Occupational Cancer –
Transcription
Occupational Cancer –
13th EWHN Conference Fighting for safe and healthy work and a safe and healthy world Bologna, 4 – 6 October 2013 Occupational Cancer – Well-known problems and new challenges (in memory of Simon Pickvance 1949 – 2012) Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Bremen, Germany kontakt@wolfgang-hien.de Henning Wriedt Beratungs- und Informationsstelle Arbeit & Gesundheit Hamburg, Germany wriedt@arbeitundgesundheit.de Overview Outline of the workshop Part A Overview of relevant carcinogens at the workplace Basic information on cancer and how it is studied Part B Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level Part C Solutions and models of good practice in different industries Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 2 Outline of the workshop Part I: Introduction of participants – your interests, questions, and expectations Outline of the workshop: focus and omissions Focus on chemicals and particulates Overview of relevant carcinogens at the workplace Basic information on cancer Part II: Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Legal framework conditions in Europe, regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level Part III: Solutions and models of good practice in different industries Differences in cultural traditions in different countries / potential for mutual support Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 3 Outline of the workshop Your questions and expectations see flipchart Omitted issues approaches for identifying as yet unknown carcinogens or activities Focus on chemicals and particulates omission of other carcinogens and activities relevant at the workplace, such as radioactive material, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation radon emissions from the ground tobacco smoke (passive smoking) shift work Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 4 Outline of the workshop International context & additional material Occupational Cancer/Zero Cancer is a global union campaign to prevent occupational cancer. More information, campaign material, and resources at: www.imfmetal.org/cancer Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 5 Overview of relevant carcinogens at the workplace The burden of work-related cancers in european countries and new challenges – the example breast cancer Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 6 The most important carcinogenic substances in the present world of work Asbestos Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) for example: mineral oils for example: diesel engine exhaust for example: passive smoking Silica dust, crystalline Chromium (VI) and nickel compounds, particularly in welding fumes October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 7 Classification of Diesel engine emissions (DEE), 2012: NOx Damage to the alveolae PAH, BaP partial migration to the blood circulatory system nitro-aromatics aldehydes etc. Pollutants are adsorbed to soot particles (and soot particles themselves contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) The smaller a particle, the greater its specific surface area and, at the same time, the deeper its penetration into the lungs October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 8 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 9 The most important occupational activities with carcinogenic potential Occupational exposures as a painter (IARC: 1) Occupational exposures during iron and steel founding (IARC: 1) Occupational exposures in the rubber manufacturing industry (IARC: 1) Occupational exposures to oxidized bitumen and its emissions during roofing (IARC: 2A) Night shift work (females) (IARC: 2A) Occupational exposures as a hairdresser (?) October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 10 pigments binders, resins solvents additives biocides nanoparticles (…) et al. 2012 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 11 SiO2 CH2O R(NCO)2 PAK Cd, Pb, Co, Ni et al. 2012 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 12 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 13 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 14 Three remarks: The number of workplaces with carcinogenic substances is systematically underestimated (Rushton takes only IARC group 1 carcinogens into consideration). Exposure to carcinogens at the workplace appears mostly as normal dust, normal contamination and normal dirt. Very bad workplaces can be found mainly in small and medium companies, in subcontractors of large companies, and in the construction industry. October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 15 Additional remark: We use the terms „work-related cancer“ and „occupational cancer“ synonymously. They are not identical with the much smaller fraction of recognized occupational cancers (in German: „Berufskrankheit“). work-related cancer (occ. cancer) recognized occ. cancer The work-attributable part of all cancers The burden of work-related cancers in European countries – a new approach by Lesley Rushton et al. (2012)* attributable fractions: all cancer sites lung cancer (male) 5,7 % 21,1 % lung (female) 5,3 % bladder (male) 7,1 % breast (female) 4,6 % * BJC (2012), 107, S3-S7 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 17 Cancer incidence in Europe – some examples Germany all sites work-related 470,000 26,800 lung (male) work-related 34,000 7,140 breast (female) work-related 74,000 3,400 October 2013 (per year) © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 18 United Kingdom* all sites work-related 343,000 18,000 lung (male) work-related 22,400 4,600 breast (female) work-related 46,500 2,000 (per year) * Rushton et al. 2012 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 19 Italy* all sites work-related 340,000 18,000 lung (male) work-related 19,000 4,000 breast (female) work-related 47,000 2,000 (per year) * GLOBOCAN 2008 (www-dep.iarc.fr) October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 20 An startling new discussion: work-related breast cancer Ethylene oxide (1) Formaldehyde (1) Cyclophosphamide (1) nurses in hospitals X-Ray (1) Night work (1) Epichlorohydrine (2A) female workers in plastics Bisphenol A (2A) processing, e.g. in the Acrylonitrile (2B) automotive industry Di(2-ethylhexyl)phtalate (2B) October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 21 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 22 Some results of the Canadian breast cancer study (Brophy et al. 2012) Occupational activity Relative Risk Plastics processing in the automotive industry - all females - premenopausal 2.68 4.76 Food canning - all females - premenopausal 2.35 5.70 statistically significant Working in bars, gambling - all females - premenopausal October 2013 2.28 not sign. © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 23 Further open questions: Combined effects of several carcinogens simultaneously? Chemical interactions of several agents outside human body? Chemical interactions of agents in the human organism? Combined effects of several carcinogens in the course of a life? Additional or potentiating effects (tumour promotion)? Tumour promoting effects of chronic stress at the workplace? October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 24 Basic information on cancer What is cancer, how is it studied and who decides (here: IARC) that a substance or an other factor is carcinogenic? Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 25 What is cancer and how is it studied? Cancer is a consequence of a multi-stage process in our organism The initial stage is a mutation in the genetic material of our cells The main mutation factor is a chemical attack Other factors include viruses and radiation October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 26 Source: Kamp 2008 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 27 Computer modelled image of benzo[a]pyrene-adduct with two DNAbases Many substances can build DNAadducts (natural and synthetic) Many substances can stimulate (promote) mutated cells Source: Weston/Harris 2000 (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NB K20839) October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 28 The multi-stage model of cancer development initiation promotion mutation reparase in oncoinhibition gens or by protonickel, oncogens cadmium, by cobalt, chemicals or other or agents radiation October 2013 epigenetics: induction of growth of mutated cells by hormones or endocrine disruptors progression proliferation of cancer cells caused by damage to the immune system by dioxins or other agents © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 29 Majority of cancer causing agents have no threshold level below which there is no biological effect For majority of cancer causing agents there is a doseeffect-relation starting from the point of origin effect (=risk) dose (=exposure) October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 30 Some substances, e.g. dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls, and endocrine disruptors (xenoestrogens) act as tumour promoters. They selectively amplify cells with a mutation in the genetic material, and they strengthen the carcinogenic effect of genotoxic agents. effect with promotor effect without promotor October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 31 Estrogens, xenoestrogens and other endocrine disruptors stimulate cancer cell growth in female tissue, especially in breast tissue. One example is Bisphenol A, a component of epoxy resins, polyester resins, and many other plastics. Source: http://www.unc.edu/courses/2005spring/envr/132/001/Carcinogenesis.pdf October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 32 Aetiology of cancer: a multifactorial causation genetic factors social environment chemical and physical environment stress and strain socioeconomic status human being nutrition / tobacco and alcohol housing working conditions At least 5 % of all cancers are occupational cancers October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 33 Epidemiology = the study of the patterns, causes and effects of diseases in defined populations with a result as relative risk (RR) study population incidence or deaths? Observed = RR reference population incidence or deaths ? Expected example: RR = 2 = the disease occurs in the study group twice as often as in the reference group note: RR = 2 => every second case in the special group is preventable; the attributable fraction (AF) in this group is 50 % RR = 3 => 2 of 3 cases preventable; AF = 66 % October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 34 • Epidemiology is not a wholly exact science – epidemiology is embedded in a social environment of living • Epidemiology is, like every science, influenced by different economic and political interests • Epidemiology is based on many estimations and approaches, for example that of exposition at the workplace • Epidemiological results are probability statements, which are