Quantitative risk assessment of occupational exposure to PCDD/Fs in the waste incineration industry / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To analyze the level of PCDD/Fs exposure of occupational workers in the waste incineration industry and explore the risk of occupational exposure. Methods: In September 2021, literature on environmental PCDD/Fs exposure in waste incineration plants published from the establishment of the database to February 10, 2021 was retrieved from CNKI database. A total of 1365 literatures were retrieved, and 7 met the criteria for inclusion. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) inhalation risk model was used to assess and analyze carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks of PCDD/Fs exposure among occupational workers in the waste incineration industry. Results: A total of 86 sampling sites were included in incineration plants in 7 regions. The study of Wuhan area showed that the concentration of working environment near the waste incinerator in the same factory was the highest, followed by the rest and office area in the factory. The concentration of PCDD/Fs in waste incinerators was the highest in Southwest China (4880.00-24880.00 pg TEQ/m(3)), and the lowest in Shenzhen (0.02-0.44 pg TEQ/m(3)). According to the cancer risk assessment, with the increase of exposure years, the risk of cancer increased. The highest risk of cancer was found in the waste incineration plants in Southwest China. When the exposure period was 1 year, the risk was moderate (22.40×10(-6)-114.20×10(-6)). When the exposure time was more than 5 years, the risk of cancer was high. In Jinan, workers working near the incinerator had a moderate risk of cancer after five years of exposure. In Zhejiang, workers were at medium risk of cancer after exposure for more than 20 years. Workers in Wuhan, Shanghai, Zhejiang Province, Shenzhen and the Pearl River Delta were still at low risk of cancer after 40 years of occupational exposure. HQ>1 of workers working near the waste incinerators in Jinan, Zhejiang Province and Southwest China, and the qualitative evaluation results showed that the non-carcinogenic risk was unacceptable. Conclusion: There are great differences in PCDD/Fs of occupational exposure in waste incineration industry, and the occupational exposure exceeding the occupational exposure limit has higher carcinogenic and non carcinogenic risks.

Effects of emissions from sugar cane burning on the trachea and lungs of Wistar rats / Efeitos das emissões geradas pela queima da cana-de-açúcar em traqueia e pulmões de ratos Wistar

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effects of exposure to emissions from sugar cane burning on inflammatory mechanisms in tissues of the trachea and lung parenchyma in Wistar rats after different periods of exposure. Methods: This was an experimental open randomized study. The animals were divided into four groups: a control group (CG) underwent standard laboratory conditions, and three experimental groups were exposed to emissions from sugar cane burning over different periods of time, in days-1 (EG1), 7 (EG7), and 21 (EG21). After euthanasia with 200 mg/kg of ketamine/xylazine, fragments of trachea and lung were collected and fixed in 10% formalin. Histological analyses were performed with H&E and picrosirius red staining. Results: No inflammatory infiltrates were found in the tissues of CG rats. The histological examination of tissues of the trachea and lung parenchyma revealed that the inflammatory process was significantly more intense in EG7 than in the CG (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). In comparison with the CG and EG1, angiogenesis in the lung parenchyma and collagen deposition in tracheal tissues were significantly greater only in EG21 (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). Conclusions: In this sample, emissions from sugar cane burning induced acute focal and diffuse inflammation in the lamina propria of tracheal tissues, with no loss of ciliated epithelial tissue. In the lung parenchyma of the animals in the experimental groups, there was interstitial and alveolar edema, together with polymorphonuclear cell infiltrates.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da exposição à fumaça da queima da cana-de-açúcar sobre mecanismos inflamatórios em tecidos de traqueia e de parênquima pulmonar de ratos Wistar após diferentes períodos de exposição. Métodos: Estudo experimental, randomizado, não cego. Os animais foram divididos em quatro grupos: controle (GC), sob condições padrão de laboratório e os demais expostos à fumaça da queima da cana-de-açúcar por diferentes períodos: em 1 (GE1), 7 (GE7) e 21 (GE21) dias. Após a eutanásia com 200 mg/kg de ketamina/xilazina, foram coletados fragmentos de traqueia e pulmão e fixadas em formol 10%. Análises histológicas foram realizadas com coloração com H&E e picrosírius. Resultados: Não houve infiltrado inflamatório nos tecidos no GC. O processo inflamatório na análise histológica de tecidos de traqueia e de parênquima pulmonar foi significativamente mais intenso no GE7 quando comparado ao GC (p < 0,05 e p < 0,01, respectivamente). Em comparação com os grupos GC e GE1, apenas no GE21 foi observada angiogênese significativa no parênquima pulmonar e aumento significativo de depósitos de colágeno em tecido de traqueia (p < 0,001 e p < 0,01, respectivamente). Conclusões: Nesta amostra, a fumaça da queima de cana-de-açúcar induziu processo inflamatório focal, difuso e agudo em tecidos de traqueia na lâmina própria, sem perda do tecido epitelial ciliado. Houve presença de edemas intersticiais e alveolares e infiltrados de células polimorfonucleares no parênquima pulmonar nos animais dos grupos experimentais.

