bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SS07-08 EFFECT OF NON-FACE-TO-FACE FIREFIGHTER SLEEP DISORDER INTERVENTION PROGRAM DURING COVID-19
Authors: Ahn Yeon-Soon , Jeong Kyoung Sook , Hong Yujin , Song Suah , Lee Youjin , Cho Ayeong , Suh Sooyeon , Lee Sangha
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Firefighters experience irregular sleep patterns and sleep disturbance due to shift work. Online cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) can be an accessible and effective treatment when considering the work environment of firefighters. The purpose of this field study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an online sleep intervention (FIT-INdividual) tailored to firefighters.

Materials and Methods

Ninety-nine firefighters (mean age = 37.8 ± 9.1, male 86.9%) participated in four 33 weekly sessions to improve sleep. All participants completed a weekly sleep diary and the following questionnaires before and after the intervention: the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Disturbing Dream and Nightmare Severity Index (DDNSI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep-16 (DBAS-16), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), PTSD Checklist-5 (PCL-5).

Results

Sleep onset latency, and wake after sleep onset decreased significantly following the intervention (ps < .01). In addition, sleep efficiency increased significantly (ps < .001). There were also significant improvements for ISI, DDNSI, ESS, FSS, DBAS-16, PHQ-9, and PCL-5 scores (ps < .05).

Conclusions

Significant improvements in sleep and psychological indices were observed for firefighters receiving an online sleep intervention. FIT-INdividual can be a therapeutic option for active firefighters experiencing sleep difficulties during times such as COVID-19 when face-to-face contact must be reduced.
SS08-05 AN INVESTIGATION INTO HAZARDS, CONTROLS AND ENHANCEMENT OF PROTECTIVE WORKPLACE PRACTICES IN ARTISANAL AND SMALL-SCALE GOLD MINING IN ZIMBABWE
Authors: Singo Josephine
Published: July 2024

Background

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) accounts for more than 50% of national gold production, contributing to sustainable livelihood and economic development in Zimbabwe. However, ASGM in Zimbabwe involves semi-mechanisation and high-risk underground mining processes with compromised workplace practices.

Methods

Triangulation and method mixing were applied through cross-sectional survey; risk assessment; in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. The Kadoma and Shurugwi mining towns were purposefully selected. The Kish Leslie formula was used to calculate a representative sample. Binary logistic regression analysis was applied for quantitative data. Qualitative data was coded and analysed through thematic analysis. Method mixing was applied during data collection and analysis.

Results

Numerous hazards and risks, lacking effective control measures and compromised protective measures, were confirmed. Mercury pollution, accidents, injuries, HIV, TB, malaria risk, as well as alcohol and drug use, were found. The odds of experiencing health and safety risks increased when exposed to underground mining, long working hours, workplace violence and equipment use. Informal practices such as mining activities within homesteads, underground mining near riverbanks and ASGM activities on agriculture sites were revealed. Disabling causal factors contributing to compromised workplace risk management included human, workplace, ASGM-related and contextual factors. Men were more vulnerable to injuries while women occupied peripheral roles. Proposed risk mitigation layers included formalisation, organisation of protective workplace practices and behaviour change. However, each mitigation layer was characterised by gaps and limitations.

Conclusion

ASGM in Zimbabwe is characterised by numerous hazards, compromised control measures, disabling causal factors, and shortcomings in risk mitigation.
SS10-05 THE INDICATIONS OF THE ITALIAN ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL RADIATION PROTECTION (AIRM) FOR THE HEALTH SURVEILLANCE OF WORKERS EXPOSED TO IONIZING RADIATION
Authors: Castellani Giulia , Taino Giuseppe , Modenese Alberto , De Luca Giuseppe , Moccaldi Roberto
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The Italian transposition of the Directive 2013/59/EURATOM (i.e. Legislative Decree 101/2020) includes relevant updates and innovations on the OHS related to ionizing radiation (IR) risk, including the health surveillance (HS) of exposed workers, that in Italy can be provided only by a specifically qualified medical practitioner named “Authorized Physician”.

Methods

According to the normative changes and to the new scientific knowledge, the Italian Association of Medical Radiation Protection (AIRM) updated its workers’ HS guidelines published in 2013, with a new handbook containing full operational indications for the Authorized Physicians, released in 2022.

Results

The new AIRM indications are entitled "The health surveillance of workers exposed to ionizing radiation. A handbook for the Authorized Physician” and provide updated scientific based praxis for the daily professional activity of the medical practitioners in charge for the HS of IR-exposed workers, following the current Italian and EU legislation. The text includes 21 chapters, exploring the main issues of medical radiation protection: radiobiology, deterministic and stochastic effects, principles of radiation-induced carcinogenic processes, the basis of risk assessment (including principles of physical surveillance and calculation of the detriment for the stochastic risk), HS and fitness-for-work, the Probability of Causation method and its applications, the health management of radiological and nuclear emergencies.

