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ILO-CIS Bulletin 2008/03CIS 08-501 --- CIS 08-750Laws, regulations, directivesCIS 08-501 Organic law on prevention, working conditions and work environment [Venezuela]. Gaceta oficial de la República de Venezuela, 26 July 2005, No.38.236, p.1-39. (In ) Internet: Reformed organic law of 1986 on prevention, conditions and environment of work, published on 26 July 2005 (replaces CIS 87-4). Its aims are to promote the physical, mental and social well-being of workers, to prevent all risks of safety and health impairment due to working conditions, to offer workers work that is both decent and suited to their aptitude, and to guarantee and protect the rights of employees and employers with respect to safety, health, working conditions and rest periods. It sets out the responsibilities of employers and the penalties in cases of violation of the provisions. (108044)
CIS 08-502 Workplaces - Royal Decree 486/1997 (14 April) [Spain]. (Spanish: Lugares de trabajo - Real Decreto 486/1997, de 14 de abril [España]) Ministerio de trabajo y asuntos sociales, Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2007. 19p., ISBN 978-84-7425-747-2 (In Spanish) Internet: Full text of the Royal Decree 486/1997 (14 April) establishing minimum safety and health requirements for the workplace (CIS 97-1067) modified by Royal Decree 2177/2007 (12 November). Contents: general provisions; obligations of the employer (general; workplace design and layout; housekeeping, cleanliness and maintenance; signs; service and protection installations; working environment conditions; lighting; hygiene and restroom facilities; first aid; information and consultation of workers; workers' participation); obligation of the Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo to issue a Technical Guide concerning the evaluation and prevention of risks connected with the use of workplaces. Appendices include: detailed OSH requirements (general safety conditions; housekeeping, cleanliness and maintenance; environmental conditions; lighting; hygiene and restroom facilities; first aid material and rooms). (108194)
CIS 08-503 Act No.2004-017 on the Labour Code [Mauritania]. (French: Loi N° 2004-017 portant code du travail [Mauritanie]) Ministère de l'Emploi, de l'Insertion et de la Formation Professionnelle, http://www.emploi.gov.mr/MEIFP/Left/Presentation/presentation.htm, Nouakchott, Mauritania, 2004. v, 222p. (In French) Internet: The new labour code in Mauritania, which applies to all wage earners in the country with the exception of civil servants and those in a contractual relationship with a government body. Book III deals with working conditions (Section I: Women and children at work; Section V: Health and safety; Section VI: Enterprise health services). Book VII deals with consultative bodies, including the Consultative health and safety commission. (108248)
CIS 08-504 Decree No.5.078 concerning the partial regulation of the organic law on prevention, working conditions and work environment [Venezuela]. (Spanish: Decreto N° 5.078 mediante el cual se dicta el Reglamento parcial de la Ley orgánica de prevención, condiciones y medio ambiente de trabajo [Venezuela]) Gaceta oficial de la República de Venezuela, 3 Jan. 2007, No.38.596, p.1-38. (In Spanish) Internet: Decree No.5.078 of 22 December 2006 concerning the partial regulation of the reformed organic law on prevention, conditions and environment of work published on 26 July 2005 (see CIS 08-501). The aim of this application decree is to promote the physical, mental and social well-being of workers, to prevent all risks of safety and health impairment due to working conditions, to offer workers work that is both decent and suited to their capacity, and to guarantee and protect the rights of employees and employers with respect to safety, health, working conditions and rest periods. (108043)
CIS 08-505 Occupational safety and health [Angola]. (Portuguese: Segurança e higiene no local de trabalho) Ministério da Administração Pública, Emprego e Segurança Social (MAPESS), Luanda, Angola, Oct. 2007. 92p. Illus. (In Portuguese) Internet: This booklet includes the full texts of the following legislation on occupational safety and health: Decree No.31/94 of 5 Aug.1994 concerning the occupational safety, hygiene and health system (CIS 95-1928); Executive Decree No.6/96 of 2 Feb. 1996, approving the General regulations concerning occupational safety and health services in enterprises (CIS 03-506); Executive Decree No.21/98 of 30 Apr. 1998, approving the General regulations concerning occupational safety committees (CIS 03-507); Executive Decree No.128/04 of 23 Nov. 2004, approving the general regulation of safety and health signs at work (CIS 06-1252). (108191)
CIS 08-506 Real Decree No.1299/2006, of 10 Nov., approving the schedule of occupational diseases within the social security system and by which notification and registration criteria are established [Spain]. (Spanish: Real Decreto 1299/2006, de 10 de noviembre, por el que se aprueba el cuadro de enfermedades profesionales en el sistema de la Seguridad Social y se establecen criterios para su notificación y registro.) Boletín Oficial del Estado, 19 Dec. 2006, No.302, p.44,487-44,546. (In Spanish) Internet: Real Decree (effective 1 Jan. 2007) establishing the schedule of occupational diseases within the Spanish Social Security System. Contents: approval and updating of the schedule of occupational diseases; who will determine whether a specific disease qualifies as occupational; notification of occupational diseases; repeal of past provisions on the same subject, in particular Real Decree 1995/1978 and Decree 3772/1972. In annex: classified schedule (with codes) of accepted occupational diseases; complementary list of diseases that may prove to be professional in origin and which may be included in future schedules. (108244)
CIS 08-507 Construction sites - Royal Decree 1627/1997 (24 October) [Spain]. (Spanish: Obras de construcción - Real Decreto 1627/1997, de 24 de octubre [España]) Ministerio de trabajo y asuntos sociales, Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2007. 24p., ISBN 978-84-7425-743-4 (In Spanish) Internet: Full text of the Royal Decree 1627/1997 (24 October) establishing the minimum safety and health requirements for construction sites (CIS 97-1776) modified by Royal Decree 2177/2007 (12 November), Royal Decree 604/2006 (19 May) and Royal Decree 1109/2007 (24 August). Contents: scope; definitions; measures to be taken during different stages of the work, in particular the appointment of health and safety co-ordinators and the development of a health and safety plan; responsibilities of contractors, sub-contractors and self-employed workers; maintenance of incident records; rights of workers to information and consultation. (108195)
CIS 08-508 Radiological Protection Act, 1991 (Ionising Radiation) Order, 2000 [Ireland]. Government Publications Sales Office, Sun Alliance House, Molesworth Street, Dublin 2, Ireland, 2000. 1 vol. (In English) Internet: Regulations (effective 13 May 2000) that give effect to Council Directive 96/29/EURATOM (see CIS 96-1943) and Council Directive 90/641/Euratom (see CIS 94-18). They apply to all practices involving a risk from ionizing radiation emanating from an artificial source or from a natural radiation source in cases where natural radionuclides are being or have been processed in view of their radioactive, fissile or fertile properties. Contents: interpretation and scope; regulation of practices and work activities; justification, optimization and dose limitation; estimation of effective dose; protection of exposed workers, apprentices and students; work activities involving natural radiation sources; radiation protection of the population for practices in normal circumstances; intervention and emergency preparedness. The Radiological Protection Act, 1991 (General Control of Radioactive Substances, Nuclear Devices and Irradiating Apparatus) Order, 1993 is revoked. Seven schedules, including: dose limits (20mSv for exposed workers in a period of 12 months, with various additional qualifications for specific groups); reporting criteria depending on threshold amounts of specific radioactive susbstances. (108249)
CIS 08-509 Health and Safety - The Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Safety) Regulations 2006 [United Kingdom]. TSO (The Stationery Office), P.O. Box 29, Norwich NR3 1GN, United Kingdom, 2006. 40p. Price: GBP 6.50 (Free downloead from the Internet)., ISBN 0-11-074307-5 (In English) Internet: These Regulations impose prohibitions and requirements in relation to safety on railways and other guided transport systems (tramways etc.). Contents: interpretation; safety management, certification and authorization; general duties in relation to safety; safety critical work. Some regulations are repealed, including the following: the Railways (Safety Case) Regulations 2000 (with amendments) (see CIS 02-1449) and the Railways (Safety Critical Work) Regulations 1994 (see CIS 94-1461). In schedules: safety management system; application for a safety certificate; common safety indicators; written safety verification scheme requirements. (108053)
Chemical data sheets and criteria documentsCIS 08-510 Chromium and compounds. (French: Chrome et composés) Hoet P., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2007, No.154, 11p. 61 ref. (In French) Internet: This review article on chromium (Cr) and its compounds covers the following aspects: oxidation states, their stability and occurrence in the environment; uses (alloys, refractory materials, cement, pigments); toxicokinetics; low toxicity of Cr(III) and toxicity of Cr(VI) (skin irritation and allergies, nasal septum ulceration and perforation, and lung cancer in cases of prolonged inhalation exposure, renal tubular necrosis). (108222)
CIS 08-511 Nickel and compounds. (French: Nickel et composés) Hoet P., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2007, No.154, 9p. 65 ref. (In French) Internet: This review article on nickel (Ni) and its compounds covers the following aspects: routes of entry (ingestion from the consumption of food, skin exposure, inhalation exposure in occupational settings); toxicity (allergic dermatitis, possible nasal cavity and lung cancer). Exposure to metallic nickel has not been found to cause cancer in workers. There is a lack of evidence of a carcinogenic risk from oral exposure to nickel. The acute toxicity of nickel carbonyl is particularly high. (108224)
Training materials and practical informationCIS 08-512 Domestic accidents: Why do they happen? How can they be prevented?. (Spanish: Accidentes en el hogar: ¿Por qué ocurren? ¿Cómo defenderse?) Ministerio de trabajo y asuntos sociales, Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2006. 61p. Illus., ISBN 84-7425-438-8 (In Spanish) Internet: The home can also be a hazardous location given the presence of electrical or gas systems, motor-driven equipment, sharp objects or toxic substances. This booklet describes various types of domestic accidents and explains how they can be avoided. Contents: falls of persons; poisoning, allergies and irritations; burns; fire and explosions; electrocution; asphyxiation; entanglement, striking against objects and injuries caused by excessive efforts; injuries; check-list for verifying the safety of various rooms in the home; safe toys. (108196)
CIS 08-513 Role of the joint committee for occupational hygiene and safety. (Spanish: Las funciones del comité paritario de higiene y seguridad) Programa de economía del trabajo, Instituto Laboral Andino (ILA), Av. Paseo de la República 3832 - Oficina 502, Lima 2, Peru, [2007?]. 40p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This educational booklet describes the various tasks that are incumbent upon the joint committee for occupational hygiene and safety: functions ascribed by law; monitoring of working conditions and of compliance with preventive measures; surveillance; follow-up of occupational accident and disease files; occupational safety and health advisory and training services for workers; jury function in cases of accidents due to workers' negligence; compilation of occupational accident and disease statistics; differences between the joint committee and workers' organizations. (108045)
CIS 08-514 Occupational asthma - Information and prevention. (French: Asthme au travail - Information et prévention) Gautrin D., Daigle S., Goyer N., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, Sep. 2007. 6p. Illus. 6 ref., ISBN 978-2-89631-161-3 (In French) Internet: In order to adopt suitable measures for the prevention of occupational asthma and rhinitis, it is important to understand the health hazards in various vocational training and occupational settings. This leaflet addresses the issue of the prevention of occupational asthma and rhinitis in general terms. It explains what constitute asthma and rhinitis, together with their diagnosis and treatment. The allergens most frequently encountered in various occupational sectors are summarized in a table. Together with this leaflet presenting these two respiratory diseases in general terms, the IRSST published six other leaflets covering specific occupational activities in more detail (see CIS 08-515/520), explaining the risk factors and proposing suitable preventive measures. (108238)
CIS 08-515 Occupational asthma - Plastering. (French: Asthme au travail - Plâtrage) Roberge B., Audet E., Gautrin D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, Sep. 2007. 6p. Illus. 3 ref., ISBN 978-2-89631-155-2 (In French) Internet: In order to adopt suitable measures for the prevention of occupational asthma and rhinitis, it is important to understand the health hazards in various vocational training and occupational settings. The IRSST published a leaflet presenting these two respiratory diseases in general terms (see CIS 08-514), together with six other leaflets covering specific occupational activities in more detail, explaining the risk factors and proposing suitable preventive measures. This leaflet specifically addresses occupational asthma and rhinitis in plastering, together with the means of protection against specific allergens encountered in this work environment (lime, plaster, calcium carbonate, isocyanates). (108235)
CIS 08-516 Occupational asthma - Carpentry and woodworking. (French: Asthme au travail - Charpenterie et menuiserie) Roberge B., Audet E., Gautrin D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, Sep. 2007. 6p. Illus. 3 ref., ISBN 978-2-89631-151-4 (In French) Internet: In order to adopt suitable measures for the prevention of occupational asthma and rhinitis, it is important to understand the health hazards in various vocational training and occupational settings. The IRSST published a leaflet presenting these two respiratory diseases in general terms (see CIS 08-514), together with six other leaflets covering specific occupational activities in more detail, explaining the risk factors and proposing suitable preventive measures. This leaflet specifically addresses occupational asthma and rhinitis in the carpentry and woodworking sector, together with the means of protection against specific allergens encountered in this work environment (wood dust, adhesives, solvents, isocyanates, silica). (108233)
CIS 08-517 Occupational asthma - The bakery and confectionery industry. (French: Asthme au travail - Boulangerie et pâtisserie) Roberge B., Audet E., Gautrin D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, Sep. 2007. 6p. Illus. 3 ref., ISBN 978-2-89631-149-1 (In French) Internet: In order to adopt suitable measures for the prevention of occupational asthma and rhinitis, it is important to understand the health hazards in various vocational training and occupational settings. The IRSST published a leaflet presenting these two respiratory diseases in general terms (see CIS 08-514), together with six other leaflets covering specific occupational activities in more detail, explaining the risk factors and proposing suitable preventive measures. This leaflet specifically addresses occupational asthma and rhinitis in the bakery and confectionary sector, together with the means of protection against specific allergens encountered in this work environment (wheat proteins, egg proteins, natural enzymes, cleaning agents). (108232)
CIS 08-518 Occupational asthma - Dental hygiene. (French: Asthme au travail - Hygiène dentaire) Roberge B., Audet E., Gautrin D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, Sep. 2007. 6p. Illus. 4 ref., ISBN 978-2-89631-153-8 (In French) Internet: In order to adopt suitable measures for the prevention of occupational asthma and rhinitis, it is important to understand the health hazards in various vocational training and occupational settings. The IRSST published a leaflet presenting these two respiratory diseases in general terms (see CIS 08-514), together with six other leaflets covering specific occupational activities in more detail, explaining the risk factors and proposing suitable preventive measures. This leaflet specifically addresses occupational asthma and rhinitis among dental hygienists, together with the means of protection against specific allergens encountered in this work environment (acrylates, silica, plaster, cleaning agents, latex proteins). (108234)
CIS 08-519 Occupational asthma - Animal health. (French: Asthme au travail - Santé animale) Roberge B., Audet E., Gautrin D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, Sep. 2007. 6p. Illus. 3 ref., ISBN 978-2-89631-157-6 (In French) Internet: In order to adopt suitable measures for the prevention of occupational asthma and rhinitis, it is important to understand the health hazards in various vocational training and occupational settings. The IRSST published a leaflet presenting these two respiratory diseases in general terms (see CIS 08-514), together with six other leaflets covering specific occupational activities in more detail, explaining the risk factors and proposing suitable preventive measures. This leaflet specifically addresses occupational asthma and rhinitis in the animal health sector, together with the means of protection against specific allergens encountered in this work environment (animal proteins, latex proteins, formaldehyde, chlorhexidine, cleaning agents). (108236)
CIS 08-520 Occupational asthma - Plumbing and heating. (French: Asthme au travail - Plomberie et chauffage) Roberge B., Audet E., Gautrin D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, Sep. 2007. 6p. Illus. 4 ref., ISBN 978-2-89631-159-0 (In French) Internet: In order to adopt suitable measures for the prevention of occupational asthma and rhinitis, it is important to understand the health hazards in various vocational training and occupational settings. The IRSST published a leaflet presenting these two respiratory diseases in general terms (see CIS 08-514), together with six other leaflets covering specific occupational activities in more detail, explaining the risk factors and proposing suitable preventive measures. This leaflet specifically addresses occupational asthma and rhinitis among plumbing and heating systems workers, together with the means of protection against specific allergens encountered in this work environment (metal fumes, zinc chloride, solvents, nitrogen oxides, mineral oils). (108237)
CIS 08-521 Chemicals during resin coating ... Protect yourself!. (French: Produits chimiques lors de l'application des résines... Protégez-vous!) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 2005. 6p. Illus. Price: EUR 0.50. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1298-2 (In French) Internet: The aim of this leaflet is to increase the awareness for chemical hazards among operators involved in the coating of chemical resins, and presents the basic prevention measures in ways that are simple to implement. (108082)
CIS 08-522 Hazardous waste within the enterprise. Think safety!. (French: Déchets dangereux dans l'entreprise. Pensez sécurité!) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed., Decr. 2006. 6p. Illus. 7ref. Index. Price: EUR 0.50. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1429-2 (In French) Internet: Hazardous waste occurs in all industrial activities. This leaflet summarizes the approach to be adopted for hazard identification and for organizing the collection, packaging, storage, treatment and removal of hazardous waste in compliance with safety and regulations. (108084)
CIS 08-523 Safety and health in the use of chemicals at work - A training manual. (Malay: Keselamatan dan kesihatan dalam penggunaan bahan kimia du tempat kerja - Manual latihan) Che Man A.B., Gold D., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. x, 146p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 967-70-0908-7 (In English, Malay) Internet: Bilingual version (English and Malay translation) of a training manual originally published in English (see CIS 93-789). Contents: health hazards due to chemical exposure (factors contributing to hazardous situations, toxic effects of chemicals); fire and explosion hazards; basic principles of prevention (elimination or substitution, organizational control); chemical emergency procedures (emergency plan, evacuation, first aid, fire fighting, spill and leak procedures); management of a chemical control programme. Appendices include a training checklist for safe use of chemicals at work, text of the ILO Chemicals Convention and Recommendation, and guidance on the classification, identification and labelling of chemicals. (108094)
CIS 08-524 Got everything covered?. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Jan. 2008. 1p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This poster provides practical tips to protect workers from the hazards of isocyanate exposure during spray-on truck bedliner applications. These tips include wearing a supplied-air respirator, using shields with peel-off visors, wearing chemical resistant protective clothing and gloves, ensuring that the ventilation system is operating correctly, washing hands and face after each spraying and consulting a doctor in case of shortness of breath or skin irritation. (108112)
CIS 08-525 Why wear gloves and how to get rid of contaminated gloves. (French: Pourquoi porter des gants et comment ôter les gants souillés) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Sep. 2007. 4p. Illus. Price: EUR 2.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1579-5 (In French) Internet: Comic strip giving advice on wearing and removing single-use and re-usable protective gloves. (108071)
CIS 08-526 Safety and health in the use of agrochemicals: A guide. (Arabic: Dalīl al-salāma wa al-suha - A@_tnā ist(imāl al-mawād al-kīmīa'īa al-zira(īa) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2006. 81p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In Arabic) Internet: Arabic translation of a training manual aimed primarily at workers in developing countries (see CIS 91-792). Contents: safety and health aspects (how dangerous substances enter the body, classification, labelling and identification, safe handling and use, disposal of waste, operational control and use of personal protective equipment); poisoning by agrochemicals, its management and emergency responses (types and symptoms of poisoning and injury, first-aid treatment, role of poison information centres, effects of temperature and fire emergencies); roles and responsibilities of manufacturers, government agencies, retailers, employers, workers and the public; education and training; case histories illustrating accidents resulting from improper use of agrochemicals in developing countries. (108093)
CIS 08-527 Dust in the nook of the woods. (French: Les poussières au coin du bois) Mahieu J.C., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, June 2004. 6p. Illus. Price: EUR 1.50. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-1271-0 (In French) Internet: Dusts formed during woodworking can affect human health, either by contact or inhalation. This leaflet recalls the preventive measures against exposure to wood dust and includes the table of occupational diseases caused by wood dust that are recognized in France. (108083)
CIS 08-528 Inquiring ears want to know: A fact sheet about your hearing test. Hudak R.L., Schulz T.Y., Randolph R.F., Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Nov. 2008. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Many workers receive an audiogram (hearing test) at some point, especially if they are in a hearing conservation program. This information sheet contains important answers to frequent questions workers ask about their audiograms. It addresses why workers should get regularly have their hearing tested, how to understand audiograms and why the results should be saved to help evaluate and maintain the worker's hearing. It also includes some basic information on the causes of hearing loss and how to prevent it. (108113)
CIS 08-529 They're your ears. Protect them. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Oct. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: This leaflet encourages young farmers to protect their ears from noise. A 25-year-old farmer can often have the ears of a 50-year-old who is not exposed to noise and not even know it. The leaflet is designed to increase the awareness of young farmers below the age of 35 and their families about the relationship between farm noise and the early onset of tinnitus and hearing loss. See also CIS 08-530. (108117)
CIS 08-530 Have you heard? Hearing loss caused by farm noise is preventable: Young farmers' guide for selecting and using hearing protection. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: Aimed at farmers aged below 35 years and their families, this leaflet presents an overview the variety of hearing protectors available and when and how to use them. Contents: fitting formable plugs; fitting pre-moulded plugs; fitting canal caps; tips on using hearing protection; buying hearing protection; common noise levels. See also CIS 08-529. (108118)
CIS 08-531 Protect your hands. (French: Sauvegardez vos mains) Organisme Professionnel de Prévention du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics (OPPBTP), Tour Amboise, 204, rond-point du Pont-de-Sèvres, 92516 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France, 1995. 21p. Illus. Price: EUR 10.50., ISBN 2-7354-0246-0 (In French) Internet: Contents of this safety guide aimed at protecting the hands from accidental injuries during woodworking: sharpening; protection from and use of band saws, bench-type circular saws, radial saws, surface planers and spindle moulders. (108069)
CIS 08-532 Look sharp. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Nov. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: NIOSH researchers worked with professional tattoo artists to figure out how they can be exposed to blood and blood-borne pathogens. Based on visits to piercing and tattooing shops and interviews with practicing artists, various communication materials were developed to better inform artists of these diseases, explain how artists can be exposed and reinforce safe practices to reduce the chances of exposure. This information card addresses the issues of handling and disposing sharps within this sector of activity. See also CIS 08-533/534. (108111)
CIS 08-533 Good, clean art. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Nov. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: NIOSH researchers worked with professional tattoo artists to figure out how they can be exposed to blood and blood-borne pathogens. Based on visits to piercing and tattooing shops and interviews with practicing artists, various communication materials were developed to better inform artists of these diseases, explain how artists can be exposed and reinforce safe practices to reduce the chances of exposure. This information card explains how to reduce cross-contamination within the body art sector. See also CIS 08-532 and 08-534. (108115)
CIS 08-534 Let art be your legacy. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Nov. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: NIOSH researchers worked with professional tattoo artists to figure out how they can be exposed to blood and blood-borne pathogens. Based on visits to piercing and tattooing shops and interviews with practicing artists, various communication materials were developed to better inform artists of these diseases, explain how artists can be exposed and reinforce safe practices to reduce the chances of exposure. This information card explains how contamination by hepatitis B occurs; it suggests that body artists be vaccinated against hepatitis B and that they attend yearly blood-borne pathogen training. See also CIS 08-532/533. (108116)
CIS 08-535 Encourage your workers to report blood-borne pathogen exposures. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: NIOSH researchers visited a number of prisons to learn more about current practices and procedures being used to protect health care workers from blood-borne diseases. Aimed at prison medical service administrators and supervisors, this leaflet provides explains why workers are sometimes reluctant to report exposure to blood-borne pathogens in correctional facilities and how to encourage them to report. (108120)
CIS 08-536 Bloodborne pathogen exposure. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 1p. Illus. (In English) Internet: NIOSH researchers visited a number of prisons and jails to learn more about current practices and procedures being used to protect health care workers from blood borne-diseases. This poster is meant to be informative and reinforce how workers of prison health services can protect themselves from the risk of blood-borne disease transmission. (108129)
