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Safety in Extreme Environments
Number of Followers: 0  Hybrid journal (It can contain Open Access articles)ISSN (Print) 2524-8170 - ISSN (Online) 2524-8189 Published by Springer-Verlag  [2468 journals]
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- Improvement of valve safety and reliability through the use of valve
locking devices-
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Abstract: Abstract A valve lock, also known as a valve lock out device, is a device used to close off pressured valves, ensuring that machinery that uses valves remains switched off during maintenance. The paper discusses a variety of valve locking devices, ranging in security levels, including visual seals, car seals or wire locks, pad or chain locks, single locks, and interlocks. As part of the process and safety evaluations, locking devices should be selected, and the results should be reflected in piping and instrument diagrams (P&IDs) for the valves. The primary objective of this study is to incorporate locking devices into industrial valves in the oil and gas industry so that they will be safer and more reliable. Using valve locking prevents an unauthorized person from accidentally operating the valve, thus enhancing its safety and reliability during operation. For this purpose, Johan Castberg, a recent project on the Norwegian continental shelf, was chosen. From offshore project experience, it has been established that valve interlocks have been selected and applied primarily to valves. Valve locking devices have been selected for analysis because they can greatly enhance the safety and reliability of valves during operation. There were eight types of interlocks identified for isolation valves near PSVs, pumps, control valves, heat exchangers, and rupture disks. Most of the valves that are locked are located near pressure safety valves. There are fewer interlocks in isolation valves for control valves and rupture devices compared to other arrangements. A number of recommendations are made for future studies, including the investigation of electrical key cabinets and the study of material selection and corrosion for locking mechanisms. The electrical key cabinets are very important valve locking systems since they are intelligent options which enable operators to trace the keys in the plant and to avoid forgetting to exchange them when necessary. In order to avoid damage to the keys due to corrosion, material selection and corrosion control are important aspects.
PubDate: 2023-11-23
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- A case study demonstrating the use of Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA)
in order to prevent fire and explosion in storage tanks due to overfilling
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Abstract: Abstract Overfilling occurs when a product inside a tank reaches a critical level. Having an overfilled tank can result in adverse consequences, including fires and explosions, which are harmful to the environment, pose a threat to human life, and are financially costly due to the loss of assets (storage tanks) and oil produced and stored. Various safety techniques are employed by safety engineers in order to assess the potential hazards and risks associated with work environments, such as overfilling. Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) is one of these risk assessment techniques. In this study, several layers of protection are introduced to prevent the overfilling of tanks and to minimize their negative consequences. The purpose of this study is to develop a detailed method for LOPA implementation customized for storage tank overfilling. In general, the results indicate that adding each layer of protection can reduce the probability of failure and the risk associated with overfilling.
PubDate: 2023-11-14
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- Assessment of occupational safety and health hazards among borehole
drilling employees in harare district, Zimbabwe-
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Abstract: Abstract The paper titled “Assessment of Occupational Safety and Health Hazards among Borehole Drilling Employees in Harare District, Zimbabwe” aims to investigate and evaluate the occupational safety and health hazards faced by employees involved in borehole drilling activities in the Harare District of Zimbabwe. The study focuses on identifying the potential risks and hazards associated with this occupation, as well as assessing the existing safety measures and practices implemented by employers. The research methodology employed for this study includes a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches. The findings revealed that borehole drilling employees in Harare District are exposed to various occupational hazards, including physical hazards, chemical hazards, psychosocial hazards, as well as ergonomic hazards. Furthermore, the study identified several risk factors contributing to these hazards, such as operating poorly serviced machines, risk taking behaviour under pressure, lifting heavy equipment and inadequate and improper wearing of PPE/C. Measures used to manage hazards include training on standard work procedures, use of PPE/C, safety inspection, risk assessment, toolbox talks and accident reporting. However, the research highlighted the need for improved safety measures, training programs, and regulatory enforcement to mitigate hazards and ensure the well-being of borehole drilling employees in Harare district.