Conclusions

The new AIRM handbook for medical practitioners in charge of the HS of IR-exposed workers presents a comprehensive panorama of the medical radiation protection discipline, with up-to-date indications consistent with the latest EU Directive 2013/59/EURATOM.
SS11-03 CURRICULUM OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE (OEM) TO BE ADAPTED TO THE AFRICAN CONTEXT
Authors: Gasana Janvier , Cloeren Marianne , Omokhodion Folashade
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Teaching occupational and environmental medicine (OEM) is limited, the situation getting dire in Africa with critical shortages of health workers while increasing numbers of workers are employed in high-hazard industrial jobs.

Methods

Publications on OEM training in the last 20 years were retrieved from PubMed and other search engines. Inclusion criteria were occupational medicine / environmental medicine / OEM, training, and diploma in the title or abstract or ‘OEM’ in text.

Results

Out of 4,095 publications, 20 that met inclusion criteria were reviewed. OEM training formats were in-person, online, or hybrid (in-person/online), use of case studies / didactic sessions / workplace field visits / videos / text-based readings and online discussion forum. Diplomas, certificates, and degrees in OEM were awarded. The five basic public health areas (environmental / occupational health, epidemiology / biostatistics, health policy / management, social / behavioral sciences, and public health practice) for OEM training diploma seems suitable to the African context.

Conclusions

Diplomas in OEM may be a shortcut for the shortage of OEM practitioners while schools are working on strengthening OEM given that occupational health is increasingly recognized as area of importance in Africa. Limited studies of occupational disease and injury in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing showed high prevalence of work-related diseases among workers and serious impact of workplaces on surrounding populations and environment in the context of limited or non-existent occupational / environmental regulations. E-learning discussion forum and workplace field visits showed better results for acquisition of OEM knowledge and skills while reading textbooks provided good foundational knowledge.
SS14 NANOMATERIAL WORKERS' HEALTH: STATE OF THE ART, PERSPECTIVES, AND CHALLENGES
Authors: Iavicoli Ivo
Published: July 2024

The special session “Nanomaterial workers' health: State of the art, perspectives, and challenges” aims to provide an overview on the current knowledge, future perspectives and critical issues for nanomaterials risk assessment and management that need to be addressed to protect the health of workers involved in research, manufacturing, production, and disposal of nanomaterials and/or nano-enabled products.

Therefore, the proposed contributions will provide an update on exposure evaluation, with particular attention to the nanomaterials’ intrinsic and extrinsically acquired features potentially influencing such assessment, and biological monitoring that may overall contribute to the evaluation of the internal doses, as well as to identify early adverse biological alterations in occupationally exposed populations.

The session will point out the relevance to proceed with epidemiological investigations in the nanomaterials’ field as a helpful means to sustain a responsible development of nanotechnologies. In this view, the ethical and sustainable strategies that have been providing guidance in nanotechnology development will characterize a model for the responsible implementation of other emerging technologies and forms of work fostering safe development and realization of societal and commercial benefits and conditions of decent work for all.
SS15 PROACTIVE APPROACH TO ACCIDENT PREVENTION THROUGH RISK MANAGEMENT
Authors: Michell Karen
Published: July 2024

A safe and healthy working environment is a fundamental principle and right at work (ILO) and this together with the growing need to create social sustainability within organisations, their working conditions, and the workplace creates an environment where effective occupational injury, ill health and disease prevention are imperative. The management of risk can be challenging but even more so when it is applied in high risk sectors. Risk management strategies provide an understanding of the risks associated with given work-related hazards and activities while enabling effective controls to be applied to prevent adverse events.

This session will explore the risks associated with vulnerable and high-risk sectors i.e. high-risk industries such as oil and gas, as well as small- and medium-sized enterprises and provide insights into how injury and disease prevention as well as a safe and healthy work for all can be achieved.
SS15-01 RISK PREVENTION PRACTICES IN SMES AND THEIR IMPACT ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH PERFORMANCE
Authors: Rodrigues Matilde A , Sá Ana , Oliveira Alexandra , Mais Donato , Boustras Georgios , da Silva Manuela Vieira
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are acknowledged to face various challenges with regard to risk prevention practices. However, data about certain sectors of activity remain limited. The RISKsME project aimed to characterize these practices in some critical sectors, dominated by SMEs. This work aims to summarize the findings from a sample of waste management firms.

Materials and Methods

A total of 65 waste management firms participated in the study, including the employers and 279 employees. Data about risk prevention practices were collected through different sources, such as questionnaires applied to employers and employees, as well as the analysis of documents and records available at the enterprise. The enterprises were also characterized in relation to the level of safety performance. This analysis was based on a summative index, which assesses seven safety performance aspects.

