Iron and steel industry - 375 entries found

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1996

CIS 98-601 Brandenburg U., Kuhn K., Marschall B., Verkoyen C.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz
Health promotion at the enterprise level
Gesundheitsförderung im Betrieb [in German]
Topics: conference; cost of accidents; cost of diseases; cost-benefit analysis; design of equipment; economic aspects; Germany; health programmes; iron and steel industry; motor vehicle industry; occupational medicine; older workers; plant health organization; quality control; role of insurance institutions; safety and health committees; safety programmes; social aspects; supply of information; women; work design; workers participation.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Verlag für neue Wissenschaft GmbH, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1996. viii, 581p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: DM 81.00.

CIS 97-669 Hilderbrandt V.H., Bongers P.M., Dul J., van Dijk F.J.H., Kemper H.C.G.
Identification of high-risk groups among maintenance workers in a steel company with respect to musculoskeletal symptoms and workload
A questionnaire survey of 436 maintenance workers in 5 departments of a Dutch steel company revealed a high level of low-back and neck-shoulder symptoms; prevalence rates were similar to a comparison group of non-sedentary workers. Self-reported exposure rates to physical and psychosocial loads and poor climatic conditions were comparable to the reference group; only exposure to vibration was higher. Significant differences were observed among the 5 departments and among task groups within the departments. The questionnaire survey can help in the identification of high-risk groups requiring ergonomic intervention.
Ergonomics, Feb. 1996, Vol.39, No.2, p.232-242. 12 ref.

CIS 97-507 Xu Z., Morris Brown L., Pan G.W., Liu T.F., Gao G.S., Stone B.J., Cao R.M., Guan D.X., Sheng J.H., Yan Z.S., Dosemeci M., Fraumeni J.F., Blot W.J.
Cancer risks among iron and steel workers in Anshan, China, Part II: Case-control studies of lung and stomach cancer
Nested case-control interview studies of lung cancer, stomach cancer and controls were conducted to follow leads from a proportional mortality analysis of deaths among male workers in a large integrated iron-steel complex in Anshan, China (see CIS 97-506). After adjusting for non-occupational risk factors, the risk of lung cancer was significantly higher for those employed for 15 or more years in smelting and rolling, in the manufacturing of fire-resistant bricks, in general loading and as coke oven workers. The risk of stomach cancer was significantly higher for those employed for 15 or more years in ore sintering and transportation, in the manufacturing of fire-resistant bricks, in general loading, as boiler workers and cooks and as coke oven workers. For both lung and stomach cancers, significant dose-response gradients were observed for exposure to total dust and benzo(a)pyrene. Overall, long-term steel workers with exposure to workplace pollutants had a 40% increased risk of both lung and stomach cancers.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 1996, Vol.30, No.1, p.7-15. 32 ref.

CIS 97-506 Xu Z., Pan G.W., Liu L.M., Morris Brown L., Guan D.X., Xiu Q., Sheng J.H., Stone B.J., Dosemeci M., Fraumeni J.F., Blot W.J.
Cancer risks among iron and steel workers in Anshan, China, Part I: Proportional mortality ratio analysis
A standardized proportional mortality ratio (SPMR) study of 8,887 deaths during 1980-1989 among male workers in a large integrated iron-steel complex in Anshan, China, was conducted to provide clues to occupational risk factors. Accidents and cancer accounted for a higher proportion of deaths among the iron-steel workers than among the general male population. Among all workers, SPMR were significantly elevated for stomach, lung and colorectal cancers. Stomach cancer appeared to be highest among workers employed in jobs with exposure to iron and coal dust, whereas significant increases in colorectal cancer were seen for loading and other dusty jobs and for administrative and sedentary jobs without dust exposure. Risk of lung cancer appeared elevated especially for those jobs with probable high levels of exposure to polycyclic hydrocarbons and asbestos. The risk of oesophageal cancer and nonmalignant respiratory disease (NRD) was significantly elevated for workers involved in the manufacturing of fire-resistant bricks, while the risk of NRD was also significantly elevated for foundry workers and fire-resistant brick makers.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, July 1996, Vol.30, No.1, p.1-6. 20 ref.

CIS 96-1469 Whillock M.J., Pearson A.J., Walker S.G.
Health and Safety Executive
Measurements of the visible and infrared emissions from industrial sources at eight industrial sites in the UK
Measurements were made of optical radiation emissions from sources found in glass manufacture, steel refining and rolling, steel pressing, and alloy refining. There was no evidence to suggest that workers employed at the sites visited were exposed to levels of optical radiation that were likely to cause retinal injury. However, many of the sources produced exposure levels that exceeded the recommended limits set to protect against the induction of cataracts. Use of effective eye protection would eliminate or reduce the potential risk to workers.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 6FS, United Kingdom, 1996. iii, 31p. 7 ref. Price: GBP 10.00.

1995

CIS 98-1726 Burdorf A., van Riel M., van Wingerden J.P., van Wingerden S., Snijders C.
Isodynamic evaluation of trunk muscles and low-back pain among workers in a steel factory
Topics: backache; dynamic muscular work; iron and steel industry; maintenance; muscular strength; physical workload.
Ergonomics, Oct. 1995, Vol.38, No.10, p.2107-2117. 28 ref.

