ABSTRACT
Following identification of an unusual cluster of cases of malignant melanoma among laboratory employees at this national facility, several studies were done to provide further understanding and solutions to the problem. This paper discusses the Laboratory's response, including the educational campaign and institution of self-examinations. Experience with the melanoma surveillance program to date reinforces its validity.
Subject(s)
Environmental Monitoring , Laboratories , Melanoma/diagnosis , Occupational Diseases/diagnosis , California/epidemiology , Epidemiological Monitoring , Humans , Melanoma/epidemiology , Occupational Diseases/epidemiology , Self-Examination , Skin Neoplasms/diagnosis , Skin Neoplasms/epidemiologyABSTRACT
Recent studies suggest that semiconductor workers have an increased incidence of work-related illness. Semiconductor manufacturing is a chemically intensive industry involving many potentially hazardous operations. As this industry moves into new geographic areas, health care professionals will be asked to evaluate medical or workplace conditions associated with unfamiliar and complex production processes. This paper provides an overview of semiconductor manufacturing processes for these health practitioners. Each step of device fabrication is detailed with its attendant chemical and physical hazards. Broader concepts of industrial control technology, clean room ventilation, and ergonomics are explained. The hazards are tabulated to allow rapid assessment of the risks inherent to each processing step. References have been chosen to guide the reader to more indepth information.
Subject(s)
Occupational Diseases/etiology , Semiconductors , Ergonomics , Humans , Oxidation-Reduction , Respiratory Protective Devices , Silicon/adverse effects , Solvents/adverse effectsABSTRACT
Approximately 70 per cent of all poisonings reported to poison control centers will be referred after home or hospital management to the primary care physician. When a patient presents to the physician's office following a poisoning, the care provider must know when hospitalization is needed, what equipment should be available, and where information about the toxin can be obtained.
Subject(s)
Poisoning/therapy , Acute Disease , Adult , Child, Preschool , Chronic Disease , Family Practice , Follow-Up Studies , Humans , Male , Poisoning/diagnosis , Prognosis , Time FactorsABSTRACT
Toxic gases are among the most dangerous materials used in manufacturing semiconductors and related devices. The storage, handling, and disposal of these gases pose a major hazard to workers and to communities located near high-technology companies. It must be anticipated that accidents, acts of terrorism, and natural calamities will result in exposure. Flammability, corrosiveness, and concentration must be considered, as well as the immediate danger to life and known human health effects of the gases used.