Physical fitness programmes - 205 entries found

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1996

CIS 96-724 Arnetz B.B.
Techno-stress: A prospective psychophysiological study of the impact of a controlled stress-reduction program in advanced telecommunication systems design work
A group of advanced telecommunication systems design workers participated in one of three stress-reduction training programmes based on relaxation techniques. Psychophysiological assessments were carried out before and after the programme. Compared to a reference group, the intervention group showed a significant improvement with regard to circulating levels of the stress-sensitive hormone prolactin, an attenuation in mental strain, improvement in cardiovascular risk factors and a decrease in circulating thrombocytes. The type of programme chosen did not affect the results. While the programmes alleviated some of the stress in these workers, more attention should be paid to the design of healthy work environments.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 1996, Vol.38, No.1, p.53-65. Illus. 43 ref.

1995

CIS 97-1479 Otte M.
Understanding your VDU
Mieux connaître votre écran [in French]
Verstandig omgaan met beeldschermen [in Dutch]
This pamphlet describes the potential risk factors associated with working with visual display units (VDUs) (visual fatigue, muscular discomfort, radiation), and provides guidance on preventive measures: correct positioning of the screen and other equipment, design and positioning of desks and seating, lighting, work organization and relaxation exercises.
Association Nationale pour la Prevention des Accidents du Travail (ANPAT), rue Gachard 88, Boîte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, 1995. 20p. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 97-456 Ledesma de Miguel J., Marqués Marqués F.
Your back is yours - Take care of it!
Tu espalda es tuya - ¡Cuídala! [in Spanish]
Training booklet on the protection of the back. It covers: physiology of the back; origin and mechanisms of back pain; how to avoid back injury in the workplace; general recommendations; physical exercise for recovery and prevention; general therapeutical plan. In annex: medical questionnaires for the diagnosis and treatment of backache.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, c/Torrelaguna, 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, 1995. 55p. Illus. 30 ref.

CIS 96-2327 Prior A., Renner A.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz
Inventory of health promotion at work - with special attention paid to physical strain
Bilanzierung belastungsorientierter Gesundheitsförderung im Betrieb - unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der körperlichen Belastungen [in German]
A survey of the physical fitness programmes offered in German enterprises is given. As far as available, information is provided on the initiators, costs, sponsors and the success of the programmes. The majority of programmes offered at present aim to prevent back trouble. A general evaluation of the physical fitness programmes is presented. Experiences with setting up the fitness programmes are described.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1995. 183p. approx. 320 ref.

CIS 96-1613 Visual display units in the place of work
Training kit consisting of three booklets: 1 - Code of Practice (new edition of the 1993 publication abstracted as CIS 94-603), contents: introduction, compliance, health problems of VDU work, relationship between the Code and the relevant provisions of the Health and Safety in Employment Act (CIS 93-701), glossary, ISO 9241; 2 - Checklists for monitoring hazards of VDU work (work organization, VDU selection, hazard identification, evaluation of workplace visual conditions); 3 - Information booklet: promotion of workstation comfort (why we get discomfort, relaxation, body positions, getting comfortable at the workstation, workplace exercises, preventing visual and ocular discomfort, finger and wrist techniques for keyboard users), general advice (lighting, noise, thermal comfort, air quality, electromagnetic fields).
Occupational Safety and Health Service, Department of Labour, P.O. Box 3705, Wellington, New Zealand, 1995. Information kit (Code of Practice: 66p., illus, bibl.ref., index + Checklists: 11p. + Information booklet: 43p., illus.) Price: NZD 20.00 (Code of Practice only: NZD 10.00).

CIS 96-1514 Giorgi-Owaller L.
Prevention of cardiovascular hazards among firefighters by the implementation of an appropriate physical activity programme
Prévention du risque cardio-vasculaire chez des sapeurs-pompiers professionnels par la mise en place d'un programme d'activité physique adapté [in French]
Thesis. Respirometric measurements on 22 French firefighters gave values of maximal oxygen consumption comparable to values obtained in other studies, both for firefighters and for the general population. Five of the 22 (23%) did not reach the 33.5 mL/kg/min that has been proposed as a minimal criterion of capacity to perform safely the tasks required of a firefighter. A physical fitness programme involving running, weight-lifting, swimming, team sports and simulated rescue activities was devised by academic specialists but implemented by professional firefighters who were trained as monitors by the academic team. After four months, the programme achieved broad acceptance and sensitized the firefighters to the necessity of greater fitness, but the time was too short to have a perceptible effect on their physical condition.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 1995. ii, 143p. Illus. 44 ref.

