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ILO-CIS Bulletin 2007/05

CIS 07-1001 --- CIS 07-1250

Laws, regulations, directives
Chemical data sheets and criteria documents
Training materials and practical information
Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisuals
   001 General safety, health and conditions of work
   002 Occupational medicine, epidemiology
   003 Industries and occupations
   004 New technologies
   005 Chemical safety
   006 Fires, explosions and major hazards
   007 Electrical safety
   008 Physical hazards
   009 Mechanical hazards, transport
   010 Biological hazards
   011 Physiology, ergonomics
   012 Stress, psychosocial factors


Laws, regulations, directives

CIS 07-1001 All about labour law and OSH in 2007 [Poland]. (Polish: Wszystko o prawie pracy i bhp w 2007 roku) Barczewska A., ed., Wydawnictwo Podatkowe Gofin sp. z o.o., ul. Owocowa 8, 66-400 Gorzów Wielkopolski, Pologne, 2007. 550p., ISBN 978-83-89056-18-4 (In Polish)

Internet:

This publication comprises a collection of legislation relevant to labour law. Part 1 covers general labour law and part 2 covers occupational safety and health. It includes 72 executive laws and regulations in force as of 1 January 2007. (107218)

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CIS 07-1002 Recommendations on the transport of dangerous goods - Model regulations [United Nations]. (French: Recommandations relatives au transport de marchandises dangereuses - Règlement type [Nations Unies]; Spanish: Recomendaciones relativas al transporte de mercancías peligrosas - Reglamento modelo [Naciones Unidas]) United Nations Publications, 1211 Genève 10, Switzerland, 15th rev.ed., 2007. vi, 417p. (Vol.1), vii, 352p. (Vol.2). Illus., ISBN 978-92-1-139120-6 (En), ISBN 978-92-1-239110-6 (fr), ISBN 978-92-1-339037-5 (es) (In English, French, Spanish)

Internet:
http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev15/15files_e.html


http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev15/15files_f.html

Latest update of the "Orange Book" (for the previous edition in English, see CIS 05-6). The Model Regulations are annexed to the Recommendations and cover: principles of classification of dangerous goods; packing and tank provisions; consignment procedures; requirements for the construction and testing of packagings and containers; and provisions concerning transport operations. The Regulations include a list of the most commonly carried dangerous goods with the UN identification number, class number and requirements for packagings and containers; Special recommendations apply to certain classes of goods. The recommendations do not apply to dangerous goods in bulk. (107200)

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CIS 07-1003 Ordinance of 15 June 2007 on the safety and the protection of workers during the utilization of pressure vessels (Ordinance on the utilization of pressure vessels) [Switzerland]. (French: Ordonnance sur la sécurité et la protection de la santé des travailleurs lors de l'utilisation des équipements sous pression du 15 juin 2007(Ordonnance relative à l'utilisation des équipements sous pression) [Suisse]; German: Verordnung vom 15. Juni 2007 über die Sicherheit und den Gesundheitsschutz der Arbeitnehmerinnen und Arbeitnehmer bei der Verwendung von Druckgeräten (Druckgeräteverwendungsverordnung); Italian: Ordinanza del 15 giugno 2007 sulla sicurezza e la protezione della salute dei lavoratori nell'utilizzo di attrezzature a pressione (Ordinanza sull'utilizzo di attrezzature a pressione)) Internet document, Switzerland, 2007. 6p. (In French, German, Italian)

Internet:
http://www.admin.ch/ch/d/sr/8/832.312.12.de.pdf

http://www.admin.ch/ch/f/rs/8/832.312.12.fr.pdf

http://www.admin.ch/ch/i/rs/8/832.312.12.it.pdf

This new directive concerning pressure vessels (effective: 1 July 2007) replaces the 1938 directive on pressure vessels (CIS 92-1078) and the 1925 directive on steam-generating equipment and steam vessels (CIS 92-1083). Contents: basic safety requirements; construction and installation of pressure vessels; protection against explosions and unauthorized access; maintenance; notifications and inspections. Main changes relative to the old legislation: a notification procedure replaces that of authorization and inspection; under certain conditions, inspections can be carried out under the responsibility of the enterprise; inspection intervals are harmonized. (107175)

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Chemical data sheets and criteria documents

CIS 07-1004 Powdered aluminium. (Spanish: Aluminio en polvo) Consejo Colombiano de Seguridad, Cra. 20 No. 39 - 62, Bogotá D.C, Colombia, 2006. 4p. Illus. (In Spanish)

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Chemical safety data sheet for powdered aluminium. Contents: potentially harmful health effects; first aid; measures in the event of fires or accidental release; handling and storage; control of exposures and personal protection; physical and chemical properties; stability and reactivity; toxicological information; environmental protection information; waste disposal; information concerning transport; regulations. The substance is inflammable and the dust may form inflammable or explosive mixtures with air. Inhalation or contact with the skin or eyes causes irritation; pulmonary fibrosis has been reported following long-term exposure. (107020)

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CIS 07-1005 4-Hydroxybutylacrylate. Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, Birkenwaldstrasse 44, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany, 2006. xiii, 59p. 91 ref., ISBN 978-3-7776-1505-9 (In English)

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Conclusions of this criteria document, which reflects the state of knowledge as of 2005: 4-hydroxybutylacrylate is a high boiling-point, reactive, clear liquid used as a chemical intermediate product in the manufacturing of automobile varnishes. The main modes of entry are through ingestion and skin penetration. Animal studies show low toxicity (LD50 between 500 to 1000mg/kg), with few symptoms appearing below the lethal dose. It is a skin and eye irritant. In vitro studies show the product to be non-mutagenic. Although no experimental data are available, carcinogenicity is considered unlikely. (107071)

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CIS 07-1006 Triethoxy-2,4,4-trimethylpentylsilane. Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, Birkenwaldstrasse 44, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany, 2006. xiii, 46p. 81 ref., ISBN 978-3-7776-1506-6 (In English)

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Conclusions of this criteria document which reflects the state of knowledge of July 2005: triethoxy-2,4,4-trimethylpentylsilane is a clear liquid used in the construction industry for the impregnation of concrete. It reacts with water and alcohols. Modes of entry include ingestion and skin absorption. Animal studies show very low toxicity (LD50 at over 2000mg/kg). In rats, target organs of chronic exposure are the forestomach, liver, bladder and kidney. No studies are available on toxic effects to reproduction. In vitro and in vivo studies show the product to be non-mutagenic. Although no experimental data are available, carcinogenicity is considered unlikely. . (107072)

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CIS 07-1007 4-Chlorophenyl-isocyanate. Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, Birkenwaldstrasse 44, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany, 2006. xiv, 58p. 136 ref., ISBN 978-3-7776-1507-3 (In English)

Internet:

Conclusions of this criteria document which reflects the state of knowledge of February 2006: 4-chlorophenyl-isocyanate is a colourless to yellowish solid which melts below 30°C. It is highly-reactive chemical intermediate used in the production of certain plant protection chemicals. It hydrolyses in the presence of water, forming 4-chloroaniline. Modes of entry include ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. The few available animal studies show low toxicity but with inconsistent results. There are no data on chronic ingestion toxicity. In rats, the target organ of chronic inhalation exposure is the lung. It is irritating to the skin and eye. In vitro studies show the product to be non-mutagenic. There are no data on reproductive toxicity and carcinogenicity. (107073)

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Training materials and practical information

CIS 07-1008 Working with VDUs. HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, rev. ed. Dec. 2006. 14p. Illus. 2 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg36.pdf

This brochure explains how work with visual display units may affect workers' health. It summarises the law on VDU work, outlines what employers and employees should to do comply and suggests simple adjustments that users can make to workstations and screens to make them more comfortable and easy to use. Replaces CIS 98-529. (107173)

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CIS 07-1009 Lead and occupational hazards. (French: Plomb et risques professionnels; German: Gesundheitliche Gefährdung am Arbeitsplatz durch Blei) Pletscher C., Liechti B., Suva, Caisse nationale suisse d'assurance en cas d'accidents, Case postale 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland, 6th ed., 2007. 35p. Illus. 39 ref. (In French, German)

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This information note can be used as a training manual on the hazards of long-term exposure to low concentrations of lead. It is primarily aimed at occupational physicians. Main topics covered: sources of exposure; intake, distribution, elimination and toxic effects; health hazards; determination in air and exposure tests; medical supervision; technical and organizational measures; personal hygiene; legal aspects in Switzerland. Update of document abstracted under CIS 90-1855. (107195)

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CIS 07-1010 The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (as amended): A brief guide. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2007. 11p. 4 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg401.pdf

This booklet provides guidance for employers, the self-employed and anyone who works at height on how to comply with the Work at Height Regulations 2005, as amended by the Work at Height (Amendment) Regulations 2007. It describes the scope of the Regulations and when they apply and summarises the responsibilities of duty holders: planning of work, worker training, selection of equipment and protective measures, safety inspections, safety of workers near fragile surfaces, protection against falling objects. Replaces CIS 06-1047. (107183)

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CIS 07-1011 Tower cranes. (French: Grues à tour) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed., Apr. 2005. 68p. Illus. 12 ref. Price: EUR 7.30. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-0577-3 (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/E913B30E03403AAC
   …C125702A00310861/$FILE/ed813.pdf

This practical safety guide is aimed at operators of tower cranes, maintenance workers and supervisory staff. Contents: overview of existing regulations and standards; description of tower cranes; safety tips for the crane operator before the shift, while working and when finishing work; advice on crane maintenance; crane transport. Replaces CIS 99-79. (107031)

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CIS 07-1012 Maintenance and prevention of occupational hazards in building projects. (French: Maintenance et prévention des risques professionnels dans les projets de bâtiment) Voisin J.C., Moineau J.P., Béhard G., Di Giuseppe F., Dubois J.C., Geyer G., Rasseneur A., Tourtier M., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed., Apr. 2004. 54p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: EUR 6.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1205-2 (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/inrs-pub/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_search_view/024486AC9D81EB6FC1256E
   …9200565C2C/$File/ed829.pdf

Aimed at building owners, building contractors, safety coordinators and construction firms, this booklet has two objectives. Firstly, it seeks to encourage the consideration of maintenance issues during the design phase of a project by specifying the factors to be addressed and defining the roles of the various participants. Next, it proposes the setting up of an organizational structure during the design phase of the project to take account of the safety of persons involved in subsequent repair or maintenance work. Replaces CIS 01-372. (107032)

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CIS 07-1013 Loading cranes. (French: Grues de chargement) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 4th ed., 2001 (reprinted 2003). 80p. Illus. Price: EUR 7.30. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-85599-775-5 (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/inrs-pub/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_search_view/DFB002E9A61A34B5C1256C
   …D900503A9A/$File/ed676.pdf

This safety guide contains practical information for operators and maintenance workers of loading cranes. Contents: basic safety information and regulations applicable in France; description of loading cranes; understanding the equipment; conducting proper checks at the start and end of the working day; safe working methods; safety during maintenance procedures. Replaces CIS 01-387. (107033)

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CIS 07-1014 Ergonomic checkpoints: Practical and easy-to-implement solutions for improving safety, health and working conditions. International Ergonomics Association, Arab Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, Damascus, Syria, 2000. xxiv, 292p. Illus. (In Arabic)

Internet:

Arabic translation of the ILO manual abstracted under CIS 96-2070. It contains 128 "checkpoints", each consisting of one page of important points to remember about an ergonomic issue (including many OSH subjects as well), grouped under the headings WHY, HOW, SOME MORE HINTS and POINTS TO REMEMBER, together with one page of illustrations. The checkpoints themselves are grouped under the following headings: materials storage and handling; hand tools; productive machine safety; improving workstation design; lighting; premises; control of hazardous substances and agents; welfare facilities; work organization. An overall ergonomic check-list, with one recommendation for each of the checkpoints, is also provided. (107180)

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CIS 07-1015 Ergonomic checkpoints: Practical and easy-to-implement solutions for improving safety, health and working conditions. (Malay: Titik semakan ergonomi: Kaedah-kaedah penyelesaian mudah dan praktikal untuk memperbaiki keselamatan, kesihatan dan keadaan kerja) International Labour Office, MDC Publishers Snd Bhd, MDC Building, 2717 & 2718 Jalan Permata Empat, Taman Permata, Ulu Kelang, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 2003. xxx, 534p. Illus., ISBN 967-70-0875-7 (In English, Malay)

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Bilingual edition of the ILO manual abstracted under CIS 96-2070. It contains 128 "checkpoints", each consisting of one page of important points to remember about an ergonomic issue (including many OSH subjects as well), grouped under the headings WHY, HOW, SOME MORE HINTS and POINTS TO REMEMBER, together with one page of illustrations. The checkpoints themselves are grouped under the following headings: materials storage and handling; hand tools; productive machine safety; improving workstation design; lighting; premises; control of hazardous substances and agents; welfare facilities; work organization. An overall ergonomic check-list, with one recommendation for each of the checkpoints, is also provided. (107228)

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CIS 07-1016 Keys for ... preventing and combating violence, bullying and sexual harassment in the workplace. (Dutch: Wegwijs in ... de preventie en bescherming tegen geweld, pesten en ongewenst seksueel gedrag op het werk.; French: Clés pour ... prévenir et lutter contre la violence et le harcèlement moral ou sexuel au travail) Cellule publications du SPF Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot 1, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, rev. ed., Feb. 2005. 64p. Illus. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4282

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4282

This booklet provides guidance on Belgian regulations concerning the protection of workers against violence, bullying or sexual harassment. Contents: definitions and scope of the regulations; occupational safety and health policies; roles of the occupational safety and health advisor and the trusted advisor; protection of workers, employers and third parties; penalties; help to victims. Replaces CIS 03-1119. (107187)

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Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisuals


001 General safety, health and conditions of work

CIS 07-1017 Prioritizing industries for occupational injury and illness prevention and research, Washington State workers' compensation claims, 1999-2003. Bonauto D., Silverstein B., Adams D., Foley M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.48, No.8, p.840-851. 17 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to identify high-risk industry groups for effective allocation of occupational safety and health prevention and research resources. All compensable Washington State workers' compensation claims were used to rank North American Industry Classification System industry groups by prevention index (PI). The PI is the average of the rank orders of each industry group's claim count and claim incidence rate. Of the 274 industry groups for which a ranking was obtained, the following industry groups ranked the highest: foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors; general freight trucking; residential building construction. (107168)

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CIS 07-1018 Occupational accidents - Decrease in fatalities but an increase in serious injuries on construction sites. (French: Accidents du travail - Moins de morts mais plus de blessés graves sur les chantiers) Prévention BTP, Feb. 2007, No.93, p.4-5. Illus. 1 ref. (In French)

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This article presents the key statistics of occupational accidents in the construction sector in France for the year 2005. Compared to 2004, the number of fatal accidents declined by 4%, while that of accidents involving absenteeism increased slightly. Other topics addressed: rise in insurance premiums; statistical trends of occupational accidents since 1950; trends in occupational diseases caused by cement dust, asbestos and noise between 2003 and 2005. (107104)

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CIS 07-1019 A framework for understanding the development of organisational safety culture. Parker D., Lawrie M., Hudson P., Safety Science, July 2006, Vol.44, No.6, p.551-562. 32 ref. (In English)

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A framework for the development and maturation of organizational safety culture is described. The content of the framework was informed by 26 semi-structured interviews with experienced oil and gas company executives. The form of the framework is based on earlier studies of the typology of organizational cultures. The result is a set of short descriptions of each of a number of aspects of organizational safety at each of five levels of safety culture advancement. The framework was assessed for validity. Theoretical implications and possible applications of the framework are discussed. (107068)

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CIS 07-1020 Human error and organizational failures: Findings from the implementation of the Tripod Delta method. (French: Erreurs humaines et défaillances organisationnelles: résultats de la mise en œuvre de la méthode Tripod Delta) Guarnieri F., Revue Technique Apave, 4th quarter 2006, No.316, p.32-34. Illus. 5 ref. (In French)

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This article presents an analytical method for assessing latent organizational failures likely to impact on safety and health at the workplace. Failures are represented in the form of eleven organizational factors. By means of individual questionnaires, the method enables the assessment of the degree of command and control of each of the factors. It is based on the employees' perception of enterprise safety and health practices. The practical implementation of the method at the production site of a French tyre manufacturer is described. (107110)

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CIS 07-1021 Defining a methodological approach for hazard analysis and evaluation. (French: Développer une approche méthodologique pour l'analyse et l'évaluation des risques) Castellan I., Santé et Sécurité au Travail Actualités, Jan. 2007, No.96, p.10-11. Illus. (In French)

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To evaluate the safety and health risks to which employees are exposed and to prevent occupational hazards, employers need to adopt a structured and systematic approach, such as the one presented in this article. Contents: procedure to be followed for hazard evaluation (job task analysis, hazard identification and associated risks); elements to take into account for defining risk levels (probability and severity evaluation, interpretation of the results). (107111)

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CIS 07-1022 First critical assessment of hazard evaluation practices. (French: 1er bilan sur les pratiques d'évaluation des risques) Seillan H., ed., Préventique-Sécurité, Jan.-Feb. 2007, No.91, p.8-28. Illus. (In French)

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Five years after the publication of Decree No.2001-1016 of 5 November 2001 (see CIS 01-1278) making provision for the single document on the evaluation of safety and health hazards faced by employees, this collection of articles presents the historical development and a critical assessment of hazard evaluation in France through interviews and opinions of labour department officers at the national and regional levels, and of persons representing industry federations, trade unions and specialist safety and health associations . (107118)

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CIS 07-1023 Archetypes for organizational safety. Marais K., Saleh J.H., Leveson N.G., Safety Science, Aug. 2006, Vol.44, No.7, p.565-582. Illus. 27 ref. (In English)

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This article proposes an initial set of six system safety archetypes that model dynamic organizational behaviours that often lead to accidents. The archetypes help clarify why safety-related decisions do not always result in the desired behaviour, and how independent decisions in different parts of the organization can combine to have a negative, and often unforeseen, impact on safety. Examples from the NASA manned space program and general industry are used to illustrate the archetypes. As accident analysis and investigation tools, the archetypes can be used to develop dynamic models that describe the systemic and organizational factors contributing to accidents. As risk analysis tools, the archetypes can be used to improve understanding of the ways that risk can arise in complex socio-technical systems. (107156)

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CIS 07-1024 Mind your language. Preston C., Allan D., Safety and Health Practitioner, Aug. 2006, Vol.24, No.8, p.47-50. Illus. (In English)

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British specialists are often invited to conduct occupational safety and health training courses in foreign countries, including those where English is not the mother tongue and where there are important differences in the cost of labour, levels of education and cultural perceptions concerning fate and risk. This article reviews some of the key issues that UK trainers have to address when conducting occupational safety and health courses abroad. (107159)

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CIS 07-1025 Causes of fatal accidents in Spain 2003-2004: We continue to investigate in order to advance. (Spanish: Causas de los accidentes mortales en España 2003-2004: seguimos investigando para seguir avanzando) Fraile Cantalejo A,, de la Orden Rivera M.V., Tejedor Aibar M.M., Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo, Dec. 2006, No.40, p.29-49. Illus. (In Spanish)

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An analysis of occupational accident mortality in Spain during the last 20 years shows a decreasing trend from 1989 onwards leading to an incidence index of 6.3 fatal accidents for 100,000 workers in 2005. The aim of this study was to determine the profiles and causes of fatal accidents. It analyses fatal occupational accidents occurring in Spain between 2003 and 2004 by sector of activity, type of employment contract, number of workers employed in the enterprise, cause of the accident and the impact of subcontracting. It also examines the distribution of accidents as a function of the type of preventive measures implemented. (107016)

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CIS 07-1026 Work-related deaths in Washington State, 1998-2002. Cohen M.A., Clark R.E., Silverstein B., Sjostrom T., Spielholz P., Journal of Safety Research, 2006, Vol.37, No.3, p.307-319. Illus. 51 ref. (In English)

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In Washington State, an average of 87 workers are killed each year while at work. Analysis of these incidents helps to identify potential prevention measures. In this article, work-related fatalities between the years 1998 and 2002 are analysed by victims' demographics, types of incidents, victims' occupations, industries and the location of the incident. Motor vehicle- and machinery-related incidents accounted for nearly 33% and 14% of the incidents, respectively. Agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, mining and construction had the most fatalities. Fatality rates per 100,000 workers for these industries varied between 25.7 and 8.7, compared to the state-wide average of 3.1. These data indicate numerous areas for the prevention of work-related traumatic injuries and fatalities. (107048)

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CIS 07-1027 Fatal and serious industrial accidents in 2005. JISHA Newsletter, July 2006, No.47, p.10-11. Illus. (In English)

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In 2005 in Japan, there were 1514 fatalities due to occupational accidents, a decrease of 106 from the preceding year and the smallest number of fatal industrial accident deaths in Japanese history. This article presents statistical trends of occupational accidents in Japan since 1967. Charts present trends for accidents involving loss of work time and for fatalities, as well as the breakdown between fatalities in manufacturing industries, construction and other sectors. (107060)

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CIS 07-1028 Law-based protection of labour: Workers' participation in the area of occupational safety and health - Legal aspects. (Polish: Prawna ochrona pracy : Partycypacja pracownicza w dziedzinie bezpieczeństwa i higieny pracy - aspekty prawne) Krzyśków B., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, 2007, No.1, p.2-5. 8 ref. (In Polish)

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The role and importance of co-operation between employers and their employees on issues relating to occupational safety and health are examined. Forms of workers' participation in the European Union and in Polish legislation are described. The ruling of the European Court of Justice relating to the appointment of workers' representatives responsible for OSH is also discussed. (107213)

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CIS 07-1029 World Day for Safety and Health at Work: 28 April 2005. Muchemedzi S., On Guard, June 2005, Vol.11, No.2, p.14-16. Illus. (In English)

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This article reviews the events held in Zimbabwe to commemorate the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, held on 28 April 2005, including a minute's silence in remembrance of workers who lost their lives due to occupational factors and a reflection on number of notable disasters occurring in recent years in the country. (107029)

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CIS 07-1030 Glossary of hazard terms. (French: Glossaire des mots du danger) Seillan H., Préventique-Sécurité, Nov.-Dec. 2006, No.90, p.13-22. (In French)

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This glossary of approximately 150 terms used in occupational safety and health includes terms defined by law and terms with alternative or contradictory meanings. Its objective is to propose a reference definition to avoid misunderstandings. (107116)

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CIS 07-1031 It starts at the top. Christodoulou A., Safety and Health Practitioner, Aug. 2006, Vol.24, No.8, p.57-60. Illus. 6 ref. (In English)

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The United Kingdom Health and Safety Commission has published guidance aimed at board level directors and their equivalents in public sector enterprises, setting out their responsibilities with respect to health and safety. It recommends that at least one board member be appointed "health and safety director" with a supervisory role for occupational safety and health. This article discusses the importance of providing board level directors with suitable information and training to ensure that their role is effective. Among the topics addressed: United Kingdom legislation concerning the liability of board members; case studies highlighting failures at board level; studies showing improvements in OSH after active board involvement. (107160)

