bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SS60-01 THE FUTURE OF WORK: EMERGING RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING – OVERVIEW
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Kumar Simant 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The landscape of work has experienced remarkable shifts in recent years, catalysed by technological advancements, societal changes, and global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has brought forth new areas of focus at work, particularly concerning the physical, mental, and emotional health of the workforce. This paper explores the future of work in the light of changing health dynamics within the workplace.

Materials and Methods
The WHO Healthy Workplace model acts as a significant framework for shaping the future of work. It provides a holistic approach to fostering wellbeing and health in the workplace. The model is the bedrock of several initiatives undertaken at IndianOil to provide support and guidance to employees in dealing with physical, mental, and psychosocial issues. IndianOil initiatives such as ‘4R 4U’, ‘Paramarsh’, ‘Swadhyaya’, ‘Mission Vaccination’, ‘Pratidhwani’, ‘Tele-consultation’, ‘TB Free IndianOil Family’, ‘Dhadkan’, ‘i-DRIVE’ are aimed to foster a healthy work-life balance and to take care of physical, mental and psychosocial health.

Results
The GCHW recognized IndianOil health initiatives by adjudging IndianOil as the winner of ‘Global Healthy Workplace Award 2021’ in the large employer category. IndianOil efforts to create an enabling work environment have resulted in a workforce that is more productive, efficient, resilient, and skilled to handle difficult situations.

Conclusions
The future of work will witness a paradigm shift towards holistic health, recognizing that a healthy workplace is fundamental for organizational resilience and success. Embracing holistic health is not only beneficial for employees' wellbeing but also contributes significantly to increased productivity, creativity, and business sustainability.
SS60-04 FLEXIBLE WORKING - A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO ENHANCE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF THE WORKFORCE
Authors: Mishra Shriniket 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has radically reshaped our workplaces, with working from home and flexible work practices becoming more prevalent for office-based workers. Organizations worldwide are changing their policies and practices to include flexible work which allows employers and employees to negotiate working conditions that suit both, to support workers to maintain a healthy work-life integration, improving productivity and efficiency for businesses.

Materials and Methods
Best practice approaches to flexible work arrangements should be or have: 1 - Customisable – e.g. work from home, other offices, on different work schedules and at different times of the day. 2 - Hybrid – conscious and considered decisions are made to enable employees to work collectively and also individually at locations remote from each other. Healthy remote work arrangements ideally involve a hybrid model with a balance of work from home or another remote location, and a traditional workplace / office. 3 - Safe – flexible workers are both physically and psychologically safe at work. 4 - Diversity and Inclusion – flexible workers have different circumstances and unique needs meaning one size does not fit all. Flexible workers will include individuals from groups who may be more at risk of harm (e.g. workers with disability, workers from different cultures, gender, and workers exposed to violence at home, etc.)
Results and

Conclusions
Flexible working arrangements are the needs of future and emerging workforces, and it is beneficial for both employee and employers. It will improve productivity, reduce loss of time due to travel to workplaces, provide more work-life integration to employees, enhance wellbeing, reduce costs of employers related to office space, increase productivity etc.
SS61-01 WORK-RELATED RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS AND ASTHMA AMONG SALMON PROCESSING WORKERS IN A NORWEGIAN COUNTY
Authors: Fagernæs Carl Fredrik , Lauritzen Hilde Brun , Tjalvin Gro , Bang Berit E , Hassel Erlend , Svedahl Sindre Rabben 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Salmon processing workers have an increased risk of occupational asthma. Knowledge of disease burden, mechanisms and different phenotypes is sparse.

Materials and Methods
Patients with work-related respiratory symptoms working in the salmon processing industry were referred to the occupational medicine clinic during 2019 and 2023. The patients were examined using predefined tests including a bronchodilator response test, specific IgE to salmon and prick to prick skin prick test to raw salmon muscle, skin and viscera, and by indication non-specific bronchoprovocation test (NBT) and serial peak expiratory flow measurements (sPEF). Data on work tasks, symptoms and test results were retrospectively extracted from the patient journals. All cases were reviewed by two expert clinicians.

Results
Thirty-one patients were enrolled, among whom 25 had work-related lower respiratory symptoms. Seven patients (28%) had occupational asthma (OA) confirmed with sPEF, one had work-exacerbated asthma and two were diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The median latency from first exposure to asthma symptoms onset was six years. Among the seven OA cases, four were engaged in filleting operations, two in slaughtering and one in cleaning activities. Four of the patients were sensitized to salmon, while two had a negative NBT. Four of the patients had occupational rhinitis related symptoms, while one developed urticaria following contact with salmon and another reported flu-like symptoms.

