bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SS61-04 A REVIEW OF VALIDATED INSTRUMENTS FOR WORK-RELATED ASTHMA AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE WAQASS QUESTIONNAIRE AND ALGORITHM FOR SCREENING AND SURVEILLANCE
Authors: Jeebhay Mohamed , Suojalehto Hille , Henneberger Paul , Valverde Marcela 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Respiratory questionnaires for workplace surveillance or epidemiological surveys are important tools for detecting work-related asthma (WRA). There is a need for a valid and reliable WRA questionnaire that is administered easily and used widely. The project aim was to review the evidence on WRA questionnaires and algorithms, and propose a standardised instrument.

Materials and Methods
A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane for all years until March 2021. Search terms addressed topics on asthma, occupational diseases, questionnaires, surveys and algorithms. The questionnaire components evaluated by taskforce members identified six high-quality studies, accounting for five questionnaires and two algorithms. Information was extracted on instrument construction, specific questions used, validation and performance. A set of common questions was identified and an algorithm developed for identifying suspected WRA. The questionnaire items were sorted into a) general allergy and asthma (GA), b) WRA or rhinitis, and assigned scores.

Results
The final WRA questionnaire and algorithm for screening and surveillance was constructed. The questionnaire contains eight questions on general asthma symptoms, diagnosis and medication, four on WRA symptoms and two on work-related ocular-nasal symptoms. A total WRA total score (WRATS), being the sum of the GA total score (GATS) and WRA symptom score (WRASS), if ≥1 triggers referral for clinical assessment and tests to confirm WRA.

Conclusions
This is the first WRA questionnaire based on validated questions from previous studies. Future studies need to evaluate its performance in diverse geographic and occupational settings, to enable refinement and translation for widespread use.
SS62 ERGONOMICS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS IN HEALTH WORKERS AND HEALTHCARE SETTINGS
Authors: Salmen-Navarro Acran 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Health workers comprise the largest global workforce and are found in every country. The workforce includes individuals who provide patient care, such as physicians, nurses, midwives, physiotherapists, dentists, radiographers and those who provide management / supportive services, e.g. administrators, cooks, transport, security and housekeeping staff. They are exposed to various workplace hazards, in particular, ergonomic hazards causing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs), which are the most disabling and keep workers away from work, causing additional burdens to health systems. These risk factors and vulnerability as a workforce are acutely worsening due to the global shortage of health workers. Identifying, treating and preventing ergonomic hazards should be a priority in every occupational health program in healthcare settings to guarantee a healthy and productive workforce.
SS62-01 ASSESSMENT OF RISK OF WORK-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS IN SURGEONS, NURSES AND PHYSIOTHERAPISTS
Authors: Sharan Deepak 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Surgeons, nurses and physiotherapists are highly susceptible to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs), which can profoundly impact their overall health and wellbeing. The demanding nature of their job often requires them to perform repetitive movements, manual handling and maintain uncomfortable positions for extended periods. They are exposed to high levels of physical exertion, workload, psychosocial stress, sudden or unanticipated client movements, restricted work areas, and poor job conditions. They perform dynamic, complex, and variable tasks in multiple work locations.
Existing risk assessment tools such as REBA or OWAS fail to appropriately evaluate the nature of the task, variable postures involved and the duration of exposure that can predict the risk of a surgeon, nurse and physiotherapist developing WRMSD. Pain, discomfort, and limited mobility impact the workability of these professionals. The consequences of WRMSDs are absenteeism, presenteeism, loss of productivity, low quality of work, work disability, and poor quality of life. Certain tasks can become impossible, e.g., manual therapy using the hands, performance of surgery or handling or transferring heavier clients. Several healthcare professionals had to modify their work, quit, or look for alternative careers, leading to an acute shortage of skilled professionals.
It is vital to address this issue promptly and effectively to ensure the long-term health and safety of these crucial healthcare professionals and the patients who rely on their expertise and care. This lecture will review the available tools to assess the risk of WRMSDs in surgeons, nurses and physiotherapists.
SS64-04 CHARTING THE EVIDENCE OF OTOTOXICITY FOR TOXIC SUBSTANCES
Authors: Zarus Gregory , Ruiz Patricia , Benedict Rae , Carlson Krystin , Morata Thais 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Ototoxicity is an important public health concern. Few studies involve non-pharmacological substances. Auditory problems in workers exposed to toxic substances have been frequently documented. However, hearing is seldom measured in case-control exposure studies involving these substances.

