Fire fighting, police, prisons and the armed forces - 407 entries found

Your search criteria are

• Fire fighting, police, prisons and the armed forces

2002

CIS 03-1477 Paganon-Badinier I., Deschamps F.
Stress factors among police officers
Les facteurs de stress des fonctionnaires de police [in French]
Police work has been cited in numerous publications as being a particularly stressful occupation. Police personnel are among workers whose exposure to traumatic events, such as during help to victims of accidents or crimes, is a constant feature of their professional duty. Various studies have evaluated this stress by means of self-administrated questionnaires. It was found that stress among policemen did not differ significantly from that of other occupational groups, with several specific aspects, however. It is often the source of family conflicts. The maximum level of stress is found among policemen of intermediate rank, having 10 to 20 years of service and between 30 and 40 years of age. Perceived stress is higher for psychological and organizational stressors than for routine operational duties. An accumulating body of evidence suggests that policemen often suffer from the consequences of management errors and weak organizational systems, with resulting absenteeism.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Feb. 2002, Vol.63, No.1, p.46-52. 16 ref.

CIS 03-854 Fire fighters exposed to electrical hazards during wildland fire operations - Description of hazard
Bomberos expuestos a riesgos eléctricos durante operaciones de extinción de incendios en terrenos sin cultivar - Descripción del riesgo [in Spanish]
Electrical hazards are among the various hazards faced by fire fighters during waste land fire operations. Between 1980 and 1999, ten firefighters died from contact with electricity during wasteland fires. Contents of this information note on electrical hazards to fire fighters during wasteland fire operations: situations where fire fighters can be exposed to electrical shock hazards; description of two accident cases; measures to be implemented by fire departments and fire fighters to prevent electrocution, electrical shock and electricity-related burns while fighting wasteland fires.
Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Jan. 2002. 4p. 9 ref.
http://www.cdc.gov/spanish/niosh/docs/2002-112sp.html [in Spanish]
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hid15.html [in English]
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/pdfs/hid15.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-939 Roach G.D., Rodgers M., Dawson D.
Circadian adaptation of aircrew to transmeridian flight
The aim of this study was to investigate the circadian adaptation of a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) aircrew to several small time zone transitions using salivary melatonin onset as the marker of circadian phase. Fifteen members of an RAAF aircrew collected saliva samples, sleep and wake records, and subjective alertness ratings during a thirteen-day surveillance patrol around the southwest Pacific Ocean. During the first six days, the aircrew travelled 3.5 time zones east and melatonin onset advanced by 3.8h. During the next six days, the aircrew traveled two time zones west, but melatonin onset did not shift. Night-time sleep duration was shorter prior to workdays (6.4h) than prior to rest days (8.4h). Subjective alertness was not significantly affected by either the duration of nighttime sleep prior to work, or the duration of flight.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2002, Vol.73, No.12, p.1153-1160. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 03-938 Bridger R.S., Groom M.R., Jones H., Pethybridge R.J., Pullinger N.
Task and postural factors are related to back pain in helicopter pilots
A previous survey by revealed a high prevalence of back pain in Royal Navy helicopter aircrew. It was recommended that a second survey be undertaken, taking account of both flying tasks and cockpit ergonomics. A questionnaire containing items on back pain and posture was circulated to all 246 active pilots, with returns of 75%. The prior 12-month prevalence of back pain was 80%. Task-related back pain was greatest in instrument flying (72%) and least in the co-pilot and instructor roles (24%). Self-ratings of posture indicated that forward flexed trunk postures predominated in the pilot-in-command role and were most extreme in instrument flying. No demographic or psychosocial variables were significantly related to back pain prevalence or disability. Much of the back pain experienced by helicopter pilots appears to be due to the posture needed to operate the controls. In instrument flying, scanning the displays may exacerbate the pain by causing the pilot to lean further forward.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.73, No.8, p.805-811. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 03-242 Laraqui C.H,, Laraqui O., Douma A., Mounassif M., Rahhali A.
Perception of occupational hazards among health care workers in prisons in Morocco
Perception des risques professionnels chez le personnel de soins en milieu carcéral au Maroc [in French]
The aim of this study was to identify the perception of occupational hazards among health care workers in prison, to evaluate their satisfaction at work and to propose preventive measures. This survey was carried out in 2000 in several prisons. Among the 140 distributed questionnaires, 58% were recovered. 72.8% of the staff declared that night guard had a negative influence on their work and health and 90.1% on their social life. 35% found the working atmosphere confined, 80.2% complained of physical constraints including 50.6% from draught, 35% from excessive heat and 74% from humidity. Poor lighting of the premises was underlined by 55.5%. The most feared infectious diseases were tuberculosis (98.8%), scabies (93.8%), syphilis (91.4%), viral hepatitis (41.9%) and HIV (41.9%). Risky objects most frequently mentioned were hollow needles (80.2%), solid needles (76.5%), blades and scalpels (75.2%). Incidents involving exposure to blood were reported by 87.7% of the staff 80.2% had been threatened by prisoners. Only 2.5% had benefited from training in hygiene and prevention.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Sep. 2002, Vol.63, No.5, p.374-381. 15 ref.

