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Assessment of Indoor Air Quality for Group-Housed Macaques (Macaca spp.). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12141750. [PMID: 35883296 PMCID: PMC9311621 DOI: 10.3390/ani12141750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is strongly associated with animal health and wellbeing. To identify possible problems of the indoor environment of macaques (Macaca spp.), we assessed the IAQ. The temperature (°C), relative humidity (%) and concentrations of inhalable dust (mg/m3), endotoxins (EU/m3), ammonia (ppm) and fungal aerosols were measured at stationary fixed locations in indoor enclosures of group-housed rhesus (Macaca mulatta) and cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis). In addition, the personal exposure of caretakers to inhalable dust and endotoxins was measured and evaluated. Furthermore, the air circulation was assessed with non-toxic smoke, and the number of times the macaques sneezed was recorded. The indoor temperature and relative humidity for both species were within comfortable ranges. The geometric mean (GM) ammonia, dust and endotoxin concentrations were 1.84 and 0.58 ppm, 0.07 and 0.07 mg/m3, and 24.8 and 6.44 EU/m3 in the rhesus and cynomolgus macaque units, respectively. The GM dust concentrations were significantly higher during the daytime than during the nighttime. Airborne fungi ranged between 425 and 1877 CFU/m3. Personal measurements on the caretakers showed GM dust and endotoxin concentrations of 4.2 mg/m3 and 439.0 EU/m3, respectively. The number of sneezes and the IAQ parameters were not correlated. The smoke test revealed a suboptimal air flow pattern. Although the dust, endotoxins and ammonia were revealed to be within accepted human threshold limit values (TLV), caretakers were exposed to dust and endotoxin levels exceeding existing occupational reference values.
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Hoffmeyer F, Beine A, Lotz A, Kleinmüller O, Nöllenheidt C, Zahradnik E, Nienhaus A, Raulf M. Upper and lower respiratory airway complaints among female veterinary staff. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2021; 95:665-675. [PMID: 34669024 PMCID: PMC8938376 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-021-01798-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective Working with animals is characterized by exposure to particulate, biological or chemical matter, and respiratory complaints are common. The aim of our cross-sectional study was to assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and diagnoses among veterinary staff. Methods Participants working in veterinary practices were examined and a detailed questionnaire was used to collect data. IgE tests to common and animal allergens were performed to specify sensitization. Associations with respiratory outcomes were analysed using logistic regression models while controlling for potential confounders. Results Atopy was seen in 31% of the 109 female participants. Symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis were the most frequent complaints (n = 92; 84%). In 18% the diagnosis was confirmed by physicians. Symptoms of upper and lower airways were highly correlated and an asthma diagnosis was confirmed in 11% of participants. Modelling revealed that sensitization against cats/dogs was a significant risk factor for respiratory symptoms of upper [odds ratio (OR) 4.61; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13–18.81] and lower airways (OR 5.14; 95% CI 1.25–21.13), physician-confirmed rhinoconjunctivitis (OR 13.43; 95% CI 1.69–106.5) and asthma (OR 9.02; 95% CI 1.16–70.39) in assistant staff of small-animal practices. Conclusions In several cases, rhinoconjunctivitis worsened after entering the profession. Atopy and specific sensitization to cats/dogs were risk factors for health impairments. Thus, to implement preventive measures, veterinary practice staff should be educated that upper respiratory tract symptoms are not harmless and should be diagnosed and treated early.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Hoffmeyer
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Germany.
| | - A Beine
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Germany
| | - A Lotz
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Germany
| | - O Kleinmüller
- Institute for Health Service Research in Dermatology and Nursing (IVDP), Center for Epidemiology and Heath Service Research in Nursing (CVcare), Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - C Nöllenheidt
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Germany
| | - E Zahradnik
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Germany
| | - A Nienhaus
- Institute for Health Service Research in Dermatology and Nursing (IVDP), Center for Epidemiology and Heath Service Research in Nursing (CVcare), Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Occupational Medicine, Hazardous Substances and Health Research (AGG), Institution for Statutory Accident Insurance and Prevention in the Health and Welfare Services (BGW), Hamburg, Germany
| | - M Raulf
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, 44789, Bochum, Germany
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Parker JA, Boles C, Buerger AN, Fung ES, Maier A. Derivation of an occupational exposure limit for β-glucans. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 123:104959. [PMID: 34019963 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2021.104959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
β-Glucans are abundant bacterial, yeast, and fungal cell wall polysaccharides that have been shown to activate the immune system. Establishment of an occupational exposure limit (OEL) for β-glucan exposure is critical to the protection of worker health, as these exposures have been linked to immunosuppressive and inflammatory reactions and possibly the development of respiratory diseases. Detectable concentrations of β-glucans have been identified in common occupational inhalation exposure scenarios, such as in the agricultural and waste management sectors. However, no published exposure benchmarks for inhalation of β-glucans are available for workers or the general population. Thus, a health-based OEL for inhalation exposure of workers to β-glucans was derived based on consideration of human and non-human effect data for this class of compounds and contemporary risk assessment methods. The weight of the evidence indicated that the available data in humans showed significant methodological limitations, such as lack of a representative study size, appropriate control population, and clear dose-response relationship. Thus, an OEL of 150 ng/m3 was derived for β-glucans based on the most relevant nonclinical study. This OEL provides an input to the occupational risk assessment process, allows for comparisons to worker exposure, and can guide risk management and exposure control decisions.
