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This article presents a comparative assessment of energy consumption and fume emissions such as NOx, CO2, and CO associated with the excavation of a specified gypsum volume using two mining methods (blasting and mechanical extraction). The analysis was carried out based on a case study gypsum open-pit mine in Poland where both extraction methods are applied. The findings indicate that, for the same output volume, blasting operations require significantly less energy (ranging from 1298.12 MJ to 1462.22 MJ) compared to mechanical excavation (86,654.15 MJ). Furthermore, a substantial portion of the energy in blasting operations is attributed to explosive loading and drilling (970.95 MJ). Conversely, mechanical mining results in higher fume emissions compared to blasting. However, during mechanical extraction, the fumes are dispersed over a prolonged period of 275 h, whereas blasting achieves the same gypsum volume extraction in approximately 7.5 h. The prediction model suggests that, based on the obtained data, overall gypsum extraction will decline unless new operational levels are developed or the mine is expanded. This reduction in gypsum extraction will be accompanied by a corresponding decrease in energy consumption and emission of fumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Welders are more likely to develop neurobehavioral disorders because of their exposure to neurotoxic metals such as manganese. This study aimed to measure the neurobehavioral performance of welders occupationally exposed to manganese at welding enterprises and its relationship with the workplace environment. Methods: It is a comparative cross-sectional study carried out on 130 welders working at 50 welding enterprises in Menoufia governorate, Egypt, compared to 130 non-occupationally exposed controls. Results: It was found that the environments of the studied welding enterprises had levels of respirable dust, manganese, and total welding fumes that exceeded internationally permissible limits. In addition, the mean blood manganese levels were significantly higher among welders (4.16 ± 0.61) than the controls (1.72 ± 0.41). Welders had a significantly higher prevalence of neurological manifestations and lower performance of neurobehavioral tests. Lower neurobehavioral performance among welders was significantly correlated with increased work duration and blood levels in some tests. Conclusion: To lessen the fumes in the breathing zone of workers, it is therefore strongly recommended to regularly wear high-quality personal protective equipment, especially masks, and to ensure proper ventilation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the intricate health hazards of welding, emphasizing cancer risks, respiratory and neurological impacts, and the need for ventilation measures. Utilizing advanced techniques, welding fumes' composition and morphology, revealing elevated risks for stainless steel welders were analyzed. A novel robotic system for continuous exposure assessments, advocates for a thorough re-evaluation of welding practices. It navigates the complexity of risk factors, addressing short-term and long-term health risks, including emissions' broader environmental impacts. The research underscores the importance of controlled animal models, investigating the link between welding and various cancers. Acknowledging collaborative efforts, the study aims to enhance our understanding of safer working conditions in the welding community. The article narrates the negative side of welding fumes on the health of human beings and its detrimental effects on the human life cycle. The authors have gone through the various articles and presented a comprehensive review that brings out the problems associated with welding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local folks have reported that roasting cashew nuts has fatal effects on domestic birds, especially chickens. This study compared the toxicological effect of acute (one-hour) inhalation of cashew nutshell fumes (CNSF) in Cockerel chickens and Wistar rats. Twenty-four mixed-sex Wistar rats were divided into four groups; control, rats exposed to 500ppm/hr., 1250ppm/hr. and 2500ppm/hr. of CNSF for one (1) hour. The chickens were also divided into three groups of 6 chickens each; control (unexposed chickens), chickens exposed to 500ppm/hr. and 1000ppm/hr. of CNSF for one (1) hour. Hematological analysis as well as histological examinations of the lungs and heart of the Chickens and Rats were carried out. After one hour of exposure, the toxicity signs noted include; scratching, twitching, irregular breathing, and tremors. All rats exposed to 2500ppm/hr of CNSF died with moderate pulmonary congestion. Analysis of hematological parameters in the surviving animals showed a significant (P<0.05) increase in hemoglobin (Hb%), packed cell volume (PCV%) and white blood cells (WBCx109L) counts in both chickens and Wistar rats exposed to CNSF compared with the unexposed control groups. No significant (P>0.05) differences were found between male and female rats for all the hematological parameters measured. The results also showed species-specific variations in all the hematological parameters. Histopathological evaluation reflects a mononuclear inflammatory infiltration of the striated heart muscles and the septa of alveoli in the lungs. These results further highlight the possible adverse health effects of exposure to cashew nut fumes in animals and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a comparative assessment of energy consumption and fume emissions such as NOx, CO2, and CO associated with the excavation of a specified gypsum volume using two mining methods (blasting and mechanical extraction). The analysis was carried out based on a case study gypsum open-pit mine in Poland where both extraction methods are applied. The findings indicate that, for the same output volume, blasting operations require significantly less energy (ranging from 1298.12 MJ to 1462.22 MJ) compared to mechanical excavation (86,654.15 MJ). Furthermore, a substantial portion of the energy in blasting operations is attributed to explosive loading and drilling (970.95 MJ). Conversely, mechanical mining results in higher fume emissions compared to blasting. However, during mechanical extraction, the fumes are dispersed over a prolonged period of 275 h, whereas blasting achieves the same gypsum volume extraction in approximately 7.5 h. The prediction model suggests that, based on the obtained data, overall gypsum extraction will decline unless new operational levels are developed or the mine is expanded. This reduction in gypsum extraction will be accompanied by a corresponding decrease in energy consumption and emission of fumes.

