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ILO-CIS Bulletin 2003/02CIS 03-501 --- CIS 03-1000Laws, regulations, directivesCIS 03-501 Law modifying the Working Environment Act (1977:1160) [Sweden]. (Swedish: Lag om ändring i arbetsmiljölagen (1977:1160)) Svensk författningssamling, 17 June 2003, Vol.8, No.365, p.1-7. (In Swedish) Internet: This Law amends several provisions of the 1977 Working Environment Act (for latest version, see CIS 00-901). The changes concern the responsibility of employers with regards to the conduct of their business in accordance with principles of OSH, OSH practices in general, and responsibilities of workers' representatives in connection with OSH. (101556)
CIS 03-502 Law of 25 Feb. 2003 on measures aimed at reinforcing prevention in connection with the welfare of workers during the performance of their work [Belgium]. (Dutch: Wet houdende maatregelen ter versterking van de preventie inzake het welzijn van de werknemers bij de uitvoering van hun werk; French: Loi du 25 févr. 2003 portant des mesures pour renforcer la prévention en matière de bien-être des travailleurs lors de l'exécution de leur travail [Belgique]) Moniteur belge - Belgisch Staatsblad, 14 Mar. 2003, Vol.173, No.84, p.12314-12317. (In Dutch, French) Internet: This Act modifies the 1996 Act concerning the welfare of workers during the performance of their work (see CIS 97-1) by adding or modifying provisions concerning the protection of temporary workers, the prevention of the repetition of serious accidents and the responsibilities of labour inspectors (in connection with the presence of outside workers and the non-respect of OSH measures by the employer). (101577)
CIS 03-503 Occupational Injury Insurance Act (No. 422 of 10 June 2003) [Denmark]. (Danish: Lov om arbejdsskadesikring) Lovtidende A, 11 June 2003, Vol.86, No.422, p.2666-2687 (Internet version: 23p.). (In Danish) Internet: This Law came into force on 1 Jan. 2004. Summary: objectives; scope; definition of occupational injury and disease; calculation of contributions; payment of compensation; handling of cases; administrative rules; employers and self-employed persons obliged to join the scheme; insurance obligations; the Labour Market Occupational Injury Insurance. (101580)
CIS 03-504 The Work Environment Act - with commentary as worded on 1st January 2001 [Sweden]. Publikationsservice, Arbetsmiljöverket, Box 1300, 171 25 Solna, Sweden, 2001. 107p., ISBN 91-7464-411-4 (In English) Internet: English translation of the Act (SFS 1977:1160, modifications until SFS 2000:764) and the Ordinance (SFS 1977:1166, modifications until SFS 2000:957) concerning the working environment (see CIS 00-901), with extensive commentary. The Act came into force in July 1978. It applies to all kinds of work in Sweden, except for work on board ships and work in the employer's home. Contents of the Act: duties of employers and employees regarding the working environment; young workers; co-operation between employers and workers; enforcement; penalties. Special note is made of ordinances which have been amended since the last edition. Contents of the Ordinance: notifications; archives; workplaces common to several enterprises; information of workers; safety activities; enforcement; empowerments; penalties. Previous English-language translation: CIS 92-1403. (101741)
CIS 03-505 Council Decision of 22 July 2003 setting up an Advisory Committee on Safety and Health at Work [European Union]. (French: Décision du Conseil du 22 juillet 2003 relative à la création d'un Comité consultatif pour la sécurité et la santé sur le lieu du travail [Union européenne]; Spanish: Decisión del Consejo de 22 de julio de 2003 relativa a la creación de un Comité consultivo para la seguridad y la salud en el trabajo) Official Journal of the European Union - Journal officiel de l'Union européenne, 13 Sep. 2003, Vol.46, No.C 218, p.1-4. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This Decision establishes an Advisory Council with the task of assisting the Commission of the European Union in the preparation, implementation and evaluation of activities in the field of OSH. Each Member State of the EU will have the right to nominate three full members of the Council, representing national governments, trade unions and employers' organizations. (101555)
CIS 03-506 Executive Decree No.6/96 of 2 Feb. 1996, approving the General regulations concerning occupational safety and health services in enterprises [Angola]. (Portuguese: Decreto executivo n.°6/96 de 2 de Fevereiro - Aprova o Regulamento geral dos Serviços de Segurança e Higiene no Trabalho nas Empresas (R.G.I.)) Diário da República, 2 Feb. 1996, Series I, No.5, p.44-48. (In Portuguese) Internet: The Decree implements in Angola the new regulations on OSH services within enterprises, in accordance with ILO Convention 161 (see CIS 86-859). The regulations require the organization of OSH services within enterprises and define the role of OSH experts. The creation of inter-enterprise OSH services is also foreseen. In annex: sample form for the reporting of OSH personnel for government registration. (101572)
CIS 03-507 Executive Decree No.21/98 of 30 Apr. 1998, approving the General regulations concerning occupational safety committees [Angola]. (Portuguese: Decreto executivo n.°21/98 de 30 de Abril - Aprova o Regulamento geral das Comissões de Prevenção de Acidentes de Trabalho (R.G.3)) Diário da República, 30 Apr. 1998, Series I, No.20, p.188-192. (In Portuguese) Internet: The Decree implements in Angola the new regulations on occupational safety committees (CPAT), which oblige the creation of such committees in all enterprises employing more than 50 workers or with particularly hazardous workstations. The committees must have equal representation of representatives of workers and of the employer. The role and responsibilities of such committees are defined. (101573)
CIS 03-508 Decree No.9/95 of 21 Apr. 1995 - Regulations on the General Labour Inspectorate [Angola]. (Portuguese: Decreto n.°9/95 de 21 de Abril - Regulamento da inspecção geral do trabalho) Diário da República, 21 Apr. 1995, Series I, No.16, p.155-169. Illus. (In Portuguese) Internet: This Decree creates a General Labour Inspectorate for Angola. Contents: role of the Inspectorate; specific responsibilities; organization; management; department of research and programming; department of inspection; technical section; administrative section; training and enforcement activities; inspection procedures and rules; powers of inspectors; personnel and financial matters. (101574)
CIS 03-509 Plant safety ordinance [Germany]. (German: Betriebssicherheitsverordnung) Von Locquenghien D., Ostermann H.J., Klindt T., Bundesanzeiger Verlagsges.mbH., Postfach 10 05 34, 50445 Köln, Germany, 2002. 125p. Illus. Price: EUR 18.00., ISBN 3-89817-270-8 (In German) Internet: The plant safety ordinance was adopted by the German government to simplify the existing legislation. This new ordinance groups the contents of eight previous ordinances and transposes into German law three European directives: Directive 95/63/EC of 5 December 1995 amending the Directive 89/655/EEC concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for the use of work equipment (see CIS 96-395), Directive 2001/45/EC of 27 June 2001 amending Council Directive 89/655/EEC and Directive 1999/92/EC of 16 December 1999 on minimum requirements for improving the safety and health protection of workers potentially at risk from explosive atmospheres. A large number of old legislative provisions is repealed. The provisions of the new plant safety ordinance include hazards such as pressure systems, explosions and fires. This document presents the full text of the ordinance as well as an introduction on its objectives and content and a comment on the reasons for which the federal government decided on its adoption. (101671)
CIS 03-510 Decree No.351/79 - Occupational Health and Safety - Regulations introduced by Act No.19,587 and repeal of the Annex of Decree No.4160/73 [Argentina]. (Spanish: Decreto N°351/79 - Higiene y seguridad en el trabajo - Reglaméntase la Ley N°19.587 y derógase el Anexo aprobado por Decreto N° 4.160/73) Internet copy, 1979-2004. 142p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: Detailed regulations concerning OSH, introduced under the authority of Decree No.4160/73 on Occupational Safety and Health (see CIS 76-1489), and repealing the original annexes. The regulations, which have been updated to 2004, are contained in eight annexes: I - General OSH measures; occupational medical and OSH services; basic requirements of workplaces (welfare facilities etc.); minimum hygienic conditions; electrical safety; machinery (incl. lifting equipment) and tools; fire safety; personal protection; selection and training of personnel. II - Work in cold and hot environments. III - Chemical safety (includes a detailed TLV list, with a list of frequent synonyms and an explanation of codes and terms used); biological exposure limits. IV - Lighting standards; use of colour to identify locales and objects. V - Acoustics; protection against noise and vibration. VI - Electrical safety. VII - Fire safety. VIII - Annual statistical reports. These regulations do not normally apply to the construction industry and to agricultural establishments. (101745)
CIS 03-511 Law of 28 Jan. 2003 concerning medical examinations within the labour relations framework [Belgium]. (Dutch: Wet betreffende de medische onderzoeken die binnen het kader van de arbeidsverhoudingen worden uitgevoerd; French: Loi du 28 janv. 2003 relative aux examens médicaux dans le cadre des relations professionnelles [Belgique]) Moniteur belge - Belgisch Staatsblad, 9 Apr. 2003, Vol.173, No.125, p.17757-17759. (In Dutch, French) Internet: This Law applies to medical examinations of workers covered under the 1978 Act on Labour Contracts as well as to workers covered by regulations concerning public service employees and to applicants to work in these sectors. Medical examinations (including laboratory tests and the taking of medical history) of such workers can be carried out only in order to find out health information relevant to the aptitude for the work in question and its specific characteristics. Genetic testing and HIV screening are prohibited in workplace medical examinations. Other details of such examinations are also specified. (101578)
CIS 03-512 Order No.1115 of 30 July 2002 of the Council of Ministers concerning occupational diseases, detailed principles as to procedures with regard to reporting of the risks, determination and treatment of occupational diseases as well as to entities in charge [Poland]. (Polish: Rozporządzenie Rady Ministrów z dnia 30 lipca 2002 r. w sprawie wykazu chorób zawodowych, szczegółowych zasad postępowania w sprawach zgłaszania podejrzenia, rozpoznawania i stwierdzania chorób zawodowych oraz podmiotów właściwych w tych sprawach) Dziennik Ustaw, 19 Aug. 2002, No.132, p.8345-8354. (In Polish) Internet: This Order (effective: 1 Sep. 2002) concerns the prevention, detection and treatment of occupational diseases. In annex: schedule of occupational diseases, with time limits on reporting. Order of the Council of Ministers of 18 Nov. 1983 regarding occupational diseases (see CIS 85-1348) is repealed. (101576)
CIS 03-513 Notification No. 918 of 2002 concerning the list of occupational diseases [Denmark]. (Danish: Bekendtgørelse om fortegnelse over erhvervssygdomme) Lovtidende A, 26 Nov. 2002, Vol.162, No.918, p.7116 (with Annexes: 24p.) (In Danish) Internet: This Notification (effective 1 Dec. 2002) outlines the requirements for a disease to be considered as occupational and the conditions under which entitlement to compensation can be granted. In annex: schedule of diseases caused by chemical agents; occupational skin diseases due to unspecified substances; other diseases due to unspecified substances; infectious and parasitic diseases; diseases due to physical agents; cancers not classified elsewhere; tooth and gum problems due to occupational causes; particular problems of employees who work with children; IARC list of potentially carcinogenic substances, with their corresponding carcinogenicity codes. Notification No.357 of 17 May 2001 on the same subject is repealed. (101579)
CIS 03-514 National Decree No.658/1996 - Occupational hazards - List of occupational diseases [Argentina]. (Spanish: Decreto Nacional 658/1996 - Riesgos del trabajo - Listado de enfermedades profesionales) Boletín Oficial de la República Argentina, 27 June 1996, Year 104, No.28,424, Section I, p.4-14 (Internet copy: 33p.) (In Spanish) Internet: List of occupational diseases recognized in Argentina, classified by causal agent (chemical, physical, biological or ergonomic). The decree was introduced in application of Act No.24,557 on Hazards at Work (see CIS 97-1412). (101746)
CIS 03-515 Decree No.9 of 29 July 2003 on the minimum requirements for safety and health at work in the extractive industries through drilling [Bulgaria]. (Bulgarian: Naredba N°9 ot 29 juli 2003 g. za minimalnite iziskvanija za osigurjavane na bezopasnostta i zdraveto na raboteštite pri dobivane na podzemni bogatstva črez sondirane) Dăržaven vestnik, 5 Sep. 2003, No.79, p.29-35. (In Bulgarian) Internet: This Decree provides for detailed safety rules in the extractive industries that rely on drilling, with special provisions for extraction at sea. (101554)
CIS 03-516 Directive 2004/9/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 February 2004 on the inspection and verification of good laboratory practice (GLP) (Codified version) [European Union]. (French: Directive 2004/9/CE du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 11 février 2004 concernant l'inspection et la vérification des bonnes pratiques de laboratoire (BPL) (Version codifiée) [Union européenne]; Spanish: Directiva 2004/9/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 11 de febrero de 2004, relativa a la inspección y verificación de las buenas prácticas de laboratorio (BPL) (Versión codificada)) Official Journal of the European Union - Journal officiel de l'Union européenne, 20 Feb. 2004, Vol.47, No.L 50, p.28-43. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This is the codification of Council Directive 88/320/EEC of 7 June 1988, as modified subsequently (and which is repealed by this Directive). Its purpose is to establish standardized organizational processes and conditions under which laboratory studies are planned, performed, recorded and reported for the non-clinical testing of chemicals for the protection of man, animals and the environment. In annex: revised guides for compliance monitoring procedures for GLP; revised guidance for the conduct of test facility inspections and study audits. (101551)
CIS 03-517 Commission Directive 2003/82/EC of 11 September 2003 amending Council Directive 91/414/EEC as regards standard phrases for special risks and safety precautions for plant-protection products [European Union]. (French: Directive 2003/82/CE de la Commission du 11 septembre 2003 modifiant la directive 91/414/CEE du Conseil en ce qui concerne les phrases types indiquant les risques particuliers et les précautions à prendre en matière de produits phytopharmaceutiques [Union européenne]; Spanish: Directiva 2003/82/CE de la Comisión, de 11 de septiembre de 2003, por la que se modifica la Directiva 91/414/CEE del Consejo en lo relativo a las frases normalizadas indicativas de riesgos especiales y de precauciones respecto a los productos fitosanitarios) Official Journal of the European Union - Journal officiel de l'Union européenne, 12 Sep. 2003, Vol.46, No.L 228, p.11-28. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This Directive modifies Directive 91/414/EEC (see CIS 95-1942). It introduces new Annexes IV-V (Annexes I-II of this Directive) to the original Directive containing new standard phrases (in 11 languages) for special risks for humans or the environment, as well as a time schedule for implementation measures in Member States for active substances authorized for use in plant-protection products (for each of 63 substances: substance name, citation of inclusion Directive, date for implementation). (101559)
CIS 03-518 Commission Directive 2003/81/EC of 5 September 2003 amending Council Directive 91/414/EEC to include molinate, thiram and ziram as active substances [European Union]. (French: Directive 2003/81/CE de la Commission du 5 septembre 2003 modifiant la directive 91/414/CEE du Conseil en vue d'y inscrire les substances actives molinate, thirame et zirame [Union européenne]; Spanish: Directiva 2003/81/CE de la Comisión, de 5 de septiembre de 2003, por la que se modifica la Directiva 91/414/CEE del Consejo a fin de incluir las sustancias activas molinato, tiram y ziram) Official Journal of the European Union - Journal officiel de l'Union européenne, 6 Sep. 2003, Vol.46, No.L 224, p.29-31. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This Directive modifies Directive 91/414/EEC (see CIS 95-1942). It adds the substances molinate (as a herbicide only) and thiram and ziram (as fungicides/repellents only) to the list of active plant protection products. (101560)
CIS 03-519 Act concerning the conditions of accession of the Czech Republic, the Republic of Estonia, the Republic of Cyprus, the Republic of Latvia, the Republic of Lithuania, the Republic of Hungary, the Republic of Malta, the Republic of Poland, the Republic of Slovenia and the Slovak Republic and the adjustments to the Treaties on which the European Union is founded - Annex II: List referred to in Article 20 of the Act of Accession - 1. Free movement of goods - K: Chemicals [European Union]. (French: Acte relatif aux conditions d'adhésion à l'UE de la République tchèque, de la République d'Estonie, de la République de Chypre, de la République de Lettonie, de la République de Lituanie, de la République de Hongrie, de la République de Malte, de la République de Pologne, de la République de Slovénie et de la République de Slovaquie, et aux adaptations des traités ... - Annexe II: Liste visée à l'article 20 de l'Acte ... - 1. Libre circulation des marchandises - K: Substances chimiques [Union européenne]) Official Journal of the European Union - Journal officiel de l'Union européenne, 23 Sep. 2003, Vol.46, No.L 236, p.96-178. Illus. (In French) Internet: This part of Annex II to the Act of Accession of new Member States of the European Union introduces a new version of the multilingual tables relating to chemical substances, originally published in Annexes I-IV of Council Directive 67/548/EEC of 27 June 1967 on the approximation of laws, regulations and administrative provisions relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances (see CIS 92-23). It contains the equivalents in the 20 official languages of the European Union (after its enlargement in 2004) of: names of chemical elements; special classification categories for organic substances; symbols and indications of danger for dangerous substances and preparations; nature of special risks attributed dangerous substances and preparations (R-phrases); safety advice concerning dangerous substances and preparations (S-phrases). (101571)
CIS 03-520 Exposure threshold limits at the workplace 2005 [Switzerland]. (French: Valeurs limites d'exposition aux postes de travail 2005 [Suisse]; German: Grenzwerte am Arbeitsplatz 2005) Suva, Gesundheitsschutz, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, 2005. 147p. Illus. (In French, German) Internet: List of exposure limits at the workplace for 2005. Definitions of TLVs for the concentration of harmful substances; list of MAC values (including short-term exposure values); list of carcinogens; carcinogenic nitrosamines, passive smoking at the workplace, artificial mineral fibres, organic peroxides, inert substances, dust and gases. Definition of the biological exposure indices (BEI), biological monitoring of harmful substances, list of BEIs, BEI of carcinogens. Admissible threshold values for physical agents at the workplace: ionizing radiations, non-ionizing radiations, noise and vibrations, compressed air, infrared radiation. Replaces CIS 02-1014. The ILO archival copy is that of the 2003 version. (101693)
CIS 03-521 Cabinet Regulation No.539 of 27 Dec. 2001 - Regulations regarding requirements for labour protection when in contact with carcinogenic substances at workplaces [Latvia]. (Latvian: Noteikumi par darba aizsardzības prasībām, saskaroties ar kancerogēnām vielām darba vietās) Latvijas Republikas Saeimas un Ministru Kabineta Ziņotājs, 2002, No.3, p.263-269. Internet copy: 7p. (Latvian), 9p. (English). (In English, Latvian) Internet: Regulations issued under the Labour Protection Law of 2001 (see CIS 01-1571) on protection against carcinogenic hazards in the workplace. Contents: general provision; obligations of employers; determination and assessment of risk caused by carcinogens; measures in situation of foreseeable occupational exposure and emergency situations; hygiene and personal protective equipment; training and information of employees; duties and rights of employees; health supervision. In annex: list of processes in which contact with carcinogens is likely; occupational exposure limits for benzene, vinyl chloride monomer and hardwood dust. (101750)
CIS 03-522 Ordinance on the protection against dangerous substances - Dangerous Substances Ordinance and Annexes I, IV, V and VI [Germany]. (German: Verordnung zum Schutz vor gefährlichen Stoffen - Gefährstoffverordnung und Anhänge I, IV, V, VI) Kämper E., Henn M., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, eds., Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2000. 116p. Price: EUR 12.50., ISBN 3-89701-466-1 (In German) Internet: Following an introduction that refers to the regulatory texts on which the modifications to the ordinance on the protection against dangerous substances are based, the full text of the ordinance that became effective on 1 January 2000 and its appendices are reproduced. Aspects covered by the ordinance: objectives, scope and definitions; classification; labelling and packaging for placing on the market; prohibitions and limitations; general guidelines concerning the use of dangerous substances; additional guidelines concerning the use of carcinogens or substances having reproductive effects; administrative decisions; violations; final provisions. Appendices include: relevant European Community directives; substances whose manufacture and use are prohibited. Previous version (1991 Ordinance) abstracted: CIS 92-18. (101862)
CIS 03-523 Decision No.95/2003 on the control of activities that present a major accident hazard and in which dangerous substances are involved [Romania]. (Romanian: Hotărâre privind controlul activităţilor care prezintă pericole de accidente majore în care sunt implicate substanţe periculoase) Monitorul Oficial al României, 25 Feb. 2003, Vol.171, No.120, p.1-16. (In Romanian) Internet: Major hazard control regulations, introduced into Romanian legislation in application of the European Union Association Agreement. In annex: definition of terms; list of dangerous substances with corresponding safety distances (depending on quantity); principles to be respected during the elaboration of policies aimed at preventing and managing major hazard accidents involving dangerous chemicals. (101553)
CIS 03-524 Regulations concerning specialized training for work with explosives [Slovenia]. (Slovenian: Pravilnik o strokovni usposobljenosti za delo z eksplozivi) Uradni list Republike Slovenije, 21 Aug. 2003, Vol.13, No.82, p.12164-12168. (In Slovenian) Internet: Regulations on the types of work with explosives that require training, as well as on the conditions under which such training is offered. In annex: required contents of the courses offered; sample certificate of competence. (101557)
CIS 03-525 Radioactive Substances Act, 1993 [United Kingdom]. HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 1993. Price: GBP 7.25. Also, Internet document: 59p., ISBN 0-10-541293-7 (In English) Internet: This Law is the principal piece of legislation in the United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland) regulating the use of radioactive substances. Contents: definitions; role of inspectors; registration related to the use of radioactive materials and mobile radioactive apparatus; authorization of disposal and accumulation of radioactive waste; further obligations relating to registration or authorization; enforcement and prohibition notices; administrative and enforcement matters. In annex: list of specified radioactive elements; exercise of rights of entry and inspection. The Radioactive Substances Acts of 1948 and 1960 are repealed. (101742)
CIS 03-526 Act No.11/2001 of 12 Dec. 2001 establishing OSH policy matters related to ionizing radiation [Gabon]. (French: Loi n°11/2001 du 12 déc. 2001 fixant les orientations de la politique de prévention et de protection contre les rayonnements ionisants [Gabon]) Hebdo Informations (Gabon), 23 Feb. 2002, No.451, p.22-23. (In French) Internet: Contents of this law on radiation protection in the workplace (incl. mines), medical establishments and schools: scope; definitions; radiation safety organization from an organizational and technical perspective. (101747)
CIS 03-527 Cabinet Regulation No.149 of 9 Apr. 2002 - Regulations for protection against ionising radiation [Latvia]. (Latvian: Noteikumi par aizsardzību pret jonizējošo starojumu) Latvijas Republikas Saeimas un Ministru Kabineta Ziņotājs, 2002, No.11, p.83-107. Internet copy: 29p. (Latvian), 33p. (English). (In English, Latvian) Internet: This regulation on radiation safety was issued under the Law on radiation safety and nuclear safety. Contents: general provisions; radiation safety and nuclear safety measures; calculation of radiation dose; ionizing radiation dose limits (general working population, young workers 16-18 years of age, in case of specially authorized exposure of workers, general population); protection of workers, apprentices and students against ionizing radiation; radiation safety and nuclear safety requirements for sources of ionizing radiation; protection of the population against ionizing radiation; protection against natural sources of ionizing radiation (in buildings, workplaces, water, construction materials and products); protection against artificial sources of ionizing radiation (in buildings, water, food, animal feed, air); protection measures for reduction of exposure. (101749)
CIS 03-528 Decree No.43/03 of 4 July 2003 - Regulations on HIV/AIDS, employment and professional training [Angola]. (Portuguese: Decreto n.°43/03 de 4 de Julho - Regulamento sobre o HIV/SIDA, emprego e formação profissional) Diário da República, 4 July 2003, Series I, No.52, p.1417-1420. (In Portuguese) Internet: These regulations cover the workplace-related aspects of HIV/AIDS infection. OSH-related provisions include: provision of education, sensitization and prevention programmes in the workplace; prohibition of non-voluntary HIV testing and of discriminatory practices; right to medical treatment of HIV-positive workers; obligation of employers to offer alternative employment to HIV-positive workers when their condition requires this; prevention of HIV infection in the workplace; right to compensation of workers infected with HIV in the course of their professional activity. In annex: definitions. (101575)
CIS 03-529 Cabinet Regulation No.189/2002 of 21 May 2002 - Labour protection requirements when coming into contact with biological substances [Latvia]. (Latvian: Darba aizsardzības prasības, saskaroties ar bioloģiskajām vielām) Latvijas Republikas Saeimas un Ministru Kabineta Ziņotājs, 2002, No.12, p.140-. Internet copy: 27p. (Latvian), 28p. (English). (In English, Latvian) Internet: Regulations issued under the Labour Protection Law of 2001 (see CIS 01-1571) on protection against biological hazards in the workplace. Contents: general provisions; risk assessment; prevention and reduction of risk; list of workers who may be at risk of exposure to biological agents; informing supervisory and control authorities; labour protection requirements in medical and veterinary care institutions; special measures in laboratories, premises intended for animals and industrial processes; health surveillance of employees; informing, training, consultation and participation of employees. In annex: classification of harmful biological agents, by type (bacteria and similar organisms, viruses, parasites, fungi); containment measures and levels for the protection of workers against biological agents (in general and as part of industrial processes). (101748)
CIS 03-530 Ordinance on biological substances - Text of the ordinance; Community classification; Technical rules [Germany]. (German: Biostoffverordnung - Rechtsverordnung; Gemeinschaftliche Einstufung; Ausgewählte technische Regeln) Pipke R., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, ed., Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1999. 59p. Illus. Price: EUR 9.00., ISBN 3-89701-452-1 (In German) Internet: This booklet contains the texts of the ordinance on biological substances (see also CIS 00-332) and of its first modification, the consolidated unofficial community classification of biological substances as well as two technical rules: focussed prevention measures during laboratory work involving biological substances (TRBA 100) and minimum standards for general hygiene measures (TRBA 500). (101863)
Chemical data sheets and criteria documentsCIS 03-531 Beryllium and compounds. (French: Béryllium et composés) Falcy M., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2003, No.138, 4p. 29 ref. (In French) Internet: Because of its physical, chemical and mechanical properties, beryllium finds use in many industries, in particular in the preparation of alloys. The principal adverse health effect of exposure to beryllium dust is lung disease. Symptoms are either acute with irritant or inflammatory mechanisms, or chronic, in which case the disease is known as chronic berylliosis, characterized by an allergic nature probably favoured by genetic factors. The prevention of these serious diseases is of particular importance. Prevention of acute disorders appears to be effective, but prevention of chronic conditions is a lot more difficult and less effective. (101592)
CIS 03-532 Gallium. (French: Gallium) Pillière F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2003, No.138, 2p. 15 ref. (In French) Internet: Gallium is a widespread metal, mainly present in minerals. Industrial applications are mostly in the electronics industry, where gallium arsenide and phosphide are used. As shown in animal studies, the toxicity of gallium varies among species and gallium compounds. The main target organs are the lungs and the haemopoietic and immune systems. Reproductive effects have been observed with several compounds. There is little data on the toxicity of gallium itself during occupational exposures. (101593)
CIS 03-533 Germanium. (French: Germanium) Pillière F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2003, No.138, 2p. 12 ref. (In French) Internet: Germanium is a metal that exists mainly in the form of inorganic compounds for which there are numerous industrial applications, in particular in the electronics and optics industries. Germanium is generally considered to have low toxicity. The target organs in humans and animals appear to be the kidneys and the lungs. During exposures to dusts and fumes of the metal or its oxides in industrial settings, there have been no reports of any major pathologies among workers. (101594)
CIS 03-534 Indium. (French: Indium) Pillière F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2003, No.138, 2p. 11 ref. (In French) Internet: Indium is a rare metal whose industrial applications, mainly in the form of alloys, are limited. Its toxicity depends on the mode of exposure (its ingestion toxicity is particularly low) and on the specific compounds studied. Embryotoxic and teratogenic effects have been reported for several compounds. There have been no reports of cases of toxicity resulting from chronic exposures in industrial settings. (101595)
CIS 03-535 Selenium. (French: Sélenium) Pillière F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2003, No.138, 4p. 15 ref. (In French) Internet: Selenium is a non-metallic element that is widespread is nature. The following compounds of selenium are commonly used in industry: selenium dioxide (or selenious anhydride), selenium oxychlorides and sulfides, selenious acid, and sodium selenite and selenate. There are many industrial applications including in the chemical industry (catalysts), metallurgy (alloys), electrical equipment industry and electronics industry. Toxicity depends on the mode of absorption, the specific compound studied and on its solubility. In animal studies, there have been reports of irritation after inhalation exposure, as well as pancreatic and splenic hepatic effects. Several cases of intoxication have been reported during chronic exposures in industrial settings. (101596)
CIS 03-536 Persulfates and sulfites. (French: Perfulfates et sulfites) Rosenberg N., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2003, No.138, 3p. 28 ref. (In French) Internet: Persulfates and sulfites are sulfur-containing salts that find use because of their strong chemical reactivity. Persulfates are potent oxidizing agents, mainly used as bleaching accelerators in hairdressing. They may be responsible for contact dermatoses and respiratory symptoms (rhinitis and asthma) that are listed in French schedules of occupational diseases. Sulfites are used for their reducing properties in laundries, paper pulp manufacture, tanning, dyeing, industrial water treatment and photography. They constitute the food additives of the series E220 to E228 and are included as preserving agents in many medical drugs. They may give rise to intolerance symptoms during ingestion or inhalation (rhinitis, asthma, urticaria, Quincke's oedema or anaphylactic shock). The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined a daily admissible level for sulfites in food. Respiratory symptoms that appear in the context of occupational exposures to sulfites are listed in the schedules of occupational diseases. (101597)
CIS 03-537 Silver and silver compounds: Environmental aspects. Howe P.D., Dobson S., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2002. iii, 36p. Illus. 155 ref., ISBN 92-4-153044-8 (In English) Internet: This criteria document reviews ecotoxicity data on silver and its compounds. Contents: identity and physical/chemical properties; analytical methods for the measurement of silver in biological and abiotic samples; sources of environmental exposure; environmental transport, distribution and transformation; environmental levels; effects on aquatic and terrestrial organisms in the laboratory and field; effects evaluation; previous evaluations by international bodies. (101642)
CIS 03-538 Ethylene glycol: Human health aspects. Gomes R., Liteplo R., Meek M.E., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2002. iv, 38p. Illus. 134 ref., ISBN 92-4-153045-6 (In English) Internet: Conclusions of this criteria document: data available from acute poisoning indicate that the kidney is a critical organ for the toxicity of ethylene glycol; neurological and neurobehavioural disorders have been reported but available data are inadequate to assess potential neurological and immunological effects associated with ethylene glycol. Data from animal studies indicate that ethylene glycol has nephrotoxic and teratogenic effects; there is evidence of reproductive toxicity in mice (at very high doses) but not in rats. (101643)
CIS 03-539 Carbon disulfide. Newhook R., Meek M.E., Caldbick D., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2002. iv, 42p. Illus. 192 ref., ISBN 92-4-153046-4 (In English) Internet: Conclusions of this criteria document: the nervous system appears to be the critical target for carbon disulfide (reduced conduction velocity and impaired psychomotor performance). Other effects include irritation of the skin and eyes, alterations in serum lipids and blood pressure that are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, systemic opthalmological effects (effects on colour vision, damage of blood vessels of the retina) and, with higher exposures, increased mortality from heart disease. Several reports indicate decreased libido and/or impotence in males occupationally exposed to high concentrations, but there is no evidence of adverse reproductive effects. Data from animal studies indicate that carbon disulfide is embryotoxic and foetotoxic; no carcinogenic effects have been reported. (101644)
CIS 03-540 Arsine: Human health aspects. Czerczak S., Fishbein L., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2002. iv, 29p. 107 ref., ISBN 92-4-1530-47-2 (In English) Internet: Conclusions of this criteria document: the target organ of arsine poisoning is the haematopoietic system. Arsine induces haemolysis causing haemoglobinuria and subsequent kidney damage. Myocardial and pulmonary failures are other causes of death. Aneamia and increased leucocytosis is observed at various degrees. There are no data on the carcinogenicity or mutagenicity of arsine to humans or experimental animals. (101645)
CIS 03-541 Global mercury assessment. Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), UNEP Chemicals International Environmental House, 11-13 chemin des Anémones, 1219 Châtelaine, Genève, Switzerland, 2002. viii, 258p. Illus. 427 ref. (report); 71p. (appendix). (In English) Internet: This report contains extensive information on a number of topics relevant to the adverse impacts of mercury on human health and the environment, together with options to reduce these impacts. Contents: scope an purpose of the report; chemistry of mercury; toxicology; current mercury exposures and risk evaluation for humans; impact of mercury on the environment; sources and cycling of mercury to the global environment; current production and use of mercury; prevention and control technologies and practices; initiatives for controlling releases and limiting use and exposure; data and information gaps; options for addressing any significant global adverse impacts. The appendix gives an overview of existing and future national actions relevant to mercury, including legislation. (101647)
Training materials and practical informationCIS 03-542 Safety and health during work and leisure activities - Current situation and future prospects. (French: Sécurité et santé au travail et durant les loisirs - aujourd'hui et demain; German: Sicherheit und Gesundheit am Arbeitsplatz und in der Freizeit - heute und morgen; Italian: Sicurezza e salute sul lavoro e nel tempo libero: oggi e domani) Wüthrich P., Odermatt R., Suva, protection de la santé, Case postale, 1001 Lausanne, Switzerland, 5th ed., 2003. 59p. Illus. 16 ref. (In French, German, Italian) Internet: Contents of the booklet on safety and health during work and leisure activities: current situation with respect to safety at work and during leisure activities; occupational safety and hygiene at the enterprise level; new legal provisions concerning occupational physicians and other occupational safety specialists; legal basis for surveillance and organization of surveillance; role of SUVA (Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund); prevention of occupational safety and health problems and the health promotion at the enterprise level; safety during leisure activities; future prospects. Replaces CIS 99-1155. (101610)
CIS 03-543 5 steps to information, instruction and training. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Feb. 2002. 15p. (In English) Internet: This booklet provides guidance on the provision of information, instruction and training for employees. The type of information to be supplied is described along with those who need the information, when it should be supplied, how to provide the information and how to check that the information has been effective. Checklists cover what managers and supervisors need to know, legal requirements, and approaches to training. Replaces CIS 97-477. (101959)
CIS 03-544 Are you aware of the hazard potential of your enterprise? - A hazard portfolio enabling you to establish an overview. (French: Connaissez-vous le potentiel de danger de votre entreprise? - Le portefeuille des dangers vous permet d'obtenir une vue d'ensemble; German: Kennen Sie das Gafahrenpotenzial im Betrieb? - Das Gefahren - Portfolio verschafft einen Überblick; Italian: Conoscete il potenziale di pericolo nella vostra azienda? - Il portfolio dei pericoli: una panoramica) Suva, Gesundheitsschutz, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, 1st ed., Apr. 2003. 26p. Illus. 15 ref. (In French, German, Italian) Internet: Applying the "hazards portfolio" approach, one can get an overview of the risks within the enterprise and respond to the legal requirements in the field of occupational safety. This booklet presents the approach and explains the various steps involved for its' implementation. Contents: introduction and definitions; developing the hazards portfolio; applying the results of the hazards portfolio. Appendices include: forms for listing the hazards inventory and portfolio; hazard tables; example of hazards portfolio for a fictitious road surfacing enterprise. (101998)
CIS 03-545 Working together - Guidance on health and safety for contractors and suppliers. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, rev. ed., Jan. 2002. 19p. Illus. 17 ref., ISBN 0-7176-2253-3 (In English) Internet: Large firms often contract tasks such as installation, maintenance, waste disposal or cleaning of tanks to smaller firms. These jobs can be particularly risky because they are done on site and under conditions which are unfamiliar to the workers carrying them out. This booklet is aimed at small enterprises or independent workers involved in contract work and outlines the safety and health aspects to be taken into consideration when performing contract work for larger enterprises. Contents: general information on safety and health; legislation; what needs to be done in order to comply with legislation (health and safety policy statement; hazard evaluation; information and training; reporting of occupational accidents; insurance coverage; supervision; monitoring safety and health performance); self-appraisal check list. Replaces CIS 98-1235. (101823)
CIS 03-546 Occupational safety and health (Union's education handbook). Paranjape S.S., Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, ed., Bharatiya Shramshodh Mandal, 185 Shaniwar Peth, Pune 411030, India, 2003. 67p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Aimed at trade union officials, the purpose of this handbook is to provide basic information on occupational safety and health (OSH). Main topics: ILO Convention 155 and Recommendation 164 (see CIS 82-890), Conventions 161 and Recommendation 171 (see CIS 86-859) and other important conventions and recommendations; guidelines on the ILO-OSH 2001 management system; Indian OSH legislation; lists of industries involving hazardous processes; lists of notifiable occupational diseases; list of occupational diseases under workmen's compensation legislation; lists of hazardous substances; first aid; fire protection; housekeeping; personal protective equipment; ergonomics; safety audits; HIV/AIDS. (101898)
CIS 03-547 Understanding health surveillance at work - An introduction for employers. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Nov. 2001. 8p. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: Certain occupational health regulations in the United Kingdom require employers to provide health surveillance for their employees. Aimed at employers, this leaflet briefly explains health surveillance and provides enough basic information enabling them to decide whether they are subject to the regulations. (101501)
CIS 03-548 Quarry safety. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2003. 8p. Illus. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet comments the safety issues to be addressed in quarries. The following topics are covered in the form of a check-list with illustrations showing the correct and the wrong way to act: design; management; training; workforce involvement; management structure; continuing development; electricity; conveyors; lifting and handling; access on/off vehicles; sheeting; all-round visibility; excavation; edge protection. (101889)
CIS 03-549 A guide to the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Oct. 2001. 14p. Illus. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet summarizes the main requirements of the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996 (see CIS 97-364) and explains who has duties under them. Topics covered: requirements for safe places of work; precautions against falls and falling objects; work on structures; excavations; prevention of drowning; traffic routes; prevention and control of emergencies; welfare facilities; conditions of work; training and inspection. Reprint of CIS 96-2128 with updated references. (101506)
CIS 03-550 Analysis of severe construction accidents and preventive measures. (Korean: Geon sul jung dae jae sa rye wa dae chek) Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, 34-4 Gusan-dong, Bupyung-gu, Inchon 403-711, Republic of Korea, Sep. 2002. 171p. Illus. (In Korean) Internet: A total of 71 fatal accidents occurred in the construction sector in Korea during the first half of 2002. These included 33 falls, 11 cases of structure collapse, 8 cases of being caught in machines, 7 strikes by falling objects, 5 overturns, 4 cases of electric shock and 3 collisions. This manual consists of case descriptions of each of these accidents, including the circumstances that led to the accident, the direct accident causes and the recommended preventive measures. (101899)
CIS 03-551 The absolutely essential health and safety toolkit. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2000. 57p. Illus. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: Aimed at small construction contractors, this booklet contains checklists for addressing safety and health issues on construction sites. Topics: managing; reporting accidents; employing; subcontracting; access on site; welfare facilities; scaffolds; ladders; work on roofs; excavations; manual handling; on-site traffic; tools and machinery; hoists; emergencies; fire; hazardous substances; noise; hand-arm vibration; electricity and other services; protecting the public. (101931)
CIS 03-552 Skin problems in the printing industry. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, rev. ed., Mar. 2002. 11p. lllus. 9 ref., ISBN 0-7176-2322-X (In English) Internet: Dermatitis is a serious problem in the printing industry. In a recent study involving 1189 workers, 41% had suffered from a skin complaint at a given time and 10% had a current problem. In 58% of the cases, the skin problems were diagnosed as being work-related. This booklet provides practical advice on how to prevent skin problems, in particular dermatitis, in the printing industry. Contents: how dermatitis develops; symptoms; substances that can aggravate a skin condition; processes with a high occurrence of dermatitis; legislation; responsibilities of management; prevention; protective gloves; protective creams; skin inspection; health records; monitoring of skin problems. (101825)
CIS 03-553 Gas appliances - Get them checked, keep them safe. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Rev.ed., Apr. 2002. 6p. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: Each year, approximately 30 persons die in the United Kingdom from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by gas appliances which have not been properly installed or maintained. This leaflet describes the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning from gas appliances and outlines the legal requirements in the United Kingdom for the safe installation and use of these appliances. Replaces CIS 97-611. (101502)
CIS 03-554 Chromium and you. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Nov. 2001. 6p.1 ref. (In English) Internet: Contents on this leaflet on the hazards from exposure to chromium aimed at employees: what is chromium, and products and processes where it is found; modes of exposure; health hazards; preventive measures; health surveillance; legal obligations of the employer, particularly under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 1999 (see CIS 00-620); information of personnel. (101507)
CIS 03-555 Health surveillance programmes for employees exposed to metalworking fluids. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Sep. 2001. 12p. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: Health problems can arise if metalworking fluids are not properly used and controlled. Dermatitis is the most common disease among users of metalworking fluids, followed by respiratory complaints such as asthma among workers exposed to aerosols and mists of these fluids. This booklet provides an overview of health surveillance required under the provisions of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 1999 (see CIS 00-620) as they apply to persons exposed to metalworking fluids. Appendices include check lists for the detection of skin or breathing abnormalities. (101505)
CIS 03-556 The safe use of gas cylinders. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, rev. ed., Apr. 2002. 18p. Illus. 15 ref., ISBN 0-7176-2332-7 (In English) Internet: Accidents involving gas cylinders can cause serious injury or even death. This booklet provides simple practical advice on eliminating or reducing the risks associated with using gas cylinders. Contents: training; maintenance; repair; periodic examinations; handling and use; lifting; transport; storage; filling; legislation. Replaces CIS 01-69. (101824)
CIS 03-557 Maintaining portable electrical equipment in hotels and tourist accommodation. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Nov. 2002. 9p. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet describes basic precautions for ensuring the safety of portable electrical equipment in hotels and tourist accommodation. Presented in the form of answers to frequently-asked questions, it addresses the following issues: types of portable electrical equipment; potential hazards; visual inspection of damage; electrical knowledge; equipment inspection and testing; testing intervals; record keeping. Reprint of CIS 97-975 with updated references. (101504)
