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ILO-CIS Bulletin 2007/06CIS 07-1251 --- CIS 07-1500 Chemical data sheets and criteria documentsCIS 07-1251 Boron trifluoride diethyl ether. Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, Birkenwaldstrasse 44, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany, 2007. xiii, 31p. 56 ref. Price: EUR 00.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-3-7776-1529-5 (In English) Internet: Conclusions of this criteria document which reflects the state of knowledge of November 2005: boron trifluoride diethyl ether is an irritant to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. In rats, the 4h LC50 is more than 1000mg/m3. Animal studies at high concentrations show adverse effects on the respiratory tract, kidneys, bone and liver. In mutagenicity tests, the product is non-mutagenic up to the toxic range. No data are available for an evaluation of the sensitization potential, genotoxicity, carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity. (107462)
CIS 07-1252 Isopropylisocyanate. Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, Birkenwaldstrasse 44, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany, 2007. xiv, 40p. 79 ref. Price: EUR 00.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-3-7776-1530-1 (In English) Internet: Conclusions of this criteria document which reflects the state of knowledge of November 2005: isopropyl isocyanate is highly irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. In male rats, the 5h LC50 is 499mg/m3 and the oral LD5l0 is 218mg/kg body weight in rats. Animal studies at high concentrations show adverse effects on the respiratory function. In mutagenicity tests, the product is non-mutagenic up to the toxic range. No data are available for an evaluation of the sensitization potential, genotoxicity, carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity. (107463)
CIS 07-1253 2-Chlorobenzonitrile; 4-chlorobenzonitrile. Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, Birkenwaldstrasse 44, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany, 2007. xiv, 48p. 121 ref. Price: EUR 00.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-3-7776-1531-8 (In English) Internet: Conclusions of this criteria document which reflects the state of knowledge of April 2006: the toxicity of 2-chlorobenzonitrile and 4-chlorobenzonitrile are low. In rats, the oral LD5l0 for 2-chlorobenzonitrile and 4-chlorobenzonitrile are 396mg and 887mg per kg body weight respectively. For 2-chlorobenzonitrile, the 4h LC50 in rats is more than 440mg/m3 and the dermal LD5l0 in rabbits is between 340 and 600 mg/kg body weight. No corresponding data are available for 4-chlorobenzonitrile. In mutagenicity tests, 2-chlorobenzonitrile is non-mutagenic up to the cytotoxic range. No data on mutagenicity are available for 4-chlorobenzonitrile. No data for either substance are available for an evaluation of the sensitization potential, genotoxicity, carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity. (107464)
CIS 07-1254 Pyrazolic acid 3. Advisory Committee on Existing Chemicals (BUA), S. Hirzel Verlag, Birkenwaldstrasse 44, 70191 Stuttgart, Germany, 2007. xiii, 22p. 37 ref. Price: EUR 00.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-3-7776-1532-5 (In English) Internet: Conclusions of this criteria document which reflects the state of knowledge of July 2006: in rabbits, pyrazolic acid 3 is not irritating to the skin and weakly irritating to the eye. In rats, the oral LD5l0 is more than 2000mg/kg body weight. In mutagenicity tests, the product is non-mutagenic up to the cytotoxic range. No data are available for an evaluation of the sensitization potential, genotoxicity, carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity. (107465)
CIS 07-1255 Principles for evaluating health risks in children associated with exposure to chemicals. Buck Louis G., Damstra T., Díaz-Barriga F., Faustman E., Hass U., Kavlock R., Kimmel C., Kimmel G., Krishnan K., Luderer U., Sheldon L., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), eds., World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2006. xxii, 329p. Illus. Approx. 850 ref. Price: CHF 50.00; USD 45.00 (CHF 35.00 in developing countries). Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-92-4-157237-8 (In English) Internet: This criteria document explains the scientific principles to be considered in assessing health risks in children, taking into account their unique susceptibilities. The central focus is on the developmental phases of the child from the embryonic phase up to adolescence, rather than on a specific environmental agent, target organ, or disease. It integrates what is known about exposures, toxicity data, and health outcome at different stages of the development of children. Topics addressed: biological characteristics of children; susceptibilities and outcomes that are specific to developmental stages; exposure assessment of children; methodologies to assess health outcomes in children; implications and strategies for risk assessment among children. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish are included. (107314)
CIS 07-1256 Mono- and disubstituted methyltin, butyltin, and octyltin compounds. Dobson S., Howe P.D., Floyd P., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2006. iv, 65p. Illus. Approx. 280 ref. Price: CHF 30.00; USD 27,00 (CHF 21.00 in developing countries). Downloadable version free of charge, ISBN 978-92-4-153073-6 (In English) Internet: Organotin compounds (organotins) are mainly used as PVC stabilizers, catalysts for electrodeposited coatings, additives in silicone rubbers, in powder coatings and in the coating of glass. This criteria document evaluates the health and environmental effects of these compounds. The organotins covered in this report have low acute toxicity in laboratory animals, with most studies indicating LD50 values above 100mg/kg. They should be regarded as irritants to the skin and eyes. In animal studies, short to medium-term exposures have shown neurotoxicity, developmental toxicity, immunotoxicity and endocrine disruption. There is little data on the effects of organotins in humans. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish are included. (107320)
Training materials and practical informationCIS 07-1257 An introduction to the WISE programme - 1) Materials handling and storage; 2) Workstation design; 3) Machine safety; 4) Control of hazardous substances; 5) Lighting; 6) Work-related welfare facilities; 7) Work premises; 8) Work organization. (French: Introduction au programme WISE - 1) Manutention et stockage; 2) Aménagement des postes de travail; 3) Sécurité des machines; 4) Contrôle des matières dangereuses; 5) Eclairage; 6) Installations de bien-être au travail; 7) Aménagement des lieux de travail; 8) Organisation du travail; Spanish: Presentación del programa WISE - 1) Almacenamiento y la manipulación de materiales; 2) Diseño de los puestos de trabajo; 3) Uso más eficiente de sus máquinas; 4) Mejor control de las sustancias peligrosas; 5) Mejor iluminación; 6) Servicios de bienestar; 7) Establecimientos industriales; 8)Organización del trabajo) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, [c2007]. 16p. Illus. + eight 6p. leaflets. (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: The WISE method (Work Improvements in Small Enterprises) is a programme developed by the ILO to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in improving working conditions and productivity using simple, effective and affordable techniques that provide direct benefits to employers and workers. This collection of documents includes a booklet presenting the method, the training programmes and examples of implementation of the method in Haiti, the Philippines and Mongolia. A series of eight leaflets (training modules) explains the application of the method in various fields of occupational safety and health or working conditions improvement. (107291)
CIS 07-1258 Why fall for it? Preventing falls in agriculture. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2007. 11p. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: Falls from heights are one of the main causes of fatal accidents in agriculture. Many accidents occur while agricultural buildings or other structures are being built or maintained. These jobs often require temporary access to height such as ladders, scaffolds or platforms. Falls frequently occur because the equipment used is defective, not appropriate or used incorrectly. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (see CIS 06-1047) require that all work at height is properly planned, supervised and carried out by persons who are competent to do the job. The case studies used in this booklet are based on actual accidents investigated by the Health and Safety Executive, followed by examples of good practice to help ensure compliance with the law. (107292)
Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisualsCIS 07-1259 Developing a health and safety plan for hazardous field work in remote areas. Gochfeld M., Volz C.D., Burger J., Jewett S., Powers C.W., Friedlander B., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2006, Vol.3, No.12, p.671-683. Illus. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: Developing health and safety plans (HASPs) is a common feature of occupational safety and health for many workplaces. Formal HASPs are a requirement for hazardous waste work. Aside from that of OSHA, there is relatively little practical guidance on what a HASP should cover or how to create and implement one. This article details the development of a HASP to cover field researchers and ship personnel conducting scientific research in a remote area (Amchitka Island in the western Aleutians), hundreds of kilometres from the nearest emergency room. It required characterizing the kinds of work to be performed and anticipating the hazards that could be encountered. An expedition of this sort requires extensive planning and experienced safety personnel, and cannot rely on luck to ensure the safe return of participants. (107259)
CIS 07-1260 Occupational accidents in the Komi Republic, Russian Federation. (Russian: Nesčastnye slučai na proizvodstve v respublike komi) Solonin Y., Boyko E., Barents - Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, 2007, Vol.10, No.1, p.7-9 (English); p.10-12 (Russian). 1 ref. (In English, Russian) Internet: The Komi Republic in the Russian Federation is characterized by an arctic climate and an industry which largely consists of raw materials extraction, two factors which account for a high level of hazards and occupational accidents. This article summarizes the key statistics of occupational accidents in the Komi Republic in 2005 by sector of activity, type of accident and cause of accident, together with the statistical trends for the 2001-2005 period. (107288)
CIS 07-1261 No breakdowns for maintenance. (French: Pas de panne pour la maintenance) Richez J.P., Martin S., Ravallec C., Larcher C., Travail et sécurité, July-Aug. 2007, No.675, p.22-32. Illus. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: Maintenance activities involve increasingly-complex equipment. This collection or articles covers the topic of safe working methods during maintenance operations, whether carried out by the owners of the facilities or by external contractors working on site. Contents: viewpoints of ergonomics, equipment engineering and safety experts at the INRS and a French regional accident insurance institution (CRAM); taking maintenance-related accidents into account in the EPICEA database of occupational accidents in France; procedures implemented at a manufacturer of industrial equipment, an automobile manufacturer and a producer of aluminium products. (107407)
CIS 07-1262 Occupational safety and health statistics bulletin. (Chinese: Zhiye anquan ji jiankang tongji shuzi jianbao) Occupational Safety and Health Statistics Bulletin, July 2006, No.6, p.1-8 (whole issue). Illus. (In Chinese, English) Internet: The statistics in this bulletin provide information and analysis on work-related accidents and confirmed cases of occupational disease in Hong Kong during the year 2005, with breakdowns by economic sectors and trends from 1996 to 2005. In 2005, the number of occupational injuries in all workplaces stood at 44,267, a slight increase of 0.5% over 2004, while the injury rate per 1000 employees decreased slightly from 18.1 to 17.8 or 1.7%. Of the 29 fatalities, 25 concerned the construction industry. The total number of occupational diseases in 2005 was 256, a level comparable to that of 2004. They primarily consisted of upper extremity disorders, silicosis and hearing loss, as well as tuberculosis among health care workers. (107268)
CIS 07-1263 Attestation of workplaces on the basis of working conditions, its role in the OSH management system of an enterprise. (Russian: Mesto i rol' attestacii rabočih mest po uslovijam truda v sisteme upravlenija ohranoj truda na predprijatii) Faynburg G., Barents - Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, 2007, Vol.10, No.1, p.13-16 (English); p.16-19 (Russian). 7 ref. (In English, Russian) Internet: This review article provides a Russian perspective to occupational safety and health management systems. It presents the Russian system of workplace attestation based on working conditions and comments the similarities and differences between this system and the ILO OSH 2001 system (see CIS 02-162). (107289)
CIS 07-1264 Establishment and development of modern occupational safety and health management at enterprises - ILO-OSH 2001 in Russia. (Russian: Sozdanie i razvitie sovremennyh sistem upravlenija ohranoj truda na predprijatijah - Proekt MOT "Ulušenie sistemy ohrany truda na Severo-Zapade Rossii") Litvyakov R., Kulikov S., Barents - Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, 2007, Vol.10, No.1, p.20-23 (English); p.23-26 (Russian). Illus. 5 ref. (In English, Russian) Internet: The ILO Subregional Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia launched a programme on occupational safety and health management systems in Northwest Russia in 2005, aimed at encouraging the implementation of the ILO-OSH 2001 management system (see CIS 02-162). This article presents some of the initiatives already undertaken or underway in the Republic of Karelia and in the Leningrad region in the framework of this programme, including workshops and pilot projects within selected enterprises. (107290)
CIS 07-1265 The impact of occupational injury reduction on the U.S. economy. Zaloshnja E., Miller T.R., Waehrer G., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2006, Vol.49, No.9, p.719-727. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: Preventing occupational injuries reduces labour costs to employers. These savings filter through the economy, impacting its performance. This study was carried out to measure the impact of occupational injury reduction on national economic output, gross domestic product, national income and employment by using an input-output model of the United States economy. Occupational injury costs by industry for 1993 were used as the baseline for an input-output model, and the impact of the 38% injury rate reduction between 1993 and 2002 was measured. It is estimated that the declining occupational injury rate increased employment by an estimated 550,000 jobs. The increase in gross domestic product was USD 25.5 billion or 9% of the GDP increase from 1993 to 2002. However these estimates do not take account of the costs of the prevention efforts that made these improvements possible. (107431)
CIS 07-1266 Cost differences across demographic groups and types of occupational injuries and illnesses. Leigh J.P., Waehrer G., Miller T.R., McCurdy S.A., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 2006, Vol.49, No.10, p.845-853. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study based on nationwide United States data for 1993, an analysis was conducted of fatal and non fatal injury costs across age, race, gender and occupational groups as well as categories of injuries and illnesses. The youngest (age < 17) and oldest (age > 65) workers had exceptionally high fatality costs. Whereas men's costs for non-fatal incidents were nearly double those for women, their costs for fatal injuries were 10 times higher. The farming, forestry and fishing sector had the highest costs for fatal and non fatal injuries (USD 5,163), over 18 times the lowest ranking occupation, executives and managers (USD 279). The occupation of handlers, cleaners and labourers, ranked highest for non fatal costs. Compared to whites, African-Americans had a lower percentage of costs due to carpal tunnel syndrome, circulatory and digestive diseases. Other findings are discussed. (107437)
CIS 07-1267 Recent trends in ILO conventions related to occupational safety and health. Wilson D.J., Takahashi K., Smith D.R., Yoshino M., Tanaka C., Takala J., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.3, p.255-266. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to analyze the level of ratification of International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions related to occupational safety and health (OSH) by ILO Member States. Seventeen conventions designated as OSH-related by the 2003 International Labour Conference were examined. In general, countries with longer ILO membership ratified higher numbers of conventions related to OSH. There were also incremental increases in the number of ratifications for OSH-related conventions according to the national income status. Future efforts to increase ratification at an international level will need to consider the factors influencing ratification practice among the member states. (107471)
CIS 07-1268 Perilous pursuits. Todd R., Safety and Health Practitioner, Nov. 2006, Vol.24, No.11, p.52-54. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: An increasing number of enterprises have to send their employees into work situations that are hostile, be that due to war, insurrection, or natural disaster. This article draws on the experiences of a safety and health advisor in some of the world's most volatile locations to provide an overview of what such enterprises need to consider. Topics addressed: planning; sources of information; hazard evaluation; role of field risk coordinator. (107474)
CIS 07-1269 Tailor made. Cooling R., Safety and Health Practitioner, Jan. 2007, Vol.25, No.1, p.48-50. Illus. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: This article discusses how to design and deliver a tailor-made safety and health training programme. The steps include identifying needs, establishing the aims and objectives, addressing the content, delivering the training and evaluating the programme. (107489)
CIS 07-1270 OSH checklists. (Portuguese: Checklists de SST) Ministério do Trabalho e da Solidariedade Social, Inspecção Geral do Trabalho, Praça de Londres, 2-16, 1049-056 Lisboa, Portugal, 2003. Collection of PDF documents (23p total). (In Portuguese) Internet: Checklists for evaluating the safety and health hazards associated with machinery used for the lifting or transport of materials, mobile machinery, and the winery and agricultural sectors. A checklist for verifying that advertisements for jobs do not present any sexual bias is also included. (107304)
CIS 07-1271 Making an impact on SME compliance behaviour: An evaluation of the effect of interventions upon compliance with health and safety legislation in small and medium sized enterprises. Fairman R., Yapp C., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. vi, 104p. Illus. 124 ref. Price: GBP 25.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-6143-1 (In English) Internet: The project described in this report evaluated how external interventions affect SME compliance behaviour. It examined the impact of intervention on standards of compliance, the processes by which compliance occurred and how external intervention impacted on these processes. The study was conducted in small hairdressing shops in six regions of the United Kingdom. Formal compliance with COSHH (see CIS 03-1023), electrical safety and risk assessment requirements were assessed by examining the case notes of the local authorities and by interviewing managers or owners of the hairdressing shops. All the hairdressing shops believed they complied fully even though formal compliance levels ranged from 19.5% to 61%. Furthermore, compliance was not found to be part of a rational decision-making process. Other findings are discussed. (107338)
CIS 07-1272 Proceedings of the China international forum on work safety. (Chinese: Zhongguo guoji anquan shengchan luntan) National Center for International Exchange and Cooperation on Work Safety (Coal Mine Safety), 21 Hepingli Beijie, Beijing 100713, China, 2002. 699p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: USD 30.00. (In Chinese, English) Internet: Proceedings of an international forum on work safety held in Beijing, China, from 10 to 12 October 2002. Papers are grouped under the following topics: legislation, regulations, inspection and insurance; occupational safety management systems; hazard evaluation; information, training and research. (107300)
CIS 07-1273 A review of safety culture and safety climate literature for the development of the safety culture inspection toolkit. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. viii, 42p. Illus. 66 ref. Price: GBP 10.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-6144-X (In English) Internet: Following the recommendations made from inquiries into several major railway accidents in the United Kingdom, the Railway Inspectorate requested that a safety culture inspection toolkit be developed. The toolkit was required to provide a pragmatic approach for the measurement of safety culture in rail organizations. The Inspectorate requested that the approach should focus on a limited number of indicators that are known to influence safety culture. The first phase of the project described in this report consisted of a literature review, in which the five indicators found to be the most relevant were leadership, two-way communications, employee involvement, learning culture and attitude towards blame. (107339)
CIS 07-1274 Report of occupational accident statistics for the five-year period from 2000 to 2004. (Portuguese: Relatório de estatística de acidentes de trabalho de quinquénio de 2000 à 2004) Ministério da administração pública, emprego e segurança social, rua do 1° Congresso do MPLA No.5, Luanda, Angola, 2005. 26p. Illus. (In Portuguese) Internet: Contents of this report of occupational accident statistics for the five-year period from 2000 to 2004 in Angola: numbers of accidents and percentage distribution of total and fatal occupational accidents by province, age, sector of activity, causal agent, site of injury, most affected categories of workers and professionals, and type of invalidity; cost of occupational accidents; trends in frequency and severity; final considerations. (107305)
CIS 07-1275 The other India at work - Job quality in micro and small enterprise clusters. Joshi G., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. vii, 131p. Illus., ISBN 92-2-117291-0 (In English) Internet: This book is based on the findings of an ILO study undertaken in 2000-2001 in small-scale manufacturing and artisan clusters in Northern India. These include engineering workshops, metalworking, hand block printing, handlooms, ceramic products, embroidery, carpet weaving, brassware, nuts and bolts, and bone and hoof products. The study involved site observation, interviews of workers and discussions of the findings during focus groups with workers' representatives. The findings confirm the need for further actively promoting decent working conditions in these sectors. (107269)
CIS 07-1276 Management of occupational safety and health information in Finnish production companies. Räsänen T., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2007. 170p. Illus. 135 ref. Price: EUR 23.00., ISBN 978-951-802-745-7 (In English) Internet: This report presents a model for developing the safety and health information system of an enterprise. The model includes the description of occupational safety and health hazards and the safety and health information needs of various staff groups, together with an explanation of how to use accident information in the safety evaluation of operations. The model was developed based on a series of interviews and surveys of safety managers in Finnish industrial companies. The report also describes an IT-based occupational safety and health information system, consisting of an information database on occupational accidents, occupational diseases, dangerous chemicals and various safety and health documents required by authorities in Finland. (107296)
CIS 07-1277 Occupational safety and health management systems - Guide to their implementation. (Portuguese: Sistemas de gestão da segurança e saúde no trabalho - Guia para a sua implementação) Pinto A., Edições Sílabo Lda., R. Cidade de Manchester 2, 1170-100 Lisboa, Portugal, 2005. 367p. Illus. 11 ref., ISBN 972-618-371-5 (In Portuguese) Internet: This manual presents the main aspects of occupational safety and health (OSH) management systems, including the scope, benefits in terms of costs savings, means required for their implementation and available documentation. Appendices include an OSH management guide and comments on relevant legal requirements in Portugal. (107303)
CIS 07-1278 Series of the quarterly safety and health newsletter from Korea - 2005. Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA), 34-4 Gusan-dong, Bupyung-gu, Incheon, 403-711, Republic of Korea, Apr. 2006. p.1-103. Illus. (English); p.107-177. Illus. (Korean). (In English, Korean) Internet: Compilation of all articles published in the quarterly newsletters of the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA) for the year 2005. Electronic versions of the articles can be downloaded from the KOSHA website, http://www.kosha.or.kr/eng/english.htm(English) and http://www.kosha.or.kr/index.jsp (Korean). (107315)
CIS 07-1279 50 years of accomplishments in the field of occupational safety and health 1956-2006. (French: 50 ans de réalisations dans le domaine de la santé et de la sécurité au travail 1956-2006) République tunisienne, Ministère des Affaires sociales de la solidarité et des Tunisiens de l'étranger, Direction de l'Inspection médicale et de la sécurité au travail, Oct. 2006. 40p. Illus. (In Arabic, French) Internet: Published to commemorate the 50th anniversary of occupational safety and health services in Tunisia, this booklet consists of a collection of articles on the following topics: university hospital services in occupational medicine; occupational health of women in Tunisia; national occupational health programmes; legislative framework regulating the activities of occupational physicians; reforms of the occupational accident and disease compensation system; occupational accident investigations and statistics; occupational safety and health research in Tunisia; list of relevant legislation. (107330)
CIS 07-1280 Perceptions of health and safety in Malta. Ward E., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. 228p. Illus. Price: GBP 35.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2393-9 (In English) Internet: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) was selected to assist the Maltese Occupational Health and Service Authority (OSHA) to meet their obligations under European Union legislation prior to the accession of Malta to the European Union. This research project was commissioned by the HSE to provide basic data on occupational safety and health (OSH) in Malta, to determine the levels of awareness and perceptions of OSH issues and to provide an analysis of communication opportunities in Malta. This report focuses specifically on the development of a communications strategy for OSHA. (107333)
CIS 07-1281 Report of activities 2006. (German: Jahresbericht 2006) Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, 2006. 91p. Illus. Index. (In German) Internet: Contents of this report of activities of the Occupational Safety and Health Institute of the Federation of German Professional Associations: tasks (general development, research, development, consultancy, testing and certification); areas of activity (general activities, chemical development, biological development, toxicology, dust explosions, developments in physics, ergonomics, personal protection, accident prevention and product safety); international activities; information dissemination (general, databases and software, publications, meetings, exhibitions, cooperation with institutes and educational institutions). (107469)
CIS 07-1282 Labour and social trends in ASEAN 2007 - Integration, challenges and opportunities. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. vii, 107p. Illus., ISBN 978-92-2-119838-3 (In English) Internet: This ILO report discusses the challenges and opportunities in the ASEAN economies as they move towards integration and work to remain competitive. It is the first comprehensive compilation of employment and social data for the ASEAN members including labour productivity, youth employment, the informal economy and the working poor. (107494)
