bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
143 Association of bioaerosol specie, concentration and size distribution during and after work shifting and after guest-visiting in intensive care units
Authors: Yeh Yi-Chiao , Chen Pei-Yu , Kung Pan-Chin , Chang Yu-Nung , Lai Chane-Yu 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The association of bacteria specie, concentration and size distribution during, after work shifting and after guest-visiting were evaluated in intensive care units (ICUs). Two six-stage viable Andersen cascade impactors were used to collect airborne bacteria and fungi separately in ICUs. Their concentrations and size distributions were determined after culturing. A BD Phoenix-100 automated interpretation system was used to identify the sampled bacteria species. The fungi species were identified by trained medical laboratory technologist.
The results showed that during the work shifting, 33.33% of the sampled bacteria was Pantoea agglomerans. Tatumella ptyseos was about 25%, Rodentibacter pneumotropicus was 16.66%, and Pasteurella multocida was 4.166%. However, after work shifting, 28.57% of the sampled bacteria was Tatumella ptyseos. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis was 28.57%, and Actinobacillus lignieresii was 14.29%. After guest-visiting, 75% of the sampled bacteria was Bacillus licheniformis and Pseudomonas fluorescens was about 25%. The total airborne bacteria concentrations in the three periods were 56.77, 16.49, and 9.42 CFU/m3, respectively.
The taxonomic results of the airborne fungi in the three periods were Penicillium oxalicum, Trichophuton spp., Aspergillus niger, and Microsporum (all accounting for 16.66%); Penicillium oxalicum (50%), and Scopulariovsis brevicaulis (50%); and Aspergillus niger (33.33%) and Penicillium oxalicum (33.33%), respectively. The total concentrations of airborne fungi in the three periods were 14.13, 4.71, and 7.07 CFU/m3, correspondingly. The population of medical workers during the work shifting was much higher than those at other periods. Increasing the air change rate per hour during work shifting is recommended to decrease the risk of patient infection.
162 Development and testing of a breath-responsive personal exhaled breath aerosol receiver (BR-PEBAR)
Authors: Lin Ruei-Chun , Chiu Ching-Yi , Huang Sheng-Hsiu , Lin Chih-Wei , Chen Chih-Chieh 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Masks effectively block larger respiratory droplets, but poor sealing or misuse can lead to particle leakage. Smaller exhaled particles, if virus-carrying, can linger in the air and increase infection risk. To address this issue, this research endeavours to develop the PEBAR by integrating a breath-responsive system. The objective is to optimize energy efficiency and user comfort while concurrently promoting environmental protection.
The core components of the BR-PEBAR include a mask, a microcontroller board, a cartridge, and a DC blower. Initially, we create a program using Arduino to generate code that responds to breathing patterns. This code adjusts to variations in human breathing during system operation using a microcontroller and a pressure sensor inside the mask. Next, we examine how different factors affect the BR-PEBAR’s performance. This includes the location of the pressure sensor, tubing dimensions, and mask fit. The goal is to understand how each variable impacts the mask’s internal pressure and identify the most efficient configuration. Once operational parameters are established, we conduct tests to assess particle capture efficiency (CE) in real-world scenarios.
During Arduino code development, choosing to average five simultaneous readings was selected to maintain balance, ensuring system precision and quick adjustments, as single readings can lead to extreme values and instability. Choosing a pressure sensing point below the mouth preserved mask transparency. Larger tubing diameter and shorter length minimized voltage requirements. After validation, the modified BR-PEBAR effectively managed up to 25 liters/minute with CE consistently above 99.5%. This suits routine respiratory activity and light exertion, reducing environmental pollution and Infection risk.
181 Evaluation of respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica area concentrations in a clay brick factory using a field-based approach
Authors: Linde Stefan , Deysel Jeanré , Engelbrecht Miné , Pretorius Lizé , Lambat Zaakir 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Field-based monitoring methods have been developed for respirable dust and respirable crystalline silica (RCS) to enable exposure results to be obtained on the same day. This study aimed to use these field-based monitoring methods to evaluate respirable dust and RCS concentrations in the workplace air of a clay brick factory.

Methodology
Area monitoring was performed using NIOSH 7602 and the Nanozen DustCount 9000i. Both sampling trains were fixed to a tripod and placed in one of four work areas close to workers for a period of approximately five hours. A total of 13 sets of measurements were collected. Prior to analysis using infrared spectrometry (KBr pellet), 37 mm filters underwent direct-on-filter analysis for silica using a portable FT-IR instrument and NIOSH FAST software.

