bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-503 HEALTH EFFECTS OF DUST IN RURAL COTTAGE INDUSTRIES IN INDIA
Authors: Chandrasekar Sashikala , Ravindran Sudha Rani 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Dust and aerosol exposure affect the health of rural cottage industries workers and the residents near these units. Sericulture and incense sticks (agarbathi) units employ mostly women workers. The objective of this study was to detect prevalence of allergic bronchitis and asthma among workers in these industries and the nearby residents.

Methods
50 sericulture and 50 agarbathi workers working for more than 5 years, and 50 nearby residents, all females aged 30 to 45 years were enrolled for this study with their consent. After general clinical examination and medical history, these participants underwent pulmonary function tests.

Results
Findings in each group of 50 persons showed: Asthma in 4 and allergic bronchitis in 11 sericulture workers. Asthma in 3 and allergic bronchitis in 14 agarbathi workers. Asthma in 1 and allergic bronchitis in 9 nearby residents.

Discussion
Dust and aerosols remain in the workplace and surrounding environment, affecting the workers and nearby residents. Workers are exposed to aerosols when silkworm cocoons are placed in hot water for reeling silk yarn. Workers in cocoon storage places and trading centers are exposed to epithelial dust from silkworm moths and cocoons. Previous studies had shown sericulture workers develop sensitization to silkworm allergens. In manually rolled agarbathi units, workers are exposed to chemicals and dusting powder while mixing ingredients, rolling, and dusting the agarbathis.

Conclusion
Asthma and allergic bronchitis are prevalent in these workers and nearby residents. Mechanization and barriers for dust is not possible in small units. Use of masks is recommended. These industries should be outside residential areas.
O-340 CHANGES IN ATTITUDES TOWARD INFECTION CONTROL MEASURES IN THE WORKPLACE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC – LONGITUDINAL DATA FROM EMPLOYEES IN GERMANY
Authors: Soeder Jana , Wagner Anke , Neunhöffer Anna T , Martus Peter , Wittich Andrea , Schwille-Kiuntke Juliane , Rieger Monika A , Rind Esther 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Highly regulated working conditions in Germany ensure workers’ occupational safety and health (OSH). Safety culture is associated with safety behavior. Attitudes are associated with health-related behavior intentions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, OSH-measures for SARS-CoV-2-infection control relied on proactive safety behaviors of managers and employees. We explore how employees’ self-reported attitudes toward work-related SARS-CoV-2-infection control measures changed longitudinally.

Methods
We distributed our online survey (ethical approval no.423/2020BO) in autumn 2020 (T0), January 2021 (T1), and autumn 2021 (T2). N=1115 (37% women; age=45.2±11 (mean±SD)) employees of a global supplier of technology and services in Germany participated at least twice and differed not significantly by attitude and socio-demographics regarding the number of participations. 16 items constitute the attitude score toward organizational SARS-CoV-2-infection control measures (5-point Likert-scale: ‘not’-‘very suitable’; Cronbach’s α(T0)=0.86; high value=positive attitude).

Preliminary results
Average attitude scores toward organizational OSH-measures did not change with practical importance between T0 (4.1±0.6), T1 (4.2±0.6; Mann-Whitney-U-test: z=2.56, p=0.01, effect size r=0.06) and T2 (4.0±0.6; z=7.08, p&lt;0.001, r=0.17 (small)). We further explore participants at and above the 80th-percentile as well as at and below the 20th-percentile of change from T0 to T1 (each n=143) and T1 to T2 (each n=134).

Discussion
Using multivariate analyses, we explore factors associated with long-term positive or improving or worsening attitudes toward organizational OSH-measures. Well-developed safety cultures and good framework conditions can help maintain positive attitudes toward OSH-measures or relevantly improve critical attitudes.

Conclusion
Our longitudinal findings highlight the importance of analyzing OSH-framework conditions and safety culture in promoting long-term positive attitudes toward health-protective measures.
P-515 RISK MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY CLIMATE IN HIGH SCHOOL LABORATORIES
Authors: Alvarez-Chavez Clara R , Germán-López Andrea G , Muñoz-Osuna Francisca O , Marín-Ramírez Luz S , Flores-Soto Alma A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Safety-related accidents in academic laboratories show the need to improve policies, procedures, and practices. School administrators have the responsibility to provide safety conditions to both students and teachers while teachers should educate by example. This study aimed to evaluate risk management and safety climate among laboratory teachers at Sonora High schools (Mexico).