CIS 08-537 Protect your employees with an exposure control plan. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: NIOSH researchers visited a number of prisons and jails to learn more about current practices and procedures being used to protect health care workers from blood-borne diseases. This leaflet provides tips to medical service administrators and supervisors for improving the plans aimed at protecting workers from exposure to blood-borne pathogens, which are required by OSHA. These tips include information on the exposure control plan, workers' participation in the selection of equipment, supply and use of personal protective equipment and designating persons responsible for the implementation of the plan and of the vaccination policy. (108130)
Periodicals, books, databases, audiovisualsCIS 08-538 Contractor safety: Building trust and communication. Ayers D., Occupational Hazards, Oct. 2007, p.64-74. Illus. (In English) Internet: The effective management of contractor safety is not only necessary for the protection of their employees, but also for the protection of regular employees and facility property and equipment. This article discusses how to choose a contractor with the experience and ability to complete the job safely and to manage the contractual relationship with an eye to occupational safety and health. Topics addressed: setting expectations; contractor selection; chemical safety; contractor orientation; contractor auditing. (108028)
CIS 08-539 Safety roundtable: Looking inside the EHS crystal ball. Walter L., Occupational Hazards, Dec. 2007, p.24-26. Illus. (In English) Internet: A panel of industry leaders was asked to give a forecast of future trends in workplace safety. The discussion revealed a variety of emerging trends that could impact the practice of safety in the future. Some were familiar themes, such as globalization, the aging workforce, nanotechnology and OSHA's role in worker safety. Other predictions were less expected, including the possibility that human resource departments might play a big role in defining safety culture, that the greening movement could attract young talent to the field or the selection of protective equipment of known brands may encourage their use among workers. All respondents agreed on the need for safety professionals to broaden their focus and adapt to a changing and expanding field. (108142)
CIS 08-540 Facing the unthinkable: Fatality prevention in the workplace. Walter L., Occupational Hazards, Jan. 2008, p.32-39. Illus. (In English) Internet: In 2006 in the United States, 5703 people died on the job, following poor decisions and system failures that might have been avoided with better information or preparation. Preventing workplace fatalities is the indisputable goal of all safety management systems, but too often, the system breaks down: some employers fail in their leadership roles; well-meaning safety managers approach fatality prevention from the wrong direction; employees develop feelings of invincibility, which can result in a workplace fatality. This article reviews a two-day workshop on occupational deaths which took place in November 2007. Among the issues discussed were complacency, under-reporting, pressure to produce profits, lack of leadership, employee turnover, outsourcing and subcontracting. The objectives of the European Risk Observatory are presented and key statistics of worker fatalities in the United States are summarized. (108146)
CIS 08-541 Behaviour-based safety. (Spanish: Seguridad basada en la conducta) Gutiérrez J.M., Prevención, Oct.-Dec. 2007, No.182, p.20-26. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This article presents the process of behaviour-based safety, a method based on observation and feedback. Workers observe how various tasks are carried out by their colleagues, and positive or negative remarks are discussed with the objective of improving safety within the enterprise. The behaviour-based safety method includes four key elements: workers' participation and management involvement; systematic approach; observation walks within the enterprise aimed at improving working methods; positive feedback. (108206)
CIS 08-542 Model based on three conditions: Guide for the diagnosis and safety intervention. (Spanish: El modelo tricondicional: una guía para el diagnóstico y la intervención en prevención) Meliá J.L., Prevención, Oct.-Dec. 2007, No.182, p.38-50. Illus. 2 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: A safe work model based on three conditions is presented. To understand the model, one needs to start from the principle that occupational safety involves a continuous cycle of three phases: safety evaluation or diagnosis (problems, strong points); treatment or intervention (methods to be applied, measures to be implemented); evaluation of results (changes having occurred, modifications to be implemented). Within this context, three conditions need to be filled to ensure that workers carry out their work safely: their aptitude for the work; their understanding of the work; their willingness to do the work. (108208)
CIS 08-543 Occupational injury mortality: New Mexico 1998-2002. Mulloy K.B., Moraga-McHaley S., Crandall C., Kesler D.O., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007, Vol.50, p.910-920. Illus. 48 ref. (In English) Internet: The current study characterizes patterns of occupational injury fatalities in New Mexico for the 5-year period 1998-2002. Annual occupational injury mortality rates ranged from 4.4 to 7.6 per 100,000 employed persons aged 16 and over compared to annual United States rates of 4.0-4.6 per 100,000. Risk factors for higher mortality rates included age over 65 years, self-employment, non-US citizenship, being African-American or Hispanic and working in rural areas. The top industry for fatality rate was mining, followed by transportation, public utilities, agriculture, and construction. (108034)
CIS 08-544 2007 National Safety Survey: Small steps for a people business. Minter S.G., Occupational Hazards, Oct. 2007, p.30-38. Illus. (In English) Internet: This article comments the responses to an occupational safety and health survey carried out in 2007 among the readers of the journal, with reference to data from the occupational accident and disease data from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics for the years 2005 and 2006. (108026)
CIS 08-545 Spanish occupational safety and health strategy (2007-2012). (Spanish: Estrategia española de seguridad y salud en el trabajo (2007-2012)) Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo, July 2007, No.43, p.38-55 (In Spanish) Internet: This article presents the occupational safety and health action plan for Spain for the years 2007 to 2012. It explains why this plan is needed, comments the positive and negative aspects of the current situation and describes de general objectives of the plan as well as the eight objectives of prevention of occupational hazards. The main objectives are to improve compliance with standards, with an emphasis on SME's, to improve the efficiency and quality of the OSH system and of the occupational safety and health services, to develop a safety and health culture in Spain, to improve information and investigation systems as well as training in prevention of occupational hazards, to reinforce the institutions responsible for the prevention of occupational hazards, to improve institutional participation and coordination of the relevant public administrations. (108081)
CIS 08-546 International OHS: Through the looking glass of the global economy. Brown G., Occupational Hazards, Jan. 2008, p.58-61. Illus. (In English) Internet: In late 2007, a multinational group of occupational safety and health professionals travelled to Mexico to observe working conditions at a giant open-pit copper mine at the request of a trade union. The conditions were found to be poor. Levels of silica dust were particularly high. Dust collectors had been dismantled. The mine was also visited by Mexican labour inspectors who ordered the employer to implement a series of measures. The next step of this international occupational safety and health project will likely include filing a complaint by trade unions in Mexico and the United States. Efforts also are being made to raise funds for a more comprehensive health study of active and retired miners to determine the prevalence of respiratory diseases such as silicosis. (108147)
CIS 08-547 Occupational health and safety support systems for small and medium sized enterprises - A literature review. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. iv, 87p. Illus. 67 ref. (In English) Internet: An international review of the occupational safety and health support systems for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) was undertaken with the aim to identify and review support models and programmes similar in scope to the proposed HSE's model for occupational health, safety and return to work support (OHSR). A total of 40 projects and programmes from various countries were included in the study. This review has highlighted the issues relating to each component of the OHSR model. However, none of the systems reviewed has taken a holistic approach similar to that proposed by HSE. (108025)
CIS 08-548 Perceptions of the cost implications of health and safety failures. Haefeli K., Haslam C., Haslam R., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. x, 193p. Illus. 21 ref. (In English) Internet: This report presents findings of research undertaken within organizations of varying size and in various sectors to explore perceptions of costs incurred due to health and safety failures. Focus groups and preliminary interviews were conducted to gain insight into the issues of interest, followed by 283 interviews conducted with managers, health and safety personnel and workers' representatives within 129 organizations. The third phase of the study involved the collecting of real time records of occupational accident and illness cost data by participating organizations. Forty case studies illustrating the costs incurred by the organizations are presented. The findings are discussed in light of the implications for health and safety information provision and related research. (108019)
CIS 08-549 National occupational health plan 2003-2007. (Spanish: Plan nacional de salud ocupacional 2003-2007) Ministerio de la Protección social, Cra 13 No 32-76 p. 15, Bogotá, Colombia, 2004. 79p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This document presents the Colombian national occupational safety and health plan for 2003-2007. It was designed for use as a management tool for coordinating actions of all parties of the general system for the prevention of occupational hazards. Four occupational safety and health objectives were identified: strengthen the promotion of occupational safety and health and promote the prevention of hazards; consolidate and reinforce the various agencies of the general hazard prevention system; encourage the technical and scientific development and the recognition of economic benefits and other forms of assistance aimed at workers; encourage the broadening of the coverage, establish policies, define occupational safety and health promotion actions and prevent hazards among vulnerable worker populations. (108046)
CIS 08-550 6th national survey on working conditions. (Spanish: VI encuesta nacional de condiciones de trabajo) Almodóvar Molina A., Pinilla García F.J., eds., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2007. 165p. Illus., ISBN 978-84-7425-737-3 (In Spanish) Internet: This report presents the results of a national survey on working conditions and occupational hazards in Spain, based on information given by workers interviewed at their home. Its objectives were to determine the frequency of exposures to various occupational hazards, identify the most frequent exposures; identify occupational factors which have an incidence on workers' health and evaluate preventive measures implemented in enterprises Contents: analytical model; objectives; methodology; sample characteristics; safety and health organization and prevention activities; safety conditions; working environments; workplace design; physical workload; mental workload; psychosocial factors; health status of the labour population; perception of differences and similarities in working conditions; general conclusions. Appendices include questionnaires used for the survey. Because the sampling conditions were changed in this 6th edition of the survey (information collected from workers at their home and no data collected from enterprises), it is not possible to directly compare the results with those of the previous surveys. (108054)
CIS 08-551 Spanish occupational safety and health strategy 2007-2012 - Action plan for the initiation and implementation of the Spanish occupational safety and health strategy (period ranging from July 2007 to April 2012). (Spanish: Estrategia española de seguridad y salud en el trabajo 2007-2012 - Plan de acción para el impuso y ejecución de la estrategia española de seguridad y salud en el trabajo 2007-2008 (Período julio 2007 - abril 2008)) Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2007. 61p. (In Spanish) Internet: This booklet presents the Spanish national occupational safety and health strategy for 2007-2012, in which eight main objectives were defined. The purposes of these objectives are to improve the prevention of occupational hazards within the enterprise, to reinforce occupational safety and health institutions and to improve occupational safety and health policies. A ten-month action plan (from June 2007 to April 2008) was also defined as a first step towards the implementation of the strategy. (108055)
CIS 08-552 Analysis of the effectiveness and design of participatory and integrated models of occupational safety and health management: Study focussing on Spanish SMEs. (Spanish: Análisis de eficiencia y diseño de modelos participativos e integrados de gestión de la prevención de riesgos laborales: una focalización para la PYME española) Portillo García-Pintos J., Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2007. 252p. Illus. 117 ref. Price: EUR 22.43., ISBN 978-84-7425-736-6 (In Spanish) Internet: This report describes a study on the effectiveness of occupational safety and health programmes carried out in 36 SMEs within seven industrial sectors in the Galicia region of Spain. The sociological profile and the level of training of managers and supervisors served as a basis for designing an integrated occupational safety and health management system entitled GESPREVEN for Spanish SMEs, presented in this report. (108056)
CIS 08-553 Compensated fatalities following a work injury: Comparison of Québec, Ontario and British Columbia, 1997-2003. (French: Décès indemnisés à la suite d'une lésion professionnelle - Comparaison entre le Québec, l'Ontario et la Colombie Britannique, 1997-2003) Duguay P., Massicotte P., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. viii, 46p. Illus. 25 ref. Price: CAD 8.40. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-134-7 (fr), ISBN 978-2-89631-193-4 (En) (In English, French) Internet: The objective of this study was to develop fatal occupational accident indicators for Quebec as comparable as possible to those for British Columbia and Ontario, including characteristics of the deceased workers and the injuries compensated. It involved eight sectors of activity (mining and oil extraction, smelting, logging, sawmills, machinery manufacturing, road transport, construction, communications and other utility industries). Findings are discussed. (108066)
CIS 08-554 Occupational disease compensation fund - 2006 Annual Report. (Dutch: Fonds voor de beroepsziekten - Jaarverslag 2006; French: Fonds des maladies professionnelles - Rapport annuel 2006) Fonds des maladies professionnelles, Avenue de l'Astronomie 1, 1210 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2006. 207p. Illus. + CD-ROM. (In Dutch, French) Internet: Contents of this annual report: administrative structure of the Belgian occupational disease insurance fund; occupational disease compensation claims (by diagnosis, disease code, nationality, area of residence, gender, age, industrial sector and occupation); compensation of occupational diseases (in private and public sectors); prevention of occupational diseases; legal claims; compensation for permanent invalidity; financial data. In appendices: schedule of occupational diseases and occupation disease codes. (108068)
CIS 08-555 Functions covered by labour inspectors and controllers in the labour administration system of French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa. (French: Les fonctions assurées par des inspecteurs et contrôleurs du travail dans le système d'administration du travail en Afrique francophone subsaharienne) Auvergnon P., Laviolette S., Oumarou M., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. 82p. Illus. 48 ref., ISBN 978-92-2-220564-6 (In French) Internet: This report covers the topic of labour inspection and more specifically the role and function of labour inspectors in nine French-speaking countries of sub-Saharan Africa. Data were collected by means of questionnaires addressed to the labour administrations of the countries included in the study. Contents: labour administration system and its agents; functions within the labour administration system; extending the functions of the labour administration system to non-salaried workers; means of coordinating the functions; conclusions. Appendices include various demographic and economic data on the countries concerned. (108080)
CIS 08-556 Complex and contentious risk based decision-making in the field of health, safety and the environment: Comparative analysis of two UK examples. Brownless G., Paterson J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. xii, 55p. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: HSE's Risk Policy Unit assisted by the Health and Safety Laboratory and several other partners submitted a proposal to the European Commission to study innovative processes in the governance of hazardous activities in the chemical and nuclear industries. Nine cases were studied and used as the basis for identifying the key features of innovative governance systems. This report aims presents the two United Kingdom case studies in detail. (108167)
CIS 08-557 Case studies that identify and exemplify boards of directors who provide leadership and direction on occupational health and safety. Shaw J., Cudmore S., Antonelli A., McMahon A., Wright M., Cash B., Bending M., McGurry B., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. xiv, 435p. Illus. (In English) Internet: HSE has identified a need to produce case study material which business leaders can identify themselves with and which can persuade them of the benefits that effective leadership in occupational safety and health can bring the business overall. This research described in this report produced 34 case studies that highlight boards of directors who provide leadership and direction in occupational safety and health, showing what they do and what the benefits are to their organisations. These case studies add to the growing number of initiatives from the HSE aimed at promoting greater board level responsibility and accountability for safety and health. (108169)
CIS 08-558 Directors' responsibilities for health and safety: The findings of two peer reviews of published research. James P., Wright F.B., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. v, 58p. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: This report presents the findings of literature surveys on directors' responsibilities for safety and health undertaken by two university professors in the United Kingdom. (108170)
CIS 08-559 World occupational safety and health day in Madagascar - Summary report. (French: Journée mondiale sur la sécurité et la santé au travail à Madagascar - Rapport de synthèse) Raharijaona V., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. 35p. (In French) Summary report on the celebration of the world occupational safety and health day in Madagascar, on the 28 April 2005. During the day which was celebrated under the patronage of the Ministry for public services, labour and social legislation, as well as of the ILO representation, a conference and discussion was organized on the prevention of accidents and risks to health in the construction industry among young and older workers. Work by commissions also allowed evaluating the degree of implementation of the recommendations adopted in 2003 and 2004. (108200)
CIS 08-560 WHO Collaborating Centres in Occupational Health - Compendium of final products. World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service,1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2007. 118p. Illus., ISBN 978-92-4-159520-9 (In English) Internet: The primary focus of the Network of WHO Collaborating Centres in Occupational Health is the transfer of knowledge to countries in economic transition and to developing countries. This catalogue lists the information resources made available by the Collaborating Centres in the following areas: technical guidance in occupational health; intensive partnership in Africa; child labour and adolescent workers; elimination of silicosis; health care workers; health promotion activities; psychosocial factors at work; promotion of OSH in small enterprises and the informal sector; prevention of musculoskeletal disorders; preventive technology; training of occupational safety and health personnel; Internet resources and networks; national and local profiles and indicators; economic evaluation of interventions; global burden of disease. (108246)
CIS 08-561 Safety footwear - Selection and use. (French: Les articles chaussants de protection - Choix et utilisation) Mayer A., Cannot J.C., Migard A., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Apr. 2007. 31p. Illus. 28 ref. Price: EUR 6.50. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1496-5 (In French) Internet: This guide is aimed at all persons involved in selecting safety footwear and boots and making them available in occupational settings. It applies to all work situations where it is necessary to have recourse to personal protective equipment, namely whenever collective protection measures are not possible or are insufficient. It provides information on the characteristics and scope of use of safety footwear, and proposes an approach for their selection, purchase, use and care. (108072)
CIS 08-562 Occupational accidents: Legal aspects in France. (French: Accidents du travail: aspects législatifs et réglementaires en France) Zakia T., Choudat D., Goulfier C., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 3rd Quarter 2007, No.156, 7p. Illus. 6 ref. (In French) Internet: The management of occupational accidents closely depends on legislative and legal obligations. This article describes the conditions of compensation in France and analyzes the various stages of recognition, from the materiality and the occupational character of the accident. Problems related to recovery and accident relapses are discussed with an attempt to describe in detail the conditions of compensation at work cessation in compliance with industrial accident legislation, including when permanent disability is established or when the accident is fatal. (108228)
CIS 08-563 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, 38th ed., 2007. CD-ROM., ISBN 978-3-452-23845-8 (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. (108101)
CIS 08-564 Occupational heat illness in Washington State, 1995-2005. Bonauto D., Anderson R., Rauser E., Burke B., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007, Vol.50, p.940-950. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: This study reviewed medical records to identify accepted workers' compensation claims for heat-related illness in Washington State over the 11-year period from 1995-2005. A total of 480 such claims were identified. Industries with the highest average annual incidence rate for the compensation of heat-related illness claims were fire protection (80.8/100,000 full-time equivalent workers (FTE)), roofing (59.0/100,000 FTE) and highway, bridge and street construction (44.8/100,000 FTE). Heat-related illness claims were associated with high outdoor temperatures. Medical risk factors for heat-related illness were present in some cases. (108035)
CIS 08-565 Trends and characteristics of compensated occupational cancer in Ontario, Canada, 1937-2003. Pichora E.C., Payne J.I., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007, Vol.50, p.980-991. Illus. 26 ref. (In English) Internet: In the Canadian province of Ontario, approximately 75% of the labour force is covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) whose data includes claims from 1937. The purpose of this study was to describe WSIB compensated cancer claims by worker demographics, claim characteristics, year of filing, cancer type and work exposure measures including the workplace carcinogenic agent, worker occupation and industry sector. A total of 3126 claims for one or more malignant neoplasms were compensated between 1937 and 2003. Results show trends in cancer compensation reflecting changes in the characteristics and prevalence of workers exposed to workplace carcinogens, as well as changes to WSIB compensation policies over time. (108038)
CIS 08-566 Total and permanent work incapacity, outcomes for workers. A five-year socio-medical survey. (French: Inaptitude totale permanente au poste de travail, devenir des salariés. Enquête médico-sociale sur 5 ans) Alcouffe J., Bruno F., Cazali N., Gal A., Kesselring C., Lam L., Montéléon P.Y., Munier A., Özkan-Rabret E., Sauvagère J., Vilaine C., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2007, Vol.47, No.3, p.237-250.10 ref. (In French) Internet: The aim of this survey was to record the number of cases of total work incapacitation having occurred between 2000 and 2004 in the region of Bagneux, France, to describe the procedures adopted and to evaluate the employment status and experience of incapacitated workers at least one year after the second work aptitude evaluation. It involved 269 cases of permanent work incapacitation followed-up within a workforce averaging 17,012 workers. For each case, a questionnaire was completed in two steps: a first part was filled in by an occupational physician at the onset of incapacitation, while a second part was filled in at least one year later by a social worker. Findings show that incapacitated workers consisted more frequently of men than women, that their average age was 46 years and that the main pathologies were rheumatic diseases and psychic disorders. Among the 176 cases reconctated two years after the permanent incapacity diagnosis, 44 had a new occupation, 74 were receiving unemployment benefits, 24 were invalid and 19 had retired. (108085)
CIS 08-567 Shared occupational risks for transitional cell cancer of the bladder and renal pelvis among men and women in Sweden. Wilson R.T., Donahue M., Gridley G., Adami J., El ghormli L., Dosemeci M., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2008, Vol.51, No.2, p.83-99. Approx 130 ref. (In English) Internet: Using the Swedish national census and cancer registry data for 1971-1989, transitional cell cancers of the renal pelvis (N=1374) and bladder (N=21,591) were identified. Both cancer sites were significantly elevated among women and men employed in the machinery and electronics industries, sedentary work and indoor work; the highest proportion of the bladder (12%) and renal pelvis (14%) cancers occurred among men in the metal industry. Cancers of the renal pelvis were elevated in several occupational and industry groups for which there was no elevated bladder cancer risk. Other findings are discussed. (108131)
CIS 08-568 Occupation and breast cancer risk among Shanghai women in a population-based cohort study. Ji B.T., Blair A., Shu X.O., Chow W.H., Hauptmann M., Dosemeci M., Yang G., Lubin J., Gao Y.T., Rothman N., Zheng W., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2008, Vol.51, No.2, p.100-110. 56 ref. (In English) Internet: A total of 74,942 women were recruited in a population-based cohort study in Shanghai, China, between 1997 and 2000. This case-control study nested within the cohort study examined the relationship between occupation and breast cancer risk. Cases were 586 women previously diagnosed with breast cancer at baseline and 438 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer during follow-up through December 2004. Eight controls were randomly selected for each case from cancer-free cohort members, matched to the cases by year of birth and age at diagnosis. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios of breast cancer risk associated with occupations, adjusting for established breast cancer risk factors. Findings suggest that white-collar professionals and several production occupations may be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. (108132)
CIS 08-569 Effects of occupational exposure on the reproductive system: Core evidence and practical implications. Burdorf A., Figà-Talamanca I., Kold Jensen T., Thulstrup A.M., Occupational Medicine, 2006, Vol.56, p.516-520. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey concludes that evidence concerning occupational risk factors for adverse effects on the reproductive system is consistent for a limited number of risk factors, most notably exposure to lead, glycol ethers, organic solvents, pesticides and ionizing radiation. It remains difficult to arrive at sound conclusions on the level of exposure and the specific chemicals within the groups of glycol ethers, organic solvents and pesticides that are associated with an increased risk. Precautions to be taken for the protection of the reproductive health have so far focused on pregnant women in the workplace, although available evidence strongly suggests that exposure in the few months before conception may also be of importance, both among women and men. (108150)
