Air transportation - 364 entries found

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2005

CIS 12-0247 Pan J., Barbeau E.M., Levenstein C., Balbach E.D.
Smoke-free airlines and the role of organized labor: A case study
Labour unions play an important role in debates about smoke-free worksites. This study investigated the role of flight attendants and their unions in creating smoke-free air travel. Case study methodology was used to search tobacco industry documents and labour union periodicals and to interview key informants (people identified as having first-hand information and experience in the campaign to make airlines smoke free). Tobacco industry strategies against the establishment of smoke-free worksites failed in the case of airlines, largely because of the efforts of flight attendants and their unions. Other factors contributed to the failure but likely would have been insufficient to derail industry efforts without strong stands by the flight attendants. This case illustrates the potential for successful partnerships between unions and tobacco control policy advocates when developing smoke-free worksite policies.
American Journal of Public Health, Mar. 2005, Vol.95, No.3, p.398-403. 40 ref.
Smoke-free_airlines_[INTERNET_FREE_ACCESS] [in English]

CIS 06-1401 Winder C., van Netten C.
Aviation air quality
Special issue on air quality in aviation. Contents: review of papers presented at a conference on protection against contaminated air held in London in 2005; political aspects of aircraft safety and health in the United Kingdom; organophosphorus ester-induced chronic neurotoxicity; assessment of symptoms of aircrew exposed to fumes; lung injury following hydrocarbon inhalation among the aircrew; clinical evaluation of flight attendants after exposure to fumes in cabin air; aircraft air quality incidents; occupational health research in aviation; proposals for improvement.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Oct. 2005, Vol.21, No.5, p.379-383, 397-477. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 06-958 Grabowski J.G., Baker S.P., Li G.
Ground crew injuries and fatalities in U.S. commercial aviation, 1983-2004
This study examined airport ground crew injuries and fatalities involving aircraft of commuter air carriers and major airlines. Investigation reports for all ground crew injuries that occurred at U.S. airports between 1983 and 2004 were obtained from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and analysed to describe the immediate cause and pattern of the accidents. During the 22-year study period, the NTSB recorded 80 ground crew accidents involving landing, taxiing, or standing aircraft, yielding an overall rate of 0.47 ground crew related accidents per million aircraft departures. These accidents resulted in injuries to 98 ground crewmembers, including 21 fatalities. Two-thirds of the accidents took place as the aircraft was departing. Vehicular collisions with an aircraft made up 43% of accidents, 34% were caused by moving aircraft equipment such as propellers or nose gear and 11 % resulted from jet blasts or fires.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Nov 2005, Vol.76, No.11, p.1007-1011. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 06-993 Shorrock S.T.
Errors of memory in air traffic control
Memory is a critical factor in determining the level of air traffic controller's situation awareness. The aim of this research was to investigate the types of memory errors that occur in air traffic control. Data were gathered from interviews with 28 United Kingdom air traffic controllers and from a review of incidents involving loss of separation between aircraft. The data resulted in a set of classifications, which were used to develop a technique for the retrospective and predictive analysis of cognitive error in air traffic control. The results are discussed in terms of theory and empirical research. The potential effects of new technology and future automation on the types of errors reported in this study are considered.
Safety Science, Oct. 2005, Vol.43, No.8, p.571-588. 49 ref.

CIS 06-736 Wright N., Powell D., McGown A., Broadbent E., Loft P.
Avoiding involuntary sleep during civil air operations: Validation of a wrist-worn alertness device
This study evaluated the effectiveness of an alertness device based on wrist inactivity to detect the onset of sleep among airline pilots during flight. The device was worn by 21 pilots during a long (9h) flight. The presence of sleepiness and sleep was determined by means of electroencephalogram (EEG) and electrooculogram (EOG) recordings during the entire flight. The alertness device was found to be an effective method for preventing accidental sleep.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Sep. 2005, Vol.76, No.9, p.847-856. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 06-697 Bartlett D.T., Bottollier-Depois J.F.
Protecting aircraft crew from cosmic radiation
Aircraft crew are exposed to elevated levels of cosmic radiation. Following recommendations of the International Commission for Radiation Protection (ICRP), the European Union introduced Council Directive 96/29/EURATOM, which requires that account be taken of the exposure of aircrew liable to receive more than 1 millisievert (mSv) per year. The Directive has already been incorporated into the laws of member states as well as into the safety standards and procedures of the European Air Safety Agency. This article describes the development of an international standard for harmonizing methods for measuring the exposure of aircraft crew to cosmic radiation.
ISO Focus, May 2005, Vol.2, No.5, p.34-36. Illus. 3 ref.

CIS 06-350 Kaufman L.R., LeMasters G.K., Olsen D.M., Succop P.
Effects of concurrent noise and jet fuel exposure on hearing loss
This study examined the effects of occupational exposure to jet fuel on hearing among ground workers at a U.S air force base. Noise-exposed subjects, with or without jet fuel exposure, underwent hearing tests. Data on work histories, recreational exposures, protective equipment, medical histories, alcohol, smoking, and demographics were collected by questionnaire. Jet fuel, solvent and noise exposure data were collected from occupational hygiene records. Fuel concentrations were less than 34% of the OSHA threshold limit values. Subjects with three years of jet fuel exposure had a 70% increase in adjusted odds of hearing loss (OR=1.7) and the odds increased to 2.41 for 12 years of noise and fuel exposure. These findings suggest that jet fuel has a toxic effect on the auditory system.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2005, Vol.47, No.3, p.212-218. 42 ref.

