bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-150 WHAT ARE WORK-RELATED PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL PROGNOSTIC FACTORS FOR DISABILITY IN CONSTRUCTION WORKERS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY BASED ON WORKER HEALTH SURVEILLANCE DATA
Authors: Van der Gragt Jack , Kuijer P Paul F M , Coenen Pieter , Arslan Ferhat 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
To select effective interventions to enhance work ability in construction workers with knee osteoarthritis (KO), knowledge of prognostic factors is needed given that occupational physicians see differences in sick leave episodes despite similar degrees of KO. This study assesses work-related physical and psychological prognostic factors over time in a cohort of construction workers with KO.

Methods
Based on worker health surveillance (WHS), 277 male construction workers diagnosed with KO and having at least two completed WHS over the time period 2000 – 2020 were selected. 80% of these workers had three or more completed WHS. The dependent variable was the Work (Dis)Ability Indicator showing the risk of work disability in the upcoming four years. This indicator was specifically developed for the Dutch construction industry and based on age, sickness absence, work ability index and musculoskeletal complaints. The score varies between 2%-79%. A score &gt;38% indicates that interventions are needed to prevent work disability. Generalized estimating equation was used for multivariable analyses after selecting relevant variables based on univariable analyses.

Results
Workers (mean age 54 years, BMI 28 kg/m2) worked mainly as bricklayers, carpenters or tilers. Clinically relevant prognostic factors were: personal (better self-rated health, lower BMI and younger age), physical (less kneeling/squatting during work) and psychological (sufficient payment, having supervisor support and less time pressure).

Discussion and conclusion
To support the work ability of workers with KO, modifiable work-related physical and psychological prognostic factors are reducing kneeling/squatting during work and securing sufficient payment, having supervisor support and reducing time pressure.
P-158 5P MEDICINE: A DIGITAL TWIN MODEL FOR HOSPITAL-BASED OCCUPATIONAL MEDICINE
Authors: Moussa Amen , Hayouni Mohamed Marouen , Rassas Ines , Merchaoui Irtyah , Amri Charfeddine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a major health problem among dentists. The application of “Digital-Twin” (DT) in the field of occupational medicine can bring significant benefits in terms of safety, health, and process efficiency. The aim is to create a DT model of dentists in silico, which will serve as an accurate virtual representation of occupational hazards incurred during routine dental procedures.

Methods and results
This is a digital modeling study of bio-mechanical patterns in dentists at the Monastir dental clinic, conducted in 2023 at the occupational medicine and pathology department. Information concerning medical history, clinics, work activity data, and bio-mechanical and environmental data were collected during medical visits and observations carried out in real-time activity and through a dental work simulation. An analysis of the dentist’s movements and bio-mechanical constraints was performed. We chose root canal treatment in endodontics as an example to initiate our modeling.

Discussion
The medical “digital twin” of dentists with MSDs is a digital representation of specific health status, focusing on aspects related to musculoskeletal disorders. It is a specialized application of the “digital twin” concept in the context of health problems related to the musculoskeletal system.

Conclusion
This study provides a digital decision-support tool for the prevention of MSDs in the workplace. This innovative approach can help preventionists, particularly occupational physicians, to improve working conditions, and promote the health and well-being of workers while optimizing their productivity.
P-160 IMPACTS ARISING FROM WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY RESEARCH FOR A GOVERNMENT AUTHORITY
Authors: Twin Jimmy 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Based on work by the Institute for Work & Health (Canada), a research impact framework was co-developed between the Institute for Safety, Compensation and Recovery Research (ISCRR, Australia) and WorkSafe Victoria (Australia) to measure and evaluate the impact of ISCRR research on policies, procedures and decision-making. This framework has now become a guiding strategy for ISCRR’s research translation activities.

Methods
This impact framework focusses on three main levels of research impact: i) research dissemination and diffusion, ii) informing decision-making, and iii) contribution towards societal change. All research carried out by ISCRR researchers for WorkSafe Victoria are now assessed for research impact.

Results
An audit of 35 ISCRR research projects completed between 2019-22 found that 77% (n=27) had achieved some form of impact which informed decision-making. These decision-making impacts ranged from informing internal strategies, treatment options and guidelines, and further research, as well as leading to the development of programs and initiatives. Two research projects demonstrated a connection to preliminary societal level impacts improving the outcome of injured workers. For the research projects without measured decision-making impacts (n=8), these were either too early in their impact journey, or there were difficulties in obtaining research impact metrics.

Discussion
The majority of ISCRR research for WorkSafe Victoria directly informs decision-making processes. The ability to measure these impacts relies on a proactive approach and champion identification.

