Publications by authors named "John Piacentino"
Objective: Research involving working populations can pose unique ethical and risk evaluation challenges. The purpose of this benchmarking project was to assess how federal agencies and academic institutions approach the interpretation and application of key risk evaluation concepts in research involving workers in their places of employment.
Methods: Key informant interviews were conducted to ascertain current practices related to assessing soundness of research design, determining risk reasonableness and research relatedness of risks, and evaluating the risk of noninvasive clinical tests in occupational settings.
Article Synopsis
- The commentary proposes a framework for using SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing specifically for unexposed asymptomatic workers in selected workplaces.
- It draws on established safety and health principles, along with various research sources, to support its recommendations.
- The conclusion highlights that antigen testing is a valuable public health tool that can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in workplaces when implemented thoughtfully as part of a broader prevention strategy.
Article Synopsis
- The paper discusses the essential background information that employers, workers, and health authorities need regarding pooled testing of employees.
- It emphasizes that pooled testing can be especially beneficial in areas with low COVID-19 prevalence by lowering testing numbers and costs.
- Effective pooled testing should be integrated into a wider workplace COVID-19 prevention strategy and can help prevent the spread of the virus among asymptomatic employees.
Evaluation of scientific evidence is critical in developing recommendations to reduce risk. Healthcare was the first scientific field to employ a systematic review approach for synthesizing research findings to support evidence-based decision-making and it is still the largest producer and consumer of systematic reviews. Systematic reviews in the field of occupational safety and health are being conducted, but more widespread use and adoption would strengthen assessments.
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