bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-563 FRENCH DATABASE ON OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO VIBRATION: PART 1 - EVALUATION PROTOCOL AND MACHINE EMISSIONS
Authors: Amari Maël , Clerc Frédéric 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational exposure to Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) causes low back pain. Hand-Arm Vibration (HAV) causes vascular, neurological, osteoarticular and musculotendinous disorders. In France, some of these pathologies are considered as occupational diseases.

Methods
Both French national OSH institute and health insurance are carrying out vibration exposure measurements under real working conditions: workers sitting in a vehicle moving on an irregular surface (WBV), and workers using hand-held power tools (HAV). The COLPHY exposure database contains the results of more than 3,700 of these field measurements. The collected information includes measured vibration emission values, exposure durations, technical characteristics and operating conditions of the machines. The evaluation protocol complies with ISO 2631-1 and ISO 5349-1 standards. Descriptive statistics were computed on emission values.

Results
For WBV, the most vibrating machines are bulldozers, dumpers, loaders, compactors and forklift trucks. For HAV, these are percussive machines (pick hammer, trench rammer), roto-percussive machines (impact drill, impact wrench), rotary machines (grinders, sanders) and high-speed rotary machines (small grinders, polishers).

Discussion
The COLPHY database enables to identify the most emissive machines under actual operating conditions, as well as significant parameters for reducing worker exposure. One limitation is that some machines are poorly represented. Their emissions are also highly dependent on conditions of use. They require more measurements and concentrate research efforts.

Conclusion
These results are made available to OSH practitioners in the form of a simplified risk assessment tool available for free. This software is used to help companies comply with the exposure limit values set by the regulations.
P-567 A NEW WAY TO PRIORITIZE APPROACHES TO REDUCE NOISE AT WORK
Authors: Fritschi Lin , Lewkowski Katherine , Heyworth Jane 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Noise at work is a significant problem, with 15% of the Australian working population exposed above the occupational limit (LAeq8h &gt; 85dB) on any single working day. However the approach to occupational noise control relies on workers themselves wearing correct hearing protection. The management of environmental noise control is a better approach as it relies on the reduction of noise at the source (e.g leaf blowers) or physical barriers such as those around highways.

Methods
We used data from a national survey of tools used and tasks performed during each participant’s last working shift. OccIDEAS, a workplace exposure application which uses a preprogrammed database to assign noise exposure levels to each noisy activity, was used to estimate each worker’s LAeq8h based on the noise level and the time doing that task.

Results
Powered tools and equipment were the most common noisy tools and were responsible for 59% of all noise exposure. Modelling demonstrated that a 10 dBA noise-level reduction of all powered tools and equipment would lead to a 26% (95% confidence interval: 23% - 30%) reduction of workers with an Laeq8h &gt; 85dB. This could represent over 300,000 Australian workers no longer exposed above the workplace limit and a reduction in the future burden of hearing loss, tinnitus, workplace injuries and other health effects.

Discussion and conclusion
Initiatives to reduce the noise emissions of specific powered tool groups are warranted.
P-569 EFFECTIVENESS OF ADMINISTRATIVE INTERVENTIONS IN REDUCING MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AMONG CRANE & HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS
Authors: Janardhanam Vishnumohan , V Akila 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) account for maximum work-related ailments among crane/heavy equipment operators. Exposure to whole body vibration while operating the cranes/heavy equipment is the primary risk factor for developing musculoskeletal discomfort. We report the study conducted among crane/ heavy equipment operators in Salem District, India, done with the objective of implementing administrative interventions to minimize their exposure to vibration.

Methods
A randomized comparative study was conducted on 68 (N) male crane/heavy equipment operators in a steel industry. Prevalence of MSDs was determined using the standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Administrative controls such as reduced working hours for the 68, of which n=38 (study group) were additionally transferred to operating non-vibrating equipment for 6 months. Evaluation of body discomfort before and after the intervention was done using Corlett & Bishop’s body-part discomfort scale.

Results
Initially results of NMQ showed the prevalence of MSDs among 68 operators mainly in the spine and shoulder regions (100%). After specific reduction of exposure to vibration, 81.58% from the study group (31/38) reported decrement of discomfort in neck, shoulder, arms, and lower back. In the comparative group of 30, the decrement was reported by 54% (17/30).

Discussion
Administrative controls though interim, can be implemented immediately compared to elimination, substitution, or engineering controls which may take time.

