Eric Esswein - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Eric Esswein

Research paper thumbnail of Occupational Health and Safety Aspects of Oil and Gas Extraction

Environmental and Health Issues in Unconventional Oil and Gas Development, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Health hazard evaluation report HETA 95-0023-2531, American Azide Corporation, Cedar City, Utah

In response to a confidential request, an investigation was begun into possible exposures to sodi... more In response to a confidential request, an investigation was begun into possible exposures to sodium-azide and hydrazoic-acid at the American Azide Corporation (SIC-5169), Cedar City, Utah. Personal breathing zone samples indicated that concentrations of sodium-azide ranged up to 1.7mg/m3. Hydrazoic-acid levels ranged up to 1.1 parts per million (ppm). Sodium-azide levels exceeded the NIOSH recommended exposure level (REL) of 0.3mg/m3 in 28% of the samples and hydrazoic-acid exceeded the REL of 0.1ppm in 14% of the samples. On one occasion the air sample taken inside a supplied air helmet showed a hydrazoic-acid level of 0.13ppm which was greater than the 0.05ppm level recorded from samples on the worker`s collar. The packaging and reblending operation appeared to be those in which workers were most at risk. Medical screening was performed on 11 workers, ten of whom reported headaches occurring in the production areas within 6 months of the evaluation. During that same time period, n...

Research paper thumbnail of Littleton/Englewood Wastewater Treatment Plant Englewood, Colorado

This Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) report and any recommendations made herein are for the specif... more This Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) report and any recommendations made herein are for the specific facility evaluated and may not be universally applicable. Any recommendations made are not to be considered as final statements of NIOSH policy or of any agency or individual involved.

Research paper thumbnail of Use of Direct Reading Surface Sampling Methods for Site Characterization and Remediation of Methamphetamine Contaminated Properties

Journal of ASTM International, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Handwipe Method for Removing Lead from Skin

Journal of ASTM International, 2011

Page 1. Eric J. Esswein, 1 Mark F. Boeniger, 2 and Kevin Ashley 3 ... Kresto Select™ cleanser wit... more Page 1. Eric J. Esswein, 1 Mark F. Boeniger, 2 and Kevin Ashley 3 ... Kresto Select™ cleanser with scrubber, and Kresto Kwik™ wipes, were purchased from Stockhausen Greensboro, NC, USA. GoJo Multigreen™ cleanser with scrubbers was obtained from GoJo Corp. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Workplace Simulations: An Alternative to On-Site Industrial Hygiene Sampling

Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 1994

Numerous hazardous agents are present in the workplaces of the construction industries. Conductin... more Numerous hazardous agents are present in the workplaces of the construction industries. Conducting an on-site industrial hygiene survey in some phases of these industries can be difficult, if not impossible. An example is the evaluation of hazards arising in the cutting of epoxy-coated steel reinforcing rod (coated rod) in the structural steel erection industry (SIC 1791). When necessary, coated rod

Research paper thumbnail of 319. A Comprehensive Exposure Assessment in a Texas Battery Manufacturing Plant: Exposure by Multiple Routes, Deficiencies in a Respiratory Protection Program, and “Lead for Lunch”

Research paper thumbnail of Development of a Handwipe Detection Method for the Presence of Lead

NIOSH researchers have developed a novel lead identification and detection method that has global... more NIOSH researchers have developed a novel lead identification and detection method that has global applications. The Hand wipe Disclosing Method for the Presence of Lead was developed as a result of NIOSH field studies documenting risks for exposures to lead (Pb) and other toxic metals on workers’ skin and dermal contact surfaces. Field studies led to development of a sensitive and specific method that is easy to use, produces immediate results, and is inexpensive. Wipe samples are used for sample collection. The presence of lead is colorimetrically detected on the wipe. Chemical reagents do not contact the skin or surfaces that are sampled. The qualitative limit of identification is < 20 micrograms per sample. Laboratory confirmation of �1 microgram/sample is possible. This technology will enable occupational health and safety practitioners to identify and reduce Pb exposures by disclosing otherwise hidden exposure risks for Pb on skin and other surfaces. IOHA 2005 PILANESBERG: P...

