bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SS40-01 NECESSITIES OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING IN INDIAN INFORMAL SECTORS
Authors: Gangopadhyay Somnath
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Workers in the Indian informal sector are involved with different occupations. They are facing with various work-related hazards. Ultimately, they develop several health and safety related issues. For the betterment of health and safety at work, the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code was passed by the Parliament in September 2020. The part of the money collected through fines imposed under the Code is allocated to a social security fund. However, the social security arrangements for the vulnerable poor in general, and informal workers in particular, have been very minimal. Moreover, these welfare schemes have a minimum effect on the prevention of health and safety hazards.

Materials and Methods

All the information has been collected from government records, newspapers and websites.

Results

Approximately 90% of Indian workers are engaged in the informal sectors. The Indian government has taken some initiatives to improve the socio-physiological needs of the informal sector workers by introducing different welfare schemes. Most of the cases in informal sectors, health and safety related issues are developed due to poor awareness of the occurrence of provable risks of work. This is highly related to the lack of training and education in informal sectors on the identification and rectification of health and safety related hazards.

Conclusions

Short-duration training, education and awareness programs may develop the skills among the informal workers to identify health and safety hazards, and to respond to emergencies. Interactive animations and short videos on basic safety and health issues may be helpful to improve safety and health awareness.
SS40-08 DEVELOPMENT OF THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM FOR BASIC OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES DELIVERY FOR INFORMAL WORKERS IN THAILAND
Authors: Untimanon Orrapan , Siriruttanapruk Somkiat , Uthaithong Khwannapa
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The evaluation of Basic Occupational Health Services (BOHS) in Thailand was quite satisfactory however, there were some limitations especially the lack of financial support for such services. This study aims to develop the financial system of BOHS provided to informal workers (IFW).

Materials and Methods

The descriptive study was conducted during 2022-2023. The cost of BOHS and the Occupational Diseases and Environmental Diseases Control Act A.D. 2019 (OD Act) were reviewed. One-day meetings were held twice to discuss the existing financial system. Finally, the policy brief related to the financial system was submitted to the National Health Security Office which develops the healthcare system under the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme.

Results

The surveillance of occupational diseases (OD) among IFW who shall be entitled to obtain health examination was stated in the section 27 under the OD Act. Costs of BOHS activities including walkthrough survey, risk assessment, health surveillance, OD diagnosis and risk management have been explored. Two options of the costs were proposed as follow: Option 1: specification for all IFW = 70 Baht or 2 USD/capita, and Option 2: specification for only high risk IFW who are exposed to lead (350 Baht or 10 USD/capita), silica dust (600 Baht or 17 USD/capita), asbestos (600 Baht or 17 USD/capita), and pesticides (30 Baht or 1 USD/capita).

Conclusions

The financial support is an essential mechanism to enforce such a law. Specification of the BOHS cost for all IFW (Option 1) in the UHC system is highly recommended to increase the coverage of such services.
SS50-03 PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND HEALTH: CAN PROFESSIONAL BUS DRIVERS ACHIEVE SYMBIOSIS? (THE EU INTERCAMBIO PROJECT)
Authors: Guseva-Canu Irina
Published: July 2024

Introduction

There is an interdependence between air quality and professional bus drivers’ (PBDs) health. The transport sector contributes to a large part of gaseous and particulate air pollutant emissions, whereas the availability of functional and sustainable public transport decreases these emissions. The latter is however dependant on the availability of healthy PBDs. The current PBD shortage causes bus line cancelling in many cities and countries.

Materials and Methods

We reviewed the available literature on PBDs, mapped and categorized their occupational exposures and related health effects. We also reviewed interventional studies in PBDs.

Results

PBDs have been traditionally facing many occupational hazards including exposure to physical, chemical, and biological agents. Exposure to psychosocial and organisational factors is more recent, with the increase of private cars and other road users, time pressure, irregular hours and shift work, lack of resources and amenities, and aggressive behaviour of clients and other road users. These exposures are associated with both somatic diseases and mental health problems. With climate change and extreme weather conditions PBDs encounter new challenges and technological solutions. Eco-driving assistance (EDA) in their vehicles is one of them. Although EDA could help reduce fuel consumption and air pollution, its effect on PBDs’ wellbeing and work conditions has not been assessed. Most interventional studies have focused on drivers’ performance only.

Conclusions

Interventional studies focused on PBD health and wellbeing, such as in the EU INTERCAMBIO project, are necessary to prevent the workforce shortage, improve the attractiveness of the profession, and the long-term sustainability of public transport systems.
SS50-04 INTERVENTIONS TO REDUCE SKIN SENSITISATION TO EPOXY RESINS AND DERMATITIS IN THE WINDMILL BLADE MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY: THE EU INTERCAMBIO PROJECT
Authors: Stokholm Zara
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources demands an increased deployment of wind-power generation capacity across the globe. The manufacture of windmill blades, however, remains a labour-intensive process where there is substantial risk of human exposure to epoxy-resins, skin sensitisation and contact dermatitis. Therefore, we aim to develop holistic, sustainable interventions that mitigate these risks.

