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Workplace health promotion - 523 entries found

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  • Workplace health promotion

2008

CIS 09-1067 Baker K.M., Goetzel R.Z., Pei X., Weiss A.J., Bowen J., Tabrizi M.J., Nelson C.F., Metz R.D., Pelletier K.R., Thompson E.
Using a return-on-investment estimation model to evaluate outcomes from an obesity management worksite health promotion program
Certain modifiable risk factors lead to high health care costs and reduced worker productivity. A predictive return-on-investment (ROI) estimation model was applied to an obesity management intervention to demonstrate the use of econometric modelling in establishing financial justification for worksite health promotion. Self-reported risk factors of 890 employees with a body mass index ≥30 were analyzed using statistical evaluation methods. Changes in risk factors, demographics and financial measures comprised the model inputs that determined medical and productivity savings. Over one year, seven out of ten health risks decreased. Of total projected savings, 59% were attributed to reduced health care expenditures and 41% resulted from productivity improvements, a USD 1.17 return per dollar of investment.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep 2008, Vol.50, No.9, p.981-990. Illus. 50 ref.

CIS 09-1188 Billings D.W., Cook R.F., Hendrickson A., Dove D.C.
A web-based approach to managing stress and mood disorders in the workforce
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based multimedia health promotion programme for the workplace, designed to help reduce stress and the risk of depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Using a randomized controlled trial design, 309 working adults were randomly assigned to the web-based intervention group or to a control group. All participants were assessed on multiple self-reported outcomes before and after the intervention. Relative to controls, the web-based group reduced their stress, increased their knowledge of depression and anxiety, developed more positive attitudes toward stress treatment and adopted a more controlled approach to alcohol consumption.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug 2008, Vol.50, No.8, p.960-968. 44 ref.

CIS 09-1175 Duijts S.F.A., Kant I., van den Brandt P.A., Swaen G.M.H.
Effectiveness of a preventive coaching intervention for employees at risk for sickness absence due to psychosocial health complaints: Results of a randomized controlled trial
Employees of three health care and educational institutions in the Netherlands were screened for the risk for sickness absence due to psychosocial health complaints. Retained subjects were identified and randomized into two groups. The intervention group received the preventive coaching program, while the control group received usual care. No effect of coaching on self-reported sickness absence due to psychosocial health complaints was found. However the intervention group reported statistically significant improved health, less psychological distress, less burnout, less need for recovery and an increased satisfaction with life.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2008, Vol.50, No.7, p.765-776. Illus. 32 ref.

CIS 09-988 Cleary C., Hilton M., Sheridan J., Whiteford H.
Organisational barriers preventing the initiation of mental health programs
Despite strong evidence of the usefulness of mental health programmes in the workplace, their adoption rate by organizations has been slow. This article analyzes the reasons provided by 58 large organisations in Australia for not adopting such programmes. The primary reasons provided include: logistics and costs; organisational structure; adverse union or media repercussions; not an organizational priority. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Dec. 2008, Vol.24, No.6, p.507-517. 65 ref.

CIS 09-589 Linnan L., Bowling M., Childress J., Lindsay G., Blakey C., Pronk S., Wieker S., Royall P.
Results of the 2004 National Worksite Health Promotion Survey
Worksite health promotion programmes, policies and services were examined to monitor the achievement of the Healthy People 2010 worksite-related goal of 75% of worksites offering a comprehensive worksite health promotion programme. A nationally representative, cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted of worksite health promotion programmes, stratified by worksite size and industry type. Only 6.9% of responding worksites offered a comprehensive worksite health promotion programme. Worksites with more than 750 employees consistently offered more programmes, policies and services than did smaller worksites. Other findings are discussed.
American Journal of Public Health, Aug. 2008, Vol. 98, No.8, p.1503-1509. 17 ref.

CIS 09-244 Schell E., Theorell T., Hasson D., Arnetz B., Saraste H.
Impact of a web-based stress management and health promotion program on neck-shoulder-back pain in knowledge workers? 12 month prospective controlled follow-up
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based stress management programme on perceived neck-shoulder-back pain. It involved 226 employees of a Swedish television channel who were divided into two study groups and one control group. The programme tool was offered to both study groups, while one group was also offered a more conventional programme of stress management exercises. Data were collected from all three groups at baseline, after six months and after twelve months. The group with more intensive programme showed decreased low back pain. There were no significant differences between the groups in neck-shoulder pain. Other findings are discussed. Overall, the effectiveness of the programme was not proven conclusively.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 2008, Vol.50, No.6, p.667-676. Illus. 28 ref.

CIS 09-130 Gan Q., Hammond S.K., Jiang Y., Yang Y., Hu T.W.
Effectiveness of a smoke-free policy in lowering secondhand smoke concentrations in offices in China
To examine the second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure level in Chinese office buildings and to evaluate the effectiveness of a smoke-free policy in reducing SHS exposure, a survey was carried out in 14 office buildings from 10 provinces in China. Smoking in the building significantly elevated the SHS concentrations both in offices with at least one smoker and in offices with no smokers. In one building that recently adopted a smoke-free policy, the nicotine concentrations decreased significantly. It is concluded that the enactment of no-smoking policies would be effective in reducing SHS exposure in office buildings.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2008, Vol.50, No.5, p.570-575. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 09-223 Couser G.P.
Challenges and opportunities for preventing depression in the workplace: A review of the evidence supporting workplace factors and interventions
The objective of this literature survey was to highlight workplace factors and interventions for preventing depression at the workplace. A strategy to prevent depression at the workplace can include developing individual resilience, screening high-risk individuals and reducing that risk, improving organizational literacy, and integrating workplace and health care systems to allow access to proactive quality interventions.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2008, Vol.50, No.4, p.411-427. 125 ref.

