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2001

CIS 01-968 Regulation No.3880 of 16 July 2001 on conditions under which it is permitted to remove materials containing asbestos during the renovation and demolition of buildings and during the maintenance of buildings, installations and equipment [Slovenia]
Pravilnik o pogojih, pod katerimi se lahko pri rekonstrukciji ali odstranitvi objektov in pri vzdrževalnih delih na objektih, instalacijah ali napravah odstranjujejo materiali, ki vsebujejo azbest [in Slovenian]
These regulations provide for the safety of workers during the removal of asbestos from buildings and related activities.
Uradni list Republike Slovenije, 14 Sep. 2001, Year XI, No.72, p.7484-7489.
http://objave.uradni-list.si/bazeul/URED/2001/072/B/523880268.htm [in Slovenian]

CIS 01-967 Decree No.2001-840 of 13.9.2001 modifying Decrees No.96-97 and 96-98 concerning the exposure of workers to asbestos [France]
Décret n°2001-840 du 13.9.2001 modifiant [les] décrets n°96-97 ... et ... n°96-98 du 7.2.1996 relatifs à l'exposition à l'amiante [France] [in French]
Modification of two 1996 Decrees concerning the exposure of workers to asbestos in existing buildings and to asbestos dust in various activities (see CIS 96-404). In annex: building parts needing control during the identification of asbestos hazards.
Journal officiel de la République française, 18 Sep. 2001, Year 133, No.216, p.14799-14801.
http://www.travail.gouv.fr/publications/picts/bo/05102001/A0180006.htm [in French]

CIS 01-963 Regulation of 23 April 2001 on the protection of workers against the risk of exposure to asbestos at work [Slovenia]
Pravilnik o varovanju delavcev pred tveganji zaradi izpostavljenosti azbestu pri delu [in Slovenian]
This Regulation defines the obligations of employers regarding the protection of workers likely to be exposed to asbestos dust or dust from asbestos-containing materials in the workplace.
Uradni list Republike Slovenije, 5 May 2001, Vol.11, No.33, p.3700-3705. Illus.
http://www.sigov.si/mddsz/uvzd/predpisi/uveljav/azbest/azbest.htm [in Slovenian]

CIS 01-1014
Health and Safety Executive
Asbestos essentials - Task manual
This companion manual to the guidance booklet "Introduction to asbestos essentials" (see CIS 01-1013) offers guidance for the use of eight specific pieces of equipment and methods, as well as for 25 different work tasks. The guidance sheets describe how the work should be carried out, what equipment to use, and how to use it. They highlight where asbestos is most likely to be found and how to ensure personal protection. It is aimed at persons involved in building maintenance, repair or refurbishment, as well as at safety and health representatives.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Apr. 2001. vi, 76p. Illus. Price: GBP 8.50.

CIS 01-1013
Health and Safety Executive
Introduction to asbestos essentials
High exposures to asbestos until the 1970s are estimated to be responsible for 2000-3000 deaths per year in the United Kingdom. To ensure that high levels of exposure do not occur during work on asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), a rigorous regulatory licensing scheme has been introduced. This guidance is intended for work with ACMs that does not fall under the licensing regulations, and is aimed at all persons controlling or carrying out maintenance work with ACMs. Contents include: introduction and definitions; where asbestos is likely to be encountered; legal aspects; managing the risk from work with asbestos; precautions for emergency services; general considerations of safe work. Guidance for specific equipment, methods and tasks is provided in a companion manual (see CIS 01-1014).
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Apr. 2001. viii, 80p. Illus. 21 ref. Price: GBP 12.50.

CIS 01-832 Lee P.N.
Relation between exposure to asbestos and smoking jointly and the risk of lung cancer
To review evidence of the relationship between the combined effect of exposure to asbestos and smoking on the risk of lung cancer, 23 studies epidemiological studies were analysed, comparing the risk of lung cancer in subjects unexposed to asbestos or smoking, exposed to asbestos only, to smoking only, or to both. Eight studies provided insufficient data. Asbestos exposure was associated with a significantly increased risk in non-smokers in six of the remaining studies and with a moderate increase in a further six. In two of the three studies that found no increase, asbestos exposure was insufficient to increase risks in smokers. In 30 of 31 data sets analysed, risk in the combined exposure group was greater than predicted by the additive model. Asbestos exposure multiplies risk of lung cancer by a similar factor in non-smokers and smokers.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2001, Vol.58, No.3, p.145-153. 37 ref.

2000

CIS 04-19 Resolution No.845/2000 - Prohibition of the production, importation, sale and use of asbestos (amphibole) fibres and of products containing them [Argentina]
Resolución 845/2000 - Prohíbese la producción, importación, comercialización y uso de fibras de Asbesto variedad Anfiboles y productos que las contengan [Argentina] [in Spanish]
This ministerial resolution bans all use of amphibole asbestos (in all its varieties, including crocidolite and amosite) in Argentina as of 16 Dec. 2000.
Boletín Oficial de la República Argentina, 17 Oct. 2000, No.29505, p.6.
http://infoleg.mecon.gov.ar/txtnorma/64604.htm [in Spanish]

