Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry Dashboards
Data Metrics & Results
BAWR Reporting Sites and Target Population
Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry (BAWR) Reporting Organizations are owned by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)-operated facilities with current workers who:
- Have been exposed, or have had the potential for exposure, to airborne concentrations of beryllium due to their work at the present or a previous DOE site;
- Self-identify and indicate a history of possible exposure; or
- Exhibit symptoms of beryllium exposure, or are receiving medical removal protection benefits.
The site’s Chronic Beryllium Disease Prevention Program (CBDPP) may also include other workers in the BAWR reporting for their site, as appropriate. Subcontractors who are not included under the main site’s CBDPP must have their own CBDPP and report data separately. The 10 CFR 850 (view report) contains further information on beryllium and beryllium-associated workers, and which organizations should have CBDPPs.
Through the 2021 calendar year, the BAWR received data from the following 27 DOE-affiliated reporting organizations:
- Ames Laboratory (AMES)
- Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)
- Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL)
- DOE Oak Ridge Office (DOE-ORO)
- East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP)
- Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermi)
- Golden SVCS, LLC (GSVCS)
- Hanford Site (HAN)
- Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
- Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC)
- Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory (KAPL)
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL)
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL)
- LLNL Clean Harbors Environmental Services (LLNL CHES)
- LLNL North Wind (LLNL NW)
- Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL)
- LANL N3B (LANL N3B)
- Nevada National Security Site (NNSS)
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)
- Paducah Site (PADUCAH)
- Pantex Plant (PTX)
- Sandia National Laboratories (SNL)
- Savannah River Site (SRS)
- SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (SLAC)
- Y-12 Atkins Nuclear Secured (Y-12 ANS)
- Y-12 National Security Complex (Y‑12)
All 27 active reporting organizations collected health data through the operation of their medical surveillance programs.
Twenty-five (25) organizations conducted exposure sampling through their industrial hygiene programs. Golden SVCS, LLC (GSVCS) and DOE Oak Ridge Operations (DOE-ORO) do not submit exposure sampling data since their workers are in the BAWR due to prior work at another DOE site and have no potential for exposure.
There are 9 reporting organizations that previously participated in the program, but due to contract changes or work completion, no longer submit data. The previously submitted data from these organizations, referred to as inactive reporting organizations, remain in the BAWR.
The inactive reporting organizations are:
- Advanced Mixed Waste Treatment Project (AMWTP)
- LLNL Boston University (LLNL BU)
- LLNL Envirocon, Inc. (LLNL ENVC)
- National Strategic Protective Services, LLC for ETTP and ORNL (NSPS)
- Rocky Flats Closure Project (RF)
- Southwestern Power Administration (SWPA)
- Wackenhut Security Services, Inc. for ETTP, ORNL, and Y-12 (WSI)
- Y-12 Navarro Research and Engineering (Y-12 NRE)
- Y-12 URS Corporation (Y-12 URS)
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Geographical Locations for 27 Active BAWR Reporting Organizations (2021)
Select a location indicator (blue circle) to see additional information for the specific reporting organization.
Click here for List of Acronyms
This map shows the geographical locations of the 27 DOE-affiliated actively reporting organizations within the continental US.
Ames Laboratory (AMES)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 48 48 2 0 12 Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 425 193 3 0 23 Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 82 56 1 0 48 Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermi)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 29 21 0 0 23 Richland Area Reporting Locations
Hanford Site (HAN)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 19,241 11,014 123 34 2,225 Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 444 405 10 0 56 Idaho National Laboratory (INL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 1,516 502 3 0 371 Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory (KAPL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 78 39 0 0 39 Los Alamos Area Reporting Locations
Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 5,394 3,883 33 8 951 LANL N3B Project (LANL N3B)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 107 97 0 0 19 Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 37 26 2 0 8 Livermore Area Reporting Locations
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 3,027 1,979 72 4 328 LLNL Clean Harbors Environmental Services (LLNL CHES)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 49 38 0 0 1 LLNL North Wind (LLNL NW)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 26 26 0 0 0 Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 1,399 1,299 41 14 190 Nevada National Security Site (NNSS)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 1,398 1,243 23 6 297 Oak Ridge Area Reporting Locations
DOE Oak Ridge Office (DOE-ORO)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 98 99 1 0 0 East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 1,377 1,084 6 4 496 Golden SVCS, LLC (GSVCS)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 7 6 1 0 0 Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 1,065 989 21 0 318 Y-12 National Security Complex (Y-12)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 3,734 3,060 146 62 1,414 Y-12 Atkins Nuclear Secured (Y-12 ANS)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 47 46 0 0 29 Paducah Site (PADUCAH)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 357 279 6 0 90 Pantex Plant (PTX)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 2,263 2,123 27 15 592 Sandia National Laboratories (SNL)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 669 663 1 1 156 Savannah River Site (SRS)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 1,921 874 22 6 206 SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (SLAC)
Number of Workers: Roster BeLPT Tested Be Sensitized CBD Exposure Monitored 88 49 0 1 26 -
Data Coordinator Changes by Reporting Organization (2014-2021)
Each reporting organization designates a data coordinator who is responsible for coordinating activities at the site related to data collection, timely submittal of data, and responding to inquiries from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Program Manager and the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Data Center as outlined in the DOE technical standard, DOE-STD-1187-2019. The following table shows that there were 12 data coordinator changes in Calendar Year 2021.
Year No. (%) of Reporting Organizations Total Data Coordinator Changes Organizations with ≥2 Data Coordinator Changes in Same Year 2014 10 (37%) 15 5 2015 6 (22%) 9 3 2016 6 (22%) 7 1 2017 5 (19%) 7 2 2018 7 (27%) 9 2 2019 11 (41%) 12 0 2020 4 (15%) 5 1 2021 11 (41%) 12 1 Changes in data coordinators often result in the need for additional training and subsequent delays in data submissions. Therefore, significant data coordinator turnover can impact the timely acquisition of data and subsequent reporting of results.
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Workers reported to the BAWR by Reporting Organization (2002-2021) *
This figure shows the cumulative numbers of beryllium-associated workers reported to the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry (BAWR) by reporting organization. Through Calendar Year 2021 (CY2021), there were 44,926 workers in the cumulative roster as compared to 41,922 workers in the cumulative roster through CY2020, for an increase of 3,004 workers. Hanford site has 19,241 workers in the roster, constituting the largest number (46%) in the cumulative roster.
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the Registry.
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Gender and Age Distribution for Workers (2002-2021) *
Workers are predominantly male (approximately 82%) and greater than 50 years old (54%). This chart excludes 17 workers (<0.1%) for whom demographic data were not available.
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the Registry.
Health Monitoring Results
Sites’ health clinics collect medical surveillance data on workers identified by their beryllium rosters. These data sets contain beryllium-related health monitoring information and the results of any specialized medical testing. The Site Occupational Medical Director determines the content and frequency of surveillance evaluations and tests based on policies, standards, and the worker’s health and work history. The most vital information collected and reported on an annual basis are the number of workers monitored for beryllium sensitization (BeS) using the beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT), the number of new BeS cases identified, and the number of new cases of chronic beryllium disease (CBD).