Research paper thumbnail of Chemical Exposures Associated with Clandestine Methamphetamine Laboratories

... Department Nicola Erb, MA Epidemiologist, National Jewish Medical and Research Center ... coo... more ... Department Nicola Erb, MA Epidemiologist, National Jewish Medical and Research Center ... cook.: Table II – Phosphine Sampling Results Cook #1 (ppm) Cook #2 (ppm) Minimum ND ND Maximum 13 0.6 STEL Max 7 0.1 TWA 0.9 0.0 ...

Research paper thumbnail of Wipes and methods for removal of metals contamination from surfaces

Wipes, methods and kits useful for testing and/or removal of metal from surfaces (such as, dermal... more Wipes, methods and kits useful for testing and/or removal of metal from surfaces (such as, dermal surfaces) are disclosed. Exemplar wipes, including the combination of a three-dimensionally textured absorbent support, a cationic surfactant, and a weak acid, are disclosed. In some examples, the cationic surfactant is isostearamidopropyl morpholine lactate (ISML), and the weak acid is citric acid.

Research paper thumbnail of 151. Investigation of the Use of Salivary Lead to Assess Worker Exposures

AIHce 1996 - Health Care Industries Papers, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of 39. Exposures and Health Effects: An Industrial Hygiene Evaluation of Workers at a Sodium Azide Production Plant

AIHce 1996 - Health Care Industries Papers, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of 134. Handwipe Disclosing Method for the Presence of Lead

AIHce 2004, 2004

ABSTRACT A method of detecting lead contamination of a surface is disclosed. A handwipe is used t... more ABSTRACT A method of detecting lead contamination of a surface is disclosed. A handwipe is used to collect any lead contamination on the surface. The lead is solubilized with an aqueous acid solution and treated with rhodizonate or sulfide anions. A change in color from pink to red, where rhodizonate ions are used, or brown to black, where sulfide ions are used, is indicative of the presence of lead. The method is suitable for testing surfaces such as floors, walls, window sills, and human skin.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of Some Potential Chemical Exposure Risks During Flowback Operations in Unconventional Oil and Gas Extraction: Preliminary Results

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 2014

ABSTRACT makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all the information (the &quot;Content&... more ABSTRACT makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all the information (the &quot;Content&quot;) contained in the publications on our platform. However, Taylor &amp; Francis, our agents, and our licensors make no representations or warranties whatsoever as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose of the Content. Any opinions and views expressed in this publication are the opinions and views of the authors, and are not the views of or endorsed by Taylor &amp; Francis. The accuracy of the Content should not be relied upon and should be independently verified with primary sources of information. Taylor and Francis shall not be liable for any losses, actions, claims, proceedings, demands, costs, expenses, damages, and other liabilities whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directly or indirectly in connection with, in relation to or arising out of the use of the Content. This article may be used for research, teaching, and private study purposes. Any substantial or systematic reproduction, redistribution, reselling, loan, sub-licensing, systematic supply, or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden. Terms &amp; Conditions of access and use can be found at

Research paper thumbnail of Partnering and Consumer Orientation: Techniques that Move Occupational Safety and Health Research into Practice

Social Marketing Quarterly, 2008

ABSTRACT First responders, remediation workers, and other personnel frequently encounter clandest... more ABSTRACT First responders, remediation workers, and other personnel frequently encounter clandestine methamphetamine (meth) labs or previous meth lab sites while performing their everyday jobs. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) researchers developed a real-time method for detecting methamphetamine on surfaces for use by these workers. This case study describes how a federal agency developed and field-tested this innovative technology and collaborated with a private sector partner to commercialize and market the technology and the impact these actions had on its transfer and adoption.