CIS 03-824 Guidelines on the handling of asbestos materials
These guidelines prepared by the Department of Industrial Health are aimed at those who undertake work with asbestos or asbestos containing materials. Contents: relevant legislation; health risks; identification of asbestos containing materials and notification of work involving asbestos; procedures for the handling of asbestos-based materials in the building and civil engineering industries; removal of asbestos-based insulating lagging; removal of asbestos-based materials from buildings; protective clothing and equipment; personal hygiene; dust monitoring; medical examinations. Appendices include: notification form of processes involving asbestos; list of asbestos-analysing laboratories and of companies supplying industrial vacuum cleaners and dust extracting systems; threshold limit values; sampling strategies for in-plant environmental surveillance programmes; hygiene monitoring report form and example of report; proposed environmental management courses; list of organization conducting air monitoring and/or sample analysis; application form for permission to dispose of asbestos waste.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Safety and Health Division, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, June 2000. 30p.
http://www.mom.gov.sg/MOM/OHD/Publications/586_HandAsbestos.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-300 Browne K., Gee B.L.
Asbestos exposure and laryngeal cancer
Studies of workers exposed to asbestos that included data on laryngeal disease are reviewed, together with studies of laryngeal cancers with epidemiological or experimental evidence of associated exposures. Confounding factors of smoking and alcohol intake create major difficulties for the identification of any asbestos or other occupational effects. Smoking and alcohol are independently and synergistically associated with large increases in the relative risk of laryngeal cancer. However, few studies provide details of either habit. Among 24 prospective studies for which a standardized mortality ratio was available, there was a clear excess risk only in one case. In 17 retrospective studies, only two showed a significantly increased risk. Evidence from animal experiments, studies of associations with pleural plaques, and autopsy findings also appear negative or inconclusive. The evidence does not indicate that asbestos exposure increases the risk of laryngeal cancer.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, June 2000, Vol.44, No.4, p.239-250. 101 ref.

CIS 03-310 Wang X.R., Christiani D.C.
Respiratory symptoms and functional status in workers exposed to silica, asbestos and coal mine dusts
Respiratory symptoms and lung function were studied in 220 silica, 227 asbestos and 551 coal mining workers. Data included responses to questionnaires, results of pulmonary function tests and chest radiographs. Significantly poorer pulmonary function and a higher prevalence of dyspnoea and chronic cough were observed in workers with pneumoconiosis, irrespective of dust type. Workers with stages II and III silicosis had worse pulmonary function and more symptoms than workers with equivalent coal workers' pneumoconiosis or asbestosis. Reductions in single-breath diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DL_CO) and the occurrence of respiratory symptoms were associated with increasing stages of silicosis, asbestosis and coal workers' pneumoconiosis. Despite the difference in degree and pattern of exposure to different fibrogenic dusts, respiratory impairments of all of the workers were associated with the presence and progression of parenchymal fibrosis and smoking.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2000, Vol.42, No.11, p.1076-1084. Illus. 34 ref.

CIS 02-1856 Huré P., Kauffer E., Roos F., Dornier G.
Asbestos substitution
Substitution de l'amiante [in French]
According to the provisions of Commission Directive 1999/77/EC of 26 July 1999 (see CIS 99-1767), there will be a total ban effective 1 January 2005 on the placing of all forms of asbestos on the European market. This information sheet presents the current situation of asbestos substitutes with respect to occupational safety and health regulations. Contents: possible substitute processes and materials by use; evaluation of hazards of substitute materials to human health; regulations; eight-hour time-weighted average exposure limits (TWA); classification and labelling of substitute materials; limitation of exposure (technical measures, use of personal protective equipment), current activities of INRS and its collaborating organizations.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, June 2000. 4p. Illus. 6 ref. Can also be found on the site: http://www.inrs.fr/produits/

CIS 02-1772
Gruppo di lavoro per la sorveglianza del mesotelioma in Romagna
Analysis of occupational exposure to asbestos in cases of mesothelioma registered in Romagna (1986-1998)
Analisi dell'esposizione professionale ad asbesto dei casi di mesotelioma registrati in Romagna - 1986-1998 [in Italian]
Among 125 cases of mesothelioma of the pleura, peritoneum and pericardium registered in the Romagna region (Italy) between 1986 and 1998, adequate information was obtained for 122 subjects with past occupational exposure to asbestos. The male/female ratio was 81/41. The median age was 68 years and pleural location accounted for 96 cases. Time period, residence, kind of diagnosis, information about family relations and smoking habits exerted no independent effect. Occupational exposure occurred in a total of 22 different kind of workplaces.
Medicina del lavoro, Nov.-Dec. 2000, Vol.91, No.6, p.575-586. 44 ref.

CIS 02-1648 Ascoli V., Fantini F., Carnovale-Scalzo C., Blasetti F., Bruno C., Di Domenicantonio R., Lo Presti E., Pasetto R., Nardi F., Comba P.
Malignant mesothelioma in the industrial area of Colleferro
Mesotelioma maligno nel comprensorio industriale di Colleferro [in Italian]
The occurrence of pleural and peritoneal malignant mesothelioma among workers in a large chemical plant near Rome in Italy is analysed. The plant produces organic chemicals, acid mixtures, insecticides and explosives. It is also involved in the manufacturing of rail rolling stock. Asbestos was extensively used in the past. Hospital records reveal 18 cases of malignant mesothelioma (pleural/peritoneal ratio of 2.75:1) among workers and/or residents. In the area surrounding the same chemical plant the incidence of confirmed mesothelioma per 100,000 is 10.1 among men and 4.1 among women, which are the highest rates reported so far in Italy. Besides confirming the risk of mesothelioma in railroad rolling stock manufacturing and asbestos-insulated pipe maintenance workers, a cluster of malignant mesothelioma is also identified in explosives production workers.
Medicina del lavoro, Nov.-Dec. 2000, Vol.91, No.6, p.547-564. 32 ref.

