bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SS06-04 A FRAMEWORK FOR ASSESSING OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES SYSTEMS
Authors: Ramirez Ana Catalina 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The recent changes in world of work (labour mobility, subcontracting, non-standard forms of employment and digitalization) are having a profound impact on the operation of enterprises and on workers’ health by creating new occupational safety and health (OSH) risks or by aggravating existing ones. Adequate access to healthcare and, fundamentally, to prevention services is key to protect workers’ health and anticipate new risks.

Materials and Methods
Occupational health (OH) services are advisory and support services with preventive functions, as defined by the Occupational Health Services Convention (No. 161). However, only between 10% and 15% of workers have access to some form of OH service. Workers in the informal economy; workers in non-standard forms of employment and micro and small and medium enterprises are among the most affected by the lack of access to these services. Similarly, these groups remain disproportionately excluded from social health protection (SHP) coverage.

Results
If organized appropriately and effectively, the extension of SHP and OH services coverage to workers in all forms of employment can contribute significantly to create safe and healthy working environment as well as to improve universal health access, contributing therefore to SDG8 and SDG3.

Conclusions
This presentation will describe a framework for assessing OH services system, including legal framework, functions, organization, coverage, resources, funding and governance based on concrete country examples. It also will explore the establishment of robust inter-institutional linkages between SHP and OH services as a strategy to extend coverage of both systems.
SS07-04 THE NEED FOR A NEW HOLISTIC APPROACH IN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND MANAGEMENT
Authors: Lucchini Roberto 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Disasters of different types increasingly affect humanity and plans for emergency preparedness and management are still largely insufficient to avoid immediate and long-term impacts on physical/mental health, ecosystem, productivity and societal development.

Materials and Methods
A literature search was conducted on events occurring worldwide starting from the chemical accident of Seveso, Italy in 1976. Publicly available databases were utilized including the EU e-MARS, the EM-DAT and others. Accidents were grouped according to their cause: natural hazards, chemical, nuclear, infectious, war and terrorism, and to their degree of severity. Lesson learned were analysed to test the efficacy of a more holistic unified approach to all hazards.

Results
The frequency of disasters of all types is increasing, in relation to different factors including extreme weather conditions, deterioration of old infrastructures, growing urbanization, and human errors despite automatization. Large areas of overlapping conditions were observed across different types of disasters, leading to potential unified implementation of common measures for preparedness and management. Data-driven tools for predictive modelling are key to approach disasters in the modern era, and they can be applied independently from the nature of the disaster. The impacts on physical and mental health can be persistent in the long-term, requiring prolonged epidemiological follow-up and care.

Conclusions
More effective strategies for preparedness and management are urgently needed to face the increasing burden of accidents of different nature.
SS07-05 THE MANAGEMENT OF FIRST AID IN THE WORKPLACES IN ITALY: OPPORTUNITIES AND CRITICAL ISSUES
Authors: Pera Alessandra , De Rosa M , Papaleo B 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In Italy the organization and management of first aid in the workplace are established by law (D.Lgs. 81/2008 and D.M. 388/2003): the occupational physician takes care of the organization of the company’s first aid system, while the management in case of an accident goes through the company’s first aid workers (lay rescuers), specifically identified and properly trained and through the local emergency medical service (EMS). First aid training is based on specific learning objectives defined by law. The Italian legislation requires the presence of the defibrillator only in public administration and sports centers, while in the workplace, places with a grade turnout of people (stations, stadiums, theaters, shopping centers), isolated and/ or difficult to reach places, is currently only recommended.
An intense awareness campaign has developed in recent years, but it would be desirable to add training in the use of the defibrillator also for first responders, without incurring additional costs for companies, both in economic and time terms. INAIL (National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work) rewards companies that carry out interventions to improve the conditions of prevention and protection of health and safety, including the acquisition of a defibrillator, with a reduction in the insurance premium (OT23). The introduction of this incentive system has led to a steady increase in companies that have purchased the defibrillator and trained workers to use it correctly.
SS07-07 TOXIC EXPOSURE AND EFFECT BIOMONITORING OF FIREFIGHTERS
Authors: Burgess Jefferey L 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Firefighters have an increased risk for multiple cancers and adverse reproductive outcomes compared to the general population. However, the specific exposures and associated mechanisms of toxicity leading to these outcomes are not fully understood and may vary across firefighting groups.

