bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Property Variations in Modern REBCO Coated Conductors from Multiple Manufacturers
Authors: Bradford G , Jaroszynski J , Murphy G , Polyanskii A , Lee J , Larbalestier D C
Published: July 2024

The complex, multilayer structure of REBCO Coated Conductor (CC) poses significant challenges in the fabrication of high magnetic field devices where large stresses may initiate various forms of damage. Our goal is to peer below the cartoon representations of CC so that, amongst other things, we might better understand whether a CC from one manufacturer is interchangeable with that from another. This involves knowledge of a broad range of electromagnetic, geometric, microstructural, and Jc
(θ,B,T) properties, and their variations that collectively pose challenges for the fault tolerance of REBCO CC devices. Accordingly, comparative measurements of Jc
, visualization of flux penetration with Magneto-Optical Imaging (MOI), tape geometry from Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) of polished cross-sections, and extensive optical microscopy was performed on recently purchased samples from multiple manufacturers. Our analyses reveal many deviations from or characteristics absent from manufacturers’ specifications, while a comparison of different manufacturers’ mechanically and laser slit tapes shows a diverse array of slitting characteristics amongst the manufacturers and variation in properties those made to the same specification. Laser slit tapes from several manufacturers reveal ablated edges with damaged regions extending up to 50 μm, comparable to the damaged region found in the mechanically slit CC of this study. Overall, the aim of this study is to flesh out appropriate ways to understand the real conductor below the manufacturers’ cartoons to avoid surprises in our REBCO CC coil development program. The goal of this work was to perform a broad array of characterizations of the type needed for validation of purpose for making high field magnets: to our surprise we found a wide range of properties which greatly impact the mechanical strength and electromagnetic performance of solenoids composed of these conductors and reinforced the need for a broad characterization program for each conductor prior to its implementation.
Characterizing MEMS Switch Reliability for Cryogenic Applications such as Quantum Computing
Authors: Bradley Peter , Sorenson Elizabeth , Lauria Damian , Liew Li-Anne
Published: July 2024

Micro Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) switches offer many advantages over conventional larger switches. One potential application we are exploring is the use of commercial radio frequency (RF) MEMS switches for quantum computing applications. However, it is well-documented that cryogenic temperatures can cause mechanical reliability issues for MEMS. Furthermore, commercial RF MEMS switches are designed for room temperature operation, thus their reliability at cryogenic temperatures is unknown. Commercial MEMS switches are also packaged inside sealed housings, which prevent the use of optical methods for characterization and inspection. We are therefore developing test methods to evaluate the reliability of commercial RF MEMS switches at cryogenic temperatures. We describe our test methods and preliminary reliability test data from room temperature down to 55 K.
High attenuation electromagnetic interface filter for effective processing of audio signals
Authors: Prasanna Dasari Lakshmi , Tripathi Suman Lata , Mahmud Mufti , Wijayanto Inung
Published: July 2024

Suppressing the noise or unwanted signal from the raw signal makes the system work efficiently. Electromagnetic interface (EMI) can cause the system/device to lose the data, damage the electronic equipment, interrupt the audio, or video signals, lead to poor reception, etc EMI filters are used in telecommunications, military equipment, satellite communication, etc At the industry level, EMI filters are used for home appliances, medical equipment, motor controls, test equipment, etc In this paper, active and passive EMI filters are designed to avoid or attenuate EMI or noise (unwanted EMI signal) and implemented on Xilinx Nexys 4 Artix 7 FPGA board. The filters provide a significant improvement in the attenuation of the EMI. MATLAB tool is used to design the filters, which are highly immune to undesired signals, give better stability, and perform over a wide range of frequencies. Depending on the filters’ coefficients, the frequency response will be changed. Phase response and amplitude response of the EMI filters are calculated. Insertion loss of the active filter is 1.5836, and for the passive filter, 1.9382. The gain of active and passive filters is 0.7359 and 0.912 respectively. The return loss of the active and passive EMI filters is 20 dB. HDL code is generated using MATLAB for the implementation of filter on FPGA. Using MATLAB HDL coder for implementing is new and it simplifies the design, as a result development time is reduced. Xilinx Vivado tool is used for the implementation of active filter. The total on-chip power is 0.146 W. Dynamic power is 0.049 W, and device static power is 0.097 W. The utilization of LUTs and slice registers are less, compared to the previous filter implementation, which leads to reduce the cost of hardware implementation.
The interrelationship between multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) and delirium: a scoping review
Authors: Richardson Sarah Joanna , Cropp Alexandria Danielle , Ellis Samantha Wilhelmina , Gibbon Jake , Sayer Avan Aihie , Witham Miles David
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Delirium and multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) share numerous risk factors and have been shown individually to be associated with adverse outcomes following hospitalisation. However, the extent to which these common ageing syndromes have been studied together is unknown. This scoping review aims to summarise our knowledge to date on the interrelationship between MLTC and delirium.