Conclusions
Work-related asthma associated with salmon processing displays a heterogeneous clinical picture. sPEF of symptomatic patients appear to be crucial in making the diagnosis when NBT and allergy tests are negative. Both allergic and irritative mechanisms may be responsible.
SS61-02 WORK-RELATED ASTHMA OUTCOMES AND LUNG FUNCTION IN TANZANIAN SEAWEED HARVESTING AND PROCESSING WORKERS
Authors: Ngajilo Dorothy , Adams Shahieda , Jeebhay Mohamed 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Work in seafood harvesting and processing has been associated with work-related allergy and asthma, caused by sensitizers or irritants. However, the prevalence of airways disease in workers handling seaweed has not been previously reported.

Materials and Methods
A cross-sectional study involving 602 Zanzibari seaweed workers was conducted, using an interviewer-administered questionnaire accompanied by spirometry using a portable EasyOne spirometer according to ATS Guidelines.

Results
The mean age of this predominantly female (91%) study population was 50 years. Most of these workers (92%) used firewood for cooking, mainly indoors. Almost all workers were non-smokers and 9% had a family history of allergy. Workers were engaged in seaweed farming of Eucheuma spinosum species for an average period of 20 years. Ocular-nasal symptoms (44%) were more common than asthma-related symptoms, with 17% having an asthma symptom score ≥ 2. Work-related chest symptoms were present in 8% of workers, commonly ascribed to physical exertion as well as exposure to seaweed and dust particulate. Pulmonary function analysis (n=416) showed evidence of a high degree of airflow obstruction based on 18% of workers having an FEV1/FVC ratio &lt;0.70 and 31% with an FEV1 less than the lower limit of normal (LLN).

Conclusions
Airways disease and work-related asthma outcomes is common in Zanzibari seaweed farmers. While workers identified heavy manual work and handling seaweed as being responsible for their work-related symptoms, further research needs to focus on identifying the causative agents associated with these adverse respiratory health outcomes.
SS64-03 MICRO-RNA AND AUDIOLOGICAL VARIABLES IN THE EXPOSURE TO NOISE AND SOLVENTS
Authors: Sisto Renata , Moleti Arturo , Capone Pasquale , Tranfo Giovanna , Chiarella Pieranna 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Workers exposed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in combination to noise are more likely at risk of developing hearing loss.

Materials and Methods
Seventeen painters working in a shipyard were enrolled in this study. The exposure to the different VOCs was evaluated by measuring the VOC metabolite concentrations in the end-shift urine matrix. Next-generation sequencing analysis of the microRNAs was performed on blood samples. The polymorphism of two genes involved in the DNA repair, hOGG1 and XRCC1, was studied to individuate possible susceptibility indexes. The hearing functionality was assessed in terms of hearing threshold level (HL), and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs). The associations between the miRNAs and the HL or the DPOAE amplitude were studied. The multivariate sPLS-DA analysis was used as discrimination analysis between subjects with different hearing functionality.

Results
The audiological variables, both the HL and the DPOAEs, were found significantly associated to the microRNA expression levels. The HL increase was mainly associated to the downregulation of miR-122-5p and miR-195-5p whilst the DPOAE level reduction was associated to the upregulation of miR-206 and to the downregulation of miR-497-5p and miR-92b-5p. The homozygous and heterozygous variants of the gene hOGG1 were found disadvantaged with respect to the wild-type, as regards the risk of hearing impairment due to exposure to VOCs.

Conclusions
The study shows how molecular biology could help in finding the molecular basis of the damage development in workers exposed to noise and VOCs. The study of susceptibility indexes could help in a personalised approach to the prevention of professional diseases.
SS64-05 AI-DRIVEN HEARING LOSS DETECTION, PREDICTION, AND PREVENTION: REIMAGINING THE FUTURE OF HEARING HEALTHCARE
Authors: Debacker James Riley , McMillan Garnett P , Konrad-Martin Dawn 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Current efforts to identify changes in hearing rely on somewhat arbitrary hearing shift definitions and scales. These scales often have very nuanced requirements and it is difficult to communicate their meaning in plain language to those outside of hearing science, including employers, physicians, employees, and patients. Even beyond this problem, there are also a number of limitations to these application-specific grading scales related to their development and limitations of audiological equipment.
To address these limitations, our group has created a flexible algorithm-based tool that generates patient-specific ranges of acceptable hearing variation. This allows for simple interpretation of auditory monitoring regardless of setting to speed up the identification of potential hearing damage. Additionally, similar processes can be used to forecast the amount of hearing loss that will be caused. It is our hope that these two tools can assist in the rapid and accurate prediction of hearing loss and detection of hearing changes to prevent future hearing losses across sectors.
SS65-02 REDUCING SOCIAL INEQUALITIES - IMPROVING ACCESS TO HEALTH TREATMENT AND CARE FOR VULNERABLE WORKERS LIVING AND WORKING IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors: Green Janice 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In 2008, the report of the WHO Commission on the Social Determinants of Health recognized that employment and working conditions are social determinants of health; that they provide well-being and economic stability, and that although employment and work can favour sustainable human development, they can also contribute to health inequalities.

