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Choi YH, Kim L, Huh DA, Moon KW, Kang MS, Lee YJ. Association between oil spill clean-up work and thyroid cancer: Nine years of follow-up after the Hebei Spirit oil spill accident. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 199:116041. [PMID: 38237246 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116041] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
In 2007, an unprecedented oil spill occurred in Taean, Korea. Although crude oil contains chemicals that could increase thyroid cancer risk, few studies have examined the long-term effects of oil exposure during clean-up and thyroid cancer incidence. We investigated the long-term thyroid cancer incidence among participants involved in clean-up work. 1798 participants engaged in at least two surveys since the baseline was tracked from 2008 to 2018. Participants reported the days they participated in oil clean-up works and cancer diagnoses. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratios between clean-up work duration and thyroid cancer. Over the 9-year follow-up, 30 thyroid cancer cases were diagnosed. A positive association was observed between clean-up duration and thyroid cancer risk. This effect was more pronounced among residents living <50 m from traffic roads. Our results indicate that crude oil clean-up work participation may increase the thyroid cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Hee Choi
- Department of Health and Safety Convergence Science, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health System, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Lita Kim
- Department of Health and Safety Convergence Science, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health System, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Da-An Huh
- Institute of Health Sciences, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kyong Whan Moon
- BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health System, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea; Department of Health and Environmental Science, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Sung Kang
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital, 31 Suncheonhyang 6-gil, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si 31151, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Jin Lee
- Regional Environmental Health Center, Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital, 31 Suncheonhyang 6-gil, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si 31151, Republic of Korea; Department of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, 31 Suncheonhyang 6-gil, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si 31151, Republic of Korea.
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Lee DW, Cho S, Shin A. Lymphohematopoietic cancer mortality among Korean semiconductor manufacturing workers. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1473. [PMID: 37533044 PMCID: PMC10398905 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16325-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to examine the lymphohematopoietic cancer mortality in a cohort of workers at a semiconductor manufacturing company in South Korea according to their jobs. METHODS A retrospective cohort was constructed using the personnel records of semiconductor manufacturing workers who were employed in a semiconductor company in South Korea in 1998-2012. Data on their vital status and causes of death were obtained from the National Statistical Office of South Korea. The standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) of lymphohematopoietic cancer were calculated. RESULTS A total of 288 deaths were reported, of which 22 were caused by lymphohematopoietic cancer, among 65,782 workers in 878,325 person-years. The SMRs for lymphohematopoietic cancer were 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.39-1.40; the number of observed cases [Obs] = 11) among male workers and 1.71 (95% CI = 0.85-3.06; Obs = 11) among female workers. Among female operators, excess deaths due to lymphohematopoietic cancer (SMR = 2.59, 95% CI = 1.24-4.76) and leukemia (SMR = 2.92, 95% CI = 1.26-5.76) were observed. However, they were not observed among office workers, facility managers, utility managers, or process managers. CONCLUSION Female operators involved in the semiconductor wafer fabrication process had higher risk of mortality from lymphohematopoietic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Wook Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Inha University Hospital, Inha University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sooyoung Cho
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Aesun Shin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Genomic Medicine Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Kim K, Sung HK, Lee K, Park SK. Semiconductor Work, Leukemia, and Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14733. [PMID: 36429453 PMCID: PMC9690168 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the development of the semiconductor industry over the past 60 years, various occupational diseases have been reported to coincide with rapid industrial growth. Among these occupational diseases, the association between semiconductor work and cancers, including leukemia, remains controversial. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the associations between semiconductor work, leukemia, and cancer risk. METHODS The core research databases, including PubMed, were screened for studies published until 31 July 2022. All eligible studies assessed cancer risk among workers in the semiconductor industry. RESULTS Nine studies were selected after a literature review. The employment period of semiconductor workers in each study was between 1965 and 2009. Semiconductor work was not significantly associated with the risk of leukemia (Relative Risk [RR], 1.02; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0.74-1.41) or cancer (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.93-1.07). CONCLUSION In this meta-analysis, semiconductor work was not significantly associated with leukemia or cancer risk. Internal comparisons, such as non-fab workers, quality of the study, employment period, and healthy worker effect, should be considered for interpretation. Furthermore, a prospective cohort study based on overall semiconductor workers in the industry could be useful to assess occupational disease risk as a mandatory component of health assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungsik Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Daehak-ro 101, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University Graduate School, Daehak-ro 101, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Daehak-ro 101, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Ho Kyung Sung
- Institute for Public Healthcare, National Medical Center, Eulji-ro 245, Jung-gu, Seoul 04564, Korea
- National Emergency Medical Center, National Medical Center, Eulji-ro 245, Jung-gu, Seoul 04564, Korea
| | - Kwan Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Korea
| | - Sue K. Park
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Daehak-ro 101, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Daehak-ro 101, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Integrated Major in Innovative Medical Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Daehak-ro 101, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea
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Biological Assessment of Potential Exposure to Occupational Substances in Current Semiconductor Workers with at Least 5 Years of Employment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148737. [PMID: 35886589 PMCID: PMC9318163 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Background: this study aimed to conduct a biological assessment of the potential exposure to carcinogenic substances in current semiconductor workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 306 semiconductor workers. The assessed biomarkers were as follows: (benzene) urine S-phenylmercapturic, trans,trans-muconic acid, blood benzene; (trichloroethylene) urine trichloroacetic acid; (2-ethoxyethanol) 2-ethoxyacetic acid; (arsine) urine arsenic3+, arsenic5+, monomethylarsonic, dimethylarsinic acid, arsenobetaine; (shift work) 6-hydroxymelatonin; (smoking) cotinine, and (radiation). The detection rate of these materials is defined as more than the biological exposure index (BEI) or the previous reference value. Results: Some workers exposed to trans,trans-muconic acid, trichloroacetic acid, and arsenic5+ showed high BEI levels. Generally, there was no difference according to job categories, and workers were suspected to be exposed to other sources. The melatonin concentration tended to decrease when working at night, and cotinine was identified as an excellent surrogate marker for smoking. In the case of radiation exposure, there was no significant difference in the number of stable chromosome translocation in 19 semiconductor workers. Their estimated radiation exposure level was below the limit of detection (LOD) or near the LOD level. Conclusion: In this study, most carcinogens were below the BEI level, but verification through re-measurement was needed for workers who were identified to have a high BEI level. For continuous monitoring, a prospective cohort is necessary to deal with the healthy worker effect and assess additional materials.