Methods
Firefighters in the United States (US) have enrolled into the prospective multicenter Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study (FFCCS), providing a common structure for facilitating individual research studies. These studies have included but are not limited to evaluation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), women firefighters, and wildland firefighters. Each study uses a common set of survey measures and standardized collection of blood and urine samples, with study-specific surveys and additional sample collection to meet each project need. Firefighter research champions are involved in all phases of the research.

Results
As of July, 2023, the FFCCS had enrolled over 3,700 firefighters across 27 states. Serum PFAS measurements have been associated with differential blood DNA methylation and microRNA concentration. Women firefighters are being evaluated for carcinogenic and reproductive risk and mental health conditions, with preliminary results showing a 66% reduction in serum anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), a measure of ovarian reserve, in firefighters with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Wildland firefighters are being evaluated for exposures and carcinogenic risk with plans for future exposure reduction studies.

Conclusion
The FFCCS has provided an effective framework for evaluation of exposures and toxic effects in firefighters.
SS08 ADVERSE HUMAN HEALTH AND SAFETY IMPACTS OF CHEMICAL USE TO SMALL-SCALE MINERS, AND THEIR HOUSEHOLDS AND COMMUNITY, AND INTERVENTIONS
Authors: Lu Jinky Leilanie 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The Special Session will cover the wide-ranging adverse health effects of exposures to chemicals commonly used in formal and informal mining, either regulated or outside the purview of regulation of the government. The small-scale miners are directly exposed to these chemicals; they bring home these toxins; these chemicals e.g. mercury and other toxic metals contaminate the environment - air, water, and soil.
This session will present research evidence and advocacies in mercury use and poisoning in various parts of the globe, the presence of trace metals in blood and urine of the exposed, as well as the promises and benefits of new methods of biomonitoring, principles of prevention strategies, and innovative workplace practices.
SS08-02 BIOMONITORING OF TRACE METALS IN BLOOD AND URINE AMONG ARTISANAL MINERS IN THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
Authors: Obadia Paul Musa , Kitenge Joseph Pyana , Kuhangana Trésor Carsi , Badiambile Remy Mpulumba , Musambo Taty Muta , Mutayo Malick Useni , Mukanya Jeef Numbi , Duca Radu-Corneliu , Creta Matteo , Kitenge Tony Kayembe , Ani Maria-Mirela , Nkulu Célestin Banza Lubaba , Nemery Benoit 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, artisanal and small-scale mining employ an estimated 200,000 people, and over a million are indirectly involved through trade and transport. We assessed metal exposure in artisanal miners involved in mining three types of commodities (copper-cobalt, tin, diamonds).

Materials and Methods
In cross-sectional studies (March 2021 - August 2022), we measured trace metals by Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) in blood (µg/L) and urine (µg/g creatinine) in convenience samples of miners (mostly males) extracting copper-cobalt (n=147, four mines, Kolwezi), tin (n=99, three mines around Manono), and diamonds (n=80, Mbuji-Mayi).

Results
Diamond miners had generally low concentrations (GM with IQR) for most trace metals, except for Pb in blood [74.2 (60.6-90.4)] and urine. Compared to diamond miners, copper-cobalt miners had higher blood concentrations for several elements, especially Co [5.55 (2.87-10.74)], but also Ge, As and Hg; they also had higher urinary concentrations for Co [28.3 (13.5-60.5), Mn, As, Sn, and U [0.031 (0.018-1.265)]. In general, tin miners did not exhibit higher metal concentrations than diamond miners, except for Pb in blood [318 (260-727)] and urine, Tl in blood [0.20 (0.14-0.26)] and urine, as well as As, Sn and U in urine; compared to copper-cobalt miners, tin miners had lower Sn in blood and in urine.

