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ILO-CIS Bulletin 2005/03CIS 05-501 --- CIS 05-750Laws, regulations, directivesCIS 05-501 Working Conditions Decree [Netherlands]. (Dutch: Arbeidsomstandighedenbesluit) Staatsblad van het Koninkrijk der Nederlanden, 25 Feb. 1997, No.60, p.1-118. (In Dutch, English) Internet: This Decree was issued on 15 Jan. 1997. Contents: definitions and scope of application; OSH management and work organization; arrangement of the workplace; dangerous substances and biological agents; physical workload; physical hazards; work equipment and specific occupations; personal protective equipment and danger signs; obligations, penalties, transitional and final provisions. A large number of decrees related to OSH are repealed, the most important of which are: the Decree on Safety in Factories and Workplaces (1938); the Decree on Electrical Safety (1938); the Agricultural Workers Safety and Health Decree. The English translation (unofficial) reflects the decree as it was on 23 Aug. 2000. (104453)
CIS 05-502 Working Conditions Regulations [Netherlands]. (Dutch: Arbeidsomstandighedenregeling) Internet document, 1997-. Illus. (In Dutch) Internet: Regulations (dated 12 Mar. 1997) issued in accordance with the Working Conditions Act (see CIS 01-2) and the Working Conditions Decree (see CIS 05-501). Contents: general provisions; risk assessment and evaluation of OSH services; OSH in the construction and extraction industries; hazardous materials; working with VDUs; working in high-pressure environments; work equipment; safety and health signals. (104454)
Chemical data sheets and criteria documentsCIS 05-503 4-Aminobiphenyl. (Polish: Bifenylo-4-amina) Starek A., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.5-23. Illus. 78 ref. (In Polish) Internet: 4-Aminobiphenyl is used in the rubber industry as an antioxidant and in the synthesis of azo dyes. It has a relatively low toxicity but is highly genotoxic and carcinogenic. The oral LD50 values for this compound in rodents range from 205 to 500mg/kg. 4-Aminobiphenyl and its metabolite N-hydroxy-4-aminobiphenyl demonstrate the ability to induce gene mutations in bacterial tests. This and other metabolites produce adducts with the DNA and RNA of bladder epithelial cells. The carcinogenic potential of 4-aminobiphenyl has been evidenced in some animal species and in humans. The substance induces bladder tumours. A threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 0.001mg/m3 is proposed. (104251)
CIS 05-504 Ethylenediamine. (Polish: Etylenodiamina) Sapota A., Ligocka D., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.25-35. 20 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Ethylenediamine is used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of chelating compounds, fungicides, synthetic waxes, polyamide resins and anticorrosive agents and as an emulsifier and rubber stabilizer. In humans, ethylenediamine demonstrates moderate to strong irritation of the nasal mucosa. Ethylenediamine vapours are irritating to the eyes, mucosa and respiratory tract of experimental animals. No harmful effects were observed at a concentration of 147.5mg/m3, which is assumed to be the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL). In animal experiments, no carcinogenic, teratogenic or embryotoxic activity was found nor any effects on reproduction. The suggested threshold limit value (time-weighted average) is 20mg/m3. Because of the strong the irritating action of ethylenediamine, it is suggested that the short-term exposure limit value be set at 50mg/m3. Since the LD50 value through skin exposure is lower than 1000mg/kg, it is suggested that the skin absorption symbol "Sk" be added. (104252)
CIS 05-505 2-Heptanone. (Polish: Heptan-2-on) Kupczewska-Dobecka M., Dobecki M., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.39-54. 32 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Heptanone is used as a flavour or fragrance in the food, detergents and cosmetics industries and as a solvent for varnishes, nitrocellulose, oils, resins and polymers. The oral LD50 in rats was found to be 1670mg/kg. Heptanone vapours and aerosols are irritating to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Effects on the central nervous system and respiratory tract occur at high concentrations. The concentration at which heptanone begins to produce ocular or upper respiratory tract irritation in humans is not known. For heptanone, the Polish Expert Group for Chemical Agents recommends a threshold limit value of 240mg/m3 (time-weighted average), while the recommended short-term exposure limit value is twice that of the time-weighted average value, namely 480mg/m3, in consideration of the irritative effects of the substance. (104253)
CIS 05-506 3-Heptanone. (Polish: Heptan-3-on) Sapota A., Kilanowicz A., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.55-67. 25 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Long-term occupational exposure to 3-heptanone causes a slight irritation of the skin, although the substance does not appear to demonstrate allergic activity. Animal experiments indicate neurotoxic effects following a 6-hour inhalation exposure to a concentration of 14010mg/m3. After a 24-week exposure to a concentration of 3269mg/m3, no neurotoxic, irritative or organ toxicity effects were observed in rats. This concentration was accepted as a lowest-observed-adverse-effect-level. However, a statistically significant decrease of leucocytes (60%) was observed in the investigated animals compared to the control group. This resulted in a calculated threshold limit value of 102.2mg/m3, which is only slightly greater than that accepted in the European Union (95 mg/m3). It is therefore suggested that the same threshold value as that in force in the EU be accepted. There is no basis for establishing short-term exposure limit values or biological exposure indices for 3-heptonone. (104254)
CIS 05-507 4-Heptanone. (Polish: Heptan-4-on) Kupczewska-Dobecka M., Dobecki M., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.69-78. 12 ref. (In Polish) Internet: The acute toxicity of 4-heptanone in laboratory animals is low by all routes of administration. The value of LC50 for 6-hour inhalation by rats is 12535mg/m3. The dermal LD5l0 for rabbits is 4624mg/kg, and the oral LD5l0 for rats is 3047mg/kg. The vapours and aerosols are irritating to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Effects on the central nervous system and the respiratory tract occur at high concentrations. A threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 230mg/m3 is recommended for 4-heptanone, based on its irritative effects. There are currently insufficient data to provide a sound scientific basis for defining short-term exposure limit values. (104255)
CIS 05-508 3-Methyl-1-butanol. (Polish: 3-Metylobutan-1-ol) Konieczko K., Czerczak S., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.79-98. 41 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Animal experiments show isoamyl alcohol (3-methyl-1-butanol) to be an irritant to mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and eyes. Exposure to isoamyl alcohol can produce corneal damage. Following exposure at high concentrations, it produced narcosis. Human volunteers complained of slight throat irritation at 360mg/m3 and of ocular and upper respiratory tract irritation after exposure at 540mg/m3 for three to five minutes. Based on these human data, the Polish Expert Group for Chemical Agents established a threshold limit value (8-hour time-weighted average) of 200mg/m3, and a short-term exposure limit value of 400mg/m3. (104256)
CIS 05-509 5-Methyl-2-hexanone. (Polish: 5-Metyloheksan-2-on) Sapota A., Kilanowicz A., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.99-109. 20 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Occupational exposure to 5-methyl-2-hexanone (methyl isoamyl ketone) occurs through inhalation and dermal contact during production and use of this compound. There are no available data concerning toxic effects in humans. In laboratory animals, it shows a weak irritating action on the skin and eyes and irritating activity on the respiratory tract, the RD50 value for mice being 5695mg/m3. In a long-term experiment on rats, no harmful effects were observed at a concentration of 923mg/m3, which is taken as the no observed adverse effect level. There are indications of nephrotoxic and hepatotoxic effects. The calculated threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 116.5mg/m3 is only slightly greater than the corresponding value accepted in the European Union (95mg/m3). Thus, it is suggested that this latter value be accepted. (104257)
CIS 05-510 5-Methyl-3-heptanone. (Polish: 5-Metyloheptan-3-on) Czerczak S., Pakulska D., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.111-121. 20 ref. (In Polish) Internet: 5-Methyl-3-heptanone is used as a solvent for nitrocellulose-alkyd, nitrocellulose-maleic and vinyl resins. The oral LD50 for rats is 3500mg/kg. Vapours and aerosols are irritating to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Neurotoxic effects occur at high concentrations. No incidents of illness caused by industrial handling of 5-methyl-3-heptanone have been reported. Humans exposed to concentrations of 130mg/m3 experienced irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract and reported a strong odour. At a concentration of 524mg/m3, irritation of mucous membranes, headache, and nausea were too severe to tolerate for more than a few minutes. The Polish Expert Group for Chemical Agents recommends a threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 50mg/m3 for 5-methyl-3-heptanone. Based on the irritative effects of the substance, a short-term exposure limit value of 100mg/m3 is recommended. (104258)
CIS 05-511 Pyrethrins. (Polish: Pyretryny) Soćko R., Czerczak S., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.123-136. 38 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Pyrethrum is a powdered botanical insecticide made from dried Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium, while the term "pyrethrins" refers to the insecticide components occurring naturally in the powder. Pyrethrins are used in household sprays for a wide range of insects, in veterinary flea powders for domestic animals and for the control of head lice. Pyrethrin poisonings are sporadic, because natural pyrethrins induce hepatic microsomal enzymes and are rapidly detoxified. NIOSH established an Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) value for pyrethrins of 5000mg/m3. Pyrethrins cause inflammation and sensitization of the skin and respiratory tract. Ingestion of large doses can induce convulsions, vomiting, and bradycardia. Effects in animals include liver damage and death through respiratory failure. A proposed threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 5mg/m3 is proposed. (104259)
CIS 05-512 Trimethylamine. (Polish: Trimetyloamina) Kupczewska-Dobecka M., Czerczak S., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.137-154. 30 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Trimethylamine is used in pest control, as an olfactory warning agent against natural gas leaks, as a flotation agent and as an intermediate in chemical synthesis. It is a skin and eye irritant. Concentrated aqueous solutions applied to human skin have caused severe burning and hyperaemia. Long-term exposure to trimethylamine vapours at a concentration of 48.5mg/m3 caused nasal, eye and skin irritation, while exposure at concentrations of 0.24-19.5mg/m3 produced no observable irritation. Based on these human data, the Polish Expert Group for Chemical Agents established a threshold limit value (8-hour time-weighted average) of 12mg/m3 and a short-term exposure limit value of 24mg/m3. (104260)
CIS 05-513 3,5,5-Trimethylcyclohex-2-enone. (Polish: 3,5,5-Trimetylocykloheks-2-en-1-on) Sapota A., Ligocka D., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.31, No.1, p.155-166. 16 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Isophorone (3,5,5-Trimethylcyclohex-2-enone) is used as a solvent for various natural and synthetic polymers, resins, paints, inks, waxes, fats, oils, pesticides and herbicides. It is also a chemical intermediate used in synthesis. There are many reports in the literature concerning the irritating action of isophorone on the upper airways, eyes and mucous membranes in both in humans and animals. Its effects on the central nervous system in humans may be regarded as critical. The RD50 value of 157mg/m3 determined in investigations on mice was accepted as the basis for the threshold limit value (TLV) (time-weighted average), for which calculations resulted in a value of 5.23mg/m3. It is suggested that the TLV be left at the current level of 5mg/m3, which should ensure the prevention of upper airways and eye irritation among exposed workers. Because of its irritant nature, a short-term exposure limit of 10 mg/m3 is suggested. (104261)
CIS 05-514 Cyclohexanol. (Polish: Cykloheksanol) Piotrowski J., Szymańska J., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.5-20. 39 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Cyclohexanol is mostly used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of adipic acid. Information on the toxicity of cyclohexanol in humans is fragmentary. Acute exposures are characterized by irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Among workers of a caprolactam-producing plant exposed by inhalation for a long period, nonspecific disorders of the autonomic nervous system were observed. The proposed maximum admissible concentration for cyclohexanol is based on the toxic effects on the male reproduction system in experimental animals, which is considered to be the critical effect. In the present document, the proposed threshold limit value (time-weighted average) for cyclohexanol is set at 10mg/m3. (104262)
CIS 05-515 Cyclohexanone. (Polish: Cykloheksanon) Piotrowski J., Orłowski C., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.21-36. 27 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Cyclohexanone is primarily used as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of nylon. Information on the toxicity of this substance in humans is fragmentary. Acute exposure is characterized by irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. In two exposed persons, drowsiness and renal impairment were found. However these workers were also exposed to other compounds. Hepatic disorders were found in a group of workers exposed for over five years. The proposed threshold limit value for cyclohexanone is based on the effects on reproduction. In female rats, following inhalation exposure at a concentration of 2600mg/m3 during the 9th to 16th day of pregnancy, a reduction of body weight was found in both the mother and the foetus. This concentration was accepted as being the lowest observed adverse effect level. The threshold limit value (time-weighted average) calculated on this basis is 40mg/m3, and the proposed short-term exposure limit is set at 80mg/m3. (104263)
CIS 05-516 Cyclohexene. (Polish: Cykloheksen) Sapota A., Ligocka D., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.41-47. 11 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Cyclohexene is mainly used in synthesis as an alkylating agent and as a solvent of catalysts during oil extraction. According to the European Union classification, cyclohexene belongs to the group of harmful compounds. There are only sparse data concerning the toxicity of cyclohexene in experimental animals, and a lack of data on its human toxicity. The results of a 6-month inhalation exposure tests on rats, guinea pigs and rabbits were used as the basis for determining the threshold limit values (time-weighted average). Among rats exposed to a concentration of 2010mg/m3, there was a significant decrease of body mass in comparison with the control group. This effect was not observed at lower concentrations. No effects were observed in other animal species subjected to the same experiment. Consequently, it is recommended that the current threshold limit (time-weighted average) and short-term exposure limit values of 300 mg/m3 and 900mg/m3 respectively should remain without change. (104264)
CIS 05-517 Diquat dibromide. (Polish: Dikwatu dibromek) Starek A., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.51-65. 31 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Diquat is a non-selective herbicide mainly used in the form of its soluble dibromide salt, commonly also referred to as "diquat". Ingestion of diquat leads to severe lesions of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and liver. This intoxication usually leads to death. The exposure to diquat aerosols may lead to irritation of nasal mucosa and upper airways. The acute toxicity of diquat for laboratory animals is relatively high by all routes of administration. Diquat is possibly also mutagenic and foetotoxic, and may exert a negative effect on the development of offspring. No carcinogenic effects have been reported. The recommended maximum exposure limit of 0.1mg/m3 is based on no observed adverse effect levels (NOAEL) and lowest observed adverse effect levels (LOAEL) derived from long-term studies on rats. The proposed short-term exposure limit value of 0.3mg/m3 is based on the irritant effects of the substance. (104265)
CIS 05-518 Dimethoate. (Polish: Dimetoat) Sapota A., Skrzypińska-Gawrysiak M., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.67-92. Illus. 94 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Dimethoate is used as an insecticide to fight against numerous insects and acarids on crops. The most frequent symptoms of dimethoate poisoning are inhibitions of cholinesterase activity of the brain, plasma and enrythrocytes and symptoms characteristic for poisoning with organophosphorus compounds. In experiments on volunteers, a dimethoate dose of 0.2mg/kg administered daily for 39 days did not result in any significant biological changes (NOAEL), but when administered at 0.43mg/kg, it resulted in decreased plasma ChE by 24% (LOAEL). Based on these findings, a threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 0.2mg/m3 was proposed for dimethoate in workplace air, with a short-term exposure limit value of 0.6mg/m3. In accordance with WHO recommendations, a biological exposure index that decreases AChE activity to 70% of its initial activity should be determined. (104266)
CIS 05-519 N,N-Dimethylaniline. (Polish: N,N-Dimetyloanilina) Starek A., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.103-116. 30 ref. (In Polish) Internet: N,N-Dimethylaniline (DMA) is used as a solvent and chemical intermediate for organic synthesis. Exposure to this compound in industry is poorly documented. Experimental exposure to DMA in both humans and laboratory animals resulted in the following haematotoxic effects: symptoms of cyanosis; spleen enlargement; methaemoglobinaemia; extra marrow haematopoesis. DMA is clastogenic. However, carcinogenic, embryotoxic and teratogenic effects have not been confirmed. Based on the haematotoxic effects observed on rats administered DMA intragastrically, a LOAEL value of 31.25mg/m3 was determined, from which a threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 12mg/m3 was derived, and a short-term exposure limit value of 40mg/m3 was proposed. Furthermore, a methaemoglobin concentration of 2% in peripheral blood was proposed as a biological exposure index value. (104267)
CIS 05-520 4'-Ethoxyacetanilide. (Polish: 4'-Etoksyacetanilid) Piotrowski J., Szymańska J., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.119-137. 37 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Phenacetin (4'-ethoxyacetanilide) is mainly used as analgesic and antipyretic. Acute intoxications are characterized by skin eruptions, methaemoglobinaemia, haemolytic anaemia, headache, dizziness and the necrosis of renal mammilla. Consumption of phenacetin in high doses (at least 1g/day) for extended periods results in renal insufficiency. Epidemiological studies indicate that nephropathies caused by analgesics represent 1-20% of all nephropathies. Necrosis of the kidneys may result in renal cancer. On the basis of epidemiological data, the short-tem exposure limit value was set at 5mg/m3 for phenacetin dust. (104268)
CIS 05-521 Propionic acid. (Polish: Kwas propionowy) Rolecki R., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.139-155. Illus. 28 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Propionic acid and its sodium and calcium salts are used mainly as fungicides, antimoulding agents, and grain and wood preservatives. There are no reports concerning effects of acute or chronic exposure to propionic acid. Limited experimental data suggest that propionic acid and its sodium and calcium salts have low overall toxicity. However, propionic acid has been found to be an irritant. Taking into account the value of RD50 of 1161mg/m3 for mice, a threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 30mg/m3 and a short-term exposure limit value of 45 mg/m3 have been recommended, the latter value being in consideration of the irritant nature of the substance. (104269)
CIS 05-522 Ozone. (Polish: Ozon) Piotrowski J.K., Szymańska J., Frydrych B., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.157-193. 41 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Welding and the manufacture of hydrogen peroxide are the most important sources of exposure to ozone in industry. From studies in humans, the first effects of short-term exposure to ozone are respiratory symptoms. The lowering of FEV1 was found at concentrations exceeding 0.6mg/m3. However when exposure to ozone was conducted jointly with physical strain (ergometric exercises), functional respiratory effects were observed at a concentration of 0.16mg/m3. On the basis of current knowledge, it is proposed to increase the maximum allowable concentration (time-weighted average) of ozone in Poland from 0.1 to 0.15mg/m3. (104270)
CIS 05-523 Potassium persulfate dust. (Polish: Peroksodisiarczan(VI) potasu-pyły) Skowroń J., Puchalska H., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.195-205. 18 ref. (In Polish) Internet: The main routes of occupational exposure for potassium persulfate are inhalation and skin absorption. Frequent skin rashes, causing both irritant dermatitis and hypersensitivity reactions, were found in workers producing potassium persulfate. Cases of asthma following occupational exposure to persulfates have been reported in hairdressers. Despite the absence of toxicity study data, potassium persulfate is expected to be as irritating as ammonium persulfate. Consequently, a study on rats exposed to up to 21mg/m3 of ammonium persulfate for seven days is the basis of the occupational limit. Rats exposed to 4mg/m3 of ammonium persulfate exhibited symptoms of lung inflammation and/or oedema and loss of body weight. These effects were not significant at exposures of 1mg/m3, which was adopted as the no observed adverse effect level value. Given these data, the threshold limit value (time-weighted average) was calculated to be 0.1mg/m3. No short-term exposure limit value has been determined. (104271)
CIS 05-524 Osmium tetroxide. (Polish: Tetratlenek osmu) Piotrowski J., Orłowski C., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2002, Vol.33, No.3, p.207-215. 10 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Osmium tetroxide is used for staining biological preparations for electron microscopy, in photography, as an organic synthesis catalyst and in the treatment of rheumatic diseases. Following acute exposure of humans, strong irritation of the eyes and respiratory system was observed, as well as visual disorders. In men occupationally exposed to osmium tetroxide at concentrations of 0.133-0.640mg/m3 (measured as osmium) for a time span ranging from 1.5 to 23 years, a characteristic symptom was the appearance of aureola around light sources. Other symptoms included eye irritation, reading difficulties and headache. No changes were observed in the biochemical parameters of blood and urine. The existing data are not sufficient for independent evaluation. Consequently the values accepted in most countries, namely 0.002mg/m3 (threshold limit value - TWA) and 0.006mg/m3 (short-term exposure level), expressed as osmium, are recommended. (104272)
CIS 05-525 Benzene. (Polish: Benzen) Lebrecht G., Czerczak S., Szymczak W., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2003, Vol.35, No.1, p.5-60. 175 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Leukaemia is the main effect of long-term occupational exposure to benzene. The lifetime risk of leukaemia attributable to inhalation exposure at concentrations of 1.6mg/m3 was assessed from the results of epidemiological studies. Maximum concentrations considered acceptable for occupational exposure to benzene ranged from 6.6x10-4 to 1.4x10-3. Using these data, the Polish Expert Group for Chemical Agents established an 8-hour threshold limit value (time-weighted average) of 1.6mg/m3. There are no bases for establishing benzene short-term exposure limit values. The Expert Group also recommended biological exposure indices of 25µg S-phenylmercapturic acid per g creatinine in urine and 500µg trans, trans muconic acid per g creatinine in urine. (104273)
CIS 05-526 N,N-Dimethylformamide. (Polish: N,N-Dimetyloformamid) Sapota A., Ligocka D., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2003, Vol.35, No.1, p.61-82. Illus. 73 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Dimethylformamide (DMF) is used mainly as a solvent in the production of polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylonitrile and various fibres and coatings. Animal experiments show DMF to be hepatotoxic at high doses. DMF vapours are absorbed in the airways and through the skin. In experimental studies on volunteers, DMF retention in the lungs was about 90%. Liquid DMF applied to the skin is rapidly absorbed and the absorption coefficient determined in humans is 9mg/cm2/h. Systemic activity on the liver is considered to be the critical effect. To determine a threshold limit value, the NOAEL value of 75mg/m3 established for inhalation exposure in rats was used. Taking the above findings into account, it is proposed that the current threshold limit value of 10mg/m3 for DMF be retained. (104274)
CIS 05-527 Phenol. (Polish: Fenol) Jakubowski M., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2003, Vol.35, No.1, p.87-113. Illus. 78 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Phenol is used primarily as a feedstock for phenolic resins, caprolactam, xylenols and aniline. The substance is readily absorbed by all routes of exposure. The retention of phenol vapours in the lungs is about 60-80%. The rate of penetration through the skin ranges from 0.08 to 0.3mg/cm2/h. The half-time of excretion of phenol in urine after inhalation exposure is 3.5h. Solutions of phenol are corrosive to the skin and eyes; phenol vapours can irritate the respiratory tract. An RD50 of 624mg/m3 has been reported in mice. Evidence for the carcinogenicity of phenol in laboratory animals was considered by the IARC to be insufficient. Time-weighted average occupational exposure limits vary in different countries between 4 and 19mg/m3. Based on the NOAEL value obtained from an inhalation study in rats, a time-weighted average value of 7.8mg/m3 was proposed. No short-term exposure limit value has been proposed. (104275)
Training materials and practical informationCIS 05-528 Barefoot research: A workers' manual for organising on work security. (Turkish: Çiplakayaklı araştırma: İş güvenliğini düzenlemek icin işçi el kitabı) Keith M., Brophy J., Kirby P., Rosskam E., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. 93p. Illus. 105 ref., ISBN 975-6984-57-0 (In Turkish) Internet: Turkish translation of the manual analyzed under CIS 01-1367. This practical manual was developed to help workers increase their level of control over their own work conditions, including the protection of their health and well-being, and their level of basic security. Contents: purpose of "barefoot research"; research tools (definition of goals, inspections by workers, surveys, small group discussions, mapping, interviews, observation, use and interpretation of information); taking action (using and sharing the results of "barefoot research", agreeing on action with workers, getting things done, gaining a voice). (104310)