Conclusion
Government authorities strive to make evidence-informed decisions backed by solid research. Research impact measurement and monitoring is important to demonstrate this process and identify opportunities to further impact progression.
P-163 THE INTEREST OF PERIODIC MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE FOR WORKERS IN THE AERONAUTICAL INDUSTRY
Authors: Ziedi Hiba , Bahri Ghada , Mersni Mariem , Mechergui Najla , Brahim Dorra , Said Hanene Ben , Youssef Imen , Ladhari Nizar 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The aeronautical industry (AI) provides employment for thousands of workers who are exposed to a variety of occupational hazards. Medical prevention is essential, based on periodic medical surveillance (PMS). The aim of our study was to determine the value of PMS for AI employees.

Methods
This is a descriptive cross-sectional study that interested workers of an AI who consulted the Department of Occupational Pathology in the context of PMS during the period from 1 January to 30 July 2023.

Results
During the study period eighty employees were seen. The mean age was 34±6 years with a sex ratio of 1.66. The most common job titles were quality controller (35%) and logistics agent (17%). The median job seniority was 5 [2; 9] years. The occupational constraints reported were postural constraints (57.1%), followed by exposure to organic solvents (28.6%). Personal protective equipment was worn by 33.2% of employees. Vision abnormalities were detected in 30% of employees. Biological abnormalities were noted in 23.6% of cases. Eighty-three per cent of employees were declared fit to continue their usual professional activity. A modified workstation was indicated for two workers. A decision on fitness to work, with compliance health rules and biological monitoring, was taken in 17% of cases.

Discussion
AI employees represent a young population with no risk factors. They are exposed to occupational hazards, including chemicals and noise. Hence the need for different investigations.

Conclusion
PMS can make a major contribution to prevention in this young population and health promotion overall.
O-095 MECHANISMS OF CARCINOGENICITY OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES: INTEGRATION OF THE MECHANISTIC EVIDENCE IN THE IARC MONOGRAPHS OVERALL EVALUATION IN THE LAST 10 YEARS
Authors: El Ghissassi Fatiha , Benbrahim-Tallaa Lamia , de Conti Aline , Madia Federica 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Over the years, mechanistic data has become critical to the understanding of human cancer hazards. Their increasing prominence was reflected in the 2019 revision of the IARC Monographs Preamble, which has placed mechanistic evidence, through the application of the key characteristics (KCs) of human carcinogens, alongside evidence for cancer in humans and experimental animals in the integration of evidence. Here, the evolution on the use of this information is described in the evaluation of occupational exposures.

Methods
Occupational exposures such as, styrene/styrene oxide, night shift work, 1,1,1-Trichloroethane, and recently occupational exposure as a firefighter and 2-bromopropane were examined based on the available studies, strength of the various KCs, and relevance of the associated endpoints across test systems.

Results
The evidence, as described by the 10 KCs, was supportive or strong and contributed substantially to the description of the mechanisms and the overall evaluation when the evidence from epidemiological studies was sufficient (for firefighting exposure), mainly limited or inadequate (for styrene oxide and 2-bromopropane), and it was sufficient for cancers in animal studies.

Discussion
Several KCs such as it is genotoxic, induces chronic inflammation and modulates receptor mediated effects or is immunosuppressive, for which the evaluation of mechanistic studies was consistent and coherent contributed to the overall evaluation of the occupational agents as IARC group 1 or Group 2A.

Conclusion
Mechanistic information is critical to the identification of carcinogenic hazard the KCs are a powerful tool that allow understanding further the mechanisms contributing to the carcinogenicity.
P-170 RAPIDLY PROGRESSIVE SILICOSIS IN INDUSTRIAL COBALT MINE WORKERS: TWO CASES FROM DR CONGO
Authors: Kitenge Joseph Pyana , Said-Hartley Qonita , Obadia Paul Musa , Mulaji Ida Kabeya , Ronsmans Steven , Jeebhay Mohamed , Nemery Benoit 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Silicosis remains the most important occupational lung disease worldwide. However, the condition is not often diagnosed, even in the Katangan Copperbelt, an area of intense mining in DR Congo.

Methods
We analysed the medical and occupational history of two patients with probable pneumoconiosis identified in a public hospital in Kolwezi, when preparing a case-control study into occupational respiratory disease.

