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ILO-CIS Bulletin 2001/06CIS 01-1571 --- CIS 01-1870Laws, regulations, directivesCIS 01-1571 Labour Protection Law [Latvia]. (Latvian: Darba aizsardzības likums) Latvijas Republikas Saeimas un Ministru Kabineta Ziņotājs, 2001, No.15, p.241-251. English translation (14p.) available from CIS. (In English, Latvian) Internet: Contents of this new framework law on occupational safety and health (effective: 1 Jan. 2002): definitions; scope (all fields of employment unless specified otherwise by other laws); general principles of labour protection; obligations and rights of employers; obligations and rights of employees, their elected OSH representatives and of OSH committees; role of the State and of local governments in the field of labour protection; supervision, control and liability. The 1993 Law on Labour Protection, and many OSH regulations introduced 1994-2001 (such as those abstracted as CIS 00-904 on work equipment and CIS 00-905 on individual protection) are repealed. (77844)
CIS 01-1572 Decree-Law creating a Programme for the Adaptation of Occupational Safety, Hygiene and Health Services, and defining the corresponding legal framework [Portugal]. (Portuguese: Decreto-Lei n.°29/2002 - Cria o Programa de Adaptação dos Serviços de Segurança, Higiene e Saúde no Trabalho ... e define o respectivo regime jurídico) Diário da República, 14 Feb. 2002, Serie I-A, No.38, p.1202-1209. (In Portuguese) Internet: This Decree-Law (effective 1 March 2002) establishes a national programme on OSH, as required by Decree-Law No.26/94 (see CIS 97-1061), as modified by several legislative texts since. Contents: purpose; means (working through enterprises; financial support); contracts for the adaptation of OSH services within enterprises; sub-programmes for the support of investment in OSH services, of training programmes, and of the creation of OSH posts. (77847)
CIS 01-1573 Order No.692 of 13 Dec. 2001 of the Council of Ministers concerning occupational safety and health measures [Albania]. (Albanian: Vendim Nr. 692, datë 13.12.2001 - Për masat e veçanta të sigurimit dhe mbrojtjes së shëndetit në punë) Fletorja Zyrtare e Republikës së Shqipërisë, 2001, No.61, p.1907-1908. (In Albanian) Internet: This Order prescribes the measures to be taken by employers in order to prevent occupational injuries and diseases among their workers. (77833)
CIS 01-1574 Order No.444/2001 of 15 Aug. 2001 concerning the conditions for the use of safety and health indications, symbols and signals in the workplace [Slovak Republic]. (Slovak: Nariadenie Vlády Slovenskej republiky z 15. Augusta 2001 o požiadavkách na používanie označenia. Symbolov a signálov na zaistenie bezpečnosti a ochrany zdravia pri práci) Zbierka zákonov slovenskej republiky, 9 Nov. 2001, No.181, p.4790-4805. Illus. (In Slovak) Internet: This Order specifies the standard safety and health signs and symbols to be used in workplaces. In annex: illustrated examples of safety signs and symbols, with explanations. (77840)
CIS 01-1575 Notification No.575 of 2001 concerning occupational safety and health personnel [Denmark]. (Danish: Bekendtgørelse om virksomhedernes sikkerheds- og sundhedsarbejde) Lovtidende A, 21 June 2001, Vol.102, No.575, p.3430-3438. (In Danish) Internet: This Notification includes provisions to implement Directive 89/391/EEC (see CIS 89-1401). It contains 44 sections dealing with: scope; safety organization in the workplace; employers' responsibilities; cooperation between the employer and workers over OSH matters; duties and functions; agreements and exemptions; administrative matters. Entry into force: 1 July 2001. Notification No.10 of 2000 on the same subject is repealed. (77841)
CIS 01-1576 Notification No.733 of 2001 respecting inspection fees in especially arduous work environments [Denmark]. (Danish: Bekendtgørelse om gebyr for tilsyn i arbejdsmiljømæssigt særligt belastede brancher) Lovtidende A, 20 Aug. 2001, Vol.127, No.733, p.4686-4687. (In Danish) Internet: This notification contains a list of particularly arduous occupations, as well as information on the special role of the Labour Inspectorate in connection with them. In annex: special fees to be paid in respect of inspections of workplaces where such occupations are practiced; detailed coding of such occupations. (77843)
CIS 01-1577 Royal Order of 16 Jan. 2002 modifying, in matters concerning insurance against occupational accidents, the provisions of the Royal Order of 22 Feb. 1991 on the general regulation of insurance companies, and of the Royal Order of 17 Nov. 1994 on the annual accounts of insurance companies [Belgium]. (Dutch: 16 Januari 2002 - Koninklijk besluit tot wijziging, wat de arbeidsongevallenverzekeringen betreft, van het koninklijk besluit van 22 februari 1991 houdende algemeen reglement betreffende de controle op de verzekeringsondernemingen en het koninklijk besluit van 17 november 1994 betreffende de jaarrekening van verzekeringsondernemingen; French: Arrêté royal du 16 janvier 2002 modifiant, en ce qui concerne les assurances contre les accidents du travail, l'arrêté royal du 22 février 1991 portant règlement général relatif au contrôle des entreprises d'assurances et l'arrêté royal du 17 novembre 1994 relatif aux comptes annuels des entreprises d'assurances [Belgique]) Moniteur belge - Belgisch Staatsblad, 14 Feb. 2002, Year 172, 2nd ed., No.48, p.5470-5477. (In Dutch, French) Internet: This Royal Order introduces several modifications into Belgian legislation on insurance against occupational accidents. It concerns financial matters, including methods for the calculation of compensation benefits. (77848)
CIS 01-1578 Official Mexican Standard - Buildings, locales, installations and working zones in workplaces: Safety and health conditions [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Edificios, locales, instalaciones y áreas en los centros de trabajo: Condiciones de seguridad e higiene [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 1999. 10p. Illus. 5 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This standard (effective: 13 Feb. 2000) specifies the basic safety and health requirements of workplaces. Contents: scope (all workplaces in Mexico); definitions; obligations of employers and workers; requirements of forced ventilation systems; safety requirements of working areas, roofs, walls, floors, staircases, ramps, ladders, elevated platforms, etc.; verification systems. Standards NOM-007-STPS-1993 (see CIS 95-1955) on in-plant railways and NOM-016-STPS-1993 on ventilation in workplaces are revoked. (77851)
CIS 01-1579 Act No.1383 of 2001 concerning occupational health services [Finland]. (Finnish: Työterveyshuoltolaki; Swedish: Lag om företagshälsovård) Finlands författningssamling - Suomen säädöskokoelma, 31 Dec. 2001, No.189, p.3795-3801. (In Finnish, Swedish) Internet: This Law became effective on 1 Jan. 2002. Contents: objectives (obligation of employer to provide occupational health services); scope; definitions; general principles of providing measures for the health and safety of workers; handling of information (duties of employer and employee to provide information; confidentality; rights of authorities regarding information); control and penalties. Act No.743/1978 on the same subject (see CIS 79-1166) is repealed. (77835)
CIS 01-1580 Act of 14 Dec. 2001 modifying 1988, 1989 and 1994 Acts concerning the protection of workers' health [Luxembourg]. (French: Loi du 14 déc. 2001 modifiant des lois de 1988, 1989 et 1994 concernant la protection de la santé des travailleurs [Luxembourg]) Mémorial - Journal officiel du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg, 27 Dec. 2001, A - No.149, p.3258-3262. (In French) Internet: This law (effective 1 Mar. 2002) modifies the Act of 17.6.1994 concerning occupational health services (CIS 98-1053), the Act of 20.5.1988 concerning the protection of workers against chemical, physical and biological agents (CIS 92-1404) and the Act of 24.5.1989 on labour contracts. The nature of occupational health services within the enterprise is re-defined, and a multi-sectoral occupational health service is created at the national level. (77839)
CIS 01-1581 Agreement No.004/2001 of 14 Sep. concerning the establishment of the Commission for the Development of Technical Standards for the Protection of Workers' Health [Colombia]. (Spanish: Acuerdo N° 004 de 2001, por medio del cual se crea la Comisión para el Desarrollo de las Normas Técnicas de Protección de la Salud de los Trabajadores [Colombia]) Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social - Consejo Nacional de Riesgos Profesionales, Diario Oficial (Colombia), 11 Dec. 2001, Year 137, No.44.643, p.40-41. (In Spanish) Internet: This legal instrument establishes a national commission charged with making a survey of existing official and non-official technical standards in the field of occupational health, and with the coordination of work leading to new standards. (77831)
CIS 01-1582 Order No.704 of 2 Sep. 1997 of the Council of Ministers concerning occupational safety and health services [Poland]. (Polish: Rozporządzenie Rady Ministrów z dnia 2 września 1997 r. w sprawie służby bezpieczeństwa i higieny pracy) Dziennik Ustaw, 18 Sep. 2002, No.109, p.3398-3400. Also, detailed English summary (2p.) with CIS. (In English, Polish) Internet: This Order requires employers with 100-600 workers to create an occupational safety and health (OSH) service, or to employ an OSH employee on a part-time basis. In enterprises with more than 600 workers there has to be a full-time OSH employee for every 600 workers. The Order outlines the scope of activity and the rights of OSH services, as well as the requirements for their personnel. Resolution No.14 (dated 18 Feb. 1992) of the Council of Ministers on the same subject is repealed. (77836)
CIS 01-1583 Regulation made under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997 - Amending O. Reg. 175/98 [Canada - Ontario]. Ontario Gazette - Gazette de l'Ontario, 15 Dec. 2001, Vol.134, No.50, p.981-983. (In English) Internet: This Regulation amends Ontario Regulation 175/98 by adding a new definition of "manufacturing", revoking items 11 and 12 of Schedule 2, and replacing Schedule 3 (Occupational Diseases) by a new one. (77849)
CIS 01-1584 Official Mexican Standard - Agricultural activities: Installations, equipment and tools - Safety conditions [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Actividades agrícolas: instalaciones, maquinaría, equipo y herramientas - Condiciones de seguridad [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 2000. 8p. 3 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all workplaces in Mexico where agricultural activities take place); definitions; obligations of employers and workers; safety conditions; safety procedures for equipment and tools; first aid; verification systems (77854)
CIS 01-1585 Notification No.642 of 2001 concerning genetic technology and the work environment [Denmark]. (Danish: Bekendtgørelse om genteknolgi og arbejdsmiljø) Lovtidende A, 28 June 2001, Vol.108, No.642, p.3826-3856. (In Danish) Internet: Contents of this notification implementing in Denmark the provisions of Directive 90/219/EEC (see CIS 93-1075), as modified by Directive 98/81/EC: scope (work with genetically modifed organisms (GMOs)); definitions; safety and health evaluations; classification of laboratories, laboratory environments and research and production facilities where GMOs are present; notification and approval of research and laboratory projects and of research and production facilities where GMOs are used; substitution; general safety requirements; exemptions; penalties. In annex: techniques for producing GMOs; notification and classification tables for laboratories, laboratory environments and installations where large-scale research and production involving GMOs takes place; evaluation of biological systems; guidelines for risk evaluation. Notification No.384 of 2000 (CIS 01-1295) on the same subject is repealed. (77842)
CIS 01-1586 Royal Order of 11 Mar. 2002 concerning the protection of the health and safety of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work [Belgium]. (Dutch: 11 maart 2002 - Koninklijk besluit betreffende de bescherming van de gezondheid en de veiligheid van de werknemers tegen de risico's van chemische agentia op het werk; French: 11 mars 2002 - Arrêté royal relatif à la protection de la santé et de la sécurité des travailleurs contre les risques liés à des agents chimiques sur le lieu de travail [Belgique]) Moniteur belge - Belgisch Staatsblad, 14 Mar. 2002, Year 172, No.88, p.10865-10932. (In Dutch, French) Internet: This Order is the transposition into Belgian legislation of Directive 98/24/EC (CIS 98-1094) on chemical risks at work. Contents: scope and definitions; hazard evaluation; general and specific prevention measures; what to do after an accident, an incident or an emergency; information and training of workers; prohibited activities; health monitoring; occupational exposure limits. Certain provisions of the 1946/1947 General Regulation of Labour Protection, as amended (see CIS 93-1056), are repealed. In annex: list of occupational exposure limits (maximum and STEL; in ppm and mg/m3; additional classifications); measurement methods (with references to appropriate European EN standards); biological exposure limit for lead and its ionic compounds (70µg Pb/100mL blood); prohibited substances (2-naphthylamine and its salts; 4-aminobiphenyl and its salts; benzidine and its salts; 4-nitrobiphenyl; all exempted if < 0.1% by weight); detection methods. (77834)
CIS 01-1587 Notification No.292 of 26 Apr. 2001 concerning work with substances and materials (Chemical Agents) [Denmark]. (Danish: Bekendtgørelse om arbejde med stoffer og materialer (kemiske agenser)) Lovtidende A, 26 Apr. 2001, Vol.71, p.1946-1951 + annex. (In Danish) Internet: This Notification (entry into force: 5 May 2001) implements in Denmark the provisions of Directive 98/24/EC on chemical risks at work (see CIS 98-1094). It covers: scope; definitions; general and special conditions; special arrangements due to particular working conditions; action after an occupational accident; directions for the use of dangerous substances; inspection; administrative matters. In annex: health measures in connection with work with specific substances (metallic lead and its ionic compounds; chromate in cement; epoxy resins; isocyanates; asphaltic materials). A number of Notifications is repealed, including the 1982 Notification on chemical hazards (see CIS 84-1007). (77837)
CIS 01-1588 Ordinance No.715 of 9 Aug. 2001 of the Council of State concerning chemical agents at work [Finland]. (Finnish: Valtioneuvoston asetus kemiallisista tekijöistä työssä; Swedish: Statsrådets förordning om kemiska agenser i arbetet) Finlands författningssamling - Suomen säädöskokoelma, 17 Aug. 2001, No.103, p.2209-2216. (In Finnish, Swedish) Internet: This Ordinance (entry into force: 1 Sep. 2001) implements in Finland the provisions of Directive 98/24/EC on chemical risks at work (see CIS 98-1094). It covers: scope; definitions; information on the identification of hazards; safety data sheets for and registration of chemicals used in the workplace; identification and assessment of hazards; measurement; general principles of hazard prevention; special preventive measures; hazards due to the physical characteristics of chemical agents; accidents, near-accidents and emergencies; application of exposure limits; prohibitions; medical supervision; measurement of contaminants in air. In annex: prohibition of the production and use of certain products (2-naphthylamine and its salts; 4-aminobiphenyl and its salts; benzidine and its salts; 4-nitrobiphenyl (all exempted if < 0.1% by weight)). The Ordinance of 8 Oct. 1992 concerning the protection of workers against chemical risks is repealed. (77838)
CIS 01-1589 Official Mexican Standard - Safety and health conditions in workplaces where are handled, transported, processed or stored chemical substances capable of contaminating the working environment [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Condiciones de seguridad e higiene en los centros de trabajo donde se manejen, transporten, procesen o almacenen sustancias químicas capaces de generar contaminación en el medio ambiente laboral [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 1999. 57p. Illus. 14 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all workplaces in Mexico where chemical contaminants are handled, transported, processed or stored); definitions; obligations of employers and workers; hazard recognition (including criteria for the classification of hazard levels); hazard evaluation (incl. sample techniques and exposure calculations); control methods; verification systems. In annex: maximum permissible levels for chemical substances (in ppm and mg/m3; danger codes); carcinogenicity classification; hazard evaluation of mixed substances; synergic effects; procedures for the determination of specific chemicals. A large number of NOM standards related to determination methods are repealed, including 032-1993 (acrolein, CIS 98-28), 034-1993 (oil fumes, CIS 98-27), 036-1993 (formaldehyde, CIS 98-26), 039-1993 (acetone, CIS 98-25), 045-1993 (benzene, CIS 98-23), 047-1993 (xylene, CIS 98-24). (77856)
CIS 01-1590 Official Mexican Standard - System for the identification and communication of hazards and risks caused by dangerous chemical substances in workplaces [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Sistema para la identificación y comunicación de peligros y riesgos por sustancias químicas peligrosas en los centros de trabajo [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copies, 2000. 11+9+5+18p. Illus. 6 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all workplaces in Mexico where dangerous chemicals are handled, transported or stored; however, finished products ready for sale and vehicular transportation outside workplaces are excluded, as are chemicals with health, flammability or reactivity codes of 0); definitions and symbols; responsibilities of employers and workers; identification systems; training and communication systems; verification systems. In annex:rules concerning the identification and the labelling of dangerous chemicals; contents of training and hazard communications; contents of material safety data sheets (MSDSs); guide to filling out MSDSs; labelling requirements; hazard codes with definitions; identification codes for personal protective equipment; list of 931 dangerous chemicals (with corresponding CAS numbers, and NFPA and HMIS codes). (77860)
CIS 01-1591 Regulation No.259/2001 of the Council of Ministers concerning procedures for industrial accident risk assessment and risk reduction measures [Latvia]. (Latvian: Ministru kabineta noteikumi Nr.259/2001 - Rūpniecisko avāriju riska novērtēšanas kārtība un riska samazināšanas pasākumi) Latvijas Republikas Saeimas un Ministru Kabineta Ziņotājs, 2001, No.15, p.360-386. English translation (46p.) available from CIS. (In English, Latvian) Internet: These regulations (effective: 1 July 2001) apply to risk assessment and risk reduction in connection with dangerous industrial chemicals. Contents: general provisions; general requirements for the preparation, submission and examination of documentation; information to be included in an Industrial Accident Prevention Programme; information to be included in the Safety Report; procedures for the submission, evaluation, updating and supplementing of an Industrial Accident Prevention Programme and of a Safety Report; assessments of domino effects (undesirable mutual influence of two or more installations that increases the probability of an industrial accident) and requirements of installations which cause or are affected by a domino effect; requirements for the planning of installations presenting a risk of chemical accident; preparation of an Emergency Preparedness Plan, and procedures for its evaluation and implementation; provision of information regarding protection and safety measures; post-accident measures; inspection of installations. In annex: list of dangerous substances, with threshold quantities; sample application forms for dangerous substances at an installation; criteria for accident evaluation and information provision after an accident. (77846)
CIS 01-1592 Storage and Handling of Petroleum Products and Allied Products Regulation [Canada - Manitoba]. (French: Règlement sur le stockage et la manutention des produits du pétrole et des produits apparentés [Canada - Manitoba]) Manitoba Gazette - Gazette du Manitoba, 29 Dec. 2001, Vol.130, No.52, p.1692-1737. (In English, French) Internet: Regulation issued under the Dangerous Goods Handling and Transportation Act. Contents: interpretation, application and designation; general provisions; internal-combustion engine fuel quality; permits for construction and alteration of storage tank systems; permits for operation; inventory and record keeping; spillages and leakages; transfer of permits or real property; out-of-service storage tank systems; licensed petroleum technicians; required tests and inspections; upgrading or removal of storage tank systems. (77850)
CIS 01-1593 Official Mexican Standard - Safety conditions: Fire prevention and protection and firefighting in the workplace [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Condiciones de seguridad: Prevención, protección y combate de incendios en los centros de trabajo [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 2000. 20p. 5 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all workplaces in Mexico); definitions; employers' and workers' obligations; fire safety programmes; fire safety requirements; requirements for the fire fighting team; revision and maintenance of fire fighting equipment; verification systems. In annex: determination of the degree of fire hazard; reference guides (fire detectors, fixed fire fighting equipment, emergency teams, fire extinguishers, extinguishing agents). Standard NOM-105-STPS-1994 on fire fighting terminology is repealed. (77852)
CIS 01-1594 Guidelines on Protection of Radiation Impacts - Decree of the Minister of Health No.1217/MENKES/SK/XI/2001 dated Nov. 19, 2001 [Indonesia]. Business News (Indonesia), 13 Feb. 2002, Year 46, No.6725/6726, p.3A-6A. (In English) Internet: Translation of a decree establishing basic guidelines for the monitoring of activities involving ionizing and non-ionizing radiation at above permitted radiation levels. It also foresees appropriate early warning actions, data gathering, coordination of intervention teams, and training and supervision of qualified radiation safety personnel. (77832)
CIS 01-1595 Official Mexican Standard - Safety and health conditions in workplaces where noise is generated [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Condiciones de seguridad e higiene en los centros de trabajo donde se genere ruido [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 2001. 28p. Illus. 32 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all workplaces in Mexico where workers may be exposed to noise); definitions, magnitudes, abbreviations and units; obligations of emplyoers and workers; permissible limits of noise exposure; hearing conservation programmes; new workplaces and modification of work procedures in existing workplaces; verification systems. In annex: table of maximum permitted exposure levels (maximum time in function of dB(A) levels); noise measurement methods and calculations; selection of hearing protective equipment. Official Standard NOM-011-STPS-1993 (see CIS 95-29) on the same subject is superseded. (77857)
CIS 01-1596 Official Mexican Standard - Safety and health conditions in workplaces where non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation is generated [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Relativa a las condiciones de seguridad e higiene en los centros de trabajo donde se generen radiaciones electromagnéticas no ionizantes [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 1993. 6p. 1 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all workplaces in Mexico where workers may be exposed to non-ionizing radiation); obligations of employers and workers; exposure evaluation; definitions. In annex: exposure limits for radio- and microwave, infared, visible and ultraviolet radiation. (77858)
CIS 01-1597 Official Mexican Standard - Occupational exposure to abnormal environmental pressure: Safety and health conditions [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Exposición laboral a presiones ambientales anormales - Condiciones de seguridad e higiene [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 2000. 18p. + annexes (not included in pagination). (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all work activities which include diving, or which involve work under low atmospheric pressure); definitions and symbols; obligations of employers and exposed workers; safety and health conditions of activities performed under low atmospheric pressure; safety and health conditions of activities under diving-type high atmospheric pressure; verification systems. In annexes: decompression tables and other limits connected with work under abnormal atmospheric pressure. (77859)
CIS 01-1598 Council of Ministers Regulation No.240/2001 concerning the technical supervision of pressurized equipment [Latvia]. (Latvian: Ministru kabineta noteikumi Nr.240/2001 - Spiedieniekārtu tehniskās uzraudzības kārtība) Latvijas Republikas Saeimas un Ministru Kabineta Ziņotājs, 2001, No.14, p.195-203. (In Latvian) Internet: This Regulation determines the technical procedures for the safety inspection of pressurized equipment in workplaces. (77845)
CIS 01-1599 Official Mexican Standard - Materials handling and storage: Safety conditions and procedures [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Manejo y almacenamiento de materiales: Condiciones y procedimientos de seguridad [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 2000. 14p. 29 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all workplaces in Mexico where manual or mechanical materials handling takes place); definitions; obligations of employers and workers; safety and health procedures in materials handling and storage operations; manual loading; verification systems. Standard NOM-023-STPS-1993 on the safe use of lifting equipment is repealed. (77853)
CIS 01-1600 Official Mexican Standard - Suspended access equipment: Installation, operation and maintenance - Safety conditions [Mexico]. (Spanish: Norma Oficial Mexicana - Equipo suspendido de acceso: Instalación, operación y mantenimiento - Condiciones de seguridad [México]) Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social, Internet copy, 1999. 9p. 4 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Contents of this standard: scope (all workplaces in Mexico where suspended access equipment is used for work at heights); definitions; obligations of employers; obligations of workers engaged in the installation, operation and maintenance of suspended access equipment; safety conditions; verification systems. In annex: minimum requirements for manuals used for installation, operation and maintenance work involving suspended access equipment. (77855)
Chemical data sheets and criteria documentsCIS 01-1601 Dimethoxymethane. (French: Diméthoxyméthane) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 3p. 17 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Synonyms: methylal, formal, formaldehyde dimethylacetal. Toxicity: irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract; narcotic effect at high concentrations; animal experiments have shown lung, liver and kidney damage. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 3100mg/m3 (1000ppm). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77591)
CIS 01-1602 Perchloric acid. (French: Acide perchlorique) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. Illus. 17 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 88-757. Toxicity: chemical burns in case of skin and eye contact, the severity of which depends on contact time; intense irritation of eye and respiratory mucous membranes, followed by caustic lesions; retrosternal pain, cough and dyspnoea; pulmonary oedema may be delayed; ingestion causes caustic lesions with possible delayed complications (digestive haemorrhage, oesophagal or gastric perforation, respiratory distress; inhalation lung disease and risk of digestive stenosis). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.017-006-00-4 (aqueous solutions); C, O, R5, R8, R35, S23, S26, S36. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77592)
CIS 01-1603 Asbestos. (French: Amiante) Brondeau M.T., Clavel T., Falcy M, Jargot D., Reynier M., Schneider O., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 7p. Illus. 52 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 79-1574. Toxicity: severe impairment of the respiratory function; interstitial fibrosis (asbestosis); pleural damage; bronchopulmonary cancer and mesothelioma. Exposure limits (France): 0.1 fibre/cm3 over 8 working hours for chrysotile; 0.1 fibre/cm3 for 1 working hour for other asbestos varieties and mixtures, as well as for work in confined spaces. EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.650-013-00-6; T, R45, R48/23, S53, S45. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77593)
CIS 01-1604 Formic acid. (French: Acide formique) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 5p. Illus. 26 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 88-741. Synonym: methanoic acid. Toxicity: strong caustic effect; severe skin and eye lesions; ingestion can cause irritation and ulceration of the digestive tract which may lead to complications in the following days (digestive haemorrhage, gastric or oesophagal perforation, respiratory distress and risk of digestive stenosis). Chronic toxicity: eye irritation; gastric pain; nausea; respiratory disorders. Carcinogen; skin and nasal septum ulcers; renal damage (ingestion). Exposure limits (France): TWA = 9mg/m3 (5ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.607-001-00-0 (aqueous solutions); C, R35, S2, S23, S26. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77594)
CIS 01-1605 Selenium and inorganic compounds. (French: Sélénium et composés minéraux) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. 29 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 80-1051. Acute toxicity: irritation of the skin and of ocular and respiratory mucous membranes; eczema; bronchial syndrome; dyspnoea; inhalation of massive doses may cause delayed pulmonary oedema. Chronic toxicity: paleness; loss of weight; nausea; anorexia; loss of smell; metallic taste in the mouth; garlic smell of the breath and perspiration. Exposure limits: France TWA = 0.08mg/m3 or 0.02ppm (hydrogen selenide); 0.2mg/m3 or 0.05ppm (selenium hexafluoride; USA: 0.2mg Se/m3 (ACGIH). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77595)
CIS 01-1606 2,6-Dimethylpyridine. (French: 2,6-Diméthylpyridine) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 3p. 16 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Synonym: 2,6-lutidine. Toxicity: higher toxicity than pyridine. Animal experiments indicate that 2,6-dymethylpyridine should be considered as a moderate skin, eye and mucous membrane irritant, and that it could affect the nervous system (depressive action and narcosis) and cause kidney and liver damage. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77596)
CIS 01-1607 Aldicarb. (French: Aldicarbe) Pillière F., Protois J.C., Reynier M., de Ceaurriz J., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. Illus. 20 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 80-2018. Synonyms: (2-methyl-2-methylthiopropylidene)amine N-methylcarbamate; 2-methyl-2-(methylthio)propionaldehyde; O-(methylcarbamoyl)oxime. Acute toxicity: cholinesterase inhibition (signs of muscarinic and nicotinic intoxication); respiratory disorders; the symptoms disappear after administration of atropine. Chronic toxicity: skin irritation. EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.006-017-00-X; T+, R27/28, S22, S36/37, S45, 204-123-2. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77597)
CIS 01-1608 4-(3-Phenylpropyl)pyridine. (French: 4-(3-Phénylpropyl)pyridine) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 2p. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 81-446. Toxicity: no known cases of poisoning in humans. Animal experiments show a moderate irritating action on the skin and a slight irritating action on the eyes. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77598)
CIS 01-1609 2-Propene-1-ol. (French: 2-Propène-1-ol) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. Illus. 18 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 91-63. Acute toxicity: irritation of the nasal and ocular mucous membranes; skin contact may cause irritation and sometimes burns; systemic symptoms. Chronic toxicity: no disorders following extended exposure have been reported. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 5mg/m3 (2ppm); ceiling value = 10mg/m3 (4ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.603-015-00-6; T, R10, R23/24/25, R36/37/38, S36/37/39, S38, S44. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77599)
CIS 01-1610 N,N-Dimethylisopropylamine. (French: N,N-Diméthylisopropylamine) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 3p. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Synonym: N,N'-dimethyl-2-propanamine. Toxicity: the only toxicological data available are from animal experiments; irritant effect on skin, eyes and respiratory mucous membranes; skin absorption. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77600)
CIS 01-1611 Tribromomethane. (French: Tribromométhane) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. Illus. 13 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 87-864. Synonym: bromoform. Acute toxicity: irritation of the skin, eyes and mucous membranes; hypersalivation; sleepiness, ataxia, coma, convulsions (inhalation); pulmonary oedema; respiratory impairment and cardiovascular collapse (ingestion); severe skin and eye burns; irritation and ulceration of mucous membranes. Chronic toxicity: neurological, psychiatric and cutaneous symptoms; impairment of the hepatic functions. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 5mg/m3 (0.5ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.602-007-00-X; T, R23, R36/38, S28, S44. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77601)
CIS 01-1612 Hexamethylene tetramine. (French: Hexaméthylène tétramine) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 3p. 11 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 83-709. Synonyms: methenamine, hexamine, HMTA, HMT. Acute toxicity: moderate irritation of the skin and eyes; digestive disorders; haematuria. Chronic toxicity: eczema; asthmatic dyspnoea. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77602)
CIS 01-1613 Phosphorus trihydride. (French: Trihydrure de phosphore) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. 16 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Synonyms: phosphine, phosphorated hydrogen. Acute toxicity: irritation of the respiratory mucous membranes; neurological disorders; respiratory disorder (pulmonary oedema); gastrointestinal disorders. Chronic toxicity: chronic bronchial disorders; digestive disorders; anaemia; vision and speech disorders. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 0.13mg/m3 (0.1ppm); ceiling value = 0.4mg/m3 (0.3ppm). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77603)