Results

Constraints were identified within several companies, encompassing not only prevention activities like risk assessment, training, and accident recording, but also concerning the involvement of employers and employees in occupational safety and health (OSH) practices. Regression models indicated the significance of factors such as the time allocated by employers to address OSH issues, the support by external advisory services, employee motivation for safety, and the level of organizational commitment, in influencing safety performance.

Conclusions

Findings reveal waste management firms face several problems in terms of risk prevention. Ongoing research aims to design interventions for both employees and employers.
SS16-01 METHODOLOGY FOR CONTROLLING RISKS GENERATED BY SUBCONTRACTORS: CONTRIBUTION FROM THE MOROCCAN RISK OBSERVATORY (OMARISK)
Authors: Ibenrissoul Abdelmajid
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In parallel with the work to develop the national framework relating to the management of risks generated by subcontracted activities, the Moroccan Risk Observatory (OMARISK) worked on a methodology allowing an economic evaluation of the implementation of a risk management approach by external companies. This assessment clearly highlights the costs and benefits of risk management at the national level, at the company level, but also at the worker level. It can therefore prove to be a valuable instrument for promoting good practices. The economic evaluation also reveals under which circumstances the economic benefits will be insufficient to encourage the adoption of risk management measures within companies.

Method

Based on the results of feedback and surveys carried out by the OMARISK team, a methodology was developed to enable an economic evaluation to be carried out in the form of a cost-benefit analysis linked to the implementation of a risk management approach in subcontracting companies.

Result

Data and results that will feed and enrich the database on professional risk management.

Discussion

Presentation of the methodology, first results as well as future steps.

Conclusion

The cost-benefit analysis will provide concrete arguments to raise awareness among all stakeholders to integrate risk management into their managerial practices.
SS17-01 MIGRANT WORKERS IN THE TEA PLANTATION SECTOR
Authors: Mittal Ashish
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The Indian tea industry being almost 172 years old, occupies a significant and distinct position in the Indian economy. The majority of tea plantations in India are located in rural hills and backward regions of the Northern, Eastern and Southern states. With more than 13,000 gardens and over two million workers, the Indian tea industry is one of the largest in the world. The majority of the labour force in tea plantation are migrants and their descendants.

Materials and Methods

A secondary literature review was combined with personal conversations with workers and managers of tea estates from tea plantation states of India - Assam, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.

Results

The colonial British, heavily influenced by the experiences of cotton plantations in North America and the sugar plantations of British Guyana and the Caribbean Islands, continued to employ migrant labour in tea plantations of Assam and the plains of Darjeeling. They were mainly from the tribal belt of Chotanagpur and Santhal Pargana regions of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Orissa belonging to scheduled castes, tribes and ethnic minorities. In Darjeeling hills, almost the entire labour force are descendants of migrants from Nepal. There were consistent poor living and working conditions, lowest wages, malnutrition, minimal health services and legal coverage, increasing number of accidents and natural disasters and closure of many tea plantations pushing these workers to the edge of survival.

Conclusions

Depleted conditions of migrant tea plantation workers need further research with focus on improving their living and working conditions, especially of the women labourers.
SS17-03 RESEARCH ON THE IMPACT OF THE ‘BASIC MEDICAL TREATMENT AND ASSISTANCE FOR MIGRANT WORKERS WITH PNEUMOCONIOSIS IN HUNAN PROVINCE’ PROGRAM
Authors: Huang Lei
Published: July 2024

Introduction/Background

In early 2017, Hunan Province initiated the "Basic Medical Treatment and Assistance for Migrant Workers with Pneumoconiosis in Hunan Province" program. Its aim was to benefit the people by increasing the proportion of basic medical reimbursement and implementing special financial funds. This program helped to alleviate the burden on migrant workers suffering from pneumoconiosis.

Objective

To assess the impact of the "Basic Medical Treatment and Assistance for Migrant Workers with Pneumoconiosis in Hunan Province" project on the local population.

Materials and Methods

Utilizing the data sourced from the pneumoconiosis rescue module of the Hunan Occupational Disease Prevention and Control Information System, an analysis was conducted on the province-wide implementation of the Benefiting People Project spanning from 2017 to 2022.

Results

Between 2017 and 2022, specific institutions in our province provided treatment and aid to 115,200 migrant workers suffering from pneumoconiosis. The cost of hospitalization for these workers has decreased significantly, from 6566 yuan to 382 yuan, and the self-payment ratio has also decreased from 70% to 4.88%.

Conclusions

The program designed to enhance the well-being of individuals has effectively mitigated the healthcare costs for migrant workers afflicted with pneumoconiosis, while simultaneously fostering a sentiment of stability within the community.
SS18-02 WELLBEING AT WORK: PROTECTIVE FACTORS OF MENTAL HEALTH IN HEALTH WORKERS
Authors: Salmen-Navarro Acran
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Many health workers neglect their self-care and find it difficult to ask for help when their distress results in a mental disorder. Their sense of duty leads them to maintain a high level of awareness and commitment and may contribute to delay seeking help when suffering from a mental disorder.