Conclusions
In this cross-sectional study, we found evidence of substantially higher occupational exposure to cobalt and toxic trace metals in copper-cobalt artisanal miners than in diamond and tin miners. The relatively high concentrations of lead and thallium among tin miners need further research.
SS09-01 BUILDING GLOBAL CONSENSUS FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (OH&S) MANAGEMENT THROUGH ISO STANDARDIZATION - PART 1
Authors: Cottam Martin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational health and safety (OH&S) is becoming increasingly important as societal and stakeholder expectations evolve. This is reflected in the International Labour Organization’s recognition of safe and healthy working conditions as a fundamental right of workers, and the increasing focus on organizations’ Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) credentials, within the social element of which OH&S is a key component.

Materials and Methods
This part of the session will describe the importance of managing OH&S effectively, and the role that international standards play in helping organizations address this challenge. It will provide an overview of the published standards under ISO/TC 283, including ISO 45001, the overarching specification for OH&S management systems, together with guidance standards that address important areas including psychological health, safety and wellbeing of workers (ISO 45003), current and future challenges of infectious diseases at work (ISO 45006), and the effective evaluation of an organization’s OH&S performance (ISO 45004).

Results
This part of the session will include discussion, tips and the opportunity for the audience to ask questions on using standards effectively to help drive OH&S improvement.

Conclusion
Participants will gain an understanding of why OH&S is an increasingly important aspect of organizational performance, and the role that standards can play in helping address this challenge.
SS10-01 UPDATES ON WHO ACTIVITIES FOR THE PREVENTION OF HEALTH RISKS RELATED TO NON-IONIZING RADIATION EXPOSURE
Authors: Van Deventer Emilie 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Within the current WHO global strategy and towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, the WHO Radiation and Health Unit works to strengthen radiation protection worldwide. Considering non-ionizing radiation (NIR), the activities cover electromagnetic fields (EMF) and optical radiation topics, as well as infrasound and ultrasound.

Methods
The activities on NIR risk prevention of the WHO Radiation and Health Unit are performed under the umbrella of the International EMF Project and the WHO Global UV Project. The EMF Project, established in 1996, investigates the health effects from EMFs and advises national authorities on EMF radiation protection. Regarding optical radiation, the WHO Global UV Project-INTERSUN was established in 1995, to assess and monitor the health impact of UV exposure and to provide guidance to national authorities to reduce optical radiation-induced health risks.

Results
The key populations to be protected from NIR include the public, workers and patients. Several activities have been undertaken regarding occupational exposure, including in different industries using artificial NIR sources, as well as workers who are exposed to natural sources of NIR exposure (and in particular solar radiation) in the context of their work.

Conclusions
The presentation will elaborate on the WHO activities in occupational radiation protection and the main challenges.
SS10-03 DATA AND CRITERIA FOR THE PREVENTION OF THE OCCUPATIONAL RISK RELATED TO SOLAR UV RADIATION
Authors: Wittlich Marc 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common cancer in Western countries. Occupational health prevention must be introduced as a strong instrument in workers protection also with regard to occupational disease issues. To date, criteria for both occupational health prevention and occupational disease are missing and the identification of risk groups has no metric basis.

Materials and Methods
With GENESIS-UV, we measured the largest data set available to date. Criteria for occupational health prevention were specifically mapped on occupation-specific dosimetric measurements of 45,000 measurement days in 176 occupations and sub-occupations to identify affected occupations. The number of employees affected were elucidated, worldwide. Finally, a direct link to retrospective occupational disease criteria could be established.

