bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SS05-02 Open issues around COVID-19 and work: Lessons learned from the literature and the European ORCHESTRA multicentric study on health workers
Authors: Porru Stefano , Monaco Maria Grazia Lourdes , Spiteri Gianluca , Cioffi Arcangelo , Verlato Giuseppe , Carta Angela
Published: July 2024

Introduction

SARS-CoV-2 had enormous impact on occupational health, particularly in healthcare. In Italy, nearly 500,000 health workers (HW) were infected. Key questions to be addressed by occupational medicine, e.g. relationship between humoral and cellular immunity, impact of breakthrough infections, comorbidities, variants of concerns (VoC), long COVID, compensation, targeted risk assessment and health surveillance.

Methods

Considerations from literature and data from the European ORCHESTRA multicentric study involving about 63,500 HW from 14 European countries with > 50 papers published.

Results

Vaccines contained the pandemic, even though breakthrough infections (cumulative incidence < 1.5% in fully vaccinated HW, 20.6% in boosted) and reinfections occurred, mainly due to VoC and to some determinants, including comorbidity and immunological status. At least 65 million individuals worldwide are estimated to have long COVID, occurring in at least 10% of SARS-CoV-2 infections, with >200 symptoms/signs. The study of immune response is still crucial. Humoral response is relevant in > 99.3% of vaccinated HW, with decreasing temporal trends related to age, previous infections, and vaccine type. Little is known about cellular immunity and its interaction with humoral response, currently under study on about 300 HW.

Conclusions

In occupational settings, risk assessment and health surveillance protocols should consider the risk factors for breakthrough and reinfections and risk profiles for vulnerable workers with comorbidities and predisposing factors for long COVID. Vaccine campaigns should be concurrent with ‘flu vaccine; health surveillance program should consider return-to-work policies; compensation criteria for occupationally infected workers should be harmonized.
SS06-01 EFFECTIVE DELIVERY OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES: PROMOTING OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH AS A UNIVERSAL FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT AT WORK
Authors: Leka Stavroula , Jain Aditya
Published: July 2024

Introduction

It is estimated that 80% of the global working population still does not have access to basic OSH services and where these services are implemented, they vary in scope, content and quality, with a multi-disciplinary, comprehensive approach seldom being undertaken. Additionally, there are disparities between high-income countries (HICs) and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and between occupational sectors and models of work. Defining OSH services as multidisciplinary, this research aims to understand how they are delivered in these contexts and how their implementation is influenced by factors such as the scope of programmes, facilitators and barriers to service delivery, and the competence of those delivering these programmes. This presentation will present findings from the first stage of the project focusing on a literature review and a series of case studies outlining national-level OSH systems and provisions within selected national contexts.

Methods

A series of case studies focusing on HICs and LIMCs is developed and analyzed using framework analysis. The case studies ensure regional representation, coverage of OSH services, percentage of workers employed in the informal sector and ratification of ILO Conventions C155, C161 and C187.

Results

Preliminary findings indicate the diversity of OSH services systems implemented in various country contexts and their focus. Less focus has been identified on mental health and wellbeing at work, as well as lack of competencies of key stakeholders in this area.

Conclusions

The outcomes of this study will be supplemented with an ICOH stakeholder survey and expert interviews in order to progress the current state-of-the-art in this area.
SS06-04 A FRAMEWORK FOR ASSESSING OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES SYSTEMS
Authors: Ramirez Ana Catalina
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The recent changes in world of work (labour mobility, subcontracting, non-standard forms of employment and digitalization) are having a profound impact on the operation of enterprises and on workers’ health by creating new occupational safety and health (OSH) risks or by aggravating existing ones. Adequate access to healthcare and, fundamentally, to prevention services is key to protect workers’ health and anticipate new risks.

Materials and Methods

Occupational health (OH) services are advisory and support services with preventive functions, as defined by the Occupational Health Services Convention (No. 161). However, only between 10% and 15% of workers have access to some form of OH service. Workers in the informal economy; workers in non-standard forms of employment and micro and small and medium enterprises are among the most affected by the lack of access to these services. Similarly, these groups remain disproportionately excluded from social health protection (SHP) coverage.

Results

If organized appropriately and effectively, the extension of SHP and OH services coverage to workers in all forms of employment can contribute significantly to create safe and healthy working environment as well as to improve universal health access, contributing therefore to SDG8 and SDG3.

Conclusions

This presentation will describe a framework for assessing OH services system, including legal framework, functions, organization, coverage, resources, funding and governance based on concrete country examples. It also will explore the establishment of robust inter-institutional linkages between SHP and OH services as a strategy to extend coverage of both systems.
SS07-04 THE NEED FOR A NEW HOLISTIC APPROACH IN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND MANAGEMENT
Authors: Lucchini Roberto
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Disasters of different types increasingly affect humanity and plans for emergency preparedness and management are still largely insufficient to avoid immediate and long-term impacts on physical/mental health, ecosystem, productivity and societal development.