Methods

Searches including terms for delirium and MLTC in adult human participants were performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, Psycinfo and CINAHL. Descriptive analysis was used to summarise findings, structured according to Synthesis Without Meta-analysis reporting guidelines.

Results

After removing duplicates, 5256 abstracts were screened for eligibility, with 313 full-texts sought along with 17 additional full-texts from references in review articles. In total, 140 met inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Much of the literature explored MLTC as a risk factor for delirium (n = 125). Fewer studies explored the impact of MLTC on delirium presentation (n = 5), duration (n = 3) or outcomes (n = 6) and no studies explored how MLTC impacts the treatment of delirium or whether having delirium increases risk of developing MLTC. The most frequently used measures of MLTC and delirium were the Charlson Comorbidity Index (n = 98/140) and Confusion Assessment Method (n = 81/140), respectively.

Conclusion

Existing literature largely evaluates MLTC as a risk factor for delirium. Major knowledge gaps identified include the impact of MLTC on delirium treatment and the effect of delirium on MLTC trajectories. Current research in this field is limited by significant heterogeneity in defining both MLTC and delirium.
Use of Maternal Race and Weight Provides Equitable Performance in Serum Screening for Open Neural Tube Defects
Authors: Messerlian Geralyn , Strickland Sydney Webb , Willbur Jordan , Vaughan Christine , Koenig Shelby , Wright Taylor , Palomaki Glenn E
Published: July 2024

Background

Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels are used in screening for open neural tube defects (ONTD). Historical reports show that AFP levels and maternal weights are higher in self-reported Black than White individuals, but recent reports question the need to account for these variables in screening. Our study compares screening performance with and without accounting for race.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed on deidentified prenatal screening records including maternal weight and self-reported race of White or Black. Gestational age-specific medians and weight-adjusted multiples of the median levels were calculated separately for each group and using a race-agnostic analysis. Outcome measures included the proportion of screen-positive results.

Results

Records for analysis (n = 13 316) had an ultrasound confirmed gestational age between 15 and 21 completed weeks, singleton pregnancy, and self-reported race. Race was Black for 26.3%. AFP levels for pregnancies in Black individuals were higher than in White individuals: 6% to 11% depending on gestational age. Race-specific gestational age and maternal weight analyses resulted in similar screen-positive rates for self-reported White and Black individuals at 0.74% vs 1.00%, respectively (P = 0.14). However, use of race-agnostic analyses resulted in a screen-positive rate that was 2.4 times higher in Black than White individuals (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

These data show that the historical method of accounting for maternal race and weight in prenatal screening for ONTD provides equitable performance. Using a race-agnostic methodology results in an increased screen-positive rate and a disproportionate rate of required follow-up care for individuals who self-identify as Black.
Competition between brown stink bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) and corn earworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in field corn
Authors: Bryant Tim B , Greene Jeremy K , Reay-Jones Francis P F
Published: July 2024

Interspecific competition is an important ecological concept which can play a major role in insect population dynamics. In the southeastern United States, a complex of stink bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), primarily the brown stink bug, Euschistus servus (Say), and corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), are the 2 most common pests of field corn, Zea mays L. (Poales: Poaceae). Stink bugs have the greatest potential for economic injury during the late stages of vegetative corn development when feeding can result in deformed or “banana-shaped” ears and reduced grain yield. Corn earworm moths lay eggs on corn silks during the first stages of reproductive development. A 2-year field study was conducted to determine the impact of feeding by the brown stink bug during late-vegetative stages on subsequent corn earworm oviposition, larval infestations, and grain yield. Brown stink bug feeding prior to tasseling caused deformed ears and reduced overall grain yield by up to 92%. Across all trials, varying levels of brown stink bug density and injury reduced the number of corn earworm larvae by 29–100% and larval feeding by 46–85%. Averaged across brown stink bug densities, later planted corn experienced a 9-fold increase in number of corn earworm larvae. This is the first study demonstrating a competitive interaction between these major pests in a field corn setting, and these results have potential implications for insect resistance management.
phoenix: an R package and Python module for calculating the Phoenix pediatric sepsis score and criteria
Authors: DeWitt Peter E , Russell Seth , Rebull Margaret N , Sanchez-Pinto L Nelson , Bennett Tellen D
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The publication of the Phoenix criteria for pediatric sepsis and septic shock initiates a new era in clinical care and research of pediatric sepsis. Tools to consistently and accurately apply the Phoenix criteria to electronic health records (EHRs) is one part of building a robust and internally consistent body of research across multiple research groups and datasets.