CIS 96-688 Jarzuel Y., Hagau S.
Sale of tickets for shows - The success of a specialized team
La vente de billets de spectacles - La réussite d'une équipe de spécialistes [in French]
The purpose of this study was to analyze the work performed by ticket sellers in the entertainment industry in order to better understand the characteristics of the job and to find ways to reduce the increasingly heavy workload involved. Ticket selling is a complex job, requiring a thorough knowledge of constantly changing information about cultural, organizational and administrative matters. The emotional involvement of staff in the job is high, with actual selling taking up less time than the provision of advice and information and the performance of preparatory activities. Calls by telephone and MINITEL (French on-line service using the telephone network) contribute to the heavy workload by constant interruptions of regular work, particularly during rush periods. The increasing demands of this kind of work, in both quantitative and qualitative terms, tire the staff and reduce the quality of service they can provide.
Cahiers de médecine interprofessionnelle, 1995, No.4, p.469-480. Illus.

CIS 96-314 Pearson J., Hayford J., Royer W.
Comprehensive wellness for firefighters - Fitness and health guide for fire and rescue workers
Contents of this guide: the need for high levels of fitness for fire and rescue work; risk factors for heart disease; fitness assessment; physiology of the musculoskeletal system and stretching exercises to increase flexibility; aerobic exercises and cardiovascular fitness; strength training; nutrition; body composition and weight control; abuse of alcohol, drugs and tobacco; managing stress; maintaining wellness through lifestyle management.
Chapman & Hall, 2-6 Boundary Row, London SE1 8HN, United Kingdom, 1995. x, 358p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 29.95.

CIS 95-2300 Ward M.P., Milledge J.S., West J.B.
High altitude medicine and physiology
Contents of this manual: the human response to altitude; ventilatory response to hypoxia and carbon dioxide; lung diffusion; cardiovascular system; haematology; blood gas transport; peripheral tissues; exercise; limiting factors at extreme altitude; sleep; nutrition and intestinal function; the endocrine and renal systems; central nervous system; high-altitude populations; mountain sickness; high-altitude pulmonary oedema, cerebral oedema and retinal haemorrhage; vascular disorders; thermal balance and its regulation; reaction to cold; hypothermia; local cold injury; accidents, surgical emergencies and anaesthesia; skiing injuries and rescue in the mountains; heat injury and solar radiation; medical conditions at high altitude - leisure and commercial activities; fitness and performance in the mountains; practicalities of field studies.
Chapman & Hall, 2-6 Boundary Row, London SE1 8HN, United Kingdom, 2nd ed., 1995. xviii, 618p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 69.00.

CIS 95-1357 Hasselmann A., Kölmel F.
Occupational dermatoses among cleaning personnel
Berufsdermatosen des Reinigungspersonals [in German]
In the years between 1977 and 1992 the Dermatology Department of the University Hospital in Göttingen, Germany, recorded 64 cases of skin disease among cleaning personnel in institutions such as schools, old age homes, recreational centres, hospitals, etc. In 40 cases an allergic contact dermatitis and in 21 cases eczema was diagnosed. In patch tests nickel and formaldehyde were identified as the major allergens. Formaldehyde and other aldehydes were found in the cleaning agents and disinfectants used.
Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Umweltmedizin, Mar. 1995, Vol.30, No.3, p.106, 108-112, 117-118, 120. 30 ref.

1994

CIS 96-2336 Jensen I.B., Nygren Å., Lundin A.
Cognitive-behavioural treatment for workers with chronic spinal pain - A matched and controlled cohort study in Sweden
The aim of this study was to evaluate an ambulatory multimodal cognitive-behavioural treatment programme by assessing its positive and negative impact both physically and psychologically. A distinctive feature of the strategy was that the workplace supervisors of the employees were taught to reinforce the behavioural changes of employed patients. This strategy was also designed to augment supervisors' understanding of pain and to teach them how to reintegrate employees who had participated in a cognitive-behavioural programme of rehabilitation. All primary outcome variables assessed (absenteeism, disability, pain, and depression) showed clinically important and significant beneficial changes. However, the benefits were only among women in the study.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Mar. 1994, Vol.51, No.3, p.145-151. 15 ref.

CIS 96-2159 Liesivuori J., Kiviranta H., Laitinen J., Hesso A., Hämeilä M., Tornaeus J., Pfäffli P., Savolainen H.
Airborne aerosols in application of polyfluoro polymer-based ski waxes
During the heat-assisted application (160-190°C) of polyfluoro polymer-based ski waxes, the aerosol given off amounted to 4.26±2.80mg/m³ (±SD, N=5) in personal air samples and 3.97±2.09mg/m³ (±SD, N=5) in stationary samples. The major part (85%) of the aerosol was respirable. Inorganic fluoride was found only in trace amounts while the mass chromatographic analysis confirmed the presence of fluorine-containing aliphatic chains. It seems that the exposure to fluoro compounds is high enough to contribute to respiratory symptoms experienced by waxers. The work should be carried out under well ventilated fume cupboards of the waxers should wear respiratory protection during the active application of the waxes.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Dec. 1994, Vol.38, No.6, p.931-937. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 96-1281 How to prevent lumbago: Important points from "Guidelines on lumbago preventive measures in workplaces" - Text for industrial health education
Training manual on the prevention of back problems due to occupational factors. Contents: work and lumbago (anatomy, mechanisms, workplace factors, characteristics); improvement of working environments (temperature, lighting, floors, working spaces, equipment and layout, rest facilities); improvement of working methods (automation, work postures, work standards, manuals, clothing, tools, breaks); important points for various types of work (handling heavy objects, care facilities for severely handicapped children, excessive burden on the waist, extended driving); health management; exercise (general pre-work, specifically against lumbago); industrial health education. In annex: guidelines on the prevention of lumbago in the workplace (Labour Standards Bureau Notification No.547, 6 Sep. 1994); preventive measures by work type; explanation of the guidelines and the preventive methods; interview sheet for medical examinations for lumbago; information sheet on pre-work exercises.
Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association, 5-35-1 Shiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108 Japan, 1994. 89p. Illus.

