Use Of Personal Protective Equipment Research Articles

Analisis Potensi Bahaya Terhadap Program Kerja Departemen Maintenance Di Stasiun Sterilizer Menggunakan Metode Job Safety Analysis (JSA) di PT. X Nagan Raya

The Sterilizer Station at PT X Nagan Raya is a company facility that requires regular maintenance by the maintenance department to ensure its smooth operation. This facility has potential hazards that need to be analyzed in detail. This study aims to evaluate the potential hazards associated with the maintenance department's work program at the Sterilizer Station using the Job Safety Analysis (JSA) method, where potential hazards are evaluated for theassociated risk levels, namely low risk, medium risk, high risk, and extreme risk. The research approach used is qualitative with a descriptive design. Data was collected from the maintenance department's work program for the July-December 2023 period at the Sterilizer Station through direct observation and interviews using the JSA form. The informants in this study were 6 informants consisting of maintenance employees, maintenance assistants, HSEofficers and Assistant Mill Managers. The results of this study indicate that there are several potential hazards that can occur during the implementation of the maintenance department work program, such as the danger of falling on work equipment, slipping, electric shock, exposed to sparks, exposed to mesingerinda, iron cutters and electric welding machines. Based on the JSA analysis, several risk control measures are suggested, such as the use of appropriate and correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), routine maintenance of equipment, conducting daily monitoring, and paying attention to conditions.

The work-lives of Canadian Registered Dietitians during the COVID-19 pandemic: a descriptive analysis of survey data

BackgroundHealthcare workers experienced significant disruptions to both their personal and professional lives throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. How healthcare workers were impacted varied, depending on area of specialization, work setting, and factors such as gender. Dietetics is a female-dominated profession and the differential impact on women of the COVID-19 pandemic has been widely reported. While researchers have explored Registered Dietitians’ (RDs) experiences during the pandemic, none have looked explicitly at their experiences of redeployment. The objectives of this study were to better understand: (i) the impact of COVID-19 (and related redeployments) on the work-lives of RDs, (ii) what types of COVID-19 related supports and training were made available to these RDs, and (iii) the impact of RD redeployment on access to RD services.MethodsAn online survey was administered in June 2022. Any RD that that was publicly-employed in Canada during the pandemic was eligible to participate. The survey included questions related to respondent demographics, professional details, redeployment and training. We conducted descriptive analyses on the quantitative data.ResultsThe survey was completed by 205 eligible RDs. There were notable differences between public health and clinical RDs’ redeployment experiences. Only 17% of clinical RDs had been redeployed, compared to 88% of public health RDs. Public health RDs were redeployed for longer and were more likely to be redeployed to roles that did not required RD-specific knowledge or skills. The most commonly reported mandatory training was for proper use of personal protective equipment. The most commonly reported reasons for a lengthy absence from work were anxiety about contracting COVID-19, school closures and limited child care availability.ConclusionsPublic health RDs are at the forefront of campaigns to reduce the burden of chronic disease, improve health equity and enhance the sustainability of food systems. Close to 90% of these RDs were redeployed, with many seeing their typical work undone for many months. More research is needed to quantify the consequences of going without a public health nutrition workforce for an extended period of time and to understand the differential impact gender may have had on work experiences during the pandemic.

Occupational Exposure to Aerosolized Human Papillomavirus: Assessing and Addressing Perceptions of and Barriers to Vaccination of at-Risk Health Care Workers.

This study aimed to assess current vaccination rates among health care workers at risk for occupational human papillomavirus (HPV) exposure and explore factors that influence decisions about HPV vaccination. Using a mixed-methods design, this study included a questionnaire and qualitative focus groups. The study took place at an academic medical center. Participants were 37 health care professionals in occupations at risk for workplace HPV exposure. The primary qualitative outcome measured was HPV vaccination status. The primary qualitative outcomes assessed were perceptions of occupational HPV exposure risk, protective measures, and HPV vaccination. Most participants were female (86.5%, n = 32) and younger than 35 years (51.4%; n = 19) and therefore would have been eligible to receive the HPV vaccine series as a teenager or young adult. Nearly two-thirds (67.6%; n = 25) of participants had received the HPV vaccine; of those, half were vaccinated as teenagers (52%; n = 13). One-third (n = 4) of those vaccinated as adults reported vaccination due to workplace HPV exposure. Focus groups revealed themes consistent with the Health Belief Model. Most participants recognized their risk of aerosolized HPV exposure in the workplace but felt uneducated about occupational exposure risk and protective measures. Many participants recognized risk of exposure through surgical smoke but perceived that risk was stratified by medical specialty, proximity to surgical field, and personal protective equipment use. Many participants had some level of concern for head and neck lesions with exposure to aerosolized HPV. Most participants recognized the need to protect themselves against workplace HPV exposure. Those who were vaccinated felt that they were better protected against HPV exposure. Almost all participants said that they had not received formal education on workplace HPV exposure risk. Many participants voiced perceived barriers to HPV vaccination. Health care workers encounter the HPV virus in a myriad of fields and procedures. Our mixed-methods study demonstrated that at-risk health care workers feel uninformed about their risk of HPV exposure in the workplace, availability of HPV vaccination, and appropriate protective equipment recommendations.