CIS 03-558 Do you use a steam/water pressure cleaner? You could be in for a shock!. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Oct. 2001. 6p. Illus. 2 ref. (In English) Internet: Contents of this leaflet on safe working methods with steam or water pressure cleaners: electrical safety; maintenance; non-electrical risks; information and training. (101503)
CIS 03-559 Brazilian ergonomics. (Portuguese: Ergonomia brasileira) Garcia C.A., Fundacentro, Rua Capote Valente 710, São Paulo, SP 05409-002, Brazil, 2002. 21p. Illus. 23 ref. (In Portuguese) Internet: This document presents the Brazilian approach to ergonomics, which contrasts with the mainstream American approach (adaptation of man to machine) and the French approach (man-task system). In the Brazilian approach, ergonomics is defined as work carried out according to the laws of nature. It is based on an anthropometric model. (101619)
CIS 03-560 Plant layout. (Portuguese: Plant layout) Garcia C.A., Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego, Fundacentro, Rua Capote Valente 710, São Paulo, SP 05409-002, Brazil, 3rd ed., 2002. 370p. Illus. 87 ref. Price: BRL 10.00. (In Portuguese) Internet: This is a complete rewriting of the earlier version of the manual on plant layout analysed under CIS 84-1174. Contents: theoretical section: general concepts, layout principles, flows and dimensioning; logistics (enterprise logistics principles, storage, transport); signalling; industrial layouts (communication systems, fluid piping systems, instrumentation and equipment); planning of premises (floors, separation walls, roofing, foundations, loads); integration of different sectors (production area, administration and relaxation area, green areas, and parking and in-plant traffic areas); practical example of the layout of a rivet plant (project data collection, machinery dimensioning, raw materials required, flow study, calculating the dimensions of the different areas). (101620)
CIS 03-561 Understanding ergonomics at work. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, rev. ed., Jan. 2003. 12p. Illus. 17 ref., ISBN 0-7176-2599-0 (In English) Internet: The purpose of this booklet on ergonomics at work is to attempt to reduce occupational accidents and diseases, and to improve productivity by adapting the task to the worker. Contents: definition of ergonomics; how ergonomics can improve occupational safety and health; workplace problems that can be solved by ergonomics (work at screens, manual handling, stress, work time schedules); identifying ergonomic problems; what to do when ergonomic problems are identified; case studies of ergonomic improvements (engine assembler, receptionist working at a screen). (101827)
CIS 03-562 Violence - Occupational hazards in hospitals. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Apr. 2002. iv, 10p. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: Recent data indicate that hospital workers are at increased risk for experiencing violence in the workplace. This booklet aimed at increasing worker and employer awareness of the risk factors for violence in hospitals and at providing strategies for reducing exposure to these factors. Topics covered: types of workplace violence; workers at risk; areas where violence may occur; effects of violence (injury, disability, psychological trauma, death); risk factors; prevention strategies for employers; dealing with the consequences of violence; safety tips for hospital workers; case reports of effective strategies. (101537)
Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisualsCIS 03-563 Personal protective equipment - Non respiratory. Mandre M.K., INDOSHNEWS, July-Sep. 2002, Vol.7, No.3, p.1-5. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: This article presents an overview of non-respiratory personal protective equipment (safety helmets, ear and eye protectors, safety gloves, protective clothing, safety shoes). It also emphasizes the importance of proper care and effective use of these types of personal protective equipment. (101896)
CIS 03-564 General strategy for the prevention of occupational hazards. (Spanish: Estrategia general de prevención de los riesgos profesionales) Malchaire J., Protección y seguridad, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.45, No.268, p.12-16. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: The overall strategy for projects aimed at preventing occupational hazards has to define the participants, the type of analysis or prevention they have to perform, their knowledge and their complementarity with other actors. The occupational hazards prevention procedure is based on 10 concepts: risk factors; resulting injury; severity rate; exposure length; injury probability; risk assessment; acceptability of the risk; prevention (measures taken to eliminate the risk factor); protection (personal protective equipment) and medical supervision. The proposed strategy is based on four steps: early diagnostics (identification of major problems); observation (studying of unsolved problems); analysis (search of further solutions) and collaboration with an expert. Translated from French. (101658)
CIS 03-565 Planning of safety training in the enterprise. (Spanish: Planificación de la formación en seguridad en la empresa) Carol Llopart S., Prevención, Jan.-Mar. 2003, No.163, p.62-71. Illus. 3 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: One of the main problems in enterprise safety training is that it is carried out in a dispersed and unplanned manner. This article explains how to prepare a strategic safety training plan. Main topics covered: identifying training needs; defining training objectives; preparing and analysing the draft training plan; presenting the training plan to senior management, middle management and to members of the safety and hygiene committee; implementation and follow-up; evaluation of the results. Advantages and disadvantages of several training strategies are presented in tabular form. (101790)
CIS 03-566 Fatal occupational accidents reported to the CNSS between 1996 and 1999: Analytical study. (French: Les accidents du travail mortels déclarés à la CNSS entre 1996 et 1999: étude analytique) Ben Mansour H., Hajaiej K., Chabbouh K., Nouaigui H., Ben Laiba M., SST - Santé et Sécurité au Travail, Jan. 2003, No.24, p.20-26. Illus. 10 ref. (In French) Internet: This cross-sectional retrospective survey analysed fatal occupational accidents (FOAs) occurring in the period 1996-1998 and reported to the Tunisian national social security fund (Caisse nationale de sécurité sociale). A total of 531 cases was analysed. Data by activity show that close to 50% of FOAs occurred in two sectors, manufacturing industries (24.7%) and construction (24%). The analysis differentiates between FOAs occurring within the enterprise and those occurring outside (traffic and commuting accidents). For FOAs occurring within the enterprise, a breakdown is provided by sector of activity, time of the accident, day of the week, place, type of accident and the material causal element. The specific case of FOAs in the construction sector is discussed in a separate section. A breakdown of traffic and commuting accidents is provided by time and month of occurrence, place and means of transport. Recommendations are made with respect to priority actions, in particular in the construction sector. (101783)
CIS 03-567 Trends in work-related fatalities in Australia, 1982-1992. Driscoll T., Mitchell R., Mandryk J., Healey S., Hendrie L., Hull B., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2002, Vol.18, No.1, p.21-33. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to examine whether there were any significant changes in the number, incidence and circumstances of work-related traumatic deaths over an 11-year period in Australia. The analysis used data from two separate studies of work-related fatalities, one covering the years 1982-1984 and the other 1989-1992. Both studies were based on the same sources of data and used similar study methodologies. It was found that the overall rate of workplace deaths declined steadily over the period 1982 to 1992. The overall rate of work-road deaths also decreased over the same period, but not as smoothly as for workplace deaths. The average rate during the more recent period was 17% lower than the average rate for the first period (5.5 versus 6.7 deaths per 100,000 persons per year). 30-40% of this decline in working deaths may be due to changes in industry structure and occupation distribution. (101683)
CIS 03-568 Standardization and occupational safety and health. (French: Normalisation et santé sécurité au travail) Guérin S., Cahier Pratique Tissot - Guide de la santé, sécurité au travail, Apr. 2003, No.14, p.1-32 (whole issue). (In French) Internet: This issue is devoted to the topic of standardization in the field of occupational safety and health. Contents: types of standards; historical development of standardization; definitions; organization of standardization institutions at the French, European and international levels; usefulness of standards; safety standards. (101770)
CIS 03-569 Towards an international standard on occupational health and safety management. Abad J., Mondelo P.R., Llimona J., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2002, Vol.8, No.3, p.309-319. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: As a result of the need for companies to manage occupational health and safety and in the absence of a globally accepted international standard, numerous organizations have developed their own standards or guidelines. However, the resultant dispersion is a source of confusion. This article examines the current situation with respect to available European management systems and the emerging trends in the development of an international standard. The special case of Spain is discussed, where comprehensive occupational safety and health legislation and safety may hinder the adoption of an international model by Spanish companies. (101833)
CIS 03-570 Estudios de la Seguridad Social - 30th Anniversary Edition. (Spanish: Estudios de la Seguridad Social - 30o aniversario) International Social Security Association (ISSA), Estudios de la Seguridad Social, 2002, No.90, p.9-234 (whole issue). Illus. 22 ref. + CD-ROM. (In Spanish) Internet: Collection of articles on trends in social security in Latin America, published on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the journal. Main topics covered: profile of social security during the 20th century; study of the health service cost factors; social security reforms; social security planning in industrialized and developing countries; social security of the Americas in the global context; influence of demographics and globalization; technical aspects of work-related risk insurance; administrative problems of social security in Latin America; health benefit reforms in Latin American social security systems. An attached CD-ROM presents information on the AISS, and contains articles from several issues of the journal in PDF format, including the present issue. (101886)
CIS 03-571 Health, safety and environmental promotions in Zimbabwe. Chisenga S., On Guard, Mar. 2002, Vol.7, No.1, p.3-8. Illus. (In English) Internet: This article presents an overview of national occupational safety and health policies in Zimbabwe as well as the outline of a proposed programme to train trainers in occupational safety and health (OSH). Contents: introduction; key linkages and programmes; national goals; modules for training OSH trainers (target group, duration of the course, course objectives, importance of the support of senior management, course topics, course evaluation). (101891)
CIS 03-572 Hazard identification and risk management - A strategic tool for marketing health and safety in industry. Mvududu J.C., On Guard, Mar. 2002, Vol.7, No.1, p.9-16. Illus. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: Hazard identification and risk assessment activities are key aspects of the successful implementation of a safety, health and environmental management system. Contents of this review article on hazard identification and risk management: definitions of hazard identification and risk assessment; distinctions between risk, hazard and danger; risk assessment principles; understanding risk assessment; outline of the risk assessment programme implemented by a mining and smelting industrial group. (101892)
CIS 03-573 Planned preventive maintenance programmes - An occupational health and safety intervention tool. Sibanda M., On Guard, Mar. 2002, Vol.7, No.1, p.17-22. Illus. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: Contents of this overview on planned maintenance programmes: responsibilities of employers with respect to occupational safety and health; causes of accidents; chain of events leading to accidents; definition of planned preventive maintenance; outline of a planned preventive maintenance programme. (101893)
CIS 03-574 Setting up your own audit programme. Das D.K., INDOSHNEWS, Apr.-June 2002, Vol.7, No.2, p.5-13. Illus. 2 ref. (In English) Internet: This article presents a strategy for designing and implementing an occupational safety and health audit programme. Contents: establishing the audit programmes objectives; matching the resources required to meet the audit programme's needs; tools and techniques for the design and implementation of audit programmes; programme record-keeping; interviewing techniques. (101895)
CIS 03-575 Standardization in the field of personal protective equipment. Noetel K.H., Jackisch P., Verein zur Förderung der Arbeitssicherheit in Europa e.V., Kommission Arbeitsschutz und Normung (KAN), Geschäftsstelle, Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany, 2nd ed., Jan. 2002. 221p. Illus., ISBN 3-88383-619-2 (In English) Internet: The issue of standardization of personal protective equipment (PPE) still being of relevance, the report analysing the current state of standardization of personal protective equipment in the European Union published in 1997 (see CIS 00-997) has been updated in line with the latest developments. Topics covered: fundamental principles of PPE standardization; survey on PPE standardization; analysis of standardization for different PPE types; summary assessment of PPE standardization based on a questionnaire. In appendices: list of PPE standards, draft standards and standardization projects; gaps in standards related to the different types of PPE. (101675)
CIS 03-576 Proceedings of International Workshop on Promoting Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems in China. (Chinese: Cujin Zhongguo zhiye anquan jiankang guanli tixi guoji yantao hui: Huiyi wenji) National Center for Safety Science and Technology, 17 Huixin Xijie, 100029 Beijing, China, 2002. 215p. (In Chinese, English) Internet: Proceedings of an international workshop held in Beijing, China, 2-4 July 2002. A total of 25 presentations were made, covering various aspects of OSH management systems from a Chinese and the ILO perspective. (101691)
CIS 03-577 Effective design of workplace risk communication. Ferguson E., Bibby P., Leaviss J., Weyman A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. viii, 161p. Illus. 64 ref. Price: GBP 25.00., ISBN 0-7176-2176-6 (In English) Internet: This report focuses on the design of risk communication leaflets. Qualitative and quantitative data from six studies are reported. These studies focused on risk communication design with respect to noise (use of ear defenders) and manual handling. Three essential design features of leaflets were explored: usability (readability), usefulness (relevance) and framing. Framing refers to presenting the same risk information in either a negative way (what you will lose if you do not follow safe working practices) or positive way (what you will gain from following safe working practices). The results showed that some current Health and Safety Executive (HSE) leaflets were not understood properly. Furthermore, the extent to which a leaflet was perceived as useful and useable was associated with better compliance with safe working practices. Positively-framed messages were also generally found to improve compliance. It was shown that it is possible to redesign leaflets to make them objectively and subjectively more useable and useful. A five-step procedure for achieving this purpose is provided. (101796)
CIS 03-578 The role of managerial leadership in determining workplace safety outcomes. O'Dea A., Flin R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. vi, 67p. 141 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2609-1 (In English) Internet: This review of theoretical and empirical literature examines the role of managerial leadership in determining organizational safety outcomes. Three different levels of management, with special responsibilities for safety, were identified: senior managers, middle level managers (including site managers) and supervisors (also known as front-line managers or team leaders). The unique contribution of each level to organizational safety outcomes was explored and paths of influence between them were examined. A holistic model was developed, showing how the leadership factors at each level interact in order to influence health and safety outcomes. Management styles characterized by openness and flexibility are likely to be the most effective in promoting a positive safety climate and in increasing worker commitment to the organization. (101966)
CIS 03-579 Friction in temporary works. Gorst N.J.S., Williamson S.J., Pallett P.F., Clark L.A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. vi, 54p. Illus. 4 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2613-X (In English) Internet: During initial assembly, temporary structures often rely upon friction to provide lateral stability. This report presents the results of an investigation to establish practical values of the coefficient of friction for commonly used materials in temporary structures. Friction tests were undertaken on 260 combinations of different material faces used in temporary structures, including both dry and saturated timber. The tests generated data for combinations for which no codified data exist, as well as data which could be compared with existing British and German codified data. For material combinations for which codified data exist, the friction values obtained in current research projects tended to lie between the maximum and minimum bound code values, but closer to the minimum values. Recommendations are made for code friction values for various material combinations. (101968)
CIS 03-580 European social statistics - Accidents at work and work-related health problems - Data 1994-2000. (French: Statistiques sociales européennes - Accidents du travail et problèmes de santé liés au travail - Données 1994-2000; German: Europäische Sozialstatistik - Arbeitsunfälle und arbeitsbedingte Gesundheitsbeschwerden - Daten 1994-2000) Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, 2002. 236p. Illus. Price: EUR 34.00 (excluding VAT)., ISBN 92-894-3601-8 (In English, French, German) Internet: This publication presents the detailed results of the following two harmonized statistical data collections on occupational safety and health in the European Union (EU) carried out by Eurostat together with the EU Member States: the European Statistics on Accidents at Work (ESAW) collected annually since 1994 and the ad hoc module on accidents at work and work-related health problems in the 1999 EU Labour Force Survey (LFS). (101936)
CIS 03-581 Analysis of compensation claims related to health and safety issues. Peebles L., Heasman T., Robertson V., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. xii, 79p. Illus. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2612-1 (In English) Internet: This report details the findings of a research project involving the collection and analysis of data on workers' compensation claims (accident and injury-related) conducted via trade unions and specialized law firms. The study addressed the following issues in particular: main types of compensation claim; and main injuries sustained; industry sectors which attracted the highest proportion of claims; work activities which gave rise to the most claims; breaches of the Regulations most likely to attract claims; length of claim settlements; average cost of claims. (101967)
CIS 03-582 Medical confidentiality and the protection of data used for the evaluating the damages resulting from injury. (Spanish: Secreto médico y protección de datos en valoración del daño corporal) Instituto Nacional de Medicina y Seguridad del Trabajo, Escuela Nacional de Medicina del Trabajo, Madrid, Spain, 2001. 108p. 26 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Papers presented at a conference on medical confidentiality and the protection of data used for the evaluating the damages resulting from injury (held in Madrid, Spain, 26 Oct. 2001), and report of discussions. Topics addressed: definitions of medical confidentiality and damages resulting from injury; penal consequences of non-compliance with medical confidentiality; situations where medical confidentiality has to be honoured and where it must be waived; role of the physician evaluating the damages resulting from injury; medical assessment; sensitive data; ethical and aspects of medical confidentiality. (101612)
CIS 03-583 The changing organization of work and the safety and health of working people - Knowledge gaps and research directions. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Apr. 2002. xi, 30p. Illus. 78 ref. (In English) Internet: Following a short description of changes in organizational practices and of the link between organization of work and workers' safety and health, this document presents four areas of research of the National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) adopted by the NIOSH: data collection on changes in organization of work; research on the effects of the new organizational practices on occupational safety and health; intervention research targeting organizational practices to improve worker safety and health; promote organization of work as a field of study within occupational safety and health. (101539)
CIS 03-584 Social protection matters. (French: La protection sociale: ça compte!; Spanish: La protección social cuenta) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, June 2003. 16p. Illus., ISBN 92-2-114203-5 (En), ISBN 92-2-214203-9 (fr), ISBN 92-2-314203-2 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: First issue of the ILO Social Protection Sector newsletter containing information on the activities of various units of this sector. In this issue activities of the International Migration Programme, the InFocus Programme on SafeWork, the Programme on HIV/AIDS and the World of Work, the Financial, Actuarial and Statistical Services Branch, the Social Security Policy and Development Branch and the Conditions of Work Branch are detailed, and a report on social security in South-East Asia and the Pacific and current projects in this area is presented. (101661)
CIS 03-585 Occupational safety and health and European integration. (German: Arbeitsschutz und europäische Integration) Gerlinger T., Leske + Budrich, Opladen, Germany, 2000. 492p. Illus. Approx. 1100 ref. Price: DEM 76.00., ISBN 3-8100-2720-0 (In German) Internet: Since the end of the 1980s, the European Union has adopted a series of innovative measures concerning occupational safety and hygiene that member states are required to transpose into their legislation. The integration of European directives into national legislations is not always easy. This publication takes the example of Germany and the United Kingdom in order to examine the objectives as well as the approach followed by governmental and similar organizations as well as non-governmental organizations with respect to implementation and analyses the results obtained. Contents: main aspects of European policy concerning occupational safety and hygiene; legislative framework in Germany and Great Britain; implementation of European directives in Germany and Great Britain; European policy with respect to occupational safety and hygiene after Maastricht; comparative study of the integration of the European directives concerning occupational safety and hygiene in Germany and Great Britain. (101674)
CIS 03-586 ISO 9000 and beyond - Impact on OSH performance in a manufacturing enterprise. (French: ISO 9000 et après - Impact sur la performance en SST dans l'entreprise manufacturière) Dionne-Proulx J., Carrière J.B., Beauchamp Y., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 3C2, Canada, Feb. 2003. v, 83p. Illus. 65 ref., ISBN 2-551-21720-2 (In French) Internet: The objective of this study was to analyse the impact of ISO 9000 on the performance of enterprises with respect to occupational safety and health (OSH). Phone interviews of 230 enterprises (ISO certified and non-certified) were carried out, followed by field visits to 28 enterprises. The collected data were analysed statistically. In the subset of certified enterprises, it was found that the most significant factors influencing OSH performance were profitability, having been in business for 20 years or more, good labour relations and low workforce turnover. There were no significant differences in the level of OSH performance between certified and non-certified enterprises. (101727)
CIS 03-587 Annual report 2000 - Occupational Health Department. Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 2000. 75p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This report provides a review of the activities of the Singapore Occupational Health Department (previously: Department of Industrial Health) in 2000 in the following areas: occupational diseases; medical surveillance; industrial hygiene; occupational health programmes at workplaces; complaints and consultations; statutory requirements; training and health education; surveys and studies. The new organization is also presented. Appendices include: summary of activities; establishment and staff lists; departmental publications. (101735)
CIS 03-588 Annual report 2000 - Occupational Safety Department and OSH Training and Promotion Centre. Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Safety Department, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 2000. 37p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This report describes the new organization and functions of the Singapore Occupational Safety Department and OSH Training and Promotion Centre following the merger of the Industrial Safety and Industrial Health Departments and presents an overview of industrial safety for 2000. Activities of the Department include enforcement and regulatory activities, monitoring programmes, OSH training and promotion programmes, participation in three advisory committees and special projects and studies. Appendices include statistics on industrial accidents for the 1991-2000 period, lists of staff, committee members and projects and studies, and a list of papers and talks presented by the staff. (101736)
CIS 03-589 Identification of risks in occupational settings through the participation of workers - DEPARIS approach. (French: DEpistage PArticipatif des RISques dans une situation de travail - Méthode DEPARIS) Malchaire J., Médecine du travail & Ergonomie / Arbeidsgezondheitszorg & Ergonomie, 2002, Vol.XXXIX, No.4, p.149-167. 22 ref. (In French) Internet: This article describes an approach for the identification of hazards suited for small enterprises, involving the participation of workers. The working conditions are systematically reviewed and all aspects influencing the ease, efficiency and satisfaction at work are discussed with the aim of identifying practical prevention measures. Points needing further investigation with the assistance of specialists or experts are highlighted. The procedure is followed during a meeting of key operators and technical managers. The approach is shown to be simple, quick to implement and low in cost. It could play a significant role in the development of a dynamic risk management programme and a participatory culture in the enterprise. (101765)
CIS 03-590 Globalizing technical standards - Impact and challenges for occupational health and safety. (French: La mondialisation des normes techniques - Impact et enjeux pour la santé et la sécurité au travail) Koukoulaki T., Boy S., eds., European Trade Union Technical Bureau for Health and Safety (TUTB), 5 Bd du Roi Albert II, 1210 Brussels, Belgium, 2002. 101p. Illus. 10 ref. Price: EUR 20.00., ISBN 2-930003-44-8 (En), ISBN 2-930003-45-6 (fr) (In English, French) Internet: This publication sets the European standardization process in its changing context where European standards are increasingly being framed at the international level. Previously, standardization was essentially a national exercise. Now, industrial production is almost an European and international activity and in a globalized market, manufacturers see international standards as a key to gain market access and boost trade. This publication highlights certain aspects of the current debate on how European and international standards, as developed by ISO and IEC, can affect the safety and health of Europe's workers. (101795)
CIS 03-591 Cost-benefit analysis of occupational safety and health in the enterprise. (Polish: Analiza kosztów i korzyści BHP w przedsiębiorstwie) Rzepecki J., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 26p. Illus. 15 ref., ISBN 83-7373-025-7 (In Polish) Internet: This booklet describes the principles of calculating the costs of occupational safety and health. Cost factors include: costs of insurance for occupational accidents and diseases; costs resulting from dangerous and strenuous working conditions; costs of prevention. It also presents an occupational health and safety cost-benefit model, as well as a computer program helpful for conducting this analysis. (101801)
CIS 03-592 Organizational changes in the areas of occupational safety, transport safety, occupational health and environmental protection. (German: Organisationaler Wandel im Arbeits-, Verkehrs-, Gesundheits- und Umweltschutz) Trimpop R.M., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1999. 327p. Illus. Approx. 1000 ref. Price: EUR 26.00., ISBN 3-89701-424-6 (In German) Internet: This report discusses the organizational changes that enterprises in Germany have to address in the areas of occupational safety, transport safety, occupational health and environmental protection. This research is based on the "Motivating Systems Theory", from which various prevention interventions involving workers' participation have been developed. Nine field studies were conducted to evaluate the effects of these interventions on attitudes, behaviour and organizational processes. The consequences of these findings on future research in occupational safety, transport safety, occupational health and environmental protection are discussed. (101864)
CIS 03-593 1999 Directory of OSH services - Federal Republic of Germany. (German: Dienststellenverzeichnis Arbeitschutz - Bundesrepublik Deutschland - Ausgabe 1999) Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1999. 245p. Index., ISBN 3-89701-410-6 (In German) Internet: This directory contains addresses, areas of activity and names of responsible staff of the following German governmental institutions: Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs; Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and Accident Research; labour inspectorates of the Länder and mines inspectorates; professional mutual accident insurance associations of industry and agriculture; technical surveillance associations. Alphabetic index. (101865)
CIS 03-594 Indicators and parameters for the evaluation of the quality of occupational safety and health with a view of their integration in occupational safety and health management systems. (German: Indikatoren und Parameter zur Bewertung der Qualität des Arbeitsschutzes im Hinblick auf Arbeitsschutzmanagementsysteme) Hamacher W., Jochum C., Lins S., Ritter A., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 295p. Illus. 79 ref. Price: EUR 22.50., ISBN 3-89701-866-7 (In German) Internet: The implementation of occupational safety and health (OSH) management systems depends on the availability of indicators and parameters allowing the evaluation of the results and targeted improvements. The aim of this research project was to develop a list of general OSH indicators and parameters that are not dependant on the specific aspects of the organization. A system of such indicators and corresponding parameters was developed, allowing the evaluation of the potential benefits of implementing OSH management systems, as well as the processes involved and the expected results. (101880)
CIS 03-595 Standards for the XXIst century - Social security. (French: Des normes pour le XXIe siècle - Sécurité sociale; Spanish: Normas para el siglo XXI - Seguridad social) Humblet M., Silva R., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2002. x, 70p., ISBN 92-2-113471-7 (En), ISBN 92-2-213471-0 (fr), ISBN 92-2-313471-4 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: At the ILO Conference of June 2001, a general discussion was held aimed at defining an ILO vision of social security at the dawn of the XXIst century. This publication is intended to offer technical assistance to member States in the area of social security and to ensure a better understanding of ILO Conventions and recommendations on social security. Main topics covered: characteristic of social security standards; protection afforded in different branches of social security (medical care, sickness, unemployment, old-age, benefit, invalidity, survivor's and employment injury benefits); social security of migrant workers . (101882)
CIS 03-596 Extending social security: Challenges for Cape Verde. Ferreira O., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2002. v, 26p. 16 ref., ISBN 92-2-113430-X (In English) Internet: Cape Verde gained its independence from Portugal in 1975. Government policies in the country have, however, moved away from the previous welfare state model and are based on the notion that the State should not be the sole source of social security and that the private sector and civil society should play an important role. Thus, social insurance schemes financed by contributions from employers and workers have been established for private sector workers; they provide benefits in respect of old age, invalidity, survivors, maternity and employment injury, and there are additional allowances for children. There is a separate scheme for civil servants and for employees in the banking sector. The study notes the role of the Government as the basic guarantor of social security and the significance of its programmes for the poor who represent 30% of the population. However, the scope of the social insurance scheme should be extended to the self-employed and the informal sector. A chapter of this report describes the system of compensation of occupational accidents end diseases. (101884)
CIS 03-597 Safety in numbers - Pointers for global safety culture at work. (French: La sécurité en chiffres - Indications pour une culture mondiale de la sécurité au travail; Spanish: La seguridad en cifras - Sugerencias para una cultura general en materia de seguridad en el trabajo) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. 37p. Illus. 41 ref. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: According to recent ILO estimates, approximately two million people die from occupational causes every year, 32% from work-related cancer, 23% from work-related circulatory diseases, 19% from occupational accidents and 17% from work-related infectious diseases. The cost of work accidents and illnesses is estimated at over USD 1.25 trillion (or 4% of the world GDP). This document gives an overview of statistics and costs of occupational accidents and diseases worldwide and presents the ILO's strategy to promote decent work and a global safety culture by improving the implementation of its safety and health standards. (101885)
CIS 03-598 Perceptions of and trust in the Health and Safety Executive as a risk regulator. Pidgeon N., Walls J., Weyman A., Horlick-Jones T., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. xiv, 121p. Illus. 41 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2185-5 (In English) Internet: The purpose of the research programme summarized in this report was to establish insight into the trust profile in the United Kingdom of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) as a risk regulator, by directly engaging with and eliciting the views of a representative sample of the general public. In view of the exploratory nature of this work, the combined methods approach was adopted. In the first instance, open-ended elicitation techniques were applied. Insights derived from this initial phase formed the basis of a broader quantitative survey designed to validate the findings on a larger, stratified, sample of respondents. The purpose of the survey was to benchmark a range of salient aspects of HSE's trust profile. (101916)
CIS 03-599 Job retention and vocational rehabilitation: The development and evaluation of a conceptual framework. James P., Gunningham I., Dibben P., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. x, 87p. Illus. 131 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2204-5 (In English) Internet: The purpose of this study was to identify the issues which employers need to address in partnership with their employees in order to facilitate the continued employment of workers with physical or mental impairment through the provision of vocational rehabilitation. Phase one consisted of the development of a framework document to identify the main issues, and the presentation of this document to a conference of stakeholders. Subsequently, in phase two, a review of the available research evidence was conducted concerning the validity of this framework document and the extent to which employers do currently undertake the types of activities in it. Overall, the evidence lent some support to the propositions put forward in the framework document. (101917)
CIS 03-600 Identification of industry sectors in which employers perceive their business operates. Wright M., Marsden S., Collier D., Hopkins C., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. xii, 111p. Illus. 31 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2208-8 (In English) Internet: This study undertakes a fundamental review of the guidance offered by the HSE, particularly with regard to the needs of small firms. It involved a review of past research, exploratory discussions with employers and a large postal survey. Employers preferences for the structure of HSE publications, communication and publicity methods were identified. An analysis of HSE's current suite of publications was combined with an evaluation of the HSE's website and e-commerce activities, allowing the highlighting of gaps in specific guidance in a number of sectors and activities. (101918)
CIS 03-601 Contractorisation - Aspects of health and safety in the supply chain. Winkler C., Irwin J.N., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. x, 36p. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2213-4 (In English) Internet: This report investigates the reality behind the perceptions within the Health and Safety Executive that subcontracting is increasing health and safety risks, particularly in small enterprises. An investigation was undertaken with selected companies from the events, food processing and health service sectors. Two supply chains were selected in each of these sectors, consisting of a combination of customer and/or second tier suppliers. Questionnaires were used in face-to-face meetings with two or three individuals in each company, complemented by discussion to elicit wider views and opinions. The report provides information and recommendations that may be used as the basis for developing future guidance and action. (101920)
CIS 03-602 Feasibility study for a tri-regional programme on work and health: Report from Southern Africa. Svedberg U., National Institute for Working Life, International Development Cooperation, 11279 Stockholm, Sweden, 2001. 89p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This publication is part of a series of reports that present the results of a feasibility study for establishing long-term tri-regional collaborative programmes on working life and working conditions involving Southern Africa, Central America and Sweden. The objectives of the study were: to identify and describe both national and regional resources related to occupational safety and health; identify hazardous sectors of activity and areas for research, training and development within each country; identify potential collaboration partners. The present report covers the study carried out in Southern Africa (South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania). It involved field visits and meetings with over 25 organizations including ministries and other government bodies, trade unions and industry associations. It contains summary data on occupational safety and health in each country, together with field visit reports. (101937)
CIS 03-603 Feasibility study for a tri-regional programme on work and health: Report from Central America. Wesseling C., National Institute for Working Life, International Development Cooperation, 11279 Stockholm, Sweden, 2001. 106p. (In English) Internet: This publication is part of a series of reports that present the results of a feasibility study for establishing long-term tri-regional collaborative programmes on working life and working conditions involving Southern Africa, Central America and Sweden. The objectives of the study were: to identify and describe both national and regional resources related to occupational safety and health; identify hazardous sectors of activity and areas for research, training and development within each country; identify potential collaboration partners. The present report covers the study carried out in Central America (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Panama). It involved field visits and meetings with ministries and other government bodies, trade unions and industry associations. Contents: overview of the labour and occupational health situation in Central America; regional institutions, organizations and programmes; national institutions and programmes; summary, conclusions and recommendations. (101938)
CIS 03-604 Tri-regional programme on work and health - Summary of feasibility studies and Stockholm workshop. Elgstrand K., Hogstedt C., National Institute for Working Life, International Development Cooperation, 11279 Stockholm, Sweden, 2001. 23p. (In English) Internet: This publication is part of a series of reports that present the results of a feasibility study for establishing long-term tri-regional collaborative programmes on working life and working conditions involving Southern Africa, Central America and Sweden. The objectives of the study were: to identify and describe both national and regional resources related to occupational safety and health; identify hazardous sectors of activity and areas for research, training and development within each country; identify potential collaboration partners. The present report summarizes the reports of the feasibility studies carried out in Southern Africa (CIS 03-602) and Central America (CIS 03-603), as well as the results of a workshop held on 3-5 April 2001 in Stockholm, Sweden. Appendices include: workshop participants; workshop agenda; discussion paper describing the proposed tri-regional programme; final minutes of the Stockholm workshop. (101939)
CIS 03-605 Report from workshop on work and health - Malawi, September 2001. Hogstedt C., Elgstrand K., National Institute for Working Life, International Development Cooperation, 11279 Stockholm, Sweden, 2001. 13p. (In English) Internet: This publication is part of a series of reports that present the results of a feasibility study for establishing long-term tri-regional collaborative programmes on working life and working conditions involving Southern Africa, Central America and Sweden. The objectives of the study were: to identify and describe both national and regional resources related to occupational safety and health; identify hazardous sectors of activity and areas for research, training and development within each country; identify potential collaboration partners. This report presents the results of a workshop held on 3-4 September 2001 in Lilongwe, Malawi aimed at defining the contents of the programme and setting the priorities for the first four-year phase. Contents: list of participants and programme; purposes; results; summary comments. (101940)
CIS 03-606 Occupational safety and health division annual report 2001. Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road #05-01, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 2001. 50p. Illus. + CD-ROM containing the documents in HTML format. (In English) Internet: Annual report of the Singapore Occupational Safety and Health Division of the Ministry of Manpower for the year 2001. Contents: organization; overview of the industrial safety and health situation; overview of work injury compensation; regulatory and enforcement activities; special monitoring programmes; occupational safety and health training and promotion; advisory committees and dialogue with industry groupings; international collaboration; studies, projects and committee work; visits by foreign delegations; staff training, awards and recreational activities. (101949)
CIS 03-607 International Day for Occupational Safety and Health - 28 Apr. 2003: Summary report. (French: Journée internationale pour la sécurité et la santé au travail à Madagascar - 28 avril 2003: Rapport de synthèse) Raharijaona V., ILO Publications, International Labour Organization, 4, rte. des Morillons, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. 118p. Bibl.ref. (In French) Internet: This seminar, held in Antananarivo, Madagascar, on 28 Apr. 2003 was organized with the help of the ILO and in conjunction with the World Day for Safety and Health at Work. The report provides a summary of the presentations made at the seminar concerning the safety and health situation in Madagascar, and the plans envisaged for better prevention in the future. In annexes: list of participants; text of main presentations; a reprint of the 2003 ILO publication Safety in numbers - Pointers for global safety culture at work (see CIS 03-597); reproduction of several ILO conventions regarding OSH matters. (101997)
CIS 03-608 Personal protective equipment - Face and eye protectors. (Polish: Środki ochrony indywidualnej - Środki ochrony oczu i twarzy) Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 34p. Illus. 19 ref., ISBN 83-88703-64-1 (In Polish) Internet: This guide provides information on the characteristics and scope of use of personal eye and face protective equipment, and proposes three-step approach to selecting the protective device: analysing the hazards and constraints; selecting the appropriate suppliers; acquiring the equipment and making it available to users. Appendices include European and Polish regulations and standards, an indicative list of suppliers, and the marking of protective devices according to the EN 166 standard. Polish translation of INRS publication ED 798. (101815)
CIS 03-609 Personal protective equipment - Head and respiratory system. (Polish: Środki ochrony indywidualnej - Głowa i układ oddechowy) Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 32p. Illus., ISBN 83-88703-59-5 (In Polish) Internet: This guide provides information on the characteristics and scope of use of personal protective equipment for the head and respiratory system protection, guidance concerning the proper selection of this equipment and information regarding the compliance of Polish standards with European Union directives. Translation of INRS publication ED 279. (101816)
CIS 03-610 Personal protective equipment - Equipment for leg protection. (Polish: Środki ochrony indywidualnej - Środki ochrony nóg) Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 25p. Illus., ISBN 83-88703-54-4 (In Polish) Internet: This guide provides information on the characteristics and scope of use of personal protective equipment for leg protection (against chemical hazards, thermal hazards and electrical hazards), guidance concerning the proper selection of this equipment and information regarding the compliance of Polish standards with European Union directives. Polish translation of INRS publication ED 529. (101817)
CIS 03-611 Personal protective equipment - Equipment for hand and arm protection. (Polish: Środki ochrony indywidualnej - Środki ochrony rąk) Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 26p. Illus., ISBN 83-88703-49-8 (In Polish) Internet: This guide provides information on the characteristics and scope of use of arm guards and protective gloves, guidance concerning the proper arm guard and protective glove selection and information regarding the compliance of Polish standards with European Union directives. Polish translation of INRS publication ED 275 (see CIS 99-110). (101818)
CIS 03-612 Personal protective equipment - Body protection. (Polish: Środki ochrony indywidualnej - Odzież ochronna) Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 29p. Illus. 39 ref., ISBN 83-88703-44-7 (In Polish) Internet: This guide lists the manufacturers of personal protective equipment for whole-body protection available in Poland. Contents: general regulations; regulations, standards and suppliers by type of product; fall arresters; heat and flame protective clothing; cold and weather protective clothing; protective clothing against mechanical hazards; miscellaneous protective clothing; distributors by region. For each type of equipment, this guide mentions the applicable Polish and European regulations. Polish translation of INRS publication ED 319 (see CIS 95-322). (101819)