CIS 01-1614 Sodium and potassium chromates and dichromates. (French: Chromates et dichromates de sodium et de potassium) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. 15 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 83-712. Synonyms: sodium bichromate, potassium bichromate. Acute toxicity: digestive disorders; hepatic and renal impairment; cardiac insufficiency; spills may induce eye irritation; skin necrosis; bronchial irritation. Chronic toxicity: skin and mucous membrane ulcers; allergic skin diseases; perforation of the nasal septum; chronic fibrosis; bronchial and pulmonary cancers. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 0.05mg Cr/m3. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77604)
CIS 01-1615 Methyl acrylate. (French: Acrylate de méthyle) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. 12 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 83-1028. Synonym: methyl-2-propionate. Acute toxicity: irritation of the skin, eye and mucous membranes; rapid absorption through intact skin; pulmonary oedema; neurological signs and respiratory disorders with cyanosis (ingestion). Chronic toxicity: skin diseases; tracheobronchitis; sensitization; hepatic and renal damage. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 35mg/m3 (10ppm); ceiling value = 50mg/m3 (15ppm). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77605)
CIS 01-1616 Paraquat. (French: Paraquat) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 4p. 20 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 83-1029. Synonyms: 1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridinium; 1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridyldylium; 1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridilium. Acute toxicity: caustic lesions; renal, hepatic and suprarenal insufficiency; pulmonary fibrosis. Chronic toxicity: skin and ungual lesions; irritation of mucous membranes of the eye and the respiratory tract. Exposure limits (France, ACGIH 1987): TWA = 0.1mg/m3 for aerosols for which 25% of particles have a diameter lower or equal to 5µm. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77606)
CIS 01-1617 Lithium and its inorganic compounds. (French: Lithium et composés minéraux) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 4p. 14 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 83-1030. Acute toxicity: caustic lesions of the skin and eyes; irritation of the respiratory tract; digestive and neurological disorders (ingestion). Chronic toxicity: neurological effects; abnormalities of the electrocardiogram. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 0.025mg/m3 (lithium hydride). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77607)
CIS 01-1618 Chloroethylene. (French: Chloroéthylène) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 5p. 21 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Synonym: vinyl chloride. Acute toxicity: effects on the central nervous system; irritation of the skin and respiratory tract; spills may cause reversible corneal damage. Chronic toxicity: carcinogenic effects; skin and bone damage; Raynaud's phenomenon; scleroderma; digestive symptoms; liver damage; haematopoietic effects; impairment of the respiratory function; chromosome changes. Exposure limits (France): TWA max. 1ppm for equipment commissioned after 1st September 1980, max. 3ppm for equipment commissioned prior to that date; alarm value = 5ppm. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77608)
CIS 01-1619 Ethyl acrylate. (French: Acrylate d'éthyle) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 4p. Illus. 15 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 83-1643. Synonym: ethyl-2-propenoate. Toxicity: irritation of the skin and mucous membranes. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 20mg/m3 (5ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.607-032-00-X; Xn, F, R11, R20/22, R36/37/38, R43, S9, S16, S33. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77609)
CIS 01-1620 Calcium cyanamide. (French: Cyanamide de calcium) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, 2000. 3p. Illus. 12 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 83-1644. Synonyms: calcic cyanamide, nitrolime. Acute toxicity: irritation of the skin and mucous membranes; conjunctivitis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, kératitis; antabuse effect. Chronic toxicity: chronic rhinitis; perforation of the nasal septum; skin diseases and ulcerations of the skin; sensitization. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 0.5mg/m3. EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.615-013-00-2; T, R21, R25, R36/38, R43, S3, S22, S36/37, S45. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM nalysed under CIS 01-201. (77610)
CIS 01-1621 2-Hexanone. (French: 2-Hexanone) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 4p. Illus. 15 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 88-1459. Rapid skin absorption. Chronic toxicity: neuropathy of peripheral nerves; moderate irritation of the ocular and respiratory mucous membranes. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 20mg/m3 (5ppm); ceiling value = 35mg/m3 (8ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.606-030-00-8; T, F, R11, R48/23, S9, S16, S29, S44, S51. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77611)
CIS 01-1622 Hydrogen peroxide and its aqueous solutions. (French: Peroxyde d'hydrogène et solutions aqueuses) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 5p. Illus. 12 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 88-1461. Acute toxicity: irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes at high concentrations; slight sensation of burn and temporary bleaching of the skin or blisters; caustic lesions of buccal and pharyngeal mucous membranes and gastric and oesophageal distension on ingestion; pulmonary oedema, neurological signs, digestive disorders, symptoms of severe systemic poisoning (inhalation). Chronic toxicity: yellowish skin pigmentation and bleaching of the hair. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 1.5mg/m3 (1ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.008-003-00-9 (aqueous solutions); C, O, R8, R34, S3, S28, S36/39. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77612)
CIS 01-1623 Barium and compounds. (French: Baryum et composés) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 5p. 18 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 77-184. Toxicity: widespread muscular stimulation followed by paralytic disorders; muscular spasms, arrhythmia (soluble compounds); barytosis, pneumoconiosis; caustic skin lesions (insoluble compounds). Exposure limits: TWA = 0.5mg Ba/m3 (EEC and ACGIH). EEC numbers: No.016-002-00-X (barium sulfide); No.016-003-00-5 (barium polysulfides); No.017-003-00-8 (barium chlorate); No.017-007-00-X (barium perchlorate); No.056-001-00-1 (barium dioxide); No.056-003-00-2 (barium carbonate); No.056-002-00-7 (other barium salts). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77613)
CIS 01-1624 Cobalt and inorganic compounds. (French: Cobalt et composés minéraux) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 8p. 20 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 77-1360. Toxicity: at high doses, severe poisoning with damage of the kidneys, nervous system and cardiovascular system; pulmonary fibrosis (inhalation); eczemas; irritative pulmonary disorders. Chronic toxicity: carcinogen; skin and nasal septum ulcers; renal damage (ingestion). Exposure limits for cobalt smoke in air (USA): TWA = 0.05mg/m3 (ACGIH, 1991). EEC numbers: No.027-001-00-9 (cobalt); No.027-002-00-4 (cobalt oxide); No.027-003-00-X (cobalt sulfide). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77614)
CIS 01-1625 Diphenylmethane-4,4'-diisocyanate. (French: 4,4'-Diisocyanate de diphénylméthane) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 4p. Illus. 24 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 87-816. Acute toxicity: irritation of the mucous membranes of the eye, the upper respiratory tract and, sometimes, the digestive tract; bronchial irritation; neurological signs; pulmonary oedema. Effects may be delayed. Chronic toxicity: contact eczema, allergic asthma; hypersensitivity lung disease; blepharoconjunctivitis. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 0.1mg/m3 (0.01ppm); ceiling value = 0.2mg/m3 (0.02ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.615-005-01-9; Xn, R20, R36/37/38, R42, S25,S28, S38, S45. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77615)
CIS 01-1626 Isopropylamine. (French: Isopropylamine) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 4p. Illus. 21 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 90-1808. Acute toxicity: strong irritation of the nose and throat and respiratory disorders; visual function disorders; chemical burns; severe eye lesions which may be irreversible (projections). Chronic toxicity: skin diseases. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 12mg/m3 (5ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.612-007-00-1; F, Xi, R12, R36/37/38, S16, S26, S29. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77616)
CIS 01-1627 2-Methoxyethyl acetate. (French: Acétate de 2-méthoxyéthyle) Brondeau M.T., Falcy M., Miraval S., Protois J.C., Reynier M., Schneider O., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 4p. Illus. 15 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 87-837. Toxicity: there is little information on toxicity in humans; tendency to anaemia, granulopenia and oligospermia; malformations of the genital organs (hypospadias) in children born to women heavily exposed during pregnancy; increase in the number of spontaneous abortions. Chronic toxicity: carcinogen; skin and nasal septum ulcers; renal damage (ingestion). Exposure limits (France): TWA = 24mg/m3 (5ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.607-036-00-1; T, R60, R61, R10, R20/21/22, S53, S45, 203-772-9. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77617)
CIS 01-1628 Turpentine. (French: Essence de térébenthine) Brondeau M.T., Jargot D., Pillière F., Protois J.C., Reynier M., Schneider O., Serre P., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 5p. Illus. 25 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 78-449. Acute toxicity: irritation of the skin, eyes, nose and lungs; effects on the nervous system. Chronic toxicity: skin irritation (defatting and drying action) and skin allergies; sensitization. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 560mg/m3 (100ppm). EEC number and mandatory labelling codes: No.650-002-00-6; Xn, N, R10, R20/21/22, R65, R36/38, R43, R51/53, S36/37, S46, S61, S62, 232-350-7. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77618)
CIS 01-1629 Trichlorofluoromethane. (French: Trichlorofluorométhane) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 4p. 18 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 89-1146. Acute toxicity: bradycardia and inversion of the T wave on the electrocardiogram; neurological effects; eye irritation. Chronic toxicity: skin diseases in the case of prolonged or repeated. Exposure limits (France): TWA = 5600mg/m3 (1000ppm). Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77619)
CIS 01-1630 Boric acid. (French: Acide borique) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Rev.ed., CD-ROM CD 613, June 2001. 4p. 34 ref. (In French) Internet: Chemical safety information sheet. Update of data sheet already summarized in CIS 87-397. Acute toxicity: digestive disorders; hyperthermia; neurological effects; tachycardia; haemodynamical disorders; kidney, liver and pancreas damage; skin rashes. Chronic toxicity: neuropsychic effects; exfoliative dermatitis and loss of hair; decrease of sexual activity and antifertility effects in men. Complete datasheet collection on CD-ROM analysed under CIS 01-201. (77620)
CIS 01-1631 Toxicological profile for chloromethane (Update). Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology/Toxicology Information Branch, 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, Dec. 1998. xix, 241p. Illus. Approx. 450 ref. (In English) Internet: This profile was prepared in accordance with guidelines set by the US Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and the EPA. The key literature related to the toxic effects of chloromethane is identified and reviewed. Contents: public health statement; health effects; chemical and physical information; production, import, use and disposal; potential for human exposure; analytical methods; regulations and advisories; glossary. Health hazards include: neurotoxic effects (burred vision, dizziness, confusion, convulsion, coma); kidney and liver damage; tachycardia, increased pulse rate and decreased blood pressure. (Update of CIS 91-1262). (77792)
CIS 01-1632 Toxicological profile for lead (Update). Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology/Toxicology Information Branch, 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, July 1999. xx, 587p. Illus. Approx. 1600 ref. (In English) Internet: This profile was prepared in accordance with guidelines set by the US Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and the EPA. The key literature related to the toxic effects of lead is identified and reviewed. Contents: public health statement; health effects; chemical and physical information; production, import, use and disposal; potential for human exposure; analytical methods; regulations and advisories; glossary. Health hazards include: neurotoxic effects; brain damage (encephalopathy); anaemia; renal damage; effects on reproduction (miscarriage, damage to the male reproductive system); retarded development of the new born; possible effects on children resulting from parental exposure; animal studies indicate a carcinogenic potential. (Update of CIS 96-2227). (77793)
CIS 01-1633 Toxicological profile for alpha-, beta-, gamma- and delta-hexachlorocyclohexane (Update). Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology/Toxicology Information Branch, 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, July 1999. xix, 273p. Illus. Approx. 860 ref. (In English) Internet: This profile was prepared in accordance with guidelines set by the US Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and the EPA. The key literature related to the toxic effects of hexachlorocyclohexane is identified and reviewed. Contents: public health statement; health effects; chemical and physical information; production, import, use and disposal; potential for human exposure; analytical methods; regulations and advisories; glossary. Health hazards include: neurologic effects (dizziness, seizures); haematological changes; effects on the immune system; liver and kidney damage; changes in reproductive hormone levels in the blood; animal studies show reproductive effects, genotoxicity and cancerogenicity (liver cancer). (Update of CIS 99-234). (77796)
Training materials and practical informationCIS 01-1634 Safety - Reference publications, series, collections, posters, forms, videos, periodicals aimed at professionals. (French: Sécurité: référentiels, collections, illustrés, imprimés, vidéos, presse professionnelle) CNPP Entreprise SARL, Service d'Abonnements, BP 2265, 27950 Saint-Marcel, France, 2001. 31p. Illus. (In French) Internet: Catalogue of reference publications, series, collections, posters, forms, videos, periodicals aimed at professionals and other printed material available from the French National Protection and Prevention Centre (Centre National de Prévention et de Protection). Most publications focus on fire safety. Additional topics covered include: detection of trespassers; theft alarm systems; protection against break-ins; guide to behaviour in case of aggression or conflict; analysis of technological accidents and prevention strategies. (77720)
CIS 01-1635 Effective health and safety training - A trainer's resource pack. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. iv, 107p. Illus. 31 ref. Price: GBP 21.95., ISBN 0-7176-2109-X (In English) Internet: This manual is designed to help employers and trainers improve safety and health performance by providing appropriate in-house training. It is primarily aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises. Contents: trainer's guide; business case for managing safety and health; initial review; company safety and health culture; responsibilities; customer and supply chain; buying dangerous equipment; hazard identification; assessing existing controls and prioritizing improvements; systematic approach to improvements; planning continuous improvements. (77784)
CIS 01-1636 Our articulations are vulnerable - Musculoskeletal disorders: Diseases which can no longer be ignored. (French: Nos articulations sont fragiles - Troubles musculosquelettiques: des maladies à ne plus ignorer) CRAM des Pays de la Loire, 2 Place de Bretagne, BP 93405, 44034 Nantes, France, no date. 6p. Illus. (In French) Internet: This leaflet is aimed at generating awareness among employers and employees for occupational musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). It highlights the risk factors as well as the consequences of MSDs for the company (sickness absenteeism, direct costs, impact on quality), and mentions the main risk indicators that one should look for in the workplace. (77714)
CIS 01-1637 Lifting and transport equipment for in-plant transport. (Spanish: Equipos de elevación y transporte en el interior de las empresas) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2001. 37p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-587-2 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in lifting and transport equipment for in-plant transport and corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; physical hazards; harmful chemicals; biological agents; fires and explosions; workplace design; work organization; legislation; risk assessment methods. (77824)
CIS 01-1638 Internal audit - Garages (automobile repairs, light vehicles). (French: Autodiagnostic - Garages (réparation automobile; véhicules légers)) CRAM des Pays de la Loire, 7 rue de Président E. Hériot, BP 93405, 44034 Nantes, France, Oct. 1999. 22p. Illus. 4 ref. (In French) Internet: Through an internal auditing of hazards, one can develop a safety and health plan adapted to the company. A check-list for conducting such an audit in automobile repair garages is proposed, consisting of the following parts: analysis of the location; activities and equipment (repair, mechanical and car-body workshops, storage and handling of parts, cleaning of floors, test-driving on roads, personal protective equipment, safety training of workers); waste management; part-time workers; action plan. (77716)
CIS 01-1639 Safety and health in small-scale surface mines - A handbook. (French: Guide sur la sécurité et hygiène dans les petites mines à ciel ouvert; Spanish: Guía de seguridad e higiene en minas pequeñas a cielo abierto) Walle M., Jennings N., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. v, 51p. Illus., ISBN 92-2-112475-4 (en), ISBN 92-2-212475-8 (fr), ISBN 92-2-312475-1 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: Worldwide, approximately 13 million workers are employed in small-scale surface mines, mostly in the informal sector in developing countries. Occupational safety and health regulations are not always adapted to small-scale surface mining, and may require revision. This booklet sets out a few basic principles for use in the absence of specific regulations, or in conjunction with them. Contents: objectives, scope and definitions; general principles and provisions; mining accidents and dangerous occurrences; hazards in the working environment; health, welfare and hygiene of mineworkers; first aid; personal protective equipment; safety when mining; mechanical equipment; explosives and blasting; mine closures. (77787)
CIS 01-1640 Asphalt equipment. (Spanish: Plantas de asfaltado) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2001. 37p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-586-4 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards when working with asphalting equipment and corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; physical hazards; harmful chemicals; biological agents; fires and explosions; workplace design; work organization; legislation; risk assessment methods. (77822)
CIS 01-1641 Garment manufacturing units. (Spanish: Talleres de confección) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2001. 37p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-589-9 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in garment manufacturing units and corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; physical hazards; harmful chemicals; biological agents; fires and explosions; workplace design; work organization; legislation; risk assessment methods. (77821)
CIS 01-1642 Internal audit - Furniture industry. (French: Autodiagnostic - Fabrication de meubles (fabrication industrielle)) CRAM des Pays de la Loire, 7 rue de Président E. Hériot, BP 93405, 44034 Nantes, France, May 1999. 48p. Illus. 16 ref (In French) Internet: Through an internal auditing of hazards, one can develop a safety and health plan adapted to the company. A check-list for conducting such an audit in the furniture manufacturing industry is proposed, consisting of the following parts: periodical checks of installations and equipment; reception of raw materials; storage and handling; analysis of workplaces (prevention of hazards due to various machines and products used for cutting, machining, finishing, assembly, packing); storage of finished goods; ventilation systems; temporary workers; action plan. (77719)
CIS 01-1643 Internal audit - Book printing. (French: Autodiagnostic - Imprimerie de labeur) CRAM des Pays de la Loire, 7 rue de Président E. Hériot, BP 93405, 44034 Nantes, France, May 1999. 24p. Illus. (In French) Internet: Through an internal auditing of hazards, one can develop a safety and health plan adapted to the company. A check-list for conducting such an audit in book printing shops is proposed, consisting of the following parts: periodical checks of installations and equipment; storage; waste management; prevention against hazards due to the various types of press and other equipment used (guillotine, folder, assembler, puncher, inserter and assembler, film laminator); temporary workers; action plan. (77718)
CIS 01-1644 Internal audit - Health. (French: Autodiagnostic - Santé) CRAM des Pays de la Loire, 7 rue de Président E. Hériot, BP 93405, 44034 Nantes, France, Feb. 1996. 16p. Illus. (In French) Internet: Through an internal auditing of hazards, one can develop a safety and health plan adapted to the company. A check-list for conducting such an audit in health care establishments and pensioners' homes is proposed, consisting of the following parts: data inventory (employment, capacity, occupational accident and disease statistics); organization of supervision and emergency services; mandatory equipment verification; health care activities (management of needles and used needles, handling of persons, radiology, operating theatres, chemotherapy, radiotherapy); support services (linen, catering, waste disposal, cleaning of the premises; external contractors; temporary workers); training of employees; action plan. (77717)
CIS 01-1645 Service stations. (Spanish: Estaciones de servicio) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2001. 53p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-588-0 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in service stations and corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; physical hazards; harmful chemicals; biological agents; fires and explosions; workplace design; work organization; legislation; risk assessment methods. (77823)
CIS 01-1646 Electrical safety - Safety and health for electrical trades - Student manual. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Jan. 2002. vi, 77p. Illus. Index. (In English) Internet: Young and new workers are at a high risk of occupational injury compared to more experienced workers. It is estimated that 200,000 young workers under the age of 18 suffer work-related injuries in the United States each year. This manual is part of the safety and health curriculum for secondary and post-secondary electrical trades courses. The manual is designed to engage the learner in recognizing, evaluating and controlling hazards associated with electrical work. Contents: dangers of electricity; dangers of electrical shock; overview of the safety model; recognizing hazards; evaluating hazards; controlling hazards; safe work environment; safe work practices. (77759)
CIS 01-1647 Electricity lines in the vicinity of silos. (French: Lignes électriques à proximité des silos) CRAM des Pays de la Loire, 7 rue de Président E. Hériot, BP 93405, 44034 Nantes, France, no date. 4p. Illus. (In French) Internet: The purpose of this information leaflet is to minimize hazards from overhead electric lines when delivering fodder to farms. It describes a case where corrective action (moving the overhead line) was taken following an accident, and provides guidance for selecting the site for the silo and for the organization of its operation. (77715)
CIS 01-1648 Power tools: How to reduce vibration health risks. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2001. 12p. Illus. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: Millions of hand-held power tools are used in the United Kingdom in sectors including agriculture and the shipbuilding, construction and quarrying industries. Power tools transmit hand-arm vibration and may put operators at risk of a range of diseases collectively known as the hand-arm vibration syndrome, which include vibration white finger, carpal tunnel syndrome, numbness and tingling in the hands and arms, painful joints and muscle weakening, damage to bones in the hands and arms. This leaflet is aimed at employers and users, and explains their duties under current United Kingdom legislation. Contents include: legal aspects; responsibilities; understanding and using manufacturers' vibration data; other important factors in choosing tools; managing tool use. (77708)
CIS 01-1649 Sun protection. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Apr. 2001. 6p. Illus. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause skin damage including sunburn, blistering, skin ageing, and in the long term can lead to skin cancer. This leaflet is aimed at employers or managers responsible for persons working outdoors for most of the day. It contains advice on reducing the health risks from UV radiation, which include staying fully-clothed, wearing a hat with a brim that covers the ears and back of the neck, using solar creams, drinking water to prevent dehydration and regularly checking the skin for any unusual moles or spots. (77706)
CIS 01-1650 Pressure systems - Safety and you. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, May 2001. 8p. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: Each year in the United Kingdom, there are approximately 150 occurrences of failures of pressure equipment, of which approximately six result in fatalities or serious injuries. This leaflet is aimed at employers or the self-employed, informing them of their duties under the Pressure Equipment Regulations 1999 (CIS 01-652) and the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000. Employers have a further duty to consult workers or their representatives on safety and health matters. Contents include: reducing the risk of failure; providing safe and suitable equipment; knowing the operating conditions; installing suitable protective devices; carrying out suitable maintenance; training; equipment inspection. (77707)
CIS 01-1651 Eight basic questions on mobile platforms. (French: Huit questions essentielles autour des échafaudages roulants) Suva, Arbeitschutz, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, June 1999. 10p. Illus. (In French) Internet: Aimed at persons working on mobile platforms, this leaflet highlights the eight basic points that need to be checked: state of the platform, state of the covering and railings, wheel blocking systems, platform access, moving of the platform, protection against platform fall-over, stability of the ground or platform base, signalling of work on mobile platforms. (77711)
CIS 01-1652 Road hazards and the company. (French: Risque routier en entreprise) CRAM des Pays de la Loire, 2 Place de Bretagne, BP 93405, 44034 Nantes, France, no date. 6p. Illus. (In French) Internet: The objective of this leaflet is to create awareness among business managers concerning the consequences of traffic accidents for the company (injuries, average absenteeism of two months, important direct and indirect costs, possible threat to the survival of the company, civil and criminal penalties), and to encourage them to engage efforts in the area of traffic accident prevention through an analysis of accidents, risks and costs, by informing and training workers and through improved organization of travel. (77713)
CIS 01-1653 Ergonomic checkpoints: Practical and easy-to-implement solutions for improving safety, health and working conditions. (Portuguese: Pontos de verificação ergonômica - Soluções práticas e de fácil aplicação para melhorar a segurança, a saúde e as condições de trabalho) International Labour Organization, Fundacentro, Rua Capote Valente 710, São Paulo, SP 05409-002, Brazil, 2001. 327p. Illus. (In Portuguese) Internet: Portuguese translation of the ILO manual abstracted as CIS 96-2070. It contains 128 "checkpoints", each consisting of one page of important points to remember about an ergonomic issue (including many OSH subjects as well), grouped under the headings WHY, HOW, SOME MORE HINTS and POINTS TO REMEMBER, together with one page of illustrations. The checkpoints themselves are grouped under the following headings: materials storage and handling; hand tools; productive machine safety; improving workstation design; lighting; premises; control of hazardous substances and agents; welfare facilities; work organization. An overall ergonomic check-list, with one recommendation for each of the checkpoints, is also provided. (77786)
CIS 01-1654 Legal aspects relative to the use of dependency-causing substances in the workplace. (French: Les substances engendrant la dépendance au poste de travail d'un point de vue juridique; German: Suchtmittel am Arbeitsplatz aus rechtlicher Sicht; Italian: Sostanze generanti dipendenza sul luogo di lavoro: aspetti giuridici) Rüegsegger R., Suva, Arbeitssicherheit, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, Jan. 2001. 7p. Illus. (In French, German, Italian) Internet: Aimed at employers, this booklet highlights the legal aspects relative to the consumption of dependency-causing substances in the workplace. Main topics covered: responsibilities of employers and employees; prohibition of alcohol consumption; breath analysers, blood and urine analyses; reduced insurance coverage in the event of an accident; consumption of illegal substances; conditions of employment of persons participating in heroin or methadone treatment programmes. (77712)
Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisualsCIS 01-1655 Descriptive study of occupational accidents having occurred in 1998 in 20 town halls in Ile-de-France. (French: Etude descriptive des accidents du travail survenus en 1998 dans 20 mairies de l'Ile-de-France) Alcouffe J., Boscher D., Brehier M., Faupin F., Fau-Prudhomot P., Manillier P., Montéléon P.Y., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2001, Vol.41, No.1, p.31-38. 10 ref. (In French) Internet: To study occupational accidents (OAs) having occurred in town halls, an epidemiological survey was carried out in 20 town halls situated in the greater Paris region, with the objectives of describing the circumstances of the OA and its consequences on the victim, and defining preventive actions. Occupational physicians interviewed the victims of OAs having occurred during 1998 with the help of an anonymous standardized questionnaire. 186 questionnaires were collected, of which 176 were usable. Despite the very different jobs occupied by men and women, there were no significant sex-linked differences in the characteristics of the OAs. There were no fatal accidents. In 87% of the cases, the OA occurred when carrying out a normal task, for which the employee had the necessary experience and ample time. 71% of the OAs resulted in lost time. In conclusion, OAs do not seem very different from those of private sector SMEs in the same region. (77669)
CIS 01-1656 Occupational injuries reported to insurance companies in Norway from 1991 to 1996. Bulls N., Riise T., Moen B.E., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.41, No.9, p.788-793. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: Occupational injuries represent a relatively high proportion of the total number of injuries in Norway. Occupational injury claims made to insurance companies in Norway from 1991 to 1996 were analysed for determination of their patterns. The types of injury with the highest incidence rates among men were fractures, while among women, the highest rates were for those for sprains. The injury rates were more than twice as high in young men as in young women; this difference declined with increasing age. Young men had an increased risk of finger injuries, compared with older age groups. The injury rates increased with increasing age, especially for fractures and contusions. A somewhat higher number of injuries per working day occurred in January and February than in the other months. Action should be taken to prevent fractures and contusions among older workers. (77643)
CIS 01-1657 The impact of support of occupational health research on national development in developing countries. Rutherford B.A., Forget G., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 1997, Vol.3 No.1, p.68-83. Illus. 120 ref. (In English) Internet: This paper assesses the developmental impact of donor-supported occupational safety and health research in developing countries through examining 40 projects supported by one donor (IDRC). Analysis of questionnaires show that donor-supported research projects have a significant impact on strengthening the research capacities of the recipient scientists and research institutions as well as facilitated changes in the policy environment and safety and health practices of occupational groups in developing countries. An effective and broad dissemination of research results and the involvement of stakeholders in the research also contributed positively. (77690)
CIS 01-1658 A comparison of accident experience with quantitative risk assessment (QRA) methodology. Franks A., Hughes G., Hanif S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. viii, 97p. Illus. 51 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-1849-8 (In English) Internet: Quantitative risk assessment (QRA) methodology for industrial process plants was studied and compared with accident theory and accident experience drawn from various accident databases. Analysis of the data indicates that the proportion of accidents occurring when the plant is in some abnormal state may be 40% or more. Maintenance appears to be a particularly frequent abnormal state. It is recommended that maintenance operations be considered in all cases where the QRA is to be used for producing recommendations for risk reduction. Contents of this research report: description of QRA methodology; use of failure data in QRA; uncertainty and quality in QRA; QRA studies; QRA and accident theory; analysis of major accidents based on accident database information. (77751)
