work environment management was designed showing means-ends links from resources to the purposes they fulfil in the system. From the abstraction decomposition space, it was possible to design results-chain models supporting decision-making. The analysis showed that the functional purposes can be fulfilled with different means-ends pathways. In addition, the purpose-related functions constructions allowed for superimposing of enforcement orders from earlier inspections reports, supporting the validity of the constructs.

Conclusion

The study provided structure and content of work environment management, and decision-making models supporting the management practices and strengthening attainment of justifiable work environment.
84 Realtime versus conventional sampler comparison study
Authors: Walsh Ben , Cattani Marcus , Verpaele Steven
Published: June 2024

With the increasing sophistication of real time sampling devices, research to objectively assess their performance is a priority. The International Sampling Comparison Group has embarked on a series of projects in association with other research groups. In Australia, a workplace sampler comparison study has commenced the collection of conventional and real time samples of inhalable and respirable dust, from host sites in the West Australian iron ore mining industry. The selected samplers are placed on a specially designed Workplace Atmosphere Multisampler (WAM) device which can host up to 12 samplers simultaneously, rotating at 3 revolutions a minute to reduce sampling biases. In this paper we report on the initial findings of matched pairs of each sampler, run for a minimum of 6 hours, over 28 sample days, which generated 168 matched pair data points. In addition, a particle size impactor, and bulk dust samples were collected to determine the particle size fraction. Data was collected with a trained and experienced occupational hygiene technician in accordance with recognised standards. Results will be presented from a series of conventional versus real time or near real time devices including HazDust 7204 with Inhalable Inlet, TSI AM520 with Respirable dust Cyclone, IOM + Foam plug PVC, Zephon disposable + Foam plug PVC, UPAS v2+ direct reading sampler + 37mm filter, and the Marple 8 stage Impactor.
112 An alternative to the HSE/NPL phase contrast test slide for airborne asbestos fibre analysis laboratories
Authors: Pickford Geoff , Hibbs Philip
Published: June 2024

More than 55 years ago, an analytical technique employing phase contrast microscopy was developed for the quantitative estimation of airborne asbestos fibre concentration.

It was found that the detection limit of these microscopes was dependent upon microscope design, set-up and observer performance. In the late 1970’s the HSE/NPL Phase-Contrast Test Slide was developed that facilitated the standardisation of detection limits of microscopes and observers in laboratories around the world.

An alternative test slide has now been developed using state of the art nano-metre fabrication technology, and is known as the Pickford Phase Contrast Test Slide, and manufactured by PhaseSlides.

Both subjective and newly developed objective visibility testing show that the Pickford Test Slide is equivalent to the HSE/NPL Test Slide, and users report it to be much easier to use.

Each Pickford Test Slide is certified by the Environmental Analytical Laboratory of the Southern Cross University – stating that it is equivalent in performance to that of the HSE/NPL test slide.

Acknowledgement to the BOHS Annals of Work Exposures and Health.
128 Assessing potential health risks from multi-exposure to chemicals in U.S. workplaces: findings from the OSHA database
Authors: Sarazin Philippe , Sauvé Jean-François , Labrèche France , Ho Vikki , Pomerleau Maude , Bosson-Rieutort Delphine , Lavoué Jérôme
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The combined effects of occupational exposure to multiple chemicals on health can be substantial. However, the most prevalent multi-exposure situations and their toxic effects remain understudied. We assessed the health risks from multi-exposure to chemicals in U.S. workplaces using the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) measurement database.

Methods

We analysed personal air measurements for the period 1971-2021 summarized by workplace situation (WS), corresponding to measurements taken for the same job title, within a company, within a year. We calculated hazard quotients (HQ) by dividing the agents’ concentrations by their ACGIH® threshold limit value. We calculated the mixtures’ hazard indices (HI) by summing the HQs of agents by combination of WS and toxicological class (n=24) using the MiXie tool, which identifies classes of toxic effects for >700 chemicals.

Results

We extracted 609,233 measurements of 206 chemicals from 162,473 WSs. Workers in 58,252 WSs were exposed to ≥2 agents, of which 21,563 had an HI>1, indicating overexposure for at least one toxicological class. Toxicological classes with the highest HIs among multi-exposed WSs were lower airway damage (median 0.41; interquartile interval 0.05-1.9; percentage of overexposed WSs 35%), ototoxicity (0.28; 0.04-1.1; 26%) and central nervous system (CNS) damage (0.26; 0.02-1.2; 28%). For these three classes respectively, the most frequent multi-exposures leading to high values of HI were manganese-iron oxides, toluene-xylene and manganese-lead.

