bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
68 Human Biomonitoring (HBM) for emergency responders - Basic considerations, a practical approach and lessons learned
Authors: Bader Michael , Bäcker Sandra , Jäger Thomas , Webendörfer Stefan , Kaller Martin , Pfrang Jörg , Van Bortel Gert 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Chemical incidents such as fires of different types and sizes as well as accidental spills and leakages, or the unintended release of hazardous substances into the environment are typical scenarios that require an emergency response. The potential hazard and health risk caused by exposure to chemical substances has been discussed and reviewed repeatedly in recent years. According to an evaluation by the International Agency on Cancer Research (IARC), the work as a firefighter is classified as Group 1 carcinogenic. Therefore, the quantitative analysis and assessment of exposure to hazardous chemicals after incidents has received an increasing interest among firefighters and health and safety authorities in disaster management. Human biomonitoring (HBM), the analysis of hazardous substances or their metabolites in human biological material such as blood and urine, is one meaningful approach for the assessment of individual exposure. The practical application, however, requires a certain degree of preparedness, accessibility of resources, and a transparent decision process. This presentation describes the basics of HBM (selection of parameters, sampling, storage, assessment values), the challenges (sampling time limitations, transport issues, interpretation, report chains) as well as examples of already established emergency HBM systems within the chemical industry and beyond. The lessons learned from several small-scale operations up to major accidents point out to the paramount role of preparedness (sampling material, questionnaires, laboratory network) and the communication of results. In essence, HBM after chemical incidents is a well-established and valuable tool for exposure assessment and risk communication if basic requirements are met.
73 Case study: Using a project-based approach to educate occupational hygiene students in the science of real-time monitoring
Authors: Linde Stefan , du Preez Sonette 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The use of real-time monitoring instruments to assess occupational exposure to workplace stressors is becoming increasingly popular. However, these instruments need to be used correctly to obtain trustworthy results. To accommodate this evolution, educators need to train students on the proper use and application of these instruments in the workplace. This study describes a project-based strategy used to train occupational hygiene students at the North-West University in various aspects of real-time monitoring.

Methodology
During this specific project, a group of three students, under the guidance of a supervisor, performed area monitoring for respirable particulates and noise at a clay brick factory using real-time monitoring instruments. For respirable particulates, the Nanozen DustCount 9000 and the conventional NIOSH 0600 was used, and the Svantek SV 104 dosimeter was used for noise monitoring. The project-based learning activities included 1) coaching and demonstrations from the supervisor, 2) individual practice, 3) collaboration, 4) in-field monitoring, 5) data analysis, 6) report writing, and 7) supervisory quality control.

Results
Thirteen sets of respirable dust and noise measurements were successfully collected, analysed and reported. Data from the real-time monitoring for respirable dust and noise could be linked to activities in the plant, such as the use of compressed air and shutdowns, which students found fascinating. Even though some mistakes made, errors were corrected during supervisory quality control, which helped the students to learn from the mistakes.

Conclusions
The project-based strategy incorporated communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and troubleshooting to guide students in the learning process, increase their confidence and enhance workplace readiness with regards to real-time monitoring.
260 Characterisation of emission and exposure to diesel engine exhaust from trackless mobile machinery in underground South African platinum mines
Authors: Manyike-Modau Amukelani , Brouwer Derk 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Mining remains one of the major economic drivers in South Africa, and there is a continued focus on long-term investments in mechanisation. The use of diesel-powered machines in mechanised mining has introduced a new risk among the mine workers in underground confined spaces. Evidence has shown a correlation between diesel exhaust engine (DEE) exposure and respiratory outcomes in mine workers. Recent mining research has shifted to focus on integrated control strategies/solutions to prevent exposure to DEE exposure.

Objective
The overarching aim of the research project was to determine characteristics of diesel engine exhaust emission at the source (aerodynamic size fractions) and to evaluate how interventions will impact the levels of DEE at the source and the workplace.

Methods
The study approach was a quantitative quasi-experimental designed study with an intervention component conducted in underground South African mines. DEE was measured at the source on the trackless mobile machinery (TMM) tailpipe, followed by different interventions and personal exposure measurements of diesel particulate matter (DPM) using EC as a surrogate measure for DPM and pollutant dispersion.

Results
The median particle number concentration significantly decreased post the interventions; an efficacy of 90-96% and 20-40% (p-value=0.001) was achieved for the machines that underwent maintenance plus installation of the DPF and machines that underwent maintenance only, respectively. Most particles emitted were between ≥0.01&lt;0.1µm and ≥0.1&lt;1µm.