Materials and Methods

A literature search was conducted on events occurring worldwide starting from the chemical accident of Seveso, Italy in 1976. Publicly available databases were utilized including the EU e-MARS, the EM-DAT and others. Accidents were grouped according to their cause: natural hazards, chemical, nuclear, infectious, war and terrorism, and to their degree of severity. Lesson learned were analysed to test the efficacy of a more holistic unified approach to all hazards.

Results

The frequency of disasters of all types is increasing, in relation to different factors including extreme weather conditions, deterioration of old infrastructures, growing urbanization, and human errors despite automatization. Large areas of overlapping conditions were observed across different types of disasters, leading to potential unified implementation of common measures for preparedness and management. Data-driven tools for predictive modelling are key to approach disasters in the modern era, and they can be applied independently from the nature of the disaster. The impacts on physical and mental health can be persistent in the long-term, requiring prolonged epidemiological follow-up and care.

Conclusions

More effective strategies for preparedness and management are urgently needed to face the increasing burden of accidents of different nature.
SS07-05 THE MANAGEMENT OF FIRST AID IN THE WORKPLACES IN ITALY: OPPORTUNITIES AND CRITICAL ISSUES
Authors: Pera Alessandra , De Rosa M , Papaleo B
Published: July 2024

In Italy the organization and management of first aid in the workplace are established by law (D.Lgs. 81/2008 and D.M. 388/2003): the occupational physician takes care of the organization of the company’s first aid system, while the management in case of an accident goes through the company’s first aid workers (lay rescuers), specifically identified and properly trained and through the local emergency medical service (EMS). First aid training is based on specific learning objectives defined by law. The Italian legislation requires the presence of the defibrillator only in public administration and sports centers, while in the workplace, places with a grade turnout of people (stations, stadiums, theaters, shopping centers), isolated and/ or difficult to reach places, is currently only recommended.

An intense awareness campaign has developed in recent years, but it would be desirable to add training in the use of the defibrillator also for first responders, without incurring additional costs for companies, both in economic and time terms. INAIL (National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work) rewards companies that carry out interventions to improve the conditions of prevention and protection of health and safety, including the acquisition of a defibrillator, with a reduction in the insurance premium (OT23). The introduction of this incentive system has led to a steady increase in companies that have purchased the defibrillator and trained workers to use it correctly.
SS07-07 TOXIC EXPOSURE AND EFFECT BIOMONITORING OF FIREFIGHTERS
Authors: Burgess Jefferey L
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Firefighters have an increased risk for multiple cancers and adverse reproductive outcomes compared to the general population. However, the specific exposures and associated mechanisms of toxicity leading to these outcomes are not fully understood and may vary across firefighting groups.

Methods

Firefighters in the United States (US) have enrolled into the prospective multicenter Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study (FFCCS), providing a common structure for facilitating individual research studies. These studies have included but are not limited to evaluation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), women firefighters, and wildland firefighters. Each study uses a common set of survey measures and standardized collection of blood and urine samples, with study-specific surveys and additional sample collection to meet each project need. Firefighter research champions are involved in all phases of the research.

Results

As of July, 2023, the FFCCS had enrolled over 3,700 firefighters across 27 states. Serum PFAS measurements have been associated with differential blood DNA methylation and microRNA concentration. Women firefighters are being evaluated for carcinogenic and reproductive risk and mental health conditions, with preliminary results showing a 66% reduction in serum anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), a measure of ovarian reserve, in firefighters with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Wildland firefighters are being evaluated for exposures and carcinogenic risk with plans for future exposure reduction studies.

Conclusion

The FFCCS has provided an effective framework for evaluation of exposures and toxic effects in firefighters.
SS08 ADVERSE HUMAN HEALTH AND SAFETY IMPACTS OF CHEMICAL USE TO SMALL-SCALE MINERS, AND THEIR HOUSEHOLDS AND COMMUNITY, AND INTERVENTIONS
Authors: Lu Jinky Leilanie
Published: July 2024

The Special Session will cover the wide-ranging adverse health effects of exposures to chemicals commonly used in formal and informal mining, either regulated or outside the purview of regulation of the government. The small-scale miners are directly exposed to these chemicals; they bring home these toxins; these chemicals e.g. mercury and other toxic metals contaminate the environment - air, water, and soil.