CIS 02-1942 Averhoff F.M., Moyer L.A., Woodruff B.A., Deladisma A.M., Nunnery J., Alter M.J., Margolis H.S.
Occupational exposures and risk of hepatitis B virus infection among public safety workers
A questionnaire and seroprevalence survey was conducted to determine the frequency and type of occupational exposures (OEs) and the risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection experienced by public safety workers (PSWs). Of the 2910 PSWs who completed the survey, 6.8% reported at least one OE in the previous 6 months, including needlestick (1.0%), being cut with a contaminated object (2.8%), mucous membrane exposure to blood (0.9%), and being bitten by a human (3.5%). The rate of OE varied by occupation with 2.7% of firefighters, 3.2% of sheriff officers, 6.6% of corrections officers, and 7.4% of police officers reporting ≥1 OE. The HBV infection prevalence was 8.6%, and after adjustment for age and race, it was comparable to the overall US prevalence and did not vary by occupation. Administration of hepatitis B vaccine to PSWs early in their careers will prevent HBV infection associated with occupational and non-OEs.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 2002, Vol.44, No.6, p.591-596. 23 ref.

CIS 02-1941 Rischitelli G., McCauley L., Lambert W.E., Lasarev M., Mahoney E.
Hepatitis C in urban and rural public safety workers
A sample of 719 Oregon public safety personnel (police officers, firefighters and corrections officers) was tested for hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody after completing a risk questionnaire. Seven of nine positive enzyme immunoassay tests (78%) were confirmed with recombinant immunoblot assay, yielding confirmed prevalence estimates of 1.2% among the 406 firefighters and emergency medical technicians, and 0.7% in 274 corrections personnel. No cases were observed in the 29 participating police officers. Self-reports of the number of workplace exposures to blood were not associated with HCV positivity, and the number of years of public safety employment seemed to be slightly less for HCV-positive subjects. Two of the seven (28.6%) HCV-positive individuals reported having at least one non-occupational risk factor (odds ratio, 4.3), suggesting the greater relative importance of non-occupational exposures.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 2002, Vol.44, No.6, p.568-573. 21 ref.

CIS 02-980 Gershon R.R.M., Lin S., Li X.
Work stress in aging police officers
To study the impact of psychosocial work stress on the health and well-being of aging workers, work stress, coping strategies and stress-related health outcomes were assessed and characterized in a sample of 105 police officers aged 50 years and older. The most important risk factors associated with perceived work stress were maladaptive coping behaviours such as excessive drinking or problem gambling (odds ratio (OR), 4.95) exposure to critical incidents such as shootings (OR 3.84), anxiety (OR 6.84), depression (OR 9.27), somatization (OR 5.74), posttraumatic stress symptoms (OR 2.89), symptoms of "burnout" (OR 5.93), chronic back pain (OR 3.55), alcohol abuse (OR 3.24) and inappropriately aggressive behaviour (OR 4.00). These data suggest that older workers in high-stress jobs may be at increased risk for work stress-related health problems, especially if they rely on risky health behaviours to cope with stress.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 2002, Vol.44, No.2, p.160-167. 54 ref.

2001

CIS 02-1863 Gressmann H.J.
"Small" BLEVEs can pose problems too!
Auch "kleine" BLEVEs können Probleme bereiten! [in German]
The training and instruction manuals for fire fighters in Germany specify the safe distances that are to be observed during interventions involving boiling liquid expanding vapour explosions (BLEVEs) as a function of the type of container. In the aftermath of a fire in the course of which 15 liquefied gas cylinders exploded, safe distances were compared with the spreading of the effects of past BLEVEs. These distances were compared with those to which parts were projected as well as with the distances over which the thermal effects of the produced fireballs and the overpressure could be felt. Using this approach resulted in much larger distances than the distances considered as safe for the four types of pressure vessels containing liquefied gas. The accepted safe distances should be reevaluated in the light of these findings. Revised safe distances for these types of interventions are proposed.
Brandschutz, June 2001, Vol.55, No.6, p.549-553. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 02-1253 Goon A.T.J., Goh C.L.
Occupational skin diseases in national servicemen and military personnel in Singapore, 1989-1999
In a study of occupational skin disease in the armed forces of Singapore, all military personnel and conscripts diagnosed with occupational dermatoses in the National Skin Centre, Singapore, between 1989-1999 were studied retrospectively. Conscripts and regulars comprised 7.3% of all the occupational skin disease patients examined. All were male, with a mean age of 23 years. Irritant contact dermatitis was more common than allergic contact dermatitis, by a ratio of 4.4:1. The most common activities associated with occupational skin diseases were those involving vehicle repairs and maintenance (48%) and food handling (19%). The most common irritants were oil/grease (66%), wet work (23%) and solvents (18%). The most common allergens were food (40%) and chromates (20%). In conclusion, military personnel and conscripts make up a significant proportion of occupational skin disease patients seen in Singapore.
Contact Dermatitis, Feb. 2001, Vol.44, No.2, p.89-90. 1 ref.

