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Aachimi A, Marc F, Bonvallot N, Clerc F. A control banding method for chemical risk assessment in occupational settings in France. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1282668. [PMID: 38152660 PMCID: PMC10751336 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1282668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study describes a method whose aim is to help companies assess the chemical occupational risks related to labeled products and industrial chemical emissions. The method is intended to be used by industrial hygienists at the scale of one company. Both inhalation and cutaneous exposure routes are taken into account. Methods The method relies on a control-banding scheme. A work situation is described by exposure parameters such as the process or the local exhaust ventilation and by the hazard of the product. Each possible value of the parameters is associated with a "band," which is associated with an integer value. The multiplication of these values results in a score, which represents a priority for intervention. The higher the score, the more the situation warrants investigation for implementing prevention measures, such as chemical substitution and the addition of local exhaust ventilation. To simplify communication, the priority is associated with a colored priority band: red for "very high priority," orange for "high priority," and green for "moderate priority." The priority bands are computed for all work situations performed in a company. Results An example of the use of this method is described in a French façade insulation company. Conclusion A tool named Seirich was developed to implement this method and promote good practices for helping industrial hygienists in the prioritization of interventions for reducing chemical risk in France.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abir Aachimi
- Department of Pollutant Metrology, Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité (INRS), Paris, France
- Department of Expertise and Technical Consulting, Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité (INRS), Paris, France
- Univ Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), Rennes, France
| | - Florian Marc
- Department of Expertise and Technical Consulting, Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité (INRS), Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Bonvallot
- Univ Rennes, EHESP, Inserm, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), Rennes, France
| | - Frederic Clerc
- Department of Pollutant Metrology, Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité (INRS), Paris, France
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Mohammadi Z, Vahabi M, Sadat SM, Zendehdel R. Risk Assessment of Nano-Flame Retardants Coating in the Selected Construction Industry of Iran by Control Banding Approach. Int J Prev Med 2021; 12:96. [PMID: 34584661 PMCID: PMC8428308 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_186_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a wide range of challenges through the use of nano-material in buildings. By developing construction industries the use of flame retardant nano-materials is a hurdle for human health. However occupational exposure measurement is not applicable for nano-particles monitoring. Risk assessment is an alternative method for industrial hygiene strategies. In this study, we use the control banding approach for risk assessment of 3 nano-fire retardant (NFR) in the building industry. Methods: We used control banding as a risk assessment approach for decision making about nano-materials in the building industry. The risk of nano-fire retardants such as monokote accelerator, monokote Z-106 G and monokote Z-106 HY in the construction industry was studied. The level of risk was evaluated by the matrix of hazard severity and probability score. Hazard severity was scored by toxicological information. The probability score was estimated by the state work operation. Results: A score of hazard severity in monokot Z-106 HY was higher than other nano-materials. The probability score of spraying tasks was lower than mixing and transportation tasks. The results show the application of all nano-materials had the higher risk level in transportation and mixing tasks. The risk level of monokote accelerator and monokote Z-106 G in spraying task is lower than monokot Z-106 HY. Conclusions: There is a high risk level for studied nano-materials in the coating tasks of the construction industry. In conclusion, powerful controlling strategies such as the substitution of nano-materials was suggested to decrease the risk of nano-fire retardants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Mohammadi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Student Research Committee, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoume Vahabi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, Student Research Committee, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Sadat
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran, Iran
| | - Rezvan Zendehdel
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran, Iran
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McCord TA, Legaspi MT, West EA, Yung PK, Larson DL, Paik SY, Zalk DM. Quantitative Validation of Control Bands Using Bayesian Statistical Analyses. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:63-83. [PMID: 32820323 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This study presents a quantitative validation of 15 Similar Exposure Groups (SEGs) that were derived via control bands inherent to the Risk Level Based Management System currently being used at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. For 93% of the SEGs that were evaluated, statistical analyses of personal exposure monitoring data, through Bayesian Decision Analysis (BDA), demonstrated that the controls implemented from the initial control bands assigned to these SEGs were at least as protective as the controls from the control band outcomes derived from the quantitative data. The BDA also demonstrated that for 40% of the SEGs, the controls from the initial control bands were overly protective, thus allowing controls to be downgraded, which resulted in a significant saving of environmental safety and health (ES&H) resources. Therefore, as a means to both confirm existing controls and to identify candidate SEGs for downgrading controls, efforts to continuously improve the accuracy of Control Banding (CB) strategies through the routine quantitative validation of SEGs are strongly encouraged. Targeted collaborative efforts across institutions and even countries for both the development of CB strategies and the validation of discreetly defined SEGs of commonly performed tasks will not only optimize limited ES&H resources but will also assist in providing a simplified process for essential risk communication at the worker level to the benefit of billions of workers around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler A McCord
- Environmental Health and Safety Office, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Matthew T Legaspi
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, ES&H Directorate, East Avenue Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Elaine A West
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, ES&H Directorate, East Avenue Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Priscilla K Yung
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, ES&H Directorate, East Avenue Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Diana L Larson
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, ES&H Directorate, East Avenue Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Samuel Y Paik
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, ES&H Directorate, East Avenue Livermore, CA, USA
| | - David M Zalk
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, ES&H Directorate, East Avenue Livermore, CA, USA
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Moon HI, Han SW, Shin S, Byeon SH. Comparison of the Qualitative and the Quantitative Risk Assessment of Hazardous Substances Requiring Management under the Occupational Safety and Health Act in South Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18031354. [PMID: 33540897 PMCID: PMC7908262 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18031354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The risk assessment of hazardous substances has become increasingly important for the efficient prevention and management of various diseases or accidents caused by increased amounts of hazardous substances in the workplace. In this study, risk assessment was conducted for 36 kinds of hazardous substances requiring management by using qualitative and quantitative risk assessments. Qualitative risk assessment was performed by multiplying the exposure level class by the hazard class according to the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency’s (KOSHA) Chemical Hazard Risk Management (CHARM). The quantitative risk assessment was followed by a four-step risk assessment system presented in the Guidelines for Hazard Risk Assessment of Chemicals (KOSHA GUIDE W-6-2016). In the quantitative assessments, we presented a new method of classifying risk levels into four steps, much like qualitative assessments. In this study, the quantitative risk assessment was considered difficult to predict through qualitative risk assessment. Therefore, it is necessary to perform a quantitative risk assessment after a qualitative risk assessment for a higher level of risk assessment.