This session will present research evidence and advocacies in mercury use and poisoning in various parts of the globe, the presence of trace metals in blood and urine of the exposed, as well as the promises and benefits of new methods of biomonitoring, principles of prevention strategies, and innovative workplace practices.
SS08-02 BIOMONITORING OF TRACE METALS IN BLOOD AND URINE AMONG ARTISANAL MINERS IN THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
Authors: Obadia Paul Musa , Kitenge Joseph Pyana , Kuhangana Trésor Carsi , Badiambile Remy Mpulumba , Musambo Taty Muta , Mutayo Malick Useni , Mukanya Jeef Numbi , Duca Radu-Corneliu , Creta Matteo , Kitenge Tony Kayembe , Ani Maria-Mirela , Nkulu Célestin Banza Lubaba , Nemery Benoit
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, artisanal and small-scale mining employ an estimated 200,000 people, and over a million are indirectly involved through trade and transport. We assessed metal exposure in artisanal miners involved in mining three types of commodities (copper-cobalt, tin, diamonds).

Materials and Methods

In cross-sectional studies (March 2021 - August 2022), we measured trace metals by Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) in blood (µg/L) and urine (µg/g creatinine) in convenience samples of miners (mostly males) extracting copper-cobalt (n=147, four mines, Kolwezi), tin (n=99, three mines around Manono), and diamonds (n=80, Mbuji-Mayi).

Results

Diamond miners had generally low concentrations (GM with IQR) for most trace metals, except for Pb in blood [74.2 (60.6-90.4)] and urine. Compared to diamond miners, copper-cobalt miners had higher blood concentrations for several elements, especially Co [5.55 (2.87-10.74)], but also Ge, As and Hg; they also had higher urinary concentrations for Co [28.3 (13.5-60.5), Mn, As, Sn, and U [0.031 (0.018-1.265)]. In general, tin miners did not exhibit higher metal concentrations than diamond miners, except for Pb in blood [318 (260-727)] and urine, Tl in blood [0.20 (0.14-0.26)] and urine, as well as As, Sn and U in urine; compared to copper-cobalt miners, tin miners had lower Sn in blood and in urine.

Conclusions

In this cross-sectional study, we found evidence of substantially higher occupational exposure to cobalt and toxic trace metals in copper-cobalt artisanal miners than in diamond and tin miners. The relatively high concentrations of lead and thallium among tin miners need further research.
SS09 BUILDING GLOBAL CONSENSUS FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (OH&S) MANAGEMENT THROUGH ISO STANDARDIZATION
Authors: Humphreys Lachean
Published: July 2024

This session will provide an overview of ISO standardization in the field of Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) management, and the role that standards can play in addressing global OH&S challenges.
SS09-01 BUILDING GLOBAL CONSENSUS FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (OH&S) MANAGEMENT THROUGH ISO STANDARDIZATION - PART 1
Authors: Cottam Martin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Occupational health and safety (OH&S) is becoming increasingly important as societal and stakeholder expectations evolve. This is reflected in the International Labour Organization’s recognition of safe and healthy working conditions as a fundamental right of workers, and the increasing focus on organizations’ Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) credentials, within the social element of which OH&S is a key component.

Materials and Methods

This part of the session will describe the importance of managing OH&S effectively, and the role that international standards play in helping organizations address this challenge. It will provide an overview of the published standards under ISO/TC 283, including ISO 45001, the overarching specification for OH&S management systems, together with guidance standards that address important areas including psychological health, safety and wellbeing of workers (ISO 45003), current and future challenges of infectious diseases at work (ISO 45006), and the effective evaluation of an organization’s OH&S performance (ISO 45004).

Results

This part of the session will include discussion, tips and the opportunity for the audience to ask questions on using standards effectively to help drive OH&S improvement.

Conclusion

Participants will gain an understanding of why OH&S is an increasingly important aspect of organizational performance, and the role that standards can play in helping address this challenge.
SS10-01 UPDATES ON WHO ACTIVITIES FOR THE PREVENTION OF HEALTH RISKS RELATED TO NON-IONIZING RADIATION EXPOSURE
Authors: Van Deventer Emilie
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Within the current WHO global strategy and towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, the WHO Radiation and Health Unit works to strengthen radiation protection worldwide. Considering non-ionizing radiation (NIR), the activities cover electromagnetic fields (EMF) and optical radiation topics, as well as infrasound and ultrasound.

Methods

The activities on NIR risk prevention of the WHO Radiation and Health Unit are performed under the umbrella of the International EMF Project and the WHO Global UV Project. The EMF Project, established in 1996, investigates the health effects from EMFs and advises national authorities on EMF radiation protection. Regarding optical radiation, the WHO Global UV Project-INTERSUN was established in 1995, to assess and monitor the health impact of UV exposure and to provide guidance to national authorities to reduce optical radiation-induced health risks.

Results

The key populations to be protected from NIR include the public, workers and patients. Several activities have been undertaken regarding occupational exposure, including in different industries using artificial NIR sources, as well as workers who are exposed to natural sources of NIR exposure (and in particular solar radiation) in the context of their work.