CIS 09-235 Ruotsalainen J., Serra C., Marine A., Verbeek J.
Systematic review of interventions for reducing occupational stress in health care workers
This literature survey evaluated the effectiveness of interventions in reducing stress and burnout at work among health care workers. It is concluded that there is some evidence available for a reduction in stress levels from person-directed, person-work interface, and organizational interventions among health care workers. This finding should lead to a more active stress management policy in health care institutions.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, June 2008, Vol.34, No.3, p.169-178. Illus. 60 ref.

CIS 08-1308 Kaatz M., Ladermann R., Stadeler M., Fluhr J.W., Elsner P., Bauer A.
Recruitment strategies for a hand dermatitis prevention programme in the food industry
An interdisciplinary Skin Disease Prevention Programme (SDPP) in the baking, hotel, and catering industries was established in Germany. However, only 30% of the eligible employees suffering from occupational hand dermatitis (OHD) participated in the programme. The objective of this study was to examine alternative ways of increasing participation. Employees were invited to take part in the SDPP using one of the four alternative methods: a standard invitation letter; a personalized and targeted invitation letter; the personalized invitation letter and a case report; the personalized invitation letter, the case report and additional information. The commitment of the employees to join the SDPP increased significantly from 30% to 54% in the group receiving the personalized invitation letter. Neither the additional case report nor the additional information concerning the SDPP had any effect on increasing the recruitment.
Contact Dermatitis, Sep. 2008, Vol.59, No.3, p.165-170. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 08-841 Walter L.
Worthington puts wellness to work
This article describes the wellness promotion efforts of a steel processing enterprise employing around 8000 workers at 68 sites within the United States and in 10 other countries. At their headquarters, the company operates a gym, a medical centre and a pharmacy. It offers a choice of health care plan options and the chance to participate in a voluntary wellness programme. Employees who voluntarily participate in the programme first undergo a health screening. Participation involves monetary benefits in health insurance costs. Moderate and high-risk employees must acquire two points per quarter to maintain their presence in the programme. To earn points, participants can choose from a variety of options, such as completing an online healthy living programme, participating in the company wellness challenge or joining a weight management or smoking cessation programme. The company employs a dietician, who is on hand to help employees evaluate their food choices, convert recipes into healthier versions and promote smoking cessation. Two full-time personal trainers at the company's fitness facilities help employees develop exercise plans. Other features of the programme are discussed.
Occupational Hazards, Apr. 2008, p.22-28. Illus.

2007

CIS 12-0079 Bernhard C.A., Droz P.O., Favre O., Gonik V., Guillemin M., Herrera H., Lazor-Blanchet C., Mann S., Oppliger A., Perret V., Pierrehumbert G., Praplan S., Sager A., Schafer M., Vernez D.
Introduction ot occupational hygiene - Training support
Introduction à l'hygiène du travail - Un support de formation [in French]
Aimed at French-speaking developing countries, this guide seeks to facilitate the acquisition of essential basic knowledge in the management of chemical, biological and physical hazards at the place of work, by medical practitioner and safety specialist networks. Contents: framework and general context; hygiene and safety at work; hazard identification; hazard evaluation; hazard management.
World Health Organization, Distribution and Sales Service,1211 Genève 27, Switzerland, 2007. viii, 138p. Illus. Bibl.ref.
Introduction_à_l'hygiène_du_travail_[INTERNET_FREE_ACCESS] [in French]

CIS 11-0781
Região Norte, Inspecção-Geral do Trabalho, ASPET
7th International congress on occupational safety, hygiene and health
7o Congresso internacional de segurança, higiene e saúde do trabalho [in Portuguese]
Proceedings of an international conference on occupational safety, hygiene and health held in Porto, Portugal, 31 May - June 1, 2007. A total of 38 presentations are included. Main topics covered: legal aspects; social responsibility and occupational safety and health; risky behaviour: education and occupational safety and health training; health and occupational medicine; occupational safety and health management.
Ordem des Engenheiros Região Norte, rua Rodrigues Sampaio 23, 4000-125 Porto, Portugal, 2007. 275p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 11-0603
Superintendencia de Riesgos del Trabajo
Resolution 1629/2007. Approval of the Regulation concerning the recognition of the implementation of occupational safety and health management systems [Argentina]
Resolución 1629/2007. Apruébase el "Reglamento para el reconocimiento de implementación de los sistemas de gestión de la seguridad y la salud en el trabajo" [Argentina] [in Spanish]
This regulation specifies the requirements and procedures for the recognition of the implementation of occupational safety and health management systems by the Argentinian public OSH institution (Superintendencia de riesgos del trabajo, SRT), and presents a model of the enterprise management system validation document.
Boletín Oficial de la República Argentina, 26 October 2007, No.31.268, p.50-51. Illus.