CIS 01-1659 Root causes analysis: Literature review. Livingston A.D., Jackson G., Priestley K., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. vi, 53p. Illus. 47 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-1966-4 (In English) Internet: To learn from past failures, organizations need to adopt investigation techniques that explicitly identify root causes of incidents. Root causes analysis is a method designed to help investigators determine what, how and why an incident occurred. There are three key components that need to be present to ensure effective incident investigation: describing the incident sequence and its contributing conditions; identifying the critical events or active failures in the incident sequence; systematically investigating the organizational factors that allowed the active failures to occur. The method selected should specifically facilitate the identification of safety management and organizational inadequacies and the factors that exert control over the design, development, maintenance and review of risk control systems and procedures. (77753)
CIS 01-1660 Identification and management of risk in undergraduate construction courses. Carpenter J., Williams P., Smith N.C., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. x, 53p. Illus. 33 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2148-0 (In English) Internet: This report describes research into the current provision of safety and health teaching in construction related undergraduate courses. The study was made against a growing awareness of the importance of safety and health as part of project risk management and as a means of reducing ill health and accidents. The study shows that the current provision of health and safety teaching is generally poor. It also demonstrates however that academia cannot be expected to deliver alone on this issue. Inconsistency between elements of the industry and a lack of guidance and clarity hinder the efforts that are being made. The study sets out a clear set of recommendations relating to government, accreditation bodies, industry, and academia. (77770)
CIS 01-1661 Fatal occupational accidents 1995-1997 - Statistical analysis after a survey by the factory inspectorate. (German: Tödliche Arbeitsunfälle 1995-1997 - Statistische Analyse nach einer Erhebung der Gewerbeaufsicht) Henter A., Hermanns D., Wittig P., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1999. 111p. Illus. 3 ref. Index., ISBN 3-89701-310-X (In German) Internet: An investigation of fatal occupational accidents for the years 1995-1997 in Germany, excluding mining and road traffic accidents, was conducted. The basis for the statistical analysis is the survey questionnaire for fatal accidents developed by the German Factory Inspectorate and the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. In addition to analysing the causes of accidents in the most affected sectors, the report details the characteristics of the victims and the enterprises, the time of the accident and the type of work. An analysis of accidents involving hazardous substances is presented. Accidents in transportation and construction, which are the two main sectors affected during recent years, are analysed. Statistics are presented by occupation, sector and activity. Proposals are made for improving safety by amending current legislation. (77748)
CIS 01-1662 Industrial health unit - Annual report 2000. University of Natal, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Nelson Mandela School of Medicine, Private Bag 7, Congella 4013, South Africa, 2000. 21p. (In English) Internet: This annual report describes the projects carried out in the year 2000 by the Industrial Health Unit of the University of Natal, South Africa. These projects include: raising awareness in safety and health in the construction industry of the KwaZulu-Natal province; estimating the prevalence of coal worker's pneumoconiosis and the risk of emphysema among South African coal miners; study of hazards in SMEs in the construction industry; education, training and information dissemination. (77705)
CIS 01-1663 Summary reports and proceedings of major conferences on occupational safety and health organized by ILO-Africa and the Inter-African organization for the prevention of occupational hazards (IARPR). (French: Rapports de synthèse et actes des grandes rencontres en santé et sécurité au travail organisées par OIT-Afrique et l'interafricaine de la prévention des risques professionnels (IAPRP)) Kalhoulé T., ed., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2000. 68p. Illus. (In French) Internet: This document includes the summary reports of 4 conferences on occupational safety and health held in Africa: 3rd regional forum of occupational hygiene committees (Cotonou, Benin, 7-11 August 2000); 1st international workshop on occupational medicine and electrical hazards (Abidjan, Ivory Coast, 16-18 August 2000); 3rd symposium on audiovisual media and the prevention of occupational hazards (Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, 26-29 September 2000); 2nd African exhibition on the prevention of occupational hazards (Niamey, Niger, 6-8 November 2000). Resolutions adopted during these events are also included. (77566)
CIS 01-1664 Role of the press, radio and television with respect to the prevention of occupational hazards. (French: Le rôle des médias en matière de prévention des risques professionnels) Kalhoulé T., ed., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. 13p. (In French) Internet: This document is the summary report of a seminar devoted to the role of the press, radio and television in the prevention of occupational hazards held in Niamey, Niger, 27 and 28 August 2000. Participants deplored the lack of interest on the part of the press, radio and television as well as the recalcitrant attitude of certain employers with respect to the prevention of occupational hazards. Recommendations aimed at the national press, radio and television, employers, workers' representatives and the national social security administration are included. (77567)
CIS 01-1665 Strategies of workers' organizations for improving working conditions and the working environment - Definition of the contents of a workers' training programme. (French: Stratégies syndicales d'amélioration des conditions et du milieu de travail - Définition du contenu des programmes d'éducation ouvrière) Kalhoulé T., Mbaye R., eds., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2000. 27p. (In French) Internet: This document is the summary report of a seminar on strategies of workers' organizations for improving working conditions and the working environment, as well as defining the contents of a workers' training programme held in Libreville, Gabon, 26-28 June 2000. It contains the recommendations addressed by the participants to international organizations, employers, governments and the ILO. (77569)
CIS 01-1666 Guide of the Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund. (French: Guide CNA de l'assurance contre les accidents) Suva, Schweizerische Unfallversicherungsanstalt, Abteilung Arbeitsmedizin, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, 4th ed., July 1994. 311p. Illus. (In French) Internet: The objectives of this publication are to provide information on the Swiss accident insurance system in a clear and simple manner. It is aimed at employers, employees and any other organization or person concerned. The first part consists of a commentary on law and on corresponding ordinances in effect in Switzerland, dealing with: insured persons, objectives of the insurance, benefits, occupational safety and health, financing, organization of obligatory insurance, legal recourse, criminal law provisions and accident statistics. Part 2 gives the full text of relevant laws and corresponding ordinances. Appendices include a list of SUVA publications and useful addresses. Replaces CIS 84-1190. (77570)
CIS 01-1667 Occupational safety and health and employability - Programmes, practices and experiences. European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, 2001. 214p. Illus. 7 ref. Price: EUR 13.00 (excluding VAT)., ISBN 92-95007-18-2 (In English) Internet: This report provides an overview of different initiatives in the European Union Member States aimed at increasing the employability of workers by using interventions deriving from the field of occupational safety and health. 26 case studies from 13 Member States illustrate the potential role of occupational safety and health to improve the employability of workers, including prevention programmes and programmes aimed at integrating or reintegrating specific groups to work. Other measures include maintaining a safe and healthy working environment, training and refresher training, assessment of the functional capacities of workers and medical supervision. (77730)
CIS 01-1668 A new impetus for community occupational health policy. European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), 5 bd du Roi Albert II, 1210 Bruxelles, Belgium, June 2001. 44p., ISBN 2-930003-39-1 (In English) Internet: In view of what is perceived to be worsening working conditions for many groups of workers leading to musculoskeletal disorders, stress, burnout and a high accident rate among temporary workers, this report advocates more involvement on the part of the European Union in monitoring working conditions, assessing the compliance with Directives at the Member State level, ensuring the harmonization of safety and health legislation and defining policies. This discussion paper proposes a framework for community-level action aimed at improving occupational safety and health. (77761)
CIS 01-1669 China Safe Work Forum 2000. Bureau of Work Safety, State Economic and Trade Commission, Beijing, China, 2000. 242p. Illus. (In Chinese, English) Internet: Proceedings of a conference on occupational safety held on 6-8 June 2000 in Beijing, China. Topics of the sessions: development of legislation and standards; safety management systems and practice; safety consulting and service; corporate safety management practice; safety case studies in China; safety education and training. (77790)
CIS 01-1670 The IST system - Tool for integrating occupational safety and health management with the operational management of the company. (Spanish: Sistema IST - Herramienta de gestión preventiva integrada a la operación empresarial) León Espinosa I., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. 43p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This document consists of viewgraphs presented at a seminar on occupational safety and health management, describing the system developed by the Instituto de seguridad del trabajo (IST) (see also CIS 01-1671). This seminar, organized by the ILO and held in Asunción, Paraguay, on 21-22 September 2001, covered three topics: strategic issues for Latin American companies faced with globalization and advances in risk management; new challenges in prevention (productivity, quality, safety); characteristics of the various existing occupational safety and health management systems, with particular reference to the IST system. (77815)
CIS 01-1671 Tool for occupational safety and health management aimed at ensuring and continuously improving productivity, quality and safety. (Spanish: Herramienta de gestión preventiva para el aseguramiento y mejoramiento continuo de la productividad, calidad y seguridad) Instituto de Seguridad del Trabajo (IST), Centro de prevención IST, Sede central, Errázuriz 659, Viña del Mar, Chile, 2000. 135p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: The IST system is an occupational safety and health management system aimed at limiting failures, damages and waste. This guide presents the objectives of this system and the different steps of its implementation. The approach consists of identifying 37 areas for which improvements are possible with the help of 330 criteria belonging to the six sub-systems (management, people, equipment, environment, procedures and regulations), and which highlight conditions which must be satisfied. For each of these criteria, the existing situation and the actions required for its improvement are evaluated. Various tools and models are applied for implementing the IST system. Finally, once the system is implemented, it is necessary to monitor its proper functioning through regular audits, and to take corrective action if necessary. (77816)
CIS 01-1672 Evaluation of the European week for safety and health 2000. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. iv, 31p. Illus. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2067-0 (In English) Internet: The report evaluates the organization, working, effectiveness and impact of the European Week for Safety and Health held from 16 to 22 October 2000, on the theme of musculosketelal diseases. It is based on the responses to a questionnaire addressed to the participants, as well on interviews of 163 participants and 38 non-participants. The analysis focussed on the following areas: establishing the degree of participation; profile of the companies that participated; seniority of the respondents and reasons for their participation or non-participation; efficiency of the marketing (how the participants came to know about the European week); effectiveness of the various activities proposed to the participants, and new ideas developed; recommendations for the organization, promotion and operation of future events of this type. (77819)
CIS 01-1673 Enforcement policy statement. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2001. 15p. 2 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet outlines the occupational safety and health enforcement policy of the Health and Safety Commission (HSC). It describes the general objectives of the policy and explains some of its key principles (proportionality, consistency and transparency). Inspection is to be targeted primarily on activities that give rise to the most serious risks. Cases where prosecution is believed appropriate are outlined. Finally, the HSC states that it intends to continue to work towards raising the awareness of courts of the gravity of safety and health offences and encourage them to make full use of their powers. (77733)
CIS 01-1674 Directors' responsibilities for health and safety. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 2001. 11p. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: This guidance note is aimed at board members in both private- and public-sector organizations to help them ensure that safety and health risks arising from their organization's activities are properly managed. It recommends that boards take the following actions: accept formally and publicly their role in providing safety and health leadership; ensure that all their decisions reflect the safety and health policy; recognise their role in engaging active participation of workers in improving safety and health; ensure that they are kept informed of relevant safety and health issues. The legal responsibilities of boards and board members are summarized. (77736)
CIS 01-1675 Health and safety training - What you need to know. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Oct. 2001. 11p. 2 ref. (In English) Internet: United Kingdom law requires that employers provide whatever information, instruction and training needed to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, the safety and health of employees. Contents of this guidance note aimed at employers: categories of workers who require safety and health training; five steps of a training programme (defining needs, defining priorities, choosing methods and resources, delivering the training and checking the effectiveness of the training); legislation; provisions applicable to self-employed contract workers. (77739)
CIS 01-1676 Cost of occupational accidents: Assessment procedure. (Spanish: Costes de los accidentes de trabajo: procedimiento de evaluación) Gil Fisa A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 8p. 4 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Cost-benefit analysis and the implementation of preventive measures can only be undertaken if accurate data on the costs of occupational accidents are available. This information note presents a method for evaluating the cost of an occupational accident and its direct and indirect consequences, as well as a model of the form used for making this evaluation. An example of a calculation based on a practical case is also presented. (77830)
CIS 01-1677 Sensation of heavy legs and prevention of chronic venous insufficiency of the lower extremities. (French: Sensation de jambes lourdes et prévention de l'insuffisance veineuse chronique des membres inférieurs) Roux F., Alcouffe J., Hunzinger E., Segalen M., Manillier P., Montéléon P.Y., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2000, Vol.40, No.3, p.265-276. 11 ref. (In French) Internet: To assess occupational factors aggravating chronic venous insufficiency (CVI, defined by a sensation, even occasional, of heaviness of the legs), 53 occupational physicians carried out an epidemiological survey at the workplace of employees of SMEs in all sectors in the greater Paris region. Air temperature and humidity at the level of the legs of all employees were also measured. Among the 2714 questionnaires received, 1585 were from women (58.4%). The average age of respondents was 37.19. CVI was reported by 577 men (51.2%) and 1174 women (74.4%). Individual factors associated with CVI were female sex, a genetic disposition to heavy legs and cardio-vascular diseases, and the number of pregnancies and miscarriages. Occupational factors included prolonged standing posture, having to walk a lot, having to walk very slowly, being exposed to heat, carrying loads of over 10kg, forward-leaning, crouching and kneeling postures, prolonged sitting postures and not being fully seated. A history of CVI in both parents multiplied the risk by a factor of 6.5. (77561)
CIS 01-1678 Disc and lumbar hernia and work. (French: Hernies discales et lombaires et travail) Araszkiewirz G., Méry B., Tumerelle E., Hoornweg C., Colas des Francs G., Fuks J.J., Derriennic F., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 1999, No.77, p.3-19. 43 ref. (In French) Internet: Undertaken by a group of occupational physicians, this case-control study investigates the relationship between work-induced strain and work organization and occurrences of intervertebral disc hernia (IDH) having required surgery or chemonucleolysis. It involved IDH 201 surgically-confirmed cases between 1995 and 1996 among a population of more than 60,000 workers employed in various occupations, as well as 201 controls. A questionnaire consisting of 124 questions was completed by the occupational physician during an interview. Statistical analysis of the data collected highlights the negative influence of work postures in the incidence of disk hernia, and in particular of postures involving the bending and rotating of the trunk and lifting of loads. Jolts and run-ups in the lifting of loads also show up as risk factors. IDH occurrences appear to be strongly linked to a medical history of lumbar conditions and to starting working life at a young age. (77621)
CIS 01-1679 Developing batteries of tests for evaluating the functional capacity of the upper extremities in a population of workers. (French: Mise au point de batteries de tests pour évaluer les capacités fonctionnelles du membre supérieur d'une population de salariés) Turpin-Legendre E., Meyer J.P., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2000, No.81, p.21-30. Illus. 29 ref. (In French) Internet: The objective of the study was to develop batteries of tests suited for evaluating the functional capacity of upper extremities. Several batteries of tests relevant to the evaluation of the functional capacity of upper extremities of workers were constituted from existing batteries. They were conducted in a laboratory setting for determining their required experimental time and for eliminating those that gave redundant data. The proposed batteries can be used by occupational physicians as part of the regular medical supervision of workers and for detecting drops in functional capacity of upper extremities, which can be considered to be a possible early indicator of musculoskeletal diseases. (77626)
CIS 01-1680 Association of physical activity at work with mortality in Israeli industrial employees: The CORDIS study. Kristal-Boneh E., Harari G., Melamed S., Froom P., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 2000, Vol.42, No.2, p.127-135. Illus. 64 ref. (In English) Internet: To evaluate the association of physical activity at work with the risk of all-cause cardiovascular disease and cancer mortality, a cohort of 3,488 industrial workers in Israel (all male) participated in an 8-year follow-up study. 129 deaths were recorded during this period: 54 from cardiovascular disease, 47 from cancer, and 28 from other causes. Intensity of physical activity at work was assessed on a 4-point scale (none, light, medium, and high). Potential confounding demographic, anthropometric, and socioeconomic variables, and lifestyle factors including leisure-time physical activity were accounted for. The hazard ratio of all-cause mortality in workers with a high physical workload was 1.82 compared with workers having a low workload. A similar trend was noted for cardiovascular disease and cancer mortality. (77632)
CIS 01-1681 Work-related deaths in West Virginia from July 1996 through June 1999: Surveillance, investigation, and prevention. Helmkamp J.C., Lundstrom W.J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 2000, Vol.42, No.2, p.156-162. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation model is used to identify and describe work-related deaths in West Virginia. Through a statewide surveillance network, this model identifies work situations at high risk for fatal injury, investigates selected causes (falls, machinery-related and logging), and formulates and disseminates prevention strategies to reduce the frequency and impact of these accidents. A total of 163 persons died from work-related injuries from July 1996 through June 1999. 93% were male, the mean age was 42, and 80% were West Virginia residents. Fatalities occurred most frequently in the transportation and public utilities (32), manufacturing (24), construction (23), and mining (23) industries. (77633)
CIS 01-1682 Occupational risk factors for renal cell carcinoma in Montreal. Parent M.E., Hua Y., Siemiatycki J., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Dec. 2000, Vol.38, No.6, p.609-618. 55 ref. (In English) Internet: To assess role of workplace exposures on the risk of renal cancer, a case-control study was undertaken involving total of 142 male patients with pathologically confirmed renal cell carcinoma, 1900 controls with cancer at other sites and 533 population-based controls. Detailed job histories and relevant data on potential confounders were obtained, and exposure to 294 reference substances was evaluated. There were indications of excess risks among printers, garden nursery workers, aircraft mechanics, farmers, and horticulturists, as well as in printing-related services, defense services, wholesale trade, and retail trade. The following workplace exposures showed some evidence of excess risk: chromium compounds, chromium (VI) compounds, inorganic acid solutions, butadiene-styrene rubber, ozone, hydrogen sulfide, ultraviolet radiation, hair dust, felt dust, jet engine emissions, jet fuel, aviation gasoline, phosphoric acid and inks. (77634)
CIS 01-1683 Work-related cancer in the Nordic countries. Andersen A., Barlow L., Engeland A., Kjaerheim K., Lynge E., Pukkala E., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, 1999, Vol.25, Suppl.2, p.1-116 (whole issue). Illus. 155 ref. (In English) Internet: This report presents cancer incidence data by occupational group for Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, collected over a 20-year period. The study covers 10 million people aged 25-64. The results are presented as standardized incidence ratios (SIRs). The occupations with the highest SIR values included seamen and workers producing beverages and tobacco. Among women, the SIR values varied from 83 for gardening to 129 for tobacco workers. Almost all pleural cancers were associated with asbestos exposure. Woodworkers had the highest risk of nasal cancer. Lung cancer was the most frequent cancer among men, and tobacco smoking was considered to be the major risk factor for this disease. Exposure to the known hepatocarcinogens, hepatitis B virus and aflatoxins, is rare in the Nordic countries and a large proportion of primary liver cancer can therefore be attributed to alcohol consumption. The risk of colon cancer was related to sedentary work, while the major risk factor for malignant melanoma was exposure to sunlight. (77651)
CIS 01-1684 Environment, life-style and fertility. Bonde J.P., Joffe M., eds., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, 1999, Vol.25, Suppl.1, p.1-80 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Communications presented at the International Symposium on environment, life-style and fertility, held in Aarhus, Denmark, 7-10 December 1997, in conjunction with the final assembly of the European Concerted Action on Occupational Hazards to Male Reproductive Capacity - the Asclepios Project. Besides known factors such as 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP), thalidomide, and diethylstilbestrol (DES), the reproductive system can be vulnerable to other environmental factors and occupational hazards. Main topics covered: methods for obtaining valid data on the time to pregnancy; measuring endocrine profiles of women in field studies; characteristics of fertile menstrual cycles; general psychosocial and work-related stress and reduced fertility; critical aspects of male fertility in the assessment of exposure to lead; time-to-pregnancy and paternal exposure to pesticides (preliminary results of French and Danish studies); semen characteristics after exposure to pesticides among farmers. (77652)
CIS 01-1685 Physical risk factors for neck pain. Ariëns G.A.M., van Mechelen W., Bongers P.M., Bouter L.M., van der Wal G., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 2000, Vol.26, No.1, p.7-19. 56 ref. (In English) Internet: A systematic review of the literature was conducted, identifying physical risk factors for neck pain. Four levels were defined on the basis of the strength of evidence for the relationship between risk factors and neck pain. Altogether, 22 cross-sectional studies, 2 prospective cohort studies and one case-referent study were eligible for determining the level of evidence. The results showed evidence for a positive relationship between neck pain and the duration of sitting and twisting or bending of the trunk. On the basis of a sensitivity analysis, it was concluded that there is evidence for a positive relationship between neck pain and the following risk factors: neck flexion, arm force, arm posture, duration of sitting, twisting or bending of the trunk, hand-arm vibration and workplace design. (77653)
CIS 01-1686 Primary osteoarthrosis of the knee in men and women as a result of lifelong physical load from work. Sandmark H., Hogstedt C., Vingård E., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 2000, Vol.26, No.1, p.20-25. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: In a population-based case-referent study, 625 men and women who had had prosthetic surgery due to primary tibiofemoral oestheoarthrosis (OA) were compared with 548 referents with similar job titles and levels of exposure to physical load at work, during housework and during leisure activities. Male forestry and construction workers, and both male and female farmers ran the highest risk of knee OA. Men had considerably higher exposure to lifting at work, jumps and vibration than women. Exposures to physically demanding tasks at home, such as taking care of an elderly or handicapped person, was associated with knee OA among the women (OR 2.2). Working as a farmer or as a construction worker was associated with the development of knee OA leading to prosthetic surgery. A reduction of high physical load at work and at home could probably lower the risk of knee OA later in life. (77654)
CIS 01-1687 Silicosis and tuberculosis: A proposed radiographic classification of tuberculosis to accompany the ILO international classification of radiographs of pneumoconioses. Solomon A., Rees D., Felix M., Venter E., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July-Sep. 2000, Vol.6, No.3, p.215-219. Illus. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: A significant proportion of workers exposed to silica dust are at risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). The higher the International Labour Organization (ILO) category of silicosis, the greater the TB risk. Subtle radiographic presentations of TB may be the initial manifestation of TB, particularly in the absence of sputum identification of TB bacilli. A proposed TB X-ray-reading form in addition to the ILO categorization of silicosis is offered. The implementation of a standardized TB X-ray reading approach should enable the detection of indolent TB lesions. (77660)
CIS 01-1688 Respiratory diseases related to cereal dust exposure - Study in the region of Sousse, Tunisia. (French: Pathologie respiratoire liée à la poussière de céréales - Etude dans la région de Sousse (Tunisie)) Tabka F., Mrizek N., Tabka Z., Choudat D., Conso F., Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, May 1999, Vol.60, No.2, p.101-106. Illus. 17 ref. (In French) Internet: Dusty environment in cereal and grain processing is known to induce non specific respiratory diseases, cutaneous and oculo-nasal irritation and/or allergy. A cross-sectional study was performed in Tunisia among grain workers to determine the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and lung function impairment. 70 exposed workers to 70 non-exposed subjects matched for age, sex and smoking habits were compared. The prevalence of chronic bronchitis and obstructive impairment was significantly higher in the exposed group (34.3% vs 14.3%, and 47% vs 15%, respectively). Symptoms of bronchial hyperreactivity was found in 30% of the exposed workers. Smoking was a risk factor for chronic bronchitis and lung function impairment in exposed and non-exposed subjects. The study highlights the usefulness of lung function monitoring in the prevention and detection of the effect of dust on the respiratory tract. (77663)
CIS 01-1689 Exposure to benzene, occupational stress and reduced birth weight. Chen D., Cho S.I., Chen C., Wang X., Damokosh A.I., Ryan L., Smith T.J., Christiani D.C., Xu X., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2000, Vol.57, No.10, p.661-667. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: The association between birth weight and exposure to benzene, work stress, and other occupational and environmental hazards was investigated among petrochemical industry workers. 792 pregnant workers were followed up through delivery between May 1996 and December 1998. Exposure to benzene and other solvents was assessed based on job titles and workplace information. Other occupational and environmental exposures and personal information were obtained by interview. Regression models were used to examine the individual and combined associations of occupational and environmental exposures with birth weight. Birth weight was negatively associated with exposure to benzene (-58g) and with work stress (-84g). There was a significant interaction between exposure to benzene and work stress relative to reduced birth weight. Adjusted mean birth weight was 3,445g among those with neither exposure, 3,430g for those with exposure to benzene only, 3,426g for those with work stress only, and 3,262g for those with both exposures. (77672)
CIS 01-1690 Selecting indices of occupational exposure for epidemiologic studies. Loomis D., Salvan A., Kromhout H., Kriebel D., Occupational Hygiene, 1999, Vol.5, No.1, p.73-91. 47 ref. (In English) Internet: Decisions about how best to describe the magnitude or timing of exposure are challenging in almost every epidemiological study because the number of possible representations of any epidemiological relationship is large, but knowledge is limited. This paper seeks to promote a discussion of problems surrounding the selection of indices of exposure for epidemiological studies in occupational health. Five themes are considered: general approaches to selecting exposure indicators; measurement error; exposure-time or latency analysis, dosimetric models, and philosophical issues in exposure-response modeling. It is proposed to focus future research on the properties of measurement error, dosimetric models, and other advanced exposure estimation techniques. A need also exists for more deliberate development of epidemiological theory and an ongoing examination of research methods in relation to goals for science and public health. (77683)
CIS 01-1691 Evaluation of interventions for prevention of back, neck and shoulder disorders in three occupational groups. Leclerc A., Landre M.F., Pietri F., Beaudoin M., David S., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 1997, Vol.3 No.1, p.5-12. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: An epidemiological study was carried out in order to evaluate the effects of prevention programs at the workplace aimed at reducing back, neck, and shoulder morbidity among active workers. The intervention group included 275 workers in three occupational subgroups: hospital workers, warehouse workers, and office workers. The control group included 250 workers as comparable as possible to the intervention group. Comparisons were made according to one-year changes in morbidity scores for low back, upper back, neck, and shoulder disorders separately. An overall measure was also used. The one-year change in the overall measure was significantly different between the intervention group and the control group, indicating a positive effect of the prevention programs. (77689)
CIS 01-1692 Epicutaneous testing in case of suspected work-related contact allergy. (German: Epikutantestung bei Verdacht auf berufsbedingte Kontaktallergie) Geier J., Brehler R., Eck E., Koch P., Peters K.P., Rakoski J., Rothe A., Schnuch A., Szliska C., Uter W., Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, Jan.-Feb. 1999, Vol.47, No.1, p.24-32. 31 ref. (In German) Internet: The German contact allergy group (DKG) gives recommendations for epicutaneous testing in case of suspected occupational contact allergy. It also provides specific guidance on finding suspected allergens for hairdressers and masons. (77698)
CIS 01-1693 Introduction of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) in Germany. (German: Die Einführung der International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) in Deutschland) Schopen M., Bundesgesundheitsblatt - Gesundheitsforschung - Gesundheitsschutz, 1999, Vol.42, No.11, p.827-833. 15 ref. (In German) Internet: The WHO classification of diseases ICD-10 is due to be implemented for morbidity coding in Germany. A German version of ICD-10 will be available in electronic form. The German Institute for Medical Documentation (DIMDI) provides further tools for everyday work with classification and epidemiological research: ICD-10 meta files, ICD conversion tables, ICD-10 thesaurus of diagnostic terms. All these documents can be downloaded free of charge from the DIMDI website. (77749)