CIS 03-613 Personal protective equipment - Safety shoes. (Polish: Środki ochrony indywidualnej - Obuwie ochronne) Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 29p. Illus., ISBN 83-88703-39-0 (In Polish) Internet: This guide is aimed at safety engineers, industrial physicians, enterprise managers, members of occupational safety and health committees and at all persons responsible for the selection of safety shoes and for making them available in industrial settings. It provides information on the characteristics and scope of use of protective shoes, and proposes an approach for their selection, purchase, use and maintenance. Appendices include a list of suppliers of work shoes and information on their marking. Polish translation of INRS publication ED 811 (see CIS 01-385). (101820)
CIS 03-614 New Zealand Injury Prevention Strategy. (Maori: Rautaki Ārai Whara o Aotearoa) Dyson R., Strategy & Research Division, Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), P.O. Box 1595, Wellington, New Zealand, June 2003. 31p. Illus., ISBN 0-478-27904-3 (In English, Maori) Internet: National strategy document developed by the New Zealand Government with the intention of reducing to a significant degree the impact of injuries in the country. The strategy is for all government and non-government organizations, businesses, families and whānau (traditional Māori extended families) involved in the field of injury prevention. The strategy includes ten key objectives and actions: 1 - Raise awareness and commitment to injury prevention; 2 - Strengthen injury prevention capacity and capability; 3 - Design and develop safe environments, systems and products; 4 - Maintain and enhance the legislative and policy framework supporting injury prevention; 5 - Integrate injury prevention activity through collaboration and co-ordination; 6 - Advance injury prevention knowledge and information; 7 - Develop and implement effective injury prevention interventions; 8 - Ensure appropriate resource levels for injury prevention; 9 - Develop, implement and monitor national injury prevention strategies for priority areas; 10 - Foster leadership in injury prevention. Six priority injury prevention areas were identified: motor vehicle accidents; suicide and other types of self-harm; falls; workplace injuries (including occupational diseases); assault; drowning and near-drowning incidents. In annex: basic statistics of injuries in New Zealand; a summary in Māori of the ten key objectives and actions. (101558)
CIS 03-615 Guide to the definition of risk-related safety measures in the enterprise. (German: Ratgeber zur Ermittlung gefährdungsbezogener Arbeitsschutzmassnahmen im Betrieb) Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2nd ed., 1998. 348p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 18.00., ISBN 3-89701-267-7 (In German) Internet: This guide is aimed at occupational safety and health professionals involved in assisting employers in the areas of hazard evaluation and the identification of preventive measures. It is subdivided into three parts. The first is devoted to preparation and the carrying out of a hazard evaluation based on the law on occupational safety and health. In the second part, information is provided on 14 risk factors (mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, biological hazards, dangerous substances, fire and explosions, hot or cold workplaces, climatic conditions, lighting, noise, vibration, radiation, cognitive factors, physical workload, mental workload), their effects, threshold limit values and preventive measures. The third part contains practical help (documentation forms, check lists, sample questionnaire for collecting data from workers). This document is a companion to the computerized tool analysed under CIS 01-773. (101870)
CIS 03-616 Work-related deaths - A protocol for liaison. (Welsh: Marwolaethau sy'n gysylltiedig â gwaith: Protocol ar gyfer cydgysylltu) British Transport Police, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, rev. ed., Feb. 2003. 16p. 5 ref. (In English, Welsh) Internet: Second version of the protocol for liaison between enforcing and prosecuting authorities in relation to work-related deaths (see CIS 98-1226 for previous version). It sets out the principles for effective liaison between the parties and deals in particular with incidents where, following a death, evidence indicates that a serous criminal offence may have been committed. Topics covered: statement of intent; initial action; management of the investigation; decision making; disclosure of material; special inquiries; advice prior to charge; decision to prosecute; prosecution; role of the coroner; national and local liaison. (101535)
CIS 03-617 Protection of workers' personal data. (French: Protection des données personnelles des travailleurs; Spanish: Protección de los datos personales de los trabajadores) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1997. ix, 47p. Price: CHF 15.00., ISBN 92-2-110329-3 (En), ISBN 92-2-210329-7 (fr), ISBN 92-2-310329-0 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: Employers collect personal data on job applicants and workers for a number of purposes. As new ways of collecting and processing data made possible by advances in technology entail risks for workers, there is a need to develop data protection provisions which specifically address the use of workers' personal data in order to safeguard the dignity of workers, to protect their privacy and guarantee their fundamental right to determine who may use which data for what purposes and under what conditions. The purpose of this code of practice is to provide guidance on the protection on workers' personal data. It covers general principles on the protection of personal data and specific provisions on the collection, security, storage, use and communication of personal data as well as on individual and collective rights of workers and on the role of employment agencies (101665)
CIS 03-618 Application of the law on the safety of equipment - Practical guide [Germany]. (German: Anwendung des Gerätesicherheitsgesetzes - Leitfaden) Höhn K., Lehder G., Barth C., Hamacher W., Wienhold L., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1999. 375p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 35.50., ISBN 3-89701-276-6 (In German) Internet: This practical guide is aimed at SMEs for helping them implement the requirements of the law on the safety of equipment in a focussed and efficient manner. It is built around procedures developed by users, based on real cases where their benefits were shown in practice. These typical procedures refer to support modules containing detailed instructions on various aspects (hazard evaluation, classification, safety requirements, advice, subcontracting of services, safety measures, compliance tests, GS or EC marking). When using this guide, users will be able to adapt the procedures to their specific situation and record the process in forms designed for the purpose. (101869)
CIS 03-619 Implementation of the occupational risk prevention system audits regulated in chapter V of the Regulation on Safety and Health Services. (Spanish: Realización de las auditorías del sistema de prevención de riesgos laborales reguladas en el capítulo V del Reglamento de les servicios de prevención) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 25p., ISBN 84-7425-651-8 (In Spanish) Internet: Following an introduction on the legal basis and the objectives of safety audits, this document goes on to list the various legal requirements referred to in chapter V of the Spanish Regulation on Safety and Health Services (see CIS 97-353), the purpose of the audit being to check that they are properly implemented. These requirements that total 45 in number are grouped under the following headings: hazard evaluation; preventive measures and activities; occupational safety and health planning and occupational safety and health organization. A third part of the document is devoted to the audit procedure itself (preparing and compiling the audit report). (101523)
CIS 03-620 Basic elements for evaluating the activities of external occupational safety and health services. (Spanish: Bases para el análisis de las actuaciones de los servicios de prevención ajenos) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 18p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-649-6 (In Spanish) Internet: Not all enterprises in Spain have their own occupational safety and health services. Those that do not are required to contract with external service providers in order to fulfill the legal requirements with respect to occupational safety and health. This document is aimed at the authorities responsible for the accreditation of external occupational safety and health services, so as to provide them with a common basis for the annual evaluation of the activities of these services. (101524)
CIS 03-621 Guidelines on occupational safety and health management systems - ILO-OSH 2001. (Bulgarian: Metodičeski ukazanija za sistemi za upravlenie na bezopasnotta i zgravemo pri rabota - ILO-OSH 2001) Nacionalen centăr po higiena, medicinska ekologija i hranene, Sofija 1431, bul. "Iv. Gešov" 15, Bulgaria, 2003. 62p. Illus. 37 ref., ISBN 954-90743-7-4 (In Bulgarian, English) Internet: Bulgarian-language version of the ILO guidelines abstracted under CIS 02-162. These ILO guidelines call for coherent policies to protect workers from occupational hazards. They present practical approaches and tools for assisting organizations, competent national institutions, employers, workers and other partners in establishing, implementing and improving occupational safety and health management systems, with the aim of reducing work-related injuries, ill health, diseases, incidents and deaths. At the national level, the guidelines provide for the establishment of a national framework for occupational safety and health (OSH) management systems, preferably supported by national laws and regulations. They also provide precise information on developing voluntary arrangements to strengthen compliance with regulations and standards, which, in turn, lead to continuing improvement of OSH performance. At the organizational level, the guidelines encourage the integration of OSH management system elements as an important component of overall policy and management arrangements. (101792)
CIS 03-622 Report V - ILO standards-related activities in the area of occupational safety and health. (Arabic: Taqrīr al-sādis - Anšata munadama al-(amal al- duwalīya al-muttasila bi-l-ma(āyyir fi majāl al-salāma wa al- sihha al-mihniyatīn; Chinese: Baogao 6 - Guoji Laogong zuzhi zaizhiye anquan yuwei shenglingyu de biaozhun xiangguan huodong; French: Rapport VI - Activités normatives de l'OIT dans le domaine de la sécurité et de la santé au travail; German: Bericht VI - Normenbezogene Tätigkeiten in der IAO im Bereich des Arbeitsschutzes; Russian: Doklad VI - Normotvorčeskaja dejatel'nost' MOT v oblasti bezopasnosti i gigieny truda; Spanish: Informe VI - Actividades normativas de la OIT en el ámbito de la seguridad y la salud en el trabajo) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. viii, 124p. Illus. Price: CHF 17.50. + CD-ROM., ISBN 92-2-112883-0 (En), ISBN 92-2-212883-4 (fr), ISBN 92-2-312883-8 (es), ISBN 92-2-412883-1 (ru), ISBN 92-2-512883-5 (zh), ISBN 92-2-612883-9 (ar), ISBN 92-2-712883-2 (de) (In Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Russian, Spanish) Internet: This report was prepared for discussion at the 91th session of the International Labour Conference in June 2003. It is aimed at examining the impact, coherence and relevance of ILO standards and related activities in the area of occupational safety and health and to develop a consensus on a plan of action to increase their impact. The report is divided into five chapters: occupational safety and health standards and other instruments; areas of action of the ILO; occupational safety and health at global, national and workplace levels; impact, coherence and relevance; transforming rules into reality. A CD-ROM including international labour standards, codes of practice, legislative texts, survey responses and documents is included. (101794)
CIS 03-623 Guidelines on occupational safety and health management systems - ILO-OSH 2001. (Polish: Wytyczne do systemów zarządzania bezpieczeństwem i higieną pracy - ILO-OSH 2001) Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 31p. 37 ref., ISBN 83-88703-24-2 (In Polish) Internet: Polish translation of the Guidelines on occupational safety and health management systems - ILO-OSH 2001 (see CIS 02-162). These ILO guidelines call for coherent policies to protect workers from occupational hazards. They present practical approaches and tools for assisting organizations, competent national institutions, employers, workers and other partners in establishing, implementing and improving occupational safety and health management systems, with the aim of reducing work-related injuries, ill health, diseases, incidents and deaths. At the national level, the guidelines provide for the establishment of a national framework for occupational safety and health (OSH) management systems, preferably supported by national laws and regulations. They also provide precise information on developing voluntary arrangements to strengthen compliance with regulations and standards, which, in turn, lead to continual improvement of OSH performance. At the organizational level, the guidelines encourage the integration of OSH management system elements as an important component of overall policy and management arrangements. (101813)
CIS 03-624 Guide to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 2002. vi, 83p. 14 ref. Price: GBP 7.95., ISBN 0-7176-2431-5 (In English) Internet: This guide provides the full text of the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 1995 and schedules (see CIS 95-1930) along with detailed guidance notes. It updates an earlier edition (see CIS 96-146) by taking into account recent regulations including the Police (Health and Safety) Regulations 1999. Contents: interpretation of the Regulations and notes on selected definitions; requirements for notification and reporting of injuries and dangerous occurrences; reporting the death of an employee, cases of disease and gas incidents; record keeping and availability; additional provisions relating to mines and quarries and offshore workplaces; restrictions on the application of the regulations; legal aspects of contravening these regulations; extension outside the United Kingdom. Notes on the schedules are provided and sample report forms are included. (101829)
CIS 03-625 Guide to the integration of occupational safety and health management systems within TQM systems. (Polish: Wytyczne integracji systemów zarządzania bezpieczeństwem i higieną pracy z systemami TQM) Podgórski D., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 86p. Illus. 50 ref., ISBN 83-88703-83-8 (In Polish) Internet: This booklet describes procedures for the integration of occupational safety and health management systems within the Total Quality Management (TQM) system. It includes instructions for the implementation and improvement of occupational safety and health management systems in enterprises which use TQM. (101907)
CIS 03-626 Whom to ask and whom to inform concerning the prevention of occupational hazards. (French: Qui interroger, qui avertir en prévention des risques professionnels) Brasseur G., Falcy M., Guillemy N., Warner L., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, June 2003. 4p. Illus. 7 ref. (In French) Internet: All persons within the enterprise can contribute towards the prevention of occupational hazards and the improvement in working conditions. This safety information sheet summarizes the roles and responsibilities of workers, workers' representatives, occupational physicians, occupational nurses and employers in France. It also describes the roles of regional and national organizations (medical insurance institutions, labour inspectorates, associations involving trade unions and employers' organizations, research centres). (101996)
CIS 03-627 Prevention of occupational hazards: Current assessment and future prospects. (Spanish: La prevención de riesgos laborales: Balance y perspectivas) Álvarez Montero A., ed., Consejo Andaluz de Relaciones Laborales, Spain, [2002]. CD-ROM, ISBN 84-606-3507-4 (In Spanish) Internet: This CD-ROM consists of a compilation of the papers presented during the fifth Andalusian conference on labour relations, held on 21-22 November 2002 in Jaén, Spain, on the topic of "Prevention of occupational hazards: Current assessment and future prospects". Panel discussions organized during this conference addressed the following issues: role of the government in the field of occupational safety and health; cost-benefit analysis of occupational safety and health; hazards resulting from new forms of work; organization and management of occupational safety and health within the enterprise; legislation applicable to the protection against occupational hazards and its practical implementation. (101522)
CIS 03-628 Occupational safety and health - A compendium of WHO documents. World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service,1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, June 2002. CD-ROM for Windows 9x, NT, 2000 containing a collection of documents in PDF format; Adobe Acrobat Reader needs (included) to be installed to view the documents., ISBN 92-4-159022-X (In English) Internet: This CD-ROM contains the texts of occupational health and safety (OSH) documents and articles developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). It provides an easily accessible compilation of WHO documents and recommendations to facilitate their dissemination to professionals and the interested public. Contents: Network meetings of the WHO collaborating centres in occupational health in 1994, 1995, 1996, 1999 and 2001 (declarations, strategies, reports); WHO headquarters activities for the Global Programme for Occupational Health (2002-2005; women and health; airborne particles; management of wastes; basic environmental health; human resources planning; classification of diseases; fact sheets; epidemiology training; protecting workers' health); regional activities (African region; American region; Eastern-Mediterranean region; European region; Western Pacific region); EPI Info (desktop application for managing epidemiology information: training tools; manuals). Certain documents are also available in French. (101957)
CIS 03-629 Review for workers: PPE - Protection against falls; Eye protection; Pesticides; Personal protective equipment; Head protection; Hand protection; Respiratory protection; PPE in the construction industry; Hearing protection. (Portuguese: Revista do trabalhador: EPI - Proteção contra quedas; Proteção ocular; Agrotóxicos; Equipamentos de proteção individual; Proteção para a cabeça; Proteção para as mãos; Proteção respiratória; EPI na indústria da construção; Proteção auricular) Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego, Fundacentro, Rua Capote Valente 710, São Paulo, SP 05409-002, Brazil, 2001/2002. 9 videotapes (length: 11.20 min; 15.30min; 12.55min; 11.05min; 10.19min; 9.31min; 11.40min; 9.34min; 14.50min). Price: BRL 20.00 (each). (In Portuguese) Internet: Set of nine videotapes presenting various types of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the conditions under which their use is recommended. Individual tapes address the following topics: protection against falls from heights; face and eye protection; PPEs for the spraying of pesticides; PPEs suited to the type of work that need to be supplied by employers; head protection; protection of the upper extremities; respirators for removing dust, smoke, aerosols, vapours and gases; PPEs in the construction sector; hearing protectors. (101521)
CIS 03-630 Excess of symptoms among radiographers. Dimich-Ward H., Wymer M., Kennedy S., Teschke K., Rousseau R., Chan-Yeung M., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2003, Vol.43, No.2, p.132-141. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: The prevalence and occupational determinants of miscellaneous symptoms referred to as "darkroom disease" was compared between all the radiographers and physiotherapists working in British Columbia, Canada. The participation rate for a mailed questionnaire survey was 66.1%. A small subset underwent spirometry and methacholine challenge testing. Radiographers had a higher prevalence of most symptoms, with an extreme odds ratio of 11.4 for chemical/metallic taste. The percentage of radiographers with non-specific bronchial hyperresponsiveness was three times higher than that of physiotherapists. Reporting inadequate ventilation, frequently detecting the odor of X-ray processing chemicals and cleaning up spills within the prior 12 months were highly associated with most of the symptoms. The results suggest that differences in the prevalence of symptoms represent a complex process, both in exposure and response to the many constituents found in radiographic processing chemicals. (101852)
CIS 03-631 Update of predictions of mortality from pleural mesothelioma in the Netherlands. Segura O., Burdorf A., Looman C., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.60, No.1, p.50-55. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to predict the number of pleural mesothelioma deaths in the Netherlands from 2000 to 2028 and to study the effect of main uncertainties in the modelling technique. Age-specific mortality rates and cohort relative risks by year of birth were calculated from the mortality from pleural mesothelioma in 1969-98. Numbers of death for both sexes were predicted for 2000 to 2028, taking into account the most likely demographic development. Applied to men, the model showed the highest age specific death rates in the oldest age group (79 per 100,000 person-years in the age group 80-84 years) and the highest relative risks for the birth cohorts of 1938-42 and 1943-47. The most plausible scenario predicts an increase in pleural mesothelioma mortality up to 490 cases per year in men, with a total death toll close to 12,400 cases during 2000-28. Mortality among women remains low, with a total death toll of about 800 cases. (101514)
CIS 03-632 Evaluation and prevention of risks to the lumbar column: Classification of methods. (French: Evaluation et prévention des risques lombaires: classification des méthodes) Malchaire J., Médecine du travail & Ergonomie / Arbeidsgezondheitszorg & Ergonomie, 2001, Vol.XXXVIII, No.1, p.53-66. Illus. 12 ref. (In French) Internet: This article reviews 19 methods used for evaluating the risk of low back problems in a given work situation. Each of these methods is reviewed briefly and evaluated regarding its orientation towards "risk quantification" as opposed to "search of solutions". From this review, a coherent set of methods is proposed corresponding to the four levels of the SOBANE strategy (screening, observation, analysis and expertise). (101605)
CIS 03-633 Socio-economic consequences of occupational asthma in Belgium. Vandenplas O., Larbanois A., Jamart J., Médecine du travail & Ergonomie / Arbeidsgezondheitszorg & Ergonomie, 2002, Vol.XXXIX, No.1, p.5-12. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, the socio-economic status of 86 subjects with a diagnosis of occupational asthma ascertained by specific inhalation challenges was examined. The follow-up assessment was performed a median of 43 months after the diagnostic evaluation. At that time, 33% of the subjects remained exposed to the causal agent, 38% suffered persistent work disruption and 64% reported a reduction in income. A reduction in income was more frequent among those who avoided exposure. The loss of earnings was offset by the disability indemnity in only 22% of those subjects who benefited from compensation by the Belgian Workers' Compensation Board. Logistic regression analysis showed that old age and low education level were the most significant predictors of unemployment, while asthma severity influenced employment status only minimally. These data indicate that the compensation system should be further directed at improving rehabilitation programs in order to reduce adverse economic and employment consequences of occupational asthma. (101607)
CIS 03-634 Carpal tunnel syndrome due to keyboarding and mouse tasks: A review. Fagarasanu M., Kumar S., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Feb. 2003, Vol.31, No.2, p.119-136. 85 ref. (In English) Internet: A literature review enabled the highlighting carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) risk factors in data-entry tasks. A comparison of several keyboards with respect to design of key depression forces and their effect on carpal tunnel pressure was provided. The factors implicated in the occurrence of CTS due to computer work were reviewed. Many so-called ergonomic keyboards change the musculoskeletal region exposed to risk, instead of eliminating hazardous postures. The ergonomic assessment of new devices should precede their introduction and not follow it. Future research should be directed to better understanding of factors to be eliminated or modified, to assess the impact of workstation redesign and to uncover the interrelationships between different factors that contribute to the development of CTS. (101633)
CIS 03-635 Epidemic decompression sickness: Case report, literature review, and clinical commentary. Butler W.P., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.73, No.8, p.798-804. 43 ref. (In English) Internet: This paper reports a collective case of epidemic decompression sickness (DCS) and reviews the literature. The case reported describes six aircrew men with DCS following an unpressurized flight. Factors contributing to this case are discussed in depth. The literature was also examined for similar cases of epidemic DCS, and four other instances were identified. Detailed qualitative analysis of these reports was performed. Based on these data, DCS is defined and classified. Adopting the proposed outline should produce an aetiology that can be used by flight medical physicians and against which control measures can be directed. (101635)
CIS 03-636 The relative risk of decompression sickness during and after air travel following diving. Freiberger J.J., Denoble P.J., Pieper C.F., Uguccioni D.M., Pollock N.W., Vann R.D., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2002, Vol.73, No.10, p.980-984. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: A retrospective review of three years of diving data was conducted to evaluate the relative risk of decompression sickness (DCS) from flying after diving. The intervals and the maximum depths in meters of seawater (msw) on the last day of diving were analysed from 627 recreational dive profiles. Injured divers (cases) and uninjured divers (controls) were compared using logistic regression to determine the association of DCS with time and depth while controlling for diver and dive profiles characteristics. The mean for cases and controls were 20.7h vs. 27.1h respectively for intervals and 22.5ms vs. 19msw respectively for maximum depth. Other factors considered included sex, weight, height, age and years of diving. Relative to flying over 28h after diving, the odds of DCS were 1.02 for 24-28h, 1.84 for 20-24h and 8.5 for less than 20h. Relative to a depth of less than 14.7msw, the odds of DCS were: 1.2 for 14.7-18.5 msw, 2.9 for 18.5-26 msw and 5.5 for more than 26 msw. (101638)
CIS 03-637 Pulmonary decompression sickness at altitude: Early symptoms and circulating gas emboli. Balldin U.I., Pilmanis A.A., Webb J.T., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2002, Vol.73, No.10, p.996-999. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: Pulmonary altitude decompression sickness (DCS) is characterized by substernal pain, cough and dyspnoea, probably associated with a severe accumulation of gas bubbles in the pulmonary capillaries. It may rapidly develop into a life-threatening medical emergency. This study was aimed at characterizing early DCS symptomatology and the appearance of gas emboli. Symptoms of simulated-altitude DCS and gas emboli (detected with ultrasound imaging) were analysed in 468 subjects who participated in hypobaric chamber tests between 1983 and 2001. Symptoms of DCS were found in 41% of exposures to simulated altitude. Only 29 of these exposures included DCS-related pulmonary symptoms, including 27 cases of gas emboli and 21 cases of severe gas emboli. The mean onset times of venous gas emboli and symptoms in the 29 exposures were 42min and 109min, respectively. In 15 subjects, the symptoms disappeared after recompression followed by two hours of oxygen breathing. In the remaining 14 cases, the symptoms disappeared with immediate hyperbaric oxygen treatment. (101639)
CIS 03-638 What is the value of self-diagnosis? Postvalidation of a screening form that allows the evaluation of occupational allergies in craft industries. (German: "Was ist Selbstdiagnose wert?" Postvalidierung eines Screeningbogens zur Erfassung berufsbedingter Allergien im Handwerk) Morfeld M., Schnabel P.E., Ergo-Med, Sep.-Oct. 2002, Vol.26, No.5, p.142-150. Illus. 27 ref. (In German) Internet: In the context of a multicentric study aimed at preventing occupational allergies among craftsmen, 1000 workers in the wood and plastic converting industries were asked to evaluate the possible allergies from which they suffered, their safety at work and their job satisfaction by means of a questionnaire. A total of 278 responses was collected. For validating the self-diagnosis responses and evaluating the effective prevalence of allergies, 100 workers were subjected to further allergy and lung function tests and had to respond to the questionnaire a second time. Examinations enabled to identify 96 cases of allergy. 32 subjects showed a significant allergy from the clinical point of view, among whom 72% had diagnosed it in the questionnaire. 22 subjects exhibited non-specific toxic symptoms and eight had noticeable lung-function problems. The comparison of questionnaire data and medical diagnoses showed a relationship between safety shortcomings within the enterprise and allergies. (101677)
CIS 03-639 Use of a prevention index to identify industries at high risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders of the neck, back, and upper extremity in Washington State, 1990-1998. Silverstein B., Viikari-Juntura E., Kalat J., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2002, Vol.41, No.3, p.149-169. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: Washington State Fund workers' compensation claims for hand/wrist, elbow, shoulder and back disorders during the period 1990-1998 were examined, and incidence rates per 10,000 full-time employees were calculated. A prevention index (PI) was created in order to rank sectors of activity. The focus was on non-traumatic soft-tissue musculoskeletal disorders (NTST-MSDs). It was found that NTST-MSDs continue to be a large and costly problem in Washington State. While the incidence rates for some NTST-MSDs are decreasing, the overall rate is not decreasing as fast as the rate for all other claims. In some cases, the rate is stable (sciatica, rotator cuff syndrome) or increasing (epicondylitis). Heavy manual handling and repetitive work characterize the industries with the highest risk. (101713)
CIS 03-640 Malignant mesothelioma in Australia, 1945-2000. Leigh J., Davidson P., Hendrie L., Berry D., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2002, Vol.41, No.3, p.188-201. Illus. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: Australia had 6,329 cases of mesothelioma from 1 January 1945 to 31 December 2000. Annual incidence rates per million population ≥20 years in 1997 were 59.8 and 10.9 for men and women, respectively. Incidence rates have been continually increasing and are the highest reported national rates in the world. While Western Australia has the highest rate (1997 rate = 52.8), most cases occur in the two most populous eastern states, New South Wales and Victoria. In 88% of cases, a history of asbestos exposure was obtained. Exposures occurred in a wide variety of occupational and environmental circumstances. Australia's high incidence of mesothelioma is related to the high use of all types of asbestos in the past. The number of cases in total is expected to be about 18,000 by 2020, with about 11,000 yet to appear. (101715)
CIS 03-641 Gender not a factor for altitude decompression sickness risk. Webb J.T., Kannan N., Pilmanis A.A., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.74, No.1, p.2-10. Illus. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: Some earlier studies suggest that women may be more susceptible to altitude decompression sickness (DCS) than men. In this study, 197 men and 94 women underwent 961 exposures to simulated altitude for up to 8h, using zero to 4h of preoxygenation. Throughout the exposures, subjects breathed 100% oxygen, rested or performed mild or strenuous exercise, and were monitored for precordial venous gas emboli (VGE) and DCS symptoms. No significant differences in DCS incidence were observed between men (49.5%) and women (43.3%). However, VGE occurred at significantly higher rates among men than women, 69.3% and 55.0% respectively. Women using hormonal contraception showed significantly greater susceptibility to DCS than other women during the latter two weeks of the menstrual cycle. Significantly higher DCS incidence was observed in the heaviest men, in women with the highest body fat, and in subjects with the highest body mass indices and lowest levels of fitness. (101775)
CIS 03-642 Self-reported headache during saturation diving. Eglund M., Risberg J., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.74, No.3, p.236-241. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: Headache is a frequent symptom among divers, but there is limited knowledge of the incidence and clinical characteristics of such headaches. During 2001, a questionnaire was distributed to divers working in offshore diving operations on the Norwegian continental shelf. Questions included past and present headache symptoms, with pain intensity indicated visual analog scale (VAS) from zero to ten. A total of 56 divers from two diving contractors participated in the study, during which 67 saturation dives were registered. The divers estimated a higher frequency of headaches in connection to saturation diving than to other activities of everyday life. One third of the divers reported experiencing headache after they finished decompression. There was a significant increase in reports of headache on the last day of decompression and on the first day post-saturation compared with the start of decompression. Median headache duration was 6h and median pain score estimated on a VAS was 2.5, equivalent to moderate intensity. (101778)
CIS 03-643 Diagnosis of occupational asthma. (French: Diagnostic de l'asthme professionnel) SST - Santé et Sécurité au Travail, Jan. 2003, No.24, p.3-8. Illus. (In French) Internet: Prepared on the basis of discussions during a consensus conference, this guide enables physicians to recognize, diagnose and treat patients suffering from occupational asthma (OA). Contents: definitions of OA; identification and diagnosis of OA; establishing the occupational nature (identification of the causal agent, spirometric testing, immunological investigations, measuring of non-specific bronchial hyperreactivity, specific bronchial provocation testing); evolution and prognosis; compensation. A table summarizes the approach for the diagnosis of OA. See also CIS 03-644. (101781)
CIS 03-644 Criteria for the compensation of occupational asthma and proposal for a scale. (French: Critères de réparation de l'asthme professionnel et proposition d'un barème) SST - Santé et Sécurité au Travail, Jan. 2003, No.24, p.9-18. Illus. 13 ref. (In French) Internet: This article discusses reliable criteria for evaluating the degree of functional disabilty due to occupational asthma (FEV1, bronchial hyperreactivity, need for antagonistic β2- and corticoid-based medication). It also proposes a scale of permanent disability as a function of the degree of asthma. Appendices include: protocol for carrying out staged spirometry; protocol for carrying out longitudinal flow-rate measurements; international classification of asthma severity; list of main substances causing occupational asthma and their mode of action; tables for the compensation of occupational asthma in Tunisia; list of Tunisian laboratories capable of carrying out specific tests for the diagnosis of occupational asthma. See also CIS 03-643. (101782)
CIS 03-645 Influence of participation in a worksite health-promotion program on disability days. Schultz A.B., Lu C., Barnett T.E., Yen L.T., McDonald T., Hirschland D., Edington D.W., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.44, No.8, p.776-780. Illus. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: This study assessed the impact of participation in a health promotion programme on short-term and long-term sickness absenteeism during a six-year period in an industrial enterprise. 4189 male employees were followed from 1995 to 2000. Sickness absenteeism was compared for programme participants and non-participants from baseline (1995) through the 5 years of the programme. The percentage of non-participants absent on any given day was greater than that of participants. Moreover, the average number of days of absence incurred by non-participants significantly increased from baseline to programme year 5 compared with participants. The total amount saved each year in days of absence for the 2596 program participants was USD 623,040, which resulted in a savings-to-cost ratio of 2.3. (101840)
CIS 03-646 Lifetime principal occupation and risk of Alzheimer's disease in the Kungsholmen project. Qiu C., Karp A., von Strauss E., Winblad B., Fratiglioni L., Bellander T., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2003, Vol.43, No.2, p.204-211. 43 ref. (In English) Internet: This study is aimed at identifying the specific occupational categories that may be related to dementia. A cohort of 913 non-demented subjects aged 75 years or more was examined twice over six years to detect incident dementia. The lifetime longest occupations of all subjects were divided into different categories according to the occupation-based classification system. Data were analysed with Cox models. During the follow-up period, 260 subjects were diagnosed with dementia (197 with Alzheimer's disease). It was found that manual work was associated with an increased risk of dementia, and the association was dependent on educational level. Compared with non-manual work, manual work involving goods production had an adjusted relative risk of 1.6 for Alzheimer's disease and 1.4 for dementia. An association between goods production, manual work and Alzheimer's disease found in this study suggests that factors in the mid-twentieth century goods production environment may be involved in the development of Alzheimer's disease. (101854)
CIS 03-647 Radiographic (ILO) readings predict arterial oxygen desaturation during exercise in subjects with asbestosis. Lee Y.C.G., Singh B., Pang S.C., de Klerk N.H., Hillman D.R., Musk A.W., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.60, No.3, p.201-206. 36 ref. (In English) Internet: The purpose of this study of subjects with asbestosis was to determine whether radiographic scores correlated with resting lung function and abnormal ventilatory responses to exercise. It also attempted to determine whether radiographic scores added value to resting lung function tests in predicting abnormal ventilatory responses to exercise. 38 male subjects with asbestosis were included. Chest radiographs were read according to the ILO classification independently by three observers. All subjects underwent assessment of lung functions at rest and an incremental exercise test. It was found that arterial oxygen desaturation correlated with the profusion and extent of parenchymal abnormality observed on the radiographs. The addition of morphological indices to physiological measurements is valuable for predicting oxygen desaturation during exercise but not for VO2max. Refinement of the radiographic scoring system and the addition of more sophisticated imaging techniques may further improve the predictive power. (101860)
CIS 03-648 Occupation and the risk of laryngeal cancer in Turkey. Elci O.C., Dosemeci M., Blair A., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2001, Vol.27, No.4, p.233-239. Illus. 43 ref. (In English) Internet: Among 7631 cancer cases seen at an oncology treatment centre between 1979 and 1984, 958 laryngeal cancer cases were identified among men. Occupational history, tobacco and alcohol use, as well as demographic data were obtained from patients with a standardized questionnaire. Excess odds ratios (ORs) of laryngeal cancer occurred among guards (OR 1.5), production supervisors (OR 1.8), textile workers (OR 1.9), drivers (OR 1.7), construction workers (OR 1.7), workers in grain mills (OR 3.1), trade unions (OR 3.6) and local government services (OR 4.7). Supraglottic laryngeal cancer was excessive among the textile workers, construction workers, and local government labourers, all with potential dust exposure. (101952)
CIS 03-649 Hemochromatosis detection in a health screening program at an Alabama forest products mill. Barton J.C., Cheatwood S.M., Key T.J., Acton R.T., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.44, No.8, p.745-751. 56 ref. (In English) Internet: This article analyses the haemochromatosis detection data from a long-term health screening program at a forest products mill. There were 2199 participants: 2032 whites (1506 men, 526 women) and 167 African Americans (124 men, 43 women). Iron and transferrin saturation were measured serum after overnight fasting; ferritin was measured in participants with elevated iron concentrations or transferrin saturation >48%. Participants with elevated ferritin levels underwent further evaluation. Eight white men were diagnosed to have haemochromatosis (frequency 0.0039 in whites, 0.0053 in white men). The estimated cost per case detected was USD 8826. It is concluded that detecting haemochromatosis in a workplace health screening program is efficacious and economical. (101838)
CIS 03-650 Combined effect of smoking and occupational exposure to noise on hearing loss in steel factory workers. Mizoue T., Miyamoto T., Shimizu T., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.60, No.1, p.56-59. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was carried out to examine the possible synergy of smoking and exposure to noise on hearing loss. Data from periodic health examinations for 4624 steel company workers and they included audiometry testing and information on smoking habits. Occupational exposure to noise was estimated from company records. Logistic regression was used to examine the dose-response association between smoking and hearing loss. The prevalence rate ratio (PRR) of hearing loss was calculated for each combination of smoking level and noise exposure factor, taking non-smokers not exposed to occupational noise as a reference population. It was found that smoking was associated with increased odds of high-frequency hearing loss. The PRR for high-frequency hearing loss among smokers exposed to occupational noise was 2.56, while the PRR for smokers not exposed to noise was 1.57 and the PRR for non-smokers exposed to noise was 1.77. The synergistic index was 1.16. Smoking was not associated with low-frequency hearing loss. (101515)
CIS 03-651 Investigation of work-related disorders in truck drivers using RULA method. Massaccesi M., Pagnotta A., Soccetti A., Masali M., Masiero C., Greco F., Applied Ergonomics, July 2003, Vol.34, No.4, p.303-307. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: A high incidence of spinal disorders is observed in professional drivers. A group of 77 drivers of garbage-collection vehicles who sit in a standard posture and of road cleaning vehicles, who drive with the neck and trunk flexed and twisted, was studied using RULA, a method for the evaluation of the exposure to risk factors associated with work-related upper-limb disorders. A significant association was found between trunk and neck scores and all self-reported pains, aches or discomforts in the trunk or neck regions in all subjects. In particular, the neck score was significant in both postures, reflecting high loading of the neck. Significantly different posture scores were also recorded for drivers using adjustable and non-adjustable seats. (101584)
CIS 03-652 Productivity losses related to the common cold. Bramley T.J., Lerner D., Sarnes M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.44, No.9, p.822-829. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: The common cold has the potential to cause substantial productivity losses because of its high prevalence in working-age groups. This article presents the findings of a survey conducted to estimate productivity loss by measuring three sources of loss: direct absenteeism due to the cold, on-the-job productivity losses, and caregiver absenteeism, which in turn gives rise to the absenteeism of working women with young children. Each cold experienced by a working adult caused an average of 8.7 lost work hours (2.8 absenteeism hours; 5.9 hours of on-the-job loss), and 1.2 work hours were lost because of attending to children who were suffering from colds. It is concluded that the economic cost of lost productivity due to the common cold approaches USD 25 billion, of which USD 16.6 billion is attributed to on-the-job productivity loss, USD 8 billion is attributed to direct absenteeism, and USD 230 million is attributed to caregiver absenteeism. (101926)
CIS 03-653 Associations between white blood cell count and features of the metabolic syndrome in Japanese male office workers. Nakanishi N., Sato M., Shirai K., Nakajima K., Murakami S., Takatorige T., Suzuki K., Tatara K., Industrial Health, July 2002, Vol.40, No.3, p.273-277. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, the association of white blood cell (WBC) count with different components of metabolic syndrome (MS) was assessed in 5275 male Japanese office workers aged between 23 and 59. There was a significant correlation between WBC count and body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, triglycerides, fasting plasma glucose and uric acid. After controlling for potential confounding factors, the adjusted means of WBC count were significantly higher in subjects with each feature of the MS (obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, low high-density lipoprotein levels, hypertriglyceridaemia, high fasting plasma glucose levels and hyperuricaemia). The adjusted WBC count increments in subjects with 1, 2, 3, 4, and ≥5 features of the MS were 0.28, 0.45, 0.68, 0.76, and 1.40x109 cells/L, respectively, compared with the subjects without features of the MS. These data indicate a strong association between WBC count and a number of disorders characterizing the MS among Japanese men. (101845)
CIS 03-654 Medical care system for NASA-Mir spaceflights. Gontcharov I.B., Kovachevich I.V., Pool S.L., Navinkov A.L., Barratt M.R., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2002, Vol.73, No.12, p.1219-1223. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: A fundamental goal of space medicine is to maintain the health and fitness of space crews. Meeting this goal requires reliable, effective, up-to-date medical support systems for use in microgravity. This article describes some of the factors considered in the design and assembly of Russian and U.S. in-flight medical care systems. The successful mutual use of U.S. and Russian medications and medical equipment under the NASA-Mir program conclusively demonstrated the importance and advantages of cooperation among participating space agencies. Continued progress toward the integration of U.S. and Russian flight medical systems will further increase the effectiveness of the medical support of joint missions aboard the International Space Station. (101774)
CIS 03-655 Does standing at work during pregnancy result in reduced infant birth weight?. Ha E., Cho S.I., Park H., Chen D., Chen C., Wang L., Xu X., Christiani D.C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.44, No.9, p.815-821. Illus. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between infant birth weight and standing at work during pregnancy. 1,222 pregnant women employed at a large petrochemical site in Beijng, China, were enrolled in the study. The subjects were followed up through their entire pregnancy. All subjects delivered at the company staff hospital between 1996 and 1998. Various work-related physical activities during pregnancy were assessed using a structured questionnaire, and generalized additive models were performed to examine their association with birth weight. Of the assessed activities, only standing was significantly associated with birth weight. After adjusting for potential confounders, maternal standing hours per day at work was found to be significantly associated with reduced birth weight (-17.7g, P=0.03). (101925)
CIS 03-656 Hearing perception during proper and defective internal ear function. (Polish: Percepcja dźwięku przy prawidłowym i uszkodzonym funkcjonowaniu ucha wewnętrznego) Żera J., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 47p. Illus. 4 ref., ISBN 83-88703-97-8 (In Polish) Internet: Hearing loss is one of the most widespread occupational diseases. This booklet describes the principles of hearing perception of healthy persons and persons with internal ear damage. (101802)
CIS 03-657 Diseases of workers. (Spanish: Tratado de las enfermedades de los artisanos) Ramazzini B., Instituto Nacional de Medicina y Seguridad del Trabajo, Madrid, Spain, 1999. iii, 391p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index., ISBN 84-351-0317-X (In Spanish) Internet: Full Spanish translation of the first manual of occupational medicine entitled "De morbis artificum diatriba", published in Italy in 1714, as well as its supplement describing pathologies related to 53 occupations or categories of workers. It also contains the text of a conference on the health care of consecrated virgins, the dedicatory epistle of the first edition, a series of notes by the translators and an index of occupations. Re-edition of the translation published in 1983 (see CIS 84-1975). (101611)