Conclusions

Although the OSHA database does not necessarily represent a random sample of U.S. workplaces, our approach provides insights into the health risks of occupational exposures to prevalent chemical mixtures.
184 Lessons learnt from cross contamination/gradient study across pharmaceutical formulation sites
Authors: Kondragunta Prasanth , Bandaru Chand
Published: June 2024

Cross contamination in pharmaceutical industry is a serious issue which can affect the quality and safety of drugs. Methods for conducting the Cross-contamination study, identifying potential routes of contamination and results from the swab and air samples will be presented. The evaluation criteria for the cross contamination study involves calculating the potential contamination in a maximum daily dose of one product and compare it with Permissible Daily Exposure (PDE) values. Key recommendations related to management of ventilation systems and work practices to minimize the cross-contamination will be shared.
185 The influence of measurement uncertainty and environmental factors in the assessment of workplace exposure
Authors: Emonds Robert , Scheffers Theo
Published: June 2024

According to good occupational hygiene practices, measurement uncertainty (U) should be included when testing TWA workplace atmosphere measurement against OEL.

In some countries such as the US (OSHA) and Belgium, this is included in legislation: law enforcement tests the TWA lower confidence limit LCL=TWA*(1-U) exceedance of the OEL while employers test the TWA upper confidence limit UCL=TWA*(1+U) compliance with the OEL.

International standards such as EN482 and ISO-20581 help establish U, UCL and LCL.

Current exposure assessment strategies promoted by IOHA members, such as AIHA (2015), EN689 (2018) and BOSH/NVvA (2022), ignore measurement uncertainty.

This may be due to historical work (Nicas, 1991), which shows that in similar exposure groups (SEG), lognormal long-term daily environmental variability exceeds U.

However, Monte-Carlo simulations, which will be shown in this lecture, show that the influence of U on the lognormal, one-sided upper confidence limit of the 95th percentile (UTL95,##%) can be significant in occupational hygiene practice with sample sizes often smaller than n=6.

Also in the last decade, several strategies promote a simplified screening/preliminary test (French Code du Travail, EN689:2018 §5.5.2, BOSH/NVvA 2011/2022).

In these tests, the highest result (TWAmax) of 3 to 5 measurements is compared with the OEL or with a defined fraction f(OEL).

In line with the above, these TWAmax tests should use TWAmax*(1-U) ≤ f(OEL) for compliance and TWAmax*(1+U) > OEL for exceedance.

IOHA member organisations are advised not only to align the numerical test schedules for compliance, but also to include measurement uncertainty in the OEL tests.
190 Safety stewardship of enzymes: reaching cleaning professionals with risk management guidance for professionals and their employees
Authors: Panepinto Anthony , Simonsen Merete
Published: June 2024

Professional cleaning products are used in a wide variety of situations, from cleaning of private and public facilities such as hospitals, offices, hotels, restaurants, care homes and public transport, to cleaning of workplaces and industrial process involved in the manufacturing of foods, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and others. For many years enzymes have been used safely as a functional ingredient in consumer products such as laundry detergents and are widely in professional products for bulk laundering of fabrics and clothing from the manufacturing, healthcare and service industries. Enzymes have also been used in niche professional products such as solutions for cleaning endoscopes, and specialized drain and surface cleaners.

Enzymes have a very good safety profile but, as with many other proteins, they can act as respiratory sensitizers and so may lead to allergy symptoms, such as rhinitis. In order to better address safe use across small and medium enterprises the AISE (International Association for Soaps,

Detergents and Maintenance Products), the ACI (American Cleaning Institute), the HCPA (Household and Commercial Products) and enzyme suppliers joined forces to create guidance for risk assessment and risk communication for professional cleaners.

Attendees at this discussion will develop an understanding of the risk, risk management measures, and critical risk communication topics to be discussed with employers of professional products users and employees working with enzyme containing professional products themselves.
198 Conceptualization and construction of a low-cost and self-made device for monitoring of particulate matter
Authors: Fanti Giacomo , Borghi Francesca , Cauda Emanuiele , Wolfe Cody , Patts Justin , Dossi Carlo , Cattaneo Andrea , Spinazzè Andrea , Cavallo Domenico Maria
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study is to present a step-by-step process that walks through the conceptualization and building of a low-cost (~ $150) monitoring device for airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5), based on miniaturized sensors and components.

Methodology

Details on the implementation of the hardware and software are provided which facilitate the data acquisition and analysis. The central components and their setup discussed in what follows include: the sensor device (called “P.ALP” – Ph.D. Air quality Low-cost Project), Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) and R code (open-access software). The devices were tested for accuracy and precision under controlled conditions (type of dust, dust concentrations, temperature, relative humidity) using an aerosol testing chamber (Marple design).

