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Lovas S, Varga O, Loney T, Ádám B. Chemical pollutants in closed environments of transportation and storage of non-dangerous goods - Insufficient legislation, low awareness, and poor practice in Hungary. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:473-490. [PMID: 35128979 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2035325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Several chemical pollutants can accumulate within the closed environments of transportation and storage. Pollutants are mainly residues of pesticides, volatile organic compounds and components of diesel exhaust. The study objectives were to (i) review the regulations relevant to occupational chemical exposures in closed environments of inland transportation and storage; and (ii) explore the practice of preventing these exposures. A systematic search and content analysis of international and Hungarian nation legal documents were carried out. In addition, semi-structured interviews with occupational health and safety (OHS) professionals and warehouse managers were conducted. Analysis of legal documents highlighted the lack of explicit regulations on the investigated problem. The 21 interviews revealed that the participants had limited knowledge about the pollutants; they deemed chemical exposure rare and related health effects negligible. The revealed limitations indicate that this field should be more specifically regulated and OHS professionals should be better informed about these workplace hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szabolcs Lovas
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Varga
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tom Loney
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Balázs Ádám
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Moreira BRDA, Cruz VH, Barbosa Júnior MR, Meneses MD, Lopes PRM, da Silva RP. Agro-residual biomass and disposable protective face mask: a merger for converting waste to plastic-fiber fuel via an integrative carbonization-pelletization framework. BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY 2022:1-22. [PMID: 36124332 PMCID: PMC9476463 DOI: 10.1007/s13399-022-03285-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Incineration and landfilling offer possibilities for addressing high-rate management of COVID-waste streams. However, they can be costly and environmentally unsustainable. In addition, they do not allow to convert them to fuels and chemicals as waste-to-energy and waste-to-product technologies. Therefore, we analyzed whether integrating hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and pelletization can allow converting the surgical face mask (SFM) and biomass to composite plastic-fiber fuel (CPFF). We blended the plastic material and corncob, peanut shell, or sugarcane bagasse at the proportion of 50:50 (%, dry mass basis) for HTC. We performed the thermal pretreatment of blends in an autoclaving reactor at 180 °C and 1.5 MPa. Then we pelletized the hydrochars in a presser machine at 200 MPa and 125 °C. By analyzing the evidence from our study, we recognized the viability of combining the SFM and agricultural residues for CPFF from comparable technical features of our products to standards for premium-grade wood pellets. For instance, the elemental composition of their low-meltable ash was not stoichiometrically sufficient to severely produce slagging and fouling in the equipment for thermal conversion. Although they contained synthetic polymers in their structures, such as polyethylene from filter layers and nylon from the earloop, they emitted CO and NOx below the critical limits of 200 and 500 mg m-3, respectively, for occupational safety. Therefore, we extended the knowledge on waste-to-energy pathways to transform SFM into high-quality hybrid fuel by carbonization and pelletization. Our framework can provide stakeholders opportunities to address plastic and biogenic waste in the context of a circular economy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13399-022-03285-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Rafael de Almeida Moreira
- Department of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Victor Hugo Cruz
- Department of Plant Production, School of Agricultural and Technological Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Dracena, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Marcelo Rodrigues Barbosa Júnior
- Department of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Mariana Dias Meneses
- Department of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Paulo Renato Matos Lopes
- Department of Plant Production, School of Agricultural and Technological Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Dracena, São Paulo Brazil
| | - Rouverson Pereira da Silva
- Department of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal, São Paulo Brazil
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Hinz R, 't Mannetje A, Glass B, McLean D, Douwes J. Neuropsychological symptoms in workers handling cargo from shipping containers and export logs. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2022; 95:1661-1677. [PMID: 35524148 PMCID: PMC9489567 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-022-01870-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Acute poisonings of workers handling shipping containers by fumigants and other harmful chemicals off-gassed from cargo have been reported but (sub)-chronic neuropsychological effects have not been well studied. METHODS This cross-sectional study assessed, using standardised questionnaires, current (past 3-months) neuropsychological symptoms in 274 container handlers, 38 retail workers, 35 fumigators, and 18 log workers, all potentially exposed to fumigants and off-gassed chemicals, and a reference group of 206 construction workers. Prevalence odds ratios (OR), adjusted for age, ethnicity, smoking, alcohol consumption, education, personality traits and BMI, were calculated to assess associations with the total number of symptoms (≥ 3, ≥ 5 or ≥ 10) and specific symptom domains (neurological, psychosomatic, mood, memory/concentration, fatigue, and sleep). RESULTS Compared to the reference group, exposed workers were more likely to report ≥ 10 symptoms, statistically significant only for retail workers (OR 6.8, 95% CI 1.9-24.3) who also reported more fatigue (OR 10.7, 95% CI 2.7-42.7). Container handlers with the highest exposure-duration were more likely to report ≥ 10 symptoms, both when compared with reference workers (OR 4.0, 95% CI 1.4-11.7) and with container handlers with shorter exposure duration (OR 7.5, 95% CI 1.7-32.8). The duration of container handling was particularly associated with symptoms in the memory/concentration domain, again both when compared to reference workers (OR 8.8, 95% CI 2.5-31.4) and workers with the lowest exposure-duration (OR 6.8, 95% CI 1.5-30.3). CONCLUSION Container handlers may have an increased risk of neuropsychological symptoms, especially in the memory/concentration domain. Retail workers may also be at risk, but this requires confirmation in a larger study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Hinz
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand.
