Nancy Simcox - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Nancy Simcox
Catalyst, May 15, 2020
Students in the science classroom learn that science makes right, which devalues (whether inadver... more Students in the science classroom learn that science makes right, which devalues (whether inadvertently or very purposefully) other non-scientific areas of study and largely works against ideas of collectivism and community, especially as science "rises to the top" in collaborative partnerships and interdisciplinary research and service. Applying feminist theory and social justice pedagogy within the chemistry classroom can help focus the students' learning experiences away from hierarchical outcomes that perpetuate discriminatory practices toward change agency and the pursuit of equity, especially in regard to the design of safer chemicals. Most would agree that it is not ethically acceptable to continue to design and produce chemicals that cause adverse human health effects and environmental pollution; however, changes in the chemistry classroom to redirect this outcome have been slow. Emphasis on designing safer chemicals driven by the precautionary principle can advance the role of students and teachers as change agents in their communities. When considering feminist theory and social Lab Meeting
Journal of Chemical Education, 2019
Toxicology and green chemistry have been adopted in research throughout academia, industry, and g... more Toxicology and green chemistry have been adopted in research throughout academia, industry, and government. While significant progress has been made to explain how chemicals impact human health and the environment, there is still a lack of proper training to incorporate these concepts into the curriculum to prepare the next generation of scientists for interdisciplinary careers. The Molecular Design Research Network (MoDRN) has developed and class-tested activities that allow integration of green chemistry and toxicology concepts into an undergraduate or high school curriculum. These activities challenge students to think about Safety Data Sheets and the toxicological and environmental impacts of sunscreen products while meeting American Chemical Society's Standards and Guidelines for curriculum development in the areas of Safety, Health, and Laboratory Experience. Survey data from class testing the Biology of Sunscreen Module found that 97% of students said the laboratory experiment positively impacted their choices and behaviors in regard to their health, while 84% said the laboratory experiment would alter their purchasing habits for sunscreen type. Learning objectives around lab safety, laboratory skills, and interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving can be met using these activities to meet the needs of traditional chemistry curriculum for accreditation by using an interdisciplinary approach.
Green Chemistry Letters and Reviews, 2019
The Green Chemistry & Chemical Stewardship Certificate Program was designed using the Community o... more The Green Chemistry & Chemical Stewardship Certificate Program was designed using the Community of Inquiry (COI) model as a framework for developing curriculum that engages students across the entire program to meet interdisciplinary, professional development program outcomes. The COI framework allows faculty and course developers to develop courses that consider cognitive, social, and teaching presence as equal components of successful learning experiences. In this program, students focus on systems thinking around green chemistry, business, environmental health, chemical alternative assessment tools, and social and environmental justice. They complete a capstone project that identifies a particular environmental or human health issue associated with a chemical and suggest suitable substitutions that are less harmful but equally effective. This paper describes the program's curriculum, partnerships, delivery modalities, and student feedback as a framework developing professional development opportunities that offer a rich interdisciplinary experience for learners.
CRC Press eBooks, Oct 4, 2007
141st APHA Annual Meeting (November 2 - November 6, 2013), Nov 4, 2013
PubMed, Mar 1, 2012
Background: Chemical exposures in the workplace are poorly documented and researched, yet appear ... more Background: Chemical exposures in the workplace are poorly documented and researched, yet appear to be widespread and with significant potential for impacting worker health. There are few reporting requirements for chemical usage on a national level. Methods: Chemical usage reports and employment data from Massachusetts were categorized by manufacturing subsector. Connecticut employment was compared to Massachusetts data, with the employment fraction used to estimate chemical usage in Connecticut. Results: The chemical manufacturing sector was estimated to use 620 million pounds of chemicals annually in Connecticut, and all other manufacturing sectors combined used an estimated 50 million pounds, with approximately half listed as carcinogens or reproductive hazards. Potential health effects are presented. Conclusion: Widespread chemicaluse underscores the need for the development and use of safer alternatives, as well as additional documentation of potential health effects. Physicians should be aware of potential chemical exposures for patients and provide preventive advice.
Frontiers in Public Health, Jan 26, 2022
Background: Construction work offers women economic advancement and self-fulfillment opportunitie... more Background: Construction work offers women economic advancement and self-fulfillment opportunities, but multiple barriers prevent their increased representation in the industry. This study used qualitative methods to identity key physical and psychosocial safety hazards affecting tradeswomen. Methods: Three focus groups were held in 2015 with 19 tradeswomen in Washington State. Groups discussed workplace hazards and solutions to make the trades safer for women. Discussions were recorded, transcribed, and two independent reviewers analyzed themes. Results: Participants identified myriad physical and psychosocial hazards including a dangerous work environment, inadequate personal protective equipment, gender discrimination, and fear of layoff for reporting concerns. Participants identified mentorship as a potential intervention to overcome some of these barriers. Conclusion: Findings suggest that the industry's work environment can be hostile and unsupportive for women, contributing to tradeswomen's injury risk and psychological distress. Future research and interventions should focus on understanding the relationships between and mediating the negative impact of women's physical and psychosocial workplace hazards. Results from these focus groups inspired a randomized control trial to study the impact mentorship has on decreasing physical and psychosocial hazards for women in construction, and improving retention.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 1999
... Though the liter-ature contains reports of silica exposures for stonecutters and rockcrushers... more ... Though the liter-ature contains reports of silica exposures for stonecutters and rockcrushers,(15¡ 18) the authors were unable to fi nd reports specifi c to the granite countertop indus-try. ... A water feed system can be fi tted to either electric or pneumatic tools; the latter avoids ...