CIS 03-658 Exploratory study of the preventive occupational health dynamics in small enterprises. (French: Etude exploratoire des dynamiques préventives en santé au travail dans les petits établissements) Simard M., Carpentier-Roy M.C., Marchand A., Ouellet F., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 3C2, Canada, Dec. 2002. iii, 36p. Illus. 50 ref., ISBN 2-551-21684-2 (In French) Internet: This study concerns the implementation of occupational health services in small enterprises in Quebec. Its objective is to provide occupational health practitioners with a set of criteria enabling them to better adapt their interventions to the specific conditions of these occupational settings. The study was conducted in the form of a survey of eight small Quebec enterprises. Data was collected through field observations, by questionnaire and during interviews with business owners, managers, workers and occupational health professionals. The study enables the highlighting of the various forms of preventive dynamics in small enterprises. (101721)
CIS 03-659 Diseases of workers (De morbis artificum diatriba - 1700). (French: Des maladies du travail (De morbis artificum diatriba - 1700)) Editions AleXitère, 12430 Ayssiènes, France, 1990. 340p. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 22.11. (In French) Internet: Full French translation of the first manual of occupational medicine entitled "De morbis artificum diatriba", published in Italy in 1714, as well as its supplement describing pathologies related to 53 occupations or categories of workers. (101744)
CIS 03-660 First aid compendium. (Polish: Kompendium pierwszej pomocy) Gacek W., ed., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy - Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 288p. Illus., ISBN 83-7373-085-0 (In Polish) Internet: This compendium on first aid describes typical symptoms and procedures applicable to the following emergency situations: body injuries; breathing disorders; loss of consciousness; poisoning. It also contains basic guidance on first-aid organization within enterprises. (101805)
CIS 03-661 Evaluation of the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 and the approved code of practice and guidance. Winton C., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. ix, 85p. Illus. Price: GBP 25.00., ISBN 0-7176-2608-3 (In English) Internet: This report presents the findings of an evaluation into the current first aid regulations and associated guidance, commissioned by the Health and Safety Executive in order to establish the relevance of first aid in industry today and to recommend the scope of future regulations. A questionnaire survey was addressed to representative employers on the awareness and level of application of first aid regulations. Interviews were subsequently conducted with selected employers in order to obtain further details. It was found that first aid awareness and penetration in workplaces was good, with the principal objectives of the regulations having very wide appeal. Compliance, however, was found to be more in the spirit rather than to the letter of the regulations and this exposed some important deficiencies in the format and content of guidance. Recommendations are made regarding the development of future regulations and associated guidance and on the frequency and duration of first aid training. (101964)
CIS 03-662 Cross-sectional epidemiological studies. (French: Etudes épidémiologiques transversales) Massin N., Choudat D., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2003, No.138, 6p. Illus. 22 ref. (In French) Internet: In cross-sectional epidemiological surveys, subjects that are included in the sample are subjected to investigations that are limited in time, allowing research to focus on issues that are present at the time of the study. These cross-sectional studies can be either descriptive or analytical. Descriptive cross-sectional studies focus on the frequency and distribution of diseases and health indicators. They enable the creation, the description and in some cases the comparison of data on the state of health of populations. The objective of analytical cross-sectional surveys is to highlight the relationship between health effects and exposures. Cross-sectional studies may be carried out at repeated intervals, thereby giving a longitudinal view of the data. In these cases also, the approach can be either descriptive, for example in epidemiological surveillance studies, or less frequently, analytical. (101598)
CIS 03-663 Explanatory notes aimed at helping in the diagnosis of occupational diseases. (Spanish: Notas explicativas de ayuda al diagnóstico de las enfermedades profesionales) Instituto Nacional de Medicina y Seguridad del Trabajo, Madrid, Spain, 1999. xii, 212p. Index., ISBN 84-351-0314-5 (In Spanish) Internet: This document was prepared by an expert group nominated by the European Commission. It provides information on the causal relationships between diseases and occupational exposures. Besides explanatory notes aimed at helping in the diagnosis of 96 diseases caused by chemical or physical agents, this document contains two indices (an alphabetical index and a keyword index). The appendix consists of the full text of Commission Recommendation 90/326/EEC of 22 May 1990 concerning the adoption of a European schedule of occupational diseases (see CIS 90-1061) together with an index linking the list of Annex I of the Recommendation with the explanatory notes. (101613)
CIS 03-664 Musculoskeletal disorders among floor layers: Is prevention possible?. Jensen L.K., Kofoed L.B., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Nov. 2002, Vol.17, No.11, p.797-806. Illus. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: This study on musculoskeletal disorders involved 102 floor layers and 180 apprentice floor layers. Questionnaires were used to register musculoskeletal complaints, psychosocial factors and proposals for prevention. Selected interviews were carried among floor layers, their employers and representatives of the employers' trade association. Results indicate that musculoskeletal disorders remain a widespread among skilled floor layers and apprentices. Primary prevention of work-related knee disorders requires a reduction in work tasks performed in kneeling positions. Certain tools exist that can be used in standing positions for floor laying work tasks. The article goes on to discuss some of the psychosocial factors considered to be responsible for reluctance to adopt improved work practices. (101689)
CIS 03-665 Work injuries among Finnish farmers: A national register linkage study 1996- 1997. Virtanen S.V., Notkola V., Luukkonen R., Eskola E., Kurppa K., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.43, No.3, p.314-325. Illus. 28 ref. (In English) Internet: Farming is one of the most injury-prone occupations in Finland as it is in other countries. The objectives of this study were to describe work injuries of Finnish farmers and to compare occupational injury rates between various subgroups. A cohort of 69,629 full-time farmers and their 11,657 compensated injuries were identified from an insurance company database. Using cohort, population census and farm register data, relative incidence rates were calculated using Poisson regression. Men had higher injury rates than women, except with regard to injuries caused by animals. Dairy and hog farming were the riskiest activities. In dairy farms, injury rates increased with the number of cows. Only half of insured farmers in Finland are full-time farmers, which may have led to an underestimation of risk in Finnish injury statistics. (101708)
CIS 03-666 Prevention of occupational hazards in the livestock rearing sub-sector. (Spanish: Prevención de riesgos laborales en el subsector de ganadería) Blasco Mayor A., Prevención, Jan.-Mar. 2003, No.163, p.18-34. Illus. 14 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Following an outline of working conditions in the livestock rearing sector in Spain, this article specifies the main risk factors, which include: risk of traumatic accidents; posture and physical workload; biological agents; chemicals and other substances (dusts, aerosols); exposure to natural phenomena (solar radiation); excrement (manure pits); risks due to the growing, processing and storage of fodder (mechanical and fire hazards, toxic gases, physical workload and posture). Finally, it proposes solutions for improving safety and health in this sector. The variety of animal species and modes of farming would require a plethora of preventive measures. Recommendations are therefore limited to several general approaches aimed at improving prevention, including: epidemiological studies; creating databases of good work practices; promoting prevention measures in the form of guides and other documents; research activities; inspection programmes for ensuring the safety of products and machinery; prevention programmes and systems for ensuring the compliance with occupational safety and health legislation. (101787)
CIS 03-667 Occupational environment of stone crusher workers in India. Rajput M.R., INDOSHNEWS, Oct.-Dec. 2002, Vol.7, No.4, p.1-8. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: This article consists of a general overview of the working environment in the stone crushing industry in India. A large part of the industry operates in the informal sector, with little or no protection of the workers against the main health hazards, airborne silica dust and noise. Tables present data on airborne dust, free silica dust and noise determined in stone crushing units in various locations across the country. All were in considerable excess of permissible levels of exposure. (101519)
CIS 03-668 Cancer mortality in a cohort of male German iron foundry workers. Adzersen K.H., Becker N., Steindorf K., Frenzel-Beyme R., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.43, No.3, p.295-305. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: The purpose of the study was to examine whether work in iron foundries increases the risk of cancer. Occupational histories were collected among members of a cohort of 17,708 male German production workers in 37 iron foundries who were first employed in 1950-1985 with a minimum employment period of one year. Mortality was compared with that of the German general population during 1950-1993. Mortality from all causes was elevated (standard mortality ratio (SMR)=115.4), as was for total cancer (SMR=123.8), especially cancers of the lung (SMR=163.9) and liver (SMR=322.5) and diseases of the respiratory system (SMR=147.6). Non- significant elevations of mortality were also found for cancers of the mouth, pharynx and larynx. The elevated mortality persisted for decades after termination of employment. The results provide further evidence for an increased risk of cancer among foundry workers. (101706)
CIS 03-669 A mortality study among workers in a French aluminium production plant. (French: Etude de mortalité parmi les salariés d'une usine de production d'aluminium en France) Moulin J.J., Clavel T., Buclez B., Laffite-Rigaud G., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2000, No.181, p.5-13. 42 ref. (In French) Internet: The aim of this study was to establish the possible existence of a relationship between bronchopulmonary cancer and exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the aluminium industry. The historical cohort consisted of all 2133 male workers who had been employed for at least a year between 1950 and 1994 in the same plant of a French aluminium producer. Mortality was followed for the period between 1968 and 1994, during which 335 deaths were registered. Causes of death were obtained from death certificates. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were computed using regional mortality rates as external reference. The observed mortality was lower than expected for all causes of death (SMR=0.81) and for lung cancer (SMR=0.63). No lung cancer excess was observed in workshops where PAH exposure was likely to have occurred, and no trend was observed according to duration of exposure and time since first exposure. This low lung cancer mortality may be partly explained by a pronounced healthy worker effect. Translation into French of an article that appeared originally in International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health. (101756)
CIS 03-670 Exposure-response models based on extended follow-up of a cohort mortality study in the automobile industry. Eisen E.A., Bardin J., Gore R., Woskie S.R., Hallock M.F., Monson R.R., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2001, Vol.27, No.4, p.240-249. Illus. 29 ref. (In English) Internet: This report describes the extended follow-up of a cohort of 46,399 automobile manufacturing workers with potential exposure to metalworking fluids (MWF). The outcomes of cancers of the oesophagus, stomach, colon, rectum, liver, pancreas, larynx, skin, prostate and brain, as well as leukaemia, were recorded. Standardized mortality ratios were computed for the most recent ten years of follow-up, as well as for the entire study period. Adjusted relative risks were estimated in Poisson regression models. Associations were found between: straight MWF exposure and oesophageal, laryngeal and rectal cancer; soluble MWF exposure and cancer of the oesophagus, larynx, skin and brain; synthetic MWF exposure and cancer of the oesophagus, liver and prostate. These results provide further evidence that exposure to metalworking fluids causes cancer among workers in automobile manufacturing, and that risks of several digestive cancers, prostate cancer and leukaemia, may persist at current levels of exposure to water-based metalworking fluids. (101953)
CIS 03-671 Facing the challenge. (Portuguese: Enfrentando o desafio) López Valcárcel A., Proteção, Sep. 2003, Vol.XVI, No.141, p.77-80. Illus. (In Portuguese) Internet: The construction industry remains a dangerous sector of activity, with very high rates of occupational injuries and fatal accidents. A reduction in occupational accidents can only be achieved through the strict implementation of long-term occupational safety programmes. This article presents the ILO guidelines for occupational safety and health management systems (ILO-OSH 2001, see CIS 02-162) together with the conditions necessary for their application to occupational safety and health management in the building and construction industry. (101530)
CIS 03-672 A job safety program for construction workers designed to reduce the potential for occupational injury using tool box training sessions and computer-assisted biofeedback stress management techniques. Johnson K.A., Ruppe J., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2002, Vol.8, No.3, p.321-329. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: This programme was conducted at a building company in Hawaii employing a multi-cultural workforce performing included drywall and carpentry work. The following topics were selected for this project: fire prevention training; blood-borne pathogen training; ergonomic risk evaluation and ergonomic interventions; stress evaluation; training on avoiding slips, trips, and falls; electrical safety training; computer-assisted methods of stress evaluation (based on electromyography, electrocardiography, electroencephalography and recordings of galvanic skin response, heart rate, blood volume and breathing). Workshops and training sessions were held for each topic. As a result of the programme, subsequent observed safety hazards, reported injuries, and levels of perceived stress were reduced for the majority of the study population. (101834)
CIS 03-673 Incidence of asthma among Finnish construction workers. Karjalainen A., Martikainen R., Oksa P., Saarinen K., Uitti J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.44, No.8, p.752-757. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: This article explores the risk of asthma among male workers in the construction industry in Finland. Cohorts of all male construction industry workers and all persons employed in administrative work were followed for asthma incidence through a occupational disease registry data between 1986 and 1998. Relative risks (RR) were estimated for 24 construction occupations. The risk was increased in nearly all construction occupations studied, but it was highest among welders and flame cutters (RR 2.34), asphalt roofing workers (RR 2.04), plumbers (RR 1.90), and bricklayers and tile setters (RR 1.83). Only 2% of the cases of asthma among construction workers had been recognized as occupational asthma. Construction industry workers have an increased risk of adult-onset persistent asthma and cases of occupational asthma caused by well-established causative agents have only a minor contribution to this overall asthma excess. (101839)
CIS 03-674 Hand eczema in 45 bakers - A clinical study. Meding B., Wrangsjö K., Brisman J., Järvholm B., Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 2003, Vol.48, No.1, p.7-11. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: The skin of bakers is heavily exposed to dough, spices, water and detergents. Previous studies showed bakers to have a high risk of hand eczema. Among the approximately 21% of bakers reporting hand eczema in a questionnaire survey, a random sample of 60 was selected, of whom 52 attended an examination comprising a standardized interview, documentation of clinical skin signs, patch and prick testing with standard and bakery series, and serum analyses. 45 participants confirmed a history of hand eczema, for which 11 had been on sick leave, with a median duration of 14 weeks. 13 subjects had changed their occupation due to skin disease, 19 had positive patch test reactions to standard contact allergens and five to bakery contact allergens. 16 bakers had positive prick tests to standard allergens, 10 to bakery allergens, of whom nine reacted to flours. (101831)
CIS 03-675 Evaluation and prevention of hazards in small offset printing shops. (French: Evaluation et prévention des risques dans les petites imprimeries offset) Abecassis P., Andéol B., Auburtin G., Beaumont N., Bediot G., Brault A., Carlier H, Daubigney L., Ducrot-Henry L., Fernandez N., Ferry P., Gendre J.C., Incorvaïa A.M., Jacquet F., Juhel A., Lafon D., Lecinq C., Lecompte D., Le Trionnaire C., Malonga E.A., Metin P., Nicolas A., Raymond F., Renin O., Saulnier M., Smolik H.J., Tortellier L., Verger C., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2003, No.94, p.109-150. Illus. 48 ref. (In French) Internet: Contents of this feature article on the evaluation and prevention of occupational hazards in small offset printing shops: description of the activity in terms of premises, persons employed and production processes; hazards, modes of exposure and risks (mechanical hazards, hazards from inks, additives, cleaning agents and solvents); tests of exposures to solvents, ozone and noise; guidance on the prevention of hazards due to chemicals, mechanical equipment, work postures and noise; guidance on various topics (lighting, electrical equipment, work organization). Appendices include a check list for hazards encountered during the various production steps, as well as an evaluation questionnaire on the guidance presented in this article aimed at occupational safety and health professionals. (101561)
CIS 03-676 Multiple sclerosis in nurse anaesthetists. Flodin U., Landtblom A.M., Axelson O., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.60, No.1, p.66-68. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Volatile anaesthetics are chemically related to organic solvents used in industry. Earlier studies have shown that exposure to industrial solvents may increase the incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS). This study was conducted for the purpose of establishing whether exposure to anaesthetics poses a similar risk. 90 nurses with MS were identified. They were given a questionnaire, which was filled in by 85 subjects; 13 of these were nurse anaesthetists. Incidence data for women in the region of Gothenburg in Sweden and in Denmark were used as references to estimate the risk by calculation of the standardized incidence ratio (SIR). Eleven of the 13 nurse anaesthetists were exposed to anaesthetic gases before onset of MS. Mean duration of exposure before diagnosis was 14.4 years. 10 cases were diagnosed in the study period 1980-99, resulting in significantly high SIRs of 2.9 and 2.8 with the Gothenburg and the Danish reference data, respectively. (101517)
CIS 03-677 Working conditions and occupational hazards in veterinary clinics. (French: Conditions de travail et risques professionnels dans les cliniques vétérinaires) Roussel C., Barret G., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2003, No.94, p.161-167. 24 ref. (In French) Internet: This article presents the results of a survey on the occupational hazards faced by persons working in urban veterinary clinics, together with the findings from a survey of published literature summarizing the main pathologies encountered in this sector of activity. The survey involved 43 persons employed in veterinary services in the French department of Val d'Oise. The main hazards highlighted included exposure to ionizing radiation and chemicals (in particular anaesthetic gases and vapours), zoonoses, skin and respiratory allergies, and scratch and bite injuries. (101563)
CIS 03-678 Evaluation of handling-related prevention measures in a hospital. Scorneau A.M., Van de Leemput C., Gilbert P., Médecine du travail & Ergonomie / Arbeidsgezondheitszorg & Ergonomie, 2001, Vol.XXXVIII, No.1, p.67-73. 23 ref. (In ) Internet: The purpose of this study was to evaluate prevention measures relative to manual handling in the specific context of health care in hospitals, a sector where numerous studies have confirmed the prevalence of back problems. The survey was carried out among hospital nursing personnel who had followed a training course on patient handling. Analysis of the results shows that the perception of the training by the participants corresponds to the objective of primary prevention, namely increasing risk awareness. Further analysis of the difficulties experienced highlights their diversity as well as the interconnection between handling and other professional constraints. It is concluded that in order to be effective, handling training must be part of a global ergonomic approach. (101606)
CIS 03-679 Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in hairdressers. Best M., French G., Ciantar J., Didzys D., Fitzgerald C., Moore K., Roberts M., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2002, Vol.18, No.1, p.67-76. Illus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among hairdressers. A self-report questionnaire was distributed to a cross-sectional sample of 204 hairdressers. There were 143 responses (70%), among which 137 hairdressers indicated the presence of WMSDs, particularly in the neck, shoulders and lower back. Standing and awkward posture appeared to be the major work-related factors associated with WMSDs. Gender, hours worked per week, age and previous non-work-related injury also had an effect, but years of experience and previous education on injury prevention did not. Based on these results, possible causal factors and suggestions for future research are discussed. (101684)
CIS 03-680 Lipid profile of firefighters over time: Opportunities for prevention. Soteriades E.S., Kales S.N., Liarokapis D., Christoudias S.G., Tucker S.A., Christiani D.C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.44, No.9, p.840-846. Illus. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: Heart disease is the primary cause of on-duty deaths in firefighters, but little is known about their lipid profile. In this study, the lipid profile was evaluated in relation to other cardiovascular disease risk factors in 321 firefighters at a baseline examination. Comparisons were performed for 285 of these firefighters four years later. The average cholesterol level declined from 224mg/dL to 214mg/dL. Conversely, both obesity (body mass index ≥30) and triglycerides (≥200mg/dL) increased over time. The proportion of firefighters taking lipid-lowering medications increased from 3% to 12%. Despite the declines in cholesterol levels and increases in treatment rates, a considerable number of firefighters had persistently elevated cholesterol, and only a minority were receiving adequate treatment. (101927)
CIS 03-681 Characteristics and toxicological processing of postmortem pilot specimens from fatal civil aviation accidents. Chaturvedi A.K., Smith D.R., Soper J.W., Canfield D.V., Whinnery J.E., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.74, No.3, p.252-259. Illus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: Autopsied biological samples from civil aviation accident pilot fatalities are submitted to the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) for toxicological evaluation. However, such evaluation is dependent on types and amounts of submitted samples, and obtaining suitable samples is governed by the nature of the accident. The characteristics of these samples and their toxicological processing have not been well documented in the literature. Therefore, the CAMI Toxicology Database was searched for these aspects. It was found that the toxicologically preferred samples of blood and urine were available in 78% and 56% of the cases, respectively. Other samples were also frequently available. Samples were primarily analyzed for combustion gases, alcohol and drugs. An effective quality control is maintained throughout the process. It is concluded that in the majority of the aviation accidents, sufficient amounts and types of biological samples were submitted for toxicological evaluation. (101779)
CIS 03-682 Recycling - Are we in control?. (German: Recycling - Alles im Griff?) Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 252p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 20.50., ISBN 3-89701-921-3 (In German) Internet: Proceedings of a conference on safety and health, legal aspects and technologies relating to recycling held at Dortmund, Germany, on 4 and 5 June 2002. Main topics covered: European and German regulations and their implications; design of products with a view to their recyclability; recycling of hazardous materials in automobiles; recycling of automobile textiles; recycling of electronic waste; disassembly of electronic equipment; recycling of bromine in plastics containing brominated flame retardants; analysis of the ecoefficiency of recyclable PET mineral water bottles; plastics recycling; waste composting and fermentation; risks to health from bioaerosols formed in composting units and validity of specific IgGs as exposure markers; particle-counting as an indirect measure of airborne microorganisms in waste treatment plants; exposure to microorganisms in waste collection. (101700)
CIS 03-683 Conditions of work in the fishing sector - A comprehensive standard (a Convention supplemented by a Recommendation) on work in the fishing sector - Report V (1). (French: Conditions de travail dans le secteur de la pêche - Normes d'ensemble (une convention complétée par une recommandation) sur le travail dans le secteur de la pêche - Rapport V (1); Spanish: Condiciones de trabajo en el sector pesquero - Una norma general (un convenio complementado con una recomendación) sobre el trabajo en el sector pesquero - Informe V (1)) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. 190p. Illus. Price: CHF 20.00., ISBN 92-2-113039-8 (En), ISBN 92-2-213039-1 (fr), ISBN 92-2-313039-5 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This report examines existing legislation and practice concerning labour conditions in the fishing sector in ILO member States. It was prepared following the decision to place on the agenda of the 92nd (June 2004) session of the International Labour Conference an item concerning a comprehensive standard (a Convention supplemented by a Recommendation) on work in the fishing sector. The report is divided into eight chapters: general overview of the world's fishing sector, with an emphasis on issues particularly relevant to labour conditions; reasons for consideration of a new, comprehensive standard for the fishing sector; laws and regulations related to what might be considered prerequisites for working in the fishing sector; laws and regulations concerning employment on board fishing vessels; occupational safety and health; social security, ship owners' liability for sick and injured fishermen and retraining of fishermen for other work; administration, enforcement, coordination between relevant agencies and consultations with social partners; summary based on the information provided in the report, relevant to the preparation of a comprehensive new fishing standard. A questionnaire is enclosed as well as ILO recommendations and conventions concerning the fishing sector. (101793)
CIS 03-684 Farm child UK - Part I: A report on the nature and incidence of accidents and zoonoses to children under sixteen years on farms and in the countryside - Part II: A literature review of the nature and incidence of accidents and zoonoses affecting children as farm residents and also users of the countryside. Jones L.M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. xii, 169p. Illus. 211 ref. Price: GBP 30.00., ISBN 0-7176-2209-6 (In English) Internet: This report presents the findings from a prospective quantitative and qualitative study conducted by collecting data on accidents and zoonoses to children under the age of 16 on farms and in the countryside over a 16-month period through primary care networks. General practitioners were selected from defined regions to collect data on farm accidents and zoonoses seen in children in primary care. The data were analysed to identify the nature and numbers of accidents and illness occurring in children. A typology of high risk situations for childhood accidents and zoonoses connected with the countryside and agriculture is presented and commented in light of the findings from available literature. (101919)
CIS 03-685 Fatal unintentional farm injuries among persons less than 20 years of age in the United States: Geographic profiles. Adekoya N., Pratt S.G., Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, July 2001. xvii, 47p. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: More than two million youth below 20 years of age are potentially exposed to safety hazards on farms each year in the United States, either as farm residents, farm family workers, hired workers, children of migrant or seasonal workers, or farm visitors. Youth on farms may be exposed to a wide range of hazards, including machinery, electric current, firearms, bodies of water, grain storage facilities and livestock. As a place of work and a place of residence, farms present unique challenges to injury prevention. This document presents data by state, region, age group, sex and cause for all youth fatalities on U.S. farms between 1982 and 1996. These data indicate that nearly 2,200 youth were fatally injured on farms during this 15-year period, and that the leading causes of death varied considerably across geographical areas. (101935)
CIS 03-686 Forest workers - A constant challenge for occupational science. (German: Der arbeitende Mensch im Wald - eine ständige Herausforderung für die Arbeitswissenschaft) Gröger V., Lewark S., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 173p. Illus. 217 ref. Price: EUR 15.50., ISBN 3-89701-908-6 (In German) Internet: Forestry work is strenuous and involves risks of occupational accidents and diseases. For this reason, it has been the focus of many occupational safety and health studies. This publication begins with an overview of the forestry sector in Germany and a description of its historical development leading to the current level of mechanization. It goes on to describe the hazards linked to forestry work, the occupational diseases and accidents they are likely to cause, and the preventive systems to be implemented. It also provides an up-to-date report on current occupational science research in this sector. (101695)
CIS 03-687 Public emergency services: Social dialogue in a changing environment. (French: Les services publics d'urgence: dialogue social dans un environnement en mutation; Spanish: Los servicios públicos de urgencia: El diálogo social en un medio en constante evolución) Tomoda S., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. v, 110p. Illus. Price: CHF 20.00., ISBN 92-2-113399-0 (En), ISBN 92-2-213399-4 (fr), ISBN 92-2-313399-8 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: Prepared as discussion basis for an ILO Joint Meeting held from 27 to 31 January 2003, this report addresses the working conditions at public emergency services in a changing environment. Indeed, workers in theses services (firemen, policemen, emergency service workers) face events that may cause acute psychological stress and the volume of their work is growing as a result of rising crime rates, increasing number of traffic accidents, acts of terrorism and demographic factors requiring more emergency medical services. Main topics covered: nature of public emergency services; employment trends; working conditions; occupational safety and health; human resources; coordination among different services: social dialogue and rights at work. (101540)
CIS 03-688 Prevention of occupational hazards as it applies to workers of temporary employment agencies working in enterprises using their services. (Spanish: La prevención de riesgos laborales de los trabajadores de las empresas de trabajo temporal en las empresas usuarias) Moltó García J.I., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 146p. Price: EUR 20.31., ISBN 84-7425-643-7 (In Spanish) Internet: This publication describes the responsibilities of employment agencies who place temporary workers in enterprises with respect to occupational safety and health. Contents: Spanish occupational hazard prevention system and how it applies to temporary employment agency workers; occupational safety and health responsibilities resulting from the hiring of workers and the execution of contracts for the provision of personnel; control of the occupational hazard prevention measures for workers supplied by employment agencies; penalties in case of non compliance with the legal provisions applicable to occupational safety and health. (101615)
CIS 03-689 Work-related stress and strain among dentists in private practice. (German: Arbeitsbelastungen bei Zahnärzten in niedergelassener Praxis) Meyer V.P., Brehler.R., Castro W.H.M., Nentwig C.G., Institut der Deutschen Zahnärzte, Universitätsstrasse 73, 50931 Köln, Germany, 2001. 167p. Illus. 95 ref. Price: EUR 29.95., ISBN 3-934280-24-2 (In German) Internet: The aim of this questionnaire study was to identify specific occupational stress and strain among dentists in private practice and to examine the prevalence of occupational dermatoses, spinal complaints and mental stressors. The questionnaire was designed to allow comparison with a previous study on stress conducted in 1984. Between 1984 and 1999, exhaustion had risen from 25% to 57%, the subjectively perceived demands on concentration from 61% to 81% and stress due to professional responsibility from 6% to 14%. Approx. 87% dentists reported having experienced neck and back pain in the past and 45% reported suffering from atopic diseases with eczema being most common, followed by atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. (101676)
CIS 03-690 Exploratory study of musculoskeletal problems and accidents among film and video technicians. (French: Etude exploratoire des problèmes musculosquelettiques et des accidents chez les techniciens du cinéma et de la vidéo) Bourdouxhe M., Granger D., Toulouse G., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3C2, Canada, May 2003. vii, 135p. 95 ref., ISBN 2-551-21803-9 (In French) Internet: 650 technicians in the film industry, representing one third of the total employment in the sector in the Province of Quebec, answered a questionnaire on musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs), accidents, working and employment conditions and non-occupational factors. Experienced technicians helped in interpreting the responses. Individual interviews with technicians working in jobs involving a high risk of MSDs were also carried out. A high incidence of MSDs was found, with 88% of the study population having experienced MAS symptoms at least once in the twelve months preceding the survey. The most common areas where pain was felt were the lower back (64%), the neck (55%) and the upper back and shoulders (40%). Most MSDs involved jobs typically held by women. The report also discusses the various types of accidents having occurred in this sector of activity, as well as the lack of sleep and stress factors. (102000)
CIS 03-691 Challenges and opportunities facing public utilities. (French: Les défis à relever et les tendances à saisir par les services publics de distribution; Spanish: Los retos y oportunidades que se plantean a los servicios públicos) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. v, 79p. Illus. 17 ref. Price: CHF 17.50., ISBN 92-2-113616-7 (En), ISBN 92-2-213616-0 (fr), ISBN 92-2-313616-4 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This report was presented for discussion at a tripartite meeting on challenges and opportunities facing public utilities. It reviews some of the continuing trends concerning the sector's employment and social issues and considers the role of multinational enterprises in the sector and the impact of mergers and acquisitions. Renewable energy and sustainable development are also key challenges that open up opportunities for governments, employers and workers. The case of water utilities is also specifically examined, as this sector embarks on the path that electricity and gas have already started. A chapter is devoted to occupational safety and health in this sector. Finally, the report reflects on the importance of social dialogue in a rapidly globalizing industry. (101883)
CIS 03-692 Guide to safety in agriculture. (French: Guide pour la sécurité dans les travaux agricoles; Spanish: Guía de seguridad en los trabajos agrícolas) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1969. xiii, 247p. Illus. Index. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This guide on safety in agricultural work covers the following aspects: accident risks in agriculture; general principles of accident prevention; farm buildings; electricity; pressure vessels; driers, silos, stacks and pits; garages and engine rooms; general precautions with machinery; engines and transmissions; soil and crop preparation machines; harvesting machines; other machines; tractors; other vehicles; fixed hoisting and transport appliances; hand tools, implements and ladders; animals; dangerous substances; construction, maintenance and repairs; blasting; fire-fighting; ergonomics; other precautions; personal protective equipment; first aid; farm safety and health organization. The English-language version of this guide was reprinted in India in 1985 (see CIS 88-1555). (101668)
CIS 03-693 Code of safety for fishermen and fishing vessels - Part A: Safety and health practice for skippers and crews; Part B: Safety and health requirements for the construction and equipment of fishing vessels. (French: Recueil de règles de sécurité pour les pêcheurs et les navires de pêche - Partie A: Directives pratiques de sécurité et d'hygiène à l'usage des patrons et des équipages; Partie B: Dispositions à prévoir en matière de sécurité et d'hygiène pour la construction et l'équipement des navires de pêche; Spanish: Código de seguridad para pescadores y buques pesqueros - Parte A: Directrices prácticas de seguridad e higiene para patrones y tripulaciones; Parte B: Prescripciones de seguridad e higiene para la construcción y el equipo de buques pesqueros) International Labour Office (ILO), Inter-Governmental Maritime Consultative Organization; London, United Kingdom. Part A: 1968, 108p., Illus., Index. Part B: 1974, 158p., Illus., ISBN 92-801-1040-3 (B En), ISBN 92-801-1041-1 (A En), ISBN 92-801-2033-6 (B fr), ISBN 92-801-2034-4 (A fr), ISBN 92-801-3047-1 (A es), ISBN 92-801-3048-X (B es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: Code of safety for fishermen and fishing vessels in two volumes. Part A consists of a code of safety and health practice for skippers and crews of fishing vessels. It deals with the fundamentals of safety and health for fishermen and presents safety principles of common knowledge and practice in navigation and fishing for reducing the risk of injury to fishermen and accidents to equipment. Part B defines the safety and health requirements for the construction and equipment of fishing vessels. It deals with the design, construction, stability, machinery and equipment of fishing vessels 24m or more in length as well as with fire protection, crew protection, life-saving appliances and crew accommodation. (101670)
CIS 03-694 Use of personal protective equipment in the agricultural sector. (Polish: Środki ochrony indywidualnej do stosowania w rolnictwie) Bargieł H., ed., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 1999. 118p. Illus. 56 ref., ISBN 83-87354-37-6 (In Polish) Internet: Contents of this booklet on personal protective equipment in the agricultural sector: dangerous chemicals to which agricultural workers are exposed; methods of choosing personal protective equipment; types and use of personal protective equipment; methods of maintenance and storage. It also includes a list of the different types of personal protective equipment. (101904)
CIS 03-695 Mechanical forestry work. (Spanish: Explotación forestal mecánica) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 53p. Illus. 23 ref., ISBN 84-7425-647-X (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in mechanical forestry work and the main corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: machines and equipment; electrical hazards; physical hazards (noise and vibration); harmful chemicals; fires hazards; workplace design; human and organizational factors; other risk factors; legislation; risk assessment methods. (101526)
CIS 03-696 Safety and health in forestry work. (French: Sécurité et hygiène dans les travaux forestiers; Spanish: Seguridad e higiene en los trabajos forestales) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1969. xi, 165p. Index. Price: CHF 9.00; USD 2.25. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This code of practice on safety and health in forestry work gives recommendations concerning all operations undertaken to establish or maintain forests and to harvest and transport timber. The guidance is aimed at authorities, professional groups, employer and workers, forestry equipment manufacturers and persons with responsibilities in occupational safety and health in forestry. Main topics covered: general provisions; signalling; hand tools and implements; ladders; engines; machines and portable power-driven tools; electrical installations; hoisting and transport appliances; ropes, chains and accessories; rigging; flammable liquids; pressure vessels; garages; climbing trees; felling and associated operations; buckling, limbing and barking; skidding; rolling and sliding; loading, unloading, hoisting and carrying operations; stacks and dumps; road transport; transport, storage and handling of explosives; blasting; logging railways; log ponds and timber floating; firearms; poisonous plants, insects and snakes; dangerous substances; personal protective equipment; medical care and supervision; safety organization; accommodation and feeding of workers. This edition precedes the 1998 Code of Practice on the same topic (see CIS 98-1284). (101667)
CIS 03-697 Guide to safety and health in forestry work. (French: Guide pour la sécurité et l'hygiène dans les travaux forestiers; Spanish: Guía de seguridad et higiene en los trabajos forestales) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 4th reprint, 1979. xii, 223p. Illus. Index., ISBN 92-2-100975-0 (En) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This guide on safety and health in forestry work provides practical guidance on the risks involved in various forestry operations. It is subdivided into four parts. Part 1 covers specific aspects concerning the forestry workers and their environment (physiology of heavy work; nutritional requirements; rest periods and leave; workers needing special protection; climate and weather; plants, animals, insects, infections). Part 2 defines risks and protection measures for tools, equipment, machines and materials used for forestry work. Part 3 gives advice on organization and techniques of main activities. Part 4 develops various issues which should be integrated in an active programme of occupational safety and health. In appendix: sample accident report form. (101669)
CIS 03-698 Safety and health in the non-ferrous metals industries. (French: La sécurité et la santé dans les industries de métaux non ferreux; Spanish: La seguridad y la salud en las industrias de los metales no ferrosos) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. xiii, 175p. Illus. Index. Price: CHF 25.00., ISBN 92-2-111640-9 (En), ISBN 92-2-211640-2 (fr), ISBN 92-2-311640-6 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This ILO code of practice provides workers, employers and governments with practical safety and health guidelines for non-ferrous metals production, including aluminium, copper, lead, nickel and zinc. It focuses on the general principles of prevention and protection, including risk assessment and management, training, and workplace and health surveillance. The main part of the code identifies and examines a range of physical hazards that are commonly encountered during the production of non-ferrous metals such as noise, vibration, heat stress, radiation, confined spaces, dust and chemicals. Safety and health measures for working with furnaces, molten metal, alloys and recycling are also discussed. (101881)
CIS 03-699 Laying of floor covering. (Spanish: Recubrimiento de suelos) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 53p. Illus. 31 ref., ISBN 84-7425-639-9 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards that exist in the laying of all types of floor covering and the main corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; physical hazards (noise. burns, radiation); harmful chemicals; fires and explosions; workplace design; psychosocial factors; other risk factors; legislation; risk assessment methods. (101525)
CIS 03-700 Document for guidance - 1975 - An international maritime training guide. (French: Document destiné à servir de guide - 1975 - Guide international de formation maritime; Spanish: Documento que ha de servir de guía - 1975 - Guía internacional para la formación de la gente de mar) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1976. ii, 55p. Price: CHF 10.00., ISBN 92-2-101462-2 (En), ISBN 92-2-201462-6 (fr), ISBN 92-2-301462-X (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This guidance document on international maritime training requirements was prepared jointly by the ILO and the IMCO. It identifies the areas where training is required: radar navigation; international regulations for preventing collisions at sea; practice of navigation at sea; electronic systems of position fixing and echo sounders; electronic direction finders; aids to navigation; meteorology; compasses; signalling by international code signals; fire prevention and fire-fighting appliances; life saving; emergency procedures; ship manoeuvring and handling; ship construction and stability; cargo handling and stowage; training and qualifications of officers and crew of ships carrying hazardous or noxious chemicals in bulk; medical aid; search and rescue; prevention of sea pollution; main and auxiliary prime movers; boilers and pressure vessels; pumping and piping systems; automatic and remote control systems; electrical and electronic equipment and installation; use of tools. Appendices give more detailed guidance on matters to be covered in training courses and examinations. (101664)
CIS 03-701 Provision of welfare facilities at transient railway-infrastructure maintenance and renewals sites. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 2001. 2p. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: This information sheet is aimed at employers, contractors, subcontractors, the self-employed and those who control maintenance and repair work on railway infrastructure. It gives guidance on the provision of welfare facilities at railway work sites. Contents: taking welfare facilities into account in the planning of the work; toilet facilities; washing facilities; facilities for clothing; rest facilities; supply of drinking water. Replaces CIS 01-415. (101733)
CIS 03-702 The food canning industry. (Spanish: Industria de las conservas alimenticias) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 45p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-553-B (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in the food canning industry 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. (101652)
CIS 03-703 Restaurants, bars and cafeterias. (Spanish: Restaurantes, bares y cafeterías) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 33p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-551-1 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in restaurants, bars and cafeterias and corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; harmful chemicals; biological agents; fires and explosions; workplace design; work organization; legislation; risk assessment methods. (101654)
CIS 03-704 Ceramics workshops. (Spanish: Taller de cerámica) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 49p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-550-3 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of possible hazards in ceramic workshops and corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; physical hazards; harmful chemicals; fires and explosions; workplace design; work organization; legislation; risk assessment methods. (101655)