Evaluation of the relationship between the establishment of the safety, health and environment management system on the performance of employees of the coking complex and refineries - Iranian Zarand Steel Company

Introduction: The present research was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between the establishment of safety, health and environment management system on the performance of coking complex employees and refineries of Iranian Zarand Steel Company. Therefore, at first, the dimensions and issues of establishing the safety, health and environment management system and the performance of employees were identified, and then the relationships between the identified variables were presented. Materials and Methods: Two standard questionnaires were used to collect data related to the measurement of research variables, which in total include 2 structures, 3 dimensions, and 20 questions. The content validity method was used to check the validity of the questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated as 0.863, which indicated the reliability of the questionnaire. The statistical population of this research includes the employees and experts of Iranian Zarand Steel Company. After ensuring the validity and reliability of the designed scales based on the calculations, the questionnaires were distributed to a sample of 260 people. To check the demographic data, descriptive statistics, K-S test to determine the normality of the data using SPSS24 software, to determine the construct validity using the confirmatory factor analysis test and for the relationships between the variables using the structural equation model using statistical software 3 SMART-PLS was performed. Results: The establishment of the safety, health and environment management system on the performance of employees with a factor load of 0.623 and the T-statistic of the test 9.803, as well as the safety, health and environment management system on the dimensions of employee performance, including increasing knowledge and quality of work, a better relationship with Colleagues, improvement of individual characteristics, development of skills and better supervision, improvement of creativity and improvement of customer orientation of Zarand Iranian Steel Company with factor loading of 0.555, 0.664, 0.430, 0.436, 0.424 and 0.461 respectively and the T-statistics of the test have a significant relationship of 8.086, 12.337, 5.069, 5.792, 5.055 and 6.629. Conclusion: The findings show that the establishment of the HSE management system has a significant effect on the performance of employees and its dimensions, including the quality of occupational health and safety rules, practical compliance with the law, management and cooperation, workplace processes, the use of personal protective equipment and empowering the behavior of managers and employees.

Impact of personal protective equipment on wearer's health indicators using multi-parameter physiological monitoring

Previous studies have primarily focused on thermal discomfort-related problems arising from wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) in hot environments. However, PPE is also extensively utilized under comfortable thermal conditions, where health-related problems may become particularly important due to hypoxia and inhalation of self-emitted bio-effluents. To evaluate the impact of wearing PPE on the health outcomes of individuals under comfortable thermal conditions, ten physiological parameters were measured under three conditions (sitting without PPE, sitting with PPE, and walking with PPE). Under light intensity activity, wearing PPE significantly increased end-tidal carbon dioxide pressure (17.9 ± 6.3 mm Hg vs 22.0 ± 5.7 mm Hg, P < 0.001) when compared to wearing no PPE, while negligible (although statistically significant) changes were observed for tympanic membrane temperature and blood oxygen saturation. It did not affect significantly respiratory frequency (RF), inspiratory carbon dioxide pressure (PICO2), heart rate (HR), pulse rate (PR), systolic/diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP), and potential of ST-segment (ST) in electrocardiogram. It suggests that short-term PPE use is safe under comfortable conditions. The physiological parameters of PPE wearers were more affected by the increase in activity intensity than the presence of PPE. Larger body mass index was associated with decreased RF and increased PICO2. Higher age was associated with increased HR and PR and decreased ST. Males had a lower SpO2 but a higher SBP. The data obtained improves our understanding of the health outcomes associated with wearing PPE and assists in improving PPE, thus contributing to better occupational health.