CIS 07-1283 Annual report 2006. Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, 34-4 Gusan-dong, Bupyung-gu, Incheon 403-711, Republic of Korea, 2006. 41p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Contents of this annual report of the Korean Occupational Safety and Health Agency (KOSHA) for the year 2006: message from the President; introduction to KOSHA; main prevention projects undertaken during the year; statistics of accidents and occupational diseases; organization chart; number of employees; contact information; announcement of an international occupational safety and health conference to be held in Seoul, Korea, 29 June-2 July 2008. (107497)
CIS 07-1284 Biennial report 2005-6. Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag 7, Congella, 4013 South Africa, 2007. 41p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Contents of this activity report for the 2005-2006 biennium of the Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health of the University of KwaZulu-Natal: introduction; structure and administration; staff; activities 2005-2006; research outputs 2005-2006; grants and funding. (107498)
CIS 07-1285 National Workplace Safety and Health Campaign 2007. Workplace Safety and Health Advisory Committee, 5 Maxwell Road, 20-00 Tower Block, MND Complex, Singapore 0069110, 2007. CD-ROM. (In English) Internet: This CD-ROM contains a number of posters, flyers, videos and documents published for the 2007 National Safety and Health Campaign in Singapore, held from 20 April to 24 May 2007. The documents include a the Workplace Safety and Health Strategy 2015 (WSH2015), a directors' guide to Workplace Safety and Health Act, implementing WSH2015 in the construction industry and the annual report of the Workplace Safety and Health Advisory Committee (WSHAC) for 2005-6. The target set is to halve the number of work-related fatalities to 2.5 per 100,000 workers by 2015. In an effort to help the construction industry to implement WSH 2015, the WSHAC has developed a workplace safety and health strategy for the construction industry. (107500)
CIS 07-1286 Keys to student work. (Dutch: Wegwijs in de studentenarbeid; French: Clés pour le travail des étudiants) Service public fédéral Emploi, travail et concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blériot 1, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, May 2006. 75p. Illus. (In Dutch, French) Internet: This booklet summarizes the main Belgian legal provisions and regulations that apply to students who work and their employers. It describes the terms of the student employment contract together with the various measures aimed at protecting young workers. It also explains the implications of student work with respect to social security and their taxation or that of their parents. Working students face a number of safety and health hazards which are discussed in the booklet, which also contains a list of useful addresses and an example of a student employment contract. (107323)
CIS 07-1287 Best practices guide - Fundamentals of a workplace first-aid program. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 2006. 23p. Illus. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: This OSHA guide identifies the four essential elements for first-aid programs to be effective: management leadership and employee involvement, worksite analysis, hazard prevention and control, and safety and health training. The guide details the primary components of a first-aid program at the workplace, which include: identifying and assessing workplace risks; designing a program that is specific to the worksite and complies with OSHA first-aid requirements; instructing all workers about the program, including what to do if a co-worker is injured or ill; evaluating and modifying program to keep it current, including regular assessment of the first-aid training course. The guide also includes best practices for planning and conducting safe and effective first-aid training. (107458)
CIS 07-1288 MAEVABTP2. (French: MAEVABTP2) Organisme Professionnel de Prévention du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics (OPPBTP), Tour Amboise, 204, rond-point du Pont-de-Sèvres, 92516 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France, 2006. CD-ROM. (In French) Internet: MEAVA-BTO consists of a five-step computer-assisted method aimed at helping construction industry employers structure the hazard evaluation exercise through a multidisciplinary approach to occupational safety and health. It also helps them compile the single document, obtain practical information on occupational safety and health solutions on the Internet and put together and publish an action plan. There are two versions of the software, suited to either small or large enterprises. (107321)
CIS 07-1289 Complete database of accident prevention directives of the German Mutual Occupational Accident Insurance Association on CD-ROM. (German: BGVR Gesamtausgabe) Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Carl Heymanns Verlag KG, Luxemburgerstrasse 449, 50939 Köln, Germany, 37th ed., 2007. CD-ROM., ISBN 3-452-23845-8 (In German) Internet: This CD-ROM contains the full text of German safety and health directives, technical rules and other German occupational safety and health guidance documents published by the Mutual Accident Insurance Associations. For the previous edition, see CIS 05-678. (107461)
CIS 07-1290 6th international congress on occupational safety, hygiene and health. (Portuguese: 6o congresso internacional de segurança, higiene e saúde do trabalho) Instituto para a Segurança, Higiene e Saúde do Trabalho, Divisão de informação e documentação, av. da República, 84, 1600-205 Lisboa, Portugal, Dec. 2006. CD-ROM containing documents in pdf format. (In Portuguese) Internet: Proceedings of an international conference on occupational safety, hygiene and health held in Porto, Portugal, on 23 and 24 February 2006. The aim of the conference was to broaden current understanding of occupational safety, hygiene and health issues, both for policy-makers and for persons responsible for enterprise- level prevention programmes. The CD-ROM includes nineteen papers in pdf format. (107301)
CIS 07-1291 Bibliographical database of theses. (Portuguese: Banco Bibliográfico de Teses) Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego, Fundacentro, Rua Capote Valente 710, São Paulo, SP 06409-002, Brazil, 2007. CD-ROM. (In Portuguese) Internet: CD-ROM containing over 500 abstracts of theses published in Brazil in the field of occupational safety and health, in HTML format. (107381)
CIS 07-1292 Plan of instruments to strengthen occupational health and the control of occupational hazards - Results. (Spanish: Plan de instrumentos para fortalecer la salud ocupacional SAO y el aseguramiento de los riesgos asociados a la actividad laboral SRT - Resultados) Rodríguez Guzmán J., Paredes Cubillos N., Moreno Díaz L.A., Gómez G.E., Fundación Iberoamericana de Seguridad y Salud Ocupacional, Ave. Calle 26 No 69C - 03 Torre A, Piso 6, Bogotá D.C., Colombia, 2002. CD-ROM containing documents in various formats (MS Access, Word, PowerPoint). (In Spanish) Internet: This report presents the findings of a project aimed at formulating a regional plan and developing instruments for the strengthening of occupational safety and health in Central American countries (Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Guatemala and Dominican Republic). Contents: objectives of the project; general objectives; summary of the activities carried out; final regional results; current occupational safety and health legislation; population characteristics; characteristics of the system and the structure of the institutions; occupational safety and health administrations; coverage of the occupational safety and health compensation systems; statistics of occupational accidents and diseases; occupational accident and disease support and prevention services; occupational safety and health training; multilateral projects; summary of the consensus with respect to priority problems and decisions; lessons learned; evaluation model; final recommendations. (107383)
CIS 07-1293 America's safety challenge. McMillan A.C., National Safety Council, 1121 Spring Lake Drive, Itasca, IL 60143-3201, USA, [c2007]. CD-ROM containing a PowerPoint presentation. (In English) Internet: Mortality from unintentional injuries is the first cause of death in the United States for persons under the age of 38 and the fifth leading cause of death for all ages. Each year, one in eight Americans suffers an injury requiring medical attention. Five percent of the some 100,000 fatal injuries occur at the place of work. This PowerPoint presentation explains why fatal injuries concern employers whether or not they occur at the place of work and presents the mission of the National Safety Council with respect to the reduction in fatal injuries. (107385)
CIS 07-1294 Tripartism and social dialogue - The heart of the ILO. (French: Tripartisme et dialogue social - au cœur du BIT; Spanish: Tripartismo y diálogo social - en el corazón de la OIT) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. DVD (PAL format), 20min., ISBN 978-92-2-119466-8 (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This short orientation film has been produced as part of the follow-up to the 2002 International Labour Conference Resolution concerning tripartism and social dialogue. Featuring ILO constituents and staff, the film promotes social dialogue and tripartism as key means to deliver on the Office's mandate. (107387)
CIS 07-1295 Lung cancer mortality and occupational exposure to asbestos among telephone linemen: A historical cohort study in France. Meguellati-Hakkas D., Cyr D., Stücker I., Févotte J., Pilorget C., Luce D., Guénel P., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2006, Vol.48, No.11, p.1166-1172. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this cohort study was to analyse mortality from lung cancer in telephone linemen exposed to low levels of asbestos during the installation of telephone cables. A total of 308 lung cancer deaths were identified in the cohort. Exposure to asbestos and other occupational carcinogens was assessed using a job-exposure matrix. The relative risk for lung cancer death associated with an estimated exposure of approximately 2 fibres/cc-years was 2.1 as compared with workers exposed to less than 0.5 fibres/cc-years. Mean annual exposure or exposure duration were not clearly related to lung cancer. Adjustment for other occupational lung carcinogens did not change this finding. The observed mortality by lung cancer associated with asbestos exposure at low levels is higher than the prediction based on linear extrapolations from data on highly exposed occupational cohorts. (107251)
CIS 07-1296 Cancer risk among firefighters: A review and meta-analysis of 32 studies. LeMasters G.K., Genaidy A.M., Succop P., Deddens J., Sobeih T., Barriera-Viruet H., Dunning K., Lockey J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2006, Vol.48, No.11, p.1189-1202. 65 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this literature survey was to quantitatively and qualitatively assess cancer risk among firefighters. A comprehensive search of computerized databases and bibliographies was performed. The criteria used to assess the probable, possible or unlikely included pattern of risks identified through the meta-analyses, study type and heterogeneity testing. The criteria were applied to 21 types of cancer. The findings from 32 studies indicated that firefighters had a probable risk for multiple myeloma with a summary risk estimate (SRE) of 1.53, non Hodgkin lymphoma (SRE 1.51), prostate cancer (SRE 1.28) and testicular cancer (SRE 2.02). Eight additional cancers were listed as having a possible association with firefighting. (107252)
CIS 07-1297 A cohort mortality study of employees in the U.S. carbon black industry. Dell L.D., Mundt K.A., Luippold R.S., Nunes A.P., Cohen L., Burch M.T., Heidenreich M.J., Bachand A.M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2006, Vol.48, No.12, p.1219-1229. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to evaluate historical mortality patterns, especially due to cancers, among workers in the carbon black industry in the United States. The causes of death among the 5011 workers employed one year or more since 1930 were identified. Age-, race-, sex-, and calendar year-adjusted standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated using specific mortality rates of the states in which the plants were based. All-cause (SMR 0.74) and all-cancer mortality (SMR 0.83) showed significant deficits. No excess was observed from lung (SMR 0.97) or bladder (SMR 0.93) cancers or from non-malignant respiratory diseases (SMR 0.99). No trends were seen with duration of employment or time since hire for any cause of death. (107253)
CIS 07-1298 Asbestos-related disease compensation - 2006: At the crossroads. Blundell T., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Oct. 2006, Vol.22, No.5, p.427-440. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: In Australia, the incidence of asbestos-related disease (including mesothelioma, asbestos-related pleural disease and lung cancer) is increasing. While victims generally have an entitlement to compensation, their accessibility to this entitlement may be restricted as many of the existing insurance systems are currently being reviewed and undergoing procedural change. However, the new procedures in Australia will be more widely accepted if the proposed changes are fair, and do not restrict or reduce the rights to the entitlements of persons with asbestos-related diseases. This article argues that it is vital that the level of asbestos compensation entitlements payable to victims of asbestos-related diseases is maintained and their rights to proper representation, appeal and review are preserved. (107282)
CIS 07-1299 The epidemiology of malignant mesothelioma. Leigh J., Henderson D., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Oct. 2006, Vol.22, No.5, p.441-447. 50 ref. (In English) Internet: Based on a literature survey, this article reviews the epidemiology of malignant mesothelioma, discussing history, incidence trends, occupational and non- occupational asbestos causation, and putative non-asbestos causation. It also describes the global situation in relation to estimated future incidence. (107283)
CIS 07-1300 Lung cancer related to asbestos exposure: Causation and compensation. Leigh J., Henderson D., Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Oct. 2006, Vol.22, No.5, p.449-462. 71 ref. (In English) Internet: Based on a literature survey, this article reviews the evidence for lung cancer causation as a result of asbestos exposure and the effect that smoking has on this relationship. The effects of asbestos fibre type are also discussed. Medico-legal criteria for attributing lung cancer causation to asbestos exposure are proposed. The effects of genetic susceptibility and the possibility of causal apportionment systems are also discussed. (107284)
CIS 07-1301 Malignant tumours caused by asbestos: Recognition as occupational diseases. (French: Tumeurs malignes causées par l'amiante: reconnaissance comme maladies professionnelles; German: Durch Asbest bedingte bösartige Tumoren: Anerkennung als Berufsfkankheit) Rüegger M., Jost M., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, 2007, No.78, p.64-70. Illus. 14 ref. (In French, German) Internet: The current practice of the Swiss accident insurance institution (SUVA) with respect to the recognition of malignant tumours due to asbestos as occupational diseases is described in order to facilitate their declaration. The criteria for recognition of pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma and for bronchial carcinoma are presented, along with the historical trends in the number of cases recognized as occupational diseases in Switzerland and a comparison with other countries. (107402)
CIS 07-1302 Carpal tunnel syndrome in occupational medicine practice. Bugajska J., Jędryka-Góral A., Sudoł-Szopińska I., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.29-38. 59 ref. (In English) Internet: The various methods available for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) are discussed, with special emphasis on those that can be used by physicians for the early diagnosis in workers doing monotonous work. It also discusses occupational factors, non-occupational factors (such as post-traumatic deformation of bone elements of the carpal tunnel, degenerative and inflammatory changes in tendon sheaths, connective tissue hypertrophy or formation of crystal deposits) leading to CTS, diagnostic methods (subjective symptoms, physical examination, provocative tests, vibration perception threshold, electrophysiological examination and imaging methods), and therapeutic and preventive tools available in occupational medicine practice. (107411)
CIS 07-1303 Respiratory problems of workers in the zarda industry in Kolkata, India. Ghosh T., Barman S., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.91-96. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: Zarda is a type of chewing tobacco popular in India. In zarda factories, workers mix tobacco leaves with various chemicals, then dry the mix in ovens and pack the product for distribution. Workers are highly exposed to tobacco dust. This study was undertaken to assess the pulmonary and respiratory problems of workers in a zarda factory in Kolkata, India. A total of 70 zarda workers were studied. The study involved the completion of a questionnaire on pulmonary and respiratory problems, medical inspections including spirometry and worksite inspections using the OSHA-recommended ergonomics checklist. It was found that many workers complained of respiratory symptoms and that their lung capacity and peak expiratory flow rates were considerably reduced. (107414)
CIS 07-1304 Cost of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in developing countries: Colombia case. Piedrahita H., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.4, p.379-386. 26 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in Colombia was estimated by using the age- and gender-specific double incidence rate of repetitive strain injuries diseases in Finland for 2002. This allowed estimating the number of MSDs recorded in Colombia during 2005 at 23,477 cases, or a rate of 11.6 cases per 10,000 workers. The estimated cost of these MSD cases in terms of productivity loss was USD 171.7 million, representing approximately 0.2% of Colombia's gross domestic product for 2005. The systematic appraisal of the incidence of MSDs and their associated cost on workers' productivity are necessary in developing countries, since they facilitate the implementation of preventive policies at the national level. (107415)
CIS 07-1305 Work-related respiratory symptoms among cotton-fabric sewing workers. Phakthongsuk P., Sangsupawanich P., Musigsan A., Thammakumpee G., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 1st Quarter 2007, Vol.20, No.1, p.17-24. Illus. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: Workers employed in the sewing unit of a 700-bed hospital in the Philippines complained of cough, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest. The aim of this case-control study was to assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms among the sewing workers and dust concentration in the workplace. The study involved 22 sewing workers and 22 housekeepers as controls. All the participants responded to the respiratory symptoms questionnaire and underwent spirometric measurements, skin prick tests, chest radiography and methacholine inhalation tests. The sewing workers reported more phlegm, chest tightness and eye irritation than controls. Neither clinical investigations nor respiratory function provided evidence for a significant difference between the sewing workers and the control group. Although the total and respiratory dust concentrations were within normal limits, ventilation improvements were implemented to decrease dust concentrations. (107418)
CIS 07-1306 Transient risk factors for acute traumatic hand injuries: A case-crossover study in Hong Kong. Chow C.Y., Lee H., Lau J., Yu I.T.S., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2007, Vol.64, No.1, p.47-52. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to identify the risk factors of occupational hand injuries in Hong Kong in order to guide the development of prevention strategies. Study subjects were workers with acute hand injuries presenting compensation claims. Detailed information on exposures to specific risk factors during the 60 minutes prior to the occurrence of the injury, during the same time interval on the day prior to the injury, as well as the usual exposure during the past work-month was obtained through telephone interviews. A total of 196 injured workers were interviewed. Seven significant risk factors were identified: using malfunctioning equipment, using a different work method, performing an unusual work task, working overtime, feeling ill, being distracted and rushing. Wearing gloves was found to have an insignificant protective effect on the occurrence of hand injury. (107422)
CIS 07-1307 The Italian surveillance system for occupational cancers: Characteristics, initial results, and future prospects. Crosignani P., Massari S., Audisio R., Amendola P., Cavuto S., Scaburri A., Zambon P., Nedoclan G., Stracci F., Pannelli F., Vercelli M., Miligi L., Imbriani M., Berrino F., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2006, Vol.49, No.9, p.791-798. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: Occupational cancer monitoring is important for cancer prevention and public health protection. A surveillance system for identifying occupational cancer risks and cancer cases using data from the Italian Social Security archives, cancer registries and hospital discharge records was created and assessed. The advantages and limitations of the system are discussed. The approach appears to be a promising low-cost method for occupational cancer surveillance, at least for some industries, and can be easily implemented in other countries. (107433)
CIS 07-1308 Incidence and suspected cause of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, United Kingdom, 1996-2001. Chen Y., McDonald J.C., Cherry N.M., Occupational Medicine, 2006, No.56, p.406-413. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to estimate population incidence rates for work-related musculoskeletal disorders reported by rheumatologists and occupational physicians in the United Kingdom. Between 1997 and 2001, an average of 2599 new cases/year were reported by rheumatologists, and from 1996, 5278 new cases/year by occupational physicians. Average annual rates overall were 94 per million for rheumatologists and 1643 per million for occupational physicians (a 17-fold difference). The much higher rates reported by occupational physicians reflect, in part, the type of industries they served. Jobs at highest risk for the upper limb were primarily clerical, craft-related and machine work. Tasks associated with upper limb disorders and with neck and back problems were predominantly keyboard work and heavy lifting, and in craft-related occupations with hand tools. (107446)
CIS 07-1309 Incidence by occupation and industry of work-related skin diseases in the United Kingdom, 1996-2001. McDonald J.C., Beck M.H., Chen Y., Cherry N.M., Occupational Medicine, 2006, No.56, p.398-405. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence rates of work-related skin diseases reported by dermatologists and occupational physicians, with emphasis on contact dermatitis by occupation and industry. Cases reported in 1996-2001 to the EPIDERM and OPRA national surveillance schemes were analysed by causal agent, occupation and industry. Average annual incidence rates were 97 per million based on data from dermatologists and 623 from occupational physicians. The much higher rates reported by occupational physicians reflect, in part, the type of industries they served. Contact dermatitis was most frequently attributed to rubber chemicals, detergents and cleaning agents, wet work, nickel and acrylics, while most cases of contact urticaria were attributed to rubber chemicals or foods and flour. Frequency rates of contact dermatitis were highest among skilled workers in the petrochemical, rubber and plastic manufacturing, metal and automotive industries. High proportions of cases attributed to rubber chemicals were reported among nurses and technicians in health and social services. (107447)
CIS 07-1310 Self-reported work-related health problems from the Oslo Health Study. Mehlum I.S., Kjuus H., Veiersted K.B., Wergeland E., Occupational Medicine, 2006, No.56, p.371-379. Illus. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of self-reported work-related health problems. The study was part of the Oslo Health Study in which all individuals in certain age cohorts were invited to a comprehensive health screening. All 30-, 40- and 45-year old subjects who attended the screening were asked if they had experienced any of 11 common health problems in the past month, and whether they considered these to be work-related. Of the 26,074 participants in these age cohorts, 8594 (33%) answered the questionnaire. Nearly 60% of subjects reported one or more work-related health problems. The most commonly-reported were neck and shoulder pain (38%) and low back pain (23%). Neck and shoulder pain was attributed to working conditions by 74% of subjects with this problem; followed by arm pain (72%), fatigue (51%) and low back pain (50%). Work-related fractions for eczema and asthma symptoms were 23 and 18%, respectively. There were marked gender differences, but small age differences. (107449)
CIS 07-1311 Computer professionals and carpal tunnel syndrome (CST). Ali K.M., Sathiyasekaran B.W.C., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.3, p.319-325. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: In this cross-sectional study of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), 648 subjects were selected among 4276 computer professionals from 21 companies, using a simple random sampling method. CTS was diagnosed based on clinical features. The prevalence of CTS was found to be 13.1%. The highest risks of CTS were found among subjects with over eight years of computer work, those working over 12 hrs per day and system administrators (odds ratios of 3.3, 4.9 and 2.5 respectively). Ergonomic considerations are important for ensuring the proper positioning of the hands while working with a computer. Other findings are discussed. (107472)
CIS 07-1312 A 5-year follow-up study on respiratory disorders and lung function in workers exposed to organic dust from composting plants. Bünger J., Schappler-Scheele B., Hilgers R., Hallier E., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2007, Vol.80, No.4, p.306-312. Illus. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this case-control study was to evaluate acute and chronic effects of long-term exposure to organic dust on respiratory disorders and lung function among employees of 41 composting facilities in Germany. It involved 218 compost workers and 66 unexposed controls. They were evaluated using a standardized questionnaire, a clinical examination and spirometric measurements. Changes in symptoms, respiratory disorders and lung function were again determined after five years of exposure in 123 compost workers and 48 controls. Working atmosphere measurements were performed at six composting facilities for respirable dust, cultivable microorganisms and endotoxins. Findings are discussed. The exposure to organic dust at workplaces of composting facilities is associated with adverse acute and chronic respiratory health effects, including mucosal membrane irritation, chronic bronchitis and an accelerated decline of forced vital capacity. The pattern of health effects differs from those at other workplaces with exposures to organic dust possibly due to high concentrations of thermo-tolerant or thermophilic actinomycetes and filamentous fungi at composting plants. (107427)
CIS 07-1313 Structural equation modeling of the relationships between pesticide poisoning, depressive symptoms and safety behaviors among Colorado farm residents. Beseler C.L., Stallones L., Journal of Agromedicine, 2006, Vol.11, No.3/4, p.35-46. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to use structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the theory that a past pesticide poisoning may act as a mediator in the relationship between depression and safety practices. A cross-sectional survey of farmers and their spouses was conducted in eight counties in north-eastern Colorado. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale. SEM showed that poor health, financial difficulties and a history of pesticide poisoning significantly explained the depressive symptoms. Specific depressive symptoms appeared to be significantly associated with animal handling and farm machinery. (107397)