CIS 08-570 Occupational respiratory diseases. (French: Maladies respiratoires professionnelles) Matrat M., Andujar P., Pairon J.C., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.112, p.519-529. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In French) Internet: Main conclusions of this literature survey on occupational respiratory diseases: bronchial reactivity to bakery allergens is closely related to the severity of skin allergy; close to 7% of health care employees suffer from asthma linked to their occupation (use of latex gloves, administering aerosols and drugs, cleaning of instruments and surfaces); for all asthma patients of working age, obtaining a detailed occupational history is of key importance for improving the diagnosis of the cause of asthma; among populations previously exposed to asbestos, the earlier smoking was given up, the lower the risk of bronchopulmonary cancer; there is a link between exposure to crystalline silica and the risk of lung cancer; some genetic polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of lung cancer among workers exposed to chromium. (108182)
CIS 08-571 Let's be done with bladder cancer in occupational settings. (French: Pour en finir avec le cancer de la vessie en milieu professionnel) Delépine A., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.112, p.531-542. Illus. (In French) Internet: Review of a symposium on the medical and technical aspects of occupational bladder cancer, held in Paris, France, on 15-16 March 2007. Main topics covered: epidemiology of bladder cancer; risk factors; exposure and genetic susceptibility factors; trends in industrial exposure to bladder carcinogens; screening; hazard management. (108183)
CIS 08-572 Occupational diseases of the sensory organs. (French: Affections d'origine professionnelles des organes des sens) Michiels F., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.112, p.543-552. Illus. (In French) Internet: Review of a conference on occupational diseases in the armed forces and in the ordinance industries held in Marseille, France, on 31 May and 1 June 2007. The conference included three sessions on occupational diseases of the sensory organs: hearing disorders; vision disorders; olfactory disorders. Each session included the findings of both research and field studies. (108184)
CIS 08-573 Occupational asthma due to enzymes. (French: Asthme professionnel aux enzymes) Rosenberg N., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.112, p.553-564. 64 ref. (In French) Internet: Enzymes are used in many industries and activities. Whenever they are handled as powders or aerosols, there is a risk of respiratory sensitization. Sensitization is due to their protein structure and not to their enzymatic activity. The sectors of activity most frequently involved are the detergents industry, enzyme production, biotech research, the pharmaceutical industry and the food industry, particularly the bakery products industry. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, exposure to enzymes in powered or aerosol form and positive skin or blood tests. Atopy constitutes a risk factor but enzyme asthma is always the result of deficient working conditions; its prevention requires strict workplace hygiene. Rhinitis and asthma caused by enzymes are recognized as occupational diseases in France. (108185)
CIS 08-574 New regulatory framework of occupational diseases in light of abrogated elements and the European recommendation in this area. (Spanish: El nuevo tratamiento legal de las enfermedades profesionales en comparación con lo derogado y con la recomendación europea sobre el tema) Gambí Pisonero N., Ruiz Contreras M.L., Maqueda Blasco J., Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Dec. 2007, Vol.LIII, No.209, p.43-55. 11 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: An analysis was undertaken of the new schedule of occupational diseases in Spain following the coming into force of the new Royal Decree 1299/2006, highlighting the changes from the earlier schedule (Royal Decree 1995/1972) as well as possible differences with Commission Recommendation of 19 September 2003 on the European schedule of occupational diseases (2003/670/EC). The findings of this analysis are discussed, together with the structure and content of the new Spanish schedule. In particular, the new schedule does not include diseases caused by psychosocial risk factors. (108204)
CIS 08-575 Semicircular lipoathrophy. (Spanish: Lipoatrofia semicircular) Apellániz González A., Pascual Izaola A., Prevención, Oct.-Dec. 2007, No.182, p.28-36. Illus. 16 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Semicircular lipoathrophy consists of an injury to the subcutaneous adipose tissue that forms semicircular bands two to three centimetres wide on the inner face of muscles. The condition generally appears symmetrically. This article describes the disease (aetiology, clinical aspects, diagnosis) together with the measures to be taken in the event where a case of semi-circular lipoathrophy would be observed to occur within the enterprise. A flowchart summarizing the action protocol as well as examples of questionnaires for collecting data on working conditions and the work environment of patients are also included. (108207)
CIS 08-576 Occupational risk factors and reproductive health of women. Figà-Talamanca I., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 2006, Vol.56, No.8, p.521-531. Illus. 100 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature review summarizes recent epidemiologic evidence on the relationship between occupational exposures and negative reproductive outcome among women workers. The studies examined include those published in the international scientific literature since 1990 identified through the search of relevant data banks using selected keywords. There is sufficient evidence is sufficient to warrant the maximum protection of pregnant women from exposure to several occupational risk factors, including anaesthetic gases, antineoplastic drugs, heavy metals, solvents, heavy physical work and irregular work schedules. For other work risks, such as exposure to non-ionizing radiation and psychosocial work stress, the evidence is often suggestive but not conclusive. (108211)
CIS 08-577 The influence of occupational exposure on male reproductive function. Bonde J.P., Joffe M., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 2006, Vol.56, No.8, p.544-553. 128 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey reviews recent epidemiological studies exploring the effect of occupational exposures on semen quality, fecundity and the ability to conceive. The evidence for an adverse effect on male reproduction of several occupational and environmental exposures and toxicants, such as heat, ionizing radiation, inorganic lead, dibromochloropropane, ethylene dibromide, some ethylene glycol ethers, carbon disulfide and welding operations, is strongly supported in well-designed epidemiological studies. For other agents, the association is only suspected or suggested and needs further evaluation before conclusions can be drawn. Many workers in the developing countries are still exposed to substances that are banned in developed countries, sometimes in high concentrations. (108212)
CIS 08-578 Low back pain among Iranian industrial workers. Ghaffari M., Alipour A., Jensen I., Farshad A.A., Vingard E., Occupational Medicine, Oct. 2006, Vol.56, No.7, p.455-460. 32 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence of low back pain (LBP) among Iranian industrial workers. The sample consisted of workers at the largest car-manufacturing group in the country. The prevalence of LBP, work exposures, personal and lifestyle factors were recorded using the standardized Nordic questionnaire. Of the 18,031 employees, 78% participated. The majority of subjects were young men, with a small proportion of women (4%). The one-year prevalence of self-reported LBP was 21% (20% for males and 27% for females). The rate of absenteeism due to LBP was 5% per annum. Multiple logistic regression models indicated the following risk factors for LBP in the previous 12 months: age; lack of regular exercise; heavy lifting; repetitive work; monotonous work. (108217)
CIS 08-579 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, Sep. 2006, Vol.56, n°6, p.398-405. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to summarize incidence rates of work-related skin diseases reported between 1996 and 2001 to the EPIDERM and OPRA national surveillance databases by consultant dermatologists and occupational physicians in the United Kingdom, with an emphasis on allergic contact dermatitis by occupation and industry. Findings are discussed. Contact dermatitis was most frequently attributed to rubber chemicals, soaps and cleaners, wet work, nickel and acrylics; most cases of contact urticaria were attributed to rubber chemicals, foods and flour. Rates of contact dermatitis were highest among skilled workers in the petrochemical, rubber and plastic manufacturing, with machine operators and technical workers in metal and automotive industries also at increased risk. High proportions of cases attributed to rubber chemicals were in nurses and technicians in the health and social services. (108218)
CIS 08-580 Emerging opportunities to prevent occupational lung disease. Kreiss K., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2007, Vol.64, No.8, p.499-500. 12 ref. (In English) Internet: Although 80% of cases of chronic obstructive respiratory disease are attributable to smoking, the remaining 20% are believed to be mostly due to occupational causes, particularly among persons below the age of 45. This editorial argues that population-based multidisciplinary follow-up of sentinel cases of emerging lung diseases suspected to be due to occupational factors can enable occupational physicians to recommend risk-based preventive measures. (108251)
CIS 08-581 Investigating cancer risks related to asbestos and other occupational carcinogens. Siemiatycki J., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2007, Vol.64, No.8, p.500-501. 14 ref. (In English) Internet: While it is estimated that 90% of lung cancers among men and 70% among women are attributable to smoking, the rest are believed to be due to occupational factors. Occupational cancer remains a critically-important area of research, both for lung cancer and other cancers. This editorial argues that it is important to have in place the resources needed for such research. It is likely that population-based case-control studies will be the primary design used. This will require creating and maintaining a cadre of experts who can carry out the exposure assessment needed for such research. (108252)
CIS 08-582 Pesticide use and chronic bronchitis among farmers in the agricultural health survey. Hoppin J.A., Valcin M., Henneberger P.K., Kullman G.J., Umbach D.M., London S.J., Alavanja M.C.R., Sandler D.P., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007, Vol.50, p.969-979. 44 ref. (In English) Internet: This study evaluated the role played by pesticides as risk factors of chronic bronchitis, using data from the Agricultural Health Study on lifetime pesticide use among doctor-diagnosed cases of chronic bronchitis from 20,908 pesticide applicators. Chronic bronchitis was diagnosed after age of 19 in 654 farmers (3%). Eleven pesticides were significantly associated with chronic bronchitis, the highest odds ratio being found for heptachlor (OR 1.50). Increased prevalence for chronic bronchitis was also seen for individuals who had a history of a high pesticide exposure event (OR 1.85) and for those who also applied pesticides in off farm jobs (OR 1.40). (108037)
CIS 08-583 High prevalence of accelerated silicosis among gold miners in Jiangxi, China. Tse L.A., Li Z.M., Wong T.W., Fu Z.M., Yu I.T.S., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007, Vol.50, p.876-880. Illus. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was carried out to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of accelerated silicosis among Chinese gold mine workers. A medical cross-sectional examination was conducted among 574 miners; all participants were male rock-drillers. The concentrations of total dust and quartz content were obtained from government documentation. Descriptive data analyses were performed. The prevalence of accelerated silicosis was 29.1% after an average of 5.6 years of dust exposure. A history of tuberculosis seemed to increase the risk. The concentration of respirable silica dust was estimated to be 89.5 mg/m3 (range 70.2-108.8) in the underground goldmine, far exceeding the permissible exposure limits. This study illustrates a serious health threat in small-scale goldmines in China and indicates an urgent need for environmental control and disease prevention. (108032)
CIS 08-584 Persistence of respiratory symptoms in ex-underground iron ore miners. Hedlund U., Järvholm B., Lundbäck B., Occupational Medicine, Sep. 2006, Vol.56, No.6, p.380-385. 34 ref. (In English) Internet: To assess the persistence of respiratory symptoms in ex-miners after cessation of mining exposure, this population-based cross-sectional study used a postal questionnaire comparing prevalence of symptoms between 206 ex-miners who had stopped mining at least one year before the study and 4560 referents not occupationally exposed to irritants or dust. Age, smoking and a family history of asthma were considered as possible confounders in the analysis. 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 of other respiratory symptoms being more common in ex-miners. (108219)
CIS 08-585 Cancer incidence and mortality in aircraft maintenance workers. D'Este C., Attia J.R., Brown A.M., Gibson R., Gibberd R., Tavener M., Guest M., Horsley K., Harrex W., Ross J., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2008, Vol.51, No.2, p.16-23. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: A cancer incidence and mortality study was conducted in response to health concerns raised by workers from fuel tank seal maintenance programmes of a type of fighter aircraft used by the Australian air force. The number of deaths and cancers for individuals involved in seal maintenance activities were matched against two Air Force comparison groups. Analyses were weighted to adjust for differences in age, exposure period and rank. Subjects included 873 exposed, 7,577 comparison group one, and 9,408 comparison group two individuals. Cancer incidence was higher in the exposed group (cancer incidence rate ratio range 1.45-1.62). Other findings are discussed. (108135)
CIS 08-586 Smoking, no exercise, overweight and low back disorder in welders and nurses. Vieira E.R., Kumar S., Narayan Y., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Feb. 2008, Vol.38, No.2, p.143-149. Illus. 31 ref. (In English) Internet: This study assessed the association between smoking, lack of exercise, being overweight and low back disorder among welders and nurses. A total of 111 workers (64 welders and 47 nurses working in a steel company and a hospital respectively) completed a questionnaire on their personal and occupational factors. The annual and lifetime rates of work-related low back disorder were respectively 3.4% and 58%. Forty percent of the workers smoked and 49% did not exercise regularly. The lifetime rate of low back disorder was 86% for the workers that smoked and did not exercise, and 66% for the overweight workers. This study shows that low back disorder is common among welders and nurses. Low back disorder preventive programs in industry should include smoking cessation, regular physical activity campaigns and the promotion of healthy eating habits. (108138)
CIS 08-587 An outbreak of extrinsic alveolitis in a car engine plant. Dawkins P., Robertson A., Robertson W., Moore V., Reynolds J., Langman G., Robinson E., Harris-Roberts J., Crook B., Burge S., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 2006, Vol.56, No.8, p.559-565. Illus. 23 ref. (In English) Internet: Twelve workers from a car engine-manufacturing plant in the United Kingdom presented with extrinsic allergic alveolitis (EAA) diagnosed on the basis of clinical, radiological and pathological findings. They were exposed to metalworking fluids (MWF) that cooled, lubricated and cleaned the machine tools. Data were collected on their occupational history, and they were subjected to medical examinations, spirometry, radiology, bronchoscopic lavage, lung biopsy and serology. Sera were tested for precipitins to used MWF and to reference cultures of bacteria suspected to be implicated. All were males and none were current smokers. All had dyspnoea, many had weight loss and cough, but only half had influenza-like symptoms and auscultator crackles. There was an overall loss of lung function and lung volumes. Other findings are discussed. (108213)
CIS 08-588 Work tasks, chemical exposure and respiratory health in construction painting. Kaukainen A., Martikainen R., Riala R., Reijula K., Tammilehto L., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2008, Vol.51, no.2, p.1-8. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: This case-control study on chemical exposure and respiratory health was carried out by means of a questionnaire addressed to 1000 construction painters and 1000 carpenters in Finland, all males (response rates 60.6% and 60.4%, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression models were adjusted for age, smoking and atopy. Compared to carpentry work, outdoor painting, more than indoor painting, was associated with asthma-like symptoms (odds ratios (OR) 2.7-6.5), rhinitis (OR 2.4), asthma (OR 4.7) and chronic bronchitis (OR 2.9). Risk factors for respiratory symptoms and chronic bronchitis were the use of epoxy and urethane paints, putties and plasters, as well as the use of glues or traditional paints. Water-based paints were not a common cause of symptoms, and their use should be further encouraged. (108134)
CIS 08-589 Cancer incidence and mortality in a Swedish rubber tire manufacturing plant. Wingren G., Axelson O., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007, Vol.50, p.901-909. 39 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this cohort study was to evaluate the cancer incidence and mortality among Swedish tyre workers. Cancer incidence and mortality in the cohort was compared with expected values from national rates. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and mortality ratios (SMR) were calculated. Among men, increased incidence and mortality risks were found for laryngeal cancer (SIR 2.10, SMR 2.08) and cancer of the trachea, bronchi and lung (SIR 1.62, SMR 1.54). The incidence risk was highest among those with the longest exposure duration and among workers in compounding, milling, and maintenance. Decreased incidence risks were seen for cancer of the prostate (SIR 0.74) and skin (SIR 0.57). Other findings are discussed. (108033)
CIS 08-590 Silicosis in Turkish denim sandblasters. Akgun M., Mirici A., Ucar E.Y., Kantarci M., Araz O., Gorguner M., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 2006, Vol.56, No.8, p.554-558. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: Between August 2004 and March 2006, 16 young men with a history of working in small workplaces producing sandblasted denim were admitted to the respiratory diseases department of a Turkish hospital. Of these, 14 presented with respiratory symptoms. In the first two cases, open-lung biopsy was required to confirm the diagnosis of silicosis. Later cases were diagnosed through a combination of their work history and the clinical and radiological findings. The mean age at presentation was 23 years with mean duration of employment as a sandblaster being three years. The first two cases died and the remainder, except two, are still receiving treatment. The production of sandblasted denim fabric in small uncontrolled workplaces may entail significant exposure to silica dust and the development of rapidly fatal silicosis. Urgent action is required to prevent further cases. (108214)
CIS 08-591 Skin protection in dental laboratories - Suddenly an allergy appeared. (German: Hautschutz im Dentallabor - Und plötzlich war die Allergie da) Arbeit und Gesundheit, 2007, No.12, p.14-15. Illus. (In German) Internet: This article describes the case of a female dental assistant working without gloves or skin protection. After about 30 years of practicing this occupation, she developed eczema on the hands for the first time, followed by clacks on the fingertips and on the palms. Her fingers then swelled to such an extent that she was no longer able to work. Skin examinations revealed allergies to various allergens typically found in the plastics used in dentistry. Recommended measures included wearing two superposed protective gloves, namely a plastic film glove under a nitrile rubber glove, together with the use of a skin protective cream and skin care. After an adaptation period of a few weeks for getting used to working with the gloves, she was able to work again. This case clearly shows that allergies can declare themselves after many years of daily contact with a substance, and highlights the need to adopt protective measures right from the first day of work. (108109)
CIS 08-592 Work-related asthma in the educational services industry: California, Massachusetts, Michigan, and New Jersey, 1993-2000. Mazurek J.M., Filios M., Willis R., Rosenman K.D., Reilly M.J., McGreevy K., Schill D.P., Valiante D., Pechter E., Davis L., Flattery J., Harrison R., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2008, Vol.51, No.2, p.47-59. 52 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this study was to characterize work-related asthma (WRA) among persons working in educational services, identified by state-based occupational disease surveillance systems. A total of 2,995 WRA cases reported from 1993 to 2000 to four states, California, Massachusetts, Michigan and New Jersey, were examined. Nine percent of the WRA cases were employed in educational services, among which 69% were classified as new-onset asthma and 31% as work-aggravated asthma. New-onset asthma cases were further classified as occupational asthma (61%) or as reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (8%). The most frequently reported occupation was teachers and teachers' aides (54%). The most frequently reported agents were indoor air pollutants (28%), moulds (16%), dusts (14%) and cleaning products (7%). (108137)
CIS 08-593 Prevalence and host determinants of occupational bronchial asthma in animal shelter workers. Krakowiak A., Krawczyk P., Szulc B., Wiszniewska M., Kowalczyk M., Walusiak J., Pałczyński C., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2007, Vol.80, No.5, p.423-432. Illus. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the risk factors of airway allergy in 88 animal shelter workers in Poland, occupationally exposed to cats and dogs, who responded to a questionnaire concerning the history of exposure to animal allergens and job characteristics. They were subjected to skin prick tests for cat, dog, rat and mouse allergens, and determinations of total serum IgE and specific IgE levels. Bronchial hyperreactivity and peak expiratory flow rate were measured at work and off work only in workers with symptoms suggestive of occupational asthma (OA). The prevalence of OA was 9.1%. Sensitization to dog allergens was higher than to cats. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significant role of a family history of atopy, having a dog as pet in the past and growing up in the country (odds ratios of 5.9, 6.47 and 7.59 respectively). (108258)
CIS 08-594 Asbestos, asbestosis and cancer. Lehtinen S., ed., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 1997. iii, 98p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 951-802-198-8 (In English) Internet: Proceedings of a conference on asbestos, asbestosis and cancer held in Helsinki, Finland, 20-22 January 1997. Topics addressed: exposure criteria for clinical diagnosis; use of chest imaging techniques; radiological and histological criteria for clinical diagnosis; asbestosis as a precursor of lung cancer; mesothelioma; adenocarcinoma; screening programmes and early diagnosis; guidelines for attributing lung cancer to asbestos. (108243)
CIS 08-595 Ten year follow-up study of MR imaging of the lumbar spine. Roberts N., Whitehouse G.H., Macfarlane G.J., Redmond N.M., Papageorgiou A.C., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. viii, 48p. Illus. 49 ref. (In English) Internet: This 10-year follow-up study of 104 subjects was carried out to establish whether a relationship existed between occupational factors, lifestyle factors, MRI-diagnosed pathology and low back pain (LBP). Epidemiological risk factors for the presence, onset and worsening of LBP over the follow-up period and risk factors for the onset of pathology in the spine were also investigated. LBP history, and occupational and lifestyle characteristics were obtained by means of questionnaires and 70 subjects underwent MRI scans of the lumbar spine. At follow-up, nearly half of the subjects reported having LBP at least once per month, and MRI-diagnosed pathological features were extensive across the spine particularly at the lower lumbar spinal levels. No statistically-significant occupational or lifestyle risk factors of low back pain or MRI-diagnosed pathology were found. Other findings are discussed. (108011)
CIS 08-596 Improved early pain management for musculoskeletal disorders. Breen A., Langworthy J., Bagust J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. xii, 77p. Illus. 229 ref. (In English) Internet: This report examines the usefulness of pain management techniques in helping people with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) to stay at work or return to work during the early stages of an episode. It presents the latest evidence-based guidance, including barriers to their implementation. Care pathways consistent with the report findings are proposed. The pathways are for use during the first few weeks of an episode that threatens, or causes, work loss. They are aimed at employees, employers and health care professionals. It was found that the evidence was variable in quality across the spectrum of MSDs, with upper limb disorders in need of the greatest development. (108015)
CIS 08-597 Routes of referral for occupational asthma - A national study. Fishwick D., Bradshaw L., Curran A., Davies J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. x, 53p. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to document the routes of referral for cases of occupational asthma recruited from six hospitals in the United Kingdom. The study comprised both a retrospective and prospective element. The retrospective study involved collating information regarding cases of occupational asthma reported previously to Surveillance of Work Related and Occupational Respiratory Disease scheme (SWORD). In the prospective study, individuals presenting as new and possible cases of occupational asthma were recruited from each of the collaborating hospitals, and the diagnosis was assessed according to an agreed standard. In addition, the route of referral for these patients and detail of their cases was explored by administering a standard questionnaire to the patients. Findings are discussed and several recommendations are made for reducing the incidence of asthma caused by exposure to substances at the workplace. (108159)
CIS 08-598 Risk of cancer of the colon and rectum in firemen. (French: Risques de cancer du côlon et du rectum chez les pompiers) McGregor D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. 26p. Illus. 91 ref. Price: CAD 7.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-165-1 (fr), ISBN 978-2-89631-167-5 (En) (In English, French) Internet: The objective of this literature survey was to evaluate the risk of developing certain types of cancer among firemen. It resulted in the publication of several reports. This report addresses the risk of colorectal cancer. It concludes that available epidemiological data do not provide sufficient proof about the etiological role of the firefighting occupation regarding the incidence of colon or rectal cancer or the mortality due to these cancers. See also CIS 08-599/601. (108063)
CIS 08-599 Risk of leukaemia in firemen. (French: Risque de leucémie chez les pompiers) McGregor D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. i, 24p. Illus. 63 ref. Price: CAD 7.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-169-9 (fr), ISBN 978-2-89631-171-2 (En) (In English, French) Internet: The objective of this literature survey was to evaluate the risk of developing certain types of cancer among firemen. It resulted in the publication of several reports. This report addresses the risk of leukaemia. It concludes that available epidemiological data do not generally support a conclusion in which the job of fire fighter constitutes an unequivocal risk of leukaemia. See also CIS 08-598 and 08-600/601. (108064)
CIS 08-600 Risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in firemen. (French: Risque de lymphome non hodgkinien chez les pompiers) McGregor D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. i, 23p. Illus. 61 ref. Price: CAD 7.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-173-6 (fr), ISBN 978-2-89631-175-0 (En) (In English, French) Internet: The objective of this literature survey was to evaluate the risk of developing certain types of cancer among firemen. It resulted in the publication of several reports. This report addresses the risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Firefighting involves exposure to possible carcinogenic substances such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzene, 1,3-butadiene and diesel emissions. Some publications have hypothesized that these chemicals could be involved in the development of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Available epidemiological data indicate either a slightly elevated risk or no increased risk of NHL among firefighters. The absence of a clearly defined mechanism also raises difficulties. Known or suspected risk factors for NHL are not found to be more prevalent among firefighters. Even if firefighters with NHL may have developed the disease as a result of their job, this conclusion cannot be derived from currently-available literature. See also CIS 08-598/599 and 08-601. (108065)