Personal Protective Equipment Use and Surface Contamination With Antineoplastic Drugs: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Surface contamination with antineoplastic drugs (ADs) is persistent. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended to reduce exposure to ADs. This study explored the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nurses' PPE use and surface contamination with ADs. Demographic characteristics, PPE use, and associated factors were assessed on two inpatient oncology units where etoposide and cyclophosphamide were administered before (N = 26) and during the COVID-19 pandemic (N = 31). PPE use when handling contaminated excreta was significantly higher during the pandemic. Perceived risk of chemotherapy exposure was significantly associated with greater PPE use when handling AD-contaminated excreta, and conflict of interest was related to less PPE use during AD administration and handling of AD-contaminated excreta. During the pandemic, surface contamination with etoposide increased in shared areas and decreased in patient rooms.

THE USE OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT BY PHARMACISTS AND RADIOGRAPHERS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN KENDAL DISTRICT

In order to control the transmission of covid-19 which entered Indonesia in early 2020, the government implemented health protocol regulations. Apart from health protocols, one of the steps that health workers can implement to control the transmission of covid-19 when providing services during the pandemic is to use personal protective equipment while working. This is the background for the author to study further in research that aims to determine the use of personal protective equipment used by pharmacists and radiographers during the covid-19 pandemic while in service in Kendal District. The research method used was descriptive qualitative by giving questionnaires electronically using google form to research respondents. The research results obtained include, the majority of respondents were female with a percentage of 62%, the health workers who participated as research respondents consisted of 38% pharmacists and 62% radiographers. The use of personal protective equipment used by pharmacists during the covid-19 pandemic includes masks and gloves which are adjusted to the risks of the work activities carried out. The use of personal protective equipment used by radiographers during the covid-19 pandemic includes wearing work clothes according to hospital regulations, surgical isolation gowns, N95 respirators, eye protection, medical gloves, closed shoes, face shields when carrying out medical interventions and tools additional personal protection according to the risks of the work activities carried out. So, it can be concluded that the personal protective equipment used by pharmacists and radiographers in Kendal District while on duty during the covid-19 pandemic has met the elements of compliance requirements in efforts to control the transmission of covid-19, such as the use of personal protective equipment based on indications for their use by considering the risk of exposure and possible transmission dynamics. By implementing appropriate personal protective equipment when working, it is hoped that pharmacists and radiographers in Kendal District can be protected from transmission of covid-19.

Analysis of Risk Factors and The Impact of Nitric Oxide (NO) and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Levels on Lung Function: A Comparative Study of Palm Oil Factory Workers and the Community in Kuantan Mudik District, Riau, Indonesia

Background: Air pollution, particularly from industrial sources like palm oil factories, poses a significant risk to respiratory health. This study aimed to investigate the impact of nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO) exposure on lung function in palm oil factory workers and compare it to the lung function of individuals in the surrounding community. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Kuantan Mudik District, Riau, Indonesia. One hundred palm oil factory workers with a minimum of two years of employment and 100 community members not occupationally exposed to NO and CO were recruited. Lung function was assessed using spirometry, and NO and CO levels were measured using specialized analyzers. Participants completed the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) questionnaire, and demographic and clinical data were collected. Statistical analyses included univariate, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: Factory workers exhibited significantly higher levels of NO (p=0.000) and a higher prevalence of restrictive lung function (17%) compared to the community members (3%). Multivariate analysis identified NO exposure as the most significant risk factor for restrictive lung function (p=0.005). Each unit increase in NO was associated with a 1.12-fold increased risk of restrictive lung function. CO exposure, age, gender, smoking history, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) were not significantly associated with lung function impairment in this study. Conclusion: Occupational exposure to NO in palm oil factories is a significant risk factor for restrictive lung function impairment. Regular monitoring of NO levels and the implementation of effective control measures are crucial to protect the respiratory health of palm oil factory workers.

Application of Bayesian Decision Analysis to Estimate Occupational Noise Levels from Limited Exposure Data

