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ILO-CIS Bulletin 2007/04CIS 07-751 --- CIS 07-1000 Training materials and practical informationCIS 07-751 Act now to avoid occupational cancers in the future. (French: Agir aujourd'hui pour éviter les cancers professionnels de demain) Certin J.F., Guibert A., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Oct. 2006. 15p. Illus. Price: EUR 4.10. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1397-0 (In French) Internet: Cancers are the second most important cause of mortality in France and account for approximately 150,000 deaths each year. More than 10,000 cancers each year are attributable to occupational factors. Occupational cancers are avoidable. In many instances, it is possible to replace hazardous products or processes by others that are less hazardous, and to reduce the risks to workers through improved protective measures. This booklet presents a concise overview of the most common carcinogens, the sectors of activity involved, the routes of exposure, the labelling of carcinogens and protective measures. (106861)
CIS 07-752 Occupational safety and health - Basics of occupational safety and health in the construction sector. (Spanish: Prevención - Nivel básico de prevención en la construcción) Fundación laboral de la construcción, Tornapunta Ediciones S.L., Av. Alberto Alcocer 46 B Pa 7, 28016 Madrid, Spain, 2004. 299p. Illus., ISBN 84-9339-930-2 (In Spanish) Internet: This training manual for construction workers presents the basics of occupational safety and health (OSH). It is divided into ten teaching units covering seven aspects of occupational safety and health: basic concepts and OSH regulatory framework; hazards related to conditions of work and their prevention; basic systems for controlling hazards; hazards related to the work environment; specific hazards in the construction sector; basics of OSH management; first aid. (106789)
CIS 07-753 Occupational safety and health - Safety and health coordinator on construction sites. Volumes I, II and III. (Spanish: Prevención - Coordinador de seguridad y salud en las obras de construcción. Volumen I, II y III) Fundación laboral de la construcción, Tornapunta Ediciones S.L., Av. Alberto Alcocer 46 B Pa 7, 28016 Madrid, Spain, 2005. Vol. I: 430p. Illus; Vol.II: 474p. Illus; Vol. III: 462p. Illus. 241 ref., ISBN 84-96510-00-X (In Spanish) Internet: This training manual in three volumes is aimed at persons responsible for coordinating occupational safety and health (OSH) on construction sites. It is divided into 57 training modules grouped under five themes: basic concepts and OSH regulatory framework; OSH management; planning of OSH on construction sites; general techniques for hazard analysis, control and evaluation; OSH promotion. A glossary is also included. (106790)
Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisualsCIS 07-754 Wearing PPE: Removing the barriers. (French: Port d'EPI: lever les obstacles) Durcy M, Richard A.M., Prévention BTP, Nov. 2006, No.90, p.39-50. Illus. (In French) Internet: This collection of articles discusses factors influencing the wearing of personal protective equipment (PPE) on construction sites. Forcing workers to wear PPE correctly may be counter-productive. Given the various physiological and psychological barriers, awareness campaigns may be more constructive. Other factors include the advances achieved by equipment manufacturers and occupational medicine in terms of ergonomics and comfort, as well as in controlling allergies that are sometimes encountered with this type of equipment. (106756)
CIS 07-755 How to choose protective clothing. (French: Comment choisir ses vêtements de protection?) Coune I., Face au risque, Oct. 2006, No.426, p.33-34, 36. Illus. 8 ref. (In French) Internet: Topics addressed in this article on the selection of protective clothing: hazard evaluation; avoiding overprotection; importance of instruction sheets and labels; responsibilities of employers; French and European standards; maintenance of the clothing. (106778)
CIS 07-756 Protection of the eyes and face. (French: La protection des yeux et du visage) Face au risque, Oct. 2006, No.426, p.63-66. Illus. (In French) Internet: Face and eye protectors must comply with safety and health requirements specified in European Directive 89/656/EEC (see CIS 90-385). This information note addresses the characteristics, functions, marking and conditions of use of various types of protectors, including spectacles with temple bars, goggles and welding goggles and masks. It summarizes in tabular form the main risks and eye injuries and includes a buyer's guide for the selection of suitable protectors. (106780)
CIS 07-757 Protective clothing. (French: Vêtements de protection) Vanhoutte H., Catrysse M., Prevent Focus, Nov. 2006,, No.9 p.4-12. Illus. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: This collection of articles on protective clothing provides a general overview of the various types of clothing available and examines Belgian and European legislation and the factors that need to be taken into account for the selection, use and care of protective clothing. It also covers the application of so called "intelligent" textiles based on the integration of electronics into protective clothing. (106992)
CIS 07-758 Practical aspects of controlling subcontractors. (Spanish: La práctica del control de contratistas) Panadés Gella X., Prevención, July-Sep. 2006, No.177, p.6-18. Illus. 4 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: The outsourcing of various activities together with legal requirements covering the prevention of accidents require enterprises to develop efficient prevention programmes for managing the activities of subcontractors. This involves planning the activities and coordinating and communicating closely with the subcontractor, who in turn must comply with the increasingly demanding safety requirements of large and medium-sized enterprises. (106781)
CIS 07-759 All projects involve risks to be managed. (French: Tout projet comporte des risques à gérer) Jacques P., Face au risque, Dec. 2006, No.428, p.15-19. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article presents various approaches, including computer-based tools, available to project managers for analyzing and managing the potential hazards of a project from the initial design to the final production. The experiences of enterprises involved in power distribution, parcel delivery and manufacture of liquefied gases are summarized. (106978)
CIS 07-760 Comment on occupational accidents and safety culture. (French: Des accidents du travail et de la culture de sécurité) Op De Beeck R., Dufrasne D., Prevent Focus, Nov. 2006,, No.9 p.14-17. Illus. 2 ref. (In French) Internet: An in-depth analysis of the causes of accidents attributed to human error reveals that they are mostly due to faulty technical design or to organizational weaknesses. This article discusses the importance of work organization and safety culture in avoiding accidents attributable to human error. (106993)
CIS 07-761 Single document - Review of experiences after 5 years. (French: Document unique - Retour d'expériences 5 ans après) Richez J.P., Ravallec C., Travail et sécurité, Dec. 2006, No.668, p.17-29. Illus. 13 ref. (In French) Internet: This collection of articles reviews the experiences of French enterprises with respect to hazard evaluation five years after the publication of the decree of 5 November 2001 concerning the compilation of a document on evaluating the hazards to the safety and health of workers (see CIS 01-1278), also known as the "single document". Contents: findings of a survey on the implementation of the decree by enterprises; increasing requests for assistance in exposure evaluation received by INRS; findings of a survey on the implementation of the single document by small enterprises in the printing sector; experience of a printing shop and a hospital. (106999)
CIS 07-762 Technical statistics 2004. (French: Statistiques technologiques 2004) Travail et sécurité, Nov. 2006, No.667, p.21-26. Illus. (In French) Internet: In France, the number of accidents in 2004 involving a loss of work days decreased by 4.1% compared to 2003, while that of serious accidents increased by 6.1%. The number of cases of occupational diseases compensated for the first time continued to rise and increased by 6.4% compared to 2003. Commuting accidents decreased by 5.5%. Data are broken down by sector of activity. Occupational accident data are also broken down by cause, and occupational disease data by main class of disease. (106772)
CIS 07-763 Occupational safety and health and the ILO - Principles of ILO-OSH 2001. (French: La santé et la sécurité au travail et l'OIT - Le recueil de principes ILO-OSH 2001) Seillan H., Morvan J., Chaabane S., Préventique-Sécurité, July-Aug. 2006, No.88, p.16-23. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article summarizes the historical development and the principles of the ILO Guidelines on occupational safety and health management systems - ILO-OSH 2001 (see CIS 02-162). The approach is compared with the European approach OHSAS 18001 and both approaches are then discussed with reference to French regulations. (106759)
CIS 07-764 Royal Decree 604/2006 of 19 May amending the Regulations on occupational safety and health services - Critical review. (Spanish: El RD 604/2006, de 19 de mayo, por el que se modifica el Reglamento de los servicios de prevención. Una exposición crítica) Pérez Capitán L., Prevención, July-Sep. 2006, No.177, p.58-83. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This article provides a critical analysis of the main provisions of Spanish Royal Decree 604/2006 amending the Regulations on occupational safety and health (OSH) services, highlighting its shortcomings and gaps. The main aspects discussed include: requirement for integrating OSH activities within the enterprise with the prevention plan; role of external OSH services with respect to enterprise OSH activities; new regulations concerning preventive measures; amendments to the regulations covering OSH management audits; concept of dangerous work; new role of workers' legal representatives. (106785)
CIS 07-765 Global estimates of traditional occupational risks. Takala J., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, 2005, Supl.No.1, p.62-67. Illus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: This study used employment figures, reported fatal accident rates and mortality data on various diseases and injuries together with literature data to compute the rates of occupational accidents and diseases for several countries worldwide. It was estimated that an average of 2.2 million fatalities due to work-related factors occurred worldwide annually. The most significant problems identified were work-related cancer (in particular in industrialized countries), occupational accidents (in rapidly industrializing countries), work-related cardiovascular diseases, work-related communicable diseases (in tropical developing countries) and work-related lung diseases in countries where mining is a major activity. It is estimated that 270 million nonfatal occupational accidents and 160 million work-related diseases occur worldwide every year. (106816)
CIS 07-766 National occupational safety and health programmes that can support safety and health culture at the workplace. Kawakami T., Ujita Y., Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Mar. 2006, Vol.13, No.1, p.4-7. Illus. 2 ref. (In English) Internet: The ILO Global Strategy on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) adopted in 2003 (see CIS 05-54) highlights the building and maintenance of a national preventive safety and health culture as a major objective. A number of programmes were promoted in response, aimed at strengthening national OSH legislation, enforcement and information dissemination. This article describes several such programmes in Asia, involving small enterprises in Mongolia, small coal mines in China, construction sites in Cambodia and work improvement through neighbourhood development (WIND) in the agricultural sector in Vietnam (see CIS 07-818). (106828)
CIS 07-767 Recognizing national culture as a determinant of safety subculture. Suplido-Westergaard M.L., Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Mar. 2006, Vol.13, No.1, p.19-23. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: Safety culture includes the sum of beliefs, attitudes, competencies and behaviours shared by a group, affecting its safety and health. Current discourse on safety culture highlights interactions between persons, jobs and organizational factors. This article discusses the role of national culture in shaping safety culture, taking the example of Filipino migrant workers in Asia. (106830)
CIS 07-768 Wanted! An OSH management system. (French: Recherché! Un système de gestion en SST) Convergence - Revue de gestion de la santé-sécurité, Aug. 2006, Vol.22, No.3, p.3-19 (whole issue). Illus. 6 ref. (In French) Internet: This issue examines occupational safety and health (OSH) management systems. Topics addressed: comment on and comparison of Canadian standard Z1000, United States standard ANSI/AIHA Z10-2005, European standard OHSAS 18001 and international standard ILO-OSH 2001; interview with the OSH officer of an enterprise that adopted OHSAS 18001; reasons for adopting an OSH management system; roles and responsibilities within the enterprise with respect to the implementation of an OSH management system. (106885)
CIS 07-769 Occupational safety and health for men and women. (French: La prévention pour hommes et femmes) Opdebeeck S., Prevent Focus, Oct. 2006, No.8, p.14-18. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article reviews differences between men and women with respect to exposure to occupational hazards, recognizing that genders are not equally represented in the various occupations and professions. Differences in the effects of various risk factors and the implications for occupational safety and health policy are discussed. (106888)
CIS 07-770 Safety and health in Tunisia: 50 years of progress. (French: La santé et la sécurité au travail en Tunisie: 50 ans de réalisations) SST - Santé et Sécurité au Travail, Nov. 2006, No.39, p.3-49 (full issue). Illus. 20 ref. (In French) Internet: This special issue was published to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of occupational safety and health in Tunisia. Articles cover the following topics: history of occupational safety and health (OSH) and occupational medicine in Tunisia; importance of information and communication; workers' medical coverage; reform of social legislation; compensation of occupational diseases and accidents; list of compensated occupational diseases; Tunisian legislation; private occupational safety initiatives; improvements in working conditions; training and scientific research. (106890)
CIS 07-771 Sources of occupational safety and health information. (French: Sources d'information en santé et sécurité au travail) Laborde L., Berlioz B., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, Dec. 2006, No.205, p.59-81. (In French) Internet: This article presents a selection made by INRS of sources of useful information for implementing preventive measures against occupational hazards. It includes sources accessible via the Internet, CD-ROMs, print publications and periodicals. It does not claim to be exhaustive. Priority was given to official and institutional sources, and to sources that are considered particularly authorative, mainly in French. (106983)
CIS 07-772 Statistical bulletin of occupational accidents. (Spanish: Boletín estadístico de accidentes de trabajo) Instituto ecuatoriano de seguridad social (IESS), Unidad informática de la División nacional de riesgos del trabajo, Quito, Ecuador, 1998. 60p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This document presents an overview of the statistical trends of fatal occupational accidents in Ecuador between 1966 and 1994, followed by a more detailed analysis of occupational accidents occurring between 1988 and 1994. Data are presented by year, sector of activity, type of invalidity, region, locality, age group, occupation, time of day and day of the week, cause, type of injury, location of injury, type of accident and causal factor. Accident indicators are also calculated. (106788)
CIS 07-773 Statistics 2002. (French: Statistiques 2002) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2005. 3p. Illus. (Internet document). (In French) Internet: Statistics on occupational accidents, occupational diseases and commuting accidents in France for the year 2002 are presented. Compared to the year 2001, 2002 showed an increase in the number of occupational accidents and a continuation of the trend in the growth of occupational disease cases. This increase was once again related to musculoskeletal diseases. (106910)
CIS 07-774 European legislation on safety and health at the place of work. (French: Le droit européen de la santé et de la sécurité sur les lieux de travail) EUROGIP, 55 rue de la Fédération, 75015 Paris, France, 2006. 28p. (In French) Internet: Contents of this summary document on European occupational safety and health legislation: background on Community legislation; general aspects of Community occupational safety and health legislation; comment on the Framework Directive 89/391/EEC on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work (see CIS 89-1401); provisions of specific Directives. (106768)
CIS 07-775 The single document five years after the decree - Analytical assessment and approaches. (French: Le document unique 5 ans après le décret - Bilan analytique et méthodologies) Delegnes J.C., Bregier G., Giraud T., Editions d'ergonomie, BP 138, 13267 Marseille cedex 08, France, 2006. 152p. Illus. 74 ref. Price: EUR 22.00., ISBN 2-908191-40-7 (In French) Internet: Contents of this publication on the single document for the evaluation of occupational hazards required by French legislation: description of the global approach which includes generating awareness among employees as a function of the objectives set by management and ensuring their participation in the compilation of the single document; methodology; comments of the regional occupational disease insurance fund of Aquitaine and of various occupational hygiene, safety and working conditions committees; description of available computer-based tools. (106872)
CIS 07-776 2004 Series of the quarterly KOSHA safety and health newsletter from Korea. Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, 34-4 Gusan-dong, Bupyeong-gu, Incheon 403-711, Republic of Korea, 2004. p.3-96 (English version), p. 99-175 (Korean version). Illus. (In English, Korean) Internet: This publication consists of a compilation of the quarterly newsletters published by the Korean Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA) during the year 2004. Main topics covered: extended coverage of the hazard warning system for harmful materials; status of 2003 industrial accidents; trends in accident rates; survey of risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders; opening of a lumbago school for workers involved in an industrial accident; preparation of a national crisis management manual; publications, training materials and prevention seminars. (106801)
CIS 07-777 Activity report 2004. (French: Rapport d'activité 2004) 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, 2004. 20p. Illus., ISBN 2-550-443362-4 (fr), ISBN 2-550-443363-2 (en) (In English, French) Internet: Activity report of the Canadian Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST) for 2004. Contents: message from the president and CEO; 2004 in numbers; highlights (activities, training, projects); organizational chart; list of publications. (106802)
CIS 07-778 Effectiveness of economic incentives to improve occupational safety and health. (French: Efficacité des incitations économiques visant à améliorer la sécurité et la santé au travail; Spanish: Eficacia de los incentivos económicos para la mejora de la seguridad y salud en el trabajo) European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Vía 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain, 2004. 8p. Illus. 7 ref., ISBN 92-9191-117-8 (es), ISBN 92-9191-119-4 (en), ISBN 92-9191-120-8 (fr) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: Economic incentives aim to stimulate enterprises to invest in management of occupational safety and health (OSH) by making it more financially attractive. They are potentially strong instruments in driving companies towards safety and health excellence because they reinforce the link with profitability. This issue summarises the discussions at a workshop organized by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, held in Amsterdam, Netherlands, 15-17 September 2004. Contents: types of economic incentive (state subsidies, grants, financing; incentives based on tax systems or tax structures; insurance premium variation); research; objectives of the workshop; examples of incentives used in some EU countries; overall conclusions and perspectives. (106805)
CIS 07-779 The "T-A-C-T-I-C" of recognition. Kam C.C.K., IOSH Hong Kong, W502, Industrial Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2003. 12p. 11. ref. (In English) Internet: This paper was presented to a conference on occupational safety and health held in Hong Kong on 20 November 2003. It argues that management should realize that the environment in which the organization operates is subject to continuous change and development. Serious and dedicated management should ensure that occupational safety and health (OSH) is an integral part of enterprise strategy and that good OSH performance among workers is rewarded. A six-step approach (TACTIC) for rewarding safe behaviour is outlined that aims to be Timely, Authentic, Customized, Tension avoided, Internalized and Characterized. (106835)
CIS 07-780 LACORS annual report 2006. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2006. 7p. (In English) Internet: In 2004, the Health and Safety Commission (HSC), the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and local government representative bodies signed a 'Statement of Intent', setting out a commitment to partnership aiming to make the best use of their joint resources. The main elements of the partnership are now in place. This report presents progress accomplished in various parts of the United Kingdom, together with salient statistics of occupational safety and health for 2006. (106838)
CIS 07-781 Making a world of difference: Global unions at work. White A., ed., International Press Centre, Résidence Palace, Block C, 155 rue de la Loi, Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. vi, 216p. Illus. 15 ref., ISBN 978-90-9021256-2 (In English) Internet: This book examines the work of the Global Union Federations and their campaigns for the promotion of fairness, decent work and social justice. Programmes for confronting the challenges of poverty, education and child labour, gender equality, migration and health, safety and the environment are described. These include activities concerning mine safety in China, ship breaking in India, safety of media staff in conflict zones and the eradication of child labour. Includes a brief survey of the history of international trade unionism and a listing of the Global Union Federations. (106866)
CIS 07-782 Industrial hygiene - Solved problems. (Spanish: Higiene industrial - Problemas resueltos) Bernal Domínguez F., Castejón Vilella E., Cavallé Oller N., Guardino Solà X., Guasch Farràs J., Hernández Calleja A., Luna Mendaza P., Pujol Senovilla L., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo (INSHT), c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2006. 175p. Illus. Price: EUR 22.43., ISBN 84-7425-717-4 (In Spanish) Internet: This publication brings together a series of solutions to specific industrial hygiene problems developed by the INSHT as part of their technical support to enterprises. It includes the mathematical formulae that are most frequently used in industrial hygiene. It addresses the following topics: calculating the average concentration of chemical agents and maximum exposures; limiting the exposure to chemical agents by means of ventilation (dilution and local exhaust); evaluation of noise levels and personal protective equipment; limiting noise levels by means of sound absorption or soundproofing; mechanical vibrations; thermal environment; ionizing radiation. (106894)
CIS 07-783 Social equilibrium manual. (Spanish: Manual de balance social) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. vii, 99p. 14 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: The social equilibrium model is a strategic instrument for evaluating and adopting socially-responsible policies within the enterprise. This booklet presents an updated version of the model proposed in 1998 by the ILO and the National Organization of Enterprises (ANDI) in Colombia. Its aim is to help enterprises initiate a plan for implementing social policies and write a social report. (106895)
CIS 07-784 Decent work in the Americas - Agenda for the Hemisphere, 2006-2015. (Spanish: Trabajo decente en las Américas - La agenda hemisférica, 2006-2015) Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean, Las Flores 275, San Isidro, Lima 27, Peru, 2006. 67p. Illus., ISBN 978-92-2-318988-4 (In Spanish) Internet: This booklet consists of an abridged and simplified version of the report analyzed under CIS 06-792. It describes the main challenges facing the promotion of decent work in the Americas together with the policies to be implemented, and specifies the agenda for the western hemisphere for the period 2006 to 2015. It is aimed at a wide readership among all parties involved in social affairs in that part of the world. (106896)