| | - Andrea 't Mannetje
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Bill Glass
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Dave McLean
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jeroen Douwes
- Research Centre for Hauora and Health, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
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Hinz R, 't Mannetje A, Glass B, McLean D, Douwes J. Airborne Fumigants and Residual Chemicals in Shipping Containers Arriving in New Zealand. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 66:481-494. [PMID: 34657959 PMCID: PMC9030136 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab090] [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: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Airborne fumigants and other hazardous chemicals inside unopened shipping containers may pose a risk to workers handling containers. Methods Grab air samples from 490 sealed containers arriving in New Zealand were analysed for fumigants and other hazardous chemicals. We also collected grab air samples of 46 containers immediately upon opening and measured the total concentration of volatile organic compounds in real-time during ventilation. Additive Mixture Values (AMV) were calculated using the New Zealand Workplace Exposure standard (WES) and ACGIH Threshold Limit Values (TLV) of the 8-h, time-weighted average (TWA) exposure limit. Regression analyses assessed associations with container characteristics. Results Fumigants were detectable in 11.4% of sealed containers, with ethylene oxide detected most frequently (4.7%), followed by methyl bromide (3.5%). Other chemicals, mainly formaldehyde, were detected more frequently (84.7%). Fumigants and other chemicals exceeded the WES/TLV in 6.7%/7.8%, and 7.8%/20.0% of all containers, respectively. Correspondingly, they more frequently exceeded ‘1’ for the AMV-TLV compared to the AMV-WES (25.7% versus 7.8%). In samples taken upon opening of doors, fumigants were detected in both fumigated and non-fumigated containers, but detection frequencies and exceedances of the WES, TLV, and AMVs were generally higher in fumigated containers. Detection frequencies for other chemicals were similar in fumigated and non-fumigated containers, and only formaldehyde exceeded both the WES and TLV in both container groups. Volatile compounds in container air reduced rapidly during ventilation. Some cargo types (tyres; personal hygiene, beauty and medical products; stone and ceramics; metal and glass; and pet food) and countries of origin (China) were associated with elevated airborne chemical and fumigant concentrations. Conclusion Airborne chemicals in sealed containers frequently exceed exposure limits, both in fumigated and non-fumigated containers, and may contribute to short-term peak exposures of workers unloading or inspecting containers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Hinz
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Andrea 't Mannetje
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Bill Glass
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Dave McLean
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jeroen Douwes
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
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Van de Sijpe P, Canals ML, Jensen O, Lucas D. Acute occupational phosphine intoxications in the maritime shipping sector: a scoping review. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2021; 77:636-652. [PMID: 34657582 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2021.1990829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The aim is to assess the prevalence and knowledge on acute occupational exposure to phosphine in the shipping industry. We followed PRISMA guidelines for scoping review. We searched in 4 databases without language and date restrictions for scientific articles in peer-reviewed and gray literature. We found 13 peer-reviewed articles and 63 articles in gray literature. These covered 56 incidents from 1963 to 2019 for a total of 254 victims and 22 fatalities. There is an increase in the number of reported cases over the last 20 years. Neurologic and gastrointestinal symptoms are predominant, and hospitalization is needed in 80% of cases. Our review underlined the principal risk as gas exposure through leaks between holds and the ventilation system. Further studies on the knowledge and the prevention in order to improve good practices onboard, prevent the risk of fire explosion, and a global reporting system of new cases are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Luisa Canals
- Maritime Medicine, Spanish Society of Maritime Medicine, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Olaf Jensen
- Centre of Maritime Health and Society, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern, Odense, Denmark
| | - David Lucas
- French Maritime Medicine Society, Brest, France
- ORPHY Laboratory, Universite de Bretagne Occidentale, Brest, France