Annals of Work Exposures and Health, Feb 17, 2018
Despite women's increased representation in the overall workforce, constr... more Despite women's increased representation in the overall workforce, construction remains a male-dominated industry. Prior studies have noted that the hazardous workplace environment combined with a culture that can be discriminatory and openly hostile can threaten women workers' health and safety. However, little information exists about the current physical and psychosocial hazards at work affecting tradeswomen. We examined differences in workplace exposure between women and men, and the association of these exposures with self-reported stress and work injury, in order to highlight how gendered conditions of work negatively affect tradeswomen's health. A holistic view of health that included the influence of both home and work spheres as well as hazards related to women's social experience was considered. Almost 300 workers (198 tradeswomen and 93 tradesmen) throughout Washington State completed surveys. We used descriptive statistics to compare exposures between genders, and logistic regression to model the association between psychosocial exposures and injury and stress outcomes. We found that women were significantly more likely than men to report high perceived stress (31 and 18%, respectively) and being injured at work in the past year (31 and 12%, respectively). Ten of the 12 work-related psychosocial exposures were found to be associated with either stress (job strain, gender and age discrimination, bullying, work/life balance, isolation, sexual harassment, safety climate, and social support) or injury (gender discrimination, bullying, overcompensation, and sexual harassment) for women. The industry continues to lag in supporting tradeswomen's health and safety needs. This study suggests that multiple exposures (including discrimination, overcompensation, and work/life balance) have an important impact on worker well-being. The findings underscore the complex interaction of gender, psychosocial exposures, and occupational risks, and indicate areas for intervention.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec 1, 2004
As studies increasingly support the presence of health risks associated with mold and moisture, u... more As studies increasingly support the presence of health risks associated with mold and moisture, understanding fungal concentrations and physical measurements as they relate to the microenvironment becomes more important. We conducted a cross-sectional study in the homes of 64 subjects. The primary objective of this study was to use trained inspectors' list of indicators in rooms (bathroom, bedroom, and basement) and determine whether these indicators are associated with higher fungal levels or physical measurements. A new category for combining the concentrations of fungal species, referred to as moisture indicator fungi (MIF), is used in the analysis. Our results show that basements with a musty odor, efflorescence, water sources, or mold have a two- to threefold increase in fungal concentrations over basements without these indicators. The regression model for the basement was highly predictive of indoor MIF concentrations (r2 = .446, p = .017). Basement water sources are substantial predictors of indoor total fungi, MIF, and Aspergillus/Penicillium spp. MIF concentrations are higher in homes with basement water sources, and most notably, the increase in MIF concentrations is significant in other living spaces (bathroom and bedroom) of the dwelling. Basement water sources are important moisture/mold indicators for epidemiologists to use in exposure assessments performed in residential dwellings.
141st APHA Annual Meeting and Exposition (November 2 - November 6, 2013), Nov 5, 2013
ABSTRACT Background: Commercial janitors are a large group of low wage, often immigrant workers w... more ABSTRACT Background: Commercial janitors are a large group of low wage, often immigrant workers who face significant risks at work. Anecdotal reports from a janitors' union in the Seattle area suggest an increase in workload over the past few years, which has potentially led to increased injury and illness. Methods: A labor union, a labor advocacy group and a research team collaborated on the cross-sectional questionnaire based study. Participants include union (n=275), non-union (n=75), workers, and a control group (n=75). A range of exposures including musculoskeletal stressors, chemical use, and psychosocial risks and outcomes including injuries, musculoskeletal pain, pulmonary and dermatological symptoms, and stress was administered by trained worker-interviewers. A workload scale was developed to assess changes in work intensity over a three-year period. Results: Initial results indicate a significant increase in workload with 28.5 % reporting >7 on a 10 point scale two years ago, up to 35% in 2012. An associated increase in injuries was similarly observed. Approximately 70% of union and non-union workers reported performing tasks with repetitive motion on all days. Moderate to severe stress more than doubled among both groups over time. The percentage of union workers with moderate back pain has doubled over the three-year period, increasing from 15.3 to 30.4%. Union workers had a 2-fold higher disability status as compared to non-union and the general population. Conclusion: Work safety and health concerns associated with heavier workload among janitors continue to increase, and preliminary findings show poor negative health outcomes.
ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, Jun 22, 2016
Chemicals are an integral component of laboratory activities in academia but minimizing hazards a... more Chemicals are an integral component of laboratory activities in academia but minimizing hazards and environmental impacts of chemicals is challenging. This paper describes how laboratories in University of Washington’s Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences (UW DEOHS) partnered with the UW Green Laboratory Program to explore approaches for assisting laboratories to adopt green chemistry principles and select safer chemicals. Chemical inventories, purchasing records, and hazardous waste data were used to quantitate chemical use in DEOHS. Characterizing chemical use based on the data sources provided the project team with a summary of the high volume chemicals used by departmental laboratories. As a way to target chemicals that are highly hazardous but not used in large masses/volumes, laboratory managers were asked about highly hazardous or toxic chemicals they used. Two chemicals were selected for alternatives assessments and developed into case studies that represent different barri...