In recent years, Bayesian statistical modeling approaches have emerged as valuable tools in Industrial Hygiene (IH), particularly in situations with limited exposure data. This paper delves into the application of Bayesian Statistical Models, specifically Bayesian Decision Analysis (BDA), to analyze occupational noise exposure data within two Similar Exposure Groups (SEGs) of groundskeeping workers, addressing the pervasive issue of high noise levels exceeding 85 dBA. The primary aim is to estimate exposure levels based on the location of the exposure profiles for the SEGs within the AIHA® Exposure Control Categories (ECCs) 0-4, later modified and expanded to AIHA-ECC 0-5. This study employs BDA to estimate noise exposures among groundskeepers, emphasizing the scarcity of literature on BDA in noise exposure rating. Groundskeepers, facing potential risk of hearing impairment due to prolonged exposure, constitute a crucial and critical demographic, with nearly one million individuals in the United States alone. Noise data from the two SEGs was analyzed by using the Exposure Assessment Strategies Committee—EASC- AIHA® IHData Analyst for BDA modeling, complemented with the AIHA IHSTAT™ for certainty rating. The resulting posterior graphs were utilized to categorize exposure profiles into respective AIHA ECCs relative to noise OEL. These findings provide valuable insights, indicating a posterior probability of approximately 43.5% and 56.5% with 95% confidence that noise exposure levels fall within AIHA ECC 3 and AIHA ECC 4, respectively. However, while the 95% percentile decision statistics suggest exposure values lower than the OEL, the Upper Tolerance Limit (UTL) significantly surpass the OEL indicating low certainty regarding these exposure values for employees. Notably, the UTLs suggest that the SEGs are experiencing noise levels above the legally required 90 dBA for more than 5% of the time, which is an unacceptable scenario. Recommendations include implementing protective strategies such as regular training, surveillance, and monitoring, alongside engineering control strategies and mandatory use of personal protective equipment. These results underscore the critical need for refining judgments about noise exposures based on variability within and between employees, suggesting the use of additional statistical tools such as ANOVA (single-multivariate), MATLAB, and Python.

Determinants of Personal Protective Equipment Use Behavior Among Female Farmers of Childbearing Age Exposed to Pesticides in Dempo Selatan District Pagar Alam City

Determinants of Personal Protective Equipment Use Behavior Among Female Farmers of Childbearing Age Exposed to Pesticides in Dempo Selatan District Pagar Alam City

Sun-related knowledge and practices in Irish construction and agricultural workers.

Agricultural and construction workers spend much of their work time outdoors and have higher risks of developing skin cancer when compared to indoor workers. However, there is limited research on ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure knowledge, sun safety practices and constraints within these occupational groups in Ireland. This study aimed to examine self-reported time spent outdoors in a sample of Irish agricultural and construction workers; to describe and compare UVR exposure knowledge, safety practices and perceived constraints in both occupational groups, and to assess the association of demographic, personal and occupational factors with sun-related knowledge, practices and perceived constraints. Agricultural workers (n = 154) and construction workers (n = 467) completed a questionnaire, which measured solar UVR exposure knowledge, safety practices, and perceived constraints to sun personal protective equipment and sunscreen use in addition to demographic, personal, and workplace characteristics. Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to examine differences in knowledge, practices and perceived constraints by these characteristics. Both groups spend a significant proportion of their working week outdoors (25 hours per week on average). Although participation in sun safety training was high for both groups, UVR exposure knowledge and sunscreen use were low, and annual rates of reported sunburn were high. Knowledge, practices and perceived constraints also differed significantly according to demographic, personal, occupational and workplace characteristics. In addition to training by employers and advisory groups, interventions are required to address perceived barriers that impede the uptake and usage of control measures that can lower risk.

Risk of COVID­-19 Infection among Employees of a Large Anti­tuberculosis Institution in Moscow: Survey Results