Materials and Methods

We developed the phoenix R package and Python module to provide researchers with intuitive and simple functions to apply the Phoenix criteria to EHR data.

Results

The phoenix R package and Python module enable researchers to apply the Phoenix criteria to EHR datasets and derive the relevant indicators, total scores, and sub-scores.

Discussion

The transition to the Phoenix criteria marks a major change in the conceptual definition of pediatric sepsis. Applicable across differentially resourced settings, the Phoenix criteria should help improve clinical care and research.

Conclusion

The phoenix R package and Python model are freely available on CRAN, PyPi, and GitHub. These tools enable the consistent and accurate application of the Phoenix criteria to EHR datasets.
SPL15 POST-PANDEMIC OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES IN GUANGDONG PROVINCE, CHINA
Authors: Chen Jiabin
Published: July 2024

The speaker introduced the new situation faced by enterprises and occupational health work in Guangdong Province after the epidemic, and introduced the development of occupational health service in Guangdong Province under the new situation.

The speech will include:

1. Introduced the development process of industrial hygiene, occupational hygiene, occupational health and the whole population’s occupational health in China.

2. Introduced the difficulties faced by enterprises in Guangdong Province after the epidemic and the practices of resuming work and production.

3. It was introduced that there are 476 occupational health service institutions in 21 cities in Guangdong Province, including occupational health examination, occupational disease diagnosis, occupational health testing and evaluation, radiological health testing and evaluation, and some pneumoconiosis treatment and rehabilitation stations.

4. It is pointed out that noise, occupational stress and musculoskeletal diseases are the key problems facing occupational health in the whole life cycle.

5. The content of occupational health in Healthy China Action 2030 was introduced.

6. Eight specific tasks for occupational disease prevention and control during the 14th Five-Year Plan period in China are introduced.

7. The paper introduced the effective methods of occupational health services in Guangdong Province, including the special management of occupational disease hazard factors, the prevention and treatment of traditional occupational diseases and the response to new occupational health hazard factors, and the exploration and trial of new occupational health education models. To carry out occupational health training in key areas and industries for the public, peer enterprises and regional industries, further implement preventive measures, carry out occupational health evaluation and strengthen occupational health supervision.
SPL23 DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A CORE OUTCOME SET FOR WORK AND OTHER PLANS TO IMPROVE EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS IN THE FIELD OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
Authors: Hoving Jan
Published: July 2024

The past decades, intervention research investigating the evidence for occupational health interventions, has seen a dramatic increase in trial publications. Although the number of intervention studies and systematic reviews on topics like the prevention of sick leave and return to work is growing, advancements in the measurement of work-related outcomes in these intervention studies are lagging behind. Authors of systematic reviews and Cochrane systematic reviews therefore consistently recommend improvements in the definition of work-related outcomes and their standardized use.

Recognizing the need for international consensus on the measurement of work outcomes in intervention research, an international consortium of researchers, supported by Cochrane Work and Cochrane Insurance Medicine (united in the Cochrane Work & Health & Social Security Thematic Group: https://www.cochrane.org/about-us/our-global-community/thematic-groups/work-health-and-social-security) has launched several studies as part of the ‘Core Outcome Set-For-Work’ research program (www.cosforwork.org) which is now entering its second phase.

The presentation will highlight several studies leading up to the development of a Core Outcome Set for Work, including practical examples that show some of the challenges for stakeholders to agree on something as vital as work outcomes. The presentation will also include the Core Outcome Set itself. Although we have defined ‘which’ outcomes COS for Work should measure, such as return to work, more research is planned to investigate ‘how’ these COS outcomes can be measured in the form of self-report and in registries. In addition, plans for further studies on COS for Work, including its implementation, are planned and will form part of the presentation.

Looking at evidence synthesis within occupational health and safety, there is not only a need for more international consensus and harmonisation of work outcomes, but also a need adopt, refine or develop current classifications for interventions and (worker) populations in occupational health. Thoughts on how to proceed are likewise presented, including a recent initiative to collaborate on the topic of evidence synthesis in occupational health (www.evidenceforwork.org).
SS02-01 LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK GOVERNING OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES IN MOROCCO
Authors: Feriss Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Occupational diseases are mainly regulated by the Dahir (Law) of May 31, 1943 and partially by law no. 18-12 on compensation for workplace accidents, which came into force at the beginning of 2015. The list of occupational diseases, determined by the Minister in charge of Labor since 2014, includes 111 categories.

Regarding insurance, the Insurance Code and the Order of the Minister in charge of Finance that sets the standard terms and conditions for occupational injury and professional illness insurance contracts, treat both risks “workplace accident” and “occupational disease” alike. Consequently, employers can underwrite both these risks under a single contract with insurance companies to cover their liability.