CIS 08-601 Risk of multiple myeloma and cancers of the respiratory system, oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, prostate, testes and skin in firemen. (French: Risque de myélome multiple et de cancers des voies respiratoires, de l'œsophage, de l'estomac, du pancréas, de la prostate, des testicules et de la peau chez les pompiers) McGregor D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. i, 37p. 79 ref. Price: CAD 8.40. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-177-4 (fr), ISBN 978-2-89631-179-8 (En) (In English, French) Internet: The objective of this literature survey was to evaluate the risk of developing certain types of cancer among firemen. It resulted in the publication of several reports. This report addresses the risk of multiple myeloma and cancers of the respiratory tract, oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, prostate, testicles and skin. It concludes that available epidemiological data do not indicate that the cancers examined in this analysis can be assumed to occur in firefighters as a result of their occupation. This conclusion is based on the absence of a significant increase in risk in most of the studies and the minimal increase in risk in the cases where it is present. See also CIS 08-598/600. (108067)
CIS 08-602 Value of partnership for workplace health promotion - Guideline for partnership building. Hämäläinen R.M., Dijkmann A., Ásgeirsdóttir Á.G., Van den Broek K., Haratau T., Kuhn K., Masanotti G., Pyżalski J., van Scheppingen A., Solé M.D., Ylikoski M., Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, FIOH-Bookstore, Topeliuksenkatu 41 a A, 00250 Helsinki, Finland, 2007. 64p. Illus. 35 ref. Price: EUR 19.00., ISBN 978-951-802-779-2 (In English) Internet: The concept of workplace health promotion (WHP) includes all the processes and structures in an organization that are directed at improving and developing work environment in order to optimize workers' health, work ability, and well-being. This guide to WHP explores the various aspects of partnership and partnership building between employers and employees. It provides a description of nine examples of partnership development processes in European countries, on topics such as disability management, assessment of physical work capacity, ageing of the workforce, information dissemination on health and safety at work, developing a health plan, implementation of integrated health management for small and medium sized enterprises, and training of occupational health practitioners. (108096)
CIS 08-603 Respiratory diseases due to the exposure to hard metal dust. (French: Affections respiratoires liées à l'exposition aux poussières de métaux durs) Bonneterre V., Maître A., Liaudy S., Perdrix A., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2007, No.155, 8p. 77 ref. (In French) Internet: Hard metals, essentially based on tungsten carbide (CW) and cobalt (Co), are generally produced using powder metallurgy processes such as hot isostatic pressing, more rarely by melting. Many groups of subjects are exposed to these metals during their production, machining, welding and brazing. Co alone can cause immunoallergies such as asthma or non-respiratory impairments; when linked to CW, sometimes together with other metal carbides, it can cause pulmonary fibrosis and bronchopulmonary cancers. Contents of this review article on respiratory diseases caused by exposure to hard metal dust: hard metal production processes; metabolism and monitoring of occupational exposure; pathological effects on the human organism; collective prevention measures; medical supervision; current procedures for obtaining occupational disease compensation in France. (108239)
CIS 08-604 Current understanding of occupational cancers. (French: Le point des connaissances sur les cancers professionnels) Brasseur G., Héry M., Leprince A., Pillière F., Dornier G., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 3rd ed., July 2007. 6p. Illus. 15 ref. Price: EUR 1.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1547-4 (In French) Internet: Occupational cancer encompasses numerous factors. The agents concerned can be chemical substances, but also physical or biological agents, or even industrial processes. These risks are run by a considerable proportion of employees. This information sheet presents various prevention initiatives, placing the emphasis on the information tools available to OHS professionals. Contents: classification of carcinogens; risks to humans; preventive approaches; list of carcinogens and cancers which are included in the tables of occupational diseases that are compensated in France. Replaces CIS 02-698. (108078)
CIS 08-605 Occupational cancers. General aspects. (French: Cancers professionnels. Généralités) Charbotel B., Normand J.C., Bergeret A., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 4th Quarter 2007, No.157, 8p. 32 ref. (In French) Internet: It is estimated that approximately 4% of all cancers result from occupational exposures. However, wide differences are observed depending on the cancer site. The two main carcinogen classifications are those of the European Community which has a legal bearing, and of the IARC, which is primarily based on scientific knowledge. In France, it is estimated that 13% of the working population is currently exposed to carcinogenic agents at work. The three most frequent occupational exposures are diesel fumes, mineral oils and wood dust. Employers are responsible for the prevention of risk at work. Risk assessment is the first step of the approach; next preventive measures and appropriate work procedures need to be defined. Priority must be given to the substitution of the dangerous substance by another product whenever technically feasible. Otherwise, protective measures are to be implemented. Some occupational cancers are listed in the tables of occupational diseases in France and can therefore be compensated. The number of compensated cancer cases has been rising during the last decade in France, reaching approximately 2000 cases in 2004. However the occupational origin of cancers is still under-diagnosed for some cancer sites. (108229)
CIS 08-606 Seafarers - Occupational safety and health goes to sea. (French: Les travailleurs de la mer - La prévention s'amarine) Cheneau V., Travail et sécurité, Feb. 2008, No.681, p.16-28. Illus. (In French) Internet: Topics addressed in the collection of articles on the hazards of working at sea: hazards caused by understaffing which leads to risk-taking; day-to-day account of a 15-day fishing campaign on board a trawler; key statistics of occupational accidents and diseases among French seafarers; remote medical consultation; stability of vessels at sea; hazards related to older vessels; occupational safety and health (noise attenuation on ships, first aid, personal protective equipment). (108178)
CIS 08-607 New direction drives safety success at APAC-Missouri. Babin Katz D., Kaufman J., Occupational Hazards, Jan. 2008, p.42-49. Illus. (In English) Internet: This article presents the results of the implementation of a safety programme at a major road building contractor in the United States, based on rewarding behaviours rather than injury statistics which are often flawed because of underreporting. It is based on individual e-learning, coupled with incentives for completing each module. Eleven months from the launch of the programme, the company's reportable injury rates, serious injuries, fleet incidents and claims cost per man hour were reduced by 63%, 75%, 70% and 90% respectively from the previous year. (108148)
CIS 08-608 Working conditions in international seafaring. Jensen O.C., Sørensen J.F.L., Thomas M., Canals M.L., Nikolic N., Hu Y., Occupational Medicine, Sep. 2006, Vol.56, No.6, p.393-397. Illus. 15 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this questionnaire survey was to assess the self-rated health status and the main characteristics of seafarers' working conditions. A total of 6461 seafarers in 11 countries responded. In general, the seafarers' self-rated health was good, but it declined significantly with age. Seafarers from South-East Asian countries spent longer time periods at sea, and had lower numbers of officers and older seafarers than found among seafarers from western countries. Most seafarers worked every day of the week and on average for 67-70h a week during periods of 2.5-8.5 months at sea. Other findings are discussed. (108220)
CIS 08-609 Designing the age-friendly workplace. Silverstein M., Occupational Hazards, Dec. 2007, p.29-32. Illus. 6 ref. (In English) Internet: There are growing numbers of older workers at work. The trend toward earlier and earlier retirement seems to have ended, with more workers intending to stay employed, either full or part time, often well past the traditional retirement age. As a result, the number and percentage of older workers will increase for the next 20 years. In the United States, the median age of the civilian labour force is expected to rise from 35 in 1984 to 41.6 by 2014. This article discusses the issues of ageing and working longer, including physical and mental capacity, cognitive performance, experience and motivation. It presents the key aspects of successful programmes for employing older workers, including work environment, work organization, health promotion and social measures. (108141)
CIS 08-610 Migrant workers. Wickramasekara P., Zhu C., Lee J.W., Temmyo Y., Kawamoto H., Torii I., Udo H., Srivastava A.K., Mathur N., Rantanen J., Lehtinen S., Kawakami T., Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Sep. 2007, Vol.14, No.2, p.27-47 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl. ref. (In English) Internet: Collection of articles on migrant workers of relevance to countries in the Asian-Pacific region. Contents: improving occupational safety and health of migrant workers in China; systematic approach for the prevention of occupational accidents among migrant workers in Korea; helping foreign migrant workers in Japan receive adequate medical and occupational health services; occupational diseases among migrant labour in traditional brick kilns in India. Other topics: basic occupational health services for Vietnam and China; review of a WHO workshop on improving workers' health; advancement of national OSH programmes in Asia; the WHO occupational health programme in Europe. (108095)
CIS 08-611 Older workers - From management by age to a management of age. (French: Seniors - D'une gestion par l'âge à une gestion des âges) Ravallec C., Vaudoux D., Travail et sécurité, Jan. 2008, No.680, p.14-27. Illus. 7 ref. (In French) Internet: Topics addressed in this collection of articles on the employment of workers aged over 55 years: proportion of the working population among persons aged over 55 years in various European countries; causes of work inaptitude among persons over 55 years old (musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disorders, depression); adapting workplaces and working conditions to older workers; measures adopted by certain French enterprises (aerospace industry, food processing industry); policies adopted by Finland which has among the highest proportion of employment of older workers in Europe. (108177)
CIS 08-612 Panorama of occupational hazards in the agricultural sector. (Spanish: Panorámica de los riesgos laborales en el sector agrario) Ministerio de trabajo, empleo y seguridad social, Superintendencia de Riesgos del Trabajo (SRT), Bartolomé Mitre 751, C1036AAM Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina, [2007?]. 16p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: Agricultural activity involves important health and safety hazards for workers. In Argentina in 2005, the incidence rate of occupational accidents and diseases in this sector was 113.96 per thousand insured workers. This document presents the statistical trends for accident indicators in agriculture, fishing, hunting and livestock rearing for the period from 2000 to 2005, together with trends in the number of workers and employers covered by the insurance scheme. (108041)
CIS 08-613 Working conditions and health of women in the Peruvian asparagus industry in the region of Ica. (Spanish: Condiciones de trabajo y salud de las mujeres trabajadoras de la agroindustria del espárrago, región Ica) Arroyo Aguilar R., Ynoñan García P., Yupanqui Atahualpa L., Hermoza Lanao A., Instituto de salud y trabajo (ISAT), Av. Almado Márquez 1875, Jesus María, Lima, Peru, 2004. 55p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: The asparagus industry of Peru is one of the most important non-traditional export sectors. This study was carried out in the region of Ica with the aim of collecting information on conditions of work in this sector, which employs a high proportion of women both in the fields and in the packaging industry. The study was carried out in three phases. A first phase consisted in defining the characteristics of work processes in the asparagus food industry, both in the processing plants and in the fields, together with the possible hazards and effects on health. Next, an ergonomic analysis of the tasks was conducted. Finally, the social and economic implications for women working in this sector were examined. (108049)
CIS 08-614 Construction safety manual. Heberle D., McGraw-Hill, 11 West 19th Street, New York, NY 10011, USA, 1998. xx, 508p. Illus. Index., ISBN 0-07-034339-X (In English) Internet: Ensuring workers' safety is a very important part of the cost of doing business. With this practical, easy-to-use guide to construction safety, builders and contractors can educate workers about necessary safety techniques and emergency procedures. The book also includes information on OSHA and other regulatory standards. It is divided into four parts: basic principles of safety management; setting-up an effective safety management system; personal protective equipment; recognizing and dealing with the various worksite conditions and hazards. (108097)
CIS 08-615 Construction safety. Hinze J.W., Prentice Hall Inc., Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458, USA, 1997. xviii, 332p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index., ISBN 0-13-377912-2 (In English) Internet: This manual is a compilation of a vast number of construction safety studies. It is designed to allow easy implementation of the principles and practices described in each study. It is aimed at helping construction managers, engineers or architects understand the basic principles and latest research in construction safety. It includes a review of OSHA guidelines, together with summaries of the latest research presented in a way that managers can use immediately. There is an emphasis on the principles of accident prevention. A specific chapter addresses the issue of the true costs of construction worker injuries. (108098)
CIS 08-616 Implementation of safety and health on construction sites. Alves Dias L.M., Coble R.J., eds., A.A. Balkema, P.O.Box 1675, 3000 BR Rotterdam, Netherlands, 1996. xiv, 601p. Illus. Bibl.ref., ISBN 90-5410-847-9 (In English) Internet: Proceedings of a conference on safety and health on construction sites held in Lisbon, Portugal, in September 1996. Sessions included: safety and health regulations and statistics; planning and controlling construction safety; social and human issues on construction safety; health issues in the construction process; technological innovations in construction safety. (108099)
CIS 08-617 Handbook of OSHA construction safety and health. Reese C.D., Eidson J.V., CRC Press, 6000 Broken Sound Parkway, NW, (Suite 300), Boca Raton, FL 33487, USA, 1999. 996p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index., ISBN 1-56670-297-6 (In English) Internet: This handbook is aimed at safety professionals, contractors, project managers and owners who have the responsibility of implementing an effective on-site safety and health programme. These professionals are in charge of everything from the safe operation of equipment to the safe removal of hazardous waste from the construction site. It is a practical guide that can be used by the construction industry on existing and future sites. Topics addressed: perceptions in the construction industry; the people issue in safety and health; safety and health programmes; analyzing hazards; accident prevention techniques; construction safety; industrial hygiene activities; personal protective equipment; ergonomics; OSHA compliance; construction standards; workers compensation. (108100)
CIS 08-618 An analysis of the significant causes of fatal and major injuries in construction in Scotland. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. xx, 171p. Illus. 72 ref. (In English) Internet: This report describes a study to investigate the factors responsible for the higher accident rate in the Scottish construction sector than in the rest of the United Kingdom. This involved identifying the most significant causes of fatal and major accidents, followed by an examination of national differences with particular focus on factors that can be influenced by HSE and the construction industry to reduce accident rates. Accident data reported under the requirements of the RIDDOR regulations (see CIS 95-1930) and Labour Force Survey data were analysed, and interviews and site visits were conducted in both Scotland and England. Findings indicate that the most significant factor in explaining the difference in accident rates is the differing occupational make up of Scotland, with proportionally many more manual workers. (108162)
CIS 08-619 Health and working conditions in the transport of goods by road. (Spanish: Salud y condiciones de trabajo en el transporte de mercancías por carretera) Ministerio de sanidad y consumo, Escuela Nacional de Medicina del Trabajo, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain, 2007. 240p. Illus., ISBN 978-84-95463-47-0 (In Spanish) Internet: This publication presents the findings of a questionnaire survey on the state of health and conditions of work in the sector of the transport of goods by road carried out in Spain in 2005, with the participation of 1129 employed or self-employed truck drivers. Furthermore, based on the responses, an analysis was carried out of the factors influencing health in this sector, together with a study of safety and health organization and protective measures implemented within the enterprises. The questionnaire is included in an appendix. (108197)
CIS 08-620 Preliminary diagnosis of the working conditions and work environment in sawmilling - Argentinean Mesopotamia. (Spanish: Prediagnóstico sobre condiciones y medio ambiente del trabajo en la actividad de aserraderos - Mesopotamia) Alberto M., Iñiguez M.J.I., Marensi P., Ministerio de trabajo, empleo y seguridad social, Superintendencia de Riesgos del Trabajo (SRT), Bartolomé Mitre 751, C1036AAM Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2006. 87p. Illus. + CD-ROM. (In Spanish) Internet: The Mesopotamia (or Littoral) region of Argentina was selected for this pre-study on the working conditions and work environment in sawmills, considering that 46.3% of the enterprises listed at the national level are located in this region. The objectives of the study were to describe and analyse work processes and organization, and to evaluate the infrastructures, machinery protective systems and main hazards (physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic and related to work organization) inherent to the various process steps. The report is also available in electronic form on a CD-ROM (in PDF format). (108042)
CIS 08-621 A global exploitative chain: The case of women making gold chains. (Spanish: Una cadena global de explotación: caso de las trabajadoras tejedoras de cadenitas de oro) Masilla J.C., Ynoñan García P., Instituto de salud y trabajo (ISAT), Av. Almado Márquez 1875, Jesus María, Lima, Peru, 2004. 59p. Illus. 25 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: The aim of this document is to highlight the work of women in the Peruvian jewellery sector and in particular to analyse the conditions of work among women producing chains at home, a type of work requiring dexterity and fine fingers, which is why it is exclusively assigned to women. The document comprises two parts. A first part presents a brief overview of the Peruvian economy and the promotion of jewellery exports, followed by a description of the jewellery tasks carried out by the women, together with the main aspects of Peruvian labour legislation. The second part seeks to shed light on the real situation and the precarious nature of the work of women who make chains at home. It examines in particular the characteristics of this worker population, their conditions of work and the consequences of this work on their health. (108047)
CIS 08-622 Annex 1 of the occupational safety and health regulations applicable to the cable television sector [Argentina]. (Spanish: (SITIL): Reglamento de seguridad e higiene en el trabajo para el sector de televisión por cable - Anexo I) Superintendencia de Riesgos del Trabajo (SRT), Sindicato argentino de televisión, Quintino Bocayuva 50, Capital Federal, Argentina, 2003. 31p. (In Spanish) Internet: Annex 1 of the occupational safety and health regulations applicable to the cable television sector of 22 May 2003. Contents: scope; responsibilities of employers, employees and insurance institutions; training and aptitude; general conditions; work on roads; signalling; excavations; electrical installations; ladders; work at heights; work on poles; work at workers' homes; personal protective equipment; joint safety and hygiene committee; occupational medicine services and occupational safety and health. (108192)
CIS 08-623 Step by step - Examples showing how countries identify the dangerous forms of child labour - Volume I: Costa Rica, The Netherlands, Pakistan, Sri Lanka. (Spanish: Paso a paso - Ejemplos de cómo los países determinan trabajo infantil peligroso - Volumen I: Costa Rica, Holanda, Pakistán, Sri Lanka) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, no date. 19p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This booklet summarizes the six steps for identifying the forms of work that are dangerous for children: create a structure; collect existing and new data; draw up a list of hazardous occupations; formalise the list; promote and use the list; periodically update the list. For each of the steps, it then presents the actions that were undertaken in this respect in Costa Rica, Netherlands, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. (108050)
CIS 08-624 Safe maternity and the world of work. (French: Maternité sans risques et le monde du travail; Spanish: La maternidad sin riesgo y el mundo del trabajo) ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. vi, 28p. Illus. 55 ref., ISBN 978-92-2-120403-9 (En), ISBN 978-92-2-220403-8 (fr), ISBN 978-92-2-320403-7 (es) (In English, French, Spanish) Internet: Maternal mortality is very high in developing countries. This report explains how it can be reduced by action at the workplace. It argues that while decent work and poverty reduction are key to improving the health of women everywhere, social health protection is essential to protect women and their families against the financial burden of maternal health care. Social health protection provides financial accessibility to health care services. Main topics covered in this booklet: reality and reasons for maternal mortality; improving maternity protection and health through the workplace; implementing, extending and improving social health protection; promoting decent work for health workers. An appendix lists the countries having ratified various international labour standards with particular relevance to maternity and to health workers. (108092)
CIS 08-625 Trafficking and exploitation of Chinese immigrants in France. (French: Le trafic et l'exploitation des immigrants chinois en France) Yun G., Poisson V., ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2005. xviii, 142p. Illus. 131 ref. Price: CHF 27.50., ISBN 92-2-217070-9 (In French) Internet: This report presents the findings of a study on human trafficking and forced labour conducted in France, based on the accounts of Chinese migrant workers, institutions and charities. It first describes the research framework, and then examines the migration journey of Chinese migrants (causes for leaving, terms of the passage, migration route, living conditions in the host country). Means of fighting against human trafficking and forced labour are next analyzed. Finally, a collection of observations arte presented. The qualitative approach based on case descriptions allows the taking into account of the human and psychological aspects of migration, which are necessary conditions for approaching the concepts of vulnerability and victimization. (108199)
CIS 08-626 Deep-sea fishermen. (French: Le marin-pêcheur) Landrin D., Eusen Y., Boitel L., Bonnet A.S., Dupuis E., Gaillard A., Letheux C., Ozkan-Rabret E., Rat de Coquard M., Sawicki B., Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2007, Vol.47, No.3, 2p. Insert. (In French) Internet: The job of seep-sea fishermen is characterized by the variety of tasks to be accomplished, including fishing itself, the maintenance of fishing gear, on-deck watch duty, ship maintenance and cooking. From the standpoint of occupational medicine, work aptitude needs to take into account two essential characteristics found onboard trawlers: the close dependency of the men on each other during their work and the remoteness of medical help. Contents of this occupational medical information sheet on the job of deep-sea fishermen: related occupations; description of the work; characteristics of the work environment (possible health hazards and effects); work organization (work hours and constraints); tasks carried out and their possible effects on health; products used and their possible effects on health; tools and equipment used and their possible effects on health; work clothing and protective gear; statistics of fishing accidents in France. (108086)
CIS 08-627 Coal contractor mining facts - 2004. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: In the United States in 2004, 2550 mining contractors reported employment, occupational accident and occupational disease data to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. They employed 30,228 workers, corresponding to 17,964 full-time equivalent employees and to 6.6% of all employee hours in the coal mining sector. This information sheet summarizes the key statistics for coal miner contractors in 2004, including fatalities, non-fatal injuries (mainly due to materials handling, slips and falls, with the back being the most frequently-injured part of the body) and occupational diseases (hearing loss, coal workers' pneumoconiosis). (108121)
CIS 08-628 Sand & gravel operator mining facts - 2004. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: In the United States in 2004, 7074 sand and gravel mining operations reported employment, occupational accident and occupational disease data to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Sand and gravel mines were the largest mining sector, comprising 48.9% of all mining operations. They employed 37,000 workers, corresponding to 33,364 full-time equivalent employees and to 12.3% of all employee hours in the mining sector. This information sheet summarizes the key statistics for sand and gravel mining operations in 2004, including fatalities, non-fatal injuries (mainly due to materials handling, slips and falls, with the back being the most frequently-injured part of the body) and occupational diseases (joint, tendon or muscle inflammation or irritation, hearing loss and heat stroke). (108122)
CIS 08-629 Stone operator mining facts - 2003. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Feb. 2005. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: In the United States in 2003, 4357 stone mining operations reported employment, occupational accident and occupational disease data to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Stone mines comprised 30.3% of all mining operations. They employed 67,474 workers, corresponding to 69,239 full-time equivalent employees. Within the mining sector, stone mine operator employees accounted for 27% of all employee hours reported. This information sheet summarizes the key statistics for stone mining operators in 2003, including fatalities, non-fatal injuries (mainly due to materials handling, slips and falls, with the back being the most frequently-injured part of the body) and occupational diseases (joint, tendon or muscle inflammation or irritation, hearing loss and heat stroke). (108123)
CIS 08-630 Nonmetal operator mining facts - 2004. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: In the United States in 2004, 741 nonmetal mining operations (including clay, potash, gypsum and salt) reported employment, occupational accident and occupational disease data to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. They employed 19,432 workers, corresponding to 20,183 full-time equivalent employees and to 7.4% of all employee hours in the mining sector. This information sheet summarizes the key statistics for nonmetal mining operations in 2004, including fatalities, non-fatal injuries (mainly due to materials handling, slips and falls, with the back being the most frequently-injured part of the body) and occupational diseases (joint, tendon or muscle inflammation or irritation, hearing loss, pneumoconiosis). (108124)