CIS 11-0602
Superintendencia de Riesgos del Trabajo
Resolution 523/2007. Decree 249/2007. Approval of the national directives on occupational safety and health management systems [Argentina]
Resolución 523/2007. Apruébanse las "Directrices nacionales para los sistemas de gestión de la seguridad y la salud en el trabajo" [Argentina] [in Spanish]
This resolution approves the national directives on occupational safety and health management systems based on ILO OSH 2001. It defines enterprise policy concerning OSH, organization and responsibilities within the enterprise, system planning and implementation, system evaluation, corrective actions and continuous improvement of the system.
Boletín Oficial de la República Argentina, 17 April 2007, No.31.136, p.17-31. Illus.

CIS 10-0666 MSD prevention guideline for Ontario and Resource manual
The MSD Prevention Guideline for Ontario provides information and advice on a recommended generic framework for preventing musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace, while the companion Resource Manual for the MSD Prevention Guideline for Ontario contains information on implementing the process described in the guideline, on understanding and recognizing MSD hazards, on assessing risks and on controlling hazards.
Occupation Health and Safety Council of Ontario, 11th Floor, WSIB, 200 Front Street W, Toronto, Ontario M5V 3J, 2007. iv, 29p. Illus. 9 ref.; vi, 71p. Illus. 19 ref.
Guideline.pdf [in English]
Resource_Manual.pdf [in English]
Lignes_directrices.pdf [in French]
Manuel_de_resources.pdf [in French]

CIS 10-0335 Habib R.R.
Overview of the occupational safety and health situation in the Arab region
In an effort to promote safer working conditions in the Arab region, the ILO and the Arab Labour Organization (ALO) held a workshop in Damascus, Syria, on 18-20 November 2007. In preparation for the meting, a questionnaire was addressed to the Ministries of Labour of all participating countries to obtain information on the existing national occupational safety and health conditions. These responses were used to compile this report, which served as a basis for discussion during the workshop. Contents: introduction; general data; OSH legislation and enforcement; labour inspection system; OSH education, training and information; national system for notification and recording; workers' compensation systems; occupational health services; national OSH policies an programmes; national OSH advisory body/safety council; national OSH legislation; statistics on work-related accidents and diseases; recommendations and conclusion. The report is also available in Arabic.
ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2007. 93p. 10 ref.
Overview_of_the_OSH_situation.pdf [in English]

CIS 09-1063 Finkelstein E.A., Linnan L.A., Tate D.F., Birken B.E.
A pilot study testing the effect of different levels of financial incentives on weight loss among overweight employees
To test the effectiveness of modest financial incentives to encourage weight loss among overweight employees, a randomized design was applied with measurements at baseline, three and six months, and three levels of financial incentives (none, USD 7.00 and USD 14.00 per percentage point of weight lost). Payments were structured so that all participants had equal ability to obtain the incentives during the study period. At three months, participants with no financial incentive lost 2.0 pounds, those in the USD 7.00 group lost approximately 3.0 pounds and those in the USD 14.00 group lost 4.7 pounds. However after six months, weight losses were similar across groups. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2007, Vol.49, No.9, p.981-989. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 09-1022 Franche R.L., Severin C.N., Hogg-Johnson S., Côté P., Vidmar M., Lee H.
The impact of early workplace-based return-to-work strategies on work absence duration: A 6-month longitudinal study following an occupational musculoskeletal injury
The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between six early return-to-work (RTW) strategies and work absence duration. Using a cohort of 632 claimants with work-related musculoskeletal injuries, Cox proportional hazard analyses were performed with RTW strategies measured one month after injury as predictors of a 6-month work absence. Outcomes were 6-month self-reported work absence duration and time receiving wage replacement benefits from an administrative database. Work accommodation and advice from the health care provider were significant predictors of shorter work absence duration indexed by both self-report and administrative data. Other findings are discussed.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2007, Vol.49, No.9, p.960-974. Illus. 30 ref.

CIS 09-476 van Rhenen W., Blonk R.W.B., Schaufeli W. B, van Dijk F.J.H.
Can sickness absence be reduced by stress reduction programs: On the effectiveness of two approaches
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of two preventive stress reduction programmes - a cognitive focused programme and a combined intervention of physical exercise and relaxation - on sickness absence in stressed and non-stressed employees working in various jobs in a telecom company. Sickness absence data of 242 employees were analyzed with respect to spells of sickness (frequency, incidence rate), days (length, duration) and time between intervention and first subsequent absent spell. For stressed employees, this study suggests that the illness burden represented by absenteeism is not affected by the interventions. There is no substantial difference in effectiveness between the cognitive and physical interventions. However, in comparison with the physical intervention, the cognitive intervention decreases the period between the intervention and the first recurrence of a sick leave period.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2007, Vol.80, No.6, p.505-515. Illus. 74 ref.