Methods
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) develops hundreds of toxicological profiles on substances frequently found in the environment, including volatile organic substances, pesticides, herbicides, metals, inorganic substances, and radionuclides. Each peer-reviewed profile reflects an extensive evaluation, summary, and interpretation of the available toxicological and epidemiological information. Although not presented as “ototoxicity” in the profiles, there are several signs and symptoms associated with “ototoxicity”, such as hearing loss, tonal alteration, and effects to the hair cells of the Organ of Corti. Similarly, association of exposure to chemical substances with vestibular effects such as dizziness, vertigo, visual problems, and headaches are non-specific making them hard to discern from other neurological causes. Study data on tinnitus are rarer still. While literature searches document tinnitus among the frequent complaints of populations exposed to toxic substances, dose-response studies are lacking for this reported affect.

Discussion and Conclusion
Here we systematically present the evidence of ototoxicity associations of several hazardous substances that people are exposed to, both in the environmental and in an occupational setting.

Disclaimer
The conclusions in this presentation are those of the presenter and do not necessarily represent the official position of the NIOSH, CDC and ATSDR.
SS65-03 PRACTICAL APPROACHES, INCLUDING ROVING SAFETY REPS, TO ACHIEVE DECENT WORK (SDG 8)
Authors: Samant Yogindra , Rygh Færevåg Gro Synnøve 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) aims to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. However, ensuring occupational safety and health (OSH) for workers, particularly those in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the informal sector, is a significant challenge. These workers are more vulnerable to OSH risks due to limited safety training, restricted equipment access, and less regulated work environments.

Materials and Methods
One practical approach to enhancing OSH in these sectors is to provide access to information and training on OSH risks and preventive measures. This can be done by governments, employers, trade unions, or other organizations. Norway offers an interesting model of prevention for SMEs with its Roving Safety Rep program, which provide interesting templates for other countries as well. OSH regulations are reinforced and stringent enforcement ensured vis-a-vis hierarchy of controls, regardless of employment status.

Results
Raising OSH awareness among employers, workers, and the public is also essential. This can be done through educational campaigns and sharing real-life workplace incidents. Additional measures are needed to protect migrant workers, who are over-represented in the informal and SME sectors. These include engaging migrant workers in OSH decisions, providing culturally sensitive training and information, and prioritizing the hierarchy of controls for occupational exposure prevention.

Conclusions
Collectively, these actions will create a safe and healthy work environment for all workers, contributing towards the realization of SDG 8.
SS67-03 WHAT IS THE HEALTH BURDEN OF HEAT STRESS COMBINED WITH THE WORKLOAD IN INDIA'S INFORMAL AGRICULTURE SECTORS?
Authors: Venugopal Vidhya , Latha P K , Shanmugam Rekha , Krishnamoorthy Manikandan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Heat stress will worsen in developing nations with large informal economies and manual labor, affecting health and productivity.

Materials and Methods
We examined seasonal heat exposures, job-specific workload (WL), heat-related illness (HRI) symptoms, and productivity loss (PL) in 275 informal agriculture workers between 2018 and 2022 to determine if heat combined with manual workload is associated with HRIs. HSIs were measured using established procedures. For varying WLs, heat stress was defined as exceeding the WBGT-Threshold Limit Value (TLV).

