SS50-04 INTERVENTIONS TO REDUCE SKIN SENSITISATION TO EPOXY RESINS AND DERMATITIS IN THE WINDMILL BLADE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY: THE EU INTERCAMBIO PROJECT

Abstract Introduction The transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources demands an increased deployment of wind-power generation capacity across the globe. The manufacture of windmill blades, however, remains a labour-intensive process where there is substantial risk of human exposure to epoxy-resins, skin sensitisation and contact dermatitis. Therefore, we aim to develop holistic, sustainable interventions that mitigate these risks. Materials and Methods First, we will work with stakeholders from the industry in Denmark, Spain and Portugal to identify potential risk factors for and routes of skin contamination. Secondly, we will devise solutions that address proposed causal factors and enhance compliance with preventive measures, e.g. using the natural photo fluorescence of epoxy compounds to render contamination visible. Thirdly, we will work with industry partners to implement said interventions and assess their effectiveness by means of experimental trials. Finally, we will work with aforementioned industry partners to develop a strategy for industry-wide implementation of novel preventive measures. Results We will present results from ongoing studies and discuss how the EU INTERCAMBIO project will add to the existing knowledge on the occupational health of workers in the windmill blade manufacturing industry. Conclusions Results will provide both epidemiological and mechanistic understanding of the prevalence and incidence of epoxy skin-sensitisation in the industry. Proposed intervention trials will provide experimental evidence for the effectiveness of co-created preventive measures. Overall, EU INTERCAMBIO has the potential to improve the health and well-being of workers in an industry that is critical to the success of the European Green Deal.