Effects of air pollution caused by sugarcane burning in Western São Paulo on the cardiovascular system

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of acute exposure to air pollutants (NO2 and PM10) on hospitalization of adults and older people with cardiovascular diseases in Western São Paulo. METHODS Daily cardiovascular-related hospitalization data (CID10 – I00 to I99) were acquired by the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) from January 2009 to December 2012. Daily levels of NO2 and PM10 and weather data were obtained from Companhia Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo (CETESB – São Paulo State Environmental Agency). To estimate the effects of air pollutants exposure on hospital admissions, generalized linear Poisson regression models were used. RESULTS During the study period, 6,363 hospitalizations were analysed. On the day of NO2 exposure, an increase of 1.12% (95%CI 0.05–2.20) was observed in the interquartile range along with an increase in hospital admissions. For PM10, a pattern of similar effect was observed; however, results were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Even though with values within established limits, NO2 is an important short-term risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity.

Análise morfoestrutural de biomateriais para auxílio no processo de identificação humana / Morphostructural analysis of biomaterials for assistance in the human identification process

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar as alterações de biomateriais restauradores e protéticos submetidos a temperaturas elevadas para o estabelecimento de parâmetros físicos que auxiliem nos casos de identificação humana em corpos carbonizados. A amostra do estudo experimental in vitro foi composta por 40 corpos de prova dividida em quatro grupos: GI (corpos de prova de cimentos de iônomero de vidro químico), GII (amálgamade prata), GIII (resina composta híbrida) e GIV (liga de cobre alumínio). Os corpos de prova foram submetidosa temperaturas de 300°C, 500°C, 700°C e 900°C. Após a incineração, os biomateriais foram submetidos a análises macroscópicas sobre as modificações de estrutura, coloração, forma e estabilidade dimensional e os dados analisados pela Análise de Variância e teste de Dunn (p<0,05). Os dados obtidos demonstraram em relação à radiopacidade uma diferença estatisticamente significante para as médias de densidade radiográfica no GI entre as temperaturas 700°C e 900°C; GIV entre as temperaturas 300°C e 900°C; 500° e 900°C. O GII atingiu seu ponto de fusão à 700ºC com aspecto pulverulento e lojas isoladas de mercúrio a 900°C. O GIII apresentou mudança estrutural nas temperaturas à 700°C e 900°C. No GIV não se constatou modificações relevantes. Assim, pode-se coligir que a resina composta micro hibrida e o amálgama apresentam severas alterações morfoestruturais enquanto o ionômero de vidro e o cobre alumínio não sofrem mudanças significativas em suas características originais. As alterações sofridas pelos materiais fornecem dados relevantes para o auxilio no processo de identificação humana de corpos carbonizados.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes of restorative and prosthetic biomaterials subjected to high temperatures for the establishment of physical parameters that assist in cases of charred bodies in human identification. The sample of the experimental in vitro study was composed by 40 specimens divided into 4 groups: GI (specimens of cements of ionomer of chemical glass), GII(silver amalgam), GIII (hybrid composite resin) and GIV (copper alloy aluminum). The specimens were subjected to temperatures of 300°C, 500°C, 700°C and 900°C. After incineration the biomaterials were submitted macroscopic analysis on changes of structure, color, shape and dimensional stability and all data were analyzed by ANOVA and Dunn’s test (p <0.05). Regarding the radiopacity there was statistically significant difference for the mean radiographic density in GI temperatures within 700°C and 900°C; GIV temperatures within 300°C and 900°C, 500°C and 900°C. The GII has reached its melting point at 700ºC with powdery appearance and isolated stores of mercury at 900°C. The GIIIhad structural change at 700°C and 900°C. In GIV it not observed significant changes. Thus, one cangather that the micro hybrid composite resin and amalgam exhibit severe morpho structural changes while the glass ionomer aluminum and copper does not undergo significant changes in their original characteristics. The changes undergone by materials provide relevant data to aid in the identification process of human bodies charred.

