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Updated: Aug 4, 2026
10:11
Whole-Body Nanoparticle Aerosol Inhalation Exposures
Published on: May 7, 2013
Current chemical exposures among Ontario construction workers
Dave K Verma1, Lawrence A Kurtz, Dru Sahai
1Program in Occupational Health and Environmental Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene
|November 13, 2003
Summary
Ontario construction workers face hazardous chemical exposures, including dust, solvents, and asbestos. Silica exposure levels were found to be lower than in other studies, highlighting assessment challenges.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Epidemiology
- Industrial Hygiene
Background:
- Construction workers are at risk of occupational exposures.
- Cancer and mortality patterns are studied in relation to these exposures.
- Previous research indicates significant chemical agent exposure in this sector.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current occupational exposures to chemical agents among Ontario construction workers.
- To correlate exposure data with cancer and mortality patterns.
- To identify specific chemical agents and exposure levels in the construction industry.
Main Methods:
- Task-based exposure assessment across nine construction trade unions.
- Air sampling using personal pumps and collection media.
- Direct-reading particulate monitoring with DustTrak, and bulk sampling.
Main Results:
- Exposure measurements included respirable, inhalable, total, and silica dust; solvents; metals; asbestos; diesel exhaust; and man-made mineral fibers (MMMF).
- Results indicate potentially hazardous chemical agent exposures for Ontario construction workers.
- Silica exposure levels were notably lower than reported in other studies.
Conclusions:
- Ontario construction workers are exposed to hazardous chemical agents.
- Silica exposure assessment in construction presents unique challenges and requires further investigation.
- Findings underscore the need for continued monitoring and control of occupational exposures in construction.
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