CIS 95-1911 Corrigan B., Maitland G.D.
Musculoskeletal and sports injuries
This manual explains the causes of soft tissue lesions with emphasis on sporting injuries. Contents: types of pain in the limbs; direct, indirect and overuse sports injuries; soft tissue lesions and their management; characteristics and diagnosis of injuries to the shoulder, clavicular joints, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, lower leg, ankle joint, foot and temporomandibular joint. This information can be useful in the prevention of occupational accidents involving the musculoskeletal system.
Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., Linacre House, Jordan Hill, Oxford OX2 8DP, United Kingdom, 1994. v, 237p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 25.00.

CIS 94-2127 Aitken R.S.
Office safety. The case for active rest pauses
A number of studies have shown that users of display screen equipment undergo visual and muscular stress and fatigue. The provision of breaks and exercises have been shown to have benefits for both productivity and health in such workers. Recommendations are given for a suitable rest break system including micropauses, short and long pauses, workstation exercises and health and safety information.
Safety and Health Practitioner, May 1994, Vol.12, No.5, p.25-29. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 94-897 Björnstig U., Larsson T.J.
Persistent medical problems and permanent impairment: Injuries associated with work, vehicles, and sports
Among injuries treated in one year at the University Hospital in Umeå, Sweden, work- and sports-related incidents caused 16% each and vehicle-related accidents 12% of all injuries treated. The proportion of victims with permanent medical impairment was highest among vehicle- and work-related injuries (6%). 12% of the work-related injuries were claimed under some sort of insurance scheme. Pain was the most common persistent medical problem. Pain, together with serious brain and spinal injuries, is poorly defined in the impairment classification currently used by Swedish insurers to determine degree of permanent medical impairment; improved and clarified criteria are required.
Accident Analysis and Prevention, Feb. 1994, Vol.26, No.1, p.41-48. Illus. 28 ref.

1993

CIS 97-1039 Toivanen H., et al.
Impact of regular relaxation training on the cardiac autonomic nervous system of hospital cleaners and bank employees
The work-related strain of 50 female hospital cleaners and 48 female bank employees was recorded during a period of rationalization in the workplace and the effect of daily relaxation to help the workers cope was tested. The intervention period lasted six months. The relaxation method was brief and easily introduced as an alternative break in the workplace. Cardiac reflexes indicated that occupational stress (especially of a mental nature) caused the functioning of the autonomic nervous system to deteriorate. Regular deep relaxation normalized the function and improved the ability to cope.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Oct. 1993, Vol.19, No.5, p.319-325. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 95-2279 Riel K.A., Bernett P.
Dance-specific injuries and overuse syndrome
Tanz-typische Verletzungen und überlastungssyndrome [in German]
Deutsche Zeitschrift für Sportmedizin, 1993, Vol.44, No.7, p.284-286, 288-290. Illus. 23 ref. ###

CIS 94-1246 Aldana S.G., Jacobson B.H., Harris C.J., Kelley P.L.
Mobile work site health promotion programs can reduce selected employee health risks
This study examined the effect of participation in a mobile work site health promotion program (MWHPP) on selected cardiovascular risk indicators. Measures of blood pressure, cholesterol (total and total/high-density lipoprotein ratio), percent body fat, and submaximal fitness were taken at baseline, 6-, 12-, and 18-month intervals from 113 employed adults. Significant reductions were observed in all variables measured. Further analysis of the number of employees who went from high risk to low risk demonstrated a significantly reduced risk of hypercholesterolaemia, cholesterol total/high-density lipoprotein ratio, and obesity.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Sep. 1993, Vol.35, No.9, p.922-928. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 94-1081 Lynch W.D., Main D.S.
Frequency of exercise and dropouts in a work-site program - Correlates of 6-month activity patterns
Exercise professionals have little information concerning expected levels of exercise for new participants. This study examined the frequency of exercise of 949 employees during their first six months of membership in a work-site health promotion facility, using automated check-in data. Overall, the frequency of exercise declines, the proportion of frequent exercisers declines, and the proportion of employees who dropped out increased. Men exercised more frequently and were less likely to drop out than women. Younger employees exercised more frequently than did older employees. Employees at the middle salary level exercised more frequently than did employees at the lower or upper levels. The employee groups that started out with a lower frequency of exercise remained at a lower frequency throughout the six months. By their sixth month, women were 50% more likely to drop out and 50% less likely to exercise regularly than were men. These figures provide a basis for comparison with other programmes to document expected exercise behaviour.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Nov. 1993, Vol.35, No.11, p.1147-1151. Illus. 8 ref.

