bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-188 A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF TWO PERFORMANCE EVALUATION METHODS OF AIR PURIFIERS
Authors: Lin Cindy , Huang Sheng-Hsiu , Lin Chih-Wei , Chen Chih-Chieh 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) measures the appliance’s ability to reduce aerosol particles. There are two test methods for CADR measurement: pull-down and single-pass. Pull-down uses a chamber to measure aerosol concentration decay and obtain CADRC. Another method is to use the product of the air purifier’s flow rate and filtration efficiency, referred to as CADRE. This study compares the advantages and disadvantages of these two methods.

Methods
For pull-down, a small chamber is built to measure aerosol decay. The single-pass method uses a scanning mobility particle size analyzer to measure the aerosol number concentrations and particle size distributions upstream and downstream of the air purifier to obtain filtration efficiency and the most penetrating particle size (MPPS).

Results
Filtration efficiency increases with decreasing velocity due to longer retention times within the filter media. If the test aerosol is monodisperse, CADRE and CADRC should be identical. CADRE is consistently lower than CARDC when based on MPPS. CADRE is higher than CADRC when measuring the entire aerosol size spectrum. This mismatch becomes more pronounced as the spread of the aerosol size distribution increases.

Discussion
Through simulation, it is found that the longer the air purifier runs, the closer the aerosol size distribution is to MPPS. Furthermore, CADRC is overestimated if the test aerosol is far from the MPPS. Both performance testing methods have a reasonable correlation.

Conclusion
The filtration curve should be measured to determine MPPS. Hence, we can have a more conservative CADRE. The CADRE is more robust and faster than the CADRC.
P-189 ASSOCIATION BETWEEN INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND SICK BUILDING SYNDROME (SBS) IN A HOSPITAL BUILDING
Authors: Ketsakorn Arroon , Sripaiboonkij Penpatra , Suksawaeng Chaninpong 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Exposure to indoor air pollutants can cause adverse health effects especially if the workplace has poor ventilation. The purpose of this study was to assess associations of sick building syndrome (SBS) related to indoor air concentration and ventilation in a building in medical staff while performing task in a hospital building in Thailand.

Methods
The study was conducted between June and September 2022. Data collection involved using questionnaires which were developed by the researchers and used scientific instruments for the measurements of indoor air quality. The questions included population characteristics, work information, medical centre characteristics, indoor quality perception, indoor air quality parameters and SBS. The prevalence of SBS was classified into four groups: general symptoms, mucous irritation symptoms, lower respiratory symptoms, and skin problems. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to analyze data.

Results
The results showed that factors e.g. gender, age, education levels, job position, duration of working indoor or outdoor, ventilation at workplace, use of office equipment with printer ink, use of volatile and smelly office equipment, use of cleaners and air fresheners in the room are significantly associated with prevalence of health effects e.g. general health symptoms (fatigue, aching at different body parts e.g. shoulder, neck, back, anxious nausea), lower respiratory symptoms, mucus irritation symptoms, and skin problems.

Discussion and conclusion
Therefore, efforts should be made to improve indoor air quality by applying ventilation systems in the building to reduce the prevalence of health effects that may occur in staff working in a hospital.
P-190 INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND HEAT STRESS FOR ELDERLY REQUIRING MEDICAL HOME VISITS
Authors: Chang Che-Jui , Yang Hsiao-Yu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Climate change’s impact on public health is a growing concern, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly. This study aims to assess indoor air quality and heat exposure levels for elderly patients in home healthcare settings.

Methods
During a three-month period from May to July 2023, this study focused on elderly patients receiving medical home visits from National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch. AirBoxes (Edimax AI-1001W V3) were placed in each patient’s home to monitor indoor PM2.5 levels, temperature, and relative humidity. Heat index (HI) values were calculated to evaluate the severity of heat exposure.