Alteraciones morfológicas en dientes sometidos a altas temperaturas con interés forense / Morphological changes in teeth exposed to high temperatures with forensic purposes

Los dientes son los elementos más resistentes del esqueleto humano y son utilizados en muchas ocasiones en la rutina de los laboratorios forenses. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los cambios dentarios estructurales, morfológicos y del color que se producen tras la incineración, para ayudar en el manejo adecuado de las muestras en un escenario forense. Setenta dientes fueron expuestos a intervalos de temperatura de 100 °C a 1200 °C, durante 60 min. Un grupo control de 10 dientes no fue expuesto al choque térmico. Después de la incineración, los dientes fueron fotografiados y radiografiados para evaluar visualmente los cambios morfológicos. La medida del cambio de color fue realizada mediante un espectrofotómetro. Los resultados mostraron cambios estructurales y del color, así como alteraciones radiológicas, que se relacionaron con el intervalo de temperatura a la que fueron incinerados los dientes. En conclusión, es posible informar sobre la temperatura aproximada de calcinación de los dientes basándose en los cambios fotográficos, radiográficos y del color.

Teeth are the most resistant elements of the human skeleton and are thus often used in routine forensic research laboratories. The objective of this study was to describe structural, morphological and color changes that occur post heating the teeth to aid in proper handling of samples in a forensic scenario based on their condition. Seventy teeth were exposed to different temperature intervals, ranging from 100 °C to 1 200 °C for 60 min using a laboratory oven. Ten unheated teeth were used as controls for the study. After incineration, the teeth were photographed and radiographed to visually assess morphological changes. The measure of color change was performed with a spectrophotometer. The results showed structural and color changes as well as radiographic abnormalities, which were associated to the temperature interval at which the teeth were cremated. In conclusion, it is possible to inform about incineration tooth temperature based on photographic, radiographic and color changes.

Air pollutants and hospital admission due to pneumonia in children: a time series analysis / Poluentes atmosféricos e internações por pneumonia em crianças. Um estudo de série temporal

Summary Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the association between expo sure to air pollutants and hospitalization for pneumonia among children in a medium-sized city located in the sugar cane plantation region of São Paulo State. Methods: An ecological time-series study was conducted with daily data of hospi talization for pneumonia including children aged 10 years or younger living in Ar araquara, state of São Paulo, from January 1st, 2010, to November 30th, 2012. To es timate the association between hospitalization due to pneumonia and particulate pollutants with aerodynamic diameter less than 10 µm, nitrogen dioxide and ozone, relative risks for hospitalization according to a generalized additive model of Pois son regression, with Lags of up to five days, were calculated. A percentage increase (PI) was obtained for relative risk (IRR - increase on relative risk) of hospitalization at each 10 µg/m3 increment in each air pollutants adjusted for the remaining. Results: A total of 234 hospitalizations were recorded during these three years. There was a strong association between hospitalization and PM10 and NO2. The PI in relative risk was 15% to PM10 in Lag 0 and 7% points in Lag 1 for NO2. Conclusion: There was evidence of the action of air pollutants on hospitaliza tion for pneumonia in a medium-sized city located in a region affected by air pollution from sugarcane burning and the data presented here provide subsi dies for the implementation of public policies aiming to decrease this risk.

Resumo Objetivo: estimar a associação entre exposição a poluentes atmosféricos e internações por pneumonia em crianças de uma cidade de médio porte em região de plantio de cana-de-açúcar no Estado de São Paulo. Métodos: estudo ecológico de séries temporais com dados de internação por pneumonia em crianças com até 10 anos de idade residentes em Araraquara, SP, de 1 de janeiro de 2010 a 30 de novembro de 2012. Para estimar a associação entre internações por pneumonia e material particulado (MP) com diâmetro aerodinâmico inferior a 10 µm, dióxido de nitrogênio e ozônio, foram calculados os riscos relativos para internação segundo modelo aditivo generalizado de regressão de Poisson, com defasagens de até cinco dias. Foi obtido o aumento percentual (ppt) no risco relativo (ARR - aumento no risco relativo) para internação segundo aumento de 10 µg/m3 para cada poluente ajustado para os demais. Resultados: registraram-se 234 internações nos três anos de estudo. Houve forte associação entre as internações e o MP10 e o NO2. O ARR foi de 15 ppt para MP10 no mesmo dia da exposição e de 7 ppt no primeiro dia após a exposição ao NO2. Conclusão: houve evidências da ação de poluentes do ar sobre internações por pneumonia em uma cidade de médio porte em região afetada por poluição do ar decorrente de queima da palha da cana-de-açúcar. Os dados apresentados fornecem subsídios para implantação de políticas públicas visando à diminuição desses riscos.