CIS 05-529 Port safety and health audit manual. Roos H.J., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. 232p. Illus. 18 ref., ISBN 92-2-117035-7 (In English) Internet: The aim of this manual is to help appointed independent and trained auditors in the following areas: to identify strengths, weaknesses and gaps in national and port regulations and policies with regard to safety and health, enforcement, monitoring and reporting, facilities and services, and human resource training and development; to complete a comprehensive audit report, detailing any non-conformities detected; and to prepare a proposed action plan for the management to rectify detected nonconformities. An audit checklist is provided for each of three ILO instruments: the Occupational Safety and Health (Dock Work) Convention, 1979, the Occupational Safety and Health (Dock Work) Recommendation, 1979 and the ILO Code of Practice on Safety and Health in Ports (2005). (104481)
CIS 05-530 Well-being in the office! - Occupational safety and health in office work. (German: Wohlbefinden im Büro! - Arbeits- und Gesundheitsschutz bei der Büroarbeit) Beermann B., Henke N., Brenscheidt F., Windel A., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 30p. Illus. 19 ref., ISBN 3-89701-784-9 (In German) Internet: This booklet provides guidance and proposes basic rules for improving well-being during office work. Details of current regulations are provided, together with a short list of suggested further reading. Topics covered include: work organization (varied work, group work, shift work); sitting posture and ergonomics; lighting (lighting intensity, reflections, visual fatigue); conditions conducive to concentration (noise levels, thermal environment, sick building syndrome); work at screens; advantages of having green plants in the office. (104357)
CIS 05-531 Drug and alcohol abuse prevention programmes in the maritime industry (a manual for planners) (revised). ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. vi, 61p. Illus., ISBN 92-2-112372-3 (In English) Internet: The objective of this manual is to contribute to the reduction of health and safety problems related to the use of drugs and alcohol in the maritime industry through the promotion of awareness and education. It provides the background and practical information necessary to develop, implement and evaluate comprehensive prevention programmes. Contents: drugs and alcohol in the workplace and in the maritime industry; responsibilities; components of a comprehensive substance abuse prevention programme. Appendices include sample workplace drug and alcohol policies and ILO and WHO guidelines on drug and alcohol testing and screening examinations for seafarers. (104487)
Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisualsCIS 05-532 Virtual reality and occupational safety and health - Contributions and trends. (French: Réalité virtuelle et prévention - Apports et tendances) Ciccotelli J., Marsot J., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.199, p.99-111. Illus. 42 ref. (In French) Internet: Virtual reality (VR) has potential practical applications in various sectors such as medicine, industry, architecture and engineering. This article provides a definition of VR and examines several examples of industrial applications that illustrate the links between VR and the prevention of occupational hazards. In this field, INRS has launched a research project focusing on the design of safe equipment and on occupational safety and health training. The current status of this project is described, together with the practical benefits it is expected to deliver. Ethical issues relating to the use of VR systems are also addressed. (104430)
CIS 05-533 Industry statistics 2003. (French: Statistiques technologiques 2003) Bastide J.C., Travail et sécurité, July-Aug. 2005, No.653, p.38-43. Illus. (In French) Internet: Summary of occupational accidents and diseases in France. In 2003, the number of accidents involving a loss in work time declined by 5.1% and commuting accidents by 7.5%. The number of serious accidents increased by 3.8%. The number of first instances of occupational disease that are compensated continues to increase and showed a 10.1% gain compared to 2002. Tables present the key occupational accident and disease statistics by main occupational sector. Periarticular disorders constitute 68% of the almost 35,000 cases of occupational disease, followed by diseases caused by exposure to asbestos dust (14%). (104431)
CIS 05-534 The problem of safety culture in the education system. (Polish: Zagadnienie kultury bezpieczeństwa w systemie oświaty) Kędzia B.B., Świder K., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, Jan. 2003, No.1, p.6-7. (In Polish) Internet: This article discusses the first stage of creating a syllabus and modern didactic aids to enable the implementation of education in occupational safety and health and ergonomics at all levels of the national system of education in Poland. (104277)
CIS 05-535 Integrated safety in the design of buildings and equipment. (Spanish: Prevención integral en el diseño de edificios e instalaciones) Martínez García F., Mapfre seguridad, 1st Quarter 2005, Vol.25, No.97, p.15-27. Illus. 11 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: The implementation of an industrial project involves various phases: overall project conception, design, construction, start-up and operation. The integrated safety of the project implies the protection of all persons involved against all forms of natural, antisocial and technological hazards. This article describes the preventive measures to be taken into consideration during the design phase. Contents: process of taking occupational safety and health into consideration during the design phase; prevention of occupational hazards; safety measures against fire hazards; precautions against intrusions or antisocial acts; protection against natural hazards; protection of ambient conditions; economic aspects. (104317)
CIS 05-536 Private - public partnership in HSE. Parekh D.T., Industrial Safety Chronicle, Jan.-March 2003, Vol.XXXIII, No.4, p.69-75. (In English) Internet: In the field of safety, health and environmental protection (SHE), efforts are being made nationally and globally through public-private partnerships. These partnerships benefit from the support of various organizations including the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and the World Bank. This article describes the implementation of an SHE partnership programme in a highly-industrialized region of India. (104330)
CIS 05-537 A software selection. Brown-Haysom J., Safeguard, Mar. - Apr. 2005, No.90, p.26-33. Illus. (In English) Internet: Compilation of 20 commercially-available software applications for the management of occupational safety and health. Covers applications for general risk management and for specific aspects, including chemical safety, stress management, data collection and incident investigation and analysis. A table summarizes the features, scope, suppliers and price of each product. (104398)
CIS 05-538 Injury facts. National Safety Council, P.O. Box 558, Itasca, IL 60143-0558, USA, 2004. vi, 186p. Illus. 17 ref. Index. Price: USD 49.95 (members: USD 34.95)., ISBN 0-87912-258-7 (In English) Internet: This report provides statistics on all unintentional injuries in the United States for the year 2003, divided into the main sections of occupational injuries, non-occupational injuries, motor vehicle accidents and home and community injuries. Contents: overall statistics, costs and time lost, workers compensation claims, relative risk injury estimates, parts of body affected, incidence rates and demographic data. Specific sections are dedicated to the mining industry and to occupational diseases. (104309)
CIS 05-539 State administration of work safety - State administration of coal mine safety SAWS - SACMS. (Chinese: Guo Jia An Quan Sheng Chan Jian Du Guan Li Ju - Guo Jia Mei Kuang An Quan Jian Cha Ju) State Administration of Work Safety - State Administration of Coal Mine Safety, 21 Hepingli Beijei, Beijing 100713, China, no date. 47p. Illus. (In Chinese, English) Internet: Booklet presenting two Chinese occupational safety and health administrations: the State Administration of Work Safety and the State Administration of Coal Mine Safety. Contents: management; organization; main functions; functions of the Office of the Work Safety Committee of the State Council; provincial work safety bureaux; provincial coal mine safety bureaux; affiliated organizations. (104350)
CIS 05-540 An evidence based evaluation of how best to secure compliance with health and safety law. Wright M., Antonelli A., Doyle J.N., Bendig M., Genna R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. viii, 238p. Illus. 27 ref. Price: GBP 25.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2989-9 (In English) Internet: This report describes a project aimed at understanding the type of organizational factors that influence compliance with health and safety law. It involved a literature survey, 39 exploratory discussions with various stakeholders and questionnaire surveys. The key motivational drivers were found to include enforcement, reputational risk and ethics. In addition, the financial incentive provided by insurance premiums appears to have an increasing influence on compliance. See CIS 05-541 for a summary of the report. (104337)
CIS 05-541 An evidence based evaluation of how best to secure compliance with health and safety law - Summary report. Wright M., Antonelli A., Doyle J.N., Bendig M., Genna R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. vi, 25p. Illus. Price: GBP 10.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2990-2 (In English) Internet: This summary report describes a project aimed at understanding the type of organizational factors that influence compliance with health and safety law. It involved a literature survey, 39 exporatory discussions with various stakeholders and questionnaire surveys. The key motivational drivers were found to include enforcement, reputational risk, ethics and the growing importance of the financial incentive provided by insurance premiums. See CIS 05-540 for the full report. (104338)
CIS 05-542 Inter-organizational collaborative networks in occupational safety and health. (German: Interorganisationale Kooperationsnetzwerke im Anwendungsfeld "Sicherheit und Gesundheit bei der Arbeit") Seiler K., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2004. 189p. Illus. Approx. 230 ref. Price: EUR 17.00., ISBN 3-86509-211-X (In German) Internet: This report presents an analysis of publications and studies on inter-organizational collaborative networks in occupational safety and health, with emphasis on the synergistic effects of networks. A process model of networking was developed and recommendations for collaboration design and performance appraisal are proposed. Check lists and practical tools are also included. Issues related to the management of relationships within the network and the motives of participants are discussed. (104354)
CIS 05-543 Occupational hazard trees for the analysis of accidents and hazards. (German: Gefährdungsbäume zur Analyse von Unfällen und Gefährdungen) Hauptmanns U., Knetsch T., Marx M., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2004. 125p. Illus. 25 ref. + CD-ROM. Price: EUR 13.00., ISBN 3-86509-208-X (In German) Internet: This study demonstrates the application of fault tree analysis, an approach applied to the safety analysis of technical equipment, in occupational safety. It results in a hazard model expressed in the form of an occupational hazard tree for use in the assessment of workplace safety. The report includes examples of hazard trees for various workplaces and activities with specific hazards. It also presents a computer application entitled GAP for the generation of occupational hazard trees. This enables the identification of weaknesses in the safety system and the design and assessment of preventive measures. A CD-ROM containing the GAP software and its user manual is included. (104355)
CIS 05-544 Health and safety targets: How are we doing?. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2002. 36p. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: This document is a supplement to the HSC annual report and the HSC/E accounts 2001/02. It provides information on the progress of activities and successes in each area. Activities covered: priority programmes (falls from height, workplace transport; musculoskeletal disorders, work-related stress, construction, agriculture, health services, slips and trips); major hazard industries (railway, nuclear, offshore, COMAH, mines); securing compliance in various industry sectors and on cross-sector hazards; mandatory activities. (104414)
CIS 05-545 Recognition of COBPs and asthma as occupational diseases in the construction industry. (French: Reconnaissance en maladie professionnelle des asthmes et des BPCO dans le BTP) Choudat D., Revue de médecine du travail, May-June 2003, Vol.XXX, No.3, p.55-58. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: This article summarizes the procedure to be followed in France for the compensation of chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathies (COBPs) and asthma in the construction industry. It comprises three steps: declaration of the disease, recognition of its occupational origin and compensation. A table listing the tasks liable to give rise to asthma or COBP is included. (104440)
CIS 05-546 Occupational risk factors for mycosis fungoides: A European multicenter case-control study. Morales-Suárez-Varela M.M., Olsen J., Johansen P., Kaerlev L., Guénel P., Arveux P., Wingren G., Hardell L., Ahrens W., Stang A., Llopis A., Merletti F., Aurrekoetxea J.J., Masala G., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2004, Vol.46, No.3, p.205-211. 28 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this case-control study conducted from 1995 to 1997 in several hospitals across Europe was to search for possible occupational factors associated with mycosis fungoides (MF), a chronic cutaneous lymphoma. 134 patients aged between 35 and 69 diagnosed with MF were identified and their diagnoses were checked by a second pathologist. Of the 118 histologically-verified cases, 104 were interviewed, of which 76 were definitive cases. 833 colon cancer controls and 2071 population-based controls were also interviewed A high risk of MF for men was observed in non-metallic mineral products industries (odds ratio (OR) 5.3), among glass and ceramics workers (OR 17.9), among technical salesmen (OR 8.6) and in the wholesale trade (OR 3.6). For women, a high risk was found in paper pulp manufacturing (OR 14.4), as well as among government executives (OR 4.8) and railway and road vehicle loaders (OR 3.9). (104301)
CIS 05-547 A prospective study of occupation and prostate cancer risk. Zeegers M.P.A., Friesema I.H.M., Goldbohm R.A., van den Brandt P.A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2004, Vol.46, No.3, p.271-279. 59 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to investigate associations between occupation and prostate cancer in a cohort of 58,279 men. In September 1986, the cohort members (55-69 years) completed a self-administered questionnaire on potential cancer risk factors, including job history. Follow up data for incident prostate cancer was established by linkage to cancer registries until December 1993. Most of the previously investigated associations between occupation and prostate cancer risk could not be confirmed with confidence in this prospective study. Although a high risk was found among rubber industry workers (relative risk (RR) 4.18), the result is not statistically significant given their small number in the cohort. However, the risks for policemen were substantial and statistically significant (RR 3.91). (104305)
CIS 05-548 Symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders among apprentice construction workers. Merlino L.A., Rosecrance J.C., Anton D., Cook T.M., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2003, Vol.18, No.1, p.57-64. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among young construction workers. A symptom and job factors survey was self-administered to 996 construction apprentices. Prevalence was determined by the percent of positive responses to musculoskeletal symptom questions. The low back was the site most commonly reported for job-related MSD symptoms (54.4%). Low back symptoms were also the most common reason for seeking care from a physician (16.8%) and missing work (7.3%). Number of years worked in the construction trade was significantly associated with knee and wrist/hand MSD symptoms. Working in the same position for long periods was the job factor identified as most problematic, with 49.7 percent of all construction apprentices rating it as a moderate/major problem contributing to MSD symptoms. (104328)
CIS 05-549 Proposal for the health monitoring of particularly-sensitive workers. (Spanish: Propuesta para la vigilancia de la salud de los trabajadores especialmente sensibles) Díaz García J.A., Mapfre seguridad, 1st Quarter 2005, Vol.25, No.97, p.41-55. Illus. 20 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article proposes an approach for monitoring the health of particularly-sensitive workers. The approach involves an investigation of the risks to which workers are exposed and their conditions of work in order to draw up a health assessment. This may result in proposed modifications to the conditions of work or possibly a change of work. Specific cases of sensitive workers (pregnant or breast-feeding women, young workers) are then discussed individually. (104319)
CIS 05-550 Occupational health services. Takala J., Fedotov I.A., Eijkemans G., Kawakami T., Zhu C., Wang Y., Rantanen J., Estrella-Gust D.P., Hirvonen A., Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Nov. 2004, Vol.11, No.3, p.47-62 (whole issue). Illus. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: Collection of articles on occupational safety and health of relevance to countries in the Asian-Pacific region. Contents: occupational health services in the context of global occupational safety and health; ILO policy perspective on occupational health services; occupational health services as part of primary health care; developing the national occupational safety and health profile in China; developing basic occupational health services with special reference to China; occupational health services in the Philippines. (104349)
CIS 05-551 Risk of urinary bladder tumours in firemen. (French: Risque de tumeurs de la vessie urinaire chez les pompiers) McGregor D.B., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 26p. 82 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22690-2 (In French) Internet: This project consists of a critical analysis of the literature on the relationship between the development of bladder tumours and fire-fighting. On the basis of limited evidence, cases of bladder tumour could be related to the fire-fighting occupation if other factors such as smoking are excluded. Prior use of analgesics containing phenacetin and a medical history of multiple infections of the urinary tract that could contribute to the development of bladder cancer should be taken into consideration in establishing the diagnosis. (104443)
CIS 05-552 Risk of kidney tumours in firemen. (French: Risque de tumeurs du rein chez les pompiers) McGregor D.B., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 24p. 78 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22688-0 (In French) Internet: This project consists of a critical analysis of literature on the relationship between the development of kidney tumours and fire-fighting. Based on limited evidence, results indicate that kidney tumours may be linked to occupational exposures to contaminants among firefighters having more than 20 years of employment. Genetic characteristics and lifestyles may also be involved. (104444)
CIS 05-553 Risk of brain tumours in firemen. (French: Risque de tumeurs cérébrales chez les pompiers) McGregor D.B., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 26p. 63 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22686-4 (In French) Internet: This project consists of a critical analysis of literature on the relationship between the development of brain tumours and fire-fighting. None of the 18 identified studies could establish a link between brain tumours and the occupation of firefighter. (104445)
CIS 05-554 Medical prevention of occupational accidents - Experiences and changes. (French: La prévention médicale des accidents professionnels - Expériences et nouveautés; German: Die medizinische Berufsunfallprophylaxe - Erfahrungen und Neuerungen) Jost M., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, Spring 2002, No.73, p.11-20. Illus. 5 ref. (In French, German) Internet: Some workers are exposed to increased risks of occupational accidents because of health problems such as loss of consciousness, vertigo, vision problems or hearing loss. Hazardous activities include tasks involving risks of falls, entanglement with moving machinery parts or contact with electrical equipment. Swiss legislation requires preventive medical screening not only for occupational diseases, but also as a precaution against increased personal risks of accidents. Contents of this article on medical screening against the risk of occupational accidents: review of research undertaken on the topic to date; SUVA procedure for evaluating aptitude for work; tasks involving risks of falls; medical examinations required according to the new ordinance on cranes. (104341)
CIS 05-555 Concerning the position of the medical expert between insurers and the insured. (French: A propos de la situation du médecin expert entre l'assurance et les assurés; German: Zur Situation des gutachtenden Arztes zwischen Versicherung und Versicherten) Hoffmann-Richter U., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, Spring 2003, No.74, p.23-37. Illus. 17 ref. (In French, German) Internet: This article explores the role of the medical expert, whose task is to make or confirm a diagnosis rather than to treat the patient. It analyses the triangular relationship between medical experts, insurance institutions and patients and comments on the responsibilities, conditions and limitations faced by each of the three groups involved together with the resulting contradictions. (104344)
CIS 05-556 Conditions requiring special attention with respect to medical supervision. (German: Auswahlkriterien für die spezielle arbeitsmedizinische Vorsorge) Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Carl Heymanns Verlag KG, Luxemburgerstrasse 449, 50939 Köln, Germany, 1998. Binder containing 49 guidance sheets. Approx. 250p. Illus. (In German) Internet: These guidelines by the German Mutual Occupational Accident Insurance Association are aimed at occupational physicians. They concern exposures requiring special attention with respect to medical supervision and are divided into four sections: general guidelines concerning medical supervision; carcinogenic substances; non-carcinogenic harmful substances; other harmful exposures or situations (noise, cold and hot workplaces, strenuous work, respirators, hyperbaric pressure, work in foreign countries involving exposure to unusual climatic conditions and health hazards, welding fumes, risk of falls, infection hazards, biotechnology). (104358)
CIS 05-557 Bodily injuries considered as accidents: Quo vadis?. (French: Lésions corporelles assimilées à un accident: Quo vadis?; German: Die unfallähnliche Körperschädigung (UKS): Quo vadis?) Niederberger O., Stutz K., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, Spring 2002, No.73, p.78-88. 25 ref. (In French, German) Internet: Swiss law on compulsory accident and occupational disease insurance also covers injuries similar to the consequences of an accident. Often situated at the limit between accidents and diseases, these injuries are specified on a comprehensive list. Prior to 1984, the accident insurance settled claims only in cases where the accidental nature of the injury could be proven. The law was amended in 1984 allowing injuries of mixed accident and disease nature to be covered. Finally, current jurisprudence considers that even cases that are purely due to disease but which result in injuries comparable to those of accidents should be covered by the compulsory accident insurance. (104343)
CIS 05-558 Fatalities among fishing workers: Does size matter?. Mayhew C., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 2003, Vol.19, No.3, p.245-251. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: Current data on occupational fatalities among Australian fishing workers are limited, although some earlier mortality data (mainly from the 1980s) do exist. In this study, data on occupational fatalities among British fishing workers were analysed and, where possible, comparisons were made against the limited Australian data and key risk factors were evaluated. While drowning remains the most important cause of death for fishing workers worldwide, this comparison indicates that as the average size of vessels in the British fleet increased, the proportion of deaths caused by drowning decreased significantly. (104370)
CIS 05-559 Injuries and diseases among commercial fishermen in the Northeast Atlantic and Barents Sea. Data from the Royal Norwegian Coast Guard. Norum J., Endresen E., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2003, Vol.76, No.3, p.241-245. Illus. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: The working conditions in the Northeast Atlantic are potentially hazardous, and accidents are frequent. The objective of this study was to describe the situation as viewed by the Royal Norwegian Coast Guard (RNCG). A total of 117 consecutive reports on medical assistance at sea given by the three major RNCG vessels from October 1995 to March 2001 were analysed. Men constituted 96% of the cases treated, and 54% were Norwegians. The median age was 38 years. Seriousness was classified as low (46 cases), moderate (43 cases), serious (22 cases) and life threatening (five cases, including two deaths). Infection caused 27 visits. Fifty-five cases were due to trauma, while hand injuries constituted 19 cases. Fishermen over 40 years of age were more severely injured. In 52 cases, the RNCG personnel requested further medical advice. Sixty-one patients were hospitalized and 48 transported by helicopter. (104377)
CIS 05-560 A survey of health symptoms in BALPA Boeing 757 pilots. Michaelis S., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 2003, Vol.19, No.3, p.253-261. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: A questionnaire on health symptoms was sent to 600 members of the British Airline Pilots Association, of whom 106 responded. The study focused on the effects of air contaminants in the aircraft. With regard to leaks of engine oil and hydraulic fluids into the aircraft, 93 reported that they had been involved in at least one such incident. The total number reported was 1,674, with all but seven occurring on one type of aircraft. Following exposure to the contaminated air, high rates of symptoms were reported including: irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; headaches, light-headedness and dizziness; fatigue, weakness and a decrease in performance; a general increase in feeling unwell; concentration difficulties and confusion; diarrhoea; nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal problems; numbness (head, limbs, lips, fingers); short-term memory impairment; joint pain/muscle weakness. (104369)
CIS 05-561 Occupational allergies in the seafood industry - A comparative study of Australian and South African workplaces. Lopata A.L., Baatjies R., Thrower S.J., Jeebhay M.F., International Maritime Health, 2004, Vol.55, No.1/4, p.61-73. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: Although seafood allergy due to ingestion is commonly observed in clinical practice, the incidence of seafood allergies in occupational settings is largely unknown. In this study, the work practices, occupational health services and allergy problems in seafood processing enterprises in Australia were examined and compared to a those of a previous study conducted in South Africa. A cross-sectional survey design was used in both countries. In the South African study a response rate of 60% (n=41) was obtained, compared to a response rate of 18% (n = 140) in Australia. In both countries, skin rash accounted for highest of all reported health problems (78-81%) followed by asthmatic symptoms (7-10%) and other non-specific allergic symptoms (9-15%). Most enterprises reported the annual prevalence of work-related symptoms to be less than 5%. In Australia 7% of respondents in workplaces reported workers having left their workplace due to work-related allergy problems. (104382)
