bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
O-188 BIOMONITORING OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO FIRE COMBUSTION FUME IN FIREFIGHTERS AND RELATED CANCER RISK ESTIMATION
Authors: Persoons Renaud , Zang Pauline , Bonneterre Vincent 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational as a firefighter was recently classified as carcinogenic to humans by IARC, based on sufficient evidence for mesothelioma and bladder cancer. There are several studies on occupational exposures of firefighters to PAHs, but only a few assessed the relative contribution of skin and respiratory routes in the overall exposures, and determined the factors driving exposures.

Methods
An air/biomonitoring study was conducted in firefighters performing simulated firefighting trainings in enclosed environments (sea containers). Air samples, urine samples and skin patch testings were performed on 20 firefighters. In addition, video recording of work practices (unwearing of self-contained breathing apparatus, face and devices cleaning) was performed in order to correlate practices with exposures. PAHs were measured in ambient air as well as their urinary metabolites.

Results
Moderate to high occupational exposures were measured, with Pyrene and BaP urinary metabolite concentrations exceeding maximum recommended values in occupational settings (up to 2.8 µmol/mol creatinine for 1-OHP and 1 nmol/mol creatinine for 3-OHBaP). Air concentrations were consistent, reaching up to 66 µg/m3 for total PAH concentrations. Patch tests revealed high concentrations on firefighter neck, face and hands. Video records showed the influence of cleaning practices on exposures.

Discussion
The exposures were found to derive both from dermal absorption (during firefighting) and inhalation (when removing PPE and hyperventilating in the vicinity of containers). Individual practices and poor hygiene protocols explained the high exposures.

Conclusion
This study confirmed the regular exposures of firefighters, the need for better hygiene protocols, and questioned the relevance of fighting suit for preventing ultrafine particles absorption.
P-357 THE USE OF DRIED BLOOD SPOTS IN BIOMONITORING FOR LEAD AND CADMIUM
Authors: Mason Howard , Jones Kate , Morton Jackie 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Workplace exposure to lead and cadmium requires the collection of blood samples. This invasive sampling needs a phlebotomist and can cause discomfort and stress for the worker. The work described here investigates the use of quantitative dried blood spots to help simplify blood sample collection, making it more accessible and less of a burden for workers and companies.

Methods
Following evaluation of several blood spot devices, the Captainer B (CAPITAINER AB, Solna, Sweden) was chosen and is now being used in a pilot study to evaluate its utility in occupational biomonitoring. The sampling device collects two very small spots of blood (10 µL) on a card; the spots then each deposit on a small filter. The dried blood on the filters are then digested using the Multiwave 7000 microwave system (Anton Paar, St. Albans, UK) in low volumes of acid, and analysed by ICPMS (Thermo ICPMS RQ, Hemel Hempsted, UK). Stability studies of spiked blood spots have shown that both lead and cadmium have good recoveries after 16 weeks. The pilot study being undertaken is requesting venous blood, dried spot blood and urine samples from lead and cadmium workers undergoing routine biological monitoring.

Results and Conclusions
The data will be presented at the conference. Dried blood spots show potential for more practical blood sampling in occupational settings.
P-359 EVALUATION OF EXPOSURE TO LOW DOSES OF LEAD IN THE CIRCUIT BOARD MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY
Authors: Bechrifa Emna , Khouja Nihel , Baraketi Emna , Koubaa Asma , Fatma Naourez Ben , Belkahla Amira , Ismail Saloua , Hsinet Jihen , Benzarti Aida , Slama Wafa , Merghni Syrine , Meskini Cheima , Khaireddine Donia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The toxicity of lead has been known since antiquity, and it has become clear that low levels of lead are likely to cause problems that are certainly less important but worrying. Objectives: To assess occupational exposure to lead in the electronic circuit board industry and describe the occupational and clinical characteristics of workers exposed to low doses of lead.

Methods
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among workers of two electronic card manufacturing companies in Tunisia using a questionnaire.