Results
The data set has been published and made available for scientists all over the world. Regarding occupational health prevention, of the 176 occupations and sub-occupations selected for this work, 153 (= 87%) exceed the criterion and thus need special attention. This includes all occupations with annual exposures of more than 150 SED. Employment figures for the EU and the world yield the total number of affected workers to be 36.1 million and more than 500 million, respectively.

Conclusions
These new criteria for occupational health prevention are valid and in good agreement with international research by WHO and ICNIRP. If applied correctly and consistently, these criteria can prevent occupational disease. It will be possible to identify occupations and sub-occupations that have an urgent need for prevention to avoid chronic skin damage leading to cancer.
SS10-04 THE HEALTH SURVEILLANCE OF WORKERS EXPOSED TO NON-IONIZING RADIATIONS: INDICATIONS BASED ON CURRENT EUROPEAN LEGISLATION
Authors: Modenese Alberto , Gobba Fabriziomaria 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
A very large number of workers worldwide is exposed to non-Ionizing radiations (NIR), including optical radiation (OR) and electromagnetic fields (EMF) at their workplaces.

Materials and Methods
For artificial OR and for EMF in Europe, two Directives exist, i.e. 2013/35/EU and 2006/25/EC respectively, regulating the need for risk assessment at the workplaces and for an implementation of health surveillance (HS) programs. It should be noted that for natural OR exposure, i.e. solar radiation (SR), no specific OSH regulations are available in the EU.

Results
For EMF, the Directive aims at the prevention of direct short-term effects and indirect effects. Direct effects can usually appear in cases of high exposures, while indirect effects are possible even at lower exposure levels in workers “at particular risk”, e.g. persons with implanted active medical devices. Considering artificial OR, in case the risk evaluation identifies a relevant risk at work, HS could be considered mandatory in EU. For SR, on the other hand, HS is not an obligation. Nevertheless, outdoor workers have a well-documented increased risk of UV-related adverse effects, and for these reasons an appropriate HS is definitely necessary. For both EMF and OR, special attention to target tissues of the radiations, as well as to workers with conditions of particular susceptibility, has to be devoted during the HS programmes.

Conclusions
The HS of NIR-exposed workers is recommended in Europe for a proper prevention of the occupational risks arising from EMF and OR exposures, deserving special attention for workers with conditions of particular susceptibility to the risk.
SS12-01 OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS IN THE HANDICRAFT SECTOR AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: El Aoudi Yasmina 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Craftsmanship offers a range of very varied products with artistic or utilitarian value. It is a dynamic and culturally rich sector that contributes significantly to the country's economy. This presentation highlights the occupational risks prevalent in Morocco's artisanal sector and explores how combating these risks can contribute to the country's sustainable development.
We will briefly present the importance of the artisanal sector in the cultural heritage and economy of Morocco. Common occupational risks faced by Moroccan artisans will be described, such as: exposure to toxic chemicals; repetitive strain injuries due to manual manufacturing techniques; poor working conditions, particularly ergonomics; how these hazards affect the health and wellbeing of artisans and their communities will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on how improving working conditions in the craft sector aligns with objectives such as good health and wellbeing, decent work and reduced inequalities.
We will also present potential strategies to mitigate occupational risks in the Moroccan artisanal sector: (i) implementation of safety and hygiene standards, (ii) proposal of training and awareness programs for artisans, (iii) support for the development of ergonomic tools and workspaces, and (iv) expanding access to healthcare and social security for artisans. We will highlight the responsibility of the Moroccan government, businesses and consumers in promoting sustainable practices and improving working conditions. We’ll discuss the importance of collaborations, certifications and fair trade practices.
In conclusion: Attention will be drawn to the fight against occupational risks in the Moroccan artisanal sector, which is a crucial step towards sustainable development.
SS12-02 CHILD LABOR AND EDUCATION IN THE HANDICRAFT
Authors: Charioui Souad 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Child labor remains a social scourge that affects every country in the world, including Morocco, despite its ratification of the ILO Conventions on the Rights of the Child, Conventions 138 and 182. The craft sector is one of the sectors in which children are employed.