CIS 05-562 Telework and occupational health: A Quebec empirical study and regulatory implications. Montreuil S., Lippel K., Safety Science, June 2003, Vol.41, No.4, p.339-358. 87 ref. (In English) Internet: This article addresses occupational health issues associated with home-based telework. Based on a literature review, an overview of empirical research and the results of six case studies conducted within Canadian-based organisations, the study takes into account the social, ergonomic and regulatory issues relevant to the health and safety of teleworkers. The case studies and the literature review showed that home based telework is generally seen by workers as having a positive effect on their health, although potential problems arising from work station design, long hours and isolation were identified. Analysis of the legal framework in Quebec showed that while most occupational safety and health legislation applied to teleworkers, there was some concern as to whether it was effectively applied. (104367)
CIS 05-563 Work-system risk factors for permanent work disability among home-care workers: A case-control study. Dellve L., Lagerström M., Hagberg M., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2003, Vol.76, No.3, p.216-224. Illus. 46 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to explore and estimate the impact of the work system on permanent work disability among home-care workers. The 617 cases studied were all home-care workers in Sweden, whose disability pension had been approved in 1997 or 1998. The 771 controls were home-care workers still working. A questionnaire was used to gain information on working life and home life five and 15 years before disability pension entitlement. The most important risk factors in the work system were found to be poor ergonomic conditions, time pressure and lack of professional caring technique. Fifteen years prior to disability pension entitlement, insufficient management and relational problems at work were also risk factors. Five years before disability pension entitlement, organizational support, opportunities for co-working and working climate were also strongly related to persisting work ability. The magnitude of exposure to a number of risk factors had an increased effect. The strongest risk factor in home life was little opportunity to rest from work. (104374)
CIS 05-564 Evaluation and prevention of occupational hazards among home care workers. (French: Evaluation et prévention des risques chez les aides à domicile) Abécassis P., Beaumont N., Gomis C., Incorvaïa A.M., Lafon D., Metin P., Michel A., Pitol-Belin E., Revillet S., Seneque B., Bediot G., Ferry P., Gaillard A., Giroud C., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.102, p.161-189. 20 ref. (In French) Internet: This special feature on the evaluation and prevention of occupational hazards among home care workers covers the following topics: profile of the occupation, characteristics of workers and work organization; tasks involved in home care work; potential hazards (mental workload, physical hazards, risk of infection); recommendations for risk reduction. Appendices include two guides for occupational physicians. (104421)
CIS 05-565 Gallery of Mirrors at Versailles: Renovation of works of art and prevention of hazards. (French: Galerie des glaces à Versailles: restauration des œuvres et prévention des risques) Goris A.M., Travail et sécurité, Mar. 2005, No.649, p.2-9. Illus. 2 ref. (In French) Internet: The renovation of the Gallery of Mirrors in the Versailles palace will take three years, ending in the spring of 2007. Around 60 specialists are involved in restoring old paintings or in regilding the stucco. Hazards include the risk of fire, work at heights, exposure to harmful substances in poorly-ventilated areas and the presence on site of many subcontractors, often crafts enterprises. This article discusses some of the ways in which these hazards are managed on this site. (104314)
CIS 05-566 Maritime safety: Evaluation of hazards and the effectiveness of safety systems. (French: Sécurité de la navigation maritime: Evaluation des risques et de l'efficacité des systèmes) Quinquis J.J., ed., Centre d'Etudes Techniques Maritimes et Fluviales (CETMEF), 2 Boulevard Gambetta, BP 60039, 60321 Compiegne Cedex, France, 2004. 54p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French) Internet: This document comprises eight papers which explore the evaluation of maritime hazards and the effectiveness of current safety measures. Topics covered include: a risk management tool by the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA); European Union projects for maritime information systems and vessel monitoring; collision prevention systems; hazards associated with high-speed ships; rescue operations of "Les Abeilles International"; and refuge zones for ships in difficulty. (104469)
CIS 05-567 Maritime occupational accidents: Report and statistics 2003. (French: Accidents du travail maritime. Rapport et statistiques 2003) Direction de Affaires maritimes et des Gens de mer, Service de Santé des gens de mer, 3 place de Fontenoy, 75700 Paris 07, France, 2003. 29p. Illus. (In French) Internet: This report analyses statistics on occupational maritime accidents in France in 2003. Statistics are given by type of activity (shellfish farming, port services, merchant shipping, fishing) and by location of injury. Trends from 1998 are also analysed. (104470)
CIS 05-568 Women Seafarers. Global employment policies and practices. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. xvi, 128p. Bibl.ref. Price: CHF 25.00., ISBN 92-2-113491-1 (In English) Internet: This book addresses issues surrounding the working conditions and welfare of contemporary women seafarers from both developed and developing countries. Based on research commissioned by the ILO, it considers women's participation levels in the industry and examines policies concerning their recruitment, training, maternity and employment rights and other aspects of work and life at sea. It also offers first-hand accounts from women seafarers describing how they have dealt with discrimination, sexual harassment and other difficulties. The practices and policies of national and international regulatory agencies, employers, trade unions and maritime education and training institutions are examined and the report concludes with a series of recommendations. (104485)
CIS 05-569 Worker safety in the ship-breaking industries. Andersen A.B., Sectoral Activities Department, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. vii, 65p. Illus. 45 ref. (In English) Internet: This working paper examines the current situation in ship-breaking and makes suggestions for possible improvements in working conditions. Contents: current practices in ship-breaking; implications for occupational safety and health and the environment; existing standards and practices; national and international initiatives; future requirements. (104486)
CIS 05-570 Longshoring industry. U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue N.W., Washington D.C. 20210, USA, rev. ed. 2001. 278p. (In English) Internet: This booklet provides an overview of safety and health standards concerning the marine terminal and longshoring industries. Contents: guidelines for workplace safety and health programmes; marine terminal operations; cargo handling equipment; specialized terminals; personal protection; terminal facilities and means of access; safety and health regulations for longshoring. (104490)
CIS 05-571 Maritime occupational accidents and diseases: Report and statistics 2004. (French: Accidents et maladies professionnelles du travail maritime. Rapport et statistiques 2004) Faguet P., Direction de Affaires maritimes et des Gens de mer, Service de Santé des gens de mer, 3 place de Fontenoy, 75700 Paris 07, France, 2004. 30p. Illus. (In French) Internet: This report analyses statistics on occupational maritime accidents and diseases in France in 2004. Statistics on accidents are given by type of activity (shellfish farming, port services, merchant shipping, fishing), by the site of the accident (at sea or in port) and by the bodily location of the injury. Trends from 1997 are also analysed. Statistics on occupational diseases in the maritime sector are given by type of disease. (104492)
CIS 05-572 Maritime safety 2004. (German: Sicherheit auf See 2004) See-Berufsgenossenschaft, Reimerstwiete 2, 20457 Hamburg, Germany, 2005. 97p. Illus. (In German) Internet: Report on maritime safety 2004 by the See-Berufsgenossenschaft (See-BG, Maritime Mutual Accident Insurance). Contents: 1. Accident prevention: occupational accidents (2267 in 2004 compared to 2452 in 2003); breakdown of statistics by type of accident: fatal accidents (5 in 2004 against 3 in 2003); causes of accidents; accidents among young workers; occupational diseases; specific hazards; safety training; safety campaign for the prevention of slips, trips and falls. 2. Ship safety (breakdown of inspections by country). 3. Health service: medical fitness examinations; measurement of dangerous substances. In annex: useful addresses, directives, publications, notices, inspections, statistical tables of occupational accidents. (104497)
CIS 05-573 Annual Report of the See-Berufsgenossenschaft 2004. (German: See-Berufsgenossenschaft Verwaltungsbericht 2004) See-Berufsgenossenschaft, Reimerstwiete 2, 20457 Hamburg, Germany, 2004. 78p. Illus. (In German) Internet: Report of activities 2004 of the See-Berufsgenossenschaft (See-BG, Mutual Accident Insurance for the Maritime Sector). Contents: management; numbers insured, contributions; accident insurance, including occupational and commuting accidents, occupational diseases, benefits, retirement pensions, rehabilitation; health insurance; seafarers' fund; seafarers' medical service. Annexes include: budgets of the See-BG, the seafarers' fund, the maritime fund and the maritime health insurance fund. (104498)
CIS 05-574 Soft soldering. (French: Le brasage tendre) Guimon M., Mercier A., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2005. 4p. Illus. 10 ref. Price: EUR 1.50. Downloadable version free of charge. (In French) Internet: Soft soldering is widely practised in numerous industrial sectors and can give rise to several hazards. Following an overview of various soldering tools and processes, this information sheet lists the main hazards associated with soft soldering and describes the human health effects of substances that may be released during the process. (104297)
CIS 05-575 Working and protective gear for fishermen. Fishing Vessel Safety Branch, The Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Spring Place, 105 Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1EG, United Kingdom, June 2002. 5p. (In English) Internet: This guidance note provides general advice on the supply and use of working gear and personal protective equipment on board fishing vessels. It describes how to assess the need for protective gear, types of protective gear and factors to be considered in the supply, use and maintenance of working and protective gear. The provisions of relevant regulations are outlined. (104474)
CIS 05-576 Guidelines for safe working in estuaries and tidal areas when harvesting produce such as cockles, mussels and shrimps. HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. 3p. (In English) Internet: This guidance note describes precautions during the harvesting of shellfish in estuaries and tidal areas: risk assessment (knowledge of tide and weather conditions); weatherproof, high-visibility clothing; communications devices; planning and organization of the work; vehicle access to the work area; lifejackets and liferafts; emergency procedures. (104472)
CIS 05-577 Safety at sea as an integral part of fisheries management. Petursdottir G., Hannibalsson O., Turner J.M.M., Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Viale delle Terme di Caracalla, 0100 Roma, Italy, 2001. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: This report provides a global review of the status of fishermen's safety and assesses the opportunities, constraints and priorities for action. It is argued that safety at sea should be integrated into the general management of fisheries in each country. Contents: dimensions of the problem (fatalities in fisheries, inadequate documentation of injuries, inherent dangers); international conventions and guidelines on safety at sea; safety training; fisheries management and safety; safety at sea in developing countries; role of the FAO. (104488)
CIS 05-578 Occupational medicine in the tunnels of the new railway lines across the Alps. (French: Prévention en médecine du travail dans les tunnels des NLFA; German: Arbeitsmedizinische Vorsorge bei Arbeitnehmern im Neat-Tunnelbau) Kunz I., Jost M., Rast H., Vogel M., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, Spring 2003, No.74, p.45-55. Illus. 4 ref. (In French, German) Internet: Two important construction sites are currently active in Switzerland for building railway tunnels under the Alps. Given the depth of these tunnels, rock temperatures fluctuate between 40 and 50°C, resulting in difficult working conditions. Workers are also subjected to the risks that are inherent in tunnel construction, namely exposures to quartz, noise, diesel fumes, vibration and occasionally hyperbaric pressure. SUVA has defined a set of occupational health guidelines for the prevention of occupational diseases at these worksites. This article describes the screening and follow-up medical checks required for these workers and comments on practical experience with respect to medical examinations on these sites. (104345)
CIS 05-579 The seafarers' medical service. (French: Le service de santé des gens de mer) Direction des affaires maritimes et des gens de mer (DAM), Paris, France, [c2005]. Internet document, several pages. (In French) Internet: Information sheet on the organization of the French national medical service for sailors and other people in maritime occupations. The service is involved in: aptitude tests; medical inspection of ships registered in France; health-related training in French maritime colleges; participation on on-board OSH committees. A special supplement concerns advice on how to avoid infection with avian influenza. Also covered are: history of the service; organization, mission and activities of the service; statistics on maritime accidents. (104458)
CIS 05-580 Guide for dockers. (French: Fascicule du docker) Centre de Formation Professionnelle et d'Alphabétisation, Syndicat des Auxiliaires de Transport du Sénégal, Av. Félix Eboué, BP 3231 Dakar, Senegal, [c2000]. 14p. Illus. (In French) Internet: This guide describes the work of dockers and provides guidance on occupational safety and health: appropriate work clothing (safety shoes, helmets, gloves and masks); safe organization of work; equipment for the handling of heavy loads; personal hygiene and medical supervision; and safe working methods. (104461)
CIS 05-581 International Safety Management (ISM) Code 2002. International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, 2002. 6p. (In English) Internet: This code sets out requirements for ship owners and managers or anyone responsible for the operation of a ship to develop, implement and maintain a safety management system based on the following provisions: a safety and environmental protection policy; procedures to ensure the safe operation of ships and protection of the environment in compliance with relevant legislation; defined levels of authority and lines of communication among shore and shipboard personnel; procedures for the reporting of accidents and no-compliance with the code; emergency preparedness; and procedures for internal audits and management reviews. Certification and verification requirements are also set out. (104471)
CIS 05-582 Code of safe working practices for merchant seamen. Maritime and Coastguard Agency, The Stationery Office (TSO), PO Box 29, Norwich NR3 1GN, United Kingdom, Apr. 2005. 443p. (official electronic version). Price: GBP 19.99., ISBN 0-11-5526897 (In English) Internet: This Code is intended primarily for merchant seamen on United Kingdom registered vessels. It covers: safety responsibilities and shipboard management (risk assessment, health surveillance, safety officials, personal protective equipment, safety signs, means of access and safe movement, work equipment); personal health and safety; work activities (safe systems of work, permit to work systems, work in confined spaces, materials handling, use of work equipment, hot work); work on specialist ships. (104473)
CIS 05-583 The engagement of non-permanent employees on cargo handling operations in the ports industry. Port Skills and Safety Ltd., Africa House, 64-78 Kingsway, London, WC2B 6AH, United Kingdom, June 2000. 7p. (In English) Internet: This Code of Practice aims to ensure that no non-permanent employee is engaged in cargo-handling operations unless they have received the appropriate ports industry safety induction training and have been assessed by the cargo handling company as fit and competent to undertake the cargo handling operations for which they will be engaged. All non-permanent employees should be possession of a port safety induction card containing details of the safety training received. (104477)
CIS 05-584 Safer Ports Initiative: Guide to setting up a heath and safety liaison committee. Port Skills and Safety Ltd., Africa House, 64-78 Kingsway, London, WC2B 6AH, United Kingdom, 2003. 4p. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: This guidance note provides practical advice on the establishment of health and safety liaison committees in the ports industry. It describes the objectives of the liaison committee, people and organizations involved, the scope of safety and health items to be included in the remit of the committee and good committee practices. (104479)
CIS 05-585 Safer Ports Initiative: Guide to health and safety audits. Port Skills and Safety Ltd., Africa House, 64-78 Kingsway, London, WC2B 6AH, United Kingdom, 2003. 4p. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: This guidance note provides advice on the process of auditing as part of the health and safety management system in ports. The use of an audit to measure the effectiveness of an employer's policies and procedures is described and the features of an effective audit are outlined along with the selection of competent auditors. (104480)
CIS 05-586 Safety and health in ports. ILO code of practice. (French: Sécurité et santé dans les ports. Recueil de directives pratiques du BIT; Spanish: Seguridad y salud en los puertos. Repertorio de recomendaciones prácticas de la OIT) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. xxxii, 496p. Illus. 64 ref. Price: CHF 40.00., ISBN 92-2-115287-1 (En), ISBN 92-2-215287-5 (fr), ISBN 92-2-315287-9 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This code of practice provides guidance to ILO constituents and all those involved in the management, operation, maintenance and development of ports. Contents: general provisions (responsibilities, safety and health management, training); port infrastructure, plant and equipment; safe use of lifting appliances and loose gear; operations on shore and afloat; handling dangerous goods; health hazards and occupational health services; personnel welfare facilities; emergency arrangements. Replaces CIS 79-834 and CIS 76-309. (104482)
CIS 05-587 Guidelines for conducting pre-sea and periodic medical fitness examinations for seafarers. Sectoral Activities Department, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1997. 5p (In English) Internet: These Guidelines are intended for use by competent authorities, medical examiners, shipowners, seafarers' representatives and others concerned with the conduct of medical fitness examinations of seafarer candidates and serving seafarers. They have been developed to reduce wide differences in medical requirements and examination procedures and to ensure that medical certificates that are issued to seafarers are a valid indicator of their medical fitness for the work they will perform. Contents: relevant standards and guidance from the ILO, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the World Health Organization (WHO); purpose and content of the medical certificate; right of privacy; qualifications of medical examiners; and appeals procedures. (104483)
CIS 05-588 Health and safety in the maritime sector. (French: Santé et sécurité au travail maritime) Direction des Affaires maritimes et des Gens de mer, 3 Place de Fontenoy, 75700 Paris 07, France, Sep. 2001. 44p. (In French) Internet: This booklet identifies some of the hazards faced by seafarers and outlines preventive measures. Contents: function of the Service de Santé des Gens de Mer (Seafarers' Health Service); technical and medical approaches to safety and health; the role of maritime safety and health committees; the role of labour inspection; dangerous substances; noise; protection against occupational accidents; and sources of medical help at sea. (104491)
CIS 05-589 International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974 [amended to 2005]. International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, 1974 (with amendments to 2005). (In English) Internet: Internet page dedicated to the detailed description of the SOLAS Convention, which, in its successive forms, is generally regarded as the most important of all international treaties concerning the safety of merchant ships. The first version was adopted in 1914. The Convention currently in force is referred to as SOLAS 1974, as amended. It includes chapters on: ship construction and installations; fire protection; life-saving arrangements; radio communications; safety of navigation; carriage of cargoes and dangerous goods; nuclear ships; management for the safe operation of ships; safety measures for high-speed craft; special measures to enhance maritime safety and security; additional safety measures for bulk carriers. (104495)
CIS 05-590 Small commercial vessel safety guide. (French: Guide de sécurité des petits bâtiments commerciaux) Marine Safety Directorate, Transport Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N8, Canada, 2004. 107p. Illus. (In English, French) Internet: This safety guide is aimed at owners and operators of small commercial vessels (a vessel no larger than 15 tons gross tonnage, that is not a fishing vessel or a pleasure craft). Contents includes: registration and certification procedures; vessel construction standards; safety equipment (life saving equipment, fire safety, distress alert equipment); emergency procedures; avoiding emergencies; vessel stability; navigation equipment; safe working and operational practices; accident reporting; inspection. (104499)
CIS 05-591 Small fishing vessel safety manual. (French: Petits bateaux de pêche - Manuel de sécurité) Marine Safety Directorate, Transport Canada, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N8, Canada, 2003. 94p. Illus. (In English, French) Internet: Contents of this safety guide: navigating safely; vessel stability; safe working methods; equipment and installations; life saving equipment; weather information; emergency organization; distress signals. (104500)
CIS 05-592 Evaluation of occupational hazards - Guide for the graphic arts industry (typesetting, offset printing). (French: Evaluation des risques professionnels - Guide pour les industries graphiques (prépresse, imprimerie, offset)) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 2005. 72p. Illus. 24 ref. Price: EUR 8.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1261-3 (In French) Internet: This guide is aimed at the graphic arts industries (typesetting and offset printing). A structured approach is proposed for assisting heads of enterprises and persons responsible for hazard evaluation to compile and update the single document on hazard evaluation as specified by French regulations. Check lists are provided for the various steps of the process: preparing the evaluation, hazard identification, hazard classification, compilation of the single document, implementation of the action plan, updating the single document and following-up the action plan. (104298)
CIS 05-593 Waste water treatment. (French: Le traitement des eaux usées) Aussel H., Le Bâcle C., Dornier G., Galtier Y., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2004. 4p. Illus. 17 ref. Price: EUR 1.50. Downloadable version free of charge. (In French) Internet: On average, each person in France discharges 200 litres of waste water each day. Purification efforts need to be extended to take account of current regulatory trends concerning the protection of water and wastewater treatment. The objective of this information sheet is to highlight the various hazards to which workers of wastewater treatment plants are exposed and the preventive measures to be implemented. Contents: description of wastewater treatment; hazards (slips and falls, mechanical hazards, explosion hazards, toxicity hazards, biological hazards); preventive measures. (104296)
CIS 05-594 Powerpoint presentation on maritime social security in Germany. (German: Power-Point-Vortrag über die See-Sozialversicherung) See-Berufsgenossenschaft, Reimerstwiete 2, 20457 Hamburg, Germany, 2005. CD-ROM. (In German) Internet: This Powerpoint presentation describes maritime social security in Germany and the structure of the See-Berufsgenossenschaft (See-BG - Maritime Mutual Accident Insurance). Seafarers' social security and ship safety comprise the following departments: accident insurance; seafarers' fund; maritime health insurance; maritime medical service (responsible for the medical assessment of seafarers); maritime social security; ship safety (responsible for the inspection of life-saving and fire-fighting measures); crew training; management of international safety (ISM Code - International Safety Management); port control; and the Maritime Alliance (seafarer training). (104494)
CIS 05-595 Workers' journal. (Portuguese: Revista do trabalhador) Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego, Fundacentro, Rua Capote Valente 710, São Paulo, SP 05409-002, Brazil, 2001. Set of nine videos on safety in the construction industry in VHS-NTSC format (length: approx. 10min each). Price: BRL 20.00 each. (In Portuguese) Internet: Set of nine videotapes relating to safety in the construction industry covering the following topics: falls from heights; temporary access; transport of construction industry workers; play on safety in the construction industry; layout of construction sites; excavation and foundation work; lifting of loads; civil engineering; scaffolds. (104320)
CIS 05-596 Safety and health for port workers. Syndicat des Auxiliaires de Transport du Sénégal, Av. Félix Eboué, BP 3231 Dakar, Senegal, [c2000]. Videocassette. (In Wolof) Internet: This video cassette in Wolof describes occupational safety and health measures for port workers. (104462)
CIS 05-597 The shipbreakers. (French: Les ferrailleurs de la mer) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2000. Videocassette 23 min. VHS PAL in English, VHS NTSC in French. Price: CHF 35.00., ISBN 92-2-112328-6 (En), ISBN 92-2-212328-X (fr) (In English, French) Internet: This videocassette exposes the dangerous working conditions of the men who dismantle ships in the ship-breaking yards of India and Bangladesh. It reveals hazards such as manual handling of steel plates, work in extreme temperatures with primitive machinery, long hours of work and a lack of training and workers' rights. Interviews with shipowners, government and industry experts and the workers themselves reveal the complex issues that surround this industry. (104484)
CIS 05-598 Technological innovations, organizational change and workplace accident prevention. Harrisson D., Legendre C., Safety Science, June 2003, Vol.41, No.4, p.319-338. Illus. 36 ref. (In English) Internet: In a case study involving seven industrial firms, the objective was to generate new postulates about the relationship between the way technological change is managed, the organizational transformations leading to more workers' participation, the introduction of a health and safety programme and the occurrence of occupational accidents and illnesses. Data were obtained from interviews with managers, workers and union representatives, as well as through the analysis of statistics and a detailed list of work injuries. It was found that technological change contributes to improving working conditions, but, at the same time, the intensity of work and the increased workload mitigate the results. (104366)
