Workers exposed to silica dust much more likely to die: Study

Silica dust exposure was linked to higher risks of
death from all causes.

Long-term exposure to silica dust puts industrial workers at a substantially higher risk of death from all causes than workers who have not been exposed, researchers say.

And the risk of death from lung and cardiovascular disease increases with increasing exposure.

Researchers in China examined 74,040 workers at different metal mines and pottery factories between 1960 and 1974, and followed up until the end of 2003.

Their results showed that death from all causes was much higher among workers who have been exposed to silica dust compared to workers who were not.

The more exposure they had, the bigger the risk of death from all causes, including respiratory diseases, respiratory tuberculosis and cardiovascular disease.

The researchers estimated that in 2008, 4.2% of deaths among industrial workers in China could be linked to silica dust exposure.

The findings add persuasive power to calls for improved occupational safety standards for workers exposed to silica dust, not only in China, but in all parts around the world.

The findings were published in PLoS Medicine.

Source: Public Library of Science

Protect workers by controlling dust

Even at or just below acceptable levels of silica dust, exposure may affect workers’ health and well-being.

Personal protective equipment, training and air cleaning can help protect workers from excessive dust exposure.

Electrocorp offers portable, ceiling-mountable and highly versatile air cleaners for industrial and commercial applications that can remove dust and particles from the air.

These include units recommended for wood shops and similar dust-heavy working environments that feature the best HEPA filters, easily cleanable bag filters and the most effective particle filters for any situation.

Many Electrocorp air cleaners can also easily be turned from particle to chemical filtration if the need arises.

For more information, please contact Electrocorp.
  

Occupational risks: Police officer sues over chemical exposure

A police officer says he inhaled a lot of
ammonia gas and developed cancer.

In Hammond, Louisiana, a police officer has filed a lawsuit claiming that he developed cancer 10 days after being exposed to a large amount of ammonia gas.

In a Louisiana Record article, the police officer filed the lawsuit against a dairy farm and the associated businesses as well as the insurance and leasing companies.

The claim says that significant quantities of ammonia gas leaked from the dairy processing center or the distribution center on July 11, 2010. When the police officer arrived at the scene, he inhaled large amounts of the ammonia gas and had to be taken to the hospital to be treated for chemical burns to his mouth, nasal passages, lungs and trachea.

The lawsuit alleges that 10 days after the incident, the police officer discovered cancer in his lymph nodes, which according to the claimant metastasized from a small tumor on his tongue as a result of the chemical burns.

The lawsuit charges that the defendants failed to design and build the facilities in a proper and safe manner, and that it wasn’t operated and maintained properly.

The police officer is seeking damages for medical expenses, loss of earnings, loss of earning capacity, physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, disability and disfigurement, loss of consortium, court costs and interest.

Source: Louisiana Record


Industrial air cleaners for the removal of airborne chemicals and gases

Electrocorp has designed industrial-strength air scrubbers of all types and sizes to help owners, managers and workers remove indoor air pollutants in environments where chemicals, gases, fumes or particles may affect people’s health and well-being.

Solutions include air cleaners for

• Chemical processing plants
• Law enforcement
• Facility management
• Odor control
• Laboratory air quality, and many more

The air cleaners are equipped with deep-bed activated carbon filters with enormous adsorption strength, a HEPA or micro-HEPA filter for particles, pre-filters and UV germicidal filtration (optional) for the neutralization of bacteria, viruses and mold.

Electrocorp has worked with various companies, government agencies and other clients to give them the right air cleaner, the most effective carbon blend and the most useful features.

Contact Electrocorp for more information and a personalized solution to your IAQ concerns.
  

Employee health and safety - OSHA obligations

Failure to follow health and safety guidelines
can lead to costly litigation and bad PR.

Keeping employees healthy and safe is a primary mandate for most employers - failure to do so can result in costly litigation, damaged reputations and loss of confidence in the public eye.

Thankfully, certain regulations are in place that make it easier for employers to know what their obligations are.

With the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.

Workers are entitled to working conditions that do not pose a risk of serious harm. To help assure a safe and healthful workplace, OSHA also provides workers with the right to:

• Receive information and training about hazards, methods to prevent harm, and the OSHA standards that apply to their workplace. The training must be in a language you can understand;
• Observe testing that is done to find hazards in the workplace and get test results;
• Review records of work-related injuries and illnesses;
• Get copies of their medical records;
• Request OSHA to inspect their workplace; and
• Use their rights under the law free from retaliation and discrimination.

Health and safety obligations under OSHA

Be familiar with OSHA guidelines. As an employer, you need to be sure that you are following OSHA guidelines, which are federal law. In particular, you need to be able to know what guidelines and regulations are applicable to your workplace, and have copies available for employees who request them.

Keep records of injuries and illnesses. Businesses with 11 employees or more at any time during a calendar year are required to keep records of occupational injuries and illnesses. Some businesses are not required to keep records, such as those in retail trade, finance, insurance, real estate and service industries.

Display OSHA's Safe and Healthful workplaces poster. Employers are required to post this poster, or its state equivalent, somewhere where employees can look over the information.

Inform employees about hazardous chemicals. If your business uses hazardous chemicals, you need to inform your employees about these hazards and train them on proper safeguards.

Remember that your business is subject to inspection. Employees have the right to contact a local or state OSHA office to request an inspection if there is a hazard or danger in the workplace.