Materials and Methods

First, we will work with stakeholders from the industry in Denmark, Spain and Portugal to identify potential risk factors for and routes of skin contamination. Secondly, we will devise solutions that address proposed causal factors and enhance compliance with preventive measures, e.g. using the natural photo fluorescence of epoxy compounds to render contamination visible. Thirdly, we will work with industry partners to implement said interventions and assess their effectiveness by means of experimental trials. Finally, we will work with aforementioned industry partners to develop a strategy for industry-wide implementation of novel preventive measures.

Results

We will present results from ongoing studies and discuss how the EU INTERCAMBIO project will add to the existing knowledge on the occupational health of workers in the windmill blade manufacturing industry.

Conclusions

Results will provide both epidemiological and mechanistic understanding of the prevalence and incidence of epoxy skin-sensitisation in the industry. Proposed intervention trials will provide experimental evidence for the effectiveness of co-created preventive measures. Overall, EU INTERCAMBIO has the potential to improve the health and well-being of workers in an industry that is critical to the success of the European Green Deal.
SS51-03 FROM RESEARCH TO PUBLIC POLICY: HOW THE HEAT-SHIELD PROJECT HAS INFLUENCED POLICY IN THE EUROPEAN UNION (EU)
Authors: Flouris Andreas , Ioannou Leonidas G , Nybo Lars
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Heat-Shield was funded by the European Commission to mitigate the health and productivity effects of occupational heat stress on European workers.

Materials and Methods

The project involved 20 partners from 11 European countries working together during 2016-2022. Most of these partners still work together to address occupational heat stress in Europe and beyond.

Results

Heat-Shield research resulted in >75 publications in high-impact journals (Lancet, BMJ, Nature Communications, etc.) that have been cited >2500 times to date. We showed that >100,000 full-time jobs in Europe will be lost by 2030 due to heat-induced health problems and productivity losses. We also showed that the annual cost of occupational heat stress for the EU surpasses €160 billion. Also, we developed and evaluated a series of biophysical solutions and mitigation strategies to address the problem, and we included these in a pan-European heat-health warning system. To disseminate our findings, we co-organized/supported many actions with widespread impact by policy makers and large workers’ unions. Currently, our results serve as the basis for discussions worldwide addressing climate change and occupational health and safety. Our outputs have been adopted by Labour Ministries in their guidance documents and Directives, and have been included in guidance material from international organizations, including the WHO, WHO-Europe, ILO, WMO, and UNFCCC.

Conclusions

As of September 2023, few EU countries have adopted dedicated policies to protect workers from heat stress. However, there is increasing momentum to adopt relevant EU-wide policies and Heat-Shield has played a key role in this.
SS63-01 THE DEVELOPMENT OF HIGH, UPDATED AND HARMONIZED STANDARD OF SPECIALISTS MEDICAL PRACTICE IN EUROPE: THE EUROPEAN UNION OF MEDICAL SPECIALTIES (UEMS)
Authors: Papalois Vassilios , Grenho João
Published: July 2024

The UEMS represents medical specialists in Europe since 1958. We gather specialist doctors who share values of unity, equality, and comradeship and who work together volunteering to promote the highest quality of specialist medical practice.

Precisely, the UEMS has been supporting practitioners in occupational medicine for more than 25 years by developing and nurturing excellence in this specialty through a dedicated Specialist Section. The UEMS Section of Occupational Medicine participates in all UEMS flagship projects to foster the highest level of competence of practitioners in the field. Indeed, through the development of European Training Standards – standards in medical training that reflect modern medical practice and current scientific findings - we participate in the harmonisation of top-level postgraduate training of occupational physicians in Europe and beyond. With the same goal in mind, we organise every year a European examination which is recognised by professionals as a challenging opportunity to test and validate their expertise and experience.

Last but not least, the UEMS-European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education contributes in proficiency of postgraduate education of occupational physicians through accreditation with upper level criteria of educational events in the specialty.

Overall, improving healthcare for all also means people in their working environment and that's why, at the UEMS, we are, and we will continue, promoting the best possible practice of occupational medicine in Europe and beyond.
O-031 FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SICK LEAVE IN WORKERS WITH LONG COVID
Authors: Gouraud Clément , Pitron Victor , Ouazana-Vedrines Charles , Thoreux Patricia , Léger Damien , Lemogne Cédric , Ranque Brigitte
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to analyze factors associated with sick leave in workers affected with persistent symptoms following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods

Workers attended a multidisciplinary day-hospital program with a comprehensive assessment for persistent symptoms after COVID-19 that included medical evaluation and standardized questionnaires exploring fatigue (Pichot scale), physical activity (Ricci & Gagnon scale), health-related quality of life (Short-Form Health Survey SF-36), and associated psychological burden (Somatic-Symptom Disorder B criteria Scale). Regression models explored factors associated with sick leave (logistic regression) and sick leave duration (linear regression).