CIS 03-705 Funeral services. (Spanish: Funerarias) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 43p. Illus. 29 ref., ISBN 84-7425-648-8 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in funeral services and the main corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; harmful chemicals; biological agents; fires and explosions; workplace design; psychosocial and organizational factors; other risk factors; legislation; risk assessment methods. (101527)
CIS 03-706 Social workers. (Spanish: Trabajadores sociales) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 51p. Illus. 32 ref., ISBN 84-7425-640-2 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists describes potential hazards involved in social work and the main corresponding prevention elements. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; harmful chemicals; physical hazards (noise); biological agents; fires and explosions; workplace design; psychosocial factors; other risk factors; legislation; risk assessment methods. (101528)
CIS 03-707 Office work. (Spanish: Trabajo en oficinas) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 45p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-549-X (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in the office environment 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 method. (101651)
CIS 03-708 Dry cleaning. (Spanish: Tintorerías) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 37p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-552-X1 (In Spanish) Internet: This guide in the form of check lists of potential hazards in dry cleaning and corresponding prevention elements is aimed at managers of small enterprises. Contents: workplaces and equipment; electrical hazards; physical hazards; harmful chemicals; fires and explosions; workplace design; work organization; legislation; risk assessment methods. (101653)
CIS 03-709 The event safety guide - A guide to health, safety and welfare at music and similar events. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 2002. vi, 218p. Illus. 163 ref. Index. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2453-6 (In English) Internet: Contents of this guide to health, safety and welfare at music concerts: planning and management; venue and site design; fire safety; emergency planning; communication; crowd management; transport management; structures; barriers; electrical installations and lighting; food, drinks and water; merchandising and special licensing (for example for tattooing, body piercing, etc.); amusements, attractions and promotional displays; sanitary facilities; waste management; noise and vibration; special effects, fireworks and pyrotechnics; camping; people with special needs; medical, ambulance and first-air management; information and welfare; children; performers; TV and media; stadium music events; arena events; large events; small events; classical music events; unfenced or unticketted events; all-night musical events; unlicensed events; health and safety responsibilities. (101828)
CIS 03-710 Managing health and safety in swimming pools. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 2002. viii, 128p. lllus. 73 ref. Index. Price: GBP 10.50., ISBN 0-7176-1388-7 (In English) Internet: 10-12 persons drown each year in public swimming pools in the United Kingdom. Aimed primarily at owners and operators of public swimming pools but also at designers and manufacturers, this booklet provides guidance on the risks associated with swimming pool operation, and on precautions to help achieve a safer environment for both the public who use swimming pools, and employees who work at them. It updates an earlier version (see CIS 89-1237) by taking recent regulations into account. Contents: general management of health and safety; practical aspects of managing health and safety; physical environment; supervision arrangements to safeguard pool users; general maintenance of plant and equipment; pool water treatment system. 10 appendices. (101830)
CIS 03-711 Call centres. (French: Les centres d'appels téléphoniques) Cazeau G., Feigel G., Heye P., Perrais R., Pomian J.L., Travail et sécurité, Apr. 2003, No.628, Insert. 6p. Illus. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: Call centres are multiplying rapidly thanks to the Internet and high-speed telecommunication networks. At the beginning of 2002, there were approximately 200,000 workers employed in 2500 call centres in France. Aimed at the operating centres of call companies, this safety information sheet offers guidance for designing, expanding or renovating these centres. Contents: main characteristics of call centres; work equipment; specific constraints and hazards (working conditions and working environment, noise, stress); guidance for the layout of the premises; acoustics; lighting; thermal environment; workplace layout (screen, software application, keyboard, mouse, work organization). (101994)
CIS 03-712 Safety and health good practice on-line for the healthcare sector. (Danish: God arbejdsmiljøpraksis online for sundhedssektoren; Dutch: Goede praktijken voor veiligheid en gezondheid in de gezondheidssector, online; Finnish: Internet-sivusto terveydenhuollon hyvistä työturvallisuus- ja terveyskäytännöistä; French: Les bonnes pratiques en matière de santé et de sécurité dans le secteur des soins de santé, en ligne; German: Gute praktische Lösungen online - Arbeits- und Gesundheitsschutz im Gesundheitssektor; Greek: Ámesē diasúndesē me tēn kalê praktikê asfáleias kai ugeías ston toméa ugeionomikês períthalpsēs; Italian: Buona prassi on-line in materia di sicurezza e salute per il settore sanitario; Portuguese: Em linha: Boas práticas em matéria de segurança e saúde para o Sector da Saúde; Spanish: Buenas prácticas en seguridad y salud online para el sector de la atención sanitaria; Swedish: God arbetsmiljöpraxis för hälsovårssektorn via direktanslutning) European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Via 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain, 2002. 2p. Illus. (In Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish) Internet: Data sheet on the main risks of work in the healthcare sector, and on the means of preventing them. Contents: main risk factors; risk assessment and safety management; particular issues (needle injuries; work shifts and nightwork; latex allergy; manual handling and stressful working postures; psychosocial issues). (101552)
CIS 03-713 NIOSH Alert - Preventing deaths, injuries, and illnesses of young workers. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2002, USA, July 2003. 22p. Illus. 67 ref. (In English) Internet: An average of 67 workers under age 18 died from work-related injuries each year during 1992-2000 in the United States. In 1998, an estimated 77,000 required treatment in hospital emergency rooms. This document describes 11 accidents illustrating the risks that young workers may face while at work. It summarizes available information about work-related injuries among young workers, identifies work that is especially hazardous, and offers recommendations for prevention. (101888)
CIS 03-714 The children in footwear making in Biñan, Laguna (booklet); Hope for the children of Biñan: A community wakes up to protect the younger generation (video recording). Estrella-Gust D.P., Occupational Safety And Health Center, North Ave. cor. Agham Road Diliman, 1104 Quezon City, Philippines, [c2002]. 13p. + video recording (VHS format). (In English) Internet: The purpose of this study was to determine the health status of child workers in Biñan, located in a region of the Philippines having many small footwear manufacturing enterprises, as well as to document and record their working conditions and the hazards to which they are exposed. It is a contribution to the implementation of ILO Convention 182 on the elimination of the worst forms of child labor. Teams from the Occupational Safety and Health Center visited 14 pre-selected workplaces in the area, and a medical team interviewed and examined 93 working children. A variety of health hazards were observed. On physical examination, 30% of children examined were found to have enlarged lymph nodes, usually indicating ongoing bacterial or viral infections of the upper respiratory tract. The research team recommended that the owners and managers of these enterprises be given instruction on basic occupational safety and health. Training modules were developed, based on the research findings. (101900)
CIS 03-715 Safecomp 2000: The 19th International Conference on Computer Safety, Reliability and Security. Koornneef F., van der Meulen M., eds., Safety Science, Dec. 2002, Vol.40, No.9, p.715-847 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: This special issue contains a selection of papers presented at a conference on computer safety, reliability and security held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, 24-27 October 2000. Contents: safety, reliability and security of industrial computer systems; assessing the benefits of formal methods for software development; proposed framework for dependability engineering of critical computing systems; presentation of a tool for the design of safety-critical systems; software tools to support incident reporting in safety-critical systems; assessing the reliability of diverse fault-tolerant software-based systems; method for the assessment of programmable systems; presentation of a safety analysis methodology; investigation of accidents and incidents caused by software failures. (101690)
CIS 03-716 Musculoskeletal disorders and office work: Impact of office furniture on the posture and muscular strain of the upper extremities. (French: Troubles musculo-squelettiques et bureautique: impact du mobilier de bureau sur la posture et la sollicitation musculaire du membre supérieur) Delisle A., Larivière C., Plamondon A., Imbeau D., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 3C2, Canada, Feb. 2003. v, 34p. Illus. 42 ref. CD-ROM containing the PDF version of the document is included (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)., ISBN 2-551-21712-1 (In French) Internet: The objective of the present study was to establish whether the use of height-adjustable office desks offering the possibility of resting the forearms may lead to a reduction in muscular strain. A total of 18 subjects carried out a 20min task at a computer, requiring alternating between the use of the keyboard and the mouse, on three different types of desk. Surface electromyography of the trapezium, anterior deltoid and finger extender muscles, together with three-dimensional kinematics of the preferred upper extremity and the head were used to compare the furniture types. The best results were obtained with the height-adjustable desk offering the possibility of resting the forearms. (101725)
CIS 03-717 New technologies and society today: The impact of robots. (Spanish: Nuevas tecnologías y sociedad actual: el impacto de la robótica) López Peláez A., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 317p. Illus. 411 ref. Price : EUR 22.81., ISBN 84-7425-646-1 (In Spanish) Internet: This publication analyses the impact of robotics and automation on working conditions, enterprise organization and society at large. Main topics covered: industrial robotics; robots in the services sector (robots for cleaning and for building); sociological analysis of the consequences of automation; changes in employment and in work as a result of robotization; outlook for advanced robotization; impact of robotization on the work schedules, training, qualifications and job security; new models of work, organization and societal structure; impact of robotics on the physical and mental health of workers; scenarios for a future technological society (fractured or integrated). (101616)
CIS 03-718 Automatic data capture opportunities for health and safety in industry. Daniel C.D., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. iv, 35p. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2676-8 (In English) Internet: The aim of this project was to raise industry awareness of automatic data capture (ADC) technologies for health and safety, survey problem areas in several industry sectors, identify what technology is currently used or available, identify opportunities and encourage feedback. The research was conducted through telephone interviews, site visits, presentations and use of the Internet and email. The research project concluded with a seminar. The main finding is that ADC is particularly suited to the areas of access control, transport, maintenance and worker exposure monitoring. (101630)
CIS 03-719 Health promotion at new types of workplaces. (German: Gesundheitsförderung an neuen Arbeitsplätzen) Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 161p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 15.00., ISBN 3-89701-919-1 (In German) Internet: Proceedings of a conference on challenges to occupational safety and health posed by new forms of work, held in Hanover, Germany, on 18 June 2001. Contents: future organizational structures and forms of work; work requirements and mental stress related to new forms of work; challenges for occupational safety and heath professionals; strain from call centre workplaces; workplace layout as a means of lowering employee turnover and absenteeism in call centres; studies on the advantages of teleworking and the occupational safety and health hazards related to this form of work; modified health circles as instruments of health promotion among teleworkers. (101699)
CIS 03-720 Work, technology, safety and health in a knowledge society - Knowledge management in learning organizations. (German: Arbeit, Technik, Sicherheit und Gesundheit in der Wissensgesellschaft - Wissensmanagement in lernenden Organisationen) Kiesau G., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, ed., Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 310p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 24.50., ISBN 3-89701-830-6 (In German) Internet: Proceedings of a workshop on the knowledge management in the field of occupational safety and health held in Dortmund, Germany on 6-7 March 2001. Main topics covered: how to use the internal knowledge base of the enterprise; knowledge management in a global enterprise; individual and enterprise-level learning processes; from knowledge transmission to knowledge management; trends in occupational functions in learning organizations; safety and health management; use of multimedia learning tools; information management and communication using the Internet. (101874)
CIS 03-721 Work with display screen equipment - Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 as amended by the Health and Safety (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2002 - Guidance on Regulations. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., Feb. 2003. iv, 72p. Illus. 35 ref. Price: GBP 8.95., ISBN 0-7176-2582-6 (In English) Internet: This booklet provides guidance on the Health and Safety (Display Screen) Regulations 1992 (CIS 93-24), which came into force on 1 January 1993, and which implement Directive 90/270/EEC of 29 May 1990 (CIS 90-1069). Contents: type of equipment and categories of workers covered by the Regulations; analysis of workstations to assess and reduce risks associated with postural and visual problems, fatigue and stress; requirements for workstations (equipment, environment, interface between computer and user); daily work routine of users; eyes and eyesight (eyesight and vision screening tests and provision of corrective appliances); provision of training; provision of information; exemption certificates. Appendices include guidance on workstation minimum requirements; possible health effects of display screen equipment, guidance to reduce risks with portable display screen equipment, mouse, trackball and other pointing device and a checklist for VDU workstation risk assessment. Replaces CIS 01-484. (101536)
CIS 03-722 The law on VDUs - An easy guide. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2nd ed. Feb. 2003. vi, 28p. Illus. 5 ref. Price: GBP 8.50., ISBN 0-7176-2602-4 (In English) Internet: This booklet provides guidance on the British Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 (see CIS 93-24). Contents: health problems associated with work at visual display units; identifying the workers and the workstations covered; training users and assessors; assessing workstations and reducing risks; making sure new workstations comply with the minimum requirements; planning breaks and activity changes; arranging eye and eyesight tests; keeping users informed. A checklist is included. Replaces CIS 94-1967. (101797)
CIS 03-723 Guidelines on office ergonomics. Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road #05-01, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 2001. CD-ROM containing report in PDF format (33p. Illus. 9 ref.). (In English) Internet: With the rapid pace of development of office computerization, the use of visual display units (VDUs) has become widespread in modern offices. However, VDUs have often been placed without sufficient attention to ergonomic principles. This, combined with poor environmental conditions and work stress may contribute to a variety of health problems, sickness absenteeism and productivity loss. This CD-ROM provides guidelines on good occupational health practices in offices. Contents: health aspects of office work; workstation design (work surface, chair, screen, other office equipment); work posture (correct working postures, preventing poor working postures, manual handling); work environment (lighting, ambient noise, indoor air quality); work practices (task design and planning, task variation, training, rest breaks). Appendices include: office ergonomics checklist; medical examinations for persons working at screens; acceptable limits for indoor air quality parameters. (101950)
CIS 03-724 Case-referent survey of young adults with mesothelioma: I. Lung fibre analyses. McDonald J.C., Armstrong B.G., Edwards C.W., Gibbs A.R., Lloyd H.M., Pooley F.D., Ross D.J., Rudd R.M., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2001, Vol.45, No.7, p.513-518. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: The study was aimed at the determination of lung tissue concentration of asbestos and other mineral fibres by type and length in persons with mesothelioma aged 50 years or less at time of diagnosis, compared with controls of similar age and geographical region. In this age group, it was thought that most work-related exposures would have been since 1970, when the importation of crocidolite, but not amosite, into the United Kingdom was virtually eliminated. Eligible cases were sought from recent reports by chest physicians to the SWORD occupational disease surveillance scheme. Lung tissue samples were obtained at autopsy from 69 male and four female cases, and mineral fibres identified, sized and counted by electron microscopy. Unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios increased steadily with concentration of crocidolite, amosite, tremolite and all amphiboles combined. In this young age group, amosite and crocidolite fibres could account for about 80% of cases of mesothelioma, and tremolite for some 7%. Contrary to expectation, however, some 90% of cases were in men who had started work before 1970; this was so whether or not amosite or crocidolite was found in lung tissue. See also CIS 03-725. (101971)
CIS 03-725 Case-referent survey of young adults with mesothelioma: II. Occupational analyses. McDonald J.C., Edwards C.W., Gibbs A.R., Lloyd H.M., Pooley F.D., Ross D.J., Rudd R.M., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2001, Vol.45, No.7, p.519-523. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was aimed at the identification of occupations with an increased risk of developing mesothelioma in persons aged 50 years or less, and at the matching up of these occupations with lung tissue concentration of asbestos fibres by type. Eligible cases were sought from recent reports by chest physicians to the SWORD occupational disease surveillance scheme. Work histories were obtained for 115 men and 13 women. Lung tissue samples were obtained at autopsy from 69 male and four female cases, and mineral fibres identified, sized and counted by electron microscopy. Of 37 industrial occupations analysed, odds ratios were significantly raised in eight: five in the construction industry and the others in shipbuilding, the manufacture of cement products and the manufacture of non-metallic mineral products (including asbestos). Mesothelioma in this young age group is concentrated among carpenters, plumbers, electricians and insulators in the construction industry, and is mainly attributable to amphibole exposure. Work in shipbuilding and manufacture of mineral products was less important than in earlier studies. See also CIS 03-724. (101972)
CIS 03-726 Applications of low-cost, dual-fraction dust samplers. Kenny L., Chung K., Dilworth M., Hammond C., Wynn Jones J., Shreeve Z., Winton J., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Jan. 2001, Vol.45, No.1, p.35-42. Illus. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: Porous polyurethane foams provide a low-cost method for separating dust into inhalable and respirable fractions in accordance with recognized sampling conventions. An inhalable dust sampler incorporating a respirable-fraction selector foam was evaluated in a range of industries for occupational dust monitoring. The key issues addressed were those that determine the practicability of the instrument, such as limitations on particulate loading, losses or movements of particles during transportation of samples, and equivalence with conventional respirable dust sampling methods. The new sampler was found to be satisfactory in all these respects. Its key advantage is that it measures both inhalable and respirable dust concentrations in a single sample. (101982)
CIS 03-727 Study of fifteen respirable aerosol samplers used in occupational hygiene. Görner P., Wrobel R., Mička V., Škoda V., Denis J., Fabriès J.F., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Jan. 2001, Vol.45, No.1, p. 43-54, Illus. 52 ref. (In English) Internet: This study focused on fifteen aerosol samplers used to sample the conventional respirable fraction. An aerodynamic particle sizer (APS) method was used to measure the efficiency of the samplers in a low-velocity wind tunnel. Coal dust was used as the test aerosol. The data were fitted by an appropriate mathematical model. Finally, the performance of each sampler was evaluated for bias and accuracy. Most samplers were found suitable for the respirable fraction of aerosols, but several required modification of the flow rate. For real industrial situations, knowledge of the approximate aerosol size distribution can guide the choice of an appropriate sampling technique. (101983)
CIS 03-728 Performance of asbestos fibre counting laboratories by transmission electron microscopy. Kauffer E., Martine M., Grzebyk M., Vigneron J.C., Sandino J.P., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Jan. 2001, Vol.45, No.1, p.61-69. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: Since February 1996, building owners in France are required to ascertain the possible presence of asbestos in surface materials, insulation products and false ceilings. This article reviews three years (1996-1998) of asbestos fibre count reporting and discusses the inter-laboratory testing scheme organized in France to evaluate the performance of laboratories. It is based on an indirect-transfer transmission electron microscopy procedure to measure the airborne asbestos fibre concentration. Each year, eight filters are distributed to each participating laboratory. These filters are obtained by filtering a suspension containing chrysotile or amphibole fibres. In 1996, 36% of the laboratories were rated 1 (the best performers) Performance improved appreciably in the last round where 85% of the laboratories were rated 1. (101984)
CIS 03-729 Concawe Review 8:1. CONCAWE Review, Apr. 1999, Vol.8, No.1, p.1-24. Illus. (In English) Internet: Topics covered in this review of CONCAWE's activities relate mainly to the environmental aspects of the organization's work. Contents: assessing the monetary benefit of improving air quality; European air quality in the future; energy use and CO2 emissions in refinery operations; CONCAWE guidelines on gasoline volatility aspects; the Seveso 2 Directive; developments related to the existing substances regulation; occupational noise and the proposed EC directive for physical agents; best available techniques to reduce emissions from refineries. (101543)
CIS 03-730 Concawe Review 9:1. CONCAWE Review, Apr. 2000, Vol.9, No.1, p.1-24. Illus. (In English) Internet: Topics covered in this review of CONCAWE's activities relate mainly to emissions of petroleum products and their possible adverse effects on human health and the environment. Contents: the complexity of legislation on refineries; carbon, sulfur and hydrogen in oil refineries; estimating the implications of road fuel quality changes on the EU refining industry; the impact of Auto/Oil I and II on refinery costs and global CO2 emissions; trends in European air quality; personal exposure to air pollutants; global harmonized system of hazard communication for chemicals; MTBE in gasoline. (101544)
CIS 03-731 Concawe Review 9:2. CONCAWE Review, Oct. 2000, Vol.9, No.2, p.1-27. Illus. (In English) Internet: This review covers a wide range of topics highlighting the diversity of CONCAWE's work in the areas of environment, safety and health. Contents: emission control at marine terminals; regional ozone levels in Europe; research on automotive particulate matter; CONCAWE's position on a 10ppm sulfur limit on road fuels; disposal of used lubricating oils; downstream oil industry safety statistics; aquatic toxicity testing for petroleum substances. (101545)
CIS 03-732 Concawe Review 10:1. CONCAWE Review, Apr. 2001, Vol.10, No.1, p.1-24. Illus. (In English) Internet: Topics covered in this review of CONCAWE's activities relate mainly to air quality. Contents: validity of model predictions for air quality confirmed by measurements in London; update of a report on motor vehicle emission regulations and fuel specifications; automotive emissions of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; effect of tougher specifications on diesel supply; health issues of oil industry and products; hearing trends in noise-exposed oil refinery workers; dangerous preparations directive; integrity of pipelines in Western Europe. (101546)
CIS 03-733 Concawe Review 10:2. CONCAWE Review, Oct. 2001, Vol.10, No.2, p.1-24. Illus. (In English) Internet: Topics covered in this review of CONCAWE's activities relate mainly to improvements of air quality. Contents: future EU air legislation; implications of the revised large combustion plant directive for the EU refining industry; automotive particulate emissions; impact of the use of hydrogen on CO2 emissions; comment on the "whole effluent assessment" concept; downstream industry safety statistics; CONCAWE's role in the reorganization of the European Union. (101547)
CIS 03-734 Concawe Review 11:1. CONCAWE Review, Apr. 2002, Vol.11, No.1, p.1-24. Illus. (In English) Internet: Topics covered in this review of CONCAWE's activities relate mainly to emission reduction. Contents: economic aspects of biofuel production; SO2 emissions from ships in Europe; the refinery best available technique (BAT) reference document; emissions from modern diesel engines; specifications for non-road diesel fuel use; 30 years of spillage performance monitoring in Western European oil pipelines. (101548)
CIS 03-735 Concawe Review 11:2. CONCAWE Review, Oct. 2002, Vol.11, No.2, p.1-21. Illus. (In English) Internet: Contents of this review of CONCAWE's activities: report on progress on key issues in which CONCAWE is currently involved; research on road transport and alternative fuels; aromatics in automotive fuel specifications; AIRNET, a network of researchers and organizations working towards the improvement of air quality in Europe; trends in refinery sulfur emission in Europe; report on the 6th CONCAWE pipeline seminar. (101549)
CIS 03-736 Concawe Review 12:1. CONCAWE Review, Apr. 2003, Vol.12, No.1, p.1-24. Illus. (In English) Internet: Topics covered in this review of CONCAWE's activities relate mainly to the limitation of CO2 emissions. Contents: the "well-to-wheels" study, aimed at establishing the energy and greenhouse-gas balances for a number of fuel and power train combinations; new technologies for sulfur-free fuels; emissions from modern gasoline-engine vehicles; update of the model of the European refining industry; establishing air quality limit values; oil in water analysis; exposure of asphalt workers to bitumen fumes; trends in the reduction of occupational exposure to gasoline vapours. (101550)
CIS 03-737 Indoor air quality and occupational exposures at a bus terminal. El-Fadel M., El-Hougeiri N., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, July 2003, Vol.18, No.7, p.513-522. Illus. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: Assessment of indoor air quality was inestigated at a bus terminal. For this purpose, field surveys were conducted, and air samples were collected and analysed for the presence of selected indoor air quality indicators. Mathematical modelling was performed to simulate bus emission rates, occupational exposure and ventilation requirements to maintain acceptable indoor air quality. A sensitivity analysis based on literature-derived emission rate estimates was conducted to evaluate the effect of seasonal temperature changes within the terminal. It was found that carbon monoxide and suspended particulate concentrations generally exceeded recommended levels. Modelling results showed that the natural ventilation rate should be at least doubled for acceptable indoor air quality. (101582)
CIS 03-738 Evaluation of a personal monitor employing an electrochemical sensor for assessing exposure to hydrogen peroxide in the workplace. Park J., Plese M.R., Puskar M.A., AIHA Journal, May-June 2003, Vol.64, No.3, p.360-367. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: The monitoring of vapour phase hydrogen peroxide (VHP) has gained increasing importance in the pharmaceutical industry because sterilization using VHP has proven to be a good alternative to previously used sterilizing methods. The current method based on bubbling air through an acid solution with subsequent laboratory analysis, is not practical for monitoring personal exposures. A commercially-available electrochemical sensor direct-reading instrument designed for personal monitoring of VHP was evaluated in the laboratory and under typical workplace. Time-weighted average concentration data from the direct-reading instrument was compared with concentration data from the existing analytical method. Selected performance characteristics of the instrument also were investigated, including reproducibility, response and recovery times, calibration frequency and suitability of the calibration adapter. Results suggest that the instrument provides a means for simple and accurate monitoring of personal exposures to VHP in workplace environments. (101589)
CIS 03-739 Occupational exposure to antineoplastic agents: Surveillance of the carcinogenic risk. (French: Exposition professionnelle aux antinéoplasiques: surveillance du risque cancérogène) Ortega Eslava M.I., Médecine du travail & Ergonomie / Arbeidsgezondheitszorg & Ergonomie, 2000, Vol.XXXVII, No.2, p.57-81. Illus. 156 ref. (In French) Internet: Antineoplastic agents used in cancer treatment are mutagenic, carcinogenic and teratogenic. This article presents the conclusions of a literature review aimed at analysing available test methods for the surveillance of the cancer risk among exposed workers. There is no single preferred test method, and the article discusses the advantages and scope of application of various methods including: determination of the parent compound or its metabolite in a biological media; DNA or protein adducts; urinary mutagenicity; biomarkers; chromosome aberration test; sister-chromatid exchange test, micronuclei test; comet assay. (101603)
CIS 03-740 Mutagenicity and teratogenicity studies during the handling of cytostatic drugs. (German: Studien zur Mutagenität und Teragenität beim Umgang mit Zytostatika) Jung D., Böttiger A., Ergo-Med, Nov.-Dec. 2002, Vol.26, No.6, p.162-166. Illus. 3 ref. (In German) Internet: Three studies involving hospital pharmacists were carried out in order to establish mutagenic and teratogenic hazards during the handling of cytostatic drugs. Sister chromatid exchanges, breaks in DNA strands, alkyl guanidine transferase levels and mitosis levels were evaluated. Under working conditions that include the most recent technologies (work in laminar flow safety cabinets), no significant differences were observed between exposed and non-exposed groups. (101679)
CIS 03-741 Arsenic and porphyrins. Apostoli P., Sarnico M., Bavazzano P., Bartoli D., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.42, No.3, p.180-187. Illus. 26 ref. (In English) Internet: To evaluate the possible effect of arsenic and of its compounds on the urinary excretion of porphyrin homologues, the following substances were determined in the urine of 86 art glass workers exposed to arsenic and its compounds and from 54 non-exposed controls: total porphyrins and their homologues (copro, penta, hexa, hepta, uroporphyrins) and the following arsenic species: trivalent and pentavalent arsenic, monomethyl arsonic acid, dimethyl arsinic acid and arsenobetaine. A significant increase in the excretion of penta and uroporphyrins was found for workers exposed to arsenic. The best correlation with urinary porphyrin excretion was found with trivalent arsenic. The increase of urinary excretion for some porphyrin homologues is consistent with the inhibition by arsenic of uro-decarboxylase in the haeme biosynthesis pathway. The determination of urinary porphyrin homologues could be useful to assess some early effects of arsenic exposure and to demonstrate possible individual susceptibility to the element. (101718)
CIS 03-742 Interference from calcite in the determination of silica. (Spanish: Interferencias producidas por la calcita en la determinación de sílice) Velasco Pérez B., Caracena Toribio R., Adellac Moreno A., Velasco Ortega J., Prevención, Jan.-Mar. 2003, No.163, p.50-61. Illus. 6 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article discusses the interference from calcite during the determination of free crystalline silica using infrared spectrophotometry. Indeed, calcite (CaCO3) may be present along with silica in certain ambient environments and can influence the results of the determination. The influence of calcite is determined on calcinated and uncalcinated mixtures of silica and calcite containing 20% silica, in increasing proportions of calcite (from 20% to 80%). It is concluded that calcite causes interferences in the determination of silica when its concentration in the sample exceeds 30%. (101789)
CIS 03-743 Health effects of occupational exposure to acrylamide using hemoglobin adducts as biomarkers of internal dose. Hagmar L., Törnqvist M., Nordander C., Rosén I., Bruze M., Kautiainen A., Magnusson A.L., Malmberg B., Aprea P., Granath F., Axmon A., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2001, Vol.27, No.4, p.219-226. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: A total of 210 workers at a tunnel construction site exposed for about two months to a chemical-grouting agent containing acrylamide and N-methylolacrylamide underwent a health examination. Blood samples were drawn for the analysis of haemoglobin (Hb) adducts of acrylamide. 50 workers claiming recently-developed or deteriorating symptoms of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) were referred to a neurophysiological examination. Workers with Hb-adduct levels exceeding 0.3nmol/g globin attended follow-up examinations 6, 12, and 18 months after exposure cessation. 47 workers had Hb-adduct levels within the normal background range (0.02-0.07nmol/g globin), while the remaining 163 had increased levels up to 17.7nmol/g globin. Clear-cut dose-response associations were found between the Hb-adduct levels and PNS symptoms. However, the PNS symptoms were generally mild and reversible in almost all cases. (101951)
CIS 03-744 Analysis of solvent vapors in breath and ambient air with a surface acoustic wave sensor array. Groves W.A., Zellers E.T., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Nov. 2001, Vol.45, No.8, p.609-623. Illus. 54 ref. (In English) Internet: The development of a small prototype instrument for the rapid analysis of organic solvent vapours in exhaled breath and ambient air is described, and the efficiency of the instrument is evaluated. It employs an array of four polymer-coated surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors. Calibrations were performed for breath and dry nitrogen samples spiked with 16 individual solvents and selected binary mixtures. In a subsequent analysis of an independent data set, all individual vapours and most binary mixture components were correctly identified and were quantified to within 25% of their actual concentrations. Limits of detection for a 0.25L sample collected over a 2.5min period were < 0.3 X TLV for 14 of the 16 vapours based on the criterion that all four sensors show a detectable response. Results demonstrate the feasibility of this technology for workplace analysis of breath and ambient air. (101977)
CIS 03-745 Benchmark guideline for urinary 1-hydroxypyrene as biomarker of occupational exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Jongeneelen F.J., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Jan. 2001, Vol.45, No.1, p.3-13. 70 ref. (In English) Internet: Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene has been proposed as an indicator of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). This article discusses a proposed three-level guideline for exposure evaluation. The first level is the 95th percentile in non-occupational exposed controls, namely 0.24µmol/mol and 0.76µmol/mol creatinine for non-smokers and smokers, respectively. Next, 1.4µmol/mol creatinine is the lowest reported level at which no genotoxic effects were found among exposed workers and is therefore proposed as the second level of the guideline. In two types of industry, coke ovens and primary aluminium production, airborne PAH concentrations and urinary 1-hydroxypyrene concentrations in exposed workers have been studied. The concentration of 1-hydroxypyrene in urine equal to the occupational exposure limit is 2.3µmol/mol creatinine and 4.9µmol/mol creatinine, respectively, in these two industries. These latter values present the third level of the guideline. (101981)
CIS 03-746 Mixed-effects models for the evaluation of long-term trends in exposure levels with an example from the nickel industry. Symanski E., Chan W., Chang C.C., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Jan. 2001, Vol.45, No.1, p.71-81. Illus. 45 ref. (In English) Internet: The purpose of this paper is to examine certain features of data from long-term studies and to present a general conceptual framework by which these features may be taken into account so that statistically valid inferences can be made. Statistical methods that rely on the application of mixed-effects models are proposed for evaluating long-term trends in exposure to workplace contaminants. The mixed-effects model presented herein has fixed effects for trend components and random effects for workers, job groups, buildings and manufacturing plants. It provides information about the magnitude of sources of variation associated with different groupings of workers. The mixed-effects model was applied to a large database of shift-long personal exposure measurements collected on workers exposed to nickel aerosols in the nickel-producing industry. (101985)
CIS 03-747 Dermal exposure assessment. Schneider T., Cherrie J.W., Vermeulen R., Kromhout H., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2000, Vol.44, No.7, p.493-499. Illus. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: A strategy for assessing dermal exposure based on a conceptual model is proposed, which draws on the experience gained for airborne contaminants, including the EN 689 standard for assessing exposure by inhalation. The large amount of air sampling data has provided good insight into the statistical properties of short-term and long-term exposure levels. For dermal exposure, an understanding of the distribution types and parameter values is beginning to emerge. Transport rates away from the skin contaminant layer determine the "memory" of a dermal sample and measurement principles are proposed depending on these rates. It is argued that uptake is the ultimate dermal exposure metric for risk assessment and should be the basis for devising dermal occupational exposure limits. (101986)
CIS 03-748 Hand wash and manual skin wipes. Brouwer D.H., Boeniger M.F., van Hemmen J., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2000, Vol.44, No.7, p.501-510. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: Hand wash and skin wipes are major techniques that have been used for dermal exposure sampling. This paper reviews known methods and techniques, with an emphasis on sampling parameters and sampling efficiency. It was found that identified sampling protocols, including sampling techniques, deviate at possible key issues, which hampers comparisons of study results. It is recommended to conduct sampling efficiency studies prior to field sampling, under conditions that are similar with respect to exposure process, levels of skin loading and time of residence of the compound on the skin. Harmonization of sampling protocols is a first step in creating a database for better understanding the influence of sampling parameters on the performance of removal techniques to assess dermal exposure. (101987)
CIS 03-749 Use of patches and whole body sampling for the assessment of dermal exposure. Soutar A., Semple S., Aitken R.J., Robertson A., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2000, Vol.44, No.7, p. 511-518. 37 ref. (In English) Internet: One of the problems associated with dermal sampling is that different methods often produce different results due to differences in the principles involved in sample collection. This paper details the principles underlying patch and whole body sampling and outlines some of the advantages and disadvantages of each. A conceptual model has recently been proposed for dermal exposure and the role that the various techniques may play in the application of this model is discussed. Finally, suggestions are made as to how these techniques may be made more relevant and areas of future research highlighted. (101988)
CIS 03-750 Use of qualitative and quantitative fluorescence techniques to assess dermal exposure. Cherrie J.W., Brouwer D.H., Roff M., Vermeulen R., Kromhout H., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2000, Vol.44, No.7, p.519-522. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: Fluorescent tracers provide a way of simultaneously assessing the mass of a hazardous substance on the surface of the skin of a worker and the area of skin exposed. These parameters, along with the duration of exposure and the estimated contaminant concentration in the skin contamination layer, can be used to calculate the likely uptake through the skin. Repeated assessment of the mass of tracer on a surface within a room or on the surface of the skin can also allow the net transfer of contaminant to be estimated. Qualitative evaluation of transfer processes using fluorescent tracers can help identify important secondary sources of exposure. (101989)
CIS 03-751 Suction methods for assessing contamination on surfaces. Byrne M.A., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2000, vol.44, n°7, p.523-528. 21 réf. (In English) Internet: This paper reviews the sampling techniques commonly employed for assessing contamination on surfaces and summarizes the range of sampling efficiencies reported in the literature. As there are many key factors influencing the recovery efficiency of suction sampling devices, it is recommended that controlled experiments are carried out to evaluate the relative significance of these factors, thus allowing inter-comparison of the data generated in field studies. As the range of applications of suction sampling devices is extensive, the harmonization of sampling protocols is not considered to be a feasible objective. (101990)
CIS 03-752 Asbestos related diseases from environmental exposure to crocidolite in Da-yao, China. I. Review of exposure and epidemiological data. Luo S., Liu X., Mu S., Tsai S.P., Wen C.P., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.60, No.1, p.35-42. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: Scattered patches of crocidolite were found in the surface soil in a rural county of south-western China. In 1983, it was discovered that residents of two villages in the county had hyperendemic pleural plaques and excessive numbers of pleural mesothelioma. This report is based on a review of several clinical and epidemiological studies conducted since 1984, which included a cross sectional medical examination, a clinical and pathological analysis of 46 cases of mesothelioma, and three retrospective cohort mortality studies. Additional information was acquired during interviews of medical specialists from the county hospital. The prevalence of pleural plaque was 20% among farmers over 40 years of age in the cross sectional survey. The average number of mesothelioma cases was 6.6 per year in the 1984-95 period and 22 per year in the 1996-99 period, in a population of 68,000. The annual mortality rate for mesothelioma was 85 per million, 178 per million, and 365 per million for the three cohort studies, respectively. (101513)
CIS 03-753 Periportal fibrosis and other liver ultrasonography findings in vinyl chloride workers. Maroni M., Mocci F., Visentin S., Preti G., Fanetti A.C., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.60, No.1, p.60-65. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: To investigate the presence of liver lesions and their relationship with vinyl chloride exposure, a liver ultrasonography examination was conducted in 757 workers involved in the production of vinyl chloride and PVC. The study involved an assessment of past and present vinyl chloride exposure of each worker, the collection of personal, lifestyle and health history data, routine liver function tests and liver ultrasonography. No cases of liver malignancies were detected. Angiomas and liver cysts were found with occurrence frequencies comparable to that of the general population. However, cases of hepatomegalia (34.7%), steatosis (31.8%) and periportal fibrosis (16.0%) were observed. Periportal fibrosis was shown to be associated with vinyl chloride exposure, but only when maximum exposure in the subject's history had been at least 200ppm as a yearly average; no effects were observed at 50ppm or below. (101516)
CIS 03-754 Visual and ocular changes associated with exposure to two tertiary amines. Page E.H., Cook C.K., Hater M.A., Mueller C.A., Grote A.A., Mortimer V.D., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.60, No.1, p.69-75. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: To determine if exposure to dimethylisopropanolamine (DMIPA) and dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) in a label-printing plant was associated with visual disturbances or ocular changes, questionnaire surveys, eye examinations (visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, slit lamp biomicroscopy and pachymetry) and measurements of workplace airborne concentrations of DMIPA and DMAE were performed over a two-week period. 89% of line (high-speed printing) workers reported having experienced blurry vision while at work in the past 12 months, compared to 12.5% of prime (lower-speed printing) workers. The mean time weighted average concentrations of DMIPA, DMAE and total amines were significantly higher in the line division than in the prime division. Higher levels of total amines were associated with increased risk of reporting blurry vision, halo vision, and blue-gray vision. The prevalence of corneal opacity increased with increasing duration of exposure to total amines and with increasing concentration of total amines. There was a statistically significant relation between total amine concentration and increased risk of reduced bilateral visual acuity and 2.5% contrast sensitivity. (101518)
CIS 03-755 A slow and silent death awaits a country ranking first in the world in exposure to silica. (Portuguese: Morte lenta e silenciosa ronda o país que está em primeiro no ranking mundial de expostos à sílica) Proteção, Sep. 2003, Vol.XVI, No.141, p.32-48. Illus. (In Portuguese) Internet: Brazil ranks first in the world with respect to occupational exposure to silica (5% of workers). This article provides an overview of the problem of silicosis in this country and presents the national programme for its elimination that the government has decided to implement. This programme could be managed by public occupational safety and health institutions in collaboration with international organizations such as the ILO and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). (101529)
CIS 03-756 Occupational asthma from colophony. (French: Asthme professionnel à la colophane) Rosenberg N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2003, No.94, p.195-200. 32 ref. (In French) Internet: Colophony is a natural resin extracted from certain coniferous trees. It is present in a wide variety of products, in particular in paper coatings, printed circuit board insulation, soldering flux, paints, lacquers and surface coatings. There have been many reports of asthma due to colophony. Contents of this feature article on occupational asthma due to colophony: list of the main products containing colophony and main sectors of use; physiopathology; diagnosis in occupational settings; confirmation of diagnosis in specialized institutions; evolution; prevention; compensation. (101565)