CIS 98-75
Sindicato Nacional de Trabajadores de Acerías Paz del Río
A better working environment for all! - Training and prevention for workers of the steel works of Paz del Río
¡Para todos! Un mejor ambiente de trabajo: capacitación y prevención para trabajadores de acerías Paz del Río [in Spanish]
Topics: Colombia; conditions of work; dust; hazard evaluation; health hazards; mechanical hazards; metalworking industry; noise; physical hazards; responsibilities of employees; responsibilities of employers; risk factors; safety and health committees; steelworks; training manuals; training material; work organization.
Seguro Social, Protección Laboral, Administradora de Riesgos Profesionales, Santafé de Bogotá, Colombia, 1995. 48p. Illus.

CIS 97-1915 Metal and steelworks, foundries, power and thermal power stations
Metal-, stålværker og støberier, el- og varmeværker [in Danish]
A systematic summary of publications and documentation regarding working environment and health factors in Danish metalworking establishments, steelworks, foundries and power stations. There are approx. 5,700 people working in metal, steel and foundry establishments and 14,400 people in power stations. The main working environment problems are accidents, noise and respiratory diseases. Other problems are strain injuries, cancer and thermal strain.
Arbejdstilsynet, At-Salg, Landskronagade 33, 2100 København Ø, Denmark, 1995. 86p. Price: DKK 100.00 + tax.

CIS 96-1715 Iron and metal industry
Jern- og metalindustri [in Danish]
A systematic summary of publications and documentation regarding working environment factors and the state of workers' health in the Danish iron and metal industry. The sector is characterized by many different operations, including the processing and assembly of metal and metal articles with large and small machines as well as with hand tools. Many different materials and chemicals are used. Other activities include the handling and transportation of articles and the collecting, monitoring and dissemination of information. Exposure to all well-known working environment factors can be found in this sector. The highest exposures are found in shipbuilding. The principal problems in different parts of the industry are: iron and metal goods industry - strain injuries, noise and accidents (other factors are brain injuries and respiratory diseases); machine processing - noise, strain injuries and accidents (also respiratory diseases); electronics industry - strain injuries and skin diseases (also respiratory diseases); shipbuilding yards - noise, strain injuries and accidents (also brain injuries and cancer); instrument, gold and silver industries - strain injuries and respiratory diseases.
Arbejdstilsynet, At-Salg, Landskronagade 33, 2100 København Ø, Denmark, 1995. 96p. Price: DKK 100.00 + tax.

CIS 95-2092 Mihajlova A., Zaprjanov Z., Antov G., Hristeva V., Muhtarova M., Černeva P., Hinkova L., Ivanovič E., Enev S., Todorova L., Izrael M., Georgieva R., Peneva V.
Assessing occupational hazards for workers in electric steel manufacture
Ocenka na profesionalnija risk na rabotnicite ot elektrostomanodobiva [in Bulgarian]
These studies involved 105 workers in eight job groups, with an average age of 45 years and 5-10 years of special occupational experience at the "Electrosteel" works. Measurement of various factors in the work environment showed unfavorable microclimatic conditions, elevated equivalent levels of noise, excessive general and local vibration, and exposure to manganese aerosols, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides; some of the subjects had hepatic status and connective tissue abnormalities. Job groups found to be at risk were those of steel founders, crane workers and pourers. Summary in English.
Problemi na higienata, 1995, Vol.20, p.122-128. 12 ref.

1994

CIS 96-200 Finkelstein M.M.
Lung cancer among steelworkers in Ontario
All deaths from lung cancer in two cities in Ontario among men aged 45-74, during 1979-1988 were matched with control subjects who died of other causes. Work histories were provided for individuals identified as steelworkers. Compared to the controls, the relative risk of death from lung cancer for steelworkers was 0.85 in one city and 1.10 in the other. There was increased risk among foundry, coke oven and pouring pit workers. Retrospective hygiene assessment suggested that the increased risk among steel pourers might be related to the use of tar-based mould coating agents (now discontinued) or to exposure to mineral fibres.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 1994, Vol.26, No.4, p.549-557. 11 ref.

CIS 95-1331 Sorohan T., Faux A.M., Cooke M.A.
Mortality among a cohort of United Kingdom steel foundry workers with special reference to cancers of the stomach and lung, 1946-90
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, May 1994, Vol.51, No.5, p.316-322. 8 ref. ###