Materials and Methods

We have piloted organizational interventions involving strategies that considered various criteria - physical, psychosocial, epidemiological, operational and administrative to rotate employees in different positions from high – low – high functions. These are all aimed at reducing stigma and improving access to behavioural health services for the healthcare workforce, combined with fostering human resilience to improve mental and often physical health, reduce the total cost of care, reduce suicide, and support a healthy workforce.

Results

Our findings suggest that these strategies and actions, result in jobs under multifunctional rotation schemes that reduce psychosocial risks and improve workers' perception of them, which has a positive influence on various aspects of the organization to improve health and wellbeing of healthcare staff.

Conclusion

The field of healthcare has long recognized the immense challenges faced by its dedicated workforce. The factors contributing to mental distress among health workers are multifaceted. However, protective factors can be implemented to support the mental health of these essential individuals. Our findings underscore the potential benefits of proactive, holistic approaches that not only mitigate the negative impact of these challenges but also foster resilience and support a healthy, dedicated healthcare workforce.
SS19-05 A HARMONIZED LANGUAGE OF GLOBAL OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH: ICOH PERSPECTIVES - NORDIC AND GLOBAL COLLABORATION FOR OSH IMPACT
Authors: Kang Seong-Kyu
Published: July 2024

Globalization has significantly impacted global occupational health, thrusting it into the international spotlight.

Occupational health status varies worldwide due to differences in economic, social, and legal systems, which can be categorized into three stages. The first phase involves occupational health conditions resulting from external environmental hazards. While high-income nations have effectively tackled these issues, low and middle-income countries still grapple with them. The second phase relates to occupational health conditions influenced by human factors within the work environment, often exacerbated by an aging workforce. Workers frequently endure degenerative health problems, including cardiovascular and musculoskeletal issues. These challenges affect workplaces globally, with limited solutions in certain middle and high-income countries. The third phase pertains to occupational health conditions shaped by each country's social system. High-income nations often confront concerns of early retirement due to health problems, while workers in most other countries persist beyond retirement age due to limited pension systems. This diversity in occupational health statuses results in varying approaches to occupational health services across countries, particularly affecting migrant workers.

The overarching objective is to provide migrant workers with safe and healthy workplaces. These issues are further compounded by global climate changes. Recognizing these challenges, in 2022, the ICOH published the ICOH Statement for Migrant Workers. This declaration seeks to enhance conditions for migrant workers, addressing not only their working environments but also their living conditions.
SS20 - CLIMATE CHANGE CHALLENGES AND ITS IMPACT ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
Authors: Wittlich Marc
Published: July 2024

Climate change has now been recognised as one of the most pressing issues of the future. In addition to the expected upheavals for society as a whole, the world of work is particularly affected by climatic influences. Both acute crisis events such as severe weather catastrophes and permanent influences such as heat, radiation, dehydration and dust generation bring new challenges for occupational safety and health for both typical employees and rescue workers.

In the face of these new challenges, key scientific questions need to be addressed in the short term: 1 - How do we make the shift to climate-friendly work equipment, methods and procedures? 2 - How do we protect workers from the unstoppable changes in the workplace? 3 - What measures help both? How can new technologies support? What are the new risks involved?

The aim of this Special Session is to take stock of the challenges of the future and discover opportunities for collaboration between disciplines. It will provide an overview of what international organisations such as ICOH and ISSA are focusing on in their work. Finally, the basis will be laid for enabling joint actions or assistance from different stakeholders in the future.
SS20-03 FARMWORKERS WORKING ON A GRAPE FARM IN THE NORTHERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA, DIE FROM HEATSTROKE: LESSONS LEARNED IN THE FACE OF CLIMATE CHANGE
Authors: Wright Caradee Yael , Stander Danie
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Extreme heat is an increasingly common occurrence worldwide and results in heat-related illnesses and deaths. South Africa is experiencing increased frequency and intensity of heatwaves. In January 2023, the media reported on farmworkers who supposedly presented at health facilities with heatstroke. Here, we report on the first comprehensive collection of data about heatstroke in an occupational setting in South Africa.

Materials and Methods

The Northern Cape Provincial Department of Health: Environmental Health Division investigated the heatstroke cases that presented at the Kakamas Hospital between 17-23 January 2023. Discussions with hospital management and staff, together with extraction of information from patient files, informed the preparation of this case study.

Results

Seven seasonal table grape farmworkers (aged 37 - 53 years) from the same farm were received at the Kakamas Hospital. Of the seven workers, two were pronounced dead on arrival. Five workers presented with similar symptoms (i.e., body temperatures >42°C; hemodynamic shock syndrome; and neurological symptoms) and two were successfully resuscitated after receiving cooling therapy, hemodynamic and ventilator support. Three deaths were confirmed as heatstroke while the remaining two could not be specified as such. Ambient maximum temperatures during these heatstroke occurrences ranged between 32-42°C.

