bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
138 Boosting effectiveness of cytotoxic drug exposure controls in an Australian compounding pharmacy
Authors: Patel Ritesh
Published: June 2024

Managing exposure to cytotoxic drugs is difficult because of high toxicity and lack of health-based exposure limits. Cytotoxic drugs are often prepared and supplied to hospitals by compounding pharmacies. These pharmacies often use a combination of cytotoxic drug safety cabinets (CDSC), respiratory protective equipment (RPE), disposable coveralls, and gloves to reduce the risk of exposure. However, work practices play a crucial role in the overall effectiveness of these controls. We assessed the impact of enhanced work practices on the effectiveness of these controls.

We reviewed the work practices through direct observations and took surface wipe samples for Cyclophosphamide before and after the recommended improvements to evaluate the impact. The surface wipe samples were taken from the CDSC and compounding room (red zone), the secondary change room (yellow), and the control areas (green). We compared the results with the respective adopted performance-based surface limits (PBSLs).

Before improvements, the cyclophosphamide levels in each zone and on the reusable RPE exceeded the PBSLs. The cyclophosphamide levels ranged between <0.003 and 2.3 µg/100 cm2, with the highest level inside the CDSC. After improvements, the cyclophosphamide levels ranged between <0.003 and 0.3 µg/100 cm2, and there was no exceedance of PBSLs.

The work practices are crucial to the effectiveness of the CDSC and personal protective equipment for handling cytotoxic drugs. Surface wipe sampling is a handy tool for evaluating work practices. In addition, we recommend monitoring cyclophosphamide levels in the urine to determine the overall effectiveness of controls.
157 Occupational chemical JEM development within the European Job-Exposure Matrix (EuroJEM), EU Exposome Project for Health and Occupational Research (EPHOR)
Authors: Wiebert Pernilla , Xu Yiyi , Koponen Milja , Uuksulainen4 Sanni , Notø Hilde , Turner Michelle , Santibañez Miguel , Pilorget Corinne , Peters Susan , Schlünssen Vivi , Basinas Ioannis , Ge Calvin B , Selander Jenny , Albin Maria , Tinnerberg Håkan
Published: June 2024

Introduction

A first version of a European Job-exposure matrix (EuroJEM) for chemicals and particles has been developed within the EU Exposome Project for Health and Occupational Research (EPHOR). The aim was to produce an improved tool for exposure assessment for epidemiological studies on the European population. The working group includes experts on job-exposure matrices and/or occupational exposures from several European countries, including Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Netherlands, France, and Spain.

Methodology

The first version, EuroJEM1.0, includes Respirable Crystalline Silica Dust, Wood dust, Diesel Engine Exhaust (EC) and Nickel. Exposure data were obtained from JEM-holders, and occupational codes were translated into ISCO-88(COM).

Experts from the working group independently harmonized EuroJEM values from three to five JEMs for each agent. Consensus was reached during meetings. First the prevalence of exposed subjects in an occupation was assessed. In the next step a level was assigned to occupations with at least 25 % exposed workers. Nickel could not be assigned with exposure levels due to poor data quality. Regional differences in exposure have been included when indicated from the underlying data. The EuroJEM will be made publicly available.

Results

EuroJEM contains 29 occupations exposed to Respirable Crystalline Silica Dust, 12 to Wood dust and 44 to Diesel Engine Exhaust and 14 to Nickel.

Conclusions

This is the first attempt to harmonize several European JEMs to be used in European epidemiological studies on work exposure and disease. It will be linked with the EPHOR mega cohort as a next step.
169 Determining of total inward leakage of loose-fitting hooded powered air-purifying respirator using quantitative testing method
Authors: Liu Ting Yu , Lu Ping Feng , Hsu Tzu Chien , Lai Chane-Yu
Published: June 2024

Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) is gradually being widely used in many working environments. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, many powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) were used to protect against bioaerosol transmission. However, according to the fit-testing requirements of the US 29 CFR, It only applies to tight-fitting PAPRs, but not applies to loose-fitting hooded PAPRs.

The study was to test commercially available loose-fitting hooded PAPRs by using quantitative testing method. In the experimental chamber (2.0*2.0*2.1 m3), a 3M Air-Mate PAPR with S-757 high-end lined hood (Versaflo) was used to perform the fit-testing. A TSI Portacount was used to test the real-time fit factor (FF) of the volunteer male and female subjects. Positive pressure air supply was maintained in the hood, 10 steps of ISO-16900 standard exercises were performed for 20 minutes.