Research paper thumbnail of The Nervous System Effects of Occupational Exposure to Manganese – Measured as Respirable Dust – in a South African Manganese Smelter

NeuroToxicology, 2005

Five hundred and nine production workers at a manganese (Mn) smelting works comprising eight prod... more Five hundred and nine production workers at a manganese (Mn) smelting works comprising eight production facilities and 67 external controls were studied cross-sectionally for Mn related neuroehavioural effects. Exposure measures from personal sampling included Mn in inhalable dust as cumulative exposure indices (CEI) and average intensity (INT). Biological exposure and biological effect measures included blood (MnB), urine (MnU) manganese and serum prolactin. Endpoints included items from the Swedish nervous system questionnaire (Q16), World Health Organisation neurobehavioural core test battery (WHO NCTB), Swedish performance evaluation system (SPES), Luria-Nebraska (LN), and Danish product development (DPD) test batteries, and a brief clinical examination. Potential confounders and effect modifiers included age, educational level, alcohol and tobacco consumption, neurotoxic exposures in previous work, past medical history, previous head injury and home language. Associations were evaluated by multiple linear and logistic regression modelling. Modelling assumptions were tested. Average exposure intensity across all jobs ranged from near 0 (0.06 mg/m 3 ) for external controls to 5.08 mg/m 3 for inhalable Mn, and was greater than the ACGIH TLV for 69% of subjects. Results from the large number of tests performed resolved into three groups. Group 1 shows differences between external unexposed referents and all the exposed and/or differences between internal low exposed referents and the rest of the exposed but no further exposure-response relationships. It includes the Santa Ana, Benton and digit-span tests from the WHO NCTB; the hand tapping and endurance tapping tests from the SPES; Luria-Nebraska item 2L; questionnaire items tired, depressed, irritated, having to take notes in order to remember things, and subjects' perception that they had sex less often than normal; a test of clinical abnormality; and increased sway under two conditions (eyes open without foot insulation, eyes open with foot insulation). Group 2 shows the presence of a more substantive exposure-response relationship. It consists of only two tests: and includes the WHO digit-symbol test (although the major impact is at low exposure and therefore counterintuitive, arguably placing this test in group 3) and the LN item 1R which has a step to a poorer score at high exposure. Group 3 contains the overwhelming majority of test results (almost all the questionnaire items, almost all the DPD tests including tremor, sway and diadochokinesia, and serum prolactin) which were either null or counterintuitive (did not make sense). The CEI was the strongest predictor of test abnormalities, except for the clinical test which was more strongly associated with blood manganese. Despite a comprehensive range of endpoints, and levels of exposure ranging from environmental to industrial, this large study of Mn workers found little convincing NeuroToxicology 24 (2003) 885-894 evidence for a continuum of effects, contributing further questions to current debates about the adequacy of the current ACGIH TLV. #

Research paper thumbnail of The Utility of Biological Monitoring for Manganese in Ferroalloy Smelter Workers in South Africa

NeuroToxicology, 2003

Five hundred and nine workers at a manganese (Mn) smelting works comprising eight production faci... more Five hundred and nine workers at a manganese (Mn) smelting works comprising eight production facilities and 67 external controls were studied cross-sectionally. Exposure measures from personal sampling included inhalable dust, cumulative exposure indices (CEI) and average intensity (INT ¼ CEI/years exposed) calculated for the current job at the smelter and also across all jobs held by subjects. Biological exposure was measured by Mn in the blood (MnB) and urine (MnU) and biological effect was measured by serum prolactin. Average lifetime exposure intensity across all jobs ranged from near 0 (0.06 mg/m 3 ) for unexposed external referents to 5 mg/m 3 . Atmospheric exposures and MnB and MnU distributions were consistent with published data for both unexposed and smelter workers. Associations between biological exposures and groups defined by atmospheric exposures in the current job were substantial for MnB, less so for MnU and absent for serum prolactin. Random sampling of MnB measurements representative of a group of workers with more than 1-2 years of service in the same job and notionally homogenous exposure conditions could serve as a crosssectional predictor of atmospheric Mn exposure in the current job, as well as for surveillance of Mn exposure trends over time. Correlations at the individual level were only modest for MnB (33% of the variance in log atmospheric Mn intensity in the current job was explained by log MnB), much worse for MnU (only 7%). However, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed which showed that it is possible to use a MnB cut-off of 10 mg/l (the 95th percentile in the unexposed) to good effect as a screening tool to discriminate between individual exposures exceeding and falling below a relatively strict atmospheric Mn exposure threshold at the ACGIH threshold limit value (TLV) of 0.2 mg/m 3 . MnU has no utility as a measure of biological exposure nor does serum prolactin as a measure of biological effect. #