Conclusions

While a full epidemiological study is needed to ascertain whether other factors influenced the deaths of the farmworkers, this incident prompted heat-health interventions in the Northern Cape. All environmental health practitioners and health promotion units were provided with heat-health training to implement an education campaign prior to the 2024 grape harvesting season.
SS20-04 CLIMATE CHANGE AND OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
Authors: Laurent Louis , Gagliardi Diana , Reinert Dietmar , Vernez David
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Climate change may affect workers in two different ways. Firstly, direct effects such as high temperatures, changes in the environment (circulation of biological agents, increased particulate pollution, etc.) and extreme events. Secondly, indirect effect through the modification it induces in activity with the introduction of new technologies, changes to workplaces and organisations with a view to limiting its impact on the environment.

Materials and Methods

The ongoing activity in various European institutes will be investigated in collaboration with scientists from these institutions.

Conclusions

Climate change is not a new category of risk. It is systemic in nature and encompasses everything from technical aspects to organisations and mental health. The direct impact of climate change, manifests itself through phenomena that are already known and for which there are often means of prevention, but for which there is reason to fear that they will increase in frequency and scope. Indirect effects may affect all sectors of activity with changes in energy use, processes or materials (low-carbon, requiring less water). Sometimes the hazards are known, but not necessarily in the ‘right’ sector of activity, and the challenge lies in transferring occupational health and safety skills to new players, and above all to a growing number of workers in fast-expanding sectors. One should also consider changes in the way work is organised: new division of labour within a sector, new manufacturing methods, adaptation of workstations and working hours to take account of climatic hazards, etc.
SS21-02 PESTICIDE EXPOSURE IN MOROCCAN FARMERS AND FAMILIES: BIOMONITORING AND PREDICTORS OF EXPOSURE TO HEALTH AND ECOLOGICAL RISK ASSESSMENT
Authors: Duca Radu Corneliu , Berni Imane , Menouni Aziza , Creta Matteo , Ghazi Ibrahim El , Godderis Lode , Jaafari Samir El
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Pesticide use may result in adverse effects on the environment and farmers’ health. We have assessed Moroccan farmers’ behaviour towards the safety measures and risks perception for pesticide use and the impact that this might have on the environment as well as on the farmers themselves and their families.

Materials and Methods

Several studies were conducted in the Saïss Plain, located in north-central Morocco: 1) cross-sectional study to identify gaps in knowledge and awareness of dangers to health and environment regarding pesticide use; 2) eco-toxicological study to assess the ecological and human health risks (for infants, children, and adults) due to ground water pollution with pesticides; and 3) human biomonitoring study to evaluate the actual exposure to pesticides of farmers and their families (spouse and children) and potential health risk.

Results

Most farmers were not trained in the application of pesticides. Subsequently, acute exposure symptoms like visual impairment (46%), followed by dizziness (44.3%), headache (39.4%), and excessive sweating (34.4%) were reported. Banned pesticides were still present in groundwater because of intensive agricultural activity. Chlorpyrifos methyl and ethyl were the pesticides most frequently detected (100% of samples). α-HCH, β-HCH, DDT, and DDE were found to pose a higher cancer risk to infants and children. Furthermore, children living in the intensive agricultural area were exposed to very high environmental levels of glyphosate, as reflected by glyphosate and AMPA urinary levels.

Conclusions

In Morocco, due to the lack of education and the presence of counterfeit market, pesticides constitute a major occupational and environmental problem.
SS21-03 THE PROFILE OF GENETIC POLYMORPHISMS AND EXPOSURE CHARACTERISTICS OF PESTICIDE APPLICATORS IN CENTRAL JAVA, INDONESIA
Authors: Liem Jen Fuk
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Several organophosphate pesticides including chlorpyrifos (CPF) are metabolically activated to their Oxon form through reactions catalyzed by cytochrome P450 (CYP). CYP enzymes such as CYP2B6 and CYP2C19 have an important role in activation and detoxification processes in CPF metabolism. This study aims to profile genetic polymorphisms and exposure characteristics of pesticide applicators in Central Java.

Materials and Methods

A total of 151 vegetable farmers aged 18–65 years who have actively applied chlorpyrifos for ≥1 year were included in this study. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was conducted to elicit occupational characteristics and is therefore used to estimate cumulative exposure level (CEL). The CYP2C19*2 and *3 gene polymorphisms were analyzed using PCR-RFLP, while a TaqMan® SNP Genotyping Assay was used to analyze CYP2B6*6 gene polymorphisms. The urinary 3,5,6-Trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy) and erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase (RBC-AChE) activity were determined in the laboratory.

