VALIDATION OF THE WORKPLACE EXPOSURE ASSESSMENT EXPERT-SYSTEM (WORKBOOK)

A validation study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy, reliability , and effectiveness of the workplace exposure assessment expert system WORKBOOK (Version 1.0), a software system for evaluating and controll ing occupational health risks. The application was developed to assist qualified people in performing exposure assessments under the guidanc e of professional hygienists. Fifty assessments were conducted, repres enting a wide variety of operations and involving technical staff al f ive U.S. and international facilities that conduct pharmaceutical rese arch and development, manufacture bulk drug substances and dosage prod ucts, and produce medical devices. Important issues examined by the st udy include (1) assessing the competency and comprehension of users, ( 2) implementing exposure assessments, (3) era mining the accuracy and reliability of WORKBOOK's conclusions and recommendations, (4) improvi ng the exposure assessment model and software, and (5) providing train ing and support services. Despite its original intention, WORKBOOK is a system for professional hygienists, rather than other technical prof essionals. Users need education and training as a professional hygieni st, with al least 3 to 5 years of field experience. Although the expos ure assessment model is valid and useful, its hygiene terminology and software features should be simplified and automated to make it more u seful to technical professionals, Practical experiences from the valid ation study are directing WORKBOOK's future development. However, empl oyee training and technical support a re essential to promote effectiv e exposure assessment activities. Management support is required in th e United States to shift from the traditional regulatory paradigm of e xposure monitoring to more systematic, comprehensive exposure assessme nt strategies.