CIS 02-1405 Calleja i Vila A., Hernández i Carrascosa S., Freixa Blanxart A.
Demolition, elimination or maintenance operations involving asbestos-containing materials. Practical examples
Operaciones de demolición, retirada o mantenimiento de materiales con amianto. Ejemplos prácticos [in Spanish]
This information note describes the most important aspects of removal or maintenance of asbestos-containing materials with the help of practical examples for operations involving asbestos cement ("non-friable") and insulating ("friable") materials in the form of building panels or pipe insulation sheathing. The following aspects are covered: personal protective equipment; working methods; preliminary work; preparing the work area; working area entry and exit procedures; preventive measures to be taken outside the direct working area.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 4p. Illus. 3 ref.

CIS 02-1238 Alkhuja S., Miller A., Mastellone A.J., Markowitz S.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma presenting as spontaneous pneumothorax: A case series and review
Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is thought to arise from the mesothelial cells that line the pleural cavities. Most patients initially experience the insidious onset of chest pain or shortness of breath, and it rarely presents as spontaneous pneumothorax. Case reports of four patients who presented in this manner are included. Three of the patients were exposed to asbestos directly or indirectly at shipyards during World War II; the fourth was exposed as an insulator's wife. Two of our cases were not recognized to have MPM on histological examination at first thoracotomy and remained asymptomatic for 12 and 22 months, respectively. In none of the patients was spontaneous pneumothorax the cause of death. Since many people were exposed to asbestos during and after World War II, spontaneous pneumothorax in a patient with the possibility of such exposure should raise the suspicion of malignant pleural mesothelioma.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 2000, Vol.38, No.2, p.219-223. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 02-1259 Schneider T., Lepicard S., Oudiz A., Gadbois S., Hériard-Dubreuil G.
A comparison of the carcinogenic risk assessment and management of asbestos, nickel and ionising radiation
French regulations and methodologies used for the assessment and management of the carcinogenic risk of asbestos, nickel aerosols and ionizing radiation are discussed and compared. The data collected reveal some significant similarities in the principle on which the assessment and management of risks of low-level exposure are based, and although the procedures used are based on relatively distinct instruments, they produce results that are not dissimilar and that in general reflect the shared concern to devise reasonable solutions with regard to the prevention of carcinogenic risks.
OECD Nuclear Energy Agency, Le Seine St-Germain, 12 Boulevard des Iles, 92130 Issy-les-Moulineaux, France, Nov. 2000. 83p. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 02-838 Kielkowski D., Nelson G., Rees D.
Risk of mesothelioma from exposure to crocidolite asbestos: A 1995 update of a South African mortality study
A cohort mortality study was carried out in Prieska, Northern Cape Province, South Africa, with a history of crocidolite asbestos mining and milling. The cohort comprised 2,390 white births from 1916 to 1936. Causes of death due to mesothelioma and other cancers were investigated. There were 118 cases of cancer, 28 of them from mesothelioma. All cancer mortality, mesothelioma and lung cancer ratios were increased. The mortality for mesothelioma in men was twice that in women, probably because men were more likely to have had both occupational and environmental exposure to asbestos.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2000, Vol.57, No.8, p.563-567. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 02-347 Tossavainen A., Lehtinen S., Huuskonen M., Rantanen J.
New advances in radiology and screening of asbestos-related diseases
Proceedings of an expert meeting held in Espoo, Finland, 9-11 February 2000. Topics presented: up-date of the Helsinki Criteria for individual attribution of asbestos exposure and lung cancer risk factors; recommendations of the French Consensus Meeting; screening and surveillance of workers exposed to asbestos, including specific experiences in Japan, Germany and Finland; epidemiological trends for asbestos-related cancers; lung cancer screening using computed tomography (CT) and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT); correlations of radiological and pathological characteristics of asbestosis; CT and HRCT classifications for pneumoconiosis and occupational chest disease.
Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Publication Office, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2000. 89p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 02-267 Plan for the removal of asbestos-containing friable materials - Analysis by the occupational physician
Plan de retrait de matériaux friables contenant de l'amiante - Analyse par le médecin du travail [in French]
Article 23, Section 4, of French Decree No.96-98 of 7 February 1996 (see CIS 96-404) on the protection of workers against hazards due to the inhaling of asbestos dust requires that all asbestos-removal work be submitted to the opinion of the industrial physician. A working group of company physicians was set up in order to share their experiences and to propose a method for analysing the various elements of the asbestos-removal plan which require the attention of industrial physicians. The objective is to help the company physicians reach a reasoned opinion on the aspects of the removal plan that are of particular concern to them, knowing that the plan is also submitted to the hygiene and safety committees, or in their absence, to workers' representatives. One month prior to the start of work, this plan is communicated to the labour inspection and occupational health authorities for the approval of technical aspects.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2000, No.82, p.115-123. Illus. 8 ref.