Results

Among 216 workers (median age: 45 years; 69.0 % women), 150 (69.4%) had had a sick leave because of COVID-19. Mean sick leave duration was 5 months (Inter-quartile range (IQR) 2-9). At the time of assessment, most frequent symptoms were fatigue (87.3%), breathlessness (62.0%), cognitive dysfunction (60.1%) and joint/muscular pain (58.8%), with a median duration of 418 days (IQR: 210-618). Factors associated with sick leave were a diagnosis of depressive disorder (OR=2.18; IC95% 1.03-4.60) and lower SF-36 physical component score (OR=0.97; IC95% 0.94-0.99). Factors associated with increased sick leave duration were breathlessness (beta=2.78; IC95% 0.56-5.00), lower SF-36 physical component score (beta=-0.17; IC95% -0.30; -0.05) and older age (beta=0.12; IC95% 0.01-0.23).

Discussion

Physical and psychological factors participate in impairing the return-to-work of workers with long COVID.

Conclusion

Integrative biopsychosocial care is needed for workers with long COVID.
P-060 IMPROVING THE OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MEDICINE PHYSICIAN TRAINING PIPELINE
Authors: Blumberg Max , Harrison Robert
Published: July 2024

Introduction

There is a shortage of board-certified occupational and environmental medicine (OEM) physicians in the United States (US), and worldwide. In the US there is a recent decline in applicants to OEM training programs. This study aims to understand the training pipeline and develop recommendations to increase recruitment of qualified candidates to become excellent OEM physicians. This study has the support of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine President’s Taskforce.

Methods

Electronic surveys are distributed to the ~100 current US OEM residents and ~250 alumni who have graduated from OEM training programs in the last five years. The survey covers path to OEM, experience applying to programs, planned/current type of job, and views on various ways to expand the pipeline. The survey is anonymous and distributed via email to OEM training program directors, who distribute it to their current residents & alumni. Data collection and analysis use Qualtrics and STATA respectively.

Results

Data collection is still ongoing but will complete by the end of summer 2023. Analysis will be complete before ICOH in Morocco.

Discussion

There are extremely limited studies of current OEM residents in the US, with only one prior study surveying a single training program’s residents and alumni (University of Pennsylvania). This is the most comprehensive survey of current trainees and recent alumni to date.

Conclusion

This study will help better understand the pipeline and develop recommendations for expanding recruitment to increase the number of qualified candidates entering the field of OEM.
P-097 OSH RESEARCH NETWORKS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION: A STUDY TO ASSESS THEIR EFFECTIVENESS AND CONSISTENCY WITH THE CHANGING WORLD OF WORK
Authors: Russo Simone , Fortuna Grazia , Mirabile Marco , Vasselli Donatella , Valenti Antonio , Boccuni Valeria , Cannone Erika , Gagliardi Diana
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The evolution of knowledge and the development of innovative technological solutions for managing traditional and emerging risks and protecting workers’ health has been promoted also through the efforts of European institutions in leveraging opportunities provided by European-level partnerships and by research framework programs funded by the European Commission and other European Agencies. However, the impact of network-based collaboration on European OSH research has never been specifically evaluated. This study aims to offer insights into the relevance of networking system’s contribution, as well as the barriers and opportunities to maximize its value in terms of accessing and developing knowledge and transferring research results.

Methods

to define models able to strengthen OSH research, we used the network analysis technique and systematically examined the collaborative network compositions, dynamics, as well as the capacity to address research question through knowledge acquisition, development and transfer. We searched the CORDIS database for the years 2000-2020 using keyword-based search strings.

Results

206 OSH research projects conducted by European research networks were mapped. The qualitative, quantitative and descriptive analyses of these projects highlighted characteristic trends for research topics and risk factors, funding amounts and network compositions over time. Discussion and

Discussion and conclusion

This study aims to enable the evaluation and enhancement of the impact of European research networks for the improvement of workers’ health and safety; it also allows comparing the results of research, development, and innovation activities against the social and technological changes in the world of work.
O-073 DIFFERENCES IN PSYCHOSOCIAL RISK EXPOSURE ACROSS INTERNATIONAL STANDARD CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPATIONS GROUPS
Authors: Pauli Roman , Lang Jessica
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Psychosocial stressors at work are differentially associated with strain outcomes, depending on occupational sector, level of education, hierarchical level, and occupational status. The aim of this study is to derive risk profiles for employees’ exposure to psychosocial job stressors in different occupations across International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO)-groups. Knowledge of these exposure profiles is an important prerequisite for deriving occupational safety and health measures tailored to the specific requirements of different occupational groups.

