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The development of reliable and sensitive detection methods is essential for addressing the escalating concerns surrounding fish and fish products, driven by increasing market demands. This comprehensive review presents recent advances in detection approaches, specifically focusing on microplastic, biological, and chemical hazards associated with these products. The overview encompasses 21 distinct detection methods, categorized based on the type of hazard they target. For microplastic hazards, six methods are visual, spectroscopic, and thermal analyses. Biological hazard identification relies on six approaches employing nucleic-acid sequence, immunological, and biosensor technologies. The investigation of chemical hazards encompasses ten methods, including chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, immunological, biosensor, and electrochemical techniques. The review provides in-depth insights into the basic principles, general characteristics, and the recognized advantages and disadvantages of each method. Moreover, it elaborates on recent advancements within these methodologies. The concluding section of the review discusses current challenges and outlines future perspectives for these detection methods. Overall, this comprehensive summary not only serves as a guide for researchers involved in fish safety and quality control but also emphasizes the significance of staying abreast of evolving detection technologies to ensure the continued safety of fish and fish products in response to emerging food safety hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Egyptian consumers' demand and preference for sauces like mayonnaise have increased lately. The processing and packaging techniques of such products may safeguard the consumer from bacterial hazards, although mold and/or mycotoxins are still expected hazards in such products.Therefore, the current investigation is intended to determine the incidence of mold and aflatoxin B1 in commercial mayonnaise sold in Egyptian markets.A total of thirty mayonnaise samples were arbitrarily gathered from Cairo and Giza governorates in order to determine the presence of mold using cultivation techniques and AFB1 using a low-cost high-recovery fluorescence detector (FLD) in combination with an easy-to-use, highly specific and specially developed High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) assay that adhered to green chemistry principles.About 53.33% of the examined samples were positive for AFB1, while mold couldn’t be detected in any of the examined samples. It was also discovered that 43.33% of AFB1 in total samples was below the maximum permitted threshold. Therefore, more attention is required from the authorities for continuous examination of such products that are present in the market for the incidence of chemical contamination with aflatoxin.

Egyptian consumers' demand and preference for sauces like mayonnaise have increased lately. The processing and packaging techniques of such products may safeguard the consumer from bacterial hazards, although mold and/or mycotoxins are still expected hazards in such products. Therefore, the current investigation is intended to determine the incidence of mold and aflatoxin B1 in commercial mayonnaise sold in Egyptian markets. A total of thirty mayonnaise samples were arbitrarily gathered from Cairo and Giza governorates in order to determine the presence of mold using cultivation techniques and AFB1 using a low-cost highrecovery fluorescence detector (FLD) in combination with an easy-to-use, highly specific and specially developed High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) assay that adhered to green chemistry principles. About 53.33% of the examined samples were positive for AFB1, while mold couldn't be detected in any of the examined samples. It was also discovered that 43.33% of AFB1 in total samples was below the maximum permitted threshold. Therefore, more attention is required from the authorities for continuous examination of such products that are present in the market for the incidence of chemical contamination with aflatoxin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chloropropanols, their fatty acid esters, and glycidol and its fatty acid esters (GEs) are process contaminants in foods that pose potential health risks. These contaminants typically arise during the deodorization process of vegetable oils, particularly in high concentrations within oils like palm oil and products derived from them, such as margarine, baked goods, pastries, and infant formula. Chloropropanol esters and GE can hydrolyze under the influence of lipases, forming chloropropanols. Elevated temperatures during food production can lead to the release of free 3-chloro-1,2-propanediol (3-MCPD) or free 2-chloro-1,3-propanediol (2-MCPD) in products containing both fat and salt. The exposure to these contaminants, especially for infants and young children, raises concerns about potential health hazards. While extensive research has focused on 3-MCPD, 2-MCPD, and GE, knowledge regarding other chloropropanols such as 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol (1,3-DCP), 2,3-dichloro-1-propanol (2,3-DCP), and their fatty acid esters remains limited. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview encompassing formation mechanisms, analysis methods, toxicological implications, occurrence patterns, exposure levels, mitigation strategies, and legislative considerations concerning these contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ever-increasing development, discovery, production and application of chemicals have brought convenience and prosperity to humans, and chemicals are used in many industries for various tasks. On the other hand, the exposure of workers to harmful chemical agents in the industrial sector has caused increasing attention to the occupational health of workers. Considering that exposure to chemicals in the workplace has harmful effects on people's health, it is clear that the safety and health of child and adolescent workers are at greater risk and damage from harmful factors compared to adults. Therefore, the main question facing this article is what mechanisms exist to ensure the health of workers, especially children and teenagers in the workplace? In response to the aforementioned question, the authors concluded that policymakers and legislators by adopting an active approach to international capacities Such as taking advantage of the experience of other countries and international organizations in this field, they have developed policies and enacted related laws at the domestic level. In addition, they should provide the context for the accession and implementation of all relevant international conventions, especially the International Labor Organization conventions. And most importantly, follow their implementation through various mechanisms, especially continuous inspection of workshops to finally provide a suitable guarantee for working children and teenagers against injuries caused by harmful factors, especially pollutants and chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The main objectives of this article are to characterise chemical hazards and to identify the factors (circumstances) affecting the effectiveness of responses to them, the cooperation of rescue units and the local community. The article details the methods and principles of rescue operations undertaken when various