Results

A monitoring device for PM2.5, based on low-cost sensors and technologies was successfully conceptualized, designed, and implemented. The preliminary tests showed promising results in detecting dust concentration variability and satisfying performances in terms of data storage and operating time.

Conclusions

The P.ALP monitoring system was designed and developed to be a basic device, which can be further customized and implemented using the wide range of low-cost sensors available on the market.
200 Adapting the BOHS COVID-19 risk matrix to Avian Influenza. Preparing an animal charity for future outbreaks
Authors: Cameron Mary
Published: June 2024

Based on a similar exercise carried out by the BOHS in 2020 during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. The BOHS COVID-19 risk matrix was adapted to provide an animal charity with an Avian Influenza (AI) risk management tool. The charity staff handle sick and dead birds in the wild (symptoms of AI may not be immediately apparent) and at their animal treatment and housing centres. This tool guides the employer in determining appropriate control measures to help reduce the risk of their staff, and also the public, from being infected with AI.

Although there is currently limited evidence of transference to humans and the risk appears to be low, this could change in the not too distant future. Cross species infections are predicted to increase with the habitat pressures brought about by climate change. Therefore this AI risk matrix has been developed as a precautionary approach. The approach recognises the pitfalls of reliance on PPE alone and endeavours to promote a preventative approach built on good occupational hygiene practice. Given the variety and complexity of the workplace, the AI risk matrix provides an initial reference for control measures, risk evaluation, and grouped job roles to help the employer make balanced decisions and decide what are the reasonable precautions.

Acknowledgements-

Authors of the BOHS COVID-19 risk matrix

Kelvin Williams BSc(Hons) DipOH CFFOH

Dr Mangala Patil-Mead
214 A proposed Asian occupational exposure limit framework
Authors: Park Dooyong
Published: June 2024

Occupational exposure limits (OELs) are key tools in occupational hygiene to protect workers who may be exposed to health hazards in their workplace. Typically OELs are given a single value for 8 hr-TWA, 15 min STEL or Ceiling. Although it is suggested that these values are not the fine lines between safe and unsafe, they are generally perceived as the fine lines of whether it is acceptable in the fields.

If a worker’s exposure exceeds the OELs, employers and employees hardly know how dangerous it is by simply comparing it with OELs. For example, if the exposure level is 1.2X OELs, the exposure numerically exceeds 20% above the OELs. However, it does not mean that it is dangerous as much of 20%. It would be very dangerous for certain chemicals but might not be so dangerous for others.

Therefore, it should not be used by anyone untrained in the discipline of industrial hygiene. However, in many workplaces, like SMEs, accessibility to trained industrial hygienists is very limited. On the contrary, it increases the accessibility of self-measurement techniques such as sensors and direct reading instruments. In addition, it might be impractical to provide a single value as an OEL to different countries and/or regions and/or industries if economic feasibility considered.

Thus, Asian Network of Occupational Hygiene (ANOH) developed a New Asian Occupational Exposure Limit Framework, which provide 3 levels; ideal, recommended and maximum for each health hazards. Background, Rationale and Development of ANOH-OEL Framework will be presented.
227 Protection of workers against carcinogenic fibre dusts – A Risk Management Option Analysis
Authors: Bachmann Volker , Heunisch Elisabeth , Kohns Kevin , Lüdeke Andreas , Müller Melanie , Pohl Anna , Stemmler Fabian , Walendzik Gudrun
Published: June 2024

The adverse health effects of biopersistent fibrous dusts with critical morphology (length greater than 5 µm, diameter smaller than 3 µm and a length-to-diameter ratio of more than 3:1 (WHO fibre criterion)) are independent of their chemical composition. Due to these dimensions, such fibres are able to reach the deep lungs (alveoli and bronchioles) after inhalation and can cause fibrosis and cancer. A well-known example of the toxicity of fibres and their possible harmful effects is asbestos. Health hazards arising from the inhalation of biopersistent fibre dusts released from chemical substances, mixtures or from articles, will most likely not be identified in the chemical safety assessment under REACH, even if a substance is registered, as there is no obligation to provide information on the morphology and/ or form and biopersistence of the substance.