Unlike occupational accidents, underwriting an occupational disease insurance is optional. This poses an adverse selection risk, where only high-risk industries seek coverage and making it difficult for businesses with frequent claims to secure affordable premiums. A recent study by ACAPS, in collaboration with the Ministry in charge of Labor and in consultation with various stakeholders: (i) Concluded the need to revise the regulations governing professional illnesses to align with evolving employment sectors and emerging risks and establish a more efficient mechanism for updating the list of professional illnesses and streamline reporting and compensations processes; (ii) Emphasized the importance of workplace risk preventing, monitoring insurance compliance, and handling cases of coverage refusals; and (iii) Highlighted the experience and expertise gained by insurance companies in covering the risk of professional illness, making them the most suitable option for the widespread adoption of occupational disease insurance.
SS03-05 THE CONNECTIONS AMONG POVERTY, EDUCATION, WORK AND THE CLIMATE AGENDA
Authors: Limongi-França Ana Cristina , France Ana Carlota , Freitag Bárbara Beatriz , Martins Edson Miranda , Lopes Luis Felipe , de Almeida Manuel Athanazio , Mendes Paulo Bergsten , Gruber Thiago
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Underneath the forests there are people in complex and highly diverse living conditions. Societies have been named as Society 5.0-Hyper Connection; Smart Life Mediation Society and A.I. Smart Cities. Current trends and perspectives are indicators to strengthen what can be called “The connection” linking past, present and future, as a number of elements of the societies must be integrated. E.g. technology, connectivity and data, inequalities, psychological safety, monetization of activities, COVID-19 mutations, politics, science, etc.

Methods

An exploratory survey was carried out aiming to understand the perception of connections among climate change and relationships with education, poverty, and work. A Google Form was distributed in September 2023. A total of 244 participants (students and teachers) answered a number of questions relating poverty, education, work and climate change. Descriptive analysis was performed. Their age ranged from 10 to 90+ years; 66% were women.

Results

Only 14.3% were aware of the Climate Agenda and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); 13.1% were partially aware and 72.6% were not aware; 67.5% declared that some companies organized actions related to the SDGs. Regarding impacts of the SDGs on quality of life and work, SDG 4 - education was the most cited (50.2%) followed by SDG 8 - work (36.2%) and SDG 1 - poverty (93.3%).

Conclusions

Significant changes in societies are required to improve people's well-being and quality of life at work. This preliminary survey showed only partially quality of life at work was perceived as part of the climate agenda. Acknowledgment of SDGs and their importance to reduce inequalities is uppermost in priority and should be encouraged by distinct stakeholders.
SS05-04 FROM SPORES TO SYMPTOMS: A CASE SERIES UNRAVELLING MOULD EXPOSURE AND HEALTH RISKS IN DIVERSE OCCUPATIONAL SETTINGS
Authors: Singh Tanusha , Muleba Lufuno , Duba Thabang , Muvhali Munyadziwa , Ratshikhopha Edith , Matuka Dikeledi
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The growing prominence of mould exposure in indoor settings, especially water-damaged structures, raised concerns in occupational health due to its multifarious and ubiquitous nature. This study aims to reveal the complexity of mould investigations in various workplaces, shedding light on exposure profiles, transmission routes and associated health risks.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed across multiple South African workplaces. Data encompassing environmental monitoring, air and surface sampling and employee health assessments were collected. The study period spanned 2000 to 2023, allowing for a robust assessment of mould-related issues in different environments. Analysis was done using Microsoft Excel.

Results

Occupational settings investigated included a biocontrol manufacturing plant, document warehouse, pathology laboratory, leather tanning and processing, museum, packaging factory and offices. A wide range of mould species (Alternaria, Aspergillus, Beauveria, Bipolaris, Cladosporium, Curvularia, Epicoccum, Penicillium, Rhizomucor and Rhizopus) and concentrations range (10-2500 cfu/m3), varying significantly between species and occupational settings was found. A myriad of symptoms and immunological responses were associated with detected species. Conditions included occupational rhinitis, asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Specific industries may be more susceptible to mould-related problems due to the nature of work processes and others due to poorly managed environmental conditions.

Conclusions

This series underscores the importance of conducting mould investigations to assess and mitigate occupational health risks, understanding factors contributing to mould growth and potential health effects and formulating preventive measures.
SS07-02 A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE: DIGITAL INSIGHTS INTO CRISIS COMMUNICATION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC - LESSONS LEARNED FOR WORKERS, WORKPLACES AND OUR COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE
Authors: Lum Max
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The continued emergence of pathogens may be the norm with major impacts on the health and safety creating crippling economic burdens on workers, workplaces, and public health organizations. Effective public health surveillance, action and speed requires immediate communication initiatives, moving digital applications and strategies to the forefront of emergency response tools with associated new technological challenges.

