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Introduction: The coir industry processes fibers from coconuts and is important for a high number of people in Sri Lanka. Coir workers handle several dangerous machines. This project has studied occupational injuries among coir workers. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in six medium-sized coir industries in Sri Lanka, each with 15-100 employees. The workers who were present at work on the two days the researchers visited the respective industries (128 of total 214 workers) were interviewed on socio-demographics, work tasks they normally perform and occupational injuries they had experienced in the last three months. Independent T-tests and Chi-square tests were used to analyze for differences between groups. Results: The mean age of the 128 interviewed workers was 45 years and 53.9% were male. Totally 34 (26.6%) of the workers had experienced at least one injury each during the past three months. Women reported significantly more injuries than men (38.9% vs 15.9%). The workers operating machines reported significantly more injuries than workers who performed other types of work (42.3% vs 22.0%). Slipped, tripped, and fall (64%) were the most common events of injury seen among the injured workers followed by cuts by sharp objects or machines (20%). The most common type of injury among the workers reporting injuries were cuts and bruises (50%). Conclusion: More than one-fourth of the workers reported to have been injured in the last three months, indicating a high injury risk. This raises concerns and highlights the need for preventative measures to minimize risks.

Background: In-situ burning (ISB) could be an effective cleanup method during spills. This study aims to study occupational exposure to pollutants emitted from offshore, large-scale ISB-experiments among personnel on vessels involved in ISB. Materials and methods: Six experimental ISBs after release of 4.2–6 m3 crude or refined oils were performed. Air measurements on three vessels were taken of particulate matter (PM) of different size fractions, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and volatile organic compounds (VOC). Results: One vessel was located upwind (about 80–140 m) from the burning oil while two work boats were positioned 200–400 m downwind. One of the work boats moved back and forth transverse to the smoke plume while the other followed the edge of the smoke plume downwind. During the burn period (28–63 min) the range of mean concentrations of PM2.5 particles in the closest work boat downwind from the burn (0.068–0.616 mg/m3) was considerably higher than in the upwind vessel (0.0198–0.029 mg/m3) and in the work boat moving downwind at the edge of the visible smoke (0.007–0.078 mg/m3). The particles were mainly in the PM

The aim of this study was to determine personal exposure to inhalable dust and endotoxin levels among workers in an integrated cotton-processing textile factory and exposure variability across the different work sections. Full shift measurements were carried out using inhalable conical samplers with 37 mm glass-fiber filters. Personal inhalable dust was determined gravimetrically, and endotoxin levels were analyzed by kinetic chromogenic Limulus Amebocytes Lysate assay. The geometric means of personal dust and endotoxin concentrations were 0.75 mg·m−3 and 831 EU·m−3, respectively. The highest dust and endotoxin concentrations were observed in carding section (1.34 mg·m−3 and 6,381 EU·m−3, respectively). Altogether, 11% of dust and 89% of endotoxin samples exceeded workplace exposure limits. This study showed a moderate correlation between inhalable dust and endotoxin (r = 0.450, p < 0.001). Our findings indicate that low dust exposure does not guarantee a low exposure to endotoxin.

ObjectivesThis study examined the association between night shift work and risk of breast cancer, overall and by hormone receptor subtype, among females in the Norwegian Offshore Petroleum Workers (NOPW) cohort. We also examined the association of coexposure (chlorinated degreasers and benzene) and breast cancer risk, and possible interaction with work schedule.DesignProspectively recruited case-cohort study within the NOPW cohort.SettingFemale offshore petroleum workers active on the Norwegian continental shelf.Participants600 female workers (86 cases and 514 non-cases) were included in the study. We excluded workers that died or emigrated before start of follow-up, had missing work history, were diagnosed with breast cancer or other prior malignancy (except non-melanoma skin cancer) before start of follow-up.ResultsNo overall association was found between breast cancer risk and work schedule (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.52 to 1.46 for work schedule involving night shift vs day shift only). There was no significant association between work schedule and risk of any breast cancer subtype. No significant interactions were found between work schedule and chemical coexposures (breast cancer overall Pinteraction chlorinated degreasers=0.725 and Pinteraction benzene=0.175).ConclusionsOur results did not provide supporting evidence that work schedule involving night shift affects breast cancer risk in female offshore petroleum workers, but should be considered cautiously due to few cases. Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted.

In situ burning (ISB) is an oil spill response technique including ignition and burning to remove oil on the water surface. The technique rapidly and effectively removes large portions of the oil. However, the combustion process causes a large smoke plume and leaves a viscous residue in the water. During six large-scale experimental burns in the North Sea in 2018 and 2019, the smoke plume, released oil and contained residues were analysed. The objectives were to document the content of particles and gases in the smoke plume, properties of both the released oils and residues, and the effectiveness of the burns. Oseberg crude oil, Ultra Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (ULSFO), Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO180) and Marine Gas Oil (MGO) were released into a fire-boom and ignited. Particles and gases in the smoke plume were monitored using drones with several sensors. Soot particle monitoring indicated that more than 90% of the particles produced during the burns were 90% for MGO, and

Coffee workers respiratory health problems, found to be associated with dust exposure in the coffee factories, but the content of the dust is not well known. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess the microbial contamination of coffee in dry and wet coffee process, from four farms in two regions of Ethiopia. A total of 36 samples of coffee were collected for laboratory investigation. The microbial load in the dry process ranged from 6.9 × 10

Background: Textile and garment factories are growing in low and middle-income countries; integrated textile and garment production factories are developing, where workers are exposed to dust and dangerous, noisy machines in the work environment. Hence, workers' health might be affected negatively due to exposure to different occupational hazards. However, the health condition of workers in this sector is not adequately investigated. The aim of this study is to describe the registered diagnoses of health problems and their association to work-related and personal factors among workers in integrated textile factories in Ethiopia. Methods: A one year recording of worker’s clinical diagnoses (between March 2016 and February 2017) was gathered from the respective factory clinics in three integrated textile factories. Sociodemographic characteristics and work-related information is obtained from the factory’s human resource departments. The association between the registered diagnoses and work-related factors (work in textile production, garment production and support department) and personal factors (age, gender and educational status) were studied using logistic regression analyses.Results: The socio-demographic and clinical diagnosis statuses of 7992 workers are analyzed. The average of workers' age and years of service is 40 years and 11 years, respectively. Majority 4778(60%) of workers are females; a total of 5276 (66%) of workers had 27320 clinical diagnoses; in total this causes 16993 working days lost due to sick leave. Respiratory diseases (34%) and musculoskeletal disorders (29%) were the most prevalent diagnoses, while injuries cause most of the days of work absence. Work department, gender and educational status are the variables that are significantly associated with several disease groups.Conclusions: About two-thirds of the integrated textile factory workers were diagnosed with different types of diseases. The textile and garment production department workers were more affected than the support department workers, indicating that some of the diseases are related to work in these departments. Further study should investigate the occurrence of rare chronic diseases such as cancer, heart diseases, renal diseases and diabetics in relation with workers exposure profile.