CIS 01-1744 Golbderg M., Banaei A., Goldberg S., Auvert B., Luce D., Guéguen A.
Past occupational exposure to asbestos among men in France
The purpose of this study was to reconstruct changes in the frequency and levels of occupational asbestos exposure in France over the past century. Work histories were collected during 11 population-based case-referent studies and an asbestos-specific job-exposure matrix including 10,625 jobs was used to estimate indices of past occupational asbestos exposure. The highest proportion of exposed subjects was found between 1950 and 1980. For each age class born between 1900 and 1939, the proportion exposed at least once by 60 years of age ranged from 18.2% to 24.5%. A population exposure index showed that the heaviest exposure occurred between 1960 and 1970 and that the age classes born between 1920 and 1929 were the most heavily exposed. The data from this study are being used to forecast the development of male mortality from mesothelioma in France.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 2000, Vol.26, No.1, p.52-61. Illus. 33 ref.

CIS 01-1743 De Vuyst P., Karjalainen A., Dumortier P., Monsó E., Brochard P., Teschler H., Tossavainen A., Gibbs A.
Guidelines for the analysis of mineral fibres in biological samples
Recommandations pour l'analyse des fibres minérales dans les échantillons biologiques [in French]
This article consists of guidelines of a pan-European working group with respect to the methodology for counting asbestos fibres in biological samples through optical microscopy, so as to ensure good practice and reliability of results among laboratories carrying out these analyses. Contents include: definition of control populations and reference levels; sampling; methods of preparation and analysis; asbestos fibres in the lung parenchyma during various stages of asbestos-related diseases; asbestos bodies in lung parenchyma, brochoalveolar lavage liquid and expectoration; presence of fibres and asbestosic bodies in biological samples.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2000, No.81, p.3-19. Illus. 53 ref.

CIS 01-1785 Calleja i Vila A., Hernández i Carrascosa S., Freixa Blanxart A.
Practical guidance for the preparation of plans for working with asbestos
Planes de trabajo con amianto: orientaciones prácticas para su realización [in Spanish]
This information note presents practical guidance for preparing the plans required by law for activities involving work with asbestos, which in Spain need to be approved by the competent authority. Contents: different types of work plans; elements which in Spain need to be present in the work plan (nature of the work, duration and number of workers involved, methods used, preventive measures for limiting the generation and dispersion of asbestos fibres, environmental air sampling, personal protective equipment, ventilation and worker decontamination systems, protection of areas located near the work area, information of workers, waste disposal).
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 5p. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 01-1462 Hodgson J.T., Darnton A.
The quantitative risks of mesothelioma and lung cancer in relation to asbestos exposure
Mortality reports on asbestos-exposed cohorts which gave information on exposure levels from which (as a minimum) a cohort average cumulative exposure could be estimated were reviewed. At exposure levels seen in occupational cohorts it is concluded that the exposure specific risk of mesothelioma from three principal commercial asbestos types is broadly in the ratio 1:100:500 for chrysotile, amosite and crocidolite, respectively. For lung cancer the conclusions are less clear cut. Cohorts exposed only to crocidolite or amosite record similar exposure specific risk levels, but chrysotile-exposed cohorts show a less consistent picture. An excess risk is recorded by cohorts with mixed fibre exposures (generally <1%). It is suggested that a best estimate lung cancer risk for chrysotile alone would be 0.1%, with a highest reasonable estimate of 0.5%. The risk differential between chrysotile and the two amphibole fibres for lung cancer is thus between 1:10 and 1:50. Based on these considerations, and a discussion of the associated uncertainties, a series of quantified risk summary statements for different levels of cumulative exposure are presented.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Dec. 2000, Vol.44, No.8, p.565-601. Illus. 73 ref.

CIS 01-821 Catasta P.F., Cavalieri P.G., Chiappino G:, Governa M., Munaf E., Paoletti L., Verducchi P., Paba G.
Presence of asbestos on ships: Study of airborne fibre concentrations on ferry boats owned by the Italian State Railways
Presenza di amianto sulle navi: studio sulla concentrazione de fibre aerodisperse su navi traghetto delle Ferrovie dello Stato [in Italian]
Asbestos has been widely used on ships as an insulating material due to its fire-resistant and sound-absorbent properties. The concentrations of airborne asbestos fibres on two ferries in regular service were measured. Decontamination work had been carried out on these vessels in order to remove or to confine the asbestos. Between 1994 and 1998, 123 air samples were analyzed. For 98.4% of the samples, concentrations were below 2 fibres/litre, which is the value set by Ministerial Decree of 6/9/94 for buildings to qualify for effective decontamination status. Concentrations between 2 and 10 fibres/litre, were found in one engine room. The results show that there is no environmental dispersion of asbestos fibres in usual navigation conditions. However, it appears desirable to extend the legislation to naval vessels in order to define clear criteria for risk evaluation, checking and maintenance procedures of asbestos-insulated vessels, and procedures for each job on board involving handling or removal of asbestos-containing material.
Medicina del lavoro, Mar.-Apr. 2000, Vol.91, No.2, p.131-134. 9 ref.

CIS 01-818 Roggli V.L., Sanders L.L.
Asbestos content of lung tissue and carcinoma of the lung: A clinicopathologic correlation and mineral fiber analysis of 234 cases
The aim of this study was to investigate the asbestos content of lung tissue in patients with lung cancer and asbestos exposure. This information was then correlated with demographic information, occupational and smoking history, presence or absence of pathologic asbestosis or pleural plaques, and features of lung cancer. Asbestos body counts were performed in 229 cases and fibre analysis by scanning electron microscopy in 221 cases. Asbestos content was recorded as total asbestos fibres, commercial amphibole fibres, noncommercial amphibole fibres and chrysotile fibres 5µm or longer in length. The study group included 70 patients with asbestosis (group I), 44 patients with parietal pleural plaques (group II) and 120 patients with neither (group III). The median asbestos body content of group I was more than 35 times greater than group II and more than 300 times greater than group III. The total asbestos fibre count for group I was nearly 20 times that of group II and more than 50 times that of group III. In a series of primary lung cancer cases with some history of asbestos exposure, a markedly elevated asbestos content was identified among those with pathologic asbestosis as compared with patents with pleural plaques alone or with neither plaques nor asbestosis.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Mar. 2000, Vol.44, No.2, p.109-117. 35 ref.