Relevance. Studying the experience of working under the conditions of COVID-19 allows us to more effectively assess the functioning of anti-epidemic measures in the event of the occurrence or threat of new pandemics, including those caused by new pathogens. The risk of contracting COVID-19 among employees of medical organizations is higher compared to the rest of the population of the metropolis, which determines the need to develop additional measures in medical organizations to protect workers. Timely assessment of risks and preventive measures during a pandemic allow building a system to protect medical institutions from various biological threats when providing medical care. Aim. Assessment of the risks of contracting COVID-19 among employees of a large anti-tuberculosis medical organization in a metropolis. Materials &amp; Methods. A survey of employees of a large anti-tuberculosis medical organization in Moscow was conducted. The survey was conducted on 46 key questions of epidemiological history, compliance with the requirements of the sanitary and anti-epidemic regime, alleged sources of infection, prognostic risks of the occurrence and course of COVID-19. During the period from August 1 to October 1, 2022, 1225 employees of the institution were surveyed (43.8% of the total number). The survey was conducted on a voluntary basis and was anonymous. When answering questions, participants provided information about demographic factors (age, gender), place of actual residence, the fact of contracting a new coronavirus infection, frequency of laboratory testing for SARS-CoV-2, immunization against COVID-19, possible places of contact with patients with COVID-19, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) at home and at work, the regular use of skin antiseptics, as well as other information that allowed us to establish the risks of infection of workers at home and at work. To assess the risks of infection, respondents were divided into two groups depending on the presence of a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 (group I) or its absence (group II) as of October 1, 2022. The material for testing was nasal/oropharyngeal swabs. The research of employees was carried out on the basis of the laboratory of the anti-tuberculosis medical organization, as well as in other accredited laboratories of the metropolis using the molecular genetic method, and since February 2022 also using the express method that determines the SARS-CoV-2 antigen. Results. Among the survey participants and according to the questionnaire data, 797 employees suffered from the new coronavirus infection COVID-19, and 138 (17.3%) of them had repeated cases of the disease. Factors that increase the risk of COVID-19 among personnel of anti-tuberculosis medical organizations directly involved in the fight against the new coronavirus infection have been identified. The results of the study demonstrated that important factors influencing the incidence of workers were the frequency of examination for COVID-19, the regular use of skin antiseptics, contact with sources of infection, the use of glasses for vision correction, the use of public transport and eating at work. Conclusion. The need to study the risks of contracting COVID-19 among employees of medical organization and, based on them, develop a set of additional anti-epidemic protection measures was confirmed.

Combining biosafety expert’s evaluation and workers’ perception regarding the Biological Risks in Biomedical laboratories of Public Hospitals in Athens, Greece

Objectives: The aim of the present study was by combining an expert’s evaluation and laboratory workers’ perception, to review the biological risks in biomedical laboratories of public hospitals in Athens, Greece. It was also to evaluate how they are managing the biological materials, the level of safety awareness and training of the personnel, and to propose mitigation measures according to the existing risks, based on the local legislation and the international Biosafety guidelines. Materials and Methods: A total of 36 biosafety level-2 (BSL2) biomedical laboratories in 20 public hospitals were assessed for their biosafety containment specifics and compliance with biosafety practices. The study was designed as a cross-sectional study, with a checklist and a detailed health and safety (H&amp;S) questionnaire, focused on biosafety and biorisk management. An expert biosafety officer observed and filled in a checklist for each biomedical laboratory (n=36) of the 20 hospitals. Laboratory staff (medical laboratory doctors, medical laboratory technologists, laboratory assistants, biologists and biochemists; n = 415) filled in a specific to biosafety H&amp;S question­naire in each of these laboratories. Results: Both the results from the checklists and the questionnaires showed that in a significant percentage of laboratories there are the following deficiencies: restricted access and signage at the entrance, autoclaves in the laboratory area, ability to use the washbasins hands-free, biorisk management system, written risk assessments, biosafety manuals, standard operating procedures (SOPs), assigned biosafety officers, protocols about the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), insufficient biosafety training programs, accidents reporting, eyewash emergency shower system, first aid kits and emergency telephone numbers. On the positive site laboratory procedures are separated from management, sanitary and rest areas, laboratory surfaces and floors are easy to clean and disinfect, good laboratory Practices followed for all procedures, waste management is in compliance with the current Greek legislation and there are sufficient PPE available. Conclusion: In the laboratories studied there are significant shortcomings in containment and administrative controls, in the application of Greek and EU biosafety legislation, and in the proper management of biological agents and materials in general. This emphasizes the importance of closing key gaps in biosafety and emergency preparedness, in the biomedical laboratories. Using the results of this study, actions should be developed, applied and enforced, in compliance with the local and European legislation and guidelines. This could enhance the safety of these facilities, and the laboratory professionals, the community and the environment could be better protected from possible harmful biological agents and the possibility of Laboratory acquired infections (LAIs). This study also demonstrated the value of the laboratory workers participation in the risk evaluation, despite their propensity to over or under-estimate the risk level of the possible hazards. That fact should be considered in future studies when enhancing hospital staff.