PubDate: 2023-10-09
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- A comprehensive review of the Swiss cheese model in risk management
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Abstract: Abstract The SCM, developed by James Reason in the 1990s, is a widely recognized and influential model used to understand and manage complex systems and their associated risks. The aim of this review paper is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Swiss Cheese Model (SCM) in the context of risk management. To conduct this review, an extensive literature search was performed using reputable academic databases, including PubMed, African Journals Online, Science Direct, Scopus, Springer, Google Scholar, and Sage Publications. The search included keywords such as SCM; Risk Management; Error Management and Risk Assessment. English journals published up to 2023 were considered for inclusion in this review. The review reveals that the SCM has been widely adopted across various industries, including healthcare, aviation, nuclear power, and transportation. Numerous studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in identifying potential risks, understanding their underlying causes, and implementing preventive measures. The model's core concept of multiple layers of defenses, represented by slices of cheese with holes (potential weaknesses), has proven valuable in visualizing how errors or failures can occur within complex systems. The review highlights the importance of organizational culture and leadership in successfully implementing the SCM. Results show that a positive safety culture, open communication channels, and strong leadership support are crucial for creating an environment where the SCM can be effectively utilized. This comprehensive review affirms the significance of the SCM as a valuable tool in risk management. However, recommendations shows that future research should focus on further refining the model's application in specific domains and exploring the importance of integrating it with other risk management frameworks.
PubDate: 2023-10-05
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- A process-based model for effective and sustainable work safety analysis
in zimbabwe: A review-
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Abstract: Abstract Ensuring work safety is a critical aspect of any organization's operations, as it directly impacts the well-being and productivity of employees. In Zimbabwe, like many other developing countries, work safety analysis is often overlooked or inadequately addressed, leading to a high number of workplace accidents and injuries. This paper proposes a process-based model for effective and sustainable work safety analysis in Zimbabwe, aiming to provide organizations with a systematic approach to identify and mitigate potential hazards. The proposed model incorporates various stages that organizations can follow to conduct work safety analysis comprehensively. These stages include hazard identification, risk assessment, control measures implementation, monitoring and evaluation, and continuous improvement. The model emphasizes on work environment, work design, worker, workplace relationships and work safety analysis in reducing accidents to As Low As Reasonable Possible (ALARP). The model is based on a systematic literature review of existing research on work safety in Zimbabwe and other countries. The review identified key factors that contribute to workplace accidents and fatalities, including lack of training, inadequate personal protective equipment, and poor communication. The proposed model addresses these factors through a series of steps, including stakeholder identification, risk assessment, and performance measurement. The model also emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and learning, as well as the need for regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure its effectiveness. The review concludes by highlighting the potential benefits of the proposed model for improving work safety in Zimbabwe and other developing countries.
PubDate: 2023-09-30
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- Towards a safety climate framework to improve communication and worker
involvement in occupational accident prevention at construction sites in
Zimbabwe-
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Abstract: Abstract The research analysed factors that contribute to poor communication and low worker involvement in accident reduction at Hwange Thermal Power Station Expansion Project (HTPSEP) construction site. An analytical research design was employed in this research and data was collected using closed and open-ended questionnaires, interviews and direct-field observations. Data was analysed using Relative Importance Index method (RII), Microsoft Excel and content analysis. The findings from the research indicated that work pressure or work overload, language barriers, lack of training, culture, and fear of reporting accidents were the top five barriers leading to poor communication and worker participation in accident prevention. The provision of PPE, training, and visual translations were the most applied measures meant to address the problems faced in communication, and the participation of workers in accident prevention at HTPSEP. The RII results generated from the study indicated that the provision of PPE is the most effective measure used at HTPSEP to address problems in communication and participation in safety at work. However, the success of these measures was limited due to challenges such as a lack of commitment by top management, language barriers, and a rush to meet project deadlines. The research concluded that, if not addressed, the barriers can lead to problems such as occupational injuries, conflicts, and disputes. A safety climate framework to improve communication and worker involvement in accident prevention at construction sites was designed for possible implementation.
PubDate: 2023-09-29
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- Corrosion protection of Q235 steel in Pseudomonas aeruginosa-laden
seawater environment using high barrier PDMS nanocomposite coating-
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Abstract: Abstract Perfluorodecyltrichlorosilane (PFDS)-modified PDMS-ZnO hydrophobic coating and 2-ethylhexanoic acid (EHA)/PFDS-modified amphiphilic coating were fabricated. The effect of EHA on the barrier properties and corrosion protection effectiveness of PFDS-modified hydrophobic PDMS-ZnO coating was investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and molecular dynamics simulation techniques. The EIS results showed the amphiphilic coating exhibited higher barrier and corrosion protection properties than the hydrophobic coating. The observed EIS results were confirmed by results of the water contact angle measurement, SEM, AFM, EDS and FTIR. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulation results revealed the nature of interaction between the amphiphilic coating and the corrodent, as well as the interaction between hydrophobic coating and the corrodent. The results clearly indicate that amphiphilic coating was most favourable for hydrophilic interaction, whereas the hydrophobic coating was well-disposed to hydrophobic interaction. These agree with the experimental results.