CIS 07-1314 Risk factors for low back injury among farmers in Iowa: A case-control study nested in the Agricultural Health Study. Sprince N., Park H., Zwerling C., Whitten P., Lynch C., Burmeister L., Thu K., Gillette P., Alavanja M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2007, Vol.4, No.1, p.10-16. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to assess risk factors for low back injury among Iowa farmers. Participants in the Iowa Agricultural Health Study were screened to identify 49 male farmers who reported farm work-related low back injury requiring medical advice or treatment in the previous year. They were compared with 465 uninjured male farmer controls. Multivariable modelling identified four risk factors significantly associated with low back injury: age of less than 45 years (odds ratio, OR 3.32), doctor-diagnosed asthma (OR 4.26), education beyond high school (OR 2.12) and difficulty hearing normal conversation, even with a hearing aid (OR 1.98). Future research to assess asthma and difficulty in hearing may be particularly important, since farmers are at increased risk of hearing loss and also come into contact with many inhaled agents that can cause asthma. (107430)
CIS 07-1315 Exposure to pesticides and childhood cancer risk: Has there been any progress in epidemiological studies?. Jurewicz J., Hanke W., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2006, Vol.19, No.3, p.152-169. 53 ref. (In English) Internet: Epidemiological studies focused on childhood cancer and exposures to pesticides conducted over the last seven years were identified through searching medical literature data bases. It was found that leukaemia, brain cancer, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and neuroblastoma were mentioned as potentially associated with pesticide exposure among children. However, the findings are limited because weakness in the research methodology of many studies. In the light of existing, although still limited evidence of adverse effects of pesticides, it is necessary to reduce exposure to pesticides. There is also a need to increase awareness among persons occupationally or environmentally exposed to pesticides concerning their potential negative influence on health of their children. (107478)
CIS 07-1316 Persistence of respiratory symptoms in ex-underground iron ore miners. Hedlund U., Järvholm B., Lundbäck B., Occupational Medicine, 2006, No.56, p.380-385. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this case-control study was to assess the persistence of respiratory symptoms in ex-miners after cessation of mining exposure. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire comparing the prevalence of symptoms between ex-miners who had stopped mining at least one year before the study and referents not occupationally exposed to irritants or dust. Age, smoking and a family history of asthma were considered as possible confounders in the analysis. A total of 206 ex-miners and 4560 referents participated. Ex-miners had on average been working as miners for 13 years and had stopped mining 16 years before the study. Chronic productive cough and physician-diagnosed chronic bronchitis were significantly more common among ex-miners. Furthermore, there was a trend that other respiratory symptoms were more common in ex-miners. (107450)
CIS 07-1317 Acute symptoms associated with asphalt fume exposure among road pavers. Tepper A.L., Burr G.A., Feng H.A., Singal M., Miller A.K., Hanley K.W., Olsen L.D., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2006, Vol.49, No.9, p.728-739. Illus. 28 ref. (In English) Internet: Although asphalt fume is a recognized irritant, previous studies of acute symptoms during asphalt paving have produced inconsistent results. Between 1994 and 1997, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) evaluated workers' exposure and health at seven sites in six States. Exposures of workers to total (TP) and benzene-soluble particulate (BSP) polycyclic aromatic compounds, and other substances were determined. Their peak expiratory flow was measured. Symptom questionnaires were administered pre-shift, every two hours during the shift and post-shift to exposed and non-exposed workers. Strong associations were observed between irritant symptoms and TP and BSP exposures, even at concentrations below 0.5mg/m3. Other findings are discussed. (107432)
CIS 07-1318 Rechallenging subjects with occupational asthma due to toluene diisocyanate (TDI), after long-term removal from exposure. Pisati G., Baruffini A., Bernabeo F., Cerri S., Mangili A., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2007, Vol.80, No.4, p.298-305. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: The aims of this study were to determine whether toluene diisocyanate (TDI) bronchial hyperresponsiveness persists in subjects with occupational asthma after long cessation of exposure and whether evolution of specific bronchial TDI sensitization and symptoms and functional abnormalities of asthma were coincident, and to define the determinants at the time of diagnosis of patients' outcome. Twenty-five non-atopic spray painters with occupational asthma due to TDI were re-examined approximately five years after removal from exposure. Tests included spirometry, methacholine challenge and TDI-specific IgE. Seven subjects were still TDI-reactors while 18 had lost reactivity to the substance, among whom however eight still retained some asthma features. This study demonstrates that airway sensitization to TDI and symptoms and functional airway abnormalities of asthma can persist for years after cessation of exposure. (107426)
CIS 07-1319 Respiratory complaints and high sensitization rate at a rennet-producing plant. Jensen A., Dahl S., Sherson D., Sommer B., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 2006, Vol.49, No.10, p.858-861. Illus. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: Workers in a rennet producing plant reported airway symptoms, mainly rhinitis. Rennet was produced as fluid and powder with proteolytic enzymes as the active component. Data on airway symptoms and known allergies were collected and prick tests with the rennet types produced in the plant and standard allergens were carried out on 35 exposed employees. An identical prick test was carried out on 28 unexposed controls. Twenty-one employees had hay fever-like symptoms, including 10 mainly at work. Nine had mild to moderate asthma-like symptoms, including six mainly at work. Fourteen had a positive prick test to one or more rennets. The sensitization rate was highest among employees with regular contact to rennet powder. (107438)
CIS 07-1320 Intervention implementation research: An exploratory study of reduction strategies for occupational contact dermatitis in the printing industry. Brown T.P., Rushton L., Williams H.C., English J.S.C., Contact Dermatitis, Jan. 2007, Vol.56, No.1, p.16-20. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to evaluate four risk reduction strategies for occupationally caused dermatitis in the printing sector: the provision of skin checks plus treatment advice; provision of gloves of the correct type and size plus use of an after-work cream; information highlighting the problem of occupational dermatitis; development of a best practice skin care policy. The strategies were evaluated over three months in two printing shops. While all interventions were found to be acceptable to some extent, no single intervention was completely effective. The most practical prevention measure was the regular use of gloves of the correct type and size. (107285)
CIS 07-1321 Industrial Pseudomonas folliculitis. Hewitt D.J., Weeks D.A., Millner G.C., Huss R.G., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Nov. 2006, Vol.49, No.11, p.895-899. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Following complaints of poor water quality and skin rashes among workers at a United States cardboard manufacturing facility, an investigation was carried out to determine potential causes. Employees were interviewed regarding work duties and health symptoms. Areas of dermatitis in affected employees were visually examined. Water samples were collected and tested for potential chemical and microbial contaminants. Twenty-seven employees were identified with complaints of recent skin rashes affecting primarily the upper and lower extremities. Dermatitis complaints were associated with water contact and work in areas with poor water quality. Water testing showed high levels of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Other tested substances were not at levels of concern. Overgrowth of P. aeruginosa occurred in the water system shortly after the facility switched to a closed-loop water recycling system and was the most likely cause of the observed dermatitis. (107439)
CIS 07-1322 Effects of external violence on musculoskeletal disorders among cashiers in stores selling mainly food in Ile-de France. (French: Effets des violences externes sur les troubles musculosquelettiques chez les hôtes et hôtesses de caisse dans la distribution à prédominance alimentaire en Ile-de-France) Alcouffe J., Bouchet H., Chaney C., Le Pache J., Manillier P., Montéléon P.Y., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2007, Vol.47, No.2, p.129-138. 5 ref. (In French) Internet: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of external violence on the occurrence of musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) among supermarket cashiers, and to identify the factors that could possibly reduce this impact. It was carried out in 2006 in the form of a cross-sectional survey of supermarket cashiers in the Ile-de-France region of France by means of a questionnaire. 818 responses were received from 111 shops employing 2425 cashiers. The majority (86.4%) of the respondents were women. Nearly all respondants (95.5%) reported suffering from MSDs. Regression analysis showed that stress is a key risk factor of MSDs. External violence was also found to be an important risk factor of stress. Correlations between various locations of MSDs and the frequency of unpleasant or violent incidents with customers were observed. (107409)
CIS 07-1323 Prevalence of building-related symptoms as an indicator of health and productivity. Niemelä R., Seppänen O., Korhonen P., Reijula K., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 2006, Vol.49, No.10, p.819-825. 37 ref. (In English) Internet: The prevalence of building-related symptoms (BRSs) is commonly used to characterize the indoor air quality in office buildings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between BRSs and productivity. A first step consisted of identifying published studies that measured simultaneously the prevalence or intensity of BRS and subjectively reported or objectively measured productivity. In addition, two office environments were evaluated, namely a call centre and in an insurance office, in which productivity was assessed using several metrics. The review of 23 studies suggests that a linkage exists between typical BRS and productivity indicators such as work performance or absence from work. Quantitative associations between BRS and productivity were further confirmed in two evaluated office environments. (107435)
CIS 07-1324 Risk factors and musculoskeletal complaints in non-specialized nurses, IC nurses, operation room nurses, and X-ray technologists. Bos E., Krol B., van der Star L., Groothoff J., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan. 2007, Vol.80, No.3, p.198-206. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: This cross-sectional study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence rates of musculoskeletal complaints of neck-shoulder and low back musculoskeletal complaints among hospital nurses, and to analyse the relationship between these complaints and various work-related risk factors. The study population consisted of 3169 nurses affiliated to eight university hospitals in the Netherlands. Subjects included non-specialized nurses, operation theatre nurses, intensive care nurses and X-ray technologists. Data were obtained by means of self-administered questionnaires and subjected to logistic regression analyses for all relevant risk factors. The overall prevalences of musculoskeletal complaints were 76% for low back pain and 60% for neck and shoulder pain. Operation theatre nurses reported more neck and shoulder complaints than non-specialized nurses, while intensive care nurses reported less severe low back complaints than non-specialized nurses. Other findings are discussed. (107483)
CIS 07-1325 Relationship between repetitive work and the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome in part-time and full-time female supermarket cashiers: A quasi-experimental study. Bonfiglioli R., Mattioli S., Fiorentini C., Graziosi F., Curti S., Violante F.S., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan. 2007, Vol.80, No.3, p.248-253. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this case-control study was to evaluate the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) among supermarket cashiers. Participants included 71 full-time and 155 part-time cashiers, together with 98 office workers as controls, all women, employed at four large supermarkets in Italy. Evaluations included job observations and clinical examinations, including clinician-administered questionnaires and a bilateral conduction study of the median nerve. Data were subjected to statistical evaluation. The prevalence of CTS symptoms was higher among full-time (31.0%) than part-time cashiers (19.3%) or controls (16.3%). Regression analyses confirmed the increased risk for CTS symptoms in full-time cashiers. (107484)
CIS 07-1326 Health and work. (Portuguese: Saúde e trabalho) de Sousa Uva A., Prista J., Sacadura Leite E., Galego M.J., Saúde & trabalho, 2003. No.4. 53p.(whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In Portuguese) Internet: Contents of this full issue: biological indicators for the medical surveillance of occupational exposure to chemical agents; occupational respiratory diseases in hospital settings; motivation and conditions of work in the marble industry; presentation of the Portuguese society of occupational medicine and its role in the development of occupational health. (107306)
CIS 07-1327 Evaluation of a participatory ergonomic intervention aimed at improving musculoskeletal health. Rivilis I., Cole D.C., Frazer M.B., Kerr M.S., Wells R.P., Ibrahim S., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 2006, Vol.49, No.10, p.801-810. Illus. 36 ref. (In English) Internet: Participatory ergonomic (PE) interventions have been increasingly used to deal with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD). This article describes a PE process launched at one depot of a large courier company, with a nearby depot serving as a control. Evaluations focused on 122 employees across the two depots who participated in both pre- and post-questionnaires. The evaluation consisted of assessing the process of implementation, changes in risk factors and changes in musculoskeletal health measures. Relationships were explored by means of partial and multiple regressions. Findings are discussed. It is concluded that a PE approach can improve risk factors related to WMSD, and meaningful worker participation in the process is an important aspect for the success of such interventions. (107434)
CIS 07-1328 Medical aspects of the accident investigation procedure. (French: Aspects médicaux de la procédure d'instruction après accident; German: Medizinische Aspekte im Rahmen des Abklärungsverfahrens nach Unfällen) Fuchs M., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, 2007, No.78, p.33-56. (In French, German) Internet: This article comments Swiss regulations that apply to the medical investigation procedure following an accident, in light of the most recent Swiss court rulings. Contents: legal directives and their application in medical practice (legal grounds and preliminary remarks, principles concerning treatment specified in accident insurance law, differences between medical treatment and medical examination, directives for the inquest and for establishing the facts, as well as for weighing the evidence, remarks concerning the medical evidence); quantitative data concerning accident insurance and the organization of medical services by the Swiss accident insurance institution (SUVA) and private insurance firms. (107401)
CIS 07-1329 Fit for life. Rogers M., Accident Prevention, Sep.-Oct. 2006, Vol.54, No.4, p.20-24. Illus. (In English) Internet: This article discusses the benefits of employer-managed health promotion programmes. Such programmes create competitive advantage by encouraging employees to remain fit and in good health. They include, for example, improving the physical and psychosocial work environments, anti-smoking campaigns, on-site gyms and flu vaccination, as well as information on healthy diets and lifestyles. Programmes implemented by several Canadian enterprises are cited as examples. (107271)
CIS 07-1330 Thumb strength and mobility in workers with de Quervain's disease: Evaluation and impact on hand performance. (French: Force et mobilité du pouce chez le travailleur avec une maladie de de Quervain - Evaluation et impact sur la performance de la main) Bourbonnais D., Piotte F., Forget N., Bestaven E., Harris P., Fournier K., Arsenault J., Bravo G., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal H3A 3C2, Quebec, Canada, 2007. ix, 55p. Illus. 54 ref. Price: CAD 8.48. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-118-7 (In French) Internet: De Quervain's tenosynovitis (DQT) is a form of wrist tendonitis that involves inflammation of the tendon sheath of certain thumb muscles. Its symptoms, namely significant pain as well as a reduction in thumb and wrist strength and flexibility, interfere with common activities. This condition, often associated with repetitive work and with a high risk of chronicity, is becoming increasingly common, particularly among workers in the meat packing and manufacturing industries. This case-control study involved evaluating the reliability of two new instruments for measuring the losses of thumb strength and wrist and hand flexibility. Participants included 30 subjects suffering from DQT and 18 healthy controls. It was concluded that these measurements constitute a quick and efficient means of diagnosing DQT. (107326)
CIS 07-1331 Initiative evaluation report - Back in work. Brown D., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. iv, 266p. Price: GBP 30.00., ISBN 0-7176-2377-7 (In English) Internet: The objective of the "Back in Work" initiative in the United Kingdom was to identify and develop innovative ideas to tackle backpain in the workplace, to develop good practice and to improve workplace health. This report provides a summary of the findings from the 18 pilot projects that comprised the initiative. More than 300 businesses and 2,700 employees were involved in the projects. Thirteen of the 18 projects involved small to medium sized enterprises, nine involved large enterprises and seven involved trade unions or local chambers of commerce. Lessons which emerged from the projects included the importance of early treatment, keeping active, adopting correct postures while working, using adjustable furniture, taking breaks from repetitive or prolonged tasks or postures, using lifting equipment where possible and providing information to employees on back care. (107331)
CIS 07-1332 Effective management of upper limb disorders by general practitioners and trainee occupational physicians. Crawford J.O., Laiou E., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. xii, 188p. Illus. 106 ref. Price: GBP 20.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-6158-X (In English) Internet: The research described in report was carried out to identify how health professionals could become more effective in the clinical management of cases of work-related upper limb disorders, to identify their training needs and to investigate discrepancies between current and best practice. Work involved reviewing literature, leading focus group sessions to develop a questionnaire with experienced and trainee occupational physicians, conducting a questionnaire survey among general practitioners and trainee occupational physicians, and making recommendations for improvement. The recommendations include improving teaching of this topic at undergraduate level, improving the evidence base by better quality research, producing guidelines for best practice, ensuring that training is more accessible and examining the scope for computer-based training. (107340)
CIS 07-1333 Construction workers suffering from lumbar back pain - Evaluation of the implementation of an early collaboration rehabilitation programme. (French: Travailleurs de la construction ayant une dorso-lombalgie - Evaluation de l'implantation d'un programme de collaboration précoce en réadaptation) Durand M.J., Berthelette D., Loisel P., Beaudet J., Imbeau D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal H3A 3C2, Quebec, Canada, 2007.vi, 92p. Illus. 129 ref. Price: CAD 10.60. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-110-1 (In French) Internet: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of a participatory programme aimed at the rehabilitation of workers suffering from low back pain in the construction industry in Quebec. It involved 29 workers suffering from low back pain. Data were collected by means of questionnaires, interviews and medical examinations. Rehabilitation interventions aimed at workers suffering from low back pain were found to constitute a complex problem. For such interventions to be effective, it is necessary to act simultaneously at several levels. Various research projects are proposed for improving the efficiency of rehabilitation interventions in occupational settings. (107325)
CIS 07-1334 Derivation of baseline data for incidence of skin disease amongst printers. Brown T., Rushton L., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. iv, 19p. Illus. 15 ref. Price: GBP 10.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-6149-0 (In English) Internet: An objective of the Health and Safety Executive is to reduce the incidence of work-related skin disease by 2010, measured against an incidence rate for the year 2000. A previous study on the prevalence of dermatitis in the printing sector showed that current reporting schemes largely underestimate the true burden of the disease. The aim of the current study was to re-examine the data collected by this previous study using a questionnaire and to provide a new estimate of the incidence of occupational dermatitis among printers. This analysis resulted in an estimated incidence of 420 cases for 100,000 workers during 2000. (107265)
CIS 07-1335 Survey of use of occupational health support. Pilkington A., Graham M.K., Cowie H.A., Mulholland R.E., Dempsey S., Melrose A.S., Hutchinson P.A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. x, 130p. Illus. 13 ref. Price: GBP 20.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2394-7 (In English) Internet: The objectives of the study described in this report were to estimate the proportion of employers who use occupational health support services in the United Kingdom and to provide a breakdown of results by company size, sector, region and the type of occupational health support provided. It involved phone interviews with a random sample of 4950 enterprises, followed by face-to-face interviews with selected enterprises. Findings are discussed. An estimated two million workers suffer from occupational diseases. Many are employed in small and medium sized enterprises, where there is often no workplace access to occupational health support. Despite several campaigns, many employers in these enterprises remain unaware of long-term risks to health in the workplace and the need to take a practical proactive approach to prevention. (107332)
CIS 07-1336 Workplace health promotion in Europe - The role of national health policies and strategies. Hämäläinen R.M., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2007. 204p. Illus. 220 ref. Price: EUR 31.00., ISBN 978-951-802-739-6 (In English) Internet: Workplace Health Promotion (WHP) is a concept that includes all the processes and structures in an organization that are directed at improving and developing the work environment in order to optimize workers' health, work ability and well-being. This report discusses the context, policies and strategies, participants and processes of WHP in the various European countries and addresses the issue of how workers' health can be influenced through policy-making and decision-making. (107297)
CIS 07-1337 Health and social impacts of tobacco production. Arcury T.A., Quandt S.A., Journal of Agromedicine, 2006, Vol.11, No.3/4, p.71-81. 61 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this literature survey was to summarize current knowledge about the health and social consequences of tobacco production and to outline research needed to better understand these effects. The health effects of tobacco production include nicotine poisoning (green tobacco sickness), pesticide poisoning, respiratory effects, musculoskeletal and other injuries. Most research has focused on nicotine poisoning. Further research is needed on the effects of tobacco work on the health of women and children exposed to nicotine and pesticides, the effects of chronic nicotine exposure on all tobacco workers, the neurotoxic effects of pesticide exposure and its relationship with mental health, and the effects of growing tobacco on using tobacco. Greater effort is needed to document the social disruption in communities that are economically dependent on tobacco production, particularly those in developing countries. (107399)
CIS 07-1338 Construction site waste - From onsite sorting to the processing centres. (French: Déchets de chantier - Du tri sur site aux centres de traitement) Sagot F., Prévention BTP, July-Aug. 2007, No.98, p.28-29. Illus. (In French) Internet: From 1 July 2002, only inert waste that cannot be further treated or usefully converted is accepted in landfills in France. As a consequence, construction enterprises need to limit their production of waste and resort to on-site sorting in order to lower the cost of landfilling. This article presents an example of how to organize waste streams on a construction site. (107405)
CIS 07-1339 Sustainable development and occupational safety and health. (French: Développement durable et prévention) Waché O., Prévention BTP, July-Aug. 2007, No.98, p.36-47. Illus. (In French) Internet: This collection of articles covers the topic of sustainable development in the construction sector. Topics addressed include: sorting of waste on construction sites; use of environmentally-friendly products and construction materials; construction materials made from natural products (wood, clay bricks, insulation made from hemp); safety in waste sorting and recycling operations. (107406)
CIS 07-1340 Fatal work-related injuries in the agriculture production sector among youth in the United States, 1992-2002. Hard D.L., Myers J.R., Journal of Agromedicine, 2006, Vol.11, No.2, p.57-65. Illus. 26 ref. (In English) Internet: Youth working on farms face unique risks that are not present for many other young workers, including machinery, large animals, electrical hazards, chemical hazards and excessive noise. This research identified the number and rate of occupational fatalities for youth working in agriculture in the United States for the years 1992-2002. Data were obtained from the Bureau of Labour Statistics. During this period, there were 310 work-related deaths to youth less than 20 years of age. This compares to 1,958 total fatalities for all workers less than 20 years of age for the same time period. The number of fatalities to youth in agriculture has shown a general downward trend over this time period. The rates were nonetheless higher for young workers in agriculture than for young workers in all industries by a factor of 3.6. Fifteen-year olds had the highest fatality rates with the crop production sector having a rate six times that of all 15-year old workers. (107276)
CIS 07-1341 Causes of mortality and risk factors for injury mortality among children in the Agricultural Health Study. Flower K.B., Hoppin J.A., Shore D.L., Lynch C.F., Blair A., Knott C., Alavanja M.C.R., Sandler D.P., Journal of Agromedicine, 2006, Vol.11, No.3/4, p.47-59. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: Within the framework of the Agricultural Health Study (AHS) cohort, this study examined the causes of mortality among 21,360 children in Iowa and North Carolina between 1975 and 1998. Information for children provided by mothers on self-administered questionnaires was matched to state death registry data. Data on farm and family characteristics were provided by parents in cohort enrolment questionnaires. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated, using state mortality data to generate expected deaths. Logistic regression was used to examine parent, child and farm characteristics associated with injury mortality. Findings are discussed. (107398)
