CIS 97-1761 Act modifying laws concerning the protection of workers, adapation of the work contract and maternity protection [Austria]. (German: Änderung des ArbeitnehmerInnenschutzgesetzes, des Arbeitsvertragsrechts-Anpassungsgesetzes und des Mutterschutzgesetzes) Bundesgesetzblatt für die Republik Österreich, 10 Jan. 1997, Part I, p.35-40. (In German)

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This Act modifies several provisions concerning mainly occupational accident insurance, occupational medicine and prevention of workplace accidents. Specific provisions relate to the appointment, functions and dismissal of safety personnel. (70320)

CIS 97-1762 Workplace Health and Safety Amendment Act 1997 [Australia - Queensland]. Offprint from the Queensland Government Gazette, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, 1997. 35p. (In English)

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This Act amends Act No.25 of 1995 (CIS 96-391) concerning safety and health at work. Principal amendments relate to: the objective of the Act and definitions; penalties for offences against the Act; obligations of contractors; regulations made under the Act, advisory standards, codes of practice and ministerial notices; functions of the workplace health and safety council; the establishment of industry sector committees. Schedule 1 (List of offences and penalties) and Schedule 3 (Definitions) of the 1995 Act are also amended. (70321)

CIS 97-1763 Environmental Health Services Act 1997 [Commonwealth of Dominica]. Offprint from the Dominica. Laws, Statutes. Act, Commonwealth of Dominica, 1997. 37p. (In English)

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This Act stipulates minimum standards for private or industrial activities to ensure the maintenance of a clean, healthy and aesthetically pleasing environment. Provisions cover: establishment and functions of authorities and institutions charged with the protection of the environment and public health; obtaining a certificate of approval for any activities liable to harm the environment or public health (emission of contaminants or pollutants); special powers of the Chief Environmental Health Officer and judicial procedures; penalties for offences under the Act; and powers of the Minister of Health regarding the protection of the environment and public health. In annex: composition of the Environmental Health Board. This Act repeals Public Health Act No.15 of 1968. (70322)

CIS 97-1764 Act 66-27 of 30 April 1996 promulgating the Labour Code [Tunisia]. (French: Loi 66-27 du 30 avril 1966 portant promulgation du Code du travail [Tunisie]) Imprimerie officielle de la République Tunisienne, Radès, Tunis, Tunisia, 1966. 135p. (In French)

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Contents of this Code (entry into force 1 May 1966) relating to safety and health at work: scope of application; establishment of statutory health and safety measures for different activities; the employment contract and conditions of work, in particular for women and children; workers' representation; labour inspection; procedures in labour disputes. Special requirements are included for occupational medicine, dangerous or unhealthy establishments, dangerous work, supervision and health policy on building sites, working clothes, workplace committees and vocational training. The status of certain occupations is established. (70327)

CIS 97-1765 Workers' Protection Act of 14 Oct. 1992 [Ukraine]. (French: Loi du 14 oct.1992 sur la protection du travail [Ukraine]) Labour Law Documents - Documents de droit social, 1993, No.3, p.76-95 (English version), p.120-139 (French version). (In English, French)

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Contents of this Act (entry into force Dec. 1992): scope; basic principles of workplace health and safety; rights of workers to be informed of workplace hazards and to undergo medical examinations; compensation of occupational injuries and diseases and in cases of heavy and dangerous work; provision of protective clothing by the employer; specific provisions for women and young persons; health and safety organization and training; duty of the employer to create a workers' protection service in the enterprise comprising members of staff and the ability of the employer to establish a Workers' Protection Committee; duty of the employer regarding the information of workers; financial penalties for violation of regulations; list of organizations responsible for workers' protection and their functions. (70332)

CIS 97-1766 Statute of the Labour Inspection Board [Republic of Estonia]. Photocopy, 23p. Available from CIS. (In English)

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This Statute defines the functions of the public labour inspection service, whose main task is to ensure the protection of workers in accordance with national laws, government decisions and international conventions. Inspectors are required to undertake surveys, evaluations and studies and to cooperate with supervisory bodies concerned with safety and public health. Powers of inspectors enabling them to accomplish their work are listed and the management of the labour inspection service is described. In annex: structure of the National Labour Inspection Board; map of labour inspection districts. (70334)

CIS 97-1767 Decree amending the Industrial Safety and Health Law 1981 [Republic of Korea]. (Korean: Gaezung Sanub anjun bogun bub mib sihaengryeng) Korean Industrial Safety Corporation, Kukje Bldg.9F 2-Ka Hangang-yo Yongsan-ku, Seoul, Republic of Korea, 1990. 56p. (In Korean)

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This Act (entry into force 14 July 1990) modifies the 1981 Act (CIS 90-352) concerning industrial safety and health. New articles cover: safety signs; safety engineers; industrial health physicians; plant safety and health rules; minimum safety costs in construction; inspection of dangerous machines, equipment and installations; authorization for the manufacture of harmful substances; maximum working hours for dangerous work; and an industrial accident prevention fund. (70339)

CIS 97-1768 Directive No.20 concerning requirements for first-aid kits at work [Mexico]. (Spanish: Instructivo Nº20 relativo a los requerimientos y características de los botiquines para primeros auxilios en los centros de trabajo [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, 06720 Mexico, D.F., Mexico, 1991. 6p. (In Spanish)

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This Directive (entry into force Dec. 1991) specifies mainly the responsibilities of employers to prepare a first-aid manual for the workplace. Provisions cover the administration of first aid and requirements for first-aid kits. In annex: list of materials which should be in these kits and in what quantity. This Directive modifies Directive No.20 of 1980 on the same subject. (70324)

CIS 97-1769 Factories Ordinance - Factories (Provision and Use of Work Equipment) Regulations 1997 [Gibraltar]. Gibraltar Gazette, 6 Nov. 1997, No.3006, p.670-681. (In English)

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These Regulations implement the provisions of Directive 89/655/EEC (CIS 90-357) concerning work equipment. Contents: definitions and scope of application; responsibilities of employers in relation to the information and training of workers in the use of equipment, protection against specified hazards, provision of equipment control devices, suitable lighting and maintenance operations. (70329)

CIS 97-1770 Decree No.89 of 21 January 1997 concerning general directives for the improvement of working conditions and occupational safety in all sectors of the economy for the period 1997-2000 [Republic of Kazakhstan]. (Russian: Postanovlenija ... ob osnovnyh napravlenijah po ulučšeniju uslovij i ohrany truda ... na 1997-2000 gody) Aktiler Žinagy - Sobranie Aktov, Feb. 1997, No.2, p.46-65. (In Russian)

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This Decree specifies technical measures for ensuring occupational safety by various means: prevention of occupational accidents and diseases; vocational training of specialists; education in occupational safety and motivation of employers to create safe working conditions. (70336)

CIS 97-1771 Regulation implementing section 93 of the Labour Code [Islamic Republic of Iran]. Rouzname Rasmi Jumhuri Islami Iran, 7 Aug. 1996, No.14978, p.1-2. (In Persian)

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This Regulation provides for the creation of occupational safety and health committees to supervise the implementation of safety and health standards at the workplace and for the promotion of worker participation in these committees. (70337)

CIS 97-1772 Worker Protection Ordinance 1991 [Vietnam]. Centre National d'Informations de Sécurité et de Santé au Travail du Ministère du Travail, des Invalides et des Affaires Sociales, 12 Ngô Quyen, Hanoi, Vietnam, 1991. 22p. (In Vietnamese)

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This ordinance specifies health and security measures for the prevention of injuries at work. (70338)

CIS 97-1773 Decree No.13 of 19 September 1997 concerning occupational health services [Bulgaria]. (Bulgarian: Naredba No.13 ot 19 septembri 1997 g. za službite po trudova medicina) Dăržaven vestnik, 7 Oct.1997, No.89, p.15-18. (In Bulgarian)

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This Decree stipulates requirements for the establishment of occupational health services. Functions of industrial health physicians are specified, including the selection of medical equipment and the evaluation of hygiene conditions. Requirements for the organization of their activities are also specified. (70335)

CIS 97-1774 Regulation concerning passive smoking in the workplace 1985 [Iceland]. (Icelandic: Reglur um tóbaksvarnir á vinnustöðum) Administration of Occupational Safety and Health, P.O. Box 10120, 130 Reykjavik, Iceland, 1988. 1p. (In Icelandic)

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This Regulation specifies measures for the prevention of harmful effects due to passive smoking in the workplace. (70340)

CIS 97-1775 Resolution No.31-97 approving Convention No.167 on safety and health in construction, adopted by the ILO on 22 June 1988 [Dominican Republic]. (Spanish: Resolución Nº31-97 que aprueba el Convenio Nº167, sobre Seguridad y Salud en la Construcción, adoptado por la Organización Internacional del Trabajo, en fecha 22 de junio de 1988 [República Dominicana]) Gaceta Oficial, 15 Feb. 1997, No.9947, p.10-28. (In Spanish)

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This Resolution ratifies ILO Convention 167 (CIS 92-1761) which covers all construction activities from site preparation to completion of the project. Provisions specify the responsibilities of employers, including worker consultation on safety and health matters during construction activities, and outline preventive and protective measures for various activities. (70330)

CIS 97-1776 Royal Decree 1627/1997 of 24 Oct. establishing minimum safety and health requirements for construction sites [Spain]. (Spanish: Real Decreto 1627/1997 de 24 de octubre, por el que se establecen disposiciones mínimas de seguridad y de salud en las obras de construcción [España]) Boletín Oficial del Estado, 25 Oct. 1997, No.256, p.30875-30886. (In Spanish)

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This Decree (entry into force Dec. 1997) introduces into national legislation the provisions of Council Directive 92/57 of 3 Dec. 1992 (CIS 93-1062) concerning minimum requirements for improving the safety and health of workers in open air or underground extractive industries. It is implemented under Law 31/1995 of 8 Nov. 1995 (CIS 95-1921) concerning safety and health at work. Contents: scope of application; definitions; measures to be taken during different stages of the work, notably the appointment of health and safety co-ordinators and the development of a health and safety plan; responsibilities of contractors, sub-contractors and the self-employed; maintenance of a register of incidents; rights of workers to information and consultation. (70319)

CIS 97-1777 Royal Decree modifying articles 1,4,6 and 8 of DR 555/1986 of 21 Feb. by providing for a compulsory occupational safety and health survey in building construction projects and public works [Spain]. (Spanish: Real Decreto que modifica los artículos 1,4,6 y 8 del RD 555/1986 de 21 de febrero, de obligatoriedad de inclusión de un estudio de Seguridad e Higiene en los proyectos de edificación y obras públicas [España]) Boletín Oficial del Estado, 25 Jan. 1990, No.22, p.417-419. (In Spanish)

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This Decree modifies Royal Decree 555/1986 (CIS 88-1063) by providing for a compulsory occupational safety and health survey to be carried out by architect in construction projects. Provisions include methods of approval of the safety and health plan, maintenance of a register of incidents and measures for protecting the safety of workers. (70323)

CIS 97-1778 Commission Directive 97/69/EC of 5 Dec. 1997 adapting to technical progress for the 23rd time Council Directive 67/548/EEC on the approximation of the laws ... relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances [European Communities]. (French: Dir. 97/69/CE de la Commission du 5 déc. 1997 portant 23e adapt. au progrès technique de la dir. 67/548/CEE concernant le rapprochement des dispositions législatives, ... relatives à la classification, l'emballage et l'étiquetage des substances dangereuses [Communautés européennes]) Journal officiel des Communautés européennes - Official Journal of the European Communities, 13 Dec. 1997, No.L 343, p.19-24. (In English, French)

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This Directive (entry into force 16 Dec. 1997) should be introduced into national legislation by 16 Dec. 1998. It modifies annexes I and IV of Directive 67/548/EEC (CIS 92-23) concerning the notes which should appear on the labels of dangerous substances and classification criteria for carcinogenic substances. Scientific developments will be evaluated by the Commission within a period of five years. Sample labels are included in the annex. (70315)

CIS 97-1779 Directive 97/56/EC of the European Parliament and Council of 20 Oct. 1997 specifying the 16th modification of Directive 76/769/EEC concerning the approximation of legal provisions ... relating to the ... certain dangerous substances and preparations [European Communities]. (French: Dir. 97/56/CE du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 20 oct. 1997 portant 16e modif. de la dir. 76/769/CEE concernant le rapprochement des dispositions législatives, ... relatives à la ... de certaines substances et préparations dangereuses [Communautés européennes]) Journal officiel des Communautés européennes - Official Journal of the European Communities, 4 Dec. 1997, No.L 333, p.1-84. (In English, French)

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This Directive should be introduced into national legislation by 1 March 1999. It modifies annex I of Directive 76/769/EEC (CIS 92-22) by introducing the CAS numbers of substances and by providing notes on the classification of carcinogenic and mutagenic substances and substances with reproductive toxicity (categories 1 and 2). (70317)

CIS 97-1780 Consolidation of the 12th Ordinance implementing the Federal Law concerning the control of atmospheric pollution (Major Accident Hazard Control Ordinance) [Germany]. (German: Neufassung der Zwölften Verordnung zur Durchführung des Bundes-Immisionsschutzgesetzes (Störfall-Verordnung)) Bundesgesetzblatt, 28 Sep. 1991, No.54, p.1892-1913. (In German)

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Original citation: CIS 81-293. Contents: scope; definitions; responsibilities of employers; requirements for avoiding malfunction and for limiting the consequences; complementary provisions; safety analysis, including the labelling of dangerous substances and the maintenance of a register of certain operations; revision of the safety analysis in the light of technological advances; exceptions; provision of information to the authorities and to the public; interim provisions. In annex: sources of danger; substances or preparations subject to registration; substances or preparations in store; particularly dangerous substances or preparations; form for the communication of certain information; information of the public. (70313)

CIS 97-1781 Health and Safety - The Placing on the Market and Supervision of Transfers of Explosives Regulations 1993 [United Kingdom]. HMSO Publications Centre, P.O.Box 276, London SW8 5DT, United Kingdom, 1993. 13p. Price: GBP 3.20. (In English)

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Contents of these Regulations (main entry into force 1 Dec. 1993): definitions and scope of application; requirements for placing on the market and for transporting explosives (conformity attestation, CE marking); exemptions. In annex: essential safety requirements; provision relating to explosives to which the CE marking has been affixed; conformity marking; modifications to the Explosives Act 1875 and to the Control of Explosives Regulations 1991 (CIS 91-2011). (70325)

CIS 97-1782 Regulations of the Mining Corporation of Bolivia concerning occupational health and safety 1968 [Bolivia]. (Spanish: Reglamento de higiene y seguridad industrial de la corporación minera de Bolivia [Bolivia]) Departamento de relaciones públicas de la corporación minera de Bolivia, La Paz, Bolivia, 1968. 247p. Illus. (In Spanish)

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These Regulations describe the functions of the Department of Occupational Health and Safety. Topics covered: accident prevention measures in mines and the use of personal protective equipment; specific precautions for underground work (extraction and transport of minerals); use of explosives, in particular ammonium nitrate; fire prevention regulations and powers of inspection of the Department of Occupational Health and Safety; escape plan and first aid in case of accidents; provisions for occupational accidents and illnesses; safety measures for specific equipment, such as electrical installations. (70331)

CIS 97-1783 Second Ordinance of 18 May 1989 modifying the Ordinance relating to ionizing radiation [Germany]. (German: Zweite Verordnung zur Änderung der Strahlenschutzverordnung) Bundesgesetzblatt, 27 May 1989, Part I, No.23, p.943-981. (In German)

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This Ordinance modifies those of 13 Oct. 1976 (CIS 77-1320) and 8 Jan. 1987 (CIS 87-51). The amendments relate to provisions concerning uses of ionizing radiation requiring authorization, the operation of installations not subject to authorization, and the use of radioactive substances and ionizing radiation in medical research, therapeutics or dental surgery. Other provisions cover radiation exposure limits, inhalation hazards and monitoring of exposed persons, the inspection of radioactive sources, and the transport, delivery, storage and use of radioactive waste. (70311)

CIS 97-1784 Notice of consolidation of 30 June 1989 of the Ordinance concerning protection against ionizing radiation [Germany]. (German: Bekanntmachung der Neufassung der Strahlenschutzverordnung) Bundesgesetzblatt, 12 July 1989, No.34, p.1321-1375. (In German)

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Original citation: CIS 77-1320. Aspects covered: scope; registration and authorization of radioactive substances; establishment of a control authority; production, transport, import and export of radioactive substances; approval of the construction of installations; responsibilities of installation owners; protective measures (marking); duties of those responsible for this protection; prevention of fires and accidents; use of radioactive substances in medical research and dental surgery; protection of the public and the environment by use of dosimetry. Chapter 3 covers occupational exposure: evaluation of body dose; contamination and decontamination; medical supervision; instruments (alarm signals); transport of radioactive waste; penalties. In annex: definitions; activities requiring registration or authorization; exposure limits; medical certificate form; conditions for the commissioning of installations; evaluation factors for dose equivalent studies; tables of ionising radiation, dose limits for certain operations, and annual body doses in cases of occupational exposure. (70312)

CIS 97-1785 Health and Safety: The Diving at Work Regulations 1997 [United Kingdom]. HMSO Publications Centre, P.O.Box 276, London SW8 5DT, United Kingdom, 1997. 11p. Price: GBP 2.80., ISBN 0-11-065170-7 (In English)

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These Regulations (entry into force 1 Apr. 1998) concern precautions to be taken before and during dives. Diving contractors should ensure that divers posses a training certificate and a certificate of physical aptitude. In annex: particulars to be included in the written notice sent to the Health and Safety Executive by the diving contractor; amendments to the following legislation: Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981; Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations 1989 (CIS 90-1434), Construction (Head Protection) Regulations 1989 (CIS 90-1435), Offshore Installations (Safety Case) Regulations 1992 (CIS 93-1339), Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (CIS 95-1930), Work in Compressed Air Regulations 1996 (CIS 96-2288), and Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 (CIS 97-1084). The provisions of the Diving Operations at Work Regulations 1981(a) (CIS 81-1441) and of amendments 1990(b) and 1992(c) are revoked. (70316)

CIS 97-1786 Nuclear Safety Council Resolution of 16 July 1997 establishing a register of subcontractors regulated by Royal Decree 413/1997 of 21 March [Spain]. (Spanish: Resolución de 16 de julio de 1997, del Consejo de Seguridad Nuclear, por la que se constituye el Registro de Empresas Externas regulado en el Real Decreto 413/1997, de 21 de marzo [España]) Boletín Oficial del Estado, 4 Oct. 1997, No.238, p.29027. (In Spanish)

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This Resolution (entry into force 5 Oct. 1997) is implemented under Royal Decree 413/1997 (CIS 97-378) and concerns the protection of subcontractors likely to be exposed to ionizing radiation hazards during work in controlled areas. It provides for a register containing details of all enterprises whose workers may operate in hazardous areas. The register will be maintained by The Nuclear Safety Council who may also investigate the authenticity of the information provided. (70318)

CIS 97-1787 Radiation Safety (General) Amendment Regulations (No.3), 1997 [Australia - Western Australia]. Government Gazette of Western Australia, 11 Nov. 1997, No.198, p.6209-6214. (In English)

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These Regulations (entry into force Feb. 1998) modify the Radiation Safety (General) Regulations 1983. The amendments cover the authorization and methods of use of equipment emitting ionizing radiation in the medical and paramedical professions and restrictions on this use. (70328)

CIS 97-1788 Annotated Regulations (1992) concerning cement pumps and distribution masts [Canada]. (French: Règlement de 1992 sur les pompes à béton et les mâts de distribution avec commentaires [Canada]) Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail du Québec, 1199 Bleury, Montréal, Québec H3B 3J1, Canada, 1993. 127p. Illus., ISBN 2-550-27180-7 (In French)

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Contents of these Regulations (entry into force 5 Nov. 1992): scope of application and definitions; advice on equipment and safety devices for cement pumps, distribution masts, pump-trucks, pipes, control elements and stabilizers; use and maintenance of this equipment, including maintenance of a record book for the pump-truck. Each article of the Regulations is accompanied by commentary and illustrations. In annex: instruction notice; general inspection of the pump-truck. (70326)

CIS 97-1789 Health and Safety - Transport - The Railways (Safety Case) Regulations 1994 [United Kingdom]. HMSO Publications Centre, P.O.Box 276, London SW8 5DT, United Kingdom, 1994. 12p. Price: GBP 2.80., ISBN 0-11-043237-1 (In English)

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Contents of these Regulations: definitions; contents of safety cases; preparation of safety cases by the railway operator and acceptance by the Health and Safety Executive or by an infrastructure controller; operations requiring a safety case; revision of safety cases when necessary and at least every three years; consultation with safety representatives during the development of the safety case; procedure to be followed when a safety case is not accepted. (70333)

CIS 97-1790 Commission Directive 97/65/EC of 26 Nov. 1997 adapting, for the third time, to technical progress Council Directive 90/679/EEC on the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents at work [European Communities]. (French: Directive 97/65/CE de la Commission du 26 nov. 1997 portant 3e adapt. au progrès technique de la direct. 90/679/CEE concernant la protection des travailleurs contre les risques liés à l'exposition à des agents biologiques au travail [Communautés européennes]) Journal officiel des Communautés européennes - Official Journal of the European Communities, 6 Dec. 1997, No.L 335, p.17-18. (In English, French)

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This Directive (entry into force 26 Dec. 1997) should be introduced into national legislation by 30 June 1998. It modifies annex III of Directive 90/679/EEC (CIS 91-29) and concerns the transmissibility of the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) agent to humans. (70314)

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CIS 97-1791 International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSC) - Japanese edition. Third Collection. (Japanese: Kokusai kagaku-busshitsu anzen-sei kādo) Kagaku-kōgyō nippōsha, Chūō-ku, Nihonbashi Hama-chō 3-16-8, 103 Tōkyō, Japan, 1997. x, 6, 1223p. Indexes. Price: JPY 29,200., ISBN 4-87326-263-1 (In Japanese)

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This compendium of chemical data sheets contains the Japanese translations of 555 new or revised International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs) prepared jointly by IPCS and the EEC. Previous collections appeared in 1992 and 1994 (see CIS 93-732 and 94-1124). ICSCs summarize essential health and safety information on chemicals, using a pre-selected set of standard phrases. ICSC sections include: chemical identification (name in Japanese and English; CAS, RTECS and ICSC no.; synonyms; chemical formula; molecular weight); hazards; spillage and disposal; storage; packaging, labelling and transport; summary of important data (including exposure limits in various jurisdictions, if any); physical properties; environmental data. In annex: list of the standard phrases used, in English and Japanese. Indexes by Japanese and English names, and by CAS and ICSC number. (70225)

CIS 97-1792 Compendium of International Chemical Safety Cards. (Chinese: Guoji huaxuepin anquan kashouce) Chemical Industry Publishing House, Huixinli 3-hao, Zhaoyang-qu, Beijing-shi, China, 1995. [10], 754p. Illus. Indexes. Price: CNY 75.00., ISBN 7-5025-1493-7 (In Chinese)

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This compendium of chemical data sheets contains the Chinese translations of 362 International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs) prepared jointly by IPCS and the EEC. ICSCs summarize essential health and safety information on chemicals, using a pre-selected set of standard phrases. ICSC sections include: chemical identification (name in Chinese and English; CAS, RTECS and ICSC no.; synonyms; chemical formula; molecular weight); hazards; spillage and disposal; storage; packaging, labelling and transport; summary of important data (including exposure limits in various jurisdictions, if any); physical properties; environmental data. In annexes: indexes by name (Chinese stroke order and English alphabetical), national and international warning symbols. (70228)

CIS 97-1793 Trichlorosilane. (Spanish: Triclorosilano) 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 8-0591. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: corrosive effects on the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; pulmonary oedema and asthmatic reactions (may be delayed). Long-term exposure effects: may affect the respiratory system. (70251)

CIS 97-1794 Boron trichloride. (Spanish: Tricloruro de boro) 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 8-0616. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: corrosive effects on the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; chemical burns; pulmonary oedema (may be delayed). (70252)

CIS 97-1795 Tridymite. (Spanish: Tridimita) 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 10-0807. International Chemical Safety Card. Long-term exposure effects: pneumoconiosis (silicosis); carcinogenic effects. Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 0.05mg/m³ (respirable dust) (ACGIH 1990-1991). (70253)

CIS 97-1796 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane. (Spanish: 2,2,4-Trimetilpentano) 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 7-0496. International Chemical Safety Card. Synonym: isooctane. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may affect the liver and kidneys. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; liquid defats the skin; may affect the liver and kidneys. (70254)

CIS 97-1797 2,4,4-Trimethyl-1-pentene. (Spanish: 2,4,4-Trimetilpent-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 8-0594. International Chemical Safety Card. Synonym: diisobutylene. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; chemical pneumonitis. (70255)

CIS 97-1798 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene. (Spanish: 2,4,6-Trinitrotolueno) 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 0967. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; delayed effects; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; haematotoxic effects (haemolysis; methaemoglobinaemia). Long-term exposure effects: may affect the liver (jaundice), blood (anaemia) and eyes (cataract). Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 0.5mg/m³ (skin) (ACGIH 1990-1991). (70256)

CIS 97-1799 Arsenic trioxide. (Spanish: Trióxido de diarsénico) 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 6-0378. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may affect the kidneys, liver and the cardiovascular, nervous and haematopoietic systems. Long-term exposure effects: may affect the lungs, skin, bone marrow, vascular and nervous systems, heart function, kidneys and liver; human carcinogen; may cause birth defects. Occupational exposure limit: TLV (as As): 0.2mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (70257)

CIS 97-1800 Boron trioxide. (Spanish: Trióxido de diboro) 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 10-0836. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Long-term exposure effects: may affect the kidneys. Occupational exposure limit: TLV: 10mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (70258)

