bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-506 METHODS USED TO DEVELOP A CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE STUDY PROTOCOL EXAMINING OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES AMONG SYRIAN REFUGEE AGRICULTURAL WORKERS
Authors: Habib Rima R , Rohlman Diane S , Fakih Lina , Estephan Christina , Nuwayhid Iman 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Refugees from war-torn neighboring Syria are often engaged in agricultural practices in Lebanon. Little is known about their multiple exposures to workplace hazards and psychosocial stressors. Our objective is to describe the methods used to develop a research protocol and tools that are culturally appropriate for this vulnerable population.

Methods
An iterative process was used to learn from stakeholders and intermediary organizations in Beqaa, Lebanon. Interviews and field observations identified work practices, exposures, and living conditions that directly impact the study design and assessment tools.

Results
Fifty stakeholders (employers, farm workers, NGOs, government officials) were interviewed or participated in focus group discussions. We learned that preventive spraying using a mixture of pesticides is common practice in greenhouses, where intensive frequent pesticide application occurs following a preset schedule that overlaps with harvest time. This puts at risk men who apply pesticides and women who harvest recently treated crops, without using personal protective equipment. Only Syrian refugees perform this hazardous work. Moreover, Syrian workers, who live in precarious conditions in nearby informal tented settlements, often experience discrimination and receive low pay without social protection.

Discussion
Our findings informed our decision to focus on Syrian refugee agricultural workers in greenhouses and adapt our assessment tools (exposure to pesticides, heat stress, and social stressors) and data collection plan (morning and afternoon shifts) to the specificities of greenhouse agricultural practices in Beqaa.

Conclusion
Although such preliminary work is crucial to develop culturally appropriate and feasible methods for evaluation of workplace exposures in high-risk populations, this information is seldom described.
P-509 ASSESSMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS IN FARMING
Authors: Dallagi Amani , Benchrifa Emna , Baraketi Emna , Khouja Nihel , Ismail Saloua , Hsinet Jihene , Benzarti Aida 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Pesticides are chemical products widely used, mainly in agriculture. They can be responsible for health effects, whether acute or chronic. Our aim is to qualitatively assess pesticide exposure and its impact on workers’ health.

Methods
This is a descriptive, cross-sectional epidemiological survey of 54 employees in 4 agricultural enterprises.

Results
The study population is relatively old (49 ± 7 years) and almost exclusively male. Average seniority was 23 ± 10 years. The most exposed positions were those of multi-skilled workers (35 employees) and drivers (12 employees).The inventory of pesticide products handled revealed 67 active ingredients of varying effects, risks and severity. Working conditions are generally unsatisfactory. Lack of individual and collective preventive measures, poor general hygiene and non-compliance with handling and waste management rules are at the top of the list.Exposure assessment is summarized in the form of three levels of risk, taking into account the mode, frequency and duration of exposure. The medical study revealed the importance of chronic toxic effects linked to pesticide exposure (respiratory, cutaneous and neuropsychic). In particular, organic psycho-syndrome was found in 7 employees.

Discussion
The level of risk associated with pesticide used is high as exposure increases. However, the lack of adequate preventive measures is an aggravating factor.

Conclusion
The adoption of a prevention strategy is therefore an extreme necessity in order to reduce the level of risk and limit the health, environmental and socio-economic impact of pesticides.
O-338 THE SECOND ITALIAN CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH: RESULTS FROM A SAMPLE OF IMMIGRANT WORKERS
Authors: Buresti Giuliana , Rondinone Bruna Maria , Boccuni Fabio , Valenti Antonio , Monti Carlo , Iavicoli Sergio , Persechino Benedetta 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Work is the main driver of international migration. In 2022 there were about 5 million foreign citizens living in Italy; working age were over 3 million and around 2 million were employed, mainly in agriculture, construction and personal services. Legislative Decree 81/08 calls for specific attention to “workers from other countries”, both in the risk assessment process and in training activities, due to their vulnerability. INAIL conducted the Insula surveys (2014, 2019) aimed at investigating Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) perceptions, emerging risks and levels of awareness of legislation on a large sample of workers, including also foreign workers.