CIS 07-1342 Workers' compensation experience of Colorado agriculture workers, 2000-2004. Douphrate D.I., Rosencrance J.C., Wahl G., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Nov. 2006, Vol.49, No.11, p.900-910. 43 ref. (In English) Internet: This study analysed workers' compensation claims data for non fatal injuries among agriculture and agri-business workers in the State of Colorado between the years of 2000 and 2004. High rates of injury claims were found, especially in sectors that involve interaction with animals or livestock. Grain milling operations had a high rate of injury claims among agri-business operations. Injuries related to animals, strains, machinery, falls or slips were the most frequent among all occupations analysed. The development of safety interventions that address the worker-animal interface, fall protection systems, machinery usage and overexertion prevention are recommended. (107440)
CIS 07-1343 Analysis of accident inequality of the Spanish fishing fleet. Perez-Labajos C., Azofra M., Blanco B., Achutegui J., González J., Accident Analysis and Prevention, 2006, Vol.38, No.6, p.1168-1175. Illus. 45 ref. (In English) Internet: Safety is a vital factor in the running of a country's fishing sector. However, the planning of the necessary resources and their adequate distribution according to the sector's needs are only possible if detailed information is available on the distribution in the frequency of accidents within the sector. In this context, the aim of this study was two-fold: firstly, to formalise a methodology for the fishing sector of a country which allows the differences in the frequency of accidents to be analysed; and secondly, to apply this methodology to the Spanish fishing fleet for the period 1994-2002. Using the methodology, indices were built by regions and by types of vessel for two variables: fishermen and vessels. Findings are discussed. (107480)
CIS 07-1344 Occupational hazards during the production of pharmaceuticals: Analysis of an industry located in northeastern Brazil. (Portuguese: Riscos ocupacionais na fabricação de medicamentos: análise de uma indústria localizada no Nordeste brasileiro) Barbosa de Alencar J.R., Revista brasileira de saúde ocupacional, 2005, Vol.30, No.112, p.49-67. Illus. 31 ref. (In Portuguese) Internet: Pharmaceutical production is a complex industrial process that demands high levels of investment in development, production equipment, quality control and staff training. Paradoxically, in spite of being a sector that deals uses modern technology and the requirements of good manufacturing practices (GMP), the pharmaceuticals industry is a source of several risks to workers' health and the environment. This article presents the findings of a study on occupational hazards carried out internally by the safety and health committee of a pharmaceutical company located in northeastern Brazil. (107310)
CIS 07-1345 Attributes of occupational injury among workers in the chemical industry and safety issues. Khan M.M.A., Halim Z.I., Iqbal M., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.3, p.327-341. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: Case-study research was carried out with a view to find the attributes of occupational injury among workers in the chemical industry of Bangladesh and to enhance safety issues. Injury data were collected and processed in terms of different variables, such as age, gender, skills, type of hazard, etc. Pareto analysis was then applied to find a pattern of occupational injury among the workers. The study revealed that 79.52% of the injured workers were in the 40-59 age group; 57.14% of accidents occurred during the 1st shift; 73.26% of accidents caused injury to hands, feet, chest, thighs, arms or eyes; and 70.93% of injuries were caused by pumps, manual handling, vehicles, pipelines, valves, and grinding. Surprisingly, no one was injured in the group of temporary workers. Based on the findings, various actions for improvement are proposed. (107473)
CIS 07-1346 Fishmongers through the ages. (French: Poissonniers d'hier et d'aujourd'hui) Bouchet H., Castel S., Chaney C., Mzabi M.I., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2007, Vol.47, No.2, p.117-127. 8 ref. + Insert 2p. (In French) Internet: The job of fishmonger has much evolved through the centuries, as have the methods used for fishing and transporting fish (including the rapid growth in deep freezing on-board fishing vessels). Today, fishmongers work in small fish shops, in medium and large supermarket chains, on markets, in industrial enterprises, at wholesalers, at caterers or in traditional restaurants. In this occupation, occupational accidents and diseases can have multiple effects on the operations of the enterprise. The main hazards include osteo-articular injuries due to occupational accidents (falls, incorrect manual handling) or repetitive work, skin injuries and diseases (cuts, burns, contact dermatitis, warts) and cardiovascular diseases due to prolonged exposure to cold working environments. An occupational information sheet on the job of fishmonger is included as an insert. (107408)
CIS 07-1347 Multiple interactions of hazard exposures, role stressors and situational factors, and burnout among nurses. Lu J.L., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.73-82. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: This cross-sectional study investigated the interaction between situational factors, role stressors, hazard exposure and personal factors among 135 nurses in a hospital in the Philippines. Data were collected by means of questionnaires. More than half (58.5%) of the respondents reported being ill due to work in the past year, and 59.3% missed work because of an illness. Regression analysis showed that factors associated with burnout were role stress, hazard exposure, self-efficacy, age, number of working years, illness in the past 12 months, migraine, dizziness, sleep disorder, cough and colds, and diarrhoea. After multiple regression analysis, organizational role stress, migraine, age and illness in the past 12 months were found to be significant predictors of burnout. (107413)
CIS 07-1348 Safety climate in university and college laboratories: Impact of organizational and individual factors. Wu T.C., Liu C.W., Lu M.C., Journal of Safety Research, 2007, Vol.38, No.1, p.91-102. Illus. 44 ref. (In English) Internet: Various earlier studies have suggested that safety climate surveys may be useful for measuring the effectiveness and improvement direction of safety programs. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of organizational and individual factors on safety climate in university laboratories. Employees exposed to laboratory work (faculty staff, laboratory assistants, janitors) at 100 universities in Taiwan were mailed a self-administered questionnaire. Multivariate analysis revealed that the type of university (public or private), presence or otherwise of a safety manager and safety committee, gender, age, title, accident experience and safety training significantly affected the perception of safety climate. (107287)
CIS 07-1349 Mines rescue arrangements: Future options. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. vii, 66p. Illus. Price: GBP 15.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2515-X (In English) Internet: The objective of the work described in this report was to examine alternative structures for the provision of mine rescue arrangements in the United Kingdom and to assess their relative merits against credible scenarios for the future of the coal mining sector. It involved face-to-face interviews with various government bodies and with all the coal mining enterprises currently operating in the country. Findings are discussed. Topics addressed: current rescue provisions in the United Kingdom; financial income of the Mines Rescue Service Limited (MRSL); views of mine owners and of MRSL staff; potential effects of future changes in United Kingdom coal production; summary position of mines rescue in the United Kingdom; mines rescue organizations in other countries; other rescue organizations in the United Kingdom; potential future options; conclusions and recommendations. (107335)
CIS 07-1350 Mapping health hazards and risks across aspects of the construction process. Pilkington A., Donaldson J., Groat S., Cowie H.A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. viii, 95p. 12 ref. Price: GBP 15.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2397-1 (In English) Internet: This report reviews the current state of knowledge of occupational health issues within a sample of companies from the construction industry in the United Kingdom, and evaluates the feasibility of applying the COSHH Essentials approach (CIS 00-675) in the construction industry. It also considers a structured approach to mapping health hazards across the construction process. The survey included twelve companies involved in a range of construction processes. The results of the study indicate that there is a broad range of risks to health associated with the observed construction processes. All of the sites visited had only limited controls in place in relation to the hazards observed. Other findings are discussed. (107334)
CIS 07-1351 Analysis of Construction Fatalities - The OSHA data base 1985-1989. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 1990. ix, 76p. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: This report presents the results of an analysis of the 3,496 construction fatalities investigated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and included in OSHA's integrated management information system data base for the period 1985 to 1989. The analysis considered the variation of the number of fatalities over the five-year period and the influence of factors such as geography and characteristics of the workforce, including industry group, age and union affiliation on these fatality statistics. The analysis also examined the causes of fatalities and the factors influencing accidents. Statistics from the OSHA data base are compared with construction fatality data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and the National Safety Council. (107455)
CIS 07-1352 Medical handbook for seafarers. Saarni H., Niemi L., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2007. 213p. Illus. Index. Price: EUR 39.00., ISBN 978-951-802-743-3 (In English) Internet: This handbook provides instructions on the medical first aid and treatment required on board ships until the patient has either recovered or is transported to land for more suitable treatment. It helps persons responsible for medical treatment on board decide on the best course of action, including when to consult a doctor by radio or when to urgently have the patient transported to land for medical treatment. (107295)
CIS 07-1353 The impact of global food chains on employment in the food and drink sector. (French: L'impact des filières alimentaires mondiales sur l'emploi dans le secteur des produits alimentaires et des boissons; Spanish: La incidencia de las cadenas mundiales de alimentación en el empleo en el sector de alimentación y bebidas) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. iii, 28p. Illus., ISBN 978-92-2-119630-3 (En), ISBN 978-92-2-219630-2 (fr), ISBN 978-92-2-319630-1 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This report was prepared as a basis for discussion at a tripartite meeting on the impact of global food chains on employment in the food and drink sector held in Geneva, Switzerland, 24-27 September 2007. The research that has led to the preparation of this report, apart from providing indications on employment trends around the world in the food and drink industry, has brought to the fore certain social and labour issues arising from the globalization of food chains, such as the rise of retailers as they gain more control over global supply chains as well as consumer information. It raises other questions such as further company concentration which in turn has repercussions at the level of processors, manufacturers and seed suppliers, who cluster even further to supply mass-produced, uniform products at margins acceptable to such firms. Farms, in turn, will need to grow larger to meet the demand for raw materials in mass quantities at lower prices, disempowering smaller, independent farmers. More and more consumers are adopting a posture of resistance to the dictates of food conglomerates and their control over consumer choices. All these developments together require analysis and pro-active measures to safeguard employment and decent work in the sector. (107495)
CIS 07-1354 The production of electronic components for the IT industries: Changing labour force requirements in a global economy. (French: La production des composants électroniques pour les industries des technologies de l'information: évolution des besoins de main-d'œuvre dans une économie mondialisée; Spanish: La fabricación de componentes electrónicos para las industrias de las tecnologías de la información: El cambio de las necesidades con respecto a la mano de obra en una economía mundializada) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. xii, 119p. Illus. Price: CHF 15.00., ISBN 978-92-2-119459-0 (En), ISBN 978-92-2-219459-9 (fr), ISBN 978-92-2-319459-8 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This report was prepared as a basis for discussion at a tripartite meeting on emerging labour and social issues in the electronic components manufacturing sector held in Geneva, Switzerland, 16-18 April 2007. Spectacular growth and investment in the electronic components industry, which manufactures the worlds chips, semi-conductors, cell phones, music players and computers, has generated millions of jobs and spawned billions of dollars in investment, much of it developing and emerging economics, especially in Asia. However, the report argues that this growth has also spawned a considerable number of social and labour challenges, including concerns over working conditions, wage levels, gender issues and management-labour relations. (107496)
CIS 07-1355 IPEC action against child labour - Highlights 2006. (French: L'action de l'IPEC contre le travail des enfants - Faits marquants 2006; Spanish: La acción del IPC contra el trabajo infantil - Hechos sobresalientes 2006) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2006. xii, 88p. Illus., ISBN 92-2-119263-6 (En), ISBN 92-2-219263-X (fr), ISBN 92-2-319263-3 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: This report of the ILO's International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC) for the biennium 2006-07 reviews the current state of knowledge on child labour and summarizes IPEC's response to the problem and its strategies to assist ILO member States for its prevention and elimination. It also highlights the Programme's many partnerships and assesses the progress being made towards meeting the ILO's Programme and budget target for child labour. Finally, it reviews trends in IPEC's technical cooperation, advisory services and programme management. (107270)
CIS 07-1356 Managing health and safety in construction - Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Feb. 2002. vi, 121p. 8 ref. Price: GBP 15.00., ISBN 978-0-7176-6223-4 (In English) This Approved Code of Practice provides guidance on complying with the duties set out in the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 (CDM 2007), which came into force on 6 April 2007. It is an update of the version analysed under CIS 01-1732. The key aims of CDM 2007 are to integrate health and safety into the management of the project, to encourage all parties involved to work together to improve the planning and management of projects, to identify risks early on, to target effort where it can do the most good in terms of health and safety and to discourage unnecessary bureaucracy. (107299)
CIS 07-1357 Working as a domestic helper. (Dutch: Werken in de gezinszorg; French: Travailler comme aide familiale à domicile) Service public fédéral Emploi, travail et concertation sociale, rue Ernest Blériot 1, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium, Sep. 2006. 32p. Illus. 5 ref. (In Dutch, French) Internet: This booklet summarizes the main findings of a detailed survey on domestic help services in Belgium, addressing the issues of the conditions of work, the general policies of these services and their organization. Data obtained by means of questionnaires were completed through interviews of some fifteen domestic helpers. Workshops were also held on daily problems faced by these workers and measures worth implementing. This work enabled the identification of useful tools, the development of a hazard evaluation method allowing the implementation of improved occupational safety and health measures and the designing of training programmes aimed at preventing backache. (107322)
CIS 07-1358 Guidance from the Licensing Authority on the Adventure Activities Licensing Regulations 2004 - The Activity Centres (Young Persons' Safety) Act 1995. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Aug. 2007. vi, 46p. 12 ref. Price: GBP 11.50., ISBN 978-0-7176-6243-2 (In English) Internet: This booklet provides guidance on how to comply with the United Kingdom Adventure Activities Licensing Regulations 2004 concerning activity centres as defined by the Activity Centres (Young Persons' Safety) Act 1995. Activities within the scope of the licensing scheme include caving, climbing, trekking and water sports. Contents: outline of the licensing scheme; guidance on safety standards; guidance on the licensing authority's functions. Appendices include requirements with respect to technical competence and qualifications, together with the full text of the Adventure Activities Licensing Regulations 2004. (107492)
CIS 07-1359 Fairgrounds and amusement parks - Guidance on safe practice. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2007. vi, 65p. Illus. 48 ref. Price: GBP 12.50., ISBN 978-0-7176-6249-4 (In English) Internet: Although fairgrounds and amusement parks are relatively safe compared to activities such as driving a car or riding a bicycle, there have yet been a small number of serious incidents involving employees and members of the public. The Health and Safety Executive has worked with the Fairgrounds and Amusement Parks Joint Advisory Committee to improve standards and to produce this revised guide which incorporates improvements made over several years in this industry's practices. It deals with the safety of employers, employees and the general public using fairgrounds and amusement parks and gives advice on controlling risks, site layout and safe systems of work. It also provides information and guidance on fairground ride design, manufacture, installation, operation, maintenance and inspection. Replaces CIS 01-715. (107493)
CIS 07-1360 Shipbreaking - What can be done?. (French: Démolition des navires: Comment gérer le problème?) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2006. DVD ( PAL format). Price: CHF 40.00., ISBN 978-92-2-018790-6 (In English, French) Internet: This DVD contains the documentary "The shipbreakers" as well as the text of the ILO's "Safety and health guidelines in shipbreaking: Guidelines for Asian countries and Turkey" in PDF format in English, French, Spanish, Bengali, Chinese, Hindi, Urdu and Turkish. (107388)
CIS 07-1361 Improving working conditions in the Haitian assembly industry - Project HAI/99/M01/USA. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, [c2004]. CD-ROM containing documents in PowerPoint, PDF and HTML formats. (In English) Internet: This project launched in 1999 was aimed at improving working conditions in the export-oriented Haitian garment sector, thereby meeting United States buyers' requirements regarding compliance with minimum standards of working conditions, safety and health, increasing the attractiveness of the country to investors, creating employment, boosting exports and earning foreign exchange. This CD-ROM presents the main achievements of the project. Contents: short commentaries of background, project achievements and acknowledgements; enterprise-level training materials; training needs analysis; reports of international consultants; social dialogue and working conditions. (107386)
CIS 07-1362 Safety by design based on a workshop of the new technology and work network. Hale A., Kirwan B., Kjellén U., eds., Safety Science, Jan.-Feb. 2007, Vol.45, No.1-2, p.1-327 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Topics addressed in this full issue on safety by design: liability and its influence on designing for product and process safety; contribution of faulty design to accidents; statistics of design error in process industries; design error in process plant design; safety in the design of off-shore platforms; safety by design knowledge transfer from one industry to another; safety in the design of printing machinery, traffic, gas lamps and medical equipment; psychology applied to design processes; future trends. (107481)
CIS 07-1363 Minutes of the public hearing of 7 November 2006 on nanotechnology: Potential hazards, ethical issues. (French: Compte rendu de l'audition publique du 7 novembre 2006 sur les nanotechnologies: risques potentiels, enjeux éthiques) Birraux C., Revol H., La Documentation française, 29 quai Voltaire 75007 Paris, France, 2007. Internet document (pdf format), 137p. Free of charge. Cost of print version: EUR 5.00. (In French) Internet: The French parliamentary office for the evaluation of science and technology policy organized a public hearing on 7 November 2007 on the potential hazards end ethical issues related to nanotechnology. The hearing opened the way for some deeper thinking on the specific aspects of nanotechnology, the issues involved and the progress nanotechnology may make possible in the fields of health care, environmental protection, transport and safety. (107329)
CIS 07-1364 Nanotechnology. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2004. 4p. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: This information note is aimed at researchers and developers of nanotechnologies. It advises a precautionary approach to dealing with the largely still unknown hazards of nanotechnology. Contents: description of nanotechnology and nanomaterials; risk assessment; legislation (COSHH, see CIS 03-1023); scientific uncertainty; health risks; exposure potential; control measures; personal protective equipment; health monitoring; safety risks (catalytic effects, fire and explosion); management arrangements (work procedures, training, supervision, information of personnel). (107457)
CIS 07-1365 Integrating studies on carcinogenic risk of carbon black: Epidemiology, animal exposures, and mechanism of action. Valberg P.A., Long C.M., Sax S.N., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2006, Vol.48, No.12, p.1291-1307. 76 ref. (In English) Internet: In this literature survey on the toxicology of carbon black (CB), epidemiology and laboratory studies were reviewed from 1996, when IARC classified carbon black as a group 2B carcinogen (probably carcinogenic to humans). Findings are discussed. High levels of inhaled CB were linked with rat lung tumours in 1996, but today scientists increasingly recognize that rats exhibit a unique lung tumour response to all inert inhaled particles that is unlikely to be relevant to humans. Toxicity in rats results from the particle overload, and not from the particles' chemistry. Research published after 1996 has not identified an increase in support for CB cancer risk, but rather, points to limited and inadequate evidence for carcinogenicity. Overall, the new epidemiological evidence decreases concerns for cancer risk compared with pre-1996 evidence. (107254)
CIS 07-1366 Case study - Comparison of occupational exposures among painters using three alternative blasting abrasives. Mazzuckelli L.F., ed., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Sep. 2006, Vol.3, No.9, p.D80-D84. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: This article presents the results of a comparison between specular hematite and other commonly-used blasting abrasives used by painters, namely coal slag and steel grit. Worker exposure monitoring was carried out over three consecutive summers on footbridge repainting projects in New Jersey. Personal breathing air samples were taken during blasting operations and analysed. All methods performed well in the removal of paint. All three abrasives created elevated exposures to lead, respirable silica and cadmium. Of particular concern is the presence of beryllium associated with the use of coal slag. Other findings are discussed. Specular hematite was found to be associated with lower concentrations of silica and heavy metals when compared to sand and metal abrasives, respectively. However, engineering controls such as local exhaust ventilation and hygiene measures such as showers are recommended in all cases. (107255)
CIS 07-1367 Chemical safety. Meredith T., Baichoo P., Dardelin B., Krueger J., Lekei E.E., Ngowi A.V.E., Rees D., Murray J., Swanepoel A., Nogueira C., Kayumba A.V., Mlingi L.B., Wilson L., Jepsen J.R., Limborg H.J., Christiansen J.U., African Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Dec. 2006, Vol.16, No.3, p.51-63 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Collection of articles on chemical safety and other occupational safety and health topics of relevance to African countries. Contents: ILO activities in the area of chemical safety; self-reports of pesticide exposure and health effects among workers in a coffee plantation in Tanzania; actions aimed at reducing silicosis and silica exposure in South Africa; survey on occupational safety and health service needs in Tanzania. (107263)
CIS 07-1368 Asbestos consumption, asbestos exposure and asbestos-related occupational diseases in Germany. Hagemeyer O., Otten H., Kraus T., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 2006, Vol.79, No.8, p.613-620. Illus. 48 ref. (In English) Internet: As in most industrial countries, asbestos is a leading cause of occupational diseases, especially malignant diseases, in Germany. Following the increased consumption of asbestos after World War I, the recognition of asbestos related diseases developed. At the end of the 1930s, Germany was the first country to accept lung cancer in combination with asbestosis as an occupational disease and to initiate the endeavour for reduction of asbestos dust exposure. Nevertheless, after World War II asbestos use increased dramatically in the country. The ban on asbestos came into force in 1993. Until then, several hundreds of thousands of workers had inhaled asbestos and the number of asbestos-related diseases increased. In this review, the history and current status on asbestos consumption, asbestos exposure and asbestos related occupational diseases in Germany is presented. (107272)
CIS 07-1369 Biological monitoring of exposure to 1,5-naphthalene diisocyanate and 4,4'-methylenediphenyl diisocyanate. Sennbro C.J., Lindh C.H., Mattsson C., Jönsson B.A.G., Tinnerberg H., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 2006, Vol.79, No.8, p.647-653. Illus. 28 ref. (In English) Internet: Biological monitoring of exposure to occupational sensitizers, such as 1,5-naphthalene diisocyanate (NDI) and 4,4'-methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) is of high importance. In this study, the breathing atmosphere exposure to NDI and MDI was monitored for 30 workers at four different plants. In parallel, urinary as well as blood plasma samples were collected. 1,5-naphthalenediamine (NDA) and 4,4'-methylenedianiline (MDA) in hydrolysed urine and plasma were evaluated as biomarkers of exposure to NDI and MDI, respectively, by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Air exposure to both MDI and NDI was correlated to their corresponding biomarkers, but with a large individual variation. (107274)
CIS 07-1370 Particulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and n-alkanes in recycled paper processing operations. Chalbot M.C., Vei I., Lykoudis S., Kavouras I.G., Journal of Hazardous Materials, Sep. 2006, Vol.137, No.2, p.742-751. Illus. 49 ref. (In English) Internet: The aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic fractions of dust collected in the vicinity of recycled paper processing operations were analysed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Total measured dust concentration (up to 8.73mg/m3) fluctuated substantially in the various steps of paper manufacture. Particulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) (from fluorene to benzo[g,h,i]perylene with mean concentrations from 3.8 to 41.4ng/m3) and the mixture of branched, cyclic and unsaturated hydrocarbons were measured in all samples, while n-alkanes from n-C220l to n-C27, were only observed in cutting and packaging areas (180.6 to 4297.9ng/m3). Total benzo[α]pyrene-equivalent concentrations of particulate PAHs, which varied from 323 up to 1104pg/m3, provided evidence that workers were exposed to high quantities of PAHs, posing a long-term threat to their health. (107279)