CIS 08-631 Mining facts - 2004. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: In the United States in 2004, 14,478 mining operations reported employment, occupational accident and occupational disease data to statistics to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Almost half (48.9%) were sand and gravel mines, followed by stone mines (30.4%), coal mines (13.9%), nonmetal mines (5.1%), and metal mines (1.7%). The sector employed 223,078 workers, corresponding to 230,860 full-time equivalent employees. Employee hours for mine operators working at underground and surface locations accounted for 19.5%, and 80.5% respectively of total employee hours worked in the mining sector. This information sheet summarizes the key statistics for the mining sector in 2004, including fatalities, non-fatal injuries (mainly due to materials handling, slips and falls, with the back being the most frequently-injured part of the body) and occupational diseases (joint, tendon or muscle inflammation or irritation, hearing loss, coal workers' pneumoconiosis, silicosis). (108125)
CIS 08-632 Coal operator mining facts - 2004. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: In the United States in 2004, 2011 coal mining operations reported employment, occupational accident and occupational disease data to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. They comprised 13.9% of all mining operations and employed 73,024 employees, corresponding to 80,069 full-time equivalent employees. This information sheet summarizes the key statistics for both coal mining operations in 2004, including fatalities, non-fatal injuries (mainly due to materials handling, slips and falls, with the back being the most frequently-injured part of the body) and occupational diseases (joint, tendon or muscle inflammation or irritation, hearing loss, coal workers' pneumoconiosis). (108126)
CIS 08-633 Underground and surface mining facts - 2004. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: In the United States 2004, data obtained from the Mine Safety and Health Administration indicated a total of 891 (6.2%) underground and 13,587 surface (93.8%) mining operations. A total of 46,360 (48,183 full-time equivalent) employees were employed at underground mining locations, while 249,457 (222,839 full-time equivalent) employees were employed at surface locations. This information sheet summarizes the key statistics for both underground and surface mining operations in 2004, including fatalities, non-fatal injuries (mainly due to materials handling, slips and falls, with the back being the most frequently-injured part of the body) and occupational diseases (joint, tendon or muscle inflammation or irritation). (108127)
CIS 08-634 Metal operator mining facts - 2004. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Sep. 2007. 2p. Illus. (In English) Internet: In the United States in 2004, 251 metal mining operations reported employment, occupational accident and occupational disease data to the Mine Safety and Health Administration. Metal mines comprised 1.7% of all mining operations. They employed 25,205 workers, corresponding to 26,091 full-time equivalent employees. This information sheet summarizes the key statistics for metal mining operations in 2004, including fatalities, non-fatal injuries (mainly due to materials handling, slips and falls, with the back being the most frequently-injured part of the body) and occupational diseases (joint, tendon or muscle inflammation or irritation, hearing loss, sunstroke). (108128)
CIS 08-635 Manual of regulations and prevention of occupational hazards. (Spanish: Manual de normas y prevención de los riesgos de trabajo) Superintendencia de Riesgos del Trabajo (SRT),, Centro de Capacitación Profesional de la Federación Obrera Ceramista de la República Argentina. Doblas 629, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina, [ca 2007]. 36p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: Aimed at workers in the ceramics industry, the objective of this booklet is to create awareness of the importance of prevention for avoiding occupational accidents and diseases. Contents: Argentinean regulations and responsibilities of each party; main risk factors and occupational diseases in the ceramics industry; first aid; joint safety and hygiene committees. (108052)
CIS 08-636 Everything you need to know about child labour. (Spanish: Todo lo que necesita saber sobre trabajo infantil) Sistema de Información Regional sobre Trabajo Infantil (SIRTI), ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2006. CD-ROM. (In Spanish) Internet: This CD-ROM includes information on child labour and other forms of exploitation in Latin America and the Caribbean, grouped under the following main headings: the issue of child labour; child labour statistics; types of work for which children are employed; other forms of child exploitation (slave trade, prostitution, forced enrolment into militia); actions undertaken for eradicating child labour. Each section includes a large number of references on child labour in PDF format (booklets, manuals, reports, posters). (108051)
CIS 08-637 Employers' organizations and enterprise development in the informal economy: Moving from informality to formality. ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2006. CD-ROM., ISBN 92-2-118662-8 (In English) Internet: Over the past few years, the Bureau for Employers' Activities (ACT/EMP) has been carrying out a programme to assist employers' organizations analyse and take action on the informal economy with the overall aim of stimulating enterprise development within the formal economy. This programme was designed to give effect to the conclusions of the 2002 International Labour Conference. This CD-COM contains documents in HTML and PDF formats explaining the role of employers' organizations in the informal economy, and presenting country and regional experiences in a number of developing countries, together with a number of reference documents. The section concerning Latin America includes both English and Spanish versions. (108091)
CIS 08-638 Production and industrial use of nanostructured particles. (French: Production et utilisation industrielle des particules nanostructurées) Honnert B., Vincent R., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.209, p.5-21. Illus. 20 ref. (In French) Internet: This article describes the current situation with respect to nanoparticles that are currently produced on an industrial scale as well as those likely to face important industrial developments, namely titanium dioxide, carbon black, amorphous silica and various forms of alumina. It also discusses nanoparticles of secondary importance in terms of quantities (rare earths) or emerging products such as carbon nanotubes and nanoclays. For all these categories of products, a quantitative assessment is provided on the number of workers likely to be exposed during production operations, together with indications of the potential areas of use. (108171)
CIS 08-639 Nanotechnology - The next industrial revolution. (French: Nanotechnologie - Vers la prochaine révolution industrielle) Ostiguy C., Travail et santé, Dec. 2007, Vol.23, No.4, p.10-15. Illus. 3 ref. (In French) Internet: Topics addressed in this review article on nanoparticles and nanotechnologies: definitions; research and development; examples of nanoparticles (carbon fullerenes and nanotubes, cadmium selenide, titanium dioxide, iron oxide); health hazards (toxicity related to particle size, capability of nanoparticles to migrate within the body); protective measures and limitation of exposure. (108179)
CIS 08-640 Safer tools thanks to 3D simulation and virtual reality. (French: Des outils plus sûrs grâce à la simulation 3D et à la réalité virtuelle) Richez J.P., Favier A.L., Ravallec C., Travail et sécurité, Dec. 2007, No.679, p.16-28. Illus. (In French) Internet: 3D simulation techniques and virtual reality are tools that allow interesting possibilities for designing safer work equipment. Topics addressed in this collection of articles on these new technologies: numerical simulation for adapting work to humans and designing safer work environments; virtual reality and the prevention of occupational hazards; virtual training tool adopted by a tyre manufacturer; use of virtual reality for the design and layout of a aircraft engine maintenance workshop, taking safety, ergonomics and production aspects into account (108090)
CIS 08-641 Wireless remote control systems used in industry (WRCS). (French: Les télécommandes industrielles sans fil (TCISF)) Pagliero D., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Feb. 2008. 4p. Illus. (In French) Internet: This leaflet on remote control systems used in industry explains how they work, how to install them, their use and the safety rules to be followed with respect to persons positioned near such systems in the event of a malfunctioning. (108186)
CIS 08-642 Occupational exposure to mineral fibres - Analysis of the results referenced in the COLCHIC database. (French: Exposition professionnelle aux fibres minérales - Analyse des résultats archivés dans la base de données COLCHIC) Kauffer E., Vincent R., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.209, p.59-71. 16 ref. (In French) Internet: This article presents data on exposures to mineral fibres referenced in the COLCHIC database, which includes the records of all occupational exposure data collected by the French regional mutual occupational accident insurance institutions (CRAM) and the French National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (INRS). Altogether 8029 records were available on fibre concentrations, expressed in terms of the number of fibres detected by optical phase contrast microscopy. Data are presented by sectors of activity, enabling the highlighting situations where protective measures are the most needed. The analysis of exposure level trends from 1984 to 2004 shows that they were largely influenced by threshold limit values. The use of respiratory personal protective equipment by workers is also discussed. (108174)
CIS 08-643 Effects of lead on the adult brain: A 15-year exploration. Stewart W.F., Schwartz B.S., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007, Vol.50, p.729-739. Illus. 46 ref. (In English) Internet: Three independent longitudinal studies were initiated to determine whether cumulative lead exposure was associated with persistent or progressive neurotoxic effects. The studies include former United States organolead manufacturing workers, current and former inorganic lead workers in Korea and Baltimore residents with environmental lead exposure. In each of these studies, blood lead was measured, as well as tibia and patella lead by X-ray fluorescence. Higher tibia lead was consistently associated with poorer measures of cognitive function. Longitudinal analysis of the Korean and organolead cohort indicate that the effect of lead is persistent. Moreover, MRI data on organolead workers indicates a possible progressive effect. Higher tibia lead was associated with lower brain volume. Findings suggest that a significant proportion of what is considered to be normal age-related cognitive decline may, in fact, be due to past exposure to neurotoxicants such as lead. (108030)
CIS 08-644 Centres for the collection of diffuse hazardous wastes - Characterization of potential hazards. (French: Les centres de regroupement des déchets dangereux diffus - Caractérisation des risques potentiels) Savary B., Vincent R., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.209, p.23-29. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: The complexity of managing the disposal of low-concentration hazardous wastes is due to their nature and their highly-diverse sources. Furthermore, they are often contained in small-sized packaging. The objective of this study was to characterize chemical hazards in hazardous waste collection facilities. Work procedures in several centres were observed. These procedures are essentially manual and the protective measures implemented are often inadequate. The problem is even more pronounced for the collection of household hazardous waste, given that no analyses are carried out on wastes collected from public waste disposal facilities and no information on the possible presence of hazardous chemicals is currently communicated to the processing operators. Various measures aimed at improving the flow of information to the operators of waste disposal facilities are proposed. (108172)
CIS 08-645 Profiles of perchloroethylene exposure in dry cleaning services. (French: Profils d'exposition au perchloroéthylène dans le secteur du nettoyage à sec) Poirot P., Lecler M.T., Galland B., Hubert-Pelle G., Nicot T., Grosjean J., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.209, p.43-58. Illus. 32 ref. (In French) Internet: This article describes the current situation with respect to the concentrations of perchloroethylene to which workers of dry cleaning services are exposed. Average exposure ranges between 25 and 60ppm in industrial dry cleaning services and approximately 10ppm in retail services. The use of direct reading instruments such as photoionization detectors which can be carried by workers enabled the highlighting of multiple exposure peaks of up to 1000ppm, especially when opening machine hatches or performing special operations on the equipment. Overall, 80% of exposure profiles feature at least one peak equal to or greater than 100ppm during one minute or more, with a clear prevalence in industrial dry cleaning services. Other findings are discussed. (108173)
CIS 08-646 Study of CMRs in hazardous waste. (French: Etude des composés CMR dans les déchets dangereux) Chollot A., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.209, p.73-88. Illus. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: This article presents the findings of a study on the exposure of waste disposal workers to carcinogens, mutagens and reprotoxic agents (CMRs). A first part describes the methodology used for the survey. Next, the results are presented in the form of tables and graphs. A final section outlines proposed operating procedures for improving protection against risks posed by CMRs, including the formalization of information transfer to the parties concerned. (108175)
CIS 08-647 Forestry and exposure to benzene - Survey findings. (French: Bûcheronnage et exposition au benzène - Résultats d'une enquête) Gaudin R., Marsan P., Baty G., Orivelle D., Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.209, p.89-93. Illus. 9 ref. (In French) Internet: Benzene is a chemical agent that is potentially responsible for increased risks of leukaemia among certain categories of workers exposed to engine fuels. This article describes a study aimed at evaluating the exposure to benzene among loggers and forestry workers, using a biological sampling method. A total of 55 volunteers were subjected to urine sampling before and after a day of work. They also answered a questionnaire on their work and several personal factors, including their smoking habits. It was found that exposures were very moderate, well within permissible levels. This was equally true for smokers, despite the strong effect of smoking on biological markers of benzene exposure. (108176)
CIS 08-648 Isothiazolines: Their role in the development of occupational contact dermatitis. (Spanish: Isotiazolinas: importancia en el desarrollo de dermatitis de contacto profesional) Cabrera Fernández E., Moreno Manzano G., Barchino Ortiz L., Pérez García V., Heras Mendaza F., Conde Salazar L., Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Sep. 2007, Vol.LIII, No.208, p.1-8. Illus. 26 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: The purpose of this study was to highlight the effect of Kathon, a mixture of two isothiazolines, in the development of contact dermatitis in certain occupations. Medical files of 2333 patients having consulted the INHST dermatology services between 2004 and 2006 were examined. A total of 110 cases of Kathon sensitization were identified, of which 32 clearly had occupational causes while 13 were doubtful. Some patients also showed positive reactions to several sensitizing agents other than Kathon. Occupations within which the highest numbers of cases of contact dermatitis were found were hairdressing, perfume manufacture, mechanical goods manufacture, the cosmetics industry and cleaning. (108057)
CIS 08-649 Latex allergies among health care workers (I). Medical surveillance. (Spanish: Alergia al latex en los trabajadores sanitarios (I). Vigilancia de la salud) Gil Micharet M.S., Barriga Medina F.J., Pérez de Villar Grande J.A., Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Sep. 2007, Vol.LIII, No.208, p.53-61. 32 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Latex allergy is an important health issue among heath services workers given its high prevalence and the severity of reactions it can cause. Following a brief overview of the epidemiology and clinical data of latex allergies, this article goes on to propose a medical surveillance protocol for identifying workers likely to develop latex sensitization, and to make an early diagnosis allowing the implementation of measures for avoiding the incidence and progress of the disease. (108060)
CIS 08-650 Occupational exposure to asbestos and man-made vitreous fibres and risk of lung cancer: A multicentre case-control study in Europe. Carel R., Olsson A.C., Zaridze D., Szeszenia-Dabrowska N., Rudnai P., Lissowska J., Fabianova E., Cassidy A., Mates D., Bencko V., Foretova L., Jenout V., Fevotte J., Fletcher T., 't Mannetje A., Brennan P., Boffetta P., Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2007, Vol.64, No.8, p.502-508. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: To investigate the contribution of occupational exposure to asbestos and man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) to lung cancer, a multicentre case-control study was conducted in seven European countries during the period 1998-2002. Comprehensive occupational and sociodemographic information was collected from 2205 newly-diagnosed male lung cancer cases and 2305 controls matched by age, smoking habits and occupational exposures. The odds ratios (ORs) of lung cancer were 0.92 in Central and Eastern Europe and 1.85 in the United Kingdom. Similar ORs were found for exposure to amphibole asbestos. The OR for MMVF exposure was 1.23 with no significant differences by country. Possible reasons for the differences between the United Kingdom and the other countries are discussed. (108253)
CIS 08-651 Effects of mercury vapor exposure en neuromotor function in Chinese miners and smelters. Iwata T., Sakamoto M., Feng X., Yoshida M., Liu Y.J., Dakeishi M., Li P., Qiu G., Jiang H., Nakamura M., Murata K., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2007, Vol.80, No.5, p.381-387. Illus. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: Hand tremor and postural sway were measured in 27 miners and smelters in China occupationally exposed to mercury vapour and in 52 unexposed subjects. Urine samples were collected and total mercury and creatinine concentrations were determined. Data of the tremor and postural sway were analyzed using the fast Fourier transformation. The geometric means of the urinary mercury level (UHg) were 228µg/g creatinine for the exposed workers and 2.6µg/g creatinine for the unexposed subjects. Total tremor intensity and frequency-specific tremor intensities at 1-6 and 10-14Hz were significantly larger in the exposed workers than in the unexposed subjects, but they were not significantly related to the UHg among the exposed workers. In contrast, there were no significant differences in any postural sway parameters between the above two groups, but the transversal sway with eyes open was positively related to the UHg among the exposed workers. (108255)
CIS 08-652 Welding safety: Ventilation is a breath of fresh air. Prather B., Occupational Hazards, Dec. 2007, p.33-34. Illus. (In English) Internet: Airborne particles are categorized into three main types: large particles greater than 100μ in diameter which can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, but are not fine enough to reach the lungs; medium particles between one and 100μ in diameter which include pollen, large bacteria and coal dust, as well as dust produced during industrial processes including welding and grinding; they pose the greatest health risk, because they are able to penetrate the lungs where they settle; small particles of less than one micron in diameter which also pose serious health risks; they include viruses, small bacteria, metallic fumes and pigments. Given that there are an estimated 400,000 welders in the United States, it is important to understand the potential health consequences of particle inhalation and to choose the proper ventilation, filtration and protection systems for protecting welders from airborne particles. (108143)
CIS 08-653 The effect of work practices on personal exposure to glutaraldehyde among health care workers. Nayebzadeh A., Industrial Health, Apr. 2007, Vol.45, No.2, p.289-295. Illus. 24 ref. (In English) Internet: Glutaraldehyde can cause respiratory irritation and asthma among health care workers. In order to evaluate the effect of work practices and the ventilation system on exposure to glutaraldehyde, 42 breathing zone air samples were taken in five hospitals in Quebec, Canada. In addition, work practices and the presence or otherwise of local or general ventilation system were noted, and the rate of air change and the quantity of glutaraldehyde used were recorded. Geometric mean concentration of all samples was 0.025ppm. Statistical analysis indicated that work practice was the most important factor affecting the level of exposure to glutaraldehyde. In locations where poor or unsafe work practices were employed, the geometric mean concentrations were much higher (0.05 and 0.08ppm respectively). There was a higher prevalence of headache and itchy eyes among employees who worked where unsafe work practices were observed. (108254)
CIS 08-654 Inhalation and dermal exposure to eight antineoplastic drugs in an industrial laundry facility. Fransman W., Huizer D., Tuerk J., Kromhout H., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2007, Vol.80, No.5, p.396-403. Illus. 18 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of the study was to quantify dermal and inhalation exposure to antineoplastic drugs in a Dutch industrial laundry servicing a hospital and to test the efficiency of the washing procedure for removing these drugs. During four workdays, dermal and inhalation exposure to eight frequently-used antineoplastic drugs were measured for all persons involved in handling unwashed laundry. Furtherore, 10x10cm sections were cut before and after the washing procedure from 15 bedsheets that were collected in hospitals of patients who were treated with one of the selected antineoplastic drugs. No detectable levels of any of the antineoplastic drugs were found on workers' skin of hands or in any of the air samples. Only four out of the 15 bedsheets were contaminated with detectable levels of antineoplastic drugs before the washing procedure. After the pre-washing and after the complete washing procedure, no detectable levels of any of the drugs were found. (108257)
CIS 08-655 A review of carbon monoxide incident information for 2003/04. Dhanjal A.S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. vi, 87p. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this work is to identify common causes of carbon monoxide (CO) incidents related to appliance and system design, installation and maintenance in order to further improve customer safety, target expenditure on CO incident prevention and identify further research work. Data on all piped natural gas and LPG CO incidents that occurred in the United Kingdom from 1st April 2003 to 31 March 2004 were collected and analysed. During this period, there were 36 domestic piped natural gas incidents and two LPG incidents reported. Findings are discussed. (108160)
CIS 08-656 Genetic variation in susceptibility to chronic effects of organophosphate exposure. Cherry N.M., Durrington P.N., Mackness B., Mackness M.I., Smith A.E., Dipnall M., Povey A.C., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. x, 116p. Illus. 25 ref. (In English) Internet: A case-control study was carried out to investigate whether the ability to metabolize and detoxify organophosphorus compounds differed between sheep dippers with self-reported chronic ill-health (cases) and healthy dippers (referents) of similar age and with a similar dipping experience. A total of 175 cases and 235 controls were interviewed by a nurse and information on their current health and occupational history obtained. Blood samples were also taken, DNA was extracted and polymorphisms in genes associated with organophosphorus compound metabolism were determined. Cases were more likely to have at least one R allele at position 192 and both alleles of type LL at position 55 of the paraoxonase gene, and to have diazoxonase activity below the median. Other findings are discussed. (108023)
CIS 08-657 Reducing formaldehyde emissions - Changes in the formulation of binders in particleboard manufacturing plants. (French: Réduction de l'émission de formaldéhyde - Modification de la formulation du liant dans les usines de panneaux de particules) Chaala A., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. vii, 47p. Illus. 24 ref. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-191-0 (In French) Internet: In partnership with the IRSST and with the collaboration of particle board manufacturers, the Forest Product Processing Research and Expertise Services (SEREX) of Quebec was given the assignment to optimize formaldehyde resins currently used by modifying their formulation so that their processing would give rise to lower levels of emissions. This project involved modifying commercial urea formaldehyde resins, producing panels in the laboratory and on an industrial scale, characterizing these panels and determining the concentration of formaldehyde in the gases emitted during resin modification and panel manufacture and degassing. Not only were the formaldehyde emissions reduced, but the quality of the panels was also slightly improved. The immersion tests also showed that the panels thus produced were more water resistant than the panels manufactured using conventional resins. (108061)
CIS 08-658 In favour of banning the "dirty dozen". Saying no to the most harmful pesticides. (Spanish: Por la prohibición de la "docena sucia": No a los plaguicidas más nocivos) Instituto laboral andino (ILA), Av. Paseo de la Republica 3832, Oficina 502, San Isidro, Lima 27, Peru, 2006. 40p. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: This document consists of a plea for banning the "dirty dozen" organic compounds which are very difficult to eliminate (POP) and which are also highly-toxic pesticides. In this perspective, a survey was carried out among the Bolivian, Columbian, Ecuadorian and Peruvian sections of the Andean Consultative Council on Labour Issues (CCLA) on their perceptions with respect to impairments to health and the environment from these products in the respective countries. Findings are presented and discussed. (108048)
CIS 08-659 Air quality in veal calf barns. (French: Qualité de l'air dans les étables de veaux de lait) Lavoie J., Beaudet Y., Lemay S., Belzile M., Côté C., Godbout S., Roseberry K., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. 102p. Illus. 76 ref. Price: CAD 10.50. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-183-5 (In French) Internet: It is now recognized that the air quality in buildings used for animal production can affect the workers' quality of life and health as well as the productivity of the animals. Although this situation is well understood in the context of swine production, no study deals with veal calf breeding, which is expanding. The aim of this project was to characterize and quantify, by season, the chemical substances and biological agents present in the air of veal calf production buildings, to determine the risks to human health in relation to standards and guidelines, and to propose simple guidelines enabling facility managers to improve air quality, if needed. Results of the measurements show that there is no serious air quality issue in veal calf barns. (108062)
CIS 08-660 Use of sensitizers or irritants in a construction-trade teaching environment. (French: Utilisation de sensibilisants ou d'irritants dans un milieu d'enseignement de métiers de la construction) Roberge B., Lemey F., Gravel R., Audet E., Gautrin D., Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2007. viii, 51p. Illus. 14 ref. + CD-ROM. Price: CAD 7.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge., ISBN 978-2-89631-181-1 (In French) Internet: The objective of this study was to evaluate the exposure to sensitizing agents likely to exacerbate latent symptoms of asthma in the vocational training environment of apprentices of several building trades (carpentry, plastering, heating equipment). Exposure was evaluated using the HSE prediction model for a control level corresponding to the worst exposure scenario. The finding was that apprentices may be exposed to several sensitizing or irritant substances at more or less high concentrations, depending on the step in the task performed. Contrary to what happens in the workplace, no task lasted eight hours. The use of the products was intermittent and could extend over several days. Recommendations include implementing engineering controls, pursuing product substitution and developing a respiratory protection programme. (108079)