Methods
The sample consisted of 206 foreign workers extracted from 2019 Insula dataset. Questionnaire was administered using Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI) methodology and consisted of closed-ended questions organized in 8 sections.

Results
60% are male and 36% come from EU countries, mainly Eastern Europe; 56% live in Northern Italy. Around 65% of the sample is aware of Italian OSH legislation and 45% attended training courses on OSH issues. 81% believe having legal obligations for OSH and 76% are able to fulfill them. Furthermore, on a 1-5 scale they feel mostly exposed to biomechanical and ergonomic risk (2.6), work-related stress (2.4) and physical risks (2.2).

Discussion
The inclusion of foreign workers in the survey allows us to gather useful information through the analysis of risk perception of this group of workers.

Conclusion
Deeper analysis will contribute to better identify needs in the OSH protection to implement preventive instruments, in consideration of peculiarities with reference to their vulnerability.
O-344 KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES CHEMICAL RISKS AMONG OPERATING ROOMS STAFF IN TUNISIAN HOSPITALS
Authors: Bechrifa Emna , Baraketi Emna , Khouja Nihel , Ismail Saloua , Hsinet Jihen , Benzarti Aida , Amairi Oumaima 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Chemicals are extensively used in operating rooms (OR). Our aim was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices of OR staff concerning chemical risks (CR).

Methods
Descriptive, cross-sectional, multicenter survey conducted for OR staff in 2023 over one-month period using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire.

Results
Eighty participants were included, predominantly female (67%) with a median age of 33 years and job tenure of 7 years. They were mainly scrub-nurses (42%) and surgical instrumentalists (33%). Participants gave inadequate answers to questions regarding aldehydes’ uses and their effects in 36% and 63% of cases respectively. Additionally, 3% of participants affirmed the possibility of substituting glutaraldehyde with peracetic acid. Moreover, 75% were unaware of quaternary ammoniums’ uses, and 70% disregarded their health effects. They reported never ensuring proper ventilation of OR in 27% and never checking chemical labels in 24%. They answered correctly 5% of questions related to hazard pictograms in 5%. They stated not verifying chemical compatibility during storage in 41% and 79% did not know proper course of action in case of formaldehyde spills. Participants reported they had no prior training on CR in ORs in 95% of cases, that they had no access to informative posters about CR in 91% of cases and that they had not undergone occupational health check-up since being hired in 88% of cases.

Discussion
We highlighted significant knowledge gaps and inadequate and worrisome practices related to CRs in the OR.

Conclusion
We emphasize the urgent need for targeted training programs and comprehensive safety interventions in ORs related to CRs.
P-518 INVESTIGATING RISK PERCEPTION AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS OF ONCOLOGICAL UNITS EXPOSED TO HANDLING ANTINEOPLASTIC DRUGS
Authors: Ursini Cinzia Lucia , Di Tecco Cristina , Omodeo-Salè Emanuela , Petyx Marta , Jemos Costantino , Camera Cristina , Beltramini Sabrina , Gaggero Daniela , Rigamonti Nicoletta , Zorzetto Giorgia , Maiolino Piera , Filippo Pasquale Di , Baldo Paolo , Martinello Valeria , Mattia Andrea Di , Esposito Chiara , Nardulli Patrizia , Laforgia Mariarita , Persechino Benedetta , Cavallo Delia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
This study aimed to assess the risk perception among healthcare workers regarding occupational exposure to antineoplastic drugs (AD). Risk perception involves subjective judgments about risk characteristics and severity, influencing how people handle hazards they care about.

Methods
A survey was conducted on 229 healthcare workers handling AD. They used a 1 to 5 Likert scale to rate their risk perception, covering awareness of risk severity, preventive measures, fear of illness or injury, and personal exposure to health and safety risks. The survey also explored perceptions of traditional risks and those linked to AD exposure.