The results showed that when male subjects were standing still and not talking (the 10th exercise), the test achieved the highest FF value as averaged 54849; and when doing the 8th exercise (walk, speaking), the averaged FF was the lowest one, which was averaged 621. The highest FF of female subjects was averaged 776 when doing the 5th exercise (hands and knees, head rotation), and the lowest FF was averaged 184 when doing the 10th exercise (standing still). Most of the FF values of male subjects were higher than that of female subjects (up to averaged 297 times), which might be because of the head shape, hairstyle, or wearing glasses of the subjects.
195 A better way to fill exposure data gaps
Authors: Shin Mi (Jennifer) , Qian Hua , Lee Jee-Eun , Sentis Luis , Maberti Silvia
Published: June 2024

Exposure assessment is a core component of regulatory quantitative risk assessment and plays a central role in risk management. Ideally, personal exposure measurements are collected using techniques that record an individual’s direct exposures. Though this type of data is preferred, it is often lacking. In this study, we tested whether a robot could be programmed to simulate human use of spray products and then used in place of human subjects for generating air concentration data.

A robot was programmed to simulate human use of a fabric crafts protector (FCP) and a glass cleaning (GC) product. While the robot used these products, air sampling data was collected to estimate VOC concentrations. The sampling data was summarized and then compared to air concentration data found in the literature while humans used similar products.

In this study we successfully programmed a robot to mimic human use of two spray products. Average VOC concentrations were 1.57 ppm for FCP spraying and 0.17 ppm for GC spraying and wiping. Air sampling data were found to be within the range of data reported in the literature.

This study demonstrates the ability to use robots to simulate human exposures. It offers a systematic, efficient method for generating exposure data where gaps exist. This data can be used to validate or enhance models and improve health and safety risk assessments used for public health protection.
196 Exposure to inhalable, respirable and ultrafine dust from airplanes and diesel engines exhaust for airport workers in the Netherlands
Authors: Houba Remko , van der Meer Nettie , Kromhout Hans
Published: June 2024

Airport workers are exposed to aircraft and diesel engine exhaust from airport vehicles and machinery. Exposure is determined by job characteristics and job location. We conducted an extensive measurement survey among workers exposed to aircraft and diesel engine exhaust at an airport in The Netherlands. All prevailing jobs with activities on the airside of the airport were divided into 10 similar exposure groups. Approximately 300 personal samples with a sampling duration between 4-8 hours were collected during a 5-week period in August/September 2023. Measurements of inhalable dust (PAS-6 sampler), respirable dust (Higgins-Dewell cyclone) and ultrafine dust (real-time Naneos Partector 2) were carried out. During sampling workers carried GPS-loggers to identify their work locations. Inhalable dust samples will be analyzed for several metals as marker of aircraft engine exhaust. Respirable dust samples will be analyzed for elementary carbon as a marker of diesel engine exhaust. Real-time ultrafine dust will be analyzed in relation to location at the airport and peak exposures to ultrafines will be described per similar exposure group (number, frequency and peak height). In addition, exposure affecting factors for the different size fractions of exposure to engine exhaust will be identified via linear mixed models. Other exposure determining factors like e.g. weather conditions, number of flight movements, etc. will also be taken into account. The results will be used to arrive at efficient control measures to reduce workers’ exposure and will form the basis for an informative epidemiological study on respiratory health among these workers.
211 How to use reverse dosimetry to derive acceptable occupational exposure level from internal values
Authors: Hahn Stefan , Spänig Max , Escher Sylvia , Bitsch Annette
Published: June 2024

New approach methodologies (NAMs) are an integral part of Next Generation Risk Assessment (NGRA). NAMs consider in-vitro, in-silico, in-chemistry test methods. These can be linked by PBK modelling and in-vitro in-vivo extrapolation (IVIVE) to external exposure concentrations. Thus NAM-based test methods require translation from external exposure to internal exposure and vice versa. Additionally aggregated external human exposure by inhalation and dermal route will be often based on measurements or are estimated by tools usually applied under REACH. PBK modelling allows to predict chemical and metabolite concentrations over time and in relevant body compartments (human plasma and/or tissues) for given exposure scenarios (forward dosimetry). By turning around the approach (reverse dosimetry) acceptable external exposure levels (such as OEL) may be derived on internal thresholds (in-vitro effect data, compound specific threshold values, human biomonitoring data). Thereby, maximal external exposure concentrations below which human exposure is considered safe can be derived. The presentation will contain the description of the approach to derive acceptable occupational exposure levels (OELs) based on internal threshold values. The approach will be discussed with a case study to illustrate the applicability. The approach is beneficial especially for case compounds such as NMP where aggregated exposure is determined by inhalation and dermal by air.
219 Gaps in current aggregated occupational and non-occupational exposure assessment approaches
Authors: Ottenbros Ilse , Santonen Tiina , Tarazona José , Vernez David , Ge Calvin , Blassiau Clément , Crépet Amélie , Fransman Wouter
Published: June 2024

Humans are exposed to multiple stressors via various exposure routes and sources, among which occupational settings. While traditional exposure assessments focus on single chemicals or routes, combined exposures are increasingly being considered focusing on more than one source or route. An aggregated exposure assessment approach is necessary to encompass all the different sources and routes through which a single chemical may originate, from both the occupational and non-occupational environments.