CIS 05-599 The use of working manuals for operators in the control loop of installations with computer-controlled systems. (German: Der Einsatz von Arbeitsunterlagen für Operateure im Regelkreis verfahrenstechnischer Anlagen mit rechnergestützten Prozessleitsystemen) Hartwig S., Binder F., Kim J.H., Sturm M., Rupp A., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2004. 177p. Illus. 24 ref. Price: EUR 16.00., ISBN 3-86509-175-X (In German) Internet: This study analysed the tasks and qualifications of operators responsible for control circuits of computer-controlled process equipment. It also examined the mode of operation at several enterprises and surveyed manufacturers of process control systems. It was observed that in the event of problems resulting in equipment failures, operator workloads are at their highest and the available documentation is generally unsuited to the situation. Operators require detailed knowledge of the equipment and easy access to practical documentation in order to be able to react properly in critical situations. A matrix-based system was developed for this purpose, allowing the necessary documentation to be located promptly. A model operating manual was also developed. (104356)
CIS 05-600 Safety data sheets: A useful tool in hazard evaluation. (French: Fiches de données de sécurité: pour une bonne évaluation des risques) Lebreton R., Reynier M., Triolet J., Pillière F., Face au risque, May 2005, No.413, p.17-20. Illus. (In French) Internet: The safety data sheet (SDS) for chemicals constitutes a key element of the occupational safety and health system by providing information to the users of these products. This article describes the current situation in France with respect to the required content of SDSs. Topics covered: scope of new regulations resulting from the transposition of Directive 2001/58/EC into French legislation; legal obligation to make the SDS available; use of the SDS for preparing workplace safety and health instructions. (104434)
CIS 05-601 Effect thresholds in hazard evaluation. (French: Les seuils d'effets dans les études de dangers) Berhault B., Face au risque, June-July 2005, No.414, p.15-17. Illus. (In French) Internet: New French regulations require manufacturers to undertake a risk analysis as part of their hazard evaluation procedure. This analysis should take into account not only the severity of the effects of potential accidents, but also their probability of occurrence and their kinetics. By estimating the risk probability and the severity, it is possible to deduct its criticality, namely its position on a scale of importance with respect to its acceptability. This article presents the main provisions of the new regulations in the form of a table that summarizes the thresholds to be used in hazard evaluation for thermal effects, overpressures, toxic effects and projectiles. (104436)
CIS 05-602 Exposure to inhalable flour dust in Canadian flour mills. Karpinski E.A., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2003, Vol.18, No.12, p.1022-1031. Illus. 48 ref. (In English) Internet: This study of the levels of exposure to flour dust in flour mills across Canada was conducted to verify existing conditions and to decide whether to adopt the proposed Threshold Limit Value (TLV) of 0.5mg/m3 for flour dust with a sensitization notation. As part of the study, a relationship between flour dust concentrations obtained by using IOM samplers and closed-face 37mm cassettes was examined and the literature on the health effects of exposure to flour dust was reviewed. A total of 104 workers from 14 flour mills were sampled over an 8-hour work shift using IOM samplers. The results indicated that 101 employees (97.1%) were exposed to levels exceeding 0.5mg/m3, 66 employees (67.3%) to levels exceeding 5mg/m3, and 44 employees (42.3%) to levels exceeding 10mg/m3. Flour dust measurements were also taken in a highly automated flour mill using state-of-the-art technology. Results suggest that even with the most up-to-date technology and regular cleaning operations in place, the flour milling industry may not be able to reduce the flour dust levels to below the proposed TLV of 0.5mg/m3. (104373)
CIS 05-603 Reducing enclosed cab drill operator's respirable dust exposure with effective filtration and pressurization techniques. Cecala A.B., Organiscak J.A., Zimmer J.A., Heitbrink W.A., Moyer E.S., Schmitz M., Ahrenholtz E., Coppok C.C., Andrews E.H., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2005, Vol.2, No.1, p.54-63. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: Many different types of surface mining equipment use enclosed cabs to protect equipment operators from health and safety hazards. Mining processes can be extremely dusty and can cause excessive dust exposure. A cooperative research programme was established between NIOSH, mining industries and mining equipment manufacturers aimed at lowering respirable dust levels in an enclosed cab on a surface drill at a silica sand operation. A number of modifications were incorporated into the drill's filtration and pressurization system, as well as in other areas, to improve its design and performance. An average cab efficiency of 93.4% was determined with gravimetric sampling instruments when comparing the outside with the inside cab dust levels on the final design. Although this research was originally directed towards the mining industry it is also applicable to agricultural or construction equipment. (104390)
CIS 05-604 Ultrafine particles and occupational health - 1. Characteristics and potential health effects. (French: Particules ultra-fines et santé au travail - 1. Caractéristiques et effets potentiels sur la santé) Witschger O., Fabriès J.F., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.199, p.21-35. Illus. 75 ref. (In French) Internet: Ultrafine particles (nanoparticles) present potentially serious occupational health hazards. This literature survey involved the study of approximately 180 scientific papers, reports or books, of which nearly 80% were published after the year 2000. Topics covered: characteristics of ultrafine particles (physical nature, airborne behaviour and surface deposition); air filtration; definitions of ultrafine aerosols;. deposition in the respiratory tract; potential health effects (epidemiologic studies and toxicology). The issue of occupational exposure is addressed in a separate article (see CIS 05-605). (104427)
CIS 05-605 Ultrafine particles and occupational health - 2. Sources and characterization of exposure. (French: Particules ultra-fines et santé au travail - 2. Sources et caractérisation de l'exposition) Witschger O., Fabriès J.F., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.199, p.37-54. Illus. 120 ref. (In French) Internet: As a sequel to the article analysed under CIS 05-604, which dealt with the essential characteristics of ultrafine particles, their interactions and their potential health effects, this article describes the sources of ultrafine aerosols in workplace atmospheres. It examines sources in the conventional technology and nanotechnology fields and describes techniques for the characterization of occupational exposures to ultrafine aerosols, including strategy, instrumentation and determination of the concentration in air in terms of number of particles, surface area and mass. (104428)
CIS 05-606 Ultrafine particles - Nanodevelopment under surveillance. (French: Particules ultrafines - Le nanodéveloppement sous surveillance) Beasseur G., Witschger O., Delmotte H., Travail et sécurité, June 2005, No.652, p.26-36. Illus. 2 ref. (In French) Internet: This special feature addresses the occupational hazards faced by workers in the field of nanotechnology. The main mode of absorption is by inhalation, although there is also a risk of skin absorption and ingestion. Contents: ultrafine aerosols and their potential hazards; prevention through information; safety in laboratories during the preparation of nanopowders; vigilance during laboratory research activities. (104432)
CIS 05-607 Particulates dispersed in workplace atmospheres: A health hazard. (French: Particules dispersées dans l'air des lieux de travail: un risque pour la santé) Fabriès J.F., Revue de médecine du travail, May-June 2003, Vol.XXX, No.3, p.22-28. Illus. 20 ref. (In French) Internet: This article addresses the evaluation of exposure to airborne particulate matter at the workplace based on in situ measurements of aerosol characteristics. Following a brief review of the physical properties of aerosols (particle diameter, volume and movement), it outlines health aspects of respirable, thoracic and alveolar particle fractions and describes techniques for air sampling and exposure evaluation. (104437)
CIS 05-608 Investigation of ventilated and unventilated work premises. (Polish: Badanie obszarów wentylowanych i niewentylowanych w pomieszczeniu pracy) Jankowska E., Jankowski T., Kondej D., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, Jan. 2003, No.1, p.17-19. Illus. (In Polish) Internet: This article presents the results of a complex investigation of ventilated and unventilated spaces using anemometric, tracer gas and visualization methods. The results of investigations conducted in a welding shop are discussed. (104279)
CIS 05-609 Summary of the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety: 1-7 November 2003. Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003, Vol.9, No.2-3, p.91-116. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: The fourth Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) took place in Bangkok, Thailand from 1 to 7 November 2003. Approximately 630 participants representing over 100 governments, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations and industries attended. This article reviews the reports presented by the various working groups during the forum. Contents: brief history of the IFCS; report of the meeting; IFCS administrative systems; president's progress report; report on pollutant release and transfer inventories; children and chemical safety; occupational safety and health; hazard data generation and availability; acutely toxic pesticide risk management; assistance to developing countries in building chemical safety capacity; globally harmonized system for the classification and labelling of chemicals; prevention of illegal international traffic in toxic and dangerous products; strategic approach to international chemicals management. (104281)
CIS 05-610 President's progress report. Cavalcanti H.B., Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003, Vol.9, No.2-3, p.121-149. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: Progress report presented by the president of the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) during the fourth Forum held in Bangkok, Thailand from 1 to 7 November 2003. Contents: IFCS progress from 2000 to 2003 (participation, meetings and events, priorities for action, new issues); review of priority targets, objectives and tools of the Bangkok session. (104282)
CIS 05-611 Addressing the widening gap among countries in following chemical safety policies. Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003, Vol.9, No.2-3, p.150-156. 2 ref. (In English) Internet: This report on the gap among countries in following chemical safety policies was presented during the fourth Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) in Bangkok, Thailand from 1 to 7 November 2003. Contents: issues for consideration and actions requested; background; current situation and recommendations (existing IFCS recommendations, causes of the problem, proposed practical measures, monitoring, future recommendations). (104283)
CIS 05-612 Strategic approach to international chemicals management (SAICM) - Thought starter on gaps in the Bahia Declaration and priorities for action beyond 2000. Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003, Vol.9, No.2-3, p.157-177. 6ref. (In English) Internet: This paper on the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) was presented during the fourth intergovernmental forum on chemical safety (IFCS) in Bangkok, Thailand from 1 to 7 November 2003. It addresses issues related to the life-cycle management of chemicals, the growing output of chemicals in developing countries and gaps in the management of chemicals. (104284)
CIS 05-613 Acutely toxic pesticides: Initial input on extent of problem and guidance for risk management. Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003, Vol.9, No.2-3, p.178-187. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: This report on the risk management of acutely-toxic pesticides was presented during the fourth Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) in Bangkok, Thailand from 1 to 7 November 2003. Factors associated with pesticide poisoning incidents are discussed (type of product, lack of technical and organizational measures, safe systems of work and appropriate information and training, infrastructure weaknesses) and recommendations are made for policy, regulatory and communication actions. (104285)
CIS 05-614 Thought starter on possible recommendations on the global harmonized system (GHS). Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003, Vol.9, No.2-3, p.188-201. (In English) Internet: This paper addresses issues concerning the implementation of the UN Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS, see CIS 03-822). It was presented during the fourth Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) in Bangkok, Thailand from 1 to 7 November 2003. Contents: description of the GHS; international policy background; implementation issues; existing capacity building initiatives; recommendations. (104286)
CIS 05-615 Occupational safety and health issues and the work of IFCS. Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003, Vol.9, No.2-3, p.202-212. (In English) Internet: This report on occupational safety and health issues and the work of the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) was presented during the fourth session of the IFCS in Bangkok, Thailand from 1 to 7 November 2003. Issues addressed: international assessment of chemical risk; harmonization of classification and labelling of chemicals; information exchange on toxic chemicals and chemical risks; establishment of risk reduction programmes; strengthening national capabilities for the management of chemicals. (104287)
CIS 05-616 Hazard data generation and availability report for Forum IV. Central European Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003, Vol.9, No.2-3, p.213-224. (In English) Internet: This report on hazard data generation and availability was presented during the fourth Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) in Bangkok, Thailand from 1 to 7 November 2003. Among the issues discussed: prioritization of chemicals for hazard data generation and accessibility; promotion of hazard data generation; efforts to minimize the use of animals in the development of hazard data; hazard data accessibility; roles of industry and government; current practices and proposals; recommendations. (104288)
CIS 05-617 Work-related asthma among health care workers: Surveillance data from California, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New Jersey, 1993-1997. Pechter E., Davis L.K., Tumpowsky C., Flattery J., Harrison R., Reinisch F., Reilly M.J., Rosenman K.D., Schill D.P., Valiante D., Filios M., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2005, Vol.47, No.3, p.265-275. 89 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study on work-related asthma (WRA), cases were identified using physician reports and hospital discharge data in four states. Structured interviews were used to confirm cases and collect data on occupations and exposures associated with WRA. It was found that health care workers accounted for 16% of the 1879 confirmed WRA cases, but only 8% of the states' workforce. Cases were primarily nurses employed in hospitals. The most commonly reported exposures were to cleaning products, latex, and poor air quality. It is concluded that health care providers need to recognize the risk of WRA, since early diagnosis decreases the morbidity associated with the disease. Careful product purchasing and facility maintenance would decrease the risk. (104290)
CIS 05-618 Occupational exposure to welding fume among welders: Alterations of manganese, iron, zinc, copper, and lead in body fluids and the oxidative stress status. Li G.J., Zhang L.L., Lu L., Wu P., Zheng W., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2004, Vol.46, No.3, p.241-248. Illus. 52 ref. (In English) Internet: Welders in this study were selected from a vehicle manufacturing plant; control subjects were from a nearby food factory. Airborne manganese levels in the breathing zones of welders and controls were 1.45±1.08mg/m3 and 0.11±0.07 mg/m3 respectively. Serum levels of manganese and iron in welders were 4.3 fold and 1.9 fold respectively higher than those of controls. Blood lead concentrations in welders increased 2.5 fold, whereas serum zinc levels decreased 1.2 fold, in comparison with controls. Linear regression revealed the lack of associations between blood levels of five metals and welder's age. Furthermore, welders had erythrocytic superoxide dismutase activity and serum malondialdehyde levels 24% less and 78% higher, respectively, than those of controls. These findings suggest that occupational exposure to welding fumes among welders disturbs the homeostasis of trace elements in systemic circulation and induces oxidative stress. (104304)
CIS 05-619 Decreased lung function associated with occupational exposure to epichlorohydrin and the modification effects of glutathione S-transferase polymorphisms. Luo J.C., Cheng T.J., Kuo H.W., Chang M.J.W., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2004, Vol.46, No.3, p.280-286. 45 ref. (In English) Internet: Epichlorohydrin (ECH) is a strong irritant of the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin. Because the toxic effect of various chemicals can be modified by metabolic traits, this study investigated the influence of the glutathione S-transferase (GSTM1 and GSTT1) genes on the toxic effect of ECH. In the GSTM1 null genotype workers, there is a dose-response of lung function tests for ECH exposure, but not in the GSTM1 non-null genotype workers. The ECH exposure was found to be significantly associated with decreased FEV1 and MMEF values after adjusting for other factors. The GSTM1 null genotype was found to be significantly associated with decreased FEV1, FEV1/FVC and MMEF values after adjusting for other factors. This study indicates that obstructive lung abnormalities and small airway lung damage are associated with ECH exposure, and ECH workers with GSTM1 null-type are also associated with increased respiratory damage. (104306)
CIS 05-620 Nanotechnologies and health hazards. (French: Nanotechnologies et risques sanitaires) Seillan H., Brochard P., Laurent L., Hervé-Bazin B., Préventique-Sécurité, Mar.-Apr. 2005, No.80, p.4-16. Illus. (In English, French) Internet: This collection of articles discusses the health hazards posed by nanotechnology. Given their nanometre-scale size, nanoparticles (nanospheres or nanotubes) of carbon, titanium dioxide or other substances can interact with living tissues differently than other larger-sized particles. While knowledge of the health hazards of these particles remains very limited, development and commercialization efforts are already highly advanced. A case is made for increased efforts in toxicological research prior to the commercialization of these substances. (104315)
CIS 05-621 Control of silica exposure in construction: Scabbling concrete. Tharr D., ed., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2002, Vol.17, No.12, p.809-813. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: The scabbling of concrete involves dressing the surface to remove surface imperfections or surface coatings. In this study, the efficiency of a novel system to suppress dust generated during scabbling by using a spray nozzle bar on the scabbler was examined by NIOSH. The scabbler was used to remove high spots and footprints from the surface of a parking deck under construction at an airport. Personal breathing zone samples were collected, and crystalline silica analysis was carried out using X-ray diffraction. It was found that the system allowed 80% reductions in exposures to crystalline silica dust. (104321)
CIS 05-622 Occupational asthma, lung function decrement, and toluene diisocyanate (TDI) exposure: A critical review of exposure-response relationships. Ott M.G., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2002, Vol.17, No.12, p.891-901. 73 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature review on the effects of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) exposure on respiratory health focused on bronchial asthma and the accelerated decline in lung function. In the early years of the industry, annual incidence rates of TDI-induced occupational asthma (OA) were as high as 5-6 percent. In settings where mean TDI concentrations have been maintained below 5ppb, OA incidence rates have declined to below 1% annually. Studies from the 1960s and 1970s that examined lung function decrement provided evidence of a decline in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) during periods of ongoing exposure among employees experiencing high rates of work-related symptoms of OA. More recent studies have provided no consistent evidence of accelerated FEV1 loss among employees exposed up to 5ppb TDI (8-hr TWA) even with documented routine short-term TDI concentrations exceeding 20ppb. (104323)
CIS 05-623 Hazards associated with the manufacture and repair of neon lights. Tharr D., ed., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2003, Vol.18, No.1, p.1-9. Illus. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: NIOSH received a request for a health hazard evaluation from the owner of a small business that manufactures and repairs neon tubes for commercial signs or artwork. The owner, who was also the sole worker, was concerned about possible health effects related to his exposures to mercury, lead and cadmium. A site visit was carried out by a NIOSH health hygienist. A review of the worker's medical records showed that concentrations of mercury and cadmium were below occupational criteria and lead was not detected. A certain number of technical control measures and changes in work practices were recommended, primarily in the areas of exhaust ventilation, together with continued medical surveillance. (104324)
CIS 05-624 Overexposure to crystalline silica in a foundry operation. Fairfax R.E., ed., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2003, Vol.18, No.1, p.18-21. Illus. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: Foundry workers are known to be exposed to crystalline silica. In most foundries, metal castings are made through the use of sand moulds. Exposure to crystalline silica occurs during the moulding process, during shakeout operations and during metal finishing. This report describes the inspection made by NIOSH in a foundry. Personal sampling for respirable silica was conducted throughout the plant. This inspection discovered three cases of overexposure to crystalline silica and the employer was cited for various violations under existing U.S. regulations. A plan for reducing exposures was discussed and agreed with the employer. It involved various technical measures, including exhaust ventilation, and the supply of respirators and protective clothing as an interim measure. (104325)
CIS 05-625 Diesel exhaust exposure in the Canadian railroad work environment. Verma D.K., Finkelstein M.M., Kurtz L., Smolynec K., Eyre S., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2003, Vol.18, No.1, p.25-34. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: An investigation of occupational exposure to diesel exhaust in terms of elemental carbon was carried out within the Canadian railroad industry. Both personal and area samples were collected from three major operating divisions of the railways: mechanical service, transportation and engineering. A total of 255 elemental carbon samples are described. The results show that all but six elemental carbon concentrations are well below the 2001 proposed American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists' threshold limit value (TLV) of 20µg/m3. The concentration of diesel exhaust expressed as elemental carbon is much lower in the railroad industry than in some other major industries such as mining and forklift truck operations. (104326)
CIS 05-626 Implementation of responsible care in India - Expectations, achievements, challenges. Hazra S.K., Industrial Safety Chronicle, Jan.-March 2003, Vol.XXXIII, No.4, p.51-55. (In English) Internet: Responsible care (RC) holds a specific significance for India. Indian companies, as good corporate citizens, are steadily adopting RC by voluntary initiative. There is a change in the mindset among large and professional business houses who have made significant progress in this regard. Smaller and family-held companies on the other hand are reacting to RC slowly. RC is also yet to take root in the public and community perception. The Indian Chemical Manufacturers Association (ICMA) is meeting this challenge by working closely with other professional bodies and non-governmental organizations to promote RC. (104329)
CIS 05-627 Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from bisphenol A in vinyl gloves. Matthieu L., Godoi A.F.L., Lambert J., Van Grieken R., Contact Dermatitis, Dec. 2003, Vol.49, No.6, p.281-283. Illus. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: Allergic contact dermatitis caused by polyvinyl chloride gloves is rarely reported, and in only two cases was bisphenol A considered to be the responsible sensitizer. In this case report, a patient developed occupational hand dermatitis after the use of a new type of high-density vinyl (HDV) gloves. Patch tests showed positive reactions to both used and new HDV gloves and to bisphenol A. Chemical analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry demonstrated the presence of bisphenol A in the HDV gloves. Replacement by nitrile rubber gloves resulted in complete clearance of the hand dermatitis. (104365)
CIS 05-628 Benzene exposure measurement in shoe and glue manufacturing: A study to validate biomarkers. Qu Q., Cohen B.S., Shore R., Chen L.C., Li G., Jin X., Melikian A.A., Yin S., Yan H., Xu B., Li Y., Mu R., Zhang X., Li K., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2003, Vol.18, No.12, p.988-998. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to determine whether selected biological markers of exposure to benzene are reliable and sensitive enough to detect low-level exposures. Recruitment of 130 exposed subjects was based on personal exposure measurements collected for three to four weeks prior to collection of biological samples. Personal exposure to benzene was monitored between 1997 and 1998 and results were correlated with the concentrations of two urinary benzene metabolites, trans, trans-muconic acid and S-phenylmercapturic acid. Results indicated that S-phenylmercapturic acid appears to be a good biomarker for detecting and evaluating benzene exposure at concentrations less than 0.25ppm. (104371)
CIS 05-629 Characterization of chemical exposures in hairdressing salons. Labrèche F., Forest J., Trottier M., Lalonde M., Simard R., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2003, Vol.18, No.12, p.1014-1021. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, airborne concentrations of volatile chemicals selected from a list of possibly detrimental hairdressing ingredients were determined in 26 salons in Montreal, Canada. At the time of sampling, information on working conditions and environments was also noted. Temperatures ranged between 17 and 26°C, relative humidity between 18% and 59% and CO2 concentrations from 583 to 4301mg/m3. The most prevalent chemicals were ethanol, at an average personal concentration of 39.9mg/m3, and isopropanol at an average personal concentration of 3.1mg/m3. Acetone, toluene, and acetates, all related to manicure services, were also measured in small quantities. Although the measured concentrations of chemicals were fairly low in this study, it appears possible that on very busy days, especially if other chemical services are performed in the salon, the total mixture of airborne chemicals could reach significant concentrations. (104372)
