CIS 97-1411 Occupational Health and Safety Amendment Act [South Africa]. Government Gazette - Staatskoerant, 29 Dec. 1993, Vol.342, No.15369, p.12918-12926. (In English)

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This Law (effective 1 Jan. 1994) modifies Act No.85 on health and safety at work (see CIS 94-1451). Contents: definitions of certain expressions; further elements of the constitution of the Advisory Council for Occupational Health and Safety; further regulation of the duty not to interfere with or misuse things; appointment and functions of health and safety representatives; obligation of medical practitioners to inform workers of an occupational disease they have contracted; prohibition of victimization. (69702)

CIS 97-1412 Act No.24,557 - Hazards at work [Argentina]. (Spanish: Ley N° 24.5 - Riesgos del trabajo [Argentina]) Boletín Oficial de la República Argentina, 4 Oct. 1995, Year 103, No.28.242, 1a, p.1-5. (In Spanish)

Internet:
http://infoleg.mecon.gov.ar/infolegInternet/anexos/25000-29999/27971/texact.htm

This Act (effective 1 July 1996) has the following main aims: reduce the incidence of accidents in the workplace through the introduction of preventive measures; compensate the victims of occupational accidents and diseases and provide for their rehabilitation; promote the reinsertion of accident and disease victims; promote collective negotiations between employers and workers in the field of preventive measures and compensation. Main subjects covered: scope of the Act (employees of the private and public sector; by power of the Executive Branch the following can also be included: domestic workers, self-employed persons, workers not covered by the Labour Code, volunteer firemen); choice of self-insurance and obligatory insurance with an "Occupational Risk Insurer" (Aseguradora de Riesgos del Trabajo (ART)); prevention of occupational hazards (incl. role of ARTs and of their supervising agency, the Superintendencia de Riesgos del Trabajo (SRT)); occupational accidents and diseases (incl.definition of various types of incapacity); compensation; financial responsibilities; civil responsibility of the employer; establishment of a tripartite Consultative Permanent Committee to supervise the Act; sanctions. (69708)

CIS 97-1413 Ordinance No.96-19 of 20 Safar 1417 (6 July 1996) modifying and completing Act No.83-13 of 2 July 1983 concerning occupational accidents and diseases [Algeria]. (French: Ordonnance n°96-19 du 20 Safar 1417 correspondant au 6 juillet 1996 modifiant et complétant la loi n°83-13 du 2 juillet 1983 relative aux accidents de travail et aux maladies professionnelles [Algérie]) Journal officiel de la République algérienne, 7 July 1996, No.42, p.13-14. (In French)

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This Ordinance modifies Act No.83-13 (see CIS 89-352). It extends the list of accidents considered as occupational, and makes changes in the way compensation payments are calculated. (69703)

CIS 97-1414 Hazards at work - Decree 334/96: Regulations implementing Act No.24,557 [Argentina]. (Spanish: Riesgos del trabajo - Decreto 334/96: Reglamentación de la Ley Nº24.557 [Argentina]) Boletín Oficial de la República Argentina, 8 Apr. 1996, Year 104, No.28.369, 1a, p.1-4. (In Spanish)

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Decree implementing Act 24.557 (CIS 97-1412). Its principal contents concern the insurance (self insurance or by third parties) by enterprises of the hazards posed by occupational diseases and injuries. It was modified subsequently by Decree 491/97 of 29 May 1997. (69709)

CIS 97-1415 Royal Order of 17 June 1997 concerning safety and health signs at work [Belgium]. (Dutch: Koninklijk besluit betreffende de veiligheids- en gezondheidssignalering op het werk; French: Arrêté royal du 17 juin 1997 concernant la signalisation de sécurité et de santé au travail [Belgique]) Moniteur belge - Belgisch Staatsblad, 19 Sep. 1997, No.178, 167th Year, p.24395-24438. Illus. (In Dutch, French)

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Contents of this Order, issued to bring Belgian legislation into conformity with Directive 92/58/EEC (see CIS 93-1752): scope; definitions; different methods to install permanent or temporary safety signs in the workplace; particular signs to indicate fire hazards and biological hazards; relevant changes introduced into the General Regulations (1947) for Labour Protection (R.G.P.T.) (CIS 93-1056). In annex: general principles applicable to safety and health signs at work; prescriptions relating to warning signs; signs relating to storage devices and piping; signs for the localization and identification of fire-fighting equipment; signs for obstacles, danger zones and passageways; luminous and acoustic signals; verbal warnings; warning gestures. (69978)

CIS 97-1416 Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996 [Australia - Western Australia]. Government Gazette of Western Australia, 27 Sept.1996, No.139 (Special Issue), p.1-228. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/wa/consol_reg/osahr1996382/

These Regulations (effective 1 Oct. 1996) were issued under the authority of the Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare Act 1984 (CIS 90-1403). Contents: definitions; scope; general responsibilities of employers; role of safety and health representatives and their training; notification of occupational diseases and accidents; medical examinations; workplace safety requirements (hazard identification, fire precautions, first aid, personal protective clothing and equipment, respiratory protection, hearing protection, prevention of falls, electrical safety, scaffolding, work in confined spaces, dangerous work processes); safety of plant (registration of plant design and plant items, general duties, specific requirements in relation to certain types of plant); hazardous substances; certificates of competency. The 1988 Regulations (CIS 90-1410) are repealed. In schedules: list of relevant standards (AS and AS/NZS); list of guidelines and forms of guidance available to workers; various lists of dangerous and carcinogenic substances. (69980)

CIS 97-1417 Interministerial Order of 17 Dhu Al Hajjah 1416 (5 May 1996) establishing the schedule of diseases presumed to be of occupational origin, with annexes 1 and 2 [Algeria]. (French: Arrêté interministériel du 17 Dhou El Hidja 1416 correspondant au 5 mai 1996 fixant la liste des maladies présumées d'origine professionnelle ainsi que ses annexes 1 et 2 [Algérie]) Journal officiel de la République algérienne, 23 Mar. 1997, Year 35, No.16, p.6-59. (In French)

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This Order is issued in accordance with the relevant provisions of Act No.83-13 of 2 July 1983 concerning occupational accidents and diseases (see CIS 89-352). It defines the situations in which occupational diseases are considered as occupational accidents. It lists the types of work that are susceptible of leading to occupational diseases, and establishes the principle of presumption of imputability of certain diseases to work activities. In the annexes: detailed schedule of occupational diseases (with corresponding work activities); classification of diseases considered as occupational in origin. (69704)

CIS 97-1418 Executive Decree No.93-120 of 15 May 1993 concerning the organization of occupational medicine [Algeria]. (French: Décret exécutif n°93-120 du 15 mai 1993 relatif à l'organisation de la médecine du travail [Algérie]) Journal officiel de la République algérienne, 19 May 1993, No.33, p.7-11. (In French)

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This Decree requires enterprises to set up occupational health services under certain conditions and to finance these services. It lists the duties of occupational physicians: conducting pre-employment medical examinations, maintaining lists of workers needing frequent medical check-ups, providing occupational hygiene advice, keeping medical records of workers up to date. The labour inspectorate will have the responsibility to supervise the work of occupational physicians. (69972)

CIS 97-1419 Amendment of mine health and safety regulations [South Africa]. Government Gazette - Staatskoerant, 21 June 1997, Vol.384, No.18078, p.1-8. (In English)

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These Regulations, issued under the 1996 Mine Health and Safety Act (CIS 96-1928), modifies certain aspects of Regulations No. R 93 of 15 Jan. 1997. These modifications are in the following areas: health and safety representatives and committees: elections and nominations, appointments and duties; duties of managers. Chapter 7 of the 15 Jan. Regulations is replaced by new text concerning the Inspectorate of Mine Health and Safety. (69701)

CIS 97-1420 Atomic Energy (Factories) Rules, 1996 [India]. Gazette of India, 22 June 1996, No.25, Part II, Sec.3 subsection (i), p.1115-1210 (Hindi), p.1211-1302 (English). (In English, Hindi)

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These regulations (effective: 22 June 1996) concern safety and health rules applying to nuclear energy establishments managed by the State. Contents: inspection requirements; health requirements; safety (in particular as it applies to various kinds of machinery and equipment; excessive weights; eye protection; fire protection and prevention); safety officers and safety organization; welfare facilities; first aid; medical examinations; working hours; general requirements; medical requirements; operations requiring the use of specific dangerous substances; noise protection; use of highly flammable liquids and flammable compressed gases; radioactive substances; lasers and optical radiation; motor vehicle garages; cryogenic liquids. In appendix: certificates, reports and other forms. (69973)

CIS 97-1421 Health and Safety - The Control of Pesticides (Amendment) Regulations 1997 [United Kingdom]. HMSO Publications Centre, P.O.Box 276, London SW8 5DT, United Kingdom, 1997. 14p. Price: GBP 3,20., ISBN 0-11-063695-3 (In English)

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These modifications of the 1986 Regulations (already modified in 1990 and 1994) came into force on 31 Jan. 1997. Contents: definitions; scope (all pesticides and similar substances, with a detailed list of exceptions); need for ministerial consent to the advertising, sale, supply, storage and use of pesticides; conditions for the seizure and disposal of pesticides; release of information to the public. In schedules: conditions relating to the giving of consent. (69706)

CIS 97-1422 Health and Safety - The Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) (Amendment) Regulations 1997 [United Kingdom]. HMSO Publications Centre, P.O. Box 276, London SW8 5DT, Royaume-Uni, 1997. 5p. Price: GBP 1,55., ISBN 0-11-063750-X (In English)

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These Regulations (entry into force: 7 July 1997) modify the 1994 Regulations on the same subject (see CIS 95-23). In the schedules and in article 3, a new edition of the approved classification and labelling guide and supplement to the 3rd ed. of the approved supply list is introduced, thus implementing part of Directive 96/54/EC of 30 July 1996 (CIS 97-8), the 22nd adaptation to technical progress of Directive 67/548/EEC (CIS 92-23). Regulations 8 to 12 of the principal Regulations of 1994 are applied to LPG, butane and propane. Minor modifications are made to existing legislation in application of Directives 76/769/EEC (CIS 92-22) and 88/379/EEC (CIS 91-21). (69707)

CIS 97-1423 Health and Safety - The Control of Pesticides Regulations 1986 [United Kingdom]. HMSO Publications Centre, P.O.Box 276, London SW8 5DT, United Kingdom, 1986. 11p. (In English)

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These Regulations (effective, for most provisions: 6 Oct. 1986; all provisions: 1 Jan. 1988) were issued in accordance with the Food and Environment Protection Act 1985. Contents: scope and definitions; role of various Ministries in regulating and supervising pesticide use (including power of confiscation and duty to inform the public). In annex: conditions for the supply, storage, sale and advertising of pesticides. (69971)

CIS 97-1424 Commission Directive 97/53/EC of 11 Sep. 1997 adapting to technical progress Council Directive 79/196/EEC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States concerning electrical equipment for use in potentially explosive atmospheres employing certain types of protection [European Communities]. (French: Dir. 97/53/CE de la Commission du 11.9.97 portant adaptation...de la dir. 79/196/CEE ... concernant le rapprochement des législations des E.m. relatives au matériel électrique utilisable en atmosphère explosive mettant en œuvre certains modes de protection [Communautés européennes]) Official Journal of the European Communities - Journal officiel des Communautés européennes, 20 Sep. 1997, Vol.40, No.L 257, p.27-28. (In English, French)

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This Directive replaces Annex I of Directive 79/196/EEC (CIS 90-1774), itself modified by Directive 94/26/EC (CIS 95-1949). It contains a list of harmonized standards to which electrical equipment for use in potentially explosive atmospheres employing certain types of protection must conform. Member States must bring into force legislation necessary to conform with this Directive not later than 31 May 1998. (69705)

CIS 97-1425 Presidential Decree No.90-198 of 30 June 1990 regulating the use of explosive substances [Algeria]. (French: Décret présidentiel n°90-198 du 30 juin 1990 portant réglementation des substances explosives [Algérie]) Journal officiel de la République algérienne, 4 July 1990, No.27, p.760-765. (In French)

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Contents of this presidential decree: definitions; classification of explosive substances into five categories; authorizations for the use or handling of explosive substances in research, production, storage, industrial use (need for the carrying out of a safety survey), commerce (need for appropriate labelling) and transportation. Decree No.63-184 of 15 June 1963 concerning the explosives industry is repealed. (69975)

CIS 97-1426 Atomic Energy (Control of Irradiation of Food) Rules, 1996 [India]. Gazette of India, 22 June 1996, No.25, Part II, Sec.3 subsection (i), p.1303-1315 (Hindi), p.1316-1330 English). Illus. (In English, Hindi)

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This Regulation (entry into force: on publication) concerns the modalities by which food may be irradiated, as well as the procedures by which food irradiation licences and licence suspensions/revocations may be issued. It provides a list of information elements that must appear in licence requests. Other aspects covered: the Radiological Safety Officer; monitoring of personnel; preparation of operating and emergency procedures. In schedules: table presenting the technological conditions for irradiation; qualifications of personnel; contents of the document submitted to the competent authorities for obtaining approval of irradiation facilities; conditions for the operation of irradiation facilities; general conditions for irradiated foods; radiation survey instruments required for radiation monitoring; standards for packaging materials; operational limits; leakage and safety related tests; various forms. (69974)

CIS 97-1427 Royal Order of 25 Apr. 1997 concerning the protection of workers against the hazards of ionizing radiation [Belgium]. (Dutch: Koninklijk besluit betreffende de bescherming van de werknemers tegen de risoco's voortkomende uit ioniserende straling); French: Arrêté royal du 25 avril 1997 concernant la protection des travailleurs contre les risques résultant des rayonnements ionisants [Belgique]) Moniteur belge - Belgisch Staatsblad, 12 July 1997, No.131, 167th Year, p.18512-18529. (In Dutch, French)

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This Order implements in Belgium the provisions of Directive 84/467/EURATOM (CIS 85-90). Contents: scope; definitions; obligations of employers (e.g. to conduct a pre-employment medical examination for all potentially exposed workers), of enterprises and outside workers (e.g. to notify the Administration de l'hygiène et la médecine du travail of work involving potential exposure); details of medical examinations practiced by occupational physicians and of dosimetric surveillance conducted by health physicists; maintenance of exposure and decontamination records at the enterprise, national and worker level; role of inspectors. Certain provisions of General Regulations (1947) for Labour Protection (R.G.P.T.) (CIS 93-1056) are repealed. In annex: medical surveillance; exposure and decontamination records. (69979)

CIS 97-1428 Executive Decree No.90-245 of 18 Aug. 1990 regulating the use of pressurized gas equipment [Algeria]. (French: Décret exécutif n°90-245 du 18 août 1990 portant réglementation des appareils à pression de gaz [Algérie]) Journal officiel de la République algérienne, 22 Aug.1990, No.36, p.998-1003. (In French)

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Contents of this Decree: safety conditions for the manufacturing, installation and use of pressurized gas equipment; rules applicable to the repair and testing of such equipment (need for verification certificates and reparation registries); requirement to notify the Mining Services of the installation of all fixed pressurized gas equipment; investigation of accidents involving such equipment. (69976)

CIS 97-1429 Executive Decree No.90-246 of 18 Aug. 1990 regulating the use of steam pressure vessels [Algeria]. (French: Décret exécutif n°90-246 du 18 août 1990 portant réglementation des appareils à pression de vapeur [Algérie]) Journal officiel de la République algérienne, 22 Aug.1990, No.36, p.1003-1010. (In French)

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Contents of this Executive Decree: safety conditions for the manufacturing, installation and use of steam boilers, steam pipes and steam vessels; safety devices (level indicators, manometers, safety valves, alarms, openings, tubes and shut-off valves); conformity testing of new equipment; testing during maintenance; conditions for the use of steam generators (three categories are defined); inspection of steam-operating equipment; investigation of accidents caused by such equipment. (69977)

CIS 97-1430 Commission Directive 97/59/EC of 7.10.97 adapting to technical progress Council Directive 90/679/EEC on the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents at work (7th individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16 (1) of Directive 89/391/EEC) [European Communities]. (French: Dir... du 7.10.97 portant adaptation au progrès technique de la dir. 90/679/CEE ... concernant la protection des travailleurs contre les risques liés à l'exposition à des agents biologiques au travail (7e dir. part. au sens de l'art. 16(1) de la dir. 89/391/CEE) [Communautés européennes]) Official Journal of the European Communities - Journal officiel des Communautés européennes, 15 Oct. 1997, Vol.40, No.L 282, p.33-35. (In English, French)

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This Directive modifies Annex III of Directive 90/679/EEC (see CIS 91-29), already modified by Directives 93/88/EEC (CIS 94-783) and 95/30/EC. It adds new bacteria, viruses and fungi to the list and classifies them. It also modifies information on biological agents contained in the above-named Directives. (69710)

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CIS 97-1431 Nitromethane. (Spanish: Nitrometano) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0522. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; may affect the liver and kidney. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 100ppm, 250mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991); PDK: 30mg/m³ (USSR 1988). (69871)

CIS 97-1432 2-Nitrotoluene. (Spanish: 2-Nitrotolueno) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0931. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may affect the blood (methaemoglobinaemia). Long-term exposure effects: may affect the liver (hepatic damage) and blood (anaemia). Occupational exposure limits: TLV (as TWA): 2ppm, 11mg/m³ (skin) (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69872)

CIS 97-1433 Octane. (Spanish: Octano) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 10-0933. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; swallowing the liquid may cause aspiration into the lungs with the risk of chemical pneumonitis; lowering of consciousness. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 300ppm, 1400mg/m³; TLV (as STEL): 375ppm, 1750mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69873)

CIS 97-1434 1-Octene. (Spanish: Oct-1-eno) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 10-0934. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: neurotoxic effects; lowering of consciousness. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; liquid defats the skin. (69874)

CIS 97-1435 Calcium oxide. (Spanish: Oxido de calcio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 6-0409. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; corrosive effects on the eyes, skin, respiratory tract and on ingestion; chemical burns; pulmonary oedema. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; ulceration and perforation of nasal septum. Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 2mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69875)

CIS 97-1436 Magnesium oxide. (Spanish: Oxido de magnesio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0504. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; irritation of the eyes and nose; metal fume fever. Occupational exposure limit: TLV (as fumes): 10mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69876)

CIS 97-1437 Pentachlorobenzene. (Spanish: Pentaclorobenceno) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0531. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: neurotoxic effects. Long-term exposure effects: may affect the kidneys and liver; may cause retarded development of the new-born. (69877)

CIS 97-1438 Sodium pentachlorophenolate. (Spanish: Pentaclorofenolato de sodio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0532. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; pulmonary oedema. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system); may affect the lungs, liver and kidneys. (69878)

CIS 97-1439 Phosphorous pentachloride. (Spanish: Pentacloruro de fósforo) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0544. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; corrosive effects on the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; chemical burns; pulmonary oedema (may be delayed). Long-term exposure effects: may affect the lungs and kidneys. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 0.1ppm, 0.85mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991); PDK: 0.2mg/m³ (USSR 1984). (69879)

CIS 97-1440 3-Pentanol. (Spanish: Pentan-3-ol) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0536. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis. (69880)

CIS 97-1441 2,4-Pentanedione. (Spanish: Pentano-2,4-diona) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0533. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; neurotoxic effects (permanent damage of the nervous system). Long-term exposure effects: skin sensitization; may affect the thymus, lungs, brain and nasal passage. (69881)

CIS 97-1442 Phosphorus pentoxide. (Spanish: Pentaóxido de difósforo) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0545. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; corrosive effects on the eyes, skin, respiratory tract and on ingestion; chemical burns; pulmonary oedema. (69882)

CIS 97-1443 Vanadium pentoxide. (Spanish: Pentaóxido de divanadio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 8-0596. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract; pulmonary oedema; tracheitis; bronchitis; bronchospasm; systemic poisoning. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; may affect the lungs; discolouring of the tongue. Occupational exposure limits: TLV (as V): 0.05mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991); PDK (as V): 0.1mg/m³ (USSR 1979). (69883)

CIS 97-1444 Barium peroxide. (Spanish: Peróxido de bario) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 6-0381. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: corrosive effect on ingestion. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis. Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 0.5 (as Ba) mg/m³ (ACGIH 1989-1990). (69884)

CIS 97-1445 Pyrocatechol. (Spanish: Pirocatecol) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 6-0411. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the skin, respiratory and digestive tracts; corrosive effect on the eyes; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system); rise in blood pressure. Long-term exposure effects: skin sensitization. Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 5ppm, 20mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69885)

CIS 97-1446 Pyrogallol. (Spanish: Pirogalol) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 9-0770. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may affect the liver, kidneys and the blood (decrease in oxygen, the substance has a marked affinity for the oxygen of the blood). Long-term exposure effects: skin sensitization. (69886)

CIS 97-1447 Propanil. (Spanish: Propanil) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0552. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: neurotoxic effects (central nervous system); may cause chloracne. Long-term exposure effects: may have effects on the blood (methaemoglobinaemia). (69887)

CIS 97-1448 Propane (liquefied). (Spanish: Propano (licuado)) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 6-0319. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: liquid may cause frostbite; risk of suffocation in confined areas. (69888)

CIS 97-1449 Propazine. (Spanish: Propazina) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 9-0697. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; eye irritation; neurotoxic effects. Long-term exposure effects: skin sensitization. (69889)

CIS 97-1450 Propyne (liquefied). (Spanish: Propino (licuado)) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0560. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: frostbite; risk of suffocation in confined areas. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 1000ppm, 1640mg/m³; STEL: 1250ppm, 2050mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69890)

CIS 97-1451 Propiolactone. (Spanish: Propiolactona) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0555. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; delayed effects; corrosive effects on the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; pulmonary oedema. Long-term exposure effects: probable human carcinogen; may cause genetic damage. Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 0.5ppm, 1.5mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69891)

CIS 97-1452 Propanoic acid butyl ester. (Spanish: Propionato de butilo) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0556. International Chemical Safety Card. Synonym: butyl propanoate. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Long-term exposure effects: may cause asthma. (69892)

CIS 97-1453 Kerosene (petroleum). (Spanish: Queroseno (petróleo)) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0663. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the skin and respiratory tract; may cause chemical pneumonitis. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; liquid defats the skin. (69893)

CIS 97-1454 Mercuric sulfate. (Spanish: Sulfato de mercurio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0982. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; delayed effects; irritation of the skin; corrosive effects on the eyes, respiratory tract and on ingestion; pulmonary oedema; may affect the gastrointestinal tract. Long-term exposure effects: may cause renal damage (nephrotic syndrome). Occupational exposure limits: TLV (as mercury): 0.1mg/m³ (skin) (ACGIH 1990-1991); MAK: 0.05mg (mercury)/m³. (69894)

CIS 97-1455 Sulfotep. (Spanish: Sulfotep) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0985. International Chemical Safety Card. Synonym: TEDP. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; delayed effects; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system) by blood cholinesterase inhibition. Long-term exposure effects: neurotoxic effects (central nervous system) by blood cholinesterase inhibition. Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 0.2mg/m³ (skin) (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69895)

CIS 97-1456 Cadmium sulfide. (Spanish: Sulfuro de cadmio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 6-0404. International Chemical Safety Card. Long-term exposure effects: may affect the lungs and kidneys; probable human carcinogen. Occupational exposure limit: TLV (as Cd): 0.05mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69896)

CIS 97-1457 Dimethyl sulfide. (Spanish: Sulfuro de dimetilo) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 10-0878. International Chemical Safety Card. Highly flammable. Short-term exposure effects: unconsciousness. (69897)

CIS 97-1458 Tellurium. (Spanish: Teluro) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0986. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the respiratory tract; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). Long-term exposure effects: may cause genetic damage. Data are insufficiently available on the harmful health effects of this substance. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 0.1mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991); PDK: 0.01mg/m³ (USSR 1967). (69898)

CIS 97-1459 Carbon tetrabromide. (Spanish: Tetrabromuro de carbono) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of future IPCS ICSC 0474. International Chemical Safety Card. Synonym: tetrabromomethane. Short-term exposure effects: corrosive effects on the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; pulmonary oedema (may be delayed); neurotoxic effects; may affect the liver and kidneys. Long-term exposure effects: may affect the liver. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 0.1ppm, 1.4mg/m³ (TWA), 0.3ppm, 4.1mg/m³ (STEL) (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69899)

CIS 97-1460 Carbon tetrafluoride. (Spanish: Tetrafluoruro de carbono) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 8-0575. International Chemical Safety Card. Synonym: tetrafluoromethane. Short-term exposure effects: risk of suffocation in confined areas; frostbite. (69900)

CIS 97-1461 Osmium tetroxide. (Spanish: Tetraóxido de osmio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 7-0528. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; corrosive effects on the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; pulmonary oedema. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; may affect the kidneys. Occupational exposure limits: TLV (as Os): 0.0002ppm, 0.0016mg/m³ (TWA), 0.0006ppm, 0.0047mg/m³ (STEL) (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69901)

CIS 97-1462 Sodium thiocyanate. (Spanish: Tiocianato de sodio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 8-0675. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). (69902)

CIS 97-1463 Diethylthiophosphoryl chloride. (Spanish: Tiofosforoclorhidrato de o,o-dietilo) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 6-0448. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; delayed effects; corrosive effects on the eyes, skin, respiratory tract and on ingestion; chemical burns; chemical pneumonitis; lacrimating agent. (69903)

CIS 97-1464 Thiourea. (Spanish: Tiourea) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 9-0680. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of mucosa, eyes and respiratory tract. Long-term exposure effects: skin sensitization; may affect the bone marrow (anaemia or goitre); possible human carcinogen. (69904)

CIS 97-1465 Chloramine-T. (Spanish: Tosilcloramina sódica) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 6-0413. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract; asthmatic reactions (may be delayed). Long-term exposure effects: skin sensitization; asthma. (69905)

CIS 97-1466 1,2,4-Triazole. (Spanish: 1,2,4-Triazol) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 9-0682. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes and skin. Data on the health effects of this substance are insufficient. (69906)

CIS 97-1467 2,3,4-Trichlorophenol. (Spanish: 2,3,4-Triclorofenol) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 8-0588. International Chemical Safety Card. Short term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Data on the health effects of this substance are insufficient. (69907)

CIS 97-1468 2,3,5-Trichlorophenol. (Spanish: 2,3,5-Triclorofenol) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 8-0589. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; no data are available on this isomer, but a mixture of trichlorophenols may cause irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract and acute toxic effects on the central nervous system. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; a related substance, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol, is possibly carcinogenic in humans. (69908)