Materials and Methods

This analysis examines crisis communication response to COVID-19 in organizations as a reflection of the success of individual country response. It provides a comparative analysis of selected country case studies (Asian, Nordics, Europe, North America) and their adoption of digital tools and applications. The approach uses CDC’s crisis and emergency risk communication (CERC) as an analytical framework. CERC provides a framework for applicability during a pandemic crisis often fraught with mixed messages, imagined science, disinformation, and low public understanding and trust.

Results

This analysis concludes with offering seven cardinal rules and an underlying perspective - basically an initial ‘digital lessons learned’ for our community of practice in applying appropriate technology and applications during a pandemic.

Conclusion

The use of appropriate technological tools is critical during a biological emergency. Beyond surveillance and monitoring there is a strong need for information to evolve during a crisis. Different digital applications can help workers, workplaces, and communities to be safe, cope mentally and connect to a deeper sense of purpose and resilience.

Disclaimer

The findings and conclusions in this paper are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of NIOSH
SS09-02 BUILDING GLOBAL CONSENSUS FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (OH&S) MANAGEMENT THROUGH ISO STANDARDIZATION - PART 2
Authors: Humphreys Lachean
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Occupational health and safety (OH&S) challenges are also evolving and changing - demographic changes, technologic advances, and the effects of climate change all present changes to the workplace. Standards development provides a powerful mechanism for collaboration and for the sharing of experience, with almost 100 countries currently involved in the work of ISO/TC 283.

Materials and Methods

This part of the session will introduce other areas of focus for ISO/TC 283, highlighting the extensive international participation including from developing countries and the opportunities to further extend this involvement. It will also introduce the work of Task Groups, which are undertaking work which supports the development of ISO/TC 283’s standards, or in some cases to undertake preliminary work for new standards. For example, two current areas of focus are OH&S impacts of climate change and the challenges of OH&S management in small organizations.

Results

This part of the session will include an overview of the committee’s work, and an opportunity for questions from the audience.

Conclusion

Participants will gain an understanding of the wide participation in ISO/TC 283 and the various work it undertakes to address the global challenges of OH&S.
SS11-02 CURRENT STATUS AND CHALLENGES OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE EDUCATION IN AFRICA
Authors: Omokhodion Folashade , Cloeren Marianne , Gasana Janvier
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The paucity of occupational and environmental medicine (OEM) physicians in Africa may likely be related to the lack of training opportunities. There is a need to assess the current status of OEM education in Africa.

Methods

We conducted an internet search for OEM residency and postgraduate programmes in Africa. We contacted international OEM organizations to supply names and contacts of African OEM physicians on their membership lists. Personal contact was also utilized. Personal contact with snowballing will continue at the ICOH2024 Congress to obtain more information from attendees.

Results

Internet links to OEM residency programmes were found for Egypt and South Africa. Information on OEM residency in Nigeria and Ghana was provided by personal contact. South Africa, Tunisia, Benin Republic, Tanzania, Kenya and Nigeria offer Masters programmes in occupational health.

Discussion

OEM residency programmes in Egypt and South Africa are well established. New national OEM residency programmes were recently developed in Ghana and Nigeria. Most occupational physicians in Africa trained in Europe, USA and South Africa. The cost of training in these countries is prohibitive as currencies in several African countries have been devalued. African physicians need training in OEM to increase the health workforce required to address the high rates of occupational accidents and diseases in formal and informal workplaces across the continent.

Conclusion

There is a need for African countries to develop OEM residency programmes and new methods of training - virtual or hybrid - to meet the needs for certification and re-certification of OEM physicians across Africa.
SS13-01 CHALLENGES ASSOCIATED WITH DIAGNOSIS OF OCCUPATIONAL CANCERS IN SOUTHERN AFRICA
Authors: Moyo Dingani
Published: July 2024

Southern Africa is facing an unprecedented triple epidemic of silicosis, HIV and tuberculosis. Exposure to silica dust is one of the commonest exposures in mining environments and worse so amongst artisanal and small-scale miners. There is a paucity of research on occupational respiratory cancers across all the southern African states with the exception of South Africa.

Materials and Methods

A literature review was conducted to ascertain the burden of occupational respiratory cancers in southern Africa, excluding South Africa. This was complemented by the author’s regional experience in managing several projects dealing with occupational respiratory conditions in southern Africa.