Methods

We assessed psychosocial job stressors across eight job characteristics using data of n = 10162 employees from 48 companies in Germany. We used linear mixed effects modeling to determine the amount of variance in employees’ exposure to job stressors attributable to occupation and visualize psychosocial risk profiles across ISCO groups. For a subsample, we also model stressor-strain relationships across ISCO major groups.

Results

Interclass correlation coefficients (ICC1) indicate up to 31% of the variance in exposure to job stressors is attributable to clustering. ISCO major groups yield different patterns of exposure to job stressors and varying slopes for the association of job stress and employee wellbeing.

Discussion and conclusion

Our results add to prior research findings on varying stressor-strain association across occupations by shedding light on how different occupations are exposed to different psychosocial risks. These findings provide practical information for professionals in charge of deriving occupational health and safety measures tailored to the specific exposure profiles of occupational groups.
P-125 TELOMERE SHORTENING AND OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO BENZENE: A MULTICENTER STUDY
Authors: Carugno Michele , Ferrari Luca , Hoxha Mirjam , Boniardi Luca , Merlo Domenico Franco , Panev Teodor , Georgieva Tzveta , Campo Laura , Pesatori Angela Cecilia
Published: July 2024

Introduction

A recent study (doi:10.1016/j.envint.2021.106871) examined markers of biological aging among subjects occupationally exposed to benzene and found increased age acceleration and reduced telomere length (TL), especially in workers exposed to levels >10 ppm. We verified the same hypothesis on a larger study population characterized by a broader range of (lower) exposure levels.

Methods

We measured TL by real-time PCR in blood DNA from 373 individuals from occupational groups with heterogeneous benzene exposure and 102 referents from two Italian (Genoa, Milan) and one Bulgarian (Burgas) cities. Airborne benzene was measured using personal passive samplers. We used multivariate linear regression models to assess the association between benzene and TL and obtain adjusted TL geometric means (GM) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI).

Results

Study participants were mostly males (86%) with a mean age of 38.8 years. Benzene levels were 0.0009-0.02ppm in Genoa, 0.0006-0.15ppm in Milan, 0.01-20.8ppm in Burgas, where 48 subjects had levels >0.5ppm, and only four >10ppm. Adjusted TL GM was 0.84 (95%CI: 0.80; 0.88) in subjects with benzene levels ≤0.005ppm, 0.83 (0.79; 0.86) in exposure category 0.005-0.01ppm, 0.80 (0.76; 0.84) in exposure category 0.01-0.05ppm, and 0.76 (0.72; 0.80) in those with levels >0.05ppm (p-trend=0.007). For a tenfold increase in benzene concentration, we estimated a decrease in TL (percent change) of -4.3 (-6.9; -1.6, p=0.002).

Discussion

Our results, although preliminary, are coherent with the available body of evidence and suggest that benzene might accelerate biological aging even at low exposure levels.

Conclusion

We will implement our analysis estimating biological age also through epigenetic clocks.
P-136 THE VALUE OF TEACHING EPIDEMIOLOGY IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
Authors: Tahri Loubna , Wifaq Kamal , Soltani Sara , El Kholti Abdeljalil
Published: July 2024

Introduction

during the covid19 health crisis, we witnessed a growing public interest in epidemiological studies, as the general population was able to follow the trend and distribution of the disease worldwide. As a result, occupational physicians were widely called upon to conduct studies, collect data, analyze and transmit statistical data.

Methods

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the value of teaching epidemiology to occupational health physicians, so that they can master research methods, conduct company-wide epidemiological studies and disseminate data to enrich the database of occupational health and safety statistics.

Results and discussion

In Morocco, teaching of the epidemiology and statistics module applied to occupational health is an integral part of the training of occupational physicians, but the quantity of scientific production in the field of occupational health remains low. We recommend an introduction to research by proposing end-of-study dissertations based on field studies, as well as the establishment of cohorts of exposed workers in order to monitor the epidemiological profile, and the setting up of occupational cancer registers and employment-exposure matrices are excellent tools to be developed by occupational physicians.

Conclusion

epidemiology applied to occupational health is an excellent way of highlighting the causal link between exposure and the onset of occupational pathologies.
P-178 JOB DEMANDS, JOB RESOURCES, MEANINGFUL WORK AND WORK ENGAGEMENT OF NURSES
Authors: Patience Mercia , De Braine Roslyn , Dhanpat Nelesh
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Nursing is one of the most trusted professions in society and it is often referred to as the backbone of any healthcare system. However, nursing is also one of the most stressful occupations in the field of healthcare. Factors that influence the work environment include socio-political changes, technological advances and healthcare reforms, all of which affect the way nurses remain engaged in their work. Nurses are expected to deliver quality healthcare amidst a rapidly changing work environment and are therefore required to be resilient and agile.

Methods

Quantitative, survey study.