CIS 95-1384 Brantley C.D., Reist P.C.
Abrasive blasting with quartz sand: Factors affecting the potential for incidental exposure to respirable silica
Fixed sampling arrays using personal respirable dust samplers and high volume samplers were positioned in potential down-plume positions for 10 different sandblasting worksites in a steel fabrication yard. In general, downwind respirable silica concentrations varied as distance raised to the -1.17 power from the source. Turbulent "free jet" mixing theory with normal work patterns for sandblasting was used to explain measured respirable concentrations in and close to the blast zone. The geometry of the worksite and the position of the worker will affect concentrations observed by orders of magnitude, in some cases leading to exposure conditions inadequately protected by supplied-air respirators.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Oct. 1994, Vol.55, No.10, p.946-952. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 95-917 Moulin J.J., Lafontaine M., Mantout B., Belanger A., Michel M., Portefaix P., Wild P., Fontana J.M., Fournier M.
Cohort mortality study in the French stainless steel industry
Etude épidémiologique de mortalité dans l'industrie de production d'aciers inoxydables en France [in French]
Review of the results of cohort mortality studies carried out in 4 French stainless steel factories to assess possible lung cancer risk in relation with occupational exposures to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, chromium and nickel compounds, silica, acid mists and asbestos (follow up of doc. analyzed under CIS 94-225). The total number of workers in the cohorts was 18,090, 3,077 of whom died during the follow-up periods. A significant low mortality was observed for all causes of death in two factories. A non-significant excess lung cancer mortality was observed in two factories. Significant lung cancer excesses were observed among workers of some work areas and occupations: foundry, ferroalloys and masons. Non-significant lung cancer excesses were observed among coke oven workers and smelters of two factories. The lung cancer excesses observed among coke oven, foundry and ferroalloys workers agree with results previously published in the literature. No significant lung cancer excesses were observed among workers employed in other work areas.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1994, Vol.55, No.8, p.579-588. 57 ref.

CIS 95-1134 Wagner R., Hannig O., Derungs P., Aniset E., Wintquin J., Kremer A.
Ergonomics and maintenance of converters
These three articles briefly describe studies undertaken by the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) related to ergonomic aspects of converter maintenance operations. Topics covered: work load involved in breaking out converter linings and in relining; robotization; use of a hydro-pneumatic clearing machine to reduce physical strain during breaking out of linings; use of a bricklaying robot for lining construction.
Progress in Coal, Steel and Related Social Research, Mar. 1994, No.17, p.16-27. Illus.

CIS 95-1133 VIth Programme of Ergonomics for the ECSC Industries - Results
Results are presented of recently concluded European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) ergonomics projects aimed at improving health, safety and quality of life in underground mining and steelworks. The aims of each project are outlined along with a brief description of the methods used and a summary of the results and conclusions. A few projects focus on training softwares for robotized system operators.
Information Bulletin of the ECSC - Community ergonomics action, July 1994, no.31, p.5-170. Illus.

CIS 95-716 Keck R., Krüger B., Kretschmer R.
Monitoring of scrap and finished products for radioactive elements
Überwachung von Schrott und Fertigprodukten auf radioaktive Bestandteile [in German]
Scrap metal may be contaminated with radioactive components particularly if it comes from medical, research, military equipment or nuclear power plants. Scintillation counters are found suitable for radiation monitoring of scrap metal because all types of radioactivity can be detected. The installation of scintillation counters at the state borders in Germany, at the entrance to the premises of scrap metal dealers, to steelworks and foundries to detect radioactive material in scrap metal carried on trucks and on railway wagons is described and illustrated.
Stahl und Eisen, May 1994, Vol.114, No.5, p.69-77. Illus. 4 ref.

CIS 95-578 Masset D., Malchaire J.
Epidemiologic study of lumbar problems in the steel industry. Associated factors
Etude épidémiologique des problèmes lombaires dans la sidérurgie. Facteurs associés [in French]
A cross sectional epidemiological study was conducted in two Belgian steel plants concerning low-back pain (LBP) and associated factors. The data were collected through interviewing workers. The 147 items of the questionnaire check-list dealt with health, past LBP history, personal characteristics as well as the risk factors in present and past jobs. A random sample of 618 workers was selected from among 2,023 workers <40 years old. Prevalence of LBP (all symptoms) was 66% during the entire life, 53% during the last 12 months and 25% during the last 7 days. The incidence rate was about 5% and independent of the age of the workers. Among all factors investigated, the seven showing a statistically significant association with an increased risk of LBP during the last 12 months are: heavy efforts perceived at the shoulders and long periods of vehicle driving; poor satisfaction with one's health and a greater number of visits to the doctor; a larger family; a higher frequency of abnormal fatigue and depressive feelings. Thus, only two factors related to professional life, the others related to health status and psychosocial characteristics.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1994, Vol.55, No.2, p.103-110. 29 ref.

CIS 95-349 Suadicani P., Hansen K., Fenger A.M., Gyntelberg F.
Low back pain in steelplant workers
A study of 469 steel-plant workers in Denmark revealed that 51% had experienced low back pain during the preceding year. There were strong associations between recent low back pain and both domestic recreational activities and work pace. There was a strong association between a severe low back pain history and lifetime occupational exposure to heavy and frequent lifting at work. It is concluded that domestic activities may be a potential confounding factor in studies on occupational risk factors for low back pain and that there is a case for prevention regarding occupational lifting of heavy loads.
Occupational Medicine, Sep. 1994, Vol.44, No.4, p.217-221. 19 ref.