CIS 01-1694 Decreased rate of back injuries through a wellness program for offshore petroleum employees. Maniscalco P., Lane R., Welke M., Mitchell J.H., Husting L., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.41, No.9, p.813-820. Illus. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: High rates of injury, particularly those for back injuries, at an offshore petroleum unit were addressed through an intensive occupational hygiene programme initiated in 1991. The number of all types of injuries, including back injuries, decreased between 1991 and 1995. The number of back injuries decreased from nine in 1987 to four in 1992 and zero in 1993. Although there are inadequate data to provide significant results, other criteria suggest a causal relationship. The results are consistent with the few published studies that suggest a decrease in the number of injuries in association with exercise and perhaps with modification of psychosocial risk factors. Calculations suggest a cost savings of over USD 800,000 and a return on investment of USD 2.51 on the dollar. (77646)
CIS 01-1695 Lung function prediction equations derived from healthy South African gold miners. Hnizdo E., Churchyard G., Dowdeswel R., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2000, Vol.57, No.10, p.698-705. Illus. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of the study was to estimate lung function prediction equations and to identify appropriate normal reference values for the population of about 250,000 South African gold miners. Data from a lung function-screening programme conducted at a large South African gold mine from 1994 to 1998 were used to estimate the lung function prediction equations. The prediction equations for forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) were estimated cross-sectionally on 15,772 black and 2,752 white healthy miners. Published reference equations that fitted most closely the observed data, respectively for white miners and black miners, were identified. (77674)
CIS 01-1696 Musculoskeletal dysfunction in physical education teachers. Sandmark H., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2000, Vol.57, No.10, p.673-677. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: To investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among physical education (PE) teachers, a postal questionnaire was sent to 290 men and 281 women who graduated from the PE teaching college in Sweden between the years 1957 and 1965, and to randomly-selected age-matched controls. PE teachers had a higher prevalence ratio (PR) of symptomatic osteoarthrosis (OA) of the knee (men: 2.8; women: 3.2) and knee injury compared with the controls. PE teachers reported more absence from work, and the women had had to change jobs more often because of knee disorders. The prevalence ratio for symptomatic OA of the hip was 2.7 for the female PE teachers. At the age of 25 the body mass index (BMI) of male PE teachers was higher than the male controls, but at an older age both the female and male PE teachers had lower BMI than the controls. Participation in sports activities was considerably higher in the group of PE teachers. They also smoked less and reported fewer serious diseases and better health than the controls. (77673)
CIS 01-1697 Occupational exposure to antineoplastic agents: Self-reported miscarriages and stillbirths among nurses and pharmacists. Valanis B., Vollmer W.M., Steele P., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1999, Vol.41, No.8, p.632-638. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: Antineoplastic agents are mutagenic and teratogenic, with potential effects on reproduction among workers exposed to these agents. This study investigates pregnancy loss associated with occupational exposures to antineoplastic drugs by comparing rates of spontaneous abortion and stillbirths for pregnancies with and without antineoplastic exposure for either parent, before or during pregnancy. A total of 7,094 pregnancies of 2,976 pharmacy and nursing staff were examined. Exposure of the mother to antineoplastic agents during the pregnancy was associated with a significantly increased risk of spontaneous abortion (odds ratio = 1.5) and combined risk of spontaneous abortion and stillbirth (odds ratio = 1.4). Among the wives of exposed men, too few stillbirths occurred to allow analysis. However, for spontaneous abortion and any loss, the patterns of increased risk were similar to those seen for women, although the odds ratios were not statistically significant. (77675)
CIS 01-1698 Occupationally oriented medical rehabilitation and hairdressers' work techniques - A one-and-a-half year follow-up. Arokoski J.P.A., Nevala-Puranen N., Danner R., Halonen M., Tikkanen R., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.43-56. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined changes in work techniques and musculoskeletal symptoms after occupationally oriented medical rehabilitation arranged for 21 female hairdressers who were experiencing neck-shoulder or back pain but were still able to work. Analyses of working postures and questionnaire data were obtained at the beginning of the courses and a year-and-a-half later. The participants worked with their back bent and twisted or their arms at or over shoulder level more seldom at the end of the follow-up than at the beginning of the rehabilitation. Subjective work-related physical and mental strain had decreased by 45.4% and 27.1%, respectively, and subjective neck and back pain by 40.0% and 45.3%, respectively. This study suggests that occupationally oriented rehabilitation can have significant long-lasting effects on the work techniques and subjective well-being of rehabilitated persons. (77803)
CIS 01-1699 Occupational physicians and the prevention of osteoporosis. A study of 110 employees. (French: Le médecin du travail et la prévention de l'ostéoporose. Une étude sur 110 salariés) Fabin C., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2000, Vol.40, No.3, p.285-293. 30 ref. (In French) Internet: In the western world, osteoporosis affects a third of women over the age of 50. The aim of this study was to establish the incidence of osteoporosis among a group of women, to identify risk factors of the condition and to define the profile of women with high bone remodelling. A descriptive epidemiological survey was conducted among 110 female hospital workers aged over 40 without any prior history of osteoporosis and not under hormonal treatment. Interviews were completed with bone densitometry (BD), the determination of FSH and of bone markers (osteocalcine, alkaline bone phosphatase, cross-laps and deoxypyridinoline). Results show that over a third of women over 40 are osteopenic or osteoporotic. Prevention of osteoporosis concerns all women, and should be started early. High levels of osteocalcine and cross-laps may be predictive indicators of osteoporosis. Occupational physicians should stress the importance of healthy lifestyles, calcium consumption, the usefulness of early BD among non-treated women and provide information on treatment. (77563)
CIS 01-1700 Job-related travel abroad: What demands, what answers?. (French: Déplacements professionnels à l'étranger: quelles exigences, quelles réponses?) Biardeau B., Mullender N., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2000, Vol.40, No.1, p.33-38. 15 ref. (In French) Internet: With the globalization of markets, an ever increasing number of companies need to send their employees abroad for short or long periods, often to parts of the world with serious health risks. In such cases, the occupational physician is often consulted for the prevention of travel-linked diseases. His or her role is to inform and advise the employee about to embark on a trip, depending on the risks linked to the assignment (destination country, living conditions, length of stay). The occupational physician has access to numerous sources of information, in particular the medical press, information systems and the Internet. (77794)
CIS 01-1701 Cardiovascular dysfunction due to shift work. Murata K., Yano E., Shinozaki T., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.41, No.9, p.748-753. Illus. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: Electrocardiographic, biochemical and physical data obtained from 237 shift workers and 115 day workers without any obvious disorders were assessed to clarify the impact of shift work on cardiovascular functions. The heart-rate corrected QT interval (QTc) was significantly longer in the shift workers than in the day workers. However, blood pressure, working duration and biochemical and other data were comparable between the two work groups. When multiple regression analysis was used, the mode of work (shift or day) was significantly related to the QTc in all of the workers. The adjusted odds ratio of shift work to the prolonged QTc (≥440ms1/2) was 8.15. The prolonged QTc has been thought to contribute to an increased risk of cardiac death. These findings, therefore, suggest that the increased risk for cardiovascular mortality in shift workers may be attributable to prolongation of the QTc. (77641)
CIS 01-1702 Physical inactivity and other health risks among Australian males in less-skilled occupations. Veitch J., Salmon J., Clavisi O., Owen N., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.41, No.9, p.794-798. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: Male workers in less-skilled occupations have higher rates of cardiovascular disease, compared with higher-skilled workers. A representative population sample of Australian male workers (711) was used to compare physical activity levels and selected cardiovascular disease risk factors in less-skilled (134) versus professional and skilled workers (577). Workers in the less-skilled occupational categories reported significantly more vigorous work and home-based activity than did those in the professional and skilled categories. A logistic regression analysis showed that smoking was the only predictive factor of being a less-skilled worker. Although worksites can potentially provide health-promoting physical activity options for higher-risk groups, our findings suggest that smoking and possibly excess weight are risk factors that are more strongly present in less-skilled occupations. (77644)
CIS 01-1703 Fertility, pregnancy and occupational hazards. (French: Fécondité, grossesse et risques professionnels) Leprince A., Falcy M., Le Bâcle C., Meyer J.P., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 1999, No.77, p.21-33. (In French) Internet: This article consists of the highlights of papers presented during a one-day seminar on occupational hazards for fertility and pregnancy held in Strasbourg (France) on 24 June 1998. Topics covered include: occupational hazards from conception to puberty; managing chemical hazards in the enterprise; other hazards (teratogenic effects of ionizing radiation, infectious diseases, physical and mental strain); description of the collaboration between the French National Research and Safety Institute (INRS) and the information centre on teratogenic agents as an example of preventive vigilance. (77622)
CIS 01-1704 Frequencies of diseases presenting to general practitioners according to patients' occupation. Soutar C.A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. vi, 41p. 17 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2016-6 (In English) Internet: General practitioner morbidity recording schemes offer an opportunity to describe the frequencies of a wide range of conditions. The aim of the study was to examine the feasibility of assembling information nationally, on the frequency and distribution of ill-health seen by general practitioners, in relation to occupation. The study showed that none of the schemes routinely record occupation, but additional procedures to obtain this information are feasible. Together, the four main ongoing schemes can provide a population of sufficient size to detect differences in frequency of ill-health between most occupations. The procedures and data collection are sufficiently comparable to allow the results to be aggregated in some way. Possible study designs are discussed. The main ethical concern is that there should be no possibility of identification of individual subjects, and methods of satisfying this requirement are suggested. (77702)
CIS 01-1705 Designing, translating and validating questionnaires - The example of EUROQUEST. (French: Concevoir, traduire et valider un questionnaire - A propos d'un exemple, EUROQUEST) Bouletreau A., Chouanière D., Wild P., Fontana J.M., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, May 1999. 45p. 39 ref. (In French) Internet: Questionnaires have long been used in social science as a tool for gathering information. The objective of this study was to inventory current understanding in psychosocial science and epidemiology in the area of creating, translating and evaluating questionnaires, analysing differences and possibilities of transfer between disciplines and proposing an approach for evaluating questionnaires applicable to epidemiology. This approach was then applied to EUROQUEST, a questionnaire designed for evaluating neurotoxic symptoms. Although the design and evaluation of questionnaires used in the biomedical area can benefit from knowledge in social sciences, some adaptation is necessary. In particular, classical validation methods may be inadequate, as was the case for EUROQUEST. It is therefore necessary to use other methods suited to each situation, and consequently difficult to standardize. (77798)
CIS 01-1706 The prevalence of occupational dermatitis amongst printers in the Midlands. Livesley E., Rushton L., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. vi, 74p. Illus. 33 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-1900-1 (In English) Internet: The objectives of this project were to quantify the extent of dermatitis in the printing industry, identify links between dermatitis and particular processes and activities, and to formulate proposals for reducing occupational dermatitis in this industry. Questionnaires were addressed to 2,600 workers in the graphics, paper and media sector, with a response rate of 62%, 41% of whom reported a skin complaint at some time and 26% a current skin problem on the hand. Prevalence was highest among persons involved in printing (49%). 45 subjects with self-reported current dermatitis and 60 controls were subjected to medical examination. It was estimated that for 26 (68%) cases, irritant contact dermatitis was caused by occupational factors. It was also found that many existing guidelines were not being properly implemented within the printing industry. (77809)
CIS 01-1707 The importance of industrial physicians in modern health policies. (German: Die Bedeutung von Betriebsärzten in einer modernen betrieblichen Gesundheitspolitik) Rosenbrock R., Lenhardt U., Bertelsmann Stiftung, Gütersloh, Germany, 1999. 101p. Illus. 86 ref., ISBN 3-89204-281-0 (In German) Internet: This publication discusses the role of the occupational physician in the context of a modern industrial hygiene policy. Topics covered include: definition of a modern industrial hygiene policy; advantages for the company of having an occupational safety and health policy; tasks that need to be carried out by occupational physicians and their level of qualification according to German legislation; description of the eight key constituents of the profile of a modern occupational physician. (77580)
CIS 01-1708 Questions concerning the medical supervision of workers. (Spanish: Cuestiones relativas a la vigilancia de la salud de los trabajadores) García del Moral Betzen G., Manzano Sanz F., Editorial Aranzadi SA, Ctra. de Aoiz, Km 3,5, 31488886 Elcano, Navarra, Spain, 2000. No.4, 24p. (In Spanish) Internet: This booklet reviews legal questions concerning the medical supervision of workers. Companies have a legal obligation to ensure regular supervision of their workers taking into account the hazards inherent to the work, but not to explicitly guarantee their health. The company must adopt preventive measures to limit risk factors. The confidentiality of the data regarding workers' health must also be respected. Companies are required to use the services of occupational health specialists, both for medical supervision and for the prevention of hazards. The booklet also addresses the question of the training of these specialists, who are currently insufficient in number. (77814)
CIS 01-1709 Work-related - Procedure to adopt. (French: Eczéma d'origine professionnelle - Conduite à tenir) Crépy M.N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 1999, No.77, p.43-48. 12 ref. (In French) Internet: This information sheet proposes an approach for occupational physicians confronted with cases of eczema possibly due to occupational factors. Contents include: epidemiology; diagnosis at the place of work (medical history, clinical examination, aetiological diagnosis); diagnosis in specialized facilities (patch tests, other skin tests, spot tests); prognosis; prevention (substitution of allergens, hygiene, skin protection); workers' compensation. (77624)
CIS 01-1710 First aid: fractures, dislocations and sprains. (Spanish: Primeros auxilios: fracturas, luxaciones y esguinces) Moliné Marco J.L., Solé Gómez M.D., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 5p. Illus. 4 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note describes the signs and symptoms of fractures, dislocations and sprains and corresponding appropriate first aid. Contents: description of the osteo-muscular system; osteoarticular lesions (open or closed fractures); skull fractures; spinal column lesions; dislocations and sprains. (77586)
CIS 01-1711 Lung cancer risk in iron and steel foundry workers: A nested case-control study in Asturias, Spain. Rodrígez V., Tardón A., Kogevinas M., Prieto C.S., Cueto A., García M., Menéndez I.A., Zaplana J., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Dec. 2000, Vol.38, No.6, p.644-650. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: To examine the risk of lung cancer among iron and steel workers, a nested case-control study was conducted involving 144 male lung cancer cases and 558 controls, selected from a study base of 24,400 workers employed in a large foundry between 1952 and 1995. Workers were, on an average, heavy smokers and a very strong relation was observed for smoking (OR for "ever smoker" = 32.4). Workers having ever been employed in the blast furnace had an excess lung cancer risk (OR = 2.55) compared to a reference group of workers not employed in metal producing departments. A similar excess was observed for workers having their longest held job in the blast furnace. A two-fold risk was also observed for workers in the main foundry. A high risk was observed for workers employed in departments with high exposure to crystalline silica, PAHs, and various other carcinogenic chemicals. (77636)
CIS 01-1712 Fatal harmful substances or environmental exposures in agriculture, 1992 to 1996. Adekoya N., Myers J.R., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1999, Vol.41, No.8, p.699-705. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: Data from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries surveillance system from 1992 through 1996 were analysed to allow a better understanding of exposures to harmful substances or environments that resulted in agricultural work fatalities. There were 357 fatalities as a result of these exposures in the agriculture production and agriculture services sectors, representing 10% of all work-related deaths that occurred in these industry sectors during this period. Contact with electric current represented 52.9% of these fatalities. Agricultural services reported 87 electrocutions, 50 of which occurred among tree trimmers. The events most likely to result in fatalities were contact with overhead power lines (26.3%) and drowning (17.1 %). The overall fatality rate was 2.1 deaths per 100,000 workers. The development of appropriate hazard-awareness training for workers may help prevent future deaths in these industry sectors. (77679)
CIS 01-1713 Spray-gun painting and car body repair-shop work: What surveillance?. (French: Peintres au pistolet et carrossiers, quelle surveillance?) Andrieu F., Guinel P., Ichou O., Knab A., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2001, Vol.41, No.1, p.13-30. Illus. 14 ref. (In French) Internet: The objective of this field study was to evaluate exposure hazards among spray-gun painters and body-repair-shop workers and to recommend appropriate medical surveillance. Ten garages, including four for trucks, were studied with respect to noise, working postures, workers' heart rate and the presence of chemicals (safety data sheets, ambient air analysis, determinations in urine). Results show that both categories of workers are exposed to noise and are subject to important postural, musculoskeletal and cardiac constraints, particularly in the case of garages for trucks. They are also both constantly exposed to atmospheric pollutants (solvents, thermal degradation products). Finally, the exposure of spray gun painters to isocyanates does not appear to be a problem if personal protective equipment is used. (77668)
CIS 01-1714 An occupational cohort mortality study of women in the German rubber industry: 1976 to 1991. Mundt K.A., Weiland S.K., Bucher A.M., Straif K., Werner B., Chambless L., Keil U., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.41, No.9, p.807-812. 36 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, patterns of mortality are studied among 2,871 women employed in one of five German rubber plants for at least 1 year on or after 1 January 1976, and observed through 31 December 1991. Mortality for all causes was close to expected (standardized mortality ratio (SMR)=101), but cancer mortality was lower than expected (SMR=90). Nevertheless, excesses were observed for mortality from stomach cancer (SMR=156), lung cancer (SMR=140), and lymphatic system cancers (SMR=175). Stronger associations were observed among sub-cohorts defined by time period hired. Despite the limited numbers of deaths, modest excesses of mortality due to specific cancers were observed and are consistent with previous studies. (77645)
CIS 01-1715 Occupational skin diseases of hairdressers. (French: Dermatoses professionnelles des coiffeurs) Crepy M.N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2000, No.81, p.61-68. Illus. 77 ref. (In French) Internet: Occupational skin diseases affecting hairdressers are frequent, appear precociously and are often wrongly diagnosed. Contents of this information note on occupational allergy and dermatology: epidemiology; causative factors (occupational risk factors, endogenous factors); diagnosis at the place of work (clinical forms, differential diagnosis, inspection of the workplace, spot tests); confirmation of the diagnostic in a specialised facilities (allergy studies of eczema and contact urticaria); prognosis; prevention; workers' compensation. (77630)
CIS 01-1716 Gender inequalities in occupational health. Östlin P., Working Paper Series, Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies, 9 Bow Street, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA, Sep. 2000. 18p. Illus. 68 ref. (In English) Internet: The existence of highly gender-segregated occupations is responsible for differential exposures of men and women at work to health-damaging factors. This paper describes how gender inequalities in occupational health may be linked to the gender division of labour in both low- and high-income countries. Contents: general effect of work on health; gender segregation in labour; gender and work-related health risks; proposals, policies and areas for further research. (77789)
CIS 01-1717 Protective clothing in potteries. Dyson H.M., Johnson D.J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 1999. iv, 85p. Illus. 6 ref. Price: GBP 60.00., ISBN 0-7176-1694-0 (In English) Internet: Evaluation of dust protection, wear and comfort was carried on polyester fabrics used in protective clothing for pottery workers. The most commonly used fabric had good mechanical properties and moderate moisture transmission (MVT), but was very uncomfortable. Before use, the fabric had acceptable dust protection properties; however, after a minimal number of laundering cycles, the particle exclusion efficiency deteriorated significantly. Six alternative fabrics were evaluated as possible replacements. All had improved dust exclusion properties, especially after laundering, and much higher MVTs. In factory trials, all fabrics showed improved comfort. Parameters evaluated for the measurement of comfort, particularly water vapour concentration both within and outside the protective garment, were compared with subjective tests and recommendations for suitable alternative fabrics were made. (77640)
CIS 01-1718 Health and safety in the mining sector: Strategies and action of workers' organizations. (French: Santé et sécurité dans les mines: stratégies et actions des organisations de travailleurs) Kalhoulé T., M'Baye R., eds., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2000. 26p. (In French) Internet: This document is the summary report of a seminar devoted to safety and health in the mining sector held in Monda, Gabon, 17-19 April 2000. Working groups assessed the current situation with respect to safety and health in the mining industry, and make recommendations aimed at the government, employers, the ILO and industry organizations. (77568)
CIS 01-1719 Annual Report 2000. Department of Minerals and Energy, Private Bag X 59, Pretoria 0001, South Africa, 26 Feb. 2001. iv, 108p. Illus. (In English) Internet: The fatality and reportable injury rate in the South African mining industry declined during the year 2000, continuing the 16-year general downward trend, and currently stands at 0.71 and 12.72 per thousand workers, respectively. Hearing loss, tuberculosis and silicosis are the major occupational health concerns. Other topics covered in this annual report: mine safety and health reports, safety and health surveys, safety and health equipment, management involvement and internal control, and regional reports, including safety and health reviews, inspections, audits, compliance with legislation, penalties and hazard evaluation. (77723)
CIS 01-1720 SIMRAC Annual Report 1999/2000. Safety in Mines Research Advisory Committee (SIMRAC), SIMPROSS (SIMRAC Project Support Services), Private Bag X 63, Braamfontein 2107, South Africa, 2000. 37p. Illus. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: Contents of this annual report include: technology transfer highlights; mining industry safety statistics, including fatality and injury rates broken down by gold, coal, platinum and other sectors; description of current research projects under the headings gold and platinum, coal, generic mining and health; annual financial statements for the year ending 31 March 2000. See also CIS 01-1739 and CIS 01-1740. (77727)
CIS 01-1721 Report on the construction sector. (Spanish: Informe sobre el sector de la construcción) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 173p. 13 ref., ISBN 84-7425-582-1 (In Spanish) Internet: This report presents an analysis of the construction sector. Contents include: socio-economic data, working conditions, occupational accidents, occupational diseases, statistical trends. The appendix includes 49 tables presenting accident statistics by type of accident, type of injury, geographical region, month, day of the week, time of the day and material or equipment used. (77828)
CIS 01-1722 Approach for integrating safety during the design of semi-automatic woodworking machines applied to the development of a system for the catchment of dust of numerically-controlled router. (French: Vers une démarche d'intégration de la sécurité à la conception des machines à bois semi-automatisées - Application au développement d'un système de captage des poussières pour défonceuse à commande numérique) Jouffroy D., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 1999. 182p. Illus. 103 ref. (In French) Internet: Notwithstanding their degree of automation, automated woodworking machines do present risks for operators working in their proximity. This study presents a design approach aimed at integrating hygiene, safety and ergonomic principles as early as possible in the development cycle of these machines. This process, developed within a framework of concurrent engineering, is based on a distributed design method. The usefulness of the approach is assessed in a practical application, the development of a catchment system for a numerically-controlled router. After validation, the efficiency of the designed device is improved compared to the initial device. (77797)
CIS 01-1723 Working conditions and integration of handicapped workers. (Spanish: Las condiciones de trabajo en la integración de minusválidos) Sancho Figueroa T., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2001. 87p. Illus. 77 ref., ISBN 84-7425-578-3 (In Spanish) Internet: This report presents the results of a survey of working conditions in centres employing mentally handicapped persons. The responses to a questionnaire aimed at evaluating physical, mental, perceptual-motor, social and personal factors related to workplaces of mentally handicapped workers are compared with the results of a national survey of working conditions in Spain. The advantages of new technologies applied to systems aimed at improving the performance of the handicapped worker as well as those of new information and process control technologies are discussed. (77825)
CIS 01-1724 Employers' organizations and safety and health systems in the company. (Spanish: Las organizaciones empresariales y los sistemas de seguridad e higiene en las empresas) Briscoe T., López-Valcárcel A., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. 72p. 4 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This publication presents two articles on the topic of the development by employers' organizations of a safety and health service for their member companies. The first article discusses the need for developing such a service and presents the example of IBEC, an Irish employers' organization which has implemented such a service for its affiliates (see also CIS 01-1725). The second article discusses the national occupational safety and health (OSH) system and the role of employers' organizations, as well as the different levels where they can contribute in the area of OSH (problem analysis, definition of OSH criteria, setting-up of an OSH service for their members, lobbying of government bodies, workers' organizations, NGOs and at the international level). (77811)
CIS 01-1725 Developing and establishing an occupational safety and health service in an employers' organisation - A practical guide and training programme for small or developing employers' organisations. Briscoe T., Bureau for Employers' Activities, ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1998. 239p. Illus (In English) Internet: This report discusses how to prepare and implement an occupational safety and health service within an employers' organization (see also CIS 01-1724). This approach requires a prior analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis). The experience of IEBC, an Irish employers' organization which has set up a service of this type for its affiliated companies, is presented, as well as a training programme for managers of employers' organizations that wish to set up an occupational safety and health service for their members. (77812)
CIS 01-1726 Warehouse keeping. (French: Magasinier) Jardinier P., Mauboussin J., Mora V., Szyjka A., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2001, Vol.41, No.1. 2p. Insert. 6 ref. (In French) Internet: Contents of this occupational information sheet on warehouse keepers: definition; characteristics of the occupation; description of activities (workplaces, tools and equipment, products and materials, movements and postures, clothing and personal protective equipment); risks and stresses of the job (due to the physical workload, the equipment, products handled, the environment, the working hours and the mental workload); occupational diseases and accidents; prevention of hazards (collective, personal, OSH measures, first-aid measures); regulations applicable in France; aptitude testing (condition of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and neuro-sensorial systems). (77670)
CIS 01-1727 Agents toxic for female reproduction. (Spanish: Tóxicos para la reproducción femenina) Guardino Solá X, Santolaya Martínez C, Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 7p. 6 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note summarizes information concerning the reproductive effects of toxic agents on exposed women, together with corresponding preventive measures. Contents: description of the female reproductive system and menstrual cycle; possible health effects (effects on the menstrual cycle, sterility, abortion and still-born children, newborn child malformations, low birth weight and premature delivery, child developmental problems and child cancer); agents that present reproductive hazards (table of chemical, physical and biological agents); classification criteria for substances and preparations that are toxic for reproduction or the offspring, in particular during breast feeding; legislation on the protection of pregnant and breast-feeding women; recommendations with respect to occupational hygiene. (77582)
CIS 01-1728 Guidance and information on escape from mines. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. iv, 48p. lllus. 6 ref. Price: GBP 9.00., ISBN 0-7176-2006-9 (In English) Internet: Aimed primarily at mine managers and mine owners, this booklet contains guidance on escape from mines in an emergency. It explains how to develop emergency plans. Contents include: legislation in the United Kingdom, in particular the Escape and Rescue from Mines Regulations 1995 (see CIS 96-711) and the Mines (Safety of Exit) Regulations (see CIS 89-1234); emergency planning; arrangements for escape; self-rescuers and safe havens. Appendices include: examples of emergency planning forms; mine escape practices in Germany, France, the United States and South Africa; descriptions of escape incidents; results of tests of self-rescuers; effective arrangements for rescue; other relevant legislation. (77703)
CIS 01-1729 Aide mémoire for the compilation of guidelines for codes of practice. Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate, Department of Minerals and Energy, Private Bag X 59, Pretoria 0001, South Africa, 2001. 16p. Illus., ISBN 0-9584360-3-7 (In English) Internet: The South African Mines Health and Safety Act (MHSA) requires employers to prepare and implement a code of practice (COP) on any matter affecting the safety and health of employees. These COPs must comply with official guidelines. This document has been compiled to assist working groups of various South African bodies including the Department for Minerals and Energy (DME), the Mining Occupational Health Advisory Committee (MOHAC) and the Mining Regulations Advisory Committee (MRAC) produce code of practice guidelines in a standard format. (77724)