hazards are present. Introduction: With the increasing chemicalisation of the economy, at the same time indispensable in people’s daily lives, the associated chemical and environmental risks are increasing. The article presents their typology based on the sources of potential incidents. The categorisation was narrowed down to hazards caused by industrial plants using chemicals and their mixtures and transport units transporting dangerous goods. The typology also includes references to selected organisational elements of rescue and firefighting operations affecting their effectiveness. Project and methods: W związku z realizacją celu pracy analizie poddana została literatura z zakresu badanego problemu, a także obowiązujące akty prawne dotyczące ochrony środowiska, przewozu materiałów niebezpiecznych oraz właściwości substancji chemicznych i ich mieszanin. W badaniach wykorzystano również sondaż diagnostyczny z ankietą, obserwację systemową oraz doświadczenie własne z bieżącej organizacji ćwiczeń WPOR, ZPOR w ZDR we współdziałaniu z PSP. W celu zgromadzenia danych wykorzystano materiały publikowane przez Komendę Główną Państwowej Straży Pożarnej. Dokonano analizy możliwych zdarzeń awaryjnych z udziałem czynników chemicznych stwarzających potencjalne zagrożenie dla życia ludzkiego, mienia oraz środowiska naturalnego. Methodology: The typology also includes references to selected organisational elements of rescue and firefighting operations affecting their effectiveness. The research also used a diagnostic survey with a questionnaire, system observation and own experience from the current organisation of WPOR, ZPOR exercises in ZDR in cooperation with PSP. Materials published by the Headquarters of the National Fire Service were used to collect the data. An analysis of possible emergency events involving chemical agents posing a potential threat to human life, property and the environment was carried out. Results: The essence of actions in the context of chemical rescue is to minimise the hazard, to establish the location of the source of the emission in a short time and to stop the releasing chemical substance. These elements are influenced by the even distribution of forces and resources across the country. Recognition of chemical emissions is also an important element, which will be facilitated by the participation of a representative of the engineering and technical team representing the plant. On the other hand, an important step in recognising the threat will be the implementation by SGRChem – in all provinces – of readiness level C on conducting imaging reconnaissance using advanced technical means. This is particularly the case in the provinces of the eastern part of Poland, where chemical groups mostly only implement A and B levels. Conclusions: Istotą działań w kontekście ratownictwa chemicznego jest ograniczanie do minimum zagrożenia, ustalenie w krótkim czasie lokalizacji źródła emisji oraz zatrzymanie uwalniającej się substancji chemicznej. Wpływ na te elementy ma równomierne w skali kraju rozmieszczenie sił i środków. Istotnym elementem jest także rozpoznanie emisji substancji chemicznej, które usprawni udział przedstawiciela zespołu inżynieryjno-technicznego reprezentującego dany zakład. Z kolei ważnym krokiem w rozpoznaniu zagrożenia będzie realizacja przez SGRChem – we wszystkich województwach – poziomu gotowości C dotyczącego prowadzenia rozpoznania obrazowego przy użyciu zaawansowanych środków technicznych. W szczególności dotyczy to województw wschodniej części Polski, w których grupy chemiczne w większości realizują wyłącznie poziomy A i B. Keywords: chemical hazard, hazardous substance, chemical rescue, high risk facility, high risk facility

The methodology for analyzing health risks caused by exposure to chemical pollutants in the environmental has been widely implemented; this creates some new priority challenges to be considered and tackled. The article identifies basic stages in the development of the methodology for assessing health risks caused by environmental pollution in the Russian Federation. Guides on risk analysis as well as some monographs published in Russia describe a strategic role that belongs to health risk analysis in providing sanitary-epidemiological wellbeing of the country population. We have analyzed modern trends in the development of the methodology for assessing public health risks caused by exposure to chemicals that pollute the environment. The article generalizes basic approaches recommended in foreign and Russian studies that are applied to increase quality of research in the field, to reduce uncertainties in calculations, as well as to find new ways of health risk quantification. The number of chemicals registered on the global scale over the last 65 years has been estimated. The article also provides generalized information on computerized and information systems (CIS) and databases (DB) that contain data on parameters of assessing health risks caused by various chemical exposures including leading world systems that allow assessing health harm caused by chemical exposure (calculation of an additional number of adverse health outcomes due to chemical exposure etc.). We have also summarized various reasons for underestimating public health risks and described several methodological approaches employed in research that make it possible to minimize underestimation of health hazards and reduce uncertainties of obtained results. The methodology for assessing health risks caused by harmful chemical pollutants in the environment is a complex systemic process. On the one hand, it involves the necessity to provide the maximum possible profound description of complexity of chemical environmental pollution; on the other hand, it should give a more comprehensive insight into possible nature and consequences of adverse effects produced by identified chemicals directly on the human body and indirectly on significant socioeconomic indicators of the society development. The aim of this study was to identify modern methodological approaches applied to assess public health risks due to chemical exposures and ways to reduce uncertainties of research results.

Chloropropanols, their fatty acid esters, and glycidol and its fatty acid esters (GEs) are process contaminants in foods that pose potential health risks. These contaminants typically arise during the deodorization process of vegetable oils, particularly in high concentrations within oils like palm oil and products derived from them, such as margarine, baked goods, pastries, and infant formula. Chloropropanol esters and GE can hydrolyze under the influence of lipases, forming chloropropanols. Elevated temperatures during food production can lead to the release of free 3-chloro-1,2-propanediol (3-MCPD) or free 2-chloro-1,3-propanediol (2-MCPD) in products containing both fat and salt. The exposure to these contaminants, especially for infants and young children, raises concerns about potential health hazards. While extensive research has focused on 3-MCPD, 2-MCPD, and GE, knowledge regarding other chloropropanols such as 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol (1,3-DCP), 2,3-dichloro-1-propanol (2,3-DCP), and their fatty acid esters remains limited. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview encompassing formation mechanisms, analysis methods, toxicological implications, occurrence patterns, exposure levels, mitigation strategies, and legislative considerations concerning these contaminants.

