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ILO-CIS Bulletin 2006/02CIS 06-251 --- CIS 06-500Laws, regulations, directivesCIS 06-251 Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 [Australia - Victoria]. Internet document, 2004. 169p. (In English) Internet: Framework law on OSH in the state of Victoria (commencement: 1 July 2005), replacing the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1985 (CIS 88-1751), which is repealed. Contents: preliminary; definition of the role of the Victorian WorkCover Authority in enforcing the provisions of the Act and of the Victorian WorkCover Authority and of the Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Committee; general duties of employers, self-employed persons, employees and others in connection with the Act; duties of employers to consult; duties relating to incidents; licences, registration, permits and other requirements; representation of employees (including the election, role and powers of health and safety representatives); obligations of employers to health and safety representatives; health and safety committees; resolution of health and safety issues; prohibition of discrimination against workers in connection with their activities as HS representative or as a member of an HS committee; role of authorized representatives of registered employee organizations; inspectors and enforcement; legal matters and compliance codes. Generally speaking, regulations issued under the 1985 Act will continue to be in effect for 2 years after the commencement of this Act (unless repealed earlier). Various other Acts are amended. (104817)
CIS 06-252 Employment Act [Vanuatu]. Laws of the Republic of Vanuatu, Revised edition 1988, Cap.160, 30p. (In English) Internet: The main employment law in Vanuatu. OSH-related issues it covers are: Part VI - Hours of work; Part VIII - Employment of women and young persons (incl. prohibition of employment of women at night); Part IX - Safety precautions and medical facilities (employers to provide safe working conditions, notification of accidents, provision of first-aid and medical treatment). (104818)
CIS 06-253 Directive 2003/10/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 February 2003 on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (noise) [European Union]. (French: Directive 2003/10/CE du Parlement européen et du Conseil du 6 février 2003 concernant les prescriptions minimales de sécurité et de santé relatives à l'exposition des travailleurs aux risques dus aux agents physiques (bruit) [Union européenne]; Spanish: Directiva 2003/10/CE del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo, de 6 de febrero de 2003, sobre las disposiciones mínimas de seguridad y de salud relativas a la exposición de los trabajadores a los riesgos derivados de los agentes físicos (ruido) [Unión europea]) Official Journal of the European Union - Journal officiel de l'Union européenne, 15 Feb. 2003, Vol.46, No.L 42, p.38-44. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This is the 17th individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16(1) of Directive 89/391/EEC (see CIS 89-1401). Contents: aim and scope (it lays down the minimum requirements for the protection of workers against the possible effects of noise, especially insofar as they pose a risk to hearing); definitions; exposure limit values (87dB(A) and 200Pa) and exposure action values (80-85dB(A) and 112-140Pa); obligations of employers (determination and assessment of risks, provisions aimed at avoiding and reducing exposure, personal protection, limitation of exposure, worker information and training, consultation and participation of workers); health surveillance; derogations. Council directive 86/188/EEC (see CIS 87-45) is repealed. (104820)
Chemical data sheets and criteria documentsCIS 06-254 Phthalates (II). (French: Phtalates (II)) Saillenfait A.M., Laudet-Hesbert A., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 4th Quarter 2005, No.149, 10p. Illus. 134 ref. (In French) Internet: This article presents a summary of current knowledge on the toxic properties of the most commonly-used phthalic acid esters. Based on published information regarding their physical and chemical properties and their toxicology, phthalates can be classified into three broad classes. Those of low molecular weight (including methyl and ethyl phthalate) are used as solvents and in the cellulosic polymer industry; they are slightly more soluble in water than other phthalates. Phthalates with high molecular weights are practically only used as polyvinyl chloride plasticizers; they are insoluble in water and have very low vapour pressure. Phthalates whose molecular weight lies in between are characterized by having a far greater toxic potential, particularly with respect to reproduction and development. (104768)
CIS 06-255 Organo-sulfur compounds. (French: Dérivés organiques soufrés) Cézard C., Mathieu-Nolf M., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 4th Quarter 2005, No.149, 9p. 132 ref. (In French) Internet: Organo-sulfur compounds include a wide variety of substances such as mercaptans, sulfides, sulfoxides, benzothiazoles, sulfates, thioureas and sulfones. They are used in the chemical industry and in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, crop protection and chemical warfare (for example as mustard gas). Signs of toxic effects frequently occur in occupational settings. Localized toxic effects are observed for many of the substances that are irritants. Their systemic toxicity is highly variable. Some are sensitizers (sulfides, sulfoxides, sulfates), mutagens (some sulfides in particular), carcinogens (mustard gas) or have been shown to have teratogenic effects in experimental animals (dimethyl sulfoxide). (104769)
CIS 06-256 Butyl acetates. Copestake P., Heath M., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2005. iv, 49p. Illus. 180 ref., ISBN 92-4-153064-2 (In English) Internet: This criteria document evaluates the health and environmental effects of n-butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl and tert-butyl acetates. Main conclusions: occupational exposure to butyl acetate particles and vapour may occur in workplaces involving painting, printing, lacquering or gluing; human studies indicate that inhalation exposure to n-butyl acetate may cause slight irritation to the eyes, nose and throat; sensitivity to odour occurs at much lower concentrations than those at which irritation is reported; only very limited data are available on the human health effects of the other isomers. Based on limited data for n-butyl acetate, a tolerable concentration of 0.4mg/m3 has been derived. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish. (104905)
CIS 06-257 Tin and inorganic tin compounds. Howe P., Watts P., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2005. iv, 73p. 370 ref., ISBN 92-4-153065-0 (In English) Internet: This criteria document evaluates the health and environmental effects of tin and inorganic tin compounds. Main conclusions: gases, dusts and fumes containing tin may be released from smelting and refining processes, industrial uses of tin, waste incineration and burning of fossil fuels; occupational inhalation of particles containing water-insoluble tin compounds has been associated with a benign pneumoconiosis (stannosis); tin metal is not an skin irritant but tin(II) chloride has been found to be irritating to human skin; tin absorption following ingestion may interfere with the status of other important metallic minerals (eg zinc). Because of the limited availability of data, no tolerable concentrations for inhalation or ingestion exposure have been set. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish. (104906)
CIS 06-258 2,4,6-Tribromophenol and other simple brominated phenols. Howe P.D., Dobson S., Malcom H.M., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2005. iv, 47p. 186 ref., ISBN 92-4-153066-9 (In English) Internet: This criteria document evaluates the health and environmental effects of 2,4,6-tribromophenol and other simple brominated phenols. Main conclusions: no studies have been identified on the effects of brominated phenols on human health; animal studies indicate that 2,4,6-tribromophenol is non-irritating to the skin but moderately irritating to the eyes. Insufficient data are available for setting tolerable concentration levels. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish. (104907)
Training materials and practical informationCIS 06-259 Workplace transport safety - An employers' guide. HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, rev. ed., 2005. iv, 107p. Illus. 41 ref. Price: GBP 11.50., ISBN 0-7176-6154-7 (In English) Internet: This guidance document provides advice for managers on how to ensure the safety of workplace transport and sets out operational guidance for common vehicle operations. Guidance for managers covers risk assessment, organizing for safety, safe workplace design, vehicle safety and driver training. Operational guidance identifies the risks associated with common transport operations (reversing, parking, loading and unloading, tipping, etc) and explains how to deal with them safely. Includes a safety checklist and an example of a workplace risk-assessment form. Replaces the previous edition (CIS 01-75). (104880)
CIS 06-260 HIV/AIDS workplace tools: Manager's kit. (Spanish: Caja de Materiales del Gerente) Business and Labor Resource Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), P.O. Box 6003, Rockville, MD 20849-6003, USA, 2003. Collection of resource materials. (In English, Spanish) Internet: This kit provides managers with the necessary resources for building a workplace programme for HIV/AIDS. It covers the development of HIV/AIDS policies, training of managers to conduct HIV/AIDS workshops, education of workers and their families about HIV/AIDS and its effect on the workplace and the promotion of community service. The kit also contains a list of resource materials and individual brochures concerning health insurance, universal precautions, OSHA guidelines, contract language, The Americans with Disabilities Act and other workplace laws. (104885)
CIS 06-261 HIV/AIDS workplace tools: Labor leader's kit. Business and Labor Resource Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), P.O. Box 6003, Rockville, MD 20849-6003, USA, 2003. Collection of resource materials. (In English) Internet: This kit provides labour leaders and workers with the necessary resources for building a workplace programme for HIV/AIDS. It covers the development of policies on HIV/AIDS to educate workers and their families and encourages workers to promote community service. The kit includes basic facts about HIV/AIDS, information on Federal laws and individual brochures on worker training, benefits, and education. Also included are profiles of unions that have responded to HIV/AIDS, the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, facts on preventing occupational exposure and additional resources. (104886)
Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisualsCIS 06-262 Biases in incident reporting databases: An empirical study in the chemical process industry. van der Schaaf T., Kanse L., Safety Science, Jan. 2004, Vol.42, No.1, p.57-67. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: The extent to which incident reporting schemes truly capture a representative sample of actual events remains a topic of debate. While this has led several researchers to provide organizational design guidelines for implementing such schemes, much less is known about the individual reporter's perspective. Based on a literature survey and a diary study in which chemical plant operators reported events involving recovery from their own errors, together with reasons why they would or would not normally report these events, six categories of reasons for not reporting were identified. The distribution of the diary study events over these categories highlighted a difference between the operator and management with respect to their perception of the importance of successfully recovered events with no remaining consequences or events considered to be nothing new. This difference should be addressed by communicating the learning potential of these types of events. (104782)
CIS 06-263 Behavior change versus culture change: Divergent approaches to managing workplace safety. DeJoy D.M., Safety Science, Feb. 2005, Vol.43, No.2, p.105-129. Illus. 77 ref. (In English) Internet: This article compares and contrasts the behaviour change and culture change approaches to safety. The two perspectives are analysed in terms of their conceptual and theoretical foundations, their characteristics and their apparent strengths and weaknesses. The level of empirical support for each approach is also assessed. The argument is advanced that the two approaches are essentially complementary and that their respective strengths can be merged into a more balanced and comprehensive approach for managing workplace safety. This integrated approach has two key features: a data-based and participatory problem-solving process that includes some of the inherent strengths of the behaviour change approach, and a more explicit culture change process that can be systematically monitored and assessed. (104784)
CIS 06-264 Safety culture and accident risk control: Perceptions of professional divers and offshore workers. Adie W., Cairns J., Macdiarmid J., Ross J., Watt S., Taylor C.L., Osman L.M., Safety Science, Feb. 2005, Vol.43, No.2, p.131-145. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigated the perception of the significance of safety culture in achieving accident risk control among workers in the offshore industry. Participants consisted of 212 male professional divers (70% with offshore diving experience and 30% who had not dived offshore) and 108 male offshore platform workers. Participants rated likelihood of an accident given varying levels of safety culture, supervisory quality, worker competency and time/financial pressure. Statistical analysis was used to estimate the relative importance of each attribute in accident control. All four attributes significantly affected the perception of accident risk but offshore divers gave less weight to safety culture in controlling accident risk than did offshore platform workers or non-offshore divers. This may reflect less exposure to the safety culture of the enterprise, as this group mostly consists of short-term contract workers. (104785)
CIS 06-265 Changing requirements for the safety profession: Roles and tasks. Hale A., Ytrehus I., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2004, Vol.20, No.1, p.23-35. Illus. 29 ref. (In English) Internet: This article reviews the history of the safety profession in Europe, and identifies a number of questions about the role that safety professionals play in risk prevention and control. A multinational study of the tasks of safety professionals has been launched under the auspices of the European Network of Safety and Health Practitioner Organisations to learn more about what safety professionals actually do in practice. The survey was launched in ten European countries, while six more have given their commitment to join in. The article also discusses the challenges of setting up such an international comparison. Some preliminary results from the analysis of the first two countries where data are available, Norway and the Netherlands, are included. (104802)
CIS 06-266 Regulating safety at work: The recovery of an idea. Tombs S., Policy and Practice in Health and Safety, 2005, Vol.3, No.1, p.5-16. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: This article sets out the key findings of a review of the activities of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) from 1996 to 2001 and identifies a significant decrease in inspections and an increase in investigations. It is argued that, while there is a wide range of evidence indicating that enforcement has a key role to play in improving standards of occupational safety, the government seems set on a path away from enforcement towards a greater focus on advice and education. The impact of globalization on the relative feasibility of regulatory options is discussed and it is concluded that external inspection, backed by a credible threat of enforcement action, is a necessary condition of an effective regulatory regime. (104821)
CIS 06-267 The implementation of a health and safety management system and its interaction with organisational/safety culture: An industrial case study. Baird D., Policy and Practice in Health and Safety, 2005, Vol.3, No.1, p.17-39. Illus. 53 ref. (In English) Internet: This article describes a study of the effectiveness of an occupational safety and health management system within an organization. It discusses the core influences on the management system at the study site and describes the development and testing of an analytical model founded on previous quality management research. The study demonstrates the high degree of mutual interaction and interdependence between organisational/safety culture and a safety and health management intervention. (104822)
CIS 06-268 Measuring occupational safety: From safety culture to safety orientation?. Håvold J.I., Policy and Practice in Health and Safety, 2005, Vol.3, No.1, p.85-105. Illus. 72 ref. (In English) Internet: Based on an analysis of nine papers, this article reviews measures of safety climate and safety culture and uses them as a foundation for a new and more practical construct named "safety orientation". Factors and items from the scales are discussed with respect to factor name and importance, reliability and validity. Safety orientation is proposed as an operational model of safety culture and as a first step towards a more practical instrument for benchmarking safety. (104823)
CIS 06-269 Computer based safety training: An investigation of methods. Wallen E.S., Mulloy K.B., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2005, Vol.62, No.4, p.257-262. Illus. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: Three versions of a computer based respirator training module were presented to manufacturing workers: one consisting of text only; one with text, pictures and animation; and one with text, narration, pictures, and animation. Participants receiving the concurrent narration with pictures and animation scored significantly higher on the transfer test than did workers receiving the other two types of instruction. It is concluded that narration with pictures and text may be a more effective method for training workers about safety than other popular methods of computer based training. (104865)
CIS 06-270 Assessing the workplace safety climate. Williams W., Purdy S., Storey L., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2005, Vol.21, No.1, p.61-66. Illus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: When carrying out an occupational safety and health survey, questionnaires or interviews should be restricted in length because of restrictions of space, employees' time and, in particular, the attention span of the respondents. This article describes the attempt to reduce the size of a large safety climate questionnaire while retaining its reliability and validity. The result was a six-item questionnaire which nonetheless had excellent reliability and validity compared with the original, larger questionnaire. The questionnaire may be used for the examination of an organization's safety culture without the need for a larger research tool. (104953)
CIS 06-271 The impact of organizational practices on safety in manufacturing: A review and reappraisal. Wilson-Donnelly K.A., Priest H.A., Salas E., Burke C.S., Human Factors and Ergonomics in Manufacturing, Spring 2005, Vol.15, No.2, p.135-176. Illus. 160 ref. (In English) Internet: Research suggests that human error contributes to two thirds of the incidents and accidents that occur in manufacturing industries. Many organizations take a micro-level approach to addressing workplace safety, by focusing on individual workers. However, it has been argued that organizations should take a broader macro-level approach to improving workplace safety. Despite the suggested benefits of macro-level approaches such as a positive safety culture, it is found that their implementation is lacking in many organizations. This article presents guidelines to assist in the development of a safety culture that encourages safe practices at all levels of the organization. (104958)
CIS 06-272 A new statistical card for accidents at work. (Polish: Nowa statystyczna karta wypadku przy pracy) Bojanowski R., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, 2005, No.7-8, p.15-19. Illus. 4 ref. (In Polish) Internet: An ordinance from the Minister for Economic Affairs and Labour concerning a statistical card for accidents at work is discussed. The ordinance came into force in January 2005. The changes introduced to the sample statistical card for accidents are described and the information to be included in the card, as recommended by the statistical office of European Union (EUROSAT), is listed. (104934)
CIS 06-273 Accidents and diseases in 2003: A mixed bag of results. (French: Accidents et maladies en 2003, des résultats très mitigés) Talia J., Face au risque, Oct. 2005, No.416, p.31-32. Illus. (In French) Internet: In 2003 in France, there were more than 729,000 occupational accidents, slightly less than 35,000 cases of occupational disease and nearly 10,000 commuting accidents for a working population of 18 million. There was a decrease in the number of occupational accidents involving loss of work time, but an increase in their severity. Musculoskeletal diseases accounted for three quarters of all occupational diseases, while most of the fatalities (429 out of 485) were related to asbestos. (104765)
CIS 06-274 Significant industry-source of injury-accident type for occupational fatalities in Taiwan. Chi C.F., Chang T.C., Hung K.H., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2004, Vol.34, No.2, p.77-91. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: Data concerning 784 work-related single fatalities that occurred in 1999 and 2000 in Taiwan were subjected to statistical analyses. Significant fatal accident scenarios included: falls in the construction industry; being caught in between machinery or equipment during loading and unloading or in the manufacturing industry; explosions, contact with hazardous materials and extreme temperatures in the manufacturing industry; being struck by and against loading and unloading machinery during transport or storage; drowning in the farming and fishing sectors. High-risk groups included construction workers with less than one year of experience who were employed by small companies with less than 30 workers, and manufacturing workers with 1-15 years of experience who were employed by large companies with more than 30 workers. (104771)
CIS 06-275 Health and safety management in small enterprises: An effective low cost approach. Walker D., Tait R., Safety Science, Jan. 2004, Vol.42, No.1, p.69-83. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: The effectiveness of an approach developed in the United Kingdom to help small enterprises set up and operate a simple safety and health management system was assessed by visits to 24 enterprises. The assessment consisted of an interview, inspection of premises, document examination and assessment of training and maintenance standards. It was found that the approach was effective in helping enterprise managers to produce policy statements and risk assessments and to introduce a health and safety management system. However, many of the necessary arrangements had been in place prior to the intervention. It is suggested that the intervention may have been effective in bringing these diverse arrangements together in order to produce a coherent management system. (104783)
CIS 06-276 Towards an international limit value for occupational trauma risk: Industrial exposures associated with occupational trauma, permanent impairment and fatalities in a five-year national claims material. Larsson T.J., Forsblom M., Safety Science, Jan. 2005, Vol.43, No.1, p.61-71. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: Data from the Swedish insurance information system on work-related injuries associated with permanent impairment and fatalities were analysed for all occupations over the five-year period 1997-2001. Occupational groups with a higher than average rate of trauma injury associated with permanent impairment and fatality were identified and information on typical accident mechanisms, equipment and processes resulting in trauma was retrieved. It is suggested that the resulting lists of occupational exposures associated with high injury risks can be used to indicate the nature of restrictions necessary for children under the age of 18 in relation to harmful industrial exposures. (104790)
CIS 06-277 Milestones in policy and practice in health and safety: A special issue. Walters D., ed., Policy and Practice in Health and Safety, 2005, Vol. 3, No. 2, supplement, p.1-136 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: This special issue contains six articles considered to have made a key contribution to the discourse on occupational safety and health when they were originally published. They cover discussions of various topics: accident research (accident proneness and causation); asbestos exposure and pleural mesothelioma; corporate influence on threshold limit values; understanding perceived risk; early factory crime; critical review of the 1972 report of the Robens Committee on Safety and Health at Work. (104902)
CIS 06-278 Occupational risks in Latin America. (German: Arbeitsplatzrisiken in Lateinamerika) Castro Gutiérrez A., International Social Security Review - Revue internationale de sécurité sociale, 2005, Vol.58, No.2-3, p.119-132. 10 ref. (In German) Internet: Protection against occupational accidents and diseases has a long history in Latin America. There have however been very few studies of this branch of social security, despite the fact that as a vehicle of social protection it is of the greatest importance for any society. In view of its implications in terms of improved worker protection and greater productivity in the economy, this form of insurance deserves greater attention. This article attempts to give an overview of the evolution of occupational risk insurance in Latin America, as well as its current problems and status. It discusses specific aspects of selected schemes, with concluding observations on the challenges now faced by such schemes in the region. (104921)
CIS 06-279 From integrated management to global management. (French: Du management intégré au management global) Seillan H., Peyrat O., Harmand C., Croguennec B., Mathieu S., Morvan J., Préventique-Sécurité, May-June 2005, No.81, p.4-29. Illus. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: Collection of articles on occupational safety and health management. Topics addressed: role of standards institutions (ISO, AFNOR); guiding principles and advantages of global management; standards and other reference documents for management systems (in particular the ILO Guidelines on occupational safety and health management systmes (ILO-OSH 2001); global and integrated approaches to management; importance of early warning in global management. (104929)
CIS 06-280 Social costs of accidents at work in Poland. (Polish: Społeczne koszty wypadków przy pracy w Polsce) Rzepecki J., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, 2005, No.7-8, p.34-37. 7 ref. (In Polish) Internet: This article describes procedures for calculating the social costs of accidents at work according to the method developed in the Central Institute for Labour Protection, National Research Institute. The social costs of occupational accidents in Poland in 2002 were estimated on the basis of costs incurred at company level and by injured persons and their families and the costs of medical treatment. (104936)
CIS 06-281 Bringing the benefits of information technology to industrial hygiene records management. Schaper L., Chesson B., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 2005, Vol.21, No.2, p.157-162. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: This article describes the initiatives undertaken by a large Australian mining, refining and smelting company to create a fully electronic, text-searchable records management database for all industrial hygiene-related documentation. The development of the system involved software purchase and testing and the scanning of over 5,000 documents covering a period of 40 years or more. The system provides an efficient method for the storage and retrieval of health and safety records. (104955)
CIS 06-282 Senior technician in occupational safety and hygiene - Technician in occupational safety and hygiene - Advisory guide. (Portuguese: Técnico superior de segurança e higiene do trabalho - Técnico de segurança e higiene do trabalho - Guia de apoio) Instituto de Desenvolvimento e Inspecção das Condições de Trabalho (IDICT), Lisboa, Portugal, 2004. 102p. Illus. + CD-ROM., ISBN 972-8321-71-6 (In Portuguese) Internet: This manual provides information on how to obtain the qualification of certified technician and certified senior technician in occupational safety and hygiene. It specifies the prerequisites (work experience, vocational training, correspondence of diplomas), the steps involved in the certification process starting from the time of application, and the procedure for certification renewal. In appendices: lists of accredited institutions that provide training courses; course contents. A CD-ROM version of the manual in PDF format is included. (104985)
CIS 06-283 Occupational diseases in the region of Lisbon and Vale de Tejo 2003. (Portuguese: Doenças profissionais na região de Lisboa e Vale do Tejo no ano de 2003) Castro M., Moreira S., Santos C.S., Centro regional de saúde pública de Lisboa e Vale do Tejo (CRSP), Av. Estados Unidos da América 53-D, 1700-165 Lisboa, Portugal, Dec. 2004. 32p. Illus. 20 ref. (In Portuguese) Internet: Statistics of reported occupational diseases in the region of Lisbon and Vale do Tejo for the year 2003. Results are presented by age, sex, sub-region and outcome (with or without invalidity, degree of invalidity). Occupational diseases that resulted in the largest number of reports were hearing loss (147 out of 375) and musculoskeletal diseases (145 out of 375). Risk factors relating to these two diseases are described, together with applicable prevention measures. (104987)