CIS 03-757 Occupational allergies. (French: Allergies professionnelles) De Schryver L., Van Cauwenberge P., Travail et bien-être, Sep.-Oct. 2002, Vol.5, No.4, p.25-30. Illus. 7 ref. (In French) Internet: Contents of this general overview of occupational allergies: description of the reactions of the human immune system; allergens at the workplace; occupations at risk; risk factors; definitions of allergy and atopy; rhinitis and asthma; diagnosis; prevention. (101568)
CIS 03-758 Occupational allergic contact dermatitis in a company manufacturing boards coated with isocyanate lacquer. Frick M., Isaksson M., Björkner B., Hindsén M., Pontén A., Bruze M., Contact Dermatitis, May 2003, Vol.48, No.5, p.255-260. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: Following the introduction of a lacquer based on diphenylmethane-4,4'-diisocyanate at a company producing flooring laminate boards, there was an outbreak of work-related skin lesions among workers. In five workers, patch testing was performed with a standard series, an isocyanate series and products present in the work environment. Among workers tested with the lacquer, contact allergy was found with concurrent reactions to 4,4'-diaminodiphenylmethane (MDA). Occupational contact with isocyanates should not be exclusively focused upon respiratory hazards, as this report shows that skin contamination probably increases the risk of developing contact allergy to isocyanates and isocyanate-related substances. When aiming at diagnosing contact allergy to isocyanates, it is desirable to perform a late reading, as positive reactions appear late. MDA appears to be a good marker for isocyanate hypersensitivity. (101581)
CIS 03-759 Renal cell cancer risk and occupational exposure to trichloroethylene: Results of a consecutive case-control study in Arnsberg, Germany. Brüning T., Pesch B., Wiesenhütter B., Rabstein S., Lammert M., Baumüller A., Bolt H.M., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.43, No.3, p.274-285. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: Findings of German studies on the relation between exposure to high levels of trichloroethylene (TRI) and renal cell cancer (RCC) are contradictory. A hospital-based case-control study with 134 RCC cases and 401 controls was conducted in order to re-evaluate the risk due to TRI in the German region of Arnsberg, which had been estimated in a previous study. Exposure was self-assessed to compare these studies. Job history was analysed using expert-based exposure information. The logistic regression results adjusted for age, sex and smoking confirmed a TRI- related RCC risk. Using the CAREX database for a comparison of industries with and without TRI exposure, a significant excess risk was estimated for the longest held job in TRI-exposing industries (odds ratio (OR) 1.80). The OR in metal degreasing activities was 5.57. Self-reported narcotic symptoms, indicative of peak exposures, were also associated with an excess risk (OR=3.71). The study supports the human nephro-carcinogenicity of trichloroethylene. (101705)
CIS 03-760 Pancreatic cancer mortality and organochlorine pesticide exposure in California, 1989-1996. Clary T., Ritz B., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.43, No.3, p.306-313. Illus. 29 ref. (In English) Internet: Earlier studies have suggested a possible link between organochlorine pesticides and the occurrence of pancreatic cancers. California maintains a death file and a pesticide reporting system that allows examination of this relationship in residents of high-use areas. Mortality odds ratios were used to compare deaths from pancreatic cancer from 1989 to 1996 with a random sample of non-cancer deaths. Using pesticide data for three agricultural counties, 102 postal codes were classified for pesticide usage from 1972 to 1989. The effect of pesticide applications were estimated by logistic regression for each postal code after controlling for possible confounders. Among long-term residents, pancreatic cancer mortality was elevated for those living in postal codes with the highest use of 1,3-dichloropropene, captafol, pentachloronitrobenzene and dieldrin. No dose-response relationship was observed. (101707)
CIS 03-761 Occupation, exposure to chemicals and risk of gliomas and meningiomas in Sweden. Navas-Acién A., Pollán M., Gustavsson P., Plato N., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.42, No.3, p.214-227. 58 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to estimate occupational-specific risk of glioma and meningioma, and in particular to study the influence of occupational exposure to certain chemical substances. The study population consisted of Swedish men and women employed in 1970 and followed-up over the period 1971-1989. Data from the Swedish national cancer register and from the 1970 census were used to obtain relative risks adjusted by age, period, geographical area and town size. Exposure to 13 chemicals was assessed using a Swedish job-exposure matrix. The main findings among men were the increased risk of glioma with occupational exposure to arsenic, mercury and petroleum products and of meningioma with lead. Women in occupational sectors with a higher socio-economic status showed an increased incidence of both glioma and meningioma. (101719)
CIS 03-762 Occupational rubber glove allergy: Results of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK), 1995-2001. Geier J., Lessmann H., Uter W., Schnuch A., Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 2003, Vol.48, No.1, p.39-44. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: Among the patients with occupational contact dermatitis registered in the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (known under the German acronym IDVK) during the years 1995-2001, 2047 were patch tested for suspected rubber glove allergy. Reaction frequencies to thiurams, dithiocarbamates, mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT) and its derivatives, thioureas, and 1,3-diphenylguanidine (1,3-DPG) were analysed. Thiurams were by far the most frequent allergens in these patients (16.2% positive reactions). Although manufacturers have increased the use of dithiocarbamates and MBT derivatives in rubber glove production in recent years, these allergens elicited positive reactions in only about 3% of the patients tested, and showed no increasing trend. Thioureas and 1,3-DPG are not widely used in rubber glove production, and play only a minor role in rubber glove contact allergy. Most of the positive reactions to 1,3-DPG are probably false-positive, irritant reactions. (101832)
CIS 03-763 Quantitative relations between exposure to respirable quartz and risk of silicosis. Buchanan D., Miller B.G., Soutar C.A., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.60, No.3, p.159-164. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to gain a more detailed knowledge of the relations between exposure to quartz and risks of silicosis in coal miners. Detailed data on working times at different quartz concentrations were combined to produce exposure profiles for 371 male miners aged 50-74 who had provided a chest radiograph. Results indicated that cumulative quartz exposure at higher concentrations resulted in proportionally greater risks of abnormalities. A cumulative exposure of 1g.h/m3 at quartz concentrations greater than 2mg/m3 was estimated to have equivalent risks to 3g.h/m3 at lower concentrations. Quantification of the risks of silicosis should take account of variations in quartz exposure intensity, particularly for exposure to concentrations of greater than 1 or 2mg/m3, even if exposure is for relatively short periods. The risks of silicosis over a working lifetime can rise dramatically with even brief exposure to such high quartz concentrations. (101859)
CIS 03-764 Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas and organic solvents. Vasconcelos Rêgo M.A., Campos Sousa C.S., Kato M., Barreto de Carvalho A., Loomis D., Martins Carvalho F., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.44, No.9, p.874-881. 79 ref. (In English) Internet: Organic solvents have been suggested as a possible risk factor for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). This article describes a study of 109 NHL incident cases and 276 controls with other cancers between 1990 and 1996 in the city of Salvador, Brazil. Occupational exposure to organic solvents was evaluated through standardized questionnaires, taking into account individuals' lifetime occupational history. An association between occupational exposure to organic solvents and NHL was observed (odds ratio OR=1.67), especially among individuals below the age of 64 (OR=1.91), and among those who used domestic insecticides (OR=2.24). Odds ratios were similar for nodal and diffuse NHL. (101929)
CIS 03-765 Using respirators and goggles to control exposure to air pollutants in an anatomy laboratory. Akbar-Khanzadeh F., Pulido E.V., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.43, No.3, p.326-331.19 ref. (In English) Internet: This study explored the feasibility of wearing one or a combination of respirators and goggles to control exposure to chemicals in laboratories of anatomy. A total of 28 subjects were trained in wearing protective equipment and asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their subjective reaction after having worn the assigned protective equipment while carrying out their normal work. The subjects' exposure to formaldehyde was also measured and it generally exceeded the recommended limits. When a full-face respirator or the combination of a half-mask respirator and goggles were worn, a majority of subjects reported no odour problem and no irritation to the eyes or the upper respiratory system. Subjects accepted the protective equipment to a certain degree, but those using respirators encountered difficulties communicating with others. The combination of a half-mask respirator and goggles was found to be the best combination to control exposure to air pollutants in a laboratory of anatomy. (101709)
CIS 03-766 Health surveillance of workers wearing respirators (1st part). (Spanish: La vigilancia de la salud en los usuarios de equipos de protección individual respiratoria (1a parte)) de la Iglesia Huerta A., Gómez Beltrán J., Ledesma Díaz M.J., Ledesma de Miguel J., Pacheco Reina L., Sáenz Aznares R., García Granados M.L., Dueñas Lopez M., Prevención, trabajo y salud, 2002, No.22, p.4-12. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: The objective of this article is to serve as a guide to the services responsible for the medical supervision of workers who use respirators, so as to ensure that they do not pose additional risks to their health. Contents: occupations and sectors of activity which may require the use of respirators; definitions (particulate filers, insulators, self-contained or semi-autonomous); classifications (groups 1 to 3); physiological consequences of using respirators (pulmonary, cardiovascular, metabolic, psychological, cutaneous, postural, ophthalmological and ear-nose-throat); diseases for which the use of respirators is not recommended (disorders of the endocrine system and lung, heart, neurological or musculoskeletal diseases); evaluation of the aptitude for wearing a respirator (anamnesis, physical examinations, specific tests). See also CIS 03-767. (101785)
CIS 03-767 Health surveillance of workers wearing respirators (2nd part). (Spanish: La vigilancia de la salud en los usuarios de equipos de protección individual respiratoria (2a parte)) de la Iglesia Huerta A., Gómez Beltrán J., Ledesma Díaz M.J., Ledesma de Miguel J., Pacheco Reina L., Sáenz Aznares R., García Granados M.L., Dueñas Lopez M., Prevención, trabajo y salud, 2003, No.23, p.16-28. Illus. 40 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article specifies the medical examinations that workers using respirators have to undergo, and completes the article analysed under CIS 03-766. It proposes three levels of examination for each respirator group (examinations prior to authorizing activities requiring the use of respirators, specific examinations according to the type of respirator, periodic examinations) and specifies the health problems that are counter-indicated to the wearing of respirators of a given group. Various practical aspects are also addressed, including: medical certificate of the aptitude to wear respirators; ergonometric tests (exercise tests protocols; calculation of energy expenditure); audiological function tests. (101786)
CIS 03-768 Pesticide use and pesticide-related symptoms among black farmers in the Agricultural Health Study. Martin S.A., Sandler D.P., Harlow S.D., Shore D.L., Rowland A.S., Alavanja M.C.R., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2002, Vol.41, No.3, p.202-209. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: This study describes agricultural practices and pesticide-related symptoms among North Carolina Afro-American and white farmers participating in the Agricultural Health Study. Self-administered questionnaires were completed by 891 Afro-American and 11,909 white farmers licensed to apply restricted pesticides. The data were subjected to analysis using regression models. Afro-American farmers reported lower lifetime pesticide use, less use of each class of pesticides (such as herbicides, insecticides), less use of high exposure application methods, and fewer pesticide-related symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, skin irritation, chest discomfort and feeling nervous or depressed than did white farmers. Differences between Afro-American and white farmers may also be explained by farm characteristics or economics. (101716)
CIS 03-769 Hazardous substances emergency events in the agriculture industry and related services in four mid-western states. Berkowitz Z., Orr M.F., Kaye W.E., Haugh G.S., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.44, No.8, p.714-723. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: Analysis of surveillance data reported from 14 states between 1993 and 1998 found that acute releases of hazardous substances are seasonal. This seasonality was more prevalent in four Midwestern states during April-June and coincided with their planting season, suggesting an association of these releases with the agricultural industry. A more detailed analysis found that ammonia was the chemical most frequently released, and ammonia-related events resulted in a significantly higher number of evacuations than all other events (Odds Ratio (OR) = 10.7). For incidents resulting in victims, a logistic regression model found an increased risk for events with ammonia during April-June (adjusted OR=3.57), events in fixed facilities during April-June (OR=3.74) and events with multiple substances (OR=2.33). The most common causes for the events were equipment failure and human error. Resulting injuries were mainly respiratory, ocular and traumatic, and included six deaths. (101837)
CIS 03-770 National health interview survey mortality among US farmers and pesticide applicators. Fleming L.E., Gómez-Marín O., Zheng D., Ma F., Lee D., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2003, Vol.43, No.2, p.227-233. 50 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study of the mortality of pesticide-exposed workers, Cox regression analyses were performed on mortality-linked 1986-1994 National Health Interview Survey data. 9471 farmers and pesticide applicators with 571 deaths were compared to 438,228 other US workers with 11,992 deaths. It was found that age-adjusted risk of accidental death, as well as cancers of the nervous and lymphatic/haematopoietic systems, were significantly elevated in male and female pesticide-exposed workers. However, these pesticide-exposed workers were not at an increased risk of all cancers, possibly due to exposure to estrogen analogue compounds. (101855)
CIS 03-771 Induction of ferritin and lipid peroxidation by coal samples with different prevalence of coal workers' pneumoconiosis: Role of iron in the coals. Zhang Q., Huang X., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.42, No.3, p.171-179. Illus. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: To establish whether differences in levels of bioavailable iron in coal may be responsible for the observed regional differences in the prevalence and severity of coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP), 29 coal samples from the coal mining regions of Utah (UT), West Virginia (WV) and Pennsylvania (PA) with CWP prevalences of 4, 10 and 26%, respectively, were found in vitro in human lung cells. Iron bound by chelating agents, ferritin and lipid peroxidation were found in increasing order of UT
CIS 03-772 A new approach to sampling for particle size and chemical species 'Fingerprinting' of workplace aerosols.
Kerr S.M., Vincent J.H., Ramachandran G., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2001, Vol.45, No.7, p.555-568. Illus. 28 ref. (In English)
Internet: This article describes a new instrument for aerosol sampling. A commercially-available, high-volume (28.3Lpm) Andersen-type cascade impactor was modified in order to extend its operational range further into the range of large inhalable particles for purposes of use in an exposure assessment study in the primary nickel production industry. The modification involved incorporating a 10ppi (pores per inch) porous plastic foam top stage that has a wide penetration curve with a 50dae-value of approximately 27µm. This enabled the upper end of the range of the instrument to be extended from about 10 to greater than 70µm. A mathematical inversion algorithm developed in earlier research was modified so that it could be applied to this new instrument. The new instrument was deployed in a pilot field study by to demonstrate the potential of the new instrument for generating useful information pertaining to health-relevant aerosol size tractions (e.g., inhalable, thoracic and respirable), and for soluble, sulfidic, metallic, oxidic and total nickel chemical species groups.
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CIS 03-773 Exposure to cyclic anhydrides in welding: A new allergen - chlorendic anhydride.
Pfäffli P., Hämeilä M., Keskinen H., Wirmoila R., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Nov. 2002, Vol.17, No.11, p.765-767. 13 ref. (In English)
Internet: To determine whether welding fumes contain irritating and sensitizing anhydrides, air samples were collected during the repair welding of forest harvesters, which were painted with chlorinated polyester paint. Samples were collected and analyzed using GC-MS and GC-ECD. Sensitizing anhydrides released from the paint into the air were primarily chlorendic anhydride (<2-44µg/m3) and phthalic anhydride (11-21µg/m3). Hydrogen chloride (HCl) and hexachlorocyclopentadiene were also found. Airborne HCl was measured with Dräger tubes. Since paint films are electrical insulators, the film around the welding seam was removed before arc welding. Removal of paint with an abrasive wheel caused the least exposure to HCl (<0.5ppm) in contrast to burning with a gas fuel torch, (HCl=ca. 5ppm). HCl exposure was the highest (<0.5-20ppm) during welding. It is recommended that dry paint coating be removed from an area around the seam with an abrasive wheel, not by burning, before welding.
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CIS 03-774 Occupational dermatoses in a metalworking plant.
Gruvberger B., Isaksson M., Frick M., Pontén A.N.N., Bruze M., Contact Dermatitis, Feb. 2003, Vol.48, No.2, p.80-86. 17 ref. (In English)
Internet: Among workers of a plant producing components for engines and drivelines, a survey of occupational dermatoses was conducted using questionnaires, clinical examinations and patch testing with standard series and a series of samples from the working environment. The questionnaire was given to all employees, of whom 382 responded. A total of 214 reported having had or having suspected work-related skin manifestations. Of the workers, 183 (164 metal workers, 19 office staff) participated in the clinical investigation and skin tests. Occupational dermatoses were diagnosed in 23 metal workers (14.1%) and one office worker (5.3%). Irritant contact dermatitis was diagnosed in 12 metal workers, occupational allergic contact dermatitis in 11 (10 metal workers and 1 office clerk) and folliculitis in one metal worker. Among the 11 workers, four cases were due to neat oils, three were due to a water-based cutting and four were due to various biocides.
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CIS 03-775 Lead exposure in Mexican radiator repair workers.
Dykeman R., Aguilar-Madrid G., Smith T., Juárez-Pérez C.A., Piacitelli G.M., Hu H., Hernandez-Avila M., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2002, Vol.41, No.3, p.179-187. Illus. 23 ref. (In English)
Internet: Lead exposure was investigated among 73 Mexican radiator repair workers employed in 31 repair shops, 12 members of their families (four children and eight wives) and 36 unexposed working controls. Exposure was assessed directly through the use of personal air sampling and hand wipe analyses. In addition, industrial hygiene inspections were performed, detailed questionnaires were administered and blood lead levels were measured. The mean values for blood lead of the radiator repair workers was 35.5µg/dL, compared to 13.6µg/dL for controls. Air lead levels ranged from 0 to 99µg/m3 with a mean value of 19µg/m3. The strongest predictors of elevated blood lead levels were smoking, the number of radiators repaired per day and the use of a uniform while at work, which were associated with blood lead elevations of 11.4µg/dL, 1.95µg/dL/radiator/day, and 16.4µg/dL, respectively. Uniforms were not laundered regularly and consequently served as reservoirs of contamination on which workers frequently wiped their hands.
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CIS 03-776 Silica dust exposure during selected construction activities.
Flanagan M.E., Seixas N., Majar M., Camp J., Morgan M., AIHA Journal, May-June 2003, Vol.64, No.3, p.319-328. Illus. 30 ref. (In English)
Internet: This study characterized quartz and respirable dust exposure by collecting personal samples during the following construction tasks: cleanup; demolition with handheld tools; concrete cutting; concrete mixing; tuck-point grinding; surface grinding; sacking and patching concrete; and concrete floor sanding. The geometric mean (GM) quartz concentration was 0.10mg/m3 for all samples, with 71% exceeding the threshold limit value. Activities with the highest exposures were surface grinding, tuck-point grinding and concrete demolition (GM of 0.63, 0.22 and 0.10, respectively). Factors important to exposure were recorded each minute, and included tool used, work area configuration, controls employed, cross draft and nearby dust. Respiratory protection was found to be inadequate for 42% of the exposures. The effectiveness of technical control measures including box fans, vacuum shrouds and wetted substrates are discussed.
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CIS 03-777 Determinants of dust exposure in tunnel construction work.
Bakke B., Stewart P., Wijnand E., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Nov. 2002, Vol.17, No.11, p.783-796. 14 ref. (In English)
Internet: The aim of this study was to measure dust exposure in tunnel construction work and to propose control measures. Personal exposures to total dust, respirable dust, and α-quartz were measured among 209 construction workers divided into eight groups according to the tasks performed. The mean values of exposure to total dust, respirable dust, and α-quartz for all tunnel workers were 3.5mg/m3, 1.2mg/m3 and 0.035mg/m3, respectively. 15% of the total dust measurements, 5% of the respirable dust and 21% of the α-quartz exceeded the Norwegian occupational exposure limits. Job groups with the highest exposure to total dust were shotcreting operators (6.8mg/m3), tunnel boring machine workers (6.2m3) and shaft drilling workers (6.1m3). The use of ventilated, closed cabs appeared to be the single most important control measure for lowering exposures.
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CIS 03-778 Airflow balance of asbestos sites. (French: Le bilan aéraulique des chantiers d'amiante)
Danet J.P., Dubernet F., Magniez G., Aussel H., Rolin A., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2000, No.181, p.17-40. Illus. 4 ref. (In French)
Internet: Contractors qualified in the removal or confinement of friable asbestos must ensure the protection of employees and the environment, in particular by systems to clean the air and maintain a negative pressure in the working zone. The airflow technique allows firms to adopt a rigorous step-by-step approach. It ensures the control of risk by predicting equipment requirements in advance and limiting improvisation on site. Finally, measurements carried out on site allow validation of the assumptions made and feedback on experience, which is a factor of progress in the prevention of occupational risks on asbestos removal sites.
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CIS 03-779 Occupational exposure to bitumen during road paving.
Heikkilä P., Riala R., Hämeilä M., Nykyri E., Pfäffli P., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Mar.-Apr. 2002, Vol.63, No.2, p.156-165. Illus. 53 ref. (In English)
Internet: The exposure of workers to total particulates, bitumen fumes, semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), low-molecular-weight amines, styrene, and 1,3-butadiene was studied at 13 road paving sites where 11 different asphalt mixtures were laid. 1-hydroxypyrene was analysed in the workers' pre- and post-shift urine samples. Mean concentrations of total particulates, bitumen fumes, SVOCs, and PAHs in the breathing zone of road pavers were 0.6mg/m3, 0.29mg/m3, 5.6 mg/m3, and 5.03µg/m3, respectively. Over 90% of air impurities were in the vapour phase. Exposure to PAHs during road paving operations was more than 10-fold higher than was the exposure of a traffic controller (0.34µg/m3) caused by automobile exhausts from background traffic. Concentrations of amines, impurities from polymer-modified bitumens, styrene, and 1,3-butadiene were below detection limits. Urinary 1- hydroxypyrene concentrations were higher among road pavers than among office workers serving as referents.
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CIS 03-780 Exposure to wood dust and heavy metals in workers using CCA pressure-treated wood.
Decker P., Cohen B., Butala J.H., Gordon T., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Mar.-Apr. 2002, Vol.63, No.2, p.166-171. 24 ref. (In English)
Internet: Wood used for construction applications is often treated with chromium, copper and arsenic (CCA). This study examined the airborne concentration and particle size distribution of wood particles, chromium, copper and arsenic at outdoor and indoor construction work. At the outdoor sites, mean total dust concentration, measured using personal filter cassette samplers, was 0.57mg/m3. Indoor wood dust concentrations were significantly greater than those measured outdoors and were job category-dependent. The highest mean breathing zone dust concentration, 49mg/m3, was measured at the indoor sanding operation. Personal impactor sampling demonstrated that the mean total airborne concentration of arsenic, but not chromium or copper, was consistently above recommended occupational exposure levels at the indoor work site, and occasionally at the outdoor work sites. At the indoor sanding operation, the mean total chromium, copper, and arsenic concentrations were 345, 170 and 342µg/m3, respectively. Therefore, current standards for wood dust may not adequately protect workers from the heavy metals present in CCA pressure-treated wood.
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CIS 03-781 Effects of blasting fumes on exposure and short-term lung function changes in tunnel construction workers.
Bakke B., Ulvestad B., Stewart P., Lund M.B., Eduard W., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2001, Vol.27, No.4, p.250-257. Illus. 38 ref. (In )
Internet: This study attempts to determine the effects of exposure to blasting fumes and its influence on the lung function of tunnel workers. Two groups of workers, one using ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO) as the explosive and the other using a sensitized emulsion (SE), with 24 workers per group, were compared with a reference group of 34 unexposed workers. Spirometry was used to determine lung function. Personal exposure to total and respirable dust, alpha-quartz, volatile organic compounds, oil mist and vapors, formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide was measured. Tunnel workers using ANFO explosive show a temporary reduction in lung function, whereas those using SE do not. Peak exposure to nitrogen dioxide is the most likely explanation for the observed changes.
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CIS 03-782 Determinants of exposure to respirable quartz dust in the construction industry.
Lumens M.E.G.L., Spee T., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2001, Vol.45, No.7, p.585-595. Illus. 23 ref (In English)
Internet: The level of exposure to respirable quartz was measured for some highly exposed groups of employees. Personal air sampling measurements of respirable dust and quartz were performed at 30 construction sites and 171 samples were collected. Both respirable dust and quartz levels were high. Respirable quartz exposures of more than ten times the Dutch limit value of 0.075mg/m3 TWA were common, but exposures up to 200 times the Dutch limit value were also found. The contribution of the different determinants to the total exposure was identified by statistical analysis. With this approach, directions for an effective control measures programme can be proposed.
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CIS 03-783 Prevention of carbon monoxide exposure in general and recreational aviation.
Zelnick S.D., Lischak M.W., Young D.G., Massa T.V., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.73, No.8, p.812-816. 32 ref. (In English)
Internet: Carbon monoxide (CO) exposure poses a significant, although uncommon risk in aviation. Exposure is most common in single engine piston-driven aircraft where air is passed over the exhaust manifold to serve as cabin heat. Effective primary prevention of this exposure is the regular inspection and maintenance of aircraft exhaust systems, as required by law. For situations at special risk should exposure occur, and where there is concern for the public safety, installation of active warning devices for CO intrusion into cabins may constitute secondary prevention. However, further studies need to be performed to support FAA standards for pilot exposure to CO, for use in monitors alerting pilots to the possibility of exhaust gas intrusion into aircraft cabins.
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CIS 03-784 The development of substitute inks and controls for reducing workplace concentrations of organic solvent vapors in a vinyl shower curtain printing plant.
Piltingsrud H.V., Zimmer A.T., Rourke A.B., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Aug. 2003, Vol.18, No.8, p.597-619. Illus. 16 ref. (In English)
Internet: In order to comply with US regulations with respect to the discharge of volatile organic compounds, a PVC shower curtain printing company had installed a catalytic oxidizer. However, the low flow rates of the equipment resulted in high solvent concentrations within the workplace environment, causing worker discomfort. On investigation, solvent vapour concentrations were found to exceed NIOSH, OSHA and ACGIH acceptable exposure levels. The workers were required to wear organic vapour removing respirators full-time while printing. The company requested NIOSH assistance in finding methods to reduce solvent vapour concentrations. NIOSH recommendations included technical controls for the emissions and the use of substitute inks. The new ink system and controls allowed the removal of the requirement for the treatment of discharged air, and the substantial increases in dilution ventilation thus achievable reduced worker exposures and waived the requirements for respirator usage.
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CIS 03-785 Airborne allergic contact dermatitis from 3-iodo-2-propynyl-butylcarbamate at a paint factory.
Devantier Jensen C., Thormann J., Ejner Andersen K., Contact Dermatitis, Mar. 2003, Vol.48, No.3, p.155-157. 19 ref. (In English)
Internet: The fungicide 3-iodo-2-propynyl-butylcarbamate (IPBC) is used in both industrial products and cosmetics. This article presents the first reported case of allergic contact dermatitis from airborne exposure to this preserving agent. A 34-year-old female production worker at a paint factory developed dermatitis on exposed skin areas. Patch testing showed a positive reaction to IPBC 0.01% in petrolatum. The compound was used as a preservative in wood treatment products manufactured at her workplace. Based on animal studies, IPBC is considered safe as a cosmetic preservative. However, widespread use of the chemical might lead to increasing levels of contact allergy, and therefore, close monitoring of IPBC is recommended.
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CIS 03-786 Personal sampling for inhalable aerosol exposures of carbon black manufacturing industry workers.
Kerr S.M., Muranko H.J., Vincent J.H., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Oct. 2002, Vol.17, No.10, p.681-692. Illus. 31 ref. (In English)
Internet: The objectives of this study were to determine the extent of the exposure to inhalable aerosols compared to total aerosols in the carbon black production industry and to evaluate different types of inhalable aerosol samplers for carbon black aerosol measurement. It was found that inhalable aerosol exposures for workers in carbon black production and packing areas were almost three times higher than the corresponding total aerosol exposures measured by conventional sampling techniques, implying the presence of significantly coarser aerosols than previously thought based simply on knowledge of the carbon black production process. The fact that the aerosols collected in different stages of the process comprised high proportions of particulate composed of other substances than elemental carbon was thought to be responsible. The GSP sampler emerged as a good alternative to the IOM sampler for collecting inhalable aerosols in the carbon black industry.
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CIS 03-787 Heterogeneity in sources of exposure variability among groups of workers exposed to inorganic mercury.
Symanski E., Sällsten G., Chan W., Barregård L., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Nov. 2001, Vol.45, No.8, p.677-687. 37 ref. (In English)
Internet: Given the utility of different modelling approaches when assessing exposures, assumptions of homogeneity of variance within and between workers using both random- and mixed-effects models were investigated. In this study of four groups of workers exposed to inorganic mercury (Hg) at a chloralkali plant, there was no evidence of significant heterogeneity in the levels of variation over time or between workers for air Hg levels. For the biological monitoring data, however, the findings indicate that groups did not share common levels of variability and that it was not appropriate to pool the data and obtain single estimates of the within- and between-worker variance components. Classification of job group as a random or fixed effect had no effect on the results. Although the probability that workers' mean exposures exceeded occupational exposure limits for air, urine and blood Hg was generally low (<10%) for all groups except maintenance workers, the estimated values sometimes varied depending upon the particular model that was applied. Given the growing use of random- and mixed-effects models that combine data across occupational groups, additional studies are warranted to evaluate whether it is reasonable to assume common variances and covariances among measurements collected on workers from different groups.
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CIS 03-788 Reactive dyes in textile dyeing and finishing: Allergic diseases resulting from their use. (French: Colorants réactifs dans le secteur de l'ennoblissement textile: pathologies allergiques liées à leur utilisation)
Pillière F., Galey J.F., Maison A., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2001, No.85, p.33-47. Illus. 22 ref. (In French)
Internet: Workers in the dyeing and finishing sector of the textile industry are exposed to dyestuffs. Among these, reactive dyes which are characterized by the presence of one or several reactive groups on the molecule have experienced rapid growth. Despite the large number of reactive dyestuffs that are labelled as being potential skin sensitizers, there are few recent publications on the potential for allergic diseases resulting from occupational exposure to these products. Furthermore, only few cases of occupational allergy caused by these substances been reported in France. Carried out by occupational physicians responsible for the medical supervision of employees in the dyeing and finishing sector, this questionnaire survey was carried out with a view to better understand the frequency of these allergies.
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CIS 03-789 Respiratory risks of wood production processes. (Spanish: Riesgos respiratorios en los procesos productivos de la madera)
León M.C., Protección y seguridad, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.45, No.268, p.24-29. Illus. 5 ref. (In Spanish)
Internet: Respiratory risks due to various wood production processes are listed. Exposure to wood dust is associated with sinusitis, asthma, infectious respiratory diseases and irritation of the respiratory tract leading to rhinitis and chronic bronchitis. Exposure to wood impregnation or treatment products (ammonia, phenolic resins, organic solvents and fungicides) induces a series of disorders. The importance of wearing protective gloves and clothes as well as respirators is emphasized.
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CIS 03-790 Variations in exposure to inhalable wood dust in the Danish furniture industry. Within- and between-worker and factory components estimated from passive dust sampling.
Vinzents P.S., Schlünssen V., Feveile H., Schaumburg I., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2001, Vol.45, No.7, p.603-608. 15 ref (In English)
Internet: Variability of exposure to wood dust at large factories in the Danish furniture industry was studied. Three repeated exposure measurements of 292 workers at 38 factories were included in the study. The measurements were carried out by use of personal passive dust monitors. The components of variance were estimated by means of a random effects ANOVA model. The ratio of within- to between-worker variance was 1.07. Based on this result and three repeated exposure measurements, the observed relation between health outcome and exposure is attenuated to 74% of the true value. Grouping by factory showed very poor exposure contrast, as the contrast in exposure level among factories was as low as 0.15. This indicates that parameters affecting exposure are independent of the specific factories in the furniture industry
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CIS 03-791 Airborne polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and cellulose fibre levels in fibre-cement factories in seven European countries.
De Raeve H., Van Cleemput J., Nemery B., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Nov. 2001, Vol.45, No.8, p.625-630. Illus. 27 ref. (In English)
Internet: In order to investigate the tendency of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibres to release airborne particles with critical fibrous dimensions (WHO fibres), static and/or personal samples were taken in eight fibre-cement factories at locations where potential exposures to PVA fibres were expected to be the highest. At each factory, a control sample was taken in open air. Sampling, sample preparation and sample analysis by scanning electron microscopy were performed according to standard German procedures. Only very low concentrations of organic WHO fibres, ranging from below the detection limit to 0.006f/mL, were found. These levels are lower than the typical levels of organic fibres commonly found in the normal personal environment (0.009-0.02f/mL), stemming from the release of particles by a person's activities and from clothing and other household textiles. The handling of PVA fibres as well as the machining of PVA and cellulose fibre containing cement products in the fibre-cement factories surveyed have a low potential to release fibres with critical fibrous (WHO) dimensions.
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CIS 03-792 Implementing safety rules for working with ethidium bromide in laboratories. (Dutch: Implementatie van veiligheidsvoorschriften bij het gebruik van ethidiumbromide in laboratoria)
Beyst H., de Pauw P., de Thibault de Boesinghe L., Min Jou W., Segers P., Médecine du travail & Ergonomie / Arbeidsgezondheitszorg & Ergonomie, 2000, Vol.XXXVII, No.1, p.31-37. Illus. 4 ref. (In Dutch)
Internet: Ethidium bromide (EtBr) is a strong mutagenic agent, frequently used in molecular biology. A number of measurements and laboratory visits led to the conclusion that the complex ways in which this substance is handled poses various safety and health problems. To detect EtBr, the use of an UV hand lamp is necessary. Detection depends on a minimal concentration of EtBr (approximately 1µg/mL) and the nature of the materials contaminated by EtBr. Taking these measurements, experiences and interviews with laboratory personnel into account, various prevention measures are proposed, together with labelling and safety rules.
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CIS 03-793 Exposure of swimming-pool lifeguards to chlorinated compounds. (French: Exposition des maîtres nageurs aux dérivés chlorés)
Badinier-Paganon I., Deschamps F., Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Oct. 2001, Vol.62, No.6, p.477-481. 16 ref. (In French)
Internet: Disinfection of swimming pool water is carried out using chlorinated agents that react with nitrogen-containing human residues. This results in the formation of chloramines, which include nitrogen trichloride (chloramine-T). These compounds may be responsible for chronic symptoms such as eye, rhinopharyngeal and bronchial irritations with a dose-effect relationship. However, cases of chronic bronchitis or asthma are not frequent. Chloramine-T solutions used in the disinfection of walls, floors and sanitary facilities may induce sensitizations confirmed with specific IgE detection. Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome may occur with massive accidental exposure to chlorinated compounds. Primary prevention consists in gas extraction systems to maintain atmospheric concentrations of chlorinated agents at acceptable levels.
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CIS 03-794 Exposure to carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide in enclosed ice arenas.
Pelham T.W., Holt L.E., Moss M.A., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2002, Vol.59, No.4, p.224-233. 72 ref. (In English)
Internet: This literature review summarizes the latest information on the cardiorespiratory effects of exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in enclosed ice rinks. Sources of CO and NO2 emissions are identified. Current standards for these agents, as well as methods of controlling the emissions, dispersion, and evacuation are presented. Findings indicate that air pollutants such as CO and NO2 which are present in enclosed skating facilities may exacerbate possible pre-existing pathogenic conditions among persons who spend considerable time in these environments. Considering the popularity of ice hockey, speed skating and figure skating, and the hundreds of hours that a sensitive person may spend each year in these environments, it is important to conduct further research in this area. From the findings and conclusions of the research reviewed in this paper, ten recommendations are made.
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CIS 03-795 Level of silica in the respirable dust inhaled by dental technicians with demonstration of respirable symptoms.
Kim T.S., Kim H.A., Heo Y., Park Y., Park C.Y., Roh Y.M., Industrial Health, July 2002, Vol.40, No.3, p.260-265. Illus. 35 ref. (In English)
Internet: Dental technicians are exposed to various dusts. This study was conducted to measure level of silica in the respirable dust generated from dental prosthodontics manufacturing and to compare the occurrence of respiratory symptoms among dental technicians with that of non-dental hospital workers (control group). 50 personal samples from dental technicians were obtained during porcelain or polishing process. The mean concentration of respirable dust was 651µg/m3 during the porcelain process, with a highest concentration of 2874µg/m3, and of and 725µg/m3 during the polishing process, with a highest concentration of 1764µg/m3. The silica contents of the dusts were 0.81% and 1.66% for the porcelain and polishing processes, respectively. The frequency of respiratory symptoms, including wheezing and rhinorrhoea, was significantly higher in the dental technicians than in the controls.
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CIS 03-796 Source term modelling of releases within building complexes.
Scaperdas A., Hebden C.R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. viii, 55p. Illus. 51 ref. Price: GBP 25.00., ISBN 0-7176-2354-8 (In English)
Internet: This study relates to the dispersion of dense gases within and downstream of building complexes. A review of earlier work on the topic was undertaken, enabling the significant effects and key parameters to be identified. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling was then undertaken for a typical chlorine release within arrays of varying geometry. The results obtained from CFD were used for the development of a series of flow charts to guide the selection of appropriate modelling choices when conducting risk analysis.
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CIS 03-797 NIOSH hazard review - Health effects of occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica.
Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Apr. 2002. xviii, 127p. Illus. Approx. 500 ref. (In English)
Internet: This review summarizes the adverse health effects of worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica; properties, production, potential and sampling methods; health effects (silicosis, tuberculosis, lung cancer, other cancers and nonmalignant respiratory diseases; autoimmune and chronic renal diseases); review of experimental studies; exposure limits, monitoring and control; research needs.
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CIS 03-798 Pollution control on work premises. (Polish: Ograniczanie emisji zanieczyszczeń w pomieszczeniach pracy)
Gliński M., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 71p. Illus. 30 ref., ISBN 83-88703-52-8 (In Polish)
Internet: This publication describes the various types of ventilation and dust-removal systems. It is aimed at helping to select means of controlling internal air pollution in the work environment.
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CIS 03-799 Nickel and you.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Feb. 2002. 6p. 1 ref. (In English)
Internet: Contents on this leaflet on the hazards from exposure to nickel aimed at employees: what is nickel, and products and processes where it is found; modes of exposure; health hazards; responsibilities of employees; responsibilities of employers, particularly under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 1999 (see CIS 00-620); health surveillance; information of personnel.
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CIS 03-800 Benzene and you.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, Dec. 2001. 6p. 3 ref. (In English)
Internet: Contents on this leaflet on the hazards from exposure to benzene aimed at employees: what is benzene, and products and processes where it is found; modes of exposure; health hazards; preventive measures; responsibilities of employers, particularly under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 1999 (see CIS 00-620); responsibilities of employees; information of personnel. Replaces CIS 98-247.
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CIS 03-801 Interferences on battery-powered electrochemical detectors. (French: Les interférences sur les détecteurs à piles électrochimiques)
Austin C.C., Roberge B., Arbarétaz J., Goyer N., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 3C2, Canada, Jan. 2003. 37p. Illus. 17 ref. CD-ROM containing the PDF version of the document is included (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)., ISBN 2-551-21706-7 (In French)
Internet: Battery-powered electrochemical detectors are used for determining the concentrations of various gases in air, in particular those of carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide. However, the presence of other substances may cause interference, and manufacturers generally provide a limited list of known cross-sensitization. Users continue to report unexpected interferences caused by other substances, in particular by solvents. The objective of this study was to quantify non-documented effects on the readings of detection systems. Several widely-used models of detectors were exposed in an experimental chamber to substances likely to interfere with the reading for a maximum of 120min. The results are expressed in the form of plots showing the response as a function of time. Evaluating the exposure of workers to gases in the presence of substances that may alter the reading therefore requires selecting the least sensitive instrument and recording the result after a suitable time lag.
