Accident research - 525 entries found

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2006

CIS 08-109 Le Bouar G., Chauvin C.
An analysis of the risk in the French sea fishing industry. Example of the dockside accident risk
When considering the risks of fishing, one generally thinks about major risks like collisions or vessels running aground, as well as accidents caused ropes or trawling equipment. However there is little data on accidents involving fishermen while the vessel is docked in port. In France, these accidents account for about 30% of all registered injuries for the sea fishing sector. This study analyses the data on the 5074 such accidents reported between 1996 and 2005. Findings are discussed and various preventive measures are proposed.
International Maritime Health, 2006, Vol.57, No.1/4, p.103-113. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 07-1343 Perez-Labajos C., Azofra M., Blanco B., Achutegui J., González J.
Analysis of accident inequality of the Spanish fishing fleet
Safety is a vital factor in the running of a country's fishing sector. However, the planning of the necessary resources and their adequate distribution according to the sector's needs are only possible if detailed information is available on the distribution in the frequency of accidents within the sector. In this context, the aim of this study was two-fold: firstly, to formalise a methodology for the fishing sector of a country which allows the differences in the frequency of accidents to be analysed; and secondly, to apply this methodology to the Spanish fishing fleet for the period 1994-2002. Using the methodology, indices were built by regions and by types of vessel for two variables: fishermen and vessels. Findings are discussed.
Accident Analysis and Prevention, 2006, Vol.38, No.6, p.1168-1175. Illus. 45 ref.

CIS 07-1453 Pawlaczyk-Łuszczyńska M., Szymczak W., Dudarewicz A., Śliwińska-Kowalska M.
Proposed criteria for assessing low frequency noise annoyance in occupational settings
The aim of the study was to recommend methods for assessing low frequency noise (LFN) in the occupational environment to prevent annoyance and its effects on work performance. Three different methods and corresponding admissible values were evaluated. The proposed criteria were verified in laboratory and field studies. The laboratory study included 55 volunteers with normal hearing. The subjects listened to different noises at sound pressure levels of 45-65dB(A), and evaluated annoyance using a graphical rating scale. In the field study, 35 male workers exposed to LFN of 48-61dB(A) were asked to rate noise annoyance at their workplaces using a similar graphical scale. The subjective ratings of LFNs were compared to objective results from various assessing methods. Findings are discussed. All proposed criteria were able to reliably predict annoyance experienced from LFN at workplaces.
International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2006, Vol.19, No.3, p.185-197. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 07-1441 Nivolianitou Z., Konstandinidou M., Michalis C.
Statistical analysis of major accidents in petrochemical industry notified to the major accident reporting system (MARS)
The European Major Accident Reporting System (MARS) was created within the framework of European Union (EU) Directive 82/501/EEC, the so-called "Seveso Directive" (see CIS 83-889), in order to register all the major industrial accidents notified to the European Union authorities from Member States. Statistical analysis of these accidents offers significant data to the understanding and prevention of industrial accidents. This article analyses some characteristics of major accidents in the petrochemical sector included in MARS. The statistical analysis focused on the main fields of the MARS short reports. In addition, a more detailed analysis of the causes of major accidents, with a focus on organizational factors, was attempted using the details available in the full reports of the database.
Journal of Hazardous Materials, Sep. 2006, Vol.137, No.1, p.1-7. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 07-1072 Morel G., Chauvin C.
A socio-technical approach of risk management applied to collisions involving fishing vessels
In this study, a case-by-case analysis of collisions at sea involving fishing vessels resulted in the identification of two basic causes: undetected signals and wrong diagnoses. It also allowed definition of the real operating space of the functional units (fishing vessels) most often involved in collisions, as well as the permeable areas of the safety barriers, through which operations migrate toward unsafe zones. As far as the collision risk is concerned, functional units work in a borderline area, close to the limits of safe behaviour. To prevent accidents, it is necessary to reinforce these safety barriers, thus limiting the migration factor and bringing the functional units back into an area where the factors of safety, performance and individual profitability are all acceptable.
Safety Science, Aug. 2006, Vol.44, No.7, p.599-619. Illus. 26 ref.

CIS 07-1191 Benoît R., Gou M., Bellavigna O., Vu-Hhanh T., Dolez P., Arrieta C., Nohilé C., Ha-Anh T.
Exploratory study of heavy truck tyre blowout and explosion phenomena
Etude exploratoire sur les phénomènes d'éclatement et d'explosion de pneus de camions lourds [in French]
In Quebec in the last four years, three fatal accidents involving heavy vehicles were directly attributable to the bursting of tyres. The degradation of the rubber under the effect of heat is the main cause. However, there are few apparent warning signs for detecting the beginning or the extent of the degradation with or without pyrolysis. This study provides updated information on the tyre bursting phenomenon, as well as its causes, consequences, risks and means of prevention. It involved a literature survey and an analysis of accident investigation reports. Previous studies dealing with means of degradation and aging of tyres, and the mechanical properties and failures of the wheel-tyre system were also updated.
Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2006. xii, 134p. Illus. 243 ref. Price: CAD 15.90. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-479.pdf [in French]