CIS 07-785 Survey on working conditions 2005. (Spanish: Encuesta de condiciones de trabajo 2005) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2006. 71p. Illus. Price: EUR 22.43., ISBN 84-7425-720-4 (In Spanish) Internet: This document presents the findings of a survey on the conditions of work in Spain carried out in 2005. It aims to analyse the world of work with respect to the prevention of occupational hazards. Contents: survey concept; comparison of the data with that of the 5th national survey on working conditions; occupational safety and health organization; occupational safety and health activities; safety conditions; work environment; workplace design; physical workload; mental workload; psychosocial factors; health hazards; subjective assessment of working conditions. (106899)
CIS 07-786 Maintenance - Prevention of occupational hazards. (French: Maintenance - Prévention des risques professionnels) Barbat L., Blaise J.C., Bonnaud C., Caillet J.P., Grusenmeyer C., Pichot C., Pomian J.L., Tierno O., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2006. 4p. Illus. 7 ref. (In French) Internet: Presented in tabular form, this practical safety information sheet is a complement to the booklet entitled "Maintenance: hazardous activities" (see CIS 06-186). It describes the essential steps of the maintenance process as well as activities before and after the maintenance intervention itself. For each of the steps involved, the information sheet provides examples of the possible problems that may be encountered during maintenance work and proposes measures for their prevention. (106774)
CIS 07-787 Primer on the occupational safety and health standards (as amended). Department of Labor and Employment, Muralla St. cor. Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, 1002, Manila Philippines, 1999. 86p. (In English) Internet: This document provides an introduction to the Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) which is the body of rules and regulations covering safety and health in Philippine workplaces. It presents an overview of each rule, introduces new rules and, in case where details or specifics are needed, refers the reader to appropriate portions of the OSHS. (106856)
CIS 07-788 Methodologies available to trade unions for identifying hazards and dangers at the place of work and in the environment. (Spanish: Metodologías sindicales para la identificación de riesgos y peligros en el lugar de trabajo y el medio ambiente) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2000. CD-ROM. (In Spanish) Internet: This CD-ROM contains resources for the training of trade union trainers in the identification of occupational and environmental hazards. It was developed within the framework of an ILO project and includes a trainer's guide, three training modules (subjective assessment of working conditions and the environment, risk factors of harmful effects and risk mapping, module for the systematic analysis of safety, health and the environment related to work) and a video clip on the vegetable packaging industry. It also includes many additional sources of information and is suitable for distance learning. (106892)
CIS 07-789 International labour standards electronic library ILSE 2006. (French: Bibliothèque électronique des normes internationales du travail ILSE 2006; Spanish: Biblioteca electrónica de documentos sobre normas internacionales del trabajo ILSE 2006) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2006. CD-ROM (minimum requirements: MS Windows 95, 12-speed CD-ROM drive, MS Explorer 4.0 or Netscape 4.0 or higher, screen resolution 800x600 pixels). Price: CHF 15.00. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: ILSE is an electronic reference library of basic international labour standards and other documents, including ILO Conventions, Recommendations, Constitution, Standing Orders of the International Labour Conference, General Surveys, the Digest of Decisions of the Committee on Freedom of Association, the Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, Global Reports, and recent publications on International Labour Standards. A selection of documents is also available in German, Arabic, Chinese, Portuguese and Russian. (106853)
CIS 07-790 XVIIth world congress on safety and health at work: Prevention in a globalized world - Success through partnerships. National Safety Council, 1121 Spring Lake Drive, Itasca, Illinois 60143-3201, USA, 2005. CD-ROM. (In English) Internet: CD-ROM of the XVIIth World Congress on Safety and Health at Work held in Orlando, Florida, USA, 18-22 September 2005. It contains the manuscripts of the communications and posters presented at the Congress in MS Word format (and in some cases in PDF format). The themes of the 2005 World Congress included: impact of globalization - opportunities and risks; leadership in safety and health; challenges in a changing world of work; prevention is a value in a globalized world. (106851)
CIS 07-791 Classification of occupations and qualifications - Groups of occupations - Manual for using the database. (Spanish: Clasificación profesional y cualificaciones - Familias profesionales - Manuel de uso de base de datos) Escuela Julian Besteiro de UGT, Azcona 53, 28028 Madrid, Spain, Mar. 2000. CD-ROM for Windows 95/98. (In Spanish) Internet: This CD-ROM contains a collection of documents related to the project entitled "Classification of occupations and qualifications" set up by the executive commission of the General Union of Spanish workers (CEC-UGT). It provides access to a methodology for the classification of occupations in the various sectors and a description of the qualifications necessary for specific jobs. It also includes a database with examples illustrating its use. (106891)
CIS 07-792 Lung function among non-smoking wheat flour mill workers. Meo S.A., Al-Drees A.M., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 3rd quarter 2005, Vol.18, No.3, p.259-264. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to assess the effects of flour dust on lung function. It involved 46 male workers at a Pakistani flour mill and a similar number of male control subjects. All participants were male, non-smokers, aged between 18 and 65 years and matched for age, height, weight and socioeconomic status. Significant reductions in the values of forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in one second, peak expiratory flow and maximum voluntary ventilation were observed in wheat flour mill workers relative to their matched controls. Based on the results of the present study, it is concluded that the flour mill workers in Pakistan are at an increased risk of developing occupationally related pulmonary function impairments. The results suggest that there is an urgent need to improve dust control measures and the health status of workers. (106817)
CIS 07-793 Occupational cancers. (French: Les cancers professionnels) Mongalvy M., ed., Réalité Prévention, June 2004, No.5, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In French) Internet: Newsletter of the French National Occupational Safety and Health Institute (INRS) exploring the issue of occupational cancers. Topics addressed: need for epidemiological studies on occupational cancers; need to take carcinogenic risks into account and plan actions aimed at identifying and managing carcinogens; controlling the hazards by elimination or substitution of carcinogenic substances; positive experience of a woodworking enterprise with a dust exhaust ventilation system in the workshops; harmonization of classification and labelling of carcinogens at the European level; results of an epidemiological study on mortality in a steel plant. (106905)
CIS 07-794 Chronic low back pain: breaking the vicious circle!. (French: Lombalgies chroniques: rompre le cercle vicieux!) Barruyer C., Prévention BTP, Nov. 2006, No.90, p.56-58. Illus. (In French) Internet: Low back pain affects 43% of building industry workers compared to 27% of white-collar workers. Job tasks that involve repetitive work, stress or high mechanical loads on the spinal column constitute risk factors of low back pain. This article underscores the importance of early screening to avoid the low back pain from evolving into the chronic phase. Other topics covered include physiotherapy, layout of workplaces, training in adopting good work postures and using surgery only as a last resort. (106757)
CIS 07-795 Why are the occupational causes of cancer so rarely recognized?. (French: Pourquoi l'origine professionnelle des cancers est-elle si rarement reconnue?) Ouellet F., Médecin du Québec, Oct. 2005, Vol.40, No.10, p.99-100. 2 ref. (In French) Internet: Occupational exposures are believed to be responsible for six to ten percent of deaths by cancer among the working population, which corresponds to approximately 2000 to 3500 deaths annually in Quebec. However, only some 40 cancer deaths are recognized each year as being due to occupational factors. This article analyses the possible reasons for the gap between estimated and recognized cases, criticizes the current Canadian system of occupational disease compensation and proposes that the occupational nature of a disease be established by an independent scientific commission. (106874)
CIS 07-796 The MSD issue. (French: Le phénomène des TMS) Mongalvy M., ed., Réalité Prévention, May 2004, No.4, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In French) Internet: Newsletter of the French National Occupational Safety and Health Institute (INRS) exploring the issue of musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs), which are on the increase in France. Topics addressed: viewpoint of a physician on the causes of MSDs and possible actions for creating awareness at the national level; role of the INRS in the prevention of MSDs; importance of taking into account changes in working conditions and work organization when developing preventive measures; approach for the prevention of MSDs initiated at the national level by the fisheries sector in France; MSDs in the United Kingdom (number of cases, preventive measures, compensation); generating awareness among workers and workers' training. (106904)
CIS 07-797 Occupational risks for nasal cancer in Sweden. Hemelt M., Granström C., Hemminki K., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2004, Vol.46, No.10, p.1033-1040. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: The Swedish Family Cancer Database was used to calculate standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for nasal cancer (NC) among 52 occupational groups. SIRs were adjusted for age and socioeconomic status. Among 739 male cases, significantly elevated SIRs for nasal adenocarcinoma were observed in woodworkers, teachers and fishermen. In woodworkers, the risk increased with a longer occupational history of exposure. Electrical workers had a significant elevated risk for squamous cell carcinoma. Among 182 female cases, significantly elevated SIRs were observed among glass and ceramic industry workers. The study identified some known risk occupations and suggested several new ones. (106927)
CIS 07-798 Occupational asthma in New South Wales (NSW): A population-based study. Johnson A., Toelle B.G., Yates D., Belousova E., Ng K., Corbett S., Marks G., Occupational Medicine, June 2006, Vol.56, No.4, p.258-262. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this cross sectional, population-based study was to examine the contribution of workplace exposures to the development of asthma in adults in the Australian State of New South Wales (NSW). Data were collected by means of a questionnaire returned by 5331 randomly-selected subjects aged between 18 and 49 years (response rate 37%). Among 910 subjects with asthma, 383 subjects reported adult-onset disease. After adjusting for sex, age and smoking, working in any high-risk job or exposure at the time of asthma onset was significantly associated with adult-onset asthma (odds ratio 1.51). The population-attributable risk of adult-onset asthma for either a high-risk job or an exposure was 9.5%. Other findings are discussed. (106943)
CIS 07-799 Bladder cancer in occupational settings - INRS presents the current situation with respect to prevention measures. (French: Cancer de la vessie en milieu professionnel - l'INRS fait le point sur la prévention) Héry M., Conso F., Goutet P., Documents pour le médecin du travail, Dec. 2006, No.108, p.479-484. Illus. 2 ref. (In French) Internet: This article serves as an introduction to a seminar entitled "Ending bladder cancer at the workplace", organized by the INRS in Paris in March 2007. It provides information on the disease and reviews preventive measures such as the prohibition or restriction of use of substances known to cause bladder cancer and modifications in industrial processes. It concludes that, while there is still much to be achieved, the level of exposure has been reduced. (106987)
CIS 07-800 Occupational respiratory diseases. (French: Maladies respiratoires professionnelles) Matrat M., Andujar P., Pairon J.C., Documents pour le médecin du travail, Dec. 2006, No.108, p.495-505. Illus. 16 ref. (In French) Internet: This article presents the findings of eight studies on occupational respiratory diseases. Contents: relationship between occupational exposure and chronic bronchitis risk; metal fume fever among welders and the risk of subsequent occurrence of welding-related asthma; respiratory function among asbestos workers and thoracic tomodensitometry data; exposure to asbestos and risk of bronchopulmonary cancer; risk of respiratory cancers due to asbestos exposure following the 11 September 2001 attack; serum osteopontine as a marker of pleural mesothelioma among persons exposed to asbestos; silicosis and bronchopulmonary cancer risk from silica exposure among construction workers; lung inflammation in mice following skin exposure to latex. (106989)
CIS 07-801 Occupational rhinitis and asthma caused by plants. (French: Rhinite et asthme professionnels aux végétaux) Rosenberg N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, Dec. 2006, No.108, p.557-569. Illus. 104 ref. (In French) Internet: Exposure to plants may cause rhinitis, conjunctivitis, asthma or urticaria. Diagnosis is usually based on the concurrent existence of work-related symptoms and positive skin and/or serum allergy tests. This review article describes the allergic reactivity of various plant allergens, identifies the agents responsible for rhinitis and asthma in various agricultural and industrial sectors and examines diagnostic methods. Prevention requires reducing to a minimum all work tasks involving the formation of large quantities of dust. (106990)
CIS 07-802 Prostate cancer among pesticide applicators: A meta-analysis. Van Maele-Fabry G., Willems J.L., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nov. 2004, Vol.77, No.8, p.559-570. Illus. 77 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey investigated the occurrence of prostate cancer in pesticide applicators. Relative risks (RRs) found in 22 were pooled. Findings are discussed. The pooled RR of 1.24 for prostate cancer in agricultural pesticide spraying provides evidence of a possible relationship between pesticide exposure and prostate cancer. The homogeneity observed between the individual study rate ratios, after the data had been regrouped according to geographic location, tends to increase the consistency of the association. However, the data available from the individual studies do not provide sufficient exposure information for firm conclusions to be drawn about pesticide exposure as the cause of prostate cancer. (106917)
CIS 07-803 Occupational health surveillance: Challenges faced by Central America given its level of socioeconomic development. (Spanish: Vigilancia de la salud ocupacional: el reto de Centro América por su desarrollo socio-económico) de Mezerville Cantillo L., Estudios de la Seguridad Social, 2005, No.95, p.71-78. 3 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article presents an overview of occupational health surveillance in Central American countries and highlights the gaps in legislation and the management of occupational hazards, as well as in the notification and recording of occupational diseases. (106808)
CIS 07-804 Recording and notifying occupational diseases. Challenges in Europe. (Spanish: Registro y notificación de las enfermedades profesionales. Les retos en Europa) Breuer J., Estudios de la Seguridad Social, 2005, No.95, p.55-62. (In Spanish) Internet: This article consists of the full text of a paper presented at an International Social Security Association (ISSA) seminar held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 27 and 28 April 2005. The broad framework of the system for the recording and notification of occupational diseases in Europe is described. The possible causes of under-notification of occupational diseases are analyzed. Finally, the situation prevailing in Germany is presented. (106807)
CIS 07-805 Occupational diseases in the period of socioeconomic transition in Poland. Szeszenia-Dąbrowska N., Wilczyńska U., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2nd quarter 2006, Vol.19, No.2, p.99-106. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: This analysis of data from the Polish Central Register of Occupational Diseases shows a systematic downward trend in the number of occupational diseases. In 1998, 12,017 cases were recorded, while in 2005, this number was reduced to 3249. In 2005, the highest incidence rates were noted for chronic voice disorders, pneumoconioses, infectious and parasitic diseases, hearing loss and skin diseases. The observed decrease is associated with continued transformations in the national economy. Medical preventive measures, such as vaccinations covering high-risk groups have contributed to the reduced incidence of occupational diseases. The number of cases of occupation-related viral hepatitis was seven times lower in 2005 than in 1993. The 2005 data show that over 50% of occupational diseases were diagnosed in workers employed outside industry. (106820)
CIS 07-806 The issue of occupational health. (French: La santé au travail en question...) Mongalvy M., ed., Réalité Prévention, Jan. 2004, No.3, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In French) Internet: Newsletter of the French National Occupational Safety and Health Institute (INRS) which explores the issue of occupational health and the prevention of occupational hazards. Topics addressed: role of the government with respect to occupational health and current situation in France; reflections on the cost to enterprises of occupational diseases and health protection; activities of an occupational physician; role of safety and hygiene committees with respect to occupational health; current situation in Canada where there is a separation between public health and occupational health. (106903)
CIS 07-807 Reliability and validity of the Stanford presenteeism scale. Turpin R.S., Ozminkowski R.J., Sharda C.E., Collins J.J., Berger M.L., Billotti G.M., Baase C.M., Olson M.J., Nicholson S., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2004, Vol.46, No.11, p.1123-1133. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: This article reports on the reliability and validity of the 13-item Stanford Presenteeism Scale (SPS). Impaired presenteeism occurs when workers are physically present but function at less than full productivity because of illness or other health conditions. The SPS differs from similar scales by focusing on knowledge-based and production-based workers. The study was conducted in a large enterprise with multiple facilities throughout the USA. Data were obtained from administrative databases and from a survey that incorporated the SPS, SF-36, and the Work Limitations Questionnaire. Sixty-three percent of employees (7797) responded. There were significant and positive relationships between the three questionnaires. The SPS demonstrates a high degree of reliability and validity and may be ideal for employers who seek a single scale to measure health-related productivity in a diverse employee population. (106921)
CIS 07-808 Occupational asthma. (French: Asthme professionnel) Godard P., Amielle J., Pairon J.C., eds., Editions Imothep, 19 avenue Duquesne, 75007 Paris, France, 2004. 10p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French) Internet: Collection of ten sheets on occupational asthma aimed at helping general practitioners and occupational physicians to diagnose and treat this disease. Topics addressed include respiratory impairment of asthma patients, main occupations involved, medical treatment, notification, compensation and guidance on change of job. Includes a glossary of the main acronyms and abbreviations. (106769)
CIS 07-809 Occupational cancers: Keys for action. (French: Cancers professionnels: des clés pour agir) FNATH, Association des accidentés de la vie, 47, rue des Alliés, 42030 Saint-Etienne Cedex 2, France, 2005. 18p. Illus. (In French) Internet: In France, it is estimated that one cancer in ten is due to occupational factors, a proportion that increases to one in five for blue-collar workers. Fifteen to twenty thousand new cases of occupational cancer occur each year. This booklet is aimed at workers potentially exposed to the risk of cancer or already suffering from cancer. Contents includes: preventive measures; responsibilities of employers; roles of the various representatives (workers' representatives, committees for occupational hygiene, health and working conditions, labour inspection and occupational physicians); steps to be followed for the cancer to be recognized as being due to occupational factors. Appendices include IARC classification and estimations of the number of occupational cancer cases. (106770)
CIS 07-810 Occupational determinants of pancreatic cancer. Ojajärvi A., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2006. 158p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 20.00., ISBN 978-951-802-730-3 (In English) Internet: This study investigated the occupational determinants of pancreatic cancer. In a case-control study, 595 incident cases of pancreatic cancer diagnosed in Finland between 1984 and 1987 were analysed. A meta-analysis of occupational risk factors was also carried out based on 1,903 studies and 23 chemical agents. Results suggest that heavy occupational exposure to organic solvents, especially aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbon solvents (but not chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents), may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. Additional excess was found for exposure to ionizing radiation. (106859)
CIS 07-811 Musculoskeletal diseases in Europe - Definitions and statistical data. (French: Les troubles musculosquelettiques en Europe - Définitions et données statistiques) EUROGIP, 55 rue de la Fédération, 75015 Paris, France, 2006. 10p. (In French) Internet: Europe is faced with a continuous rise in the number of workers suffering from musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs). Currently, some 40 million workers are affected by these diseases, for which the economic burden is estimated at between 0.5 and 2% of the gross domestic product. This review document on MSDs in Europe covers the definition of MSDs, MSDs that figure on the list of occupational diseases compensated in various countries and trends in the number of persons affected by MSDs in the main European countries. (106767)
CIS 07-812 Self-reported work-related illness in 2004/05: Results from the labour force survey. Jones J.R., Huxtable C.S., Hodgson J.T., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. xxv, 199p. Illus. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: This report provides results from the sixth national household survey of work-related illness undertaken in the United Kingdom 2004/05 to gain a national view of work-related illness based on participants' self-reports and perceptions. Results provide estimates of the overall prevalence (including long standing as well as new cases) of work-related illness in the last 12 months, of incidence (new cases) in the same period and of annual working days lost due to work-related illness. The report also presents more detailed results by a range of demographic and employment-related variables as well as some broad comparisons of the latest results with those from 2001/02 and 2003/04. (106964)
CIS 07-813 Cost and financing of occupational diseases in Europe. (French: Coût et financement des maladies professionnelles en Europe) EUROGIP, 55 rue de la Fédération, 75015 Paris, France, 2004. 16p. (In French) Internet: The European Forum of Insurances against Accidents at Work and Occupational Diseases was established in 1992. Its objective is to promote the concept of a specific insurance against occupational hazards and to monitor the process of convergence between the systems in place within the various European countries. In 2004, seventeen countries were represented. This document is one of many reports on the progress of these activities. Contents: cost of compensation; type of expenditure; relative importance of occupational diseases within the overall occupational hazards; the most costly occupational diseases; means of financing; financial balance of the occupational diseases division; assessment of the system for the financing of occupational disease insurance. (106766)
CIS 07-814 Social determinants of health - The solid facts. (French: Les déterminants sociaux de la santé - Les faits) Wilkinson R., Marmot M., eds., Publications, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Scherfigsvej 8, 2100 København, Denmark, 2nd ed., 2003. 31p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: CHF 15.00/USD 13.50 (CHF 10,50 for developing countries); downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 92-890-1371-0 (En), ISBN 92-890-2370-8 (fr), ISBN 92-890-3370-3 (de), ISBN 92-890-4370-9 (ru) (In English, French, German, Russian) Internet: This report examines the social determinants of health and explains how psychological and social influences affect physical health and longevity. It looks at what is known about the most important social determinants of health today and the role that public policy can play in shaping a social environment that is conducive to better health. Topics covered: lifelong importance of health determinants in early childhood, and the effects of poverty, drugs, working conditions, unemployment, social support, good food and transport policy. (106836)