CIS 05-630 A neuropsychotoxicological assessment of workers in a sodium azide production plant. Miljours S., Braun C.M.J., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2003, Vol.76, No.3, p.225-232. 55 ref. (In English) Internet: Neuropsychological and psychological tests, a symptom self-report questionnaire and haematological and cardiac measurements were gathered from 41 workers exposed to sodium azide and from 42 unexposed workers in a chemical production plant yearly for three years. The exposed workers presented more acute symptoms of exposure (headache, vertigo, nausea, fatigue, cardiac palpitations, irritated eyes) than did the unexposed workers. However, only one chronic symptom was repeatedly and more significantly reported, namely trembling of the hands. No psychological or neuropsychological tests (reaction time, psychomotor performance, cognitive performance, chromatopsia, Profile of Mood States) differentiated the two groups. However, acute effects of exposure on plasma creatinine and on systolic pressure were noted. Low creatinine levels in the plasma of exposed workers correlated significantly with impairment of mood on the Profile of Mood States test, but not with any other measure. (104375)
CIS 05-631 Estimation of the general threshold limit values for dust. Ulm K., Salanti G., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2003, Vol.76, No.3, p.233-240. Illus. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: The general threshold limit values for dust proposed by the German MAK Commission have been criticized with respect to the statistical methods applied. This paper provides a critical review of methods used for estimating threshold level values and presents results from a new approach: the use of additive isotonic models. Results from this model confirm previous assessments of the general threshold limit value. (104376)
CIS 05-632 Neopterin as a biomarker for the evaluation of occupational exposure to silica. Altindag Z.Z., Baydar T., Isimer A., Sahin G., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2003, Vol.76, No.4, p.318-322. Illus. 26 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to measure neopterin levels among workers exposed to silica and also to examine whether these measurements would be of use in assessing occupational exposure to silica. Serum and urinary neopterin levels of 22 silica-exposed workers and 20 unexposed healthy volunteers were investigated by immunoassay, spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography techniques. In the control and exposed groups of workers, serum neopterin levels were 5.98±0.44 and 7.86±1.97nmol/l, respectively while urinary neopterin levels were 97.60±41.42nol/mol creatinine and 165.59±78.20µmol/mol creatinine respectively. Correlations between urinary neopterin levels, serum neopterin concentration and working years, smoking status, self-reported complaints, and silica in the working atmosphere were also evaluated. The findings suggest that follow up of neopterin levels may have diagnostic value in silica-related diseases such as silicosis. (104380)
CIS 05-633 Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from lichens in present-day Finland. Aalto-Korte K., Lauerma A., Alanko K., Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 2005, Vol.52, No.1, p.36-38. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: Lichens are abundant in forests, living on trees, soil, stones and rocks. They contain usnic acid and other lichen acids that are contact allergens. Lichens and liverworts cause woodcutter's dermatitis, a form of eczema that appears in the forest on the bare skin areas, especially in cold and wet weather. Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from lichens occurs in forestry and horticultural workers and among pickers of lichens used in fragrances. Lichens can cause immediate allergy, contact urticaria, rhinitis and asthma and probably also photo-allergic contact dermatitis. Lichens are used for the manufacture of oak moss absolute, a fragrance constituent that is one of the commonest contact allergens. Four cases of occupational allergic contact dermatitis from lichens in Finland during the past decade, two in farmers and two in gardeners, are described. (104384)
CIS 05-634 Evaluation of employee exposure to organic tin compounds used as stabilizers at PVC processing facilities. Boraiko C., Batt J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Feb. 2005, Vol.2, No.2, p.73-76. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to evaluate worker exposure to organic tin compounds at PVC processing facilities and to verify that these exposures were below the threshold limit value (TLV) set by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (AGCIH) for organic tin. The principal concern is to minimize effects of airborne exposure to organic tin on the immune function and the central nervous system. Personal exposure monitoring was conducted following the National lnstitute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) 5504 sampling method and a modified version of the NIOSH analytical method. No average exposure levels for the various tasks examined exceeded the organic tin TLV and 96% of the samples showed a result of less than 20% of the TLV. Only one sample of 102 exceeded the TLV and the individual was wearing appropriate respiratory protection. (104386)
CIS 05-635 Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofuran concentrations in serum samples of workers at an infectious waste incineration plant in Japan. Kumagai S., Koda S., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Feb. 2005, Vol.2, No.2, p.120-125. 36 ref. (In English) Internet: In 1998-2000, concentrations of summed polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) in the exhaust gas of an infectious waste incineration plant were found to be considerably in excess of the Japanese legal limit value of 80ng toxic equivalents (TEQ)/m3. The incinerator ceased operation in November 2000. This study investigated whether the incinerator workers were exposed to high levels of PCDDs and PCDFs. Blood samples of five workers and five unexposed control subjects were collected one month and 16 months after the end of the occupational exposure. Ash remaining in the incinerator and dust deposited around the conveyer and incinerator areas was also collected; TEQ values were 44 and 10ng TEQ/g, respectively. A month after the end of occupational dioxin exposure, mean TEQ for the workers was 49.1pg TEQ/g lipid, 2.7 times higher than among the controls, while at 16 months, it was still 1.6 times higher than among the controls. (104388)
CIS 05-636 Determinants of airborne fiber size in the glass fiber production industry. Quinn M.M., Smith T.J., Schneider T., Eisen E.A., Wegman D.H., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2005, Vol.2, No.1, p.19-28. Illus. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: This study describes a method for the prediction of fibrous aerosol size fractions generated during glass wool fibre production. Air samples were collected from the production areas of eight fibreglass facilities. For each air sample, total particle size distributions were measured using electron microscopy and two proportions were then calculated: fibres meeting the size criteria of the standard NIOSH method, and fibres meeting the size criteria for a biologically based exposure index, the hypothetically active fibre (HAFI) index. It was found that two factors, the nominal diameter of the bulk fibre product and whether oil was applied to it, determined more than 80% of the variations in the proportions. Using these two predicted proportions, it was possible to estimate the concentration of fibres in the biologically based HAFl size fraction from a standard fibre concentration measurement. (104389)
CIS 05-637 Acute inhalational exposure to chlorodifluromethane (Freon 22): A report of 43 cases. Kubota T., Miyata A., Journal of Toxicology - Clinical Toxicology, 2005, Vol.43, No.4. p.305-308. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: 43 cases of chlorodifluoromethane (Freon-22) intoxication occurred when a freezer in a seafood factory exploded. In this accident, 80 workers were exposed to Freon-22 gas and 43 workers developed symptoms and were hospitalized. Neurological symptoms including dizziness, headache, and nausea were the most frequently observed (40 of 43 patients). One patient was comatose but recovered within one hour with oxygen inhalation. Airway and respiratory symptoms including dysesthesia of the tongue, pharyngitis, and shortness of breath were also frequently observed (26 of 43 patients). These symptoms disappeared within a few days in all patients. There were no fatalities. Although Freon-22 has been considered to be a chlorofluorocarbon of relatively low toxicity, this incident suggests that potentially significant toxic effects may occur following large exposures. (104397)
CIS 05-638 Occupational asthma caused by cobalt chloride in a diamond polisher after cessation of occupational exposure: A case report. Krakowiak A., Dudek W., Tarkowski M., Świderska-Kiełbik S., Nieścierenko E., Pałczyński C., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2005, Vol.18, No.2, p.151-158. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: Occupational asthma caused by cobalt chloride was diagnosed in a 35-year-old patient, who worked as a diamond paste polishing disc former. He had been suffering for two years from dyspnoea, cough and symptoms of rhinitis. Skin prick tests (SPTs) with common environmental allergens were found to be negative, while SPTs with cobalt chloride were positive for all applied solutions. Provocation with cobalt chloride caused a significant increase in the proportion of eosinophils, basophils and albumin during the late allergic reaction. Positive lymphocyte transformation caused by cobalt was also observed. It is concluded that cobalt salts may induce occupational asthma; the mechanism may be IgE-mediated. (104400)
CIS 05-639 Occupational carbon monoxide poisonings: Results of a survey. (French: Intoxications oxycarbonées professionnelles: résultats d'une enquête) Richard C., Alary R., Delaunay C., Leprince A., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.102, p.191-213. 48 ref. (In French) Internet: The objective of this project was to analyse data on incidents of occupational carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the Paris police laboratory and from the medical literature. Topics covered: toxic effects of CO and diagnosis of CO poisoning; analysis of conditions leading to intoxication (type of equipment and fuel in use, type of work and workplace, ventilation); national and international statistics; preventive measures (occupational exposure limits). (104422)
CIS 05-640 How to create new deferred hazards - Wood treatment using insecticides and fungicides. (French: L'art de créer de nouveaux risques différés - Les traitements du bois par des fongicides et des insecticides) Andurand R., Préventique-Sécurité, May-June 2005, No.81, p.43-48. Illus. 7 ref. (In French) Internet: This article reviews the various techniques used to treat wood used for rail sleepers and electric line poles for protection against moulds. Currently, the main products used are creosote, as well as blends of salts labelled CCA (copper, chromium, arsenic) or CCB (copper, chromium, cobalt). The toxic hazards presented by these substances are reviewed, highlighting the particular hazards in the event of a fire. (104425)
CIS 05-641 Treatment of volatile organic compounds in the graphic arts sector. (French: Traitement des composés organiques volatils dans le secteur des industries graphiques) Marsteau S., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.199, p.55-64. Illus. 17 ref. (In French) Internet: This article describes the various processes used in the printing and graphic arts industries, provides an overview of the economic importance of the sector and considers the problem of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions with reference to both occupational health and environmental issues. Environmental regulations are examined and methods for reducing emissions during each printing process are described. (104429)
CIS 05-642 Exposures to glycol ethers: Current situation. (French: Exposition aux éthers de glycol: état des lieux) Cicolella A., Face au risque, May 2005, No.413, p.21-24. Illus. (In French) Internet: Glycol ethers are used in many areas, particularly in paints, but also in inks, varnishes and cutting fluids. Ethylene glycol derivatives (also known as E-series glycol ethers) are known to be genotoxic and to cause reproductive toxicity. Some products are carcinogens. They have been largely replaced by the less toxic propylene glycol derivatives (P-series glycol ethers). This article reviews the current situation with respect to occupational exposures to glycol ethers and examines resulting health hazards. Contents: European classification and regulations; official position of the Consumer Safety Commission regarding the full substitution of the E-series; kidney diseases; view of the chemical industry; recent research findings. (104435)
CIS 05-643 Chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathies and asthma in the construction industry. (French: Broncho-pneumopathies chroniques obstructives et asthme dans le secteur du bâtiment et des travaux publics) Brochard P., Fernet F., Pairon J.C., Ameille J., Revue de médecine du travail, May-June 2003, Vol.XXX, No.3, p.46-50. 27 ref. (In French) Internet: This literature survey indicated a lack of epidemiological data on chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathies (COBPs) and asthma in the construction industry, despite the established presence of numerous workplace contaminants known to cause or worsen these diseases. The article describes different types of air contaminants (particles, irritant gases and vapours) and outlines results of epidemiologic studies on COBPs and asthma in the construction industry. It is suggested that better use should be made of data collected by occupational physicians. (104438)
CIS 05-644 Chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathies and asthma in the construction industry: What means of prevention?. (French: Broncho-pneumopathies chroniques obstructives et asthme dans le BTP -Quelle prévention?) Frimat P., Revue de médecine du travail, May-June 2003, Vol.XXX, No.3, p.51-54. (In French) Internet: This article summarizes the two main approaches adopted in France for the prevention of chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathies (COBPs) and asthma in the construction industry, namely prevention by means of individual and collective technical measures and medical supervision. Contents: main principles of prevention (technical measures, individual protection, filtering equipment, supplied air respirators); medical prevention (medical supervision of healthy workers and workers with asthma or COBP). (104439)
CIS 05-645 Frequency and trends of occupational asthma due to toluene diisocyanate: A critical review. Diller W.F., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2002, Vol.17, No.12, p.872-877. Illus. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: Reports and statements on the frequency of occupational asthma due to isocyanates are contradictory. In order to clarify the issue, a critical review of the medical literature of the past half-century worldwide has been performed, with special emphasis on toluene diisocyanate (TDI) as the main representative of the isocyanate family. Nine longitudinal workplace studies of 2751 persons under risk allowed the calculation of incidences of occupational asthma due to TDI. Annual incidences were repeatedly above 5% before 1980, and have decreased to between 0 and 0.7% since 1980. Prevalences of occupational asthma due to TDI were estimated from ten cross-sectional studies, based on 788 persons. Prevalences were repeatedly above 10% before 1985, and have been mostly between 0 and 10% in recent years. (104322)
CIS 05-646 Effectiveness of skin protection creams as a preventive measure in occupational dermatitis: A critical update according to criteria of evidence-based medicine. Kütting B., Drexler H., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2003, Vol.76, No.4, p.253-259. 63 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey examines evidence for the effectiveness of the generally recommended three-step skin protection programme in the prevention of occupational skin disease (skin protection before work, cleaning and skincare after work). Data in the literature are conflicting: some publications report on the positive aspects of skin protection, others stress the negative ones. Not enough data have been accumulated to prove the benefit of skin protection measures under real workplace conditions. It is unclear whether the various in vitro and in vivo methods used are suitable for the simulation of workplace conditions and if these test results can be related to real occupational exposures. For the evidence-based recommendation of skin protection, further studies are needed that evaluate the contribution of each single element of the skincare programme (products, frequency of application and education programme) under daily working conditions. (104378)
CIS 05-647 Skin protection in nursing work: Promoting the use of gloves and hand alcohol. Jungbauer F.H.W., Van der Harst J.J., Groothoff J.W., Coenraads P.J., Contact Dermatitis, Sep. 2004, Vol.51, No.3, p.135-140. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: Exposure to skin irritants is a cause of occupational skin disease in nurses. In this study, the effectiveness of soap and water, alcohol-based hand rubs and gloves in prevention programmes was investigated. In particular, two recommended procedures were evaluated: use of alcohol-based hand rubs instead of soap and water in disinfection procedures when the hands are not visibly dirty, and use of gloves in wet activities such as patient washing. The effectiveness of these recommendations was investigated in healthy volunteers over a period of three weeks, five days a week. An increase in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) occurred with the regular prevention method, while mean TEWL decreased among subjects using the recommended method. Skin irritation from occlusion by gloves appeared to be more pronounced in the regular method compared to the recommended method. The results of this study justify the conclusion that in nursing work, alcohol-based hand rubs are the preferred disinfectants. (104385)
CIS 05-648 Controlling exposure to metalworking fluids. Martin T.J., Occupational Hazards, May 2005, Vol.67, No.5, p.48-51. Illus. (In English) Internet: The smoky haze in machining shops generally consists of metalworking fluid (MWF) mists and vapours and carries the potential for a variety of serious health problems. This article summarizes the most important occupational health issues and preventive measures related to MWFs. Contents: types of MWF most commonly used; health hazards (contact dermatitis, cancer, lung disorders including asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis); exposure controls (local exhaust ventilation, use of protective gloves, microbial control and monitoring); NIOSH and OSHA guidelines. (104393)
CIS 05-649 Documentation of the risks in hazardous material transfer centres. (French: Documentation des risques dans les centres de transfert des matières dangereuses résiduelles) Roberge B., Baril M., Bariteau C., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. i, 21p. 12 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22696-1 (In French) Internet: In recent years, the residual hazardous materials sector, including activities related to industrial cleaning, has been the scene of several occupational accidents, some of them fatal. This study results from a request from the Comité paritaire de l'environnement (CPE, joint environmental committee), consisting of representatives of the Quebec Commission for Occupational Safety and Health (CSST) and sector professionals. Health and safety hazards and risk factors in residual hazardous material transfer centres were investigated by documenting the procedures and equipment used, materials treated, the chemical, microbiological and ergonomic risks faced by workers, safety measures in place and safety training offered. The documentation thus produced provides the managers of hazardous residual material treatment centres with useful tools for implementing preventive measures. (104442)
CIS 05-650 Characterization of bioaerosols in dental surgeries. (French: Caractérisation des bioaérosols en cabinets dentaires) Duchaine C., Dutil S., Mériaux A., de Latrémoille M.C., Leduc A., Lazure L., Barbeau J., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. iv, 46p. Illus. 51 ref. Price: CAD 6.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22700-3 (In French) Internet: The use of high-speed instruments such as turbines, ultrasonic descalers and air-water spray guns results in significant concentrations of bioaerosols being emitted into dental surgery environments. This study examined bioaerosol production and the composition and dispersion of these aerosols into the environment. It was found that under certain conditions, dental surgery staff and patients may be exposed to microorganisms present in the air, particularly bacteria from the mouth and from the water units. Repeated exposure of personnel suggests that there is a probable risk of contact between bacteria-containing aerosols and the respiratory system. With minimal ventilation, stopping treatments for two hours appears sufficient for the bioaerosol concentration to return to the level measured before treatment. The effectiveness of wearing a mask as a tool for exposure prevention remains to be determined. (104403)
CIS 05-651 Development of a ventilator test procedure to take account of external wind conditions. Bullman S., Chan N., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. vi, 105p. Illus. Price: GBP 30.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2925-2 (In English) Internet: This project investigated the viability of enhancing an existing ventilator test procedure to account for the presence of a wind. Test results showed considerable variation in vent performance when vents were subjected to crosswind flows across a range of face angles. Many designs exhibited strong variation with face angle, while some exhibited significant effective area reductions when the crosswind was introduced. The present findings indicate that the maximum bulk wind speed required for an assessment of vent performance is 21 m/s. Measurements should be taken at five face angles of -90°, -45°, 0°, 45° and 90°. In conclusion, the test procedure described here should form the basis for the characterization of vent units with cowls that are currently available and those that seek BSI approval in the future. (104331)
CIS 05-652 Biological monitoring guide - Sample collection and interpretation of results. (French: Guide de surveillance biologique - Prélèvement et interprétation des résultats) Truchon G., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 6th ed., 2004. viii, 92p. Bibl.ref. Price: CAD 14.00. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22624-4 (In French) Internet: This guide is aimed at occupational health professionals in Quebec. It provides information concerning sampling procedures and data interpretation for the biological monitoring of exposure (BME). It consists of two parts: a technical section which includes a list of toxicological analyses available at IRSST and information on procedures concerning sampling, shipment of samples and the communication of results; and a second section which summarizes all relevant scientific knowledge on the interpretation of BME results for 39 substances. (104291)
CIS 05-653 Sampling guide for air contaminants at the workplace. (French: Guide d'échantillonnage des contaminants de l'air en milieu de travail) Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 8th rev. ed., 2005. viii, 191p. Illus. 51 ref. Price: CAD 16.00. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22685-6 (In French) Internet: This guide describes methods for measuring workers' exposure to gases, fumes, vapours or dusts to enable the implementation of control measures. The modifications and additions to this eighth edition take into account recent developments in workplaces and the Quebec health and safety regulations. The chapter on sampling strategy has been extended to include the requirements of occupational safety and health regulations (Règlement sur la santé et la sécurité du travail - RSST). A new section entitled "compliance with the RSST permissible exposure values" (PEVs) clearly states the invariable nature of PEVs in relation to temperature and pressure. This change led to substantial modifications to the chapters on pumps, flow meters and calibration. The sections on direct-reading instruments, analysis of respirable compressed air, microbiology and surface tests were also updated. Replaces CIS 95-2204. (104292)
CIS 05-654 Guide for the adjustment of permissible exposure values (PEVs) for unusual work schedules. Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2nd rev. ed., 2004. 25p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: CAD 4.50. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22644-9 (In English) Internet: The joint committee responsible for the revision of Annexe A of the Regulation Concerning the Quality of the Work Environment (Règlement québécois sur la qualité du milieu de travail - RQMT) mandated the IRSST to prepare a guide for the adjustment of time-weighted averages (TWAs) for non-traditional work schedules, using the Institute's research report of 1997 as a starting point and taking into account the committee's suggested modifications. This guide is a result of these efforts. It explains how to adjust the TWAs of each of the substances listed in the RQMT for work schedules other than the traditional one of eight hours per day, five days per week. (104293)
CIS 05-655 Quantification of biological variability - Data update. (French: Quantification de la variabilité biologique - Mise à jour des données) Hamelin G., Tardif R., Truchon G., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2004. iv, 45p. Illus. 41 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22609-0 (In French) Internet: As a complement to environmental monitoring, biological monitoring aims to better document and control the exposure of workers to various chemical substances. In a prior project, toxicokinetic modelling was used to quantify the variability of factors that have an impact on the biological exposure indicators of substances appearing in the IRSST's biological monitoring guide. However, the standards or values of the biological exposure indicators of seven of these substances have since been modified and a new substance has been added to the list. Taking these changes into account, the same method was applied to develop new toxicokinetic models for the relevant substances. These updated data have been integrated into the IRSST's guide, which allows health practitioners to better adapt their sampling strategies to different workplaces. (104294)
CIS 05-656 Smoking and the workplace. Blanpain R., ed., Kluwer Law International, P.O.Box 85889, 2508 CN The Hague, Netherlands, 2005. xii, 254p. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 80.00., ISBN 90-411-2325-3 (In English) Internet: This publication examines the attempts being made worldwide to control the level of tobacco smoke in the workplace environment. Among the many aspects discussed are legislation, company policies, litigation, occupational safety and health, the world tobacco industry, ILO policies on workplace smoking, European Union policies on tobacco and health and the question of the right to smoke. It includes chapters summarizing the situation in 13 countries (Belarus, Belgium, Brazil, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, USA). (104308)
CIS 05-657 Silicosis, silica and lung cancer: Meta-analysis of medical literature. (French: Silicose, silice et cancer du poumon: méta-analyse de la littérature médicale) Lacasse Y., Martin S., Desmeules M., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. iv, 91p. Illus. 128 ref. + CD-ROM. Price: CAD 10.70. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22697-X (In French) Internet: Despite significant efforts to limit exposure to silica, 494 new cases of silicosis were diagnosed in Quebec between 1988 and 2003. While the CSST acknowledges the existence of a relationship between silica exposure and certain cases of lung cancer, this view is not unanimously accepted by lung specialists. This study examines the literature concerning the relationship between silicosis, exposure to silica and lung cancer. Findings suggest that there is an increased risk of death due to lung cancer in silicotic persons. The data published to date also suggest that silica exposure represents a low risk factor for lung cancer at exposure concentrations that exceed the permitted limit based on North American standards. These results are broadly in agreement with the conclusions of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (104401)