Results
Results showed that approximately 63% of workers feel exposed to “chemical risk,” and 65% to “work-related stress” (rated 4 or 5 on the scale). Around 66% of workers believe they understand the extent of the risk, and 67% are aware of health risks associated with AD exposure. Approximately 32% and 38% of workers fear getting injured or sick, respectively. Moreover, 71% claimed to be informed about safety measures against AD exposure risks, with 50% believing these measures are sufficient to protect their health.

Discussion
The study emphasizes the significant impact of risk perception on healthcare workers’ awareness and adoption of safety measures when handling AD. While many workers acknowledge the risks and the importance of preventive measures, there are differences in their perceptions of the measures’ adequacy.

Conclusions
Further exploration of the relationship between risk perception levels, safety behaviour and impacts on health can offer valuable insights for improving occupational health and safety protocols in healthcare settings.
O-346 ASSOCIATION BETWEEN PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO LONG-WORKING HOURS AND STROKE SUBTYPES IN THE CONSTANCES COHORT
Authors: Fadel Marc , Sembajwe Grace , Li Jian , Leclerc Annette , Pico Fernando , Schnitzler Alexis , Roquelaure Yves , Descatha Alexis 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Long working hours (LWH) was suggested to be associated with stroke in recent studies, though few have distinguished stroke subtypes even though physiopathological mechanisms are different. We examined the associations between LWH and ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke while adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods
Using data from the French cohort CONSTANCES including participants from 2012 to 2018, we retrieved sociodemographic and cardiovascular risk factors from baseline questionnaires and initial health examinations. LWH were defined as self-reported working time ≥10 hours daily for at least 50 days per year. Incident cases of stroke were collected using International Classification of Disease codes recorded in the National health data system. Multinomial logistic models were computed to assess associations between LWH and stroke while adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors.

Results
There were 160,751 participants who were free from stroke at baseline, among which exposure to LWH ≥10 years was reported by 20,723 participants, and 190 incident cases of stroke, including 134 ischemic and 56 hemorrhagic. Exposure to LWH was associated with an elevated odds of ischemic stroke [OR=1.61(1.04-2.49)] and hemorrhagic stroke [OR=2.50(1.38-4.53)] in unadjusted model, whereas in adjusted models, only the LWH association with hemorrhagic stroke remained significant [aOR=1.92(1.01-3.09)].

Conclusions
As reported in the literature, workers exposed to LWH had an increased risk of stroke, though it only remained significant for hemorrhagic stroke after adjustments. Differences in direct and indirect biological pathways and lack of power in the ischemic subgroup may explain these results. Further studies on the impact of mediating and effect measure modifying factors are needed.
O-351 IDENTIFYING HARMFUL ALCOHOL USE IN THE SWEDISH WORKFORCE
Authors: Olivia Thern Emelie Ingegard , Blindow Katrina , Jonsson Erica , Brulin Emma , Landberg Jonas , Bodin Theo , Elling Devy L 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Alcohol consumption can result in great harm and cause tremendous expenses. Identifying at-risk groups and informing effective prevention is therefore imperative. The current study aims to identify what professions/branches in Sweden are more likely to report harmful use of alcohol and to investigate to what extend this can be attributed to individual and work-related characteristics, as well as how these trends have developed over time.

Methods
A repeated cross-sectional study was conducted including all participants of the survey of Health, Work Environment, and Lifestyle Habits between 2010-2022 (n= 310 000), collected by an occupational health service company (Feelgood). The survey contained information on alcohol use, profession/branch, physical and psychosocial work environment, mental health, and other relevant factors.

Results
Preliminary results suggest that individuals working in the restaurant and construction sectors are at the highest prevalence of harmful alcohol consumption. Several common characteristics relating to health, lifestyle, and work environment were found.

Discussion
Although several preventive efforts have been implemented with regard to harmful alcohol in the workforce, some professions remain at a high risk. The Covid-19 Pandemic appeared to have limited effect on harmful alcohol use, especially among professions where distance work was possible.

