13 26 30 38

SPECIAL SECTION FEATURE FEATURE BY THE NUMBERS

AIHA Candidates’ Remote Industrial Dust Hazard Wildfire
Forum Hygiene Analysis Consequences

February 2020

Preventing Exposures
to Potentially
BLOODBORNE Infectious Materials
Across Industries
PATHOGENS
Outside of Healthcare Settings

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 FEBRUARY 2020

FEATURES
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS OUTSIDE OF HEALTHCARE SETTINGS
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ACROSS INDUSTRIES
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| February 2020 4
 FEBRUARY 2020

Volume 31 Number 2

EDITOR IN CHIEF
Ed Rutkowski: erutkowski@aiha.org

COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS SENIOR EDITOR

Kay Bechtold: kbechtold@aiha.org

8 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 16 NEWSWATCH DESIGNER

Janelle Welch, 2 Hounds Media
Taking AIHce EXP to the Next Level OEHS and Industry News
BY KATHLEEN S. MURPHY PRODUCTION MANAGER
21 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Jim Myers: jmyers@aiha.org
10 INDOOR AIR QUALITY
IAQ-Related Comfort Complaints 35 PRODUCT FEATURES ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
MCI | USA
BY D. JEFF BURTON
Holly Klarman: holly.klarman@mci-group.com
36 COMMUNITY
13 SPECIAL SECTION AIHA News CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
AIHA Candidates’ Forum Lawrence D. Sloan, CAE: lsloan@aiha.org
38 BY THE NUMBERS
Wildfire Consequences
The Synergist® is a copyrighted publication of the American Industrial
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June/July issue by the American Industrial Hygiene Association, 3141
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EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS

Jeff Behar, California Institute of Technology
Patricia Crawford, Consultant
COMING IN MARCH: M. Cathy Fehrenbacher, U.S. EPA
Integrating Sensors in Personal Protective Equipment | Electrical Safety in Hazardous Environments | Don Garvey, 3M Co.
Surveillance for Anti-Cancer Drugs Exposure Study: Lessons Learned Stephen Hemperly, Hitachi GST
Hank Muranko, Muranko & Associates
Derek Popp, Wisconsin Occupational Health Laboratory
The Synergist’s mission is to provide AIHA members with news and information about
Doris Reid, Goodrich Corporation
the occupational and environmental health and safety fields and the industrial hygiene John Rekus, John F. Rekus & Associates Ltd.
profession. The Synergist focuses on industry trends and news, government and regulatory
activities, key issues facing the profession, appropriate technical information and news on
association events and activities.
The Synergist’s objective is to present information that is newsworthy and of general
interest in industrial hygiene. Opinions, claims, conclusions, and positions expressed in this
publication are the authors’ or persons’ quoted and do not necessarily reflect the opinions
of the editors, AIHA, or The Synergist.

| February 2020 6
 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Opening Session
Taking AIHce EXP Leadership Under
KATHLEEN S. MURPHY, CIH,
is AIHA president and director of Global
to the Next Level Pressure
Regulatory Affairs at Sherwin Williams in
Cleveland, Ohio. She can be reached at BY KATHLEEN S. MURPHY, AIHA PRESIDENT
Keynote address by Dr. Sudip Bose
kathleen.murphy@sherwin.com.

Send feedback to synergist@aiha.org.

A
As a battalion surgeon during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Dr. Bose’s
s the premier association of industrial hygiene professionals rooms and assumed they will find, service earned him the Bronze Star for the distinction of complet-
in North America, AIHA needs to stay on the cutting edge of introduce themselves to, and have ing one of the longest combat tours by a physician since World War
professional advancement for our members. And, according- meaningful conversations with like- II. He is also the U.S. physician who treated Saddam Hussein after
ly, as the IH profession has evolved, so too must our annual minded professionals. For extroverts, U.S. forces captured him from the spider hole.
conference, AIHce EXP. AIHA endeavors to create future the well-connected, and long-term
conferences that draw consistently higher attendance and members, this strategy can work During the Second Battle of Fallujah, he provided medical care in
deliver unprecedented value to all stakeholders. well. But it fails for nearly everyone the streets while being protected by overhead snipers — he under-
else, including introverts and new- stands how to thrive in the extreme. Dr. Bose is one of America’s
comers, who are left feeling awkward, most experienced doctors on mass casualty, disaster care, and
In 2017, based on several years of alike share the goal of modernizing disconnected, and unsatisfied. The PTSD. He most recently designed a two-year emergency training
market research conducted about the educational sessions by making study recommended that AIHA create program for the ER team in Odessa, Texas. Incredibly, his highly
the conference, major changes were them more interactive and engaging. “intentional networking strategies” by prepared team was able to put his cutting-edge principles into
made to the length of the event and The days of podium sessions and connecting “like” attendees through action following the horrific shootings there in 2019.
its agenda. Even though the majority panels are no longer favored by the software, “tribe-finding,” and other
of attendees accepted and applauded majority of attendees. According to tactics that have a profound impact He characterizes his service in the Army as a humbling and trans-
the changes, we learned an important the study, CE credit hours and educa- on this important driver of satisfaction formational experience. He talks about the profound impact of
lesson—if any modifications are made tion are the most important elements and attendance. Asking participants to treating war casualties, performing life-saving procedures during
to the event in the future, it is better to of the conference for most attendees. self-identify with certain interests and raids and patrols, and offering humanitarian care in Baghdad.
communicate them to the member- Therefore, it is AIHA’s responsibility frames of mind will allow AIHA to match
ship before they are instituted. to ensure high-quality education that people by behavior (or persona) in order
Members and Dr. Bose uses his experiences in the ER and on the battlefield to
To take AIHce EXP to the next level delivers high levels of satisfaction. to deliver the kind of information they help audiences understand how to lead lives of impact and service
attendees alike and continually enhance the experi- However, the study showed that even are seeking in their inbox leading up to — in the process, he shares the keys to staying grounded in the
share the goal of ence for regular and new attendees though half of attendees identify CE the conference; uncover exhibitors that face of overwhelming circumstances.
modernizing the alike, AIHA engaged Maritz Global credit hours as a primary motivator have the resources they seek; match
Events, world-class corporate event for attendance, significant numbers them with like-minded attendees who
educational His background and uplifting, positive attitude enable him to
and experience consultants. Last of attendees also value time to net- might be valuable to their professional embrace countless new challenges and ventures — in medicine,
sessions by summer they conducted a market work (13 percent), visiting with exhib- network; and target the education entrepreneurship, personal health, and life — and he has become a
making them research study and assessed the AIHce itors (14 percent), and hearing unique they’ll find most valuable. vocal advocate for improved health care for Americans.
more interactive EXP conference experience based on keynote speakers (11 percent).
attendees’ feedback and the interests The study also concluded that LONG-TERM IMPROVEMENTS
and engaging. Selected as one of the Leading Physicians of the World by the
and motivations of AIHA members and well-orchestrated general sessions The transformation of AIHce EXP International Association of Healthcare Professionals, Dr. Bose is
past conference participants. Here’s a play an important role in creating won’t happen overnight. In fact, the a practicing emergency physician and health correspondent for
preview of what you can expect. shared experiences that convey great findings from the study might have many national media outlets. He has appeared on the Dr. Oz show
value through emotional resonance, a very subtle effect on the upcoming and frequently speaks on emergency medicine, mental health
AREAS OF FOCUS intellectual relevance, and esprit de conference in Atlanta (June 1–3). But issues for veterans, PTSD, and promoting an individual’s healthy
The recommendations from the Maritz corps. Furthermore, the study found to grow attendance, raise the bar on mind and body.
report focus on three primary areas: that people are looking to hone their education, and increase satisfaction,
educational session design (first and leadership skills. Speakers and events we will all need committed leadership,

JUNE 1 - 3 • ATLANTA, GA
foremost), general session design, and around leadership development are open and creative minds, and a clear
intentional networking strategies. in demand. and disciplined plan to see AIHce EXP
In terms of educational session For decades, typical association flourish in this new decade.
design, members and attendees events have poured attendees into I'll see you in Atlanta!

| February 2020 8 www.AIHce2020.org

 INDOOR AIR QUALITY INDOOR AIR QUALITY

IAQ-Related Comfort
D. JEFF BURTON, MS, PE, CIH
(VS 2012), CSP (VS 2002), is an industrial
Complaints
hygiene engineer with broad experience
When Should IH Be Involved, and Why?
in ventilation used for emission and
exposure control. He is an adjunct faculty BY D. JEFF BURTON
member at the Rocky Mountain Center for

