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Objective: To incrementally improve the use of beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (LPT) results., Methods: Beryllium BioBank data were analyzed for 532 subjects in three groups: beryllium-exposed, sensitized, or chronic beryllium disease. Predictor variables were LPT stimulation index (SI) at the date of the earliest available data and at the study entry date., Results: Cross-sectionally, LPT SI magnitude does not distinguish among the three groups. The likelihood of progression from sensitization to disease is associated with the absolute value of SI, but LPT SI interpreted by traditional cut point criteria was not predictive., Conclusions: Updating the criteria for interpreting beryllium LPT data should be considered. Prediction of progression to chronic beryllium disease may be improved by changing the cut point for interpretation or by using the SI as a continuous variable.

Objective: To assess the importance of occupational history for beryllium-exposed workers., Methods: Beryllium BioBank data were analyzed for 532 subjects in the following three groups: beryllium-exposed, beryllium-sensitized, and chronic beryllium disease. Predictor variables were several questionnaire-derived exposure indices., Results: Cumulative exposure estimated from a standardized interview contributes to differentiating beryllium-exposed from chronic beryllium disease. The likelihood of progression from sensitization to disease was associated with peak-level weighted exposure hours., Conclusions: Selecting workers for extensive diagnostic testing should consider each worker's duration and characteristics of exposure. The intensity and total hours of exposure should be evaluated rather than relying on only the total years.

Objective: This study addresses methods for training respirator users, particularly when occupational health professionals are not immediately available., Methods: A randomized trial compared three training methods-printed brochure, video, and computer-based training-for two respirator types (filtering facepiece and a dual-cartridge half facemask). Quantitative fit testing (PortaCount) measured the effectiveness of training. The study included 226 subjects., Results: For both respirator types, video was significantly superior to either print or computer-based training methods. Conclusions were consistent, whether determined by average fit factor (analysis of variance), log-transformed fit factors, or the number of users in the lowest quartile of achieved fit., Conclusions: Video training for proper respirator use can be effective when direct training from an occupational health professional is unavailable. These methods are particularly relevant to "rapid rollout" situations, such as natural disasters, epidemics, or bioterrorism concerns.