CIS 94-1092 Toivanen H., Helin P., Hänninen O.
Impact of regular relaxation training and psychosocial working factors on neck-shoulder tension and absenteeism in hospital cleaners
Occupational stress in hospital cleaners and the effect of relaxation training were studied by recording the electrical activity of the upper trapezius muscle at rest and during working conditions, at the beginning, middle, and end of a six-month follow-up period. Intercorrelations were found between the neck-shoulder tension, psychosocial factors, depression, and the absenteeism rate. Relaxation training diminished tension in the neck-shoulder region efficiently; nevertheless, the decrease in absenteeism might have been related mainly to the social support offered by the research project itself.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Nov. 1993, Vol.35, No.11, p.1123-1130. Illus. 50 ref.

CIS 94-567 Heirich M.A., Foote A., Erfurt J.C., Konopka B.
Work-site physical fitness programs - Comparing the impact of different program designs on cardiovascular risks
The relative impact of three different approaches to physical fitness at the worksite on cardiovascular risk reduction is examined. The three approaches tested were: (1) a staffed physical fitness facility; (2) one-to-one counselling with at-risk employees; and (3) a combination of one-to-one counselling with employees plus encouragement of peer support and exercise at work. A fourth site was used as a control site. The programme involving a physical fitness facility had little measurable impact on cardiovascular risks. Both the other programmes were more effective, with the combination of counselling and plant organization providing the best health outcomes in terms of frequency of exercise, adequacy of blood pressure control (among hypertensives), weight loss (among the overweight), and smoking cessation. These results indicate that systematic, ongoing outreach to enlist employees in various types of exercise programmes is more effective than the presence of fitness facilities without such outreach.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, May 1993, Vol.35, No.5, p.510-517. 14 ref.

CIS 94-397 Kerr J.H., Vos M.C.H.
Employee fitness programmes, absenteeism and general well-being
Increasingly, European organizations are developing employee fitness programmes (EFPs) on the assumption that doing so will improve the health, well-being and work performance of employees. Although rigorous evaluation is not common practice among these organizations, this study represents an attempt to evaluate the effectiveness of an EFP at the headquarters of the ING bank in Amsterdam. The study focused on possible changes in absenteeism, general well-being, self-confidence and perceived physical condition among EFP participants and on-participants over a 12-month period. Data were collected from 152 white-collar employees subdivided into four groups on the basis of participation or non-participation in the bank's EFP. The results indicated that taking part in an EFP could lead to a significant decrease in absenteeism amongst both regular and irregular participants. With respect to employee general well-being, scores on the factor 'work out' did not differ significantly among the four groups. No significant differences in self-confidence between the groups were obtained, but significant differences in perceived physical fitness were apparent.
Work and Stress, Apr.-June 1993, Vol.7, No.2, p.179-190. 36 ref.

CIS 94-396 De Geus E.J.C., Van Doornen L.J.P.
The effects of fitness training on the physiological stress response
Review of several well-controlled laboratory studies that have directly examined the effect of fitness training programmes on the physiological responses to a set of standardized stressors. It was generally expected that fitness training would enhance psychological stress resistance and thus mitigate the physiological response to stress. The results of most studies belie these expectations. Intensive training programmes of up to eight months do not change stress reactivity, even if the subjects participating in the study were in bad physical condition initially with high stress reactivity. The failure to find a training effect on the intensity of the stress reactions in laboratory studies does not rule out possible psychosocial effects of regular exercise on the frequency and duration of the stress reactions in real-life situations. Furthermore, although the dynamics of the physiological response to stress are not changed, there is a clear downward shift in the overall level of heart rate and blood pressure in stressful situations. Several possible mechanisms are suggested by which these training effects may help to deal with work stress without causing health problems.
Work and Stress, Apr.-June 1993, Vol.7, No.2, p.141-159. 66 ref.

CIS 94-395 Van Doornen L.J.P., De Geus E.J.C.
Stress, physical activity and coronary heart disease
Recent years have witnessed an increasing popularity of corporate fitness programmes. Regular physical activity and, in particular, high aerobic fitness are associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. Apart from its beneficial effects on resting levels of blood pressure and cholesterol, fitness is believed to reduce the impact of psychological stress. This hypothesis has been put to the test in 33 studies examining the physiological stress response of groups selected to differ in their fitness level. Although some evidence was found for a reduced response to stress in highly fit subjects, the effects were not very strong. During 54 confrontations with a stressful task, significantly lower heart rate reactions in highly fit subjects were seen in only nine tasks (17%). With nine out of 36 stressors (28%), fit subjects showed a lower diastolic blood pressure response. However, in combination with a frequently found reduction in basal levels, the high fit showed a consistently favourable cardiovascular profile under stress.
Work and Stress, Apr.-June 1993, Vol.7, No.2, p.121-139. 95 ref.