I
Occupational and Environmental Health at
the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. He ndoor air quality is a limits, codes, or regulations exist for ios, we should also consider what’s dock and that the air intake should be zone and see if they would toler- ger-term solution, we should have tive humidity level is 70 to 75 percent.
can be reached at jeff@eburton.com. complex subject with many many IAQ issues that come to our average or typical for the conditions moved farther away to reduce indoor ate a lower temperature and then the vent system checked to be sure This level of humidity, besides being
facets. One difficulty that attention. The good news is that a we are going to investigate. For exam- CO to background levels. lower the thermostat a degree or it is balanced appropriately. uncomfortable, can enhance the
Send feedback to synergist@aiha.org. confronts IHs when we number of IAQ-related suggestions, ple, what range of concentrations of two. Fourth, we could try to deter- potential for mold growth (a health
get an IAQ complaint is guidelines, and recommendations carbon monoxide would we normally SCENARIO 2 mine why our complainer’s office is SCENARIO 4 issue), so something should be done
determining whether it’s a have been provided by authorities expect in a warehouse reception area? For the office worker who com- warmer than adjacent offices. Does Let’s finish with the humidity com- to lower the humidity—for example,
comfort issue or a health issue. If it’s a such as AIHA, ASHRAE, EPA, NIOSH, That varies from place to place, but plains of being too warm, we should the ventilation to his office need to plaints from occupants of the Denver we could check the operation of the
comfort issue, should we be concerned? and ACGIH. See the list of resources it wouldn’t be highly unusual to see first note the season. Let’s say it’s be adjusted? Does the office get office suite. Since the complaints are humidifier or dehumidifier in the
There are no easy answers, but several at the end of this article for a sampling average CO levels of 0.5 to 5 ppm in an summer. A quick temperature more sunlight than others? Is there coming from more than half of the ventilation system.
fundamentals should be considered: of IAQ-related information. indoor environment. Carbon monoxide measurement shows that the air in a heat source in the office, like hot occupants, the humidity in the space
in the exhaled breath of non-smokers the occupied small office is about computer screens? is likely over 60 percent. (ASHRAE THE BEST APPROACH
Comfort and health are often related. IAQ EXAMPLES can average as high as 5–10 ppm, so 78 degrees Fahrenheit and also a and other studies have suggested The best approach to any unusual IAQ
Having a chronic stuffy nose, for exam- This article explores four common IAQ occupants themselves can sometimes few degrees above the air tempera- SCENARIO 3 that relative humidity of between 40 condition that is causing comfort or
ple, is both uncomfortable and poten- “comfort” complaint scenarios that be the source of low background levels ture in offices located nearby. The How about the teacher who says and 60 percent in air are well-tol- health issues is to restore that condi-
tially unhealthy and could be related to could be more than just comfort: of CO indoors in occupancies with poor worker says that he sometimes feels her classroom is too drafty? erated by 80 to 90 percent of occu- tion to what is “typical” (or better) of
real IAQ problems, such as allergens Scenario 1: A Receiving Desk clerk ventilation. (This is another reason to increased irritability, has problems ASHRAE and other studies have pants.) A quick check using a clear problem-free spaces. Comfort com-
(mold spores, for example) in the air, working in a warehouse reception be sure that we are supplying recom- fully concentrating on his work, and found that we feel air movement glass filled with water and ice shows plaints often help us identify real and
or the air being too dry. area complains, “I sometimes smell mended amounts of outdoor air to takes more time to get his work fin- on our hands and arms at a velocity water condensation on the outside potential health issues and improve
Comfort issues may suggest truck exhaust odors, and I hate that occupied spaces.) ished (all of which can be related to of about 100 feet per minute. Many of the glass after about five min- employees’ well-being and produc-
or point to real or potential health smell.” Is this only a comfort issue, environments that are too warm). can feel air movement at 50 fpm on utes, suggesting that the humidity tivity, so don’t ignore them. Think
threats. An unexplained dull headache or is it something potentially health SCENARIO 1 We note that the office worker is fully their necks and ankles. (That’s one is likely too high. We next measure of them as opportunities to protect
may suggest overexposure to carbon related, like potential exposure to VOCs We follow up with our warehouse dressed, including a suit coat and tie. reason why we wear shirt collars the humidity with our psychrometer and enhance occupants’ well-being.
monoxide, for example. or carbon monoxide? desk clerk and find that she is indeed What could we do? and socks that cover our necks and or hygrometer, which shows the rela- That’s IH.
Comfort issues often reduce satis- Scenario 2: An office worker com- exposed to truck exhaust containing ASHRAE studies suggest that ankles.) These studies also sug-
faction and productivity of employees. plains about being “too warm” sitting carbon monoxide at indoor concen- 80 to 90 percent of non-physically gest that most people like to have
Unfortunately,
This is another important aspect of IH at his desk in a small office, where trations averaging about 10 to 15 active people prefer temperatures air velocities of about 30 to 50 fpm
few mandatory RESOURCES
work that we sometimes forget. Stud- conditions obviously don’t come close ppm, which is well below the ACGIH between 68F and 76F, the cooler around them, or they may feel it
AIHA: IAQ and HVAC Workbook, 4th edition, http://bit.ly/iaqhvacworkbook (2011).
limits, codes, or ies have shown that when employees to exceeding the ACGIH wet-bulb globe time-weighted average TLV of 25 ppm. temperatures in winter when they’re is “too stuffy.” People also tend to
AIHA: “Indoor Air Quality” in AIHA Buyer’s Guide, http://bit.ly/aihabgiaq (2019).
regulations exist are both comfortable and healthy, pro- temperature values provided for the Searching the literature, we find IAQ dressed for cold weather and the dislike velocities above the range
ductivity increases. Providing comfort- control of heat stress. guidelines that identify 5 to 10 ppm higher temperatures in summer of 100 to 150 fpm, which some ASHRAE: Ten Tips for Home Indoor Air Quality, http://bit.ly/ashraetentips.
for many IAQ
able conditions is an important aspect Scenario 3: A university instructor as suggested upper limits for indoor when they’re dressed for warm describe as “drafty.” The National Center for Biotechnology Information: PubMed, http://bit.ly/pubmedhome.
issues that come and result of IH work. complains she feels a strong air draft concentrations of CO. The desk clerk weather. We explore several options. Knowing this, we measure the air Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: “Hot Environments – Health Effects
to our attention. We in the IH profession rely on when she stands at a podium in front also says she sometimes feels a little First, we could suggest the person velocity at the teacher’s podium, find- and First Aid,” http://bit.ly/ccohshot.
codes and standards to support us in of the class because the air supply “headachy,” which suggests there are dress more for the season (no suit ing it ranges from 160 to 200 fpm at EPA: “Carbon Monoxide's Impact on Indoor Air Quality,” http://bit.ly/epacarbonmon.
our efforts to safeguard the health of register on the wall is blowing air on times when the exposure levels may coat, maybe a short-sleeve shirt). the level of her head and 70 to 90 fpm
HVAC.com: “What Are the Effects of Too Little or Too Much Humidity?” http://bit.ly/
people—for example, by using expo- her. But there are no specific limits set exceed our measurements. We dis- Second, we could supply a small, near her ankles. She also complains hvachumidity.
sure limits like ACGIH’s Threshold for the maximum average air velocity cover that the fresh air intake for the quiet fan that the person could direct of dry skin and rashes. This last
National Institute of Building Sciences: Whole Building Design Guide, “Provide Comfortable
Limit Values and OSHA’s Permissible passing a teacher in a school. receiving area ventilation system is toward himself to provide some finding suggests we should quickly
Environments,” http://bit.ly/wbdgcomfort.
Exposure Limits. But what if the expo- Scenario 4: A slight majority (55 located next to the warehouse load- cooling air over his body, help move provide some relief—for example, by
sure or condition, although well below percent) of those in an office suite in ing dock. away the body’s warmer air, and adjusting the inlet air supply register
Mayo Clinic: “Carbon Monoxide Poisoning,” http://bit.ly/mayocopoisoning.
these limits, is causing some discom- Denver complain that it’s “too humid What are our options? We would improve cooling evaporation on his so it blows up and over, or behind, NIOSH: “Indoor Environmental Quality,” http://bit.ly/nioshieqoverview.
fort or concerns about the indoor air in here.” likely recommend that trucks not be skin. Third, we could check with the the teacher. We could also provide a National Research Council: “Air-Quality Standards,” Appendix A of Indoor Pollutants,
quality? Unfortunately, few mandatory Before we jump into these scenar- allowed to run while at the loading other occupants of the ventilation screen near the teacher. For a lon- http://bit.ly/aqstandards (1981).

| February 2020 10 11 www.aiha.org |

 SPECIAL SECTION: AIHA CANDIDATES’ FORUM

VICE PRESIDENT

Donna S. Heidel, MS, CIH, FAIHA John Moore, MS, CIH, CSP
National Practice Leader – Industrial Hygiene President
Apex Companies, LLC Control EHS
Have your voice heard... Rockville, Md. Atlanta, Ga.

community.aiha.org
Each year, The Synergist asks candi- We struggle to reach In over 20 years I’ve served
dates for the AIHA Board of Directors beyond ourselves to as a mentor, and been on
to participate in a candidates’ forum. share our contributions various community and
This year’s candidates were asked to in achieving healthy work- STEM-related Boards. I’ve

Learn how you can invest in respond to the following question:

As you may have heard, AIHA has
places. Business leaders
may not understand the
gained a firm understand-
ing of the lack of knowl-

your own success. embarked on a multi-year Brand

Refresh Initiative. To this end, in
value of the IH in assuring
the health of the workforce that achieves
edge there is about indus-
trial hygiene; we need to continue to have
your opinion, how could AIHA more their business goals. This struggle also influ- conversations about what we specialize in
effectively promote the value of the ences the career paths chosen by students as it relates to the interest of employees and
profession to external stakeholders who desire to positively impact the health sustainability in the prevention and control
“not like ourselves”? Such audiences of others since they simply do not know the of health hazards. AIHA should support and
include but are not necessarily lim- profession. Several recent successes provide extend our efforts with projects like #IAMIH
ited to: secondary school students, a framework for reaching beyond ourselves and other outreach initiatives, developing
college STEM students, guidance and to grow our profession and our influence in media and social media concepts to consis-
career counselors, business C-suite, healthy workplaces. tently deliver our purpose. We need to reach
EHS management, HR and recruiters, The Opioids Working Group developed out to the international community as well
military veterans, and labor unions. job-specific exposure control resources for and support our profession worldwide. Our
The candidates’ responses to this first responders, a workforce estimated at 3 profession is different than “safety,” but I
Join the dialogue about question appear on the following pages. million. As a result, we will not only protect see opportunities for AIHA to partner with
This year’s ballot includes two candi- the health of these workers but also inform other associations in expanding awareness in
hot topics affecting the dates for vice president, two for secre- the first responder community about our what we do well. We all should be mentoring
tary-elect, and four for director.
industry... and get help AIHA members will be notified via
profession. Our information hub on wildfires,
our guideline for the control of Legionella in
and advocating our brand as the experts in
IH. Our members are our strongest voices
from peers about how email when the election opens in building water systems, and our participation when it comes to promoting industrial
mid-February. The email will con- on the Indoor Environmental Quality Global hygiene. We need to continue to have pro-
to overcome your own tain a link to the secure online voting Alliance also demonstrate the value of reach- active discussions with the stakeholders on
workplace challenges. site. Paper ballots were mailed in ing beyond our traditional industry base. a regular basis. We should do more with our
early February to all members who AIHA can effectively promote the value younger members to empower them with
requested them. The paper ballot must of our profession by engaging volunteers knowledge and fundamentals to grow our
be returned postmarked no later than to develop exposure control solutions for footprint. We should encourage members
Friday, Feb. 21, to be counted in the emerging health hazards and supporting of diverse talents and backgrounds to carry
election. For more information, please the widespread communication of our the message of the importance of indus-
contact nominations@aiha.org. solutions, not simply to us but to all those trial hygiene and how we serve to protect
potentially affected by the hazard. Students the public and the employees (community,
and educators will recognize the value of businesses, and government entities).
the profession’s contributions and choose
the IH career path.

Download our infographic

VALUE of AIHA MEMBERSHIP: BY THE NUMBERS
13 www.aiha.org |
 SPECIAL SECTION: AIHA CANDIDATES’ FORUM SPECIAL SECTION: AIHA CANDIDATES’ FORUM

SECRETARY-ELECT DIRECTOR (TWO TO BE ELECTED)