CIS 07-815 Waste industry: Protecting the environment without exposing workers. (French: Filière déchets: protéger l'environnement sans exposer le salarié) Mongalvy M., ed., Réalité Prévention, Oct. 2003, No.2, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In French) Internet: Newsletter of the French National Occupational Safety and Health Institute (INRS) which examines the protection of the health of waste sorting workers. Topics addressed: responsibilities of the local authority with respect to the health of workers assigned to the task of waste sorting; safety and hygiene characteristics of the waste management sector; INRS approach aimed at integrating safety and health in the design phase of the plant; example of a common industrial waste enterprise that uses the support services of a specialized consultant; viewpoint of the president of a regional recycling enterprise; Italian waste management and environmental protection strategy. (106902)
CIS 07-816 Waste - Avoiding risks when demolishing what was constructed. (French: Déchets - Déconstruire sans risques ce que l'on a construit) Brasseur G., Travail et sécurité, Jan. 2007, No.669, p.22-33. Illus (In French) Internet: The waste disposal sector must satisfy the requirements of both environmental protection and the protection of its workers. This collection of articles reviews the regulations that are specific to the collection, transport, treatment and elimination of waste. Contents: disposal of electrical and electronic waste; recycling of motor vehicles; evaluation of the exposure to benzene during the emptying of the fuel tanks of vehicles involved in accidents; requirements with respect to the packaging and transport of waste. (106991)
CIS 07-817 Soil remediation: Careful, danger!. (French: Dépollution des sols, attention danger!) Sagot F., Prévention BTP, Dec. 2006, No.91, p.39-47. Illus. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: This collection of articles covers soil remediation, an area which is experiencing rapid growth because of the scarcity of land and the increased interest in the redevelopment of derelict industrial areas. Contents: current situation; comments by the vice president of the French trade association of site remediation enterprises and the director of a remediation enterprise; hazards related to the various types of treatment and their prevention; rules to be followed on a typical site; prevention measures adopted by an enterprise involved in the remediation of an illegal waste site containing solvents. (106997)
CIS 07-818 WIND (Work Improvement in Neighbourhood Development) Programme - How the programme has helped farmers build safe and healthy farms in the Mekong delta area, Vietnam. Khai T.T., Kawakami T., Kogi K., Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Mar. 2006, Vol.13, No.1, p.10-13. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: Agricultural workers include a particularly high proportion of unprotected workers, especially in developing countries. The ILO is promoting the development of a voluntary, participatory and action-oriented training programme called WIND (Work Improvement in Neighbourhood Development) for implementing practical improvements in agricultural households. The principles of the programme are support for local initiatives, multifaceted solutions to suit the local situation and step-by-step progress in the implementation of improvements. This article describes the implementation of a WIND programme aimed at improving occupational safety and health in the agricultural sector in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. (106829)
CIS 07-819 Outdoor construction sites - How to work near networks. (French: Chantiers extérieurs - Comment travailler à proximité de réseaux) Sagot F., Prévention BTP, Nov. 2006, No.90, p.28-29. Illus. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: This article discusses the requirements that both site owners and construction companies need to fulfill in order to ensure the protection and safety of construction site workers prior to undertaking work near overhead or underground networks. Topics addressed: preparing the construction site near networks; request for information to be addressed to each network operator; cases where disconnection is not possible; emergency situations. (106753)
CIS 07-820 Demolition work - A specialist business. (French: Travaux de démolition - Une affaire de spécialistes) Sagot F., Prévention BTP, Dec. 2006, No.91, p.28-29. Illus. 1 ref. (In French) Internet: This article discusses the occupational safety and health aspects related to the various phases of demolition work: cleaning out (removal of secondary equipment, generally manually or with the help of hand tools); demolition with the use of heavy equipment; sorting of waste into containers located on the site (inert materials, wood, plastics and metals). The main hazards include falls from heights, collapse, falls of materials, accidents involving equipment or vehicles, dust pollution and accidents during the manual handling of loads. (106995)
CIS 07-821 The ILO's new Convention on maritime labour: An innovative instrument. (French: La nouvelle convention sur le travail maritime: un instrument novateur; Spanish: (SITITL): El nuevo Convenio marítimo, una norma innovadora) Bollé P., International Labour Review - Revue internationale du Travail - Revista internacional del trabajo, 2006, Vol.145, No.1-2, p.135-142 (English), p.157-164 (French); 2006, Vol.125, No.1-2, p.150-157 (Spanish). 10 ref. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This article comments on the new ILO Convention on maritime labour adopted in 2006. It reviews the historical developments leading to this Convention and presents the structure and content of the new Convention, highlighting its innovative aspects. The Convention sets minimum requirements for seafarers to work on a ship and contains provisions on conditions of employment, hours of work and rest, accommodation, recreational facilities, food and catering, health protection, medical care, welfare and social security protection. The new Convention consolidates and updates 68 existing ILO maritime Conventions and Recommendations adopted since 1920. (106821)
CIS 07-822 Occupational health in the Nigerian cement industry - Workers' awareness and perceptions. Ezeonu F.C., Ezeonu J.N., Edeogu O.C., African Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Dec. 2005, Vol.15, No.3, p.73-75. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: A cross-sectional survey of workers at cement plants, sales depots and construction sites in Nigeria was carried out to examine workers' awareness and perception of risks at the workplace, their demographic characteristics, duration of exposure and incidence rates of work-related injuries. The survey involved visits to workplaces and interviewer-administered questionnaires of workers. Findings are discussed and possible reasons for the observed low level of compliance with safety and health legislation are proposed. (106827)
CIS 07-823 Mortality and cancer incidence in a Swedish art glassworks - An updated cohort study. Wingren G., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nov. 2004, Vol.77, No.8, p.599-603. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: Mortality and cancer incidence in a Swedish art glassworks was studied in a cohort of 1229 workers employed between 1964 and 1997. The observed number of cases was compared with expected numbers based on national rates for mortality and cancer incidence. Statistically-significant risks were found for colon and rectum cancer among men (standardized incidence ratio (SIR) 1.92, 14 cases) and for cancer in the liver and bile ducts among refinement workers (SIR 3.96, two male and two female cases). Most of the causes of death associated with an elevated standardized mortality ratio (SMR) in the 1985 cohort resulted in lower SMRs in this updated cohort, possibly as a result of preventive actions taken at the glassworks. On the other hand, the risk for cancers in the digestive system seems to remain, perhaps due to past asbestos exposure or to the inhalation or ingestion of larger particles in the ambient air. (106920)
CIS 07-824 Cut for the job. (French: Taillé pour l'emploi) De Clerck L., Prevent Focus, Sep. 2006, No.7, p.12-14. Illus. 2 ref. (In French) Internet: This article describes a hazard evaluation exercise carried out in a Belgian hairdressing school with 430 students. Topics addressed: compliance with safety and health regulations; analysis of the hazards (physical workload, irritation and allergy, noise, legionellosis); preventive measures. (106765)
CIS 07-825 Occupational safety among territorial public sector employees. (French: Sécurité au travail dans la fonction publique territoriale) Bianchi P., Face au risque, Oct. 2006, No.426, p.17-19. Illus. (In French) Internet: Topics addressed in this article on occupational safety in the public sector in France: regulations; roles of joint technical committees and hygiene and health committees; role of occupational and preventive medicine. (106775)
CIS 07-826 Health care institutions and hazard evaluation: A complex process. (French: Etablissements de santé et évaluation des risques: une procédure complexe) Bléjan M.T., Revue Technique Apave, Jan.-Mar. 2006, No.313, p.45-47. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article comments on the legal requirement for evaluating the safety and health hazards faced by workers in health care institutions. Mandatory since 2001 in France, these evaluations involve several difficulties given the complex nature of the work environment. Contents: legal aspects and the requirement to compile a single hazard evaluation document; hazards; complexity of the evaluation; analysis required prior to compiling the single document. Includes an example of a hazard evaluation sheet and brief statistics of occupational accidents and diseases in health care institutions. (106882)
CIS 07-827 Hotel work - Accidents from thermal contact, cuts or pricks. (Spanish: Trabajos en hostelería III - Accidentes por contacto térmico, cortes y punzamientos) ERGA Noticias, 2006, No.94, p.4. Illus. 2 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Most accidents which occur in kitchens within the hotel industry are due to thermal contact (burns) or to cuts or pricks during the handling of sharp instruments. This article describes the preventive measures to be adopted in kitchens for avoiding or limiting this type of accident, with reference to relevant Spanish legislation. (106898)
CIS 07-828 Ill health retirement in Scottish teachers: Process, outcomes and re-employment. Brown J., Gilmour W.H., Macdonald E.B., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2006, Vol.79, No.5, p.433-440. Illus. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to assess the process, causes and outcomes of ill health retirement in teachers in Scotland. A questionnaire on perceptions and experience of occupational health services, access to rehabilitation and redeployment, current health and post retirement experience was mailed to 537 teachers who took early retirement due to ill health between April 1998 and March 2000. Findings highlight substantial lack of support for teachers in a number of areas that need to be addressed by managers and employers. This study confirms the need for rehabilitation and teacher support services in order to retain experienced teachers in the profession. (106938)
CIS 07-829 Injury in Australian veterinarians. Fritschi L., Day L., Shirangi A., Robertson I., Lucas M., Vizard A., Occupational Medicine, May 2006, Vol.56, No.3, p.199-203. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this cross-sectional questionnaire survey of 2800 Australian veterinarians was to identify the prevalence of injuries sustained by these workers and the groups most at risk for different types of injury. Subjects were asked whether they had ever had a significant work-related injury, a less serious acute work injury in the last 12 months, a work-related chronic musculoskeletal problem or dog or cat bites. The prevalence of injuries by gender, practice type and decade of graduation were reported and multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the risk of each type of injury. Findings show that injuries are common and serious in the profession, with large animal practitioners at highest risk. (106947)
CIS 07-830 Young persons at work - Safe start. (French: Jeunes au travail - Débute en sécurité) Larcher C., Schwartz G., Travail et sécurité, Oct. 2006, No.666, p.25-31. Illus. 8 ref. (In French) Internet: In France, young persons aged between 15 and 24 years are two and a half times as likely as their elders to be victims of occupational accidents. A similar situation exists in other European countries. A campaign entitled "Safe Start" was launched by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work to focus on this issue. This collection of articles includes a summary of the objectives of the campaign, a presentation of the joint efforts undertaken in France by the INRS and educational institutions, and an analysis of the behaviour of young persons and the reasons why they are more likely to be at risk. It presents the policies adopted by a waste sorting enterprise and a construction company, aimed at limiting the risk of accidents among young persons. (106761)
CIS 07-831 Well-being of young persons at work. Literature survey on the topic. (French: Bien-être des jeunes au travail. Une étude de la littérature sur le sujet) Eeckelaert L., Prevent Focus, Sep. 2006, No.7, p.4-7. Illus. 8 ref. (In French) Internet: This literature survey on the well-being of young persons at work analyses the reasons behind their increased risk of occupational accidents. Risk factors are discussed according to their classification as intrinsic (lack of experience, behavior with respect to hazards, psychosocial aspects, consumption of drugs and alcohol) or extrinsic (specific aspects of the job, conditions of work, training, supervision). It is concluded notably that the role of company management is key for controlling risk factors and thus for preventing adverse health effects among young workers. (106763)
CIS 07-832 Changes for interns. (French: Ça bouge pour les stagiaires) Prevent Focus, Sep. 2006, No.7, p.8-11. Illus. 1 ref. (In French) Internet: This article comments on Belgian legislation applicable to young interns. Topics covered include: definition of intern; changes in legislation in 2005 and 2006; inventory of hazards; prohibitions; health supervision; responsibilities of employers; role of educational institutions; communication of information. (106764)
CIS 07-833 Work in isolation. (French: Le travail isolé) Labbé F., Santé et Sécurité au Travail Actualités, Nov.-Dec. 2006, No.95, p.5-6, 12. Illus. (In French) Internet: Work in isolation can increase the severity of occupational accidents. It should be avoided whenever possible or reduced to a minimum and taken into account when evaluating occupational hazards. This article comments on the main provisions of French regulations concerning work in isolation, namely: organizing a specific supervision system, identifying hazardous situations and implementing preventive measures. Includes answers to several frequently-asked questions and a list of the main French regulations applicable to work in isolation. (106886)
CIS 07-834 Safe start. (Spanish: Crecer con seguridad) de Arquer I., de Arquer P., Llacuna Morera J., Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo, Oct. 2006, No.39, p.4-65 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This issue is devoted to the European week for the occupational safety and health of young persons entering working life, which was held from 23 to 27 October 2006. Young persons constitute a group at risk given their limited experience and insufficient training and awareness of occupational safety and health problems. Contents includes: trends in occupational accidents in Spain July 2005-June 2006; education of children to make them aware of hazards; integrating occupational safety and health in teaching; occupational hazards, accident rates and causes of accidents among young workers and preventive measures; INSHT training courses; reprints of six fact sheets aimed at young persons starting their working life, published by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. (106900)
CIS 07-835 Fatal injury of young workers in Australia. Driscoll T., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 2006, Vol.22, No.2, p.151-161. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: Although there are many positive aspects of work for young Australians, a number of occupations present significant hazards for this population. This analysis of work-related fatalities in young workers (aged 19 years or less) between 1989 and 1992 indicates that work-related fatal injury of young workers remains an important problem in Australia. The data provide guidance as to where and how prevention efforts might be best planned and implemented. A detailed analysis of data from the National Coroners Information System would help to provide better guidance. Many of the prevention approaches aimed at all workers should benefit young workers as well, but the prevention activities instituted for young workers need to take into account the relevant cognitive, psychological and social factors that are specific to young persons and adolescents. (106932)
CIS 07-836 Ageing and work: Health at all ages. (French: Vieillissement - travail: la santé à tout âge) Mongalvy M., ed., Réalité Prévention, Apr 2005, No.7, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In French) Internet: Newsletter of the French National Occupational Safety and Health Institute (INRS) exploring the state of health and working conditions of older workers. Topics addressed: management of older workers within the enterprise; improving working conditions to prevent weariness and progressive demotivation of workers; older workers and work strenuousness; management policy on workforce ageing in a motorway maintenance group; measures adopted in a Norwegian investment group to benefit older workers. (106907)
CIS 07-837 Regulating the health and safety of young workers in Australia. Mourell M., Allan C., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 2006, Vol.22, No.2, p.115-125. 56 ref. (In English) Internet: In Australia, the employment of young persons is increasing. In response to this situation, a number of state governments have reviewed labour laws in recent years. This article examines the regulatory regime relating to the safety and health of young persons and adolescents in Australia. It is argued that this regime is somewhat piecemeal and in need of reform, and that a far better approach would be to either enact separate legislation to cover all aspects of the employment of young people (as in the state of Victoria) or to enact a code of practice that deals with the safety and health of young workers. (106931)
CIS 07-838 Working and environmental conditions of child labour in agriculture: Method of investigation. (Spanish: Condiciones y medio ambiente del trabajo infantil en la agricultura: Metodología de investigación) Alcóser M., Forastieri V, eds., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2004. 95p. Illus. 14 ref., ISBN 92-2-315735-8 (In Spanish) Internet: According to ILO estimates, the worldwide working population includes some 350 million children. This document presents an approach for studying the working conditions and environment for children in the agricultural sector. Contents: introduction to child labour in the agricultural sector in Central America; theoretical framework on which the approach is based; description of the approach; tools used; evaluation guide (data collection); matrix of the processes; overview and mapping of risk factors. (106787)
CIS 07-839 Improving safety and health in construction: The need for action during procurement, design and planning, construction and maintenance. (French: Accroître la sécurité et la santé dans la construction: la nécessité d'adopter une action à tous les stades, de la passation du marché jusqu'à l'entretien en passant par la conception, la planification et l'édification; Spanish: Mejorar la seguridad y la salud en la construcción: la necesidad de adoptar acciones en todos los estadios, desde la adjudicación, el proyecto y la planificación hasta la construcción y el mantenimiento) European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Vía 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain, 2004. 20p. Illus. 8 ref., ISBN 92-9191-113-5 (es), ISBN 92-9191-115-1 (en), ISBN 92-9191-116-X (fr) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: The European Week for Safety and Health at Work in 2004 focused on the construction industry. This document summarises the results of the European construction safety summit held in Bilbao, Spain, on 22 November 2004. Contents: background to the construction industry and health and safety; workshops (procurement, design and planning, management of OSH on construction sites; prevention of ill-health problems in construction); overall conclusions; the Bilbao declaration (building in safety); good practice awards. (106804)
CIS 07-840 Occupational accident and disease statistics for the construction sector. (French: Statistiques accidents du travail et maladies professionnelles du BTP) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2005. 5p. Illus. (Internet document). (In French) Internet: Occupational accident and disease statistics for the construction sector in France for the year 2003 are analysed. The situation and trends with respect to the number of cases and the severity of accidents and diseases are presented for the period between 1990 and 2003. The data indicate that the number of occupational accidents was in constant decline while occupational diseases increased up to 2002 and stayed stable in 2003. (106909)
CIS 07-841 The living and working conditions of teachers in Tanzania. Sumra S., Education International, 5 boulevard du Roi Albert II, 1210 Brussels, Belgium, 2005. vi, 50p. 15 ref., ISBN 9987-423-01-9 (In English) Internet: Topics addressed in this survey on the living and working conditions of teachers in Tanzania: purpose of the research; survey sample and design; choice of teaching as a career and status of teachers in the community; working and living conditions of teachers; findings of the survey and their implications for policy, management and administration and trade unions; recommendations; suggestions for future research. (106832)
CIS 07-842 Descriptive study of private agency nurses' employment, working and health and safety conditions in the context of a labour shortage. (French: Etude descriptive des conditions d'emploi, de travail et de santé et de sécurité du travail des infirmières d'agence privée dans un contexte de pénurie de main-d'œuvre) Cloutier E., Bourdouxhe M., Ledoux E., David H., Gagnon I., Ouellet 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, 2006. xii, 258p. Illus. 69 ref. Price: CAD 20.00 (main report); 2006. vi, 41p. Illus. 33 ref. Price: CAD 7.42 (summary). Downloadable versions (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-072-2 (summary), ISBN 978-2-89631-074-6 (full report) (In French) Internet: This study as well as a previous study (R-346, see CIS 03-1256) show that local community service centres (LCSCs) in Quebec have to deal with an increasing demand for services with insufficient manpower. They therefore make more use of the services of private homecare agencies. This study analyzed the working and safety and health conditions of nurses from agencies collaborating with one of the previously studied LCSCs. The report describes the main characteristics of two agencies and the nurses who are employed in them, together with the constraints that they face, their occupational safety and health conditions and their career and health paths. There are also comparisons between the occupational safety and health conditions of agency nurses and of nurses from the LCSCs studied. Finally, leads for further research are provided. (106867)
CIS 07-843 Eliminating the worst forms of child labour. A practical guide to ILO Convention No. 182. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2002. 159p. 37 ref. Price: CHF 20.00., ISBN 92-2-112900-4 (In English) Internet: This handbook is intended to serve as a practical guide for parliamentarians in the fight against child labour. Contents: presentation of the issue of the worst forms of child labour and the role of international labour standards and other international treaties that are relevant to the problem in the form of seven questions; seven measures to be taken to bring about the elimination of the worst forms of child labour; texts of ILO Conventions and Recommendations concerning child labour and the worst forms of child labour; a model instrument of ratification and other reference material. (106857)
CIS 07-844 Guide to PPE. (French: Les guide des EPI) Prévention BTP, Nov. 2006, No.90, 26p. Insert. Illus. (In French) Internet: This guide contains information on personal protective equipment applicable to workers in the construction industry, including standards and design trends for each type of equipment and practical advice for selecting appropriate equipment for the specific hazards encountered. (106752)
CIS 07-845 Safe system of work plan (SSWP) - Pictograms. Health and Safety Authority (HAS), The Metropolitan Building, James Joyce Street, Dublin 1, Ireland, [ca 2006]. 75p. Illus. Price: EUR 2.00., ISBN 1-84496-012-9 (In English) Internet: The Safe System of Work Plan (SSWP) identifies the major hazards associated with construction work activities and helps to ensure that appropriate controls are in place before work commences. It communicates through the use of pictograms so that everyone on site, including persons who possess little or no English, can understand what they need to do. This booklet explains the meaning of the various pictograms. Part 1 covers the pictograms for ground works and part 2 those for house building. (106854)