CIS 07-455 Parard G.
Fall from a roof through a skylight
Chute de terrasse au travers d'un lanterneau [in French]
This article describes the fatal fall of a worker who walked on a skylight during roofing work. It analyses the causes of the accident and recalls the measures that could have prevented it.
Prévention BTP, Oct. 2006, No.89, p.35-36. Illus.
http://www.oppbtp.fr/publications/prevention_btp/oct-2006/fiche_accident.pdf [in French]

CIS 07-453 Finiel J.
Ten-metre fall of a mobile crane
Chute de dix mètres d'une grue mobile [in French]
This accident information note describes the fall of a mobile crane during repair work on the supporting wall of a mountain road, analyses the causes and outlines measures that could have avoided this accident.
Prévention BTP, Sep. 2006, No.88, p.35-36. Illus.
http://www.oppbtp.fr/publications/prevention_btp/sep-2006/fiche_accident.pdf [in French]

CIS 06-1456 Yoon H.Y., Lockhart T.E.
Nonfatal occupational injuries associated with slips and falls in the United States
The purpose of this study was to analyse data on nonfatal occupational injuries associated with slip and fall accidents in the USA. The number and incidence rates of nonfatal injuries resulting in days lost from work due to falls and slips were categorized by major industry, nature and source of injury, types of fall, occupation, part of body injured, age and gender of the injured and number of lost workdays. Additionally, costs per claim associated with industrial slip and fall accidents are reviewed. This information may be used to focus attention toward the most relevant intervention strategies for the prevention of workplace slip and fall accidents.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Jan. 2006, Vol.36, No.1, p.83-92. Illus. 5 ref.

2005

CIS 11-0121 Paridon H.
How trip, slip and fall accidents originate
Entstehung von Stolper-, Rutsch- und Sturzunfällen [in German]
Based on a literature survey, this study deals with accidents that can be characterized as slips, trips or falls (STF). A first section briefly illustrates the basic principles involved in the process of walking. This is followed by a listing of accident causes. The third section addresses more specifically the psychological aspects of accident origination. It becomes clear that a series of information processing principles exist, which can contribute to accidents, but which also, simultaneously, are exactly those that enable us to live and work in an effective manner. The fourth section presents the findings of investigations regarding STF accidents. Indications are that while technical faults can frequently be identified as the cause, human factors tend to be less significant in this regard. Finally, several proposals are forwarded regarding preventative measures.
Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften (HVBG), Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53754 Sankt Augustin, Germany, 2005. 55p. Illus. 67 ref.
Report_1/05.pdf [in German]

CIS 06-763 Occupational accident investigations
Investigación de accidentes laborales [in Spanish]
This article describes a method for conducting accident investigations. The investigation consists of several stages: designating an investigation team; field work plan (search for evidence, photographs, video recordings or sketches, measurements, interviews of witnesses); analysis of the findings; conclusions and recommendations for improvement; investigation report (preliminary and final report, presentation of the results).
Prevención, Oct.-Dec. 2005, No.174, p.50-57. Illus. 4 ref.

CIS 06-951 Leclercq S.
Prevention of so-called "accidents on the level" in occupational situations: A research project
Accidents on the level occurring in occupational situations are a major source of concern all over the world. The French National Research and Safety Institute (INRS) has included these accidents into its research and study program. This article proposes a definition of on the level accidents and discusses obstacles to their prevention. It goes on to describe the main factors involved in preventing these accidents and details the two main areas of the INRS research programme: systemic analysis of contexts involving falls on the level in occupational situations and the study of adjustment strategies for confronting the risk of falling or balance disturbance. Finally, the methodological tools to be used in the programme are described.
Safety Science, Aug. 2005, Vol.43, No.7, p.359-371. Illus. 35 ref.

CIS 06-542 Grusenmeyer C.
Maintenance-related occupational accidents - Importance and characterization
Les accidents du travail liés à la maintenance - Importance et caractérisation [in French]
Maintenance is regarded as an essential function within companies. However, maintenance-related risks continue to receive limited attention and little research has been devoted to the impact of maintenance on safety. This study focused on improved assessment of the importance of maintenance-related accidents and on characterizing these accidents. The study involved a literature survey of research on maintenance-related accidents, data retrieval from the EPICEA database (French database of occupational accidents) and analyses of accident declarations and reports in companies producing refrigeration systems for trucks and performing after-sales servicing of these systems. Findings confirmed the large number of maintenance-related accidents and showed that maintenance technicians are more frequently and seriously injured than production operators. They also allowed the identification of critical areas for intervention.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2005, No.201, p.31-44. Illus. 35 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_search_view_view/A7B562299D34915F412570D8004C4120/$FILE/nd2238.pdf [in French]