The above list is not exhaustive of all employer obligations under OSHA - certain industries may have different or more elaborate health and safety obligations.

Source: FindLaw.com

Indoor air quality is a major health and safety issue 

With more and more complaints and lawsuits being filed against employers for serious health conditions due to chemical exposure and polluted indoor air (see list below), companies need to make sure that the work environment is safe and free of IAQ concerns.

Most existing ventilation systems are unable to remove harmful pollutants from the ambient air, but rather than spending a lot of money on a new ventilation system, Electrocorp air cleaners offer a cost-effective, portable and versatile air purifying solution that can remove the widest range of airborne chemicals, odors, vapors, fumes, particles and pathogens.

The multistage filtration system uses a large granular activated carbon (GAC) filter, HEPA or micro-HEPA, UV germicidal filtration (optional) and particle-trapping pre-filters.

The Electrocorp product line includes portable and HVAC-compatible air cleaners for industrial and commercial applications of all kinds (and sizes).

Contact Electrocorp today for more information: 1-866-667-0297.

Related posts

• Ruling stands that benzene caused laborer's leukemia
• Worker blames chemical exposure to rare lung disease, wins lawsuit
• Man with asbestosis awarded $322 million in asbestos lawsuit
• Health and safety lawsuits: US drug firm pleads guilty in lab worker's death

     

Respiratory disease widespread in Middle East, study shows

Desert climate, chemical warfare, water-pipe smoking contribute to lung diseases

Lung diseases in the Middle East range from the centuries-old pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) to modern manifestations caused by chemical warfare, according to a recent press release.

A new paper in Respirology, a journal of the Asian Pacific Society of Respirology, provides pulmonologists and patients with the first comprehensive review of respiratory illnesses specific to the Persian Gulf region, and the challenges in treating them.

Lung diseases affect many individuals
in Middle Eastern countries

A wide spectrum of pulmonary disorders affect individuals living in the Middle East, including bronchial and pleural diseases, respiratory tract infections and neoplasms (tumors), as well as chest traumas caused by traffic accidents.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Burden of Disease Report there were 114,000 deaths caused by TB; 407,000 from respiratory infection; 25,000 attributed to lung, trachea and bronchus cancers; and 160,000 associated with respiratory disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and asthma in the Eastern Mediterranean Region1 in 2008.

"The wealth of pulmonary pathologies encountered in the Middle East probably surpasses all other regions of the world," explains lead author Dr. Atul Mehta, Chief Medical Officer at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

"Our paper highlights the diverse conditions specific to this region that contribute to the variety of respiratory illnesses found among individuals living in Middle Eastern countries."

Study cites various causes of lung diseases

Major categories covered in the review include environmental factors, infections, genetic-idiopathic diseases, sleep disorders, lung malignancies, pleural diseases, and miscellaneous respiratory conditions.

For example, the vast desert area of the Middle East experience extreme temperature changes which can exacerbate chronic lung diseases such as asthma.

The frequent wars in the Middle East have included chemical ammunitions that can cause immediate lung damage and have potential long-term effects, ranging from bronchiolitis to "desert-storm pneumonitis."

Additionally, water-pipe smoking, which is unique to the Gulf region and on the rise, particularly in women and children, has been linked to pulmonary disease, coronary heart disease, and pregnancy-related complication in preliminary studies.

Cultural and environmental factors to blame

The authors suggest the broad array of lung disorders can be attributed to the large immigrant population and unique cultural and environmental conditions in the region.

"An integrated approach that involves public health, primary care, and pulmonary specialists is required to ensure effective management of the various lung diseases in the Persian Gulf," concluded Dr. Mehta.

"Consideration of the unique cultural and environmental factors will aid clinicians and public health officials in combating these health issues and ensuring compliance to medical care to improve patient outcomes."

Please note: WHO's Eastern Mediterranean Region includes health statistics from countries that include Afghanistan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Djibouti, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, The Occupied Territories, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, U.A.E., and Yemen Arab Republic. 

Worried about the indoor air quality in your home or workplace?

Electrocorp offers a wide range of portable, high-efficiency air cleaners for

Home and office air cleaners for
particle and chemical filtration.

• Homes and offices (see AllerAir's residential line of air purifiers)
• Facility Management
• Large offices and office printers
• Odor and heavy odor control
• Hotels and the hospitality industry
• Hospitals and healthcare institutions
• Dental clinics
• Laboratories
• Schools and Universities
• and many more...

Contact one of Electrocorp's IAQ experts at 1-866-667-0297.
  

Metal fume fever a persisting problem, toxicologists say

Welding fume extractors help remove
dangerous fumes.

“Monday morning fever” – metal fume fever – is a persisting problem, despite changes in modern-day work practices, researchers say. Workers in the home and also students doing metal work are at great risk.

First described in 1822, it is a disease which may have been forgotten by GPs and ED doctors but is well known to toxicologists.

Dr Anselm Wong and colleagues from the Emergency Department at Melbourne’s Austin Hospital and Victorian Poisons Information Center analyzed all metal fume fever-related calls to the Victorian Poisons Information Centre between June 2005 and December 2010.

Among the study's findings:

• They found 85 reported exposures, mostly in males (82 – 96% of cases).
• Almost all (84 – 99%) of these calls were about adults.
• Most (81 – 95%) of the callers reported symptoms occurring within 24 hours, and 53% of the exposures occurred in the workplace.
• The most frequent days of exposure with symptoms were Monday (20 – 24%) and Tuesday (18 – 21%).
• The most common symptoms were fever, headache, and chills.
• All of the calls were people involved in welding metal, zinc being the most common (38%).