Objectives: Eucalyptus trees are used in the particleboard wood industry in Ethiopia. Dust and chemicals from this production may cause respiratory health problems, but the exposure levels have not been studied previously. The aim of this study was to assess workers’ exposure to inhalable dust, endotoxin, and formaldehyde in the two largest particleboard factories in Ethiopia, and compare the results with occupational exposure limits. Methods: A total of 152 inhalable dust and endotoxin samples were collected using a conductive plastic inhalable conical sampler (CIS), in addition to 45 formaldehyde samples using Dräger tubes for collection in two particleboard factories in Ethiopia. Linear mixed models were used to identify exposure determinants. Results: The geometric mean (GM) of inhalable dust exposure was 4.66 mg/m3 and 93% of the samples were above the threshold limit value of 1 mg/m3. For endotoxin exposure GM was 62.2 EU/m3, and 41% of samples were above the recommended occupational limit value of 90 EU/m3. Formaldehyde was added in a blending section of the production line, and the formaldehyde level was highest here (3.5 ppm). The level decreased at the workstations following blending, and 13% of the formaldehyde samples were above the peak exposure limit value of 1.0 ppm. Conclusions: The findings revealed exposure levels higher than recommended for inhalable dust, endotoxin, and formaldehyde in the particleboard factories. A reduction in dust, endotoxin, and formaldehyde exposure levels in these workplaces is recommended. We also recommend provision of proper personal protective equipment.

Background: Excess skin cancer mortality and incidence have been reported among both land-based and offshore petroleum workers. The association between skin cancer and ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure has not been examined in these workers, although they have long off-duty periods and high average income that may allow travelling to sunny destinations. In addition, they have access to solariums free of charge on many accommodation platforms. Aims: To prospectively examine risk of incident cutaneous melanoma (CM) and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), according to sun-tanning habits with adjustment for aromatic hydrocarbon exposure. Methods: A cohort of men employed offshore from 1965 to 1999 was linked through the Cancer Registry of Norway 1999–2012. Cox regression adapted to a stratified case-cohort design was used to estimate hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: The cohort included 24917 men. During 13.5 years of follow-up, 112 CMs and 70 NMSCs occurred. A positive dose–response relationship was seen between sunburn frequency and risk of CM (Ptrend < 0.05) and NMSC (Ptrend < 0.01). Solarium use both before and after age 20 was related to increased risk of NMSC. Sunscreen use was associated with increased risk of NMSC (Ptrend < 0.001). Conclusions: UVR exposure seems to be a significant contributor to the elevated risk of skin cancer observed in North Sea offshore workers. The positive association between solarium use and NMSC risk adds to the growing body of literature on artificial UV devices as carcinogenic. This research has been published in Occupational Medicine. © 2017 Oxford University Press

Background: We prospectively examined skin cancer risk according to occupational exposure to aromatic hydrocarbons with adjustment for ultraviolet radiation exposure, in a cohort of 24 917 male offshore petroleum workers. Methods: Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals were estimated with Cox regression adapted to a stratified case‐cohort design. Results: During 13.5 years of follow‐up, 112 cutaneous melanomas (CMs) and 70 non‐melanoma skin cancers were identified. Increased risks of CM and of squamous cell carcinoma on the forearm and hand were seen among those ever exposed to crude oil or benzene. For skin cancers of the forearm and hand combined, cumulative and duration metrics of benzene exposure showed Ptrends of 0.031 and 0.003, respectively. Conclusions: Our results support an association between exposure to crude oil or benzene and skin cancer risk on hands and forearms among offshore petroleum workers. Dermal uptake of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or benzene may explain this association. This research has been published in the American Journal of Industrial Medicine. © 2017 Wiley

We aimed to characterize bakers' personal exposure to airborne flour dust with respect to the health-related aerosol fractions inhalable, extrathoracic, and thoracic dust, and to examine possible production-related determinants of dust exposure. Sixty-eight bakers from 7 bakeries in Bergen, Norway (2009-2012) participated in the exposure assessment, comprising full-shift personal samples of inhalable dust (n = 107) and thoracic dust (n = 61). The relation between possible determinants and exposure was estimated using mixed effects models, while associations between the various aerosol fractions across task groups and type of bakeries were described by Pearson's correlation coefficients. Bakers' overall geometric mean personal exposure to inhalable, extrathoracic, and thoracic dust were 2.6 mg/m3 (95% CI: 2.0, 3.2), 2.2 mg/m3 (95% CI: 1.9, 2.7), and 0.33 mg/m3 (95% CI 0.3, 0.4), respectively. A total of 29% of the measurements of inhalable dust were above the Norwegian Occupational Exposure Limit of 3 mg/m3. The exposure variability of inhalable dust could not be explained by any of the examined production-related determinants, while the daily production volume explained 18% of the variance in thoracic dust exposure. Overall, the thoracic dust represented 15% of the inhalable dust, being rather stable across the production-related determinants. The overall correlation between inhalable and thoracic dust was nevertheless moderate (r = 0.52, p < 0.001), with the highest correlation for craft bakers (r = 0.62) and no correlation during dough forming (r = 0.01). Bakers are exposed to flour dust at a level that most likely represents an excess risk of developing chronic diseases of the respiratory system, and a decrease of present exposure level is imperative. Extrathoracic dust-likely the most relevant sub-fraction in respect to flour-induced sensitization and occupational rhinitis-represented the main proportion of the measured inhalable dust. The variation in correlation coefficients between the dust fractions across bakery types and task groups underlines the need of more knowledge about how these aerosol fractions are distributed across the production process and bakery types.

Iron and steel factory workers in Tanzania are likely to develop noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) due to exposure to high sound levels. Studies on hearing status in this population are lacking. The aims of this study were to determine prevalence of NIHL among iron and steel workers and compare hearing thresholds at different frequencies with a control group. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 221 iron and steel workers exposed to average noise level of 92 dB(A), compared with 107 primary school teachers recruited as controls and exposed to average noise level of 79.7 dB(A). We used a questionnaire-based interview to collect information on socio demographic characteristics and other confounding variables. Hearing loss was defined as hearing threshold levels &ge, 25 dB hearing loss in either ear at 3000, 4000 or 6000 Hz. The prevalence of hearing loss was significantly higher among the exposed group than among the controls, i.e. 48% and 31%, respectively. There were significant differences in hearing thresholds between the exposed and control groups at 3000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 Hz. Hearing loss was more frequent among workers exposed to higher noise levels than among the controls suggesting that iron and steel workers run a higher risk of developing hearing loss.