Conclusions
It can be concluded that a combination of reduction in time exposure and withdrawal from source of exposure to vibration, reduced discomfort in different body parts significantly. The conclusion is that administrative interventions, as an interim measure, can decrease MSDs of at-risk body regions.
P-571 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HEARING LOSS AND IMPAIRED FASTING GLUCOSE AND DIABETES
Authors: Nakhli Rania , Kacem Imene , Abiadh R , Hassine Anis , Chaima Sridi , Chelly Farah , Maoua Maher , Amor Sana Ben , Mrizak Nejib , Nakhli Rania , Kacem Imene , Chouchane Asma , Aloui Asma , Bouhoula Maroua , Brahem Aicha , Kalboussi Houda , Chatti Souhaiel 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hearing impairment is affecting more than 5% of the world’s population. Mostly, it is acquired by exposure to loud noise. It has multifarious factors, mainly diabetes.

Aim
To study the relationship between impaired fasting glucose and diabetes with noise induced hearing loss.

Methods
A cross sectional study was carried out in employees working in furniture manufacturing company from January 1st to December 31st 2020. All the participants underwent a pure tone audiogram and a blood test for fasting glucose.

Results
This study included 67 workers. The mean age was 46.42 ± 7.7 years, and the majority were male (85.1%). The workers were exposed to noise level &gt; 85 dB in 15% of the cases. The study revealed that 10.4% were diabetic and 26.9% were prediabetic. During the study period, 34.3% workers had bilateral hearing loss. Workers with hearing loss had a slightly higher mean fasting blood glucose (6.1 mmol/l) than workers without hearing loss (5.97 mmol/l) but without a significant association (p=0.9). Also, there was no significant association between hearing loss and diabetes (p=0.96).

Discussion and conclusion
Although our study didn’t reveal a significant association between hearing loss and glycemia group, it suggested that diabetes could act synergistically with presbycusis process to increase hearing loss. Further prospective studies are needed to better understand effects of diabetes on hearing loss at work fields.
P-576 ASSESSING THE MULTIDIMENSIONAL COMFORT OF EARPLUGS: VALIDATION OF THE NORTH AMERICAN COPROD QUESTIONNAIRE
Authors: Negrini Alessia , Gauvin Chantal , Terroir Jonathan , Berbiche Djamal , Jolly Caroline , Martin Laurence , Doutres Olivier 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The use of hearing protection devices (HPDs), such as earplugs, is one way of reducing the risk of hearing loss associated with noise exposure. To ensure effective protection, workers must wear their earplugs consistently and properly, which is challenging since earplugs are often perceived as uncomfortable.

Methods
Based on a comfort model of HPD use, this contribution considers four comfort dimensions (physical, functional, acoustical, psychological) and the influence of the physical and psychosocial characteristics of the triad “environment/person/earplugs” (e.g., temperature, age, shape) on overall comfort. The purpose of this study was to validate the North American COmfort of hearing PROtection Device questionnaire (COPROD-NAQ) assessing the comfort dimensions of earplugs among people working in noisy environments.

Results
Longitudinal data were collected over a 7-week period in three Canadian manufacturing companies (N=173). Nine earplug models were tested. Participants answered to COPROD-NAQ as well as to another self-reported questionnaire measuring the characteristics of the triad. Factor analyses revealed that 51 items spread out on 11 conceptual sub-dimensions (e.g., acoustical comfort–internal noise; psychological comfort–habituation), with satisfactory alpha coefﬁcients. Regression analyses showed that multiple characteristics of the triad (e.g., temperature, hand dominance, earplug model) influenced the overall comfort. Comparison tests showed that custom earplugs were significantly perceived as the most comfortable.

Discussion and conclusion
The COPROD-NAQ is a validated and powerful tool for assessing the multidimensional comfort of earplugs, and its interaction with the triad characteristics. It will be very useful in prevention programs and for helping manufacturers in designing more comfortable earplugs in order to reduce hearing loss among workers.
O-381 BUILDING SAFE SPACES: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND THE WORKPLACE – RECOMMENATIONS ACTIONS AND WORKPLACE PRACTICES IN RESPONSE TO ILO CONVENTION 190 (ON ELIMINATING VIOLENCE AND HARASSMENT IN THE WORLD OF WORK)
Authors: Copsey Sarah 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Domestic violence was recognised as a workplace issue in 2019 in ILO Convention 190 ‘Eliminating violence and harassment in the world of work’. ILO Recommendation 205 states that appropriate measures to take include including domestic violence in workplace risk assessment.

Materials and methods
Good practice guidance, employer, government action, and social partner actions were identified through internet searches of grey material, for example from public administrations, employer/trade union organisations and NGOs, and analysed.