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Kim HR, Park DU. Two Semiconductor Companies' Financial Support Compensation (FSC) Programs for Semiconductor Workers with Suspected Work-Related Diseases (WRDs). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148694. [PMID: 35886546 PMCID: PMC9318346 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This study described two companies’ financial compensation programs for semiconductor workers with suspected work-related diseases (WRDs) and discussed the major related issues. The key contents of the programs found on the websites opened by two semiconductor companies (Samsung and SK Hynix) were cited. In order to select the suspected WRDs for the FSC, all available epidemiologic studies related to health problems conducted in the semiconductor industry were reviewed. Most program contents are similar, although the amount of financial compensation and a few types of disease available for compensation differ between the companies. The group of cancer, rare disease, childhood rare disease among children born to semiconductor workers (hereafter selected diseases among offspring), and fetal loss, including spontaneous abortion (SAB) and stillbirth, were considered for compensation. An employment duration of longer than one year on a semiconductor production line is required for FSC for cancer or rare disease. The FSC for SAB and offspring disease require a period of employment longer than one month, either before three months prior to conception or between conception and childbirth. The maximum amount of compensation per type of cancer and rare disease was fixed based on the medical treatment fee. The FSC programs of the two companies have been operated successfully to date. These programs are arguably considered to contribute to resolving the conflict between companies and workers with WRDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyoung-Ryoul Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea;
| | - Dong-Uk Park
- Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Seoul 110-791, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-3668-4707
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Lee J, Kim D, Kim T. Synthesis of Vapochromic Dyes Having Sensing Properties for Vapor Phase of Organic Solvents Used in Semiconductor Manufacturing Processes and Their Application to Textile-Based Sensors. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22124487. [PMID: 35746269 PMCID: PMC9229859 DOI: 10.3390/s22124487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Two vapochromic dyes (DMx and DM) were synthesized to be used for textile-based sensors detecting the vapor phase of organic solvents. They were designed to show sensitive color change properties at a low concentration of vapors at room temperature. They were applied to cotton fabrics as a substrate of the textile-based sensors to examine their sensing properties for nine organic solvents frequently used in semiconductor manufacturing processes, such as trichloroethylene, dimethylacetamide, iso-propanol, methanol, n-hexane, ethylacetate, benzene, acetone, and hexamethyldisilazane. The textile sensor exhibited strong sensing properties of polar solvents rather than non-polar solvents. In particular, the detection of dimethylacetamide was the best, showing a color difference of 15.9 for DMx and 26.2 for DM under 300 ppm exposure. Even at the low concentration of 10 ppm of dimethylacetamide, the color change values reached 7.7 and 13.6, respectively, in an hour. The maximum absorption wavelength of the textile sensor was shifted from 580 nm to 550 nm for DMx and 550 nm to 540 nm for DM, respectively, due to dimethylacetamide exposure. The sensing mechanism was considered to depend on solvatochromism, the aggregational properties of the dyes and the adsorption amounts of the solvent vapors on the textile substrates to which the dyes were applied. Finally, the reusability of the textile sensor was tested for 10 cycles.
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Parkinson's disease in a worker exposed to insecticides at a greenhouse. Ann Occup Environ Med 2021; 33:e6. [PMID: 34754467 PMCID: PMC7952772 DOI: 10.35371/aoem.2021.33.e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parkinson's disease (PD) is a rare, neurodegenerative disease with various occupational and environmental risk factors. Exposure to specific pesticides contributes significantly to the incidence of PD. However, it is difficult to measure the level of pesticide exposure in workers. This study presents the first case recognized the work-relatedness between PD and pesticide exposure. Case presentation A 68-year-old male was diagnosed with PD after working with pesticides at a tomato greenhouse for 12 years and 5 months. From the results of a field study, it was reasonable to assume that the patient had been exposed to a significant level of various insecticides. In the present report, we described the first accepted case of work-relatedness between PD and exposure to pesticides. The evaluation was conducted using the following steps: we ruled out other possible risk factors including additional occupational history and personal risk factors, we assessed the work environment, surveyed possible exposures, found proper epidemiological evidence, and calculated the probability of causation. The work-relatedness was determined through the review of epidemiological evidence and estimation of exposure situation and level, and biological plausibility. We also decided work-relatedness based on the exposure of PD related pesticides with identified biologically plausible and the presumption that the exposure level would be high due to the working process. Conclusions In this case, the field study and epidemiological results supported the work-relatedness of PD and exposure to pesticides. Moreover, the results of previous studies have confirmed a causal relationship between exposure to pesticides and PD.