The researchers concluded that metal fume fever may still be a public health issue and potentially an indicator of poor work place practices.

Chronic respiratory disease is the fourth leading cause of death of Australasians and this study is an indicator that further efforts are required to ensure safe workplace practice and minimise potentially harmful exposures.

“In the workplace, prevention is the key to this disease – such as avoidance of direct contact with toxic metal fumes, improved engineering controls including exhaust ventilation systems, personal protective equipment such as respirators, and education of workers on the features of the disease.

“However, people in the workshop at home or students doing metal work may not have access to all of these.”

Source: Australasian College for Emergency Medicine

Remove dangerous fumes at the source with a portable air cleaner

Electrocorp has designed air filtration systems with source capture attachments that are specifically designed for metal fumes, welding fumes and soldering fumes.

Contact Electrocorp to speak to an air quality experts and find out more the welding fume extractors and customizable options.

Dangers of asbestos: Widow blames lung cancer on husband's exposure at work

Companies need to keep workers'
health and safety in mind -
or they may face costly litigation.

The widow of a man who recently died of lung cancer has filed a lawsuit against the company that employed him for exposing him to asbestos.

According to an article in The Record in April, Katherine Jackson filed a lawsuit in St. Clair County Circuit Court against Illinois Central Railroad, alleging that the exposure caused her deceased husband’s fatal condition.

Jackson alleges her recently deceased husband, Claudy Jackson, worked as a fireman for the railroad company from 1948 until 1951. 

During that time, Claudy Jackson was exposed to asbestos, diesel exhaust, environmental tobacco smoke, silica, welding fumes, toxic dusts, gases and other fumes, according to the complaint.

As a result of his exposure, Claudy Jackson experienced great pain, disability, mental anguish and nervousness and incurred medical costs, the suit states, and on April 26, 2008, Claudy Jackson died after a battle against lung cancer.

His wife claims the company did not follow proper health and safety procedures and is seeking a judgment of more than $200,000, plus costs.

Source: The Record

The dangers of asbestos exposure

The WHO identifies asbestos as one of the most dangerous occupational carcinogens, declaring the need to eliminate asbestos use and associated health damages. An estimated 107,000 people worldwide die from asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos is a mineral fiber commonly used for insulation in constructions. It is relatively affordable, which makes it attractive in developing countries.

Asbestos-related lung diseases, particularly mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis (asbestos induced lung fibrosis), typically develop after decades of lag time from first exposure.

Protect workers' health and safety with powerful air cleaners

Air purifiers and major air filtration systems from Electrocorp designed for mold and asbestos abatement projects can help keep the indoor air clean by removing chemicals, particles, fibers and gases from the air with a large activated carbon filter and a HEPA filter.

Electrocorp's air cleaners use only safe and proven filtration technologies. Contact Electrocorp for more information.

Related posts

• Asbestos and radon among hidden dangers for renovation contractors and workers
• Asbestos lawsuits awards $322 million to man with asbestosis
• Asbestos: The hidden health hazard in many homes
• Asbestos lawsuit results in $9 million for former employee
• Avoid release of toxic substances during home energy retrofits, experts urge

  
 

RAP Series: Robust air cleaners with a small-footprint design

Electrocorp's RAP Series:
Powerful air cleaners

Electrocorp’s Radial Air Purifiers (RAP) series features some of the most versatile and effective air cleaners in the company’s diverse lineup of industrial-strength air purifiers.

The RAPs are available in different sizes, from 23.5” height x 12” diameter up to 62” height and 22” diameter. They feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter for the removal of chemicals, gases and odors as well as an electrostatic particle filter or a Super-HEPA.

The powerful micro-HEPA + carbon combination gives these air cleaners one of the largest and most extensive adsorbent areas, allowing them to capture odor-causing pollutants more efficiently than other units.

The RAP air cleaners can accommodate 15 to 120 pound activated carbon filters and can be customized even more with regards to the filter media and carbon blends.

Around-the-clock air cleaning

The RAP units are portable, free-standing, plug-and-go air purifiers with a round design for maximum efficiency.  They are engineered for around-the-clock operation with a quiet, modern design.

The main body of the air purifier is covered by metal mesh housing, combining a large-volume air intake with robust and protective features.

RAP air cleaners can have a UV
lamp for added protection.

The overall design and capabilities of the RAP Series makes these units the best choice for clients who need fast and effective chemical and odor relief and who are concerned about biological contaminants such as mold spores, bacteria and viruses, since the RAPs can also be equipped with a UV light.


Recommended industries for the RAP air filters:

• Individuals or companies who want a super-adsorbent unit with chemical and gas adsorption, plus UV germicidal filtration
• Law Enforcement agencies
• Art Conservation and restoration
• Funeral Homes and Embalming
• Hospitals and Healthcare
• Laboratories
• Laser Engraving and Cutting
• Pulp and Paper Mills
• Equipment rental places
• Retirement Homes
• Schools and Universities
• Any commercial or industrial setting where odors, chemicals or gases are an issue (odor control)

Electrocorp is a leader in the research and development of complete and reliable air quality management solutions for industrial and commercial applications.

For more information, visit electrocorp.net or call 1.888.667.0297.