Conclusions

The presentation will elaborate on the WHO activities in occupational radiation protection and the main challenges.
SS10-03 DATA AND CRITERIA FOR THE PREVENTION OF THE OCCUPATIONAL RISK RELATED TO SOLAR UV RADIATION
Authors: Wittlich Marc
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common cancer in Western countries. Occupational health prevention must be introduced as a strong instrument in workers protection also with regard to occupational disease issues. To date, criteria for both occupational health prevention and occupational disease are missing and the identification of risk groups has no metric basis.

Materials and Methods

With GENESIS-UV, we measured the largest data set available to date. Criteria for occupational health prevention were specifically mapped on occupation-specific dosimetric measurements of 45,000 measurement days in 176 occupations and sub-occupations to identify affected occupations. The number of employees affected were elucidated, worldwide. Finally, a direct link to retrospective occupational disease criteria could be established.

Results

The data set has been published and made available for scientists all over the world. Regarding occupational health prevention, of the 176 occupations and sub-occupations selected for this work, 153 (= 87%) exceed the criterion and thus need special attention. This includes all occupations with annual exposures of more than 150 SED. Employment figures for the EU and the world yield the total number of affected workers to be 36.1 million and more than 500 million, respectively.

Conclusions

These new criteria for occupational health prevention are valid and in good agreement with international research by WHO and ICNIRP. If applied correctly and consistently, these criteria can prevent occupational disease. It will be possible to identify occupations and sub-occupations that have an urgent need for prevention to avoid chronic skin damage leading to cancer.
SS10-04 THE HEALTH SURVEILLANCE OF WORKERS EXPOSED TO NON-IONIZING RADIATIONS: INDICATIONS BASED ON CURRENT EUROPEAN LEGISLATION
Authors: Modenese Alberto , Gobba Fabriziomaria
Published: July 2024

Introduction

A very large number of workers worldwide is exposed to non-Ionizing radiations (NIR), including optical radiation (OR) and electromagnetic fields (EMF) at their workplaces.

Materials and Methods

For artificial OR and for EMF in Europe, two Directives exist, i.e. 2013/35/EU and 2006/25/EC respectively, regulating the need for risk assessment at the workplaces and for an implementation of health surveillance (HS) programs. It should be noted that for natural OR exposure, i.e. solar radiation (SR), no specific OSH regulations are available in the EU.

Results

For EMF, the Directive aims at the prevention of direct short-term effects and indirect effects. Direct effects can usually appear in cases of high exposures, while indirect effects are possible even at lower exposure levels in workers “at particular risk”, e.g. persons with implanted active medical devices. Considering artificial OR, in case the risk evaluation identifies a relevant risk at work, HS could be considered mandatory in EU. For SR, on the other hand, HS is not an obligation. Nevertheless, outdoor workers have a well-documented increased risk of UV-related adverse effects, and for these reasons an appropriate HS is definitely necessary. For both EMF and OR, special attention to target tissues of the radiations, as well as to workers with conditions of particular susceptibility, has to be devoted during the HS programmes.

Conclusions

The HS of NIR-exposed workers is recommended in Europe for a proper prevention of the occupational risks arising from EMF and OR exposures, deserving special attention for workers with conditions of particular susceptibility to the risk.
SS12-01 OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS IN THE HANDICRAFT SECTOR AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: El Aoudi Yasmina
Published: July 2024

Craftsmanship offers a range of very varied products with artistic or utilitarian value. It is a dynamic and culturally rich sector that contributes significantly to the country's economy. This presentation highlights the occupational risks prevalent in Morocco's artisanal sector and explores how combating these risks can contribute to the country's sustainable development.

We will briefly present the importance of the artisanal sector in the cultural heritage and economy of Morocco. Common occupational risks faced by Moroccan artisans will be described, such as: exposure to toxic chemicals; repetitive strain injuries due to manual manufacturing techniques; poor working conditions, particularly ergonomics; how these hazards affect the health and wellbeing of artisans and their communities will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on how improving working conditions in the craft sector aligns with objectives such as good health and wellbeing, decent work and reduced inequalities.

We will also present potential strategies to mitigate occupational risks in the Moroccan artisanal sector: (i) implementation of safety and hygiene standards, (ii) proposal of training and awareness programs for artisans, (iii) support for the development of ergonomic tools and workspaces, and (iv) expanding access to healthcare and social security for artisans. We will highlight the responsibility of the Moroccan government, businesses and consumers in promoting sustainable practices and improving working conditions. We’ll discuss the importance of collaborations, certifications and fair trade practices.

In conclusion: Attention will be drawn to the fight against occupational risks in the Moroccan artisanal sector, which is a crucial step towards sustainable development.
SS12-02 CHILD LABOR AND EDUCATION IN THE HANDICRAFT
Authors: Charioui Souad
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Child labor remains a social scourge that affects every country in the world, including Morocco, despite its ratification of the ILO Conventions on the Rights of the Child, Conventions 138 and 182. The craft sector is one of the sectors in which children are employed.