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Song YK, Choi B, Kim K, Park HJ, Oh JM. Factors Influencing Workplace Health Promotion Interventions for Workers in the Semiconductor Industry According to Risk Levels of Chronic Disease. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111383. [PMID: 34769899 PMCID: PMC8583288 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: This study aimed to analyze the risk of chronic diseases including hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia in workers of a semiconductor manufacturing company and the factors associated with their participation in workplace health promotion (WHP) programs. (2) Methods: Subjects were workers in a semiconductor and liquid crystal display company in South Korea who had undergone regular health checkups. Data from regular health checkups and WHP interventions were analyzed. Health risk was classified based on the diagnosed disease, in-house classification criteria, and pooled cardiovascular risk score. (3) Results: The baseline characteristics of 39,073 participants included the following: male, 67.8%; between 30 and 40 years of age, 74.1%; <2 h of physical activities, 65.9%. Workers at risk of chronic diseases accounted for 22.2%, and 20.1% were suspicious cases of chronic diseases. Body mass index, and cholesterol level were relatively high in workers with the burden of chronic diseases. The participation rate in WHP programs was 28.8% in a high-risk group among workers at risk of chronic diseases. More participation was shown in male, older age groups, production work type, and single-person household. (4) Conclusions: Because of the low participation rate in WHP activities among workers with the burden of chronic diseases, it is necessary to establish measures to encourage their participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Kyoung Song
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (Y.-K.S.); (B.C.); (H.J.P.)
- College of Pharmacy, Daegu Catholic University, Gyeongsan City 38430, Korea
| | - Boyoon Choi
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (Y.-K.S.); (B.C.); (H.J.P.)
| | - Kyungim Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Korea University, Sejong City 30019, Korea;
| | - Hyun Jin Park
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (Y.-K.S.); (B.C.); (H.J.P.)
| | - Jung Mi Oh
- Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea; (Y.-K.S.); (B.C.); (H.J.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-880-7997
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Hwang SH, Park MY, Lee WJ, Park I, Hong K, Park D, Lee KM. A comparison of meta-analysis results with and without adjustment for the healthy worker effect: cancer mortality among workers in the semiconductor industry. Epidemiol Health 2021; 43:e2021057. [PMID: 34525505 PMCID: PMC8611319 DOI: 10.4178/epih.e2021057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study compared the results of meta-analysis with and without adjustment for the healthy worker effect on the association between working in the semiconductor industry and cancer mortality. METHODS Six studies that reported standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for cancers were selected for meta-analysis. Using a random-effects model, the SMR results from each study were combined for all cancers and leukemias to estimate the summary SMRs (95% confidence interval, CI). To adjust for the healthy worker effect, the relative standardized mortality ratio (rSMR=SMRx/SMRnot x) were calculated using observed and expected counts for the specific cause of interest (i.e., all cancers and leukemias) and the observed and expected counts for all other causes of mortality. Then, the rSMR results were combined to estimate the summary rSMRs (95% CIs). RESULTS The SMRs for all causes of mortality among semiconductor industry workers ranged from 0.25 to 0.80, which reflects a significant healthy worker effect. A remarkable difference was found between the summary SMRs and the summary rSMRs. The summary SMR for all cancers was 0.70 (95% CI, 0.63 to 0.79) whereas the summary rSMR was 1.38 (95% CI, 1.20 to 1.59). The summary SMR for leukemia was 0.88 (95% CI, 0.72 to 1.07), and the summary rSMR was 1.88 (95% CI, 1.20 to 2.95). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that adjustment for the healthy worker effect (i.e., rSMR) may be useful in meta-analyses of cohort studies reporting SMRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Ho Hwang
- National Cancer Control Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Korea
| | - Moon-Young Park
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Seoul University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Won Jin Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Inho Park
- Department of Statistics, Pukyong University, Busan, Korea
| | - Kimyong Hong
- Department of Nursing, Songkok University, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Donguk Park
- Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyoung-Mu Lee
- Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Seoul, Korea
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Choi S, Park D, Park Y. Possibility of Benzene Exposure in Workers of a Semiconductor Industry Based on the Patent Resources, 1990-2010. Saf Health Work 2021; 12:403-415. [PMID: 34527403 PMCID: PMC8430446 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2021.01.011] [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: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to assess the possibility of benzene exposure in workers of a Korean semiconductor manufacturing company by reviewing the issued patents. METHODS A systematic patent search was conducted with the Google "Advanced Patent Search" engine using the keywords "semiconductor" and "benzene" combined with all of the words accessed on January 24, 2016. RESULTS As a result of the search, we reviewed 75 patent documents filed by a Korean semiconductor manufacturing company from 1994 to 2010. From 22 patents, we found that benzene could have been used as one of the carbon sources in chemical vapor deposition for capacitor; as diamond-like carbon for solar cell, graphene formation, or etching for transition metal thin film; and as a solvent for dielectric film, silicon oxide layer, nanomaterials, photoresist, rise for immersion lithography, electrophotography, and quantum dot ink. CONCLUSION Considering the date of patent filing, it is possible that workers in the chemical vapor deposition, immersion lithography, and graphene formation processes could be exposed to benzene from 1996 to 2010.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangjun Choi
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Donguk Park
- Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Seoul, 03087, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunkyung Park
- Department of Occupational Health, Daegu Catholic University, Gyeongbuk, 38430, Republic of Korea
