bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract

• 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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.