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Duquette-Lozeau K, Létourneau V, Lemieux J, Fournel S, Côté C, Godbout S, Duchaine C. Production of composted recycled manure solids from a Canadian dairy farm: Impact on microbial air quality in experimental conditions. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2021; 71:413-421. [PMID: 33030410 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2020.1832620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Recycled manure solids (RMS) produced in dairy farms from fresh manure need to be sanitized before using them as bedding material. However, the impact on air quality of composting RMS remains unknown. Four RMS composting methods were tested during a 10-day aging of piles in experimental chambers: static windrow (SW), turned windrow (TW), SW following drum composting for 24 h (DC24) or SW following drum composting for 72 h (DC72). Air samples were collected using a SASS®3100 Dry Air Sampler on days 0 (pilling of the RMS), 5, and 10. Bacteria (16S rRNA genes), Penicillium/Aspergillus, A fumigatus, and 11 human pathogenic bacteria (e.g. Klebsiella pneumonia) were quantified by qPCR while endotoxins and dust particles were, respectively, measured by LAL assays and with a DustTrakTM DRX Aerosol Monitor. On day 0, RMS produced by SW and TW yielded the lowest concentrations of airborne bacteria, while DC24 resulted in the lowest levels of Penicillium/Aspergillus and dust particles. SW method led on day 5 to the lowest concentration of bacteria and Penicillium/Aspergillus, and DC24 and DC72 to the lowest concentration of airborne dust. On day 10, SW and TW piles were associated with the lowest levels of Penicillium/Aspergillus and dust particles. A significant difference was observed between concentration of airborne bacteria, Penicillium/Aspergillus and endotoxins before and during the turnover of TW piles. None of the studied human pathogens was detected in the air samples. Results of the present study suggest that SW and TW are the most promising methods for the production of composted RMS with respect to microbial air quality. However, the experimental chambers do not accurately represent commercial dairy barns and further research on these composting methods is necessary. Finally, the study highlights that bedding material and its management may be determinant factors for air quality in dairy barns.Implications: The research evaluated the impact on microbial air quality of composting recycled manure solids (RMS) produced from fresh cow manure. RMS need to be composted or sanitized before using them as bedding material for animals. The impact on animal health of RMS still needs to be confirmed, while the effect on air quality and the health of dairy farmers is unknown. In the present study, microbial air quality associated with four RMS composting methods was investigated. Data revealed that two methods resulted in lower aerosolization of dust particles, endotoxins, molds, and bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Duquette-Lozeau
- Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et de bio-informatique, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Valérie Létourneau
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Joanie Lemieux
- Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et de bio-informatique, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Sébastien Fournel
- Département des sols et de génie agroalimentaire, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Caroline Côté
- Research and Development Institute for the Agri-Environment (IRDA), Québec, Canada
| | - Stéphane Godbout
- Research and Development Institute for the Agri-Environment (IRDA), Québec, Canada
| | - Caroline Duchaine
- Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et de bio-informatique, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Grzyb J, Pawlak K. Impact of bacterial aerosol, particulate matter, and microclimatic parameters on animal welfare in Chorzów (Poland) zoological garden. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:3318-3330. [PMID: 32914308 PMCID: PMC7788024 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10680-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Zoos are very popular facilities visited by entire families with children, who come there to watch live animals. Zoos also provide workplaces for a large number of people directly looking after the animals. For places designed to house animals, regardless of whether they are farm animals, pets, or zoo animals, a higher concentration of both dust and potentially harmful bioaerosols can be expected. Unfortunately, there are almost no studies concerning the concentration of bacterial bioaerosols and particulate matter in animal shelters that would answer the question whether the level of these pollutants is constant or variable and dependent on a particular zoo, group of animals, their number in enclosures, or season. This study aimed to assess the levels of bacterial aerosol in rooms intended for animals (giraffes, camels, elephants, kangaroos, and colobinae) in the Silesian Zoological Garden in Chorzów (Poland). The bioaerosol samples were collected using a six-stage Andersen cascade impactor to assess the concentrations and size distribution of airborne bacteria. Particulate matter (PM10) was assessed using an electronic dust meter. Measurements of microclimate parameters were carried out using the Airflow™ Instruments Velocity Meter TA440, while gas concentrations were determined applying GFG Microtector II G450. The results showed that the concentration of airborne bacteria varied significantly between facilities for the analyzed animal groups. The lowest concentration of the total bacterial aerosol was observed in enclosures for colobinae (approx. 850 CFU/m3), while the highest-in rooms for elephants (approx. 105,600 CFU/m3). The average share of respirable fraction of bacteria was quite high, with values ranging from 62.9 (colobinae) to 86.9% (elephants), indicating potential harmfulness to the health of exposed people. PM10 concentrations were relatively low (10-86 μg/m3) and did not exceed the limit values for occupational exposure. Moreover, the levels of bacterial bioaerosol in almost all cases did not exceed the limit values. As the animals constitute a significant source of bioaerosol, attention should be paid to thorough cleaning of animals and their shelters, as well as maintaining appropriate levels of microclimate parameters in the facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Grzyb
- Department of Microbiology and Biomonitoring, University of Agriculture in Kraków, Mickiewicza Ave 24/28, 30-059, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Pawlak
- Department of Zoology and Animal Welfare, University of Agriculture in Kraków, Mickiewicza Ave 24/28, 30-059, Kraków, Poland
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Sigsgaard T, Basinas I, Doekes G, de Blay F, Folletti I, Heederik D, Lipinska-Ojrzanowska A, Nowak D, Olivieri M, Quirce S, Raulf M, Sastre J, Schlünssen V, Walusiak-Skorupa J, Siracusa A. Respiratory diseases and allergy in farmers working with livestock: a EAACI position paper. Clin Transl Allergy 2020; 10:29. [PMID: 32642058 PMCID: PMC7336421 DOI: 10.1186/s13601-020-00334-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Farmers constitute a large professional group worldwide. In developed countries farms tend to become larger, with a concentration of farm operations. Animal farming has been associated with negative respiratory effects such as work-related asthma and rhinitis. However, being born and raised or working on a farm reduces the risk of atopic asthma and rhinitis later in life. A risk of chronic bronchitis and bronchial obstruction/COPD has been reported in confinement buildings and livestock farmers. This position paper reviews the literature linking exposure information to intensive animal farming and the risk of work-related respiratory diseases and focuses on prevention. Animal farming is associated with exposure to organic dust containing allergens and microbial matter including alive microorganisms and viruses, endotoxins and other factors like irritant gases such as ammonia and disinfectants. These exposures have been identified as specific agents/risk factors of asthma, rhinitis, chronic bronchitis, COPD and reduced FEV1. Published studies on dust and endotoxin exposure in livestock farmers do not show a downward trend in exposure over the last 30 years, suggesting that the workforce in these industries is still overexposed and at risk of developing respiratory disease. In cases of occupational asthma and rhinitis, avoidance of further exposure to causal agents is recommended, but it may not be obtainable in agriculture, mainly due to socio-economic considerations. Hence, there is an urgent need for focus on farming exposure in order to protect farmers and others at work in these and related industries from developing respiratory diseases and allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Sigsgaard
- Department of Environment Occupation & Health, Dept of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, Build. 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - I Basinas
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - G Doekes
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - F de Blay
- Division of Asthma and Allergy, Department of Chest Diseases, University Hospital, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Strasbourg University, Strasbourg, France
| | - I Folletti
- Occupational Medicine, Terni Hospital, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - D Heederik
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - A Lipinska-Ojrzanowska
- Department of Occupational Diseases and Environmental Health, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - D Nowak
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany.,Comprehensive Pneumology Center Munich, Member DZL, German Centre for Lung Research, Munich, Germany
| | - M Olivieri
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - S Quirce
- Department of Allergy, Hospital La Paz Institute for Health Research (IdiPAZ) and CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | - M Raulf