Results

There is a dearth of published research on occupational respiratory cancers in southern Africa. Despite an increase in occupational lung diseases among artisanal and small-scale miners, there still remains a paucity of published research on occupational lung cancers. This correlates well with the infancy of occupational health services and deficits of expertise in diagnostic skills for occupational diseases. The major challenge is a lack of expertise in diagnosing occupational diseases and work-related diseases, including occupational cancers. There are no specific occupational cancer registries in most southern African countries. The high cost of healthcare and lack of infrastructure and equipment are significant hindrances in the diagnosis of occupational cancers.

Conclusions

There is an urgent need to conduct research on occupational cancers in southern Africa. Infrastructural improvements and capacity building in diagnostic skills for occupational diseases including cancers is critical.
SS13-02 OCCUPATIONAL CANCER IN NEW ZEALAND
Authors: Zaidi Moazzam , McBride David
Published: July 2024

Introduction

According to the Occupational Cancer Convention, 1974 (No.139), each member state shall make efforts to reduce the carcinogenic agents at their workplace. In 2012, the Australian Work Exposures Study estimated that 3.6 million workers (40%) of the working population, were likely exposed to carcinogens in the workplace. In 2013, the Global Burden of Disease Study estimated that there were 314,000 occupational cancer deaths worldwide.

Materials and Methods

The literature review showed that the most recent and comprehensive analysis of workers being exposed to carcinogens in New Zealand was the “New Zealand Carcinogens Survey 2021” which used the Occupational Integrated Database Exposure Assessment System. It covered 50 carcinogens from Group One and Group 2A (IARC criteria). The methods included cognitive testing, fieldwork, and exposure assessment. Data of 4,500 workers was gathered from January to December 2021. It was then stratified and weighted based on the New Zealand population. In addition, previous reports prepared by the task forces and the Ministry of Labour were reviewed.

Results

The most common workplace carcinogens were benzene, solar UV, shift work, wood dust, and diesel engine exhaust. More than half of the workforce was probably exposed to at least a single carcinogen at some stage of their work life. Approximately 1/4 of them are likely exposed to up to five carcinogens. Mining was identified to be the most hazardous industry.

Conclusions

Industries that are likely to cause exposure to multiple carcinogens need to improve workplace practices, implement better controls, and provide awareness to the workers.
SS14-02 THE STATE OF THE ART ON THE EFFECTS AND THE BIOLOGICAL MONITORING OF NANOMATERIALS IN EXPOSED WORKERS
Authors: Iavicoli Ivo , Fontana Luca , Leso Veruscka
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The widespread production and application of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) and the consequent increasing occupational exposure make understanding ENM effects an occupational health priority. However, the great ENM variability, the low levels of exposure, the limited number of workers, and the still fragmented data on effects and biomarkers prevent the extrapolation of definite conclusions.

Materials and Methods

Epidemiological investigations addressing the possible adverse effects caused by the occupational exposure to ENMs and biological monitoring results have been reviewed.

Results

Retrieved studies were primarily performed on workers (from few to <300 exposed individuals) employed in ENM research labs or in factories manufacturing and/or applicating metal, metal oxide or carbon-based ENMs. Limited evidence of adverse effects was available in terms of changes in respiratory functionality or symptoms. However, increased levels of biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress and, those of respiratory, cardiovascular, haematological and immunological alterations in urine, blood and exhaled breath condensate of exposed workers, although with some conflicting results, support the possible adverse impact of ENMs on human health. Additionally, epigenetic modifications have been reported in exposed workers, although implications for adverse health outcomes are still not clear.

Conclusions

Future investigations aimed to clarify the health effects of ENMs and appropriate biomarkers should include a longitudinal design, a greater number of workers, a deeper characterization of ENMs, and a suitable evaluation of the exposure. Overall, this may be helpful to implement adequate ENM risk assessment and management strategies.
SS15-02 PREVENTION OF ACCIDENTS THROUGH APPLICATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AT LARGE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN INDIA
Authors: Sen Krishna Nirmalya , Muralidhar Gollapalli
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Employers are responsible to ensure occupational health, safety (OHS) and wellbeing of employees. Yet, large numbers of working populations in construction are prone to get affected at work, leading to high incidences of morbidity and mortality. Complex workplace conditions could aggravate this due to a multitude of factors. Fortunately, in recent years technological development has enhanced the capability of enhancing supervisory engagement and administrative overseeing on a continual basis.

Materials and Methods

Digital technological solutions can be applied at workplaces to prevent incidents and improve OHS performance. This includes, Building Information Modelling (BIM) which can improve project planning and execution, other digital applications for effective communication and collaboration, AI-enabled technology can help in remote and continuous surveillance, wearable sensing devices can be used for tracking and monitoring the targeted OHS attributes and parameters at various stages of the activities, and deliver precise support and insights to optimize the safety of the work site.