Methods
A 38-item RAMP-T survey adapted from de RAMP methodology (Recognition, Assessment, Minimization and Prepare for Emergencies) and a 20-item CLASS-T (Chemistry Laboratory Safety Survey) were sent to 347 teachers of 107 high schools in Sonora. Protocol and materials were approved by the UNISON Ethics Committee (CEI-UNISON-08/2021). The scale reliability varied from 0.87-0.98 for RAMP-T and from 0.66-0.94 for CLASS-T.

Results
A total of 148 teachers responded to the surveys. RAMP-T scores were above average for all four dimensions. CLASS-T revealed that the safety climate in schools was positive, as is their commitment, leadership, recognition, and practice towards safety. The association between risk management and the safety climate in the laboratory was positive and moderate (r=0.432).

Discussion
Teachers reported managing risks, but it is necessary to reinforce this practice, mainly risk assessment and emergency preparedness. The laboratory safety climate in high schools was positive but still showed opportunities for improvement. The association between safety climate in the laboratory and risk management indicated that a better safety climate in the institution could reinforce risk management, according to the perspective of high school teachers in Sonora.

Conclusions
Active support for laboratory safety by high school administrators could motivate teachers to develop safer laboratory practices.
O-347 LONG WORKING HOURS AND NIGHT WORK BOTH INCREASE THE RISK OF DIABETES IN US WORKERS
Authors: Chen Liwei , Li Jian 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Long working hours (LWH) is a major concern for workers’ health. Although previous studies have linked LWH with a higher risk of diabetes, it is unclear whether the relationship between LWH and diabetes is affected by other working conditions. Thus, we aimed to investigate the interplays between LWH and high night work (HNW) with diabetes risk.

Methods
We included 1,454 workers who were free from diabetes at baseline, using prospective cohort data from the Mid-Life in the United States (MIDUS) study, with 9 years of follow-up. We examined the independent and joint associations of LWH (&lt;54 vs. ≥55 hours/week) and HNW (&lt;15 vs. ≥15 days/year) with diabetes risk, by modified Poisson regressions with adjustment for potential confounders.

Results
During the follow-up period, 103 subjects were identified as incident cases of diabetes, with a cumulative incidence rate of 7.08%. LWH and LNW each was associated with a 60% (adjusted RR=1.60; 95% CI: 1.04, 2.46) and 66% (1.66; 1.05, 2.62) increased risk of diabetes, respectively. Workers with both LWH and HNW exposures had 3 times elevated diabetes risk compared to those with shorter working hours and low night work (3.02; 1.64, 5.58).

Discussion
In a prospective cohort of U.S. workers, we observed independent and additive associations of LWH and HNW with diabetes risk, indicating a new concern in workers’ health.

Conclusion
Our findings suggest that both long working hours and night work could increase the risk of diabetes jointly. Future studies are warranted to confirm our findings and developed strategies to mitigate such risks among workers.
O-350 THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN IRREGULAR WORKING HOURS AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES IN AN MULTI-ETHNIC POPULATION: THE HELIUS STUDY
Authors: Wijntjens Gilbert W M , Motazedi Ehsan , Franklin Sophia W , Maas Jaap J , van der Ploeg Henrike Galenkamp - , Van den Born Bert-Jan H , Schaafsma Frederieke G 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Shift-work is a riskfactor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). We studied the association between irregular working hours and CVD in a multi-ethnic population in the Netherlands, and compared this association between various ethnicities.

Methods
Logistic regression was used to study the cross-sectional association between (a history of) irregular working hours and prevalent CVD (self-reported myocardial infarction, dotter/bypass operation or stroke) in 18.746 participants (18–71 years) of Dutch, South-Asian Surinamese, African Surinamese, Ghanaian, Turkish, or Moroccan origin from the Healthy Life in an Urban Setting (HELIUS)-Study. We adjusted for sex, age, occupational level, smoking, alcohol use, physical inactivity, obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia. To study ethnic differences, we tested for interaction between irregular working hours and ethnicity with Dutch as the reference-population, and stratified the analysis by ethnicity.