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Yoon C, Kim S, Park D, Choi Y, Jo J, Lee K. Chemical Use and Associated Health Concerns in the Semiconductor Manufacturing Industry. Saf Health Work 2020; 11:500-508. [PMID: 33329917 PMCID: PMC7728705 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2020.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Research on the status of many chemicals used in the semiconductor industry is needed. The purpose of this study was to describe the overall status of chemical use in the semiconductor industry in Korea and to examine it from a health perspective. Methods Data on the status of chemical use and safety data sheets at 11 of 12 major semiconductor workplaces in Korea were collected. The number of chemical products and chemical constituents, quantities of chemicals, and trade secret ingredients used, as well as the health hazards were examined. Results On average, 210 chemical products and 135 chemical constituents were used at the surveyed workplaces. Among all chemical products, 33% (range: 16-56%) contained at least one trade secret ingredient. Most of the trade secret ingredients were used in the photolithography process. Several carcinogens, including sulfuric acid, chromic acid, ethylene oxide, crystalline silica, potassium dichromate, and formaldehyde were also used. Only 29% (39 of 135) of the chemical constituents had occupational exposure limits, and more than 60% had no National Fire Protection Association health, safety, and reactivity ratings. Based on the aforementioned results, this study revealed the following. First, many chemical products and constituents are being used in the semiconductor industry and many products contained trade secret ingredients. Second, many products contained significant amounts of carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reproductive toxicant materials. Conclusion We conclude that protecting workers in the semiconductor industry against harm from chemical substances will be difficult, due to widespread use of trade secret ingredients and a lack of hazard information. The findings of the status of chemical use and the health and safety risks in semiconductor industry will contribute to epidemiological studies, safe workplace, and worker health protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chungsik Yoon
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunju Kim
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Republic of Korea
| | - Donguk Park
- Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Republic of Korea
| | - Younsoon Choi
- Management and Planning Bureau, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Republic of Korea
| | - Jihoon Jo
- Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwonseob Lee
- Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Republic of Korea
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Huang SZ, Wu KY. Health Risk Assessment of Photoresists Used in an Optoelectronic Semiconductor Factory. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2019; 39:2625-2639. [PMID: 31251409 DOI: 10.1111/risa.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Photoresist materials are indispensable in photolithography, a process used in semiconductor fabrication. The work process and potential hazards in semiconductor production have raised concerns as to adverse health effects. We therefore performed a health risk assessment of occupational exposure to positive photoresists in a single optoelectronic semiconductor factory in Taiwan. Positive photoresists are widely used in the optoelectronic semiconductor industry for photolithography. Occupational exposure was estimated using the Stoffenmanager® model. Bayesian modeling incorporated available personal air sampling data. We examined the composition and by-products of the photoresists according to descriptions published in the literature and patents; the main compositions assessed were propylene glycol methyl ether acetate (PGMEA), novolac resin, photoactive compound, phenol, cresol, benzene, toluene, and xylene. Reference concentrations for each compound were reassessed and updated if necessary. Calculated hazard quotients were greater than 1 for benzene, phenol, xylene, and PGMEA, indicating that they have the potential for exposures that exceed reference levels. The information from our health risk assessment suggests that benzene and phenol have a higher level of risk than is currently acknowledged. Undertaking our form of risk assessment in the workplace design phase could identify compounds of major concern, allow for the early implementation of control measures and monitoring strategies, and thereby reduce the level of exposure to health risks that workers face throughout their career.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Zu Huang
- Institute of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene, National Taiwan University, Taiwan
| | - Kuen-Yuh Wu
- Institute of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene, National Taiwan University, Taiwan
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Occupational Characteristics of Semiconductor Workers with Cancer and Rare Diseases Registered with a Workers' Compensation Program in Korea. Saf Health Work 2019; 10:347-354. [PMID: 31497332 PMCID: PMC6717884 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to describe the types of diseases that developed in semiconductor workers who have registered with the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (KWCWS) and to identify potential common occupational characteristics by the type of claimed disease. Methods A total of 55 semiconductor workers with cancer or rare diseases who claimed to the KWCWS were compared based on their work characteristics and types of claimed diseases. Leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and aplastic anemia were grouped into lymphohematopoietic (LHP) disorder. Results Leukemia (n = 14) and breast cancer (n = 10) were the most common complaints, followed by brain cancer (n = 6), aplastic anemia (n = 6), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 4). LHP disorders (n = 24) accounted for 43%. Sixty percent (n = 33) of registered workers (n = 55) were found to have been employed before 2000. Seventy-six percent (n = 42) of registered workers and 79% (n = 19) among the registered workers with LHP (n = 24) were found to be diagnosed at a relatively young age, ≤40 years. A total of 18 workers among the registered semiconductor workers were finally determined to deserve compensation for occupational disease by either the KWCWS (n = 10) or the administrative court (n = 8). Eleven fabrication workers who were compensated responded as having handled wafers smaller than eight inches in size. Eight among the 18 workers compensated (44 %) were found to have ever worked at etching operations. Conclusion The distribution of cancer and rare diseases among registered semiconductor workers was closely related to the manufacturing era before 2005, ≤8 inches of wafer size handled, exposure to clean rooms of fabrication and chip assembly operations, and etching operations.