The blasting activity generates one of the effects in the form of toxic gases (fumes) that can disturb living beings around them. Fumes formation is formed by the reaction of the explosive material not in a zero oxygen balance condition, and is influenced by several factors including the condition of the blast hole, rock moisture content, blast hole temperature and relative humidity, sleep blast, explosive material ratio, and poor confinement stemming. This study investigates the variations in site condition and blast geometry on the formation fumes in open-pit coal mining. This research was conducted at the coal mine of Kaltim Prima Coal (PT KPC) to quantitatively measure the levels of toxic gas (fumes) resulting from blasting activities. In-situ measurements were conducted using a gas detector suspended above a drone. From the measurement results, it was found that blasting activities at the PT KPC coal mine produce CO and NO2 gases in toxic gas visual conditions at Levels 0 and 1A. The CO gas levels resulting from blasting activities ranged from 60.34 to 324.79 ppm, and the NO2 gas levels ranged from 0.3 to 2.11 ppm. From the trial results, by altering the explosive material ratio, toxic gas visual conditions were observed at Level 2A with CO gas levels of 360.29 ppm and NO2 gas levels of 3.16 ppm. The formation of CO and NO2 gases from blasting is influenced by the blast hole temperature and humidity, as well as differences in explosive material ratios. Based on the gas CO and NO2 level measurements, according to the threshold values with the maximum exposure level for humans over a 15-minute period for both gases, it was determined that workers could safely return to the blasting site in less than 1 minute. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The level of gaseous pollutants CO, NO2, NH3, and H2S at four strategic places CAS campus (site A), PRESCO campus (site B), ISHIEKE campus (site C), and PERMSITE campus (site D) in Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki business centers were determined using a hand-held Portable gas monitor (gas man model CO1925 6H, NO2 19835H, NH3 19736H, and H2S1975 2H) for a period of two seasons (dry and rainy season). The ascending order of magnitude of the concentration of the gaseous pollutants in the dry season was NH3 < NO2 < CO. The same trend was also recorded in the rainy season while H2S was not detected in both seasons. The range of NH3, NO2, and CO in the dry season was 0.24±0.00 site B to 0.53±0.05 site D, 0.38±0.08 site B to 0.82±0.25 site D, and 0.98±0.28 site C to 1.52±0.51 site D respectively. The result of NH3 obtained during the rainy season ranged from 0.12±0.10 site B to 0.64±0.24 site C while the range of NO2 and CO were 0.43±0.21 site B to 0.70±0.25 site A, 0.89±0.36 site C to 1.03±0.56 site D respectively. CO recorded the highest concentration in all the sites studied followed by NO2 while NH3 had the least concentration. In this study, all the results obtained were not above World Health Organization (W.H.O) standard (NO2=20.1 ppm, NH3=67 ppm, CO = 2.68 ppm, and H2S = 0.03 ppm). Therefore, the air quality of these campuses' business centers is conducive for now. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The admissible concentrations of toxic fumes, which appear after blasting works in open pits and underground mine excavations, are presented in this paper. Fumes were examined according to the national standard, which was designed according to European regulations. Fumes that are taken under consideration according to the European standard are carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrate oxides (NOx). The afterburning effect was not included. Analysis showed inconclusive results of possible explosive applicability in countries that are applying the general toxicity index (toxicity coefficient may vary between countries from 5 to 10) instead of the recommended European regulation. Based on the obtained results, it was concluded that the most environmentally friendly explosives are emulsion explosives. Moreover, the ammonium nitrate prill diameter has not significantly affected the fumes’ concentration; however, it significantly influences the velocity of detonation.

The objective of the paper is investigation of hygienic characteristics of harmful substances, which contaminate the air in continuous and pulsed flash-butt welding, to create the appropriate means for welder protection. Description of the methods of studying the chemical composition of welding fumes and gases, dispersed composition of the fumes and assessment of their influence on the welder body is given. It is found that flash-butt welding of R65 rails is accompanied by evolution of harmful substances into the working zone air in the form of fumes at the nanorange level, which are characterized by high biological activity. It is shown that fume toxicity at continuous and pulsed flashing belongs to a moderately dangerous class. The main elements, which determine the fume toxicity, are manganese and iron. It is found that in flash-butt welding the fumes are generated, which contain nanosized components of manganese and iron in concentrations, exceeding the calculated tentatively safe levels of human exposure. Performed studies showed that flash-butt welding is accompanied by generation of such toxic gases as nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide in the work place, in concentrations exceeding the limit permissible ones. Obtained results of comprehensive hygienic assessment of the fumes in flash-butt welding provided exhaustive information on the level of harmful influence of these fumes on the welder body. Ref. 20, Tabl. 5, Fig. 11. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The admissible concentrations of toxic fumes, which appear after blasting works in open pits and underground mine excavations, are presented in this paper. Fumes were examined according to the national standard, which was designed according to European regulations. Fumes that are taken under consideration according to the European standard are carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrate oxides (NOx). The afterburning effect was not included. Analysis showed inconclusive results of possible explosive applicability in countries that are applying the general toxicity index (toxicity coefficient may vary between countries from 5 to 10) instead of the recommended European regulation. Based on the obtained results, it was concluded that the most environmentally friendly explosives are emulsion explosives. Moreover, the ammonium nitrate prill diameter has not significantly affected the fumes' concentration; however, it significantly influences the velocity of detonation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The state-of-the-art in the physical chemistry of atmospheric aerosols is considered. Special emphasis is laid on the sources and possible mechanisms of their formation and their composition. It is pointed out that contaminants of anthropogenic origin in lower atmosphere layers provoke global climatic changes. The positive and negative effects of aerosols on the environment are studied. The need for a theory of aerosols with the purpose of solving the urgent environmental problems is