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Brosseau LM, Rosen J, Harrison R. Selecting Controls for Minimizing SARS-CoV-2 Aerosol Transmission in Workplaces and Conserving Respiratory Protective Equipment Supplies. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:53-62. [PMID: 32820333 PMCID: PMC7454303 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
With growing evidence of inhalation of small infectious particles as an important mode of transmission for SARS-CoV-2, workplace risk assessments should focus on eliminating or minimizing such exposures by applying the hierarchy of controls. We adapt a control banding model for aerosol-transmissible infectious disease pandemic planning to encourage the use of source and pathway controls before receptor controls (personal protective equipment). Built on the recognition that aerosol-transmissible organisms are likely to exhibit a dose-response function, such that higher exposures result from longer contact times or higher air concentrations, this control banding model offers a systematic method for identifying a set of source and pathway controls that could eliminate or reduce the need for receptor controls. We describe several examples for workers at high risk of exposure in essential or return to work categories. The goal of using control banding for such workers is to develop effective infection and disease prevention programs and conserve personal protective equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Brosseau
- Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, University of Minnesota, Office of the Vice President for Research, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Robert Harrison
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Mastrantonio R, Scatigna M, D'Abramo M, Martinez V, Paoletti A, Fabiani L. Experimental Application of Semi-Quantitative Methods for the Assessment of Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Research Laboratories. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2020; 13:1929-1937. [PMID: 33116974 PMCID: PMC7547791 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s248469] [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: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of some chemical risk assessment semi-quantitative methods and also to identify potential bias or differences originated by applying different methods to the same activities. Methods We collected the data related to the chemical agents used in three different activities of three laboratories of an Italian university; the methods we compared were: MoVaRisCh, COSHH Essentials, LaboRisCh and Datarisch. Results The input parameters requested by each method are shown for each activity and for each used chemical. We collected the results obtained since the application of the four different tools in three tables. The use of some chemicals (especially of the activity n° three) shows a not irrelevant risk for the users. Conclusion Our findings show that COSHH Essentials, MoVaRisCh and Datarisch tools are consistent in the identification of a risk level; the small differences are related to risk rating, to be considered in relation with the specific structure of the method applied. The differences detected in the risk rating may be overcome by applying, for each working activity we want to assess, two or more different semi-quantitative tools. This strategy can allow to reduce the exposure to chemicals of the workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Mastrantonio
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maria Scatigna
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Marco D'Abramo
- Freelance Health and Safety Technician, Frosinone, Italy
| | - Viviana Martinez
- Abruzzo e Molise Interregional Transplant Coordination Centre, ASL1 Abruzzo, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Antonio Paoletti
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Leila Fabiani
- Department of Life, Health & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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Zalk DM, Swuste P. Barrier Banding: A Concept for Safety Solutions Utilizing Control Banding Principles. ACS CHEMICAL HEALTH & SAFETY 2020. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chas.9b00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David M. Zalk
- ES&H Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, PO Box 808, L-354, Livermore, California 94550, United States
| | - Paul Swuste
- Safety Science Group, Delft University of Technology, PO Box 5015, 2600 GA Delft, The Netherlands
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Exposure Models for REACH and Occupational Safety and Health Regulations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17020383. [PMID: 31936022 PMCID: PMC7013818 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17020383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Model tools for estimating hazardous substance exposure are an accepted part of regulatory risk assessments in Europe, and models underpin control banding tools used to help manage chemicals in workplaces. Of necessity the models are simplified abstractions of real-life working situations that aim to capture the essence of the scenario to give estimates of actual exposures with an appropriate margin of safety. The basis for existing inhalation exposure assessment tools has recently been discussed by some scientists who have argued for the use of more complex models. In our opinion, the currently accepted tools are documented to be the most robust way for workplace health and safety practitioners and others to estimate inhalation exposure. However, we recognise that it is important to continue the scientific development of exposure modelling to further elaborate and improve the existing methodologies.