The German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment have identified and evaluated regulatory approaches for the protection against carcinogenic fibre dusts by means of a risk management option analysis (RMOA). The RMOA discusses various options to address the concerns identified, including the introduction of additional risk management options within the framework of European chemical safety and occupational health. As a result of the RMOA a restriction under REACH was identified as the most appropriate approach for regulating fibrous materials and to enhance the protection of workers in the EU.
137a - Breathe freely initiative to prevent occupational lung disease – Canadian and US rollout
Authors: McInnis Jason
Published: June 2024

Breathe Freely is a British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS) initiative aimed at reducing occupational lung disease in the UK, which causes significant debilitating ill-health and an estimated 13,000 deaths per year in the UK. Breathe Freely is about raising awareness of both the problem and how to do something about it: we can protect workers’ health and prevent most of these diseases and deaths. It is not just “the right thing to do”, it is good for business as well. Broad acceptance of this fundamental concept is part of the solution.

Thanks to the support and collaboration of the BOHS, both the AIHA construction committee (US) and CRBOH (Canada) have taken steps to introduce Breathe Freely in their respective countries. This session will delve into the core objectives of Breathe Freely and provide updates on its implementation progress in Canada and the United States.
148a - Can we translate low-cost sensing from the air pollution community to the workplace hygiene community?
Authors: Loh Miranda
Published: June 2024

‘Low-cost sensors’ have transformed outdoor air quality monitoring by increasing the pool of data available. These size and cost of these sensors give the average citizen the ability to measure air pollution on a personal basis, in the places that matter to them. While scientists and governments may have been cautious about the quality of such data at the beginning, there are now more evaluation studies and government initiatives to provide guidance around use of these sensors. Local governments are also installing these sensors as supplementary tools for monitoring air quality. This presentation explores the evolution of low-cost sensor use in environmental applications and whether and how this may translate into their use in occupational hygiene. Barriers and facilitators towards use of these sensors in hygiene will be discussed.
222b - Relevant information and challenges for human biomonitoring
Authors: Wrobel Sonja
Published: June 2024

Human biomonitoring (HBM) has proven to be a useful tool to perform risk assessment of chemicals. Nevertheless, certain criteria for a reliable HBM should be taken into account. Knowledge regarding the suitability of the chosen biological matrix, as well as the specificity and sensitivity of biomarkers is essential. For a specific HBM, the biomarker must not be formed from other substances with expected exposures. The sensitivity of the biomarker depends on the aim of the study with higher sensitivities needed for the investigation of background exposures in the general population, compared to verifying the adherence to health-based guidance values (e.g., in an occupational context). Furthermore, aspects of analytical ruggedness of the biomarkers need to be considered, such as susceptibility to pre-analytical contamination. To obtain valid HBM results, analytical methods for these biomarkers need to be sufficiently sensitive, selective, and rugged and need to be applied under quality-assured conditions.

In this presentation, the choice of a reliable biomarker will be discussed using practical examples.
222c - Human biomonitoring of neonicotinoid insecticides in environmental and occupational settings
Authors: Doherty Darragh
Published: June 2024

Neonicotinoid insecticides and neonicotinoid-like compounds (NNIs) are the most widely used insecticides in the world, accounting for over 25% of the insecticide market. In recent years, NNIs have been identified as potential hazards to humans and are included in chemical priority lists in the European Union, the United States, and Canada.

However, NNIs such as acetamiprid and flupyradifurone, are still widely used as plant protection products throughout the EU. Additionally, imidacloprid is still used as a flea treatment for cats, dogs and other pets. Human biomonitoring allows for a quantitative assessment of internal chemical exposures by analysing biological media. Despite growing concern about the hazardous properties of NNIs, there have only been a few human biomonitoring (HBM) studies investigating NNI exposures conducted in the EU and none in Ireland. The EIRE ‘nEonicotinoid Insecticide exposuREs’ project is a human biomonitoring study investigating exposures to NNIs among the general population and occupational users of NNIs in Ireland.

Urine samples from the general Irish population (n=227) were analysed for seven major NNIs using LC-MS/MS Of those samples, 76% had quantifiable levels of at least one NNI, indicating a potential for widespread exposure of NNIs among the Irish population. An occupational study of professional gardeners and pet shelter workers who use NNIs will commence in 2024.