CIS 06-284 Practical guide aimed at workplace safety and health committees. (French: Guide pratique pour le comité pour la prévention et la protection au travail [Belgique]) Cellule publications, Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Belliard 51, 1040 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2004. 63p. 74 ref. (In French) Internet: This booklet examines the Belgian Royal Order of 3 May 1999 on the objectives and functioning of workplace safety and health committees (see CIS 00-8). It provides an overview of their creation, composition, mission, operation and internal rules, as well as of the status of the employees' representatives and the procedures governing disputes, inspections and penalties. Appendices include the full text of the Order together with the information that needs to be presented in the monthly and annual reports of the internal workplace safety and health service. (104762)
CIS 06-285 Decent work and poverty reduction strategies (PRS): A reference manual for ILO staff and constituents. (French: Travail décent et stratégies de réduction de la pauvreté: Manuel de référence pour les fonctionnaires du BIT et les mandants de l'OIT; Spanish: El trabajo decente y las estrategias de lucha contra la pobreza: Manual de referencia para funcionarios y mandantes de la OIT) Policy Integration Department, ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. xiv, 153p. Bibl.réf. Includes CD-ROM., ISBN 92-2-116600-7 (En), ISBN 92-2-216600-0 (fr), ISBN 92-2-316600-4 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This manual provides practical guidance for ILO constituents and staff on strengthening the link between the ILO's Decent Work Agenda and new national frameworks for poverty reduction. It refers to the role of the ILO SafeWork programme and the International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS) in extending social protection into the workplace. (104910)
CIS 06-286 The role of information in shaping safety at work in an information society. (Polish: Rola informacji w kształtowaniu bezpieczeństwa pracy w warunkach społeczeństwa informacyjnego) Młodzka-Stybel A., Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy - Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 96p. 130 ref. Illus., ISBN 83-7373-141-5 (In Polish) Internet: The problems of shaping safe and healthy conditions of work in the context of the development of the information society are examined. Changes in the work environment and new strategies in safety improvement are described and the influence of information policy and information dissemination on safety awareness and safety culture are described. Conclusions for the planning and realization of information promotion activities in the field of OSH are set out. (104940)
CIS 06-287 Occupational safety and health - Glossary. (Portuguese: Saúde e segurança do trabalho - Glossário) de Sousa Uva A., Graça L., Sociedade Portuguesa de Medicina do Trabalho, Lisboa, Portugal, 2004. 272p. 220 ref. (In Portuguese) Internet: Glossary of frequently-used occupational safety and health terms and expressions, institutions active in this field and persons having played an important role in the history of occupational medicine. For each term, French and English equivalents are provided, together with a definition, a comment and literature references. (104988)
CIS 06-288 Current situation and future prospects for occupational health and occupational hazards in Columbia taking an environmental approach. (Spanish: Diagnóstico actual y prospectivo de la salud ocupacional y los riesgos profesionales en Colombia con enfoques de entornos) Ministério de la Protección Social, Bogotá, Colombia, 2005. 98p. Illus. 60 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This publication provides a critical review of the current situation and future prospects for occupational health in Colombia. It summarizes the findings of a study carried out to identify the priority areas for training. Topics addressed include: organization of the health system; socio-economic and technology aspects; training in occupational health and occupational hazards; profiles of OSH specialists; environmental issues (chemical hazard control, non-polluting production). (104989)
CIS 06-289 Manual: Practical occupational safety and health solutions. (Spanish: Manual: Soluciones prácticas en seguridad y salud en el trabajo) Coordinadora interfederal de Salud (CIS), Calle Cervantes 158, interior 2, Lima 1, Peru, 2004. 114p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This manual presents an approach for developing practical solutions for controlling safety and health hazards. Answers to specific problems based on this approach are presented for various sectors: agriculture; manual handling and transport of loads; small underground mines; construction. The format is that of a sheet describing the problem, the proposed solution and additional information. (104990)
CIS 06-290 Guidelines on occupational safety and health management systems - ILO-OSH 2001. (Swahili: Mwongozo wa Usimamizi wa Mifumo ya Usalama na Afya Kazini - ILO-OSH 2001) Mkurugenzi, Shirika la Kazi Duniani (ILO), Ofisi ya Kenya, Somalia, Tanzania na Uganda, P.O. Box 9212, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 2005. 27p. Illus. 37 ref., ISBN 92-2-911634-3 (In Swahili) Internet: Swahili translation of the ILO guidelines (see CIS 02-162), which call for coherent policies to protect workers from occupational hazards. They present practical approaches and tools for assisting organizations, competent national institutions, employers, workers and other partners in establishing, implementing and improving occupational safety and health management systems, with the aim of reducing work-related injuries, ill health, diseases, incidents and deaths. At the national level, the guidelines provide for the establishment of a national framework for occupational safety and health (OSH) management systems, preferably supported by national laws and regulations. They also provide precise information on developing voluntary arrangements to strengthen compliance with regulations and standards, which, in turn, lead to continual improvement of OSH performance. At the organizational level, the guidelines encourage the integration of OSH management system elements as an important component of overall policy and management arrangements. (104815)
CIS 06-291 Being professional - Meeting on education and training - Occupations and occupational hazards. (Portuguese: Ser profissional - Encontro de educação/formação - As profissões e os riscos profissionais) Instituto de Desenvolvimento e Inspecção das Condições de Trabalho (IDICT), Lisboa, Portugal, 2004. 45p. Illus. (In Portuguese) Internet: This guide lists the main hazards associated with various occupational activities, together with the corresponding preventive measures. Activity sectors considered include: textiles; construction; wood; ceramics; services; glass; graphic arts; car repair; hairdressing; metalworking; agriculture; catering. Lists of approved training courses in occupational safety and health are also included. (104982)
CIS 06-292 Annual statistics of occupational accidents 2003. (Portuguese: Anuário estatístico de acidentes do trabalho 2003) Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego, Esplanada dos Ministérios. Bloco F, Ed Anexo, Ala B, 1° Andar, Sala 147/151, 70059-900 Brasília DF, Brazil, 2003. CD-ROM (needs Windows 95/98 and Microsoft Excel 97 or higher). (In Portuguese) Internet: Compilation of statistics of reported occupational accidents and diseases in Brazil for the year 2003 on CD-ROM. For occupational accidents, commuting accidents and occupational diseases, data are expressed by region, State and municipality, as well as by sector of activity, type, age group, consequences and indicators (frequency rates, severity, mortality rate, morbidity rate and cost). Besides the electronic version of the 2003 edition, the CD-ROM contains all data published since 1999 in a format that enables users to compile their own tables and graphs. (104981)
CIS 06-293 Airway symptoms, immunological response and exposure in powder painting. Blomqvist A., Düzakin-Nystedt M., Ohlson C.G., Andersson L., Jönsson B., Nielsen J., Welinder H., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Mar. 2005, Vol.78, No.2, p.123-131. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: Powder coating is an alternative to solvent-based spray painting. Powder paints may contain organic acid anhydrides (OAAs), which are irritants to the airways and may cause sensitization. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and immunological response among powder coaters and to describe their exposure to OAAs. Participants included 93 exposed and 26 formerly exposed workers, and 86 unexposed workers who completed a questionnaire on working conditions and symptoms and underwent medical examinations. Although the exposure to OAAs was estimated to be low, IgG antibodies to OAA were observed in some subjects. There was a relatively high prevalence of eye and airway symptoms among the powder coaters that were clearly related to exposure. The symptoms were probably caused by the irritating properties of powder paint dust. (104897)
CIS 06-294 Characterization of respiratory exposures at a microwave popcorn plant with cases of bronchiolitis obliterans. Kullman G., Boylstein R., Jones W., Piacitelli C., Pendergrass S., Kreiss K., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Mar. 2005, Vol.2, No.3, p.169-178. Illus. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: Eight former workers from a popcorn packaging plant were reported to have severe obstructive lung disease consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans. Investigations into respiratory exposures were carried out at the plant. Air samples were collected to assess airborne particulate concentrations, particle size distributions, endotoxins, nitrogen oxides and other chemicals. Bulk corn and flavoring components were also analyzed for endotoxins and culturable bacteria and fungi. Findings confirm that workers involved in popcorn packaging can be exposed to a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds from flavouring ingredients. Animal studies show that diacetyl can cause airway epithelial injury, although the contribution of other specific compounds associated with obstructive respiratory disease remains unresolved. (104920)
CIS 06-295 Work-related asthma in the spray-on truck bed lining industry. Bonauto D.K., Sumner A.D., Curwick C.C., Whittaker S.G., Lofgren D.J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.514-517. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined compensation claims for occupational asthma associated with exposure to methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) among workers involved in spray-on truck bed lining. A descriptive study of workers' compensation claims was conducted. Eight such claims were identified between 1993 and 2002, resulting in a claims incidence rate of 200 per 10,000 full-time equivalent workers employed. This rate is excessive and suggests a need for significant intervention, including improvements in the clinical assessment provided to MDI-exposed workers. (104965)
CIS 06-296 Asbestos-related diseases risks still exist. Lemen R.A., European Journal of Oncology, Mar. 2005, Vol.10, No.1, p.9-30. 269 ref. (In English) Internet: While many countries have passed laws to ban all uses of asbestos, it is still widely used in the world today. The asbestos industry promotes controlled use as an acceptable public health policy for the continued use of asbestos. In addition, it is promoting the use of chrysotile asbestos as a safe alternative to replace the amphibole forms of asbestos. The Collegium Ramazzini's concern for the continued use of asbestos formed the basis for the "Call for an International Ban on Asbestos" in 1999. This paper provides a literature survey of the current status of health issues in support of the statement. (104970)
CIS 06-297 Shedding light on low back pain and work. (French: Lumière sur les lombalgies et travail) Hajaij K., Rammeh H., Nouaigui H., Ben Laiba M., SST - Santé et Sécurité au Travail, Oct. 2005, No.35, p.6-25. Illus. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: Contents of this review article on low back pain caused by occupational factors: definition and classification; epidemiology; anatomy of the lumbar column; biomechanics; physiopathology; diagnosis approach; aetiology; risk factors (manual handling, vibrations, physical workload, smoking, pregnancy, family history, osteoporosis, psychosocial factors); medical treatment; prevention at the place of work; regulatory aspects and role of the occupational physician in determining the aptitude to return to work; glossary of main terms. (104766)
CIS 06-298 Lung function decline in laboratory animal workers: The role of sensitization and exposure. Portengen L., Hollander A., Doekes G., de Meer G., Heederik D., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2003, Vol.60, No.11, p.870-875. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: The relation between exposure and sensitization to laboratory animal allergens and changes in lung function was investigated in a longitudinal study (median follow up 2.0 years) among 319 laboratory animal workers. A total of 102 subjects who had been working with laboratory animals for less than four years were analysed separately, since an earlier cross sectional analysis had suggested a strong healthy worker effect in more experienced workers. In multiple regression analyses, both sensitization and exposure appeared to contribute independently to lung function decline, after adjusting for gender, age, smoking and atopy. Lung function decline was most pronounced in sensitized subjects who continued to be in contact with the animals to which they were sensitized. (104827)
CIS 06-299 Occupations associated with bullae on chest radiographs in Japanese middle-aged men. Mitsumune T., Senoh E., Kayashima E., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2005, Vol.78, No.3, p.185-188. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: In this cross-sectional study, health screening data for 27,361 men in their 50s was analysed to examine the relationship between occupation and bullae seen on chest radiographs. Age and smoking significantly increased the odds ratio of the risk for developing bullae. The transport and the wholesale and retail trade sectors were associated with significantly increased risk (odds ratios 1.6 and 1.5, respectively). Within the transport sector, warehousing in particular showed a 2.7-fold increase in risk. Road passenger transport, road freight transport, and retail were also associated with increased risk (odds ratios 1.3, 1.4 and 1.3, respectively). This study suggests that independently of age or smoking, the prevalence of bullae is associated with the warehouse, road transport and retail industries in which workers may be exposed to exhaust gas. (104858)
CIS 06-300 Incidence and prevalence rates for occupational contact dermatitis in an Australian suburban area. Keegel T., Cahill J., Noonan A., Dharmage S., Saunders H., Frowen K., Nixon R., Contact Dermatitis, May 2005, Vol.52, No.5, p.254-259. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigated the incidence of occupational contact dermatitis (OCD) for a defined geographical area in Melbourne, Australia. Two methods of data collection were used. In the first method, 30 general practitioners, two dermatologists and one dermatology outpatient clinic within a defined area reported each worker with suspected OCD seen as part of routine practice. With the second method, workers living in the area who were referred to a tertiary referral OCD clinic were included in the study. Patch testing was used to verify suspected cases. The incidence rate for confirmed cases was 20.5 per 100,000 workers. The one-year-period prevalence rate was 34.5 per 100,000 workers. The positive predictive value was highest for the occupational dermatology clinic referrals (63%) compared with reports from the dermatologists and the outpatient clinic (55%) and from general practitioners (43%). (104912)
CIS 06-301 Predictors of work-related repetitive strain injuries in a population cohort. Cole D.C., Ibrahim S., Shannon H.S., American Journal of Public Health, July 2005, Vol.95, No.7, p.1233-1237. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: This study assessed predictors of work-related repetitive strain injuries using data from the Canadian National Population Health Survey. Participants were 2806 working adults who completed an abbreviated version of the Job Content Questionnaire in 1994-1995 and did not experience repetitive strain injuries prior to 2000-2001. Predictors of work-related repetitive strain injuries were modelled via multivariate logistic regression. It was found that female gender (odds ratio OR=1.98), some college or university education (OR=1.98), job insecurity (OR=1.76), high physical exertion levels (OR=2.00), and high levels of psychological demands (OR=1.61) were all positively associated with work-related repetitive strain injuries, whereas working less than 30 hours per week exhibited a negative association with such injuries (OR=0.2). (104917)
CIS 06-302 Action speaks louder. Duignan K., Safety and Health Practitioner, June 2005, Vol.23, No.6, p.50-53. Illus. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: This article reviews occupational voice disorders. It describes some of the causes of vocal strain, throat irritation, hoarseness and loss of voice including physical factors (background noise, smoke, low humidity, postural strain), workload and psychological factors (stress, interpersonal conflict). It identifies persons at risk, and examines the management of occupational voice hazards and economic and legal aspects. (104927)
CIS 06-303 Job and industry classifications associated with sarcoidosis in a case-control etiologic study of sarcoidosis (ACCESS). Barnard J., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2005, Vol.47, No.3, p.226-234. Illus. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: A case-control aetiological study was carried out to determine whether specific occupations and industries may be associated with sarcoidosis. Occupational histories on 706 newly-diagnosed sarcoidosis cases and matched controls were obtained. The Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) and Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) were used to assess occupational contributions to sarcoidosis risk. Univariate analysis identified elevated risk of sarcoidosis for workers with industrial organic dust exposures, especially among Caucasian workers. Workers for suppliers of building materials, hardware and gardening materials were also at an increased risk of sarcoidosis as were educators. Childcare was negatively associated with sarcoidosis risk for all workers, while jobs with metal dust or metal fume exposures were negatively associated with sarcoidosis risk in Caucasian workers. (104967)
CIS 06-304 Severity of silicosis at compensation between screened and unscreened workers. Infante-Rivard C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2005, Vol.47, No.3, p.265-271. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, clinical data from 1388 compensated silicotic workers in Quebec, Canada, were analysed. The severity of disease at compensation was compared between workers in the medical surveillance program and those who were not. A vital capacity at compensation of less than 80% of predicted value was less likely among workers under surveillance than among those who were not (odds ratio=0.59); the occurrence of a radiological image with large opacities and profusion of category 1/1 or more was also less likely in the group with surveillance (odds ratio=0.60). The data indicate a benefit from medical surveillance but possible alternative explanations are also discussed. (104968)
CIS 06-305 Potential occupational risks for neurodegenerative diseases. Park R.M., Schulte P.A., Bowman J.D., Walker J.T., Bondy S.C., Yost M.G., Touchstone J.A., Dosemeci M., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 2005, Vol.48, No.1, p.63-77. 95 ref. (In English) Internet: Hypotheses concerning associations between occupations and neurodegenerative diseases were tested in death certificate data from 22 states of the USA for the years 1992-1998. Specific occupations and exposures to pesticides, solvents, oxidative stressors, magnetic fields and welding fumes were evaluated. One third of the occupations hypothesized with neurodegenerative associations had statistically significant elevated neurodegenerative disease mortality odds ratios (MOR). Occupations with the largest MORs for presenile dementia (PSD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and motor neuron disease (MND) were identified. Teachers had significantly elevated MORs for all four diseases, and hairdressers and non-horticultural farmers for three of the four. Occupations involving exposure to 60 hertz magnetic fields exhibited significant exposure-response for AD and, below age 65, for PD and MND. Welding had elevated PD mortality below age 65. (105000)
CIS 06-306 Respiratory status in dairy farmers in France; cross sectional and longitudinal analyses. Chaudemanche H., Monnet E., Westeel V., Pernet D., Dubiez A., Perrin C., Laplante J.J., Depierre A., Dalphin J.C., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2003, Vol.60, No.11, p.858-863. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: To compare respiratory status in dairy farmers with that of non-farming controls, a longitudinal study was carried out in a region of France. From a cohort constituted in 1994 (T1), 215 (81.1%) dairy farmers and 110 (73.8%) controls were re-evaluated in 1999 (T2). The protocol comprised a medical and occupational questionnaire, spirometric tests at both evaluations, allergological tests at T1, and a non-invasive measure of blood oxygen saturation at T2. In 1999, the prevalence of chronic bronchitis was higher, and ventilatory capacity (FEV1/VC) and blood oxygen saturation was lower in dairy farmers than in controls. Results indicate that dairy farming is associated with an excess of chronic bronchitis, a moderate degree of bronchial obstruction and a mild decrease in blood oxygen saturation. (104826)
CIS 06-307 Lower back problems and occupational risk factors in a South African steel industry. van Vuuren B.J., Becker P.J., van Heerden H.J., Zinzen E., Meeusen R., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.451-457. 53 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to identify occupational risk factors associated with the prevalence of low back (LB) problems in a semi-automated South African steel plant. The design consisted of an analytical cross-sectional epidemiological study among a group of 366 workers. Outcome of LB problems were determined using a guided questionnaire and a functional rating index; exposure to occupational risk factors was determined using a self-reported questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated significant adjusted odds ratios (OR) for twisting and bending (OR 2.81), bulky manual handling (OR 5.58), load carriage (OR 7.20), prolonged sitting (OR 2.33), kneeling and squatting (OR 4.62) and working on slippery and uneven surfaces (3.63). The findings confirm the multifactorial etiology in idiopathic LB problems, and emphasize the importance of multiple intervention strategies in industrial settings. (104993)
CIS 06-308 Perilymphatic fistula in cabin attendants: An incapacitating consequence of flying with common cold. Klokker M., Vesterhauge S., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.76, No.1, p.66-68. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: A perilymphatic fistula (PLF) is an abnormal communication between the inner ear and the middle ear that leaks perilymph. It has also been described in connection with various activities including flying. The symptoms are uncharacteristic vertigo and, in some cases, hearing impairment and tinnitus. This study describes four cases of PLF during a period of six months in a major Scandinavian airline employing approximately 3000 cabin attendants (CAs). None of the cases was diagnosed at the primary health care level. All were referred to the aviation medical centre for investigation. The PLF diagnosis was based on the case history, platform pressure test (a fistula test), and other vestibular tests. Only one CA has been able to return to flying duties. The article emphasizes the risk of flying with poor middle ear equalization and the necessity of reminding airline crews never to fly with a common cold. (104791)
CIS 06-309 Breast cancer in airline cabin attendants: A nested case-control study in Iceland. Rafnsson V., Sulem P., Tulinius H., Hrafnkelsson J., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2003, Vol.60, No.11, p.807-809. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: To investigate whether length of employment as a cabin attendant was related to breast cancer risk, a case-control study nested in a cohort of cabin attendants was carried out. A total of 35 breast cancer cases and 140 age matched controls selected from a cohort of 1532 female cabin attendants were included in the study. The odds ratio of breast cancer risk among cases was 5.24 for those who had five or more years of employment before 1971 compared with those with less than five years of employment before 1971, adjusted for age at first childbirth and length of employment from 1971 or later. These findings indicate that occupational factors may be an important cause of breast cancer among cabin attendants. (104824)
CIS 06-310 Cancer incidence in airline cabin crew: Experience from Sweden. Linnersjö A., Hammar N., Dammström B.G., Johansson M., Eliasch H., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2003, Vol.60, No.11, p.810-814. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: Cancer incidence among Swedish cabin flight attendants (2324 women and 632 men) employed from 1957 to 1994 was determined during 1961-96 from the Swedish national cancer register and compared with that of the Swedish population. This nested case-control study involved all cancer cases diagnosed after 1979 together with four controls per case matched by gender, age and calendar year. The standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for all cancers were 1.01 for women and 1.16 for men. Both men and women had an increased incidence of malignant melanoma of the skin (SIR 2.18 and 3.66 respectively) and men of non-melanoma skin cancer (SIR 4.42). Female cabin attendants had a non-significant increase of breast cancer (SIR 1.30). No clear associations were found between length of employment and cancer incidence. (104825)
CIS 06-311 Risks of brain tumors in rubber workers: A metaanalysis. Borak J., Slade M.D., Russi M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2005, Vol.47, No.3, p.294-298. 37 ref. (In English) Internet: A meta-analysis of brain tumour risk estimates reported in cohort studies of rubber and tyre industry workers was carried out to investigate whether these workers suffer increased risks of brain tumour. Twenty unique cohorts were identified that met predefined inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis determined an overall relative risk of 0.90. This finding is consistent with that of earlier studies concluding that risks of brain tumour are not increased as a result of occupational exposures in the rubber and tyre industry. (104969)
CIS 06-312 Eye complaints in the office environment: Precorneal tear film integrity influenced by eye blinking efficiency. Wolkoff P., Nøjgaard J.K., Troiano P., Piccoli B., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.62, No.1, p.4-12. Illus. 152 ref. (In English) Internet: Based on a literature review, it is concluded that eye complaints due to precorneal tear film (PTF) alteration may be caused by thermal factors (low relative humidity, high room temperature), demanding task content (attention decreases blinking and widens the exposed ocular surface area) and individual characteristics (blinking anomalies, gland dysfunctions, use of contact lenses). These factors and conditions are able to progressively increase water evaporation and faster thinning of the PTF, which causes dryness and dry spot formation on the cornea, possibly followed by corneal and conjunctiva epithelial alterations and eye complaints. Another possible cause of eye complaints is the presence of certain irritating chemical compounds. (104867)
CIS 06-313 Secondary individual prevention of hand dermatitis in geriatric nurses. Schürer N.Y., Klippel U., Schwanitz H.J., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Mar. 2005, Vol.78, No.2, p.149-157. Illus. 37 ref. (In English) Internet: The incidence of hand dermatitis in geriatric nurses is increasing in Germany. A prospective controlled study of a secondary individual prevention (SIP) programme for hand dermatitis was conducted, involving information and training on the proper use of gloves and barrier creams. 209 geriatric nurses with a medical history of hand dermatitis completed questionnaires prior to the start of the programme and three months after its conclusion, including 102 who participated in the SIP and 107 controls who were not offered the programme. Upon completion of the study, 59% of SIP participants were free of hand eczema. Questionnaires three months after study completion revealed skin lesions in 53% of participants and 82% of the controls. There was a significant improvement in the epidermal barrier among programme participants. It is concluded that SIP is effective in preventing hand eczema. (104899)
CIS 06-314 Musculoskeletal disorders: Where we are, and where we could be. (French: Les troubles musculo-squelettiques: état de la question et perspectives d'action) Gauthy R., HESA Newsletter, June 2005, No.27, p.22-27. 5 ref. (In English, French) Internet: Review article on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in Europe. Topics addressed: object, scope and definitions; epidemiological aspects; failure of existing preventive measures; list of European preventive instruments; suggested improvements in legislation and other instruments to stem the growth of MSDs in Europe. (104792)
CIS 06-315 Design of exposure questionnaires for epidemiological studies. Nieuwenhuijsen M.J., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2005, Vol.62, No.4, p.272-280. Illus. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: Questionnaires are frequently used in epidemiological studies for occupational exposure assessment. This article discusses some of the issues that need to be taken into account when designing such questionnaires, namely: use of self-administered or interviewer-administered questionnaires; use of open ended or closed ended questions; use of proper wording; examples of poorly-worded questions; format of the questionnaire; useful complementary questions; pilot testing; translation; validity. (104866)