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Park D. Review for Retrospective Exposure Assessment Methods Used in Epidemiologic Cancer Risk Studies of Semiconductor Workers: Limitations and Recommendations. Saf Health Work 2018; 9:249-256. [PMID: 30370156 PMCID: PMC6129997 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This article aims to provide a systematic review of the exposure assessment methods used to assign wafer fabrication (fab) workers in epidemiologic cohort studies of mortality from all causes and various cancers. Epidemiologic and exposure–assessment studies of silicon wafer fab operations in the semiconductor industry were collected through an extensive literature review of articles reported until 2017. The studies found various outcomes possibly linked to fab operations, but a clear association with the chemicals in the process was not found, possibly because of exposure assessment methodology. No study used a tiered assessment approach to identify similar exposure groups that incorporated manufacturing era, facility, fab environment, operation, job and level of exposure to individual hazardous agents. Further epidemiologic studies of fab workers are warranted with more refined exposure assessment methods incorporating both operation and job title and hazardous agents to examine the associations with cancer risk or mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donguk Park
- Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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15
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Kang S, Song J, Koh T, Park O, Park JT, Lee WJ. Thyroid cancer among female workers in Korea, 2007-2015. Ann Occup Environ Med 2018; 30:48. [PMID: 30026955 PMCID: PMC6048802 DOI: 10.1186/s40557-018-0259-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prevalence of thyroid cancer has been increasing rapidly worldwide, especially among women. There has been a debate as to whether such an increase represents consequences of over-diagnosis or a true increase. To find the occupational risk of Korean female workers in different industry sectors, we analyzed the data of Korean female workers. Methods National Female Worker Cohort data that contain information on total female workers were used for our analysis of prevalence of thyroid cancer (C73 according to KCD-5, 6 code) derived from National Health Insurance data. By combining industrial codes from National Health Insurance Service and those from Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service, the classification of industrial codes became to consist of the total of thirty three representing both non-office (NO) and office (O) categories. Both an internal comparison among female workers within the cohort and an external comparison to compare female workers with Korean general female population were carried out. Results Among 149,258 female workers, 2,641 cases of thyroid cancers were identified. Differences in prevalence of thyroid cancer between female workers (40.5%) and general Korean female population (32.6%) were observed; however, the differences in prevalence of thyroid cancer between NO workers and O workers were not apparent. An analysis involving workers in Financial and insurance activities sector revealed that, standardized prevalence rate (SPR) of both NO (2.96, 95% CI = 2.01-4.20) and O workers (3.68, 95% CI = 3.10-4.33) increased significantly and that an AOR (adjusted odds ratio) increased marginally (1.38, 95% CI = 0.97-1.96). Further, when stratified in respect to the duration of employment, an AOR of female workers having been employed for more than 8 years showed a significant increase (1.63, 95% CI = 1.07-2.49). Conclusions Female workers had a higher risk of thyroid cancer than general female population but the difference between NO workers and O workers was not found to be significant in most industrial sectors. Further studies using data with information regarding specific occupational exposures are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seonghoon Kang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ansan Hospital, Korea University Medical Center, Korea University, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.,2Graduate School of Public Health, Korea University, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jinho Song
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ansan Hospital, Korea University Medical Center, Korea University, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Taehwan Koh
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ansan Hospital, Korea University Medical Center, Korea University, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - One Park
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ansan Hospital, Korea University Medical Center, Korea University, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Jong-Tae Park
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ansan Hospital, Korea University Medical Center, Korea University, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Won-Jin Lee
- 2Graduate School of Public Health, Korea University, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea.,3Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 73, Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02855 South Korea
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Comprehensive Evaluation of Hazardous Chemical Exposure Control System at a Semiconductor Manufacturing Company in South Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15061162. [PMID: 29865268 PMCID: PMC6025027 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15061162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to evaluate the hazardous chemical exposure control system in a semiconductor manufacturing company and recommend an appropriate exposure surveillance system for hazardous agents. We reviewed compliance-based chemical exposure data compiled between 2012 and 2014 by the study company. The chemical management system, characteristics of chemical use and hazardous gas monitoring system were also investigated. We evaluated the airborne isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and acetone generally used as cleaning solvents, volatile organic compounds and metals levels using internationally recommended sampling and analytical methods. Based on the results of past working environment measurement data and of our investigation, the overall current exposure to chemicals by semiconductor workers during routine production work appears to be controlled below occupational exposure limits. About 40% of chemical products used were found to contain at least one unidentifiable trade-secret substance. There are several situations and maintenance tasks that need special attention to reduce exposure to carcinogens as much as possible. In addition, a job-exposure matrix as a tool of surveillance system that can examine the exposure and health status of semiconductor workers according to type of operation and type of job or task is recommended.
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Choi S, Cha W, Park J, Kim S, Kim W, Yoon C, Park JH, Ha K, Park D. Extremely Low Frequency-Magnetic Field (ELF-MF) Exposure Characteristics among Semiconductor Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E642. [PMID: 29614730 PMCID: PMC5923684 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15040642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We assessed the exposure of semiconductor workers to extremely low frequency-magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and identified job characteristics affecting ELF-MF exposure. These were demonstrated by assessing the exposure of 117 workers involved in wafer fabrication (fab) and chip packaging wearing personal dosimeters for a full shift. A portable device was used to monitor ELF-MF in high temporal resolution. All measurements were categorized by operation, job and working activity during working time. ELF-MF exposure of workers were classified based on the quartiles of ELF-MF distribution. The average levels of ELF-MF exposure were 0.56 µT for fab workers, 0.59 µT for chip packaging workers and 0.89 µT for electrical engineers, respectively. Exposure to ELF-MF differed among types of factory, operation, job and activity. Workers engaged in the diffusion and chip testing activities showed the highest ELF-MF exposure. The ELF-MF exposures of process operators were found to be higher than those of maintenance engineers, although peak exposure and/or patterns varied. The groups with the highest quartile ELF-MF exposure level are operators in diffusion, ion implantation, module and testing operations, and maintenance engineers in diffusion, module and testing operations. In conclusion, ELF-MF exposure among workers can be substantially affected by the type of operation and job, and the activity or location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangjun Choi
- Department of Occupational Health, Daegu Catholic University, Gyeongsan 38430, Korea.
| | - Wonseok Cha
- Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Seoul 03087, Korea.
| | - Jihoon Park
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Institute of Health and Environment, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
| | - Seungwon Kim
- Department of Public Health, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Korea.
| | - Won Kim
- Wonjin Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, Seoul 02221, Korea.
| | - Chungsik Yoon
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Institute of Health and Environment, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
| | - Ju-Hyun Park
- Department of Statistics, Dongguk University, Seoul 04620, Korea.
| | - Kwonchul Ha
- Department of Biochemistry and Health Science, Changwon National University, Changwon 51140, Korea.
| | - Donguk Park
- Department of Environmental Health, Korea National Open University, Seoul 03087, Korea.