CIS 01-1730 Guideline for the compilation of a mandatory code of practice on mine residue deposits. Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate, Department of Minerals and Energy, Private Bag X 59, Pretoria 0001, South Africa, 2001. 23p. 9 ref., ISBN 0-9584360-4-5 (In English) Internet: Mine residue deposits (MRDs) constitute a potential pollution and flow failure hazard, with possible health hazards, injury or loss of life. The South African Mines Health and Safety Act (MHSA) requires employers to prepare and implement a code of practice (COP) on any matter affecting the safety and health of employees. These COPs must comply with official guidelines. This document has been compiled to assist employers in the mining industry prepare a COP covering site selection, design, construction, operation, maintenance, modification and decommissioning of MRDs. (77726)
CIS 01-1731 Health and safety in construction. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Rev.ed., 2001. vi, 134p. Illus. 76 ref. Price: GBP 9.95., ISBN 0-7176-2106-5 (In English) Internet: This booklet provides practical guidance on the identification and control of hazards in the construction industry. Contents: organizing the construction site (planning the work, organizing the work, welfare facilities, control and supervision, notification requirements, inspections); working at heights; excavations and underground services; work in confined spaces; prevention of drowning; moving, lifting and handling loads; site vehicles and mobile plant; health hazards (hazardous substances and processes, noise and vibration); protective equipment; electrical safety; work affecting the public; health and safety management and the law. Replaces CIS 97-143. (77782)
CIS 01-1732 Managing health and safety in construction - Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. vi, 102p. lllus. 49 ref. Price: GBP 9.50., ISBN 0-7176-2139-1 (In English) Internet: This document contains guidance on compliance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 (CDM, see CIS 95-13). It is an update of the version analysed under CIS 95-1371, which takes into account the requirements of the Management of Safety and Health at Work Regulations 1999 (see CIS 00-403). Responsibilities of the client, the designer, the planning supervisor and the contractors during the various stages of a construction project are described: concept and feasibility; design and planning; tender and selection stage; construction phase; commissioning and handover. Duties include: provision of information; identification of health and safety hazards; risk control; ensuring that health and safety training is carried out; monitoring health and safety performance. Appendices include the CDM regulations, extracts from the Management of Safety and Health at Work Regulations 1999, a glossary and guidance on the preparation of the health and safety plan and the health and safety file. (77785)
CIS 01-1733 Agreement on the measures to be adopted to ensure safety and health during construction work. (French: Convention concernant les mesures pour garantir la sécurité et la protection de la santé dans les travaux de construction; German: Vereinbarung über die Gewährleistung der Sicherheit und des Gesundheitsschutzes während der Ausführung von Bauarbeiten; Italian: Convenzione per garantire la sicurezza sul lavoro e la tutela della salute durante i lavori di costruzione) Suva, Arbeitssicherheit, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, 2nd ed., Switzerland, 2001. 6p. Illus. (In French, German, Italian) Internet: According to the provisions of article 3.2 of the new Swiss ordinance on construction work effective in 2000, the contractor and the owner of the building or its representative must agree, in writing, on the measures to be implemented for ensuring safety and health. In order to provide guidance to all parties involved, SUVA has prepared, with the participation of the Swiss contractors' federation and trade unions, a standard agreement which lists all measures that need to be taken to satisfy legal requirements. The main points covered in the agreement: general aspects of construction site safety (access, signalling, lighting, accommodation and sanitary facilities, emergency organization); workplaces, passageways and protection against falls; existing installations, service piping and the environment; work on roofs; scaffolding. (77820)
CIS 01-1734 Health and safety in care homes. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. iv, 60p. Illus. 66 ref. Price: GBP 8.50., ISBN 0-7176-2082-4 (In English) Internet: This booklet is aimed at owners, managers and employees of care institutions such as hospitals, nursing homes, specialized institutions for handicapped persons or persons undergoing rehabilitation programmes and residential care homes owned by local authorities. Its purpose is to help them understand and meet their duties under current safety and health legislation. Contents: legal framework; managing health and safety; reporting of incidents; first aid; hazardous substances; control of infection; patient handling; aggression and violence to staff; work-related stress; legionellosis; utilities (gas and electricity); asbestos; general working environment; health and safety in the kitchen, the laundry and outdoors. (77757)
CIS 01-1735 Managing health and safety aspects of research in higher and further education. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. iv, 20p. 21 ref. Price: GBP 7.95., ISBN 0-7176-1300-3 (In English) Internet: Health and safety legislation in the United Kingdom also applies to research work in higher education and training institutions, and as is the case for industry, employers have the prime responsibility for ensuring compliance with the law. This guidance is designed to help all persons involved in research work in higher education institutions to understand their responsibilities. Contents: employer's role; departmental head's role; supervisor's role; research worker's role; advice from occupational safety and health specialists. Examples of the implementation of safety and health measures at the psychology department and the chemistry department of universities are presented. (77758)
CIS 01-1736 Traffic hazards to fire fighters while working along roadways. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, June 2001. 4p. Illus. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: The number of fire fighters struck and killed by motor vehicles has dramatically increased within recent years. From 1995 to 1999, 17 fire fighters were killed by motorists in the United States, which represents a 89% increase compared to the previous 5-year period. Contents of this information note on traffic hazards to fire fighters while working along roadways: risk factors; description of two accident cases; measures to be implemented by fire departments and fire fighters to prevent these types of accident. (77777)
CIS 01-1737 Risk prevention in the laboratory: location and layout. (Spanish: Prevención de riesgos en el laboratorio: ubicación y distribución) Gadea Varrera E., Guardino Solá X., Rossel M.G., Silva Alonso J.V., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 5p. Illus. 4 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note emphasises the importance of the proper location and equipment of laboratories for ensuring adequate protection of workers. Contents: legislation and regulations; laboratory design; fire protection and fire resistance; location of laboratories within buildings; advantages and disadvantages of alternative locations of laboratories within a building; layout and equipment of different halls as a function of the risks inherent to the products being handled (chemicals, pressurized gases, biological or physical agents) and the tasks being carried out. (77590)
CIS 01-1738 Homeworking. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 1997. 12p. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet is aimed at both employees working out of home and their employers. Contents include: legal responsibilities of employers, including the need to carry our a risk assessment; common hazards associated with working out of home; special provisions for new or expectant mothers; safety representatives; applicable provisions of the Trade Union Reform and Employment Act 1993 and the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR 1995, see CIS 95-1930); role of safety and health inspectors. (77734)
CIS 01-1739 SIMRAC Volume One - Final Project Reports 1994-1996. Safety in Mines Research Advisory Committee (SIMRAC), SIMPROSS (SIMRAC Project Support Services), Private Bag X 63, Braamfontein 2107, South Africa, no date. CD-ROM requiring Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT or higher. Includes Acrobat Reader 4.0 and Winzip. 1999. (In English) Internet: CD-ROM containing general information on the Safety in Mines Research Advisory Committee (SIMRAC) as well as over 80 research reports on occupational safety and health in the mining industry in South Africa, grouped under the headings of coal, gold and platinum, health, and general reports. See also CIS 01-1740. (77721)
CIS 01-1740 SIMRAC CD Vol.2. Safety in Mines Research Advisory Committee (SIMRAC), SIMPROSS (SIMRAC Project Support Services), Private Bag X 63, Braamfontein 2107, South Africa, Jan. 2001. CD-ROM requiring Windows. (In English) Internet: CD-ROMs containing general information on the Safety in Mines Research Advisory Committee (SIMRAC), the annual report for 1999/2000 (see CIS 01-1720), news items on forthcoming events and publications, links to the SIMRAC website and close to 80 research reports on occupational safety and health in the mining industry in South Africa grouped under the headings of general, coal, gold and platinum, health, and other; these are in addition to those already published in the CD-ROM entitled "SIMRAC Volume One" (see CIS 01-1739); reports due to be published soon are also cited. (77722)
CIS 01-1741 Can modern dust reduction technologies ensure that wood dust emissions at workplaces in Germany comply with the current limit value in all cases?. (German: Ist der deutsche Luftgrenzwert für Holzstaub mit einer fortschrittlichen Staubminderungstechnik in der Praxis überall einzuhalten?) Detering B., Heimann M., Möcklinghoff K., Müller L., Poppe M., Wüstefeld B., Wolf J., Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.59, No.11-12, p.419-427. Illus. 11 ref. (In German) Internet: In Germany, the limit value for wood dust in air at the workplace has been set at 2mg/m3. However, a limit of 5mg/m3 is tolerated for certain types of activity appearing on what is known as the "negative list". In the context of the current revision of this list, a series of measurements of dust concentrations was carried out in various selected woodworking occupations. They showed that the limit value of 2mg/m3 could not be complied with in certain cases, in particular during work on double circular chainsaws without clutches, table milling machines, copy milling machines, wood lathes, wheel stands, rod polishing machines, particleboard shredders, manual circular saws, as well as at manual sanding and assembly workplaces. (77573)
CIS 01-1742 Environmental tobacco smoke - Determining the exposure to hazardous substances for assessing the risk to health from passive smoking. (German: Tabakrauch in der Raumluft - Erfassung der Schadstoffbelastung durch Passivrauchen zur Bewertung des gesundheitlichen Risikos) Scherer G., Adlkofer F., Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.59, No.11-12, p.435-443. Illus. 109 ref. (In German) Internet: Cigarette smoke in ambient air consists mostly of smoke generated by the incandescent cone or exhaled by smokers. The physical, chemical and toxicological properties of these two constituents are considerably different. For this reason, the evaluation of the risk linked to the exposure to tobacco smoke must be carried out on the basis of the various substances present in the smoke. Several detection methods have been developed and validated. The examination of the weighted average values of the various harmful substances contained in cigarette smoke in ambient air show that the exposure of non-smokers to toxic and genotoxic substances contained in cigarette smoke is relatively low. This hypothesis is validated by monitoring of nitrosamine and its metabolites in the biological liquids of passive smokers. (77574)
CIS 01-1743 Guidelines for the analysis of mineral fibres in biological samples. (French: Recommandations pour l'analyse des fibres minérales dans les échantillons biologiques) De Vuyst P., Karjalainen A., Dumortier P., Monsó E., Brochard P., Teschler H., Tossavainen A., Gibbs A., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2000, No.81, p.3-19. Illus. 53 ref. (In French) Internet: This article consists of guidelines of a pan-European working group with respect to the methodology for counting asbestos fibres in biological samples through optical microscopy, so as to ensure good practice and reliability of results among laboratories carrying out these analyses. Contents include: definition of control populations and reference levels; sampling; methods of preparation and analysis; asbestos fibres in the lung parenchyma during various stages of asbestos-related diseases; asbestos bodies in lung parenchyma, brochoalveolar lavage liquid and expectoration; presence of fibres and asbestosic bodies in biological samples. (77625)
CIS 01-1744 Past occupational exposure to asbestos among men in France. Golbderg M., Banaei A., Goldberg S., Auvert B., Luce D., Guéguen A., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 2000, Vol.26, No.1, p.52-61. Illus. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: The purpose of this study was to reconstruct changes in the frequency and levels of occupational asbestos exposure in France over the past century. Work histories were collected during 11 population-based case-referent studies and an asbestos-specific job-exposure matrix including 10,625 jobs was used to estimate indices of past occupational asbestos exposure. The highest proportion of exposed subjects was found between 1950 and 1980. For each age class born between 1900 and 1939, the proportion exposed at least once by 60 years of age ranged from 18.2% to 24.5%. A population exposure index showed that the heaviest exposure occurred between 1960 and 1970 and that the age classes born between 1920 and 1929 were the most heavily exposed. The data from this study are being used to forecast the development of male mortality from mesothelioma in France. (77656)
CIS 01-1745 Criteria for the identification of insulation wool fibres by microscopic evaluation of filter samples. Draeger U., Teichert U., Schneider T., Trappmann J., Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Sep. 1998, Vol.58, No.9, p.343-346. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: To investigate respirable fibre concentrations at workplaces as well as in indoor air, the most frequent criterion applied is the one of chemical composition. Morphological criteria are rarely taken into account. The results of this investigation show that it is generally justified to assume that insulation wool fibres fulfil the criterion of parallel edges. This refers equally to old and to current products. Literature data and microscopic measurements performed in a dust chamber test on wool fibre filters indicate that the percentage of potential insulation wool fibres in indoor air and the environment is probably less than 5% of the total inorganic fibre content, not exceeding a few hundred fibres/m3. (77694)
CIS 01-1746 2-Naphthylamine - Material samples, environmental concentrations, biological monitoring. (German: 2-Naphthylamin - Materialproben, Luftkonzentrationen, Biomonitoring) Blome H., Lichtenstein N., Kredel P., Goergens U., Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.59, No.11-12, p.445-446. 11 ref. (In German) Internet: 2-Naphthylamine is a human carcinogen to which exposure is prohibited in Germany. Although this substance is no longer produced, it exists in certain other products as an impurity. Concentrations of 2-naphthylamine were determined in samples of a number of products including those formed by pyrolysis (coal tar products, chimney soot, cigarette smoke) and products based on mineral oil. Concentrations in the air of an old coking plant and a primary aluminium plant were also determined, as well as in the air breathed by chimney sweeps. For the latter, concentrations were below detection levels. During biological monitoring of workers exposed to an adhesive based on coal tar, no 2-naphthylamine was detectable in the urine. (77575)
CIS 01-1747 Assessment of complete blood count variations among workers exposed to low levels of benzene. Khuder S.A., Youngdale M.C., Bisesi M.S., Schaub E.A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.41, No.9, p.821-826. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: The effect of benzene on white blood cell and red blood cell counts, haemoglobin level, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and platelet count was investigated among 105 workers exposed to low levels of benzene between 1967 and 1994 in a petroleum company. The average level of benzene exposure per year ranged between 0.14ppm and 2.08ppm (8-hour time-weighted average). The mean complete blood count (CBC) demonstrated values within normal ranges. With the exception of white blood cells, all other CBC values were significantly reduced during the follow-up period. Length of employment was significantly related to the changes in MCV and platelet counts. The reductions in MCV were significant only among workers who had been employed for more than 10 years at this particular company. The findings of this study suggest that low levels of benzene may affect CBC values. CBC values may serve as a useful tool for biological monitoring for workers with low-level benzene exposure. (77647)
CIS 01-1748 Serum concentrations of hexachlorobenzene in family members of workers in an electrochemical factory. Ballester F., Sala M., Sunyer J., Grimalt J., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 2000, Vol.26, No.1, p.67-70. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: In the general population of Flix, Spain, this study analyses the effect of living in the same household as a worker employed in an electrochemical factory on the hexachlorobenzene (HCB) concentrations in serum. 608 subjects completed a questionnaire about residence, occupation, lifestyles and medical history, and provided blood samples. 412 had never worked in the electrochemical factory. Having a spouse who worked in the factory was associated with elevated HCB concentrations in serum. For spouses of present and past workers, the adjusted relative increases were respectively 1.28 and 1.23 times the corresponding value of people not living with workers of the factory, respectively. The results of this study suggest that, among nonworkers, living in the same household as a worker of the electrochemical factory is associated with an increase in concentrations of HCB in blood. These findings suggest a source of exposure to HCB that has so far not been studied and that could be important in populations not occupationally exposed to organochlorines. (77657)
CIS 01-1749 Exposure to carcinogens. (French: L'exposition aux cancérogènes) Brasseur G., Travail et sécurité, May 2001, No.607, p.19-34. Illus. 10 ref. (In French) Internet: There are approximately 240,000 annual cases of cancer in France, of which 4-10% are believed to be caused by occupational factors. Furthermore, one million workers are estimated to be exposed to carcinogens. Topics covered in this collection of articles include: definitions of cancer, carcinogens and carcinogenosis; estimations of the number of workers exposed by major carcinogen; classification of carcinogens; European and French legislation; prevention and medical surveillance; compensation of cancers recognized as being of occupational origin; cancer research; substitution of carcinogens in industrial processes. (77661)
CIS 01-1750 Diesel exhaust - Review of methods of measurement with regard to its health effects. Ulfvarson U., Occupational Hygiene, 1999, Vol.5, No.1, p.1-57. 213 ref. (In English) Internet: This article reviews literature on emissions from diesel engines. Although the diesel engines have high energy efficiency and versatility, they also have disadvantages, especially the high rate of particle emission. Particles contaminate the environment, contain harmful substances and irritate lung tissues, with deleterious effects on the lungs and airways, possibly even causing cancer. Currently, vehicle certification regulations concern all particles collected from diluted exhaust at a temperature of +52°C or less, and do not discriminate between particles that may or may not be harmful. Further development of engine design, fuel and after-treatment of exhaust should take into account the health effects of particles. Research and development should address methods to measure particles originating from diesel engines and criteria for certification of engines, fuels and exhaust treatment systems. Based on present knowledge, a preliminary sampling and analysis method for diesel engine emission measurements is proposed. (77681)
CIS 01-1751 Study on the internal exposure of chimney sweeps to hazardous substances. Letzel S., Schaller K.H., Elliehausen H.J., Gissibl R., Hoffmann G., Schmittner H., Paur R., Angerer J., Lehnert G., Occupational Hygiene, 1999, Vol.5, No.1, p.59-71. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: To evaluate their exposure to hazardous substances, biological monitoring was carried out on chimney sweeps from three different regions of Germany and from Poland. The metabolite 1-hydroxypyrene and several hydroxylated phenanthrenes were determined in urine as indicators of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). Urine analysis was carried out to detect aromatic amines. 1-hydroxypyrene concentrations ranged in the total group from below the detection limit (0.1µg/L) to 12.8µg/L. A similar pattern of distribution was found for phenanthrenes. For a few subjects, concentrations of aromatic amines above the valid reference values for occupationally non-exposed persons were observed. Results indicate that chimney sweeps do not belong to the occupational groups highly exposed to PAHs. However, they should wear adequate personal protective equipment. (77682)
CIS 01-1752 Second interlaboratory test on the determination of pentachlorophenol and lindane in indoor air organized by KRdL of VDI and DIN. (German: Zweiter Ringversuch der KRdL im VDI und DIN für die Bestimmung von Pentachlorphenol und Lindan in Luft) Angerer J., Ball M., Bollmacher H., Buck M., Krämer A., Woppowa L., Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Sep. 1998, Vol.58, No.9, p.333-336. 12 ref. (In German) Internet: The toxicity of the organochlorine compounds pentachlorophenol (PCP) and µg-hexachlorocyclohexane (lindane) requires indoor air measurements in order to evaluate possible exposure levels. In 1997, the German Commission on Air Pollution Prevention (KRdL) organized the second interlaboratory test for the determination of pentachlorophenol and lindane in indoor air. 45 laboratories participated in the test using either the VDI-test schedule or their own method. The results indicate an improvement in the analysis consistency compared to the first test conducted in 1995, which may be attributed to a better training of the participants or an increase in the use of the standard operating procedure developed by the VDI. (77693)
CIS 01-1753 Evaporation of cytostatic drugs from safety work benches. (German: Verdampfung von Zytostatika aus Sicherheitswerkbänken) Opiolka S., Mölter W., Goldschmidt R., Erich E., Schöppe G., Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, July-Aug. 1998, Vol.58, No.7-8, p.291-295. Illus. 12 ref. (In German) Internet: For the protection of workers against heath hazards, cytostatic drugs are prepared on safety workbenches. The use of filters ensures that particulate matter is separated, while gaseous components are not. Cytostatic vapours released during preparation may under certain circumstances contaminate the workplace atmosphere. This is also true for cytostatic particles in the filter which may revert to gaseous form over time. In this study, vapour pressure values of two cytostatic drugs, cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil were determined. At a temperature of 20°C, concentrations derived from the measurements were 0.36mg/m3 for cyclophosphamide and 0.08mg/m3 for 5-fluorouracil. Particles of a diameter of 50µm evaporated within approximately a day's time. (77695)
CIS 01-1754 JETOC information sheet - 1999:2. Japan Chemical Industry Ecology-Toxicology and Information Center, JETOC Information Sheet, Apr.-June 1999, No.39, p.1-18. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Contents of this issue: I. Laws, regulations and related matters: 124 new chemical substances notified; 3 items added to the lists of environmental standards for for consumption of water; publication of the environmental survey of endocrine disruptors in water for 1998; new regulations in the United States, the EU and Canada; II. Toxicological data and information of chemical substances: information on the NTP management status report; III. New books and documents available at JETOC; IV. Activity of JETOC: meetings and seminars held in Japan in 1998. (77771)
CIS 01-1755 JETOC information sheet - 1999:3. Japan Chemical Industry Ecology-Toxicology and Information Center, JETOC Information Sheet, July-Sep. 1999, No.40, p.1-18. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Contents of this issue: I. Laws, regulations and related matters: situation with respect to the implementation of the chemical substances control law (CSCL); 127 new chemical substances notified; enforcement of the law concerning reporting of releases to the environment of specific chemical substances and promoting improvement in their management and of the specific action law concerning measures to protect human health from dioxins; new regulations in the United States and the EU; II. Toxicological data and information of chemical substances: citation of 2 IARC publications; III. New books and documents available at JETOC. (77772)
CIS 01-1756 JETOC information sheet - 1999:4. Japan Chemical Industry Ecology-Toxicology and Information Center, JETOC Information Sheet, Oct.-Dec. 1999, No.41, p.1-25. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Contents of this issue: I. Laws, regulations and related matters: 173 new chemical substances notified; amendment of ordinance on poisonous and deleterious substances; publication on survey on substances suspected to be environmental hormones; results of measurements of harmful air pollutants in 1998; new regulations in the United States, the EU, Canada and Korea; II. Toxicological data and information of chemical substances: citation of an IARC publication; III. New books and documents available at JETOC. (77773)
CIS 01-1757 JETOC information sheet - 2000:1. Japan Chemical Industry Ecology-Toxicology and Information Center, JETOC Information Sheet, Jan.-Mar. 2000, No.42, p.1-23. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Contents of this issue: I. Laws, regulations and related matters: 32 chemical substances announced as Designated Chemical Substances; 149 new chemical substances notified; citation of a report on chemicals in the environment; publication of the environmental survey of endocrine disruptors in water for 1999; national survey on volatile organic chemicals in the living environment; new regulations in the United States and the EU; II. Toxicological data and information of chemical substances: citation of the handbook of carcinogenic potency and genotoxicity databases; III. New books and documents available at JETOC. (77774)
CIS 01-1758 JETOC information sheet - Special Issue No.6. Japan Chemical Industry Ecology-Toxicology and Information Center, JETOC Information Sheet, Apr. 2000, No.43, p.1-90. (In English) Internet: Summarized data from toxicity studies for 24 chemical substances. Tests include repeat dose toxicity test and single oral dose toxicity tests on rats, genetic toxicity tests on bacteria and chromosomal aberration tests on in vitro mammalian cells. (77775)
CIS 01-1759 JETOC information sheet - 2000:2-3. Japan Chemical Industry Ecology-Toxicology and Information Center, JETOC Information Sheet, Apr.-Sep. 2000, No.44, p.1-67. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Contents of this issue: I. Laws, regulations and related matters: 50 chemical substances announced as Designated Chemical Substances; examination of the results concerning safety of existing chemicals (biodegradability of 13 substances; 17 substances considered not to be highly accumulative); status in implementation of the chemical substances control law (CSCL); 351 new chemical substances notified; amendments to the poisonous and deleterious substance control law; cabinet order for the law concerning the reporting of releases to the environment of specific chemical substances and promoting improvements in their management; results of a monitoring survey of substances to be observed in water; new regulations in the United States, the EU, Canada, Australia, Philippines and Taiwan; II. Toxicological data and information of chemical substances: citation of the annual reports of the American committees on threshold limit values and biological exposure index; III. New books and documents available at JETOC; IV. Activity of JETOC: meetings and seminars held in Japan in the fourth quarter of 1999 and the first quarter of 2000. (77776)
CIS 01-1760 Symptoms, airway responsiveness, and exposure to dust in beech and oak wood workers. Bohadana A.B., Massin N., Wild P., Toamain J.P., Engel S., Goutet P., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2000, Vol.57, No.4, p.268-273. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: To investigate the relationship between exposure to wood dust and respiratory symptoms and bronchial hyperresponsiveness, 114 male woodworkers from five furniture factories and 13 male unexposed controls were examined. Dust concentration was measured by personal sampling. Cumulative exposure to dust was calculated for each woodworker by multiplying the duration of the work by the intensity of exposure (years.mg/m3). Bronchial hyperresponsiveness was assessed by the methacholine challenge test. Subjects were labelled methacholine challenge positive if forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) fell by ≥20%. The median cumulative exposure to dust was 110 years.mg/m3. Overall, no declines in FEV1 and forced vital capacity (FVC) were found with increasing exposures. A dose-response relation was found between intensity of exposure on one hand, and sore throat and increased prevalence of positive methacholine challenge tests on the other hand. (77631)
CIS 01-1761 Epidemiologic investigation of respiratory morbidity at a nylon flock plant. Washko R.M., Day B., Parker J.E., Castellan R.M., Kreiss K., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Dec. 2000, Vol.38, No.6, p.628-638. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: A cluster of biopsy-confirmed interstitial lung disease among workers at a nylon flock plant led to a request for a health hazard evaluation, involving a cross-sectional medical survey of current employees. The survey consisted of a questionnaire, spirometry and diffusing capacity testing, and chest radiography. Workers assigned to production and maintenance jobs reported frequent eye and throat irritation, respiratory symptoms and generalized aches and fevers. Most reported improvement when away from work. Frequent respiratory systemic symptom prevalence was significantly associated with departmental category, with days and hours worked per week, and with working on a flocking range. The findings implicate occupational exposure to flock-associated dust as a significant respiratory health hazard at this plant. (77635)
CIS 01-1762 Acute lung function impairment by hexamethylene diisocyanate and toluene diisocyanate - A comparative study using isolated guinea pig lungs. Låstbom L., Camner P., Ryrfeldt Å., Occupational Hygiene, 1999, Vol.5, No.2, p.111-120. Illus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: Isolated, perfused and ventilated guinea pig lungs were exposed, through the airways, to two concentrations of toluene diisocyanate, TDI (21.7 and 25.2mg/m3) and hexamethylene diisocyanate, HDI (12 and 26.3mg/m3). At the low concentrations, both TDI and HDI caused a moderate decrease in conductance, Gaw (approx. 17%) and compliance, Cdyn (approx. 8%) after one hour of exposure. However, at the high concentrations, HDI caused a much sharper decrease in lung function (approx. 84% for Gaw and approx. 73% for Cdyn) than TDI (approx. 28% for Gaw and approx. 22% for Cdyn). Neither TDI nor HDI caused any effect on the perfusion flow. It is concluded that HDI is 2-3.5 times more potent than TDI to induce bronchoconstriction in the isolated perfused guinea pig lung. (77685)
CIS 01-1763 Toxic hepatitis from dimethylacetamide. Baum S.L., Suruda A.J., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 1997, Vol.3 No.1, p.1-4. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: Two cases of toxic hepatitis from dimethylacetamide (DMAC) occurred among 25 employees on a new acrylic-fiber production line at a U.S. manufacturing plant. Interesting features of these cases include: inadequate personal protective equipment for dermal exposures, resulting in skin penetration during maintenance and repair procedures; the subjects of these case reports are female, while all workers at the manufacturer's European parent plant were male, and DMAC related liver dysfunction had not been encountered at that site; the new American production line required more frequent maintenance and repair work than existing production lines at the European parent company, resulting in greater opportunities for DMAC exposure. Hepatotoxicity due to dermal absorption of DMAC and other amide-type solvents deserves special consideration in industrial settings. (77688)
CIS 01-1764 Genetic susceptibility to toxic substances at the workplace and in the environment. (German: Genetische Suszeptibilität im Hinblick auf toxische Arbeitsplatz- und Umweltbelastung) Thier R., Golka K., Brüning T., Bolt H.M., Bundesgesundheitsblatt - Gesundheitsforschung - Gesundheitsschutz, 1999, Vol.42, No.11, p.834-840. Illus. 33 ref. (In German) Internet: The variability of genetic coding for xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes is a factor for individual variation in susceptibility to chemical toxicants. In environmental and occupational medicine, polymorphisms of different isoforms of cytochrome P450, N-acetyl-transferase (NAT2) and glutathione-transferase (GSTT1, GSTM1) are of importance: they intervene in the oxidative metabolism of chemicals associated with an increased cancer risk. It is now evident that polymorphisms of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes may have a decisive role in modulating the effects of toxic substances in humans. Genetic characteristics should therefore be taken into account in epidemiological and toxicological studies. (77750)