Some workers in the roster may decline testing for sensitizations. As a result, no records will be available for individuals who refuse this diagnostic evaluation. Some workers may have testing done independently (for example, as part of a former worker program), and in these cases results may be unavailable for Registry reporting unless the worker releases their evaluation report, and it becomes part of the organization’s electronic medical records. Also, advanced medical testing results when workers are referred (after findings suggestive of possible CBD) to a pulmonary medicine or other specialized clinic for follow-up diagnosis and care may not be reported and/or can be difficult to collect.
Sensitization and CBD Screening
The cumulative number of workers with BeLPT screening results submitted to the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry (BAWR) through Calendar Year 2021 (CY2021) was 30,141. When compared with the 29,688 workers screened through CY2020, this corresponds to an additional 453 workers tested.
There was a total of 544 sensitized workers included in the BAWR, and medical staff diagnosed 155 as having CBD through CY2021. BeS and CBD are mutually exclusive categories, i.e., if a person who is BeS receives a CBD diagnosis, the person’s diagnosis moves to the CBD category and is no longer counted in the BeS category.
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Number and Proportion of Workers undergoing BeLPT Testing and Diagnosed with BeS or Diagnosed with CBD by Reporting Organization (n=30,141) (2002–2021) *
Reporting Organization No. Workers with BeLPT Results No. Sensitized Workers No. Workers with CBD HAN 11,014 123 (1.1%) 34 (0.3%) LANL 3,883 33 (0.8%) 8 (0.2%) Y-12 3,060 146 (4.8%) 62 (2.0%) PTX 2,123 27 (1.3%) 15 (0.7%) LLNL 1,979 72 (3.6%) 4 (0.2%) KCNSC 1,299 41 (3.2%) 14 (1.1%) NNSS 1,243 23 (1.9%) 6 (0.5%) ETTP 1,084 6 (0.6%) 4 (0.4%) ORNL 989 21 (2.1%) 0 (0.0%) SRS 874 22 (2.5%) 6 (0.7%) SNL 663 1 (0.2%) 1 (0.1%) INL 502 3 (0.6%) 0 (0.0%) PNNL 405 10 (2.5%) 0 (0.0%) PADUCAH 279 6 (2.2%) 0 (0.0%) ANL 193 3 (1.6%) 0 (0.0%) DOE-ORO 99 1 (1.0%) 0 (0.0%) LANL N3B 97 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%) BNL 56 1 (1.8%) 0 (0.0%) SLAC 49 0 (0.0%) 1 (2%) AMES 48 2 (4.2%) 0 (0.0%) Y-12 ANS 46 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%) KAPL 39 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%) LLNL CHES 38 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%) LBNL 26 2 (7.7%) 0 (0.0%) LLNL NW 26 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%) Fermi 21 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%) GSVCS 6 1 (16.7%) 0 (0.0%) Totals 30,141 544 (1.7%) 155 (0.5%) Click here for List of Acronyms
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry.
This table provides the numbers of beryllium-associated workers with Beryllium Lymphocyte Proliferation Testing (BeLPT) test results submitted to the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry each year, and the total number of beryllium-sensitized (BeS) workers increased by 2 through Calendar Year 2021 (CY2021) (544 total BeS cases reported). The newly reported BeS cases were from 2 reporting organizations (1 at HAN and 1 at GSVCS). One case reported the date of sensitization in CY2020 and the second case was reported in CY2021.
Twenty (20) of the reporting organizations have BeS workers and 11 have workers who have been diagnosed with chronic beryllium disease (CBD).
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Number and Percent Proportion of Workers Undergoing BeLPT Testing, and Yielding Abnormal BeS or CBD Results (n=44,926) (2002–2021) *
This figure depicts the numbers and percentages across the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) complex of workers screened using the BeLPT and among those workers having abnormal results, how many are sensitized or have developed CBD. Comparison with previous years’ reports show that these DOE-wide percentage distributions have remained consistent.
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry.
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Percent Proportion of Workers Diagnosed as BeS by Reporting Organization (n=544) (2002-2021) *
This figure presents the distribution in percent of beryllium sensitization (BeS) cases by reporting organization. Of the 20 reporting organizations, about 50% of total BeS cases are associated with the Y-12 and HAN sites.
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry.
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Percent Proportion of Workers Diagnosed as CBD by Reporting Organization (n=155) (2002–2021) *
This figure presents the distribution in percent for the 11 reporting organizations with workers diagnosed with chronic beryllium disease (CBD). Approximately 62% of total CBD cases are associated with the Y-12 and HAN sites.
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry.
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Number and Percent of Workers Categorized by Number of Years Following Hire Date, Undergoing BeLPT and Diagnosed with BeS or Diagnosed with CBD (n=44,926) (2002–2021) *
This figure shows the number of beryllium-associated workers categorized by years following first hire, undergoing Beryllium Lymphocyte Proliferation Testing (BeLPT) tests. This includes roster total, those screened, and those with beryllium sensitization (BeS) or chronic beryllium disease (CBD).
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry.
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Number of Workers Undergoing BeLPT and Diagnosed with BeS or Diagnosed with CBD (n=30,431) (2002–2021) *
This table provides the numbers of beryllium-associated workers with Beryllium Lymphocyte Proliferation Testing (BeLPT) test results submitted to the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry each year, and the year of first positive or abnormal BeLPT result for those who were beryllium-sensitized (BeS) or diagnosed as having chronic beryllium disease (CBD). First positive or abnormal BeLPT result is an important medical surveillance sentinel, resulting in earlier or more frequent repeat testing, hence, earlier diagnosis, earlier work restrictions, and more successful treatment. It is also a criterion for eligibility for compensation and payment of medical expenses under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA). Two (2) abnormal BeLPT results or 1 abnormal and 2 borderline BeLPT results are required to categorize a worker as BeS. Since a worker may choose not to have repeat BeLPT measurements, may change work and have long lags between measurements, or may not test abnormal for a period of time, the year of first BeLPT provides a more reliable metric than the year a worker becomes BeS.
Year of BeLPT Result No. Workers Tested No. Sensitized Workers No. Workers with CBD <2000 708 34 11 2000 1,629 29 17 2001 3,236 43 17 2002 3,968 42 16 2003 3,968 12 6 2004 3,814 14 3 2005 5,115 28 6 2006 4,860 46 9 2007 4,578 49 5 2008 5,072 30 7 2009 6,219 52 2 2010 6,892 36 2 2011 7,920 23 0 2012 6,172 5 0 2013 5,574 8 0 2014 6,008 10 1 2015 6,049 13 0 2016 6,060 2 0 2017 6,683 11 0 2018 6,768 11 2 2019 7,044 6 0 2020 7,280 10 0 2021 7,982 2 0 Year Not Reported 0 28 51 * The number of "Workers Tested" includes all testing with results of Normal, Negative, Borderline, Positive, Abnormal, and Unsatisfactory. Workers tested periodically are included in each year they were tested. Data capture includes prior to the year 2002.