AIHA Presidents Bradley S. King, PhD, MPH, CIH Michael D. Larrañaga, PhD, PE, CIH, CSP, Kimberly Castillon, CIH Bernard L. Fontaine, Jr., CIH, CSP, FAIHA Maharshi Mehta, CIH, CSP Rick Newman, CIH
CAPT, U.S. Public Health Service FAIHA Region 1 Audit Program Manager Managing Partner President Health Informatics Lead/Sr. Industrial
AIHA acknowledges the men and women who have Senior Industrial Hygienist, NIOSH Western Managing Principal and President OSHA The Windsor Consulting Group, Inc. International Safety Systems, Inc. Hygienist, Corporate Health Services
served as presidents of the association. Their lead- States Division Insight Risk, LLC (DBA R.E.M.) Boston, Mass. Monroe, N.J. South Brunswick, N.J. Marathon Petroleum Company
ership and vision have contributed significantly to the Denver, Colo. Dallas, Texas Findlay, Ohio
advancement of the organization and the profession.
To more effectively The emerging While taking on AIHA must seek a Defining our pro- The first step,
2019: Kathleen S. Murphy 1978: Paul E. Toth promote the value practice of indus- a brand refresh robust multi-dis- fession in two which AIHA
2018: Cynthia A. Ostrowski 1977: Paul F. Woolrich of our profession to trial hygiene has can be challeng- ciplinary approach words, “industrial has taken, is to
2017: Deborah Imel Nelson 1976: Evan E. Campbell stakeholders “not required us to adapt ing, I believe it is both internal to the hygiene,” is not an acknowledge that
2016: Steven E. Lacey 1975: Edward J. Baier like ourselves,” we to modern work- imperative in order membership and easy task. “Occu- there is a need to
2015: Daniel H. Anna 1974: John A. Pendergrass need to ask and places, communi- to keep pace with external to valued pational health and improve the way
2014: Christine A.D. Lorenzo 1973: Jerome T. Siedlecki understand what ties, practice areas AIHA’s message, business partners hygiene” seems to we promote the
2013: Barbara J. Dawson 1972: Paul D. Halley is most important to them. By doing beyond the workplace and the worker, and also to ensure that message is with a similar mission, value, and vision. be more a reflection on what we do. I profession. When we look around us
2012: Allan K. Fleeger 1971: John A. Zapp, Jr. so, we can advance outreach tools and expanding expectations for indus- distributed in a way that encourages Moreover, there are business valued would like to insert in communication and all we see is uniformity, we need
2011: Elizabeth L. Pullen 1970: Franklin W. Church and programs individualized to these trial hygienists to remain specialists involvement and future growth. We, as opportunities for AIHA members within terms like “reducing occupational to do more, become more diverse.
2010: Michael T. Brandt 1969: David W. Fassett groups, highlighting how our profes- while at the same time becoming gen- a professional group, have the oppor- local sections and nationally to engage health risk,” which in turn “enhances To promote the profession effectively
2009: Cathy L. Cole 1968: Lewis J. Cralley sion successfully speaks to their values eral practitioners. Industrial hygiene has tunity to perform one of the greatest and empower members from students overall quality of working population” requires a multi-level approach, from
2008: Lindsay E. Booher 1967: Clyde M. Berry and addresses those answers. For high become a critical component of allied services by ensuring the safety and to mid-career professionals to enhance while reaching out to stakeholders. grade school through early career pro-
2007: Donald J. Hart 1966: William T. McCormick school students who value informed fields such as healthcare, public health, health of people around the world in their education and learning opportu- Here are some approaches to pro- fessionals ready for a change.
2006: Frank M. Renshaw 1965: Vincent J. Castrop guidance on fulfilling career paths, safety, homeland security, and climate all kinds of settings. While AIHA as an nities, promote the profession, mentor moting the value of the profession: We can adapt the tools we use as
2005: Roy M. Buchan 1964: William E. McCormick improved engagement with guidance change due to our critical value-added organization and CIHs as professionals undergraduate and graduate students, 1. AIHA volunteer groups from vari- industrial hygienists to the problem
2004: Donna M. Doganiero 1963: Harry F. Schulte counselors and associations includ- contributions in risk assessment and are recognized within the safety and cross-train other professionals, and ous committees visit local colleges of promoting our profession—defining
2003: Thomas G. Grumbles 1962: Kenneth M. Morse ing the American School Counselor management, emergency response, health industry, the associated value provide study partners. and arrange a hands-on workshop the problem, determining the cause,
2002: Gayla J. McCluskey 1961: Willis G. Hazard Association is imperative. For college disaster planning and response, and can get lost to those outside the pro- For mid-career professionals, provide on occupational hygiene. Student developing solutions, implementing
2001: Henry B. Lick 1960: Jack C. Radcliffe STEM students who value impactful public health preparedness. As the field fession. low-cost training and review courses for representatives are introduced to solutions, and evaluating the success
2000: Steven P. Levine 1959: Elmer P. Wheeler new technologies, we need to highlight continues to emerge, the practice of As a group of professionals contin- certification, solicit outreach initiatives the concept, then they walk through of those solutions. We start with the
1999: James R. Thornton 1958: Kenneth W. Nelson exciting technologies including robot- industrial hygiene will remain relevant uously evolving, we have battled with to schools with STEM programs, dis- their area and identify health haz- end in mind, defining what successfully
1998: James C. Rock 1957: Charles R. Williams ics, sensors, artificial intelligence, and long into the future. AIHA could more a complicated definition. Even after cuss how industrial hygiene can protect ards and how to reduce health promoting our profession looks like.
1997: D. Jeff Burton 1956: Lester V. Cralley predictive analytics they can expect to effectively promote the value of the pro- 25 years as an industrial hygienist my worker, public, and environmental health, risk. The best performer receives Next step is to establish where we are
1996: S. Z. Mansdorf 1955: Nathan V. Hendricks engage with and advance in our profes- fession by assisting industrial hygienists family still asks, “What exactly do you reach out to business organizations, and an award from AIHA. today, to set a benchmark. Success
1995: Vernon E. Rose 1954: Herbert T. Walworth sion. For unions who value creating safe, at all career stages in becoming effective do?” collaborate with state agencies on mat- 2. AIHA arranges a seminar for deans will require engagement of the mem-
1994: Jeremiah Lynch 1953: Henry F. Smyth, Jr. healthful work environments, we need to at communicating both the business I believe our message needs to be ters affecting people and planet. and principals of colleges and dis- bership. Who better to promote the
1993: Harry J. Ettinger 1952: William R. Bradley reach out to showcase success stories case and the risks associated with var- simplified and encompass a unified On a more senior level, members cusses how significant our profes- profession than those of us who live
1992: Henry J. Muranko 1951: Anna M. Baetjer of our members utilizing expertise to ious decision pathways. In this way, we brand that capitalizes on the value and can begin outreach programs to dis- sion is in reducing health risk and it every day? With a starting point, a
1991: Robert E. Sheriff 1950: Allen D. Brandt solve real-world workplace health and could take advantage of the principles importance of our work. The dissemi- cuss and propose legislation with state increasing longevity of the working defined goal, and an engaged mem-
1990: John L. Henshaw 1949: Edgar C. Barnes safety problems. For veterans, we can of exponential influence and diffusion nation of this message could work well representatives, seek industry and population. Relate this to someone bership working at every level, success
1989: Frederick M. Toca 1948: James H. Sterner highlight how service to others is an of ideas such that each of us becomes on social media where interactions are regional and national business part- in their family who is working in is all but guaranteed.
1988: William H. Krebs 1947: Theodore F. Hatch inherent value within our profession, our own advocate to promote the value broad and far-reaching. A unified, sim- ners on similar concerns on social, industry and potential health risk Success is not an endpoint; it is the
1987: Emil E. Christofano 1946: Frank A. Patty promoting ways they could find a ful- of the profession and communicate our plified, and concise message can be political, and economic issues, provide and risk mitigation options. beginning of a process of continued
1986: Alice C. Farrar 1945: Robert A. Kehoe filling service-oriented home within value to society. used in all types of venues—small busi- stories and briefs to educate the public, 3. Invite school deans and principals promotion. There are existing AIHA
1985: Howard L. Kusnetz 1944: John J. Bloomfield industrial hygiene. As these diverse ness, contractors, trade organizations, speak at business meetings and public from the city where AIHce is held at committees for developing career
1984: Gene X. Kortsha 1943: Helmuth H. Schrenk stakeholders show, we need to recognize social media, presentations, job fairs, events including local radio and tele- no cost. Invite also student leaders opportunities, mentoring, and retaining
1983: Charles H. Powell 1942: Philip Drinker that one message does not fit all. Efforts and internships/universities to name vision, and crosswalk the profession at AIHce and discuss career options. young professionals. Perhaps organiz-
1982: Ralph G. Smith 1941: Donald E. Cummings to create and deliver more individualized a few. However, before disseminating between various business and educa- 4. Obtain the mail list of other stake- ing the membership to address pro-
1981: Newell E. Bolton 1940: Warren A. Cook outreach, crafted around the needs and the message, it is key to simplify the tional platforms from product steward- holders like labor unions and HR moting the profession with a dedicated
1980: James E. Long 1939: William P. Yant values of these stakeholders, will require definition and identify the value. ship to  total worker health. Retirees managers and conduct free webi- committee will ensure that when we
1979: Donald R. McFee the sustained energy and involvement of within the local sections are a valuable nars on the value of our profession look around our profession, we see
every one of us within AIHA. resource to guide and manage local in increasing lifespan, among other strength and diversity.
section strategic management plans, value additions.
improve the bylaws, record historical
perspectives, and recognize the distin-
guished service of longtime colleagues.

| February 2020 14 15 www.aiha.org |

 NEWSWATCH NEWSWATCH

SILICA CHEMICAL AND MATERIAL HAZARDS

European Chemicals Agency Maps Its

California Seeks to Minimize “Chemical Universe”

Stone Workers’ Silica Dust

The European Chemicals Agency is needed; substances for which EU ping of the REACH chemical universe
has mapped its “chemical universe,” authorities have not currently pro- shows that possible regulatory actions
which comprises a list of more than posed further regulatory action; and have not yet been determined for more

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS

NIOSH TO DEVELOP
Exposure 21,000 substances registered under
REACH, the European Union’s Reg-
substances that are registered under
REACH but not yet assigned to any of
than 18,000 registered substances.
“We are currently focusing mostly COMPLIANCE
TEMPORARY OSHA POLICY
ulation on Registration, Evaluation, the other pools. on the substances registered for vol-
CATEGORICAL OELS ADDRESSES CRANE

T
Authorization, and Restriction of ECHA’s chemical universe is umes greater than 100 tonnes per
FOR ENGINEERED he Occupational Health much higher than allowed under the positive for silicosis and 15 had devel- Chemicals. The substances on ECHA’s intended to help EU authorities focus year, where we aim to assign each OPERATOR
NANOMATERIALS Branch of the California new federal [OSHA] silica standard,” oped progressive massive fibrosis, a list are divided into five “pools” based their regulatory actions associated substance to one of the pools by the CERTIFICATIONS
NIOSH requests information on Department of Public CDPH says. “It is likely that many more severe form of the disease. A report on the regulatory actions associated with registered substances. The end of 2020,” said Jack de Bruijn, A temporary enforcement policy
engineered nanomaterials to Health has published cases of silicosis among U.S. stone published in September in CDC’s Mor- with each chemical. The five pools agency stresses that the list does ECHA’s director for Prioritization and issued by OSHA on Nov. 25 states
evaluate the possible adverse resources for employers and workers fabrication workers have occurred but bidity and Mortality Weekly Report notes comprise substances with confirmed not indicate whether a substance’s Integration. that the agency will not accept
health risks of occupational to minimize exposure to silica dust are unrecognized, since few workers that these findings “suggest that there hazards for human health and the use is safe. According to ECHA, sub- ECHA intends to draw similar con- crane operator certifications
exposure to ENMs. The agency when working with engineered stone have been given a silicosis medical might be many more U.S. cases that environment; substances that are stances’ assignments to a pool will clusions for all remaining registered and re-certifications issued by
intends to develop categorical during countertop fabrication and examination.” have yet to be identified.” ABC’s arti- being considered for regulatory risk change over time as new information substances by the end of 2027. Further Crane Institute Certification on
occupational exposure limits for installation. The branch has developed In addition to the two California work- cle is available at http://bit.ly/abcsili management; substances that require becomes available or as authorities’ details are available in the agency’s or after Dec. 2, 2019. The agency
ENMs based on the available sci- hazard warnings for both workers and ers, CDC has identified 16 other cases of cosis, and CDC’s report is available at additional information to conclude priorities change. press release at http://bit.ly/echa requires construction crane
entific data regarding the hazard employers, and has issued an occu- silicosis among stone workers in Colo- http://bit.ly/mmwrsilicosis. whether further regulatory action A figure that depicts ECHA’s map- universe. operators to be certified by an
or safety of these materials. pational health alert (PDF, http://bit. rado, Texas, and Washington since 2017. More information about crystalline entity accredited by a nationally
NIOSH seeks data on the physi- ly/silicaalert) regarding a recent out- Most of the patients reported conducting silica is available from the websites recognized accrediting agency.
cochemical characterization of break of silicosis among engineered According to OSHA, CIC no longer
ENMs; the biological mecha- stone fabrication workers across four holds such accreditation. The
“It is likely that many more cases of REGULATION AND LEGISLATION
nisms and toxicological effects states. A new page on CDPH’s website, agency’s temporary enforcement
of ENMs; and the dose-response http://bit.ly/cdphsilica, collects these silicosis among U.S. stone fabrication policy is intended to prevent
relationships between exposure resources and others from OSHA, industry confusion and potential
workers have occurred but are unrecog-
to ENMs and the development NIOSH, and the Centers for Disease disruptions of construction crane
of adverse lung effects such as Control and Prevention. nized, since few workers have been given a Proposal Would Require Reporting of Accidental projects.
inflammation, fibrosis, or neo- Two engineered stone fabrication
silicosis medical examination.” Chemical Releases within Four Hours Although CIC-issued certifi-
plasia. The agency also requests workers died in 2018 in California cations are not compliant with
human, animal, and cellular from severe silicosis at the ages of A rule proposed by the U.S. Chem- decisions regarding its jurisdiction, while the facts and circumstances are OSHA’s crane operator certifi-
toxicology data. 36 and 38. According to CDPH, both tasks such as cutting and grinding engi- of CDC and NIOSH at http://bit.ly/ ical Safety and Hazard Investiga- interagency coordination, and deploy- still fresh,” the agency explains. cation requirement, the agency
NIOSH encourages stakehold- worked at a stone countertop fabrica- neered stone, while two reported that silicacdc and http://bit.ly/silicaniosh, tion Board in December would ment. In the Federal Register notice CSB is under court order to promul- says that it does not intend to
ers to submit relevant informa- tion company performing tasks such they were exposed to stone dust only respectively. The AIHA newsletter Syn- require business owners or oper- outlining the proposal, CSB describes gate a final rule requiring the report- cite employers for operating
tion by Feb. 18, 2020. The agency as polishing, dry cutting, and grind- during workplace housekeeping activi- ergist Newswire recently featured three ators to submit accidental release the importance of its investigators ing of accidental chemical releases equipment that violates that
asks that supporting information ing slabs of engineered stone, which ties. Previously, only one case of silicosis articles published by NPR about silico- reports to CSB within four hours requirement as long as their
for published studies include can contain more than 90 percent had been reported among engineered sis among U.S. countertop workers: of a release. The proposed rule is operators, in good faith, obtained
CSB is under court order to promulgate
a full citation. For unpublished crystalline silica. A November 2019 stone fabrication workers in the United “‘It's Going to Get Worse': How U.S. intended to ensure that the agency CIC-issued certifications prior
studies, NIOSH requests that email from CDPH, which is available at States, according to CDC. In 2018, the Countertop Workers Started Getting receives quick and accurate reports a final rule requiring the reporting of to Dec. 2, 2019, with the belief
commenters include authors, http://bit.ly/nov2019cdph, states that agency estimated that there were more Sick” (see http://bit.ly/nprsilica1); of accidental releases of regulated that the certifications met OSHA
accidental chemical releases
affiliations, year, and context 43 more employees at the company than 96,000 employees in the U.S. stone “‘There's No Good Dust’: What Hap- substances or other extremely haz- requirements.
on how the data were collected. have been checked and almost 12 per- fabrication industry. pens After Quartz Countertops Leave ardous substances into the ambient by Feb. 5, 2020. More information is available
Further details are available in cent found to also have silicosis. The Reports in other countries have the Factory” (see http://bit.ly/npr air. According to CSB, the proposed from OSHA at http://bit.ly/
the Federal Register at http://bit. department urges stone fabrication confirmed the existence of multiple silica2); and “A New Safety Program reports would only require informa- arriving at accident sites within the by Feb. 5, 2020. In February 2019, oshacicpolicy.
ly/categoricaloels. and installation employers to follow silicosis cases among stone work- Takes On Silica Dust Amid a Possible tion that is already known or should first 24 hours following a release. a U.S. District Court judge gave the
the OSHA and Cal/OSHA standards for ers. In February 2019, the Australian Crisis” (see http://bit.ly/nprsilica3). be available to an owner or operator “CSB has learned from experience agency 12 months to issue the rule.
silica and implement necessary con- news agency ABC published infor- An infographic about silicosis among soon after an accidental release. CSB that it is often crucial to begin an CSB accepted public comments on the
trol measures to reduce dust levels. mation about silicosis among stone Queensland stone workers appears in explains that the required information investigation within this timeframe to proposed rule until Jan. 13.
“Studies have shown that the silica workers in the state of Queensland, the April 2019 Synergist at http://bit. would be limited in scope to informa- examine physical evidence before it is Read more in the Federal Register
exposure in many of these shops is where nearly 100 stoneworkers tested ly/queenslandsilicosis. tion required for the agency to make disturbed, and to interview witnesses notice at http://bit.ly/csbreleaserule.