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of a Handwipe Disclosing Method for Lead

Journal of ASTM International, 2011

A qualitative chemical screening method for lead in wipe samples was evaluated for its utility in... more A qualitative chemical screening method for lead in wipe samples was evaluated for its utility in detecting the presence of lead in collected dust; preliminary evaluation of the performance of the method is reported here. In evaluating the method on pure lead compounds, the observed intensity of the characteristic color change due to the presence of lead was generally consistent with the relative solubilities of the tested compounds. Some pure ͑non-lead͒ metal compounds ͑e.g., those of Ag, Ba, Bi, Ca, Cd, Hg, and Sr͒ were found to give false positive results. Several representative lead-containing reference materials were also tested, and the qualitative test results differed for different materials. For materials collected on wipes, the method was found to be effective for detecting lead in several sample matrices commonly found in occupational settings. The technique was also applied on-site on dermal samples collected at field locations.

Research paper thumbnail of Natural Rubber Latex

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2000

ABSTRACT Exposure to natural rubber latex may cause immediate hypersensitivity reactions. Publish... more ABSTRACT Exposure to natural rubber latex may cause immediate hypersensitivity reactions. Published latex sensitization prevalence rates range from 2.9% to 22% among health care workers, and from 0.12% to about 20% of occupationally unexposed populations. In this study, self-administered questionnaires addressed job and personal characteristics, glove use, and symptoms in two groups of hospital workers: those who regularly used latex gloves and those who did not. Serum was tested for latex-specific immunoglobulin E. Air, surface, and air-filter dust samples for natural rubber latex were collected. The prevalence of latex sensitization was 6.3% in the non-users and 6.1% in the latex glove users (P = 0.9); 81.3% of sensitized workers were atopic compared with 59.5% of non-sensitized workers (P &lt; 0.05). Reporting of work-related hand dermatitis was more common in the latex glove users (23.4%) than in the non-users (4.9%), as were rhino-conjunctivitis (16.3% and 7.9%, respectively, [P &lt; 0.01]), and hand urticaria (9.9% and 2.1%, respectively, [P &lt; 0.01]). There was no significant difference in work-related symptoms between the sensitized and non-sensitized workers. Environmental concentrations of latex were higher in the work areas of the non-sensitized workers, but higher in the clinical than in the non-clinical areas. Occupational latex glove use was not a risk factor for sensitization.

Research paper thumbnail of Occupational Exposures to Respirable Crystalline Silica During Hydraulic Fracturing

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 2013

This report describes a previously uncharacterized occupational health hazard: work crew exposure... more This report describes a previously uncharacterized occupational health hazard: work crew exposures to respirable crystalline silica during hydraulic fracturing. Hydraulic fracturing involves high pressure injection of large volumes of water and sand, and smaller quantities of well treatment chemicals, into a gas or oil well to fracture shale or other rock formations, allowing more efficient recovery of hydrocarbons from a petroleum-bearing reservoir. Crystalline silica ("frac sand") is commonly used as a proppant to hold open cracks and fissures created by hydraulic pressure. Each stage of the process requires hundreds of thousands of pounds of quartzcontaining sand; millions of pounds may be needed for all zones of a well. Mechanical handling of frac sand creates respirable crystalline silica dust, a potential exposure hazard for workers. Researchers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health collected 111 personal breathing zone samples at 11 sites in five states to evaluate worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica during hydraulic fracturing. At each of the 11 sites, full-shift samples exceeded occupational health criteria (e.g., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration calculated permissible exposure limit, the NIOSH recommended exposure limit, or the ACGIH threshold limit value), in some cases, by 10 or more times the occupational health criteria. Based on these evaluations, an occupational health hazard was determined to exist for workplace exposures to crystalline silica. Seven points of dust generation were identified, including sand handling machinery and dust generated from the work site itself. Recommendations to control exposures include product substitution (when feasible), engineering controls or modifications to sand handling machinery, administrative controls, and use of personal protective equipment. To our knowledge, this represents the first systematic study of work crew exposures to crystalline silica during hydraulic fracturing. Companies that conduct hydraulic fracturing using silica sand should evaluate their operations to determine the potential for worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica and implement controls as necessary to protect workers.