substantiated. Aerosols may both good and harmful for a person. Artificial aerosols are used to treat people and animals, provoke rain, prevent hail, etc. The solution of many problems, even those crucial for the future of human existence on the Earth, depend on the successful development of aerosol theory. It is shown that the effect of aerosols on the climate is now incorrectly estimated primarily due to inaccuracy in studying the formation of atmospheric aerosols and a lack of information about their physicochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heating processes for the removal of electronic components from waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs) is an important step in the chain of electronic waste recycling, and toxic fumes are generated during the de-soldering process, causing environmental pollution and posing health risks for the workers. This study is aimed to characterize emission and deposition fluxes of respirable particulate matter (PM), and assess exposure of workers to particle-bound polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). An electrical low-pressure impactor was used to measure the real-time PM concentrations inside and outside the hood during the WPCBs de-soldering process. The results show that PM mass concentration inside the hood (204 mg/m3) was significantly higher than outside the hood (9.4 mg/m3), representing 95.4% PM removal by the hood. According to the International Commission on Radiological Protection model, the total deposition fluxes of PM in head airways region, tracheobronchial region, and alveolar region were determined as 1930, 74.0, and 123 μg/h, respectively. The deposition flux for coarse particles (2.5-10 μm) in the head airways was the largest (1830 μg/h), accounting for 86.1% of total PM deposited in respiratory system. The ∑8PBDEs concentration in PM10 inside the WPCBs de-soldering workshop was 20,300 pg/m3, and the ∑8PBDEs inhalation exposure for the worker was 1.46 ng/kg/day. This study improves understanding of PM emission mechanisms and provides fundamental data for health assessments during WPCBs de-soldering process.

Background: Cooking and fuel combustion in the indoor environment are major sources of respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM), which is an excellent carrier of potentially harmful absorbed inorganic and organic compounds. Chronic exposure to RSPM can lead to acute pulmonary illness, asthma, cardiovascular disease, and lung cancer in people involved in cooking. Despite this, questions remain about the harmfulness of different particulate matter (PM) sources generated during cooking, and the factors influencing PM physico-chemical properties. The most reliable methods for sampling and analyzing cooking emissions remain only partially understood. Objectives: This review aims to comprehensively assess the risks of PM generated during cooking, considering the main sources of PM, PM chemical composition, and strategies for PM physico-chemical analysis. We present the first systematic analysis of PM sources and chemical composition related to cooking. We highlight significant differences between studies using different experimental conditions, with a lack of a standard methodology. Methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement rules and the Patient, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) strategy for scientific research, three different scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were screened to find scientific articles that measure, collect, and analyze the chemical composition of nanometer- and micrometer-sized PM generated during cooking activities under different conditions. Data are summarized to assess risk, evaluating the main sources and factors influencing PM generation, their chemical composition, and how they have been collected and analyzed in changing experimental conditions. Results: From 2474 search results, there were 55 studies that met our criteria. Overall, the main variable sources of PM in cooking activities relate to the stove and fuel type. The concentration and chemical–physical properties of PM are also strongly influenced by the food and food additive type, food processing type, cooking duration, temperature, and utensils. The most important factor influencing indoor PM concentration is ventilation. The PM generated during cooking activities is composed mainly of elemental carbon (EC) and its derivatives, and the porous structure of PM with high surface-to-volume ratio is a perfect carrier of inorganic and organic matter. Conclusions: This review reveals a growing interest in PM exposure during cooking activities and highlights significant variability in the chemical–physical properties of particles, and thus variable exposure risks. Precise risk characterization improves possible preventive strategies to reduce the risk of indoor pollutant exposure. However, comprehensive PM analysis needs proper sampling and analysis methods which consider all factors influencing the physico-chemical properties of PM in an additive and synergistic way. Our analysis highlights the need for method standardization in PM environmental analyses, to ensure accuracy and allow deeper comparisons between future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relevance . With growing economy and flourishing construction industries the comorbidities among construction workers are also raised. They are exposed to various dust, fumes, noxious gases and vapours making them susceptible to chronic airway diseases like Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the respiratory health status of construction workers in an unorganised sector. Materials and Methods . The data collected from National Capital of Delhi region in an unorganised sector of construction workers by using a Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire by the Institute of Occupational Health and Environmental research, Basaidarapur, Delhi, India. All the participant response was noted and the answers were evaluated to see respiratory health status of workers. Total 200 workers were evaluated. Total 182 males and 18 female participated in the study. Results and Discussion . 25% of workers reported poor health at the time of the survey, while only 4% of workers considered their health to be very good. Among the main complaints were indicated: cough, sputum production, shortness of breath, chest infections, attacks of wheezing. The overall mean of Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire core was 33.55. It increases with the working period in the construction field with 21.6% for 10years and 49.1 for 30years experienced workers, while workers with 11 to 20 years of experience, the score was 28.4. The Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire score was 35.1 in 21-30 years of experienced construction workers. Conclusion . As a result of the study, construction workers are found to be at high risk of various respiratory diseases and related disabilities. Participants in this study did not receive any treatment for respiratory problems at any clinic. This means the importance of occupational health education and the use of personal protective equipment and safe working conditions for construction workers.