Find out more about Electrocorp's air filtration systems:

• RSU Series
• I-6500 Series
• SSU Series
• AirRhino

Air Rhino: The most versatile and innovative air cleaner of its class

Air Rhino: Powerful particle filtration
and/or chemical, gas and odor removal.

Electrocorp’s Air Rhino is the most versatile air filtration system of its kind, with a small ecological footprint.

This innovative machine has interchangeable carbon and HEPA filters, so it can easily convert from a rugged chemical, gas and odor scrubber to a powerful particulate air cleaner right on site. 

The Air Rhino is capable of creating a negative air environment, and it is equipped with an industrious deep-bed carbon filter and extended filter depth, which leads to a longer dwell time for contaminated air and allows for quicker and more thorough adsorption of gaseous pollutants.

Electrocorp's Air Rhino
(upright)

The Air Rhino also features an advanced medical-grade HEPA filter to trap 99.97% of particles, and can accommodate an ultraviolet light to remove bacteria and other airborne pathogens.

The operator-friendly air purification system comes with particle pre-filters to prevent clogging as well as a pressure switch that tells you when the filters are saturated. 

The meticulous air scrubber can be used in stationary applications for long-term air cleaning, or on job sites for remediation projects and environmental clean-ups. As well, it can be used as a portable, stand-alone unit, or it can be attached to the ceiling.

It is a great air filtration system for heavy-dust environments, industrial odor control, construction and restoration, mold and asbestos remediation sites, auto body shops and garages, manufacturing plants and warehouses, among other applications.

Contact us for more information and follow us on Twitter. For technical specifications, please select the Air Rhino Series on the Electrocorp website.
 

Welder sues after becoming covered in chemicals

Welders need to protect them-
selves from dangerous fumes.

Welding is an important yet dangerous job that exposes workers to heat,  intense light, poisonous gases and fumes.

But it becomes even more dangerous if welders have to work on containers with hazardous materials - especially if they don't know about the toxic substances inside.

This is allegedly what happened to a welder, who has filed a claim against a chemical company. The worker claims he was not warned by the company that the tank he was cutting contained chemicals.

Samuel P. Chaisson filed suit against Hexion Specialty Chemicals Inc. n/k/a Momentive Specialty Chemicals Inc. and Momentive Specialty Chemicals Inc. on April 21 in federal court in New Orleans.

The alleged incident occurred on April 22, 2010.

According to the complaint, the tank contained chemicals which spilled out of the tank and knocked Chaisson off his feet. Chaisson states he sustained severe and disabling injuries when he was knocked down and covered with the chemical.

The defendants are accused of negligence, malice and a conscious indifference to the rights and safety of Chaisson.

The plaintiff is seeking damages for physical pain and mental anguish, lost earnings, loss of earning capacity, disfigurement, physical impairment, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of household services, interest, court costs and punitive damages.

For more information about the case, read the article in the Louisiana Record.


Fume extractors capture toxins at the source

Electrocorp's Fume Extractor Series
with source capture arm.

When it comes to choosing the right air purifier or fume extractor for welders, an industrial-strength activated carbon + HEPA filtration system has been proven to counteract harmful toxins and particles.

Electrocorp’s specially designed air filtration systems for welding fume extraction feature portable, powerful units that capture many toxic fumes at the source, directly at the work station.

They adsorb gases and chemicals in a deep bed of activated carbon, using 40 to 80 pounds of this efficient filtration media.

The units are designed for TIG, MIG and arc welding operations and they feature a spark arrestor, flexible arm and optional custom carbon blends.

Electrocorp also offers air purifiers specifically designed for soldering applications, including a tabletop unit with an intake hood and a smoke particle filter as well as an activated charcoal filter.

Air purifiers by Electrocorp can easily be modified and converted to purify the air in any industrial and commercial environment.
   

Media bias against workers in dangerous jobs, reporter claims

Worker health and safety
remains a serious issue.

Is the deck stacked against workers in hazardous industries?

Quite so, according to senior reporter Jim Morris, who explained the dilemma in a lecture before he received the Upton Sinclair Memorial Award for Outstanding EHS Investigative Reporting.

"In my reporting over the years, I've sometimes detected an odd bias [in the media] against those who work in the oil and gas fields, refineries, commercial fishing, and similar dangerous occupations," he said.

"It's as if it is tragic but hardly shocking when workers in these industries die. 'They knew what they were getting into, didn't they?' It's a stunning bias and lack of compassion."

Morris has written about the dangers of working in certain industries, including lung disease, cancer in the PVC industry, manganese risks from welding fumes and the marketing of the asbestos trade in the developing world.

His stories focused on individual experiences and put it into perspective with the help of statistics, documents, data and quotes.

Closing his lecture, titled "'Why Should I Care?' Humanizing Worker Safety in the Media," Morris said industrial hygiene professionals have a role in media coverage that can positively influence worker safety and health.

"Journalists usually don't know about the emerging threats," he told the audience of about 250 attendees. "I and other journalists rely on information from people like you for the story. It can have a powerful impact."

Source: OHS Online

Learn more about the dangers of welding fumes and benefits of welding fume extractors:

• Welding hazards: Protect yourself from welding fumes and soldering fumes
• Manganese affects front regions of brains, too
• Study probes effect of dust and welding fumes on women
• Welders may be at increased risk of developing brain damage
• Sick welder sues welding rod manufacturers

Find out more about working with dangerous chemicals and air filtration systems designed to target specific pollutants.

