272 Development of job exposure matrix for construction workers based on experts’ judgment using the 60 consolidated occupations

Background The aim of this study was to develop a new Korean Construction Job Exposure Matrix (KoConJEM) for the construction industry based on 60 occupations consolidated by the Construction Workers Mutual Aid Association. Methods Evaluation of the probability, intensity, and prevalence of exposure as binary (Yes/No) or four categories (1–4) to 26 hazardous agents for 60 consolidated occupations was performed by 30 industrial hygiene experts. The risk score (1 to 16) was calculated by multiplying the exposure intensity by the prevalence of exposure. The JEM was expressed on a heatmap and a web-based dashboard to facilitate comparison of exposure characteristics according to each occupation and hazardous agent. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) was applied for identification of similar patterns in exposure characteristics of different agents across occupations. Results Hazardous agents evaluated as exposure is probable by at least one or more experts in all occupations included awkward posture, heat/cold, heavy lifting, and noise. The hazardous agent with exposure in the smallest number of occupations (n = 5) was asphalt fumes. The highest risk value of 16 for awkward posture was observed for almost all occupations except safety officer. The results of HCA using risk values showed that the pattern for the welding-related occupational group differed the most from that of other occupational groups. Conclusion The KoConJEM provides information on the probability, intensity, and prevalence of exposure to harmful factors. It might be useful in the conduct of epidemiological studies on health risk assessment of construction workers.