CIS 07-846 Construction site safety hints. Occupational Safety and Health Council, 19/F China United Centre, 28 Marble Road, North Point, Hong Kong, 1996. 33p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This illustrated booklet provides basic advice on how to work safely on construction sites. It explains safe working methods in specific situations and highlights the role of the supervisor. (106855)
CIS 07-847 Back to work, back to health - Return to work for the retail industry. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, [c2006]. 20p. Illus. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet provides guidance for employers and supervisors in the retail sector on helping injured workers recover and return to work. Contents: responding to injuries; working with doctors and health care services; working with the occupational safety and health institution of British Columbia (WorkSafeBC); promoting return to work; sample letters and information sheets. (106953)
CIS 07-848 Tripartite workshop on occupational safety and health in the construction sector and one-day conference on occupational safety and health in the construction sector - 17 and 18 September 2003. (Spanish: Taller tripartito sobre salud y seguridad en el trabajo en la construcción y jornada sobre salud y seguridad en el trabajo en la construcción - 17 y 18 septiembre 2003) Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Seguridad Social, Av. Leandro N. Alem 650, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2003. CD-ROM containing 12 documents in PDF, html or MS-Word format. (In Spanish) Internet: CD-ROM containing documents relating to a tripartite workshop and a conference on occupational safety and health in the construction sector held on 17 and 18 September 2003 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It includes the workshop and conference programmes, proceedings and other documents in pdf, html or MS-Word formats. Main topics addressed: health of construction workers in the Mercosur area; prevention of injuries and diseases; prevention of occupational hazards; safety and health improvements in the construction sector in Lima, Peru; new organizational structures in the Uruguayan construction industry; epidemiological indicators for the construction sector in Uruguay. (106786)
CIS 07-849 Proposed Consolidated Maritime Labour Convention 2006. (French: Projet de convention du travail maritime consolidée 2006; Spanish: Proyecto de convenio refundido sobre el trabajo marítimo 2006) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2006. CD-ROM. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This CD-ROM contains the text of a proposed ILO consolidated Maritime Labour Convention and related documentation. This convention was adopted at the International Labour Conference in Geneva in February 2006. The new instrument provides a firm set of principles and rights for seafarers and is designed to have a simplified amendment procedure and to ensure a more effective implementation of maritime standards. It is intended to become the fourth pillar of the international regulation of the maritime sector, as a complement to the basic conventions of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). (106852)
CIS 07-850 Managing the risks from nanotechnology. Davies P., Tsavalos A., Fullam B., Wilson M., Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2004. 4p. (In English) Internet: This working paper of the Health and Safety Commission on nanotechnology highlights the uncertainty surrounding knowledge of the health hazards of nanoparticles and stresses the need for adopting a precautionary approach. It outlines a proposed plan for priority research areas and for providing guidance on minimizing exposure. (106965)
CIS 07-851 Nanoscience and nanotechnologies: Opportunities and uncertainties. The Royal Society, 6-9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AG, United Kingdom, 2004. Internet document. 113p. 147 ref., ISBN 0-85403-604-0 (In English) Internet: This report on nanoscience and nanotechnologies highlights the fact that nanotechnologies offer many benefits both now and in the future but that public debate is needed about their development. It also highlights the immediate need for research to address uncertainties about the health and environmental effects of nanoparticles and makes recommendations on regulations to control exposure. Topics addressed: definition of nanoscience and nanotechnologies; science and applications; nanomanufacturing and industrial applications of nanotechnologies; possible adverse health and environmental impact; social and ethical issues; stakeholder and public dialogue; regulatory issues; conclusions; recommendations. (106966)
CIS 07-852 Nanoparticles - Actual knowledge about occupational health and safety risks and prevention measures. Ostiguy C., Lapointe G., Ménard L., Cloutier Y., Trottier M., Boutin M., Antoun M., Normand C., 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, 2006. ix, 86p. Illus. Approx 200 ref. Price: CAD 10.60. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-89631-062-3 (In English) Internet: This review assesses the current scientific knowledge on nanoparticles, focusing on their health risks and prevention of worker exposure. An earlier report addressing the health effects (see CIS 06-1147) showed that a limited number of toxicological studies exist, but all of these studies concurred on the existence of health risks following exposure to nanoparticles. Although many risks are associated with the nature of nanoparticles, it has now been clearly established that toxicity is related to the surface area of these particles and not their mass, and that, for a given substance, the toxicity is much higher when it is of nanometric size than micrometric size. This second report summarizes the characterization, production and use of nanoparticles, safety and health risks, airborne detection, control of exposure and fire and explosion hazards. (106849)
CIS 07-853 Industrial accidents in the year 2005. (French: Accidents technologiques de l'année 2005) Face au risque, Nov. 2006, No.427, p.7-10. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article presents a summary of the analysis of the 1978 industrial accidents which occurred in France in 2005, and that are featured in the ARIA database. Data are presented by type of event, sector of activity, substances involved, primary cause of accident and consequences. Data on all industrial accidents occurring in France and other countries from 1997 are published on the website of the French Ministry of the Environment (www.aria.environnement.gouv.fr). (106975)
CIS 07-854 Respiratory symptoms and intensity of occupational dust exposure. Garshick E., Laden F., Hart J.E., Moy M.L., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Oct. 2004, Vol.77, No.7, p.515-520. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: A postal questionnaire survey on respiratory health was conducted between 1988 and 1992 among a cohort of U.S. veterans eligible for Veterans' Affairs healthcare benefits. Data were collected on history of cough, phlegm, and wheeze, work in a dusty job, and duration, type and intensity of dust exposure, together with information on smoking and other possible confounders. In 2,617 white men, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of chronic cough, chronic phlegm and persistent wheeze attributable to occupational dust exposure were increased twofold. Risks also increased as a function of exposure intensity. For heavy dust exposure the OR was 1.98 for chronic cough, 2.82 for chronic phlegm and 2.70 for persistent wheeze. (106915)
CIS 07-855 Asbestos, almost ten years of prohibition. (French: L'amiante, bientôt dix ans d'interdiction) Bianchi P., Face au risque, Oct. 2006, No.426, p.21-22, 25. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article assesses the results of the prohibition of asbestos in France. Since 1985, there have been 33,000 cases of compensated asbestos-related occupational disease, a number that is constantly increasing. Furthermore, close to 900,000 building industry workers are potentially exposed each day, in particular secondary trades workers such as heating systems workers, plumbers, electricians and roofers. The article emphasizes the insufficiency of current levels of compensation. It describes efforts aimed at certifying enterprises involved in the appraisal of asbestos risks, together with requirements for personal and environmental protection during asbestos removal and containment work. (106776)
CIS 07-856 δ-Aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) polymorphism and susceptibility of workers exposed to inorganic lead and its effects on neurobehavioral functions. Chia S.E., Yap E., Chia K.S., Neurotoxicology, 2004, Vol.25, p.1041-1047. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: This cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the frequency of δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) polymorphisms among a total of 120 ethnic Chinese, Malay and Indian male workers who were exposed to low to medium levels of inorganic lead. The association between ALAD1 and ALAD2 genotypes and neurobehavioural functions among these workers was also investigated. Blood and urine were collected to determine the ALAD genotypes, blood lead levels, ALAD, and urinary δ-aminolevulinic acid (ALA). ALAD1-1 was the predominant genotype for all three ethnic groups while ALAD2-2 was the rarest. The distribution of ALAD1-2 was higher among Malays (76.7%) and Indians (14.3%), compared to Chinese (3.6%). Workers with ALAD1-1 genotypes had significantly higher urinary ALA and significantly poorer neurobehavioral scores than those with ALAD1-2/2-2 genotypes. The ALAD2 allele may exert protective measures against the neurotoxic effects of lead. (106813)
CIS 07-857 Latex sensitization in healthcare workers in Singapore. Tang M.B.Y., Leow Y.H., Ng V., Koh D., Goh C.L., Annals of the Academy of Medicine - Singapore, 2005, Vol.34, p.376-382. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to determine the rate of latex sensitization among healthcare workers in Singapore. It involved 313 healthcare workers, of whom 46.6% were operating theatre staff, and a further 71 unexposed controls. All participants answered a self-administered questionnaire relating to latex exposure and glove-related symptoms. Latex sensitization was determined by skin prick testing to latex and latex-specific IgE detection. Findings are discussed. The prevalence of latex sensitization among healthcare workers was 9.6%. It was concluded that latex sensitization among healthcare workers in Singapore should be considered a significant occupational health risk. Increased screening and awareness of this problem is essential to identify those at risk. (106814)
CIS 07-858 Metal allergy in Singapore. Goon A.T.J., Goh C.L., Contact Dermatitis, 2005, Vol.52, p.130-132. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the frequency of metal allergy among patients diagnosed with allergic contact dermatitis in the National Skin Centre of Singapore from 2001 to 2003. The frequency of positive patch tests to the following metals were: nickel 19.9%; chromates 5.6%; cobalt 8.2%; gold 8.3%. After declining from 1984 to 1990, chromate and cobalt allergies have since been steadily increasing. The most common sources of chromate allergy were cement, leather and metal objects. Most positive patch tests to cobalt are regarded as co-sensitization due to primary nickel or chromate allergies. There has also been a steep increase in positive patch tests to gold from 2001 to 2003. (106815)
CIS 07-859 Neurological and respiratory symptoms in shipyard welders exposed to manganese. Hałatek T., Sinczuk-Walczak H., Szymczak M., Rydzynski K., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 3rd quarter 2005, Vol.18, No.3, p.265-274. Illus. 51 ref. (In English) Internet: This case-control study was performed to assess the use of neurophysiological tests for the detection of early effects of exposure to low manganese concentrations and to examine the use of Clara cell protein (CC16) as an early pulmonary biomarker of exposure to welding fumes. The study involved 59 shipyard welders and 23 controls, matched by age and smoking habits. Subjective neurological symptoms, visual evoked potentials and electroencephalography were examined. Relationships between manganese concentrations in the air, blood and urine as well as between cumulative exposure indices were investigated. CC16 as an early pulmonary biomarker in welding exposure was examined by immunoassay. Findings are discussed. It was confirmed that these sensitive tests could be used for the detection of early effect of exposure to low manganese concentrations. (106818)
CIS 07-860 The skin notation in the MAC list and classification of dangerous substances. Kupczewska-Dobecka M., Czerczak S., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2nd quarter 2006, Vol.19, No.2, p.84-91. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: In Poland, the Group of Experts for Chemical Agents (GECA) that prepares occupational exposure limits documentation decides whether a skin absorption notation for a given substance is required on the basis of data in the literature. An LD50 value of 1000 mg/kg serves as the main criterion for assigning the notation. Results of animal and human experiments that indicate systemic effects following dermal exposure are also used, together with physicochemical characteristics enabling the calculation of dermal absorption rates. Chemicals for which GECA recommend using the skin notation in the 2004 MAC list are reviewed. It is concluded that information on the classification of chemicals in the list of dangerous chemicals is useful for assessing the skin absorption, but quantitative assessment of absorption rates using the available theoretical models should also be attempted. (106819)
CIS 07-861 Basic aspects - Classification and identification of chemicals. (Spanish: Aspectos básicos - Clasificación e identificación de sustancias químicas) Bejarano Jiménez J.E., Seguridad y Trabajo, Sep.-Oct. 2006, Vol.31, No.342, p.6-7. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This article provides an overview of various classification and identification systems for chemicals, namely: EEC classification system; classification system of the Columbian national association for the protection against fire hazards (NFPA); United Nations classification and identification system for the transport of dangerous goods (orange book); globally-harmonized system (GHS) for the classification and labelling of chemicals (violet book), which will come into effect in 2008. Examples of the pictograms used by the systems and a label complying with the GHS are also presented. (106897)
CIS 07-862 Control of chemicals: Implications of the White Paper. (French: Contrôle des substances chimiques: les enjeux du Livre Blanc) Mongalvy M., ed., Réalité Prévention, May 2003, No.1, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In French) Internet: Newsletter of the French National Occupational Safety and Health Institute (INRS) comprising a series of interviews and articles which examine the implications of the new European policy with respect to evaluating the hazards related to chemicals (White Paper on the introduction of the REACH system). Topics addressed: role of the French labour ministry in applying the provisions of the White Paper; current and future role of the INRS with respect to the evaluation of chemicals; contribution of the European Commission White Paper towards the prevention of hazards related to chemicals within the enterprise; economic and social consequences of adopting the White Paper recommendations; analysis of the White Paper from the standpoint of occupational safety and health requirements. (106901)
CIS 07-863 Solvents: Current situation. (French: Les solvants: état des lieux) Mongalvy M., ed., Réalité Prévention, July 2005, No.8, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In French) Internet: Newsletter of the French National Occupational Safety and Health Institute (INRS) exploring the use of solvents and their hazards. Topics addressed: public awareness of the risks of dangerous substances; "solvents" project of the INRS and current situation in France with respect to the use of solvents; limitation of exposure by means of the recovery of solvents for re-use and the substitution of harmful solvents; positive effects achieved by the adoption of a substitution policy by a producer of wood treatment products; cleantool, an Internet database to help chose optimal methods of cleaning metal surfaces. (106908)
CIS 07-864 Occupational exposure to chemical agents in the paper industry. Korhonen K., et al., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Oct. 2004, Vol.77, No.7, p.451-460. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: As part of an international epidemiological study of workers in the pulp and paper industry undertaken by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), previously unpublished exposure measurements were assembled in a database. This article summarizes the results of 3,873 measurements carried out in the production departments of paper and paperboard mills and recycling plants in 12 countries. In the paper and paperboard mills, most of the agents were measured in the pulping and refining departments and in on-machine coating and winding of paper/paperboard. Exposures to asbestos, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, fungal spores, bacteria, nitrogen dioxide, mineral dusts, paper dust, sulphuric acid and various solvents sometimes exceeded exposure limit values. Other findings in re-pulping and de-inking departments of recycling plants, at coating machines and at newsprint departments are discussed. (106914)
CIS 07-865 Free and total urinary 2-butoxyacetic acid following dermal and inhalation exposure to 2-butoxyethanol in human volunteers. Kezic S., Meuling W.J.A., Jakasa I., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nov. 2004, Vol.77, No.8, p.580-586. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: To assess excretion kinetics of free and total 2-butoxyacetic acid (BAA) following dermal and inhalation exposure to 2-butoxyethanol (BE), six male volunteers were dermally-exposed for 4h to a 50% aqueous BE on the forearm. Six other male volunteers were exposed by inhalation (mouth only) to 93mg/m3 BE for 30min. As biological indices of exposure, BE in blood and total and free BAA in urine were measured. Findings are discussed. Overall, inter-individual variability was large. However, due to lower inter-individual variability, total BAA was found to be superior to free BAA as a biomarker of both cutaneous and inhalation exposures to BE. (106918)
CIS 07-866 Biologic markers of oxidative stress and nephrotoxicity as studied in biomonitoring of adverse effects of occupational exposure to lead and cadmium. Garçon G., Leleu B., Zerimech F., Marez T., Haguenoer J.M., Furon D., Shirali P., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2004, Vol.46, No.11, p.1180-1186. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the impregnation levels of workers occupationally exposed to lead and cadmium, the usefulness of early urinary markers of nephrotoxicity and the occurrence of oxidative stress as the underlying mechanism involved in adverse effects induced by lead or cadmium. Levels of lead and cadmium in blood and urine were measured in 35 male workers in a nonferrous metal smelter. Relations between oxidative stress markers and exposure levels, on the one hand, and early urinary markers and exposure levels, on the other hand, were evaluated. Mean exposure levels were moderate. Findings suggest the use of α-glutathione S-transferases excretion in urine as an indicator of early changes in the proximal tubular integrity that could later lead to clinical disease if exposure is not reduced. (106925)
CIS 07-867 Risk of acute myeloid leukemia after exposure to diesel exhaust: A review of the epidemiologic evidence. Boffetta P., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2004, Vol.46, No.10, p.1076-1083. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey analyses the relationship between exposure to diesel exhaust (DE) and risk of leukaemia risk, in particular acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), among exposed workers. The available studies do not consistently suggest an increased risk of leukaemia, and specifically AML, among workers exposed to DE. Sporadic positive results were counterbalanced by negative associations and might have resulted from reporting bias. To conclude, DE exposure does not appear to be associated with an increased risk of leukaemia. (106930)
CIS 07-868 Chemicals and young workers. Winder C., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Apr. 2006, Vol.22, No.2, p.163-174. 91 ref. (In English) Internet: In developed nations, adolescents (aged 12-18 years) and young persons (aged 16-24 years) are often in paid employment that is characterized by poor working conditions, low pay and few benefits. They are also exposed to many common workplace hazards. This article focuses on chemical risks for young workers. There are a number of physiological, toxicological and psychological differences between young workers and adults. Where chemical exposures occur, these differences have the potential to cause immediate, short-term or long-term health problems, either during employment or later in life. Workplace safety programs should recognize the particular needs of young workers and focus on knowledge and skills development, competency training, hazard elimination and control, and appropriate supervision. (106933)
CIS 07-869 Antagonistic combinations of occupational carcinogens. Ruediger H.W., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2006, Vol.79, No.5, p.343-348. 60 ref. (In English) Internet: Several epidemiological and experimental studies demonstrate that combinations of carcinogens may interact in a synergistic way. This has prompted speculations by some that interactions of individual chemical carcinogens are synergistic as a rule. However, various combinations of chemical carcinogens have been described which interact not even additively but in an antagonistic way. The aim of this literature review was to collect information of antagonistic interactions of occupational carcinogens obtained by epidemiologic and animal studies. In vitro studies on genotoxicity, DNA-adducts and micronuclei were also included. The toxicological mechanisms of antagonistic interactions, although speculative in some cases, are discussed. (106934)
CIS 07-870 Asbestos: Implications of Royal Decree 396/2006 [Spain}. Montero Ruano L., Mapfre seguridad, 2nd Quarter 2006, Vol.26, No.102, p.7-8. Illus. (In English) Internet: This article comments on Spanish Royal Decree 396/2006, which transposes EU Directive 2003/18/EC laying down the minimum health and safety provisions to protect workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos at work (see CIS 03-1025). This Royal Decree comprises nineteen articles grouped into three chapters: general provisions; employers' obligations; administrative aspects. (106940)
CIS 07-871 Estimates of work-related cancers in workers exposed to carcinogens. Deschamps F., Barouh M., Deslee G., Prevost A., Munck J.N., Occupational Medicine, May 2006, Vol.56, No.3, p.204-209. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: To evaluate the proportion of cancers that are work-related, a descriptive study of incident cases of cancer was carried out in a region of France during a period of three years. All persons with cancer and having a current or past working history were included in the studied population, which was recruited from local hospitals. A working history was obtained from each subject by interview. A total of 2009 cases were included and 3.18% (64) met the criteria for work-related cancer as defined. Asbestos and polycyclic hydrocarbons were the main occupational carcinogens identified. Construction and fabricated metal products sectors were linked to almost two-thirds of work-related cancers. Occupational factors were estimated to be responsible for four percent of cancers in the studied population, a finding comparable to that of studies in other countries. (106948)
CIS 07-872 Comparison of sampling and analytical methods used during the preparation of methyl methacrylate bone cements. Ungers L.J., Vendrely T.G., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, July 2006, Vol.3, No.1, p.351-357. Illus. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: Surgeons, surgical nurses, and other operating room staff are exposed to airborne concentrations of methyl methacrylate during the preparation of orthopaedic bone cement. This study compares the reliability of sampling and analysis methods used to measure methyl methacrylate in this work environment. It is concluded that assessments using photo-acoustic infrared spectrometry and solid sorbent, gas chromatography with flame ionization detection may be relied on, but the detector tube method underreports actual exposures. The implications of these findings are discussed. (106950)
CIS 07-873 Validation of a global sampling and analysis methodology for the evaluation of occupational exposure to amines. (French: Validation d'une méthode d'échantillonnage et d'analyse globale pour l'évaluation de l'exposition à des amines en milieu de travail) Fournier M., Lesage J., Ostiguy C., Van Tra H., Travail et santé, Dec. 2006, Vol.22, No.4, p.26-31. Illus. 27 ref. (In French) Internet: Evaluation of occupational exposure to amines poses a major practical challenge since the sampling and analytical methods available are substance-specific and are often complicated to use or not very efficient. This article presents the optimization and validation of a sampling system and an analytical method for the simultaneous determination of seven amines among the most likely to be encountered at the workplace: diethanolamine, ethanolamine, methylamine, isopropylamine, morpholine, dimethylamine and aniline. Sampling is by means of cassettes with impregnated glass fibre filters, while the analysis is based on high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry detection. This system, independent of the amine to be analyzed, was found to be simple and reliable. (106972)