Results
The prevalence CVD was 17.8% (740 out of 4.159) and 13.9% (2.026 out of 14.587) in the population with and without irregular working hours, respectively. Working irregular hours was associated with CVD (adjusted odds-ratio(OR) 1.18, (95%-confidence interval(CI): 1.07-1.30). Stratified by ethnicity, strongest associations with CVD were found for South-Asian Surinamese (OR 1.39, 95%-CI: 1.11-1.74) and Moroccans (OR 1.38, 95%-CI: 1.07, 1.79). The OR for CVD between individuals with versus without irregular working hours among the South-Asian Surinamese was significantly different from the Dutch (p=0.04).

Discussion and conclusion
The present study demonstrates that working irregular hours is an independent risk factor for CVD in a multi-ethnic population. In particular, individuals from South-Asian Surinamese and Moroccans origin working irregular hours are at increased risk to have developed CVD.
P-520 SALIVARY BIOMARKERS ANALYSIS AND NEUROBEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT IN NURSES WORKING ROTATION SHIFTS
Authors: Fenga Concettina , Giambò Federica , Vivarelli Silvia , Teodoro Michele , Costa Chiara 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In Europe, one in five workers is employed in night shift work which is essential in several activities, especially the healthcare sector. Night working may be associated with occurrence of sleep disorders or work-related stress, both potentially augmenting the risk of errors and accidents at work. This study examines the presence of neurobehavioral alterations as potential consequence of shift working and concurrent misalignment of the sleep times and circadian rhythms.

Methods
Nurses (n = 102) employed at a University Hospital located in North-Eastern Sicily, Italy, voluntarily participated in this study. During medical surveillance, morning and evening salivary samples were collected, and seven psychodiagnostics questionnaires were administered to all the subjects. Salivary levels of stress-related biomarkers (cortisol and alpha-amylase) and a circadian biomarker (melatonin) were evaluated. Also, several neurobehavioral features were assessed, including depression, anxiety, work-related, and sleep issues.

Results
All examined stress indexes highlighted that a small percentage of the nurses experienced work-related stress. However, a higher percentage of females than males reported mild depressive and anxious symptoms. Also, 76% of nurses consider their sleep quality to be good. Finally, a positive relationship between salivary morning cortisol and depression scale, as well as a negative relationship between salivary morning alpha-amylase and work ability scale, were observed.

Discussion
Based on these results, the integration of subjective questionnaire outcomes and objective salivary biomarker quantification can help to identify workers with increased susceptibility to developing neurobehavioral alterations.

Conclusion
This approach may contribute to ameliorating preventive strategies towards sensitive categories, such as nurses working rotating shifts.
P-529 STUDY OF THE HEALTH PROFILE OF SHIFT WORKERS IN THE PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT OF A FERTILISER INDUSTRY IN INDIA
Authors: Pingle Shyam , Patel Alpesh , Sinha Anish 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The study investigated whether the general and rotating shift workers of the production department of a Fertiliser industry are associated with shift-related health problems/symptoms.

Methodology
This is a Descriptive Cross-sectional study conducted in a Fertiliser industry in Gujarat, India. The study was conducted using a questionnaire, interview and last annual medical check up reports, capturing information about socio-demographic, physical, social, and psychological health problems. A total of 115 out of 128 employees working in the Production department of the industry responded, 39 general shift employees and 76 rotating shift employees.

Results
The results of this study indicated that rotating shift working may be associated with Gastrointestinal diseases (55%), Sleep-related problems (55%), Psychological problems (70%), Lifestyle diseases (32%), and General health symptoms (30%) This study also showed that shift working could be a risk factor for health-related problems as compared to general shift workers. Prevalence of sleep disorders was reported to be much higher (64%) in shift employees than in general shift employees (36%). Prevalence of cases of other diseases including hypertension was also higher in rotating shift employees compared to general shift employees.

