bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-548 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR SMALL-SCALE WORKPLACES PROVIDED BY AN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSE IN JAPAN
Authors: NAKAO Yumi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Small-scale workplaces with fewer than 50 employees (SSW) are not mandated but recommended to assign an occupational physician (OHP) by Occupational Health and Safety Law; however, most SSWs do not appoint an OHP. To support workplaces without OHP, the government establishes Regional Occupational Health Centers (ROHCs) in cooperation with regional medical associations which cover all regions within Japan. ROHC have assignments with occupational health nurses (OHNs) and provides minimal support for SSWs; however, the budgetary limitation of the government prevents repeated services to SSWs. Therefore, the author is promoting additional occupational health services to SSW as an independent OHN.

Results and Discussion
The author has conducted occupational health services to meet the specific needs of SSWs both as an appointed OHN at a ROHC and also as a consultant at private businesses for a decade. The provided services enabled employers and employees to become aware of their occupational health hazards and to encourage the reduction of risks. Regarding support for returning to work, the author facilitated cooperation with employees, medical doctors, managers and employers to promote adaptation of the work for the workers involved. These collaborations aided in building the reliance between medical providers and the company.

Conclusion
The occupational health services have become gradually more widespread; however, they are not yet sufficiently recognized by SSWs in Japan. It is important to keep the promotion of information and raise awareness to induce self-directed occupational health management among SSWs.
P-553 PERIODIC CONSULTATIONS PERFORMED BY OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSES IN BELGIUM
Authors: Van Gulck Valérie , Coene Matthias , Gilissen Liesbeth 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Belgian occupational health services (OSH), such as IDEWE, support employers to comply with the legally required medical health surveillance of their workers. During these periodic consultations, the occupational health physician (OHP) verifies that the worker is medically fit to perform his job and the occupational health nurses (OHN) assists the OHP by performing the technical examinations. Since 2014, part of the periodic consultations at IDEWE,i.e, generally one in two, are performed only by OHN according to a specific script and with the agreement of the employer. In this study we aim to evaluate the involvement of OHN in the consultations over the years.

Methods
Retrospective analysis of the consultations performed at IDEWE since 2014.

Results and Discussion
Over the years, a clear increase in the number of consultations performed by OHN was seen, ranging from 158 in 2014 to 104.308 in 2022. In the first years, an OHP’s supervision was requested by an OHN,this for 44% of these periodic consultations, but in recent years this stagnated to only 15%. The most important reasons for asking supervision were work-related health problems based on the anamnesis, the criteria for supervision included in the script, or at the request of the worker himself.

Conclusion
The involvement of OHN in periodic consultations increases over the years, while the support they need from OHP decreases. This highlights the evolution of the OHN’s role in mandatory periodic health surveillance into a full-fledged discipline in first-line prevention that guides workers to the appropriate expert for work-related health problems.
O-364 DEVELOPMENT OF A JOB EXPOSURE MATRIX FOR ESTIMATING OCCUPATIONAL HEAT EXPOSURE: THE EPHOR EUROJEM
Authors: Pronk Anjoeka , Scholten Bernice , Kelly Blaise , Kingma Boris , Schlünssen Vivi , Gosh Manosij , Notø Hilde , Turner Michelle C , Solovieva Svetlana , Ge Calvin , Kolstad Henrik , Selander Jenny 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
With climate change occupational heat stress is an increasing concern. For studying its health effects in cohort studies, objective systematic characterization of occupational heat stress is needed. Within the EU EPHOR project we develop a European job exposure matrix (JEM) for assignment of indoor and outdoor occupational heat exposure by job title and region.

Methods
A conceptual modular framework including thermal environment and job characteristics has been developed for the assessment of total annual working hours above the wet bulb globe temperature reference value by job (ISCO88(COM)) and region, based on ISO 7243 (WBGT) and 9920 (clothing). Outdoor thermal environment is modelled across Europe using historical meteorological data including temperature, radiation, humidity and windspeed. Occupational characteristics, i.e. percentage of time spent indoors, presence of temperature control and a local source, work clothing and occupational physical activity, are based on existing data and expert judgment.