CIS 07-874 Inventory of chemical CMR agents used in France in 2005. (French: Inventaire des agents chimiques CMR utilisés en France en 2005) Vincent R., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, Dec. 2006, No.205, p.83-96. Illus. 21 ref. (In French) Internet: A survey was commissioned by the French Ministry of Labour to identify chemical CMR agents (carcinogens, mutagens and reprotoxic agents) widely used in France in occupational settings, together with the number of potentially-exposed workers by sector of activity. National and European statistics and information collected from a representative sample of 2000 enterprises involved in 30 sectors were analysed to evaluate the annual consumption of 324 chemical CMR agents and several hundred petroleum derivatives. Findings are discussed. They show that 4.8 million tons of chemical CMR agents were consumed in France in 2005. Ten agents were consumed in quantities above 100,000 tons/year, while for 168 agents, consumption was very low or nil. The chemical and pharmaceutical industries were the main consumers of primary chemical CMR agents. (106984)
CIS 07-875 Exposure to cytostatic drugs - Toxicological risk in hospital settings. (French: Exposition aux cytostatiques - Risque toxicologique en milieu hospitalier) Roussel O., Guibala A., Belhadj-Tahar H., Sadeg N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, Dec. 2006, No.108, p.461-478. Illus. 35 ref. (In French) Internet: This study examines the toxic hazard linked to the exposure of health care personnel to cytostatic drugs in hospitals. The urinary presence of various cytostatic drugs was determined for three categories of staff of a large hospital in the Paris region: physicians and their assistants; nurses and assistant nurses; unexposed controls. Urinary and blood antiradical defence capacities were also determined. Two contaminations were observed in the nurse and assistant nurse category, but their cause is unclear. Other findings are discussed. An appendix includes the prevention protocol implemented in the hospital. (106986)
CIS 07-876 The ILO/WHO global programme for the elimination of silicosis (GPES). Fedotov I.A., African Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Dec. 2005, Vol.15, No.3, p.56-58. Illus. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: This article comments on the ILO/WHO programme for the elimination of silicosis (GPES) which was initiated in 1995. The objectives of the GPES are to promote the establishment of national programmes for the elimination of silicosis and to eliminate it as a worldwide occupational health problem by 2030. Contents: description of silicosis and historical developments aimed at its prevention; present situation; possibilities for elimination by implementing measures at the national and enterprise levels; global action; future efforts. (106826)
CIS 07-877 Environmental protection. (Spanish: Protección del medio ambiente) Pardo de Castro A.E., Niño Urrea C.I., Negrete Forero O.N., Gracia J.A., García F., Protección y seguridad, May-June 2005, Vol.51, No.301, p.50-71. Illus. 3 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Atmospheric pollution and climate change constitute global problems that can only be resolved by social and economic policies based on sustainable development. This collection of articles describes measures that have been implemented in Colombia: programme of technical assistance to Colombia within the framework of the Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants; socially-responsible enterprises that have implemented voluntary initiatives; implementation of the Montreal Protocol in Colombia; environmental management in electrical power distribution companies; environmental management systems; technologies for the surveillance of emissions of pollutants into the environment. (106810)
CIS 07-878 Action on pesticides under the programme on Work and Health in Southern Africa (WAHSA). Ngowi A.V.F., London L., African Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, May 2006, Vol.16, No.1, p.15-19. Illus. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: Pesticides are increasingly used in developing countries, where they represent a particular hazard because of the vulnerable agricultural populations who are poor, illiterate and in poor health. As a result, the Work and Health in Southern Africa (WAHSA) programme has launched a project aimed at developing skills and resources to manage the health and environmental impact of pesticides in the region. This article reviews the objectives, activities and main achievements of the WAHSA project on pesticides. (106939)
CIS 07-879 Health risks from exposure to metal-working fluids in machining and grinding operations. Li K., Aghazadeh F., Hatipkarasulu S., Ray T.G., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2003, Vol.9, No.1, p.75-95. 44 ref. (In English) Internet: Metalworking fluids (MWFs) are used in machining and grinding operations to cool the tool and workpiece, reduce the friction between the tool and workpiece, improve the surface characteristics of the workpiece and increase tool life and productivity. Health problems have been reported among workers exposed to MWFs, including incidences of respiratory, digestive and skin cancers, and increased rates of cough and phlegm. This article reviews and discusses issues concerning health risks from exposure to MWFs in machining and grinding operations, the various factors that influence the degree of exposure and control methods to reduce exposure. (106812)
CIS 07-880 Monitoring of chromium and nickel in biological fluids of stainless steel welders using the flux-cored-wire (FCW) welding method. Stridsklev I.C., Schaller K.H., Langård S., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nov. 2004, Vol.77, No.8, p.587-591. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigated exposure to chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) in flux-cored wire (FCW) welding of stainless steel. Seven FCW welders were monitored by measuring Cr and Ni in the workplace atmosphere, blood and urine. The welders were also questioned about exposure to Cr and Ni, the use of personal protective equipment and their smoking habits. The mean workplace air concentrations were 200µ/m3 for total Cr, 11.3µ/m3 for Cr(VI) and 50.4µ/m3 for Ni. For Cr in whole blood, plasma and erythrocytes, the mean levels after work were 1.25, 1.68 and 0.9µ/l respectively. For Ni, most of the measurements in whole blood and plasma were below the detection limits. Mean levels for Cr and Ni in the urine after work were 3.96 and 2.50 µ/g creatinine, respectively. Correlations between the Cr(VI) levels measured in air and the levels of total Cr in the measured biological fluids were found. Monitoring of Cr in the urine may be a versatile method for evaluating the exposure of FCW welders to Cr(VI) in air. The results seem to suggest that external and internal exposure to Cr and Ni in FCW welders welding stainless steel is low in general. (106919)
CIS 07-881 Sperm DNA damage correlates with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons biomarker in coke-oven workers. Wu M.T., et al., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2006, Vol.79, No.5, p.349-356. Illus. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to determine whether occupational exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in men has an adverse effect on semen quality. Forty-eight coke-oven workers, including 16 topside-oven workers and 32 side-oven workers, were studied. Ambient PAHs exposure, urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) levels and parameters of semen quality were determined. Findings are discussed. A potential risk of sperm dysfunction should be considered for workers occupationally exposed to high levels of PAHs. Cigarette smoking may aggravate this risk. Urinary 1-OHP was found to be a useful a biomarker for predicting sperm dysfunction. (106935)
CIS 07-882 Unexpected cause of raised benzene absorption in coke oven by-product workers. Colman R., Coleman A., Occupational Medicine, June 2006, Vol.56, No.4, p.269-271. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: Urinary biological monitoring for benzene (by measuring benzene metabolites) in coke oven by-product workers produced the unexpected result that two out of ten employees had significantly raised urinary S-phenylmercapturic acid. However, simultaneous personal air sampling showed no excessive airborne exposure. Possible causes for this finding were investigated having excluded inhalation as the route of uptake. It was suspected that skin absorption via contaminated overalls was the possible mechanism and a standard frequency for overall change was introduced. It was found that changing overalls after every four shifts reduced uptake levels to less than the equivalent of the 1ppm inhaled dose for all employees. It is concluded that skin absorption of benzene from contaminated overalls in coke oven by-product workers can be significant and therefore overalls should be changed on a regular and frequent basis. (106944)
CIS 07-883 Work in confined atmospheres - Detection is an absolute necessity. (French: Travail en atmosphère confinée - Une détection indispensable) Richard A.M., Prévention BTP, Nov. 2006, No.90, p.30-31. Illus. 5 ref. (In French) Internet: The lack of oxygen or the presence of toxic gases may have fatal consequences. While this risk is generally well understood for underground work, it is often overlooked in more common settings. To avoid all risks, the use of gas detectors is increasingly recommended. This article on work in confined atmospheres discusses the detection of pollutants, threshold limit values, the selection of gas detectors and personal protection. (106754)
CIS 07-884 Respiratory health of bus drivers in Hong Kong. Jones A.Y.M., Lam P.K.W., Dean E., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2006, Vol.79, No.5, p.414-418. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: This cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the lung function and respiratory symptoms of Hong Kong bus and tram drivers exposed to air pollutants. Demographic information, pulmonary function, respiratory symptoms and blood lead levels in 358 male drivers of air-conditioned buses (ACB) were compared with 129 male drivers of non-air-conditioned buses (NACB). Particulate matter, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide levels were measured in 16 air-conditioned and 15 non-air-conditioned trams along the same route. Findings are discussed. Overall, the lung function of NACB drivers was poorer than that of ACB drivers, probably due to prolonged exposure to air pollutants. However, the higher blood lead levels in ACB drivers could be the result of air recirculation. (106936)
CIS 07-885 Accidental pollution in the paper industry. (French: Les pollutions accidentelles dans l'industrie papetière) Jousserand S., Face au risque, Dec. 2006, No.428, p.21-24. Illus. (In French) Internet: On average, one in three accidents in the paper and board industry results in the environmental release of toxic or polluting liquids which reach surface waters or the water table. As an example, decontamination work was necessary following the emission of dioxins and furans caused by a transformer fire in a paper plant. Among the 287 accidents occurring in this sector and listed in the ARIA database, 83 resulted in the environmental release of dangerous substances in water, 29 in air and 9 in soil. This article summarizes the main types of accident and their consequences, provides examples of accident descriptions from the database and underscores the importance of containment systems. (106979)
CIS 07-886 Classification and labelling of petroleum substances according to the EU dangerous substance directive (CONCAWE recommendations - July 2005). Boogaard P., Dmytrasz B., King D., Waterman S., Wennington J., CONCAWE, Madouplein, 1210 Brussels, Belgium, July 2005. iv, 178p. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: This report offers advice with respect to the classification and labelling of petroleum substances entered in the European Inventory of Existing Chemical Substances (EINECS), according to the requirements of the Dangerous Substances Directive up to and including the 29th Adaptation to Technical Progress (see CIS 03-1024). A grouping system is followed so that substances having similar properties are considered together. Appendices include: extracts from Directive 2001/59/EC; listings of petroleum substances in EINECs number order; common terms and acronyms used in classification and labelling. (106806)
CIS 07-887 Chrysotile asbestos: Hazardous to humans, deadly to the Rotterdam Convention. Liotard K., et al, Building and Wood Workers' International, 54 route des Acacias, Genève 1227, Switzerland, 2006. Internet document (pdf format). 30p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: One of the aims of the Rotterdam Convention is to protect vulnerable populations in developing countries from hazardous substances by banning certain substances and making exporting countries share the risk with importing countries. This booklet contains a series of articles appealing for a ban on chrysotile asbestos, which is the only remaining form of asbestos not covered by the Convention. Authors include representatives of trade unions and non-governmental organizations. (106833)
CIS 07-888 Asbestos-related occupational diseases in Europe - Recognition, figures, specific systems. (French: Les maladies professionnelles liées à l'amiante en Europe - Reconnaissance, chiffres, dispositifs spécifiques) Eurogip, 55 rue de la Fédération, 75015 Paris, France, 2006. 47p. Illus. 68 ref. (In English, French) Internet: This document presents the conclusions of a survey of asbestos-related occupational diseases carried out by a working group involving experts of national insurance organisations of 12 European countries. Contents: recognition of asbestos-related diseases; number of cases recognised as occupational diseases; specific insurance systems for asbestos-related diseases; estimate of the mortality from pleural mesothelioma in Europe. In appendices: recognition criteria for asbestosis, lung cancer caused by asbestos, mesothelioma and pleural plaques. (106860)
CIS 07-889 Oil-based motor and heating fuels. (French: Combustibles et carburants pétroliers) Boust C., Lebreton R., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Oct. 2006. 8p. Illus. 9 ref. Price: EUR 2.50. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1390-3 (In French) Internet: Motor and heating fuels are widely used in occupational settings and in everyday life and can cause diseases and fire hazards. This booklet summarizes the main properties and hazards of heating oil, diesel fuel, kerosene and gasoline, together with measures for their safe use. (106863)
CIS 07-890 Formaldehyde. (French: Le formaldéhyde) Maison A., Pasquier E., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2006. 4p. Illus. 11 ref. (In French) Internet: Formaldehyde has been implicated in the incidence of nasopharyngeal cancer. The substance has widespread uses and is encountered in numerous occupational settings including woodworking, hospitals and the textile and food industries. It is produced by many natural and man-made sources, and is omnipresent in the environment. It has potent sensitizing and irritating properties, the latter suspected of being linked to the incidence of nasopharyngeal cancer. Contents of this information sheet on formaldehyde: properties; uses; health hazards; prevention measures. (106762)
CIS 07-891 Safe handling of cytotoxic drugs. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2003. 7p. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: This information sheet is aimed at persons who handle cytotoxic drugs, sometimes known as antineoplastic, anticancer or chemotherapy drugs. It provides useful information for pharmacists, medical and nursing staff, veterinary practitioners and others involved in handling these drugs, including people who clean up any spills. Topics addressed include the potential health hazards and health surveillance, legal framework and the duties of employers and employees. It also gives useful tips on ways of controlling and monitoring exposure and appropriate waste disposal. (106798)
CIS 07-892 Urban rodent control and the safe use of rodenticides by professional users. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov. 2003. 6p. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: This information sheet offers guidance to pest control professionals on minimizing the risks rodenticides may pose to human health, non-target animals and the environment. Contents: what to do before treatment of an infestation (site survey, risk assessment, choice of bait); guidance on treatment (using a variety of control methods, monitoring and record keeping); urban situations. (106800)
CIS 07-893 Methods for sampling surface contamination. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 2002. 8p. Illus. 34 ref. Price: GBP 12.00., ISBN 0-7176-2528-1 (In English) Internet: This document describes techniques and strategies to determine surface contamination. These are general methods used for the collection of surface residues, dusts and fibres from workplace surfaces in order to monitor skin exposure to harmful chemicals. Contents: surfaces which should be monitored; sampling methods and their limitations; method performance (wipe and adhesive sampling, sample pattern for wipe sampling, strategy for wipe sampling liquid residue surface contamination, other surface measurement techniques); analysis and interpretation of results. (106803)
CIS 07-894 Work with materials containing asbestos - Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov. 2006. viii, 100p. 33 ref. Price: GBP 13.50., ISBN 0-7176-6206-3 (In English) Internet: This Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) applies to all work with asbestos and explains the requirements of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006. It replaces the previous ACOPs, L27 (see CIS 05-176) and L28 (see CIS 05-676). It also replaces the guide to the Asbestos (Licensing) Regulations 1983, L11 (see 84-1847). It applies in particular to work on, or which disturbs or is liable to disturb, materials containing asbestos, asbestos sampling and laboratory analysis. It is particularly relevant to those who are responsible for the maintenance and repair of non-domestic premises where asbestos-containing materials are or are likely to be present. (106840)
CIS 07-895 Dealing with latex allergies at work. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2nd ed., 2005. iv, 16p. Illus. (In English) Internet: The term "latex allergies" is used to describe various health problems associated with the use of rubber products, such as skin rashes and allergies noted in health care workers and other workers with jobs exposing them to rubber products. Among health care workers, such problems may be related to the increased use of rubber gloves for protection against infectious diseases such as hepatitis and AIDS. This booklet explains the health problems that may be caused by using such products. It focuses on natural rubber latex protein allergy, its risk factors and its prevention. (106955)
CIS 07-896 Indoor air quality: A guide for building owners, manager, and occupants. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2005. 42p. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: This guide is aimed at owners, renters or operators of buildings in the Canadian province of British Columbia, to help them maintain good indoor air quality, prevent outdoor air problems and correct problems that may arise. It also provides guidance on indoor air quality requirements in occupational safety and health legislation. Contents: basic aspects; preventing indoor air quality problems; resolving indoor air quality problems; forms and checklists. (106967)
CIS 07-897 DEMETER: Documents for the medical evaluation of reprotoxic products. (French: DEMETER: Documents pour l'évaluation médicale des produits toxiques vis-à-vis de la reproduction) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2006. CD-ROM (requires a PC with Windows, a web browser and Acrobat reader). Price: EUR 20.00. (In French) Internet: This guide in the form of a CD-ROM provides guidance for medical practitioners, and particularly occupational physicians, on the evaluation of reproductive hazards resulting from exposures of men and women to toxic substances in the workplace. It contains sheets summarizing the current understanding of the reproductive toxicity of some sixty substances. (106871)
CIS 07-898 Major accidents and incidents - Inventory for the period 1992-2005. (French: Les accidents technologiques - Inventaire de la période 1992-2005) Trouvé T., Préventique-Sécurité, July-Aug. 2006, No.88, p.4-15. Illus. (In French) Internet: The ARIA (analysis, research and information on accidents) database includes all serious or potentially serious occurrences of accidents and incidents in France. This article classifies the data concerning the 22,000 accidents and incidents listed in ARIA that occurred between 1992 and 2005. Data are expressed by sector of activity and substance involved, as well as by the causes and consequences of the accidents. Other topics addressed include trends in fatal accidents between 1992 and 2005, the importance of information, and sharing and applying the knowledge gained. (106758)
CIS 07-899 Pressurized gas containers - Explosion hazards. (French: Capacités des gaz sous pression - Risques d'explosion) Heudier L., Proust C., Couillet J.C., Préventique-Sécurité, July-Aug. 2006, No.88, p.25-29. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article addresses the issue of explosion hazards from pressure vessels. It explains what happens when a pressure vessel explodes and reviews existing numerical methods for modelling these explosions. It also describes the Difrex method developed by INERIS for the evaluation of the overpressure effects following an explosion or the loss of containment of a liquid. (106760)
CIS 07-900 Extinguishers: Ensuring a reliable installation. (French: Extincteurs: pour une installation fiable) Douté M., Face au risque, Oct. 2006, No.426, p.27-28, 30. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article describes the main factors to be taken into consideration for selecting efficient fire extinguishers, namely their characteristics and certification, as well as for the selection of installers and maintenance services providers. Other topics addressed include responsibilities of the manager of the premises and training of personnel in using the extinguishers. (106777)
CIS 07-901 APSAD Rule R17: Natural smoke-removal systems. (French: La règle APSAD R17: systèmes de désenfumage naturel) Face au risque, Oct. 2006, No.426, p.55-56. Illus. (In French) Internet: This information note comments on the APSAD (French plenary assembly of damage insurance providers) rule R17, which applies to the installation and maintenance of natural smoke-removing systems, which involve the installation of systems allowing the natural evacuation of smoke and heat. (106779)
CIS 07-902 ATEX - New category 3 electrical equipment and systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres. (Spanish: ATEX - Nuevos aparatos y sistemas eléctricos de categoría 3, para atmósferas potencialmente explosivas) Moreno Salas E., Calvo Sáez J.A., Prevención, July-Sep. 2006, No.177, p.42-56. Illus. 6 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article discusses the ATEX directives (directives on explosive atmospheres) and presents classification criteria for electrical equipment and systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, together with the requirements with respect to labelling and means of protection. The classification of dangerous premises into zones as a function of the likelihood of the formation of explosive atmospheres is also discussed. Practical guidance on the use of category 3 electrical equipment is provided for various tasks and sectors of activity: changing of batteries, spray painting, distilleries, woodworking and the food industry. (106784)
CIS 07-903 Statistical analysis of incidents reported in the Greek petrochemical industry for the period 1997-2003. Konstandinidou M., Nivolianitou Z., Markatos N., Kiradounis C., Journal of Hazardous Materials, July 2006, Vol.135, No.1-3, p.1-9. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: The European Union has established the Major Accident Reporting System (MARS) for the reporting of major accidents in the Member States. However, the occurrence of major accidents is not the only measure that can characterize the safety status of an establishment; neither are they the only events from which important lessons can be learned. Near misses, industrial incidents without major consequences, as well as occupational accidents also provide useful information. This article analyses all reported accidents and incidents in the Greek petrochemical industry between 1997 and 2003. (106949)
CIS 07-904 PPIH: A tool for preventing industrial accidents. (French: PPRT: un outil pour prévenir les accidents technologiques) Parot N., Face au risque, Jan. 2007, No.429, p.18-20. Illus. (In French) Internet: The aim of the plan for the prevention of industrial hazards (PPIH) is to limit the exposure of the neighbouring population to the effects of industrial accidents involving high-risk installations according to the Seveso classification. It consists of a preventive approach built around the control of existing and future land use, together with the reduction of risks at the source. This article discusses the French regulatory aspects related to the development and application of a PPIH. (106974)
CIS 07-905 Pyrotechnics: Hazard evaluation. (French: Pyrotechnie: une évaluation des risques) Aufauvre L., Marlair G., Michot C., Face au risque, Nov. 2006, No.427, p.23-25. Illus. (In French) Internet: Several serious accidents have occurred in recent years in Europe and around the world during the storage and use of pyrotechnic products for entertainment or industrial use. The generalized use of airbags in automobiles has considerably increased the consumption of pyrotechnic products in industry, making it even more necessary to manage the hazards during their storage or handling. This article reviews the current regulatory situation in France in this field. (106976)