Bitumen is a major construction material that can emit harmful fumes when heated. These fumes pose health risks to workers and communities near construction projects or asphalt mixing plants. The chemical complexity of bitumen fumes and the increasing use of additives add to the difficulty of analytically quantifying the harmful chemicals emitted using a single technique. Research on bitumen emissions consists of numerous sample preparation and analytical methods. There are a range of considerations to be made when deciding on an appropriate sample preparation method and instrumental configuration to optimise the analysis of specific organic contaminants in emissions. Researchers investigating emissions from bituminous materials may need to consider a range of analytical techniques to quantify harmful chemicals and assess the efficacy of new additives. This review summarises the primary methodologies for sample preparation and analytical techniques used in bitumen research and discusses future challenges and solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bitumen additives that can reduce emissions in bitumen and asphalt are desirable for managing or mitigating harmful or odorous emissions during infrastructure projects. Assessing and comparing the relative performance of different additive classes is crucial for determining their significance in emission reduction. In this study, a range of additive classes were investigated, including commercial additives, natural products, synthetic chemicals, biomolecules, and solid adsorbents. Headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS) was used to measure the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from bitumen after the incorporation of these additives. Among the additives investigated, solid adsorbents such as biochar materials were the most effective in mitigating the emissions of the monitored VOCs by up to 50%. These results suggest that biochar, may be prioritized for managing VOC emissions in asphalt-related projects. [Display omitted] • Odorous bitumen needs to be managed to reduce harm to human life. • Additives from natural and synthetic sources can reduce emissions in bitumen. • Biochar materials can reduce volatile organic compounds in bitumen by up to 50%. • Speculations can be made for the complex interaction of bitumen with the additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A FAVORABLE COMPARISON WITH AIRCRAFT-SPECIFIC LIMITS DOES NOT ASSURE ACCEPTABILITY Chen et al. suggest that the favorable comparison of aircraft data to aircraft design standards implies acceptability. 5 The aircraft limit should be lower than that for ground-based applications; because, in operation, the aircraft environment is reduced pressure, which increases susceptibility to hypoxia. Keywords: air quality; aircraft; exposure limits; fumes; marker compounds; thermal environment EN air quality aircraft exposure limits fumes marker compounds thermal environment 1 4 4 03/02/22 20220201 NES 220201 CONFLICTS OF INTEREST The author is employed in the safety, health, and security department of a union, which represents nearly 50 000 flight attendants at 17 US airlines (Association of Flight Attendants, AFL-CIO). It is understandable that they did not cite a UFP limit in table 1 because there are no such limits currently, whether on or off aircraft.13 Notably, though, a World Health Organization guideline defines a count of >20 000 particles/cm SP 3 sp (1 h mean) as "high",14 which is considerably lower than some of the aircraft data. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction Soldering is one of the actions in the electronics industry processes that create disturbances in the oral, nasal, and respiratory tract. In worldwide, many people are working in this occupation. The most common to reduce employees’ exposure to chemical agents in workplaces is local exhaust ventilation. This study aims to design and install local ventilation to control exposure to soldering fumes in the electronic industry in Kerman. Materials and Methods A present Experimental study is a description- analytical that carried out in three steps in an assembly line for electronic components in Kerman in the summer of 2018: 1- collecting samples of contaminants produced during soldering 2- designing, manufacturing and installing a local exhaust ventilation 3- collecting samples of contaminants produced during soldering after designing exhaust ventilation. Lead and tin collecting samples were done based on NIOSH 7105 and NIOSH 5504 respectively. Results The results showed that employees had more exposure to the tin and lead contaminants before designing and installing local exhaust ventilation that was above the allowed rate. The results of designing exhaust ventilation of 20.5 m3/min showed that tin and lead fumes rates could reach below the allowed rates in all workplaces. Conclusion The investigation and comparison of the allowed rates of exposure to soldering fumes and the density rates in workplaces before and after designing the local exhaust ventilation proved the high efficiency of controlling methods in the assembly line of electronic components.

Background: Cooking and fuel combustion in the indoor environment are major sources of respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM), which is an excellent carrier of potentially harmful absorbed inorganic and organic compounds. Chronic exposure to RSPM can lead to acute pulmonary illness, asthma, cardiovascular disease, and lung cancer in people involved in cooking. Despite this, questions remain about the harmfulness of different particulate matter (PM) sources generated during cooking, and the factors influencing PM physico-chemical properties. The most reliable methods for sampling and analyzing cooking emissions remain only partially understood. Objectives: This review aims to comprehensively assess the risks of PM generated during cooking, considering the main sources of PM, PM chemical composition, and strategies for PM physico-chemical analysis. We present the first systematic analysis of PM sources and chemical composition related to cooking. We highlight significant differences between studies using different experimental conditions, with a lack of a standard methodology. Methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement rules and the Patient, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) strategy for scientific research, three different scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were screened to find scientific articles that measure, collect, and analyze the chemical composition of nanometer- and micrometer-sized PM generated during cooking activities under different conditions. Data are summarized to assess risk, evaluating the main sources and factors influencing PM generation, their chemical composition, and how they have been collected and analyzed in changing experimental conditions. Results: From 2474 search results, there were 55 studies that met our criteria. Overall, the main variable sources of PM in cooking activities relate to the stove and fuel type. The concentration and chemical–physical properties of PM are also strongly influenced by the food and food additive type, food processing type, cooking duration, temperature, and utensils. The most important factor influencing indoor PM concentration is ventilation. The PM generated during cooking activities is composed mainly of elemental carbon (EC) and its derivatives, and the porous structure of PM with high surface-to-volume ratio is a perfect carrier of inorganic and organic matter. Conclusions: This review reveals a growing interest in PM exposure during cooking activities and highlights significant variability in the chemical–physical properties of particles, and thus variable exposure risks. Precise risk characterization improves possible preventive strategies to reduce the risk of indoor pollutant exposure. However, comprehensive PM analysis needs proper sampling and analysis methods which consider all factors influencing the physico-chemical properties of PM in an additive and synergistic way. Our analysis highlights the need for method standardization in PM environmental analyses, to ensure accuracy and allow deeper comparisons between future studies.