CIS 97-1469 2,3,6-Trichlorophenol. (Spanish: 2,3,6-Triclorofenol) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 8-0590. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; no data are available on this isomer, but a mixture of trichlorophenols may cause toxic effects on the central nervous system. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; a related substance, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol, is possibly carcinogenic in humans. (69909)

CIS 97-1470 1,2,3-Trichloropropane. (Spanish: 1,2,3-Tricloropropano) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1991. 2p. (In Spanish)

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Spanish version of IPCS ICSC 9-0683. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may affect the liver. Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 10ppm, 60mg/m³ (skin) (ACGIH 1990-1991). (69910)

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CIS 97-1471 Occupational safety and health dictionary on CD-ROM. (German: Arbeitssicherheit und Gesundheitsschutz - Wörterbuch auf CD-ROM) Universum Verlagsanstalt, 65175 Wiesbaden, Germany (internet: http://www.universum.de), 1996. CD-ROM (minimum configuration: PC 386, with 66MHz+ 486 recommended; Windows 3.1 or better; 8MB RAM) + explanatory booklet (15p.). Bibl.ref. Index. Price: DEM 129.00 (packaged with 8th ed.: DEM 179.00)., ISBN 3-923221-41-X (In German)

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CD-ROM edition of the eighth edition of the compilation of occupational safety and health terminology in German, with detailed definitions and explanations (the 4th ed. is already abstracted as CIS 80-1496). Many formulae and tables are included, and all of German OSH legislation is covered. (69981)

CIS 97-1472 Training course for safety representatives: ENI-FULC Agreement, 17 Oct. 1995. (Italian: Corso di formazione per i rappresentanti dei lavoratori per la sicurezza: Accordo ENI-FULC, 17 ottobre 1995) ENI, Piazzale Enrico Mattei, 1 - 00144 Roma, Italy, 1996. 413p. Illus. (In Italian)

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Manual, consisting mostly of simple charts, and aimed at safety representatives following an OSH course arranged under the aegis of a collective agreement within a large Italian state-owned holding company. Main topics covered: communications and roles within the enterprise concerning OSH issues; trade union relationships; history of Italian OSH legislation; innovations and technical contents of Legislative Decree No.626/94 (see CIS 96-1531) implementing eight EEC Directives concerning OSH; occupational medicine and hygiene; fire and accident prevention; hazard evaluation; environmental protection; future trends. (69983)

CIS 97-1473 Successful health and safety management. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 1997. vi, 97p. Illus. 31 ref. Price: GBP 12.50., ISBN 0-7176-1276-7 (In English)

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This is the second edition of a document (see CIS 92-69 for the first ed.) originally prepared by HSE's Accident Prevention Advisory Unit as a practical guide for directors, managers and health and safety professionals intent on improving health and safety performance. It describes the principles and practices of good health and safety management. Chapter 1 provides an overview of key issues which need to be considered and which are developed in succeeding chapters. These include: effective health and safety policies; organizing for health and safety; planning and implementing health and safety policies; measuring performance; auditing and reviewing performance. In appendices: terminology; organizing for health and safety; reorganization (i.e. economic restructuring); implementation of health and safety management systems; analyzing the causes of accidents and incidents; accident incidence and frequency rates. (69990)

CIS 97-1474 Combined register of specialists of health and safety and environment professionals. Institution of Chemical Engineers, Davis Building, 165-189 Railway Terrace, Rugby CV21 3HQ, United Kingdom, 1997. 69p. Also available from: The Royal Society of Chemistry, Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1V 0BN, United Kingdom., ISBN 1870-343-441 (In English)

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This register lists names and addresses of members of the Institution of Chemical Engineers and The Royal Society of Chemistry who have detailed knowledge and experience in the fields of health, safety and environmental protection. Areas of special interest are listed where available. (69931)

CIS 97-1475 Managing health and safety - An open learning workbook for managers and trainers. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, July 1997. iii, 72p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: GBP 14.95., ISBN 0-7176-1153-1 (In English)

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This workbook provides guidance for managers on the planning and implementation of improved health and safety management. It is arranged in five main sections covering: the need for health and safety and the role of management; reviewing existing policies and the health and safety culture; planning improvements in health and safety and risk assessment; implementation of improvements; and monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of health and safety and management processes. Each section is structured around key activities supported by guidance. (69959)

CIS 97-1476 Health and safety on floating fish farm installations. Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 14p. Illus. (In English)

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This safety and health brochure gives advice on the design, construction and safe use of floating fish farm installations including fish pens or cages, gangways, vehicle ways, land access ways, shelters and associated equipment. Main topics covered: construction and maintenance of installations; provision of guardrails, foot rails and safe working surfaces; safety and rescue equipment; clothing for wet and/or cold weather; shelter; light; electricity; lifting operations and manual handling; welfare facilities; first aid; health risks (dust, veterinary medicines, leptospirosis); diving operations; training and supervision; navigation markers; boats; relevant legislation. (69988)

CIS 97-1477 Health and safety in sawmilling - A run-of-the-mill business?. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iii, 62p. Illus. 72 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-1402-6 (In English)

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This guidance booklet provides guidance to sawmill owners, managers and others on how to improve health and safety standards. Contents: managing health and safety (risk assessment, emergency organization); employee training; safeguarding machinery (hazards associated with different types of saws and other machinery and guidance on control measures); hazards of mechanized sawmilling lines and risk reduction; workplace design and building maintenance; safe use of transport; stacking; slinging and lifting of loads; manual handling; controlling hazardous substances (wood dust, timber treatment); noise control; electrical safety; welfare facilities. (69730)

CIS 97-1478 Good health is good business: Managing health risks in manufacturing industry. Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, [1997]. 31p. Illus. (In English)

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Illustrated guide to the major aspects of health protection at the workplace, aimed at employers. The idea of occupational safety and health measures as part of cost saving is emphasized. Principal topics covered: commonsense approaches to health protection at work; tackling hidden health risks; the true cost of work-related ill health; sources of help for the employer; musculoskeletal injuries at the workplace (survey, case studies, checklist for prevention); respiratory problems (checklist, case study); noise control (case study, survey, checklist). (69670)

CIS 97-1479 Understanding your VDU. (Dutch: Verstandig omgaan met beeldschermen; French: Mieux connaître votre écran) Otte M., Association Nationale pour la Prevention des Accidents du Travail (ANPAT), rue Gachard 88, Boîte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, 1995. 20p. Illus. 6 ref., ISBN 2-87112-030-7 (fr), ISBN 90-70902-33-8 (nl) (In Dutch, French)

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This pamphlet describes the potential risk factors associated with working with visual display units (VDUs) (visual fatigue, muscular discomfort, radiation), and provides guidance on preventive measures: correct positioning of the screen and other equipment, design and positioning of desks and seating, lighting, work organization and relaxation exercises. (69809)

CIS 97-1480 Workshop on the Implementation of Prior Informed Consent (PIC) and related issues of chemical management for countries of the Andean sub-region. (Spanish: Seminario sobre la aplicación del principio de información y aprobación preliminar (IAP) y temas en relación con la manipulación de las sustancias químicas para los países de la sub-región andina) UNEP/IRPTC, Geneva Executive Centre, C.P. 356, 1219 Chatelaine GE, Switzerland, 1994. 1 vol. approx. 60p. (In English, Spanish)

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Report on a subregional workshop organized jointly by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and held in Santa Marta (Colombia) on 27 June - 1 July 1994. The main purpose of the Workshop was to train government representatives from Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela on the ways to implement the London Guidelines for the Exchange of Information on Chemicals in International Trade (see CIS 89-27). In addition to a detailed report on the activities of the workshop, this publication includes country information sheets from the five countries of the region concerning the environmentally sound management of chemicals, including: general survey, existing legislative infrastructure, institutional setting, information management, priority problems and needs and national priorities and action plan for the management of chemicals. In annex: list of participants; list of abbreviations. (69982)

CIS 97-1481 Monitoring strategies for toxic substances. Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iii, 36p. Illus. 18 ref. Price: GBP 6.95., ISBN 0-7176-1411-5 (In English)

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Update of the document previously abstracted as CIS 89-953. Its primary purpose is to explain to non-specialists (particularly employers) how to investigate employee exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace air. Principal topics covered: legislative requirements in the United Kingdom; discussion of exposure limits; inhalation exposure monitoring; approaches to inhalation exposure assessment and monitoring. In annex: factors influencing airborne contaminant concentrations; variables influencing the design of monitoring strategies. (69987)

CIS 97-1482 Fire safety in construction work. Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. viii, 48p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: GBP 8.95., ISBN 0-7176-1332-1 (In English)

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Training guide and manual on fire prevention and fire fighting in relation to construction work in the United Kingdom. Main topics covered: prevention of fires; reduction of ignition sources; general fire precautions; emergency procedures; fire safety in temporary accommodation units and sleeping accommodation. In appendices: enforcement authorities; scope of the Fire Certificates (Special Premises) Regulations 1976; responsibilities for fire safety on a construction site. (69984)

CIS 97-1483 Vibration solutions - Practical ways to reduce the risk of hand-arm vibration injury. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 76p. Illus. 18 ref. Price: GBP 13.75., ISBN 0-7176-0954-5 (In English)

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This guidance booklet presents a series of case studies which illustrate how companies in various industries have reduced the risk of hand-arm vibration injury. The studies are based on three types of control measures: reduction of exposure to vibration, maintaining blood circulation, and health surveillance. A checklist provides an approach to assessing potential vibration problems, and some vibration control techniques are outlined: process redesign; isolation; use of gloves; and use of suppliers' vibration data for new tools. (69729)

CIS 97-1484 A guide to manual materials handling. Mital A., Nicholson A.S., Ayoub M.M., Taylor and Francis Ltd., Rankine Road, Basingstoke RG24 8PR, Hampshire, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 1997. xii, 140p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 14.95., ISBN 0-7484-0728-6 (In English)

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This revised guide (see CIS 94-368 for previous edition) is in two parts. Part 1 reviews legislation and limits on manual materials handling (MMH) in different countries, describes factors that affect the ability to perform these activities, and reviews design approaches to solving MMH problems. Part 2 provides design data for specific MMH activities, and outlines mechanical aids to lifting. New chapters in this edition cover a procedure for designing and evaluating multiple-task MMH jobs, weight and endurance time limits for high-frequency manual handling, and a procedure for determining rest allowances. (69960)

CIS 97-1485 Guidance on the support of salvage faces in coal mines. Health and Safety Commission, Deep Mined Coal Industry Advisory Committee, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iii, 16p. Illus. Price: GBP 9.75., ISBN 0-7176-1376-3 (In English)

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This document provides guidance on the support of longwall salvage faces in coal mines. The design of the support system is described, including factors to be considered in the geotechnical assessment. Additional guidance is given on the design of a support system where rockbolts offer significant support and on routine monitoring of the system. (69942)

CIS 97-1486 Anthrax: Safe working and the prevention of infection. Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 36p. Illus. Price: GBP 7.50., ISBN 0-7176-1415-8 (In English)

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This guidance document supersedes EH 23, published in 1979 (see CIS 80-166). Main topics covered: background information (anthrax is a potentially fatal infection caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, spread from animals to man; the main reservoirs of the disease are domestic ungulates like cattle, horses etc. in certain parts of the developing world; the disease is spread primarily through skin lesions, inhalation and ingestion); prevalence of the disease (most common in Turkey, southeast Asia and West Africa); occupations and processes where anthrax presents a risk (occupations dealing with infected animals, infected animal material and a contaminated environment); risk assessment; control measures against anthrax infection. In appendices: relevant legislation in the UK; clinical features of anthrax; assessment and control of anthrax risks in the importation, transport and storage of textile fibres. (69989)

CIS 97-1487 Elements of ergonomics programs: A primer based on workplace evaluations of musculoskeletal disorders. Cohen A.L., et al., Publication Dissemination, EID, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, 1997. xi, 133p. Illus. Bibl. ref. (In English)

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Contents of this manual describing the basic elements of a workplace programme aimed at preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Management commitment, worker participation and training are addressed, along with procedures for identifying, evaluating and controlling risk factors for WMSDs. The text cites NIOSH ergonomics investigations to illustrate practical ways for meeting programme needs. It includes a "toolbox", which is a collection of techniques, methods, reference materials, and sources for other information that can help in programme development. Main chapter headings: looking for signs of work-related musculoskeletal problems; setting the stage for action; training: building in-house expertise; gathering and examining evidence for WMSDs; developing controls; health care management; proactive ergonomics. (69986)

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CIS 97-1488 Training for safety's sake. Budworth N., Cale T., Safety and Health Practitioner, Aug. 1997, Vol.15, No.8, p.36-38. Illus. 3 ref. (In English)

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Guidance is given on the preparation and presentation of safety and health training. The need to consider the appropriateness of training is emphasized and a systematic training model is proposed based on identification of training needs, design of training, carrying out the training, and evaluating the training. Modular approaches to safety training are described and different training methods are outlined. (69659)

CIS 97-1489 Curtin industrial safety trial: Methods and safe practice and housekeeping outcomes. Harper A.C., et al., Safety Science, Dec. 1996, Vol.24, No.3, p.159-172. 22 ref. (In English)

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Nine work areas in seven companies were selected in Western Australia. Baseline observations continued for a minimum of four weeks and post-intervention observations for a minimum of ten weeks. Observations were conducted by employees and feedback administered jointly by the company and the researchers. The outcome variables were the safe practice rate and the good housekeeping rate. Three out of nine work areas demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in both safe practices and good housekeeping. Three had a significant improvement in housekeeping but a non-significant improvement in safe practices. There was no association between programmes coordinated by employees on the floor versus supervisor-coordinated programmes. The behaviour-based safety programme did not perform as well in this trial as has been reported elsewhere. Further field trials under uncontrolled industrial conditions are needed to better understand the practical usefulness of behaviour-based safety programmes. (69684)

CIS 97-1490 Curtin industrial safety trial: Managerial behavior and program effectiveness. Harper A.C., et al., Safety Science, Dec. 1996, Vol.24, No.3, p.173-179. 16 ref. (In English)

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Behaviour-based safety has been found universally efficacious when evaluated under controlled conditions. The Curtin Trial (CIS 97-1489) aimed to test the general acceptability of behaviour-based safety in Australian industry. A 50% failure rate was observed. Field notes taken in the course of 325 hours of participant observation during implementation of behaviour-based safety in 9 work areas were analyzed qualitatively and categorized. These data were compared with statistical results of the safety programme's effectiveness in improving safe practices and good housekeeping. Nine dimensions of managerial behaviour were associated with programme effectiveness. A relatively small number of studies investigating organizational characteristics and safety have found generally similar social environmental features to those observed in this study. Behaviour-based safety appears to be effective only in organizations with recognizable managerial styles. (69685)

CIS 97-1491 Workers compensation in East Asia. (French: Indemnisation des travailleurs en Asie de l'Est) Taylor G., ICOH Quarterly Newsletter - CIST Bulletin trimestriel, May 1997, p.11-21 (p.22-33 in French). 23 ref. (In English, French)

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The provision of compensation for work-related injury in the countries of East Asia (including Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea) is reviewed. The current situation in relation to the enforcement of ILO conventions is outlined along with responses to work-related injury. A table showing the working population and coverage of compensation schemes in 20 countries reveals that the level of provision in the region varies from comprehensive to almost non-existent. Implications for the future are discussed. (69953)

CIS 97-1492 Occupational health and safety initiatives and trends in Canada, in particular in Ontario. Verma D.K., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, 1996, Vol.40, No.4, p.477-485. Illus. 20 ref. (In English)

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The provision of occupational health and safety in Canada before 1970 is reviewed, and developments since then are discussed, highlighting some important initiatives in Canada in general and in the province of Ontario in particular. The initiatives include: increased recognition of OHS through regulatory activities; activities of sectorial associations; empowerment of workers; standard development through bi-partite (management/labour) consensus; emphasis on OHS training and access to information. (69662)

CIS 97-1493 Occupational safety and health: A method to test the collection of "grey data" by line managers. Falconer L., Hoel H., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.47, No.2, p.81-89. Illus. 14 ref. (In English)

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The trial of a safety and health audit system is described which focuses on information relating to organizational issues and potential sources of failure rather than on quantitative historical data. The system is based on the philosophy of fuzzy logic. The thinking behind fuzzy logic is discussed along with the meaning of the term "grey data" to describe the data collected by the audit. The method used to construct and test the audit in a large manufacturing company is described. Findings are discussed in terms of the audit itself and the participants' view of the process. (69742)

CIS 97-1494 Development and application of a work-process classification. Burr H., Lauridsen J.F., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July/Sep. 1995, Vol.1, No.3, p.269-277. 21 ref. (In English)

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A classification of work processes was developed based on analyses of data from Danish national databases, and work-process data were collected from a sample of employees. An unambiguous, exhaustive work-process classification was then developed where the work process was defined as the transformation of a work object onto a product. To illustrate the application of the classification, work-process data were used to define highly exposed and unexposed groups. The scheme may be used in major general surveys to supplement the exposure information obtained from job and industry classifications. (69757)

CIS 97-1495 Conformity of workers' and occupational physicians' descriptions of working conditions. Hays M., et al., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 1996, Vol.2, No.1, p.10-17. 21 ref. (In English)

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In a study of 17 poultry slaughterhouses and six canneries in France, data were collected from workers describing their own working conditions and from occupational physicians describing conditions at the same workstations. In general, the prevalences of exposures to seven selected working conditions estimated by the two sources were similar. When agreement existed about specific working conditions, the relationships observed between working conditions and workers' health were generally similar for the two sources. When both sources agreed that the worker was exposed to a risk factor, the risk estimation was higher than in cases of discordant judgment. (69758)

CIS 97-1496 Overview of the relationship between organizational and workplace factors and injury rates. Shannon H.S., Mayr J., Haines T., Safety Science, Aug. 1997, Vol.26, No.3, p.201-217. 25 ref. (In English)

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Data from 10 studies examining the relationship between organizational and workplace factors and injury rates were analyzed. Variables studied were classified under 4 headings: joint health and safety committees; management style and culture; organizational philosophy regarding health and safety; and other variables including workforce characteristics. Variables consistently associated with lower injury rates included: training of health and safety committee members; empowerment of the workforce (in general matters); delegation of safety activities; an active role in health and safety of top management; safety training. (69778)

CIS 97-1497 The impact of advances in production technology on industrial injuries: A review of the literature. Blank V.L.G., Laflamme L., Andersson R., Safety Science, Aug. 1997, Vol.26, No.3, p.219-234. 34 ref. (In English)

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Recent studies concerning the impact of advances in production technology on industrial injuries are reviewed. Evidence relating to the frequency, severity and characteristics of injuries is discussed, and factors influencing the relationship between technological development and accidents are identified. Methodological shortcomings are discussed and a research agenda is proposed. It is concluded that while technological change may have positive effects with regard to injury occurrence and may also promote well-being, the conditions and moderating factors enabling favourable outcomes are not yet fully understood. (69779)

CIS 97-1498 The concept of risk and its estimation. (Italian: Il concetto di rischio e la sua stima) Zocchetti C., Della Foglia M., Colombi A., Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1996, Vol.87, No.4, p.330-347. 23 ref. (In Italian)

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In the context of recent Italian Decree 626/94 (CIS 96-1531) concerning the protection of workers, the concepts of risk assessment and adverse health effects are discussed and clarified. An algorithm is proposed for calculating the probability of being exposed to a definite dose. Given that a specific hazard is present (Pr(e/p)) and the probability of occurrence of a health effect as a consequence of that exposure (Pr(d/e)), risk can be defined as a sequence of measurable events, starting with hazard identification and terminating with disease occurrence. In formula: R(d/p)=Pr(e/p)*Pr(d/e). Hazard given by exposure [Pr(e/p)] must be evaluated in the situation under study. For the estimation of the occurrence of adverse health effects [Pr(d/e)] a "direct" estimation of the damage might be conducted through specific epidemiologic studies and "indirect" estimation might be obtained using information either from the scientific literature or check lists and other available data. (69819)

CIS 97-1499 Reporting occupational injuries: The first step. Weddle M.G., Journal of Safety Research, Winter 1996, Vol.27, No.4, p.217-223. 6 ref. (In English)

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In a survey of 372 environmental service workers in five hospitals, 108 (29.2%) recalled having been injured in the previous year, and of these, 42 had not reported one or more injuries. Older workers and those who had worked longer at the same job were more likely not to report an injury. The most commonly unreported injuries were back injuries, soft tissue injuries, and sprains. The most frequently sited reason for not reporting was that the injury seemed too minor. Worker training should include instruction and encouragement in the reporting of workplace injuries. (69857)

CIS 97-1500 Employers' knowledge of the Hazard Communication Standard requirements and the perceived barriers to compliance. Janicak C.A., Journal of Safety Research, Winter 1996, Vol.27, No.4, p.233-239. 6 ref. (In English)

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The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires employers to inform their employees of the chemical hazards to which they are exposed at work. A survey of 59 organizations cited for violations of the HCS showed that the most frequently cited violations concerned provision of a written programme and employee training. The main barriers to compliance were reported to be a lack of available staff and lack of knowledge about HCS requirements. Recommendations for improvement include making use of the compliance resources available through insurance companies, safety organizations and state programmes. (69858)

CIS 97-1501 Occupational classification according to work demands: An evaluation study. de Zwart B.C.H., et al., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1997, Vol.10, No.3, p.283-295. Illus. 31 ref. (In English)

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An existing occupational classification scheme based on six categories of physical and mental work demands and a revised version of the scheme with only four categories were evaluated. Self-reported work demands obtained from a questionnaire survey of 38,921 employees were quantified according to a scale of physical and mental work demands. On the basis of the mean scale scores at group level, both classification schemes showed validity. Classification of jobs into broad categories with similar work demands may be useful in studies of patterns of work-related disorders. (69937)

CIS 97-1502 Protection. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.1, p.683-743. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These five chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine selected issues in personal protection: review of personal protective equipment (PPE) (risk assessment and the selection and use of PPE, hearing protective equipment, respirators, safety helmets, protective footwear, fall protective equipment, eye protection, protective clothing); clothing for work in the cold; protective gloves; international approach to chemical safety; dangerous chemicals (health hazards, supply of risk information). (69787)

CIS 97-1503 Occupational hygiene: Physical, chemical and biological factors. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.1, p.389-681. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These 21 chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine selected issues in occupational hygiene: overview of occupational hygiene practice (preventive action at the planning stage, recognition, evaluation and control of hazards, programme maintenance); exposure limit values and sampling strategies; air pollutants (lung deposition and clearance); fibres; biomonitoring; heavy metal exposure in and around smelters; sick building syndrome; off-gassing from building materials; radiation; noise and vibration; workplace lighting; electromagnetic fields associated with mobile phones and with power production; radiation sources in industry; chemical and biological health risks; carcinogenic substances; organic solvents; gases; microbiological hazards; plant materials and vegetable dust. (69786)

CIS 97-1504 Health and Safety Commission plan of work for 1997/98. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. ix, 56p. (Summary 11p.) Illus. Index. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-1409-3 (In English)

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This report describes the Health and Safety Commission's key objectives for 1997/98, its continuing aims in relation to its statutory responsibilities, and the management of the organization. Key objectives include: implementing the Commission's strategy for small firms; review and revision of regulations and guidance; and taking forward the implementation of a new Directive on the Control of Major Accident Hazards involving Dangerous Substances (COMAH). A summary report is also available. (69932)

CIS 97-1505 NOSA annual report 1997. National Occupational Safety Association (NOSA), P.O. Box 26434, Arcadia, Pretoria 0007, South Africa, 1997. 28p. Illus. (In English)

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This report describes the activities of the National Occupational Safety Association (NOSA) in 1997. Topics covered include: safety and health training; promotion of occupational health; environmental management; international developments; compilation of statistics; company audits and gradings; and the award system for recognition of health and safety efforts. A financial statement for the year is included. (69933)

CIS 97-1506 The costs of accidents at work. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 1997. iii, 52p. Illus. 25 ref. Price: GBP 10.95., ISBN 0-7176-1343-7 (In English)

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Five case studies concerning the cost of accidents at a construction site, a creamery, a transport company, an oil platform and a hospital are presented. Accidents above a minimum level of loss were recorded, and financial and opportunity costs were assessed. In each case, the costs of accidental loss were regarded by management as significant. Results show that it is possible to identify and quantify accurately the costs of preventable accidental loss arising from failures of management control. (Revised edition of CIS 93-1191). (69761)

CIS 97-1507 Preventing absenteeism at the workplace: European research report. Gründemann R.W.M., van Vuuren C.V., European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, 1997. 196p. 48 ref. Price: ECU 34.00., ISBN 92-828-0418-6 (In English)

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This report describes a study of workplace absenteeism and ill-health in Member States of the European Union. Contents: costs of sickness absenteeism; attitudes of national governments, employers' organizations and trade unions; national social security systems; absenteeism statistics; strategies to reduce absenteeism (procedural measures, work-oriented and person-oriented preventive measures, and reintegration measures); models of good practice; conclusions and recommendations emphasizing the need for greater awareness of this problem. (69772)

CIS 97-1508 Guidelines for integrating process safety management, environment, safety, health, and quality. Center for Chemical Process Safety, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, 345 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017, USA, 1996. xiv, 173p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: USD 120.00 in North America, USD 170.00 elsewhere., ISBN 0-8169-0683-1 (In English)

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These guidelines describe a process for the development of an integrated process safety, environmental, safety and health management system based on quality management approaches. Contents: securing support and preparing for implementation; assessment of existing management system; development of a plan; integration framework; testing the implementation approach; tracking progress and measuring performance; continuous improvement; other quality management systems; case study. (69775)

CIS 97-1509 The workplace. Volume 1 - Fundamentals of health, safety and welfare. Volume 2 - Major industries and occupations. Brune D., Gerhardsson G., Crockford G.W., D'Auria D., Norbäck D., International Labour Office (ILO), eds., Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997. 2 vols. xv, 988p. and xii, 860p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: USD 290.00., ISBN 82-91833-00-1 (In English)

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This two-volume manual reviews key health and safety issues in the working environment. Volume 1 covers the fundamentals of health, safety and welfare: the future of work and coping with change; management and organization of work; human factors and ergonomics; occupational safety; physical, chemical and biological factors of occupational hygiene; personal protection; occupational medicine. Volume 2 examines issues in specific industries and occupations: service sector; visual display units; transport; process industry; manufacturing industry; construction; agriculture, horticulture and forestry; the marine environment. (69781)