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CIS 07-1032 Safety and reliability - Technology theme - Final report. Rouhiainen V., VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, ed., VTT Information Service, P.O.Box 2000, 02044 VTT, Finland, 2006. 142p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 951-38-6696-3 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.vtt.fi/inf/pdf/publications/2006/P592.pdf

This report describes the research carried out at the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland in the area of safety and reliability. Technologies, system models, measurement and estimation methods have been developed for Finnish industry's needs. The results have been applied to the development of safety and the life cycle management of socio-technical systems. The research focused on methods for life cycle management of production systems, human-technology interaction and new technologies and operating principles. (107075)

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CIS 07-1033 National occupational health and safety policy [United Republic of Tanzania]. Ministry of Labour, Youth Development and Sport, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania, Oct. 2004. 28p. (In English)

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Contents: current OHS situation; vision, mission and general objectives and scope of OHS policy; challenges to be addressed; policy issues (tripartite commitment and cooperation, institutional development and capacity building, awareness campaigns, preventive principles and OHS services, legal framework and compliance); institutional framework; roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders, monitoring and evaluation. (107226)

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CIS 07-1034 National occupational safety and health profile of Mongolia. Nyam A., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2006. 66p. Illus. 17 ref., ISBN 978-92-2-119029-5 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/region/asro/bangkok/library/download/pub06-18.pdf

This national profile provides a comprehensive view of issues related to occupational safety and health (OSH) in Mongolia. It was prepared jointly by the Mongolian government and the ILO. Contents: overview of occupational safety and health (OSH) management and inspection systems prior to 1990; reforms in OSH management and organization; national policy on OSH; legal and regulatory framework for OSH; OSH inspection system; other authorities with responsibilities related to OSH; mechanism of cooperation between the government, employers' and workers' organizations; OSH education and training; overall level of human resources active in OSH; available statistics and information; international cooperation; recommendations. (107077)

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CIS 07-1035 Occupational health and safety - An annotated bibliography of research and related literature (1998-2003). Auf der Mauer G., Hollander A., Hu Huifen J., Hunter K.D., Isenbügel S., Kohonick M., Matveeva N., Wolfe J., eds., UNESCO-UNEVOC International Centre, UN Campus, Hermann-Ehlers-Strasse 10, 53113 Bonn, Germany, 2004. 59p. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.unevoc.net/fileadmin/user_upload/pubs/AB5_HealthSafety.pdf

This bibliography of occupational safety and health research literature provides bibliographic references and short descriptions of publications covering 21 topics grouped under the following headings: occupational safety and health areas; workers' health promotion; specific industrial sectors; research sources. (107085)

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CIS 07-1036 Report on the Regional Tripartite Workshop on National Occupational Safety and Health Programmes. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. 52p. (In English)

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Report of an ILO regional tripartite workshop on national occupational safety and health programmes (OSH) held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 16 to 19 May 2005. Sessions were held on the following topics: efforts and initiatives in Asia towards the development of national OSH programmes; legislation and standards; awareness raising, training and promotion of safety culture; enforcement and compliance; workers' compensation systems. The report includes summaries of presentations made during the inaugural session, minutes of workshop sessions, the conference programme, the list of participants and workshop case studies. (107090)

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CIS 07-1037 Organization of external protection and prevention services in 15 EU member states - Synthesis. (French: Organisation des services externes de protection et de prévention dans 15 pays membres de l'Union européenne - Synthèse) Prevent, rue Gachard 88/4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, [c2006]. 22p. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.prevent.be/net/net01.nsf/52b2da8b666e069080256aaa002ab228/1af5daf56d2
   …c0638c12572420058103e/$FILE/etude.pdf

The objective of this study on the organization of occupational safety and health in 15 EU member states was to examine the mode of operation of external safety and health services in the context of the liberalization of services. It examines the consequences of the Framework Directive (89/391/EEC, see CIS 89-1401) on the organization of occupational safety and health in EU member states and shows that states have adapted their legislation in various areas so as to comply with European regulations. This study also reveals that harmonization is not complete and that countries have often used different approaches for fulfilling the European requirements. In particular, the training of experts and the requirements with respect to occupational safety and health services differ from country to country. (107117)

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CIS 07-1038 Guide to the methodology of inspection visits. (French: Guide méthodologique des visites d'inspection) International Labour Office, Reinforcement of Occupational Relations in Morocco, 14 Oued Ziz Street, Agdal, Rabat, Morocco, 2006. 106p. (In Arabic, French)

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The new Moroccan labour act came into force in June 2004. Its provisions include a reinforcement of labour inspection. Aimed at labour inspectors, this guide covers good practices, procedural rules and intervention methodologies before, during and after inspection visits. It addresses a number of legal, procedural and ethical issues. (107132)

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CIS 07-1039 Labour inspection - A guide to the profession. (Chinese: Laodong jiancha: Jiancha zhiye zhinan) von Richthofen W., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2004. vi, 310p. 182 ref., ISBN 7-5045-4388-8 (In Chinese)

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Chinese translation of the manual indexed under CIS 02-1626. This manual on labour inspection is aimed at labour inspectors, labour inspection services, employers' and workers' organizations and their representatives in enterprises. It discusses current approaches to labour inspection, and identifies and analyses some of the best practices in labour inspection systems in ILO member states. Contents: background, evolution and context; inspections systems policy; inspection systems organization and management; sectoral aspects of labour inspection (child labour, small enterprises, agriculture, non-commercial services sector, construction, major hazards prevention, psychosocial hazards). An appendix includes the major international standards on labour inspection. (107176)

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CIS 07-1040 Labour inspection - A guide to the profession. (Spanish: La inspección de trabajo - Guía de la profesión) von Richthofen W., Ministerio de Trabajo y Asuntos Sociales, Agustín de Bethencourt 11, 28003 Madrid, Spain, 2003. 533p. 182 ref., ISBN 84-8417-134-5 (In Spanish)

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Spanish translation of the manual indexed under CIS 02-1626. This manual on labour inspection is aimed at labour inspectors, labour inspection services, employers' and workers' organizations and their representatives in enterprises. It discusses current approaches to labour inspection, and identifies and analyses some of the best practices in labour inspection systems in ILO member states. Contents: background, evolution and context; inspections systems policy; inspection systems organization and management; sectoral aspects of labour inspection (child labour, small enterprises, agriculture, non-commercial services sector, construction, major hazards prevention, psychosocial hazards). An appendix includes the major international standards on labour inspection. (107181)

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CIS 07-1041 Labour inspection - A guide to the profession. (Polish: Inspekcja pracy - Przewodnik po profesji; Vietnamese: Thanh tra lao đông huóng dân chuyên ngành) von Richthofen W., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2004. xv, 397p. (Polish), xix, 492p. (Vietnamese). 182 ref., ISBN 83-89866-00-05 (pl), ISBN 92-2-816292-9 (vi) (In Polish, Vietnamese)

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Translations in Polish and Vietnamese of the manual indexed under CIS 02-1626. This manual on labour inspection is aimed at labour inspectors, labour inspection services, employers' and workers' organizations and their representatives in enterprises. It discusses current approaches to labour inspection, and identifies and analyses some of the best practices in labour inspection systems in ILO member states. Contents: background, evolution and context; inspections systems policy; inspection systems organization and management; sectoral aspects of labour inspection (child labour, small enterprises, agriculture, non-commercial services sector, construction, major hazards prevention, psychosocial hazards). An appendix includes the major international standards on labour inspection. (107182)

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CIS 07-1042 Safe and healthy workplaces - Making decent work a reality. (Portuguese: Locais de trabalho seguros e saudáveis - Tornar o trabalho digno uma realidade; Russian: Bezopasnye i zdorovye rabočie mesta: Sdelaem dostojnyj trud real'nost'ju) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. 19p. Portuguese version; 21p. Russian version. Illus. 12 ref., ISBN 978-92-2-419811-3 (RU), ISBN 978-989-8076-10-6 (PT) (In Portuguese, Russian)

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This report was prepared for the ILO World Day for Safety and Health at Work, 28 April 2007. The focus of the report is on the place of occupational safety and health in achieving the four strategic objectives of the Decent Work Agenda: international labour standards and fundamental principles and rights at work; decent employment; social protection for all; tripartism and social dialogue. Topics covered include: the Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention (No. 187), adopted by the International Labour Conference in June 2006; the relationship between safety and health, different forms of employment and productivity; the need for a national preventative safety and heath culture; the importance of education, training and information; effective management of occupational safety and health; and corporate social responsibility. Includes the text of the Promotional Framework Convention and Recommendation (No. 197) and a list of relevant ILO Instruments. English, French and Spanish versions indexed under CIS 07-297. (107198)

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CIS 07-1043 Integrating safety into work instructions. (Spanish: Integración de la seguridad en las instrucciones de trabajo) Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo, Dec. 2006, No.40, p.62-63. Illus. 2 ref. (In Spanish)

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Work instructions define the steps to be carried out for various tasks and are aimed at ensuring that work is carried out correctly. From the standpoint of occupational safety and health, it is desirable that they include safety measures. Contents of this practical information sheet on the integration of safety into work instructions: tasks for which instructions must include safety aspects; phases involved in preparing and implementing instructions that include safety aspects (task analysis, writing the instructions, approvals and checks, distribution, periodical revision and updating); supply and use of the instructions. (107017)

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CIS 07-1044 Hazard analysis. (Dutch: De risicoanalyse; French: L'analyse des risques) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 60p. Illus. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3880

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3880

This booklet presents the concept of hazard analysis explains its use in the determination of occupational safety and health measures. Contents: introduction to the dynamic system of risk management; occupational safety and health; evaluation of the dynamic system of risk management; hazard analysis; hazard analysis strategy; analytical methods; classification and ranking methods; practical example of the evaluation of fire hazards in a small enterprise. (107130)

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CIS 07-1045 Workplace health, safety and welfare - A short guide for managers. HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, rev. ed. 2006. 10p. 15 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg244.pdf

This leaflet provides an outline of the requirements of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (CIS 93-351) as amended in 1996, 2002 and 2005. Brief guidance is given on the general working environment (ventilation, temperature, lighting, cleanliness, room dimensions, workstation design), safety (maintenance, floors and traffic routes, protection against falls and falling objects, safety of doors, gates, walls, windows, and moving walkways), and provision of welfare facilities. Replaces CIS 97-1177. (107178)

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CIS 07-1046 Management and industrial safety achievement. (French: La sécurité du travail: responsabilité de direction; German: Erfolgreiche Unfallverhütung - ein Anliegen der Betriebsführung) Grimaldi J.V., International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, June 1966. 10p. 5 ref. (In English, French, German)

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This information note presents a paper on the issue of adverse human behaviour in the promotion of occupational safety. It reviews developments in occupational safety efforts in the UK and the USA and argues that effective safety achievement requires a disciplined approach to risk evaluation and control. (107243)

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CIS 07-1047 Welfare of workers during the performance of their work. (Dutch: Het welzijn van de werknemers bij de uitvoering van hun werk; French: Le bien-être des travailleurs lors de l'exécution de leur travail) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 71p. Illus. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4288

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4288

Aimed at employers, this guide comments the Belgian Act of 4 August 1996 concerning the welfare of workers during the performance of their work (see CIS 97-1) and explains how to ensure its compliance within the enterprise. Contents: scope; definitions; general principles; risk prevention and occupational safety and health services; senior committee for risk prevention and protection at the place of work; provisions applicable to special work situations (subcontracting, temporary work); serious accident prevention measures; inspections; administrative and criminal sanctions. (107129)

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CIS 07-1048 Recording and notification of occupational accidents and diseases. (Vietnamese: Ghi chép, khai báo vê tai nan lao đông và bênh nghê nghiêp) Nhà Xuât Bàn Lao @Djông - Xã Hôi, Hanoi, Viet Nam, 2000. 192p. 8 ref. (In Vietnamese)

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Vietnamese version of the Code of Practice (CIS 96-2083) adopted by a tripartite Meeting of Experts held in Geneva from 3 to 11 Oct. 1994. The purpose of the Code of Practice is to help with the international harmonization of the procedures for the collection, recording and notification of occupational accidents and diseases. Contents: extracts from the Report of the Meeting of Experts; general provisions; policies and principles for the recording, notification and investigation of occupational accidents and diseases, dangerous occurrences and related statistics (at the national and enterprise level); legal, institutional and administrative arrangements for setting up reporting, recording and notification systems; reporting at the enterprise level; arrangements for recording; arrangements for notification; extension of systems to self-employed persons; compilation and publication of statistics; classification and investigation of occupational accidents and diseases and of dangerous occurrences. In annex: relevant ILO Conventions and Recommendations; schedules, lists and classification systems for occupational injuries and diseases, economic activities, occupations, status in employment and accidents (107192)

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CIS 07-1049 Reporting of occupational accidents. (Dutch: De aangifte van arbeidsongevallen.; French: La déclaration des accidents du travail) PREVENT, rue Gachard 88, Bte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, rev. ed., 2005. 34p. Illus., ISBN 2-87112-100-1 (fr), ISBN 2-87112-99-4 (nl) (In Dutch, French)

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This guide describes the legal requirements for occupational accident reporting in the private sector in Belgium. It explains the different sections of the occupational accident notification form and provides in the appendices lists of codes needed to fill in the form. It also shows examples of accident reports. Replaces CIS 00-1312. (107189)

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CIS 07-1050 Evaluation of occupational hazards. (French: Evaluation des risques professionnels) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 2007. Internet document. Illus. 6 ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/C7E1DF720A0E72D0
   …C1256D50004FCD65/$FILE/print.html

The a priori evaluation of occupational hazards consists of identifying and classifying the hazards faced by employees of an enterprise, with the aim of implementing suitable preventive actions. It is the first step of an occupational safety and health policy. The evaluation follows a structured procedure and the results are presented in the "single document". This document should be available to the safety and health committee, the occupational physician and, on request, to labour inspectors and regional occupational health insurance inspectors. This Internet document explains the reasons for evaluating occupational hazards and provides guidance on the French legal framework, how to carry out an evaluation and sources of additional information. (107040)

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CIS 07-1051 General guidebook on industrial safety 2006. Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association (JISHA), 5-35-1 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0014, Japan, 2007. 169p. Illus. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.jicosh.gr.jp/english/publication/gernal_guidebook/2006edition.pdf

Statistical report on occupational accidents in Japan. Contents: implementation procedure for National Safety Week 2006; current status of industrial accidents and trends from the 1970s (injuries, fatalities, serious accidents by industry and type of accident); outline of amendments to the Industrial Safety and Health Act (CIS 92-352); basic measures for prevention of occupational accidents; accident case studies; texts of guidelines and of other major notifications on safety. (107186)

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CIS 07-1052 Implementation of a policy for workers' well-being. (Dutch: Organisatie ven het welzijnbeleid.; French: Organisation de la politique du bien-être) Van den Broek K., ed., PREVENT, rue Gachard 88, Bte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, rev. ed., 2006. 22p. Illus., ISBN 2-87112-107-9 (fr), ISBN 90-70902-88-5 (nl) (In Dutch, French)

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This booklet provides guidance on the implementation of a policy for workers' well-being in Belgium. It explains the legal and other requirements for measures to ensure the well-being of workers and sets out the roles of the employer, the workers, the safety and health committee and internal and external safety and health services. Replaces CIS 01-296. (107190)

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CIS 07-1053 Guidelines on occupational safety and health management systems - ILO-OSH 2001. (Vietnamese: Huong dan He thong quan ly an toan va ve sinh lao đong ILO-OSH 2001) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2002. 69p. Korean version; 45p. Thai version; 58p. Vietnamese version. Illus. 37 ref., ISBN 974-9567-85-4 (TH) (In Korean, Thai, Vietnamese)

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Korean, Thai and Vietnamese translations of the ILO-OSH 2001 guidelines (see CIS 02-162). The guidelines present practical approaches and tools for assisting organizations, competent national institutions, employers, workers and other partners in establishing, implementing and improving occupational safety and health management systems, with the aim of reducing work-related injuries, ill health, diseases, incidents and deaths. They provide for the establishment of a national framework for occupational safety and health management systems, the development of voluntary arrangements to strengthen compliance with regulations and standards and the integration of OSH management system elements as an important component of overall policy and management arrangements. (107199)

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CIS 07-1054 Challenges in industrial hygiene. (French: Objectifs futurs de l'hygiène industrielle; German: Die Arbeitshygiene vor neuen und grösseren Aufgaben) Doyle H.N., International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS-ILO), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Mar. 1962. 5p. (In English, French, German)

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This information note provides the text of a paper presented at the 1959 National Health Forum (Chicago, 17-29 March, 1959). It reviews recent advances in the field of industrial hygiene and emphasizes the need to define future objectives. (107235)

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CIS 07-1055 Fifty years of international collaboration in occupational safety and health. (French: Cinquante années de collaboration internationale au service de la santé et de la sécurité des travailleurs; German: Fünfzig Jahre internationale Zusammenarbeit auf dem Gebiet des Arbeitsschutzes) Robert M., Parmeggiani L., International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Apr. 1969. 69p. (In English, French, German)

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This information note reviews the work of the ILO in improving the safety and health conditions of workers during its first fifty years, 1919-1969. Topics covered include: the ILO's standard-setting activities; research and information; examples of the ILO's work in the areas of radiation protection, railway safety, standardization of industrial accident statistics and dust control; examples of technical cooperation; and future challenges. (107249)

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[ Top of page ]

002 Occupational medicine, epidemiology

CIS 07-1056 Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Hazardous exposures. (French: Bronchite chronique obstructive: des expositions à risques) Barruyer C., Prévention BTP, Feb. 2007, No.93, p.48-50. Illus. 2 ref. (In French)

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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by productive cough, shortness of breath and repeated pulmonary infections, leading to respiratory insufficiency and possibly death. While smoking remains the main cause of COPD, other risk factors include occupational exposure to silica, wood and textile fibre dusts. Topics addressed in this review article on COPD: occupations at risk, aggravating effect of smoking, early detection (spirometry), prevention plan and compensation. (107108)

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CIS 07-1057 Study of permanent work invalidity. Valencia: 2002-2005. (Spanish: Estudio sobre la incapacidad laboral permanente. Valencia: 2002-2005) Rivas Recio J.R., Sesé Madrazo C., Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Oct. 2006, Vol.LII, No.204, p.7-42. 5 ref. (In Spanish)

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The aim of this study on the causes and duration of incapacity to work was to determine the main diseases responsible for permanent incapacity (PI). It was carried out in Valencia, Spain, in two medical practices, between 2003 and 2005. It involved 5184 patients with or without work incapacity (59.36% men and 40.64% women). Permanent incapacity was declared for 48.3% of the evaluated patients. The main diseases responsible for total incapacity to work were musculoskeletal diseases (43.33% of PI); mental disorders (15.85%); injury and poisoning (10.86%); cardiovascular diseases (9.45%); neoplasms (7.9%); disorders of the nervous system and sensory organs (5.92%) and respiratory disorders (2.46%). (107012)

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CIS 07-1058 Selection of reference films based on reliability assessment of a classification of high-resolution computed tomography for pneumoconioses. Suganuma N., Kusaka Y., Hering K.G., Vehmas T., Kraus T., Parker J.E., Shida H., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, June 2006, Vol.79, No.6, p.472-476. Illus. 10 ref. (In English)

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There is increasing worldwide demand for a computed tomography (CT) classification system that supplements the ILO classification of radiographs for pneumoconioses. This study aimed to demonstrate the reliability of preliminary test results for selected referent films for the CT classification system developed through an international effort by researchers from seven countries. Findings are discussed. (107052)

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CIS 07-1059 Elimination of silicosis. Kortum E., World Health Organization (WHO), ed., GOHNET Newsletter, 2007, No. 12. p.1-20 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.who.int/entity/occupational_health/publications/newsletter/gohnet12e.pdf
http://www.who.int/entity/occupational_health/publications/newsletter/gohnet12eref.pdf

Silicosis is a form of pneumoconiosis caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica dust. It causes inflammation and scarring of the upper lobes of the lungs. It is characterized by shortness of breath, fever and cyanosis (bluish skin). Contents of this issue on the elimination of silicosis: ILO/WHO global programme for the elimination of silicosis; preventing exposure to dust; other silica-related diseases, including chronic obstructive bronchitis; silicosis prevention programmes in Chile, the USA, India and Brazil. (107089)

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CIS 07-1060 Occupation and lung cancer mortality in a nationally representative U.S. cohort: The National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). Lee D.J., Fleming L.E., LeBlanc W.G., Arheart K.L., Chung-Bridges K., Christ S.L., Caban A.J., Pitman T., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.48, No.8, p.823-832. 61 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to assess the risk of lung cancer mortality in a representative sample of U.S. workers by occupation. The National Death Index identified 1812 lung cancer deaths among 143,863 workers who participated in the 1987, 1988, and 1990-1994 National Health Interview Surveys. Current and former smoking status was predictive of lung cancer mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 15.1 and 3.8, respectively). Occupations with significantly higher risk for age- and smoking- adjusted lung cancer mortality included heating/air/refrigeration mechanics (HR 3.0), non-specified mechanics and repairers (HR 2.8), financial records processing occupations (HR 1.8), freight, stock, and materials handlers (HR 1.5) and precision production occupations (HR 1.4). (107167)

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CIS 07-1061 Morbidity of occupational diseases in hard coal mines. (Polish: Zachorowalność na choroby zawodowe w kopalniach węgla kamiennego) Rydlewski J., WUG Bezpieczeństwo Pracy i Ochrona Środowiska w Górnictwie, 2006, No.1, p.26-29, 6 ref. (In Polish)

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Definitions and criteria of occupational diseases are presented along with data on occupational diseases in hard coal mines. Occupational diseases by number and type in individual mining establishments in Poland are listed in a table. (107203)

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CIS 07-1062 Decade of occupational diseases. (Polish: Dekada chorób zawodowych) Wawrzyniak U., Praca i Zdrowie, 2007, No.1/2, p.32-34. Illus. (In Polish)

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Statistical data on the frequency rates of occupational diseases in Poland are analysed. Factors influencing the decrease in the number of recorded occupational diseases and the improvement in workers' health are identified. (107215)

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CIS 07-1063 Occupational diseases of the visual organs. (Polish: Choroby zawodowe narządu wzroku) Korporowicz D., Lekarz Medycyny Pracy , 2007, No.1, p.8-10. (In Polish)

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This article lists disorders of the visual organs classed as occupational diseases according to Polish legislation. The causes of these diseases (physical, chemical and biological factors) and their characteristic symptoms are described along with methods of prevention and treatment. (107219)

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CIS 07-1064 Legal provisions relating to occupational safety and health for industrial medicine practitioners - Parts 1 and 2. (Polish: Przepisy o bezpieczeństwie i higienie pracy dla lekarza medycyny pracy Cz.1 i Cz.2) Piątkiewicz J.A., Lekarz Medycyny Pracy , 2007, No.2, p.3-7, No.3, p.3-8. (In Polish)

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Basic responsibilities of industrial medicine practitioners are specified and the regulations relating to occupational safety and health in the Polish Labour Code are discussed. (107217)

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CIS 07-1065 Work and health. Amasinghe N.C., Sri Lanka Labour Gazette, Jan.-Mar. 2006, Vol.57, No.1, p.10-16. Illus. 2 ref. (In English)