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 06-493 Seo D.C.
An explicative model of unsafe work behavior
This study attempted to construct and test an explicative model of unsafe work behaviour to reveal the mechanisms by which selected contributory factors influence the safety behaviour of individuals. The effects of perceived safety climate, hazard level, work pressure, risk and barriers to safety were studied among 722 workers in 102 different locations of a United States grain company using a questionnaire survey. The results indicated that perceived safety climate was the best predictor of unsafe work behaviour. It is suggested that improvements in safety climate would decrease the level of perceived work pressure, which in turn would reduce perceived risk and perceived barriers to safety, thus encouraging safer behaviour.
Safety Science, Mar. 2005, Vol.43, No.3, p.187-211. Illus. 89 ref.

CIS 06-492 Gordon R., Flin R., Mearns K.
Designing and evaluating a human factors investigation tool (HFIT) for accident analysis
In an attempt to improve the investigation of the human factors causes of accidents in the United Kingdom offshore industry, a Human Factors Investigation Tool (HFIT) was developed. It collects four types of human factors information: action errors occurring immediately prior to the incident; error recovery mechanisms, in the case of near misses; thought processes which lead to the action error; underlying causes. The tool was evaluated on the basis of an inter-rater reliability assessment, usability assessment, case studies and an established evaluation method. Although there is a need for further validation and analysis of HFIT using more realistic accident scenario exercises, it was found to be useful for the development of remedial actions, one of the main objectives of the tool.
Safety Science, Mar. 2005, Vol.43, No.3, p.147-171. Illus. 38 ref.

CIS 06-59 Giraudo E.
Investigation in the field of occupational accidents: The causal tree method
Investigación de accidentes de trabajo: Método árbol de causas [in Spanish]
The causal tree method provides an understanding of how accidents occur by analysing system malfunctioning. The purpose of this interactive CD-ROM is to train users in the causal tree method and more specifically in the collection and processing of accident data and the identification of potential accident factors with a view to implementing preventive measures.
Superintendencia de Riesgos del Trabajo (SRT), Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2005. CD-ROM for Pentium II, K6 II or higher (requires Windows 98, ME, 2000 or XP, 64 MB RAM, hard disk min. 80 MB, video 16 MB, video resolution 800x600/16 bits).

CIS 05-639 Richard C., Alary R., Delaunay C., Leprince A.
Occupational carbon monoxide poisonings: Results of a survey
Intoxications oxycarbonées professionnelles: résultats d'une enquête [in French]
The objective of this project was to analyse data on incidents of occupational carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the Paris police laboratory and from the medical literature. Topics covered: toxic effects of CO and diagnosis of CO poisoning; analysis of conditions leading to intoxication (type of equipment and fuel in use, type of work and workplace, ventilation); national and international statistics; preventive measures (occupational exposure limits).
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 2nd Quarter 2005, No.102, p.191-213. 48 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/inrs-pub/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_search_view_view/689EB83ADD28D41EC12570340036DB92/$FILE/tf140.pdf [in French]

2004

CIS 05-310 Choobineh A., Lahmi M., Hosseini M., Shahnavaz H., Jazani R. K.
Workstation design in carpet hand-weaving operation: Guidelines for prevention of musculoskeletal disorders
Carpet weavers suffer from musculoskeletal problems mainly attributable to poor working postures and poor workstation design. This study investigated the effects of two workstation design parameters (weaving height and seat type) on postural variables and subjective experience. Guidelines were developed for workstation adjustments. At an adjustable experimental workstation, 30 professional weavers worked under nine different conditions. Working posture and weavers' perceptions were recorded. It was found that head, neck and shoulder postures were influenced by weaving height, while both weaving height and seat type influenced trunk and elbow postures. The determinant factor for weavers' perception on the neck, shoulders and elbows was found to be weaving height, and on the back and knees it was seat type. Based on the results, it was proposed that weaving height should be adjusted to 20cm above elbow height and that a 10° forward-sloping high seat should be used.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2004, Vol.10, No.4, p.411-424. Illus. 35 ref.

CIS 05-188 Inventory of industrial accidents 1992-2004
L'inventaire des accidents technologiques 1992-2004 [in French]
This article presents the main highlights of a report analysing the 17,501 accidents which occurred in France between 1992 and 2004, and that are featured in the ARIA database. Data are presented by type of event, sector of activity, substances involved, primary cause of accident and consequences. The article also presents trends in fatal accidents as well as an accident severity scale. Data on all accidents having occurred in France and other countries from 1997 are made public on the website of the French Ministry of the Environment (www.aria.environnement.gouv.fr).
Préventique-Sécurité, July-Aug. 2004, No.76, p.4-14. Illus.