CIS 94-1784 Vitalis A., Pournaras N.D., Jeffrey G.B., Tsagarakis G., Monastiriotis G., Kavvadias S.
Heart rate strain indices in Greek steelworkers
In the first ergonomics study to be carried out in Greece, the heart rate strain of 14 Greek steelworkers was assessed during the winter and summer months of 1989 and 1990. Activity sampling was used to establish the pattern of work performed and heart rates were measured throughout work shifts. Maximum aerobic capacity was also estimated. The mean heart rate during work was 97 beats/min while the mean relative heart rate increase was 21%. The results indicate that the work performed could be classified as light to moderate.
Ergonomics, May 1994, Vol.37, No.5, p.845-850. 13 ref.

1993

CIS 96-580
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz
Recognition and evaluation of hazards at work
Erkennen und Beurteilen von Gefährdungen bei der Arbeit [in German]
Proceedings of a symposium on the analysis of hazards encountered at work in Dortmund, Germany, on 23 and 24 March 1993. The papers presented at this conference addressed the following subjects: EC directives on occupational safety and conversion into German law; methods of hazard analysis; analysis of hazards which lead to occupational diseases using highway construction as an example; analysis of accident hazards within the construction industry, the production of gear boxes and the work of an engineer who has to design safe equipment; analysis of hazards in plants such as steelworks.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 1993. 275p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 95-2294 Intaranont K., Vanwonterghem K.
Study of the exposure limits in constraining climatic conditions for strenuous tasks: An ergonomic approach
Final report of a 1990-93 research project sponsored by Directorate General XII-G of the Commission of the European Communities and implemented by Chulalongkorn University, Thailand, and CERGO International, Belgium. Anthropometric and work capacity data were collected in an air-conditioned laboratory, after which physiological and environmental measurements were made under real working conditions in five industries (steel, ceramics, agriculture, glass and building construction). Thai workers, both men and women, showed higher heart rates at a given level of oxygen consumption than published values for Europeans. As this is a criterion used to relate wet-bulb globe thermometer (WBGT) readings to the risk of fatigue and heat stress, a set of curves relating WBGT to workload for various work-rest schedules was developed to fit the Thai situation. The field observations revealed ergonomic problems other than those related to temperature (e.g., repetitive work in ceramics packing).
Chulalongkorn University, Laboratory for Ergonomics Research, Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Bangkok 10330, Thailand, Jan. 1994. ix, 183p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 94-1606 Ball J., Procter D.
The zero accident approach at British Steel, Teesside works
The potential hazards within an integrated steelworks are outlined and the development of an accident prevention programme is described. Total Quality was adopted as the driving force for changing attitude and culture. The new approach to accident prevention was set within four basic parameters (positive safety, plant level planning, supervisory focus, utilization of social processes) which were then translated into a 10 point plan for improvement. The implementation of the plan is described along with examples of achievements. A table shows overall reduction in all injuries and in lost-time injuries.
Loss Prevention Bulletin, June 1993, No.111, p.5-11. Illus.

CIS 94-915 Iron- and metal transformation industry
Jern- og metal industrien [in Danish]
Volume No.2 of a series of monographs covering occupational safety and health in all sectors of the Danish economy. It covers the metal industry. The major work environmental problems in this sector are accidents, noise exposure, chemical substances, ergonomical issues. The sector has reported a relatively large number of occupational injuries.
Direktoratet for Arbejdstilsynet, Landskronagade 33-35, 2100 København Ø, Denmark, 1993. 80p. 32 ref. Price: DKK 100.00.

CIS 94-917 Metal and steel production, foundries and electricity and heat generating plants
Metal- stålværker og støberier, el- og varmeværker [in Danish]
Volume No.1 of a series of monographs covering occupational safety and health in all sectors of the Danish economy. It covers the metal production industries, foundries and electricity and district heat plants. The major work environmental problems in these sectors are accidents, noise exposure, air contaminants, heavy workload and vibrations (Raynaud's phenomenon).
Direktoratet for Arbejdstilsynet, Landskronagade 33-35, 2100 København Ø, Denmark, 1993. 66p. 22 ref. Price: DKK 100.00.

CIS 94-214 Chau N., Bertrand J.P., Mur J.M., Figueredo A., Patris A., Moulin J.J., Pham Q.T.
Mortality in retired coke oven plant workers
Mortality study of a cohort of retired coke workers in Lorraine Collieries (France). Excess mortality from lung cancer (SMR=238) was found. Significant excess mortality was also found for all causes in the cohort as a whole, as well as in subjects who had worked near the ovens and in those who had worked in byproducts, but not in those in the workshops and those working underground. Various other significant excess deaths were found for certain cancers and for cardiovascular diseases in different sub-cohorts. The impact of the healthy worker effect on the results is discussed.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 1993, Vol.50, No.2, p.127-135. 50 ref.

CIS 93-2089
Directorate-General Employment, Industrial Relations and Social Affairs, Directorate for Health and Safety
Ergonomics action in the steel industry. The results of the fifth ECSC programme
L'action ergonomique dans la sidérurgie. Les résultats du cinquième programme CECA [in French]
Compilation of projects reports undertaken within the 5th ECSC programme. The reports appear as summary presentations which would be available in conference proceedings. For each project, information is given on: duration and aims of the project, methods and aims of the research, conclusions, results detailed in a tabular format.
Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 2985 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, 1993. 427p. Illus. Price: ECU 51.00.