CIS 97-1510 The future. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.1, p.1-34. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These three chapters in a major new survey of OSH identify recent changes in the workplace and examine their implications for the future of health and safety practice: a new world of work (emerging world systems, global standards, managerial strategies, training needs); the workplace and the external environment (exposure to chemicals, reducing environmental hazards); coping with change and new technologies (human factors and ergonomics, the role of occupational safety and health professionals). (69782)

CIS 97-1511 Occupational safety. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.1, p.221-388. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These 13 chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine selected issues of occupational safety: development of accident perception; occupational and major accidents (accident and risk perception and measurement, accident information systems); costs of accidents; accident theories and models; feedback control of accidents; feedback control in offshore module fabrication; safety analysis; major accident hazards; implementation of the Seveso directive; fires and explosions; toxic combustion products; bodily hazards from explosions in enclosures; an approach to accident prevention. (69785)

CIS 97-1512 European employment and industrial relations glossary: Netherlands. Van der Heijden P.F., De Gier E., European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, Sweet and Maxwell Ltd., 100 Avenue Road, London NW3 3PF, United Kingdom, 1996; also available from: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. xliv, 267p. 16 ref. Indexes., ISBN 0-421-44790-7, ISBN 92-826-2608-3 (Eu) (In English)

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This dictionary provides detailed definitions and explanations of 544 terms used in the labour relations field in the Netherlands, including terms related to occupational safety and health. Includes a review of economic and legal aspects of labour relations in the Netherlands and some statistics on employment. (69951)

CIS 97-1513 Declaration on occupational health for all. World Health Organization, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1994. 7p. (In English)

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A WHO meeting held in Beijing, People's Republic of China, 11-14 October 1994, discussed and adopted a proposal for a WHO Global Strategy for Occupational Health for All (for the eventual document, see CIS 95-909). Health at work was recognized as a priority issue and ways to achieve healthy working life were set forth in this declaration. (69930)

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CIS 97-1514 Comparison of inter-observer reproducibility between conventional chest radiography and AMBER in the evaluation of silicosis. Gambini G., et al., Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1996, Vol.87, No.4, p.323-329. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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The aims of this study were to test inter- and intraobserver agreement in the diagnosis of silicosis, using conventional chest radiography and Advanced Multiple Beam Equalization Radiography (AMBER). Five readers independently evaluated the radiograms of 115 patients with standard ILO/UC classification scales. AMBER showed a better technical quality of radiograms; inter- and intraobserver agreement was high for the five readers. (69818)

CIS 97-1515 Parental occupational exposure and the risk of testicular cancer in Ontario. Knight J.A., Marrett L.D., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 1997, Vol.39, No.4, p.333-338. 28 ref. (In English)

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Data on the occupational history of the parents of 343 subjects diagnosed with germ cell testicular cancer and the parents of 524 controls were analyzed. Significantly increased risk was associated with fathers who were wood processors, metalworkers, stationary engineers, or employees of the food products, metal products, or food and beverage services industries. There was little evidence of risk associated with maternal employment. Paternal employment before conception in jobs related particularly to metal or food and beverages may be related to testicular cancer risk in sons. (69769)

CIS 97-1516 Neurodegenerative diseases: Occupational occurrence and potential risk factors, 1982 through 1991. Schulte P.A., et al., American Journal of Public Health, Sep. 1996, Vol.86, No.9, p.1281-1288. 66 ref. (In English)

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Data from U.S. death certificates for the period 1982 to 1991 were analyzed, and proportionate mortality ratios were calculated for four neurodegenerative diseases (presenile dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and motor neuron disease). Excess mortality was observed for all four diseases in some occupational categories, including teachers, medical personnel, machinists and machine operators, scientists, writers and clerical workers. Clusters of three diseases were found in occupations involving pesticides, solvents and electromagnetic fields. (69807)

CIS 97-1517 Evaluation of occupational health service in the wood processing industry - Determination of employee satisfaction. Kujala V., Väisänen S., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.47, No.2, p.95-100. Illus. 16 ref. (In English)

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In a questionnaire survey of 546 employees at five wood-processing units served by one occupational health service, 76% of employees were highly satisfied with the quality of health care provided, and 69% were highly satisfied with the personal health information provided. The proportion of highly satisfied employees was higher among those who has used the service within the previous six months compared to the others. Older age groups also reported greater satisfaction. (69744)

CIS 97-1518 Task-based exposure assessment: Analytical strategies for summarizing data by occupational groups. Smith R.W., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1997, Vol.58, No.6, p.402-412. 29 ref. (In English)

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Methods for the analysis of exposure data from task-based surveys conducted on several workers are proposed. It is assumed that personal exposure measurements are taken on workers over the course of one or more representative workdays, and tasks are recorded simultaneously with exposure measurements. The goal is to provide analytical techniques for summarizing task-level exposure data at the occupational group level. Factors discussed include the choice of the basic data unit, the sampling design, the estimation of task means and variances, and the estimation of the overall mean for an occupational category. A simulation is used to show how the proposed methods perform better than other standard approaches. (69651)

CIS 97-1519 A state-based surveillance system for work-related asthma. Rosenman K.D., Reilly M.J., Kalinowski D.J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.415-425. 24 ref. (In English)

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A surveillance system for work-related asthma instituted in Michigan, USA in 1988 is described and results of the first 6 years of the programme are summarized. Sources used to identify cases included physicians' reports, workers' compensation claims, and reports from hospitals. Between 1988 and 1994, 725 reports of work-related asthma were received; the overall annual incidence rate was 2.9 cases per 100,000 workers. Isocyanates and machining coolants were the two most common causes of asthma. The system has proven successful in identifying new cases of asthma and in identifying workplaces with a high prevalence of workers with respiratory symptoms who may benefit from health interventions. (69693)

CIS 97-1520 International issues in occupational health. Ladou J., Levy B.S., eds., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr./June 1995, Vol.1, No.2, p.76-222. (Special issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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Topics covered in this special issue include: the global economy and occupational health; occupational health policy issues in developing countries; the migration of industrial hazards; information, communication and education; participatory approaches and epidemiology in occupational health research; collaboration between developed and developing countries; international control of occupational and environmental health hazards; international perspective on compensation for occupational diseases; international environmental auditing and site assessment; labour and the environment; the role of international organizations, multinational corporations, and international labour federations. (69753)

CIS 97-1521 A mailed-questionnaire survey of ex-workers: A tool to evaluate the healthy-worker effect in cross-sectional studies. Vanhoorne M.H., et al., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July/Sep. 1995, Vol.1, No.3, p.252-256. 21 ref. (In English)

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In a questionnaire survey of 149 former workers of a viscose-rayon plant who had been exposed to carbon disulfide at work, 89 subjects reported having left the plant for health reasons. These included eye irritation (53.7%), gastrointestinal complaints, complaints concerning the central nervous system and the peripheral nerves, heart or lung problems and skin problems. The average duration of employment decreased significantly with the intensity of exposure to carbon disulfide. Results suggest that the findings of a cross-sectional study of current workers in the same plant may represent underestimates of some conditions, in particular eye irritation. (69755)

CIS 97-1522 Occupational health epidemiology in Africa: Drought on fertile grounds. Loewenson R., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July/Sep. 1995, Vol.1, No.3, p.260-268. 47 ref. (In English)

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A literature survey regarding current occupational health epidemiology in Africa revealed a dearth of published work despite the large numbers of problems and hazards faced. The socioeconomic context of occupational health in Africa is outlined, and issues in the design of occupational health studies are examined, including the nature and accessibility of the populations studied, measurement of morbidity and exposure, design of analytic and intervention studies, and the human and material resources for carrying out such research. Suggestions are made for development of occupational health research and practice in Africa. (69756)

CIS 97-1523 Problem-based learning as a training modality in the occupational medicine curriculum. Felton J.S., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1996, Vol.46, No.1, p.5-11. 19 ref. (In English)

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The method of problem-based learning was applied to the resolution of problems presented by patients referred to a university clinic. Emphasis was on the determination of possible work-relatedness of the syndrome or symptoms presented. Following the usual diagnostic procedures, including occupational history, the resident seeks assistance through consultation with specialists and perusal of the pertinent literature, and ultimately prepares a report for presentation to other residents and faculty members. The knowledge gained from the exercise is considered to be longer-lasting than that attained strictly from lecture attendance. (69821)

CIS 97-1524 Ethical issues for industrial hygienists: Survey results and suggestions. Goldberg L.A., Greenberg M.R., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Mar. 1993, Vol.54, No.3, p.127-134. 9 ref. (In English)

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In a survey of members of the New Jersey Section of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, more than 25% of respondents reported at least one observation of unethical conduct: deliberate overstatement of positive and understatement of negative results, refraining from reporting unethical conduct, failure to share credit on publication, and holding back findings to avoid negative results. These behaviours were attributed to on-the-job pressure, pressure caused by economic implications of the result, and lack of experience. Respondents strongly supported educational programmes and codes of ethics and opposed government regulatory programmes. (69868)

CIS 97-1525 Occupational medicine in Canada and Poland in the 1990s. Zakrzewski P., Guidotti T.L., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1997, Vol.10, No.3, p.237-246. Illus. 6 ref. (In English)

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Similarities and differences in the environmental, demographic and economic characteristics of Canada and Poland are examined and the historical development of occupational medicine in the two countries is described. Current practice in occupational medicine is discussed, focusing on training and certification processes, and a programme of scientific cooperation between Canadian and Polish institutes is proposed. (69934)

CIS 97-1526 Reproductive hazards in the workplace - Mending jobs, managing pregnancies. Kenen R., The Haworth Press Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghamtom, NY 13904-1580, USA, 1993. xvii, 306p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: USD 49.95 (paper USD 19.95)., ISBN 1-56024-154-3 (In English)

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This manual identifies potential reproductive hazards for men and women in the workplace and discusses control strategies. Contents: historical survey of hazardous working conditions which affected women¿s reproductive functioning; review of reproductive hazards for men and women; the impact of the physical and social work environment on pregnant women; hazards in specific sectors (health care, industry, service sector, agriculture, office work, in schools and at home); obtaining information and learning to judge risks and hazards; organizing and lobbying techniques used by women for the reduction of work-related reproductive health hazards; protective legislation. (69846)

CIS 97-1527 Workplace health promotion in Europe: Programme summary. European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, 1997. 40p. 11 ref., ISBN 92-828-0591-3 (In English)

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This booklet summarizes key results from a Europe-wide programme of research, policy development and training for workplace health promotion undertaken by the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions. Contents: development of workplace health promotion in Europe; legislative background; attitudes of employers, trade unions and government agencies; results of a survey of European workplaces; case studies of good practice; identifying priorities for future action; training specification and implementation; other European developments; future prospects. (69771)

CIS 97-1528 Occupational medicine. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.1, p.745-977. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These 20 chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine selected issues in occupational medicine: a forward looking approach to occupational medicine; how workplace chemicals enter the body; basic concepts of toxicology; epidemiology; prevention of musculoskeletal disorders; lung disorders; chemicals and hypersensitivity in the airways; allergy and other hypersensitivity; causes of occupational dermatoses; neurological diseases; occupational cancer; reproductive health; radiation injuries; health effects of noise exposure; vibration-induced disorders; carpal tunnel syndrome; stress-related illness; economic aspects of occupational health; health and safety in a multinational company; occupational databases and the Internet. (69788)

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CIS 97-1529 Is working in greenhouses healthy? Evidence concerning the toxic risks that might affect greenhouse workers. Illing H.P.A., Occupational Medicine, July 1997, Vol.47, No.5, p.281-293. Illus. 70 ref. (In English)

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A review of various sources of information concerning working conditions in greenhouses is presented, with particular reference to the United Kingdom. General health statistics indicate that the most likely health effects of working in greenhouses are immunologic reactions leading to asthma, allergic alveolitis and dermatitis, and irritancy. Epidemiologic studies of greenhouse workers have found evidence of respiratory diseases, carcinogenicity, mutagenicity and reproductive effects. Potential sources of ill-health include plant material, plant diseases and pests, plant protection products and plant extracts. Statistics indicate that the incidence of ill-health among greenhouse workers in the United Kingdom is relatively low. (69644)

CIS 97-1530 Mortality in Danish fishermen. Jensen O.C., Bulletin of the Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine in Gdynia, 1996, Vol.XLVII, No.1/4, p.5-10. 19 ref. (In English)

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This cohort study investigated mortality patterns in Danish commercial fishermen between 1970 and 1985, compared to all economically active men. The population census in 1970 in Denmark was the source of information on individual occupation, age and economic status. Computerized linkage with the Danish Mortality Register gave information about deceased persons' date and cause of death. The standardized mortality ratio (SMR) for all causes among crew members was 1.50, and was highest in the age group 20-34 years (SMR = 2.09). The increased SMR among fishermen was primarily due to deaths by accident other than road accidents (SMR = 5.76), ischaemic heart disease (SMR = 1.27) and causes without information (SMR = 6.44). The SMR due to bronchitis and emphysema among 35- to 64-year-old crew members was 1.96. Among skippers, the SMR for all causes was 1.12. The study confirms earlier findings of a high mortality among fishermen, especially due to accidents, and a slightly increased risk of dying from cancer, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. (69681)

CIS 97-1531 Occupational injuries among fishermen. Jensen O.C., et al., Bulletin of the Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine in Gdynia, 1996, Vol.XLVII, No.1/4, p.11-18. 11 ref. (In English)

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A sample of 187 medically treated injuries among fishermen was the basis for this study. Nearly half the injuries occurred while shooting or hauling fishing gear. The most common injuries were in the upper extremities (48.7%). Twenty-two percent of the injuries occurred while working with winches ropes and wires and about 30% were caused by falls or slips. Seventy-five percent of accidents occurred on trawlers, where the trawl doors (otter boards) are a special hazard. Medical treatment ashore was delayed for more than 24 hours in 35% of the injuries, showing the need for providing optimal treatment facilities on board. Preventive measures should include technical improvements, safety training courses and efforts to enhance the motivation for safe work. The fishermen's proposals for prevention seem to be most useful and should be used to the full extent. (69682)

CIS 97-1532 Work related injuries in Danish fishermen. Jensen O.C., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1996, Vol.46, No.6, p.414-420. 20 ref. (In English)

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In a questionnaire survey of 625 Danish fishermen the overall rate of nonfatal injury was 20.4 per 100 persons per year. There were no significant differences in injury rates in relation to age. Injury rates were higher on large trawlers. The main work activities associated with injuries included hauling and shooting fishing gear and icing fish. Preventive measures should be implemented in all age groups and in all types of fishing vessels. (69843)

CIS 97-1533 Injuries among farm workers in the United States 1993. Myers J.R., Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Apr. 1997. vii, 359p. (In English)

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This report presents statistical data from the 1993 national Traumatic Injury Surveillance of Farmers project. Data include injury estimates by type of farm, status of worker, gender, age group, race and source of injury at the national and regional level, along with injury estimates for each State. An estimated total of 201,081 lost-time work injuries occurred (incidence rate 6.5 injuries/100 full-time workers). The highest injury rates were associated with specialty livestock operations, beef, hog or sheep operations, miscellaneous farming operations, and nursery operations. The leading causes of injuries were livestock, machinery and hand tools. (69940)

CIS 97-1534 Causes of accidents in the construction industry in Hong Kong. Lam S.W., Rowlinson S., Safety and Health Practitioner, July 1997, Vol.15, No.7, p.22-25. Illus. 16 ref. (In English)

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Hong Kong government statistics show that the territory's construction industry has a poor safety record. Causes of accidents which appear to be peculiar to Hong Kong include difficulties in adaptation for new immigrant workers, employment of unskilled workers, overtime work, lack of leadership from top management, poor working attitudes, shortage of factory inspectors, low penalties for breaches of the safety law, inadequate safety education courses, inadequate authority of the Labour Department, and poor site supervision. (69700)

CIS 97-1535 Risk awareness in construction workers: Survey in the region of the Trasimeno lake. (Italian: La percezione dei rischi tra i lavoratori del comparto costruzioni: una indagine nella USL del lago Trasimeno) Romagnoli C., et al., Rivista degli infortuni e delle malattie professionali, July-Oct. 1992, Vol.79, No.4-5, p.415-440. 14 ref. (In Italian)

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This questionnaire survey involved 112 construction workers in central Italy. Among the workplace factors covered by the survey were: risk awareness judgment, adoption of personal protective equipments, physical fatigue and stress. (69812)

CIS 97-1536 Mortality study of oil refinery and petrochemical employees. Tsai S.P., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.448-454. 34 ref. (In English)

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Results of a mortality study of 3803 refinery and petrochemical workers at a U.S. facility are presented. Compared to national and local populations, significantly fewer deaths were observed for all causes combined, all malignant neoplasms, heart disease, nonmalignant respiratory disease, and cirrhosis of the liver among white male employees after 10 years or more latency. The brain cancer rate for this group was nonsignificantly increased; mortality from leukaemia was consistently lower than expected. Factors considered to contribute to this overall favourable mortality include the healthy worker effect, relatively low risks related to the workplace, and the beneficial effects of continuing employment. (69697)

CIS 97-1537 Illness absence at an oil refinery and petrochemical plant. Tsai S.P., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.455-462. 12 ref. (In English)

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Sickness absenteeism data for workers at a U.S. oil refinery and petrochemical plant are presented for 1986-1994. 59% of employees had no illness absence during the 9-year period; 13% had three or more absences. Frequency rate and duration increased with increasing age. Increased illness absence was associated with known health risk factors (smoking, elevated blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity). Analysis of illness absence data may be used to identify absence trends and to develop appropriate medical strategies. (69698)

CIS 97-1538 Historical cohort mortality study of a continuous filament fiberglass manufacturing plant. Chiazze L., Watkins D.K., Fryar C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.432-441. 15 ref. (In English)

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In a mortality study of current and former workers at a continuous filament fibreglass manufacturing plant, standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for white men were near or below unity for all causes of death and for all cancer mortality compared with national and local standards. The slight elevation in the SMR for lung cancer among these men was not significant. A case-control study based on 45 lung cancer cases showed that the lung cancer odds ratio among white men exposed to respirable glass fibres was below unity, as were those for exposure to asbestos, respirable silica, and other substances investigated. None of these exposures suggests an increase in lung cancer risk for this population. (69695)

CIS 97-1539 Historical cohort mortality study of a continuous filament fiberglass manufacturing plant - II. Women and minorities. Watkins D.K., Chiazze L., Fryar C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.548-555. 8 ref. (In English)

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An historical mortality study was carried out on a cohort of 1074 white women, 130 black women, and 494 black men employed at a continuous filament fibreglass manufacturing plant for a minimum of one year between 1951 and 1991. Compared with national mortality, there were no significant excesses or deficits in mortality by cause, including cancer causes, among white women, with the exception of an increase in motor-vehicle accidents. Similarly, no significant excesses were found among black men; standardized mortality ratios for heart diseases and for all cancers combined were below one. (69717)

CIS 97-1540 Safety in places of worship. French M.A., Safety and Health Practitioner, Aug. 1997, Vol.15, No.8, p.20-23. Illus. 4 ref. (In English)

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Potential safety problems in the use of places of worship and their associated buildings are highlighted. Where persons are employed or self-employed to work at these places, they are subject to regulations made under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. Factors considered include fire risk, electrical hazards, access and egress, working alone, adequate maintenance and cleaning, hygiene, fire exit signs, and responsibilities of those using the buildings. (69657)

CIS 97-1541 Home and away. Weston S., Safeguard, July/Aug. 1997, No.44, p.14-16. Illus. (In English)

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Health and safety issues facing home and mobile office workers are examined. It is emphasized that self-employed people should pay more attention to the health and safety aspects of their work, including ergonomic factors and reduction of workload and mental stress. Examples of good practice in mobile office work and telework are outlined. (69825)

CIS 97-1542 Age-related accident risks among assembly workers: A longitudinal study of male workers employed in the Swedish automobile industry. Laflamme L., Journal of Safety Research, Winter 1996, Vol.27, No.4, p.259-268. 22 ref. (In English)

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Age-related accident ratios (ARs) among male assembly workers in the Swedish automobile industry were measured for all accidents aggregated and for six accidents types over a 10-year period, using five age categories and three time intervals. Regardless of accident type, ARs were generally higher among younger workers than older ones. ARs by age cohorts increased over time in four of the six accident situations for assemblers aged 25-34 (35-44 during 1990-1991). Inequalities in risk exposure, labour-market factors, and early deselection from the occupation were identified as significant factors in the age-related differences observed. (69859)

CIS 97-1543 Communication concerning the risks of occupational exposures in pregnancy. Ahlborg G., et al., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 1996, Vol.2, No.1, p.64-69. Illus. 13 ref. (In English)

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General principles for the communication of information concerning reproductive risks to pregnant women in the workplace are outlined and aspects of the communication/counselling process are discussed: risk assessment, the timing of exposure, possibilities for prevention, consequences of the communication, policy making and legislation. Three examples illustrate the use of the risk communication process. (69760)

CIS 97-1544 Women at work. Kapadia L.H., British Medical Journal, 26 Oct. 1996, Vol.313, p.1073-1076. Illus. 4 ref. (In English)

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A synopsis of relevant issues for working women is presented, with special emphasis on the British situation. Medical advances and their potential effects on women at work are briefly described, and specific conditions are examined: backache, psychiatric and psychological problems, menopause and menstrual disorders, pelvic pain and cancer. Potential hazards at work during pregnancy are discussed, including exposure to computer display screens, hazardous chemicals and infections. No hard and fast rules are given for work during pregnancy and the conclusion is that most studies show no adverse outcome in healthy women with a normal pregnancy. (69661)

CIS 97-1545 Risk factors for occupational injuries among older workers: An analysis of the health and retirement study. Zwerling C., et al., American Journal of Public Health, Sep. 1996, Vol.86, No.9, p.1306-1309. 19 ref. (In English)

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In a cross sectional cohort study of 6854 older U.S. workers (51-61 years), occupational injuries were associated with the following: certain occupations (mechanics and repairers, service personnel, labourers); jobs requiring heavy lifting; impaired hearing or vision; jobs requiring good vision. Fewer injuries were associated with self-employment. The importance of a good match between job demands and worker capabilities in older workers is emphasized, especially among those with impaired hearing and sight. (69664)

CIS 97-1546 Fatal injuries in farming, forestry and horticulture 1996-1997. Health and Safety Executive, Field Operations Directorate, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, July 1997. 51p. (In English)

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This report presents an analysis of fatal injuries in agriculture, forestry and associated industries in the United Kingdom for the year 1996-1997, along with an analysis of trends in reportable fatal and non-fatal injuries from 1986 to 1996. (69763)

CIS 97-1547 Agriculture, horticulture and forestry. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.2, p.713-765. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These three chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine health and safety issues in agriculture, forestry and horticulture: occupational accidents and diseases in agriculture; psychosocial factors; mechanization in forestry; chain-saw operations; logging; field maintenance of machinery; the working environment in horticulture. (69795)

CIS 97-1548 Manufacturing industry. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.2, p.435-648. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These 17 chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine health and safety issues in various manufacturing industries: achieving safer products; robot system safety design; small companies; welding (ergonomics and occupational hygiene); conventional lathes, cutters and upright drilling machines; surface treatment and metal finishing; industrial photographic film developing; woodworking; automotive industry; road vehicle repair; the electronics and electromechanical workplace; mining industry; metallurgical industry; glass industry; printing; shipbuilding and ship repairing. (69793)

CIS 97-1549 Construction. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.2, p.649-711. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These seven chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine health and safety issues in the construction industry: brief overview of health and safety requirements in construction work; typical hazards; hazardous materials; asbestos; water based paints; material selection; indoor air quality and costs. (69794)

CIS 97-1550 Structure and functioning of safety committees in major ports in India. Chakrabarti A.K., et al., Industrial Psychology Division, Central Labour Institute, Government of India, Ministry of Labour, Sion, Mumbai 400022, India, 1996. xi, 79p. 8 ref. (In English)

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This report assesses the structural and functional effectiveness of port safety committees in 11 major ports in India, and puts forward measures for their improvement. Recommendations relate to the chairmanship of the safety committee, the size and composition of the committee, frequency of committee meetings, preparation of the agenda and minutes of the meetings, provision of information to the committee, enhancing the involvement of committee members, implementation of committee decisions and a redefinition of committee functions. (69750)

CIS 97-1551 Transport. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.2, p.237-296. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These four chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine health and safety issues in the transport industry: the working environment of professional lorry (truck), bus and taxi drivers (injuries and health, seating design, temperature, air quality, information exchange and processing, noise and vibration, field of vision and lights, crash worthiness, assault protection); railways (occupational risks, electrical safety, work at height, manual handling, health issues); air transportation (working environment of the cockpit and cabin); transport of dangerous goods (packaging, classification, labelling). (69791)

CIS 97-1552 Process industry. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.2, p.297-433. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These nine chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine health and safety issues in various process industries: power generation; chemical industry; polymers and rubbers; paint industry; pharmaceutical industry; biotechnology industry; food processing industry; paper, pulp and chloralkali industry; tobacco industry. (69792)

CIS 97-1553 Responsible care and related voluntary initiatives to improve enterprise performance on health, safety and the environment in the chemical industry. Munn K., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1997. x, 86p. Bibl.ref., ISBN 92-2-110593-8 (In English)

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This report describes the current status of voluntary initiatives within the chemical industry for improving environmental performance. The initiatives fall into three categories: Responsible Care, a unilateral initiative of the chemical industry addressing all aspects of chemical products and operations; national voluntary initiatives, typically agreed between industry and government, establishing a schedule of reduced emissions; and environmental management systems and the development of standards by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The future success of these methods requires further action to enhance their credibility, and increased participation by workers and other non-management stakeholders. (69860)

CIS 97-1554 Uses and resources of natural gas. Siddique A., Landers D., Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. xii, 65p. Illus. 37 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-1396-8 (In English)

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This report discusses current and future sources and uses of natural gas in the United Kingdom and outlines safety considerations. Current uses are dominated by power generation and domestic consumption. Minor uses include petrochemicals manufacturing and the iron and steel industry. Future major uses of gas could include refrigeration and automotive transportation. The United Kingdoms's own gas reserves are forecast to decline after the beginning of the next century. (69948)

CIS 97-1555 Service sector. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.2, p.1-171. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These 12 chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine selected health and safety issues in the service sector: overview of health issues and the service professions; the indoor environment (indoor air quality, physical factors, sick building syndrome, stress); health care professionals; dental work (mercury exposure); laboratory work; school teaching; theatres and opera houses; music noise in work and the environment; safety aspects of professional sports; military work environment in peacetime; waste management. (69789)