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Topics addressed in this review of occupational health: occupational heath hazards; summary of the findings of a survey on work and health in the European Union; stress at work; incidence of occupational diseases; underreporting of occupational diseases in Sri Lanka; accidents and injury at work; importance of work in ensuring a good physical and mental state of health; illnesses that can be dangerous for certain occupations (epilepsy and heart attacks for drivers and machine operators, infectious diseases for health care and food industry workers). (107153)

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CIS 07-1066 Silicosis. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1940. 223p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. (In English)

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Proceedings of the international conference on silicosis held in Geneva, Switzerland, 29 August-9 September 1938. Includes reports and notes submitted to the conference and discussions by conference participants. (107222)

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CIS 07-1067 Occupational medicine subjects in practice. (Greek: Themata iatrikēs ergasias stēn praxē) Bazas T., Ellēnikē Etairia Dioikēseōs Epiheirēseōs (EEDE), Athens, Greece, 2nd ed., 1999. 204p. 16 ref., ISBN 960-91213-0-6 (In Greek)

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This book provides an introduction to practical occupational health for physicians and other health service professionals. Contents: occupational medicine as a speciality in the service of all employees; contribution of the occupational physician to productivity increase; information required for the proper organization and provision of health services in large and medium-size industries; evaluation of occupational health risk; preventive medical examinations; epidemiology and occupational medicine; ergonomics and health at work; occupational mental health problems; occupational diseases; noise; protection against occupational hazards; occupational accidents; workers' welfare facilities; first aid; working environment. The previous edition was abstracted as CIS 81-1773. (107223)

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CIS 07-1068 Workers' health: Draft global plan of action. (French: Projet de plan d'action mondial pour la santé des travailleurs; Spanish: Salud de los trabajadores: proyecto de plan de acción mundial) World Health Organization (WHO), 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2007. 7p. (In English, French, Spanish)

Internet:
http://www.who.int/gb/ebwha/pdf_files/EB120/B120_28-en.pdf

http://www.who.int/gb/ebwha/pdf_files/EB120/B120_28-sp.pdf

http://www.who.int/gb/ebwha/pdf_files/EB120/B120_28-fr.pdf

A draft global plan of action on workers' health 2008-2017 was drawn up in order to provide a policy framework for concerted action to protect, promote and improve the health of all workers. It is based on proposals for national and international action received from 104 countries through a survey carried out in 2005 and takes into account directions set out in the Eleventh General Programme of Work and the Medium-term Strategic Plan 2008-2013. WHO Member States, international organizations of employers and trade unions, and WHO collaborating centres for occupational health were consulted in finalizing the document. The proposed plan of action deals with all aspects of workers' health, including primary prevention of occupational hazards, protection and promotion of health at work, employment conditions, and a better response from health systems to workers' health. (107225)

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CIS 07-1069 Epidemiological surveillance in occupational settings. (French: Surveillance épidémiologique en milieu professionnel) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Feb. 2005. Internet document. 17 ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/C338AA86C1132F66
   …C1256FA4005CA7D2/$FILE/print.html

Epidemiological surveillance in occupational settings consists of the systematic and regular collection, statistical analysis and interpretation of data on demographic factors, health problems and occupational factors. It is an alerting tool for the detection of work-related health problems and the identification of appropriate interventions. This Internet document provides a general overview of the objectives of epidemiological surveillance along with practical guidance on its implementation. (107038)

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CIS 07-1070 Health surveillance of workers. (Dutch: Het gezondheidstoezicht op de werknemers; French: La surveillance de santé des travailleurs) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 48p. Illus. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=5942

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=5102

Aimed at employers, this guide comments on the Belgian Royal Order of 28 May 2003 on the health monitoring of workers (see CIS 02-1511) and explains how to ensure its compliance within the enterprise. Topics addressed: objectives; responsibilities of employers, workers and safety committees; organization of health evaluation in practice; details of health evaluation; prohibition of work without a medical examination; cooperation and appeals; role of occupational physicians; special provisions for young workers, interns and pregnant women. (107127)

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[ Top of page ]

003 Industries and occupations

CIS 07-1071 Morbidity in expatriates - A prospective cohort study. Patel D., Easmon C., Seed P., Dow C., Snashall D., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.56, p.345-352. 24 ref. (In English)

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This study was performed to assess the incidence of health events in an expatriate group and to evaluate factors affecting this incidence. A cohort of 2020 Foreign and Commonwealth Office staff and partners living abroad were followed-up over one year. Data were collected by means of a self-administered questionnaire and subjected to statistical evaluation. The incidence of health events was 21%. Trauma (incidence 5%), musculoskeletal disorders (incidence 4%) and infectious disease (incidence 3%) were the principal causes of morbidity. The incidence of psychological disorders was low (1%). Employees were at increased risk of morbidity compared to partners, with a higher incidence of health events (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.4) and psychological disorders (IRR 5.9). Moreover, unaccompanied employees were at increased risk of health events (IRR 1.3), and of traumatic injury (IRR 2.3) compared to accompanied employees. (107143)

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CIS 07-1072 A socio-technical approach of risk management applied to collisions involving fishing vessels. Morel G., Chauvin C., Safety Science, Aug. 2006, Vol.44, No.7, p.599-619. Illus. 26 ref. (In English)

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In this study, a case-by-case analysis of collisions at sea involving fishing vessels resulted in the identification of two basic causes: undetected signals and wrong diagnoses. It also allowed definition of the real operating space of the functional units (fishing vessels) most often involved in collisions, as well as the permeable areas of the safety barriers, through which operations migrate toward unsafe zones. As far as the collision risk is concerned, functional units work in a borderline area, close to the limits of safe behaviour. To prevent accidents, it is necessary to reinforce these safety barriers, thus limiting the migration factor and bringing the functional units back into an area where the factors of safety, performance and individual profitability are all acceptable. (107158)

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CIS 07-1073 Cancer morbidity in iron and steel workers in Korea. Ahn Y.S., Park R.M., Stayner L., Kang S.K., Jang J.K., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.49, p.647-657. 46 ref. (In English)

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Cancer morbidity at two Korean iron and steel complexes was analyzed using Poisson regression methods. Work histories were merged with the national cancer registry for 44,974 workers who were followed from 1988 to 2001. Four hundred and sixty-four cancers were diagnosed over 14 years. Based on national cancer rates, the cohort exhibited a healthy worker effect for all cancers (standardized incidence rate SIR=0.87) reflecting relative good health, particularly for lung cancer (SIR=0.58), stomach cancer (SIR=0.78) and liver cancer (SIR=0.83). Lung cancer morbidity was significantly elevated at the affiliated plants versus the parent plants (standardized risk ratio SRR=2.35), and all-cancer morbidity was significantly elevated for maintenance workers compared to office and production workers (SRR=1.27). Lymphohaematopoietic cancer incidence was higher in the coke plants (SRR=3.46) and stomach cancer incidence was higher in the maintenance departments (SRR=1.66). Implications of these findings are discussed. (107146)

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CIS 07-1074 Occupational safety and health during heat treatment operations for metals and their alloys. (Polish: Instrukcja bezpieczeństwa i higieny pracy podczas zabiegów obróbki cieplnej, którym poddawane są metale i ich stopy) Kowalewski W., Przyjaciel przy Pracy, 2005, No.12, p.21-23. (In Polish)

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The basic principles and definitions of heat treatment operations for the hardening of metals are presented and essential safety measures to be undertaken by each employee before, during and after the work are detailed. Prohibited activities during heat treatment operations are also indicated. (107202)

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CIS 07-1075 Occupational accidents: Cost of the risk. (French: Accidents du travail: le coût du risque) Tournigand S., Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.37-46. Illus. 1 ref. (In French)

Internet:

Main topics addressed in this collection of articles on the cost of occupational accidents and occupational diseases (OA-OD) in the construction industry in France: operating deficits in the OA-OD insurance business and need for reforming the system; incentives for encouraging investment in preventive measures; comparison of the funding systems in various European countries; view of the manager of a firm specializing in auditing OA-OD insurance; using the single document (see CIS 01-1278) for calculating the benefits of investment in preventive measures. (107007)

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CIS 07-1076 Occupational exposures and head and neck cancers among Swedish construction workers. Purdue M.P., Järvholm B., Bergdahl I.A., Hayes R.B., Baris D., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.32, No.4, p.270-275. 49 ref. (In English)

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The relationship between selected occupational exposures and cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx was investigated using data from a large cohort of Swedish construction workers. Altogether 510 squamous cell carcinomas (171 in the oral cavity, 112 in the pharynx, 227 in the larynx) were identified during 1971-2001 among 307,799 male construction workers. Exposures to diesel exhaust, asbestos, organic solvents, metal dust, asphalt, wood dust, stone dust, mineral wool and cement dust were assessed using a job-exposure matrix. Rate ratios (RR) were calculated for these cancers in relation to occupational exposure, using Poisson regression with adjustment for age and smoking status. Asbestos exposure was related to an increased laryngeal cancer incidence (RR 1.9). Excesses of pharyngeal cancer were observed among workers exposed to cement dust (RR 1.9). No occupational exposures were associated with oral cavity cancer. These findings did not materially change upon additional adjustment for smoking. (107094)

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CIS 07-1077 A survey of working conditions of women workers in the construction industry. Walpita W.D.B.S., Sri Lanka Labour Gazette, Apr.-June 2006, Vol.57, No.2, p.22-49. Illus. 22 ref. (In English)

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The level of female participation in the Sri Lankan construction industry has increased during the last decade. The objective of this survey was to examine the general working conditions of women labourers and to highlight issues and problems faced by these women from a social, economic and individual perspective. A second objective was to review the labour standards applicable to this sector and to highlight shortcomings and areas of improvement. Data were collected from a sample of 100 unskilled women labourers by means of interviewer-administered questionnaires. Findings are discussed. (107154)

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CIS 07-1078 Analysis of permanent incapacity among seafarers. Ceuta, 1955-2005. (Spanish: Análisis de la incapacidad permanente en los trabajadores del mar. Ceuta, 1955-2005.) López Montiel M., Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Oct. 2006, Vol.LII, No.204, p.43-51. Illus. 12 ref. (In Spanish)

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Medical files for permanent incapacity opened between 1995 and 2005 by the Marine Institute of Ceuta, Spain, were analysed to determine the diseases responsible for permanent incapacity and the profile of the affected seafarers. Results indicate that permanent incapacity in seafaring affects mainly men in their fifties working under precarious conditions, and is mainly caused by musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Occupational accidents affect younger seafarers (average age 44.2 years). (107013)

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CIS 07-1079 Stroke among male professional drivers in Denmark, 1994-2003. Tüchsen F., Hannerz H., Roepstorff C., Krause N., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2006, Vol.63, No.7, p.456-460. 39 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to estimate the relative risk of stroke among various groups of professional drivers. A cohort of 6285 bus drivers, 4204 car, taxi and van drivers, and 25,879 heavy truck drivers were followed up for hospital admission due to stroke and sub-diagnoses in the period 1994-2003. The standardized hospitalization ratios (SHR) were calculated using hospital admission for all economically active men as the standard. Findings are discussed. All groups of professional drivers were found to be at increased risk of stroke, but the risk was higher among drivers carrying passengers than among drivers carrying goods. (107063)

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CIS 07-1080 Work-related maritime fatalities. O'Connor P.J., O'Connor N., Accident Analysis and Prevention, July 2006, Vol.38, No.4, p.737-741. Illus. 19 ref. (In English)

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During the period 1992-1998 there were 74 fatalities among seafarers in Australia, including 46 commercial fishermen, 12 seamen involved in the transport of cargo and 16 miscellaneous workers. The main contributing factors were hazardous weather conditions, errors of judgment, unsafe practices and failure to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) in circumstances where they would have saved life. Attention should be focused on reducing alcohol use and increasing PFD availability and usage. (107069)

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CIS 07-1081 Update of mortality and cancer incidence in the Australian petroleum industry cohort. Gun R.T., Pratt N., Ryan P., Roder D., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2006, Vol.63, No.7, p.476-481. 28 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to update an earlier study of mortality and cancer incidence among workers in the Australian petroleum industry (for a previous update, see CIS 03-1626). Cause-specific mortality and cancer incidence for workers employed between 1981 and 2001 were compared with those of the Australian population by means of standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and standardized incidence ratios (SIRs). Associations between increased incidence of specific cancers and employment in the petroleum industry were tested by trends according to period of first employment, duration of employment, latency, and hydrocarbon exposure, adjusting for smoking. There was a significant elevation of the incidence of mesothelioma (SIR 1.77), melanoma (SIR 1.37) and prostate cancer (SIR 1.18). Tanker drivers had a significantly elevated incidence of kidney cancer (12 cases v 5.84 expected, SIR 2.05). Lung cancer incidence was significantly reduced (SIR 0.69). Other findings are discussed. Most cases of mesothelioma are probably related to past exposure to asbestos in refineries. (107065)

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CIS 07-1082 Risks of biliary tract cancer and occupational exposures among Shanghai women textile workers: A case-cohort study. Chang C.K., Astrakianakis G., Thomas D.B., Seixas N.S., Camp J.E., Ray R.M., Gao D.L., Wernli K.J., Li W., Fitzgibbons E.D., Vaughan T.L., Checkoway H., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.49, p.690-698. 42 ref. (In English)

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The associations between occupational exposures to textile dusts and chemicals and biliary tract cancer (BTC) were investigated in a cohort of 267,400 women textile workers in Shanghai, China. A nested case-cohort analysis of 162 BTC cases diagnosed during 1989-1998 was conducted with a reference subcohort of 3,188 workers. Exposures to workplace dusts and chemicals were reconstructed by linking complete work history data with a job-exposure matrix. Hazard ratios (HR) and dose-response trends were estimated by Cox proportional hazards modelling modified for case-cohort design. An elevated risk for employment of one year or more in maintenance jobs (HR 2.92) with a significant trend by duration was observed. Excess risk was also found for more than 20 years exposure to metals (HR 2.50). (107148)

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CIS 07-1083 Wood - Design of a woodworking shop. (French: Bois - Concevoir un atelier de menuiserie) Prévention BTP, Feb. 2007, No.93, p.32-33. Illus. (In French)

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There are numerous occupational safety and health hazards present in woodworking shops. They include the use of woodworking machine tools, the manual handling of workpieces, noise, the inhalation of solvents and wood dust, and electrocution. This article proposes the design of a woodworking shop with a layout of equipment aimed at minimizing these hazards. (107106)

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CIS 07-1084 Safety and health in the food sector. (Spanish: Protección y seguridad en el sector de alimentos) Mejía P., Cújar M., González O., González Villarejo P.M., Protección y seguridad, Sep.-Oct. 2006, Vol.52, No.309, p.54-79. Illus. 4 ref. (In Spanish)

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Main topics addressed in this collection of articles on safety in the food sector: challenges in risk management in the food sector; good manufacturing practices; assurances concerning the freedom from risk of food items; characteristics and advantages of single-use work clothing; diseases transmitted by food; guide to the vaccination of food sector workers in Colombia; broad outline of Decree 3075 of 1997 regulating activities that generate risks of food contamination; safety of food packaging and food preservation. (107019)

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CIS 07-1085 United States firefighting deaths related to training 1996-2005. Fahy R.F., NFPA Journal, July-Aug. 2006, Vol.100, No.4, p.40-49. Illus. (In English)

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Training is a vital part of fire department operations, but it too often results in preventable deaths and injuries. Between 1997 and 2005, 239 firefighters died during training in the USA, corresponding to 7.3% of all on-duty firefighter deaths. This article discusses more specifically the training deaths occurring since 1996. Topics addressed: statistical trends; sudden cardiac arrest; falls; live-fire training; underwater training; age-linked differences. (107049)

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CIS 07-1086 U.S. firefighter fatalities for 2005. Fahy R.F., Leblanc P.R., NFPA Journal, July-Aug. 2006, Vol.100, No.4, p.50-63. Illus. 4 ref. (In English)

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In 2005, 87 on-duty firefighter deaths occurred in the USA. This compares to the 103 firefighter fatalities in 2004. Stress and overexertion, which usually result in heart attacks or other sudden cardiac events, continued to be the leading case of fatalities. The 87 on-duty deaths represent the lowest total since 1993 and the third lowest death toll since statistics are available. Charts show deaths by type of duty, cause, nature of injury, age and other criteria. A number of short descriptions of fatal accidents are included. (107050)

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CIS 07-1087 Safety under water. (Polish: Bezpiecznie pod wodą) Dąbrowski B., Inspektor Pracy, 2005, No.12, p.22-24. Illus. (In Polish)

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The main hazards associated with work under water are described and procedures, techniques and equipment to ensure diver safety are presented. (107201)

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CIS 07-1088 OHWL 50: Occupational health and working life after the age of 50. (French: SVP 50: Santé et vie professionnelle après 50 ans) Boitel L., Bardot F., Bardouillet M.C., Buisset C., Castel M.J., Jabot F., Juillard G., Molinié A.F., Pommier J.L., Presseq P., Volkoff S., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 3rd quarter 2006, Vol.46, No.3, p.309-318. Illus. 10 ref. (In French)

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This article presents the main findings of a survey carried out with the help of 650 occupational physicians, among more than 11,000 French workers aged over 50. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire administered by the occupational physician, comprising questions on socio-demographic aspects, job characteristics, the meaning of work and recognition, job history, retirement prospects and state of health. (107001)

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CIS 07-1089 Case studies on the impact of mechanisation and the use of chemicals on safety and health in agriculture. International Labour Office, Working Conditions and Environment Department, Occupational Safety and Health Branch, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Jan. 1989. 257p. Bibl.ref., ISBN 92-2-107006-9 (In English)

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These case studies were developed in ten countries in Africa and Asia with a view to identifying the problems and orienting national and international action. The general outline of each monograph is as follows: agricultural workforce; agricultural products; traditional work practices; modern work practices with special regard to machinery and agrochemicals; existing infrastructure for the provision of advice on the use of machinery and agrochemicals; hazards and injuries; safety and health practice; conclusions on the need for preventive action. (107227)

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CIS 07-1090 Work in the fishing sector. International Labour Conference, 96th Session, 2007. (French: Le travail dans le secteur de la pêche. Conférence internationale du Travail, 96e session, 2007; Spanish: Trabajo en el sector pesquero. Conferencia Internacional del Trabajo, 96.a reunión, 2007) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. vi,118p. Illus., ISBN 978-92-2-118137-8 (En), ISBN 978-92-2-218137-7 (fr), ISBN 978-92-2-318137-6 (es) (In English, French, Spanish)

Internet:
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/standards/relm/ilc/ilc96/pdf/rep-iv-2a.pdf

http://www.ilo.org/public/spanish/standards/relm/ilc/ilc96/pdf/rep-iv-2a.pdf

http://www.ilo.org/public/french/standards/relm/ilc/ilc96/pdf/rep-iv-2a.pdf

This report was prepared for the 96th session of the International Labour Conference in 2007 and presents a summary of the replies received by the Office to the questionnaire concerning the proposed Convention and Recommendation on work in the fishing sector. Includes ILO commentary and the report of the Interregional Tripartite Round Table on Labour Standards for the Fishing Sector, December 2006. (107229)

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CIS 07-1091 Work in the fishing sector. International Labour Conference, 96th Session, 2007. (French: Le travail dans le secteur de la pêche. Conférence internationale du Travail, 96e session, 2007; Spanish: Trabajo en el sector pesquero. Conferencia Internacional del Trabajo, 96.a reunión, 2007) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. 84p., ISBN 978-92-2-018138-6 (En, fr), ISBN 978-92-2-318138-3 (es) (In English, French, Spanish)

Internet:
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/standards/relm/ilc/ilc96/pdf/rep-iv-2b.pdf

http://www.ilo.org/public/spanish/standards/relm/ilc/ilc96/pdf/rep-iv-2b.pdf

http://www.ilo.org/public/english/standards/relm/ilc/ilc96/pdf/rep-iv-2b.pdf

This report was prepared for the 96th session of the International Labour Conference in 2007 and contains the draft text of the proposed Convention and Recommendation concerning work in the fishing sector. (107230)

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CIS 07-1092 Globalization and sustainability: The forestry and wood industries on the move. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2001. iv, 122p. Illus. 174 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/dialogue/sector/techmeet/tmfwi01/tmfwir.pdf

http://www.ilo.org/public/spanish/dialogue/sector/techmeet/tmfwi01/tmfwir.pdf
http://www.ilo.org/public/french/dialogue/sector/techmeet/tmfwi01/tmfwir.pdf

The forestry sector has been subject to intense economic and environmental pressures over the past decade. In order to enable a social dialogue between governments, employers and workers from countries with significant forest industries, the ILO held a tripartite meeting to exchange views on trends in structural adjustment, globalization and relocation in the forestry and wood industries. This report was prepared for discussion at the meeting. It covers globalization trends, sustainable development, decent work and social dialogue. (107078)

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CIS 07-1093 Statistics of occupational accidents and diseases in the construction sector. (French: Statistiques accidents du travail et maladies professionnelles BTP) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Apr. 2007. Internet document. Illus. 4 ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/4595DE5436ED33ED
   …C1256F50004A14D8/$FILE/print.html

This Internet document presents the statistics of occupational accidents and diseases for 2005 in the construction sector in France, together with trends in the number and severity of occupational accidents and diseases since 1990. The data indicate that the number of occupational accident cases declined during the period, while the number of occupational diseases increased up to 2002 and then levelled off. The number of fatal accidents is in sharp decline. (107039)

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CIS 07-1094 Statistical profile of occupational injuries and their severity in food industry workers, 2001-2004. (French: Profil statistique des lésions professionnelles et de leur gravité chez les travailleurs de la restauration, 2001-2004) Godin J.F., Massicotte 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. x, 74p. Illus. 9 ref. Price: CAD 10.07. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-088-3 (In French)

Internet:
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-482.pdf

Restaurant services constitute a high-risk area for occupational injuries. They rank first in the number of occupational injuries compensated in Quebec, and their manual workers are more frequently injured than those of other sectors of activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate these occupational injuries and their severity, based on the characteristics of the individuals, their jobs, and the types of injuries that occurred in the food services industry between 2001 and 2004. It is based on compensation data. The report includes accident scenarios, together with a generic description of workers in this sector and a description of typical accident profiles. (107139)

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CIS 07-1095 Gender equality, work and health: A review of the evidence. Messing K., Östlin P., World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service,1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2006. viii, 46p. Illus. 156 ref., ISBN 92-4-159353-9 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.who.int/entity/gender/documents/Genderworkhealth.pdf

This publication documents the relationship between gender inequality and safety and health problems. It reviews gender issues in research, policies and programmes on work and health, and highlights some specific issues for women, including the types of jobs they do, as well as their need to reconcile the demands of work and family. Biological differences between women and men also are considered in relation to hazards they face in the workplace. Implications of the findings and recommendations for legislation and policy are discussed. (107086)

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CIS 07-1096 Summary and perspectives of research on young workers' OHS. (French: Bilan et perspectives de recherche sur la SST des jeunes travailleurs) Ledoux E., Laberge M., 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, 71p. Illus. Approx. 250 ref. Price: CAD 9.54. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-086-9 (In French)

