Researchers Recommend Considering Occupational Exposures in Early Lung Cancer Detection Programs

Low-dose CT scans can save lives by identifying lung cancers at an early stage, when treatment is most likely to be effective. A newly published CPWR study, “Early detection of lung cancer in a population at high risk due to occupation and smoking,” validates the U.S. National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommendation that early lung cancer detection programs include both smoking and occupational exposures to define populations eligible for CT screening. The Building Trades National Medical Screening Program’s ELCD program screened 1,260 former construction workers, and researchers analyzed the results. This population included both heavy and light smokers who had been … Read more

Filed under: eNews, SafetyTagged with: , , , ,

Update on Nanomaterials in Construction: Epidemiology, Exposures and Awareness Webinar

When: 2 p.m. ET on Thursday, Dec. 13 (30 minutes) Who: Bruce Lippy, director or safety research, CPWR ; Gavin West, research analyst, CPWR; Laura Boatman, project coordinator, State Building and Construction Trades Council of California Engineered nanomaterials are an emerging hazard in multiple industries, including construction. This webinar will cover the latest efforts to address nanomaterial risks in a world being rapidly transformed by technology. After relying heavily on animal studies, recent epidemiologic research is providing new insight into potential health effects among workers. The speakers will also present CPWR’s latest research on nanomaterial exposure assessment and control, and … Read more

Filed under: SafetyTagged with: , , ,

Webinar: Predicting Exposure to Hazards Using CPWR Exposure Control Database

Predicting worker exposure to jobsite hazards, such as silica, has historically been a challenge in construction. The construction industry lacks a system to help health and safety practitioners predict exposure to hazards and implement effective controls accordingly. To bridge this gap, CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training has developed an interactive, online Exposure Control Database that calculates exposure to four major hazards—silica, welding fumes, noise and lead—using prepopulated objective data. Join CPWR Exposure Control Technologies Research Director Babak Memarian and Industrial Hygienist Sara Brooks to learn more about CPWR’s Exposure Control Database and how to use it. … Read more

Filed under: SafetyTagged with: , , , ,

Real-Time Risk: Infection Control, Cross Contamination & Exposure

By Marlene Linders Each year, 5,000-7,500 patients die from cross–contamination due to healthcare-related construction, and the numbers are escalating considerably. Waterborne pathogens such as legionella are on the rise. The CDC estimates that 35 percent of legionella outbreaks are caused by changes in water quality from reasons external to the building itself, like nearby construction. How would you respond to these situations? Situation #1: A 42-year-old male is having open heart surgery in a hospital in the south. Construction is ongoing during the surgery; roof repairs and renovation is a constant. There is a pipe break with considerable flooding. The … Read more

Filed under: eNews, SafetyTagged with: , , ,

Safeguard Your Assets: 6 Steps to Secure Your Jobsite

Construction brings many opportunities to many different people. Communities experiencing an intense building spree can usually look forward to more foot traffic or an influx of new businesses. Unfortunately, this progress can also attract thieves and vandals, as the busy construction site of the day turns into one of the quietest spots at night when work stops. Contractors need to protect their valuable assets. These six best practices to help secure a jobsite come from CONEXPO-CON/AGG 365. Learn more at http://www.conexpoconagg.com/subscribe/). 1— Connect with law enforcement before an incident occurs Contact the local police department well before actual construction begins. … Read more

Filed under: eNews, SafetyTagged with: , ,