Results
Patients X (23y) and Y (40y) were non-smoking men who had been admitted, in May 2023, with chronic cough, dyspnoea and chest pain and were treated for pulmonary tuberculosis (without bacteriological evidence in patient Y). Chest x-rays read according to the ILO International Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses showed diffuse small round opacities (r/q; 3/2) with larger opacities (B) in the left upper zone in addition to background ground glass opacities in patient X; and small opacities (q/q; 2/2) and a larger opacity (A) next to the left heart border in patient Y. Both men had worked for three and four years as ore-crushing operators in industrial surface mines, with unprotected exposure to mineral dust, presumably rich in silica. Patient X died in acute respiratory failure in June 2023.

Discussion
These two cases of severe pneumoconiosis after only short but presumably high exposures to silica-containing dust reveal a hitherto poorly documented existence of silicosis (including silico-proteinosis and rapidly progressive silicosis) in the mining basin of Kolwezi, the “world capital of cobalt”.

Conclusion
Efforts must be done to protect worker health and develop awareness of occupational diseases in the mining areas of the DR Congo.
P-171 EVALUATION OF NEEDLE SAFETY CONTEST PROGRAM TO REDUCE NEEDLE STICK INJURY IN A PRIVATE HOSPITAL, INDONESIA
Authors: Siloam Yosia Efa , Sabarguna Boy , Pakasi Trevino 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Needle Stick Injury (NSI) is still a safety issue for all health workers. Our responsibility to be able to work in a safer environment. This study aims to evaluate the Needle Safety Contest program in reducing NSI.

Methods
This study is an evaluation program that used mixed methods. Quantitative data is the number of NSI compared to four months before and after the contest. Qualitative will deepen the causative problem, using Focus Group Discussion (FGD).

Results
Outcome Needle Safety Contest program was a 50% reduction or improvement in NSI prevalence per population at risk, from 1.6% to 0.8%, during the four months preceding and four months after the contest.

Discussion
There was a 50% decrease in NSI prevalence after the contest period. From the FGD, the causative NSI are recapping insulin needles; careless when suturing wounds, preparing blood sample, infusing patients, and injecting drugs into patients; misplaced needle or put needle not properly; modifying needles not suitable for the use; lack procedure of suture care; perform actions not according to clinical authority; less senior supervision, especially when doing invasive procedure.

Conclusion
Needle Safety Contest program succeeded in reducing the NSI prevalence in the post-contest period. NSI causative factors are recapping insulin needles, usually among shift workers and new staff; careless actions when doing invasive procedures; needles that are not suitable for the use; lack procedure of suture care; needles used not ideal with the process; less senior supervision.
O-100 HYBRID WORKING IN BELGIUM: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES – A MIXED METHOD STUDY
Authors: Helskens Helga , Van Hulst Koen , Duchamps Tilda 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Covid-19 accelerated the shift to hybrid working, bringing opportunities and challenges. Current research mainly focused on exploring employees’ and employers’ experiences. This study aimed to combine both in order to develop best practice examples.

Methods
Quantitative research using a self-constructed online questionnaire on employees’ experience of hybrid working, including both closed-ended questions, based on findings from previous studies, and open-ended questions, to explore challenges and opportunities not previously highlighted in the literature. Qualitative research using semi-structured interviews with employers and HR managers from different industries to assess best practices. Topics for semi-structured interviews were based on literature and experiences of prevention advisors psychosocial aspects. Participation was voluntary and informed consent was obtained.

Results
Major results on the experience from 67 employees of 44 organizations (both private and public sectors) include: more flexibility, better work-life balance, decrease in stress and fatigue, increase in concentration and productivity. Main success factors according to employers and HR managers (n=12) are: a policy in line with the organizational culture, involving all employees, transparent communication, providing the necessary resources, agreements at the team level, agreements around efficient meetings, supporting managers and employees, and investing in connectedness. Best practice examples were developed.

Discussion
This study combined both employees’ and employers’ experiences and perspectives, leading to best practice practical examples. Future research could be conducted on a larger scale to explore more in-depth specific needs and challenges.

Conclusion
Hybrid working implies continuous monitoring of employee experience and its effectiveness. Policies should be adjusted consequently to the changing work and societal environment.
P-174 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SUPERVISORS’ WORK ENGAGEMENT AND THEIR SUPPORT TO SUBORDINATES: A TEXT MINING ANALYSIS IN A JAPANESE MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Authors: Sakai Kosuke , Nagata Tomohisa , Odagami Kiminori , Nagata Masako , Mori Takahiro , Mori Koji 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The aim of this study was to categorize the support provided by supervisors to their subordinates and ascertain the relationship between the degree of supervisors’ work engagement and the nature of their support.

Methods
We carried out a survey in a Japanese manufacturing company in 2022, utilizing open-ended questions regarding subordinates’ support. Text mining was employed to structure the responses into categories of supervisory support, which were subsequently contrasted based on different levels of supervisors’ work engagement.