Internet:
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-481.pdf

According to data for the year 2000, young persons aged between 15 and 25 years make up 15% of the Quebec workforce and perform 10% of the hours of the total working population, but represent 17% of the compensated occupational injuries. In view of this situation, the IRSST initiated a research project on the occupational safety and health problems of young workers. This report provides a statistical profile of young workers and OSH, outlines a framework for the study and sets out the objectives of the research. (107138)

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CIS 07-1097 Safety and health in opencast mines. (Chinese: Lutian kuangshan anquan yu weisheng: shiyong guicheng) China Labor Press, Beijing, China, 1992. iv, 92p., ISBN 7-5045-1160-9 (In Chinese)

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This ILO code of practice is a Chinese translation of the document indexed under CIS 92-175 and covers occupational safety and health in opencast mines. Contents: general provisions and duties; training; design and methods; machinery and plant; electrical apparatus; surface building structure; tips, dams and lagoons; fire protection and fire-fighting; explosives and shotfiring; drilling and rotary jet piercing; excavation and loading; dredges and other floating installations; transport and handling of materials; mobile and travelling cranes; hazards in the working environment and environmental protection; first aid and medical services; recording and notification of accidents, notifiable diseases and dangerous occurrences; consultation on health and safety; protective clothing and equipment. Miscellaneous provisions cover: general conduct; employment of workers speaking different languages; admission of outside persons; safety signs. (107191)

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CIS 07-1098 Safety and health in the non-ferrous metals industries. (Polish: Bezpieczeństwo i zdrowie w hutnictwie metali nieżelanznych) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. xiii, 185p., ISBN 92-2-818083-8 (In Polish)

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This ILO code of practice is a Polish translation of the document indexed under CIS 03-698. It provides workers, employers and governments with practical safety and health guidelines for non-ferrous metals production, including aluminium, copper, lead, nickel and zinc. It focuses on the general principles of prevention and protection, including risk assessment and management, training, and workplace and health surveillance. The main part of the code identifies and examines a range of physical hazards that are commonly encountered during the production of non-ferrous metals such as noise, vibration, heat stress, radiation, confined spaces, dust and chemicals. Safety and health measures for working with furnaces, molten metal, alloys and recycling are also discussed. (107210)

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CIS 07-1099 Occupational safety and health in the construction sector. (French: La prévention dans le bâtiment et les travaux publics) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, June 2004. Internet document. Illus. 28 ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/647DD7CB567D308C
   …C1256D55005AEC46/$FILE/print.html

This Internet document addresses the need to plan for the organization of safety and health on construction sites in France, highlighting the roles of all those concerned from the design stage to the execution of the work. It provides a list of references on occupational safety and health in the construction sector covering accident prevention, legal requirements, maintenance procedures and safety during specific operations. (107035)

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CIS 07-1100 National code of practice for induction for construction work. Australian Safety and Compensation Council, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, Loc 64N1, GPO Box 9879, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia, 2007. iii, 25p. Illus., ISBN 1-920763-87-2 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.ascc.gov.au/NR/rdonlyres/FBD41330-5268-479D-B459-B997B268D988/0/Induc
   …tion_Code_of_Practice_complete.pdf

This Code of Practice (based on the National Standard for Construction Work, see CIS 06-1385) provides guidance to persons working in the general and residential construction sectors on the types of induction training that may be needed to provide construction workers with an awareness and understanding of common hazards on construction sites and how they should be managed. (107179)

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CIS 07-1101 Safety and health in chemical laboratories. (Dutch: Veiligheid en hygiëne in chemische laboratoria; French: Sécurité et hygiène dans les laboratoires de chimie) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation Sociale, 1 rue Ernest Blerot 1, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, rev. ed. 2006. 43p. Illus. 1 ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4274

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4274

This booklet describes the main hazards encountered in chemical laboratories (explosion, fire, violent reaction, health hazards, chemical and thermal burns, frostbite, electrocution, ionizing radiation) and recommends prevention measures for each hazard. Replaces CIS 01-477. (107172)

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CIS 07-1102 Diving. (French: La plongée; German: Taucherarbeiten) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Sep. 1970. 31p. Illus. (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes safety precautions for diving operations down to a maximum depth of 50m. Contents: diving outfit and equipment; air supply; diving vessel and diving location; role of the diving team; preparation of diver's descent; underwater activities; ascent and decompression; treatment of decompression sickness; first aid. (107250)

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CIS 07-1103 7 Steps for defining an induction policy. (Dutch: 7 stappen voor het ontwikkelen van een onthaalbeleid; French: 7 étapes pour l'élaboration d'une politique d'accueil) Prevent, rue Gachard 88/4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, [ca 2006]. 8p. Illus. (In Dutch, French)

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Integrating new employees is a critical step for preventing occupational accidents. Young persons and new employees are more frequently injured than more experienced workers. This guide provides a step-by-step approach for developing a comprehensive policy for integrating new employees into the enterprise. Contents: defining the baseline; setting up a communication system; identifying problem areas; developing the plan; implementing the plan; evaluating the results; setting the policy on a firm basis. A leaflet for new workers summarizing the key safety rules is included. (107134)

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[ Top of page ]

004 New technologies

CIS 07-1104 Nanotechnology: In-depth review. Whatmore R.W., Aitken R.J., Chaudhry M.Q., Boxall A.B.A., Hull M., Garnett M.C., Kallinteri P., Seaton A., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.56, p.295-316. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English)

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Collection of four articles: I. Nanotechnology - what is it? Should we be worried? (by Whatmore R.W.) (theoretical aspects and current trends); II. Manufacture and use of nanomaterials: Current status in the UK and global trends (by Aitken R.J., Chaudry M.Q., Boxall A.B.A. and Hall M.); III. Nanomedicines and nanotoxicology: Some physiological examples (by Garnett M.C. and Kallinteri P.); IV. Nanotechnology and the occupational physician (by Seaton A.). (107141)

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CIS 07-1105 Automation and occupational health. (French: Hygiène du travail et automation; German: Gesundheitschutz und Automation) Parmeggiani L., International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Sep. 1966. 18p. 18 ref. (In English, French, German)

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This information note examines the general effects of automation on working conditions and explores the impact of automation on the mental health of workers and the role of occupational health in automation. (107244)

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CIS 07-1106 Work with screens. (Dutch: Beeldschermwerk; French: Travail avec écran) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 93p. Illus. 59 ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3832

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3832

The objective of the SOBANE approach (screening, observation, analysis and evaluation) is to ensure occupational safety and health by means of a systematic analysis of occupational hazards. This booklet presents the SOBANE approach applied to working at screens. Following a review of general aspects of occupational safety and health management, it explains how to proceed with the observation, analysis and evaluation, together with the qualifications required for carrying out these steps. The following topics are summarized on information sheets: desks and workplace layout; seats; office accessories; software; computer equipment; work-time organization; training; health surveillance. (107125)

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[ Top of page ]

005 Chemical safety

CIS 07-1107 Managing the asbestos risk. (French: Gestion du risque amiante) Roullier J.Y., Revue Technique Apave, 4th quarter 2006, No.316, p.25-27. Illus. (In French)

Internet:

French regulations on the protection of workers against risks related to the inhalation of asbestos dust were recently extended by new provisions, the consequences of which are reviewed in this article. These provisions mainly concern the training and supervision of workers exposed to asbestos or involved in asbestos removal. (107109)

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CIS 07-1108 Lead: An ever present hazard in the construction industry. (French: Plomb: un risque toujours d'actualité dans le BTP) Jolly H., Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.54-57. Illus. (In French)

Internet:

Many activities in the building sector may cause exposure to lead. This article discusses preventive measures, safety checks and simple hygiene rules that can ensure that the risk is managed. Contents: sources of lead (piping, paint); routes of entry (ingestion, inhalation of dust or smoke); checks to be made before and during the work; French regulations; lead poisoning; lead detectors; personal hygiene. (107008)

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CIS 07-1109 Congenital malformations related to maternal exposure to specific agents in biomedical research laboratories. Wennborg H., Magnusson L.L., Bonde J.P., Olsen J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.47, No.1, p.11-19. Illus. 48 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency of major congenital and neural crest malformations in the offspring of laboratory employees. It involved 3003 births among 1951 Swedish women laboratory workers. Exposure information was based on questionnaires, allowing women to be classified as being highly or weakly exposed. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated. The prevalences of major malformations were 2.3% among highly exposed women and 1.9% among weakly exposed women. ORs were 1.8 for solvent exposure before the third trimester, 1.2 for laboratory work in general and 5.3 for benzene exposure around the time of conception. No significant risk for laboratory work in general was seen, but there was an increased risk relative to exposures to solvents, especially benzene. These results are based on small numbers and should be interpreted cautiously. (107023)

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CIS 07-1110 Chemical safety. Aitio A., Hwang H.S., Lee D.W., Yu I.J., Araki S., Nordin R.B., Yokohama K., Kitamura F., Takeuchi Y., Estrella-Gust D.P., Cucueco T.S., San Jose M., Andres T.S., Luotamo M., de Bruijn J., Lehtinen S., Kaistha S., ed., Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Mar. 2005, Vol.12, No.1, p.3-22 (whole issue). Illus. 17 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.ttl.fi/NR/rdonlyres/D1711F11-1603-4C8E-ABDE-8E04324F138A/0/asianpacific1.pdf

Collection of articles on chemical safety of relevance to countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Contents: chemical regulatory framework in Korea; pesticide use, acute symptoms and nicotine absorption among tobacco farmers in Malaysia; ILO World Day for Safety and Health at Work; poisoning caused by newly-introduced chemicals and preventive measures; pesticide exposure among farmers in the Philippines; REACH proposal of the European Union aimed at improving chemical safety. (107030)

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CIS 07-1111 Primary prevention of latex related sensitisation and occupational asthma: A systematic review. LaMontagne A.D., Radi S., Elder D.S., Abramson M.J., Sim M., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2006, Vol.63, No.5, p.359-364. 22 ref. (In English)

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Eight primary prevention intervention studies on natural rubber latex (NRL) published since 1990 were identified and reviewed. Substitution of powdered latex gloves with low protein powder-free NRL gloves or latex-free gloves was found to greatly reduce NRL aeroallergens, NRL sensitization and NRL-asthma in healthcare workers. This substitution promises benefits to workers' health, and cost and human resource savings for employers. This message should be broadly disseminated beyond the hospital sector to include other healthcare settings (such as aged care facilities) as well as food service and other industries where latex gloves might be used. (107046)

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CIS 07-1112 Occupational asthma due to chromium and nickel salts. Fernández-Nieto M., Quirce S., Carnés J., Sastre J., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, June 2006, Vol.79, No.6, p.483-486. 16 ref. (In English)

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Exposure to chromium and nickel salts is a poorly characterized cause of occupational asthma. This article describes four patients with work-related asthma due to metallic salts. Skin tests to potassium dichromate and nickel sulfate were performed. The patients also underwent methacholine inhalation tests and specific inhalation challenges (SIC) with chromium and nickel salts. Two patients showed positive skin tests to potassium dichromate and nickel sulfate. All patients had bronchial hyperresponsiveness to methacholine, which increased 24h after SIC with metallic salts. SIC with potassium dichromate elicited late asthmatic reactions in two workers, one subject had an early asthmatic reaction, and another subject showed a dual asthmatic reaction. SIC with nickel sulfate induced a dual asthmatic reaction in one subject and a late asthmatic reaction in another. Chromium and nickel salts can give rise to occupational asthma in exposed workers. The underlying mechanism may be IgE-mediated. (107054)

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CIS 07-1113 Evaluation of peripheral blood neutrophil leucocytes in lead-exposed workers. Di Lorenzo L., Silvestroni A., Martino M.G., Gagliardi T., Corfiati M., Soleo L., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, June 2006, Vol.79, No.6, p.491-498. 44 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to verify whether occupational lead exposure induces changes in the number of blood neutrophil leucocytes, and to assess a possible dose-response relationship between blood lead (Pb-B) and the circulating neutrophil count in exposed workers. It involved 68 lead-exposed male workers and 59 unexposed male controls. A standardized questionnaire on occupational and non-occupational factors was administered to all the subjects. Blood and urine samples were collected and analysed. Compared to controls, exposed workers had significantly higher Pb-B and mean absolute neutrophil count (ANC). ANC correlated significantly with the biological lead dose and effect indices. Moreover, there was a dose-dependent increase of ANC with increasing Pb-B levels. There was also an interaction between Pb-B level and smoking habit in increasing the number of blood neutrophils among lead-exposed workers. (107056)

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CIS 07-1114 Occupational peri-ocular contact dermatitis due to sensitization against black rubber components of a microscope. Kuijpers D.I.M., Hillen F., Frank J.A., Contact Dermatitis, Aug. 2006, Vol.55, No.2, p.77-80. Illus. 19 ref. (In English)

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A 24-year-old woman working in the pathology department of a Dutch university hospital developed an acute periocular eczema clearly related to her daily work at the microscope. Patch testing revealed delayed type hypersensitivity against the black rubber mix, N-isopropyl-N'-phenyl-paraphenylenediamine, N-cyclohexyl-N'-phenyl-paraphenylenediamine and the rubber ring situated on the ocular of the microscope. (107099)

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CIS 07-1115 Skin diseases in workers at a perfume factory. Schubert H.J., Contact Dermatitis, Aug. 2006, Vol.55, No.2, p.81-83. 28 ref. (In English)

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The aim of this study was to investigate the causes of skin diseases in one-third of the staff of a perfume factory, in which 10 different perfume sprays were being manufactured. It involved site inspections, dermatological examinations and patch testing of all 26 persons at risk with four perfume oils and 30 of their constituents. Six bottlers were found to be suffering from allergic contact dermatitis, two from irritant contact dermatitis and 12 showed strong reactions to various fragrances. The main causes of allergic contact dermatitis were two perfume oils (12 cases) and their ingredients geraniol (12 cases), benzaldehyde (9), cinnamic aldehyde (6), linalool, neroli oil, terpenes of lemon oil and orange oil (4 each). None tested positive to balsam of Peru. Proposed measures to reduce the risks included changes to jobs with no contact with fragrances, automation, replacement of glass bottles by cartridges from non-fragile materials and use of gloves. (107100)

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CIS 07-1116 Workplace atmospheres - Air and its measurement. (French: Atmosphère des lieux de travail - L'air et la mesure) Brasseur G., Lampert S., Travail et sécurité, Feb. 2007, No.670, p.22-34. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.travail-et-securite.fr/ArchivesTS/ArchivesTS.nsf/(allDocParRef)/TS670
   …page23_1/$File/TS670page23.pdf?OpenElement

Topics addressed in this special feature on the protection of workplace atmospheres against chemical pollutants: risks caused by dusts (lung and respiratory diseases) and their prevention (collection at source, local exhaust, respirators); example of a ventilation system installed at a foundry; solvent collection in a food film plant; recycling of solvents in a composites factory; sampling and analysis techniques; calibration and reliability of measurements carried out by analytical laboratories; description of a European database of analytical methods available online. (107103)

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CIS 07-1117 Early identification of chemical carcinogenic hazards within the enterprise. (French: Dépister les risques cancérogènes chimiques dans l'entreprise) Prevent Focus, Jan. 2007, p.18-22. Illus. 4 ref. (In French)

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This article presents a structured approach for the early identification of chemical carcinogenic hazards within the enterprise. Topics addressed: key points for taking action against chemical carcinogenic hazards (identifying and ranking the risks, elimination or substitution, reducing the risk, training and information, follow-up and improvement); approach for identifying the risks, including those that are less obvious; roles of the various players; possible financial consequences of poor risk management; main carcinogenic chemicals and sectors of activity and occupations concerned. (107112)

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CIS 07-1118 Reach: 30,000 substances to be evaluated. (French: Reach: 30 000 substances à évaluer) Talia J., Face au risque, Feb. 2007, No.430, p.13-15. Illus. (In French)

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REACH is the acronym for "registration, evaluation and authorization of chemicals". This new regulation establishes a validation system for some 30,000 potentially hazardous chemicals manufactured within the European Union or imported, with the objective of replacing wherever possible the most dangerous substances by safer and less toxic products. This article summarizes the historical development, the main provisions and the time-table for the implementation of this regulation. (107114)

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CIS 07-1119 Antimony - A well-known toxic substance still not fully understood. (French: L'antimoine - Un vieux toxique toujours méconnu) Picot A., Préventique-Sécurité, Jan.-Feb. 2007, No.91, p.30-33. Illus. 14 ref. (In French)

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First part of a review article on the toxicology of antimony. Topics addressed: properties; uses of antimony in ancient times, in the Middle Ages and in recent times; production and use (catalysts, flame retardants, alloys); metabolism. The toxic effects of antimony are described in a second article (see CIS 07-1120). (107119)

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CIS 07-1120 Antimony - A toxic substance similar to arsenic. (French: L'antimoine - Un toxique proche de l'arsenic) Picot A., Préventique-Sécurité, Mar.-Apr. 2007, No.92, p.38-41. Illus. 21 ref. (In French)

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Second part of a review article on the toxicology of antimony, a toxic substance whose mode of action may be similar to that of arsenic. Topics addressed: acute toxicity (vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration that can lead to death); chronic toxicity (respiratory airway irritation, cardiovascular system damage, bronchial cancer); antimony trioxide classified by IARC as a possible human carcinogen (group 2B); environmental impact; hazard evaluation; need to reassess the current threshold limit value of 0.5mg/m3 (or 0.1ppm as antimony), established in 1953. For the first part of this article, see CIS 07-1119. (107120)

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CIS 07-1121 Respiratory health in Turkish asbestos cement workers: The role of environmental exposure. Akkurt İ., Önal B., Demir A.U., Tüzün D., Sabır H., Ulusoy L., Karadağ K.Ö., Ersoy N., Çöplü L., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.49, p.609-616.27 ref. (In English)

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A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the respiratory health effects of occupational asbestos exposure and the contribution of environmental asbestos exposure. Investigations included asbestos dust measurements in the workplace and application of an interviewer-administered questionnaire, a chest X-ray and spirometry. Information on birthplace of the workers was obtained in 406 workers and used to identify environmental exposure to asbestos, through a map of geographic locations with known asbestos levels. Asbestos dust concentration in the ambient air of the work sites (fibre/mL) ranged between 0.2 and 0.76. Environmental exposure to asbestos was determined in 24.4% of the workers. After adjustment for age, smoking, occupational asbestos exposure and potential risk factors, environmental asbestos exposure was associated with small irregular opacities grade ≥1/0 and decreased pulmonary function. Other findings are discussed. (107144)

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CIS 07-1122 Asbestos is not banned in North America. Castleman B.I., European Journal of Oncology, June 2006, Vol.11, No.2, p.85-88. 9 ref. (In English)

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Around the world, local asbestos industries oppose asbestos bans by pointing out that asbestos is not banned in the USA. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ban rule was overturned in a court challenge in 1991, and legislation to ban asbestos in the USA has been proposed but not yet been enacted. U.S. asbestos use has continued to plummet by over 90 % in the years since the ban was overturned, driven by public concerns, liability considerations and government regulations. The USA continues to import asbestos products that have not been manufactured in the USA for many years. Canada exports almost all of the asbestos from its mines, most of it to developing countries. Only 40 countries have ratified the International Labour Organization Asbestos Convention providing for minimal basic safeguards in asbestos use (see CIS 88-714). Public health workers seeking to widen the number of national asbestos bans consider Canada and the USA to be high priorities, despite the minimal market for asbestos products in these countries. (107155)

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CIS 07-1123 Do pesticides cause childhood cancer?. Nasterlack M., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.79, No.7, p.536-544. 32 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.springerlink.com/content/947m8h641366713r/fulltext.pdf

Various epidemiological studies have reported associations between childhood cancer and either parental or child exposure to pesticides. Reviews published in 1997 and 1998 found evidence to be suggestive but not conclusive. This literature search was conducted to identify and evaluate new research results on this topic issued between 1998 and 2004. Eighteen new studies were identified for this review. Collectively, the studies suggest an increase in the risk of different cancer types associated with exposure to pesticides. However, the evidence is conflicting with regard to cancer types as well as to causative factors across studies. The available literature does not allow firm conclusions to be drawn with regard to pesticides and any type of childhood cancer. (107161)

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CIS 07-1124 Prevention of latex allergy among health care workers and in the general population: Latex protein content in devices commonly used in hospitals and general practice. Crippa M., Belleri L., Mistrello G., Tedoldi C., Alessio L., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.79, No.7, p.550-557. Illus. 33 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.springerlink.com/content/560q5h8222436708/fulltext.pdf

In this study, the latex protein content in devices commonly used in medical practice and in consumer products was investigated. Total allergenic potency was evaluated by a modified RAST-inhibition assay and a quantitative determination of single allergens by using a commercial ELISA kit. A high level of inhibition was found in medical devices, such as elastic bandage (81.57%), tourniquet (74.09%), Foley urinary catheter (68.35%), Penrose drainage (67.25%) and taping (39.6%), and in common devices, such as rubber inner-sole (84.20%), toy balloons (78.62%), latex mattress (74.27%), household rubber gloves (49.10%), working gloves (38.25%) and inflatable floating mattresses (32.10%). The study confirmed that many natural rubber items commonly used in the operating theatre, emergency room and other hospital departments can release substantial amounts of latex proteins. (107162)

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CIS 07-1125 Field survey on types of organic solvents used in enterprises of various sizes. Samoto H., Fukui Y., Ukai H., Okamoto S., Takada S., Ohashi F., Moriguchi J., Ezaki T., Ikeda M., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.79, No.7, p.558-567. Illus. 63 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.springerlink.com/content/d11850pk5148n149/fulltext.pdf

The objective of this study was to examine common types of solvent work and prevalent types of solvents used as a function of the size of the enterprise. Between April 2004 and March 2005, air samples were collected in 156 enterprises of various sizes in Kyoto, Japan, and analyzed for 47 solvents by flame-ionization detector-equipped gas-liquid chromatography. Degreasing (including cleaning and wiping) was the most common type of solvent work, followed by painting and printing, and toluene was the most frequently-detected solvent. Toluene was most common in printing, painting and adhesive bonding, whereas isopropyl alcohol was the leading solvent in cases of surface coating and degreasing. Use of methyl alcohol was also high. In contrast, use of hexane in adhesives was limited. Solvent concentrations were five times higher in enterprises with ≤50 employees as compared with enterprises with ≥501 employees. Other findings are discussed. (107163)

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CIS 07-1126 Lipid peroxidation in workers exposed to aluminium, gallium, indium, arsenic, and antimony in the optoelectronic industry. Liao Y.H., Hwang L.C., Kao J.S., Yiin S.J., Lin S.F., Lin C.H., Lin Y.C., Aw T.C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.48, No.8, p.789-793. 35 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to investigate whether exposure to aluminium, gallium, indium, arsenic, and antimony induces lipid peroxidation in humans. Blood and urine levels of 103 exposed electronic industry workers and 67 referents were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Malondialdehyde (MDA), the product of lipid peroxidation, was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The mean plasma MDA level of the exposed workers was significantly higher than that of the referents. The levels of MDA in the exposed workers were correlated significantly with the levels of urinary gallium and arsenic. (107165)