Results
First results of the environmental modeling demonstrate a clear regional pattern across Europe. The assessment of a time trend due to climate change and of the occupational input parameters are ongoing. The presentation will provide an overview of the framework and a preliminary heat JEM.

Discussion and conclusion
Combining many factors such as meteorology and local sources, physical activity and clothing complicated JEM development. By basing the JEM on a transparent modular framework, it will be updatable when more objective data become available or extendable to other regions. This JEM can be used to study health effect of occupational heat exposures in European cohorts.
O-369 THE EFFECTS OF CONSTANT AMBIENT TEMPERATURE ON ALERTNESS: POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF DYNAMIC CONDITIONS IN OFFICES
Authors: Christoforou Rania , Pallubinsky Hannah , Maria Tobias , Rewitz Kai , El-Mokadem Mahmoud , Bardey Janine , Müller Dirk , Schweiker Marcel 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Studies support the association of core body temperature with the circadian rhythm and cognitive performance aspects, including alertness. Additionally, evidence shows that lower ambient temperatures improve cognitive performance. However, less is known on the dynamic effect of ambient temperature on alertness, which could also follow the circadian rhythm. This study aimed to investigate changes in alertness throughout the day under two different thermal conditions.

Methods
Participants (NTotal=31, NFemale=16, NMale=15, Average age: 40.7 years) attended a two-day hybrid (laboratory and field) study, which included a cross-over design exposure to two different thermal conditions (cool condition: 21 °C, warm condition: 28 °C) for 8 hours in a simulated office environment. They were asked to answer questions on how alert they were feeling at regular intervals throughout the day, also in their home environment. Ambient temperature was monitored continuously with the use of a non-commercial, tailor-made sensor.

Results
The results indicate an interaction effect of condition-by-time on the levels of reported alertness (F(15, 21)=6.245, p =.01). Participants reported being more alert in the morning, when they were exposed to the warm condition, compared to the cool condition. However, a sudden reduction in alertness level was observed in the afternoon when they were exposed to the warm condition, compared to the cool condition, in which participants showed increases in alertness.

Discussion
These outcomes suggest that constant temperatures in offices might not be ideal for enhanced alertness.

Conclusion
It is suggested that offices might benefit from dynamic temperature exposures that go against the circadian rhythm of body temperature.
O-371 HIGH HEAT DAYS, THERMAL IMPACTS AND EMERGENCY PRESENTATIONS ACROSS RURAL SOUTHWEST VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA
Authors: Brumby Susan , Adams Jessie , Kloot Kate , Baker Tim , Hewson Elvira 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Heat kills more Australians than other natural disasters. On high heat days increased presentations to metropolitan emergency departments (EDs) are reported with little research on rural/regional locations where outdoor workers (farmers) are at thermal risk.

Aim
This study aimed to determine if ED presentations across the rural southwest region of Victoria, Australia increased on high-heat days in farming and non-farming populations.

Materials and Methods
This retrospective study used the Rural Acute Hospital Register (RAHDaR) to investigate heat-related presentations to nine emergency departments (ED) located in rural southwest Victoria between 1st February 2017 and January 2020. The ICD-10-AM (Australian Modification) codes associated with heat-impacted conditions were identified from previous research. High-heat days equaled temperatures above 95th percentile.

Results
There were 61,632 presentations of residents from the nine EDs during the 453 study days. Of these, 3,064 (5.0%) were on high-heat days and 58,568 (95.0%) on non-high heat days. Injury was the most common presentation. On days of high-heat, farmers were 17% less likely to present than non-farmers. However, presentations for circulatory and respiratory conditions increased on high-heat days for farmers. Farmers were more likely to arrive by private transport.