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr 6, 2009
Control banding (CB) is a control-focused risk management model that has received international a... more Control banding (CB) is a control-focused risk management model that has received international attention. CB strategies are designed to control workplace chemical exposures after the completion of a qualitative risk assessment. Connecticut was one of the first states to provide training on how to use this control-focused tool. Joint labor/management teams and individuals from 34 workplaces attended a control banding workshop and learned how to use one CB model, the United Kingdom (UK) Health and Safety Executive's Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Essentials Toolkit. After the initial training program the investigators used follow-up workshops, questionnaires, site visit data, and case studies to evaluate the training curriculum and assess the utility and effectiveness of this CB strategy. We found that the model is easily learned, although several areas for improvement were identified. Participants from 10 workplaces used COSHH Essentials to evaluate at least one task. The training curriculum was effective in that the agreement between the exposure variables coded by these workplaces and one of the workshop instructors, a certified industrial hygienist (CIH), were highly concordant. The training curriculum and the model promoted a discussion of risk between workers and managers and resulted in the implementation of improvements in the work environment. The model agreed with both the CIH's and the worksites' qualitative risk assessments 65% of the time, and likely over-controlled for 71% (5/7) of the cases of nonagreement. Feedback from workshop participants benefits the current dialogue on the implications of implementing CB in the United States.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Aug 2, 2015
Phthalates, a ubiquitous class of chemicals found in consumer, personal care, and cleaning produc... more Phthalates, a ubiquitous class of chemicals found in consumer, personal care, and cleaning products, have been linked to adverse health effects. Our goal was to characterize urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and to identify work and nonwork sources among custodians using traditional cleaning chemicals and 'green' or environmentally preferable products (EPP). Sixty-eight custodians provided four urine samples on a workday (first void, before shift, end of shift, and before bedtime) and trained observers recorded cleaning tasks and types of products used (traditional, EPP, or disinfectant) hourly over the work shifts. Questionnaires were used to assess personal care product use. Four different phthalate metabolites [monoethyl phthalate (MEP), monomethyl phthalate (MMP), mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP)] were quantified using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Geometric means (GM) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated for creatinine-adjusted urinary phthalate concentrations. Mixed effects univariate and multivariate modeling, using a random intercept for each individual, was performed to identify predictors of phthalate metabolites including demographics, workplace factors, and personal care product use. Creatinine-adjusted urinary concentrations [GM (95% CI)] of MEP, MMP, MEHP, and MBzP were 107 (91.0-126), 2.69 (2.18-3.30), 6.93 (6.00-7.99), 8.79 (7.84-9.86) µg g −1 , respectively. An increasing trend in phthalate concentrations from before to after shift was not observed. Creatinine-adjusted urinary MEP was significantly associated with frequency of traditional cleaning chemical intensity in the multivariate model after adjusting for potential confounding by demographics, workplace factors, and personal care product use. While numerous demographics, workplace factors, and personal care products were statistically significant univariate predictors of MMP, MEHP, and MBzP, few associations persisted in multivariate models. In summary, among this population of custodians, we identified both occupational and nonoccupational predictors of phthalate exposures. Identification of phthalates as ingredients in cleaning chemicals and consumer products would allow workers and consumers to avoid phthalate exposure.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jul 10, 2014
Objectives-To identify and summarise volatile organic compound (VOC) exposure profiles of healthc... more Objectives-To identify and summarise volatile organic compound (VOC) exposure profiles of healthcare occupations. Methods-Personal (n=143) and mobile area (n=207) evacuated canisters were collected and analysed by a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer to assess exposures to 14 VOCs among 14 healthcare occupations in five hospitals. Participants were volunteers identified by their supervisors. Summary statistics were calculated by occupation. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to reduce the 14 analyte inputs to five orthogonal factors and identify occupations that were associated with these factors. Linear regressions were used to assess the association between personal and mobile area samples. Results-Exposure profiles differed among occupations; ethanol had the highest geometric mean (GM) among nursing assistants (~4900 and ~1900 μg/m 3 , personal and area), and 2-propanol had the highest GM among medical equipment preparers (~4600 and ~2000 μg/m 3 , personal and area). The highest total personal VOC exposures were among nursing assistants (~9200 μg/m 3), licensed practical nurses (~8700 μg/m 3) and medical equipment preparers (~7900 μg/m 3). The influence of the PCA factors developed from personal exposure estimates varied by occupation, which enabled a comparative assessment of occupations. For example, factor 1, indicative of solvent use, was positively correlated with clinical laboratory and floor stripping/waxing occupations and tasks. Overall, a significant correlation was observed (r=0.88) between matched personal and mobile area samples, but varied considerably by analyte (r=0.23-0.64). Conclusions-Healthcare workers are exposed to a variety of chemicals that vary with the activities and products used during activities. These VOC profiles are useful for estimating exposures for occupational hazard ranking for industrial hygienists as well as epidemiological studies.
Environmental Health Perspectives, Oct 1, 1997
This study emned behavioral changes in households after particpation in a home environmental amen... more This study emned behavioral changes in households after particpation in a home environmental ament Home ent visits by a trained coach, which involved a walk-through in the home with the home r were conducted in 36 homes. The walk-through included a list of be changes that the residents could make to reduce their exposures to home pollutants in ar s dust control, moisture problems, indoor air, hazardous houshold pod, and hobbies. Recruited households were surveyed 3 months after dte home assessment to cevluate their implementation ofthe reommendations. Following the home visits, 31 of 36 housolds re d at least one behavioral change, and 41% of the recommendations made by the volunte coaches were implemnted. In condusion, this study found that the majority of the househol o participated in the home asssment reported implemen at least one com on. This: home health promoional method was effective in influencing behavioral c Key wedi behavior change, dust, health, indoor air, vacuum-ing& ventilation.