Results
The average summer WBGT was 29.9±3.3°C and winter WBGT was 27.6±2.3°C. In the summer, 95% of workers were exposed to WBGTs that exceeded the TLVs, while in the winter, about 47% were exposed to WBGTs above the TLVs. 80% of workers exhibited HRI symptoms, 39% had HSI symptoms, and 65% reported PL. Statistically significant positive associations were observed between WL and the incidence of HRI (AOR: 4.6; 95% CI: 1.7-12.1) and HSI (AOR: 12;95% CI:1.5-97.5) after controlling for potential confounders. In comparison with workers with moderate WL, those with heavy WL had an 11.5 times higher risk of PL (95% Cl: 2.4-54.0).

Conclusions
In Indian informal sectors, both summer and winter temperatures exceeded the TLV for safe working conditions. Heat and manual workload are significant predictors of dehydration, HRIs, and, decreased worker productivity. When heavy workloads are combined with high workplace WBGTs, the risk of HRIs is significantly increased. To protect millions of informal workers globally from heat impacts, it is urgent to develop culturally sensitive interventions, especially in a rising temperature scenario.
SS68-03 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SURVEILLANCE FOR WORKERS EXPOSED TO LUNG CARCINOGENS
Authors: Delva Fleur , Pairon Jean-Claude , Margery Jacques , Laurent François , Petitprez Karine , André Michel , Bessette Dominique , Brochard Patrick , Certin Jean-François , Chouaid Christos , Clin-Godard Bénédicte , Goutet Pierre , Grenier Philippe , Ibanez Gladys , Iwatsubo Yuriko , Lebaupain Claudie , Leroy Chloé , Milleron Bernard , Paris Christophe , Stücker Isabelle , Thouveny Gilbert , Tirmarche Dominique , Vandame Martine , Vandenberghe Odile 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The National Lung Screening Trial showed the efficacy of chest CT scan screening for population aged 55–74 years, smokers or ex-smokers (≤15 years) with over 30 pack-years. There was no recommendation for occupational lung carcinogens. The aim of this recommendation was to define the occupational health surveillance for workers exposed, or have been exposed, to pulmonary occupational carcinogens.
This recommendation was requested by Direction du Général du Travail with participation of Société Française de Médecine du Travail, Société de Pneumologie de Langue Française, Société Française de Radiologie and several physicians.

Materials and Methods
For this topic, we used the methodology ‘Recommendations for clinical practice’ recommended by the Haute Autorité de Santé.

Results
Twenty-six recommendations were issued for the occupational health surveillance for workers exposed, or previously exposed, to pulmonary carcinogens. The Working Group recommended the implementation of a trial taking into account the level of exposure to all known occupational lung carcinogens and smoking status. The aim is to test the feasibility of low-dose thoracic CT screening in a population at high risk of lung cancer. Other recommendations were on exposure diagnosis, prevention, traceability, and the role of the occupational health department and maintaining employment.

Conclusions
In the first step, the Working Group recommended the implementation of a feasibility study in two French departments, in subjects aged 55 to 74 years, occupationally exposed, or previously exposed, to lung carcinogens, smokers or ex-smokers. This feasibility study is conducted in two specialized centres with annual CT scan during two years.
SS69-01 NOISE POLLUTION IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY IN TANGIER
Authors: Marrakchi Mounir 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The automobile industry is a structuring pole for the national economy, particularly in the Tangier region where the majority of companies in this sector is based. This industry is a very vast field, it includes numerous phases ranging from engine machining to vehicle trim parts, which determines the varieties in this field. Among the latter, noise pollution is present in almost all phases of the automobile industry. the objective of our study was to evaluate noise pollution among workers in the automobile industry sector as well as to detect possible consequences.

Materials and Methods
This is a multicentric study carried out at the level of six industrial units of different activities all related to the automobile industry. It was based on the measurement of daily sound exposure at the workplace (exposimetry) and within workshops (noise mapping), in addition to the evaluation of the consequences for exposed people (audiometry).

Results
Noise pollution was present in the different positions and phases of the automobile industry in addition to certain existing consequences on the health of exposed workers, although this industry has only recently been deployed in the region. The main health effects were hearing loss, sleep disturbances, mental health problems, heart problems, stress, and reduced work performance.