Chronic respiratory symptoms and reduction in lung function has been described as a common health problem among textile workers in low- and middle-income countries. The objective of this study was to measure lung function and respiratory symptoms among workers from an integrated textile factory. A comparative cross-sectional study design with a cross-shift lung function measurement was performed in 306 cotton dust exposed workers from an integrated textile factory and 156 control workers from a water bottling factory. An integrated textile factory typically has four main production departments (spinning, weaving, finishing, and garment) that process raw cotton and manufacture clothes or fabrics. Respiratory symptoms were assessed by adopting the standard American Thoracic Society questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and logistic and linear regression analysis were used. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was significantly higher among textile workers (54%) than in controls (28%). Chronic cough, chest tightness, and breathlessness were significantly higher among textile workers (23%, 33%, and 37%, respectively) than in the control group (5%, 17% and 6%, respectively). Breathlessness was the most prevalent chronic respiratory symptom with highest adjusted odds ratio 9.4 (95% CI 4.4&ndash, 20.3). A significantly higher cross-shift lung function reduction was observed among textile workers (123 mL for FEV1 and 129 mL for FVC) compared with the control group (14 mL for FEV1 and 12 mL for FVC). Thus, workers&rsquo, respiratory health protection programs should be strengthened in textile factories.

The flower industry in East Africa has grown in recent years, especially in the production and export of roses. The aim of this study was to assess pesticide use on selected flower farms in Ethiopia. Serum cholinesterase levels in workers were used as a marker of pesticide exposure. This study was a cross-sectional study involving 588 workers from 15 different flower farms. It had a response rate of 95.5%. The participants included 277 males (mean age 26 years, 148 pesticide sprayers and 129 non-sprayers) and 311 females (mean age 25 years, 156 working in greenhouses and 155 working outside the greenhouses). The researchers undertook structured interviews, blood sampling, and walkthrough surveys. Descriptive statistics and Poisson regression were used in the statistical analyses. A total of 154 different trade names of pesticides were found. Of them, 31 (27%) were classified as moderately hazardous by the WHO, and 9% were organophosphates. Serum levels of cholinesterase deviating from 50&ndash, 140 Michel units were considered abnormal. Abnormal serum cholinesterase levels (above 140 Michel units) were found in 97 participants (16.5%, 95% confidence interval 13.7&ndash, 19.7%). There were no differences between the four job groups regarding cholinesterase levels. The high prevalence of abnormal serum cholinesterase levels might indicate the presence of pesticide intoxication. Thus, there is a need for routine monitoring of all workers exposed to pesticides, not only sprayers.

Introduction In 2007, an oil tank in an industrial area in Norway exploded and caused a prolonged malodorous pollution. Previous studies have shown that acute physical and psychological health complaints are prevalent in populations recently affected by industrial accidents. However, follow-up studies of human health effects after such accidents are limited, and knowledge about long-term health effects among workers exposed to malodourous emissions following a chemical accident is scarce. The aim of the study was to assess whether subjective health complaints among employees in the industrial area and clean-up workers declined over a four-year period after an oil tank explosion, a period that included removal of the malodorous pollution. Methods A longitudinal survey from 2008 (1 ½ years after the explosion) to 2012 (5 ½ years after the explosion) was performed using the Subjective Health Complaints Inventory, a validated questionnaire. Data were analysed using a linear mixed effects model. Results In 2008, exposed workers (n=147) had significantly more health complaints such as headache, tiredness, sleep problems, dizziness and depression, compared to unexposed controls living far away from the explosion site (n=137). In 2012, there was a reduction of subjective health complaints among the exposed workers, but they still had significantly more subjective neurological symptoms (p Discussion It is likely that the overall decrease of subjective health complaints among exposed workers could be due to decreased exposure to malodorous pollutants or time passed since explosion. However, the persistent subjective neurological complaints might be mediated by perceived pollution and health risk perception. Worry might have caused a chronic effect, manifested by a dysfunctional and persistent neuropsychological response. A possible implication is that quick clean-up of malodorous chemical spills is important to avoid persistent health effects.

Introduction Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is apreventable disease. However, the global burden of NIHL is increasing; especially in developing countries. The prevalence of NIHL among metal industry workers in Sub Saharan countries including Tanzania is not well documented. Methods This study was conducted among male metal industry workers (Exposed, n=226) and Public Primary School teachers (Controls, n=110) between June 2016 and June 2017, in Dar es Salaam. The exposed were from four metal industries (Factory A, n=65; B, n=45; C, n=53; D, n=63). Hearing thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 KHz were examined using Interacoustic AD 226 audiometer. NIHL was defined as hearing threshold levels>25 dB in either ear at 3, 4 and 6 KHz. The WHO classification of hearing loss was used. Results The prevalence of NIHL among exposed was 50% and 47% in the right and left ear, respectively. The highest prevalence was found in factory B(71% and 62%), followed by D(48% and 54%), A(48% and 48%), and the lowest in factory C(37% and 25%) in the right and left ear, respectively. The proportion of mild, moderate and severe NIHL in the right and left ear was 80% and 79%, 20% and 18%, 0% and 2%, respectively. Among controls, the prevalence of NIHL was 31% and 28% in the right and left ear, respectively. The proportion of mild, moderate, severe NIHL in the right and left ear was 86% and 76, 11% and 15%, 3% and 0%, respectively. Nine percent of the controls had profound NIHL in the left ear and none among exposed. Discussion We found high prevalence of NIHL among Tanzanian metal industry workers. Further studies on noise exposure and the determinants for reduced hearing are needed. Establishment of a hearing conservation program in the metal industries seems to be important.

Introduction Oil spill cleanup personnel could be exposed to benzene during cleanup of accidental spill of crude oil at sea. S-Phenyl Mercapturic Acid (SPMA) is reported to be a sensitive urinary marker of exposure to low levels of benzene, but there is a lack of information on biological uptake of benzene during cleanup of oil spills. The aim of this study was to investigate the exposure to benzene during an oil spill by measuring the concentration of SPMA in urine for subjects participating in an oil spill field trial at sea. Methods The study included 22 subjects taking part in an oil spill field trial in the North Sea with two types of fresh crude oil. The subjects were located in open air sampling boats close to the oil slick ( Results SPMA was not detected in the urine samples of subjects wearing protective masks and in the control group. Among the six subjects who reported not to wear protective masks during the spill the concentration of SPMA in urine ranged 0.5–3.3 µmol/mol. They were all located in the boat closest to the oil spill. Discussion We have previously reported that mean personal exposure to benzene in air was 0.43 ppm for the personnel in the boat closest to the oil spill. The present study suggests that work with fresh oil spilled at sea might cause biological uptake of benzene. Appropriate personal respiratory protection should be used to prevent such uptake.

Introduction Exposure to organic dust may lead to decrease in lung function among healthy subjects or development of respiratory symptoms. Studies done among coffee workers reported significant exposure to endotoxins with no evidence of decrease in lung function. The current study aimed at determining seasonal variation of lung function among coffee workers due to endotoxin exposure. Methods The study was done in coffee factory where 30 workers were monitored for one season of coffee processing that is from June 2016 to February 2017. Lung function tests were performed once in the morning on any day before the season, then on Monday morning and Friday evening at mid-season and end of the season. A portable spirometer WinspiroLIGHT was used. ATS/ERS guidelines were followed. All measurements were taken in standing position. Data was analysed by paired-sample T-test. Smoking and age used to adjust lung function change in linear regression. Results The mean age of participants was 38 (8.4) and mean time of working in coffee factories was 10 (6.8) years. There was a significant decrease of 24 and 20 mls for FEV 1 and FVC, the change being high in the mid-season compared to end season. Improved in FEV 1 (3.29 l/s – 3.65 l/s) at the beginning of season to mid-season was observed. Discussion Lung function decrease is observed along the season with higher decrease at the end of season. The slight increase in FEV 1 between beginning of season and mid-season could be due to cessation of exposure.