Research paper thumbnail of Occupational Health and Safety Aspects of Oil and Gas Extraction

Environmental and Health Issues in Unconventional Oil and Gas Development, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Health hazard evaluation report HETA 95-0023-2531, American Azide Corporation, Cedar City, Utah

In response to a confidential request, an investigation was begun into possible exposures to sodi... more In response to a confidential request, an investigation was begun into possible exposures to sodium-azide and hydrazoic-acid at the American Azide Corporation (SIC-5169), Cedar City, Utah. Personal breathing zone samples indicated that concentrations of sodium-azide ranged up to 1.7mg/m3. Hydrazoic-acid levels ranged up to 1.1 parts per million (ppm). Sodium-azide levels exceeded the NIOSH recommended exposure level (REL) of 0.3mg/m3 in 28% of the samples and hydrazoic-acid exceeded the REL of 0.1ppm in 14% of the samples. On one occasion the air sample taken inside a supplied air helmet showed a hydrazoic-acid level of 0.13ppm which was greater than the 0.05ppm level recorded from samples on the worker`s collar. The packaging and reblending operation appeared to be those in which workers were most at risk. Medical screening was performed on 11 workers, ten of whom reported headaches occurring in the production areas within 6 months of the evaluation. During that same time period, n...

Research paper thumbnail of Littleton/Englewood Wastewater Treatment Plant Englewood, Colorado

This Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) report and any recommendations made herein are for the specif... more This Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) report and any recommendations made herein are for the specific facility evaluated and may not be universally applicable. Any recommendations made are not to be considered as final statements of NIOSH policy or of any agency or individual involved.

Research paper thumbnail of Use of Direct Reading Surface Sampling Methods for Site Characterization and Remediation of Methamphetamine Contaminated Properties

Journal of ASTM International, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Handwipe Method for Removing Lead from Skin

Journal of ASTM International, 2011

Page 1. Eric J. Esswein, 1 Mark F. Boeniger, 2 and Kevin Ashley 3 ... Kresto Select™ cleanser wit... more Page 1. Eric J. Esswein, 1 Mark F. Boeniger, 2 and Kevin Ashley 3 ... Kresto Select™ cleanser with scrubber, and Kresto Kwik™ wipes, were purchased from Stockhausen Greensboro, NC, USA. GoJo Multigreen™ cleanser with scrubbers was obtained from GoJo Corp. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Workplace Simulations: An Alternative to On-Site Industrial Hygiene Sampling

Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 1994

Numerous hazardous agents are present in the workplaces of the construction industries. Conductin... more Numerous hazardous agents are present in the workplaces of the construction industries. Conducting an on-site industrial hygiene survey in some phases of these industries can be difficult, if not impossible. An example is the evaluation of hazards arising in the cutting of epoxy-coated steel reinforcing rod (coated rod) in the structural steel erection industry (SIC 1791). When necessary, coated rod

Research paper thumbnail of 319. A Comprehensive Exposure Assessment in a Texas Battery Manufacturing Plant: Exposure by Multiple Routes, Deficiencies in a Respiratory Protection Program, and “Lead for Lunch”

Research paper thumbnail of Development of a Handwipe Detection Method for the Presence of Lead

NIOSH researchers have developed a novel lead identification and detection method that has global... more NIOSH researchers have developed a novel lead identification and detection method that has global applications. The Hand wipe Disclosing Method for the Presence of Lead was developed as a result of NIOSH field studies documenting risks for exposures to lead (Pb) and other toxic metals on workers’ skin and dermal contact surfaces. Field studies led to development of a sensitive and specific method that is easy to use, produces immediate results, and is inexpensive. Wipe samples are used for sample collection. The presence of lead is colorimetrically detected on the wipe. Chemical reagents do not contact the skin or surfaces that are sampled. The qualitative limit of identification is < 20 micrograms per sample. Laboratory confirmation of �1 microgram/sample is possible. This technology will enable occupational health and safety practitioners to identify and reduce Pb exposures by disclosing otherwise hidden exposure risks for Pb on skin and other surfaces. IOHA 2005 PILANESBERG: P...