1992

CIS 94-301 Mora V., Pairon J.C., Garnier R., Laureillard J., Lionnet F., Hoguet L., Schaeffer A., Efthymiou M.L., Brochard P.
Acute arsine poisoning in a ferrous metal foundry: Report on two cases
Intoxication aiguë par l'hydrogène arsénié dans une fonderie de métaux ferreux. A propos de deux observations [in French]
Acute arsine poisoning was observed in 2 workers employed in a ferrous metal foundry. One presented an acute haemolysis with acute renal failure, requiring haemodialysis. Renal function slowly recovered but high blood pressure was observed secondarily. The 2nd case presented as predominantly cytolytic hepatitis on the 20th day after acute haemolysis. The evolution was rapidly resolutive, with no transfusion needed. The hypothesis of a causal role of arsine intoxication in this hepatitis is therefore possible. Subsequent atmospheric measurements in the workplace showed detectable amounts of arsine during the shovelling of the scories: results were < or equal to the threshold limit value when the operations were performed in dry conditions. In contrast, an atmospheric level of 60ppm was observed when water was added to the scories. This could be due to arsenical impurities present in ferrosilicium and calcium carbide used in the foundry. These observations underline the potential risk of arsine intoxication in such industries and raise the possibility of a delayed cytolytic hepatitis.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1992, Vol.53, No.3, p.167-173. Illus. 21 ref.

CIS 94-225 Moulin J.J., Mantout B., Portefaix P., Wild P., Fournier-Betz M., Mur J.M., Smagghe G.
Historical prospective mortality study in two stainless steel factories
Etude épidémiologique de mortalité dans deux aciéries d'acier inoxydable [in French]
An historical prospective mortality study was carried out among the workers of 2 steel factories producing ferro-chromium and stainless steel to assess lung cancer risks related to occupational exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, silica, chromium and nickel compounds. The cohorts included 2,269 workers (A) and 4,227 (B). The observed numbers of deaths were respectively 137 and 484 (SMRs 0.82 and 1.02) after adjustment. No significant lung cancer excess mortality was observed for stainless steel production workers in either factory, in workers exposed to chromium VI in B. However, a significant excess of lung cancer mortality was observed for workers employed in the ferro-chromium production in A, though not in B. A significant lung cancer excess was observed for foundry workers of B. According to available data on smoking habits of the study population, it can be concluded that the significant lung cancer risks observed in this study are unlikely to be explained by smoking.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1992, Vol.53, No.3, p.157-166. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 93-140 Wakabayashi M., Yoshida C., Tanaka M., Horie S., Masumoto T., Hiramot Y., Okawa H.
Analysis of sudden death cases due to heart attack in a steel works
Jūgyōin no shinzō kyūshi rei ni tsuite no kentō [in Japanese]
From 1984 to 1989, nine cases of sudden death due to heart attack were reported in employees of a steel works. In all cases, regular health checks prior to onset of symptoms did not reveal cerebral vascular or circulatory disorders. Possible risk factors were examined in these cases. Statistical analyses of eight parameters (obesity, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and uric acid levels) showed that the significant risk factors involved were low HDL cholesterol level and heavy smoking.
Journal of Labour Hygiene in the Iron and Steel Industry - Tekko Rōdō Eisei, Feb. 1992, Vol.39, No.2, p.18-24. 7 ref.

CIS 93-162 Bonde J.P.E., Olsen J.H., Hansen K.S.
Adverse pregnancy outcome and childhood malignancy with reference to paternal welding exposure
This study examines reproductive end points in a Danish cohort of 10,059 metalworkers who fathered 3,569 children in 1973 through 1986. Occupational histories were gathered by postal questionnaires. Information on pregnancy outcomes and offspring was obtained by record linkage to medical registers. The occurrence of reduced birthweight, preterm delivery, infant mortality, and congenital malformation was not increased among children at risk from paternal welding exposure in comparison with children not at risk. The overall incidence of childhood malignancies among 23,264 children born in 1968 through 1986 with a total of 259,113 person-years of follow-up was equal to national rates (relative risk 0.97, 95% confidence interval 0.63-1.42). However, pregnancies preceding a birth at risk from paternal exposure to stainless steel welding were more often terminated by spontaneous abortion (odds ratio 1.9, 95% confidence interval 1.1-3.2). This finding needs cautious interpretation and the effects of exposure to welding on spermatogenesis should be further investigated.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, June 1992, Vol.18, No.3, p.169-177. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 93-160 Andjelkovich D.A., Mathew R.M., Yu R.C., Richardson R.B., Levine R.J.
Mortality of iron foundry workers: II. Analysis by work area
Plantwide analyses of the mortality experience of 8,147 foundrymen revealed excesses for several diseases including lung cancer. Using indirect measures of smoking, it appeared that most, if not all, of the excess of lung cancer deaths could be explained by smoking habits. To explore further the possible association between these mortality excesses and foundry exposures, jobs were grouped into six work areas on the basis of similarities in production processes. No evidence was found of a relationship between lung cancer and foundry exposures. The pattern of mortality from emphysema and cerebrovascular disease in the different work areas paralleled that of lung cancer, suggesting that mortality from these diseases may have been influenced by a common aetiologic agent, probably tobacco smoke. The data also reveal possible associations between metal pattern-making and colon cancer, silica or metal dust and stomach cancer, and carbon monoxide and ischaemic heart disease. For Part I of this study, see CIS 93-159.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Apr. 1992, Vol.34, No.4, p.391-401. Illus. 39 ref.