Introduction Rock drills expose workers to high levels of hand-arm vibration, and extensive use of these tools give an increased risk of hand-arm vibration syndrome. Hand-arm vibration exposure can be difficult to estimate by using the task-based method because of an intermittent exposure pattern and changing working conditions throughout the work shift. New advances in measurement technology make it possible to perform full-shift measurements at the workplace. Methods Hand-arm vibration exposure for rock drillers/rock face stabilisers in Norway was assessed by full-shift field measurements with Svantek SV103 vibration metres on both right and left hand simultaneously. Result The mean daily vibration exposure for the rock drillers was 4.9 m/s2(A8) (range 2.7–8.8) for the right hand and 4.4 m/s2(A8) (1.0–7.0) for the left hand, based on 17 full-shift measurements. The mean exposure magnitude from the tools was 14.0 m/s2 (9.2–20.0). For 12 of the 17 measurements the exposure was highest on the dominant hand. Discussion The full-shift method was practical to implement in the field measurements, and should be considered as an alternative to the task based method. This method has the potential to reduce the uncertainties associated with unpredictable changes in exposure like changing hardness of the rock. The daily exposure to hand-arm vibrations for the rock drillers was high compared to the occupational exposure limit. Thus, implementation of efficient strategies to reduce vibration exposure is important.

Introduction Machines and processes in the metal industry produce noise levels that are harmful to the human ear if not properly controlled. Empirical studies are lacking to document noise exposure which is one of the stepping stones towards development and enforcement of policies, and standards on noise control in developing countries, including Tanzania where this is lacking. Methods The study was conducted from June 2016 to June 2017. Full-shift noise measurements (LAeq) were taken by personal dosimeters (Bruel and Kjaer type 4448) in four metal factories in Tanzania (Factory A; 47 measurements, B; 47, C; 34 and D; 40). Workers were randomly selected from payroll and shift list and assigned into job groups; Melters, moulders, firemen, tongsmen, roughing, cutters and pushers. Results Personal noise exposure varied both within and between factories. The average noise exposure was 91.6 dB(A) in factory A, 96.7 dB(A) in factory B, 93.7 dB(A) in factory C and 89.9 dB(A) in factory D. The moulders had the lowest noise exposure (87.3 dB(A)), followed by melters (89.9 dB(A)), pushers (91.6 dB(A)), tongsmen (93.7 dB(A)), roughing (94.2 dB(A)), firemen (94.5 dB(A)) and cutters/bundlers (98.1 dB(A)). Discussion To our knowledge this is the first study in East Africa to document personal noise exposure levels in metal industries. The noise exposure exceeded the occupational exposure limit used by OSHA, Tanzania. This study is expected to serve as an important input towards the development of the country’s own regulations regarding noise exposure at the workplace.

The objective of this study was to examine self-reported frequency of occupational exposure reported by 28,000 Norwegian offshore oil workers in a 1998 survey. Predictors of self-reported exposure frequency were identified to aid future refinements of an expert-based job-exposure-time matrix (JEM). We focus here on reported frequencies for skin contact with oil and diesel; exposure to oil vapor from shaker, to exhaust fumes, vapor from mixing chemicals used for drilling, natural gas, chemicals used for water injection and processing, and to solvent vapor. Exposure frequency was reported by participants as the exposed proportion of the work shift, defined by six categories, in their current or last position offshore (between 1965 and 1999). Binary Poisson regression models with robust variance were used to examine the probabilities of reporting frequent exposure (≥frac14; vs.frac14; of work shift) according to main activity, time period, supervisory position, type of company, type of installation, work schedule, and education. Holding a non-supervisory position, working shifts, being employed in the early period of the offshore industry, and having only compulsory education increased the probability of reporting frequent exposure. The identified predictors and group-level patterns may aid future refinement of the JEM previously developed for the present cohort.

Background Machines, processes, and tasks in the iron and steel factories may produce noise levels that are harmful to hearing if not properly controlled. Studies documenting noise exposure levels and related determinants in sub-Saharan Africa, including Tanzania are lacking. The aim of this study was to document noise exposure and to identify determinants of noise exposure with a view to establishing an effective hearing conservation programme. Methods A walk-through survey was conducted to describe the working environment in terms of noise sources in four metal factories (A–D) in Tanzania. Noise measurements were conducted by both personal, full-shift noise measurements (8 h) using dosimeters and area measurements (10-s measurements) using a sound level meter. A total of 163 participants had repeated personal noise measurements (Factory A: 46 participants, B: 43, C: 34, and D: 40). Workers were randomly selected and categorized into 13 exposure groups according to their job. Linear mixed effects models were used to identify significant determinants of noise exposure in the furnace section and the rolling mill section. Results The average personal noise exposure in the four factories was 92.0 dB(A) (range of job group means; 85.4–96.2 dB(A)) (n = 326). Personal exposure was significantly higher in the rolling mill section (93.0 dB(A)) than in the furnace section (89.6 dB(A)). Among the job groups, the cutters located in the rolling mill section had the highest noise exposure (96.2 dB(A)). In the furnace section, furnace installation (below the ground floor), manual handling of raw materials/billets/crowbars, and billet weighing/transfer were significant determinants explaining 40% of the total variance in personal noise exposure. In the rolling mill section, the size of the cutting machine, steel billet weight and feeding re-heating furnace explained 46% of the total variance in personal noise exposure. The mean noise level of the area measurements was 90.5 dB(A) (n = 376). Conclusion Workers in the four iron and steel factories in Tanzania were exposed to average noise of 92.0 dB(A), without using hearing protection, implying a high risk of developing hearing loss. Task and factory level determinants were identified in the furnace and the rolling mill sections of the plant, which can inform noise control in factories with similar characteristics.

Background Coffee processing has been shown to cause high dust exposure among the workers, but there are few studies from primary processing of coffee, and none of them is from Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to assess dust exposure and its determinants among workers in primary coffee processing factories of Ethiopia. Methods A total of 360 personal ‘total’ dust samples were collected from the breathing zone of workers in 12 primary coffee processing factories in Ethiopia. Dust sampling was performed with 25-mm three piece conductive cassettes with cellulose acetate filters attached to pumps with flow rate of 2 l min−1 for an average sampling duration of 410 min. The dust samples were analysed gravimetrically using a standard microbalance scale. An observational checklist was used to collect information about possible determinants of dust exposure in the work environment. Linear mixed effect regression models were used to identify significant determinants of total dust exposure. Results Personal total dust exposure levels varied between the three main job groups with a geometric mean (GM) of 12.54 mg m−3 for the machine room workers, 12.30 mg m−3 for the transport workers, and 1.08 mg m−3 for hand pickers. In these three groups, 84.6%, 84.1% and 2.6% of the samples exceeded the occupational exposure limit for organic total dust of 5 mg m−3, respectively. The mixed-effects model for the machine room workers explained 21% of the total variance in total dust exposure, and showed that vigorously pouring coffee from a dropping height was associated with an about two times increase in exposure. For the transport workers, the mixed-effects model that included pouring method of coffee beans, number of huller machine in the room, mixing coffee, and feeding hopper explained 32% of total variance in personal total dust exposure. Conclusion About 84% of the dust samples among machine room and transport workers in primary coffee processing factories were above the occupational exposure limit value for organic dust. Proper control measures are necessary to reduce the exposure.