CIS 01-58
Health and Safety Executive
Managing asbestos in workplace buildings
This booklet provides guidance on the management of asbestos in workplace buildings. The hazards of asbestos, people at risk and materials where asbestos may be found in buildings are outlined. Management of asbestos involves various steps: knowledge of the building (location of the asbestos, form of the asbestos, assessing its condition, type of asbestos); decision and action (leaving asbestos in place, repair or removal). Legal requirements for asbestos disposal are highlighted and the need to inform workers and contractors is emphasized. Replaces CIS 96-1435.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Rev.ed., Aug. 2000. 20p. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 01-158 Bianchi C., Brollo A., Ramani L.
Asbestos exposure in a shipyard area, northeastern Italy
To monitor asbestos exposure in the Monfalcone area of northeastern Italy where a large shipyard is based, the results of 3,640 necropsies carried out between October 1979 and September 1998 in a local hospital were scrutinized. Thoracic cavities were examined for small, moderate or large pleural plaques. Routine histological sections of lung tissue were examined for asbestos bodies. Isolation and counting of asbestos bodies were performed in 1,075 cases. Lifetime occupational data were collected in 1,277 cases. Pleural plaques were observed in 70.5% of cases among men and in 23.8 % among women, but their prevalence did not show significant variations during the study period. Asbestos bodies were found on routine lung sections in 23.7% of men and 3.0% of women. Shipyard workers were characterized by high prevalence of pleural plaques, high prevalence of asbestos bodies on routine lung sections, and high amounts of lung asbestos bodies after isolation. The present data indicate that asbestos exposure may reach alarming levels in the shipyard areas.
Industrial Health, July 2000, Vol.38, No.3, p.301-308. 37 ref.

CIS 00-765 Tossavainen A., Kovalevsky E., Vanhala E., Tuomi T.
Pulmonary mineral fibers after occupational and environmental exposure to asbestos in the Russian chrysotile industry
The concentration and type of asbestos fibres were determined in 47 lung tissue samples from autopsies of workers and residents in the area of the world's largest asbestos mine at Asbest, Russia. Work histories were obtained from pathology reports and employment records. In 24 chrysotile miners, millers and product manufacturers, the pulmonary concentrations of retained fibres were 0.8-50.6 million f/g for chrysotile, and <0.1-1.9 million f/g for amphiboles. The concentrations were lower in 23 persons without any known occupational contact with asbestos, namely 0.1-14.6 million f/g for chrysotile, and <0.1-0.7 million f/g for amphiboles. On average, 90% of all inorganic fibres were chrysotile, and 5% tremolite or anthophyllite. Occupational contact was the most important source of asbestos exposure.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Apr. 2000, Vol.37, No.4, p.327-333. 23 ref.

CIS 00-419 Seniori Constantini A., Innocenti A., Ciapini C., Silvestri S., Merler E.
Mortality study of employees of a railway rolling stock factory
Studio sulla mortalità degli addetti di un'azienda di produzione di rotabili ferroviari [in Italian]
A study was carried out on the mortality of employees of a factory making railway rolling stock in which crocidolite was used to insulate the coaches in the 1960s and 1970s. 3,741 employees who had worked in the factory between 1960 and 1995 were included in the study, with the main aim of investigating cancer mortality in these subjects. Nine cases of mesothelioma were known in this factory before starting the study. The follow-up was performed from 1960 to 1996. The SMRs for lung cancer and mesothelioma in 2,737 blue-collar workers were 1.23 and 6.50, respectively, based on Italian national rates. The excesses were mainly found among subjects who had worked before 1970 with duration of employment exceeding 20 years.
Medicina del lavoro, Jan.-Feb. 2000, Vol.91, No.1, p.32-45. 13 ref.

CIS 92-1428 Sprayed asbestos and other materials based on friable asbestos - Directive [Switzerland]
Spritzasbest und andere schwachgebundene asbesthaltige Materialen - Richtlinie [in German]
Amianto floccato e altri materiali a base d'amianto debolmente agglomerato (amianto DA) - Direttiva [in Italian]
Amiante floqué et autres matériaux à base d'amiante faiblement aggloméré (amiante FA) - Directive [Suisse] [in French]
Part I of this Directive is concerned with safe working conditions during the elimination of sprayed asbestos, the treatment or sealing of asbestos-containing surfaces and the cleaning of premises contaminated with asbestos: basic requirements placed on enterprises (hiring of safety specialists, protection of young persons, information of workers, medical surveillance); general safety requirements (work planning, preparatory work, air quality, personal protective equipment, bags for transporting and storing asbestos); special provisions during the elimination of sprayed asbestos, the treatment or sealing of asbestos-containing surfaces and the cleaning of contaminated premises. Part II concerns risk evaluation in premises where there is a risk of exposure to asbestos. List of other applicable legal texts. Extensive commentary, including discussion of the exposure limit (TWA): 500,000f/m³ for crocidolite, 1,000,000f/m³ for other types of asbestos. In annex: evaluation table for establishing the urgency of asbestos decontamination; contamination monitoring in buildings before, during and after decontamination; obligations of building owners; decision tree for safety precautions; responsibilities for safety; protection of the general population; warning signs.
Eidgenössische Koordinationskommission für Arbeitssicherheit, Richtlinienbüro, Fluhmattstrasse 1, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, 2000. 44p. Illus.
http://wwwitsp1.suva.ch/sap/its/mimes/waswo/99/pdf/06503-f.pdf [in French]
http://wwwitsp1.suva.ch/sap/its/mimes/waswo/99/pdf/06503-d.pdf [in German]
http://wwwitsp1.suva.ch/sap/its/mimes/waswo/99/pdf/06503-i.pdf [in Italian]

