By Dr. S Dee Jepsen, State Leader of the OSU Extension Agricultural Safety & Health Program
As many farmers know, grain dust contains more than meets the eye. Moreover, the dust you inhale may also contain microbes, insects, and additional plant fodder. All of which are affected by temperature and humidity fluctuations. It is important to better understand what is in your grain dust, since many biological contaminants have been linked to health conditions like asthma and chronic bronchitis. That is why the OSU Extension Agricultural Safety & Health Program wants to sample your grain dust during a loud out period. See below for study details:
- We know your schedule is ever-changing, that’s why students will be available both weekdays/nights and weekends for sampling. A half day notice will suffice to allow for travel time
- Samples may be taken of multiple bins, storing different grains
- No preparation is needed for sampling!
- Sampling will not interfere with the load-out process.
- Measurements will only be taken during the unloading process.
- You will receive a dust analysis report ~1 week later showing the amount of Total Dust and Respirable Dust. Results are anonymous, and will not be shared with any other agencies.
- There is no fee for this service, and no incentives to participate, besides contributing to our understanding of dust level exposure. N-95 respirators are available upon request.
If you are interested in participating, please contact Dee Jepsen by phone at 614-292-6008 or by e-mail at jepsen.4@osu.edu.