Discussion and Conclusion
It appears that rotating shifts are a risk factor for employees’ health perceptions and working in rotation shifts carries a considerable degree of strain on the physiological function of the body. The industry management needs to address the perceptions and health-related problems of employees. It is recommended to discontinue work in fixed shifts and introduce forward rotating shift system after creating appropriate awareness among stakeholders.
P-537 SCREENING AND MANAGEMENT OF ADDICTION TO PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCES IN AN ELECTRICITY, DRINKING WATER AND SANITATION DISTRIBUTION COMPANY
Authors: Andaloussi Jamal , Laraqui Hossini Chakib 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Screening and management of addiction to psychoactive substances in an electricity, drinking water and sanitation distribution company.

Objective
the approach was designed to screen and manage people addicted to one or more of the following psychoactive substances: tobacco, cannabis, alcohol and certain drugs.

Methods
Candidates were either volunteers or designated employees in security positions. The misuse was assessed by specific tests: Fagerstrom,CAST and AUDIT. Motivational interviewing and decision scales completed the study tools. The breathalyzer was used to assess the level of alcohol in exhaled air. Blood test included and urine test (tetrahydrocannabinol and carbohydrate deficient transferrin). The majority of consultations were carried out by an addictologist-psychiatrist AND Medication cognitive-behavioral therapy. Confidentiality and medical secrecy were respected. Medical care was paid for by the employer. The agreement of the social partners was a prerequisite for this action.

Results
67% were volunteers. 12% of the total workforce were treated. 5.6% of addicts were women. 25% suffered from psychiatric pathologies (generalized anxiety disorder, depression, schizophrenia, etc.). At the end of treatment, 47.2% of addicts were abstinent.

Discussion and Conclusion
The Health, Safety and Working Conditions Committee was informed only of the costs and overall results of the approach, which has contributed to improving worker health and safety through: - Raising awareness of the risks of psychoactive substances consumption - Treating addiction - Improving well-being at work. - Preventing occupational injuries and accidents on the road
O-356 OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES AND SEVERITY AMONG WORKERS IN IRON AND STEEL INDUSTRIES IN TANZANIA
Authors: Kabelwa Saumu Shabani 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Most manufacturing iron and steel industries in Tanzania are not automated, workers are directly involved in various processes such as scrap metals segregation, collection, and addition to the furnace. This situation predisposes them to a hazardous environment which may endanger their health and safety.

Methods
The design was retrospective cross-sectional study using a quantitative approach conducted in 2022 in Tanzania. A sample size of 251 workers from the production line in iron and steel industries were involved in the study. The data were collected by a structured questionnaire modified from Occupational injuries statistics from household surveys and establishment surveys ILO manual. The questionnaire was translated in Swahili language by using back translation and pretested in Dar es Salaam Small Industries Cooperatives. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were used to identify different predictors of occupational injuries

Results
The Prevalence of 12 months occupational injury was 66.1%. About 61.1% of injured workers were hospitalized for 24 or more working hours. Working years [COR: 0.52, 95% CI: (0.28-0.94))], working days[COR: 0.44, 95% CI: (0.25-0.80))], working hours per week [COR: 4.37, (95% CI: (1.88 -10.17)], and working shift[COR: 0.52, (95% CI: (0.30- 0.90)] were significantly associated factors with prevalence of occupational injury.

Discussion and conclusion
Prevalence of occupational injuries in iron and steel industries is 66.1%, this prevalence is considerable high in comparison with 21.6%, 22%, 38.4% occupational injuries prevalence in iron and steel industries in India, Turkey and Ethiopia respectively. Much effort is needed to eradicate injury occurrence within the industries.
P-539 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN INDIA
Authors: Malhotra Parul 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
India, with 1.4 billion people is a land of challenges and opportunities in Occupational health. It contributes 17.5% of the global population and a staggering 25% of the global working population. • Occupational health is an important aspect of public health, especially given the country’s large workforce and diverse industries.

Methods
The factories act was introduced in India in 1948, as amended by the factories(Amendment) ACT, 1987(Act 20 of 1987), served to assist in formulating national policies in India with respect to occupational safety and health in factories and docks, to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of workers. • As per act, the Department of Factories, Boilers, Industrial Safety & Health, is responsible for enforcing occupational safety and health standards in all factories, mines, and docks.