CIS 07-906 Unusual fire in a sulfur tank. (French: Incendie atypique sur un bac de soufre) Dosne R., Face au risque, Dec. 2006, No.428, p.28-32. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article describes a fire that occurred in a sulfur tank located in a sulfuric acid plant in the industrial area of a French port. Topics addressed: causal factors (heat wave, lightning); propagation; intervention of firefighting services; organization of the plant's safety services; lessons learned. (106980)
CIS 07-907 Fire - Hazards on construction sites and in workshops. (French: Incendie - Des risques sur chantier et en atelier) Richard A.M., Prévention BTP, Dec. 2006, No.91, p.30-32. Illus. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: Topics addressed in the article on the prevention of fire hazards on construction sites and in workshops: construction site preparation; housekeeping; equipment and layout of premises; regulatory provisions governing the evaluation of fire hazards; selection of fire extinguishers; fire permits; fire walls and fire doors for segregating work involving flames and flammable material storage areas; smoke detectors. (106996)
CIS 07-908 Special visual effects involving explosives or pyrotechnics used in film and television productions. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2002. 4p. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: In film or television productions, explosives and flammable materials are used to create the impression of a dramatic event. This information sheet provides guidance on the safe use of explosives or pyrotechnics in this sector. Topics addressed: United Kingdom legislation; hazards; competence of supervisors and technicians; responsibilities; hazard evaluation; control measures; briefing on the expected effect, the hazards and the controls; execution; misfires. (106794)
CIS 07-909 A short guide to making your premises safe from fire. Department for Communities and Local Government, DCLG Publications, PO Box 236, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 7NB, United Kingdom, 2006. 9p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This booklet provides simple and practical advice to persons responsible for fire safety in small and medium businesses. In particular, it provides guidance on how to ensure compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. It includes a proposed five-step approach for fire safety risk assessment and examples of how to modify the layout of premises to reduce the hazards. (106834)
CIS 07-910 Developing process safety indicators - A step-by-step guide for chemical and major hazard industries. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2006. iv, 48p. Illus. 9 ref. Price: GBP 11.95., ISBN 0-7176-6180-6 (In English) Internet: This guidance is aimed at senior managers and safety professionals within organizations that wish to develop performance indicators to give improved assurance that major hazard risks are under control. Although primarily aimed at major hazard organizations, the generic model for establishing a performance measurement system described in this guide can equally be applied to other enterprises requiring a high level of assurance that systems and procedures continue to operate as intended. A six-stage process which can be adopted by organizations wishing to implement a programme of performance monitoring for process safety risks is described. (106839)
CIS 07-911 Explosive mixtures - 1. Gases and vapours. (French: Les mélanges explosifs - 1. Gaz et vapeurs) Petit J.M., Poyard J.L., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Dec. 2004. 96p. Illus. 93 ref. Price: EUR 10.20. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1183-8 (In French) Internet: This practical guide proposes safety measures for preventing explosion hazards in industrial settings when working with flammable gases and vapours or related to the presence of these substances on the site. Applying the safety measures mentioned in the guide implies prior understanding of the combustion and explosion properties of the gases or vapours of the products concerned. Various organizational measures aimed at reducing explosion hazards and ensuring the effectiveness of the technical measures are also proposed, including the setting-up of a programme for controlling safety and maintenance, signalling of dangerous areas and prohibiting access to these areas, writing-up appropriate operating instructions, and ensuring operator information and training. (106878)
CIS 07-912 Explosive mixtures - 2. Combustible dusts. (French: Les mélanges explosifs - 2. Poussières combustibles) Petit J.M., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Oct. 2006. 62p. Illus. 86 ref. Price: EUR 8.20. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1386-5 (In French) Internet: This practical guide proposes safety measures for preventing explosion hazards in industrial settings when working with combustible dusts or related to the presence of these substances on the site. Applying the safety measures mentioned in the guide requires a prior understanding of the combustion and explosion properties of the dusts concerned. Various organizational measures aimed at reducing explosion hazards and ensuring the effectiveness of the technical measures are also proposed, including the setting-up of a programme for controlling safety and maintenance, signalling of dangerous areas and prohibiting access to these areas, writing-up appropriate operating instructions, and ensuring operator information and training. (106879)
CIS 07-913 Code of practice for the installation and maintenance of emergency lighting and power supply systems in buildings. SNP Corporation Ltd, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #18-01, Great World City East Tower, Singapore 237994, Republic of Singapore, 2000. 56p. Illus. Price: SGD 47.00 (excluding GST)., ISBN 9971-67-830-6 (In English) Internet: This standard covers the visual conditions necessary to alleviate panic and permit safe evacuation of building occupants in the event of failure of the normal lighting. It also prescribes requirements for the equipment and installation methods used to provide the power supply for the emergency lighting. (106847)
CIS 07-914 Memorandum of guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 - Guidance on Regulations. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., Mar. 2007. iv, 50p. Illus. 41 ref. Price: GBP 11.95., ISBN 978-0-7176-6228-9 (In English) Internet: This guidance publication contains the text of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (see CIS 89-1439), together with extensive explicatory text and commentary. The guidance is relevant to all work activities and promises except mines and quarries, certain offshore installations and certain ships. A list of relevant British Standards is included in the appendix. Updates and replaces CIS 03-385. (106848)
CIS 07-915 Exposure of workers to vibrations - New European Directive 2002/44/EC. (French: Exposition vibratoire des travailleurs - Nouvelle directive européenne 2002/44/CE) Baffoin J.M., Revue Technique Apave, Jan.-Mar. 2006, No.313, p.10. Illus. (In French) Internet: Only recently have the harmful effects caused by vibrations entered the scope of regulatory action. The benchmark regulation is European Directive 2002/44/EC, transposed into French legislation in 2005. This article comments on the main provisions of the directive. Contents: physical effects (vibrations transmitted to the hand-arm system and to the whole body); threshold limit values; vibration measurement; preventive measures. (106881)
CIS 07-916 Main consequences of the lowering of noise exposure thresholds. (French: Bruit au travail: nouveaux seuils d'exposition sonore) Perez M., Santé et Sécurité au Travail Actualités, Nov.-Dec. 2006, No.95, p.10-11. 1 ref. (In French) Internet: This article comments on the main consequences of the new lower noise exposure threshold levels in France. When noise levels exceed 80dB, hearing protection must be supplied to workers and noise-exposed workers have the right to hearing tests. The steps to be followed to comply with the revised regulations are summarized: evaluation of noise levels within the enterprise; evaluation of exposure to noise while wearing hearing protection; implementation of prevention measures. (106887)
CIS 07-917 The joint effect of noise exposure and job complexity on distress and injury risk among men and women: The cardiovascular occupational risk factors determination in Israel study. Melamed S., Fried Y., Froom P., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2004, Vol.46, No.10, p.1023-1032. Illus. 50 ref. (In English) Internet: This study sought to explore the possibility that exposure to noise at work might interact with job complexity and gender to affect the incidence of occupational injury among industrial employees. A total of 4084 men and 1643 women from 21 industrial plants in Israel were examined, while controlling for a number of potential confounding variables. Logistic regression results showed that the predictor variables interacted and that the highest injury risk (odds ratio = 2.72) was observed in women with high noise exposure and high job complexity, compared with the referents scoring low on these predictors. The comparable injury risk in men was only 1.3. It is concluded that the joint exposure to noise and high job complexity is disruptive, resulting in higher distress and occupational injury risk, particularly among women. (106926)
CIS 07-918 Noise pollution at the workplace: Improved means of prevention. (French: Nuisances sonores au travail: mieux les combattre) Barruyer C., Prévention BTP, Dec. 2006, No.91, p.54-56. Illus. 2 ref. (In French) Internet: European Directive 2003/10/EC (see CIS 06-253) on noise at the place of work came into force in France in July 2006. New rules require employers to protect noise-exposed workers. The construction sector is particularly concerned by these new provisions, which are discussed in this article. Topics addressed: responsibilities of employers with respect to exposure evaluation; defining the thresholds above which employers are required to take action; information of personnel on the risks they face; supply of hearing protection; noise level thresholds requiring routine checks and systematic audiometric testing. (106998)
CIS 07-919 EU Directive, ICNIRP guidelines and Polish legislation on electromagnetic fields. Karpowicz J., Hietanen M., Gryz K., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.2, p.125-136. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: This review article describes the general provisions of and the philosophy behind European Directive 2004/40/EC (CIS 03-1039) and ICNIRP (International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection) guidelines. As an example of national legislation on the protection of workers against excessive electromagnetic field exposure, regulations established in Poland are summarized. The problems of the practical implementation of the EU Directive's provisions are discussed. (106822)
CIS 07-920 Electromagnetic fields in offices. Sandström M., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.2, p.137-147. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: This review article discusses the implications of the increased use of electric and electronic equipment in offices, including the increasingly complex nature of daily exposure to electromagnetic fields due to the wide variety of frequencies used. Focus has shifted from monitors as the dominating source of electromagnetic fields to other electronic equipment, cabling, nearby substations, power lines and stray currents in buildings. In the last five years, wireless communications based on devices using radio frequency waves have become common. To a certain degree, all these technologies add to the complicated issue of the wide range of frequencies found in offices. The exposure of office workers is generally considered to be low and not in conflict with the existing guidelines, but there are a number of measures that can be taken to reduce electromagnetic fields in offices as a precautionary measure. (106823)
CIS 07-921 Health risk assessment of occupational exposure to a magnetic field from magnetic resonance imaging devices. Karpowicz J., Gryz K., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.2, p.155-167. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: Health care personnel who operate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices are exposed to magnetic fields at levels depending both on the type of the magnet and on the ergonomic design of the MRI device. This article presents methods used for measuring and assessing workers' exposure. It also discusses the results of inspection measurements carried out next to several MRI devices. The variability of workers' exposure supports the need for monitoring occupational exposure. International exposure assessment standards and guidelines of the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), American Conference of Governmental and Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), the European Commission and Poland are compared. (106824)
CIS 07-922 Electromagnetic fields: Principles of exposure mitigation. Falsaperla R., Spagnoli G., Rossi P., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.2, p.195-200. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: The basic principles for reducing exposure to electromagnetic fields are reviewed. Measures to reduce exposure can be divided into organizational and technical actions. Both strategies are briefly analysed and the basic principles of the theory of shielding are presented. A definition of shielding effectiveness is given, and the results from the general transmission lines theory are presented. Practical situations of shielding static and time-varying electric and magnetic fields are discussed on the basis of the physical properties of the fields and of the shield. (106825)
CIS 07-923 Occupational exposure, epidemiology and compensation. Wakeford R., Occupational Medicine, May 2006, Vol.56, No.3, p.173-179. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey examines occupational exposure to ionizing radiation, along with epidemiological aspects and compensation for diseases caused by exposure. It is based on data from the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) and the Radiation Protection Division of the Health Protection Agency of the United Kingdom. (106945)
CIS 07-924 Radiation protection: Effects, doses (I). (French: Radioprotection, les effets, les doses (I)) Lefeuvre B., Face au risque, Jan. 2007, No.429, p.15-17. Illus. (In French) Internet: Radiation protection is of relevance to employees and self-employed individuals who work in the presence of ionizing radiation generated electrically (such as X-rays) or by radioactive sources, as well in the case of the risk of contamination by radioactive substances. This article on radiation protection covers the immediate effects of radiation (damage to living tissues), the longer-term effects (DNA damage), the need for radiation protection and the selection of a suitable level of protection, taking into account both technical and cost factors. (106973)
CIS 07-925 Evaluation of anthropodynamic mannequins for the laboratory vibration testing of seats. (French: Evaluation de mannequins anthropodynamiques destinés aux essais de vibrations des sièges en laboratoires) Nélisse P., Boileau P.E., Rakheja S., Patra S., Boutin 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, 2006. x, 67p. Illus. 28 ref. Price: CAD 10.60. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-080-0 (In French) Internet: By using a simulator that reproduces a vehicle's vibration environment, laboratory tests can determine whether suspension seats effectively fulfill their function of reducing vibration. Defined by an ISO standard, the current method requires the participation of human subjects of different weights to evaluate the performance of these seats. This study describes the evaluation of two types of mannequins developed in France and Germany with respect to their ability to simulate the human interface during vibration testing of various types of suspension seats. The results of this study will contribute to current standardization work on the definition of the design requirements of mannequins intended for laboratory tests on vehicle seats. (106870)
CIS 07-926 Data collection and verification of the agreement between the corrected air temperature and the WBGT in outdoor thermal environments. (French: Cueillette de données et vérification de la concordance entre la température de l'air corrigée et l'indice WBGT sous des ambiances thermiques extérieures) Dessureault P.C., Gressard B., 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, 2006. iii, 20p. Illus. 12 ref. Price: CAD 7.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-076-0 (In French) Internet: The objective of this study was to verify the correspondence between the method for corrected air temperature proposed in a heat stroke prevention guide based on the corrected air temperature and the WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) normally used in workplaces. It was found that when the air temperature is read in the workplace, use of the corrected air temperature obtained after application of correction factors for humidity and sunshine is very conservative and often even overestimates the level of thermal stress expressed by the WBGT measured in the same location. However, strenuous work under cloudy conditions is an exception, with a 23% underestimation of the exposure. This study proposes that use of the guide should therefore be limited to light and moderately-strenuous medium work. Several recommendations are made to improve and simplify the processes proposed in the guide. (106868)
CIS 07-927 Hazards of confined spaces. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2nd ed., 2006. ii, 19p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Contents of this booklet on the prevention of hazards during work in confined spaces: definition of confined space; hazardous atmospheres (toxic gases, explosive gases, oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor atmospheres); mechanical, physical and electrical hazards; confined space entry programme. It includes short descriptions of accidents taken from a variety of industries. (106956)
CIS 07-928 Hazards of confined spaces for municipalities and the construction industry. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2nd ed., 2006. ii, 20p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Contents of this booklet on the prevention of hazards during work in confined spaces, with a focus on municipalities and the construction industry: definition of confined space; hazardous atmospheres (toxic gases, explosive gases, oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor atmospheres); mechanical, physical and electrical hazards; confined space entry programme. It includes short descriptions of accidents specific to municipalities and the construction industry. (106959)
CIS 07-929 Methods for reducing noise within the enterprise. Available methods and how to select them. (French: Techniques de réduction du bruit en entreprise. Quelles solutions, comment choisir) Canetto P., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Sep. 2006. 123p. Illus. Price: EUR 12.20. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1381-4 (In French) Internet: This guide describes various methods for reducing noise in the workplace. Contents: physical aspects of the generation, propagation and reception of noise; types of noise reduction measures (reduction at source, control of propagation or reception); diagnosis of the situation and choice of solution; general information on acoustics and acoustic measurements. (106880)
CIS 07-930 Hypothermia - Surviving the cold. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2004. 12p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Working in a cold environment is part of the job for many British Columbia workers, who face the risk of hypothermia. This booklet provides a basic understanding of when and why hypothermia occurs, how to protect oneself against hypothermia, how to recognize the onset of hypothermia and how to treat victims of hypothermia. (106960)
CIS 07-931 Preventing heat stress at work. (Spanish: Prevención del estrés térmico en el trabajo; Vietnamese: Ngan Ngua Duoi Suc Vi Nong Tai Noi Lam VIec) Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2007. iii, 20p. Illus. (In Chinese, English, Punjabi, Spanish, Vietnamese) Internet: Many jobs require working in hot environments. Working in the heat and doing heavy physical work can affect the body's cooling system and lead to heat stress. If heat stress is not recognized and treated in the early stages, more serious and possibly fatal conditions can develop rapidly. This booklet provides a basic overview of factors that increase the risk of heat stress, how to recognize and treat heat stress and how to prevent heat stress. (106969)
CIS 07-932 Portable nuclear moisture/density gauges in the construction industry. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, rev. ed. Aug. 2002. 4p. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: This information sheet outlines the radiation risks associated with nuclear moisture/density gauges and provides guidance on the main safety measures. Contents: radiation risks; consultation with a radiation protection adviser; notification requirements; prior risk assessment; controlled areas; designation and monitoring of persons likely to exceed certain radiation doses; operator training; area monitoring; storage and location records; working on site; maintenance and cleaning; contingency plans; waste disposal. Replaces CIS 96-1474. (106793)
CIS 07-933 Hazards of confined spaces for shipping and transportation industries. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2nd ed., 2006. ii, 20p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Contents of this booklet on the prevention of hazards during work in confined spaces, with a focus on the shipping and transportation industries: definition of confined space; hazardous atmospheres (toxic gases, explosive gases, oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor atmospheres); mechanical, physical and electrical hazards; confined space entry programme. It includes short descriptions of accidents specific to the shipping and transportation industries. (106957)
CIS 07-934 Hazards of confined spaces for food and beverage industries. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2nd ed., 2006. ii, 20p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Contents of this booklet on the prevention of hazards during work in confined spaces, with a focus on the food and beverage industries: definition of confined space; hazardous atmospheres (toxic gases, explosive gases, oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor atmospheres); mechanical, physical and electrical hazards; confined space entry programme. It includes short descriptions of accidents specific to the food and beverage industries. (106958)
CIS 07-935 Lifting of persons using platforms mounted on elevating trucks. (Spanish: Elevación de personas mediante plataformas de trabajo acopladas a carretillas elevadoras) Ortiz de Urbina Ugarte J., Pujana Garteiz J., Olaciregui Garbizu I., Azkoaga Bengoetxea I. M., Prevención, July-Sep. 2006, No.177, p.20-31. Illus. 15 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Various types of platforms and cradles are available on the market, consisting of simple structures capable of holding one or several persons but not equipped with adequate control devices. These platforms are sold with the EC certification and a declaration of conformity with the machinery directive. However, when used for work at height mounted on elevating trucks not specifically designed for the purpose, they are covered by the "exceptional character" provision of Spanish legislation on the use of work equipment. This article discusses some of the inconsistencies of the legislation covering the safety of platforms mounted on elevating trucks used for work at height, together with regulations adopted by several other countries on this subject. (106782)
CIS 07-936 Legislative framework covering the safety of machinery and work equipment. (Spanish: Marco legislativo relativo a la seguridad de máquinas y equipos de trabajo) Carol Llopart S., Prevención, July-Sep. 2006, No.177, p.32-41. Illus. 2 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article summarizes the legislative framework covering the safety of machinery and work equipment. It begins with a review of relevant European directives and their transposition into Spanish legislation, followed by a comment on the harmonization of the standards resulting from these directives and the certification of machinery and equipment. Finally, the article emphasizes the importance of verifying that machinery installed within an enterprise complies with legal requirements. (106783)
CIS 07-937 Injuries caused by rock landslides in underground mines. (Spanish: Lesiones por derrumbes de rocas en minas subterráneas) Protección y seguridad, May-June 2005, Vol.51, No.301, p.30-33. Illus. 5 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Workers in underground quarries face a high risk of mortality due to the collapse of mine ceilings or walls. This article presents an analysis carried out by the U.S. National Institute for Occupational safety and Health (NIOSH) of 156 cases of fatal and non-fatal injuries caused by rock landslides in the USA between 1983 and 1999. Various preventive measures are proposed. (106809)