Conclusion
A combination of control strategies (maintenance, retrofitting of machines with DPF, and ventilation) have shown great potential to reduce DEE in underground mines. Focus on implementing integrated strategies in preventing and reducing exposure to DEE is required.
328 Evaluation of a novel respirator fit testing apparatus (Sibata’s MT-11D): pilot study
Authors: Grinshpun Sergey , Yermakov Michael , Niu Xinyi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Performance of a respiratory protective device largely depends on how well this device fits the wearer. Therefore, quantitative fit testing of particulate respirators is very important for achieving the intended protection level. Millions of fit tests are conducted by workers every year using a US OSHA-accepted standard protocol and a PortaCount instrument (TSI Inc, Shoreview, MN, USA) which measures a respirator fit factor. Several alternative fit testing instruments have been recently developed. Among them is an MT-11D (Sibata Scientific Technology Ltd, Tokyo, Japan), The novel instrument, like the PortaCount, utilizes the condensation particle counting principle but it features an advanced saturation chamber and has other design advantages over the PortaCount. In this pilot study, the newly developed apparatus was evaluated against the PortaCount (utilized as the reference instrument) using the standard fit testing protocol. The evaluation was performed with three types of respirators – an N95 filtering facepiece respirator (FFR), P100 FFR, and half-mask elastomeric facepiece, each represented by three different models and manufacturers and donned on 6 subjects. The comparative testing and analysis showed a good correlation between the fit factors measured by the two instruments. It was concluded that the MT-11D is capable of identifying an inadequate fit of the tested respirators with high sensitivity and specificity. The novel fit testing apparatus demonstrated an acceptable performance and thus can be successfully deployed for the quantitative respirator fit testing.
25a - Risk assessment of diesel engine exhaust emissions
Authors: Hills Alex 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
As diesel engine exhaust emissions (DEEES) are a complex mixture of substances there has been little formal agreement on how exposures to them should be assessed. Several different monitoring and analysis methods have been developed, many relying on using a constituent of the exhaust emission as a surrogate or concentrating on either the particulate fraction or gaseous fraction only. In practice this means that results across monitoring surveys cannot be reliably correlated. This work is to propose a standard reference methodology for risk-based health assessments.
148d - Performance metrics towards adoption and operationalization of aerosol sensors
Authors: Cauda Emanuele 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The adoption and potential operationalization of aerosol sensors in occupational hygiene entails an understanding of the performance of a specific sensor to measure the aerosol of interest. Often, hygienists intend to monitor the airborne mass concentration of a certain aerosol and most sensor technologies can only provide estimates since they do not measure mass directly. Technological advancements in terms of sensors and algorithms will improve the performance of products in the future. But this might come with an increased cost and indirectly hindered adoption in most environments. Practices such as assessment and evaluation of the performance conducted periodically by the manufacturer and field assessment and calibration of the aerosol sensors can increase the confidence in the data generated. The field practices are not well established and hygienists should consider them as an important step of their activities. This contribution will provide an overview of the performance metrics for aerosol sensors that occupational hygienists should consider during the selection and adoption of the technologies. Most metrics can be applied to both personal and area aerosol monitors and for low-cost and medium-cost devices. For each metric, suggestions will be shared on how to measure it in the field and how hygienists can engage with manufacturers to receive information.
208b The role of WHWB in international efforts to eliminate asbestos use and deal with its legacy
Authors: Farquhar Alec , Hodgkiss Jason 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Globally, asbestos use is down by around 70% from the maximum level reached in the 1970s. However asbestos use remains a significant occupational exposure in a number of countries, particularly in Asia. There is also a tremendous amount of legacy asbestos in the built environment all over the world. So there is still much to do working towards a global ban on the use of asbestos, as well as eliminating legacy asbestos from the built environment.
WHWB has established a global Asbestos Working Group to focus on issues where our occupational health expertise can add the most value. This includes identifying substitutes for asbestos in manufacturing asbestos cement products, especially corrugated roofs. As well, we are identifying and promoting effective asbestos management approaches with a focus on best practices and resources of most value in countries with limited occupational health resources. We are also contributing to international work on developing impact and cost data which provide the business case for remediation and other prevention action. Finally, we are partnering with colleagues in countries facing challenges around asbestos.
208c - Noise and hearing conservation for informal sector workers in Mombasa, Kenya
Authors: Suleiman Abdulqadir Mohamad 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The purpose of the project is to promote occupational health among workers in the informal sector in Kenya. It started with work on prevention of exposure to high noise among metal workers. A group of 60 workers where provided with protective devices and training on health hazards associated with exposure to high noise. From the proceedings with a group of metal workers, we obtained a good picture on the challenges faced by the workers in the informal sector.