CIS 02-1448 Fire fighter deaths from tanker truck rollovers
Mobile water supply vehicles, known as tankers or tenders, are widely used to transport water to areas beyond a water supply system or where the water supply is inadequate. Tanker trucks are more difficult to control than passenger vehicles. During 1977-1999, 73 deaths of firefighters occurred in 63 crashes involving tankers. Of those deaths, 54 occurred in crashes in which tankers rolled over and 8 in crashes in which the tankers left the road. Contents of this information note on firefighter deaths from tanker truck rollovers: risk factors; description of 2 accident cases; recommendations for prevention.
Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, Dec. 2001. 4p. Illus. 4 ref.
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hid14.html [in English]

CIS 02-737 Austin C.C., Dussault G., Ecobichon D.J.
Municipal firefighter exposure groups, time spent at fires and use of self-contained-breathing-apparatus
The objective of this study was to develop better estimates of firefighter exposures for use in future epidemiological studies. The study population consisted of the 1883 firefighters of the fire department of the city of Montreal. The storage and distribution of self-contained-breathing-apparatus (SCBAs) were tracked for 12 months. Time spent at fires and use of SCBAs were calculated. Eight firefighter exposure groups were identified (based on job title, assignment to a fire district and time spent at fires), ranging from no exposures to 3,244min/year/firefighter. SCBAs appear to have been used for approximately 50% of the time at structural fires but for only 6% of the time at all fires. Failure of previous studies to identify homogeneous exposure groups may have resulted in misclassification and underestimates of health risks. The approach used in this study should facilitate the highlighting of exposure/response relationships in future epidemiological studies.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Dec. 2001, Vol.40, No.6, p.683-692. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 02-941 Scherrer Y., Boillat M.A.
Are guards in the penitentiary system of the Canton of Vaud at risk of occupational exposure to blood-transmissible diseases?
Les surveillants travaillant dans le système pénitentiaire vaudois sont-ils soumis à un risque d'exposition professionnelle à une maladie transmissible par le sang? [in French]
Prison staff is at risk of blood-transmissible diseases given the nature of the of inmate population they are confronted with, in particular in the course of searches, acts of violence and accidents. The objective of this study conducted in a Swiss canton was to characterize the real and perceived risk of occupational blood-transmissible diseases in this occupation. Hepatitis B (HB) was used as an indicator of blood transmissible diseases, and HB serology of all employees (n = 248) was determined. Furthermore, a questionnaire was addressed to all employees. 19% of the warders had been wounded during searches in cells and 8.2% when searching inmates. One third of the guards had been at least once in contact with the blood of a prisoner. However, no increases in the number of seroconversions were observed. Finally, risk perception remains intense, concerning 73% of the guards and 20% of the remaining staff.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Apr. 2001, Vol.62, No.2, p.83-91. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 02-735 Burgess J.L., Nanson C.J., Bolstad-Johnson D.M., Gerkin R., Hysong T.A., Lantz R.C., Sherrill D.L., Crutchfield C.D., Quan S.F., Bernard A.M., Witten M.L.
Adverse respiratory effects following overhaul in firefighters
Overhaul is the stage in which fire-fighters search for and extinguish possible sources of reignition, during which they generally do not wear respiratory protection. 51 fire-fighters in two groups, 25 without respiratory protection and 26 wearing cartridge respirators, were monitored for exposure to products of combustion and changes in spirometric measurements and lung permeability following overhaul of a structural fire. Testing at baseline and 1 hour after overhaul included forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁), serum Clara cell protein (CC16), and serum surfactant-associated protein A (SP-A). Overhaul increased CC16 in both groups, indicating increased alveolar capillary membrane permeability. Contrary to expectations, SP-A increased and FVC and FEV₁ decreased in the fire-fighters wearing cartridge respirators. Changes in FEV₁, CC16, and SP-A were associated with concentrations of specific products of combustion or carboxyhaemoglobin levels. It is concluded that self-contained breathing apparatus should be worn during overhaul to prevent lung injury.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2001, Vol.43, No.5, p.467-473. 38 ref.

CIS 02-699 Bates M.N., Fawcett J., Garrett N., Arnold R., Pearce N., Woodward A.
Is testicular cancer an occupational disease of fire fighters?
A previous investigation showed an increased risk of testicular cancer among firefighters in Wellington City, New Zealand, during the 1980s, while other studies of firefighters had not identified testicular cancer as an occupational disease. The present cohort study of mortality and cancer incidence involved all professional New Zealand firefighters, from 1977 to 1995. It confirms the increased risk of testicular cancer, even after excluding cases from the previous investigation, with a standardized incidence ratio for 1990-96 of 3.0. There was no evidence that firefighters were at increased risk from other cancers nor from any particular cause of death. While this study confirmed that New Zealand firefighters are at increased risk of testicular cancer, the reasons remain unknown.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2001, Vol.40, No.3, p.263-270. 26 ref.

CIS 02-192 Mustajbegovic J., Zuskin E., Schachter E.N., Kern J., Vrcic-Keglevic M., Heimer S., Vitale K., Nada T.
Respiratory function in active firefighters
The health effects of firefighting on respiratory function were investigated in a group of 128 active firefighters and 88 non-exposed control workers. Significantly higher prevalences of dyspnoea, nasal catarrh, sinusitis, and hoarseness were recorded in firefighters. A high prevalence of acute symptoms experienced during and after fire extinguishing was also observed. Eye and throat irritation as well as headache were prominent. A logistic regression analysis of chronic respiratory symptoms demonstrated that odds ratios were significant for both duration of work exposure and for smoking. Lung function testing demonstrated a decrease in FEF₇₅ in relation to predicted suggesting obstructive changes in the smaller airways. A regression analysis of ventilatory capacity tests indicated a positive relationship of forced vital capacity with length of employment, 1s forced expiratory volume as well as FEF₅₀ were related to smoking, and FEF₇₅ was related to both smoking and length of employment.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 2001, Vol.40, No.1, p.55-62. 41 ref.

