Health Impact Assessments and Monitoring Atmospheric Effects

Understanding the health impacts of theatrical fog and haze is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved in a production. Health impact assessments (HIAs) and continuous monitoring play a vital role in identifying potential risks, implementing safety measures, and maintaining a safe environment during performances and rehearsals. This section explores the various health effects associated with exposure to fog and haze, the importance of conducting health impact assessments, and the strategies for effective monitoring and mitigation.

Health Effects of Fog and Haze Exposure

Exposure to artificial fog and haze can lead to a range of health effects, which can vary depending on the duration and concentration of exposure, the type of chemicals used, and individual sensitivities. The primary health concerns associated with these atmospheric effects include:

1. Respiratory Irritation and Issues:

• Short-Term Effects: Most individuals may experience mild irritation of the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation, and a dry or scratchy throat. These effects are usually temporary and subside once exposure is reduced (Aura Health and Safety Corporation, 2018).
• Long-Term Effects: Prolonged or repeated exposure to high concentrations of fog or haze particles can exacerbate respiratory conditions, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or bronchitis. Chronic exposure may lead to more severe respiratory issues, including reduced lung function and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections (Colden-Phylmar, 2018).

1. Eye and Skin Irritation:

• Eye Irritation: Fog and haze particles can cause irritation of the eyes, resulting in redness, itching, and watering. This is particularly noticeable in individuals with sensitive eyes or those who wear contact lenses (Safety Bulletin #10, 2019).
• Skin Irritation: While less common, some individuals may experience skin irritation or dryness due to prolonged exposure to certain chemicals used in fog and haze fluids.

1. Allergic Reactions:

• Certain chemicals used in fog and haze fluids can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, and exacerbation of asthma symptoms (Aura Health and Safety Corporation, 2018).

1. Potential for Chemical Exposure:

• Decomposition Products: When fog and haze fluids are overheated, they can decompose into harmful byproducts such as formaldehyde, acrolein, and acetaldehyde. These substances are known irritants and can pose significant health risks if present in high concentrations (ANSI E1.5-2009, 2014).
• Toxicity Levels: Standards like ANSI E1.5-2009 (R2014) set permissible exposure limits (PELs) for these decomposition products to minimize health risks. Adhering to these limits is essential to ensure the safety of all individuals in the production environment.

Conducting Health Impact Assessments (HIAs)

Health Impact Assessments are systematic processes used to evaluate the potential health effects of a project, policy, or activity—in this case, the use of fog and haze in theatrical productions. Conducting an HIA involves several key steps:

1. Screening:

• Determine whether an HIA is necessary based on the scale and nature of the production. Productions with extensive use of fog and haze or those involving vulnerable populations (e.g., children, elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions) should prioritize conducting an HIA.

1. Scoping:

• Identify the key health issues and populations affected by the use of fog and haze. This includes assessing the types of chemicals used, the methods of application, and the potential exposure levels.

1. Assessment:

• Evaluate the existing evidence on the health impacts of the specific fog and haze fluids being used. This involves reviewing scientific studies, health assessments (e.g., Aura Health and Safety Corporation, 2018), and reports (e.g., Colden-Phylmar, 2018).

1. Recommendations:

• Develop strategies to mitigate identified health risks. Recommendations may include selecting less hazardous chemicals, implementing stricter ventilation measures, and providing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

1. Reporting and Monitoring:

• Document the findings and recommendations of the HIA and integrate them into the production’s health and safety plan. Continuous monitoring should be conducted to ensure that implemented measures are effective.

Monitoring and Mitigation Strategies

Effective monitoring and mitigation are essential to minimize health risks associated with fog and haze exposure. The following strategies are recommended based on the reviewed documents:

1. Air Quality Monitoring:

• Utilize calibrated aerosol monitors, such as the Thermo Scientific PDR-1000AN, to continuously measure the concentration of fog and haze particles in the air. Regular calibration of these devices, as outlined in Ramboll’s (2023) report, ensures accurate readings and effective monitoring (Ramboll, 2023).
• Implement real-time monitoring systems that alert technicians when particle concentrations approach or exceed safe levels, allowing for immediate corrective actions.

1. Ventilation Control:

• Ensure that rehearsal and performance spaces are well-ventilated to disperse fog and haze particles. This can be achieved through natural ventilation (opening windows and doors) or mechanical ventilation systems (fans and air purifiers) (Safety Bulletin #10, 2019).
• Regularly assess and adjust ventilation systems to maintain optimal air quality, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.

1. Limiting Exposure Time:

• Schedule regular breaks for performers and crew to reduce cumulative exposure to fog and haze. Implementing a rotation system can help minimize the time each individual spends in high-exposure environments (Safety Bulletin #10 Addendum A, 2019).

1. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Provide appropriate PPE, such as masks or respirators, for individuals who may be exposed to high concentrations of fog or haze particles. This is particularly important for technicians operating fog and haze machines and for performers with respiratory sensitivities (ANSI E1.40-2016, 2016).

1. Training and Education:

• Conduct regular training sessions for all personnel involved in the production on the safe use of fog and haze machines, potential health risks, and emergency procedures. Educated personnel are better equipped to recognize symptoms of overexposure and take appropriate action (Safety Bulletin #10, 2019).

1. Health Monitoring:

• Implement health monitoring protocols for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or those who report symptoms related to fog and haze exposure. Regular health check-ups can help identify and address any adverse effects early on (Aura Health and Safety Corporation, 2018).

Case Studies and Findings

Reviewing case studies and findings from health impact assessments provides valuable insights into the real-world implications of fog and haze use in productions:

• Aura Health and Safety Corporation (2018): Their assessment highlighted that while most individuals tolerate short-term exposure well, those with respiratory conditions experienced significant discomfort and required accommodations to reduce exposure.
• Colden-Phylmar (2018): This report emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring and the implementation of safety measures to prevent long-term health effects, particularly in large-scale productions with extensive use of atmospheric effects.

Conclusion

Health impact assessments and diligent monitoring are critical components of safe theatrical and cinematic productions involving fog and haze. By understanding the potential health effects, conducting thorough assessments, and implementing robust monitoring and mitigation strategies, producers can create visually stunning effects while safeguarding the health and well-being of performers, crew, and audiences.

References

• ANSI E1.5-2009 (R2014). (2014). Theatrical fog made with aqueous solutions of di- and trihydric alcohols. PLASA North America.
• ANSI E1.40-2016. (2016). Recommendations for the planning of theatrical dust effects. Entertainment Services and Technology Association.
• Aura Health and Safety Corporation. (2018). Health impact assessment of theatrical fog and haze exposure.
• Colden-Phylmar. (2018). Theatrical fog review final report for CSATF.
• Ramboll. (2023). Theatrical smoke, fog, and haze testing: Calibration factors.
• Safety Bulletin #10. (2019). Guidelines regarding the use of artificially created atmospheric fog and haze. Industry-Wide Labor-Management Safety Committee.
• Safety Bulletin #10 Addendum A. (2019). Atmospheric fog & haze – Technical awareness sheet. Industry-Wide Labor-Management Safety Committee.