Currently, there is a lack of a standardized methodology or guidance for conducting aggregated exposure assessment at a population level which consists of occupational and non-occupational exposures. It can be challenging to integrate the current occupational exposure assessment approaches with the general life exposures. Occupational aggregated exposure assessment can be conducted quantitatively based on specific work scenarios or tasks, to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, population level assessments of occupational aggregated exposures, often qualitative in nature, can be conducted to explore exposure-disease relationships in epidemiological studies. In order to incorporate occupational with non-occupational aggregated exposures, a combination the two occupational approaches (scenario-based with population-based) into a semi-quantitative population level assessment reflecting the same scale will enable an aggregated exposure assessment for the entire working population.

This combination of occupational approaches is illustrated by three different case studies performed under the PARC initiative. Aggregated occupational exposure is modelled for PFAS, pyrethroids and metals (cadmium and chromium), and plasticizers.
235 Exposure to resistant fungi across working environments
Authors: Kofoed Victor
Published: June 2024

Widespread use of antifungal agents in the environment and in clinical settings can facilitate selection for resistant fungi. In recent years, antifungal resistance has become an emerging health concern and resistant variants of previously susceptible species are increasingly reported. At present, little is known about the occupational exposure to resistant fungi in working environments. The purpose of this study was to assess the occurrence of fungi resistant to first-line treatment drugs across different working environments. A retrospective study was performed on a unique collection of personal exposure samples, obtained over a twenty-year period from various Danish working environments, including food production, agriculture, waste management, biofuel plants, and health care facilities. Samples were cultivated at 37° C and fungal colonies were identified using MALDI-TOF MS. species classified as risk group 2 organisms, were selected for resistance testing against Itraconazole, Voriconazole, Posaconazole, and Amphotericin B. Assessment of the overall fungal exposure showed high variation between working environments, with the highest exposure levels found in biofuel plants, greenhouses and grass seed production. More than 500 fungal isolates were tested for resistance, the majority of which belonged to species of Aspergillus. Acquired resistance to one or more antifungal drugs was found in 46 isolates, with the highest prevalence of resistance among isolates of Aspergillus niger. In the forthcoming period, resistant isolates will undergo DNA sequencing to elucidate the mechanism and origin of resistance. Furthermore, sequencing will enable the identification of cryptic species, which can have distinct susceptibility patterns, and thus are important to differentiate.
243 Association between safety culture and wearing of hearing protection in the workplace
Authors: McGuinn Patrick , Buggy Conor , Sripaiboonkij Penpatra
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Loud noise exposure damages hearing health. There are several strategies to protect hearing health including safety policy, providing PPE, and building safety culture. The objective of the study was to assess whether safety culture can influence the wearing of hearing protection in a noisy working environment.

Methodology

The study was based on a questionnaire survey. This was a self-reported questionnaire with two parts: demographic data and factors affecting the wearing of hearing protection. Chi-square testing was used to compare variables and to determine statistical significance. The method can be found in McGuinn et al., 2021.

Results

The research was carried out in an Irish manufacturing and mining company with a response rate of 93%. 95% of the population agreed hearing protection protects hearing. 85% agreed wear hearing protection every time in loud noise areas. Workers aged 41 to 51 agreed hearing protection can prevent deafness caused by loud noise and protect hearing. 82% agreed colleagues wear hearing protection throughout the day in loud noise areas. 78% agreed posters warn workers to wear hearing protection. 66% agreed supervisors warn workers to wear hearing protection. The behaviour of workers exposed to loud noise did not statistically change over time of employment.

Conclusions

Employees showed high adherence to using PPE and agreed that it can help protect hearing health. Workplaces with a strong safety culture had reduced absenteeism, accidents, and ultimately reduced costs to the company.