CIS 07-1371 Evaluation of workers' exposure to methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) in an automobile manufacturing company, Iran. Kakooei H., Shahtaheri S.J., Karbasi H.A., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.4, p.443-449. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this case-control study was to evaluate the inhalation exposure to methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) among 39 employees working in the window assembly unit of an automobile manufacturing company in Iran. Controls consisted of 117 unexposed workers in other departments of the plant. MDI was determined with a UV-VIS spectrophotometer at 590nm. Lung function was assessed with a digital spirometer. The average concentration of MDI in the window fixation and window glue workplaces were 34.53 and 27.37µg/m3, respectively, which were lower than the threshold limit value recommended by the ACGIH of 51µg/m3. However, there was a significantly higher frequency of respiratory symptoms and a significantly lower lung capacity in the exposed group compared to the unexposed group. (107417)
CIS 07-1372 Comparison between urinary o-cresol and toluene as biomarkers of toluene exposure. Fustinoni S., Mercadante R., Campo L., Scibetta L., Valla C., Consonni D., Foà V., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Jan. 2007, Vol.4, No.1, p.1-9. Illus. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: This case-control study compared urinary o-cresol (U-OC) and urinary toluene (U-TOL) as biomarkers of occupational exposure to toluene. One hundred healthy male rotogravure printing workers and 161 male and female control subjects unexposed to toluene were studied. Personal exposure to airborne toluene (TOL-A) during the shift was determined as a time weighted average. Simple analytical procedures based on solid phase micro-extraction followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis were applied to the determination of end-shift U-OC and U-TOL. Median TOL-A was 48mg/m3 in printers and 0.021mg/m3 in controls. U-OC was 0.185mg/g creatinine in printers and 0.027mg/g in controls. U-TOL was 7.6µg/L in printers and 0.140µg/L in controls. U-TOL was found to be a slightly more reliable biomarker to toluene exposure than U-OC. (107429)
CIS 07-1373 Toxicity evaluation for the broad area of the asbestos mine of northern Greece. Anastasiadou K., Gidarakos E., Journal of Hazardous Materials, Jan. 2007, Vol.139, No.1, p.9-18. Illus. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, the environmental quality of an open-air asbestos mine in northern Greece was evaluated over a twelve-year period (1993-2005) by measuring and monitoring the concentration of asbestos fibres in air, soil and water. Measurements were also made in nearby villages. The mine ceased operations in the year 2000. Concentrations of chrysotile asbestos were lower than in older measurements taken at the same sampling points during the operation of the mine, but were still found to be high. The results of this work have provided a reliable framework for estimating the risk of the mine to its surrounding environment and helped to determine a plan for the remediation of the site. In addition, mathematical models based on human and animal studies were used to estimate the probability of a person developing cancer from breathing air containing asbestos fibres in the wider vicinity of the mine in order to define appropriate procedures for evaluating asbestos-related risk. (107482)
CIS 07-1374 Differences in national legislation for the implementation of lead regulations included in the European directive for the protection of the health and safety of workers with occupational exposure to chemical agents (98/24/EC). Taylor A., Angerer J., Arnaud J., Claeys F., Kristiansen J., Mazzarrasa O., Menditto A., Patriarca M., Pineau A., Valkonen S., Weykamp C., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan. 2007, Vol.80, No.3, p.254-264. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: La Directive 98/24 du Conseil concernant la protection de la santé et de la sécurité des travailleurs contre les risques liés à des agents chimiques sur le lieu de travail (voir CIS 98-1094) renferme des dispositions relatives à la surveillance biologique et environnementale, avec mention spécifique de valeurs seuils et de mesures de surveillance médicale ayant force obligatoire pour les personnes exposées au plomb. Le but de cette étude était de comparer la manière dont la Directive a été mise en ¿uvre au niveau national dans les Etats Membres et de déterminer dans quelle mesure les travailleurs bénéficient de mesures de protection comparables. Des informations sur des aspects clés choisis ont été recueillies dans 14 pays de l'UE au moyen d'un questionnaire structuré. Les résultats indiquent que la protection des travailleurs contre le risque d'exposition au plomb est loin d'être uniforme. De telles disparités peuvent également avoir des conséquences sur les exigences définies au niveau national pour les laboratoires pratiquant les mesures de plombémie ou de plomb dans l'air. Dans l'intérêt d'une harmonisation au sein de l'UE, on devrait prêter plus d'attention à l'Annexe II de la Directive 98/24 et prendre en compte les propositions concernant l'abaissement des valeurs limites ayant force obligatoire pour le plomb. (107485)
CIS 07-1375 Exposure to beryllium and occurrence of lung cancer: A reexamination of findings from a nested case-control study. Levy P.S., Roth H.D., Deubner D.C., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2007, Vol.49, No.1, p.96-101. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: This study reanalyzed an earlier nested case-control study of beryllium and lung cancer in view of perceived weaknesses in analysis and study design that could have led to the elevated odds ratios obtained in the study. This reanalysis found no elevated odds ratios for any exposure variable. The conclusions differ from the earlier interpretation that the findings are due to a causal relationship between beryllium exposure and lung cancer. The alternative explanation is that they may be due to methodological problems that could have been controlled by closer matching of controls to cases. (107487)
CIS 07-1376 Feeling sleepy?. Bennett J., Safety and Health Practitioner, Jan. 2007, Vol.25, No.1, p.43-45. Illus. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: Sleepiness is often related to the build-up of exhaled carbon dioxide in work premises. This article discusses what carbon dioxide is, how it can affect work performance and how safety and health practitioners can act to reduce uncomfortable levels. Topics addressed: natural and mechanical ventilation of work premises; threshold limit value of 5000ppm (8h TWA) for carbon dioxide at the workplace defined by United Kingdom regulations; monitoring of carbon dioxide levels in workplace atmospheres. (107488)
CIS 07-1377 Occupational exposure to ethylene oxide during pregnancy and association with adverse reproductive outcomes. Gresie-Brusin D.F., Kielkowski D., Baker A., Channa K., Rees D., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, July 2007, Vol.80, No.7, p.559-565. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to investigate the association between exposure to ethylene oxide during pregnancy and adverse reproductive outcomes. The study population consisted of women working during 2004 at hospital sterilising units using ethylene oxide in a South African province. Data on the outcome of the pregnancy were gathered by means of questionnaires. Data on exposure to ethylene oxide during pregnancy was obtained from walk-through surveys, questionnaires and workplace atmosphere measurements. A total of 98 singleton pregnancies were analysed. Measurements of ethylene oxide showed that operators of sterilising units were potentially over-exposed. There was a significantly increased risk of spontaneous abortion (prevalence odds ratio POR 20.8) and pregnancy loss (POR 8.6) for women highly exposed to ethylene oxide compared to low exposed pregnancies. No associations were found between exposure to ethylene oxide and stillbirth. (107391)
CIS 07-1378 Proceedings of the Health Effects of Occupational Exposure to Emissions from Asphalt/Bitumen Symposium June 7-8, 2006, Dresden, Germany. Breysse P., Melius J., Carol C., eds., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 2007, Vol.4, Sup.1, p.1-248 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Proceedings of a symposium on the health effects of occupational exposure to emissions from asphalt held in Dresden, Germany, on 7-8 June 2006. A total of nineteen full papers and seven posters were accepted by the selection committee, with an emphasis on studies that contribute towards evaluating exposures and carcinogenic risks. (107400)
CIS 07-1379 Anaphylaxis and allergic contact urticaria from occupational airborne exposure to HBTU. Hannu T., Alanko K., Keskinen H., Occupational Medicine, 2006, No.56, p.430-433. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: This article describes a case of anaphylaxis and allergic contact urticaria from occupational airborne exposure to HBTU (o-benzotriazol-1-yl-tetramethyluronium hexafluorophosphate), which is a chemical used widely for solid and solution-phase peptide synthesis, in a laboratory technician. There have been previous reports of this chemical being been associated with occupational asthma, allergic contact urticaria and allergic contact dermatitis in individual cases, but not with anaphylaxis. The diagnosis was based on clinical symptoms, a positive skin prick test (SPT) and a positive skin provocation test to HBTU. The positive SPT indicates that the anaphylaxis reaction is IgE-mediated. Appropriate safety measures should be compulsory when handling HBTU, and if work-related symptoms develop, the possibility of anaphylaxis should be considered. (107445)
CIS 07-1380 Comparative study of breathable dust generated by basalt and gneiss during stone-crushing in the regions of Londrina and Curitiba, in the state of Paraná, and its impact on workers. (Portuguese: Estudo comparativo entre as poeiras respiráveis de basalto e gnaisse na produção de brita nas regiões de Londrina e Curitiba, no estado do Paraná, e sua influência para os trabalhadores) Rodrigues G.L., Mantovani L.E., Duarte U., Lopes K., Revista brasileira de saúde ocupacional, 2005, Vol.30, No.112, p.37-47. Illus. 30 ref. (In Portuguese) Internet: The purpose of this study was to analyse the basalt and gneiss dusts formed during stone-crushing operations in companies located in a Brazilian state. An individual sampling pump fitted with PVC filters was attached to the workers' lapel to collect the breathable particles, which were later analysed by X-ray diffraction; a chemical and morphological analysis was also performed. Breathable dust concentrations were high compared to the acceptable limits set by the environmental legislation. The rate of SiO2 for basalt ranged from 1.0 to 5.4% and was over 10% for gneiss. The rate of gneiss was 15% higher than the rate of basalt for particles ranging from 0.5 to 3.0µm, where particles are more irregular in shape and more fibrous. The study showed that gneiss-exposed workers are more prone to silicosis nodule formations (classical silicosis), while basalt is more conducive to mixed dust pneumoconiosis. (107309)
CIS 07-1381 Metalworking fluid mist occupational exposure limits: A discussion of alternative methods. Cohen H., White E.M., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Sep. 2006, Vol.3, No.9, p.501-507. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: Industrial users of metalworking fluids (MWFs) need to have guidance, such as an occupational exposure limit, to determine when either engineering or administrative controls must be implemented, or whether employees require personal protective equipment. The purpose of this article is to explore various approaches that might be taken to result either in a single or in multiple limits for exposures to MWFs and their components. Approaches such as control banding are discussed in terms of an alternative to the use of an occupational exposure limit (OEL). Since MWFs vary in composition and no single OEL is likely to be appropriate for all such fluids, control banding places all MWF operations into a single band using similar (if not identical) controls. OSHA has published a best practice manual on this topic, which incorporates information from the 1998 NIOSH MWF criteria document. (107256)
CIS 07-1382 Development of a job exposure matrix (JEM) for the textile industry in Shanghai, China. Wernli K.J., Astrakianakis G., Camp J.E., Ray R.M., Chang C.K., Li G.D., Thomas D.B., Chekoway H., Seixas N.S., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Oct. 2006, Vol.3, No.10, p.521-529. 20 ref. (In English) Internet: This article describes the work leading to the development and application of a job exposure matrix (JEM) for the Shanghai textile industry constructed along three axes: industry sector, textile process and hazardous agent. Thirty-five categories of dust, chemical and physical agents were assessed for 149 textile processes within nine industry sub-sectors: cotton, cotton/synthetic, cotton/other (nonsynthetic), wool, silk, synthetic, mineral fibres, other blends (such as wool/synthetic) and nonproduction. Work involved an a priori assessment of the textile process by a team of United States industrial hygienists, followed by an assessment of the prevalence of exposures by Chinese industrial hygienists in specific textile processes within the factory. The JEM was applied to assess exposures in an ongoing nested case-control study of cancer in women textile workers. Some findings are discussed. (107257)
CIS 07-1383 Diacetyl emissions and airborne dust from butter flavorings used in microwave popcorn production. Boylstein R., Piacitelli C., Grote A., Kanwal R., Kullman G., Kreiss K., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Oct. 2006, Vol.3, No.10, p.530-535. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: Occupational exposure to butter flavourings has been associated with chronic obstructive lung disease. Severe respiratory effects have been reported in rats exposed to butter flavouring vapours and to diacetyl, a diketone found in most butter flavourings. This study assessed diacetyl emissions and airborne dust levels from flavourings used by several microwave popcorn manufacturing companies. Samples of flavourings were heated to 50°C, and gas chromatography was used to measure the organic compounds emitted. Workplace air sampling was also conducted for diacetyl and for total and respirable dust during the mixing of flavourings with heated soybean oil. Powder flavourings were found to give off much lower diacetyl emissions than pastes or liquids. However, a substantial amount of the airborne dust generated by handling powder flavourings was respirable and could thus pose its own respiratory hazard. Companies that use butter flavourings should consider flavourings with lower diacetyl emissions and the use of ventilation and engineering controls to minimize exposures. Until controls are fully implemented, companies should institute the mandatory use of respirators for all exposed workers. (107258)
CIS 07-1384 Airborne contact dermatitis in gaitas (flageolets) constructors after exposure to sawdust of caviuna. Rojas-Hijazo B., Lezaun A., Hausen B.M., Segura N., Garcés M., Colás C., Contact Dermatitis, May 2007, Vol.56, No.5, p.274-277. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: Exposure to the sawdust of exotic wood can produce dermatitis on exposed body areas among woodworkers. The cases of seven patients who made musical instruments in Spain from caviuna vermelha, part of the rosewood family, are described. They developed dermatitis on exposed areas hours after they had begun to work with caviuna. Patch tests were performed using the European standard series, caviuna sawdust samples and a series of dalbergiones. Fifteen unexposed controls were also tested. Caviuna samples were analysed by thin-layer chromatography. Patch test with caviuna sawdust yielded positive reactions in all subjects. Five of the seven subjects reacted strongly to obtusaquinine and (R)-4-methoxy-dalbergione deriving from Dalbergia retusa but also to sensitizers present in other rosewoods. Other findings are discussed. (107261)
CIS 07-1385 Report of a workshop on environment and health: Air quality research needs in the EU 7th Framework Programme of Research, 15-16 January 2007. Baverstock S., Gennart J.P., King D., Money C., Phillips R., Taalman R., Urbanus J., CONCAWE, Boulevard du Souverain 165, 1160 Brussels, Belgium, May 2007. iv, 28p. + CD-ROM (In English) Internet: Report on a conference on air quality research needs held in Brussels, Belgium, on 15-16 January 2007, organized with the collaboration of the European Commission's Directorate General Research. The aims were to foster a multidisciplinary approach to identifying research needs, serve as a forum for international exchange and provide the opportunity for participants to reveal gaps in order to identify areas for future studies. Topics addressed included studies of the mortality and morbidity in the European population, the impact of traffic emissions on public health, elucidating the mechanisms of toxic action, development of toxicity screening tests and impact of particulate matter metrics on human health. The complete proceedings and conference materials are included in the accompanying CD-ROM in PDF format. (107264)
CIS 07-1386 Dermal absorption. Kielhorn J., Melching-Kolmuß S., Mangelsdorf I., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), eds., World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2006. xix, 197p. Illus. Approx. 500 ref. Price: CHF 40.00; USD 36.00 (CHF 28.00 in developing countries). Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-92-4-157235-4 (In English) Internet: Dermal (percutaneous, skin) absorption is a general term that describes the transport of chemicals from the outer surface of the skin into the skin and the circulatory system. Dermal absorption can occur from occupational, environmental or consumer skin exposure to chemicals, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. This criteria document presents an overview of dermal absorption and its consideration in the risk assessment of chemicals. It describes the methods available to assess dermal absorption, the significance of skin as a route of exposure and the interpretation of results of dermal absorption studies for risk assessment. In addition, it presents and discusses current research topics in the field of dermal absorption. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish are included. (107311)
CIS 07-1387 Elemental speciation in human health risk assessment. Apostoli P., Cornelis R., Duffus J., Hoet P., Lison D., Templeton D., Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), eds., World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2006. xviii, 238p. Illus. Approx. 700 ref. Index. Price: CHF 30.00; USD 27.00 (CHF 21.00 in developing countries). Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-92-4-157234-7 (In English) Internet: The purpose of this publication is to evaluate the importance of the speciation of metals in human health hazards and to provide guidance on carrying out risk assessment taking speciation into account. Aimed at risk assessors and regulators, it seeks to raise their awareness of the importance of speciation. Contents: scope and definitions; structural aspects of speciation; analytical techniques and methodology; bioaccessibility and bioavailability; toxicokinetics and biological monitoring; molecular and cellular mechanisms of metal toxicity; health effects. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish are included. (107312)
CIS 07-1388 Principles and methods for assessing autoimmunity associated with exposure to chemicals. Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2006. xxvi, 333p. Illus. Approx. 900 ref. Price: CHF 50.00; USD 45.00 (CHF 35.00 in developing countries). Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-92-4-157236-1 (In English) Internet: This criteria document series provides a framework for the evaluation of chemical risk factors in the development of autoimmune diseases. Topics addressed include a general introduction to autoimmune mechanisms, clinical expression of autoimmune diseases, mechanisms of chemical-associated autoimmune responses, information on various chemical and other agents, animal models and human testing for autoimmune disease and the application of information on chemicals in risk assessment of autoimmune diseases. Detailed summaries in French and Spanish are included. (107313)
CIS 07-1389 Plant protection chemicals: Acute poisonings and occupational hazards. (French: Produits phytosanitaires: intoxications aiguës et risques professionnels) Testud F., Grillet J.P., Editions ESKA, 12 rue du Quatre-Septembre, 75002 Paris, France, 2007. 432p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: EUR 120.00., ISBN 978-2-7472-1145-2 (In French) Internet: This publication is primarily aimed at occupational health physicians involved in the evaluation, prevention and surveillance of hazards resulting from exposure to plant protection chemicals. It is also aimed at clinicians, emergency services and coroners having to deal with cases of acute and chronic pesticide poisoning. It includes an up-to-date summary of toxicological data for the most common active substances used in French agriculture. Based on an analysis of medical literature, it provides guidance for optimizing both the treatment of poisoning patients and the realistic evaluation of the hazards faced by workers exposed to agricultural chemicals. (107324)
CIS 07-1390 Evaluating the effectiveness of legislation, technology and working methods for reducing occupational exposure in the foundry industry. Wells D., Greenall A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. vi, 91p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: GBP 25.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-6151-2 (In English) Internet: This project was designed to exploit the wealth of historical dust, fume and gas occupational exposure data in the foundry industry of the United Kingdom, available in the archives of a foundry technology research organization. Over 50,000 data points were extracted from archived reports and transferred to an electronically-analyzable database to provide an insight into the effects of legislation, sector guidance, technology and working methods on the reduction of occupational exposure in the foundry industry. The results confirmed that United Kingdom legislation including the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH, see CIS 03-1023) together with industry efforts had profound beneficial effects on exposure. (107266)
CIS 07-1391 Ventilation installation records. (French: Le dossier d'installation de ventilation) Charreton M., Lacoste M., Millet M., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Apr. 2007. 20p. Illus. 21 ref. Price: EUR 5.20. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1446-0 (In French) Internet: French labour law on the ventilation and purification of work premises requires that employers to keep, and maintain current, records on the installation of each item of the ventilation system. One of the objectives of these regulations is to ensure that employers are familiar with the ventilation equipment from the time of its design, through the regular maintenance and inspection activities. Preparing the various parts of the installation records can sometimes be complex, which is why this guide has set out to transpose the legal requirements into practical terms. A true example of the compilation of an installation record is presented. The records are to be made available on demand to labour inspectors, to the competent social security agencies and to members of the hygiene, safety and working conditions committee of the enterprise. (107410)
CIS 07-1392 Carbon monoxide emissions by propane-fed fork-lifts - Technical guide for health and safety specialists (Revised version). (French: Monoxyde de carbone émis par les chariots au propane - Fiche technique pour les intervenants en santé au travail (version révisée)) Roberge B., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal H3A 3C2, Quebec, Canada, 2007. 9p. Illus. 5 ref. Price: CAD 3.96. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-114-9 (In French) Internet: Existing Canadian regulations do not require a preventive maintenance programme for propane-powered forklift trucks and do not specify optimal ventilation conditions for industrial premises where they are used. A study was undertaken to establish a uniform strategy for evaluating carbon monoxide (CO) emissions from propane-powered forklift trucks and to highlight the importance of regular engine maintenance. CO concentrations were determined in forklift truck exhaust gases and in the workers' breathing zones at several companies, and their relationship with various conditions of engine maintenance was analysed. The results of this study are summarized in this technical guide that provides industrial hygienists with a proper tool to evaluate CO emissions from propane-powered forklift trucks. (107328)
CIS 07-1393 Aldrin and dieldrin - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1989. 49p. Illus. 17 ref., ISBN 92-4-154343-4 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 91 (see CIS 90-1641). Contents: identity and uses of aldrin and dieldrin; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; international chemical safety card for use in the workplace; current regulations and guidelines. These organochlorine pesticides are highly toxic and act as stimulants of the central nervous system. Exposure is possible by ingestion, skin contact and inhalation of dust. (107341)
CIS 07-1394 Pyrrolizidine alkaloids - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1989. 19p. Illus., ISBN 92-4-154347-7 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 80 (see CIS 89-944). Contents: identity and use of pyrrolizidine alkaloids; effects on human health; risk evaluation; preventive measures and medical advice; current regulations and guidelines. The toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids form a large group of related compounds that occur in plants. Human health hazards include swelling of the abdomen and veno-occlusive disease, which may result in cirrhosis. (107342)
CIS 07-1395 Phosphine and selected metal phosphides - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1989. 34p. 10 ref., ISBN 92-4-154349-3 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 73 (see CIS 89-1320). Contents: identity and uses of phosphine and metal phosphides; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safe storage and use; environmental hazards; international chemical safety card for use in the workplace; current regulations and guidelines. Phosphine is a highly toxic gas; acute exposure at high concentrations is fatal. Effects on human health include pulmonary oedema, neurological abnormalities and gastrointestinal symptoms. (107344)
CIS 07-1396 Dimethyl sulfate - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1989. 29 p. 10 ref., ISBN 92-4-154350-7 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 48 (see CIS 86-124). Contents: identity and uses of dimethyl sulphate; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; international chemical safety card for use in the workplace; current regulations and guidelines. Diemthyl sulfate causes severe inflammation of the eyes, respiratory epithelium and skin. It is readily absorbed and produces toxic effects on the nervous system, heart, liver and kidneys. The substance is mutagenic and a suspected human carcinogen. (107345)
CIS 07-1397 Isobenzan - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 23p. Illus. 18 ref., ISBN 92-4-151061-7 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 129 (see CIS 92-945). Contents: identity and uses of isobenzan (telodrin); human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; current regulations and guidelines. Although no longer manufactured, this organochlorine insecticide may still be present in the original waste disposal sites or dredgings from contaminated sediments. The substance is highly toxic and very persistent in the environment. Health hazards include poisoning by skin contact or dust inhalation and eye irritation. (107346)
CIS 07-1398 Nickel, nickel carbonyl, and some nickel compounds - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 46p. 12 ref., ISBN 92-4-151062-5 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 108 (see CIS CIS 91-1949). Contents: identity and uses of nickel and nickel compounds; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safe storage and use; environmental hazards; summary of chemical safety information for use in the workplace; current regulations and guidelines. Target organs for nickel are the respiratory system, especially the nasal cavities and sinuses, and the immune system. Nickel and its salts are potent skin sensitizers and possible respiratory sensitizers. Nickel compounds are classified as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1) by the IARC and metallic nickel as possibly carcinogenic (Group 2B). Nickel carbonyl is the most acutely toxic nickel compound in humans. (107347)