CIS 05-211 Gagné N., Massé S., Turcot D., Giraud L., Sirard C.
Safety of carding machines - Identifying the hazards and exploring possibilities for improvement
La sécurité des cardes - Identification des risques et exploration des possibilités d'amélioration [in French]
Operators and mechanics working on carding machines are often victims of severe accidental injuries to the upper extremities, possibly including dismemberment. In terms of lost days and costs of these accidents, carding machines are almost as dangerous as metal presses. Faced with the diversity of equipment installed in textile enterprises in Quebec, occupational safety specialists have little information available for proposing preventive actions. This field study was undertaken to better understand why and how workers come into contact with carding machines in operation, while being aware of the risks they incur. These observations also allowed data to be collected on maintenance, existing safety devices and accident history. This information was analysed for the purpose of identifying possible means of making carding machines safer.
Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2004. ix, 182p. Illus. 13 ref. Price: CAD 13.00. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/R-377.pdf [in French]

CIS 04-681 Dosne R.
Fires, explosions, transport of dangerous goods: Ten years of reporting
Incendies, explosions, TMD, dix ans de témoignages [in French]
This article summarises the main lessons to be drawn from the 100 most significant major accidents that occurred in France during the last ten years and that were reported in previous issues of the journal, grouped under the following headings: food industry; warehouses; health care institutions; old buildings; transport of dangerous goods; tunnels; wire and cable ducts; other disasters. Boxes contain brief descriptions of nine of these major accidents.
Face au risque, Feb. 2004, No.400, p.38-43. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 04-728 Kamińska W.
How to ensure the physiological comfort of protective footwear
Jak zapewnić komfort fizjologiczny użytkownikom obuwia ochronnego [in Polish]
The most important functions and the indispensable properties of footwear used for foot protection against different risks are outlined. There is a detailed description of heat exchange, moisture and the microclimate around the feet.
Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy - Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2004. 33p. 41 ref.

CIS 04-280
Health and Safety Executive
Improving health and safety in construction: Phase 2 - Depth and breadth: Volume 2 - RIDDOR Accident Data Analysis Tool
This report describes the development and use of a data tool on the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR, see CIS 95-1930), along with detailed guidance notes. This tool consists of a Microsoft Excel table and charts containing the RIDDOR accident data reported to HSE between 1996/97 and 2001/02, and is intended to provide HSE with valuable insight into the accident data. The RIDDOR Data Tool table and charts are linked directly to an accident database enabling the use of the most up-to-date data set released by HSE. Analysis of the accident data can be undertaken graphically, enabling the user to analyse data in any number of combinations using the fields included in the RIDDOR system. This report is part of a series on improving health and safety in the construction sector. For the other reports, see CIS 04-386-389.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2004. vi, 41p. Illus. 12 ref. Price: GBP 20.00. Downloadable version free of charge.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr232.pdf [in English]

CIS 04-439 Hsu Y.L., Huang C.C., Yo C.Y., Chen C.J., Lien C.M.
Comfort evaluation of hearing protection
Hearing protection is highly important for workers exposed to noisy environments, although the willingness of workers to wear hearing protectors depends to a large degree on their comfort. In this study, workers' experience and comfort needs for hearing protection were investigated through a questionnaire that established the comfort indices for hearing protection. An earmuff comfort tester was designed to measure the comfort indices, and an experiment was conducted to transpose workers' perceived comfort into quantitative data. These data enabled the determination of the range of these comfort indices in which workers feel comfortable. Guidelines to improve the design of current hearing protection based on these comfort indices are proposed, which may help increase workers' willingness to wear this equipment.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, June 2004, Vol.33, No.6, p.543-551. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 04-272 Etiler N., Colak B., Bicer U., Barut N.
Fatal occupational injuries among workers in Kocaeli, Turkey, 1990-1999
This study analyses occupational accidents in the province of Kocaeli, Turkey. Data on 387 deaths were derived from the social insurance registry. The rates of occupational injuries and mortality and fatalities were 5.1%, 30.6 per 100,000 workers and 6.0 (per 1000 injuries), respectively, compared with 2.8%, 35.2 per 100.000 workers and 12.7 (per 1000 injuries) in all of Turkey. Sectors with the highest rates of fatal occupational injuries were construction, transportation, metal production, metalworking, and heating with electricity, gas or steam. Of all fatal accidents, 121 (31.3%) were caused by traffic, 93 (24.1%) by falls from heights and 43 (11.1%) by electrocution. 89% occurred at workplaces, 42% of the workplaces were small, and 45.9% of the deceased workers had been working there for less than three months.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 2004, Vol.10, No.1, p.55-62. Illus. 24 ref.
http://www.ijoeh.com/pfds/1001_Etiler.pdf [in English]