As a follow-up to this first project, we are working on providing solutions that will contribute in reducing the noise levels. The workers do, for example, all the metal cutting with a chisel and a hammer, and further shaping by other crude tools, which are a major source of the high noise. We are looking at providing alternatives such as metal pressers to reduce the noise level.
In addition, to the metal workers, we have started with providing training to three other groups in the sector: construction workers, carpenters and joinery, and another small group metals workers with a bit different product focus than the first group.
222e - Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons assessed by biomonitoring of firefighters during fire operations.
Authors: Koslitz Stephan , Taeger Dirk , Käfferlein Heiko , Pelzl Tim , Heinrich Birgit , Köster Daniel , Weiß Tobias , Behrens Thomas , Harth Volker , Brüning Thomas 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Exposure of firefighters to carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during real firefighting missions has been assessed to study the safety of the currently used operational clothing.
Firefighters (N=70) from professional and volunteer fire departments were recruited and 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) was quantified in their urine samples. For this purpose, baseline levels and exposures 2-4, 6-8, and 12 h after firefighting missions were assessed. Detailed information about the firefighting operation was assessed by questionnaire.
Baseline exposure to 1-OHP in all firefighters were, dependent on the individual smoking habits, within the normal range of the general population. After the missions, there was an approx. 2-fold increase of mean 1-OHP concentrations (0.13 vs. 0.25 1-OHP µg/g creatinine). Peak exposure was observed 12 h after the mission. However, most of the post-exposure levels (77 %) remained in the range of the general population. Operations in which elevated 1-OHP has been measured were characterized by smoke (visibility &lt;2 m), firefighting indoors, and, despite the use of respirators, being a member of the interior attack team. Nevertheless, these exposures were still low compared to many workers with industrial exposures to PAH.
The results indicate that the currently used protective clothing (including respirators) reduces exposures to PAHs. Nevertheless, the study identified specific situations such as firefighting under heavy smoke conditions which can lead to increased exposures on an individual level. Although personal protective equipment was assessed to be used during operations, skin absorption of PAHs must be assumed as a relevant route of exposure in these cases.
249a - Successful prevention strategies to prevent infectious airborne disease transmission in workers and our communities: a panel discussion
Authors: Sloan Lawrence 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Introduction & Moderation of the Panel: COVID-19 is a preventable disease, primarily caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus aerosols entering the respiratory system. There is no dose-response, no exposure limits, and no simple instrumental methods for detecting the virus. Since the virus travels with infected people, a primary challenge has been developing hazard/risk assessments and safe work procedures to prevent the virus from entering and exiting workplaces.
Four senior Occupational, Environmental, Health, and Safety (OEHS) professionals will present successful prevention initiatives that lowered the risk of occupational transmission of SARS-CoV-2. These initiatives encompass the development and content of Canada’s new respiratory protection standards; quantitative respiratory protection fit testing for South African health care workers; COVID-19 as a preventable occupational disease in the Canadian film industry. The panel is moderated by the CEO of the AIHA, an IOHA member-association, who will discuss making representations for worker and community prevention to national and state government agencies, as well as allied professional associations.
32 Case study - evaluation and management of schools with mercury-containing gymnasium floors
Authors: Lloyd Alan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
In the United States, polyurethane floors are often installed in school gymnasium floors as a substitute to hard wood. In recent years, it has been identified that many of these floors were installed with the use of phenylmercuric acetate as a catalyst and has resulted in the off gassing of mercury vapors.
Some states, such as New Jersey, recommend the removal of these floors if mercury vapors are identified at 0.08 ug/m3 or greater.
This case study will describe the initial bulk sampling of a gymnasium floor, exposure monitoring, remedial design, and removal procedures of a polyurethane gymnasium floor in an elementary school in New Jersey. The case study will review the positives and negatives of removing the floor as compared to management in place with additional ventilation. It will describe the sampling and analytical methods and procedures as well as the engineering controls used during remediation.
New Jersey was one of the first states to identify and address the hazards associated with the polyurethane floors. This case study is an attempt to share the value of the testing and remediation to determine if a greater focus should be required on a global scale.
121 The factors influencing nursing staff retention in the ICU setting: a scoping review
Authors: O’ Mara Sinead 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
The global shortage of intensive care nurses continues to be of critical concern in healthcare systems worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented pressure on healthcare units and on intensive care unit (ICU) nurses in particular, further strengthening requirements for research into the factors influencing turnover of ICU nurses and potential mitigation initiatives.