1999

CIS 03-1518 Health and Safety - The Asbestos (Prohibitions) (Amendment) Regulations 1999 [United Kingdom]
These Regulations amend the 1992 Regulations prohibiting most uses of asbestos (see CIS 93-359), at the same time implementing in Great Britain Commission Directive 1999/77/EC (see CIS 99-1767). Among the changes introduced the Regulations change the definition of "supply" to cover the supply of asbestos for considerations other than money. The prohibition on the importation, supply and use of asbestos is extended to chrysotile. Provision is made for the granting of exemptions in the interest of national security. In annex: schedule of derogations from the prohibition on the importation, supply and use of chrysotile.
The Stationery Office Ltd (TSO), PO Box 29, Norwich NR3 1GN, United Kingdom, 1999. 5p. Price: GBP 2.00.
http://www.legislation.hmso.gov.uk/si/si1999/19992373.htm [in English]

CIS 02-357 Calleja i Villa A., Hernández i Carrascosa S., Freixa Blanxart A.
Work plans for removing or maintaining of asbestos-containing materials
Planes de trabajo para operaciones de retirada o mantenimiento de materiales con amianto [in Spanish]
The exposure of workers to asbestos is regulated. This information note describes the legal framework for the protection of workers against exposure to asbestos, and addresses more specifically the factors to be taken into consideration when planning the removal or maintenance of materials containing asbestos. These factors are to be included in the work plan that needs to be approved by the authorities before beginning the work.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 4p. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 01-1148 Definition of a strategy for the clinical medical surveillance of persons exposed to asbestos
Elaboration d'une stratégie de surveillance médicale clinique des personnes exposées à l'amiante [in French]
This article consists of the report of the jury of a consensus conference involving several French professional bodies, held at Paris La Villette (15 Jan. 1999) and organized at the request of the French Ministry of Employment and Solidarity. The questions that need to be addressed and the various steps necessary for the development of an asbestos exposure clinical medical surveillance program are described. Contents include: clinical medical surveillance tools; dose-effect relationship; medical impact of screening; social impact of screening; practical aspects of screening; future developments.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 1999, No.78, p.157-165.

CIS 01-1116 Estimation by occupational physicians of the asbestos risk
Estimation du risque amiante par le médecin du travail [in French]
A questionnaire survey was conducted among occupational physicians in the Poitou-Charentes region of France concerning their perception of the risks caused by asbestos. At a time when the involvement of occupational physicians in the prevention of asbestos risk is being discussed, this survey contributes interesting information, in particular on their perception of this risk and the difficulties of risk assessment.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 1999, No.78, p.145-156. 7 ref.

CIS 01-1147 Turner G., Cessac M., Trutt B.
Workers' compensation for occupational diseases caused by inhalation of asbestos dust
La réparation des maladies professionnelles dues à l'inhalation de poussières d'amiante [in French]
Faced with numerous questions raised by physicians on the consequences of the acceptance of a disease as being occupational in nature, both in terms of employee compensation and of cost to the employer, this article summarizes the main provisions of the French Social Security Law, some of which are expected to be amended in the near future.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 1999, No.78, p.137-143.

CIS 01-1146 Meyer A., Le Bâcle C.
Asbestos-related occupational diseases: The situation in France
Affections professionnelles liées à l'amiante: situation en France [in French]
Since 1976, the asbestos risk has been the object of a new approach in both occupational and public health. In its report on working conditions, the French Ministry of Labour states that 975 cases of asbestos-related diseases were recognized by the general insurance scheme for salaried workers in 1996. This number is expected to increase in the future. At a time when the medical surveillance of exposed workers is being publicly debated, it appeared necessary to take stock of current medical understanding, professional epidemiology and prevention approaches with respect to this risk.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 1999, No.78, p.103-135. Illus. 66 ref.

CIS 01-1145 Roos F.
Physiopathology of asbestos-related diseases
Physiopathologie des maladies liées à l'amiante [in French]
Although the toxicological mechanisms of asbestos fibres are complex and still not completely understood, it was felt useful to summarize currently available data for the benefit of occupational physicians. Knowledge of these mechanisms should allow the problem raised by the toxicity of asbestos substitute fibres, some of which have similar characteristics, to be addressed more globally. These "mechanistic" studies should contribute towards the development of artificial fibres of reduced toxicity, or at least to guide legislators and regulators in implementing industrial hygiene measures aimed at reducing the risks among users having to handle these materials.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 1999, No.78, p.91-102. Illus. 62 ref.