Conclusion
Noise pollution represents a real danger for workers in the automobile industry. Additional metrological studies as well as early detection of its consequences on health are the key to effective prevention.
SS70-05 ESTIMATING THE PREVALENCE OF CARCINOGEN EXPOSURE IN NEW ZEALAND
Authors: Khieu Trang , Mohammad Khandoker Akib 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In New Zealand, carcinogens and airborne substances contribute to one-third of work-related harms. Annually there are about 750-900 work-related deaths. About 70% of these deaths are associated with cancers and respiratory diseases. To date, there is no baseline exposure database on occupational carcinogens. Previous exposure surveys heavily relied on workers' self-reported information, which might not provide a true prevalence of carcinogen exposure in New Zealand.

Materials and Methods
The survey used the Occupational Integrated Database Exposure Assessment System (OccIDEAS) developed by the OccIDEAS team in Australia. OccIDEAS assesses the probability and level of exposure to specific carcinogenic agents using workers' job and task module algorithms and experts' opinions such as occupation hygienists, physicians, and epidemiologists. The survey covers over 50 known or probable carcinogenic agents based on IARC assessments.

Results
Approximately 57.5% of workers are probably exposed to at least one carcinogen at any level (either low, medium, or high exposure). About 23.3% are exposed to five or more carcinogens at any level. Some 28.0% of workers are deemed to have high probable exposure to at least one carcinogen. Māori workers are more likely to be exposed to at least one carcinogen at any exposure level than others. Exposure to carcinogenic agents is markedly different by industry, occupational group, gender, and age.

Conclusions
The survey supports the New Zealand Health and Safety at Work Strategy 2018-2028. These results could be used to estimate the burden of harm from carcinogens, develop the New Zealand profiles on occupational carcinogens, and prioritise which agents to focus on.
SS71-02 FUTURISTIC VISION: MENTAL HEALTH IN COLOMBIA
Authors: Marquez-Medina Luis Guillermo , Caraballo-Arias Yohama , Rincón-Sarmiento Juan Ignacio 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Society has had a mental change with the inclusion of technology in the daily routine, which could affect the physical, mental, and emotional health of workers, and has determined the need to include a guideline that provides tools to identify mental health issues and adopt appropriate preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of developing a mental illness in the training of safety and health at work in Colombia.
The fourth industrial revolution will not only change everything that man does, but also there is a greater dependence on the internet, can diminish our current capacities to solve situations or problems in the road of our life.

Materials and Methods
In the classification of occupational diseases defined by Law 1477 of 2014, this list does not mention the possible mental illnesses derived from the use of innovative technologies, without having a statistical record of the possible effect on mental health. In this sense, through the new modality of teleworking, remote work when using computer, affecting our behavior and our mental health.

Conclusion
Health professionals do not currently have training in occupational health such as diseases derived from the use of new technologies, therefore professionals are invited to conduct research and create tools for the prevention of the impact on mental health derived of the use of new technologies and the changes they will generate in the short term in society.
SS72-01 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH TRAINING IN INDIA – CURRENT STATUS AND CHALLENGES
Authors: Pingle Shyam , Sau Arkaprabha 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
At 1.3 billion, India comprises not just 17.8% of the global population but contributes almost 25% of global working population due to its young demographics.

Methods and Materials
Following the infamous Bhopal gas disaster, the Ministry of Labor and Employment introduced the Associate Fellow in Industrial Health (AFIH) course at the Central Labor Institute, Mumbai, in 1995. This skills-based certificate course of three months duration, offered annually, was made a mandatory qualification for doctors to work as physicians in the hazardous industry.

