Chemical exposures in laboratories, ear-splitting noise from groundskeeping equipment, and off-gassing from the newly installed building materials in offices – our colleges and universities may contain numerous environmental hazards
FACS knows the difficult task and surmountable effort required to keep buildings and classrooms reasonably free from environmental contaminants and safe for occupants. Our mission is to highlight some of the hidden sources for exposure that may not have been considered. Identifying these risks allows stakeholders to take proactive measures towards a safer learning environment for all.
Laboratory Settings: Known and Hidden Hazards
Laboratories in higher education pose unique risks compared to those in K-12 settings. While high school science labs typically handle low-level hazards, college and university labs often deal with more dangerous substances, including chemicals used in complex synthesis experiments or preserved specimens and cadavers in anatomy labs.
A mistake or oversight in a laboratory setting can be fatal – as it was for a UCLA research assistant. That tragic event was caused by mishandling of a chemical compound (t-butyl lithium), that spontaneously ignited upon exposure to air, and led to investigation of university laboratory safety procedures nationwide.
Beyond the obvious dangers, hidden risks such as long-term exposure to chemicals (i.e., formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, and phenol) in anatomy laboratories involving use of preserved specimens are often overlooked. These chemicals are typically present in specimen preservation fluids and may present significant health hazards, including respiratory issues and cancer. Despite the known risks, poor ventilation and inadequate safety measures can increase exposure, leading to hazardous environments for faculty and students.
The key to mitigating these risks is awareness, preparation, and evaluation. Institutions should regularly review safety data sheets (SDS) for chemicals utilized, educate staff and students on the potential hazards, and ensure proper ventilation systems are in place. They should then validate those controls by performing exposure assessments. With these preventive measures, the likelihood of exposure can be greatly reduced.
Craft and Trade Shops: Woodworking Hazards
Craft and trade shops, particularly woodworking areas, are another common source of exposure to hazardous materials in higher education. The most apparent risk is from wood dust, which can be inhaled and lead to respiratory problems, including cancer. Also note that certain types of wood, like Western Red Cedar, have lower permissible exposure limits due to their added toxicity, making them even more hazardous.
Case studies reveal that while some schools have dust collection systems in place, they often fail to adequately control dust levels due to poor maintenance or improper usage. For instance, one assessment found that dust collection systems in a woodshop were insufficient because workers did not use them correctly or ignored essential maintenance, resulting in high levels of airborne particulates.
Having mechanical controls in place does not ensure control of exposures if they aren’t being used properly. Make sure control options are in place, that they operate properly, and that everyone, whether student or faculty members, using the equipment is aware of recommended options, that they follow directives.
Aside from dust, formaldehyde exposure is another hidden hazard when working with manufactured wood products like MDF (medium density fiberboard) or particleboard. These materials, treated with formaldehyde-based adhesives, release toxic fumes when cut or manipulated, potentially exposing students and faculty to harmful chemicals.
Be sure to audit, identify, categorize, and abate all potentially hazardous materials. This is an area where bravado is not only ineffective but often harmful.
Welding Hazards
Welding programs in higher education offer valuable skills training but also introduce significant health risks, primarily from welding fumes. Different types of welding, such as flux-cored arc welding and gas metal arc welding, produce varying amounts of fumes that contain harmful metals and gasses such hexavalent chromium, manganese, and carbon monoxide.
The severity of exposure depends not only on the type of welding and welding materials (e.g., stainless steel) but also on the environment, ventilation, and the welder’s technique. Even when local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems are in place, they may be positioned incorrectly or not maintained, leading to inadequate protection.
Proper positioning of fume extraction systems, regular maintenance, and training on the correct use of controls are essential in minimizing the exposure to welding fumes. Without these measures, welders are at risk for long-term health problems, including lung damage and cancer.
Welding Hazards
Auto shop programs are another common feature of higher education, but they too, come with a range of hidden hazards. Chemical exposures in these settings include solvents, engine exhaust, and, in older vehicles, asbestos from brake pads and clutches. These chemicals can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and, in the case of asbestos, severe diseases like mesothelioma.
One often overlooked risk is dermal exposure to chemicals like brake cleaners or solvents. Case studies highlight instances where instructors and students failed to use gloves when handling these products, increasing the likelihood of skin irritation and other health issues.
Prior exposure investigations performed by FACS have also identified elevated noise exposure levels (i.e., above OSHA permissible exposure limits) in auto shops.
Proper protective equipment, such as nitrile gloves, noise protection, adequate ventilation systems, and the switch to less toxic water-based cleaners can significantly reduce the risks associated with auto shop programs.
Office and Renovation Risks
Office buildings may seem like unlikely sources of exposure, but when renovations occur, new materials like carpeting, adhesives, and decorative walls can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde into the air. A case study involving a newly renovated office on campus found elevated levels of formaldehyde, which caused symptoms like itchy eyes, throat irritation, and headaches among staff.
This highlights the importance of thoroughly reviewing the materials installed during office renovations and ensuring that proper ventilation is in place during and after construction. Simple measures, like running the mechanical HVAC system 24/7 and isolating areas during renovation, can help to off-gas hazardous materials more quickly and reduce occupant exposure risks.
Groundskeeping and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
In addition to chemical exposures, noise is a significant health hazard for groundskeepers working on college campuses. Lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and other outdoor equipment often exceed 85 decibels, the OSHA action level for hearing conservation. Without proper hearing protection, groundskeepers are at a heightened risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
Colleges and universities should implement hearing conservation programs that include regular noise monitoring, audiometric testing, and the provision of appropriate hearing protection devices. Additionally, using newer, quieter equipment and limiting the duration of exposure to high-noise tasks can help mitigate the risks.
Lead in Drinking Water
Although not specific to higher education, another area of concern is lead in drinking water. Results of samples collected from schools prior to reopening following the COVID epidemic showed alarming levels of lead due to lead-containing plumbing components, exacerbated by the inactivity of the piping. All drinking water sources should be tested for safety.
In conclusion, hidden exposures within higher education environments often go unnoticed until health issues arise. Whether it’s a lab, craft shop, office setting, or outdoor groundskeeping setting, proactive measures are essential to protect students and staff from hazardous materials and unsafe conditions.
By taking measures such as maintaining proper engineering controls, ensuring the use of personal protective equipment, and conducting regular safety assessments, institutions can create safer spaces for everyone. Remember: awareness and education are the first steps in preventing these hidden dangers from compromising the health and safety of students and staff.
For additional info and case studies see the Hidden Exposures in Higher Education webinar.
Contact FACS by telephone: (888) 711-9998
Contact FACS online: Ask FACS