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CIS 03-802 Report of a Ministerial Enquiry into the Management of Certain Hazardous Substances in Workplaces [New Zealand].
Clifford D., Internet copy, Wellington, New Zealand, July 2003. v+87p. 47 ref. (In English)
Internet: Report of a government enquiry into the current management of hazardous substances in New Zealand workplaces. The focus of the inquiry was into the use of glutaraldehyde in the health sector, but other substances and occupational settings were also considered. Contents: introduction to hazardous substances, including their characteristics and their use in industry; the legislative framework governing safety and health issues in relationship with hazardous substances; issues of causation relating to the nature and extent of adverse health consequences arising from exposure to hazardous substances; best practices; management of hazardous substances and adoption of best practices; relationship among various parties in connection with the manufacture, storage, transportation, use and disposal of hazardous substances; lessons learned, recommendations and priorities. In annex: terms of reference; list of submissions and of participants in the enquiry.
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CIS 03-803 Dangerous nitroso amines. (Polish: Niebezpieczne nitrozoaminy)
Domański W., Makles Z., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy - Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 199p. Illus. 253 ref., ISBN 83-7373-055-9 (In Polish)
Internet: Nitroso amines are physiologically active harmful chemical agents with potential mutagenic, carcinogenic and toxic properties. This monograph describes the structure, reactions, functions, chemical reactivity, biological activity and health effects of nitroso amines, as well as methods for their neutralization. It also describes sampling and analysis methods in the work environment, particularly in the rubber and food industries.
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CIS 03-804 Chemical hazards in selected technological processes - Part 2. (Polish: Zagrożenia chemiczne w wybranych procesach technologicznych - Część 2)
Pośniak M., ed., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 101p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 83-88703-48-X (In Polish)
Internet: This publication is aimed at persons responsible for assessing occupational exposure to harmful substances involved in the manufacture of phenol-formaldehyde resins, and metals and metal compounds, as well as to asphalt fumes and diesel exhaust. For each substance or process, it discusses sources of chemical hazards, health effects, sampling and analysis methods in the work environment, methods of hazard control and methods of neutralizing the harmful substances. See also CIS 03-817, which covers several other industrial processes.
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CIS 03-805 Recommended analytical methods for the determination of harmful substances in workplace air - Documentation. (German: Empfohlene Analysenverfahren für Arbeitsplatzmessungen - Dokumentation)
Auffarth J., Hebisch R., Poppek U., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, eds., Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 17th ed., 1999. 330p. Indexes. Price (2003 ed.): EUR 26.50., ISBN 3-89701-392-4 (In German)
Internet: Alphabetic list of 676 harmful substances, with brief indications of measurement methods (sampling, preparation, analysis), analytical limits, threshold limit values and bibliographic references. In addition to the methods approved by Mutual Accident Insurance Associations (Berufsgenossenschaften) and the German Research Association (DFG), methods recommended by NIOSH, the Health and Safety Executive, OSHA, the German Society for Petroleum and Coal Science and Technology (DGMK) and the German BIA Institute are also covered. One chapter is devoted to direct display analytical equipment. Indexes by chemical name and CAS number.
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CIS 03-806 Analysis of dangerous substances. (German: Gefahrstoff-Analytik)
Ecomed Verlagsgesellschaft AG & Co. KG, Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 3, 86899 Landsberg/Lech, Germany, 59. Ergänzungslieferung, Aug. 2002. 270p. Bibl.ref., ISBN 3-609-19409-X (In German)
Internet: Update to the loose-leaf collection of methods for monitoring compliance with exposure limits and anti-pollution laws, and for the analysis of process gases (CIS 90-955). Contents: update of directive 67/548/EEC on the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances and of directive 91/155/EEC on safety data sheets; update of four ordinances implementing the Federal Law on the control of atmospheric pollution (BImSchV); overhaul of the technical rules (TRGS) on safety data sheets (220); update of the following technical rules (TRGS): identification and evaluation of hazards due to dangerous substances at the workplace (420), list of maximum permissible concentrations at the place of work (900), biological limit values at the workplace (903) and list of carcinogens, mutagens and substances having reproductive toxicity (905); introduction of COM/2002/0118, a new community on health and safety and health at work 2002-2006.
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CIS 03-807 Analysis of dangerous substances. (German: Gefahrstoff-Analytik)
Ecomed Verlagsgesellschaft AG & Co. KG, Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 3, 86899 Landsberg/Lech, Germany, 60. Ergänzungslieferung, Nov. 2002. 276p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 3-609-19410-3 (In German)
Internet: Update to the loose-leaf collection of methods for monitoring compliance with exposure limits and anti-pollution laws, and for the analysis of process gases (CIS 90-955). Contents: overhaul of the law on chemical substances; new technical instruction (TA) on air protection; introduction of Directive 1999/45/EC on the classification, labelling and packaging of dangerous preparations.
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CIS 03-808 Analysis of dangerous substances. (German: Gefahrstoff-Analytik)
Ecomed Verlagsgesellschaft AG & Co. KG, Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 3, 86899 Landsberg/Lech, Germany, 61. Ergänzungslieferung, Feb. 2003. 224p. Bibl.ref., ISBN 3-609-19411-1 (In German)
Internet: Update to the loose-leaf collection of methods for monitoring compliance with exposure limits and anti-pollution laws, and for the analysis of process gases (CIS 90-955). Contents: updates of the ordinance on the prohibition of chemical substances and the ordinance on dangerous substances; overhaul of the following technical rules (TRGS): classification and labelling of substances, preparations and dangerous products (200); fumigation (512) and list of sensitizing agents (907); update of the following technical rules (TRGS): determination of dangerous substances and analytical methods for substitution products (440), list of maximum permissible concentrations at the place of work (900), biological limit values at the workplace (903) and list of carcinogens, mutagens and substances having reproductive toxicity (905).
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CIS 03-809 Guidance on the evaluation of chemical hazards during the processing of phenol-formaldehyde resins and on their minimization. (Polish: Wytyczne do oceny narażenia na szkodliwe substancje chemiczne wydzielające się w procesie przetwórstwa żywic fenolowo- formaldehydowych i ograniczania związanego z nimi ryzyka zawodowego)
Pośniak M., Kozieł E., Jeżewska A., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 50p. 31 ref., ISBN 83-88703-81-1 (In Polish)
Internet: Contents of this booklet on exposure to harmful chemicals during the processing of phenol-formaldehyde resins: general characteristics of phenol-formaldehyde resins; emissions of toxic and harmful substances during their processing; exposure and hazard evaluation.
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CIS 03-810 Development of a method to assess biologically relevant dermal exposure.
Lindsay F., Cherry J.W., Robertson A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. vi, 51p. Illus. 21 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2223-1 (In English)
Internet: Dermal exposure is evaluated using dermal samplers that consist of patches that simulate human skin and that collect volatile liquids by diffusion. This study investigates the feasibility of developing a dermal sampler for toluene. This prototype dermal sampler developed by the Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM) consists of an adsorbent material sandwiched between a permeable membrane and an impervious backing. Toluene on the membrane surface diffuses towards the adsorbent. The concentration of toluene on the membrane surface may be estimated from the mass on the adsorbent and the known permeation rate of toluene through the membrane. The sampler was evaluated in laboratory and field tests, with promising results.
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CIS 03-811 Screening information data set - SIDS - for high production volume chemicals - Volume 7, Parts 1, 2 and 3.
United Nations Environment Programme, Case postale 356, 1219 Châtelaine, Genève, Switzerland, June 2002. viii, 328p. Index (Part 1); viii, 322p. Index (Part 2); viii, 295p. Index (Part 3). (In English)
Internet: Ecotoxicological and toxicological (acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, effects on reproduction, genetic effects) data for the risk assessment of: acetic anhydride; D & C Red No. 9; benzyl chloride; 2-butoxyethanol; 4-chloro-o-cresol; 2,6-dichlorotoluene; dicyclopentadiene; cresyl diphenyl phosphate; pentaerythritol; hydroquinone; melamine; 3-methyl butynol; α-methyl styrene.
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CIS 03-812 Ways for SMEs to assess and control risks from hazardous substances - Report of an international workshop held on 26 & 27 November 2001.
Tijssen S.C.H.A., Links I.H.M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. vi, 16p. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2543-5 (In English)
Internet: Many companies pay little attention to assessing exposure to chemicals and to the control of risks. This is specially true of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). In November 2001, a workshop entitled "Finding ways to help small and medium sized firms assess and manage the risks from hazardous substances" was organized in The Hague (The Netherlands) to share information on tools for assessment and control. There was a broad consensus among participants of several European institutes involved in this field regarding tools suited to SMEs: they need simple tools with explanations in plain language; tools should have a sound scientific basis; computer-based tools are worth developing since more and more workplaces have Internet access; since many tools use the data of safety data sheets as a starting point, they should be as accurate as possible. Several actions were agreed on in order to take these ideas forward.
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CIS 03-813 Effective communication of chemical hazard and risk information using a multimedia safety data sheet.
Creely K.S., Leith S., Graham M.K., Cowie H.A., Hughes J., George P., Cherrie J.W., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. vi, 149p. Illus. 91 ref. Price: GBP 30.00., ISBN 0-7176-2618-0 (In English)
Internet: Workers and managers often do not understand the technical information in safety data sheets (SDSs) and there is doubt as to whether these sheets are truly effective for communicating hazard and risk information. The development of a computer multimedia SDS (mmSDS) could provide a more reliable way of communicating essential information. Two mmSDSs were developed, one for formaldehyde-based embalming fluids and the other for a solvent-based paint. Workplace and laboratory studies were undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of the mmSDS in increasing users' knowledge of the hazardous substances in the product, as well as their ability to induce appropriate personal protective behaviour. Subjects received either the mmSDS or the conventional SDS. Exposure to hazardous substances was monitored pre- and post-intervention and the effect of the interventions on subjects' knowledge, attitudes and risk perception was assessed. The findings suggest that the mmSDS may be a more effective way of providing chemical safety information in the workplace than previous methods.
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CIS 03-814 Cancer risk following exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): A meta-analysis.
Armstrong B., Hutchinson E., Fletcher T., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. viii, 61p. Illus. 64 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2604-0 (In English)
Internet: Airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have long been known to cause cancer in animals and are classified as human carcinogens. A meta-analysis of published epidemiological studies that include assessments of occupational exposure to PAHs was carried out, in order to identify the determinants of lung and bladder cancer risk. Relevant reports published up to early 2001 were identified systematically using bibliographic databases. From each study that met the inclusion criteria, unit relative risk was estimated by Poisson regression from published tables of risk against estimated cumulative exposure. Distribution and determinants of unit relative risks (URRs) were investigated using standard meta-analytic methods. On average, the URR for lung cancer was 1.20 with significant variation across industries, while for bladder cancer, the average URR was 1.33, with little variation across industries.
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CIS 03-815 Fume emissions from resistance welding through adhesives and sealants.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, May 2002. vi, 26p. Illus. 8 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2143-X (In English)
Internet: Modern manufacturing practices, especially in the automotive industry, often involve resistance welding through adhesives and sealants. During welding, fumes that are possibly harmful to health may be inhaled by workers. Little is known about the concentration or composition of the fumes emitted, making it difficult to assess the risks to health arising from welding activities. In this study, fume composition data were generated for resistance welding through a representative range of epoxy-based adhesives and polybutadiene-based sealants for the purpose of enabling a comprehensive risk assessment. Benzene, 1,3-butadiene and acrylonitrile were the most harmful compounds identified. However, concentrations were low. Concentrations of carcinogenic polyaromatic hydrocarbons were also low, less than 1µg/m3.
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CIS 03-816 An assessment of skin sensitisation by the use of epoxy resin in the construction industry.
Tavakoli S.M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. vi, 35p. 58 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2675-X (In English)
Internet: This report presents the findings of a literature review and field survey on skin sensitization due to the use of epoxy resins, particularly in the construction industry. The most effective methods of reducing or preventing sensitization are described. As a result of the literature review, the main constituents in epoxy resin systems responsible for skin sensitization were identified. It was shown that the reactive constituents of base resin, curing agents and diluent resins used in the construction industry are responsible for skin sensitization to epoxy, either alone or in combination. The report recommends a number of protective measures including the use of effective protective clothing, alternative materials, mixing and dispensing procedures and safe handling of epoxy resins.
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CIS 03-817 Chemical hazards in selected technological processes. (Polish: Zagrożenia chemiczne w wybranych procesach technologicznych)
Pośniak M., ed., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 1999. 171p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 83-87354-53-8 (In Polish)
Internet: This publication is aimed at persons responsible for assessing occupational exposure to harmful substances involved in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene and its compounds, polyurethanes, as well as in the rubber industry and during impregnation. For each substance or process, it discusses sources of chemical hazards, health effects, sampling and analysis methods in the work environment, methods of hazard control and methods of neutralizing the harmful substances. See also CIS 03-804, which covers several other industrial processes.
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CIS 03-818 Toluene in rotogravure printing shops. (German: Toluol in Tiefdruckereien)
Seeber A., Blaszkewicz M., Demes P., Kiesswetter E., Schäper M., Sietmann B., von Thriel C., Zupanic M, Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, Aug. 2002. 373p. Illus. 215 ref., ISBN 3-88383-623-0 (In German)
Internet: This report presents the results of a long term study on the health effects of toluene exposure among 192 workers in 14 rotogravure printing shops. The workers were examined four times over a period of five years to collect data on past and present diseases, kidney and liver functions, the haemopoietic, peripheral nervous and cardiovascular systems, hearing, colour discrimination, attention, memory, fine motor performance, postural balance, physical and mental complaints and current symptoms. Over the five years of the study period, the workers near the printing machine had been exposed to an average toluene concentration of 25ppm and those working in remote places to 3ppm. No significant impact on health due to long-term or current exposure could be established.
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CIS 03-819 Biological surveillance of toxic environmental and occupational exposures. (French: Surveillance biologique des expositions toxiques environnementales et professionnelles)
Hoet P., Haufroid V., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2003, No.138, 8p. 5 ref. (In French)
Internet: In the context of occupational medicine, biological monitoring includes biological methods of exposure evaluation and the early detection of health effects. The main aim of medical supervision is to identify persons who already exhibit pre-clinical modifications resulting from excessive exposure, or who present functional or biological characteristics that may increase the risk of appearance of such effects were the exposure to be maintained. The purpose of biological exposure monitoring is to assess the potential health hazards by means of measurement of the internal dose of toxic agents to which persons are exposed. This article firstly highlights some of the major aspects relating to the reliability of analyses (quality control), the way results are expressed and their interpretation. It goes on to list the main chemicals that lend themselves to this type of surveillance.
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CIS 03-820 Technical guide for the assessment and prevention of hazards due to chemical agents at the workplace [Spain]. (Spanish: Guía técnica para la evaluación y prevención de los riesgos presentes en los lugares de trabajo relacionados con agentes químicos)
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 134p. Illus. 35 ref. Price: EUR 3.13., ISBN 84-7425-637-2 (In Spanish)
Internet: This guide is aimed at helping managers and OSH specialists in interpreting and implementing the provisions of the Royal Decree 374/2001 concerning the safety and health protection of workers against chemical agents at work (see CIS 01-964), and more particularly the provisions concerning the assessment of health hazards and the corresponding preventive measures.
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CIS 03-821 Guidance on evaluation of reproductive toxicity data.
European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of Chemicals, Avenue E. Van Nieuwenhuyse 4, Bte. 6, 1160 Bruxelles, Belgium, Feb. 2002. 136p. Illus. 87 ref. Price : EUR 50.00., ISBN 0773-6347-31 (In English)
Internet: This monograph provides guidance in the form of a structured approach for the interpretation of reproductive toxicity data. The approach is illustrated through the use of examples from several fertility and developmental toxicity studies. The possible role of maternal toxicity in the interpretation of the study findings is also taken into account. Contents: overview of the reproductive process; review of test guidelines; effects on embryo-foetal development; effects on fertility and reproduction; structured approach to evaluation of reproductive toxicity data. Appendices include: test guideline comparison; summary data sets for example substances.
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CIS 03-822 Globally harmonized system of classification and labelling of chemicals (GHS). (French: Système général harmonisé de classification et d'étiquetage des produits chimiques (SGH))
United Nations, Sales Section, 1211 Genève 10, Switzerland, 2003. 443p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price : USD 80.00., ISBN 92-1-116840-6 (En), ISBN 92-1-216463-3 (fr) (In English, French)
Internet: This document describes the globally harmonized system of classification and labelling of chemicals (GHS). Following an introduction defining the purpose, scope and application, the classification criteria and the hazard communication elements (labelling and safety data sheets) as well as a glossary of the terms and abbreviation used, the harmonized classification criteria and hazard communication elements are given for 16 physical hazards and 10 health and environmental hazards. In addition, guidance is included in the document to assist countries and organizations in the development of tools for implementation of the GHS.
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CIS 03-823 One-year accelerated depreciation allowance for chemical hazard control in factories.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 10 Nov. 2000. 12p. (In English)
Internet: This document presents the guidelines, qualifying criteria and application procedure for a tax incentive scheme to encourage enterprises to implement effective engineering measures for chemical hazard control in factories. A list of consultants and agencies providing chemical hazard control services, the fees for chemical-in-air assessment and the application forms for a one-year accelerated depreciation allowance for chemical hazard control in factories for the installation of engineering control measures or for the purchase of new machinery, equipment or systems are included.
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CIS 03-824 Guidelines on the handling of asbestos materials.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Safety and Health Division, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, June 2000. 30p. (In English)
Internet: These guidelines prepared by the Department of Industrial Health are aimed at those who undertake work with asbestos or asbestos containing materials. Contents: relevant legislation; health risks; identification of asbestos containing materials and notification of work involving asbestos; procedures for the handling of asbestos-based materials in the building and civil engineering industries; removal of asbestos-based insulating lagging; removal of asbestos-based materials from buildings; protective clothing and equipment; personal hygiene; dust monitoring; medical examinations. Appendices include: notification form of processes involving asbestos; list of asbestos-analysing laboratories and of companies supplying industrial vacuum cleaners and dust extracting systems; threshold limit values; sampling strategies for in-plant environmental surveillance programmes; hygiene monitoring report form and example of report; proposed environmental management courses; list of organization conducting air monitoring and/or sample analysis; application form for permission to dispose of asbestos waste.
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CIS 03-825 Guidelines for solvent management in dry-cleaning.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, Jan. 2000. i, 17p. Illus. (In English)
Internet: These guidelines provide recommendations on the work practices and control strategies for the use of perchloroethylene (PCE) as a solvent in dry-cleaning. Contents: physical and chemical properties and health hazards of PCE; legal requirements (precautions and measures to be taken, permissible exposure levels, medical examinations); description of the dry-cleaning process; work practices (PCE storage, machine operation, loading and unloading, solvent charging or transfer, spillage handling procedures, first-aid measures, personal protective appliances, prohibition of consumption of food and drink); spotting; maintenance of dry-cleaning machine; PCE monitoring in air; control strategies (substitution, process isolation, ventilation, modern dry-cleaning machine technology, solvent usage management). Appendices include: diagrams of dry-cleaning processes and of ventilation systems; log for solvent usage management.
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CIS 03-826 Composite materials. (French: Matériaux composites)
Pellet F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2001, No.131, 11p. 72 ref. (In French)
Internet: Composite materials consist of fibres embedded in a continuous matrix, most often resin-based. There are many possible constituents, exposing operators involved in their manufacture to a wide variety of possible exposure hazards. Skin diseases caused by glass fibre and epoxy resin are well documented, along with certain respiratory allergies. Other diseases may be caused by the liberation of plastic monomers, other fibres or additives used in the manufacturing process. It is important that occupational physicians correctly analyse the intrinsic hazards due to these substances and limit the risks by implementing suitable individual and collective protection measures.
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CIS 03-827 Manganese. (French: Manganèse)
Lauwerys R., Roels H., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2001, No.131, 7p. 90 ref. (In French)
Internet: The main activities that can give rise to manganese exposure include ore extraction, smelting, certain soldering operations, dry cell manufacture and the production and use of various manganese compounds. The inhalation of manganese oxide smoke can cause flu-like symptoms, similar to those of metal fume fever. The ingestion of manganese salts can cause massive burning of the digestive tract, upper respiratory tract oedema and circulatory collapse. Chronic manganese intoxication essentially results from the inhalation of the smoke of various manganese compounds, observed symptoms including tremors of the extremities, a reduction of reaction time and short-term memory changes. Various respiratory effects have also been reported among workers chronically-exposed to manganese. Determinations in urine and blood may be useful to confirm manganese absorption, but it is not possible to set biological values. To avoid the incidence of pre-clinical neurological effects, the average concentration of manganese in air (total dust) should not exceed 150µg/m3.
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CIS 03-828 Chlorine and swimming pools. (French: Chlore et piscines)
Héry M., Massin N., Gagnaire F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2001, No.131, 3p. Illus. 6 ref. (In French)
Internet: Disinfection of swimming-pool water is usually carried out by using chlorine, which reacts with nitrogen-containing substances from bathers to form chloramines, and in particular nitrogen trichloride, a highly-volatile substance that causes eye and respiratory irritations often encountered by swimming-pool staff. Technical solutions exist for lowering the atmospheric concentration of this substance to levels below 0.3-0.5mg/m3 which generally give rise to complaints. Contents of this information sheet on chlorine and swimming pools: formation of chloramines; irritating properties of nitrogen trichloride; methods of sampling and analysis of nitrogen trichloride; exposure levels in different types of swimming pools; effects of exposure to nitrogen trichloride on health; aeration for eliminating nitrogen trichloride.
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CIS 03-829 List of MAK and BAT values 2002.
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2002. 222p. + xxxip. Bibl.ref. Index., ISBN 3-527-27512-6 (In English)
Internet: Contents of this publication on maximum concentration at the workplace and biological tolerance values (referred to by their German acronyms MAK and BAT, respectively): significance, use and derivation of MAK values; lists of substances with their CAS numbers, chemical formulae, MAKs in ppm and mg/m3, as well as their peak exposure category, skin absorption (H) and sensitization (S) codes, carcinogenicity category, pregnancy group code, mutagen category and vapour pressure (in hPa) at 20°C; lists of substances for which no MAK value has been established, and of substances known to be dangerous to pregnant women or the foetus, but which have not been assigned to a risk category; additional information on known or suspected carcinogens (including drugs and tobacco smoke), allergens and aerosols; indicative technical concentrations (TRKs) for carcinogens; definition of BAT values; lists of BAT values for some substances. Replaces 2001 edition (in German), CIS 01-1179.
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CIS 03-830 Surveying, sampling and assessment of asbestos-containing materials.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 2001. 43p. Illus. 21 ref. Price: GBP 18.00., ISBN 0-7176-2076-X (In English)
Internet: This method for the determination of hazardous materials explains how to survey workplace premises for asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) and how to record the results in a usable form. It also gives advice on how to recognize and sample suspected ACMs. Contents: introduction; overview of requirements for surveying and sampling; purpose and type of survey; survey planning; health and safety risks; surveying; bulk sampling strategy; bulk sampling procedures; assessment; documentation; quality assurance procedures. Appendices include: photographs showing examples of ACM's; example of a surveying and sampling equipment checklist; asbestos warning label.
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CIS 03-831 Beryllium. (French: Le béryllium)
Savary B., Vincent R., Peltier A., Dornier G., Travail et sécurité, Apr. 2003, No.628, Insert. 4p. Illus. 5 ref. (In French)
Internet: Beryllium is used in many industrial applications; it is toxic, even at low concentrations. This safety information sheet summarizes the current state of knowledge with respect to prevention measures to be adopted when working in the presence of beryllium, as well as current legislation. Contents: uses (alloys, recovery of precious metals, aerospace, nuclear reactors, weaponry, scientific instruments); health hazards (berylliosis, skin and renal symptoms); exposure evaluation; biological monitoring; hazard management.
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CIS 03-832 Recommendation - Prevention of hazards linked to the production and use of glycol ethers. (French: Recommandation - Prévention des risques liés à la fabrication et à l'utilisation des éthers de glycol)
Travail et sécurité, Mar. 2002, No.616, Supplement II. 23p. (whole issue). (In French)
Internet: This special issue reproduces the full text of a recommendation adopted in France in 2001 on the prevention of risks linked to the production and use of glycol ethers. Contents: physical and chemical properties; toxicity (toxicology, animal studies, epidemiological studies); responsibilities of employers (hazard identification, exposure evaluation, establishing priorities, information of workers, workplace monitoring, biological monitoring, medical supervision). Appendices include: list of the most common glycol ethers; listing by CAS number; physical and chemical properties; examples of forms for defining exposure and establishing an inventory of predictable incidents; methods of determination in urine.
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CIS 03-833 Occupational skin diseases from antiseptics and disinfectants. (French: Dermatoses professionnelles aux antiseptiques et désinfectants)
Crépy M.N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2001, No.85, p.83-90. Illus. 62 ref. (In French)
Internet: Antiseptics and disinfectants are chemical formulations that include anti-microbial agents, excipients, cleaning agents and additives. Their use in large quantities, particularly in health care facilities, has given rise to numerous cases of occupational skin diseases. Contents of this of this review article on allergology and dermatology of antiseptics and disinfectants: classification by chemical class; epidemiology; diagnosis in occupational settings; confirmation of the diagnosis in specialized institutions; prognosis; prevention; compensation.
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CIS 03-834 Dust control in dyestuff handling.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Apr. 2002. 4p. Illus. 3 ref. (In English)
Internet: Dust from dyestuffs used in the textile industry may be harmful to health. Exposure can arise from processing conditions as well as from poor storage, damaged containers or spillage. This information sheet contains guidance on controlling dust from the handling of dyestuffs. Contents: general approach; controlling risk from dyestuff dust; local exhaust ventilation during dispensing and weighing; operation of local exhaust ventilation; housekeeping; personal protective equipment.
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CIS 03-835 COSHH and the woodworking industries.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2001. 4p. 19 ref. (In English)
Internet: This information sheet provides advice to employers on the application of the British Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 (COSHH, see CIS 00-620) to the woodworking industry. Contents: definition of a substance hazardous to health; types of potentially harmful substances found in the woodworking industry and their routes of entry into the body; need for a risk assessment and measures to be taken following identification of risks; air sampling; dust extraction for woodworking and portable machines; selection of respirators; need for health surveillance; employee training. Replaces CIS 01-1185.
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CIS 03-836 Occupational hygiene and health surveillance at industrial treatment plants.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Aug. 2002. 4p. 10 ref. (In English)
Internet: The protection of timber involves the use of preservatives that may present health hazards. These preservatives fall under the Control of Pesticides Regulations (COPR - see CIS 97-1423) and the Biocidal Products Regulations (BPR - see CIS 01-1299). Only products approved under these regulations may be used. Aimed at operators of timber treatment plants, this information sheet provides guidance on good occupational hygiene and health surveillance practices. Contents: hazards; legal requirements; personal protective equipment; other means of limitation of exposure; health surveillance; skin examination; biological monitoring. This information note replaces the 1994 document Occupational hygiene and health surveillance at industrial timber pre-treatment plants (se CIS 98-1427).
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CIS 03-837 Chemical hazards in molecular biology laboratories. (French: Risque chimique dans les laboratoires de biologie moléculaire)
Lefebvre V., Gimenez C., Brochard P., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 2001, No.85, p.3-31. Illus. 27 ref. (In French)
Internet: As is the case with all new disciplines, molecular biology gives rise to new hazards. Aimed at scientists directly involved as well as at occupational safety and health specialists, and in at particular at occupational health physicians responsible for the medical supervision of persons working in molecular biology laboratories, this article presents current understanding in the field of prevention of chemical hazards. A new method of hazard evaluation is proposed, based on a theoretical approach and on job studies. Knowledge of substances used as a function of laboratory activity and operating procedures specific to each molecular biology technique allows us to propose modifications to preventive and medical surveillance measures. The proper analysis and comprehension of molecular biology techniques is a first requisite for job studies and hazard evaluation in these laboratories.
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CIS 03-838 Resources on chemical hazard control.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road #05-01, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 2002. CD-ROM containing documents in PDF format. (In English)
Internet: This CD-ROM contains a collection of documents on chemical hazard control. Contents: guidelines and codes of practice (safety management system for the chemical industry; prevention and control of chemical hazards; safety data sheets; medical examination regulations; reporting of occupational diseases; occupational skin diseases; forms for the notification of occupational diseases; air sampling; solvent degreasing; substitution of solvents); list of service providers (auditors; chemical control consultants; air monitoring organizations; suppliers of emergency showers, personal protective equipment, respirators and safety signs); tax incentive scheme (one-year accelerated depreciation allowance for chemical hazard control investments); bio-monitoring; useful links.
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CIS 03-839 Explosion protection - Practical understanding of recent standards and new legislation in process safety.
European Process Safety Centre, The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IchemE), Davis Building, 165-189 Railway Terrace, Rugby CV21 3HQ, United Kingdom, 2003. v, 96p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: GBP 40.00 (+ VAT)., ISBN 0-85295-456-5 (In English)
Internet: Proceedings of an international conference on explosion protection held in Frankfurt, Germany, on 13 November 2002. The aim of the conference was to provide practical understanding of recent standards and forthcoming legislation in the area of protection explosion. The proceedings cover the following areas: review of experience of implementing IEC 61508 and associated standards; understanding and preparation fore compliance with the forthcoming ATEX (Explosion Directive) legislation; relationship between IEC 61508 and ATEX 100 and 118.
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CIS 03-840 Effects of flashfires on building occupants.
Ashe B.S.W., Rew P.J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. iv, 56p. Illus. 48 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2181-2 (In English)
Internet: This report analyses the likelihood of secondary ignition of the interior of buildings, based on the incident heat from a fire event and the duration of exposure to the event. It incorporates evacuation behaviour, making an assessment of the proportion of occupants who do not escape from the secondary fire. Due to the lack of data on the evacuation behaviour relating to external fires, case studies are used to estimate particular behaviour patterns. The key finding of this study is the increased probability of fatalities of building occupants due to multi-point ignition events, as compared to that for a single ignition. The model was used to generate typical scenarios.
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CIS 03-841 The National Week on Occupational Safety and Health - Preventing fire and explosion in Viet Nam. (Vietnamese: Tuân lê quôc gia - An toàn vê sinh lao đông và phòng chông cháy nô)
Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, Department of Labour Protection, National ILO/CIS Centre, 12 Ngo Quyen, Hanoi, Viet Nam, 2002. 76p. Illus., ISBN 92-2-013490-X (In English, Vietnamese)
Internet: The National Week on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and the prevention of fires and explosions (PFE) is organized annually in Viet Nam. This booklet summarizes the activities organized at the occasion of the Fifth National Week held during March 2002. Contents: introduction and brief history of the National Week on OSH-PFE; reasons behind the launching of the National Week on OSH-PFE; organization of the National Week on OSH-PFE; result of the National Week on OSH-PFE.
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CIS 03-842 Study on leakage in flat gaskets for manhole covers. (German: Leckageuntersuchungen an Flachdichtungen für Mannlochverschlüsse)
Poppendick K.E., Behrens H., Janßen W., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 88p. Illus. 21 ref. Price: EUR 11.00., ISBN 3-89701-835-7 (In German)
Internet: The leak-proof properties of seals depend on numerous factors, some of which are relatively complex. This report presents the results of a study on the leakage behaviour of flat static joints, and more particularly of bolted manhole cover gaskets. Three series of tests were conducted: leakage behaviour as a function of bolt tightening procedures, using different types of gaskets and with the systematic change of compressive load per unit area. Findings show that the specific rates of leakage in the nine types of flat gaskets studied are influenced considerably by the type of sealing material, the conditions of use and by the mechanical properties of the equipment flange used. The report will help users select suitable sealing.
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CIS 03-843 Mutual misconceptions between designers and operators of hazardous installations.
Busby J.S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. viii, 52p. Illus. 48 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2622-9 (In English)
Internet: This report describes research on the topic of misconceptions that designers of hazardous installations sometimes have about operators and the operating environment, and the misconceptions that operating and maintenance staff have about designers, the design process or design intentions. These misconceptions are central to many accidents and incidents. It seems possible that knowledge about how past misconceptions have contributed to past failures could be used to forestall future failures. A first part of the report describes a simple method to help operators test whether they have misconceptions about the design, and to help designers test whether they have misconceptions about operators. A second part provides a description of the objectives, methods, results and conclusions.
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CIS 03-844 Safety report regime - Evaluating the impact on new entrants to COMAH.
Brazier A, Waite P., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. vi, 51p. Illus. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2173-1 (In English)
Internet: This report addresses the impact of writing a Control of Major Accident Hazards Regulations (COMAH, see CIS 00-24) safety report on the views and perceptions of duty holders. A group of new entrants to COMAH was identified as the ideal target group. Questionnaires were sent to 303 establishments; the response rate was 50%, with 66% for the target group. 43 interviews were also carried out. 90% of establishments had made some changes to their arrangements for major accident hazards as a result of COMAH. 55% commented that without COMAH these changes would not have happened, or would have taken much longer. The study suggests that although writing a safety report helps to systematically identify where changes are needed, it can also lead to delays in implementing changes to the way safety is managed. The financial impact of COMAH on industry has been significant, and the judgement as to whether this represents value for money is finely balanced.
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CIS 03-845 Development of human factors methods and associated standards for major hazard industries.
Simpson G., Tunley C., Burton M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. iv, 115p. Illus. 6 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2678-4 (In English)
Internet: The aim of the proposed research was to develop guidelines to assist both inspectors and staff on chemical plants in assessing the management of human factor issues. The scope of work required the development of guidance information on five human factor aspects including procedures, availability of information, communications, emergency planning and accident investigation. These would then act as prototypes in developing additional topics. The guidance topics were selected following the application of an incident analysis process which provided an informed overview of the human factors issues that were influencing accidents in the chemical industry. A human factors analysis framework was developed and applied as part of this process.
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CIS 03-846 Competence assessment for the hazardous industries.
Wright M., Turner D., Horbury C., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. xvi, 81p. + 40p. (case studies). Illus. 15 ref. Price: GBP 20.00., ISBN 0-7176-2167-7 (In English)
Internet: COMAH duty holders recognize the importance of experienced and competent staff. With the implementation of the Control of Major Accident Hazard Regulations 1999 (COMAH, see CIS 00-24) on 1 April 1999, it is no longer acceptable to make untested assumptions about staff competence. The Health and Safety Executive developed a safety report assessment guidance that asks for a competence assurance systemincluding the setting of appropriate competence standards and an assessment and reassessment of competence. This report provides a review of current practice, a view of what comprises good practice in the field of competence assessment in relation to major accident prevention, and a body of advice, checklists and examples of assessment. An appendix includes ten summaries of case studies.
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CIS 03-847 The safe use and handling of flammable liquids.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. viii, 66p. Illus. 81 ref. Price: GBP 8.50., ISBN 0-7176-0967-7 (In English)
Internet: This booklet provides information on the fire and explosion hazards associated with flammable liquids and describes practical measures to protect workers. It is aimed at persons directly responsible for the safe use and handling of flammable liquids in all general work activities and in small-scale chemical processing, as well as at safety specialists and industry associations. Contents: scope; hazards; precautions; sources of ignition; ventilation; health precautions; maintenance; housekeeping; disposal of flammable liquids; information and training; general fire precautions; emergency procedures. Appendices include: legal requirements; fire-resisting structures; hazardous area classification.
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CIS 03-848 Prevention of accidents due to fires underground in coal mines. (French: Prévention des accidents causés par les feux et les incendies dans les travaux souterrains des mines de charbon)
ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1959. v, 48p. Index. (In English, French)
Internet: This code of practice on the prevention of accidents due to fires underground in coal mines comprises two parts. Part 1 contains provisions applicable to all coal mines, namely a series of general operation precautions, together with provisions on the organization of the prevention and detection of fires and of fire fighting. Part 2 contains additional provisions applicable to mines liable to spontaneous combustion.
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CIS 03-849 Unloading petrol from tankers.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, May 2003. iv, 20p. 21 ref. Price: GBP 9.00., ISBN 0-7176-2197-9 (In English)
Internet: This code of practice on unloading motor fuel from road tankers aims to reduce the risks of fires and explosions and prevent falls from road tankers during unloading operations at filling stations. It gives practical guidance on avoiding overfilling storage tanks, controlling ignition sources, dealing with spillages and fall prevention. It details the steps operators should take to comply with Regulation 6 of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR), regarding safe unloading of petrol from road tankers, and Regulation 13(1), (2) and (3) of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (The Workplace Regulations, see CIS 98-125) regarding the prevention of falls from tankers.
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CIS 03-850 Emergency plans in offices - Guide for their development. (Spanish: Planes de autoprotección en oficinas - Guía para su elaboración)
Vicente Alepuz P., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 121p. Illus. 19 ref., ISBN 84-7425-532-5 (In Spanish)
Internet: This document is aimed at persons in charge of the design, the organization and the implementation of emergency plans in office spaces and buildings. Contents: legislation; risk and evacuation conditions assessment; technical and organizational means of protection; organization and implementation of the emergency plan.
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CIS 03-851 Local Emergency Planning Committees - Guarding the safety of your community.
United States Environmental Protection Agency, USA, 2002. Internet address: http://www.epa.gov/ceppo/ . Videotape (NTSC format, length: 23min). (In English)
Internet: Hazardous chemicals are part of modern fife. While chemicals are generally handled safely, serious accidents in the mid-1980s led the United States Congress to create Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPCs). LEPCs prevent and plan the response to accidental or deliberate chemical incidents. This videotape tells the history behind the creation of LEPCs and the community members who belong to them and explains what LEPCs do to guard the safety of your community.
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CIS 03-852 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards. (French: Normes de compatibilité électromagnétique (CEM))
Klein R., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2000, No.181, p.55-62. Illus. 26 ref. (In French)
Internet: In numerous sectors of activity, the action of electromagnetic disturbance on electronic systems can result in malfunctions liable to engender risks. This is why the validation of the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of systems, which follows the design and development phases, is based on the implementation of well-defined standards. This article examines the possibilities for implementing these constantly evolving standards, which are based on the European EMC Directive. By means of concrete examples (machinery, large-size machines, personal protective equipment, automotive industry), it also indicates the limits of standardization and how the diversity of the standards - according to system, sector of activity, requirement level - is creating a disparity in implementation within different industrial sectors. A number of points of consideration are also given for an EMC methodology that may be worth developing transversally in all processes involving standard making or application of relevant standards when systems safety is concerned.
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CIS 03-853 Prevention of accidents due to electricity in underground in coal mines. (French: Prévention des accidents causés par l'électricité dans les travaux souterrains des mines de charbon; Spanish: Prevención de los accidentes causados por la electricidad en las labores subterráneas de las minas de carbón)
ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1959. v, 54p. Index. (In English, French, Spanish)
Internet: This code of practice on the prevention of accidents due to electricity underground in coal mines comprises two parts. Part 1 contains provisions applicable to all coal mines, including general provisions and provisions on installation, examination, testing, maintenance and repairs. Part 2 contains additional provisions applicable to gassy and dusty mines.
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CIS 03-854 Fire fighters exposed to electrical hazards during wildland fire operations - Description of hazard. (Spanish: Bomberos expuestos a riesgos eléctricos durante operaciones de extinción de incendios en terrenos sin cultivar - Descripción del riesgo)
Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Jan. 2002. 4p. 9 ref. (In English, Spanish)
Internet: Electrical hazards are among the various hazards faced by fire fighters during waste land fire operations. Between 1980 and 1999, ten firefighters died from contact with electricity during wasteland fires. Contents of this information note on electrical hazards to fire fighters during wasteland fire operations: situations where fire fighters can be exposed to electrical shock hazards; description of two accident cases; measures to be implemented by fire departments and fire fighters to prevent electrocution, electrical shock and electricity-related burns while fighting wasteland fires.