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Dimou K, Emond C. Nanomaterials, and Occupational Health and Safety—A Literature Review About Control Banding and a Semi-Quantitative Method Proposed for Hazard Assessment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/838/1/012020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Terwoert J, Verbist K, Heussen H. An Intervention Study on the Implementation of Control Banding in Controlling Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. Saf Health Work 2016; 7:185-93. [PMID: 27630786 PMCID: PMC5011125 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Management and workers in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often find it hard to comprehend the requirements related to controlling risks due to exposure to substances. An intervention study was set up in order to support 45 SMEs in improving the management of the risks of occupational exposure to chemicals, and in using the control banding tool and exposure model Stoffenmanager in this process. Methods A 2-year intervention study was carried out, in which a mix of individual and collective training and support was offered, and baseline and effect measurements were carried out by means of structured interviews, in order to measure progress made. A seven-phase implementation evolutionary ladder was used for this purpose. Success and failure factors were identified by means of company visits and structured interviews. Results Most companies clearly moved upwards on the implementation evolutionary ladder; 76% of the companies by at least one phase, and 62% by at least two phases. Success and failure factors were described. Conclusion Active training and coaching helped the participating companies to improve their chemical risk management, and to avoid making mistakes when using and applying Stoffenmanager. The use of validated tools embedded in a community platform appears to support companies to organize and structure their chemical risk management in a business-wise manner, but much depends upon motivated occupational health and safety (OHS) professionals, management support, and willingness to invest time and means.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen Terwoert
- Centre of Expertise, Dutch Labour Inspectorate, Utrecht, Netherlands; TNO, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Koen Verbist
- Cosanta BV, Amstelveen, Netherlands; Arbo Unie, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Henri Heussen
- Cosanta BV, Amstelveen, Netherlands; Arbo Unie, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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Blais-Lecours P, Perrott P, Duchaine C. Non-culturable bioaerosols in indoor settings: Impact on health and molecular approaches for detection. ATMOSPHERIC ENVIRONMENT (OXFORD, ENGLAND : 1994) 2015; 110:45-53. [PMID: 32288547 PMCID: PMC7108366 DOI: 10.1016/j.atmosenv.2015.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Revised: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Despite their significant impact on respiratory health, bioaerosols in indoor settings remain understudied and misunderstood. Culture techniques, predominantly used for bioaerosol characterisation in the past, allow for the recovery of only a small fraction of the real airborne microbial burden in indoor settings, given the inability of several microorganisms to grow on agar plates. However, with the development of new tools to detect non-culturable environmental microorganisms, the study of bioaerosols has advanced significantly. Most importantly, these techniques have revealed a more complex bioaerosol burden that also includes non-culturable microorganisms, such as archaea and viruses. Nevertheless, air quality specialists and consultants remain reluctant to adopt these new research-developed techniques, given that there are relatively few studies found in the literature, making it difficult to find a point of comparison. Furthermore, it is unclear as to how this new non-culturable data can be used to assess the impact of bioaerosol exposure on human health. This article reviews the literature that describes the non-culturable fraction of bioaerosols, focussing on bacteria, archaea and viruses, and examines its impact on bioaerosol-related diseases. It also outlines available molecular tools for the detection and quantification of these microorganisms and states various research needs in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascale Blais-Lecours
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Phillipa Perrott
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Caroline Duchaine
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et de bioinformatique, Faculté des sciences et de génie, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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Kupczewska-Dobecka M, Czerczak S, Brzeźnicki S. Assessment of exposure to TDI and MDI during polyurethane foam production in Poland using integrated theoretical and experimental data. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2012; 34:512-518. [PMID: 22809748 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2012.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 06/22/2012] [Accepted: 06/23/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop an optimal strategy for the assessment of inhalation exposure to isocyanates such as TDI and MDI in the production of polyurethane foam by integration of theoretical and experimental data. ECETOC TRA and EASE predictive models were used to determine the estimated levels of exposure to isocyanates. The results of our study suggest that both applications EASE and ECETOC TRA can be used as a screening 1st Tier tool in this case study. PROC12 ECETOC TRA category can be linked to exposure on TDI during polyurethane foam manufacturing because it is working properly and exceeds 90th percentile measured concentration with factor 3 and the maximum measured value with factor 1, 5. The value estimated by using category PROC2 is underestimated so this category should not be linked to this scenario. At the same time, the applications of EASE overstate the expected concentrations although the scenario "Use in closed process" seems to underestimate the exposure at the "lower end". For MDI the both models estimate exposure in a conservative manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sławomir Czerczak
- Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Department of Chemical Safety, st. Teresy str. 8, 91-348 Lodz, Poland
| | - Sławomir Brzeźnicki
- Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Department of Chemical Safety, st. Teresy str. 8, 91-348 Lodz, Poland
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