CIS 97-1801 Cobalt (III) oxide. (Spanish: Trióxido de cobalto) 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 9-0785. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; asthmatic reactions (may be delayed). Long-term exposure effects: skin sensitization; asthma; pneumoconiosis; possible human carcinogen. Occupational exposure limit: TLV (cobalt, metal, dust): 0.05mg/m³ (ACGIH 1990-1991). (70259)

CIS 97-1802 Sodium dichloroisocyanurate. (Spanish: Trocloseno sódico) 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 6-0437. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; corrosive effect on ingestion; pulmonary oedema; chemical pneumonitis. Long-term exposure effects: dermatitis; may affect the lungs. (70260)

CIS 97-1803 Urethane. (Spanish: Uretano) 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 6-0314. International Chemical Safety Card. Synonym: ethyl carbamate. Short-term exposure effects: neurotoxic effects (central nervous system); may affect the liver. Long-term exposure effects: may affect the bone marrow, brain, kidneys and eyes; possible human carcinogen; may affect the reproductive system. (70261)

CIS 97-1804 Warfarin. (Spanish: Warfarina) 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 10-0821. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; delayed effects; may cause hemorrhages. Long-term exposure effects: may have effects on the reproductive system. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 0.1ppm, 0.1mg/m³ (as TWA) (ACGIH 1990-1991); PDK: 0.001mg/m³ (USSR 1988). (70262)

CIS 97-1805 Xenon (liquefied). (Spanish: Xenon (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 8-0609. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: may cause frostbite. (70263)

CIS 97-1806 Xylidine (mixed isomers). (Spanish: Xilidina (mezcla de isómeros)) 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 8-0600. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; delayed effects; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may affect the blood (methaemoglobin formation). Long-term exposure effects: may affect the kidneys, liver and red blood cells. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 0.5ppm, 2.5mg/m³ A2 (skin) (ACGIH 1990-1991). (70264)

CIS 97-1807 Acetaldehyde. (Spanish: Acetaldehído) 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 1-0009. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: delayed effects; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; chemical burns; may cause pulmonary oedema; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). Long-term exposure effects: may cause dermatitis; may affect the central nervous system, respiratory tract and kidneys; possible human carcinogen. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 25ppm A3, 45mg/m³ A3 (ACGIH 1993-1994). (70265)

CIS 97-1808 Isopentyl acetate. (Spanish: Acetato de isopentilo) 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 5-0356. International Chemical Safety Card. Synonym: isoamyl acetate. Short-term exposure effects: irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract. Long-term exposure effects: liquid defats the skin. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 100ppm, 532mg/m³ (as TWA) (ACGIH 1993-1994). (70266)

CIS 97-1809 Acetylene. (Spanish: Acetileno) 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 2-0089. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: risk of suffocation in confined areas. Long-term exposure effects: frostbite; may have neurotoxic effects. (70267)

CIS 97-1810 Acetone. (Spanish: Acetona) 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 2-0087. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may have neurotoxic effects (central nervous system); may affect the liver, kidneys and gastrointestinal system. Long-term exposure effects: may cause dermatitis; liquid defats the skin; may affect the blood and bone marrow. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 750ppm, 1780mg/m³ (as TWA) (ACGIH 1993-1994). (70268)

CIS 97-1811 Acetonitrile. (Spanish: Acetonitrilo) 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 2-0088. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; delayed effects; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may inhibit cellular respiration. Long-term exposure effects: may cause birth malformations. Occupational exposure limits: TLV: 40ppm, 67mg/m³ (as TWA) (ACGIH 1993-1994); 60ppm, 101mg/m³ (skin) (as STEL) (ACGIH 1993-1994). (70269)

CIS 97-1812 4-Chloro-2-methylphenoxyacetic acid. (Spanish: Acido (4-cloro-2-metilfenoxi) acético) 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 1-0054. International Chemical Safety Card. Short-term exposure effects: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Long-term exposure effects: may cause birth malformations; possible human carcinogen. (70270)

CIS 97-1813 2-Butoxyethanol. (French: 2-Butoxyéthanol) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 1996. 5p. 33 ref. (In French)

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Chemical safety information sheet. Acute toxicity: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes; may have haematotoxic effects on ingestion. (70271)

CIS 97-1814 2-Butoxyethyl acetate. (French: Acétate de 2-butoxyéthyle) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 1996. 4p. 19 ref. (In French)

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Chemical safety information sheet. Acute toxicity: skin absorption; irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes; may have haematotoxic effects on ingestion. (70272)

CIS 97-1815 Tetramethyllead. (Spanish: Tetrametilo de Plomo) Noticias de seguridad, May 1996, Vol.58, No.5. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: skin absorption; may have neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). (70273)

CIS 97-1816 Propyl alcohol. (Spanish: Alcohol propílico) Noticias de seguridad, May 1996, Vol.58, No.5. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Synonym: propanol. Health hazards: skin absorption; narcotic effects; irritation of upper respiratory tract; liquid defats the skin; may cause dermatitis. (70274)

CIS 97-1817 1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane. (Spanish: 1,1,2-Tricloro-1,2,2-trifluoroetano) Noticias de seguridad, June 1996, Vol.58, No.6. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: narcotic effects; irritation of the eyes, skin and upper respiratory tract; liquid defats the skin; may cause dermatitis. (70275)

CIS 97-1818 Tin inorganic compounds (as tin). (Spanish: Compuestos inorgánicos de estaño (como estaño)) Noticias de seguridad, June 1996, Vol.58, No.6. 5p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: irritation of the eyes, skin and upper respiratory tract. (70276)

CIS 97-1819 Tributyl phosphate. (Spanish: Tributilfosfato) Noticias de seguridad, July 1996, Vol.58, No.7. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may cause respiratory symptoms. (70277)

CIS 97-1820 Dipropylene glycol methyl ether. (Spanish: Eter dipropilenglicolmetílico) Noticias de seguridad, July 1996, Vol.58, No.7. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: skin absorption; narcotic effects; irritation of the eyes and nose. (70278)

CIS 97-1821 Xylidine. (Spanish: Xilidina) Noticias de seguridad, Aug. 1996, Vol.58, No.8. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: skin absorption; haematotoxic effects (methaemoglobin formation resulting in hypoxia and cyanosis); may affect the lungs, liver and kidneys. (70279)

CIS 97-1822 Zirconium compounds (as zirconium). (Spanish: Compuestos de circonio (como circonio)) Noticias de seguridad, Aug. 1996, Vol.58, No.8. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: may cause skin lesions. (70280)

CIS 97-1823 Triorthocresyl phosphate. (Spanish: Triortocresilfosfato) Noticias de seguridad, Sep. 1996, Vol.58, No.9. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: skin absorption; delayed effects; neurotoxic effects; peripheral neuropathy; spastic paralysis may be followed by flaccid paralysis of distal muscles in lower and upper extremities. (70281)

CIS 97-1824 N-Methylaniline. (Spanish: Monometilanilina) Noticias de seguridad, Sep. 1996, Vol.58, No.9. 3p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: skin absorption; may have haematotoxic effects (methaemoglobin formation resulting in hypoxia and cyanosis); may cause anaemia. (70282)

CIS 97-1825 2-Aminopyridine. (Spanish: 2-Aminopiridina) Noticias de seguridad, Oct. 1996, Vol.58, No.10. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: skin absorption; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system); may cause convulsions. (70283)

CIS 97-1826 sec-Amyl acetate. (Spanish: Acetato de sec-amilo) Noticias de seguridad, Oct. 1996, Vol.58, No.10. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; liquid defats the skin; may cause dermatitis; may have neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). (70284)

CIS 97-1827 Allyl glycidyl ether. (Spanish: Eter alilglicidílico) Noticias de seguridad, Nov. 1996, Vol.58, No.11. 5p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may cause dermatitis and skin sensitization; may have neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). (70285)

CIS 97-1828 ter-Butyl acetate. (Spanish: Ter-butilacetato) Noticias de seguridad, Nov. 1996, Vol.58, No.11. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Synonym: acetic acid. Health hazards: irritation of the eyes, skin and upper respiratory tract; liquid defats the skin; may cause dermatitis; may have neurotoxic effects (central nervous system). (70286)

CIS 97-1829 sec-Butyl alcohol. (Spanish: Alcohol sec-butílico) Noticias de seguridad, Dec. 1996, Vol.58, No.12. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: irritation of the eyes and skin; liquid defats the skin; may cause dermatitis; exposure to high concentrations may have narcotic effects. (70287)

CIS 97-1830 Chloroacetophenone. (Spanish: Alfacloroacetofenona) Noticias de seguridad, Dec. 1996, Vol.58, No.12. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: strong irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; conjunctivitis; may cause corneal damage; may cause skin burns; may cause pulmonary oedema (may be delayed). (70288)

CIS 97-1831 para-tert-Butyltoluene. (Spanish: Para-ter-butiltolueno) Noticias de seguridad, Jan. 1997, Vol.59, No.1. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: irritation of the eyes, skin and upper respiratory tract; neurotoxic effects (central nervous system); may have cardiovascular effects (hypotension); may cause skin disorders; may have haematotoxic effects. (70289)

CIS 97-1832 Crotonaldehyde. (Spanish: Crotonaldehído) Noticias de seguridad, Jan. 1997, Vol.59, No.1. 4p. Insert. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety card published by the Consejo Interamericano de Seguridad, 33 Park Place, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. Health hazards: delayed effects; irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; may cause dermatitis; may cause pulmonary oedema. (70290)

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CIS 97-1833 Planning work premises. (Swedish: Planering av arbetslokaler) Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 103 64 Stockholm, Sweden, 1st ed., no date. 78p. Illus., ISBN 91-7522-384-8 (In Swedish)

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This manual describes how to plan the construction and modification of work premises. It is important to involve workers and use their experience at an early phase of the planning. The tasks and responsibilities of the different persons involved in the project are discussed. Different stages of project implementation are described: planning; investigating; design; contracts; construction and renovation work; financial aspects; contacts with the authorities. Working environment factors to keep in mind during the project are described. Slides and a teachers' guide are also included. (70227)

CIS 97-1834 The working environment in the motor vehicle industry - A handbook. (Swedish: Motorbranschens arbetsmiljö - en handbok) Bengtsson B., Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 103 64 Stockholm, Sweden, 1st ed., 1996. 146p. Illus., ISBN 91-7522-527-1 (In Swedish)

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This manual describes Swedish regulations concerning the motor vehicle industry. It covers all aspects of the working environment, with examples. It can be used at the workplace for planning and training, including induction training. It is a complement to the Swedish directive on Work in the Motor Vehicle Industry (AFS 1995:6). (70229)

CIS 97-1835 Better working environment - The sea. (Swedish: Bättre arbetsmiljö - Sjö) Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 103 64 Stockholm, Sweden, 2nd ed., 1994. 141p. Illus., ISBN 91-7522-282-5 (In Swedish)

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This manual describes the working environment at sea and gives suggestions on measures to improve it. It covers: human beings and work; work environment factors; laws and regulations; safety organization in the shipping company and on ships; occupational accidents; hazards at deck; hazards in the engine room; hazards at the commissariat service; "happy ships". (70223)

CIS 97-1836 A guide to heat stress in agriculture. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Washington, DC 20460, USA, 1993. v, 44p. Illus. 76 ref., ISBN 0-16-042693-6 (In English)

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This guide outlines the nature and causes of heat stress and describes a programme for protecting agricultural workers from heat illness. The programme involves: assigning responsibility for heat stress problems; training workers and supervisors; acclimatization of workers; evaluating work assignments and the risk of heat illness; managing work activities and rest breaks; establishing a drinking water programme; provision of cooling garments and shade; and first aid to workers who become ill. Includes a summary chart in Spanish. (70209)

CIS 97-1837 Woodworkers - Safety guide for new employees. (French: Menuisiers - Guide de sécurité destiné aux nouveaux arrivants) OPPBTP Comité national, Tour Amboise, 204 rond-point du Pont-de-Sèvres, 92516 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France, 1997. 40p. Illus., ISBN 2-7354-0288-6 (In French)

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This safety booklet contains general recommendations applicable to all construction activities, as well as those specific to woodworkers for both workshops and on-site installation tasks, warnings concerning electrical risks and dangerous products, and first aid measures. It is aimed at new hires, part-time workers and employees with new job functions. (70305)

CIS 97-1838 Mobile boom cranes - A practical guide. (French: Grues mobiles à flèche relevable - Guide pratique) OPPBTP Comité national, Tour Amboise, 204 rond-point du Pont-de-Sèvres, 92516 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France, 1997. 55p. Illus., ISBN 2-7354-0297-5 (In French)

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This training guide is aimed at trainers to enable them to integrate safety considerations into their instruction, at building contractors involved with on-site installation of mobile cranes and at engineering firms. Contents: technology of mobile boom cranes; lifting operations; main risks; preventive measures. (70306)

CIS 97-1839 Making the right moves: Preventing back pain at work. Payne D.A., WHO Regional Office for Europe, Scherfigsvej 8, 2100 København Ø, Denmark, 1996. 50 p. Illus. 26 ref. (In English)

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This manual deals with the prevention of back pain through the teaching of good manual handling practices. Most work-associated back pain cases are related to degenerative changes and are quite common in 30-50 year old workers. Basic knowledge on manual handling injuries, lower back conditions, human kinetics and movement analysis is provided, emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of individual behaviour at work. This is because it is generally not possible to reach a definite reliable diagnosis of the cause of symptoms, based on the anatomical site of the pain alone. An assessment of manual handling tasks is also provided. (70068)

CIS 97-1840 Work, people, technology. (Swedish: Arbete-Människa-Teknik) Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 103 64 Stockholm, Sweden, 1st ed., 1994. 320p. Illus., ISBN 91-7522-414-3 (In Swedish)

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This textbook, written for engineering students, is an interdisciplinary introduction into the science of work, covering subjects such as: industrial physiology; ergonomics; physical hazards; chemical hazards; the social environment; organization of production and work; work environment and economics; work analysis; analysis of accidents and hazards; occupational safety and health regulations; designing and changing workplaces. (70222)

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CIS 97-1841 Creating healthy indoor environments: A road map for the future. Seltzer J.M., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.229-244. 4 ref. (In English)

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Twelve steps toward the creation of healthy indoor environments are outlined. The approach involves improving the knowledge base relating to the health effects of indoor air quality, better funding for research, training of physicians, governmental regulation, design and maintenance of healthy buildings, and timely management of environmental problems. (70104)

CIS 97-1842 Mutual recognition legislation: End-user protection levels for occupational protective footwear may be less than the Australian Standard. Taylor A., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 1997, Vol.13, No.1, p.27-32. 5 ref. (In English)

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Mutual recognition legislation enables a manufacturer or importer of occupational protective footwear to enter the marketplace through a participant jurisdiction and then legally trade that footwear in all other participating jurisdictions. Since the Australian standard for protective footwear (AS/NZS 2210) is not mandatory for the sale of this footwear throughout Australia, end-user protection levels can be below those required by the standard. It is recommended that the standard be enacted as a mandatory safety standard in all Australian jurisdictions. (70012)

CIS 97-1843 Recording, notification, compilation, and classification of statistics of occupational accidents and diseases: The Thai experience. Choi B. C. K., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1151-1160. 22 ref. (In English)

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This is a report of an ILO project in Thailand, conducted in 1995, in order to improve the national notification of accidents and diseases. The ILO code of practice on recording and notification was found to be appropriate for the local requirements. The existing notification form was redesigned and suggestions were specified for cross-checking the data base of the Workmen's Compensation Fund. (70040)

CIS 97-1844 National workers compensation-based data: Scope, coverage, benefits and uses. Foley G., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 1997, Vol.13, No.3, p.275-284. 9 ref. (In English)

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Criticisms of the use of workers' compensation data in occupational safety and health surveillance are reviewed and implications for the practical application of these data are discussed. The focus is on the national database maintained by Worksafe Australia. It is suggested that compensation data can play a significant part in achieving most, but not all, surveillance objectives. The data also provide a starting point for further research into the development of specific interventions. (70185)

CIS 97-1845 Technology statistics in 1995: Increase in occupational diseases and stability in occupational accidents. (French: Les statistiques technologiques 1995: progression des maladies professionnelles et stabilité des accidents du travail) Travail et sécurité, Nov. 1997, No.566, p.41-46. Illus. (In French)

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Statistics for the year 1995 published by the French National Health Insurance for Salaried Employees (CNAMTS) show stability in the number of accidents involving loss of work days. The number of accidents having caused permanent disability was significantly higher, while those resulting in death were sharply reduced. Occupational diseases continued to increase strongly, while commuting accidents were in regression. (70293)

CIS 97-1846 List of industrial accidents in May and June 1997. (French: Argus des accidents technologiques mai/juin 1997) Préventique-Sécurité, Sep.-Oct. 1997, No.35, p.65-68. (In French)

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A sample of 34 representative cases selected among the 181 major accidents entered into the ARIA database, managed by the French Ministry of Land Use and the Environment, during the period of May and June 1997. The list includes accidents caused by loss of control of chemical reactions and/or leaks of toxic and inflammable products, and the explosion of a grain silo at Blaye, France, in August 1997. (See CIS 97-2012). (70308)

CIS 97-1847 Consequences of occupational asthma on employment and financial status: A follow-up study. Ameille J., et al., European Respiratory Journal, 1997, Vol.10, p.55-58. 19 ref. (In English)

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A review of the employment status of 209 patients with occupational asthma showed that 3.1 years after diagnosis, 44% had left their previous job and 25% were unemployed. 32% remained exposed to the offending agents in the same job. 46% had suffered a reduction of income. Claims for compensation, size of the company, level of education, and age at the time of diagnosis were significantly associated with a risk for becoming unemployed or having a new employer after the diagnosis of occupational asthma. It is recommend that the French compensation system for occupational asthma should be revised. (70073)

CIS 97-1848 Characterising the transformation of New Zealand's OSH legislation and administration from 1981 to 1992: Moving from "Balkanisation of control" to employer management systems. Wren J., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 1997, Vol.13, No.3, p.221-227. 30 ref. (In English)

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The development of occupational safety and health (OSH) legislation and administration in New Zealand from 1981 to 1992 is examined in terms of the different approaches put forward during the period. The situation is described as developing from government management, through to tripartite management and then to a new system of employer hazard management. The changes demonstrate a growth in independence from a policy based on overseas examples to one that reflects the dominant OSH philosophy found among senior government officials and business leaders. Doubt exists about the significance of these changes for improving workplace health and safety. (70181)

CIS 97-1849 Fatal occupational injuries in Taiwan - Relationship between fatality rate and age. Chi C.F., Wu M.L., Safety Science, Oct. 1997, Vol.27, No.1, p.1-17. 22 ref. (In English)

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National accident report data from 1,230 work-related single fatalities in Taiwan were analyzed and significant factors contributing to 12 accident types were identified. Industry and age were the main significant factors. The relationship between age and mean fatality rate differed with industry and accident type. Fatality rate showed a rising trend with age for falls, collapse, being struck by falling objects, explosion, drowning and slipping and tripping accidents. (70025)

CIS 97-1850 What is the strategic value of occupational and environmental medicine?. Emmett E. A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1124-1134. 41 ref. (In English)

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The evolving interrelated nature of occupational and environmental health is emphasized in this article. Workers, industry and governments have much to gain from a strengthened strategic positioning of occupational and environmental medicine. (70036)

CIS 97-1851 Public and private workers' compensation insurance. Leigh J.P., Bernstein J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.39, No.2, p.119-121. 14 ref. (In English)

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An analysis of the costs of providing workers' compensation by public versus private insurers in the USA. Considering the benefit-to-premium ratio as the best measure of socioeconomic efficiency, public firms appear to provide workers' compensation insurance more efficiently than do private firms. (70063)

CIS 97-1852 Epidemiological analysis of serious occupational accidents in southern Finland. Salminen S.T., Scandinavian Journal of Social Medicine, 1994, Vol.22, No.3, p.225-227. 11 ref. (In English)

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Analysis of data on 99 serious occupational accidents in Finland showed that the risk of these accidents was highest for a man working in the manufacturing industry, at a construction site or in transportation and who was in his first year of service. Typical accidents were: falls from heights, accidents with machines and getting run over by moving vehicles. Most general injuries were fractures, loss of extremities, and injuries to internal organs. (70105)

CIS 97-1853 Workers' compensation in the United States: High costs, low benefits. Boden L.I., Annual Review of Public Health, 1995, Vol.16, p.189-218. 80 ref. (In English)

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Options for reducing worker's compensation costs to employers while raising benefits to workers include preventing injury and illness, containing medical costs and reducing litigation. While workers' compensation increases costs of injuries to employers, there is little evidence that workers' compensation reduces injury rates. Controlling medical costs and reducing litigation appear to be more promising methods for reducing compensation costs. Benefit data from several States are presented. (70121)

CIS 97-1854 Dissemination of OHS information into small businesses. Caple D., Hodgson R., Greig J., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 1997, Vol.13, No.2, p.157-159. 11 ref. (In English)

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Surveys of small business employers and producers and disseminators of OHS information in Australia revealed that the majority of information produced and circulated is targeted towards committed employers and OHS practitioners. Much of the information is duplicated by the various agencies and small employers tend to scan and disregard the majority of it. Business owners tend to rely on various networks to seek advice on OHS matters. It is recommended that this networking system should be further studied and utilized in the dissemination of OHS information. (70128)

CIS 97-1855 The management of occupational health and safety where subcontractors are employed. Mayhew C., Quinlan M., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 1997, Vol.13, No.2, p.161-169. 22 ref. (In English)

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Adverse occupational health and safety (OHS) effects associated with the use of subcontractors are identified and ways in which organizations have sought to control OHS risks are described. Factors to be considered include: consideration of the costs and benefits of employing subcontractors; senior management commitment; tender and contract requirements; OHS management policies; subcontractor OHS management system; subcontractor participation in decision-making; and control over subcontractor OHS behaviour. (70129)

CIS 97-1856 From theory to best practice - The changing of a culture. Martland D., Henry B., Safety and Health Practitioner, Oct. 1997, Vol.15, No.10, p.28-32. Illus. (In English)

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The implementation of a new safety culture as part of a major business restructuring programme at a plant for the assembly of aircraft components is described. A strategy was proposed in which health, safety and the environment were identified as key business issues, accountability for which lay with line managers. Key factors in the plan included development of health, safety and environment plans, the introduction of regular review meetings involving business managers and staff, and training and communications. Achievements to date are outlined, including a reduction in accident incidence rates. (70157)

CIS 97-1857 Occupational safety and health inspection scores predict rates of workers' lost-time injuries. Lindell M.K., Accident Analysis and Prevention, Sep. 1997, Vol.29, No.5, p.563-571. 32 ref. (In English)

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Relationships between safety inspection scores and occupational injury rates among civilian employees in 11 types of U.S. Navy shore facilities were examined. Workplace inspection scores were significantly predictive of lost-time injury rates, even in the presence of statistical controls for differences in facility characteristics. Results suggest that even a 1% improvement in safety inspection scores would yield an expected 1% decrease in the rate of severe injuries. Because of the large number of civilian employees at these facilities, the reduction in total injury costs would be nearly USD 2 million per year. (70217)

CIS 97-1858 Safety climate and attitude as evaluation measures of organizational safety. Díaz R.I., Cabrera D.D., Accident Analysis and Prevention, Sep. 1997, Vol.29, No.5, p.643-650. Illus. 22 ref. (In English)

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A set of evaluation measures was developed to examine safety climate and attitude in airport ground handling companies. Data on safety attitudes and the organizational safety climate were collected from 166 workers employed by three companies at one Spanish airport. Significant differences in safety attitudes and climate were observed in relation to the type of enterprise. Six factors were identified which accounted for most of the differences in safety climate: company policies towards safety; emphasis on productivity versus safety; group attitudes towards safety; specific prevention strategies; safety level perceived in the airport; and safety level perceived on the job. (70219)

CIS 97-1859 24th National Congress of Occupational Medicine in the Construction Industry - Theme I: Identification of harmful exposures. (French: XXIVèmes Journées nationales de Médecine du Travail du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics - Thème I: Repérage des nuisances) Revue de médecine du travail, July-Aug. 1997, Vol.27, No.4, p.169-196. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French)

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Proceedings of the 24th National Congress of Occupational Medicine in the Construction Industry (Paris, France, 12-13 June 1997) dealing with identification of harmful exposures (theme I). Contents: company exposure form and identification of harmful exposures; contribution of COLCHIC, a database managed by the INRS, to the identification of harmful exposures in the workplace; an example on help in identifying harmful exposure to products containing asbestos; harmful exposure sheets, a decision support tool for the workplace medical practitioner; exposure sheet for physical loads. (See CIS 97-1860 for theme II: Evolution of hazards). (70298)

CIS 97-1860 24th National Congress of Occupational Medicine in the Construction Industry - Theme II: Evolution of hazards. (French: XXIVèmes Journées nationales de Médecine du Travail du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics - Thème II: Evolution des risques) Revue de médecine du travail, July-Aug. 1997, Vol.27, No.4, p.197-224. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French)

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Proceedings of the 24th National Congress of Occupational Medicine in the Construction Industry (Paris, France, 12-13 June 1997) dealing with the evolution of hazards (theme II). Contents: sample hazard data sheet on aromatic amines; dust level measurements in woodworking establishments; exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons during road surfacing; assessment of historical exposure to asbestos; respiratory morbidity and evaluation of the exposure to silicon dust of chimney masons (See CIS 97-1859 for theme I: Identification of harmful exposures). (70299)