CIS 09-153 Liebman A.K., Juárez P.M., Leyva C., Corona A.
A pilot program using promotoras de salud to educate farmworker families about the risks from pesticide exposure
This paper reviews a successful education effort to minimize pesticide exposure to migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their families through innovative training curricula, informal participatory educational techniques and culturally sensitive outreach methods. In 2004, lay health educators (promotoras de salud), were trained in pesticide safety and in ways to promote safety information in the farmworker community in New Mexico. Through home visits and small group workshops, the promotoras trained 273 farmworkers and farmworker family members on ways to reduce exposures to pesticides in their homes and at work, with an emphasis on protecting children. The families received a Spanish language comic book that reinforced the pesticide safety information. The project resulted in a significant increase in knowledge regarding the routes of exposure, the vulnerability of children, the signs and symptoms of pesticide poisonings and the ways to minimize pesticide exposures.
Journal of Agromedicine, 2007, Vol.12, No.2, p.33-43. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 08-1460 Koh D., Ong B.L., Li A., Kasai T., Amin F., Lugah V, Wilburn S., Eijkemans G., Mukhopadhyay P., Nguyen T.H.T., Nguyen V.B., Tran T.D., Vu N.L., Bennoor K.S., Hassan M.R., Rahman M.F., Mahmud A.M., Hossain M.A., Haque M.E., Kabir M.H., Kalamuddin A.F.M., Ali T., Huq A.K.M.S., Shin B.M.
Infectious diseases
Collection of articles on infectious diseases of relevance to countries in the Asian-Pacific region. Contents: WHO strategy for emerging diseases in East Asia; HIV/AIDS prevention in Malaysia; protecting health workers from occupational exposure to HIV, hepatitis and other bloodborne pathogens; problem of occupational heat stress in India; evaluating the experience of Vietnam in controlling human influenza A (H5N1); incidence of tuberculosis among garment workers in Bangladesh; occupational exposure to hepatitis B among Korean health care workers.
Asian-Pacific Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, May 2007, Vol.14, No.1, p.2-23 (whole issue). Illus. 63 ref.
http://www.ttl.fi/NR/rdonlyres/CC3D2788-535F-4445-8A74-CE56311AE501/0/AsianPacificNewsletter12007.pdf [in English]

CIS 08-1061 Ichihashi T., Muto T., Shibuya K.
Cost-benefit analysis of a worksite oral-health promotion program
This study was conducted to examine whether dental health promotion programmes provided as an occupational health service for employees were cost-beneficial for employers. The subjects were composed of 357 male workers who participated in oral-health promotion programmes conducted at their workplaces between 1992 and 1997. Three programmes (light: one visit; medium: two to four visits; intensive: five to six visits) were compared through cost-benefit analysis. The programmes consisted of oral-health checkups by dentists and oral-health education by dental hygienists. The costs of the programme included direct costs for the payment of oral-health-care staff and for teaching materials, and indirect costs for the time for employee participation in the programme (20 min/employee per visit). The accumulated dental expenses for the duration of the programme were used to calculate benefits. The benefit/cost ratios of the three programmes were -2.45, 1.46, and 0.73, respectively, suggesting that a medium-frequency programme is cost-beneficial for employers.
Industrial Health, Jan. 2007, Vol.45, No.1, p.32-36. 24 ref.

CIS 08-1243 Nakao M., Nishikitani M., Shima S., Yano E.
A 2-year cohort study on the impact of an employee assistance program (EAP) on depression and suicidal thoughts in male Japanese workers
The objective of this study was to assess the impact of an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) on depression and suicide-related behaviours in the workplace. It involved 283 male Japanese employees aged 22-38 years at a Japanese information technology company introducing an EAP. Controls consisted of 22 men working at an affiliated company without the EAP. All participants completed the Hamilton Depression Scale questionnaire (HAM-D) and Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) before the EAP was introduced and two years after its introduction. In the EAP group, the total HAM-D scores significantly decreased after the two-year study period, while no significant changes were observed in the reference group. The JCQ scores were not significantly different between the baseline and after the two-year study period in both groups. EAPs may be a promising strategy for maintaining the good mental health of workers.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nov. 2007, Vol.81, No.2, p.151-157. 30 ref.

CIS 08-79 Whysall Z.
Present and infect
When individuals come to work while feeling unwell, there are hidden costs for both employees and their employers. Presenteeism is defined as lost productivity that occurs when employees come to work but perform below due to any kind of illness. Common causes of presenteeism include migraines, allergies, depression, musculoskeletal problems, gastrointestinal problems and eczema. In the case of contagious diseases such as influenza, affected individuals who come to work may transmit the disease to fellow employees. This article explains how investigating the problem of presenteeism can potentially reduce sickness absence.
Safety and Health Practitioner, Aug. 2007, Vol.25, No.8, p.54-56. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 08-229 Carlton O.
Station assistance
This article presents the London Underground's Health Improvement Plan, focusing primarily on the work the transport provider's occupational health team has done on stress, anxiety and depression, and on empowering employees to address and improve their own health issues. The programme involved workplace stress risk assessments, voluntary health checks, face-to-face counselling, the distribution of educational materials in the form of booklets on diabetes and stress, workshops and surveys.
Safety and Health Practitioner, Aug. 2007, Vol.25, No.8, p.35-38. Illus. 2 ref.

CIS 08-29 Goetzel R.Z., Shechter D., Ozminkowski R.J., Marmet P.F., Tabrizi M.J., Chung Roemer E.
Promising practices in employer health and productivity management efforts: Findings from a benchmarking study
The objective of this study was to identify key success factors related to employer-based health and productivity management (HPM) programmes. Data regarding promising practices in HPM were gathered via literature review, discussions with experts and site visits. Promising practices in HPM were found to include: integrating HPM programs into the organization's operations; simultaneously addressing individual, environmental, policy and cultural factors affecting health and productivity; targeting several health issues; tailoring programs to address specific needs; attaining high participation; rigorously evaluating programs; communicating successful outcomes to key stakeholders.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 2007, Vol.49, No.2, p.111-130. 70 ref.