Conclusion
There is a need for localised public health responses at specific temperature thresholds. Days of high heat saw increased risk of circulatory and respiratory illness particularly for farming communities. However, lower presentations for injuries on high-heat days was seen for both cohorts. New research on comparing ED presentations before heat day with high heat day and 3 days after will be presented.
P-557 CURRENT SITUATION AND COUNTERMEASURES FOR HEAT-RELATED ILLNESSES IN JAPAN
Authors: Togawa Mai , Nagano Chikage , Horie Seichi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Heat strokes have become a serious occupational health problem in Japan. Therefore, the Japanese government has released a series of guidelines to prevent them.

Methods
We collected the official reports publicized by the Occupational Health Division of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan and summarized the number of work-related cases of heat-related illnesses in Japan, as well as the preventive measures officially recommended in the documents.

Results
In 2022, the number of heat-related illnesses in the workplace required 4 or more workday loss was 827 including 30 fatalities. Cases occurred in the construction and in the manufacturing industries accounted for 179 and 145, respectively. Labour inspectors investigated the fatal cases and pointed out the failures to measure Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) in 25 cases, to perform emergency response training in 26 cases, and to deliver emergency care in 28 cases.

Discussion
The governmental guideline named “STOP! Heat Stroke Cool Work Campaign” has been announced every year since 2017 and repeatedly emphasized the importance of WBGT; however, it seems its measurement are still uncommon. As various devices and websites are now available to directly measure or estimate WBGT all over Japan, it is expected that its measurement will become widespread to prevent heat-related illnesses arising at work by the end of the five-year national plan for preventing occupational diseases.
O-379 COMPLEX NOISE MEASUREMENT AND EVALUATION BASED ON NOISE KURTOSIS ADJUSTMENT
Authors: Zhang Meibian 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hearing loss is a global public health concern. Occupational noise-induced deafness is the second most common occupational disease after pneumoconiosis in China. The prevalence of hearing loss among manufacturing workers was 21.3%. Non-steady noise (complex noise) is the primary type of industrial noise to which workers are exposed. Existing noise standards do not consider the temporal structure of noise, resulting in an inaccuracy of complex noise measurements and an underestimation of hearing loss.

Methods
Our Chinese team applied a cross-sectional survey to collect data about noise exposure and hearing loss from more than 4000 manufacturing workers.

Results
The temporal structure of noise was a risk factor for occupational hearing loss. Noise kurtosis, a sensitive indicator indirectly reflecting the temporal structure, could be an auxiliary parameter to adjust the noise equivalent sound level. The adjusted noise level had a good dose-response relationship with hearing loss risk, which could help reduce the underestimation of occupational hearing loss predicted by the ISO 1999 model, and effectively assess the occupational hearing loss caused by different types of noise.

Discussion and conclusion
Kurtosis and its adjustment for noise level can be applied to revise the existing noise exposure standards or risk management guideline.
P-573 CRYOGLOBULINS AND COLD AGGLUTININS FOR HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME
Authors: Alsaidi Yaqoub 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) affects the vascular, neurological and musculoskeletal systems. The vascular component of HAVS is a form of secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon. Secondary causes must be excluded before attributing the cause to hand transmitted vibration. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, and utility of testing for, cryoglobulins and cold agglutinins in patients with HAVS symptoms.

Methods
A retrospective cohort study of 1183 patients referred for HAVS clinical assessment at St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Canada, between 2014 and 2020. Data were retrieved from patient chart review and laboratory investigation results for all cases with cryoglobulin and cold agglutinin testing.

Results
Serum cryoglobulin measurement showed eleven patients were positive. Seven of them were ‘low titre’ (1% positive) and the other four results were 2%, 6%, 9% and 18%. There were no positive cold agglutinin tests in the 795 patients tested.