(Citation McGuinn et al., 2021. Factors influencing the use of hearing protection devices in Irish mine workers. International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Safety, 5:2, 49-59)
264 Quantitative self-assessment of exposure to solvents among formal and informal nail technicians in South Africa
Authors: Keretetse Goitsemang , Brouwer Derk , Nelson Gill
Published: June 2024

Participatory research, including self-assessment of exposure (SAE), can engage study participants and reduce costs. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility and reliability of an SAE regime among nail technicians. The study was nested in a larger study, which included exposure assessment supervised by experts, i.e., controlled assessment of exposure (CAE). In the SAE approach, ten formal and ten informal nail technicians were verbally instructed to use a passive sampler and complete an activity sheet. Each participant conducted measurements on three consecutive days, whereafter the expert collected the passive samplers. Sixty samples were thus analyzed for twenty-one volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The reported concentrations of 11 VOCs were converted into total VOC (TVOC) concentrations adjusted for their respective emission rates (adj TVOC) to allow comparison within and between nail technician categories (formal vs. informal), and assessment regimes (SAE versus CAE). In total, 57 SAE and 58 CAE results were compared, using a linear mixed-effects model. There were variations in individual VOC concentrations, especially in the informal sector. The major contributors to the adj TVOC concentrations were acetone and 2-propanol for the formal category, whereas ethyl- and methyl methacrylate contributed most to the informal nail technicians’ total exposures. No significant differences in adj TVOC concentrations were observed between the assessment regimes, but significantly higher exposures were recorded in the formal technicians. The results show that the SAE approach is feasible in the informal service sector and can extend an exposure dataset to enable reliable estimates for scenarios with substantial exposure variations.
282 Psychosocial challenges and opportunities of farmers and farmworkers: a systematic literature review
Authors: Hafner Nataša Dernovšček , Šprah Lilijana
Published: June 2024

• Objectives

The work environment and the nature of the work itself have a significant impact on the health and well-being of farmers and farm workers. Because of the way work is designed, organised and managed, as well as the economic and social environment of work, they are exposed to various psychosocial risks that increase the risk of work-related stress and can affect their performance, health and well-being. This systematic literature review examines the origins of psychosocial risks faced by farmers and farm workers.

• Method

The study is part of Safe Habitus (Strengthening Farm Health and Safety Knowledge and Innovations System), the European Commission funded project HORIZON. The literature search was conducted on peer-reviewed articles published in English in the primary database Web of Science between 2005 and 2023. This systematic review followed the PRISMA protocol: identification of the literature; screening questions; eligibility based on inclusion criteria; and assessment of the quality of the studies.

• Results

Among others, the following areas of psychosocial risks stood out: culture of farming, social protection, safety in farming and new technologies. The identified psychosocial hazards and risks arising from the psychosocial work environment of farmers and farm workers, including new psychosocial challenges and opportunities, and affecting their health and safety, are consistent with some previous studies.

• Conclusion

The results of study will provide recommendations for improved policy in this area and help practitioners to develop the best model for a safer and more inclusive working environment in farming and ultimately make farming a safer profession.
287 Respirable crystalline silica - advancements using realtime monitoring
Authors: O’Regan Neil
Published: June 2024

With new technology now available to help identify in real-time the presence of RCS in a working environment, this presentation will discuss the technology used, the data it can store, and the advantages of how real-time measurement when used in conjunction with traditional gravimetric sampling can help improve the decision-making process when RCS is present.

The presentation will look at scientific data from the instrument manufacturer, data supplied by a number of customers who have used the technology over the past 12 months on a number of different application sites, and the conclusions raised.

The objective of the presentation is to help the audience understand the advantages of using different technologies to help improve decision-making. Some background information on Silica dust will be included in the presentation, with the main focus on the real-time technology and the data that it records.

The current legislation will be discussed, along with the advancements in technology, and how the future looks for monitoring/detecting hazardous materials across the industry.

This is an educational presentation - using the knowledge gained from working with the product along with information our customers have shared with us.
293 Biomonitoring of ethylene oxide a challenge
Authors: Winkes Andre
Published: June 2024

Ethylene oxide (Eto) is widely used as a sterilizing agent in industrial settings. It is a gas with a low vapour pressure and has the properties to penetrate deep in holes and cracks. It also kills almost all biological active material. It is therefore a perfect agent for sterilising heat and or gamma radiation sensitive medical equipment and other products. The method of sterilisation is described in a European Standard EN 550. The most common used method is sterilising by overkill. This is because Eto is cheap and with this method no costly bioburden tests are needed afterwards. The use of the overkill method has a negative aspect on the exposure of workers to Eto.

Eto is a proven human carcinogen (category 1, IARC). Because Eto is a genotoxic carcinogen there is no safe exposure level. The Dutch exposure standard for Eto is currently 0,84 mg/m3. Resulting in an attributive cancer risk of 1 in 1000. Therefore the exposure to Eto should be reduced to the absolute minimum.