CIS 06-329 Yeung S.S.M., Yu I.T.S., Hui K.Y.L.
World at work: Aircraft cabin cleaning
This article describes the occupational health aspects of aircraft cabin cleaning at Hong Kong airport, where the total number of workers employed by the three cleaning contractors is around 1200. This occupation involves specific hazards due in particular to poor ergonomics, the lack of space and tight working schedules. Topics addressed: job tasks; occupational hazards (noise, musculoskeletal disorders, cleaning agents, shift work); measures to protect workers (ergonomic tools, maintenance of equipment, medical supervision).
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.62, No.1, p.58-60. Illus. 1 ref.

CIS 06-440 How offshore helicopter travel is regulated
This leaflet describes the functions of the Health and Safety Executive and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the UK with respect to helicopter safety, and outlines the responsibilities of helicopter operators, flight crews and installation operators. Relevant legislation is also outlined. It replaces the 1996 leaflet on the same subject (CIS 97-654).
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, rev.ed., 2005. 8p. Illus.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg219.pdf [in English]

CIS 06-495 Gaur D.
Human factors analysis and classification system applied to civil aircraft accidents in India
This study was conducted to assess the practicability of applying the of Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) to civil aircraft accidents in India on the basis of existing investigation reports. Accident investigation reports for the period 1990-99 were scrutinized. In all, 83 accidents occurred during this period, of which 48 accident reports were evaluated in this study. One or more human factors contributed to 37 of the 48 accidents. The commonest factor was "skill based errors" followed by "decision errors". Violations of laid down rules were contributory in 16 cases. Preconditions for unsafe acts were seen in 23 of the 48 cases. "Organizational influences" contributed to a fairly large number of accidents (52.1%). These results are consistent with larger studies of accidents in the United States.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, May 2005, Vol.76, No.5, p.501-505. 7 ref.

CIS 06-308 Klokker M., Vesterhauge S.
Perilymphatic fistula in cabin attendants: An incapacitating consequence of flying with common cold
A perilymphatic fistula (PLF) is an abnormal communication between the inner ear and the middle ear that leaks perilymph. It has also been described in connection with various activities including flying. The symptoms are uncharacteristic vertigo and, in some cases, hearing impairment and tinnitus. This study describes four cases of PLF during a period of six months in a major Scandinavian airline employing approximately 3000 cabin attendants (CAs). None of the cases was diagnosed at the primary health care level. All were referred to the aviation medical centre for investigation. The PLF diagnosis was based on the case history, platform pressure test (a fistula test), and other vestibular tests. Only one CA has been able to return to flying duties. The article emphasizes the risk of flying with poor middle ear equalization and the necessity of reminding airline crews never to fly with a common cold.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.76, No.1, p.66-68. 18 ref.

CIS 04-583 Glazner J., Bondy J., Lezotte D.C., Lipscomb H., Guarini K.
Factors contributing to construction injury at Denver International Airport
In this study of injuries during the construction of Denver International Airport, over 4000 injury reports were linked with a workers' compensation (WC) database. Patterns of contributing factors varied according to injury mechanism and type of work. Environmental factors contributed more than any other factor to slip/trip injuries, and building materials contributed to more than 40% of injuries to workers in carpentry, concrete construction, glass installation and roofing. Rates at which factors contributed to injury also varied among types of work: environmental factors contributed at relatively high rates to injuries in glass installation, metal/steel installation and iron/steel erection ≥2 stories, and victim factors contributed at high rates to conduit construction and metal/steel installation injuries. The cost of workers' compensation varied widely, ranging from USD 0.53 to USD 3.08 per 100 USD of payroll.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Jan. 2005, Vol.47, No.1, p.27-36. 21 ref.

2004

CIS 06-491 Krulak D.C.
Human factors in maintenance: Impact on aircraft mishap frequency and severity
This study aimed to demonstrate that certain specific maintenance-related human factors are significantly correlated with both mishap frequency and severity in aviation. Using information from the Maintenance Error Information Management System (MEIMS), 1,016 aircraft mishaps caused by human factors in maintenance were examined. Frequency analysis was used to determine the most common human factors seen in aircraft mishaps. Logistic regression techniques were used to describe the relationship between mishap severity and human factors. Inadequate supervision, attention or memory errors, and judgment or decision errors were the factors found most often in aircraft mishaps. It was concluded that emphasis on training and education might reduce the overall number of mishaps, while concentrating resources on design, adaptability, flexibility, lighting and workplace layout might decrease the number of severe mishaps.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, May 2004, Vol.75, No.5, p.429-432. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 05-365 Serdar B., Egeghy P.P., Gibson R., Rappaport S.M.
Dose-dependent production of urinary naphthols among workers exposed to jet fuel (JP-8)
Jet propulsion fuel-8 (JP-8) is one of the largest sources of chemical exposures among Air Force personnel. Urinary naphthols have been suggested as biomarkers of exposure to JP-8. Multivariate linear regression models were applied to evaluate the effects of environmental and work-related factors on production of urinary naphthols among 323 Air Force personnel. Naphthalene exposure, smoking status, and their interaction, plus self-reported skin irritation explained about two-thirds of the variation in naphthol levels. The exposure-smoking interaction was consistent with induction by smoking of one or more steps in the metabolism of naphthalene and naphthalene-1,2-oxide. A supralinear dose-response relationship was observed between urinary naphthols and naphthalene exposure.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Sep. 2004, Vol.46, No.3, p.234-244. Illus. 32 ref.

