bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SS35-03 NAVIGATING THE RETURN TO THE OFFICE: AN ECOLOGICAL MOMENTARY ASSESSMENT OF STRESS, WORK PLEASURE AND RELATEDNESS IN OLDER OFFICE WORKERS
Authors: Wiezer Noortje , Peijen Roy , Niks Irene , van Zwieten Marianne , Hengel Karen Oude 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased remote work and hybrid working is becoming common post-pandemic. This study’s objective is to observe how work location (home or office) affects the daily well-being (i.e., daily perceived stress and daily work pleasure) of older-aged office workers (aged ≥ 45), particularly regarding the role of relatedness with co-workers.

Materials and Methods
Using a smartphone-based ecological assessment survey, we measured work location, daily perceived stress, work pleasure, and relatedness among 109 older-aged office workers from a Dutch organization (N total = 201). This took place during the first week of each month from April to June 2022 (e.g. directly after post-governmental measure relaxation). At baseline, demographic data like sex and job tenure for control variables were collected. Multilevel regression analyzed daily responses to explore how work location, relatedness, and their interaction impact daily well-being.

Results
The work location (home or on-site) on a given day does not significantly affect either daily perceived stress or daily work pleasure, but does positively affect relatedness. Relatedness is associated with reduced daily perceived stress levels and enhanced daily work pleasure. There is no significant interaction between relatedness and work location regarding well-being outcomes for older office workers. Conversely, an additional supportive analysis on younger office workers (aged &lt; 45, N = 87) demonstrates that working on-site does indeed exhibit stronger relatedness effects than remote work.

Conclusions
The role of relatedness with co-working is important for hybrid workers for younger workers, but seems to be less important for older workers.
SS35-04 THE EFFECT OF WORKING FROM HOME ON SOCIAL ISOLATION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND THE MODERATING EFFECT OF AGE
Authors: Bosma Esmee , Loef Bette , van Oostrom Sandra H , Proper Karin I 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were suddenly forced to work from home. Home workers might have felt more socially isolated than location workers, and this phenomenon might be more pronounced with advancing age. This study investigated the longitudinal association between working from home and feelings of social isolation, and the moderating effect of age in this.

Materials and Methods
Longitudinal data of 41,147 Dutch workers from 19 online questionnaire rounds of the Lifelines COVID-19 cohort were used (March 2020-January 2022). Social isolation was assessed with questions from the UCLA Loneliness Scale resulting in a sum score (0-6). Negative Binomial Generalized Estimating Equations were used to study the association between work situation and feelings of social isolation. An interaction between work situation and age was added to study the moderating effect of age.

Results
Home workers scored on average 56% higher on social isolation than location workers (incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 1.559, 95% CI = 1.529-1.590). Hybrid workers scored 17% higher on social isolation than location workers (IRR = 1.172, 95% CI = 1.145-1.119). There was no moderating effect of age on the association between working from home and social isolation (IRR = 1.000, 95% CI = 0.998-1.002).

Conclusions
Home and hybrid workers experienced more feelings of social isolation than location workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, but this relation did not differ by age. Since many workers will continue to (partly) work from home, more research about relevant strategies to prevent social isolation among home workers is recommended.
SS36-03 OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES ON INFORMAL E-WASTE PROCESSING IN GHANA: ERGONOMICS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS
Authors: Salmen-Navarro Acran , Martin Bernard J , D’Souza Clive , Acquah Augustine A , Fobil Julius N 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Agbogbloshie in Accra Ghana is one of the major e-waste recycling hubs in the world. Recycling processes at this site are informal, rudimentary, and performed with bare hands and manual tools. This presentation will review findings on physical work exposures and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) at Agbogbloshie.

Materials and Methods
Field-study to observationally assess physical work exposures and a modified Nordic Questionnaire to assess MSD complaints in 23 e-waste workers.

Results
Work time (WT) per day varied between days and worker categories, namely, collectors (345.1±77.3 mins), dismantlers (242.4±146.1 mins), and burners (325.0±153.1 mins). Significant physical exposures included walking and pulling a loaded cart with severe torso flexion for collectors; sitting with severe trunk flexion and hips/knees &lt; 90°, lifting-lowering heavy items and repetitive hand motions for dismantlers; standing with severe trunk flexion and high repetition for burners. Non-neutral neck postures, working with hands below waist height, high force exertions and contact stress were significant for all worker categories. Most substantive MSD ratings were for the lower/upper back, shoulder, and knees for collectors; shoulder, hand-wrist and lower back for dismantlers; and lower back and neck for burners.

