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The Development of a COVID-19 Control Measures Risk Matrix for Occupational Hygiene Protective Measures
Kelvin Williams1, John W Cherrie2,3, John Dobbie4
1Kelvin Williams Ltd., Newport, Gwent, UK.
Annals of Work Exposures and Health
|July 19, 2021
Summary
The British Occupational Hygiene Society developed a COVID-19 risk assessment tool for employers. Initial findings link higher-risk jobs to increased mortality, but further validation is needed.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
- Risk Assessment
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid risk assessment tools for workplaces.
- Objective exposure data for workers was limited during the pandemic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a control banding matrix for assessing COVID-19 infection risks in occupational settings.
- To provide guidance for employers on implementing control measures.
Main Methods:
- Development of a control banding matrix based on occupational hygiene principles and expert judgment.
- Categorization of jobs into five exposure levels.
- Linking exposure categories to generic intervention guidance.
Main Results:
- The matrix was widely adopted, with over 2000 downloads.
- Jobs ranked with highest exposure showed correlation with higher age-standardized mortality.
- Significant variability observed in assessor judgments.
Conclusions:
- The control banding matrix provides a precautionary approach to managing workplace COVID-19 risks.
- Further research is recommended to validate the tool's reliability and consistency.
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