Objectives Construction work can be dangerous, with exposure to toxic chemicals, heavy equipment,... more Objectives Construction work can be dangerous, with exposure to toxic chemicals, heavy equipment, electrocution, and ergonomic stressors. Little is known about women-specific hazards, and whether their minority status – less than 3% of skilled trades workers in the United States are women – subjects them to additional health and safety risks. Our study explores the nature, range, and extent of tradeswomen’s workplace hazards, with a goal of reducing their risks through effective program development. Methods Four focus groups were held in 2015 with 19 tradeswomen and 6 tradesmen, identified by community partners, from Washington State. Groups discussed physical and psychosocial workplace hazards and strategies to reduce them. Findings were independently analysed and informed development of a conceptual model on occupational and psychosocial stressors for tradeswomen. The theoretical framework guided creation of a questionnaire assessing the impact of health and safety hazards on women workers’ well-being. The survey was pilot tested with 3 tradeswomen and 2 tradesmen, and later administered using online, paper, and phone methods. Results Focus group findings revealed the challenges tradeswomen face in the male-dominated industry. From inadequate safety equipment to fears of asking for help or reporting their needs, tradeswomen are concerned about their health and safety. Preliminary survey data support the qualitative results. As of March 11, 2016, our survey had 211 participants. Almost three-quarters (73%) are women, and trades include 22% electricians, 19% labourers, and 13% plumbers/pipefitters. Conclusions The condition of tradeswomen is improving, but the industry lags in supporting their health and safety needs. Focus group findings and preliminary survey data suggest that gender-related stressors (including discrimination, tokenism, and overcompensation) play an important role in determining tradeswomen’s risk for negative health outcomes. Our conceptual model highlights the complicated nature of women’s workplace risks and indicates within-trade mentorship programs as a good area for future intervention.
Journal of Cleaner Production, Mar 1, 2011
Background: There is little available data on chemical use patterns by companies, with few federa... more Background: There is little available data on chemical use patterns by companies, with few federal requirements for reporting. This results in difficulties for targeting toxics for possible substitution, assisting employers with complying with newer international regulations, and decreased ability to estimate health and environmental impacts. Methods: Massachusetts chemical use data for manufacturers required under the Toxics Use Reduction Act (TURA) was acquired, with corresponding information on industrial sector classification and employment levels by sector for both Massachusetts (MA) and Connecticut (CT). The MA chemical data was adjusted based on the ratio of employment levels by sector for CT compared to MA to give estimates of chemical usage by sector in CT. Results: It was estimated that there was over 660 million pounds of chemicals used in CT, with over 300 million pounds each of carcinogens and reproductive hazards (categories overlap). The most common chemicals estimated to be used were styrene monomer (266 million lbs.), sodium hydroxide (60 million lbs.), and methanol (50 million lbs.). The industrial sub-sectors estimated with the highest chemical usage were chemical manufacturing, plastics and rubber products manufacturing, and fabricated metal product manufacturing. Conclusion: There is extensive chemical use in CT manufacturing, but little direct information on actual use patterns.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 2000
Not every ventilation system performs as intended; much can be learned when they do not. The purp... more Not every ventilation system performs as intended; much can be learned when they do not. The purpose of this study was to compare observed initial performance to expected levels for three saw-reconditioning shop ventilation systems and to characterize the changes in performance of the systems over a one-year period. These three local exhaust ventilation systems were intended to control worker exposures to cobalt, cadmium, and chromium during wet grinding, dry grinding, and welding/brazing activities. Prior to installation the authors provided some design guidance based on Industrial Ventilation, a Manual of Recommended Practice. (7) However, the authors had limited in uence on the actual installation and operation and no line authority for the systems. In apparent efforts to cut costs and to respond to other perceived needs, the installed systems deviated from the speci cations used in pressure calculations in many important aspects, including adding branch ducts, use of exible ducts, the choice of fans, and the construction of some hoods. After installation of the three systems, ventilation measurements were taken to determine if the systems met design speci cations, and worker exposures were measured to determine effectiveness. The results of the latter will be published as a companion article. The deviations from design and maintenance failures may have adversely affected performance. From the beginning to the end of the study period the distribution of air ow never matched the design speci cations for the systems. The observed air ows measured within the rst month of installation did not match the predicted design air ows for any of the systems, probably because of the differences between the design and the installed system. Over the rst year of operation, hood air ow variability was high due to inadequate cleaning of the sticky process materials which rapidly accumulated in the branch ducts. Poor distribution of air ows among branch ducts frequently produced individual hood air ows that were far below speci ed design levels even when the total air ow through that system was more than adequate. To experienced practitioners, it is not suprising that deviations from design recommendations and poor maintenance would be associated with poor system performance. Although commonplace, such experiences have not been documented in peer-reviewed publications to date. This publication is a rst step in providing that documentation.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 1999
Hand exposures of apple thinners to the pesticide azinphos-methyl (Guthion) were measured using t... more Hand exposures of apple thinners to the pesticide azinphos-methyl (Guthion) were measured using three methods (glove, handwash, and wipe). Hand exposure sampling for each method was conducted following apple thinning work for a period of two hours for six to eight workers. Foliar residue samples were collected on each day of hand exposure sampling in the same orchard blocks that were thinned; foliar residues are considered to have been constant during the four-day study, which took place, on average, six days after pesticide application. Hand exposure estimates derived from each of the three methods differed signi cantly (ANOVA: p < 0.001). Mean measured exposure rates for the glove, handwash, and wipe methods were 6.48, 1.83, and 0.28 mg/hr, respectively. A corrected estimate of hand exposure, 2.7 mg/hr, was calculated from the handwash measurements and the handwash removal efciency factor from a laboratory study. Comparison with this hand exposure estimate suggests that the glove method produced a 2.4-fold overestimate of exposure, whereas the wipe method produced a 10-fold underestimate. Studies that measure hand exposure to pesticides should include a careful description of sampling methods and should recognize the potential for measurement bias. Furthermore, the standardization and validation of dermal exposure assessment methods are critical to developing more comparable and more accurate pesticide exposure estimates.