CIS 97-1861 Personnel premises. Ideas for designing and planning. (Swedish: Personalrum. En idéhandbok vid utformning och planering) Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 103 64 Stockholm, Sweden, 5th ed., 1992. 122p. Illus., ISBN 91-7522-320-1 (In Swedish)

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This manual describes Swedish regulations and recommendations for personnel premises. Such premises are built for the well-being of personnel and include rooms for the storage of clothes, showers, toilettes, food, resting, waiting rooms, saunas, exercise etc. Basic requirements of such rooms are described (different needs, dimensions, surfaces and materials, installations, furnishing, cleaning, non smoking areas, etc.). Sample drawings and checklists are included. (70226)

CIS 97-1862 ITGLWF 7th World Congress - Decisions of Congress. International Textile, Garment & Leather Workers' Federation (ITGLWF), rue J. Stevens 8, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium, 1996. iv, 81p. (In English)

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This report of the 7th World Congress of the International Textile, Garment & Leather Workers' Federation (ITGLWF) held in Melbourne (Australia) in April 1996 deals with different aspects of the Action Programme of the Federation and reproduces 14 adopted resolutions on: coordination of and support for trade union development, human and trade union rights, trade and development, women workers, child labour, multinational enterprises and ITGLWF regional structures. (70001)

CIS 97-1863 Annual Report - 1995. Institute of Education Work Safety and Hygiene (IVBP), PS 238, Cejl 10, 658 38 Brno, Czech Republic, 1997. 37p. Illus. (In English)

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The annual report for 1995 of the Czech Occupational Safety Office (IVPB) includes the organizational chart of the system and reviews of inspection activities, the Institute for Technical Inspection Praha and other activities. Trends in occupational accident statistics in the Czech Republic for the period 1983-1995 are also included. (70002)

CIS 97-1864 Department of Industrial Safety annual report 1996 [Singapore]. Department of Industrial Safety, Ministry of Labour, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore, 1996. 93p. (In English)

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This report describes the organization and functions of the Singapore Department of Industrial Safety. Activities include enforcement and regulatory activities, monitoring programmes, OSH training and promotion programmes, and special projects and studies. Appendices include statistics on numbers of factories and workers by industry and industrial accidents. (70059)

CIS 97-1865 Annual report 1996. (French: Compte rendu de l'exercice 1996) Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Association d'assurance contre les accidents, 1997. 47p. Illus. (In French)

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The activity report re-states the objectives and organisational structure of the Accident Insurance Association of Luxembourg by economic sector, and includes statistics for work-related accidents and financial results of the Association for the year 1996. (70303)

CIS 97-1866 Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Information Technologies in Occupational Safety and Health Information, Training and Education. ANPAT-NVVA, Rue Gachard 88 B4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, Aug. 1997. 378p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 2-87112-051-X (In English)

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Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Information Technologies in Occupational Safety and Health Information, Training and Education held in Brussels, Belgium, 13-15 November 1996. Papers are presented under the following headings: a general framework for information technologies in OSH; technological support of information, education and training; new challenges for information managers and specialists, end-users, and education and training specialists; trends and strategies with regard to information technologies in OSH. (70112)

CIS 97-1867 CASPS: Initial requirements for computer-assisted analysis of PLC software. Pegler S.M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 40p. 7 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-1430-1 (In English)

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This report surveys the provision of software support tools for a selection of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) commonly used in safety-related applications. The current state of the art is outlined and a set of initial requirements for a software toolset is defined which could be used to assist in the process of understanding a PLC programme written in Ladder Logic or a near equivalent. Potential applications of the toolset include the maintenance or upgrading of existing software, or in the complete re-design or replacement of systems. (70159)

CIS 97-1868 XIVth World Congress on Occupational Safety and Health. (French: XIVe congrès mondial sur la sécurité et la santé au travail; Spanish: XIV Congreso Mundial de Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, C/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1997. 743p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 84-7425-466-3 (In English, French, German, Spanish)

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Proceedings of the XIVth World Congress on Occupational Safety and Health held in Madrid, Spain, 22-26 April 1996. Papers cover: the globalization of economic relations and implications for occupational safety and health (OSH); living safely with chemical risks; the safety of installations and the prevention of hazardous events; information on hazardous substances and exposure monitoring; research on the prevention of chemical risks; hazardous materials in the construction industry; optimizing OSH through cooperation; lifelong safety education and training; OSH in small and medium size enterprises; occupational safety organization in construction; safety of machinery; control of OSH conditions; OSH in agriculture and in the health sector; selected research on the prevention of work-related disorders and diseases. (70210)

CIS 97-1869 Annual report of the Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association (JISHA) 1996-97. Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association, 5-35-1, Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108, Japan, 1997. 52p. Illus. (In English)

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This report describes the organization and functions of the Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association (JISHA) and reviews activities during the year 1996-97. These include: promotion of OSH at small and medium size enterprises; education and training activities; information dissemination and publication; technical services; total health promotion; promotion of a comfortable working environment; and international cooperation. Includes some statistics on occupational accidents and diseases. (70220)

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CIS 97-1870 The medical evaluation. Hodgson M., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.177-194. 109 ref. (In English)

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Medical conditions related to the indoor environment are reviewed and strategies for their management are described. Topics covered include: doctor-patient relationships; recovery and illness behaviour; risk communication; diagnosis; medical conditions (allergic respiratory disease, skin discomfort, mass psychogenic illness, mucous membrane irritation, central nervous system symptoms, lung cancer, sick building syndrome); characterization of exposure. (70100)

CIS 97-1871 A meta-analysis of epidemiologic studies of lung cancer in welders. Moulin J.J., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1997, Vol.23, No.2, p.104-113. 73 ref. (In English)

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This meta-analysis of epidemiologic studies carried out on the lung cancer risk among shipyard, mild steel and stainless steel welders consisted of calculating combined relative risks (RR). Similar values were observed in studies of the "any welding" or "study design" category. Furthermore, welders are likely to be exposed to asbestos and seem to smoke more than the general male population. A 30-40% increase in the RR of lung cancer cannot be explained by hexavalent chromium and nickel exposure among stainless steel welders. The combination of the carcinogenic effects of asbestos exposure and smoking may account for part of the observed lung cancer excess. (69993)

CIS 97-1872 Male and female occupation in relation to miscarriage and preterm delivery in central North Carolina. Savitz D.A., et al., Annals of Epidemiology, Oct. 1997, Vol.7, No.7, p.509-516. 38 ref. (In English)

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Report on a study investigating the possibility that both male and female occupational exposures might affect pregnancy. By telephone interviews including information on jobs the woman held before and during pregnancy, on her partner's job around the time of pregnancy and on potential confounding factors, the study was conducted on medically treated miscarriage cases (n = 418), preterm delivery cases identified through hospital record review (n = 582), and term, normal birth-weight controls (n = 787). Female employment around the time of conception or early pregnancy was not associated with the risk of miscarriage, whereas working during pregnancy, especially in the seventh month, was inversely associated with risk of preterm delivery. Male employment in several industrial occupations (particularly chemists and sheet metal workers) was weakly associated with miscarriage and somewhat more strongly associated with preterm delivery. Different results of previous studies are discussed in relation to the limited conclusions of this one in relation to pregnancy outcomes. (70049)

CIS 97-1873 Working conditions and cardiovascular disease. Siegrist J., Safety and Health Practitioner, Nov. 1997, Vol.15, No.11, p.35-37. 5 ref. (In English)

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Methods for assessing the role of stress in work-related illness are examined. Two concepts are put forward: the demand-control model of work stress, where the combined effect of high job demand and low job control may lead to stress reactions; and the effort-reward imbalance model, where similar tasks may produce different psychological and physiological reactions depending on an individual's method of coping with work demands. Use of the models in stress studies is described and the direct and indirect effects of stress on coronary heart disease are discussed. Preventive measures are outlined. (70030)

CIS 97-1874 Facial skin symptoms in office workers: A five-year follow-up study. Eriksson N., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.39, No.2, p.108-118. 28 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this long-term study was to investigate changes in and causes of facial skin symptoms among visual display terminal (VDT) workers in northern Sweden, based on questionnaire surveys, workplace assessment, interviews with personnel staff and clinical examinations of 163 subjects selected as a case-referent group from 3,233 VDT workers. Among workers with isolated skin symptoms, facial symptoms were of a transitory nature, whereas the prognosis for those with a more complex set of symptoms was less favourable. Changes in the use of VDTs and other electric devices had no effect on facial skin symptoms, and the strongest external risk indicators for lasting skin symptoms were in the psychosocial work environment and in individual health factors. (70062)

CIS 97-1875 Occupational exposures and risk of female infertility. Smith E.M., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.39, No.2, p.138-147. 69 ref. (In English)

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This case-control study examined the association between occupational chemical and radiation exposures and risk of infertility (diagnosed medically). Increased risk factors among 281 infertile women (when compared with 216 fertile controls) were exposure to volatile organic solvents, chemical dusts, pesticides and video display terminals. The crude odds ratios of risk were 2 to 3 times higher in women exposed to these factors than in those not exposed. (70066)

CIS 97-1876 Occupational risk factors for prostate cancer: Results from a case-control study in Montréal, Québec, Canada. Aronson K.J., et al., American Journal of Epidemiology, 1996, Vol.143, No.4, p.363-373. 32 ref. (In English)

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In a case-control study, 449 confirmed cases of prostate cancer were investigated. Job histories were evaluated and after preliminary evaluation, 17 occupations, 11 industries, and 27 substances were selected to estimate the odds ratio between each occupational circumstance and prostate cancer. There was moderate support for risk due to the following occupations: electrical power workers, water and railway transport workers, aircraft and metal product fabricators and structural metal erectors. The following substances exhibited moderately strong associations: metallic dust, liquid fuel combustion products, lubricating oils and greases, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons from coal. (70140)

CIS 97-1877 Sick-building syndrome. Bernhard J.D., et al., Lancet, 28 June 1997, Vol.349, No.9069, p.1913. 8 ref. (In English)

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These three brief communications are in response to a previous article on the causes, symptoms and management of sick-building syndrome (see CIS 97-1178). Factors highlighted include the contribution of extremely dry air to the dessication of skin and mucous membranes, and the role of mycotoxins. A new entity known as slab syndrome, associated with newly-built houses in India, is also described. There is a further reply by the original authors. (70153)

CIS 97-1878 Occupational asthma. Venables K.M., Chan-Yeung M., Lancet, May 1997, Vol.349, No.9063, p.1465-1469. Illus. 36 ref. (In English)

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The causes, clinical features and management of occupational asthma are reviewed. Common causative agents are listed and pathological changes resulting in airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness are outlined. Clinical features, epidemiological aspects, diagnosis, management of the disease and impairment assessment are discussed. Primary prevention measures include elimination of the agent from the workplace, reduction of exposure, and exclusion of susceptible individuals. (70241)

CIS 97-1879 Occupational asthma: A survey of epidemiology and criteria for the evaluation of the permanent damage. (Italian: L'asma professionale: Considerazioni sull'epidemiologia e sui criteri di valutazione del danno) Innocenti A., Medicina del lavoro, Jan.-Feb. 1997, Vol.88, No.1, p.3-12. 33 ref. (In Italian)

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Data on occupational asthma in Italy are reviewed. An estimated 500-600 cases occur per year. The medical and legal criteria used for diagnosis and compensation purposes are reviewed and criteria are proposed for the assessment of residual permanent damage. The importance of early diagnosis, medical rehabilitation and retraining of asthma victims is stressed. (70242)

CIS 97-1880 Occupational risk factors for gastric cancer: An overview. Cocco P., Ward M.H., Buiatti E., Epidemiologic Reviews, 1996, Vol.18, No.2, p.218-234. 231 ref. (In English)

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Epidemiologic evidence concerning the role of occupational exposures in gastric cancer aetiology is reviewed. Workplace exposures studied include asbestos, coal dust, nitrogen oxides, mineral and metal dusts, wood dust, ionizing radiation, agricultural exposures (pesticides, fertilizers), nitrosamines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and ethylene oxide. The review does not suggest a strong role for any specific gastric carcinogen; various carcinogenic exposures which also affect other organs may contribute to gastric carcinogenesis. Occupational exposures most likely act together with numerous non-occupational risk factors at various stages of gastric cancer development. (70243)

CIS 97-1881 Asthma in patients with farmer's lung during a five-year follow-up. Kokkarinen J.I., Tukiainen H.O., Terho E.O., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1997, Vol.23, No.2, p.149-151. Illus. 12 ref. (In English)

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An assessment of the incidence of asthma in 1,031 Finnish patients who had occupational farmer's lung diagnosed from 1983 to 1988. Seventy-four (7%) cases of asthma were found up to the end of the 5 years following the year of the diagnosis for farmer's lung. Prevalence of asthma was 1% in the year preceding the diagnosis. (69997)

CIS 97-1882 Preventive medicine and health promotion are overdue in the agricultural workplace. Schenker M.B., Journal of Public Health Policy, 1996, Vol.17, No.3, p.275-305. Illus. 95 ref. (In English)

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Health and safety problems among U.S. agricultural workers are reviewed. Topics discussed include the incidence and causes of occupational fatalities and injuries, and chronic illnesses and hazardous exposures (respiratory disease, pesticide illness, musculoskeletal trauma, noise-induced hearing loss, cancer and stress). Recommendations for disease prevention and health promotion include engineering solutions, education of farm workers and their families, and enforcement of health and safety regulations. Includes a brief history of occupational health in agriculture. (70080)

CIS 97-1883 Managed care for workers' compensation: Three years of experience in an "employee choice" state. Bernacki E., Tsai S. P, Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1091-1097. Illus. 13 ref. (In English)

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This article reports three years of activity of the Johns Hopkins Self-Insured Workers' Compensation Program in the State of Maryland, USA. The occupational physician/nurse team coordinates the entire care-management system from prevention of accidents to facilitated return to work. The latter includes follow-up of workplace hazards and corrections of unfavourable ergonomic conditions. The decrease in claims and the significant savings achieved indicate the success of this integrated approach in a state where employees are free to choose their physicians. (70032)

CIS 97-1884 Occupational reproductive hazards. Paul M., Lancet, May 1997, Vol.349, No.9062, p.1385-1388. 29 ref. (In English)

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The effects of occupational agents on the reproductive system (fertility, pregnancy) are reviewed and the role of the physician is described in terms of clinical assessment (identification of the source and extent of exposure, physical examination and documentation of health effects) and the education and management of patients. (70163)

CIS 97-1885 Communication between an occupational physician and other medical practitioners - An audit. de Bono A.M., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.47, No.6, p.349-356. 18 ref. (In English)

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Analysis of data concerning referral of patients to the Occupational Health Department of a general teaching hospital revealed that in 250 (53%) of the 472 referrals (386 patients) there was a communication between the occupational physician and other doctors. Factors influencing a communication included: reason for referral, particularly in respect of sickness absence; a medical diagnosis of psychiatric illness; and number of consultations. Communication was also more likely when the occupational outcome was ill health retirement, rehabilitation in work or modified work. Response rate from other doctors was high (98%), and the information received influenced the occupational health physician's management in 20% of cases. (70237)

CIS 97-1886 Genetic screening - Uses, potential abuses and ethical issues. Jacobs R., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.47, No.6, p.367-370. 7 ref. (In English)

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Potential uses, abuses and control of genetic screening techniques are discussed, and the ethical issues arising from their use are compared with those for existing health screening practices. Emphasis is on issues affecting employment. Requirements of international conventions and recommendations are reviewed, and criteria for judging the usefulness of screening procedures are outlined. (70239)

CIS 97-1887 Ethical issues in occupational medicine practice: Knowledge and attitudes of occupational physicians. Aw T.C., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.47, No.6, p.371-376. 12 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 70 occupational physicians in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Singapore showed that there was a lack of awareness of guidance documents on ethics, even for publications from their own countries. Only five respondents had consulted an ethics document in the past year. There was a difference in opinion between physicians from Singapore and those from the two European countries on whether specific occupational health activities were ethical. On some issues, there was no unanimity of opinion among physicians from the same country. Findings reinforce the need for international guidance on ethics. (70240)

CIS 97-1888 Socioeconomic status and lung cancer incidence in men in the Netherlands: Is there a role for occupational exposure?. van Loon A.J.M., et al., Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, Feb. 1997, Vol.51, No.1, p.24-29. 34 ref. (In English)

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In a prospective cohort study of 58,279 men in the Netherlands, occupational exposure to asbestos, paint dust, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and welding fumes was estimated from job histories, and socioeconomic status was measured using educational and occupational indicators. After 4.3 years of follow up there were 470 confirmed lung cancer cases. An inverse association was observed between socioeconomic status and lung cancer risk which could not be explained by occupational exposure to the carcinogens studied. (70089)

CIS 97-1889 Comparison of disability behaviour after different sites and types of injury in a workers' compensation population. Menard M.R., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1161-1170. Illus. 39 ref. (In English)

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An analysis of how a Canadian regional workers' compensation system dealt with injuries resulting in short term disability. It is suggested that the inclusion of an injury severity score would improve the data collection system. The difficulties in forecasting post-injury disablement and individual responses to somatic injury are outlined. The special cases of injuries to the eye and to the head are also discussed. (70051)

CIS 97-1890 Workplace conditions, socioeconomic status, and the risk of mortality and acute myocardial infarction: The Kuopio Ischemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study. Lynch J., et al., American Journal of Public Health, Apr. 1997, Vol.87, No.4, p.617-622. 39 ref. (In English)

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The negative effects of workplace conditions on mortality and of myocardial infarction risk depend on income level and are largely mediated by known risk factors. This was the conclusion of a prospective analysis of the disease risk in 2,297 Finnish workers, taking into account the job conditions and the socio-economic status of the subjects. Similar patterns were found for cardiovascular mortality and for all-cause mortality. In contrast, elevated relative hazards for acute myocardial infarction were observed only in men, who reported high demands, low resources and low income. (70000)

CIS 97-1891 The physician's role in helping patients return to work after an illness or injury. Canadian Medical Association Journal, Mar. 1997, Vol.156, No.5, p.680A-680C. (In English)

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This policy statement by the Canadian Medical Association addresses the role of physicians in assisting their patients to return to work after injury or illness. The physician is required to recognise and support the importance of the employee-employer relationship in assisting and promoting the return to work. Key principles concerning the physician's roles are outlined along with requirements for respecting patient confidentiality and managing medical information. (70084)

CIS 97-1892 "Pneumoconiosis" seminar of the Commission for Scientific and Technical Research in the Mining Industry (CORSS). (French: Journée "Pneumoconioses" de la Commission des recherches scientifiques et techniques sur la sécurité et la santé dans les industries extractives (CORRS)) Revue de médecine du travail, Mar.-Apr. 1997, Vol.24, No.2, p.61-102. Illus. (In French)

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Proceedings of a seminar on pneumoconiosis of the Commission for Scientific and Technical Research in the Mining Industry (Paris, France, 28 November 1996). Contents: introduction; definition, areas of application and biological mechanisms of pneumoconiosis; historical overview and statistics of coal miners' pneumoconiosis; role of occupational practitioners in prevention, experience of France, technical progress in the prevention area; silicosis in the mining region of Nord-Pas-de-Calais in France. (70300)

CIS 97-1893 Medical monitoring of workers exposed to asbestos - Special session of the French Society of Occupational Medicine on 26 October 1996. (French: Surveillance médicale des salariés exposés à l'amiante - Séance spéciale de la Société française de médecine du travail du 26 octobre 1996) Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Nov. 1997, Vol.58, No.7, p.567-594. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French)

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Proceedings of the special session of the French Society of Occupational Medicine on medical monitoring of workers exposed to asbestos (26 October 1996). Contents: asbestos and occupational health; health hazards of the main types of exposure to asbestos; risk assessment methodology in occupational medicine; chest X-ray surveillance; physiological findings in asbestos diseases; the contribution of inorganic analysis of biological samples; strategy of medical control screening for bronchial cancer. (70304)

CIS 97-1894 Cancer risk by social class and occupation. A survey of 109,000 cancer cases among Finns of working age. Pukkala E., S. Karger AG, Allschwilerstrasse 10, P.O. Box 4009, Basel, Switzerland, 1995. ix, 277p. Illus. 182 ref. Price: CHF 120.00., ISBN 3-8055-6152-0 (In English)

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This survey links data from the nationwide Finnish Cancer Registry and the 1970 Population Census. Social class accounted for much of the variation in the incidence of certain cancers, but there were many occupations with a cancer incidence of more than 50% above that expected for the same social class (asphalt roofers, insulators, tobacco industry workers, glass and ceramics decorators, miners and hairdressers). Specific risks identified included nasal cancer among wood workers, lung cancer among asbestos and silica dust exposed workers, pancreatic cancer among painters and hairdressers, and cancers of the upper gastrointestinal tract possibly associated with work in a dusty environment. Cancers of the lung, pancreas, liver, kidney and lip showed features of clear occupation-dependence. (70075)

CIS 97-1895 Pollution Prevention Incentives for States (PPIS) grant program: Assessment study. Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 401 M Street. S.W., Washington D.C. 20460, USA, 1996. 104p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. (In English)

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In this publication the EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) presents for the first time a comprehensive assessment of state pollution prevention activities funded by its grant programme. This study does not attempt to compare state programmes or rank them in any manner. Descriptions are provided to illustrate alternative models of implementing pollution prevention programmes. The effectiveness of specific activities is not evaluated; instead, EPA seeks to narrate activities as reported by the grantees. (70042)

CIS 97-1896 Environmental cost accounting for capital budgeting: A benchmark survey of management accountants. Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 401 M Street. S.W., Washington D.C. 20460, USA, 1995. 90p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. (In English)

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This booklet seeks to provide business managers and government agencies with an understanding of how firms are integrating environmental cost considerations into decisions about environmental investments. The aim is to assist firms in comparing their practice with industry averages and in prioritizing improvements. For government agencies a profile is presented of environmental accounting for investments, which can help to target technical assistance and policy initiatives. (70043)

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CIS 97-1897 Dampness and respiratory symptoms among workers in daycare centers in a subtropical climate. Li C.S., Hsu C.W., Lu C.H., Archives of Environmental Health, Jan.-Feb. 1997, Vol.52, No.1, p.68-71. 16 ref. (In English)

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The association between measures of dampness and symptoms of respiratory illness were investigated in 612 employees of 56 daycare centres in Taipei (Taiwan, China). There was a statistically significant relationship between the prevalence of sick building syndrome symptoms in workers and workplaces with mould or other signs of dampness. (70009)

CIS 97-1898 Prevalence of arterial hypertension in electric motor production workers. Kotseva K.O., Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1997, Vol.3, No.3, p.224-230. Illus. 14 ref. (In English)

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The prevalence of arterial hypertension was investigated in workers in an electric motor production factory exposed to organic solvents (toluene and xylene), noise and heat and in an unexposed control group. The prevalence of arterial hypertension in the exposed workers (46.2%) was significantly higher than in the controls (16.4%). Prevalence was highest in the group exposed to all risk factors (solvents, noise and heat) and decreased in those exposed to solvents and noise or to noise alone. There was a strong association between prevalence of arterial hypertension and length of service. (70022)

CIS 97-1899 Cancer incidence among women living on farms: Findings from the Iowa Women's Health Study. Folsom A.R., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1171-1176. 24 ref. (In English)

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This cohort study, based on a questionnaire survey of 37,148 women living on farms, analyzed site-specific cancer incidence among them. Overall cancer risk was lower than among non-farm residents. One striking finding was the elevated risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in farm residents. Although the aetiology of this disease is unknown, literature data on exposure to herbicides and pesticides do suggest a possible relationship to the disease among women as well as among men. (70052)

CIS 97-1900 Construction industry: Occupational health and safety performance overview, Australia 1992-93. Foley G., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 1997, Vol.13, No.1, p.79-102. Illus. (In English)

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This analysis of injury and disease data in the Australian construction industry is based on workers' compensation data. Information is provided on fatalities, injury/disease incidence rates, occurrences by occupation and age group, the nature, mechanism and bodily location of the injury/disease, time and day of accident, and the cost of injury and disease. Major areas of health and safety focus were identified as machinery and plant, hand tools and equipment, manual handling practices, the work environment (falls, slips and trips), and noise. (70015)

CIS 97-1901 The effects of firm size on injury frequency in construction. McVittie D., Banikin H., Brocklebank W., Safety Science, Oct. 1997, Vol.27, No.1, p.19-23. 7 ref. (In English)

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Analysis of data from the Workers' Compensation Board of Ontario, Canada for 1988-1993 showed that injury frequency increased consistently as firm size decreased. The trend was evident over several years and appeared to be unaffected by cyclical employment patterns. Factors which may account for this effect include better organization, greater awareness of health and safety, higher rates of unionization and better training in larger companies. New approaches to enforcement, education and information dissemination within smaller companies are needed. (70026)

CIS 97-1902 Safety and health in the construction industry. Ringen K., Seegal J., Englund A., Annual Review of Public Health, 1995, Vol.16, p.165-188. 41 ref. (In English)

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Safety and health problems in the construction industry, mainly in the US and Sweden, are reviewed. The organization of the industry is outlined and morbidity and mortality data are presented. Exposure-related problems include access to information, difficulties in exposure measurement and provision and use of personal protection. Major health outcomes are discussed in terms of traumatic injuries, musculoskeletal disorders and chronic and fatal illnesses. Current health and safety activities are based on planning and management, education and training, technological improvements, and federal regulations. (70169)

CIS 97-1903 Self-employed builders in Australia and the United Kingdom: A comparison of occupational health and safety outcomes and regulatory compliance. Mayhew C., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 1997, Vol.13, No.3, p.229-237. Illus. 16 ref. (In English)