CIS 01-1128 Cherrie J.W., Schneider T.
Validation of a new method for structured subjective assessment of past concentrations
A new method was developed to assess the level of exposure from airborne hazardous substances. The method provides subjective exposure assessments using a structured approach, based on descriptive information about work activities and the work environment. Validation of the method has been carried out for 63 jobs involving five different agents: man-made mineral fibres, asbestos, styrene, toluene and mixed respirable dust. The subjective exposure assessment generally showed a statistically significant correlation with exposure measurements, the main exception to this pattern being the styrene data set. The assessments were also positively biased, with the ratio of the geometric mean estimated level to the measured level typically ranging from 1.3 to 2.2. Possible causes of the bias are discussed along with approaches to minimize its effect.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, May 1999, Vol.43, No.4, p.235-245. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 01-1114 Besson P., Lalanne F.X., Wang Y., Guyot F.
Multi-parameter observation of environmental asbestos pollution at the Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris (Jussieu Campus, France)
A multi-parameter system was used to evaluate total fibres and asbestos fibres in ten locations of a university institute building. The baseline level of total fibres longer than 3µm was 2.5 fibres per litre, and less than 10 fibres per litre during the presence of staff. The baseline level of asbestos fibres was around 0.1 fibres per litre. The statistical study of fibre length indicates that 70% and 55%, respectively, of chrysotile and amosite fibres are shorter than 5µm. Although representing the bulk of asbestos-containing materials, the concentration of amosite in air is one-tenth that of chrysotile. The overall low level of airborne asbestos detected and the different nature of asbestos in building materials and as detected in air indicates that the measured asbestos in the ambient air is probably representative of the geochemical background of chrysotile asbestos fibres in the ambient air of the Paris region.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Nov. 1999, Vol.43, No.8, p.527-541. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 01-499 Barbieri P.G., Migliori M., Merler E.
Incidence of malignant mesothelioma (1977-1996) and exposure to asbestos in a population of a lakeside area (Lake Iseo, Northern Italy)
Incidenza del mesotelioma maligno (1977-1996) ed esposizione ad amianto nella popolazione di un'area limitrofa al lago d'Iseo, Nord Italia [in Italian]
A 20-year retrospective study of the residents near Lake Iseo, Northern Italy, where most of the work force of two factories was recruited, was undertaken in order to identify the occurrence and possible occupational origin of mesothelioma. A total of 21 cases were identified, 6 (all men) in a factory producing crocidolite and chrysotile ropes and gaskets, 10 (of whom 6 were women) in an adjacent textile factory which were attributed both to pollution by the first factory and to exposure to asbestos dust during frequent fireproofing involving asbestos blankets, and 5 cases among women working in silk factories where exposure was due to the presence of pipes insulated with asbestos. The study concludes that the incidence of mesothelioma is associated with occupational exposure to asbestos and that the occurrence of the disease is more frequent among women.
Medicina del lavoro, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.90, No.6, p.762-775. 20 ref.

CIS 00-1694
Health and Safety Executive
The control of asbestos at work (3rd edition) - Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 1987. Approved Code of Practice
Approved Code of Practice devoted to the implementation of the 1987 Regulations (see CIS 89-1418). Topics: asbestos; assessment of fibrogenicity; cleaning of workplaces; compendium; determination in air; directive; exposure evaluation; functions; health service records; implementation of control measures; legislation; limitation of exposure; medical supervision; notification of dangerous substances; preventive maintenance; protective clothing; respirable dust; safety training in industry; storage; suppression of airborne dust; United Kingdom; warning notices.
HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 3rd ed., Feb. 1999. iv, 40p. Illus. 30 ref. Price: GBP 6.75.

CIS 00-1693
Health and Safety Executive
Work with asbestos insulation, asbestos coating and asbestos insulating board (3rd edition) - Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 1987. Approved Code of Practice
Approved Code of Practice devoted to the implementation of the 1987 Regulations (see CIS 89-1418). Topics: asbestos; determination in air; directive; disposal of harmful waste; dust control; functions; health service records; law; legislation; limitation of exposure; medical supervision; notification of dangerous substances; personal hygiene; personal protective equipment; preventive maintenance; respirable dust; safety training in industry; United Kingdom; warning notices.
HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 3rd ed., Feb.1999. iv, 40p, Illus. 34 ref. Price: GBP 6.75.

CIS 00-1692
Health and Safety Executive
Controlled asbestos stripping techniques for work requiring a licence
Topics: asbestos; demolition; disposal of harmful waste; dust control; insulating materials; legal aspects; United Kingdom; water jet cleaning.
HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., Feb. 1999. iv, 48p. Illus. 18 ref. Price: GBP 8.50.

CIS 00-1691
Health and Safety Executive
Working with asbestos cement
Topics: asbestos cement; asbestos; construction work; demolition; disposal of harmful waste; dust control; hazard evaluation; limitation of exposure; notification of dangerous substances; protective clothing; respirators; United Kingdom; uses.
HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., Feb. 1999. iv, 44p. Illus. 19 ref. Price: GBP 7.50.

CIS 00-1233 Interministerial Order of 15 June 1999 on the technical rules to be followed by enterprises conducting asbestos confinement and removal activities [Algeria]
Arrêté interministériel du 15 juin 1999 relatif aux règles techniques que doivent respecter les entreprises effectuant des activités de confinement et de retrait de l'amiante [Algérie] [in French]
This interministerial Order specifies the compulsory collective and individual protective measures during activities involving the confinement and removal of asbestos, or of friable materials containing asbestos.
Journal officiel de la République algérienne, 26 Sep. 1999, No.68, p.4-6.