Catalyst, May 15, 2020
Students in the science classroom learn that science makes right, which devalues (whether inadver... more Students in the science classroom learn that science makes right, which devalues (whether inadvertently or very purposefully) other non-scientific areas of study and largely works against ideas of collectivism and community, especially as science "rises to the top" in collaborative partnerships and interdisciplinary research and service. Applying feminist theory and social justice pedagogy within the chemistry classroom can help focus the students' learning experiences away from hierarchical outcomes that perpetuate discriminatory practices toward change agency and the pursuit of equity, especially in regard to the design of safer chemicals. Most would agree that it is not ethically acceptable to continue to design and produce chemicals that cause adverse human health effects and environmental pollution; however, changes in the chemistry classroom to redirect this outcome have been slow. Emphasis on designing safer chemicals driven by the precautionary principle can advance the role of students and teachers as change agents in their communities. When considering feminist theory and social Lab Meeting
Journal of Chemical Education, 2019
Toxicology and green chemistry have been adopted in research throughout academia, industry, and g... more Toxicology and green chemistry have been adopted in research throughout academia, industry, and government. While significant progress has been made to explain how chemicals impact human health and the environment, there is still a lack of proper training to incorporate these concepts into the curriculum to prepare the next generation of scientists for interdisciplinary careers. The Molecular Design Research Network (MoDRN) has developed and class-tested activities that allow integration of green chemistry and toxicology concepts into an undergraduate or high school curriculum. These activities challenge students to think about Safety Data Sheets and the toxicological and environmental impacts of sunscreen products while meeting American Chemical Society's Standards and Guidelines for curriculum development in the areas of Safety, Health, and Laboratory Experience. Survey data from class testing the Biology of Sunscreen Module found that 97% of students said the laboratory experiment positively impacted their choices and behaviors in regard to their health, while 84% said the laboratory experiment would alter their purchasing habits for sunscreen type. Learning objectives around lab safety, laboratory skills, and interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving can be met using these activities to meet the needs of traditional chemistry curriculum for accreditation by using an interdisciplinary approach.
Green Chemistry Letters and Reviews, 2019
The Green Chemistry & Chemical Stewardship Certificate Program was designed using the Community o... more The Green Chemistry & Chemical Stewardship Certificate Program was designed using the Community of Inquiry (COI) model as a framework for developing curriculum that engages students across the entire program to meet interdisciplinary, professional development program outcomes. The COI framework allows faculty and course developers to develop courses that consider cognitive, social, and teaching presence as equal components of successful learning experiences. In this program, students focus on systems thinking around green chemistry, business, environmental health, chemical alternative assessment tools, and social and environmental justice. They complete a capstone project that identifies a particular environmental or human health issue associated with a chemical and suggest suitable substitutions that are less harmful but equally effective. This paper describes the program's curriculum, partnerships, delivery modalities, and student feedback as a framework developing professional development opportunities that offer a rich interdisciplinary experience for learners.
CRC Press eBooks, Oct 4, 2007
141st APHA Annual Meeting (November 2 - November 6, 2013), Nov 4, 2013
PubMed, Mar 1, 2012
Background: Chemical exposures in the workplace are poorly documented and researched, yet appear ... more Background: Chemical exposures in the workplace are poorly documented and researched, yet appear to be widespread and with significant potential for impacting worker health. There are few reporting requirements for chemical usage on a national level. Methods: Chemical usage reports and employment data from Massachusetts were categorized by manufacturing subsector. Connecticut employment was compared to Massachusetts data, with the employment fraction used to estimate chemical usage in Connecticut. Results: The chemical manufacturing sector was estimated to use 620 million pounds of chemicals annually in Connecticut, and all other manufacturing sectors combined used an estimated 50 million pounds, with approximately half listed as carcinogens or reproductive hazards. Potential health effects are presented. Conclusion: Widespread chemicaluse underscores the need for the development and use of safer alternatives, as well as additional documentation of potential health effects. Physicians should be aware of potential chemical exposures for patients and provide preventive advice.
Frontiers in Public Health, Jan 26, 2022
Background: Construction work offers women economic advancement and self-fulfillment opportunitie... more Background: Construction work offers women economic advancement and self-fulfillment opportunities, but multiple barriers prevent their increased representation in the industry. This study used qualitative methods to identity key physical and psychosocial safety hazards affecting tradeswomen. Methods: Three focus groups were held in 2015 with 19 tradeswomen in Washington State. Groups discussed workplace hazards and solutions to make the trades safer for women. Discussions were recorded, transcribed, and two independent reviewers analyzed themes. Results: Participants identified myriad physical and psychosocial hazards including a dangerous work environment, inadequate personal protective equipment, gender discrimination, and fear of layoff for reporting concerns. Participants identified mentorship as a potential intervention to overcome some of these barriers. Conclusion: Findings suggest that the industry's work environment can be hostile and unsupportive for women, contributing to tradeswomen's injury risk and psychological distress. Future research and interventions should focus on understanding the relationships between and mediating the negative impact of women's physical and psychosocial workplace hazards. Results from these focus groups inspired a randomized control trial to study the impact mentorship has on decreasing physical and psychosocial hazards for women in construction, and improving retention.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 1999
... Though the liter-ature contains reports of silica exposures for stonecutters and rockcrushers... more ... Though the liter-ature contains reports of silica exposures for stonecutters and rockcrushers,(15¡ 18) the authors were unable to fi nd reports specifi c to the granite countertop indus-try. ... A water feed system can be fi tted to either electric or pneumatic tools; the latter avoids ...