Results

This study investigated ‘job demands’ (emotional demands, role ambiguity and workplace violence) and ‘job resources’ (autonomy, career advancement opportunities, leader-member exchange and meaningful work) which may impact the work engagement levels of nurses in both public and private hospitals. The sample consisted of 420 nurses working in both public and private hospitals in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Discussion

The findings confirmed that the predictors for work engagement differed between the public and private sector nurses. Emotional demands was the only job demand that predicted work engagement for the public sector nurses. None of the job demands (emotional demands, role ambiguity and workplace violence) influenced the work engagement levels of the private sector nurses.

Conclusion

In the public sector, meaningful work and career advancement as job resources predicted work engagement, whereas in the private sector, meaningful work, career advancement and leader-member exchange predicted work engagement.
O-129 NON-INVASIVE BIOMARKERS FOR EARLY DETECTION AND PREVENTION OF WORK-RELATED SKIN DISEASES
Authors: Kezic Sanja , De Boer Florentine L , Van der Molen Henk F
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Skin diseases, such as contact dermatitis and skin cancer are common in the workplace and can significantly impact both work and personal life.

Methods and Results

Early detection of disease symptoms, accurate diagnostics, and identification of individual and environmental risk factors are critical for developing effective prevention strategies in the workplace and disease management. Non-invasive biomarkers may aid in objective assessment and detection of early changes in the skin as well as monitoring the effectiveness of interventions. One such approach involves the collection of the samples of the uppermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum (SC), through a simple and non-invasive procedure, known as tape stripping.

Discussion and Conclusion

Recent research has demonstrated that SC biomarkers can serve as a valuable tool in detecting changes in the skin barrier and immune response caused by exposure to skin irritants and UV-radiation. Moreover, these biomarkers have shown potential in distinguishing different types of hand eczema, addressing a major challenge faced in clinical settings. This presentation will provide an overview of the latest advancements in biomarker research related to occupational skin diseases, based on own research and literature review. Furthermore, potential and challenges of biomarkers in occupational settings will be discussed.
P-246 PROMOTE HEALTHY LIFESTYLES IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS WITH COMBINED AND MULTIDISCIPLINARY INTERVENTION: RESULTS AT 6 AND 12 MONTHS - STI-VI STUDY
Authors: Scapellato Maria Luisa , Comiati Vera , Buttignol Giulia , Valentini Romina , La Serra Lucia , Maccà Isabella , Mason Paola , Volpin Anna , Spinella Paolo
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Workplace health promotion programs can help prevent the onset of chronic and work-related diseases. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the short- and medium-term efficay of a combined intervention aimed to improve lifestyles in healthcare workers (HCWs) with at least one cardiovascular risk factor.

Methods

A tailored counseling intervention, focusing on dietary habits and physical activity (PA), was administered to 121 HCWs. BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood glucose levels were measured before and after the intervention [0 (T0), 6 (T1) and 12 months (T2)].

Results

The 12-month data, compared to T0, showed a marked effect on lifestyle: PA improved (+194 MET, p<0.05) and diets became more similar to the Mediterranean model (+0.8, p < 0.001). BMI and waist circumference (-0.2 kg/cm2 and -2.1 cm, p<0.05), LDL (-9.7 mg/dL, p<0.05) and HDL cholesterol (-2.7 mg/dL, p<0.05), blood glucose (-1.7 mg/dL, p<0.05), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (-4.8 mmHg and -1.3 mmHg, p<0.05) mantained the results at T1. Total cholesterol (-18.5 mg/dL, p<0.05) and triglycerides (-13.6 mg/dL) improved over T1. The analysis of food diaries showed a reduction of total kcal intake, an increase of total proteins (animal and vegetable proteins), and a decrease of the lipids.

Discussion

The maintenance of the positive results over time, confirms -according to the literature- that the application of combined and multi-professional interventions as the most effective approach.

Conclusion

Health promotion programs are important to maintain the work ability of HCWs.
P-259 THE PROFESSIONAL QUALITY OF LIFE OF HEALTH CARE WORKERS TWO YEARS INTO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Machghoul Samia , Merchaoui Irtyah , Hayouni Marouen , Hayouni Marouen , Chaari Neila , Amri Charfeddine , Akrout Mohamed , Hanchi Adnene , Rassas Ines
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Health care workers (HCW) may respond to individual, national, and even international crises. This might influence their professional quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the professional quality of life of HCW in a tertiary hospital in Monastir Tunisia and to assess its determinants.

Methods

a cross-sectional study conducted in December 2022 using an online survey. We used the professional quality of life scale, which evaluates compassion satisfaction (CS), secondary traumatic stress (STS) and Burnout (BO).

Results

230 HCW responded to the survey. Moderate to high levels of CS, BO and STS were noted in 94.11%, 80.71% and 62.38% of the participants respectively. The emergency department was the most concerned with BO (92.3%) and STS (85.7%). Determinants of BO were depression (OR= 3.09; CI95% [1.15-8.29]) and having any medical history (OR= 7.1; CI95% [1.5-33.8]) while high levels of CS were a protective factor (OR= 0.27; CI95% [0.12-0.58]). Presenting symptoms of anxiety multiplied the risk of STS three times (OR= 3.5; CI95% [1.8-6.5]).