Workers that enter the gas chambers after sterilisation and after a lag time use full face independent breathing protection. Therefore air monitoring is not suitable to measure there resulting exposure.

To assess the remaining exposure, biological monitoring of a haemoglobin adduct (N-(2-hydroxy-ethyl)valine (HOEtVal) in red blood cells is used. It is a usable method with specific limitations. The method with its pitfalls and the results will be discussed as well as the positive effects on the remaining exposure.
303 Lessons learned from monitoring interventions at mild steel welding facilities
Authors: Assenhöj Maria , Karlsson Helen , Ljunggren Stefan
Published: June 2024

Welding constitutes a source of particles and dust that effects a large number of individuals at occupational environments throughout the world. Besides being classified as a carcinogen, welding fume has potential inflammatory properties and has been linked to cardiovascular disease.

We monitored the exposure at two large manufacturing companies welding in mild steel before but also after extensive preventive actions. Exposure was assessed by collecting respirable dust and its metals through stationary and personal sampling at multiple occasions over the study. Particle levels were assessed by using handheld particle-counting instruments. Both workers doing actual welding but also workers not welding themselves provided blood, urine and nasal lavage fluid for biomonitoring of potential health effects including inflammation, cardiovascular, renal and upper airways effects.

The interventions provided improvement in exposure for the workers at the companies. Some interventions appeared more successful with longevity while others only provided a temporary lowering lost over time. Use of welding helmet with integrated respirators were shown to be relatively non-effective at sufficiently lowering the exposure for welders in places with poor ventilation and local exhaust ventilation. The biomonitoring provided data investigated in relation to the exposure to further our understanding of potential health effects in both welders but also workers working in close proximity to the welding processes.
304 Using an online platform to promote and support occupational safety and health – a regulator’s perspective
Authors: Cahill Joan , Foster Declan , Molloy Brian
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this presentation is to share lessons learned regarding the use of an online platform (the Business electronic Safety Management and Risk Assessment Tool - BeSMART.ie) to enable small to medium sized enterprises (SME’s) to meet occupational safety and health compliance requirements, and to foster and promote a safety culture.

BesSMART.ie is a free and confidential online platform enabling SMEs to develop customized safety statements. Since its launch in 2011, BeSMART.ie has achieved over 106,000 users and 1.7 million completed risk assessments. User can register with the platform and/or proceed as guest users. Users select from one of 330 available business types. Each business type is associated with a specific risk assessment profile. To date, 522 hazards and 5,000 controls have been defined. Users can also add or remove hazards as appropriate to their business. The risk assessment follows a checklist format and is based on the IS EN31010:2019 Risk Management- Risk Assessment Technique. Risk assessments are written using simple English. There is no technical jargon or legislative terms. Risk assessments can be shared and reviewed with others in the organisation – enabling employee engagement and consultation. Further safety statements can be continuously updated. The platform also has an education section, supporting learning around best practice in occupational illness and accident prevention.

The reporting function in BeSMART.ie, is of use to the health and safety authority in terms of the assessment of reach and use of the tool across different work sectors, and the ongoing development of the platform.
309 Development of an exposome toolbox for reducing the occupational burden of disease: The EU EPHOR project
Authors: Kuijpers Eelco , Ge Calvin , Loh Miranda , Albin Maria , Selander Jenny , Godderis Lode , Ghosh Manosij , Vermeulen Roel , Peters Susan , Mehlum Ingrid Sivesind , Turner Michelle C , Schlünssen Vivi , Goldberg Marcel , Kogevinas Manolis , Harding Barbara N , Solovieva Svetlana , Garani-Papadatos Tina , van Tongeren Martie , Pronk Anjoeka
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Occupational risk reduction strategies are informed by existing scientific evidence on single exposure-single outcome associations, limiting their applicability. Within the EU EPHOR project (2020-2025), we aim to apply the exposome concept to working life health that will enable more effective risk reduction strategies and policies.

Methods

Within EPHOR, we investigate the effects of the working-life exposome by combining large-scale meta analyses of existing cohorts with the collection of new external and internal exposome data in case studies. Methods for characterizing the exposome and for investigating its complex associations (multiple exposures, timing of exposures, early health effects and vulnerability) with health are being developed.

Results

The methods and results of the project are being made available to scientists, policy makers and occupational health practitioners via the WE-EXPOSE Toolbox. Examples include methods to collect and interpret the external (e.g. with sensors) and internal (e.g. with non-invasive sampling) exposome, methods and tools to characterize (EuroJEM) and study effects of the exposome in multiple cohorts (Mega Cohort) in a harmonized way, and an online tool for visualizing occupational risk factors including levels, population sizes and related health effects across Europe.