CIS 97-1556 The marine environment. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.2, p.767-848. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These eight chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine health and safety issues in offshore operations and on vessels: management of offshore oil and gas installations; risk and emergency preparedness analysis; blowout; mechanization and automation as environmental factors; accidents and accident prevention; divers; safety on vessels; the fishing fleet and fish farming. (69796)

CIS 97-1557 SCUBA diving - A quantitative risk assessment. Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. ii, 63p. Illus. Price: GBP 35.00., ISBN 0-7176-1398-4 (In English)

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This report examines the principal causes of fatalities in SCUBA (Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) diving incidents in order to quantify the risks to which divers are exposed. Accident causes include: entanglement and entrapment; rapid ascent and air embolism; loss of consciousness for unknown reasons; reckless diving; solo diving; health prior to diving. The majority of fatalities result from two or more sequential events or contributory causes (a procedural error or equipment failure). Recommendations include adequate diver training and safe diving practices. (69950)

CIS 97-1558 Provision of welfare facilities at transient construction sites. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 4p. Illus. 3 ref. (In English)

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Contents of this data sheet: duties of those in control of a transient construction site to provide welfare facilities; planning welfare provision; use of private and public facilities; available options for toilets, washing facilities, rest areas, drinking water and changing areas; examples of facilities provided at some transient construction worksites. (69726)

CIS 97-1559 How HSE assesses offshore safety cases. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, July 1997. 6p. 3 ref. (In English)

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This leaflet describes the process by which the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) assesses offshore installation safety cases prepared under the Offshore Installations (Safety Case) Regulations 1992 (see CIS 93-1339). The management of the assessment is described and action to be taken if a safety case is not accepted is outlined. (69678)

CIS 97-1560 The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992 - Updated to include changes affecting young people and new and expectant mothers. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, July 1997. iii, 20p. 4 ref. (In English)

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This leaflet provides guidance on amendments made to the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992 (CIS 92-1754) as they relate to new and expectant mothers and to young persons. The Regulations include: risk assessment; health and safety arrangements; procedures for serious and imminent danger and for danger areas; information for employees; taking account of employees' capabilities and training; employees' duties; temporary workers; risks to new or expectant mothers; protection of young persons. (69762)

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CIS 97-1561 Dermatologic complaints among visual display unit operators and office workers. Koh D., et al., American Journal of Contact Dermatitis, 1991, Vol.2, p.136-137. 2 ref. (In English)

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This brief communication is in reply to a previous report which found no support for the hypothesis that visual display units cause skin diseases. Results of surveys of skin complaints among office workers and school staff are summarized and suggest that there is no over-representation of dermatologic symptoms among the office employees compared with school staff. The influence of the choice of control group on the interpretation of results is stressed. (69961)

CIS 97-1562 Visual display units. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.2, p.173-235. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These five chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine health and safety aspects of visual display units (VDUs): work posture and muscular load at VDU work (musculoskeletal illness and discomfort, postural load, a reference work posture giving the operator minimum static muscle activity, health consequences of applying ergonomic principles); visual conditions for VDU workplaces; optometric procedures (viewing angle, use of spectacles); electromagnetic fields and noise; psychosocial risk factors. (69790)

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CIS 97-1563 Results of pneumoconiosis examination - Different trends among industries. Shinozaki T., Yano E., Industrial Health, 2 June 1995, Vol.33, No.1, p.23-27. Illus. 2 ref. (In English)

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This report describes yearly changes (1979-1992) in pneumoconiosis patients and pneumoconiosis progression in each industry in Japan, using the statistics compiled by the Ministry of Labour on the basis of the results of pneumoconiosis examinations performed at plants in accordance with the Pneumoconiosis Law (CIS 92-360). The number of workers exposed to mineral dust decreased yearly. The number of subjects with positive findings, the number of new cases with pneumoconiosis, the ratio of positive findings and the incidence rate of pneumoconiosis also decreased. However, there were large differences among industries in the rate of decrease and in the absolute values of the ratios of positive findings. In the sector including metal mining, the number of cases increased, and the ratio of positive findings was 70-79% (compared to 10% for industry as a whole). The ratio of pneumoconiosis with complications, along with the progression ratio, decreased. Overall, the number of subjects with advanced pneumoconiosis and the severity of the symptoms decreased annually. These trends have been obscured in studies that focus on cumulative totals of victims and severity indicators. (69688)

CIS 97-1564 Estimation of asbestos exposure among workers repairing asbestos cement pipes used for conduits. (Japanese: Sekimen semento kan (suidōkan) no shūyen sagyō ni tomonau sekimen bakuro) Kumagai S., et al., Japanese Journal of Industrial Health - Sangyō-Igaku, May 1993, Vol.35, No.3, p.178-187. Illus. 40 ref. (In Japanese)

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Asbestos cement pipes (ACPs) account for 16.2% of all conduits in Japan, although their production was suspended in 1985. When such a conduit is damaged, workers cut off the damaged conduit using a high-speed disk cutter and replace it with a new conduit. This operation develops a cloud of asbestos-containing dust. To establish typical working conditions, an experienced worker cut an ACP in a hole dug in the ground. Dust was sampled at several points both inside and outside the hole. A self-administered questionnaire survey was then conducted among 1,048 men doing conduit repair work. The concentration of asbestos fibres >5µm with 3:1 aspect ratio ranged from 48 to 170 fibres/mL (92 fibres/mL on average) inside and 1.7 to 15 fibres/mL outside the hole. The concentration inside the hole exceeded the ceiling limit (10 fibres/mL) recommended in Japan. A concentration of 92 fibres/mL is equivalent to 0.96 fibres/mL as an 8-h TWA. The number of subjects with experience of cutting ACPs was 849, and their average length of service was 14.2yr. The time spent cutting ACPs was estimated to average 17 d/yr. Only 18.1% of the subjects used respiratory protection. If these workers worked 17 d/yr in cutting ACPs for 14yr and were exposed to 1 fibre/mL of asbestos per day, the life-time excess mortality rate of both lung cancer and mesothelioma could be as high as 30/100,000 (OSHA model). (69689)

CIS 97-1565 Asbestos bodies in sputum of asbestos exposed workers. Scansetti G., et al., Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1996, Vol.87, No.4, p.283-288. 12 ref. (In English)

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The prevalence of asbestos bodies (AB) was determined in sputum specimens, obtained from 220 asbestos-exposed workers who had put in a claim for compensation. The mean duration of exposure was 13 years. The overall AB prevalence was 34%, higher among workers exposed to amphiboles than in those exposed to chrysotile. The highest AB prevalence was among currently exposed textile workers (65.7%). (69813)

CIS 97-1566 Chronic beryllium disease: Diagnosis and management. Rossman M.D., Environmental Health Perspectives, Oct. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.5, p.945-947. 21 ref. (In English)

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Chronic beryllium disease is a pulmonary granulomatosis. Individuals at risk include workers involved in beryllium extraction and in the production of metallic beryllium and beryllium products. Immunologic studies have demonstrated a cell-mediated response to beryllium. Diagnosis depends on the demonstration of pathologic changes (granuloma) and evidence that the granuloma were caused by hypersensitivity to beryllium. Using these criteria, diagnosis of the disease can now be made before the onset of clinical symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment may lead to regression of symptoms and prevention of further progression of the disease. (69827)

CIS 97-1567 Effects on the lung function of exposure to carbon black dusts - Results of a study carried out on 677 members of staff of the DEGUSSA factory in Kalscheuren/Germany. Küpper H.U., Breitstadt R., Ulmer W.T., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 1996, Vol.68, No.6, p.478-483. Illus. 23 ref. (In English)

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The lung function of 677 workers of a carbon black plant in Germany was measured. Among smokers, carbon black dust exposure had a minimal impact on lung function, with a significantly higher incidence of obstructive airway disease (7.3%) than in non-smokers (3.9%). No significant impact of fine dust exposure on lung function could be detected in non-smokers (including ex-smokers) and exposure to fine dust among smokers had less effect on pulmonary function than did smoking. (69922)

CIS 97-1568 Monte Carlo uncertainty analysis of a diffusion model for the assessment of halogen gas exposure during dosing of brominators. Shade W.D., Jayjock M.A., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1997, Vol.58, No.6, p.418-424. 20 ref. (In English)

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Monte Carlo simulation was incorporated into a model for the estimation of worker exposure to halogen gases during dosing of large sacks of a bromine-based biocide (bromo-chloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin) into brominators. Results of the simulation predicted that outdoor transfer operations are highly unlikely to result in total halogen levels greater than the occupational exposure limit. Indoor dosing of brominators in the absence of local exhaust ventilation may generate airborne concentrations of total halogen that exceed the short-term exposure limit. Limited field trials of indoor transfer operations resulted in halogen concentrations well within the distribution of concentrations predicted by the simulation. (69653)

CIS 97-1569 Lactational transfer of volatile chemicals in breast milk. Fisher J., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1997, Vol.58, No.6, p.425-431. 46 ref. (In English)

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A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model was developed to estimate the amount of chemical that a nursing infant ingests for a given nursing schedule and maternal occupational exposure. Human blood/air and milk/blood partition coefficients (PCs) were determined experimentally for 19 volatile organic chemicals and incorporated into the model. In a simulated exposure of a lactating woman to a threshold limit value concentration of an individual chemical, only perchloroethylene, bromochloroethane and 1,4-dioxane exceeded the U.S. non-cancer drinking water ingestion rates for children. Further studies are required to assess the significance of this exposure pathway. (69654)

CIS 97-1570 Measurement of airborne and floor dusts in a nonproblem building. Leese K.E., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1997, Vol.58, No.6, p.432-438. 21 ref. (In English)

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In a year-long study, a four-storey building was monitored with a laser particle counter (LPC) to characterize airborne particle size distributions, a fine particle sampler (FPS) to measure 24h total airborne dust mass concentrations, and a high-volume small surface sampler to assess dust levels on floor surfaces. In comparing FPS and LPC measurements, mean 24h FPS total airborne dust mass measurements proved the most meaningful over the long term; LPC data were useful for the preliminary site evaluations or to locate particle sources. The study provided baseline measurements of airborne and surface dusts in the building. (69655)

CIS 97-1571 Chemical-induced inflammation and inflammatory diseases. Parke D.V., Parke A.L., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1996, Vol.9, No.3, p.211-217. 24 ref. (In English)

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The pathogenesis of chemical-mediated inflammatory states is reviewed. Exposure to certain chemicals (benzene, halocarbons, ketones, nitrosamines, etc) can result in adverse health effects not easily recognized as manifestations of chemical toxicity. Inflammatory states such as hepatitis, nephritis, scleroderma and lupus, are due to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by the chemical. The mechanism of ROS production is described and medical treatment and prophylaxis are outlined. (69665)

CIS 97-1572 Effect of occupational exposure to opiates on the respiratory system. Górski P., Uliński S., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1996, Vol.9, No.3, p.245-253. Illus. 48 ref. (In English)

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The possible mechanisms of the effects of opiates on the respiratory system are reviewed. The known pathophysiology of opiate effects is described, and results of studies on lung function in opiate-exposed workers are summarized. While some cases of bronchial asthma observed in these workers can be explained by the stimulation of opioid receptors in the central nervous system, the possibility of immunological reactions is also possible. Procedures for the diagnosis of opiate-induced asthma are described. (69667)

CIS 97-1573 Elemental carbon-based method for occupational monitoring of particulate diesel exhaust: Methodology and exposure issues. Birch M.E., Cary R.A., Analyst, Sep. 1996, Vol.121, p.1183-1190. Illus. 50 ref. (In English)

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A thermal-optical technique for the analysis of the carbonaceous fraction of diesel exhaust is described, and results of performance evaluation tests are discussed. The technique affords greater sensitivity and selectivity than other methods in the determination of organic and elemental carbon. The method is practical and inexpensive and is suitable for routine exposure monitoring and for evaluation of control technology for diesel particulate matter. (69668)

CIS 97-1574 A field deployable gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer for industrial hygiene applications. Piltingsrud H.V., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1997, Vol.58, No.8, p.564-577. Illus. 18 ref. (In English)

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A commercial transportable gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS) was reengineered by the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to produce a more portable unit which could be moved, set up and operated by one person. The new unit incorporated vacuum technology developed by NIOSH. Its use resulted in a reduction of up to 50% in the size and weight of the machine. Field tests showed that the GC/MS was useful in a range of survey situations involving monitoring of complex mixtures of vapours and gases. (69671)

CIS 97-1575 Workers exposed to thermal degradation products of TDI- and MDI-based polyurethane: Biomonitoring of 2,4-TDA, 2,6-TDA, and 4,4-MDA in hydrolyzed urine and plasma. Dalene M., Skarping G., Lind P., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1997, Vol.58, No.8, p.587-591. 19 ref. (In English)

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Blood and urine samples were collected from 15 factory workers exposed to thermal degradation products of 4,4'-methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI)-based polyurethane glue and to 2,4- and 2,6-toluene diisocyanate (TDI)-based flexible foam. Urine and plasma were analyzed after acidic hydrolysis, and the concentrations of the isocyanates' corresponding amines, 2,4-, 2,6-toluenediamine (TDA), and 4,4'-methylenedianiline (MDA) were determined. Peaks of 2,4-TDA, 2,6-TDA and 4,4'-MDA in urine varied during and between workdays. The individual variation in plasma concentration of these substances with time was small, but between individuals the variation was great. Results demonstrate the value of these biomarkers for assessing isocyanate exposure. (69674)

CIS 97-1576 DMSO/CS₂ mixture: A solvent system for desorption of polar and nonpolar paint solvents from activated charcoal. Lopes D.P., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1997, Vol.58, No.8, p.603-607. 7 ref. (In English)

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A technique is described which allows collection and analysis of a range of volatile organic emissions from automotive painting operations in a single procedure. Glass charcoal tubes were spiked with a mixture of paint solvents dissolved in carbon disulfide (CS₂). The adsorbed compounds were desorbed with either CS₂ or a mixture of CS₂ and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Analysis was carried out by gas chromatography. An extraction solvent consisting of 4% DMSO in CS₂ gave a satisfactory recovery (higher than 80%) for many commonly used paint solvents. This procedure has an advantage over current standard methods that may require multiple extractions. (69676)

CIS 97-1577 Curvilinear relationship between blood lead level and reaction time. Bleecker M.L., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.426-431. 22 ref. (In English)

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A computerized simple reaction time (SRT) test was administered to 78 lead smelter workers, and the relationship between different measures of blood lead and components of SRT performance were investigated. Measures of blood lead included current blood lead (PbB) and mathematically derived blood lead fractions from the environment (PbB-env) and from bone (PbB-bn). Measures of SRT performance were obtained from 44 trials with interstimulus intervals (ISIs) ranging from 1 to 10s. A curvilinear relationship was observed between current blood lead (PbB) and median SRT; the SRT for ISIs between 6 and 10s was the preferred measure. Of the other blood lead measures, only PbB-env was related to components of SRT. (69694)

CIS 97-1578 Assessment of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons during fire fighting by measurement of urinary 1-hydroxypyrene. Moen B.E., Øvrebø S., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.515-519. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)

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Urine samples were obtained from 9 students and 4 teachers at a firefighter training school before and 6 to 7 hours after extinguishing burning diesel fuel. The samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography for 1-hydroxypyrene. A small but significant increase in 1-hydroxypyrene levels was found after fire fighting. Fire fighting may cause exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, some of which are classified as carcinogenic. (69712)

CIS 97-1579 Comparison of in vivo and in vitro measures of beryllium sensitization. Bobka C.A., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.540-547. Illus. 27 ref. (In English)

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Eleven subjects with chronic beryllium disease (CBD), three subjects with beryllium sensitization without disease, and 20 controls were evaluated by means of a questionnaire, an in vitro beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT) (if CBD or beryllium sensitized) and beryllium patch testing with 0.1% and 1% beryllium sulfate in petrolatum and in aqueous vehicles. The 1% aqueous beryllium sulfate proved superior to all other solutions, producing positive reactions in all CBD and beryllium-sensitized subjects. No long-term adverse reactions were observed. The patch test may be safely used to classify the sensitization state and diagnosis of CBD. (69716)

CIS 97-1580 The impact of the COSHH regulations on workers with occupational asthma. Siriruttanapruk S., Burge P.S., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.47, No.2, p.101-104. 16 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 100 consecutive patients attending an occupational lung disease clinic revealed that 28% had undergone a pre-employment screening for asthma, 31% had regular health surveillance by questionnaire, and 19% had regular lung function assessment. Patients who worked after the introduction of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, or worked in larger firms, or were exposed to one of the seven original prescribed agents had a tendency to be provided with more health surveillance than the others. Only 9% of patients had been informed about the risks of getting asthma at work, and only 45% used personal protective equipment. (69745)

CIS 97-1581 A sensitive HPLC method for determination of mandelic acid in urine, and its application to biological monitoring of ethylbenzene-exposed Chinese workers. Inoue O., et al., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July/Sep. 1995, Vol.1, No.3, p.245-251. Illus. 35 ref. (In English)

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A high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed for determination of mandelic acid in urine as a marker of exposure to ethylbenzene at low concentrations. Application of the technique to urine samples from 360 ethylbenzene-exposed workers and 281 unexposed controls showed that the method is highly sensitive and results are reproducible. The detection limit of 0.07mg/L urine is sensitive enough for monitoring of exposures well below one tenth of the occupational exposure limit of 100ppm. Further analysis showed that smoking reduces the excretion of mandelic acid in urine. (69754)

CIS 97-1582 Reduction of toxic substances during the incineration of polymers. (Italian: Riduzione di sostanze tossiche nella combustione di polimeri) Ortaggi G., et al., Prevenzione oggi, Apr.-June 1994, Vol.VI, No.2, p.19-33. Illus. 8 ref. (In Italian)

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Gaseous pyrolysis products of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) have been investigated with and without the addition of ferrocene. Even at the concentration of 1%, this metallocene was able to prevent the production of benzene and of other toxic compounds such as toluene, naphthalene and biphenyl. Ferrocene therefore may prove useful in the thermal destruction of PVC residues in incinerators. (69804)

CIS 97-1583 Methodologies for detecting environmental chemical pollution: The formulation of biological tests. (Italian: Metodologie di rilevazione dell'inquinamento chimico nell'aria ambiente: messa a punto di test biologici) Campanella L., Benvenuti F., Prevenzione oggi, Apr.-June 1994, Vol.VI, No.2, p.35-43. Illus. 17 ref. (In Italian)

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An in vitro experimental technique for the detection of chemical pollution was investigated. The technique is based on measurement of the consumption of oxygen and/or the production of carbon dioxide by microorganisms. Tests on Saccaromyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast) showed that the addition of a toxic substance produced a clear variation in respiratory response after a relatively short time. Results of tests on selected metals and organic substances are presented. (69805)

CIS 97-1584 Phenylmercury and its mobilization in the organism by a metal complex-forming substance: 2,3-dimercapto-1-propane sodium sulfonate. Gomboš B., et al., Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1996, Vol.87, No.4, p.297-304. 25 ref. (In English)

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The urine of 39 workers operating dressing machines for seed treatment with a product containing a chlorophenylmercury fungicide was monitored for urinary mercury excretion. The analyses resulted in concentrations of up to 0.1mg Hg/L of urine. Following i.m. administration to some workers of a single dose of the chelating agent Unitiol, a significantly higher concentration of Hg was found in their urine. Some subjective complaints by the same workers were possibly not due to exposure to chlorophenylmercury, but caused by non-occupational factors. (69815)

CIS 97-1585 Exposure of traffic police to urban air pollutants. (Italian: Esposizione agli inquinanti dell'aria urbana dei vigili municipali) Priante E., et al., Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1996, Vol.87, No.4, p.314-322. 30 ref. (In Italian)

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Exposure to dusts and benzene was investigated in 65 non-smoking traffic policemen in the city of Padua (Italy). The mean personal exposure of the policemen to total dust was 0.44mg/m³. The atmospheric concentration of 1-nitropyrene (the principal component of diesel engine emissions) was 0.28ng/m³. The mean concentration of benzene in the breathing zone was 41µg/m³, a level similar to what the city population at large is exposed to. The mean values of urinary benzene before and after the work shift were similar. Levels of exposure of the traffic policemen to dust and 1-nitropyrene was comparable to other occupational groups with this type of risk. Traffic police exposure to benzene is much lower than that of certain other occupational categories, e.g. those engaged in the distribution of hydrocarbon fuels. (69817)

CIS 97-1586 Measurement of volatile organic compounds in human blood. Ashley D.L., et al., Environmental Health Perspectives, Oct. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.5, p.871-877. Illus. 45 ref. (In English)

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Factors to be considered in the analytical determination of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in blood are reviewed. Methodological considerations are discussed along with pharmacokinetic factors and reference ranges for VOCs. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that most of the internal dose of VOCs is quickly eliminated, but there is a fraction that is only slowly removed, and these compounds may bioaccumulate. Smoking is the most significant confounder to internal dose levels of VOCs and must be considered when evaluating suspected cases of exposure. (69826)

CIS 97-1587 Human DNA adduct measurements: State of the art. Poirier M.C., Weston A., Environmental Health Perspectives, Oct. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.5, p.883-893. Illus. 156 ref. (In English)

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Human DNA adduct formation (covalent modifications of DNA with chemical carcinogens) is a promising biomarker for investigating the molecular epidemiology of cancer. DNA adducts have been observed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), nitrosamines, mycotoxins, aromatic amines, heterocyclic amines, ultraviolet light and alkylating cancer chemotherapeutic agents. Methodologies and their application in exposure biomonitoring are reviewed, focusing on human blood cell PAH-DNA adduct measurements. DNA adduct dosimetry and correlation of DNA adducts with other biomarkers are also considered. (69828)

CIS 97-1588 Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites in urine as biomarkers of exposure and effect. Strickland P., Kang D., Sithisarankul P., Environmental Health Perspectives, Oct. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.5, p.927-932. 52 ref. (In English)

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The monitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) metabolites in human urine as biomarkers of internal dose is reviewed. Types of PAH metabolites detected are described and the association between metabolite levels and PAH exposure in human studies is discussed. The most widely occurring PAH metabolite is 1-hydroxypyrene-O-glucuronide (1- OHP-gluc). Elevated levels of 1-OHP or 1-OHP-gluc have been demonstrated in smokers, in patients receiving coal tar treatment, in road pavers, in coke oven workers and in subjects ingesting charbroiled meat. Although measurement of these metabolites is useful in assessing recent exposure to PAHs, their value as predictive markers of health outcomes has not been rigorously tested. (69829)

CIS 97-1589 Biomonitoring of 1,3-butadiene and related compounds. Osterman-Golkar S., Bond J.A., Environmental Health Perspectives, Oct. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.5, p.907-915. Illus. 85 ref. (In English)

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Studies on the biomonitoring of butadiene and related compounds are reviewed. Sources of exposure to butadiene (carcinogenic in mice and rats) include cigarette smoke and emissions from butadiene production, storage, transport and use; the most likely route of uptake in inhalation. Biomonitoring is based on chemical analysis of butadiene in exhaled breath, levels of butadiene metabolites (epoxides) in blood and urine, or adducts of metabolites with DNA or blood proteins. Biomonitoring methods need to be developed for diepoxybutane and other reactive butadiene metabolites. (69830)

CIS 97-1590 Laboratory probing of oncogenes from human liquid and solid specimens as markers of exposure to toxicants. Nelson E., Critical Reviews in Toxicology, 1996, Vol.26, No.5, p.483-549. Illus. 397 ref. (In English)

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The suitability of using oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes as markers of cancer in occupational settings is discussed. Most types of human malignancies have been found to contain an altered ras gene, and there is also mounting evidence of chemical-specific alterations of the p53 tumour suppressor gene detected in most human tumours. Studies of p53 and ras genes in relation to occupational exposure are reviewed and methods for the laboratory detection of these genes are described. It is proposed that identification of both altered p53 and ras genes may be used as biomarkers of human chronic or intermittent occupational exposure to toxicants. (69831)

CIS 97-1591 Emergency response to environmental toxic incidents: The role of the occupational physician. McCunney R.J., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1996, Vol.46, No.6, p.397-401. 18 ref. (In English)

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Response systems for incidents resulting in accidental environmental releases of hazardous chemicals in the USA are described. Sectors involved in this response include the federal government, the chemical industry, the hospital sector, and professional societies of industrial physicians and others. The role of the industrial physician includes: becoming familiar with computerized sources of information on hazardous substances and their medical management; ensuring that appropriate medical resources are available; participation in training sessions and in local planning committees. (69841)

CIS 97-1592 Indirect validation of benzene exposure assessment by association with benzene poisoning. Dosemeci M., et al., Environmental Health Perspectives, Dec. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.6, p.1343-1347. Illus. 23 ref. (In English)

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In an earlier cohort study, historical estimates of benzene exposure between 1949 and 1987 were developed for 74,828 workers employed in 672 factories in 12 cities in China; exposure estimates were made for 18,435 factory/work unit/job title combinations. The highest time-weighted average exposures were observed in the rubber industry (30.7ppm) and for rubber glue applicators (52.6ppm). A strong positive association was observed between benzene poisoning and various measures of benzene exposure, especially recent intensity of exposure. Results provide confidence in the validity of the exposure assessment method used in the cohort study. (69848)

CIS 97-1593 Methyl bromide intoxication during grain store fumigation. Deschamps F.J., Turpin J.C., Occupational Medicine, 1996, Vol.46, No.1, p.3-4. 6 ref. (In English)

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Over 300 cases of methyl bromide poisoning are reported in the literature. This case report demonstrates the marked toxicity of methyl bromide with the potential to cause long-term neurological damage. Two fumigation workers (equipped with rapidly saturable respiratory cartridges) entered a building where the concentration of methyl bromide was 17g/m³, almost 1000 times the recommended limit (20mg/m³). They rapidly became unwell, complaining of nausea and shortness of breath, followed by generalized convulsions in the case of one of them; five months later this man was still bedridden. A relationship between methyl bromide exposure and neurological damage was shown by the bromide levels in the blood of the most seriously injured worker and in the activated charcoal cartridge of his respirator. (69921)

CIS 97-1594 Occupational health data as a basis for process engineering changes: Development of a safe work environment in the sodium azide industry. Rippen H.E., et al., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 1996, Vol.68, No.6, p.459-468. Illus. 10 ref. (In English)