CIS 06-316 Epidemiological surveillance of mortality and investigation of spatial and temporal clusters of cases. General principles and necessary data. (French: Surveillance épidémiologique de la mortalité et investigation d'agrégats spatio-temporels en entreprise. Principes généraux et données nécessaires) Institut de veille sanitaire, 12, rue du Val d'Osne, 94415 Saint-Maurice cedex, France, June 2004. 40p. Illus. 26 ref. (In French) Internet: The purpose of this methodological guide is to facilitate and to promote epidemiological surveillance of workers by conducting systematic epidemiological studies of medical causes of death and by investigating suspected clusters of cases. The major steps of mortality and incidence studies are presented, namely: constitution of a cohort; collection of mortality and incidence data; statistical methods used to calculate standardized mortality ratios (SMR) and standardized incidence ratios (SIR). Two mortality studies and one incidence study are provided as examples. (104841)
CIS 06-317 Information document for radiologists. Post-employment surveillance of workers previously exposed to asbestos. (French: Document d'information pour les radiologues. Surveillance post-professionnelle des salariés anciennement exposés à l'amiante) Ministère des affaires sociales, du travail et de la solidarité, La documentation française, 124, rue Henri Barbusse, 93308 Aubervilliers Cedex, France, [c2003]. 24p. (In French) Internet: Persons exposed to asbestos in France may apply for medical surveillance. In this context, the French Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour and Solidarity in collaboration with the National Medical Insurance Institution (CNAM) established a pilot project in three regions of France. The programme involved medical and radiological examinations of previously exposed volunteer subjects and an evaluation of their exposures. This guide is aimed at radiologists participating in post-employment surveillance within the framework of this pilot project. Contents: informed consent form; practical aspects of conducting thoracic tomography examinations; transmission of the radiological documents to the regional coordination body. Appendices include a list of regional coordinators and information to be given to patients. See also CIS 06-318 and 06-319. (104843)
CIS 06-318 Guide to the identification of asbestos exposure by the occupational physician. (French: Guide de repérage des expositions à l'amiante par le médecin du travail) Ministère des affaires sociales, du travail et de la solidarité, La documentation française, 124, rue Henri Barbusse, 93308 Aubervilliers Cedex, France, [c2003]. 30p. Illus. (In French) Internet: Persons exposed to asbestos in France may apply for medical surveillance. In this context, the French Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour and Solidarity in collaboration with the National Medical Insurance Institution (CNAM) established a pilot project in three regions of France. The programme involved medical and radiological examinations of previously exposed volunteer subjects and an evaluation of their exposures. This guide is aimed at occupational physicians participating in the assessment of occupational exposure of workers and its classification into "high", "intermediate" and "low" exposure. It contains detailed questionnaires aimed at tracing the occupational history of employees and quantifying their exposure to asbestos. It also explains how to evaluate an individual's total occupational exposure to asbestos. See also CIS 06-317 and 06-319. (104844)
CIS 06-319 Guide for the general practitioner or the lung specialist. Experimental protocol for the surveillance of workers previously exposed to asbestos. (French: Guide pour le médecin traitant, généraliste ou pneumologue. Protocole expérimental de surveillance médicale des sujets ayant été exposés à l'amiante) Ministère des affaires sociales, du travail et de la solidarité, La documentation française, 124, rue Henri Barbusse, 93308 Aubervilliers Cedex, France, [c2003]. 39p. (In French) Internet: Persons exposed to asbestos in France may apply for medical surveillance. In this context, the French Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour and Solidarity in collaboration with the National Medical Insurance Institution (CNAM) established a pilot project in three regions of France. The programme involved medical and radiological examinations of previously exposed volunteer subjects and an evaluation of their exposures. This guide is aimed at general practitioners or lung specialists who carry out medical surveillance of the workers. It describes the practical aspects of patient follow-up. Various appendices include in particular the regulatory framework, the list of regional coordinators and an informed consent letter. See also CIS 06-317 and 06-318. (104845)
CIS 06-320 Work-related zoonoses. (French: Zoonoses d'origine professionnelle) Abadia G., Picu C., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 4th Quarter 2005, No.149, 10p. 56 ref. (In French) Internet: Zoonoses are diseases transmitted to man by animals. Common ways of becoming infected include working in occupations involving contact with animals. An understanding of the means of transmission of these diseases enables the selection of appropriate protective measures. These should be based on limiting risks at the source by adopting strict hygiene measures within the premises and at the individual level and by wearing personal protective equipment suited to the mode of entry of the responsible microorganism. Workers should also be informed of the potential hazards. This article describes the main zoonoses encountered in occupational settings and the corresponding means of prevention. (104770)
CIS 06-321 Household youth on minority operated farms in the United States, 2000: Exposures to and injuries from work, horses, ATVs and tractors. Hendricks K.J., Myers J.R., Layne L.A., Goldcamp E.M., Journal of Safety Research, 2005, Vol.36, No.2, p.149-157. Illus. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: It is likely that youth living on minority operated (i.e. racial minority and Hispanic) farms in the USA face hazards similar to the general farm population; however, since minority youth are not well represented by general farm surveys, this information has not been confirmed. In this study, nonfatal injury and occupational exposure data were obtained from the 2000 Minority Farm Operator Childhood Agricultural Injury Survey. On minority-operated farms, there were an estimated 28,600 household youth. Of these, about 41% worked, 26% rode a horse, 23% drove an ATV and 23% operated a tractor. On Hispanic farms, there were an estimated 18,000 household youth. Of these, 44% worked, 30% rode a horse, 27% drove an ATV, and 25% operated a tractor. Injury rates are analysed and results show the value of conducting a survey of minorities to identify high-risk groups and target issues that may be unique to the minority farm population. (104924)
CIS 06-322 Working conditions and health complaints among forest machine operators in north compared to central Europe. (Russian: Sravnitel'nyj analiz uslovij truda i sostojanija zdorov'ja operatorov mašin v lesnoj promyšlennosti severnoj i central'noj Evropy) Veiersted K.B., Vik T., Barents - Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, 2005, Vol.8, No.1, p.13-16 (English); p.16-19 (Russian). Illus. 6 ref. (In English, Russian) Internet: This article summarizes the main findings of a European Union funded project aimed at analysing the working conditions and the state of health of machinery operators in the logging industry. It focuses on comparing the findings for a cross-sectional sample of 129 operators in Nordic countries with those of 229 operators in France, Germany, the United Kingdom and Poland. The most common musculoskeletal complaints in both groups were neck and low back pain. Topics addressed: workers' age and years of work; working conditions; health aspects; sickness absenteeism and sick presence; future plans for improving working conditions. (104828)
CIS 06-323 Relationships of job, age, and life conditions with the causes and severity of occupational injuries in construction workers. Chau N., Gauchard G.C., Siegfried C., Benamghar L., Dangelzer J.L., Français M., Jacquin R., Sourdot A., Perrin P.P., Mur J.M., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan. 2004, Vol.77, No.1, p.60-66. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: To asses the relationships between job, age, and life conditions and the causes and severity of occupational injuries, 880 male construction workers having had at least one occupational injury with subsequent sick leave were surveyed using a standardized questionnaire. Logistic models showed that falls and injuries from the handling of objects or hand tools was similar for all jobs, while masons, plumbers and electricians had a higher risk of injury from moving objects, and carpenters, roofers and civil-engineering workers were more exposed to injury from construction machinery and devices. Age below 30 was related to injury from hand tools (OR 2.20); sleep disorders and hearing disorders to injuries from moving objects (ORs 2.29 and 1.85 respectively); lack of sport activity to injuries from the handling of objects (OR 1.54); and being overweight to falls on the same level (OR 2.04) and falls to a lower level (OR 1.55). Injuries from the handling of objects were less frequent in overweight workers (OR 0.62). Injuries with hospitalisation or sick leave ≥60 days were associated with age ≥30 and hearing disorders. (104799)
CIS 06-324 Safety culture in railway maintenance. Farrington-Darby T., Pickup L., Wilson J.R., Safety Science, Jan. 2005, Vol.43, No.1, p.39-60. Illus. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: This paper discusses the practical problems of understanding and addressing unsafe behaviour and negative safety culture in rail maintenance. Analysis of interviews with staff enabled identification of 40 main factors that influence safe behaviour and safe culture. These factors ranged in proximity of their connection to the unsafe event from those that could be found at trackside and which directly influence the behaviour of the track workers on the day (e.g. the weather), to more medium term and distanced factors (e.g. the supervisors' style of management), to those at considerable distance in terms of where they emanate and can be changed, such as contradictory rules. As a result of this structured qualitative enquiry, the maintenance company most concerned disseminated findings throughout the organization and established a strategy to improve both safety systems and behaviour. (104789)
CIS 06-325 Occupational injuries and illnesses in the sawmill industry of Alberta. Jones T., Kumar S., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, May 2004, Vol.33, No.5, p.415-427. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: A comprehensive Workers Compensation Board of Alberta claims database for the sawmill industry describing 3779 claims was analysed for the years 1997-2002. A total of 48,025 days were lost as a result of injury and total claims costs were over eight million Canadian dollars. The majority of injuries resulting in claims were experienced by males 24-35 years of age with one to six months of work experience. Musculoskeletal injuries were the most common type of injury (46.7%). The upper extremity was the most frequently injured region of the body (45.5%). The majority of claims (54.5%) were defined as lost time claims and 46% as medical aid only. Incidence rates are compared with those reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (104833)
CIS 06-326 Management commitment to safety as organizational support: Relationships with non-safety outcomes in wood manufacturing employees. Michael J.H., Evans D.D., Jansen K.J., Haight J.M., Journal of Safety Research, 2005, Vol.36, No.2, p.171-179. 65 ref. (In English) Internet: Employee outcomes critical to the effective functioning of an organization, including job satisfaction and commitment to the organization, were included in surveys of 641 workers at three wood products manufacturing sites. Participants were asked about perceptions of management commitment to safety and job-related variables such as perceived dangerousness of their position, organizational culture and withdrawal behaviours. Supervisors also rated the safety performance of each of their subordinates. Results suggest that employee outcomes differ based on perceptions of management's commitment to safety. Specifically, management commitment to safety was related to job satisfaction, organizational culture and job-related performance, while a negative relationship was found between commitment to safety and employee withdrawal behaviours. (104925)
CIS 06-327 Chronic laryngitis in glassblowers. Baletic N., Jakovljevic B., Marmut Z., Petrovic Z., Paunovic K., Industrial Health, Apr. 2005, Vol.43, No.2, p.302-307. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: This case-control study examined the prevalence of chronic laryngitis in a group of 100 male glassblowers and a control group of 100 male workers engaged in other occupations in the same plant. Data were collected by means of self-administered questionnaires and during medical examinations. After adjustment for possible confounders, such as age, years of service, smoking habits and alcohol consumption, results show a significantly higher prevalence of chronic laryngitis among glassblowers than among controls. However, the duration of exposure was not statistically significant for chronic laryngitis. (104918)
CIS 06-328 Work-related accidents and occupational diseases in veterinarians and their staff. Nienhaus A., Skudlik C., Seidler A., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2005, Vol.78, No.3, p.230-238. 45 ref. (In English) Internet: Veterinarians and their staff in Germany file approximately 2000 accident and occupational disease claims each year. This article analyses the claims for the period from 1998 to 2002. The annual incidence rate for accidents in the workplace was 105.4 per 1,000 full-time workers, a rate 2.9-times higher than for general practitioners of human medicine. When only severe accidents resulting in a loss of work time of more than three days are included, the relative risk increases to 9.2. 66% of the reported accidents are due to scratches, bites or kicks from animals. Claims of occupational disease are filed 2.7-times more often by veterinarians and their staff than by general practitioners and their staff. The occupational diseases most often concern the skin (39%), followed by allergic respiratory diseases (30.5%), and infectious diseases (19.1%). (104860)
CIS 06-329 World at work: Aircraft cabin cleaning. Yeung S.S.M., Yu I.T.S., Hui K.Y.L., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.62, No.1, p.58-60. Illus. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: This article describes the occupational health aspects of aircraft cabin cleaning at Hong Kong airport, where the total number of workers employed by the three cleaning contractors is around 1200. This occupation involves specific hazards due in particular to poor ergonomics, the lack of space and tight working schedules. Topics addressed: job tasks; occupational hazards (noise, musculoskeletal disorders, cleaning agents, shift work); measures to protect workers (ergonomic tools, maintenance of equipment, medical supervision). (104870)
CIS 06-330 Ill health and early retirement among school principals in Bavaria. Weber A., Weltle D., Lederer P., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2005, Vol.78, No.4, p.325-331. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: All 408 school principals in the state of Bavaria who had applied for early retirement on health grounds between 1997 and 1999 were given questionnaires and subjected to medical examinations. 84% of the principals were assessed to be unfit for work. The main reasons for early retirement were psychiatric/psychosomatic disorders which made up 45% of the cases. The relative frequency was higher in women than in men. Depressive disorders and exhaustion syndrome (burnout) dominated among the psychiatric diagnoses (57%). The most frequent somatic illnesses were cardiovascular diseases in 19% of cases, followed by musculoskeletal diseases in 10% and malignant tumours in 9% of cases. The health of 66% of those judged unfit for work was assessed to be so severely impaired that no other employment could be expected of them. (104894)
CIS 06-331 Staffing and worker injury in nursing homes. Trinkoff A.M., Johantgen M., Muntaner C., Le R., American Journal of Public Health, July 2005, Vol.95, No.7, p.1220-1225. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the relationship between staffing levels and worker injury rates in 445 nursing homes in three states of the United States (Ohio, West Virginia, and Maryland) for the year 2000. Workers' compensation data were used to obtain nursing home staffing details and organizational descriptors. Data were subjected to regression analysis to examine the association between worker injury rate and nursing home staffing and organizational characteristics. It was found that total nursing hours per resident day were significantly associated with worker injury rates after adjustment for organizational characteristics. Therefore, policies and resources that increase staffing levels in nursing homes are warranted. (104916)
CIS 06-332 OSH in the Office. (Polish: Bhp w biurze) Zakrzewska-Szczepańska K., Służba Pracownicza, 2005, No.3, p.33-34. (In Polish) Internet: The rights and obligations of employees concerning occupational safety and health rules in the office are described. Enquiries from office employees to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Labour are listed with the replies and explanations of specialists from the Department for Working Conditions. (104938)
CIS 06-333 Film and television production: A risky business. Oughton N., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2005, Vol.21, No.1, p.23-31. Illus. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigated levels of compliance with occupational safety and health (OSH) legislation in the film and television industry in the Australian state of Queensland. A questionnaire was distributed to workers in production companies and to freelance operators. Findings based on 100 responses reveal that many practitioners lack an understanding of OSH practices, fail to implement OSH programs, rarely conduct risk assessments, only sporadically provide OSH information and training and demonstrate low OSH morale. It is suggested that partnerships between industry, unions and educational institutions may provide the best method for improving the poor OSH culture in the industry. (104951)
CIS 06-334 Forbidden work for adolescents - new regulations. (Polish: Prace wzbronione młodocianym - nowe przepisy) Leszczyński W., Służba Pracownicza, 2005, No.2, p.35-37. (In Polish) Internet: A new decree of the Council of Ministers of August 24, 2004 provides a list of the occupational activities which adolescents are forbidden to undertake and describes the conditions that have to be met when employing young people to perform dangerous work. The most important resolutions of the Council Directive 94/33/EC (CIS 94-1810)included in the regulations are pointed out and important changes to the previous regulations in force are listed. (104937)
CIS 06-335 Charcoal sketch. (Polish: Szkice węglem... drzewnym) Staszyński K., Inspektor Pracy, 2005, No.5, p.20-21. Illus. (In Polish) Internet: The results of inspections by the District Inspectorate of Labour in Rzeszów of wood thermolysis (charcoal burning) operations are presented. Hazards and negligence identified in recent years are discussed and the main causes of hazardous working conditions are identified. (104939)
CIS 06-336 Club zero, better intervention studies and a proposal for an Australian institute of occupational and environmental health. Pearse W., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2004, Vol.20, No.1, p.59-67. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: "Club Zero" was the name given to a two-year study of the effectiveness of management systems and networking as ways of preventing occupational accidents and diseases in a group of metal manufacturing companies in Australia. Findings of the study are outlined and some wider conclusions about the importance of intervention studies are discussed. It is proposed that the same model could be used to assist small to medium-sized enterprises to implement OHS management systems. More intervention research to evaluate the effectiveness of OHS solutions is needed, and the article argues for a substantially increased level of government funding for occupational safety and health research. Increased commitment should focus on establishing a new Australian institute of occupational and environmental health. (104804)
CIS 06-337 Increasing the adoption of OSH risk controls in small business: Can social marketing help to achieve change?. Cowley S., Else D., LaMontagne A., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2004, Vol.20, No.1, p.69-77. Illus. 62 ref. (In English) Internet: Studies suggest that health and safety problems are not widely recognized within small businesses and that risk controls tend to be adopted slowly. This article suggests that behaviour change and other intervention theories previously applied successfully in public health be adapted for use in OHS. Two models, social marketing and a transtheoretical model of health behaviour change, are discussed. The application of these two models respectively as intervention and evaluative tools is illustrated as a strategy to increase the adoption of controls for isocyanate paint exposure in motor vehicle body repair shops. (104805)
CIS 06-338 Age-related differences in work injuries: A multivariate, population-based study. Breslin F.C., Smith P., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 2005, Vol.48, No.1, p.50-56. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: Many population-based studies find that the rate of work injuries is higher among adolescent and young adult workers compared to older adults. This study examined age-related differences in work injuries in a representative sample of 56,510 working Canadians aged 15 years and over. Participants provided information on work-related injuries occurring in the previous 12 months and on their job characteristics. Total hours worked in the previous year were computed for each worker and accounted for in the logistic regressions. For men, adjusting for job characteristics substantially reduced, but did not eliminate the elevated risk status of adolescent and young adult workers. For women, only young adult women showed an elevated risk of work injury with job characteristics controlled. These findings suggest that differences in the types of jobs young workers hold play a critical role in their high-risk status. (104999)
CIS 06-339 How to protect the ageing work force. Roth C.L., Occupational Hazards, Jan. 2005, Vol.67, No.1, p.38-42. Illus. (In English) Internet: Physical and mental changes in older workers require employers to take steps to adapt the workplace and tasks before injuries occur. In this article, an ergonomics expert discusses these changes and their impact on the workplace. Contents: loss of strength and flexibility; exercises to assist postural steadiness; response to hot and cold; reduced visual capacity. (104773)
CIS 06-340 The OHS "double whammy": Adolescent workers who are precariously employed. Mayhew C., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 2005, Vol.21, No.2, p.131-140. 53 ref. (In English) Internet: This article examines the occupational safety and health (OSH) risks of adolescents with precarious employment contracts (casual, part-time, short-term, etc.). It is argued that there is an exponential increase in the probability of a negative OSH outcome when workers are both precariously employed and very young. Evidence is presented from three earlier studies among precariously employed workers where adolescents were placed at risk and prevention strategies at the international level and in Australia are outlined. (104954)
CIS 06-341 Measurement of management efforts with respect to integration of quality, safety and ergonomics issues in manufacturing industry. Dzissah J.S., Karwowski W., Rieger J., Stewart D., Human Factors and Ergonomics in Manufacturing, Spring 2005, Vol.15, No.2, p.213-232. Illus. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to identify critical factors that measure management efforts aimed at improving quality, safety, and ergonomics. Eleven identified management activity areas were identified from the literature as being the most important. Factors were then developed to measure the efficiency of these activities through a questionnaire addressed to manufacturing companies. 140 responses were collected (response rate 47%). The reliability coefficients indicated that some scales or management activity areas are more reliable in measuring potential for improvements in terms of quality, ergonomics, safety and efficiency. The proposed instrument for quantifying management efforts with respect to simultaneous improvements in the areas of quality, ergonomics and safety was found to be valid and reliable. (104959)
CIS 06-342 Youth: Pathways to decent work. Report VI Promoting youth employment - Tackling the challenge. (French: Emploi des jeunes: les voies d'accès à un travail décent. Rapport VI Emploi des jeunes: le défi à relever; Spanish: El empleo de los jóvenes: vías para acceder a un trabajo decente. Informe VI Promoción del empleo de los jóvenes: abordar el desafío) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. v, 98p. Bibl. ref., ISBN 92-2-115373-8 (en), ISBN 92-2-215373-1 (fr), ISBN 92-2-315373-5 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This report provides background information on youth employment issues for discussion at the 93rd session of the International Labour Conference, 2005. It discusses national-level initiatives aimed at promoting decent work for young people, illustrates the role of the ILO and identifies regulations concerning the occupational safety and health of young workers, highlighting relevant ILO Conventions and codes of practice. (104903)
CIS 06-343 Informal economy, undeclared work and labour administration. (French: Economie informelle, travail non déclaré et administration du travail; Spanish: Economía informal, trabajo no declarado y administración del trabajo) Daza J.L., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, June 2005. vi, 67p.13 ref., ISBN 92-2-117360-7 (en), ISBN 92-2-217360-0 (fr), ISBN 92-2-317360-4 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This working paper examines the concept of the informal economy and informal employment in both developed and developing countries and explains how some activities are not covered by labour laws. Proposes actions by labour administrations to facilitate the transition from the informal to the formal economy. Refers briefly to the role of labour inspection in securing the safety, health and welfare of workers and to the lack of occupational safety rules in many micro or small enterprises. (104908)
CIS 06-344 Safety and health in construction work, civil engineering and all other types of work concerning buildings. Decree of 8 January 1965 as amended. (French: Hygiène et sécurité dans les travaux du bâtiment, travaux publics et tous autres travaux concernant les immeubles. Décret du 8 janvier 1965 modifié) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 3rd ed., Jan. 2005. 166p. Illus. Price: EUR 10.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-85599-023-8 (In French) Internet: This booklet on safety and health in the construction sector consists of two parts: the first part reproduces the decree of 8 January 1965, as amended, which sets out safety and health measures to be taken during construction work; the second part includes extracts from the labour code applicable to all enterprises and which concern the installation and use of work equipment (lifting devices and accessories, scaffolding, ladders, etc.) and personal protective equipment. (104846)
CIS 06-345 Construction site logistics and safety coordination. (French: Logistique de chantier et coordination de sécurité) Moineau J.P., Voisin J.C., Magniez G., Tourtier M., Dubois J.C., Armanet M., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Nov. 2002. 40p. Illus. 26 ref. Price: EUR 6.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1104-8 (In French) Internet: This document aims to raise the awareness of all those involved in construction of the need to optimise the supply of construction site equipment and materials. It shows how correct procedures result in higher productivity, a reduction in the risk of accidents, a better quality of finished work, and hence an improved image of the building and civil engineering sector. The principles described primarily concern organization and focus on benefits to craftsmen and small enterprises. (104848)
CIS 06-346 Safety manual - Construction, conservation and refurbishment of buildings. (Portuguese: Manual de segurança - Construção, conservação e restauro de edifícios) Pinto A., Edições Sílabo Lda, R. Cidade de Manchester 2, 1170-100 Lisboa, Portugal, 2004. 505p. Illus. 85 ref., ISBN 972-618-340-5 (In Portuguese) Internet: This manual, aimed at persons responsible for safety in the building sector, deals with the prevention of occupational hazards and diseases in the construction, conservation, renovation and repair of buildings. Topics covered: collective protection equipment; personal protective equipment; safety signalling; hazard evaluation and prevention; data sheets on safety procedures; audits. In appendices: applicable legislation and standards; useful Internet links; contact addresses of the general labour inspection agency. (104984)
CIS 06-347 Manual - No barriers to information technologies at the workplace. (Portuguese: Manual - Technologias de informação sem barreiras no local de trabalho) Godhinho F., Santos C., Coutinho A.F., Trigueiros P., Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Duro (UTAD), Portugal, 2nd ed., Aug. 2004. 188p. Illus. 24 ref. + CD-ROM., ISBN 972-669-608-9 (In Portuguese) Internet: This document provides information on the availability of software that can facilitate the computer-related work of handicapped persons. It describes the display options that can be selected for the control panel of the operating system (increasing the size of the display, controlling the mouse using the keyboard, integrating the keyboard on a touch screen, etc.) as well as various auxiliary tools for improving work posture or equipment access. It includes lists of relevant legislation and websites providing useful information. A CD-ROM version of the manual is included. (104986)