- IPA Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - J Sastre
- Department of Allergy, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (Ciberes), Madrid, Spain
| | - V Schlünssen
- Department of Environment Occupation & Health, Dept of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, Build. 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - J Walusiak-Skorupa
- Department of Occupational Diseases and Environmental Health, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - A Siracusa
- Formerly Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Sauvé JF, Locke SJ, Josse PR, Stapleton EM, Metwali N, Altmaier RW, Andreotti G, Thorne PS, Hofmann JN, Beane Freeman LE, Friesen MC. Characterization of inhalable endotoxin, glucan, and dust exposures in Iowa farmers. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2020; 228:113525. [PMID: 32311660 PMCID: PMC8010939 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2020.113525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The observed deficit of lung cancer in farmers has been partly attributed to exposure to organic dusts and endotoxins based largely on surrogate metrics. To move beyond these surrogates for etiological studies, we characterized task-based and time-weighted average (TWA) exposure to inhalable endotoxin, (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan, and dust in Iowa farmers. METHODS We collected 320 personal inhalable dust samples from 32 farmers during 69 sample days in 2015 and 2016. Samples were collected using Button aerosol samplers and analyzed for endotoxin using a kinetic chromogenic amebocyte lysate assay, and for (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan using a Limulus endpoint assay. We assessed relationships between bioaerosol concentrations and selected tasks and farm characteristics using linear mixed-effects models. RESULTS Bedding work, hog handling, and working in barn/confinement buildings, grain bins, and grain elevators were associated with higher endotoxin exposure. We found a monotonic trend between higher endotoxin concentrations and increasing number of animals. Bedding work, cleaning, and feed/grain storage work were associated with higher (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan concentrations. The median concentrations by task spanned one order of magnitude for inhalable dust and two orders of magnitude for endotoxin and (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan. Pearson correlations between endotoxin and glucan concentrations were 0.22 for TWA exposure and 0.56 for task samples. CONCLUSIONS This characterization of exposure factors that influence bioaerosol concentrations can support the development of refined bioaerosol exposure metrics for future etiologic analyses of cancer and other health outcomes in farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-François Sauvé
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sarah J Locke
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Pabitra R Josse
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Emma M Stapleton
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Nervana Metwali
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Ralph W Altmaier
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Gabriella Andreotti
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Peter S Thorne
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Jonathan N Hofmann
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Laura E Beane Freeman
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Melissa C Friesen
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States.
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Ferraz PFP, Ferraz GAES, Leso L, Klopčič M, Barbari M, Rossi G. Properties of conventional and alternative bedding materials for dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:8661-8674. [PMID: 32600754 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The bedding material used in barns for dairy cows has a significant effect on animal welfare and performance. Bedding influences the duration in which animals remain lying down and, consequently, the processes of rumination and milk production. It is crucial to have a complete understanding of the properties of bedding materials and the effects of alternative bedding materials on dairy cattle. This paper aims to evaluate the physical, chemical, and biological properties of various alternative and conventional bedding materials for dairy cattle for use in compost bedded pack or freestall barn systems. We analyzed 50 samples of 17 bedding materials produced in 3 European countries. We analyzed physical properties including the water holding capacity, porosity, moisture content, bulk density, dry bulk density, and particle size. Chemical analyses were performed to determine the total N, total organic C, and C:N ratio. In the biological analyses, the Escherichia coli count, total bacteria count, coliform count, and Klebsiella spp. count were assessed. The results demonstrated how the physical properties of the bedding materials may influence the chemical and biological properties. All of the materials presented adequate chemical properties to be used as bedding material. The physical properties of the bedding materials differed widely among the materials except for the dry bulk density, which presented no difference. Moreover, the contamination of each studied microorganism was observed for each bedding material to determine which material had the lowest level of contamination. Posidonia oceanica, Miscanthus grass, and spelt husks could be considered as a potential alternative material for use as bedding material for dairy cows in both systems (i.e., composted bedded pack and freestall). This experiment illustrated the importance of performing thorough physical, chemical, and biological analyses before implementing a material as bedding for dairy cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Ferreira Ponciano Ferraz
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), PO Box 3037, CEP 37200-900 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Gabriel Araújo E Silva Ferraz
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), PO Box 3037, CEP 37200-900 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lorenzo Leso
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, Via San Bonaventura, 13 - 50145 Florence, Italy
| | - Marija Klopčič
- Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Animal Science, University of Ljubljana, Groblje 3, 1230 Domžale, Slovenia
| | - Matteo Barbari
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, Via San Bonaventura, 13 - 50145 Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rossi
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, Via San Bonaventura, 13 - 50145 Florence, Italy
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9
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Associations Between Bioaerosol Exposures and Lung Function Changes Among Dairy Workers in Colorado. J Occup Environ Med 2020; 62:424-430. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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10
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Ferreira Ponciano Ferraz P, Araújo e Silva Ferraz G, Leso L, Klopčič M, Rossi G, Barbari M. Evaluation of the Physical Properties of Bedding Materials for Dairy Cattle Using Fuzzy Clustering Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10020351. [PMID: 32098358 PMCID: PMC7070853 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The bedding materials used in dairy cow housing systems are extremely important for animal welfare and performance. A wide range of materials can be used as bedding for dairy cattle, but their physical properties must be analysed to evaluate their potential. In the present study, the physical properties of various bedding materials for dairy cattle were investigated, and different fuzzy clustering algorithms were employed to cluster these materials based on their physical properties. A total of 51 different bedding materials from various places in Europe were collected and tested. Physical analyses were carried out for the following parameters: bulk density (BD), water holding capacity (WHC), air-filled porosity (AFP), global density (GD), container capacity (CC), total effective porosity (TEP), saturated humidity (SH), humidity (H), and average particle size (APS). These data were analysed by principal components analysis (PCA) to reduce the amount of data and, subsequently, by fuzzy clustering analysis. Three clustering algorithms were tested: k-means (KM), fuzzy c-means (FCM) and Gustafson-Kessel (GK) algorithms. Furthermore, different numbers of clusters (2-8) were evaluated and subsequently compared using five validation indexes. The GK clustering algorithm with eight clusters fit better regarding the division of materials according to their properties. From this clustering analysis, it was possible to understand how the physical properties of the bedding materials may influence their behaviour. Among the materials that fit better as bedding materials for dairy cows, Posidonia oceanica (Cluster 6) can be considered an alternative material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Ferreira Ponciano Ferraz
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Minas Gerais 37200–900, Brazil;
- Correspondence:
| | - Gabriel Araújo e Silva Ferraz
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Minas Gerais 37200–900, Brazil;
| | - Lorenzo Leso
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, Via San Bonaventura, 13-50145 Florence, Italy; (L.L.); (G.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Marija Klopčič
- Department of Animal Science, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Groblje 3, 1230 Domžale, Slovenia;
| | - Giuseppe Rossi
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, Via San Bonaventura, 13-50145 Florence, Italy; (L.L.); (G.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Matteo Barbari
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, Via San Bonaventura, 13-50145 Florence, Italy; (L.L.); (G.R.); (M.B.)