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Sodium azide is mainly used for automobile air bags. It is manufactured as a very fine powder, making exposure control difficult. Occupational health assessment of a plant and its employees demonstrated the need for exposure control, based on inspection, interviews, health data, process and site review. A second phase included targeted studies on the health effects of azide exposure. A third phase of occupational health surveillance consisted of the monitoring of temporal changes. As a result of the introduction of the surveillance system there were: (1) reductions in the incidence of subjective symptoms (e.g. headaches), (2) reductions in the incidence of objective signs (reduced arterial blood pressures), and (3) reductions in air azide levels. (69923)

CIS 97-1595 Prevention of risks from occupational exposure to antineoplastic drugs. Consensus document. (Italian: Prevenzione dei rischi da esposizione professionale a chemoterapici antiblastici. Documento di consenso) Alessio L., et al., Medicina del lavoro, May-June 1996, Vol.87, No.3, p.194-200 (Italian), 201-206 (English). (In English, Italian)

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This consensus document prepared by Italian research institutes deals with the pathological effects of antineoplastic drugs in patients and occupationally exposed subjects. Preventive measures are discussed, including exposure assessment, health surveillance of workers and guidance for workers' protection (information and training programmes). A particular hazard is that of deformed foetuses, due to the teratogenic effects of these drugs on exposed pregnant women. The importance of preventive measures in the pharmaceutical industry is stressed, in particular those applying to packaging and storage of these products. (69924)

CIS 97-1596 Adverse effects of exposure in the production, handling and administration of antineoplastic drugs. (Italian: Effetti patologici causati da chemioterapici antiblastici nei lavoratori addetti alla loro produzione, preparazione o somministrazione) Merler E., Villa L., Lucchini R., Medicina del lavoro, May-June 1996, Vol.87, No.3, p.207-221. 42 ref. (In Italian)

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Many antineoplastic drugs are carcinogenic or mutagenic in humans. This study concerns the increased risk of cancer for workers handling such drugs. Among women workers there is an increased risk of spontaneous abortions and offspring malformations. This is an important effect, since the majority of health care workers exposed to antineoplastic drugs are women. Adequate protective equipment during the production and administration of these drugs and suitable preventive educational programmes are necessary for these workers. (69925)

CIS 97-1597 Cytogenetic indicators of genotoxicity in subjects occupationally exposed to antineoplastic drugs. (Italian: Indicatori citogenetici di genotossicità in soggetti professionalmente esposti a chemioterapici antiblastici) Forni A., Bonatti S., Merler E., Medicina del lavoro, May-June 1996, Vol.87, No.3, p.222-229. 34 ref. (In Italian)

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Cytogenetic tests most frequently used to detect early biological effects in people exposed to genotoxic agents are reviewed. In particular, chromosome aberrations, sister chromatid exchanges and micronuclei in lymphocytes are discussed. In hospital or industry workers potentially exposed to antineoplastic drugs the results are contradictory. Investigations involving subjects who have worked under protected conditions have however given negative results for these indicators. (69926)

CIS 97-1598 Criteria and methods for the study of occupational exposure to antineoplastic drugs. (Italian: Criteri e metodi per lo studio dell'esposizione occupazionale a chemioterapici antiblastici) Apostoli P., et al., Medicina del lavoro, May-June 1996, Vol.87, No.3, p.230-254. Illus. 60 ref. (In Italian)

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Risk assessment and exposure evaluation of antineoplastic drugs are discussed from the point of view of environmental and biological monitoring. The problems of exposed health workers (pharmacists and nursing personnel) are emphasized. Guidelines are proposed on the basis of a check list adopted in some Italian hospitals. Work rooms, procedures, types and quantities of drugs and preventive measures must be monitored according to a standardized data collection scheme. Determination of cyclophosphamide, 5-fluorouracil and platinum coordination compounds used as tracers of drug mixtures is recommended in Italian hospitals. In annex: questionnaire for the evaluation of exposure to antineoplastic drugs; analytical methods for the determination of commonly used antineoplastic drugs. (69927)

CIS 97-1599 Guidelines for the health protection and safety of workers handling antineoplastic chemotherapeutic drugs. (Italian: Linee guida per la tutela della salute e per la sicurezza dei lavoratori esposti a chemioterapici antiblastici) Palazzo S., et al., Medicina del lavoro, May-June 1996, Vol.87, No.3, p.255-264. 16 ref. (In Italian)

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Guidelines are proposed to deal with occupational exposure of different categories of workers and tasks regarding the handling of antineoplastic drugs (stocking, preparation, administration, disposal, hood maintenance). Preventive measures should include the centralization of units for the handling of these drugs, employing trained personnel. The latter must use adequate protective equipment and follow standardized working procedures. They should be adequately informed on the risks and appropriate preventive measures. (69928)

CIS 97-1600 Health surveillance of workers handling antineoplastics. (Italian: Sorveglianza sanitaria del personale che manipola antiblastici) Forni A., et al., Medicina del lavoro, May-June 1996, Vol.87, No.3, p.265-267. (In Italian)

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Health surveillance of workers exposed to antineoplastic drugs must be carried out before they start the job and periodically thereafter. Conditions of individual susceptibility have to be considered and blood, renal and liver functions ought to be monitored. In selected cases cytogenetic studies can be carried out. (69929)

CIS 97-1601 Occupational skin ulceration in chrome platers. Williams N., Occupational Medicine, July 1997, Vol.47, No.5, p.309-310. 4 ref. (In English)

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This short report describes the occurrence of chrome ulcer observed on the hands of 13 chrome platers. Contact of hexavalent chrome with the skin only results in a ulcer if there is a cut or abrasion on the skin; a permanent scar is produced. Platers should be informed of the importance of avoiding cuts and of covering any cuts that do occur with waterproof dressings. Personal protective equipment should be used to prevent contact with chromic acid. (69647)

CIS 97-1602 Isolated late asthmatic reaction after exposure to a high-molecular-weight occupational agent, subtilisin. Lemiere C., et al., Chest, Sept. 1996, Vol.110, No.3, p.823-824. Illus. 10 ref. (In English)

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A case is reported of an asthmatic reaction that started after the first hour following exposure to subtilisin (maxatase), a high-molecular-weight occupational agent. The subject had been working in a hospital, washing surgical tools with a liquid containing the proteolytic enzyme subtilisin. Any occurrence of immediate reaction was ruled out by measuring the one-second forced expiratory volume and lung volumes every 10min during the first hour. Specific inhalation challenge with the diluted surgical cleanser containing the enzyme showed the reaction to be an IgE-mediated late asthmatic reaction. (69669)

CIS 97-1603 Stillbirth after exposure to N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone. Bower D.B., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.393-394. 15 ref. (In English)

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This letter is in reply to a previous case report of a stillbirth following occupational exposure to N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) (see CIS 96-1777). The producers of the chemical do not agree with the authors' line of reasoning that links a single stillbirth with an exposure to NMP. They also argue that inaccuracies in the review of animal toxicological data in the article could cause concerns among users of NMP who may consider themselves to be at risk. A reply by the original authors is presented. (69691)

CIS 97-1604 Occupational exposure to antineoplastic agents and self-reported infertility among nurses and pharmacists. Valanis B., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.574-580. 30 ref. (In English)

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The relationship between infertility and chemotherapeutic drug handling was investigated in a group of 405 nurses and pharmacy personnel reporting infertility. Each subject was matched with three controls. Results for the total sample and for women showed a significantly elevated odds ratio for self-reported infertility associated with occupational handling of chemotherapeutic drugs prior to the onset of infertility. For men, the odds ratio was similar, but not significant. The use of adequate protection during the handling of antineoplastic drugs is recommended. (69720)

CIS 97-1605 Exposure to styrene and mortality from nervous system diseases and mental disorders. Welp E., et al., American Journal of Epidemiology, Oct. 1996, Vol.144, No.7, p.623-633. Illus. 41 ref. (In English)

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In an international historical cohort study, mortality from nervous system diseases, mental disorders and suicide was examined in relation to styrene exposure. The cohort comprised 35,443 workers employed during 1945-1991 in the reinforced plastics industry in six European countries (Denmark, Finland, Italy, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom). Exposure indicators were estimated from job histories and environmental and biological monitoring. Mortality from diseases of the central nervous system, especially epilepsy, increased with exposure to styrene. Findings indicate that, in addition to the known acute effects, exposure to styrene may contribute to chronic diseases of the central nervous system. (69810)

CIS 97-1606 Ethylene oxide pathology. (Italian: In tema di patologia da ossido di etilene) Mazzella di Bosco M., Rivista degli infortuni e delle malattie professionali, July-Oct. 1992, Vol.79, No.4-5, p.375-387 40 ref. (In Italian)

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This literature review on the effects of ethylene oxide (EO) exposure covers the following topics: acute intoxication; adverse reactions in patients undergoing dialysis with equipment sterilized with EO; neurological disorders; workplace environmental levels; dermatological, ophthalmological, reproductive and genetic effects; possible carcinogenicity. (69811)

CIS 97-1607 Residual electroneurographic modifications in subjects with n-hexane induced polyneuropathy: A follow-up study. Valentino M., Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1996, Vol.87, No.4, p.289-296. 22 ref. (In English)

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This study reports on the neurological examinations of 90 shoe workers diagnosed with polyneuropathy. The examinations were repeated at least one year after cessation of occupational exposure to n-hexane (the subjects were divided into two groups: 63 had the re-examination less than 10 years after cessation of exposure, while 27 had it after more than 10 years). The aetiologic agent of polyneuropathy was thought to be 2,5-hexanedione, a neurotoxic metabolite of n-hexane. The follow-up study demonstrated a complete recovery of motor conduction velocity in both groups of subjects. On the other hand, even though there was improvement in other neurological functions (conduction velocity and distal latency of the sensory nerves and distal latency of the ulnar nerve) among the subjects in both groups, there was a statistically significant deterioration in these functions independent of the time that had elapsed since cessation of exposure. (69814)

CIS 97-1608 Occupational asthma caused by aromatic herbs. Lemière C., et al., Allergy, 1996, Vol.51, p.647-649. Illus. 8 ref. (In English)

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A case report of occupational asthma is described in a butcher working in an area where spices and aromatic herbs were used during the preparation of meat products. Specific inhalation challenges and skin tests produced positive reactions to several herbs including thyme, rosemary, bay leaf and garlic; garlic was the most potent allergen by weight. These herbs should be considered as agents causing occupational asthma in the food industry. (69832)

CIS 97-1609 Behavioral effects of exposure to organic solvents in carpet layers. Muijser H., et al., Neurotoxicology and Teratology, 1996, Vol.18, No.4, p.455-462. Illus. 28 ref. (In English)

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Neuropsychological tests were carried out at the beginning and the end of a working day in a group of carpet layers working with water-based adhesives (WBAs) and in a group working with contact adhesives (CAs). Exposure to toluene, cyclohexane, ethyl acetate and heptane was evaluated using personal air sampling. The WBA group was exposed primarily to toluene, and the CA group to toluene and other solvents. No evidence of persistent deficits in neurobehavioural functioning was found in the solvent-exposed carpet layers compared to the nonexposed group. (69833)

CIS 97-1610 Clinical features of hematopoietic malignancies and related disorders among benzene-exposed workers in China. Linet M. S., et al., Environmental Health Perspectives, Dec. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.6, p.1353-1364. Illus. 116 ref. (In English)

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A follow-up study of 74,828 benzene-exposed workers and a comparison group of 35,805 nonexposed workers from 12 cities in China involved investigation of medical records, laboratory haematology results and histopathology by expert haematopathologists. There was a notable diversity of malignant and nonneoplastic haematopoietic and lymphoproliferative disorders, and documentation of excess myelodysplastic syndromes among benzene workers. It is recommended that future epidemiologic investigations of benzene workers incorporate similarly detailed morphologic evaluation. (69849)

CIS 97-1611 Does benzene cause multiple myeloma? An analysis of the published case-control literature. Bezabeh S., et al., Environmental Health Perspectives, Dec. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl.6, p.1393-1398. Illus. 28 ref. (In English)

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In a review of population-based and hospital-based control studies published through mid-1995, no increased association was found between multiple myeloma and benzene exposure or surrogates for benzene exposure. Exposures to petroleum products and employment in petroleum-related occupations did not appear to be risk factors for multiple myeloma. Cigarette smoking, as a surrogate of benzene exposure, was not associated with multiple myeloma, while some studies of products of combustion described as "engine exhaust" did show a significant association with multiple myeloma. (69850)

CIS 97-1612 Malignant mesothelioma: Clustering in a family producing asbestos cement in their home. Otte K.E., Sigsgaard T.I., Kjærulff J., British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Jan. 1990, Vol.47, No.1, p.10-13. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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This case study describes the occurrence of three cases of malignant mesothelioma in a family where a compound consisting of amosite, gypsum and sand was produced in the basement of their home from 1944 to 1961. The work involved dry hand mixing of the components and no ventilation or protective equipment was used. The data show a high risk of malignant mesothelioma after massive exposure to amosite. The risk and the latency period are independent of age during exposure. (69867)

CIS 97-1613 Determination of tissue polypeptide antigens (TPA) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in serum: Its value in the preliminary cancer risk assessment in asbestos exposed workers. Lutz W., Krajewska B., Piłacik B., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1997, Vol.10, No.3, p.259-265. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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Serum levels of tissue polypeptide antigens (TPA) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) were measured in 274 workers exposed to asbestos. In 22 workers, TAP values exceeded the cut-off concentrations for neoplastic biomarkers determined in earlier studies of persons not exposed to carcinogenic substances. TPA levels increased with increasing age of the worker, exposure duration and smoking. Determination of TPA levels proved more useful that determination of CEA levels in evaluating the health of exposed workers. (69935)

CIS 97-1614 Effect of leak location on measured respirator fit. Crutchfield C.D., Park D.L., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1997, Vol.58, No.6, p.413-417. 15 ref. (In English)

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In a study to assess how well current respirator fit-test systems detect leakage, known sources of leakage were introduced at three fixed locations on half-mask and full-face respirators mounted on a headform-breathing machine system. Fit-tests were performed with an ambient aerosol system and a controlled negative pressure (CNP) system. The ambient aerosol system detected an average of 37.2% of the known leakage; there were significant differences in leakage measurements as a function of leak location and mask type. The CNP system detected an overall average of 97.9% of the known leakage; results were not affected by leak location or mask type. (69652)

CIS 97-1615 Improved ice arena air quality with the use of a three-way catalytic converter and fuel management system. McNabb N., Kostiuk J., Brauer M., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1997, Vol.58, No.8, p.608-612. 24 ref. (In English)

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Nitrogen dioxide concentrations in an ice arena were evaluated before and after a three-way catalytic converter and fuel management system were retrofitted to a 7-year old ice resurfacing machine. Air sampling indicated an 87% reduction in airborne nitrogen dioxide concentrations after the retrofit. Carbon monoxide levels were also reduced by 57%. It is recommended that this option be used in conjunction with other measures to minimize indoor air concentrations of combustion exhaust gases. (69677)

CIS 97-1616 Environmental management. Hyde P., Safety and Health Practitioner, June 1997, Vol.15, No.6, p.52-55. Illus. (In English)

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Brief guidance is given on the implementation of environmental management in small businesses, with particular reference to the International Environmental Management System standard, ISO 14001. This standard requires companies to identify the aspects of their activities, products and services which may have significant impacts on the environment, and to manage these aspects through the setting of policy objectives and targets and through action programmes. (69740)

CIS 97-1617 The problems associated with pesticide use by irrigation workers in Ghana. Clarke E.E.K., et al., Occupational Medicine, July 1997, Vol.47, No.5, p.301-308. 13 ref. (In English)

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A study of 123 farm workers on three irrigation project areas in Ghana revealed moderate levels of knowledge of the routes of absorption of pesticides and of potential symptoms following exposure. Knowledge of personal protective measures was poor to moderate. High risk practice included frequent handling of the chemicals, home storage of pesticides, and short-re-entry intervals. The prevalence of symptoms was higher and cholinesterase levels lower than in a control group of teachers. Recommendations include training of agriculture and health workers in safety precautions and in the recognition and management of pesticide-related ill health. (69646)

CIS 97-1618 Erythrocyte cholinesterase activity levels in desert farm workers. Gomes J., et al., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.47, No.2, p.90-94. 29 ref. (In English)

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Erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was measured to determine the degree of toxicity due to exposure to organophosphate and carbamate pesticides in 532 migrant farm workers in the United Arab Emirates. AChE levels and haemoglobin adjusted erythrocyte cholinesterase (HAChE) levels were significantly lower in farm workers than in controls; lowest levels were found in those most frequently involved in applying pesticides. Regional differences in the types and amounts of pesticides used were also reflected in differences in AChE and HAChE levels. Results highlight the need for training of these farm workers and use of protective equipment. (69743)

CIS 97-1619 A cohort study of graphite workers in Sri Lanka. Uragoda C.G., Occupational Medicine, July 1997, Vol.47, No.5, p.269-272. 12 ref. (In English)

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A cohort of workers from a graphite mine in Sri Lanka was studied in 1987, 1990 and 1993. Radiographic lesions were found in 8.5%, 8.9% and 4.1% of the workers in these respective rounds. Clinical examination of the affected workers revealed 18 cases of graphite pneumoconiosis and 7 cases of active pulmonary tuberculosis in the 3 rounds. The decline in the prevalence of these diseases in 1993 was probably the result of dust control measures introduced in 1972. Five workers who had worked in the mine for an average of 22.6 years developed graphite pneumoconiosis during the course of the study. (69643)

CIS 97-1620 Elevated serum liver enzymes in coke oven and by-product workers. Wu M.T., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.527-533. Illus. 22 ref. (In English)

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Blood levels of two liver enzymes, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), were measured for 213 steel workers employed for at least three months in two coke-operation work areas, and for 131 unexposed controls. Each work area contained a coke oven and a by-product plant. Airborne levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were also measured. Workers from Area I (shown to have high PAH levels) had significantly higher AST and ALT levels than the control group. Workers from Area II (lower PAH levels) had slightly, but not significantly, elevated AST and ALT levels. Results indicate that heavy exposure to coke oven emissions has adverse effects on the liver. (69714)

CIS 97-1621 A survey of respiratory and dermatological disease in the chrome plating industry in the West Midlands, UK. Williams N., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1996, Vol.46, No.6, p.432-434. 10 ref. (In English)

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A cross-sectional survey of 20 chrome plating plants in the United Kingdom involved a questionnaire survey and clinical examination of 71 chrome platers. 23% of platers had dermatitis at the time of the visits and 45% of companies had at least one case of dermatitis in their plating workforce. 23% of platers had evidence of old chrome ulcers and 13% had evidence of new and healing ulcers. 17% had nasal inflammation and 14% had septal perforations. Lower respiratory symptoms were rare. Preventive measures are discussed. (69845)

CIS 97-1622 Elevated lead contamination in homes of construction workers. Piacitelli G.M., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, June 1997, Vol.58, No.6, p.447-454. 28 ref. (In English)

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Lead exposures were studied among 37 families of construction workers with blood lead levels at or above 25µ/dL and among 22 neighbourhood families with no known lead exposure. The hands of lead-exposed workers were 7 times more contaminated with lead compared with control workers. Levels of lead contamination in automobiles and homes were significantly higher for exposed workers compared with controls. Occupational exposure together with poor hygiene practices were the primary causes of lead contamination. Efforts should be made to ensure compliance with measures intended to prevent lead contamination beyond the workplace. (69656)

CIS 97-1623 Comparison of the mutagenicity of chemical agents released during coke production. Kęsik K., Janik-Spiechowicz E., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1997, Vol.10, No.3, p.267-272. 12 ref. (In English)

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Samples of airborne particulate matter collected in two coke plants were analyzed for their content of genotoxic agents: coal tar pitch volatiles (CTPVs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Mutagenic activity of the compounds was evaluated by in vitro reverse mutation assay. All extracted substances showed mutagenic activity; higher mutagenic activity was observed in samples from the plant using batteries with side charging rather than top charging of coal. PAH concentrations were also higher in plants with side charging. CPTV levels were similar in both plants and were higher than maximum allowable concentrations. (69936)

CIS 97-1624 Airborne aflatoxin in the grain processing industries in India. Ghosh S.K., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1997, Vol.58, No.8, p.583-586. 26 ref. (In English)

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Airborne dust samples were collected from a rice processing plant and a maize processing plant in India. In the rice mill, levels of airborne aflatoxin were always higher in the respirable dust samples than in total dust samples. Airborne aflatoxin was not detected in the control sites of either plant, nor in the total dust samples obtained from the maize plant. Airborne aflatoxin was found in respirable dust samples at three sites in the maize processing plant (the elevator, the loading/unloading area and the oil mill). (69673)

CIS 97-1625 Ventilatory function of factory workers exposed to tea dust. Jayawardana P.L., Udupihille M., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.47, No.2, p.105-109. 11 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of respiratory symptoms and measurements of respiratory function were carried out among 53 employees who had worked in a tea sifting room for at least five years. Compared to a non-exposed control group, the tea workers had a high prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms, and mean values for the spirometric tests were lower. One subject had radiological evidence of bronchiectasis. Chronic tea dust exposure causes increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms and a significant degree of small airways obstruction. (69746)

CIS 97-1626 Occurrence of asthma and chronic bronchitis among female hairdressers - A questionnaire study. Leino T., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.534-539. 36 ref. (In English)

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In a questionnaire survey of 3484 hairdressers and a reference group of 3357 shop personnel in Finland, the prevalence of asthma among the hairdressers was 5.6% in 1980 and 10.1% in 1995; the prevalence of chronic bronchitis was 3.9% in 1980 and 5.6% in 1995. The relative risk for developing asthma and chronic bronchitis among hairdressers was almost twice that of the reference group in 1980, and remained similar in 1995. Hairdressers are at a higher risk of developing asthma as a result of occupational exposure. (69715)

CIS 97-1627 Occupational allergy to latex - Life threatening reactions in health care workers. Report of three cases. Pałczyński C., et al., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1997, Vol.10, No.3, p.297-301. 21 ref. (In English)

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Two nurses and one laboratory worker developed severe allergic reactions to natural rubber latex present in protective gloves. Latex allergy reactions range from mild contact urticaria to severe systemic reactions; serious, generalized reactions occur in 6-8% of patients allergic to latex. Risk awareness should be increased among the major risk groups. (69938)

CIS 97-1628 Validation of the workplace exposure assessment expert system (WORKBOOK). Tait K., Mehta M., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1997, Vol.58, No.8, p.592-602. 28 ref. (In English)

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The development and evaluation of the workplace exposure assessment expert system, WORKBOOK, is described. The system is based on a logic model with rules to enable decisions about the risks of worker exposure to hazardous substances. In the validation study, fifty assessments were carried out at facilities involved in pharmaceutical research and development and the manufacture of drugs and medical devices. Results of the study are discussed and planned improvements to the system are outlined. Guidance is given on the use of WORKBOOK. (69675)

CIS 97-1629 Diethanolamine. Triethanolamine. Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1997. ix, 217p. Bibl.ref., ISBN 3-7776-0781-9 (In English)

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These reports are translations of reports finalized in October and December 1994. Main conclusions: animal studies indicate that diethanolamine is of moderate acute toxicity and causes severe irritation to the skin and eyes; effects on the kidneys and central nervous system have also been observed; epidemiologic studies on workers in contact with cutting oils containing diethanolamine indicated no increase in the mortality rate; triethanolamine causes slight skin irritation in man and may be a weak sensitizer; studies suggest that the substance has no carcinogenic potential. (69641)

CIS 97-1630 Aniline. Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1997. xix, 160p. Bibl.ref., ISBN 3-7776-0779-7 (In English)

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This report is a translation of a report finalized in August 1995. Main conclusions: aniline causes eye irritation and has a weak sensitizing potential; it is absorbed through the skin and is a potent methaemoglobin-forming agent; symptoms of acute aniline poisoning in humans include disturbance of consciousness and cyanosis; animal studies indicate that, apart from the blood, additional target organs include the spleen, liver, kidneys and bone marrow. (69642)

CIS 97-1631 Users' manual for the IPCS Health and Safety Guides. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1996. 127p. Illus. Price: CHF 22.00 (CHF 15.40 in developing countries)., ISBN 92-4-154485-6 (In English)

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This manual summarizes basic information concerning chemical safety that is required for understanding the terms and concepts used in the IPCS Health and Safety Guides. Guidance is given on how the information in the Guides can be used to improve the health and safety of workers. Contents: product identity and uses; exposure, toxicity and risk; measures for the prevention and control of chemical hazards; protection and emergency action; effects of chemical in the environment; regulations, guidelines and standards; obtaining further information. (69801)

CIS 97-1632 1,6-Hexamethylenediisocyanate (1,6-diisocyanatohexane). Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1997. xv, 94p. 171 ref. Price: DEM 80.00., ISBN 3-7776-0767-3 (In English)

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Conclusions of this criteria document, translation of a report finalized in April 1993: the main effect of hexamethylenediisocyanate (HDI) in humans is irritation and sensitization of the respiratory tract; immunological alterations have been observed in persons with HDI hypersensitivity; hexamethylenediamine has been observed in the urine of HDI exposed workers. (69851)

CIS 97-1633 1,2,3-Trichloropropane. Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1997. xv, 97p. 212 ref. Price: DEM 88.00., ISBN 3-7776-0778-9 (In English)

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Conclusions of this criteria document, translation of a report finalized in December 1993: there are no published studies of the acute or chronic effects of 1,2,3-trichloropropane in man; inhalation tests show that a concentration of 613mg/m³ causes irritation of the eyes and throat, but not of the nose; in animal studies, the substance causes irritation of the skin and mucous membranes, damage to the liver and kidneys, and mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. (69852)

CIS 97-1634 Xylidines (dimethylanilines). Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1997. xxii, 187p. 292 ref. Price: DEM 106.00., ISBN 3-7776-0768-1 (In English)

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Conclusions of this criteria document, translation of a report finalized in June 1994: animal studies indicate that most xylidines are harmful to health after single, oral application; 2,4-xylidine is poisonous by inhalation; effects of different isomers in animals include methaemoglobin formation, liver and kidney damage, hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects, and mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. (69853)

CIS 97-1635 1,2-Dichloroethane. Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1997. xxvi, 304p. 555 ref. Price: DEM 120.00., ISBN 3-7776-0769-X (In English)