Results
Despite these efforts, occupational health remains a challenge in India, In the unorganized sector, which accounts for a large portion of the country’s workforce. Unsafe working conditions, exposure to hazardous materials, and lack of access to basic health services are just a few of the issues that workers in the unorganized sector face.

Conclusion
Challenges in India 1. Substantial Labor Force in the unorganized sector 2. Insufficient execution of current legislation. 3 Significant amount of occupational illnesses that are unreported 4. A scarcity of proficient and skilled occupational health professionals 5. Multiplicity of statutory controls 6. Lack of interest or concern from stakeholders 7. Outsourcing physicians has diminished the significance of OH 8. Lack of Infrastructure 9. Delay in implementation of national policy on OH.
P-543 WORK-RELATED FACTORS IN POST-COVID SYNDROME
Authors: Magnavita Nicola , Meraglia Igor , Arnesano Gabriele , Merella Marco , Vacca Maria Eugenia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
SARS-CoV-2 infection in some cases is complicated by clinical sequelae known as post-Covid syndrome (PCS). Given the lack of a shared nosographic criterion, it is important to know the distribution of clinical pictures and the relationship of PCS with occupational factors.

Methods
PCS symptoms were collected during health surveillance in the workplace. Stress was studied with the effort/reward imbalance model. Work ability was measured with the Work Ability Index, sleep was studied with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory, and mental health with Goldberg’s anxiety and depression scales. The distribution of symptoms was studied by cluster analysis.

Results
In a population of 1378 workers under health surveillance, 164 COVID-19 cases occurred by 2021 and 115 of them (70%) had PCS. Three main clinical pictures were recognized: anosmia/dysgeusia (41% of cases); weakness/tiredness/fatigability (38%); and complex pictures including, in addition to the previous ones, muscle aches, headache, insomnia, dyspnea, tachycardia, and neuropsychological disorders (21%). PCS cases had a significant reduction in work capacity compared with colleagues healed without relics (p&lt;0,05). The occurrence of PCS was significantly associated with poor sleep quality (p&lt;0.05), anxiety (p&lt;0.01) and depression (p&lt;0.01). Work-related stress was not significantly associated with PCS.

Discussion
Although less severe than observed in severe cases of COVID-19 admitted to intensive care unit, PCS in a significant proportion of previously healthy workers may require supportive interventions to regain full work capacity.

Conclusion
Recognizing PCS in workplaces is very important to put in place the necessary measures to protect workers and limit the impact on productivity and health.
P-546 DETERMINANTS OF RETURNING TO WORK AFTER OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES
Authors: Sellami Imen , Feki Afef , Rmadi Nehla , Kotti Nada , Abbes Anwar , Tah Marieme , Meska Ahmed , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal , Hajjaji Mounira , Hrairi Anouare , Haddar Aicha 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Victims of occupational injuries often reintegrate successfully into the workplace. However, some may encounter difficulties in returning. Thus, identifying factors influencing this process is crucial to prevent an unsuccessful return to work (URTW).

Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted at the National Health Insurance Fund of Tunisia among victims of occupational injuries. Individual and professional factors have been evaluated through face-to-face questionnaires over a nine-month period. Biomechanical exposure was estimated by the job-exposure matrix “MADE” and social support by the Social Support Scale. Bortner score was used to assess psychological profile. Perceived mental and physical health was evaluated using the short form survey.

Results
A total of 199 injured workers participated. The mean age was 42.73±9.58 years. An URTW was observed in 39.7% of cases. Low social support, biomechanical exposure, the category of blue-collar workers, type A personality, working for long hours, severe injuries, and duration of absence were associated with a URTW. Better perceived mental and physical health protected from worse outcomes. Multiple binary logistic regression identified four factors independently associated with a URTW after occupational injuries: weekly workload, social support, and perceived physical and mental health.

Discussion
The occurrence of URTW had several determinants. Hence, health promotion programs should be enhanced to include safety measures for vulnerable categories by reducing biomechanical exposure in the workplace and enhancing social support.

Conclusion
To limit URTW, collaboration among employees, employers, safety officers, and occupational therapists is always necessary to provide appropriate guidance for vulnerable employees during the process of returning to work.