Results
Median time-weighted average (TWA) concentrations were 0.313 mg/m3 (max = 1.659 mg/m3) for respirable dust and 0.090 mg/m3 (max =0.289 mg/m3) for RCS. Significant positive relationships were found between the two methods for respirable dust (Spearman r = 0.853; p&lt;0.01) and RCS (Spearman r = 0.934; p&lt;0.0001). The direct-on-filter analysis of 37 mm filters also correlated strongly with infrared spectrometry (KBr pellet) (Spearman r = 0.990; p&lt;0.0001). Additionally, the DustCount enabled the identification of peak concentrations (max = 7.548 mg/m3) and data showed that the dominant particle sizes were 0.375 µm and 0.468 µm.

Conclusions
The results of this study show on a small scale that field-based techniques can be combined with conventional monitoring techniques to obtain quicker exposure results and more detailed data to better understand exposure to for respirable dust and RCS.
199 Exposure to air pollutants during smart working: a case study
Authors: Borghi Francesca , Spinazzè Andrea , Fanti Giacomo , Albareda Angelica , Ghiraldini Jacopo , Campagnolo Davide , Carminati Alessio , Keller Marta , Rovelli Sabrina , Zellino Carolina , Cattaneo Andrea , Cavallo Domenico Maria 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
WFH (Working From Home) is increasingly common, necessitating a careful evaluation of WFH workers’ health. Recent studies have explored various aspects, including its impact on workers’ psychological and physical well-being, highlighting positive and negative aspects of this “new” working mode. This study aims to evaluate one of these aspects: worker exposure to atmospheric pollutants.

Methods
Two monitoring surveys were performed: a long-term and a short-term campaign, both focused on the measurement of personal exposure to size-fractionated PM (Particulate Matter) in WFH and WFO (Working From Office) conditions, through a paired-sample study design.

Results
Results of the long-term campaign show how WFH subject is exposed to higher (up to 4 times) PM concentration, compared to the WFO subject. Specific activities performed by the subjects impacted their exposure concentrations to PM. Also, in the case of short-term campaign, particular activities seem to contribute to a greater worker exposure to PM. Given the potential growth of people WFH, it’s crucial to comprehensively assess these “new domestic offices.” Organizations should evaluate indoor environmental quality (IEQ), occupational exposure to risk factors, and implement mitigation measures as needed to address and manage health risks for WFH employees. Additionally, consideration should be given to other risk factors and health issues, such as those found in traditional office settings (e.g., musculoskeletal disorders, computer vision syndrome).

Conclusions
Monitoring IEQ, in the framework of a comprehensive risk assessment, identifying workplace-specific risks, and implementing appropriate mitigation measures are actions organizations should consider to better understand and address potential health risks associated with WFH conditions.
206 Measurements of diesel exhausts - Comparing elemental carbon and black carbon
Authors: Storsjö Tobias , Tinnerberg Håkan , Berggren Johanna , Molnár Peter 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Diesel exhaust exposure is a known carcinogen even at low levels of exposure. The new occupational exposure limit for diesel exhausts is based on the measurement of elemental carbon (EC) which went into effect at the beginning of 2023 in EU. The analysis of EC is not extremely expensive, but specialised instrument is needed for the analysis, which may not be accessible everywhere. An alternative method for measure diesel exhaust exposure is black carbon (BC) with an aethalometer, a real time monitoring instrument, making it possible to identify working tasks that are more prone to cause exposure. The EC measurement on the other hand gives an integrated amount, an average over the whole sampling time. There is a large overlap between what is BC and what is EC, so BC could be a good proxy for the EC exposure. The study we have conducted aims to investigate how well the exposure measurement of an aethalometer and measurement of EC correlate in different work environments. In the current study we have measured BC and EC in three types of environments, two occupational and one test chamber study. The two occupational environments studied were in mines and in a warehouse where diesel trucks were used to move wares. The results shows that BC and EC signals have good correlation, but that BC usually gives a higher average exposure over the day. This could be due to multitude of reasons, but one of them could be presence of other light absorbing particles.
209 Evaluating the respiratory protection programs in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry: approach to assessing knowledge, awareness, behaviour, and compliance
Authors: Mohammed Suraiya , van Tongeren Martie , Povey Andrew , Slater Michael 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The oil and gas industry in Nigeria poses significant health risks to its workers due to exposure to crude oil and petroleum products during various processes. To ensure worker safety and health, the Respiratory Protection Program (RPP) is essential. However, past studies have identified a knowledge-practice gap leading to inadequate safety practices.
This study aims to assess the RPPs in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry by evaluating workers’ knowledge, awareness, behaviour, and compliance regarding respiratory protection while aligning with the hierarchy of controls. It has four main objectives:
Assess the overall control program in reducing respiratory hazards, following the hierarchy of control.
Evaluate the functional and effective elements of the RPP in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Determine if knowledge and awareness of respiratory protection vary by location or processes.
Evaluate employee compliance with the RPP.
The study will employ a mixed-method approach, combining open-ended qualitative data collected through interviews with industrial hygienists and numerical quantitative data obtained from questionnaire surveys of health and safety officers and workers in selected oil and gas companies. The COM-B (Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation - Behavior) model will guide the development of questions for both approaches.
The findings aim to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the current RPP, offering insights for improvement. This will significantly enhance occupational health and safety practices within the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Notably, this study is groundbreaking in Nigeria, as it utilizes the COM-B model to examine the behaviour of oil and gas workers in complying with respiratory protection measures, making it a pioneering effort in this field.
216 Exposure based adaptation as an application of inhalation TTC values
Authors: Hahn Stefan , Bitsch Annette 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The European regulation on Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals (REACH) requires generation of information on the intrinsic properties (including hazard) of registered substances depending on their tonnage. In situations where human or environmental exposure is absent or not significant, exposure-based adaptation (EBA) may be considered. EBA comprises all types of modifications of the standard information requirements, of which the exposure based waiving (EBW) is an option that allows to waive higher tier mammalian toxicity studies. In order to justify for a defined endpoint the omission of the standard information requirement, a high level of confidence is needed to demonstrate no or no significant exposure.
Thresholds for toxicological concern (TTC) are used to decide on acceptable oral intakes. This concept has recently been expanded to inhalation route of exposure. These values can easily be converted in inhalation exposure levels or vapour pressures below which no concern exist. These cut off criteria provide the basis for robust science-based EBA justifications and can be used to identify the most relevant exposure route(s) for new testing proposals. Even though, this approach is more challenging for dermal uptake iTTC values can be used together with PBK modelling and dermal uptake to calculate maximal external exposure concentrations below which human exposure is considered safe, and which can be applied for exposure-based waiving.
217 Effects of workplace violence on Taiwan hospital security guards’ mental and physical health during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lin Tzu-Hsien , Lee Ying Han , Chen Chiu-Ying , Wu Yun-Hsuan , Lai Chane-Yu , Lee Patricia Chiao-Tzu 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Aims
We investigated the mental and physical health (MPH) effects of workplace violence (WPV) on Taiwan hospital security guards during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted in three hospitals in Taiwan from July, 2021 to June, 2022. All security guards in the selected hospitals were asked to complete a semi-structured ‘violence questionnaire’ addressing type (physical, psychological, verbal violence, and sexual harassment) and 12-item Chinese Health Questionnaire (Taiwan version) (CHQ-12).