Conclusion
We identified groups in the Swedish workforce where harmful alcohol use is highly prevalent and to what extend modifiable risk factors contribute to this problematic behavior. This information can be used to target alcohol use screening programs and for public health interventions.
P-535 CANNABIS USE AMONG TEMPORARY AGENCY WORKERS: PREVALENCE AND PERCEPTIONS
Authors: Van Kerckhove Zeen , Braeckman Lutgart , Versée Mathieu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Cannabis is in Belgium the most commonly used illicit drug, with 7.4% of employees using cannabis. This study examined the prevalence of cannabis use among temporary agency workers (TAWs), as well as their perception of the impact of cannabis use on occupational safety.

Methods
Every TAW who underwent a pre-employment health assessment was eligible for this cross-sectional study. The socio-demographic characteristics and the prevalence of cannabis use were determined. A Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test was used to investigate whether there was a difference in the perceptions about cannabis use and occupational safety between the cannabis users and non-users.

Results
During the study period of 2 months 192 (80,3%) of the 239 TAW’s completed the questionnaire. The average age of the TAWs was 33.3 years and 76% were males. 60 (31.3%) TAWs had used cannabis at least once in the past 12 months, and 42 (21.9%) used it 2 times a month or more frequently. Cannabis use was more prevalent among males (37.7% vs. 10.9%) and younger workers (39.2% when ≤ 36 years). 85% Of the cannabis users vs 25% of the non-users believed that cannabis use had no impact on occupational safety (p &lt; 0.001).

Discussion
Cannabis use was about 4 times more frequent in temporary agency workers than in the general working population (31,3% vs 7,4%). The cannabis-users (85%) perceived cannabis use more often as not a threat for their occupational safety than the non-users (25%).

Conclusion
There is need for further research on the impact of cannabis use on occupational safety.
P-536 ENHANCING WORKPLACE HEALTH: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO SMOKING PREVENTION AND CESSATION
Authors: Debbagh Asmaa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Smoking is a leading, preventable cause of death, claiming approximately 8 million lives yearly, per the WHO. This study presents a comprehensive approach for implementing smoking prevention and cessation programs in workplaces. Our program’s objectives include raising awareness of smoking risks in professional settings, facilitating self-assessment of tobacco addiction among employees, and promoting smoking cessation with effective guidance.

Methods
This research, spanning from 2011 to 2022, encompassed a diverse sample of over 2,000 individuals grappling with various forms of addiction, including tobacco, cannabis, alcohol, opioids, and more. To focus on this intervention, we narrowed our scope to the 461 patients exclusively addicted to cigarettes. Each patient underwent an individual assessment employing the Fagerström questionnaire to determine their level of addiction.

Results
Among the 461 exclusive tobacco smokers: - Gender distribution revealed 61.1% men and 38.9% women. - The predominant age group was 36 to 50 years. - Remarkably, 71.5% achieved complete smoking cessation after one to four acupuncture sessions, while 7.5% reduced daily consumption from two to three packs to one to three cigarettes. - 6.5% faced challenges in maintaining cessation, 3.2% relapsed, and 11.3% withdrew. - Fagerström test results indicated 65% had high tobacco dependence, 25% moderate dependence, and 10% low dependence.

Conclusion
Implementing workplace-based smoking cessation and prevention programs addresses substantial public health concerns while offering significant economic and societal benefits. These initiatives represent a crucial step toward mitigating smoking’s devastating impact and enhancing overall workplace well-being.
O-352 RISK OF OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES DUE TO ACCIDENTS AMONG NATIVE VS IMMIGRANT POPULATIONS IN SWEDEN
Authors: Elling Devy , Bodin Theo , Honkaniemi Helena , Kreshpaj Bertina , Davis Letitia , Nevriana Alicia , Matilla-Santander Nuria , Wegman David H , Wadensjö Eskil , Kjellberg Katarina , Luleå Nina Lazarcyk-Bilal , Thern Emelie 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Risks of occupational injuries due to accidents (OIA) are typically higher among immigrants than natives, yet no studies have explored the determinants of these differential risks in the Swedish context. This study aims to identify differences in risks of OIA and their determinants among immigrants relative to native Swedes.