Results
The study included eleven elderly patients, with an average age of 72.5 years, comprising nine males and two females. Approximately 41.19% of person-time faced Extreme Caution levels of heat exposure (HI: 32.2 - 39.4°C), indicating significant exposure to elevated heat index values. An additional 37.06% of person-time experienced Caution levels (HI: 26.7 - 32.2°C). Moreover, 14.46% of person-time faced Danger levels (HI: 39.4 - 51.1°C) of indoor heat exposure. Regarding 24-hour average PM2.5 levels, 44.51% of person-time experienced Good air quality (below 12 μg/m³), and 43.67% encountered Moderate air quality (12 - 35.5 μg/m³). However, 6.88% of person-time were exposed to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups of air quality (35.5 - 55.5 μg/m³), and 2.06% faced Unhealthy or Very Unhealthy air quality (55.5 - 250.5 μg/m³).

Discussion and conclusion
This study emphasizes the importance of indoor air quality and heat stress for elders. Proactive efforts to manage indoor environments are important for the elderly population.
O-116 HOW CAN SENSORS HELP OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH PROFESSIONALS? INSIGHTS FROM THE EPHOR PROJECT
Authors: Mueller Will , Smith Alice , Loh Miranda , Kuijpers Eelco 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The use of low-cost sensors is becoming more prevalent in society and could help improve worker health and safety. Our aim was to gain insights on how to best develop these technologies and expand their use by relevant stakeholders.

Methods
As part of stakeholder engagement activities in the Exposome Project for Health and Occupational Research (EPHOR), we developed a cross-sectional online survey to understand the acceptability and use of low cost sensors in the workplace from the perspective of occupational safety and health (OSH) professionals. Results were analysed using chi-squared tests.

Results
There were 195 survey respondents, mainly from the Netherlands (79; 41%) or the UK (69; 35%). Respondents were most interested in receiving information on peaks of exposure to different hazards (115; 81%), signalling of exposure above thresholds (109; 77%), and stimulating good working practices (106; 75%). There was no difference in sensor use by country, sector, or company size, but use was more common in hygienists compared to non-hygienists (67% vs 41%; p&lt;0.001).

Discussion
While monitoring instruments are a typical part of many OSH professionals’ work, use of low-cost sensors is less common. However, there is an interest in adopting low cost sensors and wearables to help OSH professionals understand patterns of exposure and improve exposure management practices.

Conclusion
Development of practical lower cost sensors and wearables for day-to-day management of workplace exposures should include OSH professionals. This will help ensure that sensor data collected are useful to the target audience and will encourage the use of sensors to promote worker health.
P-195 DECODING ACID SOLUTIONS PERMEATION IN CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE GLOVES: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY
Authors: Da Wang -Jun , Lin Yu-Wen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Acid exposure may lead to contact dermatitis. Gloves are usually the last line of defense. This study assesses glove permeation behaviors under potential acid exposure by evaluating their performance against various acids.

Methods
This study employed ASTM F739 open-looped permeation test method, collecting samples every 15 minutes over 4 hours. Sulfuric acid (96% and 18%) and nitric acid (65% and 33%) were used as challenge solutions. Deionized water and artificial sweat served as collection media. Investigated nitrile gloves A (0.38 mm) and B (0.56 mm) and neoprene gloves C (0.60 mm) and D (0.75 mm). Permeation samples were measured using a pH meter, universal test papers for hydrogen ion breakthrough times (BTs), and ion-exchange chromatography for acidic ion BTs.

Result
The thickest glove, Glove D, exhibit no breakthroughs in all tests. Gloves A and B had average BTs of 50±8.66 and 125±22.91 minutes in the 65% nitric acid tests. Neoprene glove C broke through at 60±30 minutes in 96% sulfuric acid, earlier than nitrile gloves (glove A 110±8.66 minutes, glove B 175±8.66 minutes). Low acid concentrations showed no breakthrough. Permeation behaviors varied across the glove materials and acid ions. Collection media had no effect on BTs.