Risk and culture: variations in dioxin risk perceptions, behavioral preferences among social groups in South Korea

OBJECTIVES: This study examined variations in the perceptions of dioxin risk among social groups defined by geographical living location, environmental education, and occupation. Dioxin risk perceptions were analyzed according to values, risk awareness, knowledge, and behavioral preferences. METHODS: A quasi-experimental survey was designed and conducted on individuals from seven experimental groups in Jeonju city, South Korea, including: people living near incineration facilities; people living far from incineration facilities; governmental experts; nongovernmental organization members; office workers in developmental institutes or banks; students who were enrolled in environmental-related classes; and students who were enrolled in business-related classes. RESULTS: The results show variations among groups in values, awareness and behavioral preferences. Particular attention should be given to the result that groups with higher connectedness- to-nature values show higher willingness-to-act (WTA) for risk reduction. Result s can be summarized as follows. First, awareness is associated with one's geographical setting. Second, values and WTA behaviors are related to one's environmental-related education and occupation. Third, values are significantly related to WTA behaviors. CONCLUSIONS: Different cultures, in terms of values or worldview, among groups influence their perceptions of dioxin risk and choices of risk reduction behaviors. It is important to consider values in communicating complicated long-term risk management involving public participation. Further research should be continuously conducted on the effects of multiple dimensions of values on one's WTA for risk reduction behaviors.

Nanowastes treatment in environmental media

OBJECTIVES: This paper tried to review a recent research trend for the environmental exposure of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) and its removal efficiency in the nanowaste treatment plants. METHODS: The studies on the predicted environmental concentrations (PEC) of ENMs obtained by exposure modeling and treatment (or removal) efficiency in nanowaste treatment facilities, such as wastewater treatment plant (WTP) and waste incineration plant (WIP) were investigated. The studies on the landfill of nanowastes also were investigated. RESULTS: The Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology group has led the way in developing methods for estimating ENM production and emissions. The PEC values are available for surface water, wastewater treatment plant effluents, biosolids, sediments, soils, and air. Based on the PEC modeling, the major routes for the environmental exposure of the ENMs were found as WTP effluents/sludge. The ENMs entered in the WTP were 90-99% removed and accumulated in the activated sludge and sludge cake. Additionally, the waste ash released from the WIP contain ENMs. Ultimately, landfills are the likely final destination of the disposed sludge or discarded ENMs products. CONCLUSIONS: Although the removal efficiency of the ENMs using nanowaste treatment facilities is acceptable, the ENMs were accumulated on the sludge and then finally moved to the landfill. Therefore, the monitoring for the ENMs in the environment where the WTP effluent is discharged or biomass disposed is required to increase our knowledge on the fate and transport of the ENMs and to prevent the unintentional exposure (release) in the environment.

Poluição da queima de cana e sintomas respiratórios em escolares de Monte Aprazível, SP / Sugar cane burning pollution and respiratory symptoms in schoolchildren in Monte Aprazível, Southeastern Brazil / Polución de la quema de caña y síntomas respiratorios en escolares de Monte Aprazível, Sureste de Brasil