CIS 00-1070
Gruppo di lavoro per la sorveglianza del mesotelioma in Romagna
Reporting and compensation of mesothelioma associated with occupational exposure to asbestos in Romagna, Italy (1986-1994)
Denuncia ed indennizzo del mesotelioma da esposizione professionale ad asbesto in Romagna (1986-1994) [in Italian]
The working group for mesothelioma surveillance investigated 94 cases reported to the Cancer Registry of the Romagna region of Italy between 1986 and 1994 with respect to reporting practice, compensation criteria and decisions, and occupational history, including asbestos exposure. The involvement of hospital and company physicians, the rates of reporting and compensation, and past coverage of cancer and mesothelioma records were found to be insufficient. A more accurate diagnostic process and swifter notification to the occupational health authorities appear desirable for improved compensation.
Medicina del lavoro, May-June 1999, Vol.90, No.3, p.460-472. 33 ref.

CIS 00-1058 Levin J.L., O'Sullivan M.F., Corn C.J., Glenn Williams M., Dodson R.F.
Asbestosis and small cell lung cancer in a clutch refabricator
A case of asbestosis and small cell lung cancer in a clutch refabricator is described. Exposed surfaces of used clutches similar to those refabricated in the worker's workplace were rinsed, and the filtrate analysed by analytical transmission electron microscopy. Tissue samples were also analysed by this technique. Numerous chrysotile fibres of respirable dimensions and sufficient length to form ferruginous bodies (FBs) were detected from rinsed filtrates of the clutch. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid contained many FBs, characteristic of asbestos bodies. Necropsy lung tissue showed grade 4 asbestosis and a small cell carcinoma in the right pulmonary hilum. Tissue analysis by light and analytical electron microscopy showed tissue burdens of coated and uncoated asbestos fibres greatly exceeding reported environmental concentrations (3810 FBs/g dry weight and 2,080,000 structures ≥0.5µm/g dry weight respectively). 72% of the cores were identified as chrysotile. In conclusion, clutch refabrication may lead to exposure to asbestos of sufficient magnitude to cause asbestosis and lung cancer.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.56, No.9, p.602-605. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 00-789 Bianchi C., Brollo A., Ramani L., Zuch C.
Asbestos exposure in lung carcinoma: A necropsy-based study of 414 cases
Occupational history, pleural plaques and lung asbestos bodies were investigated in 414 consecutive cases of lung carcinoma examined at necropsy at the Hospital of Monfalcone, Italy. The series included 353 men and 61 women, aged 38-97 years. The male patients had worked in industry in 74% of cases (60% in shipbuilding). Men showed pleural plaques in 82% of cases. Asbestos bodies were observed in routine lung sections in 34.8%, and in 31% exceeded the value of 5,000 bodies per gramme of dried tissue. Among women the principal features were: history or domestic exposure to asbestos in 36% of the cases, prevalence of pleural plaques 34% (moderate or large plaques 15%), asbestos bodies in routine lung sections in 3.3% and there was no case with an asbestos body burden over 5,000/g. The fraction of asbestos-related carcinomas among male patients varied between 24.7 and 61%, depending on the criteria used for attribution. Different criteria indicated that about 60% of the present lung carcinomas among men as plausibly attributable to asbestos.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.36, No.3, p.360-364. 22 ref.

CIS 00-787 Hillerdal G.
Mesothelioma: Cases associated with non-occupational and low dose exposures
To estimate the role of low-level exposure to asbestos in the risk of mesothelioma, a review of the literature revealed that there is no evidence of a threshold level below which there is no risk of mesothelioma. Low-level exposure more often than not contains peak concentrations which can be very high for short periods. There might exist a background level of mesothelioma occurring in the absence of exposure to asbestos, but there is no proof of this and this "natural level" is probably much lower than the 1-2/million/year which has often been cited.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1999, Vol.56, No.8, p.505-513. 142 ref.

CIS 00-806
Health and Safety Executive
A guide to the Asbestos (Licensing) Regulations 1983 as amended
This guide is a revision of the 1991 edition of booklet HS(R)19 (see CIS 92-585). It contains annotations and comments on the Regulations concerning work with asbestos in the United Kingdom (see CIS 83-1850). Appendices provide copies of the licence application form and the asbestos licence form.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 1999. iv, 22p. 8 ref. Price: GBP 6.00.

CIS 00-880 Artus D., Baud J.P., Bruel T., Pouliquen P., Chamoux A.
Assessment of the cardiac load on a flock removal site
Evaluation de la charge cardiaque sur un chantier de déflocage [in French]
Carried out on voluntary flock removal operators, the objective of this study was to establish their aptitude to work under physically and psychologically demanding conditions and to estimate, as a function of the specific constraints of the workplace, the maximum consecutive length of time for wearing personal protective equipment, and consequently the time of stay in risk zones. Heart rhythms were measured, and total pulse rate was determined during phases of confinement (98.2 beats/min, 53.9%) and flock removal (104.6 beats/min, 57%). Results confirm that flock removal is to be considered as a "somewhat heavy" or "heavy" activity. The conditions of confinement and restrictive work postures increase the strenuousness of the work. The heat prevailing in the work area, worsened by the wear of personal protective equipment, is a predominant factor in explaining the strenuous nature of these tasks.
Revue de médecine du travail, May-June 1999, Vol.XXVI, No.3, p.169-181. Illus. 38 ref.

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