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Number and Percent Proportion of Workers with Abnormal BeLPT Results BeS or CBD Results (n=30,431) (2002–2021) *
The yearly average for workers developing sensitization, whose first abnormal Beryllium Lymphocyte Proliferation Test (BeLPT) results were between Calendar Year 2001 (CY2001) and CY2010, was 35. This rate dropped to an average of 7.8 from CY2012 to CY2021. These results provide evidence that programs are serving to improve worker protection and reduce the risk of chronic beryllium disease (CBD).
This table lists beryllium-sensitized (BeS), or CBD diagnosed workers, through CY2021 grouped by their work history activity, which is a high‑level rollup of job function. Based on the data submitted through CY2021 and as presented in the table, the majority of both reported BeS (37%) and CBD cases (39%) occurred among the broad occupational groups of Crafts and Line Operators.
Work History Activity Workers with BeLPT Results (n=30,431) No. Sensitized Workers (n=544) Beryllium Sensitization (%) No. Workers with CBD (n=155) Chronic Beryllium Disease (%) Management 1,906 46 (1.9%) 8% 10 (0.4%) 6% Administrative Support 1,121 33 (2.6%) 6% 11 (0.9%) 7% In-House Professionals 1,907 43 (1.9%) 8% 14 (0.6%) 9% Field Professional 2,582 49 (1.4%) 9% 8 (0.2%) 5% Technical Support 4,117 73 (1.5%) 13% 15 (0.3%) 10% Service 1,676 32 (2.0%) 6% 12 (0.7%) 8% Security and Fire 1,600 26 (1.4%) 5% 9 (0.5%) 6% Crafts 5,382 106 (1.7%) 20% 37 (0.6%) 24% Line Operators 3,116 90 (2.2%) 17% 23 (0.6%) 15% Guests 88 1 (0.7%) <1% 0 (0.0%) 0% Unknown 749 14 (1.2%) 3% 11 (0.8%) 7% Not Reported 6,187 30 (1.7%) 6% 5 (0.2%) 3% Totals 30,431 544 (1.7%) - 155 (0.5%) - Click here for List of Acronyms
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the Registry.
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Comparison of the Number and Percent Proportion of Workers Undergoing BeLPT to the Number of Workers with BeLPT Results by Reporting Organization (n=6,888) (2021)
This figure compares the percent of Beryllium Lymphocyte Proliferation Testing (BeLPT) tests conducted to the number of workers tested for each reporting organization in 2021. Workers may be BeLPT tested multiple times in a year if they have abnormal or borderline results. Therefore, the number of BeLPT tests conducted are higher than the number of workers tested.
Exposure Monitoring Results
The Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry receives beryllium work history and exposure data. The submission contains information about all activities with the potential for beryllium exposure including where the beryllium-associated worker currently works or previously worked, and the exposures associated with those activities. Reporting organization staff collect retrospective work history information through questionnaires and interviews with the worker or from records if accessible. This information includes location, organization, and job title for workers who work directly with beryllium, work in areas of potential beryllium exposure even if not working directly with beryllium, and activities with potential casual exposure to beryllium, such as working near an area where others are working directly with beryllium.
Exposure Monitoring Trends - Workers
The cumulative number of workers monitored through Calendar Year 2021 (CY2021) was 7,918 compared to 7,545 workers monitored through CY2020 as reported in the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry 2020 Dashboard. This equates to an increase of 373 workers monitored for exposure to beryllium through CY2021.
Fifteen (15) reporting organizations provided exposure monitoring results with monitoring dates in CY2021. Organization-specific totals for a given year may change from totals in previous annual reports due to late reporting and/or corrections.
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Number and Percent of Workers Monitored by Reporting Organization (unique workers n=3,911) (2012–2021) *
Reporting Organization 2012
n=8262013
n=7872014
n=8332015
n=7122016
n=6962017
n=7312018
n=6822019
n=7302020
n=7042021
n=734AMES - - 2 (0.2%) - - - - 5 (0.7%) - - ANL - - - - - - - - - - BNL 18 (2.2%) - 2 (0.2%) 3 (0.4%) 4 (0.6%) 4 (0.5%) 1 (0.1%) - - - ETTP 3 (0.4%) 9 (1.1%) 2 (0.2%) - 2 (0.3%) - - 8 (1.1%) 85 (12.1%) 151 (20.6%) Fermi - - 1 (0.1%) - - - - - - - GSVCS - - - - - - - - - - HAN 249 (30.1%) 287 (36.5%) 325 (39%) 290 (40.7%) 265 (38.1%) 359 (49.1%) 244 (35.8%) 301 (41.2%) 211 (30%) 202 (27.5%) INL 5 (0.6%) 42 (5.3%) 45 (5.4%) 55 (7.7%) 45 (6.5%) 31 (4.2%) 62 (9.1%) 43 (5.9%) 36 (5.1%) 1 (0.1%) KAPL 4 (0.5%) 3 (0.4%) 2 (0.2%) - - - - - 2 (0.3%) - KCNSC 43 (5.2%) 27 (3.4%) 18 (2.2%) 9 (1.3%) 9 (1.3%) 7 (1%) 3 (0.4%) 2 (0.3%) 4 (0.6%) 2 (0.3%) LANL 45 (5.4%) 34 (4.3%) 87 (10.4%) 32 (4.5%) 64 (9.2%) 49 (6.7%) 83 (12.2%) 97 (13.3%) 89 (12.6%) 47 (6.4%) LANL N3B - - - - - - - 10 (1.4%) 7 (1%) 2 (0.3%) LBNL - 1 (0.1%) 3 (0.4%) - - - - - - - LLNL 59 (7.1%) 34 (4.3%) 25 (3%) 32 (4.5%) 21 (3%) 19 (2.6%) 16 (2.3%) 16 (2.2%) 3 (0.4%) 6 (0.8%) NNSS 22 (2.7%) 14 (1.8%) 17 (2%) 5 (0.7%) 5 (0.7%) 1 (0.1%) 4 (0.6%) 15 (2.1%) - - ORNL 46 (5.6%) 61 (7.8%) 24 (2.9%) 20 (2.8%) 15 (2.2%) 11 (1.5%) 7 (1%) 10 (1.4%) 14 (2%) 28 (3.8%) PADUCAH 5 (0.6%) 4 (0.5%) 5 (0.6%) - - 13 (1.8%) 15 (2.2%) 5 (0.7%) 12 (1.7%) 6 (0.8%) PNNL - 1 (0.1%) 19 (2.3%) 7 (1%) 10 (1.4%) 8 (1.1%) 19 (2.8%) 9 (1.2%) 4 (0.5%) PTX 51 (6.2%) 23 (2.9%) 21 (2.5%) 20 (2.8%) 52 (7.5%) 27 (3.7%) 34 (5%) 27 (3.7%) 43 (6.1%) 26 (3.5%) SNL 17 (2.1%) 3 (0.4%) 5 (0.6%) 16 (2.2%) 10 (1.4%) 8 (1.1%) 3 (0.4%) 9 (1.2%) 7 (1%) 6 (0.8%) SRS 10 (1.2%) 1 (0.1%) 5 (0.6%) 2 (0.3%) 3 (0.4%) 6 (0.8%) 4 (0.6%) 3 (0.4%) 6 (0.9%) 4 (0.5%) Y-12 245 (29.7%) 238 (30.2%) 221 (26.5%) 206 (28.9%) 181 (26%) 178 (24.4%) 174 (25.5%) 156 (21.4%) 166 (23.6%) 233 (31.7%) Y-12 ANS - - - 15 (2.1%) 10 (1.4%) 10 (1.4%) 13 (1.9%) 14 (1.9%) 19 (2.7%) 16 (2.2%) Y-12 NRE 4 (0.5%) 5 (0.6%) 4 (0.5%) - - - - - - - Totals 826 (100%) 787 (100%) 833 (100%) 712 (100%) 696 (100%) 731 (100%) 682 (100%) 730 (100%) 704 (100%) 734 (100%) Click here for List of Acronyms
* Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the Registry
An industrial hygienist monitored exposure for workers by reporting organization at least once in each year for the past 10 years (i.e., between 2012 and 2021).