Materials and Methods

We have listed the surveys carried out in Morocco on this subject, using statistics from national institutions.

Results

Children are employed in the various craft trades without exception, often as apprentices; the majority under the age of 15, male and from rural areas. The reasons for employing are poverty, not attending or failing at school, and social integration through learning a trade. The conditions under which children work: poor health and safety conditions, mostly manual labor, lack of personal protective equipment, long working hours, poor pay, lack of medical supervision, inhumane practices by employers towards children – all have an impact on their physical, mental and even social health. Apprenticeship training centers have been set up, catering for children over the age of 15; with committees responsible for monitoring and assessing apprenticeship, working conditions and occupational safety.

Conclusions

Child labor in the craft sector still persists, and has a negative impact on children’s health and morals. A program to fight child labor, launched in Morocco in 2000, aims to reduce all forms of child labor, including in the craft sector, and has helped to reduce the number of child workers over the years.
SS13-03 WORK-RELATED CANCER IN FINLAND
Authors: Sauni Riitta , Takala Jukka , Hämäläinen Päivi , Nygård Clas-Håkan , Neupane Subas
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study was to estimate the magnitude of the burden of work-related cancer in terms of fatalities in Finland during the year 2019. Additionally, it sought to compare these figures with the national statistics on occupational cancers 2005-2019.

Materials and Methods

Data on occupational illnesses and injuries were sourced from international organizations, institutions, and public websites. Population attributable fractions (PAF) for the various risk factor-outcome pairs were derived from literature. Reported and recognized occupational cancers registered during 2005-2019 were evaluated from the Finnish Register of Occupational Diseases (FROD).

Results

According to the latest estimates, there was a total of 1028 work-related cancer cases in Finland in 2019. They comprised 45% of all fatal cases of work-related diseases. In 2005-2019, a total of 2288 cancer cases were reported to the FROD. Of these, 1358 (59%, 153 cases/year on average) were recognized as occupational diseases. Lung cancer (44%) and mesothelioma (54%) were the most common cancer types. Altogether, 1328 recognized cases (98%) were related to asbestos exposure. Exposure to silica, wood dust, chromium, nickel and arsenic caused one to four cases each.

Conclusions

The compensation-based register (FROD) presents figures for work-related cancer that are approximately ten times smaller compared to estimates derived from scientific literature. The recognized cases are those that insurance companies have compensated as occupational diseases. However, the estimates provide a better national scope of the burden posed by work-related cancer. As the register-based data varies across different countries, the estimates offer a valuable avenue for international comparisons.
SS19-01 THIRTY YEARS ON – HOW EU-OSHA USES COLLABORATIONS TO ACHIEVE IMPACT IN OSH
Authors: Cockburn William
Published: July 2024

Thirty years ago, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (www.osha.europa.eu) was established with the aim of improving by sharing and developing knowledge. Since then the agency has supported policy-making in OSH through research, supported prevention of workplace risks with guidance and tools and contributed to a positive prevention culture through awareness raising.

During this time, the world of work has changed significantly, making it all the more challenging to achieve a substantial OSH impact. As a relatively small organisation, EU-OSHA relies on its network and on collaboration at global as well as European level to achieve its objectives.

Looking to the future, EU-OSHA will address the most important challenges in OSH, such as those related to digitalisation, climate change, psychosocial risks and mental health, cardiovascular disease, work-related cancer and occupational injuries. For each of these challenges it will contribute to the evidence base through its research, identify examples of good practice, develop tools and guidance and run awareness raising campaigns. While such actions are needed to create safe, sustainable and healthy workplaces, it is essential that progress can be monitored and that the benefits to society can be quantified and communicated to a broad audience.
SS20-02 CLIMATE CHANGE: HOW DO INTERNATIONAL BODIES AND NATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTES ON OSH ADDRESS ITS CHALLENGES?
Authors: Gagliardi Diana , Valenti Antonio , Bonafede Michela , Cannone Erika , Boccuni Valeria , Marinaccio Alessandro
Published: July 2024

I National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL), Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Rome, Italy

Introduction

Climate change and environmental degradation are major threats for the economic, social and environmental pillars of sustainable development as well as for the achievement of the relevant objectives of the UN 2030 Agenda.

Materials and Methods

The ecological transition has a relevant impact on occupational safety and health (OSH). New technologies, new ways of performing traditional jobs, traditional risks imported into totally diverse working conditions as well as the impact of climate change on work environments are all challenges that OSH must address. Research programmes and activities of an international organization and of a national research institute will be analysed.

Results

ICOH, the leading international scientific association in OSH, pays special attention to the impact of climate change on working conditions and occupational risks and supports research and interventions in different areas and sectors of exposure to these risks. The National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL) is engaged in multidisciplinary and integrated activities aimed at anticipating and managing new and emerging risks linked to novel work organization models as well as to the evolution of production processes stimulated by climate change and the ongoing green transition.