CIS 01-1765 Resistance of disposable gloves to permeation by 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate and triethyleneglycol dimethylacrylate. Mäkelä E.A., Väänänen V., Alanko K., Jolanki R., Estlander T., Kanerva L., Occupational Hygiene, 1999, Vol.5, No.2, p.121-129. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: Contact sensitization of dental personnel to acrylic compounds is increasing, in particular due to the increased use of the methacrylates contained in dental materials. Gloves are important in avoiding skin contact with these chemicals, but usually the gloves at dental clinics are not certified for chemical protection. The aim of this study was to find out whether disposable gloves resist permeation by methacrylates, when tested according to the relevant European standard. A test chemical consisting of mixture of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (50%) and triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (50%) was used. The breakthrough times for typical natural rubber (NR) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials were less than 10min. Synthetic elastomers and combinations of polyethylene (PE) or PE copolymers with NR brought the breakthrough times from 13min to more than 8h. (77686)
CIS 01-1766 Survey on occupational exposure to cutting fluids. (French: Une grande enquête sur les fluides de coupe) Lafontaine M., Travail et sécurité, May 2001, No.607, p.36-40. Illus. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: A questionnaire was addressed in 1999 to approximately 3,000 French companies considered likely to be using cutting fluids. Topics covered in the questionnaire included ventilation systems, use of personal protective equipment, regular chemical and bacteriological analysis of the cutting fluids, the nature of metalworking activity carried out and the types of fluids used. 1,500 responses were received. Results indicate that 22% of the respondents did not have any ventilation; 9% of the companies surveyed admitted to not using personal protective equipment, and 22% did not monitor the properties of the cutting fluids. The tonnages of cutting fluids consumed and the number of workers exposed are provided for various industrial sectors. (77662)
CIS 01-1767 Inhalable and "total" metal and metal compound aerosol exposures for nickel refinery workers. Werner M.A., Vincent J.H., Thomassen Y., Hetland S., Berge S., Occupational Hygiene, 1999, Vol.5, No.2, p.93-109. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: Research was conducted at a Scandinavian nickel refinery to investigate exposures to compounds of nickel and several other metals as measured according to the conventional total aerosol approach and those as measured according to the inhalability criterion. Differences between measures of exposure were examined and related to the particle size distributions of the aerosols inhaled by the workers. Side-by-side comparisons were conducted, in which workers wore the two types of samplers simultaneously. Workers were also made to wear personal inhalable dust spectrometers (PIDS) which provided particle size distribution information. It was shown that inhalable aerosol exposures for nickel, copper, cobalt, lead and iron were consistently greater than the corresponding total aerosol exposure, tending to be more so for worksites where the aerosol was coarsest. (77684)
CIS 01-1768 Invitation to participate - Analysis of chemical hazards during the preparation of resins during the laying of floor covering. (French: Appel à participation - Analyse des risques chimiques dans la mise en œuvre des résines lors de l'application de revêtements de sols) Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2000, No.81, p.31-41 (In French) Internet: In order to analyse hazards from exposure to chemicals during the laying of floor covering, the Commission on Chemical Hazards of the Construction Industry in France invites occupational physicians to participate in a nation-wide survey aimed at identifying and evaluating hazards from exposure to chemicals based on the products used, the mode of operation and the conditions of work. Contents include: questionnaire aimed at occupational physicians; explanatory comments on the questionnaire; classification of floorcoverings based on synthetic resins; hazards from exposure to substances contained in the resins. (77627)
CIS 01-1769 Prevention of chromate eczema in the construction industry. (German: Prävention des Chromat-Ekzems im Baugewerbe) Struppek K., Ludwig S., Dermatosen in Beruf und Umwelt, Jan.-Feb. 1999, Vol.47, No.1, p.13-15. Illus. 13 ref. (In German) Internet: Chromate eczema is still one of the most important occupational skin diseases in the German construction industry. Primary prevention can be improved by partially substituting chromates by ferrous sulfate, a solution which is already being practiced. Moreover, nitrile-coated rubber gloves are suitable for protecting the skin when working with cement products. A survey also indicates that 60% of the persons questioned found that nitrile-coated rubber gloves are more comfortable, longer lasting and ensure better protection against humidity than traditional leather gloves. (77697)
CIS 01-1770 Occupational exposure during cleaning and disinfection in the food industry. Héry M., Hecht G., Gerber J.M., Hubert G., Subra I, Aubert S., Gerardin F., Dorotte M., Occupational Hygiene, 1999, Vol.5, No.2, p.131-144. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: An exposure assessment study was conducted in eight food industry plants. Significant exposure to nitrogen trichloride beyond the "comfort' limit value of 0.5mg/m3 was measured, primarily in two slaughterhouses (cattle and poultry) during the cleaning step performed with chlorinated alkali-based detergents. Excessive exposure to formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde was also registered during the disinfection step in the cattle slaughterhouse and in two other plants (fish curing and smoking, and pet food manufacturing factories). Special emphasis is placed on the need for careful rinsing after the cleaning and disinfection steps. In one factory, exposure to chlorine gas was determined, and in another where glutaraldehyde was used, some dermal irritations appeared when this rinsing step was neglected. (77687)
CIS 01-1771 Risk indicator of dust exposure and health effects in cement plant workers. Alvear-Galindo M.G., Mendez-Ramirez I., Villegas-Rodriguez J.A., Chapela-Mendoza R., Eslava-Campos C.A., Laurell A.C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1999, Vol.41, No.8, p.654-661. Illus. 26 ref. (In English) Internet: A frequent problem in developing countries is the lack of reliable records on occupational hazards. This article proposes and evaluates a two-phase method for estimating particle exposure. The first phase uses the focal group technique to reconstruct the production process and estimate the level of dust exposure. The second phase applies the technique of individual history of exposure to hazards at work, an index that accumulates current and previous exposure. This method was introduced in a cement plant to assess the dust-exposure levels of workers and to evaluate its usefulness in the association between estimated exposure levels and the frequency of health effects. Results obtained showed that it is possible to reconstruct the history of exposure to cement dust during each worker's occupational history. The results also showed that estimated exposure is related to respiratory damage; higher exposure resulted in more serious diseases. This supports the usefulness of the suggested methodology. (77677)
CIS 01-1772 Exposure to anaesthetic gases in operating theatres: Contribution of a semi-continuous atmospheric measurement technique. (French: Exposition aux gaz anesthésiques dans les blocs opératoires: apport d'une technique de métrologie atmosphérique en semi-continu) Chevreau-Fonteneau L., Gauberti P., Chaussavoine A., Lamoureux F., Jossier C., Lemaitre B., Soulois J., Letourneux M., Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, May 1999, Vol.60, No.2, p.118-123. Illus. 6 ref. (In French) Internet: Many studies have investigated atmospheric pollution in operating theatres and have shown that repeated and prolonged exposure to anaesthetic gases is harmful to the health of the anaesthesiology staff. A method of semi-continuous automatic measurements of the atmosphere in operating rooms described in this article, using a photo-acoustic infrared spectrometer, enabled the analysis of the activity of personnel working in operating rooms and clearly showed the influence of the type of anaesthetic system and the consequences of routine anaesthesiology practices on atmospheric pollution in the operating room. The results provide a useful and efficient tool for informing exposed persons and defining prevention policies. (77665)
CIS 01-1773 Application of the method of organizational congruencies in substituting organic solvents with vegetable agents for the cleaning of an offset printing machine. Salerno S., Tartaglia R., Garzi S., Biagioni A., Rulli G., Maggi B., Grieco A., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.97-106. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: Developing solvent-free printing processes is the objective of the SUBSPRINT program of the European Community. The aim of this particular project was to study the effects of substituting organic solvents with vegetable agents for the cleaning of an offset printing machine on company organizational factors. The MOC (Method of Organizational Congruencies) was applied to study these factors before and after substituting organic solvents. This study shows how human and environmental health is improved by using vegetable agents, though this change may lead to some other organizational constraints such as an increase of the time needed, monotony and repetitiveness of the technical actions involved. Better understanding the impact of the new technology on health would help overcome resistance to the change. (77806)
CIS 01-1774 GESTIS database on dangerous substances - Users' guide. (German: GESTIS-Stoffdatenbank - Nutzerinformationen) Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, Oct. 1999. 39p., ISBN 3-88383-541-2 (In German) Internet: This booklet describes the GESTIS database of dangerous substances maintained by the German Mutual Professional Associations for Accident Insurance (Berufsgenossenschaften) and presents the various access possibilities (through the Internet, in writing or by phone, on CD-ROM and on-line). An order form as well as an example of datasheet for 2-propanol are appended. (77578)
CIS 01-1775 Existing substances - Exposure at the workplace. (German: Altstoffe - Expositionen am Arbeitsplatz) Bock W., Brock T.H., Stamm R., Wittneben V., Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, Oct. 1999. 185p. Index., ISBN 3-88383-540-5 (In German) Internet: This report contains exposure data for 44 commonly used commercial chemicals, as well as descriptions on how these exposures occur in occupational settings. The exposure descriptions are basically concerned with the areas of use. The data and descriptions are based on measurements conducted in industry since 1990 by the occupational safety and trade associations (Berufsgenossenschaften) and accident insurance associations. (77745)
CIS 01-1776 Reducing carbon monoxide incidents. Pool G., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. vi, 42p. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2136-7 (In English) Internet: This report describes a project aimed at reducing the number of carbon monoxide (CO) related incidents associated with the use of piped gas. Specific topics examined include the development of a common strategy in Europe for collating CO incident data, assessing indoor air quality relating to gas utilization and the medical issues associated with both acute and chronic CO poisoning. Several meetings have been held with representatives of gas utilities of several European countries and research organizations to share knowledge and best practice. Outputs from the project have included a video aimed at improving the diagnosis of CO poisoning by those in the medical profession and an agreement between gas companies to pursue a better practice for the gathering and reporting of CO related incident information. (77767)
CIS 01-1777 The effectiveness of labelling of pesticides. Edworthy J, Hellier E., Lambell N., Grey C., Aldrich K., Lee A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. x, 148p. Illus. 25 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2146-1 (In English) Internet: In most cases, safety information on labels is presented as an instruction, rather than as a hazard or consequence statement. An evaluation of the effectiveness of different presentations enabled the specification of the most easily-understood phrase for expressing safety information on a range of different topics, and to identify the linguistic variables that generally produced effective and ineffective safety phrases. Experimental studies on direct compliance behaviour investigated the effect of the location of safety information. Effective and ineffective means of linguistic expression were combined with effective and ineffective locations for safety information. It was revealed that for all categories of users, presenting safety information in the "directions for use" section resulted in the highest levels of compliance. (77769)
CIS 01-1778 IARC monographs on the evaluation of carcinogenic risks to humans - Volume 79: Some thyrotropic agents. World Health Organization (WHO), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 150 cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France, 2001. iv, 763p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index., ISBN 92-832-1279-7 (In English) Internet: This document presents the views and expert opinions of an IARC working group which met in Lyon, France, 10-17 October 2000. It contains 19 monographs on thyrotropic agents (methimazole, methylthiouracil, propylthiouracil, thiouracil, doxylamine succinate, phenobarbital and its sodium salt, griseofulvin, spironolactone, sulfomethazine and its sodium salt, sulfamethoxazole, amitrole, chlordane and heptachlor, hexachlorobenzene, toxaphene, kojic acid, 2,4-diaminoanisole and its salts, N,N'-diethylthiourea, ethylenethiourea and thiourea). Contents of each monograph: exposure data; studies of cancers in humans; studies of cancers in experimental animals; other data relevant to an evaluation of carcinogenicity; summary of data reported and evaluation. (77779)
CIS 01-1779 Biomarkers in risk assessment: Validity and validation. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2001. xiv, 238p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 92-4-157222-1 (In English) Internet: Valid biomarkers can lead to biologically based risk assessment. Contents of this criteria document: validity and validation of biomarkers in risk assessment: risk assessment (hazard identification, dose response, exposure assessment for risk assessment); general consideration on validity and validation; validation of specific types of biomarkers (exposure, effect and susceptibility biomarkers); cross-species comparability; new perspectives; recommendations for future research. Appendices: biomarkers of exposure and effect for carcinogenicity; biomarkers of exposure and effect for non-carcinogenic end-points; measurement of drug-metabolizing enzyme polymorphisms as indicators of susceptibility; validation of biomarkers for environmental health research. (77780)
CIS 01-1780 Polyneuropathy or encephalopathy due to solvents or their mixtures. (German: Polyneuropathie oder Enzephalopathie durch organische Lösungsmittel oder deren Gemische) Köhler T., Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, Sep. 1999. 175p. Illus. 175 ref., ISBN 3-88383-535-8 (In German) Internet: The list of occupational diseases has been extended in Germany to include polyneuropathy and encephalopathy caused by organic solvents or mixtures. After an introduction on the legal aspects, this report presents detailed information on the 15 solvents whose neurotoxicity is confirmed on the basis of the knowledge currently available and on the various sectors where exposure to these solvents can occur. It also makes recommendations for diagnosis and medical assessment (77744)
CIS 01-1781 Symptom-reporting following occupational exposure to organophosphate pesticides in sheep dip. Jackson C.A., Spurgeon A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. viii, 35p. Illus. 8 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2111-1 (In English) Internet: The aim of the study was to investigate whether the acute symptoms reported by farmers less than 24 hours after dipping with organophosphates (OPs) could be grouped into distinct symptom categories. Re-analysis of the symptom data obtained in the Health and Safety Executive's Contract Research Report 74/1995 (see CIS 95-1450) was performed in order to identify recognizable cluster of core symptoms in exposed subjects, and to evaluate if exposed and control subjects differed in their pattern of symptom reporting. The core symptom groups were also analysed alongside a surrogate of exposure data to assess if significant increases in reporting of any core symptoms were dose-related. (77766)
CIS 01-1782 Risk perception of sheep dippers. Pilkington A., Cowie H.A., Kidd M., Lancaster R.J., Buchanan D., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. iv, 41p. 17 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-1830-7 (In English) Internet: This study is a follow-up to an earlier study of farm workers involved in sheep dipping sessions, which suggested that certain tasks and behaviours were associated with high body intake of organophosphorus compounds (OPs) as measured by urinary metabolites. The study was designed to explore the factors which determine behaviour during sheep dipping, and involved 60 farmers who had participated in the earlier study. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires on knowledge about OPs, safe working practices, perception of risk and attitudes towards risk taking. It was found that lack of knowledge on the safe handling of concentrate, routes of exposure and effective personal protective equipment were the most important factors contributing towards unsafe behaviour. The implications of these findings are discussed, in particular with respect to training needs. (77807)
CIS 01-1783 Final report on a research project on the composition and structure of oxide components in environmental dusts released when manufacturing and machining nickel-containing metals - Nickel-containing dusts. (German: Abschlussbericht zum Forschungsvorhaben "Untersuchung der Zusammensetzung und Struktur von oxidischen Komponenten in freigesetzten Stäuben in der Arbeitsluft bei der Herstellung und Verarbeitung nickelhaltiger metallischer Werkstoffe" - Nickelhaltige Stäube) Lausch H., Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, Oct. 1999. 41p. Illus. 5 ref., ISBN 3-88383-539-0 (In German) Internet: This research project focused on the structural characterisation of the dusts released during grinding, welding or injection moulding of nickel-containing materials in the metalworking industry, and to highlight the existence of free unalloyed nickel or nickel (II) oxide. Dusts released during various operations were sampled and their nickel composition determined. Structure was examined by electron microscopy. Results showed that nickel was underrepresented compared to the base alloys or welding materials in almost all dust samples except those collected during repair welding of grey cast iron, and that it was present either as alloy particles with iron, chromium or as spinels. No free nickel or dinickel trioxide was found in the dusts. (77746)
CIS 01-1784 Mineral wool insulation - Good working practices. (French: Les laines minérales d'isolation - Bonnes pratiques d'utilisation) Guimon M., Roos F., Travail et sécurité, Apr. 2001, No.606. 4p. Insert. Illus. 5 ref. (In French) Internet: Aimed at workers handling mineral wool, this information sheet describes risk factors affecting them. Main health hazards include irritation of the skin, the eyes and the upper respiratory tract. In France, the 8-hour TWA exposure limit is 1 fibre/cm3. This sheet helps select products and working methods to minimize emissions of fibres and dusts. The main properties of mineral wool are reviewed: composition, use, application and associated hazards. Good practices in worksite organization and in the use of work equipment are highlighted through four working situations. (77565)
CIS 01-1785 Practical guidance for the preparation of plans for working with asbestos. (Spanish: Planes de trabajo con amianto: orientaciones prácticas para su realización) Calleja i Vila A., Hernández i Carrascosa S., Freixa Blanxart A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 5p. Illus. 13 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note presents practical guidance for preparing the plans required by law for activities involving work with asbestos, which in Spain need to be approved by the competent authority. Contents: different types of work plans; elements which in Spain need to be present in the work plan (nature of the work, duration and number of workers involved, methods used, preventive measures for limiting the generation and dispersion of asbestos fibres, environmental air sampling, personal protective equipment, ventilation and worker decontamination systems, protection of areas located near the work area, information of workers, waste disposal). (77583)
CIS 01-1786 Managing asbestos in premises. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2001. 19p. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: This guidance note is aimed at owners or managers having responsibilities for premises which may contain asbestos to help them prevent risks to workers or others who may use the premises. Topics covered: why asbestos is dangerous; persons at risk; where asbestos is found in buildings; duty to manage asbestos risk; how to legally comply with the duty (finding out if asbestos is present; sampling; assessing the condition of the asbestos-containing material (ACM); repairing and removing); ACM disposal; information of workers; legislation; role of safety representatives. (77737)
CIS 01-1787 Occupational exposure to drugs administered in the form of aerosol: Pentamidine. (Spanish: Exposición laboral a medicamentos administrados en forma de aerosol: pentamidina) Solans Lampurlanés X., Arias Carballo M.P., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 4p. Illus. 10 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note describes the preventive measures aimed at minimizing or avoiding occupational exposure to pentamidine, a medical drug used for the treatment of pneumonia from Pneumocystis carnii and administered in aerosol form. Contents: pentamidine mode of action and administration; toxic effects in animals and in humans; exposure evaluation; preventive measures (reducing the use, isolating patients in booths to avoid aerosol dispersion, applying extraction and negative pressure to the booths, treatment organization and administration, waste management, personal protective equipment, information and training of personnel, work procedures and their control). (77581)
CIS 01-1788 Assessment of hazards due to chemicals. Analytical methodology: Basic aspects. (Spanish: Evaluación de riesgos por agentes químicos. El método analítico: aspectos básicos) Martí Veciana A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 5p. 13 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Aimed at occupational safety and health professionals, this information note describes the design methodology for developing analytical techniques for evaluating the exposure to hazardous chemicals. Aspects covered include technical characteristics of the analytical methods and their incidence on the results found, as well as the procedure for validating an analytical method. It also describes the various elements which an analysis report needs to contain. (77587)
CIS 01-1789 Assessment of hazards due to chemicals: Guide to the selection and use of the analytical method. (Spanish: Evaluación de riesgos por agentes químicos: Guía par la selección y la utilización del método analítico) Martí Veciana A, Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 6p. 10 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note defines the criteria to be taken into consideration when selecting an analytical method for evaluating exposure to hazardous chemicals. Contents: standardized and validated analytical methods (Spanish UNE and INSHT standards, ISO standards and standards of other recognized public institutions); appropriateness and reliability of the selected analytical method; carrying out the analytical method; analysis report. (77588)
CIS 01-1790 Carbon dioxide levels as an indicator of indoor air quality. (Spanish: El dióxido de carbono en la evaluación de la calidad del aire interior) Berenguer Subils M.J., Bernal Domínguez F., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 6p. Illus. 6 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note concerns the determination of carbon dioxide (CO2) as an indicator of the quality of indoor air quality. Contents: characteristics of carbon dioxide; CO2 as air contaminant; CO2 as indicator of ambient odour due to bio-effluents; measurement of ventilation flow based on the determination of ambient CO2; other information concerning ventilation that can be derived from a determination of ambient CO2. (77589)
CIS 01-1791 Code of practice for selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective devices. Singapore Productivity and Standards Board, 1 Science Park Drive, Singapore 118221, Republic of Singapore, 1999. 54p. Illus. 4 ref., ISBN 9971-67-672-9 (In English) Internet: The purpose of this code of practice is to provide information and guidance on the selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective devices. It is to serve as a reference standard for acceptable practices for respirator usage in Singapore. The mere provision of a respirator does not by itself ensure the protection of a worker: it must be the correct type of respiratory protection for the particular situation. This code contains requirements and recommendations on respirator selection, respirator fit, training, medical fitness, respirator maintenance and breathing air quality. (77742)
CIS 01-1792 Recommendations on the transport of dangerous goods - Model regulations [United Nations]. (French: Recommandations relatives au transport des marchandises dangereuses - Règlement type [Nations Unies]; Spanish: Recomendaciones para el transporte de mercancías peligrosas - Normativas sobre el modelo (Naciones Unidas)) United Nations, Sales Section, 1211 Genève 10, Switzerland, 11th Rev.ed., 1999. vi, 661p. Illus., ISBN 92-1-139067-2 (en), ISBN 92-1-239062-5 (fr), ISBN 92-1-339020-3 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: These recommendations have been developed in light of technical progress, the advent of new substances and building materials, the exigencies of modern transport systems and the need to protect persons, equipment and the environment. They are addressed to governments and international organizations concerned with the regulation of the transport of dangerous goods. They do not apply to the transport of dangerous goods in bulk which are subject to special regulations. The recommendations are presented in the form of models, which consist of a basic scheme of provisions that allow uniform development of national and international regulations governing various modes of transport, but which remain flexible for accommodating any future special requirements. (Replaces CIS 95-1188). (77810)
CIS 01-1793 COSHH - A brief guide to the regulations. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2001. 19p. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet provides guidance on the main requirements of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH, see CIS 00-620) 1999. It describes the seven steps required to comply with COSHH, namely: assess the risks to health; decide what precautions are needed; prevent or adequately control exposure; ensure that control measures are complied with; monitor exposure; carry out appropriate health surveillance; ensure that employees are properly informed, trained and supervised. (More detailed guidance on risk assessment is provided in CIS 00-961). It is a reprint of version analysed in CIS 00-1098. (77740)
CIS 01-1794 Analytical simulation and PROFAT II: A new methodology and a computer automated tool for fault tree analysis in chemical process industries. Khan F.I., Abbasi S.A., Journal of Hazardous Materials, July 2000, Vol.75, No.1. p.1-27. Illus. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: Fault tree analysis (FTA) is based on constructing a hypothetical tree of base events (initiating events) branching into numerous other sub-events, propagating the fault and eventually leading to the top event (accident). It has been a powerful technique used traditionally in identifying hazards in nuclear installations and power industries. As the systematic articulation of the fault tree is associated with assigning probabilities to each fault, the exercise is also sometimes called probabilistic risk assessment. But powerful as this technique is, it is also very cumbersome and costly, limiting its area of application. This article describes a new algorithm based on analytical simulation, which makes the application of FTA simpler, quicker, and cheaper, thus opening up the possibility of its wider use in risk assessment in chemical process industries. A computer-automated tool based on the methodology has been developed. (77680)
CIS 01-1795 Fire protection yearbook 2001. Steer A., ed., Fire Protection Association, Bastille Court, 2 Paris Garden, London SE1 8ND, United Kingdom, 2001. 320p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 25.00., ISBN 1-902790-10-3 (In English) Internet: This edition of the yearbook contains the following information: legislative aspects of fire protection in the United Kingdom; fire safety structure in the UK (including a list of useful addresses); fire services in the UK (including a map of fire brigade areas and an address list of fire brigades); fire test facilities; fire statistics (breakdown by location, casualties, type of building, material first ignited, source of ignition, detailed analysis of fire data, including cost analysis of large fires, by industry); fire safety in offices; the Fire Protection Association (FPA) and its services; training courses; fire Internet websites; list of consultancies; list of abbreviations and acronyms; major fire protection associations in other countries and at the European Community level; buyers' guide to fire protection equipment. Replaces CIS 00-1109. (77729)
CIS 01-1796 Fire safety testing of conveyor belts. Yardley E.D., Stace L.R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. x, 85p. Illus. 20 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2266-5 (In English) Internet: The fire propagation test gallery used for large-scale approval testing of the fire behaviour of conveyor belts in the United Kingdom was shut down in the year 2000. The objectives of this research project were to characterize the test gallery, to identify and develop small scale laboratory tests that could be used to examine the fire behaviour of conveyor belts in the absence of the large scale facility; and to understand the importance of changes in test conditions on the performance of belts currently approved for use in coal mines. A new small-scale test method has been developed that adequately simulates the performance of the large-scale test. (77754)
CIS 01-1797 Risks from gasoline pipelines in the United Kingdom. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 1999. xii, 47p. Illus. 24 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-1684-3 (In English) Internet: Individual and societal risks of four gasoline pipelines of varying diameter and operating pressure were compared in both rural and urban areas of the United Kingdom. The effects on the risk of soil type, burial depth, valve shut-off time and sensitivity to failure rate data were also considered. It was found that all pipelines located in urban areas showed individual risk levels in excess of 1x10-6/year, with the 16 inch pipeline having a risk level in excess of 3x10-6/year. Pipelines located in rural locations mostly showed individual risk levels below 1x10-6/year, but in excess of 3x10-7/year. The study showed that the maximum distances from the pipeline to the 1x10-6/year risk level were generally limited in extent, ranging from about 100 metres to 26 metres for the 16 inch and 6 inch pipelines, respectively. In terms of societal risk, pipelines in urban locations show the highest frequency per kilometre of multiple fatalities. As expected, larger pipelines showed the highest number of fatalities. (77701)
CIS 01-1798 Dust explosion prevention and protection - A practical guide. Barton J., ed., Institution of Chemical Engineers, 165-189 Railway Terrace, Rugby CV21 3HQ, United Kingdom, 2002. xiv, 352p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 90.00., ISBN 0-85295-410-7 (In English) Internet: Dust explosions can have potentially-fatal consequences when adequate safety measures are not in place. Dusts of many materials including coal, wood, rubber, pharmaceuticals and some metals can explode if they come into contact with an ignition source. This guide compiles the current best practices on measures to prevent dust explosions and protect plant and personnel. It revises and updates an earlier three-part guide (see CIS 86-8, 93-1322 and 93-1323) by incorporating legislative changes in the United Kingdom and the results of new research done over the past decade. Contents: background to dust explosions; determination of dust ignitability, flammability and explosibility characteristics; control of ignition; inerting; explosion containment; explosion suppression; explosion venting; explosion propagation; protection of pipelines and isolation techniques. (77760)
CIS 01-1799 Guidance on the design and construction of safety critical electrical systems at mines. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. iv, 32p. Illus. Price: GBP 9.00., ISBN 0-7176-1929-X (In English) Internet: This guidance deals with the design, construction, alteration and adaptation of power supplies to safety-critical plant and equipment at mines. It is intended for managers, electrical engineers, other electrical engineering staff and mine owners. Contents: definitions; identifying hazards and assessing risks; continuity of the electrical supply to the mine, underground equipment and ventilation systems; winding equipment; power supplies to de-watering and firedamp drainage plant and equipment; monitoring and control systems; communication systems. (77781)
CIS 01-1800 Relationship between vibration dose and the absorption of mechanical power in the hand. Burström L., Bylund S.H., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Feb. 2000, Vol.26, No.1, p.32-36. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between calculated vibration dose and the measured absorption of vibration power in the hand, as well as the measured grip and feed forces applied by 10 healthy subjects. The influence of 4 vibration levels with different durations during a test period of 5 minutes was investigated. There was a significant difference between the calculated vibration dose and the amount of measured absorption of power. A higher acceleration level leads to significantly higher absorption. Furthermore, the outcome showed that the rest periods contributed to a lower absorption of power in the hand and also to lower feed forces. The study supports the hypothesis that vibration-free rest periods give the human organism an opportunity to recover. (77655)