Results

This study found poor pesticide handling practices as indicated by a high proportion of multiple pesticides used and a low frequency of personal protective equipment used. The reduced function alleles of CYP2B6 and CYP2C19 were present in 56.6% and 21.2% of samples. TCPy concentrations were associated with the CEL and CYP2B6*6 gene polymorphisms, while RBC-AChE was negatively associated with the CEL.

Conclusions

This study provides information on the prevalence and potential role of toxicologically relevant gene polymorphisms along with the exposure characteristics in the Javanese pesticide applicator population. Further studies to confirm the role of gene polymorphisms are needed. Therefore, comprehensive control measures shall be implemented.
SS21-04 HISTORICAL VS CURRENT INSECTICIDE AND NEMATICIDE USE IN CALIFORNIA: CHANGING MODES OF ACTION (MOA)
Authors: O’Malley Michael
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Screened for maximum toxicity, synthetic pesticides introduced between the end of the 19th century and the 1970s typically require high application rates and can affect many non-target organisms. Active ingredients screened for selective effects on a narrow range of species, target pest population control to minimize resistance.

Materials and Methods

Comparison of modes of action (MOA) used in 1974 and 2016 based on California use and illness surveillance data highlights dramatic changes in MOA used and secondary effects on non-target organisms.

Results

1974 use report (PUR) data with 123 showed 25,916,113kg of reported use, 14 IRC groups and classifications for soaps-desiccants, behavior modifiers, and metabolic synergists (non-lRCgroups). The 2016 data contained records for 251 Als, accounting for 63,739,066.5 Kg of reported use, 1,307,064 applications and 25,794,307.9 hectares. The 36 IRC groups included AIs effective at low application rates and limited mammalian toxicity. Important new MOA included nAChR receptor agonists, ryanodine receptor compounds, chordotonal organ TRPV channel modulators, juvenile hormone mimics, and chitin synthesis inhibitors. These changes corresponded with a marked decrease in occupational cases of ChE-inhibitor poisonings and skin disease in agricultural workers. Ground water residues of arsenic and lead insecticides, and the fumigant DBCP still present potential hazards in the southern Central Valley. DDT residues also persist in many agricultural soils, occasionally contaminating crops with high fat content, including cannabis. Conclusions Area treated appears a better measure of selective pesticide use, than weight of material applied. Information for other jurisdictions remains to be explored.
SS22-04 A JUST CLIMATE TRANSITION FOR WORKERS: RECONCILIATING LABOUR RIGHTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Authors: Torres Luis
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The transition to a low-carbon economy will involve radical social and economic transformations, which will have significant impacts on workers. The notion of a ‘just transition’ takes a human rights-based approach to reconcile environmental and social concerns, by emphasizing that the benefits of climate action should be shared, and that those bearing the costs should be supported. However, it is currently less understood how international labour and human rights are used to challenge measures designed to fight climate change. This research explores the role of occupational health and safety in climate change litigation.

Materials and Methods

This study implements a documentary analysis of human rights-based climate litigation cases. Data was collected from two sources: the Climate Change Litigation Databases by the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, and the Climate and Human Rights Litigation Database by the University of Zurich.

Results

Rights-based climate litigation or “just transition litigation” does not oppose to climate action. It rather challenges the way in which climate solutions are implemented and their impact on the enjoyment of labour and human rights. Good governance of climate solutions will require active workers’ participation.

Conclusions

The adoption of a rights-based approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives could reconcile occupational health and safety with environmental and ecological issues. This alignment will support the realisation of a safe and healthy working environment as recognised in 2022 by the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.
SS23 BUILDING KNOWLEDGE CAPACITIES FOR THE FUTURE OF WORK IN THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
Authors: Shanbhag Shrinivas M , Moti Suvarna
Published: July 2024

The chemical industry is undergoing a seismic transformation. As technology surges forward, regulations evolve, and global markets shift, the future of work in this sector is rapidly changing. To thrive in this dynamic environment, professionals must cultivate knowledge capacities that not only keep them current but also position them as drivers of innovation and sustainability. This concept, "Building knowledge capacities for the future of work in the chemical industry," is pivotal. It offers a proactive strategy to empower individuals and organizations in the chemical sector with the tools, skillsets and knowledge to navigate the challenges and seize opportunities that lie ahead. The session’s objective is to emphasise an holistic approach to education, training, and skills development.

The first presentation (keynote) will attempt to accentuate the necessity for risk management to enable a safe and sustainable chemical sector. The next four presentations (constituting a symposium titled ‘OSH: Rising to face transformational challenges’) will look at the journey of knowledge expansion inclusive of adaptability, interdisciplinary thinking, technological prowess, and a steadfast commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. From embracing cutting-edge technologies to championing sustainability, and from cultivating a global perspective to nurturing resilience, this comprehensive approach equips professionals to shape a future that is brighter, more innovative, and sustainable. The symposium will be followed by a panel discussion. The last part of the session will be for Q and A and open discussion.
SS23-02 DRIVERS OF CHANGE IN THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
Authors: Hitzeroth Steffen
Published: July 2024

The chemical industry is currently witnessing a profound transformation, propelled by a confluence of key drivers that are reshaping its dynamics. Sustainability is emerging as a pivotal factor, driven by heightened environmental consciousness and societal demands. Chemical companies are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly practices, from greener manufacturing processes to sustainable product development, in response to these imperatives. Technological advancements play an equally critical role, with digitalization and materials science innovations revolutionizing how chemicals are produced and utilized.