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Conclusions of this criteria document, translation of a report finalized in December 1994: acute intoxication by 1,2-dichloroethane following inhalation or oral intake is characterized by a prenarcotic stage, followed by depression of the central nervous system, gastroenteric symptoms, cardiovascular disturbances, and respiratory impairment; fatal outcomes are a result of therapy-resistant cardiovascular shock; main systemic effects include damage to the liver, kidneys, lungs, brain and heart. (69854)

CIS 97-1636 Ethyl acetoacetate. Acetone. Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1997. vii, 169p. Bibl.ref. Price: DEM 97.00., ISBN 3-7776-0770-3 (In English)

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Conclusions of this criteria document, translations of reports finalized in June 1995: ethyl acetoacetate is of low acute toxicity in animals; skin tests on humans produced no indications of skin irritation or sensitization; human exposure to acetone at concentrations of 2,400mg/m³ and above causes irritation of the mucous membranes, headache, respiratory complaints and dizziness; adaptation to acetone is expected to occur following repeated exposures; dermal contact produces a local irritative effect (degreasing dermatitis); a sensitizing effect is considered to be unlikely. (69855)

CIS 97-1637 Di(2-ethylhexyl)phosphate, tri(2-ethylyhexyl)phosphate. Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) - Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals of Environmental Relevance (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, P.O. Box 10 10 61, 70009 Stuttgart, Germany, 1997. xviii, 117p. 172 ref., ISBN 3-7776-0780-0 (In English)

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Conclusions of this criteria document, translation of a report finalized in August 1995: no data are available on the effects of bis(2-ethylhexyl)phosphate (BEHP) in humans; skin tests with tris(2-ethylhexyl)phosphate (TEHP) produced no irritation; both substances exhibit a low acute toxicity in animals; in direct contact with the skin and mucous membranes, BEHP is corrosive and TEHP causes moderate irritation; no mutagenic effects have been observed. (69856)

CIS 97-1638 Chemicals management in the Netherlands. Bovenkerk M., Chemicals Division, Ministry of Housing, Spacial [sic] Planning and the Environment, P.O. Box 30945, 2500 GX Den Haag, Netherlands, Jan. 1997. 60p. Illus. 42 ref. (In English)

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This document describes the national system of chemicals management in the Netherlands: organizational structure and legislation; chemical information (identification of new and existing chemicals, data gathering and risk assessment, classification by hazard, evaluation and classification of risk, setting priorities for study and regulation); risk reduction measures and their implementation; monitoring and compliance. (69865)

CIS 97-1639 IARC monographs on the evaluation of carcinogenic risks to humans - Polychlorinated dibenzo-para-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), IARC Press, 150 cours Albert Thomas, 69732 Lyon Cedex 08, France, Vol.69, 1997. ix, 666p. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: CHF 80.00., ISBN 92-832-1269-X (In English)

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This monograph presents the views and expert opinions of an IARC working group which met in Lyon, France, 4-11 February 1997. Overall evaluation: dibenzo-para-dioxin, polychlorinated dibenzo-para-dioxins (other than 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans; 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin is carcinogenic to humans. (69952)

CIS 97-1640 European oil industry guideline for risk-based assessment of contaminated sites. CONCAWE, Madouplein 1, 1210 Bruxelles, Belgium, Apr. 1997. vi, 40p. (In English)

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This report describes a uniform approach to deciding on the corrective action requirements of contaminated oil industry sites in Europe. The approach uses principles of risk-based corrective action whereby the action is appropriately tailored to site-specific conditions and hazards. The three-tired approach involves an initial assessment of the site and collection of data for the Tier 1 assessment. Collected data are compared with risk based screening levels and other criteria. If these criteria are exceeded, further assessment is carried out in Tier 2 and Tier 3 studies. Corrective action techniques are outlined. (69680)

CIS 97-1641 General ventilation in the laboratory. (Spanish: La ventilación general en el laboratorio) Heras Cobo C., Guardino Solá X., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 5p. 4 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note on general ventilation in laboratories discusses thermal and humidity conditions and air renewal in laboratories, paying special attention to the design of equipment. Ventilation systems are also discussed. (69918)

CIS 97-1642 Assessing exposure to rosin (colophony) based solder flux fume. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 2p. 7 ref. (In English)

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Contents of this data sheet: legal requirements for controlling exposure to colophony-based solder flux fume; risk assessment; proposed maximum exposure limits (0.05mg/m³ 8h TWA, and 0.15mg/m³ 15min reference period); monitoring of exposure, including a new standard sampling method based on measurement of the total resin acids in fume from colophony-based solder flux (see CIS 97-1648). (69728)

CIS 97-1643 Nickel and its inorganic compounds: Health hazards and precautionary measures. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Rev.ed., 1997. 7p. 21 ref. Price: GBP 4.00., ISBN 0-7176-1341-0 (In English)

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This guidance note describes the occurrence, properties and use of nickel and its inorganic compounds, their effects on health (lung damage, nervous system effects, asthma, cancer of the nose and lung, skin sensitization, eye irritation), and legal requirements for the prevention and control of exposure: risk assessment; occupational exposure limits; engineering control; personal protective equipment; skin protection; maintenance of control measures; monitoring exposure; health surveillance; notification of reportable disease; information of personnel; and emergency procedures. Replaces CIS 92-259. (69731)

CIS 97-1644 Approved guide to the classification and labelling of substances and preparations dangerous for supply. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 3rd ed., 1997. vi, 55p. Price: GBP 7.95., ISBN 0-7176-1366-6 (In English)

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This revised guide (see CIS 95-1064 for previous edition) sets out the general principles of classification and labelling for supply as required by the Chemical (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) Regulations 1994 (CIS 95-23), as amended in 1997. The main changes relate to: a new R-phrase (R65) and criteria for chemicals which could cause lung damage if swallowed (aspiration hazard); new criteria for the classification of chemicals as sensitizers; and a labelling derogation for propane, butane and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). (69765)

CIS 97-1645 Approved supply list (supplement to third edition) - Information approved for the classification and labelling of substances and preparations dangerous for supply. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. vi, 52p. Price: GBP 7.50., ISBN 0-7176-1378-X (In English)

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This Supplement revises the 3rd edition of the Approved Supply List (see CIS 96-1188) and should be used in conjunction with that document. The Supplement is based on Annex 1 of the Dangerous Substances Directive (67/548/EEC, see CIS 92-23) as adapted to technical progress. New and revised entries are given in full and other minor amendments are listed. (69766)

CIS 97-1646 Approved code of practice for the management of substances hazardous to health in the place of work. Occupational Safety and Health Service, Department of Labour, P.O. Box 3705, Wellington, New Zealand, July 1997. 46p. 27 ref. Price: NZD 20.00., ISBN 0-477-03602-3 (In English)

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This code of practice provides guidance on compliance with relevant sections of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 and Regulations 1995, in order to minimize the risk of occupational illness or injury resulting from exposure to hazardous substances. Contents: application of the code and definitions; responsibilities of employers (provision of information, risk assessment, prevention and control of exposure, monitoring, training and supervision); responsibilities of suppliers, employees and others. (69800)

CIS 97-1647 Controlling health risks from rosin (colophony) based solder fluxes. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, May 1997. 19p. 9 ref. (In English)

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This booklet is aimed at managers of businesses using colophony-based solder fluxes, suppliers of fluxes, and suppliers and users of fume control equipment for soldering work. Contents: health risks associated with exposure to fumes from colophony-based fluxes (asthma, irritation, dermatitis); sources of exposure; legal requirements; exposure prevention by substitution and fume control; protection of the fume control system; exhaust ventilation; use and maintenance of controls; personal protective equipment; health surveillance. (69862)

CIS 97-1648 Resin acids in rosin (colophony) solder flux fume. Health and Safety Executive, Health and Safety Laboratory, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Apr. 1997. 9p. Illus. 23 ref. Price: GBP 12.00., ISBN 0-7176-1363-1 (In English)

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This data sheet describes a method for the determination of colophony-based solder flux fume by measurement of the resin acids in the fume. Principle: a measured volume of air is drawn through a membrane filter mounted in a sampling head; the collected sample is desorbed, evaporated to dryness, and methylated; the resulting solution is spiked with internal standard solution and diluted with toluene, and the total resin acid content is determined using gas chromatography. The method is suitable for sampling over periods ranging from 15min to 8h. (69863)

CIS 97-1649 Cyanide poisoning: New recommendations on first aid treatment. Elliot R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, May 1997. 2p. 1 ref. (In English)

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This data sheet describes hazards associated with the use of three antidotes in the treatment of cyanide poisoning: 'solutions A and B' (ferrous sulphate dissolved in aqueous citric acid, and aqueous sodium carbonate) given orally, amyl nitrate by inhalation, and intravenous dicobalt edetate (Kelocyanor). The Health and Safety Executive concludes that it will no longer recommend the use of any antidote in the first aid treatment of cyanide poisoning and will not require employers to keep supplies. An overall procedure for first aid treatment is outlined along with the administration of oxygen and artificial respiration. (69864)

CIS 97-1650 Information on dangerous products: Chemical safety data sheets. (Spanish: Información sobre productos químicos: Fichas de datos de seguridad) Berenguer Subils M.J., Gadea Carrera E., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 8p. 6 ref. (In Spanish)

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In accordance with the European Commission Directives 88/379/EEC (CIS 91-21), 91/155/EEC (CIS 93-1425) and 93/112/EEC (CIS 94-768), Spanish Royal Decrees 1078/1993 of 2 July and 363/1995 of 10 March approve the regulations for the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances and preparations. With reference to this legislation, this information note discusses how chemical safety data sheets should be compiled. The guide to the compilation of safety data sheets, annex of Directive 93/112/EEC, is included. (69916)

CIS 97-1651 Rosin-based solder flux fume - Criteria document for an occupational exposure limit. Smith A.J., et al., Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. v, 43p. 69 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-1441-7 (In English)

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Main conclusions of this criteria document: rosin (colophony) based solder flux fume is likely to have low systemic toxicity following single exposure; the fume is irritating to the eyes and upper respiratory tract; there are case reports of skin reactions in solderers following contact with solder fume, liquid fluxes or flux residues; occupational asthma is a significant health problem among solderers exposed to solder fume from rosin flux; both sensitization and irritant mechanisms have been reported. Proposed maximum exposure limit: 0.05mg/m³ (8h TWA), 0.15mg/m³ (15min reference period); notation - sensitizer. (69943)

CIS 97-1652 Glutaraldehyde - Criteria document for an occupational exposure limit. Smith A.J., et al., Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. v, 57p. 140 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-1443-3 (In English)

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Main conclusions of this criteria document: glutaraldehyde is a skin irritant at concentrations of 2-10%; animal studies indicate that the substance would cause severe eye irritation in humans; there are reports of upper respiratory tract irritation; glutaraldehyde is a skin sensitizer in humans; concentrations as low as 0.13% have induced allergic contact dermatitis; there is evidence that the substance has the potential to cause asthma. Proposed maximum exposure limit: 0.05ppm (8h TWA); 0.05ppm (15min reference period); notation - sensitizer. (69944)

CIS 97-1653 Measurement of oil mist from mineral oil-based metalworking fluids. Health and Safety Executive, Health and Safety Laboratory, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, June 1997. 6p. 15 ref. Price: GBP 12.00., ISBN 0-7176-1382-8 (In English)

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A method is described for measuring personal exposure to airborne aerosol (oil mist) formed from mineral oil-based metalworking fluids. It is applicable to mineral oils with viscosities greater than 18cSt at 40°C. Principle: a measured volume of air is drawn through a pre-weighed filter mounted in a sampler attached to the lapel of the metalworking machine operator; the exposed filter is reweighed to obtain a total inhalable particulate concentration; if this concentration is greater than 2.5mg/m³ (half the occupational exposure standard), the oil mist concentration is estimated by measuring the filter's weight loss after the oil is extracted into cyclohexane. A sampling time in the range 2 to 8h is recommended. (69957)

CIS 97-1654 Triglycidyl isocyanurate (and coating powders containing triglycidyl isocyanurate) in air. Health and Safety Executive, Health and Safety Laboratory, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, June 1997. 7p. 13 ref. Price: GBP 12.00., ISBN 0-7176-1381-X (In English)

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A method is described for the analysis of time-weighted average concentrations of triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC) and premix and coating powders containing TGIC in air. Principle: a measured volume of air is drawn through a silanized glass fibre filter mounted in an inhalable dust sampler; the sample is extracted using one of two methods depending on whether TGIC is present in air alone or in a premix or coating powder; the resulting solution is analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography with a UV detector. The method is validated between 0.01 and 0.2mg/m³ pure TGIC for sample volumes of 200L. The detection limit for TGIC is typically around 0.18µg per sample (0.9µg /m³ for a 200L volume air sample). (69958)

CIS 97-1655 NIOSH Alert - Preventing allergic reactions to natural rubber latex in the workplace. (Spanish: Alerta NIOSH - Cómo prevenir reacciones alérgicas al látex de caucho en el trabajo) Publication Dissemination, EID, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, 1997. iv, 11p. 49 ref. (In English, Spanish)

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http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/latexalt.html
http://www.cdc.gov/spanish/niosh/docs/97-135sp.html

This NIOSH Alert concentrates on the following aspects of latex allergy: background information (composition of latex, products containing latex, latex in the workplace); types of reactions to latex (irritant contact dermatitis, chemical sensitivity dermatitis, latex allergy); levels and routes of exposure; persons at risk; diagnosing latex allergy; treating latex allergy; how common latex allergies are; case reports; recommendations for prevention (aimed at employers and workers). Principal recommendations: use non-latex gloves when there is little potential contact with infectious materials; when latex gloves are used, prefer reduced-protein, powder-free gloves and remove latex dust from the workplace; educate workers about latex allergy; provide medical monitoring for high-risk workers, with removal of symptomatic workers from exposure. (69985)

CIS 97-1656 Quick selection guide to chemical protective clothing. Forsberg K., Mansdorf S.Z., Van Nostrand Reinhold, 115 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10003, USA, 3rd ed., 1997. vi, 118p. 5 ref. Price: GBP 19.95., ISBN 0-442-02377-4 (In English)

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This guide provides recommendations for the selection of chemical protective clothing materials. Data are provided in the form of colour-coded tables which summarize the chemical breakthrough performance of 16 materials against approximately 600 chemicals. The guide includes an introduction to the selection and use of chemical protective clothing, an index of chemical names and synonyms, a list of relevant standards, and a manufacturers' directory. Replaces 2nd edition (CIS 95-2209). (69711)

CIS 97-1657 Gassing of rabbits and vertebrate pests. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 3p. 6 ref. (In English)

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This data sheet outlines legal requirements for assessing the risks when using moisture-activated gassing compounds for vertebrate pest control in open areas. Contents: alternative methods of pest control; selection of a gassing compound and factors to be included in a hazard assessment; general precautions before and during gassing operations; additional precautions for sodium cyanide and aluminium phosphide; safe storage and transport; emergency procedures. (69725)

CIS 97-1658 Engineering control guidelines for hot mix asphalt pavers. Part 1 - New highway-class pavers. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Publications Dissemination, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Jan. 1997. v, 21 p. Illus. (In English)

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These guidelines concern the use of engineering controls to prevent exposure to asphalt fumes during paving operations. It is recommended that paver manufacturers should develop and install exhaust ventilation systems on all new self-propelled hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavers over a specified size. Information on system operation and maintenance should also be supplied by the manufacturers. A laboratory/factory test procedure for HMA pavers is described. (69847)

CIS 97-1659 The safe isolation of plant and equipment. Health and Safety Commission, Oil Industry Advisory Committee, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 63p. Illus. 4 ref. Index. Price: GBP 10.75., ISBN 0-7176-0871-9 (In English)

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This guidance describes procedures for the safe isolation of process plant and equipment in the onshore and offshore oil and gas industry and in the chemical industry. The procedures are designed to reduce the risk of releasing hazardous substances during intrusive activity. Contents: key principles (essential principles of an isolation scheme, control and management, documentation, implementation); hazards associated with pressurized systems, machinery, electrical equipment, and specific hazardous substances; isolation schemes and methods. (69749)

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CIS 97-1660 Flixborough revisited. Kirkwood A., Safety and Health Practitioner, Aug. 1997, Vol.15, No.8, p.30-33. Illus. 7 ref. (In English)

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The causes and consequences of the explosion at the Flixborough chemical plant in the United Kingdom in 1974 are described, and lessons to be learned from the disaster are discussed. Aspects considered include the nature of legislation implemented after this and similar events, the possible conflict between the need to take account of all potential risks and the desire to maintain production, and the role of management and the establishment of a safety culture within the company. (69658)

CIS 97-1661 Oxygen consumption and ventilation during simulated escape from an offshore oil platform. Ross J.A.S., Henderson G.D., Howie R.M., Ergonomics, Mar. 1997, Vol.40, No.3, p.281-292. Illus. 20 ref. (In English)

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Oxygen consumption and ventilation were measured in 26 offshore oil industry workers performing a simulated escape from an offshore structure. Measured breathing volumes suggest that the level of physical activity reflected by the current European standard for respiratory equipment for use during escape and fire may be considerably below that likely to be met in practice. Thus, smoke hoods and other forms of respiratory protective equipment may impose physical limitations on workers trying to escape from fire. Offshore installations and escape routes should be designed to minimize exercise, and workers should be trained in the use of escape breathing equipment. (69752)

CIS 97-1662 Major hazards and their management. Wells G., Institution of Chemical Engineers, Davis Building, 165-189 Railway Terrace, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 3HQ, United Kingdom, 1997. x, 305p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 85.00., ISBN 0-85295-368-2 (In English)

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Contents of this manual: overview of types of major hazard incidents and methods of consequence analysis; information required to estimate the extent of release of hazardous materials (source terms); gas dispersion; fires (flammability, fire behaviour, thermal radiation hazards); explosions (blast waves, vapour cloud explosions, modelling explosions); toxic hazards; mitigation and emergency plans; process safety management; identifying the root causes of accidents; analysis of some major incidents; safety audits and sociotechnical system review. (69722)

CIS 97-1663 Efficacy of water spray protection against jet fires impinging on LPG storage tanks. Bennett J.F., Shirvill L.C., Pritchard M.J., Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. ii, 418p. Illus. 6 ref. Price: GP 175.00., ISBN 0-7176-1395-X (In English)

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This report describes a full-scale study of the performance of a water spray system on an empty liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tank under conditions of jet fire impingement resulting from a nearby release of LPG. Results show that a water deluge system typically found on an LPG storage tank cannot be relied upon to maintain a water film over the whole tank surface during an impinging jet fire. However, the deluge does have a significant mitigating effect compared with the undeluged case. (69947)

CIS 97-1664 Explosions in gas-fired plant - Reliability analysis of plant. Kay D., Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. vii, 52p. Illus. 12 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-1397-6 (In English)

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This report describes a project to identify the safety-critical features of natural gas and LPG (liquid petroleum gas) fired plant and to develop a safety philosophy for such plant. Analysis of data from 24 incidents showed that explosions arose from many causes, but safety management issues featured more frequently than design aspects. A generic plant layout was developed which formed the basis of a failure modes and effects analysis. Data on component and plant reliability and explosion relief are discussed, and a safety philosophy is outlined. (69949)

CIS 97-1665 Guidelines for use of vapor cloud dispersion models. Center for Chemical Process Safety, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, 345 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017, USA, 2nd ed., 1996. xix, 271p. Illus. 137 ref. Index. Price: USD 140.00 in North America, USD 195.00 elsewhere., ISBN 0-8169-0702-1 (In English)

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This revised manual (see CIS 88-1325 for previous edition) describes techniques for modelling the dispersion of accidental releases of hazardous or toxic materials. Contents: overview of modelling procedures; input data required; source emission models; dispersion models; averaging times, concentration fluctuations and modelling uncertainties; overview of models (computer programmes) in common use; evaluation of models with field data; application of models to some typical accidental chemical release scenarios (includes input and output files on computer diskette). (69773)

CIS 97-1666 Guidelines for postrelease mitigation technology in the chemical process industry. Center for Chemical Process Safety, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, 345 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017, USA, 1997. xii, 175p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: USD 130.00 in North America, USD 180.00 elsewhere., ISBN 0-8169-0588-6 (In English)

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This manual describes current engineering methods for minimizing the consequences of major accidents in the chemical process industry involving the release of toxic vapours or the ignition of flammable vapours. Contents: introduction to post-release mitigation; overview of release scenarios and post-release mitigation; reducing the rate of vaporization of a spilled liquid; use of fluid curtains of water, steam and air; secondary containment; detection of a release and emergency response; use of consequence modelling to evaluate the effectiveness of various post-release mitigation measures. (69774)

CIS 97-1667 Hazards XIII. Process safety - The future. Institution of Chemical Engineers, Davis Building, 165-189 Railway Terrace, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 3HQ, United Kingdom, 1997. xii, 562p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 82.00., ISBN 0-85295-388-7 (In English)

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Proceedings of a symposium on the future of process safety held in Manchester, United Kingdom, 22-24 April 1997. Papers are presented under the following headings: gas dispersion and explosions; modelling fire behaviour; management of safety (emergency planning, managing health and safety during business process re-engineering, walkdown hazard identification for process plant, learning lessons from past accidents, auditing safety management systems); chemical properties and decomposition; risk analysis, risk assessment and standards; chemical reaction hazards; preventive measures. (69721)

CIS 97-1668 The explosion and fires at the Texaco Refinery, Milford Haven, 24 July 1994. Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 65p. Illus. Price: GBP 12.50., ISBN 0-7176-1413-1 (In English)

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This report describes the causes and effects of an explosion at an oil refinery in the United Kingdom in 1994. The incident was triggered by an electrical storm which caused disturbances in several parts of the plant. A combination of failures in management, equipment and control systems during the plant upset led to the release of about 20 tonnes of flammable hydrocarbons which formed a drifting cloud of vapour and ignited. Recommendations are proposed concerning safety management systems, human factors, plant design and modification, inspection systems and emergency planning. (69945)

CIS 97-1669 Fire extinguishing: Checking plan for equipment. (Spanish: Extinción de incendio: plan de revisión de equipos) Pérez Guerrero A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 4p. 2 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note presents, in the form of tables, recommendations for the maintenance and periodic checks of fire protection equipment and systems. Fire alarms, portable fire extinguishers, fixed extinguishing systems and automatic fire protection systems are included. (69913)

CIS 97-1670 Potentially explosive atmospheres: Classification of Class I locations. (Spanish: Atmósferas potencialmente explosivas: clasificación de emplazamientos de clase I) Cejalvo Lapeña A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 6p. 5 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note describes the classification system for locations with potentially explosive atmospheres of class I. Sources of gas, vapour or mist leaks and ventilation systems, including mathematical analysis, are discussed. Reference to Spanish standard UNE 20.322-86. See NTP 369-1995 (CIS 97-1671) for further information. (69915)

CIS 97-1671 Potentially explosive atmospheres: Electrical installations. (Spanish: Atmósferas potencialmente explosivas: instalaciones eléctricas) Cejalvo Lapeña A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 6p. 4 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note presents the basic properties of potentially explosive atmospheres, as well as a classification of locations depending on the type of the flammable substance used or stored (Class I: gases, vapours, mists; class II: dusts; class III: fibers) and gives preventive measures for the use of electrical equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres. See NTP 370-1995 (CIS 97-1670) for further information. (69914)

CIS 97-1672 Prevention of fire and explosion, and emergency response on offshore installations. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 1997. v, 50p. 2 ref. Price: GBP 9.50., ISBN 0-7176-1386-0 (In English)

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This revised guide (see CIS 95-1843 for previous edition) presents the text of the Offshore Installations (Prevention of Fire and Explosion, and Emergency Response) Regulations 1995 (see CIS 95-813), along with a revised Approved Code of Practice and additional guidance. The main changes in the Code relate to factors to be considered when selecting a vessel to provide the recovery and rescue arrangements required by Regulation 17. (69764)

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CIS 97-1673 Occupational fatalities caused by contact with overhead power lines in the construction industry. Janicak C.A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 1997, Vol.39, No.4, p.328-332. 8 ref. (In English)

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Analysis of fatality inspection records from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) showed that, within the construction industry, contact with overhead power lines caused approximately 62% of all electrocution and electricity-related fatalities. The heavy construction, highway and streets construction, painting, and roofing trades had significantly greater proportions of fatalities resulting from contact with overhead power lines than did other construction trades. Prevention measures should include worker training, maintaining minimum clearances to the lines, and the proper use of equipment. (69768)

CIS 97-1674 The selection, installation and maintenance of electrical equipment for use in and around buildings containing explosives. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 10p. 25 ref. Price: GBP 5.00., ISBN 0-7176-1217-1 (In English)

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Contents of this guidance note: site electrical supplies (overhead lines, underground cables); area and building zoning and categorization; selection of electrical equipment for different categories of buildings; siting of electrical equipment; earthing; lightning protection; static electricity; radio frequency ignition hazards; portable electrical equipment; fork lift and other trucks; heating appliances; wiring systems; maintenance and testing of electrical systems and equipment. (69732)

CIS 97-1675 Static electricity: Loading and unloading of road tankers (I). (Spanish: Electricidad estática: carga y descarga de camiones cisterna (I)) Méndez Bernal B., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 5p. 4 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note presents basic concepts on the physics of static electricity generation in the loading and unloading of tank trucks. Flammable substances and electrostatic discharge hazards are also discussed. See NTP 375-1995 (CIS 97-1676) for additional information. (69919)

CIS 97-1676 Static electricity: Loading and unloading of road tankers (II). (Spanish: Electricidad estática: carga y descarga de camiones cisterna (II)) Méndez Bernal B., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 6p. 4 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note presents measures to prevent static electricity hazards in the loading and unloading of tank trucks. Flow velocity, antistatic additives and earthing are discussed. See NTP 374-1995 (CIS 97-1675) for additional information. (69920)

CIS 97-1677 Electrical safety at places of entertainment. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., Aug. 1997. 11p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: GBP 6.00., ISBN 0-7176-1387-9 (In English)

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This guidance note describes the hazards associated with the use of electrical equipment at places of entertainment and provides guidance on: the risks of electric shock; legal requirements; managing electrical safety (assessment and control of risks); and preventing electrical danger in relation to power supplies, power distribution and electrical equipment. A checklist of routine electrical checks for portable apparatus is included. (Replaces CIS 92-615). (69956)

CIS 97-1678 Working safely near overhead power lines. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 2p. Illus. 5 ref. (In English)

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This data sheet outlines measures for reducing the risk of accidents involving overhead power lines during agricultural work. These include: obtaining information from the local electricity company on the location and height of power lines and required precautionary measures; safe systems of work (training, safe use of machinery, minimum clearance); emergency action in the event of an accident. (69724)