CIS 05-658 Ethical aspects of the use of biomarkers in occupational health. (French: Les aspects éthiques de l'utilisation des bioindicateurs en santé au travail) Caux C., Viau C., Guilbert L., Roy D.J., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. iv, 79p. Illus. 76 ref. Price: CAD 7.49. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22698-8 (In French) Internet: Some workers are exposed to products that are potentially harmful to their health. For a better understanding of the relationship between exposure and potential health hazards, three types of biomarker are available: biomarkers of exposure, effect and susceptibility. The use of biomarkers raises ethical questions. The purpose of this study was to better understand the context of this practice, as perceived by various groups engaged in occupational health. It explores aspects that should receive particular attention during the evaluation of ethical issues inherent in the use of occupational health biomarkers. (104402)
CIS 05-659 Measurement of carbon monoxide emissions from hot air generators used on construction sites. (French: Mesure des émissions de monoxyde de carbone des générateurs d'air chaud utilisés sur les chantiers de construction) Brunet S., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 8p. Illus. 1 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22725-9 (In French) Internet: This report describes laboratory measurements of the carbon monoxide (CO) emitted by four hot air generators of different powers supplied by rental companies. Owing to the variability in the measurements obtained, an emission value of 15g of CO/100,000 BTU is recommended for evaluating the air quality on construction sites. The high temperature of some generators may also represent a risk for workers. Several observations were made about the general condition of the equipment that can represent a risk. It is emphasized that only persons with the required competency certificate may connect a hot air generator to propane tanks or to the natural gas network. (104405)
CIS 05-660 Management of occupational manganism - Consensus of an experts' panel. (French: Prise en charge du manganisme d'origine professionnelle - Consensus d'un groupe international d'experts) Ostiguy C., Asselin P., Malo S., Nadeau D., DeWals P., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. vii, 56p. 202 ref. Price: CAD 7.49. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22739-9 (fr), ISBN 2-551-22740-2 (en) (In English, French) Internet: In response to a request from the Quebec Commission for Occupational Safety and Health (Commission pour la santé et la sécurité du travail - CSST), a literature review was undertaken on the possible health effects (mainly to the nervous system) resulting from occupational exposure to manganese. This metal is present in high concentrations in the air of mines and foundries. Claims have also been made to the CSST by workers exposed to this substance during operations to weld steel to manganese. This report describes the process of manganese assimilation by the body, its biomarkers and its various health effects. It also compares the standards and recommendations for guidelines of various organizations. Current Quebec standards are similar to American, British and Australian standards. Organizations and groups of researchers in this field favour making them more restrictive in order to take into account the early effects on the central nervous system. (104407)
CIS 05-661 Identification and quantification of isocyanates generated in the thermal degradation of polyurethane-based automobile paint. (French: Identification et quantification des isocyanates générés lors de la dégradation thermique d'une peinture automobile à base de polyuréthane) Boutin M., Lesage J., Ostiguy C., Bertrand M.J., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 60p. Illus. 115 ref. Price: CAD 6.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22741-0 (In French) Internet: Most car paints consist of polyurethanes, polymers obtained by reacting isocyanates with alcohols. During their thermal degradation, polyurethanes may regenerate isocyanates, which can cause asthma, dermatitis, conjunctivitis and acute poisonings. Workers may be exposed to the thermal degradation products of car paints during welding, milling or cutting operations on car body parts. This report presents a systemic approach for studying the thermal degradation process of polyurethanes, in particular the formation of isocyanates and their emission into the air. The results obtained in the laboratory led to the identification of the isocyanates likely to be generated during combustion of the paint. This approach can be used to study the thermal degradation of other polymers such as rubber, polyvinyl chloride and formaldehyde-based polymers. (104408)
CIS 05-662 Development of a highly sensitive analytical method for isocyanates. (French: Développement d'une méthode d'analyse d'isocyanates à très haute sensibilité) Ostiguy C., Gagné S., Lesage J., Van Tra H., Cloutier Y., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 44p. Illus. 82 ref. Price: CAD 6.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22745-3 (In French) Internet: Isocyanates are lung and skin irritants and sensitizers that can cause many diseases, occupational asthma being the most serious. Current methods for determining these substances are often of limited use due to their inadequate sensitivity. This report describes the development of an analytical method to detect low levels of isocyanate in industrial settings. It is based on high-pressure liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Sampling is carried out with single-membrane reactive cassettes. The method provides a useful tool for making decisions regarding appropriate personal protective equipment, safer work organization, reassignment of sensitized workers and identification of levels of non-reacted isocyanates in various materials. (104409)
CIS 05-663 Evaluation of human exposure to organophosphates and the associated risks by means of urinary biomarkers. (French: Evaluation de l'exposition humaine aux organophosphorés et des risques associés à l'aide de biomarqueurs urinaires) Carrier G., Brunet R.C., Bouchard M., Gosselin N.H., Dumoulin M.J., Bonvalot Y., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. vii, 73p. Illus. 93 ref. Price: CAD 7.49. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22699-6 (In French) Internet: Approximately 200 organophosphates are sold as insecticides and used by workers in agriculture, horticulture, public health pest control, forestry, landscape maintenance and various other sectors. No method currently exists for estimating the quantity actually absorbed following occupational exposure to these substances. Using modelling and a review of existing data, a simple and effective screening tool capable of detecting exposure levels below those causing toxic effects was developed. It consists of a urine biomarker test that evaluates the quantity of organophosphate actually absorbed by the worker. It may be used for prevention programmes, for developing exposure evaluation protocols and for establishing re-entry times after organophosphate exposure. (104449)
CIS 05-664 Review of the literature on the use of asbestos fibres in bituminous coatings. (French: Revue de littérature sur l'utilisation de fibres d'amiante dans les enrobés bitumineux) Perrault G., Dion C., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 20p. Illus. 12 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22726-7 (In French) Internet: This literature survey on workers' exposure during the use of asbestos fibres in bituminous coatings is based on a critical analysis of scientific and technical articles and reports. The objective was to document the potential level of exposure of workers during operations related to the entire life cycle of asbestos-containing bituminous coatings: manufacture, use, recycling and disposal and dispersion into the environment. Possible exposures to other substances present in the bitumen were also examined. Recommendations on the implementation of an environmental surveillance programme for bituminous coatings are proposed. (104450)
CIS 05-665 Benchmarking employee supervisory processes in the chemical industry. Fuller C., Vassie L., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. x, 61p. Illus. 60 ref. Price: GBP 15.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2960-0 (In English) Internet: This study assessed the key inputs to and outputs from supervisory processes used in the chemical industry and examined the benchmarking of different forms of supervision in a crosssection of U.K. chemical companies. It involved discussions with representative bodies for the chemical industry and managers, supervisors and operators within a number of companies together with a literature review and a questionnaire survey. The study showed that a hierarchical style of company leadership was predominant. Self-managed teams were deployed in only a small proportion of companies and were more likely to be used for low-risk activities. Enterprises were generally satisfied with the outputs from their current method of supervision. (104333)
CIS 05-666 Application of synthetic resins by building and construction enterprises - Prevention of chemical hazards. (French: Application de résines synthétiques par les entreprises du BTP - Prévention des risques chimiques) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 2005. 39p. Illus. 37 ref. Price: EUR 6.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1296-6 (In French) Internet: The coating of concrete floors or metallic vessels and tanks with synthetic resins is a widespread process in the building and construction industry. The variety of chemicals and the manner in which they are handled represent potential risk factors. This guide describes an approach for identifying these hazards and implementing preventive measures. Contents: hazard evaluation (hazard identification, task observation, fire and explosion hazards); preventive measures on construction sites (product selection, site preparation, work planning). Appendices include: main types of synthetic resins used; properties of selected solvents; exposure evaluation; work in confined spaces; respirator selection; selection of protective gloves. (104299)
CIS 05-667 Crystalline silica in respirable airborne dusts - Direct-on-filter analyses by infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Feb. 2005. 16p. Illus. 41 ref. Price: GBP 15.00. Downloadable version free of charge, ISBN 0-7176-2897-3 (In English) Internet: The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH, see CIS 03-1023) specify a maximum exposure limit of 0.3g/m3 (8h TWA) for airborne crystalline silica dust. This method may be used for exposure evaluation and regular workplace monitoring. It is based on direct sampling of respirable dust on a membrane filter, which is then placed directly into the beam of an infrared spectrometer or X-ray powder diffractometer. The methods for sampling, instrument calibration, carrying out the analyses and calculating the results are described. Replaces CIS 88-951, CIS 89-950 and CIS 94-1343. (104307)
CIS 05-668 Anti-poison centres: mission and mode of operation. (French: Centres antipoison: vocation et modalités de fonctionnement) de Haro L., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.147, 8p. 30 ref. (In French) Internet: This article covers the history, regulations, mission and organization of the ten French anti-poison centres. Their main mission is to provide emergency toxicological information over the phone for both the general public and health care professionals. This task is fulfilled by specially-qualified physicians, 24h a day, and enables considerable savings in health care costs by preventing inappropriate visits to hospital emergency services. Other related missions include educating the general population on matters relating to hygiene, the prevention of accidents, providing expert evidence in toxicological matters, toxicological vigilance, education and research in clinical toxicology, and collaboration with regional pharmacological vigilance centres and drug dependence evaluation and information centres. (104311)
CIS 05-669 Toxicity of lead and its derivatives. (French: Toxicité du plomb et de ses dérivés) Garnier F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.147, 15p. Illus. 95 ref. (In French) Internet: Lead is among the most ancient and widely-used metals. Occupational exposures remain important. The release of scales or dusts during the painting of old and poorly-maintained wallcovering is the cause of frequent cases of lead poisoning among children in many countries, including France. In regions where the mineral content of drinking water is low, it can absorb various metals, including lead. This article describes cases of poisoning by inorganic and organic lead compounds. Topics covered: sources and means of exposure; toxicokinetics of lead; acute and chronic toxic effects, including carcinogenicity and reproductive health effects; procedures for screening, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of childhood lead poisoning; principles of medical supervision for workers exposed to lead; treatment and compensation of work-related poisonings. (104312)
CIS 05-670 Electrical and electronic equipment waste. (French: Déchets d'équipements électriques et électroniques) Chollot A., Rodriguez C., Courtois B., Dornier G., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 2005. 4p. Illus. 9 ref. Price: EUR 1.50. Downloadable version free of charge. (In French) Internet: According to European Directive 75/442/EEC, electrical and electronic equipment waste (EEEW) includes all components, sub-assemblies and consumer products that constitute the equipment at the time of its scrapping. By the end of 2006, it will be required to recover 4kg of EEEW per inhabitant per year and recycling rates will have to reach over 70% depending on the type of waste. As a result, new waste processing chains are being set up, involving tasks that are potentially harmful to workers' health. Contents of this information sheet: types of EEEW; description of the waste processing stream; occupational hazards (dusts, chemical hazards, biological hazards); preventive measures, regulations, research by INRS on the topic. (104313)
CIS 05-671 1,3-Butadiene in air - Laboratory method using diffusive samplers, thermal desorption and gas chromatography. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2rd ed., Mar. 2005. 12p. 25 ref. Price: GBP 13.50., ISBN 0-7176-2898-1 (In English) Internet: This revised analytical method describes the sampling of 1,3-butadiene in air using diffusive samplers, thermal desorption and gas chromatography. The main changes with respect to the earlier edition are the restriction of the maximum diffusive sampling time to 10 hours when using Molecular Sieve 13X sorbent and the addition of validation data for Molecular Sieve 13X and uptake rate data for graphitized carbon sorbents. The method can be used for the determination of personal exposure or for fixed location monitoring. Replaces the previous edition (CIS 91-585). (104339)
CIS 05-672 Tolerable biological limit values (TBLVs): Changes. (French: Valeurs biologiques tolérables (VBT): changements; German: Biologische Arbeitsstofftoleranzwerte (BAT-Werte) - Neuerungen) Jost M., Pletscher C., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, Spring 2003, No.74, p.56-66. 8 ref. (In French, German) Internet: Biological monitoring constitutes an important complement to the monitoring of workplace air for evaluating the exposure of workers to harmful substances. The determination of a substance or its metabolites in biological matter allows the estimation of internal loads, taking into account all modes of absorption into the body. Contents of this article on tolerable biological limit values (TBLVs): usefulness of biological monitoring; definition of TBLV; load among occupationally-unexposed populations; list of TBL values; comment on substances for which TBLVs were revised in 2003 (lead and its inorganic compounds, inorganic mercury, aluminium, manganese and its inorganic compounds, styrene, other organic solvents); biological monitoring in the context of medical supervision. (104346)
CIS 05-673 Toxicological evaluations. (German: Toxicologische Bewertungen) Berufsgenossenschaft der chemischen Industrie, Postfach 10 14 80, 69004 Heidelberg, Germany, 2000. Binder containing 20 documents. Approx. 600p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In German) Internet: Toxicological evaluations for 20 chemicals. Each evaluation covers the following aspects: summary and overall assessment; name of the substance; synonyms and trade names; chemical structure and formula; manufacture, production volumes and uses; experimental toxicology; studies on humans; threshold limit values; occupational medicine recommendations. (104359)
CIS 05-674 A comprehensive guide to managing asbestos in premises. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov. 2002. viii, 104p. Illus. 23 ref. Price: GBP 12.50., ISBN 0-7176-2381-5 (In English) Internet: Aimed at people who have a duty to manage the risks from asbestos-containing materials in premises, this guide gives an overview of the actions that may need to be taken. Contents: flow chart of the seven steps of asbestos management; health effects of asbestos; development of an asbestos managing strategy and four case studies of companies who have implemented an asbestos policy. In appendices: guidance for planning surveys, survey report, material assessment, priority assessment and management options. (104411)
CIS 05-675 The management of asbestos in non-domestic premises - Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002 - Approved code of practice and guidance. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2002. iv, 27p. 20 ref. Price: GBP 9.50., ISBN 0-7176-2382-3 (In English) Internet: This guide gives advice on how to comply with Regulation 4 of the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002 on the management of asbestos in non domestic premises. It explains the duties of building owners, tenants and all other persons with legal responsibilities for such premises. (104412)
CIS 05-676 Work with asbestos which does not normally require a licence (Fourth edition) - Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002 - Approved code of practice and guidance. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2002. vi, 49p. Illus. 35 ref. Price: GBP 9.50., ISBN 0-7176-2562-1 (In English) Internet: This approved code of practice applies to work with asbestos which normally does not require an HSE licence. Part one gives general advice on complying with the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002, and part two gives specific advice on controlling asbestos exposure during manufacturing processes. (104417)
CIS 05-677 Fumigation - Health and safety guidance for employers and technicians carrying out fumigation operations. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2005. iv, 23p. Illus. 30 ref. Price: GBP 8.95., ISBN 0-7176-2999-6 (In English) Internet: Fumigation is a potentially hazardous process which involves the use of toxic gases to kill pests. This guide is aimed at employers and technicians carrying out fumigation operations as well as at safety representatives. Topics covered: qualifications and duties of technicians; risk assessment of the fumigation operation; procedures common to all fumigations; preparing for fumigation; health records and health surveillance; extra precautions for different application methods and different types of fumigations; emergency measures. (104418)
CIS 05-678 Complete database of accident prevention directives of the German Mutual Occupational Accident Insurance Association on CD-ROM. (German: BGVR Gesamtausgabe) Carl Heymanns Verlag KG, Luxemburgerstrasse 449, 50939 Köln, Germany, 23rd ed., 2004. CD-ROM., ISBN 3-452-23845-8 (In German) Internet: This CD-ROM contains the full text of German safety and health directives, technical rules and other German occupational safety and health guidance documents published by the Mutual Accident Insurance Associations. For the previous edition, see CIS 02-645. (104360)
CIS 05-679 Fire safety in the European Union. (Spanish: Seguridad contra incendios en la Unión Europea) Lacosta Berna J.M., Mapfre seguridad, 1st Quarter 2005, Vol.25, No.97, p.29-39. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This article describes the current situation with respect to fire prevention legislation and safety standards in the European Union. Contents: historical background; definition of Euroclasses (classification of construction materials according to their fire characteristics); description of fire tests to be carried out on various building materials (wallcovering, roofing, flooring and floorcovering); flash-over parameters; room corner test; sample and test preparation; contents of the future Spanish Technical Construction Code (Código technico de la edificación - CTE) (104318)
CIS 05-680 Dust explosion hazard of pulverized fuel carry-over. Amyotte P.R., Basu A., Khan F.I., Journal of Hazardous Materials, June 2005, Vol.122, No.1-2. p.23-30. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: The results of experiments carried out to examine the explosibility of the waste products (fly ash and bottom ash) from pulverized fuels (coal and petroleum coke) are presented. Tests were conducted for the fly and bottom ashes alone and also for selected fly ashes blended with the fuels. The explosion parameters of interest were explosion pressure and rate of pressure rise. The fly ashes showed no propensity to explode, whereas one of the bottom ashes did show limited explosibility. Both findings can be explained with reference to the volatile matter content of the ashes. Admixture of either coal or petroleum coke with fly ash resulted in explosible mixtures at volatile contents in the range of 7-13%, with the value being dependent on the composition of the mixture components and their particle sizes. (104394)
CIS 05-681 Flammability of gas mixtures Part I: Fire potential. Schröder V., Molnarne M., Journal of Hazardous Materials, May 2005, Vol.121, No.1-3. p.37-44. Illus. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: International and European dangerous substances and dangerous goods regulations refer to the standard ISO 10156 (1996). This standard includes a test method and a calculation procedure for the determination of the flammability of gases and gas mixtures in air. The substance indices needed for the calculation are the so-called "Tci values", which characterize the fire potential of a flammable gas. In this stduy, internationally-accepted explosion limit test methods were evaluated and Tci values were derived from explosion diagrams. These values were compared with the Tci values listed in ISO 10156. In most cases, significant deviations were found. A detailed study on the influence of inert gases on flammability is published separately (see CIS 05-682). (104395)
CIS 05-682 Flammability of gas mixtures Part 2: Influence of inert gases. Molnarne M., Mizsey P., Schröder V., Journal of Hazardous Materials, May 2005, Vol.121, No.1-3. p.45-49. Illus. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: Systems containing flammable gas, inert gas and air were studied to evaluate the ISO 10156 method for calculating the flammability of gas mixtures. The fire potential of flammable gases was the focal point of a separate article (see CIS 05-681), while this article discusses the influence of inert gases on the flammability of gas mixtures. The estimated results given by ISO 10156 were compared with measurements based on the German standard DIN 51649-1. The comparison shows that ISO 10156 supplies conservative values, which can be regarded as safe in all cases. However, in a number of cases, ISO underestimates the inerting capacity so that non-flammable gas mixtures are considered to be flammable. (104396)
CIS 05-683 Lessons from Longford: The trial. Hopkins A., ed., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Dec. 2002, Vol.18, No.6, p.1-72 (whole issue). Bibl.ref. Index. (In English) Internet: This special issue details the legal consequences of the explosion at a gas plant in 1998 in Longford, near Melbourne, Australia, and in particular the criminal trial which took place in 2001 which ruled that the operator of the plant had failed in its duty of care to its employees under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1985 (CIS 88-1751). Topics covered: introduction; the charges; the company's defence; sentencing; learning from Longford; new bill on corporate manslaughter; conclusion. The complete sentence is included in an appendix. (104340)
CIS 05-684 Dealing with near-miss major incidents - Experiences at nitrogenous compounds plant "Puławy S.A.". (Polish: Postępowanie ze zdarzeniami prawie wypadkowymi - doświadczenia Zakładów Azotowych "Puławy" S.A.) Bajor R., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, Jan. 2003, No.1, p.14-16. Illus. (In Polish) Internet: This article describes the way in which the management of occupational safety and health was modernized in the largest nitrogenous fertilizer manufacturer in Poland, focusing on the system for analyzing near-miss major incidents. Contents include a definition of near-miss incidents, procedures to be adopted in the event of a near-miss incident and the procedures for investigating the causes of these incidents. (104278)
CIS 05-685 An experimental investigation of bund wall overtopping and dynamic pressures on the bund wall following catastrophic failure of a storage vessel. Atherton W., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. viii, 246p. Illus. 5 ref. Price: GBP 25.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2988-0 (In English) Internet: This report describes the development of a laboratory facility to conduct tests simulating the sudden failure of a tank used for the bulk storage of hazardous liquids. Such failures are rare. However, experience has shown that when they do occur, a large proportion of the liquid is likely to escape over the surrounding bund wall or embankment, even if the force of the wave impact does not damage the retaining structures. The facility will be of value to the Health and Safety Execxutive in the performance of its statutory duties, and may be of value to tank storage operators in their consideration of the extent and severity of foreseeable major accidents, in risk assessments and in consideration of practical measures to reduce these risks. (104336)
CIS 05-686 ATEX - Implementation of the regulations on explosive atmospheres - Methodological guide. (French: ATEX - Mise en œuvre de la réglementation relative aux atmosphères explosives - Guide méthodologique) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Feb. 2005. 31p. Illus. 7 ref. Price: EUR 6.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1297-4 (In French) Internet: The European Union has adopted two directives on explosive atmospheres (referred to as the "ATEX" directives) which came into effect on 1 July 2003. This publication provides the necessary information for implementing these regulations. It proposes an implementation approach together with several examples of preventive or protective measures against explosion hazards. (104300)
CIS 05-687 Manufacture and storage of explosives - Manufacture and Storage of Explosives Regulations 2005 - Approved code of practice and guidance. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, May 2005. vi, 218p. Illus. 50 ref. Price: GBP 20.95., ISBN 0-7176-2816-7 (In English) Internet: This approved code of practice gives guidance on how to comply to the Manufacture and Storage of Explosives Regulations 2005. Topics covered: introduction to the Regulations; safety requirements; licensing and registration requirements; prohibitions concerning certain explosives and miscellaneous provisions. (104420)
CIS 05-688 Fire detection and alarm systems on fishing vessels. Fishing Vessel Safety Branch, The Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Spring Place, 105 Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1EG, United Kingdom, Jan. 2005. 3p. (In English) Internet: This note provides guidance on the selection and location of fire detectors and alarms on board fishing vessels. Types of detectors are listed and recommendations are given for different size vessels. (104475)