CIS 06-348 Asbestos release during removal of resilient floor covering materials by recommended work practices of the Resilient Floor Covering Institute. Williams M.G., Crossman R.N., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, June 2003, Vol.18, No.6, p.466-478. Illus. 48 ref. (In English) Internet: This study assesses the asbestos levels observed during removal of resilient floor covering products using the "Recommended Work Practices" (1995) of the Resilient Floor Covering Institute. Other methods requiring containment were used as controls. The 1995 work practices require wet removal or dry heat removal but do not require the use of respirators. Air samples were taken during wet removal of asbestos-containing floor tiles. Settled dust samples were collected at the sites of tile removal and pieces of each type of tile were broken in a mini-enclosure to evaluate asbestos emissions. Results indicate that workers without respirators are likely to have unknown exposure levels. A high percentage of these fibers are easily inhaled. These findings may cause regulators to consider requiring respiratory protection, cleanup procedures, and methods to control asbestos migration. (104778)
CIS 06-349 Time variant exposure analysis (TVEA): A measurement tool for characterizing particulate exposure determinants in construction. Kalil A.J., Woskie S.R., Holcroft C., Ellenbecker M., Buchholz B., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Déc. 2004, Vol.1, No.12, p.816-825. Illus. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: A work sampling approach entitled "time variant exposure analysis" (TVEA) was developed for the assessment of determinants for particulate air contaminants in construction environments. It involved the recording of observations at fixed intervals to systematically survey over 30 potential determinants of exposure to three types of particulate matter: quartz-containing dusts, diesel exhaust, and a general grouping of "other particles" that included welding fume and wood dust. Two field studies were conducted to determine inter-rater and observation interval reliability. Substantial inter-rater agreement was obtained for most variables. Regression statistics indicated that while 30 min is an acceptable interval for exposure assessment, 15 min provides a more precise assessment of potential exposure determinants. (104796)
CIS 06-350 Effects of concurrent noise and jet fuel exposure on hearing loss. Kaufman L.R., LeMasters G.K., Olsen D.M., Succop P., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2005, Vol.47, No.3, p.212-218. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the effects of occupational exposure to jet fuel on hearing among ground workers at a U.S air force base. Noise-exposed subjects, with or without jet fuel exposure, underwent hearing tests. Data on work histories, recreational exposures, protective equipment, medical histories, alcohol, smoking, and demographics were collected by questionnaire. Jet fuel, solvent and noise exposure data were collected from occupational hygiene records. Fuel concentrations were less than 34% of the OSHA threshold limit values. Subjects with three years of jet fuel exposure had a 70% increase in adjusted odds of hearing loss (OR=1.7) and the odds increased to 2.41 for 12 years of noise and fuel exposure. These findings suggest that jet fuel has a toxic effect on the auditory system. (104966)
CIS 06-351 Lower limits coming for hexavalent chromium. Dobos R.T., Occupational Hazards, Jan. 2005, Vol.67, No.1, p.44-45. Illus. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established an 8-hour time-weighted average exposure limit of 1.0µg/m3 in its proposed rule for hexavalent chromium, which is significantly lower than current levels applied in the manufacturing and construction industries. This article discusses the proposed changes and the implications of the rule for employers with respect to training, information, limitation of exposure, monitoring and medical supervision. (104774)
CIS 06-352 Material safety data sheets: Their use in Québec workers' compensation appeals involving neurotoxic chemical exposures. Tharr D., Baldwin M., Lippel K., Lefèbvre M.C., Mergler D., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, June 2003, Vol.18, No.6, p.405-412. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examines how material safety data sheets (MSDSs) have been used by courts in Québec for the compensation of workers exposed to neurotoxic substances. It discusses the legal basis for MSDSs and analyses the outcomes of appeals of 26 cases. It is concluded that the MSDS constitutes an important source of information for workers' compensation following exposures to neurotoxic chemicals, contributing key evidence in one third of the cases. (104775)
CIS 06-353 Workplace airborne hexavalent chromium concentrations for Painesville, Ohio, chromate production plant (1943-1971). Proctor D.M., Panko J.P., Liebig E.W., Scott P.K., Mundt K.A., Buczynski M.A., Barnhart R.J., Harris M.A., Morgan R.J., Paustenbach D.J., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, June 2003, Vol.18, No.6, p.430-449. Illus. 49 ref. (In English) Internet: Data from a 1930s cohort of workers from a single chromate production plant has been used as the basis for assessing the carcinogenic potency of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). However, the exposure information for this cohort has several shortcomings. In an effort to provide better exposure information, this study takes into account recently identified historical exposure data for the workers of this plant. More than 800 measurements of airborne Cr(VI) from 23 surveys conducted from 1943 to 1971 are presented. Concentrations generally decreased in the plant over time. The average airborne concentration of Cr(VI) in the indoor operating areas of the plant in the 1940s was 0.72mg/m3, that from 1957 through 1964 was 0.27 mg/m3, and that from 1965 through 1972 was 0.039 mg/m3. These data are of sufficient quality to allow for exposure reconstruction for workers employed at this plant from 1940 to 1972 and to provide the basis for an improved cancer risk assessment. (104776)
CIS 06-354 Video exposure assessments demonstrate excessive laboratory formaldehyde exposures. Ryan T.J., Burroughs G.E., Taylor K., Kovein R.J., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, June 2003, Vol.18, No.6, p.450-457. Illus. 29 ref. (In English) Internet: Following frequent complaints about room air quality in an anatomy laboratory using formaldehyde-preserved animals, formaldehyde concentrations were measured using a photo-ionization detector with an integral data logger and videotapes of laboratory tasks were recorded simultaneously. Use of this video monitoring method revealed very short-lived, excessively high peak exposure events, whereas conventional time-weighted averages indicated that the majority of personal exposures were below the OSHA limit of 0.75ppm. Transient peak formaldehyde concentrations could be responsible for the self-reported health effects (burning nose and eyes and eye irritation). Close dissection work, opening peritoneal cavities, and specimen selection activities were most likely the causes of elevated student exposures. Teaching assistants' exposures were the highest, exceeding OSHA limits on several occasions. (104777)
CIS 06-355 Laboratory and field evaluation of a SAW microsensor array for measuring perchloroethylene in breath. Groves W.A., Achutan C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2004, Vol.1, No.12, p.779-788. Illus. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: This article describes the laboratory and field performance evaluation of a small portable instrument for the rapid analysis of perchloroethylene in breath based on surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors. Results of the laboratory evaluation indicated excellent agreement between the SAW array, a portable gas chromatograph (GC) and a reference analytical method. Field performance was evaluated at a commercial dry-cleaning operation by comparing prototype instrument results for breath samples with those of the GC. Linear regression analysis showed excellent agreement between prototype instrument and portable GC breath sample results. Results demonstrate the field capabilities of SAW microsensor arrays for rapid analysis of organic vapours in breath. (104794)
CIS 06-356 Airborne concentrations of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) in North American wood mills during the manufacturing of oriented strand board (OSB). Karoly W.J., Flatley J.J., Stevenson R.D., Bowers J.D., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2004, Vol.1, No.12, p.789-798. Illus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: Air samples were taken to determine the effectiveness of control measures used in oriented strand board (OSB) mills to prevent fugitive emissions of wood dust, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and MDI-coated wood dust. Personal sampling results (578 samples covering 11 job categories) ranged from 0.0002 to 0.524mg/m3, and area sampling results (1657 samples covering 14 stationary locutions in the mills) ranged from 0.0002 to 2.5mg/m3. Over 97% of the personal and 92% of the area sampling results were below 0.051mg/m3. Wipe testing was performed to determine the presence of unreacted diisocyanates from various surfaces. Positive results were found in about 13% of the wipe tests on surfaces in process areas. (104795)
CIS 06-357 Non-sensitizing air pollution at workplaces and adult onset asthma. Flodin U., Jönsson P., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan. 2004, Vol.77, No.1, p.17-22. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to investigate whether occupational exposure to non-sensitizing air pollution at workplaces increases the risk of adult onset asthma. 120 persons with asthma diagnosed by general practitioners were compared with 446 referents matched for age and gender and living in the same community as the cases. Information on occupation, exposure to specific allergens, smoking habits, dwellings and atopy was obtained from a postal questionnaire. It was found that three years or more of work in air-polluted workplaces resulted in an increased odds ratio of 1.7 for asthma. Working in buildings affected by dampness and mould brought a fourfold risk. It is concluded that occupational exposure to unspecific air pollution at workplaces is associated with an increased risk of adult-onset asthma. (104797)
CIS 06-358 Reduced exposure to organic solvents by use of water-based paint systems in car repair shops. Bråtveit M., Hollund B.E., Moen B.E., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan. 2004, Vol.77, No.1, p.31-38. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to determine exposure to organic solvents for spray painters in car repair shops. Air sampling and personal sampling was carried out in eight car repair shops and blood samples were analysed for organic solvents at the beginning and end of the shift. The exposure levels of the organic solvents were well below the Norwegian limit values. Toluene was detected at the highest concentration in air samples when solvent-based paint systems were used (0.8ppm), whereas xylene was found at the highest level when water-based systems were used (0.25ppm). When solvent-based paint systems were used, the additive factor for organic solvent exposure based on Norwegian limit values was three-times higher than when water-based systems were employed. However, at the levels of organic solvents observed, the risk of acute and chronic health effects caused by organic solvents is low. (104798)
CIS 06-359 The effects of two kinds of masks (with or without exhaust valve) on clothing microclimates inside the mask in participants wearing protective clothing for spraying pesticides. Hayashi C., Tokura H., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan. 2004, Vol.77, No.1, p.73-78. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the effects of wearing two types of protective mask on the microclimate (temperature, humidity) inside the mask, physiological parameters and subjective sensations. Five healthy female students performed an intermittent step exercise while wearing the mask in a climate chamber at 28°C and 60% relative humidity. One mask was made of non-woven fabric and had no exhaust valve (mask A), and the other had an exhaust valve (mask B). Microclimate temperature, microclimate humidity and cheek skin temperature inside the mask were significantly lower in mask B than in mask A. Body temperature also increased more slowly with mask B. Mechanisms of heat loss are discussed. (104800)
CIS 06-360 Estimating personal exposures based on mass balance material usage rates: Validation of a ventilation model in a spray paint booth. Taylor J.R., O'Shaughnessy P.T., Reynolds S.J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr. 2004, Vol.1, No.4, p.213-221. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: This research examined the validity of a model for estimating airborne contaminant concentrations based on the mass rate of change of compounds used during an industrial process. A study of an industrial spray painting operation involved estimation of the effective ventilation rate, sampling for organic compounds and simultaneously measuring the mass usage of these compounds during painting. The results indicated that the model does appear to be a useful additional tool for estimating worker exposures. However, the characteristics of specific ventilation systems must be understood before modelling is conducted. (104807)
CIS 06-361 Sensory and associated reactions to mineral dusts: Sodium borate, calcium oxide and calcium sulfate. Cain W.S., Jalowayski A.A., Kleinman M., Lee N.S., Lee B.R., Ahn B.H., Magruder K., Schmidt R., Hillen B.K., Warren C.B., Culver B.D., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr. 2004, Vol.1, No.4, p.222-236. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to investigate the use of chemosensory feel (chemesthesis) in setting occupational exposure limits (OELs) for irritant mineral dusts. Twelve male subjects exercised against a light load while they breathed air fed with controlled levels of dusts of calcium oxide (1 to 5mg/m3), sodium borate (5 to 40mg/m3), and calcium sulfate (10 to 40mg/m3) for 20 minutes. Potency parameters were measured (nasal resistance, nasal secretion, minute ventilation, heart rate, blood oxygenation, etc.) and subjects registered the level of feel or irritation. Calcium oxide had the greatest potency, followed by sodium borate and lastly calcium sulfate. Of the physiological parameters, the amount of secretion showed the best association with chemesthetic (feel) potency. The relevance of the findings to the setting of OELs is discussed. (104808)
CIS 06-362 Exposures to carcinogens. (French: Les expositions aux produits cancérogènes) Premières Informations et Premières Synthèses, July 2005, No.28.1, 10p. Illus. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: This article summarizes the results of the Sumer 2003 survey of exposure to carcinogenic substances in France. The survey identified 28 carcinogens. Over two million workers were exposed to these substances, primarily male blue-collar workers who were four times more exposed than women. Among women, a large number of exposed workers were employed in health care and in the cleaning and domestic services sectors. During the last ten years, exposures to carcinogens rose slightly, but collective protection measures improved; however, they still remain unavailable to one third of the exposed workers. Eight substances were identified as the most common carcinogens responsible for over two-thirds of exposures. (104842)
CIS 06-363 Gases and organic solvents in urine as biomarkers of occupational exposure: A review. Imbriani M., Ghittori S., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2005, Vol.78, No.1, p.1-19. 106 ref. (In English) Internet: In the last 20 years, many scientific articles have shown that the urinary concentrations of unchanged solvents are correlated with environmental exposure and could be used for biological monitoring. Although this approach is not yet widespread in occupational exposure assessment, a number of important discoveries have been made recently. In this article, the basic concepts and methodology of urine analysis are briefly presented with a critical review of the literature on this matter. The excretion mechanisms of organic solvents in urine are discussed, with regard to biological variability, and the future directions of research are described. (104851)
CIS 06-364 Lead in finger bone, whole blood, plasma and urine in lead-smelter workers: Extended exposure range. Schütz A, Olsson M., Jensen A., Gerhardsson L., Börjesson J., Mattsson S., Skerfving S., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2005, Vol.78, No.1, p.35-43. Illus. 28 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to assess historical exposure to lead and to study the relationships between lead concentrations in whole blood (B-Pb), plasma (P-Pb), urine (U-Pb), finger bone (Bone-Pb) and duration of employment in workers at a secondary lead smelter and to compare the findings with those of studies of populations with a wide range of lead exposure. The study population included 39 workers at a German secondary lead smelter. The results were compared with data from previous studies of Swedish, Russian and Ecuadorian lead-exposed subjects. The high Bone-Pb values recorded for the German workers implied a historical lead exposure of considerable magnitude. The long-term high lead exposure also showed up in the B-Pb levels for both active and retired workers, leading to the implementation of safety measures in order to comply with biological threshold limits. (104852)
CIS 06-365 Dermal absorption of chlorpyrifos in human volunteers. Meuling W.J.A., Ravensberg L.C., Roza L., van Hemmen J.J., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2005, Vol.78, No.1, p.44-50. Illus. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: Doses of either 5mg or 15mg chlorpyrifos (CPF) diluted in ethanol were applied to the skin of healthy male volunteers. Duration of dermal exposure was 4h, after which the non-absorbed fraction was washed off. Urine samples of CPF and its metabolite 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP) were collected at pre-determined intervals up to 120h after application. A relatively large fraction of CPF (42%-67% of the applied dose) was washed off. There was no significant difference in total urinary excretion of TCP after 120h for the 5mg and 15mg CPF exposures, showing that an increase in the dermal dose does not increase absorption. Furthermore, it was observed that the clearance of CPF by the body was not completed within 120 h, suggesting that CPF or TCP was retained by the skin and/or accumulated in the body. Daily occupational exposure to CPF may therefore result in adverse effects. (104853)
CIS 06-366 Comparison of atomic absorption and fluorescence spectroscopic methods for the routine determination of urinary arsenic. Heilier J.F., Buchet J.P., Haufroid V., Lison D., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2005, Vol.78, No.1, p.51-59. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to develop a rapid and robust technique for the measurement of urinary inorganic arsenic. It involves the measurement of arsenic in urine after hydride generation in acid medium and uses atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS) as the detection system. The AFS procedure was found to be more precise and sensitive than the atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) technique using a quartz cell. A variation of the procedure that allows the detection of non-directly reducible arsenic forms was also validated for samples with high arsenic concentrations. (104854)
CIS 06-367 Cytogenic tests performed on operating room personnel (the use of anaesthetic gases). Bilban M., Bilban Jakopin C., Ogrinc D., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2005, Vol.78, No.1, p.60-64. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: The cytogenic effects of chronic exposure to small doses of anaesthetic gases was studied in a group of workers handling these gases in operating theatres. Results were compared with those from radiologists exposed to ionizing radiation and from a group of Slovene citizens who were never exposed to genotoxic agents. Tests included structural chromosomal aberrations (SCA), sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) and the micronucleus assay (MN). The average frequency of SCAs in the study group was significantly higher than in the group of radiologists and Slovene citizens. The frequency of SCE and MN was also significant. These findings confirm those of previous studies, indicating that exposure to anaesthetic gases induces changes in human chromosomes. (104855)
CIS 06-368 IgG4 response to fur animal allergens among fur workers. Uitti J., Nordman H., Halmepuro L., Savolainen J., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2005, Vol.78, No.1, p.71-74. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to determine whether IgG4 antibodies to allergens in urine extracts from fur animals were associated with positive prick tests to the same allergens and with the occurrence of respiratory symptoms among fur workers. IgG4 antibodies to mink and silver fox urine were analysed in fur farmers and three referent groups from the plastics industry. The fur workers had higher IgG4 values than other groups and also had urinary IgG4 antibodies more frequently than the other groups. Among the exposed subjects, IgG4 antibodies correlated with positive skin prick tests to the same allergens and were associated with symptoms among the exposed workers. Results indicate that IgG4 antibodies are a good indicator of exposure to these allergens in fur workers. (104856)
CIS 06-369 Risk of contact allergy and dermatitis at a wind turbine plant using epoxy resin-based plastics. Rasmussen K., Carstensen O., Pontén A., Gruvberger B., Isaksson M., Bruze M., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2005, Vol.78, No.3, p.211-217. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: A cross-sectional study was carried out among workers exposed to epoxy resin and other chemicals at a company producing plastic components. Risk factors for occupational contact allergy and dermatitis were investigated. Participants responded to a self-administered questionnaire, were interviewed by an occupational physician and were subjected to dermatological examinations including patch testing. Clinically-diagnosed dermatitis was found among 214 workers (35.8%) and contact allergy to materials used in the workplace was found in 66 workers (10.9% of the total population and 20.3% of those who underwent patch testing), among whom 40 (60.6%) were allergic to epoxy compounds, 25 (37.9%) to hardeners and ten (15.2%) to other workplace materials. Older age and longer duration of employment were individual risk factors for allergy to workplace materials, while work-related allergies and longer duration of employment at the workplace were significant risk factors for dermatitis. (104859)
CIS 06-370 Pesticides and electronic resources for health care providers. Sudakin D.L., Journal of Agromedicine, 2005, Vol.10, No.1, p.45-51. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: Agricultural workers are at high risk of occupational injuries, including pesticide exposures. There is general agreement that the training of health care providers to recognize and manage such exposures is limited and in need of improvement. This article presents a case report of suspected pesticide exposure among symptomatic agricultural workers followed by a discussion of Internet-based resources for the recognition, management and prevention of pesticide-related illness. (104862)
CIS 06-371 Exposure to traffic exhausts and oxidative DNA damage. Lai C.H., Liou S.H., Lin H.C., Shih T.S., Tsai P.J., Chen J.S., Yang T., Jaakkola J.J.K., Strickland P.T., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2005, Vol.62, No.4, p.216-222. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: To assess the association between exposure to traffic exhausts and indicators of oxidative DNA damage, a case-control study was undertaken involving 47 female highway toll station workers and 27 female office workers as a reference group. Exposure assessment was based on average and cumulative traffic density and a biomarker of exposure, urinary 1-hydroxypyrene-glucuronide (1-OHPG). Urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was used as a biomarker of oxidative DNA damage. Plasma nitric oxide (NO) was measured as an indicator of oxidative stress related to traffic exhaust exposure. The mean concentration of urinary 8-OHdG was substantially higher among the exposed nonsmokers compared with the reference non-smokers. The mean concentration of NO among the exposed was also higher compared with the reference non-smokers. In linear regression adjusting for confounding, 8-OHdG was statistically significantly related to 1-OHPG. Results indicate that exposure to traffic exhausts increases oxidative DNA damage. Urinary 8-OHdG is a promising biomarker of traffic exhaust induced oxidative stress. (104863)
CIS 06-372 Relationship between chemical structure and the occupational asthma hazard of low molecular weight organic compounds. Jarvis J., Seed M.J., Elton R.A., Sawyer L., Agius R.M., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2005, Vol.62, No.4, p.243-250. Illus. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this literature survey was to investigate relationships between chemical structure and reported occupational asthma for low molecular weight organic compounds. Nitrogen- or oxygen-containing functional groups such as isocyanates, amines, acid anhydrides and carbonyls were associated with occupational asthma, particularly when the functional group was present twice or more in the same molecule. Results suggest that chemical cross-linking is an important molecular mechanism leading to the development of occupational asthma. (104864)
CIS 06-373 Biomonitoring of a worker population exposed to platinum dust in a catalyst production plant. Petrucci F., Violante N., Senofonte O., Cristaudo A., Di Gregorio M., Forte G., Alimonti A., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.62, No.1, p.27-33. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to evaluate occupational exposure to platinum in an industrial plant engaged in the production, recovery, and recycling of catalytic converters. Platinum was determined in airborne particulate matter, and in the blood, urine and hair of 106 exposed workers, 21 controls from the plant's administrative offices and 25 unexposed subjects. The highest level of platinum in air was found in one of the production areas. The biological data confirmed this trend, with mean concentrations in this site being higher than in other working areas. The workers employed in the administrative sector had levels of contaminant lower than those of other workers, albeit 2-20 times higher than those of external controls. The background level of platinum in all areas of the factory implies widespread exposure for the workers. The most reliable biomarker was the level of platinum in urine. (104868)
CIS 06-374 Mortality in New Zealand workers exposed to phenoxy herbicides and dioxins. 't Mannetje A., McLean D., Cheng S., Boffetta P., Colin D., Pearce N., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.62, No.1, p.34-40. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to evaluate mortality among New Zealand phenoxy herbicide producers and sprayers exposed to dioxins. Producers and sprayers were followed up from 1969 and 1973 respectively to 2000. A total of 813 producers and 699 sprayers were classified as exposed to dioxin and phenoxy herbicides. Standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were calculated using national mortality rates. At the end of follow up, 164 producers and 91 sprayers had died. Results showed a 24% non-significant excess cancer mortality among phenoxy herbicide producers, with a significant excess for multiple myeloma. Associations were stronger for those exposed to multiple agents including dioxin during production. However, overall cancer mortality was not increased for producers and sprayers mainly handling final technical products, although they were likely to have been exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) levels far higher than those currently in the general New Zealand population. (104869)
CIS 06-375 Enzymes as occupational and environmental respiratory sensitisers. Baur X., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2005, Vol.78, No.4, p.279-286. Illus. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: Airborne enzymes occurring in the general environment and in purified form in industrial production have a high allergenic potential to the airways and mucous membranes, causing rhinitis, conjunctivitis and asthma. It can be assumed that this also applies to the increasing number of enzymes manufactured by the cloning of genetically engineered microorganisms. Cross-sectional studies demonstrate exposure-response relations for IgE-mediated sensitization and airway disorders. Atopic individuals are more susceptible to enzyme allergy than non-atopic individuals. Skin prick testing and measurement of specific IgE antibodies have been shown to be useful diagnostic tools. Very high concentrations of proteases may lead to emphysema. There is also evidence of non-allergic airway inflammation by proteases. It is recommended that all enzymes be classified with the risk phrase R42 (may cause sensitization by inhalation) and that their inhalation uptake be totally avoided. (104892)
CIS 06-376 Neuro-reproductive toxicities of 1-bromopropane and 2-bromopropane. Ichihara G., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Mar. 2005, Vol.78, No.2, p.79-96. 94 ref. (In English) Internet: 2-Bromopropane (2-BP), used as an alternative to chlorofluorocarbons in a Korean electronics factory, caused reproductive and haematopoietic disorders in male and female workers. After identification of 2-BP toxicity, 1-bromopropane (1-BP) was introduced as an alternative. 1-BP was considered less mutagenic than 2-BP, but subsequent animal experiments revealed 1-BP to be a potent neurotoxic substance. It was also revealed that 1-BP has reproductive toxicity, but with target cells that are different from those of 2-BP. After the first animal study describing the neurotoxicity of 1-BP, human cases were reported showing decreased vibration perception, paraesthesia in the lower extremities, decreased sensation in the thighs, ventral and gluteal regions, stumbling and headache, as well as mucosal irritation. More work is necessary on the dose-response of bromopropanes in humans and on the mechanisms underlying the differences in toxic effects between the two bromopropanes. (104896)