| February 2020 16 17 www.aiha.org |

 NEWSWATCH NEWSWATCH
We provide more than just data
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT HEALTHCARE
delivery. We provide solutions.

New Fact Sheet Series from NIOSH Focuses on NIOSH Study Finds Health » Air Respirable Silica - Enhanced
detection down to 2.5 µg per filter
PPE Themes, Trends Issues among Patient Care
» Laboratory Services (incl. asbestos,
Aides lead, nanotechnology, acid mists,
The NIOSH National Personal Pro- felt that they were not getting correct users will have a facepiece that fits
tective Technology Laboratory has information on SCBA facepiece sizing correctly. The agency urges respirator A recent NIOSH study of patient care aides raises concerns regarding health
heavy metals, solvents & vapors)
published the first in a new series of from sales representatives. Another users and purchasers to consult local, issues and limited access to healthcare among these workers. According to
MANUFACTURING fact sheets focused on the agency’s issue was that SCBA facepieces did state, and federal regulations regard- the agency, approximately 2.4 million U.S. workers are employed as patient
» Advanced Technology for Nanoscale
OSHA RENEWS FOCUS ON findings from post-market personal not fit all firefighters because they ing correct fit of firefighter PPE. Other care aides who provide basic care to patients at home, in nursing homes, Sampling
AMPUTATION HAZARDS IN protective equipment tests, evalua- and in hospitals. NIOSH researchers found that compared to clerical work-
MANUFACTURING » GHS Materials Characterization
tions, and investigations. The series, The series is intended to inform respira- ers, patient care aides have lower levels of health insurance coverage and
An OSHA directive that went into “Personal Protective Equipment are less able to afford medical visits and to obtain preventive medical and
effect in December updates the Conformity Assessment Studies and tor users about common themes or trends dental care. Patient care aides are also more likely to smoke, be obese, and » Beryllium Analysis
agency’s 2015 National Emphasis Evaluations Notes,” or “PPE CASE identified by NIOSH through processes have insufficient sleep. The study found that aides working in home health
» Analytical Method Development
Program on amputations and Notes,” is intended to inform respi- settings specifically are the most likely to report adverse health outcomes
provides guidance to OSHA’s rator users about common themes related to agency-approved respirators. such as poor physical health, depression, high blood pressure, high cho-
national, regional, and area or trends identified by NIOSH through lesterol, arthritis, and asthma. Aides working in nursing homes were the » Trace Contaminant Identification
offices for continued implemen- processes related to agency-approved did not form a tight seal against the guidelines such as NFPA 1852, Stan- second most likely—ahead of patient care aides working at hospitals—to
tation of the program. As part respirators. The first installment of users’ faces. dard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance report these health effects.
of the NEP, OSHA will target PPE Case Notes focuses on self-con- NIOSH’s new fact sheet explains that of Open-Circuit SCBA, provide informa- NIOSH’s study used data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance
industrial and manufacturing tained breathing apparatus facepiece sizing issues are not a nonconformance tion on facepiece selection in terms of System, a system of telephone surveys that collect state data about U.S.
workplaces where employees sizing issues within fire departments. and that the agency cannot intervene sizing and other considerations. residents regarding health-related risk behaviors, chronic health conditions,
go.rjlg.com/ehs-services | 800.860.1775
are injured by unguarded or After fire departments reported these for corrective action in these types of The new fact sheet is available to and use of preventive services. According to the Centers for Disease Control
improperly guarded machinery issues as a nonconformance, NIOSH cases. NIOSH reminds fire depart- download from NIOSH’s website at and Prevention, BRFSS completes more than 400,000 adult interviews each
and equipment. The updated NEP, found that some departments ordered ments and other respirator users to http://bit.ly/scbacasenotes. NPPTL year. Of the home health and nursing home aides in the BRFSS analysis,
which is available as a PDF at a single-size facepiece for all their fire- evaluate sizing requirements prior to plans to publish additional fact sheets more than 90 percent were female, and more than half identified as Black
http://bit.ly/nepmanufacturing, fighters. Some fire departments also making a purchase to ensure that all in the series in 2020. non-Hispanic, Hispanic, or as members of other minority groups.
includes revisions to targeting NIOSH describes patient care aides as a fast-growing, low-wage workforce. 866-736-8347
methodology to include data STANDARDS
In 2017, the group’s median wage was $12.31 per hour. NIOSH expects jobs www.RaecoRents.com
from amputation reporting for home health aides to increase the most rapidly—by 47 percent by 2026.
requirements; changes to coding Sharon Silver, lead author of the study, hopes that NIOSH’s research will
Direct-Reading Dust Monitors
requirements for amputa- highlight the need to address health issues and gaps in healthcare access
tion inspections in the OSHA among patient care aides. Measure dust particulate size and particle mass
Information System; and new OSHA Corrects Standards on Walking-Working “While the effects of tasks such as patient lifting are increasingly being concentration with TSI DustTrak II and DustTrak DRX.
Benchtop and handheld models available for short- or
appendices on amputations that
address methodology and North
Surfaces, PPE, and Special Industries addressed in the relatively centralized worksites of hospitals and nursing
homes, more research is needed to determine how best to develop and
long-term rental projects.
American Industry Classification A notice published by OSHA in the for fixed ladder side rail extensions. national consensus standard ANSI/ disseminate solutions tailored to home health aides, a group of workers with
System codes. Federal Register in December cor- The agency also clarified that artic- ASSE Z359.12-2009, Connecting the fewest economic resources, high turnover rates, and multiple, dispersed,
OSHA’s updated NEP includes rects errors and clarifies require- ulated stairs are not covered by the Components for Personal Fall Arrest and frequently changing worksites,” Silver said.
three months of education and ments in the agency’s standards on standard. Two other corrections to the Systems. NIOSH’s study was published online in October in the American Journal
prevention outreach, which will walking-working surfaces, personal walking-working surfaces standard’s OSHA has also identified incorrect of Industrial Medicine at http://bit.ly/ajimpatientcare. More information is
run until March 10, 2020. The protective equipment, and special sections on scaffolds and rope descent references to ladder standards in the available in the agency’s press release at http://bit.ly/nioshpatientcare.
agency’s news release (see industries. OSHA’s corrections to the systems and fall protection systems fix special industries standard’s section A NIOSH workplace safety and health topic page, http://bit.ly/nioshhome
http://bit.ly/prnepmanu walking-working surfaces standard a typographical error and add labels on electric power generation, trans- care, collects resources for home healthcare workers, including a series of
facturing) states that enforce- address measurements for fixed to a figure that were mistakenly omit- mission, and distribution. The agency “fast facts” cards that provide brief explanations of hazards related to home
ment activities will begin after ladder side rail extensions and clar- ted when the final rule was originally is replacing the incorrect references healthcare and a free curriculum intended to assist trainers in meeting the
the outreach period and remain ify the agency’s intentions regard- published. with the correct ones. needs of home healthcare workers. “Protecting Home Healthcare Aides,”
in effect until canceled. ing articulated stairs, or stairs that A correction related to personal OSHA’s corrections to these stan- an article published in the April 2019 issue of The Synergist (see http://bit. PM1 Respirable
change pitch due to change in height fall protection systems states that dards went into effect on Dec. 17, ly/synhealthaides), also discusses challenges and opportunities for safe PM2.5 PM Total
at the point of attachment. Accord- OSHA’s provision regarding the gate 2019. For further details, see the patient handling and mobility. PM10
ing to OSHA, 42 inches is the mini- strength of snap hooks and carabin- Federal Register notice at http://bit.
Daily, weekly, and long-term rentals. Free UPS Ground
mum—not the exact—measurement ers should be consistent with the ly/dec2019oshafr.
round-trip shipping on every rental order $500 or larger.