The integration of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence is enhancing efficiency and enabling predictive maintenance, thereby altering traditional manufacturing paradigms. Regulatory pressures, especially pertaining to safety and environmental standards, are pushing the industry towards compliance and innovation. Stringent regulations necessitate cleaner and safer chemical processes, prompting companies to invest in research and development of new, more sustainable technologies. Market dynamics, influenced by shifting consumer preferences and global supply chain disruptions, are compelling chemical firms to adapt and diversify their product portfolios. The rise of bioplastics, for example, reflects a response to changing consumer preferences for sustainable alternatives to traditional plastics.

This presentation offers a succinct overview of these paramount drivers of change within the chemical industry, highlighting their far-reaching implications. It underscores the industry's commitment to sustainability, the transformative role of technology, the regulatory imperative for innovation, and the adaptability required to thrive in evolving markets.
SS24-01 IMPORTANCE OF OCCUPATIONAL EPIDEMIOLOGY IN RECOMMENDED PRIORITIES FOR THE IARC MONOGRAPHS DURING THE 2020S
Authors: Schubauer-Berigan Mary
Published: July 2024

Introduction

For more than 50 years, studies of chemical and physical agents in the workplace have greatly informed evaluations of carcinogenicity by the Monographs programme of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). This presentation will describe the extent to which occupational exposures remain highly relevant to carcinogenicity assessments, as evidenced by the prioritization of agents for evaluation during the 2020s.

Materials and Methods

Agents prioritized for evaluation by the IARC Monographs programme by an external advisory group were examined to determine (1) their relevance to workplace exposure, and (2) the extent to which occupational epidemiology studies informed the rationale for prioritization.

Results

Of the 120 agents accorded high, medium or low priority for evaluation during 2020-2024, 74 (62%) are anticipated to involve occupational exposure. Thirty-three (45%) of these have emerging evidence from studies of cancer in workers exposed to the agent. Examples of such agents evaluated recently in the IARC Monographs, including 1,1,1-trichloroethane (limited evidence for multiple myeloma), trivalent antimony (limited evidence for lung cancer), and occupational exposure as a firefighter (sufficient evidence for mesothelioma and bladder cancer, and limited for several other sites), will be described.

Conclusions

Studies of cancer in the workplace remain highly relevant for cancer hazard identification by the IARC Monographs programme. The prioritization of agents to be evaluated during 2025-2029 will be available in mid-April 2024. The proportions that are occupationally relevant and that have contributing information from occupational epidemiology studies will be compared to the previous period during this presentation.
SS25 HEALTH LITERACY AND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
Authors: El Yamani Mounia
Published: July 2024

The ability to access, understand, appraise and apply health information is useful in all phases and settings in life, but highly dependent on the environment or social context.

The work environment is a social context that determines health in a large proportion of the adult population, and can be a determinant for how health is maintained or promoted and how disease is managed. Occupational safety and health (OSH) management system ensures the dissemination of information regarding health hazards and risks associated with the job tasks and ongoing evaluation of employee wellbeing and health with concomitant initiatives to preserve a safe and healthy work environment.

The ILO states that ‘maintaining a preventative safety and health culture requires making use of all available means to increase general awareness, knowledge and understanding of the concepts of [occupational] hazards and risks and how they may be prevented or controlled’. This aspiration reflects key elements that we term as 'occupational health literacy.'

We therefore suggested a session that presents occupational health literacy that can guide OSH management systems, empowering both the individual employees and the management with knowledge and competences about prevention and health promotion effectively, and furthermore build organisational structures that enable communication and facilitate action.
SS25-03 LABOUR PARTICIPATION IN JACARDI: INCREASING THE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE OF OCCUPATIONAL PHYSICIANS IN PATIENT EDUCATION
Authors: Chawłowska Ewelina , Nowicki Michał , Lipiak Agnieszka
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The EU’s JACARDI project encompasses 11 Work Packages (WPs) addressing various aspects of health and everyday functioning of people living with non-communicable diseases, in particular with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes (DM). WP11 aims to support such people’s labour participation by mapping factors which affect it and testing solutions to improve it. As health literacy was found to be among the factors influencing labour participation, a pilot activity was proposed within WP11 to increase: (i) health literacy among working-age patients diagnosed with CVD/DM or their risk factors, and (ii) health literacy knowledge and skills among occupational physicians.