CIS 02-224 Tomei Fr., Ortolani B., Renzoni S., Pascalizi N., Riservato R., Marcellini L., De Sio S., Marinucci F., Tomao E., Baccolo T.P., Anzelmo V., Iosue M., Tomei F., Paolucci M., Ruffino M.G.
Pathological risks incurred by urban police forces and their prevention
Rischi patologia e prevenzione dei vigili urbani [in Italian]
In this review the hazards that urban police forces in Italy are exposed to are evaluated. Atmospheric pollution is considered first among the risk factors of this generally outdoor work, focusing on respiratory systems diseases. Other consequences mentioned include immunotoxic effects, and those depending on continuous noise, neoplasms, cardiovascular disorders and stress factors.
Fogli d'informazione ISPESL, Jan.-Mar. 2001, Vol.14, No.1, p.12-24. Illus. 49 ref.

CIS 01-1736 Traffic hazards to fire fighters while working along roadways
The number of fire fighters struck and killed by motor vehicles has dramatically increased within recent years. From 1995 to 1999, 17 fire fighters were killed by motorists in the United States, which represents a 89% increase compared to the previous 5-year period. Contents of this information note on traffic hazards to fire fighters while working along roadways: risk factors; description of two accident cases; measures to be implemented by fire departments and fire fighters to prevent these types of accident.
Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998, USA, June 2001. 4p. Illus. 8 ref.

2000

CIS 02-1963 Garbarino S., Nobili L., Beelke M., Balestra V., Carrea P., Ferrillo F.
Sleepiness and road accidents in Italian traffic policemen on shift-work: A study on the national autostrada network during 1993-1997
Sonnolenza ed incidenti stradali nei turnisti della polizia stradale italiana: uno studio sulla rete autostradale nazionale nel quinquennio 1993-1997 [in Italian]
In order to evaluate the time distribution and the possible role of sleepiness in highway accident causation among highway patrol personnel, a study was conducted of 1218 traffic accidents involving traffic police that occurred on the Italian autostrada (expressway/motorway) network during 1993-1997. Accidents occurring during the day were significantly correlated with traffic density, while those occurring during the night were not. During the 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. shift the number of accidents showed a progressively increasing trend with two significant peaks around 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. Information about sleep habits before starting night shifts was obtained by means of telephone interviews. The factors considered included circadian rhythms, homeostasis and fatigue. Long naps seemed to reduce the risk of accidents, however policemen seem to underestimate the risk of sleepiness during the 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. shift.
Medicina del lavoro, Sep.-Oct. 2000, Vol.91, No.5, p.486-493. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 02-247 Alléry J.P., Telmon N., Blanc A., Lefebvre V., Rougé D.
Study of accidental injuries of the upper limb in a prison population
Etude des accidents de travail touchant le membre supérieur en milieu pénitentiaire [in French]
Numerous accidental injuries of the upper limb occur in prisons. The aim of this study was to analyse the past history of the working prisoners for whom an upper-limb injury was, and to analyse the type of lesions and their physical consequences. Among a study population of 350 working prisoners, 54 work-related accidents occurred during the year 1998, of which 41 involved the upper extremities. 25 of the 41 victims participated in the study. Most of the injuries were minor, without after-effects and consisted of wounds, superficial burns and bruises. However, there were also 2 cases of amputations of the 3rd phalanx and 3 fractures (of the arm, wrist and thumb).
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Oct. 2000, Vol.61, No.6, p.425-427. Illus. 1 ref.

CIS 01-1533 Trad Fager C.
Tuberculosis, AIDS and work
Tuberculosis, SIDA y trabajo [in Spanish]
More than two thirds of the world population is believed to be infected by tuberculosis. The association between tuberculosis (TB) and immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) shows characteristic morbidity. This article describes the clinical features of TB, including its association with AIDS. This article reviews transmission factors, susceptibility and resistance to bacilli, treatment and screening, in particular in the Argentinian context. In terms of occupational hazards, TB represents a risk factor for workers in hospitals, veterinary practices, geriatric care institutions and in the meat processing industry. Various screening methods are also discussed.
Salud Ocupacional, Jan.-June 2000, Vol.XVIII, No.76, p.10-17. Illus.

CIS 01-798 Kang H.K., Mahan C.M., Lee K.Y., Magee C.A., Mather S.H., Matanoski G.
Pregnancy outcomes among U.S. women Vietnam veterans
Since the Vietnam War, there has been persistent concern that women who served in the U.S. military in Vietnam may have experienced adverse pregnancy outcomes. Self-reported pregnancy outcomes for 4,140 women Vietnam veterans were compared with those of 4,140 contemporary women veterans who were not deployed to Vietnam. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using logistic regression adjusting for age at conception, race, education, whether engaged in nursing or in combat, smoking, drinking and other exposures during pregnancy. There was no statistically significant association between military service in Vietnam and pregnancies resulting in miscarriage or stillbirth, low birth weight, pre-term delivery or infant death. However, the risk of having children with moderate-to-severe birth defects was significantly elevated among Vietnam veterans (adjusted OR = 1.46).
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 2000, Vol.38, No.4, p.447-454. 32 ref.