Conclusions
Physical exposures in informal e-waste processing predisposes workers to MSDs. Differences in type, duration, intensity, and repetition of exposures in collectors, dismantlers, and burners has implications for prioritizing and tailoring workplace interventions. Safer work methods are impeded by lack of financial, social, and governmental support. Urgent attention is needed given the growing number of informal workers, even in industrialized countries.
SS37-04 OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH AND DECENT WORK: SOCIAL PROTECTION IN ANTICIPATING NEW AND EMERGING RISKS
Authors: de Anchieta Messias Iracimara 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The new technologies and forms of work pose challenges to decent work (DW). Social protection, through integrative policies, facilitates the anticipation of occupational safety and health (OSH) services in the face of new risks. In this regard, categories of workers and specific groups are more vulnerable to new technologies and forms of work, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Materials and Methods
A literature review was conducted to assess proactive and collaborative public policy actions as innovations in promoting DW. The vulnerability of specific categories of workers in LMICs, in the management of precision technologies that pose new risks and intensify known ones, is discussed.

Results
Identifying vulnerable categories of workers, as well as specific groups and understanding the variability of the interaction between workers and the use of new technologies, are essential points in managing the mitigation of new and emerging risks. The pillar of social protection should aim at developing transdisciplinary competencies and training in anticipating poorly understood risks that cause psychosocial, toxicological, and physical injuries. Changes in the redesign of safety models, such as the use of biopsychological models, are alternative approaches to OSH.

Conclusions
Strengthening workers in managing new technologies and forms of work should be the goal of OSH for DW. Management actions should support the redesign of safety through dialogue and cooperation, addressing new variables in the production process and new phenomena of physical, chemical, organizational, and psychosocial risks. Specific categories of vulnerable workers in LMICs should be monitored.
SS40-05 BASIC OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES IN CHINA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Authors: Zhang Min 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In the halfway of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2030 which is interlinked with Universal Health Coverage (UHC), it is essential to discuss the challenges and opportunities of Basic Occupational Health Services (BOHS) with the Healthy China 2030 Strategy.

Materials and Methods
We used an interpretive approach for analysis of the evidence and policy progress in China in recent years.

Results
(1) National regulation on occupational health has been strengthened in China, including the governmental system reform, adoption/amendment of laws relevant to occupational health, the Action of Occupational Health Protection under the Healthy China Action Plan (2019-2030). (2) The demographic changes of the working population and workplace trends demonstrate the impact to the near future. (3) BOHS have played an important role in occupational health protection in China, however, the strategies of BOHS need to be upgraded to adapt to the Chinese social economic development, the critical gaps are related to service providers, vulnerable workers/sectors, coverage and sustainable development as well as the fragmented systems of management. (4) The well-developed BOHS rely on the capacity of the health workforce across general practice of primary healthcare, and specialized occupational health institutions at various levels.

Conclusions
In order to address the complex and interrelated challenges of BOHS, multi-sector collaboration should be improved by breaking the silos that hinder effective communication and coordination. Furthermore, the investment in occupational disease prevention and control could be enhanced with the combined funding from healthcare, work-related injury insurance and trade unions.
SS41 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH FOR MIGRANT WORKERS: RESEARCH GAPS, INTERVENTIONS AND THE FUTURE AHEAD
Authors: Salmen-Navarro Acran 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
It is estimated that the number of people living outside of their country of origin reached 281 million in 2020, approximately the size of the entire population of Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous country. Most of these migrants come from low- and middle-income countries to high-income countries where approximately 65% of them live.
Unfortunately, migrant workers are globally known to predominantly work in “4-D jobs”— dirty, dangerous, and difficult and discriminatory; the fourth ‘D’ was recently added to acknowledge the discriminatory aspect and other social determinants of health migrant workers face in their host country. These workers are at considerable risk of work-related illnesses and injury but their health needs are critically overlooked in research and policy.
International migration has been used by some destination countries as a tool to address the labor market shortage. The absence of a global coordinated approach for migrant workers highlights a key deficiency in public, population, and global health, resulting in a lack of basic occupational health and dignifying workplaces.
Objectives of this Special Session: (i) Identify new research gaps and intervention possibilities to prevent work-related illness and diseases of migrant workers, (ii) foster the scientific progress, knowledge and development of occupational health programs during the four phases of migration, (iii) foment collaboration between participants to drive policy and improve the quality of existing programs around the world through a synergistic network of experts.
SS41-01 BRAIN DRAIN AND BRAIN GAIN: HOW THE MIGRATION PROCESS INFLUENCES MIGRANT WORKERS
Authors: Salmen-Navarro Acran 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Work is the primary drive for those who voluntarily migrate to increase their income and provide for their families in their home countries. Those who are forced to migrate immediately seek means of income to sustain themselves through a precarious process, as recently evidenced in the consequences of war in the Ukraine, and the Middle East and the economic crisis in Venezuela and Sri Lanka. Migrant workers are at considerable risk of work-related ill health and injury, and their health needs are critically overlooked in research and policy.
In the United States the exposure to COVID-19 increased the vulnerability of undocumented Latino migrant laborers in the workplace, as they faced even more extreme conditions of systemic racism and migrant exploitation in recent times. Despite the rapid spike in infection rates, they did not have the option of sheltering in place, and instead faced gruelling working conditions during the increased spread of COVID-19.
Migrant workers are at a higher risk of work-related diseases and injury. As we recognize the Universal Declaration of Human Rights from the United Nations, ‘Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favorable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment’, it is vital to understand the statistical data with the contributing factors behind this phenomenon.
Considering no human life is dispensable, we must protect migrant workers from structural discriminatory processes that undervalue their occupational safety and health, livelihood and the significant contribution these workers bring to their host countries.
SS42-01 INTRODUCING THE GLOBAL NETWORK FOR EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH, WORK PARTICIPATION AND WELLBEING
Authors: Hoving Jan L , McElvenny Damien M , Tikka Christina , Schaafsma Frederieke , Curti Stefania , Mattioli Stefano , Piacentino John , Gagliardi Diana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The global workforce consists of 3.5 billion people. They all deal with specific issues relating to their job or employability. Ideally, their questions are answered by easily available and trustworthy evidence. The flood of new systematic reviews, original research, trials, and other information makes it, however, nearly impossible for any professional, sector, healthcare system or country to keep up-to-date. We believe that a global collaboration of stakeholders in occupational safety and health (OSH) can be part of the solution.