CIS 05-689 International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. International Maritime Organization, 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, United Kingdom, 2004. (In English) Internet: Internet page dedicated to the detailed description of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, which was developed as a uniform international code for the transport of dangerous goods by sea. It covers: classification of dangerous substances; packing and tank provisions; consignment procedures; construction and testing of packagings, portable tanks and road tank vehicles; transport operations. A supplement contains information on related topics, including medical first aid, reporting procedures and the safe use of pesticides. The IMDG Code is mandatory as from 1 January 2004. (104496)
CIS 05-690 Keeping electrical switchgear safe. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Oct. 2002. iv, 48p. Illus. 38 ref. Price: GBP 9.50., ISBN 0-7176-2359-9 (In English) Internet: Failure of electrical switchgear can cause death, serious injury and major damage. This guide is aimed at owners and operators of electrical switchgear in industrial or commercial organizations. It provides guidance on their responsibilities and duties in the selection, use and maintenance of high-voltage and low-voltage switchgear. (104413)
CIS 05-691 Application of genetic algorithms for active noise attenuation. (Polish: Zastosowanie algorytmów genetycznych do aktywnej redukcji hałasu) Makarewicz G., Zawieska M. W., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, Jan. 2003, No.1, p.4-6. Illus. 5 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Although genetic algorithms originate in biological sciences, they are increasingly used in different technical disciplines. This article presents the concept of an elementary genetic algorithm. Some possibilities for applying genetic algorithms to active noise reduction are described. (104276)
CIS 05-692 Short daily exposure to hand-arm vibrations in Swedish car mechanics. Barregård L., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2003, Vol.18, No.1, p.35-40. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of the study was to examine the daily exposure times to hand-arm vibrations in Swedish car mechanics, to test a sampling method for estimating the exposure time and to use the results for predicting the prevalence of vibration-induced white finger (VWF) by the ISO 5349 model. A total of 51 mechanics working in six garages were observed, most of them on two different working days, yielding estimates for 95 days. The median effective exposure time was ten minutes per day, and most of the exposure time was attributable to fastening and loosening nuts. The within-worker and between-worker variability was high. Based on these observations, the ISO 5349 model predicts that only 3% of the car mechanics will suffer from VWF after 20 years of exposure. In contrast, a recent survey of VWF among car mechanics showed the prevalence to be 25%. These differences are discussed and proposals are made for improved observation. (104327)
CIS 05-693 Computer guide for selecting compressed air exhaust silencers. (French: Guide informatisé pour le choix des silencieux d'échappement d'air comprimé) Trompette N., Cafaxe M., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.199, p.9-20. Illus. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: Many machines incorporate compressed air actuators, whose exhausts often generate a high noise level. One way of reducing this noise is to use exhaust silencers. Inclusion of a silencer prolongs exhaust time so that, when selecting a silencer, it is necessary to know its exhaust prolongation time and to compare this with the acoustic attenuation provided. The acoustic and pneumatic characteristics of 97 silencers of four different dimensions were measured on a test bench and formed the basis of a catalogue in CD-ROM form that allows the selection of a compressed air silencer according to several criteria. The catalogue provides a tool for the reduction of noise at source from these machines. (104426)
CIS 05-694 Assessing compliance with 60-Hertz magnetic-field exposure guidelines. Patterson R.M., Bracken T.D., Alldredge J.R., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Feb. 2005, Vol.2, No.2, p.77-85. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Practical guidance for assessing compliance with exposure limits for magnetic fields in the extremely low frequency range (3 to 3000 hertz) is limited. To fill this gap, a statistically-based sampling and analysis methodology using 60-Hertz exposures in the electric utility industry as a model was developed. Using this methodology, specific compliance probabilities and their confidence intervals were estimated for various electric utility scenarios from available personal exposure measurements. This example of the application of the methodology showed that compliance with existing exposure limits may become an issue for certain tasks. (104387)
CIS 05-695 Occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields. (French: Exposition professionnelle aux champs électromagnétiques) Ganem Y., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.102, p.225-233. Illus. (In French) Internet: Directive 2004/40/EC (CIS 03-1039) on occupational exposures to electrical, magnetic and electromagnetic fields was the focus of this meeting organized by French Radiation Protection Society and held in Paris, France, on 15 December 2004. Topics addressed: types of occupational exposure; physical and biological basis for the Directive; specific absorption and thermal effects; biological effects of very low frequency fields and of radiofrequencies; recommendations of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP); dosimetry and precision of measurements; radiofrequency metrology and uncertainties; implications for industries using radiofrequencies. (104423)
CIS 05-696 Noise in educational institutions - Causes and reduction. (German: Lärm in Bildungsstätten - Ursachen und Minderung) Schönwalder H.G., Berndt J., Ströver F., Tiesler G., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2004. 149p. Illus. 33 ref. Price: EUR 14.50., ISBN 3-86509-210-1 (In German) Internet: This report presents the results of a study of noise levels carried out at four primary schools and one secondary school. Measurements included acoustical characteristics and noise levels during 565 hours of classes. Two observers also noted events that gave rise to noise. Findings show that only a few classes met noise level standards. The noise level in classrooms was 50-60dB(A) and sometimes exceeded 80dB(A). Voice was the dominant form of noise. Three classrooms were renovated in order to meet current standards. Architectural measures make it possible to significantly reduce noise levels; however, they should also be accompanied by efforts to train pupils to adopt less noisy behaviour. (104351)
CIS 05-697 Testing of newly-developed vibration models for seated persons by means of a round-robin test. (German: Erprobung neuentwickelter Schwingungsmodelle des sitzenden Menschen mittels Round-Robin-Test) Riedel S., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2004. 109p. Illus. 21 ref. Price: EUR 12.00., ISBN 3-86509-209-8 (In German) Internet: This interlaboratory test was carried out to evaluate the use of models for measuring vibrations in sitting postures so as to improve the precision of the measurements while avoiding vibration exposures to human subjects. For this purpose, laboratory and field studies of vibration properties (seat transmission factor) were carried out on subjects of three different weights (55, 75 and 98kg) as well as on models of equivalent weight. Laboratory measurements involved four types of vehicle seat, while field trials were carried out on a tractor and on a tracked vehicle. Results indicate that simple models can be used for the standardized testing of seats. However, total agreement with findings obtained with human subjects is not possible, even when using optimized parameters. (104352)
CIS 05-698 Disposal of nuclear fuel - Basic risk evaluation. (Finnish: Käytetyn ydinpolttoaineen huolto: Turvallisuuden arvioinnin perusteet) Rasilainen K., Suolanen V., Vuori S., Valtion teknillinen tutkimuskeskus (VTT), Vuorimiehentie 5, PL 2000, 02044 VTT, Finland, 2000. 57p. Illus. 52 ref. Price: EUR 35.00., ISBN 951-38-5673-9 (In Finnish) Internet: The Finnish experience in the transporting and disposal of radioactive waste from nuclear reactors. (104451)
CIS 05-699 National infrastructures for radiation safety - Towards effective and sustainable systems. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wagramerstrasse 5, P.O. Box 100, 1400 Wien, Austria, 2004. xii, 449p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 120.00. + CD-ROM including full texts of contributed papers in PDF format. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 92-0-105404-1 (In English) Internet: Proceedings of a conference on national infrastructures for radiation safety held in Rabat, Morocco, 1-5 September 2003. The conference provided a forum for the discussion of issues arising from the question of how to build and maintain effective and sustainable national and international radiation safety infrastructures, with special reference to the IAEA technical cooperation Model Projects. The conference highlighted the central issues that need to be addressed with respect to the safety and security of radiation sources. (104348)
CIS 05-700 Guide to managing occupational hazards resulting from the storage and stacking of materials. (Spanish: Guía para la prevención de riesgos laborales en el almacenamiento y apilado de materiales) Dulanto Zabala M., Benéitez Ballesta A., Mapfre seguridad, 1st Quarter 2005, Vol.25, No.97, p.3-13. Illus. 9 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article presents guidelines for managing occupational hazards linked to the storage and stacking of loads. The main aspects covered include: concept of stacking as part of enterprise management; legislation, standards, technical notes, instructions and safe working methods with respect to storage and stacking; objective and structure of the guide; various types of stacks; palettes; hazards resulting from applying uniform solutions to different storage and stacking situations; periodical checks of palettes and containers. (104316)
CIS 05-701 Dry dock at Concarneau: A careenage tool that integrates safety. (French: Cale sèche de Concarneau: Un outil de carénage intégrant la sécurité) Richez J.P., Travail et santé, June 2003, No.630, p.2-9. Illus. (In French) Internet: Since 2002, the town of Concarneau (in Finistère, France) has a new type of dry dock that can accommodate large ships for maintenance procedures. The integration of safety considerations into the design of the dry dock resulted in a careenage system with a high degree of safety. This article describes these safety features along with other safety and health measures including control of access to the site, protection against falls and improved circulation and emergency access routes on the dock. (104493)
CIS 05-702 Tractor-related injuries: A population-based study of a five-state region in the Midwest. Ferguson Carlson K., Goodwin Gerberich S., Church T.R., Ryan A.D., Alexander B.H., Mongin S.J., Renier C.M., Zhang X., French L.R., Masten A., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2005, Vol.47, No.3, p.254-264. Illus. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: Tractor-related injuries are among the most severe of agricultural injuries. This study on tractor-related injuries identified the incidence, consequences and potential risk factors for tractor injuries among 3,765 agricultural households in a five-state region. Demographic, injury and exposure data were collected during 1999 using telephone interviews. A causal model served as a basis for survey design, data analysis and interpretation of results. The overall injury rate was 9.6 events per 1000 persons per year. Increased personal risk was observed for males and prior agricultural injury experience. Compared with ages 35-44, decreased risks were identified for younger age groups. (104289)
CIS 05-703 Agricultural machinery safety: Regulating the workplace. Gunningham N., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 2003, Vol.19, No.3, p.235-244. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: The challenge of ensuring OHS in the agricultural sector is substantially different from that in manufacturing, construction or many other traditional areas of concern. The problems are exacerbated when it comes to the hazards of farm machinery, where the rate of injury is particularly high. This article identifies the major deficiencies of the existing Australian legislation and standards, and makes recommendations for a best practice regulatory regime, with a focus on duty holders at the workplace and those who may be endangered by their activities. In particular, it argues that substantial improvements might be achieved through the use of a combination of tools (including information, education and incentives) that are underpinned in each case by regulation. (104368)
CIS 05-704 Development and validation of a method for evaluating railings built and installed on construction sites. (French: Développement et validation d'une méthode d'évaluation des garde-corps fabriqués et installés à pied d'œuvre sur les chantiers) Lan A., Arteau J., Daigle R., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. xii, 161p. Illus. 33 ref. + CD-ROM. Price: CAD 16.05. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22736-4 (In French) Internet: Falls from heights are one of the main causes of industrial accidents, particularly in the construction industry. Guardrails are often the most appropriate means of collective protection. However, it is difficult to verify the level of safety they offer since they are manufactured and installed on site. To evaluate their strength, effectiveness and reliability, laboratory tests were performed on wooden guardrails and on guardrails with metal frames and supports. This allowed the validation of a practical and reproducible method for verifying the safety of these types of guardrails manufactured and installed on construction sites and the verification of their compliance with standards and regulations. (104406)
CIS 05-705 Transfer of competency in training in machine safety management and means of protection. (French: Transfert de compétences en formation sur la gestion de la sécurité des machines et les moyens de protection) Paques J.J., Bourbonnière R., Daigle R., Doucet P., Masson P., Micheau P., Lane J., Tardif J., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. iv, 27p. Illus. 9 ref. Price: CAD 6.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22678-3 (In French) Internet: Inspectors of the Quebec Commission for Occupational Safety and Health (CSST) have been trained in risk evaluation for hazardous machines and in the use of safety devices, and can carry out effective interventions in plants that use such equipment. In response to a request from representatives of joint sector-based associations, plant engineering and maintenance personnel, and an engineering faculty, IRSST researchers helped the partners develop appropriate training activities based on the pedagogical material and methods used for training the CSST inspectors. In this context, they defined pedagogical objectives specific to each of the partners, prepared the required material and offered appropriate training. The method described in this report may be used to transfer competencies in other fields. (104441)
CIS 05-706 Safety of computer-operated mine hoists. (French: Sécurité des machines d'extraction commandées par systèmes programmables) Paques J.J., Germain L., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 22p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: CAD 4.50. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22704-6 (In French) Internet: The recommendations contained in this report are the result of a process to analyse the risks associated with the control and monitoring systems of mine hoists using programmable control systems. Based on the experience of users, manufacturers and inspectors of the Quebec Commission for Occupational Safety and Health (Commission pour la santé et la sécurité du travail - CSST), this process took into account the experiences in the mining environment, together with applications of programmable control technologies in other types of industries. The recommendations address the general structure of control and monitoring systems, specific components and periodic tests and verifications. (104446)
CIS 05-707 Improvement of the safety and reliability of the use of belt conveyors. (Finnish: Hihnakuljettimien käytön turvallisuuden ja luotettavuuden parantaminen) Parikka R., Mäkelä K.K., Sarsama J, Virolainen K., Valtion teknillinen tutkimuskeskus (VTT), Vuorimiehentie 5, PL 2000, 02044 VTT, Finland, 2000. 77 + [24]p. Illus. 19 ref. Price: EUR 43.00., ISBN 951-38-5677-1 (In Finnish) Internet: This publication is part of a research project designed to improve belt conveyor safety by developing conveyor malfunction control, maintenance and monitoring. Two principal research methods were used: checklist-based safety and reliability analyses. A new specific analytical tool was developed in order to take full advantage of these research methods. Belt conveyor users, designers and manufacturers were consulted throughout the duration of the project. (104452)
CIS 05-708 The maintenance of tree felling equipment - Identifying risks and exploring improvement possibilities. (French: L'entretien des têtes d'abattage - Identification des risques et exploration des possibilités d'amélioration) Giraud L., Massé S., Vigneault S., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. ix, 43p. Illus. 22 ref. Price: CAD 6.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22701-1 (In French) Internet: Serious and even fatal accidents regularly occur with tree felling equipment, and more precisely with equipment using a mechanized head. Very little information is available for making these machines safe in a simple and rapid way. This study documents the ways in which operators and mechanics intervene on multifunctional felling heads. Information was collected on maintenance, existing safety devices, available training and accidents that have occurred. Analysis of the data identified possible solutions and research scenarios for making the maintenance of these machines safer and for making recommendations to the Quebec Commission for Occupational Safety and Health (Commission pour la santé et la sécurité du travail - CSST) joint sector-based committee for the forestry sector. These recommendations are included in the report. (104404)
CIS 05-709 Multidisciplinary study to develop a decision support tool for predicting the behaviour of paste backfills. (French: Etude pluridisciplinaire visant à mettre au point un outil expert pour la prédiction du comportement des remblais en pâte) Benzaazoua M., Fall M., Ouellet S., Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2004. v, 21p. Illus. 35 ref. Price: CAD 10.00. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22627-9 (In French) Internet: Paste backfill is used to stabilize underground excavations but is complex to produce and presents various safety issues. There is currently no satisfactory method for establishing the correct composition of cemented paste backfill. Based on experimental data, mathematical models were developed that predict the mechanical strength, consistency, percent solids and the production cost of cemented paste mining backfill. Results have allowed fill properties to be optimized by taking into account important criteria, including worker safety and the technique's feasibility and usefulness. Validated experimentally, the models have resulted in a preliminary version of a decision support tool for the determination of paste fill composition. The work is being pursued to improve the tool and extend its areas of use. (104295)
CIS 05-710 Acoustic monitoring of the hulls of floating production storage and offshore facilities (FPSOs) for corrosion and damage. Harper M.F., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. ii, 45p. 55 ref. Price: GBP 10.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2979-1 (In English) Internet: This project explored means of monitoring the structural integrity of floating production, storage and offshore facilities (FPSOs) using structural acoustics. It involved a review of published literature and a series of interviews with experts involved in the design, construction, operation, maintenance and inspection of FPSOs. It was concluded that there are only two technologies that have a realistic chance of reaching practical application: acoustic emission monitoring and sparse-array monitoring using guided waves (Lamb waves). The former is applicable to monitoring crack growth and the latter to crack detection and corrosion monitoring. (104335)
CIS 05-711 Review of knowledge on personnel detection devices used during vehicle backup manoeuvres on construction sites. (French: Bilan de connaissances sur les dispositifs de détection de personnes lors des manœuvres de recul des véhicules dans les chantiers de construction) Blouin S., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. vi, 41p. Illus. 27 ref. Price: CAD 7.49. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22735-6 (In French) Internet: In the last few years, many fatal accidents have been reported that involved backup manoeuvres on construction sites, even when the vehicles had sound alarms complying with current regulations. Various factors can explain the ineffectiveness of these sound devices in alerting nearby workers. This study analysed personnel detection techniques that could complement or replace these devices and determined safety criteria applicable to vehicles used on construction sites. The conclusions are also applicable to other mobile equipment, mainly in mining and agriculture. (104447)
CIS 05-712 Workplace transport problems data collecting and mining. Thornley S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. iv, 7p. Price: GBP 10.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2978-3 (In English) Internet: This report provides an assessment of the use made of a transport safety advisory service programme implemented jointly by the Health and Safety Executive and the UK Freight Transport Association. The service includes access to a dedicated toll-free number to provide guidance and advice to vehicle operators, drivers and all persons responsible for safety relating to workplace transport. The assessment of the use of the service includes the number of calls made by postcode, size of enterprise (expressed by number of vehicles and employees), nature of business, nature of the problems and responses. (104334)
CIS 05-713 Occupational accidents involving falls on the level. (French: Les accidents de plain-pied en situation professionnelle) Leclercq S., Tissot C., Saulnier H, Chapouthier A., Dornier G., Travail et sécurité, May 2005, No.651, 4p. Insert. Illus. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: Falls on the level constitute close to a quarter of all accidents with loss of work time. 6% of these accidents give rise to permanent invalidity. All sectors of activity are involved. Despite this situation, there are few prevention practices or research efforts. Contents of this information note: definition of falls on the level; obstacles to prevention; risk factors; hazard evaluation and preventative measures. (104433)
CIS 05-714 Operators of vertical lifting gear (cranes, overhead travelling cranes). (French: Conducteur d'engins de levage à déplacement vertical (grues, ponts roulants)) Trilhe P., Bossons Futé, 17 Av. Miss Cavell, 94100 Saint-Maur, France, Nov. 2005. 5p. 10 ref. (In French) Internet: This information sheet describes the type of work performed by operators of vertical lifting gear on a building site or dock or in a warehouse or workshop. Potential hazards are identified and preventive measures are outlined. Relevant legislation and standards are also listed. (104463)
CIS 05-715 Timber handling in ports. Measures for the prevention of accidents. (French: Manutention portuaire des grumes. Mesures de prévention des accidents) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 1989. 2p. (In French) Internet: These recommendations concern the prevention of accidents during the handling of timber in ports. Guidance is given on lifting methods (use of slings, grasping devices), use of cranes, handling of loads on board and on the dock, selection of appropriate lifting equipment and measures for the personal safety of workers (safety helmets and footwear, training). (104464)
CIS 05-716 Overhead travelling cranes, portal and semi-portal cranes. (French: Ponts roulants, portiques et semi-portiques. Mesures de prévention des accidents) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 1989. 3p. Illus. (In French) Internet: These recommendations concern the prevention of accidents during the use of overhead travelling cranes and portal and semi-portal cranes. Potential hazards on the ground and at height are identified and guidance is given on safety measures: correct use of equipment and installation of safety devices, operational procedures, the personal protection of workers and regular inspection of the equipment. (104465)
CIS 05-717 Safety during the handling of containers on board ship. (French: Prévention lors de la manutention de conteneurs à bord des navires) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 1994. 2p. Illus. (In French) Internet: These recommendations provide guidance on the safe handling of containers on board ships. They cover the use of ships specially designed for carrying containers, the provision and use of suitable lifting equipment, protective clothing for workers, worker training and safe methods of work. (104466)
CIS 05-718 Materials handling in ports: Institutional framework and relevant regulations. (French: Les manutentions portuaires. Paysage institutionnel et réglementation applicable) Ferreira M., Le Roy A., Laine P., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, June 2005. 64p. Illus., ISBN 2-7389-1275-3 (In French) Internet: This guide describes the hazards associated with the handling of different types of material in ports and provides guidance on safety and health measures. Contents: the work environment (movement of plant and equipment on the dockside, safe workplace access, adequate lighting, fire protection); selection of appropriate handling methods according to the type of material to be lifted; correct use of handling and lifting equipment; safety training and information of personnel; use of external contractors. (104467)
CIS 05-719 Safer Ports Initiative: Guide to preventing slips, trips and falls. Port Skills and Safety Ltd., Africa House, 64-78 Kingsway, London, WC2B 6AH, United Kingdom, 2004. 4p. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: This guidance note provides practical advice on the prevention of slips, trips and falls in ports. The need for a risk assessment is outlined and potential causes of slips, trips and falls are listed along with control measures. These guidelines are also relevant to work on ships. (104478)
CIS 05-720 Vessel design considerations for stevedore safety. Port Skills and Safety Ltd., Africa House, 64-78 Kingsway, London, WC2B 6AH, United Kingdom, 2004. 17p. Illus. 26 ref. (In English) Internet: This safety guide identifies the hazards and difficulties involved in container lashing operations on board ships and offers possible solutions. Topics covered include: hatch covers and access to work stations; lashing gear and planning; design of lashing platforms; safety barriers; design of fixed ladders. Legal considerations in the United Kingdom and Europe are outlined. (104489)
CIS 05-721 Guidance on the design, installation and use of free standing support systems (including powered supports) in coal mines. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2002. iv, 56p. Illus. 17 ref. Price: GBP 11.00., ISBN 0-7176-2128-6 (In English) Internet: This guidance sets out the key elements for the safe use of free standing support systems. Topics covered: definition of free standing support systems; legal framework; assessing ground conditions; preparing the design, implementing the design; assessing the adequacy of free standing support systems; notifying HSE of significant changes to the support systems; setting and withdrawing supports; support materials. (104416)