CIS 94-394 Long B.C., Flood K.R.
Coping with work stress: Psychological benefits of exercise
Although the health-enhancing effects of physical exercise have been well documented, less is known about how exercise benefits stressed employees psychologically. This article examines exercise as a coping response, and identifies changes in self-schemata (a person's underlying belief systems about him- or herself) as the means by which exercise affects coping resources. In addition, by drawing on schema theory and the exercise literature, the active components of an exercise programme and the individuals who might enhance their ability to cope with stress through such a programme are identified.
Work and Stress, Apr.-June 1993, Vol.7, No.2, p.109-119. 68 ref.

CIS 94-393 Kerr J.H.
Exercise, stress and health
The author of this editorial presents his view regarding employee exercise programmes. In recent years an apparently growing number of both public and private organizations in North America and somewhat later in Europe have implemented these programmes. Such employee health and fitness programmes improve worker morale, decrease absenteeism and increase productivity. However, even though improvements in physical fitness indices have been found among regular participants, few organizations have made an attempt to objectively evaluate tangible benefits of health and fitness programmes by using well-established scientific research methods. Different aspects of the implementation of these programmes are discussed.
Work and Stress, Apr.-June 1993, Vol.7, No.2, p.105-107. 1 ref.

1992

CIS 95-1284 Cardy C.
Training for personal safety at work
This manual provides guidance for employers on increasing staff awareness of the risk of violence at work and how to deal with it. Contents: defining violence and aggression; statistics on violence at work; employer and employee roles; identifying risks at work; developing policy and procedures; reporting violent incidents; helping and supporting victims; causes and management of tension (fear, anger, stress and relaxation); communication and assertiveness; good practice for different types and areas of work; coping with violence; non-verbal communication; recognizing and avoiding danger; guidelines for trainers; sample training programmes.
Gower Publishing Company Ltd., Gower House, Croft Road, Aldershot, Hants. GU11 3HR, United Kingdom, 1992. xii, 209p. 74 ref. Price: GBP 45.00.

CIS 95-364 Lee K., Swanson N., Sauter S., Wickstrom R., Waikar A., Mangum M.
A review of physical exercises recommended for VDT operators
An evaluation of 127 exercises recommended for the prevention of musculoskeletal discomfort among VDT operators is presented. In general, the prepared instructions were satisfactory and the exercises could be readily performed at the workstation. However, many were conspicuous and potentially embarrassing to perform or would significantly disrupt the work routine. A number posed potential safety hazards, exacerbated biomechanical stresses common to VDT work or were contraindicated for persons with certain health problems. Findings suggest a need for greater attention to both the practical and therapeutic aspects of such exercises.
Applied Ergonomics, Dec. 1992, Vol.23, No.6, p.387-408. Illus. 30 ref.

CIS 94-981 Gaertner M., Brunstein C., Busetto A.
Lung function and respiratory symptoms in paper industry workers exposed to soft paper tissue (bathroom tissue) dust
Fonction pulmonaire et symptômes respiratoires d'ouvriers papetiers exposés aux poussières de papier hygiénique doux (papier dit "à usage domestique") [in French]
In a paper mill manufacturing and processing soft paper tissue, 349 workers (76 controls and 273 operators exposed to paper dust) were investigated (medical examination, questionnaire survey, respiratory function tests). Exposed workers were divided into three groups according to their current exposure to dust: low (<1mg/m³), moderate (1-3mg/m³), heavy (>3mg/m³). Nasal irritation occurred more frequently at higher exposure levels. However, coughing, chronic bronchitis, asthma, dyspnoea and sinusitis showed no rate increase related to the degree of exposure. A slight decrease of the VC correlated with the length of exposure was noticed (after adjusting for age). A significant decrease of the VC (3.7%) was found in 48 subjects exposed to paper dust mixed with liquid paraffin aerosol. Smoking had a markedly adverse effect on lung function and constituted, together with regular sport activities, the two main confounding factors.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1992, Vol.53, No.7, p.639-644. 13 ref.

CIS 94-1082 Aptel M., Wild P., Boehm R., Bergaminelli M.
Effect of different work rhythms on the sleep, eating habits and non-occupational activities of shift workers
Incidence de différents rythmes de travail sur le sommeil, les repas et les activités extra-professionnelles de salariés postés [in French]
The effect of work rhythm on sleep, eating habits and extra-professional activities is still not known very well. This study presents the results of a survey carried out on 148 shift workers in a firm manufacturing plastic packages. It appears that work rhythm has little influence on the quality and duration of sleep or the number of meals taken. Moreover, distribution of extra-professional activities seems not to be influenced by the work rhythm either. However, factors like age, sex and other sociocultural variables have a greater influence on the individual experience of shift work.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1992, Vol.53, No.7, p.627-638. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 93-1742 Wigley R.D., Turner W.E.D., Blake B.L., Darby F.W., McInnes R., Harding P.
Occupational overuse syndrome - Treatment and rehabilitation: A practitioner's guide
Contents of this guide: definitions of occupational overuse syndrome (OOS), why it occurs and occupations affected; a broad management outline; general principles of diagnosis and management; treatment for localised conditions and for diffuse muscle conditions; workplace assessment; action when there is a poor response to medical management. Appendices include: risk factors for OOS; form for self-reporting of discomfort and pain; diagnostic tests; relaxation and postural instruction and sample workplace exercises; basic ergonomics.
Occupational Safety and Health Service, Department of Labour, P.O. Box 3705, Wellington, New Zealand, June 1992. 66p. Illus. 55 ref. Price: NZD 9.95.