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CIS 07-1127 Exposure evaluation to airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in an Italian airport. Iavicoli I., Carelli G., Bergamaschi A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.48, No.8, p.815-822. 32 ref. (In English)

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The aim of this study was to evaluate occupational exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and biphenyl in an Italian airport. In winter 2005, 12 air samples were taken at 120L/min during 24h in three different areas of the airport. PAH levels were found to be generally low. In all investigated areas, the highest concentrations were found for naphthalene (130-13,050ng/m3), followed by 2-methylnaphthalene (64-28,500ng/m3), 1-methylnaphthalene (24-35,300ng/m3), and biphenyl (24-1610ng/m3). However, in some instances, the levels found for benzo[i+j+k]fluoranthenes and benzo[α]pyrene, two high-boiling PAHs, (54.2ng/m3 and 8.6ng/m3, respectively) are a cause of concern. (107166)

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CIS 07-1128 Risk assessment of chemicals in foundries: The International Chemical Toolkit pilot-project. Ribeiro M.G., Filho W.R.P., Journal of Hazardous Materials, Aug. 2006, Vol.136, No.3, p.432-437. Illus. 46 ref. (In English)

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A pilot project was launched in 2005 in Brazil to implement the International Chemical Control Toolkit in the foundry industry. During a series of visits to foundries, it was observed that occupational exposures to silica dust and metal fumes continue to occur, due to a lack of awareness of exposures in the work environment. This article discusses improvements obtained so far after introducing the Chemical Toolkit to the foundry industry, and presents the next phases of the project, which will involve quantitative evaluation, training, information of personnel and the development of new tools. (107170)

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CIS 07-1129 Cyclohexyl isocyanate: Documentation of maximum admissible values for occupational exposure. (Polish: Izocyjanian cykloheksylu: Dokumentacja proponowanych wartości dopuszczalnych wielkości narżenia zawodowego) Skowroń J., ed., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2005, Vol.46, No.4, p.71-82. 21 ref. (In Polish)

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Cyclohexyl isocyanate (CHI) is a colourless to pale yellow liquid. It is used as a chemical intermediate in the production of drugs, pesticides, amines, ureas and other carbamoyl compounds. The vapour phases of CHI are strongly irritating to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Typical symptoms include breathlessness, dry cough, difficulty in breathing and possibly coughing up blood. Like other isocyanates, CHI may cause skin and respiratory sensitization. Due to the similarity of CHI to other isocyanates, the Expert Group has established the value of 0.04 mg/m3 as a maximum exposure limit (MAC). The notations I (irritation) and A (sensitization) should also be included. (107205)

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CIS 07-1130 The effect of combined exposure to chemical and physical factors on the nervous system during aluminium production: A preliminary finding. (Polish: Skutki zdrowotne w układzie nerwowym łącznego narażenia na czynniki chemiczne i fizyczne podczas produkcji aluminium: Doniesienie wstępne) Sińczuk-Walczak H., Szymczak M., Aniołczyk H., Brzeźnicki S., Raźniewska G., Trzcinka-Ochocka M., Matczak W., Medycyna pracy, 2006, Vol.57, No.1, p.7-13. 28 ref. (In Polish)

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Medical examinations were carried out on 39 male workers exposed to aluminium dust, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and magnetic fields during aluminium production. Clinical symptoms, such as headache (46.2%), increased emotional irritability (66.7%), concentration difficulty (25.6%), insomnia (30.8%), hypersomnia (15.4%), and mood lability (10.3%) predominated among functional disorders of the nervous system in workers chronically exposed to chemical and physical factors. Objective neurological examinations did not reveal organic lesions in the central or peripheral nervous system. In EEG recordings classified as abnormal, paroxysmal changes were most common (20.5%). (107207)

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CIS 07-1131 Mortality from malignant neoplasms among workers of an asbestos processing plant in Poland: Results of prolonged observation. Wilczyńska U., Szymczak W., Szeszenia-Dąbrowska N., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2005, Vol.18, No.4, p.313-326. 45 ref. (In English)

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A study of cancer mortality among workers of an asbestos plant manufacturing asbestos yarn, cloth, cords, packings, stuffing, brake linings and asbestos-rubber sheets was launched in the 1980s. The present paper discusses the results of a follow-up to December 1999 of a cohort of 4497 workers employed at the plant in 1945-1980. Causes of death were analysed using standardized mortality ratio (SMR) calculated by the person-years method. The prolonged cohort tracing showed an increased risk of asbestos-related cancers. It concerned mainly workers hired by the plant between 1945 and 1955, when the working conditions were most strenuous. (107208)

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CIS 07-1132 How to use and dispose of asbestos in a safe manner. (Polish: Jak bezpiecznie użytkować i usuwać azbest) Snarska B., Prewencja i Rehabilitacja, 2005, No.3, p.12-19. Illus. (In Polish)

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Varieties of asbestos and asbestos products that can be found in Poland are listed and the classification of these products is explained. Methods of safe use and disposal of asbestos-containing products are discussed in detail and legal requirements are outlined. (107209)

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CIS 07-1133 Volatile organic compounds - A determination method. (Polish: Lotne związki organiczne - metoda oznaczania) Makhniashvili I., Kowalska J., Podstawy i Metody Oceny Środowiska Pracy, 2007, Vol.51, No.1, p.141-147. (In Polish)

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A method for the determination of volatile organic compounds in air is described. The method is based on adsorption of volatile organic compound vapours on activated carbon, desorption with 1% solution of methanol in carbon disulfide and analysis using gas chromatography and flame ionization detection (GC/FID). Details are given of the scope of the method, analytical procedure, reagents, solutions, measuring instruments and equipment used. (107212)

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CIS 07-1134 Exposure to pesticides and children health: Overview of current epidemiological evidence. Jurewicz J., Hanke W., European epi marker, Oct. 2006, Vol.10, No.4, p.1-5. 62 ref. (In English)

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This literature review examines epidemiological studies on the association between exposure to pesticides and reproductive disorders, childhood cancer, immunotoxicity, neurodevelopment and endocrine effects. Results indicate that some pesticides are associated with a wide range of reproductive disorders (low birth weight, small-for-gestational-age birth, preterm delivery, stillbirth). Several studies found a link between exposure to pesticides in general and the risk of leukaemia, brain tumours, neuroblastoma and lymphoma. There is also evidence of neurobehavioural effects, immunotoxicity and endocrine effects following pesticide exposure. Persons who are occupationally or environmentally exposed to pesticides should be made aware of the potential effects on their children. (107224)

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CIS 07-1135 Breathing right. Torres K., Occupational Hazards, Aug. 2006, p.30-33. Illus. (In English)

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Providing effective and appropriate respiratory protection for workers in a contaminated environment can save lives. Contents of this article on selection of respirators: choosing the right respirator; importance of training; qualitative and quantitative fit testing; life expectancy of cartridges; caring for respirators; health surveillance; rules to be followed for implementing a successful respiratory protection programme. (107150)

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CIS 07-1136 Fertility and exposure to solvents among families in the Agricultural Health Study. Sallmén M., Baird D.D., Hoppin J.A., Blair A., Sandler D.P., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2006, Vol.63, No.7, p.469-475. Illus. 32 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of solvent exposure on the fertility of couples where the male is a licensed pesticide applicator. The couples were enrolled in a cohort between 1993 and 1997. Exposure to solvents was assessed by means of questionnaires on work tasks. The study was limited to couples (wife aged less than 40 years) with an attempt at pregnancy in the last four years. Twenty eight per cent of the 2112 couples were defined as subfertile. Adjusted subfertility odds ratios (OR) for exposure to solvents were calculated with logistic regression. Female exposure (OR 1.42) and male exposure to solvents (OR 1.21 for monthly exposure and OR 1.40 for daily or weekly exposure) were associated with subfertility. To account for potential dual exposure, variables for parental exposure (either parent exposed or both parents exposed) were also defined. Both were strongly associated with subfertility (OR 1.62 and OR 2.10, respectively). (107064)

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CIS 07-1137 Computer-based tool - Manage your chemical hazards with LARA-BTP. (French: Outil logiciel - Maîtrisez vos risques chimiques avec LARA-BTP) Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.10-11. Illus. (In French)

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This article describes a computer application for evaluating chemical hazards related to the use of products in the building industry, taking into account the regulatory requirements defined in decree 2003-1254 of 23 December 2003 and providing guidance on safe working methods. The user is required to input the data on the product label and specify the conditions of use, after which the application will provide relevant guidance, hazard evaluations and action plans. (107004)

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CIS 07-1138 Reduction of post-shift traffic injuries among gasoline station workers: Are they related to the reduction of occupational gasoline vapor exposure?. Chiang W.K., Chan C.C., Tseng C.T., Wang J.D., Accident Analysis and Prevention, Sep. 2005, Vol.37, No.5, p.956-961. Illus. 20 ref. (In English)

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Solvent exposures are known to impair psychomotor performances. This study investigated after-shift commuting injuries among gasoline station workers in Taiwan following the installation of gasoline vapour recovery devices (GVRDs). Data on post-shift commuting accidents were obtained from occupational injury registry data in a gasoline refining and retailing company in Taiwan employing 20,000 workers. The cumulative injury rate (CIR) was calculated to estimate lifetime risk. Workers of gasoline sales were compared with those without gasoline exposure and the relative risk (RR) was calculated. The CIR was reduced by a factor of 3.14 during 1997-2000 for post-shift commuting accidents compared with 1991-1992. The RRs of post-shift commuting accidents in the exposed group significantly decreased from 2.15 to 0.53. This improvement may be related to the reduction in exposure to solvents. (107028)

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CIS 07-1139 Cross shift changes in lung function among bar and restaurant workers before and after implementation of a smoking ban. Skogstad M., Kjærheim K., Fladseth G., Gjølstad M., Daae H.L., Olsen R., Molander P., Ellingsen D.G., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2006, Vol.63, No.7, p.482-487. Illus. 36 ref. (In English)

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To study the effects of a smoking ban on the pulmonary function of bar and restaurant employees, 93 subjects employed in 13 different establishments in Oslo, Norway were examined at the beginning and end of a workshift, before and after the smoking ban. The mean levels of nicotine and total dust before the ban were 28g/m3 and 275µg/m3, respectively, while the corresponding levels after the ban were 0.6µg/m3 and 77µg/m3. Assessment of lung function included dynamic lung volumes and flows. The cross shift reduction in forced vital capacity (FVC) changed from 81ml before to 52ml after the smoking ban. The reductions in forced expired volume in one second (FEV1) during a workshift before and after the ban were 89ml and 46ml, respectively. The reduction in forced mid-expiratory flow rate (FEF25-75%) changed significantly from 199ml/s to 64ml/s. Among 26 non-smokers and 11 asthmatics, the reduction in FEV1 and FEF25-75% was significantly larger before compared to after the smoking ban. There was an association between the dust concentration and decrease in FEF 25-75% before the ban among non-smokers. (107066)

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CIS 07-1140 Elimination of asbestos-related diseases. (French: Elimination des maladies liées à l'amiante; Spanish: Eliminación de las enfermedades relacionadas con el amianto) World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service,1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2006. 4p. 17 ref. (In English, French, Spanish)

Internet:
http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/2006/WHO_SDE_OEH_06.03_eng.pdf

http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/2006/WHO_SDE_OEH_06.03_spa.pdf

http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/2006/WHO_SDE_OEH_06.03_fre.pdf

This leaflet reviews the adverse health effects of exposure to asbestos and makes recommendations for the prevention of asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos is one of the most important occupational carcinogens, causing half of the deaths from occupational cancer worldwide. The WHO believes that the most efficient way to eliminate asbestos-related diseases is to stop using all types of asbestos. The organization is committed to working with countries to provide information on asbestos-replacement solutions, to take measures to prevent exposure during asbestos-removal operations and to improve early diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of asbestos-related diseases. (107079)

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CIS 07-1141 IARC monographs on the evaluation of carcinogenic risks to humans - Formaldehyde, 2-butoxyethanol, and 1-tert-butoxypropan-2-ol. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2006. v, 478p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: USD 40.00., ISBN 92-832-1288-6 (In English)

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This volume re-evaluates the available evidence on the carcinogenic potential of formaldehyde, a substance that is widely used in binders for wood, paper; glass wool and rock wool, in plastics and coatings, textile finishing and chemical synthesis, and as a disinfectant and preservative. Also evaluated are two glycol ethers, 2-butoxyethanol and 1-tert-butoxypropan-2-ol, which are widely used as solvents in paints and paint thinners, coatings, glass and surface cleaners, inks, adhesives, personal-care products, and as chemical intermediates. Summary of final evaluations: formaldehyde is classified in Group 1 (carcinogenic to humans); 2-butoxyetahnol and 1-tert-butoxypropan-2-ol are classified in Group 3 (cannot be classified as to carcinogenicity to humans). (107083)

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CIS 07-1142 Management of poisoning - A handbook for healthcare workers. Henry J.A., Wiseman H.M., International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1997. xiv, 314p. Illus. Index. Price: CHF 102.00 (CHF 71.40 in developing countries)., ISBN 92-4-154481-3 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.who.int/ipcs/publications/training_poisons/management_of_poisoning/en
   …/print.html

This handbook provides information for persons living in rural places, far from medical help, on what to do in cases of poisoning and suggests ways of preventing poisoning in the community. The handbook is for use as a practical reference book in an emergency and may also be used in teaching practical skills to community health and first-aid workers. Part 1 provides general information on how poisoning happens, how it can be prevented and first aid measures. Part 2 covers the signs and symptoms of poisoning by specific pesticides, chemical products used in the home and workplace, medicines, plants and natural toxins together with appropriate treatment. (107084)

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CIS 07-1143 Transportation of liquid bulk chemicals by tankers in the Baltic Sea. Hänninen S., Rytkönen J., VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, VTT Information Service, P.O.Box 2000, 02044 VTT, Finland, 2006. 121p. Illus. Bibl. ref., ISBN 951-38-6702-1 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.vtt.fi/inf/pdf/publications/2006/P595.pdf

This report analyses data concerning the handling of liquid bulk chemicals in the Baltic Sea ports in 2004. The data is based on public registers, data files and declarations of port authorities and operators. A special questionnaire on transported chemicals, and specifically on bulk chemicals, was prepared for ports. Some of the most dangerous or most common chemicals are discussed in terms of their environmental impact if released into the water (ammonia, epichlorohydrin, soybean oil, styrene, vinyl acetate, ethanol, and methanol). The risk of chemical outflow is also discussed in cases of collision and grounding. A special chapter related to the Northern Baltic waters covers the risk of winter navigation for chemical transportation. The fates of chemicals spilled on water and on the methods for their neutralization are also discussed. Finally, some scenarios are presented on potentially high-risk areas. (107076)

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CIS 07-1144 Smoking policy. (Dutch: Het rookbeleid in de pratijk; French: Politique en matière de tabac) Toubeau E., Everaet K., Franquinet A., Prevent, rue Gachard 88/4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, [ca 2005]. 26p. Illus. 28 ref., ISBN 2-87112-103-6 (fr), ISBN 9-07090-290-7 (nl) (In Dutch, French)

Internet:


According to the provisions of the Belgian Royal Decree of 19 January 2005 on protection against tobacco smoke, employees have a right to work in smoke-free premises. The Decree sets the legal framework for employers to define a policy in this respect. This document provides guidance for developing, implementing and improving the smoking policy. The first part covers the issue of smoking and underscores the need for a smoking policy, with reference to the new legislation. The second part helps employers define a consistent and effective smoking policy with the help of a step-by-step plan. Appendices include an example of the commitment made by an enterprise, an example of the implementation of a smoking policy, statistics on the consequences of smoking and the full text of the Royal Decree. An information leaflet for workers is included. (107135)

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CIS 07-1145 Safety in the use of mineral and synthetic fibres. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2002. xiv, 122p. Bibl.ref. (In Arabic)

Internet:

Arabic translation of the working document and report of the Meeting of Experts on Safety in the Use of Mineral and Synthetic Fibres, held in Geneva (Switzerland), 17-25 Apr. 1989 (see CIS 90-1646). The fibres discussed are: man-made mineral fibres (continuous filament, insulation wool, refractory fibres, special-purpose fibres); natural mineral fibres (other than asbestos); and synthetic organic fibres. The characteristics, manufacturing methods, occupational and non-occupational exposure of each type are reviewed. Information on health effects (irritation, respiratory symptoms, fibrosis, cancer) is also reviewed. Other topics: monitoring of airborne dust; preventive and control measures; law and practice in selected countries. In annexes: ILO resolution (1986) concerning health risks of occupational exposure to fibres; report of the meeting; list of participants. (107177)

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CIS 07-1146 Safety in the use of mineral and synthetic fibres. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2002. 122p. Bibl.ref. (In Arabic)

Internet:

Arabic translation of the working document and report of the Meeting of Experts on Safety in the Use of Mineral and Synthetic Fibres, held in Geneva (Switzerland), 17-25 Apr. 1989 (see CIS 90-1646). The fibres discussed are: 1. man-made mineral fibres (MMMF): continuous filament (glass), insulation wool (glasswool, rockwool, slag wool), refractory fibres (ceramic and others), special-purpose fibres (glass microfibres); 2. natural mineral fibres (other than asbestos): erionite, attapulgite, wollastonite, etc.; 3. synthetic organic fibres (aramid fibres, carbon and graphite fibres, polyolefin fibres, etc.). The characteristics, manufacturing methods, occupational and non-occupational exposure of each type are reviewed. Information on health effects (irritation, respiratory symptoms, fibrosis, cancer) is also reviewed. Other topics: monitoring of airborne dust; preventive and control measures; law and practice in selected countries. In annexes: ILO resolution (1986) concerning health risks of occupational exposure to fibres; report of the meeting; list of participants. (107194)

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CIS 07-1147 Determination of exposure to wood dust. (French: Détermination de l'exposition aux poussières de bois) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Jan. 2006. Internet document. Illus. 21 ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/D89D4910B7C1AE87
   …C1256F19004E4108/$FILE/print.html

This Internet document reviews the sampling methods used for evaluating occupational exposure to wood dust, following the more stringent threshold limit value introduced in France in December 2003. It presents the most widely-used methods (including those in other European countries) and makes several recommendations on the selection and use of these methods. (107037)

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CIS 07-1148 Prevention guide - Formaldehyde in the workplace. (French: Guide de prévention - Le formaldéhyde en milieu de travail) Goyer N., Bégin D., Beaudry C., Bouchard M., Carrier G., Lavoué J., Noisel N., Gérin M., 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. 51p. 55 ref. Price: CAD 21.20. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-064-7 (fr), ISBN 978-2-89631-068-5 (En) (In French)

Internet:
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/RG-473.pdf

http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/RG-471.pdf

For three years, the IRSST carried out a study to evaluate the economic and health effects of lowering the permissible exposure value for formaldehyde in Quebec. The aim of this guide and collection of safety data sheets is to bring together all the safety and health aspects related to formaldehyde. Contents: general information on formaldehyde; health effects and first aid; regulations; exposure measurement; control of exposure; recommendations for specific sectors of the economy. (107140)

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CIS 07-1149 Vinyl chloride - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1999. 28p. 16 ref., ISBN 92-4-151109-5 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.inchem.org/documents/hsg/hsg/hsg109.htm

This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 215 (see CIS 01-165). Contents: identity and uses of vinyl chloride; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; summary of chemical safety information for use in the workplace; current regulations and guidelines. Vinyl is mutagenic and carcinogenic in humans. It causes irritation, redness and pain on contact with the eyes and contact of the compressed liquid with the skin causes frostbite. Inhalation can cause dizziness and unconsciousness. (107221)

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CIS 07-1150 Respiratory protective equipment. (French: Appareils de protection respiratoire; German: Atemschutzgeräte) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, May 1964. 33p. Illus. (In English, French, German)

Internet:



This information note describes the types of hazards which require workers to wear respiratory protection - oxygen deficiency, gaseous and particulate contaminants. Different types of respirators are described along with their limitations, precautions in their use and inspection and maintenance requirements. (107239)

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CIS 07-1151 Sheep dipping: Advice for farmers and others involved in dipping sheep. (Welsh: Trochi defaid: Cyngor i ffermwyr ac eraill sy'n ymwneud â throchi defaid) Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 3rd ed., July 2007. 16p. Illus. 6 ref. (In English, Welsh)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/welsh/as29.pdf

http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/as29.pdf

Topics covered in this brochure on health protection during sheep dipping: procedure for risk assessment required by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH, see CIS 03-1023); choice of treatment; design of dip facilities; engineering controls; personal protective equipment; good working practice; disposal of harmful waste; health surveillance. Update of document abstracted under CIS 98-1424. (107196)

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CIS 07-1152 Veterinary medicines - Safe use by farmers and other animal handlers. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, rev. ed., July 2007. 12p. 9 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/as31.pdf

This leaflet provides guidance for farmers and other people who use veterinary medicines (including medicated feeds) as part of their work. It sets out practical steps for the protection of workers' health and safety and for compliance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH, see CIS 03-1023). Update of document abstracted under CIS 98-1425. (107197)

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CIS 07-1153 Safety in the use of synthetic vitreous fibre insulation wools (glass wool, rock wool, slag wool). (Russian: Bezopasnost' pri ispol'zovanii sintetičeskih steklovidnyh volokon v kačestve izoljacionnogo materiala (steklovata, kamnevata, šlakovata)) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. 45p. (Arabic version); 2002. 59p. (Korean version); 2001, 101p. (Russian version)., ISBN 5-89513-010-0 (Ru) (In Arabic, Korean, Russian)

Internet:



Arabic, Korean and Russian translations of the document analysed under CIS 02-376. The use of synthetic fibre insulation wools in construction is increasingly widespread. This ILO code of practice sets out the general duties of manufacturers, suppliers, specifiers, employers, workers and competent authorities, all of whom have a role to play in maintaining the safety of the entire life cycle of the process, from production to waste management and disposal. The code covers preventive and protective measures, information, education and training, and surveillance of the working environment and workers' health. It addresses the hazards arising from the product (insulation fibres, binders and other materials) in real-life situations, and contains useful appendices on classification systems, exposure data and risk assessment. (107193)

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[ Top of page ]

006 Fires, explosions and major hazards

CIS 07-1154 Application of land-use planning criteria for the control of major accident hazards: A case-study. Cozzani V., Bandini R., Basta C., Christou M.D., Journal of Hazardous Materials, Aug. 2006, Vol.136, No.2, p.170-180. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)

Internet:

Land-use planning (LUP) with respect to major accident hazards is one of the more important requirements of Directive 96/82/EC (see CIS 97-1079). Different approaches were developed by the Member States of the European Union in order to implement this aspect of the Directive. This study consists of a comparison of these approaches developed for LUP with respect to major accidents hazards. An Italian industrial area was selected to perform a case study. The different LUP criteria were used both to evaluate the present state of the area and the effect of several proposed hazard reduction actions. Critical steps in the application of the different LUP criteria are identified, and the different priorities of hazard reduction actions resulting from risk-based and consequence-based approaches are highlighted. (107169)