CIS 04-391 Schröder J.U.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin
Data collection of causes and underlying factors of marine casualties
Datenerfassung bei Unfallursachen und begünstigenden Faktoren für Unfälle in der Seeschifffahrt [in German]
This study examines the international efforts undertaken to investigate maritime accidents. It focuses on the approaches used to obtain structured accident data in order to form a solid statistical basis for the assessment of existing maritime safety standards and the development of new standards. A casualty investigation follow-up method was developed, based on a process model of the maritime casualty (SEMOMAP) and data scheme. It was used to obtain data on accident processes and their underlying factors. Although the number of maritime accidents was not sufficient to enable general conclusions regarding causes, it was clear that there were gaps in the reports concerning the influencing factors of crew performance. Consequently, the accident process often cannot be modelled for safety scientific purposes on the basis of casualty reports. This underlines the need for a more structured approach in future.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2004. 203p. Illus. 88 ref. Price: EUR 17.50.
http://www.baua.de/info/s/s81.pdf [in German]

CIS 04-214
Health and Safety Executive
Evaluation of The Railways (Safety Case) Regulations
This study evaluates the impact of the Railway (Safety Case) Regulations 1994 (see CIS 97-1789) on rail safety from when they were first introduced in 1994 and over subsequent years through the various amendments. While much of the focus is on recent practice, the work was structured to identify also the relative position pre-1994. Data were collected through various sources, including a stakeholder workshop, an industry-wide questionnaire, interviews and an appraisal of safety literature. Based on the findings, recommendations for future regulatory amendments are proposed.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2004. xxii, 224p. Illus. 32 ref. Price: GBP 35.00. Downloadable version free of charge.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr192.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-1608 How to evaluate safety and health changes in the workplace - Does it really work?
This guide is aimed at managers interested in ensuring safety and health of workers. It invites them to look carefully at the effectiveness of the changes they have made to improve safety and health at the workplace. The guide is divided into three sections: presentation of four case studies that illustrate the collaborative effort of employers and workers for evaluating occupational safety and health changes in the workplace; four simple steps outlining how to conduct an evaluation of safety and health changes in the workplace; a list of additional resources for making these evaluations.
Publications Dissemination, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226-2002, USA, Apr. 2004. v, 27p. Illus. 6 ref.
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2004-135/downloads/2004-135.pdf [in English]

2003

CIS 05-646 Kütting B., Drexler H.
Effectiveness of skin protection creams as a preventive measure in occupational dermatitis: A critical update according to criteria of evidence-based medicine
This literature survey examines evidence for the effectiveness of the generally recommended three-step skin protection programme in the prevention of occupational skin disease (skin protection before work, cleaning and skincare after work). Data in the literature are conflicting: some publications report on the positive aspects of skin protection, others stress the negative ones. Not enough data have been accumulated to prove the benefit of skin protection measures under real workplace conditions. It is unclear whether the various in vitro and in vivo methods used are suitable for the simulation of workplace conditions and if these test results can be related to real occupational exposures. For the evidence-based recommendation of skin protection, further studies are needed that evaluate the contribution of each single element of the skincare programme (products, frequency of application and education programme) under daily working conditions.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2003, Vol.76, No.4, p.253-259. 63 ref.

CIS 05-684 Bajor R.
Dealing with near-miss major incidents - Experiences at nitrogenous compounds plant "Puławy S.A."
Postępowanie ze zdarzeniami prawie wypadkowymi - doświadczenia Zakładów Azotowych "Puławy" S.A. [in Polish]
This article describes the way in which the management of occupational safety and health was modernized in the largest nitrogenous fertilizer manufacturer in Poland, focusing on the system for analyzing near-miss major incidents. Contents include a definition of near-miss incidents, procedures to be adopted in the event of a near-miss incident and the procedures for investigating the causes of these incidents.
Bezpieczeństwo pracy, Jan. 2003, No.1, p.14-16. Illus.

CIS 05-302 Morales Suárez-Varela M., Carrasco Sanmartín H., Llopis González A.
Eye injuries: Their relationship with the world of work
Accidentes oculares: su relación con el mundo laboral [in Spanish]
The aim of this retrospective epidemiological study was to determine the incidence of eye injuries and to identify the characteristics of workers most at risk. It involved 275,961 workers. The most frequent aetiologies were foreign bodies in the eye (39.55%), followed by corneal ulcers (23.3%) and corneal erosion (12.86%). Eye injuries affect mainly men (92.7%). Workers with the highest injury rates include welders and assembly workers (38.4%) and maintenance workers (27.6%). Findings indicate that the most common type of eye injury is caused by a foreign body affecting the left eye, in a male industrial worker aged between 15 and 35 and employed for less than six months within the enterprise.
Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Aug. 2003, Vol.XLX, No.192, p.25-33. Illus. 37 ref.