Annals of Work Exposures and Health, Feb 17, 2018
Despite women&amp;amp;amp;#39;s increased representation in the overall workforce, constr... more Despite women&amp;amp;amp;#39;s increased representation in the overall workforce, construction remains a male-dominated industry. Prior studies have noted that the hazardous workplace environment combined with a culture that can be discriminatory and openly hostile can threaten women workers&amp;amp;amp;#39; health and safety. However, little information exists about the current physical and psychosocial hazards at work affecting tradeswomen. We examined differences in workplace exposure between women and men, and the association of these exposures with self-reported stress and work injury, in order to highlight how gendered conditions of work negatively affect tradeswomen&amp;amp;amp;#39;s health. A holistic view of health that included the influence of both home and work spheres as well as hazards related to women&amp;amp;amp;#39;s social experience was considered. Almost 300 workers (198 tradeswomen and 93 tradesmen) throughout Washington State completed surveys. We used descriptive statistics to compare exposures between genders, and logistic regression to model the association between psychosocial exposures and injury and stress outcomes. We found that women were significantly more likely than men to report high perceived stress (31 and 18%, respectively) and being injured at work in the past year (31 and 12%, respectively). Ten of the 12 work-related psychosocial exposures were found to be associated with either stress (job strain, gender and age discrimination, bullying, work/life balance, isolation, sexual harassment, safety climate, and social support) or injury (gender discrimination, bullying, overcompensation, and sexual harassment) for women. The industry continues to lag in supporting tradeswomen&amp;amp;amp;#39;s health and safety needs. This study suggests that multiple exposures (including discrimination, overcompensation, and work/life balance) have an important impact on worker well-being. The findings underscore the complex interaction of gender, psychosocial exposures, and occupational risks, and indicate areas for intervention.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec 1, 2004
As studies increasingly support the presence of health risks associated with mold and moisture, u... more As studies increasingly support the presence of health risks associated with mold and moisture, understanding fungal concentrations and physical measurements as they relate to the microenvironment becomes more important. We conducted a cross-sectional study in the homes of 64 subjects. The primary objective of this study was to use trained inspectors&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39; list of indicators in rooms (bathroom, bedroom, and basement) and determine whether these indicators are associated with higher fungal levels or physical measurements. A new category for combining the concentrations of fungal species, referred to as moisture indicator fungi (MIF), is used in the analysis. Our results show that basements with a musty odor, efflorescence, water sources, or mold have a two- to threefold increase in fungal concentrations over basements without these indicators. The regression model for the basement was highly predictive of indoor MIF concentrations (r2 = .446, p = .017). Basement water sources are substantial predictors of indoor total fungi, MIF, and Aspergillus/Penicillium spp. MIF concentrations are higher in homes with basement water sources, and most notably, the increase in MIF concentrations is significant in other living spaces (bathroom and bedroom) of the dwelling. Basement water sources are important moisture/mold indicators for epidemiologists to use in exposure assessments performed in residential dwellings.
141st APHA Annual Meeting and Exposition (November 2 - November 6, 2013), Nov 5, 2013
ABSTRACT Background: Commercial janitors are a large group of low wage, often immigrant workers w... more ABSTRACT Background: Commercial janitors are a large group of low wage, often immigrant workers who face significant risks at work. Anecdotal reports from a janitors' union in the Seattle area suggest an increase in workload over the past few years, which has potentially led to increased injury and illness. Methods: A labor union, a labor advocacy group and a research team collaborated on the cross-sectional questionnaire based study. Participants include union (n=275), non-union (n=75), workers, and a control group (n=75). A range of exposures including musculoskeletal stressors, chemical use, and psychosocial risks and outcomes including injuries, musculoskeletal pain, pulmonary and dermatological symptoms, and stress was administered by trained worker-interviewers. A workload scale was developed to assess changes in work intensity over a three-year period. Results: Initial results indicate a significant increase in workload with 28.5 % reporting >7 on a 10 point scale two years ago, up to 35% in 2012. An associated increase in injuries was similarly observed. Approximately 70% of union and non-union workers reported performing tasks with repetitive motion on all days. Moderate to severe stress more than doubled among both groups over time. The percentage of union workers with moderate back pain has doubled over the three-year period, increasing from 15.3 to 30.4%. Union workers had a 2-fold higher disability status as compared to non-union and the general population. Conclusion: Work safety and health concerns associated with heavier workload among janitors continue to increase, and preliminary findings show poor negative health outcomes.
ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering, Jun 22, 2016
Chemicals are an integral component of laboratory activities in academia but minimizing hazards a... more Chemicals are an integral component of laboratory activities in academia but minimizing hazards and environmental impacts of chemicals is challenging. This paper describes how laboratories in University of Washington’s Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences (UW DEOHS) partnered with the UW Green Laboratory Program to explore approaches for assisting laboratories to adopt green chemistry principles and select safer chemicals. Chemical inventories, purchasing records, and hazardous waste data were used to quantitate chemical use in DEOHS. Characterizing chemical use based on the data sources provided the project team with a summary of the high volume chemicals used by departmental laboratories. As a way to target chemicals that are highly hazardous but not used in large masses/volumes, laboratory managers were asked about highly hazardous or toxic chemicals they used. Two chemicals were selected for alternatives assessments and developed into case studies that represent different barri...