Temperature-dependent chemical toxicity has become a crucial issue taking into consideration that lakes, especially shallow waterbodies, are impacted by climate change worldwide. In this study, we are looking for an answer to what extent standard ecotoxicity assays being performed under constant and relatively low temperatures are capable of predicting the chemical risk posed by pesticides. Lemna minor test plants were exposed to glyphosate in concentrations in the range of 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 μg/L at temperatures 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 °C. Two peaks appeared when growth inhibition was assessed; lower concentrations elucidated higher inhibition, at 20 °C, while higher concentrations were found at a higher temperature of 30 °C. The toxic effect experienced at 20 °C indicates that reported PNEC values cannot be sufficient to protect non-target aquatic species in certain environmental scenarios. In addition to growth inhibition, phytotoxicity was also assessed based on peroxidase (POD) concentrations. In general, POD showed greater sensitivity, already showing a response at the lowest temperature tested, 10 °C. Decreased POD activity was detected in the temperature range of 10–30 °C, most probably indicating damage to cell and plasma membranes.

Temperature-dependent chemical toxicity has become a crucial issue taking into consideration that lakes, especially shallow waterbodies, are impacted by climate change worldwide. In this study, we are looking for an answer to what extent standard ecotoxicity assays being performed under constant and relatively low temperatures are capable of predicting the chemical risk posed by pesticides. Lemna minor test plants were exposed to glyphosate in concentrations in the range of 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 μg/L at temperatures 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 °C. Two peaks appeared when growth inhibition was assessed; lower concentrations elucidated higher inhibition, at 20 °C, while higher concentrations were found at a higher temperature of 30 °C. The toxic effect experienced at 20 °C indicates that reported PNEC values cannot be sufficient to protect non-target aquatic species in certain environmental scenarios. In addition to growth inhibition, phytotoxicity was also assessed based on peroxidase (POD) concentrations. In general, POD showed greater sensitivity, already showing a response at the lowest temperature tested, 10 °C. Decreased POD activity was detected in the temperature range of 10–30 °C, most probably indicating damage to cell and plasma membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food production has increasingly become effective but not necessarily sustainable. Transitioning toward circular production systems aiming to minimize waste and reuse materials is one of the means to obtain a more sustainable food production system. However, such a circular food production system can also lead to the accumulation and recirculation of chemical hazards. A literature review was performed to identify potential chemical hazards related to the use of edible and non-edible resources in agriculture and horticulture, and edible plant and animal by-products in feed production. The review revealed that limited information was available on the chemical hazards that could occur when reusing crop residues in circular agriculture. Frequently mentioned hazards present in edible and non-edible resources are heavy metals, process and environmental contaminants, pesticides and pharmaceuticals. For feed, natural toxins and pharmaceutical residues are of potential concern. Studies, furthermore, indicated that plants are capable of taking up chemical hazards when grown on contaminated soil. The presence of chemical hazards in manure, sewage sludge, crop residues, and animal by-products may lead to accumulation in a circular food production system. Therefore, it is relevant to identify these hazards prior to application in food production and, if needed, take precautionary measures to prevent food safety risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dust is one of the chemical substances that cause occupational disease, especially among stone crafters. Its deposition for a long period can lead to various health problems, hence, there is a need for early detection. Therefore, this study aims to assess the occurrence of lung function disorder in headstone and stone mortar crafters. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used and the sample population consists of all headstone and stone mortar crafters in Allakuang Village, Sidrap Regency, Indonesia. They were selected using a purposive sampling method, and 33 out of 148 people met the criteria. Subsequently, their lung function was measured once using spirometry as well as FVC and FEV1 parameters. The data obtained were then analyzed using Chi-Square. Results: 18 of 33 respondents with lung function disorders. They had a long tenure, a normal working time, bad exercise habits, as well as a normal and overweight nutritional status based on their BMI category. The statistical test results showed that tenure, working time, and exercise habits had an effect on the disease condition with p=0.000. Meanwhile, other factors, such as age and nutritional status had no effect with p-values of 0.981 and 0.14, respectively. Conclusion: Based on the results, the majority of headstone and stone mortar crafters have lung function disorders, and the influential factors include tenure, working time, and exercise habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Safety & Fire Technology (2657-8808) is the property of Centrum Naukowo-Badawcze Ochrony Przeciwpozarowej and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective To overcome the subjective limitations and uncertainty of results in the traditional judgment on key areas of chemical hazard monitoring and to improve the scientific selection of important areas of chemical hazard monitoring. Methods Based on the statistical analysis of the factors affecting the importance of chemical hazard monitoring, a scientific quantitative model was constructed to rank the importance of chemical hazard monitoring areas. The index weights of subjective and objective weighting methods were compared by Spearman rank correlation coefficient analysis, and three ranking methods were judged comprehensively by Kendall correlation analysis. In this paper, a spearman -based combined AHP, EWM, and FAHP assignment method (S-AEF) and a Kendall-based W, TOPSIS, and VIKOR integrated ranking method (K -WTV) were proposed to rank the importance of chemical hazard monitoring areas. Results As an example, taking a certain area of a large city as a chemical hazard monitoring area, the similarity between the results calculated by S -AEF combined with the K -WTV method and multiplicative synthesis method, the optimal weighting method, and the game theory weighting method was 0.659, 0.913, and 0.659, respectively, which were larger than the critical value and basically consistent with the judgment of practical experience, which demonstrated the feasibility of this method. Conclusions The proposed method was objective, feasible, applicable, and scientifically reasonable. It can provide a new idea for solving uncertain problems, such as the ranking of the importance of chemical hazard monitoring areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to investigate the levels of N ε -carboxymethyllysine (CML) and N ε -carboxyethyllysine (CEL) in precooked pork (100 °C, 10 min) as affected by storage (0 °C, 0–11 d) and subsequent reheating (100 °C, 5 min). A longer storage duration led to more CML (average increased: 69–128 %) and CEL (average increased: 11–44 %) in precooked pork, while the reheating resulted in average increases of 86 % CML and 32 % CEL compared to