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NIOSH Programs > Services > NIOSH Research Projects ServicesActivities: NIOSH Research ProjectsThe following projects represent much of the extensive research program at NIOSH on health and safety issues in the Services sector. Work-related Asthma in Office Buildings and SchoolsThree investigations in damp and comparison buildings documented the phenomenology of building-related asthma, its confirmation with objective health measures, and its substantial impact on sick absenteeism. Work-related respiratory symptoms correlated with semi-quantitative indices of dampness and mold in two investigations, providing the validation required to disseminate this low-cost approach to hazard assessment and priority setting. Further, novel biomass indicators including Beta-glucans, fungal extracellular polysaccharides, ergosterol, and endotoxin in floor dust, in addition to total culturable fungi, were significant predictors of work-related respiratory symptoms. Project contact: Jean Cox-Ganser, Ph.D. Maine Schools StudyNIOSH has developed collaborations with the Maine Department of Education, the Maine Bureau of Health and the Maine American Lung Association to examine the association between school indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and respiratory health with a focus on asthma. Phase one has used existing Maine Department of Education databases on capital assessment and maintenance to score schools in terms of environmental quality measures, including water intrusion and water damage. Phase two will emphasize IEQ evaluation at selected schools as well as a research to practice approach of training school staff in the use of short health questionnaires and semi-quantitative environment assessment tools with the aim to focus the use of resources to improve IEQ. Project contact: Jean Cox-Ganser, Ph.D. Work-related Asthma Surveillance - Educational ServicesNIOSH collected work-related asthma surveillance data from California , Massachusetts , Michigan , and New Jersey for the period of 1993-1999. Analysis of these data indicated that the education sector had the third highest frequency of work-related asthma after transportation and health services. This project will assess the magnitude and characteristics of work-related asthma cases among educational workers, identify high risk occupations and worker populations, and identify workplaces where intervention is needed. Additionally, the results of this project will increase awareness in schools of potential problems and possible intervention, and fill gaps in national surveillance data systems. Project contact: Margaret Filios Identification of Occupational AllergensSome occupational exposures can cause inflammatory or immune reactions that contribute to the prevalence of occupational lung diseases such as asthma and allergic alveolitis. This project will develop improved techniques for the detection of immune reactions before adverse clinical outcomes occur, and improved techniques for the detection and identification of inciting occupational agents. The project will involve the analyses of clinical samples, environmental bulk samples, and environmental aerosol samples. Successful completion of these investigations should lead to the development of effective prevention strategies for occupational allergies and asthma. Project contact: Don Beezhold Species-specific Reagents for Measuring Airborne FungiThe purpose of this project is to produce diagnostic reagents for airborne fungi. Reagents will be developed for accurate monitoring of fungal aerosols in order to better evaluate the exposure-disease relationships of fungal contamination. The principles and methods developed in this project will lead to improved work environments. The monitoring methods may also be applied to other microorganisms including bio-warfare and bio-terrorism agents. Project contact: Detlef Schmechel Indoor Environment Surface ChemistryThis investigation of chemical reactions on indoor surfaces will lead to better characterization of indoor exposure, identify chemical and surface structure(s) that influence indoor air quality, and highlight potential analytical and sampling needs. The research addresses knowledge gaps in indoor environment research, and indoor pollutant characterization and measurement. Results will include more accurate exposure assessment, better sampling and analytical tools, and improved engineering controls to reduce chemical contaminants. Project contact: John Wells Restaurant Safety for Young WorkersThis training effectiveness project will assess whether Web graphics and navigation affect knowledge and attitudes of young workers as they complete the OSHA E-Tool on Restaurant Safety. Participants perform a series of real-world training tasks on the computer while talking aloud. In addition to recording participant audio and videos, observers collect performance data, such as task completion times and click-through mapping. Users will also complete a knowledge and attitude pre-test and post-test. Analyses will estimate the correlation between verbal comments and test scores. Results should increase the reliability and efficacy of electronic training tools. Project contact: Rohit Verma Assessing the TB Education Needs for Hispanic Immigrant WorkersApproximately 100 Hispanic immigrant workers and 25 their employers in restaurant, hospitality and janitorial businesses will be asked to respond to questions about tuberculosis (TB). Data from the assessment will be used to develop TB information materials tailored to meet the needs and preferences of the workers and their employers. The effectiveness of these materials will be then assessed by additional interviews with approximately 50 Hispanic immigrant workers and 25 of their employers to measure abilities to recognize the TB symptoms. Effective educational materials will be broadly disseminated to increase early detection and treatment of TB among Hispanic immigrant workers, and decrease the spread of TB in the workplace. Project contact: Don Eggerth and Mike Flynn Long Term Study of Ergonomic Mouse EffectivenessThis project is the first comprehensive, long-term assessment of the efficacy of ergonomic mouse input devices in preventing or alleviating musculoskeletal disorders among computer