Results

Adoption of digital applications on multiple fronts resulted in marked improvement of OHS management parameters over the study period of 30 months. OHS compliance has improved which got reflected in OHS parameters resulting in reduction of incident frequency rates including near-misses.

Conclusions

Disruption by digital technologies is the order of the day. Since it has immense capabilities to support and enhance efficacy of traditional activities, we need to embrace it while trying to improve effectiveness and efficiency, leading towards reduced accidents including high potential near-miss incidents and operational excellence.
SS17-02 ENGAGING WITH STATE AND PRIVATE ACTORS TO EXTEND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY TO WORKERS IN INFORMAL EMPLOYMENT: BEST PRACTICES FROM THE WIEGO NETWORK
Authors: Braham Christy
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The majority of the world’s workers are informally employed, with 90% of all employment in developing countries being informal. Despite delivering an array of essential goods and services, workers in informal employment are often excluded from occupational health and safety provisions which, traditionally, only cover ‘formal’ workplaces and working arrangements - rendering them especially vulnerable to health risks.

Methods

In response, workers have mobilized within grassroots organizations to advocate for occupational health and safety (OHS) provisions at local, municipal and national level. These organizations - members of the Women in Informal Employment - Globalizing and Organizing [WIEGO] network - provide important examples of workers seeking accountability from the state and from private actors to extend the right to OHS to workers in informal employment.

Results

A home-based worker association in Thailand has worked with the state to integrate occupational health and safety services into primary healthcare, while domestic worker unions in South Africa have collaborated to successfully drive legal changes to secure compensation for illnesses, injuries and death caused by poor working conditions in private homes. Additionally, a trade union of waste-pickers in India has innovated to seek concessions from manufacturers whose production of waste in public spaces poses threats to workers’ health.

Conclusion

These initiatives offer important lessons on achieving OHS for workers in informal employment, challenging the notion of workers bearing full responsibility for occupational health and safety, and emphasizing the importance of both workers’ mobilization and active participation in political processes.
SS21-01 DEVELOPING APPROACHES FOR ASSESSMENT OF COMBINED EXPOSURES TO DIFFERENT ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Authors: Moretto Angelo
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Regulatory authorities now consider exposure to multiple chemicals in the risk assessments of substances. While the attention was initially mostly on food, workers’ exposure, in particular farmers’, to pesticides are now looked at.

Materials and Methods

There is general acceptance that synergy at low doses does not occur, or is toxicologically insignificant, though it can occur at high doses, i.e. at doses that do not occur in controlled working conditions. For dissimilarly acting chemicals, there is no robust evidence of mixture effects below their individual no-effect levels; for these substances the combined exposure need not be evaluated.

Results

There are different ways of assessing the risk, including, among others, the Hazard Index and the Relative Potency approaches. In both cases, essential information includes toxicological dose-response, and intensity and duration (e.g. hours per day, days per year) of exposure. While toxicological data can be derived from the dossiers submitted by the manufacturers for registration of the active ingredient, exposure data are much more difficult to obtain.

Conclusions

Several models exits, such as that of the European Food Safety Authority, to estimate exposure based on different parameters associated with a specific application. Models take also into account personal protective equipment that is not always properly worn, and hence, in real life, models need to be adapted to such situations. However, little information is available on frequency of exposure, i.e. how many days per week/month/year. Frequency depends, among others, on the crop, the size of the fields and the disease to be treated.
SS21-05 CREATION AND VALIDATION OF A TOOL FOR PREVENTIVE RISK ASSESSMENT IN AGRICULTURE
Authors: Colosio Claudio , Rajcevic Stefan Mandic , Rubino Federico Maria , Lombardi Mara , Berardi Davide , Fargnoli Mario , Puri Daniele , Laurendi Vincenzo
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Doing pesticide risk assessment in agriculture is very complicated, and the most used tools, biological and environmental monitoring, give information regarding risk after application has been done and not before. Therebefore, there is the need of creating tools adequate to the purpose of preventive risk assessment in agricultural activities. In this frame, we have worked at the creation of a tool adequate for the purpose and usable directly by the workers before starting application.

Materials and Methods

We have created an algorithm which closely follows the source-receptor model that has been long tested in the German Model, in the EU-POEM and in the EFSA model, and uses numerical constants for the deposition rates of pesticides and for the protection efficiency of clothing that are derived from in field studies and we have collected in a targeted database the main physical and chemical characteristics of the pesticides used in Italy.