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência de sintomas respiratórios e analisar fatores associados, bem como medidas de pico de fluxo expiratório em escolares. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo transversal com escolares de dez a 14 anos de Monte Aprazível, SP. Foram aplicados questionários sobre sintomas de asma e de rinite do protocolo International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood, questões sociodemográficas, fatores predisponentes e antecedentes pessoais e familiares. Foram realizadas medidas repetidas do pico de fluxo expiratório nas crianças e dos níveis de concentração de material particulado (MP2,5) e de black carbon. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de sintomas de asma foi de 11 por cento e de 33,2 por cento de rinite; 10,6 por cento apresentaram mais de quatro crises de sibilos nos últimos 12 meses. Antecedentes familiares para bronquite e rinite associaram-se à presença de asma (p = 0,002 e p < 0,001) e de rinite atuais (p < 0,001 e p < 0,001, respectivamente). Para rinite, houve associação com presença de mofo ou rachadura na casa (p = 0,009). Houve maior freqüência de rinite nos meses de junho a outubro, período de safra da cana de açúcar. Prevalência diária de pico de fluxo expiratório abaixo de 20 por cento da mediana de medidas na criança foi maior em dias com maior concentração de MP2,5. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de sintomas de asma está abaixo e a de rinite está acima da média nacional. Ainda que dentro dos níveis aceitáveis, a poluição nos períodos de queima da palha da cana-de-açúcar pode contribuir para a exacerbação de episódios de asma e de rinite.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and to analyze associated factors as well as peak expiratory flow measurements in schoolchildren. METHODS: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study with schoolchildren aged 10-14 from the city of Monte Aprazível (Southeastern Brazil). Questionnaires containing the asthma and rhinitis components of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood were administered. The questionnaires also approached sociodemographic characteristics, predisposing factors, and family and personal medical history. Repeated measures of peak expiratory flow in the children, and of black carbon and particulate matter (PM2,5) concentration levels were carried out. RESULTS: The prevalence of asthma and rhinitis symptoms was 11 percent and 33.2 percent, respectively. Among asthmatic children, 10.6 percent presented four or more wheezing attacks in the past 12 months. Past family history of bronchitis and rhinitis was associated with presence of asthma (p=0.002 and p <0.001) and rhinitis (p <0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). Regarding rhinitis, there was association with presence of mold or cracks on the house (p=0.009). Rhinitis was most frequent from June to October, a period that matches the sugarcane harvest season. Daily prevalence of peak expiratory flow below 20 percent of the median of each child's measurements was higher in days with greater PM2,5 concentration. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of asthma symptoms is below and that of rhinitis is above the national average. Although within acceptable levels, pollution in the cane trash burn season may contribute to the exacerbation of asthma and rhinitis episodes.

OBJETIVO: Estimar la prevalencia de síntomas respiratorios y analizar factores asociados, así como medidas de pico de flujo expiratorio en escolares. MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo transversal con escolares de diez a 14 años de Monte Aprazível, Sureste de Brasil. Se aplicaron cuestionarios sobre síntomas de asma y de rinitis del protocolo International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood, preguntas sociodemográficas, factores predisponentes y antecedentes personales y familiares. Se realizaron medidas repetidas del pico de flujo expiratorio en los niños y de los niveles de concentración de material particulado (MP2,5) y de black carbon. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de síntomas de asma fue de 11 por ciento y de 33,2 por ciento de rinitis, 10,6 por ciento presentaron más de cuatro crisis de silbidos en los últimos 12 meses. Antecedentes familiares para bronquitis y rinitis se asociaron a la presencia de asma (p=0,002 y p<0,001) y de rinitis actuales (p<0,001 y p<0,001, respectivamente). Para rinitis, hubo asociación con la presencia de moho o rajadura en la casa (p=0,009). Hubo mayor frecuencia de rinitis en los meses de junio a octubre, período de cosecha de caña de azúcar. Prevalencia diaria de pico de flujo expiratorio debajo de 20 por ciento de la mediana de medidas en el niño fue mayor en días con mayor concentración de MP2,5. CONCLUSIONES: La prevalencia de síntomas de asma está por debajo y la de rinitis está por encima del promedio nacional. A pesar de estar dentro de los niveles aceptables, la polución en los períodos de quema de paja de caña de azúcar puede contribuir en la exacerbación de episodios de asma y de rinitis.

Outcome of 7-S, TQM technique for healthcare waste management

To assess the present waste management system of healthcare facilities [HCFs] attached with Shalamar Hospital, Lahore by applying the 7-S technique of Total Quality Management [TQM] and to find out the outcome after imparting training. Interventional quasi-experimental study. The Shalamar Hospital, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, November, 2009 to November, 2010. Mckinsey's 7-S, technique of TQM was applied to assess the 220 HCFs from Lahore, Gujranwala and Sheikhupura districts for segregation, collection, transportation and disposal [SCTD] of hospital waste. Direct interview method was applied. Trainings were provided in each institution. After one year action period, the status of four areas of concern was compared before and after training. The parameters studied were segregation, collection, transportation and disposal systems in the 220 HCFs. Each of these were further elaborated by strategy, structure, system, staff, skill, style and stakeholder/shared value factors. Standard error of difference of proportion was applied to assess significance using 95% confidence level. There was marked improvement in all these areas ranging from 20% to 77% following a training program of 3 months. In case of disposal of the waste strategy, structure and system an increase of 60%, 65% and 75% was observed after training. The 7-S technique played a vital role in assessing the hospital waste management system. Training for the healthcare workers played a significant role in healthcare facilities

Análise espacial dos riscos à saúde associados à incineração de resíduos sólidos: avaliação preliminar / Spatial analysis of the health risks associated with solid waste incineration: a preliminary analysis