CIS 00-1419 Smith D.
Old MacDonald had a farm
For fire intervention in rural areas, remoteness is a problem not only because of the distance, awkward access or difficulty in locating the incident but of the potential in the countryside for unrestricted fire spread. An officer of the Devon Fire and Rescue Service gives advice to reduce the risks. A risk assessment should be conducted for any proposed activity. Emergency plans should be put in place. Location cards providing a full address and best access, as well as points of potential water supplies should be kept by the telephone and hazards in and around the premises should be clearly marked. Statistics of serious agricultural industry fires from January-December 1998 and 3 reports on fires in a garden centre and in farms are included.
Fire Prevention, July 2000, No.334, p.24-25; 38-41. Illus.

CIS 00-1434 Reeves G.I.
Review of extensive workups of 34 patients overexposed to radiofrequency radiation
Medical records of 34 patients at the Aerospace Medicine Directorate, U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory with confirmed exposure to radiofrequency radiation (RFR) exceeding the permitted exposure limits were reviewed to see if RFR overexposure created any detectable clinical or laboratory alterations and to determine which physiological and laboratory parameters required closest attention for future patients with RFR exposure. Clinical findings were compared with laboratory results. A sensation of warmth was positively associated with power density. A negative correlation was observed between an abnormal tissue destruction screen and power density. Sophisticated neurological tests in 23 patients and extensive psychometric and psychological exams in 30 patients revealed no neurological or ophthalmologic findings attributable to RFR. A few patients, however, reported burning pain that resolved over several weeks.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2000, Vol.71, No.3, p.206-215. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 00-1490 Bliese P.D., Castro C.A.
Role clarity, work overload and organizational support: Multilevel evidence of the importance of support
This study extended the demands-control-support model used in occupational stress research in two ways. Firstly, it hypothesized that role clarity (or role ambiguity), like control, would moderate the relationship between demands and psychological strain. Secondly, the study assessed support (from leaders) as a macro characteristic of the work-group environment. Data were drawn from a large study of US army soldiers, the study sample consisting of 1,786 lower enlisted male soldiers. The inclusion of support as a work-group characteristic lead to a multilevel test of the model. A three-way multilevel interaction among work demands, role clarity and support was observed. As predicted, the relationship between demands and psychologicalstrain was moderated by role clarity; however, this moderating relationship was found only when work-group support was high.
Work and Stress, Jan.-Mar. 2000, Vol.14, No.1, p.65-73. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 00-1421 Prezant D.J., Freeman K., Kelly K.J., Malley K.S., Karwa M.L., McLaughlin M.T., Hirschhorn R., Brown A.
Impact of a design modification in modern firefighting uniforms on burn prevention outcomes in New York City firefighters
To determine the influence of firefighting uniforms on the incidence and severity of thermal burn injuries affecting firefighters, data were collected for the entire New York City fire fighting force wearing the traditional uniform (protective over-coat), the modern uniform (protective over-coat and over-pant) and the modified modem uniform (short sleeved shirt and short pants, worn under firefighters protective over-clothes). With the change from traditional to modern uniforms, the distribution of burns per fire decreased significantly, and days lost to medical leave for upper or lower extremity burns decreased by 89%. Burn incidence and severity were not significantly affected by the change to the modified modern uniform. The distribution of heat exhaustion or cardiac events per fire was not significantly affected by the change from the traditional to modern uniform, but heat exhaustion was decreased by the change to the modified modern uniform.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2000, Vol.42, No.8, p.827-834. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 00-554 Juntunen J.
Contagious diseases in the working environment - Part 5/5
This videotape is part of a series of five films on contagious diseases (HIV, hepatitis C and B, tuberculosis, etc.) in the working environment (see also CIS 00-550, CIS 00-551, CIS 00-552 and CIS 00-553). This film focuses on infection risk situations which could be experienced by firemen, ambulance drivers, educational workers and childminders, and which could give rise to the possibility of their becoming carriers of a contagious disease through contact with body fluids.
EURO TV-News/Educational films, PL 1243, 96101 Rovaniemi, Finland, 2000. Videotape (VHS) (length: approx. 30min).

CIS 00-550 Juntunen J.
Contagious diseases in the working environment - Part 1/5
This videotape is part of a series of five films on contagious diseases (HIV, hepatitis C and B, tuberculosis, etc.) in the working environment (see also CIS 00-551, CIS 00-552, CIS 00-553 and CIS 00-554). This film focuses on infection risk situations which could be experienced by police, border guards, customs officials, conductors and security guards, and which could give rise to the possibility of their becoming carriers of a contagious disease through contact with body fluids.
EURO TV-News/Educational films, PL 1243, 96101 Rovaniemi, Finland, 2000. Videotape (VHS) (length: approx. 30min).

1999

CIS 01-282 Carretta T.R., Siem F.M.
Determinants of enlisted air traffic controller success
This paper provides a brief historical overview of air traffic controller (ATC) selection, reviews current U.S. Air Force (USAF) selection procedures for enlisted ATC trainees, and summarizes the results of three recent studies. The current selection composite demonstrated acceptable validity for predicting apprentice-level training performance. Alternative cut-score analyses revealed that raising the minimum qualifying score in order to reduce attrition by 5% would lead to an unacceptable 20% reduction in the number of eligible ATC candidates. Results of a survey of enlisted ATCs indicated they were generally satisfied and motivated. In addition, they identified several abilities required for on-the-job performance that are not measured by current USAF selection methods. These included memorization and retention of new information, spatial orientation/visualization, ability to work well in stressful environments, ability to shift between two or more sources of information, and ability to combine and organize information. Implications for ATC selection and training as well as future research directions are discussed.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 1999, Vol.70, No.9, p.910-918. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 01-87 Lepage M., Brett Y.B.
Figures on risks
Risques en chiffres [in French]
Topics: accident absenteeism; cost of accidents; explosions; fatalities; fire services; fire; France; injuries; occupational accidents; occupational diseases; statistical trends; statistics.
Face au risque, Jan. 1999, No.349, p.7-21. Illus.