• Health and safety claims: US drug firm sued in lab worker's death
• Protect yourself from explosive chemicals
• Chemical exposure caused heart and lung problems, suit claims

Read about asbestos exposure and recent lawsuits and verdicts.

• Asbestos lawsuit awards $322 million to man with asbestosis
• Asbestos: The hidden health hazard in many homes
• Asbestos lawsuit results in $9 million award for former worker
    

SSU Series – an air filtration system for large-volume air handling

The SSU Series is a highly versatile and
configurable air cleaner for large spaces.

In spacious areas where conventional air purifiers hardly make a difference, Electrocorp’s SSU (Square Scrubbing Unit) Series has emerged as an industry-leading system to remove airborne chemicals, gases, odors and particles quickly and effectively.

The custom-built, modular air filtration system can be constructed with up to three tiers. It is uniquely suited to remove pollutants from spacious, high-ceilinged indoor environments such as processing plants and warehouses since it can hang from the ceiling or stand on the ground.


Versatile air cleaner

Its versatility extends to the filtration media, as the SSU can be configured to draw the air through HEPA only, activated carbon only or a combination of the two.

With eight refillable cartridges, the SSU accommodates up to 576 lbs. of activated carbon, the safest and most effective filter media to adsorb chemicals, gases and odors. It moves a lot of air, with up to 5000 delivered CFM.

The SSU can be configured for three distinct functions:

1. Scrub and circulate the entire air volume in a large space. The SSU draws contaminated air in through the sides of the unit and ejects clean air towards the ceiling.
2. Scrub contaminated air via ducting. In this setup, the SSU draws in the contaminated air through ducts directly from the source pushes it through the filters and releases clean air through the sides of the unit.
3. Scrub contaminated air and direct the clean air into another room via ducting. In this configuration, the SSU draws in air through the sides of the unit and releases purified air into another room through ducts.

The SSU is ideally suited for the food processing or chemical processing industry, printing and graphics, pharmaceuticals and any other applications where large rooms with high ceilings need to be cleaned of dust particles, chemicals and strong odors.

Contact Electrocorp to find out more and get a customized solution to help solve your specific IAQ problem.

Men and women react differently when exposed to dangerous substances at work

Worker health and safety:
Gender differences in
exposure patterns

Occupational health research should take the behavioral differences between men and women in the same field into account, a survey conducted by the Centre for Public Health Research of Massey University in New Zealand suggests.

A paper authored by Amanda Engl and several co-authors outlines the gender differences in occupational exposure patterns. The researchers surveyed men and women aged 20 to 64 years that were randomly selected from the electoral roll.

The participants revealed self-reported occupational exposure to specific dusts and chemicals, physical exposures and organizational factors.

The survey showed that overall, male workers were two to four times more likely to report exposure to dust and chemical substances, loud noise, irregular hours, night shifts and vibrating tools.

Women were 30 percent more likely to report repetitive tasks and working at high speed, and they were more likely to report exposure to disinfectants, hair dyes and textile dust.

Within the same occupation, gender differences were less apparent, but male workers were still more likely to report exposure to welding fumes, herbicides, wood dust, solvents, tools that vibrate, irregular hours and night-shift work.

Women remained more likely to report repetitive tasks and working at high speed, and in addition were more likely to report awkward or tiring positions compared with men with the same occupation.

This population-based study showed substantial differences in occupational exposure patterns between men and women, even within the same occupation. Thus, the influence of gender should not be overlooked in occupational health research, the authors concluded.

Protect workers from exposure to harmful toxins

Electrocorp has been designing and manufacturing commercial and industrial air filtration systems since 1985 for a wide range of industries, including welding and soldering, hospitals and healthcare, laboratories, art conservation and restoration, woodshops and environmental consulting.

Contact one of our air quality experts to find the right indoor air solution for your needs.

Chemicals need to be tested more, say scientists

Thousands of chemicals are being registered
with the American Chemical Society each day.

Eight societies from the fields of genetics, reproductive medicine, endocrinology, developmental biology and others have written a letter in the journal Science to say that some 12,000 new chemicals are registered with the American Chemical Society daily.

While only a fraction of them make it into the environment, the US Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) still don’t have all the pertinent information about the types of chemicals that are produced in large quantities.

According to the Health and Medicine News article, the letter states, "The need for swifter and sounder testing and review procedures cannot be overstated.”

The scientists urge the top two federal regulators to evaluate more than the toxicity of chemicals with the help of a variety of experts, who can help interpret available data to determine how the chemicals are affecting humans. They suggest enlisting the help of geneticists, developmental and reproductive biologists and clinicians.


Chemical testing lags behind

"As things stand now," the article quotes Patricia Hunt, a professor in the Washington State University School of Molecular Biosciences and corresponding author of the letter, "things get rapidly into the marketplace and the testing of them is tending to lag behind."

The scientists are especially concerned about chemicals like the plasticizer bisphenol A (BPA) and others that mimic the effects of hormones.

"Hormones control everything -- our basic metabolism, our reproduction," she said. "We call them endocrine disruptors. They're like endocrine bombs to a certain extent because they can disrupt all these normal functions."

Because of growing health concerns, BPA has been widely outlawed in children’s food containers, bottles and drinking cups, but they are still exposed to a wide variety of chemicals in products, water and air.

