bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
232 The hunt for the mysterious isocyanic acid
Authors: Tinnerberg Håkan , Runström Gunilla , Storsjö Tobias , Johansson Anders , Andersson Lena 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Isocyanic acid (ICA) has been known for a long time but with limited interest. However, an increasing interest is seen in the literature. ICA has the structural formula HNCO, which is the simplest monoisocyanate, and is structurally very similar to methylisocyanate, the substance that caused the disaster in Bhopal. Due to historical reasons, Sweden, as the only country in the world, has an occupational exposure limit to ICA, but with very vague documentation behind it. In recent studies ICA has been found in the outer environment, but also during i.e. frying food and it is also shown to take part in a protein modification called carbamoylation.
The aim of the study was to perform a survey of occupational exposure to isocyanic acid as a basis for suitable work environments where future studies on health effects can be performed.
We have performed, in total, 185 stationary and personal exposure measurements for ICA in 23 different environments (restaurants, food industries, manufacturers using urea at high temperatures and users of such materials, thermal decomposition of polyurethane, welding in carpet, diathermy treatment, smoking, engine emissions and urban air).
ICA can be found in many environments in very low concentrations. The highest exposures were found in operations where materials containing urea was produced or used and in cigarette smoke. The highest measured personal exposure was ~0.1 mg/m3 (approximately 5 times the Swedish OEL). To further study health effects after exposure to ICA we suggest performing studies in environments where urea is used at elevated temperatures.
234 Measured exposure to soot among Swedish chimney sweeps with focus on sweeping techniques and fuels used
Authors: Klang Therese , Molnár Peter , Tinnerberg Håkan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Earlier studies have shown that chimney sweeps have an increased risk for many severe health outcomes. These excessive risks have been related to their exposure to soot with the conclusion that the exposure must be reduced.
To contribute to effective measures to reduce chimney sweepers soot exposure, our knowledge about the exposure needs to be extended, which is the overall aim of our project. In this study the difference in airborne exposure to soot has been evaluated between different sweeping techniques and fuels used.

Methodology
A self-monitoring method was used for collection of exposure data. Exposure to airborne soot was measured as black carbon (BC) with micro-aethalometers (microAeth® model MA200 and AE51, AethLabs USA), recording the BC-levels each minute. Personal repeated measurements were performed for eight consecutive workdays for 20 chimney sweeps (13 men and seven women). Each participant filled out a diary with work tasks performed. The measurements with micro-aethalometer were correlated with the diary notes to evaluate exposure levels for different tasks.
The sweeping techniques compared were traditional sweeping and sweeping with rotating rods. The fuels studied were oil, wood and pellets.

Results
Among the preliminary results a large variation of soot exposure was found between different individuals. Different sweeping techniques and fuel used influenced the exposure, with a lower exposure for rotating rod technique and a higher exposure for pellets.

Conclusions
With the large variability in soot exposure found between participants, we are positive that it is possible to reduce the exposure among chimney sweeps.
253 Findings of the Workers’ exposure survey (WES) on cancer risk factors in six European countries
Authors: Vilahur Nadia , Cavet Marine , Schneider Elke , Irastorza Xabier 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
EU-OSHA has implemented the largest European survey to date to estimate worker’s exposure to known cancer risk factors.

Methods
WES is based on the Australian workplace exposures study (AWES) and has been thoroughly adapted to the European work context. It uses the occupational exposure assessment tool for epidemiological studies (OccIDEAS) to estimate the probability and level of exposure to 24 selected cancer risk factors in all sectors of activity, including chemical and physical risks like asbestos, benzene, chromium (VI), diesel engine exhaust emissions, nickel, respirable crystalline silica, ultraviolet radiation or wood dust, among others. Estimates of exposure and co-exposures for each respondent are based on detailed answers from workers regarding their job tasks in the last working week; obtained via telephone interviews conducted by trained interviewers in each country.

Results
After fieldwork, 24402 interviews were available for analysis from six countries: Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland and Spain. We will present demographic information on respondents and describe the main findings regarding assessment of exposures and co-exposures to the cancer risk factors. Additional information will be provided on the circumstances of exposure for some of the most spread cancer risk factors (solar ultraviolet radiation, diesel engine exhaust emissions, formaldehyde, benzene, and respirable crystalline silica)