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CIS 07-1155 Fire safety of fuel stations. (Polish: Bezpieczeństwo pożarowe baz paliw) Praczyk Z., Ochrona Przeciwpożarowa, 2006, No.1, p.15-18. 6 ref. (In Polish)

Internet:

The most important risks and causes of fire in fuel stations are listed and technical requirements to be met in liquid fuel stations and bases are discussed. Legal requirements in this area are also described. (107206)

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CIS 07-1156 Fire or explosion hazards. (Dutch: Risico's van brand of explosie; French: Risques d'incendie ou d'explosion) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 140p. Illus. 21 ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3884

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3884

The objective of the SOBANE approach (screening, observation, analysis and evaluation) is to ensure occupational safety and health by means of a systematic analysis of occupational hazards. This booklet presents the SOBANE approach applied to fire and explosion hazards. Following a review of general aspects of occupational safety and health management, it explains how to proceed with the observation, analysis and evaluation, together with the qualifications required for carrying out these steps. The following topics are summarized on information sheets: descriptions of work situations; layout of premises; storage of flammable and explosive substances; signalling; fire extinguishers; information and training of personnel; organization of fire fighting services. (107123)

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CIS 07-1157 Gas safety in catering and hospitality. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, rev.ed., 2007. 12p. 10 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/cais23.pdf

This information sheet is aimed at catering and hotel businesses and contains guidance on safety during the installation, use and maintenance of gas-fired equipment used for cooking. Contents: responsibilities of landlords, catering business owners and gas appliance installers; United Kingdom regulations and standards applicable to new and existing installations; ventilation; mobile equipment and mobile catering; carbon monoxide alarms; blowtorches. Replaces CIS 03-1855. (107185)

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[ Top of page ]

007 Electrical safety

CIS 07-1158 Electricity - Temporary installations, yet safe. (French: Electricité - Des installations provisoires mais sécurisées) Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.28-29. Illus. (In French)

Internet:

Temporary electrical installations on construction sites in France are required to comply with the relevant regulations, which, in general, are similar to those that apply to permanent installations. This article presents electrical diagrams for connecting the temporary installation to the network and for the necessary protection systems. (107005)

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CIS 07-1159 Electrical accidents. (French: Accidents d'origine électrique) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, June 2007. Internet document. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/13E8DE2940F5B024
   …C1256D4A00318376/$FILE/print.html

Even though there have been improvements in the management of electrical hazards at the place of work, accidents still occur. This Internet document presents statistical trends showing the decline in the number of accidents in France between 1975 and 2002, including data on the sector of activity and the accident agency. The information resources developed by INRS on electrical safety are listed. (107036)

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CIS 07-1160 Electrical hazards. (Dutch: Elektriciteit; French: Risques électriques) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 84p. Illus. 25 ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=5936

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=5098

The objective of the SOBANE approach (screening, observation, analysis and evaluation) is to ensure occupational safety and health by means of a systematic analysis of occupational hazards. This booklet presents the SOBANE approach applied to electrical hazards. Following a review of general aspects of occupational safety and health management, it explains how to proceed with the observation, analysis and evaluation, together with the qualifications required for carrying out these steps. The main aspects of the following topics are summarized on information sheets: basic principles of electricity; circuit breakers; electrical hazards (electrocution, fire); static electricity; charging of batteries; Belgian and European regulations. (107126)

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[ Top of page ]

008 Physical hazards

CIS 07-1161 Current approaches to the study of vibrations and Royal Decree 1311/2005. (Spanish: El enfoque actual en el estudio de las vibraciones y Real Decreto 1311/2005) Lavín Ortiz N., Ruperez Calvo M.J., Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo, Dec. 2006, No.40, p.16-22. Illus. (In Spanish)

Internet:

Royal Decree 1311/2005 transposes into Spanish legislation Directive 2002/44/EC on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding workers' exposure to the risks arising from physical agents (vibration) (CIS 02-24). This article explains the approach adopted in other countries with respect to the study of vibrations and the prevention of exposure to vibrations. It also constitutes the basis for an analysis of the situation to be carried out by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Hygiene (INSHT) as part of its legal mandate. (107014)

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CIS 07-1162 Hearing protection use in industry: The role of risk perception. Arezes P.M., Miguel A.S., Safety Science, Apr. 2005, Vol.43, No.4, p.253-267. Illus. 23 ref. (In English)

Internet:

The objective of this study was to analyse the associations between individual risk perception factors of noise exposure and the use of hearing protection devices. It involved a sample of 434 industrial workers exposed to noise levels greater than the action level defined in Portuguese legislation (85dB(A)). Data on workers' risk perception of noise exposure and their use of hearing protection were obtained by means of a questionnaire. Multivariate analysis revealed that risk perception plays a significant role as a predictor of workers' behaviour with respect to the use of hearing protection devices. Results suggest that risk perception should be considered as an essential issue in the design and implementation of hearing conservation programmes. (107022)

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CIS 07-1163 Hand-arm vibration exposure of dentists. Rytkönen E., Sorainen E., Leino-Arjas P., Solovieva S., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, June 2006, Vol.79, No.6, p.521-527. Illus. 19 ref. (In English)

Internet:

The vibration of 22 dental handpieces was measured with an accelerometer during normal work. The weighted vibration and the total acceleration of high frequency vibration in the frequency range of 1.6-10kHz were analysed. Non-contact vibrations were also measured during idling with a portable digital vibrometer, and the findings compared with those of the accelerometer. A group of 295 female dentists aged 45-63 years responded to a questionnaire on working conditions, lifestyle, and state of health. It was found that the daily vibration exposure of dentists was below the exposure action value of the Vibration Directive of European Union (CIS 02-24). However a long work history in dental filling and root treatment as well as high body mass index seem to be associated with frequent finger symptoms perceived as vibration-related by the dentists. (107057)

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CIS 07-1164 Development of noise spectrum based maintenance guideline for reduction of earth moving machinery noise. Vardhan H., Adhikari G.R., Noise Control Engineering Journal, July-Aug. 2006, Vol.54, No.4, p.236-244. Illus. 13 ref. (In English)

Internet:

Heavy earth moving machinery (HEMM) is one of the most important sources of noise in open-pit mines. Several studies carried out earlier indicate that noise produced by HEMM can be reduced by proper maintenance. To reduce the overall noise produced by HEMM, it is important to identify the components contributing most to the noise. Maintenance of those components can then be carried out rigorously to reduce the noise. This article presents a maintenance guideline for reduction of HEMM noise based on sound level emission measurements and noise spectrum studies of dumpers, dozers and loaders under various operating conditions. (107058)

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CIS 07-1165 Tooth abrasion in workers exposed to noise in the Montenegrin textile industry. Kovacevic M., Belojevic G., Industrial Health, July 2006, Vol.44, No.3, p.481-485. 16 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.jniosh.go.jp/old/niih/en/indu_hel/2006/pdf/indhealth_44_3_481.pdf

This case-control study was carried out to test the hypothesis of a relationship between exposure to intense industrial noise and tooth abrasion. It involved 225 workers of a textile company in Montenegro. The group exposed to intense noise (104dB(A) Leq) consisted of 111 weavers (82 men and 29 women), while the control group consisted of 114 workers (32 men and 82 women) exposed to lower levels of noise (81dB(A) Leq). A specialist in dental prosthetics clinically examined all the subjects. Gender, age, socioeconomic status and tooth brushing habits of workers were controlled as confounding factors. Significantly high adjusted odds ratio for tooth abrasion were found for workers exposed to intense noise in comparison to the control group, 3.74 and 5.48 respectively for women and men. (107092)

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CIS 07-1166 Noise and vibration. Haataja I., ed., Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, July 2006, Vol.13, No.2, p.31-51 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl. ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.ttl.fi/NR/rdonlyres/AF130282-A0AB-4439-8E3C-AFF55CDEF59F/0/AsianPacif
   …ic_Nwesletter22006.pdf

Special issue of the journal devoted mostly to noise and vibration problems in an occupational setting in the Asia-Pacific region. Articles cover: Noise-induced hearing loss and compliance with the hearing conservation programme in Malaysia (Ismail N.H., Elias A.); Communication and noise (Airo E.); Mechanization, vibration and the Indian workforce (Mandal B.B., Srivastava A.K.); Building a safety culture at workplaces for Vietnamese workers (Le V.T.); ICOH 2006 (a general report by Lehtinen S. and an overview on sessions dealing with noise by Starck J.); Bhopal revisited - the tragedy of lessons ignored (Rice A.); The Bhopal disaster in 1984 - working conditions and the role of trade unions (Eckerman I.); The Work Plan of the Global Network of WHO Collaborating Centres in Occupational Health (Lehtinen S.). (107093)

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CIS 07-1167 Vibration exposure and myocardial infarction incidence: The VHEEP case-control study. Björ B., Burström L., Nilsson T., Reuterwall C., Occupational Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.56, p.338-344. 32 ref. (In English)

Internet:

The objective of this study was to assess the risk of contracting a first episode of myocardial infarction (MI) subsequent to vibration exposure and to assess a possible exposure-response relationship. The Vasternorrland heart epidemiology programme (VHEEP) was the source of the data. VHEEP is a population-based case-control study of risk factors for acute MI. Exposure information was collected by questionnaire and vibration exposure was assessed in 218 cases and 257 controls. Relative risks were estimated using odds ratios (ORs) from binary logistic regression. The results show that the OR of acute MI when exposed to vibration was 1.6. It was not possible, however, to determine whether an exposure-response relationship was present. (107142)

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CIS 07-1168 Noise exposures aboard catcher/processor fishing vessels. Neitzel R.L., Berna B.E., Seixas N.S., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.49, p.624-633. Illus. 29 ref. (In English)

Internet:

Commercial fishing workers have extended work shifts and potential for 24h exposures to high noise. Noise exposures aboard two large fish catching and processing vessels were assessed using dosimetry and sound-level mapping, together with self-reports of work tasks and hearing protection device (HPD) use. These data were combined to estimate work shift, non-work, and 24h overall exposure levels. The length of time during which HPDs were worn was also used to calculate the effective protection received by crew members. Nearly all workers had work shift and 24h noise levels that exceeded current limits. After HPD use was accounted for, half of the 24h exposures remained above the limits. Non-work-shift noise contributed nothing to 24h exposure levels. HPDs reduced the average exposure by about 10dBA, but not all workers wore them consistently. (107145)

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CIS 07-1169 Low-frequency noise disturbance in mental work - Tests under laboratory conditions. (Polish: Uciążliwość hałasu niskoczęstotliwościowego podczas wykonywania prac wymagających koncentracji uwagi - badania w warunkach laboratoryjnych) Kaczmarska A., Łuczak A., Sobolewski A., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, 2006, No.6, p.11-15. Illus. 10 ref. (In Polish)

Internet:

Low-frequency noise (including infrasound noise) is a harmful and annoying factor in working and living environments. There are currently no criteria concerning the annoyance of low-frequency and infrasound noise in the workplace. Effects are particularly noticeable during concentrated mental work. This article presents the results of an analysis of annoyance produced by low-frequency noise at workstations where high levels of attention or concentration are required. Laboratory tests were carried out at a model workstation. Over 50% of people tested had problems with concentration when exposed to low-frequency noise. (107211)

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CIS 07-1170 Occupational exposure to ionizing radiation and electromagnetic fields in relation to the risk of thyroid cancer in Sweden. Lope V., Pérez-Gómez B., Aragonés N., López-Abente G., Gustavsson P., Floderus B., Dosemeci M., Silva A., Pollán M., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.32, No.4, p.276-284. 45 ref. (In English)

Internet:

This study evaluated the risk of thyroid cancer in relation to occupational exposure to ionizing radiation and extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELFMF) in a cohort of close to three million Swedish workers. The cohort was followed up from 1971 through 1989. Exposures to ELFMF and ionizing radiation were assessed using job exposure matrices. Relative risks (RR), adjusted for age and geographic area, were computed using Poisson models. Occupational ELFMF exposure showed no effect on the risk of thyroid cancer. However, women exposed to high intensities of ionizing radiation registered a marked excess risk (RR 1.85). This trend was not in evidence among men. (107095)

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CIS 07-1171 Method of investigation and assessment of electromagnetic hazards in offices. (Polish: Metoda badania i oceny zagrożeń elektromagnetycznych w pomieszczeniach biurowych) Gryz K., Karpowicz J., Jankowska E., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, 2007, No.2, p.11-15. Illus. 15 ref. (In Polish)

Internet:

Typical electromagnetic field sources and characteristics of workers' exposure conditions are described and the principles of occupational and non-occupational exposure limitation established by Polish and European legislation are outlined. Requirements regarding electromagnetic field measurements in offices and the principles of interpreting such results are examined and situations justifying decisions not to perform electromagnetic field measurements in office buildings are analysed. (107214)

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CIS 07-1172 The management of heat stress for firefighters: A review of work conducted on behalf of the Toronto fire service. McLellan T.M., Selkirk G.A., Industrial Health, July 2006, Vol.44, No.3, p.414-426. Illus. 67 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.jniosh.go.jp/old/niih/en/indu_hel/2006/pdf/indhealth_44_3_414.pdf

This article summarizes research projects aimed at defining safe work limits for firefighters wearing protective clothing and working in warm environments. It examines strategies for reducing the thermal burden and extending operational effectiveness. Subjects wore their protective ensemble and carried their self-contained breathing apparatus and performed very light, light, moderate or heavy work at 25°C, 30°C and 35°C. Predicted continuous work times were then generated using a heat strain model that established limits for increases in body temperature to 38.0°C, 38.5°C and 39.0°C. The study revealed that replacing the duty uniform pants with shorts reduced the thermal strain for activities that lasted longer than 60 min. Adequate fluid replacement and forearm and hand immersion, increased exposure time (and work productivity) by 100%. (107091)

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CIS 07-1173 Objective neuropsychological test performance of professional divers reporting a subjective complaint of "forgetfulness or loss of concentration". Taylor C.L., Macdiarmid J.I., Ross J.A.S., Osman L.M., Watt S.J., Adie W., Crawford J.R., Lawson A., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.32, No.4, p.310-317. 40 ref. (In English)

Internet:

This case-control study attempted to determine whether the higher prevalence of reported "forgetfulness or loss of concentration" (FLC) among professional divers can be confirmed using objective neuropsychological tests. The neuropsychological test performance of divers complaining of moderate or severe FLC was compared with two age-matched control groups reporting no or slight FLC, divers and non-divers. Altogether 102 divers with FLC, 100 divers without FLC and 100 non-divers without FLC completed the study. Data were subjected to statistical analyses. The overall neuropsychological performance differed significantly between the groups. Verbal memory (logical memory and the California verbal learning test), current intelligence (Wechsler abbreviated scale of intelligence), and sustained attention (rapid visual processing) were poorer among the divers with FLC than among the divers or non-divers without FLC. Other findings are discussed. (107097)

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CIS 07-1174 Evaluation of whole-body vibration exposures in British industry. Toward M.G.R., Gunston T.P., Griffin M.J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. viii, 79p. Illus. 2 ref. Price: GBP 25.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-6155-5 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr377.pdf

This study involved the measurements of whole-body vibration on eight excavators and two compact skid-steer loaders. Of the excavators, four were fitted with impact hammers, two with hydraulic crushers, one with a backhoe shovel and one with steel shears. Accelerations were measured on the seat surface and on the floor within the operators' cabs of the machines in accordance with the ISO 2631 (1997) standard. The data have been evaluated in the context of the levels set out in the European Union Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive (2002/44/EC). The report provides predicted daily vibration exposure for each machine. The effects of machine operation and other parameters on the vibration exposures are also considered. (107088)

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CIS 07-1175 Entering tanks and other enclosed spaces. (French: Entrée dans les réservoirs et autres espaces clos; German: Einsteigen in Behälter und andere geschlossene Räume) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, May 1962. 13p. Illus. (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes the hazards which may be encountered when workers enter a tank or other enclosed space and provides guidance on fundamental precautions and procedures for the prevention of accidents. (107236)

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CIS 07-1176 Maximum acceptable levels for industrial noise. (French: Limites acceptables des bruits industriels; German: Annehmbare Lärmschwellen in der Industrie) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Dec. 1961. 4p. Illus. 1 ref. (In English, French, German)

Internet:



This information note provides a comparison of permissible noise levels in France and other countries and presents a maximum acceptable noise level curve for an 8-hour exposure proposed by the Technical Committee for the Study of Noise appointed by the French Ministry of Public Health. (107234)

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CIS 07-1177 Noise in industry. (French: Le bruit dans l'industrie; German: Das Lärmproblem am Arbeitsplatz) Bell A., International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Mar. 1968. 56p. Illus. 159 ref. (In English, French, German)

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This information sheet describes the health hazards associated with industrial noise and proposes measures for noise control and hearing conservation. Contents: effects of noise on hearing, communication and behaviour; occupational deafness; hearing conservation programmes; measurement and engineering control of noise; personal protection devices; audiometry; assessment of disability; damage-risk criteria; legal aspects and compensation for noise-induced hearing loss. (107247)

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CIS 07-1178 Working in hot environments. (Spanish: Trabajando en ambientes muy calurosos) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, 2007. iii, 12p. 4 ref. (In Spanish)

Internet:
http://www.cdc.gov/spanish/niosh/docs/pdfs/86-112sp.pdf

Spanish translation of the booklet indexed under CIS 86-1263. It provides an overview of the health hazards associated with hot workplaces and alerts employers and workers them to the precautions that should be taken to prevent injuries and other health problems due to heat stress. (107174)

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CIS 07-1179 Electromagnetic fields - Visual display screens. (French: Champs électromagnétiques - Les écrans de visualisation) Bisseriex C., et al., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Sep. 2006. 4p. Illus. 5 ref. Price: EUR 1.50. Downloadable version free of charge. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/CC7DA2B69EE0CCD4
   …C125721200322A56/$FILE/ed4208.pdf

Cathode ray tubes (CRTs) emit electromagnetic fields of very weak intensity and are themselves particularly vulnerable to fields from other emission sources, as may be observed by distortions or flicker of the display. They are giving way to flat screens, which emit less radiation and are less sensitive to external radiation. This information sheet outlines the principles of operation of CRT displays and flat screens and sets out the levels of electromagnetic radiation emitted, the interference caused by nearby electromagnetic fields and measures to improve screen performance. (107010)

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CIS 07-1180 Applying radiation safety standards in diagnostic radiology and interventional procedures using X rays. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wagramerstrasse 5, P.O. Box 100, 1400 Wien, Austria, 2006. 96p. Illus. 51 ref. Price: EUR 28.00., ISBN 92-0-111004-9 (In English)

Internet:
http://www-pub.iaea.org/MTCD/publications/PDF/Pub1206_web.pdf

This report provides guidance to regulators and users of radiation sources in diagnostic radiology and interventional procedures involving X rays in applying the International Basic Safety Standards for Protection against Ionizing Radiation and for the Safety of Radiation Sources (BSS, see CIS 96-1472). Contents: principal requirements; safety of X ray equipment and facilities; occupational exposure; medical exposure: public exposure. Appendices include guidelines for safety programmes, training, protection facilities, protective clothing and reducing patient exposure. (107081)

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CIS 07-1181 Radiation protection in the design of radiotherapy facilities. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wagramerstrasse 5, P.O. Box 100, 1400 Wien, Austria, 2006. 129p. Illus. 47 ref. Price: EUR 29.00. Downloadable version free of charge, ISBN 92-0-100505-9 (In English)

Internet:
http://www-pub.iaea.org/MTCD/publications/PDF/Pub1223_web.pdf

This report provides practical guidance regarding the design and shielding of radiotherapy facilities. Methods for determining the necessary structural shielding for both external beam units and brachytherapy are described. Data used for determining the structural shielding necessary for radiotherapy facilities are reproduced and example calculations are provided for each type of facility. In addition, specific design features that could be incorporated into radiotherapy facilities are discussed, including those related to the security of radioactive sources. This report is intended to be used primarily by radiological physicists in the planning and design of new radiotherapy facilities and in the remodelling of existing facilities. (107082)

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CIS 07-1182 Ventilation of kitchens in catering establishments. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, rev.ed., 2007. 4p. 5 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/cais10.pdf

This information note provides guidance on ventilation requirements for kitchens. Contents: objectives of an adequate ventilation system; compliance with gas safety regulations; features of an effective kitchen ventilation system; installation of new ventilation systems. Replaces CIS 98-916. (107184)

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[ Top of page ]

009 Mechanical hazards, transport

CIS 07-1183 Machinery Directive: The main changes. (French: Directive machines: les principaux changements) Coune I., Face au risque, Feb. 2007, No.430, p.10-12. Illus. (In French)

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The new Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC replaces the earlier Directive 98/37/EC (see CIS 99-29). This article comments on the main changes introduced by the new Directive, which involve, in particular, clarifications of the scope, a simplified procedure for evaluating the conformity of the machine with European standards, more detailed safety requirements and the consideration of electrical hazards. (107113)

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CIS 07-1184 Elevating trucks - Adhering to good principles. (French: Chariot élévateur - Une bonne conduite à tenir) Richard A.M., Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.30-31. Illus. (In French)

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On construction sites or in workshops, the driving of elevating power trucks can cause serious accidents for drivers and other operators. This article on the safety of elevating trucks covers selection criteria, the importance of wearing seat belts, the authorization of drivers and the characteristics of several types of truck. (107006)

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CIS 07-1185 Scaffolding - Points that need to be checked. (French: Echafaudages - Points de vérification) Prévention BTP, Feb. 2007, No.93, p.30-31. Illus. (In French)

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To allow scaffolding to be used safely, prior checks need to be made on four specific items, namely collective protection, access, fastening and stability. These requirements are specified in article R.233-13-35 section 2 of the French Labour Code. (107105)

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CIS 07-1186 Temporary signalling, permanent safety. (French: Signalisation temporaire, sécurité permanente) Sagot F., Prévention BTP, Feb. 2007, No.93, p.38-47. Illus. (In French)

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Regulatory requirements concerning temporary signalling at roadworks sites are complex and constantly evolving. This special feature covers the prevention of occupational hazards during roadworks, both for motorists and for workers on the site, by means of signalling that is appropriate, modern and in compliance with regulations. (107107)

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CIS 07-1187 Evaluation of road accident risk among employees required to drive cars or commercial vehicles on public roads in the course of their work. (French: Evaluation du risque routier chez les salariés qui conduisent sur la voie publique un véhicule (VL ou PL) pour leur activité professionnelle) Alcouffe J., Chaudron B., Montéléon P.Y., Roux F., Wargon C., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 3rd quarter 2006, Vol.46, No.3, p.319-333. 5 ref. (In French)

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The objective of this study was to evaluate the occupational risk of having a road accident and its relationship with organizational factors in small and medium enterprises in the Ile-de-France (Paris) region of France. It was carried out by means of a questionnaire survey, including an evaluation based on the Epworth sleepiness scale. Among approximately 12,000 workers questioned, 12% drove vehicles as part of their job (other than construction site equipment and exluding home-workplace commuting). Most were men (84%), of average age 38.5 years, among whom only 12% suffered from disturbed vigilance, which however was not associated with the 126 accidents which had occurred in the preceding 12 months. Other findings are discussed. (107002)