their initial levels in precooked pork. However, the storage duration did not significantly (p > 0.05) affect CML/CEL formation in precooked pork during the subsequent reheating. The levels of CML/CEL and glyoxal/methylglyoxal had no obvious relationship, but CML formation was linked to lipid oxidation in precooked or reheated pork. The accumulation of CML and CEL in precooked meat produced during the initial precooking, storage, and reheating implies the necessity to control their generation in these products. • Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) in precooked pork increased during storage. • Storage time of precooked pork didn't affect AGE formation during later reheating. • AGEs formed during precooking, storage and reheating were accumulative. • Reheated pork could contain 230 % more N ε -carboxymethyllysine than precooked pork. • The levels of AGEs and their α-dicarbonyl precursors had no obvious relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of the research is to improve the efficiency of management decisions in the field of environmental protection through using the methods for assessing the public health risk at the current level of air pollution. Methodology. The article presents a hierarchical methodological approach for determination of the level of air pollution hazard at the state, regional and local levels. The state of atmospheric air is greatly affected by emergencies associated with accidents at chemically hazardous facilities, which result in burst releases of hazardous chemicals into the environment. When determining the environmental risk of deterioration in the state of atmospheric air, the chemical hazard indicator was taken into account. Results. On the territory of the East of Ukraine there is the largest number of potentially dangerous enterprises. A new methodology of determination of the hazard level of air pollution is presented at the existing trends of anthropogenic load and the possible occurrence of technogenic emergencies. Assessment of public health risk due to air pollution in the Mariupol city showed an extremely high level of danger. The determination of the risk as a macroecological indicator according to the new method shows a high level of hazard of air pollution in the industrial developed regions of Ukraine. The shortcomings of the methodical approach of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA US), widely used in many countries of the world, are shown. An analysis of methodological approaches to assessing the public health risk has shown the promise of using the methodology for assessing potential risk in determining the level of environmental hazard of industrial enterprises. The assessment of the public health risk in the current quality state of air is given by two different methods for the regions of Ukraine with a high level of ecological and chemical hazard. The improvement of the methodology for assessing the risk to public health due to air pollution is proposed, which is presented as a scientific novelty. Currently when Ukraine has been affected by hostilities and the economic crisis, the issue of priority funding for environmental protection is very important. The implementation of the proposed methodological approach will make it possible to scientifically determine regions with an increased level of hazard to public health and minimize financial resources for improving the air quality, which has actual practical significance.

Copyright of TECHNO Review is the property of Eurasia Academic Publishing Group and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The production and use of chemicals are continuously increasing worldwide. For example, the global output of chemicals increased approximately 12 times between 1970 and 2020. The burden of disease attributable to exposure to chemicals is significant. World Health Organization estimates that globally, about 5 million deaths and 90 million disability - adjusted life years are attributable to occupational, environmental exposure and management. Public authorities and employers need access to reliable information on chemicals and practical, widely-accepted risk assessment methods in order to effectively control and minimize this threat. To support the management of chemical substances in small and mediumsized enterprises, the UK Health and Safety Executive developed the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Essentials (COSHH Essentials), a control banding technique that determines the management method by assigning the qualitative work environment characteristics of the enterprises to a hazard and exposure prediction band. Qualitative tools were used for assessing the risk of these chemicals, creating solutions, and implementing control measures in various industrial fields. The present paper synthesizes the results of an extensive research study, dedicated to the evaluation of chemical risks within a Romanian company which has as object of activity the mechanical processing of steel laminates and their treatment by methods of electrochemical deposition of hard chromium / electrochemical nickel plating. The application of the simplified health, safety and environmental risk assessment methodology developed by the French National Security Research Institute (INRS) was considered to be the most appropriate in the preliminary phase of identifying and prioritizing the risks associated with chemicals used in technological processes in selected company. Based on the obtained results, the prevention and protection plan regarding the chemical risks was elaborated, the implementation of which led to the reduction of the workers' exposure and to the minimization of the probability and severity of the potential consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lanzhou Lily(Lilium davidii) var. unicolor, which is also known as sweet lily in China, is used as a type of food. This lily is distributed in narrow regions, propagates asexually, cultivates perennially, and cultivates commonly in serious consecutive replant problems (CRPs). Soil fumigation is commonly used to control soil-borne disease to alleviate crops' consecutive replant problems (CRPs). However, due to the improper fumigation application, it is common to cause chemical hazard to crops. In this study, we designed a two-factor experiment to explore the bacterial and fungal community structure and some specific microbial groups in the lily rhizosphere soil after chemical versus bacterial fertilizer treatments, by using a metagenomic analysis of the treated soils. The results showed that metham-sodium soil fumigation (SMF treatment) significantly decreased plant growth, as well as it significantly decreased both soil fungal diversity and abundance at the OTUs levels, while Special 8™ microbial fertilizer supplement (MF treatment) significantly improved plant growth and increased fungal diversity and abundance. Under FM treatment, Chao1 richness and Shannon's diversity increased by 6.70% and 35.09% compared to CK (no treatment). However, the bacterial diversity and abundance were not significantly changed among these treatments. The fungal and bacterial community structure were different in all treatments. In SMF treatment, the pathogenic fungal species Fusarium oxysporum increased compared to CK, but it significantly decreased in MF treatment; in MF and MMF treatments, some beneficial bacteria groups such as the bacterial phylum Proteobacteria and its member genus Sphingomonas, as well as the fungal genus Mortierella, increased compared to CK and SFM treatments, but the harmful bacterial genera Gemmatimona was decreased, as well as the harmful fungal genus Cryptococcus. Thus, we concluded that under chemical fumigation conditions, both fungal diversity loss and overall microorganism reduction, which impair multiple ecosystem function, in conjunction with the increase of harmful