Results
Once limited to only 50 participants annually, since the last 15 years, the course has expanded and is now run by 17 institutions training about 600 doctors per year. About 4,400 doctors have been trained to date. Currently there is no other course for doctors in occupational health in the country. Moreover, there is no course to produce occupational health nurses either. Given the size of the country and expanding industries, the need for occupational health personnel is huge and at the current rate, may take many decades to produce enough manpower. In view of this, the Indian Association of Occupational Health, a non-governmental association of occupational health experts, undertook collaborative awareness and a sensitization initiative for primary care physicians in India by conducting in person training courses, satellite training courses, publishing a book on Basic Occupational Health Services, and producing training videos available on social media.

Conclusion
Due to its own set of constraints, integrating occupational health training with existing public healthcare services can be a challenging task. Thus, capacity building in occupational health is a huge challenge and needs concerted efforts.
SS72-02 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH (OH) EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN PRIMARY HEALTHCARE – ‘SUS-BRASIL’
Authors: Dias Elizabeth Costa , de Lima Mônica Angelim Gomes , Andrade Andréa Garboggini Melo , de Carvalho Rita Cássia Peralta , Mendes Tiza , Monteiro Ana Carina Dunham , Prazeres Taiane Araújo dos , da Neves Robson Fonseca 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational health (OH) education and training is a complex task, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods and Materials
A Brazilian experience in the Unified Health System (SUS), within the scope of primary healthcare (PHC), the gateway and coordinator of SUS presents results of a partnership between the Ministry of Health and public universities. These are two self-instructional courses, in the distance education (EAD) format in the Moodle Virtual Environment offered throughout the national territory with the objective of training professionals, managers and members of social control, to apply the technical guidelines of the National Health Policy of the Worker. The first focused on analyzing the Occupational Health Situation (ASSTT) in the teams' territory, with a workload of 96 hours, lasting six months. The second aimed at qualifying health actions of PHC workers, considering the relationship between work and the health-disease process, with a workload of 70 hours and duration of four months.

Results
There were 2,343 participants in the pilot groups of both courses, although with low participation of PHC professionals. Communication and information technologies methodologies were used, and problem situations with interactive scenarios, modular activities and a guidance system for the execution of activities and final evaluation. Despite the positive assessment of graduates, only 725 of those enrolled completed the process. Among the causes for this abandonment rate are flaws in the disclosure processes to reached the preferred target audience, PHC workers.

Conclusion
Thus, it is necessary to improve the initiative and make adjustments to meet the specificities of territories and PHC professionals.
SS72-04 OSH EDUCATION IN LOW AND MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES (LMICS): WHAT IS THE ROLE FOR INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION?
Authors: van Dijk Frank , Sulistomo Astrid , Caraballo-Arias Yohama , Moti Suvarna , Zungu Muzimkhulu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Working conditions in LMICs can include both very basic and high-tech conditions, much work is informal, agriculture is a large sector, and risks can be high. Preventive solutions must be robust, affordable, sustainable, and preferably locally produced. Legislation is often absent or insufficient, and poorly implemented. Scarce occupational safety and health (OSH) experts are mostly working for large companies. OSH education in LMICs differs from education in high-income countries and has a high priority.

Materials and Methods
Basic conditions must be clear. Which target groups must be educated? Workers, managers, students, OSH professionals, primary care, selected medical specialists? What is the starting level of knowledge, skills, and attitudes? Are face-to-face meetings possible? How much time do people have for a workshop or course?

Results
Learning objectives are the basis. The content should be relevant and reliable. What is the focus - on practice-oriented skills or policy development? Is the educational format a learning-by-doing project or a blended learning module? The evaluation must be decided. International collaboration flourishes by open access, downloadable, relevant, and reliable learning materials. New tools are online seminars and MOOCs, the e-library of e-lessons and e-modules (from LDOH Foundation), a new book and materials for agriculture. New translation tools arrived. We need core curriculum materials for occupational physicians and nurses, like exist for hygienists.

Conclusions
Transplanting education from rich countries to LMICs is not a good idea. Is a new international platform for OSH education for LMICs better? What about education for Basic Occupational Health Services based upon country-specific tasks?