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Author Response to Drs Paek and Gassert. J Occup Environ Med 2015; 57:e144-5. [PMID: 26539780 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Lee K, Kim SG, Kim D. Potential risk factors for haematological cancers in semiconductor workers. Occup Med (Lond) 2015; 65:585-9. [PMID: 26272382 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqv112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has recently been increased interest in cancer incidence in electronics workers. AIMS To determine the cancer incidence ratio in electronics workers and the potential factors affecting the risk for development of cancer. METHODS Epidemiological study performed in electronics workers who were employed between 1999 and 2008 in South Korea. Cancer incidence ratio was analysed with respect to departments, divisions, job titles, gender, age, hepatitis B and C virus infection and work duration. We compared the incidence of haematological cancer in this cohort with that expected in the general population. RESULTS The study population was 56283. Overall, the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) for haematological cancer was 0.85. In particular, the SIR for leukaemia was 0.86 and for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) was 0.93, which were not statistically significant. The SIR for NHL was significantly increased [SIR 5.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31-20.95] in female office workers. We also found that the SIR for NHL was significantly increased in female workers who tested positive for hepatitis virus infection (SIR 7.69, 95% CI 1.08-54.60). CONCLUSIONS The raised SIR for NHL among female workers was due to potential risk factors such as hepatitis virus infection although additional research and an ongoing, long-term, prospective epidemiological cohort study is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Lee
- Samsung Health Research Institute, Samsung Electronics, Yongin-City 446-711, Korea
| | - S-G Kim
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 110-746, Korea,
| | - D Kim
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Myong Ji Hospital, Seonam University School of Medicine, Gyeonggi 412-826, Korea.
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Swain B, Mishra C, Lee CG, Park KS, Lee KJ. Valorization of GaN based metal-organic chemical vapor deposition dust a semiconductor power device industry waste through mechanochemical oxidation and leaching: A sustainable green process. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 140:704-713. [PMID: 26094059 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2015] [Revised: 05/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/02/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Dust generated during metal organic vapor deposition (MOCVD) process of GaN based semiconductor power device industry contains significant amounts of gallium and indium. These semiconductor power device industry wastes contain gallium as GaN and Ga0.97N0.9O0.09 is a concern for the environment which can add value through recycling. In the present study, this waste is recycled through mechanochemical oxidation and leaching. For quantitative recovery of gallium, two different mechanochemical oxidation leaching process flow sheets are proposed. In one process, first the Ga0.97N0.9O0.09 of the MOCVD dust is leached at the optimum condition. Subsequently, the leach residue is mechanochemically treated, followed by oxidative annealing and finally re-leached. In the second process, the MOCVD waste dust is mechanochemically treated, followed by oxidative annealing and finally leached. Both of these treatment processes are competitive with each other, appropriate for gallium leaching and treatment of the waste MOCVD dust. Without mechanochemical oxidation, 40.11 and 1.86 w/w% of gallium and Indium are leached using 4M HCl, 100°C and pulp density of 100 kg/m(3,) respectively. After mechanochemical oxidation, both these processes achieved 90 w/w% of gallium and 1.86 w/w% of indium leaching at their optimum condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basudev Swain
- Institute for Advanced Engineering (IAE), Advanced Materials & Processing Center, Yongin-Si 449-863, Republic of Korea.
| | - Chinmayee Mishra
- Institute for Advanced Engineering (IAE), Advanced Materials & Processing Center, Yongin-Si 449-863, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Gi Lee
- Institute for Advanced Engineering (IAE), Advanced Materials & Processing Center, Yongin-Si 449-863, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Soo Park
- Institute for Advanced Engineering (IAE), Advanced Materials & Processing Center, Yongin-Si 449-863, Republic of Korea
| | - Kun-Jae Lee
- Department of Energy Engineering, Dankook University, Cheonan 330-714, Republic of Korea
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Jones RM, Dell L, Torres C, Simmons CE, Poole J, Boelter FW, Harper P. Exposure Reconstruction and Risk Analysis for Six Semiconductor Workers With Lymphohematopoietic Cancers. J Occup Environ Med 2015; 57:649-58. [PMID: 25719533 PMCID: PMC4448668 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether workplace exposures to recognized lymphohematopoietic carcinogens were possibly related to cancers in six semiconductor-manufacturing workers. METHODS A job-exposure matrix was developed for chemical and physical process agents and anticipated by-products. Potential cumulative occupational exposures of the six cases were reconstructed. The role of workplace exposures in cancer was evaluated through quantitative risk assessment and by comparison with epidemiological literature. RESULTS Two workers were potentially exposed to agents capable of causing their diagnosed cancers. Reconstructed exposures were similar to levels in outdoor environments and lower than exposures associated with increased risks in epidemiological studies. Cancer risks were estimated to be less than 1 in 10,000 persons. CONCLUSIONS The development of cancer among the six workers was unlikely to be explained by occupational exposures to recognized lymphohematopoietic carcinogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael M. Jones
- From ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Jones, Ms Simmons, and Ms Boelter) and School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago (Dr Jones); ENVIRON International Corporation (Ms Dell), Amherst, MA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Torres), Atlanta, GA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Poole), Tampa, FL; and ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Harper), Phoenix, AZ. Ms Simmons is currently employed by Simmons Environmental and Occupational Health Solutions. Mr Torres is currently employed by Gates Rubber
| | - Linda Dell
- From ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Jones, Ms Simmons, and Ms Boelter) and School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago (Dr Jones); ENVIRON International Corporation (Ms Dell), Amherst, MA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Torres), Atlanta, GA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Poole), Tampa, FL; and ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Harper), Phoenix, AZ. Ms Simmons is currently employed by Simmons Environmental and Occupational Health Solutions. Mr Torres is currently employed by Gates Rubber
| | - Craig Torres
- From ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Jones, Ms Simmons, and Ms Boelter) and School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago (Dr Jones); ENVIRON International Corporation (Ms Dell), Amherst, MA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Torres), Atlanta, GA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Poole), Tampa, FL; and ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Harper), Phoenix, AZ. Ms Simmons is currently employed by Simmons Environmental and Occupational Health Solutions. Mr Torres is currently employed by Gates Rubber
| | - Catherine E. Simmons
- From ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Jones, Ms Simmons, and Ms Boelter) and School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago (Dr Jones); ENVIRON International Corporation (Ms Dell), Amherst, MA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Torres), Atlanta, GA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Poole), Tampa, FL; and ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Harper), Phoenix, AZ. Ms Simmons is currently employed by Simmons Environmental and Occupational Health Solutions. Mr Torres is currently employed by Gates Rubber