Background Foul-smelling environmental pollution was a major concern following a chemical workplace explosion. Malodorous pollution has previously been associated with aggravated physical and psychological health. Furthermore, in persons affected by a trauma, an incidence-related odour can act as a traumatic reminder. Olfaction may even be of significance in the development and persistence of post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Aims To assess whether perceived smell related to malodorous environmental pollution in the aftermath of the explosion was a determinant of subjective health complaints (SHC) and PTSS among gainfully employed adults before and after clean-up of the malodorous pollution. Methods Questionnaire data from validated instruments, the Subjective Health Complaints Inventory and the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, were analysed using mixed effects models in a longitudinal study design comprising three surveys. Individual odour scores were computed, and the participants (n=486) were divided into high (n=233) and low (n=253) odour score groups. Results Participants in the high odour score group reported more SHC and PTSS than those in the low odour score group, before and also after the pollution was eliminated. The difference between the groups lasted for at least three years after the pollution was eliminated. Conclusion Perception of malodorous environmental air pollution was a determinant of both SHC and PTSS. Prompt clean-up might be important to avoid persistent health effects after malodorous chemical spills.

Objectives Prior studies have indicated a high prevalence of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) among Navy personnel; however, it is not clear whether this is caused by work on board. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of hearing loss among Navy personnel in the Royal Norwegian Navy (RNoN), and to investigate whether there is an association between work on board RNoN vessels and occurrence of hearing loss. Methods Navy personnel currently working on board RNoN vessels were recruited to complete a questionnaire on noise exposure and health followed by pure tone audiometry. Hearing loss was defined as hearing threshold levels ≥25 dB in either ear at the frequencies 3,000, 4,000 or 6,000 Hz. Hearing thresholds were adjusted for age and gender using ISO 7029. Results The prevalence of hearing loss among Navy personnel was 31.4 %. The work exposure variables: years of work in the Navy, years on vessel(s) in the Navy and years of sailing in the Navy were associated with reduced hearing after adjusting for age, gender and otitis as an adult. Among the work exposure variables, years of sailing in the Navy was the strongest predictor of reduced hearing, and significantly reduced hearing was found at the frequencies 1,000, 3,000 and 4,000 Hz. Conclusions Our results indicate that time spent on board vessels in the RNoN is a predictor of reduced hearing. publishedVersion

The aim of the study was to assess whether exposed workers had more subjective health complaints than controls 1 1/2 years after a chemical explosion involving a mixture of hydrocarbons and sulfurous compounds. A cross-sectional survey based on the Subjective Health Complaints Inventory (SHC) was conducted among 147 exposed workers and 137 controls. A significantly higher total SCH score (linear regression, p=.01) was found for the exposed workers compared with controls when adjusting for gender, age, smoking habits, and educational level. The exposed workers reported significantly more headache, hot flashes, sleep problems, tiredness, dizziness, and sadness/depression. The cause of these complaints is unknown, but health personnel should be aware that health complaints might be related to polluting episodes even when exposure levels are below occupational guideline levels.

To compare total dust exposure, prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms, lung function, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among Tanzanian cement workers before (2002) and after (2010-2011) establishment of dust-control measures.Personal total dust-exposure measurements, questionnaire assessment for chronic respiratory symptoms, and spirometry were conducted in both examination periods.Total dust exposure was lower in 2010-2011 than in 2002. The prevalence of most chronic respiratory symptoms and COPD was lower in 2010 than in 2002. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), percentage predicted FEV1, and percentage predicted forced vital capacity were higher among cement workers in 2010 than in 2002.There was reduced total dust exposure level, lower prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms and COPD, and higher lung function among cement workers in 2010 than in 2002.

Many amateur musicians are likely to be exposed to high sound levels during rehearsals. Measuring otoacoustic emissions (OAE) is an objective technique to assess hearing ability and can be used as an early predictor of hearing loss. This study aimed to record sound levels at an amateur brass band rehearsal and to examine the cochlear function of the musicians by evaluating distortion product (DP) OAE amplitudes before and after sound exposure. Twenty-four brass band musicians and 10 office workers were examined with personal noise measurements and DPOAE tests before and after a music rehearsal or one office workday, respectively. The sound levels in the brass band ranged from 92 to 100 dB(A), LaEQ 96 dB(A). However, the amateur brass band members had no change in DPOAEs after this exposure compared to pre-exposure levels and compared to office workers.

Background: It has been suggested that dust exposure causes airway inflammation among cement factory workers. However, there is limited information on the mechanisms of this effect. We explored any associations between total dust exposure and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) as a marker of airway eosinophilic inflammation among cement production workers in Tanzania. We also examined possible differences in FENO concentration between workers in different parts of the production line. Methodology: We examined 127 cement workers and 28 controls from a mineral water factory. An electrochemistry-based NIOX MINO device was used to examine FENO concentration. Personal total dust was collected from the breathing zone of the study participants using 37 mm cellulose acetate filters placed in three-piece plastic cassettes. Interviews on workers’ background information were conducted in the Swahili language. Results: We found equal concentrations of FENO among exposed workers and controls (geometric mean (GM)=16 ppb). The GM for total dust among the exposed workers and controls was 5.0 and 0.6 mg/m³, respectively. The FENO concentrations did not differ between the exposed workers with high (GM≥5 mg/m³) and low (GM

Objectives This study is the first step in a larger study that aims to investigate the potential human exposure to hazardous hydrocarbons in air during oil spill combat offshore. The aim was to measure n-hexane, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes and naphthalene evaporated from fresh, light crude oils, and identify determinants significantly influencing the benzene evaporation. Methods A small scale open oil-on-water exposure system filled with seawater was used to produce a thin oil film ( Results Toluene, followed by benzene, ethylbenzene and n-hexane, yielded the highest air concentrations (6.0–11.3 ppm) of the measured VOCs, and declined rapidly with time. Xylenes and naphthalene yielded lower air concentrations (0.1–1.6 ppm) and did not show analogous decline during sampling. Benzene exceeded the short-term occupational exposure limit at both 2°C (3.5 ppm) and 13°C (4.6 ppm) the first 15 minutes of sampling. Benzene content in fresh oil, oil group (condensate/light oil) and wax content in fresh oil were significant determinants explaining 59–78% of the total variance in the outcome variables.