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Results of surveys of small-scale builders in Queensland, Australia (n=500) and in the south-west region of England (n=100) are discussed in terms of differences in hazards, legislative understanding and compliance, and enforcement procedures. Long-term experience with the Health and Safety at Work Act in Great Britain has resulted in an improved understanding of health and safety legislation in the building industry. However, as a result of increasing levels of competition, protective practices are frequently compromised. Understanding of the legislation among builders in Queensland is more variable, and breakdowns in compliance are more frequently through ignorance. (70182)

CIS 97-1904 Motor vehicle fatalities in the United States construction industry. Ore T., Fosbroke D.E., Accident Analysis and Prevention, Sep. 1997, Vol.29, No.5, p.613-626. Illus. 67 ref. (In English)

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Analysis of data from the U.S. National Traumatic Occupational Fatalities Surveillance System identified 2,144 work-related motor vehicle fatalities in the construction industry during 1980-1992. The annual crude mortality rate was 2.3/100,000 workers. Vehicle-related death rates fell by only 11% during the period, compared with 43% for falls, 54% for electrocutions and 48% for machinery. The largest proportion of motor vehicle deaths occurred among pedestrians; flaggers and surveyors appeared to be particularly at risk. Results highlight the need for better traffic control management in construction work areas to reduce pedestrian fatalities. (70218)

CIS 97-1905 How prevention helps avoid fatal accidents. (French: Quand la prévention évite les drames) Cahiers des Comités de prévention du bâtiment et des travaux publics, Sep.-Oct. 1997, Vol.5, No.302, p.18-19. Illus. (In French)

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This article summarises the accident statistics in the French construction industry from 1948 to 1995. The number of fatalities varies with the size of the workforce, increasing during periods of strong activity and decreasing during recessions. The frequency rates show a consistent lowering trend, while the severity rates are moderately increasing. However, over a period of close to 40 years, the number of accidents halved and fatalities were lowered by a factor of three. These reductions are attributable to improved technology, but equally to the setting up, organisation and coordination of emergency and prevention systems. (70296)

CIS 97-1906 The cost of transport accidents and the cost of safety. (French: Coût des accidents de transport et prix de la sécurité) Janus, 1997, No.25, p.3-5. Illus. (In French)

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The annual social and economic cost of transport accidents is estimated at over 166 billion ECU. This report by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) provides estimates for the road, rail, air and marine modes of transport on the basis of accident data and costs registered in 1995. Approximately 97% of the total cost is attributable to road accidents, the scale of road transport being greater and its level of risk being higher than for other modes of transport. The ETSC makes several recommendations based on the findings of the report. (70302)

CIS 97-1907 Dental erosion in a wine merchant: an occupational hazard?. Chaudhry S.I., Harris J.L., Challacombe S.J., British Dental Journal, Mar. 1997, Vol.182, No.6, p.226-228. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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A case report of dental erosion apparently caused by professional wine tasting. Dental erosion has been attributed to many factors, including alcoholism, but no documented cases have been found before now linking it with wine tasting. (70050)

CIS 97-1908 A field exercise-physiological examination of fire-fighters trained for specific tasks. Malomsoki J., et al., Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1997, Vol.3, No.3, p.231-241. Illus. 14 ref. (In English)

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The physical condition of 47 fire-fighters was assessed three times during a period of 15 months. After the initial evaluation, a participatory life-style intervention programme was introduced which included regular physical exercise. Performance and physical fitness improved in about half of the participants as indicated by lower heart rate and blood lactate increase during exercise tests. There was a moderately beneficial effect on serum cholesterol levels. An increase in regular physical activity contributes to an increase in working capacity and physical performance among these workers. (70023)

CIS 97-1909 Senior house officers in medicine: Postal survey of training and work experience. Baldwin P.J., et al., British Medical Journal, Mar. 1997, Vol.314, p.740-743. 4 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 252 senior house officers in medicine in Scotland examined hours of work, working patterns, workload, attitudes to work and education and training. These doctors worked long hours, and they considered the pattern of partial shifts to be detrimental to their own health, patient care and clinical training. Efforts should be made to reinforce a close working relationship between trainee and supervising consultant. (70107)

CIS 97-1910 Occupational risk management in the waste disposal industry. Winder C., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 1997, Vol.13, No.2, p.145-156. Illus. 35 ref. (In English)

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A sample occupational health and safety plan for a waste disposal site is described. Australian legal requirements are outlined and activities involved in occupational risk management are discussed: planning, management and communication; hazard identification (special hazards associated with landfill gas, leachate, incinerator emissions and residues); risk assessment and characterization; risk control programme based on a hierarchy of control measures; site monitoring. (70127)

CIS 97-1911 Safety on the "inside". Heneghan G., Health and Safety, July/Aug. 1997, p.4-7. Illus. (In English)

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Recent changes in conditions of employment and in the safety and health regime inside Irish prisons are reviewed. Topics discussed include the threat of syringe attacks by HIV-infected prisoners on prison staff and methods of dealing with them, implementation of safety and health training courses, the introduction of new fire and emergency plans, and problems of overcrowding. (70155)

CIS 97-1912 Investigating the work ability of older employees. Williams S.N., Crumpton L.L., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Sep. 1997, Vol.20. No.3, p.241-249. 7 ref. (In English)

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The work ability index developed by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health was used to assess the work ability of 20 university employees aged from 50 to 55. Participants were asked to respond to questions concerning their physical, mental and social capacities. The work ability values of these employees were slightly higher than the reference values developed from previous research studies. The method may be used to estimate the work capacity of older employees and to determine required modifications in equipment design or working conditions. (70119)

CIS 97-1913 Occupational fatalities among older workers in the United States: 1980-1991. Kisner S.M., Pratt S.G., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.39, No.8, p.715-721. Illus. 42 ref. (In English)

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Analysis of data from the U.S. National Traumatic Occupational Fatalities surveillance system revealed that workers aged 65 and over had a workplace fatality rate 2.6 times that of workers aged 16 to 64 during the period 1980-1991. The highest rates were in mining, agriculture and construction. Compared with younger workers, older men were at elevated risk for fatalities caused by machines, and older women for fatal falls and homicide. Prevention efforts should focus on older workers in agricultural settings and on those at increased risk of workplace falls or violence. (70142)

CIS 97-1914 Women and occupational health - Evolution and future trends. (French: Femme et santé au travail - Evolution et perspectives) Romeo A., et al., Médecine et travail, Dec. 1997, No.4, p.10-37. Bibl.ref. (In French)

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This issue contains several articles relating to women at work. Contents: laws and regulations in France; monitoring of women by occupational practitioners; characteristics and specifics of women's work; psychological aspects; the relationship between age and health for working women. A survey aimed at better understanding the relationship between age, work and health was conducted on more than 20,000 employees. It highlighted certain differences between male and female workers in areas including working conditions, lifestyles and perceived health. (70309)

CIS 97-1915 Metal and steelworks, foundries, power and thermal power stations. (Danish: Metal-, stålværker og støberier, el- og varmeværker) Arbejdstilsynet, At-Salg, Landskronagade 33, 2100 København Ø, Denmark, 1995. 86p. Price: DKK 100.00 + tax., ISBN 87-7534-510-2 (In Danish)

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A systematic summary of publications and documentation regarding working environment and health factors in Danish metalworking establishments, steelworks, foundries and power stations. There are approx. 5,700 people working in metal, steel and foundry establishments and 14,400 people in power stations. The main working environment problems are accidents, noise and respiratory diseases. Other problems are strain injuries, cancer and thermal strain. (70230)

CIS 97-1916 The calculation of aircraft risk in the UK. Byrne J.P., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 95p. Illus. 32 ref. Price: GBP 25.00., ISBN 0-7176-1447-6 (In English)

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This report provides information required to assess aircraft crash risks at any site on the United Kingdom mainland. Data are presented on background crash rates, airfield related crashes, crashes below airways, aircraft impact parameters and other aspects of aircraft crash (fuel fires, debris from airborne aircraft, in-flight break-up of aircraft). Examples of crash rate calculations and effective target areas are included. (70176)

CIS 97-1917 Proceedings of the occupational health offshore conference: Aberdeen 26-28 March 1996. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 196p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: GBP 85.00., ISBN 0-7176-1423-9 (In English)

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Papers presented at this conference include: an offshore industry perspective on occupational health; review of current work practices and stress factors; inspection experiences of the Health and Safety Executive's Offshore Safety Division; health and safety management; safety in the supply of hazardous substances; informing the workforce; implementation of an occupational health package; noise exposure; protective clothing against accidental immersion; naturally-occurring radiation; indoor air quality; environment, health and safety in process design; ergonomics and hygiene in design; lifestyle survey among North Sea oil workers; cost-effectiveness of occupational health programmes. (70166)

CIS 97-1918 CONCAWE Review 6:2. CONCAWE, Madouplein 1, 1210 Bruxelles, Belgium, Vol.6, No.2, Oct. 1997. 25p. Illus. (In English)

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This review of CONCAWE activities covers evolving legislation on measures to improve air quality in the European Union and safety issues related to the production, storage, transport and use of petroleum products. Contents includes: ozone abatement in Europe; modelling the dispersion of particulate matter in air; fuel properties and vehicle emissions; oil industry safety performance; fire prevention during handling of petroleum products; pipeline accident statistics. (70187)

CIS 97-1919 Strategies and methods to promote occupational health in low-income countries: Industrial counselling in tanneries in India. Öry F.G., Erasmus University, Rotterdam, Netherlands, 1997. vii, 149p. Illus. 155 ref., ISBN 90-72245-72-5 (In English)

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This thesis discusses occupational health promotion among workers in low-income countries, with special reference to tannery workers in India. Topics covered: labour conditions in low-income countries; evaluation of the policies and activities of international agencies and non-governmental organizations in the field of occupational health; occupational health policies in India; assessment of exposure to chemical agents and ergonomic stressors in tanneries; respiratory disorders, skin complaints and low-back problems among tannery workers; health programmes and industrial counselling. Summary in Dutch. (70013)

CIS 97-1920 Local authorities report on health and safety in service industries containing statistics for 1995-96. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, June 1997. iii, 10p. Annex 135p. (In English)

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This report provides summary information on the nature of accidents in service sector premises for the period 1995-1996 and describes the inspection, enforcement and other activities of the Health and Safety Executive/Local Authority Enforcement Liaison Committee (HELA). An annex provides comprehensive information on local authority activity, accident case studies and detailed statistical data. (70113)

CIS 97-1921 Practical memorandum: Building site facilities for workers. (French: Mémo-pratique - Installations d'accueil des salariés sur chantiers) Sauvegarde des chantiers, Nov.-Dec. 1997, No.273. 2p. Insert. Illus. (In French)

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This information sheet contains a table which summarises the current regulations that apply to operators of construction sites with respect to facilities for the workers. It contains the general legal dispositions, special provisions for construction sites of less than four month duration, as well as the recommendations of the French Professional Body for Prevention in the Construction Industry (OPPBTB). A list of reference documents is provided. (70294)

CIS 97-1922 Health and safety - Leadership for the offshore industry. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Aug. 1997. 20p. (In English)

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This booklet provides guidance for senior managers on the improvement of health and safety in the offshore industry. Advice includes: making employees aware that health and safety is a top management priority; ensuring that systems in place provide a comprehensive view of company performance; establishing a safety culture and reducing human error; and involvement of the workforce. (70158)

CIS 97-1923 Health and safety priorities for the woodworking industry. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Sep. 1997. 4p. 22 ref. (In English)

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This data sheet identifies common causes of accidents and ill health in the woodworking industry and provides guidance on assessing the risks and the implementation of safety measures. Hazards covered include: hazards of woodworking machinery; being struck by flying and falling objects; falls from a height; transport; slips and trips; manual handling; fires and explosions; exposure to wood dust and hazardous chemicals; noise; and hand-arm vibration. (70246)

CIS 97-1924 Fairgrounds and amusement parks - Guidance on safe practice. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. v, 119p. (loose-leaf). Illus. 59 ref. Price: GBP 12.00., ISBN 0-7176-1174-4 (In English)

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This document provides guidance on safe practice for those involved in activities at fairgrounds and amusement parks: designers, manufacturers, installers, importers, suppliers and repairers of fairground equipment; inspection bodies; fair organizers; controllers; operators and attendants. A section on general health and safety management covers risk assessment. Appendices cover relevant legislation, managing the design process, contents of an operations manual, safe use of electrical equipment, fire precautions and gas safety. (70189)

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CIS 97-1925 Absolute and relative frequencies of automation accidents at different kinds of equipment and for different occupational groups. Backström T., Döös M., Journal of Safety Research, Fall 1997, Vol.28, No.3, p.147-158. 26 ref. (In English)

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Accidents involving automated production equipment were studied over a 2-year period at 21 plants in Sweden. 127 automation accidents were identified (9% of all reported accidents). The absolute and relative frequencies of these accidents for different kinds of automated equipment and for different occupational groups are reported along with length of sick leave following an accident. Special attention should be paid to the hazards faced by machine operators and the automated conveying or handling of workpieces. (70212)

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CIS 97-1926 Wood dust and nasal cancer risk: A review of the evidence from North America. Blot W.J., Chow W.H., McLaughlin J.K., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.39, No.2, p.148-156. 51 ref. (In English)

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The considerable differences in risks of nasal cancer among woodworkers in North America and Europe are reviewed. Studies of American wood-dust-exposed groups do not reveal excesses of nasal cancer. High rates of nasal adenocarcinoma have instead occurred among European hardwood furniture workers. As implication for industrial hygiene standards the risk of cancer in exposed workers appears to be preventable if wood-dust exposures do not exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average of 5mg/m³. (70067)

CIS 97-1927 Laboratory measurements of oil mist concentrations using filters and an electrostatic precipitator. Leith D., Leith F.A., Boundy M.G., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Dec. 1996, Vol.57, No.12, p.1137-1141. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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Mineral oil mist may evaporate during sampling from filters and electrostatic precipitator substrates used to assess personal exposure, resulting in an underestimation of true exposure. Collection of mineral oil mist was investigated with a precipitator designed for personal sampling and with a filter of either mixed cellulose esters or polyvinyl chloride. The amounts of oil mist collected using the precipitator were significantly higher than the amounts collected using the filters. Differences in sample collection and retention between the precipitator and the filters were particularly pronounced at mist loadings below 1mg. (70132)

CIS 97-1928 Pentoxifylline does not alter the response to inhaled grain dust. Jagielo P.J., et al., Chest, May 1997, Vol.111, No.5, p.1429-1435. Illus. 34 ref. (In English)

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To investigate the effects of pentoxifylline (PTX) following acute grain dust inhalation, ten subjects with normal airway reactivity were treated with PTX or placebo, followed by corn dust extract inhalation. Respiratory symptoms and declines in respiratory function occurred following grain dust exposure in both groups, although differences were not significant. Results suggest that pretreatment with PTX does not alter the acute physiologic or inflammatory events following exposure to inhaled grain dust. (70248)

CIS 97-1929 Asbestos removal: Workers under observation. (French: Retrait d'amiante: opérateurs sous surveillance) Dimerman S., Travail et sécurité, Dec. 1997, No.567, p.38-42. Illus. 1 ref. (In French)

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In order to evaluate the stress induced by the use of non-ventilated airtight workclothes, the laboratory of the environmental physiology service of the French National Research and Safety Institute (INRS) conducted a field study during asbestos removal operations. Measurement of cardiac and physiological stress enabled the formulation of proposed length of exposure. The importance of worker training in asbestos removal is emphasized, and a list of training organizations for this type of work is provided. (70301)

CIS 97-1930 Ventilation. Turner W.A., Bearg D.W., Brennan T., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.41-57. Illus. 6 ref. (In English)

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Principles of workplace ventilation are reviewed. Topics covered: guidelines on the delivery of adequate quantities of ventilation air; types of air delivery systems for residential and commercial buildings; techniques for the evaluation of outdoor air supply, carbon dioxide levels and the adequacy of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning operation schedule compared to the occupancy period in the building; demand-controlled ventilation; quality of outdoor air delivered to building occupants. (70093)

CIS 97-1931 The sick-building syndrome. Hodgson M., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.167-175. 71 ref. (In English)

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Epidemiologic and experimental studies on the causes and symptoms of sick-building syndrome are reviewed. Human risk factors are identified and other factors which may contribute to the syndrome are discussed: ventilation, presence of volatile organic compounds or bioaerosols, and psychosocial aspects of work. In the majority of cases, engineering problems and pollutant sources can be identified that contribute to the generation of complaints. (70099)

CIS 97-1932 Surveillance and intervention studies on respiratory cancers in asbestos-exposed workers. Merler E., Buiatti E., Vainio H., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1997, Vol.23, No.2, p.83-92. 86 ref. (In English)

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A review of the literature on asbestos-exposed workers with consequent risk of developing respiratory cancer. Surveillance programmes at the national, industrial and workplace levels are surveyed. The results of three chemoprevention trials suggest that there are, as yet, no practical tools for efficient, safe prevention of asbestos-induced respiratory malignancies. (69991)

CIS 97-1933 Asbestos, asbestosis, pleural plaques and lung cancer. Hillerdal G., Henderson D.W., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1997, Vol.23, No.2, p.93-103. 153 ref. (In English)

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The carcinogenic risks of exposure to asbestos and the radiological findings related to pleural plaques (which by themselves are considered harmless) are surveyed. Epidemiologic studies usually do not prove that asbestos-exposed patients without asbestosis are without risk. There is an increasing body of evidence that, at low exposure levels, asbestos produces a slight increase in the relative risk of lung cancer even in the absence of asbestosis. Thus all exposure to asbestos must be kept to a minimum. (69992)

CIS 97-1934 Elevated blood lead levels in children of construction workers. Whelan E.A., et al., American Journal of Public Health, Aug. 1997, Vol.87, No.8, p.1352-1355. 30 ref. (In English)

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Workers with high potential household contamination should be considered as a possible pathway for lead exposure of young children. 29 construction workers were identified from a New Jersey registry including workers with blood lead levels of 25µg/dL. 26% of these workers' children had blood lead levels at or over the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention action level of 0.48µmol/L (10µg/dL), compared with 5% of neighbourhood control children. (69998)

CIS 97-1935 Lead poisoning in an electrician: A bad substitute for a bad habit. Ward M. S., et al., Medical Journal of Australia, Jan. 1997, Vol.166, p.23-24. Illus. 6 ref. (In English)

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A case report of an electrician with unexplained abdominal pain. Blood analysis suggested lead poisoning, and this was confirmed by the occupational history. For ten years, the worker had chewed about a meter of electrical cable every day as a substitute for smoking. The cable insulation turned out to contain lead. (70005)

CIS 97-1936 Time dependence of blood concentrations during and after exposure to a mixture of volatile organic compounds. Ashley D.L., Prah J.D., Archives of Environmental Health, Jan.-Feb. 1997, Vol.52, No.1, p.26-33 Illus. 19 ref. (In English)

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Blood concentrations of nine substances were measured before, during and after exposure of five individuals to a mixture of 21 volatile organic compounds in a controlled chamber. The complexity of the elimination curve pointed to the existence of multiple storage sites within the body. With repeated exposure, bioaccumulation may occur in humans. (70007)

CIS 97-1937 High blood lead levels in ceramic folk art workers in Michoacan, Mexico. Olaiz Fernandez G., et al., Archives of Environmental Health, Jan.-Feb. 1997, Vol.52, No.1, p.51-55. Illus. 12 ref. (In English)

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Replies to a questionnaire survey of Mexican ceramic folk art workers showed that they are at risk of lead poisoning. Blood lead levels exceeded the maximum level permitted, even though they were lower than those found in a previous study conducted in 1970. (70008)

CIS 97-1938 Agrichemical safety and handling information: A users' perspective. Horne M., Laird I., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 1997, Vol.13, No.1, p.19-25. 6 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 80 New Zealand farmers revealed that little safe handling information on agricultural chemicals, other than that on the product label, was reaching the users. Main findings were an inability to read product labels because of small print or damage, a demand for supplementing product labels with pictograms, and the need for more data on environmental and health risks. The point of purchase, salesperson and product label were the preferred points for transferring advice. (70011)

CIS 97-1939 Exposure assessment for workers applying DDT to control malaria in Veracruz, Mexico. Rivero-Rodriguez L., et al., Environmental Health Perspectives, Jan. 1997, Vol.105, No.1, p.98-101. 27 ref. (In English)

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Chronic occupational exposure was studied in a group of 331 workers employed in spraying houses with DDT to control malaria vectors in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. Exposure was directly estimated for a subgroup of 40 workers by measuring DDT metabolites in adipose tissue samples and indirectly estimated for 331 workers using a questionnaire to determine their occupational history. High levels of DDT were observed in adipose tissue, highlighting the need for exposure prevention programs. The use of indirect measures of DDT exposure in epidemiologic studies of health effects is discussed. (70017)

CIS 97-1940 The influence of atmospheric chromium on selenium content and glutathione peroxidase activity in blood of tannery workers. Gromadzińska J., et al., Environmental Health Perspectives, Dec. 1996, Vol.104, No.12, p.1312-1316. Illus. 33 ref. (In English)

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The concentration of selenium and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and the activity of glutathione peroxidase were determined in the blood of 34 tannery workers who worked in an area containing chromium compounds. Urine concentrations of selenium were also measured. Decreased selenium concentrations in blood and plasma and elevated TBARS concentration in plasma were observed in the tanners compared to a control group. Tanners working in areas of high chromium concentrations had lower concentrations of selenium in blood and urine than did other tanners. The results suggest a specific adaptation of the body to the working environment containing chromium compounds. (70019)

CIS 97-1941 Effect of the consumption of humic acid with bound complex microelements in cases of occupational cadmium exposure. Hudák A., et al., Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1997, Vol.3, No.3, p.175-186. Illus. 38 ref. (In English)

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Blood and urine cadmium concentrations were measured in nine workers in an alkaline battery production plant and in 22 workers in a metal plating workshop. Measurements were carried out before and after a six-week treatment involving daily consumption of humic acid with bound complex microelements (HME). Following the treatment, blood cadmium levels were lower in both groups; urine cadmium levels were increased in the battery workers only. In most cases, the initially abnormal serum iron levels and markers of liver and kidney function improved. Regular consumption of HME may contribute to the prevention of adverse health effects in cadmium-exposed workers. (70021)

CIS 97-1942 Is that chemical getting into your body?. Scobbie A., Wilson H.K., Safety and Health Practitioner, Nov. 1997, Vol.15, No.11, p.22-24. Illus. 4 ref. (In English)

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Techniques of biological monitoring for assessing worker exposure to chemicals are outlined. Levels of hazardous substances or their metabolites may be measured in breath, urine or blood and results compared with health or benchmark guidance values. Where these values are exceeded, work practices and control measures should be investigated. Biological monitoring is most appropriate in circumstances where air monitoring may not give a true picture of exposure. (70029)

CIS 97-1943 HLA and immune nonresponsiveness in workers exposed to organic acid anhydrides. Nielsen J., Johnson U., Welinder H., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1087-1090. 21 ref. (In English)

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Immunobiological changes were studied in workers at firearms and electronics factories, already shown to be sensitized to organic acid anhydrides. They were compared with other workers, exposed to the same anhydrides and not sensitized; some of the latter group had work-related symptoms. Human leukocytes antigens (HLA) determinations showed significant differences between the sensitized and the nonsensitized subjects in HLA A25 and A32 levels. A possible HLA associated immune protective effect is postulated. (70031)

CIS 97-1944 1-Hydroxypyrene levels in coal-handling workers at a coke oven. Malkin R., Kiefer M., Tolos W., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1141-1144. 16 ref. (In English)

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This study shows the absorption of pyrene in a group of coke oven workers without measurable pyrene in personal air samples. Substantial contact of the skin to coal tar was observed and absorption was demonstrated through biological measurement of a metabolite (1-hydroxypyrene) levels in the urine from preshift to postshift samples. (70038)

CIS 97-1945 Cancer incidence among Icelandic pesticide users. Zhong Y., Rafnsson V., International Journal of Epidemiology, Dec. 1996, Vol.25, No.6, p.1117-1124. 38 ref. (In English)

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This cohort study examined cancer risk among 2,449 licensed pesticide users in Iceland. Included were also students from a horticultural college, gardeners, and vegetable farmers. The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) for all cancer sites was 0.80. Among females there was a significant increase in the incidence of cancer of lymphatic and haematopoietic tissues. The overall incidence of rectal cancer was three times the expected value. (70053)

CIS 97-1946 Cancer in banana plantation workers in Costa Rica. Wesseling C., et al., International Journal of Epidemiology, Dec. 1996, Vol.25, No.6, p.1125-1131. 23 ref. (In English)

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In this retrospective cohort study workers of Costa Rica banana companies were followed up in the cancer registry between 1981 and 1992: 29,565 men and 4892 women for 407,468 person-years. There was heavy exposure to pesticides, such as dibromochloropropane. 368 cancer cases were identified. Among men, an increased standardized incidence ratio was observed for melanoma and penile cancer; among women, for cervical cancer and leukaemia. Risk estimates for lung cancer were elevated among male workers with the longest period of employment. (70054)

CIS 97-1947 Reproductive toxins: A growing concern at work and in the community. Solomon G.M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.39, No.2, p.105-107. 27 ref. (In English)

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This editorial is a comment on a study conducted by Smith E.M. et al. (CIS 97-1875) concerning the risks of female infertility due to occupational exposures, in particular to toxic substances. (70061)

CIS 97-1948 Effects of 10-ppm hydrogen sulfide inhalation in exercising men and women: Cardiovascular, metabolic and biochemical responses. Bhambhani Y., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.39, No.2, p.122-129. 36 ref. (In English)