CIS 07-1399 Aldicarb - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 29p. Illus. 8 ref., ISBN 92-4-151064-1 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 121 (see CIS 91-1955). Contents: identity and uses of aldicarb; 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. Aldicarb induces toxicity by cholinesterase inhibition. Poisoning may affect the respiratory and central nervous systems and may cause death. Nonfatal poisoning in humans is rapidly reversible and recovery is aided by the administration of atropine. (107348)
CIS 07-1400 Acrolein - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 28p. Illus. 22 ref., ISBN 92-4-151067-6 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 127 (see CIS 92-954). Contents: identity and uses of acrolein; 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. Skin and eye contact with acrolein causes chemical burns, redness and pain; inhalation causes severe irritation and, at high concentrations, inflammation and damage to the respiratory tract. (107349)
CIS 07-1401 Trimellitic anhydride - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1992. 30p. Illus. 15 ref., ISBN 92-4-151071-4 (In English) Internet: This document provides a hazard evaluation of trimellitic anhydride based on critical national reviews along with practical guidance on exposure limitation. Contents: identity and uses; human health hazards; medical 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. The dust and fumes of trimellitic anhydride are highly irritating to the eyes and respiratory system; the substance is a potent respiratory sensitizer. Four clinical syndromes have been identified: rhinitis and/or asthma; late respiratory systemic syndrome; pulmonary-disease-anaemia syndrome; and non-immunological irritant reaction. (107350)
CIS 07-1402 Parathion - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1992. 37p. Illus. 38 ref., ISBN 92-4-151074-9 (In English) Internet: This document provides a hazard evaluation of parathion based on critical national reviews along with practical guidance on exposure limitation. Contents: identity and uses; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; current regulations and guidelines. Parathion is a highly toxic organophosphorus pesticide; it is easily absorbed through the skin, as well as by inhalation and via the gastrointestinal tract; overexposure may cause severe or fatal poisoning. There are insufficient data to evaluate the carcinogenicity of parathion in humans. (107351)
CIS 07-1403 1,3-Dichloropropene, 1,2-dichloropropane and mixtures - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1992. 46p. Illus. 23 ref., ISBN 92-4-151076-5 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 146 (see CIS 93-1973). Contents: identity and uses of 1,3-dichloropropene, 1,2-dichloropropane (propylene dichloride) and mixtures; 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. 1,3-Dichloropropene is corrosive to the skin and is a sensitizer; it is severely irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract; excessive inhalation of the vapour can cause pulmonary oedema and delayed systemic effects. (107352)
CIS 07-1404 Propachlor - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1992. 26p. Illus. 20 ref., ISBN 92-4-151077-3 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 147 (see CIS 93-1645). Contents: identity and uses of propachlor (Ramrod); human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; current regulations and guidelines. Propachlor is irritating to the skin and may cause sensitization; it is irritating to the eyes and may cause corneal damage; dust and mist are irritating to the respiratory system. (107353)
CIS 07-1405 Carbaryl - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1993. 39p. Illus. 32 ref., ISBN 92-4-151078-1 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 153 (see CIS 98-1401). Contents: identity and uses of carbaryl; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; current regulations and guidelines. Carbaryl may be absorbed via inhalation, ingestion and through the skin; ingestion may lead to severe poisoning. The principal mechanism of action is cholinesterase inhibition. It is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. (107354)
CIS 07-1406 Methamidophos - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1993. 34p. Illus. 35 ref., ISBN 92-4-151079-X (In English) Internet: This document provides a hazard evaluation of methamidophos (tamaron) based on critical national reviews along with practical guidance on exposure limitation. Contents: identity and uses; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; current regulations and guidelines. Methamidophos is readily absorbed via the skin and by ingestion and inhalation; it may cause symptoms of organophosphate poisoning. It is irritating to the skin and eyes. (107355)
CIS 07-1407 Benomyl - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1993. 23p. Illus. 8 ref., ISBN 92-4-151081-1 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 148 (see CIS 93-1974). Contents: identity and uses of benomyl; 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. Benomyl has a low toxicity in humans; the primary toxic effects are dermal sensitization and contact dermatitis. (107356)
CIS 07-1408 Polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1993. 36p. Illus. 9 ref., ISBN 92-4-151083-8 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 152. Contents: identity and uses of polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs); human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; current regulations and guidelines. PBBs are very persistent and can be hazardous for humans if not handled correctly. Acute oral and dermal toxicity is low. In occupational settings, skin itching, peeling, scaling and acne have been found after exposure to PBBs. Liver disturbances, irritation and neurological effects have been reported, but not confirmed. (107357)
CIS 07-1409 Amitrole - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1994. 27p. Illus. 7 ref., ISBN 92-4-151085-4 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 158 (see CIS 98-1402). Contents: identity and uses of amitrole (aminotriazole); 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. Amitrole is a slight irritant and may cause skin sensitization; long-term inhalation exposure to spray-mist or dust may be harmful. (107358)
CIS 07-1410 Methyl bromide (bromomethane) - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1994. 39p. 21 ref., ISBN 92-4-151086-2 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 166 (see CIS 98-792). Contents: identity and uses of methyl bromide; 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. Methyl bromide is well absorbed via inhalation. It irritates the eyes, skin and respiratory tract; inhalation may cause lung oedema; it may cause effects on the central nervous system, kidneys and lungs; exposure to high concentrations may result in death. Repeated exposure may cause dermatitis or skin sensitization. (107359)
CIS 07-1411 Chloroform - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1994. 28p. 13 ref., ISBN 92-4-151087-0 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 163 (see CIS 98-1405). Contents: identity and uses of chloroform; 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. Skin exposure to chloroform may cause redness, defatting of the skin and chemical burns; eye contact causes redness, pain and blurred vision; inhalation may cause pulmonary oedema, unconsciousness and cardiac arrythmias; possible liver and kidney injury. (107360)
CIS 07-1412 Phenol - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1994. 31p. Illus. 9 ref., ISBN 92-4-151088-9 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 161 (see CIS 98-1403). Contents: identity and uses of phenol; 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. Phenol is corrosive to the skin and may be absorbed by the skin; it causes eye irritation or corrosion; inhalation causes inflammation and oedema in the respiratory system and central nervous system depression. Repeated exposure may cause dermatitis and liver and kidney damage. (107361)
CIS 07-1413 Ammonia - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1990. 30p. 11 ref., ISBN 92-4-151037-4 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 54 (see CIS 86-1047). Contents: identity and uses of ammonia; 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. Ammonia vapour causes severe eye irritation and lacrimation; inhalation at high concentrations causes airway irritation, breathing difficulties and blueness of the lips. Anhydrous liquid ammonia may cause frostbite; ammonia solutions cause severe eye injuries and conjunctival and corneal damage; skin burns. (107362)
CIS 07-1414 Mirex - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1990. 28p. Illus. 20 ref., ISBN 92-4-151039-0 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 44 (see CIS 86-218). Contents: identity and uses of mirex; 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. No data is available on the human health effects of mirex. On the basis of animal studies, the substance should be considered as potentially carcinogenic for humans. (107363)
CIS 07-1415 Chlordecone - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1990. 25p. Illus. 18 ref., ISBN 92-4-151041-2 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 43 (see CIS 86-217 ). Contents: identity and uses of chlordecone (kepone); human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; international chemical safety card for use in the workplace; current regulations and guidelines. On the basis of animal studies, chlordecone should be considered as a potential human carcinogen. (107364)
CIS 07-1416 Vanadium and some vanadium salts - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1990. 35p. 13 ref., ISBN 92-4-151042-0 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 81 (see 89-934). Contents: identity and uses of vanadium and its salts; 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. Vanadium pentoxide and vanadium sulfide cause skin irritation; vanadium halides cause skin burns. On inhlation, vanadium pentoxide dust and fume are acute and chronic irritants. (107365)
CIS 07-1417 Dimethylformamide (DMF) - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1990. 31p. Illus. 16 ref., ISBN 92-4-151043-9 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 114 (see CIS 91-1638). Contents: identity and uses of diemthylformamide (DMF); 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. DMF is easily absorbed through the skin (in both liquid and vapour forms) and by inhalation and ingestion; it can penetrate all protective gloves. The substance may produce moderate skin and eye irritation and is a potential human carcinogen. (107366)
CIS 07-1418 Beryllium - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1990. 30p. 11 ref., ISBN 92-4-151044-7 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 106 (see CIS 91-928). Contents: identity and uses of beryllium; 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. Inhalation and skin exposure to beryllium and its compounds can be extremely hazardous. The substance is a potential human carcinogen. Skin contact may cause irritation, lesions and ulcers following contamination of wounds; causes eye irritation. Inhalation causes irritation of the respiratory tract and may cause pneumonitis and lung oedema. (107367)
CIS 07-1419 Acrylamide - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 33p. 11 ref., ISBN 92-4-151045-5 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 49 (see CIS 86-123). Contents: identity and uses of acrylamide; 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. Acrylamide is considered to be a possible human carcinogen. The vapour and solutions are skin irritants and the substance is readily absorbed through the skin. It causes eye irritation and lacrimation. Possibility of liver and kidney damage. (107368)
CIS 07-1420 Barium - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 28p. Illus. 16 ref., ISBN 92-4-151046-3 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 107 (see CIS 91-565). Contents: identity and uses of barium; 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. Metallic barium causes skin and eye irritation; inhalation of the powder causes shortness of breath, trembling and vomiting. Soluble barium compounds cause poisoning and progressive muscular paralysis. (107369)
CIS 07-1421 Paraquat - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 36p. Illus. 20 ref., ISBN 92-4-151051-X (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 39 (see CIS 86-214). Contents: identity and uses of paraquat; 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. Paraquat is highly toxic and often fatal if swallowed. Contact with liquid products can cause severe damage to the skin or eyes. Inhalation causes irritation of the respiratory system. (107370)
CIS 07-1422 Diquat - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 31p. Illus. 20 ref., ISBN 92-4-151052-8 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 39 (see CIS 86-214). Contents: identity and uses of diquat; 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. Diquat is toxic and can be fatal if swallowed. It is irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory system; concentrated material may cause blisters and affect nails. (107371)
CIS 07-1423 Lindane (gamma-HCH) - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 41p. Illus. 22 ref., ISBN 92-4-151054-4 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 124 (see CIS 92-246). Contents: identity and uses of lindane; 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. Lindane is an organochlorine insecticide; it is moderately toxic and overexposure may cause poisoning. It is irritating to the eyes; the dust may cause irritation on inhalation. (107372)
CIS 07-1424 1,2-Dichloroethane - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 33p. Illus. 11 ref., ISBN 92-4-151055-2 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 62 (see CIS 88-584 and CIS 98-800). Contents: identity and uses of 1,2-dichloroethane; 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. Based on animal studies, 1,2-dichloroethane should be regarded as posing a carcinogenic risk for humans. The substance causes irritation, degreasing and redness of the skin, eye irritation and inflammation and blurred vision. Inhalation may cause irritation and inflammation of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, central nervous system depression, effects on liver and kidneys. (107373)
CIS 07-1425 Hydrazine - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 29p. Illus. 13 ref., ISBN 92-4-151056-0 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 68 (see CIS 88-1643). Contents: identity and uses of hydrazine; 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. Based on animal studies, hydrazine should be considered as a possible human carcinogen. Contact with the liquid causes burns to the skin and eyes; the vapour is irritating to the skin and eyes. Inhalation may cause irritation of the nose and respiratory tract, effects on the central nervous system, liver and kidneys. (107374)
CIS 07-1426 Formaldehyde - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 45p. 11 ref., ISBN 92-4-151057-9 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 89 (see CIS 90-1976). Contents: identity and uses of formaldehyde; 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. Formaldehyde is a suspected human carcinogen by the inhalation route. It has a pungent odour and the vapour is irritating to the skin and eyes and causes lacrimation; solutions may be irritant or corrosive, depending on the concentration. Inhalation may cause severe irritation, with a possibility of oedema, laboured breathing, dizziness and loss of consciousness. (107375)
CIS 07-1427 Methyl isobutyl ketone - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1991. 28p. 11 ref., ISBN 92-4-151058-7 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 117 (see CIS 91-925). Contents: identity and uses of methyl isobutyl ketone (hexone); 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. Methyl isobutyl ketone liquid may irritate the skin; repeated contact may cause dermatitis; the undiluted solution and high vapour concentrations are eye irritants. Inhalation at high concentrations causes respiratory irritation and may cause depression of the central nervous system. (107376)
CIS 07-1428 Tri-allate - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1994. 20p. 6 ref., ISBN 92-4-151089-7 (In English) Internet: This document provides a hazard evaluation of tri-allate based on critical national reviews along with practical guidance on exposure limitation. Contents: identity and uses; human health hazards; health surveillance and first aid; safety in storage and use; environmental hazards; current regulations and guidelines. The acute oral toxicity of technical tri-allate for humans is thought to be moderate; most formulations are likely to be only slightly toxic. It is irritating to the eyes and skin. (107377)
CIS 07-1429 Phosgene - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1998. 27p. 10 ref., ISBN 92-4-151106-0 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 193 (see CIS 98-830). Contents: identity and uses of phosgene; 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. Inhalation of phosgene causes, laboured breathing and shortness of breath; acute severe exposure causes pulmonary oedema and may result in death. Skin contact with liquid phosgene causes skin burns, frostbite and blisters; contact with the eyes causes redness, pain and blurred vision. (107378)
CIS 07-1430 Hexachlorobenzene - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1998. 27p. 7 ref., ISBN 92-4-151107-9 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health 195 Criteria (see CIS 98-832). Contents: identity and uses of hexachlorobenzene; 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. Hexachlorobenzene may cause slight irritation to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes; inhalation results in irritation of the respiratory tract. (107379)
CIS 07-1431 Carbon tetrachloride - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1998. 25p. 6 ref., ISBN 92-4-151108-7 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 208 (see CIS 00-41). Contents: identity and uses of carbon tetrachloride; 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. Symptoms of acute exposure to carbon tetrachloride include gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, such as nausea, dizziness and dyspnoea; may result in death. Liver and kidney damage is also possible. (107380)
CIS 07-1432 Preventing worker deaths and injuries when handling Micotil 300®. (Spanish: Prevención de muertes y lesiones de trabajadores por el uso de Micotil 300®) Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Apr. 2007. 4p. 6 ref. (In English, Spanish) Internet: Cattle farmers, veterinarians and other workers in contact with animals may be exposed to the animal antibiotic Micotil 300® through skin injuries from needlestick accidents, cuts or bites, as well as from contact with animal skin and biological matter. Cardiotoxic effects of Micotil 300®, including a reduced cardiac contractility and tachycardia, can be severe enough to cause death. It is recommended that extreme care be given to following safe drug handling and injection procedures to avoid the possibility of self injection. Although no antidote exists for Micotil 300®, exposed persons should seek immediate medical intervention as the drug's cardiotoxic effects may be reversed. (107318)
CIS 07-1433 Control of inhalable dust in mines - The Coal Mines (Control of Inhalable Dust) Regulations 2007. Health and Safety Commission, HSE Books, P.O.Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Aug. 2007. iv, 56p. lllus. 21 ref. Price: GBP 11.50., ISBN 978-0-7176-6254-8 (In English) Internet: This approved code of practice provides guidance on how to comply with the United Kingdom Coal Mines (Control of Inhalable Dust) Regulations 2007. It is particularly relevant to mine owners and mine managers, as well as to employers with employees who may be required to work below ground at coal mines and the self-employed contractors. It comments each of the 14 specific regulations of the regulatory package covering areas such as hazard evaluation, control of exposure, sampling and analysis, health surveillance information and training. (107491)
CIS 07-1434 Reducing worker exposure to asphalt fumes from roofing kettles. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Feb. 2007. 4p. Illus. 5 ref. (In English) Internet: Roofers, particularly kettle operators, may be exposed to asphalt fumes when asphalt is heated in roofing kettles during the laying or repair of roofing membranes. Asphalt fumes have been associated with a number of health risks. This information note includes several recommendations aimed at limiting the exposure to asphalt fumes. NIOSH also evaluated several efficient engineering controls for reducing exposure to asphalt fumes, including asphalt containing fume-suppressing additives, afterburners and modified loader systems. (107298)
CIS 07-1435 A dangerous worksite - The World Trade Center. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 2003. 24p. Illus., ISBN 2003 (In English) Internet: This leaflet describes the efforts undertaken by OSHA to provide safety and health support to workers involved in demolition work at the World Trade Center disaster site. Support was provided for the following specific hazards: cranes; heavy equipment; falls and falling objects; explosions; hot steel; refrigerant storage tanks; work in confined spaces. It was found that there was a need for improvements in the area of emergency response, emergency training and transportation. (107453)
CIS 07-1436 Asbestos standard for the construction industry. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 2002. vii, 57p. (In English) Internet: This booklet describes the OSHA asbestos standard for the construction industry. Contents: description of asbestos, the dangers of asbestos exposure and construction activities concerned; provisions of the OSHA standard (work classification, permissible exposure limit for asbestos, exposure monitoring, function of a competent person, initial exposure assessment, medical surveillance programs for employees, regulated area, responsibilities for communicating asbestos hazards at worksites, warning signs, warning labels, training); methods of compliance (methods to control asbestos exposure levels, duties of the competent person, respirators, protective clothing, hygiene, housekeeping). (107456)
CIS 07-1437 Medical surveillance for health care workers exposed to hazardous drugs. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Apr. 2007. 4p. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: Health care workers who handle, prepare or administer hazardous drugs may face risks to their own health such as skin rashes, cancer and reproductive disorders. It is recommended that employers establish a medical surveillance programme to protect workers exposed to hazardous drugs in the course of their work. This information sheet lists the key elements of such a medical surveillance programme. (107319)
CIS 07-1438 Best practices for hospital-based first receivers of victims from mass casualty incidents involving the release of hazardous substances. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 2005. 97p. Illus. 71 ref. (In English) Internet: Healthcare workers risk occupational exposures to chemical, biological, or radiological materials when a hospital receives contaminated patients, particularly during major accidents. These hospital employees, who may be termed first receivers, work at a site remote from the location where the hazardous substance release occurred. This means that their exposures are limited to the substances transported to the hospital on victims' skin, hair, clothing, or personal effects. In this best practices document, OSHA provides practical information to help hospitals address employee protection and training as part of emergency planning for major accidents involving hazardous substances. By tailoring emergency plans to reflect the reasonably predictable worst-case scenarios under which first receivers might work, the hospital can guide decisions regarding personnel training and PPE selection. (107459)
CIS 07-1439 Best practices for the safe use of glutaraldehyde in health care. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 2006. 44p. 51 ref. (In English) Internet: This guide describes best practices for the safe use of glutaraldehyde in health care facilities. Glutaraldehyde is used widely as a cold sterilizing agent to disinfect a variety of heat-sensitive instruments, such as endoscopes, bronchoscopes and dialysis equipment. In addition, health care employees may be exposed to glutaraldehyde in its uses as a hardener in X-ray developing and as a tissue fixative in histology and pathology labs. Glutaraldehyde has been linked with a variety of health effects including asthma, breathing difficulties, respiratory irritation, and skin rashes. This guide describes engineering controls, work practices and facility design considerations that will help reduce employee exposure to glutaraldehyde. It includes recommendations for personal protective equipment, employee training, exposure monitoring, disposal practices, and spill and cleanup procedures. The use of alternatives to glutaraldehyde is also addressed. (107460)
CIS 07-1440 Annals of the Global Asbestos Congress 2004. Kazan, McClain, Abrams, Fernandez, Lyons & Farrise, 171 Twelfth Street, Oakland, CA 94607, USA, 2004. CD-ROM containing documents in PDF format. (In English) Internet: Proceedings of a conference on asbestos held in Tokyo, Japan, 19-21 November 2004. Papers were presented in the sessions covering the following topics: global health impact of asbestos; environmental exposure, crisis preparedness and risk communication; empowerment of victims and their families; medical surveillance and treatment of asbestos-related diseases; compensation for damages due to asbestos; identification; management and removal of existing asbestos; strategies for a worldwide asbestos ban. (107384)
CIS 07-1441 Statistical analysis of major accidents in petrochemical industry notified to the major accident reporting system (MARS). Nivolianitou Z., Konstandinidou M., Michalis C., Journal of Hazardous Materials, Sep. 2006, Vol.137, No.1, p.1-7. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: The European Major Accident Reporting System (MARS) was created within the framework of European Union (EU) Directive 82/501/EEC, the so-called "Seveso Directive" (see CIS 83-889), in order to register all the major industrial accidents notified to the European Union authorities from Member States. Statistical analysis of these accidents offers significant data to the understanding and prevention of industrial accidents. This article analyses some characteristics of major accidents in the petrochemical sector included in MARS. The statistical analysis focused on the main fields of the MARS short reports. In addition, a more detailed analysis of the causes of major accidents, with a focus on organizational factors, was attempted using the details available in the full reports of the database. (107277)
CIS 07-1442 A general model for predicting the flash point of miscible mixtures. Liaw H.J., Chiu Y.Y., Journal of Hazardous Materials, Sep. 2006, Vol.137, No.1, p.38-46. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: This article presents a mathematical model for predicting the flash point of miscible mixtures. The model was validated using the ternary aqueous-organic solutions consisting of water, methanol and ethanol or isopropanol. The findings confirm that the model predicts flash points of these solutions by utilizing the flash points of the individual components. Further, if the binary interaction parameters for ternary aqueous-organic solution are not accessible, a model based upon the binary interaction parameters of the binary solutions may provide a sufficiently acceptable means of predicting the flash point for such a ternary solution, as validated in this study by comparing predicted and experimental data. (107278)
CIS 07-1443 Controlling minds. Paterson T., Fire Engineers Journal, Oct. 2006, Vol.66, No.273, p.21-25. Illus. (In English) Internet: This article summarizes the main requirements of the new United Kingdom fire safety regulations which came into force in 1 October 2006. It goes much further than previous regulations in placing the ultimate responsibility with senior management and enterprise owners. Topics addressed: chain of command; skill and knowledge; system of administration; training syllabus; emergency procedures. (107280)