2003

CIS 11-0737 Williams C.
Sky service: The demands of emotional labour in the airline industry
This article draws on earlier literature on emotional work among flight attendants. Using a qualitative and quantitative study of nearly 3000 Australian flight attendants, it focuses on organizational and occupational safety and health variables, as well as sexual harassment and passenger abuse. The qualitative data indicate that emotional labour is both pleasurable and difficult at different times for the same individual. Gender is a key aspect, linking emotional work with sexual harassment. At the same time, the most significant predictors from the quantitative study of whether emotional work would be costly were organizational. Variables such as whether flight attendants felt valued by the company show that the airline management context is highly influential in the way in which emotional work is experienced. As a means of understanding the complex relations in this important and eroticized area of service work where flight attendants, airline crews, airline management and passengers have convergent and conflicting interests, the article also presents a new concept of "demanding publics", to refer to transgressions of acceptable boundaries of behaviour towards service workers.
Gender, work and organization, Nov. 2003, Vol.10, No.5, p.513-550. 59 ref.
Sky_service.pdf [in English]

CIS 06-1376 Rosskam E., Drewczynski A., Bertolini R.
International Labour Organization
Service on the ground: Occupational health of airport check-in workers
This survey of working conditions of airport check-in workers was carried out in three airports in Canada and Switzerland (two international and one regional). It examines occupational safety and health issues and the impact of current management practices and work organization on check-in workers' health. It is a high demand, low control activity and most workers are women. Hazards include musculoskeletal disorders due to awkward postures and handling baggage while operating a computer in a constrained space. Other hazards include violence, environmental conditions and uneven workload distribution. Various recommendations are made for improving working conditions in this sector.
International Transport Workers' Federation, ITF House, 49-60 Borough Road, London SE 1 1DR, United Kingdom, 2003. iv, 50p. Illus. 48 ref.
http://www.itfglobal.org/files/seealsodocs/ENG/1015/Rosskam.pdf [in English]

CIS 06-310 Linnersjö A., Hammar N., Dammström B.G., Johansson M., Eliasch H.
Cancer incidence in airline cabin crew: Experience from Sweden
Cancer incidence among Swedish cabin flight attendants (2324 women and 632 men) employed from 1957 to 1994 was determined during 1961-96 from the Swedish national cancer register and compared with that of the Swedish population. This nested case-control study involved all cancer cases diagnosed after 1979 together with four controls per case matched by gender, age and calendar year. The standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for all cancers were 1.01 for women and 1.16 for men. Both men and women had an increased incidence of malignant melanoma of the skin (SIR 2.18 and 3.66 respectively) and men of non-melanoma skin cancer (SIR 4.42). Female cabin attendants had a non-significant increase of breast cancer (SIR 1.30). No clear associations were found between length of employment and cancer incidence.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2003, Vol.60, No.11, p.810-814. 25 ref.

CIS 06-309 Rafnsson V., Sulem P., Tulinius H., Hrafnkelsson J.
Breast cancer in airline cabin attendants: A nested case-control study in Iceland
To investigate whether length of employment as a cabin attendant was related to breast cancer risk, a case-control study nested in a cohort of cabin attendants was carried out. A total of 35 breast cancer cases and 140 age matched controls selected from a cohort of 1532 female cabin attendants were included in the study. The odds ratio of breast cancer risk among cases was 5.24 for those who had five or more years of employment before 1971 compared with those with less than five years of employment before 1971, adjusted for age at first childbirth and length of employment from 1971 or later. These findings indicate that occupational factors may be an important cause of breast cancer among cabin attendants.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Nov. 2003, Vol.60, No.11, p.807-809. 14 ref.

CIS 06-109 Egeghy P.P., Hauf-Cabalo L., Gibson R., Rappaport S.M.
Benzene and naphthalene in air and breath as indicators of exposure to jet fuel
Benzene and naphthalene were measured in air and in the breath of 326 personnel in the US Air Force, who had been assigned a priori into low, moderate, and high exposure categories for JP-8jet fuel. In the moderate and high exposure categories, 5% and 15% of the benzene air concentrations, respectively, were above the 2002 threshold limit value (TLV) of 1.6 mg/m³. Multiple regression analyses of air and breath levels revealed prominent background sources of benzene exposure, including cigarette smoke. However, naphthalene exposure was not unduly influenced by sources other than JP-8. It is concluded that naphthalene in air and breath can serve as useful measures of exposure to JP-8 and uptake of fuel components in the body.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2003, Vol.60, No.12, p.969-976. Illus. 34 ref.