PubDate: 2023-09-19
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- Overview of quality health safety and environmental management systems
implementation in Zimbabwe-
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Abstract: Abstract This review paper presents a comprehensive overview of the implementation of Quality Health Safety and Environmental (QHSE) Management Systems in Zimbabwe. This paper reviews the current state of quality health safety and environmental management systems (QHSE) in Zimbabwe. The review is based on a comprehensive literature review that was conducted to gain insight into the history, current state, and future trends of QHSE systems in Zimbabwe. Data was searched from various databases for example Google Scholar, Sage Publications, Springer, Science Direct, African Journals Online, Scopus and PubMed. The review examines the various legal and regulatory frameworks in place, as well as the role of industry players in the implementation of QHSE systems. The paper also provides an assessment of the challenges and opportunities in the implementation of QHSE systems, in order to identify solutions that will promote the growth and sustainability of QHSE systems in Zimbabwe. The findings of the review indicate that while there have been some improvements in the implementation of QHSE systems in Zimbabwe, there are still some areas that need to be addressed in order to ensure the effective and sustainable implementation of these systems. The paper also highlights the need for greater collaboration between private and public sector stakeholders in order to ensure the proper functioning of QHSE systems in Zimbabwe.
PubDate: 2023-09-18
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- An analysis of legislation and policies governing the working conditions
of sanitation workers in Zimbabwe-
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Abstract: Abstract Sanitation workers are at high risk of occupational and health hazards associated with exposure to faecal sludge as they clean public toilets, empty septic tanks, repair sewerage pipelines and operate wastewater treatment facilities. They can only be protected from these hazards through effective safety and health measures backed by sound institutional and legal frameworks. This study sought to analyse the existing institutional and legal frameworks, regulations and policies governing working conditions of sanitation workers in Zimbabwe and assess the adequacy of the frameworks in addressing the plight of sanitation workers in their day to day work. An inventory of the laws and policies in Zimbabwe was done through a desktop study. The identified laws and policies were analysed in terms of occupational health and safety provisions for sanitation workers as well as the enforcement systems. The laws and policies in Zimbabwe were benchmarked with world best practice and principles from world bodies governing occupational health and safety. It was found that the current legislation and policies on occupational health and safety are general to all employees. It was also found that there are statutory instruments specific to hazards associated with other sectors such as mining, agriculture and construction but nothing specific to sanitation workers. Therefore the current legislation and policies are too weak to protect the sanitation workers. It was recommended that the legislation and policies be reformed to take into account the plight of sanitation workers in order to provide better protection from occupational hazards.
PubDate: 2023-09-13
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- Reimagining construction safety: unveiling the impact of building
information modeling (BIM) implementation-
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Abstract: Abstract The construction industry encounters a multitude of safety challenges, leading to a significant incidence of workplace injuries and fatalities. Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been identified as a viable approach to enhance construction methodologies through the provision of a digital depiction of construction endeavors. Existing research has provided evidence regarding the potential influence of BIM on safety. However, there remains a dearth of comprehensive knowledge concerning the precise advantages and obstacles associated with integrating BIM into safety management protocols. The study aims to investigates the correlation between the adoption of BIM and the practices of safety management within the construction industry of Malaysia. The research employs a three-phase methodology, encompassing an extensive review of relevant scholarly literature, the collection of quantitative data through the administration of surveys and questionnaires, and the application of structural equation modelling. The methodology employed facilitates a thorough assessment of the effects of BIM on safety management practices within construction projects. The results of the study validate a notable and favorable correlation between the adoption of BIM and the management of safety. The research paper identifies several key factors that are crucial for the successful adoption of BIM. These factors encompass change management, leadership commitment, standardization, technology infrastructure, and training and education. Furthermore, this underscores the significance of conducting monitoring and evaluation activities, performing safety assessments, identifying hazards, and developing and implementing safety plans to improve safety protocols. The findings of this study offer significant contributions to the construction industry, policymakers, and researchers.