Discussion

this study shows the poor professional quality of life of HCW. This might affect not only their wellbeing, but also their efficiency and patient’s security. These results prompted us to set up multidisciplinary working groups in order to determine risk factors of poor quality of life and design specific strategies to enhance HCW’s quality of life.

Conclusion

Occupational physicians should focus on establishing programs that foster skills like self-efficacy, coping strategies and resilience in HCW. Future studies to evaluate the effectiveness of our strategy are needed.
O-156 ASSESSMENT OF ESSENTIAL WORKERS HEALTH PROBLEMS IN SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES IN FOOD SECTOR WITH USING OMAHA SYSTEM BASED SOFTWARE PROGRAM
Authors: Adiguzel Yasemin , Aktas Emine
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of work-related diseases in Small-and Medium-Sized Enterprises(SME) is very high. The aim is to evaluate the utility of Omaha System(OS) in the determination of health problems and applying occupational health nurse interventions among employees in SME of food sector.

Methods

The study was carried out in descriptive and cross-sectional study design. Of 129 SME in varios food sector, 47 enterprises were determined by mapping method. The employees(n=35) who self-reported lower level of “General Health” subdimension in SF-36 Life Quality Scale, and assessed the workplace as middle-higher risky were included.The three components of OS, “Problem Classification Scheme(PCS)”, “Intervention Scheme” and “Problem Rating Scale(PRS)” were used for outcomes. The assessment was made by using Turkish-Nightingale Notes Software that based OS.

Results

The mean age was 42±13, and majority of the workers exposed physical and chemical risks. The health problems were Neighbourhood/Workplace Safety(100%),Mental Health(100%), Communicable/Infectious Condition(100%), Physical Activity(100%), Nutrition(88,57%), Sleep and Rest Patterns(51,42%), Circulation(45,71%) and Substance Use (45,71%).The 11447 intervention were applied in categories of Teaching, guidance and counseling, Case management, and Surveillance. After the intervention, the PRS outcomes were improved (p<0.05).

Discussion

The characteristics of the employees in various sectors and their health problems have been determined in without evidence-based approach, this study provides standart terminology and software based application of OS for health care professionals to determine health problems of SMEs in the food sector and evaluating the interventions and outcomes.

Conclusion

The OS can be effectively used as a standardized terminology in occupational research and practice to identify health problems of employees in SME.
P-291 OSH SUPPORT FOR SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES THROUGH INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS – HONG KONG EXPERIENCE
Authors: Yeung Winson , Tsui Ray , Lam Alice , Tsang Steve
Published: July 2024

Introduction

While most businesses are facing exceptional challenges during the pandemic, SMEs are particularly affected as they generally lack resources. To encourage SMEs to adopt safe practices despite their limited resources, OSHC has been providing SMEs with subsidy to acquire appropriate safety training and equipment through ongoing schemes. SMEs needs only to pay a small fraction of the PPE costs. These schemes not only allow SMEs to acquire OSH equipment at “affordable” prices for enhancing safety performance, but also facilitate market entry of innovative solutions for accident prevention. The SME schemes ensure a basic demand for new equipment to enter into market and in turn help bring down prices. Besides, by providing new solutions to the industries, we help them better adapt to new environment and face new challenges.

Methods

To provide adequate and timely OSH support to SMEs in different trades, we proactively identify their OSH needs through regular meetings with stakeholders and review causes of latest industrial accidents.

Results

For instances, in view of two serious accidents causing three deaths and six injuries involving work at confined spaces, we immediately reviewed our existing schemes that were relevant and launched an enhanced subsidy scheme and an accreditation scheme to rebuild safety capabilities within months from the accidents.

Discussion

A holistic approach was adopted that not only provided subsidies for purchasing advanced safety and rescue equipment, but also free safety training and consultancy services and audits on their safety management system.

Conclusion

These schemes serve as reminders and help OSHC to remain vigilant and versatile in supporting SMEs’ safe work.
P-295 THE OCCUPATIONAL MEDICAL SERVICE HAS A STRATEGIC ROLL TO PROMOTE HEALTH
Authors: Azevedo Valmir
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In a modern chemical industry where 700 employees work, data were collected from the Occupational Health Medical Control Programs applied in the last 10 years. These show that, in the biological monitoring of 8 chemical substances (e.g. acetone and phenol), as recommended by the ACGIH on TLVs and BEIs, toxicological tests had normal results. However, the annual exams of total cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose of most of these same employees showed altered results.

Methods

The study consisted of collecting and analyzing the results of 8 types of toxicological tests of 132 employees, each performed every six months, and of total cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose tests, carried out annually for the majority of these same employees, in the last 10 years.