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Islam MA, Ikeguchi A, Naide T. Concentrations of Aerosol Numbers and Airborne Bacteria, and Temperature and Relative Humidity, and Their Interrelationships in a Tie-Stall Dairy Barn. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E1023. [PMID: 31771315 PMCID: PMC6941166 DOI: 10.3390/ani9121023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Aerosol particles and airborne microorganisms are crucial factors of indoor air quality. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the interrelationships among aerosol numbers, various types of airborne bacteria, temperature, and relative humidity (RH) to decide which parameters have more significant relationships among them. The concentrations of aerosol numbers, airborne total aerobic bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Escherichia coli (E. coli) in the indoor air, as well as indoor and outdoor temperatures and RH, were assessed each week for a total of 20 days in a tie-stall dairy barn during the summer season in Tochigi, Japan. The mean concentrations of the fine aerosol numbers (0.3-2.0 µm) were greater than the mean concentrations of coarse aerosol numbers (5.0-10.0 µm). Among the airborne total aerobic bacteria, the mean concentration of airborne S. aureus was higher compared with airborne E. coli. More significant positive associations were found between outdoor environmental temperatures and aerosol numbers rather than indoor temperatures and aerosol numbers. All three types of airborne bacteria were associated with both outdoor and indoor environmental temperatures. These findings are crucial in the mitigation of aerosol numbers and airborne bacteria in the indoor air of dairy barns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Aminul Islam
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Engineering, United Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine & Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur 1706, Bangladesh
| | - Atsuo Ikeguchi
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Utsunomiya University, 350 Minemachi, Utsunomiya 321-8505, Japan;
| | - Takanori Naide
- Earth Environmental Service Co., Ltd., 17 Kanda-konyacho, Chiyodaku, Tokyo 101-0035, Japan;
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12
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Samadi S, Heederik DJJ, Zahradnik E, Rietbroek NNJ, van Eerdenburg F, Sander I, Raulf M, Wouters IM. Bovine Allergens in a Ruminant Clinic and Dairy Barns: Exposure Levels, Determinants, and Variability. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:663-673. [PMID: 29718069 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dairy farmers may develop specific sensitization and allergic airway diseases due to bovine allergens. However, dose-response relationships are lacking, and as yet little is known on bovine allergen exposure levels. Objective To investigate bovine allergen exposure levels in a ruminant clinic and dairy barns, and to assess exposure determinants and variability of exposure. Methods Samples were collected using active and passive airborne dust measurements in a ruminant clinic and several dairy barns. Bovine allergen levels were determined by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Linear mixed models were applied to explore the association between bovine allergen exposure levels and potential exposure determinants. Day-to-day within-worker and between-worker exposure variability was determined, as well as how exposure determinants affect exposure variability. Results Bovine allergens were measureable in all samples. Personal bovine allergen exposure levels in the ruminant clinic ranged from 0.10 to 24.8 µg/m3, geometric mean (GM) 1.34 µg/m3. Exposure levels varied dependent on job titles. Personal exposure levels in dairy barns ranged from 0.10 to 46.8 µg/m3, GM 1.47 µg/m3. Type of bedding materials in the barns appeared to be a significant determinant of bovine allergen levels. Compost bedding, particularly, increased allergen levels. Milking by robot was the most important determinant explaining between-worker exposure variability, while bedding was important as well. Bovine allergen levels in stationary measurements were somewhat lower than personal measurements (GM ratio 0.47). Bovine allergens could be readily detected in electrostatic dust-fall collector measurements. Conclusion This study provides insight in bovine allergen exposure levels and their determinants, which is a first step to investigate dose-response relationships between sensitization/allergy associated with exposure to bovine allergen levels in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Samadi
- Department of Occupational Health, Health Faculty, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.,Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dick J J Heederik
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Zahradnik
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA), Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Nancy N J Rietbroek
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, CN Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Frank van Eerdenburg
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, CN Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ingrid Sander
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA), Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Monika Raulf
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance (IPA), Institute of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Inge M Wouters
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
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13
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Mbareche H, Veillette M, Bilodeau GJ, Duchaine C. Fungal aerosols at dairy farms using molecular and culture techniques. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 653:253-263. [PMID: 30412870 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.10.345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure to harmful bioaerosols in industrial environments is a real threat to the workers. In particular, dairy-farm workers are exposed to high levels of fungal bioaerosols on a daily basis. Associating bioaerosol exposure and health problems is challenging and adequate exposure monitoring is a top priority for aerosol scientists. Using only culture-based tools does not express the overall microbial diversity and underestimate the large spectrum of microbes in bioaerosols and therefore the extended fungal profile that farmers are exposed to. The aim of this study was to provide an in-depth characterization of fungal exposure at Eastern Canadian dairy farms using qPCR and high-throughput sequencing methods. Specific primers were used for the quantification of Penicillium/Aspergillus and Aspergillus fumigatus in dairy farms air samples. Illumina Miseq sequencing of the ITS1 region provided sequences for the diversity analyses. The minimum and maximum concentration of Penicillium/Aspergillus ranged from 4.6 × 106 to 9.4 × 106 gene copies/m3 and from 1 × 104 gene copies/m3 to 4.8 × 105 gene copies/m3 for Aspergillus fumigatus, respectively. Differences in the diversity profiles of the five dairy farms support the idea that the novel approach identifies a large number of fungal taxa. The most striking differences include Microascus, Piptoporus, Parastagonospora, Dissoconium, Microdochium, Tubilicrinis, Ganoderma, Ustilago, Phlebia and Wickerhamomyces. The presence of a diverse portrait of fungi in air may represent a health risk for workers who are exposed on a daily basis. The broad spectrum of fungi detected in this study includes many known pathogens like Aspergillus, Acremonium, Alternaria and Fusarium. Adequate monitoring of bioaerosol exposure is necessary to evaluate and minimize risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Mbareche
- Centre de recherche de l'institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Quebec City, Qc, Canada; Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et de bio-informatique, Faculté des sciences et de génie, Université Laval, Quebec City, Qc, Canada
| | - Marc Veillette
- Centre de recherche de l'institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Quebec City, Qc, Canada
| | - Guillaume J Bilodeau
- Pathogen Identification Research Lab, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Caroline Duchaine
- Centre de recherche de l'institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Quebec City, Qc, Canada; Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et de bio-informatique, Faculté des sciences et de génie, Université Laval, Quebec City, Qc, Canada.
