Database Needs for a Task-Based Exposure Assessment Model for Construction

Abstract

Construction workers suffer elevated disease and death rates. However, with the exception of lead and asbestos, little exposure data among this population have been documented in the literature. The dynamic nature of construction challenges the occupational hygienist attempting to characterize exposures among respective trades. The site, the sector (commercial, residential, industrial, etc.), the work force (both individual workers and craft combinations), and the materials are ever-changing variables in the construction industry. Construction workers, who are trained in specialized skills, routinely work on different sites with different employers. For the construction worker, skills (or specialized tasks) that are carried from job to job represent the most constant aspect of their work. The feasibility of using a task-based approach to exposure assessment in construction is currently being evaluated by the Center to Protect Workers' Rights. This article presents the preliminary data needs identified by this effort. In its first iteration, this approach is to be piloted for evaluation of chemical exposures. Components of information to be collected are: (1) record keeping, (2) task description, (3) exposure data, (4) sampling/analytical data, (5) bystander data, (6) controls/environmental conditions, and (7) exposure history. Experienced construction workers with special training will assist in collection of data to be included in the task description, control information, and bystander exposure modules. Susi, P.; Schneider, S.: Database Needs for a Task-Based Exposure Assessment Model for Construction. Appl. Occup. Environ. Hyg. 10(4):394–399; 1995.