CIS 97-1679 Railway safety principles and guidance: Part 2, Section C - Guidance on electric traction systems. Health and Safety Executive, HM Railway Inspectorate, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury CO10 6FS, Suffolk, United Kingdom, 1996. vi, 22p. Price: GBP 6.95., ISBN 0-7176-0711-9 (In English)

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This document provides guidance on the safe design and construction of railway electrical equipment and conductors necessary to power the trains on an electrified railway. Contents: protection of people (protection against unwanted access, warning signs, safety screening); electrical clearances for overhead electrical equipment and conductor rails; safe management and operation of the electric traction system. (69838)

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CIS 97-1680 Magnetic fields of high voltage power lines and risk of cancer in Finnish adults: Nationwide cohort study. Verkasalo P.K., et al., British Medical Journal, Oct. 1996, Vol.313, No.7064, p.1047-1051. 42 ref. (In English)

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In this nationwide cohort study, 383,700 Finnish adults were identified by record linkages of nationwide registers. They all lived at some time during 1970-89 within 500m of overhead power lines of 110-400kV in a 50Hz magnetic field, calculated to be greater than or equal to 0.01µT. The numbers of observed and expected cases of cancer, standardized incidence ratios, and incidence rate ratios adjusted for sex, age, calendar year, and social class were assessed. Altogether 8415 cases of cancer were observed. All incidence rate ratios for both sexes combined were non-significant and between 0.91 and 1.11. Significant excesses were observed for multiple myeloma in men and colon cancer in women. The role of extremely low frequency magnetic fields in the pathogenesis of these tumours remains uncertain and the previously suggested associations between magnetic fields and other selected tumours were not confirmed. (69820)

CIS 97-1681 MR findings in the brain of compressed-air tunnel workers: Relationship to psychometric results. Fueredi G.A., Czarnecki D.J., Kindwall E.P., American Journal of Neuroradiology, Jan./Feb. 1991, Vol.12, p.67-70. Illus. 13 ref. (In English)

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Cranial magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was performed in 30 compressed-air tunnel workers: 19 who had been exposed to various degrees of hyperbaric air, and 11 age-matched, non-exposed controls. Exposed subjects had more than 152 white matter lesions, compared to 22 in the control group; 37% of the exposed group had more than 20 white matter lesions each, while only 18% of the control group had 10 or 11 lesions each. The exposed group also had a higher risk of high-grade lesions. There was no significant difference between the exposed and control groups in the results of five psychometric tests. (69869)

CIS 97-1682 Occupational noise-induced hearing loss. Irwin J., Occupational Medicine, July 1997, Vol.47, No.5, p.313-315. 19 ref. (In English)

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This short report outlines a method for the clinical assessment of employees' hearing based on audiometric testing in the workplace. Guidance is given on carrying out the tests and on the interpretation of results. (69648)

CIS 97-1683 Whole-body vibration exposure and occupational work-hardening. Wasserman D.E., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.403-407. 56 ref. (In English)

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This editorial briefly reviews epidemiologic studies on the association between whole-body vibration (WBV) and back disorders. It considers the use of simulated WBV exposure as part of a therapeutic "work hardening" rehabilitation process for back-injured workers, based on the premise that if workers practice a task, they can remind and retune the associated pool of motoneurons to perform it in a better manner. Occupational therapy treatments and approaches to motor-skill acquisition in the rehabilitation of physical dysfunction are discussed. The authors consider that there is no situation in which WBV exposure can be deemed to be therapeutic, and voice concern at its use as part of a therapeutic work hardening process. (69692)

CIS 97-1684 Effects of vibration on the hand-arm system of miners in India. Dasgupta A.K., Harrison J., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1996, Vol.46, No.1, p.71-78. 29 ref. (In English)

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A study of 66 miners using vibrating jackhammer drills included a questionnaire survey of symptoms and vibration exposure, clinical assessment, and measurements of motor nerve conduction velocities and finger circumference. Complaints of neurological symptoms in the hands were more prevalent in the drillers than in a group of unexposed controls. Clinical examination revealed soft tissue wasting in the hands (26 cases), ulnar nerve impairment (23 cases), median nerve impairment (23 cases) and Dupuytren's contracture (4 cases). Compared to the control group, the motor conduction velocity of the right median nerve in the exposed group was significantly decreased, and finger circumferences were smaller. (69824)

CIS 97-1685 The dangers associated with radiography on construction sites. Jutson J., Safety and Health Practitioner, Sep. 1997, Vol.15, No.9, p.24-27. Illus. (In English)

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Legislation relating to the use of industrial radiography in the United Kingdom is outlined and guidance is given on current best practice for radiation protection on construction sites. Sources and potential levels of exposure are discussed along with the role of radiation protection personnel, training in radiological protection, notification of work, site safety audits, and hazard survey and contingency plans. (69798)

CIS 97-1686 Deposition, retention and dosimetry of inhaled radioactive substances. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814-3095, USA, Feb. 1997. vii, 253p. Illus. 404 ref. Index. Price: USD 40.00., ISBN 0-929600-54-1 (In English)

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This report provides a review of the literature on the deposition, clearance and dosimetry of inhaled radioactive substances in the respiratory tract and on mathematical models used to describe this process. Contents: anatomy, morphometry and physiology of the human respiratory tract; factors affecting normal respiratory tract structure and function; deposition and clearance of inhaled substances; lung model for exposure to radioactive particles; deposition and clearance of nonradioactive substances. (69751)

CIS 97-1687 Acceptability of risk from radiation - Application to human space flight. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814-3095, USA, Apr. 1997. vi, 197p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: USD 30.00., ISBN 0-929600-56-8 (In English)

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Proceedings of a symposium on the acceptability of risk from radiation in human space flight held in Arlington, Virginia, USA, 29 May 1996. Papers cover: the space radiation environment; biology relevant to space radiation; development of radiation protection standards for space activities; analytic concepts for assessing risk in human space flight; approaches to acceptable risk; perception and acceptance of space radiation risk; philosophy on astronaut protection; space flight and radiation limits. (69861)

CIS 97-1688 Safe decompression schedules for caisson workers. Edel P.O., Melton H.E., Department of Hyperbaric Medicine, St. Luke's Hospital, Milwaukee, WI, USA, Dec. 1983. 122p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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This report describes the development and testing of a new decompression schedule for compressed-air tunnel workers. The schedule comprises a set of air decompression tables and a set of decompression tables for intermittent oxygen breathing. The tables were tested on human subjects to determine their safety with regard to decompression sickness and aseptic necrosis of the bone. The report includes instructions and procedures for tunnel workers using oxygen decompression. (69870)

CIS 97-1689 Safe work in confined spaces. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 40p. 23 ref. Price: GBP 7.50., ISBN 0-7176-1405-0 (In English)

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This document provides the text of the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 (CIS 97-1084) along with an Approved Code of Practice and additional guidance. Contents: meaning of confined space and hazards associated with flammable substances and oxygen enrichment, toxic gases and fumes, oxygen deficiency, ingress of liquids or solids, and excessive heat; duties of employers and the self-employed; risk assessment; preventing the need for entry; safe working methods; emergency procedures; plant and equipment; training. (69941)

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CIS 97-1690 Some design principles of horizontal fall protection systems. Riches D., Safety and Health Practitioner, June 1997, Vol.15, No.6, p.17-21. Illus. (In English)

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Basic requirements of fall protection systems are outlined and the horizontal life line system is described. The system provides a continuous attachment for a safety harness in an operator's place of work. Design considerations discussed include: maximum arrest force; ergonomic factors; provision of anchorages to attach the system to the structure where it is needed; stretching cables and energy dissipation; and system testing. (69738)

CIS 97-1691 Ocular trauma in an iron forging industry in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Ballal S.G., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.47, No.2, p.77-80. 21 ref. (In English)

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A total of 193 injuries were reported in an iron forging factory in Saudi Arabia in 1991, of which 77 affected the eyes (incident rate 111.8 per 1000 workers). Highest prevalence rates were found in the 33-42 age group and among the least experienced workers. The majority of accidents were associated with welding, use of pneumatic chisels and projectile foreign bodies. More than one-third of the injured were not wearing eye protection, and negligence was a major contributory factor. Recommendations include a safety training programme and replacement of pneumatic chisels. (69741)

CIS 97-1692 Occupational road trauma and permanent medical impairment. Bylund P.O., Björnstig U., Larsson T.J., Safety Science, Aug. 1997, Vol.26, No.3, p.187-200. 27 ref. (In English)

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Data on occupational vehicle-related accidents in Sweden between 1988 and 1990 were analyzed. The accidents resulted in 466 cases of permanent impairment and 40 deaths. Of the permanently impaired, 55% had only minor injuries, while 76% sustained serious injuries; 37% resulted in permanent decreased work capacity or a change of job. Professional drivers had the highest injury incidence among the different occupational groups, and also had the highest proportion of serious injuries and fatalities. This may be associated with low use of seat belts (16%) compared to other groups where usage was 4-5 times higher. (69777)

CIS 97-1693 Railway safety. HM Chief Inspecting Officer of Railways' Annual Report on the safety record of the railways in Great Britain during 1994/95. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury CO10 6FS, Suffolk, United Kingdom, 1996. xii, 88p. Illus. Price: GBP 12.95., ISBN 0-7176-1047-0 (In English)

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This annual report presents and comments on railway safety statistics in the United Kingdom in 1994-95. Contents: activities of the Railways Inspectorate; accidents to passengers, staff and others; train accidents; accidents at level crossings; fires; equipment failures; safety in the Channel Tunnel, the London underground, and on light rapid transport (LRT) and minor railways; health and safety of workers (inspection and enforcement activities, personnel accidents); research activities; vandalism. Appendices include tables of accident and casualty statistics. (69840)

CIS 97-1694 Preventing injuries from the manual handling of sharp edges in the engineering industry. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 2p. 6 ref. (In English)

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This data sheet identifies activities where contact with sharp edges commonly causes injuries, and outlines legal requirements for the avoidance of injuries, risk assessment factors and control measures. These include: avoiding direct handling of sharp edged items; engineering out sharp edges; covering or protecting sharp edges; use of personal protective equipment; and training and supervision of workers. (69727)

CIS 97-1695 Training and standards of competence for people working with chainsaws. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Rev.ed., July 1997. 5p. 7 ref. Price: GBP 5.50., ISBN 0-7176-1403-4 (In English)

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Contents of this guidance note: legal requirements for the use of chainsaws at work (health and safety training, assessment of risks for young workers); hazards associated with chainsaws (contact with the moving chain, being struck by timber, noise and vibration); training and qualification requirements for particular tasks; selection of chainsaw operators; selection of trainers and supervision of trainees. (Replaces CIS 91-1011). (69955)

CIS 97-1696 Further guidance on emergency plans for major accident hazard pipelines. The Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, July 1997. 29p. 9 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-1393-3 (In English)

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This guidance focuses on the roles of local authorities and pipeline operators in preparing emergency plans for major accident hazard pipelines, as required by the British Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996. The preparation and content of the plans are described along with technical details to be considered: causes and probability of pipeline failure; size and duration of pipeline leaks; hazards and effects of pipeline failure (fire and explosion, toxic effects); hazard range and emergency planning distance; and worst credible, or reference, accidents. A sample framework for these plans is included. (69679)

CIS 97-1697 Railway safety principles and guidance: Part 2, Section A - Guidance on the infrastructure. Health and Safety Executive, HM Railway Inspectorate, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury CO10 6FS, Suffolk, United Kingdom, 1996. vi, 49p. Illus. Price: GBP 9.50., ISBN 0-7176-0949-9 (In English)

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This document provides guidance on the safe design and construction of railway infrastructure. Contents: the track; earthworks, embankments and cuttings; bridges and viaducts; tunnels; clearances between trains and structures; access control; identification of the infrastructure; adjacent highways. In appendices: high-speed lines; infrastructure principles. (69836)

CIS 97-1698 Railway safety principles and guidance: Part 2, Section B - Guidance on stations. Health and Safety Executive, HM Railway Inspectorate, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury CO10 6FS, Suffolk, United Kingdom, 1996. vi, 33p. Price: GBP 7.95., ISBN 0-7176-0713-5 (In English)

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This document provides guidance on the safe design and construction of railway stations. Contents: station platforms and other public and non-public areas and facilities; stairways, steps and ramps; escalators, passenger conveyors and lifts; terminal tracks; fire prevention; sub-surface (including underground) stations. (69837)

CIS 97-1699 Railway safety principles and guidance: Part 2, Section D - Guidance on signalling. Health and Safety Executive, HM Railway Inspectorate, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury CO10 6FS, Suffolk, United Kingdom, 1996. vi, 34p. Price: GBP 7.95., ISBN 0-7176-0953-7 (In English)

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This document provides guidance on the safe design and construction of railway signalling systems. Contents: main functions of signalling systems; choice of system; safe spacing, routing and control of permitted rail traffic; types of signals; control of signalling; degraded operation of signalling systems. In appendices: guidance on specific signalling systems; single-line working. (69839)

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CIS 97-1700 Work-related asthma in a population exposed to grain, flour and other ingredient dusts. Smith T.A., Lumley K.P.S., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1996, Vol.46, No.1, p.37-40. 10 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 3,450 workers exposed to dust during the course of flour milling, bread baking, cake baking and other food preparation activities revealed that the overall prevalence of work-related asthmatic symptoms was 4.4%. In a sub-group of 128 workers with positive responses, non-specific respiratory irritation was thought to be the cause in 90 cases (2.6%), while sensitization was responsible for symptoms in 12 cases (0.3%). In the sensitization cases the agents responsible were fungal amylase, flour and grain. The principal sensitizer encountered in modern plant bakeries appears to be fungal amylase. (69823)

CIS 97-1701 Assessment of occupational risk for hantavirus infection in Arizona and New Mexico. Zeitz P.S., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.463-467. 16 ref. (In English)

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Interviews on work-related activities were conducted among 494 workers (including farmers, labourers, service industry workers) at risk of occupational exposure to rodents infected with the Sin Nombre virus (SNV), the aetiologic agent of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). While blood tests indicated that none of the workers were infected with the virus, most reported handling rodents or working in areas that had rodent excreta. Findings support the need for recommendations to reduce human contact with rodents in the workplace. (69699)

CIS 97-1702 Risk of hepatitis C seroconversion after occupational exposures in health care workers. Puro V., Petrosillo N., Ippolito G., American Journal of Infection Control, Oct. 1995, Vol.23, No.5, p.273-277. 24 ref. (In English)

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The incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroconversion was studied in health care workers who reported an occupational exposure to blood or other body materials from patients known to be seropositive for HCV. During a two-year period 646 exposure incidents were studied. Four HCV seroconversion were observed after hollow-bore needlestick injuries; no seroconversions occurred after other routes of exposure. Blood-filled needlesticks and patient coinfection with human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) was associated with a higher risk of seroconversion. (69968)

CIS 97-1703 The risks of occupational exposure and infection by human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus in the dialysis setting. Petrosillo N., et al., American Journal of Infection Control, Oct. 1995, Vol.23, No.5, p.278-285. 43 ref. (In English)

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A survey of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infection was carried out among 1002 patients in nine dialysis units. A subsequent 1-year surveillance study of percutaneous injuries and skin and mucous membrane contaminations was carried out among 527 health care workers in the same units. The risk of acquiring infection was calculated to be 4000 and 8000 times lower for HIV than for hepatitis B and C, respectively. Compliance with universal precautions and improvements in the design of needles and dialysis equipment are recommended. (69969)

CIS 97-1704 Occupational exposure to hepatitis B virus and human immunodeficiency virus: A comparative risk analysis. Zuckerman A.J., American Journal of Infection Control, Oct. 1995, Vol.23, No.5, p.286-289. 20 ref. (In English)

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Data on the probability of exposure to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B and subsequent seroconversion are reviewed. Mortality and morbidity rates associated with both viruses in health care workers are also examined. A model for the analysis of occupational risk for HIV and hepatitis B is presented and shows that quality-adjusted loss in life expectancy is greater after percutaneous exposure to a patient seropositive for hepatitis B than after exposure to a patient with symptomatic HIV infection. (69970)

CIS 97-1705 Infection risks to new and expectant mothers in the workplace: A guide for employers. Health and Safety Commission, Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 38p. 14 ref. Index. Price: GBP 10.50., ISBN 0-7176-1360-7 (In English)

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Contents of this guide: how infections occur; possible effects of infections in pregnancy; occupations at risk (contact with human blood and body fluids, infected animals, laboratory cultures, water or food contaminated by human or animal faeces); responsibilities of employers and employees; control measures (immunization, information and training); sources of advice. In appendices: legislation; list of infectious microbes, their source, effects in pregnancy, and control measures. (69723)

CIS 97-1706 Medical waste treatment. (Spanish: Tratamiento de residuos sanitarios) del Carmen Martí Solé M., Alonso Espadalé R.M., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 5p. 4 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note discusses the disposal of the different types of medical waste. The classification, collection, transport, storage and elimination of medical waste are addressed. A list of potential infectious diseases in biomedical waste disposal is included. References to European and Spanish legislation are given. (69917)

CIS 97-1707 Code on HIV/AIDS and employment in Southern African Development Community (SADC). International Labour Organization, Southern Africa Multidisciplinary Advisory Team (SAMAT), 1997. 7p. Available from the International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland. (In English)

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This code provides guidance for SADC member states on the development of a tripartite national code on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in relation to employment. The code aims to ensure non-discrimination against individuals with HIV infection. Policy components include: education, awareness and prevention programmes; job access; no compulsory workplace testing and confidentiality; managing illness and job security; occupational benefit schemes; risk management, first aid and compensation; and protection against victimization. (69866)

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CIS 97-1708 Reasons for loss of fitness of dockers to perform physically heavy loading operations. Waśkiewicz J., Bulletin of the Institute of Maritime and Tropical Medicine in Gdynia, 1996, Vol.XLVII, No.1/4, p.19-24. 18 ref. (In English)

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The present evaluation of reasons for dockers' loss of fitness to perform heavy and very heavy loading operations was based on a prospective study comprising a selected population of 508 men, carried out in 1989. A follow-up of their health and ability to perform loading operations continued until 1995. In this period, change of work post caused by health problems was observed in 185 (36.4%) men, 67 (13.2%) people either quit work or were dismissed, 24 (4.7%) subjects were promoted and 80 retired. Twelve dockers died (2.45%); it is noteworthy that no death was associated with the work performed. There were 140 dockers (27.6%) that remained on their posts after 7 years of observation. In the group of 185, the main reasons for medical disqualification from work were diseases of the peripheral nervous and musculoskeletal systems and of the connective tissue (71 men, 38.4%), chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tracts (36 men, 19.4%), circulatory system diseases (24 cases, 13.0%) and post-traumatic states of the musculoskeletal system (16 cases, 8.6%). A proper health qualification is crucial for a long-lasting fitness to work. (69683)

CIS 97-1709 Effect of altered vision on constant load exercise performance while wearing a respirator. Johnson A.T., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Aug. 1997, Vol.58, No.8, p.578-582. 19 ref. (In English)

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In a study of the effect of visual acuity on task performance, 10 subjects walked on a treadmill at 75-80% of their maximum heart rates until their voluntary end points. Subjects wore masks of the same kind, each with a different set of clouded lenses. Performance time was not influenced by measured visual acuity; the average performance rating was considered to be influenced by other mask factors, including respiratory stress, thermal stress, and other vision elements. The lack of influence of visual acuity on work performance at this level of work (moderate to heavy) agrees with Performance Rating Table values published previously. (69672)

CIS 97-1710 Musculoskeletal problems in the tomato growing industry: "Tomato Trainer's Shoulder?". Palmer K.T., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1996, Vol.46, No.6, p.428-431. 10 ref. (In English)

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The frequency of musculoskeletal complaints was investigated among 56 tomato trainers whose work involved highly repetitive shoulder muscle contractions and work at shoulder level. Compared to a control group of other glasshouse workers, the tomato trainers showed a high 12-month and 7-day period prevalence of shoulder complaints. Other upper limb and upper trunk complaints were also more common among these workers, highlighting an area of ergonomic concern. (69844)

CIS 97-1711 The prevention of back injuries in Swedish health care - A comparison between two models for action-oriented feedback. Menckel E., et al., Applied Ergonomics, Feb. 1997, Vol.28, No.1, p.1-7. 26 ref. (In English)

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During a period of a year, physiotherapists from five occupational health and safety units investigated occupational back injuries among health service employees and then fed back information to the workplace according to one of two models: feedback to the ward supervisor, or feedback to work groups. This action-oriented feedback increased employees' awareness and knowledge of the risks of sustaining back injuries in the workplace, and stimulated interest in precautionary measures. Only minor differences were detected between the two models; feedback to both supervisors and work groups generated a large number of proposals for action. (69733)

CIS 97-1712 Costs and benefits of preventing workplace accidents: The case of participatory ergonomics. Lanoie P., Tavenas S., Safety Science, Dec. 1996, Vol.24, No.3, p.181-196. 17 ref. (In English)

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This paper provides a cost-benefit analysis of a participatory ergonomics programme conducted at the beginning of the 1990s to reduce back-related disorders among packers at a warehouse of the Société des alcools du Québec in Quebec City, Canada. After evaluation of the costs of the programme, econometric analysis was applied to assess how many accidents had been prevented by the programme, and the direct and indirect costs avoided as a result of such accident reduction were computed. The programme was indeed profitable for the firm. (69686)

CIS 97-1713 The impact of keyboard design on comfort and productivity in a text-entry task. Swanson N.G., et al., Applied Ergonomics, Feb. 1997, Vol.28, No.1, p.9-16. Illus. 15 ref. (In English)

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In a study to explore the effects of keyboard design features on performance, 50 subjects performed a text-entry task for one day on a standard keyboard, and were then assigned to one of five alternative keyboards for an evaluation period of two days. The design features examined had minimal impact on productivity (keystrokes/h, errors/h) and self-reported comfort and fatigue over the two-day test period. (69734)

CIS 97-1714 A neural network-based system for classification of industrial jobs with respect to risk of low back disorders due to workplace design. Zurada J., Karwowski W., Marras W.S., Applied Ergonomics, Feb. 1997, Vol.28, No.1, p.49-58. 30 ref. (In English)

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The development of a neural network-based system for the classification of industrial jobs according to the potential risk for low back disorders is described. Data for the model were collected from observation of the trunk motions and quantification of workplace factors in repetitive tasks with high and low risk of low back disorders. The performance of the model was tested on a set of 87 jobs, of which 65 (74%) were correctly diagnosed as being of high or low risk. The system may be useful in hazard analysis and injury prevention associated with manual handling of loads. (69736)

CIS 97-1715 Ergonomic redesign of the electric guitar. Marmaras N., Zarboutis N., Applied Ergonomics, Feb. 1997, Vol.28, No.1, p.59-67. Illus. 9 ref. (In English)

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The activities of three experienced guitarists were analyzed while playing three standard electric guitar models. Characteristics of the guitar associated with fatigue or difficulties in playing were identified by interview, and several ergonomic requirements were derived. A new guitar was designed using ergonomic criteria. The main differences were in the shape of the body, the type and placement of control devices, body-neck angle, and the shape of the guitar head. In a comparative evaluation, the ergonomic scores for the redesigned guitar were better than those for the standard models. (69737)

CIS 97-1716 Effects of arm support on shoulder and arm muscle activity during sedentary work. Feng Y., et al., Ergonomics, Aug. 1997, Vol.40, No.8, p.834-848. Illus. 20 ref. (In English)

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In this study, 12 female subjects performed three types of tasks (typing, simulated assembly work, and pipetting) using fixed arm support, horizontal movable arm support, and spring-loaded arm support. Electromyograms (EMG) of four muscles were simultaneously recorded. The mean values of the normalized EMG levels showed a reduced EMG level of the shoulder muscles when using arm supports in all tasks. The horizontal movable support was more effective than other supports in reducing EMG levels of the shoulder muscles in tasks at table height. Muscle activity of the shoulder region may be reduced by using arm supports. (69780)

CIS 97-1717 Ergonomics, safety and the bottom line. Catterall B., Safety and Health Practitioner, Sep. 1997, Vol.15, No.9, p.18-22. Illus. (In English)

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The application of ergonomics in the design and specification of work systems is discussed, focusing on the need to make systems safe and fit for specified user needs. The concept of the usability of a proposed layout, workstation or tool is considered and the avoidance and management of musculoskeletal disorders is discussed. A framework for the ergonomic analysis of work tasks and the implementation of better workplace ergonomics is proposed. (69797)

CIS 97-1718 Quantification of muscular activity in the shoulder region during monotonous repetitive work. Capodaglio P., Jensen C., Christensen H., Medicina del lavoro, July-Aug. 1996, Vol.87, No.4, p.305-313. Illus. 26 ref. (In English)

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Electromyographic (EMG) activity in the shoulder muscles during repetitive monotonous work cycles was investigated in six Danish assembly workers. The assessment of musculoskeletal load via EMG and video recordings of the performed movements led to the conclusion that the maximal voluntary contraction forces were below the recommended limits. The work cycles examined were found to be ergonomically well organized, with low levels of repetitivity, so that musculoskeletal injuries were not likely to occur. (69816)

CIS 97-1719 Work-related musculoskeletal symptoms among car mechanics: A descriptive study. Torp S., Riise T., Moen B.E., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1996, Vol.46, No.6, p.407-413. Illus. 26 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 103 car mechanics in 12 different garages revealed that almost all had experienced musculoskeletal symptoms at work during the past year. The most troublesome symptoms were associated with the low back, upper back, shoulders and neck. Mechanics between the ages of 30 and 40 reported more shoulder symptoms than both younger and older workers. Improvements in the ergonomic environment and in work organization would help to reduce the time spent in strenuous working postures. (69842)

CIS 97-1720 Interactive effect of ergonomics and production engineering in shoulder-neck exposure - A case study of assembly work in China and Sweden. Bao S., et al., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, July 1997, Vol.20, No.1, p.75-85. Illus. 25 ref. (In English)

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A study of workers at a Chinese and a Swedish assembly line involved investigation of work station design, assembly line balancing, sensitivity of assembly line layout to disturbances and measurement of work postures and muscle activation. The Swedish workplace had a better ergonomic work station design, and was better balanced and less sensitive to production irregularities. Shoulder-neck muscle activation levels were similar on both lines, and upper arm movements were more repetitive on the Swedish line. The positive effects of ergonomic work station design on shoulder-neck exposure may be counteracted by more efficient production engineering. (69954)