| February 2020 18 19 www.aiha.org |

 NEWSWATCH NEWSWATCH

PESTICIDES REGULATION AND LEGISLATION

Researchers Examine Skin Exposure to Pesticides EPA Considers Future Rulemaking

among Apple Growers Related to PFAS
A recent study published by IRSST measuring pesticides. he saw no visible splattering when EPA will consider proposing a future rule to add health effects from PFAS exposure, particularly
examined apple growers’ skin expo- “Microscopic exposure situations he was handling the products. Other certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or those arising from occupational exposure among
sure to pesticides, perceptions of risk, are the most frequent and occur growers explained that smell factors PFAS, to its Toxics Release Inventory list of report- firefighters and environmental exposures to com-
use of protective clothing, and pre- often,” IRSST’s report reads. “The into how they perceive risks related to able chemicals. The agency opened a public com- munities near military bases, have been widely
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE vention practices. The apple growers frequency of microexposure situations pesticides: if a pesticide smells bad, ment period in December to inform the potential covered by the news media.
EQUIPMENT
in IRSST’s study wore long sleeves, could be a factor in the limited percep- they feel it’s more dangerous. rulemaking, which is related to EPA’s PFAS Action EPA’s Toxics Release Inventory tracks the
NIOSH UPDATES long pants, and protective clothing in tion of the significance of exposure IRSST hopes that in the absence of Plan to address challenges with PFAS and in the management of certain toxic chemicals that
STANDARD TESTING most of the exposure situations that through the skin.” quantifiable biological exposure mea- environment (see http://bit.ly/pfasplan). Due to may pose a threat to human health and the
PROCEDURE FOR were analyzed. However, research- concerns related to PFAS’ potential for environ- environment. The agency’s advance notice of Recent webinars include:
P95 SERIES FILTERS ers observed “considerable variety” Researchers found that apple growers’ mental persistence and bioaccumulation, the proposed rulemaking requested comments • Advanced FR/AR Concepts: A Deeper
NIOSH has updated the standard in growers’ protective clothing and agency is also considering whether to establish on which PFAS should be evaluated for listing Look into FR/AR Protection
testing procedure for the noted that they did not always use it as personal experiences with pesticides may reporting thresholds for PFAS that are lower than in TRI, how to list them, and the appropriate • EHS Air Quality Monitoring
determination of particulate recommended to ensure the desired also contribute to reduced perception of the usual statutory thresholds. reporting thresholds for PFAS. Public com- • Why Is FR/AR Compliance So
filter efficiency for P95 series level of protection. A key finding of the PFAS are fluorinated compounds found in a ments and further details about this rulemaking Difficult?
filters against liquid particulates study is that incidents involving unex- risks associated with skin exposure wide variety of products, including firefighting can be accessed via the Federal Register at • Challenges to Consider When
for non-powered, air-purifying pected, major exposures to pesticides to pesticides. foam and stain-resistant carpets. Concerns about http://bit.ly/epapfasfr. Pursuing Laboratory Inventory
respirators. According to the are infrequent in this industry. Instead, Management
agency, these filters or filter researchers found that apple growers Researchers found that apple surements, sharing information related
cartridges may be integral to
respirator construction; mounted
are subject to many “microexposures,”
or exposures of low intensity and short
growers’ personal experiences with
pesticides may also contribute to
to repeated and cumulative skin expo-
sure with apple growers may help them
BIOLOGICAL HAZARDS
View archive at
aiha.webvent.tv
individually or in sets of up to duration, which do not impede work reduced perception of risks associ- become more aware of pesticide-re-
three; used in conjunction with and thus are not particularly visible to ated with skin exposure to pesticides. lated risks and facilitate the adoption
cartridges and canisters for workers. Microexposures are related For example, one grower in the study of effective skin protective measures.
chin-style, front-mounted, and
back-mounted gas masks; or
to tasks that are frequently repeated
by apple growers such as mixing and
mentioned that he didn’t think he had
been exposed to pesticides because
IRSST’s study is freely available at
http://bit.ly/irsstapplegrowers.
Researchers Examine Exposures from
used in combination with gas- Use of Biological Degreasing Stations
and-vapor or atmosphere-sup- TOXICOLOGY
plying respirators. The purpose A recent study published by IRSST examined purpose of IRSST’s recent study was to assess
of the update is to establish the workers’ exposure to microorganisms when using occupational risk of exposure to these microor-
procedure for ensuring that the biological degreasing stations. These stations use ganisms through inhalation.
particulate filtering efficiency a degreasing agent containing bacteria that break IRSST researchers who monitored the fluids in
level of P95 series filters used Draft Toxicological Profile for Chlorobenzene down fats, oils, and greases by mineralization. five biological degreasing stations over one year
on non-powered respirators
submitted to NIOSH for approval
Published According to IRSST, manufacturers of the agents
used in biological degreasing stations claim that
identified 60 bacterial species from both Risk
Group 1 and Risk Group 2. The study found that
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
or extension of approval meet A new draft toxicological profile for skin. ATSDR warns that high levels of and the ACGIH Threshold Limit Value the microorganisms they contain are harmless the biological degreasing stations were rapidly ADVERTISER PAGE
minimum certification stan- chlorobenzene is available for review chlorobenzene can damage the liver are lower; both organizations’ recom- because they are classified as Risk Group 1 under colonized by exogenous microorganisms such Inside Front
EMSL Analytical
dards. and public comment from the Agency and kidneys and affect the brain. The mended limits for chlorobenzene are the four-group infection risk ranking system used as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and that the main Cover
A PDF copy of the revised for Toxic Substances and Disease agency notes that workers exposed to 10 ppm. NIOSH has not established in most countries (information on risk groups is risk with skin contact is wound infection or acci- EMSL Analytical Back Cover
procedure, dated Oct. 31, 2019, is Registry at http://bit.ly/chloroben high levels of chlorobenzene in the air a Recommended Exposure Limit for available from the U.S. Department of Health and dental ingestion. According to the authors, strict
available from NIOSH at http:// zenedraft. According to ATSDR, chlo- reported health effects such as head- chlorobenzene, but in 1988 the agency Human Services at http://bit.ly/riskgroupinfo). personal hygiene measures—wearing gloves and
Lion Technology, Inc. 5
bit.ly/p95update. More infor- robenzene is used as a solvent for aches, nausea, sleepiness, numbness, provided comments to OSHA (see The Public Health Agency of Canada describes handwashing, for example—are necessary before RAECO Rents LLC 19
mation on standard respirator some pesticide formulations, as a and vomiting. However, the workers http://bit.ly/nioshappendixd) ques- Risk Group 1 microorganisms as posing a low risk and after using biological degreasing stations. RJ Lee Group 19
testing procedures is avail- degreaser, and as a chemical inter- may also have been exposed to other tioning whether the PEL was adequate to the health of individuals and to public health. The results also showed that workers using these
Inside Back
able from the NIOSH National mediate to make other chemicals. chemicals that could have contributed to protect workers from recognized However, previous research identified a number stations have very low exposure to bioaerosols. SKC Inc.
Cover
Personal Protective Technology Individuals who work where chlo- to or caused these effects. health hazards. of Risk Group 2 bacteria such as Pseudomonas Based on these findings, the authors of the
Laboratory website at http://bit. robenzene is made or used could OSHA’s Permissible Exposure Comments on the draft profile are aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae in biolog- study do not recommend respiratory protection
ly/nioshnpptl. be exposed by breathing air with Limit for chlorobenzene is 75 ppm, due by March 5. More information is ical degreasing station solutions. Risk Group 2 during biological degreasing station use.
chlorobenzene vapors or by spilling or 350 mg/m3, as an eight-hour time- available in the Federal Register at bacteria represent moderate risk to the health IRSST’s full report is available online at http:// See this month’s Product Features on page 35.
or splashing the chemical on their weighted average. The Cal/OSHA PEL http://bit.ly/frchlorobenzene. of individuals and low risk to the community. The bit.ly/biodegreasing.

| February 2020 20 21 www.aiha.org |

 BLOODBORNE
PATHOGENS
Outside of Healthcare Settings
Preventing Exposures to Potentially
Infectious Materials Across Industries

BY EVA M. GLOSSON AND DARIAN W. DISRUD

W
hen reading OSHA’s bloodborne physiologically intended to stay inside a healthily
pathogens (BBP) standard, it’s easy functioning body, outside of semen and vaginal secre-
to visualize a hospital or other med- tions. A common misunderstanding is that feces, urine,
ical setting bustling with nurses and sweat, tears, saliva, and phlegm are OPIM; however,
physicians and the occasional phle- these are all considered biohazards unless visibly
botomist with a cart full of needles contaminated with blood. In addition to body fluids,
and syringes. However, it is impera- unfixed tissues or organs are considered BBP and
tive for industrial hygienists to step back and consider OPIM, along with any medium from any animal that
where BBP and other potentially infectious materials contains human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or
(OPIM) may be present in workplaces outside the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The OSHA standard requires
realm of healthcare. Exposure to BBP with possible employers to have a plan in place for any employees
disease outcomes can dramatically reduce a person’s who have “reasonably anticipated” exposure to BBP.
quality of life due to chronic illness, and it can be fatal. While it would be outside the realm of reasonably
In addition to potential health effects, exposure inci- anticipated exposure to have something like unfixed
dents can also cause disruption in the workplace. An animal tissue unexpectedly come across a conveyor belt
incident can cause significant stress on the exposed at work, there are still plenty of exposures to BBP that
workers and their loved ones during the waiting period are commonly identified but rarely acknowledged as
to determine whether they have contracted a life-alter- exposures that would fall under a regulatory require-
ing illness or disease, and it can reduce morale even for ment. One situation that seems almost universal across
workers who may have had nothing to do with the inci- workplaces is finding contaminated sharps such as
dent. Being unprepared for a BBP exposure incident medical syringes during routine cleaning. Another
can also result in medical bills, time off work, potential common scenario is a worker performing first aid for a
union grievances, and even compliance fines if a seri- peer or cleaning up after a medical event.
ous citation is issued.
DECONTAMINATION AND DISPOSAL
DEFINING BBP AND OPIM Gross contamination cleanup involves significantly
OSHA’s robust definitions of BBP and OPIM essen- more than a few drops of blood from a nosebleed or
tially refer to the fluids inside a person that are scraped knee. Cleaning up after a significant injury
Rose Horridge/Getty Images, CatEyePerspective/Getty Images, kzenon/Getty Images, bee32/Getty Images

| February 2020 22 23 www.aiha.org |

 is frequently destructive. For example, in a home Disposal requirements are dictated at the federal additional examples of workplaces that are often over- for those independent contractors, and no salon owner
environment where a crew needs to clean up a gross level by OSHA’s BBP standard, 29 CFR 1910.130 (and by looked because OSHA specifically excluded animal blood wants an outbreak of a communicable disease. One way
contamination event such as a fatality, the floor may Washington Administrative Code 296-823 in our state, from the BBP standard. In the case of veterinary clinics, to circumvent such a situation may be to include language
need to be pulled up all the way to the subfloor to ensure Washington), but local municipalities and transfer sta- when an employee is stuck by a needle or is bitten or in a business contract that specifies that contractors are
that all BBP and OPIM have been removed and properly tions can have specific requirements on how sharps can scratched by an animal, a BBP hazard is introduced by responsible for maintaining some sort of continuing edu-
decontaminated. While routine gross contamination is be handled at the landfill. Employees must know how to the worker bleeding—not the animal’s blood. If a worker cation or training. Contractors may also be required to
almost unheard of in non-medical workplaces, even small safely handle and dispose of sharps. For example, syringes is trying to give an animal a vaccination and the animal agree to use universal precautions at a minimum to be
droplets of blood can contain pathogens that could harm should not be recapped, and sharps should not be tossed moves suddenly, causing an accidental needlestick to the allowed to lease space. Local cities, licensing agencies, or
a worker. HIV, for example, has a spherical diameter of in the regular trash; instead, sharps should be disposed worker, that sharp is now contaminated and needs to be certification boards may also have training requirements
about 120 nanometers—roughly 60 times smaller than a of in a puncture-resistant and leak-proof container. It’s handled and disposed of properly to prevent anyone else to maintain a professional title, which may include BBP
single red blood cell—and can survive in dried blood for important to note that OSHA’s standard applies to work- from being exposed to human blood. If coworkers clean training.
up to six days at room temperature. Similarly, HBV is a places that have a reasonably anticipated exposure to a up blood after their colleague is injured, it is still an expo- Taking out the trash is a high-risk task that seems
scant 42 nm in diameter and can survive for seven days BBP or OPIM even if no exposure events have occurred. sure to blood and its pathogens. The fact is that bites, universal across industries. Any waste receptacle that the
outside of the body. These examples illustrate how one This means the standard applies to businesses with well scratches, and accidental needlesticks do happen while public can access may be at a higher risk of containing
tiny drop of blood can easily infect a new host if given the recognized exposures outside of healthcare settings, caring for animals, so while OSHA’s standard explicitly sharps than a trash can used only by employees. Workers
opportunity. including in the hospitality industry. excludes animal blood, it does not exclude the industry must be trained on how to properly carry trash to prevent
Though OSHA’s BBP standard specifically mentions from BBP exposure. contact with their body. Many workers will carry trash at
HIV and hepatitis B, they are far from the only pathogens INDUSTRY EXPOSURES Educators, care facility workers, mass transit workers, arm’s length, which creates a potential contact hazard: a
found in blood or OPIM. It’s important to remember that Food service and traditional hospitality industries such and private transit drivers, including those who work for needle poking out of the bag could stick a worker’s leg or
as hotels and motels have strikingly similar exposures a taxi or rideshare service, also have a reasonably antic- torso as the bag swings while the worker walks. A possible
concerning BBP, though there are especially significant ipated exposure to BBP. These professionals may find engineering control to prevent this contact could be using
exposures for hotel staff while cleaning. Both industries contaminated sharps in the workplace or they might find a hard-shelled bin on wheels to transfer waste from the
revolve around customers, and any time members of the themselves in unexpected situations where they may need trash can into the dumpster. Getting employees involved
public interact with a workplace, there is the opportunity to assist someone who requires first aid. This especially with controls and solutions for safe trash handling is a
for individuals to bring a BBP exposure with them. Hotel applies to drivers who take sick or injured passengers to great topic at safety meetings and is an important part of
One situation that seems almost staff are among workers at the highest risk of contact with a
contaminated sharp when cleaning rooms. When working
the hospital or urgent care. Well-documented evidence
also supports increased exposures to BBP in schools and
an exposure control plan.