Introduction Work in primary coffee factories exposes workers to various hazardous agents. At farms coffee is dried on mat or on the ground (Robusta coffee) or on sieves (Arabica coffee). Arabica is depulped and washed before drying. Afterwards, the coffee is brought to primary coffee factories, and the study will determine the level of exposure to dust and endotoxin and respiratory health effects among workers in these factories. Methods Personal total dust samples were collected from four primary coffee factories n = 193. These were analysed gravimetrically and out of those; 154 samples were analysed for endotoxin. A standardised questionnaire adapted from ATS was used. Asthma symptoms questions from ERCHS questionnaire were added. Lung function test were performed (n = 133). Determinants of exposure and correlation to lung function were analysed using linear mixed-effect model and linear regression Results The personal total dust and endotoxin exposure levels were higher in Robusta coffee factories (Geometric Mean 3.42 mg/m³ and 10800 EU/m³) compared to Arabica (GM 2.10 mg/m³ and 1380 EU/m³). Working with dry pre-processed coffee (Robusta) increased endotoxin levels 7 times compared to washed coffee. Workers in Robusta factories had more asthma symptoms (38% vs. 18% ORadj 3.5; 95% CI; 1.4–9.0) compared to Arabica workers. A decrease of 21.4 ml/s in FEV 1 and 0.22% in FEV 1 /FVC ratio in lung function may be realised by a worker exposed to endotoxin in these factories for one season. Conclusion Workers in coffee factories are exposed to high levels of endotoxin and likely to develop respiratory health effects. The respiratory symptoms are seen even at lower levels of dust exposure thus suggesting occupational exposure limit (OEL) for organic dust might be safer if derived from endotoxin levels.

Background Assess if people who lived or worked in an area polluted after an oil tank explosion had persistent respiratory health impairment as compared to a non-exposed population 5.5 years after the event. Methods A follow-up study 5.5 years after the explosion, 330 persons aged 18–67 years, compared lung function, lung function decline and airway symptoms among exposed persons (residents 20 km away). Also men in the exposed group who had participated in accident related tasks (firefighting or clean-up of pollution) were compared with men who did not. Data were analysed using Poisson regression, adjusted for smoking, occupational exposure, atopy and age. Results Exposed men who had participated in accident related tasks had higher prevalence of lower airway symptoms after 5.5 years (n = 24 [73%]) than non-exposed men (28 [48%]), (adjusted relative risk 1.51 [95% confidence interval 1.07, 2.14]). Among men who participated in accident related tasks FEV1 decline was 48 mL per year, and 12 mL among men who did not (adjusted difference −34 mL per year [−67 mL, −1 mL]), and at follow-up FEV1/FVC ratio was 71.4 and 74.2% respectively, (adjusted difference −3.0% [−6.0, 0.0%]). Conclusion Residents and workers had more airway symptoms and impaired lung function 5.5 years after an oil tank explosion, most significant for a group of men engaged in firefighting and clean-up of pollution after the accident. Public health authorities should be aware of long-term consequences after such accidents. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12890-016-0357-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Objective: Assessment of changes in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) across the shift was performed among cement production workers and controls. FENO was used as a possible marker of eosinophilic inflammation in the airways. In addition, the relations between personal total dust exposure and FENO changes across the work shift were examined. Methods: Pre-and post-shift FENO levels were determined among 55 non-smoking dust exposed cement production workers and among 31 non-smoking mineral water factory workers as controls. The FENO levels were examined for three consecutive days among the exposed and two consecutive days among controls. Personal total dust levels were collected in the breathing zone of each participant using cellulose acetate filters on the first day of FENO examination. A three-piece Millipore cassette was used to place the filters and the cassette was connected to a Side Kick Cassela pump at a flow rate of 2 l/minute. Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in FENO levels among exposed workers, but not among controls. The reduction in FENO levels among the exposed was observed on each day of FENO examination. The cross-shift reduction in FENO levels among the exposed did not show possible associations with personal total dust exposure levels (r=-0.175, 95% CI: -0.36, 0.04). The geometrical mean for total dust exposure were 8.3 mg/m3 and 0.28 mg/m3, among exposed workers and controls, respectively. Conclusion: The results show a cross-shift reduction of FENO among cement workers and indicate that dust exposure is not associated with this finding. The reason for the reduction in FENO across the shift is unknown. Researchers in this field should be aware of potential unknown confounders when performing future studies.

OBJECTIVE: To study dust exposure and inflammatory reactions in the respiratory tract among coffee curing workers in Tanzania. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a Tanzanian coffee curing factory. Coffee workers (n = 15) were compared with unexposed controls (n = 18); all workers were nonsmokers. Exhaled nitric oxide was examined using an electrochemistry-based NIOX MINO device. Personal air samples were analyzed for total dust and endotoxins, using gravimetric analysis and the chromogenic Limulus amebocyte lysate endpoint assay, respectively. RESULTS: Total dust levels ranged from 0.2 to 27.9 mg/m, and endotoxin levels ranged from 42 to 75,083 endotoxin units/m. Concentrations of exhaled nitric oxide, analyzed by linear regression and adjusted for age (β = 0.57; 95% confidence interval, 0.08 to 1.06; P = 0.02), was higher among coffee workers than among the control group. CONCLUSION: The results indicate a relationship between the coffee dust and signs of respiratory inflammation. (Less)

Measurements of cadmium (Cd) in air, soil and moss have shown elevated concentrations in residential areas close to a zinc smelter in Norway. This study aimed to evaluate whether men and women residing in the area with elevated Cd concentrations in air and soil had increased levels of Cd and microproteins in urine. An invitation to participate was mailed to 200 persons residing close to the zinc smelter and to 200 controls from an area more than 4 km away from the smelter. They were asked to complete a questionnaire, and to deliver a urine sample for analysis of cadmium (CdU), mercury (HgU), lead (PbU) and α1-microglobulin (ProteinHC). Two hundred and six participants (response rate 52%), between 19 and 88 years of age, were included. Results were analysed by multiple-adjusted linear and logistic regression. CdU was not significantly different between individuals in the two residence areas. Only ten individuals had CdU concentrations exceeding European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) critical value of 1 μg/g creatinine, whereas 35 persons (22% of the women vs. 11% of the men) had CdU concentrations higher than 0.66 μg/g creatinine, which EU suggested to be sufficiently protective for the general population. Smoking was the predominant contributing factor to values of elevated CdU. There was a tendency of higher CdU, although not statistically significant, amongst people regularly consuming fruit, berries and vegetables grown in their own garden near the smelter area. Home address in the polluted area was not a significant determinant. There was a positive correlation between CdU and ProteinHC in urine, but no significant difference was found for ProteinHC between residents from polluted area and controls. In spite of demonstrated industrial emissions of cadmium, the results do not indicate elevated cadmium exposure or kidney damage in the polluted area compared to the control area.