Discussion and conclusion
Glove material and thickness significantly impact acid solution permeation. The hydrogen ion concentration is crucial for BTs. Universal test papers were validated and recommended as practical low-tech acid breakthrough monitors.
P-198 3,3’-DICHLORO-4,4’-DIAMINODIPHENYLMETHANE (MBOCA) EXPOSURE AND BIOLOGICAL MONITORING IN JAPANESE WORKERS
Authors: Nomiyama Tetsuo , Tsukahara Teruomi , Hasegawa Kohei , Mizuki Masaru , Yamano Yuko , Yamauchi Takenori , Okubo Shigeko , Takeuchi Yasuhito , Nishinoiri Osamu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
3,3’-Dichloro-4,4’-diaminodiphenylmethane (MBOCA) (CAS: 101-14-4) is used as urethane resin hardener etc. in industries. Mean concentration of occupational exposure limit (OEL-M) is recommended at 0.005 mg/m3, and biological exposure index (OEL-B) is provisionally recommended at 10 µg/g·creatine of urinary MBOCA after shift work by Japanese Society of Occupational Health (JSOH). Carcinogenicity classification of MBOCA is proposed as Group 2A based on sufficient evidence from animal carcinogenicity.

Methods
Personal exposure concentrations and biological exposure index of MBOCA in urine were assessed in ten male workers exposed to MBOCA during 5 consecutive workdays and next beginning of the work-shift in Japan. The types of works were handling dissolved MBOCA (type 1, n=3), handling molded urethane (type 2, n=3), and demolding urethane product (type 3, n=4).

Results, discussion and conclusion
No MBOCA personal exposure and urinary MBOCA were detected in type 2 and 3 engaged workers. MBOCA personal exposure were between N.D. and 0.2 µg/m3, these were below OEL-M. Urinary MBOCA were between 2.5 and 15 µg/g·creatinine in there type 1 engaged workers, and were relatively higher in comparison with exposure concentrations. It might be due to dermal absorption in addition to respiratory absorption.
P-200 AIRBORNE EXPOSURE TO LABORATORY ANIMAL ALLERGENS: 2005-2022
Authors: Mason Howard , Jones Kate 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The use of animals remains pivotal in many research studies. Predominantly mice are the species used, followed by rats. However, exposure to laboratory animals allergens is a well recognized cause of sensitisation with symptoms including occupational asthma (OA). Since late 2004 we have been monitoring major mouse and rat allergens, (mus m 1 and rat n 1 respectively), in air samples collected in animal facilities.

Methods
We have investigated the levels and changes in mus m 1 and rat n1 over the period 2005-2022. We estimated the annual incidence rate of OA based on case reports to the SWORD scheme (Manchester University), and the size of the sector from the number of personal license holders.

Results
5441 mus m 1 and 2042 rat n 1 results met the criteria for inclusion. Samples were derived from 429 site visits to 89 facilities. Approximately 10% of sites undertake annual monitoring. A significant downward shift in mus m 1 personal sample results was apparent from 2014 onwards, as well as significant downward trend in its 90th percentile from 2008. We calculated the annual incidence rate of OA as declining from 0.68-1.67 per 1000 staff for 2004-2006 to 0.30-0.81 per 1000 staff in 2017-2019. ie. about a 55% decrease.

Discussion and conclusion
A decrease is apparent in personal exposure in the predominant species used, together with a decrease in OA. A number of activities remain a potential source of high exposure in some facilities. The data allow facilities to benchmark their own monitoring results against their peers. ©Crown copyright (2023)
P-202 HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF NAIL TECHNICIANS IN THE FORMAL AND INFORMAL SECTORS OF JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: Keretetse Goitsemang , Brouwer Derk , Nelson Gill 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from nail salon activities presents a risk of acute and chronic health effects to nail technicians. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of self-reported symptoms associated with using nail products, and to assess the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic effects of selected VOCs among formal and informal nail technicians in Johannesburg, South Africa, using a probabilistic risk assessment approach.

Methods
A questionnaire was administered to 54 formal and 60 informal nail technicians to elicit information on sociodemographic characteristics, work conditions, and self-reported symptoms. Passive sampling was used to measure 60 personal breathing zone concentrations of 20 nail technicians over a period of three consecutive days, for selected VOCs. In addition, 29 passive samples for formaldehyde were collected in the informal sector.