Results
Fifty-two workers were exposed to lead. The mean age was 39.12 ± 8.7 years. Women account for 67% of the workforce. They were general workers in 90% of cases. Lead in air for company 1 ranged from non-detectable to 0.069 mg/m₃ and for company 2 the value was less than 0.01 mg/m₃. The blood lead levels of our employees varied between 10 and 75µg/l with a median of 16µg/l. At the digestive level, they reported anorexia (27%), weight loss (17%), abdominal colic (25%), and constipation (17%). Sleep disorders were found, such as frequent nocturnal awakenings (31%), insomnia upon awakening (25%), and insomnia upon falling asleep (23%). Employees had memory problems such as impaired ability to memorize a new fact (27%) and impaired ability to retrieve a memory (12%), mood disorders such as sadness (19%) and anxiety (25%) and behavioral disorders manifested by irritability (39%) and aggressiveness (19%).

Discussion
We highlighted exposure to low doses of lead in the electronic card sector.

Conclusion
Various symptoms were reported, highlighting the importance of strengthening preventive strategies.
P-366 OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO ANTINEOPLASTIC DRUGS: AN ITALIAN NETWORK OF ONCOLOGICAL HOSPITALS FOR THE BIOMONITORING OF WORKERS BY BUCCAL MICRONUCLEUS CYTOME ASSAY AND THE DETECTION OF WORKPLACE CONTAMINATION
Authors: Ursini Cinzia Lucia , Omodeo-Salè Emanuela , Jemos Costantino , Buresti Giuliana , Fresegna Anna Maria , Ciervo Aureliano , Maiello Raffaele , Gennaro Giorgia Di , Gentile Marco , Camera Cristina , Beltramini Sabrina , Gaggero Daniela , Rigamonti Nicoletta , Maccari Erica , Maiolino Piera , Bilancio Maria Concetta , Baldo Paolo , Martinello Valeria , Mattia Andrea Di , Esposito Chiara , Nardulli Patrizia , Laforgia Mariarita , Sottani Cristina , Grignani Elena , Cavallo Delia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
An Italian Network of 7 Oncological Hospitals has been established to evaluate cyto-genotoxic effects on workers handling Antineoplastic Drugs (AD) by Buccal Micronucleus Cytome assay as biomarker of early effect and to monitor workplace contamination using the same procedures and method of analysis.

Methods
We enrolled 169 workers handling mixtures of AD (mean age 42±11) and 126 controls (mean age 43±10) to evaluate DNA damage (detecting cells with MN and nuclear buds), cytokinesis defect/arrest (by binucleated cells), advanced stage of necrosis and apoptosis (by karyolytic cells) and early apoptosis (by condensed chromatin). Subjects with micronucleated cells frequency exceeding a fixed cut-off value (1.5‰) were considered positive to MN assay. We detected AD contamination performing workplace and personal monitoring of four drugs (Gemcitabine, Ifosfamide, Cyclofosfamide and 5-Fluorouracil) analysed by high-performance liquid chromatographic method coupled with a tandem mass spectrometer (UHPLC MS/MS).

Results
We found differences in the mean values of the BMCyt parameters between exposed and controls particularly for the positivity to MN with a higher percentage found among the administrators vs the preparators. We found low levels, but still detectable, of contamination in all the monitored workplaces with higher concentrations in the workplaces of administration.

Discussion
The biomonitoring and workplace monitoring results have demonstrated to be correlated since preparators showed lower cyto-genotoxic damage, in agreement with the lower levels of AD contamination found where the preparation had occurred

Conclusions
The BMCyt assay was confirmed to be a suitable biomarker for biomonitoring of workers handling AD due to its sensitivity and non-invasiveness.
P-368 PCB, LEAD AND TOLUENE – WHICH CONCENTRATION PROTECTS AGAINST PRENATAL TOXICITY? PERMANENT SENATE COMMISSION FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF HEALTH HAZARDS OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS IN THE WORK AREA – WORKING GROUP “ASSESSMENT VALUES IN BIOLOGICAL MATERIAL”
Authors: Drexler Hans , Weistenhöfer Wobbeke , Schriever-Schwemmer Gerlinde , Michaelsen Sandra , Brinkmann Britta , Bartsch Rüdiger , Hartwig Andrea 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area derived health-based BAT values for PCB, lead and toluene, not all of which adequately protect the unborn children of pregnant employees.