CIS 06-72 Whelan E.A., Lawson C.C., Grajewski B., Petersen M.R., Pinkerton L.E., Ward E.M., Schnorr T.M.
Prevalence of respiratory symptoms among female flight attendants and teachers
The purpose of this study was to analyse the prevalence of self-reported respiratory symptoms and illnesses among two populations largely confined to indoor environments, flight attendants (FAs) and schoolteachers. The prevalence of work related eye, nose, and throat symptoms, wheezing, physician diagnosed asthma, chest illness, and cold or flu were calculated and stratified by smoking status in 1824 FAs and 331 schoolteachers (all women). FAs and teachers were significantly more likely to report work related eye, nose and throat symptoms than were other working women. FAs were also significantly more likely than teachers and other working women to report chest illness during the prior three years. Both study groups were more likely to report five or more episodes of cold or flu in the past year than were other working women and both groups were more likely to report wheezing than other working women. FAs were less likely than teachers and other working women to report having been diagnosed with asthma.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2003, Vol.60, No.12, p.929-934. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 06-104 Armendariz A., Leith D., Boundy M., Goodman R., Smith L., Carlton G.
Sampling and analysis of aircraft engine cold start particles and demonstration of an electrostatic personal particle sampler
Aircraft engines emit aerosols during startup in extremely cold weather that can drift into areas occupied by ground crews. This study tested a personal sampler used to assess exposure to the aerosol particles. Area and personal samples were taken at two U.S. Air Force bases during the winter months. Small tube-and-wire electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) were mounted on a stationary stand positioned behind the engines to sample the exhaust. Other ESPs were worn by ground crews to sample breathing zone concentrations. In addition, an aerodynamic particle sizer (APS) was used to determine the size distribution of the particles. Samples collected with the ESP were solvent extracted and analyzed with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results showed that the aerosol consisted of up to 75mg/m³ of unburned jet fuel particles. The APS showed that nearly the entire particle mass was respirable, having median diameters less than 2µm. These tests demonstrated that the ESP could be used to assess exposure to the cold start particles.
AIHA Journal, Nov.-Dec. 2003, Vol.64, No.6, p.777-784. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 05-560 Michaelis S.
A survey of health symptoms in BALPA Boeing 757 pilots
A questionnaire on health symptoms was sent to 600 members of the British Airline Pilots Association, of whom 106 responded. The study focused on the effects of air contaminants in the aircraft. With regard to leaks of engine oil and hydraulic fluids into the aircraft, 93 reported that they had been involved in at least one such incident. The total number reported was 1,674, with all but seven occurring on one type of aircraft. Following exposure to the contaminated air, high rates of symptoms were reported including: irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; headaches, light-headedness and dizziness; fatigue, weakness and a decrease in performance; a general increase in feeling unwell; concentration difficulties and confusion; diarrhoea; nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal problems; numbness (head, limbs, lips, fingers); short-term memory impairment; joint pain/muscle weakness.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, June 2003, Vol.19, No.3, p.253-261. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 04-435 Küpper T., Steffgen J., Jansing P.
Cold exposure during helicopter rescue operations in the Western Alps
The study evaluates exposure to the cold of personnel involved in helicopter rescue operations in an alpine environment. Rescue operations over a period of 15 months in the Oberwallis region (Switzerland) were analysed with special regard to the weather conditions, the altitude of the rescue site and the duration of on-site rescue operation. Mean exposure as well as the worst-case situation (based on maximum wind speed) were calculated. The results were evaluated according to various models, standards and regulations for work in cold environments. Because of the limited time of exposure during the majority of the operations, the most important danger for rescue personnel is frostbite, although hypothermia cannot be excluded in cases of prolonged operations. Special advice to avoid the specific risks must be given to the crews and an examination by an occupational physician is recommended. Recommendations for adequate clothing are also given.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Jan. 2003, Vol.47, No.1, p.7-16. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 03-1697 Rosskam E., Drewczynski A., Bertolini R.
The insecurities of service: Airport check-in workers
This study examines the occupational health and safety issues of airport check-in work together with the impact of current management practices and work organization on workers' health. It was conducted in Canada and Switzerland at three airports equipped with workstations considered to be representative of airport designs worldwide. The study involved the collection of data by means of questionnaires, interviews and job observations, and the analysis of compensation records. High rates of musculoskeletal injury were observed, resulting from handling of baggage, awkward postures, and the prolonged work on computers in a constrained space. Other hazards include violence, work scheduling, environmental conditions, and uneven workload distribution. Several recommendations are made in view of improving working conditions for check-in workers.
ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 2003. x, 61p. Illus. 21 ref.
http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/ses/download/docs/airport.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-1256 Lambert S., Pineau A., Zylberberg J.L., Gunther-Martin E.
Flight attendants
L'hôtesse de l'air et le steward [in French]
Contents of this medical and occupational data sheet on the job of flight attendant: job characteristics; description of the activities (work in airports or in aircraft, equipment, job tasks, gestures and postures, work clothes (uniforms)); hazards and constraints (related to the environment, equipment, work schedules, physical and mental workloads); occupational health hazards (phlebitis, genital and urinary infections, osteoarticular disorders, neuropsychic effects, travel-related infectious diseases); preventive measures (collective, individual, first aid); French regulations; medical supervision.
Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2003, Vol.43, No.4, Insert. 2p.