Aim
To map and synthesise the literature to identify factors influencing nursing retention/nurse turnover in ICUs and potential solutions to improve staff retention.

Methods
A scoping review of European literature was conducted on six databases. European studies focusing on factors influencing ICU nurse retention between 2010-2023 in the English language were considered.

Results
A total of 19 studies, including 17 cross-sectional studies, 1 mixed method, and 1 qualitative study, were reviewed. Four themes emerged; demographic factors; job satisfaction; patient-related factors and moral distress amongst ICU nurses; and work environment and moral distress amongst ICU nurses. Moral distress emerged as an overarching theme affecting ICU nurse retention.

Conclusion
A high prevalence of turnover was observed, influenced by multifaceted factors which occur simultaneously. Moral distress emerged as a central theme impacting both job satisfaction and burnout leading to turnover. It is paramount that healthcare organisations address these factors to improve ICU nurse retention and the quality of patient care through job satisfaction and a positive working environment, thereby reducing moral distress.
142 Comparative analysis of permeation test results: EN 14325 vs. ISO 16602 for chemical protective clothing
Authors: Lin Yu-Wen , Chu Wei-Ming , Chang Cheng-Ping , Liu Li-Wen , Hung Po-Chen 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
EN 14325:2018 and ISO 16602:2012 provide guidelines for testing chemical protective clothing against chemicals with different criteria. Taiwan’s CNS primarily favours ISO 16602. This research tested Type 4 chemical protective clothing according to EN and ISO standards to evaluate data consistency and unity.

Methodology
Type 4 protective clothing from two manufacturers were selected for this study. Both fabric and seam components were encompassed for examinations. The tested chemicals were sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, and toluene. The permeation experiment procedures followed ISO and EN standards by applying horizontal and vertical permeation test apparatus in triplication. In total, 36 samples were tested. The breakthrough times (BT) were recorded according to the definitions of EN at a permeation rate of 1.0 μg/cm2-min and ISO at 0.1 μg/cm2-min.

Results
There were no significant differences in the BTs between the ISO and EN criteria with the p-Value &gt; 0.05 by the Mann–Whitney U test. However, comparing types of test apparatus (vertical vs. horizontal), types of seams (binding vs. taping), and components (fabric vs. seam), all the BTs are significantly different (p-Value &lt; 0.05). Toluene immediately broke through the tested Type 4 clothing, i.e., less than 15 seconds.

Conclusions
The BTs of the vertical test apparatus are shorter than the BTs of horizontal results. The effect of gravity might be counted for the results. Seams are usually considered to be the weak parts of protective clothing. The binding seams were more vulnerable than the fabric. The chemical resistance tests of these components should be included as ISO requirements.
156 Evaluation of cough and sneeze aerosol distribution while maintaining social distance in a confined space
Authors: Lu Ping-Feng 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, many countries recommended social distances to prevent aerosol transmission. But in some cases, if there is insufficient ventilation condition especially in a stagnant air space, or other ventilation conditions, droplets from coughs or sneezes may have different potential infection impacts.
In this study, a TSI Aerodynamic Particle Sizer® (APS™) 3321 spectrometer was used to measure the aerosol size distributions of coughs and sneezes from volunteer subjects. The APS detects particles in the 0.37 to 20 μm range, with high-resolution sizing from 0.5 to 20 μm aerodynamic diameter. And it was placed in the sitting breathing area (80 cm height) in front of the volunteers in a testing chamber (2.0*2.0*2.1 m³). The social distance was 6 feet. The APS was used to sample for 1 minute after each action and was continued to sample the self-preserving distribution for aerosol coagulation for 30 minutes. The results showed after continuous monitoring for 30 minutes, the sneezing droplet range of male and female was between 0.523 ~ 5.425 μm, and the coughing droplet was in 0.523 ~ 4.371 μm; the mode droplet size of sneezing was 17.154 μm (0.08 mg/m³) for male and was about 14.855 μm (0.11 mg/m³) for female. Moreover, the mode droplet size of coughing for male was 10.366 μm (0.06 mg/m³), and 11.14 μm (0.02 mg/m³) for female, the droplet of a sneeze was larger and heavier than that of a cough while maintaining social distance after 30 minutes’ suspension and coagulation.
273 The provision of low cost, accessible OHTA training in the Asian environment - ANOH’s inputs
Authors: Hibbs Philip , PARK Dooyong , Elms Terry , Eva Brian 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The Asian Network of Occupational Hygienists [ANOH] has as its primary goal the enhancement of occupational hygiene practice within its sphere of influence. The multi cultural environment presents a very broad spectrum of Occupational Health and Safety systems, ranging from embryonic to fully operational.
Demand for OH training and services sharply increased with economic development and industrialization in the last decades in the Asian region. However, in the lesser developed systems and regions, the cost of quality OHTA, training packages is commercially prohibitive, and thus limiting Occupational Hygiene influence in the associated workforces.
ANOH is providing various training opportunities including OHTA training packages, at both the W201 and selected W5XX levels, which are delivered free of cost to selected participants by experienced, qualified, volunteer trainers.
The establishment and ongoing program, including selection of location, logistic issues, availability of equipment and the management of associated costs will be described/discussed within this paper.