Materials
In Jamaica there are over 330 health centres that offer free of cost services to patients such as basic maternal and child health nutrition, family planning, immunization, health education curative dental and pharmacy. These overcrowded health centres are mainly used by vulnerable individuals, some of whom are low-income workers. In the Jamaica Gleaner article of August 16 2023, the Jamaica Minister of Health and Wellness said that only 47% of equipment in public health sector is fully functional.

Method
To assist in retooling of equipment in the public health sector, the Inter-American Development Bank in 2019 approved an investment grant to upgrade primary healthcare facilities in the catchment areas of three priority hospitals; and provide support for the Health Systems Strengthening for the Prevention and Care Management of Non-communicable Diseases Programme.

Results
In 2016 the ‘Reducing Waiting Time Initiative’ that was piloted in seven Jamaican hospitals and eight health centres through support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), in response to overcrowding at hospital emergency departments, has now been expanded to other facilities.

Conclusion
The modernization of public health infrastructure in developing countries will require government policy and legislations, long term financial commitment and capacity strengthening support, from international donor agencies.
SS66-02 VALIDATION OF THE ‘COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME QUESTIONNAIRE’ (CVS-Q) INSTRUMENT AMONG ADMINISTRATIVE WORKERS IN LIMA, PERU (2019)
Authors: Huapaya Yessenia , Cornejo John Astete 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is currently considered an emerging public health problem due to the increase in economic activities associated with the use of data display screens (DDS). However, the lack of an instrument to identify the early symptoms and signs, can originate a prolonged exposure to the use of DDS and increase the prevalence of symptoms.

Material and Methods
A validation study incorporating content and discriminant validation of the CVS-Q instrument was carried out on administrative sector workers, susceptible to presenting risk factors associated with CVS in a company in Lima, Peru. The sample size consisted of 181 workers (91workers with risk factors for CVS and 90 workers without risk factors).

Results
The content validity was determined using the Aiken's method with average values greater than 0.7 for the coherence and clarity of the questions. The discriminant validity, an area under the ROC curve of 82.5% was obtained with a sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 89% for distinguishing between administrative and operative workers. Reliability was analysed using Cronbach's alpha method resulting in a value of 0,87 indicating high internal consistency. The Test-Retest reliability analysis for reproducibility was significant with a value of r=0,715.

Conclusions
The CVS-Q instrument demonstrated discriminant validity reaching high levels of sensitivy and specificity, being specific for measuring exposure to risk factors for CVS. The reliability of the instrument was confirmed through statistical Test-Retest analysis and the calculation of Cronbach's alpha. In conclusion, the study validates the CVS-Q among administrative workers.
SS67-01 HEALTH EFFECTS OF ORGANIC DUST AMONG FARMERS AND OTHER EXPOSED WORKERS
Authors: Stokholm Zara Ann , Schlünssen Vivi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Organic dust is a mixture of particles originating from plants, animals, and microorganisms. Exposure to high levels of organic dust is common in many industries including but not restricted to farmers, other agricultural workers and waste workers. Apart from that, organic dust is ubiquitous in the environment with a decreasing gradient from livestock farming to large cities. Organic dust is a well-established risk factor for a range of diseases and conditions including hypersensitivity pneumonitis, toxic alveolitis, asthma, bronchitis, and COPD.
Furthermore, organic dust exposure is suspected to contribute to the burden of cardiovascular disease. It is still debated whether organic dust exposure is a risk factor or a preventive factor for lung cancer. Despite emerging evidence of possible beneficial effects of organic dust exposure early in life in relation to inflammatory disease including asthma, inflammatory bowel disease and type one diabetes, work-related organic dust exposure is still primarily a major health risk worldwide. The impact of timing of organic exposure as well as the relation between organic dust exposure (levels as well as diversity of microorganisms) and the human microbiome will be discussed, and preventive strategies will be touch upon. Note: As it is an overview, the headings, “Introduction” “Materials and Methods”, “Results” and “Conclusions” are not used.
SS68-01 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH MONITORING OF WORKERS EXPOSED, OR WHO HAVE BEEN EXPOSED, TO CRYSTALLINE SILICA
Authors: Hulo Sebastien , Paris Christophe 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Following the publication of the French National Agency for Safety, for Food, Environment and Work (Anses) collective expertise report ‘Dangers, expositions et risques relatifs à la silice cristalline’ in 2019, the Société Française de Santé au Travail, in partnership with the Société de Pneumologie de Langue Française, the Société Française de Radiologie, and the Société Nationale Française de Médecine Interne, wished to draw up recommendations for good practice on the medical survey of workers exposed, or who have been exposed, to crystalline silica (CS).