Objetivo: examinar se as emissões do incinerador de resíduos sólidos Vergueiro estavam associadas a um risco aumentado de câncer entre a população residente em seu entorno. Método: a área de influência deste incinerador foi delimitada por um raio de 7 km a partir de seu centróide georeferenciado. Os óbitos de indivíduos residentes em distritos administrativos contidos nessa área, no período de 1998 a 2002, por câncer de pulmão, fígado, laringe e linfoma não-Hodgkin em adultos, e por leucemia e todos cânceres combinados em crianças, foram selecionados e geocodificados. A área estudada foi dividida em 7 (sete) anéis concêntricos delimitados por raios de 1 a 7 km a partir do incinerador. A análise da associação entre proximidade residencial ao incinerador e mortalidade por câncer foi baseada na comparação entre número de casos observados e esperados, utilizando-se o teste de Stone para examinar o declínio do risco (razão O/E) com a distância do incinerador. Resultados: a área estudada incluiu 1.599.532 habitantes, sendo 92.894 crianças < 5 anos e 634.993 adultos > 40 anos. Não se observou um gradiente espacial nas razões de mortalidade conforme aumenta a distância do incinerador para nenhuma das causas e morte examinadas. Conclusão: embora não tenha sido detectado aumento no risco dos cânceres previamente selecionados, é importante monitorar as emissões de incineradores ainda em funcionamento e seus possíveis efeitos na saúde. O estudo da distribuição da morbimortalidade em áreas circunvizinhas a essas instalações pode vir a ser uma opção metodológica para atividades de vigilância.

Objectives: to examine if emissions from the Vergueiro solid waste incinerator are associated with an increased risk of cancer in the population in its vicinity. Methods: the area under influence of this incinerator was delimited by a 7 km radius from its geocoded centroid. Deaths of city residents in administrative districts inside this area due to cancer of lung, liver, larynx, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in adults, leukemia, and all sites combined in children, in the 1998 to 2002 period, were selected and geocoded. The studied area was divided into 7 concentric rings delimited by a radius of 1 to 7 km from the incinerator. The analysis of the relationship between residential proximity to the incinerator and mortality due to cancer was based on the comparison of observed and expected cases, using the Stone test for decline in risk with distance from the incinerator. Results: the area studied comprised 1,599,532 inhabitants, of which 92,894 were children less than 5 years old and 634,993 were adults over 40 years old. No spatial gradient in risk was observed for any outcome in relation to distance from the incinerator. Conclusion: although no excess risk for the selected cancers were observed, emissions of incinerators still operating and their possible health effects should be monitored. The study of the spatial distribution of health events in areas around point sources of air pollution can become a methodological option for surveillance activities.

Residuos sólidos: la basura es problema de todos / Solid waste: waste is everybody's problem

Son diversos los problemas ocasionados por el ser humano al medio ambiente, de hecho se asiste a una profunda crisis ambiental, originada por la especie biológica más poderosa que a crecido en la población.

Trabalho e saúde: a atividade da queima de resíduos tóxicos em fornos de cimenteiras de Cantagalo, Rio de Janeiro / Work and health: the activity of burning toxic waste in cement kilns in Cantagalo, Rio de Janeiro State

Este estudo ocupa-se de analisar as condições de trabalho e saúde a partir dos relatos dos trabalhadores envolvidos na atividade de coprocessamento de resíduos tóxicos em fornos de cimenteiras de Cantagalo (RJ). Realizamos uma investigação qualitativa baseada na utilização de roteiro semi-estruturado, na qual foram entrevistados treze indivíduos. Na análise do discurso, foi possível observar falhas no planejamento do processo de trabalho, na identificação de riscos, na prevenção de agravos, no monitoramento de impactos à saúde e ao ambiente, bem como na identificação e notificação aos órgãos competentes. A assimilação das incertezas do processo, favorecendo os interesses dos empreendedores, permitiu que recaísse sobre os trabalhadores o ônus do adoecimento, aceitável na medida em que se negam evidências clínicas. Torna-se imperioso amplo debate que envolva entes públicos e privados, a sociedade e suas representações, confrontando-se questões éticas, ambientais e de saúde aos interesses do capital, para que se estabeleçam novas diretrizes para o processo.