fungal species such as Fusarium oxysporum, are causes for soil degradation. On the other hand, under microbial fertilizer supplement, it was the fungal diversity increase, as well as these beneficial microorganisms groups' accumulation, together with those harmful groups' depletion, played important roles in restoring and improving soil health that suffered from the chemical fumigant hazard. In addition, the bacterial phylum Proteobacteria and its member genus Sphingomonas are involved in soil health recovery and promotion. The results also emphasized that whether soil is chemically fumigated or not, beneficial microorganism supplementary is effective in ensuring soil productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study the HACCP system was applied on of halawa tahinia production from sesame in El-Rashidi Confectionery Factories Development Company (El-asly). The system was in terms of the Codex, where the HACCP team was formed a flow map for the industry was developed, and through a decision making tree, points were identified critical control ponts(CCP) of the stages of the industry that go through the following steps (receipt to packaginy). The critical points were as follows (the stage of roasting sesame, the stage of softening the tahini, the vacuum stage and the metal detector stage). The risks were identified at each point and it was the most important chemical hazards such as (pesticide residues and heavy metals) as well as microbiological risks such as total aerobic bacterial count, yeasts and molds, E.coli, Bacillus, Salmonella and Clostridium. The results estimated of pesticide residues were >0.01 mg/kg, heavy metals (lead 0.05 mg/kg, arsenic negative.and copper0.088 mg/kg) and the results of microbiological salmonella were negative E. coli <10 cells/gm and Staphylococcus aureus <10 cells/gm. The data demonstrated that applying HACCP system will improve the quality of the final product halawa tahinia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater ecosystems provide many benefits to people (ecosystem services), but their biodiversity and functioning is threatened by anthropogenic stressors, including chemical pollution. Environmental quality standards (EQSs) for chemicals, are designed to protect species, but their derivation takes no account of ecosystem processes or species interactions and hence their links to biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and ecosystem services are uncertain. Here we explore a novel approach for the derivation of chemical EQSs to protect ecosystem service providing units (i.e., assemblages of species with ecological traits that underpin an ecosystem service) and ultimately protect ecosystem service delivery in different freshwater bodies and river basins. This approach, which was illustrated for two Water Framework Directive priority chemicals (a pyrethroid insecticide and polybrominated diphenyl ethers), is the first application of an ecosystem services framework to derive EQS values. The four-step approach enabled the derivation of ecosystem service-specific and river basin-specific standards that can inform spatially-defined and targeted management of chemical impacts on the aquatic (freshwater) environment. The derivation of ecosystem service specific EQS values also helps in communicating and highlighting the incremental benefits of improving water quality. A Tier I assessment focusing on protecting ecosystem service providing units was successfully undertaken based on available ecotoxicological effects data for each chemical. However, Tier II and Tier III assessments require further scientific research and tool development to quantify chemical impacts on ecosystem services delivery based on service providing taxa and their functional traits.

Microplastics (MPs) are increasing in the marine environment as well as inside marine organisms, having an important effect on biological diversity. The trophic transfer of MPs was demonstrated under laboratory conditions, but this study is based on the analysis of preys found in stomach contents. MPs from Merluccius merluccius individuals caught in the Cantabrian Sea and preys inside their guts (blue whiting, and northern krill inside blue whiting) were analyzed. MPs with different chemical composition occurred inside every hake and their preys, with different damages, from aquatic life hazards with long lasting effects, to allergic skin reactions and respiratory irritation, not only for aquatic species and fishing resources, but also for humans through hake consumption. The similarity of MPs profiles from gills and seawater samples would support seawater as the main source of gill microplastics. The MPs profile of hake GIT was similar to that of hake preys inside. Despite the small sample size, the presence of MPs in all the tissues analyzed of hakes and their preys, together with the evidence of hazard compositions of some of them, highlights the need for policies and actions to reduce plastic and microplastic production and consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dezful is the capital of Dezful County, a city in Khuzestan Province, Iran. On August 12, 2017, after a chlorine gas leakage in Dezful, more than 475 people were affected by chlorine gas, and they all suffered from respiratory complications. A lot of problems were encountered in the preparation of the relief forces and organization of the blueprint on how to respond to the incident, such as lack of knowledge on establishment of danger zone, lack of warning system, lack of proper triage and absence of decontamination plans, lack of special chemical safety outfit and respiratory equipment for rescuers, lack of instructions for proper handling, lack of knowledge in dealing with this type of disaster, and inappropriate evacuation skills and failure to cordon off and insure the location of the incident. Although the initial measures to arrest this crisis was performed based on the health system's instructions of the country with regard to all the possible risks, lack of a comprehensive inter-organizational program and prevention plans, lack of control plans, lack of adequate preparation and response to chemical poisoning, lack of foresight, lack of a risk plan, and lack of an intervention plan for these incidents were the reasons for the damages and problems encountered after the crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Natural toxins, mainly small molecules, are a category of chemical hazards in agri-food systems that pose threats to both public health and food security. Current standard methods for monitoring these toxins, predominantly based on liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, are costly, labor-intensive, and complex. This study presents the development of a novel microfluidic optical aptasensor for rapid detection of small molecules based on analyte-tuned growth of gold nanoseeds combined with machine learning-enhanced spectrum analysis. We discovered and optimized a previously unreported growth pattern of aptamer-coated nanoparticles in the presence of different concentrations of analyte, enabling the detection of a major mycotoxin in food. The entire analysis was miniaturized on a customized microfluidic platform, allowing for automated spectral acquisition with precise liquid manipulation. A machine learning model, based on random forest with feature engineering, was developed and evaluated for spectrum analysis, significantly enhancing the prediction of mycotoxin concentrations. This approach extended the detection limit determined by the conventional method (∼72 ppb with high variation) to a wider range of 10 ppb to 100 ppm with high accuracy (overall mean absolute percentage error of 5.7%). The developed analytical tool provides a promising solution for detecting small molecules and monitoring chemical hazards in agri-food systems and the environment.