CIS 08-661 An evaluation of chemical disinfecting agents used in endoscopy suites in the NHS. Niven K., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. 28p. Illus. 102 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this research project was to evaluate alternatives to glutaraldehyde for the disinfection of endoscopes. Their benefits and limitations are discussed. The work was undertaken because of the historically high number of cases of occupational asthma caused by glutaraldehyde. It concludes that there is no single most appropriate disinfectant. Many users are moving away from glutaraldehyde towards other products, some of which are also regarded as potential respiratory allergens. The report includes approaches for limiting exposures to disinfecting agents based on HSE's COSHH Essentials (see CIS 00-675), including ventilation and containment. (108164)
CIS 08-662 Current understanding of amorphous forms of silica. (French: Le point des connaissances sur les silices amorphes) Ricaud M., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, July 2007. 5p. Illus. 5 ref. Price: EUR 1.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1518-4 (In French) Internet: Amorphous forms of silica are generally synthetic, with the exception of diatomaceous earth. They are found in the composition of many products including tyres, animal feed, toothpaste, cosmetics, paints and inks. The toxicity of amorphous silica remains low, contrary to that of crystalline silica. Thus, the IARC has concluded that based on available data, amorphous forms of silica cannot be classified as to their carcinogenicity to humans. Contents of this information sheet on amorphous forms of silica: production, use and properties; risks to human health (irritation of the skin and respiratory tract); protection and prevention measures; French regulations. (108073)
CIS 08-663 Concrete release agents - Composition, hazards, prevention measures. (French: Produits de démoulage des bétons - Composition, dangers, mesures de prévention) Courtois B., Serre P., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd. ed., July 2007. 8p. Illus. 11 ref. Price: EUR 2.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1530-6 (In French) Internet: Methods used for the building shell construction increasingly involve the off-site prefabrication of heavy reinforced concrete elements, together with on-site concrete cladding. Both methods require forms that need to be coated before use with a release agent. The chemical nature of these products as well as their mode of application can give rise to discomfort, and sometimes to serious health impairment. This booklet presents the main products used as release agents (mineral oils, synthetic oils, vegetable oils and release additives), their classification, their hazards and the preventive measures to be applied during their use. (108074)
CIS 08-664 Containment or removal of asbestos or asbestos-containing materials - A guide to prevention. (French: Travaux de retrait ou de confinement d'amiante ou de matériaux en contenant - Guide de prévention) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed., July 2007.102p. Illus. Price: EUR 12.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1544-3 (In French) Internet: The removal or containment of asbestos or asbestos-containing material (ACM) can engender risks, whether these materials are located in buildings, structures, equipment or plants, including in case of demolition. This guide is aimed at all parties involved in an on-site asbestos remediation operation (building owner, order giver, main contractor, enterprises, employers, occupational physicians, employees, OHS professionals), whether the operation was decided given the state of the ACMs or considering the nature of the work on buildings and plants requiring prior treatment of these materials. Contents: general aspects; technical and sampling requirements; removal or confinement of friable ACMs; removal or confinement of non-friable ACMs. Appendices include lists of relevant approved occupational diseases in France, French laws and regulations, lists of products containing asbestos and a check-list for evaluating exposure and preparing an action plan. Replaces CIS 00-68. (108075)
CIS 08-665 Toxicity of thermal decomposition products of plastics. (French: Toxicité des produits de dégradation thermique des matières plastiques) Lafon D., Garnier R., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2008, No.158, 12p. 51 ref. (In French) Internet: The thermal degradation of plastics is a process that usually produces complex chemical mixtures. The qualitative and quantitative composition of these products depends on the type of the polymer and additives, and on the temperature of degradation. This article presents the impact on health of occupational exposure to products formed during the thermal degradation of plastics at elevated temperatures. It reports the effects observed in humans after exposure to polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane, epoxy resins, polymethyl methacrylate, phenoplast and aminoplast resins. The frequency of the thermal degradation of plastics in occupational settings tends to increase because the techniques used to process thermoplastics usually require raised temperatures that enable materials to be moulded and extruded. These temperatures vary from one technique to the other and depend on the type of plastic. Human effects are mainly eye and respiratory irritation, asthma, rhinitis, and dermatitis. A well-known adverse effect of polytetrafluoroethylene is polymer fume fever with flu-like symptoms. (108189)
CIS 08-666 Occupational exposure limits for chemicals in Spain in 2008. (Spanish: Límites de exposición profesional para agentes químicos en España 2008) Ministerio de trabajo y asuntos sociales, Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 2007. 224p. 13 ref., ISBN 978-84-7425-746-5 (In Spanish) Internet: Following an introduction consisting of a review of current Spanish and European regulations, this booklet contains the following sections: objectives and scope; definitions; different types of exposure limits; list of substances and their exposure limits; carcinogenic or mutagenic chemicals; sensitizing chemicals; exposure limits currently being revised; general comment on biological threshold limits; list of biological threshold limits; biological threshold limits currently being revised; methods of sampling and analysis. Appendices include: chemicals classified by CAS number; R-phrases; additional information. Replaces CIS 07-672. (108193)
CIS 08-667 Iron poisoning. (French: Intoxications par le fer) Flesch F., Tournoud C., Thaon I., Benhassine E., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2007, No.154, 6p. 53 ref. (In French) Internet: Most acute intoxications caused by iron are the result of ferrous salt ingestion, either accidentally in children or more rarely in suicidal attempts among adults. The main toxic mechanism of iron is related to its capacity to induce the formation of free radicals, followed by lipid peroxidation. Classically, five clinical phases have been identified: gastrointestinal toxicity; transitory relative stability; systemic toxicity with shock, metabolic acidosis and coma; hepatotoxicity with coagulopathy; gastrointestinal scarring. Therapy includes supportive care, whole bowel irrigation and the use of deferoxamine, a specific iron chelator. Activated charcoal is ineffective. Chronic exposure to iron occurs primarily in occupational settings and causes pneumoconiosis following the inhalation of dust and iron oxides. Ocular siderosis is a chronic disease that may lead to a vision loss. It occurs when a particle containing iron penetrates in the eye. (108223)
CIS 08-668 Cytotoxic agents: Evaluation of occupational hazards. (French: Cytotoxiques: évaluation des risques professionnels) Falcy M., Pillière F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 4th Quarter 2007, No.157, 10p. 37 ref. (In French) Internet: Hazard evaluation by employers is a mandatory requirement for all workplaces and is also required for the use of drugs in healthcare environments. A first step of this evaluation consists of evaluating exposures. For each potential source (workplace atmospheres, contact surfaces) the means of investigation are presented together with the results obtained with cytostatic drugs. By comparing the total exposure of a healthcare worker with that of the treated patients, a safety factor comprised between 100 and 2000 can been calculated for some cytotoxic drugs. The effects of cytotoxic drugs have been widely described; they depend largely on the mode of action of these agents (activity on the cellular cycle and DNA). By comparing these effects with occupational exposures, the risk related to each effect is characterized: non specific (irritation, systemic toxicity) or specific (mutagenic, carcinogenic or toxic for reproduction). The risk of exposure is generally low for healthcare workers when preventive measures (including technical, medical and training measures) are correctly implemented. (108230)
CIS 08-669 Benign respiratory diseases caused by the inhalation of asbestos. (French: Maladies respiratoires bénignes liées à l'inhalation d'amiante) Ameille J., Clin-Godard B., Descatha A., Letourneux M., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 3rd Quarter 2007, No.156, 11p. 156 ref. (In French) Internet: Benign asbestos-related diseases may involve the lung or the pleura. Asbestosis is an interstitial pulmonary fibrosis caused by high levels of exposure to asbestos, which is becoming less frequent because of improved prevention measures. Asbestosis is associated with an increased risk of bronchial and lung cancer. By itself, pulmonary fibrosis may increase this risk regardless of the cumulative exposure to asbestos. Pleural plaques are circumscribed areas of fibrosis of the parietal layer of the pleura. Usually asymptomatic, they are by far the most frequent asbestos-related diseases. There is no evidence that subjects with pleural plaques present an increased risk of lung cancer or mesothelioma, compared to other subjects with similar exposure but without plaques. Benign pleural effusions and fibrosis of the visceral pleura are much less frequent. Fibrosis of visceral pleura may be responsible of chest pain and restrictive ventilatory impairment. It is radiologically characterized by the presence of parenchymal bands and/or rounded atelectasis in association with a pleural thickening. Procedures for the compensation of asbestos-related occupational diseases in France are reviewed. (108225)
CIS 08-670 Diseases caused by the inhalation of silica dust. (French: Pathologies dues à l'inhalation de poussières de silice) Dewitte J.D., Coman M., Marquet M., Loddé B., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 3rd Quarter 2007, No.156, 10p. Illus. 71 ref. (In French) Internet: Silica or silicon dioxide (SiO2) is an abundant component of the earth's crust. It may cause lung parenchyma lesions, silicosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Persons are in contact with this element in many occupational settings. The diagnosis of silicosis has been significantly modified by the development of thoracic computed tomography. Its carcinogenic effect, although acknowledged by the IARC, remains debated and constitutes the subject of numerous research efforts. The retention of these foreign particles within the respiratory pathways results in a deterioration of the immune system, inducing autoantibodies and autoimmune diseases, the best known being the Caplan-Colinet and Erasmus syndromes. The procedures for the compensation for respiratory diseases caused by the inhalation of dust containing silica in France are reviewed. (108226)
CIS 08-671 Organophosphorus, carbamate, synthetic pyrethroid and various other insecticides. (French: Insecticides organophosphorés, carbamates, pyréthrinoïdes de synthèse et divers) Testud F., Grillet J.P., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 2nd Quarter 2007, No.155, 24p. Illus. 187 ref. (In French) Internet: Insecticides consist of substances that are highly toxic for the central and/or peripheral nervous system. Their neurotoxicity is the reason behind both their effectiveness against insects and their toxic effects on humans. Recent regulatory trends have caused the withdrawal of many active substances, in particular organophosphorus compounds and carbamates. Pyrethroids are currently the most widely-used insecticides, in consideration of their effectiveness on insects coupled with their low mammalian toxicity. For each of the main classes of insecticides, this article presents the toxicokintetics, biochemical mode of action and toxic effects reported in humans in the main exposure settings, namely farming, public health and consumer use. (108240)
CIS 08-672 Toxicological data sheets. (French: Fiches toxicologiques) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2007. CD-ROM readable on Macintosh (OS X) or on PC (Windows 98 or higher). Price: EUR 20.00. (In French) Internet: CD-ROM including the complete collection of 266 data sheets published by the Institut national de recherche et de sécurité (INRS). These data sheets provide a technical and regulatory synthesis of information on hazards related to a product or a group of products. This electronic media allows several query modes: by data sheet number, product name, CAS registry number and EINECS number. It also contains labelling pictograms in colour. The CD-ROM can be installed on a single PC or on a server and runs under both Windows and Macintosh operating systems. Topics covered by each data sheet: uses; physical and chemical properties; methods of detection and determination in air; fire hazards; pathology and toxicology; current French occupational safety and health regulations in areas of occupational safety and hygiene, protection of the environment and transport; technical and medical recommendations. Internet version available free of charge. Replaces CIS 07-423. (108231)
CIS 08-673 NIOSH HazCom Writer. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, May 2007. CD-ROM for Microsoft Windows Operating Systems. (In English) Internet: Employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces are required to prepare and implement a written hazard communication program. This includes ensuring that all containers are labelled, employees are provided with access to material safety data sheets and an effective training program is conducted for all potentially exposed employees. This CD-ROM contains software to guide the person responsible for writing a hazard communication plan through the various steps involved in its preparation. The software is also downloadable from the NIOSH web site. (108241)
CIS 08-674 Presentation of sandwich panels. (Spanish: Una aproximación a los paneles sándwich) Luengo Cuadrado E., Mapfre seguridad, 4th Quarter 2007, Vol.27, No.108, p.24-39. Illus. 23 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article presents an overview of the characteristics of sandwich panels, which are widely-used materials in the construction industry. It describes their fire behaviour under various standard testing conditions as well as during real fires. Next, it proposes a framework for evaluating the risks due to sandwich panels as a function of the sector of activity, the type of building and their fire behaviour, based on which it is possible carry out a cost-risk analysis to support decisions for the selection of appropriate construction panels. (108210)
CIS 08-675 Pulse pressure testing of 1/4 scale blast wall panels with connections - Phase II. Schleyer G.K., Langdon G.S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. vi, 58p. Illus. 16 ref. (In English) Internet: This detailed experimental and numerical study examined 1/4 scale stainless steel blast wall panels and their connections under pulse pressure loading. The panel design was based on the deep trough trapezoidal profile with welded angle connections top and bottom and free sides. Three types of connection systems were studied, namely a short, medium and long welded angle connection, in order to compare the influence of the angle length. Large permanent plastic deformations were produced in the connection system without rupture. An earlier phase of the study had established that modelling the support correctly was fundamental to the response of the blast wall and could significantly affect its ultimate capacity. (108020)
CIS 08-676 Design, materials and connections for blast-loaded structures. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. iv, 73p. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: This report describes the development and validation of a simplified tool for analysing the response of a structure to blast based on static finite element (FE) analysis. It was used to carry out multiple analyses of simple structures using blast type pulses of different geometries, durations and peak pressures. The results of the analyses were then compared against non-linear full model FE analyses. Findings are discussed. (108021)
CIS 08-677 High pressure, high temperature developments in the United Kingdom Continental Shelf. Glass A.W., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. xii, 47p. Illus. 40 ref. (In English) Internet: This report discusses the safety aspects of high-temperature and high-pressure (HTHP) oil extraction techniques to be used in the United Kingdom continental shelf (UKCS). Contents: summary of the scope for HPHT developments in the UKCS; review of HPHT incidents and definition of the associated safety issues; review of the engineering and management solutions implemented by the UKCS industry; conclusion that although the UKCS industry is on the right track, a number of issues still need to be solved. Based on workshop discussions, a number of collaborative research and development projects are identified, together with other issues that require attention. (108024)
CIS 08-678 Offshore gas turbines (and major driven equipment) integrity and inspection guidance notes. Wall M., Lee R., Frost S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. x, 135p. Illus. 38 ref. (In English) Internet: Gas turbines are widely used offshore for a variety of purposes including power generation, compression, pumping and water injection. This report is primarily designed to provide information for HSE inspectors in safety assessments, incident investigations and prior to site visits. It provides a detailed assessment of gas turbines and major driven equipment installed on offshore installations, focussing on maintenance issues. The applications, systems and components of gas turbines are reviewed. Guidance is given on maintenance issues typical for different systems. Summaries are given of database information on the turbines installed on installations in the British sector of the North Sea, together with recent incident and accident data. Recent experience and information from operators is also reviewed. (108151)
CIS 08-679 An evaluation of current legislative requirements for verification of elements critical to the safety of offshore installations. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. xvi, 26p. Illus. 3 ref. (In English) Internet: This report presents and discusses research undertaken to evaluate the effects of the amendment made in 1996 to the Offshore Installations (Safety Case) Regulations (1992) which introduced a requirement for the verification of the safety-critical elements of an offshore installation by an independent and competent person. Prior to the introduction of verification, offshore installations were required to have a Certificate of Fitness. The present work attempted to determine the difference in cost-benefit terms between the two regimes. However, there were insufficient cost data available to allow a meaningful quantitative comparison. Therefore, a revised methodology was implemented and qualitative data were collected by means of interviews and analysed to allow a subjective comparison of the two regimes. Recommendations for improvement of the verification process are proposed. (108013)
CIS 08-680 Improved simplified response methods to blast loading. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. vi, 47p. Illus. 4 ref. (In English) Internet: This report describes the extension of a sophisticated single degree of freedom (SDOF) model for steel structures subject to explosion loading. The previous model did not incorporate material strain rate sensitivity, which has considerable influence on the blast response of steel members. This work extends the previous model to deal with the strain-rate effect, and to provide more rational ductility measures than possible with rate-insensitive modelling. The details of the overall model are provided, mainly in the form of parametric tables. Finally, several verification and application examples are provided demonstrating the calculation process involved in applying the new SDOF model and illustrating the high accuracy of the new model. (108156)
CIS 08-681 Safety implications of TOFD for in-manufacture inspections. Goujon N.S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. vi, 63p. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) is an ultrasonic non-destructive testing method which was originally developed as an accurate method for measuring the extent of defects which had been detected by more conventional methods such as Pulse-Echo (PE) ultrasonics. This report describes the results from a project aimed at evaluating the safety implications of the TOFD method, as applied by various EU testing bodies, for weld inspection at the manufacturing stage of pressure vessels. (108154)
CIS 08-682 Poisoning by fire smoke. (French: Intoxication par les fumées d'incendie) Baud F., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2008, No.158, 14p. Illus. 52 ref. (In French) Internet: For a long time, the only recognized fire-related hazard to humans has been cutaneous burns. Since the seventies, data on the thermal degradation of materials and experimental toxicity of gases together with clinical and forensic studies have shown that structural fires involve not only thermal but also chemical risks. Residential fires are an important cause of household death caused by smoke toxicity. Smoke exhibits two types of toxicity: respiratory and systemic. Experimental and clinical studies have shown that toxic gases other than carbon monoxide should also be taken into account when assessing smoke toxicity, including cyanide produced by the thermal degradation of natural as well as synthetic material in well defined conditions of low-oxygen concentration and high temperature that are frequently encountered in structural fires. The medical treatment of fire victims is complex because a number of individuals who have faced only low exposures are mixed with truly intoxicated victims. In addition to supportive treatment, specific toxicological treatment includes high flow of oxygen delivered in normobaric and hyperbaric conditions in case of severe carbon monoxide poisoning. Hydroxocobalamine has been recently evidenced as a safe antidote towards cyanide in this complex clinical setting. Smoke inhalation may not only cause acute, potentially life-threatening diseases, but may also result in chronic, respiratory or neurological, diseases. (108188)
CIS 08-683 Hearing loss among workers exposed to industrial noise. (Spanish: Alteraciones auditivas en trabajadores expuestos al ruido industrial) Hernández Diaz A., González Méndez B.M., Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Sep. 2007, Vol.LIII, No.208, p.9-19. Illus. 38 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This study examined the extent of hearing loss among workers exposed to industrial noise, as well as their exposure to various levels of noise. It involved 98 workers of an aluminium window frame factory in Havana, Cuba. A total of 77 cases (78.5%) of hearing loss attributable to noise were found; 30.6% of workers were exposed to noise levels that were avoidable when considering the nature of their work. Recommendations include reducing workplace noise levels whenever they exceed 85db(A), requiring the use of hearing protectors and implementing medical surveillance by means of annual audiometric tests. (108058)
CIS 08-684 Evaluation of the exposure of electrotherapy care personnel to electromagnetic radiation. (Spanish: Evaluación de la exposición a campos electromagnéticos del personal de electroterapia) Villalba Benavides E., Prevención, Oct.-Dec. 2007, No.182, p.6-19. Illus. 7 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Within the framework of a general evaluation of occupational hazards, an evaluation was undertaken on the exposure to electromagnetic fields among workers providing electrotherapy care. Following a description of electrotherapy equipment and techniques, and of the biological effects of magnetic fields, the evaluation procedure is described. Findings show that workers are exposed to levels of electromagnetic radiation far below threshold limit values. Recommendations are made concerning the surveillance of workers and the protective measures to be implemented. (108205)
CIS 08-685 Exposure to noise on fishing vessels. (Spanish: Exposición al ruido en buques de pesca) Pérez Aznar B., Bernier Herrera F., Abril Muñoz I., Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo, Jan. 2008, No.45, p.12-20. Illus. 4 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Noise levels encountered on fishing vessels may cause not only hearing loss, but also accidents, because they interfere with the proper understanding of orders. The aim of this study was to determine the noise distribution and levels on different types of fishing vessels. The most important noise levels were observed when the engine was running at full power. Noise levels were also found to depend on the workplace and on the age of the vessel, older vessels being better insulated and equipped with improved noise damping. Results of the measurements are presented in tabular form, and measures aimed at limiting the noise exposure of deep-sea fishermen are proposed. (108201)
CIS 08-686 Occupational noise in urban buses. Trombetta Zannin P.H., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Feb. 2008, Vol.38, No.2, p.232-237. Illus. 28 ref. (In English) Internet: The noise level for urban bus drivers in Curitiba (Brazil) was evaluated in three types of buses: bi-articulated, speedy, and feeder. Measurements were made in 20 buses of each type. Bi-articulated buses are formed by three sections and two articulations. They operate in reserved lanes and stop at specific stations. Speedy buses operate in regular streets across the city, but they stop at fewer stations than other buses. Feeder buses operate normally in the whole city and call at all bus stops. The evaluation of noise levels in the workplace of bus drivers was performed according to ISO and Brazilian Standards. In 56 out of the 60 buses examined, the normalized noise exposure levels were below 82dB(A). The overall quality of the workplace was thus considered acceptable. Other findings are discussed. (108139)
CIS 08-687 Evaluation of the potential exposure of female hairdressers to extremely low frequency magnetic fields created by hairdryers. (French: Evaluation de l'exposition potentielle de coiffeuses aux champs magnétiques d'extrême basse fréquence provenant de séchoirs à cheveux) Frenette Y., Barré B., Travail et santé, Sep. 2007, Vol.23, No.3, p.S-15-S18. Illus. 6 ref. (In French) Internet: Hairdressers use handheld hairdryers which generate low-frequency magnetic fields. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential exposure to such fields among women hairdressers working in 33 hairdressing salons in the greater Montreal region, by measuring magnetic field intensity and by determining the number of contacts between the hairdryer and the hairdressers' abdomen per minute of work with a patron. The spectrum of exposure frequencies ranged between 4 and 490μT (average of 180μT) and the average number of contacts per minute between the hairdryer and the hairdressers' abdomen were 1.2 (2.7 for pregnant hairdressers). The dryers were used an average of 4.1 hours during the busiest days. Findings show that several hairdressers were exposed to magnetic fields of intensities higher than those recommended by the ICNIRP. It is recommended that manufacturers reduce the intensity of the magnetic fields emitted by hairdryers. Furthermore, given the risks for the unborn child, pregnant hairdressers should use hairdryers with the lowest possible magnetic field emissions and avoid contact between these appliances and their abdomen. (108088)
CIS 08-688 Whole-body vibration on construction, mining and quarrying machines: Evaluation of emission and estimated exposure levels. Scarlett A.J., Stayner R.M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. x, 163p. Illus. 3 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to quantify whole-body vibration (WBV) emission and likely operator daily exposure levels associated with the normal operation of various types of machines used in the construction, earthmoving, quarrying and mining industries. WBV measurements were made on 16 machines to provide representative samples of WBV time-histories. Vibration frequency analysis and direct observation provided information on the potential for reducing operator WBV exposure in each instance, by appropriate selection and use of suspended seats. It was found that the most important factors in controlling/reducing operator exposure to WBV were adequate information and appropriate training in best practices. Maintenance of haul roads and other operating surfaces can also help to reduce machine WBV levels, but only if vehicle travel speeds are controlled. (108016)