PubDate: 2023-08-29
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00086-4
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- Assessment of ergonomic risks among refuse collectors in municipalities of
Harare District, Zimbabwe-
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Abstract: Abstract The study was carried to give a comprehensive overview of different types of ergonomic risks among refuse collectors at Chitungwiza Municipality of Harare District. Descriptive cross-sectional design was used to collect data during the study because it applies both quantitative and qualitative techniques. During the study data was collected using observations, questionnaires and interviews as well as secondary data sources. Generally, 100% of the refuse collectors who participated as questionnaire respondents indicated that they are exposed to musculoskeletal disorders notably muscular strain, shoulder pain and back injuries. Poor lifting techniques, manual loading of waste, awkward postures and carrying of heavy loads were indicated as factors which expose refuse collectors to ergonomic risks at Chitungwiza Municipality in Harare. Causes of ergonomic risks raised by the respondents of the study causes the paper to put attention on measures used to manage risks at the municipalities. Safety training, medical examination and induction were some of the measures used to manage ergonomic risks raised by the refuse collectors. Based on the findings of this research paper, several recommendations were provided notably, continuous training and education, regular health monitoring, improvement of work organisation and collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
PubDate: 2023-08-28
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00085-5
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- Occupational stress among workers in the health service in Zimbabwe:
causes, consequences and interventions-
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Abstract: Abstract Occupational stress is a prevalent issue among workers in the health service sector in Zimbabwe. This review paper aims to explore the causes, consequences and potential interventions for occupational stress experienced by healthcare professionals in Zimbabwe. During the compilation of the review literature was wrangled from different databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus. The study provide an in-depth analysis of the factors contributing to occupational stress, including workload, lack of resources, organisational factors and personal characteristics. Additionally, the study examine the detrimental effects of occupational stress on the physical and mental well-being of healthcare workers, as well as its impact on job performance and patient care. Furthermore, various interventions and strategies that can be implemented to mitigate occupational stress and promote a healthier work environment for healthcare professionals.
PubDate: 2023-08-19
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00084-6
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- Pluvial flash flood-traffic interactions in current and future climates
for the City of Ottawa-
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Abstract: Abstract Flash flooding caused by short-duration high-intensity precipitation events is a major cause of weather-related traffic disruptions in summer, especially in urban areas with impermeable surfaces such as pavements and buildings. As the weather becomes warmer, the frequency of flash floods is expected to increase, which can further exacerbate traffic disruptions. This study investigates flash flood-traffic interactions for current and future climates in Ottawa, Canada, by integrating ultra-high-resolution (4 km) regional climate model (RCM) simulations with inundation modelling using PCSWMM and transport network modelling. This study considers flash floods associated with 100-year return levels of short-duration (1-h, 3-h, and 5-h) precipitation events, with projected changes estimated using two approaches based on the RCM simulation results and temperature scaling method. Quantitative validation of the RCM-simulated precipitation results and their spatial variability, against gridded and station observations, along with qualitative validation of the hydrodynamic model simulated flash flood depths, confirm the suitability of the models in analyzing flash flood-related traffic disruptions. The results show that the 100-year return levels of 1-h, 3-h, and 5-h precipitation events are projected to increase by 16–55% for the future 2081–2100 period compared to the 1991–2020 period, leading to increases in blocked roads and traffic disruptions in the 57–77% range and delays in the 28,000–38,000 cumulative hours range. By identifying road links susceptible to flash flood-related traffic delays, this study provides a practical framework for guiding the development of adaptation measures to increase resilience in the urban transportation network.