| | - James Poole
- From ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Jones, Ms Simmons, and Ms Boelter) and School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago (Dr Jones); ENVIRON International Corporation (Ms Dell), Amherst, MA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Torres), Atlanta, GA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Poole), Tampa, FL; and ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Harper), Phoenix, AZ. Ms Simmons is currently employed by Simmons Environmental and Occupational Health Solutions. Mr Torres is currently employed by Gates Rubber
| | - Fred W. Boelter
- From ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Jones, Ms Simmons, and Ms Boelter) and School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago (Dr Jones); ENVIRON International Corporation (Ms Dell), Amherst, MA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Torres), Atlanta, GA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Poole), Tampa, FL; and ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Harper), Phoenix, AZ. Ms Simmons is currently employed by Simmons Environmental and Occupational Health Solutions. Mr Torres is currently employed by Gates Rubber
| | - Paul Harper
- From ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Jones, Ms Simmons, and Ms Boelter) and School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago (Dr Jones); ENVIRON International Corporation (Ms Dell), Amherst, MA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Torres), Atlanta, GA; ENVIRON International Corporation (Dr Poole), Tampa, FL; and ENVIRON International Corporation (Mr Harper), Phoenix, AZ. Ms Simmons is currently employed by Simmons Environmental and Occupational Health Solutions. Mr Torres is currently employed by Gates Rubber
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Kim I, Kim MH, Lim S. Reproductive Hazards Still Persist in the Microelectronics Industry: Increased Risk of Spontaneous Abortion and Menstrual Aberration among Female Workers in the Microelectronics Industry in South Korea. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0123679. [PMID: 25938673 PMCID: PMC4418732 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0123679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the global expansion of supply chains and changes to the production process, few studies since the mid-1990 s and 2000s have examined reproductive risks of the microelectronics industry; we examined the reproductive risks among female microelectronics workers in South Korea. METHODS Based on claim data from the National Health Insurance (2008-2012), we estimated age-specific rates of spontaneous abortion (SAB) and menstrual aberration (MA) among women aged 20 to 39 years. We compared data between microelectronics workers and three different control groups: economically inactive women, the working population as a whole, and workers employed in the bank industry. For an effect measure, age-stratified relative risks (RRs) were estimated. RESULTS Female workers in the microelectronics industry showed significantly higher risk for SAB and MA compared to control groups. The RRs for SAB with reference to economically inactive women, working population, and bank workers in their twenties were 1.57, 1.40, and 1.37, respectively, and the RRs for MA among females in their twenties were 1.54, 1.38, and 1.48, respectively. For women in their thirties, RRs for SAB were 1.58, 1.67, and 1.13, and those for MA were 1.25, 1.35, and 1.23 compared to the three control populations, respectively. All RRs were statistically significant at a level of 0.05, except for the SAB case comparison with bank workers in their thirties. CONCLUSIONS Despite technical innovations and health and safety measures, female workers in microelectronics industry in South Korea have high rates of SAB and MA, suggesting continued exposure to reproductive hazards. Further etiologic studies based on primary data collection and careful surveillance are required to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inah Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung-Hee Kim
- People’s Health Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
| | - Sinye Lim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Abstract
Occupational health development in a country can be classified into 3 phases as External, Internal (or Personal), and Social Environmental Phases. Occupational health usually focuses on work environment, but it cannot advance without controlling workers' health and cannot be achieved without a complimentary understanding of the social security system. Society may continue wasting social costs for determining whether a disease of workers is caused by or arising from work. In order to understand the status of occupational diseases in a country, one must know about the comprehensiveness of the social security system in that society.
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Tsai RJ, Luckhaupt SE, Schumacher P, Cress RD, Deapen DM, Calvert GM. Acute myeloid leukemia risk by industry and occupation. Leuk Lymphoma 2014; 55:2584-91. [PMID: 24547710 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2014.894189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common type of leukemia found in adults. Identifying jobs that pose a risk for AML may be useful for identifying new risk factors. A matched case-control analysis was conducted using California Cancer Registry data from 1988 to 2007. This study included 8999 cases of AML and 24 822 controls. Industries with a statistically significant increased AML risk were construction (matched odds ratio [mOR] = 1.13); crop production (mOR = 1.41); support activities for agriculture and forestry (mOR = 2.05); and animal slaughtering and processing (mOR = 2.09). Among occupations with a statistically significant increased AML risk were miscellaneous agricultural workers (mOR = 1.76); fishers and related fishing workers (mOR = 2.02); nursing, psychiatric and home health aides (mOR = 1.65); and janitors and building cleaners (mOR = 1.54). Further investigation is needed to confirm study findings and to identify specific exposures responsible for the increased risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Tsai
- Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations and Field Studies, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Cincinnati, OH , USA
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Park HG, Yeo MK. Ecotoxicity Estimation of Hazardous Air Pollutants Emitted from Semiconductor Manufacturing Processes Utilizing QSAR. B KOREAN CHEM SOC 2013. [DOI: 10.5012/bkcs.2013.34.12.3755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Kim MH, Kim H, Paek D. The health impacts of semiconductor production: an epidemiologic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2013; 20:95-114. [PMID: 24999845 DOI: 10.1179/2049396713y.0000000050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite concerns over the harmful health effects of semiconductor production, epidemiological studies have shown mixed results. OBJECTIVES We aim to critically appraise epidemiologic studies to date, and to suggest future research and actions to protect workers in semiconductor industry. METHODS Epidemiologic studies were identified through electronic database searches, review of reference lists of relevant published works, and expert consultations, and were narratively reviewed. RESULTS Most evidence suggests reproductive risks from fabrication jobs, including spontaneous abortion (SAB), congenital malformation, and reduced fertility. Although chemicals have been suspected as causal agents, knowledge of the likely contribution(s) from specific exposures is still limited. Evidence of cancer risk seems to be equivocal. However, the available studies had serious limitations including healthy worker effects (HWEs), information bias, and insufficient power, all of which are associated with underestimation. Nevertheless, excess risks for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), leukemia, brain tumor, and breast cancer were observed. CONCLUSIONS Monitoring and innovative research based on international collaboration with a focus on sentinel events are required.