statistical statements about a particular population • Epidemiological data can be transformed into estimations on attributable fractions of occupational cancer in the whole population October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 35 The debate on occupational cancer has a long history. Samuel S. Epstein, M.D. and professor emeritus of Environmental and Occupational Medicine at the University of Illinois School of Public Health, and Chairman of the Cancer Prevention Coalition, in 1978 published his book “The Politics of Cancer”, in which he accused the chemical industry of avoiding and suppressing relevant scientific findings on occupational cancer. October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 36 Who decides that a substance or a particular exposure is carcinogenic? IARC = International Agency of Research on Cancer in Lyon (an institute of the Word Health Organisation) EU = special committees or groups (Joint Research Centre) of the European Commission in Brussels National Governments = for example, in Germany: classified by the „Ausschuss für Gefahrstoffe“ October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 37 Since 1971, IARC working groups (scientific experts, from many different countries, who specialize in this particular area) have evaluated empirical data from all over the world on more than 900 physical, chemical and biological agents. More than 400 substances or factors have been classified as certain, probable or possible carcinogens in humans. October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 38 Categories of IARC evaluation Carcinogenicity in humans: criteria are, amongst others, validity of the study, temporal sequence, dose-effect-relationship Carcinogenicity in experimental animals: criteria are, amongst others, two or more different species, two or more research labs Sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity: … a causal relationship has been established between exposure to the agent and cancer … Limited evidence of carcinogenicity: … a positive association has been observed between exposure to the agent and cancer, but … Inadequate evidence of carcinogenicity: … studies are of insufficient quality … or no data (on carcinogenicity) are available … Evidence suggesting lack of carcinogenicity: … not showing a positive association between exposure to the agent and any studied cancer October 2013 … © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Folie 39 Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie IARC classifications Group 1: The agent is carcinogenic to humans. This category is used when there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans. Exceptionally, an agent may be placed in this category when evidence of carcinogenicity in humans is less than sufficient but there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals and strong evidence in exposed humans that the agent acts through a relevant mechanism of carcinogenicity. (…) Group 2A: The agent is probably carcinogenic to humans. This category is used when there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals. In some cases, an agent may be classified in this category when there is inadequate evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals and strong evidence that the carcinogenesis is mediated by a mechanism that also operates October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien in humans. (…) Folie 40 Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Group 2B: The agent is possibly carcinogenic to humans. This category is used for agents for which there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and less than sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals. … (or) inadequate evidence of carcinogenicity in humans but sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals. (…) Group 3: The agent is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. This category is used most commonly for agents for which the evidence of carcinogenicity is inadequate in humans and inadequate or limited in experimental animals. (…) Group 4: The agent is probably not carcinogenic to humans. This category is used for agents for which there is evidence suggesting lack of carcinogenicity in humans and in experimental (…) © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Octoberanimals. 2013 Folie 41 Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Synopsis of the different classifications of IARC, UN, EU, Germany (MAK, AGS), and Austria (A) IARC UN/GHS* (EU new) EU (old) MAK AGS A 1 1A K1 1 K1 A1, C 2A 1B K2 2 K2 A2 2B 2 K3 3B K3 B 3 3A, 4, 5 4 * Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 42 Overview Outline of the workshop Overview of relevant carcinogens at the workplace Basic information on cancer and how it is studied Part B Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level Part C Solutions and models of good practice in different industries Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 43 Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Scientific knowledge vs. different regulatory treatment under different jurisdictions – three striking examples (1) Diesel engine emissions (DEE) scientific knowledge: IARC: carcinogenic to humans (group 1) German MAK Commission: carcinogenic to animals, to be considered as carcinogenic to humans (group 2) regulatory situation: EU (classification of substances): not classified – not on the market, only process-generated EU (OSH legislation): not yet included in Annex I of Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (CMD), but inclusion suggested Germany (OSH legislation): carcinogenic to animals (group 1B), identical obligations as for other carcinogens of groups 1A/1B What is the regulatory situation on DEE in your country? Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 44 Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Scientific knowledge vs. different regulatory treatment under different jurisdictions – three striking examples (2) Crystalline silica dust (quartz dust) scientific knowledge: IARC: carcinogenic to humans (group 1) German MAK Commission: carcinogenic to humans (group 1) regulatory situation: EU (classification of substances): not classified – not on the market, only process-generated EU (OSH legislation): not yet included in Annex I of Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (CMD); inclusion suggested by trade unions, opposed by industry Germany (OSH legislation): carcinogenic to humans (group 1A), identical obligations as for other carcinogens of groups 1A/1B What is the regulatory situation on crystalline silica in your country? Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 45 Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Scientific knowledge vs. different regulatory treatment under different jurisdictions – three striking examples (3) Hardwood dust (beech, oak) scientific knowledge: IARC: carcinogenic to humans (group 1) German MAK Commission: carcinogenic to humans (group 1) regulatory situation: EU (classification of substances): not classified – not on the market, only process-generated EU (OSH legislation): included in Annex I of Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (CMD) – therefore obligatory for all EU Member States to impose identical obligations as for other carcinogens of groups 1A/1B Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 46 Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Scientific knowledge vs. different regulatory treatment under different jurisdictions – legal background Legal definition of a “carcinogen” at EU level for substances which are marketed via CLP-Regulation – relevant for all fields of law for process-generated substances via Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (CMD) – relevant for OSH regulation only Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 47 Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Scientific knowledge vs. different regulatory treatment under different jurisdictions – legal background Legal definition of a “carcinogen” in the CLP-Regulation: Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 48 Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Scientific knowledge vs. different regulatory treatment under different jurisdictions – legal background Legal definition of a “carcinogen” in the CMD: Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 49 Differences between scientific knowledge and legislation Scientific knowledge vs. different regulatory treatment under different jurisdictions – legal background … and what is the content of Annex I ? Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 50 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Legal situation Carcinogens and Mutagens Directive (CMD: Dir. 2004/37/EC) defines minimum standards which are obligatory for all EU Member States Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 51 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Risk assessment Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 52 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Replacement (substitution) of a carcinogen is preferable Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 53 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Use of closed system: where the replacement of a carcinogen is not technically possible, it should be manufactured and used in a closed system, in so far as is technically possible Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 54 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Minimization of exposure: where neither the replacement of a carcinogen nor its manufacture and use in a closed system is technically possible, the employer shall ensure that the level of exposure is reduced to as low a level as is technically possible Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 55 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Minimization of exposure – control measures (1): Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 56 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Minimization of exposure – control measures (2): Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 57 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Minimization of exposure – access restrictions: Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 58 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Information and training of workers Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 59 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Information and training of workers has to be renewed and repeated Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 60 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Information for workers Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 61 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations Record-keeping of exposure data Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 62 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Regulatory obligations … and limit values? Since 1990, limit values have been derived at EU level for only three substances: benzene, hardwood dust, vinyl chloride monomer Even after 20+ years of the CMD, limit values are a virtually non-existent tool at EU level Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 63 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Workplace realities The obligations set out in the CMD (which are minimum requirements) were transposed into national legislation by all EU Member States two decades ago. So what is the situation really like today in many workplaces all across Europe? Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 64 Legal framework conditions in Europe, main regulatory obligations, and workplace realities Workplace realities Compare the following obligations with your own experience: risk assessment, including determination of exposure substitution closed system extraction at source exposure minimization restriction of access to exposed work areas documentation of exposed workers record-keeping for at least 40 years Can you identify any deficits? What are the obstacles to remedying them? Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 65 Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level After more than 20 years of the CMD, progress seems to be limited In some EU Member States new approaches to add momentum to the CMD requirements Spain: Zero Cancer at Work Campaign initiated by Spanish trade unions (CCOO) in autumn 2011 Website: http://www.cancerceroeneltrabajo.ccoo.es more information in English can be found at: https://osha.europa.eu/en/seminars/worksho p-on-carcinogens-and-work-relatedcancer/speech-venues/session-1c-cancerprevention-action-plans-and-campaigns-toprevent-work-related-cancer/the-spanish-ccoocampaign-2018zero-cancer201d/presentationc.-narocki Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 66 Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level Some details of the Zero Cancer at Work Campaign: Goals • • • identify workplace carcinogens eliminate or reduce the use of carcinogens at workplaces create social awareness, giving visibility to occupational exposures & cancer cases Actions at workplaces – goals: • • • • • eliminate or substitute carcinogens better control measures adequate training adequate heath surveillance social security recognition and reporting Policy forwarding demands to central, regional, and local administrations: • enforcement • plans for occupational cancer prevention • tightening up existing legislation Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 67 Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level Obligations of the EU Carcinogens Directive Substitution (art. 4 (1)) Closed system (art. 5 (2)) Exposure minimization (art. 5 (3)) Substitution is the preferred approach but … … it has to be complemented by a strategy on exposure minimization for tasks with, and uses of, carcinogens during the period in which substitution is not yet feasible. Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 68 Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level New approaches in some EU Member States … on promotion of exposure reduction when substitution or closed system are not feasible The Netherlands: Since the mid-1990s introduction of risk-based exposure levels • • upper risk level (4 : 1,000): maximum allowed exposure level – starting point for (further) exposure reduction lower risk level (4 : 100,000): target level for exposure reduction Germany: Since 2007 introduction of risk-based exposure levels plus substance-independent tiered control scheme (a number of elements “borrowed” from the Dutch approach) Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 69 Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level Rationale behind risk-based concepts Shortcomings of previous concepts • minimization of exposure under the former concept based on technical-based exposure levels (TRK – “as low as technically possible”) did not work in practice: overall cap – yes further reduction below the TRK value – no • minimization progress at workplaces difficult to verify • technical-based exposure levels do not reflect differences in technical possibilities between different tasks or processes for the same carcinogen • minimization “to zero” impossible in reality Objectives of risk-based concepts • verifiable implementation of minimization requirement • assistance in carrying out minimization • priority for minimization of high risks Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 70 Approaches and (regulatory) concepts at national level We need to remember: For the majority of cancer causing agents there is a dose-effect-relationship starting from the point of origin Conclusion: The higher the exposure to a carcinogen at the workplace, the higher the resulting cancer risk effect (=risk) dose (=exposure) Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 71 The German risk-based approach for avoiding work-related cancers Exposure minimization is orientated to the health risk risk strength of the measures general ventilation Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt local exhaust ventilation 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 containment systems 72 The risk-based approach in a nutshell three bands (risks / control measures) – schematic view risk of contracting cancer high risk: most stringent measures upper risk limit medium risk: less stringent measures lower risk limit low risk: least stringent