CIS 05-154 de Oliveira M.L., Machado Neto J.G.
Work safety in the use of pesticides on citrus trees: Application with an air-assisted sprayer and preparation of the spray formulation in a 2.000-L tank
Segurança no trabalho com agrotóxicos em citros: aplicação com o turbopulverizador e preparo de calda em tanque de 2.000 L [in Portuguese]
The objective of this study was to quantify skin and inhalation exposure of workers while spraying pesticides on lemon trees using a pneumatic sprayer and during the preparation of the formulation in a 2000-litre tank. The study also aimed to determine the parts of the body most exposed and to evaluate protective measures. Results indicate that the most effective protective measures for limiting the exposure of tractor drivers and pesticide sprayers is the use of a "Real" type of cab and the wearing of "AZR" clothing: they lower the exposure by 94.9% and 88.9% respectively compared to exposures in the absence of protection. The parts of the body that were the most exposed during pesticide spraying and the preparation of the formulation were the hands.
Revista brasileira de saúde ocupacional, 2003, Vol.28, No.107/108, p.9-17. 16 ref.

CIS 05-153 de Oliveira M.L., Machado Neto J.G
Occupational safety during pesticide spraying of citrus fruits using hand gun sprayers
Segurança no trabalho de aplicação de agrotóxicos com o pulverizador de pistolas em citros [in Portuguese]
The objectives of this study were to quantify the skin and inhalation exposure of workers during the spraying of pesticides on lemon trees using a hand gun sprayer, to evaluate protective measures and to determine the parts of the body that are the most exposed. Both types of personal protective suits tested were found to be effective for limiting the inhalation and skin exposure of the sprayer and the tractor driver, with the "AZR" suit giving the best results (efficiency of 93.1% for the sprayer and 77.8% for the tractor driver compared to exposures without protection). For the sprayer, the most exposed parts of the body were the hands and feet, while for the tractor driver, they were the hands, thighs, legs and feet.
Revista brasileira de saúde ocupacional, 2003, Vol.28, No.105/106, p.83-90. 18 ref.

CIS 04-506 Cuny X.
A new look at accidents
L'événement accident revisité [in French]
This article discusses the models on which the current views of accident phenomenology are based, schematically consisting of a chain comprised of inputs (root causes, contributing factors), deviances (lack of control, loss of control, exposed targets) and outputs (losses or damage to persons, the environment, objects or image). The article also comments on the following topics: causal trees; distinction between disease and accident; intention or not to cause injury; hazard probability.
Préventique-Sécurité, Nov.-Dec. 2003, No.72, p.12-17. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 03-1717 The Construction Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (COHSMS) Guidelines & COHSMS External System Evaluation by JCSHA
English-language version of the manual containing the guidelines: scope and definitions; general requirement at business offices; general requirements at project sites. The procedure for external system evaluation is also provided. The Japanese-language version of the Guidelines is analysed under CIS 03-1716.
Japan Construction Safety and Health Association (JCSHA), 5-35-1, Shiba, Minatoku, Tokyo 108-0014, Japan, [c2003]. 17p. Illus.
http://www.kensaibou.or.jp/english/JCSHA/2-2/2-2.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-1732 Bishop P.G., Bloomfield R.E., Emmet L.O., Johnson C., Black W., Hamilton V., Koorneef K.
Health and Safety Executive
Learning from incidents involving E/E/PE systems - Part 1 - Review of methods and industry practice; Part 2 - Recommended scheme; Part 3 - Guidance examples and rationale
The overall objective of this project was to create a scheme for learning from incidents that involve electrical, electronic or programmable electronic (E/E/PE) systems. Part 1 reviews existing learning processes and causal analysis techniques, examines industry practice and makes recommendations for a new scheme. Part 2 presents the recommended scheme and Part 3 gives accompanying guidance, examples and rationale.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2003. Part 1: viii, 68p. Illus. 35 ref. Price: GBP 15.00. Part 2: viii, 57p. Illus. 4 ref. Price: GBP 15.00. Part 3: x, 78p. Illus. 4 ref. Price: GBP 15.00.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr179.pdf (Part 1) [in English]
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr182.pdf (Part 3) [in English]
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr181.pdf (Part 2) [in English]

CIS 03-1552 Dudka G.
Recording and analysis of incidents
Rejestrowanie i analiza wydarzeń wypadkowych bezurazowych [in Polish]
The growing number of enterprises which implement health and safety management systems has contributed to an increased interest in the recording of incidents. This kind of recording system gathers data related to accident threats before they occur. The analysis of these records can help in the implementation of successful accident prevention programmes.
Bezpieczeństwo pracy, May 2003, No.5, p.26-28. Illus. 4 ref.

CIS 03-1870 Wijaya A.R., Jönsson P., Johansson Ö.
The effect of seat design on vibration comfort
A field study was carried out to evaluate drivers' seats designed to minimize vibration transmission and reduce the level of vibration-related discomfort. Two seat designs (sliding or fixed in the horizontal direction) were each evaluated under two conditions of sitting posture, driving speed and type of obstacle. Participants included ten professional drivers, who provided subjective assessments of discomfort and perceived motion. Acceleration and vibration were also recorded. Based on values of maximum transient vibration and vibration dose, it was found that the sliding seat was superior in attenuating transient vibration in the horizontal direction. It was also perceived as giving less overall and low back discomfort compared with the fixed seat.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2003, Vol.9, No.2, p.193-210. Illus. 14 ref.