users. Several ergonomic mouse designs will be assessed over a one year period among insurance company employees. Measures include medical assessment of symptomatology, workstation assessments, psychosocial factors, and a range of physical and physiological indicators (e.g., postural analyses, EMG, etc.). The projected outcome is recommendations regarding effective mouse designs. Project contact: Naomi Swanson Work Organization, Cardiovascular Disease and DepressionThe purpose of this study is to identify causal relationships between job stressors, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and depression among 10,000 male and 10,000 female workers. Depression and CVD (clinical hypertension, angina, myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death) will be ascertained from medical records. Blood samples will be collected at enrollment and end of follow-up and analyzed for cholesterol and high-density lipoproteins. Job stressors as well as family-related demands and discrimination will be assessed annually using both subjective and objective methods. Study questionnaires have been developed and data collection efforts are ongoing while additional sites and employers are being identified. Study results should lead to effective interventions to reduce the occurrence of CVD and depression (and their costs). Project contact: Carlos Aristeguieta Improved Environmental Exposure Sampling Methods for Bioterrorism ResponseThe objective of this study is to increase capabilities and capacities for environmental sampling in bioterrorism emergency response investigations. Surface sampling (i.e., wipe, swab, and vacuum) and air sampling for bioterrorism agents will be evaluated. Comparisons will be completed using surrogate agents in chamber-based studies at an established bioterrorism research facility. Analytical results from three laboratories (Dugway Proving Grounds, Environmental Protection Agency [EPA], and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Center for Infectious Diseases [CDC/NCID]) can be evaluated for sensitivity, specificity, and recovery efficiencies for each phase of the process. Project contact: Cherie Estell Physiological Models and CountermeasuresThe purpose of this project is to identify changes in the firefighter physiological (thermoregulatory, respiratory, cardiovascular, fluid/electrolyte, musculoskeletal) response during use of a protective ensemble (including helmet, boots, gloves, SCBA). Then, the "physiological model" will be employed to determine a means to actuate technological countermeasures that can maintain physiological stability regardless of the external or internal stresses imposed during the use of the ensemble. The ultimate goal is to use one or more physiological signals to trigger a cooling technology and then deactivate the technology when the selected set of physiological parameters has returned to baseline. This countermeasure will stabilize the subject's physiology while only being in use intermittently thus conserving technology/battery life. Project contact: Jon Williams Improved Criteria for Emergency Medical Protective Clothing ( EMS )A series of investigations will lead to recommendations for specific, appropriate criteria for the protection of first responders during emergency medical operations in conjunction with the NFPA Technical Committee on Emergency Medical Operations Protective Clothing and Equipment. These investigations will identify the hazards faced by first responders, determine the features and properties of specific PPE that protect against these hazards and test products to assist in setting performance requirements. Project contact: Angie Shepherd Next Generation Structural Fire Fighting PPE EnsembleProject HEROES® is funded by Technical Support Working Group of the Interagency Board for Equipment Standardization and Interoperability (IAB) and managed by the International Association of Fire Fighters. The goal of Project HEROES® is the development of new materials and ensemble designs for a firefighting ensemble that will meet the requirements of NFPA 1971 and 1994. The NIOSH/NPPTL primary role on the project is to support the development of test methods to ensure all ensembles and materials are tested appropriately. NPPTL will conduct all physiological testing of the prototype firefighter PPE ensembles. NPPTL will also supply language and support to standards organizations to remove design restrictions and allow advanced technologies to be investigated. Project contact: Ronald Shaffer Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation Program CardiovascularThe purpose of this project is to conduct individual investigations of fire fighters who died on-duty due to cardiovascular disease. The investigation characterizes the environmental, organizational, and personal circumstances of the death. Data from the investigation are used to generate 1) individual fatality reports, and 2) a database to develop hypotheses for prevention and intervention activities. The fatality reports are printed and disseminated to the fire service as well as being posted on the NIOSH Fire Fighter Web site. Findings have also been disseminated in the peer-reviewed scientific literature and at technical meetings and conferences. Project contact: Tom Hales Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program Traumatic InjuriesBeginning in Fiscal Year 1998, Congress funded investigations of line-of-duty fire fighter traumatic deaths among the nation's 1.1 million fire fighters. The goals andobjectives of this project are to prevent fatal work injuries to fire fighters by identifying high - risk work situations and formulating prevention strategies for those who can intervene in the workplace. Narrative reports with recommendations for preventing future similar deaths and summary documents for specific hazards and topics (e.g. structural collapse, diver training) are broadly distributed by posting them on the NIOSH Web site, reprinting in trade journals, and mailings to the 35,000 fire departments around the nation. Project contact: Richard Braddee Spirometry Pulmonary Function Monitoring in FirefightersThis project includes development, implementation, and evaluation of a model spirometry screening program for respiratory conditions among the firefighters at the Phoenix