Bitumen is a major construction material that can emit harmful fumes when heated. These fumes pose health risks to workers and communities near construction projects or asphalt mixing plants. The chemical complexity of bitumen fumes and the increasing use of additives add to the difficulty of analytically quantifying the harmful chemicals emitted using a single technique. Research on bitumen emissions consists of numerous sample preparation and analytical methods. There are a range of considerations to be made when deciding on an appropriate sample preparation method and instrumental configuration to optimise the analysis of specific organic contaminants in emissions. Researchers investigating emissions from bituminous materials may need to consider a range of analytical techniques to quantify harmful chemicals and assess the efficacy of new additives. This review summarises the primary methodologies for sample preparation and analytical techniques used in bitumen research and discusses future challenges and solutions.

Purpose: Case series on respiratory features of Aerotoxic Syndrome (AS). The term AS has been coined to describe the spectrum of clinical manifestations after aircraft fume events. Among these manifestations, neurological and respiratory symptoms are the most frequently reported complaints. Methods: Three cases of AS with relevant respiratory features are presented. Results: Cough and shortness of breath for 6 to12 months were the predominant symptoms in the first two cases. The first case also developed neurological symptoms affecting his central nervous system. In the third case, the patient complained for nine years about an unbearable cough triggered by odors, smells, and a variety of indoor and outdoor irritants, among other symptoms of multiple chemical sensitivity. In all three cases, the respiratory symptoms resolved after appropriate treatment. Conclusion: Our report aims at raising awareness on AS and calls for actions to improve the management of patients suffering from this syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Salt is a crucial mineral for human health, however, a salt factory may lead to hazardous pollutant exposure. Heavy metal fumes are considered toxic for human health. This study aimed to investigate concentration and assess health risks posed by toxic fumes in a salt factory. Materials and methods: Three units in the factory including salt laboratory, maintenance and metalworks were sampled for Arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co) and lead (Pb) according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, NIOSH7300 method, and analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometers (ICP-AES). Results: All hazardous levels of fumes were below the permissible limit. The highest concentration of toxic fumes (Cr) was found in the maintenance unit. With 0.0758 mg/m3, the highest total concentrations of heavy metals (tHM) was found in the maintenance unit (tHM for Salt laboratory=0.0281 mg/m3 and metalworks=0.0103 mg/m3). In salt laboratory, the metal fumes concentrations were ordered as Pb>As>Cd>Cr>Co; in maintenance unit: Cr>Pb>As>Co>Cd; in metalworks: Cr>As>Pb>Co>Cd. The total hazard quotient (tHQ) and lifetime cancer risk in salt laboratory unit were 5.11 and 4.93E-01, respectively; in maintenance the tHQ=9.35E+01 and LCR =5.90E-01; in metalworks tHQ=6.57 and LCR=4.95E-02. Conclusion: The pollutant levels were below the acceptable limit. Yet, the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks that they pose are not negligible. Therefore, enhancing the efficiency of the ventilation system and additional monitoring on wearing protective equipment as preventive strategies are proposed.

A novel laboratory methodology for analysing hot asphalt fumes from various paving materials is presented and evaluated. This method facilitates comparative assessments, aiming to enhance occupational safety for asphalt workers and ensure safe implementation of new paving materials. Comparative analyses of emissions to air were conducted on standard asphalt and rubber-modified asphalt at different temperatures. The temperature significantly influences PAH emissions. Rubber-modified asphalt demonstrated higher PAH emissions at equivalent temperatures compared to standard asphalt, predominantly naphthalene. Even heavier PAHs as benzo(a)pyrene were occasionally high. Notably, at recommended working temperatures the standard asphalt resulted in higher emissions, comprising heavier PAHs compared to rubber asphalt. [Display omitted] • New types of pavements and processes change the aerosols exposure of asphalt workers. • New laboratory method comparing fume emissions of from different asphalts during paving. • Contrary to traditional lab methods, fuming from rubber as substitute for aggregates in asphalt is covered in this method. • Working temperature during paving have large impact on measured emissions. • Different relative amounts and fingerprints of PAHs in fumes arise from tested paving materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is aimed to develop ultrananoporous polarized hydroxyapatite (HAp) catalyst and evaluate its performance in transforming CO 2 into useable ethanol considering three different scenarios: 1) a batch reaction using a mixture of CO 2 and CH 4 as feeding gas; 2) a batch reaction using as reactant exhaust gases captured from the fumes of diesel vehicles; and 3) a continuous flow reaction using pure CO 2 as feeding gas. Ultrananoporous HAp scaffolds were prepared using a four-step process: 1) as prepared HAp powder was mixed with 60% wt. of a commercial hydrogel at low-temperature; 2) the resulting paste was shaped at low temperature to reduce the adhesion between the metallic tools and the mixture, enhancing the homogeneity of the sample; 3) the shaped paste was calcined in air by applying 1000 ºC during 2 h to eliminate the hydrogel; and 4) an external DC electric field of 3 kV/cm was imposed at 1000 ºC during 1 h to the calcined scaffold. The resulting polarized scaffolds both ultrananoporosity and catalytic activation. Thus, the mass: volume ratio of the ultrananoporous catalyst was much lower than that of conventional HAp catalyst (718 vs 5093 g/L. Furthermore, the ethanol yield was much higher (up to a factor of ×21.4) for the ultrananoporous catalyst than for the compact one, allowing us to conclude that ultrananoporous polarized HAp catalyst is a promising technology for transforming CO 2 into valuable chemical products from highly polluted gases, especially those coming from road, sea and air transport. [Display omitted] • Ultrananoporous polarized hydroxyapatite (p-HAp) has been used as catalyst. • The density of such