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14
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Bioaerosol Sampler Choice Should Consider Efficiency and Ability of Samplers To Cover Microbial Diversity. Appl Environ Microbiol 2018; 84:AEM.01589-18. [PMID: 30217848 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01589-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioaerosol studies aim to describe the microbial content and increase understanding of the aerosolization processes linked to diseases. Air samplers are used to collect, identify, and quantify bioaerosols. Studies comparing the performances of air samplers have typically used a culture approach or have targeted a specific microorganism in laboratory settings. The objective of this study was to use environmental field samples to compare the efficiencies of 3 high-airflow-rate samplers for describing bioaerosol diversity using a next-generation sequencing approach. Two liquid cyclonic impactors and one electrostatic filter dry sampler were used in four wastewater treatment plants to target bacterial diversity and in five dairy farms to target fungal diversity. The dry electrostatic sampler was consistently more powerful in collecting more fungal and bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Substantial differences in OTU abundances between liquid and dry sampling were revealed. The majority of the diversity revealed by dry electrostatic sampling was not identified using the cyclonic liquid impactors. The findings from this work suggest that the choice of a bioaerosol sampler should include information about the efficiency and ability of samplers to cover microbial diversity. Although these results suggest that electrostatic filters result in better coverage of the microbial diversity among the tested air samplers, further studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis. While it is difficult to determine a single universally optimal air sampler, this work provides an in-depth look at some of the considerations that are essential when choosing an air sampler for studying the microbial ecology of bioaerosols.IMPORTANCE Associating bioaerosol exposure and health problems is challenging, and adequate exposure monitoring is a priority for scientists in the field. Conclusions that can be drawn from bioaerosol exposure studies are highly dependent on the design of the study and the methodologies used. The air sampling strategy is the first methodological step leading to an accurate interpretation of what is present in the air. Applying new molecular approaches to evaluate the efficiencies of the different types of samplers used in the field is necessary in order to circumvent traditional approaches and the biases they introduce to such studies. The results and conclusions provided in this paper should be taken in consideration when conducting a bioaerosol study.
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15
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Pfister H, Madec L, Cann PL, Costet N, Chouvet M, Jouneau S, Vernhet L. Factors determining the exposure of dairy farmers to thoracic organic dust. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 165:286-293. [PMID: 29758401 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Bronchial respiratory diseases are more common in dairy farmers than in the general population, perhaps because the repeated inhalation of organic dust contributes to the development of these disorders. However, the factors determining the exposure of farmers to particles that can enter the lower bronchial tract and interact with it, i.e. the thoracic fraction of the inhalable dust, remain to be identified. We therefore measured the exposure of dairy farmers to thoracic organic dust and identified the farm features and tasks that increased exposure. We measured thoracic particles (n = 110) and farm characteristics and occupational tasks in 29 Brittany dairy farms. The mean (GM) (geometric standard deviation, GSD) concentration of thoracic dust in air inhaled by farmers was 0.24 mg/m3 (2.8) and the concentrations of endotoxins, Gram-positive bacteria and fungi in the thoracic fraction were 128 EU/m3 (4.0), 960 CFU/m3 (6.3) and 690 CFU/m3 (5.4), respectively. Model-based estimates of the association between exposure, farm features and tasks indicated that manual grain and feed handling and mechanical bedding spreading significantly increased exposure to thoracic dust, endotoxins, bacteria and fungi. Exposure to bacteria and fungi was reduced by cowsheds divided into cubicles, whereas using automatic muck scrappers in alleyway and automatic milking tended to increase exposure to bacteria and endotoxins. Finally, exposure to endotoxin and fungi were reduced by warmer farm buildings and well-ventilated buildings having walls with large openings. In conclusions, major occupational tasks and specific farm features determine the exposure of Breton dairy farmers to thoracic organic dust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Pfister
- Institut technique des gaz et de l'air, Saint-Grégoire, France; Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Laurent Madec
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France; EHESP School of Public Health, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Sanitary Engineering, Rennes, France
| | - Pierre Le Cann
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France; EHESP School of Public Health, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Sanitary Engineering, Rennes, France
| | - Nathalie Costet
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Martine Chouvet
- Institut technique des gaz et de l'air, Saint-Grégoire, France
| | - Stéphane Jouneau
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France; Service de Pneumologie, Centre de compétences des maladies pulmonaires rares de Bretagne, Hôpital Pontchaillou, Rennes, France
| | - Laurent Vernhet
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France.
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16
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Basinas I, Cronin G, Hogan V, Sigsgaard T, Hayes J, Coggins AM. Exposure to Inhalable Dust, Endotoxin, and Total Volatile Organic Carbons on Dairy Farms Using Manual and Automated Feeding Systems. Ann Work Expo Health 2018; 61:344-355. [PMID: 28355415 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxw023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Agricultural workers tend to have high exposures to organic dusts which may induce or exacerbate respiratory disorders. Studies investigating the effect of work tasks and farm characteristics on organic dust exposures among farm workers suggest that handling of animal feed is an important exposure determinant; however, the effect of the animal feeding system has not been explored in any detail. Objectives To measure the exposure of Irish dairy farmers to inhalable dust, endotoxin, and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) during parlour work and to explore whether levels of exposure to these agents depend on the applied feeding system in the farms. Methods Thirty-eight personal exposure measurements were collected from farmers across seven dairy farms. The farms used manual, loft, or semi-automated feeding systems. Information on worker tasks and farm characteristics was collected during the surveys. Associations between exposure concentrations and feeding systems, worker tasks, and other farm characteristics were explored in linear mixed-effect regression models with farmer identity treated as a random effect. Results Exposure concentrations were variable and had a geometric mean (GM; geometric standard deviation) of 1.5 mg m-3 (1.8) for inhalable dust and 128 EU m-3 (2.5) for endotoxin. More than 50% of the exposure measurements for endotoxin, and organic dust exceeded recommended health-based occupational exposure limits. Endotoxin levels were somewhat lower in farms using semi-automatic feeding systems when compared to those using manual feeding systems but in multivariate regression analysis associations were not statistically significant (β = -0.54, P = 0.4). Performance of activities related to handling and spreading of hay or straw was the strongest determinant for both inhalable dust and endotoxin exposure (β = 0.78, P ≤ 0.001; β = 0.72, P = 0.02, respectively). The level of dust exposure increased also as a consequence of a lower outdoor temperature, and higher ratio of distributed feed per cow (P = 0.01). Stationary measurements of TVOC and CO2 concentrations inside the dairy parlours had a GM of 180 ppb (1.9) and 589 ppb (1.3), respectively. The use of cow teat disinfectants and building ventilation were both strong predictors of TVOC concentrations within parlours. Conclusions Dairy farm workers can be exposed to high and variable levels of inhalable dust and endotoxin and may be at risk of respiratory disease. Results from this study suggest that exposure control strategies for organic dusts and TVOCs exposures should consider building ventilation and work tasks such as spreading of bedding material, using spray disinfectants and animal feeding. Until effective permanent engineering controls are established farm workers should be encouraged to wear respiratory protective equipment during these tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Basinas
