Abstract
Objectives: The objective of this research was to evaluate variability in bioaerosol exposures among similar exposure groups (SEGs) based on dairy workers’ tasks. This analysis is an important step in a broader effort to develop effective interventions to reduce exposures and health effects. Methods: Bioaerosol samples were collected in workers’ breathing zones (n=116) over entire work shifts (10 – 12 hours) using Button samplers (inhalable) with PVC filters to measure organic dust, endotoxin (recombinant Factor C assay), and 3-hydroxy fatty acids (3-OHFA), ergosterol and muramic acid (GC/MSMS). Ammonia was measured using direct-reading ToxiRae samplers. To our knowledge this is the first study to include combined analysis of 3- OHFA, muramic acid and ergosterol in dairy operations. Results: SEGs were defined based on work tasks including: milking (30% of population), breeding (3%), birthing/rearing (9%), medical care (12%), feeding (4%), moving stock (4%), rebedding stalls (9%), milking parlor maintenance (3%), facility maintenance/repairs (2%), other tasks [administration
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Health and Safety in Agriculture: Nordic and World-Wide Perspectives: Nordic Meeting on Agricultural Occupational Health and Safety, Ystad Saltsjöbaden, Ystad, Sweden, August 27 – 29, 2012 |
Publisher | Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences |
Pages | 25-26 |
Number of pages | 2 |
ISBN (Print) | 9789187117152 |
Publication status | Published - 2012 |
Event | Nordic Meeting on Agricultural Occupational Health and Safety - Duration: 1 Jan 2014 → … |
Conference
Conference | Nordic Meeting on Agricultural Occupational Health and Safety |
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Period | 1/01/14 → … |
Keywords
- aerosols
- dust
- dairy workers