CIS 07-1059 Kortum E.
World Health Organization (WHO)
Elimination of silicosis
Silicosis is a form of pneumoconiosis caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica dust. It causes inflammation and scarring of the upper lobes of the lungs. It is characterized by shortness of breath, fever and cyanosis (bluish skin). Contents of this issue on the elimination of silicosis: ILO/WHO global programme for the elimination of silicosis; preventing exposure to dust; other silica-related diseases, including chronic obstructive bronchitis; silicosis prevention programmes in Chile, the USA, India and Brazil.
GOHNET Newsletter, 2007, No. 12. p.1-20 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref.
http://www.who.int/entity/occupational_health/publications/newsletter/gohnet12e.pdf [in English]
http://www.who.int/entity/occupational_health/publications/newsletter/gohnet12eref.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-588 Collier A.C., Richards S.C., Van der Borght F.M., Rinke de Wit T.F.
A successful workplace program for voluntary counseling and testing and treatment of HIV/AIDS at Heineken, Rwanda
Heineken Breweries launched a workplace HIV/AIDS programme at its Rwanda subsidiary in September 2001. By January 25, 2005, 736/2,595 eligible individuals had reported for counselling and HIV testing: 380/521 employees (72.9%), 254/412 spouses (61.7%), 99/1,517 children (6.5%) and 3/145 retired (2.0%). As a result, 109 HIV+ individuals were identified: 62 employees, 34 spouses, 12 children and 1 retired. In September 2003 an anonymous HIV seroprevalence survey was performed with participation rates of 69.4% for employees, 58.2% for spouses and 79.7% for adolescents. Using the survey result, the expected number of HIV+ employees was 71, which implies a programme uptake of 87.1% (62/71) in this group. Of the identified 109 HIV+ beneficiaries, 42 were on highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). In November 2003 a qualitative study of awareness and health-seeking behaviour of the Heineken Rwanda beneficiaries identified key principles contributing to the success of this programme.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 2007, Vol.13, No.1, p.99-106. Illus. 17 ref.
http://www.ijoeh.com/pfds/IJOEH_1301_Feeley.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-491
Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario
Resource manual for the MSD Prevention Guideline for Ontario
Manuel de ressources des lignes directrices de prévention des TMS pour l'Ontario [in French]
The primary purpose of this resource manual is to provide Ontario's employers and workers with more detailed information and advice on how to implement the generic framework for preventing musculoskeletal disorders that is described in the MSD Prevention Guideline for Ontario (see CIS 07-490). Further guidance is given on each of the issues addressed in the Guideline: MSD prevention as part of an occupational health and safety programme; creating a foundation for a successful MSD prevention programme; understanding and recognition of MSD hazards; conducting an MSD risk assessment; choice and implementation of control measures; follow-up and evaluation of controls; communication of results.
Industrial Accident Prevention Association (IAPA), Centre for Health & Safety Innovation, 5110 Creekbank Road, Suite 300, Mississauga, Ontario, L4W 0A1, Canada, 2007. 71p. Illus. 33 ref. PDF document.
http://www.iapa.ca/documents/MSD_Manuel_resources_fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.iapa.ca/documents/msd_2006_guideline_ontario_resource_manual.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-490
Occupational Health and safety Council of Ontario
MSD prevention guideline for Ontario
Lignes directrices de prévention des TMS pour l'Ontario [in French]
The primary purpose of this guide is to provide Ontario's employers and workers with information and advice on a recommended generic framework for preventing musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in the workplace. Contents: definition of MSD; MSD prevention as part of an occupational health and safety programme; creating a foundation for a successful MSD prevention programme; understanding MSD hazards (forces on the body, awkward posture, repetition); recognizing MSD hazards and related concerns; conducting an MSD risk assessment; choice and implementation of control measures; follow-up and evaluation of controls; communication of results. See CIS 07-491 for the resource manual accompanying this guide.
Industrial Accident Prevention Association (IAPA), Centre for Health & Safety Innovation, 5110 Creekbank Road, Suite 300, Mississauga, Ontario, L4W 0A1, Canada, 2007. 29p. Illus. 9 ref. PDF document.
http://www.iapa.ca/documents/MSD_Lignes_directrices.pdf [in French]
http://www.iapa.ca/documents/msd_2006_guideline_ontario.pdf [in English]

2006

CIS 08-221 Cole D.C., Hogg-Johnson S., Manno M., Ibrahim S., Wells R.P., Ferrier S.E.
Reducing musculoskeletal burden through ergonomic program implementation in a large newspaper
The objective of this study was to assess the impact of a workplace ergonomic programme to reduce musculoskeletal burden among employees of a large Canadian newspaper. It involved 1003 employees from all major departments who were surveyed in 1996 and 813 who were surveyed in 2001. Data were collected by means of questionnaires. Elements of the ergonomic program included employee repetitive strain injury training, proactive assessment of workstations and early treatment of injuries through on-site physiotherapy. Through the implementation of the programme, it was possible to bring about significant improvements in a number of physical and psychosocial risk factors. The frequency and duration of musculoskeletal pain episodes were reduced. Other findings are discussed.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nov. 2006, Vol.80, No.2, p.98-108. Illus. 51 ref.