The main purpose of the research is to improve the efficiency of management decisions in the field of environmental protection through using the methods for assessing the public health risk at the current level of air pollution. Methodology. The article presents a hierarchical methodological approach for determination of the level of air pollution hazard at the state, regional and local levels. The state of atmospheric air is greatly affected by emergencies associated with accidents at chemically hazardous facilities, which result in burst releases of hazardous chemicals into the environment. When determining the environmental risk of deterioration in the state of atmospheric air, the chemical hazard indicator was taken into account. Results. On the territory of the East of Ukraine there is the largest number of potentially dangerous enterprises. A new methodology of determination of the hazard level of air pollution is presented at the existing trends of anthropogenic load and the possible occurrence of technogenic emergencies. Assessment of public health risk due to air pollution in the Mariupol city showed an extremely high level of danger. The determination of the risk as a macroecological indicator according to the new method shows a high level of hazard of air pollution in the industrial developed regions of Ukraine. The shortcomings of the methodical approach of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA US), widely used in many countries of the world, are shown. An analysis of methodological approaches to assessing the public health risk has shown the promise of using the methodology for assessing potential risk in determining the level of environmental hazard of industrial enterprises. The assessment of the public health risk in the current quality state of air is given by two different methods for the regions of Ukraine with a high level of ecological and chemical hazard. The improvement of the methodology for assessing the risk to public health due to air pollution is proposed, which is presented as a scientific novelty. Currently when Ukraine has been affected by hostilities and the economic crisis, the issue of priority funding for environmental protection is very important. The implementation of the proposed methodological approach will make it possible to scientifically determine regions with an increased level of hazard to public health and minimize financial resources for improving the air quality, which has actual practical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the advantages of CFD technology in the simulation of small and medium-scale chemical hazard diffusion, one near-field prediction model of chemical hazard diffusion named CHDNFP is constructed based on CFD technology, and the accuracy and efficiency of the model are improved by improved differential evolution algorithm (DEA) and fireworks algorithm (FWA). Firstly, based on the component conservation equation, momentum conservation equation, and turbulence control equation, CHDNFP model is constructed, whose basic solution process is proposed from three aspects: non-uniform mesh refinement in diffusion space, model discretization, and iterative solution of control equation. Secondly, comprehensive considering the global search ability, local search ability, and convergence characteristics of integrated DEA and FWA, a hybrid optimization algorithm IDEFWA is designed, which is suitable for predictive model solving. Finally, the CHDNFP model and IDEFWA are verified by tracer experiments. The result shows that: IDEFWA can reduce the relative root mean square error between the predicted concentration field and the observed concentration field to about 25%, with the calculation accuracy of 10–19 and the standard deviation accuracy of 10–9; compared with ABCA and GA, IDEFWA can get more accurate solutions faster under the same algebraic and population conditions; the calculation accuracy of CHDNFP–IDEFWA and PISOFOAM is almost the same, where the relative difference is about 3%, and CHDNFP–IDEFWA has better calculation accuracy than PISOFOAM, which is improved by about 26.05%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hazards that result from inappropriate exception‐handling tasks and processes performed in response to abnormal process conditions are not easily identified or cannot be identified at all, using only traditional hazard identification methods, such as normal hazard and operability (HAZOP) studies, failure mode and effects analysis, what‐if analysis, procedural HAZOP, and job safety analysis. This study thus proposes an efficient chemical hazard‐based method for identifying such potential hazards. The method comprises a checklist for identifying intrinsic chemical hazards and the exception tasks and processes which may initiate such hazards and a worksheet for performing the chemical hazard assessment of the identified exception tasks and processes. The checklist provides management with a useful tool for identifying the exception tasks and processes which may result in chemical hazards. Meanwhile, the hazard assessment worksheet provides an effective tool for evaluating the potential chemical hazards of the identified exception‐handling tasks and processes, assessing the effectiveness of existing safeguards for preventing and reducing such hazards, and drawing up additional recommendations if required. The operation of the proposed method is demonstrated through two case studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Work in the wood industry is often associated with exposure to wood dust and formaldehyde. The aims of this study were to describe the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) concerning chemical health hazards among particleboard workers and to compare the KAP among temporary and permanent workers. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used to collect data by structured questionnaires in two particleboard factories in Ethiopia. A total of 159 workers and 13 management personnel participated in this study. Both closed-ended and open-ended questions were included in the interviews. Chi-square tests, T tests and correlation analyses were used for categorical and continuous data. Total knowledge score (range 0–8) was calculated as the sum score of 8 items weighing one point each. Multiple linear regression was applied to estimate the impact of employment status on total knowledge score adjusted for level of education. Content analysis was applied to analyse collected data from open-ended questions. Results The mean age of the respondents was 28 (SD = 6) years and on average they had 3.7 [3] years of service. The permanent workers were older than the temporary workers (29 vs 26 years, p = 0.001), and a considerably high fraction of the permanent workers had vocational education (90%) compared to the temporary workers (11%). Permanent workers had higher proportion of response on knowledge of 10 of 12 topics regarding chemical hazards and attitudes on 6 of 11 of these topics than temporary workers. Permanent workers had higher knowledge scores (3.7) compared to temporary workers (1.3) (p