CIS 92-1905 Dasgupta A.K.
Epilepsy and employability: A comparative evaluation of epileptic employees working in the steel plants of India
Information on seizures and provoking factors, occupational status, shift work, overtime, home and work place adjustment was obtained from 176 epileptic employees working in hazardous, less hazardous and non-hazardous areas of steel plants in India. Accidents at work and sickness absence were also assessed in 44 epileptics. An overall comparison was made between Group A hazardous (63) and Group B less/non-hazardous (76) of the total of 139 epileptic employees over a three year period. Group A performed better than Group B. When compared with 77 employees with occupational dermatoses, 139 epileptics did more fixed shifts and had less promotion.
Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1992, Vol.42, No.3, p.137-142. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 92-489 Recent developments in the iron and steel industry - Report I
Evolution récente dans l'industrie du fer et de l'acier - Rapport I [in French]
This report provides information to serve as a basis for discussion at the Twelfth Session of the ILO Iron and Steel Committee. Part 1 reviews some of the main recent events in the iron and steel industry. Part 2 summarises the actions taken in various countries in the light of the conclusions and resolutions adopted at previous sessions of the Committee. This section includes action taken on health and safety and provides data on occupational accidents, safety and health training, problems of the working environment and environmental and legislative issues. Part 3 gives details of the steps taken by the ILO to meet the requests of previous meetings.
ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1992. vi, 106p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: CHF 17.50.

CIS 92-488 Training in the iron and steel industry - Report II
La formation dans l'industrie du fer et de l'acier - Rapport II [in French]
This report provides information to serve as a basis for discussion at the Twelfth Session of the ILO Iron and Steel Committee. It focusses on the differences in levels of economic and technological development in the iron and steel industry and their implications for training and educational problems and policies. The industry is dealt with in three parts: western Europe, North America and Japan; the USSR and Eastern Europe; and developing countries. Each section contains a description of the industry in each area, current training systems, environmental aspects of training and possible future policies.
ILO Publications, International Labour Office, 1211 Genève 22, Switzerland, 1992. 32p. Bibl.ref. Price: CHF 12.50.

1991

CIS 93-1011 Asselineau M., Ravenstijn A., Heringa P., Danière P., Arbey H.S.
Noise from gas distribution circuits in the steel industry - Inventory of potential sources
Bruit des circuits de transport de gaz dans l'industrie sidérurgique - Inventaire des sources sonores potentielles [in French]
An inventory of noise sources in these circuits was conducted at a number of steelworks. Measurements were made on the blast-furnace lines, on the agglomerating or coking units and on the oxygen supply system. The main sources of noise were fans and control valves, where sound levels often exceeded 85dB(A). Other external noise sources were identified, such as the air intakes of the fans and compressors (sound level above 85dB(A) at 1m). The piping was not an important source of radiation: the level of radiated sound was generally below that of ambient noise.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Apr. 1991. 77p. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 93-171 Echenagusía V.M., Aurrecoechea J.J.
Analysis of sickness absenteeism in an integrated steel plant
Análisis del absentismo por enfermedad en una siderurgia integral [in Spanish]
In order to identify risk groups, a study on the incidence of sickness absenteeism as an indicator of morbidity was carried out in a Spanish siderurgical plant with 4,500 workers. Variables examined were: age, sex, hours of work and shift system, and chronic medication. The results showed that absenteeism was more frequent among young workers. However, the incidence of sick-leave exceeding two months was higher in individuals aged more than 50 and in those undergoing long-term medical treatment. With respect to women, morbidity was higher than in men, but it should be noted that maternity leave is considered as sickness absenteeism. No differences were found concerning the effects of hours of work or shift systems on morbidity. Statistics are included.
Prevención, Apr.-June 1991, No.116, p.42-46. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 92-2044 Schwarze S.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz
Long-term noise exposure and health
Langjährige Lärmbelastung und Gesundheit [in German]
A group of 164 workers with hearing impairment was interviewed to determine the occupational noise exposure. In addition, extensive medical examinations were performed. No significant relationship was found between systolic blood pressure and hearing loss. Systolic blood pressure was more closely associated with subjectively perceived noise annoyance than with the average life-time noise exposure level. For a group of 547 workers in the German iron and steel industry the causes of sickness absenteeism were determined. No connection with noise exposure could be found. In annex: sample questionnaire for medical diagnosis; incidence of past and present pathologies; results of clinical and audiometric examinations in 164 subjects suffering from hearing impairment; sample questionnaire on noise exposure. Detailed summaries in German, English and French.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, Am Alten Hafen 113-115, D-W-2850 Bremerhaven 1, Germany, 1991. 300p. Illus. ca. 350 ref. Price: DEM 44.00.