Results
The study involved 729 participants, primarily male, in their 50s, employed in administrative roles, research and development, or production engineering. Supervisory support was structured into three categories (content of support, direction of support, and attitude toward support) and 11 subcategories. Frequently highlighted concepts included encouraging subordinates to take vacations and enhancing working conditions. Supervisors with high levels of work engagement showed a stronger focus on information retrieval, information transmission, and carefulness.

Discussion
Supervisors displaying high work engagement were found to engage in interactive communication and exhibit carefulness when providing support to their subordinates. Our findings elucidate the mechanisms of how work engagement contributes to supporting subordinates. However, due to the cross-sectional design and low response rate, these results should be generalized with caution.

Conclusion
Future studies are recommended to validate these findings across various industrial contexts and explore the causal links between supervisors’ work engagement and their support for subordinates.
P-182 A COMPARISON OF REFERRALS TO AN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT ACCORDING TO SOURCE
Authors: O’Mahony Eoin , Hogan Martin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational health nurses are often are the first point of contact for health related queries within a workplace and can initiate targeted health assessment where necessary. To my knowledge there is no empirical evidence to suggest that the presence of an occupational health nurse within an organisation facilitates early referral and management of work related illness. This study aims to determine whether the source of referral to the occupational health department is a relevant factor with regard to the early intervention and management of work related illnesses.

Methods
A content analysis of referral documents comparing occupational health nurse referrals and managerial referrals to an occupational health provider in Cork, Ireland, was performed over a 10 day period retrospectively. Data was anonymised and collated in an excel worksheet. Data was analysed using SPSS statistical software.“

Results
78 referrals for initial assessment in the occupational health department were identified. 28 referrals were excluded due to the absence of adequate referral documents. Referral source did not appear to be a significant variable with regard to whether the person was in work, the timing of referral since onset, the nature of illness, or whether the health issue was work related.

Discussion
This content analysis did not reveal any significant variation between nurse and managerial referrals to the occupational health department.

Conclusion
The findings of this study suggest that referrals to the occupational health department may be devolved to the appropriate line manager thereby allowing nurses to prioritise evidence based health interventions in an organisational setting.
P-183 PRE-EMPLOYMENT THROUGH QUESTIONNAIRE VERSUS DIRECT PHYSICAL CLINICAL ASSESSMENT
Authors: Sobeih (Shalabi) Omar 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Highly reliable organisations and companies are always interested to higher employees who are medically fit to be able to perform the required jobs.

Methods
There are standards for inclusion that include medical fitness. As such there are direct medical assessment versus questionnaire approaches.

Results and discussion
Experience will be shared that highlights the different pre-employment programs with emphasis on both the benefits and the drawbacks of the different approaches. Saudi Aramco and John’s Hopkins Pre-employment programs as examples will be shared. Both direct involvement and reviews will be highlighted. Medically fit employees will represent more engagement,more safety at work,more stability,highly productive,more chances for further training in addition to long time retaining of employment with more success and stability in the Organization.

Conclusion
The appropriate pre-employment medical will highlight the issues related to the different disabilities and the risk of jobs and as such will help in better planing for and accommodation of the disabled in the work force so the best of them and from them can be achieved.
O-110 THE EFFECT OF CLEANING PRODUCTS ON OCCUPANTS’ HEALTH
Authors: Salonen Heidi , Salthammer Tunga , Täubel Martin , Morawska Lidia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The use of household cleaning products exposes occupants to various potentially hazardous chemicals that can impact human health. These products often include surfactants, acids/bases, carcinogens like chloroform, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. In this review study, our objective is to summarize the effects of commonly used cleaning products on human health in occupational and non-occupational environments.

Methods
To conduct this literature review, we performed searches in Google Scholar and PubMed using 18 search terms and their combinations. The search was restricted to scientific articles published between 2013 and 2023.

Results and discussion
Scientific evidence indicates that the chemicals present in cleaning agents, as well as the reactions caused by agents interacting with surfaces, can have detrimental effects on human health. Individuals with close or frequent contact with cleaning products are particularly susceptible to these effects. For example, occupational exposure to cleaning and disinfectant products has been linked to an increased risk of asthma and rhinitis. Further, exposure to cleaning products during pregnancy or in the first years of life has been associated with persistent wheezing in early childhood.

Conclusion
Epidemiological studies provide evidence of the adverse effect of exposure to cleaning products and disinfectants on respiratory health. These effects are observed not only in adults with close or frequent contact to cleaning products in occupational settings but also in relation to common exposures at home, especially during early life. To mitigate these adverse health effects, it is recommended to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals by developing safer cleaning methods both in occupational and home settings.