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Showing 2 results for Occupational Exposure
Study of occupational exposure to non-ionizing radiations and the effectiveness of personal protective equipment in common arc welding processes
Amir Aliabadi, Ghasem Hesam, Zahra Moradpoor,
Volume 2, Issue 4 (3-2015)
Abstract

Introduction: Welding is considered to be one of the main sources of occupational exposure to non ionizing radiations. The present study was conducted to examine the rate of occupational exposure to non-ionizing radiation in common welding processes.

Materials and Methods: In the present descriptive analytical study, occupational exposure to different types of non-ionizing radiations including electromagnetic fields with extremely low frequency and ultraviolet and infrared radiations were examined in five types of arc welding processes at the welding department of the technical and vocational training center of Malayer. Electric field intensities and magnetic field intensities were measured using the HOLADAY HI-3604 instrument and based on the ANSI/IEEE Std 644-1994 method. Ultraviolet and infrared radiation intensities were measured using Hagner-EC1 radiometer (made in Sweden).

Results: Electric field intensities and magnetic field intensities were lower than the exposure limits in the different types of welding processes examined. Nevertheless, the intensity of UV-B radiation exposure was higher than the exposure limits in the different types of welding processes examined, while UV-A radiation exposure was only higher than the exposure limits in arc welding. The results of measuring UV radiation intensities transmitted through protective goggles revealed the acceptable shade number of the lenses used. However, welders' clothing did not provide adequate protection. Moreover, the results showed that welders' infrared radiation exposure degree was much lower than the exposure limits.

Conclusion: The intensity of exposure to non-ionizing radiations was influenced by the type of welding process taken. Given the overexposure of welders to UV-B radiation in unshielded conditions, wearing clothes with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor of 50 is necessary for providing better protection.


Investigating occupational exposure levels and health effects associated with hand-borne vibration during work with vibrating equipment in furniture carpentry workshops
Mohsen Aliabadi, Ramin Rahmani, Maryam Farhadian, Seyed Ghavameddin Attari, Hadi Aeini,
Volume 13, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objectives: In the furniture industry, workers operating woodworking machinery are exposed to hand-arm vibration (HAV). The present study aimed to assess the occupational exposure levels and associated health effects of vibration transmitted to the hand during operation of vibrating equipment in furniture carpentry workshops.
Methods: This case-control study was conducted with 59 carpenters (case group) and 39 painters (control group) in Malayer city. Hand-arm vibration exposure was measured following ISO 5349. Symptoms related to hand-arm vibration were assessed via questionnaire. Vascular disorders were evaluated by hand temperature recovery test according to ISO 14835, sensory function was examined using the monofilament kit, grip strength of the hand and fingers, and dexterity were also measured for both groups. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.
Results: The 8-hour equivalent acceleration of hand-arm vibration among carpentry workers was 2.74 ± 0.85 m/s². The most frequently reported symptoms among carpenters were hand pain, tingling, and finger pruritus, while Raynaud’s phenomenon (finger blanching) was the least reported. Grip strength, finger strength, hand dexterity, and motor skills were significantly lower in the exposed group compared to controls (p < 0.05). Ten percent of carpenters exhibited decreased superficial tactile sensitivity. However, no significant difference was observed between the exposed and control groups regarding vascular impairments.
Conclusion: Chronic exposure to hand-arm vibration in furniture carpentry workshops, even at levels below the permissible limit, can lead to a range of sensory-neurological, vascular, and musculoskeletal symptoms in the hand and arm region and adversely affect motor function in these workers.

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