This study analyzes the work and health conditions through the discourse of the employees involved in the activity of toxic waste co-processing in cement kilns in Cantagalo, RJ. A qualitative approach was adopted using a semi-structured interview with 13 individuals. After analyzing the discourse, it was possible to observe relevant failures in the work process planning, in the identification of risks, in preventing diseases, in monitoring health impacts and to the environment, even their identification and notification to the competent authorities. The assimilation of the uncertainties of the process, favoring the interests of the entrepreneurs, has passed on the workers the burden of illness, rendered acceptable in that they deny clinical evidences. It is imperative to establish a broad debate involving public and private entities, the society in all its representations, confronting ethical, environmental and health issues to the interests of capital in order to set new guidelines for the process.

A coincineração de resíduos em fornos de cimento: riscos para a saúde e o meio ambiente / Co-incineration in cement kilns: health and environmental risks

O objetivo do artigo é discutir a forma como a coincineração de resíduos em fábricas de cimento vem crescendo no Brasil, bem como seus impactos sobre a saúde humana e o meio ambiente. Informações gerais sobre mercado e efeitos sobre a saúde foram obtidas através de revisão bibliográfica e alguns estudos de caso, escolhidos a partir de debate com integrantes da Rede Brasileira de Justiça Ambiental, foram construídos para ilustrar a situação no Brasil. Os estudos encontrados mostraram que, independente do nível de desenvolvimento tecnológico dos países, a saúde dos trabalhadores e das pessoas que moram próximas às fábricas de cimento vem sendo prejudicada pela poluição emitida pelas empresas de cimento, em especial por aquelas que praticam a coincineração. Além disso, no contexto brasileiro, a vulnerabilidade das instituições e populações afetadas tende a agravar este problema. Como conclusão, defende-se o aumento da capacidade institucional dos órgãos brasileiros responsáveis pelo monitoramento das atividades industriais, bem como uma rediscussão mais aprofundada dos aspectos políticos e éticos ligados ao transporte e comércio de resíduos industriais.

In this article we discuss the development of hazardous waste co-incineration in cement kilns in Brazil as well as its impacts on health and the environment. Information was gathered through an extensive review on social and environmental impacts of co-incineration, and case studies, chosen after discussion with social movement representatives concerned with the co-incineration issue and related to the Brazilian Network on Environmental Justice, are described to illustrate the reality of co-incineration in Brazil. Studies showed that workers and community health suffers negative impacts from such practices in high-, middle- and low-income countries. In the Brazilian context, the institutional and social vulnerability intensifies these problems. To conclude, we argue for the necessity of increasing the institutional capacity of health and environmental agencies in Brazil, through staff training and better infra-structure. Additionally, we also propose a return of the debate about political and ethical aspects of industrial waste trade.

Transient mass transfer modeling and simulation of polybrominated diphenyl ethers combustion in incinerators

In this paper, modeling and simulation of combustion process for polybrominated diphenyl ethers in rotary kilns has been investigated. Proper formula is found for the solid wastes which contain polybrominated diphenyl ethers and then combustion process is simulated by considering possible reactions, appropriate dimensions and operating conditions for rotary kiln and necessary relations for reaction rates. The software of MATLAB is used for the simulation. The mass variations for solid waste, outlet gas and its components are calculated during 20 h. The results show that the reaction rate is high for the first 2 h, thus the value of solid waste and oxygen decrease quickly while value of produced gases increases. The mass increase of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans and polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins/furans during the whole time of the process is linear with mild slope but for the other compounds, including steam, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, nitrogen oxide, sulphur dioxide, hydrogen chloride and hydrogen bromine, the slope of variations becomes mild after 3 h. The process becomes steady state almost after 9 h

Incinerateur de dechets medicaux a base de materiaux locaux : experience de la campagne 2002 de vaccination anti-rougeole a Douala; Cameroun

