A random, population-based sample of 5,528 Australian workers participated in the Australian Work Exposure Study (AWES). Workers answered questions about the tasks they completed and the controls used at work.
The issue
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of chemical compounds formed during the incomplete combustion of organic material.
The Australian Work Exposures Study (AWES) was a national survey conducted by the Western Australian Institute of Medical Research (WAIMR) in 2011–12 that investigated work-related exposures among Australian workers to 38 known or suspected carcinogens.
The Australian Work Exposures Study (AWES) was a national survey conducted by the Western Australian Institute of Medical Research (WAIMR) in 2011–12 that investigated work-related exposures among Australian workers to 38 known or suspected carcinogens.
The Australian Work Exposures Study (AWES) was a national survey conducted by the Western Australian Institute of Medical Research (WAIMR) in 2011–12 that investigated work-related exposures among Australian workers to 38 known or suspected carcinogens.
Several European studies have reported high levels of residual chemical levels in sealed shipping containers. The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service found similar results when testing containers in Australia.
Biomechanical demands such as repetitive hand or arm movements, lifting heavy loads or working in awkward postures contribute to the development or worsening of inflammatory or degenerative musculoskeletal disorders.
Biological hazards are organic substances that pose a threat to the health of humans and other living organisms. They include pathogenic micro-organisms, viruses (e.g. Hepatitis, HIV, avian flu, Q-fever), toxins, spores, fungi and bio-active substances.
While the use of asbestos has been banned in Australia since 2003, in the past there was widespread use of asbestos in buildings. Construction and maintenance workers may be more likely to be involved in work that can disturb asbestos.
This report provides a profile of the occupational and demographic characteristics of workers who reported dermal (or skin) exposure to chemicals at work, as well as the types of controls with which respondents reported they were provided in the workplace.