Materials and Methods
We have listed the surveys carried out in Morocco on this subject, using statistics from national institutions.

Results
Children are employed in the various craft trades without exception, often as apprentices; the majority under the age of 15, male and from rural areas. The reasons for employing are poverty, not attending or failing at school, and social integration through learning a trade. The conditions under which children work: poor health and safety conditions, mostly manual labor, lack of personal protective equipment, long working hours, poor pay, lack of medical supervision, inhumane practices by employers towards children – all have an impact on their physical, mental and even social health. Apprenticeship training centers have been set up, catering for children over the age of 15; with committees responsible for monitoring and assessing apprenticeship, working conditions and occupational safety.

Conclusions
Child labor in the craft sector still persists, and has a negative impact on children’s health and morals. A program to fight child labor, launched in Morocco in 2000, aims to reduce all forms of child labor, including in the craft sector, and has helped to reduce the number of child workers over the years.
SS13-03 WORK-RELATED CANCER IN FINLAND
Authors: Sauni Riitta , Takala Jukka , Hämäläinen Päivi , Nygård Clas-Håkan , Neupane Subas 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The aim of this study was to estimate the magnitude of the burden of work-related cancer in terms of fatalities in Finland during the year 2019. Additionally, it sought to compare these figures with the national statistics on occupational cancers 2005-2019.

Materials and Methods
Data on occupational illnesses and injuries were sourced from international organizations, institutions, and public websites. Population attributable fractions (PAF) for the various risk factor-outcome pairs were derived from literature. Reported and recognized occupational cancers registered during 2005-2019 were evaluated from the Finnish Register of Occupational Diseases (FROD).

Results
According to the latest estimates, there was a total of 1028 work-related cancer cases in Finland in 2019. They comprised 45% of all fatal cases of work-related diseases. In 2005-2019, a total of 2288 cancer cases were reported to the FROD. Of these, 1358 (59%, 153 cases/year on average) were recognized as occupational diseases. Lung cancer (44%) and mesothelioma (54%) were the most common cancer types. Altogether, 1328 recognized cases (98%) were related to asbestos exposure. Exposure to silica, wood dust, chromium, nickel and arsenic caused one to four cases each.

Conclusions
The compensation-based register (FROD) presents figures for work-related cancer that are approximately ten times smaller compared to estimates derived from scientific literature. The recognized cases are those that insurance companies have compensated as occupational diseases. However, the estimates provide a better national scope of the burden posed by work-related cancer. As the register-based data varies across different countries, the estimates offer a valuable avenue for international comparisons.
SS19-01 THIRTY YEARS ON – HOW EU-OSHA USES COLLABORATIONS TO ACHIEVE IMPACT IN OSH
Authors: Cockburn William 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Thirty years ago, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (www.osha.europa.eu) was established with the aim of improving by sharing and developing knowledge. Since then the agency has supported policy-making in OSH through research, supported prevention of workplace risks with guidance and tools and contributed to a positive prevention culture through awareness raising.
During this time, the world of work has changed significantly, making it all the more challenging to achieve a substantial OSH impact. As a relatively small organisation, EU-OSHA relies on its network and on collaboration at global as well as European level to achieve its objectives.
Looking to the future, EU-OSHA will address the most important challenges in OSH, such as those related to digitalisation, climate change, psychosocial risks and mental health, cardiovascular disease, work-related cancer and occupational injuries. For each of these challenges it will contribute to the evidence base through its research, identify examples of good practice, develop tools and guidance and run awareness raising campaigns. While such actions are needed to create safe, sustainable and healthy workplaces, it is essential that progress can be monitored and that the benefits to society can be quantified and communicated to a broad audience.