- Centre for Human Exposure Science, Institute of Occupational medicine, Research Avenue North, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK
| | - Garvin Cronin
- School of Physics, National University of Ireland, Univeristy Road, Galway H91TK33, Ireland
| | - Victoria Hogan
- School of Health Sciences, National University of Ireland, Univeristy Road, Galway H91TK33, Ireland
| | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, Aarhus C 8000, Denmark
| | - James Hayes
- Royal College of Surgeons Ireland Hospital Group, Cavan & Monaghan Hospitals, Cavan, Ireland
| | - Ann Marie Coggins
- School of Physics, National University of Ireland, Univeristy Road, Galway H91TK33, Ireland
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17
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Davidson ME, Schaeffer J, Clark ML, Magzamen S, Brooks EJ, Keefe TJ, Bradford M, Roman-Muniz N, Mehaffy J, Dooley G, Poole JA, Mitloehner FM, Reed S, Schenker MB, Reynolds SJ. Personal exposure of dairy workers to dust, endotoxin, muramic acid, ergosterol, and ammonia on large-scale dairies in the high plains Western United States. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2018; 15:182-193. [PMID: 29157144 PMCID: PMC8641559 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2017.1403610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Dairy workers experience a high degree of bioaerosol exposure, composed of an array of biological and chemical constituents, which have been tied to adverse health effects. A better understanding of the variation in the magnitude and composition of exposures by task is needed to inform worker protection strategies. To characterize the levels and types of exposures, 115 dairy workers grouped into three task categories on nine farms in the high plains Western United States underwent personal monitoring for inhalable dust, endotoxin, 3-hydroxy fatty acids (3-OHFA), muramic acid, ergosterol, and ammonia through one work shift. Eighty-nine percent of dairy workers were exposed to endotoxin at concentrations exceeding the recommended exposure guidelines (adjusted for a long work shift). The proportion of workers with exposures exceeding recommended guidelines was lower for inhalable dust (12%), and ammonia (1%). Ergosterol exposures were only measurable on 28% of samples, primarily among medical workers and feed handlers. Milking parlor workers were exposed to significantly higher inhalable dust, endotoxin, 3-OHFA, ammonia, and muramic acid concentrations compared to workers performing other tasks. Development of large modern dairies has successfully made progress in reducing worker exposures and lung disease prevalence. However, exposure to endotoxin, dust, and ammonia continues to present a significant risk to worker health on North American dairies, especially for workers in milking parlors. This study was among the first to concurrently evaluate occupational exposure to assayable endotoxin (lipid A), 3-hydroxy fatty acids or 3-OHFA (a chemical measure of cell bound and noncell-bound endotoxins), muramic acid, ergosterol, and ammonia among workers on Western U.S. dairies. There remains a need for cost-effective, culturally acceptable intervention strategies integrated in OHS Risk Management and production systems to further optimize worker health and farm productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret E Davidson
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- f Edith Cowan University , Perth , Western Australila , Australia
| | - Joshua Schaeffer
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Maggie L Clark
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Sheryl Magzamen
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Elizabeth J Brooks
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Thomas J Keefe
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Mary Bradford
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Noa Roman-Muniz
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- c Department of Animal Science , Colorado State University, Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - John Mehaffy
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Gregory Dooley
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
| | - Jill A Poole
- d University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha , Nebraska
| | - Frank M Mitloehner
- e Western Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , UC Davis , Davis , California
| | - Sue Reed
- f Edith Cowan University , Perth , Western Australila , Australia
| | - Marc B Schenker
- e Western Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , UC Davis , Davis , California
| | - Stephen J Reynolds
- a Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- b High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety , Colorado State University , Fort Collins , Colorado
- f Edith Cowan University , Perth , Western Australila , Australia
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18
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Schaeffer JW, Reynolds S, Magzamen S, VanDyke A, Gottel NR, Gilbert JA, Owens SM, Hampton-Marcell JT, Volckens J. Size, Composition, and Source Profiles of Inhalable Bioaerosols from Colorado Dairies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:6430-6440. [PMID: 28492313 PMCID: PMC9552963 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b00882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Particulate matter emissions from agricultural livestock operations contain both chemical and biological constituents that represent a potential human health hazard. The size and composition of these dusts, however, have not been well described. We evaluated the full size distribution (from 0 to 100 μm in aerodynamic diameter) and chemical/biological composition of inhalable dusts inside several Colorado dairy parlors. Four aerodynamic size fractions (<3, 3-10, 10-30, and >30 μm) were collected and analyzed using a combination of physiochemical techniques to understand the structure of bacterial communities and chemical constituents. Airborne particulate mass followed a bimodal size distribution (one mode at 3 μm and a second above 30 μm), which also correlated with the relative concentrations of the following microbiological markers: bacterial endotoxin, 3-hydroxy fatty acids, and muramic acid. Sequencing of the 16S-rRNA components of this aerosol revealed a microbiome derived predominantly from animal sources. Bacterial genera included Staphlyococcus, Pseudomonas, and Streptococcus, all of which have proinflammatory and pathogenic capacity. Our results suggest that the size distribution of bioaerosols emitted by dairy operations extends well above 10 μm in diameter and contains a diverse mixture of potentially hazardous constituents and opportunistic pathogens. These findings should inform the development of more effective emissions control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Neil R Gottel
- The Microbiome Center, Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory , Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
- The Microbiome Center, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Jack A Gilbert
- The Microbiome Center, Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory , Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
- The Microbiome Center, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois 60637, United States
| | - Sarah M Owens
- The Microbiome Center, Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory , Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
| | - Jarrad T Hampton-Marcell
- The Microbiome Center, Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory , Lemont, Illinois 60439, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois 60607, United States
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19
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Basinas I, Sigsgaard T, Bønløkke JH, Andersen NT, Omland Ø, Kromhout H, Schlünssen V. Feedback on Measured Dust Concentrations Reduces Exposure Levels Among Farmers. ANNALS OF OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE 2016; 60:812-24. [PMID: 27245773 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mew032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high burden of exposure to organic dust among livestock farmers warrants the establishment of effective preventive and exposure control strategies for these workers. The number of intervention studies exploring the effectiveness of exposure reduction strategies through the use of objective measurements has been limited. OBJECTIVE To examine whether dust exposure can be reduced by providing feedback to the farmers concerning measurements of the exposure to dust in their farm. METHODS The personal dust levels of farmers in 54 pig and 26 dairy cattle farms were evaluated in two measurement series performed approximately 6 months apart. Detailed information on work tasks and farm characteristics during the measurements were registered. Participating farms were randomized a priori to a control (n = 40) and an intervention group (n = 40). Shortly after the first visit, owners of intervention farms only received a letter with information on the measured dust concentrations in the farm together with some general advises on exposure