Checklist Model to Improve Work Practices in Small-Scale Demolition Operations with Silica Dust Exposures

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Custodio Muianga¹  Carol Rice¹  Thomas Lentz²  James Lockey¹  Richard Niemeier² 

[1] Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine University of Cincinnati, 3223 Eden Ave., Kettering Laboratory, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA;Education and Information Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), CDC, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA;

关键词: work practices;    construction sector;    dust exposure controls;    Mozambique;   

DOI  :  10.3390/ijerph9020343

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

A systematic approach was developed to review, revise and adapt existing exposure control guidance used in developed countries for use in developing countries. One-page employee and multiple-page supervisor guidance sheets were adapted from existing documents using a logic framework and workers were trained to use the information to improve work practices. Interactive, hands-on training was delivered to 26 workers at five small-scale demolition projects in Maputo City, Mozambique, and evaluated. A pre-and-post walkthrough survey used by trained observers documented work practice changes. Worker feedback indicated that the training was effective and useful. Workers acquired knowledge (84% increase, p < 0.01) and applied the work practice guidance. The difference of proportions between use of work practice components before and after the intervention was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Changes in work practices following training included preplanning, use of wet methods and natural ventilation and end-of-task review. Respirable dust measurements indicated a reduction in exposure following training. Consistency in observer ratings and observations support the reliability and validity of the instruments. This approach demonstrated the short-term benefit of training in changing work practices; follow-up is required to determine the long-term impact on changes in work practices, and to evaluate the need for refresher training.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2012 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.