Results
A total of 110 hospital guards out of 120 completed the questionnaire. In all, 46% indicated they had experienced some form of WPV, 42% had experienced verbal violence (VV), 31% had experienced physical violence (PHV) 14% had experienced psychological violence (PSV) and 6% had experienced sexual harassment (SH). The CHQ-12 scores of victims and others were 3.5±2.4 and 2.1±1.1, respectively (p&lt;.001). The correlation coefficients between WPV and MPH were.29 (p&lt;.01),.27, (p&lt;.01),.39 (p&lt;.001).12 (p=.23) and.29 (p&lt;.01) for VV, PHV, PSV, SH and any type of WPV, respectively.

Conclusions
Hospital security guards in Taiwan who experienced WPV during the COVID-19 pandemic had higher CHQ-12 scores indicating poor MPH than those who had not experienced WPV. WPV would significantly affect MPH, except for SH.
239 Telework occupational health measures, government guidelines, and corporate governance: Insights from Taiwanese-listed companies
Authors: Lin Ro-Ting , Li Chia-Jung 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Telework increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting the Taiwanese government to issue two guidelines for companies. We assessed the disclosure practices aligning with these telework guidelines of Taiwanese-listed companies. Additionally, we explored the association between their disclosure and corporate governance, with a specific focus on occupational health measures.

Methodology
We collected data from sustainability reports of 295 Taiwanese-listed companies for the years 2020 and 2021, including their disclosure of corporate telework strategies and occupational health measures aligned with government guidelines. We performed McNemar test and General Estimating Equation to compare responses between the two years and investigate any connections with corporate governance rankings.

Results
We found a significant increase in telework adoption by surveyed companies, particularly in 2021 (68%). Mentions of government guidelines also increased (67%) in 2021. Companies with stronger corporate governance were more inclined to adopt online occupational health measures, including occupational health services (RR = 2.03; p &lt; 0.001) and mental health promotion initiatives (RR = 2.01; p = 0.032). However, assessments of home workspace environments remained relatively limited.

Conclusions
These findings underscore the significant uptick in the disclosure of telework-related strategies following the issuance of government guidelines. Furthermore, they shed light on the substantial impact of corporate governance on the implementation of occupational health measures. As telework continues to evolve, the complementary roles of government guidelines and corporate governance remain central in shaping work arrangements and ensuring the well-being of the workforce.
288 The trend of promotion and disclosure of occupational mental health in Taiwanese companies
Authors: Chang Chieh-Wen , Lin Ro-Ting 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Under Taiwan’s Occupational Safety and Health Facilities Regulations, companies must create a plan to prevent diseases arising from abnormal workloads. Enacted in 2014, this regulation came with accompanying guidelines. The Financial Supervisory Commission also required listed companies to release sustainability reports that same year. This study analyses the trend of Taiwanese companies disclosing disease prevention plans related to abnormal workloads from 2014 to 2020.