Factors Associated with the Presence of E.coli in Food: Literature Review

Background: Escherichia coli is a gram-negative bacterium of normal flora of the human and animal digestive tracts, and is important in human digestion. These bacteria can live in the stool, and can cause health problems, such as: diarrhea, vomiting, and other digestive problems. E coli bacteria can be pathogenic if the number of bacteria in the digestive tract increases or is outside the intestine. Food Sanitation Efforts include supervision, protection, and improvement of hygiene and sanitation quality specifically for Ready-to-Eat Processed Foods. Food hygiene and sanitation quality supervision is carried out through: surveillance, laboratory tests, risk analysis, and/or follow-up recommendations. Protection of food hygiene and sanitation quality is carried out through: communication, information, and education; health checks of food handlers; use of personal protective equipment; and/or the development of appropriate technology. Improving the quality of food hygiene and sanitation is carried out through: communication, information, and education; and/or food processing technology engineering Objective: The purpose of this literature review is to find out the factors related to the presence of E.coli in food Method: The research method used is a literature study with a search method in a literature review, which searches for literature that is in accordance with relevant social media such as google scholar, garuda, e-journal in the field of diarrhea incidence. Search the literature as a reference from 2014-2024 and get 10 articles or journals that are relevant in the last 10 years. Results: The results of this literature review explain that factors related to the presence of e.coli in food in public places include: personal hygiene of food handlers, how to wash cutlery, PPE of food handlers are not paid attention to, poor food sanitation, food handlers do not pay attention to controlling environmental conditions from the handling of raw materials to the distribution process, the storage place of cutlery is not considered, and improper serving of food. Conclusion: The conclusion of this literature review article is that there are many factors related to the presence of e.coli in food in public places. And recommend to environmental health workers the need to socialize and supervise the hygiene and sanitation of traders in particular. To the general public to pay attention to the cleanliness of what will be consumed.

Occupational Safety: PPE Use and Hazard Experiences among Welders in Valencia City, Bukidnon

This study aimed to determine the significant difference on occupational hazards and the use of personal protective equipment when respondents are grouped according to their length of service and type of training undertaken among welders in Valencia City, Bukidnon. The study employed a quantitative approach utilizing a descriptive-comparative research design. Using non-probability sampling, 46 formally trained welders and another 51 informally trained welders in Valencia City, Bukidnon, were chosen as the respondents for this study. In the demographic profile, the findings showed that the majority, or 54%, of the respondents had 0 to 5 years of experience in terms of their length of service. Based on the statistical data, it was revealed that the level of experience in occupational hazards for both formally trained and informally trained welders was low. Additionally, the level of use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for formally trained welders was high, while for informally trained welders, it was moderate. When the test of difference was executed, the finding showed that the experience of occupational hazards does not differ when grouped according to the types of training undertaken. This denotes that formally and informally trained welders equally experience welding-related occupational hazards. Moreover, another finding showed that the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) differed according to the type of training undertaken. This finding suggests that formally trained welders are more likely to adhere to prescribed safety protocols and utilize recommended PPE, indicating a stronger awareness of occupational hazards and a deeper understanding of the importance of protective measures. Furthermore, the finding revealed that welders’ experience of occupational hazards differs by length of service. This denotes that veteran welders encounter a higher level of occupational hazards compared to their less-experienced counterparts. Subsequently, the last finding revealed that there is no significant difference in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) among the welders when grouped according to length of service. The researchers recommend that the emphasis on PPE compliance might be ingrained uniformly across all levels of experience, reflecting a robust culture of safety consciousness and an understanding of the indispensable role of protective gear in mitigating occupational risks.

Factors influencing nurses' compliance related to the use of personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic: A descriptive cross-sectional study.

To determine how nurses' experiences with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic affected their knowledge, awareness, and compliance related to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. A descriptive cross-sectional study. A total of 247 nurses in South Korea participated in this study between May 10 and 19, 2023. An online self-report questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic and occupational characteristics, COVID-19 experience, knowledge, awareness, and compliance related to the use of PPE. Factors affecting compliance were analysed using hierarchical multiple linear regression. Mean age of the nurses was 31.92, and 94.3% were women. Most had a bachelor's degree or higher and the mean clinical experience as a nurse was 6.45 years. Knowledge of the use of PPE was 8.45 out of 10, awareness was 3.52 out of 5, and compliance was 4.28 out of 5. Knowledge and awareness were correlated with compliance related to PPE use. Awareness (β = 0.234, p < 0.001), knowledge (β = 0.218, p < 0.001), experience caring for COVID-19 patients (β = 0.234, p = 0.004), optional fourth dose vaccine (β = 0.150, p = 0.017), clinical experience (β = 0.140, p = 0.022), and COVID-19 infection control education (β = 0.115, p = 0.037) were found to have a significant impact on compliance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses' knowledge and awareness of PPE use was a crucial factor in compliance. factors such as clinical experience, experience in caring for COVID-19 patients, optional vaccination, and completion of COVID-19 education also influenced compliance. We hope that these factors can provide a basis for developing training programs for nurses to respond to future emerging infectious diseases.