Results
The findings showed that the formal sector employs mainly females while the informal sector employs male and female nail technicians. With the exception of formaldehyde, all VOC concentrations were below their respective occupational exposure limits. Sixty percent of the informal nail technicians reported having experienced health-related symptoms, compared to 52% of the formal nail technicians. All nail technicians’ median and 95th percentile non-cancer risks exceeded the acceptable risk of 1 for xylene, 2-propanol, and benzene.

Discussion and conclusion
The cancer risk estimates (medians and 95th percentiles) for benzene and formaldehyde exceeded the US EPA cancer risk threshold of 1 x 10-6. These findings indicate that nail technicians are a risk of developing acute and chronic health effects from long-term low level-exposure to VOCs.
P-205 THE SAFECHROM PROJECT - EVIDENCE FROM A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY SHOWS THAT HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM IS STILL A CONCERN IN SWEDEN
Authors: Jiang Zheshun , Schenk Linda , Assarsson Eva , Albin Maria , Bertilsson Helen , Dock Eva , Hagberg Jessika , Karlsson Lovisa E , Kines Pete , Krais Anette M , Ljunggren Stefan , Lundh Thomas , Modig Lars , Möller Rickie , Pineda Daniela , Ricklund Niklas , Saber Anne T , Storsjö Tobias , Amir Evana Taher , Tinnerberg Håkan , Tondel Martin , Vogel Ulla , Wiebert Pernilla , Engfeldt Malin , Broberg Karin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) is a human carcinogen, but the current exposure to Cr(VI) at Swedish workplaces is unknown.

Methods
Recruitment of 113 workers with potential Cr(VI) exposure and 72 controls was combined with measurements of inhalable Cr(VI) (only exposed workers) and total Cr in urine and red blood cells (RBC), Bayesian analysis of occupational exposure limit (OEL) compliance was used, as well as the Swedish job-exposure-matrix.

Results
Exposed workers performed processing of metal products, steel production, welding, and plating. The geometric mean concentration of inhalable Cr(VI) in exposed workers was 0.15 μg/m3. Eight workers (7%) exceeded the Swedish OEL (5 μg/m3), and the share of OEL exceedances was estimated to be up to 19.6% for stainless steel welders. Urine- and RBC-Cr were significantly higher in exposed workers compared with controls. Workers with inferred non-acceptable local exhaustion ventilation showed significantly higher inhalable Cr(VI), urine- and RBC-Cr than those with acceptable ventilation. Workers with inferred correct use of respiratory protection had higher inhalable Cr(VI), and, paradoxically, higher urine- and RBC-Cr concentrations than workers with incorrect use. We estimate that ~17 900 Swedish workers are occupationally exposed to Cr(VI) today.

Discussion
Our study showed that although most air measurements were relatively low, 7% exceeded the OEL, and particularly stainless steel workers are at risk for exceeding the OEL. The existing protective measures implemented at workplaces are still inadequate and insufficient.

Conclusion
Some workers in Sweden are exposed to high levels of the non-threshold carcinogen Cr(VI). National strategies aligned with European strategies are needed to eliminate occupational cancer.
P-206 EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT IN OCCUPATIONAL SETTINGS: IMPORTANCE OF AN ADAPTED BIOMONITORING STRATEGY
Authors: Mirela Ani Maria , Creta Matteo , Van Nieuwenhuyse An , Duca Radu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The investigation of hygiene samples is often insufficient to evaluate the health risks due to occupational exposure. Human biomonitoring (HBM) is an important tool to determine directly the concentrations of substances or their metabolites in the body. In this context, we investigated workers exposed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in an occupational setting by means of HBM in urine, integrated with air exposure measurements.

Methods
Exposed workers (n=57) were recruited during the remediation works in an old industrial site polluted by VOCs, from December 2019 until June 2020. Pre-shift and post-shift urine samples were collected together with continuous air monitoring for total VOCs using PIDs. Urinary concentration of methylhippuric acid; S-phenyl mercapturic acid; muconic acid; mandelic acid; phenylglycoxylic acid; trichloroacetic acid; o-cresol acid; hippuric acid were determined. Information about the performed tasks and personal protective equipment (PPEs) were also collected.