Results

In this industry, 85% of operations by control rooms and other measures such as industrial hygiene assessments, implementation of collective and individual protection, contributed decisively to reducing the risk of intoxication by chemical substances. Therafter, the results of 2632 tests on 132 employees, collected over the last 10 years, were normal. On the other hand, the results of the annual tests of total cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose, of most of these same employees, showed respectively an average of 34.6%, 27.8% and 18.3% alterations that indicate Dyslipidemia and Glucose Intolerance or Diabetes Mellitus.

Discussion and Conclusion

As the changes do not occur in biological monitoring tests, but in total cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose tests, a Health Promotion Program has been implemented aiming, in the medium term, to improve these indicators, by at least 25%.
P-315 OCCUPATIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT OF LOWER BACK PAIN FOR INDUSTRY WORKERS
Authors: Shirokov Vasily , Saarkoppel Lyudmila , Varaksin Anatoly , Potaturko Aleksey , Terehov Nikita , Novikova Anna
Published: July 2024

Introduction

To estimate the influence of occupational factors on prevalence and risks of development of lower back pain (LBP).

Methods

Occupational risk related to LBP has been analyzed based on the results of medical examinations of 3215 industry workers and odds ratio (OR) for LBP has been calculated.

Results

Male workers in the age of 30 to 50 with a length of service of 10-15 years have greater risk of developing LBP. Other important factors contributing to the development of lower back pain disorders are weight lifted, body tilt (OR =1,89 (95% CI 1,39-2,56), whole-body vibration (OR =2,9 (95% CI 2,3-3,8). Although the most damaging impact is made by continuous workload during workshift, lifting and carrying heavy loads by hand (OR =2,2 (95% CI 1,8-2,7), continuous sitting or standing in the same working posture are also considered to be risk factors for LBP (OR= 1,42 (95% CI 1,20- 1,67).

Discussion

We have determined that the sitting posture per se does not affect the prevalence of LBP whereas a combination of continuous sitting posture of more than 180 minutes per day, awkward working posture and exposure to whole-body vibration increase the risk of back pain considerably.

Conclusion

Furthermore, an IPAQ-based study of physical activity at leisure and work shows that the prevalence of LBP is affected by both - by insufficient or vigorous physical activity at work, as well as physical inactivity at leisure, which increases the risk of LBP (OR= 1.5 (95% CI 1.1-2.1).
O-201 DEFICIENT OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES IN SRI LANKA: CAPACITY BUILDING TO CLOSE THE GAP
Authors: Wickramatillake Aseni , Seneviratne Mahinda
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Despite no reform of workplace health & safety legislation since the colonial-era 1942, Sri Lanka has gradually progressed on workplace safety due to adherence of international standards by large-scale local and multinational workplaces. Safety practises are however widely deficient in small and medium-scale enterprises, as well as in the informal sector. Practise of occupational health and hygiene is elementary, and the concepts are not well understood by many organisations, including some multinational organisations, who employ Occupational (and environmental) safety and health officers.

Methods

To recognise the challenges faced in practising occupational health and hygiene, formal interviews and group discussions were held in Sri Lanka with senior management, human resources personnel, EHS personnel, the medical fraternity, and the local ILO office.

Results

Outdated & ineffective regulations as well as the lack of awareness of occupational health among key stakeholders, including the government authority, EHS professionals, organisational management, healthcare professionals, and employees were prominent barriers. A program of actions including international collaboration was proposed by stakeholders to improve occupational health and hygiene.

Discussion and Conclusion

A collaborative effort between the Sri Lankan government and workplaces, with support from international agencies and international professional bodies is needed to improve occupational health within the country. As an initial step, occupational medicine expertise was harnessed to raise awareness of OH among professionals, and capabilities of the labour inspectorate on basic occupational hygiene & ergonomics is being built. These international collaborations can close the gap in a failing healthcare system to improve worker health in Sri Lanka during an economically challenged period.
O-205 THE EXPANDING ROLE AND OPPORTUNITIES OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH TO INCLUDE ENVIRONMENTAL AND COMMUNITY HEALTH IN THE PHILIPPINES: FIRST PHILIPPINE HOLDINGS CORPORATION
Authors: Gapas Joselito
Published: July 2024

Introduction

First Philippine Holdings Corporation (FPHC) is engaged in energy, real estate, construction, manufacturing, health and education. In 1978, Presidential Decree 1586 (Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System) required all environmentally critical projects to assess and monitor impacts to worker and host (impact) communities. An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) defining risk and mitigation measures is submitted. Upon approval, an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) is issued specifying immediate and long term requirements including reporting on health impacts to workers and host communities.

Methods

Since 2013, environmental health is part of the FPH Health Management System Standards (HMSS). The HMSS defines mandatory requirements of FPH from all its subsidiaries and affiliates. It requires subsidiaries are to “address all potential and existing environmental health risks arising from company activities, to host communities during the business life cycle (construction, operations and decommissioning)”. Needed health support include a) scope definition of the environmental and health impact assessments, b) terms of reference for 3rd party consultants, c) consultant selection, d) report review, and e) implementation of recommendations. An environmental health competency strategy across FPHC is on-going to ensure that occupational health teams can provide technical support

Result

Environmental health is included in the mandatory FPH Health Management System Standards. Presently, support is provided at the corporate level where technical expertise resides. Competency assessment and development is on-going.