Materials and Methods
In the past two years we studied whether it is feasible to organise a global network that is dedicated to shaping the synthesis, dissemination and implementation of evidence in the field of OSH, work participation and wellbeing. We conducted a feasibility study and organised two face-to-face meetings to inform and investigate the interest in such a network.

Results
Supported by affiliation of international and national institutions and appropriately qualified individuals, the network facilitates the production of high-quality evidence syntheses, methodological developments, and knowledge translation. These will provide evidence to inform policy and practice to provide workers with healthier and safer workplaces, and to improve their work participation and wellbeing.

Conclusions
In this presentation we will explain how the network came about, its connection with Cochrane Work and its activities for the future, including the support to the systematic and transparent use of evidence by OSH decision makers.
SS42-02 SURVEY TO ASSESS THE FEASIBILITY OF ESTABLISHING A GLOBAL NETWORK FOR EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
Authors: McElvenny Damien M , Verbeek Jos , Gagliardi Diana , Tikka Christina , Hoving Jan L 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Evidence synthesis in the field of occupational safety and health (OSH) has been continuously growing over the last two decades. With over 100 systematic reviews now published, the Cochrane Work Review group (https://work.cochrane.org/) has played an important role in this development and the Cochrane Thematic Group ‘Work and Health and Social Security’ - (https://community.cochrane.org/news/major-milestones-and-new-beginnings-cochrane-announces-first-round-new-thematic-groups) - was established recently to combine evidence from both the OSH and insurance medicine fields. Worldwide, many organisations produce and synthesise evidence in OSH that can complement and support each other. We believe that a global network including Cochrane and others can collaborate on methods development and in the production, synthesis, use and dissemination of different types of evidence even more effectively. The aim was to determine if establishing a global network for evidence synthesis in OSH was feasible.

Materials and Methods
We conducted a survey of international and national institutions between November 2022 and January 2023 using LimeSurvey. Participants included representatives of affiliate and sustaining members of the International Commission on Occupational Health (ICOH), national institutes for OSH, academia and other international organisations.

Results
From 151 invitations, we received responses from 57 representatives of 54 organisations. Representatives reported that their organisation will contribute financially on an annual basis (n=1) or provide in kind support (n=10), and will probably be able to provide financial or in-kind support (n=25).

Conclusions
The feasibility criteria were met and a global network is being established.
SS42-03 EVIDENCE-INFORMED DECISION-MAKING IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY – RESULTS FROM A DOCTORAL THESIS
Authors: Tikka Christina , de Boer Angela , Hoving Jan L 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Decisions to (de-)implement occupational safety and health (OSH) interventions are not always supported by the available scientific evidence. Answers are needed on how to support evidence-informed decision-making in OSH.

Materials and Methods
Analysis of the quality of evidence in the OSH field by 1) conducting two Cochrane systematic reviews of randomized and non-randomized studies, and 2) analyzing the reporting quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in 18 OSH journals after 2010. Analysis was based on GRADE, ROB, ROB-2, and CONSORT. Investigation of evidence-informed OSH decision-making, both from a population and individual perspective by 1) applying the evidence-to-decision (EtD) framework for policy decisions regarding return-to-work coordination efforts, and 2) developing and evaluating the feasibility of a decision aid for healthcare workers on the use of double gloves to prevent needle-stick injuries. Studies were conducted in Finland and included survey, interview, register, and document data.