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Number and Percent Proportion of Workers Undergoing Beryllium Exposure Monitoring by Reporting Organization (n=7,918) (2002-2021) *
This figure displays the cumulative 7,918 beryllium-associated workers monitored for beryllium exposure in Calendar Years 2002 - 2021 by reporting organization.
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry.
Exposure Monitoring Trends - Samples
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Number and Percent Proportion of Exposure Sample Results by Year (N=41,995) (2012–2021) *
The numbers of exposure sampling results in the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry (BAWR) by year monitored for each of the past 10 years are shown in the line chart.
As can be seen, the numbers have steadily declined in recent years. The reporting organizations that collected and submitted exposure monitoring sample data show a downward trend which, in some cases, impact the analysis and interpretation of results in BAWR. The small sample size reduces accuracy and causes higher variability in the statistical models used for the BAWR analyses. In Calendar Year 2021, there was a slight increase in the number of exposure records submitted. It remains to be seen whether this is year to year variable or an upwards trend.
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Comparison of the Number and Percent Proportion of Exposure Samples to Workers with Exposure Sampling Results by Reporting Organizations (n=3,396) (2021)
This graphic illustrates the distribution of exposure samples and workers monitored across 15 reporting organizations during 2021. Similar to the beryllium screening results, most workers monitored for beryllium exposure have multiple exposure measurements throughout the year. The frequency of monitoring is dependent on the worker’s specific type of work and their employer’s monitoring schemes.
Reporting organizations submitted a total of 116,761 exposure measurements to the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry (BAWR) through Calendar Year 2021 (CY2021). This equates to an additional 3,396 exposure sampling results collected and submitted to the 113,505 total through CY2020. Of these, 211 sampling results submitted to BAWR in CY2021 were sampling data for years prior to CY2021. Broken down further, 1 record was for CY2018 and the remaining records (210) were for CY2020.
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Number and Percent Proportion of Non-Detectable Results Exposure Measurements, Detectable Exposure Measurement Results and Exposure Measurement Status Not Reported (N=116,761) (2002–2021) *
Of the 116,761 exposure monitoring records submitted to the Registry through Calendar Year 2021 (CY2021), 91.1% have “non-detectable” results, indicating that the sample analysis results were less than the laboratory’s reporting limit. The reporting limit can vary from sample to sample because of differing flow rates of the sampling equipment used and because of the presence of other materials on the sample that can interfere with the analysis. Reporting limits typically vary from 0.01 to 0.05 µg/m3, which is one-twentieth to one-quarter of the action level of 0.2 µg/m3.
In comparison, 113,505 cumulative exposure monitoring results were submitted through CY2020, for an increase through CY2021 of 3,256 records (including those monitoring dates in CY2020 and earlier). This 3,256 increase in sampling results is higher than the 2,600 increase in records between CY2019 and CY2020 and higher than the 3,048 increase in records submitted between CY2018 and CY2019.
*Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry.
**Non-detectable indicates that analysis results were reported as less than the laboratory's reporting limit.
Trends in Exposure Levels
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Percent of 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Year (2012–2021) *
Mouse over or click a data point to view additional information.
* Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry. Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits
This figure shows the percent of DOE-wide 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) personal exposure monitoring results that exceeded the action level of 0.2 μg/m3 in each of the 10 years from Calendar Year 2012 (CY2012) to CY2021.
Summary Statistics for 2012–2021 8-Hour Time Weighted Average Exposure Monitoring Results Year 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 10-year Summary Number of reported monitoring results 6,042 (13.9%) 5,220 (12%) 5,336 (12.3%) 5,065 (11.6%) 4,461 (10.3%) 3,405 (7.8%) 3,159 (7.3%) 2,789 (6.4%) 2,495 (5.9%) 4,534 (10.7%) 42,506 (100%) Number of detected values 302 (16.5%) 215 (11.8%) 175 (9.6%) 154 (8.4%) 241 (13.2%) 175 (9.6%) 240 (13.1%) 168 (9.2%) 69 (3.8%) 69 (3.8%) 1,808 (100%) Percent non-detects 95.0 95.9 96.7 97 94.6 94.9 92.4 94 97.2 98.5 95.7 Number of individuals monitored 822 (19.8%) 782 (18.8%) 823 (19.8%) 711 (17.1%) 694 (16.7%) 730 (17.6%) 683 (16.4%) 801 (19.3%) 691 (17.6%) 844 (21.5%) 3,929 (100%) Arithmetic mean (EX) (µg/m3) 0.032 0.004 0.002 0.014 0.016 0.842 0.369 0.166 0.022 0.389 0.029 Lower confidence limit of EX (µg/m3) 0.015 0.003 0.002 0.005 0.008 0.128 0.101 0.039 0.003 0.010 0.021 Upper confidence limit of EX (µg/m3) 0.068 0.006 0.003 0.039 0.031 5.521 1.353 0.712 0.154 14.428 0.040 Observed 95th percentile of data (µg/m3) 0.007 0.005 0.004 0.004 0.005 0.006 0.020 0.011 0.001 <0.1 0.005 95% upper tolerance limit of the 95th percentile (µg/m3) 0.017 0.015 0.017 0.017 0.020 0.020 0.030 0.026 0.011 0.011 0.017 Largest value (µg/m3) 4.013 0.804 0.876 1.847 8.865 87.419 16.712 23.084 17.340 6.609 87.419 Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F) 0.6 0.2 0.1 0.4 0.6 1.0 1.4 0.9 0.3 0.3 0.5 Lower confidence limit for F 0.5 0.2 0.1 0.3 0.5 0.8 1.2 0.7 0.2 0.2 0.5 Upper confidence limit for F 0.8 0.3 0.2 0.5 0.8 1.3 1.7 1.2 0.5 0.4 0.6 *Many individuals were monitored in more than 1 year. The total number of individuals measured at least once in the 10-year period from CY2012 through CY2021 is 3,911. Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the CY2002 start date of the registry. Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits.