CIS 06-377 REACHing the workplace: trade unions call for a more ambitious European policy on chemicals. (French: REACH au travail: Les syndicats réclament une politique européenne plus ambitieuse pour les produits chimiques) HESA Newsletter, Oct. 2005, No. 28, p.1-47 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English, French) Internet: This special issue reports on the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) conference on the REACH (Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals) proposal for the overhaul of European chemicals legislation, held in Brussels, Belgium, 11-12 March 2005. Topics covered include the potential economic impacts of REACH, likely benefits for workers' safety and health and a summary of a study on the impact of REACH on future skin and respiratory diseases (see CIS 05-316). ETUC proposals for improving REACH are set out. (104909)
CIS 06-378 Contact vitiligo following a strong patch test reaction to triglycidyl-p-aminophenol in an aircraft industry worker: Case report and review of the literature. Jappe U., Geier J., Hausen B.M., Contact Dermatitis, Aug. 2005, Vol.53, No.2, p.89-92. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: Epoxy resin systems are a frequent cause of occupational allergic contact dermatitis. A 50-year-old patient developed eczematous skin lesions on the back of his hands, lower arms and eye lids, two months after starting work in aircraft construction. Patch tests showed positive reactions to nickel sulfate and to epoxy resins based on the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol F and on 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether. Triglycidyl-p-aminophenol (TGPAP) applied at 1% and 0.1% induced the strongest positive reaction. Four months later, the patient presented with two circular depigmented spots in the former TGPAP-patch test areas. Dermatohistopathology confirmed the diagnosis of contact vitiligo. (104911)
CIS 06-379 Occupational contact allergy to glyoxal. Aalto-Korte K., Mäkela E.A., Huttunen M., Suuronen K., Jolanki R., Contact Dermatitis, May 2005, Vol.52, No.5, p.276-281. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Allergic contact dermatitis from glyoxal has been described in several occupations. In this study, data from patients in the dermatology department of the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health from 1998 to 2004 were analysed for allergic reactions to glyoxal. Twenty patients had allergic reactions to glyoxal on patch testing. Five of the patients worked in dentistry and four of these had present exposure to glyoxal. Nine patients were machinists without obvious exposure to glyoxal. The case of a grinder with work-related facial dermatitis is described in detail. The chemical analysis of air samples from his workplace revealed 9.4-21µg/m3 glyoxal. Glyoxal was found to be present in the metalworking fluid used. The remaining six patients worked in miscellaneous occupations and had no present exposure to glyoxal. It is recommended that glyoxal be added to the antimicrobial patch test series. (104913)
CIS 06-380 An epidemic of occupational contact dermatitis from an acrylic glue. Kiec-Swierczynska M., Krecisz B., Swierczyska-Machura D., Zaremba J., Contact Dermatitis, Mar. 2005, Vol.52, No.3, p.121-125. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: Dermatological examinations were performed in 81 workers involved in the manufacture of electric coils for television displays. They had worked for four years in contact with a UV-curing glue containing various acrylates. Acrylate-specific dermal lesions were detected in 21 of these workers. Occupational irritant contact dermatitis was diagnosed in 12 of the workers and occupational allergic contact dermatitis in the other nine. Twelve reacted to acrylates. Cross-reactions with methacrylates were not observed. The highest number of positive tests was obtained with triethyleneglycol diacrylate (10) and diethyleneglycol diacrylate (9). (104914)
CIS 06-381 Prognosis of contact dermatitis in epoxy resin workers. Cahill J., Keegel T., Dharmage S., Nugriaty D., Nixon R., Contact Dermatitis, Mar. 2005, Vol.52, No.3, p.147-153. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: Among workers who attended an occupational dermatology clinic between 1993 and 2003, 40 were diagnosed with allergic contact dermatitis from epoxy resins. Twenty of these patients were followed up for at least two years post-diagnosis to establish prognosis. Patients completed a telephone questionnaire based on variables considered of importance for prognosis. All patients reported improvement in their skin condition since diagnosis. Twelve of the 20 patients had applied for workers' compensation and all claims were successful. Sixteen had ceased working with epoxy resins. Of these, nine reported complete healing and seven reported ongoing dermatitis. Factors that may be associated with a poor prognosis are age, atopy, duration of symptoms and severity at diagnosis. The prognosis of allergic contact dermatitis from epoxy resins is not always favourable, even if a worker ceases exposure. (104915)
CIS 06-382 Some engineering countermeasures to reduce exposure to welding fumes and gases avoiding occurrence of blow holes in welded material. Iwasaki T., Fujishiro Y., Kubota Y., Ojima J., Shibata N., Industrial Health, Apr. 2005, Vol.43, No.2, p.351-357. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: Open-type push-pull ventilation systems are increasingly being adopted as effective substitutes for conventional local exhaust ventilation systems at many welding workshops in Japan. In this study, laboratory experiments were carried out to evaluate the compliance of these systems with Japanese regulations and to establish design requirements and flow rate limitations necessary for avoiding welding defects. (104919)
CIS 06-383 Laboratory and field validation of the GC-NPD method for the measurement of formaldehyde in the workplace. Jeong J.Y., Paik N.W., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr. 2005, Vol.2, No.4, p.244-250. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to develop a new analytical method for measuring airborne formaldehyde concentrations in workplaces and to evaluate the performance of the method through laboratory and field tests. The method involves adsorption on a sampling tube containing a coated silica gel, followed by gas chromatography on a chromatograph equipped with a nitrogen-phosphorus detector (GC-NPD). In laboratory tests, the GC-NPD method was as sensitive as the NIOSH analytical method, which uses high-performance liquid chromatography equipped with ultraviolet detector. The analytical precision and 95% confidence limit of the estimated error for the GC-NPD method satisfied the OSHA sampling and analytical criteria. In field tests, the overall uncertainty of the GC-NPD method satisfied the NIOSH criteria for sampling and analytical methods. (104944)
CIS 06-384 Exposures to atmospheric effects in the entertainment industry. Teschke K., Chow Y., van Netten C., Varughese S., Kennedy S.M., Brauer M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, May 2005, Vol.2, No.5, p.277-284. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: Theatrical fogs are commonly used in the entertainment industry to create special atmospheric effects during filming and live productions. This study examined exposures to mineral oil and glycol-based theatrical fogs to determine what fluids were commonly used, to measure the size distributions of the aerosols and to identify factors associated with personal exposure levels to these substances. Airborne concentrations of inhalable aerosol, aldehydes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were measured in a range of production types (television, film, live theatre and concerts), and observations about the sites and tasks performed were collected. Findings are discussed. It is important to consider these exposures in light of any health effects observed, since existing occupational exposure limits were developed in other industries where the aerosol composition differs from that of theatrical fogs. (104946)
CIS 06-385 Exposure to volatile methacrylates in dental personnel. Hagberg S., Ljungkvist G., Andreasson H., Karlsson S., Barregård L., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, June 2005, Vol.2, No.6, p.302-306. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: Exposures to 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (2-HMMA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA) were determined in five randomly-selected public dental clinics and at a university odontology faculty in Sweden, where whole-day and task-specific short-term measurements were performed. The median 8-h time-weighted averages were 2.5µ/m3 (dentists) and 2.9µ/m3 (dental nurses) for 2-HMMA and 0.8µ/m3 (dentists) and 0.3µ/m3 (dental nurses) for MMA. The maximum short-term exposure levels were 79µ/m3 and 151µ/m3 for 2-HMMA and MMA respectively for both dentists and dental nurses. These observed levels are much lower than for complete denture fabrication. Irritant effects would not be expected in healthy persons at these levels. Nevertheless, occupational respiratory diseases may occur, and improvements in the handling of these chemicals in dentistry are warranted. (104948)
CIS 06-386 Method for the determination of perfluorooctanoic acid in air samples using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Kaiser M.A., Larsen B.S., Dawson B.J., Kurtz K., Lieckfield R., Miller J.R., Flaherty J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, June 2005, Vol.2, No.6, p.307-313. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Perfluorooctanoic acid is used as a processing aid in the production of many fluoropolymers. This study reports on the development and validation of a method for the determination of perfluorooctanoic acid in air samples. This method uses the OSHA Versatile Sampler (OVS) with a nominal 0.3µm filter and polystyrene resin sorbent followed by determination by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. The method was validated in the range of 0.474 to 47.4 µg/m3. Findings concerning breakthrough times, storage stability and retention efficiency are discussed. (104949)
CIS 06-387 Evaluation of a modified scavenging system to reduce occupational exposure to nitrous oxide in labor and delivery rooms. Chessor E., Verhoeven M., Hon C.Y., Teschke K., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, June 2005, Vol.2, No.6, p.314-322. Illus. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: A new scavenging mask was developed for the administration of nitrous oxide to mothers-to-be during labour in order to minimize leakage of the patient's exhaled breath into the room and staff exposure. The scavenging system was designed with an inner mask for gas delivery, an outer mask to capture exhaled breath and a continuous exhaust airflow based on breathing flow rates. It was tested by measuring exposures of 30 nurses and 33 room air concentrations, while patients self-administered nitrous oxide either through the conventional or modified scavenging system. The new scavenging system significantly reduced exposures in the room and to nurses (concentrations of 39.7ppm and 40.2ppm, respectively, compared with 82.2ppm and 69.3ppm, respectively, for the conventional system). Additional modifications to the scavenging system may further reduce nitrous oxide concentrations and improve comfort and usability. (104950)
CIS 06-388 Effects of occupational trichoroethylene exposure on cytokine levels in workers. Iavicoli I., Marinaccio A., Carelli G., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.453-457. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigates trichloroethylene-induced alterations of the immune system in humans. The levels of interleukin-2, interleukin-4, and interferon-γ in sera obtained from workers exposed to trichloroethylene were determined and compared with those of internal and external control subjects. In workers with a mean urinary trichloroacetic acid concentration of 13.3±5.9mg/g creatinine and exposed to a mean environmental trichloroethylene level of 35±14mg/m3, a significant increase in sera interleukin-2 and interferon-γ levels was observed. There was also a reduction in interleukin-4 concentrations compared with workers from the control groups. This study strongly suggests that exposure to low levels of trichloroethylene results in immune changes, with possible effects on health. (104961)
CIS 06-389 Exposure and airway effects of seafood industry workers in Northern Norway. Bang B., et al., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.482-492. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined airway symptoms and exposure to bioaerosols and exhaust gases in seafood industry plants in Northern Norway. It involved personal and environmental exposure measurements in 17 plants, analysis of 984 questionnaire responses and clinical examinations of 225 workers. The workers were found to be exposed to allergens, endotoxins, moulds and exhaust gases. The one-year prevalence of work-related airway symptoms was 42.8% for production workers and 25.9% for administrative workers. Mean levels of one-second forced expiratory volume and forced vital capacity were less than the predicted values in all exposed non-smoker groups. 20.5 % had increased levels of total IgE. However, specific IgE-mediated reactions seemed to be relevant only in the shrimp industry. (104963)
CIS 06-390 Effects of theatrical smokes and fogs on respiratory health in the entertainment industry. Varughese S., Teschke K., Brauer M., Chow Y., van Netten C., Kennedy S.M., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.411-418. 26 ref. (In English) Internet: Theatrical fogs are widely used in the entertainment industry. In this study, personal fog exposures, lung function and acute and chronic symptoms were measured among 101 employees at 19 sites using fogs. Chronic work-related wheezing and chest tightness were significantly associated with increased cumulative exposure to theatrical fogs over the previous two years. Acute cough and dry throat were associated with acute exposure to glycol-based fogs, while increased acute upper airway symptoms were associated with overall increased theatrical fog exposure. Lung function was significantly lower among those working closest to the fog source. It is concluded that mineral oil and glycol-based fogs are associated with acute and chronic adverse effects on respiratory health among employees. Reducing exposure through controls, substitution and elimination where possible is likely to reduce these effects. (104992)
CIS 06-391 Mesothelioma in household members of asbestos-exposed workers: 32 United States cases since 1990. Miller A., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.458-462. 28 ref. (In English) Internet: Law firms throughout the USA known for their pursuit of asbestos claims were polled for mesothelioma claims brought on behalf of family members of identifiable asbestos-exposed workers. Cases with any occupational, environmental, or other possible exposure were not included. This study reports 32 household-exposure mesothelioma cases, diagnosed since 1990. In each case, the relationship with the asbestos workers, the occupation of the asbestos worker, the type of mesothelioma and the latency are described. Mesothelioma resulting from household exposure is a continuing problem, more likely to present in the elderly and after latencies of over 40 years. Records from law firms were found to be a useful source of information. (104994)
CIS 06-392 Risk of silicosis in cohorts of Chinese tin and tungsten miners, and pottery workers (I): An epidemiological study. Chen W., Hnizdo E., Chen J.Q., Attfield M.D., Gao P., Hearl F., Lu J., Wallace W.E., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 2005, Vol.48, No.1, p.1-9. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the risk of silicosis among male cohorts of silica dust-exposed Chinese tin miners, tungsten miners and pottery workers and assessed whether gravimetric measurements of respirable silica dust sufficiently determine the risk of silicosis or whether other factors of exposure may play a significant role. Cohorts were selected from 20 mines and potteries. The cohorts included 4,028 tin miners, 14,427 tungsten miners and 4,547 pottery workers who had similar onset of employment and duration of follow-up. For a given exposure level, the risk of silicosis was higher for the tin and tungsten miners than for the pottery workers. The observed differences in the risk of silicosis among the three cohorts suggest that silica dust characteristics, in addition to cumulative respirable silica dust exposure, may affect the risk of silicosis. (104995)
CIS 06-393 Risk of silicosis in cohorts of Chinese tin and tungsten miners, and pottery workers (II): Workplace-specific silica particle surface composition. Harrison J., Chen J.Q., Miller W., Chen W., Hnizdo E., Lu J., Chisholm W., Keane M., Gao P., Wallace W., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 2005, Vol.48, No.1, p.10-15. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: It is hypothesized that surface occlusion of silica particles by an alumino-silicate coating lowers their toxic activity in respirable dust. In conjunction with an investigation of silicosis disease risk in tin and tungsten mine and pottery workplaces (see CIS 06-392), this study analysed respirable silica dusts using a technique that allows the identification of silica particles that are homogeneously coated with alumino-silicate. Forty-seven samples of respirable particles from 13 worksites were analysed. The average sample percentages of respirable silica particles with alumino-silicate occlusion were: 45% for potteries, 18% for tin mines and 13% for tungsten mines. The companion epidemiological study found lower silicosis risk per unit cumulative respirable silica dust exposure for pottery workers compared to metal miners. It is suggested that silica particle surface occlusion by alumino-silicate clay may have partially but substantially diminished the fibrogenic activity of pottery workplace silica dusts. (104996)
CIS 06-394 One agent, many diseases: Exposure-response data and comparative risks of different outcomes following silica exposure. Steenland K., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 2005, Vol.48, No.1, p.16-23. Illus. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: Evidence in recent years indicates that silica causes lung cancer and renal disease in addition to its well-known relationship to silicosis. The available exposure-response data for silica and silicosis, lung cancer and renal disease were reviewed. The risks of death or disease incidence by age 75 were compared for these three diseases, subsequent to 45 years of exposure to silica at the current exposure limit of 0.1mg/m3 respirable crystalline silica. The absolute risk of silicosis ranged from 47% to 77%. The absolute risk of death from silicosis was estimated at 1.9%. The excess risk of lung cancer death, assuming US male background rates, was 1.7%. The excess risk of end-stage renal disease was 5.1%, and the excess risk of death from renal disease was estimated to be 1.8%. Given that the usual OSHA acceptable excess risk of serious disease or death for workers is 0.1%, it is clear that the current limit is far from sufficiently protective of workers' health. Kidney disease emerges as a higher risk than either mortality from silicosis or lung cancer, although the data are based on fewer studies. (104997)
CIS 06-395 Speciation and characterization of beryllium dusts. (French: Spéciation et caractérisation de poussières de béryllium) Zayed J., L'Espérance G., Plamondon P., Rouleau M., Philippe S., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 63p. Illus. 27 ref. Price: CAD 7.49. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-89631-005-3 (In French) Internet: The level of protection to workers provided by the current threshold value for exposure to beryllium (Be) and its compounds has been challenged over the last few years. Recent cases of workers sensitized to these substances or with chronic beryllium disease indicate that this value may not be suitable for all chemical forms of this metal. The aim of this study was to characterize and identify the main chemical forms of Be sampled in the workplace. Six samples from four different industrial establishments were analysed. The results show that the majority of Be particles have a diameter of less than 10 microns and belong to a wide variety of chemical compounds. This research is part of an ongoing programme to determine the toxicity of beryllium toxicity and to review exposure limits. (104755)
CIS 06-396 Real time evaluation of formaldehyde vapours. (French: Evaluation en temps réel de vapeurs de formaldéhyde) Roberge B., Gravel R., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. ii, 31p. Illus. 26 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-89631-008-8 (In French) Internet: As part of a broader programme on the impact of lowering the threshold limit value for formaldehyde, this study involved measuring formaldehyde concentrations in air using different direct reading instruments including two infrared spectrometers, an electrochemical cell analyser and a colorimetric reader. Some of the readings were inconsistent, possibly related to the presence of other organic compounds in the air. The report comments on these findings and presents the detailed results for the four instruments evaluated. (104757)
CIS 06-397 Toxicological profile for hexachlorobenzene. Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR), Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, Toxicology Information Branch, 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, Sep. 2002. xix, 352, [27]p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. (In English) Internet: Contents: quick reference for health care providers; public health statement; health effects; chemical and physical information; production, import, use and disposal; potential for human exposure; analytical methods; regulations and advisories; glossary. Health hazards include: immunotoxic effects; embryotoxic effects; porphyria cutanea tarda (skin lesions, arthritis, liver toxicity, neurological effects, gastric disorders); liver damage; thyroid disorders; neurotoxic effects; bone diseases; renal damage; haematotoxic effects; endocrine disorders; carcinogenic effects. Update of CIS 97-213. (104811)
CIS 06-398 Toxicological profile for naphthalene, 1-methylnaphthalene, and 2-methylnaphthalene. Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, Toxicology Information Branch, 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, Aug. 2005. xix, 291, [32]p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. (In English) Internet: Contents: public health statement; health effects; chemical and physical information; production, import, use and disposal; potential for human exposure; analytical methods; regulations and advisories; glossary. Health hazards include: irritation of the respiratory tract; lung diseases; haemolytic anaemia (jaundice, gastrointestinal disorders); embryotoxic effects; cataractogenic effects. Update of CIS 97-214. (104812)
CIS 06-399 Draft toxicological profile for 1,1,1-trichloroethane. Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR), Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, Toxicology Information Branch, 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, Sep. 2004. xix, 337, [22]p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. (In English) Internet: Contents: public health statement; health effects; chemical and physical information; production, import, use and disposal; potential for human exposure; analytical methods; regulations and advisories; glossary. Health hazards include: hypotension; respiratory disorders; neurotoxic effects; skin irritation. Update of CIS 97-219. (104813)
CIS 06-400 Toxicological profile for wood creosote, coal tar creosote, coal tar, coal tar pitch, and coal tar pitch volatiles. Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR), Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Division of Toxicology, Toxicology Information Branch, 1600 Clifton Road NE, E-29, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA, Sep. 2002. xix, 354, [18]p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. (In English) Internet: Contents: public health statement; health effects; chemical and physical information; production, import, use and disposal; potential for human exposure; analytical methods; regulations and advisories; glossary. Health hazards include: irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; chemical burns; skin eruption; photosensitization dermatitis; convulsions; liver damage; renal damage; carcinogenic effects; skin cancer; scrotal cancer; embryotoxic effects. Update of CIS 97-229. (104814)
CIS 06-401 Lead - Environmental lead and its effects on the human body. (Japanese: Namari: Kankyō-chū no namari to seitai eikyō) Horiguchi S., Rōdō-kagaku Kenkyū Kyūjo-Shuppambu, Kanagawa-ken, Kawasaki-shi, Miyamae-ku Sugo 2-8-14, Japan 216, 1993. vi, 364p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: JPY 4800., ISBN 4-89760-095-2 (In Japanese) Internet: An introduction to the toxicological effects of lead from an occupational and environmental point of view. Themes covered: historical overview of lead and lead poisoning; physical and chemical properties; lead in the air, water and the soil; lead in food; lead in biological samples; absorption, excretion and distribution of lead in humans and animals; toxic effects of lead on various body organs; diagnosis, treatment and prevention of lead poisoning; alkyl derivatives of lead. (104819)
CIS 06-402 NIOSH pocket guide to chemical hazards. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Sep. 2005. xxx, 424p. Also available in CD-Rom and on the NIOSH website. (In English) Internet: This guide presents key information and data in abbreviated tabular form for 677 chemicals or substance groupings commonly found in the work environment. It includes information on chemical structures or formulas, identification codes, synonyms, exposure limits, chemical and physical properties, incompatibilities and reactivity, measurement methods, respirator recommendations, routes and symptoms of exposure and procedures for emergency treatment. Appendices cover additional requirements for carcinogens. (104901)
CIS 06-403 Cobalt and its isotopes. (French: Le cobalt et ses isotopes) Le Guen B., Ansoborlo E., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 4th Quarter 2005, No.149, 11p. Illus. 42 ref. (In French) Internet: Contents of this review article on cobalt and its isotopes: physical, chemical, nuclear and biological characteristics; threshold limit values in air, water and food; medical and industrial uses of radioactive cobalt; exposure hazards; workers' protection; medical supervision; cases of radiation accidents involving radioactive cobalt. (104767)
CIS 06-404 Approved supply list (eighth edition) - Information approved for the classification and labelling of substances and preparations dangerous for supply. HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 8th ed., 2005. xiii, 527p. Price: GBP 34.95., ISBN 0-7176-6138-5 (In English) Internet: The Approved Supply List (ASL) is for use with the Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply) Regulations 2002 (CHIP) (see CIS 03-1027). This edition supports the CHIP (Amendment) Regulations 2005 (CHIP 3.1). It is based on Annex I to the Dangerous Substances Directive (67/548/EEC, see CIS 92-23) as adapted to technical progress. It incorporates all adaptations up to the 29th and supersedes all previous editions. Inclusion of a substance in the ASL normally indicates that it is hazardous. The List indicates the information to be shown on labels when the substance is supplied in packages (symbols, risk phrases, safety precautions, EC number), the hazard classification of each substance, concentration limits and changes since the previous edition of the list. Alphabetical listings of substances, mixtures and isomers are included along with their index number. Additional information is provided on the classification of pesticides. Replaces the previous edition (CIS 02-1848). (104904)
CIS 06-405 Industrial refrigeration using ammonia: Hazards, safety and financial auditing. (Portuguese: Refrigeração industrial por amônia: Riscos, segurança e auditoria fiscal) Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego, Esplanada dos Ministérios. Bloco F, Sala 106, Anexo, Ala B, 1° Andar, 70059-900 Brasília DF, Brazil, 2005. 31p. Illus. (In Portuguese) Internet: Safety data sheet on industrial refrigeration systems that use ammonia. Contents: general description of such systems; data sheet on ammonia itself; hazards and safe management of refrigeration systems (installation, equipment and materials, protection methods, training of workers, relevant standards); financial auditing of safety measures; case study of an accident involving ammonia in a refrigeration plant in the city of Natal (state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil) and ensuing safety recommendations. Replaces CIS 04-433. (104983)
CIS 06-406 Cold storage warehouses: Doing everything to prevent fire. (French: Entrepôts frigorifiques: tout pour éviter l'incendie) Bohy M., Face au risque, Oct. 2005, No.416, p.23-26. Illus. (In French) Internet: Cold storage warehouses are vulnerable to fire since they contain large quantities of insulating material such as synthetic foams, packaging materials such as corrugated cardboard and expanded polystyrene, and stored goods that are often themselves flammable. Fires are often due to electrical short-circuits caused by icing. This article identifies the main causes of fires in cold storage warehouses, together with the means of prevention or damage control (detection systems, sprinklers, use of non-flammable insulating materials such as foamed glass). (104764)
CIS 06-407 Historical analysis of accidents in seaports. Darbra R.M., Casal J., Safety Science, Feb. 2004, Vol.42, No.2, p.85-98. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: A total of 471 seaport accidents occurring between 1900 and 2002 were identified from databases and analysed. The results show a significant increase in the frequency of accidents over time: 83% of the accidents occurred in the last 20 years and 59% in the past decade. The most frequent accidents were releases (51%), followed by fires (29%), explosions (17%) and gas clouds (3%). More than half the accidents occurred during transport. Loading and unloading operations, storage and process plants also made a large contribution to the total. The various causes of the accidents were analysed, together with the type of substance involved and the consequences for the population (number of persons killed, injured and evacuated). The need to improve certain safety measures in ports is highlighted. (104786)