Result-Discussions
How domestic violence is approached as a work issue varies across countries and sectors. Legislation may require paid leave or be framed within employers’ duty of care. In the workplace domestic violence policies often feature as part of company equality, diversity and inclusion programmes, human resources policies, and/or occupational health and wellness at work programmes. Actions can include paid leave, workplace support, awareness raising and training. Measures to reduce risks are comparable and compatible with measures to prevent work-related violence from the public. For example, a policy could include procedures for handling an incident at work, e.g. when doors should be locked, involving the police, and staff training. A support measure for the victim could be changing their work location. Additional advice includes ways to keep in touch with teleworkers who are or may be suffering abuse. Companies may establish workplace advocates, company networks, partner with NGOs, provide access to counselling or address perpetrators

Conclusions
Good practices exist that governments and workplaces can use and adapt to their own requirements, including small businesses. Actions and implementation experiences need sharing.
O-383 LOOKING AFTER OUR MENOPAUSAL WORKFORCE: A MODEL FOR NHS STAFF
Authors: Rymer Janice , Holloway Debra , Bruce Deborah , Bowen Joan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Approximately 50% of the UK NHS workforce are women within the 45-65 age range, many deciding to retire prematurely due to menopausal symptoms. Post-pandemic, the combination of reduced primary care access and reluctance to prescribe HRT exacerbated this issue. A pilot Menopause clinic was set up for Guy’s and St Thomas’s NHS Trust staff to access specialist menopause advice, assess feasibility, and generate a model for other NHS Trusts.

Methods
Forty-eight 15-minute appointments were scheduled with 3 Trust menopause specialist clinicians and advertised across the Trust. Staff respondents completed a pre-appointment questionnaire and were then offered an appointment. The clinics provided advice and guidance only, for onward discussion/action within primary care. All participants were invited to complete an anonymous feedback survey. All clinic staff also provided feedback.

Results
All available appointments were booked within 2 weeks of pilot launch. Attendance rate was 89%. Survey response rates were 73% and 100% respectively by participants and clinic staff. 100% of participants reported that all their questions were answered by the specialist, they received a clear management plan and would use the service again. Participants rated the usefulness of consultation as 8.9 on average (on 0-10 point scale) and clinic staff rated relevance and impact of consultations as 9.8.

Discussion
The success of this pilot menopause clinic has facilitated the provision of a regular clinic for GSTT staff.

Conclusion
This pilot was assessed as successful by participants and clinic staff, and provides a template for other Trusts to adopt.
O-392 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ACCESS CHALLENGES FOR WOMEN IN ARTISANAL AND SMALL SCALE MINING. LESSONS LEARNT FROM ZIMBABWE
Authors: Moyo Floewnce 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Women face a multiplicity of challenges in occupational environments particularly in artisanal and small scale mining (ASM). This is due to gendered occupational health and safety issues where women are considered a weaker gender and considered inferior even in mining, Women also face multiple competing roles including family responsibilities. Experiences in Zimbabwe of dealing with women in ASMs have provided important lessons learnt in health and safety.

Methods
Baines Occupational Health Services is implementing an occupational health program in Zimbabwe for screening for occupational lung diseases in ASM. The program provides for workplace based screening for ASMs in remote areas. This also includes conducting health and safety promotion sessions. Women involved in ASM also participate in the program. Through the interaction and screening services of women important revelations have emerged that are important for occupational health and safety.

Results
Women in ASM reported several challenges that affect them in accessing occupational health services. These range from the fact that they work with their children and fear being accused of child abuse when they present for screening services. Women cited challenges with gender based violence and being looked down upon by their male counterparts. There is predominance of men and women feel overwhelmed queuing for services especially if they are pregnant and breastfeeding.

Discussion and Conclusion
Specific strategies for occupational health services provision for women in ASM should take into account the special issues of children, pregnancy, breastfeeding and gender based violence. Gender based violence against women in ASM requires special management.
O-393 EXPLORING DOMESTIC WORKERS’ EXPERIENCES OF NAVIGATING HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Braham Christy Adeola 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Workers in informal employment comprise the majority of the global workforce, including domestic workers who provide care and support services in private homes. Domestic workers face exploitation and vulnerability to workplace health and safety risks. This study aims to explore the impacts of the pandemic on domestic workers’ health, and provide insights into how grassroots worker organizations responded.

Methods
This study forms part of a mixed-methods, longitudinal research project conducted in collaboration with grassroots worker organizations. Through purposive sampling, domestic workers in Bulgaria, India, Mexico, Peru and Thailand participated in phone surveys and semi-structured interviews on two occasions, during July 2020 and July 2021. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive analyses, while qualitative data were analyzed through thematic analysis.

Results
Three hundred and fifty-six domestic workers participated - the majority being women (98%) and migrants (63%). Increased health and safety risks between 2020 and 2021 were due to the informal nature of domestic work. 50% of domestic workers reported increased workplace exposure to COVID-19. Live-in domestic workers experienced increased mental distress, longer working hours, and harder physical labor. Worker organizations offered domestic workers emotional support, personal protective equipment, health education, and negotiated with employers and the state to address workers’ health needs.