Conclusions
WES results contribute to the Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and support the EU strategic framework on health and safety at work 2021-2027. Data could be used to refine estimates of the burden of harm from carcinogens and help prioritise agents for prevention and monitoring actions.
254 Impact of meteorological conditions on measurement strategy and measured exposures in the Industrial Minerals Association long term Dust Monitoring Programme
Authors: Blagrove-Hall Nicola , Houba Remko , Bussalleu Alonso , Kromhout Hans 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
We analyzed 34,790 simultaneously collected respirable dust and quartz measurements from April 1, 2002-March 31, 2021 at 158 sites across Europe and stored within the Industrial Minerals Association-Dust Monitoring Programme (IMA-DMP) database. From the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts model we extracted 309,833 outdoor temperature, precipitation and windspeed data for the geocoded site addresses for the time period of this study, only weekdays were included. Meteorological conditions for measurement and non-measurement days were compared. Dust and quartz exposure levels were modeled with hierarchical linear mixed models with long-term time trend, temperature, precipitation and windspeed as fixed effects and mineral, site and job title as random effects.
Exposure measurements were collected over 10,863 days at 158 sites, representing 3.5% of days covered by IMA-DMP. Measurement and non-measurement days had slightly different meteorological conditions. Measurement days had slightly higher median temperature: 12.370C vs 11.060C, less median precipitation: 0.28mm v 0.31mm, and lower median outdoor wind speed: 2.13m/s vs 2.33m/s. Respirable dust concentrations decreased with increasing outdoor windspeed and precipitation (respectively 11% and 6% per 10 mm). For respirable quartz the effect was stronger (respectively 17% and 16% per 10 mm). The effect of temperature was marginal for respirable dust, but above 60C respirable quartz concentrations decreased rapidly with 50% per 100C.
Marginal differences in meteorological conditions were seen between measurements days and non-measurement days. Respirable quartz concentrations were more sensitive to meteorological conditions. Long-term changes in meteorological conditions (climate change) might affect indoor workplace respirable dust and especially respirable quartz concentrations.
255 ESG 101 and how occupational hygienists and safety professionals are navigating the “S”
Authors: Redinger Charles , Staves Malcolm 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
It’s trite to say the world changed in 2020. The pandemic and a cascade of issues that precipitated from it has necessitated new ways of thinking about organizational governance and purpose. While ESG (environment, social, governance) standards, methods, and ideas were in the mix before 2020, they became amplified. The “S” of ESG has in particular taken on more attention along with human capital management. This session provides an overview of the human capital/ESG space, including ideas, concepts, standards, and metrics. Emphasis is place on how OHS professionals are supporting their organizations the development ESG reporting structures and their use. The importance of data quality is highlighted. Participants are encourage to consider how ESG can be leveraged to increase worker health and well-being.
259 Investigating welding fume exposure in professional welders using biomonitoring and metabolomics approaches
Authors: Rafiee Ata , Pei Lei , Quecke Emily , Quémerais Bernadette 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
We aimed to investigate the health effects attributed to welding fume exposure in professional welders using biomonitoring and metabolomics approaches. The cohort included 38 welders as the case group and 36 electricians as the control group, recruited from various facilities across the province of Alberta, Canada. Air sampling was performed throughout the work shift. Fasting urine samples were collected from the welders and controls. The identification of metals and metabolites in the samples was performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP/MS) and Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS-MS), respectively. Data analyses were conducted using STATA version 19.0 and MetaboAnalyst version 5.0. Significantly higher levels of As, Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, and Ni were observed in the urine of welders compared to controls (p &lt; 0.05). Regarding the metabolomics profile, we identified 92 metabolites in the urine samples of the studied groups. Multivariate receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified metabolites, such as beta-hydroxybutyric acid, asparagine, ornithine, choline, propionic acid, and histidine, as biomarkers for welding fume exposure (AUC &gt; 0.7). These metabolites exhibited significantly higher levels in welders than in controls. In addition, our findings suggest that smoking, welding experience, respirator usage, and age significantly affect the concentrations of certain urinary metabolites in professional welders. Our study highlights the potential benefits of using biomonitoring and metabolomics approaches to investigate the adverse health effects of welding fume exposure. However, we recommend further investigations to explore the underlying mechanisms of these associations and the effects of other factors.
Keywords: Biomonitoring, Exposure assessment, Welding fumes, Metabolomics.
261 Application of a new custom-made activated charcoal cloth patch in different real work conditions
Authors: Claus Rani , Van De Velde Dahlia , Lemaire Frauke E I , Vranckx Karine , Hoet Peter H M , Ronsmans Steven , Vanoirbeek Jeroen A J 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Assessing dermal exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is becoming increasingly important in industrial settings. This study evaluated the applicability of a novel custom-made activated charcoal cloth (ACC) patch in various workplaces. Forty-nine workers carrying out different tasks were included in this assessment: desk working (“no VOC exposure”), sandblasting (“no VOC exposure”), cherry-picker driving (“dermal vapour exposure”), repairing (“low liquid exposure), degreasing (“medium liquid exposure”), spray painting (“high liquid exposure”), and immersing (“immersion exposure”). Each participant wore three ACC patches (thumb, index finger and neck). Additionally, two glove types were tested during the immersion task: all-round nitrile gloves and highly chemical-resistant gloves. One extra patch was placed on the outside of the glove to assess the ingress of VOCs. In general, the ACC patches captured various levels of VOCs ranging from levels below LOQ (“no VOC exposure”) to 0.4 mg/cm^2 (“dermal vapour exposure”) and 6.5 mg/cm^2 (“immersion exposure”). Furthermore, the ACC patches allowed us to differentiate the level of direct hand contact by comparing the amount of VOCs found on the fingers versus the neck. Workers carrying out direct liquid handling tasks, such as spray painting, showed over 75% hand versus neck exposure than workers only exposed via vapour (1-30%). Finally, the percentage of ingress could be calculated during the immersion task by comparing the outer patch with the inner patches. When wearing nitrile gloves, 5% of ingress was observed versus nearly 0% when wearing chemical-resistant gloves. These findings demonstrate the applicability of the custom-made ACC patches to measure dermal VOC exposure in different work conditions.
269 Global mining - case study in international risk management: controls through ICMI cyanide code
Authors: Renton Lydia 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