Preliminary results from the general Irish population study and the recruitment strategy for the occupational studies of professional gardeners and pet shelter workers will be presented.
228a - How can biomonitoring support occupational hygiene in a further reduction of exposure to hexavalent chromium? – Results from the HBM4EU chromate study
Authors: Scheepers Paul
Published: June 2024

Occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr6) deserves attention because of the evidence for an associated health risk, including cancer. As part of HBM4EU a study was conducted with the main aim to find out what biomonitoring can add to further improve work practices to reduce exposure to Cr6. In 2019, a cross-sectional study was carried out in 399 chrome workers and 203 controls in nine European countries. Total chromium (TCr) blood and urine was measured and TCr in erythrocytes was used as a measure of intracellular Cr6. Cr3 and Cr6 were analysed in inhalable and respirable dust collected from the breathing zone and for the assessment of dermal exposure hand wipes were collected. The biomonitoring results showed that production workers were higher exposed than controls. The highest exposures were found in chrome plating. Urinary TCr was associated with inhalation Cr6 exposure in a group of 57 plating workers (Spearman’s correlation coefficient of 0.783). An air concentration of 1 µg Cr6/m3 in the breathing zone corresponds to approx. 2 µg TCr/g creatinine in urine. Mechanisation of chrome baths was associated with lower TCr levels in urine compared to manual operation. An association was observed between TCr contamination on the hands and urinary TCr. Storing (used) work cloths in lockers was associated with higher urine TCr. In conclusion, biomonitoring results indicate that Cr6 can also be absorbed via other and indirect routes than (only) inhalation. There may be opportunities for occupational hygiene interventions leading to a further reduction of exposure to Cr6.

Presented on behalf of the HBM4EU occupational study project team.
315c - Control of exposure to aircraft emissions at airports
Authors: Terwoert, Jeroen
Published: June 2024

Workers at airports may be exposed to the exhaust of both Diesel Engine Emissions (DEE) from a wide variety of equipment, such as ground power units and tow trucks, as well as to Aircraft Engine Exhaust (AEE). Workers on the ramps where aircraft are parked, unloaded or loaded, refuelled and boarded may be particularly highly exposed. Particle number concentrations of up to several 100.000/cm3 over several hours and up to several millions/cm3 during short term peaks were measured.

Effective control of exposure to AEE is a complex issue. While DEE is a formally WHO IARC-classified carcinogen, for AEE this is less clear, and specific literature is relatively scarce. This affects the extent of employers’ obligations to minimise exposure. Early investigations of the literature show that AEE contain various components that are formally classified carcinogens, in relatively low amounts. This means, that limiting the exposure as much as possible is desirable. Options for control measures include for example the use of electric powered aircraft facilities, implementation of emission-free taxiing (by electric equipment), departure procedures in which the jet stream towards ramp workers is prevented, departure procedures in which the distance between aircraft engines and ramp workers is maximized, and procedures that prevent unnecessarily long running main jet engines close to the gate. Potential divers and bottle-necks for these measures will be presented.
381c - The Physical Activity Health Paradox: Is physical activity at work health enhancing?
Authors: Quinn, Tyler
Published: June 2024

Emerging evidence has suggested a ‘Physical Activity Health Paradox’ where occupational physical activity may be harmful for cardiovascular health which is in contrast to the health enhancing effects of physical activity during leisure time. Such a paradox would have significant implications for physical activity recommendations, surveillance, research, and workplace health promotion practices, especially for workers accumulating high amounts of physical activity at work. This talk will deliver the state of the science on the physical activity health paradox, highlight existing research gaps, and discuss implications for future research and practice. Specific discussion will include an overview of the foundational epidemiological evidence suggesting paradoxical cardiovascular health risks from occupational physical activity as well as discuss hypotheses and supporting empirical evidence on explanatory physiological mechanisms. The talk will conclude by highlighting the implications on workplace health practice, research, surveillance, and guidelines.
43 Airborne proteins - A new specific marker for occupational exposure in the food industry?
Authors: Darbakk Christine , Olsen Raymond , Graff Pål
Published: June 2024

Workers in the food industry are exposed to a wide range of substances that might elicit immunological reactions leading to occupational diseases such as rhinitis and asthma. It’s challenging to regulate the occupational exposure due to the wide variety of components present in these work environments.

Gravimetric measurements have served as the foundation for the occupational exposure limits (OEL) for these exposures. However, gravimetric measurements do not consider which compounds that are present in the dust and will thus also include harmless substances such as sugar dust. It is difficult to carry out preventive work in the food industry for occupational health services and enterprises when there is a lack of knowledge about both the degree and content of dust exposure. A more precise OEL for the food industry to better describe exposure and enable evidence-based risk assessments is therefore needed.

This project will provide new knowledge about the relationship between the amount of inhalable dust and the amount of total inhalable protein present in air in connection with various types of food production. In addition, the study will provide new knowledge about the relationship between the amount of dust, total protein, total inflammatory potential of the dust and specific allergens where possible. The study’s findings will make it easier for companies to prioritize where exposure-reducing measures should be implemented. In the long term, the findings may help to replace the current unspecified gravimetric exposure limits in the food industry with better and more specific OELs.