http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=16862877&dopt=Citation
1: AAOHN J. 2006 Jul;54(7):301-6. Related Articles, Links
Assessment of wastewater treatment plant workers exposed to biosolids: Pilot test of a newly developed
health survey.
Robinson C, Robinson K, Tatgenhorst C, Campbell D, Webb C.
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
The purpose of this study was to develop and pilot test a health survey for wastewater treatment workers exposed to
biosolids, using an upstream framework for environmental health. The questionnaire included items about health
status, symptoms, frequency of contact with biosolids, use of personal protective equipment, and demographic data. A
majority of workers regularly exposed to biosolids reported at least one health-related symptom, although some
attributed their symptoms to contact with materials other than biosolids. All 11 participants took unnecessary health
risks such as periodically neglecting to wear masks, respirators, gloves, or goggles to protect themselves from potential
exposure to biosolids. However, those who reported symptoms were the least compliant with personal protective
equipment use. Survey results highlighted that occupational health nurses must effectively communicate to their clients
the need for proper use of personal protective equipment when working with potentially hazardous material.
Publication Types:
Validation Studies