p-HAp catalyst is 7 times lower than that of the usual one. • Ultrananoporous p-HAp converts CO 2 emissions from vehicles into ethanol. • Ultrananoporosity increases the ethanol yield by a factor of ×21.4. • Ultrananoporous p-HAp largely improves emissions coming from road transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asphalt fumes released during pavement construction posed a threat to human health and environment. In this study, 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphorophenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) was used as a reactive fumes suppressant to reduce the asphalt fumes emission. The volatilization behavior of DOPO modified asphalt (DOPO-Asphalt) was investigated through thermogravimetric analysis, volatility test and thermal destruction gas chromatography mass spectrometry, and effect of DOPO on the chemical structure and composition of asphalt was explored through nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and asphalt component testing. The results indicated that 1.0 wt% DOPO reduced the fume content of control asphalt by 1.1% from 120 ℃ − 200 ℃ and the H 2 S and VOC content by 96.9% and 84.2%, respectively, at 180 ℃. Moreover, 1.0 wt% DOPO reduced the content of aliphatic hydrocarbons, hydrocarbon derivatives, aromatics, and sulfides in control asphalt fumes by 86.8%, 89.7%, 90.7%, and 93.5%, respectively, which may be attributed to electrophilic and nucleophilic reactions between DOPO and volatile substances in asphalt. Chemical structure and composition changing of DOPO-Asphalt confirmed that P-H bond in DOPO was chemically reacted with components in asphalt, generating stable aromatic hydrocarbons and resins. The results provided a novel method for inhibiting the volatilization of harmful substances in asphalt. [Display omitted] • DOPO can significantly reduce the VOCs and H 2 S in the fume of asphalt. • Effect of DOPO on the chemical structure and composition of asphalt was investigated. • The reactive fumes suppression mechanism of DOPO on asphalt has been explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During its investigations into a series of ten aircraft crashes from 1979 to 1981, US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) officials were presented with a hypothesis that “several” of the crashes could have been caused by pilot impairment from breathing oil fumes inflight. The NTSB and their industry partners ultimately dismissed the hypothesis. The authors reviewed the crash reports, the mechanics of the relevant engine oil seals, and some engine bleed air data to consider whether the dismissal was justified. Four of the nine aircraft crash reports include details which are consistent with pilot impairment caused by breathing oil fumes. None of the tests of ground-based bleed air measurements of a subset of oil-based contaminants generated in the engine type on the crashed aircraft reproduced the inflight conditions that the accident investigators had flagged as potentially unsafe. The NTSB’s conclusion that the hypothesis of pilot incapacitation was “completely without validity” was inconsistent with the evidence. Parties with a commercial conflict of interest should not have played a role in the investigation of their products. There is enough evidence that pilots can be impaired by inhaling oil fumes to motivate more stringent design, operation, and reporting regulations to protect safety of flight.

The research focuses on measurement of particle emissions during arc welding. The methodology of measurement follows the legal requirements of governmental regulation 361/2007 and relevant norms for welder exposure measurement, also approach used to evaluate outdoor air quality and automotive emissions were used. The exposure of students during welding classes never exceed the PEL limit. It was found out that legislation limit for welders, PEL, is rather high and can be easily met. In continuation, the particles size categorization done by cascade impactor and environmental dust monitor was done. We noticed many small particles and much less large particles, majority in sizes 0,1-1 µm, which can be easily breathed in and can enter blood stream. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The wide application of CTP is limited due to the presence of toxic PAHs. • Reduced the toxicity of CTP via alkylation chemical modification. • Modification process was investigated by alkylating model compounds. • The toxicity of CTP and MCTP was evaluated by introducing fumes and water-soluble substances. Coal-tar pitch (CTP) output in China has consistently exceeded 7 million tons annually since 2011. CTP contains 16 toxic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that are preferentially monitored by the American Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As a result, the widespread and extensive use of CTP is restricted. Consequently, finding ways to reduce the toxicity of CTP has become an urgent concern. In the paper, the reaction conditions were optimized using model compounds (naphthalene, fluorene, anthracene, phenanthrene, fluoranthene, pyrene, benzo [a]pyrene) of CTP. Subsequently, the CTP was modified through alkylation reaction using 1-dodecene, and the detoxification effect was evaluated based on chemical index, fumes, and water-soluble substances. The total content of 16 toxic PAHs in the modified CTP (MCTP) decreased by 75.56% compared to the original CTP. The toxicity equivalent quotient (TEQ) of the MCTP was reduced by more than 65% according to different environmental standards. The content of the 16 PAHs detected in MCTP fumes released at 140 °C decreased by 80.89%, while in water-soluble substances it decreased by 64.04% and 76.67% at 30 °C and 60 °C, respectively. These results strongly indicate the effectiveness of the alkylation method in reducing the toxicity of CTP. However, in order to develop more environmentally-friendly materials, it is necessary to explore more efficient catalysts and cheaper modifiers, which will be the focus of our future research. This study investigated the toxicity inhibition of CTP to reduce the content of PAHs by alkylation method. The modification process was analyzed using model compounds to understand the potential reaction pathways. The objective of toxicity inhibition was achieved by creating low-toxicity and long-chain alkyl substitutes. Additionally, the toxicity of CTP and MCTP was assessed by introducing fumes and water-soluble substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A study aimed to estimate the burden of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) caused by occupational exposure to particulate matter, gases, and fumes in 204 