CIS 03-1219 Marion J., Loïez V., Jaques M., Voisin A.
Study of the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in an aircraft engine manufacturing plant
Etude de prévalence sur les troubles musculosquelettiques (TMS) dans un atelier de fabrication de moteurs d'avion [in French]
The aim of this study was to highlight risk factors for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in an aircraft engine manufacturing plant. Groups of persons at risk appeared to be tool setters, welders and metal formers. Ergonomic job studies and analyses of body movements were combined with a questionnaire survey of 181 exposed and 187 non-exposed subjects. The questionnaire responses corroborate the initial hypothesis and job observations, the three groups singled out being indeed groups at risk of MSDs. The main risk factors are physical and mechanical, while psychosocial factors do not appear to be of key importance. The study shows that a rearrangement of the workstations with properly designed tools would enable reducing the risks of MSDs in this plant.
Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 2003, Vol.43, No.4, p.415-421. 13 ref.

CIS 03-1474 MacDonald L.A., Deddens J.A., Grajewski B.A., Whelan E.A., Hurrell J.J.
Job stress among female flight attendants
The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between job stressors and psychological distress and job dissatisfaction among female flight attendants. 73 flight attendants employed at two commercial airlines completed a detailed questionnaire. Standard questions and scale measures were used to assess job stressors, psychological distress and job dissatisfaction. The association between job stressors and these outcomes was evaluated using multiple regression analysis. Except for fatigue, overall levels of distress and job dissatisfaction indicators were moderate to low. However, certain specific job stressors were found to have a substantive effect on these outcomes, following adjustment for individual factors. Despite moderate-to-low levels of distress and dissatisfaction, targeted efforts to reduce these job stressors and to enhance social support should be important steps toward improving the well-being and satisfaction of flight attendants.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2003, Vol.45, No.7, p.703-714. 34 ref.

CIS 03-911 Evans A.W.
Health and Safety Executive
Transport fatal accidents and FN-curves: 1967-2001
This report presents transport fatal accident data and empirically based curves plotting the frequency of fatal accidents against the number for fatalities (FN-curves). The objectives were firstly to compare the frequencies and severities of fatal railway accidents with those of road and air transport, and secondly to present FN-curves showing the severities and frequencies of fatal main line train accidents, separately identifying those which are preventable by automatic train protection systems. Data for 1967-2001 on all United Kingdom transport fatal accidents having caused ten or more fatalities on all modes of transport are presented and analysed, together with all mainline train accidents having caused 20 or more fatalities in the fifteen countries of the European Union.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. iv, 30p. Illus. 17 ref. Price: GBP 10.00.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr073.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-681 Chaturvedi A.K., Smith D.R., Soper J.W., Canfield D.V., Whinnery J.E.
Characteristics and toxicological processing of postmortem pilot specimens from fatal civil aviation accidents
Autopsied biological samples from civil aviation accident pilot fatalities are submitted to the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) for toxicological evaluation. However, such evaluation is dependent on types and amounts of submitted samples, and obtaining suitable samples is governed by the nature of the accident. The characteristics of these samples and their toxicological processing have not been well documented in the literature. Therefore, the CAMI Toxicology Database was searched for these aspects. It was found that the toxicologically preferred samples of blood and urine were available in 78% and 56% of the cases, respectively. Other samples were also frequently available. Samples were primarily analyzed for combustion gases, alcohol and drugs. An effective quality control is maintained throughout the process. It is concluded that in the majority of the aviation accidents, sufficient amounts and types of biological samples were submitted for toxicological evaluation.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 2003, Vol.74, No.3, p.252-259. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 03-862 Rice G.M., Vacchiano C.A., Moore J.L., Anderson D.W.
Incidence of decompression sickness in hypoxia training with and without 30-min O₂ prebreathe
Naval aircrew are required to participate in hypoxia familiarization training. This training is considered high-risk due to the potential for barotrauma and decompression sickness (DCS). Prior analysis of the DCS in U.S. Navy hypobaric chambers revealed a significantly higher incidence among inside observers (IOs) than among students. In response to these reports, all IOs are required to de-nitrogenate by breathing 100% oxygen for 30min prior to altitude exposure. However, there have been no reports validating the efficacy of this measure. This study examined the incidence of altitude DCS during exposures to simulated altitudes of 25,000ft (25k) and 35,000ft (35k) in IOs and students, some who pre-breathed oxygen and some who did not. Results indicate that a 30-min pre-breathe prior to altitude exposure reduces the risk of DCS.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2003, Vol.74, No.1, p.56-61. Illus. 16 ref.

2002

CIS 03-1186 Vogt J., Kastner M.
Tinnitus among air traffic controllers: A clinical occupational physiology study
Tinnituserkrankungen bei Fluglotsen: Eine klinisch-arbeitspsychologische Studie [in German]
An increased incidence of tinnitus was observed during 1997 and 1998 among air traffic controllers in the region of Düsseldorf (Germany), for which it was not possible to determine the cause by physical or bacteriological examinations. Consequently, eight air traffic controllers with this disorder were subjected to further examinations. The frequency and intensity of the tinnitus were determined by audiometric testing. Arterial pressure was measured, and immunoglobulin A and electrolytes were determined in saliva samples. Interviews were conducted to collect data on possible primary disorders and job workload. The daily degree of discomfort resulting from the tinnitus was determined by means of a standardized questionnaire. The most important risk factor highlighted was the shift allocation system, according to which it was possible to be assigned to day and night shifts within a 24h span. The high workload during these shifts, both during the day and at night, certainly also contributed to the appearance of the disorder. A new system of shift allocation was introduced, together with self-management and stress programmes which, according to the air traffic controllers, have already provided relief from these disorders.
Zeitschrift für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie, 2002, Vol.46, No.1, p.35-44. Illus. 38 ref.