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Hinz R, Mannetje A', Glass B, McLean D, Pearce N, Douwes J. Exposures to Fumigants and Residual Chemicals in Workers Handling Cargo from Shipping Containers and Export Logs in New Zealand. Ann Work Expo Health 2020; 64:826-837. [PMID: 32504467 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous studies have reported high concentrations of airborne fumigants and other chemicals inside unopened shipping containers, but it is unclear whether this is reflective of worker exposures. METHODS We collected personal 8-h air samples using a whole-air sampling method. Samples were analysed for 1,2-dibromoethane, chloropicrin, ethylene oxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen phosphide, methyl bromide, 1,2-dichloroethane, C2-alkylbenzenes, acetaldehyde, ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, methanol, styrene, and toluene. Additive Mixture Values (AMVs) were calculated using the New Zealand Workplace Exposure standard (WES) and American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) of the 8-h, time-weighted average exposure limit. Linear regression was conducted to assess associations with work characteristics. RESULTS We included 133 workers handling shipping containers, 15 retail workers unpacking container goods, 40 workers loading fumigated and non-fumigated export logs, and 5 fumigators. A total of 193 personal 8-h air measurements were collected. Exposures were generally low, with >50% below the limit of detection for most chemicals, and none exceeding the NZ WES, although formaldehyde exceeded the TLV in 26.2% of all measurements. The AMV-TLV threshold of 1 was exceeded in 29.0% of the measurements. Levels and detection frequencies of most chemicals varied little between occupational groups, although exposure to methyl bromide was highest in the fumigators (median 43 ppb) without exceeding the TLV of 1000 ppb. Duration spent inside the container was associated with significantly higher levels of ethylene oxide, C2-alkylbenzenes, and acetaldehyde, but levels were well below the TLV/WES. Exposure levels did not differ between workers handling fumigated and non-fumigated containers. CONCLUSIONS Personal exposures of workers handling container cargo in New Zealand were mainly below current exposure standards, with formaldehyde the main contributor to overall exposure. However, as it is not clear whether working conditions of participants included in this study were representative of this industry as a whole, and not all relevant exposures were measured, we cannot exclude the possibility that high exposures may occur in some workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Hinz
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Andrea 't Mannetje
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Bill Glass
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Dave McLean
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Neil Pearce
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand.,Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jeroen Douwes
- Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
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A novel method for pre-ventilation of shipping containers. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2020; 230:113626. [PMID: 32950016 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2020.113626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Numerous shipping containers arrive with high levels of hazardous volatile chemicals in the interior air. This may constitute a health risk during inspection and unstuffing. The problem remains largely unaddressed due to ignorance, lack of suitable field instruments for chemical identification, and lack of easy to use, effective ventilation methods. Here, we present a novel ventilation approach based on extraction of air from the closed container via the existing top corner ventilators. A suction plate was developed to fit tightly over the corner ventilator and connected with a flexible hose to an extraction fan. Air flow rates and vacuum under the plate were measured in the lab with five different types of extraction fans. The vacuum produced under the suction plate held it securely in place. Washout of air contaminants under different configurations and ventilation scenarios was studied in an experimental 20-ft container stuffed with acetone emitting cardboard boxes and in the field with containers stuffed with commercial goods. Volatiles in container air were continuously recorded with logging photoionization detectors in various positions before, during and after ventilation. A maximum air flow through the ventilator of 186 m3/h was achieved. At 100 m3/h, the initial acetone levels were reduced to 11% and 4.9% in the tightly stuffed and to 6.0% and 3.1% in the loosely stuffed (pallets) experimental container after 1 h and 4 h, respectively, as measured inside the closed door (mean values). As expected, the washout was somewhat slower in nine 40-ft field containers and reached 22% and 11%, respectively. In both experimental and field containers the concentration rose quickly when ventilation ceased. In conclusion, the new ventilation method allows for convenient, safe and efficient ventilation of risk containers. The container should be continuously ventilated until it is opened, or rapid re-accumulation of volatiles will occur.
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