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Rim KT. Occupational Cancers with Chemical Exposure and their Prevention in Korea: A Literature Review. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2013; 14:3379-91. [DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2013.14.6.3379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Kim I, Kim HJ, Lim SY, Kongyoo J. Leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in semiconductor industry workers in Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2012; 18:147-53. [PMID: 22762495 DOI: 10.1179/1077352512z.00000000019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Reports of leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), cancers known to have a similar pathophysiology, among workers in the semiconductor industry have generated much public concern in Korea. This paper describes cases reported to the NGO Supporters for the Health and Rights of People in the Semiconductor Industry (SHARPs). We identified demographic characteristics, occupational, and disease history, for 17 leukemia and NHL cases from the Giheung Samsung semiconductor plant, diagnosed from November 2007 to January 2011. Patients were relatively young (mean = 28·5 years, SD = 6·5) at the time of diagnosis and the mean latency period was 104·3 months (SD = 65·8). Majority of the cases were fabrication operators (11 workers among 17) and 12 were hired before 2000. Six cases worked in the etching or diffusion process. The evidence to confirm the causal relationship between exposures in the semiconductor industry and leukemia or NHL remains insufficient and a more formal, independent study of the exposure-disease relationship in this occupation is needed. However, workers should be protected from the potential exposures immediately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inah Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Yonsei University, Korea
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Yoon C. Much concern but little research on semiconductor occupational health issues. J Korean Med Sci 2012; 27:461-4. [PMID: 22563207 PMCID: PMC3342533 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2012.27.5.461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Accepted: 04/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chungsik Yoon
- Institute of Health and Environment, School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds and Possibility of Exposure to By-product Volatile Organic Compounds in Photolithography Processes in Semiconductor Manufacturing Factories. Saf Health Work 2011; 2:210-7. [PMID: 22953204 PMCID: PMC3430900 DOI: 10.5491/shaw.2011.2.3.210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2011] [Revised: 05/09/2011] [Accepted: 05/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to measure the concentration of volatile organic compound (VOC)s originated from the chemicals used and/or derived from the original parental chemicals in the photolithography processes of semiconductor manufacturing factories. METHODS A total of four photolithography processes in 4 Fabs at three different semiconductor manufacturing factories in Korea were selected for this study. This study investigated the types of chemicals used and generated during the photolithography process of each Fab, and the concentration levels of VOCs for each Fab. RESULTS A variety of organic compounds such as ketone, alcohol, and acetate compounds as well as aromatic compounds were used as solvents and developing agents in the processes. Also, the generation of by-products, such as toluene and phenol, was identified through a thermal decomposition experiment performed on a photoresist. The VOC concentration levels in the processes were lower than 5% of the threshold limit value (TLV)s. However, the air contaminated with chemical substances generated during the processes was re-circulated through the ventilation system, thereby affecting the airborne VOC concentrations in the photolithography processes. CONCLUSION Tens of organic compounds were being used in the photolithography processes, though the types of chemical used varied with the factory. Also, by-products, such as aromatic compounds, could be generated during photoresist patterning by exposure to light. Although the airborne VOC concentrations resulting from the processes were lower than 5% of the TLVs, employees still could be exposed directly or indirectly to various types of VOCs.
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Kim EA, Lee HE, Ryu HW, Park SH, Kang SK. Cases series of malignant lymphohematopoietic disorder in korean semiconductor industry. Saf Health Work 2011; 2:122-34. [PMID: 22953195 PMCID: PMC3431896 DOI: 10.5491/shaw.2011.2.2.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2010] [Accepted: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Seven cases of malignant lymphohematopoietic (LHP) disorder were claimed to have developed from occupational exposure at two plants of a semiconductor company from 2007 to 2010. This study evaluated the possibility of exposure to carcinogenic agents for the cases. METHODS Clinical courses were reviewed with assessing possible exposure to carcinogenic agents related to LHP cancers. Chemicals used at six major semiconductor companies in Korea were reviewed. Airborne monitoring for chemicals, including benzene, was conducted and the ionizing radiation dose was measured from 2008 to 2010. RESULTS The latency of seven cases (five leukemiae, a Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and an aplastic anemia) ranged from 16 months to 15 years and 5 months. Most chemical measurements were at levels of less than 10% of the Korean Occupational Exposure Limit value. No carcinogens related to LHP cancers were used or detected. Complete-shielded radiation-generating devices were used, but the ionizing radiation doses were 0.20-0.22 uSv/hr (background level: 0.21 µSv/hr). Airborne benzene was detected at 0.31 ppb when the detection limit was lowered as low as possible. Ethylene oxide and formaldehyde were not found in the cases' processes, while these two were determined to be among the 263 chemicals in the list that was used at the six semiconductor companies at levels lower than 0.1%. Exposures occurring before 2002 could not be assessed because of the lack of information. CONCLUSION Considering the possibility of exposure to carcinogenic agents, we could not find any convincing evidence for occupational exposure in all investigated cases. However, further study is needed because the semiconductor industry is a newly developing one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-A Kim
- Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Incheon, Korea
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