Conclusions

Notwithstanding the context where research is developed (a national institute for OSH research or an international professional association), designing just research questions, raising awareness and involving the right stakeholders are key actions to define the most appropriate solutions to protect the health and safety of all the workers employed in the green economy sector or exposed to the risks related to climate change.
SS23-05 ADVANCING TECHNICAL RESOURCES FOR OCCUPATIONAL TOXICOLOGY
Authors: Hogan Martin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The presentation discusses advancements in computer-based assessments of likely toxicological properties of both new and old chemical entities, so called, in silica assessments.

Materials and Methods

A literature review was carried out.

Results

Traditional toxicological assessments use a combination of laboratory-based experiments, in vitro testing, as well as studies largely using experimental animals, in vivo. These could be slow and expensive and largely could not be extrapolated beyond the chemical that was being studied. Qualitative Structural Activity Relationship (QSAR) has contributed to a revolutionary change in toxicological assessments. An increasing number of these computer-based programs are becoming available for molecular analysis. QSAR can be used to predict the biochemical, physical, pharmaceutical, biological and other effects based on the chemical arrangement of a molecule. It can be used to predict both harmful and potentially beneficial effects of molecules that have not even yet been manufactured. It is playing a leading role in pharmaceutical development but also predicting potentially adverse human health effects before they occur. Multiple molecules can be analysed at the same time. Potential carcinogens, mutagens sensitisers and other effects can be anticipated and avoided by not even manufacturing that chemical.

Conclusions

QSAR is playing an ever more important role in toxicological assessments using predictive computer programs to assess potential effects.
SS24-02 CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE CHARACTERIZATION OF CARCINOGENS FOR CANCER HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Authors: Wedekind Roland
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The other two presentations in this session highlight examples of IARC Monographs evaluations in which studies in exposed workers provided important evidence on cancer in humans or mechanisms of carcinogenesis. Since the update of the Preamble in 2019, the IARC Monographs contain a formal critical appraisal of the exposure assessment quality in human cancer and mechanistic studies. This presentation describes the workflow of this procedure and applications to some examples.

Materials and Methods

The steps of the exposure assessment critique as outlined by the IARC Monographs Preamble are presented. Former Monographs evaluations were used as case studies to identify the exposure assessment domains that were most informative for judging study quality.

Results

A common approach was used to evaluate the exposure assessment quality in the Monographs on (i) 1,1,1 trichloroethane, (ii) antimony and (iii) occupational exposure as a firefighter. Some criteria were adjusted for different agents, such as the studies’ definition of the exposure, information on exposure routes, and the assessment of co-exposures. Agent-specific knowledge is required concerning exposure assessment methods and potential co-exposures to identify the strengths and limitations of the exposure assessments performed in human cancer and mechanistic studies.

Conclusions

Evaluating the quality of exposure assessment methods in studies with exposed humans is a critical step needed to judge the studies’ quality and informativeness. The structured process formally introduced since the new Preamble can improve transparency and consistency in the application of evidence synthesis frameworks for future IARC working groups and other scientific review panels.
SS28 THE FUTURE OF WORK AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: ETHICAL ISSUES AND PROPOSED SOLUTIONS
Authors: Rantanen Jorma , Valenti Antonio
Published: July 2024

Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, globalization, demographic changes, the introduction of new technologies, and possible risks of new pandemics and emergencies have enhanced the ethical challenges in public health and occupational health. It is the ethical duty of occupational health experts to be prepared for such challenges. Prediction of future risks is an essential strategy for ensuring our preparedness. In both the preparedness and actual response, confidentiality, objectivity, integrity, conflict of interest, and communication about health hazards are important for experts in their relationships with individual workers, with employers and employees’ representatives, colleagues in the health sector, and the public.
SS28-01 COVID-19 PANDEMIC: LESSONS FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ETHICS
Authors: Valenti Antonio , Boccuni Valeria , Cannone Erika , Gagliardi Diana
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 emergency has reshaped the way we live and work, leading at the same time to the revisiting of traditional ethical principles and the emerging of ethical issues related to public health and occupational health in the form of resource allocation, priority-setting, physical distancing, public health surveillance, healthcare worker's rights and obligations to conduct clinical trials, etc.

Materials and Methods

Thanks to a comprehensive analysis of recent policy documents from the main international and national organizations, institutions, agencies, and research articles, we identified some drivers and barriers for correct professional ethics that can represent a starting point to acknowledge some proposals for ethical solutions.

Results

Ethical aspects in the pandemic policies and practices have not received sufficient attention. The presence of numerous variables to consider, as well as the growing number of potential stakeholders involved in ethical choice, prevented the identification of an ideal proposal able to solve ethical challenges in occupational health practice.