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The acute effects of 10-ppm hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) inhalation, a concentration equal to the 8h TWA occupational exposure limit recommended by NIOSH, were examined in 28 healthy volunteers, after two 30-minute exercise sessions at 50% of their maximal oxygen uptake. A decrease in oxygen uptake, with a concomitant increase in blood lactate, was observed in men and women. No significant changes were observed in arterial blood parameters and cardiovascular responses. There was a tendency for muscle lactate to increase and citrate synthase to decrease in both sexes in the presence of H₂S. These changes in oxygen uptake are probably caused by an inhibition of aerobic capacity of the exercising muscle. The appropriateness of the current occupational exposure limit for H₂S should therefore be re-examined. (70064)

CIS 97-1949 Mortality and cancer incidence among Swedish fishermen with a high dietary intake of persistent organochlorine compounds. Svensson B.G., et al., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1995, Vol.21, No.2, p.106-115. 64 ref. (In English)

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Two cohorts of Swedish fishermen were established to determine mortality and cancer incidence with different dietary intakes of persistent organochlorine compounds. The incidence of stomach and squamous cell skin cancers and mortality from multiple myelomas among Swedish east coast fishermen were elevated when compared with the general population of the region and with the west coast cohort, while that of colon cancer was lower. It is proposed that east coast fishermen, who are heavy consumers of fatty fish contaminated with organochlorine compounds, have an increased risk of developing stomach and skin cancer, though at the same time they have a decrease in mortality from ischaemic heart disease. (70070)

CIS 97-1950 Example of a stepwise reduction of occupational formaldehyde exposure in pathology. (German: Beispiel für eine schrittweise Verminderung der arbeitsplatzbedingten Formaldehydbelastung in der Pathologie) Binding N., Witting C., Witting U., Der Pathologe, 1996, Vol.17, p.380-384. Illus. 10 ref. (In German)

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Occupational formaldehyde exposure in pathological laboratory work depends on the efficiency of the ventilation system. A stepwise improvement of the ventilation system at a pathologist's workplace is described. Personal air sampling at a workplace originally equipped with a hood ventilation system resulted in values of up to 4mL/m³ in the pathologist's breathing zone. Lowering the ventilation inlet to the working level by connecting the hood to a suction unit resulted in an effective reduction of formaldehyde exposure to values of about 0.5mL/m³. Some uncomfortable side effects could only be overcome by installing ventilated worktables. (70072)

CIS 97-1951 Biomarkers of environmental benzene exposure. Weisel C., Yu R., Georgopoulos P., Environmental Health Perspectives, Dec. 1996, Vol.104, Suppl. 6, p.1141-1146. Illus. 44 ref. (In English)

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The use of biomarkers to assess environmental benzene exposure is reviewed. Methodologies for the determination of benzene in exhaled breath and in blood, and for the determination of urinary metabolites are described, and the interpretation of results is discussed. These techniques may be used to distinguish populations with different levels of exposure and to determine differences in metabolism. Results suggest that the dose-response curve is non-linear and that care is needed when extrapolating health risk from high exposure levels to lower levels. Time-series measurements of benzene in exhaled breath were used to evaluate a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model. (70079)

CIS 97-1952 Irritation and odor as indicators of indoor pollution. Cain W.S., Cometto-Muñiz J.E., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.133-145. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)

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Irritation and odour pollution are discussed in relation to health complaints associated with indoor air pollution. The use of biological assays to determine the potency of an irritant is described and investigations into odour and irritation thresholds in humans are discussed. Both animal and human data point to common physicochemical determinants of potency, especially for the weak irritants that often exist in indoor environments. (70097)

CIS 97-1953 The behavioral effects of indoor air pollutants. Ross H.L., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.147-166. 90 ref. (In English)

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Behavioural effects of indoor pollutants are reviewed. Topics discussed include: dose-related effects caused by exposure to neurotoxins; non-dose-related symptoms resulting from the psychological impact of exposure; diagnostic methods; and non-dose-related behavioural effects in relation to the immune system and stress. (70098)

CIS 97-1954 Potential health hazards from lead shielding. Klein R.C., Weilandics C., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Dec. 1996, Vol.57, No.12, p.1124-1126. Illus. 4 ref. (In English)

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Field and laboratory measurements were collected to evaluate the distribution and removal of lead from radiation shielding material and to measure airborne exposures during large shielding emplacement projects. The data indicate that lead is readily dispersed from visibly oxidized as well as freshly-cleaned shielding, but that a single coating of polyurethane can significantly reduce lead removal. While 8h time-weighted average exposures for workers constructing lead shielding structures were nearly all below the current action level of 30µ/m³, the distribution of airborne lead concentrations during this kind of work demonstrates a potential for overexposure. (70131)

CIS 97-1955 Environmental assessment of aerosols, bioaerosols, and airborne endotoxins in a machining plant. Thorne P.S., DeKoster J.A., Subramanian P., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Dec. 1996, Vol.57, No.12, p.1163-1167. Illus. 14 ref. (In English)

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Bioaerosol monitoring was undertaken at eight machining sites and one assembly site in an engine plant. The machining sites represented areas supplied with three different metalworking fluid (MWF) formulations. Bulk in-use MWF samples were collected at the machining sites and compared with air measurements. Gravimetric concentrations of MWF aerosol in the air were all less than 5mg/m³ and were significantly higher on the older engine line with fewer engineering controls. Airborne levels of endotoxin were strongly correlated with the bulk MWF endotoxin concentration and were particularly high when microbial growth in MWF was excessive. Levels of endotoxin in these plants may exceed the thresholds previously identified for acute respiratory health effects. (70135)

CIS 97-1956 Allergic contact dermatitis from hair products. (French: Eczémas de contact allergiques aux produits capillaires) Jacobs M.C., Lachapelle J.M., Le concours médical, 7 Dec. 1996, Vol.118, p.2983-2984, 2987-2988. Illus. 3 ref. (In French)

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Eczema caused by allergic reactions to contact with hairdressing products is common in hairdressers and their clients. Hair dyes and glyceryl monothioglycolate used for permanent hair wave are the main allergens. The eczema usually affects the fingers. The use of polyethylene protective gloves is recommended since latex and its additives may induce allergies. (70137)

CIS 97-1957 Increases of thrombomodulin activity and antigen level on human umbilical vein endothelial cells treated with asbestos and man-made mineral fibers. Urano H., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.359-366. 16 ref. (In English)

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The potential influences of crocidolite asbestos fibres and man-made mineral fibres (potassium titanate whisker and magnesium sulfate whisker) on human umbilical vein endothelial cells were investigated by measuring the activity and antigen level of thrombomodulin (TM) on the cell surface. Significant increases in both TM activity and TM antigen level were observed on cells treated with asbestos fibres at concentrations which showed no cytotoxic effect on the cells. Extensive increases were also observed with man-made mineral fibres. The increases in TM activity and TM antigen levels on cells exposed to these fibres may represent the physiological reaction of cells induced by the fibres. (70196)

CIS 97-1958 A study on the beryllium lymphocyte transformation test and the beryllium levels in the working environment. Yoshida T., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.374-379. 18 ref. (In English)

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The relationship between airborne concentrations of beryllium and workers beryllium lymphocyte transformation test (Be-LTT) values was examined by using data from a four year survey at two beryllium-copper alloy manufacturing factories. Test results showed that at beryllium concentrations higher than 0.01µg/m³, the T cells of exposed workers could be activated and the cell-mediated immune response could be promoted. At lower concentrations, workers were unaffected. Results suggest that at beryllium levels less than 0.01µg/m³ beryllium sensitization is not manifested and workers do not develop chronic beryllium disease. (70198)

CIS 97-1959 Evaluation of an activated carbon felt passive sampler in monitoring organic vapours. Byeon S.H., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.404-414. Illus. 15 ref. (In English)

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The efficiency of an activated carbon felt (ACF) passive sampler was compared with that of a 3M passive sampler for monitoring organic vapours. At low-humidity, the sampling rates of the ACF sampler were within ±25% of the charcoal tube reference method. At high humidity, sampling rates of the ACF sampler were again within ±25% of the reference method for toluene, methyl isobutyl ketone and perchloroethylene, but rates for n-hexane and methyl ethyl ketone decreased steeply with time after being high at the start of exposure. Sampling rates of the relatively strong adsorbates were much less affected by humidity than those of the weak adsorbates. (70199)

CIS 97-1960 Preparation and characteristics of standard reference samples of fibrous minerals for biological experiments. Kohyama N., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.415-432. Illus. 12 ref. (In English)

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Ten standard reference samples of man-made mineral fibres and other fibrous minerals were prepared for use in in vitro and in vivo biological experiments. Methods of preparation are described. Prepared samples were examined by x-ray diffraction and x-ray fluorescence analysis, and fibre sizes were measured by transmission electron microscopy. Physicochemical properties of the samples are presented. Sample sets are available from the Japan Fibrous Material Research Association. (70200)

CIS 97-1961 Variability in toxic response - Human and environmental. Renwick A.G., ed., Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, 15 Oct. 1996, Vol.2, No.2-3, p.75-242. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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Proceedings of a conference on human and environmental variability in toxic response held in Southampton, United Kingdom, 8-10 March 1995. Papers include: relevance of variability in toxic response to chemical safety and risk assessment; determination of risk evaluation criteria; variability in susceptibility of the nervous system to toxic insult; exposure factors that contribute to variability in toxic responses in man; influence of environmental and genetic factors on variation in human response to DNA-damaging agents; variability in immune response; modulation of toxicity by dietary and environmental factors; foetal haemoglobin as a possible marker of susceptibility to industrial pollutants; review of multiple chemical sensitivities. (70231)

CIS 97-1962 Occupational risk and toxicology evaluations of industrial water conditioning. Broussard G., Bramanti O., Marchese F.M., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.47, No.6, p.337-340. 4 ref. (In English)

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Chemical hazards associated with the wide use of chemical treatment programmes for industrial water cooling systems are investigated. Chemicals used to inhibit scaling, corrosion and biofouling in water cooling equipment are described, and those representing sources of toxicological risk are identified. Preventive measures are outlined: safe handling and storage of toxic chemicals, and use of personal protection. (70234)

CIS 97-1963 Flour protein antigens in occupational flour sensitivity. Savolainen H., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.47, No.6, p.341-343. Illus. 21 ref. (In English)

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Serum samples from 30 subjects with flour hypersensitivity were analyzed for wheat or flour protein antibodies. All subjects had been occupationally exposed to flour. Rhinitis and asthma cases were associated more with flour antigens of low molecular weight, while flour-induced dermatitis was associated with antigens in all size classes. In all cases, a rye flour antigen was prominent. While the test may be used to verify an exposure to flour, it does not substitute for conventional immunologic diagnostic tests. (70235)

CIS 97-1964 A safety officer's notes: Occupational skin disease. Safety Review, Sep. 1997, No.62, insert p.i-vii. (In English)

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Types and causes of occupational skin diseases are described: allergic and irritant contact dermatitis (eczema); skin cancer (from exposure to ultraviolet radiation); contact urticaria; contact vitiligo (leukoderma); and photodermatitis. The legal position is outlined, and methods of risk assessment and exposure control are described. (70003)

CIS 97-1965 Risk of cancer and exposure to gasoline vapors. Lynge E., et al., American Journal of Epidemiology, 1997, Vol.145, No.5, p.449-458. 75 ref. (In English)

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Cancer incidence in a cohort of 19,000 service station workers from Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland was investigated. The workers were exposed to gasoline vapours with benzene levels estimated to be 0.5-1mg/m³. During 20 years of follow-up 1,300 incident cancers were observed. In comparison with national incidence rates, the exposed cohort showed no excess risk of leukaemia or acute myeloid leukaemia, a 30% elevated risk of kidney cancer, and a previously unnoticed risk of nasal cancer. (70016)

CIS 97-1966 Occupational asthma due to a widely used soft solder flux not containing colophony. Convery R.P., Ward R.J., Hendrick D.J., European Respiratory Journal, 1997, Vol.10, p.238-240. Illus. 6 ref. (In English)

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A case is reported of a woman employed as a gas appliance servicing engineer who presented with symptoms of occupational asthma. The causative agent was thought to be a noncolophony soft solder flux (TELUX®), the precise composition of which was unknown. Specific inhalation challenge tests demonstrated both late asthmatic reactions and short-lived increases in airway responsiveness. The causative agent within the solder flux may be in the zinc or mineral oil components. (70071)

CIS 97-1967 Occupational asthma due to chrome and nickel electroplating. Bright P., et al., Thorax, 1997, Vol.52, p.28-32. Illus. 25 ref. (In English)

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The clinical features of chrome-induced occupational asthma in seven subjects exposed to chrome and nickel fumes in metal electroplating works are described. Diagnosis was made from a history of asthma with rest day improvement, and confirmed by specific bronchial provocation testing with potassium dichromate and nickel chloride. Sensitivity to chrome may occur in situations where exposure levels are likely to be within the current exposure standards. There may be cross reactivity with nickel. (70076)

CIS 97-1968 Reactive airways dysfunction syndrome due to chlorine: Sequential bronchial biopsies and functional assessment. Lemière C., Malo J.L., Boutet M., European Respiratory Journal, 1997, Vol.10, p.241-244. Illus. 15 ref. (In English)

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A case report is presented of a worker in a water-filtration plant who abruptly inhaled high concentrations of chlorine. He experienced immediate nasal, throat, retrosternal burning and wheezing. Symptoms persisted during and after the workshift. Bronchial biopsies showed histological abnormalities. The patient was treated with inhaled steroids and was asymptomatic five months after the incident. The case shows that rapid airways dysfunction syndrome can cause acute, marked, though partially reversible, histological abnormalities. (70078)

CIS 97-1969 Hard metal lung disease and pneumothorax. Wahbi Z.K., Arnold A.G., Newman Taylor A.J., Respiratory Medicine, 1997, Vol.91, No.2, p.103-105. Illus. 7 ref. (In English)

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A case is reported of spontaneous pneumothorax in a metal grinder employed for eight years in a small workshop grinding tungsten carbide tips with diamonds. A lung biopsy taken during thoracotomy revealed changes characteristic of giant cell interstitial pneumonia, as seen in hard metal disease. The possibility of underlying respiratory disease should be considered in all cases of apparently spontaneous primary pneumothorax. Early diagnosis of interstitial lung disease is necessary for effective medical treatment and removal from the source of exposure. (70083)

CIS 97-1970 Asbestos disease in foundrymen. Langer A.M., Nolan R.P., Wyart-Remy M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.39, No.8, p.699-700. 18 ref. (In English)

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These two letters argue that data presented in an earlier article on respiratory disease as a result of talc inhalation (see CIS 96-1848) do not support the conclusion that "talc-containing asbestos fibres" were responsible for the pleural and interstitial findings in the three foundrymen studied. Crocidolite and amosite found in the bronchoalveolar lavages of these workers are never associated mineralogically with talc, suggesting the presence of other asbestos dust sources at their worksites. Studies have shown that there is no excess cancer risk among talc workers. (70141)

CIS 97-1971 Metal fume fever: Characterization of clinical and plasma IL-6 responses in controlled human exposures to zinc oxide fume at and below the threshold limit value. Fine J.M., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.39, No.8, p.722-726. Illus. 20 ref. (In English)

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In a study of the clinical effects of exposure to low concentrations of zinc oxide, 13 subjects were exposed to air or to 2.5 or 5mg/m³ of furnace-generated zinc oxide fume for 2h. Symptoms and temperature were recorded and blood samples were taken after exposure. The rise in oral temperature was greater after inhalation of zinc oxide than after air inhalation. Plasma levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), a pyrogen, were significantly elevated after exposure to 5mg/m³ of zinc oxide. The predominant symptoms reported were myalgias, cough and fatigue. Inhalation of zinc oxide for 2h at the current threshold limit value of 5mg/m³ produces fever, symptoms and elevation in plasma IL-6 levels. (70143)

CIS 97-1972 Pingueculae and pterygia in motorcycle policemen. Nakaishi H., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.325-329. 18 ref. (In English)

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A study of 783 motor cycle policemen and 207 control indoor workers in Japan involved periodic eye examinations and recording of pingueculae and pterygia, thought to be associated with corneal and conjunctival microtrauma from exposure to sunlight and/or dust. The overall prevalence of pingueculae was 37.7% among the policemen and 30.6% among the controls. The prevalence of pterygia was too small to be analyzed. It is recommended that motorcycle policemen wear eye protection (goggles, face shields) to prevent the development of these lesions. (70192)

CIS 97-1973 Genotoxic effects in workers exposed to benzene: With special reference to exposure markers and confounding factors. Bogadi-Šare A., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.367-373. 31 ref. (In English)

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Cytogenetic tests were carried out on the lymphocytes of 49 female shoemakers exposed to benzene and toluene. Levels of benzene and toluene in the workers' blood and levels of phenol in urine were also measured. Chromosome aberration analysis revealed a significant increase in dicentric incidence in the exposed workers with respect to a control group. While significant correlation between cytogenetic test results and exposure biomarkers was not established, correlation between cytogenetic test results and data on confounding factors (age, alcohol consumption) was marked. The influence of confounding factors should be considered when estimating individual genotoxicity risk related to low level benzene exposure. (70197)

CIS 97-1974 Epidemic of liver disease caused by hydrochlorofluorocarbons used as ozone-sparing substitutes of chlorofluorocarbons. Hoet P., et al., Lancet, 23 Aug. 1997, Vol.350, No.9077, p.556-559. Illus. 17 ref. (In English)

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An epidemic of liver disease among nine industrial workers who had had repeated accidental exposure to a mixture of 1,1-dichloro-2,2,2-trifluoroethane and 1-chloro-1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethane is reported. Both compounds are metabolized to form reactive intermediates implicated in the hepatotoxicity of halothane. Tests showed that repeated exposure to these substances can result in serious liver injury in a large proportion of the exposed population. Trifluoroacetyl-altered liver proteins may be involved in the mechanism of hepatotoxicity. (70201)

CIS 97-1975 Tuberculosis mortality and silica exposure: A case-control study based on a national mortality database for the years 1983-1992. Chen G.X., et al., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July/Sep. 1997, Vol.3, No.3, p.163-170. Illus. 44 ref. (In English)

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Data from the U.S. National Occupational Mortality Surveillance database for 1983-1992 were analyzed. Odds ratios (ORs) for mortality from respiratory tuberculosis (TB) associated with potential high and intermediate exposures to silica were 1.30 and 1.07 respectively, adjusting for silicosis, other pneumoconioses, age, gender, race, socioeconomic status and potential exposure to active TB. The elevated OR was seen in all subgroups: male, female, white and black. Potential exposure to silica alone, in the absence of silicosis, is associated with respiratory TB mortality, with a dose-response relationship. (70214)

CIS 97-1976 Occurrence of neuropsychiatric symptoms at low levels of occupational exposure to organic solvents and relationships to health, lifestyle and stress. Friis L., Norbäck D., Edling C., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July/Sep. 1997, Vol.3, No.3, p.184-189. 28 ref. (In English)

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The prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in 54 iron ore miners under notice of dismissal and in 124 age-matched controls was investigated. Several common factors influenced the prevalence of symptoms: occupational exposure to relatively low levels of organic solvents; illness demanding regular medication; alcohol consumption; and stressful life events such as job loss. The influences on neuropsychiatric symptoms of common exposures other than solvent exposure should be considered in studies of neurotoxic effects in solvent-exposed workers. (70215)

CIS 97-1977 Occupational exposure to inorganic mercury vapour and reproductive outcomes. Elghany N.A., et al., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.47, No.6, p.333-336. 15 ref. (In English)

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Pregnancy outcomes were investigated among 46 women production workers exposed to inorganic mercury vapour and 19 unexposed controls. There were 104 recorded pregnancies during the period 1948-1977. A higher frequency of adverse reproductive outcomes, especially congenital abnormalities, was observed among women exposed to inorganic mercury at levels at, or substantially lower than, 0.6mg/m³; no significant differences in stillbirth or miscarriage rates were noted between the two groups. The increased risk observed was not statistically significant. (70233)

CIS 97-1978 Changes in neuropsychological symptoms and moods among tanker drivers exposed to gasoline during a work week. Hakkola M., Honkasalo M.L., Pulkkinen P., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.47, No.6, p.344-348. 14 ref. (In English)

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In a questionnaire survey of 101 road tanker drivers and a control group of 100 milk delivery drivers, tanker drivers scored significantly higher on the fatigue scale at the end of the work week than before the work week; the difference was smaller among milk delivery drivers. Tanker drivers with long exposure to gasoline showed a significantly steeper increase in the fatigue scale than drivers with short exposure. Acute symptoms (headache, dizziness, nausea, dyspnoea) during exposure situations were reported by 20% of tanker drivers. (70236)

CIS 97-1979 Biomonitoring: A new frontier. (French: Surveillance biologique: une nouvelle frontière) Ferrier V., Travail et sécurité, Nov. 1997, No.566, p.13-17. Illus. 2 ref. (In French)

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This is a general article on biomonitoring published on the occasion of a seminar entitled "Biomonitoring: Essential tool for prevention", which took place on November 19, 1997 in Nancy, France. The themes covered include a definition of biomonitoring, its integration in occupational health, biological exposure indices (BEIs), the link with atmospherical control and the impact on employees. The specific case of lead, the first toxic substance to be subjected to mandatory biomonitoring in France, is included. Finally, the article describes the French toxicokinetic and metabolic assessment service for chemicals, operated by INRS. (70291)

CIS 97-1980 Human susceptibility to indoor contaminants. Bascom R., Kesavanathan J., Swift D.L., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.119-132. 23 ref. (In English)

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The issue of human susceptibility to indoor contaminants is examined, focusing on upper respiratory symptoms and diseases. Factors influencing toxicity are identified and the effects of individual immunologic status are described. Epidemiologic evidence of variability in the human respiratory response to a variety of physical, biological and chemical agents is summarized. (70096)

CIS 97-1981 End-stage renal disease among silica-exposed gold miners: A new method for assessing incidence among epidemiologic cohorts. Calvert G.M., Steenland K., Palu S., Journal of the American Medical Association, Apr. 1997, Vol.277, No.15, p.1219-1223. 37 ref. (In English)

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The incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was studied in a cohort of 2412 white male gold miners who had worked underground for at least one year. Exposure to silica was evaluated. Based on the 11 cohort members identified with ESRD, the risk in the cohort was elevated compared with the U.S. population. The risk was greatest for non-systemic ESRD and increased with years of employment underground. Results provide evidence that silica exposure is associated with increased risk for ESRD. (70164)

CIS 97-1982 Exposures to inhalable and "total" oil mist aerosol by metal machining shop workers. Wilsey P.W., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Dec. 1996, Vol.57, No.12, p.1149-1153. Illus. 17 ref. (In English)

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Personal exposures to cutting oil aerosols in a metal machining facility were measured by a new approach based on collection of the inhalable fraction, intended to represent all the particles that are capable of entering through the nose and/or mouth during breathing. Workers wore two personal aerosol samplers, a 37mm type for total aerosol exposure, and the other for inhalable aerosol exposure. Results were consistent with findings in other industries and indicated that exposure to inhalable aerosol was higher than exposure to "total" aerosol. Studies have shown that the 37mm sampler undersamples with respect to true total aerosol and inhalable aerosol. Future exposures will be assessed on the basis of the inhalable fraction. (70133)

CIS 97-1983 Exposure assessment for a field investigation of the acute respiratory effects of metalworking fluids. I. Summary of findings. Woskie S.R., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Dec. 1996, Vol.57, No.12, p.1154-1162. Illus. 35 ref. (In English)

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Worker exposures to metalworking fluids at an automotive part machining facility were evaluated. Exposures were measured as the inhalable concentrations of the metalworking fluid aerosol, a variety of metals and elements, and endotoxin. The level of culturable bacteria in the aerosol fraction less than 8µm was also measured. The exposed workers had higher inhalable aerosol exposures, higher airborne culturable microbial counts, and higher airborne endotoxin levels than unexposed workers. Elemental concentrations of iron, chlorine and sulfur were also higher among the exposed workers. (70134)

CIS 97-1984 Comparison of metalworking fluid mist exposures from machining with different levels of machine enclosure. Hands D., et al., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Dec. 1996, Vol.57, No.12, p.1173-1178. Illus. 16 ref. (In English)

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Personal samples from automotive machining and grinding operations collected over six years were divided into three groups based on the type and extent of control measures: machining equipment with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) total enclosures and local exhaust ventilation; machining equipment with partial or retrofit enclosures and local exhaust ventilation; and equipment with little or no enclosure. Employees operating equipment with OEM enclosures had significantly lower exposures than the other groups. There was no difference between the exposures of operators of equipment with retrofit enclosures compared to operators without enclosures. OEM enclosures provide the most effective control of metalworking fluid mist exposure. (70136)

CIS 97-1985 Accumulated body burden and endogenous release of lead in employees of a lead smelter. Fleming D.E.B., et al., Environmental Health Perspectives, Feb. 1997, Vol.105, No.2, p.224-233. Illus. 31 ref. (In English)

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Bone lead levels were measured by X-ray fluorescence in a population of 367 active and 14 retired lead smelter workers. Whole-blood lead readings from the workers generated a cumulative blood lead index (CBLI) that approximated the level of lead exposure over time. Relations between bone lead concentration and CBLI demonstrated a distinctly nonlinear appearance. When the active population was divided according to date of hire, a significant difference in the bone lead-CBLI slope emerged. The transfer of lead from blood to bone in the workers has apparently changed over time, possibly as a consequence of different exposure conditions. (70170)

CIS 97-1986 Risk assessment of occupational exposure to bitumen fumes in the road paving and roofing industries. Hatjian B., et al., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 1997, Vol.13, No.1, p.65-78. Illus. 19 ref. (In English)