Limestone processing is a global industry, but few studies have assessed respiratory health among limestone workers. At a limestone factory in Zambia, the authors studied 70 high-exposed workers from the production department, 40 medium-exposed from engineering, and 30 low-exposed from administration. A modified British Medical Research Council respiratory questionnaire was used for recording chronic respiratory symptoms. The prevalence of symptoms was highest among the production workers. After adjusting for age, smoking, previous jobs, and past respiratory diseases, the production workers still had a significantly increased relative risk for cough day and night, cough 4 to 6 times daily in a month, and cough with sputum. The results indicate that exposure to limestone dust is associated with increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms. Until newer technology is installed, proper use of personal protective equipments should be emphasized.

Dust exposure is one of the major risk factors for respiratory health in many workplaces, including coffee factories. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and lung function reduction among workers in Ethiopian primary coffee processing factories, compared to a control group of workers. A total of 115 coffee workers and 110 water bottling workers were involved in this study, from 12 coffee and 3 water bottling factories in Ethiopia, respectively. The chronic respiratory symptoms were assessed using a structured interview, using a standardized questionnaire adopted from the American Thoracic Society (ATS). The lung function tests were performed according to the ATS recommendation for spirometry. The coffee workers had a significantly higher prevalence of coughing, coughing with sputum, breathlessness, work-related shortness of breath, and wheezing compared with the controls. The prevalence ratio of work-related shortness of breath (PR = 3.7, 95% CI: 1.6&ndash, 8.7) and wheezing (PR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.3&ndash, 8.4) was significantly higher for the coffee workers compared to the controls. The coffee workers in the age groups 28&ndash, 39 years and &ge, 40 years, had a significantly lower forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s compared to the controls in the similar age groups. The findings indicated the need for longitudinal studies on the possible effect of coffee dust on respiratory health of coffee production workers.

The objective of this study was to develop regression models to predict concentrations of oil mist and oil vapor in the workplace atmosphere in the shale shaker area of offshore drilling installations. Collection of monitoring reports of oil mist and oil vapor in the mud handling areas of offshore drilling installations was done during visits to eight oil companies and five drilling contractors. A questionnaire was sent to the rig owners requesting information about technical design of the shaker area. Linear mixed-effects models were developed using concentration of oil mist or oil vapor measured by stationary sampling as dependent variables, drilling installation as random effect, and potential determinants related to process technical parameters and technical design of the shale shaker area as fixed effects. The dataset comprised stationary measurements of oil mist (n = 464) and oil vapor (n = 462) from the period 1998 to 2004. The arithmetic mean concentrations of oil mist and oil vapor were 3.89 mg/m(3) and 39.7 mg/m(3), respectively. The air concentration models including significant determinants such as viscosity of base oil, mud temperature, well section, type of rig, localization of shaker, mechanical air supply, air grids in outer wall, air curtain in front of shakers, and season explained 35% and 17% of the total variance in oil vapor and oil mist, respectively. The developed models could be used to indicate what impact differences in technical design and changes in process parameters have on air concentrations of oil mist and oil vapor. Thus, the models will be helpful in planning control measures to reduce the potential for occupational exposure.

Benzene, an aromatic hydrocarbon that is a natural component of crude oil and natural gas, is toxic to the blood and blood-forming organs. Epidemiological studies have established an association between benzene exposure and acute myeloid leukemia, and increasing evidence also indicates a possible association between benzene and multiple myeloma. A specific benzene-associated myelodysplastic syndrome has also been suggested. Chronic hematotoxic effects of benzene exposure, including reduced lymphocyte, neutrophil and platelet counts in peripheral blood, have been detected at occupational exposure below a level that had previously been considered not to cause any health effects. Whether these abnormalities represent bone marrow damage and/or initial events in the development of a true neoplastic disease is not known. Together with a reported nonlinear relationship between benzene exposure and the level of various metabolites, favoring production of biologically reactive quinones at exposure below 1 part per million, these observations suggest that benzene even at low exposure levels may contribute to the risk of acute myeloid leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome, especially among genetically susceptible individuals. publishedVersion

Respiratory health among sisal workers has been an unresolved issue of concern for many years. The authors performed a 1-week follow-up questionnaire study on acute respiratory symptoms and cross-shift peak expiratory flows among 163 sisal brushing and decortication workers (exposed participants) and 31 security workers (control participants) from 6 sisal estates in Tanzania. The authors used the Optimal Symptom Score Questionnaire on Acute Respiratory Symptoms and the standardized American Thoracic Society and British Medical Research Council respiratory questionnaires. Decortication and brushing workers had a higher prevalence and higher severity scores of acute symptoms throughout the week than did control participants. Shortness of breath among brushing workers decreased (p < .01) from 39% on Monday to 20% on Friday. Brushing workers also had significantly higher prevalence of chronic sputum (30%) and chest tightness (48%) and the lowest preshift and postshift PEF values. The authors recommend preventive measures and further research.

Benzene exposure has been shown to be related to acute myelogenous leukemia, while the association with multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma has been a much-debated issue. We performed a historical cohort study to investigate whether workers employed in Norway's upstream petroleum industry exposed to crude oil and other products containing benzene have an increased risk of developing various subtypes of hematologic neoplasms. Using the Norwegian Registry of Employers and Employees we included all 27,919 offshore workers registered from 1981 to 2003 and 366,114 referents from the general working population matched by gender, age, and community of residence. The cohort was linked to the Cancer Registry of Norway. Workers in the job category "upstream operator offshore", having the most extensive contact with crude oil, had an excess risk of hematologic neoplasms (blood and bone marrow) (rate ratio (RR) 1.90, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.19-3.02). This was ascribed to an increased risk of acute myelogenous leukemia (RR 2.89, 95% CI: 1.25-6.67) and multiple myeloma (RR 2.49, 95% CI: 1.21-5.13). There were no statistical differences between the groups in respect to non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The results suggest that benzene exposure, which most probably caused the increased risk of acute myelogenous leukemia, also resulted in an increased risk of multiple myeloma.

This study presents and evaluates an expert group's assessment of exposure to carcinogens for defined job categories in Norway's offshore petroleum industry, 1970-2005, to provide exposure information for a planned cohort study on cancer. Three university and five industry experts in occupational hygiene individually assessed the likelihood of exposure to 1836 combinations of carcinogens (n=17), job categories (n=27) and time periods (n=4). In subsequent plenary discussions, the experts agreed on exposed combinations. Agreement between the individual and the panel assessments was calculated by Cohen's kappa index. Using the panel assessment as reference, sensitivity and specificity were estimated. The eight experts assessed 63% of the 1836 combinations in plenary, resulting in 265 (14%) convened exposed combinations. Chlorinated hydrocarbons, benzene and inhalation of mineral oils had the highest number of exposed job categories (n=14, 9 and 10, respectively). The job categories classified as exposed to the highest numbers of carcinogens were the mechanics (n=10), derrick workers (n=6) and process technicians (n=5). The agreement between the experts' individual assessments and the panel assessment was kappa=0.53-0.74. The sensitivity was 0.55-0.86 and specificity 0.91-0.97. For these parameters, there were no apparent differences between the university experts and the industry experts. The resulting 265 of 1836 possible exposure combinations convened as "exposed" by expert assessment is presented in this study. The experts' individual ratings highly agreed with the succeeding panel assessment. Correlation was found between years of experience of the raters and agreement with the panel. The university experts and the industry experts' assessments had no apparent differences. Further validation of the exposure assessment is suggested, such as by new sampling data or observational studies.