CIS 01-113 Kalff K.G., Maya-Pelzer P., Andexser A., Deuber H.J.
Prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in military and civilian flying personnel
Metabolic syndrome (MS) affects 20-30% of the middle-aged population in industrialized countries. It consists of a cluster of diseases including obesity, hypertension, dyslipoproteinaemia and glucose intolerance. The objective of the study was to determine the risk of developing MS in pilots, with possible consequences for aeromedical screening. Data on approximately 10,000 military and civilian pilots were obtained. It was possible to identify a group of military pilots with a higher risk of developing MS later on in life. This group was called "possible future metabolics" (PFM). Comparison of PFMs with the military pilot control group (MCG) and civilian pilots clearly showed that obesity, dyslipoproteinaemia and hypertension are the main single and/or combined risk factors. Data on military pilots showed a possible connection between thyroid dysfunction and the prevalence of MS risk factors.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 1999, Vol.70, No.12, p.1223-1226. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 01-208 Karter M.J., LeBlanc P.R.
Firefighter injuries
This article summarizes the findings of a survey of US fire departments conducted by the National Fire Protection Association. The 87,500 injuries sustained by firefighters while on duty in 1998 represented an increase of 2.5% over the previous year. Of the injured firefighters, 4,830 had to be hospitalized, an increase of 1.7% over 1997. Most injuries (49.2%) occurred at the scene of the fire, other causes being other on-duty activities (18.7%) and non-fire emergency activities (16%). On-site injuries decreased by 33.8% compared to 1988. Tables and charts present statistics of injuries requiring hospitalization and according to the year, nature of injury, type of duty, cause of injury, size of community protected and region of the country. Data on vehicle accidents and on the number of fires are also given.
NFPA Journal, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.93, No.6, p.46-51. Illus.

CIS 00-1427 Preventing injuries and deaths of fire fighters due to structural collapse
This booklet describes the steps that fire departments need to take in order to minimize the risk of injury and death to fire fighters when fighting fires involving large building structures. It includes current U.S. regulations with respect to respirators, the positioning of properly trained fire fighters outside the immediately dangerous zone, the constant accounting for the interior team by the commander, and the readiness to provide rapid rescue for the interior team. Several cases of fire fighter fatalities caused by structural collapse are described, along with the lessons to be drawn from these occurrences.
Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226, USA, 1999. 11p. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 00-1106 Grau T.
Respirators for extended time use
Langzeitatemschutzgerät [in German]
A fire requiring 60 minutes to be put out by fire fighters is used as an example to illustrate the advantages of the use of regenerative chemical oxygen versus compressed air respirators. The latter provides breathing for only 20 minutes, hence three groups of firefighters equipped with this type of respirator are needed in a 60-minute duty call. A switch to the regenerative chemical oxygen respirators would reduce the number of firefighters and fire engines required on the scene. A survey of 20 fire services in Germany with a total of 4,600 firefighters has revealed a need for respirators that provide more time on the scene. According to this survey, approximately 60% of all fires require the presence of firefighters during 15 to 30 minutes, and 5% of the fires require more than 60 minutes of presence.
Brandschutz, Oct. 1999, Vol.53, No.10, p.858-861. Illus. 3 ref.

CIS 00-1065 Löfstedt H., Seldén A., Storéus L., Bodin L.
Blood lead in Swedish police officers
Shooting with lead-containing ammunition in firing ranges is a well-known source of lead exposure in adults, and police officers may be at risk of lead intoxication. Swedish police officers considered as the most active shooters on and/or off duty responded to a questionnaire about health, lifestyle, shooting habits and potential lead exposure. Blood samples were collected and analysed for PbB and a multivariate regression analysis was performed. The mean PbB in male officers was 0.24µmol/L, and in female officers it was even lower (0.18µmol/L). For both sexes combined, a positive correlation of PbB with the number of bullets annually fired both on and off duty was observed and this finding remained in a multiple regression analysis including age, smoking habits and latency from last shooting exercise. Occupational and recreational lead exposure from firing ranges still seems to be a source of lead exposure in Swedish police officers, but it no longer appears to he a health risk. Lead-free ammunition and well-ventilated indoor firing ranges may have been decisive for this encouraging finding.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1999, Vol.35, No.5, p.519-522. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 00-1012 Ide C.
The value of "the medical"
Each year Strathclyde Fire Brigade (in Scotland) recruits between 70 and 110 new firefighters. In addition to an exhaustive selection procedure, the brigade puts potential recruits through a standard medical examination, but the usefulness of such exams has been questioned. The medical adviser to the Strathclyde Fire Brigade found that an analysis of the statistics allowed considerable pruning of the medical exam, and of the brigade's costs, while retaining the effectiveness of the examination.
Safety and Health Practitioner, Oct. 1999, Vol.17, No.10, p.30-33. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 00-894 Engel C.C., Ursano R., Magruder C., Tartaglione R., Jing Z., Labbate L.A., Debakey S.
Psychological conditions diagnosed among veterans seeking Department of Defense care for Gulf War-related health concerns
The Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation Program is a US military programme that provides a voluntary, clinically oriented evaluation for Gulf War health concerns. Administrative data are presented on psychological conditions (as coded using the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision) from the first year of the programme. The most commonly diagnosed psychological conditions were medically unexplained physical-symptom syndromes; depression and anxiety, including post-traumatic stress disorder; and alcohol abuse or dependence. Psychological conditions were significantly related to a higher number of workdays lost, and the 19% of veterans with a primary diagnosis of a psychological condition reported 28% of the lost workdays among veterans who participated. Stressful Gulf War experiences were weakly but significantly related to psychological conditions. It is concluded that among Gulf War veterans seeking evaluation for Gulf War-related health concerns, psychological conditions are common and are associated with important occupational morbidity.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1999, Vol.41, No.5, p.384-392. Illus. 33 ref.