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Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in bitumen fumes was assessed by ambient and biological monitoring of 16 pavers, 13 roofers and 21 unexposed controls. Exposure of pavers and roofers was low in comparison with other industries where exposure to PAHs occurs, but higher than the control group. Significant correlations were observed between airborne PAH exposure indices and urinary 1-hydroxypyrene in the pavers only, and between mean sister chromatid exchange frequency and external PAH exposure expressed as the percentage of exposed subjects in individual groups. Exposure could be further reduced by appropriate control measures. (70014)

CIS 97-1987 Terpene exposure and respiratory effects among workers in Swedish joinery shops. Eriksson K.A., et al., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1997, Vol.23, No.2, p.114-120. Illus. 20 ref. (In English)

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A cross-sectional study of 38 workers was carried out in 4 joinery shops in Sweden to evaluate acute respiratory effects following exposure to terpenes, while processing Scotch pine. Personal exposure to terpenes ranged between 10 and 214mg/m³. No acute effects on forced vital capacity or forced expiratory volume during 1s were detected. Personal exposure to terpenes may thus exceed the present Swedish occupational exposure limit of 150mg/m³ during the winter season when workrooms air is commonly recirculated. The determination of metabolites of alpha-pinene (verbenols) in urine can be used as an index of exposure to fumes released during wood-treating processes. (69994)

CIS 97-1988 Mortality and cancer incidence among sawmill workers exposed to chlorophenate wood preservatives. Hertzman C., et al., American Journal of Public Health, Jan. 1997, Vol.87, No.1, p.71-79. 39 ref. (In English)

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A cohort study was conducted of 26,487 workers employed for at least one year between 1950 and 1985 in 11 chlorophenate-using and 3 non-using sawmills in Canada. Exposure was assessed by reconstructing industrial histories for each mill. Probabilistic record linkage to Canadian mortality and cancer registries found 4710 deaths between 1950 and 1990, and 1547 incident cases of cancer between 1969 and 1989. None of the cancers of interest had elevated mortality related to chlorophenate exposure. However non-Hodgkin's lymphoma incidence (n = 65) increased with increasing chlorophenate exposure hours. The results support the case for careful handling of chlorophenate at work. (70165)

CIS 97-1989 Hazards of powdered surgical gloves. Poole C.J.M., Lancet, 4 Oct. 1997, Vol.350, No.9083, p.973-974. 7 ref. (In English)

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This brief communication describes allergic reactions associated with the use of latex surgical gloves. Type I hypersensitivity to latex proteins is being increasingly reported among health-care workers; several fatal allergic reactions have been reported. Latex proteins have been shown to adhere to the starch powder often used to facilitate the donning of gloves, thereby creating a protein-polysaccharide complex which can act as a potent aeroallergen. It is recommended that the use of powdered gloves and gloves that are high in extractable proteins should be discontinued. (70152)

CIS 97-1990 Environmental and biological monitoring of occupational exposure to perchloroethylene in dry cleaning shops. (Italian: Il monitoraggio ambientale e biologico dell'esposizione occupazionale a percloroetilene nelle lavanderie a secco) Gobba E., et al., Medicina del lavoro, Jan.-Feb. 1997, Vol.88, No.1, p.24-36. Illus. 34 ref. (In Italian)

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Personal air sampling for perchloroethylene (PCE) (tetrachloroethylene) among 106 workers in 78 dry cleaning shops revealed that average exposure was about 30% of the current threshold limit value. However, exposure exceeded this limit in 12 workers. Measurement of urinary trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and urinary excretion of unmodified perchloroethylene (PCE-U) showed that PCE-U levels were correlated to exposure in both low and heavily exposed workers; levels of TCA were correlated only in heavily exposed workers. Urinary excretion of PCE-U appears to be a reliable indicator of exposure among these workers. (70244)

CIS 97-1991 Screening and surveillance of workers exposed to mineral dusts. Wagner G.R., World Health Organization, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1996. ix, 68p. Bibl.ref., ISBN 92-4-154498-8 (In English)

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This book presents different approaches of screening and surveillance programmes for workers exposed to mineral dusts, focusing on asbestos, crystalline silica and coal mine dust. The diseases associated with exposure to these dusts are reviewed, as are the diagnostic tests. Technical annexes contain examples of existing programmes in several countries and examine the use of questionnaires, lung spirometry and chest radiography. (70060)

CIS 97-1992 Asbestos-related diseases. Setting the national research agenda 1996 to 2006. Worksafe Australia, Worksafe Australia, GPO Box 58, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia, 1996. 68p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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Proceedings of a symposium on asbestos-related diseases held in Sydney, Australia, 11-12 June 1996. Papers cover: the importance of a national research agenda for asbestos-related diseases; health effects of asbestos exposure; national prevention programme in Finland; predicted future numbers of cases of asbestos-related disease in Australia; manufacture and use of asbestos products in Australia; social aspects of exposure; early diagnosis and patient care. (70109)

CIS 97-1993 Toxicity of sewage sludge - Presence of organic xenobiotic compounds. (Italian: La tossicità dei fanghi di depurazione, presenza di xenobiotici organici) Genevini P.L., Fondazione Lombardia per l'Ambiente, Foro Bonaparte, Milano, Italy, Dec. 1996. 294p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 88-8134-020-8 (In Italian)

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Sludge from sewage treatment may be used in agricultural fertilizing practices. Levels of organic compounds in sludge may often be rather high, but although classified as highly toxic occupational polluting agents, they are not covered by regulations in all European Union countries. The present compilation shows the levels of these pollutants in soil and water, along with data on biodegradation and uptake by vegetables and animals. (70114)

CIS 97-1994 Glyoxal (ethanedial). 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, 1998. xvi, 168p. Bibl.ref., ISBN 3-7776-0824-6 (In English)

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This report is a translation of a report finalized in February 1996. Main conclusions: glyoxal is a skin sensitizer in humans; there are reports of eczema among workers in contact with the substance; animal studies indicate that glyoxal is of low toxicity. (70156)

CIS 97-1995 Asthmagen? Critical assessments of the evidence for agents implicated in occupational asthma. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 94p. (loose-leaf binder). Bibl.ref. Price: GBP 25.00., ISBN 0-7176-1465-4 (In English)

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This document provides data on 29 substances considered to meet European Union criteria for classification as a respiratory sensitizer (a cause of asthma). Data on three further substances considered not to meet these criteria are also presented. Results of studies providing evidence of work-related asthma are summarized along with supporting data. It is intended that assessments of the asthmagenic potential of other industrial chemicals and substances of biological origin will be added in due course. (70190)

CIS 97-1996 Industry's perception and use of occupational exposure limits. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 173p. Price: GBP 49.50., ISBN 0-7176-1407-7 (In English)

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This report summarizes the findings of a survey of 1000 United Kingdom companies using hazardous chemicals. Information is presented on the chemicals used, whether risk assessment procedures were in place, the risk reduction methods used, the level of awareness of relevant legislation and occupational exposure limits (OELs), and their role in influencing the choice of risk reduction measures. The majority of firms had carried out some assessment of risk and had risk control measures in place. However, the understanding of OELs was very variable, indicating that they have limited direct influence on the behaviour of small firms. (70208)

CIS 97-1997 Applying environmental accounting to electroplating operations: An in-depth analysis. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pollution, Prevention and Toxics, Washington, DC 20460, USA, May 1997. 53p. 53 ref. (In English)

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This report presents the findings of an investigation into the application of environmental accounting practices in electroplating facilities. The research entailed on-site investigations and literature reviews. Environmental costs involved in electroplating operations are analyzed and issues to be considered in implementing environmental analysis in these operations are described. Many facilities are using environmental analysis without knowing or calling it that; most conventional costs associated with environmental management (wastewater treatment, hazardous waste disposal) are recognized and captured in new project or process evaluations. (70108)

CIS 97-1998 Remediation of contaminated land, occupational hygiene aspects on the safe selection and use of new soil clean-up techniques. McAlinden J.J., Health and Safety Executive, Directorate of Science and Technology, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Mar. 1996. v, 10p. 9 ref. (In English)

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This report describes clean-up techniques used in the decontamination of contaminated land and identifies associated health hazards. Soil clean-up processes examined include biological, chemical, physical, thermal, and stabilization/solidification systems. Potential routes of exposure for workers and members of the public are discussed. (70150)

CIS 97-1999 Occupational pesticide exposure among Kenyan agricultural workers: An epidemiological and public health perspective. Ohayo-Mitoko G.J.A., Agricultural University, Wageningen, Netherlands, 1997. xi, 254p. Illus. 203 ref., ISBN 90-5485-774-9 (In English)

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This thesis provides an overview of pesticide use and management in Kenya and presents the results of a series of studies concerning: acetylcholinesterase inhibition among pesticide-exposed workers; identification of the determinants of pesticide exposure; self-reported symptoms; patterns of pesticide handling and practices of agricultural workers; and knowledge and activities of health-care workers in the diagnosis and management of pesticide poisoning. Recommendations for health promotion interventions are put forward. Summaries in Dutch and Swahili. (70151)

CIS 97-2000 The working environment in gluing operations. Appropriate gluing techniques and a good working environment. Principles and practical examples. (Swedish: Arbetsmiljö vid limning. Lämplig limteknik och god arbetsmiljö. Principer och praktiska exempel) Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 103 64 Stockholm, Sweden, 1993. 250p. Illus., ISBN 91-7522-360-0 (In Swedish)

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This manual can be used when evaluating workplaces for gluing, choosing gluing techniques and choosing preventive measures. With its help, correct gluing techniques can be chosen, occupational and environmental hazards prevented and better manufacturing methods used with higher quality and better economy. Contents: a table for choosing the safest glue; a specification of requirements which help the constructor choose a glue with specific technical requirements; a checklist with comments and explanations how to prevent occupational accidents; special measures when using glue based on acrylate, polyurethane or epoxy and description of the health hazards associated with their use; a table for choosing gloves; construction of joints; preparation before gluing; preparing glues with two components; application techniques; testing and quality assurance. (70224)

CIS 97-2001 Guidelines of the Italian CCTN for the classification of some effects of chemical substances. Mucci N., Camoni I., eds., Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy, 1996. 23p. 6 ref. Index. (In English)

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These guidelines, issued by the Italian National Advisory Toxicological Committee (CCTN), provide definitions of the categories and criteria for the classification of chemical substances based on evidence of their potential carcinogenic, mutagenic and reproductive effects. Approximately 300 chemical substances evaluated by the Committee are listed along with their classification. (70085)

CIS 97-2002 Opinions expressed by the Italian National Advisory Toxicological Committee on some active ingredients of pesticides. (Italian: Pareri espressi dalla Commissione Consultiva Tossicologica Nazionale su alcuni principi attivi di presidi sanitari) Camoni I., ed., Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy, 1996. 142p. Index. (In English, Italian)

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This report presents toxicity evaluations of 30 active ingredients in pesticides. Information is provided on carcinogenic and mutagenic effects and an overall classification is derived. Substances covered: acephate (orthene), acifluorfen, alachlor (lasso), amitraz, asulam, atrazine, bromoxynil, captan, chlorothalonil (2,4,5,6-tetrachloroisophthalonitrile), clofentezine, cypermethrin, dichlobenil (2,6-dichlorobenzonitrile), 1,3-dichlorpropene, dichlorvos, dicofol (kelthane), ethylenbisdithiocarbamates (mancozeb, maneb, metiram (polycarbazine), zineb), folpet, lindane, oxadixyl, oxyfluorfen, permethrin, phosethyl aluminium, phosphamidon, prochloraz, propoxur (arpocarb), terbutryn, tetrachlorvinphos. (70086)

CIS 97-2003 Opinion adopted by the Italian National Advisory Toxicological Committee on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. (Italian: Parero espresso dalla Commissione Consultiva Tossicologica Nazionale sugli idrocarburi policiclici aromatici) Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy, 1992. 69p. Index. Bibl.ref. (In English, Italian)

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This report evaluates potential exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in air, food and drinking water, and provides quantitative estimates of the risk of PAH-associated lung cancer and of carcinogenic risk associated with ingestion of benzo(a)pyrene. (70087)

CIS 97-2004 Guidelines for the safe handling of cytotoxic drugs and related waste. Occupational Safety and Health Service, Department of Labour, Wellington, New Zealand, May 1997. 28p. Illus. 12 ref., ISBN 0-477-03568-X (In English)

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This guide provides practical guidance on reducing the exposure of health care personnel to cytotoxic drugs during reconstitution, preparation, administration, and disposal of related waste. Contents: responsibilities of employers and employees; potential acute and chronic effects of exposure (irritation, possible long-term carcinogenic effects); procedures for handling cytotoxic drugs and related wastes (personal protective equipment, management of spills, labelling and packaging, information of personnel); health evaluation and monitoring. (70126)

CIS 97-2005 Respirable crystalline silica. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., Oct. 1997. 6p. 31 ref. Price: GBP 5.50., ISBN 0-7176-1432-8 (In English)

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This data sheet identifies the health hazards associated with exposure to crystalline silica and gives advice on prevention and control of exposure. Contents: occurrence and use; effects on health (silicosis, lung cancer); assessment of health risks; prevention of exposure by substitution; occupational exposure limits for respirable silica (0.3mg/m³ 8h TWA); engineering controls (dust control, plant enclosure, ventilation); personal protective equipment; maintenance and testing of control measures; monitoring exposure; health surveillance; information and training. (Revised version of CIS 92-588). (70171)

CIS 97-2006 Assessment of the health effects of trichloroethylene. Kaneko T., Wang P.Y., Sato A., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.301-324. 97 ref. (In English)

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Studies concerning the adverse health effects of trichloroethylene (TRI) are reviewed. Despite the limited epidemiologic evidence concerning the carcinogenicity of TRI, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified the substance as Group 2A (probably carcinogenic to humans). Experimental carcinogenicity studies indicate species differences between rats and mice. Acute exposure to TRI causes neurotoxic effects, while repeated exposure to high levels may result in neuro-, hepato- and/or nephrotoxicity. Main symptoms appearing after chronic exposure at low levels are neurological changes. A value of 25ppm (135mg/m³) is proposed as a reference value for work environments. (70191)

CIS 97-2007 Hydrogen cyanide in air. Health and Safety Executive, Occupational Medicine and Hygiene Laboratory, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Apr. 1990. 10p. 16 ref. Price: GBP 3.00., ISBN 0-7176-0355-5 (In English)

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This data sheet describes a method for the determination of hydrogen cyanide (hydrocyanic acid) in air with an ion-selective electrode. Hydrogen cyanide is collected by drawing the test atmosphere through a potassium hydroxide absorbing solution contained in a midget impinger. Heavy metal particulates are removed by filtration before entrapment of the hydrogen cyanide to prevent interference. The resulting sample solution is made up to volume with absorbing solution and free cyanide ions are determined with a cyanide ion-selective electrode. The method is suitable for both short-term and long-term exposure and for concentrations between 0.6mg HCN/m³ and 70mg HCN/m³ for 10l air samples. (70206)

CIS 97-2008 Valuing potential environmental liabilities for managerial decision-making: A review of available techniques. Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street SW, Washington D.C. 20460, USA, Dec. 1996. vi, 114p. 58 ref. (In English)

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This report reviews techniques available for estimating environmental liability costs in industry. Types of environmental liabilities are discussed (compliance with regulations, remediation obligations, fines and penalties, compensation, punitive damages, natural resource damages) and different valuation approaches are examined. Descriptive profiles of 24 specific tools are provided. (70148)

CIS 97-2009 Exposure to silica dust on continuous mining operations using flooded-bed scrubbers. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA, Aug. 1997. 2p. Illus. (In English)

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This data sheet describes the hazards associated with exposure to silica dust during mining operations and puts forward recommendations for an improved filter system for use in flooded-bed scrubbers (fan-powered dust collectors). Tests show that silica collection is improved with a 30-layer stainless steel wire mesh panel or a synthetic filter panel, and when higher air velocities are present in the scrubber. (70147)

CIS 97-2010 Federal environmental regulations affecting the electronics industry. Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street SW, Washington D.C. 20460, USA, Sep. 1995. v, 67p. (In English)

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This document provides information on U.S. environmental regulations potentially affecting the electronics industry. The requirements cover those chemicals identified as being in use in the semiconductor manufacturing, printed wiring board manufacturing, semiconductor packaging, and display manufacturing industries. (70149)

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CIS 97-2011 Fire precautions - What the non-specialist needs to know. Kirkwood A., Safety and Health Practitioner, Nov. 1997, Vol.15, No.11, p. 16-19. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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Guidance is given on basic workplace fire precautions and on the requirements of the United Kingdom's Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997. Methods of risk assessment are outlined along with fire detection systems, selection of appropriate fire extinguishers, general fire safety, and types of building requiring a fire certificate. Checklists for workplace structures, equipment, working practices and training are included. (70028)

CIS 97-2012 Safety of grain silos. (French: Sécurité des silos) Préventique-Sécurité, Sep.-Oct. 1997, No.35, p.6-28. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French)

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This issue contains several articles relating to the explosion of a grain silo in Blaye, France, in August 1977, causing 11 fatalities. Contents: editorial comment; interview with the chief of the regional fire-fighting unit; statements by the general manager of the grain company; analysis of possible causes; fire and explosion risks in the storage of agricultural products; preventive measures. (70307)

CIS 97-2013 Ignition probability of flammable gases. Spencer H., Rew P.J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 62p. Illus. 44 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-1431-X (In English)

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This report reviews the data and methodologies relevant to the ignition of flammable gases and puts forward a framework for calculating ignition probability. The model is based on modelling the distribution of likely ignition sources in urban, rural and industrial locations and calculating the ignition probability by considering whether a flammable gas cloud would reach these sources. The nature of ignition sources and the effects of release location and type are considered. A preliminary implementation of the model is presented. (70160)

CIS 97-2014 Use of the FORM/SORM (most likely failure point) method for uncertainty analysis. Mitchell B.H., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. vi, 106p. Illus. 20 ref. Price: GBP 32.50., ISBN 0-7176-1400-X (In English)

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This report describes the FORM/SORM method (the most likely failure point method) and examines its use in uncertainty analysis for a range of hazard consequence calculations: chlorine release (toxic dose); boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion (BLEVE) fireball (thermal dose); and BLEVE blast (overpressure). The method was used to calculate the probability that the estimate of hazard consequence, calculated on the basis of best-estimate data to be below an appropriate safety limit, would actually exceed that limit when data uncertainties were taken into account. Results are discussed and future applications are outlined. (70173)

CIS 97-2015 Derivation of fatality probability functions for occupants of buildings subject to blast loads - Phases 1,2,3 and 4. Jeffries R.M., et al., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 2 vols. vi, 200p. and ix, 324p. Illus. 101 ref. Price: GBP 72.00 and GBP 89.50., ISBN 0-7176-1434-4, ISBN 0-7176-1451-4 (In English)

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This report describes a method for estimating the fatality probability for occupants of different types of buildings subject to overpressures from vapour cloud explosions. Phase 1 included a literature review and preliminary development of the method. Phases 2 and 3 involved assessment of the sensitivity of the response of the structure (and thus the vulnerability of the occupants) to the loading and structural models. In Phase 4 the method was finalized and its use extended to derive fatality probability curves for a range of generic building types. (70174)

CIS 97-2016 Guidance on the repair and overhaul of apparatus intended for use in coal mines susceptible to firedamp. Health and Safety Commission, Deep Mined Coal Industry Advisory Committee, HSE Books, PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO 10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1996. vi, 60p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: GBP 12.00., ISBN 0-7176-1249-X (In English)

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Part 1 of this document provides guidance, principally of a technical nature, on the repair and overhaul of certified electrical apparatus designed for use in the potentially explosive atmospheres found in underground coal mines. Part 2 covers the repair and overhaul of diesel engines constructed for use in underground mines. Contents includes: statutory requirements; guidance for the manufacturer, user and repairer; additional guidance for apparatus according to the type of protection; reclamation of equipment parts. (70074)

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CIS 97-2017 Electrical incidents in Great Britain - Statistical summary. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iii, 91p. Illus. 23 ref. Price: GBP 25.00., ISBN 0-7176-1459-X (In English)

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This report provides a summary of statistics concerning workplace and other electrical incidents. Data on non-electrical incidents are included to allow comparisons of trends. Tables cover incidents related to the workplace, electricity supply equipment, fire and home and leisure and include data on site activity, equipment being used, employment status, age and skill level of the injured person, nature and location of injury, cause of the accident, enforcement proceedings and geographical area. Data cover the period from 1989 to 1996. (70188)

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CIS 97-2018 Cancer mortality among electricity utility workers in a Southeastern region Brazil. (Portuguese: Mortalidade por câncer em trabalhadores de companhia geradora de eletricidade do Estado de São Paulo, Brasil) Mattos I.E., Koifman S., Revista de saúde pública, 1996, Vol.30, No.6, p.564-575. 85 ref. (In Portuguese)

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Death certificates for electricity workers in São Paulo, Brazil, were analyzed. A slightly elevated all-sites cancer mortality was observed among these workers. Site-specific analysis showed a statistically significant increase in deaths due to laryngeal cancer. An excess of deaths was also seen for cancers of the buccal cavity/pharynx, prostate, bladder, brain and Hodgkin's disease, although the results lacked statistical significance. When analyzed by categories of estimated exposure to magnetic fields, an excess of deaths from bladder cancer, neoplasms of the brain and Hodgkin's disease was observed in the group with probably higher exposure to electromagnetic fields. (70056)

CIS 97-2019 A comparison of vibrotactile thresholds on the finger obtained with ISO type equipment and Japanese equipment. Maeda S., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.343-352. Illus. 28 ref. (In English)

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A vibrotactile threshold measurement system based on specifications of the International Organization for Standardization (draft standard ISO/CD 13091) was compared with a system currently used in Japan. Measurements were carried out on ten subjects under conditions similar to those outlined in the draft standard. Vibrotactile thresholds measured with the Japanese equipment were higher than those measured with the ISO equipment. In addition, the ISO equipment showed greater repeatability of results. Vibrotactile threshold determinations should take into account the experimental conditions (vibration frequency, area of contact, contact force, push force, and finger temperature). (70195)

CIS 97-2020 Noise exposure in a dry dock. (Italian: Esposizione al rumore in un bacino di carenaggio) Atzeri S., Vacca L., Medicina del lavoro, Jan.-Feb. 1997, Vol.88, No.1, p.37-48. Illus. 11 ref. (In Italian)

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Personal noise exposure was monitored in a small dry dock by fitting a microphone to each worker's helmet. Six different occupations were investigated: supervisors, welder/shipwrights, painters, electricians, woodworkers and unskilled workers. Measurements were repeated over 13 days and randomly distributed over four months. Daily noise exposure levels ranged from 15 to 30dBA for all tasks except those of the woodworkers. Statistical analysis of the data is described. Results may have an important role in defining sampling strategies for collecting noise exposure data for compliance and epidemiological purposes. (70245)

CIS 97-2021 Noise abatement in poultry slaughterhouses. (French: Abattage des volailles en sourdine) Richez J.P., Travail et sécurité, Nov. 1997, No.566, p.25-32. Illus. (In French)

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This article discusses the problem of noise in poultry slaughterhouses. Noise was long considered a secondary problem compared to issues raised by the strict regulations imposed by veterinary services. The article reports the experience of a manufacturer which was successful in reducing noise levels without compromising the bacteriological quality of the production unit, through the use of new materials with improved acoustic absorption properties for floors and walls, and by the isolation of equipment. (70292)

CIS 97-2022 Spotlight on work in winter. Safety Review, Sep. 1997, No.62, insert p.i-vii. 8 ref. (In English)

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Health hazards associated with outdoor work in winter are briefly reviewed. Environmental factors are discussed (temperature, wind chill factor) along with the effects of cold on the body (body heat regulation, impairment of manual and mental tasks). Specific cold injuries include frostbite, skin disorders, hypothermia and heart disease. Preventive measures include safe work practices, work breaks, provision of shelter and protective clothing. (70004)

CIS 97-2023 Physical factors in the indoor environment. Levin H., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.59-94. Illus. 78 ref. (In English)

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Physical factors in the non-industrial indoor environment that affect human health, comfort, productivity, and well-being are reviewed. Topics covered include: thermal comfort (environmental variables, activity and clothing levels, building design considerations, humidity); noise and vibration; light and other electromagnetic radiation (lighting design, health effects, ultraviolet radiation); combined effects and sick building syndrome. (70094)

CIS 97-2024 The environmental evaluation: Commercial and home. Samimi B.S., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.95-118. 92 ref. (In English)

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Techniques for the investigation of indoor air quality in domestic and commercial buildings are described. These include a preliminary inspection of the building, inspection and evaluation of the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system, collection and analysis of air samples, and application of indoor air quality standards. (70095)

CIS 97-2025 A systematic approach to indoor air quality for the building manager. Abend A.C., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.195-204. 11 ref. (In English)

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The components of a comprehensive indoor air quality management plan are outlined focusing on communications and response to complaints, building inspections, building operations and maintenance functions, and the incorporation of design and construction standards in new construction projects and major renovations. (70101)

CIS 97-2026 The legal aspects of indoor air and health. Slap A.J., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.205-215. 19 ref. (In English)

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Legal issues relating to the causation of building-related illness and sick-building syndrome are reviewed. Brief case studies are presented and legal requirements and reported legal actions are examined. (70102)

CIS 97-2027 Indoor air quality: Research needs. Teichman K.Y., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.217-227. 9 ref. (In English)

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Research needs in the field of indoor air quality are identified as: source characterization, exposure assessment, health effects, risk assessment, and solutions to prevent or mitigate pollution. Examples relating to radon exposure are cited to illustrate the factors to be considered in establishing indoor air quality policies. (70103)