The detailed data presented in the table above provide additional summary statistics for the DOE-wide 8-hour TWA results for each of the past 10 years. The very high percentage of non-detected results from workplaces compliant with the 0.2 µg/m3 action level points to the need to develop more sensitive exposure monitoring methods to support estimates of individuals’ actual exposure levels.
These statistical methods accommodate the high percentage of non-detect results (left censored) in these data sets. These analyses exclude non-detected values greater than 0.2 µg/m3. For details, see “Statistical Methods and Software for the Analysis of Occupational Exposure Data with Non-Detectable Values” Frome EL and Wambach PF, ORNL/TM-2005/52.
Totals for an individual year may vary from previous reports due to late reporting and/or corrections. The data reported in the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry indicate that the chronic beryllium disease prevention programs operated at DOE sites have continued to maintain a high level of compliance with the 10 CFR 850 action level of 0.2 µg/m3 over the past 10 years.
2012
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.8
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.6
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.5
2013
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.2
2014
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.2
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.1
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.1
2015
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.4
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.3
2016
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.8
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.6
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.5
2017
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.0
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.8
2018
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.7
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.4
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.2
2019
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.2
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.9
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.7
2020
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.4
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.3
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.2
2021
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.4
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.3
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.2
Exceedances Observed through 2021
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Percent of 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Work History Activity (2002-2021) *
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* Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry. Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits
The graphic shows the percent of 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) exposure monitoring results that exceed the action level, grouped by work activity for the cumulative data through 2021. The detailed data in the table provide additional summary statistics for the composite 8-hour TWA results by work activity.
For the cumulative data, the highest percentage of action level exceedances by work history activity is among workers where the work activity is unknown or not reported.
Summary Statistics for 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) Exceeding Action Level 0.2 μg/m3 by Work History Activity (2002-2021)* Work History Activity Admin. Craft Field Prof. Guest In-house Prof. Line Operator Management Security & Fire Service Tech Support Not Reported Total No. reported monitoring results 1,398 (1.2%) 52,361 (46.1%) 6,255 (5.5%) 34 (0%) 4,586 (4%) 12,008 (10.6%) 5,396 (4.7%) 391 (0.3%) 9,830 (8.7%) 13,440 (11.8%) 7,941 (7%) 113,633 (100%) No. detected values 56 (0.6%) 2,583 (27.2%) 586 (6.2%) 8 (0.1%) 511 (5.4%) 1,155 (12.2%) 514 (5.4%) 18 (0.2%) 634 (6.7%) 1,641 (17.3%) 1,786 (18.8%) 9,491 (100%) % non-detects 96 95.1 90.6 76.5 88.9 90.4 90.5 95.4 93.6 87.8 77.5 91.6 No. individuals monitored 112 (1.4%) 2,663 (33.8%) 787 (10%) 7 (0.1%) 371 (4.7%) 1,356 (17.2%) 325 (4.1%) 94 (1.2%) 886 (11.2%) 1,420 (18%) 771 (9.8%) 7,885 (100%) Observed 95th percentile of data (µg/m3) 0 0.008 0.03 0.019 0.048 0.051 0.025 0.004 0.014 0.052 0.086 0.022 95% UTL of 95th percentile (µg/m3) 0.05 0.05 0.056 NA 0.057 0.096 0.05 0.057 0.05 0.08 0.107 0.05 Largest value (µg/m3) 28.475 51.895 26.678 0.313 16.697 575.93 87.419 11.7 84.933 29.852 7.67 575.93 % > 0.2 µg/m3 (F) 1 0.8 1.6 0.7 2.1 2.2 1.3 1.9 1.3 2 2.2 1.4 Lower confidence limit for F 0.7 0.7 1.4 <0.1 1.8 2 1.1 1.1 1.2 1.8 2 1.4 Upper confidence limit for F 1.5 0.8 1.8 6.1 2.4 2.4 1.6 3.2 1.5 2.2 2.4 1.4 *Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry. Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits.
Guest
Upper confidence limit for F: 6.1
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.7
Lower confidence limit for F: <0.1
Craft
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.8
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.8
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.7
Administrative
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.0
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.7
Management
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.6
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.3
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.1
Service
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.3
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.2
Field Professional
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.8
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.6
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.4
Security & Fire
Upper confidence limit for F: 3.2
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.9
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.1
Not Reported
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.4
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 2.1
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.8
Technical Support
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.2
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 2.0
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.8
In-house Professional
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.4
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 2.1
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.8
Line Operator
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.4
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 2.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 2.0
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Percent of 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Job Title for Craft Workers (2002-2021) *
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This graphic shows individuals with job titles in the craft work activity category. The detailed data through 2021 presented in the accompanying table include the summary statistics for cumulative 8-hour TWA monitoring results by craft job title. Deactivation & Decommissioning (D&D) worker, electrician, plumber & fitter, millwright, painter, carpenter, mechanic, iron worker, sheet metal worker, waste-management mechanic, and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) mechanic individually have percent exceedances that are higher than when all crafts are combined (0.8% to 9.2% as compared to 0.8%, as shown in the table below).
Among craft workers, HVAC mechanics, waste-management mechanics, and sheet metal workers show percentages exceeding the 0.2 µg/m3 action level that are higher than the percentages experienced by other craft workers. However, the percentage for HVAC mechanics reflects exposure monitoring results for only 32 individuals, and for sheet metal workers only 130 individuals.