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 03-899 Grabowski J.G., Curriero F.C., Baker S.P., Li G.
Geographic patterns of pilot fatality rates in commuter and air taxi crashes
This study examines the geographic patterns of pilot fatality rates in commuter and air taxi operations. Accident data recorded by the National Transportation Safety Board were used to create a digital map of all crash sites in the continental United States between 1983 and 1998. Fatality rates in crashes were calculated and then interpolated to create a contoured map. Areas were then compared for pilot characteristics, airplane characteristics, and crash circumstance. Of the 1094 crashes studied, 25% resulted in a pilot fatality. A large geographic area with a pilot fatality rate of ≥36% extended through portions of Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois. A relatively low fatality rate (<15%) prevailed over an area extending from Texas to northwest Georgia. Crashes in high-rate areas were significantly more likely than crashes elsewhere to have occurred at night and during instrument flying conditions.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2002, Vol.73, No.10, p.1014-1020. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 03-636 Freiberger J.J., Denoble P.J., Pieper C.F., Uguccioni D.M., Pollock N.W., Vann R.D.
The relative risk of decompression sickness during and after air travel following diving
A retrospective review of three years of diving data was conducted to evaluate the relative risk of decompression sickness (DCS) from flying after diving. The intervals and the maximum depths in meters of seawater (msw) on the last day of diving were analysed from 627 recreational dive profiles. Injured divers (cases) and uninjured divers (controls) were compared using logistic regression to determine the association of DCS with time and depth while controlling for diver and dive profiles characteristics. The mean for cases and controls were 20.7h vs. 27.1h respectively for intervals and 22.5ms vs. 19msw respectively for maximum depth. Other factors considered included sex, weight, height, age and years of diving. Relative to flying over 28h after diving, the odds of DCS were 1.02 for 24-28h, 1.84 for 20-24h and 8.5 for less than 20h. Relative to a depth of less than 14.7msw, the odds of DCS were: 1.2 for 14.7-18.5 msw, 2.9 for 18.5-26 msw and 5.5 for more than 26 msw.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Oct. 2002, Vol.73, No.10, p.980-984. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 03-783 Zelnick S.D., Lischak M.W., Young D.G., Massa T.V.
Prevention of carbon monoxide exposure in general and recreational aviation
Carbon monoxide (CO) exposure poses a significant, although uncommon risk in aviation. Exposure is most common in single engine piston-driven aircraft where air is passed over the exhaust manifold to serve as cabin heat. Effective primary prevention of this exposure is the regular inspection and maintenance of aircraft exhaust systems, as required by law. For situations at special risk should exposure occur, and where there is concern for the public safety, installation of active warning devices for CO intrusion into cabins may constitute secondary prevention. However, further studies need to be performed to support FAA standards for pilot exposure to CO, for use in monitors alerting pilots to the possibility of exhaust gas intrusion into aircraft cabins.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.73, No.8, p.812-816. 32 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 03-234 Haldorsen T., Reitan J.B., Tveten U.
Aircraft accidents and other causes of death among Norwegian commercial pilots
In this study on pilot mortality, a cohort of 3707 male commercial pilots having valid licences between 1946 and 1994 was established from the files of the Norwegian Civil Aviation Administration. The observed number of deaths was compared with those expected, based on national rates. There were 342 deaths versus 362.8 expected, with a standardized mortality ratio (SMR) of 0.94. Aircraft accidents with 97 deaths had a major influence on total mortality and the SMR for all other causes was 0.68. The SMR for cancer was 0.89 and for circulatory diseases 0.53. Among pilots aged under 30, the SMR for total mortality was 3.52. For this age group, 38 of a total of 42 deaths were caused by aircraft accidents, of which almost half involved private aircraft. Due to aircraft accidents, young pilots have a higher mortality rate than the general population. However, other harmful effects were not found, and pilots of all ages have a better life expectancy than the general population.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, June 2002, Vol.73, No.6, p.587-592. 16 ref.

CIS 03-399 Pilmanis A.A., Webb J.T., Kannan N., Balldin U.
The effect of repeated altitude exposures on the incidence of decompression sickness
Repeated hypobaric exposures in a single day occurring during parachute training, hypobaric chamber training, unpressurized flight and extravehicular space activity can cause decompression sickness (DCS). To test the hypothesis that short exposures with and without ground intervals would result in a lower incidence of DCS than a single exposure of equal duration, 32 subjects were exposed to three different hypobaric exposures: a single 2h continuous exposure (condition A, control); four 30min exposures but no ground interval between the exposures (condition B); four 30min exposures and a 60min period of ground interval between exposures (condition C). All exposures were to a simulated altitude of 7500m with 100% oxygen breathing. Subjects were examined for symptoms of DCS and precordial venous gas emboli (VGE). Results indicate that repeated simulated altitude exposures to 7500m significantly reduce DCS and VGE incidence compared with a single continuous exposure of equivalent duration.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, June 2002, Vol.73, No.6, p.525-531. Illus. 28 ref.