Methode de choix pour detruire les dechets biomedicaux; l'incineration consiste a les reduire en cendres par une combustion a 800oC; detruisant les micro-organismes;supprimant les risques de blessure. L'incinerateur presente; de type modulaire double chambre preconise en pays en developpement; repond aux principes de : fabrication artisanale peu couteuse; combustion en exces d'air; reduction des risques d'accident ou de contamination; postcombustion des fumees; economie d'energie; manipulation et entretien faciles; securite d'utilisation. L'incinerateur; en briques d'argile de fabrication locale; solidarise par des cornieres d'acier; comporte deux chambres pour la combustion et la post-combustion. Un reservoir de carburant et un ventilateur permettent d'activer la combustion. Lemodele fonctionne par fournees en cycles de 2 heures. La campagne de vaccination anti-rougeole (decembre 2002) devait produire pour 5 districts deDouala 800000 seringues autobloquantes avec aiguilles. Immediatement jetes dans des boites de securite de carton (contenance 5 litres; 1 Kg); ces dechets etaient achemines jusqu'a l'incinerateur puis incineres en 2 fournees quotidiennes. Resultats. La construction de l'incinerateur a coute 3500000FCFA (5300 _). 5816 boites ont ete incinerees; soit 29080 litres; 872 400 seringues; 6 281 Kg de dechets. Leur incineration a necessite 126 fournees realisees en 11 semaines. Les cendres (240 litres; soit 0;8du volume incinere) ne contenaient pratiquement aucun residu solide. La consommation de gazole a ete negligeable. Les fumees n'ont jamais ete abondantes; opaques; ou malodorantes. Les temperatures mesurees lors d'essais prealables depassaient toujours 800oC. Selon l'OMS; les emissions toxiques sont negligeables au-dela de 700oC si l'incinerateur fonctionnemoins de 2 heures quotidiennes. L'experience devra etre completee par des travaux sur le controle des temperatures; la determination de la composition des cendres et fumees; des essais en differentes conditions climatiques et d'utilisation

Assessment of bio-medical waste management in three apex government hospitals of Agra.

Waste management practices in three apex government hospitals of Agra viz., Sarojini Naidu Medical College, Lady Lyall Maternity Hospital and District Hospital were studied during January 2004-January 2005. Data were collected with the help of (i) personal observations of the waste treatment and disposal practices and (ii) assessment of knowledge, attitude and practices of working personnel with the help of questionnaires. The results obtained indicated lack of knowledge and awareness regarding legislations on bio-medical waste management even among qualified hospital personnel. None of these hospitals were equipped with higher technological options e.g. incinerator autoclave, microwave and had no facilities to treat the liquid waste generated inside the hospital. It is concluded that generation and implementation of a waste management policy institutiona/organizational set up, training and motivation must be given paramount importance to meet the current needs and standards of bio-medical waste management in these hospitals.

Management of hazardous pharmaceutical waste generated from health care facilities

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency [USEPA], a number of drug entities and pharmaceutical formulations, generated in health care facilities, meet the definition of hazardous waste, including epinephrine, warfarin, nicotine, and seven chemotherapeutic agents. This study has been carried out to assess the hazardous pharmaceutical waste generation in one large multi-specialty hospital in Alexandria for the ultimate objective of recommending an environmentally sound management plan for this waste. Alexandria University Main Hospital was selected for the study. A checklist containing the names of the drugs that are considered hazardous upon disposal was developed. Data concerning the generation and the management of this waste were collected using 2 questionnaire forms. The study revealed that ten hazardous pharmaceuticals are generated from the hospital departments. They are Epinephrine, m-cresol, phenol, silver sulfadiazine, multi-mineral formulations containing Cr and Se, warfarin, cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, melphalan, and daunomycin. These drugs, as well as the other pharmaceutical waste, are managed as infectious waste: collected in yellow bags, stored in the storage area for infectious waste, and transported by the Private Company responsible for solid waste management in Alexandria Governorate to treatment by shredding and autoclaving prior to ultimate landfill. Consequently, the study recommended a hazardous pharmaceutical waste management plan taking into consideration other equally hazardous drugs such as all chemotherapeUtic agents, mutagenic or teratogenic substances, endocrine disruptors, and immunosuppressant drugs. Thermal destruction of all these drugs would provide the highest level of best management practice available at this time. The ash resulting has to be tested and eventually disposed in a lined hazardous waste landfill

Management of dental waste in a dental hospital of lahore

It is a descriptive study based on personal observations at Punjab Dental Hospital, Lahore carried out over a period of two weeks. A structured checklist was made to collect the data regarding the management of Dental hospital waste and filled in by observation. Final analysis was made with the help of Epi info 2002 statistical package. There was no categorization and segregation of infectious waste at the point of origin. Bags and containers for infectious waste were not marked with Biohazard symbol. White bags were not available for the general waste. There is no incinerator, storage site and landfill sights in the dental hospital. Transportation of waste within the hospital is through open baskets. Dental Hospital sends its infectious waste to the Children Hospital Lahore for incineration twice a week. Amalgam/mercury, X-ray developer and fixer waste were drained through main sewage system. Sanitary workers are not provided with the protective clothing, gloves, masks and shoes. Waste management at Punjab Dental Hospital is not satisfactory. Interest and motivation in hospital waste management is lacking. The administration is required to play its role