2002

CIS 04-265 Teaching the principles of analysis of the causes of occupational accidents - Causal tree
Nauczanie zasad analizy wypadków przy pracy - Drzewo przyczyn [in Polish]
Training material aimed at trainers instructing safety personnel on causal trees, a method of post-accident analysis enabling the use of safety management techniques. Polish translation of a document published by the French Institute of Research and Safety (INRS ED 1500).
Centralny Instytut Ochrony Pracy, ul. Czerniakowska 16, 00-701 Warszawa, Poland, 2002. 82p. Illus. (Folder containing 14 leaflets)

CIS 03-1915 Moens G.
Needlestick injury accidents and their prevention
Piqûres et prévention [in French]
A programme aimed at reducing the frequency of needlestick injury accidents was implemented in a large Belgian hospital between 1990 and 1997. A study was subsequently carried out among all workers at risk to assess the effectiveness of the prevention programme. It compares data for the years 1990-1995 with those for 1996-1997. For health care personnel, a significant reduction in the number of needlestick injury accidents was observed, from 17.2 per 100 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers in 1990-1996 to 12.7/100 FTEs in 1996-1997. Among catering, laundry and housekeeping staff, no significant differences were observed; for these workers, most accidents were caused by needles or sharp objects inappropriately discarded in plastic bags or cardboard boxes. Overall, the average annual incidence of needlestick injury accidents declined from 33.4/100 occupied beds in 1990-1995 to 30.1 in 1996-1997. It transpires from this study that despite preventive efforts, the reduction in overall incidence of needlestick injury accidents appears only belatedly.
Travail et bien-être, Dec. 2002, Vol.5, No.5, p.21-25. Illus.

CIS 03-1579 Janicak C.A., Weber W., Cox C.A., Valent F., McGwin G., Bovenzi M., Barbone F., Fabrega V., Starkey S.
Fatal workplace injuries in 2000: A collection of data and analysis
Statistics of fatal occupational injuries in the United States for the year 2000, preceded by four research articles on the subject. Contents: racial differences in occupational firearm homicides; work-related injuries in 1998; fatal work-related inhalation of harmful substances in the United States; fatal occupational injuries among Hispanic construction workers in Texas; national statistics of fatal occupational injuries; data by State, region and industry sector; census of occupational injury fatality rates; profiles of fatal work injuries and hazards.
U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Postal Square Building, Rm 2850, 2 Massachusetts Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20212-0001, USA, 2002. vi, 209p. lllus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 03-1144 Fröhner K.D., Boothby S., Schulze T.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin
Practical applicability of broad operational efficiency indicators
Bilanzierung von Verfahren der Erweiterten Wirtschaftlichkeit für die betriebliche Praxis [in German]
Numerous specific instruments have been developed in recent years for the appraisal and calculation of enterprises' efforts towards establishing a strategy to ensure employees' health and safety at work or towards designing workplace layouts. This study analyses, classifies and compares the major improved operational efficiency methods published in Germany to determine their applicability in a business environment. In order to compare these methods, a method known as SADT technology was adapted and applied. The analysis shows that no single process can be employed to comprehensively explain and conduct efficiency reviews, but that the processes may be implemented within the contextual framework defined by each enterprise. The methodology of practically-relevant processes is demonstrated in more detail, using an example based on a simulated enterprise with a realistic degree of complexity.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2002. 226p. Illus. 48 ref. Price: EUR 18.50.

CIS 03-856 Arezes P.M., Miguel A.S.
Hearing protectors [sic] acceptability in noisy environments
The choice of hearing protectors should take ergonomic features into account. The purpose of this study was to analyse the relationship between the acoustical attenuation efficiency and other aspects related to the comfort of hearing protectors and consequently their acceptability by workers exposed to noisy industrial environments. A subjective evaluation of comfort was performed using a questionnaire completed by 20 workers. The time during which the protectors were used was self-recorded by each subject. The results show that there are significant differences between that claimed by the supplier and effective attenuation. Protectors which were more comfortable tended to be more efficient than protectors with a higher claimed attenuation, but which were less comfortable.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Aug. 2002, Vol.46, No.6, p.531-536. 21 ref.

CIS 03-550 Analysis of severe construction accidents and preventive measures
Geon sul jung dae jae sa rye wa dae chek [in Korean]
A total of 71 fatal accidents occurred in the construction sector in Korea during the first half of 2002. These included 33 falls, 11 cases of structure collapse, 8 cases of being caught in machines, 7 strikes by falling objects, 5 overturns, 4 cases of electric shock and 3 collisions. This manual consists of case descriptions of each of these accidents, including the circumstances that led to the accident, the direct accident causes and the recommended preventive measures.
Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, 34-4 Gusan-dong, Bupyung-gu, Inchon 403-711, Republic of Korea, Sep. 2002. 171p. Illus.