Background Formaldehyde and xylene are two hazardous chemicals widely used in pathology laboratories all over the world. The aim of this work was to survey a large volume pathology lab, measuring exposure of workers and residents to formaldehyde and xylene, and verify the efficacy of the undertaken preventive actions and the accomplishment with occupational limit values. Methods Environmental, personal, and biological monitoring of exposure to formaldehyde and xylene in different lab rooms and in 29 lab attendants was repeated yearly from 2017 to 2020. Continuous monitoring of airborne formaldehyde was performed to evaluate the pattern of airborne concentrations while specific tasks were performed. Several risk management and mitigation measures, including setting a new grossing room, reducing the number of samples to be soaked in formaldehyde, and improving the lab practices and equipment, such as the use of chemical hoods, were undertaken after each monitoring campaign, based on the results obtained from the exposure monitoring. Results Significant exposures to formaldehyde in pathologists and residents, especially during the grossing of samples, were observed in the first 2 years, with exposure exceeding the occupational exposure limit value; the following surveys showed that the risk management and mitigation measures were effective in reducing airborne concentrations and personal exposure. Xylene, assessed with both environmental and biological monitoring, was always well below the occupational exposure limit value and biological limit values, respectively. Conclusion Critical exposure to air formaldehyde in attendants of a pathology laboratory could be reduced with the re-organization of lab spaces, new and improved work procedures, and awareness and training initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic peroxide (OP) has been applied in the industry for at least 40 years. Driven by significant investments in today's high-profile energy, petrochemical, and polymer industries, the market and applications of OPs are expanding rapidly. However, the self-reactive nature has led to continuous research work on this topic. Nevertheless, tremendous progress has been made in hazard analysis, which has improved existing protocols or led to the discovery of new safety methods. OPs still cause related chemical hazards, and the limitations related to process hazards remain to be resolved. There is a lack of comprehensive systematic analysis of the process hazards of a wide variety of OPs. Different OPs, namely BPO, LPO, and the emerging OP, HTP-65W, were selected for investigation with several calorimetry techniques based on thermokinetic and heat transfer models. Determination methods have a crucial role in an operator for obtaining a systematic understanding of hazard properties under different process conditions, which is related to avoiding the occurrence of process disasters. For example, LPO has a shorter TMRad and TCL (< 1 min) than BPO and HTP-65W, indicating that LPO can be classified as an obvious hazardous material. Moreover, SADT < 25 °C can be used for evaluating LPO's cooling system efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The establishment of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) is one of the global initiatives to promote effective chemical hazard communication worldwide. Ultimately, the GHS aims to enhance safe use of chemicals, as well as to facilitate chemical trading across national borders. Countries that are now adopting GHS into their respective national legislations include the EU, US, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Malaysia. Nonetheless, challenges exist that might impede GHS implementation worldwide. These challenges have been identified and are discussed in this paper, namely, (i) adoption of different versions of the GHS document, (ii) adoption of building blocks, (iii) list of classified chemicals, (iv) different chemical mixture classification throughout the supply chain, and (v) the definition of GHS implementation. The challenges discussed in this paper are not to discourage countries from implementing GHS but, rather, to serve as input for the relevant entities to further strengthen GHS implementation worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Chemicals were used in various fields by the development of industry and science and technology. The Chemical Hazard Risk Management (CHARM) was developed to assess the risk of chemicals in South Korea. In this study, we were to evaluate the CHARM model developed for the effective management of workplace chemicals. Material and Methods We used 59 carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic (CMR) materials, which are both the work environment measurement result and the usage information among the manufacturer data. The CHARM model determines the risk to human health using the exposure level (based on working environment measurements or a combination of the quantity used and chemical physical properties (e.g., fugacity and volatility)), hazard (using occupational exposure limit (OEL) or Risk phrases (R-phrases)/Hazard statements (H-statements) from the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)). Results The risk level was lower when using the results of the work environment measurement than when applying the chemical quantity and physical properties in the exposure level evaluation method. It was evaluated as grade 4 for the CMR material in the hazard class determination. The risk assessment method by R-phrases was evaluated more conservatively than the risk assessment method by OEL. And the risk assessment method by H-statements was evaluated more conservatively than the risk assessment method by R-phrases. Conclusions The CHARM model was gradually conservatively assessed as it proceeded in the next step without quantitative information for individual workplaces. The CHARM is expected to help identify the risk if the hazards and exposure levels of chemicals were identified in individual workplaces. For CMR substances, although CHARM is highly evaluated for hazards, the risk is assessed to be low if exposure levels are assessed low. When evaluating the risk of highly hazardous chemicals such as CMR substances, we believe the model should be adapted to be more conservative and classify these as higher risk. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2018;31(4):491–501