CIS 07-1444 Dust explosions - Cases, causes, consequences, and control. Abbasi T., Abbasi S.A., Journal of Hazardous Materials, Feb. 2007, Vol.140, No.1-2, p.7-44. Illus. 204 ref. (In English) Internet: Dust explosions are among the most serious and widespread of explosion hazards in industry, almost always leading to serious financial losses in terms of direct damage to facilities and production down time. They also often cause serious injuries to personnel, and fatalities. This literature survey presents illustrative case studies and accident analyses reflecting the geographic spread of dust explosions across the world and their high damage potential. The sources and triggers of dust explosions, and the measures with which different factors associated with dust explosions can be quantified are reviewed alongside dust explosion mechanisms. The review also examines the ways available to prevent dust explosion, and on cushioning the impact of a dust explosion by venting when the accident does take place. (107425)
CIS 07-1445 The ex files. Ratcliff I., Safety and Health Practitioner, Dec. 2006, Vol.24, No.12, p.46-48. Illus. 1 ref. (In English) Internet: This article discusses the risk of explosion in the workplace. It briefly explains the science behind such events and discusses how companies can manage their activities responsibly to avoid them. Boxes contain United Kingdom legislation applicable to explosions and short descriptions of accidents. (107476)
CIS 07-1446 Liquefied natural gas - LNG safety and protecting a facility: striving to be the safest in industry. Olson K., Behnke J., Edlbeck D. R, NFPA Journal, Jan.-Feb. 2007, Vol.101, No.1, p.44-49. Illus. (In English) Internet: Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is used in the United States to supplement normal gas supplies during periods of peak demand. It mainly consists of methane. LNG is stored and transported in cryogenic tanks subject to strict regulations. This article discusses effective fire protection for LNG facilities, which include prevention, control and extinguishment. Addressing these objectives requires implementing organizational measures, providing appropriate training, designing equipment which complies with safety standards, and using suitable extinguishing systems including dry chemical systems and foams. (107490)
CIS 07-1447 Practical assistance for the preparation of an explosion protection document. (French: Guide pratique pour l'élaboration du document relatif à la protection contre les explosions; German: Praxishilfen zur Erstellung des Explosionsschutzdokumentes) International Section Machine and System Safety of the ISSA, Dynamostrasse 7-11, 68165 Mannheim, Germany, 2006. 46p. Illus. 11 ref., ISBN 92-843-1167-5 (En-fr), ISBN 92-843-7167-8 (de) (In English, French, German) Internet: European Directive 94/9/EC, known as the ATEX Directive (see CIS 95-27), specifies the requirements concerning the protection against explosions within enterprises. It requires employers to carry out a hazard evaluation and to record the findings in an explosion protection document, together with all related prevention measures. This booklet presents the structure and content of this document, and provides several examples of hazard evaluations (floor over a silo complex, pneumatic conveying systems, storage of explosive gases and liquids, paint spraying booths, etc.). (107267)
CIS 07-1448 Fire prevention. (French: Prévention des risques d'incendie; Italian: Antincendio; Spanish: Prevención de incendios) International Textile, Garment and Leather Workers' Federation, 8 rue Joseph Stevens, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2004. CD-ROM containing PowerPoint presentations. (In English, French, Italian, Spanish) Internet: Contents of this safety training presentation on preventing fire hazards in the textile, garment and leather industries, aimed at workers in developing countries: introduction (description of fire and its effects, effects of combustion); extinguishing substances and systems; main components of fire extinguishers; use of fire extinguishers and hose reels; hazard identification; fire-fighting measures; evacuation; emergency procedures; personal protection; rules for safety (signalling anomalies, periodical controls, escape routes, storage of flammable materials, electrical systems, smoking ban, information and training of personnel, waste disposal, inspection of premises). (107382)
CIS 07-1449 Hand-arm vibration syndrome with use of anti-vibration chain saws: 19-year follow-up study of forestry workers. Sutinen P., Toppila E., Starck J., Brammer A., Zou J., Pyykkö I., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 2006, Vol.79, No.8, p.665-671. Illus. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: In this follow-up study of a cohort of 52 forestry workers in Finland initiated in 1976, the prevalence of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and cumulative exposure to vibration were evaluated, with special emphasis given to numbness and musculoskeletal disorders of the upper extremities and the neck. Total exposure of hand-arm vibration was recorded during 11 cross-sectional surveys, the last of which was carried out in 1995. The lifetime dose of vibration energy was calculated. As a result of the increased use of anti-vibration chain saws, the prevalence of active vibration white finger (VWF) decreased significantly. However, that of numbness increased. Numbness did not follow the vibration exposure profile. Neck pain was present in 38% of workers and associated with low back pain. The effect of smoking on WWF was significant. Other findings are discussed. (107275)
CIS 07-1450 In-cab noise reduction on an air-rotary drill rig. Yantek D.S., Ingram D.K., Matetic R.J., Noise Control Engineering Journal, May-June 2007, Vol.55, No.3, p.294-310. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: A recent investigation revealed that noise levels in cabs of compressed air rotary drill rigs often exceed 85 dB(A). The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) studied the in-cab sound levels of one such rig. Preliminary tests were conducted in a controlled environment using accelerometers and microphones with spectral analysis to identify the dominant noise sources. Field tests were then performed in a production environment to evaluate noise controls to reduce in-cab sound levels. It was found that hydraulic noise suppressors reduce the structure-borne noise. Together with enhanced soundproofing, these measures reduced sound levels by as much as 4 dB(A). (107392)
CIS 07-1451 A study of annoyance caused by low-frequency noise during mental work. Kaczmarska A., Łuczak A., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.13, No.2, p.117-125. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: This article presents the results of a study of annoyance caused by low-frequency noise (including infrasonic noise) that occurs at work stations located in offices. Sixty volunteers (30 men and 30 women) with normal hearing took part in an experimental study involving psychological tests under three acoustic exposure conditions in a laboratory simulated office work environment. Participants reported their subjective annoyance. Findings are discussed. Annoyance was rated higher among women and among persons with higher reactivity. (107393)
CIS 07-1452 Bad vibes. Machen F., Safety and Health Practitioner, Nov. 2006, Vol.24, No.11, p.65-67. Illus. (In English) Internet: Working with organizations to undertake health surveillance for hand-arm vibration syndrome is often a very challenging task for occupational health practitioners. This article proposes a five-step systematic approach: questionnaire survey of employees; appointment of a responsible person; review of the completed questionnaires; targeted assessment for employees declaring health effects; defining guidelines for objective testing. (107475)
CIS 07-1453 Proposed criteria for assessing low frequency noise annoyance in occupational settings. Pawlaczyk-Łuszczyńska M., Szymczak W., Dudarewicz A., Śliwińska-Kowalska M., International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2006, Vol.19, No.3, p.185-197. Illus. 37 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of the study was to recommend methods for assessing low frequency noise (LFN) in the occupational environment to prevent annoyance and its effects on work performance. Three different methods and corresponding admissible values were evaluated. The proposed criteria were verified in laboratory and field studies. The laboratory study included 55 volunteers with normal hearing. The subjects listened to different noises at sound pressure levels of 45-65dB(A), and evaluated annoyance using a graphical rating scale. In the field study, 35 male workers exposed to LFN of 48-61dB(A) were asked to rate noise annoyance at their workplaces using a similar graphical scale. The subjective ratings of LFNs were compared to objective results from various assessing methods. Findings are discussed. All proposed criteria were able to reliably predict annoyance experienced from LFN at workplaces. (107479)
CIS 07-1454 Physiological responses and performance of loading work in a severely cold environment. Kim T.G., Tochihara Y., Fujita M., Hashiguchi N., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.37, p.725-732. Illus. 19 ref. (In English) Internet: In this study, physiological responses and manual performance were measured during loading work in a severely cold environment. Eight volunteer male subjects wearing standard cold-protective clothing occupied a 20°C room for 20min, and were then transferred to an extremely cold room (-25°C) for 30min. This pattern of exposure was repeated three times. In the cold room, the subjects transported 9kg goods (condition R1) and 18kg goods (condition R2) for 10 min, and performed no work (condition C). At the end of the cold exposure, rectal, mean skin and mean body temperatures in conditions R2 and R1 were higher than in condition C. Cold stress declined due to an increase in heat production during work as confirmed by the subjects who reported less cold sensation with loading work. Other findings are discussed. (107441)
CIS 07-1455 Occupational exposure to power frequency magnetic fields and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Karipidis K., Benke G., Sim M., Fritschi L., Yost M., Armstrong B., Hughes A.M., Grulich A., Vajdic C.M., Kaldor J.M., Kricker A., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2007, Vol.64, No.1, p.25-29. Illus. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to investigate the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) due to occupational exposure to magnetic fields of 50-60Hz. The study population consisted of 694 cases of NHL, first diagnosed between 1 January 2000 and 31 August 2001, and 694 controls from two regions in Australia, matched by age, sex and region of residence. A detailed occupational history was given by each subject. Occupational exposure to power-frequency magnetic fields was estimated using a specially-developed job-exposure matrix. The odds ratio (OR) for workers in the upper quartile of exposure was 1.48 compared to the referent group. When the exposure was lagged by five years the OR was 1.59. Adjusting for other occupational exposures did not significantly alter the results. These findings provide weak support for the hypothesis that occupational exposure to 50-60Hz magnetic fields increases the risk of NHL. (107421)
CIS 07-1456 Pooled analysis of two Swedish case-control studies on the use of mobile and cordless telephones and the risk of brain tumours diagnosed during 1997-2003. Hansson Mild K., Hardell L., Carlberg M., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.63-71. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: The findings of a pooled analysis of two case-control studies on the association of brain tumours with mobile phone use are presented. It was found that analogue cellular phones increased the risk for acoustic neuroma by 2-9% per 100hrs of use. There was also an increased risk of grade III-IV astrocytoma with latency period with highest estimates using a time period of over ten years from first use of these phone types. The risk increased per one year of use of analogue phones by 10%, digital phones by 11%, and cordless phones by 8%. For all three phone types studied, the odds ratios of brain tumours, mainly acoustic neuroma and malignant tumours, increased with the latency period, especially for astrocytoma grade III-IV. (107412)
CIS 07-1457 Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck and upper-limbs in professional drivers of terrain vehicles - A cross sectional study. Åström C., Rehn B., Lundström R., Nilsson T., Burström L., Sundelin G., Applied Ergonomics, Nov. 2006, Vol.37, No.6, p.793-799. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: This study compares the prevalence of symptoms of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck and the upper limbs between professional drivers of terrain vehicles and a referent group not exposed to vibrations. 769 male professional drivers of various types of terrain vehicles and forest machines, and 296 randomly selected male referents completed a questionnaire on HAVS and musculoskeletal symptoms in the neck and the upper limbs. They also provided information on lifetime exposure to the driving of terrain vehicles and their tobacco use. Prevalence odds ratios (POR) were determined and adjusted for age and nicotine use. Results show that there is a relation between the driving of terrain vehicles the symptoms of HAVS (POR 1.2-6.1). Increased risks of musculoskeletal symptoms in neck, shoulders and wrists were also found (POR 1.2-6.4) which appeared to be related to cumulative exposure time. (107420)
CIS 07-1458 Exposure to chemical agents and noise in the leather industry. (Portuguese: Exposição a agentes químicos e ruído em indústria de couro) Pereira Santos M., Sebben V.C., Farenzena P.R., Dexheimer C.F., Pereira Santos C., Steffen V.M., Revista brasileira de saúde ocupacional, 2005, Vol.30, No.111, p.51-56. 17 ref. (In Portuguese) Internet: This study investigated the relationship between hearing loss and the occupational exposition to noise and toluene. Seventy-three tannery workers were divided into three groups: exposed to noise, exposed to noise and chemicals and unexposed. Data on the workers' clinical and occupational histories were obtained by means of questionnaires. Exposure to toluene was evaluated by environmental and biological monitoring. Noise level and audiometric tests were also conducted. Data were subjected to statistical evaluation. Findings are discussed. The hearing losses found in the noise group and noise and chemical agents group were significant when compared to the control group. (107308)
CIS 07-1459 Assessment of speech communications in the presence of traffic noise - Design principles. (German: Beurteilung der Sprachkommunikation bei Verkehrsgeräuschen - Gestaltungsgrundsätze) Sust C.A., Steckel R., Kulka M., Lazarus H., Kurtz P., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2007. 117p. Illus. 81 ref. Price: EUR 14.00., ISBN 978-3-86509-672-2 (In German) Clear speech communication is essential in many work situations. Speech communication is influenced by factors including speaker's volume, distance to the listener, reverberation and interfering noise which affect the signal-to-noise ratio. It is frequently traffic noise that interferes with speech communication. This study presents a novel approach for evaluating the subjective effort required for the comprehension process. In two experiments, an evaluation was conducted to investigate the influence of traffic noise according to the frequency distribution (motor vehicles, goods train) and the time factors (fluctuations such as approaching, departing and intermittent levels) on speech intelligibility and communication clarity. The main finding is that evaluation is primarily affected by the signal-to-noise ratio. A new quality scale of speech communication was developed. In cases of high speech intelligibility, criteria such as concentration and coping differentiate better than speech intelligibility alone. The experiments provide indications that optimum speech communication involving high intelligibility with relatively low levels of mental effort is only achieved beyond the signal-to-noise difference of 15 to 20 dB. (107466)
CIS 07-1460 Environmental radiological protection in the law - A baseline survey. OECD Nuclear Energy Agency, Le Seine Saint Germain, 12 Boulevard des Îles, 92130 Issy-les.Moulineaux, France, 2007. 61p. Illus. 12 ref., ISBN 978-92-64-99000-5 (In English) Internet: This booklet presents the findings of a study of international, European and national legislation aimed at protecting the environment from ionizing radiation. Countries covered include Australia, Canada, France, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. The analysis of the legislation draws conclusions about how well the environment is protected from radiation, and identifies strengths and weaknesses of current approaches as well as trends in regulation. The book will be useful reading for regulators and policy makers in radiological protection, but also for those interested in environmental regulation more generally. (107499)
CIS 07-1461 Safety of radiation generators and sealed radioactive sources. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wagramerstrasse 5, P.O. Box 100, 1400 Wien, Austria, 2006. 59p. Illus. 56 ref. Price: EUR 25.00., ISBN 92-0-107506-5 (In English) Internet: The objective of this guide is to assist Member States to implement regulatory requirements for the safety of radiation sources. It provides guidance on responsibilities for safety, on methodologies for performing safety assessments and on operational measures that should be taken to ensure safety throughout the life cycle of radiation generators and sealed radioactive sources. The safety measures recommended are also applicable to radioactive sources in nuclear facilities or radioactive waste disposal facilities. Contents: introduction; regulatory infrastructure and responsibilities; safety assessment; design, manufacture and use of radiation sources and facilities; decommissioning of facilities and management of disused sources. (107293)
CIS 07-1462 Assessing the need for radiation protection measures in work involving minerals and raw materials. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wagramerstrasse 5, P.O. Box 100, 1400 Wien, Austria, 2006. 56p. Illus. 33 ref. Price: EUR 32.00., ISBN 92-0-107406-9 (In English) Internet: All mining or materials processing operations have the potential to increase the radiation dose received by the workers, due to the fact that all minerals and raw materials contain natural radionuclides. However, only in a limited number of cases does the situation warrant the introduction of radiation protection measures. This report provides information on the expected exposure levels encountered in various industrial activities, identifies the activities for which radiation protection regulatory controls are most likely to be needed and suggests the most appropriate regulatory approach. (107294)
CIS 07-1463 Magnetic fields - Health and safety guide. International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS), World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service, 1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 1989. 24p. 5 ref., ISBN 92-4-154348-5 (In English) Internet: This document provides practical guidance on the application of exposure limitation guidelines contained in Environmental Health Criteria 69 (see CIS CIS 88-1703). Contents: physical characteristics and applications of magnetic fields; effects on human health; protective measures; current regulations and guidelines. No conclusive information is available on the effects of magnetic field exposure on human health. (107343)
CIS 07-1464 Materials and their use in hand protection. (German: Materialen und Ihr Einsatz im Handschutz) Zuther F., Sicherheitsingenieur, 2007, No.4, p.32-37. Illus. (In German) Internet: According to the statistics of the Federation of German Professional Associations (HVBG), hand and wrist injuries are the most frequent reportable occupational accidents in the country. The HVBG registered about 772,000 compulsorily reportable industrial accidents for 2005, of which 316,000 (41%) involved the hand or wrist. This article presents the properties of various materials used in protective gloves, together with their advantages and areas of application. Contents: cuts are avoidable; causes and location of injuries; materials providing resistance against cuts; synthetic fibres (polyamides, aramids, highly-oriented polyethylenes). (107470)
CIS 07-1465 Use of protective gloves for the manual harvesting of sugar cane. (Portuguese: O uso das luvas de proteção no corte manual de cana-de-açúcar) Gonzaga M.C., Funes Abrahão R., Braunbeck O.A., Revista brasileira de saúde ocupacional, 2005, Vol.30, No.111, p.35-40. Illus. 17 ref. (In Portuguese) Internet: This study on gloves used for the manual harvesting of sugar cane resulted from a tripartite negotiation between FUNDACENTRO, a workers' union and a sugar mill. A key factor of glove efficiency is their adherence to the knife handle. Data on the quality of four models of gloves were collected by means of questionnaires distributed to 47 workers. Their friction coefficient with wood was also measured. The qualitative research showed that workers prefer gloves made of leather straps and nylon because they fit their hands comfortably, without causing aches or blocking their movements. Other findings are discussed. (107307)
CIS 07-1466 Potential exposure to hazardous work activities: Tractor usage among farmwomen. Carruth A.K., Skarke L., Gilmore K., Brown E.R., Journal of Agromedicine, 2006, Vol.11, No.3/4, p.25-34. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the involvement and work patterns of 665 women in Texas and 657 women in Louisiana who were 18 years old and older and whose family participated in farming operations. Surveys were used to gather specific data regarding tractor work patterns, tractor knowledge, sources of information about tractors and demographic information. Among the women, 577 (43.6%) reported driving tractors at least one day a year. This subset was used to describe characteristics of tractors and tractor-related activities. Findings indicate that women learn to drive tractors in their 20s, use husbands as the primary source of their information about tractors, engage in a wide variety of farm activities and acknowledge having limited knowing about driving tractors. Other findings are discussed. It is concluded that interventions that target women to become more knowledgeable regarding the injury risks associated with driving tractors need to be designed. (107396)
CIS 07-1467 Fall arresting system - Mobile fall arrester for rope. (French: Système d'arrêt de chute - Antichute mobile sur corde) Finiel J., Prévention BTP, July-Aug. 2007, No.98, p.26-27. Illus. (In French) Internet: Fall arresting systems consist of a group of components that allow to immediately stop the fall of an operator in case of an incident. Each component of the system needs to be compatible with the others. This article describes the various components of fall arresting systems: anchor points; locking buckles; mobile fall arrester; fall arresting harness. (107404)
CIS 07-1468 Development of a loading dock safety evaluation tool. Gauthier F., Giraud L., Bournival S., Bourbonnière R., Richard J.G., Daigle R., Massé S., Journal of Safety Research, 2007, Vol.38, No.1, p.35-51. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this literature-based study was to evaluate the technical and the organizational aspects of the restraint measures that could have an impact on safety of forklifts used to load and unload trucks at loading docks. Certain elements were examined very closely, especially the failure of mechanical devices and their relation to the environment in which they are used, as well as the interaction between workers and the various restraint measures in use in a given context. This work enabled the development of a safety evaluation tool regarding restraint measures or systems for trucks docked at loading platforms. The tool is designed to help companies choose the optimal safety measures to implement in any given situation, while remaining realistic in terms of the technical and economic aspects. (107286)
CIS 07-1469 Occupational injury in the French sea fishing industry: A comparative study between the 1980s and today. Chauvin C., Le Bouar G., Accident Analysis and Prevention, Jan. 2007, Vol.39, No.1, p.79-85. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: This study compared two databases related to occupational injuries in the French sea fishing sector, one for the years 1977 to 1980 and the other for the years 1996 to 2001. The study focused on the accidents occurring while the vessel was in the process of fishing. In the 1980s, as well as today, working with fishing gear is a highly dangerous task, correlated with the risk of being "struck by, swept along, pinned". The processing and handling of the catch also cause a large amount of accidents. During these tasks, fishermen have to cope with two main risks: being "cut or pricked" and "excessive efforts and awkward movements". The frequency and features of occupational accidents do not show significant trends. These findings lead to a questioning of the prevention measures implemented in France during the last few decades and to proposing new prevention strategies. (107423)
CIS 07-1470 Surface characteristics of floor coverings and their slip resistance. (German: Oberflächencharakteristik von Bodenbelägen und deren Rutschhemmung) Schnell A., Goretzki L., Weinhold W.P., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2007. 92p. Illus. 29 ref. Price: EUR 12.50., ISBN 978-3-86509-649-4 (In German) Internet: In this research project, various parameters of floor coverings such as surface topography in the micro and macro range, micro friction and deformation characteristics were determined and compared with the friction values determined by means of GMG 100 slip resistance tester and other measuring systems. Non-profiled floor coverings (ceramic tiles, natural stone, terrazzo and laminate) were examined, which were given post-treatments for a better slip resistance with different techniques. Relationships found between the surface parameters and slip resistance are discussed. (107467)
CIS 07-1471 Harness suspension: Review and evaluation of existing information. Seddon P., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. x, 104p. Illus. 106 ref. Price: GBP 20.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-2526-5 (In English) Internet: The objective of this review was to identify and evaluate literature dealing with the effects of being suspended in a harness, together with issues regarding various types of harnesses, including the position of their attachment points. In addition, selected harness standards were examined to see if and how they addressed the topic of suspension. Over 50 documents were located from sources in the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Australia and the Internet. Findings are discussed. (107336)
CIS 07-1472 Development of an interactive toolkit for Safe Site as part of the workplace transport priority programme. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. ii, 18p. Illus. Price: GBP 20.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 0-7176-6134-2 (In English) Internet: Safe Site is a web-delivered software application that makes use of virtual reality and other interactive media elements to educate users on the safety of industrial safety, particularly where vehicles come into close proximity with other vehicles and pedestrians. This report is a compilation of earlier interim reports and therefore gives a chronological breakdown of the project's development. Stages one and two focused on the design effort, while the latter stages focused on media production, testing, feedback and system integration. The report concludes with a series of short recommendations concerning future phases of the project. (107337)
CIS 07-1473 Technical recommendations for the prevention of accidents in the motorcycle delivery sector. (Portuguese: Recomendações técnicas para a prevenção de acidentes no setor de motofrete) Diniz E.P.H., Filho J.M.J., Sampaio M.R., Oliveira Pereira A.C., Assunção A.Á., Lima F.P.A., Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego, Fundacentro, Rua Capote Valente 710, São Paulo, SP 06409-002, Brazil, 2006. 58p. 21 ref., ISBN 85-98117-17-X (In Portuguese) Internet: Contents of these recommendations for the prevention of accidents in the motorcycle delivery sector: arguments in favour of a comprehensive review of accidents involving motorcyclists; why motorcyclists are exposed to accidents; list of 55 technical recommendations for the prevention of accidents in this sector of activity. A leaflet containing recommendations aimed at users of motorcycle delivery services, motorists and pedestrians is included. (107302)