CIS 08-689 Natural ventilation of offshore modules. Sanders C.J., Ivings M.J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. x, 82p. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: Natural ventilation is a common method for mitigating the hazard posed by gas and vapour leaks on offshore platforms. Openings in wind walls and doors allow the wind to blow through a module and hence the ventilation is not generally dependent on the operation of any devices such as mechanical fans. This report investigates the effectiveness of natural ventilation of offshore platforms, focusing on the non-uniformity of the ventilation within a module and its dependence on the wind conditions. (108018)
CIS 08-690 Formal risk identification in professional SCUBA (FRIPS). Tetlow S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. viii, 59p. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: This report describes how fault tree analysis and failure modes and effects criticality analysis (FMECA) can be carried out on operations and hardware typical of a professional SCUBA diving activity. The methodologies are applied to human factors, pre-dive checks and maintenance, training, stress and panic, design and accident investigation. (108157)
CIS 08-691 Nuisance caused by noise at workplaces. (French: Nuisances sonores aux postes de travail; German: Belästigender Lärm am Arbeitsplatz) Staubli B., Suva, Gesundheitsschutz, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, 5th ed., 2006 (German ed.), 2007 (French ed.). 35p. Illus. 32 ref. (In French, German) Internet: This booklet addresses the issue of the nuisance caused by noise in offices, which constitutes more of a discomfort than a risk of hearing damage. Contents: legal aspects (Swiss legislation, European directives including Directive 2003/10/EC (see CIS 06-253), standards); noise perception (how the human auditory system works); discomfort caused by noise; noise nuisance at the place of work; effects of noise (sleep disorders, effects on the vegetative system, social effects, verbal communication problems, poor productivity); coping with noise. An appendix lists acoustic dimensions and measuring units. (108070)
CIS 08-692 Effects of low doses of ionizing radiation. (French: Effets des faibles doses des rayonnements ionisants) Le Guen B., Masse R., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 3rd Quarter 2007, No.156, 13p. 74 ref. (In French) Internet: The carcinogenic nature of ionizing radiation is widely documented. However, its harmful effects on human reproduction have never been proven. Regulations on low-level exposure to ionizing radiation, based on studies of survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, are based on the principle that a residual risk for humans remains whatever the level of exposure. These regulations are. Results are compatible with a linear link between radiation exposure and the excess of solid tumours from exposures of approximately 200mSv. By conducting retrospective epidemiological studies in occupational settings, it is possible to directly estimate the cancer risk among workers exposed to low radiation doses. Although it is currently very convenient for risk management, the assumed linearity of the dose/effect relationship has not been verified for all models. More specifically, with regard to low dose rates delivered by low-LET emitters, this hypothesis has been widely debated in the light of recent observations. Ionizing radiation can alter any of a cell's molecules, but DNA is the most critical biological target owing to the limited redundancy of genetic information it contains. If DNA is altered, some defects in cellular signalling, as well as in DNA repair and cell cycle control, increase the likelihood of cancer and mutations appearing. Phenomena revealed in the past ten years pertaining to variations in low-dose and high-dose radiosensitivity cannot only be explained by variations in the effectiveness of repair or defence systems. Consequently, recent radiobiological data has shown that the body's defence mechanisms against low and high doses are very different. Today, it is known that in the event of radiation exposure, if the initial physical phenomena are indeed proportional to the dose, the nature and effectiveness of the triggered defence mechanisms vary according to dose and dose rate. These findings challenge the validity of high-dose effects extrapolated to low doses. (108227)
CIS 08-693 Manual for first responders to a radiological emergency. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Wagramerstrasse 5, P.O. Box 100, 1400 Wien, Austria, 2006. 86p. Illus. 11 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet provides practical guidance for the persons who are directly involved in responding during the first few hours to a radiological emergency, as well as for the national organizations that provide support to this early response. It includes action guides, instructions and data that can be easily applied by appropriate national organizations to build a basic capability to respond to a radiological emergency. (108245)
CIS 08-694 Risks of scuba diving and working in hyperbaric conditions. (French: Risques de la plongée sous-marine et du travail en milieu hyperbare) Géraut C., Tripodi D., Géraut L., Encyclopédie médico-chirurgicale, Toxicologie-Pathologie professionnelle, 1st Quarter 2008, No.158, 13p. 56 ref. (In French) Internet: The techniques used for scuba diving have evolved recently, with the use of mixtures enriched in oxygen or containing inert gases other than nitrogen. New diseases have emerged, related to an excess of oxygen or increasingly high pressures, as well as to the use of sophisticated devices such as rebreathers or open circuit scuba regulators for which even minor dosage errors can have severe consequences. Diving-related disorders which were underestimated until recently, such as pulmonary oedema, involve various and complex mechanisms. There have been advances in the understanding of mechanisms responsible for gas embolism in recent years, together with the tracking of the circulating gas bubbles, which have contributed to limiting such accidents. The recompression protocols are increasingly strict, the importance of an early detection of decompression events is recognized and recompression chambers need to be entered without delay. Regulation has become strict and the criteria for aptitude have been improved thanks to the shared experience of physicians specialized in hyperbaric pathology. (108190)
CIS 08-695 Safety techniques in manual handling - Are they the only means of manually handling loads without getting injured?. (French: Les techniques sécuritaires de manutention - Est-ce la seule façon de manutentionner des charges sans se blesser?) Denis D., Travail et santé, Dec. 2007, Vol.23, No.4, p.18-22. Illus. 19 ref. (In French) Internet: Topics addressed in this article on "tools" for safe manual handling work: new techniques of using one's body for safe manual handling work; using the weight of one's own body; taking advantage of the weight of loads and their position; adopting continuous movements; training of personnel. (108180)
CIS 08-696 EUROSHNET: New public discussion forums on personal protective equipment and machinery protection. (German: EUROSHNET: neue öffentliche Diskussionsforen zu Maschinen und Persönlichen Schutzausrüstungen) Reitz R., Die BG, Oct. 2007, No.10, p.399-400. Illus. 1 ref. (In German) Internet: The European network for occupational safety and health experts EUROSHNET (http://www.euroshnet.org/) launched public forums on its website in June 2007 on three current topics: impact of the amendments to the Machinery Directive (CIS 89-1442), machinery safety and the safety and comfort of personal protective equipment. These forums are open to all. Furthermore, a restricted access section is reserved for OSH professionals. EUROSHNET thus offers a user-friendly way of participating in technical discussions at a European level. (108102)
CIS 08-697 Personal protective equipment offering projection against cuts and piercing injuries. (German: Persönliche Schutzausrüstungen: hieb- und stichfest) Donner C., Arbeit und Gesundheit, 2007, No.11, p.10. Illus. (In German) Internet: Working with knives or sharp objects (glass, sheet metal, etc.) presents a risk of injuries to the hands and arms. In the food industry in particular, 30 to 40% of all reported accidents are due to the handling of knives, of which 90% concern the hand-arm system. Metal chain mesh protective equipment exist that offer suitable hand and arm protection. They exist in the form of gloves, gauntlets and arm protectors that can reach up to the shoulder, and even as long-sleeved vests. It is recommended that gloves be worn to test their comfort and not to depend on the sizes specified by the supplier. For work requiring arms to be raised, the sleeves must be fixed so as not to slide down, in order to ensure an unfailing protection of the hands and arms. (108110)
CIS 08-698 Lifelines. (Spanish: Líneas de vida) Martínez V., Mapfre seguridad, 4th Quarter 2007, Vol.27, No.108, p.6-22. Illus. (In Spanish) Internet: Working at height involves the risk of falling and requires the adoption of various types of protective systems, such as lifelines. This article describes the characteristics of lifelines, together with the criteria to be considered when designing or selecting this type of equipment. It also explains the correct installation, use and maintenance of these systems. (108209)
CIS 08-699 Fatal falls overboard on commercial fishing vessels in Alaska. Lucas D.L., Lincoln J.M., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007, Vol.50, p.962-968. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Falls overboard are a major contributor to commercial fishing fatalities in Alaska. This article describes the problem of falls overboard and discusses possible ways to reduce the risk factors. Data from the Alaska Occupational Injury Surveillance System on fatal falls overboard in the commercial fishing sector in Alaska between 1990 and 2005 were used; 71 such accidents were identified. An in-depth descriptive analysis of these fatalities was then performed to identify areas for intervention. Falls overboard did not decline significantly during those years. The most common circumstances associated with falling overboard were working with fishing gear, being alone on deck, losing balance or slipping, heavy weather, gear entanglement and alcohol. (108036)
CIS 08-700 ANSI/ASSE Z359-2007: Better fall protection. Suits M., Occupational Hazards, Oct. 2007, p.51-58. Illus. (In English) Internet: According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, falls remain the first cause of fatal accidents in the construction industry and the second cause of fatal accidents in all industries taken together. This article comments a set of five new standards, ANSI/ASSE Z359-2007 Fall Arrest Code, which came into effect in October 2007. They address the elements of a managed fall protection programme and provide the guidelines to design or strengthen existing programmes. The standards were developed by a committee that included engineers, end users, military personnel, representatives from OSHA and ANSI, trainers, fall protection equipment manufacturers, fall protection specialists, rescue experts and academics. (108027)
CIS 08-701 The underlying causes of falls from vehicles associated with slip and trip hazards on steps and floors. Scott A., Miller M., Hallas K., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. x, 73p. Illus. 27 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this project was to establish the underlying reasons for slip, trip and fall accidents to professional drivers. Work involved examining and measuring various types of vehicles, measuring the slipperiness of a variety of surfaces, interviewing drivers and managers, and conducting focus group sessions to confirm the interview findings and consider how falls from vehicles can be reduced. Contents: background; methodology; results and discussion (large goods vehicles, vans, forklift trucks); wider influences affecting driver behaviour; footwear; conclusions and recommendations. Appendices include measurements and test data, slipperiness assessment test methods, interview and focus group schedules, and the HSE approach to the assessment of slip risk. (108158)
CIS 08-702 The properties of extreme waves. Venugopal V., Wolfram J., Linfoot B.T., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. viii, 80p. Illus. 62 ref. (In English) Internet: In the safety assessment of both fixed and floating offshore structures, it is necessary to ensure that the structure has sufficient strength to withstand the most extreme combination of environmental loads likely to be experienced during the design life. However significant uncertainties remain concerning the characteristics of real, extreme, three-dimensional waves. The research described in this report focused upon wave crest heights and the potential loss of air gap for fixed structures by examining the distribution of wave crest elevations in storms, together with the directional spreading of wave energy by examining the wave spreading factor. (108017)
CIS 08-703 Seatbelt performance in quarry vehicle incidents - Final report. Smith T., Couper G., Donaldson W., Neale M., Caroll J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. vi, 141p. Illus. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: The most frequent type of accident in quarries is those involving vehicles, accounting for approximately 40% of all accidents. Various industry standards have been implemented in the United Kingdom, including those applying to all-round visibility from vehicles, edge protection and brake testing, in order to reduce the number of casualties. The effectiveness of restraint systems is considered as the next step to achieving further safety improvements. In this study, current standards and practices of several countries were firstly reviewed. Next, a range of accident conditions were simulated using human body numerical models that were evaluated against data from full scale tests. Findings are discussed. Restraint of the torso was shown to provide additional benefits over the current lap belts. (108022)
CIS 08-704 Axial fatigue tests on wire rope slings used for offshore containers. McCann P., Smith D.T., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. vi, 13p. Illus. 7 ref. (In English) Internet: The offshore industry uses a variety of containers for the transportation of equipment. These containers are permanently fitted with their own lifting attachments, which are subjected to repeated dynamic loading in a hostile corrosive environment. In the United Kingdom, five-legged wire rope sling sets are used, while in other countries, chain attachments are prevalent. The Health and Safety Laboratory measured the dynamic loads on steel wire ropes resulting from various lifting operations between a semi-submersible installation and a supply vessel. Measurements were deliberately taken in heavy seas to identify the worst loading conditions which could occur. Findings are discussed. (108155)
CIS 08-705 Floating production system: JIP FPS mooring integrity. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. 281p. Illus. 74 ref. (In English) Internet: The main objective of this project was to improve the integrity of the mooring systems on floating production platforms, by helping persons who live and work on these structures to become more involved in the vital task of their surveillance and maintenance. The feedback provided on the actual performance of mooring systems should assist designers and manufacturers to improve mooring system designs. The report identifies gaps in existing knowledge of mooring behaviour and components which will orient future research. (108163)
CIS 08-706 Fast rescue craft recovery by installation crane: Phase 2 study. Block M., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. viii, 15p. (In English) Internet: This project is a continuation of a previous study which reviewed the possibility of using existing offshore pedestal type cranes for the launch and recovery of fast rescue craft. The earlier study concentrated mainly on the environmental and operational problems associated with launch and recovery of the craft. One concept studied was the permanent stationing of a fast rescue craft on a fixed offshore installation that could be launched and recovered by the platform cranes for emergency rescue and other forms of installation support. The present study focuses in more detail on the issue of the suitability of existing pedestal cranes on fixed installations to safely launch and recover fast rescue craft. (108166)
CIS 08-707 Operator roll-over protection on small vehicles. Scarlett A.J., Reed J.N., Semple D.A., Seward P.C., Stockton A.D., Price J.S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. viii, 73p. Illus. 13 ref. (In English) Internet: This study was conducted to investigate issues surrounding the mounting of Roll-Over Protective Structures (ROPS) to small vehicles in the 300-600kg mass range primarily used in amenity, turf care and estate maintenance applications. Of particular interest was the potentially detrimental effect of ROPS installation upon small vehicle lateral stability, and the suitability of ROPS performance test criteria for application to small vehicles. Work involved computer-based dynamic simulation modelling, validated by practical roll-over trials. Roll-over behaviour was investigated, with particular respect to the onset of vehicle lateral instability and energy levels likely to be absorbed by the vehicle ROPS during the overturn event. Findings are discussed. It is concluded that appropriately-engineered conventional ROPS are suitable for application to small vehicles. (108153)
CIS 08-708 Safety helmets - Selection and use. (French: Les casques de protection - Choix et utilisation) Mayer A., Le Brech A., Pichon P., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, July 2007. 23p. Illus. 33 ref. Price: EUR 4.20. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1549-8 (In French) Internet: This guide is aimed at all persons involved in selecting safety helmets and making them available in plants, workshops or on construction sites. It applies to all work situations where it is necessary to have recourse to personal protective equipment, namely whenever collective protection measures are not possible or are insufficient. It provides information on the characteristics and scope of use of safety helmets, and proposes an approach for their selection, purchase, use and care. (108076)
CIS 08-709 New technology for ground control in multiple-seam mining. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Nov. 2007. 2p. Illus. 3 ref. (In English) Internet: In some coalfields of the United States, many mines are operating above and/or beneath previously mined seams. These operations can cause roof falls and other accidents that can threaten the safety of miners. This information sheet describes research undertaken by NIOSH on multiple-seam mining and summarizes the contents of two publications: a first document consists of a compendium of a variety of papers on recent knowledge about the safety of multiple-seam mining; the second report presents a software package which is a simple user-friendly computer program to help mine planners. (108114)
CIS 08-710 Platforms for working at low heights. (French: Plates-formes de travail pour travaux de faible hauteur) Laine P., Pamies A., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed., Nov. 2007. 4p. Illus. 14 ref. Index. Price: EUR 0.50. Downloadable version free of charge. (In French) Internet: Falls from a low height remain numerous (in the building sector, 20 % of fatal falls are from ladders), which shows how necessary it is to foresee appropriate work platforms instead of the makeshift means still too often encountered. This data sheet reviews the existing regulations and standards, and gives practical instructions for choosing different equipment: light individual mobile platforms, individual mobile platforms, mobile access and working towers, scaffolds. Prevention measures are recalled. (108221)
CIS 08-711 Use of blunt-tip suture needles to decrease percutaneous injuries to surgical personnel. Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2001, USA, Oct. 2007. 4p. Illus. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: The objectives of this information bulletin are to describe the hazard of sharp-tip suture needles as a source of percutaneous injuries to surgical personnel. It also presents evidence of the effectiveness of blunt-tip suture needles in decreasing percutaneous injuries to surgical personnel, particularly when used to suture muscle and fascia. Finally, it emphasizes OSHA's requirement and NIOSH's recommendation to use safer medical devices such as blunt-tip suture needles where clinically appropriate. (108119)
CIS 08-712 The lingering threat of avian flu. Bennett B., Occupational Hazards, Jan. 2008, p.50-54. Illus. (In English) Internet: Although headlines warning of a pandemic of avian flu have started to wane, the threat is far from over. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a global outbreak of easily transmissible influenza such as the H5N1 virus avian flu is likely within a few years. Workers at risk include poultry farmers, health care and laboratory workers, veterinarians, waste disposal workers, persons in contact with animals and food, and persons working outdoors. Individuals can protect themselves in a number of ways, such as frequently washing their hands with soap and water. OSHA recommends that employers provide at-risk workers with the appropriate PPE, including gloves, apparel (aprons and sleeves), goggles and boots or protective shoe covers that can be disposed of or disinfected. (108149)
CIS 08-713 Bartonellosis (Oroya fever or Verruga Peruana) - An occupational disease?. (Spanish: Bartonelosis (fiebre de la Oroya o Verruga Peruana) ¿Enfermedad ocupacional?) César Gonzáles R., Ciro Maguiña V., Felipe Heras M., Luis Conde-Salazar G., Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Dec. 2007, Vol.LIII, No.209, p.35-41. Illus. 14 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: Bartonellosis (also known as Oroya fever, Verruga Peruana or Carrion's disease) is an endemic disease in South America caused by the Bartonella bacilliformis bacterium and propagated by the Lutzomyia verrucarum mosquito. This infection constitutes a public health problem in rural areas, with epidemics having occurred in mountainous regions of Peru, Ecuador and Colombia. This article reviews current epidemiological and clinical understanding of the disease and highlights the fact that workers travelling in the endemic areas are particularly at risk, which is why the occupational nature of this disease should be recognized. (108203)
CIS 08-714 Exposure-response relationship between endotoxin exposure and lung function impairment in cotton textile workers. Oldenburg M., Latza U., Baur X., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2007, Vol.80, No.5, p.388-395. Illus. 37 ref. (In English) Internet: In this cross-sectional study, 150 employees of a German cotton spinning mill underwent lung function testing. Furthermore, in a random subset of 75 of these workers, cross-shift lung function test and methacholine challenges were performed. Airborne current endotoxin exposure was classified as "low", "medium", and "high" (≤100, >100-≤450, >450EU/m3, respectively). The exposure-response relationship between endotoxin exposure and the prevalence of an obstructive ventilation was significant; the adjusted odds ratio for high endotoxin exposure was 11.22. FEV1/FVC% was significantly reduced after the shift but not related to endotoxin exposure. Twelve workers showed bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The findings suggest a relationship between endotoxin exposure and lung function impairment, with significant effects above 450 EU/m3. (108256)
CIS 08-715 Occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to molds in an onion and potato sorter. Merget R., Sander I., Rozynek P., Raulf-Heimsoth M., Bruening T., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2008, Vol.51, No.2, p.117-119. 8 ref. (In English) Internet: A 42-year-old female non-smoking onion and potato sorter developed work-related shortness of breath, cough, fatigue and flu-like symptoms. The diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis was based on patchy infiltrates in both lungs on high resolution computed tomography and lymphocytosis of 71% in a bronchoalveolar lavage sample. Exposure cessation and a brief corticosteroid therapy resulted in complete recovery. IgG antibodies to several kinds of mould cultivated from samples from the patient's workplace were detected in the patient's serum. It is concluded that occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to moulds may develop in onion and potato sorters. (108133)
CIS 08-716 Sharps injuries in UK health care: A review of injury rates, viral transmission and potential efficacy of safety devices. Elder A., Paterson C., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 2006, Vol.56, No.8, p.566-574. 83 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this literature survey was to review data on sharps injuries and occupational blood-borne virus transmission in health care services in the United Kingdom. Findings are discussed. Although injuries remain common, confirmed viral transmission in the United Kingdom has been relatively rare. The degree of under-reporting of sharps injuries may be as much as 10-fold. Safety-engineered devices such as blunt suture needles and safety cannulae were found to be effective in reducing injury rates. (108215)
CIS 08-717 Ornithosis-psittacosis (Chlamydophila psittaci). (French: Ornithose-psittacose (Chlamydophila psittaci)) Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2007. 6p. Illus. Price: EUR 1.50. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 2-7389-0836-5 (In French) Internet: Ornithosis or psittacosis is an infection caused by a bacterium transmitted by infected birds or their contaminated environment. The disease often remains unnoticed but its effect on humans can be serious. Contents of this leaflet: information on the bacterium (Chlamydophila psittaci); description of the disease; occupations and populations at risk; safety, health and protective measures to be implemented. (108198)
CIS 08-718 Relationship between cumulative spinal load due to materials handling and intervertebral disc hernia - Results of the German spine study. (German: Zusammenhang zwischen der kumulativen Wirbelsäulenbelastung durch Lastenhandhabungen und lumbalen Prolapserkrankungen - Ergebnisse der Deutschen Wirbelsäulenstudie) Seidler A., Bergmann A., Ditchen D., Ellegast R., Elsner G., Grifka J., Haerting J., Hofmann F., Jäger M., Linhardt O., Luttmann A., Michaelis M., Petereit-Haack G., Bolm-Audorff U., Zentralblatt für Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie, Oct. 2007, Vol.57, No.10, p.290-303. 19 ref. (In German) Internet: The aim of this case-control study carried out within the framework of a multi-centric study on occupational spinal column disorders in Germany was to examine the dose-response relationship between spinal load and the diagnosis of lumbar prolapse. It involved 286 men and 278 women with intervertebral disc hernia, together with a control group of 453 men and 448 women. Data on their occupational history were collected during computer-assisted structured interviews, while that concerning their spinal loads were obtained through observations of manual handling tasks rated by experts. The cumulative spinal load was estimated with the help of 10 dose models. After correcting for various factors such as age and psychosocial stress or stress due to job loss, regression analysis revealed a statistically-significant relationship between cumulative spinal load due to manual handling or work posture involving flexion of the torso, and lumbar prolapse, for both men and women. Among women, the dose-response relationship was monotonous, while among men, an increased risk was observed with an increase in cumulative spinal load, however with a decreased risk in the normal exposure category, which could be due to a healthy worker effect. See also CIS 08-719/721. (108103)
CIS 08-719 Relationship between manual materials handling and lumbar chondrosis - Results of the German spine study. (German: Zusammenhang zwischen manueller Lastenhandhabung und lumbaler Chondrose - Ergebnisse der Deutschen Wirbelsäulenstudie) Bolm-Audorff U., Bergmann A., Ditchen D., Ellegast R., Elsner G., Grifka J., Haerting J., Hofmann F., Jäger M., Linhardt O., Luttmann A., Michaelis M., Petereit-Haack G., Seidler A., Zentralblatt für Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie, Oct. 2007, Vol.57, No.10, p.304-316. 24 ref. (In German) Internet: The aim of this case-control study carried out within the framework of a multi-centric study on occupational spinal column disorders in Germany was to examine the dose-response relationship between spinal loads due to manual handling and flexed torso, and lumbar chondrosis. It involved 351 cases of lumbar chondrosis with intervertebral disc narrowing, together with 901 controls. Loads were estimated with the help of 10 dose models. Findings show a statistically-significant relationship between cumulative spinal load due to manual handling or work posture involving flexion of the torso, and lumbar chondrosis, for both men and women. In the highest dose category, there was a significant increase in odds ratios of lumbar chondrosis (3.6 for men and 1.9 for women). See also CIS 08-718 and 08-720/721. (108104)