As hygienists, expertise in specific hazardous materials or processes happens over a career. The Cyanide Code focuses exclusively on safe management of cyanide produced, transported and used for the recovery of gold in the international mining industries, and on mill tailings and leach solutions. The Cyanide Code was developed for gold and silver mining operations, and addresses production, transport, storage, and use of cyanide and the decommissioning of cyanide facilities in our global environment and workplaces. It focuses on hazard and risk awareness, controls and measurement, and is applicable for gold mining in all countries.
Using the nine principles of the “Code”, this session provides the pathway for ‘cradle-to-grave’ use of cyanide in gold and silver mining and practical experiences of an approved ICMI (International Cyanide Management Institute) auditor as she navigates the Code and conducts audits globally.

Objectives
Understand what is the International Cyanide Management Code and its 9 Principles for gold mining operations. Pathways to assist gold and silver mines with their environmental and safety programs and relate them to cyanide use. Overview of a specific chemical management system, applicable for other toxic substances.
274 Oto-Acoustic Emissions – Why this is a game-changing development in hearing conversation and a true and effective approach to health surveillance
Authors: Shepheard Rob 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The most vulnerable structure in our auditory system are the outer hair cells in our cochlear. These are first injured by loud sound and ototoxins. A significant percentage of these cells can be damaged before hearing loss becomes measurable on the traditional hearing test i.e. audiometry. With this ‘hidden’ damage we will have difficulties with our hearing without detection on an audiogram. As health conversation crusaders, we need to highlight any effect from damaging exposure quickly to prevent injury. OAE can detect damage at an early stage and so actions can be taken to improve control measures and prevent hearing loss. This approach also helps motivate the individual early on to protect their health.
Audiometry is a behavioural test which was first developed in the 1800s. It is useful in measuring hearing loss. However, the point of a hearing conservation programme is to prevent hearing loss, not to measure it. Audiometry used in isolation as a test that measures hearing loss only gives a useful result when preventing hearing loss has failed. OAE compliments the audiogram. OAE has been used for over 30 years to test the hearing of new born babies. It is non-invasive, it does not require a soundproof room, and it is completely objective. It measures the function of the outer hair cells which will show at the very earliest opportunity evidence of reduced function of our inner ear before we lose our hearing. We can then be proactive and prevent hearing loss.
277 Recent outbreak of Legionella in various health care centers in Argentina, occupational hygiene in emerging economies countries
Authors: Chamorro Armando 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The recent outbreak of Legionellosis in various Healthcare Center in the Tucuman Province reached worldwide news sending many local environmental and occupational health professionals to seek technical assistance under a highly stressful scenario. The absence of a local Waterborne Legionella Prevention Plan for Healthcare coupled with the myth that Legionella does not colonize in the region was one of the factors to overcome until case’s clinical Legionellosis confirmations became evident. The presentation illustrates, from an occupational health perspective, the water source conditions at the time of outbreak, the affected hospitals infrastructure and operation and maintenance programs status and the remedial actions taken until affected buildings conditions were brought under control.
286 Fire Rescue Service & Hygiene: Victoria’s approach to protecting firefighter health during and post their service to the community
Authors: Macgill David 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Firefighting is a career of great community importance; however it is fraught with personal risk to health with the profession classified as a Group 1 Known Carcinogen by the IARC in addition to hazards such as noise & vibration, thermal stressors (heat and cold), vehicle emissions, biological substances and radioactive materials.
The complex, dynamic and reactive environments which firefighters operate in limit the ability to accurately measure exposures and predict their effects to the individual or workgroups. These challenges have required a different approach to health protection through hygiene controls.
Fire Rescue Victoria was established in 2020 bringing all paid career firefighters from two separate organisations into one professional firefighting and rescue force. As part of it’s Health, Safety and Wellbeing Model professionals in the Hygiene, Psychological, Safety, Human Movement, Safety Systems, Injury & Return to Work, Business Data Insights and Doctors have been brought together to support and manage the Health, Safety & Wellbeing needs of firefighters from recruits through early career development into mid-career specialisation, late career leaders and through into retirement. This talk will discuss the benefits of being a hygienist in an integrated health, safety and wellbeing model.
290 More attention needed for prevention of work related cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Willems Jolanda , Wijntjens Gilbert 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The WHO/ILO joint estimated that cardiovascular diseases are the second largest work-related burden of death worldwide, with 398.000 and 347.000 deaths for stroke and ischaemic heart disease, respectively. In its strategic framework for health and safety at work 2021-2027, the European Commission focuses on improved prevention of work-related cardiovascular diseases. Yet, little is still known about the precise relations between work-related risks and cardiovascular diseases. Occupational hygienist, therefore, pay relatively little attention to the prevention of work related cardiovascular disease while literature is scarce and guidelines are lacking. This hinders deployment of appropriate preventive measures in the workplace.