CIS 03-199 Winder C., Fonteyn P., Balquet J.C.
Aerotoxic syndrome: A descriptive epidemiological survey of aircrew exposed to in-cabin airborne contaminants
The term "aerotoxic syndrome" was proposed in 1999 to describe the association of symptoms observed among flight crew and cabin crew exposed to hydraulic fluid or engine oil vapours or mists. A descriptive epidemiological study was conducted to investigate these symptoms among aircrew through a mailed questionnaire. Most of the respondents (88%) reported that symptoms occurred after exposure to engine oil or hydraulic fluid leaks which caused odours and/or visible contamination in the cabin. Invariably, aircrew directly attributed their symptoms to exposure to in-cabin airborne contaminants. A comparison between 18 respondents from the United States and the 50 Australian respondents shows significant similarities in reported symptoms. There was sufficient commonality in reported symptoms to conclude a symptom basis for aerotoxic syndrome.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Aug. 2002, Vol.18, No.4, p.321-338. Illus. 39 ref.

CIS 02-1967 Takahashi M., Nakata A., Arito H.
Disturbed sleep-wake patterns during and after short-term international travel among academics attending conferences
To examine variations in sleep and wakefulness associated with international travel, ten academics in Japan were studied while traveling abroad to participate in conferences. Destinations included the USA and Canada to the east (8 to 11h time difference; mean stay of 6.8 days) and Europe to the west (7 to 8h time difference; mean stay of 6.0 days). For eastward-travelling subjects, the total sleep time was shorter and the mean activity during sleep was greater at the destinations than before departure. These sleep disruptions persisted until the second day after the subjects had returned home. No significant disruptions in the main sleep were found in westward travellers, although these subjects took a longer nap immediately after their return. The beginning and end of sleep occurred earlier until the second day after the subjects had returned from eastward trips, but occurred later until the fifth day after return from westward trips. These findings suggest that strategies are needed to facilitate recovery from disturbed sleep wake patterns at home after travel.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2002, Vol.75, No.6, p.435-440. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 02-1958 Neri D.F., Oyung R.L., Colletti L.M., Mallis M.M., Tam P.Y., Dinges D.F.
Controlled breaks as a fatigue countermeasure on the flight deck
A major challenge for flight crews is the need to maintain vigilance during long, highly automated nighttime flights. A six-hour uneventful nighttime flight in a flight simulator was flown by 14 two-man crews. The 14 subjects in the treatment group received five short breaks spaced hourly during cruise; the 14 subjects in the control group received one break in the middle of cruise. During the latter part of the night, the treatment group showed significant reductions for 15min post-break in slow eye movements, theta-band activity and unintended sleep episodes compared with the control group. The treatment group reported significantly greater subjective alertness for up to 25min post-break, with strongest effects near the time of the circadian trough. The findings show the potential usefulness of short-duration breaks as an in-flight fatigue countermeasure.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, July 2002, Vol.73, No.7, p.654-664. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 02-1474 Gagné I., Turcotte V.
Helicopter assembly: High on the wire
L'assemblage d'hélicoptères - Un travail de haute voltige [in French]
This article presents a project aimed at reducing musculoskeletal disease risk factors among assembly workers in a helicopter assembly plant in Canada. Contents: description of the plant; methods used in the study (questionnaire distributed to the target group of 12 assembly workers, job studies); description of the tasks carried out by the assembly workers; posture analysis; tools used by the workers; analysis of the tasks; proposed modifications with respect to tools, workstation layout, time constraints, work organization and cognitive requirements.
Travail et santé, Mar. 2002, Vol.18, No.1, p.38-43. Illus. 4 réf.

CIS 02-906 Grajewski B., Waters M.A., Whelan E.A., Bloom T.F.
Radiation dose estimation for epidemiologic studies of flight attendants
NIOSH is currently conducting health studies of female flight attendants. Exposures of interest include cosmic radiation. However, the data needed to estimate cumulative radiation dose are not found in work histories. An algorithm was developed to generate the required input data for the Federal Aviation Administration's radiation estimation software from work histories, and an evaluation was made as to whether the effects of cumulative radiation dose could be distinguished analytically from effects of circadian rhythm disruption. Selection of a study population flying predominantly North-South flights can provide the necessary distinction between radiation and time zone crossing exposures. The method developed will be useful for exposure assessment in cabin crew studies with relatively short study periods, (e.g., reproductive health studies) for which limited fight history details are generally available.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Jan. 2002, Vol.41, No.1, p.27-37. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 02-982 Espino C.M., Sundstrom S.M., Frick H.L., Jacobs M., Peters M.
International business travel: Impact on families and travellers
To assess the impact of international business travel on travellers and their families, a questionnaire survey was conducted among spouses and staff of the World Bank. Half the spouse sample (n=533) and almost 75% of the staff sample (n=102) reported high or very high stress due to business travel. Female spouses, those with children, and younger spouses reported greater stress. The survey also allowed the gaining of further insight into how business travel affects families, and how families cope. Lengthy and frequent travel and frequent changes in travel dates affect many spouses and children (particularly young children) negatively and the strain on families contributes significantly to the stress staff feel about their travel. Policies or management practices that take into consideration family activities and give staff greater leeway in controlling and refusing travel may help relieve stress.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 2002, Vol.59, No.5, p.309-322. 20 ref.