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CIS 07-1188 Optimal working zone division for safe track maintenance in the Netherlands. den Hertog D., van Zante-de Fokkert J.I., Sjamaar S.A., Beusmans R., Accident Analysis and Prevention, Sep. 2005, Vol.37, No.5, p.890-893. Illus. 11 ref. (In English)

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After a sequence of serious accidents in the Netherlands, the safety of rail track workers became an urgent and political problem. Analysis revealed that working on rail tracks was one of the most dangerous jobs. The Dutch Railways decided to divide the railway infrastructure into working zones that can be taken out of activity during maintenance work. An essential problem consisted of how to divide the Dutch railway infrastructure while satisfying conflicting interests. This article shows how the division rules were developed and implemented. (107026)

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CIS 07-1189 Working at height continues to claim lives. How can this be avoided?. (Spanish: El trabajo en alturas sigue cobrando vidas, ¿cómo evitarlo?) Velásquez Castrillón C.A., Protección y seguridad, Sep.-Oct. 2006, Vol.52, No.309, p.50-51. Illus. (In Spanish)

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Many efforts have been undertaken in Colombia to reduce the number of accidents involving falls from heights, and a technical regulation on work at heights is currently being prepared. In order to reduce the rate of accidents involving falls from heights, isolated actions are not sufficient. A structured intervention system should be adopted within the enterprise for identifying and evaluating the hazards, assigning responsibilities, developing internal rules, training the workers, carrying out inspections and recording the findings in a report. The broad outline of such a system is presented in this article. (107018)

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CIS 07-1190 Identifying human factors associated with slip and trip accidents. Peebles L., Wearing S., Heasman T., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. x, 53p. Illus. Price: GBP 10.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-6160-1 (In English)

Internet:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr382.pdf

This report details the findings of a research project to investigate the impact of human factors on the likelihood and severity of slip and trip accidents. The study was based on the responses to a detailed questionnaire by a variety of industry sectors. Specific objectives of the study were to investigate fully the human factors associated with slip and trip accidents, to identify common factors preceding the accident event from the perspective of the duty holder and the injured party, to determine critical points where the momentum of events leading to the accident could have been neutralized and to identify usable, practical strategies for the control and reduction of slip and trip accidents. (107087)

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CIS 07-1191 Exploratory study of heavy truck tyre blowout and explosion phenomena. (French: Etude exploratoire sur les phénomènes d'éclatement et d'explosion de pneus de camions lourds) Benoît R., Gou M., Bellavigna O., Vu-Hhanh T., Dolez P., Arrieta C., Nohilé C., Ha-Anh T., 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, 134p. Illus. 243 ref. Price: CAD 15.90. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-082-1 (In French)

Internet:
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-479.pdf

In Quebec in the last four years, three fatal accidents involving heavy vehicles were directly attributable to the bursting of tyres. The degradation of the rubber under the effect of heat is the main cause. However, there are few apparent warning signs for detecting the beginning or the extent of the degradation with or without pyrolysis. This study provides updated information on the tyre bursting phenomenon, as well as its causes, consequences, risks and means of prevention. It involved a literature survey and an analysis of accident investigation reports. Previous studies dealing with means of degradation and aging of tyres, and the mechanical properties and failures of the wheel-tyre system were also updated. (107137)

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CIS 07-1192 Safety (accidents, falls, slips...). (Dutch: Veiligheid (ongevallen, vallen...); French: Sécurité (accidents, chutes, glissades...)) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2005. 88p. Illus. 73 ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4268

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4268

The objective of the SOBANE approach (screening, observation, analysis and evaluation) is to ensure occupational safety and health by means of a systematic analysis of occupational hazards. This booklet presents the SOBANE approach applied to the prevention of falls. Following a review of general aspects of occupational safety and health management, it explains how to proceed with the observation, analysis and evaluation, together with the qualifications required for carrying out these steps. The following topics are summarized on information sheets: state of flooring; passageways; lighting of emergency exits; work areas; stairways; falls of persons and objects; ladders. (107124)

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CIS 07-1193 7 steps for the prevention of falls and trips (Belgium), c2006. (Dutch: 7 stappen naar preventie van val- en struikelpartijen; French: 7 étapes pour la prévention des chutes et des faux-pas (Belgique), 2006) Prevent, rue Gachard 88/4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, [ca 2006]. 8p. 4 ref. (In Dutch, French)

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Falls on the level and from heights are among the main causes of occupational accidents. This guide presents a seven-step safety plan for the prevention of falls: defining the baseline; setting up a communication system; identifying problem areas; developing the plan; implementing the plan; evaluating the results; setting the policy on a firm basis. (107133)

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CIS 07-1194 Technical guidance on the safe use of lifting equipment offshore. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 2007. iii, 56p. Illus. 23 ref. Price: GBP 16.50., ISBN 978-0-7176-6229-6 (In English)

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This guide is aimed at persons involved in the supply, operation and control of lifting equipment used in the offshore environment. Its purpose is to assist them in the safe operation of this equipment and in complying with legal requirements, in particular with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER 98, see CIS 99-1428) and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER 98, see CIS 99-1429). Contents: general considerations on the selection and operation of equipment; types of offshore lifting equipment; equipment for lifting people; drilling equipment; guidance on compliance with LULER and POWER. Revised version of the document indexed under CIS 02-936. (107171)

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CIS 07-1195 Manual lifting and carrying. (French: Le transport des charges à bras; German: Der Lastentransport von Hand) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Mar. 1962. 17p. Illus. 18 ref. (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes the potential health hazards associated with the manual lifting and carrying of loads and sets out measures for reducing effects on the spine: correct lifting technique, maximum permissible load weights, advice for women and young and older workers. (107233)

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CIS 07-1196 Ladders. (French: Echelles; German: Leitern) Potter H., International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Dec. 1966. ii, 74p. Illus. 25 ref. (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes the causes of accidents involving ladders and provides guidance on the choice of ladder and its safe use: transport of ladders, ladder placing, securing ladders against falling, safe work on ladders, misuse of ladders, inspection and maintenance. (107242)

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CIS 07-1197 Powered and non-powered hand tools. (Dutch: Machines en handgereedschappen; French: Machines et outils à main) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2005. 180p. Illus. 46 ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.nova.inrct.be/pdf/pd/frdd73.pdf

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3868

The objective of the SOBANE approach (screening, observation, analysis and evaluation) is to ensure occupational safety and health by means of a systematic analysis of occupational hazards. This booklet presents the SOBANE approach applied to powered and non-powered hand tools. Following a review of general aspects of occupational safety and health management, it explains how to proceed with the observation, analysis and evaluation, together with the qualifications required for carrying out these steps. The following topics are summarized on information sheets: various types of powered and non-powered hand tools; locking procedures; control systems; work postures; manual handling; lifting devices; personal protective equipment; Belgian and European regulations. (107122)

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CIS 07-1198 Safety devices for belt and other conveyors. (French: Dispositifs de sécurité des transporteurs à bande et des engins de manutention continue; German: Schutzvorrichtungen an Bandförderern und andern Stetigförderern) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Feb. 1962. 20p. Illus. 3 ref. (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes typical accidents involving belt and other conveyors and outlines various safety devices. (107231)

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CIS 07-1199 Circular saws. (French: Scies circulaires; German: Kreissägen) Chavanel A., International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Nov. 1962. 50p. Illus. 13 ref. (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes the hazards associated with circular saws used for working wood and similar materials and provides guidance on safety measures for the prevention of accidents. (107237)

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CIS 07-1200 The prevention of accidents due to sliding, vertical-lift and up-and-over doors. (French: Prévention des accidents dus aux portes coulissantes et basculantes; German: Verhütung von Unfällen an Kipptoren, Hubtoren und Schiebetoren) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Jan. 1962. 24p. Illus, (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes typical accidents involving sliding, vertical-lift and up-and-over doors and sets out safety measures relating to their design, construction, inspection and maintenance. (107232)

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CIS 07-1201 Flexible swing doors and air curtains. (French: Portes souples et rideaux d'air; German: Pendeltüren und Luftvorhänge) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Jan. 1964. 21p. Illus. (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes the design and use of flexible swing doors in industrial premises. It covers door materials, door closing systems, layout, visibility, automatic opening and instructions for power-truck drivers. Also looks at the use of air curtains. (107238)

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CIS 07-1202 Work at height - Regulations. (French: Le travail en hauteur - Réglementation) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Jan. 2007. Internet document. Illus. 4 ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_catalog_view_view/2AB74FA88826EF94
   …C1256DDE005CBA92/$FILE/print.html

This Internet document summarizes existing French regulations on work at height. It outlines general principles for identifying and avoiding risks during work at height, including the incorporation of safety measures at the design stage of a building, and sets out specific safety provisions for work equipment used in temporary work at height and for work on construction sites. (107034)

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CIS 07-1203 Safety in the construction of reinforced-concrete floors. (French: La sécurité dans la construction des planchers en béton armé; German: Sicherheit im Massivdeckenbau) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Aug. 1967. 26p. Illus. (In English, French, German)

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This information note describes typical accidents during the construction of reinforced-concrete floors, analyses accident causes and sets out safety requirements in relation to site management, quality of concrete materials, shuttering techniques, placement of concrete floors, and floors incorporating precast concrete joists. (107246)

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CIS 07-1204 Asbestos-cement roofs. (French: Toitures en amiante-ciment; German: Wellasbestzementdächer) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Feb. 1969. 13p. Illus. 14 ref. (In English, French, German)

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This information note reviews the mechanical hazards associated with the laying of corrugated asbestos-cement roofs and provides guidance on safety measures. (107248)

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[ Top of page ]

010 Biological hazards

CIS 07-1205 Acute blood neutrophilia induced by short-term compost dust exposure in previously unexposed healthy individuals. Müller T., Jörres R.A., Scharrer E.M., Hessel H., Nowak D., Radon K., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, June 2006, Vol.79, No.6, p.477-482. 36 ref. (In English)

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The purpose of this study was to examine whether a single exposure at a composting facility could exert systemic effects in healthy volunteers not previously exposed to organic dust from such facilities. Seventeen subjects (aged 20-35 years) were exposed to organic dust for 2h (exposure day) during moderate exercise; 12 of these subjects also took part in a control experiment (control day), without exposure. Spirometry was performed before and immediately after the exposure. White blood cell counts and levels of tumour-necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6 in peripheral blood were determined before and 3h after exposure. Short-term exposure of healthy, young subjects to organic dust from composting facilities had opposite effects on the numbers of blood neutrophils and blood eosinophils. These effects, though mild, suggest that even a limited period of moderate work may cause a sufficient amount of bioactive material to be deposited in the lung to elicit acute systemic alterations. (107053)

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CIS 07-1206 Airways inflammation among workers in poultry houses. Rylander R., Carvalheiro M.F., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, June 2006, Vol.79, No.6, p.487-490. 26 ref. (In English)

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This study evaluated the usefulness of airway responsiveness measurements to diagnose the presence of airways inflammation and relate this to occupational exposure among poultry workers. The group studied comprised 42 non-smoking poultry workers and 40 non-smoking controls unexposed to organic dusts. The presence of symptoms was evaluated using a standardized questionnaire for organic dust exposures. Airway responsiveness was measured using the methacholine challenge test. The concentrations of airborne endotoxin and (1-3)-β-D-glucan were measured. Exposure levels were in excess of those expected to cause effects in the airways. Compared to controls, exposed workers had significantly higher airway responsiveness and a higher prevalence of toxic pneumonitis, airways inflammation and chronic bronchitis. Endotoxin levels in the poultry buildings exceeded those suggested in earlier studies as the threshold value for airways inflammation. (107055)

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CIS 07-1207 Occupational accidents resulting from exposure to the bacterium Legionella pneumophila. (Spanish: Accidentes de trabajo derivados de la exposición a la bacteria Legionella pneumophila) Muñoz Donzel N., Megias Guijo M., Moreno Toval E., Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo, Dec. 2006, No.40, p.24-28. Illus. 7 ref. (In Spanish)

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Legionellosis is a disease that can be acquired in occupational settings and which consists of two clinical forms, Pontiac fever and legionnaire's disease. This article comments on two Spanish court rulings in cases of accidental occupational exposure to Legionella pneumophila with fatal outcomes. (107015)

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CIS 07-1208 Legionella: To what extent and what prevention measures?. (French: Les légionelles: quelle ampleur et quelle prévention?) Rammeh H., Ben Mansour H., Hidri A., Nouaigui H., SST - Santé et Sécurité au Travail, Jan. 2007, No.40, p.2-10. Illus. 8 ref. (In French)

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Contents of this special feature on legionellosis: bacterium responsible for propagation; zones of bacterial build-up; contamination by aerosol inhalation; individual factors that increase the risk; exposures that involve risk; epidemiological data; clinical forms (Pontiac fever, legionellosis); diagnosis; medical treatment; risk factors (humidification chambers, cooling towers); prevention (design of equipment, personal protection); environmental survey (sampling and analysis). (107115)

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CIS 07-1209 Biological hazards in municipal wastewater treatment plants. (Polish: Zagrożenia biologiczne w oczyszczalniach ścieków komunalnych) Gołofit-Szymczak M., Zapór L., Bezpieczeństwo pracy, 2007, No.3, p.26-28. Illus. 11 ref. (In Polish)

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Workers of municipal wastewater treatment plants are exposed to several kinds of viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites. Biological contaminants can be responsible for a variety of adverse health effects including allergy, hypersensitivity, respiratory problems and infectious diseases. Measures for exposure prevention are outlined. (107220)

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CIS 07-1210 Research gaps in protecting healthcare workers from SARS and other respiratory pathogens: An interdisciplinary, multi-stakeholder, evidence-based approach. Yassi A., Moore D., FitzGerald J.M., Bigelow P., Hon C.Y., Bryce E., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.47, No.1, p.41-50. Illus. 57 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this literature survey was to identify priorities for further research in protecting healthcare workers from severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and other respiratory pathogens. Factors examined included the basic science of infectious bioaerosols and the efficacy of facial protective equipment, as well as the organizational, environmental and individual factors that influence the success of infection control and occupational health programmes. Focus groups were also held with health care workers in Toronto, Canada. Critical gaps in knowledge were identified and prioritized. Highest priority was given to organizational factors that create a climate of safety. Other priority areas included practical measures to control bioaerosols at the source. (107024)

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CIS 07-1211 Occupational sensitization to storage mites in the personnel of a water-damaged grocery store. Koistinen T., Ruoppi P., Putus T., Pennanen S., Harju A., Nuutinen J., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.79, No.7, p.602-606. 29 ref. (In English)

Internet:
http://www.springerlink.com/content/p303n44j40h4368t/fulltext.pdf

The objective of this study was to investigate occupational exposure and sensitization to storage mites (SM) in sales staff working in a moisture-damaged building and three healthy reference buildings. The study population consisted of all 12 employees of the moisture-damaged grocery store and twelve symptom-free controls working in three healthy reference groceries, matched by age, sex and occupation. Dust samples from each building were examined for mites. The clinical study consisted of an otorhinolaryngological examination and a determination of IgE reactivity to three SMs and two house dust mites. Prick tests were made to the same five mites and to five common aeroallergens. If sensitization to any of the SMs was detected, a nasal provocation test was also performed. SMs were found in all buildings. Seven cases and four control subjects showed IgE-mediated reactivity. Other findings are discussed. (107164)

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CIS 07-1212 Ornithosis-psittacosis: Beware of infections caused by birds. (French: Ornithose-psittacose: gare aux infections dues aux oiseaux) Durcy M., Prévention BTP, Jan. 2007, No.92, p.58-59. Illus. (In French)

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Construction industry workers are at risk of exposure to ornithosis-psittacosis, an infectious disease transmitted by bird droppings. The bacterium which causes the infection is very stable and can survive several months in dried droppings without losing its potency. The most frequent signs are fever, shivering, headache, cough and flu-like symptoms. It can also cause moderate or severe bronchopneumonia. It is recognized as an occupational disease in France. Preventive measures include the usual hygiene precautions, working in a manner to avoid the formation of aerosols and use of personal protective equipment. (107009)

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CIS 07-1213 Aircraft disinsection. Rayman R.B., Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, July 2006, Vol.77, No.7, p.733-736. 16 ref. (In English)

Internet:

The purpose of aircraft disinsection is to protect public health, the environment, agriculture and livestock from insect vectors. The World Health Organization published general disinsection procedural guidelines in the International Health Regulations (IHR). A 2% pyrethrum solution, a naturally occurring substance found in the chrysanthemum flower, or several synthetic pyrethroids, are the recommended agents because they are extremely effective insecticides which pose minimal health risks. However, there are reports of symptoms allegedly due to insecticide exposure among cabin crew. This paper discusses the background of aircraft disinsection and the procedures to be followed, together with the types of agents and their toxicity. (107070)

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CIS 07-1214 Protection of hospital workers from risks of occupational exposure to biological agents. (Polish: Ochrona pracowników szpitali przed ryzykiem związanym z ekspozycją na czynniki biologiczne) Zielińska-Jankiewicz K., Kozajda A., Szadkowska-Stańczyk I., Medycyna pracy, 2005, Vol.56, No.5, p.367-373. 24 ref. (In Polish)

Internet:

A questionnaire survey was carried out in 47 hospitals to assess activities aimed at protecting workers from risks associated with exposure to biological agents. Of the recommendations laid down in Directive 2000/54/EC (see CIS 03-1046), the following requirements were those best satisfied by the hospitals under study: provision of collective and personal protective measures; washing and sanitary facilities; separate dinning rooms; recording of accidents involving handling of biological agents. Most shortcomings were observed with regard to: risk assessment; appropriate marking of rooms where biohazard may occur; written procedures for safe handling of biological agents; and implementation of a vaccination programme against hepatitis B. (107204)

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CIS 07-1215 Biological agents and occupational health. (Dutch: Biologische agentia en gezondheid op het werk; French: Les agents biologiques et la santé au travail) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2007. 36p. Illus. 11 ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3854

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=3854

Aimed at employers, this guide comments on the Belgian Royal Order of 4 August 1996 concerning the protection of workers against risks connected with the exposure to biological agents at work (see CIS 00-1532) and explains how to ensure its compliance within the enterprise. Contents: definitions and scope; health effects of biological agents; hazard evaluation; documents to be completed by employers; risk prevention and control; health surveillance; vaccination; roles of the various parties involved in risk prevention and health surveillance. (107128)

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[ Top of page ]

011 Physiology, ergonomics

CIS 07-1216 Working hours regulations and fatigue in transportation: A comparative analysis. Jones C.B., Dorrian J., Rajaratnam S.M.W., Dawson D., Safety Science, Apr. 2005, Vol.43, No.4, p.225-252. Illus. 42 ref. (In English)

Internet:

Fatigue is recognized as one of the most important safety issues in transportation. This article identifies and compares the laws and regulations of four English speaking nations that limit working hours for safety purposes, and evaluates them against eight fatigue-related criteria. In addition, International and European Union law are considered where relevant. Two different styles of regulation were utilized by the countries surveyed: a prescriptive "hours of service" approach, and a non-prescriptive "outcomes" approach. The advantages and disadvantages of these two models are discussed. A proposal for a hybrid approach between the prescriptive and non-prescriptive systems is presented. (107021)

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CIS 07-1217 Sleepiness/fatigue and distraction/inattention as factors for fatal versus nonfatal commercial motor vehicle driver injuries. Bunn T.L., Slavova S., Struttmann T.W., Browning S.R., Accident Analysis and Prevention, Sep. 2005, Vol.37, No.5, p.862-869. Illus. 31 ref. (In English)

Internet:

A retrospective population-based case-control study was conducted to determine whether driver sleepiness/fatigue and inattention/distraction increase the likelihood that a commercial motor vehicle collision will be fatal. Based on the Kentucky Collision Report Analysis for Safer Highways (CRASH) electronic database, 1998-2002, cases were identified as commercial vehicle drivers who died following a collision accident and controls were drivers who survived an injury collision. Cases and controls were matched by vehicle and roadway type. Conditional logistic regression was performed. Driver sleepiness/fatigue, distraction/inattention, 51 years of age and older, and non-use of safety belts increased the odds of fatal commercial vehicle collision accidents. Implications of these findings are discussed. (107025)

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CIS 07-1218 Sleepiness in professional drivers: Effect of age and time of day. Otmani S., Rogé J., Muzet A., Accident Analysis and Prevention, Sep. 2005, Vol.37, No.5, p.930-937. Illus. 30 ref. (In English)

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The effects of age and time of day on objective and subjective sleepiness in professional drivers were investigated during a simulated driving task. Thirty-six young and middle-aged professional male drivers, free from any sleep disorder, took part in two simulated driving sessions; one carried out in the afternoon, the other at night. Half of each age group drove in light traffic conditions while the other half drove in heavy traffic. Throughout the driving task, subjects' electroencephalogram and Karolinska sleepiness scale scores were recorded. Visual analogue scales measuring alertness and sleepiness levels were also completed before and after the driving. After each session, subjects filled out the NASA-TLX questionnaire and were asked if they had felt sleepy during the driving. The young drivers presented a significant decrease in alertness in the low traffic condition and a strong propensity to sleep during the night test in contrast to middle-aged drivers. (107027)

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CIS 07-1219 A randomised controlled trial evaluating the effects of two workstation interventions on upper body pain and incident musculoskeletal disorders among computer operators. Rempel D.M., Krause N., Goldberg R., Benner D., Hudes M., Goldner G.U., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2006, Vol.63, No.5, p.300-306. Illus. 33 ref. (In English)

Internet:

This one-year study evaluated the effects of a wide forearm support surface and a trackball on upper body pain severity and incident musculoskeletal disorders among 182 call centre operators at a large healthcare company. Participants were randomized to receive ergonomics training, training plus a trackball, training plus a forearm support, or training plus a trackball and forearm support. Outcome measures were weekly pain severity scores and diagnosis of incident musculoskeletal disorders in the upper extremities or neck/shoulder region based on physical examination performed by a physician. Post-intervention, 63 participants were diagnosed with one or more incident musculoskeletal disorders. Hazard rate ratios (HRs) showed a protective effect of the armboard for neck/shoulder disorders (HR=0.49) after adjusting for baseline pain levels and demographic and psychosocial factors. The armboard also significantly reduced neck/shoulder pain and right upper extremity pain. (107041)

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CIS 07-1220 Shift work and work injury in the New Zealand blood donors' health study. Fransen M., Wilsmore B., Winstanley J., Woodward M., Grunstein R., Ameratunga S., Norton R., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2006, Vol.63, No.5, p.352-358. 23 ref. (In English)

Internet:

The objective of this study was to investigate associations between work patterns and the occurrence of work injury. A cross sectional analysis of the New Zealand Blood Donors Health Study was conducted, focusing on the 15,687 (70%) participants who reported being in paid employment. After measurement of height and weight, a self-administered questionnaire collected information concerning occupation and work pattern, lifestyle behaviour, sleep, and the occurrence of an injury at work requiring treatment from a doctor during the past 12 months. Findings are discussed. Work injury was found to be highly associated with rotating shift work, even when accounting for high-risk occupations, lifestyle factors, and excessive daytime sleepiness. (107045)