Summary Statistics for 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Job Title (2002-2021)* Craft Job Title Number of reported monitoring results Number of detected values Percent non-detects Number of individuals monitored Observed 95th% of data (µg/m3) 95% UTL of 95th% (µg/m3) Largest value (µg/m3) Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F) Lower confidence limit for F Upper confidence limit for F Insulator 151 (0%) 3 (0%) 98 31 (1%) <0.1 0.2 0.2 <0.1 <0.1 6.3 Heavy Equipment Operator 1443 (3%) 63 (2%) 95.6 156 (6%) <0.1 0.02 10.44 0.2 0.1 0.3 Maintenance Mechanic 740 (1%) 17 (1%) 97.7 117 (4%) <0.1 0.03 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.5 Welder 1,142 (2%) 32 (1%) 97.2 54 (2%) <0.1 0.02 0.36 0.2 0.1 0.5 Other Craft 24,734 (47%) 718 (28%) 97.1 457 (17%) <0.1 0.02 37.3 0.4 0.3 0.4 Laborer 2,756 (5%) 75 (3%) 97.3 367 (14%) <0.1 0.05 10.34 0.4 0.2 0.6 Hazardous Waste Worker 259 (0%) 6 (0%) 97.7 26 (1%) <0.1 0.17 0.19 0.6 0.1 2.1 Machinist 6,751 (13%) 307 (12%) 95.5 127 (5%) <0.1 0.05 51.89 0.8 0.6 0.9 Deactivation & Decommissioning (D&D) Worker 1,513 (3%) 151 (6%) 90 165 (6%) 0.03 0.04 2.47 0.8 0.6 1.1 Electrician 4,802 (9%) 363 (14%) 92.4 448 (17%) 0.02 0.05 14.42 1.1 0.9 1.3 Plumber & Fitter 2,839 (5%) 170 (7%) 94 286 (11%) <0.1 0.05 5.73 1.2 0.9 1.5 Millwright 956 (2%) 53 (2%) 94.5 145 (5%) <0.1 0.05 23.08 1.6 1.1 2.3 Painter 1,360 (3%) 185 (7%) 86.4 66 (2%) 0.05 0.07 7.42 1.7 1.3 2.2 Carpenter 1,261 (2%) 116 (4%) 90.8 144 (5%) 0.04 0.05 3.18 1.76 1.31 2.3 Mechanic 121 (0%) 13 (1%) 89.3 44 (2%) 0.02 0.09 0.14 2.3 0.9 5.3 Iron Worker 205 (0%) 29 (1%) 85.9 51 (2%) 0.17 0.41 1.85 3.8 2.2 6.1 Sheet Metal Worker 850 (2%) 125 (5%) 85.3 130 (5%) 0.21 0.33 8.87 4 3.2 5 Waste-Management Mechanic 134 (0%) 18 (1%) 86.6 14 (1%) 0.15 1.29 2.39 4.4 2.3 7.6 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Mechanic 344 (1%) 139 (5%) 59.6 32 (1%) 0.41 0.88 6.4 9.2 7.2 11.5 All Combined 52,361 (100%) 2,583 (100%) 95.1 2,663 (100%) <0.1 0.05 51.89 0.8 0.7 0.8 * Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry. Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3
Insulator
Upper confidence limit for F: 6.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): < 0.1
Lower confidence limit for F: < 0.1
Heavy Equipment Operator
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.1
Maintenance Mechanic
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.1
Welder
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.1
Other Craft
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.4
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.4
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.3
Laborer
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.6
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.4
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.2
Hazardous Waste Worker
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.1
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.6
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.1
Machinist
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.9
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.8
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.6
D&D Worker
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.1
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.8
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.6
Electrician
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.1
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.9
Plumber & Fitter
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.9
Millwright
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.6
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.1
Painter
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.2
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.7
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.3
Carpenter
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.8
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.3
Mechanic
Upper confidence limit for F: 5.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 2.3
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.9
Iron Worker
Upper confidence limit for F: 6.1
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 3.8
Lower confidence limit for F: 2.2
Sheet Metal Worker
Upper confidence limit for F: 5.0
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 4.0
Lower confidence limit for F: 3.2
Waste-Management Mechanic
Upper confidence limit for F: 7.6
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 4.4
Lower confidence limit for F: 2.3
HVAC Mechanic
Upper confidence limit for F: 11.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 9.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 7.2
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Percent of 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Reporting Organization (2002-2021) *
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This chart summarizes the cumulative 8-hour TWA exposure monitoring results through Calendar Year 2021 by reporting organization. The detailed data presented below include the summary statistics for the cumulative 8-hour TWA monitoring results for each reporting organization that reported workers with a percentage exceeding the action level. The percent of monitoring results exceeding the action level at Y-12, ANL, SNL, PTX, and Fermi (ranging from 1.6 to 17.2%) were higher than the overall percent exceedances when data across all organizations are combined (1.4%).
The graphic does not include results from AMES, ETTP, HAN, KCNSC, LANL N3B, LBNL, LLNL CHES, ORNL, PADUCAH, PNNL, SLAC, and SRS because of the small number of total samples and/or low percent exceeding the action level. Collectively, these data indicate that the majority of reporting organizations have acceptable sampling programs. However, the data also show that some organizations with ongoing beryllium activities, but small numbers of exposure monitoring samples could revisit their sampling strategies and consider increasing the volume of sampling.
Summary Statistics for 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) Exceeding Action Level 0.2 μg/m3 by Reporting Organization (2002-2021)* Reporting Organization No. monitoring results No. detected values % non-detects No. individ. monitored Obs. 95th percentile (µg/m3) 95% UTL /95th % (µg/m3) Largest value (µg/m3) % > 0.2 µg/m3 (F) Lower confidence limit for F Upper confidence limit for F AMES 57 (0.1%) 3 (0%) 94.7 12 (1.4%) 0.000 <0.1 0.028 <0.1 <0.1 91.1 ANL 155 (0.1%) 18 (0.2%) 88.4 19 (2.3%) 0.145 1.100 2.390 4.1 2.3 7.0 BNL 105 (0.1%) 2 (0%) 98.1 8 (0.9%) 0.002 0.100 0.100 0.5 <0.1 50.0 ETTP 1,284 (1.1%) 0 (0%) 100.0 168 (19.9%) 0.010 <0.1 0.069 <0.1 <0.1 0.2 Fermi 48 (0%) 22 (0.2%) 54.2 26 (3.1%) 1.296 <0.1 4.800 17.2 10.6 26.1 HAN 596 (0.5%) 0 (0%) 100.0 168 (19.9%) 0.017 <0.1 0.118 <0.1 <0.1 0.5 INL 33 (0%) 1 (0%) 97.0 202 (23.9%) 0.011 <0.1 0.022 <0.1 <0.1 8.7 KAPL 236 (0.2%) 2 (0%) 99.2 39 (4.6%) 0.006 0.200 0.200 0.3 <0.1 27.4 KCNSC 10 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 22 (2.6%) 0.013 <0.1 0.014 <0.1 <0.1 25.9 LANL 14,074 (12.4%) 2,698 (28.4%) 80.8 7 (0.8%) 0.040 0.054 26.678 1.1 1.0 1.2 LANL N3B 2 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 2 (0.2%) 0.014 <0.1 0.014 <0.1 <0.1 77.6 LBNL 18 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 8 (0.9%) 0.100 <0.1 0.100 <0.1 <0.1 15.3 LLNL 15 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 6 (0.7%) 0.064 <0.1 0.064 <0.1 <0.1 18.1 LLNL CHES 3 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 1 (0.1%) 0.040 <0.1 0.042 <0.1 <0.1 63.2 NNSS 1,129 (1%) 94 (1%) 91.7 297 (35.2%) 0.010 0.052 0.317 0.7 0.4 1.0 ORNL 1,420 (1.2%) 18 (0.2%) 98.7 6 (0.7%) 0.002 0.011 0.157 0.0 <0.1 0.1 PADUCAH 43 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 4 (0.5%) 0.011 <0.1 0.110 <0.1 <0.1 6.7 PNNL 15 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 4 (0.5%) 0.004 <0.1 0.004 <0.1 <0.1 18.1 PTX 2,661 (2.3%) 295 (3.1%) 88.9 41 (4.9%) 0.190 0.292 575.93 4.3 3.8 4.9 SLAC 42 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 26 (3.1%) 0.040 <0.1 0.150 <0.1 <0.1 6.9 SNL 987 (0.9%) 373 (3.9%) 62.2 6 (0.7%) 0.129 0.180 3.820 4.1 3.4 5.0 SRS 4 (0%) 0 (0%) 100.0 4 (0.5%) 0.004 <0.1 0.004 <0.1 <0.1 52.7 Y-12 62,886 (55.3%) 4,884 (51.5%) 92.2 283 (33.5%) 0.036 0.050 87.419 1.6 1.5 1.6 Y-12 ANS 412 (0.4%) 4 (0%) 99.0 18 (2.1%) 0.001 0.010 0.150 0.2 <0.1 1.5 All 113,633 (100%) 9,491 (100%) 91.6 844 (100%) 0.022 0.050 575.93 1.4 1.4 1.4 Click here for List of Acronyms
* Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry. Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3
Y-12 ANS
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.2
Lower confidence limit for F: < 0.1
KAPL
Upper confidence limit for F: 27.4
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.3
Lower confidence limit for F: < 0.1
BNL
Upper confidence limit for F: 50.0
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.5
Lower confidence limit for F: <0.1
NNSS
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.0
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.7
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.4
INL
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.2
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.9
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.7
LANL
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.2
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.1
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.0
Y-12
Upper confidence limit for F: 1.6
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.6
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.5
ANL
Upper confidence limit for F: 7.0
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 4.1
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.5
SNL
Upper confidence limit for F: 5.0
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 4.1
Lower confidence limit for F: 3.4
PTX
Upper confidence limit for F: 4.9
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 4.3
Lower confidence limit for F: 3.8
Fermi
Upper confidence limit for F: 26.1
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 17.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 10.6
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Exposure Monitoring Results Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Reporting Organization (2021) *
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This graphic provides the percent of exposure monitoring results that exceeded the action level by reporting organization for Calendar Year 2021 (CY2021). Fewer organizations reported exposure monitoring in recent years, and those organizations submitting data have also reported fewer sampling results. This downward trend impacts the analysis and interpretation of results in the Beryllium-Associated Worker Registry (BAWR). The small sample size reduces accuracy and causes higher variability in the statistical models used. Certainly, the wide confidence intervals in the single year CY2021 analysis demonstrate the reduction of statistical power and confidence in the interpretation when compared to similar but larger samples of the population.
The table below gives additional summary statistics for organizations reporting exposure data to the BAWR during CY2021. Organizations that did not report data for CY2021 are not included in this table.
The data in the graphic and table show that Sandia National Laboratory had the greatest percentage (19.4%) of reported exposure monitoring results exceeding the action level in CY2021.
Summary Statistics for Exposure Monitoring Results Exceeding Action Level 0.2 μg/m3 by Reporting Organization (2021)* Reporting Organization No. monitoring results No. detected values % non-detects No. individ. monitored Obs. 95th percentile (µg/m3) 95% UTL /95th% (µg/m3) Largest value (µg/m3) % > 0.2 µg/m3 (F) Lower confidence limit for F Upper confidence limit for F ETTP 1,207 (36%) 0 (0%) 100 151 (21%) HAN 607 (18%) 0 (0%) 100 202 (29%) INL 1 (0%) 0 (0%) 100 1 (0%) KCNSC 3 (0%) 0 (0%) 100 2 (0%) LANL 152 (4%) 5 (7%) 96.6 47 (7%) 0.007 0.08 0.363 0.4 <0.1 2.9 LANL N3B 2 (0%) 0 (0%) 100 2 (0%) LLNL 17 (1%) 0 (0%) 100 6 (1%) ORNL 42 (1%) 8 (12%) 80.5 28 (4%) 0.075 <0.1 0.135 1.9 0.3 8.5 PADUCAH 43 (1%) 0 (0%) 100 6 (1%) PNNL 16 (0%) 0 (0%) 100 4 (1%) PTX 43 (1%) 9 (13%) 90 26 (4%) 0.03 1.498 6.609 2.8 1 6.8 SNL 14 (0%) 9 (13%) 35.7 6 (1%) 0.381 <0.1 0.5 19.4 7.4 39.2 SRS 4 (0%) 0 (0%) 100 4 (1%) Y-12 1,208 (36%) 35 (51%) 35.7 233 (33%) 0.001 0.009 1.555 0.2 0.1 0.3 Y-12 ANS 37 (1%) 2 (3%) 97.8 16 (2%) 0.008 0.107 0.107 0.6 <0.1 55.9 All 3,396 (100%) 69 (100%) 98.4 704 (100%) <0.1 0.011 6.609 0.3 0.2 0.4 Click here for List of Acronyms
* Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry. Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits
Y-12
Upper confidence limit for F: 0.3
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.2
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.1
LANL
Upper confidence limit for F: 2.9
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.4
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.0
Y-12 ANS
Upper confidence limit for F: 55.9
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 0.6
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.0
ORNL
Upper confidence limit for F: 8.5
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 1.9
Lower confidence limit for F: 0.3
PTX
Upper confidence limit for F: 6.6
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 2.8
Lower confidence limit for F: 1.0
SNL
Upper confidence limit for F: 39.2
Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 (F): 19.4
Lower confidence limit for F: 7.4
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Exposure Monitoring Results Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Reporting Organization (2021)
This table provides the reporting organization, process description, 8-hour time weighted average (TWA), and the respirator assigned protection factor (APF) for the results observed above the action level through Calendar Year 2021 (CY2021).
Exceedances for CY2021 were greater than in CY2020 with twelve (12) samples exceeding the action level in CY2021, compared with 4 in CY2020, and 21 in CY2019. Since the total reported exposure sampling results continue to decrease over time, the proportion of exceedances is greater than in previous years. In all cases, work planning processes identified the potential for beryllium exposure and workers wore appropriate respiratory protection.
Reporting Organization Process Description Job Title 8-hr TWA µg/m3 Respirator APF PTX Production Technician Crafts 6.61 1,000 Y-12 - - 1.56 1,000 Y-12 - - 1.56 1,000 PTX Material Handler Other Crafts 1.50 1,000 Y-12 Other Crafts - 1.31 1,000 SNL Technician - 0.50 50 SNL Technician - 0.33 25 PTX Production Technician Other Crafts 0.32 1,000 Y-12 Other Crafts - 0.28 1,000 Y-12 Other Technicians - 0.23 1 SNL Technician - 0.22 25 SNL Technician - 0.21 1,000 Click here for List of Acronyms
*Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits
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Exposure Monitoring Results Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Reporting Organization (2020)
This table provides the reporting organization, process description, 8-hour time weighted average (TWA), and the respirator assigned protection factor (APF) for the results observed above the action level through Calendar Year 2020 (CY2020).