CIS 07-1474 A guide for protecting workers from woodworking hazards. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 1999. 67p. Illus. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: Machines used in woodworking are dangerous, particularly when used improperly or without proper safeguards. Workers operating woodworking equipment often suffer from the following injuries: laceration, severed fingers and blindness. Wood dust and the chemicals used in finishing are health hazards, and workers in this industry can suffer from skin and respiratory diseases. The purpose of this guide is to help employers provide a safe and healthy workplace. Contents: principal safety hazards of woodworking and methods of control; specific woodworking equipment hazards and controls; other safety hazards of woodworking; health hazards of woodworking and methods of control (wood dust, noise, vibration, chemicals used in finishing); personal protective equipment. (107454)
CIS 07-1475 Strategies and methods for investigation of airborne biological agents from work environments in Germany. Albrecht A., Kiel K., Kolk A., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.13, No.2, p.201-213. 28 ref. (In English) Internet: During 2004-2005, a European project was carried out to support Polish occupational safety and health institutions in putting into practice Directive 2000/54/EC regarding the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents at work (CIS 03-1046). It involved the information and training of persons responsible for the sampling and analysis of biological agents, and the assessment of the results of workplace atmosphere measurements. This article describes the activities carried out during the project, together with information on the standards for bioaerosol measurements commonly used in Germany within the framework of European guidelines. (107394)
CIS 07-1476 Size distribution of airborne mist and endotoxin-containing particles in metalworking fluid environments. Wang H., Reponen T., Lee S.A., White E., Grinshpun S.A., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Mar. 2007, Vol.4, No.3, p.157-165. Illus. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to investigate size-selective concentrations of airborne particles and endotoxin in metalworking fluid (MWF) environments. MWFs collected in the field were aerosolized in a laboratory. Samples of MWFs aerosolized during routine field operations were also collected and analysed. All experiments included size-selective measurement of airborne concentrations of particles and endotoxins by particle size, using a low-pressure impactor. Airborne particle concentrations were highest in the fine particle size ranges in the areas affected by MWFs. Relatively high concentrations of endotoxin were mesaures at particle sizes below 0.39µm, which is smaller than the size of intact bacterial cells. It was concluded that MWF sites can be contaminated with high concentrations of fine particles which may contain microbial components such as endotoxins. (107262)
CIS 07-1477 A preliminary study on Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) and their endotoxins in a gin house in India. Doctor R.P., Bhagia L.J., Derasari A.Y., Vyas J.B., Amin R.J., Ghosh S.K., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2006, Vol.3, No.12, p.707-712. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: Byssinosis, an occupational disease found among cotton mill workers, results from exposure to cotton dust. This study was carried out in a gin house in western India to evaluate the exposure of workers to cotton dust. Airborne dust concentrations were found to be very high in the working environment, 2.11mg/m3 in ginning and 0.95mg/m3 in the press department, higher than OSHA's permissible exposure limit for respirable dust of 0.2mg/m3 in yarn manufacturing, 0.75mg/m3 in slashing and weaving, and 0.5mg/m3 in nontextile industries using cotton. These samples also showed high concentrations of airborne endotoxin in ginning and pressing (2.77 and 1.52µg/m3 respectively). Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) were also recovered in high numbers. Among the GNB, Enterobacter agglomerans was the dominant species. Results indicate that gin and press workers are occupationally exposed to airborne GNB and endotoxins, and therefore should wear masks. (107260)
CIS 07-1478 Avian influenza/Risk of pandemic - Protection of health care personnel. (French: Grippe aviaire/Risque de pandémie - Protection des personnes travaillant dans le secteur de la santé; German: Vogelgrippe/Pandemie: Schutz des Arbeitnehmenden im Gesundheitswesen) Cartier B., Informations médicales - Medizinische Mitteilungen, 2007, No.78, p.71-73. 8 ref. (In French, German) Internet: In the event where avian influenza would become pandemic, health care personnel would be the most exposed. Swiss law requires that employers implement the necessary preventive measures to ensure the protection of workers. These measures include: information of personnel; use of personal protective equipment; proper application of hygiene measures; early screening of infected persons; separation from other patients and unprotected staff. (107403)
CIS 07-1479 Effectiveness of measures to prevent needlestick injuries among employees in health professions. (German: Wirksamkeit und Wirtschaftlichkeit präventiver Maßnahmen zur Vermeidung von Nadelstichverletzungen bei Beschäftigten in Gesundheitsberufen) Sulsky S.I., Birk T., Cohen L.C., Luippold R.S., Heidenreich M.J., Nunes A., Hauptverband der Gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (Hvbg), Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, Mar. 2006. 122p. 104 ref., ISBN 3-88383-696-6 (En), ISBN 3-88383-708-3 (de) (In English, German) Internet: The pathogens of greatest concern that may be transmitted by a needlestick injury (NSI) are hepatitis B, hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus. The objective of this literature survey was to critically review and summarize the published literature on NSI, with the main focus on studies evaluating the effectiveness and cost aspects of the implementation of safer devices in hospitals. More than 2300 publications were identified, among which 61 met the quality and inclusion criteria. Nurses and physicians were the most likely to report NSI and NSI were most likely to occur in patient and operating rooms. However, widespread underreporting makes it impossible to accurately estimate the risks. Engineering controls, especially the introduction of safety-designed devices, were found to be effective in reducing the number of reported NSI. Other findings are discussed. (107317)
CIS 07-1480 OSHA guidance update on protecting employees from avian flu (avian influenza) viruses. (Spanish: Orientación actualizada de OSHA acerca de cómo proteger a los empleados contra los virus de la gripe aviar (influenza aviar)) Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 2006. 71p. 55 ref. (In English, Spanish) Internet: This health protection guide is aimed at employers whose employees may be exposed to avian influenza (AI) viruses. It contains guidance for poultry employees, animal handlers other than poultry employees, laboratory employees, healthcare workers who treat patients with known or suspected AI, food handlers, airport personnel exposed to passengers suspected of being AI-infected, travelers on temporary work assignment abroad, United States employees stationed abroad and other employee groups that may be at risk. It discusses modes of infection, infection control measures, use of personal protective equipment, vaccination, antiviral drugs and medical supervision of exposed personnel. Appendices provide technical information about AI viruses and, in particular, about H5N1, an AI virus currently circulating in Asia, Europe and Africa that rarely causes disease in humans but when it does, the case fatality rate is high. (107452)
CIS 07-1481 Guide on respiratory protection against bioaerosols - Recommendations for selection and use. (French: Guide sur la protection respiratoire contre les bioaérosols - Recommandations sur le choix et l'utilisation) Lavoie J., Cloutier Y., Lara J., Marchand G., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal H3A 3C2, Quebec, Canada, 2007. v, 30p. Illus. 53 ref. Price: CAD 7.42. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-126-2 (In French) Internet: This guide is primarily aimed at workers in domestic waste sorting centres, wastewater treatment plants, farms, food and beverage processing industries and hospitals. It provides a description of respirators and their filtration mechanisms, together with information on their fit, seal and maintenance. It also provides information on the respiratory protection required for infectious and non-infectious bioaerosols. (107327)
CIS 07-1482 BSE - Occupational guidance. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2007. 31p. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: The first case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) was diagnosed in the United Kingdom in 1986. In the years following this first case the application of a number of control measures led to a sustained decline in cases of this disease in cattle. While the rates have fallen significantly, a small number of positive animals are still detected. Aimed at persons responsible for occupational safety and health, this guidance provides information about BSE and persons whose job could expose to potentially BSE-infected material. It emphasizes the importance of using precautionary protective measures to control the risk from BSE infection. Contents: introduction (description of BSE, its causes, controls in the United Kingdom); occupational risk (routes of transmission, occupations at risk); risk assessment; precautions at work. Appendices include additional guidance for specific occupations and an example of a risk assessment. (107451)
CIS 07-1483 City bus driving and low back pain: A study of the exposures to posture demands, manual materials handling and whole-body vibration. Okunribido O.O., Shimbles S.J., Magnusson M., Pope M., Applied Ergonomics, Jan. 2007, Vol.38, No.1, p.29-38. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: This cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate bus drivers' exposure to posture demands, manual materials handling (MMH) and whole-body vibration as risks for low back pain (LBP). Information about driving experience, sitting posture, MMH, and health history was obtained from 80 bus drivers of a city public transport authority by means of questionnaires. Twelve drivers were observed while driving and vibration measurements were obtained at the seat and according to the recommendations of ISO 2631 (1997) for three models of bus (a mini-bus, a single-decker bus, a double-decker bus). The results showed that city bus drivers spend about 60% of the daily work time actually driving, often with the torso straight or unsupported, perform occasional and light MMH, and experience discomforting vibration shocks. Transient and mild LBP (however not likely to interfere with work or customary levels of activity) was found to be prevalent. (107424)
CIS 07-1484 Ergonomics of abrasive blasting: A comparison of high pressure water and steel shot. Rosenberg B., Yuan L., Fulmer S., Applied Ergonomics, Sep. 2006, Vol.37, No.5, p.659-667. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Abrasive blasting with silica sand has long been associated with silicosis. However, the use of alternative technologies that might save workers' lungs could do so at the expense of their musculoskeletal systems. Hence, the objective of this study was to examine the ergonomic effects of two alternatives to sand blasting, namely high-pressure water and steel shot. PATH, a method for quantifying ergonomic exposure, was combined with interviews with workers, biomechanical modelling and noise level readings. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed. High-pressure water was slightly less ergonomically stressful, environmentally cleaner, much quieter and less dusty that steel shot. However, it was reported to be slower on those tasks where both media could be used. (107477)
CIS 07-1485 Patterns of fatigue among seafarers during a tour of duty. Wadsworth E.J.K., Allen P.H., Wellens B.T., McNamara R.L., Smith A.P., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 2006, Vol.49, No.10, p.836-844. Illus. 53 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to describe the pattern of day to day fatigue among seafarers. Participants from the offshore support, coastal fishing and deep sea sectors of the United Kingdom completed daily diaries. Information on sleep and fatigue were collected each day on waking and retiring. Fatigue on waking was found to be a more sensitive measure of cumulative occupational fatigue than fatigue on retiring. Fatigue on waking increased between the start and end of the time spent on board. This increase took place in particular during the first week at sea and was most apparent among those on shorter tours of duty. Other findings are discussed. The diary method was found useful to identify times and activities associated with the greatest risk. (107436)
CIS 07-1486 Comparison of ergonomic risk assessments in a repetitive high-risk sawmill occupation: Saw-filer. Jones T., Kumar S., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.37, p.744-753. Illus. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: The aims of this study were to compare the results of various ergonomic risk assessment methods, and to examine the association between the measure of risk obtained by applying these methods and incidence rates recorded in practice. Quantified physical exposure information collected from 15 saw-filers in four sawmill facilities was used to calculate the RULA, REBA, ACGIH TLV, Strain Index and OCRA procedures for various postures and efforts. Recorded incidence of upper extremity musculoskeletal injury in the saw-filer position ranged from 0.12 to 0.86 per person year worked. The assessment methodologies examined broadly agreed that a level of risk was associated with performance of the saw-filer job. The sensitivity of each of the risk assessment methods is discussed. (107442)
CIS 07-1487 Office ergonomics: Deficiencies in computer workstation design. Shikdar A.A., Al-Kindi M.A., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.13, No.2, p.215-223. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to identify the ergonomic deficiencies in computer workstation design in typical offices. Physical measurements and a questionnaire were used to study 40 workstations. Major ergonomic deficiencies were found in physical design and layout of the workstations, employee postures, work practices, and training, with significant consequences in terms of workers' health. Forty-five percent of the employees used nonadjustable chairs, 48% of computers faced windows, 90% of the employees used computers more than four hours per day, 45% adopted bent and unsupported back postures and 20% used office tables for computers. Major problems reported were eyestrain (58%), shoulder pain (45%), back pain (43%), arm pain (35%), wrist pain (30%) and neck pain (30%). Strategies to reduce or eliminate ergonomic deficiencies in computer workstation design are suggested. (107395)
CIS 07-1488 Allowing for MSD prevention during facilities planning for a public service: An a posteriori analysis of 10 library design projects. Bellemare M., Trudel L., Ledoux E., Montreuil S., Marier M., Laberge M., Vincent P., International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2006, Vol.12, No.4, p.387-397. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: This research was conducted to identify an ergonomics-based intervention model designed to include musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) prevention in the design phase of library projects. The first stage of the research involved an a posteriori analysis of ten recent public library redesign projects in the province of Quebec, Canada. The purpose of the analysis was to document perceptions about the attention given to MSD prevention measures over the course of a project by librarians responsible for such projects and the personnel working in the libraries before and after changes. Subjects were interviewed in focus groups. Findings are discussed. (107416)
CIS 07-1489 Ergonomic analysis of postural and muscular loads to diagnostic sonographers. Village J., Trask C., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.37, p.781-789. Illus. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent among sonographers. The aim of this study was to quantify the postural and muscular loads during ultrasound scanning. Video-based postural analysis of 11 sonographers showed that sonographers spend 68% of scanning time with a shoulder abduction of more than 30°, 63% with shoulder outward rotation of more than 30° and 37% with the neck bent forward, laterally or twisted by more than 20°. The shoulder was observed to be unsupported, or static, for 73% of the time. Electromyography was carried out during scans performed by three sonographers on three shoulder muscles. It is observed that diagnostic sonographers experience long durations in static shoulder abduction and outward rotation, with high peak and sustained grip forces. These risk factors are consistent with the high prevalence of neck and upper limb musculoskeletal disorders and symptoms reported by many sonographers. (107443)
CIS 07-1490 Risk management: Work and organizational factors. Cox T., Mackay C.J., Cousins R., Kelly P.J., Lee S., McCraig R.H., Clarke S.D., Kelly C., Kompier M., Mustard C., Walls C., Darby F., Bond F.W., Work and Stress, Apr.-June 2004, Vol.18, No.2, p.89-148. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: Collection of articles on work-related stress, risk management and management standards. Topics addressed: policy and practical development in the field of management standards and work-related stress in the United Kingdom; New Zealand government approach to stress and fatigue; need for an approach to occupational health that takes account of both individual and organizational factors. (107281)
CIS 07-1491 The OHS consultant as a facilitator of learning in workplace design processes: Four explorative case studies of current practice. Broberg O., Hermund I., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.37, p.810-816. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this explorative study was to survey current practices of occupational health service (OHS) consultants in Denmark and to put forward recommendations on how to improve the learning aspects of OHS consultancy relating to workplace design. Four OSH consultancy centres were studied by qualitative methods (questionnaires and interviews). It was found that learning takes place when the OHS consultant works across the client's organizational departments and facilitates meetings between actors from different parts of the organization. For both industry and OHS units, it is important to properly understand learning models and to align mutual expectations to the learning aspects of OHS consultancy. (107444)
CIS 07-1492 The effects of occupational health and safety management on work environment and health: A prospective study. Torp S., Moen B.E., Applied Ergonomics, Nov. 2006, Vol.37, No.6, p.775-783. Illus. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: All companies in Norway are required to have an occupational safety and health (OSH) management system. This study investigated the effects of implementing or improving OSH management on the work environment, safety behaviour and musculoskeletal health of workers in small and medium-sized companies. A one-year prospective cohort study, using self-administered questionnaires, was performed among the managers and blue-collar workers in 226 motor vehicle repair garages. Out of 1559 workers that responded at baseline, 721 workers could be identified at follow-up. The analysis focussed on these 721 workers. It was found that workers in companies with improved OSH management from baseline to follow-up reported increased satisfaction with the OSH activities at the garage, improved support from management and colleagues, improved health-related support and control and increased participation in OSH activities. (107419)
CIS 07-1493 Lifting and carrying aids in rescue work. (German: Hebe- und Tragehilfen im Rettungsdienst) Müller-Arnecke H.W., Bleyer T., Hold U., Macheleidt M., Rademacher U., Windel A., Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2007. 139p. Illus. 63 ref. Price: EUR 15.00., ISBN 978-3-86509-627-2 (In German) Internet: The lifting and carrying equipment used by personnel working in rescue services was evaluated mainly in simulation tests by examining specific aspects. In collaboration with local rescue services, motion sequences, physical postures, joint angle positions of the hand-arm system during transport on two different courses were examined and various assessment schemes were used and developed further. These evaluations allowed collecting detailed information on motion sequences in both theory and practice. Findings show that there are gaps in information concerning carrying equipment design, focal load points and assessment specifications. Recommendations are made on the design and selection of carrying aids and on assessment methods for their ergonomic evaluation. (107468)
CIS 07-1494 Electromyography for assessing muscular strain in the workplace. Sillanpää J., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2007. 76p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 23.00., ISBN 978-951-802-774-7 (In English) Internet: This study assesses the use of electromyography (EMG) in ergonomic interventions. A first step involved a literature survey, which formed the basis for the development of theoretical framework. Next, changes in EMG amplitude were evaluated before and after ergonomic interventions for the following work tasks: use of auxiliary handling devices in the construction industry; change in a tool and work method used in upholstered furniture manufacturing; change in work methods in work with a computer mouse; adjustable table for work with a microscope. The results indicate that ergonomic solutions can be found for common musculoskeletal risk factors, and the effect can be confirmed with EMG amplitude analysis. (107390)
CIS 07-1495 Psychosocial work characteristics and sickness absence in Japanese employees. Ishizaki M., Kawakami N., Honda R., Nakagawa H., Morikawa Y., Yamada Y., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Sep. 2006, Vol.79, No.8, p.640-646. 33 ref. (In English) Internet: This cross-sectional study was undertaken to examine the association between sickness absence in Japanese employees and job demand/control and occupational class as psychosocial work characteristics. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire from 20,464 male and 3,617 female employees. A comparison was made between the group with more than six days of sickness absence in the preceding year and the group with 0-6 days of sickness absence. Job demands, job control, and worksite support from supervisors and colleagues were analysed by the Job Content Questionnaire and the NIOSH Generic Job Stress Questionnaire. Both low job control and low support at the worksite were associated with a high frequency of sickness absence. But there was no clear relationship between job demands and sickness absence. The lowest sickness absence rate was found in male managers and the highest in male and female labourers. Other findings are discussed. (107273)
CIS 07-1496 Economic activities and occupations at high risk for workplace bullying: Results from a large-scale cross-sectional survey in the general working population in France. Niedhammer I., David S., Degioanni S., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Feb. 2007, Vol.80, No.4, p.346-353. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of workplace bullying in the general working population in France and to explore this prevalence across sectors of activity and occupations. The studied population consisted of a randomly-selected sample of 3,132 men and 4,562 women of the general working population in the southeast of France, who completed a self-administered questionnaire on bullying. The 12 month prevalence of workplace bullying was 9% for men and 11% for women. Other findings are discussed. (107428)
CIS 07-1497 Reported incidence and precipitating factors of work-related stress and mental ill-health in the United Kingdom (1996-2001). Cherry N.M., Chen Y., McDonald J.C., Occupational Medicine, 2006, No.56, p.414-421. Illus. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to estimate the incidence of work-related stress and mental illness reported by occupational physicians and psychiatrists in the United Kingdom. Annual average incidence rates were calculated by sex, occupation and industry against appropriate populations at risk. For the period between 1996 and 2001, annual averages of 3624 new cases were reported by psychiatrists, and 2718 by occupational physicians. The rates were higher for men in reports based on the former and for women on the latter. Most diagnoses were of anxiety and depression or work-related stress, with post-traumatic stress accounting for around 10% of cases reported by psychiatrists. High rates of mental ill-health are observed among professional and associated workers and in those in personal and protective services. Factors (such as work overload) intrinsic to the job and issues with interpersonal relations were the most common causes overall. (107448)
CIS 07-1498 Job strain and adverse health behaviors: The Finnish public sector study. Kouvonen A., Kivimäki M., Väänänen A., Heponiemi T., Elovainio M., Ala-Mursula L., Virtanen M., Pentti J., Linna A., Vahtera J., Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2007, Vol.49, No.1, p.68-74. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this cross-sectional study was to explore the association between job strain and smoking, heavy drinking, obesity and physical inactivity. Subjects included 34,058 female and 8154 male public sector employees in Finland. Data were collected by means of postal questionnaires. Regression models showed that high job strain and passive jobs were associated with 1.3 to 1.4 times higher odds of having three or more adverse health behaviours. Among men, low job control was associated with a 1.3-fold likelihood of having three or more adverse health behaviours, while among women active jobs were associated with a 1.2-fold likelihood of having three or more adverse behaviours. High demands were associated with a higher likelihood of co-occurrence of one to two adverse behaviours among women. It is concluded that adverse job conditions may increase the likelihood of co-occurring health risk behaviours. Reducing work stress by increasing job control and decreasing psychological demands might help efforts to promote healthy lifestyles. (107486)
CIS 07-1499 World report on violence against children. Pinheiro P.S., United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), United Nations, Sales Section, 1211 Genève 10, Switzerland, 2006. xix, 364p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 978-92-95057-51-7 (In English) Internet: This report is part of a global effort to provide a detailed description of the nature, extent and causes of violence against children, and to propose clear recommendations for preventive action. It draws together existing research and relevant information about the forms, causes and impact of violence which affects children and young people up to the age of 18 years. Data were also collected since 2003 through consultations, working groups and questionnaires. It presents the reality of violence against children around the world, together with the preventive actions being undertaken at international, regional, national and local levels. (107316)
CIS 07-1500 Cancer survivors at work - Work-related factors associated with their employment, work ability and social support from the work community. Taskila T., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2007. 82p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: EUR 23.00., ISBN 978-951-802-777-8 (In English) Internet: Due to the improved prognosis of many forms of cancer, an increasing number of cancer survivors are able and willing to return to work after their treatment. This study investigated the problems that cancer survivors experience on the labour market, as well as the socio-demographic and psychosocial factors associated with their employment and work ability. The results show that the majority of the survivors are able to return to work. There is, however, a group of cancer survivors who leave work life early, have impaired work ability due to their illness, and suffer from lack of support from their work place and the occupational health services. (107389)
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