Characterization and Evaluation of a Government Health Center’s Bloodborne Pathogen Exposures (BBPE) Monitoring Program

Background: A vital role of hospital employee health is the management, characterization, and targeted prevention of bloodborne pathogen exposures (BPPE) among healthcare workers. A comprehensive review of a health center’s BPPE over time was conducted to identify areas for improvement and target education and training, given changes in BBPE standard operating procedures (SOPs) over time. Methods: A retrospective descriptive analysis was conducted on deidentified BBPE cases reported to employee health at VA Connecticut Healthcare System from 1995-2023 (N=296) using R statistical software. Results: The highest number of BBPE occurred among trainee physicians (N=103, 34.8%, especially surgery and internal medicine), registered nurses (N=60, 20.3%), and non-trainee physicians (N=45, 15.2%). The most frequently implicated devices were hollow-bore (N=103, 34.8%) and suture needles (N=60, 20.3%). Most BBPE occurred during surgical procedures (N=114, 38.5%) or medication administration (N=52, 17.6%). Over half of BBPE occurred during afternoons/nights (N=172, 58.1%). Over half occurred with use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (N=181, 61.1%). The majority of BBPE implicated finger injuries (N=220, 74.3%). Blood was the most frequently reported exposure (N=127, 42.9%), a similar percentage of records did not specifically name a body fluid type (N=121) or whether PPE was used (N=110). In most cases, the source patient was identified (N=282, 95.3%) and tested (N=272, 91.9%). Forty-three sources (14.5%) had positive BBP testing, which included HIV (N=14, 4.7%), hepatitis C (N=23, 7.8%), and hepatitis B (N=6, 2.0%). Most employees presented to employee health for initial evaluation (N=231, 78%) and underwent post-exposure testing (N=266, 89.9%); most had evidence of immunity to hepatitis B (N=246, 83.1%). Eighty-three employees (28%) received HIV PEP (average=1.9 days). Most records did not indicate if this was a first-time BBPE (N=250, 84.5%). No employee records indicated seroconversion for a bloodborne pathogen. Conclusions: Physicians and RNs, those performing surgical procedures and administering medications, and those on second and third shifts are at highest risk and may benefit from additional interventions such as exposure assessment or education. Required recordkeeping has been variable over time. Updated national SOPs have been adapted to employee health, though additional details could be considered for quality improvement purposes, such as duration of employment, level of training, and prior BBPE prevention education. It is unclear if some information such as history of BBPE or PPE use was elicited but not documented – this information could be helpful in management of BBPEs.

Self-contamination with use of personal protective equipment: Concept analysis using Rodgers’ evolutionary method

Background: Although self-contamination has been identified through relevant studies on the safe utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE) by healthcare personnel and the prevention of healthcare-associated infection transmission, there is a lack of in-depth understanding of self-contamination. This study aimed to review previous research on self-contamination and clarify the concept. By understanding this concept, healthcare personnel can improve their conscientiousness regarding self-contamination and gain a foundation for the requisite interventions to reduce self-contamination in healthcare settings. Method: MeSH terms such as “Health Personnel,” “Students, Health Occupations,” and keywords related to PPE combined with “contaminat*” and “self-contamination” to retrieve literature in OVID, EMBASE, Cochrane, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases without time limits through December 2023 (Figure 1). The concept of self-contamination’s antecedents, attributes, and consequences were explained based on Rodgers’ evolutionary Results: After eliminating duplicates from the 2,195 studies that were initially searched, the authors reviewed the articles and determined eligibility independently. A total of 25 articles, published between 2006 and 2023, were included and analyzed. Antecedents to self-contamination were classified into three groups for each component (Figure 2). First, PPE factors included 1) types of PPE and/or ensemble choices, and 2) problems with PPE designs and/or their functions. Second, user factors involved 1) mistakes (errors of intent), 2) violations (deviations from recommendations), and 3) slips (natural flaws in humans). Third, organizational factors covered 1) unstandardized PPE protocol, 2) suboptimal and inconsistent PPE training, and 3) inadequate clinical environment. In total, five major concept attributes were the conveyance of organisms, unintentional behavior, preventable action, incidental contact, and difficulty discerning. Consequences were categorized into: 1) raising concerns about occupationally acquired infections, and 2) the potential transmission of the infection to the environment or other people (cross-contamination). Conclusion: While studies have raised questions about whether self-contamination causes infection, self-contamination was obvious among healthcare personnel when dealing with PPE. Considering the wide range of causes and potential results of self-contamination, multifaceted interventions, including improvement of the PPE design, tailoring protocols, and training for specific ensembles, should be implemented over an extended time period with suitable intervals to optimize interventions’ effectiveness.