Methods
Data from animal experiments and epidemiological studies on developmental toxicity (and neurotoxicity) were used to assess the prenatal toxic effect of the substances and to establish a concentration at which damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely.

Results
For PCBs, prenatal toxic effects cannot be ruled out at the BAT value of 15 μg/l plasma (Group B) but a concentration of 3.5 µg/l (NOAEL for developmental neurotoxicity) was derived at which a risk to the unborn child would be unlikely (“prerequisite for Group C”). Even if the BAT value of 150 μg/l blood value is adhered to, prenatal toxic effects have been reliably proven for lead (Group A). For toluene, the NOAECs in animal studies for developmental toxicity or developmental neurotoxicity are 600 and 1200 ppm, respectively. Thus, prenatal toxic effects are unlikely at the BAT value of 600 μg toluene/l blood (Group C).

Discussion
Hitherto, lead is the only substance in Group A. No NOAEC for the critical effect of developmental neurotoxicity can be derived for lead.

Conclusion
The assignment of substances to pregnancy risk groups enables pregnant women to work without risk to their unborn children if the substance is classified in Group C or when a concentration is derived at which damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely.
P-369 PREGNANCY RISK GROUPS IN THE EVALUATION OF HEALTH-BASED OCCUPATIONAL LIMIT VALUES: SAFETY AND PROTECTION FOR UNBORN LIFE PERMANENT SENATE COMMISSION FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF HEALTH HAZARDS OF CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS IN THE WORK AREA
Authors: Weistenhöfer Wobbeke , Drexler Hans , Schriever-Schwemmer Gerlinde , Michaelsen Sandra , Brinkmann Britta , Bartsch Rüdiger , Hartwig Andrea 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Observance of the health-based MAK values and BAT values set by the German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area does not guarantee, in every case, that the unborn child is reliably protected because numerous substances have not yet been investigated or have been only partially tested for prenatal toxicity.

Methods
Epidemiological studies on prenatal toxic effects of substances, but predominantly data from animal studies are considered in the evaluation of the developmental toxicity and if necessary developmental neurotoxicity. No-effect levels for developmental toxicity are compared to MAK and BAT values.

Results
The Commission has established pregnancy risk groups to describe the risk of prenatal toxicity when the MAK or BAT value is observed: prenatal toxic effects are (i) unlikely (Group C), (ii) cannot be excluded (Group B) or (iii) have been unequivocally demonstrated (Group A). For substances assigned to Pregnancy Risk Group B, the Commission additionally examines which work place concentration of the substance would correspond to assignment to Pregnancy Risk Group C (“prerequisite for Group C”).

Discussion
A number of substances, however, cannot yet be assigned to one of the above groups due to missing or insufficient data on prenatal toxicity or, in case of neurotoxic substances, on developmental neurotoxicity (Group D).

Conclusions
The establishment of pregnancy risk groups allows to decide whether pregnant women can work without risk to their unborn child.
O-210 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY IMPLEMENTATION IN A SMALL PUBLIC TRANSPORT COMPANY IN PIURA, PERU
Authors: Mera Chu Norvil Antonio 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives
Describing the implementation of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) based in a methodology including 4 phases and a participatory approach in a small public transport company in Peru and its progressive improvement during 3 years.

Material & Methods
This research was a case report study. The unit of study was the indicators of OHS statistics and results from each of the 4 phases of the implementation (design, execution, internal checking and continous improving) at a small company of public transport. The indicators analysed included those from teaching interventions, risk assessment, safety inspections, investigations of workplace accidents, improving personal protection equipment (PEE), medical examinations for workers, monitoring of occupational risk factors, internal audits, among others. It was also analyzed the impact of the OHS on the frequency of accidents and illnesses in workers and on absenteeism.

Results
By the end of the third year, the frequency of accidents was reduced in 33%, the frequency of diseases and comorbilities was reduced in 12% and absenteeism was reduced in 36%. The small company OHS system was audited by the government inspection unit and obtained no violations related to OHS legislation.