CIS 05-722 Microbial exposure, symptoms and inflammatory mediators in nasal lavage fluid of kitchen and clerical personnel in schools. Lignell U., Meklin T., Putus T., Vepsäläinen A., Roponen M., Torvinen E., Reeslev M., Pennanen S., Hirvonen M.R., Kalliokoski P., Nevalainen A., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2005, Vol.18, No.2, p.139-150. Illus. 51 ref. (In English) Internet: Microbial investigations were conducted in six moisture-damaged schools and two reference schools. The symptoms of kitchen personnel were investigated by questionnaire and by measurement of inflammatory responses in nasal lavage (NAL) fluid. Total concentrations of airborne microbes were lower in kitchens than in other facilities of the schools. However, the occurrence of moisture damage increased the airborne microbial concentrations both in kitchens and in other facilities. Bacterial concentrations were high on surfaces in the damaged kitchens. Symptoms were prevalent both among kitchen workers and clerical personnel in the moisture-damaged work environments. Median concentrations of inflammatory mediators were slightly higher in NAL samples of kitchen workers than among clerical personnel. It is concluded that kitchen facilities differ from other facilities of the school building and represent a specific type of environment that may affect the health status of the personnel. (104399)
CIS 05-723 Illness experience before and after an initiative to identify, treat and prevent Helicobacter pylori-related diseases at the workplace. Ott M.G., Zober A., Messerer P., Riemann J.F., Schilling D., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2004, Vol.46, No.3, p.227-233. Illus. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: This study used aggregate medical claims data to evaluate the illness experience of 5160 employees at a chemical plant in Germany during the two years after and the two years before an intervention to identify, treat, and prevent Helicobacter pylori-related illnesses. Across all participants, a 2.1 fold reduction in ulcer-related illness episodes and a 1.1 fold reduction in episodes due to other stomach and duodenal diseases were achieved. Improvement in claims experience was most notable among 250 employees with ulcer findings on the screening examination. The H. pylori health initiative appears to have contributed to a cost-effective reduction in subsequent illness episodes due to ulcer and possibly due to other stomach and duodenal diseases. (104303)
CIS 05-724 Occupational non-infectious respiratory diseases caused by biological agents - Physiopathology and syndromic reactions. (French: Affections respiratoires non infectieuses professionnelles liées aux agents biologiques - Physiopathologie et réactions syndromiques) Rosenberg N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.102, p.235-244. Illus. 37 ref. (In French) Internet: Biological agents such as bacteria, viruses, yeasts, moulds and parasites are to be found at the workplace in many sectors of activity. Exposure to these agents may give rise to infections and other pathologies such as immunoallergies, poisoning and cancer. This article reviews current knowledge on occupational non-infectious respiratory diseases caused by biological agents. Topics covered: types of biological agents and mechanisms of respiratory pathogenicity; immuno-allergic pathologies (rhinitis, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis); toxic respiratory effects (bronchial diseases, toxic organic dust syndrome). (104424)
CIS 05-725 Avian influenza: Hazards in the workplace and preparations for a possible pandemic. (French: Grippe aviaire: risques en milieu professsionnel et perspectives en cas de pandémie) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité (INRS), 30 rue Olivier Noyer, 75680 Paris, Cedex 14, France, updated edition, 2005. Internet document (7p.) Illus. 10 ref. (In French) Internet: Information sheet on avian influenza. Contents: overview (viral disease, modification of type-A influenza, spread by birds, origin in the Far East); potential of very high mortality; incubation period (1-2 days in birds, a bit longer in humans); transmission; means of protection; groups at particular risk of being infected; recommendations to people who may have to visit infected areas for professional reasons; advice to people returning from infected areas (if they develop suspicious symptoms); relationship between avian and human influenza; preparations for a possible pandemic. (104455)
CIS 05-726 Avian influenza: Frequently asked questions. (French: Grippe aviaire: questions fréquemment posées) World Health Organization (WHO), ave. Appia 20, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2005. Internet publication (6 pages) (In English, French) Internet: Data sheet on the dangers of this new infectious disease, also known as bird flu. Implications for human health, including the possibilities of infection in an occupational setting (by workers in contact with infected birds), are discussed. (104456)
CIS 05-727 Working with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus. Health and Safety Executive (http://www.hse.gov.uk/), United Kingdom, 2005. Internet document (2+2+1p.) (In English) Internet: Information sheet on avian influenza (also known as bird flu), aimed at people who may be exposed to infected animals. There are two associated data sheets with more specific information: Avoiding The Risk Of Infection When Working With Poultry That Is Suspected Of Having Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Avoiding The Risk Of Zoonotic Infections When Working With Poultry That Is Not Suspected Of Having Avian Influenza. (104457)
CIS 05-728 Advice on working with influenza viruses. Health and Safety Executive (http://www.hse.gov.uk/), United Kingdom, 2005. Internet document (6p.) (In English) Internet: Information sheet on safe working practices in laboratories where exposure to influenza viruses is a realistic possibility. Contents: current classification; recommendations for laboratories knowingly handling influenza viruses; diagnostic work; use of microbiological safety cabinets; planning for pandemics. In annex: guidance on the application of the Specified Animal Pathogens Order 1998. (104459)
CIS 05-729 Avian influenza - Protecting poultry workers at risk. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 2004. 8p. (In English) Internet: Contents of this information sheet: general information on avian influenza; measures for protecting poultry workers (follow biosecurity practices, recognize infection in poultry, take antiviral medication and get vaccination, know the signs and symptoms of human infection, wear personal protective equipment); respiratory protection; eye protection; protective clothing and hand-hygiene practices. In annex: table showing the advantages, disadvantages and price of different kinds of air-purifying respirators for protecting poultry workers. (104460)
CIS 05-730 A different perspective in participatory ergonomics in product development improves assembly work in the automotive industry. Sundin A., Christmansson M., Larsson M., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Jan. 2004, Vol.33, No.1, p.1-14. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: This paper describes a product development process in a bus manufacturing company. A participatory ergonomics approach was used that gathered a group of designers and production engineers from different plants, including also ergonomics researchers. The group used different methods to improve chassis design with respect to the productivity and ergonomics of the assembly process. Besides analyses of running chassis production, simulations were made by experienced workers using prototypes of the new chassis and were complemented with computer mannequin analyses. The participatory ergonomics approach used resulted in new chassis designs that improved the efficiency and ergonomics of the assembly operations. (104391)
CIS 05-731 Impact of the working constraints of high speed ships on the health of seafarers. (French: Retentissement sur la santé du personnel navigant des contraintes spécifiques à la navigation sur les navires à grande vitesse) Gentile S., Pellissier V., Tézenas du Montcel S., Antoniotti S., Gérin O., San Marco J.L., Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Sep. 2000, Vol.61, No.5, p.297-303. 8 ref. (In French) Internet: This article examines the impact on tiredness, watchfulness and perceived health of constraints associated with work on high-speed ships. A study of 50 workers on two high-speed ships and one traditional ship was carried out in 1997. Results indicated that while the constraints of sailing in high-speed ships had a greater effect on the crew's tiredness and watchfulness compared to the traditional ship, the impact did not appear to cause any physiological changes that would threaten the security or health of those on board. (104468)
CIS 05-732 Subjective and objective evaluation of sleep and performance in daytime versus nighttime sleep in extended-hours shift-workers at an underground mine. Hossain J.L., Reinish L.W., Heslegrave R.J., Hall G.W., Kayumov L., Chung S.A., Bhuiya P., Jovanovic D., Huterer N., Volkov J., Shapiro C.M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2004, Vol.46, No.3, p.212-226. Illus. 124 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined subjective and objective measurements of sleep and performance in a group of underground miners before and after the change from a backward-rotating 8-hour to a forward-rotating 10-hour shift schedule. The 10-hour nightshift workers reported more refreshing sleep, fewer performance impairments and driving difficulties than 8-hour nightshift workers. The results of the objective measures of sleep and performance on the 10-hour nightshifts were overall similar or possibly better than those measured on the 10-hour dayshifts. It is believed that these benefits are mostly the result of the timing of the new nightshift start and end times rather than other shift-schedule factors. (104302)
CIS 05-733 Morbidity among X-ray technologists. Kumar S., Moro L., Narayan Y., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Jan. 2004, Vol.33, No.1, p.29-40. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: A questionnaire survey of occupational and non-occupational health factors was carried out among a random sample of 20 volunteer X-ray technologists from two University hospitals. Participants were from 20 to 53 years of age and 89% were physically active. Despite their relatively young age and active lifestyle, they suffered from significant and diverse musculoskeletal problems. Eighty three percent had backache, 39% of female respondents had neck pain and 28% has shoulder pain. The pain was aggravated by work activities and relieved by rest, massage, the application of heat or ice and exercise. Most suffered multiple episodes of pain and half of the female sample suffered from upper extremity pain. (104392)
CIS 05-734 Risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders among nursing personnel in Greek hospitals. Alexopoulos E.C., Burdorf A., Kalokerinou A., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2003, Vol.76, No.4, p.289-294. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the relationships between physical, psychosocial, and individual characteristics of nursing personnel and musculoskeletal symptoms of the lower back, neck and shoulders. A questionnaire was addressed to 351 nurses of six hospitals in Athens, Greece. The response rate was 84%. Odds ratios (ORs) were estimated for all relevant risk factors by means of logistical regression analysis. It was found that physical load was associated with back pain (OR=1.85), neck pain (OR=1.88), and shoulder pain (OR=1.87). However, no consistent influence of psychosocial factors on complaints and their chronicity, or on sickness absence was observed. A perceived moderate general health was also a risk factor. The strongest associations were observed for sickness absence due to back pain (OR=2.03), neck pain (OR=8.31), and shoulder pain (OR=6.84). (104379)
CIS 05-735 Operating hours and work schedules in the freight and passenger transport sectors. (German: Betriebs- und Arbeitszeiten beim Gütertransport und bei der Personenbeförderung) Roth J.J., Schygulla M., Dürholt H., Nachreiner F., Pankonin C., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2004. 184p. Illus. 62 ref. Price: EUR 16.00., ISBN 3-86509-225-X (In German) Internet: New demands in the transport sector have caused enterprises to change their service and working hours. This project examined the impact of working hours on the safety and health of workers in public transport and road haulage enterprises and evaluated different work schedules. The study highlighted ergonomic aspects likely to increase stress and in turn cause risks to health. Results indicate a large potential for improvements in working time arrangements at the company level, although improving working time conditions in this sector will also require efforts at the government level and in the area of standardization. (104353)
CIS 05-736 International review of the literature relating to the benefits of limbering up exercises at work. Lock D., Colford N., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. viii, 55p. Illus. 78 ref. Price: GBP 25.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2957-0 (In English) Internet: This study investigated the benefits of limbering-up exercises as a means of reducing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). It involved a review of English and Japanese literature, an assessment of the extent of the problem of work-related MSDs in UK industry through a data analysis, a workshop and visits to various organizations in Japan. Results indicate that there is not enough quantitative and reliable scientific evidence to make recommendations to employers concerning the implementation of limbering-up exercises in the workplace as a means of reducing work-related MSDs. However, the benefits of general physical (cardiovascular) exercise as a means of reducing sickness absenteeism are better documented and could be recommended. (104332)
CIS 05-737 Integration of MSD prevention in designing a layout: The case of public libraries. (French: Intégration de la prévention des TMS dès la conception d'un aménagement : le cas des bibliothèques publiques) Bellemare M., Trudel L., Ledoux E., Montreuil S., Marier M., Laberge M., Godi M.J., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. x, 111p. Illus. 48 ref. + CD-ROM. Price: CAD 16.00. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22684-8 (In French) Internet: Musculoskeletal disorders are common among library clerks, owing to prolonged static postures, repeated movements, the use of computer tools and manual handling tasks. This report summarizes the development of an ergonomic model that allows intervention during the design of workplace layouts so as to minimize the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Relationships between work activities in a library and various risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders were established and the impact of choices made during two library layout projects on the appearance of such injuries is documented. The results of the study can help library managers and personnel, ergonomists and municipal occupational health and safety specialists in choosing equipment and layouts that take into account the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. (104410)
CIS 05-738 Intervention practices for the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders: A critical review of the literature. (French: Les pratiques d'intervention portant sur la prévention des troubles musculo-squelettiques: un bilan critique de la littérature) Denis D., St-Vincent M., Jetté C., Nastasia I., Imbeau D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. v, 67p. Illus. 107 ref. Price: CAD 10.70. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22733-X (In French) Internet: Many ergonomic interventions have been carried out over the last 20 years to prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in the workplace. This report summarizes and documents the aspects that contribute to the improvement of MSD prevention practices. A database of English and French publications was compiled. Five main categories of information were collected: steps in the intervention process used, general context, changes implemented, processes for accompanying the changes and the authors' comments on the dynamics of the intervention process in the company. Analysis of this data provides a picture of the major categories of intervention processes used in prevention and a critical evaluation of their use. New areas of research are proposed in order to better equip professionals dealing with MSD problems in their specific sectors of activity. (104448)
CIS 05-739 Past, present and future of work ability. Ilmarinen J., Lehtinen S., eds., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2004. iv, 168p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 951-802-581-9 (In English) Internet: Proceedings of an international symposium on work ability held in Tampere, Finland, 5-6 September 2001. Papers are grouped under the following headings: work ability and age groups; work ability in female jobs; work ability in male jobs; work ability, occupational health services and rehabilitation; future perspectives of work ability. Highlights the use of the work ability index, a method developed by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health for providing an assessment of how well a worker is able to perform his or her work. (104347)
CIS 05-740 Functional capacity evaluation. (French: Evaluation de la capacité fonctionnelle; German: Evaluation der funktionellen Leistungsfähigkeit) Rivier G., Seewer M., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, Spring 2002, No.73, p.33-47. 8 ref. (In French, German) Internet: The objective of functional capacity evaluation is to determine as objectively as possible the physical aptitude required to fulfil productive work. It measures the capacity of individuals to accomplish manual tasks and estimates the length of time during which they can carry out these tasks during a working day. The evaluation of functional capacity provides data on the functional limits and the performance that an individual is capable of meeting, which are then compared with the physical requirements of one or several tasks. This article reviews the historical development of functional capacity evaluation, presents an evaluation method and shows an example of how such an evaluation is carried out in practice. (104342)
CIS 05-741 Modelling relationships between job stressors and injury and near-miss outcomes for construction labourers. Goldenhar L.M., Williams L.J., Swanson N.G., Work and Stress, July-Sep. 2003, Vol.17, No.3, p.218-240. Illus. 75 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examines the relationships between a variety of job stressors and injury or near-miss outcomes among construction workers. Self-reported questionnaire data collected from 408 workers via telephone interview were analysed. A theoretical model was developed to evaluate whether work stressors could be related to self-reported injuries and near misses. Ten of the 12 work-related stressors were found to be directly related to either injury or near misses, namely: job demands, job control, job certainty, training, safety climate, skill under-utilization, responsibility for the safety of others, safety compliance, exposure hours, and job tenure. Other stressors were indirectly related to injuries through physical symptoms or indirectly related to near misses through psychological strain. There was no support for the modelled gender differences. (104361)
CIS 05-742 Work-related homicides among seafarers and fishermen. Roberts S.E., International Maritime Health, 2004, Vol.55, No.1/4, p.7-18. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to analyse homicide cases among seafarers and fishermen during the period 1976-2002. Data ware based on official mortality files, with an aggregate population of almost two million man-years of seafarers and fishermen at risk. Of 46 work-related homicides, 44 occurred among seafarers and two among fishermen. The homicide rate in British shipping increased from 2.7 per 100,000 man-years in 1961-65 to 4.4 per 100,000 in 1971-75, but declined to zero in 1996-2002. Work related homicides were rare among British seafarers and fishermen and were largely caused by attacks from assailants onshore. The decline in the homicide rate in British shipping since the 1970s coincided with a reduction in trade with countries at high risk for homicide. Among Asian seafarers, most homicides resulted from disputes among colleagues that mainly occurred on board ships. (104381)
CIS 05-743 Psychological, social and organizational aspects of telework. (Polish: Psychologiczne, społeczne i organizacyjne uwarunkowania telepracy) Najmiec A., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, Jan. 2003, No.1, p.20-23. Illus. 10 ref. (In Polish) Internet: Telework is a new way of organizing work. It revolutionizes two principal aspects of the structure of work: time and space. There are many kinds of telework including home-based telework, mobile telework, telework by the self-employed and centre-based telework. There are also combinations of different kinds of telework. This article discusses the organizational, social and individual characteristics that determine success in telework. (104280)
CIS 05-744 The relationship of work stressors, coping and social support to psychological symptoms among female secretarial employees. Snow D.L., Swan S.C., Raghavan C., Connell C.M., Klein I., Work and Stress, July-Sep. 2003, Vol.17, No.3, p.241-263. Illus. 88 ref. (In English) Internet: This article describes a conceptual framework based on the assumption that psychological symptoms are influenced by the interaction of individual and situational risk and protective factors over time. This framework was used to examine the impact of work stressors, coping, and work-related social support on psychological symptoms among 239 female secretarial employees in the USA, using both cross-sectional and longitudinal models. Work stressors and avoidance coping were viewed as risk factors, and active coping and social support as protective factors. In both models, work stressors and avoidance coping contributed substantially to increased symptoms while active coping was related to fewer psychological symptoms. Work-related social support served an indirect protective function by contributing to lower levels of reported work stressors and greater use of active coping. Work stressors also mediated the relationship between social support and symptoms. (104362)
CIS 05-745 Associations between repetitive work and endocrinological indicators of stress. Hansen Å.M., Kaergaard A., Andersen J.H., Netterstrøm B., Work and Stress, July-Sep. 2003, Vol.17, No.3, p.264-276. 43 ref. (In English) Internet: The impact of repetitive work on endocrinological indicators of stress was studied in a sample of 96 female sewing machine operators mainly carrying out repetitive work and a control group of 46 women mainly carrying out process monitoring in a toy factory. The degree of repetitiveness of the work was assessed on the basis of job category, job observations and self-reports of the psychosocial work environment. The sewing machine operators were found to exhibit more catabolic and less anabolic metabolism compared to members of the control group. Participants classified as having repetitive work had higher concentrations of immunoglobulin A and lower concentrations of free testosterone and urinary adrenaline compared to participants having non-repetitive work. No differences were observed between job categories in other measured endocrinological indicators. An association between self-reported adverse psychosocial work environment and low anabolic metabolism could not be demonstrated. (104363)
CIS 05-746 A preliminary investigation of post-traumatic stress symptoms among firefighters. Haslam C., Mallon K., Work and Stress, July-Sep. 2003, Vol.17, No.3, p.277-285. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: This preliminary study investigated symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTDS) among firefighters in relation to their experience of traumatic events and the availability of social support. Thirty-one UK fire service workers completed an adapted version of the Post-traumatic Diagnostic Scale (PDS) questionnaire. They were also individually interviewed. Rumination and sleep disturbance were the most commonly reported PTDS symptoms. Participants reported having benefited from high levels of social support from within the service and outside. The results suggest that fire service personnel are at risk of developing some symptoms of PTDS; however most had not experienced severe enough symptoms for PTDS to be diagnosed. High levels of social support may play a role in buffering firefighters from the development of PTDS. (104364)
CIS 05-747 Violence towards psychiatric staff: A comparison of gender, job and environmental characteristics in England and Sweden. Lakowo S., Soares J.J.F., Nolan P., Work and Stress, Jan.-Mar. 2004, Vol.18, No.1, p.39-55. 70 ref. (In English) Internet: This study compares violence encountered by staff at mental institutions in Sweden and the United Kingdom. Psychiatric personnel from the United Kindgom (301 nurses and 74 psychiatrists) and Sweden (745 nurses and 306 psychiatrists) were assessed by means of a questionnaire covering working conditions and exposure to violence. Analysis showed an association between being abused and being male, of young age, British and a nurse. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed that British female and male nurses were the main risk group for exposure to violence. Interventions thus need to be sensitive to gender differences, societal context, professional roles and interactions between them. Furthermore, clinical supervision and team functioning, together with organizational and environmentally friendly settings, may help reduce violence in mental institutions. (104383)
CIS 05-748 Measures to counter piracy, armed robbery and other acts of violence against merchant shipping. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Spring Place, 105 Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1EG, United Kingdom, Oct. 2005. 24p. (In English) Internet: This guidance note brings to the attention of ship owners and operators the risk of acts of piracy or armed robbery at sea and outlines steps to reduce the risk of such attacks and possible responses to them. Recent trends in this type of attack are reviewed and locations and methods of attack are described along with factors encouraging or favouring attackers. Recommended practices relate to the preparation of a ship counter-piracy plan, precautions at anchor or in port, watch-keeping and vigilance, ship communications, adequate lighting, evasive manoeuvring and action to take after an attack and reporting of incidents. (104476)
CIS 05-749 Work-related violence - Case studies - Managing the risk in smaller businesses. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2002. iv, 36p. Illus. 12 ref. Price: GBP 9.50., ISBN 0-7176-2358-0 (In English) Internet: Work-related violence has serious consequences for employees and the businesses they work for. Victims may suffer not only physical injury, but also psychological effects, such as anxiety and stress. For their employers this can represent a real financial cost. This guide presents 10 case studies showing how owners and managers of small businesses can successfully manage the risk of violence. The case studies are grouped according to four business sectors: retail, health and welfare, security and enforcement, leisure and service providers. (104415)
CIS 05-750 Change in manufacturing: How to manage stress-related risks. Jackson P.R., Parker S.K., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2001. iv, 197p. Illus. 28 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 0-7176-2086-7 (In English) Internet: This book examines the impact of four types of organizational change taking place within manufacturing industries: advanced manufacturing technology, downsizing, team working and lean production. Based on case studies, it explores how these initiatives are changing the workplace and what organizations can do to manage change effectively and prevent stress among their employees. (104419)
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