CIS 97-1721 An audit of occupational health care for employees with low-back pain. van der Weide W.E., et al., Occupational Medicine, July 1997, Vol.47, No.5, p.294-300. 25 ref. (In English)

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Guidelines for the occupational rehabilitation of workers with low-back pain were developed, and criteria for good practice in occupational rehabilitation were formulated on the basis of these guidelines. The criteria were subsequently used in an audit of the medical records of 40 workers with low-back pain. The number of patients who received care consistent with the guidelines was compared with the number of patients eligible to receive that kind of care (performance rate). Performance rates were measured for 6 rehabilitation procedures and ranged from 21% to 90%. The method is recommended as a means of auditing and improving the quality of occupational rehabilitation. (69645)

CIS 97-1722 A method for the assessment of fitness in aerobically taxing occupations. Capodaglio E.M., Imbriani M., Criffo A., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1996, Vol.9, No.3, p.227-234. Illus. 6 ref. (In English)

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A method of fitness assessment using submaximal treadmill exercise was tested in a group of urban police officers in Italy. Physiological variables and subjective perceptions were measured during the exercise tests, and individual and mean "critical" limits of capacity for dynamic work were evaluated. The method allows individual profiles of working capacity to be defined and used for the regular assessment of fitness. (69666)

CIS 97-1723 Forearm muscular load and wrist angle among automobile assembly line workers in relation to symptoms. Hägg G.M., Öster J., Byström S., Applied Ergonomics, Feb. 1997, Vol.28, No.1, p.41-47. 23 ref. (In English)

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Electromyographic activity (EMG) from flexor and extensor muscles of the right forearm was recorded together with wrist angles in 20 automobile assembly line workers during work. EMG recordings indicated that extensors were activated more statically, while flexors had a more dynamic pattern, with more pauses but also higher peak loads. Workers from stations with a high prevalence of subjective wrist/forearm symptoms worked longer times in a more ulnar deviated hand position than workers from stations with a low prevalence of symptoms, indicating ulnar deviation as a risk factor. (69735)

CIS 97-1724 The ageing eye at work. Voke J., Safety and Health Practitioner, June 1997, Vol.15, No.6, p.38-39. (In English)

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Problems associated with declining vision and visual performance in older workers are discussed. Topics covered include: the need for adequate illumination and reduction of glare in the workplace; age changes in colour vision; optimum working distance when using a visual display unit; use of eye protection; and visual side-effects of medication. (69739)

CIS 97-1725 Repetitive strain injuries. Yassi A., Lancet, 29 Mar. 1997, Vol.349, No.9056, p.943-947. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)

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Disorders commonly arising from repetitive strain injuries (RSI) are listed and ergonomic conditions that pose a threat for RSI are outlined: repetitive and forceful motions; static muscle load and mechanical stress; vibration and temperature extremes; awkward postures arising from improperly designed equipment, tools or workstations; and organizational factors (excessive work rates, inadequate work breaks, monotonous work). Procedures for the diagnosis and evaluation of RSI are described along with the clinical course of the disorder, possible ergonomic interventions, and medical treatment. (69747)

CIS 97-1726 Occupational contact dermatitis. Rietschel R.L., Lancet, 12 Apr. 1997, Vol.349, No.9058, p.1093-1095. Illus. 18 ref. (In English)

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Signs of irritant and allergic contact dermatitis are described, and procedures are outlined for establishing the diagnosis and the relation of the disorder to occupational exposure. The importance of establishing a detailed work history is highlighted in addition to observation of morphological abnormalities. Diagnostic patch tests may be used to establish the work-relatedness of the disorder, to classify the process as irritant or allergenic in origin, and to develop strategies for management. (69748)

CIS 97-1727 Lost workdays and decreased work effectiveness associated with headache in the workplace. Schwartz B.S., Stewart W.F., Lipton R.B., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 1997, Vol.39, No.4, p.320-327. 26 ref. (In English)

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In a survey of 13,343 subjects conducted in Maryland, USA, 9.4% reported missing work more than rarely because of headache, 31% reported that their work level was reduced more than rarely because of headache, and 9.2% reported that their work level was reduced more than 50% by headaches during work. Individuals lost the equivalent of 4.2 workdays per year because of headaches. Subjects with migraine headache were more likely to report actual lost workdays, whereas tension and other headache types accounted for a large proportion of decreased work effectiveness. (69767)

CIS 97-1728 Predictors of work disability in work-related upper-extremity disorders. Friedman P.J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 1997, Vol.39, No.4, p.339-343. 12 ref. (In English)

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In a study of 106 patients with work-related upper extremity disorders, the best predictors of work disability, as measured by current work hours, were self-rated disability scores on the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) and the Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (SHAQ). Other predictors included weeks of work absence, passive wrist flexion angle of the affected arm, neck pain or stiffness on movement, and grip strength in the affected arm. FIQ and SHAQ scores were significantly correlated with objective measures of upper extremity function. These scores are valid measures of work disability for these disorders. (69770)

CIS 97-1729 Relationship between work constraints and the development of musculoskeletal disorders of the wrist: A prospective study. Malchaire J.B., et al., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, June 1997, Vol.19, No.6, p.471-482. 35 ref. (In English)

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In a two-year study of 184 workers in 14 different jobs, subjects were interviewed at one-year intervals on their health status, their perception of physical workload and the occurrence of musculoskeletal wrist disorders. Occupational constraints (wrist angles, forces, repetitiveness, and angular velocities) were also analyzed. Parameters most significantly associated with the development of wrist disorders were the forces exerted by the wrist and the hand, the velocity of movement in flexion-extension and repetitiveness. The objective of control measures should be to reduce the muscular activity of the finger and hand flexors below 15% of the maximum activity corresponding to the maximum voluntary contraction of the finger flexors. (69802)

CIS 97-1730 Developing explicit risk models for predicting low-back disability: A statistical perspective. Dempsey P.G., Westfall P.H., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, June 1997, Vol.19, No.6, p.483-497. 87 ref. (In English)

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Epidemiologic studies of manual materials handling and low-back disorders usually result in qualitative guidelines. A critical tool in the determination of explicit quantitative guidelines from these studies is the statistical method chosen to model risk. Statistical methods previously used for modelling the risk of low-back disability are reviewed and new methodologies are discussed. These techniques have the potential to provide insight into the aetiology of low-back disability and to provide explicit quantitative design criteria for ergonomics practitioners. (69803)

CIS 97-1731 Impact of metabolic rate on human response to air movements during work in cool environments. Toftum J., Nielsen R., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 1996, Vol.18, p.307-316. Illus. 30 ref. (In English)

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Oxygen consumption was monitored in ten men exposed to a range of air velocities and air temperatures while performing standing physical work at two different activity levels. The neck was identified as the most draught sensitive area. While air temperature influenced draught ratings at the hands and face, the percentage of dissatisfied subjects due to draught at the head region did not depend on the air temperature. Working at a high activity level resulted in fewer dissatisfied persons, compared to a low activity level. The metabolic rate, equivalent to the internal heat production, significantly influenced human response to air movements. (69808)

CIS 97-1732 Management and the organisation of work. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.1, p.35-113. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These six chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine issues of management and the organization of work: productivity and work development; work organization and work satisfaction; prerequisites for integrated manufacturing systems; approaches to the regulation of health and safety (risk assessment, risk analysis, quality control); internal control (with reference to Norwegian offshore activities); occupational safety and health directives of the European Union. (69783)

CIS 97-1733 Human factors - Ergonomics. In: The Workplace (by Brune D. et al., eds), Scandinavian Science Publisher as, Bakkehaugveien 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 1997, Vol.1, p.115-220. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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These six chapters in a major new survey of OSH examine aspects of human factors and ergonomics in the workplace: individual capacities, ageing and adaptation to the work environment (brain function, effects of ageing, neuropsychological characteristics of ageing); cognitive ergonomics and the reliability of man-machine interaction (interface design); psychosocial factors in the work environment (models of the individual and the work environment, basic psychological stress concepts); unemployment and health; violence; uses of ergonomics (ergonomic design of workplaces and tools, standardization, evaluation of workload). (69784)

CIS 97-1734 The ageing process: Hearing and musculoskeletal capacity. (Spanish: Envejecimiento y trabajo: audición y motricidad) Pérez Bilbao J., Salvador Peracaula E., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 6p. 17 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note is focused on the decrease in work capacity, in particular hearing and musculoskeletal capacity, with age. Recommendations on how to compensate hearing and musculoskeletal loss during the ageing process are presented. See NTP 367-1995 (CIS 97-1735) for additional information. (69911)

CIS 97-1735 The ageing process: Age management. (Spanish: Envejecimiento y trabajo: la gestión de la edad) Pérez Bilbao J., Nogareda Cuixart C., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 6p. 20 ref. (In Spanish)

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This information note discusses the work capacity and working conditions of the ageing population and presents recommendations on how to deal with the fact that the labour force is ageing and how to adapt work to older workers. Reference to ILO's Older Workers Recommendation (No.162), 1980. See NTP 366-1995 (CIS 97-1734) for additional information. (69912)

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CIS 97-1736 Associations between safety climate and emotional reactions to platform movements onboard an offshore installation. Østvik J., Rundmo T., Sjøberg L., Safety Science, Aug. 1997, Vol.26, No.3, p.155-168. 23 ref. (In English)

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A survey of 179 workers on an offshore installation showed that, in general, emotional reactions to platform movements were not associated with the safety climate. The only exception was for instrumental protection (detection and deluge systems, temporary refuges, safety devices): workers appeared to consider these measures to be useful in the prevention of accidents or during accidents caused by platform movement effects. Associations between emotional reactions and safety involvement, and between emotional reactions and satisfaction with aspects of safety and contingency measures were affected by personnel category, offshore experience and age. Results indicate an emphasis on emotional rather than cognitive coping responses to platform movements. (69776)

CIS 97-1737 Breaking the glass ceiling. Kogan H., Health and Safety at Work, May 1997, Vol.19, No.5, p.10-12. 7 ref. (In English)

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The health and safety implications of balancing work and family responsibilities are examined. The conflict between meeting the needs of children and the demands of work are discussed along with the potential effects of stress and fatigue on ill-health and occupational accidents. Examples of employers' initiatives in providing flexible working arrangements and career breaks are described. It is concluded that the implementation of sensitive work practices would reduce the effects of fatigue, anxiety and stress for working parents. (69649)

CIS 97-1738 Why care about care?. Highley-Marchington C., Cooper C.L., Health and Safety at Work, May 1997, Vol.19, No.5, p.23-26. 2 ref. (In English)

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The results of a survey of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) in the United Kingdom are presented. The main characteristics of the programmes are described and the views of EAP providers, counsellors, purchasers and clients are summarized. Reasons given for introducing a counselling service into an organization were to help employees adapt to change, to respond to high stress levels within the organization, to generally support staff, and to 'appear' to be a caring organization. Topics discussed include confidentiality, competence and recruitment of counsellors, and evaluation of the programmes. (69650)

CIS 97-1739 Effect of cognitive-behavioural training on job-finding among long-term unemployed people. Proudfoot J., et al., Lancet, 12 July 1997, Vol.350, No.9071, p.96-100. 32 ref. (In English)

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Two groups of long-term (>12 months) unemployed professional people were assigned to one of two occupational training programmes: one based on cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and a control programme based on social support. Questionnaires completed before and after training assessed mental health, job-seeking activities and success in job-finding. Improvements in several measures of mental health were greater in the CBT group than in the control group. Compared with the control group, almost three times as many CBT participants successfully found full-time employment. Results suggest that group CBT training can improve mental health and produce tangible benefits in job-finding among the long-term unemployed. (69660)

CIS 97-1740 Aboriginal health worker smoking; results of a Western NSW survey. Andrews B., Oates F., Naden P., Aboriginal and Islander Health Worker Journal, Sep.-Oct. 1996, Vol.20, No.5, p.19-22. 14 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey was conducted among Aboriginal health workers in New South Wales, Australia, to assess their tobacco use and their awareness of an ongoing project to quit smoking. Of the 22 respondents, 14 were current smokers, 6 were nonsmokers and 2 were ex-smokers. Most respondents said they were interested in special staff training to help others to quit smoking. These preliminary results add to the limited data available on Aboriginal smoking habits. (69663)

CIS 97-1741 Associations between risk perception and safety. Rundmo T., Safety Science, Dec. 1996, Vol.24, No.3, p.197-209. 21 ref. (In English)

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A self-completion questionnaire survey was carried out among employees on twelve offshore oil installations in 1994. The number of respondents was 1138. Employee evaluations of the status of safety and contingency measures were affected by physical working conditions, attitudes towards safety and accident prevention work as well as management commitment and involvement in safety promotion. These factors were also related to job stress, perceived risk and risk behaviour. There was a significant positive correlation between perceived risk and risk behaviour, but risk perception was not found to predict risk behaviour. Risk behaviour affected accidents as well as near-misses. The possibility that safety cannot be improved by changing individual risk perception is discussed. (69687)

CIS 97-1742 Difference in perceived health between blue- and white-collar workers of a manufacturing factory by a self-administered questionnaire. (Japanese: Jikishiki ankēto ni yoru seizōgyō jūjisha ni okeru kenkō ishiki no shokushu ni yoru sa-i) Nakagawa K., et al., Japanese Journal of Industrial Health - Sangyō-Igaku, May 1993, Vol.35, No.3, p.188-197. Illus. 16 ref. (In Japanese)

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A survey using self-administered questionnaire was conducted. The subjects were 1,428 male workers in a tire manufacturing factory, consisting of 1,185 blue-collar workers and 243 white-collar workers. Most of the blue-collar workers were engaged in shift work consisting of three shifts per day. The questionnaire included 32 items concerning health habits, life and job satisfaction, mental stress, and "type A" [stress-prone] behaviour. Older workers had better health habits than younger ones both in white- and blue-collar categories. The white-collar workers were more satisfied with their life and jobs, and also showed type A behaviour at a higher rate. As for fatigue and dissatisfaction associated with shift work, the workers' complaints increased in the order day shift, evening shift, midnight shift. Older workers had fewer complaints than younger ones. These results suggest that health management and education will be more effective if the working conditions and the background of each worker are taken into consideration. (69690)

CIS 97-1743 Convenience store robberies in selected metropolitan areas - Risk factors for employee injury. Amandus H.E., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1997, Vol.39, No.5, p.442-447. 10 ref. (In English)

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Analysis of data on 1835 convenience store robberies in metropolitan areas of the USA showed that 59% of robberies occurred at night, 47% occurred in stores previously robbed in the study period, 63% involved the use of a firearm, and 12% were associated with an injury to at least one employee. In a subset of 758 robberies, factors associated with lower probability of employee injury included firearm use, robbery occurrence in stores that had been robbed several times, having money stolen, and the presence of a customer in the store. Employee risk of injury was not significantly different between one- and multiple-employee stores. (69696)

CIS 97-1744 Worksite characteristics and changes in worksite tobacco-control initiatives - Results from the COMMIT Study. Sorensen G., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.520-526. 21 ref. (In English)

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A survey of worksites participating in the Community Intervention Trial (COMMIT) for Smoking Cessation (conducted in 11 communities in North America) showed that 34% of those that did not have a smoking ban at baseline (1990) had adopted a smoke-free policy by the time of the final survey (1993); the prevalence of policy adoption was higher among worksites employing more female employees and offering other health-promotion activities. 36% of those offering no cessation assistance at baseline were offering cessation resources at follow-up; adoption of cessation programmes was more likely among worksites employing 100 to 249 workers, and among those predominantly employing men, those offering other types of health-promotion activities, and those with a higher rate of turnover. (69713)

CIS 97-1745 Self-reported stress and reproductive health of female lawyers. Schenker M.B., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.556-568. 40 ref. (In English)

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In a questionnaire survey of 584 female lawyers aged 25 to 63, job hours per week was a strong predictor of job stress. Women who worked more than 45 hours per week during their first trimester of pregnancy were more likely to report high stress at work during pregnancy. Weekly job hours during the first trimester of pregnancy showed a strong independent association with spontaneous abortion risk, as did 7 or more alcohol drinks per week. Self-reported stress during pregnancy was positively, but not significantly, associated with spontaneous abortion. (69718)

CIS 97-1746 A topography of psychiatric disorders among correction officers. Tartaglini A.J., Safran D.A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.569-573. 23 ref. (In English)

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Medical charts of 1029 prison officers with complaints of psychological distress were reviewed. Subjects showed a wide range of psychiatric conditions, accounting for a substantial loss of full-duty workdays. The most frequently observed diagnostic clusters were phase of life/marital/family problems, followed by mood and adjustment disorders. Results suggest that the prevalence of mood, adjustment and alcohol abuse disorders in correction officers is higher than that in the general population. The rates of psychotic disorders and personality disorders among these officers were notably lower than those seen in the general population. (69719)

CIS 97-1747 Stress at work: An evaluation of occupational stressors as reported by a multicultural New Zealand workforce. Dryson E.W., et al., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 1996, Vol.2, No.1, p.18-25. 34 ref. (In English)

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In a questionnaire survey of 5,467 European, Maori, Pacific Islander and Asian employees working for 41 companies in New Zealand, men reported more work stressors than women for all categories of stressors measured, but particularly for job scope. Increased stressors were also found among younger workers due to their relationship with management and among administrative workers (managers) in relation to job pressure. People of European descent reported more work stressors than other ethnic groups. The study highlights areas for stress-reduction interventions. (69759)

CIS 97-1748 The importance of language in communication. Chaabane S., Safety and Health Practitioner, Sep. 1997, Vol.15, No.9, p.28-30. Illus. 16 ref. (In English)

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The language problem in relation to health, safety and the environment is examined focusing on the functioning of networks and the harmonization of training courses in Europe. The use of a network as a communication system is discussed with reference to the ERASMUS network (European Action Scheme of the Mobility of University Students). Obstacles to communication are examined, in particular health and safety terminology in different languages and problems in translation. (69799)

CIS 97-1749 The personal and work-related rehabilitation of former drug addicts. (Italian: Il recupero personale e lavorativo dell'ex-tossicodipendente) Fanelli C., et al., Prevenzione oggi, Apr.-June 1994, Vol.VI, No.2, p.45-55. 13 ref. (In Italian)

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Results are reported of a longitudinal survey of 55 former drug addicts undergoing rehabilitation in an Italian therapeutic community. Treatment involved psychological tests for evaluating damage resulting from exposure to neurotoxic substances, and tests for evaluating the functional structure of the personality. There was no evidence of a weakening of the advanced nervous functions; in some cases, performance levels were higher than those of unexposed subjects. Personality tests indicated that adults were demonstrating emotional attitudes typical of an adolescent age group. (69806)

CIS 97-1750 Do attitudes and beliefs influence work loss due to low back trouble?. Symonds T.L., et al., Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1996, Vol.46, No.1, p.25-32. 28 ref. (In English)

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Attitudes and beliefs about low-back trouble, pain, work and activity were measured among workers in a biscuit manufacturing factory by means of five questionnaires. Workers who had taken in excess of one week's absence owing to low-back trouble had significantly more negative attitudes and beliefs when compared with workers who had taken shorter absence or those reporting no history of back trouble. Interventions designed to reduce negative attitudes may help to reduce longer-term absenteeism due to low-back trouble. (69822)

CIS 97-1751 Gender differences in work and well-being: Effects of exposure and vulnerability. Roxburgh S., Journal of Health and Social Behavior, Sep. 1996, Vol.37, p.265-277. Illus. 45 ref. (In English)

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A job stress model for evaluating the differential exposure and vulnerability of men and women to job stressors was tested on 994 Canadian employees. The analysis considered the direct and moderating effects of occupational self-direction, job demands and co-worker social support on distress. Results indicated that women are more vulnerable than men to the effects of perceived job demands and to the degree of routinization in the job. Possible explanations include the additive effects of work and home demands on women's well-being, and the different approaches adopted by men in coping with routinization. (69834)

CIS 97-1752 Does pressure from the work community increase risk taking?. Salminen S., Psychological Reports, 1995, Vol.77, p.1247-1250. 11 ref. (In English)

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It was hypothesized that the pressure created by the work community (considered to be the influence of co-workers, foremen and customers) was an additional motive for increased risk taking. In interviews with 72 victims of serious occupational accidents in Finland, subjects were asked to evaluate the effects of nine accident factors at the moment of the accident. Analysis of results did not confirm the hypothesis. The saving of time and trouble and the pressure of timetables were the most important motives which prompted risk taking. (69835)

CIS 97-1753 Effect of organisational downsizing on health of employees. Vahtera J., Kivimäki M., Pentti J., Lancet, 18 Oct. 1997, Vol.350, No.9085, p.1124-1128. Illus. 31 ref. (In English)

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The relation between downsizing and subsequent absenteeism because of ill health was investigated in 981 local government workers who remained in employment during a period of economic decline in Finland. There was a significant association between downsizing and medically certified sick leave. The rate of absenteeism was 2.3 times greater after major downsizing than after minor downsizing. Factors that increased rates of sick leave included a high proportion of employees older than 50 years, age over 44 years, a large workplace, poor health before downsizing, and high income. (69939)

CIS 97-1754 Psychosocial aspects of work and health in the North Sea oil and gas industry. Parkes K.R., Clark M.J., Payne-Cook E., Health and Safety Executive (HSE), HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. xii, 184p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: GBP 85.00., ISBN 0-7176-1394-1 (In English)

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Part III of this report addresses the issue of shift rotation patterns among offshore workers. Repeated assessments of sleep, mood and cognitive performance over the two-week offshore work cycle clearly demonstrated the adverse effects of a mid-cycle shift change compared to a fixed-shift schedule. Part IV presents the main findings of a survey of the perceived physical and psychosocial work environment, safety, health and job satisfaction among 1462 offshore personnel on 17 platforms. Overall, the offshore sample did not show elevated levels of stress symptoms relative to comparable onshore groups, but job types, shift patterns and installation characteristics were significant predictors of safety, work and health measures. (Parts I and II of this report are abstracted under CIS 97-1408). (69946)

CIS 97-1755 Stress and work: Present status of scientific knowledge. (Italian: Stress e lavoro: Lo stato attuale delle conoscenze scientifiche) Cesana G.C., In: Lo stress nel mondo del lavoro: Quali soluzioni per un problema in espansione, Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Clinica del Lavoro e della Riabilitazione, Pavia, Italy, 1996, p.9-24. 30 ref., ISBN 88-7963-042-3 (In Italian)

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The status of scientific knowledge on the relationship between stress and work is examined in relation to the cultural origin of the stress concept and the underlying psychophysiological model, and measurement possibilities and their problems. Subjective, physiological and epidemiologic measures are discussed along with the use of the stress concept in the study of the aetiology of coronary disease. Summary in English. (69962)

CIS 97-1756 An out-patient department dealing with work stress: The experience of the Milan Occupational Medicine Hospital. (Italian: Un ambulatorio per le patologie da stress lavorativo: L'esperienza della Clinica di Medicina del lavoro di Milano) Riboldi L., et al., In: Lo stress nel mondo del lavoro: Quali soluzioni per un problema in espansione, Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Clinica del Lavoro e della Riabilitazione, Pavia, Italy, 1996, p.25-35. 4 ref., ISBN 88-7963-042-3 (In Italian)

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The methodology used in dealing with cases of work-related stress at the out-patient department of the Milan Occupational Medicine Hospital, Italy is described and early experiences are examined. Summary in English. (69963)

CIS 97-1757 Stress and work: The experience of the industrial physician in health surveillance. (Italian: Lo stress nel mondo del lavoro: Esperienze del medico d'azienda nella sorveglianza sanitaria) Feltrin G., In: Lo stress nel mondo del lavoro: Quali soluzioni per un problema in espansione, Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Clinica del Lavoro e della Riabilitazione, Pavia, Italy, 1996, p.37-48. 51 ref., ISBN 88-7963-042-3 (In Italian)

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Commonly occurring stress situations both inside and outside the workplace are discussed from the point of view of the industrial physician. Summary in English. (69964)

CIS 97-1758 Prognostic value of the estimation of stress in ischaemic cardiopathy and in the back to work period. (Italian: Valore prognostico dello stress percepito nell'evoluzione della cardiopatia ischemica e nel reinserimento lavorativo) Bettinardi O., Zotti A.M., In: Lo stress nel mondo del lavoro: Quali soluzioni per un problema in espansione, Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Clinica del Lavoro e della Riabilitazione, Pavia, Italy, 1996, p.49-54. Illus. 14 ref., ISBN 88-7963-042-3 (In Italian)

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Negative correlations have been found between patients' self-evaluation and their cardiovascular reactions. In a recent study, ischaemic patients with a low level of neuroticism and a high state of psychophysical well-being in the presurgical phase showed higher risks of post-surgical clinical complications than those who rated themselves less favorably. Data highlight the need for systematic psychological evaluations to determine the individual's propensity for underestimating emotional distress. Summary in English. (69965)

CIS 97-1759 Stress and work: Approach to the problem from the point of view of trade unions. (Italian: Lo stress nel mondo del lavoro: L'approccio al problema dal punto di vista sindacale) Vicinelli G.C., In: Lo stress nel mondo del lavoro: Quali soluzioni per un problema in espansione, Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Clinica del Lavoro e della Riabilitazione, Pavia, Italy, 1996, p.55-63. 3 ref., ISBN 88-7963-042-3 (In Italian)

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The role of trade unions in the prevention of work-related stress is discussed. Problems associated with the study of stress at work include the priority given to preventing traditional work accidents and diseases and difficulties in developing quantitative and objective measures. Group questionnaires may be useful in identifying sources of occupational stress. Summary in English. (69966)

CIS 97-1760 Stress and specific job fitness. (Italian: Stress e idoneità specifica al lavoro) Cassitto M.G., In: Lo stress nel mondo del lavoro: Quali soluzioni per un problema in espansione, Fondazione Salvatore Maugeri, Clinica del Lavoro e della Riabilitazione, Pavia, Italy, 1996, p.65-72. 11 ref., ISBN 88-7963-042-3 (In Italian)

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Factors which may facilitate the onset of a stress syndrome in the workplace are analyzed and their role in evaluating job fitness is examined. The main factors discussed are job content and organisation, control at work, interpersonal relations, the balance of roles, monitoring of changes, coordination of management and health services, and workers' possibilities for advancement. The characteristics of stress syndrome are compared with those found in post-traumatic syndromes, and the role of individual factors in the aetiology of stress syndrome is considered. Summary in English. (69967)

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