Methodology
The study focuses on listed Taiwanese companies that released sustainability reports and underwent corporate governance evaluations. We employed content analysis to evaluate if these companies disclosed plans for preventing diseases from abnormal workloads in their reports. We particularly examined disclosure patterns before and after regulatory revisions.

Results
The study revealed a consistent rise in overall disclosure of plans for preventing diseases from abnormal workloads, increasing from 9% in 2014 to 50% in 2020. Companies with higher governance scores showed a substantial increase, from 10% in 2014 to 63% in 2020, particularly rising 14% in 2019. Similarly, companies with lower governance scores also notably improved, going from 8% in 2014 to 42% in 2020, particularly rising 11% in 2015.

Conclusion
Companies are increasingly disclosing disease prevention programs related to work abnormalities. High governance score companies saw a remarkable 53% increase, emphasizing their strong commitment to transparency and sustained safety measures. Even companies with lower governance scores experienced a significant 34% rise, indicating a growing focus on occupational safety and health. This upward trend suggests a collective push towards achieving 100% disclosure.
330 What can Futurama teach us about the future of occupational hygiene
Authors: Mott Joe , Kelly-Burkett Lee 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Using the world of the show, Futurama, this poster will give an overview of the significant do’s and don’ts from the perspective of an Occupational Hygienist, with a view to prolonging worker health and avoiding unnecessary exposure to risks, injuries, and illnesses.
325 Empowering exposure risk decision-making: leveraging statistical tools for good decisions and resource optimization
Authors: Logan Perry , Hewett Paul 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
In the dynamic landscape of occupational hygiene, making informed and precise exposure risk decisions is paramount. These decisions not only safeguard the well-being of workers but also efficiently allocate limited resources. Join us for an engaging session at the IOHA conference as we delve into the art and science of strengthening exposure risk decision-making.
Our session will illuminate the path to mastery by exploring the effective use of both traditional and Bayesian statistical analysis tools. Through real-world examples and practical applications, we will demonstrate how these tools can be harnessed to make accurate exposure risk decisions based on monitoring data. What’s more, these invaluable insights can be attained through freely available statistical resources, ensuring accessibility to all.
Key Highlights:
1.Traditional and Bayesian Analysis: Gain a comprehensive understanding of how traditional and Bayesian statistical analysis tools can be employed to enhance exposure risk decision-making.
2.Real-Life Applications: Dive into case studies and practical examples that showcase the practicality and efficacy of these statistical methods in real-world scenarios.
3.Resource Optimization: Discover how precision in exposure risk decisions can optimize the allocation of limited resources, promoting efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
4.AIHA Exposure Decision Analysis Registry: Learn about the FREE AIHA Exposure Decision Analysis Registry and how it can further enrich your exposure decision-making toolbox.
Your active engagement in this session will enrich your knowledge and guide your next steps in refining your exposure decision-making capabilities. Together, we’ll embark on a journey towards safer workplaces, resource optimization, and more informed decisions. Join us in the pursuit of excellence in occupational hygiene and risk management.
79 PDC: Biological monitoring for chemical exposures at work
Authors: Jones Kate , Baldwin Peter 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Biological monitoring is the analysis of hazardous substances, or their metabolites, in a worker’s urine, blood or breath and is used to assess their exposure to chemicals by inhalation, ingestion or absorption through the skin. It is particularly valuable where the control of exposure relies on personal protective equipment or to investigate the behavioural aspects of exposure controls.
This course provides an introduction to biological monitoring, the practicalities associated with it and how it can be a useful and cost-effective tool for occupational hygiene and health professionals to assess and control exposure to substances in the workplace. Delegates will be shown how to use biological monitoring to assess chemical exposures and how to interpret biological monitoring results in order to protect worker health. The course includes practical, interactive learning elements using relevant case studies to enhance learning.
Agenda
•Introduction to Biological Monitoring
•Practicalities of setting up a biological monitoring programme
•View from a hygienist – case studies from actual site visits
•Practical session – group work around a case study
•Interpreting BM results – including guidance values and when to take action
•Monitoring in Practice – examples of how to implement a biological monitoring programme
Learning outcomes
•Understand the fundamentals of biological monitoring
•Understand the practicalities of establishing a biological monitoring programme
•Understand how biological monitoring can enhance the services that occupational hygiene and health professionals offer
•Be able to use biological monitoring to assess chemical exposures
•Know how to interpret and act on results from biological monitoring reports