CIS 97-2028 Exposure to 50-Hz electric field and incidence of leukemia, brain tumors, and other cancers among French electric utility workers. Guénel P., et al., American Journal of Epidemiology, 1996, Vol.144, No.12, p.1107-1121. 41 ref. (In English)

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The association between cancer and exposure to electric fields was investigated in a case-control study nested within a cohort of 170,000 workers employed at the French electric utility company Electricité de France (EDF) between 1978 and 1989. Exposure was assessed by personal monitoring of 850 EDF workers for a full work week. The analysis did not show any increased risk for leukaemia. For brain tumours (69 cases) there was some indication of a dose-response relation, although the risk did not increase uniformly with exposure. An unexpected association was also observed for colon cancer, but not for any other type of cancer. This study indicates that electric fields may have a specific effect on the risk of brain tumour. (70010)

CIS 97-2029 Melatonin and adrenocorticotropic hormone levels in video display unit workers during work and leisure. Arnetz B. B., Berg M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1108-1110. 12 ref. (In English)

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This report examines the assays of two hormones (melatonin and ACTH) in 47 office workers. Significant decreases were found in circulating melatonin, whereas for ACTH an increase of the blood levels occurred during video display unit work, but not on days off. A possible impact of the electromagnetic field of the video unit is discussed. Changes in ACTH levels might be explained by the work-induced mental stress. (70034)

CIS 97-2030 Risk management of electromagnetic compatibility with medical devices. Hocking B., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 1997, Vol.13, No.3, p.239-242. 11 ref. (In English)

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A risk management approach to the problem of electromagnetic interference with medical devices worn by workers is presented. Such devices include hearing aids, pacemakers, infusion pumps and wheelchair controls. Applications of radio-frequency radiation which may interfere with these devices include radio communications, mobile phones, TV and radio broadcasting, radar and navigation systems. Risk analysis and assessment issues are discussed and methods of risk control and communication are outlined. (70183)

CIS 97-2031 Residential and occupational exposure to sunlight and mortality from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: Composite (threefold) case-control study. Freedman D.M., Zahm S.H., Dosemeci M., British Medical Journal, May 1997, Vol.314, No.7092, p.1451-1455. 28 ref. (In English)

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Death certificate data for cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, melanoma and skin cancer and associations with potential residential and occupational exposure to sunlight were investigated. Unlike non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, both melanoma and skin cancer were positively associated with residential sunlight exposure. Skin cancer was also slightly positively associated with occupational sunlight exposure. Findings do not support the hypothesis that sunlight exposure contributes to the rising rates of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. (70249)

CIS 97-2032 Pulmonary barotrauma of a diver using an oxygen rebreathing diving apparatus. Tetzlaff K., et al., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 1996, Vol.67, No.12, p.1198-1200. Illus. 18 ref. (In English)

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A case is reported of a healthy male diver who developed clinical symptoms of mediastinal emphysema after performing a dive using a closed circuit oxygen rebreathing apparatus according to normal procedure. Spiral volumetric computed tomography of the chest four days after the incident detected a small subpleural emphysematous bulla next to the left ventricle. In any case of suspected pulmonary barotrauma, computed tomography of the thorax should be performed to evaluate future fitness to dive. (70082)

CIS 97-2033 Influence of local vibration on finger functions of forest workers. Tanaka M., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.337-342. 15 ref. (In English)

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Finger functions were investigated in 92 male forest workers. Subjects were classified into one of two groups: group A showed normal results or a slight disorder, group B showed disorder or illness. Working hours per day and hours using a chain saw were lower in group A than group B. Mean hand grip strength and finger skin temperatures were higher in group A. Mean values of vibration sensation and reaction times in the nail pressure test were lower in group A. Differences in right and left hand finger functions are discussed along with age effects. (70194)

CIS 97-2034 Risk factors for Raynaud's phenomenon among workers in poultry slaughterhouses and canning factories. Kaminski M., et al., International Journal of Epidemiology, Apr. 1997, Vol.26, No.2, p.371-380. 35 ref. (In English)

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A survey of 1474 workers in 17 poultry slaughterhouses and six canning factories was carried out to identify risk factors of Raynaud's phenomenon among workers exposed to cold but not to vibration. A high prevalence of symptoms of finger sensitivity to cold was observed. After controlling for non-occupational factors, the following working conditions appeared as risk factors: use of plastic gloves, less than four rest breaks, breaks in an unheated place, continual repetition of the same series of operations and exertion of the hand or arm. Changes in working conditions might reduce the risk of this disorder. (70247)

CIS 97-2035 The quiet workplace. Handbook for the acoustic design of industrial workplaces. (Swedish: Det tysta jobbet. Handbok för ljudprojektering av industriarbetsplatser) Elvhammar H., Arbetsmiljöfonden, Box 1122, 111 81 Stockholm, Sweden, 1994. 120p. Illus., ISBN 91-88530-19-1 (In Swedish)

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Taking the generation and propagation of noise into account when planning every investment, change of equipment, reparation or renovation as well as changes of premises and routines will enable an enterprise to reduce noise levels in a few years at no or little additional cost. Proper acoustic design in the construction of new buildings will also give very good results at no additional cost. All parties involved in the design of workplaces must participate in noise reduction planning since this involves all technical personnel (architects, construction workers, consultants, machine designers, purchasers etc.). Effective cooperation is the key to success. It is also important for workers to be consulted. This handbook also provides technical information such as how to calculate the noise doses in planned premises, determine the effects of different noise-reduction measures and choose products. (70221)

CIS 97-2036 Central index of dose information - Summary of statistics for 1996. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. iv, 27p. 15 ref. (In English)

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This annual report provides an analysis of radiation doses recorded for classified radiation workers in Great Britain in 1996. Tables show doses for each occupational category, variation with age and sex, and doses to specific organs and tissues. The mean dose averaged over all occupational categories was 0.8mSv; the highest mean dose (19.5mSv) was for underground miners in non-coal mines. 39% of classified persons received no dose, 84% received 1mSv or less, and 97% received 5mSv or less. (70172)

CIS 97-2037 Dosimetry of external beta rays for radiation protection. International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements, 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA, Jan. 1997. xii, 133p. Illus. 458 ref. Index. Price: USD 60.00., ISBN 0-913394-55-6 (In English)

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This report summarizes current techniques for measuring beta-ray doses, or for calculating them from known source distributions, and provides the physical data needed for such determination. Topics covered include the radiobiological basis of skin dosimetry, beta-ray sources and spectra, the physics of the interaction of electrons with matter, calculation of dose distributions, and measurement equipment and techniques. (70232)

CIS 97-2038 Safe working in a confined space. Occupational Safety and Health Service, Department of Labour, P.O. Box 3705, Wellington, New Zealand, no date. 11 data sheets, 17p. 3 ref. (In English)

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These 11 data sheets describe general safety measures for work in confined spaces along with specific precautions for construction work, shipbuilding and repair, fishing vessel maintenance, and entry into septic and sewage holding tanks. The requirements of Australian standard AS 2865:1995 Safe working in a confined space are outlined. (70180)

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CIS 97-2039 Evaluation of the slip resistance of six types of women's safety shoe using a newly developed testing machine. Stevenson M., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 1997, Vol.13, No.2, p.175-182. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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The slip resistance of six types of women's safety shoe was assessed using a machine designed by Worksafe Australia for measuring the coefficient of friction between shoes and floor samples under realistic slipping conditions. The machine and test procedures are described. Differences were found between the six tested safety shoes, but all gave reasonable performance. The machine gave consistent results under test conditions recommended by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). (70130)

CIS 97-2040 An epidemiological study of roadway fatalities related to farm vehicles: United States, 1988 to 1993. Gerberich S. G., Robertson L. S., Gibson R. W., Renier C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1135-1140. Illus. 23 ref. (In English)

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The investigation concerned the circumstances of the on-road, non-truck, farm-vehicle crash fatalities in the USA from 1988 to 1993. During that period, 444 farm-vehicle occupants together with 238 occupants of other vehicles or pedestrians were killed. Due particularly to the high proportion (21%) of overturns associated with these crashes, there is a need to further investigate the design characteristics of farm vehicles, especially factors related to their visibility and perception of their speed by other drivers or pedestrians. (70037)

CIS 97-2041 Occupational disease surveillance using disability insurance at an automotive stamping and assembly complex. Park R. M., Krebs J. M., Mirer F . E., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1111-1123. 16 ref. (In English)

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This study analyses occupational illnesses in motor vehicle assembly and stamping plants in the USA, employing data from sickness and accident insurance claims. Incidence rates were calculated. The following aspects are discussed: exposure assessments, short-tenure effects (i.e. high disability rates among employees with short assignments), gender effects, respiratory problems, heart diseases, musculoskeletal disabilities. (70035)

CIS 97-2042 Injuries to ambulance officers caused by patient handling tasks. Furber S., et al., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 1997, Vol.13, No.3, p.259-265. 16 ref. (In English)

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Analysis of workers' compensation data showed that during a two-year period the incidence rate for patient handling injuries to ambulance officers was 10.6% per year. Injury rates were highest in the 55 to 64 year age group and higher in females than in males. Over half of the injuries were associated with lifting patients, and 41% of injuries occurred when a mechanical aid was being used, most commonly a stretcher. The majority of injuries were to the back. The design of current lifting aids should be investigated and training courses on patient handling should be evaluated. (70184)

CIS 97-2043 Evaluation of the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 and Guidance - Volumes 1 and 2. Tesh K.M., et al., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 266p. 24 ref. Price: GBP 76.50., ISBN 0-7176-1453-0 (In English)

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This report presents the results of a survey carried out to evaluate the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (CIS 93-36) and to investigate employers' and employees' awareness and interpretation of them. Just over one-third of organizations had heard of the Regulations, with the self-employed and small organizations being least informed. The Regulations were generally perceived to be relevant and the requirements were well understood. There was a high level of implementation of the main provisions (avoidance, assessment and risk reduction). The Guidance to the Regulations (see CIS 93-664) was generally well received. Findings lend support to earlier findings that this legislation should be retained. (70167)

CIS 97-2044 Evaluation, selection and development of subsea cutting techniques. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. xv, 339p. Illus. 35 ref. Price: GBP 145.00., ISBN 0-7176-1417-4 (In English)

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This report presents the findings of a study to investigate the range of subsea cutting techniques suitable for removing offshore structures. Details of performance, limitations, and safety and reliability characteristics are provided along with recommendations concerning the most suitable techniques for a range of platform removal methods. The most effective methods include explosive cutting, abrasive water jet cutting, mechanical casing cutters, ultrathermic electrode cutting and pyromechanisms. (70177)

CIS 97-2045 Stress concentration factors for simple tubular joints: Assessment of existing and development of new parametric formulae. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. v, 102p. Illus. 26 ref. Price: GBP 55.00., ISBN 0-7176-1418-2 (In English)

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This report describes the development of a new set of parametric formulae for the determination of stress concentration factors (SCFs) for simple tubular joints. The equations were developed from a comprehensive database of measured SCFs for full-scale steel joints and acrylic models. The database was refined for assessment of commonly used SCF equations and the new formulae. (70178)

CIS 97-2046 Open-air, non-buried storage of hydrocarbons on construction sites: Domestic heating oil. (French: Stockage non enterré, en plein air, des hydrocarbures sur les chantiers du BTP: fioul-oil domestique (F.O.D)) Cahiers des Comités de prévention du bâtiment et des travaux publics, Sep.-Oct. 1997, Vol.5, No.302. 6p. Insert. Illus. (In French)

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This safety data sheet defines the technical and administrative requirements for the installation of temporary storage units for heating oil on construction sites. Contents: definition of the product, conditions of use, description of the main hazards relating to storage, types of storage containers authorised, administrative declaration form, regulations concerning the installation, bibliography. (70297)

CIS 97-2047 Practical memorandum: Folding presses. (French: Mémo-pratique - Presse plieuse) Sauvegarde des chantiers, Nov.-Dec. 1997, No.273. 2p. Insert. Illus. (In French)

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This information sheet is aimed at helping operators use folding presses safely. It contains a description of the machine, the hazards, preventive measures, conformity criteria and personal protective equipment. It refers to various French regulations and to some documents to be consulted. (70295)

CIS 97-2048 High temperature textile dyeing machines. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 1997. 8p. Illus. 13 ref. Price: GBP 5.50., ISBN 0-7176-1410-7 (In English)

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This guidance note identifies the hazards associated with high temperature textile dyeing machines and describes safety measures in relation to: design safeguards (integrity of the pressure vessel, door opening, interlocks, sampling devices); training of operators and safe systems of work; maintenance; regular examination of machinery; safety in the use of hydrogen peroxide. (70205)

CIS 97-2049 Fall protection for structural steel erection. (French: Protection contre les chutes pour le montage de l'acier de structure) Publications, Ministry of Labour, 400 University Avenue, 9th Floor, Toronto, Ontario M5A 1T7, Canada, 2nd ed., Aug. 1995. 18p. Illus. (In English, French)

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These guidelines describe practical measures for complying with legal requirements relating to fall protection during structural steel work. Different types of fall arrest and fall protection systems are described and advice is given on providing access, use of lifelines, design and installation of horizontal static lines, connecting structural steel, pre-engineered structures, and use of a crane to raise workers. (70186)

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CIS 97-2050 Hepatitis B and health-care workers. Eddleston A.L.W.F., Lancet, May 1997, Vol.349, No.9062, p.1339-1340. 6 ref. (In English)

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This brief communication looks at the transmission of hepatitis B virus from health care workers to patients. A recent report provides convincing evidence of transmission of the virus from a surgeon who was HBsAg positive but HBeAg negative. This suggests that modifications may be needed to existing guidelines which require no change in work practices for health care workers who are HBeAg negative. (70162)

CIS 97-2051 Biologic contaminants. Seltzer J.M., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.1-25. 32 ref. (In English)

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The sources and health effects of biological indoor air contaminants are reviewed. Conditions that promote biological contamination are described (ambient conditions, nutrient and microbial sources), as are the induction of human illness by biological contaminants, the evaluation of indoor environments, the interpretation of evaluation results, and methods of decontamination and prevention. (70091)

CIS 97-2052 Aerobiology of the indoor environment. Burge H.A., Occupational Medicine: State of the Art Reviews, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.10, No.1, p.27-40. Illus. 13 ref. (In English)

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The principles of aerobiology are reviewed. Topics covered include: aerosol science; biologic aspects of bioaerosols; the impact of airborne agents on human health; characteristics of the indoor aerosol and factors controlling patterns of indoor bioaerosol prevalence; and principles of representative monitoring (observational, bulk, and air sampling). (70092)

CIS 97-2053 Pasteurella aerogenes isolated from ulcers or wounds in humans with occupational exposure to pigs: A report of 7 Danish cases. Ejlertsen T., et al., Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases, 1996, Vol.28, No.6, p.567-570. 16 ref. (In English)

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A case report on seven Danish patients employed in livestock rearing who were bitten by pigs. Seven strains of Pasteurella aerogenes, rarely isolated from humans, were found in samples taken from the bite sites. Most bite wounds were located on the lower lateral part of the thigh. Abscess formation was the rule. Incision, drainage and antibiotic treatment were usually necessary. (70055)

CIS 97-2054 Incidence and risk factors of occupational blood exposure: A nation-wide survey among Danish doctors. Nelsing S., et al., European Journal of Epidemiology, Jan. 1997, Vol.13, No.1, p.1-8. Illus. 23 ref. (In English)

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In a nation-wide survey of hospital employed doctors in Denmark, the highest risk of occupational blood exposure was found in general surgery, neurosurgery, obstetrics-gynaecology and orthopaedic surgery. Only 35% of the respondents adhered to the basic principles of universal precautions and non-compliance was associated with a considerably increased risk of exposure, especially in non-surgical specialties. An unacceptably high incidence of occupational blood exposures was found among these doctors. (70020)

CIS 97-2055 Immune response to a new hepatitis B vaccine in healthcare workers who had not responded to standard vaccine: Randomized double blind dose-response study. Zuckerman J.N., et al., British Medical Journal, Feb. 1997, Vol.314, No.7077, p.329-333. 32 ref. (In English)

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The immunogenicity and reactogenicity of a new recombinant hepatitis B vaccine was evaluated in a cohort of 100 health care workers in whom currently licensed hepatitis B vaccines had not induced an immune response. 69 subjects seroconverted after a single dose of the new vaccine. After the booster vaccination, one other subject seroconverted, bringing the overall seroconversion rate to 70%. Factors affecting the immune response are discussed along with guidelines for immunization. (70077)

CIS 97-2056 Risk associated with occupational glass injury in bar staff with special consideration of hepatitis B infection. McLean W., et al., Occupational Medicine, Apr. 1997, Vol.47, No.3, p.147-150. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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In a survey of 91 bar staff workers, 74% reported hand injuries from broken glassware at work and 55% reported occupational skin contact with body fluids. Tests for the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen and core antibody (anti-HBc) showed that these workers were not at increased risk for this infection (anti-HBc prevalence 1.1%). However, this level of injury experience and exposure to body fluids represents a potential risk of infection. Hepatitis B immunization should be considered for these workers. (70124)

CIS 97-2057 Anonymous questionnaire survey on the knowledge and practices of hospital staff in infection control. Houang E.T.S., Hurley R., Journal of Hospital Infection, Apr. 1997, Vol.35, No.4, p.301-306. 7 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 19 hospital medical staff and 56 nursing staff revealed that nurses were significantly more familiar with all written policies and procedures of infection control than were physicians. They were also more likely to seek advice in situations where there were no written guidelines. Many hospital staff were uncertain about the practical details of written policies and procedures. Better ways to educate and motivate staff to comply with infection control measures are required. (70139)

CIS 97-2058 Infectious risks for health care workers. Clever L.H., LeGuyader Y., Annual Review of Public Health, 1995, Vol.16, p.141-164. 121 ref. (In English)

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Infectious risks for health care workers are reviewed. Topics covered: health care and associated workers at risk (including students, volunteers, family members); risk modification measures (training, protective equipment, safe disposal methods, immunization); legal requirements; precautions for specific infectious diseases (hepatitis, human immunodeficiency virus, rubella, mumps, measles, influenza, varicella, meningococcal disease, scabies, tuberculosis). (70168)

CIS 97-2059 Contamination incidents among doctors and midwives: Reasons for non-reporting and knowlege of risks. Burke S., Madan I., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.47, No.6, p.357-360. 19 ref. (In English)

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A 6-month retrospective study of 384 doctors and 293 midwives at two hospitals revealed that only 9% of doctors and 46% of midwives had reported the contamination incidents they had received. The doctors' main reason for non-reporting was that it was too time consuming; midwives felt that nothing could be done, although they were aware of the services offered by occupational health departments. 77% of doctors and 69% of midwives underestimated the risk of contracting hepatitis B virus from a needlestick injury. Strategies for improving knowledge of potential risks and methods for facilitating ease of reporting are outlined. (70238)

CIS 97-2060 Compliance with universal precautions among physicians. Michalsen A., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1997, Vol.39, No.2, p.130-137. 58 ref. (In English)

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This questionnaire survey on compliance with universal precautions against HIV infection by 322 physicians from 3 hospitals was conducted in the United States. Compliance measured through 11 items examined how often physicians followed specific recommended work practices. Compliance varied: it was very high for certain kinds of preventive measures (94% for glove use, 92% for disposal of sharps) and low for others (55% for wearing protective clothing, 56% for not recapping needles). Compliance with all items was very low (31-38%). Compliance was higher among physicians who were knowledgeable about universal precautions and who perceive an organizational commitment to safety. Compliance was low among physicians who were relatively old (>37years), who reported high levels of work stress and who perceived a conflict of interest between providing medical care and protecting themselves. (70065)

CIS 97-2061 Hospital nurses' occupational exposure to blood: Prospective, retrospective and institutional reports. Aiken L.H., Sloane D.M., Klocinski J.L., American Journal of Public Health, Jan. 1997, Vol.87, No.1, p.103-107. 23 ref. (In English)

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The risk of exposure by nurses to contaminated blood from injuries with needles and sharps were studied in medical units of 20 US hospitals in cities with a high incidence of AIDS. The rate of injuries was 0.8 per nurse-year. Factors associated with an increased number of injuries included the practice of recapping needles and working in temporary assignments. Injuries from needlesticks are rather common and do not occur at random. Increasing precautions, reducing reliance on temporary nursing personnel and other organizational changes may lower the odds of nurses being injured. (70069)

CIS 97-2062 Nurses' infection-control practice: Hand decontamination, the use of gloves and sharp instruments. Gould D., Wilson-Barnett J., Ream E., International Journal of Nursing Studies, Apr. 1996, Vol.33, No.2, p.143-160. 49 ref. (In English)

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A survey of 173 nurses in two teaching hospitals included observation of nurses' infection-control behaviour and questionnaires and interviews to determine their knowledge of the risks and available precautions. Hands were decontaminated after 28.78% of contacts with patients and after 49.85% of activities likely to result in heavy contamination. There was good use of gloves when available. The handling and disposal of sharps was commendable, although some unsafe incidents were observed. Performance was related to the workload and the availability of hand decontaminating agents. (70090)

CIS 97-2063 Actions to be undertaken by health workers in the event of an accident involving exposure to blood. (French: Conduite à tenir chez un professionnel de la santé en cas d'accident avec exposition au sang) Massip P., Médecine et travail, Dec. 1997, Vol.174, No.4, p.48-54. Illus. (In French)

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This article is aimed at health workers potentially exposed to HIV and includes preventive measures and the course of action to follow in the event of accidental exposure to blood. The importance of proper information and first aid, and the effectiveness of prompt chemo-prophylaxy in the event of accidental blood exposure are emphasised. Practical advice is given. (70310)

CIS 97-2064 Histoplasmosis - Protecting workers at risk. Lenhart S.W., et al., Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Sep. 1997. vi, 28p. 106 ref. (In English)

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This booklet describes the nature and causes of histoplasmosis, an infectious disease caused by inhaling spores of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. The fungus grows in soils, especially those enriched with bird or bat manure. Precautions should be taken by workers who may be in contact with contaminated soil or manure. Guidance is given on the selection of appropriate respirators for protection against inhalation exposure to airborne dust containing the fungus. Summary in Spanish. (70179)

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CIS 97-2065 Mechanised cleaning of young forest - The strain on the operator. Gellerstedt S., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Aug. 1997, Vol.20, No.2, p.137-143. Illus. 15 ref. (In English)

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This study is an ergonomic analysis of forestry operations by means of cleaning and spacing machines. It was conducted measuring the workload and assessing the difficulties and possible improvements in the efficiency of the operations. A low heart rate variability was found in the operators, indicating a high mental workload. The operation of the machine crane does not allow pauses in the trapezius muscles activity, as shown by electromyography. Neck and shoulder pain is also common. Productivity limitations associated with operators are emphasized, envisaging future modified machines or even autonomous robots to carry out the same work. (70047)

CIS 97-2066 Employee-rated job demands: Implications for prevention of occupational back injuries. Halpern M.N., Skovron M.L., Nordin M., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Aug. 1997, Vol.20, No.2, p.145-153. Illus. 24 ref. (In English)

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A job analysis based on worker ratings of back injuries was correlated with records of rates of these injuries for 25 jobs in a public transport company. Back injuries amounted to 14% of all lost-work injuries. Eight types of physical ability associated with high risk of back injury were identified: trunk strength, static strength, dynamic strength, explosive strength, stamina, extent flexibility, gross coordination and balance (equilibrium). Concentrating on a profile of these abilities will cut down considerably the effort in data collection and contribute to the establishment of job-specific back injury preventive programmes. (70048)

CIS 97-2067 Fatigue among Israeli industrial employees. Kristal-Boneh E., Froom P., Ribak J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1145-1150. Illus. 33 ref. (In English)

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In this cross-sectional study 3.785 employees of six industrial sectors were examined concerning the factors involving complaints of fatigue The results have shown that workers not performing sport activities at least once a week had an increased prevalence of severe fatigue. The same was observed in those subjects employed in non-temperature-controlled work stations. (70039)

CIS 97-2068 Daylight, artificial light and people in an office environment, overview of visual and biological responses. Begemann S.H.A., van den Beld G.J., Tenner A.D., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Sep. 1997, Vol.20, No.3, p.231-239. Illus. 9 ref. (In English)

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In a long-term study of the responses of office workers to daylight and artificial light, identical cell offices were equipped with a ceiling-based lighting system which workers could adjust as they wished. Preferred lighting levels were higher than current indoor lighting standards and corresponded to levels where biological stimulation can occur. Results for two occupants showed striking differences in lighting settings corresponding to individual circadian rhythms and performance. Lack of light may negatively influence alertness, performance and the degree of well-being. (70118)

CIS 97-2069 Incorporating ergonomics into the concurrent engineering of a new warehouse. Parker M., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Sep. 1997, Vol.20, No.3, p.251-257. 8 ref. (In English)

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The methodology used to integrate ergonomics into the concurrent engineering of a large warehouse is described. The project involved an ergonomic study of existing activities based on analysis of injuries and risk factors, determination of population characteristics, and development of ergonomic solutions using an ergonomic solution mapping technique. The role of the ergonomics engineer in the concurrent engineering team is highlighted. (70120)

CIS 97-2070 Shift work and risk factors for coronary heart disease in Japanese blue-collar workers: Serum lipids and anthropometric characteristics. Nakamura K., et al., Occupational Medicine, Apr. 1997, Vol.47, No.3, p.142-146. 40 ref. (In English)

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Serum lipid concentrations and anthropometric indices of 33 three-shift workers and 27 two-shift workers were compared with those of 239 day workers. The three-shift workers had higher blood cholesterol levels than other workers and they were also more obese than day workers. These findings held when lifestyle factors were taken into account. Three-shift workers were at higher risk of coronary heart disease than day workers. (70123)