countries from 1990 to 2019., Methods: Data on the deaths number, age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR), and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rates (ASDR) of COPD attributable to occupational particulate matter, gases, and fumes were collected from the GBD study 2019. We also investigated the association between the ASDR and SDI., Results: There were 517.7 thousand deaths [95% UI: 413.9 to 634.5] in 2019. The number of deaths increased from 1990 to 2019. The ASMR and ASDR were 6.61 (5.24 to 8.17) and 143.02 (118.56 to 168.69) in 2019, respectively, representing a 46% and 44.5% decrease since 1990. China had the highest number of deaths [200,748.4 (151,897.6 to 260,703.9)], while Nepal had the highest ASMR [39 (27.7 to 50)] and ASDR [724.5 (549 to 894.2)]. Males and females 75-79 and 80-84 years old had the highest number of COPD deaths. A negative correlation was observed when SDI > 0.4, whereas a positive correlation was found when SDI < 0.4., Conclusion: From 1990 to 2019, there was an increase in the number of deaths, but a decline in ASMR and ASDR globally. Besides, there was a heterogeneous burden of COPD attributable to occupational particulate matter, gases, and fumes across regions and countries. It is important to develop and implement strategies to prevent and reduce the burden of COPD attributable to occupational particulate matter, gases, and fumes., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest in this work., (© 2023 Su et al.)

Welding processes produce fumes which are known to be dangerous to human health. In order for welders to work in a safe environment, a means of removing these fumes from the welding environment must be provided during the welding process. This is the purpose for which this paper has been developed. Fume extractors are generally known to be fixed to the walls of factories and places where fumes need to be extracted from. With the increase in welding needs outside the workshop environment, the need to have mobile fume extractors has become imperative. This need has been addressed in this paper. Materials for design and fabrication of the fume extractor were selected based on cost, safety, functionality, ease of availability and affordable maintainability. The fabricated fume extractor was tested on several welding sites and found to be very effective in extracting fumes from welders breathing zone. It was also observed that the function of the extractor did not adversely affect the welding process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bitumen is classed as possibly carcinogenic to humans according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Data on individual exposure to bitumen fumes is therefore required to highlight the exposing situations and develop methods to prevent them. The Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA) and the French National Research and Safety Institute for the Prevention of Occupational Accidents and Diseases (INRS) have both developed methods to measure individual exposure. The objective of this study was to determine a conversion factor to allow interconversion of data acquired by the two methods. To develop this conversion factor, comparative laboratory and workplace tests were performed according to both the IFA method (No. 6305) and the INRS method (MetroPol M-2). The amounts of organic material collected on the filters and XAD-2 beds were compared. The results revealed differences between the sampling and analytical methods that could be linked to sampler design, extraction solvent, and the detection method used. The total quantification returned by the two methods—the sum of the masses quantified on filter and XAD-2 bed for each sampler—were correlated in both controlled and real-life tests. A conversion equation was therefore determined, based on field tests: C IFA = 1.76 C INRS ± 0.39 (R 2 = 0.99) that is applicable to total quantification data. This formula can be applied to data acquired by the two institutes to increase the number of data points available on exposure to bitumen fumes in various conditions, and thus increase the statistical power of studies into occupational prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Welding fume exposure can increase the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the optimal grouping schemes of welding fume exposure in shipyard welders for future accurate examination of the association between welding fume exposure and COPD. Industrial hygiene records, including welding fume measurements between 2002 and 2009 were collected from a shipyard. A total of 2,360 personal welding fume measurements was compiled with a geometric mean of 1.66 mg/m3 and a geometric standard deviation of 4.02. Welding jobs were categorized into 8 groups. There were 9 working areas. To obtain the optimal grouping scheme, various grouping schemes were created using job, area, and job*area combination. To compare various grouping schemes, contrast and precision were calculated for each grouping scheme. For all measurement data, group mean ranking method created by ranking geometric means of the job*area combination into 3 groups (group mean ranking method) showed the best contrast and precision values among various grouping schemes, followed by grouping based on the job. For a subset of the data excluding job*area combinations with less than 10 measurements, grouping based on the job showed greater contrast than group mean ranking method, while for other subsets, including only repeated measurement data or further excluding job*area combinations with less than 10 measurements from the repeated measurement subset, group mean ranking method showed greater contrast than grouping based on the job. Our results showed that group mean ranking or grouping based on the job could be a candidate for the optimal grouping schemes in this shipyard. Our efforts for optimal grouping scheme may aid future cohort study to elucidate the association between welding fume exposure and COPD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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When assessing cancer hazard and risk associated with a complex petroleum substance, like bitumen emissions, there are often conflicting results related to human, animal and mechanistic studies. Validation of the complex composition to assure that it matches real-world exposures and control of confounders are pivotal factors in study design to allow the necessary read-across during assessments. Several key studies on bitumen emissions in two-year dermal cancer assays reported variable outcomes ranging from high cancer incidence to no cancer incidence. Here, we synthesize findings from