Discussion
History and abnormal laboratory parameters including CBC, ESR RF and ANA are the best guides for conducting a cryoglobulin test while cold agglutinins testing appears to have no utility in the evaluation of vascular HAVS. By testing patient who has an autoimmune disease or medical condition associated with cryoglobulinaemia, or RF are positive with or without ANA, or abnormal CBC, or ESR and clinical presentation is suggestive of cryoglobulinaemia, 9 of the 11 positive cases would have been detected from 1183 patients tested that account for &lt;1%.

Conclusions
Routine testing for cryoglobulins and cold agglutinins in patients with HAVS symptoms is not recommended because test positivity rates are negligible.
P-574 SALIVA CORTISONE IN NOISE-EXPOSED WORKERS
Authors: Žaja Roko , Stipičević Sanja , Ries Mihael , Milošević Milan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Human saliva and blood cortisol are biomarkers of noise-induced stress. In the salivary glands, the free fraction of blood cortisol is converted into the saliva cortisone, which is more concentrated in saliva than the cortisol. Data on the saliva cortisone concentration in noise-exposed workers are scarce.

Methods
The study included 104 (57.7% male and 42.3% female) 19-30 years old participants split in two groups. A group of 50 workers was regularly exposed to occupational noise (loud music and machines) 1-2 years before the enrolment in the study. The level of intensity was at least 85 dB(A), and exposure to ototoxic solvents was excluded. Another group of 54 medical students was not exposed to occupational noise. Saliva was collected by a synthetic fiber roll that was kept in the mouth and then centrifuged. In extracted saliva, the cortisone and the cortisol were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. All of the participants were not currently using oral or intranasal corticosteroids.

Results
Saliva cortisone concentration was significantly higher in noise-exposed workers (32.4, IQR 18.5-49.8 nmol/L) compared to students (21.2, IQR 18.0-23.6 nmol/L), P&lt;0.001. Saliva cortisol concentration was significantly higher in noise-exposed workers (6.9, IQR 8.7-11.2 nmol/L) compared to students (6.8, IQR 6.1-7.1 nmol/L), P&lt;0.001.

Discussion
Noise-exposed workers had high saliva concentrations of both cortisone and cortisol.

Conclusion
Further investigations should consider other causes of the increased saliva cortisone concentration, and explore correlation between saliva cortisone and audiological findings of noise-induced hearing loss. Conclusion Saliva cortisone could be considered as a biomarker of noise-induced stress.
P-577 A TIME-DEPENDENT HOLISTIC MODEL OF HEARING PROTECTION DEVICES (HPD) USE: THE EFFECT OF TIME ON HPD COMFORT AND HPD-RELATED HEALTH BEHAVIORS
Authors: Gauvin Chantal , Negrini Alessia , Terroir Jonathan , Jolly Caroline , Martin Laurence , Doutres Olivier 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hearing protection devices (HPDs) are widely used to reduce noise exposure in workplaces. The effectiveness of this noise control strategy is questionable, however, as HPDs are sometimes not used at all, or are used inconsistently and/or incorrectly.

Methods
Understanding these unhealthy behaviors and their origins is therefore essential in order to propose solutions to improve the effectiveness of this preventive measure against noise-induced hearing loss.

Results
Numerous models based on social cognition theories identified the significant factors facilitating or hindering the workers’ health behaviors related to the HPDs use. Nevertheless, these models did not focus on physical and psychosocial characteristics of the triad “environment/person/HPD” which can influence HPDs use. Following a transdisciplinary approach, this communication presents a time-dependent holistic model of HPD use, based on the integration of a comfort model adapted to HPDs into an existing behavioral model. A comfort model dedicated to HPDs was first developed to account for the complex mechanisms from which comfort-related barriers and benefits originate. This model was then integrated in an existing social cognition model to predict HPD-related health behaviors accounting for the comfort dimensions (physical, functional, acoustical, psychological) and the influence of the triad.