Discussion
The methodology based in 4 phases with participatory approach allowed to adapt programs to the company reality and considered main barriers that other researchers found significant as government demands, weak commitment from employers and workers, and inadequate enterprise management.

Conclusion
The implementation of OHS in 4 phases with participatory approach in the small public transport company obtained a lower frequency of accidents and absenteeism.
O-212 AN INTERVENTION TO IMPROVE HEALTH AMONG SMALL-SCALE GOLD MINERS IN NICARAGUA BY ELIMINATING THE USE OF MERCURY
Authors: Smidth Margrethe , Blandon Pedro Byron , Kuylenstierna Chris 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Small-scale gold mining is a big mercury polluter worldwide and not just locally among the miners and their community. Although most countries find it difficult to follow the intentions of the Minamata Convention there seem to be more activities to effectuate the ban among the 123 signatories. Law enforcement, support of new technologies, community awareness and focus on health and environment are pivotal in the National Plan model suggested by United Nations Environmental Programme, UNEP. Diálogos has for many years worked all over the World with different models to implement the Benquet mercury-free method. In the mining community La Libertad in Nicaragua focus is on four cooperatives and educating and supporting the interested miners in teaching their peers.

Materials and Methods
Interviews, questionnaires and focus group are used during an eight months data collection among miners and their families. Data are analysed and presented using sound statistical and analytical methods.

Results
The results from the one-year intervention in La Libertad in Nicaragua are presented with a focus on the female miners. The result of this intervention and its effect on health will be compared with other interventions in other parts of the world.

Discussion- Conclusion
The preliminary results show huge interest and ability to change technology among the miners. The stronger the cooperative and the responsibility towards each other in the community, the better the outcome in form of better sustainability and ability to teach other miners the mercury-free method. Hereby gaining a better health outcome for both miners and their families.
O-213 WORK-RELATED PROBLEMS IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS A CASE REPORT
Authors: Darid Fadwa , Wifaq Kamal , Tahri Loubna , Jbara Meriem , Norredine Doha , El Kholti Abdeljalil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Multiple sclerosis (MS) has an overall disease prevalence of 35.9 per 100,000, with an average age at diagnosis of 32 years. MS can have a notable impact on work ability, hence the interest of this study carried out on a mental health nurse at CHU Ibn Rochd, diagnosed with MS four years ago.

Materials and Methods
We sought specialist assessment from a neurologist at the CHUIR. A workstation examination was carried out and analysis of Functional Systems Scores (FSS), Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire: General Health V2.0 (WPAI:GH) were established.

Results
The nurse is 30 y.o, diagnosed since 2019 with multiple sclerosis. At present, her symptoms are stationary. Work schedule consists of six hours a day, from 8am to 2pm including various following tasks. Calculation of FSS revealed marked paraparesis, moderate sensitivity impairment and mild balance disorder. EDSS scale reported a score of 4. WPAI:GH calculation resulted in a score of 7.

Discussion
MS can widely affect patients’ quality of life, particularly at work. Correlations between WPAI: GH scores and clinical signs were assessed and approved using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and correlations between WPAI: GH scores and EDSS were affirmed using Spearman’s coefficient. We recommended that the employee’s workstation be adapted with regular breaks and avoidance of tasks requiring complex movements and long walking distances.

Conclusion
Multiple sclerosis mainly affects a professionally active age group. Hence the need for a multidisciplinary approach aiming reintegrating MS patients into workplace and ensure their well-being.
O-231 KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES OF PUBLIC SECTOR HEALTH PERSONNEL IN RABAT TOWARDS TUBERCULOSIS
Authors: Lotfi Mohamed , Manar Nadia , Deschamps Frédéric , Laraqui Hossini Chakib El Houssine 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The objective was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices of health professionals in the public sector regarding tuberculosis and the application of the recommendations of the national tuberculosis control program.