CIS 92-1894 Corhay J.L., Delavignette J.P., Bury T., Roelandts I., Weber G., Radermecker M.F.
Mineralogical analysis of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of steel workers
Analyse minéralogique du liquide de lavage broncho-alvéolaire de sidérurgistes [in French]
In order to investigate pulmonary asbestos or metal burden in a steel-plant environment, 75 steel workers (blast-furnace or coke-oven) underwent a bronchoalveolar lavage. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid recovered was analysed: dosage and analysis of asbestos bodies by optic and electron microscopy, dosage of trace-elements by the P.I.X.E. method (Particle-Induced X-ray Emission). 86 subjects with no professional exposure to industrial dust were studied as controls. This study shows that steel workers had a non trivial pulmonary burden of amphiboles, especially maintenance workers, in comparison with controls. On the other hand, an occult exposure to amphiboles in steel workers who denied any contact with asbestos was shown. Alveolar macrophages of steel workers (especially blast-furnace workers) contain more Fe, Br, Ti, Cu, Sr and some elements with potentially carcinogenic effects (Cr, As).
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1991, Vol.52, No.5, p.339-344. Illus. 23 ref.

CIS 92-1644 Wennberg A., Iregren A., Struwe G., Cizinsky G., Hagman M., Johansson L.
Manganese exposure in steel smelters - A health hazard for the nervous system
Study of the effects of low-level exposure to manganese (0.19-1.39mg/m³ for 1-45 years) on 30 men (aged 20-64 years) from two steel smelting works and 60 unexposed referents (aged 22-65 years). The investigation covered: a general health inquiry, electroencephalography (EEG), brain-stem and cerebral auditory evoked potentials, diadochokinesometry, simple and complex reaction time, finger tapping, digit span, mental arithmetic, vocabulary, a coding task, manual dexterity, diagnostic interview scheme, dynamic rating scale for neurasthenic syndrome, and a comprehensive psychopathological rating scale. No group differences were found concerning health, the EEG or the psychiatric examinations. However, the diadochokinesis was slower, the P-300 latency and reaction time were increased, and finger-tapping and digit-span performance were impaired in the exposed group. The effects are interpreted as early (subclinical) signs of disturbances of the same type as parkinsonism. (A longer version of this article was published as a Swedish-language monograph in 1990, see CIS 91-949).
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Aug. 1991, Vol.17, No.4, p.255-262. Illus. 22 ref.

CIS 92-1208 Vth "Ergonomics" programme for the ECSC's industries
Ve Programme "Ergonomie" pour les industries de la CECA [in French]
This Bulletin contains summaries of projects carried out till Dec. 1991 within the "Ergonomic" Programme for the industries of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). The cumulative index indicates results published in other issues of the Bulletin. A list of newly accepted future projects is given.
Bulletin d'information - CECA, Dec. 1991, No.27, 138p. Illus.

CIS 92-1207 Vth "Ergonomics" programme for the ECSC's industries
Ve Programme "Ergonomie" pour les industries de la CECA [in French]
This bulletin contains summaries of projects carried out till July 1991 within the "Ergonomic" Programme for the industries of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC). The cumulative index indicates the results published in other issues of the Bulletin. A list of newly accepted future projects is given. A bibliography on the international ergonomic literature is appended.
Bulletin d'information - CECA, July 1991, n°26, 149p. + Appendix 13p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 92-814 Guidelines for manual handling in the steel industry
Illustrated training guide to the rules of safe manual handling in the steel industry. Specific solutions are suggested to the following common problems: converter and ladle lining; finishing laminated products; loading long products; remote control of locomotives and travelling cranes; maintenance of machines and installations; workshop maintenance; cable handling; container handling; handling of equipment and materials for production installations.
Community Ergonomics Action, European Coal and Steel Community, P.O. Box 237, 2012 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, 1991. 53p. Illus.

CIS 92-207 Kronenberg R.S., Levin J.L., Dodson R.F., Garcia J.G.N., Griffith D.E.
Asbestos-related disease in employees of a steel mill and a glass bottle manufacturing plant
This report presents preliminary observations on the prevalence of asbestos-related disease in workers at two industrial sites not generally associated with asbestos exposure: a glass bottle manufacturing plant and a steel mill.
Toxicology and Industrial Health, Jan.-Mar. 1991, Vol.7, No.1/2, p.73-79. 9 ref.