Methods
We delivered an narrative review of the (emerging) literature that addresses occupational risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.

Results
Several work-related risk factors are linked to the development of cardiovascular diseases. Among them are psychosocial stress, noise, long working days hours, night work, work-related air pollution and various chemicals.

Conclusion
There is sufficient evidence in contemporary literature linking cardiovascular diseases with work-related risks to raise awareness to reduce these risks or take targeted measures. This could include reducing unnecessary night work, electrification of means of transport and specific advice regarding exposure to hazardous substances that can cause cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular diseases due to work-related factors deserve more attention from the occupational hygienist, given the high occupational mortality rates.
297 Benzene risk management – how to plan and operate with a low OEL
Authors: Jensen Ellen Katrine 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The occupational exposure limit for benzene is decreasing. EU are moving towards 0,2 ppm (8 hours) in the years to come, and Norway implemented this low value in their regulations in 2021. Another national requirement is that carcinogens shall be handled in closed systems if this is technically feasible. This presentation covers how to manage safe work per today in oil & gas and moving towards improved solutions.

Methodology
For new installations, exposure free design solutions to be included from the start and followed up along the project maturation. Research and technology development are also in the toolbox heading for exposure free operations. For existing installations, a design change will take time, and we need to provide safe work with respect to benzene even where there is no closed system. Risk management covers the use of robots, technical controls (ventilation/extraction), organizational controls (training, time restrictions), and PPE.

Results
Mapping and sharing good design solutions, including both the technical and the user experience perspective, is an important driver for improvement. Gaps are input to technology development. In operation, safe work measures should be accompanied by assurance activities to confirm compliance, i.e., technical system checks (leakages, extraction rate) and personal exposure measurement of benzene.

Conclusion
Designing oil and gas facilities to meet low benzene exposure requirements is challenging, and there is a need for a step-up, both within new technologies and implementing existing technologies. Some of these solutions as well as examples of risk management today, are presented.
300 Case study: EMS workers noise exposure from the environment and earphones, and its effect on auditory perception
Authors: Sæle Lars Andreas 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
What started out as an EHS incident report at Oslo university hospital, developed to be a master thesis as part of the master program in EHS at Norwegian University of Science and Technology. An EMS worker claimed to have been exposed to a loud noise in his radio earpiece, which caused him to rip it out while driving.
Aiming to determine whether or not this claim could be true and to determine the most contributing source of noise in an EMS worker daily tasks, a study would be conducted at Oslo ambulance station, down town area. 200 dosimeter noise measurements was conducted, along with 30 around the clock measurements from different earpieces with the help of an artificial ear. In addition, 23 audiometry’s was performed before and after shift to check for temporary threshold shift in the EMS-workers auditory perception.
The results still showcased that environmental noise was the most contributing factor with the majority of measurements above 130dBC. Noise from the earpiece would be abnormally loud, even on lower settings, also showing large differences between different earpieces with the “occlusion effect” being a major contributor. Also 20-25% of the employees had a temporary threshold shift of 10dB HL in the frequency’s 0.75, 2.0 and 4.0 kHz.
From this study, actions have been made by the Oslo university hospital to lower noise exposure from both the environment and radio. Before actions were made, 20-25% of the EMS workers were at high risk of permanent hearing loss.