Source: http://www.healthmagdaily.com/risks-of-chemical-exposure-scientists-call-for-swifter-and-sounder-testing-of-chemicals.html

If you want to improve the air quality at your work or at home, contact one of our air quality experts to find out more about our complete air cleaning solutions for chemical, odor and particle control.

RSU Series – versatile air purifiers for odor removal

RSU Series: Get rid of odors fast
with these powerful air purifiers.

Electrocorp’s Radial Scrub Unit (RSU) series represents one of the most versatile and effective series in the company’s diverse lineup of industrial-strength air purifiers.

The units are available in many different sizes and feature a deep-bed activated carbon filter for the removal of chemicals, gases and odors as well as an electrostatic particle filter. The powerful HEPA + carbon combination gives these air purification systems an extensive adsorbent area, allowing them to capture odor-causing pollutants more quickly than other units.

They can accommodate between 18 and 360 pounds of activated carbon and can be customized even more with regards to the filter media and carbon blends.


Simple and impressive air purification solution

The RSU units are portable, free-standing, plug-and-go air purifiers with a round design for maximum efficiency.  Users can easily change the air flow according to preference. The main body of the air purifier is covered by a wrap-around pre-filter to capture larger particles and allow for large-volume air intake. The RSU will clean the air and then recirculate it in the room.

The overall design and capabilities of the RSU Series makes these units the best choice for clients who need fast and effective chemical and odor relief.


Industries that benefit from RSU units include:

• Homeowners and businesses who want chemical and odor control
• Laser engraving and cutting
• Printing and graphics
• Museums and art galleries
• Art restoration
• Government / public institutions
• Renovation and construction
• Funeral homes and embalming
• Food processing industry
• Chemicals and manufacturing
• Smoke and smog relief
• Any commercial or industrial setting where odors, chemicals or gases are an issue

Electrocorp is a global leader in the research and development of complete and reliable air quality management solutions for industrial and commercial odor removal that feature the most filtration media on the market for the most reasonable prices. For more information, call  one of our air quality experts at 1.888.667.0297.

Welding hazards: Protect yourself from welding fumes and soldering fumes

Most welders know they should protect themselves from the toxic fumes and gases produced in the welding process. According to the Center to Protect Workers’ Rights, the hazards of welding depend on the

•    welding method,
•    welding rod,
•    filler metals and base metals,
•    paints and other coatings on the material and
•    ventilation.

Safe Solder series

Harmful weld fumes can be released by metals, coatings, residues and solvents. Shielding gases like argon can displace the oxygen and be downright deadly, if they are allowed to accumulate around the indoor work station.

When it comes to choosing the right air purifier or fume extractor for welders, an industrial-strength activated carbon and HEPA filtration system has been proven to counteract harmful toxins and particles.

Electrocorp’s specially designed Fume Extractor Series features portable, powerful units that capture many toxic fumes at the source, directly at the work station. They adsorb gases and chemicals in a deep bed of activated carbon, using 40 to 80 pounds of this efficient filtration media.

Fume Extractor LD450

The units are designed for TIG, MIG and arc welding operations and they feature a spark arrestor, flexible arm and optional custom carbon blends. Electrocorp also offers air purifiers specifically designed for soldering applications, including a tabletop unit with an intake hood and a smoke particle filter as well as an activated charcoal filter.

Air purifiers by Electrocorp can easily be modified and converted to purify the air in any industrial and commercial environment where chemical and odor control is a main concern.

Contact us today to speak to one of our air quality experts.

Don’t ignore indoor air concerns at ice rinks

It’s the last thing owners, facility managers and users of ice rinks want to think about – poor IAQ at indoor ice skating rinks, perpetuated by the emissions from Zambonis and other machines as well as inadequate ventilation or safeguards.

But when you hear stories of entire hockey teams falling ill at a Rhode Island arena or more than 130 people suffering some form of carbon monoxide poisoning at an ice rink in Colorado, it soon becomes obvious that this is an issue that needs to be taken seriously.

Watch out for the air quality in ice arenas.
Photo by Sandtrooper (own work)

Lack of regulations in arenas

Most North American states and provinces do not regulate indoor air quality at ice rinks and sports centers.
Most air quality issues are caused by ice-resurfacing machines, or Zambonis, and ice edgers running on gasoline, natural gas or propane. Electric machines do not contribute to IAQ problems.

The machines can cause high levels of carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), which are life-threatening gases in high concentrations. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and poisonous gas and can cause mild to severe symptoms, depending on the concentration level.


Poisonous gases a threat to rink users

There may be an indoor air concern in the arena near you if you notice the following symptoms after spending time in one:

• Headaches
• Breathing problems
• Nausea, fatigue, vertigo, disorientation
• Increased heart beat
• Vision loss
• Stomach pains

Exposure to NO2, a highly reactive oxidant and corrosive gas, causes a slight irritation to the lungs and throat, but the effects worsen after 48 hours and can include fluid and bleeding in the lungs. Weaker lungs increase the chances of getting pneumonia and developing long-term breathing problems.

The pollutant level is highest just after the resurfacing machine has gone through. Athletes are at a greater risk because their activity level makes them breathe in large amounts of harmful gases.

People should be extra careful at tournaments or competitions when the ice is resurfaced more often than usual.

Facility managers need to control IAQ at ice rinks

There are many ways ice skating facilities can ensure safe levels of indoor air pollutants.