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr 6, 2009
Control banding (CB) is a control-focused risk management model that has received international a... more Control banding (CB) is a control-focused risk management model that has received international attention. CB strategies are designed to control workplace chemical exposures after the completion of a qualitative risk assessment. Connecticut was one of the first states to provide training on how to use this control-focused tool. Joint labor/management teams and individuals from 34 workplaces attended a control banding workshop and learned how to use one CB model, the United Kingdom (UK) Health and Safety Executive&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Essentials Toolkit. After the initial training program the investigators used follow-up workshops, questionnaires, site visit data, and case studies to evaluate the training curriculum and assess the utility and effectiveness of this CB strategy. We found that the model is easily learned, although several areas for improvement were identified. Participants from 10 workplaces used COSHH Essentials to evaluate at least one task. The training curriculum was effective in that the agreement between the exposure variables coded by these workplaces and one of the workshop instructors, a certified industrial hygienist (CIH), were highly concordant. The training curriculum and the model promoted a discussion of risk between workers and managers and resulted in the implementation of improvements in the work environment. The model agreed with both the CIH&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s and the worksites&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39; qualitative risk assessments 65% of the time, and likely over-controlled for 71% (5/7) of the cases of nonagreement. Feedback from workshop participants benefits the current dialogue on the implications of implementing CB in the United States.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Aug 2, 2015
Phthalates, a ubiquitous class of chemicals found in consumer, personal care, and cleaning produc... more Phthalates, a ubiquitous class of chemicals found in consumer, personal care, and cleaning products, have been linked to adverse health effects. Our goal was to characterize urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and to identify work and nonwork sources among custodians using traditional cleaning chemicals and 'green' or environmentally preferable products (EPP). Sixty-eight custodians provided four urine samples on a workday (first void, before shift, end of shift, and before bedtime) and trained observers recorded cleaning tasks and types of products used (traditional, EPP, or disinfectant) hourly over the work shifts. Questionnaires were used to assess personal care product use. Four different phthalate metabolites [monoethyl phthalate (MEP), monomethyl phthalate (MMP), mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP)] were quantified using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Geometric means (GM) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated for creatinine-adjusted urinary phthalate concentrations. Mixed effects univariate and multivariate modeling, using a random intercept for each individual, was performed to identify predictors of phthalate metabolites including demographics, workplace factors, and personal care product use. Creatinine-adjusted urinary concentrations [GM (95% CI)] of MEP, MMP, MEHP, and MBzP were 107 (91.0-126), 2.69 (2.18-3.30), 6.93 (6.00-7.99), 8.79 (7.84-9.86) µg g −1 , respectively. An increasing trend in phthalate concentrations from before to after shift was not observed. Creatinine-adjusted urinary MEP was significantly associated with frequency of traditional cleaning chemical intensity in the multivariate model after adjusting for potential confounding by demographics, workplace factors, and personal care product use. While numerous demographics, workplace factors, and personal care products were statistically significant univariate predictors of MMP, MEHP, and MBzP, few associations persisted in multivariate models. In summary, among this population of custodians, we identified both occupational and nonoccupational predictors of phthalate exposures. Identification of phthalates as ingredients in cleaning chemicals and consumer products would allow workers and consumers to avoid phthalate exposure.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jul 10, 2014
Objectives-To identify and summarise volatile organic compound (VOC) exposure profiles of healthc... more Objectives-To identify and summarise volatile organic compound (VOC) exposure profiles of healthcare occupations. Methods-Personal (n=143) and mobile area (n=207) evacuated canisters were collected and analysed by a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer to assess exposures to 14 VOCs among 14 healthcare occupations in five hospitals. Participants were volunteers identified by their supervisors. Summary statistics were calculated by occupation. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to reduce the 14 analyte inputs to five orthogonal factors and identify occupations that were associated with these factors. Linear regressions were used to assess the association between personal and mobile area samples. Results-Exposure profiles differed among occupations; ethanol had the highest geometric mean (GM) among nursing assistants (~4900 and ~1900 μg/m 3 , personal and area), and 2-propanol had the highest GM among medical equipment preparers (~4600 and ~2000 μg/m 3 , personal and area). The highest total personal VOC exposures were among nursing assistants (~9200 μg/m 3), licensed practical nurses (~8700 μg/m 3) and medical equipment preparers (~7900 μg/m 3). The influence of the PCA factors developed from personal exposure estimates varied by occupation, which enabled a comparative assessment of occupations. For example, factor 1, indicative of solvent use, was positively correlated with clinical laboratory and floor stripping/waxing occupations and tasks. Overall, a significant correlation was observed (r=0.88) between matched personal and mobile area samples, but varied considerably by analyte (r=0.23-0.64). Conclusions-Healthcare workers are exposed to a variety of chemicals that vary with the activities and products used during activities. These VOC profiles are useful for estimating exposures for occupational hazard ranking for industrial hygienists as well as epidemiological studies.
Environmental Health Perspectives, Oct 1, 1997
This study emned behavioral changes in households after particpation in a home environmental amen... more This study emned behavioral changes in households after particpation in a home environmental ament Home ent visits by a trained coach, which involved a walk-through in the home with the home r were conducted in 36 homes. The walk-through included a list of be changes that the residents could make to reduce their exposures to home pollutants in ar s dust control, moisture problems, indoor air, hazardous houshold pod, and hobbies. Recruited households were surveyed 3 months after dte home assessment to cevluate their implementation ofthe reommendations. Following the home visits, 31 of 36 housolds re d at least one behavioral change, and 41% of the recommendations made by the volunte coaches were implemnted. In condusion, this study found that the majority of the househol o participated in the home asssment reported implemen at least one com on. This: home health promoional method was effective in influencing behavioral c Key wedi behavior change, dust, health, indoor air, vacuum-ing& ventilation.