CIS 07-1329 Rogers M.
Fit for life
This article discusses the benefits of employer-managed health promotion programmes. Such programmes create competitive advantage by encouraging employees to remain fit and in good health. They include, for example, improving the physical and psychosocial work environments, anti-smoking campaigns, on-site gyms and flu vaccination, as well as information on healthy diets and lifestyles. Programmes implemented by several Canadian enterprises are cited as examples.
Accident Prevention, Sep.-Oct. 2006, Vol.54, No.4, p.20-24. Illus.

CIS 07-1225 Cable J.
Fighting back
Of the 1.3 million reported lost-time injuries and illnesses in private industry in the USA in 2003, sprains and strains most often involving the back were the leading type of injury in every major industry sector, accounting for 43% of the total lost-time cases, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics. An insurance company estimates that in 2005, injuries caused by overexertion defined as excessive lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, carrying or throwing an object, all of which are key ingredients of back injuries, cost employers USD 13.4 billion. This article outlines the key elements of a back safety programme based on four main components: training, engineering controls, fitness and health care initiatives. Also describes an ergonomics programme implemented in an airline company.
Occupational Hazards, Aug. 2006, p.23-28. Illus.

CIS 07-575 Goldberg M., et al.
The French national mesothelioma surveillance program
This article describes the French national mesothelioma surveillance programme. Its objectives are to estimate trends in mesothelioma incidence and the proportion attributable to occupational asbestos exposure, to help improve its pathological diagnosis, to assess its compensation as an occupational disease and to contribute to research. The programme records incident pleural tumours in 21 French Departments that cover a population of approximately 16 million people (a quarter of the French population). A standardized procedure of pathological and clinical diagnosis is used. Among men, the industries with the highest risks of mesothelioma are construction and ship repair, the asbestos industry and the manufacture of metal construction materials; the occupations at highest risk are plumbers, pipe-fitters, and sheet-metal workers. The attributable risk fraction for occupational asbestos exposure in men was 83.2%.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 2006, Vol.63, No.6, p.390-395. Illus. 24 ref.

CIS 07-258 Occupational safety and health: Programmes and materials 2007
Campagnes et offres de prévention 2007 [in French]
Prävention: Kampagnen und Angebote 2007 [in German]
Prevenzione: campagne e proposte 2007 [in Italian]
This booklet lists all occupational safety and health training programmes and materials available from SUVA, grouped under the following headings: occupational safety and health management systems; main causes of accidents; prevention of occupational diseases; building and construction; forestry; woodworking; ergonomics; health promotion; management of absenteeism; safety and health protection during leisure activities.
Suva, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, 2006. 51p. Illus
http://wwwitsp1.suva.ch/sap/its/mimes/waswo/99/pdf/88089-i.pdf [in Italian]
http://wwwitsp1.suva.ch/sap/its/mimes/waswo/99/pdf/88089-f.pdf [in French]
http://wwwitsp1.suva.ch/sap/its/mimes/waswo/99/pdf/88089-d.pdf [in German]

CIS 07-336 Morgaine K., Langley J.D., McGee R.O.
The FarmSafe programme in New Zealand: Process evaluation of year one (2003)
A national programme to raise awareness of safety issues for farm workers and reduce farm-related injuries (FarmSafe) has been implemented in New Zealand since 2002. This article describes the implementation of the first stage of this programme in 2003, presents findings from the process evaluation for the first stage, and places this evaluation in the context of a larger and longer-term evaluation programme. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key members of the five agencies responsible for the programme, with workshop facilitators and with farm workers who had participated in the first stage workshops. The process evaluation showed that the programme was successful in achieving widespread participation in a safety training programme within an industry that is predominantly one of self-employment or small businesses and where there is geographical isolation.
Safety Science, Apr. 2006, Vol.44, No.4, p.359-371. Illus. 27 ref.

CIS 07-411 Weisshaar E., Radulescu M., Bock M., Albrecht U., Diepgen T.L.
Educational and dermatological aspects of secondary individual prevention in healthcare workers
This article describes a skin protection programme for healthcare workers (HCWs). The 504 participants were HCWs suffering from skin diseases suspected to be caused by occupational factors. Training mainly focused on the texture and functioning of the skin, general aspects of occupational skin diseases (OSDs), general information concerning skin protection and instructions about the correct use of skin cleansing and skin protection products. Participants were also examined by a dermatologist and a precise history of their skin diseases was obtained. Participants rated the programme as good to excellent. Similar training programmes should be offered to employees of other occupations with an increased risk for OSD.
Contact Dermatitis, May 2006, Vol.54, No.5, p.254-260. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 07-368 Huuskonen M.S., Rantanen J.
Finnish Institute Of Occupational Health (FIOH): Prevention and detection of asbestos-related diseases, 1987-2005
Between 1987 and 1992, the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health implemented the Asbestos Programme aimed at reducing asbestos-related risks. It was a cooperative effort between government authorities, labour organizations, and health care services. Several preventive actions were taken and considerable new legislation and regulations were introduced. Approximately 200,000 people in Finland have been occupationally exposed to asbestos. Through the cooperative efforts of government, labour, health care and worker protection programmes, practically all imports ceased in 2005. Regulation of asbestos removal companies has been greatly increased. The occupational exposure limit was reduced from 2.0 fibres/cm3 to the present 0.1 fibres/cm3. Asbestos-related diseases are closely monitored. However the full benefits of the Programme, which aims to reduce asbestos-related morbidity, will not be realized for many decades.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 2006, Vol.49, No.3, p.215-220. 31 ref.