CIS 03-900 Stanislaw H.
Computer-intensive methods in traffic safety research
The analysis of traffic safety data archives has been markedly facilitated by the development of procedures that are heavily dependent on computers. Three such procedures are described in this article: the first involves using computers to assist in the identification and correction of invalid data; the second makes greater computational demands, and involves using computerized algorithms to fill in the "gaps" that typically occur in archival data when information regarding key variables is not available; finally, the third and most computer-intensive procedure involves using data mining techniques to search archives for interesting and important relationships between variables. These procedures are illustrated using examples from data archives that describe the characteristics of traffic accidents in the USA and Australia.
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 2002, Vol.8, No.3, p.353-363. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 03-401 Rothmore P.
Lead aprons, radiographers and discomfort: A pilot study
The association between fatigue and ease of movement while wearing different configurations of lead aprons has not been widely studied. The main aim of this study was to make appropriate recommendations to staff working within an angiography suite with regard to the most appropriate choice of lead shielding. In a crossover study design, five radiographers (three women, two men) each wore three different configurations of lead aprons: a two-piece suit, a one-piece suit and one-piece suits with waist belts. They completed visual analogue scales on their perceived levels of discomfort and fatigue at the beginning (T1) and end (T2) of patient procedural lists. Information on "ease of movement" was collected at T2 only. Statistical analysis revealed significantly greater levels of discomfort in the neck and lower back regions between T1 and T2 for subjects while wearing one-piece aprons, with a trend towards significantly greater discomfort in the thoracic region.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Aug. 2002, Vol.18, No.4, p.357-366. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 02-1873 Kinsman P., Lewis J.
Health and Safety Executive
Report on a second study of pipeline accidents using the Health and Safety Executive's risk assessment programs MISHAP and PIPERS
HSE uses mathematical models to estimate risks when examining proposals to develop land in the vicinity of high-pressure pipelines. PIPERS and MISHAP are computer programs based on these models. An earlier version of MISHAP, called MISHAP98, was not sufficiently conservative in some respects, and it was recommended that improvements be made. These have now been implemented and the present work examines the performance of the new version, called MISHAP01 that is now the routine tool for studying natural gas pipelines. PIPERS is an extension and development version of MISHAP, embodying alternative ways of modelling releases from natural gas pipelines and having additional models for use in the study of risks in the vicinity of pipelines carrying flashing and non-flashing liquids. Over 100 reports of pipeline accidents were studied using these programmes, and recommendations are made concerning their applicability and areas for further improvement.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2002. ii, 429p. Illus. Price: GBP 25.00.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr036.pdf [in English]

CIS 02-1918 af Wåhlberg A.E.
Characteristics of low speed road accidents with buses in public transport
Low-speed accidents involving public transport buses in the city of Uppsala, Sweden, during the years 1986-2000 were coded according to 17 variables. It was found that more than a quarter of all accidents occurred at bus stops. It is argued that the validity of this database exceeds that of company self-reports and reports from state and police archives, due to more extensive reporting and corroborating experience. The practical usefulness of these results and accident classifications in general are discussed.
Accident Analysis and Prevention, Sep. 2002, Vol.34, No.5, p.637-647. 39 ref.

CIS 02-1005 Regulation of 9 September 2002 on the programme and control measures related to the capacity of the employer or of an authorized person to perform OSH-related tasks (Text No. 1841) [Croatia]
Pravilnik o programu i načinu provjere osposobljenosti poslodavca ili njegovog ovlaštenika za obavljanje poslova zaštite na radu [in Croatian]
This Regulation provides for measures to evaluate the effectiveness of employers or their chosen representatives to perform OSH-related tasks.
Narodne Novine, 1 Oct. 2002, Vol.164, No.114, p.4305.

CIS 02-738 Szubert Z., Sobala W.
Work-related injuries among firefighters: Sites and circumstances of their occurrence
To determine the injury ratio, causes and duration of temporal work disability from on-duty injuries among firefighters, a sample of 1503 firefighters from 29 fire stations who were employed between 1994 and 1997 was studied. Data examined included the number of days and cases of work disability due to on-duty injury, personal data (age, work duration) and data on the circumstances of injury. The analysis revealed that the large proportion of injuries (40%) occurred during compulsory physical training, being responsible for 41% of post-injury absence at work. The workers employed for less than one year were at highest risk of injury. Injuries during emergency operations made 25% of all injuries and accounted for 24% of post-injury absence. The frequency of injuries was not significantly aged-dependent, however, the duration of work disability was found to increase by 20% with increasing age of workers.
International Journal of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, 2002, Vol.15, No.1, p.49-55. Illus. 21 ref.

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