NIOSH Alert: Request for Assistance in Preventing Organic Dust Toxic Syndrome

摘要

Organic dust toxic syndrome (ODTS) in agricultural workers exposed to organic dusts contaminated with microorganisms was discussed. Four case reports were presented in which a total of 20 agricultural workers developed ODTS after they had been exposed to organic dusts. Several recommendations were offered which could have prevented the illnesses in these cases. These recommendations included awareness of the health effects resulting from breathing organic dusts, informing their physicians regarding recent dust exposures when seeking respiratory treatment, using automated equipment to move decayed materials, and not wearing contaminated clothing from work to home.