Materials and Methods
These recommendations for good practice were drafted using the ‘Recommendation for Clinical Practice’ method recommended by the French National Authority for Occupational Health (HAS).

Results
These statements have made it possible to describe the occupational situations currently exposing workers to CS, and the diseases likely to be caused or aggravated by exposure to CS, to discuss the arguments including exposure characteristics currently available for proposing or not screening for each of the diseases caused by exposure to CS, the tools or examinations recommended for such screening, in particular the use of chest X-rays, to present the objectives and the schedule of the medical monitoring, the methods of primary prevention and finally to determine the research priorities to be promoted to optimize medical monitoring of populations exposed, or having been exposed, to CS.

Conclusions
This best practice recommendation has been awarded the HAS label, and are now progressively used in practice by occupational health services.
SS68-04 RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE FRENCH SOCIETY FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH FOR ASSESSING THE MEDICAL FITNESS FOR WORK OF PEOPLE WITH EPILEPSY
Authors: Fassier Jean-Baptiste , Boulogne Sébastien , Fantoni-Quinton Sophie 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
People with epilepsy may have trouble keeping a job. Certain types of work (working at heights, using machinery, helping dependents, etc.) present risks of accident when the seizures occur. Driving restrictions vary in different countries. Medical fitness for work must be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and not according to general standards. With a view to harmonising the practices of occupational physicians, the French Society for Occupational Health has developed recommendations.
Method: A taskforce drew up a checklist of parameters to be taken into account in assessing each individual situation. A table was proposed to characterise the risks associated with certain dangerous work situations, with an algorithm to summarise the medical-professional situation. The recommendations were sent to a group of reviewers for their comments.

Results
The characteristics of epilepsy which make it possible to assess the risk of seizures and the repercussions in the workplace are the syndromic framework, semiological elements of seizures, markers of disease activity, and comorbidities. Favourable factors are also identified. Workplace factors that may favour decompensation from epilepsy include working hours and workload. Occupational situations with a risk of trauma include those involving falls, working at heights, jobs requiring constant vigilance and dangerous machinery.

Discussion and Conclusion
It is expected that the recommendations will help occupational physicians in assessing individual situations so that people with epilepsy have the best possible chance of keeping their job without risk to their health and persons in their environment.
SS69 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY SECTOR IN TANGIER (NORTHERN MOROCCO)
Authors: El Hadri Mohamed 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The automotive industry is a booming activity in Morocco, particularly in the Tangier region in northern Morocco. This activity is fraught with many risks, both physical and mental.
This session offers a review of the main studies carried out in the region within the automotive industry sector to characterize the occupational health aspect of the workers of this recent activity in Morocco. This session will permit us to have a vision of the main occupational health risks in the automotive industry sector, to test the effectiveness of the means of prevention available, and to open the debate to share our experience with those of other industrialized countries.
SS69-02 MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY IN TANGIER
Authors: Ghailan Tarik 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) constitute the leading occupational pathology throughout the world and constitute a real occupational health problem. The automotive industry in Morocco is booming, particularly in the Tangier region. The objective of our study was to evaluate MSDs among workers in the automotive industry sector in Tangier, Morocco.

Materials and Methods
This study took place in 2023 and interested workers belonging to three industrial units - one manufacturing car cables, a second manufacturing car cushions, and a third manufacturing car mats. The assessment of MSDs was carried out using the Nordic Questionnaire.

Results
The prevalence of MSDs was high within the three units, particularly that of car cable manufacturing where the part most affected was the wrist, particularly during cable insertion operations within the mold. In the carpet manufacturing unit, it was rather lower back and back pain that dominated, particularly during the stapling phase. Finally, within the cushions manufacturing unit, shoulder pain was the most severe, particularly during the cushion quilting operation.

Conclusions
The results obtained affirm the subsequent findings and impose the need for the implementation of a national plan for the prevention of MSDs, particularly within the automotive industry units. The role of occupational physicians remains essential in the prevention of this pathology.