Results
The concentration of o-cresol were lower in the period before Covid-19 outbreak, ranging from 0.08 to 0.51 mg/gcreat, while, after the Covid-19 restriction, the concentration ranged from 0.34 to 0.55 mg/gcreat. However, the analyses of air samples have shown a higher VOCs concentration (1.72 – 33.98 ug/m3) in the first period, compared with the second period (1.5 – 12.03 ug/m3).

Discussion
In this study, it has been observed that concentrations of urine metabolites were highly related with exposure. These findings have been associated with an improper use of PPEs.

Conclusion
This study highlights the importance of HBM and its utility in better determining the absorbed dose compared with the more conventional environmental assessment.
O-120 DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH EFFICIENCY SOURCE-CONTROL DEVICE FOR COVID-19
Authors: Chiu Ching-Yi , Huang Sheng-Hsiu , Lin Chih-Wei , Chen Chih-Chieh 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Preventing the particles exhaled by infected persons from contaminating the environment plays a crucial role in breaking the chain of transmission of COVID-19. This study aims to develop a breath-responsive personal exhaled breath aerosol receiver (BR-PEBAR) to capture exhaled particles without burdening the wearer’s breath.

Methods
BR-PEBAR comprises a hood, a connecting tube, a filter unit, and a fan powered by a lithium battery. A pressure-sensor-based microprocessor controls the autofeedback following the breathing pattern. A mannequin and a breathing machine simulate actual wearing and breathing conditions. The capture efficiency of BR-PEBAR is evaluated in an aerosol chamber to validate and optimize the design.

Results
The results show that the hood’s optimal height, width, and thickness are 3, 10, and 2 cm, respectively. The 3D design transparent sheet is designed to adjust the distance between the sheet and the face. This design effectively minimizes the interaction of the exhaled airflow with the environment. The BR-PEBAR achieves 99.9% capture efficiency without creating significant negative pressure inside the BR-PEBAR.

Discussion
The hood can be worn with ear straps or headbands. The heavy parts are hung from the neck strap or tied to the waist belt for comfort. If necessary, the capture efficiency can be even higher by adjusting the baseline negative pressure inside the hood.

Conclusion
The BR-PEBAR has high capture efficiency and comfort. It can control airborne diseases by preventing exhaled particles from contaminating the environment. Patients with airborne diseases should wear a BR-PEBAR.
O-121 NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION IN THE NEW FORMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Authors: Titopoulou Maria , Vaneva Nadezhda 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction and methods
New forms of employment are the general term for more diversified employment forms that have emerged or gained importance since around 2000. Characterized by changing working patterns of communication, contractual relations, locations, duration and work schedule, increased use of information and communication technologies (ICT) or a combination thereof, these are most often casual work, collaborative employment, crowd employment, interim management, employee sharing, ICT-based mobile work, job sharing, work in platform, precarious work, voucher-based and portfolio work. Our main research purpose is to analyze non-verbal communication’s impact on the increasingly diverse and flexible employment forms, the results of which will focus on planning and implementation of measures, guaranteeing workers’ protection and employment status.

Results and discussion
Socio-economic and technological recent changes have led to scale and scope’s increase of new employment forms, upgrading traditional employer-employee relationships to non-traditional work patterns and workplaces. Increasingly interactive connectivity of all elements of verbal and non-verbal communication in a common flow of messages increases the effect of experience in communication. In the context of the digitalization of communication, the study of the interrelationship of the elements of non-verbal communication in effective communication is essential. Modern communication techniques via kinesics, proxemics and vocalization can turn everyday communication into a highly emotional experience and be a tool for group persuasion and manipulation. They play a serious socio-psychological role in spreading information, building communities and reinforcing attitudes.

Conclusion
Non-verbal communication patterns in new employment relationships help building more sustainable and inclusive labor market, avoiding situations where new employment forms are less favorable than more established types of employment.