Objectives Construction work can be dangerous, with exposure to toxic chemicals, heavy equipment,... more Objectives Construction work can be dangerous, with exposure to toxic chemicals, heavy equipment, electrocution, and ergonomic stressors. Little is known about women-specific hazards, and whether their minority status – less than 3% of skilled trades workers in the United States are women – subjects them to additional health and safety risks. Our study explores the nature, range, and extent of tradeswomen’s workplace hazards, with a goal of reducing their risks through effective program development. Methods Four focus groups were held in 2015 with 19 tradeswomen and 6 tradesmen, identified by community partners, from Washington State. Groups discussed physical and psychosocial workplace hazards and strategies to reduce them. Findings were independently analysed and informed development of a conceptual model on occupational and psychosocial stressors for tradeswomen. The theoretical framework guided creation of a questionnaire assessing the impact of health and safety hazards on women workers’ well-being. The survey was pilot tested with 3 tradeswomen and 2 tradesmen, and later administered using online, paper, and phone methods. Results Focus group findings revealed the challenges tradeswomen face in the male-dominated industry. From inadequate safety equipment to fears of asking for help or reporting their needs, tradeswomen are concerned about their health and safety. Preliminary survey data support the qualitative results. As of March 11, 2016, our survey had 211 participants. Almost three-quarters (73%) are women, and trades include 22% electricians, 19% labourers, and 13% plumbers/pipefitters. Conclusions The condition of tradeswomen is improving, but the industry lags in supporting their health and safety needs. Focus group findings and preliminary survey data suggest that gender-related stressors (including discrimination, tokenism, and overcompensation) play an important role in determining tradeswomen’s risk for negative health outcomes. Our conceptual model highlights the complicated nature of women’s workplace risks and indicates within-trade mentorship programs as a good area for future intervention.
Journal of Cleaner Production, Mar 1, 2011
Background: There is little available data on chemical use patterns by companies, with few federa... more Background: There is little available data on chemical use patterns by companies, with few federal requirements for reporting. This results in difficulties for targeting toxics for possible substitution, assisting employers with complying with newer international regulations, and decreased ability to estimate health and environmental impacts. Methods: Massachusetts chemical use data for manufacturers required under the Toxics Use Reduction Act (TURA) was acquired, with corresponding information on industrial sector classification and employment levels by sector for both Massachusetts (MA) and Connecticut (CT). The MA chemical data was adjusted based on the ratio of employment levels by sector for CT compared to MA to give estimates of chemical usage by sector in CT. Results: It was estimated that there was over 660 million pounds of chemicals used in CT, with over 300 million pounds each of carcinogens and reproductive hazards (categories overlap). The most common chemicals estimated to be used were styrene monomer (266 million lbs.), sodium hydroxide (60 million lbs.), and methanol (50 million lbs.). The industrial sub-sectors estimated with the highest chemical usage were chemical manufacturing, plastics and rubber products manufacturing, and fabricated metal product manufacturing. Conclusion: There is extensive chemical use in CT manufacturing, but little direct information on actual use patterns.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 2000
Not every ventilation system performs as intended; much can be learned when they do not. The purp... more Not every ventilation system performs as intended; much can be learned when they do not. The purpose of this study was to compare observed initial performance to expected levels for three saw-reconditioning shop ventilation systems and to characterize the changes in performance of the systems over a one-year period. These three local exhaust ventilation systems were intended to control worker exposures to cobalt, cadmium, and chromium during wet grinding, dry grinding, and welding/brazing activities. Prior to installation the authors provided some design guidance based on Industrial Ventilation, a Manual of Recommended Practice. (7) However, the authors had limited in uence on the actual installation and operation and no line authority for the systems. In apparent efforts to cut costs and to respond to other perceived needs, the installed systems deviated from the speci cations used in pressure calculations in many important aspects, including adding branch ducts, use of exible ducts, the choice of fans, and the construction of some hoods. After installation of the three systems, ventilation measurements were taken to determine if the systems met design speci cations, and worker exposures were measured to determine effectiveness. The results of the latter will be published as a companion article. The deviations from design and maintenance failures may have adversely affected performance. From the beginning to the end of the study period the distribution of air ow never matched the design speci cations for the systems. The observed air ows measured within the rst month of installation did not match the predicted design air ows for any of the systems, probably because of the differences between the design and the installed system. Over the rst year of operation, hood air ow variability was high due to inadequate cleaning of the sticky process materials which rapidly accumulated in the branch ducts. Poor distribution of air ows among branch ducts frequently produced individual hood air ows that were far below speci ed design levels even when the total air ow through that system was more than adequate. To experienced practitioners, it is not suprising that deviations from design recommendations and poor maintenance would be associated with poor system performance. Although commonplace, such experiences have not been documented in peer-reviewed publications to date. This publication is a rst step in providing that documentation.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 1999
Hand exposures of apple thinners to the pesticide azinphos-methyl (Guthion) were measured using t... more Hand exposures of apple thinners to the pesticide azinphos-methyl (Guthion) were measured using three methods (glove, handwash, and wipe). Hand exposure sampling for each method was conducted following apple thinning work for a period of two hours for six to eight workers. Foliar residue samples were collected on each day of hand exposure sampling in the same orchard blocks that were thinned; foliar residues are considered to have been constant during the four-day study, which took place, on average, six days after pesticide application. Hand exposure estimates derived from each of the three methods differed signi cantly (ANOVA: p < 0.001). Mean measured exposure rates for the glove, handwash, and wipe methods were 6.48, 1.83, and 0.28 mg/hr, respectively. A corrected estimate of hand exposure, 2.7 mg/hr, was calculated from the handwash measurements and the handwash removal efciency factor from a laboratory study. Comparison with this hand exposure estimate suggests that the glove method produced a 2.4-fold overestimate of exposure, whereas the wipe method produced a 10-fold underestimate. Studies that measure hand exposure to pesticides should include a careful description of sampling methods and should recognize the potential for measurement bias. Furthermore, the standardization and validation of dermal exposure assessment methods are critical to developing more comparable and more accurate pesticide exposure estimates.