Discussion
Health and safety risks associated with informal, domestic employment accumulated during the pandemic. Lacking support from state, employers and private actors, worker organizations provided mutual aid.

Conclusion
State intervention is needed to implement inclusive labor protections and health policies to protect domestic workers’ health, in consultation with worker organizations and employers.
P-579 THE CHALLENGES FOR THE HEALTH OF WORKING WOMEN IN THE POST-PANDEMIC
Authors: Canova Karla , Bello Igor 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID 19 crisis has deepened the gaps between working men and women, and has accelerated technological changes that configure new work realities. This paper analyzes the consequences that these changes have for the health of working women in the post-pandemic period.

Method
Descriptive, bibliographic and longitudinal study, which contrasts the findings of the years 2020 to 2023, according to studies carried out by ILO, WHO, UN Women and research published in indexed scientific journals.

Results
The pandemic widened the gender inequality gap. In the first place, with the appearance of new work modalities and the various public policies adopted. In these terms, the emerging risks also had an impact at different levels and it is necessary to evaluate the real impact on women.

Discussion
The findings from the time of the pandemic contrast with the post-pandemic. Public and business policies generated to mitigate the impact and promote greater equity in women’s work are evaluated.

Conclusion
The pandemic negatively impacted the health of working women and has catalyzed various trends in the world of work and changes in technology that may pose threats or opportunities for women. The adaptation to hybrid and teleworking modes, cybersecurity considerations, the increasingly widespread use of technologies such as the Metaverse, Big Data or Artificial Intelligence can represent additional challenges for working women, who are in full evolution.
P-580 AGGRESSION, PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE IN FRENCH SEAMAN: HARASSEA STUDY
Authors: Fort Emmanuel , Sanz-Trepiana Leticia , Bost Emmanuelle , Jégo Camille , Lucas David 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The aim of this study was to evaluate and quantify verbal abuse, physical aggression, psychological and sexual violence at work in French seamen.

Methods
This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study. Seamen were recruited during their medical examination for fitness to sail between January and April 2022.The self-administered online questionnaire contained health status, job satisfaction, the European mini-module, verbal and physical aggressions, psychological violence and sexual violence at work questions, and the PCLS-5 scale for assessing post-traumatic stress.

Results
17% of respondents were women. A third of seamen feel that their work has a negative impact on their health. In the last 12 months, 25% reported verbal abuse and 3% physical abuse at work (public, colleague, superior) (women: 41% and 8%). 11% reported they had experienced at least one hostile behavior (men: 10%; women: 16%; p=0.02). 20% reported they had been subjected to at least one form of sexual harassment (men: 17%; women: 32%; p&lt;0.0001). 39% of seamen reported at least one traumatic event. 7% have already sought professional care following traumatic situations and/or aggression. 56% were aware of the existence of procedures in the event of aggression within their armament (men: 58%; women: 47%). Among PCLS-5 respondents, 19% had a PCSL-5 score&gt;=33 (men: 15%; women: 30%).

Discussion
Prevalences of aggression, hostile behavior and sexual harassment were significantly higher for women in French seamen.

Conclusion
Preventive action is needed to prevent aggression, psychological violence and sexual violence in the workplace. The procedures for notifying employers need to be better known and identifiable by seamen.
P-581 NEW VALUE GAINED BY BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS BY CONTINUING TO WORK
Authors: Fijii Yuka , Sugisaki Hitomi , Goto Yuki , Kato Mutsumi , Shimizu Tomoko , Miyazaki Tokuko 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
To determine the awareness of working gained by female breast cancer survivors by continued to work.

Methods Study design
Qualitative descriptive study. Study participants: Three women who were affected by breast cancer in their thirties and continued to work. They have had no recurrent disease for at least five years since the incident. Date collection: From 2020 to 2022. After informed of the purpose, significance, and method of the study, the participants were interviewed using a narrative approach. The interview recorded with an IC recorder was used as a verbatim record, and the record was analyzed by the SCAT method to derive theoretical descriptions for each participant. Common theoretical descriptions among three participants were extracted in two separate periods: Period 1 &lt;Working with treatment after diagnosis&gt; and Period 2 &lt;Working after completion of treatment&gt;.

Results
The extracted common theoretical descriptions were “Physical and mental suffering” and “Support from important family and friends” for Period 1 and “Awe of life,” “Reaffirmation of the meaning of working,” and “Challenge to living their lives.”

Discussion -Conclusion
For Period 1, physical and mental suffering were intense, and support from their family and friends was important, although the three participants received different treatments. For Period 2, having gotten through cancer treatment put them in “awe of life” and allowed them to find new value in working, in other words, “reaffirmation of the meaning of working.” In addition, it also led to the “challenge to living their lives” and demonstrating that cancer survivors found new value in working.