universal across workplaces is in areas where a contaminated sharp could have fallen, transportation due to workplace violence incidents such BE IN COMPLIANCE

finding contaminated sharps such

especially cracks in furniture or piles of linens, workers as scratching, biting, spitting, or throwing body fluids on Through our work in occupational safety and health com-
should be aware of the risk and have a plan in place for an employee. Workers are also at risk of motor vehicle pliance, we often see exposure trends as emerging hazards

as medical syringes during routine safely dealing with the hazard. OSHA specifically defines
contaminated laundry as laundry that has been soiled
accidents and gun violence in these industries. Many
educators and care professionals will assist those in their
in different industries. In Washington, we communicate
these hazards through publications such as Division

cleaning. with blood or OPIM or may contain sharps. Workers and

their supervisors should be specifically trained on where
charge without a second thought during an emergency;
however, it is imperative that these professionals stop
of Occupational Safety and Health Hazard Alerts and
through our consultation services. Finding BBP hazards in
sharps could be found hiding in their workplace and how to and use universal precautions before dealing with blood workplaces is becoming common and is recognized across
respond to a needlestick event. or OPIM. They must be trained on how they are expected many industries. The best ways to be in compliance are
Adult entertainment is not often discussed in occupa- to interact with blood or OPIM when situations arise, reflected in citation data: using a sharps container, iden-
tional safety and health settings; however, this workplace they must be offered the hepatitis B vaccination before an tifying who needs to be offered a hepatitis B vaccination,
the standard reflects the science and technology that was has many of the same exposures as the hospitality exposure happens, and they must be trained on what per- training workers, and having a written program. A good
accessible to workplaces when the standard was promul- industry. The worksite typically has low lighting and soft sonal protective equipment to wear and where to find it. place to start is to read the regulation on OSHA’s website
gated in 1991. As advances in vaccinations and pathology seating, which could easily disguise BBP hazards. While Estheticians, salon workers, and body modification at http://bit.ly/oshabbp, but don’t forget that state
continue, the standard could change to reflect additional there are strict codes of conduct, semen has been found on artists have BBP hazards in their workplaces as well. For plans may be more stringent than federal OSHA and you
protections that may be appropriate to mandate in the various surfaces in clubs during compliance inspections, example, there is potential for a barber to accidentally must comply with the state plan as it applies. Taking the
workplace. and semen is considered an OPIM. Depending on the laws nick or cut a client. Workers who perform microblading time to assess where a worker could interact with a BBP
In addition to decontamination, proper disposal is par- in the city where the club operates, there could also be facials and apply permanent cosmetics face the same hazard and setting up controls to prevent the interaction
amount to reducing exposures and keeping both workers exposure to OPIM via vaginal secretions on dancing sur- exposures as traditional tattoo artists and piercers, who from happening in the first place can prevent a serious
and the public safe. Disposal of potentially contaminated faces such as poles, especially if full nudity is permitted. have a more obvious exposure to blood since these ser- occupational disease from ruining a worker’s life.
waste, including sharps or saturated towels used during Exposure is especially concerning when non-intact skin vices must penetrate the dermis, where blood vessels
cleanup, is becoming a bigger issue in workplaces that creates a pathway for pathogens to enter the body such as reside, to get the desired effect. The use of gloves seems EVA M. GLOSSON, MS, is an industrial hygiene compliance
interact with the public. Due to the opioid epidemic and through small scratches and scrapes. Dancers may have to be very common in the tattoo and piercing industry, supervisor at the Washington State Department of Labor
homelessness crises across the United States, employers ample opportunity for exposure to BBP or OPIM. Aspects but the use of other PPE such as aprons, glasses, face & Industries, Division of Occupational Safety and Health in
must now identify and control how workers are expected to of their job that have the potential to create injuries shields, or masks appears to be specified by the artists Seattle. She can be reached at glof235@lni.wa.gov.
interact with the sharps likely to be found in the workplace that would create an infection pathway include personal themselves. These types of businesses often follow the
DARIAN W. DISRUD, BS, is an industrial hygiene compli-
in trash receptacles, parking lots, public restrooms, and on grooming, theatrical outfits and costumes with sequins or “salon model,” where the workers performing services in
ance officer at the Washington State Department of Labor
sidewalks. Improper disposal of sharps leads to increased gemstones that may scratch or otherwise abrade skin, and a business are independent contractors who rent space & Industries, Division of Occupational Safety and Health in
exposures and potential needlesticks further down the tall shoes not designed for long periods of mobility that from the business owner, traditionally with contracts Seattle.
waste stream and can especially affect members of the can pose a trip or fall hazard. and rules of conduct to work in the space. The owner of
public and sanitation workers. Veterinary clinics and other animal care facilities are the space is still expected to maintain a safe workplace Send feedback to synergist@aiha.org.

| February 2020 24 25 www.aiha.org |

 Protecting Workers
in Locations with
Difficult Access
BY ANDREY KORCHEVSKIY,
SERGEY ANTIPOV, ANDREY KARPOV,
AND DARYA ANTIPOVA

REMOTE
Industrial Hygiene:
R
emote operations are typical for various industries
around the world. Personal communications indicate
that interest in remote industrial hygiene is growing
among occupational hygienists, who are contributing
to scientific discussions about occupational health
and safety at remote sites and designing practical solutions.
Remote industrial hygiene approaches and solutions are
suitable for a significant number of workers involved in oil
and gas operations, mining facilities, crews for ships and
planes, scientific expeditions and explorers, among others.
contamination of the marine environment from the under-
ground nuclear tests conducted on Amchitka Island from
1965 through 1971. CRESP researcher Michael Gochfeld
and co-authors published a landmark paper in the Journal
of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene in 2006 that
described approaches to developing a health and safety plan
for this interesting study. The paper emphasized that the
remoteness of the expedition and the diversity of activities
imposed some unusual challenges.
The specific health hazards encountered during the

Emerging Challenges,
For these activities, as a rule, the workforce should be sup- Amchitka Island project included unusual factors, like cold
plied with specific healthcare options, including evacuation water diving, extreme weather, elevated exposure levels
potential and telemedicine. for chemicals and physical factors (such as radiation “hot

Promising Solutions FIELD WORK IN REMOTE AREAS

In 2004, the Consortium for Risk Evaluation with Stake-
spots”), and others. These hazards are much less predictable
than those typically encountered in manufacturing work-
places, for example. The project team stressed the need to
holder Participation, or CRESP, conducted a research count on local resources and expertise in resolving health
expedition for the Department of Energy in remote areas of and safety issues. Despite the comprehensive preparation
the western Aleutian Islands to study possible radiological phase, several injuries occurred during the course of the

Theerapong28/Getty Images 27 www.aiha.org |

 project, though none were severe. The JOEH paper con- • remote occupational hygiene and safety training risk score, one of the predictors of cardiovascular disease.) THE FUTURE OF REMOTE INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE
cluded that operations in remote areas were a growing • remote monitoring of workplace conditions Risk assessment is needed to quantify various contributing Remote industrial hygiene should significantly benefit from
challenge facing the industrial hygiene profession. • remote auditing of health and safety management systems factors and determine the most effective measures to pre- future technological developments. For example, wear-
Some of the resources developed for remote healthcare vent the need for medical evacuations at remote locations. able devices and “smart clothing” can provide ergonomics
SYNERGISM WITH REMOTE HEALTHCARE can be used for the purposes of remote industrial hygiene. assessments and send information about the risk of muscu-
The term “remote healthcare” was reportedly coined by Dr. For example, “telemedicine” involves satellite communica- ASSESSING RISKS AT REMOTE SITES loskeletal injuries to central servers in real time. Unmanned
Max House when he was the only neurologist responsible tion and modern computer servers to establish connections Though risk assessment theory and practice have been in aerial systems could help with the collection of information
for the vast remote areas of Newfoundland and Labrador in between hospitals and remote sites. The same technology development for many decades already, understanding of about environmental and occupational hazards at remote
the mid-1970s. Later, Dr. Nelson Norman from Aberdeen can be used to help industrial hygienists stay in continuous this methodology is still not uniform among experts and locations. Also, artificial intelligence can be an effective tool
University formulated five priorities of effective remote communication with locations that would be difficult to visit practitioners. However, more facilities internationally are in the remote recognition and interpretation of hazardous
healthcare systems devised for workers at risk so they could on a regular basis. using risk assessment to deal with complex and emerging behavior and potentially dangerous health and safety situ-
care for themselves to cover the “vital time interval” in occupational health problems. Remote sites seem to be an ations. In particular, the remote monitoring of workers to
emergency situations. Those priorities are: RUSSIA: WHERE EVERYTHING IS REMOTE important area where the most current health risk assess- ensure that they’re wearing personal protective equipment
• first aid training It is useful to evaluate how the international community is ment techniques could be tested because of the numerous can be performed through computer vision- and image
• a sophisticated system of communication (“telemedicine”) dealing with new initiatives in the areas of remote healthcare challenges at these locations that can be resolved only by analysis-driven systems. Development of analytical real-time
• a medical coordinating system and remote industrial hygiene. The Russian Federation is a collaboration between industrial hygienists and occupa- monitors for detecting hazardous substances—one of AIHA’s
• appropriate evacuation systems good example because of its vast territory. The population tional physicians. content priorities—also will bring additional opportunities
• auditing and research density in the Asian part of Russia is 1.9 people per square Especially important is to view risk assessment as a to control the occupational environment at remote sites and
For many reasons, industrial hygiene risk assessment kilometer, far lower than in the United States (35 per km2) process, not just an isolated study with narrow targets. For to reduce health risks for workers. These developments sug-
and activities should be added to this widely accepted list and the European Union (119 per km2). More than 800,000 companies whose workers are situated at remote locations, gest that as remote healthcare continues to progress, remote
of priorities. Industrial hygiene plays a critical role in com- workers in Russia are employed in the natural resources we recommend implementing an annual risk assessment industrial hygiene won’t be left behind.
bination with healthcare systems. Instead of reacting to sector, a significant number of them in remote areas. cycle covering diverse hazards, including workplace agents
emergencies, industrial hygiene allows for the anticipation, The first independent organization dealing with health- along with personal exposome, lifestyle, and behavioral ANDREY KORCHEVSKIY, PhD, DABT, CIH, is director of
recognition, evaluation, and control of various hazards, care at remote sites, the Center of Corporate Medicine, or parameters. The risk assessment procedure should cover Research & Development at Chemistry and Industrial
and proactive prevention of adverse emergency events that CCM, was created in 2006 in the Russian city of Tomsk, the usual steps, including hazard identification, exposure Hygiene, Inc., in Wheat Ridge, Colo.
would require immediate medical interventions or evacu- situated 2,266 miles from Moscow. In 2016, with the active assessment, dose-response assessment, and risk char-
SERGEY ANTIPOV, MD, PhD, is general director of the
ations. Therefore, occupational risk assessment for remote support of the Institute of Remote Health Care (Aberdeen, acterization. It is important, however, to transition from
Center of Corporate Medicine in Tomsk, Russian Federation.
locations should be performed before and during opera- Scotland), the Remote Healthcare Association was founded qualitative and semi-quantitative ways of evaluating risks to
tional activities, and the results of the assessment should be in Russia. These initiatives provided remote sites with more consistent quantitative approaches. ANDREY KARPOV, MD, PhD, is president of the Remote
communicated to the facilities and medical professionals. effective healthcare services, including a 24/7 call center, Consider a worker at a remote site who would be exposed Healthcare Association in Tomsk, Russian Federation.
Remote industrial hygiene, in turn, can be associated evacuation resources, and training for professionals. to crystalline silica at the level of 0.05 mg/m3 (95th per-
with the following priorities: Comparing the reasons for medical evacuations from a centile of exposure distribution) for five years (the average DARYA ANTIPOVA, MBChB, MSc, PhD, is a researcher at
• risk assessment as a basis for effective preventive and representative set of facilities in Russia with those in other employment duration) during the shifts that accounted for the University of Aberdeen and specialty doctor at the
health-improving programs countries can help illustrate industrial hygiene priorities for 30 percent of her total annual work time. Her excess risk National Health Service in Highland, United Kingdom.
• use of advanced communication systems to observe and remote sites. Table 1 presents the number of evacuations by of lung cancer can reach 40 cases per 10,000 per lifetime
evaluate the situation illness type for the offshore oil and gas industry from three (an average of various dose-response models selected by Send feedback to synergist@aiha.org.
sources: published data for Shell International (130 cases of OSHA). We can interpret this value in many ways. For
medical evacuation for 2008‒2012), Medevac data for Aber- example, we might recommend additional workplace air
Table 1. Comparison of Top Five Diagnostic Groups for Medical Evacua-
deen, Scotland operations (99 cases for 2008‒2012), and quality control measures for risk exceeding 1 x 10-3 and
tion (Percentage of All Cases)*
data for CCM clients in Russia (704 cases for 2018‒2019). development of an individual health improvement and pre-
Diagnoses Shell Interna- Aberdeen oil Evacuations As shown in Table 1, a high percentage of evacuations ventive program for risk exceeding 1 x 10-4. If this person, RESOURCES
from Russian remote sites were due to cardiac diagnoses however, smoked one pack of cigarettes per day for 15 years, Annals of Occupational Hygiene: “Unmanned Aerial Systems in Occupational Hygiene—Learning from Allied
tional workers, and gas in Russia
(n=130) operations, (n=704) Disciplines” (October 2015).
(more than four times higher than for Shell workers, accord- her excess risk of lung cancer from smoking, based on var-
2008 – 2012 U.K. (n=99) 2018 – 2019 ing to published information). This disproportion can be ious estimations, would be around 400 cases per 10,000 Canadian Medical Association Journal: “Telecommunications in Health and Education” (March 1981).
2008 – 2012
evidence of the lack of efficiency in preventive medical evalu- per lifetime. By quitting smoking for five years, she would Journal of the Institute of Remote Health Care: “Development of Competent, Remote Healthcare Practitioners”
Musculoskeletal 12.3 15.2 ations for Russian workers. These evaluations are mandatory reduce her risk approximately by a factor of 2. (July 2016).
Trauma 17.7 7.1 12.6 in Russia but are often disconnected from monitoring of This information is useful for preparation of individual Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene: “Developing a Health and Safety Plan for Hazardous Field
Cardiac 10.8 40.2 workplace conditions. risk assessments and recommendations for workers and Work in Remote Areas” (December 2006).
The factors that contribute to cardiac emergencies in should inform the pre-deployment health evaluation for the Journal of Travel Medicine: “Medical Evacuations in the Oil and Gas Industry: A Retrospective Review with
Digestive 13.8 19.2 5.3
Russian workers at remote sites should be addressed by remote workforce. For example, regular checklists can be Implications for Future Evacuation and Preventative Strategies” (May 2017).
Neurological 8.5 5.5 both occupational physicians and industrial hygienists. recommended for workers who have specific risk factors and Oman Medical Journal: “Shift Work and the Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases and Metabolic Syndrome among
Urological 11.1 6.3 Psychological stress is one of the contributing hazards, and risk levels to facilitate regular assessment of early symptoms Jordanian Employees” (May 2018).
Respiratory 10.1 shift work—typical for remote operations—is a risk factor for of unwanted health conditions. Industrial hygienists and
Provectus: “Worker Safety in Construction,” http://bit.ly/provectusconstruction.
cardiovascular disease. (A study of Jordanian workers pub- occupational physicians can be involved in telecommunica-
Sociedad Colombiana de Higienistas Ocupacionales: “Advances in the Collection and Analysis of Data on
*Sources include the authors’ own data and data published in “Medical Evacuations in the Oil and Gas lished in the Oman Medical Journal in 2018 found that the tion with the sites, and they should have access to the risk
Injury Risks: Bio-Ergo Technology,” Sixth National Occupational Hygiene Day (presentation by Anthony
Industry: A Retrospective Review with Implications for Future Evacuation and Preventative Strategies,” which duration of night shifts and the number of night shifts per assessment information so they can fully understand the
N. Harris, September 2019).
appeared in the May 2017 issue of the Journal of Travel Medicine. month significantly increased workers’ Framingham 30-year workers’ health challenges.