Exceedances for CY2020 were less than in CY2019 with four (4) samples exceeding the action level in CY2020, compared with 21 in CY2019, and 31 in CY2018. Since the total reported exposure sampling results continue to decrease over time, the proportion of exceedances is greater than in previous years. In all cases work planning processes identified the potential for beryllium exposure and workers wore appropriate respiratory protection.
Reporting Organization Process Description Job Title 8-hr TWA µg/m3 Respirator APF Y-12 Production Other Crafts 17.34 1000 Y-12 Production Crafts 0.50 1000 Y-12 Production Other Crafts 0.43 1000 ETTP Collection/Monitoring - 0.39 50 Click here for List of Acronyms
* Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits.
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Exposure Monitoring Results Exceeding Action Level 0.2 µg/m3 by Reporting Organization (2019)
This table provides the reporting organization, process description, 8-hour time weighted average (TWA), and the respirator assigned protection factor (APF) for the results observed above the action level through Calendar Year 2019 (CY2019).
Exceedances for CY2019 were less than in CY2018 with twenty-one (21) samples exceeding the action level in CY2019, compared with 31 in CY2018, and 36 in CY2017. Since the total reported exposure sampling results continue to decrease over time, the proportion of exceedances is greater than in previous years. In all cases work planning processes identified the potential for beryllium exposure and workers wore appropriate respiratory protection.
Reporting Organization Process Description Job Title 8-hr TWA µg/m3 Respirator APF Y-12 Support Engineering Technicians 16.71 50 Y-12 Support Other Engineers 11.06 50 Y-12 Support Environmental Engineers 6.26 50 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work Deactivation & Decommissioning (D & D) Skilled Trade 2.47 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 1.03 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work Radiological Control Technician 0.92 1000 INL Fire Protection Equipment Test/Repair Technician 0.82 1000 Y-12 Support Environmental Engineers 0.77 50 Y-12 Support Engineering Technicians 0.65 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 0.62 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work Radiological Control Technician 0.54 1000 INL Fire Protection Equipment Test/Repair Fire Protection Technician 0.53 1000 Y-12 Production Other Engineers 0.52 50 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 0.51 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 0.49 10000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work Radiological Control Technician 0.47 10000 Y-12 SUPPORT Painters 0.44 1000 Y-12 Production Machinists 0.42 1000 Y-12 Support Engineering Technicians 0.39 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 0.37 1000 INL Fire Protection Equipment Test/Repair Engineering/Laboratory Technician 0.35 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 0.32 1000 Y-12 Support Painters 0.30 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 0.27 1000 Y-12 Production Other Crafts 0.26 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work Radiological Control Technician 0.25 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work Radiological Control Technician 0.24 1000 Y-12 Production Other Crafts 0.24 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 0.23 1000 INL RCRA/CERCLA Work D & D Skilled Trade 0.23 1000 Y-12 Support Painters 0.22 1000 Click here for List of Acronyms
* Percent exceeding 0.2 μg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits.
Health and Monitoring Comparisons
Two different reporting organization groups collect the data associated with health monitoring and exposure monitoring. Occupational health and medical groups collect health monitoring data and industrial hygiene groups collect exposure monitoring data. In most cases, a data coordinator collates the data prior to submission to the Registry. In this section, the health screening data compared to the exposure monitoring data provides insight on the effectiveness of coordination between the 2 activities.
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Comparison of the Number and Percent Proportion for Beryllium-Associated Workers Diagnosed with BeS or CBD with and without Exposure Sampling Results by Reporting Organizations (n=687) (2002-2021) *
The data in the figure shows the collective number of Beryllium Sensitized (BeS) or Chronic Beryllium Disease (CBD) individuals through Calendar Year (2021) who have had exposure monitoring results submitted to the Registry. The figure also illustrates the collective number of individuals who have not had exposure data submitted to the Registry. More than two-thirds (470 out of 699, or 67%) of the workers currently identified as BeS or diagnosed with CBD have no exposure sampling data. The proportion reported in the CY2018, CY2019, and CY2020 annual summaries were 68%.
DOE and ORISE program staff evaluated these data by each mutually exclusive subcategory, BeS or CBD. Of the 544 workers who are BeS and have not progressed to CBD, only 229 (33%) had any exposure sampling measurements submitted to the Registry. Only 111 (55%) of these sensitization cases had any exposure records dated earlier than their reported date of sensitization.
Of the 229 sensitization cases with exposure sampling data, 90 cases only had exposure sampling data with monitoring dates later than their reported date of BeS. In other words, 39% of the BeS cases with exposure data had exposure monitoring initiated only after diagnosed as sensitized.
Of the 155 workers reported as diagnosed with CBD, 50 (32%) of the cases had at least one exposure sampling measurement submitted to the Registry. Only 31 (20%) of the total CBD cases had at least one reported exposure record in the Registry dated earlier than their reported date of CBD diagnosis.
In comparison, 31 (21%) CBD cases had at least one reported exposure record dated later than their date of CBD diagnosis. Industrial hygiene programs monitor workers diagnosed with CBD to ensure compliance with restricted duty. Nevertheless, 19 of the CBD cases only had exposure sampling data later than their reported date of CBD diagnosis. Therefore, only 29 of the CBD cases had exposure monitoring records prior to their CBD diagnosis. Most sites will not assign BeS or CBD workers to jobs where there is a risk of beryllium exposure, so no sampling is required.
In comparison, 31 (21%) CBD cases had at least one reported exposure record dated later than their date of CBD diagnosis. Industrial hygiene programs monitor workers diagnosed with CBD to ensure compliance with restricted duty. Nevertheless, 19 of the CBD cases only had exposure sampling data later than their reported date of CBD diagnosis. Therefore, only 29 of the CBD cases had exposure monitoring records prior to their CBD diagnosis. Most sites will not assign BeS or CBD workers to jobs where there is a risk of beryllium exposure, so no sampling is required.
* Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry.
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Comparison of the Percent of Workers Diagnosed with BeS or CBD with Percent Exceeding Action Level 0.2 μg/m3 by Reporting Organization (2002-2021)
Click here for List of Acronyms
* Some reporting organizations have provided data that predate the 2002 start date of the registry. Percent exceeding 0.2 µg/m3 based on 95% Confidence Limits.
The figure compares the cumulative percent of workers diagnosed with beryllium-sensitized (BeS) or chronic beryllium disease (CBD) to the percent of exposure samples exceeding the 0.2 µg/m3 action level for each reporting agency. These data illustrate that no statistical correlation exists between the incidence of BeS/CBD and the percent of exceedances among the exposure sampling results submitted to the Registry (Pearson product moment correlation coefficient = -0.091). The lack of correlation could be due to sensitization and CBD cases associated with past work locations or conditions rather than the environment currently monitored.
However, it is also possible that the exposure monitoring programs are missing sources of exposure. Reporting organizations with low exposure monitoring results and high sensitization or CBD rates should investigate cases to determine if there is a possibility of ongoing exposures.