The aim of this study was to develop a comparative risk assessment method to prioritise the public health risks posed by chemical hazards in food. Through a literature review, and in light of expert opinions, a bottom-up, semi-quantitative scoring method was applied to screen the ranking metrics and assign a score. In addition, a metrics system and a ranking model were constructed. The fuzzy comprehensive analysis model was used to assess typical chemical hazards in a specific food, as well as to rank risks in many foods. Data were collected from the National Food Surveillance System in China, the Food Consumption of Chinese Residents Database, government reports, public websites and databases of authoritative organisations. The comparative risk assessment method was applied to case studies on ranking chemical hazards in different kinds of food. According to application testing, the method truly reflects the overall risk and ranking of chemical hazards in food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Chemical accidents cause significant danger for residents living close to chemical facilities. For this reason, this study assessed the impacts of a simulated chemical accident on surrounding residents in the city of Ray, Iran. Methods: In this scenario-based case study in 2015, the Areal Location of Hazardous Atmospheres (ALOHA) model was applied to simulate a toxic chemical release from a chlorine warehouse in Shourabad, Ray, Iran. The population of the area was calculated based on the latest census in Iran, 2011. The atmospheric variables included were wind speed, air temperature, and relative humidity. We also included data on pollution source such as diameter, length and volume, and condition of chemicals. The simulation was repeated for each seasonal period. The simulated threat zones were mapped using Geographical Information System. The percentage of residents sustaining injuries and death was calculated using probit. Results: The maximum and minimum simulated threat zones by chlorine release are during summer and winter at 8.8 and 6.4 kilometers respectively. The total affected population was estimated at approximately 30,000 people. The greater percent of injuries and death was estimated to occur in the winter and autumn, compared to summer and spring, because of greater climatic instability. The number of individuals affected by chlorine release in the spring, summer, autumn and winter at 8.3, 8.8, 7.6 and 6.4 kilometers, are estimated at 22,500, 25,000, 28,100 and 27,500, respectively. Populations located in hot and warm zones of toxic chemical releases should have access to medical resources. Conclusions: The results showed that relevant factors impact human vulnerability, and these should be examined to mitigate the harmful consequences of chemical accidents. Establishing a multi-level Emergency Response Program is also recommended in the area under study

Abstract Fresh produce can become contaminated with disease‐causing microorganisms and chemical contaminants at every step of the production and processing chain and in a variety of ways, including through contact with contaminated process water. Water quality is critical to prevent microbial and chemical risks in any of the postharvest and processing operations related to fresh and fresh‐cut fruits and vegetables. The wash process requires high volumes of water, which are usually reduced by water reuse. To maintain the microbiological quality of the process water, intervention strategies are needed. Chemical disinfection is the most common method to maintain the microbial quality of process water. However, the use of chemicals leads to the formation/accumulation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs), which can be absorbed by the washed vegetables. This is the case of trihalomethanes (THMs) and chlorates. The presence of high concentrations of DBPs in vegetables has led to an intensive debate on current disinfection practices and how DBPs may enter the food supply chain, becoming a potential health risk for consumers. To assess the risk associated with the formation/accumulation of DBPs in process water, a quantitative analysis was done. Available data have been used to develop mathematical models to predict the formation/accumulation of DBPs (chlorates and THMs) in process water due to the use of chlorine‐derived compounds. Preliminary models have been developed, but adjustments are still needed to refine them. The present study contributes more information related to the development of a mathematical model for the accumulation of chlorates and THMs in process water.

Process Safety Information (PSI) provides the fundamental information necessary for developing the elements of Process Safety Management (PSM). We report the PSI management deficiencies found in PSM audits of more than 70 plants. It should be noted that the PSM audits were not limited to OSHA requirements. The deficiencies found were frequently encountered in the management of the PSI element. The chemical hazards information provided on the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are not sufficient and may not be appropriate for the process condition used; therefore, the chemical hazards information should not be limited to only the SDS. Although the information provided by the SDS satisfies the OSHA requirements, it is suggested that management further develop the chemical hazards information necessary to ensure the safety of the process. Process incidents resulting from undesired reactions are more frequent than from the desired reaction. Therefore, in terms of safety, the process chemistry of the undesired reactions is essential information for the process technology. However, such undesirable reactions are not identified, and their process chemistries are lacking for most processes. The frequently encountered problem for the information of the process equipment is the inconsistency between the piping and instrument diagram and the actual process. Summarily, the necessary information of the PSI should be developed based upon the characteristics of the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field Investigations were carried out on traditional processing of fresh fish into smoked fish (SF) and smoked-dried fish (SDF) in southern regions of Benin. A total of 429 stakeholders were interviewed, and data were analysed using Sphinx survey plus2. Factorial Correspondence Analyses were performed with SPSS v16 to reveal both links between fish species, processing methods, and their distribution according to surveyed areas, and links between types of kilns and fuels used, and socio-cultural groups of processors. The results showed that SF and SDF were essentially produced by women (100%), and 32 species of fish were used for SF and SDF production. The smoking kilns used by processors were barrel kiln (67.7%), traditional kiln in clay (31.5%) and Chorkor (5.6%). The direct functioning mode of smoking kilns associated with the use of wood, plastic bags and kerosene as fuels could lead to the contamination of end-products by toxic molecules. Likewise, unsuitable preservation practices including the use of insecticide to prevent harmful insect invasion could not ensure the safety of stored products. Therefore, it would be needful to upgrade both smoking kilns and preservation practices to ensure the safety of processed fish.