Methods and Results
This cross-sectional study was carried out during the first half of 2023 among public sector doctors in the city of Rabat. It involved 165 practitioners (31% of general practitioners, 65.5% of specialists and 3.5% of dentists), excluding pulmonologists. The self-questionnaire included knowledge about pulmonary tuberculosis, the national tuberculosis control program, screening and diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. The female gender represented 64.8%. The National Tuberculosis Control Guide did not contribute to strengthening knowledge about tuberculosis for 7.8% of the sample. 20.6% of professionals declared that they were aware of the missions of the Center for the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory diseases and 35.2% were completely unaware. 26% of participants were completely unaware of the structures involved in the national tuberculosis control program. Almost all those interviewed considered that tuberculosis is a public health problem and affirmed that there is a national program to combat tuberculosis in Morocco. Almost all doctors (99% (n=164)) answered that Mycobacterium tuberculosis hominis (BK) is the causative agent of tuberculosis. The elements least cited by health professionals to confirm the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis are clinical symptoms (34%) and quantiferon (17.7%).

Discussion and Conclusion
To avoid negative attitudes, interventions are needed to ensure good knowledge of tuberculosis.
O-237 EVALUATING WORK ABILITY IN A DENTAL SURGERY RESIDENT DIAGNOSED WITH IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS: A REPORTED CASE
Authors: Darid Fadwa , Wifaq Kamal , Tahri Loubna , Jbara Meriem , El Kholti Abdeljalil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Scoliosis is a deformity of the spinal column. Predominantly idiopathic (80%), scoliosis has a significant impact on professional life, hence the interest of our study to assess scoliosis functional impact and determine work ability in a dental surgery resident at the IBN ROCHD University Hospital (CHUIR).

Methods
A medical examination was carried out in the Occupational Health Department at the CHUIR. An evaluation was established by a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist where X-rays of the spine were taken. Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22r) questionnaire was used. It measures quality of life across 5 domains – Function, Pain, Self-Image, Mental Health (5 questions each), Satisfaction/Dissatisfaction (2 questions). The higher scores representing greater patient quality of life.

Results
The resident is 25 years old, diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis (IS). Cobb angle was 29,6°, Muscular testing in upper and lower limb was normal SRS-22r questionnaire revealed: Function:4.8/5; Pain: 4.2/5; Self-image: 4.8/5; Mental health: 4.8/5; Satisfaction/dissatisfaction with management: 2.5/5. The resident’s fitness for the workstation has been confirmed. We recommended nonetheless appropriate care and supervision of his health status.

Discussion
Prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis (IS) varies from 0.93 to 12% worldwide in 2016. Factors like deformity and physical discomfort can affect the IS patients’ quality of life. Sources affirm that no profession is forbidden, but hard manual jobs are not recommended.

Conclusion
Scoliosis can significantly affect quality of life, hence specialized care and appropriate adaptation of the workstation are essential.
P-375 INTEREST OF NETWORKING IN TRAINING FOR PROMOTING OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (OSH) IN MOROCCO
Authors: El kholti Abdeljalil , Wifaq Kamal , Tahri Loubna , Soltani Sara , El Kholti Rim 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Networking plays a significant role in training for promoting occupational health and safety (OHS). It offers numerous benefits that contribute to the effectiveness and success of OHS training programs. What’s the contribution of USAT of FMPC, UH2C, during the last 30 years.

Methods and Results
USAT used networking in OHS training in tree direction: North-South Networking (Knowledge Transfer and Capacity Building, Technical Assistance, Collaborative Research, Policy Harmonization); South-North Networking (Learning from Successes, Cultural Sensitivity, Diverse Perspectives); South-South Networking (Shared Experiences, Resource Sharing, Regional Solutions, Advocacy and Policy Influence)

Discussion
Networking events provide a platform for discussing important OHS issues and advocating for better workplace safety standards. By connecting with like-minded professionals, participants can amplify their efforts to promote OHS awareness and positive change.

Conclusion
Networking in OHS training enhances learning, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among professionals in the field. During the last 30 years, USAT was a key player using networking as an important tool to support the development of effective training programs, encourages innovation, and contributes to the overall improvement of workplace health and safety practices.