CIS 92-2063 Kroemer K.H.E.
Personnel training for safer material handling
Personnel training is considered to be one of several ergonomic solutions for safer and more efficient manual materials handling. However, few scientifically reliable data exist to indicate the success of such training. Past training approaches and their results are reviewed, including training in lifting techniques, training of supervisors and managers, back injury prevention and fitness training. The appropriate content of training programmes is discussed along with evaluation of the effectiveness of training, instruction style, customised training and ethical considerations.
Ergonomics, Sep. 1992, Vol.35, No.9, p.1119-1134. 95 ref.

CIS 92-1851 MAPAO back care exercise program
Ten exercises whose purpose is to increase the strength of stomach muscles and stretch out muscles supporting the lower back.
Mines Accident Prevention Association Ontario, P.O. Box 1468, 147 McIntyre Street West, North Bay, Ontario P1B 8K6, Canada, 1992. 13p. Illus.

CIS 92-1734 Stoffelmayr B.E., Mavis B.E., Stachnik T., Robison J., Rogers M., VanHuss W., Carlson J.
A program model to enhance adherence in work-site-based fitness programs
A programme model designed to achieve high adherence, a major problem for work-site exercise/fitness programmes, is described. The model is a six-month programme consisting of 15 1-hour information meetings, with participants exercising on their own time four times per week. The procedures that were used to enhance adherence committed individuals to a defined number of exercises, to participate in group competition and to undergo monitoring. In addition, they relied on social support for further reinforcement of adherence. This programme was run nine times. 159 university employees took part in the initial test with a dropout rate of 9% (15 persons). The average adherence rate for non-dropouts was 98%, which is higher than rates usually reported in the literature. Adherence was defined as exercising four times a week.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1992, Vol.34, No.2, p.156-161. 25 ref.

1991

CIS 94-714 Baxter P.J.
Toxic marine and freshwater algae: An occupational hazard?
Editorial on the need for an investigation of hazards due to exposure (skin contact, ingestion) to toxic marine and freshwater algae. Occupations at risk include teachers of water sports, cleaners and maintainers of canals and rivers, water quality testers, park wardens and fish farmers.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 1991, Vol.48, No.8, p.505-506. 14 ref.

CIS 93-439 Don't strain yourself
Measures to prevent muscle and joint sprains are described in this training brochure. The importance of physical fitness, avoiding certain types of movements and safe manual lifting techniques are emphasised.
Alberta Occupational Health and Safety, 5th Floor, 4920 - 51 Street, Red Deer, Alberta T4N 5Y5, Canada, 1991. 28p. Illus.

CIS 93-425 Refrigerant safety in ice recreation facilities
Guidelines for handling ammonia/fluorocarbon refrigerants in public recreation facilities are detailed in this training brochure. Topics covered: general information about types of refrigerants; facility owner's responsibilities; emergency procedures; safety equipment requirements; first aid; maintenance procedures; basic preventive maintenance; design considerations.
Alberta Occupational Health and Safety, 5th Floor, 4920 - 51 Street, Red Deer, Alberta T4N 5Y5, Canada, 1991. 20p. Illus.

CIS 92-1380 Lee K.S., Waikar A.
Types of activities and body parts affected in the recommended exercises for VDT operators
Results of an analysis of 15 exercise programmes (123 individual exercises) proposed for the reduction of musculoskeletal stress in VDT operation and similar types of work are presented. Most of the programmes exhibited some redeeming features from a practical and professional standpoint. It was found that recommendations concerning exercises have been directly primarily to muscle stretching and relaxation, body parts targeted being the back, leg, neck, shoulder, side and upper extremities. The exercises consisted of combinations of 13 different activities with rotation, stretching and flexing or bending being the most frequently employed activities.
Journal of Human Ergology, June 1991, Vol.20, No.1, p.13-26. 22 ref.