Results

Cross linking occupational exposure risk with pesticide hazard class allows describing the planned operation in a contingency table that identifies unacceptable working conditions of exposure to hazardous pesticides and progressively safer conditions, towards the optimal one of low exposure to relatively benign products. The system is running in an application which can be easily uploaded an any smart phone. Conclusions Our tool enables farmers to decide before application whether the planned activities pose an unacceptable risk or not, and helps in deciding the most appropriate risk management interventions. The risk estimates provided by the model are now being validated in targeted in field studies.
SS22 INNOVATIONS IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH POLICY AND PRACTICE: PROMOTING THE FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT TO A SAFE AND HEALTHY WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Jain Aditya
Published: July 2024

The changing social, economic, technological and environmental landscape impacts the availability and quality of work and employment in organizations across all sectors and in all regions of the world. In 2022, the principle of a safe and healthy working environment was added to the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. The landmark decision means that all ILO Member States commit to respect and promote the fundamental right to a safe and healthy working environment, whether or not they have ratified the relevant Conventions (e.g. C155, C187, C190) (ILO, 2022).

This initiative is expected to significantly help improve the implementation of occupational health policy and practice across the world, both in developed and developing countries, which will be examined and discussed in this session. The five presentations in this session will discuss the implications of the ILO’s landmark decision on countries around the world as well as on policies relating to health of women and vulnerable workers. The presentations provide examples of good practice to promote occupational health policy and practice, lessons from other policy arenas such as environmental law, and insight into current and future national policy initiatives. There are clear opportunities for policy makers to align both regulatory and other policy approaches on occupational health, safety and wellbeing, with regulatory mechanisms to protect and promote human rights, as well as standards to promote responsible business practices, which can not only help in optimization of resource use, but also promote OSH higher up the policy agenda.
SS23-03 BUILDING A POSITIVE AND SAFE CULTURE IN THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
Authors: Rallapalli Rajesh
Published: July 2024

The chemical industry provides essential products for various sectors. However, its inherent complexities and potential hazards demand a strong commitment to fostering a positive and safe culture within the industry. Such a foundation begins with strong leadership commitment. Leaders must prioritize safety and promote a culture of open communication, where employees are empowered to report hazards and near misses without fear of retribution.

Implementing robust safety training programs tailored to the industry's unique risks equips employees with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and mitigate potential dangers effectively. Regular safety audits, incident investigations, and data-driven analysis help identify trends and areas for enhancement. Collaborative efforts among industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and research institutions facilitate the development and adoption of best practices and innovative technologies that enhance safety measures. The integration of behavioral safety initiatives complements technical protocols. Encouraging individual responsibility for safety fosters a collective commitment to risk reduction. Celebrating safety successes and promoting positive reinforcement mechanisms reinforce desired behaviors.

Hence, building a positive and safe culture in the chemical industry necessitates a multifaceted approach involving leadership commitment, comprehensive training, data-driven improvement, and behavioral interventions. By prioritizing the well-being of its workforce and surrounding communities, the industry can mitigate risks, prevent incidents, and contribute to sustainable development.
SS24 IARC MONOGRAPHS UPDATE: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES IN OCCUPATIONAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EXPOSURE CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: Schubauer-Berigan Mary
Published: July 2024

This session describes the latest information about cancer hazard identification by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monographs programme. For more than 50 years, studies of carcinogens in the workplace have greatly informed evaluations in the WHO’s ‘encyclopedia of carcinogens’.

New features of the IARC Monographs’ Preamble, which lays out the scientific evaluation procedures, emphasize the importance of exposure characterization and of mechanistic evidence in exposed humans.

The three presentations that will be given by scientific leaders in the IARC Monographs programme will provide context for the future directions in cancer hazard identification by IARC and will provide inspiration to the occupational cancer research and prevention community.
SS27-04 A WORK CULTURE OF CORE VALUES: TEARING DOWN WALLS, BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS
Authors: Nicholas Robin
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Work culture is personal. It is about how people experience their work, and ideally, how people can flourish in their work. Each person defines this culture with their own core values, relationships, and commitment.

Materials and Methods

Interviews with over 100 workers revealed their work culture. As people told their stories, they described what works, what does not, and what could work better. Further examples will illustrate how core values can tear down walls that obstruct good work, while building relationships that support our work.

Results

Because work culture is experienced, it is personal. It includes the whole person. The objective programs, protections, and regulations of work are important. However, the subjective, less-structured elements of being human are equally important. Neuroscience has revealed that we are feeling machines that happen to think, that we are motivated by internal values and emotional commitments based on our values. This is the strength of being human at work. However, the systems originally created to help protect us at work can create walls and obstacles. Some mindsets prevent us from examining our own systems, mindsets such as maintaining a system without question, pleasing authority, or over-thinking an issue. The solution to tearing down these walls lies within each of us as human beings — our core values, motivations, and commitments.

Conclusions

A healthy work culture celebrates people as whole human beings. We all share a balance of objective and subjective qualities, of human strengths and weaknesses. Our core values provide the tools to balance our work culture.