CIS 00-519 Fink J.M., Wagner J.P., Congleton J.J., Rock J.C.
Microwave emissions from police radar
This study evaluated police officers' exposures to microwaves emitted by traffic radar units. Exposure measurements were taken at approximated ocular and testicular levels of officers seated in patrol vehicles. Seventeen different models, encompassing 4 frequency bands and 3 antenna configurations, were included. Of the 812 measurements taken at the officers' seated ocular and testicular positions, none exceeded 0.04mW/cm²; the highest of these (0.034mW/cm²) was less than 1% of the most conservative current safety standards. Results of this study indicate that police officer exposure to microwave radiation is apparently minimal. Because of uncertainty in the medical and scientific communities concerning non-ionizing radiation, a policy of prudent avoidance is recommended, including purchasing units with the lowest published maximum power densities, purchasing dash/rear deck-mounted units with antennae mounted outside the patrol vehicle, and training police officers to use the "stand-by" mode when not actually using radar.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.60, No.6, p.770-776. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 00-581 Feuerstein M., Berkowitz S.M., Huang G.D.
Predictors of occupational low back disability: Implications for secondary prevention
The present case-control study identified the relative contribution of demographic, physical demand, physical fitness as well as occupational and individual psychosocial variables to back-related work disability in the US Army. Soldiers diagnosed with a lumbosacral strain and medically discharged from the Army (n=174) were compared with non-disabled controls (n=173). Data were obtained from the US Army Health Risk Appraisal (HRA). For cases, these data predated disability determination by 1 to 3 years. For controls, the HRA was completed during the same time period. Significant predictors of back disability were: age, lower rank, infrequent aerobic exercise, higher work stress, worries and lower social support.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 1999, Vol.41, No.12, p.1024-1031. 58 ref.

CIS 00-590 Leonard R., Alison L.
Critical incident stress debriefing and its effects on coping strategies and anger in a sample of Australian police officers involved in shooting incidents
Situation appraisals and coping behaviours, symptom outcomes and expectations of police officers involved in shooting incidents were analysed in two groups of 30 police officers each, one of which received and the other did not receive a Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD). The CISD appeared to lead to reduction in anger levels and greater use of some specific adaptive coping strategies, but closer analysis revealed that factors such as prior negative life experiences could be more important. The opportunity for a CISD was found to be important; the non-debriefed felt overlooked and more angry. The quality of debriefings was sometimes regarded as insufficient.
Work and Stress, Apr.-June 1999, Vol.13, No.2, p.144-161. 40 ref.

CIS 00-290 Rotger Llinás D.
Psychological training of firefighters and other members of rescue groups. Coping with stress and first line psychological support to victims
La preparación psicológica del bombero y otros miembros de grupos de rescate. Su aceptación al estrés y los primeros auxilios psicológicos a las víctimas [in Spanish]
Topics: escape and rescue; fire services; neuropsychic stress; occupational psychology; physical training; stress factors.
Mapfre seguridad, 2nd Quarter 1999, Vol.19, No.74, p.23-33. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 00-265 Kales S.N., Aldrich J.M., Polyhronopoulos G.N., Leitao E.O., Artzerounian D., Gassert T.H., Hu H., Kelsey K.T., Sweet C., Christiani D.C.
Correlates of fitness for duty in hazardous materials firefighters
Correlates of fitness for duty were examined in a cohort of 340 U.S. firefighters, by comparing those who were determined as unfit (FAIL, 3 groups) for duty with those who were fit (FIT) for duty. All subjects were given an overall morbidity rating by a board certified internist. Comparisons on two surrogate measures of fitness, VO₂max and predicted coronary heart disease (CHD) risk, were also performed. A significant tendency towards worse results (e.g. higher blood pressure or lower spirometric function) was found among the three FAIL groups compared with the FIT group. Increasing morbidity was associated with higher age, lower spirometric function, lower predicted VO₂max, increasing cholesterol, greater body mass index, and higher predicted ten-year CHD risk.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Dec. 1999, Vol.36, No.6, p.618-629. Illus. 21ref.

CIS 00-207 Washburn A.E., LeBlanc P.R., Fahy R.F.
1998 Firefighter fatalities
Topics: analysis of accident causes; electric burns; electrical accidents; fatalities; fire services; frequency rates; mobile fire fighting equipment; myocardial infarction; physical fitness; shock following injury; statistical trends; statistics; USA.
NFPA Journal, July-Aug. 1999, Vol.93, No.4, p.54-66. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 99-1907 Sayer M.
Pushing the police force into a safe system of work?
Police safety advisers have to maintain a delicate balance between allowing officers to get on with their, often inherently dangerous, operational duties and ensuring their safety. The effects of new safety and health legislation in the U.K. which brings police officers in line with civilian support staff are investigated. Topics: dangerous work; hazard evaluation; legislation; personal protective equipment; police forces; safety and health organization; safety consciousness; United Kingdom.
Safety and Health Practitioner, June 1999, Vol.17, No.6, p.20-22. Illus.