CIS 07-938 Fatal strike against a formwork element. (French: Choc mortel sur une banche) Lafargue S., Prévention BTP, Nov. 2006, No.90, p.37-38. Illus. (In French) Internet: This information sheet describes a fatal accident on a construction site involving the fall of a worker holding on to an unstable prefabricated formwork element. Measures that would have avoided this accident include: ensuring the stability of the formwork using framed palettes; prohibiting access to unaccompanied persons; providing first aid training; displaying the emergency call procedure next to the telephone. (106755)
CIS 07-939 Working on scaffolds: Good practices. (French: Travail sur échafaudages: les bonnes pratiques) Coune I., Face au risque, Nov. 2006, No.427, p.26-27. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article summarizes the main provisions of French Decree 2004-924 on the safety of scaffolding, which transposes European Directive 2001/45/EC (see CIS 03-1045) by including rules applying specifically to the construction sector. It applies to all workers who work at height. It covers means of access and imposes an obligation to evaluate hazards and take appropriate preventive measures, including the training of workers and inspection of equipment. (106977)
CIS 07-940 Determinants of accident proneness: A case-control study in railway workers. Gauchard G.C., Mur J.M., Touron C., Benamghar L., Dehaene D., Perrin P., Chau N., Occupational Medicine, May 2006, Vol.56, No.3, p.187-190. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: A case-control study was carried out among 1305 French railway workers who had suffered an occupational injury during 1999-2000 and 1305 uninjured controls, all male. A standardized questionnaire was completed by an occupational physician in the presence of the subject. The data were analysed using logistic regression. Having more than one injury was associated with short service in the present job, younger age, sleep disorders, smoking, requesting a job change, physical disability and lack of physical activity. Safety training was negatively related to injury frequency. Short service in the present job was the only significant factor for single injuries. This study identified a number of work and individual factors that predicted occupational injury frequency and may be useful in designing preventive measures. (106946)
CIS 07-941 Safety in window cleaning using rope access techniques. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2003. 6p. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: Window cleaning increasingly involves the use of rope access which can cause accidents with severe injuries. These accidents may often due to the misunderstanding of the complexities of using this method. This information sheet sets out practical precautions to help window cleaners reduce risks to as low a level as possible, taking into account the needs of the job. Contents: choice of access method; general requirements for a safe system of work; management and planning; personnel involved; access equipment; control of working equipment; types of rope access methods; specific requirements for rope access operations; use of work equipment; rescue; first aid; relevant legislation. (106799)
CIS 07-942 Code of practice for safe use of powered counterbalanced forklifts. SNP Corporation Ltd, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #18-01, Great World City East Tower, Singapore 237994, Republic of Singapore, 2004. 25p. Illus. 5 ref. Price: SGD 27.00 (excluding GST)., ISBN 981-4154-15-6 (In English) Internet: This standard specifies the safety requirements for the manufacture, application, operation and maintenance of powered counterbalance forklifts. It lays down the responsibilities of the various parties involved. It does not apply to industrial trucks that do not apply lifting with fork arms and the use of counterweights for balance. (106841)
CIS 07-943 Specification for personal protective equipment - Footwear. Part 1: Safety footwear. Part 2: Test methods for footwear. SNP Corporation Ltd, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #18-01, Great World City East Tower, Singapore 237994, Republic of Singapore, 2005. 38p. Illus. 2 ref. Price: SGD 34.00 (excluding GST), (Part 1); 84p. Illus. 3 ref. Price: SGD 73.00 (excluding GST), (Part 2)., ISBN 981-4154-09-1 (Part 1), ISBN 981-4154-10-5 (Part 2) (In English) Internet: Part 1 of this standard specifies basic and additional (optional) requirements for safety footwear, while part 2 specifies methods for testing footwear designed as personal protective equipment. (106844)
CIS 07-944 Preventing falls from boom-type mobile elevating work platforms. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2003. 4p. Illus. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: This information sheet on the prevention of falls from boom-type mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) covers vehicle-mounted, self-propelled and trailer-mounted platforms. Between 1996 and 2001, five fatal accidents were reported in the United Kingdom when MEWPs collapsed, overturned, were struck by vehicles or loads or collided against fixed structures. Contents: assessing the risk; controlling the risk (selection of suitable equipment, ensuring safety at the site, training the operators); use of fall protection; work restraint system; legal aspects. (106791)
CIS 07-945 Specification for metal scaffoldings - Part 1: Frame scaffoldings. SNP Corporation Ltd, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #18-01, Great World City East Tower, Singapore 237994, Republic of Singapore, 2006. 43p. Illus. Price: SGD 40.00 (excluding GST)., ISBN 981-4154-29-6 (In English) Internet: This standard specifies the minimum safety requirements for metal scaffolding for use as temporary structures on which persons work. These structures also serve to temporarily stock the materials used. The standard is applicable to construction, maintenance, repair and demolition work in building, shipbuilding and ship repairing, petrochemical and other industries. (106842)
CIS 07-946 Specification for steel tubes and fittings used in tubular scaffolding. SNP Corporation Ltd, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #18-01, Great World City East Tower, Singapore 237994, Republic of Singapore, 2005. 25p. Illus. Price: SGD 27.00 (excluding GST)., ISBN 981-4154-08-3 (In English) Internet: This standard specifies the minimum safety requirements for steel tubes and related fittings for use in tubular scaffolding as temporary structures for access or on which persons work. These structures also serve to temporarily stock the materials used. The standard is applicable to construction, maintenance, repair and demolition work in building, ship building and repair, petrochemical and other industries. (106843)
CIS 07-947 Code of practice for supervision of structural works. SNP Corporation Ltd, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #18-01, Great World City East Tower, Singapore 237994, Republic of Singapore, 2005. 65p. Illus. Price: SGD 60.00 (excluding GST)., ISBN 981-4154-16-4 (In English) Internet: Proper supervision of structural works can minimize construction errors and improve productivity at construction worksites. This standard provides guidance on the supervision of structural works at construction sites. It covers the supervision of shallow foundations, piling works, in situ concrete, pre-cast concrete, pre-stressing of concrete, structural steelworks and structural timber. (106846)
CIS 07-948 Know-how and skills required of slingers. (French: Compétences requises et savoir-faire des élingueurs) Organisme Professionnel de Prévention du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics (OPPBTP), Tour Amboise, 204, rond-point du Pont-de-Sèvres, 92516 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France, 1994. 10p., ISBN 2-7354-0235-5 (In French) Internet: This booklet describes the skills required of slingers and sets out the potential hazards, causes of accidents, preventive measures and relevant regulations. (106876)
CIS 07-949 Earthmoving work. (French: Travaux de terrassement) Organisme Professionnel de Prévention du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics (OPPBTP), Tour Amboise, 204, rond-point du Pont-de-Sèvres, 92516 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France, 1995. 63p. Illus., ISBN 2-7354-0255-X (In French) Internet: This safety guide on earthmoving operations provides guidance for construction site managers on the preparation and organization of the site, safe working methods and safety in the use and maintenance of earthmoving equipment. (106877)
CIS 07-950 Preventing injuries from installing drywall. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2006. 4p. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: Workers who handle drywall sheets are at high risk of overexertion and fall injuries. This information sheet includes several short descriptions of typical accidents in this job, together with NIOSH to recommendations for preventing injury. (106962)
CIS 07-951 Road hazards during work trips. Guide to hazard evaluation. (French: Le risque routier en mission. Guide d'évaluation des risques) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Sep. 2006. 31p. Illus. Price: EUR 6.10. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1389-X (In French) Internet: Many employees spend a large part of their working day at the wheel of a vehicle, during trips carried out on behalf of their employers. These workers are exposed to road accidents as a result of their work. This booklet provides guidance for enterprises on the evaluation this occupational hazard and the implementation of suitable prevention measures. (106862)
CIS 07-952 Beam panel saws. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2003. 2p. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: This information sheet describes hazards and precautions in the use of travelling rise and fall crosscut saws used to cut panel boards. Advice is given on the guarding of the saw and blade clamp, saw housings, cutting area and panel handling equipment, the use of photo-electric guarding, maintenance and the need for training in safe working methods. Replaces CIS 91-514. (106797)
CIS 07-953 Combined water and rock activities: Guidance for providers. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2002. 3p. (In English) Internet: Leisure activities such as canyoning and adventure swimming may be hazardous. This information sheet spells out good safety practices for activity providers. Contents: risk assessment (impacts with solid objects, drowning, hypothermia); controlling the hazards (instructor competence, information of participants, picking the venue, selecting clothing and equipment, forecast of conditions, emergency actions plans, first aid); relevant qualifications. (106792)
CIS 07-954 Stunts, fights and other potentially hazardous production activities. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2002. 4p. 2 ref. (In English) Internet: This information sheet provides guidance for the film and television industries on the risks associated with stunts and on their safe execution. Topics addressed: United Kingdom legislation; hazards; competence; responsibilities; risk assessment; control measures; briefing on the risks; rehearsal; execution. (106795)
CIS 07-955 Buildings used for locations and temporary studios in film, television and theatre. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2002. 4p. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: This information sheet provides guidance on working safely in buildings used as locations or temporary studios in the film, television and theatre industry. Some of these buildings may be derelict, in a poor state of repair or designed for other functions, creating various safety and health problems requiring control. Topics addressed: United Kingdom legislation; hazards; responsibilities; control measures (with respect to the building structure, fire hazards, machinery and equipment, electricity, gas and water supplies, hazardous substances; debris, pests and vermin); workers' welfare facilities. A checklist for assessing the safety of buildings is included. (106796)
CIS 07-956 Exposures to biological agents in occupational settings. (French: Les expositions aux agents biologiques dans le milieu de travail) Guignon N., Sandret N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, Dec. 2006, No.108, p.485-493. (In French) Internet: This article presents and analyses the findings of the SUMER 2002-2003 survey (medical surveillance of occupational hazards) in France on exposures to biological agents in occupational settings. 15% of the French workforce (2.6 million persons) were employed in occupations possibly involving exposure to biological agents. Only a few of these agents were pathogenic or could evolve into pathogens under certain conditions. 54% of the exposed persons consisted of workers in contact with biological agents of human origin, 8% were in contact with animals and 23% worked in waste disposal or were involved in handling wastes or foodstuffs. More than half of the potentially-exposed workers belonged to the health care sector, where 66% of employees were exposed. Other findings are discussed. (106988)
CIS 07-957 Vaccination in the workplace. (French: Les vaccinations en milieu de travail) Ferreira M., Travail et sécurité, Dec. 2006, No.668, p.47-49. Illus. 2 ref. (In French) Internet: The prevention of biological hazards in the workplace is required by French labour laws. Depending on the hazards identified, preventive measures may include personal and collective protection (hygiene measures, technical measures, personal protective equipment), as well as vaccination. This article summarizes French regulations concerning vaccination in the workplace. Vaccination against hepatitis B, tetanus, influenza and polio are mandatory for persons working in health care, while immunization against typhoid is required for persons working in medical laboratories. (107000)
CIS 07-958 Disability among U.S. Army personnel vaccinated against anthrax. Sulsky S.I., Grabenstein J.D., Gross Delbos R., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2004, Vol.46, No.10, p.1065-1075. Illus. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to examine whether U.S. Army personnel receiving one or more doses of anthrax vaccine between 1998 and 2002 were at higher risk of disability than unvaccinated personnel. A historical cohort study of 716,833 active-duty soldiers (154,456 vaccinated) was followed for 4.25 years to determine rates of evaluation for disability discharge. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate disability risk, while accounting for occupation and sociodemographics. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for men, women, permanent and temporary disability, musculoskeletal and neurological conditions were similar, ranging from 0.90 to 1.04. Alternate latency assumptions did not affect results. It is concluded that anthrax vaccination does not increase risk of disability. (106929)
CIS 07-959 Biological hazards in the workplace. (French: Les risques biologiques au travail) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, May 2006. 6p. Illus. Price: EUR 1.50. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1368-7 (In French) Internet: Many enterprises are concerned by biological hazards. The concept of "transmission chain" is a guiding principle that can help evaluate these hazards. Prevention consists of breaking at least one link in this chain. The concept is presented in the form of illustrations. (106873)
CIS 07-960 A hantavirus exposure control program for employers and workers. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2nd ed., 2006. iii, 17p., ISBN 0-7726-5629-0 (In English) Internet: Hantavirus infection is caused by a virus found in some field rodents in Canada and the United States. It is rarely transmitted to humans, but when it is, it can cause severe illness, even death. This booklet is intended for employers and workers who may come into contact with rodents or rodent droppings while at work, primarily in rural areas. Contents: definition of hantavirus, the diseases it causes, how it is transmitted and where it is most likely to be encountered; responsibilities of employers; exposure control plan; respiratory protection; good work practices. (106951)
CIS 07-961 Guidelines for workplace TB control activities - The contribution of workplace to TB control activities to TB control in the community. Maher D., Boldrini F., Pathania V., Alli B.O., World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service,1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2003. 74p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 92-4-154604-2 (In English) Internet: These guidelines represent the first comprehensive approach to workplace tuberculosis (TB) control. They draw on the practical experience of employers and workers and the technical expertise of the WHO and ILO. They cover the practical steps involved in establishing TB control activities. Contents: background information on TB; principles and examples of TB control in the workplace; implementation of TB control activities in the workplace; policy development and financing; extending services to the community. (106858)
CIS 07-962 Upper limb disorders among coopers in the Scotch whisky industry. Macdonald F., Waclawski E., Occupational Medicine, June 2006, Vol.56, No.4, p.232-236. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Coopering is a physically demanding activity which involves using long curved pieces of wood to make whisky casks. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of upper limb disorders among these workers. It was carried out in the form of a cross-sectional study of 108 coopers and 110 other workers, who were administered the Standardized Nordic questionnaire for the analysis of musculoskeletal symptoms. Participants were also subjected to a clinical assessment for upper limb disorders. Findings are discussed. Coopers were found to be at an increased risk of upper limb disorders. Logistic regression analysis confirmed the risk of upper limb disorder as a function of age and years of service. Work practices have been reviewed and a number of changes have been implemented to reduce this risk. (106942)
CIS 07-963 Tingling/numbness in the hands of computer users: Neurophysiological findings from the NUDATA study. Overgaard E., Brandt L.P.A., Ellemann K., Mikkelsen S., Andersen J.H., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Oct. 2004, Vol.77, No.7, p.521-525. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: The NUDATA (neck and upper extremity disorders among technical assistants) study is a one-year prospective cohort study of musculoskeletal disorders among computer users in Denmark. Within the NUDATA study, an investigation was carried out to determine whether tingling/numbness of the hands was associated with elevated vibration threshold as a sign of early nerve compression. Vibratory sensory testing with monitoring of the digital vibration detection threshold was performed on 20 cases with unilateral tingling and numbness in the hands and fingers, and 20 gender- and age-matched controls. The two groups had a similar amount of work with mouse and keyboard. The results show that tingling and numbness of the hands and fingers among computer users cannot be explained by nerve compression. (106916)
CIS 07-964 Ergonomic study on the manual component insertion lines for occupational health and safety improvements. Sen R.N., Yeow P.H.P., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2003, Vol.9, No.1, p.57-74. Illus. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was carried out to improve occupational safety and health among manual component insertion operators in a printed circuit board factory. Subjective and objective assessments and direct observations were carried out. Simple and low-cost ergonomic interventions were implemented, namely repairing chairs, reducing high workloads, assigning operators to a maximum of two workstations, confining machines that emitted high levels of smell and noise and providing tools for finger work. The results of the interventions were reductions in operators' chair discomfort, work stress and discomfort due to frequent change of their workstations. Several health hazards were also eliminated, including inhalation of solder fumes, exposure to excessive noise and injuries resulting from the handling of sharp components. (106811)
CIS 07-965 Expert assessment of physical ergonomics at video-display unit workstations: Repeatability, validity and responsiveness to changes. Ketola R., Toivonen R., Luukkonen R., Takala E.P., Viikari-Juntura E., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2004, Vol.77, No.6, p.437-442. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigated inter-observer repeatability, validity and sensitivity to change for an expert assessment method for video-display unit (VDU) workstation ergonomics. Technical measurements and video-recordings before and two months after an ergonomic intervention were made for 109 VDU office workstations. Two experts analysed and rated the ergonomics of the workstations. Tidiness and available space were analysed and work chairs were classified according to their ergonomic properties. Findings are discussed. Overall, assessments were consistent, confirming that the assessment method studied can be utilized by an expert in a repeatable manner both in cross-sectional and in longitudinal settings. (106913)
CIS 07-966 Shift work, job stress, and late fetal loss: The National Birth Cohort in Denmark. Zhu J.L., Hjollund N.H., Nybo Andersen A.M., Olsen J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2004, Vol.46, No.11, p.1144-1149. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: Data from the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC) were analysed to examine whether shift work or job stress correlated with late foetal loss. A total of 33,694 pregnancies of daytime workers and 8,075 pregnancies of shift workers were identified among women recruited to the DNBC between 1998 and 2001. Pregnancy outcomes were obtained from national registers. Hazard ratios of foetal loss were calculated. Fixed night work was associated with foetal loss (hazard ratio = 1.85). No high risk of foetal loss was seen for other types of shift work. Job stress, as measured in the study, was not associated with foetal loss. (106923)
CIS 07-967 Design of work systems: Does the application of ergonomic standards allow improvements in safety?. (French: Conception des systèmes de travail: l'application des normes en ergonomie permet-elle d'améliorer la sécurité?) Nachreiner F., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, Dec. 2006, No.205, p.9-14. 17 ref. (In French) Internet: Following an overview of standardization work in the area of human factors, this review article discusses the problems related to applying the standards, particularly with respect to compliance testing, and describes ongoing activities to overcome these problems, including a revision of the basic standards and a possible evaluation standard. Applying standards is a first step towards integrating human factors in the design process. However, this can make designers, builders and users aware of the opportunities this approach offers for improving the design of work systems with regard to system performance and safety. (106981)
CIS 07-968 Project management, ergonomics, and safety and health: The case of the design of a plant in Quebec. (French: Gestion de projet, ergonomie et santé-sécurité: le cas de la conception d'une usine québécoise) Lamonde F., Richard J.G., Beaufort P., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, Dec. 2006, No.205, p.41-54. Illus. 52 ref. (In French) Internet: This article presents the approach adopted by an ergonomist and two occupational safety and health professionals responsible for integrating ergonomics and occupational safety and health in an aluminium plant in Quebec. It involves five principles: advancing step-by-step during the project; adapting to engineering requirements; validating actions; testing design choices during user activities; and recording actions undertaken. This approach made it possible to influence the design of workplaces, eliminate many hazards at source and develop an occupational safety and health programme prior to the commissioning of the plant. (106982)
CIS 07-969 Ergonomics reduces suffering and expenditure. (French: L'ergonomie allège les souffrances et les dépenses) Haesen B., Prevent Focus, Nov. 2006,, No.9 p.18-20. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article reviews the efforts undertaken by an automobile manufacturer to reduce the level of absenteeism due to musculoskeletal diseases caused by poor ergonomics. It describes the ergonomic improvements implemented in the manual assembly of exhaust systems. Job observations and computer simulations resulted in an objective ergonomic evaluation of the physical workload, and the design and implementation an automated system. The number of days lost due to sickness absenteeism among workers assigned to this task was significantly reduced. (106994)
CIS 07-970 Study of the prevalence of musculoskeletal and psychological disorders, physical and psychosocial factors in 9-1-1 emergency call centre dispatchers. (French: Etude de la prévalence des troubles musculo-squelettiques et psychologiques, des facteurs physiques et psychosociaux chez les préposés des centres d'urgence 9-1-1) Toulouse G., St-Arnaud L., Bourbonnais R., Damasse J., Chicoine D., Delisle 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, 2006. viii, 75p. Illus. 82 ref. Price: CAD 10.60. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-066-1 (In French) Internet: This study examined musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and physical and psychosocial stress among emergency call centre operators in Quebec. It was carried out in the form of a self-administered questionnaire survey addressed to the operators of five emergency call centres. 96% of the respondents declared having suffered from musculoskeletal pain in at least one body region in the previous year. Furthermore, half of the operators of these centres were found to present a high level of psychological distress. The study describes the characteristics of the work of these operators, documents the links between risk factors and MSDs and mental health symptoms and proposes several leads for preventive measures. (106865)