measures Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 73 The risk-based approach in a nutshell Intention behind the introduction of three bands (risk bands / bands of control measures) • Grading of control measures should help to make the minimization obligation dynamic: the higher the risk, the more urgent further exposure reduction Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 74 The risk-based approach in a nutshell Consequences (1) Written documentation of risk assessment has to be complemented by an action plan (modelled after Dutch example) mandatory for high and medium risks description of planned concrete measures for further exposure reduction: when, how, amount of expected reduction Action plan will create transparency both externally (enforcement agencies) and internally (works councils) – efficacy of this instrument will critically depend on the way it is actively used for monitoring the actual implementation of the measures described therein. Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 75 The risk-based approach in a nutshell Consequences (2) higher level of protection for selected carcinogens: carcinogen acrylonitrile benzene benzo(a)pyrene 1,3-butadiene refractory ceramic fibres hydrazine naphthalene N-nitrosamines trichloroethylene vinyl-2-pyrrolidone former TRK [µg/m³] tolerable concentration [µg/m³] 7,000 2,600 3,200 (1 ppm) 1,900 (0.6 ppm) 2/5 0.7 11,000 / 34,000 5,000 250,000 f/m³ 100,000 f/m³ 130 22 10 ppm 0.1 ppm (AGW) 1 / 2.5 0.7 50 ppm 11 ppm 500 50 (AGW) AGW: health-based OEL Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 76 The risk-based approach in a nutshell Consequences (3) minimization of metals particularly challenging: carcinogen former TRK [µg/m³] tolerable concentration [µg/m³] 100 8 cadmium 15 / 30 1.6 (respirable fraction) chromium VI 50 / 100 1 (?) cobalt 100 / 500 5 500 < 5 (?) (respirable fraction) arsenic nickel compounds Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 77 The Risk-based approach: Consequences and outlook Advantages of the approach limitation of individual cancer risk thresholds for other detrimental health upper risk level effects are also covered focus on minimization of high risks: the higher the risk, the more urgent further exposure reduction identification of uses with particularly high risks lower risk level guidance on selection and application of control measures provided, in particular on the use of respiratory protective equipment Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 78 Solutions and models of good practice in different industries What can be done to reduce the cancer risk at the workplace? What‘s the difference between good models and real practice? Wolfgang Hien Henning Wriedt 13th EWHN Conference Bologna, 4. – 6. Oct. 2013 79 Exposure-Risk-Relationships for some cancer causing agents Agent tolerance 4 x 10-3 acceptance* 4 x 10-4 4 x 10-5 Asbestos and Alu silicate fibers 100,000 F/m3 10,000 F/m3 1,000 F/m3 BaP 700 ng/m3 70 ng/m3 7 ng/m3 Benzene 0.6 ppm 60 ppb 6 ppb Chromate (as Cr-VI)** 1 µg/m3 100 ng/m3 10 ng/m3 NiO** 2 µg/m3 800 ng/m3 80 ng/m3 Trichloroethylene 11 ppm 6 ppm 0.6 ppm * The stricter value is intended from 2018 at the latest for more than 30 substances ** Values in discussion October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 80 Example: chromium-nickel welding (stainless steel welding) Cr (VI) in respirable particles “no go area” 2 µg/m3 0.2 µg/m3 0.02 µg/m3 improved exhaust ventilation October 2013 welding helmets with purified air supply © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 81 Welding helmet with powered air purifying October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 82 Welding helmet with fresh-air connection October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 83 Example, diesel engine exhaust: Several ways and technical measures to reduce exposure Particle filters (permanently installed) pluggable filters October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 84 Funnel and tubes for local exhaust ventilation Further measures: Reduce engine idling time. Start engines only when necessary, and turn them off whenever it’s practical. Exhaust is still being emitted whenever engines are idling. Reduce idling time! October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 85 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 86 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 87 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 88 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 89 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 90 October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 91 Example iron and steel founding – an exposure reduction programme in USA (Source: OSHA 2008) Problem: The forward leaning of the worker’s upper body caused the air to "roll" in front of the worker and confine some of the dust generated by the process into the vicinity of the breathing zone. Makeup air was pushed unrestricted into the plenum over the worker’s head. October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 92 Solution: October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 93 Some Conclusions: Work-related cancers are preventable But prevention is a matter of political will We need education of the workers We need employers with insight or remorse We need experts in our trade unions We need a broad discussion about tolerable and acceptable cancer risks October 2013 © Dr. Wolfgang Hien Forschungsbüro für Arbeit, Gesundheit und Biographie Folie 94