Fire Department. Lung function test data collection procedures and the quality and precision of the existing spirometry tests over a 19-year period were evaluated. NIOSH then conducted a 2-day spirometry training course and has since provided continuous support for implementation of the model program. The project will develop computer software to identify clinically important changes to individual lung function tests as well as provide data to evaluate spirometry test precision over time. Project contact: Mike Attfield Occupational Injuries and Illnesses Among Federal WorkersThis project examines the potential of Federal workers' compensation data to describe injuries and illnesses among Federal workers and guide subsequent prevention efforts. Department of Labor agencies with key roles in the Safety, Health and Return-to-Employment (SHARE) Initiative, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP), will be provided with technical guidance on improving future collection of these data and using them for prevention efforts. Should initial assessments and analyses prove promising, NIOSH will collaborate with OSHA on additional analyses and data dissemination. This work is expected to contribute to injury and illness reductions among Federal employees. Project contact: Audrey Schaffer Injury and Disability among Public Safety Employees in California : An Evaluation of Workers' Compensation, Disability Retirement and Safety ProceduresThis project is being completed collaboratively with RAND and the California Commission on Health and Safety and Workers' Compensation to characterize the incidence and types of injuries suffered by public safety employees. This study 1) explores whether the nature of public safety work can explain the higher incidence of injuries, 2) investigates specific measures that might reduce the incidence of these injuries among public safety workers, 3) examines trends in disability retirements for public safety officers as compared to other public employees, 4) describes differences in retirement patterns across different public safety departments, and 5) addresses whether workers' compensation and disability benefits provided to public safety employees adequately compensate for lost earnings in the event of a disabling injury. Project contact: Elyce Biddle Analysis of Cardiovascular Effects of Stress in PoliceThe objectives of this research are to optimize the analyses of cortisol in saliva as a physiologic stress indicator and to determine whether this indicator is associated with adverse metabolic and cardiovascular consequences(e.g. diabetes and myocardial infarction). A cohort of police officers who experience high-stress levels as a characteristic of their occupation are participating in the study. Results from this study may be generalized to other workplaces and lead to improved intervention efforts. Project contact: Michael Andrew Fatigue in Buffalo Police Officers StudyNIOSH has entered into an Interagency Agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice to extend the current Buffalo Cardio-metabolic Occupational Police Stress (BCOPS) study by measuring police officer fatigue and the impact of fatigue on police officer health, performance, and safety. Specifically, this study will collect sleep quality data and police department information and records to: (1) evaluate the effects of shift work and extended work hours on police officer stress and fatigue; and (2) examine the effects of stress and fatigue on subclinical cardiovascular disease and metabolic disease risk, psychological abnormalities, and police operational consequences. The results may increase the understanding of how these occupational risk factors may increase stress and associated adverse health consequences. Project contact: Cecil Burchfiel Risk Factors for Vehicle Crashes Among Public EmployeesThe objective of this study is to better understand the nature and extent of vehicle-related injuries among public employees through assessment and analysis of data on crashes and health outcomes. State departments of transportation (DOT) employees and active duty U.S. military personnel are the study populations. Products of the research include recommendations to state DOTs for a minimum crash data set and improvements in data collection and management. The project's effectiveness will be measured by state DOTs' implementation or strengthening of procedures to collect and use crash data, and by the U.S. military's implementation of vehicle safety policies based on results of collaborative research between NIOSH and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. Project contact: Stephanie Pratt Ambulance Crash Survivability Improvement ProjectThe objective of this project is to reduce or eliminate vehicle crash-related injuries and fatalities to emergency service workers in ambulance patient compartments. Issues under investigation include: acceptance of mobile occupant restraints; the layout of the patient compartment; and, structural integrity of the patient compartment and equipment mounting hardware. A human factors evaluation is used to investigate impediments to occupant restraint use. The ambulance patient compartment will be reconfigured to strengthen equipment mounts and improve worker access to equipment. The project is expected to lead to improvements in ambulance crash-worthiness and crash survivability for EMS workers, including fire fighters who frequently provide emergency care in ambulances. Project contact: Paul Moore Evaluation of an OSH Program for CosmetologyThis pilot project will collect baseline information from small businesses in hair and nail services about hazards and any attempts to control them. Workers in these salons may be exposed to chemicals, biologic hazards and conditions associated with musculoskeletal disorders. Targeted communication materials will then be developed and provided to a sample of small business owners to inform them about health and safety strategies for their workplaces. The project will use telephone questionnaires and site visits to assess intervention effectiveness based on the model of Prochaska and DiClemente. Project contact: Robert Malkin |
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NIOSH Program:Services |
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