Conclusions

The logic of an integrated approach must take account of the importance of all three types of ethics: personal (individual), professional and institutional. Discussion, analysis, problem solving, and decision-making are critical to the ethical resolution of conflicts. A key role is played by the occupational health professionals (OHPs) due to the increasing responsibilities of OHPs towards patient, employer, workers, government, companies, medical professionals and society at large.
SS29 THE HISTORY OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ON THE AFRICAN CONTINENT
Authors: Blanc Paul D
Published: July 2024

The first ICOH Congress being held in North Africa is an apt time and venue to consider occupational health on the continent from an historical perspective. By spanning the expanse of time from Antiquity through to the post-Colonial era, this special session will contextualize the topic in time and space.
SS29-03 NATURAL RESOURCES EXPLOITATION AND OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESS AND INJURY UNDER COLONIAL RULE: THE PARADIGM OF THE BELGIAN CONGO
Authors: Nemery Benoit
Published: July 2024

Introduction

During Belgian colonial rule of the Congo (1908-1960), the private company Union Minière du Haut-Katanga (UMHK) had a monopoly on mineral extraction and processing in southern Katanga (northern part of the African Copperbelt). Thousands of workers were employed in underground and open cast mines, and in metallurgical plants producing copper, cobalt, uranium, and many other metals.

Materials and Methods

Non-systematic literature review and limited archival research.

Results

In the first decades, worker shortage represented a major difficulty for the mining industry. Men were forcefully recruited from surrounding or even faraway regions to work for three to six months; poor working and living conditions led to high mortality from dysentery and pneumonia. Later, efforts were made to improve hygiene in worker camps, built following the South African Orenstein model of dormitories. However, largely at the initiative of medical doctors, the UMHK took measures aimed at “stabilizing” the workforce. This consisted in building worker camps (“cités”) with family housing, improving food rations, providing medical care and schools. This “totalitarian” policy was conducted without worker participation; unions were forbidden. Nevertheless, organized forms of resistance did occur, including a violently repressed strike in December 1941. Occupational accidents and work-related diseases (including silicosis) were recorded, but little information is publicly available about their prevention, incidence, and management.

Conclusions

UMHK medical services focused on prevention and management of common diseases for mine workers and their families. The history of occupational safety and health in natural resource exploitation under Belgian colonial rule remains to be written.
SS30-01 SUPPORT FOR TRANSPORT BUSINESS OWNERS: ROAD SAFETY IN THE CEMENT INDUSTRY
Authors: Andaloussi Saad Benjelloun
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The desire of cement manufactures to prevent road accidents and fatalities is also reflected in their commitment to support their carriers in the development and improvement of their internal road safety management systems.

Materials and Methods

This commitment resulted in the signing of a road safety charter and the creation of road safety collectives with support, audit and awareness-raising missions aimed at coaching and improving safety awareness of road safety. Trophies are also distributed to the most committed.

Results and Conclusions

A significant reduction in accidents was noted with a clear improvement in the involvement and commitment of carriers. We have achieved zero fatal accidents for several years and significantly reduced the number of road accidents.
SS30-03 FLEET PROCESSES AND MANAGEMENT OF TRUCKS IN THE CEMENT INDUSTRY
Authors: Haddad Redouane , Madadi Hicham
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Trucks working on behalf of cement manufacturers follow a control, inspection and maintenance process developed with a life log and rigorous monitoring.

Materials and Methods

An average age is established for all types of trucks. The latter are chosen according to the nature of the risk of the journey and the loading and unloading conditions. Trucks must always be adapted to the nature of the material loaded and unloaded.

Results and Conclusions

This management process helps reduce accidents on the road and during loading and unloading operations.
SS31-01 UNITED AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
Authors: Iden Ehi
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Occupational safety and health (OSH) across Africa is fast developing but notably within this development was the issue of silo working which characterised the efforts of great minds within the space of workplace health and safety improvement across the region. This adversely was leading to high duplication of efforts and resources doing work that may have been done by another practitioner in another country in Africa.

Materials and Methods

What we did was to deactivate this existing system and style of work and find a common ground to bring African OSH practitioners together to first know themselves, build trust, and collaborate in OSH studies and continuous sharing of data. The quickest way we could make this happen was to set up a WhatsApp Group for OSH practitioners across Africa and this grew over time, bringing people to relationships with opportunities to support each other.

Results

That singular effort has led to what we know today as OSHAfrica, giving opportunity to OSH practitioners across Africa to work together, learn together, share knowledge on systems improvement and build a huge network of support for each and every member.

Conclusions

We have come a long way and we are now of age doing great work across Africa through unified programmes implemented through sub-regional approaches in Africa.
SS31-03 RESEARCH IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (OSH) IN AFRICA: THE CURRENT TRAJECTORY
Authors: Gasana Janvier
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In Africa, research in OSH is quite limited due to the lack of graduate-research-based degree programs, the brain drain, and limited labor laws and legislations.