Materials and Methods

Workshops and on-line courses will be carried out to teach physicians evidence-based methods of health literacy assessment and patient education. Next, patients’ health literacy will be assessed by the physicians with the use of Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ). Based on the results, tailor-made educational interventions will be delivered to the patients to improve their health literacy and awareness of CVD/DM management.

Results

The pilot is planned to reach 40 physicians and 800 of their patients at occupational health centres in three provinces of Poland. The activity is intended as a case study for the development of a roadmap to scale up experiences at a regional or national level.

Conclusions

Since occupational health checks are compulsory in many EU countries, occupational physicians are uniquely positioned to reach a majority of working-age population. If scaled up, the pilot may become good practice supporting inclusion, retainment, return to work and workplace wellbeing in the target patient groups.
SS26 PREVENTION STRATEGIES AND CURRENT CHALLENGES IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (OSH) ACROSS VARIOUS COUNTRIES
Authors: Kang Dongmug , Ham Seunghon
Published: July 2024

Challenges in occupational safety and health (OSH) vary among countries, even within high-income countries / regions, due to differences in economic status, industrial distribution, legal systems, and other factors. This session invites CEOs of OSH organizations or institutes from four countries to present. The speakers, listed below, will provide an overview of their organization, discuss the main challenges in OSH, and present new perspectives on the subject.

The learning outcomes of this session are:

- Introduction of the organization;

- Current challenges in OSH;

- New perspectives on OSH per country.
SS32-03 CONTRIBUTION OF THE ANTIDOTE CELL IN THE TREATMENT OF SATURNISM
Authors: Ichane Amina , Chaoui Hanane , Rhalem Naima , Soulaymani Bencheikh Rachida
Published: July 2024

Objective

The Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance Centre of Morocco (CAPM) plays a crucial role in managing cases of heavy metal occupational poisoning by managing an antidote unit. The objective of our study was to describe the functioning of the antidote unit in Morocco, and evaluate its role in managing cases of heavy metal occupational poisoning.

Methods

In this retrospective study, all cases of lead and mercury poisoning received through the toxicological information unit at CAPM, were collected from 2020 to 2023. We described the characteristics of the treatment received by these patients as DMSA (2,3-dimercaptosuccinique acid).

Results

We recorded 11 patients intoxicated by lead or lead and mercury in occupational circumstances. Succimer® 200 mg (DMSA) was given in a therapeutic scheme of 30mg/kg/day, three times a day during five days. The antidotes unit delivered 39 DMSA boxes. Of the 11 patients, nine needed one course of the treatment and two patients needed two courses of the treatment. Both clinically and biologically, the patients responded well to the treatment, and no adverse effects were observed with DMSA.

Conclusion

The implementation of the antidote cell at CAPM demonstrated its effectiveness in providing timely and appropriate treatment to patients exposed to high levels of lead and mercury. By offering rapid interventions, the antidote cell played a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes and minimizing the clinical consequences of heavy metal poisoning.
SS32-04 OCCUPATIONAL LEAD POISONING: DISCUSSION OF THREE CASES
Authors: Daghouane Fatima , Chaoui Hanane , Rhalem Naima , Soulaymani Bencheikh Rachida
Published: July 2024

Objective

Lead is a heavy metal used in several types of industrial activities including mining. The objective of our work was to report the characteristics of occupational lead poisoning in three workers.

Methods

We report three cases of lead poisoning among workers in clandestine lead mines in Jerada in eastern Morocco, declared to the Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance Centre of Morocco (CAPM).

Results

Case 1: 52 years, working in clandestine mines in Jerada (Twisit, sidi boubker) since 2005, symptomatology (painful abdominal syndrome with pallor, headache, insomnia, nausea, vmsst), biology (anemia at 9.1g/dL, normal kidney function, alkaline phosphatase 319UI/L Gamma GT 544 IU/L, initial blood lead level 936.4µg/L), first DMSA (2,3-dimercaptosuccinique acid) treatment, control blood lead level 567.30µg/L.

Case 2

40 years, working in clandestine mines in Jerada (Twisit, sidi boubker) since 2005, symptomatology (tingling of the lower limbs, lower back pain), first DMSA treatment, control blood lead level 241µg/L. Sept and Oct 2018: return to work at the mine, resumption of symptoms: abdominal pain, tingling of the lower limbs and back pain, blood lead level 537µg/L. Second course of DMSA: five days of treatment, control lead level 459µg/L.

Case 3

42 years, worked in clandestine mines in Jerada (Twisit, sidi boubker) for 10 years, arrested two years ago, symptomatology (neuropathy of the lower limbs, gingival hypertrophy, abdominal pain), initial blood lead level 531µg/L.

Conclusion

Lead poisoning constitutes an often overlooked public health problem; collaboration between the clinicians, occupational physicians and CAPM allows early detection, treatment and prevention.