The Relationship Between Attitude, Belief, Experience, and Knowledge of Iranian Nurses Toward the Use of Personal Protective Equipment: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Utilizing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is pivotal in averting infection transmission to both patients and nurses. The attitude of nurses is a critical determinant in their compliance with PPE usage. This study seeks to explore the correlation between the attitudes of Iranian nurses and their beliefs, experiences, and knowledge concerning the application of PPE. In this cross-sectional study, 303 nurses employed in hospitals affiliated with Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences (Iran) were chosen using a quota sampling technique. Between April and June 2022, they completed self-administered questionnaires, which consisted of a Demographic Information form and a four-part questionnaire on "Attitude, Belief, Experience, Knowledge" concerning the utilization of PPE. Data were analyzed utilizing descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The multiple linear regression model was applied to investigate the relationship between attitude scores and various examined variables. The findings indicated that most participants held bachelor's degrees (93.07%), and their attitude scores toward using PPE exceeded 3.25 out of 6 for all 12 questions. Female gender, increased work experience, and higher organizational positions exhibited positive and significant associations with a favorable attitude toward PPE utilization. Conversely, the absence of training related to PPE, a lack of belief in infection control, and limited knowledge displayed negative correlations. Nurses have an ethical obligation to adhere to infection control guidelines, including consistently utilizing PPE, regardless of the level of infection risk or the visibility of the infection. Continuous training and regular monitoring of nurses in this context are indispensable.

Containment of a KPC-CRE Outbreak Associated with Premise Plumbing in a Long-Term Care Facility— Minnesota, 2022-2023

Background: On March 23, 2022, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) was notified of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)-producing Klebsiella oxytoca isolated from a resident’s urine in long-term care facility A (LTCF-A). Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) are reportable statewide with required isolate submission to MDH Public Health Laboratory (MDH-PHL), where carbapenemase production and mechanism identification is confirmed. Methods: MDH partnered with LTCF-A on a containment response, including infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, KPC-CRE education, and colonization screening. Rectal swabs were screened for carbapenemase genes by real-time PCR (Cepheid Xpert Carba-R), with positive specimens undergoing culture, isolation, and whole genome sequencing (WGS). MDH-PHL conducted WGS including multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis to describe genetic relationships among isolates. When screening indicated a potential environmental source, due to species diversity and ongoing resident transmission, an environmental screening plan was developed including collection of premise plumbing samples from room faucets, aerators, sinks, toilets, and shared shower drains. Results: KPC-CRE was detected in 23 residents (urine, n=2; rectal swab, n=21) during March 2022–November 2023. 21 isolates comprising 10 Enterobacterales species were cultured from KPC-positive screening specimens. SNP analysis performed on bacteria of the same species demonstrated 5 distinct clusters of relatedness comprising 2-3 residents per cluster (Cluster 1: Klebsiella oxytoca, n=3; Cluster 2: Klebsiella oxytoca, n=3; Cluster 3: Escherichia coli, n=2; Cluster 4: Klebsiella pneumoniae, n=2; Cluster 5: Raoultella planticola, n=2). 7 KPC-positive resident specimens did not yield a culturable organism. KPC-CRE was detected throughout the premise plumbing including 8 of 9 shared shower room drains and 6 of 75 resident room sink drains. WGS and SNP analysis suggest relatedness among resident and environmental KPC-CRE isolates. Gaps in IPC measures including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), environmental cleaning and disinfection, and sink hygiene practices were observed during onsite assessments. Use of an EPA-registered biofilm disinfectant in facility drains and repeated environmental sampling has demonstrated a decrease in KPC-harboring bacteria within the premise plumbing, but not complete elimination. Conclusion: Containing the spread of KPC-CRE within LTCF-A has been challenging due to environmental reservoirs of KPC-CRE along with insufficient implementation of IPC practices. Continued colonization screening has been necessary to detect newly colonized residents and reinforce efforts to increase IPC compliance. Strict implementation and adherence to IPC measures, including those that minimize the spread of KPC-CRE from facility premise plumbing, are needed to fully halt KPC-CRE transmission within LTCF-A.