Respiratory effects of bioaerosols: Exposure-response study among salmon-processing workers

Objectives The aim of the study was to determine exposure–response relationships in salmon‐processing workers. Methods Cross‐shift FEV1, acute respiratory symptoms, and exposure to total protein, parvalbumin and endotoxin were main variables measured during one workweek. Exposure–response relationships were analyzed by Generalized Estimation Equations of cross‐week data and by multiple regressions of day‐to‐day data. Results Exposure levels were higher in those workers who reported use of water hose. GEE showed negative coefficients for interaction between TP exposure and time (days) on cross‐week change of FEV1. Multiple regressions showed significant associations between TP levels and cross‐shift change of FEV1 and symptoms (cough, chest tightness) only for Monday shifts. Conclusions A tolerance effect during the course of a workweek is suggested. Use of water hose is a risk process with regard to the liberation of measured components of bioaerosols. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:276–285, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.