IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Evaluation of environmental monitoring parameters for workers exposed to beryllium

Abstract

Since 1999, there has been an increase in claims for occupational diseases related to beryllium (Be) exposure. The interventions currently being carried out by the health network in target industries, namely foundries and aeronautical companies, will provide a better characterization of this exposure in these environments and an estimate of the number of workers potentially at risk. It is in this context that the researchers will explore the possibility of suggesting a Be exposure parameter better related to sensitization to this metal than the currently used measurement. Operations in the priority sectors should identify the exposure levels for chemical characterization and beryllium distribution, which in another phase will be used to determine a correlation with health effects. The results of this study, by contributing to the improvement of knowledge on the consequences of Be exposure, will allow more appropriate means of control to be proposed in relation to the type of exposure, workstation and industry.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0099-3030
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2010
Team:
  • Chantal Dion (IRSST)
  • Yves Cloutier (IRSST)
  • André Dufresne (Université McGill)
  • Stéphanie Viau (IRSST)