Discussion and Conclusion

Occupational health has expanded beyond the workplace to include community and environmental health. Health organizations in developing countries with limited government technical capacity are required to respond internally to the needs of the organization.
P-391 EVALUATION OF THE VIBRATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS OF THE HAND-ARM SYSTEM IN A WORKER ASSEMBLING METAL STRUCTURES
Authors: El Khaldi Mohamed , Laraqui Omar , Manar Nadia , Deschamps Frédéric , Laraqui Hossini Chakib El Houssine
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Musculoskeletal disorders are widely found among workers exposed to vibrations. The objective of our study is to identify and measure the vibrations of the hand-arm system encountered during the assembly of metal structures among a worker in an industrial company in Morocco as well as to evaluate their possible harmful effects on health.

Method

This metrological study was measuring the vibrations of the hand-arm system in a male worker who manipulates a drill and a bolter for the assembly of metal structures serving as support for the storage of pallets within an industrial company in Morocco. The study was using a hand-arm system sensor connected to an analyzer respectively when handling the two machines.

Results

When handling the wrench, the weighted equivalent acceleration Ahv was of the order of 3.39 m/s² while the daily exposure level Ahv(8) was 0.91 m/s². When handling the perforator, the weighted equivalent acceleration Ahv was of the order of 9.35 m/s² while the daily exposure level Ahv (8) was 3.81 m/s². The daily exposure level relative to the sum of the two Ahvt devices was 3.91 m/s².

Discussion and conclusion

The exposure level observed with the perforator exceeds the permitted values requiring a reduction in handling time. Corrective technical and organizational measures must be immediately put in place to prevent the occurrence of harmful effects of vibrations on health. The role of the occupational physician and the multidisciplinary team is of great importance in carrying out preventive actions.
O-273 EXPERIENCES AND EVALUATION OF THE SECONDARY PREVENTION PROGRAM FOR BURNOUT IN BELGIUM
Authors: Braeckman Lutgart , Dendoncker Caroline , Kerckhofs Karolien , Lebrun Florence , Le Roux Ingrid , Hansez Isabelle
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The Belgian Federal Agency for Occupational Risks (Fedris) launched a pilot project for the secondary prevention of burnout in the healthcare and banking sector. During a 9-month period, participants received individual and organizational interventions, reimbursed by Fedris. This study explores their experiences and evaluates the prevention program.

Methods

A prospective, longitudinal study was conducted between 2019 and 2022. After approval from University of Liège ethical committee, data was collected at the start, at the end and 4 months after the program. Written reports and questionnaires including Oldenburg Inventory (OLBI) and Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT) were used to obtain information on burnout symptoms, job risk factors, work adaptations, absenteeism, and return to work (RTW).

Results

A total of 223 workers (80% females, mean age 44,5) with a clinical confirmed diagnosis of burnout took part in the three measurements. After the program participants experienced less burnout complaints, as demonstrated by significantly lower scores on the OLBI and BAT. Most frequent job stressors originated from work content and work organization. At start circa 45% of the participants were still at work, 52% were on sick leave. Adaptations such as reduction in working hours and fewer tasks were realized by half of the participants, allowing a RTW in 37% of them.

Discussion

Future preventive strategies should primarily focus on work organization and content. Individual sessions resulted in decreased burnout and work adaptations in high RTW.

Conclusion

The prevention program is perceived as positive and effective. The pilot project will be expanded.
P-428 WORLD HAPPINESS AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH WORK
Authors: Caraballo-Arias Yohama
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Humans spend a third of their lives working, which can either fulfil their desire for happiness or self-realization or cause suffering and even death. Genetics, environment, and voluntary choices (such us marriage or type of job) influence the level of happiness, which is not perceived equally across cultures.

Results

Happiness is gaining popularity in science. A search on PubMed on August 18th, 2023, shows over 12,699 hits and 117systematic reviews on the topic. The world happiness report, a global initiative of the United Nations, collect from people in over 150 countries and explores with a questionnaire collective happiness using 6 criteria, including the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) which is directly associated with work and productive activities. Unemployment and inequities are not included in the questionnaire It is well known that most of very low, low, and middle-income countries have very low salaries to their workforce, including the highly qualify professionals, impacting their overall quality of life.

Discussion- Conclusion

socio-economic and even political situation, Real GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, gender inequities and the perception of corruption seems to have a big impact on collective happiness. Finland is an example of a country that has been the happiest country for 6 years on a row so their example should inspire nations to replicate their success. OSH professionals have the duty to not only prevent occupational injuries and diseases but to promote at a higher level of the society’s happiness and wellbeing at work.