Research paper thumbnail of Chemical Exposures Associated with Clandestine Methamphetamine Laboratories

... Department Nicola Erb, MA Epidemiologist, National Jewish Medical and Research Center ... coo... more ... Department Nicola Erb, MA Epidemiologist, National Jewish Medical and Research Center ... cook.: Table II – Phosphine Sampling Results Cook #1 (ppm) Cook #2 (ppm) Minimum ND ND Maximum 13 0.6 STEL Max 7 0.1 TWA 0.9 0.0 ...

Research paper thumbnail of Wipes and methods for removal of metals contamination from surfaces

Wipes, methods and kits useful for testing and/or removal of metal from surfaces (such as, dermal... more Wipes, methods and kits useful for testing and/or removal of metal from surfaces (such as, dermal surfaces) are disclosed. Exemplar wipes, including the combination of a three-dimensionally textured absorbent support, a cationic surfactant, and a weak acid, are disclosed. In some examples, the cationic surfactant is isostearamidopropyl morpholine lactate (ISML), and the weak acid is citric acid.

Research paper thumbnail of 151. Investigation of the Use of Salivary Lead to Assess Worker Exposures

AIHce 1996 - Health Care Industries Papers, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of 39. Exposures and Health Effects: An Industrial Hygiene Evaluation of Workers at a Sodium Azide Production Plant

AIHce 1996 - Health Care Industries Papers, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of 134. Handwipe Disclosing Method for the Presence of Lead

AIHce 2004, 2004

ABSTRACT A method of detecting lead contamination of a surface is disclosed. A handwipe is used t... more ABSTRACT A method of detecting lead contamination of a surface is disclosed. A handwipe is used to collect any lead contamination on the surface. The lead is solubilized with an aqueous acid solution and treated with rhodizonate or sulfide anions. A change in color from pink to red, where rhodizonate ions are used, or brown to black, where sulfide ions are used, is indicative of the presence of lead. The method is suitable for testing surfaces such as floors, walls, window sills, and human skin.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of Some Potential Chemical Exposure Risks During Flowback Operations in Unconventional Oil and Gas Extraction: Preliminary Results

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 2014

ABSTRACT makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all the information (the &quot;Content&... more ABSTRACT makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all the information (the &quot;Content&quot;) contained in the publications on our platform. However, Taylor &amp; Francis, our agents, and our licensors make no representations or warranties whatsoever as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability for any purpose of the Content. Any opinions and views expressed in this publication are the opinions and views of the authors, and are not the views of or endorsed by Taylor &amp; Francis. The accuracy of the Content should not be relied upon and should be independently verified with primary sources of information. Taylor and Francis shall not be liable for any losses, actions, claims, proceedings, demands, costs, expenses, damages, and other liabilities whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directly or indirectly in connection with, in relation to or arising out of the use of the Content. This article may be used for research, teaching, and private study purposes. Any substantial or systematic reproduction, redistribution, reselling, loan, sub-licensing, systematic supply, or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden. Terms &amp; Conditions of access and use can be found at

Research paper thumbnail of Partnering and Consumer Orientation: Techniques that Move Occupational Safety and Health Research into Practice

Social Marketing Quarterly, 2008

ABSTRACT First responders, remediation workers, and other personnel frequently encounter clandest... more ABSTRACT First responders, remediation workers, and other personnel frequently encounter clandestine methamphetamine (meth) labs or previous meth lab sites while performing their everyday jobs. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) researchers developed a real-time method for detecting methamphetamine on surfaces for use by these workers. This case study describes how a federal agency developed and field-tested this innovative technology and collaborated with a private sector partner to commercialize and market the technology and the impact these actions had on its transfer and adoption.