CIS 01-1801 The effects of local cooling on thermophysiological response in participants wearing dust-free garments. Kwon O.K., Kwon A.H., Kato M., Hayashi C., Tokura H., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.57-67. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was designed to find the effects of clean-room garments (A), with, and without (B) a frozen gel strip (FGS), and half-naked clothing (brassiere and shorts; C) on workers' thermophysiological parameters and on the temperature and humidity within clothing. The heart rate, rectal, and skin temperatures, sweat rate and clothing microclimate were measured during 140min in 9 healthy females. Participants also made subjective ratings of thermal, humidity and comfort sensations. The main findings are that physiological parameters such as rectal and skin temperatures (chest and forehead), heart rate and sweat rate were clearly lowest with clothing C, intermediate with clothing A, and highest with clothing B; temperature and humidity within clothing were lower with clothing A than with clothing B; more than half of the participants reported a decreased thermal sensation by wearing clothing A. These results suggest that the usage of FGS could improve the heat load in lightly working participants wearing clean-room garments. (77804)
CIS 01-1802 Use of the alkaline comet assay to monitor DNA damage in technicians exposed to low-dose radiation. Ündeğer Ü., Zorlu A.F., Başaran N., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1999, Vol.41, No.8, p.693-698. 36 ref. (In English) Internet: The exposure of human beings to ionizing radiation is still of great concern in occupational and environmental medicine, and the widespread use of radiotherapy in the treatment of cancer has led to anxiety about the possible hazards to staff who are at risk of such occupational exposure. In this study, DNA damage in the peripheral lymphocytes of 30 technicians employed in radiation oncology departments for at least one year was examined by the alkaline electrophoresis "comet" technique. The results were compared with those of 30 controls with comparable age, sex, and smoking habits who were not working in radiation oncology or chemotherapy services. The DNA damage observed in the lymphocytes of the technicians was significantly higher than that in the controls (P < 0.001). Cigarette smoking was also related to increases in DNA damage, and a significant association was found between the duration of occupational exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation and the DNA damage. (77678)
CIS 01-1803 Occlusive arterial diseases of the upper and lower extremities found in workers occupationally exposed to vibrating tools. Honma H., Kaji H., Kobayashi T., Yasuno Y., Saito K., Bossnev W., Fujino A., Tsutsui T., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, Oct.-Dec. 2000, Vol.13, No.4, p.275-286. Illus. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is primarily a disorder of the fingers and hands. However, in some cases, vibration-exposed workers also have episodic blanching of the hands and feet. Eight HAVS subjects with such disorders were examined by arteriography. In three cases with thromboangiitis obliterans, the arteriographic examination revealed obstructive changes in the palm and forearm, as well as three below-knee lesions in the lower extremities; in the other five cases, obstruction kinking or coiling, stenosis and/or tapering-off of the proper digital arteries were observed together with two below-knee lesions and three high lesions in the lower extremities. In conclusion, palpation of superficial arteries of both the upper and lower extremities should be routinely performed during both pre-placement and periodic medical examinations of workers using vibrating tools. (77639)
CIS 01-1804 Whole-body vibration: Initial evaluation of emissions originating from modern agricultural tractors. Scarlett A.J., Price J.S., Stayner R.M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. iv, 26p. Illus. 15 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2276-2 (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to quantify whole-body vibration (WBV) emissions levels found in five modern agricultural tractors when operated in controlled conditions (traversing ISO ride vibration test tracks). Vibration emission levels were found to increase with tractor speed and surface roughness, but were lowered as vehicle size increased. The presence of suspension systems reduced the degree of vibration increase with travel speed. Under standard test conditions, the highest single-axis vibration emission magnitude (for all the tractors tested) was within the range 0.8-1.5m/s2. However, application of the 1.4 multiplication factor (as required by ISO 2631:1997), increased this range to 1.2-2.0m/s2, in excess of the WBV exposure limit value (ELV) proposed by the EU Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive. Further investigation is required to establish linkage between the test track WBV emissions characteristics of given vehicles, and subsequent WBV emissions and driver daily WBV exposures encountered during typical agricultural operations. (77755)
CIS 01-1805 Noise exposure limits under hyperbaric conditions. Simpson M.E., MacKenzie J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. vi, 53p. Illus. 48 ref. (In English) Internet: An examination of data available on the sources of noise to which divers are exposed suggests that sound pressure levels both underwater and in diving chambers often exceed those allowable to workers onshore. However, sensitivity to different sound conditions is known to be altered in hyperbaric conditions, and current noise exposure limits specified in the Noise at Work Regulations 1989 (see CIS 90-21) are acknowledged to be inappropriate. Furthermore, there are difficulties in measuring noise levels, since calibrated microphones designed to work under normal atmospheric pressure will respond differently in hyperbaric environments. In the absence of complete understanding of how to assess noise attenuation in differing media across the range of frequencies, it is recommended that noise reduction measures be implemented as a precautionary measure. Several noise reduction measures which are currently under development are discussed. (77756)
CIS 01-1806 Study of the daily level of exposure to noise for workers in four occupations: Plastics processing; woodworking in woodworking shops; selling hi-fi, video and audio equipment; municipal waste collection. (French: Etude du niveau d'exposition sonore quotidienne des salariés dans quatre activités: travaux de plasturgie; travaux sur machines à bois en atelier; vente de matériels Hi Fi, vidéo, son; collecte des ordures ménagères (ripeur-éboueur)) Blondet M., Boitel L., Dupery M., Durand C., Pommier J.L., Rat de Cocquard M., Raymond F., Taupin J.P., Centre Interservices de Santé et de Médecine du travail en Entreprise (CISME), 10 rue de la Rosière, 75015 Paris, France, 1999. 143p. Illus. 21 ref., ISBN 2-85525-346-2 (In French) Internet: The objective of this study was to measure, over a one-year period, the daily levels of exposure to noise and the peak acoustic pressures in four types of occupations: plastics processing, working on machines in woodworking shops, selling hi-fi, video and audio equipment and collecting municipal waste. After describing the methodology used, the results obtained for each occupation are presented. Workers in plastics processing and woodworking are exposed to levels higher than regulatory thresholds. Technical prevention measures and audiometric surveillance need to be implemented. The exposure of municipal waste collectors is very close to danger levels, requiring the introduction of prevention policies and compensation for this occupation. As far as hi-fi, video and audio salespersons are concerned, 55% are subjected to levels in excess of peak values (135dB) and are consequently exposed to harmful levels; however, the interpretation of these results is complex, and further work is required. (77791)
CIS 01-1807 Workshop "Designing for more quietness: How to select components" - Proceedings. (French: Colloque "Concevoir plus silencieux: comment choisir ses composants" - Recueil des communications) Loyau T., Lovat G., eds., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Oct. 1999. 70p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French) Internet: A particularly important step in the process of designing machines consists of selecting the least noisy components. However, in most cases, information for implementing this approach is not available. This technical workshop enabled the listing of known methods for determining the properties of components, comparing their performance and assessing their practical suitability. Papers presented cover theoretical aspects as well as several practical cases (small engines, automobile exhausts, ventilators). (77799)
CIS 01-1808 One-day workshop on "Measuring noise in occupational settings" - Proceedings. (French: Journée d'étude "Le mesurage du bruit en milieu professionnel" - Recueil des communications) Thierry L., ed., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, June 1999. 95p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French) Internet: Proceedings of a one-day workshop on the measurement of workers' exposure to noise in occupational settings held in Paris, France on 17 June 1999. The requirement for such measurements is defined by the regulations concerning the protection of workers against noise and is based on the standard NF S 31-084 published in 1987, currently under revision. Main topics covered: methodology for measuring noise (personal dosimetry, noise measurement at the workplace); methodology used by control organizations; evaluation of exposure to noise in very small companies; strategy of measurements based on an "8-hour" noise dose; measurement precision; computer-assisted sound exposure measurement; proposals for the revision of the standard on the measurement of exposure to noise in occupational settings. (77800)
CIS 01-1809 Protection from optical radiation - Laser, incoherent and solar radiation. (German: Schutz vor optischer Strahlung - Laserstrahlung, inkohärente Strahlung, Sonnenstrahlung) Sutter E., VDE-Verlag GMBH, Bismarkstrasse 33, 10625 Berlin, Germany, 1999. 314p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index., ISBN 3-8007-2363-8 (In German) Internet: This publication is a reference manual on protection from optical radiation. Contents include: definitions; incoherent optical radiation sources; coherent optical radiation sources (lasers); radiation measurement; biological effects of ultraviolet, visible and infrared radiation; threshold limit values for laser and incoherent radiations; laser classification; protection against incoherent optical radiation; protective glasses against laser radiation; protection screens for laser workplaces; protective measures; secondary hazards (electrical hazards, fire, explosion); overview of directives and technical rules in this field. (77747)
CIS 01-1810 Radiation at home, outdoors and in the workplace. Brune D., Hellborg R., Persson B.R.R., Pääkkönen R., eds., Scandinavian Science Publisher, Bakkehaugveinen 16, 0873 Oslo, Norway, 2001. xvi, 547p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index., ISBN 82-91833-02-8 (In English) Internet: More than 20 Scandinavian experts contributed to this publication, which reports on the current state of knowledge with respect to all types of radiation and its possible health effects. Contents include: ionizing radiation (biological effects, risk factors, cancer); non-ionizing radiation (lasers, visible light, UV and IR, microwaves and radio-frequency waves); mechanical waves (sound); natural and man-made radiation (cosmic rays, radiation in the earth's biosphere, radiation in oceans, radioactivity); effects of visible light, UV radiation and electromagnetic radiation on plants; radiation in residential areas (electromagnetic fields, radon); radiation used in medical therapy (X-rays, radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, microwaves, radio-electrical frequencies, NMR); various kinds of radiation to which workers may be exposed and associated hazards; exposure to radon in mines; genotoxic effects and congenital malformations; cordless phones; outdoor work and leisure activities (beneficial and harmful effects of UV and visible light; exposure during flight); radioprotection principles. (77818)
CIS 01-1811 Acoustics - Stationary audible warning devices used outdoors - Part 2: Precision methods for determination of sound emission quantities. (French: Acoustique - Dispositifs d'alarme sonore fixes utilisés à l'extérieur - Partie 2: méthodes de laboratoire pour le mesurage des grandeurs d'émission acoustique) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1st ed., 2000. v, 22p. Illus. 5 ref. (In English, French) Internet: Part 2 of the present technical specification describes two types of precision measurements for outdoor warning systems: free field measurements and measurements in a free field over a reflecting plane. (77649)
CIS 01-1812 The Noise at Work Regulations - A brief guide to the requirements for controlling noise at work. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2001. 8p. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: Exposure to high noise levels can cause irreparable hearing damage. Noise at work can also cause disturbance, interference with communications and stress. This booklet summarizes the responsibilities of employers, employees and equipment suppliers under the Noise at Work Regulations (CIS 90-21). Contents include: actions required at noise levels below 85dB, between 85 and 90dB and above 90dB; advice for employers on carrying out noise assessments and implementing prevention measures; advice for employees, in particular on using protective equipment. (77709)
CIS 01-1813 Code of practice for noise control on construction and demolition sites. Singapore Productivity and Standards Board, 1 Science Park Drive, Singapore 118221, Republic of Singapore, 1999. 50p. Illus. 4 ref., ISBN 9971-67-664-8 (In English) Internet: This code of practice is a revision of CP 49:1989 (see CIS 94-1738): it incorporates amendment No.1, January 1999. It includes the considerable experience that had been accumulated on the control of noise in the construction industry since the publication of the previous issue, as well as the latest information on the methodology of noise monitoring at construction and demolition sites and the measures that can be adopted to reduce noise from various construction and demolition equipment. The importance of ensuring that excessive noise is avoided at all times to protect nearby residents as well as site personnel is highlighted. Responsibility for minimizing construction noise rests with the developers, planners, engineers, architects and all site personnel through proper scheduling of construction activities so that noisy operations are carried out during less noise-sensitive periods of the day, use of appropriate quieter types of construction equipment, and the use of noise control measures on noisy equipment. Site personnel should also be informed about the hazards of excessive noise and be protected against potential noise-induced hearing loss by the use of appropriate personal hearing protection. (77741)
CIS 01-1814 Ambient factors in the workplace. (French: Les facteurs ambiants sur le lieu de travail; Spanish: Factores ambientales en el trabajo) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. xiii, 94p. 33 ref. Price: CHF 20.00., ISBN 92-2-111628-X (En), ISBN 92-2-211628-3 (fr), ISBN 92-2-311628-7 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This code of practice provides recommendations and guidelines for assessing, eliminating and controlling hazardous ambient factors in the workplace. It provides guidance on the roles and obligations of competent authorities and the responsibilities, duties and rights of employers, workers and all other parties involved to prevent illness and injury among workers. It reviews the various aspects of prevention and control of each ambient factor (hazardous substances, ionizing radiation, electric and magnetic fields, optical radiation, heat and cold, noise, vibration) and provides guidance on hazard assessment and prevention, surveillance of workers' health and workers' information and training. (77817)
CIS 01-1815 Reference neutron radiations - Characteristics and methods of production of simulated workplace neutron fields. (French: Rayonnements neutroniques de référence - Caractéristiques et méthodes de production de champs de neutrons simulant ceux de postes de travail) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1st ed., 2000. v, 24p. Illus. 44 ref. (In English, French) Internet: This international standard gives guidance for producing and characterizing simulated workplace neutron fields used for calibrating neutron-measuring devices. A calculational and a spectrometric measurement method are discussed, as well as methods of production and the monitoring techniques for the various types of neutron fields. The methods of evaluating and reporting uncertainties for these fields are also given. (77650)
CIS 01-1816 The regulatory requirements for medical exposure to ionising radiation - An employer's overview. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov. 2001. iv, 16p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: GBP 6.50., ISBN 0-7176-2134-0 (In English) Internet: This guidance note is aimed at senior managers and clinicians of public and private hospitals, as well as at practicing physicians, chiropractors and dentists who use ionizing radiation. It provides an overview of their responsibilities under the Ionising Radiation Regulations 1999 (IRR99, see CIS 00-617) and the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2000 (IR(ME)R2000). The main provisions of these regulations involve the need for risk assessment, use of appropriate equipment, quality assurance programmes, training of employees and procedures for dealing with incidents. (77731)
CIS 01-1817 Radon in the workplace. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 2001. 6p. (In English) Internet: Under the Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999 (IRR99, see CIS 00-617), employers are required to take preventive action whenever the level of radon at the work premises is above 400Bq/m3. This leaflet provides the addresses of organizations that can test radon levels and offer advice on appropriate remedial measures. (77732)
CIS 01-1818 Code of practice for selection, use, care and maintenance of hearing protectors. Singapore Productivity and Standards Board, 1 Science Park Drive, Singapore 118221, Republic of Singapore, 1999. 42p. Illus. 7 ref., ISBN 9971-67-673-7 (In English) Internet: The purpose of this code of practice is to provide information and guidance to all persons who have to supply, purchase or wear hearing protectors, and to encourage the use of effective criteria in their selection, use, care and maintenance. Hearing protectors attenuate the level of noise to the hearing organs. They reduce the harmful effects of noise and help prevent hearing damage. In order to have effective hearing protection, hearing protectors should be used properly all the time. Therefore, attention should be paid to the important factors which may influence comfort and acceptance. (77743)
CIS 01-1819 Construction and mining. Lewis P., López-Valcárel A., Mkhumba N.J., Kitumbo H.I., Kirenga A.P., Samllwood J.J., Ehrlich R., Amweelo M., Deacon C.H., Jennings N.S., Ikingura J.R., African Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Apr. 2001, Vol.11, No.1, p.1-27 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: This issue is devoted to theme of occupational safety and heath in African construction and mining industries. Contents include: problems posed by flexible labour; occupational safety in construction work; maintenance planning for construction equipment; construction industry in Tanzania; occupational health in the South African construction industry; prevention of occupational diseases and accidents in the Namibian construction industry; hazardous chemicals in the South African construction industry; standards in mining safety and health; exposure to mercury during gold mining in Tanzania; accident prevention in Namibian mines. (77704)
CIS 01-1820 NIOSH Alert - Preventing injuries and deaths of workers who operate or work near forklifts. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, June 2001. 9p. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: Investigations of fatal accidents related to fork-lift trucks indicate that many workers and employers were not aware of the risks or are not following safe work practices and guidelines. This booklet describes seven fatal accidents involving workers who were either operating on, or working near fork-lift trucks. In each case, it is argued that the deaths could have been prevented by using proper safety procedures and by following the provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. (77783)
CIS 01-1821 Improving health and safety in construction - Phase I: Data collection, review and structuring. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. 217p. Illus. 56 ref. Price: GBP 35.00., ISBN 0-7176-2140-5 (In English) Internet: This report covers work undertaken towards improving safety and health in construction. The Phase 1 scope consists of collecting and reviewing data in support of the British Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1985 (RIDDOR) (see CIS 88-1753), to help understand causal factors underlying construction accidents, and to structure the information on accident causation using an "influence network" to provide a basis for quantifying risk and the benefits of improvement measures. The report concentrates on falls from height as the principal source of construction fatalities and makes recommendations on data collection and analysis, and strategies for improving safety and health. (77768)
CIS 01-1822 Reducing at-work road traffic accidents. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. viii, 31p. Price: GBP 6.95., ISBN 0-7176-2239-8 (In English) Internet: Many vehicles are driven for work purposes, including trucks, vans, taxis, coaches, buses, emergency service and utilities vehicles and company cars. Many people also work on or by the road, for example maintenance workers, waste collectors, postal workers, police officers, etc. It is believed that one third of road accidents and fatalities involve a person who is at work. This report recommends that the government takes measures to reduce occupational road traffic accidents. Existing occupational safety and health regulations are sufficient, but need to be applied to road traffic as for other occupational safety and health risks. The measures involve extending the responsibilities of safety and health enforcing authorities to road traffic. (77764)
CIS 01-1823 Powered industrial trucks - Safety signs and hazard pictorials - General principles. (French: Chariots de manutention automoteurs - Signaux de sécurité et de danger - Principes généraux) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1st ed., 2000. iv, 34p. Illus. 10 ref. (In English, French) Internet: This international standard establishes general principles for the design and application of safety signs and hazard pictorials affixed to all types of powered industrial trucks. It outlines safety sign objectives, describes the basic safety sign formats and colours, and provides guidance on developing the various panels that together constitute a safety sign. (77648)
CIS 01-1824 Thorough examination and testing of lifts. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Apr. 2001. 9p. Illus. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER, see CIS 00-76) introduced new requirements, in particular that all lifts provided for use in work activities be thoroughly examined by a competent person at regular intervals. This booklet is aimed at owners of lifts or persons responsible for their safe equipment such as facilities managers or supervisors, and explains what needs to be done to comply with the law. Contents include: meaning of "thorough examination" under the regulations; role of "duty holders"; what the thorough examination entails (examination schemes, notification of defects and corrective actions, documentation, record-keeping). (77710)
CIS 01-1825 Hazards associated with using farm tractors to move large bales. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, July 2001. 4p. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: In the mid 1970s, standard small-bale balers began to be replaced by large-bale balers in the agricultural industry. The chance of serious injury or death to workers grows with the size and weight of the bales, and bales that weigh more than 750 pounds put workers at high risk. Contents of this information note on hazards associated with using farm tractors to move large bales: statistics; risk factors; description of three accidents; measures to be implemented by farm owners and farm workers to reduce the risk of injury and death. (77778)
CIS 01-1826 Guideline for the compilation of a mandatory code of practice - Trackless mobile machinery. Mine Health and Safety Inspectorate, Department of Minerals and Energy, Private Bag X 59, Pretoria 0001, South Africa, 2001. 16p. Illus. 14 ref., ISBN 0-9584360-2-9 (In English) Internet: Haulage and transport accidents are the second largest category of accidents in South African mines. The South African Mines Health and Safety Act (MHSA) requires employers to prepare and implement a code of practice (COP) on any matter affecting the safety and health of employees. These COPs must comply with official guidelines. This document has been compiled to assist employers in the mining industry to prepare a COP for improving safety and health in connection with trackless mobile machinery. Contents include: legal aspects; format and content of the mandatory COP; COP implementation plan. (77725)
CIS 01-1827 Safe manriding in mines. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. iv, 8p. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-1989-3 (In English) Internet: Following an incident in 1997 at a mine having two winding systems on one shaft, a number of safety issues were raised that had not been addressed. In view of advances in technology and the wide diversity of winding, signalling and shaft operating systems, there was a need to update recommendations for the safe operation of winding systems. This document is aimed at persons responsible for the safe design, use and management of winding systems in deep mine shafts. Recommendations are made with respect to the equipment used on winding engines, and the application and use of the winding system, including the training of personnel. (77728)
CIS 01-1828 Prevention of leptosirosis in an occupational setting: Comments on a case report. (French: Prévention de la leptospirose en milieu professionnel: réflexion à propos d'un cas clinique) Schlosser O., Vibert M.L., Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, May 1999, Vol.60, No.2, p.112-117. 21 ref. (In French) Internet: A case of Weil's disease affecting a young plumber after his first exposure to working in sewers is reported. The preventive measures of the occupational risk of leptospirosis are discussed and the problems of defining approaches for temporary and occasional exposures are emphasized. The many-fold, dispersed and variable activities of many firms should encourage occupational physicians to inform workers widely about the hazards of leptospirosis, in anticipation of their possibly executing tasks which could lead to exposure. The objective is to cause further enquiries if necessary, leading to the definition of an appropriate prevention for the task. (77664)
CIS 01-1829 Epidemiological study of tetanus in Abidjan and implications for occupational health. (French: Etude épidémiologique du tétanos à Abidjan et incidences professionnelles) Yéboué-Kouamé B.Y., Bonny J.S., Ahimon E., Ahoussi E., Wognin S.B., Eholié S.P., Kouassy M.Y., Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, May 1999, Vol.60, No.2, p.132-135. 10 ref. (In French) Internet: To estimate occupational factors in the development of tetanus and the role occupational health in its prevention, a retrospective study was conducted, based on the files of tetanus in the infectious diseases unit of an Ivory Coast university hospital between 1990 and 1995. 393 new cases or 65.5 cases per year were registered. The sex ratio was 4.3 in favour of men. Among the cases, 5% had received anti-tetanus serum. Only one patient was correctly vaccinated. The portal was a recent wound in 50% of the cases, and the location was the lower limbs in 63.9% of the patients. In 54.4% of the files, a relation between tetanus and the occupation was mentioned. Shopkeepers, restaurant owners, domestic employees and housewives appeared more exposed. Prevention of tetanus would require the development of occupational health and mandatory anti-tetanus vaccination of workers in the sectors of activity identified as being risky. (77666)
CIS 01-1830 Emission of moulds and xerophilic fungi in the immediate vicinity of composting plants. (German: Emission von Schimmelpilzen und xerophilen Pilzen im Bereich von Kompostieranlagen) Haas D.U., Reinthaler F.F., Wüst G., Skofitsch G., Degenkolb T., Marth E., Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Apr. 1999, Vol.59, No.4, p.115-120. 22 ref. (In German) Internet: Between March 1996 and April 1997, the concentrations of moulds and xerophilic fungi in air samples taken inside and in the vicinity of two composting plants in Germany were determined. In plant A, agricultural, garden and food wastes were composted outdoors. In plant B, biological waste from households and industry was composted inside a building. A total of 163 air samples were taken and cultivated on different substrates for the determination of the number of colony-forming units of bacteria, moulds and pathogenic fungi. In plant A, no harmful exposure of workers was found. In plant B, bacterial counts were approximately 170 times higher than the background level. The numbers of xerophilic fungi and moulds were respectively 5 and 12 times the background level. Malfunctioning air purifying filters were identified to be the cause of the higher exposure. Monitoring of Aspergillus fumigatus and thermophylic actinomycete levels in closed composting plants is recommended. (77691)
CIS 01-1831 Presence of moulds in Thuringian archives, depositories and warehouses. (German: Schimmelpilzbefall in Thüringer Archiven, Depots und Magazinen) Riege F.G., Wenzel E., Eversmann F., Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Apr. 1999, Vol.59, No.4, p.123-131. Illus. 28 ref. (In German) Internet: Health hazards due to biological agents in archives, depositories and warehouses (ADW) were investigated throughout Thuringia, Germany. The project involved data collection on workplaces, the determination of concentrations of airborne moulds, implementing sanitation measures in mould-affected ADWs and applying measures for preventing subsequent contamination. Most of the archives investigated were highly contaminated with moulds, mainly with Aspergillus. The main causes of contamination were the humid conditions in the buildings (moisture in the walls, indoor climatic conditions), which promote fungus development. The study demonstrates that direct handling of contaminated files and other activities in archives are hazardous to workers' health. (77692)
CIS 01-1832 Cost-effectiveness of a post-exposure HIV chemoprophylaxis program for blood exposures in health care workers. Marin M.G., Van Lieu J., Yee A., Bonner E., Glied S., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.41, No.9, p.754-760. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: A cost-effectiveness analysis of a post-exposure chemoprophylaxis programme for health care workers who sustained exposures to blood was performed. A programme of treatment with zidovudine (AZT) alone versus no treatment and a treatment with three-drug therapy versus no treatment was analysed. Assuming that 35% of exposures were to HIV positive sources, the ATZ regimen prevented 53 HIV seroconversions per 100,000 exposures, at a societal cost of USD 2.0 million per case of HIV prevented. The cost per quality-adjusted life year saved was USD 175,222. A three-drug chemoprophylactic therapy programme (postulating 100% effectiveness and 35 % source HIV positivity), prevented 66 seroconversions per 100,000 exposures, at a cost of USD 2.1 million per case of HIV prevented and USD 190,392 per quality-adjusted life year saved. Treating only workers exposed to sources known to be HIV-positive would be the most cost-effective strategy. (77642)
CIS 01-1833 Microorganisms in the workplace atmosphere - Actinomycetes. (German: Mikroorganismen in der Arbeitsplatzatmosphäre - Aktinomyceten) Danneberg G., Driesel A., Verein zur Förderung der Arbeitssicherheit in Europa e.V., Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, June 1997. 84p. 68 ref., ISBN 3-88383-455-6 (In German) Internet: Actinomycetes, and in particular thermophilic, thermotolerant and mesophilic types, represent a risk to workers' health and can induce extrinsic allergic alveolitis. Proposals for a standardized method to determine actinomycetes in the workplace atmosphere are made. Various sampling methods are compared for their efficiency and cost. The sampling strategy, the transport conditions of the collected samples and the detection and differentiation of actinomycetes in the laboratory are discussed. (77579)
CIS 01-1834 Components for containment enclosures - Part 5: Penetrations for electrical and fluid circuits. (French: Composants pour enceintes de confinement - Partie 5: traversées de paroi pour circuits électriques et circuits de fluide) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1st ed., 2001. v, 52p. Illus. 2 ref. (In English, French) Internet: Part 5 of the present international standard specifies selection criteria for, and describes the design characteristics of the various electrical- and fluid-circuit penetration components mounted on leak-tight or shielded containment enclosures. It is applicable to electrical components, including connectors, fixed or removable wall penetrations, distribution boxes and lighting devices, as well as to fluid components, including fixed or removable wall penetrations, fittings and junctions, and control devices for process or effluent circuits. Elements constituting the framework of containment enclosures (e.g. metallic walls, framework and transparent panels) are not covered by this standard. (77763)