Methods

The modified Delphi Consensus approach was used in this cross-sectional study along with literature reviews of limited existing publications on OSH. Participants were African OSH specialists through the OSHAfrica platform through a link to the online Google Form survey of nine questions.

Results

Limited research shows workers with high levels of total mercury in the urine, injury rates of 14/1,000 workers, and high lead levels in blood and urine samples. The Delphi survey had more than 30% of participants as Nigerians followed by South Africans (17%). The OSH development in their country was rated by 33% of the participants at 5 on a scale (0 -10) and no participant gave it 10.

Discussion

Urgent need exists for OSH development in Africa and research capacity building. Baseline (pilot) OSH studies are suggested along with the use of Delphi Consensus approach among African OSH experts. Some African countries have national OSH policy and OSH education institutions, and many lack both. Research, surveillance, and analysis of existing information to show the extent and cost of the burden caused by occupational risks are important factors in gaining political commitment.

Conclusion

Given the many industries that are in Africa, there is a compelling need for OSH policies and regulations from an OSH regulatory authority, and OSH research capacity building by existing African training centres and universities with the support of the African Union.
SS32 MANAGEMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL POISONINGS IN MOROCCO
Authors: Rhalem Naima
Published: July 2024

The Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance Centre of Morocco (CAPM), is a public institution affiliated to the Ministry of Health. Its objective is improving the health of the Moroccan population by reducing morbidity, mortality and economic expenses related to poisoning and adverse effects of health products. Since its creation in 1989, the CAPM has set up a medical telephone hotline operational 24 hours, intended for the public and health professionals, including occupational physicians. The CAPM is responsible for responding, particularly in the event of an emergency, to any request for risk assessment and any request for opinion or advice concerning the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of human poisoning, whether accidental or voluntary, individual or collective, acute or not, caused by any natural or synthetic product or substance, available on the market or present in the environment or in the workplace.

The CAPM has a toxicology and clinical pharmacology laboratory, operational since 1994. It covers emergency medical toxicology as well as drug dosages for the therapeutic monitoring of patients. Furthermore, the CAPM has an antidote unit which ensures the availability and rationalization of the use of antidotes necessary to improve the management of poisonings. However, the CAPM suffers from under-reporting concerning professional poisoning which requires the establishment of collaboration between the CAPM and the associations of occupational physicians to realize the interest of the spontaneous notification of occupational poisonings, which will allow the tracing of the epidemiological profile for this type of poisoning and to establish integrated strategies for managing these poisonings.
SS33 RECOGNISED OCCUPATIONAL CVD RISK FACTORS: TIME TO START A PREVENTION ‘TOTAL WORKER HEALTH’ APPROACH?
Authors: Tsutsumi Akizumi
Published: July 2024

The aims of the Session are to summarise evidence-based results of solid epidemiological studies and meta-analysis, assessing the associations between cardio-vascular diseases (CVDs) and more prevalent occupational risk factors, i.e. sedentarism and occupational strenuous activities, long work hours, shift-work and night-work, work stress and strain.

Emphasis will be given to protection and preventive trials assessing the efficacy of collective and individual-level measures to reduce these risks, i.e. organisational changes and a clinical approach to characterize subjects at higher risk who may better benefit from behavioural and protection interventions, adopting a ‘Total Worker Health’ approach.
SS33-01 WORK STRESS AND CVD RISK: REASONS FOR, AND EVIDENCE OF, INTERVENTIONS
Authors: Siegrist Johannes
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and specifically ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke, are major contributors to the global burden of mortality. Important modifiable CVD risk factors were established. Among those, distinct stressful working conditions were identified, based on epidemiologic cohort studies testing theoretical models of adverse psychosocial work. Two such models, demand control (DC) and effort-reward imbalance (ERI), were analysed most widely so far, specifically as predictors of incident IHD. Evidence on these associations is summarized, and implications for workplace interventions are discussed.

Materials and Methods

To this end, results derived from nine systematic reviews and meta-analyses of the DC model (five reports) and the ERI model (four reports) were screened and summarized, comprising data from more than 20 cohort studies. These findings were supplemented by those of three recent studies that tested the combined effects of the two models on IHD risk.

Results

For each model, relative risks of IHD among exposed versus non-exposed people were significantly increased, with effect sizes varying between 1.2 and 1.5, after adjustment for relevant confounders. Effects were stronger and more consistent among men than among women. In addition to separate effects, combined exposure to the two work stress conditions (three studies) exerted an additive, but not a synergistic effect on IHD risk.

Conclusions

Given that every fifth worker is exposed to one of these risks, a potential preventable disease burden is considerable. Thus, implementation of theory-based worksite preventive programmes is recommended. First respective intervention studies documented promising improvements.