CIS 07-475 Engkvist I.L.
Evaluation of an intervention comprising a no lifting policy in Australian hospitals
The purpose of this case-control study was to evaluate the use of transfer equipment, the number of injuries, pain symptoms and absence from work among nurses after the intervention of a "no lifting policy" at a hospital, compared with nurses at two control hospitals. A comprehensive questionnaire was used for data collection. Results show that at the hospital where the policy had been introduced, the nurses used the transfer equipment regularly. They had significantly fewer back injuries, pain symptoms and absence from work due to musculoskeletal disorders compared with nurses at the control hospitals. The study showed strong evidence for supporting the implementation of a no lifting policy.
Applied Ergonomics, Mar. 2006, Vol.37, No.2, p.141-148. 52 ref.

CIS 07-106 Ylikoski M., Lamberg M., Yrjänheikki E., Ilmarinen J., Partinen R., Jokiluoma H., Vainio H.
Health in the world of work: Workplace health promotion as a tool for improving and extending work life
This report is based on the recommendation of a joint project by the Finnish Ministry of Social Affairs and Health and the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health: "Health in the World of Work - Prolonging Healthy Working Years". The central principle in the recommendation is that efforts to develop working conditions and the role of well-being at work should be given a more prominent status as factors improving competitiveness in a sustainable manner. The recommendation is divided into four areas: workers' health in all policies; a healthy enterprise; making services accessible to all; and innovations needed to achieve better work life.
Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, Helsinki, Finland, 2006. 142p. Illus. Bibl.ref.
http://www.stm.fi/Resource.phx/publishing/store/2006/11/pr1164179805757/passthru.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-69 The healthy workplace initiative: A new deal for a better workplace
This document shows how placing safety and health at the heart of the workplace can reduce the costs of injuries and ill health and improve productivity. It provides guidance for employers and employees on how to implement a healthy workplace initiative, focusing on workers' rights to safety and health, information and training of workers and risk assessment.
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, Gran Vía 33, 48009 Bilbao, Spain, 2006. Internet document. 16p. Illus.
http://bookshop.europa.eu/eubookshop/FileCache/PUBPDF/TE7606001ENC/TE7606001ENC_002.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-154 Löffler H., Bruckner T., Diepgen T., Effendy I.
Primary prevention in health care employees: A prospective intervention study in a 3-year training period
Irritant contact dermatitis is a mayor problem in health care employees. This study investigates the efficiency of a special training program among health care apprentices. 521 apprentices from 14 nursing schools in Germany were randomly divided into an intervention group with a regular teaching protocol regarding all aspects of primary prevention and a control group without any further teaching. In the intervention group, a significantly better hand skin condition was observed at the end of the three-year training period than in the control group, with the prevalence of morphological skin changes of 66.7% and 89.3% respectively. The controls had an odds ratio of 4.8 for developing any skin changes on the hands after three years. Other findings are discussed. This study shows that primary prevention of skin disease by regularly teaching during the training period of medical employees can effectively reduce the risk of development of irritant skin changes of the hands.
Contact Dermatitis, Apr. 2006, Vol.54, No.4, p.202-209. 50 ref.

CIS 06-1484 Berthelette D., Leduc N., Bilodeau H., Durand M.J., Faye C., Loignon C., Lagacé M.C.
Analysis of a training program for the primary prevention of back pain among health care staff in Quebec hospitals
Analyse d'un programme de formation visant la prévention primaire des maux de dos chez le personnel soignant des centres hospitaliers du Québec [in French]
The objective of this study was to evaluate the Safe Patient-Transfer Programme (SPTP), established since 1985 in Quebec's health care institutions to prevent back pain in care-giving personnel. It involved a literature survey and questionnaire of over 400 SPTP trainers. The objective of the first phase was to describe the programme's underlying theory, to document its implementation, and to inventory other musculoskeletal injury prevention interventions implemented in these institutions. These aspects were then used to define the expected effects of the programme, to create a reliable measuring tool, to identify the links between these effects and the training given in the workplace and to estimate the relationship between the programme's costs and benefits. Despite wide differences between institutions in the degree of SPTP implementation, it is concluded that the programme is effective.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2006. x, 260p. Illus. 77 ref. Price: CAD 17.83. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-452.pdf [in French]

2005

CIS 12-0075 London L.
Dual loyalties and the ethical and human rights obligations of occupational health professionals
Underlying most ethical dilemmas in occupational health practice is the problem of dual loyalties where health professionals have simultaneous obligations, explicit or implicit, to a third party, usually a private employer. A literature review of case studies of workplace occupational health conflicts, international human rights and ethical codes and strategies for managing dual loyalties was untertaken, and complemented by iterative discussions in an international working group convened to address the problem of dual loyalties. The practitioners' contractual relationship with the third party is often the underlying problem, being far more explicit than their moral obligation to patients, and encouraging a social identification at the expense of a practitioner's professional identity. Because existing ethical guidelines lack specificity on managing dual loyalties in occupational health, guidelines that draw on human rights standards have been developed by the working group. These guidelines propose standards for individual professional conduct and complementary institutional mechanisms to address the problem.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2005, Vol.47, p.322-332. 79 ref.
Dual_loyalties_and_the_ethical_[INTERNET_FREE_ACCESS] [in English]