Discussion and conclusion

An overview of the (planned) tools in the WE-EXPOSE Toolbox with emphasis on tools for occupational health practitioners as well as the cocreation process for enhancing the usability of specific tools will be presented. By providing a knowledge base for evidence-based prevention, the Toolbox will contribute to reducing the burden of occupational disease.
310 Risk assessment for the occupational hygienist sharing experiences
Authors: Tully Claire , Wright Frances
Published: June 2024

• Sometimes a workplace is developed for an employee but not a bystander and observing a workplace can present a hazard in itself, do we consider our own safety every time. And what are the potential consequences if we don’t.

• Geared towards new and experienced occupational hygienists to share their common workplace hazards and controls.

• Usually, Occupational Hygienists work is solitary, sometimes part of a Health and Safety team or company and very occasionally as part of a peer group of occupational hygienists. Society’s such as the OHSI and similar organisations are so important as it allows Occupational Hygienist to learn from each other in peer to peer support.

• 2-4 Panel discussion on common hazards Occupational Hygienists may come face to face with and what controls they put in place to keep themselves safe. Mix of prepared questions and questions from the audience.
311 Lessons learned from R&D and industrial metal additive manufacturing
Authors: Assenhöj Maria , Ljunggren Stefan , Karlsson Helen
Published: June 2024

Metal additive manufacturing (AM), commonly known as 3D-printing, is an emerging state-of-the art technology with significant economic and practical advantages. Due to its relative short history, especially in industrial serial production, the knowledge regarding exposure and health risks is severely limited. To alleviate this, we have monitored the occupational exposure and potential health effects at both smaller R&D-sites and at large-scale AM/powder production facilities.

Exposure was monitored through stationary and personal sampling of total and inhalable dust followed by metal analysis. Particle counting instruments were used to identify dusty works tasks and to evaluate preventive measures. AM operators and controls underwent health examinations, including questionnaires, spirometry, and blood and urine sampling to measure exposure and clinical health markers.

Exposure during printing were generally low but other aspects of the production chain were of greater concern regarding exposure risks: production of metal powder feedstock, handling of metal powder before/after print, and post-printing processes. During three research projects, we have seen a shift from a dusty work environment to a more safe-by-design approach throughout the AM process. Despite the AM operator’s relatively low exposure to dust and metals, we identified changes in a urinary marker for kidney function. However, this finding needs to be further evaluated.

In summary, our studies into the relative new field of metal AM exposure and health effects provides a basis to help companies and operators handling these techniques to move toward safe working conditions.
317 Overcoming chemical management challenges in oil and gas construction
Authors: Hamis Norhana Abd , Mustaffa Masfarita
Published: June 2024

Chemical management issues are pervasive within the oil and gas industry, leading to recurring challenges across various construction projects. Neglecting these challenges risks worker safety, environmental harm, and legal issues, underscoring the need for comprehensive mitigation strategies. This paper summarizes the findings and recommendations to address these challenges effectively.

A total of seven site intervention was carried out through random selection, encompassing construction site spanning both downstream and upstream projects in Malaysia. Major issues revolve around ineffective chemical management in which chemicals are not being handled correctly, leading to chemical non-compliance and a failure to meet regulatory standards within the industry. The identified chemical findings include inadequate secondary containment and chemical labelling, unavailability of SDS, poorly designed chemical storage, and insufficient emergency preparedness i.e., spill kit, eye wash.

To overcome these issues, proposed hierarchical mitigation strategies included the following: (1) prioritizing comprehensive training programs for all employees involved in chemical management; (2) investing in visual aids and communication tools to enhance awareness and understanding of chemical management best practices; (3) establishing a systematic approach to conduct periodic site visits and audits to maintain compliance; and (4) implementing competition-based incentives to encourage the adoption of effective chemical management practices across projects.

These chemical issues are often underestimated, yet their pervasive nature highlights the critical importance of compliance. It is imperative to recognize the far-reaching impact of these issues and to take proactive measures to ensure compliance, ultimately safeguarding the operational efficiency.
321 Applying lessons learnt from engineering control containment verification in pharmaceutical and chemical industry
Authors: Kerneis Pascal
Published: June 2024

The ever-increasing use of highly potent compounds in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries means that containment strategies need to be put in place. These containment strategies are based on several factors, including engineering controls. Engineering controls are often used without first being tested. These containment tests must be based on strategies with performance objectives. What are the limitations of these tests? How should they be organised? The keys to successful testing.

Based on the case study of the validation of an active pharmaceutical ingredient loading isolator, we will discuss the various difficulties involved in setting up tests and the keys to success.