CIS 92-990 Brown P.J., Yearout R.D.
Impacts of leisure activity noise levels on safety procedures and policy in the industrial environment: Case study
People who work in noisy environments might also have noisy leisure activities which could contribute to hearing loss or interfere with recovery time. The study investigated work and leisure noise levels experienced by workers in a manufacturing plant. Workers were surveyed to determine leisure activities and use of hearing protection. Noise levels of 12 leisure activities had a mean of 99dB with a standard deviation of 8dB, while the mean for the workplace noise levels was 89dB with a standard deviation of 8dB. Although workers are required to wear hearing protection when exposed to occupational noise levels above 85dB, only 36% of the survey respondents wear hearing protection in the leisure environment. Because industries with noisy workplaces may be held liable for hearing damage occurring outside the workplace, it is prudent to emphasise protection not only in the workplace but for leisure activities as well.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, July 1991, Vol.7, No.4, p.341-346. 9 ref.

CIS 91-1848 Brossard B., Durand P., Marquis S.
Management views of health promotion needs
Etude de besoins en matière de promotion de la santé - La perspective de dirigeants d'entreprises [in French]
A questionnaire was administered to 52 high-ranking executives to study management views on health promotion needs. Executives listed anti-smoking, nutrition and physical activities as being the most beneficial health promotion areas to their enterprise and its employees. Twenty-five executives mentioned the profitability of their enterprise and 19 the improvement of employees' health as being their main reasons for undertaking such activities. Results from a logistic regression analysis showed individual characteristics of the enterprise to have an influence on the existence of worksite health promotion activities but not on the willingness of executives to collaborate in their implementation. It appears that these activities are considered justified by the majority of high-ranking officers interviewed but that many of them are reluctant to engage in such activities until efficiency criteria are established.
Travail et santé, Spring 1991, Vol.7, No.1, p.S-2 to S-9. Illus. 26 ref.

1990

CIS 92-599 Münch R.
Problems facing fire brigades: Stress and qualifications of firemen
Probleme im Alltag der Feuerwehren: Belastbarkeit und Tauglichkeit von Feuerwehrleuten [in German]
This outline of the selection process of firemen in the Federal Republic of Germany reveals that professional firemen have to undergo tests of their physical and mental capacity. The aptitude of volunteer firemen is, however, left to their own judgement. The physical workload of firemen includes lifting and carrying tasks under adverse conditions (e.g. wearing heavy respirators) and back-straining postures. Mental stress of firemen involves anxiety in dangerous situations, fear of death and coping with human tragedies.
Brandschutz, Nov. 1990, Vol.44, No.11, p.633-635.

CIS 91-1735 Detoia M.
Workbreak gymnastics - Part of a plant fitness programme
Die Bewegungspause am Arbeitsplatz - ein Teilaspekt berufsbegleitender gesundheitssportlicher Massnahmen [in German]
Workbreak gymnastics is useful for muscle relaxation and physical training in a wide variety of jobs in which workers spend most of their time in a stationary position, such as tool making, belt conveyor operation and secretarial work. It is recommended to conduct workbreak gymnastics twice a day for 3 to 10 minutes by qualified personnel. The workbreaks for conducting gymnastics should be scheduled for the 2 periods of the day when vigilance is at its lowest, i.e. between 10 and 11:30a.m. and 2:30 and 3:30p.m.
Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Präventivmedizin, Oct. 1990, Vol.25, No.10, p.478-480. Illus. 4 ref.

CIS 91-1741 Office workplace
Bureaux [in French]
A series of 5 ergonomic data sheets on office workplace topics are presented. Contents: chairs and work surfaces; the visual environment; temperature, humidity and noise; safety; office exercises. Each sheet contains French data on the reverse side.
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 250 Main Street East, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 1H6, Canada, 1990. 1 set. Illus.

CIS 90-1190 Zeifang K., Pfleiderer R.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz
Accidents at home and during leisure time
Unfallgeschehen in Heim und Freizeit [in German]
Extrapolation of the figures provided by 133,819 households interviewed between February 22nd and June 6th 1989 in the FRG including West Berlin, shows that approximately 3.51 million accidents at home and during leisure time happen every year in the Federal Republic of Germany. The accidents taken into account were those where the victims required medical treatment or suffered from the consequences of the accident for more than 14 days. The figures are analysed with respect to the cause of the accident, the sex and age of the victim (men are more often injured than women, especially in sports between the age 15-35), the type of medical treatment provided and the consequences of the injury. The monograph has extensive summaries in German, English and French.
Verlag für neue Wissenschaft, Postfach 10 11 10, Am Alten Hafen 113-115, 2850 Bremerhaven 1, Federal Republic of Germany, 1990. 230p. Illus. 12 ref.

1989

CIS 91-2093 VDT workplace
Poste de travail avec TEV [in French]
A series of 6 data sheets on different aspects of VDTs in the workplace. Topics covered: office environments; sample checklist to identify problems in a VDT workplace; VDT screens and keyboards; chair and work surfaces; the visual environment; job design, including relaxation exercises.
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 250 Main Street East, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 1H6, Canada, 1989. 1 set. Illus. CAD 4.00 (Canada); USD 5.00 (USA); USD 6.00 (elsewhere).

