Job-exposure matrix
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A job-exposure matrix (JEM) is a tool used to assess exposure to potential health hazards in occupational epidemiological studies.
Essentially, a JEM comprises a list of levels of exposure to a variety of harmful (or potentially harmful) agents for selected occupational titles. In large population-based epidemiological studies, JEMs may be used as a quick and systematic means of converting coded occupational data (job titles) into a matrix of possible exposures,[1] eliminating the need to assess each individual's exposure in detail.
Advantages
[edit | edit source]Assessing exposure by title is less costly than looking at individual cases. JEMs may also reduce differential information bias that might occur when evaluating exposure for individuals from medical records in which their jobs are apparent.[1]
Disadvantages
[edit | edit source]Variability of exposure within occupational classes in different workplaces, countries, or throughout time is commonly not taken into account, which can result in nondifferential exposure misclassification.[1]
References
[edit | edit source]- ^ a b c Kauppinen TP, Mutanen PO, Seitsamo JT. Magnitude of misclassification bias when using a job-exposure matrix. [Internet]. Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health 1992 Apr;18(2):105-112. Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2172: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value). JSTOR 40965977