| February 2020 28 29 www.aiha.org |

 C
ombustible dust explosions have long been a recognized hazard

A New
in many industries, including agriculture, mining, power gen-
eration, and food processing. The United States Chemical
Safety and Hazard Investigation Board conducted a study of

Tool dust explosion incidents between 1980 and 2005, which iden-
tified 281 incidents that killed 119 workers and injured 718. In 2006, CSB
issued a formal recommendation to OSHA to promulgate a comprehen-

for Preventing sive combustible dust standard, based in part on NFPA 654, Standard for
the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing,

Combustible
Processing, and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids.

In 2007, OSHA issued Instruction CPL 03-00-006, vessel or silo, which traditionally would be considered con-

Dust
“Combustible Dust National Emphasis Program,” and fined spaces.
reissued the NEP in 2008 in response to a combustible The OSHA confined spaces standard for general industry
dust explosion at a sugar refinery. Two years later, OSHA (29 CFR 1910.146) defines a hazardous atmosphere with
published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking respect to airborne combustible dust as “at a concentration
for Combustible Dust, in which the agency sought input that meets or exceeds its LFL” (lower flammable limit), and
on issues related to the hazards of combustible dust in the further states that “this concentration may be approximated

Incidents
workplace in preparation for developing a combustible dust as a condition in which the dust obscures vision at a distance
standard. In its own study of the NEP for combustible dusts, of 5 feet (1.52 meters) or less.” How murky must one’s vision
OSHA discovered that its inspectors cited the Occupational be to be “obscured”? Merriam-Webster defines “obscure,” in
Safety and Health Act’s General Duty Clause almost seven the context of vision, as “dark, dim; shrouded in or hidden
times as often for combustible dust-related citations than by darkness; not clearly seen or easily distinguished.” If I
for all other citations, which underscored the need for a were in a confined space with a potential combustible dust
combustible dust standard. Unfortunately, under the current hazard, these definitions would not provide me much com-
administration, which campaigned to reduce “burdensome” fort in determining whether the concentration of dust was

Standard Requires regulations on industry, OSHA removed the combustible

dust standard from its regulatory agenda, citing “resource
approaching the explosive range.
Then along comes the publication of the 2019 edition of

Completion of a Dust constraints and other priorities.” NFPA 652, Standard on the Fundamentals of Combustible
Dust. The National Fire Protection Association has published

Hazard Analysis THE DUST EXPLOSION PENTAGON

Historically, one of the difficulties in controlling combustible
other commodity-specific standards for combustible dusts,
including NFPA 484, which addresses combustible metals;

by September
or explosive dust hazards is defining exactly what constitutes NFPA 61, which addresses agricultural and food processing
a combustible or explosible dust atmosphere. Five elements facilities; NFPA 664 for wood processing and woodworking
are needed for a combustible dust explosion to occur: fuel facilities; and NFPA 655 for the prevention of sulfur fires
(combustible dust), an ignition source (a flame, spark, or hot and explosions. While these commodity-specific standards
BY RUSH BOWERS surface), an oxidizer (air, oxygen), dust dispersion in air, and are still in effect, NFPA 652 was designed to provide the gen-
confinement. These five elements are known as the “dust eral requirements for management of combustible dust fire
explosion pentagon”; without any one of them, an explosion and explosion hazards, and to provide consistency among
will not occur. Confinement may be in the form of four walls the various industries, processes, and types of combustible
and a roof, as in the case of a process building, or a process dusts.
Srinuan Hirunwat/Getty Images

| February 2020 30 31 www.aiha.org |

 Dust Clouds, or ASTM E1515, Standard Test Method for defined as a confined or partially confined volume. The DHA
The Dust Explosion Pentagon Minimum Explosible Concentration of Combustible Dusts. must assess the fire, deflagration, and explosion hazards in
The ASTM E1226 test simply determines whether a sample each facility compartment, and provide specific recommen-
of dust has the potential to be explosive, and the ASTM dations to manage those hazards. In general, the DHA must
FUEL 1 IGNITION
2 SOURCE E1515 test determines the minimum concentration for explo- identify and evaluate the process or facility areas where fire,
combustible
dust sivity of a dust cloud. So, an owner or operator of a facility in flash fire, and explosion hazards exist; where those hazards
a flame, spark,
which potentially combustible dusts are handled or stored are present, the DHA must identify specific scenarios that
or hot surface
is now directed to define the minimum concentration of the may give rise to a fire and deflagration. The evaluation of fire
dust suspended in air that could lead to a deflagration. and deflagration scenarios must include the identification
As discussed, the current OSHA confined space standard of safe operating ranges, the safeguards that are in place to
defines a hazardous atmosphere with respect to combusti- manage those fire and explosion scenarios, and recommen-
ble dust at a concentration that meets or exceeds its lower dations for additional controls, including an implementation
explosive limit. With NFPA 652, the owner or operator of a plan.
confined space containing combustible dust, such as a grain Where combustible dust is present or potentially present
in a process system, each part of the system must be evalu-
OXIDIZER
5 3 air, oxygen ated for the potential to transport dust between parts of the
system, the potential for fugitive dust to enter a building or
CONFINEMENT
One of the difficulties in building compartments, and the potential for deflagration
propagation between parts of the process system. To be con-

controlling combustible or sidered a fire hazard, an oxidizing atmosphere and a credible

ignition source must be present. Where a sufficient quantity

4
DUST DISPERSION explosive dust hazards is of combustible dust is present to propagate a deflagration,
the addition of a credible suspension mechanism, such as
in the air
defining exactly what vibration or air movement, constitutes a dust deflagration
hazard.

One of the objectives of the standard is to prevent injury handles. Chapter 5 of the standard, “Hazard Identification,”
constitutes a combustible THE BEST HOPE
from explosions through the design, construction, and
maintenance of facilities, processes, and equipment and
requires the owner or operator to determine whether the
materials are combustible or explosible and, if so, to “char-
or explosible dust In October 2018, a CSB study of combustible dust incidents
found that an average of 9.5 incidents per year occurred
the implementation of management systems. The standard
directly addresses confinement, one of the necessary ele-
acterize their properties” in support of the development of
a DHA. NFPA 652 permits two options for determining the
atmosphere. during the period 2006 through 2017, a slight improvement
on the annual average of 11 incidents the agency identified
ments for a combustible dust explosion according to the combustibility or explosibility of dust: the use of historical or during 1980–2005. But the hazard clearly remains. Unless
dust explosion pentagon. NFPA 652 defines an enclosure published data, or the analysis of representative samples of mill, for example, must now define the actual concentration and until OSHA promulgates a combustible dust standard,
as a “confined or partially confined volume.” When a com- the dust in question. of that dust that may cause an explosion. This information the NFPA 652 requirement for a Dust Hazard Analysis is
bustible dust ignites in a confined area, pressure may build There is already much published data with respect could then be used in confined space situations to more perhaps the best hope for prevention of future combustible
until the structure of the space fails, resulting in the sudden to the combustibility of various types of dusts. OSHA clearly define the level of hazard from airborne combustible dust incidents.
release of pressure, which may result in the resuspension of published a combustible dust poster (PDF, http://bit. dusts, which is a huge improvement from the “obscures
dust in the air and secondary explosions. ly/comdustposter) that identifies 67 agricultural prod- vision at a distance of 5 feet” definition. In the case of poten- RUSH BOWERS, CIH, CSP, is senior industrial hygiene
ucts or dusts, 12 carbonaceous dusts, 14 chemical dusts, tially explosive gas or vapor scenarios in confined spaces, consultant at Terracon Consultants Inc. in Midvale, Utah.
THE DUST HAZARD ANALYSIS DEFINED 5 metal dusts, and 18 plastic dusts that, if processed OSHA defines a hazardous atmosphere at a gas or vapor He can be reached at jrbowers@terracon.com.
Central to NFPA 652 is the requirement for owners or in powdered form, pose a hazard of combustible dust concentration in excess of 10 percent of its lower flammable
operators of facilities with potentially combustible dust explosion. More specific information about more than limit, implying a safety factor of 10 from the actual explosive Send feedback to synergist@aiha.org.
to conduct a Dust Hazard Analysis. A DHA is intended to 7,000 combustible dusts is available from the Institute concentration. So, even if the concentration of dust that may
determine combustibility hazards; identify and assess fire, for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social give rise to an explosion in a confined space is known, the
flash fire, and explosion hazards; manage those hazards; Accident Insurance, which developed a database of the definition of combustible dust in OSHA’s Confined Spaces
and communicate the hazards to affected personnel. In the combustion and explosion characteristics of dusts, also standard fails to adequately protect confined space entrants RESOURCES
written discussion of the origin and development of NFPA known as the GESTIS-DUST-EX database. This database from explosion hazards, as there is no safety factor built into Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board: Combustible Dust Safety, http://bit.ly/csbcomdustsafety.
652, facility owners’ and operators’ lack of awareness of provides information about a particular dust’s particle the definition. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board: “Dust Incidents, 2006–2017,” http://bit.ly/dustincidents
combustible dust hazards was the driving force in establish- size, explosibility class (based on the rate of pressure Once a dust is determined to be explosible or combusti- (PDF, October 2018).
ing the DHA as a fundamental step in creating a plan for rise), and minimum ignition energy. The database does ble, the owner or operator is required to perform a DHA. The Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance: GESTIS-DUST-EX,
safeguarding facilities that handle, store, or process combus- not, however, provide the Minimum Explosible Concen- DHA is the real meat of NFPA 652: it requires an owner or http://bit.ly/gestisdatabase.
tible dusts. The standard sets a deadline of Sept. 7, 2020, for tration (MEC) of the dusts, a piece of data that could be operator, now armed with information that the dusts they National Fire Protection Association: NFPA 652, Standard on the Fundamentals of Combustible Dust (2019).
completion of the DHA. invaluable in determining whether an explosion hazard process are potentially explosive, to dive further into their
OSHA: Combustible Dust, http://bit.ly/comdustposter (PDF).
NFPA 652 provides some clarity on the issue of defin- actually exists in a given situation. operations to identify parts of the process that are vulnerable
ing a combustible dust atmosphere, in the sense that it According to NFPA 652, if the owner or operator chooses to dust fires or explosions. Chapter 7 of NFPA 652 describes OSHA: Combustible Dust National Emphasis Program, http://bit.ly/comdustnep (2007).
requires the owner or operator of a facility with potentially the testing option, explosibility of the dust may be deter- the DHA process, which is required for all new processes OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Standards, General Environmental Controls, Permit-required Confined
combustible dust to, among other things, determine the mined either by the “go/no-go” screening test methods in and facility “compartments.” A compartment is defined in Spaces, http://bit.ly/confinedspacesstandard.
combustibility and explosibility hazards of the materials it ASTM E1226, Standard Test Method for Explosibility of the standard as a subdivision of an enclosure, which itself is

| February 2020 32 33 www.aiha.org |

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35 www.aiha.org |
 COMMUNITY COMMUNITY