CIS 91-1339 Prevention of occupational diseases caused by intermittent vibration, noise and physical overloading among mechanical assembly fitters - Methodological recommendations
Profilaktika professional'noj patologii, obuslovlennoj vozdejstviem preryvistoj vibracii, šuma i fizičeskih peregruzok, u slesarej mehanosboročnyh rabot: Metodičeskie rekomendacii [in Russian]
These recommendations are issued with the approval of and in consultation with the Health Ministry of the Russian Federation. They are intended for physicians, engineering plant safety and health officers and trade-union safety inspectors, and propose a set of organisational, technical and medical measures, aimed at preventing harmful effects of vibration, noise and physical overloads on mechanical assembly fitters, engaged in metal roughing, scraping and grinding with abrasive wheels. A brief description is given of work processes and common workplace hazards as well as occupational disease clinical picture, course, diagnosis and treatment characteristics. In appendices: recommendations for developing good work time schedules; physical excercises for workers, exposed to noise and vibration (8-10min. exercise break); self- and mutual massage of the hands, arms and shoulders.
Ministerstvo zdravoohranenija RSFSR, Leningrad, USSR, 1989. 34p. Gratis.

CIS 91-1386 Winkel J.,, Kilbom Å
Physical workload and time aspects of work organisation during repetitive and monotonous work
Fysisk belastning och tidsaspekter på arbetsorganisation vid repetitivt och monotont arbete [in Swedish]
Topics covered in this seminar on physical workload and work organisation, held in Stockholm, Sweden, in October 1989, were: work hours, workbreaks, continuous and intermittent muscular workload, monitoring of physical workload, physical exercise during workbreaks, time aspects of monotonous work, practical ergonomic solutions in order to avoid overexertion injuries, and the work of the Swedish National Board of Occupational Safety and Health in this field.
Arbetsmiljöinstitutet, Förlagstjänst, 171 84 Solna, Sweden, 1989. 85p. Illus. Bibl.

CIS 91-335 Moncada M.
Corrective ergonimics. Ergonomic problems and repetitive microtraumas
Ergonomía correctiva. Problemas ergonómicos y microtraumas repetitivos [in Spanish]
This article provides information on the repetitive traumatic illnesses that directly affect the musculoskeletal system and peripheral nerves and which usually are the product of bad work postures, rate of work (muscular fatigue), static load and job monotony (psychological fatigue). As preventive treatment, exercises before starting work, job rotation to diminish repetitive motions and intake of vitamin B₆ (pyridoxine) are recommended. For most of these complaints, immobilisation yields the best results. As medical treatment, the use of analgesics and anti-inflammatories, along with muscular relaxants and, in many cases, infiltrations of local corticoids is generally indicated. In some cases the pain and functional incapacity of the patient make surgical treatment advisable.
Mapfre seguridad, 4th Quarter 1989, No.36, p.35-40. Illus.

1988

CIS 91-782 Vanjuhin V.I.
Occupational safety and health in questions and answers
Ohrana truda v voprosah i otvetah [in Russian]
This self-study guide is intended for logging and woodworking industry workers and foremen. Covered are: occupational safety and health in the USSR; Soviet labour legislation; occupational hygiene and industrial sanitation; occupational injuries and their prevention; safety of various logging and woodworking operations (tree cutting and felling; timber transport, handling and storage; resinous wood production; logging, road building, maintenance and repair; construction and installation work, equipment start-up and adjustment procedures; machinery repair; gas and electric welding and cutting; timber and sleeper sawing; housekeeping; woodworking; transport of personnel); electrical safety; personal and collective protection, safety devices; guarding, locking, interlocking and remote control; first aid (organisation; wounds and injuries; contusions, compressions, ligament sprains, joint dislocations, fractures; thermal burns, frostbites, freezing, heat and sun strokes; entry by foreign bodies, fainting, poisoning, snake bites; CNS diseases; acute cardiovascular diseases; electrical accidents and drownings; artificial respiration and external cardiac compression).
Izdatel'stvo "Lesnaja promyšlennost'", ul. Kirova 40a, 101000 Moskva, USSR, 1988. 168p. 24 ref. Price: SUR 0.60.

CIS 91-154 Martynova A.P.
Occupational hygiene in the food industry - Reference manual
Gigiena truda v piščevoj promyšlennosti: Spravočnik [in Russian]
This reference book is intended for occupational safety and health specialists and food industry managers. Contents: part I - General occupational hygiene provisions pertaining to food industry undertakings (the workplace climate and its control; dust and protective equipment against it; protection against exposure to toxic substances; requirements for workplace lighting; noise control; physiology of work activities; hygienic requirements for the location and general layout of food plants; sanitary and hygienic monitoring and personal hygiene; first aid in case of accidents); part II - Occupational hygiene in sectors of the food industry (bakery and pasta products; chocolate and confectionery; food concentrate; butter, fats and oils; breweries and non-alcoholic beverage plants; wine making; alcohol, liqueur and vodka.
Agropromizdat, Sadovaja-Spasskaja 18, 107807 Moskva, GSP-6, USSR, 1988. 200p. Illus. 21 ref. Price: SUR 1.30.

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