1. Be knowledgeable about potential safety hazards and IAQ problems
2. Educate workers on their role in protecting users (espec. Children) and IAQ; let occupants know that they should pay attention to warning signs, inform arena management and consult a medical professional
3. Set up carbon monoxide detectors throughout the facility
4. Schedule regular tune-ups and emission-checks for the ice-resurfacing machines 
5. Install a state-of-the-art exhaust system that pumps fresh air into the arena and locker rooms
6. Use an industrial-strength air purifier in spaces where IAQ is of particular importance, e.g. in public areas and locker rooms
7. Check the ventilation systems regularly. Problems are often easily fixed, but they have to be detected first
8. Establish procedures and guidelines on what to do with complaints and how to handle emergency situations
9. The International Ice Hockey Federation recommends two ventilation units in arenas, one over the skating rink and one in public areas

Questions or concerns? Talk to one of our air quality experts toll free at 1-866-667-0297.

Sources: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/icearenas.html
http://www.northjersey.com/news/environment/117219963_Zambonis_clear_the_ice__then_rinks_clear_the_air.html?page=all

Less air pollution would prolong lives, save healthcare costs and increase productivity: EU study

Curbing pollution could save lives
 and cut health-care costs.

A study funded by the European Union has found that 19,000 lives could be saved each year if rampant air pollution could be controlled.

Apart from saving lives, the study results also indicates that residents could add two years to their life expectancy and be more productive at work because they would not have to be absent as often.
 In addition, healthcare costs could go down by as much as $43.4 billion.


Cars blamed for high pollution rates

The study, titled Aphekom, looked at 25 cities in 12 EU countries over a period of three years and encompassed nearly 39 million people.

Most of the pollution came from vehicle exhausts on busy streets.

Stockholm fared best when it came to fine particle pollution, while Bucharest, Budapest and Barcelona were bogged down with high pollution rates.

The UN's World Health Organization (WHO) set the acceptable standards for fine particulate pollution at 10 micrograms per cubic meter. Rome was at 21.4 micrograms per cubic meter, London was at 13.1.


Health concerns associated with air pollution

In North America, pollution has been an ongoing issue. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to particulate matter can have effects on breathing and respiratory systems, damage to lung tissue, cancer, and premature death.

The elderly, children, and people with chronic lung disease, influenza, or asthma, tend to be especially sensitive to the effects of particulate matter. Acidic particulate matter can also damage manmade materials and is a major cause of reduced visibility in many parts of the U.S.

Fine particles can remain suspended in the air and travel long distances. For example, a puff of exhaust from a diesel truck in Los Angeles can end up over the Grand Canyon, where one-third of the haze comes from Southern California.

Emissions from a Los Angeles oil refinery can form particles that in a few days will affect visibility in the Rocky Mountain National Park. Twenty percent of the problem on dirtiest days in that Park is attributed to Los Angeles-generated smog.


Reduce air pollution – outdoors and indoors

If outdoor air pollution sounds dangerous, imagine what kind of an effect poor indoor air quality can have on human health -- especially since we spend most of our time inside. The silver lining: We have more control over our indoor environments.

Compact air purifiers help remove
airborne contaminants at home and at the office.

For cleaner air at home and industrial odor and chemical control solutions at the workplace, choose an air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA to provide maximum chemical, odor and particle control. Carbon adsorbs many of the prevalent airborne gases and chemicals that pollute indoor air. Find out more on the Electrocorp website or contact us today for a customized recommendation.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20110302/sc_afp/euenvironmenthealthpollution_20110302115256/print

Protect yourself from explosive chemicals

Minimize risks when working with chemicals.

Remember the chemical disaster in Bophal, India, in the 1980s or the 2008 Bayer CropScience explosion in the U.S.?
For industries and laboratories that handle toxic chemicals, there is a constant threat of dangerous developments and near-accidents.
The National Academies Press says that “prudent execution of experiments requires not only sound judgment and an accurate assessment of the risks involved in laboratory work, but also the selection of appropriate work practices to reduce risk and protect the health and safety of the laboratory workers as well as the public and the environment.”

Be extra careful when dealing with chemicals
They outline four fundamental principles that all laboratory workers dealing with chemicals should keep in mind:

• Plan ahead. Determine the potential hazards associated with an experiment before beginning it.
• Minimize exposure to chemicals. Do not allow laboratory chemicals to come in contact with skin. Use laboratory hoods and other ventilation devices to prevent exposure to airborne substances whenever possible.
• Do not underestimate risks. Assume that any mixture of chemicals will be more toxic than its most toxic component. Treat all new compounds and substances of unknown toxicity as toxic substances.
• Be prepared for accidents. Before beginning an experiment, know what specific action to take in the event of the accidental release of any hazardous substance. Know the location of all safety equipment and the nearest fire alarm and telephone, and know what telephone numbers to call and whom to notify in the event of an emergency. Be prepared to provide basic emergency treatment. Keep your co-workers informed of your activities so that they can respond appropriately.

I-6500 series

Electrocorp has developed a range of air purifiers for laboratory workers, including the RAP series, the RSU series, the I-6500 series and Fume Hoods. Where high concentrations of flammable vapors (according to the MSDS) pose a threat of ignition, the I-6500 Explosion Proof promises to keep things safe.  It removes the toxic chemicals from the air and comes with explosion proof motor and switch, an after-filter housing, special carbon blends and particle filtration. The unit must be hard-wired by a certified electrician.

Fears of vapor intrusion prompt EPA studies

The news of suspected soil vapor intrusion in various homes in Haverford, Pennsylvania and Moraine, Ohio, has caused the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assign vapor intrusion studies in those areas.