CIS 08-720 Relationship between occupational exposure to whole-body vibration and disc-related diseases of the lumbar spine - Evaluations within the German spine study. (German: Zusammenhang zwischen beruflicher Exposition durch Ganzkörpervibration und bandscheibenbedingten Erkrankungen der Lendenwirbelsäule - Auswertungen innerhalb der Deutschen Wirbelsäulenstudie) Bergmann A., Seidler A., Schumann B., Fischer S., Bolm-Audorff U., Ditchen D., Ellegast R., Elsner G., Grifka J., Hinz B., Hofmann F., Jäger M., Linhardt O., Luttmann A., Michaelis M., Petereit-Haack G., Haerting J., Zentralblatt für Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie, Oct. 2007, Vol.57, No.10, p.317-327. 28 ref. (In German) Internet: The aim of this case-control study carried out within the framework of a multi-centric study on occupational spinal column disorders in Germany was to examine the relationship between exposure to whole-body vibration and disc-related lumbar disorders. 65 of the 564 cases with intervertebral disc hernia, 39 of the 351 cases with advanced lumbar chondrosis and 73 of the 901 selected controls were occupationally exposed to vibrations. Since the number of women was too low to allow a statistically-significant evaluation, the study was restricted to men. No relationship was found between lifelong cumulative exposure to whole-body vibrations and lumbar prolapse. However, an increasing statistically non-significant monotonous relationship was observed between the total dose of whole-body vibrations and chondrosis. See also CIS 08-718/719 and 08-721. (108105)
CIS 08-721 Relationship between occupational psychosocial strain and disc-related diseases of the lumbar spine - Results of the German spine study. (German: Zusammenhang zwischen beruflichen psychosozialen Belastungen und bandscheibenbedingten Erkrankungen der Lendenwirbelsäule - Ergebnisse der Deutschen Wirbelsäulenstudie) Petereit-Haack G., Bolm-Audorff U., Ditchen D., Ellegast R., Elsner G., Grifka J., Haerting J., Hofmann F., Jäger M., Linhardt O., Luttmann A., Michaelis M., Schumann B., Seidler A., Zentralblatt für Arbeitsmedizin, Arbeitsschutz und Ergonomie, Oct. 2007, Vol.57, No.10, p.328-336. 25 ref. (In German) Internet: The aim of this case-control study carried out within the framework of a multi-centric study on occupational spinal column disorders in Germany was to examine the relationship between psychosocial strain at work and lumbar prolapse and chondrosis. Data on psychosocial strain were collected during computer-assisted structured interviews, while that concerning their spinal loads were obtained through biomechanical simulations using ten dose models. Findings show a relationship between psychosocial strain at work and the development of a lumbar prolapse or a chondrosis, both in men and women. Among women, the relationship with lumbar chondrosis was statistically significant. See also CIS 08-718/720. (108106)
CIS 08-722 Protein-energy supplements to preserve nutritional status of sugar cane cutters. Chiarello P., Scatena Sobrinho P., Campanelli Marçal Vieira M.N., Diez Garcia R.W., Occupational Medicine, Dec. 2006, Vol.56, No.8, p.575-577. 9 ref. (In English) Internet: Sugar cane cutters in south-eastern Brazil are temporarily hired for the harvest period of eight months. They often have minimal benefits and may not receive adequate nutrition. The aim of this study was to evaluate alterations in weight and body composition of sugar cane cutters during harvest with the use of protein-energy and electrolyte supplements. Three products were used daily: a milk drink, a seasoned manioc meal mixture and an electrolyte replacement fluid, adding approx. 400kcal and 28.5g of protein/day. There were small reductions in body mass index and percentage body fat with maintenance of lean mass. There was a significant improvement in hydration status, serum albumin and cholesterol. There were no medical absences related to dehydration. These supplements may have a useful role to play in reducing lean mass losses and maintaining nutritional and hydration status of these workers. (108216)
CIS 08-723 Physical workload of flight attendants when pushing and pulling trolleys aboard aircraft. Glitsch U., Ottersbach H.J., Ellegast R., Schaub K., Franz G., Jäger M., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, 2007, Vol.37, p.845-854. Illus. 22 ref. (In English) Internet: Musculoskeletal loads from moving trolleys aboard aircraft were assessed by observations of trolley handling on aircraft and in a laboratory set up. Trolley handling by 15 female flight attendants was observed on 10 short- and medium-distance flights. Furthermore, 25 selected flight attendants (22 women; three men) from five German airlines took part in the laboratory study, which comprised three-dimensional measurements of posture and hand forces during pushing and pulling of trolleys in a variety of configurations. From the on-flight observations performed, between 150 and 250 trolley movements can be projected for a work shift. The greatest physical workload is to be expected at the beginning of service, when the trolleys are fully laden then and the cabin floor can be inclined up to 8°, as the aircraft is still climbing. In addition, the forces depend significantly on the trolley type, mode of handling and personal dexterity. Other findings are discussed. (108029)
CIS 08-724 The pink biscuits of Reims - Rationalizing the production equipment. (French: Biscuits roses de Reims - Rationaliser l'outil de production) Brasseur G., Travail et sécurité, Dec. 2007, No.679, p.2-9. Illus. 1 ref. (In French) Internet: This article describes the modifications made to the production line of a biscuit manufacturer in the region of Reims, France. The new line was designed by an architect specialized in the food industry, with a view of rationalizing production while at the same time ensuring the ergonomics and comfort of the employees. The female operators assigned to packaging were reassigned to various operations in order to avoid monotonous work. Other changes involved equipment safety. Nonetheless, the workers had to receive the support of an occupational psychologist for easing the difficulties related to the changes in the work environment. (108089)
CIS 08-725 Upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders among a cohort of women employed in poultry processing. Lipscomb H., Kucera K., Epling C., Dement J., American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2008, Vol.51, No.2, p.24-36. 41 ref. (In English) Internet: This study evaluated musculoskeletal problems among women employed in poultry processing in North Carolina. Data on symptoms and exposure to risk factors were collected from a cross-sectional sample of 291 women through interviews and physical examinations conducted at 6-month intervals over three years. Variables studied included cumulative exposure, work organization factors, other medical conditions, depressive symptoms, children in the home and hand-intensive home activities. Poisson regression was used to evaluate factors associated with occurrences of upper extremity symptoms and incidence of disorders at follow-up. Findings are discussed. (108136)
CIS 08-726 Musculoskeletal risk factors in cleaning occupation - A literature review. Kumar R., Kumar S., International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Feb. 2008, Vol.38, No.2, p.158-170. Illus. Approx. 100 ref. (In English) Internet: The objective of this literature survey on risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among cleaners was to identify recommended practices, problems, and unresolved issues. The most frequently-cited factors were found to be the high physical and psychosocial workloads. Recommended ergonomic interventions are summarized in a model to present a systematic overview, useful for research and practical applications. (108140)
CIS 08-727 Checkouts with style. (German: Kassen mit Klasse) Becker M., Arbeit und Gesundheit, 2007, No.12, p.6-8. Illus. 4 ref. (In German) Internet: In the retail sector, the space available for cashiers to carry out various tasks is limited. The effect of the introduction of bar-code scanners and conveyor belts was to accelerate the flow of products and to increase the monotony of the job. To improve working conditions, experts from the German retail trade association conducted an ergonomic analysis of these workplaces and advised retailers on layouts as a function of the size and type of products, as well as of the other tasks carried out by the cashiers. The experts devised a system aimed at analysing cashiers' work postures, taking into account the moving area, workstation height, grip distance, leg and foot room, and angle of vision. Optimum and maximum dimensions were defined for the work area. It is recommended to allow employees to alternate between sitting and standing work postures. (108108)
CIS 08-728 The development of a fatigue/risk index for shiftworkers. Spencer M.B., Robertson K.A., Folkard S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. viii, 71p. Illus. Bibl.ref. (In English) Internet: This report describes the work carried out to update the HSE Fatigue Index, incorporating recent information relating to a variety of issues including cumulative fatigue, time of day, shift length, the effect of breaks and the recovery from a sequence of shifts. In addition, a literature review was carried out of trends in risk related to shift work. This has enabled the definition of two separate indices, one related to fatigue and the other to risk. While the two indices are similar in many respects, they show different trends with respect to time of day. (108165)
CIS 08-729 Prevention of risks due to static work postures. (French: Prévention des risques liés aux positions de travail statiques) Pomian J.L., Grosmann J.L., Chabrier R., Lemperiere M., L'huillier J.C., Franckhauser Y., Zana J.P., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Jan. 2008. 6p. Illus. 12 ref. Price: EUR 1.00. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1610-5 (In French) Internet: Even though close to a quarter of all employees complain about working while standing, prolonged sitting postures can also lead to musculoskeletal diseases to the upper extremities and the back, as well as circulatory disorders. This leaflet proposes leads for the prevention of risks from static work postures. It describes various types of existing seats, together with their scope of application. (108187)
CIS 08-730 Patients with psychotic disorders at work: Diagnosis and treatment. (Spanish: El paciente que padece un trastorno psicótico en el trabajo: diagnóstico y tratamiento) Mingote Adán J.C., del Pino Cuadrado P., Huidobro Á., Gutiérrez García D., de Miguel Peciña I., Gálvez Herrer M., Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Sep. 2007, Vol.LIII, No.208, p.29-51. Illus. 27 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article covers psychotic disorders and the conditions allowing affected workers to continue working. Contents: general aspects of psychotic delirium; costs of serious mental disorders; schizophrenia (characteristics, clinical evolution, compatibility of the disease with continued employment, behaviour to adopt with such patients and interventions during crises); paranoia or persisting delirium (characteristics, behaviour to adopt with such patients ); factors to take into account for the possible reintegration in their jobs of workers with psychotic disorders; brief psychotic episodes and work capacity. (108059)
CIS 08-731 Psychotropic drugs and work (II) - Antidepressants. (French: Médicaments psychotropes et travail (II) - Médicaments antidépresseurs) Durand E., Documents pour le médecin du travail, 4th Quarter 2007, No.112, p.487-508. Illus. 96 ref. (In French) Internet: This literature survey addresses the use of antidepressants at work. The most recent publications on the topic cite a prevalence of depression of around 10% in the general population and a similar level in the working population. The consequences of antidepressants on work are little known. This article sheds light on current understanding with respect to vigilance, driving and co-exposure to toxic substances, and proposes several decision support tools aimed at occupational physicians. The ethical and practical aspects of medical treatment of employees are discussed, together with the issues of staying at work and returning to work. (108181)
CIS 08-732 Burnout and effort-reward imbalance in a sample of 949 German teachers. Unterbrink T., Hack A., Pfeifer R., Buhl-Grießhaber V., Müller U., Wesche H., Frommhold M., Scheuch K., Seibt R., Wirsching M., Bauer J., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2007, Vol.80, No.5, p.433-441. 42 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to explore teacher burnout and the relationship between their efforts and their rewards. A sample of 949 German teachers in 10 high schools and 79 middle schools was investigated applying the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI-D) and the Effort Reward Imbalance Inventory (ERI). Compared with studies investigating burnout in other occupations, high rates of symptoms such as emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and low personal accomplishment were found. Male teachers showed significantly lower personal accomplishment and more depersonalization than female teachers. Other findings are discussed. (108259)
CIS 08-733 Working conditions, adverse events and mental health problems in a sample of 949 German teachers. Bauer J., Unterbrink T., Hack A., Pfeifer R., Buhl-Grießhaber V., Müller U., Wesche H., Frommhold M., Seibt R., Scheuch K., Wirsching M., International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Apr. 2007, Vol.80, No.5, p.442-449. 37 ref. (In English) Internet: The aim of this study was to explore the workload of teachers, to analyse the extent of negative or threatening school-related events teachers are confronted with and to evaluate mental health strain. A sample of 949 German teachers in 10 high schools and 79 middle schools was investigated applying a questionnaire covering different aspects of the occupational burden and threatening events, and the general health questionnaire (GHQ-12). More than 42% had faced verbal insults, almost 7% deliberate damage to personal property and 4.4% threats of violence by pupils during the past 12 months. When applying the GHQ-12, 29.8% reported significant mental health problems. Teachers in middle schools indicated more of such problems than those of high schools. Other findings are discussed. (108260)
CIS 08-734 Work hours and well-being: The roles of work-time control and work-family interference. Hughes E.L., Parkes K.R., Work and Stress, July-Sep. 2007, Vol.21, No.3, p.264-278. Illus. 49 ref. (In English) Internet: This study examined the relationship between work hours and well-being. Questionnaire data from 292 female employees in two United Kingdom public sector organizations were analysed. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that, after controlling for demographic variables, neuroticism and job demands, work-family interference mediated the effect of work hours on family satisfaction. It was also found that work-time control moderated the relationship between work hours and work-family interference. These findings show that longer work hours are not necessarily associated with higher work-family interference, and hence with poor recovery and impaired well-being. Instead, having a degree of control over work hours moderates the first causal link in this process. Thus, the provision by employers of some flexibility and control over work hours may help to reduce the potential negative impact of long work hours on employees. (108031)
CIS 08-735 Harassment at work: Help from hazard evaluation. (French: Harcèlement au travail: l'appui de l'analyse des risques) Prevent Focus, Sep. 2007. p.16-19. Illus. 4 ref. (In French) Internet: Belgian legislation on violence and sexual harassment at the place of work has been amended recently, in particular for taking into account the psychosocial effects of bullying and harassment. It thus places the emphasis on primary prevention, based on hazard evaluation and the screening for undue behaviour in order to avoid the need for legal proceedings. A well-conducted hazard evaluation is therefore essential for effective prevention. Prevent has consequently designed a training programme for assisting Belgian enterprises in carrying out a psychological stress hazard evaluation. (108087)
CIS 08-736 "Your stress manager" - An interactive medium for better handling of personal stress. (German: "Ihr Stressmanager" - Ein interactives Medium zum besseren Umgang mit persönlichem Stress) Behrendt S.U., Kompass, Sep.-Oct. 2007, Vol.117, No.9/10, p.4-9. Illus. (In German) Internet: Within the European Union, 28% of workers claim to suffer from stress-related health problems and a United Kingdom study has shown that 54% of absenteeism is due to stress-related impairment. This article describes an interactive DVD on stress management aimed at enterprises, which can be used on a single PC or installed for multi-user access through the enterprise Intranet. It consists of several modules: definition of stress; stress inventory; relaxation techniques; problem-solving methods; time management; hobbies, pleasurable pastimes, sports and nutrition; stress management objectives and action plan; quality control; addresses and contacts. This concept aims to achieve stress prevention by acting at three levels: primary (preserving mental health); secondary (early recognition of problems and effective intervention); tertiary (improving health and well-being after an illness or rehabilitation measures). (108107)
CIS 08-737 Assessing the cumulative effects of stress: The association between job stress and allostatic load in a large sample of Chinese employees. Sun J., Wang S., Zhang J.Q., Li W., Work and Stress, Oct.-Dec. 2007, Vol.21, No.4, p.333-347. Illus. 53 ref. (In English) Internet: Allostatic load (AL) is an index that is derived from a set of biological measures for assessing chronic stress. In this study, a 13-parameter index was used to examine the relationship between job strain and AL. Participants were 1219 healthy Chinese employees. Job strain was measured using the Job Content Questionnaire, and AL was assessed by various stress responses, including blood pressure, cholesterol, indicators of glucose metabolism, and hormone and inflammation markers. AL in the high job strain group differed sharply from that in the low job strain group. AL was positively associated with age and educational level. Analyses indicated that decision latitude and job demands were significantly related to AL. Other findings are discussed. (108144)
CIS 08-738 Evaluating organizational-level work stress interventions: Beyond traditional methods. Cox T., Karanika M., Griffiths A., Houdmont J., Work and Stress, Oct.-Dec. 2007, Vol.21, No.4, p.348-362. 60 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey considers some of the philosophical and methodological issues in relation to enterprise-level interventions for work-related stress. Starting from the complex and continually changing realities of work organization, the authors argue in favour of a more broadly conceived framework for evaluation that acknowledges the limitations of traditional approaches. The study concludes by offering an outline framework for this broader approach to the evaluation of interventions. (108145)
CIS 08-739 The APEA model, a psychosocial intervention protocol. Beyond the psychosocial evaluation. (Spanish: El modelo AEPA protocolo para la intervención psicosocial. Más allá de la evaluación psicosocial) Carrión García M.A., López Barón F., Tous Pallarès J., Seguridad y Salud en el Trabajo, Jan. 2008, No.45, p.22-30. Illus. 28 ref. (In Spanish) Internet: This article presents the "APEA" model of psychosocial intervention aimed at improving safety, health and the quality of life in the social work environment. It also describes an 8-step protocol for interventions within the enterprise: existing state of demand within the enterprise; collection and evaluation of data; action plan; corrections and changes to be implemented; selection of interventions (at the mega, macro and/or micro levels); implementation of the interventions; evaluation, follow-up and control of the results of the interventions; evaluation and follow-up aimed at introducing improvements. (108202)
CIS 08-740 Research into the behavioural aspects of slips and trip accidents and incidents - Part 1: Literature review. Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. 40p. Illus. 64 ref. (In English) Internet: This literature survey on slips, trips and falls together with the behavioural aspects that contribute to these accidents occurring both in the workplace and in public areas was conducted using Internet-based search engines and information repositories. It did not uncover any specific research into this field but it did identify many publications that were relevant to the drivers and influencers of behaviour. The literature review also highlighted factors that have not been explored with explicit reference to slips, trips and falls but that may point towards areas for future research. (108012)
CIS 08-741 Review of key human factors involved in workplace transport accidents. Harley R., Cheyne A., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2005. x, 45p. 86 ref. (In English) Internet: Workplace transport is the second most important cause of accidents in the workplace. Although there have been some successes in identifying the main types of workplace transport accidents, the people involved and types of injuries that result, little appears to be known about the influence of a range of human factors on these accidents. Literature on individual differences, personality, stress, fatigue, demands, training, competencies and selection, together with safety culture and management processes was examined in the context of workplace transport. Findings suggest that human factors issues are likely to influence workplace transport accidents on a number of levels. Various recommendations are made to enable research to be targeted and practice to be improved. (108014)
CIS 08-742 Violence and aggression management training for trainers and managers. Zarola A., Leather P., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. xii, 83p. Illus. 2 ref. (In English) Internet: Workplace violence management training programmes in the health care sector constitutes a central part of the strategy for combating work-related violence and aggression. The objective of this research was to directly assess the usefulness of violence management training. The report includes various evaluation tools, cases studies and guidance documents in the field of violence management training. Based on the conclusions of this report, a second document gives guidance on good practice in the content and delivery of such training. (108161)
CIS 08-743 Managing stress and conflict in libraries. Pantry S., Facet Publishing, 7 Ridgemount Street, London WC1E 7AE, United Kingdom, 2007. vii, 140p. 129 ref. Index. Price: GBP 29.95., ISBN 978-1-85604-613-8 (In English) Internet: Tackling conflict and stress effectively is a legal responsibility for management. This book defines what constitutes a healthy and safe library working environment. It describes the reporting procedures leading to conflict resolution, enabling both the employee and the manager to decide whether or not there is a case for making a risk assessment that may lead to formal mediation. Topics addressed: current safety and health concerns; risk assessment procedure; the business case; taking action to solve interpersonal conflict; communication skills and training; support to be expected from the organization. Also included are case studies, a glossary of health and safety terms, and sources of further information, including relevant United Kingdom legislation. (108242)
CIS 08-744 Preventing violence and harassment in the workplace. Di Martino V., Hoel H., Cooper C.L., European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, Wyattville Road, Loughingstown, Dublin 18, Ireland, 2003. viii. 100p. Illus. Approx. 220 ref., ISBN 92-897-0211-7 (In English) Internet: This report presents the findings of a European project on violence and harassment at the workplace. It identifies the different forms and patterns of violence and harassment at the workplace in the EU and describes the recent upsurge in activity and initiatives in this field within the legal arena, with new legislation addressing these problems recently enacted or in the pipeline in a number of countries. It also presents evidence of adverse effects of such behaviour on individuals, organizations and society, and assesses the potential financial costs. Finally, it analyses the factors that contribute to physical and psychological violence, and reviews a variety of good practices with respect to preventing and managing violence and harassment at work. (108039)
CIS 08-745 Violence, bullying and harassment in the workplace. Lehto A.M, Pärnänen A., European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, Wyattville Road, Loughingstown, Dublin 18, Ireland, 2007. 21p. Illus. 17 ref. (In English) Internet: Incidence rates of physical violence, bullying and sexual harassment have increased, according to the European Working Conditions Survey and national surveys. This study examines the manner in which these issues have been studied in the national surveys of seven European countries. It is difficult to say how much of the increase is due to raised awareness, but the heightened levels of experience reported must be regarded as real. It also became apparent in the study that physical violence, bullying and sexual harassment are very different and cannot be regarded in the same way. This means that the preventive measures implemented at the workplace must be tailored to fit each problem. (108040)
CIS 08-746 A business case for the Management Standards for stress. Bond F.W., Flaxman P.E., Loivette S., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. vi, 37p. 77 ref. (In English) Internet: This aim of this literature survey was to determine the extent to which the effective management of some or all of the six key factors of occupational stress is associated with beneficial business outcomes. These six stressors are demands, control, support, relationships, role and change. Findings lead to the conclusion that there is evidence of a business case for each stressor area, greatest for control and weakest for demands. Other findings are discussed. (108152)
CIS 08-747 Defining a case of work-related stress. Cox T., Griffiths A., Houdmont J., Health and Safety Executive, HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2006. viii, 117p. Illus. Approx. 250 ref. (In English) Internet: This research on work-related stress involved two parallel studies. The first concerned case definitions already applied within epidemiological surveys in the United Kingdom. The second study involved identifying key stakeholders and collecting from them information on the case definitions employed in their various fields and on their views concerning the feasibility of developing a single case definition that could span all domains while remaining consistent with epidemiological case definitions. No simple and universal case definition was found to be possible, largely because of the complex nature of work-related stress. However, a case definition and associated assessment framework was arrived at by consensus and acknowledged across stakeholder groups suitable for application within the occupational health domain. (108168)
CIS 08-748 Manual on prevention of substance abuse in small enterprises. Singh H., International Labour Organization, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Federation House, Tansen Marg, New Delhi 110001, India, 2000. 65p. 35 ref. (In English) Internet: This booklet was published as part of an ILO project entitled "Mobilising small businesses to prevent substance abuse". It offers an Indian perspective based on a series of activities carried out in three Indian cities with the collaboration of the local chambers of commerce, non-governmental organizations and rehabilitation centres. Activities included conferences, training programmes, group discussion and street plays, Contents: introduction; substance abuse in the workplace; strategy for preventive action; mobilisation of small enterprises; awareness, education and training; assistance to workers with problems. (108250)
CIS 08-749 Raising awareness of stress at work in developing countries. Houtman I., Jettinghoff K., Cedillo L., World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service,1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2007. 44p. Illus. 42 ref., ISBN 92-4-159165-X (In English) Internet: In developing countries, the focus of occupational safety and health initiatives has until now essentially been on chemical, biological and physical exposures, while the psychosocial risks at work are still largely neglected. This booklet aims at raising awareness among employers and worker representatives of work-related stress in developing countries. Topics addressed: effects of globalization and the changing nature of work; definition of work-related stress; step-by-step approach to managing work-related stress; role of employers' and workers' representatives. (108247)
CIS 08-750 Occupational stress - Steps of a prevention approach. (French: Stress au travail - Les étapes d'une démarche de prévention) Chouanière D., Langevin V., Guibert A., Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, July 2007. 31p. Illus. Price: EUR 6.50. Downloadable version free of charge., ISBN 978-2-7389-1448-4 (In French) Internet: This guide on stress in occupational settings is aimed at all persons responsible for occupational safety and health within the enterprise. It proposes a six-step prevention approach: pre-diagnosis; putting together a project team; comprehensive diagnosis; communication of the findings; developing and implementing an action plan; follow-up. For each of the steps, it includes examples and comments from users. (108077)
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