The session aims to open discussion on lessons learned and case studies, and to raise the need for knowledge sharing between industries, through the implementation of testing strategies for these engineering controls.
379 Ensuring effective control of exposure during asbestos removal - Great Britain
Authors: Jackson Matthew
Published: June 2024

In Great Britain, HSE has conducted research in asbestos removal controls over several years, primarily looking at how improvements in industry and legislation in Great Britain have been effective in reducing exposure to asbestos removal workers. In the latest study the methodologies for control were observed in real work situations and both personal and static air monitoring were conducted. Airborne fibre concentrations were determined using phase contrast microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The research also examined the process of transfer of the area back to the dutyholder, the 4-stage clearance, which is an independent check by an analytical organization accredited to ISO/IEC17025:2017. Three detailed Research Reports have been produced for this work which will be summarised in this session and any questions taken.
35a - Supporting women in mining: diversity and inclusion
Authors: Wilk Nancy , Gendron Courtney
Published: June 2024

Traditionally, the mining sector has not been viewed as a leader in effectively managing diversity and inclusion. While numbers have improved, women continue to be underrepresented at every level within mining companies. Currently, the mining sector is committed to increasing diversity and improving inclusion. Globally, mining has set gender-based targets for the sector. They are actively investing in the success of women in mining and jurisdictions and organizations are tracking and reporting on diversity and inclusion performance. Mining organizations are engaged in improving inclusion-related efforts that promote the sense of belonging for workers. Why is diversity and inclusion important to mining? Diversity and inclusion promote creativity and strategic resilience. This is important as mining companies manage the complex challenges associated with community, environmental, social (including health and safety), and technical aspects of their industry. With increasing numbers of women in surface and underground mining and processing operations, a strategy is needed to better support these workers including their health, safety, and well-being, including reproductive health. This presentation will review the history of women in mining, challenges for women to access decent work in mining, suggestions that support recruiting and retaining women in the sector, and the path forward towards gender equality in mining. The importance of advancing equal employment opportunity and human rights in the workplace will be highlighted, along with the need for additional research to support women’s reproductive health and mitigate the risk of adverse reproductive outcomes. The next presentation will cover in more depth this latter topic.
132a - Assessing exposure to carbon nano fibres and carbon nano tubes in a production facility
Authors: Ervik Torunn , Graff Pål
Published: June 2024

Nanomaterial use and manufacture is a rapidly expanding field. Small and emerging companies make up a large portion of producers and the risks of exposure to nanomaterials (NMs) may not be known by producers. Additionally, occupational hygienists could lack knowledge or equipment necessary to measure the NMs. As these NMs do not contribute to the mass, a mass-based approach may not be suitable and there exist few occupational exposure limits available specific for NMs. However, the national institute of occupation health (NIOSH, US) recommends measuring respirable elemental carbon (EC) to evaluate exposure for carbon nano fibres (CNF) and carbon nano tubes (CNT). NIOSH then recommends that the respirable EC should be below 1 µg/m3 for 8 hours of exposure. The presence of CNF or CNT should also be confirmed by electron microscopy and parallel samples should therefore be collected. In this work, personal samples and stationary samples for EC and electron microscopy were collected at a small production facility in Norway where CNT and CNF were produced. The workers performed different tasks, such as crushing product, sieving, sandblasting as well as cleaning and maintenance of the furnace and handling of finished products. Additionally stationary equipment was a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) and a 13 stage NanoMOUDI impactor. The results show that even though the exposure in most cases were below the recommended value of 1 µg/m3 for respirable EC, there is an exposure to CNT/CNF and measures to limit the risk of exposure should continue.
207c - Advancement of exposure science and its application in occupational hygiene
Authors: Scheepers Paul
Published: June 2024

In the risk assessment of chemicals, estimation exposure is known to be a critical element of the overall outcome. Exposure assessments may offer quantified data but measurement data are often scarce cover a wide dynamic range, depending on the real life conditions or assumed scenario. In consumer safety, exposures are generally low and have a small impact if well controlled. Only the high numbers exposed at population level may raise concern. In contrast, occupational exposures are more likely higher and more likely to be non-compliant. With a focus on the health impact of industrial chemicals the exposure characterisation is more critical. Exposure scenarios drive risk assessment outcomes, and real life exposure data are needed to perform useful risk assessments. Methods for exposure assessment can be further improved and will probably include applications of biomonitoring or use novel sensor-technology for collection of time-resolved personalised exposure data. Modelling can be part of the solution in the problem analysis part. Biomonitoring feed in the initial assessment of exposure and also contribute to finding effective exposure mitigation strategies such as personal protection? The focus of this contribution will be to discuss opportunities for further improvement of exposure assessment based on the tools that we have access to now in the near future.
208a - Workplace health without borders: its mission, vision and impact from training
Authors: Galvin Jennifer
Published: June 2024