CIS 99-1639 Hayes A.
Safety reins
Brief comments on a joint British-American symposium held in Chester, United Kingdom, in October 1998 on major issues of concern to the fire-fighting service and the future of fire safety. Topics: conference; fire hazards; fire prevention; fire protection; fire services; future trends; United Kingdom; USA.
Fire Prevention, Mar. 1999, No.318, p.16-17. Illus.

CIS 99-1655 King R.B., Saliba A J., Brock J.R.
A comprehensive noise survey of the S-70A-9 Black Hawk helicopter
At-ear noise levels were measured at four positions in the cabin of the Sikorsky S-70A-9 Black Hawk helicopter under various flight conditions and at 13 positions outside the helicopter under various ground running conditions using the Head Acoustic Measurement System. The attenuation properties of the hearing protection devices (HPDs) normally worn by aircrews and by maintenance crews (the ALPHA helmet and the Roanwell MX-2507 Communications headset) were also assessed. At-ear sound pressure levels that would be experienced by personnel wearing their normal HPDs were determined at the positions they would occupy in and around the aircraft. Results indicate that HPDs do not provide adequate hearing protection to meet current hearing conservation levels of 85 dB(A) for an 8h day. Topics: acoustic helmets; acoustic vibration; defence services; exposure evaluation; hearing protection; helicopters; noise dosimetry; noise level; noise measurement; sound frequency.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1999, Vol.70, No.2, p.107-116. Illus. 18 ref.

1998

CIS 01-111 Allery J.P., Telmon N., Lefebvre V., Rougé D.
Survey of occupational health in French prisons
La surveillance de la santé au travail en milieu carcéral [in French]
The French prison administration is increasingly developing work in prisons in an attempt to improve the eventual social integration of prisoners. The type of health care proposed to prisoners is oriented to the prevention and treatment of infectious and psychiatric diseases. Because of the prisoners' particular legal status, normal workers' rights do not apply to them and their diseases cannot be easily attributed to working conditions. The main objectives of this article were to define the legal status of prisoners, their medical rights and to propose a more appropriate medical follow-up for those considered as workers.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Oct. 1998, Vol.59, No.6, p.401-404.

CIS 00-1479 Ponnelle S., Vaxevanoglou X.
Coping with daily stress: Firefighters in emergency situations
Le stress au quotidien: les sapeurs-pompiers en intervention [in French]
Topics: emotivity; fire fighting; fire services; France; mental stress; neuropsychic stress; questionnaire survey; stress factors.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, May 1998, Vol.59, No.3, p.190-199. 22 ref.

CIS 00-286 Tempel J.
Occupational life-time of fire fighters
Lebensarbeitszeit der Feuerwehrleute [in German]
The average life expectancy of professional fire fighters in Munich in 1997 was 65.4 years, far lower than the average life expectancy of 72.77 years of the male population in Germany in 1996. The causes for the lower life expectancy include continued night work throughout the years of active employment and multiple stress factors, such as the manipulation of heavy equipment, life-threatening duties, being injured at work, witnessing the death of a colleague or a child, understaffing, and increasing medical ambulance duties. Professional fire fighters above age 55 have limited ability to cope with requirements, and those above 60 no longer have the ability. The retirement age should be 55, rather than 61 as planned under current discussions on the extension of working life in Germany.
Gewerkschaft öffentliche Dienste, Transport und Verkehr, Abteilung Feuerwehr, Theodor-Heuss-Strasse 2, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany, Apr. 1998. 57p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 99-1408 Royal Decree 1932/1998 of 11 Sep. 1998 applying Chapters III and V of Act 31/1995 of 8 Nov. 1995 on the control of occupational hazards to military centres and establishments [Spain]
Real Decreto 1932/1998, de 11 de septiembre, de adaptación de los capítulos III y V de la Ley 31/1995, de 8 de noviembre, de prevención de riesgos laborales, al ámbito de los centros y establecimientos militares [España] [in Spanish]
For the Act of 8 November 1995 see CIS 95-1921. Topics: defence services; emergency organization; law; plant safety and health organization; responsibilities of employers; safety and health committees; Spain; workers participation.
Boletín Oficial del Estado, 18 Sep. 1998, No.224, p.31306-31309.

CIS 99-1029 Battevi N., Menoni O., Vimercati C.
The occurrence of musculoskeletal alterations in worker populations not exposed to repetitive tasks of the upper limbs
749 workers performing tasks not at risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limbs underwent a clinical examination using a standardized method. There was a very low prevalence of these diseases, particularly in the younger age range. The observed age-related increase in prevalence is in agreement with evidence in the literature and is confirmed as being an important confounding factor in these studies. It is recommended that even minimal prevalences detected in particular work environments should not be underestimated. Topics: age-linked differences; educational institutions; epicondylitis; epidemiologic study; frequency rates; musculoskeletal diseases; police forces; repetitive strain injury; sex-linked differences; tendinitis; upper extremity disorders.
Ergonomics, Sep. 1998, Vol.41, No.9, p.1340-1346. 4 ref.

< previous | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 ...9 | next >