reduction strategies (e.g. use of respirators during certain tasks). Relationships between measured dust concentrations and intervention status were quantified by means of linear mixed effect analysis with farm and worker id as random effects. Season, type of farming, and work tasks were treated as fixed effects. Changes in exposure over time were explored primarily at a farm level in models combined, as well as separate for pig and cattle farmers. RESULTS After adjustment for fixed effects, an overall reduction of 23% in personal dust exposures was estimated as a result of the intervention (P = 0.02). Exposure reductions attributable to the intervention were similar across pig and cattle farmers, but statistically significant only for pig farmers. Intervention effects among pig farmers did not depend on the individuals' information status; but among cattle farmers a significant 48% reduction in exposure was found only among individuals that reported to have been informed. No systematic differences in changes over time considering the use of respiratory protection between the intervention and control groups were observed. CONCLUSION The results of the present study suggest reductions between 20 and 30% in personal exposure to inhalable dust to be feasible through simple information provided to the farm owners regarding actual levels of exposure together with instructions on basic measures of prevention. The exact reasons for these effects are unclear, but likely they involve changes in behavior and working practices among intervention farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Basinas
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark;
| | - Torben Sigsgaard
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Jakob Hjort Bønløkke
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Nils Testrup Andersen
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Øyvind Omland
- 2.Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aalborg University Hospital, Havrevangen 1, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark; 3.Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7 D2, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Hans Kromhout
- 4.Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; 5.National Research Center for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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Particulate matter, endotoxin, and worker respiratory health on large Californian dairies. J Occup Environ Med 2015; 57:79-87. [PMID: 25563544 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess respiratory exposures and lung function in a cross-sectional study of California dairy workers. METHODS Exposure of 205 dairy and 45 control (vegetable processing) workers to particulate matter and endotoxin was monitored. Pre- and postshift spirometry and interviews were conducted. RESULTS Geometric mean inhalable and PM2.5 concentrations were 812 and 35.3 μg/m3 versus 481.9 and 19.6 μg/m3, respectively, for dairy and control workers. Endotoxin concentrations were 329 EU/m3 or 1122 pmol/m3 and 13.5 EU/m3 or 110 pmol/m3, respectively, for dairy and control workers. In a mixed-effects model, forced vital capacity decreased across a work shift by 24.5 mL (95% confidence interval, -44.7 to -4.3; P = 0.018) with log10 (total endotoxin) and by 22.0 mL (95% confidence interval, -43.2 to -0.08; P = 0.042) per hour worked. CONCLUSIONS Modern California dairy endotoxin exposures and shift length were associated with a mild acute decrease in forced vital capacity.
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21
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Basinas I, Sigsgaard T, Kromhout H, Heederik D, Wouters IM, Schlünssen V. A comprehensive review of levels and determinants of personal exposure to dust and endotoxin in livestock farming. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2015; 25:123-37. [PMID: 24280684 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2013.83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The respiratory health effects of livestock farming have been on debate for more than three decades. Endotoxin-contaminated organic dusts are considered as the most important respiratory hazards within livestock environments. A comprehensive review of the knowledge from studies assessing the exposure status of livestock farmers is still to be published. The present study reviews research published within the last 30 years on personal exposure of livestock farmers to organic dust and endotoxin, focusing on studies on pig, poultry and cattle farmers. Applied measurement methods and reported levels of personal exposure for the total, inhalable and respirable fractions are summarized and discussed, with emphasis on the intensity of exposure and the size and distribution of the reported exposure variability. In addition, available evidence on potential determinants of personal exposure to dust and endotoxin among these farmers are documented and discussed, taking results from exposure determinant studies using stationary sampling approaches into consideration. Research needs are addressed from an epidemiological and industrial hygiene perspective. Published studies have been heterogeneous in design, and applied methodologies and results were frequently inadequately reported. Despite these limitations and the presence of an enormous variability in personal exposure to dust and endotoxin, no clear downward trends in exposure with time were observed, suggesting that working environments within stables remains largely uncontrolled. Exposure control and prevention strategies for livestock farmers are urgently required. These should focus on the development of novel and improved methods of controlling dust and endotoxin exposure within stables based on the currently available knowledge on determinants of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Basinas
- Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Department of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Department of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hans Kromhout
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Dick Heederik
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Inge M Wouters
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Department of Public Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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22
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Exposure levels, determinants and IgE mediated sensitization to bovine allergens among Danish farmers and non-farmers. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2014; 218:265-72. [PMID: 25534699 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2014.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Revised: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bovine allergens can induce allergic airway diseases. High levels of allergens in dust from stables and homes of dairy farmers have been reported, but sparse knowledge about determinants for bovine allergen levels and associations between exposure level and sensitization is available. OBJECTIVE To investigate levels and determinants of bovine allergen exposure among dairy, pig and mink farmers (bedroom and stable), and among former and never farmers (bedroom), and to assess the prevalence of bovine allergen sensitization in these groups. METHODS In 2007-2008, 410 settled dust samples were collected in stables and in bedrooms using an electrostatic dust-fall collector over a 14 day period among 54 pig farmers, 27 dairy farmers, 3 mink farmers as well as 71 former and 48 never farmers in Denmark. For farmers sampling was carried out both during summer and winter. Bovine allergen levels (μg/m(2)) were measured using a sandwich ELISA. Determinants for bovine allergen exposure in stables and bedrooms were explored with mixed effect regression analyses. Skin prick test with bovine allergen was performed on 48 pig farmers, 20 dairy farmers, 54 former and 31 never farmers. RESULTS Bovine allergen levels varied by five orders of magnitude, as expected with substantially higher levels in stables than bedrooms, especially for dairy farmers. Bovine allergen levels in bedrooms were more than one order of magnitude higher for dairy farmers compared to pig farmers. Former and never farmers had low levels of bovine allergens in their bedroom. Bovine allergen levels during summer appeared to be somewhat higher than during winter. Increased bovine allergen levels in the bedroom were associated with being a farmer or living on a farm. Mechanical ventilation in the bedroom decreased bovine allergen level, significant for dairy farmers β=-1.4, p<0.04. No other significant effects of either sampling or residence characteristics were seen. Allergen levels in dairy stables were associated to type of dairy stable, but not to other stable or sampling characteristics. Sensitization to bovine allergens was only found in one pig farmer. CONCLUSION This study confirms high bovine allergen levels in dairy farms, but also suggests sensitization to bovine allergens among Danish farmers to be uncommon. Furthermore the importance of a carrier home effect on allergen load is emphasized. Whether the risk for bovine sensitization is related to the allergen level in the stable or the dwelling remains to be determined.
