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Biomedical subjects

Steven R Kirkhorn

Publications and source records attributed to Steven R Kirkhorn.

6 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2005

An outbreak of Pontiac fever with respiratory distress among workers performing high-pressure cleaning at a sugar-beet processing plant.

BACKGROUND: In August 2000, the Minnesota Department of Health was notified of and investigated an outbreak of febrile respiratory illness among workers at a sugar-beet processing plant. METHODS: A case was defined as fever and respiratory symptoms occurring in a worker at the sugar-beet plant on or after 31 July 2000. Case patients were interviewed, medical and work records were reviewed, and clinical samples were obtained. The plant was inspected, and environmental samples were collected. RESULTS: Fourteen of 15 case patients performed high-pressure water cleaning in the confined space of an evaporator vessel. Symptoms included fever and chills (100%), chest tightness (93%), cough (80%), and shortness of breath (73%). In case patients, median temperature was 39.4 degrees C, median oxygen saturation was 93%, and median white blood cell count was 12x10(3) cells/ mu L. Four (29%) of 14 case patients showed evidence of Legionella pneumophila exposure, according to serologic testing. Water sources contained up to 10(5) cfu/mL of L. pneumophila and 22,200 endotoxin units/mL. CONCLUSIONS: Outbreak features were consistent with Pontiac fever. Respiratory symptoms, which are atypical for Pontiac fever, could be attributed to a high exposure dose of L. pneumophila from confined-space aerosolization or to endotoxin exposure. This outbreak demonstrates the potential occupational hazards for those performing high-pressure cleaning in confined spaces.

Environmental Exposure↗
PubMed2004

Issues of agricultural safety and health.

Agricultural work is the most prevalent type of employment in the world. In the United States only a few are engaged in creating food and fiber for many. Agriculture includes farming, ranching, fishing, and forestry, and together they carry significant risk for the development of injury or illness. There are numerous special-population issues related to agriculture. Farmers are old and growing older, many workers are children, and migrant and seasonal help, often foreign born, make up a large percentage of the workforce. It has been only relatively recently that concerns of agricultural safety and health have become a major research focus in the United States.

Agricultural Workers' Diseases↗
PubMed2002

Community and environmental health effects of concentrated animal feeding operations.

High-density concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) have become an increasing source of concern with respect to their impact on health, the environment, and quality of life in the communities in which they are located. A growing body of literature has identified a number of potential adverse effects, including the development of antimicrobial resistance patterns, groundwater contamination, and occupational respiratory disease. The odor associated with CAFOs has had a detrimental effect on the quality of life of rural residents, and there may also be associated adverse health effects. Physicians in rural areas may be asked to assess patients with concerns related to neighboring CAFOs and may be drawn into a political battle regarding the authorization of the development of additional CAFOs. This article reviews current research on the community, environmental, and occupational health effects associated with high-density animal production facilities. It also discusses recommendations for evaluating patients affected by CAFO odors and steps to decrease occupational and community exposure.

Animal Husbandry↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Child labor in Ghana cocoa production: focus upon agricultural tasks, ergonomic exposures, and associated injuries and illnesses.

OBJECTIVES: The goal of this study was to determine the occupational hazards experienced by children harvesting cocoa in western Ghana in order to design a vocational literacy life skills curriculum and radio social messaging campaign with a safety component to decrease hazardous work exposures in child agricultural work. METHODS: An observational analysis was conducted of children aged 9 through 17 based upon personal interviews of agricultural workers, focus groups, and direct observation of work practices and activities. Job site analysis incorporated task mapping, job hazard review, and a review of equipment and use of protective gear. RESULTS: Children and young people aged 9 through 17 are exposed to hazardous occupational exposures including strenuous work, sharp tools, and pesticides. Lack of training in proper safety practices and inadequate personal protective equipment were commonly noted. Injuries and illnesses included musculoskeletal disorders, sprains, strains, lacerations to the head, fractures, eye injuries, rashes, and coughing. CONCLUSION: Children working in cocoa harvesting are exposed to physical and chemical hazards without proper training or personal protective equipment. Unless safety interventions occur, there are potential long-term adverse health consequences.

Adolescent↗