Research paper thumbnail of The Nervous System Effects of Occupational Exposure to Manganese – Measured as Respirable Dust – in a South African Manganese Smelter

NeuroToxicology, 2005

Five hundred and nine production workers at a manganese (Mn) smelting works comprising eight prod... more Five hundred and nine production workers at a manganese (Mn) smelting works comprising eight production facilities and 67 external controls were studied cross-sectionally for Mn related neuroehavioural effects. Exposure measures from personal sampling included Mn in inhalable dust as cumulative exposure indices (CEI) and average intensity (INT). Biological exposure and biological effect measures included blood (MnB), urine (MnU) manganese and serum prolactin. Endpoints included items from the Swedish nervous system questionnaire (Q16), World Health Organisation neurobehavioural core test battery (WHO NCTB), Swedish performance evaluation system (SPES), Luria-Nebraska (LN), and Danish product development (DPD) test batteries, and a brief clinical examination. Potential confounders and effect modifiers included age, educational level, alcohol and tobacco consumption, neurotoxic exposures in previous work, past medical history, previous head injury and home language. Associations were evaluated by multiple linear and logistic regression modelling. Modelling assumptions were tested. Average exposure intensity across all jobs ranged from near 0 (0.06 mg/m 3 ) for external controls to 5.08 mg/m 3 for inhalable Mn, and was greater than the ACGIH TLV for 69% of subjects. Results from the large number of tests performed resolved into three groups. Group 1 shows differences between external unexposed referents and all the exposed and/or differences between internal low exposed referents and the rest of the exposed but no further exposure-response relationships. It includes the Santa Ana, Benton and digit-span tests from the WHO NCTB; the hand tapping and endurance tapping tests from the SPES; Luria-Nebraska item 2L; questionnaire items tired, depressed, irritated, having to take notes in order to remember things, and subjects' perception that they had sex less often than normal; a test of clinical abnormality; and increased sway under two conditions (eyes open without foot insulation, eyes open with foot insulation). Group 2 shows the presence of a more substantive exposure-response relationship. It consists of only two tests: and includes the WHO digit-symbol test (although the major impact is at low exposure and therefore counterintuitive, arguably placing this test in group 3) and the LN item 1R which has a step to a poorer score at high exposure. Group 3 contains the overwhelming majority of test results (almost all the questionnaire items, almost all the DPD tests including tremor, sway and diadochokinesia, and serum prolactin) which were either null or counterintuitive (did not make sense). The CEI was the strongest predictor of test abnormalities, except for the clinical test which was more strongly associated with blood manganese. Despite a comprehensive range of endpoints, and levels of exposure ranging from environmental to industrial, this large study of Mn workers found little convincing NeuroToxicology 24 (2003) 885-894 evidence for a continuum of effects, contributing further questions to current debates about the adequacy of the current ACGIH TLV. #

Research paper thumbnail of The Utility of Biological Monitoring for Manganese in Ferroalloy Smelter Workers in South Africa

NeuroToxicology, 2003

Five hundred and nine workers at a manganese (Mn) smelting works comprising eight production faci... more Five hundred and nine workers at a manganese (Mn) smelting works comprising eight production facilities and 67 external controls were studied cross-sectionally. Exposure measures from personal sampling included inhalable dust, cumulative exposure indices (CEI) and average intensity (INT ¼ CEI/years exposed) calculated for the current job at the smelter and also across all jobs held by subjects. Biological exposure was measured by Mn in the blood (MnB) and urine (MnU) and biological effect was measured by serum prolactin. Average lifetime exposure intensity across all jobs ranged from near 0 (0.06 mg/m 3 ) for unexposed external referents to 5 mg/m 3 . Atmospheric exposures and MnB and MnU distributions were consistent with published data for both unexposed and smelter workers. Associations between biological exposures and groups defined by atmospheric exposures in the current job were substantial for MnB, less so for MnU and absent for serum prolactin. Random sampling of MnB measurements representative of a group of workers with more than 1-2 years of service in the same job and notionally homogenous exposure conditions could serve as a crosssectional predictor of atmospheric Mn exposure in the current job, as well as for surveillance of Mn exposure trends over time. Correlations at the individual level were only modest for MnB (33% of the variance in log atmospheric Mn intensity in the current job was explained by log MnB), much worse for MnU (only 7%). However, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed which showed that it is possible to use a MnB cut-off of 10 mg/l (the 95th percentile in the unexposed) to good effect as a screening tool to discriminate between individual exposures exceeding and falling below a relatively strict atmospheric Mn exposure threshold at the ACGIH threshold limit value (TLV) of 0.2 mg/m 3 . MnU has no utility as a measure of biological exposure nor does serum prolactin as a measure of biological effect. #