CIS 06-408 Safety circuit design guide - Introduction to the categories in ISO 13849-1:1999. (French: Guide de conception des circuits de sécurité - Introduction aux catégories de la norme ISO 13849-1:1999) Bourbonnière R., Paques J.J., Monette C., Daigle R., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. iii, 74p. Illus. 35 ref. Price: CAD 7.49. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22737-2 (In French) Internet: This guide is aimed at engineers, engineering firms and enterprises that design, modify or implement control systems for the machines used in Quebec according to the categories in the international standard ISO 13849-1:1999. The overall risk assessment and reduction process according to ISO 12100 is presented. This is followed by eight examples of applications of protective devices, grouped into four categories. Each example includes details of the operation of the machine and the specific hazard under consideration, means of protection, factors considered in selecting the safety system, the electrical diagram of the proposed control circuit and its operation. (104761)
CIS 06-409 Control of noise at the workplace, a European priority. (French: Lutte contre le bruit au travail, une priorité européenne) Brett Y., Face au risque, Sep. 2005, No.415, p.23-25. Illus. (In French) Internet: It is estimated that 7% of all European workers suffer from severe hearing disorders caused by occupational exposure to noise. In the European Union, minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to noise are set out in Commission Directive 2003/10/EC (see CIS 06-253), to be transposed into national legislation by February 2006. Contents of this article on the control of noise at the workplace: definition of noise; effects of noise (hearing loss, tinnitus, dual effects of noise and the exposure to ototoxic substances such as solvents); noise control; personal protective equipment. (104763)
CIS 06-410 Noise exposure of music teachers. Behar A.., MacDonald E., Lee J., Cui J., Kunov H., Wong W., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr. 2004, Vol.1, No.4, p.243-247. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: A noise exposure study was performed to assess the risk of hearing loss to music teachers as a result of their activities. Noise exposure of 18 teachers from 15 schools was measured using noise dosimeters. The equivalent continuous noise level (Leq) of each teacher was recorded during single activities (classes) as well as for the entire day. A normalized 8-hour exposure, termed the noise exposure level (Lex), was also computed. The measured Leq exceeded the 85-dBA limit for 78% of the teachers. Lex exceeded 85 dBA for 39% of the teachers. Limited recommendations on how to reduce the noise exposures are provided. The need for a hearing conservation program is also emphasized. (104809)
CIS 06-411 Experimental study of sources of noise from heavy earth-moving machinery. Vardhan H., Karmakar N.C., Rao Y.V., Noise Control Engineering Journal, Mar.-Apr. 2005, Vol.53, No.2, p.37-42. Illus. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: An experimental study was carried out to investigate the main sources of sound from heavy earth-moving machinery, namely a bulldozer and a front-end loader. Major sound sources were the exhaust and air inlet for the engines, and the engine cooling fan on the bulldozer. Sound from the exhaust was an important source at nominal one-third-octave midband frequencies from 25 to 250Hz; sound from the air inlet was a significant contributor in the range of midband frequencies from 25 to 500Hz. Cooling fan noise for the bulldozer was important in the frequency range from 315 to 3150Hz. For the front-end loader, the enclosed cab in which the operator sits provided good noise reduction at frequencies greater than 400Hz up to 20kHz. Examination of the spectrum of the sound produced by these and other heavy earth-moving machines can indicate the need for maintenance efforts to restore noise-control capabilities that were originally installed or which should be installed. (104831)
CIS 06-412 NIOSH/NHCA best practices workshop on impulsive noise. Kardous C.A., Franks J.R., Davis R.R., Noise Control Engineering Journal, Mar.-Apr. 2005, Vol.53, No.2, p.53-60. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: In May 2003, a workshop on impulsive noise and its effects on hearing brought together leading international experts from labour, industry, and government. The following key needs were identified: instruments and standards for measurement and evaluation of impulsive sounds; international consensus on descriptors for impulsive sounds and procedures for applying results from tests on animals to models for the effect of impulsive sounds on hearing impairment of humans; international consensus on procedures to evaluate the effectiveness of hearing-protection devices and of engineering noise-controls to reduce hearing impairment caused by impulsive sounds; understanding of hearing impairment resulting from occupational and non-occupational exposure to impulsive sounds; international consensus agreement on a damage-risk criterion for impulsive sounds. (104832)
CIS 06-413 Hearing loss associated with smoking and occupational noise exposure in a Japanese metal working company. Nomura K., Nakao M., Yano E., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2005, Vol.78, No.3, p.178-184. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: A cross-sectional study of the effects of smoking on hearing loss was conducted among 397 Japanese male workers at a metal factory during their periodical health checkup. Hearing acuity was measured at 4kHz using a pure-tone audiometer in a quiet room. Among the total subjects, 55 (13.9%) were identified as having hearing loss at 4kHz, and 151 (38.0%) were currently exposed to occupational noise. When adjusted for age and occupational noise exposure, odds ratios of hearing loss were 3.16 for past smokers and 3.39 for heavy smokers compared with never-smokers. The association between smoking and hearing loss seems to be masked by atherosclerotic factors. Results suggest that the concurrent impact of smoking and occupational noise exposure on hearing loss require further attention. (104857)
CIS 06-414 Noise at work. (French: Le bruit sur le lieu de travail; Spanish: El ruido en el medio laboral.) Konkolewsky H.H., et al., Magazine - European Agency for Safety and Health at Work / Agence européenne pour la sécurité et la santé au travail, 2005, No.8, p.1-31 (whole issue). Illus. 66 ref. (In English, French, German, Spanish) Internet: This special issue on noise was published to coincide with the European Week for Safety and Health at Work 2005. It provides an overview of some of the work being done in Europe to protect workers' hearing and highlights the need to bring into force laws, regulations and administrative provisions to comply with Directive 2003/10/EC (see CIS 06-253) on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to noise. Contents: comment on Directive 2003/10/EC; HSE initiatives to reduce workplace noise in the United Kingdom; Italian good practice manual on workplace noise control; stepwise approach to controlling noise at work; acoustics in indoor workplaces; acoustic measures in sheltered workshops for handicapped workers; effects of noise on classical musicians; noise reduction in offices; speech intelligibility when wearing hearing protectors. (104900)
CIS 06-415 Noise protection: An amendment of the environment protection law. (Polish: Ochrona przed hałasem - znowelizowane prawo ochrony środowiska) Lipiński A., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, 2005, No.7-8, p.10-14. Illus. 15 ref. (In Polish) Internet: An amendment to the Environment Protection Law concerning noise protection is discussed. Includes information on basic definitions, acoustic maps, requirements for installations and equipment, noise emission permits and administrative fines. (104933)
CIS 06-416 The effectiveness of hearing protection among construction workers. Neitzel R., Seixas N., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr. 2005, Vol.2, No.4, p.227-238. Illus. 45 ref. (In English) Internet: An analysis of data on noise exposure and hearing protection among construction workers is presented. Data were drawn from several large construction industry datasets, from a self-administered questionnaire on the use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) and from direct measurements of HPD attenuation at a work site. The workers assessed in this study were found to use hearing protection less than one-quarter of the time that they were exposed above 85dBA. Workers who reported "always" using HPDs in high noise on questionnaires were found to wear them only one-third of the time that their exposures exceeded 85dBA. Workers' self-reported use of HPDs during the most noisy non-occupational activities was also found to be low. These results demonstrate the need for better hearing conservation programs and expanded noise control efforts in the construction industry. (104943)
CIS 06-417 A review of current airborne ultrasound exposure limits. Howard C., Hansen C., Zander A., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 2005, Vol.21, No.3, p.253-257. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: Research has indicated that airborne ultrasound impinging on the eardrums of humans has the potential to cause undesirable effects. This article reviews current recommended airborne ultrasound exposure limits from various standards organizations around the world. There appears to be a general consensus among standards organizations recommending that sound pressure levels should be less than 110dB above 25kHz, regardless of the exposure duration, in order to prevent undesirable subjective effects of ultrasound. (104957)
CIS 06-418 Physical work limits for Toronto firefighters in warm environments. Selkirk G.A., McLellan T.M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr. 2004, Vol.1, No.4, p.199-212. Illus. 49 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the relationship between tolerance time and metabolic rate for three different environmental temperatures (25°C, 30°C, and 35°C, 50% relative humidity) in a group of firefighters wearing firefighting protective clothing (FPC) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Thirty-seven firefighters (33 male and four female) were divided into four work groups defined as heavy, moderate, light and very light according to the strenuousness of a treadmill exercise performed while wearing FPC and SCBA. Findings show the differential impact of environmental conditions at various metabolic rates on tolerance time. Results reveal that passive recovery may not be sufficient to reduce body temperature below pre-recovery levels when working at higher metabolic rates in hot environments. (104806)
CIS 06-419 Monitoring human exposures to upper-room germicidal ultraviolet irradiation. First M.W., Weker R.A., Yasui S., Nardell E.A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, May 2005, Vol.2, No.5, p.285-292. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: The purpose of upper room ultraviolet germicidal irradiation is to interrupt the transmission of airborne infections by flooding the entire volume of premises above 2m with high-intensity ultraviolet radiation, while minimizing unintentional irradiance below this level to avoid eye and skin irritation. Air exchanges between the upper and lower room result in air disinfection of the occupied space. The objective of this study was to confirm that eye and skin exposures remain well below the recommended safe dose. Subjects wore a small photometer that recorded total ultraviolet dose during their normal routine. This value was compared with a hypothetical dose calculated from the highest measured eye-level irradiance. It was found that the observed doses were between one-third and one hundredth of the maximum eye-level irradiances. (104947)
CIS 06-420 WBGT clothing adjustments for four clothing ensembles under three relative humidity levels. Bernard T.E., Luecke C.L., Schwartz S.W., Kirkland K.S., Ashley C.D., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, May 2005, Vol.2, No.5, p.251-256. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: Threshold limit values for heat stress and strain are based on an upper wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) for ordinary work clothes, with clothing adjustment factors (CAFs) for other types of clothes. This study investigated CAFs for various types of coveralls against a baseline of cotton work clothes and examined the potential effect of relative humidity. A climatic chamber was used to slowly increase the level of heat stress by increasing air temperature at three levels of relative humidity (20%, 50% and 70%). Study participants wore one of five ensembles while walking on a treadmill at a moderate metabolic rate. Physiological and environmental data were collected. CAFs are proposed for each type of coverall. (104945)
CIS 06-421 Vibration in operating heavy haul trucks in overburden mining. Kumar S., Applied Ergonomics, Nov. 2004, Vol.35, No.6, p.509-520. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to examine the vibration experienced in the lumbar and cervical column of drivers of heavy haul trucks used in overburden mining. Vibration levels were measured on the seat pan of a new and an old truck of two different models and different carrying capacities and at the 3rd lumbar and 7th cervical vertebral levels of 14 drivers. The vibrations were compared with ISO standards and it was observed that heavy haul trucks frequently generated vibrations in excess of ISO standards in overburden mining operations, representing a health hazard to the driver. (104972)
CIS 06-422 Forecasting labor productivity changes in construction using the PMV index. Mohamed S., Srinavin K., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Apr. 2005, Vol.35, No.4, p.345-351. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: Many attempts have been made to establish mathematical models reflecting the relationship between the thermal environment and construction labour productivity. This article briefly describes and highlights the main shortcomings of three established thermal environment productivity forecasting models. It introduces a fourth model, where productivity can be predicted as a function of the predicted mean vote (PMV) index. It then presents a comparative analysis between all four models with emphasis on their sensitivity to air temperature. Field data collected from various construction sites demonstrate that observed productivity data agree well with those predicted by the PMV-based model. (104836)
CIS 06-423 Evaluation of the whole-body vibration exposure of Montreal subway operators and study of the dynamic behaviour of cars and their suspension system. (French: Evaluation de l'exposition aux vibrations globales du corps des opérateurs du métro de Montréal et étude du comportement dynamique des motrices et de leur système de suspension) Boileau P.E., Boutin J., Rakheja S., Politis H., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. ix, 64p. Illus. 13 ref. Price: CAD 8.56. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22746-1 (In French) Internet: Montreal subway drivers complain about the confined space, uncomfortable seats and exposure to vibration, which suggests that the ergonomic constraints and vibration pose health risks such as musculoskeletal disorders. As part of an ergonomic study, this project defined the vibrational stresses to which these workers are exposed, characterized the vibration environment of the cars, identified the operational factors likely to influence whole-body vibration exposure levels and finally, led to the development of seat suspension design criteria for reducing vibration. (104751)
CIS 06-424 Design of a cost-effective sound intensity meter and preliminary evaluation of a new spatial tracing concept for acoustical intensity mapping. (French: Conception d'un intensimètre économique et évaluation préliminaire d'un nouveau concept de repérage spatial pour la réalisation de cartographie d'intensité acoustique) Pearson M., L'Espérance A., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. iii, 47p. Illus. 20 ref. Price: CAD 8.56. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22755-0 (In French) Internet: Although noise is a major cause of occupational health and safety problems, the lack of effective tools often makes it difficult to analyse its intensity and to implement preventive actions. Sound intensity measuring, the only standardized method for precisely evaluating the acoustical power of noise sources, requires costly equipment and advanced knowledge. The objective of this research project was to design a simpler and less costly sound intensity meter based on digital signal processor (DSP) mapping, and to conduct a preliminary evaluation of a new concept of spatial location. Additional work required for developing system with a user-friendly graphical interface for mapping sound intensity is proposed. (104752)
CIS 06-425 Ergonomics and usability of an electrically adjustable shower trolley. Nevala N., Tamminen-Peter L., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2004, Vol.34, No.2, p.131-138. Illus. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to investigate the musculoskeletal, cardio-respiratory and perceived work strain for nurses performing bathing tasks using two types of shower trolley: one with electrically-adjustable height and a turning mechanism and a traditional trolley with hydraulically-adjustable height but without a turning mechanism. The subjects were 12 healthy female nurses. Measurements of muscular activity, heart rate, perceived strain and perceptions of the shower trolleys were carried out during a normal workday. The muscular activity of the back muscles and the perceived musculoskeletal strain after work were lower with the electrically-adjustable trolley than with the traditional trolley. The usability features were perceived to be better for the electrically-adjustable trolley. There were no significant differences in the muscular activity of the trapezius muscles or the cardio-respiratory strain between the two types of trolleys. (104772)
CIS 06-426 Assessment of slip resistance of lumber wraps during frosty winter conditions. Aschan C., Hirvonen M., Mannelin T., Rajamäki E., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Feb. 2004, Vol.33, No.2, p.149-157. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this project was to reduce the risk of accidents during the loading and unloading lumber bundles by developing a measurement method to estimate the slipperiness of lumber wraps and by determining the slip resistance values required for safe working. The slip resistance of lumber wraps was assessed in laboratory walking tests and showed significant correlation with results of the proposed measurement method. Based on the results, the limit value for the dynamic coefficient of friction of the frost-covered lumber wraps was recommended to be ≥0.30. The method may be used to estimate the slipperiness of existing lumber wraps and in the development of new, safer products. (104840)
CIS 06-427 Above and beyond. Holden M., Safety and Health Practitioner, June 2005, Vol.23, No.6, p.58-60. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: This article comments on the Work at Height Regulations 2005 which came into force on 6 April 2005. They apply to practically all sectors of industry in the United Kingdom and bring together principles related to work at height enshrined in various sections of existing legislation. They place new and amended duties on persons who engage in such work. In particular, the article discusses the selection of collective and personal protection systems, competence and training. (104928)
CIS 06-428 Forklift safety, traffic engineering and intelligent transport systems: A case study. Horberry T., Larsson T.J., Johnston I., Lambert J., Applied Ergonomics, Nov. 2004, Vol.35, No.6, p.575-581. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: A forklift safety project was undertaken at two manufacturing sites in Australia. The purpose of the project was to help improve safety and to develop a series of design interventions involving both the vehicles themselves and in-plant transport. The case study describes the overall nature of the safety interventions proposed and introduces the methods developed to assess safety. For the traffic engineering interventions, reductions were achieved in terms of the number of potentially hazardous interactions involving forklifts. Similarly, for the vehicle interventions, the research found that forklift drivers and plant managers considered the new systems to be acceptable in operational conditions, and the intended safety benefits were well understood. The results are discussed and conclusions are drawn regarding human factors in forklift safety. (104973)
CIS 06-429 Laceration injuries among workers at meat packing plants. Cai C., Perry M.J., Sorock G.S., Hauser R., Spanjer K.J., Mittleman M.A., Stenz T.L., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.403-410. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: This retrospective study on laceration injuries was conducted using injury reports from two large meat packing plants in the USA from 1998 to 2000. The total number of workers observed during the study period ranged from 2,449 to 2,682 per year. Laceration injury rates in plant 2 were close to the expected OSHA rates (3.0 per 100 workers per year), but rates in plant 1 were considerably higher. Handheld non-powered tools were the most common objects causing injuries while the slaughter department had the highest number of injuries. Finger injuries from a handheld non-powered tool were the most frequent. Findings confirm the high rate of injury from laceration in this industry and indicate that the hazard varies as a function of time into shift, task being performed and type of tool being used. (104991)
CIS 06-430 Development of safer fodder-cutter machines: A case study from north India. Mohan D., Kumar A., Patel R., Varghese M., Safety Science, Jan. 2004, Vol.42, No.1, p.43-55. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: Fodder-cutter machines are used daily by farmers and their families in India for the preparation of fodder for their livestock. An epidemiological study carried out among farming communities in northern India showed that all age groups sustained fodder-cutter injuries while operating the machine, and around half of the victims were children below 15 years of age. The injuries led to a large number of limb amputations among persons operating or playing with the machine. A detailed study of injuries and machine characteristics resulted in a safer fodder-cutter design. The improvements described in this article are cost effective and can be incorporated in both existing and new fodder-cutter machines. (104781)
CIS 06-431 Safety rules and regulations on mine sites - The problem and a solution. Laurence D., Journal of Safety Research, 2005, Vol.36, No.1, p.39-50. Illus. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: A survey of safety attitudes was conducted at 33 mine sites in Australia and other countries, involving almost 500 mineworkers. The questionnaire survey investigated the opinions of the mining workforce on safety rules and regulations generally and in relation to their specific jobs on the mine site. The insights provided by the mineworkers enabled a set of principles to be developed to guide mine management and regulators in the development of more effective rules and regulations. In particular, it was noted that management should not continue to produce more and more rules and regulations to cover every aspect of mining, since detailed prescriptive regulations, safe work procedures, and voluminous safety management plans will not "connect" with a miner. (104922)
CIS 06-432 Work-related injuries in residential and drywall carpentry. Lipscomb H.J., Dement J.M., Li L., Nolan J., Patterson D., Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, June 2003, Vol.18, No.6, p.479-488. Illus. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: Findings are presented of the first two years of an active injury surveillance project among a cohort of 4429 carpenters working on residential building and drywall installation. Injuries were reported by participating contractors. Injured carpenters were interviewed according to a standard questionnaire protocol. The overall estimated injury rate was 16.9 per 200,000 hours worked. Injuries most commonly involved were being struck by or against something, manual materials handling injuries and falls. Manual materials handling injuries often involved very heavy objects or tasks. Falls from heights occurred from a variety of surfaces and were not just injuries of inexperience. Carpenters reported the need for more attention to common fall protection practices, such as the use of more toe boards and guardrails. Poor housekeeping was involved in the majority of same level falls well as in some manual materials handling injuries. (104779)
CIS 06-433 Protective gloves: Study of the resistance of gloves to multiple mechanical aggressors. (French: Gants de protection: étude sur la résistance des gants aux agresseurs mécaniques multiples) Vu-Hhanh T., Vu T.B.N., Nguyen C.T., Lara J., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. viii, 74 Illus. 67 ref. + CD-ROM. Price: CAD 10.70. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-89631-000-2 (In French) Internet: Wearing protective gloves adapted to the type of hazard involved and the type of work carried out can help reduce hand injuries, which represent about 20% of all compensated injuries. Cuts, scratches and pricks are common in workplaces where metal parts, glass or tools are handled. Earlier research has shown that gloves that protect against cuts do not necessarily protect against pricks, and vice versa. The objective of this project was to develop a better understanding of rupture mechanisms and to generate data to help manufacturers improve the resistance of gloves to complex mechanical hazards. Laboratory tests were conducted with the cooperation of glove and material manufacturers and validated through workplace testing. (104754)
CIS 06-434 Guide for the de-blocking of ore and waste chutes (Revised version). (French: Guide de déblocage des cheminées à minerai et à stérile (Version révisée)) Hadjigeorgiou J., Lessard J.F., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, rev. ed. 2005. 17p. Illus. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-89631-003-7 (In French) Internet: Aimed at mining engineers, this document is a guide for the safe de-blocking of mine ore and waste chutes. It was prepared within the scope of the overall project on the design of ore and waste chutes analysed under CIS 04-450. See also CIS 04-451 and CIS 06-436 for reports on other aspects of this project. Replaces CIS 04-452. (104758)
CIS 06-435 Safety of mine hoists controlled by programmable systems. Paques J.J., Germain L., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 25p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: CAD 4.50. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-550-44653-4 (In English) Internet: This technical guide is intended for users and installers of mine hoists controlled by programmable control systems (PES). It describes safety devices and procedures for the safe operation of these machines and provides a list of periodical tests and checks. (104759)
CIS 06-436 List of work methods related to ore and waste chute clearing and rehabilitation operations (revised version). (French: Liste des méthodes de travail reliées aux opérations de déblocage et de réhabilitation des cheminées a minerai et à stérile (Version révisée)) Hadjigeorgiou J., Lessard J.F., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. 20p. Illus. 1 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-89631-002-9 (In French) Internet: Aimed at mining engineers, this document is an appendix to the guide for the safe de-blocking of mine ore and waste chutes (see CIS 06-434). It provides additional information on various de-blocking methods including: water jets, drilling and use of explosives. It was prepared within the scope of the overall project on the design of ore and waste chutes analysed under CIS 04-450. See also CIS 04-451 for a guide to the design of mine ore and waste chutes that avoids blockages and prevents or reduces wall deterioration. Replaces CIS 04-453. (104760)
CIS 06-437 Shovel loaders. (French: Chargeuses pelleteuses) Le Brech A., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2003. 79p. Illus. 22 ref. Price: EUR 7.30. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1112-9 (In French) Internet: This safety guide describes legal requirements concerning the design, maintenance and operation of shovel (backhoe) loaders and sets out safety rules and good practice for their use. It is aimed at enterprise managers, safety managers, trainers and drivers. Contents: causes of accidents; regulatory framework; different types of shovel loaders; general safety rules; precautions to be taken before and during start-up, during work and at the end of work; hazards; break-down on the construction site; transport of loaders; maintenance and repair. (104847)
CIS 06-438 Hydraulic excavators. (French: Pelles hydrauliques) Le Brech A., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2002. 78p. Illus. 21 ref. Price: EUR 7.30. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1103-X (In French) Internet: This safety guide describes legal requirements concerning the design, maintenance and operation of hydraulic excavators and sets out safety rules and good practice for their use. It is aimed at enterprise managers, safety managers, trainers and drivers. Contents: causes of accidents; regulatory framework; different types of hydraulic excavators; general safety rules; precautions to be taken before and during start-up, during work and at the end of work; hazards; break-down on the construction site; transport of hydraulic excavators; maintenance and repair. (104849)
CIS 06-439 Wheel-mounted loaders. (French: Chargeuses) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Dec. 2003. 75p. Illus. 20 ref. Price: EUR 7.30. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1117-X (In French) Internet: This safety guide describes legal requirements concerning the design, maintenance and operation of wheel-mounted loaders and sets out safety rules and good practice for their use. It is aimed at enterprise managers, safety managers, trainers and drivers. Contents: causes of accidents; regulatory framework; different types of wheel-mounted loaders; general safety rules; precautions to be taken before and during start-up, during work and at the end of work; hazards; break-down on the construction site; transport of loaders; maintenance and repair. (104850)