published studies to explain the differences and discuss critical factors in cancer hazard evaluation for complex petroleum substances. Using these critical factors, we reviewed relevant human genetic toxicity, mammalian toxicity and mechanistic studies with bitumen to understand the divergence in results. We assess the most reliable and scientifically supported information on the potential carcinogenic hazards of bitumen emissions and comment on quality and completeness of data. Human hazard data are typically considered highest priority because they eliminate the need for interspecies extrapolation and reduce the range of high -to low-dose extrapolation during the risk assessment process. Finally, two well-conducted comprehensive animal studies are discussed that have well-defined test material, exposure concentration and composition representative of worker exposure, evidence of systemic uptake, no confounding exposures and provide consistency across all elements within both studies. Studies that allow effective read-across from human, animal and mechanistic components, control for confounders and are well-validated analytically against workplace exposures, provide the strongest evidence base for evaluating cancer hazard. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Huelva’s copper mines (Spain) have been active for centuries but in the second half of the nineteenth century extractive activities in Riotinto, Tharsis, and other mines in the region were intensified in order to reach world leadership. The method used in these mines for copper extraction from low grade ores generated continuous emissions of fumes that were extremely controversial. The inhabitants had complained about the fumes for decades but as activity intensified so did complaints. The killing of anti-fumes demonstrators in 1888 led to the passing of a Royal Decree banning the open-air roasting of ore and to the drafting of numerous reports on the hazards of the fumes. Major state and provincial medical institutions, as well as renowned hygienists and engineers, took part in the assessment, contributing to a scientific controversy especially rich in content. In my paper I will analyse the production and circulation of knowledge and ignorance about the impact of fumes on public health, as well as the role of medical experts and expertise in the controversy. The analysis will focus on the reports drafted between the 1888 ban and its 1890 repeal, and will show the changing nature of the expert assessment and the numerous paths followed by experts in producing ignorance. The paper will conclude by considering other stakeholders, who may shed some light on the reasons behind the performance of the medical experts. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Context: Exposure to various types of fumes and gases are very common in Jewelery industries. No Report is available regarding the effects of those fumes and gases on the respiratory functions of the goldsmiths. Due to lack of proper monitoring of the workplace environments in these unorganized sectors, workers get very much affected by the occupational exposures to those irritants. Aims: The present study aimed to investigate whether the occupational exposures to fumes and gases might alter the lung functions of the goldsmiths. Materials and Methods: A total of 118 goldsmiths and 66 unexposed control subjects were taken randomly for the study. The goldsmiths were further classified in 3 groups according to duration (year) of exposures in the work environment, ETA 1 (less than 5 years), ETA 2 (more than 5 years but less than 10 years), and ETA 3 (more than 10 years). Peak expiratory flow rates (PEFR), forced vital capacity (FVC), and forced expiratory flow rates of different intervals (FEF 25% , FEF 50% , FEF 75% , FEF 25-75% ) were measured using computerized Spirometer (Maestros Mediline, India). The statistical analyses were carried out using Minitab software version 3. Results: Lung functions of the goldsmiths significantly (P < 0.01) decreased from that of the control group. Inter-group comparison also showed the deteriorations of lung functions was associated with exposure time, and more exposed workers had significantly less (P < 0.01) efficiencies of lung functions. Conclusions: Workplace fumes and gases were responsible for deterioration of the lung function status of the goldsmiths.

Objective: This study was performed to determine the effects of solder fume on liverserum markers and vascular elements in ratsMaterials and Methods: A total number of 48 rats were randomly divided into experimental(n=30) and control (n=18) groups. Based on exposure time, each group wasfurther divided into 2, 4 and 6 weeks of exposure subgroups. Rats in the experimentalsubgroups were placed in an exposure chamber and exposed to solder fume for onehour per day. The concentration of metal fumes and gases in the exposure chamberwere measured daily by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Blood and liver sampleswere collected from all rats in the experimental and control subgroups to determinethe concentration of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase,as well as total and conjugated bilirubin levels. Histological examinationsof specimens were performed under a stage-micrometer calibrated microscope.Results: Despite some alterations in enzyme and bilirubin levels between control andexperimental groups, the differences were not statistically significant. However, histopathologicalexaminations of liver tissues revealed significant differences in the diametersof cross sectioned sinusoids of rats in the 4-week experimental and controlsubgroups (p

Novel "ECO Mg" alloys, i.e., CaO-added Mg alloys, which exhibit oxidation resistance during melting and casting processes, even without the use of beryllium or toxic protection gases such as SF6, have recently been introduced. Research on ECO Mg alloys is still continuing, and their application as welding filler metals was investigated in this study. Mechanical and metallurgical aspects of the weldments were analysed after welding, and welding behaviours such as fume generation and droplet transfer were observed during welding. The tensile strength of welds was slightly increased by adding CaO to the filler metal, which resulted from the decreased grain size in the weld metal. When welding Mg alloys, fumes have been unavoidable so far because of the low boiling temperature of Mg. Fume reduction was successfully demonstrated with a wire composed of the novel ECO Mg filler. In addition, stable droplet transfer was observed and spatter suppression could be expected by using CaO-added Mg filler wire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]