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Thilsing T, Madsen AM, Basinas I, Schlünssen V, Tendal K, Bælum J. Dust, endotoxin, fungi, and bacteria exposure as determined by work task, season, and type of plant in a flower greenhouse. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 59:142-57. [PMID: 25389370 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/meu090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Greenhouse workers are exposed to dust, endotoxin, fungi, and bacteria potentially causing airway inflammation as well as systemic symptoms. Knowledge about determinants of exposure is a prerequisite for efficient prevention through knowledge-based reduction in exposure. The objective of this study was to assess the occupational exposure in a flower greenhouse and to investigate the impact of work tasks on the intensity and variability in exposure. METHODS Seventy-six personal full-shift exposure measurements were performed on 38 employees in a Danish flower greenhouse producing Campanula, Lavandula, Rhipsalideae, and Helleborus. The samples were gravimetrically analysed for inhalable dust. Endotoxin was assessed by the Limulus Amoebocyte Lysate test and culture-based quantification of bacteria and fungi was performed. Information on the performed tasks during sampling was extracted from the greenhouse electronic task logging system. Associations between log-transformed exposure outcomes, season, and work tasks were examined in linear mixed-effects regression with worker identity as random effect. RESULTS Measured concentrations ranged between 0.04 and 2.41mg m(-3) for inhalable dust and between 0.84 and 1097 EU m(-3) for endotoxin exposure, with the highest mean levels measured during Lavandula and Campanula handling, respectively. Personal exposure to fungi ranged between 1.8×10(2) and 3.4×10(6) colony-forming units (CFU) m(-3) and to bacteria between 1.6×10(1) and 4.2×10(5) CFU m(-3). Exposure to dust, endotoxin, fungi, and bacteria differed between seasons. Packing Lavandula, sticking, potting, and grading Rhipsalideae, and all examined tasks related to Campanula production except sticking increased dust exposure. Endotoxin exposure was increased during sticking Campanula and pinching or packing Rhipsalideae, and fungi exposure was elevated by subtasks performed in the research and development area for Campanula, and by potting, packing/dumping Campanula. Sticking and working with subtasks in the research and development area for Campanula increased bacteria exposure. CONCLUSION This study revealed moderate dust exposure levels compared to the levels observed in other greenhouse productions and other occupations with organic dust exposure such as farming. However, high exposures to bacteria and fungi were detected during selected tasks and the proposed health-based endotoxin exposure limit of 90 EU m(-3) was exceeded in 30% of the samples, which may have health implications for the employees. Exposure levels were found to vary depending on the tasks performed, and thereby results can be used to direct task-based initiatives to reduce workplace exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Thilsing
- Research Unit for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Winsløvparken 19, 3., DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B Winsløvsvej 9A, DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark
| | - Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Ioannis Basinas
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Nørrebrogade 44, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Kira Tendal
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Jesper Bælum
- Research Unit for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Winsløvparken 19, 3., DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark Research Unit of General Practice, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B Winsløvsvej 9A, DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark
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Reynolds SJ, Nonnenmann MW, Basinas I, Davidson M, Elfman L, Gordon J, Kirychuck S, Reed S, Schaeffer JW, Schenker MB, Schlünssen V, Sigsgaard T. Systematic review of respiratory health among dairy workers. J Agromedicine 2014; 18:219-43. [PMID: 23844790 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2013.797374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The dairy industry is changing on a global scale with larger, more efficient operations. The impact of this change on worker health and safety, specifically, associations between occupational lung disease and inhalation exposures, has yet to be reported in a comprehensive review of the scientific literature. Therefore, a three-tier process was used to identify information using a keyword search of online databases of scientific literature. Of the 147 citations reviewed, 52 met initial screening criteria, and 30 were included in this review. Dairy workers experience lung conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, chronic bronchitis, and cancer. Recent pulmonary function studies have identified obstructive lung changes among dairy farm workers. The increased scale of dairy production with significant changes in technology and work practices has altered inhalation exposure patterns among dairy workers. The inhalation exposure in the dairy work environment may elicit differing inflammatory responses in relation to timing of initial exposure as well as to repeated exposures. Few studies have measured inhalation exposure while simultaneously assessing the impact of the exposure on lung function of dairy farm workers. Even fewer studies have been implemented to assess the impact of aerosol control technology to reduce inhalation exposure. Future research should evaluate worker exposure to aerosols through a task-based approach while utilizing novel methods to assess inhalation exposure and associated inflammatory responses. Finally, potential solutions should be developed and tested to reduce inhalation exposure to inflammatory agents and respiratory diseases in the dairy farm work environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Reynolds
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, USA.
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Basinas I, Sigsgaard T, Erlandsen M, Andersen NT, Takai H, Heederik D, Omland Ø, Kromhout H, Schlünssen V. Exposure-affecting factors of dairy farmers' exposure to inhalable dust and endotoxin. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 58:707-23. [PMID: 24748620 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/meu024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies on determinants of dairy farmers' exposure to dust and endotoxin have been sparse and so far none has addressed the combined effect of tasks and farm characteristics. OBJECTIVE To study whether and how work tasks and specific stable characteristics influence the level of dairy farmers' personal exposure to inhalable dust and endotoxin. METHODS We applied an observational design involving full-shift repeated personal measurements of inhalable dust and endotoxin exposure among 77 subjects (owners and farm workers) from 26 dairy farms. Performed tasks were self-registered in activity diaries, and information on stable characteristics was collected through personal interviews and walk-through surveys. Associations between exposure, tasks, and stable characteristics were examined in linear mixed-effect models with individual and farm treated as random effects. Separate as well as combined models for tasks and stable characteristics were elaborated. RESULTS The 124 personal samples collected had a geometric mean level (geometric standard deviation) of 360 EU m(-3) (3.8) for endotoxin exposure and of 1.0mg m(-3) (2.7) for dust exposure. Identified factors that increased endotoxin exposure included a lower outdoor temperature and use of slope-based or back-flushed slurry systems along with milking, distribution of bedding, and handling of feed and seeds in barns. For dust, exposure was higher when fully automatic (robotic) milking was used and during re-penning of animals, handling of feed and seeds, handling of silos and when distributing bedding. Dust exposure increased also as a result of use of rail feed dispensers in a model without fully automatic milking. CONCLUSIONS The current exposure to dust and in particular endotoxin among Danish dairy farmers demand effective strategies to reduce their exposure. The present findings suggest that future interventions should focus on feeding and manure handling systems. Use of respirators during handling of feed and distribution of bedding should be advised until adequate risk management measures have been established. The expected increased use of fully automatic milking in the future might increase dust exposure of dairy farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Basinas
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Torben Sigsgaard
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Mogens Erlandsen
- 2.Department of Public Health, Institute of Biostatistics, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Nils T Andersen
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Hisamitsu Takai
- 3.Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, Finlandsgade 22, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Dick Heederik
- 4.Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, PO Box 80178, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Øyvind Omland
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark 5.Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aalborg University Hospital, Havrevangen 1, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Hans Kromhout
- 4.Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, PO Box 80178, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vivi Schlünssen
- 1.Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University, Bartholins Allé 2, bg 1260, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark 6.Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Center, Aarhus University Hospital, Nørrebrogade 44, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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