CIS 97-2071 Ergonomic risk exposure and upper-extremity cumulative trauma disorders in a maquiladora medical devices manufacturing plant. Meservy D., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.39, No.8, p.767-773. 28 ref. (In English)

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Ergonomic evaluation of tasks at a medical devices manufacturing plant in Mexico revealed that all jobs involved one or more risk factors associated with the development of cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs). The prevalence of CTD was 28% based on questionnaire surveys and 17% based on physical examinations; 15% reported symptoms and showed symptoms on examination. CTD was reported more frequently in women than in men, and in subjects who had worked at the plant less that one year. Workforce turnover may have included some affected workers who left employment, thus reducing the apparent CTD rate in experienced workers. (70146)

CIS 97-2072 Sitting posture and neck and shoulder muscle activities at different screen height settings of the visual display terminal. Villanueva M.B.G., et al., Industrial Health, July 1997, Vol.35, No.3, p.330-336. Illus. 24 ref. (In English)

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Working posture and electromyographic activities of the neck and shoulder muscles were determined in ten video display terminal operators performing a mouse-driven interactive task at screen height settings of 80, 100 and 120cm. Changes in body positions were measured by video image and frame analysis. At greater screen heights, the neck became significantly more erect, and subjects assumed a more backward leaning trunk position. A more upright position of the neck may result in decreased load on the neck extensor muscles, as indicated by the strong correlation between neck flexion and neck extensor muscle activity. (70193)

CIS 97-2073 Influence of lift moment in determining MAWL. Davis K.G., et al., Human Factors, June 1997, Vol.39, No.2, p.312-322. Illus. 31 ref. (In English)

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Four lifting tasks were investigated to determine whether maximum acceptable weight of lift (MAWL) estimates were consistent with previously reported values when the MAWL was determined without visual feedback during the weight adjustment period. Results of tests on 12 subjects agreed with those of previous psychophysical studies when the distance of the load from the spine (moment arm) was taken into consideration, either by comparing the MAWLs with those of a large box, or by comparing load moments. Eliminating visual feedback during the adjustment periods did not alter the MAWLs from previous studies. (70213)

CIS 97-2074 XIIth symposium on night and shiftwork. Greenwood K.M., ed., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July/Sep. 1997, Vol.3, No.3, Suppl. p.S1-S87. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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Issue devoted to papers from a symposium on night and shiftwork held in Ledyard, Connecticut, USA, June 1995: shiftwork as a risk factor for depression; sleep quality of former night shift workers; shiftwork, age and health; shiftwork advantages as predictors of health; sleep and circadian rhythm characteristics as predictors of adjustment to shiftwork; hormonal secretion of nurses engaged in fast-rotating shift systems; effects on accidents of time into shift and of short breaks; shift-related differences in industrial injuries; unfavourable consequences of six-hour shiftwork; solvent exposure, shiftwork and sleep; effects of shift schedules on family and leisure; work/nonwork conflict and health in shiftwork; job strain in shift and daytime workers; regulations as prevention strategies for shiftwork problems. (70216)

CIS 97-2075 Sickness absence from back pain, psychosocial work characteristics and employment grade among office workers. Hemingway H., et al., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1997, Vol.23, No.2, p.121-129. Illus. 40 ref. (In English)

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The psychosocial work environment in relation to sickness absence due to back pain was studied among office workers. Questionnaire and sickness absence data were collected for 6,894 men and 3,414 women, aged 35 to 55 years at recruitment. The main outcome was that there was a strong negative correlation between absence from work due to back pain and employment grade, and the effects of psychosocial work characteristics (particularly "control") differed by grade and sex in magnitude and direction. The psychosocial work environment represents a potentially reversible cause of ill health. (69995)

CIS 97-2076 Physiological limits of exercise in full-body protective clothing. Pórszász J., et al., Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1997, Vol.3, No.3, p.242-257. Illus. 36 ref. (In English)

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Physiological changes during physical exertion in three types of full-body protective clothing with different weight and heat insulation characteristics were investigated. Physiological parameters were measured during physical exercise tests. Results indicated that use of this clothing can lead to extreme physiological strain during exercise. Limitations on exercise were imposed by the extra weight of the clothing and by heat strain caused by impeded heat dissipation mechanisms. The level, type and duration of work carried out by an individual should be closely regulated while working in full-body protective clothing under extreme conditions. (70024)

CIS 97-2077 Using outdoor exercise to decrease jet lag in airline crewmembers. Shiota M., Sudou M., Ohshima M., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 1996, Vol.67, No.12, p.1155-1160. Illus. 26 ref. (In English)

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The effects of outdoor exercise on urinary excretion of the 17-hydroxycorticosteroids (17-OHCS), catecholamine rhythm, and sleep-wake patterns in cockpit crew members were studied before, during and after jet travel involving an 8h time difference. Results indicated a phase-advance shift of the circadian rhythm of 17-OHCS excretion in urine and of sleep-wake patterns on day 4 in the exercise group compared to a control group, suggesting that outdoor exercise has some effects in hastening resynchronization to a new time zone. (70081)

CIS 97-2078 RSI revisited: Evidence for psychological and physiological differences from an age, sex and occupation matched control group. Helme R.D., LeVasseur S.A., Gibson S.J., Australian and New Zealand Journal of Medicine, 1992, Vol.22, p.23-29. Illus. 33 ref. (In English)

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Psychological characteristics and capsaicin-induced flare responses were examined in subjects suffering from repetitive strain injury (RSI) and in pain-free controls. The neurogenic flare response was assessed on the forearms and shoulder. Compared to the controls, the RSI subjects displayed higher levels of mood disturbance and some abnormal patterns of illness behaviour. A reduction in flare size was observed in the pain-affected limb of RSI subjects, but an increased response occurred in sites reported as unaffected by clinical pain. Findings provide objective evidence of altered nociceptor mechanisms in RSI subjects and are consistent with the view that this chronic pain syndrome involves somatic pathophysiology. (70110)

CIS 97-2079 Electromyography (EMG) - Methodology and application in occupational health. Aarås A., Ro O., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Sep. 1997, Vol.20, No.3, p.207-214. Illus. 16 ref. (In English)

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Evaluation of the use of electromyography (EMG) to measure load on the trapezius muscle in a group of 12 visual display terminal operators showed that the method was reliable in terms of reproducibility and stability. Studies on the relationship between trapezius load and the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders showed that both the static and median load and the number of periods per minute when the load was below 1% of the maximum voluntary contraction were related to the incidence of neck and shoulder disorders. Measurements of trapezius EMG may predict musculoskeletal illness in the upper part of the body. (70115)

CIS 97-2080 Low back load in two car driver seats. Udo H., et al., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Sep. 1997, Vol.20, No.3, p.215-222. Illus. 23 ref. (In English)

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Low back load was evaluated in a long-term driving experiment involving a standard car seat and a new design featuring a lumbar support, side supports, a combination of firm and soft seating, an adjustable headrest and a rubber mat under the seat. Low back load was estimated by lumbar examination and subjective evaluation of low back pain. Use of the new seat resulted in improvements in subjective evaluation after 3 months, and improvements in the kinetic pain score after 6 months. The new seat design seems to reduce low back load. (70116)

CIS 97-2081 Noise, feedback training and visual inspection performance. Gramopadhye A.K., Wilson K., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Sep. 1997, Vol.20, No.3, p.223-230. Illus. 27 ref. (In English)

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Performance feedback training is known to have positive effects on the performance of visual inspection tasks in industry. However, when this training is conducted in a controlled environment, the improvements attributed to training may not transfer to an industrial setting because of environmental factors such as noise. The transfer effects of feedback training and practice provided under various conditions of noise were investigated. The major finding was that training and practice under appropriate noise conditions is critical for sensitivity improvements in industrial inspection tasks. (70117)

CIS 97-2082 Circadian rhythms of arterial pressure, heart rate and oral temperature in truck drivers. Stoynev A.G., Minkova N.K., Occupational Medicine, Apr. 1997, Vol.47, No.3, p.151-154. 18 ref. (In English)

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Circadian rhythms of blood pressure, heart rate and oral temperature were studied in 12 truck drivers and a control group of 12 air traffic controllers. Measurements were taken at regular intervals during 24h periods. During the outward journey, significant acrophase advances were observed for the circadian rhythms of blood pressure and heart rate in the truck drivers compared with the control group. During the homeward journey, these differences were combined with an acrophase delay of the circadian rhythm of oral temperature. Extended working time combined with greater load during a long trip may generate an internal desynchronization of circadian rhythms in long-distance truck drivers. (70125)

CIS 97-2083 Screening for carpal tunnel syndrome in the workplace: An analysis of portable nerve conduction devices. Pransky G., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.39, No.8, p.727-733. 28 ref. (In English)

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Formal electrodiagnostic studies were carried out on 32 subjects without carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and results were compared with those obtained from two portable devices: the Neurosentinel® and the NervePace electroneurometer, used for sensory and motor testing respectively. Results indicate that the portable devices are unlikely to identify individuals with CTS or to detect changes over time that are not accompanied by symptoms or signs. They are probably most useful for cross-sectional or longitudinal studies of groups, but care should be taken when using them for pre-placement or surveillance tests of individual workers. (70144)

CIS 97-2084 The influence of personal variables on work-related low-back disorders and implications for future research. Dempsey P.G., Burdorf A., Webster B.S., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.39, No.8, p.748-759. 99 ref. (In English)

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Studies concerning the influence of personal variables on work-related low-back disorders are reviewed. It is suggested that age, sex, injury history, relative strength, smoking and psychosocial variables should be studied further, and that height, weight, pathologies, genetic factors, maximum oxygen uptake and absolute strength are unlikely to produce significant effects in industrial populations. (70145)

CIS 97-2085 Commuting, overtime and cardiac autonomic activity in Tokyo. Kageyama T., et al., Lancet, 30 Aug. 1997, Vol.350, No.9078, p.639. 4 ref. (In English)

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The relation between short-term heart rate variability (HRV) and commuting time or overtime was investigated in 223 Japanese white-collar workers. Chronic stress or fatigue resulting from long commuting time or extensive overtime appeared to cause a sympathodominant state in these individuals. Although these shifts in HRV are not direct indicators of disease, they may induce cardiovascular abnormalities related to the onset of heart disease. (70154)

CIS 97-2086 Self reported symptoms in the neck and upper limbs in nurses. Lusted M.J., et al., Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1996, Vol.27, No.6, p.381-387. Illus. 25 ref. (In English)

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Musculoskeletal symptoms were investigated in 30 nurses in two units of a residential care centre. A questionnaire survey showed that neck and upper limb symptoms were experienced as often as low back symptoms and were more likely to have prevented nurses from doing their work. Analysis of compensation data indicated that back injuries were more common than neck and upper limb problems, suggesting that these data do not accurately reflect the type or incidence of symptoms experienced. Differences in symptoms between the two units studied were attributed to work organizational factors related to patient handling. (70161)

CIS 97-2087 Acutely shifting the sleep-wake cycle: Nighttime sleepiness after diurnal administration of temazepam or placebo. Porcù S., et al., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.68, No.8, p.688-694. Illus. 33 ref. (In English)

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In a laboratory simulation of an acute shift of the sleep-wake cycle, sleepiness was measured in 10 subjects during the night after a daytime administration of a benzodiazepine hypnotic temazepam or a placebo to obtain a prophylactic sleep. Temazepam proved to be an effective diurnal hypnotic, increasing sleep duration and not impairing sleep quality. No significant residual effects, such as increased sleepiness during the night, were detected. The drug may be used to induce sleep at unusual hours and thus avoid a dangerous increase of sleepiness during irregular operations. (70203)

CIS 97-2088 Relationship between age and susceptibility to altitude decompression sickness. Sulaiman Z.M., Pilmanis A.A., O'Connor R.B., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.68, No.8, p.695-698. Illus. 15 ref. (In English)

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Data on 1,299 subject flight exposures in altitude chambers conducted during 1983-1994 were examined. Ages of subjects ranged 18-48 years. There was a trend towards increased susceptibility to decompression sickness with increasing age, with a particularly strong trend for individuals over 42 years of age. (70204)

CIS 97-2089 The science of occupational musculoskeletal disorders. Rosenstock L., National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Publications Dissemination, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, May 1997. 13p. (In English)

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This report discusses the magnitude and scope of the problem of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and presents a review of the scientific literature on the relationships between work factors and these disorders. Topics covered include low back disorders, disorders of the neck and shoulders, disorders of the hand, wrist and elbow, length and intensity of exposure and psychological factors. Preventive methods are outlined and future research needs are identified. (70111)

CIS 97-2090 Effects of rapid time-zone transition on flight attendants' circadian rhythms and sleep. Suvanto S., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Publication Office, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 1995. 120p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 951-802-105-8 (In English)

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Results of a study of the physiological effects of rapid time-zone transitions among 40 women flight attendants. Effects are discussed in terms of the circadian rhythm of cognitive performance, subjective alertness, body temperature, excretion of melatonin and cortisol, prediction of circadian adaptation to rapid-time-zone transitions, effects on sleep length and quality, and psychophysiological effects. In connection with 4-day round trip flights over 10 time-zones, flight attendants should have at least 5 days off after the return flight in order to allow sufficient recuperation of their circadian rhythms and sleep-wakefulness. The texts of five original papers on which the report is based are included. (70138)

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CIS 97-2091 Two-crew operations: Stress and fatigue during long-haul night flights. Samel A., et al., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1997, Vol.68, No.8, p.679-687. Illus. 28 ref. (In English)

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Long-haul flight operations involving two pilots and a flight roster with two consecutive night flights and a short layover were investigated. Measurements of sleep, taskload, fatigue and stress were carried out before, during and after a series of 22 flights. Results indicated a loss of sleep and increased levels of fatigue. Motor activity, brainwave activity and heart rate indicated drowsiness and a low state of vigilance and alertness during both night flights. This type of duty roster may impose excessive demands on mental and physiological capacity. (70202)

CIS 97-2092 Senior house officers' work related stressors, psychological distress, and confidence in performing clinical tasks in accident and emergency: A questionnaire study. Williams S., et al., British Medical Journal, Mar. 1997, Vol.314, p.713-718. Illus. 19 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 171 newly appointed accident and emergency senior house officers from 27 hospitals in the United Kingdom showed that psychological distress was linked to confidence in performing a range of clinical and practical activities. Factors identified as causing stress during consultations included difficulties with communication, certain clinical presentations, and organizational factors (particularly workload). Results support the need to monitor and build confidence in these workers and to address work-related stressors. (70106)

CIS 97-2093 Occupational burnout, tolerance for stress, and coping among nurses in rehabilitation units. Elliott T.R., et al., Rehabilitation Psychology, 1996, Vol.41, No.4, p.267-284. 52 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire survey of 98 nurses showed that confidence in one's ability to handle problems and perceived tolerance were predictive of lower burnout scores, regardless of time spent on the job. Of the coping variables studied, emotion-focused coping was associated with higher burnout scores. Further investigation revealed that some coping efforts (taking time off work, confronting a supervisor) could be construed as symptoms of burnout. Implications for current notions of burnout and psychosocial interventions are discussed. (70250)

CIS 97-2094 Place of work, communities and municipalities. Ritson B., Addiction, Mar. 1997, Vol.92, Sup. No.1, p.127-132. 15 ref. (In English)

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The potential for community and municipal action combating alcoholism was the subject of a publication in the series associated with the WHO European Alcohol Action Plan. The work-place was taken as a significant microcosm, where healthy company policy to provide early help and support to individuals with alcohol-related problems was particularly beneficial. (69999)

CIS 97-2095 Mental strain and physical symptoms among employees in modern offices. Arnetz B.B., Berg M., Arnetz J., Archives of Environmental Health, Jan.-Feb. 1997, Vol.52, No.1, p.63-67. 19 ref. (In English)

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A questionnaire assessed both physical and psychosocial work environments and personal health in 133 Swedish office employees. Environmental factors most often associated with poor work environments were considered. The major indoor air pollutants were emission products from traffic and 1,1,1-trichloroethane from correction fluid. The results point to the importance of looking at both the psychosocial and physical environments when health complaints arise in modern offices. (70006)

CIS 97-2096 Associations between self-rated psychosocial work conditions and musculoskeletal symptoms and signs. Toomingas A., et al., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Apr. 1997, Vol.23, No.2, p.130-139. Illus. 41 ref. (In English)

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In a cross-sectional study of 358 men and women in various occupations, the statistical association between psychosocial factors and musculoskeletal disorders was analyzed. Perceived poor psychosocial work conditions were more strongly associated with signs of muscular (soft tissue) tenderness than with signs of tenderness in the joints, tendons or in nerve compression tests. Decision latitude at work showed few associations with musculoskeletal disorders. (69996)

CIS 97-2097 Predicting factors for absenteeism in patients with major depressive disorders. Souêtre E., Lozet H., Cimarosti I., European Journal of Epidemiology, Jan. 1997, Vol.13, p.87-93. Illus. 34 ref. (In English)

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Predicting factors for absenteeism were investigated in 345 patients diagnosed with major depressive disorders. One group of patients was treated with antidepressants for at least one week, and a second group had not received antidepressants for at least one month. Sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic data were collected. The rate of absenteeism was greater in the non-treated group than in the treated group. For all patients, the strongest predictors of absenteeism from work were symptom severity followed by past history of depression and of absenteeism. (70018)

CIS 97-2098 Validation of human reliability assessment techniques: Part 1 - Validation issues. Part 2 - Validation results. Kirwan B., Safety Science, Oct. 1997, Vol.27, No.1, p.25-75. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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Nine human reliability assessment (HRA) techniques that have been the subject of a number of validations using various criteria are described. A common set of criteria with which to validate these techniques is derived. Validation exercises are also classified in terms of the quality of the data and the degree of experimental control adopted. These criteria and classifications are then used to evaluate 22 validation and verification studies. Results lend support to HRA and identify techniques which appear to perform well within certain confines. (70027)

CIS 97-2099 Occupational factors of anxiety and depressive disorders in the French national electricity and gas company. Chevalier A., Bonenfant S., Picot M. C., Luce D., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 1996, Vol.38, No.11, p.1098-1107. Illus. 27 ref. (In English)

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This report of a case control study on a cohort of 483 employees of the French National Company producing electricity and gas suggests that certain occupational events, such as changes in work content or organization may cause or precipitate anxiety and/or depressive disorders. The study was conducted with appropriate questionnaires and diagnostic interviews. Supervisory staff tended to be more prone to developing these disorders, while workers in hazardous occupations appeared to be rather protected. (70033)

CIS 97-2100 Job strain and blood pressure in African Americans: The Pitt County Study. Curtis A.B., et al., American Journal of Public Health, Aug. 1997, Vol.87, No.8, p.1297-1302. 29 ref. (In English)

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The possible association of overstrain with elevated blood pressure levels was investigated in a prospective cohort study of hypertension among African Americans in North Carolina. Job strain was only weakly associated with blood pressure among men or women in this study. However, in men a statistical significant association was observed between one component of job strain (decision latitude), which was inversely associated with hypertension prevalence. For women high job demand tended to be associated with higher diastolic blood pressure. (70041)

CIS 97-2101 An attribution model of teachers' occupational stress and job satisfaction in a large educational system. McCormick J., Work and Stress, Jan.-Mar. 1997, Vol.11, No.1, p.17-32. 48 ref. (In English)

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Report of a study on the occupational stress and job satisfaction of teachers in the State of New South Wales, Australia, conducted through questionnaires distributed to 109 schools of various types. Stress attributable to student misbehaviour was associated with immature self-defence styles. Teachers satisfied with their occupation attributed greater responsibility for stress to self than did dissatisfied ones. (70044)

CIS 97-2102 Critical evaluation of hardiness theory: Gender differences, perception of life events, and neuroticism. Benishek L.A., Lopez F.G., Work and Stress, Jan.-Mar.1997, Vol.11, No.1, p.33-45. 77 ref. (In English)

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This study is a contribution towards obtaining a better understanding of "hardiness", a much criticized concept involving how one copes with life stress. Differences between men and women in the presence of hardiness and other parameters were assessed in a sample of adult employees (91 males and 85 females). A previous model of the hardiness paradigm was based on frequency scores of life stressors for men. This investigation shows that neuroticism has an important impact on life stress and health and that this influence is particularly important for women. (70045)

CIS 97-2103 Chinese version of the OSI: A validation study. Lu L., et al., Work and Stress, Jan.-Mar.1997, Vol.11, No.1, p.79-86. 19 ref. (In English)

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This article examines the Occupational Stress Indicator (OSI) in its Chinese version and its validity against self-reported data on absenteeism and accidents. It was based on 1,054 workers in manufacturing and power industries in Taiwan. The preliminary results of the study have shown that the Chinese OSI is a promising instrument for the measurement of stress and related factors in Taiwanese enterprises. (70046)

CIS 97-2104 Low job control and risk of coronary heart disease in Whitehall II (prospective cohort) study. Bosma H., et al., British Medical Journal, Feb. 1997, Vol.314, p.558-565. 34 ref. (In English)

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This prospective cohort study provided information on psychosocial factors of the work environment and coronary heart disease. Mean length of follow-up was 5.3 years. 10,308 civil servants aged 35-55 - 6,895 men (67%) and 3,413 women (33%) - were studied. Subjects with low job control, either self-reported or independently assessed, had a higher risk of newly reported coronary heart disease during follow up. The cumulative effect of low job control assessed on two occasions indicates that giving employees more variety in tasks and a stronger say in decisions about work may decrease the risk of coronary heart disease. (70057)

CIS 97-2105 Interaction of workplace demands and cardiovascular reactivity in progression of carotid atherosclerosis: Population based study. Everson S.A., et al., British Medical Journal, Feb. 1997, Vol.314, p.553-558. 25 ref. (In English)

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This follow up study considered unestablished as well as traditional risk factors for carotid atherosclerosis, ischaemic heart disease, and other outcomes in 591 Finnish men, aged 42-60, who were fully employed at baseline and had complete data on the measures of carotid atherosclerosis, job demands, blood pressure reactivity and covariates. Changes were observed in ultrasonographically assessed intima-media thickness of the common carotid arteries. Significant interactions between workplace demands and stress induced reactivity were observed. Men with large changes in systolic blood pressure and with high job demands had 10-40% greater progression of mean and maximum intima-media thickness and plaque height than men who were less reactive and had fewer job demands. Men who showed stress-induced blood pressure reactivity and who reported high job demands experienced the greatest atherosclerotic progression. (70058)

CIS 97-2106 Unemployment and health: The quality of social support among residents in the Trent region of England. Roberts H., et al., Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, Feb. 1997, Vol.51, No.1, p.41-45. 35 ref. (In English)

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In a lifestyle survey of 6,987 economically active individuals, of whom 9.9% were unemployed, the unemployed reported poorer quality of social support than employed persons on the three key elements examined: practical support, help with solving problems, and emotional support. Unemployment and lack of social support had independent and deleterious effects on perceptions of general health and mental health. This relationship between unemployment and poorer quality of social support may help to explain some of the increased morbidity and mortality experienced by this group, especially in relation to mental health. (70088)

CIS 97-2107 Incidence, risk factors and prevention strategies for work-related assault injuries: A review of what is known, what needs to be known, and countermeasures for intervention. Kraus J. F., Blander B., McArthur D.L., Annual Review of Public Health, 1995, Vol.16, p.355-379. Illus. 50 ref. (In English)

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Epidemiological data on violence-related injury in the workplace are reviewed. Data on the incidence of homicide and non-fatal work-related assault injuries are presented and risk factors and occupations at risk are identified. Highest rates for homicide are found among older workers, those employed in the retail trades, public administration or transport, those employed as sales personnel, taxi drivers, police officers, security guards or in petrol stations or hotels. The most common incident is homicide during the course of a robbery. Further research on risk assessment and identification of situations amenable to intervention is required. (70122)

CIS 97-2108 Violence in the workplaces in Finland. Salminen S., Journal of Safety Research, Fall 1997, Vol.28, No.3, p.123-131. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)

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An interview survey of 13,762 individuals in Finland in 1988 revealed that 394 had been victims of violence in the workplace during the previous year (40.6 victims per 1,000 workers). The rate of occupational violence was almost identical for males and females. The most hazardous occupations were prison guard, police officer and mental health nurse. A typical assailant was an unaccompanied man under the influence of alcohol. (70211)

CIS 97-2109 Alcohol in the workplace: Results of an empirical study. Davies J.B., et al., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. xxii, 179p. Illus. 24 ref. Price: GBP 57.00., ISBN 0-7176-1445-X (In English)

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This report presents the results of a survey of alcohol consumption among employees in a sample of 45 firms in Great Britain. Results are discussed in relation to drinking behaviour, effects of alcohol on work performance, sickness and absence due to alcohol, comparison between higher- and lower-drinking companies, alcohol-related attitudes, workplace culture and alcohol policies. Firms differed markedly in drinking cultures and other drinking-related variables. Alcohol policies need to take into account differences among firms in terms of workforce culture, attitudes and the nature of the work being carried out. (70175)

CIS 97-2110 Review of workplace-related violence. Standing H., Nicolini D., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1997. 69p. 77 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-1401-8 (In English)

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This report reviews the current state of knowledge on work-related violence. Topics covered include: an analysis of the scale, trends and severity of incidents in the United Kingdom and their potential costs to employers; a reconsideration of a risk assessment and prevention framework developed by Poyner and Warne in the mid-1980s; and an examination of the feasibility of producing case studies of good practice suitable for small and medium-sized businesses. A new framework for understanding work-related volence, based on a shift from an individual to an organization centred perspective, is proposed. (70207)

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