CIS 06-440 How offshore helicopter travel is regulated. HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, rev.ed., 2005. 8p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This leaflet describes the functions of the Health and Safety Executive and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the UK with respect to helicopter safety, and outlines the responsibilities of helicopter operators, flight crews and installation operators. Relevant legislation is also outlined. It replaces the 1996 leaflet on the same subject (CIS 97-654). (104816)
CIS 06-441 Occupational exposure to allergenic mites in a Polish Zoo. Solarz K., Szilman P., Szilman E., AAEM - Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine, 2004, Vol.11, No.1, p.27-33. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was carried out from April 2000-March 2001. During this period, 49 samples of dust, litter, debris and residues from cages and run-offs of mammals, birds and reptiles in the Silesian Zoo were examined for the presence of mites, especially the allergenic taxa. Mites were found in 44 of 49 samples analysed (89.8%). The examination revealed that cages and run-offs of different mammals, aviaries of parrots and terrariums of snakes are important sources of some allergenic mites that might cause allergies in workers. (104931)
CIS 06-442 Time of farmers' exposure to biological factors in agricultural working environment. Mołocznik A., AAEM - Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine, 2004, Vol.11, No.1, p. 85-89. Illus. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: In a study of 30 farms, the duration of farmers' exposure to biological and other factors of the working environment was investigated using the Private Farmer Work Chart. Among 48 work activities contributing to the full annual work cycle, 15 activities were associated with 5 risk factors. These were mainly field activities (plant harvesting and fertilizing, chemical plant protection, cultivation activities). Exposure to agricultural dust and elements of the thermal environment were the most common risk factors, followed by contact with biological factors, noise, vibration and chemical agents. Biological factors were associated with nearly 60% of farm activities, mainly the spreading of manure, animal breeding and plant harvesting. (104932)
CIS 06-443 The biological agents in the working environment - new regulations. (Polish: Czynniki biologiczne w środowisku pracy - nowe przepisy) Zapór L., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, 2005, No.7-8, p.32-33. 3 ref. (In Polish) Internet: This article describes a decree on the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents at work. The decree implements the provisions of Directive 2000/54/EC in Polish law. The classification of harmful biological agents is described and activities during which the employees are exposed to these agents are listed along with protective measures. (104935)
CIS 06-444 Occupational exposure among bakery workers: Impact on the occurrence of work-related symptoms as compared with allergy characteristics. Droste J., Vermeire P., Van Sprundel M., Bulat P., Braeckman L., Myny K., Vanhoorne M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.458-465. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the relationship between exposure to occupational allergens, sensitization, atopy and work-related symptoms among bakery workers. Data were collected by questionnaire, skin prick tests, lung function tests, and exposure measurements among 246 workers from 74 bakeries and analysed using logistic and linear regression analyses. It was found that exposure levels were associated with respiratory symptoms, with sensitization to baker's allergens and with decreased lung function. High exposure and sensitization to common and bakers' allergens were independent risk factors for work-related symptoms. However, allergy determinants performed best in predicting work-related symptoms. (104962)
CIS 06-445 Endotoxin exposure and symptoms in wastewater treatment workers. Smit L.A.M., Spaan S., Heederik D., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 2005, Vol.48, No.1, p.30-39. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigated endotoxin exposure and work-related symptoms in wastewater treatment workers. Questionnaire on data on symptoms was obtained from 468 employees in 67 sewage treatment plants and personal endotoxin exposure was measured in a sample of workers in three different periods during one year. Endotoxin exposure ranged from 0.6 to 2093 endotoxin units (EU)/m3, the geometric mean exposure being low (27EU/m3). Factor analysis yielded three clusters of correlated symptoms: lower respiratory and skin symptoms, flu-like and systemic symptoms, and upper respiratory symptoms. Symptoms appeared to be more prevalent in workers exposed to endotoxin levels higher than 50EU/m3. A significant dose-response relationship was found for lower respiratory and skin symptoms and for flu-like and systemic symptoms. (104998)
CIS 06-446 Tumor necrosis factor-α hyper-responsiveness to endotoxin in whole blood is associated with chronic bronchitis in farmers. Lambert G.P., Spurzem J.R., Romberger D.J., Wyatt T.A., Lyden E., Stromquist A.M., Merchant J.A., Von Essen S.G., Journal of Agromedicine, 2005, Vol.10, No.1, p.39-44. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: Many farmers present respiratory problems that may be related to workplace inhalation of organic dust containing endotoxins. The purpose of this study was to determine whether blood cytokine responsiveness to endotoxin is associated with respiratory disorders. 95 farmers completed a respiratory symptom questionnaire and were subjected to spirometry and blood sampling. Blood was incubated 24 hours in the presence and absence of endotoxin and analyzed for tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Hypo- or hyper-responsiveness to endotoxin was based on whether cytokine values were in the lower or upper 10% of the group range, respectively. A significant association existed between TNF-α hyper-responsiveness and chronic bronchitis. These results indicate that the blood cytokine assay may be useful to identify persons at risk of developing bronchitis following exposure to organic dust at the workplace. (104861)
CIS 06-447 Rapid assessment of microbial hazards in metalworking fluids. Webster A.R., Lee J.Y., Deininger R.A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr. 2005, Vol.2, No.4, p.213-218. Illus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, a filtration-based rapid adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assay, which takes less than 10min to perform, was evaluated as a test method for estimating total number of bacteria in metalworking fluid. This evaluation used two types of metalworking fluid (soluble and semi-synthetic) that were inoculated using Pseudomonas aeruginosa and spoiled metalworking fluid. Daily parallel testing was completed using the rapid ATP assay and the standard plate count methods. Test results were evaluated by statistical correlation and regression procedures for each fluid type. Study results indicate that the rapid ATP assay is strongly correlated to the standard plate count method for soluble and semi-synthetic fluids. (104942)
CIS 06-448 Occupational physicians and personnel with a chronic infection. (German: Betriebsärztinnen/-ärtze und chronisch infiziertes Personal) Jarke J., Praktische Arbeitsmedizin, July 2005, No.1, p. 9-15. Illus. 13 ref. (In German) Internet: Description of measures for preventing the transmission of pathogens by infected health care personnnel to patients and to other employees. The pathogens considered are hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV as well as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Precautions to be taken include continuous surveillance of infected personnel by an occupational physician, constant reminders of safety guidelines (use of protective gloves and appropriate containers for waste disposal) and notification of injuries to occupational physicians. Following an accident involving exposure to blood, a meeting should be held in the presence of the person concerned, the occupational physician, a virologist and representatives of the works council and the human resources department. The meeting should decide whether the person should continue his/her work or would benefit from transfer to other work. Among newly-infected people, the percentage who develop a chronic infection is from 5 to 10% for hepatitis B, 70% for hepatitis C and 100% for HIV. (104871)
CIS 06-449 HIV/AIDS is poorly understood by enterprises - Results of a global survey. (German: Unternehmen wissen zu wenig über Aids/HIV - Ergebnisse einer weltweiten Umfrage) Zimmermann S., Bundesarbeitsblatt, 2005, No.4, p. 19-24. Illus. (In German) Internet: The World Economic Forum, UNIADS and the Harvard School of Public Health surveyed 9000 enterprise managers in 104 countries to investigate their understanding of the impact of HIV/AIDS on their enterprise. According to the report of the survey, published under the title "Business and HIV/AIDS: Commitment and Action" (see CIS 06-461), most of the managers questioned, even those in the countries most affected by HIV/AIDS, did not know the rate of infection among their employees. It is suggested that it is because of this ignorance that so little effort is made to prevent HIV infection. Only 4% of enterprises in Eastern European have a section on AIDS in their health promotion programme, and this rate falls to 2% in the Baltic countries, Russia and the Ukraine, where the rate of infection is high. It is feared that HIV/AIDS will spread from Eastern to Western Europe, a fact not foreseen by Western European business leaders. Only a few large German enterprises, such as those in the automobile industry, have taken an interest in this question. (104872)
CIS 06-450 Health service personnel with chronic HBV, HCV and HIV infections - Guidelines for work versus exclusion from the profession. (German: Chronisch HBV-, HCV-, HIV-infiziertes Personal im Gesundheitsdienst - Regelungen zur Berufsausübung versus Berufsverbote) Jarke J., Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Umweltmedizin, 2004, No.8, p. 428-434. 12 ref. (In German) Internet: Patients at health care centres should be effectively protected against viral infections (hepatitis, HIV) transmitted by infected health care personnel. While the occupational physician is responsible for health and safety at work rather than for protecting the patient, they must act with regard to the well-being of the patient. In Germany, no guidelines have been issued for the protection of patients which could serve as a guide to occupational physicians, infected health care workers and employers. Nevertheless, recommendations published by scientific institutions provide sufficient guidance for rational measures to be drawn up to allow infected workers to continue in their occupation and to enable employers to carry out their duties in accordance with labour laws. Unfortunately, those in charge often make decisions on an irrational or emotional basis, leading to discrimination and injustice for health care workers. It is argued that a legal directive is urgently needed. (104873)
CIS 06-451 Different forms of prophylaxis after exposure to HIV. (German: Differenzierte Handlungsanweisungen bei der ostexpositionprophylaxe HIV) von Schwarzkopf H., Paper presented at the 17th Freiburg Symposium, "Occupational Medicine in the Health Services", 10-12 September 2003. Illus. (In German) Internet: Guidelines concerning the management of health care personnel in contact with material potentially infected with HIV provide advice on whether it is necessary to administer post-exposure prophylaxis in order to reduce the risk of transmission. According to the type of exposure (puncture or cut, contact with skin, mucous membranes, lips or eyes, etc.), it is advisable to take immediate precautions within the following two hours, or the following 12 to 24 hours. In all cases, disinfection should be carried out and the occupational physician, or the emergency services or HIV specialist should be consulted to decide whether a post-exposure prophylaxis should be started. Such a prophylaxis is indicated when the patient is seropositive. When in doubt, a blood analysis and an ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) test should be carried out. Everything should be done to limit the use of post-exposure prophylaxis to obvious cases and to give as little medication as possible and in the most targeted manner. (104874)
CIS 06-452 Is AIDS still a topical issue in occupational medicine?. (German: AIDS - immer noch ein Thema für Arbeitsmedizin?) Gensch R.W, Paper presented at the 17th Freiburg Symposium, "Occupational Medicine in the Health Services", 10-12 September 2003. (In German) Internet: Infection with HIV/AIDS is an important occupational health issue in health care establishments. According to estimations, there will be some 500,000 puncture injuries per year potentially leading to infection with HIV or hepatitis B or C. To reduce the number of these injuries, the following measures are necessary: provision of special containers for hazardous waste; use of fewer dangerous instruments; procedures for the declaration of accidents involving exposure to blood and the offer of post-exposure prophylaxis; reduction of work rates; and examination of workstation ergonomics. It is also necessary to make health service managers aware of the importance of workers' health requirements so that these workers will in turn adopt appropriate behaviours with respect to safety and health. (104875)
CIS 06-453 Needle-stick injuries in health care - Frequency, causes and preventive measures. (German: Kanülenstichverletzungen im Gesundheitsdienst - Häufigkeit, Ursachen und Präventionsstrategien) Hoffman F, Kralj N., Beie M., Gesundheitswesen, 2002, No.5, p. 259-266. Illus. 112 ref. (In German) Internet: Health service personnel are at risk of infection by blood-borne pathogens, notably the hepatitis B and C virus and the human immunodeficiency virus (HBV, HCV, HIV) which may be contracted during injuries or punctures with sharp or pointed instruments or needles. An epidemiological study conducted in two German health care establishments showed that some 500,000 needle-stick injuries occur each year in Germany, most of them during the disposal or recapping of used syringes. The administration of post-exposure prophylaxis is recommended for all health service workers immediately after the declaration of exposure. Programmes for the prevention of needle-stick injuries (avoidance of recapping, waste disposal in specially adapted containers, wearing surgical gloves) would limit the cost of post-exposure prophylaxis and avoid the development of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis or liver cancer. (104876)
CIS 06-454 HIV infection of occupational origin among medical personnel - An assessment. (German: Berufsbedingte HIV-Infektionen bei medizinischem Personal - eine aktuelle Übersicht) Jarke J, Marcus U., Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Umweltmedizin, 2002, No.5, p. 218-220, 222-231. 73 ref. (In German) Internet: In Germany, the risk of workplace infection by HIV is lower than that for hepatitis B or C. The possibilities for preventing a chronic infection by one of these viruses by a post-exposure intervention are comparable. Prophylactic procedures following a known or possible exposure to HIV are described in detail in German-Austrian recommendations concerning post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. In 44 declared cases of HIV infection of occupational origin among health care workers in Germany, only eight were identified as being clearly linked to work. In 16 cases, the link with occupational exposure was judged to be insufficient and in 20 cases, other risk factors were evident. To detect HIV infections contracted at work following an undeclared exposure and to facilitate the evaluation of the risk of transmission at work, all health care personnel in all sectors at risk should be offered HIV tests at regular intervals. (104877)
CIS 06-455 HIV/AIDS infection of occupational origin outside the health sector. (German: Berufskrankheit HIV/AIDS bei anderer Tätigkeit als im Gesundheitswesen) Jarke J., Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Umweltmedizin, 2002, n°5, p. 214-217. 5 ref. (In German) Internet: In Germany, health care personnel who contract an HIV infection in the workplace may be compensated according to the provisions of the relevant German order (Berufskranheitenverordnung - BKV). Moreover, German legislation on accident compensation (Entwicklungshelfergesetz - EhfG) allows the recognition of an HIV infection as an occupational diseases even if it was acquired outside the health care setting. Since the start of the epidemic, 40 cases have been recorded in Germany. By the end of 2001, 20 cases had been compensated; 18 workers had become infected with HIV while working in different non-health occupations in countries with a high prevalence of HIV. This article describes the accident compensation laws, the criteria for the recognition of occupationally acquired HIV infection by accident insurance associations and the cases recognized so far. (104878)
CIS 06-456 Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV - An assessment. (German: HIV-PEP State of the art) Plettenberg A., Albrecht D., Lorenzen T., Stoehr A., Bundesgesundheitsblatt - Gesundheitsforschung - Gesundheitsschutz, 2000, Suppl.1, p.S18-S25. 18 ref (In German) Internet: Recommendations published in 1998 by the German-Austrian AIDS societies describe the risks of transmission of HIV, preventive measures and prophylaxis procedures for different types of exposure. Regardless of the origin of the contamination (occupational or following sexual relations or drug use), post-exposure prophylaxis is indicated in certain conditions. The procedure involves taking two reverse transcriptase inhibitors (AZT and 3-TC) and a protease inhibitor (Indinavir or Nelfinavir). Depending on individual characteristics, other medication may be administered as soon as possible after exposure (if possible within two hours). Administration of the protease inhibitor is not recommended for pregnant women. The official recommendations of the German-Austrian AIDS societies are described and supplemented. (104879)
CIS 06-457 Working positively: A guide for NGOs managing HIV/AIDS in the workplace. UK Consortium on AIDS & International Development, Grayston Centre, 28 Charles Square, London N1 6HT, United Kingdom, Dec. 2003. 24p. Illus. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: This guide identifies the key issues involved in developing a workplace strategy for the management of HIV/AIDS and provides examples of approaches adopted by different NGOS, particularly in countries with a high prevalence of the disease. Contents: recent trends and current situation in HIV/AIDS workplace strategies; procedure for developing a strategy; situation analysis; overview of HIV/AIDS workplace policies; education and awareness programmes; treatment and care. Includes case studies and a list of relevant publications and organizations. (104884)
CIS 06-458 HIV/AIDS in the transport sector of Southern African countries: A rapid assessment of cross-border regulations and formalities. ILO Programme on HIV/AIDS and the world of work (ILOAIDS), ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. ix, 35p. 4 ref., ISBN 92-2-117985-0 (printed version), ISBN 92-2-117986-9 (web version) (In English) Internet: This report assesses policies and practices relating to HIV/AIDS in the transport sector of Southern African countries, focusing on the harmonization of border-crossing procedures to prevent long waiting periods. Common risk factors are identified and recommendations are presented for the implementation of policies and activities to help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in the sector. (104888)
CIS 06-459 The business response to HIV/AIDS: Impact and lessons learned. (French: Riposte des entreprises au VIH/SIDA: Impact et leçons tirées; Spanish: Respuesta de las empresas ante el VIH/SIDA: impacto de las lecciones aprendidas.) Daly K., Global Business Council on HIV&AIDS, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 20 avenue Appia, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2000. iv, 91p. Illus. Price: USD 15.00. (Downloadable version free of charge)., ISBN 92-9173-006-8 (en), ISBN 92-9173-141-2 (fr), ISBN 92-9173-142-0 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This report follows on from the report "Business Response to HIV/AIDS: Innovation and Partnerships" published in 1997. It examines the impact of HIV/AIDS on business at the macroeconomic and individual company levels and provides guidance on how to undertake HIV/AIDS policies and programmes. Factors that create and maintain successful partnerships in response to HIV/AIDS are highlighted. Case studies from 17 companies worldwide are presented to illustrate a range of workplace activities in response to the disease, identifying the key lessons learned and providing models of good practice. (104881)
CIS 06-460 HIV/AIDS: It's your business. (French: Le VIH/SIDA: Une affaire qui vous concerne; Spanish: El VIH/SIDA: Un asunto de todos) Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 20 avenue Appia, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, Aug. 2003. 28p. Illus., ISBN 92-9173-314-8 (en), ISBN 92-9173-315-6 (fr), ISBN 92-9173-316-4 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This report examines the economic and social impacts of HIV/AIDS on companies and workers and sets out a checklist for developing company HIV/AIDS policies and programmes. Highlights the need for information dissemination and education, ensuring non-discriminatory practices, helping the more vulnerable workers and providing treatment and care for sick workers. Includes brief case studies of workplace programmes in a range of sectors worldwide. (104882)
CIS 06-461 Business and HIV/AIDS: Commitment and action. A global review of the business response to HIV/AIDS 2004-2005. Bloom D., Bloom L.R., Steven D., Weston M., World Economic Forum, Global Health Initiative, 91-93 route de la Capite, 1233 Genève, Switzerland, 2004-2005. 57p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This report provides an overview and summary of business perceptions and responses to HIV/AIDS. It draws in particular on the information collected by the 2004-2005 Executive Opinion Survey that forms part of the World Economic Forum's annual Global Competitiveness Report. The survey questioned nearly 9000 business executives in 104 countries. Questions on HIV/AIDS addressed the perceived impact of the virus (and to a lesser extent TB and malaria) on workforces and communities, the effect of HIV on company operations and revenues, and firms' response to the disease. The report includes global, regional and industry level reviews of the impact of HIV/AIDS and the business response. (104887)
CIS 06-462 Report on the global HIV/AIDS epidemic 2002. (French: Rapport sur l'épidémie mondiale de VIH/SIDA 2002; Russian: Doklad o global'noj ėpidemii VIČ/SPIDa 2002 g.; Spanish: Informe sobre la epidemia mundial de VIH/SIDA 2002) Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 20 avenue Appia, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, July 2002. 226p. Illus. Bibl. ref., ISBN 92-1973-185-4 (en), ISBN 92-9173-186-2 (fr), ISBN 92-9173-187-0 (es), ISBN 92-9173-193-5 (ru) (In English, French, Russian, Spanish) Internet: This report provides a global overview of the state of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and reviews responses mounted by governments, the business sector and civil society. It includes a chapter on AIDS and the world of work which summarizes the implementation of workplace programmes around the world, highlighting the adaptation of programmes to local conditions, the needs of workers in the informal economy, innovative programmes in South African gold mines and international collaboration. Includes country-specific data and estimates as of end 2001. (104889)
CIS 06-463 2004 Report on the global AIDS epidemic. (French: Rapport sur l'épidémie mondiale de SIDA 2004; Russian: Doklad o global'noj ėpidemii SPIDa 2004 g.) Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 20 avenue Appia, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, June 2004. 228p. Illus. Bibl. ref., ISBN 92-9173-355-5 (en), ISBN 92-9173-356-3 (fr), ISBN 92-9173-358-x (ru) (In English, French, Russian) Internet: This report sets out current knowledge on the state of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and provides country-specific estimates and data as of end 2003. Topics highlighted in this year's report include: the impact of AIDS on people and societies; treatment, care and support for people living with HIV; financing the response to AIDS; and national responses to AIDS. (104890)
CIS 06-464 The prediction of safe lifting behavior: An application of the theory of planned behavior. Johnson S.E., Hall A., Journal of Safety Research, 2005, Vol.36, No.1, p.63-73. Illus. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: This study used a survey to apply the theory of planned behaviour to safe-lifting among 136 warehouse workers. Results revealed that perceived behavioural control and intention were the strongest predictors of safe-lifting behaviour. Attitudes did not surface as effective direct predictors of safe lifting, but did affect behaviour and intent via mediating factors (subjective norms and perceived behavioural control). Finally, the theory of planned behaviour was supported as an effective model explaining safe-lifting behaviour. (104930)
CIS 06-465 A new evaluation method for daylight discomfort glare. Nazzal A.A., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Apr. 2005, Vol.35, No.4, p.295-306. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: This article presents an improved method for the evaluation of glare consisting of a standard monitoring protocol and advanced formulae. The proposed method appears to yield sensible and consistent glare values when tested against an existing glare evaluation system. It has also been coded into a small programme to calculate luminescence values and used together with radiance to compute daylight glare indices. The method may be used for evaluating discomfort glare from daylight. Future developments of the method are discussed. (104835)
CIS 06-466 An ergonomic intervention to reduce back strain among apple harvest workers in New York State. Earle-Richardson G., Jenkins P., Fulmer S., Mason C., Burdick P., May J., Applied Ergonomics, May 2005, Vol.36, No.3, p.327-334. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: The impact of modifications to the apple picking bucket on common picking postures, self-reported comfort, ease of use and speed of harvest was examined for 14 apple pickers. The modification consisted of attaching the bucket to a hip belt in addition to the shoulder strap, ensuring a better load distribution. Subjects wore the modified system and their postures were recorded during their work. The modification did not significantly alter time spent in the various postures. 78.6% of interviewed workers preferred the modified bucket, 71.4% noted a difference in the back, neck, or shoulder, while 64.3% said regular use of the modified bucket would slow their work. The modified bucket seems to be generally acceptable to workers, but needs further development to overcome unintended effects. (104980)
CIS 06-467 An integrated analysis of ergonomics and time consumption in Swedish "craft-type" car disassembly. Kazmierczak K., Mathiassen S.E., Forsman M., Winkel J., Applied Ergonomics, May 2005, Vol.36, No.3, p.263-273. Illus. 47 ref. (In English) Internet: Because of increased legislative requirements for automobile recycling in Sweden, the automobile dismantling activity is evolving from manual work in small-scale workshops to larger highly-automated units. This study assessed the potential impact of the mechanisation of this sector on workers' workload, speed of work and mechanical exposures. A total of ten healthy male workers employed in five disassembly plants were observed during typical working days by means of video recordings. Subjects were also equipped with inclinometers and goniometers for postural angle measurements. It was found that disassembly work involved pronounced circulatory and walking loads, together with peak lumbar loads. Organizational-type rationalisations can be expected to increase postural exposures for most workers, while a concurrent increase in mechanisation might reduce circulatory exposures, the amount of walking and peak lumbar loads. (104976)
CIS 06-468 Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in union ironworkers. Forde M.S., Punnett L., Wegman D.H., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Apr. 2005, Vol.2, No.4, p.203-212. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) symptoms and doctor-diagnosed MSDs (DDMDs) was estimated among 981 union construction ironworkers by a telephone-administered questionnaire and medical examinations respectively. The prevalence of self-reported MSD symptoms was high for the lower back (56%), wrist/hands/fingers (40%), knees (39%) and shoulders (36%). The most common DDMDs were tendonitis (19%), ruptured disk in the back (18%), bursitis in the shoulder (15%) and carpal tunnel syndrome (12%). Generally, the prevalence of DDMDs and MSD symptoms increased with duration of employment. The effect of prior injury was also consistently high. Among workers without prior injuries, MSD symptoms were more frequent for the lower back in structural ironwork, and for the upper extremity in concrete reinforcement ironwork. These findings suggest that some musculoskeletal morbidity in construction ironworkers may be work-related and thus preventable. (104941)
CIS 06-469 Train drivers' sleep and alertness during short relay operations. Lamond N., Darwent D., Dawson D., Applied Ergonomics, May 2005, Vol.36, No.3, p.313-318. Illus. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: Within Australia, there has been a recent increase in relay working in rail transport operations. To address concerns about the amount of sleep by drivers in relay vans and resulting potential deficits in alertness, the current study assessed the sleep behaviour and alertness of 15 train drivers working short (<48h) relay operations. In total, drivers obtained 8-12h of sleep during the relay trip, which took approximately 40h. Overall, they reported that they felt more alert following each sleep period. Drivers were able to sustain attention during the 10-min vigilance tasks administered before and after each shift. These findings suggest that the amount of sleep obtained in crew vans during short relay operations is sufficient to maintain alertness during the trip. The importance of scheduling shifts to maximize the number of sleep opportunities between 10 pm and 7 am is emphasized. (104978)