Results
Most intervention studies provide moderate to very low-certainty evidence. Most trials do not fulfil reporting standards (CONSORT) which negatively impacts the risk of bias assessments, and thus the quality of the evidence. The EtD framework for policy makers and a decision-aid for workers supported a systematic and transparent approach to decision-making that is informed by the best available evidence for all relevant decision-making criteria, such as effectiveness, costs, and personal values.

Conclusions
Good quality evidence is available but rare. Knowledge translation tools, such as the EtD framework or a decision aid, enable the transparent and systematic use of the best available evidence.
SS42-04 CHALLENGING OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH PRACTICE USING EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH RESEARCH
Authors: Schaafsma Frederieke , McElvenny Damien M , Tikka Christina , Hoving Jan L , Piacentino John , Gagliardi Diana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
High quality occupational health practice needs continuous research that aligns with developments in healthcare, in our work and workforce, and in our national or global society. New questions from occupational health practitioners should be addressed efficiently by researchers and the results need to be expressed in such a manner that day-to-day practice can – if necessary – implement these results. The Netherlands Society of Occupational Medicine puts priority in developing and updating evidence-based practice guidelines for occupational health practitioners based on their needs and developments within their practice.

Materials and Methods
Taking work-related mental stress as an example we will illustrate how and why emphasis is placed on developing a guideline for occupational health physicians based on up-to-date evidence on how to prevent and/or intervene in case of perceived high work pressure and related sick leave due to mental stress.

Results
Guideline developers and practitioners in occupational healthcare need high quality evidence syntheses to efficiently adjust their recommendations and day-to-day practice.

Conclusions
In this presentation we will illustrate how practice and research are connected with each other and why high-quality evidence syntheses can accelerate necessary changes in day-to-day occupational health practice.
SS44-02 WORKERS’ EXPERIENCES OF GOING TO WORK WITH CHRONIC PAIN
Authors: Walker-Bone Karen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Chronic pain is common, affecting approximately one third of people at any point in time but is more severe and more impactful amongst those from poorer socio-economic position. It is associated with depression and anxiety, markedly reduced quality of life and functional impairment. An estimated 20-27% of people of working age with chronic pain are unable to participate in their usual activities, including working. As many as 40% of people attending pain clinics are unable to work because of their pain.

Materials and Methods
Data will be presented from a programme of work with people unemployed through chronic pain, describing qualitative and quantitative analyses undertaken and the results of a pilot feasibility trial in which people with chronic pain were randomised to Individual placement and support versus usual care.

Results
People with chronic pain want to be able to work and value interventions to assist them with doing so. However, it is difficult to recruit people, at least in the UK, through primary care and when recruited through pain services, they are far from being “work ready”. Individual placement and support may be effective for people with chronic pain and when successful, can lead to better quality of life and need for less medication.

Conclusions
People with chronic pain want to participate in work (and need to, especially if they are economically disadvantaged) but they face a number of barriers to being able to do so. Flexible, fair employment with support from colleagues can be effective but societies may need a change of approach.
SS53-05 THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND THE ESSENTIAL CARDINAL RULES FOR CRISIS COMMUNICATION IN MASS BIOLOGICAL EVENTS FOR OUR COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE
Authors: Lum Max 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Over the last century, outbreaks and pandemics have occurred with disturbing regularity and we can expect more of them, whether like a Coronavirus, or some yet unknown pathogen. Effective public health surveillance, action and turnaround times requires an effective communication response and action.

Materials and Methods
This analysis examines crisis communication response to COVID-19 in business and public organizations as a reflection of individual country response. It analyzes how effectively necessary crisis responses were communicated to workers and communities using the CDC’s crisis and emergency risk communication (CERC) as its analytical framework.

Results
This analysis concludes offering essential cardinal rules of crisis communication and an underlying perspective - basically an initial ‘lessons learned’ for applying appropriate communication strategies and applications during a pandemic. This presentation is informed by the results of crisis communication analysis provided in Brazil, South Korea, Singapore and the United States.

Conclusions
Beyond surveillance there is a strong need to provide target audiences safety and health information they need when they need it, and to assure lack of mixed messages and be science driven. Messages themselves must be action oriented, clear and developed by individual audience understanding. The essentials of crisis communication assist workers, workplaces, and communities to be safe, cope mentally and connect to a deeper sense of purpose and resilience.

Disclaimer
The findings and conclusions in this paper are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of NIOSH.