Methods
A repeated cross-sectional prospective study was conducted for all gainfully employed individuals in Sweden between 2003–2020 (approximately 4.5 million individuals annually). Information on sociodemographic factors, migration status, reason for migration and generation, duration of residence, job sector, employment status, as well as OIA and severity estimated by the number of sickness absence days were obtained from nationwide registers.

Results
Preliminary results showed that first-generation immigrants have higher OIA risks and severity than second-generation immigrants and natives. Differences were partly explained by reason for migration and duration of residence. Job-related factors are now being examined.

Discussion
Despite safety improvements in workplaces, immigrants remain disproportionately vulnerable to OIA in the workplace, likely due to immigrants having more hazardous working conditions that lead to higher OIA rates than natives.

Conclusion
Identifying risk factors for OIA and how their differences by migration status, as well as job-related factors could contribute to improvements in policy and safety measures in the workplace and reduction of health inequalities among the working population.
O-353 REALIZATION OF WHO AIMS FOR HEALTHIER POPULATIONS RELATED TO OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors: Bukhtiyarov Igor , Kovalevskiy Evgeny , Zemlyakova Svetlana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
An example scorecard was developed by WHO to provide an overview of the “ideal” indicator values that countries should aim to achieve. Occupational health is among these indicators.

Methods
Based on the data of the Federal Service for Labor and Employment, a review of the achievement of the proposed indicators in the field of occupational health was carried out.

Results
The working-age population in Russia in 2022 was 83.23 million, 71.97 million were employed in the formal sector of the economy. Sufficient part of the population was still employed in the informal sector. 1.1% of workers had working week more than 51 hours. About 10 million Russians worked in areas with harmful working conditions. 2.0 out of 100000 people of working age died from injuries due to occupational risks and 1 (less than) out of 100000 died from occupational diseases.

Discussion
Data on occupational injuries can be considered quite reliable. But considering the number of jobs in harmful and dangerous working conditions there is still underestimation of the occupational diseases, primarily those with a long latent period.

Conclusion
Estimation of the prevalence of occupational diseases is an essential factor determining the planning of measures to protect the health of the working population. Currently, work is underway to integrate this indicator into the intensively developing unified state information system in the field of healthcare and vertically integrated medical information systems for certain types of diseases which will include data not only related the patient’s health statute, but also employment history and working conditions.
O-357 OCCUPATIONAL ACCIDENTS AND DISEASES IN ZIMBABWE: THE ECONOMIC BURDEN- 2009 TO 2018
Authors: Magada Elingah Yeukai 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The paper is an analysis of the economic losses due to the burden of occupational injuries, diseases and fatalities in Zimbabwe from 2009 to 2018.

Methods
Quantitative comparative analysis of the burden of occupational injuries, diseases and fatalities in Zimbabwe vis a vis related- costs from 2009 to 2018 using data from the Accident Prevention and Workers’ Compensation Insurance Fund claims.

Results
On average there were 4921 occupational injuries and diseases and 77 fatalities recorded annually. This translated to an average cost of USD 9,419,691-20 in total claims to the fund (0.054% of the annual GDP). These costs include lump sum and periodic payouts to affected workers, medical and rehabilitation expenses, related travel and subsistence payments for medical visits or reviews, and funeral grants for fatalities. However, there are other hidden costs that are not covered under the Fund, such as lost productivity/business and goodwill, investigation time, repair and replacement costs, et cetera. Furthermore, these are statistics from the formal economy while the informal economy statistics remain unrecorded (informal economy constitutes over 70% of the economy) hence the costs are relatively higher.

Discussion and conclusion
Despite the missing data from the larger informal sector- the unreported and uninsured losses still have an impact on Zimbabwe’s economy as they not only affect enterprises’ capacity utilization but are often paid for directly from the enterprises’ bottom line profits, which ultimately affects the country’s GDP. It is imperative for the government and enterprises to prioritise and invest in safety and health as a key business and economic driver.