NEW ORGANIZATION SEEKS TO

CEC Accepting Membership Applications AIHA Accolades
AIHA is now accepting applications professional development courses, 18, 2020. Prospective volunteers are
Congratulations to Lauralynn Taylor

IMPROVE HEALTH AND SAFETY

for positions on the Continuing or PDCs. In addition to providing asked to provide a current resume or
McKernan, ScD, CIH, who was
Education Committee. The CEC review of the PDCs offered at AIHce CV and fill out an application listing
recently appointed the new director of
comprises 12 members who serve EXP, CEC members are also asked their experience, knowledge, and

FOR VOLUNTEERS
the NIOSH Division of Field Studies and
four one-year terms. The CEC’s mis- to audit new educational offerings, primary areas of interest. The appli-
Engineering. According to the agency’s
sion is to ensure quality educational which provides an opportunity for cation is available online at http://
e-newsletter (see http://bit.ly/niosh
opportunities that broaden knowl- them to earn CM hours at no cost. bit.ly/aihacecapplication. For more
enewsjan2020), McKernan has held
edge, enhance technical competen- Selection of new CEC members information, email Erin Breece, CEC
BY JACK GEISSERT
numerous leadership positions in the
cies, and provide industrial hygien- will be completed in the spring, and staff liaison, at ebreece@aiha.org
former NIOSH Division of Surveillance,
ists with practical tools and skills. terms will begin with AIHce EXP or visit the committee web page at
Hazard Evaluation, and Field Studies and
Technical Frameworks The CEC provides one of the levels 2020 in Atlanta, Ga. http://bit.ly/aihacecinfo.
the former Education and Information

S
Available on AIHA.org of technical peer review of AIHA’s Applications are due by March
Division. McKernan has written for The
4NP-Safety For NonProf- well-defined parameters, to nonprof- Most nonprofits are cash-strapped
AIHA’s Technical Frameworks Synergist on multiple occasions. Most
its is a start-up project its in their local communities. These and focused on their stated missions,
define the core knowledge and
that seeks to support services are not intended to replace and they don’t know how to address
Vote in the 2020 AIHA Board Election recently, she coauthored the article
skills required from an individ- “The ‘Bandits’ Speak” (available online
nonprofit organizations’ services available from fee-for-ser- workplace safety and health matters. From Feb. 15 to March 6, AIHA mem- election will be emailed to members than Friday, Feb. 21, to be counted
ual for effective performance at http://bit.ly/banditsspeak), which
efforts to improve workplace safety vice consultants, OSHA consultation, S4NP seeks to establish professional bers will vote in the 2020 AIHA Board this month. in the election.
in specific practices or areas of discussed NIOSH’s proposed occupa-
and health in their operations. More or workers’ compensation insurance liability insurance for the S4NP advis- of Directors election. AIHA has part- Members had until Jan. 22 More information about the
expertise. These frameworks tional exposure banding process.
than 60 million volunteers and 11 carriers. ers who deliver pro bono services to nered with eBallot to provide a safe, to submit a request for a paper candidates for the 2020 election is
are widely used by professionals
million employees work in nonprofit Many health and safety profession- nonprofits. secure web-based voting system ballot. The paper ballot will be available on page 13 of this issue.
seeking to expand or refresh
organizations across the United als are already volunteering in our The S4NP team is quickly and during this year’s election cycle. mailed by early February and must Please email questions to AIHA
their knowledge or skills.
States. Studies from NIOSH (http:// local communities at food pantries, steadily advancing this project to the Instructions on how to vote in the be returned postmarked no later staff at nominations@aiha.org. In Memoriam
Technical Frameworks may also
bit.ly/mmwrfatal93-02) and the U.S. youth groups, and other charities. We next stage by developing operational
be used to develop new training William H. Weems, Sr., DrPH, CIH,
Bureau of Labor Statistics (http:// can’t help but see hazards at these and financial procedures and filing
programs within an organiza-
bit.ly/blsfatal03-07) disclose that, operations and know they can be the paperwork to incorporate as a New Credential for Product Stewardship Announced CSP, FAIHA, passed away on Dec.
tion. AIHA has published Techni- 10, 2019, at the age of 77. Weems was
on average, one volunteer dies every made safer and better for volunteers 501(c)(3) nonprofit. S4NP staff are In November, the Board for Global The pathway to the CPPS cre- Kathleen S. Murphy, CIH. “Product
cal Frameworks in the following director emeritus of UA SafeState at
week while performing volunteer and employees. People who volunteer interested to learn about AIHA mem- EHS Credentialing (BGC) and the dential consists of rigorous educa- stewards will have a distinct metric
areas: indoor air quality and the University of Alabama. In 2005, he
work for nonprofits. Some nonprofits and give back to their communities bers’ experiences with nonprofit work, Product Stewardship Society tion and experience requirements, against which to assess their pro-
indoor environmental quality; became the first recipient of OSHA’s
are proactive and have effective work- shouldn’t get hurt when doing good. and welcome volunteers who wish announced the collaborative devel- along with passing an exam. The first fessional abilities and expertise in
emergency preparedness and William J. Higgins Award, the agency’s
place safety and health programs and Our experience shows that deliver- to help advance the S4NP initiative. opment of a new product steward- CPPS exam window will take place this fast-growing field.”
response for the industrial first national award for safety excel-
practices, but most nonprofits “don’t ing informational and educational Contact the S4NP team at s4np2020@ ship credential: the Certified Pro- in mid-2020. The CPPS application For more information, see the
hygienist; respiratory protection lence in the small business community.
know what they don’t know.” workshops to leaders at nonprofits gmail.com. fessional Product Steward. CPPS will be free of charge for the first Product Stewardship Society’s press
programs; business value He became an AIHA Fellow in 2008.
The goal of S4NP is to enable opens the door to conversations and Jack Geissert, CIH, is the founder will allow product stewardship year’s applicants. release at http://bit.ly/cppsnews or
presentation; exposure risk Further highlights of Weems’ career in
our fellow professionals to deliver actions to address workplace safety and president of Safety For NonProf- professionals to distinguish their “As president of AIHA and a prod- visit BGC’s website, https://ehscre
assessment/management; and occupational health and safety can be
pro bono advisory services, within and health. its, Inc. expertise and build professional uct steward myself, I believe this dentialing.org/cpps.
occupational exposure banding found on ACGIH’s website at http://
credibility within their organizations. credential is game-changing,” said
process. bit.ly/acgihweems. His obituary
AIHA’s Technical Frameworks
Apply for the AIHA Distinguished Lecturer Program was published in Tuscaloosa News and
are available for free via AIHA. is available online at http://bit.ly/
org. For more information
AIHA invites new applications for its Distinguished Lec- of their applications. For more information or to access Dates and Deadlines williamweems.
turer Program, which focuses on providing lectures to the online application form, visit the program web page
on AIHA’s Frameworks, or to the industrial hygiene community and to AIHA's outreach at http://bit.ly/aihadlprogram. FEB. 15–MARCH 6 MARCH 9–13 APRIL 9
download these resources, visit partners on national and international occupational and A complete list of individuals participating in AIHA’s Vote in the 2020 AIHA Board of Direc- Comprehensive Industrial Hygiene AIHA webinar: “The Ear Poisons: An
http://bit.ly/aiha environmental health issues that affect the practice of Distinguished Lecturer Program is also available online. tors election. Review course in Ann Arbor, Mich. Introduction to Ototoxicants.” Visit Volunteer Opportunities
frameworks. industrial hygiene. Lecturers are listed together with the topics on which Co-sponsored by the Michigan http://bit.ly/aihawebinars.
Are you interested in serving as a leader
The program is hosted by the AIHA Fellows SIG and they’re prepared to present. These experts are located FEB. 27 Industrial Hygiene Society. Visit
within AIHA? AIHA posts volunteer
features prominent experts in industrial hygiene who are throughout the U.S. and Canada, and the Distinguished AIHA webinar: “Asbestos and http://bit.ly/cihrmarch2020. JUNE 1–3
opportunities for members to serve in
prepared to lecture on recent research, new developments, Lecturer Program enables AIHA local sections and other Nanoparticles: Using Benchmark AIHce EXP 2020 in Atlanta, Ga. Visit
various leadership capacities through-
and topics of interest that affect workplace safety and the interested groups to connect with and learn from experts in Dose Methodology for Risk Assess- MARCH 18 www.aihce2020.org.
out the year at http://bit.ly/aiha
environment. the field of industrial hygiene by scheduling presentations ment.” Visit http://bit.ly/asbestos Deadline to apply for a position on
opencalls. Please email questions
The review process for the Distinguished Lecturer at local, regional, or international meetings. Please visit webinar. AIHA’s Continuing Education Com- For a complete list of events, visit
about getting involved with AIHA to
Program occurs throughout the year. Applicants will be AIHA's website at http://bit.ly/aihadlprogram to learn mittee. Visit http://bit.ly/aihacec www.aiha.org/calendar.
infonet@aiha.org.
notified by the end of each quarter regarding the status more about the program. info.

| February 2020 36 37 www.aiha.org |

 BY THE NUMBERS

WILDFIRE CONSEQUENCES
In December, as the world turned its attention to the bushfires ravaging Australia, the U.S.
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine published a report on an earlier
disaster: the California wildfires of 2017 and 2018. The report summarizes the presentations
From “Implications of the California given at a workshop that discussed the implications of the California wildfires, including poten-
Wildfires for Health, Communities, tial health effects, the difficulties of recovery operations, and ideas for improving responses to
and Preparedness: Proceedings of wildfires. The contamination of local drinking water systems from wildfires was a point of em-
a Workshop”: phasis. Information from the report appears below.
“Wildfires are creating a new
model of a public health crisis….
Wildfires are intensive and
unplanned long-term events Estimated percentage of

8
that pose complex and wide- excess lung cancer and LUNG
ranging problems. Population cardiovascular disease
growth, climate change, weather risk, respectively, from
exposure to particulate

16
extremes, intermittent droughts, matter in smoke for fire- CARDIOVASCULAR
record rains, and other factors fighters with a five-year
are interacting in ways that are working career.
difficult to dissect, understand,
and ameliorate. Earthquakes,
mudslides, urban unrest, and Estimated percentage of
other issues are usually here
and then gone…. In contrast,
excess lung cancer and
cardiovascular disease
LUNG
43
large wildfires can go on for long risk, respectively, from
exposure to particulate

30
periods of time and have wide- matter in smoke for fire- CARDIOVASCULAR
ranging and long-lasting impacts fighters with a 25-year
across large areas.” working career.

40,000
13 Number of people
who received a
2,200
RESOURCE boil-water advisory Benzene concentration, in
Number of water stemming from the parts per billion, measured
National Academies of Sciences,
systems affected Camp Fire. in the Paradise, Calif., water
Engineering, and Medicine:
by the 2018 Camp system in January 2019.
“Implications of the California According to the California
Fire in California.
Wildfires for Health, Communities, Office of Environmental
and Preparedness,” http://bit.ly/ Health Hazard Assessment,
cawildfiresnas (December 2019). 26 to 1,000 ppb of benzene
poses an acute risk to
children.

| February 2019 38
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