CIS 91-1542 Finkelstein M.M.
Use of 'time windows' to investigate lung cancer latency intervals at an Ontario steel plant
This paper describes an application of the time windows method to an examination of the temporal pattern of lung cancer risk among steel workers. Case-control methodology was utilised. The cases were 36 men who had died of lung cancer and the controls were 289 men who had died of any other cause. The number of years of employment in the steel pouring areas was used as a surrogate measure of exposure. The data were examined by contingency table analysis and by logistic regression, which permitted adjustment for exposures in multiple time windows and the use of continuous, rather than categorical, measures of exposure. It was found that lung cancer risk was associated with exposures occurring between 18 and 30yrs before death. It cannot yet be determined whether this time course reflects a biological response or the temporal pattern of exposure to an as yet unidentified toxic agent.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 1991, Vol.19, No.2, p.229-235. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 91-1541 Finkelstein M.M., Boulard M., Wilk N.
Increased risk of lung cancer in the melting department of a second Ontario steel manufacturer
A study of lung cancer among workers at an electric arc steel-making operation was performed to follow up on the observation of a lung cancer cluster in the melt shop of another plant. The study group comprised 335 deceased men identified from plant records. Eight of 30 men who had ever worked in the pouring pit area died of lung cancer (PMR 276; p<0.01), but increased risk was not found elsewhere in the melting department. There was a significant trend in lung cancer risk with the length of employment in the pit area during a time window 18-30yrs before death. An industrial hygiene assessment found present exposures to carcinogenic metals and silica to be within current guidelines. No polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were detected. This is the 2nd steel plant for which an increased risk of lung cancer has been found in the pouring areas. The causative factors have not yet been identified.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 1991, Vol.19, No.2, p.183-194. Illus. 8 ref.

1990

CIS 93-159 Andjelkovich D.A., Mathew R.M., Richardson R.B., Levine R.J.
Mortality of iron foundry workers: I. Overall findings
Report on a retrospective cohort mortality study of 8,147 men and 627 women employed in a Michigan (US) iron foundry for at least six months during 1950-1979. During the 35-year observation period, more than 1,700 deaths occurred among the workers observed. Significantly high Standardised Mortality Ratios (SMRs) occurred among non-white workers for lung cancer (SMR 132) and ischaemic heart disease (SMR 126). These high SMRs, as well as other, non-significant, increases in morality (for other diseases in non-whites, for all such increases in whites) may be attributed to smoking habits. A lack of a trend with length of employment suggests that lung cancer mortality may not be associated with exposure to the foundry environment. For Part II of this study, see CIS 93-160.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, June 1990, Vol.32, No.6, p.529-540. Illus. 68 ref.

CIS 92-683 Müller B.H., Peters H., Hettinger T.
Tabular surveys as a method of evaluating stress at work
Übersichtstabellen als Mittel für die zusammenfassende Bewertung der Belastungssituation [in German]
The methods of determining stress at work, environmental conditions at the workplace and the work organisation are outlined. They comprise measurements, objective observations and subjective assessments of the health risks, the job satisfaction and the physical workload. An evaluation of stress factors encountered at various jobs in the iron and steel industry is presented in tabular form as an example.
Die BG, Nov. 1990, No.11, p.670-674. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 92-163 Moulin J.J., Portefaix P., Wild P., Mur J.M., Smagghe G., Mantout B.
Mortality study among workers producing ferroalloys and stainless steel in France
Study of a cohort comprising 2269 men whose vital status was recorded between 1 Jan. 1952 and 31 Dec. 1982 to determine a cause/effect relationship between lung cancer and exposure to chromium, nickel and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). The smoking habits of 67% of the cohort members were known from medical records. The observed numbers of deaths were compared with the expected ones based on national rates with adjustment for age, sex, and calendar time. A low mortality, achieving statistical significance, was found from all causes and from benign respiratory diseases. Among the exposed workers, a significant lung cancer excess was found that contrasted with a low frequency in the non-exposed group. This excess is unlikely to be explained by smoking, as the tobacco consumption of these 2 groups was similar. A nested case-control study clearly suggested that this excess of deaths from lung cancer was attributable to former PAH exposures in the ferrochromium production workshops rather than to exposures in the stainless steel manufacturing areas.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 1990, Vol.47, No.8, p.537-543. 23 ref.

CIS 92-142 Bonde J.P.
Semen quality in welders before and after three weeks of non-exposure
In a cross sectional field study concerning the male reproductive system in metalworkers, the major findings were a moderate deterioration of semen quality in mild steel welders and less reliable changes in semen quality in low exposed stainless steel welders. In the present study, a longitudinal design was adopted to deal with methodological drawbacks inherent in the cross sectional approach. The study relies on the assumption that the effect of welding is causal and reversible. The semen quality of 19 mild steel welders, 18 stainless steel welders and 16 non-welding metalworkers was examined before and 3, 5, and 8 weeks after a 3-week break in exposure (summer vacation). The results indicate either a non-causal nature of reported associations between welding exposure and poor semen quality or that the effect of welding is non-reversible within the rather short non-exposure period.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 1990, Vol.47, No.8, p.515-518. 13 ref.

CIS 91-1891 Bonde J.P., Hansen K.S., Levine R.J.
Fertility among Danish male welders
Welding may be detrimental to the male reproductive system. Fertility was examined in a Danish cohort of 3702 male metalworkers over a follow-up of 47,674 person-years. Occupational histories were gathered by postal questionnaires. Information on births was obtained by record linkage to the Danish Central Population Register. Among persons who had ever workerd as welders, the probability of having a child was slightly reduced the year after a year of welding exposure. The reduction in fertility was associated with the welding of mild steel, but not with the welding of stainless steel. These findings are consistent with results of previous studies of time to conception and semen quality in welders.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, Oct. 1990, Vol.16, No.5, p.315-322. Illus. 14 ref.

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