PubDate: 2023-07-28
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00077-5
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- Corrosion studies of 90Cu-10Ni alloy tubes in simulated sulfide-polluted
seawater under dynamic flow conditions-
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Abstract: Abstract A comprehensive corrosion study of two commercial 90Cu-10Ni alloy tubes, named Tube A and Tube B, in simulated sulfide-polluted seawater under dynamic flow conditions has been conducted to understand their service lives. Electrochemical techniques involving a rotating cylinder electrode were used to evaluate the effect of sulfide concentration on the corrosion behaviors of both tubes, while combined surface analytical techniques (SEM/EDS, XRD, and) were useful for the characterization of the corrosion product films on both tubes. Sulfide exhibited good corrosion inhibition abilities on both tubes under static flow condition (0 rpm). This is attributed to the spontaneous formation of protective film layers and the enrichment of the corrosion product films by the alloying elements. However, the inhibitive property gradually depleted with increasing flow speed due to the effect of hydrodynamic forces. Comparatively, due to the nature of the corrosion product films formed on the exposed surfaces of both tubes, Tube A demonstrated lower corrosion rates under static flow while Tube B exhibited lower corrosion rates at higher flow speeds. After 15 days exposure to the test system, the corrosion product films on both tubes were characterized to consist mainly of copper (I) sulfide (Cu2S), copper (II) sulfide (CuS), copper (I) oxide (Cu2O), nickel (II) hydroxide (Ni(OH)2), nickel (II) oxide (NiO), nickel (III) oxide (Ni2O3), and copper (ii) oxide (CuO). Furthermore, traces of copper (II) chloride (CuCl2), copper (II) hydroxide (Cu(OH)2), nickel (II) sulfide (NiS), iron (II) sulfide (FeS), and iron (I) sulfide (FeS2) were also characterized. The mechanism of their formation and effects on the corrosion processes were also discussed.
PubDate: 2023-07-27
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00081-9
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- A novel Schiff base of pyridine-2-amine derivative as an effective
inhibitor of the dissolution of N80 pipeline steel in 1 M HCl-
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Abstract: Abstract An investigation of the performance of recently synthesized pyridine-2-amine derivative namely, N-(5-methoxy-2-hydroxybenzylidene)pyridine-2-amine (N5MHP) as inhibitor of N80 steel corrosion in 1 M HCl environment was carried out using surface analysis, electrochemical impedance, polarization and weight loss method. Results obtained reveal that N5MHP performed well in protecting the steel surface, achieving an inhibition efficiency of 97.0% at 303 K with 1.0 mM concentration from weight loss method. Increasing temperature depreciated the corrosion inhibition efficiency of N5MHP but increase in concentration enhanced the protection performance of the inhibitor. Electrochemical tests results agreed with weight loss results. Langmuir isotherm was obeyed by N5MHP in its adsorption on the steel surface. Polarization studies revealed that N5MHP acted as mixed-type inhibitor. Surface morphology characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) displayed a more protected surface of the X60 steel in the presence of N5MHP in the acid media. Theoretical calculations were performed by employing Density Functional Theory (DFT).
PubDate: 2023-07-25
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00082-8
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- The impact of occupational safety and health programs on employee
productivity and organisational performance in Zimbabwe-
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Abstract: Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) programs are essential for ensuring the well-being of employees in the workplace. In Zimbabwe, where workplace accidents and injuries are prevalent, OSH programs have become increasingly important. The aim of this review is to examine the impact of OSH programs on employee productivity and organizational performance in Zimbabwe. Articles were searched from different databases notably PubMed, African Journals Online, Science Direct, Scopus, Springer, Google Scholar and Sage Publications. Key words such Occupational Safety and Health Programs, Employee Productivity and Organisational Performance and abstracts were used used to measure the relevance of the paper to the topic understudy. The paper analyzes various studies conducted on the subject and provides an overview of the current state of OSH programs in Zimbabwe. The review finds that OHS programs have a positive impact on employee productivity and organizational performance. The review posits that implementation of OSH programs in organizations reduce workplace accidents and injuries, which can lead to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism. The review indicates that OSH programs can improve employee morale and job satisfaction, leading to increased retention rates and improved organizational performance. However, the review also highlights some challenges faced by organisations in implementing effective OSH programs in Zimbabwe. These challenges include a lack of resources, inadequate training and lack of awareness among employees about the importance of OSH. The paper concludes by giving recommendations for organizations looking to implement effective OSH programs.