CIS 08-14 Stop smoking - Collection of booklets for helping smokers or ex-smokers to quit or to stay off cigarettes
Stop tabac - Série de brochures pour motiver et aider les fumeurs ou anciens fumeurs à arrêter de fumer ou à rester ex-fumeur [in French]
Collection of eight booklets, of which seven are aimed specifically at the following categories of persons: persons who are not seriously considering to quit cigarette smoking; persons who are seriously considering to quit cigarette smoking, but are not yet ready to make an attempt; cigarette smokers who are ready to make an attempt to quit; persons who quit cigarette smoking less than six months earlier; persons who quit cigarette smoking more than six months earlier; persons who have taken up cigarette smoking again after having made an attempt to quit; women who smoke. Finally, a booklet explains the additives found in cigarette tobacco.
Programme Stop-tabac.ch, IMSP-CMU, rue Michel-Servet 1, 1211 Genève 4, Switzerland, [ca. 2005]. Series of 8 booklets.
http://www.stop-tabac.ch/fr/hon/pdf/stop-tabac1fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.stop-tabac.ch/fr/hon/pdf/stop-tabac2fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.stop-tabac.ch/fr/hon/pdf/stop-tabac3fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.stop-tabac.ch/fr/hon/pdf/stop-tabac4fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.stop-tabac.ch/fr/hon/pdf/stop-tabac6fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.stop-tabac.ch/fr/hon/pdf/stop-tabac7fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.stop-tabac.ch/fr/hon/pdf/stop-tabac8fr.pdf [in French]
http://www.stop-tabac.ch/fr/hon/pdf/stop-tabac5fr.pdf [in French]

CIS 07-876 Fedotov I.A.
The ILO/WHO global programme for the elimination of silicosis (GPES)
This article comments on the ILO/WHO programme for the elimination of silicosis (GPES) which was initiated in 1995. The objectives of the GPES are to promote the establishment of national programmes for the elimination of silicosis and to eliminate it as a worldwide occupational health problem by 2030. Contents: description of silicosis and historical developments aimed at its prevention; present situation; possibilities for elimination by implementing measures at the national and enterprise levels; global action; future efforts.
African Newsletter on Occupational Health and Safety, Dec. 2005, Vol.15, No.3, p.56-58. Illus. 5 ref.
http://www.ttl.fi/NR/rdonlyres/39784837-0345-4122-974D-822B6CEC29CA/0/african_newsletter305.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-441 Useful tips - Hearing, a vulnerable organ
Astuces pour des actions - L'ouïe, un organe vulnérable [in French]
This information sheet is aimed at employers wishing to implement a hearing protection campaign. It covers the following aspects: advantages of a hearing protection campaign; Belgian legal requirements concerning a hearing protection; guidance on the contents of a campaign and on the dissemination of information on hearing protection to the employees.
PREVENT, rue Gachard 88, Bte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2005. 2p.

CIS 07-333 Useful tips - Balanced diet for good health
Astuces pour des actions - Manger équilibré pour être en bonne santé [in French]
This information sheet is aimed at employers wishing to implement a healthy eating campaign. It covers the following aspects: advantages of a healthy eating campaign; Belgian legal requirements concerning enterprise canteens; offering a choice of healthy beverages and menus; canteen hygiene requirements; dissemination of information on hygiene and nutrition to the employees.
PREVENT, rue Gachard 88, Bte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, 2005. 2p.

CIS 07-306 Gannon P.F.G., Berg A.S., Gayosso R., Henderson B., Sax S.E., Willems H.M.J.
Occupational asthma prevention and management in industry - An example of a global programme
A global supplier of isocyanate-based automotive coatings developed a programme to address the known potential effects of isocyanates on its workers. The goals of the programme are the prevention, early detection and mitigation of asthma and dermatitis among workers exposed or potentially exposed to isocyanates and products containing isocyanates. The programme includes assessment of exposure, pre-placement questionnaires, spirometry, training of employees, regularly administered questionnaires, medical assessment for abnormal questionnaire responses, process for early reporting and investigation of symptomatic employees and incidents, data review and management reporting. These control measures are relatively inexpensive and can be applied even in small businesses. It is recommended that all employers who manufacture, handle or use isocyanate-containing products consider such a strategy.
Occupational Medicine, Dec. 2005, Vol.55, No.8, p.600-605. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 07-237 Seymour L., Grove B.
Workplace interventions for people with common mental health problems: Evidence review and recommendations
Common mental health problems are widespread among employed persons. This literature review was designed to provide evidence-based answers on key questions related to mental ill-health in the workplace. It is intended to assist managers, occupational health professionals and other interested parties in making management decisions and offering advice. The main questions addressed are: evidence for preventive programmes at work and the conditions under which they are most effective; interventions that most effectively enable employees identified as being at risk to remain at work; interventions that most effectively support rehabilitation and return to work of employees who have had periods of mental ill-health related sickness. Findings are discussed.
British Occupational Health Research Foundation (BOHRF), 6, St. Andrew's Place, Regent's Park, London. NW1 4LB, United Kingdom, 2005. PDF document. 96p. 104 ref.
http://www.bohrf.org.uk/downloads/cmh_rev.pdf [in English]

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