Discussion and conclusion
Finally, the temporal dimension of behavioral change was taken into account to capture the scope of change in HPD-related health behaviors. This holistic description of HPDs use could be applied to: (i) identify the characteristics of the triad significantly associated to comfort and HPD-related health behaviors; (ii) improve hearing protection training programs; and (iii) increase HPDs use to prevent hearing loss among workers.
O-385 POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION AMONG WOMEN RETURNING TO WORK ONE YEAR AFTER DELIVERY: A FOLLOW-UP STUDY IN BEIJING, CHINA
Authors: Zhao Jian , Zhang Min 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a critical public health concern with detrimental effects on maternal well-being and child development. This study aimed to examine the depression status and related factors among working postpartum women.

Methods
A cohort of 424 postpartum women from ten community health service centers in six Beijing districts was investigated. Sociodemographic, occupational, and childbirth information was collected from Maternal Health Manuals and Community Maternal and Child Health Records. One year after childbirth, data on breastfeeding, maternity care, and depression status using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) were obtained. Prevalence of PPD was assessed in relation to occupational characteristics, and influencing factors were analyzed through logistic regression.

Results
27.83% of postpartum women met the criteria for depression (EPDS score ≥ 13). PPD prevalence was significantly higher among women employed in business and enterprise management (35.80%) compared to unemployed individuals, physical workers, and professionals, government office & public institution employees (20.78%, 20.75%, 25.00%, respectively). Among women employed in business and enterprise management, receiving care from relatives (OR=0.389, 95%CI: 0.185-0.815) is negatively associated with PPD. Conversely, middle-income status (OR=5.774, 95%CI: 2.092-15.940), shorter maternity leave (OR=2.099, 95%CI: 1.005-4.385), having a baby with poor health (OR=2.392, 95%CI: 1.067-5.361), and mixed feeding (OR=2.461, 95%CI: 1.172-5.169) were positively associated with PPD.

Discussion and conclusion
PPD prevalence is notably elevated among women employed in business and enterprise management, and specific risk factors contribute to its occurrence. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address these risk factors and prevent PPD in this population.
O-388 FROM PERIOD POVERTY TO PERIOD POSITIVITY- EFFECTIVENESS OF WORKPLACE WELLNESS INITIATIVES ACROSS GARMENT FACTORIES IN INDIA
Authors: Joseph Merlyn , Joseph Bobby , Dishani Madonne Rufina 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Many women in the Indian subcontinent experience societal taboos, social isolation, and harassment during menstruation. This plight is exacerbated among garment workers, many of whom are migrants subjected to arduous work conditions and limited healthcare access. Objectives: This study aims to gauge the impact of a Training of Trainers (ToT) model on menstrual health awareness and practices within the apparel manufacturing sector in India.

Methods
Employing a quantitative before-and-after approach, the study encompassed 483 participants from 15 Indian factories and 3 Sri Lankan counterparts, selected through convenience sampling. Female workers were educated through a multi-module approach, covering reproductive health, menstrual hygiene, and innovative menstrual products. These workers were then empowered to share this knowledge within their factory communities through visual aids and presentations. Data analysis utilized SPSS v.21 and included z-proportion tests and paired t-tests.

Results
The majority of participants were under 35 years (72%) with a mean age of 30.8±8.4 years, most having attained secondary education (40%). While 45.3% faced menstrual issues, only 29.8% sought healthcare. Enhanced awareness about eco-friendly menstrual products and menstrual impact was evident, with menstrual cup usage increasing from 0.2% to 6.6% (p&lt;0.001). Positive practices such as timely pad disposal and hygienic practices improved significantly.

Discussion-Conclusion
Challenges encompassed discomfort, staining, extended work hours, and inadequate pad access. The study underscores the effectiveness of targeted peer-led menstrual hygiene training in advancing women’s awareness, practices, and perspectives on menstruation. To further promote inclusivity and sensitivity, the involvement of factory management and male workers is recommended.