HYGIENIC ASSESSMENT OF ASBESTOS IMPACT ON OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND MANAGEMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL RISKS AMONG FIREFIGHTERS AND RESCUE WORKERS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/3041-2080/2025-4-48Keywords:
occupational safety, occupational hygiene, occupational health of firefighters, oncological occupational diseases, mutagens, occupational hazards, asbestosAbstract
The article examines the features of hygienic assessment and assessment of asbestos exposure risks to the occupational health of rescuers, taking into account the modern conditions of emergency and rescue operations, in particular as a result of armed aggression on the territory of Ukraine. The emphasis is on the fact that during the destruction of old buildings, in which asbestos-containing materials (slate, thermal insulation, gaskets, etc.) were widely used, dangerous asbestos fibers enter the atmosphere, which have a pronounced carcinogenic, mutagenic and generally toxic effect. At the same time, rescuers who are the first to enter the destruction zone are most affected. The article contains an analysis of modern epidemiological studies indicating an increased incidence of mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis among employees of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine. The imperfection of existing regulatory and legal documents that do not take into account the specifics of risks during the elimination of the consequences of emergencies, especially in conditions of martial law, is considered. Particular attention is paid to the issues of laboratory dust analysis methods (phase-contrast and scanning electron microscopy), classification of fiber types and their harmful effects on the body. The publication summarizes European experience and approaches to regulating work with asbestos-containing materials, and also highlights international standards for personal protective equipment (FFP3 masks, protective suits, respirators). The authors emphasize the need to harmonize Ukrainian sanitary and hygienic standards with European ones, develop a national risk management program, and introduce mandatory regular medical screenings for rescuers. The proposed practical measures can become the basis for forming a policy for protecting the health of workers in critical professions and preventing occupational diseases.
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