CIS 06-470 Work-related disorders of the upper limb in female workers using orbital sanders. Bovenzi M., Della Vedova A., Nataletti P., Alessandrini B., Poian T., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2005, Vol.78, No.4, p.303-310. 49 ref. (In English) Internet: This case-control study of the prevalence of vascular, neurological and musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb involved a group of 100 women performing either mechanical or hand sanding in the furniture industry and a control group of 100 female office workers. All participants underwent a medical interview and a complete physical investigation. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of Raynaud's phenomenon between the furniture workers and the controls, while the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), peripheral sensorineural disturbances and upper-limb musculoskeletal complaints was significantly greater in the furniture workers. A CTS was clinically diagnosed in 19% of the furniture workers and 8% of the controls. Findings suggest a significant association between occupational use of vibratory tools and soft-tissue disorders in the upper limbs of female workers. (104893)
CIS 06-471 A checklist for the ergonomic evaluation of nonpowered hand tools. Schneider S., Dababneh A., Lowe B., Krieg E., Kong Y.K., Waters T., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2004, Vol.1, No.12, p.D135-D145. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: A simple 16-item checklist developed to evaluate nonpowered hand tools for basic features related to good ergonomic tool design is presented. The reliability of the checklist questions was assessed in a study in which 14 ergonomists and 126 carpenters evaluated 18 typical hand tools. Agreement among the carpenters and ergonomists was high for most of the checklist items. However, a few questions resulted in relatively low agreement, indicating that the criterion was not explicit or that users had difficulty identifying whether the tool satisfied the particular criterion. The majority of the 18 hand tools evaluated were considered to be lacking in several highly important ergonomic design features. Additional studies are being conducted to make appropriate revisions to the checklist criteria based on quantitative measures of musculoskeletal loading. (104793)
CIS 06-472 EU's requirements for ergonomics. (Russian: Ėrgonomičeskie trebovanija v ES) Lehtelä J., Barents - Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, 2005, Vol.8, No.1, p.20-21 (English); p.22-24 (Russian). 2 ref. (In English, Russian) Internet: This article discusses the main requirements of the European Union with respect to ergonomics, expressed through Directives 89/391/EEC (see CIS 89-1401), 89/655/EEC (see CIS 90-357), 90/269/EEC (see CIS 90-1101), 90/270/EEC (see CIS 90-1069) and 98/37/EC (see CIS 99-29). Contents: health and safety at the workplace; safety of machinery; ergonomic standards. (104829)
CIS 06-473 Ergonomics. Scott P.A., Yisa M.G., McNeill M., Rongo L.M.B., Mutetwa B., African Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Apr. 2005, Vol.15, No.1, p.4-19. Illus. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: Collection of articles on ergonomics of relevance to African countries. Contents: field and laboratory ergonomic investigations in South Africa; ergonomics in small-scale grain mills in Nigeria; ergonomics in post-harvest agro-processing in Ghana; state of awareness of ergonomic principles among workers in small-scale industries in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; ergonomic hazards in the cotton spinning industry in Zimbabwe. (104830)
CIS 06-474 The effect of wrist rests and forearm support during keyboard and mouse use. Cook C., Burgess-Limerick R., Papalia S., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, May 2004, Vol.33, No.5, p.463-472. 50 ref. (In English) Internet: Wrist rests are used widely in the workplace during keyboard operations and are increasingly being incorporated into keyboard design. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of wrist rest use on wrist posture during forearm support. A laboratory-based experimental study involving 15 subjects was conducted to examine muscle activity and wrist postures during keyboard and mouse tasks in each of two conditions: wrist rest and no wrist rest. There were no significant differences for right wrist flexion/extension between use of a wrist rest and no wrist rest for keyboard or mouse use. Left wrist extension was significantly higher without a wrist rest than with a wrist rest during keyboard use. No differences with respect to use of a wrist rest were found for the left or right hand for ulnar deviation for keyboard or mouse use. There were no differences in muscle activity between the test conditions for keyboard use. (104834)
CIS 06-475 A survey of repetitiveness assessment methodologies for hand-intensive tasks. You H., Kwon O., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Apr. 2005, Vol.35, No.4, p.353-360. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature review surveyed measures, measurement methods, and analysis techniques used for assessing the repetitiveness of hand-intensive tasks. Repetitiveness measures were classified in terms of dimensional type (cycle time and frequency) and analysis scope (work cycle, body region and force exertion). It was found that frequency measures were used more than cycle time measures and hand/wrist movement frequency was used most often. Measurement methods were grouped into objective and subjective methods, and analysis techniques were classified into statistical and spectral techniques. The survey findings may be used for the selection of an appropriate methodology for repetitiveness assessment in the workplace. (104837)
CIS 06-476 Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among orthodontists in Alberta. Newell T.M., Kumar S., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Feb. 2004, Vol.33, No.2, p.99-107. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: In a survey of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among dental professionals, a standardized Nordic questionnaire was mailed out to all registered orthodontists in Alberta, Canada. There was a 52.4% response rate from a sample of 61. Results showed low back trouble to be the most prevalent MSD (59%), followed by neck (56%) and shoulder trouble (47%). There were no significant differences in MSD prevalence between men and women and no correlations existed between age, years of work and number of hours of practice per week. It is suggested that further attention should be directed towards risk factors and ergonomic intervention. (104839)
CIS 06-477 Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and back injury in ambulance officers. Jones A.Y.M., Lee R.Y.W., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2005, Vol.78, No.4, p.332-336. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: A questionnaire on back pain was addressed to Hong Kong ambulance workers who performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Analysis of the 318 completed questionnaires showed that almost 60% of the respondents complained of always experiencing back pain during CPR, while 36% experienced it sometimes. Only 4.5% had no experience of back discomfort during CPR. 24% respondents suffered back injury, of whom 62% considered the cause of their back injury to be related to CPR delivery. Nearly 50% of respondents reported that it was difficult to maintain balance and concurrently deliver CPR while travelling in the ambulance or when the patient was being transported. Results suggest that there is a need to review the support given to ambulance workers to ensure safe administration of CPR, particularly during ambulance transport. (104895)
CIS 06-478 Physical limitations and musculoskeletal complaints associated with work in unusual or restricted postures: A literature review. Gallagher S., Journal of Safety Research, 2005, Vol.36, No.1, p.51-61. Illus. 50 ref. (In English) Internet: Workers such as underground miners, aircraft baggage handlers, plumbers, agricultural workers and mechanics are often required to adopt postures such as kneeling, stooping, squatting or lying down for significant periods of the workday. A literature search was performed on the physical capabilities of workers in these postures and the musculoskeletal epidemiology associated with these postures. It was found that work in unusual and restricted postures was associated with significantly higher rates of musculoskeletal complaints compared to workers not adopting these postures (Odds Ratios ranging from 1.13 to 13). Some studies suggested a dose-response relationship, with longer exposures leading to increased musculoskeletal complaints. Physical strength and psychophysical lifting capacity vary significantly as unusual or restricted postures are adopted, with lower lifting capacities evident in the kneeling, squatting, and lying positions. (104923)
CIS 06-479 Anthropometric study of Portuguese workers. Barroso M.P., Arezes P.M., da Costa L.G., Miguel A.S., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, May 2005, Vol.35, No.5, p.401-410. Illus. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: This study describes a procedure for collecting anthropometric data for Portuguese adult workers and the development of an anthropometric database. 891 individuals aged between 17 and 65 years were measured (399 female and 492 male). A set of 24 static anthropometric measures plus body weight was obtained for each individual. Results suggest that the procedure adopted is valid for anthropometric data acquisition. Additionally, the statistical analysis carried out on the data show that some statistical parameters, such as the variation and correlation coefficients, are within expectations and comparable to those of other populations. (104971)
CIS 06-480 A direct observation instrument for the assessment of nurses' patient transfer technique (DINO). Johnsson C., Kjellberg K., Kjellberg A., Lagerström M., Applied Ergonomics, Nov. 2004, Vol.35, No.6, p.591-601. Illus. 37 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this project was to develop and test a direct observation instrument to assess the work technique of nursing personnel during patient transfers. The instrument consists of 16 items divided into the three phases of a transfer: the preparation, performance and result phases. To quantify the assessments, a scoring system was developed, giving an overall score for each transfer, depending on the level of risk to musculoskeletal health and safety. Four observers assessed 45 patient transfers at hospital wards using this instrument. Results showed that the inter-observer reliability and criterion-related validity of the instrument were satisfactory. (104974)
CIS 06-481 An observation instrument for the description and evaluation of patient transfer technique. Warming S., Juul-Kristensen B., Ebbehøj N.E., Schibye B., Applied Ergonomics, Nov. 2004, Vol.35, No.6, p.603-614. Illus. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of an observation instrument for patient transfer. The instrument, which consisted of 23 items, was evaluated on five different patient transfer tasks by four observers. Instrument validity was evaluated by testing whether the instrument could detect a difference between the use of a self-chosen and a recommended transfer technique. Furthermore, calculated compression values at L4-L5 were compared with the weighted score for the different transfer technique situations. Eleven items were reliable, nine items deserved further attention and three items were not reliable. The weighted score was significantly higher for the recommended transfer technique situations and an association between the weighted score and the calculated compression values was observed. (104975)
CIS 06-482 Workload of window cleaners using ladders differing in rung separation. Hoozemans M.J.M., de Looze M.P., Kingma I., Reijneveld K.C.N., de Korte E.M., van der Grinten M.P., van Dieën J.H., Applied Ergonomics, May 2005, Vol.36, No.3, p.275-282. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was to examined energetic workload, perceived exertion, perceived discomfort, safety and mechanical load at lower limb joints among window cleaners during usage of extension ladders with 30 and 35cm rung separation. Eleven healthy male professional window cleaners participated in this study. No significant differences between the two rung separations were observed for the energetic workload. Results concerning the perceived exertion, discomfort, and safety indicate that 35cm rung separation is preferred, while the mechanical load at the hip, knee, and ankle during ascending and descending the ladder favours the 30cm rung separation. Overall, a 35cm rung separation is marginally favourable. (104977)
CIS 06-483 Concordance between VDU-users' ratings of comfort and perceived exertion with experts' observations of workplace layout and working postures. Lindegård A., Karlberg C., Tornqvist E.W., Toomingas A., Hagberg M., Applied Ergonomics, May 2005, Vol.36, No.3, p.319-325. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to evaluate agreement between VDU-users' ratings of comfort and perceived exertion with ergonomists' observations of workplace layout, exertion and postures. The study population consisted of 853 symptom-free subjects. Data on perceived comfort and exertion were collected by questionnaire. Data concerning workplace layout and working postures were collected during observations by an ergonomist. Concordance between subjective ratings and job observations were reasonably good. Ratings of comfort and perceived exertion could therefore be used as a cost-efficient and user-friendly method for practitioners to identify exposures to poor workplace layout and poor working postures. (104979)
CIS 06-484 Metabolic cost and subjective assessment during operation of a rotary tiller with and without an operator's seat. Tiwari P.S., Mehta C.R., Varshney A.C., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Apr. 2005, Vol.35, No.4, p.361-369. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to quantify the reduction in drudgery when an operator's seat was fitted as an attachment to a rotary power tiller to eliminate the need to walk behind the tiller. Heart rate and oxygen consumption rate of the subjects were measured at three levels of forward speed under actual field conditions using an ambulatory metabolic measurement system. It was observed that the attachment of an operator's seat to the power tiller reduced human energy expenditure by 16.7-28.6%. Subjective discomfort was also reduced. It is concluded that the provision of an operator's seat would increase the comfort and work output of the operator. (104838)
CIS 06-485 Stress testing in the medical evaluation for hazardous materials duty: Results and consequences in three groups of candidates. Raymond L.W., Barringer T.A., Konen J.C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2005, Vol.47, No.5, p.493-502. 57 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to determine the reliability of graded exercise testing and other methods for evaluating workers' aptitude for work with hazardous materials. An analysis was conducted of prior and current records of exercise testing, medical examinations, blood tests, chest radiographs, spirometry, and audiometry in 190 candidates. Seven candidates were disapproved by history and/or physical examination, while 21 others were deferred for marked hypertension and/or ST depression ≥2mm induced by exercise testing. (104964)
CIS 06-486 Development of a measuring instrument for quantifying trunk postures and displacements at the workplace. (French: Développement d'un instrument de mesure pour quantifier les postures et les déplacements du tronc en milieu de travail) Plamondon A., Delisle A., Larue C., Desjardins P., McFadden D., Larivière C., Gagnon D., Imbeau D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. xi, 70p. Illus. 47 ref. + CD-ROM. Price: CAD 10.70. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-551-22760-7 (In French) Internet: The exact causes of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are still not fully understood. It is believed that they may have a mechanical origin, resulting either from a sudden overload that exceeds the capacities of the tissues, or from a repeated load that causes weakness over the long term. However, little information exists on the relationship between exposure to mechanical loads and MSDs owing to the difficulty in finding appropriate measuring instruments. The objective of this project was to develop a device capable of quantifying workers' trunk postures and displacements during prolonged tasks in real-life working conditions and to evaluate its reliability. Findings are discussed and further research work aimed at improving the performance of the instrument is proposed. (104753)
CIS 06-487 Feasibility study for the integration of OHS and ergonomics into the PVA-Kaizen approach. (French: Etude de faisabilité en vue d'intégrer la SST et l'ergonomie à l'approche PVA-Kaizen) Toulouse G., Nastasia I., Imbeau D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2005. vii, 77p. Illus. 37 ref. Price: CAD 8.56. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 2-89631-006-1 (In French) Internet: This study surveyed the feasibility of integrating the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and other occupational safety and health (OSH) problems into the PVA (value-added production) Kaizen approach, by focusing on ergonomic interventions. Results of interviews indicate that directors of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and consultants in continual improvement are interested in integrating OSH prevention into the PVA-Kaizen approach, although methods of integration vary. The company's experience in workers' participation in work design and in the management of continuous improvement should be taken into account. (104756)
CIS 06-488 Workload, stress and psychosocial factors as hazards for musculoskeletal disorders. Macdonald W., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2004, Vol.20, No.1, p.37-47. Illus. 53 ref. (In English) Internet: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) resulting from work-related cumulative trauma continue to constitute a substantial problem in many workplaces. It is argued that current countermeasures address only one part of the problem because they usually fail to take adequate account of the important role of psychosocial and psychological stress factors as MSD risk factors. The nature and role of these risk factors are described in terms of an ergonomics model of work-related MSD risk. Key elements of the model are job demands, psychosocial factors, mental workload and stress. The empirical basis for this model is outlined, and the findings of studies on physiological mechanisms by which stress can increase the risk of MSDs are discussed. Based on this model, more effective management strategies to control non-physical MSD risk factors are identified. (104803)
CIS 06-489 Workplace stress, lifestyle and social factors as correlates of back pain: A representative study of the German working population. Schneider S., Schmitt H., Zoller S., Schiltenwolf M., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2005, Vol.78, No.4, p.253-269. 87 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of back pain in the German working population and to examine the relationship between back pain and workplace stresses, lifestyle and social factors. Data from a questionnaire survey and from medical examinations of a cross-section of the German working population were analysed. The prevalence of back pain in the previous week and previous year was 34% and 60% respectively. The odds ratios were significantly higher in women, persons of lower socioeconomic status, married and depressed persons and non-athletes. Carrying heavy loads or maintaining a single working posture were the most significant work-related correlates of back pain for both men and women, while environmental stress and psychological stress correlated significantly with back pain in men only. (104891)
CIS 06-490 The link in the strain. Devereux J., Safety and Health Practitioner, June 2005, Vol.23, No.6, p.41-44. Illus. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: This article summarizes the findings of a three-year study on the link between stress and musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) and describes a six-point approach that could enable organizations to limit the occurrence of both problems. The study involved a series of questionnaire surveys, interviews, video recordings and clinical examinations. Findings show that organizations need to focus on employees and have systems in place to react to the effects and causes of excessive physical and mental stressors. Recommendations aimed at helping reduce work-related stress and MSDs are presented in the form of a six-point action plan. (104926)
CIS 06-491 Human factors in maintenance: Impact on aircraft mishap frequency and severity. Krulak D.C., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, May 2004, Vol.75, No.5, p.429-432. Illus. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: This study aimed to demonstrate that certain specific maintenance-related human factors are significantly correlated with both mishap frequency and severity in aviation. Using information from the Maintenance Error Information Management System (MEIMS), 1,016 aircraft mishaps caused by human factors in maintenance were examined. Frequency analysis was used to determine the most common human factors seen in aircraft mishaps. Logistic regression techniques were used to describe the relationship between mishap severity and human factors. Inadequate supervision, attention or memory errors, and judgment or decision errors were the factors found most often in aircraft mishaps. It was concluded that emphasis on training and education might reduce the overall number of mishaps, while concentrating resources on design, adaptability, flexibility, lighting and workplace layout might decrease the number of severe mishaps. (104780)
CIS 06-492 Designing and evaluating a human factors investigation tool (HFIT) for accident analysis. Gordon R., Flin R., Mearns K., Safety Science, Mar. 2005, Vol.43, No.3, p.147-171. Illus. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: In an attempt to improve the investigation of the human factors causes of accidents in the United Kingdom offshore industry, a Human Factors Investigation Tool (HFIT) was developed. It collects four types of human factors information: action errors occurring immediately prior to the incident; error recovery mechanisms, in the case of near misses; thought processes which lead to the action error; underlying causes. The tool was evaluated on the basis of an inter-rater reliability assessment, usability assessment, case studies and an established evaluation method. Although there is a need for further validation and analysis of HFIT using more realistic accident scenario exercises, it was found to be useful for the development of remedial actions, one of the main objectives of the tool. (104787)
CIS 06-493 An explicative model of unsafe work behavior. Seo D.C., Safety Science, Mar. 2005, Vol.43, No.3, p.187-211. Illus. 89 ref. (In English) Internet: This study attempted to construct and test an explicative model of unsafe work behaviour to reveal the mechanisms by which selected contributory factors influence the safety behaviour of individuals. The effects of perceived safety climate, hazard level, work pressure, risk and barriers to safety were studied among 722 workers in 102 different locations of a United States grain company using a questionnaire survey. The results indicated that perceived safety climate was the best predictor of unsafe work behaviour. It is suggested that improvements in safety climate would decrease the level of perceived work pressure, which in turn would reduce perceived risk and perceived barriers to safety, thus encouraging safer behaviour. (104788)
CIS 06-494 Work stress and attentional difficulties: An initial study on burnout and cognitive failures. van der Linden D., Keijsers G.P.J., Eling P., van Schaijk R., Work and Stress, Jan.-Mar 2005, Vol.19, No.1, p.23-36. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: The most important characteristic of burnout is mental exhaustion. Burned-out individuals also often complain about attention difficulties. This study used a cognitive failure questionnaire to assess the level of attention difficulties in daily life. Performance on tasks of sustained attention and response inhibition was also measured using the SART and the Bourdon-Wiersma tests. Three groups were compared: a group of 13 burned out individuals who stopped working due to their symptoms and sought treatment; 16 teachers at a vocational training institute who reported high levels of burnout symptoms but continued to work; and 14 teachers from the same institute who reported no burnout symptoms. The level of burnout symptoms was found to be significantly related to the number of cognitive failures in daily life, and to inhibition errors and performance variability in the tasks requiring attention. (104801)
CIS 06-495 Human factors analysis and classification system applied to civil aircraft accidents in India. Gaur D., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, May 2005, Vol.76, No.5, p.501-505. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to assess the practicability of applying the of Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) to civil aircraft accidents in India on the basis of existing investigation reports. Accident investigation reports for the period 1990-99 were scrutinized. In all, 83 accidents occurred during this period, of which 48 accident reports were evaluated in this study. One or more human factors contributed to 37 of the 48 accidents. The commonest factor was "skill based errors" followed by "decision errors". Violations of laid down rules were contributory in 16 cases. Preconditions for unsafe acts were seen in 23 of the 48 cases. "Organizational influences" contributed to a fairly large number of accidents (52.1%). These results are consistent with larger studies of accidents in the United States. (104810)
CIS 06-496 The effect of a cognitive and a physical stress-reducing programme on psychological complaints. Van Rhenen W., Blonk R.W.B., van der Klink J.J.L., van Dijk F.J.H., Schaufeli W.B., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Mar. 2005, Vol.78, No.2, p.139-148. Illus. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of two work stress management programmes. One programme was a cognition-focused programme, while the other was a newly developed intervention combining physical exercise and relaxation. It was hypothesised that the new intervention would be more effective in reducing psychological complaints than the cognitive intervention. Both programmes consisted of four sessions over a period of 10 weeks. Employees of a Dutch telecommunications company were given a questionnaire on their perceived level of stress. Among those declaring high stress, 130 were selected to participate in the present study. It was found that both interventions revealed a positive impact on psychological complaints, burnout and fatigue, both at short-term and at 6-month follow-up. The interventions were equally effective on psychological complaints, burnout and fatigue. (104898)
CIS 06-497 Occupational violence/bullying in public service organisations. Mayhew C., McCarthy P., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Feb. 2005, Vol.21, No.1, p.33-42. 48 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, data on occupational violence and bullying were collected by means of face-to-face interviews with workers involved in juvenile detention, health care, tertiary education and public housing. Items included the number of bullying events experienced during the previous 12 months, characteristics of the alleged perpetrators, perceptions of higher-risk locations and situations, and suggested strategies for prevention. Findings are discussed and several recommendations are proposed. (104952)
CIS 06-498 Psychosocial occupational health issues in contemporary police work: A review of research evidence. Smith D., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 2005, Vol.21, No.3, p.217-228. 100 ref. (In English) Internet: Police officers are regularly exposed to a wide variety of occupational hazards including physical assault, work-related trauma, occupational stress, reduced physical health, alcohol abuse, musculoskeletal disorders and biohazards. This article provides an analysis of psychosocial occupational health issues in contemporary police work, with a particular focus on the situation in Australia. The study indicates that law enforcement is a high stress occupation when compared with other jobs, and the work tasks and job description of police work have become increasingly difficult over time. (104956)
CIS 06-499 Perceived job stress of women workers in diverse manufacturing industries. Lu J.L., Human Factors and Ergonomics in Manufacturing, Summer 2005, Vol.15, No.3, p.275-291. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: An investigation of the impact of organizational factors on perceived job stress among women workers in the garment and electronics industries in the Philippines was undertaken. The sample included 23 establishments with 630 women respondents. Questionnaires, walkthrough surveys of the industries, and interviews were carried out. Workplace factors studied included job content, the nature of tasks, job autonomy, hazard exposure and management and supervisory styles. Statistical analysis highlighted the interactions among the organizational factors. It was found that workers experienced job stress when they were subjected to low job autonomy, poor work quality, close monitoring and high workload. (104960)
CIS 06-500 An overview of selected references related to SOLVE. Caborn J., Gold D., InFocus Programme on Safety and Health at Work and the Environment (SafeWork), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Mar. 2003. 67 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey reviews selected studies on psychosocial issues in the workplace. The five main issues considered are stress, violence, alcohol and drug use, HIV/AIDS and tobacco consumption. The impact of these issues on the workplace is outlined and their interrelationships are discussed in detail. The review supports the integrated approach adopted in the SOLVE methodology for the management of psychosocial issues in the workplace. (104883)
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