CIS 01-1835 Biological hazard prevention in the laboratory: Work with parasites. (Spanish: Prevención del riesgo biológico en el laboratorio; trabajo con parásitos) Alonso Espaladé R.M., Martí Solé M.C., Constans Aubert A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 6p. Illus. 11 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note describes the risks associated with working with parasites in laboratories as well as the appropriate corresponding protective measures. Contents: different types of parasites and the diseases for which they are responsible; characteristics of parasites (host-parasite relationship, means of infection, ways of entry); description of protozoa, trematodes, nematodes and cestodes, risks to workers involved in their handling and precautions to be taken. (77585)
CIS 01-1836 Blood-borne viruses in the workplace - Guidance for employers and employees. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 2001. 8p. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: Blood-borne viruses (BBVs) include hepatitis B, hepatitis C and hepatitis D, which affect the liver, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This guidance note is aimed at all persons involved in work where exposure to blood or other body fluids may occur. Contents include: description of BBVs; types of work where exposure to BBVs may occur; legal responsibilities of employers and employees; actions to be taken after possible infection with a BBV; special considerations for first-aid attendants. (77738)
CIS 01-1837 Legionnaires' disease - A guide for employers. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, May 2001. 9p. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: Legionnaire's disease is a potentially-fatal pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. Legionella are widespread in the environment, and may grow in cooling towers and hot and cold water distribution circuits. They survive low temperatures and thrive at temperatures between 20°C and 45°C in presence of nutrients such as rust, sludge, scale, algae or other bacteria. Aimed at employers, this booklet outlines the steps they need to take in order to fulfil their legal responsibilities against the risk of legionnaire's disease at the place of work. In particular, these steps include conducting a risk assessment, implementing preventive measures and keeping records. (77735)
CIS 01-1838 Biological risk prevention in the laboratory: Work with fungi. (Spanish: Prevención del riesgo biológico en el laboratorio: trabajo con hongos) Martí Solé M.C., Alonso Espadalé R.M., Constans Aubert A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 4p. 9 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note is addresses to the issue of the various species of fungi that can present a hazard to workers who handle them in laboratories. It describes the different types of mycoses associated these fungi (generalized mycoses, subcutaneous mycoses, dermatomycoses or superficial mycoses), the characteristics of fungi, yeasts and moulds as well as the hazards and biological safety measures (confinement level) associated with each species. Safety measures applicable to the handling and disposal of fungal cultures in laboratories are also discussed. (77829)
CIS 01-1839 Warehouse keeping: One job or different jobs?. (French: Magasinier: un métier ou des métiers?) Jardinier P., Mauboussin J., Mora V., Szyjka A., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2001, Vol.41, No.1, p.5-12. Illus. 8 ref. (In French) Internet: Four occupational physicians jointly developed a framework for on-site analysis of the warehouse-keeping job, taking into account the wide variety of working conditions, ranging from large industrial warehouses to small enterprise store rooms. In addition to basic questions, the survey covered ergonomic aspects of the job (lighting, noise, thermal environment, workload, work rhythm) as well as the personal experience of the worker. (77667)
CIS 01-1840 A lantern color vision test for the rail industry. Hovis J.K., Oliphant D., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Dec. 2000, Vol.38, No.6, p.681-696. Illus. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: Correct identification of signal colours is critical for safe operation of railway equipment. However, evaluating colour discrimination solely by using a screening test may not be sufficient in an occupational setting. A lantern test (CNLAN) was designed to provide a functional assessment of colour discrimination for the rail industry. It was validated on 81 individuals with normal colour vision and 74 individuals with congenital red-green defects. Using a criterion based on the worst-normal performance, 97% of the individuals with a colour vision defect failed both the CNLAN and simulation trial. As a conclusion, the CNLAN test provides a reasonable functional assessment of the ability to identify rail signal colours, particularly when a strict passing criterion is applied to screening tests. (77637)
CIS 01-1841 A device for preventing occupational diseases of the lower legs. Kristjuhan Ü., Reedik V., Tähemaa T., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.69-74. Illus. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: Physiological processes characteristic of the fatigue of legs mainly appear when the worker's activity requires standing. If the processes are intensive and regular, various diseases of legs, such as varicose veins and musculoskeletal disorders of legs and feet, can develop. Therefore, it is important to develop methods of reducing the fatigue of legs. Air jet massage technique was developed, and a prototype massage device was built. The massaging device's head turns around the lower leg and moves up and down, gradually covers the leg's surface. To determine the efficiency of the massage, fatigue processes were studied. These studies showed that jet massage effectively reduces both the subjective and objective fatigue symptoms. The device is convenient for use in industry, services, and at home. (77805)
CIS 01-1842 EL 2000 - Rheinbraun's new generation of electric locomotives - Ergonomic and safety conception. (German: EL 2000 - Die neue Lok-Generation bei Rheinbraun - Ergonomie- und Sicherheits-Konzept) Matzka U., Braunkohle - Surface Mining, July-Aug. 1999, Vol.51, No.4, p.429-433. Illus. (In German) Internet: With the help of feedback from drivers on ergonomic issues, the cabs of locomotives for coal-transporting freight trains of a German mining company were redesigned. The operating panels were designed with displays and controls which are easy to read, understand and operate. Swivel chairs were ergonomically designed, with arms rests that can be raised to avoid uncomfortable sitting postures. The floor of the driver's cabin is designed to provide insulation against vibration. An air conditioning and heating system provides temperatures between 18 and 24°C. The stairs leading to the driver's cab have hand rails for support and a large-enough platform to avoid falls from heights. A radio, installed to ameliorate the monotony of work, is automatically turned off whenever communication or warning signals are received. (77700)
CIS 01-1843 Lumbar diseases in health care occupations. (French: Pathologies lombaires dans les professions de soins) Meyer J.P., Gary Y., Lafaurie S., Leprince A., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 1999, No.77, p.35-41. (In French) Internet: This article consists of the highlights of papers presented at a conference on lumbar diseases in health care occupations held in Hamburg, Germany, on 10-11 September 1998. Topics covered include: epidemiological studies; physiopathology; evaluating the degree of strain (biomechanical analyses, observation, measuring the energetic cost); prevention principles (general principles, posture training, manual handling aids); ergonomic approach. (77623)
CIS 01-1844 Machine safety and human body measurements - Could worldwide standards be implemented?. (German: Maschinensicherheit und menschliche Körpermasse - Weltweite Standards vor dem Durchbruch?) Windberg H.J., Amtliche Mitteilungen der Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz, 2000, No.1, p.3-5. Illus. (In German) Internet: The objective of a draft ISO standard is to harmonize all national measurement tables across the world so as to enable the easy comparison of anthropometrical data. This project is relevant to the area of machine safety. Indeed, the measurements and anthropometrical reference data are essential to the design and layout of space surrounding the machines, allowing operators to move around safely. A worldwide standardization in this area will also help ensure that products manufactured in developing countries comply with European safety guidelines. (77571)
CIS 01-1845 The effects of whole-body restriction on task performance. Reynolds Mozrall J., Drury C.G., Sharit J., Cerny F., Ergonomics, Nov. 2000, Vol.43, No.11, p.1805-1823. Illus. 48 ref. (In English) Internet: Cognitive task performance in restricted spaces presents cognitive demands (the task itself) as well as additional physical demands (e.g. awkward postures), which may adversely affect task performance or operator workload. This research focused on the effects of whole-body restrictions on cognitive task performance. Nine levels of restriction were examined: an unrestricted control, 6 single whole-body restrictions at two severity levels (2 lateral, 2 sagittal and 2 vertical) and 2 multiple restrictions (sagittal-vertical, lateral-sagittal-vertical). An inspection task served as the cognitive task. Physiological, psychophysical and behavioural measures were collected and analysed to measure the operator and performance effects. Results show that increasing restriction significantly affected the behavioural and physiological operator response, but not the cognitive response. (77638)
CIS 01-1846 Box handling in the loading and unloading of vans. Lortie M., Barin-Gingras G., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.3-18. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: The handling of over 2,000 boxes during the trans-shipment from vans to 4-wheeled trolleys by 31 handlers in a warehouse was videotaped and studied through an analysis grid filled out by trained observers. The following execution parameters were observed: nature of the exertion applied by the upper limbs; plane and direction of the exertion; resulting displacement of the box; grip; use of the lower limbs and the back. Results show that execution parameters used by handlers vary considerably from those usually recommended or studied. For example, symmetric grips were rarely used (4%). The grip was modified during the handling of half the boxes. Significant knee flexion was rarely observed (3% of exertions). Each box was moved by applying an average of 3.5 different exertions. Exertions were mostly applied in a plane parallel to the shoulders; they were rarely executed in a strict sagittal plane (11%). The implications of these observations are discussed. (77801)
CIS 01-1847 Use of ergonomics as a quality improvement tool in a manual assembly task. Wick H.S., Bloswick D.S., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 1998, Vol.4, No.1, p.19-42. Ilus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between the design characteristics of a manually-assembled product, exposure to work-related ergonomic risk factors, and improvement in product quality. Postural data, surface EMG data, and quality statistics were collected from 10 operators performing four 10-min repetitive manual assembly tasks with plastic threaded nuts, bolts, flat parts and open-box parts. Unobstructed accessibility of manually-assembled parts was associated with decreased exposure to awkward trunk posture, decreased activity of the wrist flexors and extensors, increased frequency of repetitive motion, and a decrease in the tendency to attach parts too loosely. Accessibility had no effect on misalignment defects as measured. Part guidance decreased the number of parts attached too tightly and aided in increasing the rate of assembly of parts when there was unobstructed access to parts. (77802)
CIS 01-1848 Health and safety in the agricultural engineering design process. Crabb R.J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. vi, 85p. Illus. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-1895-1 (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to investigate the degree to which safety, health and human factors are incorporated at the inception of the design phase of agricultural equipment. Research involved a review of the literature and phone and face-to-face interviews with over 40 designers at agricultural equipment manufacturers and university researchers in agricultural engineering. Findings are that safety, health and human factors are rarely taken into consideration early in design phase, but mostly at later stages, for example by adding guards, in response to legislative requirements. It is recommended that the emphasis in design culture be changed towards designing inherently safer equipment from first level design concepts. (77808)
CIS 01-1849 Musculoskeletal disorders and work organisation in the European clothing industry. Hague J., Oxborrow L., McAtamney L., European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), 5 bd du Roi Albert II, 1210 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2001. 91p. Illus. 155 ref., ISBN 2-930003-37-5 (In English) Internet: Occupations in the garment industry are recognized as being associated with the risk of musculoskeletal disease (MSD). For example, studies have shown that the work of a sewing machinist may involve repeating a work cycle 1,500 times a day and lifting 400kg of fabric. The European garment industry is highly fragmented, consisting of over 50,000 mostly small enterprises, which generally devote few resources to training. This report offers a comprehensive review of existing scientific knowledge related to MSD in the garment industry. It also examines organizational changes in the sector and their impact on occupational safety and health. It presents practical examples of how approaches based on worker participation have addressed MSD problems in different workplaces across Europe. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of developing industry-based approaches. (77762)
CIS 01-1850 An intervention using a self-help guide to improve the coping behaviour of nightshift workers and its evaluation. Wedderburn K., Rankin D., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. viii, 86p. 49 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2093-X (In English) Internet: Disruption to sleeping, eating and social habits through shift work can lead to chronic impairments of mental and physical health. This study examines the effects of a self-help booklet for shift workers that aims to improve health and adaptation to working shifts. The evaluation was conducted using self-report questionnaires from a sample of 85 shift-working police officers. Measures were taken of agreement and behavioural endorsement of coping strategies. Barriers to implementing strategies were also examined. The results indicate that changes in attitude and behaviour were negligible, suggesting that it is very difficult to change health-related behaviours. The study indicates that self-help booklets provide "information" rather than "education" for shift workers, and that it may be necessary to adopt more intensive educational programmes to effect change in health behaviour. (77765)
CIS 01-1851 Stress and immunity: From clinical to research understanding. (French: Stress et immunité: de la clinique à la recherche) Weibel L., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2000, No.81, p.57-60. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article consists of the summaries of papers presented at a seminar on stress and immunity held in Paris on 4-5 October 1999. Topics covered include: the immune system; physiological mechanisms involved when responding to stress; diseases linked to stress (depression, Creuzfeldt-Jakob's disease, diseases of the white matter, infections); current medicinal drug therapies. (77629)
CIS 01-1852 Psychosocial conditions and access to an occupational heath service among farmers. Thelin A., Stiernström E.L., Holmberg S., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July-Sep. 2000, Vol.6, No.3, p.208-214. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: To determine whether membership in an occupational health service programme is linked to psychosocial risk factors, a study was conducted on 364 farmers or persons engaged in agriculture affiliated to occupational health care services, and 548 non-affiliated. The study was based on information collected via questionnaires and standardized interviews. There were clear differences in psychosocial patterns between the groups. Those with occupational health care were more frequently married, and had more education and more social contacts than did those without such care. Eating times were more regular and meals were better in those with occupational health care. Karasek-Theorell's indices for psychological demands and decision latitude at work were also higher in this group. Better-educated farmers and those with larger farms were more often members of an occupational health care programme. In addition, this group had fewer psychosocial risk factors. (77659)
CIS 01-1853 Posttraumatic stress disorder in co-workers following exposure to a fatal construction accident in China. Hu B.S., Liang Y.X., Hu X.Y., Long Y.F., Ge L.N., International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, July-Sep. 2000, Vol.6, No.3, p.203-207. Illus. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: 41 male construction workers who had witnessed a fatal work accident as well as 47 non-exposed construction-worker controls were evaluated for posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD). The exposed workers had a high rate of PTSD: 11 of 41 (26.8%) at one month and 5 of 39 (12.9%) four months after the fatal accident. The exposed groups' scores for depressive symptoms were significantly higher than those of the controls, in particular for the following symptoms: depressed mood; guilt; initial insomnia; middle insomnia; delayed insomnia; decreased interest in work and other activities; anxiety; somatization and gastrointestinal symptoms. Fatal work accidents affect not only the victims but also the mental health of other workers. PTSDs and associated emotional disorders related to exposure to serious work accidents deserve further, more detailed research. (77658)
CIS 01-1854 Analysis of stress and strain in teleworking. (German: Analyse der Belastungen und Beanspruchungen an Telearbeitsplätzen) Konradt U., Schmook R., Arbeit - Zeitschrift für Arbeitsforschung, Arbeitsgestaltung und Arbeitspolitik, 1999, Vol.8, No.1, p.40-58. Illus. 36 ref. (In German) Internet: Preliminary results of the first part of a longitudinal study on teleworking are presented. Stresses and strains were studied for 33 workplaces at home or alternating between the office and the home, and for 13 reference workplaces offering a similar workload. Results indicate that stresses and strains of teleworking do not fundamentally differ from those of the reference workplaces. Persons working at home have more flexibility in organizing their work. A negative correlation was observed between irritation and workload and general work satisfaction. (77572)
CIS 01-1855 "Flexible work" schedules in call centres. (German: "Flexible Arbeitszeit" im Call-Center) Trott H., Menzler-Trott E., Computer Fachwissen für Betriebs- und Personalräte, Jan. 1999, Vol.8, No.1, p.12-20. Illus. 8 ref. (In German) Internet: This article reviews the work organization problems encountered in call centres where the work schedules are mostly flexible (shift work, part time work, seasonal work, "stand-by"). In order to ensure acceptable work schedules and workloads, managers need to estimate the call flow as precisely as possible, which is done with the help of simulation software. Main topics covered: productivity, quality, absenteeism, workload, attitude towards the customer, rapid turn-over of personnel. (77696)
CIS 01-1856 Stress and strain in the call centre. (German: Belastung und Beanspruchung im Call-Center) Scherrer K., Computer Fachwissen für Betriebs- und Personalräte, May 2000, Vol.9, No.5, p.4-11. Illus. 2 ref. (In German) Internet: The results of interviews and questionnaire surveys conducted in call centres in Germany are summarized. Employees in call centres spend long hours at visual display units while answering customer queries on the phone. Noise levels above 55dB(A), low humidity and inadequate furniture were observed at these workplaces. In interviews, managers of these units reported the following stress factors: simultaneous communication with many clients, uncertainty with regard to the callers' needs and handling complaints. The employees mainly reported constant time pressures, lack of recognition and frequently having to cope with new software. Evaluations of the results of questionnaire surveys on the neuropsychic stress among workers in call centres yielded lower stress scores for varied and demanding work than for monotonous work with low decision latitude. (77699)
CIS 01-1857 Occupational physicians and urban violence. (French: Le médecin du travail et les violences urbaines) Barry A., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2000, Vol.40, No.1, p.39-42. (In French) Internet: Although psychological violence and bullying are often played down by employers and concealed by victims, they do cause psychological traumas. Occupational physicians can make useful contributions in the analysis and treatment of the effects of violence. Their involvement occurs at two levels: upstream, it consists of identifying psychologically vulnerable persons and proposing training programmes in areas of stress and conflict management and adapting behaviour for self-protection; downstream, it consists of debriefing and psychologically assisting victims so as to prevent after-effects. (77795)
CIS 01-1858 Medically-prescribed working hours: Part-time work as a form of therapy. (French: L'aménagement du temps de travail sur prescription médicale: le temps partiel thérapeutique) Alcouffe J., Boyer-Raby H., Chaudron B., Dupery M., Fau-Prudhomot P., Manillier P., Montéléon P.Y., Roux F., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2000, Vol.40, No.3, p.295-304. 11 ref. (In French) Internet: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency with which medically-prescribed part-time work (MPTW) was resorted to, to characterize the type of employees who benefitted from this measure and to report on the difficulties encountered in its implementation. An epidemiological survey was conducted by 168 occupational physicians responsible for 430,522 employees, by means of a standard anonymous questionnaire using medical record data. 832 employees, including 504 women and 328 men, with an average age of 44 and a peak at age 50 benefitted from MPTW measures. They consisted almost exclusively of employees with unlimited-duration contracts working full time during the day, with a majority being white-collar workers. Only 5 workers with short-term contracts benefitted from MPTW measures, and there were no temporary workers. The initiative was taken by the patient's regular physician and by the occupational physician in 524 and 254 cases, respectively. The pre-employment medical examination was used in 37.1% cases. In 80% of cases, dominant pathologies including arthritis, psychiatric conditions and traumas were involved. In 70.2% of cases, MPTW was implemented with the consent of all the parties (employee, personal physician, occupational physician and employer). (77564)
CIS 01-1859 Comparative study of occupational stress in the enterprise. (French: Etude comparée du stress en entreprise) Jarzuel Y., Simonnet-Trucy C., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2000, Vol.40, No.3, p.277-284. Illus. 15 ref. (In French) Internet: Over a period of six months, two occupational physicians studied the stress affecting 277 randomly-selected employees in the greater Paris region. Combined, occupational and non-occupational stress levels were rated simultaneously and independently by the physician and the employee on a visual analogical scale (VAS) during start-of-employment or regular medical examinations. The questionnaires were matched and the ratings compared. Results show that average stress levels experienced by workers are generally low, in particular with respect to their personal lives. Work location, the sex of the worker and the type of medical examination had an influence on the level of stress. However, no significant differences were found as a function of age, nationality or level of education. Evaluations made by the physicians and the employees agree moderately at the individual level but very well on average, for all three types of stress. These results suggest that occupational physicians are capable of making precise assessments of stress and that VAS is an appropriate measuring tool. (77562)
CIS 01-1860 Stress among German and American managers. (German: Stress bei deutschen und amerikanischen Managern) Vollmer G.R., Ralston D.A., Personalführung, 1999, Vol.32, No.12, p.64-69. Illus. 4 ref. (In German) Internet: Globalization and the constant mutation of the workplace generate a high degree of stress. This article examines stress perception and coping among German and American managers. Significant differences are highlighted. Among American managers, occupational stress appears to be higher than among German managers, although non-occupational stress appears to be comparable for the two groups. American managers have an optimistic mindset which helps them cope with both occupational and non-occupational stress. Among German managers, their role in the organization is not always clear and may be a source of stress. Job satisfaction is higher among German managers, as is burnout. The intention of changing jobs is more pronounced among American managers, which is indicative of a higher level of detachment with respect to their work. (77577)
CIS 01-1861 Alcoholism at work. (French: Alcoolisation en milieu de travail) Gournay M., Mathis M.T., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2000, No.81, p.43-48. Illus. 18 ref. (In French) Internet: A first part of this article on alcoholism at work consists of summaries of studies and cases from literature on alcohol and occupational accidents and on the prevalence of alcoholism at work and among the general population. The article then presents the findings of a questionnaire survey of industrial physicians in Lower Normandy on alcoholism at work, highlighting an important risk among short-term employees and in companies specialised in the hiring workers for the purposes of their reintegration. (77628)
CIS 01-1862 Workplace bullying and sickness absence in hospital staff. Kivimäki M., Elovainio M., Vahtera J., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2000, Vol.57, No.10, p.656-660. 36 ref. (In English) Internet: Consequences of workplace bullying were examined in a cohort of 674 male and 4,981 female hospital employees aged 19-63 years by focusing on sickness absence. Data on sickness absence were gathered from employers' registers. Bullying and other predictors of health were measured by a questionnaire survey. 302 (5%) of the employees reported being victims of bullying. They did not differ from the other employees in terms of sex, age, occupation, type of job contract, hours of work, income, smoking, alcohol consumption, or physical activity. Victims of bullying had higher body mass and prevalence of chronic disease, and their rates of medically and self certified spells of sickness absence were 1.5 and 1.2 times higher than those of the rest of the staff. The rate ratios remained significant after adjustment for demographic data, occupational background, behaviour involving risks to health and baseline health status. (77671)
CIS 01-1863 Workplace-violence investigations by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, 1993-1996. Peek-Asa C., Howard J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 1999, Vol.41, No.8, p.647-653. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health began conducting inspections for violent events in 1993, and information from these security inspections was collected from 1993 to 1997. The inspections were examined by initiating source, industry, type of event, and citations issued and compared with distributions of known victimizations. 237 inspections were conducted in 11 industries, with retail and health care establishments inspected most frequently. Employee complaints initiated 50.6% of events and accident reports initiated 40.1%. One third of inspections were initiated because of a fatal event, and 27.4% were initiated in response to a physical assault. Citations for security hazards were issued to 23.6% of businesses. Inspections initiated by employee complaints, in response to customer-related security issues, and involving nonfatal assaults were the most frequently cited reasons for inspection. (77676)
CIS 01-1864 Knowledge management: A fashionable expression or an element of the learning organization. (German: Wissenschaftsmanagement: Modewort oder Element der lernenden Organisation) Reinmann-Rothmeier G., Mandl H., Personalführung, 1999, Vol.32, No.12, p.18-23. Illus. 22 ref. (In German) Internet: This article reviews the complex topic of knowledge management based on a model that includes the main processes: knowledge representation (documentation and knowledge preservation), knowledge communication, knowledge generation and knowledge application. It is shown that these processes function on an organizational level as well as on an individual level. The difference between data, information and knowledge is discussed as well as the difference between explicit and implicit knowledge. The identification of knowledge in the enterprise enables the highlighting of the gaps in knowledge, as well as the deficiencies in communication and capabilities, and may generate awareness of the areas where further learning is required. (77576)
CIS 01-1865 Evaluation of psychosocial risk factors: Occupational stress. (Spanish: Evaluación de riesgos psicosociales: el estrés laboral) Menchón Sánchez E., Manzano Sanz F., Editorial Aranzadi SA, Ctra. de Aoiz, Km 3,5, 31486 Elcano, Navarra, Spain, 2000. No.3, 27p. (In Spanish) Internet: A study of stress factors perceived by the 42 employees of a pensioners' home was carried out by questionnaire and through interviews. A second questionnaire on the means of surveillance of stress factors was limited to the management and team leaders of the institution (7 persons). The results differ somewhat according to the levels of the staff. Stress factors perceived by all employees include the workload, the fast pace of work, the physical workload, the mental workload, the lack of decision latitude and the lack of information. The results of the questionnaire on the means of surveillance show that the establishment is capable of identifying stress factors, and therefore capable of implementing corrective measures to improve working conditions. (77813)
CIS 01-1866 The scale of occupational stress: A further analysis of the impact of demographic factors and type of job. Smith V., Brice C., Collins A., Matthews V., McNamara R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. viii, 61p. 7 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-1910-9 (In English) Internet: A recent survey of a population sample showed that approximately 20% of workers in the United Kingdom reported very high or extremely high levels of stress at work. Preliminary analyses of the data reported in HSE Contract Research Report 265/2000 (see CIS 00-1497) suggested that the scale of stress may vary considerably. The present report describes further analyses to identify factors associated with perceptions of stress at work. Reported stress was found to be higher for middle aged workers (30-50 year olds), workers educated to degree level, widowed, divorced or separated persons and in non-white ethnic groups. Gender had little overall effect. Reported stress was greater in full-time employment than part-time employment, and increased with salary and social level. Reported stress was found to be highest in teachers, health care workers and managers. (77752)
CIS 01-1867 Workplace safety - Individual differences in behavior. Stuhlmacher A.F., Cellar D.F., eds., The Haworth Press Inc., 10 Alice Street, Binghampton, NY 13904-1580, USA, 2001. 87p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: USD 19.95., ISBN 0-7890-1356-8 (In English) Internet: Collection of articles on safety behaviour. Contents: role of individual differences in understanding and predicting workplace safety; comprehensive method for the assessment of industrial injury events; gender issues in the measure of physical and psychological safety; predicting motor vehicle crash involvement from a personality measure and a driving knowledge test; investigating the relationships between personality and accident involvement; creating a safer working environment through psychological assessment; slips and falls in stores and malls; individual differences in safe behaviour. (77788)
CIS 01-1868 Control of work, a stress-moderating factor. (Spanish: El control de trabajo, factor moderador del estrés) Oncins de Frutos M., Nogareda Cuixart C, Pérez Bilbao J., Fidalgo Vega M., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2001. 77p. Illus. 51 ref., ISBN 84-7425-581-3 (In Spanish) Internet: This booklet addresses the issue of autonomy and decision latitude of workers as stress-moderating factors, based on the principle according to which it is easier to adapt and reach a balanced relationship with one's environment if one has control. Following a presentation of several control models, it defines objective factors (control on demands or on the task) and subjective factors (personal perception of degree of control), as well as the concept of social support. Finally, various methods for evaluating the degree of autonomy of a job, as well as intervention possibilities are discussed. (77826)
CIS 01-1869 Mental workload assessment: the NASA TLX method. (Spanish: Estimación de la carga mental de trabajo: el método NASA TLX) de Arquer I., Nogareda C., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2000. 6p. Illus. 13 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This information note describes the NASA TLX method, which consists of a tool to assist in the diagnosis of mental workload. It is based on a multidisciplinary evaluation of six factors (mental demands, physical demands, temporal demands, effort, performance and frustration level). Contents: definition of mental and physical demands; evaluation of mental workload and mental fatigue (mental fatigue indicators, mental workload factors at the workplace, subjective methods); description of the NASA TLX method and its advantages; example of an application. (77584)
CIS 01-1870 Bullying, physical violence and sexual harassment. (Spanish: Mobbing, violencia física y acoso sexual) Pérez Bilbao J., Nogareda Cuixart C, Martín Daza. F., Sancho Figueroa T., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2001. 143p. Illus. 87 ref., ISBN 84-7425-580-5 (In Spanish) Internet: This booklet defines the various types of bullying and violence that can be encountered at the workplace (bullying, physical violence, sexual harassment) as well as their consequences for the worker and for the work performed. It proposes intervention measures (social support and psychological support for victims, disciplinary measures) and preventive measures. Legal aspects are also addressed. (77827)
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