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of a Handwipe Disclosing Method for Lead

Journal of ASTM International, 2011

A qualitative chemical screening method for lead in wipe samples was evaluated for its utility in... more A qualitative chemical screening method for lead in wipe samples was evaluated for its utility in detecting the presence of lead in collected dust; preliminary evaluation of the performance of the method is reported here. In evaluating the method on pure lead compounds, the observed intensity of the characteristic color change due to the presence of lead was generally consistent with the relative solubilities of the tested compounds. Some pure ͑non-lead͒ metal compounds ͑e.g., those of Ag, Ba, Bi, Ca, Cd, Hg, and Sr͒ were found to give false positive results. Several representative lead-containing reference materials were also tested, and the qualitative test results differed for different materials. For materials collected on wipes, the method was found to be effective for detecting lead in several sample matrices commonly found in occupational settings. The technique was also applied on-site on dermal samples collected at field locations.

Research paper thumbnail of Natural Rubber Latex

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2000

ABSTRACT Exposure to natural rubber latex may cause immediate hypersensitivity reactions. Publish... more ABSTRACT Exposure to natural rubber latex may cause immediate hypersensitivity reactions. Published latex sensitization prevalence rates range from 2.9% to 22% among health care workers, and from 0.12% to about 20% of occupationally unexposed populations. In this study, self-administered questionnaires addressed job and personal characteristics, glove use, and symptoms in two groups of hospital workers: those who regularly used latex gloves and those who did not. Serum was tested for latex-specific immunoglobulin E. Air, surface, and air-filter dust samples for natural rubber latex were collected. The prevalence of latex sensitization was 6.3% in the non-users and 6.1% in the latex glove users (P = 0.9); 81.3% of sensitized workers were atopic compared with 59.5% of non-sensitized workers (P &lt; 0.05). Reporting of work-related hand dermatitis was more common in the latex glove users (23.4%) than in the non-users (4.9%), as were rhino-conjunctivitis (16.3% and 7.9%, respectively, [P &lt; 0.01]), and hand urticaria (9.9% and 2.1%, respectively, [P &lt; 0.01]). There was no significant difference in work-related symptoms between the sensitized and non-sensitized workers. Environmental concentrations of latex were higher in the work areas of the non-sensitized workers, but higher in the clinical than in the non-clinical areas. Occupational latex glove use was not a risk factor for sensitization.

Research paper thumbnail of Occupational Exposures to Respirable Crystalline Silica During Hydraulic Fracturing

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 2013

This report describes a previously uncharacterized occupational health hazard: work crew exposure... more This report describes a previously uncharacterized occupational health hazard: work crew exposures to respirable crystalline silica during hydraulic fracturing. Hydraulic fracturing involves high pressure injection of large volumes of water and sand, and smaller quantities of well treatment chemicals, into a gas or oil well to fracture shale or other rock formations, allowing more efficient recovery of hydrocarbons from a petroleum-bearing reservoir. Crystalline silica ("frac sand") is commonly used as a proppant to hold open cracks and fissures created by hydraulic pressure. Each stage of the process requires hundreds of thousands of pounds of quartzcontaining sand; millions of pounds may be needed for all zones of a well. Mechanical handling of frac sand creates respirable crystalline silica dust, a potential exposure hazard for workers. Researchers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health collected 111 personal breathing zone samples at 11 sites in five states to evaluate worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica during hydraulic fracturing. At each of the 11 sites, full-shift samples exceeded occupational health criteria (e.g., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration calculated permissible exposure limit, the NIOSH recommended exposure limit, or the ACGIH threshold limit value), in some cases, by 10 or more times the occupational health criteria. Based on these evaluations, an occupational health hazard was determined to exist for workplace exposures to crystalline silica. Seven points of dust generation were identified, including sand handling machinery and dust generated from the work site itself. Recommendations to control exposures include product substitution (when feasible), engineering controls or modifications to sand handling machinery, administrative controls, and use of personal protective equipment. To our knowledge, this represents the first systematic study of work crew exposures to crystalline silica during hydraulic fracturing. Companies that conduct hydraulic fracturing using silica sand should evaluate their operations to determine the potential for worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica and implement controls as necessary to protect workers.