Workplace Health Without Borders (WHWB) is an international non-profit focused on Occupational Health/Industrial Hygiene for underserved workers. Our mission is to prevent work-related disease and injury through the sharing of expertise, knowledge, and skills. Sharing our knowledge globally through training was hindered during the pandemic. This presentation outlines how we pivoted to online training, delivered training in three different languages, and found new partners to help us perform occupational health and safety training. We will share the story of the online training process we pioneered that used a combination of asynchronous study with synchronous tutorials. This process allowed the students who normally had full time jobs to study at their own pace, followed by attending weekly tutorials. These tutorials were led by professionals in the field of occupational safety and health from various locations around the world. This presentation will provide lessons learned from evaluations, the impact of the training, how we overcame obstacles and what our plans are for the future. It will also discuss how good partners are essential to this process and most importantly how to focus on what your students need and want.
222d - Good practice for the interpretation of human biomonitoring data
Authors: Bury Daniel
Published: June 2024

Human biomonitoring data of exposures to chemicals require appropriate interpretations of the results, ideally from a health risk point of view. As the field of human biomonitoring grows, there are many different biological guidance values that are derived by various authorities (official bodies or non-profit organisations) to interpret these results. Guidance values can be largely grouped by health-based guidance values and non-health-based guidance values.

Health-based guidance values correspond to biomarker concentrations that are not anticipated to be harmful to health. They are either directly based on the association between biomarkers and health risks or indirectly based on the association between airborne levels and biomarkers, and specifically at airborne levels that are considered safe for human health.

Non-health-based guidance values are, for example, descriptive statistical values, such as reference values that correspond to biomarker concentrations at the upper end of background exposures of populations without known occupational exposures to the chemical in question. These levels, although not related to health risks, are highly useful to interpret occupational exposures and hygienic measures.

In addition, there are two other concepts of non-health-based guidance values that can be utilised, which is guidance values based on good-occupational-hygiene-practice and exposure equivalents for carcinogenic agents. The latter provides a relationship between airborne concentrations of the carcinogen and correlating biomarker concentrations.

Finally, practical approaches for the interpretation of human biomonitoring data where no guidance values are available will be presented, including the calculation of daily intakes for comparison with oral threshold values (such as TDI or ADI).
249c - Quantitative fit testing of health care workers in the Western Cape Province, South Africa in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
Authors: Jacobs Peter-John
Published: June 2024

COVID-19 is a disease caused primarily by the SARS-CoV-2 virus aerosols entering the respiratory system. Quantitative fit-testing of filtering face-piece respirators is a primary and validated means for protecting workers who are often in constant and close proximity to each other, as well as the patients or public they encounter in their work duties. Healthcare workers are especially at the highest risk levels not only during medical procedures such as tracheal intubation and direct delivery of medication to the lungs via nebulizers, but also from exposure during the treatment and care of patients in acute care and retirement homes. At the request of the Head Unit for Infection Prevention and Control of South Africa’s largest health care administrative area, Western Cape Province, Sedulitas implemented a train-the-trainer programme in quantitative fit-testing. As a result, several thousand health-care workers were fit tested from the onset of the programme in April 2022. Mr Jacobs will discuss the process and results of this innovative programme combining the expertise of the medical and the OEHS professions.
279a - Attitudes to noise at work
Authors: Philpott Leah
Published: June 2024

Noise, being defined as unwanted sound, is a pervasive social and occupational issue. Sound exposure is also common with a huge increase in personal listening through headphones over the last 10 years and sectors such as music and entertainment being identified for creating wanted sound for public and personal consumption.

Like with many health exposures there is an over reliance on PPE for noise management via hearing protection and little has changed over the years in terms of control innovation or attitudes – you might say if health is the poor relation to safety then noise has been the poor relation of health!

There is a perception that noise exposures in work have decreased over recent years due to a decline in traditional heavy manufacturing and fabrication. However other workplaces such as leisure, coffee shops and call centres have increased in number and employment rates and can present workers with significant noise exposure which is often ‘hidden’ if exposure is underneath headsets or unrecognised as a risk.

This session will look to explore attitudes to noise at work, the data available on exposures and ill health prevalence (or lack of) and work to improve this, emerging innovations and applicability of fit testing approaches. It will also present evidence on the wider health implications beyond hearing loss and the importance of prevention and protection in securing wider public and societal health and economic benefits.