Background Few studies have focused on respiratory health effects among sisal workers. Aim To report on the prevalence of acute respiratory symptoms among sisal processors. Methods We interviewed 163 dust-exposed brushing and decortication workers and 31 low-exposed security workers from six sisal estates in Tanzania using a modified symptom score questionnaire to determine the prevalence of acute respiratory symptoms during work. Groups were compared using chi-square tests, Fisher's exact tests, t-tests and logistic regression, adjusting for confounding factors. Results After the first working day of the week, 73% of the brushing workers reported dry cough, 66% sneezing, 65% productive cough, 63% running nose and 34% stuffy nose. Brushing workers had a significantly higher prevalence of these symptoms than decortication workers. Brushing and decortication workers had significantly more dry cough and sneezing than the control group of security workers, when adjusting for age, smoking, past respiratory diseases and residence. Conclusion Processors of sisal fibre have a high prevalence of acute respiratory symptoms. More detailed studies on work and health in sisal estates are needed, including exposure studies.

Personal exposures to ammonia and acute respiratory effects were determined in workers at a urea fertilizer factory in Bangladesh. Full-shift personal exposure to ammonia was measured using a PAC III direct reading instrument and Drager diffusion tubes. Respiratory symptoms were elicited by a questionnaire study (n = 113), and preshift and postshift lung function (FVC, FEV1, and PEFR) were tested using spirometry (n = 88). Urea plant workers had higher mean exposure to ammonia and prevalence of acute respiratory symptoms than did workers in the ammonia plant. The symptoms with highest prevalence in the urea plant were chest tightness (33%) and cough (28%). FVC and FEV1 decreased significantly across the work shift among urea plant workers. The higher level of exposure to ammonia in the urea plant was associated with an increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms and an acute decline in lung function.

Background: Greenhouse workers are exposed to organic dusts, and they are thereby at risk of developing airway disorders. This study aims to measure personal endotoxin exposure, assess respiratory symptoms and measure fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) among female flower farm workers in Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving female workers (n = 248) from four flower farms was conducted. The workers were interviewed for respiratory symptoms using a standard questionnaire. Workers from two of these farms also participated in personal endotoxin sampling (46 workers, 75 measurements) on glass fiber filters (0.2 μm pore size) inside conductive 25 mm Millipore cassettes for sampling of the “total dust” fraction. They also participated in FeNO (n = 114) measurements with a portable electrochemistry-based sensor. Chi-square and independent t-tests were used to compare categorical and continuous variables respectively. A mixed-effects model was used to analyze exposure determinants. Results: Endotoxin exposure had a geometric mean (GM) of 22.8 endotoxin units (EU)/m3 with a maximum of 180 EU/m3. Greenhouse workers had significantly higher endotoxin exposure than workers outside the greenhouses (GM= 26.7 vs. 19.3 EU/m3 respectively; p < 0.05). The mean age of the workers was 24 years, and their mean working time in the flower farm was 21 months. Greenhouse workers had higher prevalence of self-reported respiratory symptoms than those outside greenhouses. However, after adjusting for education only blocked nose remained significant. The FeNO concentration ranged 5–166 ppb (GM = 14 ppb). Two workers had FeNO concentration above 50 ppb. FeNO levels differs significantly between the farms but there was no difference between workers inside and outside greenhouses. Conclusion: Greenhouse workers at flower farms had higher prevalence of blocked nose than workers outside, which may indicate the presence of rhinitis. Endotoxin exposure was low. There were few workers with objective signs of airway inflammation; this might be because the mean working time in the greenhouses was only two years. We suggest further studies to evaluate the effect of longer employment and exposure time as well as to investigate possible exposure to pesticides and other components in the bio-aerosols. publishedVersion

OBJECTIVE: On the basis of the job demands-control-support model by Karasek and Theorell, we investigated how social and organizational factors influence workers' use of personal protective equipment (PPE). METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed among 1420 workers in 203 motor vehicle-repair garages. Multilevel modeling was performed to account for the hierarchical structure of the data. RESULTS: Social and management support correlated positively with PPE use at the worker level. Low demands measured at the garage level and having a health and safety management system at the garage also correlated with active use of PPE. An interaction effect between social support and garage-level demands was observed. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to health information and provision of PPE, focusing on social and organizational factors seems necessary to get more workers to comply with the instructions on PPE use. Language: en

We investigated cumulative total cement dust exposure and ventilatory function impairment at a Portland cement factory in Tanzania. All 126 production workers were exposed. The control group comprised all 88 maintenance workers and 32 randomly chosen office workers. Exposed workers had significantly lower forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV 1 ), peak expiratory flow rate (PEF), IEV 1 /FVC, FVC%, FEV1 % and PEF%, than controls adjusted for age, duration of employment, height, and pack-years. Cumulative total dust exposure was significantly associated with reduced FVC, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, and peak expiratory flow rate adjusted for age, height and pack-years. Cumulative total dust exposure more than 300 mg/m 3 year versus lower than 100 mg/m 3 years was significantly associated with increased risk of developing airflow limitation (odds ratio = 9.9). The current occupational exposure limit for total cement dust (10 mg/m 3 ) appears to be too high to prevent respiratory health effects among cement workers.

The objective of this study was to determine to what extent the substitution of solvent-based paint by water-based paint has reduced potential exposure to organic solvents for spray painters in car repair shops.Full-shift personal air sampling (n=79) was carried out over 3 consecutive days in eight car repair shops. Blood samples on the Monday morning (n=26) and at the end of the shift on the Wednesday (n=26), were analysed for organic solvents by headspace techniques.Toluene was the organic solvent detected at the highest geometric mean concentration in air samples when solvent-based paint systems were used (0.8 ppm), whereas xylene was found at the highest level when water-based systems were used (0.25 ppm). Toluene, isopropanol, acetone and butyl acetate were detected at higher concentrations when solvent-based paint was used than when water-based paint was employed. The additive factor, based on Norwegian limit values, was three-times higher for the painters using solvent-based paint (0.15) than for those using water-based paint (0.05). On Wednesday after shift the geometric mean of toluene in blood was significantly higher for the painters using solvent-based paint (0.044 microg/ml) than for the painters using water-based paint (0.007 microg/ml). There was a significant correlation between toluene in personal air samples and toluene in blood samples taken at the end of the shift on the same day.When solvent-based paint systems were used the additive factor for organic solvent exposure was three-times higher than when water-based systems were employed. The exposure levels of the organic solvents were well below the Norwegian limit values. The significant correlation between the toluene concentration in air and blood samples indicated that the uptake of organic solvents was correspondingly reduced. At the levels of organic solvents presently described the risk of acute and chronic health effects caused by organic solvents is low.