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CIS 03-855 Noise attenuation and proper insertion of earplugs into ear canals.
Toivonen M., Pääkkönen R., Savolainen S., Lehtomäki K., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Aug. 2002, Vol.46, No.6, p.527-530. Illus. 8 ref. (In English)
Internet: To determine whether noise attenuation can be improved by informing workers on the proper insertion of earplugs, 54 randomly-selected male subjects were divided into two groups: an untrained group (25 persons) and a group who had received training (29 persons). The trained group was provided with information on earplug insertion and allowed to practice the insertion procedure, whereas the untrained group acted as controls. The success of the training was measured by the MIRE (microphone in real ear) and REAT (real ear at threshold) methods, visual evaluation and an inspection of the subjects' ear canals. According to the MIRE method, average noise attenuation was 21dB for the untrained group and 31dB for the trained group. With the REAT method, attenuation at 1000Hz was 24dB for the untrained group and 30dB for the trained group. The visual evaluation of the earplug fit was 1.9 for the untrained group and 2.6 for the trained group (scales 0-3).
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CIS 03-856 Hearing protectors [sic] acceptability in noisy environments.
Arezes P.M., Miguel A.S., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Aug. 2002, Vol.46, No.6, p.531-536. 21 ref. (In English)
Internet: The choice of hearing protectors should take ergonomic features into account. The purpose of this study was to analyse the relationship between the acoustical attenuation efficiency and other aspects related to the comfort of hearing protectors and consequently their acceptability by workers exposed to noisy industrial environments. A subjective evaluation of comfort was performed using a questionnaire completed by 20 workers. The time during which the protectors were used was self-recorded by each subject. The results show that there are significant differences between that claimed by the supplier and effective attenuation. Protectors which were more comfortable tended to be more efficient than protectors with a higher claimed attenuation, but which were less comfortable.
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CIS 03-857 Values based on experience for the duration of workbreaks during work in hot workplaces. (German: Erfahrungswerte für Hitzepausen)
Pangert R., Ergo-Med, Nov.-Dec. 2002, Vol.26, No.6, p.158-161. Illus. 6 ref. (In German)
Internet: In Germany, there are no directives concerning the duration of workbreaks during short periods of work in hot workplaces, for example for carrying out repairs. Since it is impossible to define theoretical values for the duration, durations applied in practice in hot workplaces were collected and evaluated. Three levels of thermal constraints can be defined for dry climates: for temperatures below 36°C, normal workbreak durations are sufficient; between 36° and 45°, a break of approximately 30min should be made after each hour of work; for temperatures above 45°, breaks of approximately 20min should be made after each 20min period of work, approximately. These results will be taken into account when preparing the directives on workbreaks during work in hot workplaces.
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CIS 03-858 Probability of survival during accidental immersion in cold water.
Wissler E.H., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.74, No.1, p.47-55. Illus. 33 ref. (In English)
Internet: This paper describes a theoretical approach to estimating the probability of survival during accidental immersion in cold water. The human thermal model is used to compute the central temperature during immersion in cold water. Simultaneously, a survival probability function is computed by solving a differential equation that defines how the probability of survival decreases with increasing time. The survival equation assumes that the probability of occurrence of a fatal event increases as the victim's central temperature decreases. Generally accepted views of the medical consequences of hypothermia and published reports of various accidents provide information useful for defining a "fatality function" that increases exponentially with decreasing central temperature. The particular function suggested in this paper yields a relationship between immersion time for 10% probability of survival and water temperature that agrees very well with empirical observations based on World War II data.
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CIS 03-859 Exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields among working women and homemakers.
McCurdy A.L., Wijnberg L., Loomis D., Savitz D., Nylander-French L.A., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Nov. 2001, Vol.45, No.8, p.643-650. 39 ref. (In English)
Internet: The goal of this study was to examine the magnitude and sources of occupational and residential exposure to extremely low frequency (primarily 60Hz) magnetic fields among women. Exposure to 60Hz magnetic fields was surveyed among breast cancer cases and controls recruited in 25 counties in North Carolina. The 273 women who participated wore an integrating personal magnetic-field exposure meter (AMEX 3-D) that measured their time-weighted average (TWA) exposure. A questionnaire was administered to determine the duration and frequency of electric appliance and machinery use. Women working in manufacturing and industrial facilities had the highest exposure (geometric mean (GM) = 0.265µT), while nurses and health technicians and teachers and school administrators had the lowest exposures (respectively GM 0.134µT and GM 0.099µT). The results show that occupations observed in previous studies to have increased risk of breast cancer, such as teachers, nurses, administrative support and housewives, did not have elevated average magnetic field exposures.
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CIS 03-860 Dose-response patterns for vibration-induced white finger.
Griffin M.J., Bovenzi M., Nelson C.M., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.60, No.1, p.16-26. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)
Internet: To investigate the relationship between cumulative exposures to hand-transmitted vibration and the development of vibration white finger, data of three previous studies were combined to provide a group of 1557 users of powered vibrating tools in seven occupational groups: stone grinders, stone carvers, quarry drillers, dockyard caulkers, dockyard boilermakers, dockyard painters and forest workers. Cumulative exposures were calculated for each subject from measurements of vibration magnitude and exposure duration. An increase in dose was associated with a significant increase in the occurrence of vibration-induced white finger, after adjustment for age and smoking. Measures of dose calculated from the unweighted acceleration gave better predictions than the equivalent dose measures using acceleration frequency-weighted according to current standards.
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CIS 03-861 The effect of simulated weightlessness on hypobaric decompression sickness.
Balldin U.I., Pilmanis A.A., Webb J.T., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.73, No.8, p.773-778. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)
Internet: A discrepancy exists between the 20-40% reported incidence of ground-based decompression sickness (DCS) during simulated extravehicular activity at hypobaric space suit pressure, and the zero crewmember reports during actual extravehicular activity. This could be due to the effect of gravity during ground-based DCS studies. 39 male subjects were exposed to a hypobaric pressure of 29.6kPa for up to four hours. 26 controls pre-oxygenated for 60min (first 10min exercising) before being exposed to hypobaric exposure while walking around in the altitude chamber. To simulate weightlessness, the 39 test subjects remained supine for three hours prior to and during the 60-min pre-oxygenation, and at hypobaric pressure. DCS symptoms and gas emboli at hypobaric pressure were registered. No significant difference in incidence of DCS was found between control and simulated weightlessness conditions, while emboli occurred more frequently during the control condition.
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CIS 03-862 Incidence of decompression sickness in hypoxia training with and without 30-min O2 prebreathe.
Rice G.M., Vacchiano C.A., Moore J.L., Anderson D.W., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.74, No.1, p.56-61. Illus. 16 ref. (In English)
Internet: Naval aircrew are required to participate in hypoxia familiarization training. This training is considered high-risk due to the potential for barotrauma and decompression sickness (DCS). Prior analysis of the DCS in U.S. Navy hypobaric chambers revealed a significantly higher incidence among inside observers (IOs) than among students. In response to these reports, all IOs are required to de-nitrogenate by breathing 100% oxygen for 30min prior to altitude exposure. However, there have been no reports validating the efficacy of this measure. This study examined the incidence of altitude DCS during exposures to simulated altitudes of 25,000ft (25k) and 35,000ft (35k) in IOs and students, some who pre-breathed oxygen and some who did not. Results indicate that a 30-min pre-breathe prior to altitude exposure reduces the risk of DCS.
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CIS 03-863 Audiometric findings in workers exposed to low levels of styrene and noise.
Morata T.C., Johnson A.C., Nylen P., Svensson E.B., Cheng J., Krieg E.F., Lindblad A.C., Enrstgård L., Franks J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.44, No.9, p.806-814. Illus. 37 ref. (In English)
Internet: This study involved a total of 313 workers potentially exposed to noise and styrene working at fibreglass and metal products manufacturing plants and at a mail distribution terminal. Workers exposed to both noise (measured by audiometry) and styrene had significantly worse pure-tone thresholds at 2, 3, 4 and 6kHz when compared with noise-only-exposed or non-exposed workers. Age, noise exposure and urinary mandelic acid (a biomarker for styrene) were the variables that met the significance level criterion in the multiple logistic regression. The odds ratios for hearing loss were 1.19 for each increment of one year of age, 1.18 for every decibel >85dB(A) of noise exposure, and 2.44 for each mmol of mandelic acid per g of creatinine in urine. The findings suggest that exposure to styrene, even below recommended values, has a toxic effect on the auditory system.
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CIS 03-864 A comprehensive investigation of noise exposure in and around an integrated iron and steel works.
Pandya G.H., Dharmadhikari D.M., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Mar.-Apr. 2002, Vol.63, No.2, p.172-177. Illus. 7 ref. (In English)
Internet: An environmental noise exposure study was carried out at a major iron and steel plant surrounded by residential and commercial areas. Traffic activity near the plant was significant and added to the background noise level. Considering the variety of noise sources in the plant area and in the neighbourhood, a practical approach to measure noise equivalent level in the plant and in the residential, commercial, industrial, and silence zone was adopted. Worker exposure was assessed by determining the speech interference level (SIL), loudness level, and noise rating level at one of the major sources located in the power plant of the steel works. The results indicate that SIL was 94dBA, loudness level was 112 phons, and the noise rating was in the range of 85-95dbA. A traffic noise index also was determined near the plant gates and was in the range of 68-96dBA. The impact on the community is significant. Some mitigation measures for noise control are discussed.
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CIS 03-865 Ultraviolet radiation emitted by CO2 arc welding.
Okuno T., Ojima J., Saito H., Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2001, Vol.45, No.7, p.597-601. Illus. 13 ref (In English)
Internet: The arcs associated with arc welding emit high levels of ultraviolet radiation (UVR), and this often causes acute injuries in the workplace, particularly photokeratoconjunctivitis. In this study, the effective irradiance for UVR was measured experimentally for CO2 arc welding in order to evaluate its UVR hazards. A welding robot was used in the experiment in order to ensure reproducible and consistent welding conditions. The effective irradiance at 1m from the arc was in the range 0.28-7.85W/m2 under the study conditions. The corresponding permissible exposure time per day is only 4-100s, suggesting that UVR from CO2 arc welding is actually hazardous for the eye and skin. It was found that the effective irradiance is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the arc, is strongly dependent on the direction of emission from the arc with a maximum at 50-60° from the plate surface, and tends to increase with the welding current.
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CIS 03-866 Individual thermal profiles as a basis for comfort improvement in space and other environments.
Koscheyev V.S., Coca A., Leon G.R., Dancisak M.J., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2002, Vol.73, No.12, p.1195-1202. Illus. 31 ref. (In English)
Internet: Thermoregulation is of considerable importance for humans in space and other extreme environments. A methodology is presented for evaluating heat flux from specific body zones, and for assessing individual differences in the efficiency of heat exchange from these body areas. The goal is to apply this information to the design of individualized protective equipment. A multi-compartment conductive plastic tubing liquid cooling and warming garment was developed. Inlet water temperatures of 8-45°C were imposed sequentially to specific body areas while the remainder of the garment was maintained at 33°C. The greatest amount of heat was exchanged by the thighs, torso, calves and forearms. Calculation of heat transfer rates standardized per unit tube length and flow rate instead of surface area covered showed that there was significantly greater heat transfer in the head, hands and feet. There was considerable subject variability in rates of heat transfer in the torso, thighs, shoulders, and calves and forearms.
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CIS 03-867 An investigation of noise levels in Alberta sawmills.
Koehncke N., Taylor M., Taylor C., Harman L., Hessel P.A., Beaulne P., Guidotti T., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2003, Vol.43, No.2, p.156-164. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)
Internet: This study documents the level of noise exposure in nine sawmills in the province of Alberta, Canada. 213 personal noise monitoring measurements were carried out. Only 10% of the personal monitoring measurements were below the Alberta 8-hr exposure limit of 85dBA. 27% of the personal monitoring measurements were 95dBA or higher. Worker enclosures played a large role in reducing noise exposure. There were no significant differences between seasons in noise category distributions. The planer and planer infeed operators had the highest percentage of personal monitoring measurements 95dBA or higher (62% and 82%, respectively). Based on conservative noise attenuation criteria, a risk of excess noise exposure could exist even when wearing required hearing protection due to very high noise levels found in planing operations in sawmills.
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CIS 03-868 Analysis of underwater diving accidents in a hyperbaric treatment centre. (French: Analyse des accidents de plongée sous-marine dans un centre de traitement hyperbare)
Faralli F., Panico S., Renzoni F., Cardoni V., Pultrone S., Simonazzi A., Bianchi F., De Cardoni C., Arcangelis N., Pascalizi S., Simonazzi S., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2003, No.94, p.171-181. Illus. 31 ref. (In French)
Internet: Contents of this article on decompression accidents among divers: persons at risk; diving techniques; Italian regulations concerning underwater work under hyperbaric conditions; description of decompression accidents and their treatment; findings of a survey involving 60 victims of diving accidents having occurred between 1989 and 1999 who were given oxygenotherapy in a hyperbaric treatment centre. Boxes include: French regulations on the protection of persons working in hyperbaric conditions and compensation of decompression accidents; main decompression pathologies (gas emboli, type I and II decompression sickness); diving tables.
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CIS 03-869 Sound exposure among the Finnish National Opera personnel.
Laitinen H.M., Toppila E.M., Olkinuora P.S., Kuisma K., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Mar. 2003, Vol.18, No.3, p.177-182. Illus. 10 ref. (In English)
Internet: The purpose of the study was to determine the noise exposure among the staff of the Finnish National Opera. An evaluation of sound exposure level due to individual and group rehearsals was also carried out. The measurements were made using individual noise dosimeters and fixed-point measurements. Although it was found that conductors, dancers and double bass players were exposed to levels below 85dB(A), the majority of opera staff were exposed to levels that exceeded this limit during both rehearsals and performances. When exposures exceed 85dB(A), the employer is required to develop a hearing conservation programme. There exist hearing protection devices designed specially for musicians. However, both education efforts and enforcement measures will be necessary to encourage more widespread use.
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CIS 03-870 A review of fluid replacement for workers in hot jobs.
Clapp A.J., Bishop P.A., Smith J.F., Lloyd L.K., Wright K.E., American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Mar.-Apr. 2002, Vol.63, No.2, p.190-198. 95 ref. (In English)
Internet: Prolonged work in hot environments leads to progressive water and electrolyte loss from the body. The rate of sweating varies among individuals and depends on the environmental conditions, but with protective clothing and in very hot environments, rates can reach 2.25L/h. Because hypohydration will impair physical performance and increases the risk of heat injury, consumption of fluids is necessary to prevent dehydration. Much of the research on rehydration has been conducted in sports settings. This review interprets the existing research literature on hydration to provide industrial hygienists and safety professionals with scientific bases for making recommendations regarding beverage availability and hydration practices. Although water fountains are very common, some previous research has reported that drinks containing low to moderate levels of electrolytes and carbohydrates may provide some significant advantages in industrial situations.
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CIS 03-871 Sun-related behaviors of outdoor working men with a history of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Woolley T., Buettner P.G., Lowe J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2002, Vol.44, No.9, p.847-854. 52 ref. (In English)
Internet: The present study describes sun exposure and sun protection behaviour of Northern Australian outdoor workers with previous non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). In 1999, a cross-sectional study of northern Australian men with previous NMSC was conducted by self-administered questionnaire. Compared to other men, outdoor workers spent more time in the sun on average working days and days off. Outdoor workers with sun-sensitive skin reported that more skin lesions had been removed. The workplace did not reinforce sun-safe practices of 36.8% of workers who spent half their time or more outdoors. Sun protective behaviour was not different between in- and outdoor workers.
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CIS 03-872 Isolation and auto-balancing techniques for portable machines.
Stayner R.M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. vi, 51p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: GBP 25.00., ISBN 0-7176-2674-1 (In English)
Internet: A portable engine-powered strimmer is used as a case study of the application of vibration analysis and control techniques. Strimmers have two sources of vibration, the engine and the cutting head. These were identified by frequency analysis, and resonant modes were shown to exist in the range of working frequencies. It was shown that better locations are possible for attaching the handles. Finally, suggestions are given for the maintenance of strimmers to ensure low vibration.
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CIS 03-873 Identification and study of products that favour reduced exposure to hand-arm vibration among operators of vibrating hand tools. (French: Identification et étude de produits favorisant la réduction de l'exposition aux vibrations main-bras chez les opérateurs d'outils portatifs vibrants)
Boileau P.E., Rakheja S., Boutin J., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 3C2, Canada, Dec. 2002. iv, 156p. Illus. 37 ref. Includes a CD-ROM containing the PDF version of the document (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)., ISBN 2-551-21694-X (In French)
Internet: To reduce the risks of hand-arm vibration syndrome when using vibrating portable power tools, several manufacturers offer "anti-vibrating" products whose true efficiencies remain untested. The objective of this study was to conduct an inventory of available anti-vibrating products (tools, handles, gloves) and to conduct tests for evaluating their vibration attenuation efficiency on workbenches that comply with the recommendations of various ISO standards. An analytical model representing a combination of a chipping-hammer and a hand-arm system was also developed and validated on the basis of the results obtained on the test bench.
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CIS 03-874 Protection against infrasonic and low-frequency noise in industrial settings. (Polish: Przemysłowe zabezpieczenia przed hałasem infradźwiękowym i niskoczęstotliwościowym)
Kaczmarska A., Augustyńska D., Engel Z., Górski P., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 76p. Illus. 61 ref., ISBN 83-88703-68-4 (In Polish)
Internet: This publication addresses the issue of infrasound and low-frequency noise in the work environment. Contents: brief overview of the characteristics of infrasound (definitions and sources of noise); models of infrasonic noise and low frequency noise control, which can be helpful for the design and selection of anti-noise protective devices.
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CIS 03-875 Lowering the exposure to vibrations on mobile machines by adopting seats with automatic suspensions. (German: Verminderung der Schwingungsexposition auf mobilen Arbeitsmaschinen durch Schwingungsschutzsitze mit geregelter Dämpfung)
Hauck M., Tattermusch W., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1999. 114p. Illus. 16 ref. Price: EUR 12.50., ISBN 3-89701-419-X (In German)
Internet: The physical limits of the vibration damping effect of regular passive suspension seats are very narrow, the minimum absorption required to limit the vibrations due to the seat reducing its efficiency in the main excitation frequencies situated in the range 2-4Hz. The objective of this research project was to develop a seat whose suspension would be regulated directly from the excitation frequency of the cabin floor, without intervention by the driver. This report describes the technical modifications to the seat as well as the results of test bench measurements.
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CIS 03-876 Hand-arm vibration models for use in hand-held machine test benches. (German: Schwingungstechnische Modelle der Hand-Arm-Systeme für die Verwendung in Prüfständen von Handmaschinen)
Kinne J., Latzel K., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1999. 110p. Illus. 38 ref. Price: EUR 12.00., ISBN 3-89701-420-3 (In German)
Internet: Vibration models of the hand-arm system were developed with a view of integrating them into text benches for hand-held machines. The practical use of the model was verified by carrying out comparative measurements between vibrations to which operators are subjected and those recorded for the models. Results indicate good agreement between the measured values; however, there was less dispersion for the model values than for the operator values. Finally, the influence of impedance of a hand-arm system on the vibration of the hand-held machine and the influence of two hand-arm systems (ambidextral use of the tool) on the machine-operator system were examined. The results are conclusive and both hand-arm systems need to be taken into consideration when developing vibration models.
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CIS 03-877 Vibratory models for seated persons subjected to oscillations in the horizontal direction. (German: Schwingungsmodelle des sitzenden Menschen für die horizontalen Schwingungsrichtungen)
Kinne J., Latzel K., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 91p. Illus. 26 ref. Price: EUR 10.50., ISBN 3-89701-833-0 (In German)
Internet: Drivers of trucks, agricultural machinery or other motorized vehicles are subjected to oscillations (or vibrations). In order to optimize and evaluate the damping effects of drivers' seats for horizontal oscillations without having to use human test subjects, it was necessary to develop appropriate vibratory models. This document explains how these types of models were developed.
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CIS 03-878 Contribution on the determination of the structure-borne sound power in beams of any shape. (German: Ein Beitrag zur Bestimmung der Körperschallleistung in allgemein gestalteten Balken)
Kurtz P., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 234p. Illus. 55 ref. Price: EUR 19.00., ISBN 3-89701-838-1 (In German)
Internet: This work is based on the Hübner's structure-bound sound wave theory. Following a description of the theory and its application to beams of any shape, the structure-borne sound power in beams of any shape was investigated generally. Analyses carried out in greater detail for beams having more restricted shapes are presented in graphic form. The report also provides an overview of the various values to be measured and the parameters necessary for determining structure-borne sound power in beams.
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CIS 03-879 Health effects of occupational exposure to local vibrations and their prevention. (Polish: Skutki zdrowotne zawodowego narażenia na drgania miejscowe - wytyczne postępowania profilaktycznego)
Koton J., Harazin B., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2000. 52p. Illus. 40 ref., ISBN 83-88703-85-4 (In Polish)
Internet: This booklet describes the health effects of occupational exposure to local vibrations (effect on the body through the hands and arms) and prevention methods. It is aimed at occupational safety and health services, employers and workers who are exposed to these types of vibrations. It can be also useful for manufacturers and suppliers of vibrating equipment.
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CIS 03-880 Work at computer screens and noise. (German: Bildschirmarbeit und Geräusche)
Sust C.A., Lazarus H., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 108p. Illus. 46 ref. Price: EUR 11.50., ISBN 3-89701-927-2 (In German)
Internet: This report describes an experiment conducted over a five-day period during which 32 participants carried out several typical office tasks of varying complexity while being subjected to five levels of noise (from 35 to 70dB). Results indicate that the performance (time necessary for completion and quality of work) was reduced with increasing task complexity and noise exposure. Participants also felt an increasing need to rest. In situations where the tasks were highly complex and involved a large amount of information, and where the noise levels are high, there was a tendency to cease work or to carry out only part of the task.
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CIS 03-881 Implementation and evaluation of air flow and heat transfer routines for building stimulation tools.
Tuomaala P., VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, VTT Information Service, P.O.Box 2000, 02044 VTT, Finland, 2002. 45+52p. Illus. 27 ref., ISBN 951-38-5995-9 (In English)
Internet: The objective of this thesis was to study the implementation and evaluation of air flow and heat transfer routines, in order to allow a better understanding of thermal and ventilation performance in buildings. Simulation routines were developed, focusing on the methods of predicting air infiltration and ventilation processes and multi-mode heat transfer within and between different building structures. The simulation routines were implemented in a new building simulation tool entitled BUS++ and various tests were conducted to validate the air flow and heat transfer routines.
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CIS 03-882 Precepts and needs for long-term medical surveillance of workers exposed to ionizing radiation. (French: Préceptes et nécessités de la surveillance médicale prolongée des travailleurs exposés aux rayonnements ionisants)
Libouton P., Médecine du travail & Ergonomie / Arbeidsgezondheitszorg & Ergonomie, 2002, Vol.XXXIX, No.4, p.169-174. 11 ref. (In French)
Internet: This article addresses the effects of ionizing radiation on the human body, with an emphasis on carcinogenic effects. Taking into consideration the usually low levels of exposure, the increasing importance of individual co-factors and the expected scientific advances in genetics, the implementation of post-exposure medical follow up is recommended. Contents: scientific and epidemiological data; example of post-occupational medical surveillance as it is practiced in France; epidemiological surveys and occupational exposures; diseases caused by exposure to ionizing radiation; compensable occupational diseases caused by exposure to ionizing radiation in Belgium.
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CIS 03-883 One-year accelerated depreciation allowance for noise control in factories.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 10 Nov. 2000. 12p. (In English)
Internet: This document presents the guidelines, qualifying criteria and application procedure for tax incentive scheme to encourage enterprises to implement effective engineering measures for noise control in factories. A list of consultants and agencies providing noise control services, the fees for noise assessment and application forms for a one-year accelerated depreciation allowance for noise control in factories for the installation of engineering control measures or for the purchase of less noisy machinery, equipment or systems are included.
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CIS 03-884 Successful implementation of acoustic enclosures. (French: Réussir un encoffrement acoustique)
Travail et sécurité, Mar. 2003, No.627, insert, 6p. Illus. 6 ref. (In French)
Internet: Aimed at persons responsible for occupational hygiene within enterprises, this practical information sheet presents the basic principles for the design of acoustic enclosures, together with the rules that should be followed during design. The three basic principles are human protection (lowering noise levels at the place of work), assessment of the impact of the enclosure on the work environment and working methods, and the early involvement of the various persons concerned by the acoustic enclosure project. Technical rules that should be followed during design include the evaluation of constraints, machine insulation, noise absorption within the enclosure, limitation of leaks, treatment of openings and the decoupling of the enclosure. Once in place, the effectiveness of the enclosure needs to be checked.
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CIS 03-885 Guidance for the use of hearing protectors at noisy workplaces. (Polish: Zasady użytkowania ochronników słuchu na hałaśliwych stanowiskach pracy)
Kotarbińska E., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2001. 23p. Illus. 22 ref., ISBN 83-88703-18-8 (In Polish)
Internet: Booklet containing guidance on the use of hearing protectors. Contents: effects of exposure to noise; legislation on hearing protectors; types of hearing protectors; acoustic and technical characteristics of hearing protectors; methods for the selection of hearing protectors; recommendations applicable to the use of hearing protectors.
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CIS 03-886 Mechanical vibration and shock - Range of idealized values to characterize seated-body biodynamic response under vertical vibration. (French: Vibrations et chocs mécaniques - Enveloppes de valeurs probables caractérisant la réponse biodynamique d'individus assis soumis à des vibrations verticales)
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 2001. vi, 28p. Illus. 22 ref. (In English, French)
Internet: Indications that several conditions associated with feet and back support, posture, excitation amplitude and subject mass could have a significant influence on measured seated-body biodynamic response led to the conclusion that the definition of a range of idealized values would only be feasible if based on data sets known to have been determined under a well-defined and restricted range of similar conditions. This international standard defines a range of such idealized values for seated individuals. They may find applications in laboratory procedures for assessing vehicle seat performance and for predicting whole-body vibration exposure levels on platforms of mobile machinery.
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CIS 03-887 Acoustics - Methods for the description and physical measurement of single impulses or series of impulses. (French: Acoustique - Métrique et techniques pour le mesurage physique de bruits impulsionnels isolés ou en courtes rafales)
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1st ed., 1997. iv, 23p. Illus. 40 ref. (In English, French)
Internet: This international standard describes preferred methods for the characterization and the physical measurement of single impulsive sounds or short series of impulsive sounds, such as those produced by explosions, artillery fire, bombing or similar activities, sonic booms, pistol and rifle fire, and cartridge-operated tools and machines. It also describes the preferred methods for the presentation of data. Two different kinds of measurements are considered: phase-sensitive parameters that directly characterize the variation of sound pressure with time, and time-integrated quantities such as frequency-weighted sound exposure level or sound energy level.
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CIS 03-888 Acoustics - Measurement of the influence of road surfaces on traffic noise - Part 1: Statistical pass-by method. (French: Acoustique - Mesurage de l'influence des revêtements de chaussées sur le bruit émis par la circulation - Partie 1: Méthode statistique au passage)
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1st ed., 1997. iii, 27p. Illus. 5 ref. (In English, French)
Internet: Part one of the present international standard describes a method of comparing traffic noise on different road surfaces for various compositions of road traffic for the purpose of evaluating different road surface types. Sound levels representing either high or heavy vehicles at selected speeds are assigned to a certain road surface. The statistical pass-by method may be used to classify surfaces according to their influence on traffic noise, and to evaluate the influence of different surfaces on traffic noise. See also CIS 03-889.
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CIS 03-889 Characterization of pavement texture by use of surface profiles - Part 1: Determination of mean profile depth. (French: Caractérisation de la texture d'un revêtement de chaussée à partir de relevés de profil - Partie 1: Détermination de la profondeur moyenne de la texture)
International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1st ed., 1997. iii, 19p. Illus. 11 ref. (In English, French)
Internet: Part one of the present international standard describes a test method to determine the average depth of pavement surface macrotexture by measuring the profile curve of a surface and calculating the texture depth from this profile. The technique is designed to provide an average depth value of only the pavement macrotexture and is considered insensitive to pavement microtexture an unevenness characteristics. See also CIS 03-888.
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CIS 03-890 Selection, use and maintenance of portable monitoring instruments.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov 2001. 5p. 6 ref. (In English)
Internet: The Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999 (IRR99, see CIS 00-617) require employers to ensure that levels of ionizing radiation in controlled or supervised areas are adequately monitored. This information sheet aimed at employers gives guidance on the care and general maintenance of portable monitoring instruments and on the checks prior and after monitoring an area. Guidance on suitable monitoring instruments for different radiation sources and workplace applications are provided in tabular form.
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CIS 03-891 Control of radioactive substances.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov. 2001. 4p. 11 ref. (In English)
Internet: This information sheet aimed at users of radioactive substances who are subject to theIonising Radiations Regulations 1999 (IRR99, see CIS CIS 00-617) and the Radioactive Substances Act 1993 (RSA93) outlines some areas of similarity between these two regulations. Topics covered: scope of the legislation; notification, registration and authorization; management responsibilities; accounting for radioactive substances; routine checks on source location; leak tests; keeping, moving and transporting radioactive substances; shipment of radioactive substances between European Union countries; managing incidents.
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CIS 03-892 Radiation protection in the mining and milling of radioactive ores. (French: Radioprotection dans l'extraction et le traitement des minerais radioactifs; Spanish: Protección contra las radiaciones en la extracción y el tratamiento de minerales radioactivos)
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1968. vi, 108p. 16 ref. Index. (In English, French, Spanish)
Internet: This document contains two texts. The first consist of a code of practice aimed at protection against ionizing radiation for workers engaged in the mining and milling of radioactive ores. It covers the following topics: general provisions; radiation surveillance; medical surveillance; protective measures and equipment for the control of radioactive dusts and gases. The second text is a technical addendum providing technical information which may be helpful in the application of control measures.
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CIS 03-893 Workroom temperatures in places where food is handled.
Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Jan. 2002. 4p. 6 ref. (In English)
Internet: There is a potential conflict in the food industry between the maximum permissible temperatures during food processing, packaging, storage and transport on one hand, and the minimum temperatures necessary for employee comfort and health. This information sheet explains how the requirements of both food hygiene laws and occupational safety and health laws can be achieved with respect to workroom temperatures. Safety and health requirements can be met by: maintaining a reasonable temperature (at least 16°C) and chilling the food locally; providing a warm workstation within a room where the overall temperature may be lower; or keeping the individual warm by means of suitable clothing, heated rest facilities or minimizing length of time of exposure to uncomfortable temperatures. Replaces CIS 95-1114.
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CIS 03-894 Effects of the physical work environment on workers: Psychophysiological, subjective and behavioural responses. (Spanish: Efectos del ambiente físico de trabajo sobre las personas: respuestas psicofisiológicas, subjetivas y de comportamiento)
Sebastián García O., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1999. 79p. Illus. 68 ref., ISBN 84-7425-548-1 (In Spanish)
Internet: This document provides information on the subjective and short- and long term psychophysiological effects of various physical agents (noise, vibration, lighting, colours, thermal conditions) in the work environment as well as on their effects on behaviour and productivity.
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CIS 03-895 Resources on noise control.
Ministry of Manpower, Occupational Health Department, 18 Havelock Road #05-01, Singapore 059764, Republic of Singapore, 2002. CD-ROM containing documents in PDF format. (In English)
Internet: This CD-ROM contains a collection of documents on noise control. Contents: hearing conservation programme guidelines; successful noise control case studies; noise control incentives and awards; application forms for noise control awards for excellence, merit and innovation; tax relief for noise control investments; list of service providers (consultants for noise control, noise emission testing and noise monitoring; organizations conducting hearing conservation programmes; approved training programmes for noise control and monitoring; audiometry clinics); OSH training directory 2002; leaflet on noise control regulations; proceedings of a seminar on noise control.
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CIS 03-896 Safety shoes - PPEs that are the fruit of technological progress. (Spanish: Calzado de seguridad - Un E.P.I. fruto del progreso tecnológico)
Prevención, Jan.-Mar. 2003, No.163, p.36-47. Illus. (In Spanish)
Internet: Thanks to technological progress, it is now possible to manufacture safety shoes that are very similar in appearance to regular shoes while maintaining their protection characteristics. Following a brief overview of the main elements of the shoe that provide protection and a reference to sectors of activity where the wearing of safety shoes is essential, this article goes on to describe the various tests that safety shoes have to undergo, including: raw material tests (leather, laces, textile materials, soles, safety toe tips); tests during manufacture (soles) and tests on the finished shoe.
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CIS 03-897 New Zealand forestry workers: Limitations to the effectiveness of protective clothing/equipment.
Laing R., Niven B., Holland E., Webster J., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2002, Vol.18, No.1, p.85-96. Illus. 31 ref. (In English)
Internet: A sample of 377 New Zealand forestry workers was studied to clarify the way in which selected items of protective clothing and equipment were effective in preventing injuries, and to identify factors which might limit the safety enhancement when wearing such items. Participants were given a questionnaire on their protective clothing practices and whether they had been victims of injuries or near-miss events during the previous 12 months. An injury or near-miss event had been experienced by 45% of the study sample. Common outcomes were lacerations and sprains, caused by chainsaws, machinery, falling trees and slips. Injury to the upper extremities accounted for 40%, the back torso for 20% and the limbs and feet for 20% of the injuries. The difference between those injured and those not injured relate to some aspects of the protective clothing or equipment which are discussed in the article.
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CIS 03-898 Construction work practices and conditions improved after 2-years' participation in the HomeSafe pilot program.
Gilkey D.P., Hautaluoma J.E., Ahmed T.P., Keefe T.J., Herron R.E., Bigelow P.L., AIHA Journal, May-June 2003, Vol.64, No.3, p.346-351. 23 ref. (In English)
Internet: The objective of this study was to determine whether the number of years spent in the "HomeSafe Program", a safety programme for residential home builders in the state of Colorado, made any difference in the performance of participating companies' safety audit scores. Audits were conducted on residential construction sites. Study subjects were construction workers employed by participating or control companies within the study. Measures of 41 companies showed significant improvement in audit scores, increasing from 71.8 to 76.8 after 2 1/2 years in the program. HomeSafe companies outperformed controls for both the group having been audited 2 1/2 years previously and for previously unaudited HomeSafe companies. Prolonged exposure in the HomeSafe pilot programme resulted in improved audit scores for companies within the programme for at least two years.
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CIS 03-899 Geographic patterns of pilot fatality rates in commuter and air taxi crashes.
Grabowski J.G., Curriero F.C., Baker S.P., Li G., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2002, Vol.73, No.10, p.1014-1020. Illus. 15 ref. (In English)
Internet: This study examines the geographic patterns of pilot fatality rates in commuter and air taxi operations. Accident data recorded by the National Transportation Safety Board were used to create a digital map of all crash sites in the continental United States between 1983 and 1998. Fatality rates in crashes were calculated and then interpolated to create a contoured map. Areas were then compared for pilot characteristics, airplane characteristics, and crash circumstance. Of the 1094 crashes studied, 25% resulted in a pilot fatality. A large geographic area with a pilot fatality rate of ≥36% extended through portions of Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois. A relatively low fatality rate (<15%) prevailed over an area extending from Texas to northwest Georgia. Crashes in high-rate areas were significantly more likely than crashes elsewhere to have occurred at night and during instrument flying conditions.
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CIS 03-900 Computer-intensive methods in traffic safety research.
Stanislaw H., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2002, Vol.8, No.3, p.353-363. Illus. 10 ref. (In English)
Internet: The analysis of traffic safety data archives has been markedly facilitated by the development of procedures that are heavily dependent on computers. Three such procedures are described in this article: the first involves using computers to assist in the identification and correction of invalid data; the second makes greater computational demands, and involves using computerized algorithms to fill in the "gaps" that typically occur in archival data when information regarding key variables is not available; finally, the third and most computer-intensive procedure involves using data mining techniques to search archives for interesting and important relationships between variables. These procedures are illustrated using examples from data archives that describe the characteristics of traffic accidents in the USA and Australia.
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CIS 03-901 Prevention of falls on the level in occupational risk situations: A major issue, a risk to be managed.
Leclercq S., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2002, Vol.8, No.3, p.377-385. 25 ref. (In English)
Internet: The terminology used to designate falls on the level is very broad. Consequently, accident descriptions are generally not explicit enough. This article firstly proposes to define falls on the level in occupational situations, and discusses the issue of the designing preventive strategies on the basis of the analysis of accident statistics. Next, the article discusses the risk factors for loss of balance in occupational situations. These factors are associated with individuals, their tasks, the equipment used, or the working environment. The diversity of accident contexts and different prevention possibilities are highlighted and discussed.
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CIS 03-902 Modelling of a forklift truck and driver system for improving safety during lateral roll-overs. (French: Modélisation d'un chariot élévateur et de son cariste pour améliorer la sécurité lors de renversements latéraux)
Gou M., Aubin C.E., Olteanu M., Benoît R., Houtchouk M., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 3C2, Canada, Jan. 2003. 40p. Illus. 18 ref. CD-ROM containing the PDF version of the document is included (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)., ISBN 2-551-21702-4 (In French)
Internet: This report describes the development of a software tool named "CARISSIMO" for the design of forklift trucks, in particular with respect to their roll-over safety. Various safety systems (two-point lap safety belts, harnesses, armrests and doors) and rollover conditions (at high and low speed) were simulated. Both static and dynamic simulations show that the model predictions are realistic and in line with accident data in published literature. According to the model, the type of floor has little influence on driver injuries, while safety systems are of key importance; the most efficient combination appears to be a lap safety belt, a harness and doors.
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CIS 03-903 Methods for optimising the effectiveness of roll-over protective systems.
Stockton A.D., O'Neill D.H., Hampson C.J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. iv, 124p. Illus. 30 ref. Price: GBP 30.00., ISBN 0-7176-2330-0 (In English)
Internet: This report discusses the evolution of roll-over protective system (ROPS) standards and analyses their current application. In the last 40 years, more than 50 ROPS standards have been developed for different machine types in different sectors. In the last decade, there has been a major expansion in the market of dedicated equipment, particularly in ride-on lawnmowers and sweepers. In general, this equipment tends to be small and is not well served by existing ROPS standards. Through the analysis of a survey, the report also discusses the scope for computerizing the design and testing of ROPS and considers what alternative methods of protecting operators from roll-over hazards may be emerging. Recommendations are made for re-packaging and rationalizing ROPS standards and, thereby, ensuring their appropriateness for use with contemporary machine concepts and the anticipated needs of the industry in the 21st century.
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CIS 03-904 Safe and error-tolerant controls: Development of safety-oriented systems. (German: Sichere und fehlertolerante Steuerungen: Entwicklung sicherheitsrelevanter Systeme)
Montenegro S., Carl Hanser Verlag, München, Germany, 1999. vii, 188p. Illus. 113 ref. Index. Price: EUR 44.90. Includes a CD-ROM., ISBN 3-446-21235-3 (In German)
Internet: Accidents caused by machinery may have serious consequences for the owner or the manufacturer. Aimed at manufacturers and designers of machinery, this publication proposes simple and effective solutions for equipping machinery with fault-tolerant controls. Main topics addressed: design of safe control systems; identification and control of hazards; safety and fault-tolerance of systems during machinery use; systematic approach to design; solving of problems due to design errors. A CD-ROM containing the publication in PDF format is included.
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CIS 03-905 Guard interlocking for self-propelled harvesting machinery.
Scarlett A.J., Price J.S., Meeks I.R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. viii, 23p. Illus. 9 ref. Price: GBP 10.00., ISBN 0-7176-2373-4 (In English)
Internet: Recent agricu |