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CIS 07-1221 Importance of industrial and manufacturing engineering roles in ergonomics and safety. Chikumba S., On Guard, June 2006, Vol.12, No.2, p.14-23. 20 ref. (In English)

Internet:

This article discusses safety and ergonomic hazards in Zimbabwe and examines their effects on productivity in manufacturing industries, current efforts to control them and the role of industrial engineers. Contents: ergonomics-related occupational hazards; economic benefits of improved ergonomics; occupational health challenges in Zimbabwe; incorporation of ergonomics into manufacturing improvement tools. Tables provide statistics of occupational injuries in Zimbabwe in 2001 and 2002, by sector, place of accident and type of accident. (107047)

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CIS 07-1222 Don't stand for pain. Stanley C., Plant Engineer, July-Aug. 2006, p.22-24. Illus. (In English)

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Working while standing for extended periods of time can cause backache, varicose veins and various other health problems. This article discusses the benefits of anti-fatigue mats for workers required to work in a standing posture. (107059)

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CIS 07-1223 A 12 year prospective study of circulatory disease among Danish shift workers. Tüchsen F., Hannerz H., Burr H., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2006, Vol.63, No.7, p.451-455. 24 ref. (In English)

Internet:

The objective of this study was to estimate the risk of circulatory disorders among shift workers. It was carried out in the form of a prospective follow up of a representative sample of employed persons in Denmark, considering known or suspected confounding factors. A cohort of 5517 workers employed in 1990 was followed up for all hospital treatments due to circulatory disorders from 1991 to 2002. A regression model was applied to control confounding factors and to calculate the relative risk for 927 men and women working nights or evenings compared to 4579 day workers. Non-day workers compared to day workers had a relative risk (RR) for all circulatory disorders of 1.31. Without control for body mass index and smoking, the RR estimate was 1.33. For a subgroup of workers with at least three years' seniority, the RR was 1.40. This study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that shift work carries an excess risk of circulatory disorders. (107062)

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CIS 07-1224 Work organization and musculoskeletal injuries among a cohort of health care workers. Koehoorn M., Demers P.A., Hertzman C., Village J., Kennedy S.M., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.32, No.4, p.285-293. 34 ref. (In English)

Internet:

This study investigated the relationship between work-organization factors (job control, job demands and workload) and the risk of lower-body musculoskeletal injury among health care workers. A four-year, retrospective cohort study of 3769 heath care workers was carried out at a hospital in the Canadian province of British Columbia. A job-exposure matrix was constructed for the work-organization factors from survey and administrative data. Musculoskeletal injuries resulting in workers' compensation claims were ascertained from the injury database of the hospital's occupational health and safety department. Data were subjected to statistical analyses. Results indicate that work-organization characteristics (job control and workload) were associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries resulting in a compensation claim. These associations remained after the effects of demographic and biomechanical factors were taken into consideration. (107096)

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CIS 07-1225 Fighting back. Cable J., Occupational Hazards, Aug. 2006, p.23-28. Illus. (In English)

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Of the 1.3 million reported lost-time injuries and illnesses in private industry in the USA in 2003, sprains and strains most often involving the back were the leading type of injury in every major industry sector, accounting for 43% of the total lost-time cases, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics. An insurance company estimates that in 2005, injuries caused by overexertion defined as excessive lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, carrying or throwing an object, all of which are key ingredients of back injuries, cost employers USD 13.4 billion. This article outlines the key elements of a back safety programme based on four main components: training, engineering controls, fitness and health care initiatives. Also describes an ergonomics programme implemented in an airline company. (107149)

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CIS 07-1226 What is known about temperature and complaints in the upper extremity? A systematic review in the VDU work environment. Meijer E.M., Sluiter J.K., Frings-Dresen M.H.W., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, June 2006, Vol.79, No.6, p.445-452. 38 ref. (In English)

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Upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are frequently reported among visual display units (VDU) workers. These complaints include cold forearms, hands or fingers. The aim of this literature survey was to examine the relationship between objective and subjective temperature decrease and MSDs in the upper extremity in the VDU work environment by internal or external cooling of the arm and hand. It was found that forearm, hand and finger temperature are significantly dependent on the ambient temperature. However, it was concluded that no consistent evidence is available for the association between upper extremity MSDs and temperature changes in the forearm, hand or fingers in an office work environment. (107051)

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CIS 07-1227 Lifetime occupation and physical function: A prospective cohort study on persons aged 80 years and older living in a community. Russo A., Onder G., Cesari M., Zamboni V., Barillaro C., Capoluongo E., Pahor M., Bernabei R., Landi F., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2006, Vol.63, No.7, p.438-442. Illus. 37 ref. (In English)

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The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between lifetime occupation and physical function in persons aged 80 years or older. Data were obtained from the baseline evaluation of 364 subjects enrolled in a prospective cohort study in central Italy. Assessments included the physical performance battery score and hand grip strength. Of the total sample, 75% had a history of manual work and 25% of non-manual work. Manual workers had significantly lower grip strengths and physical performance battery scores than non-manual workers. These differences were confirmed even after adjustment for potential confounders (including age, gender, education, depression, cognitive performance scale score, physical activity, number of diseases, hearing impairment, history of alcohol abuse, smoking habit and haemoglobin level). A history of manual work, especially when associated with high physical stress, is independently associated with low physical function and muscle strength in older persons. (107061)

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CIS 07-1228 Sleep deprivation of working adolescents - A hidden work hazard. Teixeira L.R., Fischer F.M., Lowden A., Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 2006, Vol.32, No.4, p.328-330. 15 ref. (In English)

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This review article discusses the sleep deprivation of adolescents and young workers, and its impact on their work and learning. Several studies have shown that working adolescents wake up earlier, have shorter nocturnal sleep duration and higher levels of sleepiness during wake time during the week than nonworking students do. These studies indicate that working students may have their learning ability negatively affected by being tired and sleepy. Therefore, on the basis of these results, it is recommended that educational programmes geared to sleep hygiene should be one of the priorities of the curriculum. At the same time, the hours of work of teenagers should be shortened in order to allow them to work and study during daytime and to have enough time at night for leisure and rest. These recommendations would improve the quality of life of the population that already is or will soon be participating in the job market. (107098)

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CIS 07-1229 Lighting. (Dutch: Verlichting; French: Eclairage) Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot I, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 60p. Illus. 4 ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=5896

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=5114

The objective of the SOBANE approach (screening, observation, analysis and evaluation) is to ensure occupational safety and health by means of a systematic analysis of occupational hazards. This booklet presents the SOBANE approach applied to lighting at the place of work. Following a review of general aspects of occupational safety and health management, it explains how to proceed with the observation, analysis and evaluation, together with the qualifications required for carrying out these steps. The following topics are summarized on information sheets: units of measurement; desirable lighting as a function of the type of work; general recommendations; working with computers; types of lamps; types of ceiling lamps; glare and visual fatigue. (107121)

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CIS 07-1230 Artificial lighting in factory and office. (French: L'éclairage artificiel dans les ateliers et les bureaux; German: Künstliche Beleuchtung in Betrieb und Büro) Lowson J.C., International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Sep. 1965. ii, 61p. Illus. 6 ref. (In English, French, German)

Internet:



This information note describes the basic requirements of lighting in the workplace and provides guidance on the choice of illumination level, selection of lamps and light fittings, installation planning, interior colour treatment, maintenance, situations requiring special lighting techniques, glare assessment and control and diagnosis and remedy of complaints. (107241)

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CIS 07-1231 Ergonomics of machine guarding. (French: Protection des machines et ergonomie; German: Ergonomie und Maschinenschutz) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, Dec. 1964. 18p. Illus. 11 ref. (In English, French, German)

Internet:



This information note explains how human measurements should be taken into account in the design of machine guards. It focuses on reach distances in relation to various guard designs. (107240)

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[ Top of page ]

012 Stress, psychosocial factors

CIS 07-1232 Job pressure in the construction industry. (French: Pression du travail dans la construction) Prevent Focus, Dec. 2006. p.14-16. Illus. 1 ref. (In French)

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This article presents the summary of a study on job pressure and stress in the construction industry, according to which "sustainable work" depends on four factors: occupational stress, motivation, learning possibilities and work-life balance. (107101)

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CIS 07-1233 External violence at work among cashiers of hypermarkets, supermarkets and convenience stores in Ile-de-France. (French: La violence externe au travail chez les hôtes et hôtesses de caisses dans la grande distribution, les supérettes et les mini libres-services en Ile-de-France) Alcouffe J., Chaney C., Le Pache J., Manillier P., Montéléon P.Y., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 3rd quarter 2006, Vol.46, No.3, p.335-345. Illus. 17 ref. (In French)

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The objective of this cross-sectional study was to describe and evaluate the frequency of external violence inflicted on supermarket cashiers. It involved a questionnaire survey administered by 63 occupational physicians among 1325 supermarket employees in the Greater Paris region. The sample consisted mostly of women (88%), of average age 32 years. Practically all employees (94%) declared having been subjected to at least one type of violence: armed robbery (7.8%), blows and injuries (3.9%), aggressive behaviour (34.2%), verbal violence (63.0%), abuse (84.1%) and shouting in the queue (81.5%). When occurring repeatedly, these events may cause various pathologies. Other findings are discussed. (107003)

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CIS 07-1234 Risk of affective and stress-related disorders among employees in human service professions. Wieclaw J., Agerbo E., Mortensen P.B., Bonde J.P., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2006, Vol.63, No.5, p.314-319. 37 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this case-control study was to examine the risk of affective and stress related disorders in human service occupations. 28,971 cases were identified among all hospitalized patients and outpatients in Denmark aged 18-65 who received a first time ever diagnosis of affective or stress-related disorder between 1995 and 1998. Each case was assigned five never-admitted referents of the same sex and age, randomly drawn from the Danish population. Health care, education, social work, and customer services were defined as human service occupations and constituted 21% of all those in the study. The relative risk of depression in human service professions was 1.35 for women and 1.49 for men. The risk of stress was 1.18 for women and 1.49 for men. Specific occupations contributed differentially to the magnitude of risk, with education and social services displaying the highest risks. No increase in risks was found in customer service occupations. (107042)

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CIS 07-1235 Development and implementation of a participative intervention to improve the psychosocial work environment and mental health in an acute care hospital. Bourbonnais R., Brisson C., Vinet A., Vézina M., Lower A., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2006, Vol.63, No.5, p.326-334. 40 ref. (In English)

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This article describes the development and implementation phases of a participative intervention aimed at reducing adverse psychosocial work factors and their mental health effects among 500 care providers in a Quebec hospital. A prior risk evaluation was performed and showed a high prevalence of adverse psychosocial factors and psychological distress among care providers compared to a reference population. Psychosocial variables at work associated with psychological distress were high psychological demands (prevalence ratio (PR)=2.27), low social support from supervisors and co-workers (PR=1.35), low reward (PR=2.92), and effort-reward imbalance (PR=2.65). Qualitative methods permitted the identification of 56 adverse conditions. It was decided to target interventions towards team work and team spirit, staffing processes, work organization, training, communication, and ergonomics. See CIS 07-1236 for an assessment of the effectiveness of the intervention. (107043)

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CIS 07-1236 Effectiveness of a participative intervention on psychosocial work factors to prevent mental health problems in a hospital setting. Bourbonnais R., Brisson C., Vinet A., Vézina M., Abdous B., Gaudet M., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2006, Vol.63, No.5, p.335-342. 34 ref. (In English)

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This article describes the evaluation of a workplace intervention aimed at reducing adverse psychosocial work factors (psychological demands, decision latitude, social support, and effort-reward imbalance) and mental health problems among care providers of a Quebec hospital. Participants were interviewed by phone before and one year after the intervention. One year after the intervention, there was a reduction of several adverse psychosocial factors in the experimental group, whereas no such reduction was found in the control group. Results suggest positive effects of the intervention. See CIS 07-1235 for details of the development and implementation phases of the study. (107044)

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CIS 07-1237 What are we to make of safe behaviour programs?. Hopkins A., Safety Science, Aug. 2006, Vol.44, No.7, p.583-597. Illus. 32 ref. (In English)

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This article provides a critical look at the assumptions that underlie safe behaviour programmes and identifies some of their limitations. They often run the risk of assuming that unsafe behaviour is the only cause of accidents worth focusing on. It is argued that unsafe behaviour is often merely the last link in a causal chain and not necessarily the most effective link to focus on for the purposes of prevention. One major drawback of these programmes is that they miss critically important unsafe behaviour, such as attempts by workers to re-start processes that have been temporarily interrupted. Conventional safe behaviour programs aimed at front line workers are also of no use in preventing accidents in which the behaviour of front line workers is not involved. It is concluded that, given that it is the behaviour of management that is most critical in creating a culture of safety in any organization, behavioural safety observations are likely to have their greatest impact if directed upwards, at managers. (107157)

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CIS 07-1238 Work-family conflict as a risk factor for sickness absence. Jansen N.W.H., Kant I., van Amelsvoort L.G.P.M., Kristensen T.S., Swaen G.M.H., Nijhuis F.J.N., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2006, Vol.63, No.7, p.488-494. 39 ref. (In English)

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The objective of this study was to assess the relationships between work-family conflict and sickness absence among 5072 men and 1015 women. Data on work-family conflicts were obtained by means of questionnaires and sickness absence from company records. High levels of work-family conflict, work-home interference and home-work interference were all associated with higher odds of sickness absenteeism, after controlling for age and long term disease. Differences in average number of days absent between cases and non-cases of work-home interference were significant for men and most pronounced in women. (107067)

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CIS 07-1239 Striking a balance - Work, family and everyday life. (Finnish: Työn, perheen ja muun elämän yhteensovittaminen) Mäki L., ed., Työterveiset - Newsletter of the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, 2006, special issue No.1, 19p. (whole issue). Illus. (In English, Finnish)

Internet:
http://www.ttl.fi/Internet/English/Information/Electronic+journals/Tyoterveiset+
   …journal/2006-01/default.htm

http://www.ttl.fi/Internet/Suomi/Tiedonvalitys/Verkkolehdet/Tyoterveiset/2006-01/

Topics addressed in this special issue on the balance between work, family and everyday life: research and development activities on work/life balance at the Finish Institute of Occupational Health; gender and age equality aspects of work/life balance; immigrant women and working life in Finland; labour requirements in health care; child care and flexible work schedules for working couples. (107080)

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CIS 07-1240 Gestures or words that are very hurtful. (French: Des gestes ou des mots qui font très mal) Bondéelle A., Brasseur G., Siano B., Travail et sécurité, Mar. 2007, No.671, p.16-26. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.travail-et-securite.fr/ArchivesTS/ArchivesTS.nsf/(allDocParRef)/TS671
   …page17_1/$File/TS671page17.pdf?OpenElement

Topics addressed in this special feature on the prevention of physical violence and verbal abuse at work: responsibilities of employers to ensure the safety and health of workers; simple measures for avoiding external violence; role of safety specialists; approaches adopted in various sectors (banks, boutiques of a telephone services provider, public transport). (107102)

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CIS 07-1241 Impact of psychosocial job stress on non-fatal occupational injuries in small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises. Nakata A., Ikeda T., Takahashi M., Haratani T., Hojou M., Fujioka Y., Swanson N.G., Araki S., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 2006, Vol.49, p.658-669. Illus. 44 ref. (In English)

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This study examined the association between psychosocial job stress and occupational injuries among workers in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Subjects included 1049 men and 721 women from 244 SMEs. Perceived job stress was evaluated with the Japanese version of the generic job stress questionnaire, which covered 14 job stress variables. Occupational injury was assessed by self-report during the last one-year period. Workers with high quantitative workload (odds ratio (OR) 1.55 for men, 1.62 for women), high cognitive demands (OR 1.70 for men, 1.53 for women) and low job satisfaction (OR 1.33 for men, 1.93 for women) had a significantly increased risk of occupational injury in the multivariate model. Other findings are discussed. (107147)

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CIS 07-1242 Work and mental disorders in a German national representative sample. Roesler U., Jacobi F., Rau R., Work and Stress, July-Sep. 2006, Vol.20, No.3, p.234-244. 38 ref. (In English)

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This study on occupational risk factors of mental disorders involved 2329 German employees (aged 18-65 years) who took part in a structured, computer-assisted clinical interview. Further, they specified whether their job was characterized by physical workload, overtime or stress, and evaluated whether they felt impaired by each job characteristic. Results show that substance abuse/dependence (including nicotine dependence) was the highest prevalent mental disorder (12 month prevalence: 14.4%) followed by anxiety (12.0%) somatoform (9.7%), and affective (9.3%) disorders. Sequential logistic regression analyses showed significant associations between the presence of stress at work and affective and somatoform disorders. Other findings are discussed. (107151)

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CIS 07-1243 Measuring exposure to bullying at work: The validity and advantages of the latent class cluster approach. Notelaers G., Einarsen S., De Witte H., Vermunt J.K., Work and Stress, Oct.-Dec. 2006, Vol.20, No.4, p.289-302. 31 ref. (In English)

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Although bullying is a complex phenomenon, the dominant method used in bullying surveys only distinguishes two groups: victims versus non-victims. Hence, the complex nature of workplace bullying may not be accounted for. A latent class cluster approach is suggested to model data obtained from the Negative Acts Questionnaire (NAQ) administered to 6175 employees in Belgium. In this study, six latent classes emerged: "not bullied," "limited work criticism," "limited negative encounters," "sometimes bullied," "work related bullied," and "victims." The results show that compared to the traditional operational classification method, the latent class cluster approach shows higher construct and higher predictive validity with respect to self-assessments and indicators of strain and well-being at work. (107152)

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CIS 07-1244 Mobbing prevention. (Polish: Prewencja antymobbingowa) Gersdorf M., Reczyńska-Ratajczak M., Praca i Zabezpieczenie Społeczne, 2007, No.2, p.31-34. (In Polish)

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This article provides a definition of mobbing and identifies the characteristics of potential perpetrators and victims. Employers' responsibilities with respect to mobbing are set out and an anti-mobbing strategy and preventive measures are discussed. (107216)

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CIS 07-1245 Bullying at the place of work - Definitions, prevention, legal recourse and compensation. (Spanish: Acoso moral en el trabajo - Concepto, prevención, tutela procesal y reparación de daños) Correa Carrasco M., ed., Editorial Aranzadi SA, 15 Camino de Galar, 31190 Cizur Menor, 31190 Spain, 2006. 271p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 84-9767-664-5 (In Spanish)

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Contents of this publication on bullying at work: psychosocial perspective of bullying and psychological violence in the workplace; legal definition of bullying in the workplace; current situation with respect to the prevention of bullying at work from a legal perspective; company practices with respect to the prevention of bullying; incidence of the bullying in the scope of the social security system (occupational psychological diseases); civil liability for bullying at work; current situation with respect to legal recourse against bullying; protection against bullying in the public service. (107011)

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CIS 07-1246 Survey on occupational stress - Full report. (French: Enquête sur le stress professionnel - Rapport complet) Légeron P., Cristofini R., Stimulus, 205 rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France, 2006. 132p. Illus. (In French)

Internet:
http://www.ogb-l.lu/pdf/publications/2006/stress.pdf

A survey on occupational stress among the working population was carried out in Luxembourg in 2005. This document, jointly published by the Luxembourg league for mental hygiene (Ligue Luxembourgeoise d'Hygiène Mentale) and the independent confederation of Luxembourg trade unions (Confédération indépendante des syndicats du Luxembourg) is the full report of the survey. Data were collected by means of questionnaires addressed to a representative sample of 1230 gainfully employed persons. The survey revealed that occupational stress is perceived as being high or very high by one out of four respondents, whereas non-occupational stress is perceived as being high or very high by slightly less than one respondent in seven. Women were twice as likely to be affected by stress as were men. Important differences were also observed according to occupation (blue-collar workers were much more at risk) and sector of activity. (107131)

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CIS 07-1247 Acting against relational suffering at work - Manual for persons having to resolve conflicts, bullying and abuse of authority at work. (Dutch: Van meningsverschil tot hyperconflict - Gids voor wie beroepsmatig tussenkomt geconfronteerd wordt met conflicten en grensoverschrijdend gedrag op het werk; French: Agir sur les souffrances relationnelles au travail - Manuel de l'intervenant confronté aux situations de conflit, de harcèlement et d'emprise au travail) Leroy J.F., Faulx D., Devacht I., Antonissen D., eds., Service public fédéral Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot 1, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 147p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:
http://www.emploi.belgique.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=5884

http://www.werk.belgie.be/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=5110

Relational suffering at work includes extreme conflicts, bullying, sexual harassment and violence. This guide is the result of a research programme in the course of which various methodological approaches were used. The first chapter covers concepts, phenomena and the various phases in the development of a conflict. Next, the means of prevention of these problems is addressed, together with four major intervention approaches (support discussion, mediation, group interventions and coaching). A final chapter is devoted to good practices. (107136)

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CIS 07-1248 Raising awareness of psychological harassment at work. Gilioli R., Fingerhut M.A., Kortum-Margot E., eds., World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service,1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, [ca 2003]. 38p. Illus. 19 ref., ISBN 92-4-159052-1 (En), ISBN 92-4-259052-5 (fr) (In English)

Internet:
http://www.who.int/entity/occupational_health/publications/en/pwh4e.pdf

http://www.who.int/entity/occupational_health/publications/en/pwh4f.pdf

Psychological harassment is a form of employee abuse arising from unethical behaviour and leading to victimization of the worker. It is an increasing worldwide problem, which can produce serious negative consequences on the quality of life and on individuals' health. This booklet aims to raise awareness of this issue among health professionals, decision makers, managers, human resources directors, legal community, unions and workers worldwide. It provides information on the characteristics of psychological harassment, such as the definition, differences between normal conflicts and psychological harassment at work, the ways it is practised and the potential consequences for health and society. Special attention is devoted to the causes that favour its development and the measures to be adopted in order to combat it and react to it. (107074)

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CIS 07-1249 Protection against violence, bullying and sexual harassment in the workplace. (Dutch: De bescherming tegen geweld, pesterijen en ongewenst seksueel gedrag op het werk.; French: La protection contre la violence et le harcèlement moral ou sexuel au travail) Cellule publications du SPF Emploi, Travail et Concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blerot 1, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, rev.ed., June 2005. 79p. Illus. (In Dutch, French)

Internet:


This document comments on the Law of 11 June 2002 on the protection of workers against violence, bullying or sexual harassment which came into force in Belgium on 1 July 2002. Contents: definitions; scope; prevention of violence, bullying and sexual harassment; protection of workers, employers and third parties; other legislation on sexual harassment in the workplace. Replaces CIS 03-1499. (107188)

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CIS 07-1250 Human factors and safety. (French: Les facteurs humains et la sécurité; German: Menschliche Faktoren und Arbeitssicherheit) International Occupational Safety and Health Information Centre (CIS), International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, May 1967. ii, 84p. (In English, French, German)

Internet:



This information note explores the role of human factors in relation to accident risk and occupational safety. Topics covered: safety criteria; individual characteristics related to accident risk; personality traits and accident risk; industrial safety and the human environment. (107245)

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Page generated from the CISDOC database. Date: 29.11.09.