PubDate: 2023-07-24
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00083-7
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- Safety and health risks associated with illegal municipal solid waste
disposal in urban Zimbabwe. “A case of Masvingo City”-
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Abstract: Abstract Municipal solid waste management (MSWM) is a worldwide problem as most local authorities are unable to dispose MSW safely. The study sought to evaluate safety and health risks associated with illegal MSW disposal in Masvingo City. Descriptive cross-sectional design was employed in which quantitative and qualitative data were collected concurrently. Questionnaires with both close and open-ended questions, semi-structured interviews, observations and secondary data sources were used during data collection. The study population comprised participants from Masvingo City’s residential areas, Masvingo City Council employees and Environmental Management Agency (EMA) officials. A sample of 406 participants, comprising 354 residents from high-density, 16 residents from medium-density, 24 residents from low-density suburbs. Six interviewees were included during the study. Interviewees were selected purposively. Quantitative data was entered into Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet for analysis and content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. Results showed that Cholera, skin problems, injuries and malaria were the main health problems. Based on the findings of the study, it can be concluded that MSW disposal in Masvingo was a threat to safety and human health. The study recommends that Masvingo City council provide receptacles and collect waste frequently.
PubDate: 2023-07-22
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00080-w
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- Analysis and forecasting drought characterisation with using Markov chain
model-
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Abstract: Abstract Drought is one of the inseparable elements of climate fluctuation that causes a lot of damages every year. Considering the effects of drought on different parts of the environment, agriculture, natural resources, wildlife, etc., drought forecast can be useful for managing the crisis and reducing its damages. In this study, monthly drought was calculated based on the standard precipitation index (SPI) in several stations in the south of Iran during the years 1980–2020.Then, using the Markov chain, monthly drought was forecasted for the years 2020 to 2040. According to the results, most of the stations have normal, moderate and severe drought conditions. The transition probability matrix showed that in all stations, the probability of passing from a certain state to the same state and the probability of passing from wet to dry state is high. But the probability of transition from dry to wet is low. Also, the predictive results were measured at different stations with different levels of accuracy. In addition, the results showed that the highest probability of drought in the years 2020–2040 is related to normal, moderate and severe classes, and at the level of the studied area, from class one to seven, the 13.4, 26.81, 27,74, 37.11, 4.76, 2.88, and 0.70% of the predicted months drought will happen respectively.
PubDate: 2023-07-17
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00076-6
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- A holistic strategy development to reduce losses from road accidents in
Arabian Gulf Countries-
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Abstract: Abstract In the Gulf region, the issue of road accidents and traffic safety is prevalent, which demands prerequisite progress in the field of safety. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries had obtained high rates of severe Road Traffic Accidents (RTA) in relative to other high-income countries. Therefore, there is a need for more in-depth research to understand the factors and variables behind this safety issue. This study aimed to determine the parameters affecting injury levels in road accidents. However, reported accidents in Kuwait were not reported in enough details necessary to design the required statistical models for the purpose of this study. Consequently, a holistic strategy design was introduced consisting of two fundamental approaches. Firstly, this work aimed to improve the data accident reporting and collection process to acquire better plans that will reduce traffic road accidents. Secondly, an engineering approach based on infrastructural and modern technological solutions was proposed to mitigate the effect of the factors contributing to accidents injury severity levels. The infrastructural solution consisted of Sand Barrel Crash Cushions and pedestrian facilities enhancement. Such measures to increase pedestrian safety can be achieved through improving the design of the crossings such as raised crossings and roadway narrowing (Road Diet).
PubDate: 2023-07-17
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00079-3
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- Construction 3D-printing in reducing the incidence of long latency
respiratory diseases among construction workers in the UK-
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Abstract: Abstract Onsite construction workers are exposed to many hazards which affect their body. However, dust and silica dust inhalation are often overlooked, most likely because it takes years to identify the side effects. The damage inflicted to the lungs is often irreversible as it is often discovered when it is too late. The aim of this research is to address the problem of occupational respiratory diseases among construction workers and investigate the potential of construction 3D printing in reducing the incidence of some of these diseases. The research objectives were to: identify the causes of the most prevalent respiratory diseases in construction; investigate the strategies of minimising onsite dust/ silica dust exposure; investigate the benefits of 3D printing in the minimisation of onsite dust/ silica dust exposure; explore the barriers of 3D printing in the minimisation of onsite dust/ silica dust exposure and explore the strategies for wider adoption of construction 3D printing to minimise the incidence of long latency respiratory diseases among construction workers. To achieve these objectives, a literature review was conducted, an online survey was carried out and professionals and researchers in the 3D printing field were interviewed to obtain relevant information to understand the intricacies of the new technology and its impact from workers’ health perspectives.
PubDate: 2023-07-11
DOI: 10.1007/s42797-023-00078-4
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