2001

CIS 03-1721
Health and Safety Executive
Diving in benign conditions, and in pools, tanks, aquariums and helicopter underwater escape training
Diving at work is subject to the provisions of the Diving at Work Regulations 1997 (see CIS 97-1785). This information sheet deals with the application of these regulations where diving work is carried out in closed artificial environments. Contents: diving in benign conditions; diving in swimming pools; diving in tanks; diving in aquariums; diving in helicopter underwater escape training; equivalence of recreational diving qualifications.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2001. 2p. 7 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/dvis8.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-1357 Lim M.K.
Exposure of airline pilots and cabin crew to cosmic radiation during flight - what's the fuss?
After a survey of the physics of cosmic radiation (which is of the type of low-dose ionizing radiation) and of the regulatory framework, this review article examines the risk of exposure to such radiation by aircraft crew flying at high altitudes (>10,000m). It is estimated that pilots and cabin crew of long-range aircraft flying 1000 block-hours a year receive a cumulative radiation dose of 5-10mSv per year. The literature suggests that their increased risk of dying from cancer due to cosmic radiation is in the range of 0.1-5.0 per 1000, a small but not non-negligible risk when considering the general cancer mortality of 220 per 1000. The main experimental evidence for the actual damage caused by cosmic radiation is that of damage of the genetic repair mechanism in cells. Cohort studies of small samples of air crew have shown increased incidence of cancers of the breast, prostate and the skin (both melanoma and non-melanoma), as well as of leukaemia. The only practical preventive method is aircrew flight-time limitation (1000 hours per year on conventional aircraft is currently being practiced), as shielding is not feasible and flying at lower altitudes is very costly.
Annals of the Academy of Medicine - Singapore, Sep. 2001, Vol.30, No.5, p.494-498. 46 ref.

CIS 02-842 Winder C., Balouet J.C.
Aircrew exposure to chemicals in aircraft: Symptoms of irritation and toxicity
Materials that are used in the operation of aircraft may contain hazardous ingredients. Poorly controlled maintenance or operating procedures can produce unwanted exposures to crew and passengers through the contamination of aircraft cabin air. Occasionally, such exposures may induce symptoms of toxicity, such as short-term skin, eye, gastrointestinal, respiratory and nervous system effects, and long-term central nervous system and immunological effects. Symptoms from seven case studies are presented. These symptoms may be reversible following brief exposures, but longer-term problems are emerging following significant exposures. This has serious implications for safety and occupational health in the aviation sector.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Oct. 2001, Vol.17, No.5, p.471-483. 27 ref.

2000

CIS 09-940
Health and Safety Executive
The collapse of NATM tunnels at Heathrow Airport
This report presents the findings of the investigation into the tunnel collapses at Heathrow Airport in October 1994, during which many persons were put at serious risk and which resulted in significant commercial losses. It explains the new Austrian tunnelling method (NATM) and gives an account of the engineering failures in a complex construction project, and specifically, of the failures to identify hazards and manage risks.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 2000. vi, 110p. Illus. 15 ref. Price: GBP 13.50.

CIS 03-476 Gramopadhye A.K., Drury C.C.
Aviation maintenance
Human factors research in aviation has mainly concentrated on aircrew and air traffic control errors, but the increasing number of maintenance and inspection errors has seen the rise of human factors research in these areas as well. This special issue includes papers on human factors and ergonomics applied to aviation maintenance. Contents: review of human error in aviation maintenance and inspection; portable computer-based work-cards for aircraft inspection; human error aircraft ground damage incidents; Maintenance Resource Management (MRM); costs and benefits of the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) safety inspection system; human factors approach to training of maintenance workers; Maintenance Error Decision Aid (MEDA) process; accuracy of visual structural inspection of aircraft; computer-based training; system awareness in aircraft maintenance teams.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Aug. 2000, Vol.26, No.2, p.125-325 (whole issue). Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 02-1761 Richez J.P.
Avoiding falls from heights - Ballet of robots of the glazing of Roissy Charles-de-Gaulle
Prévention des chutes de hauteur - La danse des robots sur les vitrages de Roissy Charles-de-Gaulle [in French]
In order to limit work at heights, the Roissy Charles-de-Gaulle airport in Paris opted for a remotely-controlled system for the cleaning of glazing in the new passenger terminal. This allows human interventions on the roof to be limited to equipment repair and maintenance. The robotic cleaning system is described in this article.
Travail et sécurité, Sep. 2000, No.599, p.2-6. Illus.

CIS 02-1791 Pendergrass S.M., Krake A.M., Jaycox L.B.
Development of a versatile method for the detection of nicotine in air
Nicotine is present in environmental tobacco smoke and is used as a greenhouse insecticide. Exposure to nicotine can result in adverse health effects as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, tachycardia, hypertension, convulsions and cardiac arrhythmia. This paper describes the development of an improved sampling and analytical methodology for nicotine, capable of accommodating the wide spread of nicotine levels and sampling requirements necessary to evaluate exposures among diverse occupational groups such as casino workers, airline flight attendants or greenhouse employees. A XAD-4 sorbent tube was selected for the collection of airborne nicotine. Analytical methodology for the separation, identification and quantification of nicotine by gas chromatography followed by either flame ionization detection or by nitrogen and phosphorous detection is described. This new method was published in the NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods.
AIHA Journal, July-Aug. 2000, Vol.61, No.4, p.469-472. Illus. 9 ref.

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