In Haverford, the tests will record the presence of trichloroethylene in the groundwater at the Havertown Superfund site, explains an article in the Delaware Country Daily Times.

Apart from sampling TCE levels in homes, the tests also involve installing new groundwater wells.


Vapors seep through cracks in foundation

TCE is a nonflammable, colorless liquid that is often used as a solvent to clean or degrease metal parts. Chemical spills and improper disposal can cause it to enter groundwater.

TCE vapors can volatilize or off-gas through soil and pollute indoor air by seeping through cracks in basements and foundations. Long-term exposure has been linked to risk of nerve, kidney or liver damage and cancer in these organs.


Vapor intrusion a relatively new concern

According to EPA spokesperson Roy Seneca, who was quoted in the article, EPA “now looks more closely than ever at vapor intrusion as a potential pathway. Vapor intrusion was never considered so much in the past to be a problem.

“If there was TCE in groundwater, but a public water system was in place, it wasn’t looked upon as a potential health concern. But vapor intrusion is something they look upon now as a ... concern.”

It can take up to six weeks to get results back from the laboratory.


Vapors at former auto plant sites a concern in Ohio

In Moraine, Ohio, 60 residences will be checked for vapor intrusion close to where the former GM plant operated.

GM and Motors Liquidation Co., which now owns the former plant site, have been tracking a plume of contaminated water, according to an article in the Dayton Daily News.

EPA has asked residents to sign an open access agreement. The organization has already tested groundwater and ground vapors, a spokesperson said, and they now want to check if vapors have entered homes southwest of the former manufacturing site.

Previously, groundwater around former plant sites has been found contaminated with petroleum-based chemicals or VOCs.


Industrial air cleaners a powerful ally against soil vapor intrusion

Vapor intrusion is an emerging problem in North America. The phrase "soil vapor intrusion" refers to the process by which chemicals move from an underground source into the indoor air of the buildings above.

RAP series

The chemicals seep into the soil and enter a building though cracks in basement floors and walls or openings around pipes or wires.

As a result of a difference in pressure, a building’s HVAC system can actually draw these chemical vapors into a building.

Electrocorp works with environmental consultants to provide industrial air cleaning solutions for facilities and residential dwellings affected by vapor intrusion.

Contact an Electrocorp air quality representative today for more information on vapor intrusion and our advanced activated carbon filtration systems designed to safely remove chemicals, gases, fumes and odors.

Sources: 

• http://www.daytondailynews.com/business/epa-wants-to-test-home-air-in-moraine-1077767.html
• http://delcotimes.com/articles/2011/02/11/news/doc4d54b7c9319b8328062319.txt

Traveling? Take note of the indoor air quality in your hotel

Poor indoor air quality is a common complaint in public lodging establishments such as hotels, apartments and motels. 

Websites like tripadvisor feature many warnings by concerned hotel guests about issues such as poor housekeeping and mold. A search for “mold” brought up hotels in the U.S., Italy, Taiwan, Mexico and Thailand.

Hotels often suffer from poor indoor air quality because they have a greater density of people per square foot than office or apartment buildings and cannot control environmental conditions in rooms.

Hotel guests can be sensitive to mold and mildew

Mold spores are a natural part of the environment and they will settle down and thrive when they find a spot with enough moisture or humidity. Many people will notice a bad smell in rooms that harbour mold.

According to mold remediation professionals, typical causes for mold in hotels or motels are deficient air conditioning systems and air and water leaks in the building walls. Most hotel rooms have little fresh air exchange and let mold and bacteria thrive in an environment of vinyl wall paper and shower steam.

Reported health problems to mold exposure include breathing difficulties, headaches, nausea, gastrointestinal ailments, skin rashes, severe allergic reactions and neurological damage.  

Mold growth a costly concern in public lodgings

Mold problems not only turn off visitors, they can also be expensive. Insurance companies are catching on to an increase in mold claims and are raising their prices accordingly.

When a hotel in Hawaii had to close 453 rooms in 2004 to take care of a mold problem, the estimated cost for finding the source of the mold and removing it was $10 million.

Thankfully, more and more hotel administrators and public health authorities are addressing mold abatement concerns. For example, the Florida Department of Health  has set up a division where people can call or write in to lodge complaints about indoor air quality in hotels and motels.

Industrial air cleaners offer additional protection against the effects of mold

If a mold problem already exists, an industrial-strength air purifier is an important tool in the mold abatement process. Improper clean-up practices may result in health and liability issues, especially if hazardous materials are released in the air and contaminate neighboring areas.

For a list of powerful air scrubbers, click here. Electrocorp has designed industrial air cleaners for the hospitality industry.

In terms of mold prevention and improvement of overall experience, hotel owners and managers are starting to make improved indoor air quality, air exchange systems and other IAQ services a priority.

Some hotels have realized that better, cleaner air is an important part of their business and even offer a free-standing indoor air purifier in certain rooms, on top of well-maintained ventilation systems. The best air cleaners feature a combination of activated carbon, HEPA and a UV light to remove odors, chemicals, gases, particles, dust, mold spores, bacteria and viruses from the air.

Hotels are in the business of keeping customers happy. The more people realize the dangerous effects of mold and demand rooms with top indoor air quality, the more hotels will listen and act accordingly.

Contact Electrocorp for more information and the best air cleaners for your hotel, motel, inn or hospitality business.