CIS 07-971 Conditions of work in teams. (French: Les conditions du travail en équipe) Gheorghiu M.D., Moatty F., Centre d'études de l'emploi, Le Descartes, 29, Promenade Michel Simon, 93166 Noisy-le-Grand Cedex, France, 2005. 291p. 97 ref. Price: EUR 50.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-11-094602-4 (In French) Internet: This publication presents the findings of a survey aimed at further validating the responses to an earlier questionnaire survey on cooperation and support relations in health care institutions. Topics addressed: definition of cooperation; effect of changes in working conditions on cooperation; effects of professional level and mediation systems; solidarity and team spirit. (106875)
CIS 07-972 Reproducibility of the heart rate-oxygen consumption relationship. (French: Reproductibilité de la relation fréquence cardiaque-consommation d'oxygène) Trudeau F., Bouchard D.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, 2006. viii, 47p. Illus. 32 ref. Price: CAD 7.00. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-053-1 (In French) Internet: In ergonomics, the measurement of energy expenditure is a preferred method for determining the physical demands of a job. But since it requires costly, cumbersome equipment, ergonomists often use estimates taken from energy cost tables and established using relationships between heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumption (VO2). The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of the HR/VO2 relationship during the course of a working day. It involved 71 subjects divided into groups according to their gender, work intensity and work environment. They were tested on a treadmill before and after a working day. Comparison of data between the beginning and end of the working day showed that the HR/VO2 ratio did not vary significantly. (106864)
CIS 07-973 Development of a protocol for the electromyographic assessment of trunk extensor muscle endurance based on a functional approach. (French: Développement d'un protocole d'évaluation électromyographique de l'endurance des muscles extenseurs du tronc basé sur une approche fonctionnelle) Larivière C., Arsenault A.B., Gravel D., Gagnon D., Gardiner P., Loisel P., 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, 2006. ix, 74p. Illus. 166 ref. Price: CAD 10.60. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-078-4 (In French) Internet: The objective of this study was to develop a functional fatigue test as a single method for quantitatively evaluating the endurance of dorsal and lumbar muscles in relation to work requirements without having to measure their maximum strength. It consists of intermittent static muscle contractions (work-rest cycles) in trunk extension, thus simulating a repetitive handling task. Back muscle fatigue is quantified by electromyography. This test allows the follow-up of workers during rehabilitation, validates muscular training methods and allows a better determination of the possibility of a return to work for persons suffering from low back pain. (106869)
CIS 07-974 Code of practice for office ergonomics. SNP Corporation Ltd, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, #18-01, Great World City East Tower, Singapore 237994, Republic of Singapore, 2005. 31p. Illus. Price: SGD 27.00 (excluding GST)., ISBN 981-4154-12-1 (In English) Internet: This standard provides guidelines on the design and improvement of workplaces to make them safer, more comfortable and more productive. It covers the fundamentals of office ergonomics including physical, environmental and psychosocial elements. It includes a checklist for use in a preliminary ergonomics audit aimed at identifying potential problems and areas for further design improvements. (106845)
CIS 07-975 Easy ergonomics. A guide to selecting non-powered hand tools. (Spanish: Ergonomía fácil - Guía para la selección de herramientas manuales) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2006. 14p. Illus. 5 ref. Price: EUR 3.38., ISBN 84-7425-718-2 (In Spanish) Internet: This booklet provides guidance on the selection of ergonomically designed non-powered hand tools. The information and the hand tool checklist are based on peer-reviewed articles and expert input. The checklist has been evaluated for reliability in identifying the presence or absence of basic ergonomic design criteria. Use of the correct tool will help reduce a worker's risk of injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis or muscle strain. (106893)
CIS 07-976 Back talk - An owner's manual for backs. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2nd ed., 2003. 30p. Illus. (In English) Internet: The low back is subject to greater mechanical stress than any other part of the body and is commonly injured. This booklet provides information and advice to help understand how the back works, how to avoid injury and how to take care of the back during recovery. Contents: understanding your back; pain caused by muscle, ligament or facet-joint strains; disc injuries; posture and a healthy back; safe bending, lifting and carrying; stretching exercises; strengthening exercises; tips for a healthy back; exercise chart. (106952)
CIS 07-977 Preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders in sonography. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2006. 4p. Illus. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: Sonographers are at risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders such as inflammation of the tendons (tendonitis) or tendon sheaths (tenosynovitis), bursitis, muscle strains, and pathology of the nerves in the upper extremities, neck, and back. This information sheet includes a short summary of the findings of a NIOSH study on the main risk factors of musculoskeletal diseases among these workers, together with recommendations for appropriate engineering controls, work practices, scheduling and training. (106963)
CIS 07-978 Patient handling in small facilities: A companion guide to handle with care. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2006. 28p. Illus., ISBN 0-7726-5515-4 (In English) Internet: This handbook illustrates how small facilities in the heath care sector can apply the ergonomics requirements of British Columbia's occupational safety and health regulations in their individual facility. It provides guidance on the process of identifying, assessing and controlling risks of musculoskeletal diseases for workers involved in patient handling. (106968)
CIS 07-979 Transfer assist devices for safer handling of patients - A guide for selection and safe use. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2006. iii, 16p. Illus. 5 ref., ISBN 0-7726-5616-9 (In English) Internet: This guide is aimed at health care professionals to assist them evaluate and select the appropriate transfer assist devices for use in their care environment. Contents: reasons for using transfer assist devices; infection control; risk assessment; best practices when using different types of transfer assist devices: draw and slider sheets, transfer belts, slide/transfer boards, turning discs. (106970)
CIS 07-980 Psychological well-being among hospital personnel: The role of family demands and psychosocial work environment. Escribà-Agüir V., Tenías-Burillo J.M., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2004, Vol.77, No.6, p.401-408. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: This cross-sectional study was carried out to investigate the effect of gender role and the psychosocial work environment on the psychological well-being of staff at two hospitals in Spain. A total of 313 workers were surveyed on their psychological well-being by means of a self- administered questionnaire. Findings are discussed. Subjects with a very good marital relationship had less risk of presenting bad mental health (odds ratio (OR) 0.43), and limitation in the social function (OR 0.43) and emotional role (OR 0.35). Those who dedicated more than 30h per week to domestic chores had a higher risk of limitation of social function (OR 2.48). Those exposed to high psychological demands presented a higher probability of poor mental health (OR 1.77). Finally, workers exposed to low job social support had a higher risk of poor mental health (OR 1.86), low vitality (OR 2.21) and limitation in the social function (OR 1.88). (106911)
CIS 07-981 Violence in healthcare facilities: Lessons from the Veterans Health Administration. Hodgson M.J., Reed R., Craig T., Murphy F., Lehmann L., Belton L., Warren N., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2004, Vol.46, No.11, p.1158-1165. Illus. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: This cross-sectional study examined assault frequency and risk factors in health care. A questionnaire survey was carried out in 142 hospitals. Thirteen percent of employees described at least one assault in the previous year, with the proportion assaulted per facility ranging from 1% to 26%. Patients were the most common assaulters. Working in geriatrics, psychiatry and rehabilitation represented a high risk for assault. Hours of work and work patterns represented major risk factors for assault, as were high measures of organizational stress. Training in dispute resolution strategies was associated with lower rates of assaults. Possible strategies to reduce violence are discussed. (106924)
CIS 07-982 Factors associated with changes in perceived strain at work among fire-fighters: A 3-year follow-up study. Lusa S., Punakallio A., Luukkonen R., Louhevaara V., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2006, Vol.79, No.5, p.419-426. 30 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigated individual and work-related psychosocial factors associated with perceived physical and mental strain among fire-fighters. It was carried out in the form of a 3-year follow-up questionnaire of 632 fire-fighters. The associations were investigated by logistic regression modelling. Accidents were associated with increased perceived physical as well as mental strain (odds ratio (OR) 1.4-2.6). Unfair distribution of work tasks was associated with increased perceived physical strain (OR 8.5). Frequent differences of opinion disturbing work (OR 2.7) and the lack of possibilities for career advancement (OR 4.6) were associated with perceived increased mental strain at work. These results suggest that a variety of measures are needed to reduce the perceived physical and mental strain of fire-fighters. (106937)
CIS 07-983 The cost to employers of employee alcohol abuse: Review of the literature in the United States of America. (French: Le coût de l'abus d'alcool par les travailleurs pour les employeurs: étude des travaux publiés aux Etats-Unis d'Amérique) Harwood H.J., Reichman M.B., Bulletin des stupéfiants, 2000, Vol.LII, No.1-2, p.45-59. Illus. 16 ref. (In French) Internet: It is widely recognized that alcohol and drug abuse by workers can adversely affect their performance and the productivity of the workplace. The specific ways in which substance abuse can be harmful are well understood. Major elements of the costs incurred (for example, in lost productivity and earnings of workers and in deaths at the workplace) are captured in the most recent cost studies, as well as in the international guidelines for estimating the economic costs of substance abuse. However, no studies have rigorously measured the full economic burden on the workplace alone. Both employers and workers recognize the nature of the problem and have worked together through bodies such as the International Labour Organization to find common solutions and formulate multilateral policies. Data for the United States show that policies are frequently established at the workplace to reduce alcohol and drug abuse by workers. (106751)
CIS 07-984 Prevention of bullying: What is the employer's role?. (French: La prévention du harcèlement moral: quel rôle pour l'employeur?) Quiviger V., Lamy P., Cahier Pratique Tissot - Guide de la santé, sécurité au travail, Oct. 2006, No.94, p.6-7. Illus. (In French) Internet: This article addresses the issue of the responsibilities of employers in cases of bullying at the place of work, with reference to French legislation. It explains how employers can act on two fronts by implementing preventive measures and by using disciplinary sanctions, which can include dismissal. (106771)
CIS 07-985 Alcohol and tobacco at the place of work: Very poor habits. (French: Alcool, tabac... au travail - De bien mauvaises habitudes) Bondéelle A., Fellmann A., Favier A.L., Travail et sécurité, Nov. 2006, No.667, p.28-36. Illus. 7 ref. (In French) Internet: Topics addressed in this collection of articles on alcoholism and smoking at the place of work: creating awareness of the problem; preventive measures within the enterprise; passive smoking; French legislation; initiative taken by a mechanical engineering enterprise aimed at completely eliminating alcohol and tobacco at the place of work. (106773)
CIS 07-986 Human failure and organizational weaknesses: What methods are available for enterprises?. (French: Erreurs humaines et défaillances organisationnelles: quelles méthodes pour l'entreprise?) Guarnieri F., Revue Technique Apave, Jul.-Sep. 2006, No.315, p.26-28. Illus. 13 ref. (In French) Internet: This article comments on the approaches that enterprises can use for identifying, analysing and correcting organizational weaknesses which most often are the underlying cause of major accidents. In particular, it describes an approach entitled "Tripod Delta", based on an analysis of both generic and enterprise-specific factors and using responses to an anonymous questionnaire addressed to all members of the organization. The approach has already been implemented by close to 300 large organizations worldwide. (106883)
CIS 07-987 Preventing risks of violence in organizations that interact with the public. (French: Prévenir le risque d'agression dans les établissements recevant du public) Coisy P., Revue Technique Apave, Jul.-Sep. 2006, No.315, p.30-31. Illus. (In French) Internet: The increase in the frequency of violence to staff in organizations that interact with the public calls for the implementation of a system for dealing specifically with this hazard. Heads of organizations are required by law to ensure the safety of their staff. While no regulations specifically cover the risk of violence, a system should be established for dealing with this hazard in order to improve the safety and the productivity of staff. Such a system must include a hazard evaluation, the implementation of measures and training. (106884)
CIS 07-988 Occupational accidents: Unrecognized effects. (French: Accidents du travail: effets méconnus) Prevent Focus, Oct. 2006, No.8, p.20-22. Illus. 1 ref. (In French) Internet: This article comments on the findings of a survey carried out in the United Kingdom to analyse the nature and extent of the psychological consequences of occupational accidents, not only for the victims themselves but also for their families and close friends. The survey was conducted by means of telephone interviews of 237 victims of accidents in the construction industry and in health care. Issues include financial difficulties, reduced mobility, psychological problems and the impact on the family. (106889)
CIS 07-989 Occupational stress: An imaginary disease or a real symptom. (French: Stress au travail: fausse maladie ou vrai symptôme) Mongalvy M., ed., Réalité Prévention, Dec. 2004, No.6, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In French) Internet: Newsletter of the French National Occupational Safety and Health Institute (INRS) exploring the issue of occupational stress. Topics addressed: trends in work organization and working conditions and their impact on stress; definition of stress and mechanisms of occupational stress; results of a study showing that occupational stress needs to be taken into account as a risk factor by management; occupational stress factors and possible interventions at the enterprise level; European framework agreement on occupational stress signed by European Union employer and worker representatives; methods for evaluating the cost of occupational stress. (106906)
CIS 07-990 Effort-reward imbalance and physical health among Japanese workers in a recently-downsized corporation. Irie M., Tsutsumi A., Shioji I., Kobayashi F., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2004, Vol.77, No.6, p.409-417. 46 ref. (In English) Internet: This study investigated the relationship between effort-reward imbalance (ERI) and biological markers of disease risks in 441 workers of a recently downsized manufacturing enterprise in Japan. Findings are discussed. The ERI was positively associated with the values of red blood cells, haemoglobin, haematocrit, triglycerides and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT), and negatively correlated with the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level. Overcommitment was positively related to the values of haematocrit and glucose levels, but negatively associated with the total protein level. ERI seems to have an impact on the physical health of these workers, although results are mixed and differ from those of workers in Western countries. (106912)
CIS 07-991 How do job characteristics, family situation, domestic work, and lifestyle factors relate to sickness absence? A study based on Sweden Post. Voss M., Floderus B., Diderichsen F., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2004, Vol.46, No.11, p.1134-1143. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the relationship between characteristics of working life and private life and sickness absence. Questionnaire data for 1557 female and 1913 male employees of the Swedish postal service were linked to registered sickness absence by multivariate regression analyses. Apart from health problems, clear associations with sickness absence were observed for complaints attributed to heavy, arduous work, and sickness presenteeism. The use of tranquilizers, the occurrence of bullying, and the existence of a high total workload from paid and unpaid work were associated with sickness absence in women. The use of alcohol as a sedative, anxiety of reorganization, not holding a supervisor position, adverse life events and divorce were related to sickness absence in men. (106922)
CIS 07-992 Job loss, unemployment, work stress, job satisfaction, and the persistence of posttraumatic stress disorder one year after the September 11 attacks. Nandi A., Galea S., Tracy M., Ahern J., Resnick H., Gershon R., Vlahov D., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2004, Vol.46, No.10, p.1057-1064. 47 ref. (In English) Internet: The influence of unemployment and adverse work conditions on the course of psychopathology after a mass disaster is unclear. In this study, a representative sample of 1939 adults living in the New York City metropolitan area six months after the September 11 attacks was surveyed, and follow-up interviews on 71 % of the baseline sample were conducted six months later. At follow-up, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) persisted in 42.7% of the 149 cases with PTSD at baseline. In multivariable models, unemployment at any time since baseline predicted PTSD persistence in the entire cohort, including among persons employed at follow-up. Among the latter, high levels of perceived work stress also predicted PTSD persistence. Persons unemployed in the aftermath of a disaster may be at risk for poor mental health in the long-term. (106928)
CIS 07-993 Bullying in Turkish white-collar workers. Bilgel N., Aytac S., Bayram N., Occupational Medicine, June 2006, Vol.56, No.4, p.226-231. Illus. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence of workplace bullying among white-collar workers and to evaluate its effect on health. A questionnaire survey was carried out among full-time government employees in the health, education and security sectors in Turkey. Bullying was assessed using a 20-item inventory. A total of 944 participants responded (response rate 79%). Among respondents, 55% reported experiencing bullying in the previous year and 47% had witnessed the bullying of others. The bully was most likely to be a superior. Sixty per cent of victims had tried to take action against bullying, but most were dissatisfied with the outcome. There were significant differences in anxiety, depression, job-induced stress and support at work scores between those reporting bullying and those not reporting bullying at work. (106941)
CIS 07-994 Emotional contract for the primary prevention of bullying. (French: Le contrat émotionnel au service de la prévention primaire du harcèlement psychologique) Amherdt C.H., Travail et santé, Dec. 2006, Vol.22, No.4, p.10-12. 7 ref. (In French) Internet: This article proposes the "emotional contract" approach between employees and employers as a means of addressing the issue of bullying at the place of work. This is based on the commitment of employers to help employees identify all aspects of their work that contribute towards making the work experience more enjoyable, while employees commit to actively supporting this approach and to working productively. (106971)
CIS 07-995 Psychotropic drugs and work - Opiate substitution therapies. (French: Médicaments psychotropes et travail - Traitement de substitution aux opiacés) Durand E., Documents pour le médecin du travail, Dec. 2006, No.108, p.441-460. Illus. 75 ref. (In French) Internet: Third in importance after alcohol and tobacco, the consumption of psychotropic drugs in France is a problem that concerns occupational physicians faced with ethical and social issues related to the reintegration of drug addicts through employment. This literature survey focuses on opiate substitute therapies and their implications for the workplace. (106985)
CIS 07-996 Study on stress: The cause of stress for teachers, its effects, and suggested approaches to reduce it. Education International, 5 boulevard du Roi Albert II, 1210 Brussels, Belgium, 2001. 23p. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: This study on stress among teachers was carried out jointly with the WHO and ETUCE (European Trade Union Committee for Education). It took the form of a survey among teachers' unions in sixteen European countries. Contents: objectives of the survey; work-related stress in Europe; nature and sources of stress experienced by teachers and education staff; case studies of current methods of combating stress; recommendations for future action. (106831)
CIS 07-997 Suicide prevention: A resource at the workplace. Stuart H., Queen's University, 99 University Avenue, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6, [ca 2006]. 16p. 10 ref. (In English) Internet: Workers' suicide and suicide attempts are a result of complex interactions between individual vulnerabilities (such as mental health problems) and stressful working conditions. This paper argues in favour of preventive actions that can be undertaken at the workplace against the risk of suicide among workers. Contents: general suicide facts; occupation, mental disorders and stress as risk factors; productivity and cost aspects of mental health problems; medical and social support to workers with mental health disorders; creating a workplace conducive to good mental health; helping suicidal employees. (106837)
CIS 07-998 Organizational interventions and mental health in the workplace: A synthesis of international approaches. Harvey S., Courcy F., Petit A., Hudon J., Teed M., Loiselle O., Morin 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, 2006. iv, 48p. Illus. 94 ref. Price: CAD 7.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-070-8 (Fr), ISBN 978-2-89631-084-5 (En) (In English) Internet: This report summarizes knowledge relating to organizational intervention programmes and strategies to improve mental health in the workplace. Frameworks for the understanding of stress interventions at work are described and an evidence-based framework is proposed. This requires the establishment of proof as to the presence of sources of stress and a clear description of the sources, symptoms and consequences of this stress in order to design and evaluate appropriate interventions. Evidence of the effectiveness of organizational interventions is reviewed and recommendations for future research and methodology are proposed. (106850)
CIS 07-999 Human error - Causes and control. Peters G.A., Peters B.J., CRC Press, Taylor and Francis Group, 6000 Broken Sound Parkway NW, Suite 300, Boca Raton, FL 33487-2742, USA, 2006. 214p. 243 ref. Index. Price: GBP 39.99., ISBN 0-8493-8213-0 (In English) Internet: This manual provides information on theories, methods and specific techniques for controlling human error. It explores ideas, concepts and examples from which selections or interpretations may be made to fit the needs of a particular situation. It shows how the application and extension of known generic principles could help in the prevention of consumer error, worker fault, managerial mistakes and organizational blunders and explains how to adopt good practices by identifying human error, understanding its causes and adopting plans for its prevention. See also the manual indexed under CIS 06-1496, which provides supplemental information on engineering, managerial and medical errors for use with this book. (106961)
CIS 07-1000 Coping with critical incident stress at work. Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, 2002. 9p. Illus. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: Workers who witness critical incidents such as an armed robbery, a serious accident or a near miss that could have had disastrous consequences may suffer extreme emotional upsets, grouped under the term of "critical incident stress". Designed in a question-and-answer format, this booklet explains critical incidents and how employers can help workers suffering from critical incident stress. It also outlines a follow-up procedure and lists resources available for coping with critical incident stress. (106954)
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