bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SS32-02 OCCUPATIONAL HEAVY METAL POISONING CASES IN MOROCCO
Authors: Chaoui Hanane , Rhalem Naima , Soulaymani Bencheikh Rachida 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
The objective of our study was to describe the epidemiological features of occupational heavy metal poisoning cases recorded by the Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance Centre of Morocco (CAPM) between 1980 and 2022.

Methods
We conducted a cross sectional study including occupational heavy metal poisoning cases notified to CAPM between 1980 and 2022.

Results
We recorded 27,545 cases of poisoning notified to the CAPM (all substances), from which 96 were related to heavy metal poisoning cases (0,34%). From these 96 cases, we recorded 15 cases of occupational poisonings (15%). Among these 15 cases, lead was incriminated in 10 cases and lead with mercury in five cases. Five cases occurred in clandestine lead mines, three cases occurred in a clandestine battery recycling factory, and five cases were associated with silver mining. All the cases were males, and the mean age was 37 years. The mean blood lead level was 539,58µg/L [181-1040] before treatment, and 383,33 [62-616] after treatment (p =0,49); the mean blood mercury level was 239 µg/L [87-430] before treatment, and 38,7 µg/L [13,3-25,4] after treatment (p=0,8). The mean urinary mercury level was 246,33 µg/L. The treatment received was DMSA (2,3-dimercaptosuccinique acid). The DMSA was used in 13 cases (86 %) at a dose of 30mg/kg/day, three times daily during five days.

Conclusion
Occupational heavy metal poisoning cases in Morocco are a reality. The main substances incriminated were lead followed by mercury. Almost all cases needed chelation. More screening and prevention actions are needed.
SS32-05 ROLE OF TOXICOLOGICAL ANALYSIS IN BIOLOGICAL MONITORING
Authors: Badrane Narjis , Soulaymani Bencheikh Rachida 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
We conducted a literature review to highlight the interest of toxicological analysis as a tool for biological monitoring in the management of exposure to chemicals in the workplace.

Methods
Three databases, Embase, Pubmed, and Scopus, were searched in English and French languages without date restriction.

Results
Biological monitoring may assess individual exposure to chemicals by different routes, providing additional information for occupational risk assessment, from hazard identification to the control of prevention measures. Biological monitoring considers the internal dose and biological effective dose, regardless of the source or pathway. The most important biological samples used are urine, blood, and occasionally, exhaled air and alternative matrices. It is crucial to select an adequate sampling strategy. Accuracy, precision, reproducibility, recovery, sensitivity and specificity of analytical methods have high influence on the consistency with the limit and reference values concerned. Different analytical techniques can be used (e.g. high performance liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, tandem mass spectrometry, capillary electrophoresis). Among the limits of biological monitoring, we can cite that biomarkers are usually unable to specify the source of the exposure and may not be sufficiently specific to a particular chemical.

Conclusion
Biological monitoring can help in exposure assessment of speciﬁc chemicals, characterisation of exposure pathways and potential risks.
SS33-04 THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PARADOX IN CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH: EVIDENCE AND PREVENTION
Authors: Clays Els , Ketels Margo , Holtermann Andreas 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Recent research has increasingly demonstrated that the impact of physical activity varies based on its contextual setting. While the health benefits of physical activity during leisure time are widely acknowledged, the positive effects do not seem to extend to physical activity undertaken during working hours. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as the 'physical activity health paradox'.

Materials and Methods
This presentation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence concerning the physical activity health paradox and its implications for cardiovascular disease prevention.

Results
A growing body of evidence has highlighted the potential for occupational physical activity to elevate the risk for cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. Various potential explanatory mechanisms have been suggested to shed light on the paradoxical effects between occupational and leisure time physical activity. These mechanisms encompass distinctions in factors such as type, intensity, duration and recovery patterns, resulting in divergent physiological responses. The research field faces methodological challenges related to exposure classification, reliance on subjective self-reports, and the presence of residual confounding, which remain subjects of debate. A limited number of studies have explored the impact of psychosocial job resources, such as job control and social support, as potential confounding variables or moderating factors.

Conclusions
The available body of evidence underscores the need for prevention guidelines that differentiate between various contexts of physical activity. Moreover, there is a call to tailor physical activity recommendations to subgroups facing particular needs.
SS34-01 THE WORKPLACE HEALTH WITHOUT BORDERS ETHOS AND SERVICE DELIVERY IN A NUTSHELL
Authors: Levitsky Marianne , Galvin Jennifer 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Workplace Health Without Borders (WHWB) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting international occupational health. This presentation will provide an overview of WHWB, and share what we have learned about the ethos and culture of the global occupational health / hygiene community.

Materials and Methods
WHWB’s vision is ‘a world where workers, their families and communities do not get ill because of their work’. Our mission is ‘to prevent work-related disease around the world through shared expertise, knowledge and skills’. An entirely volunteer organization, WHWB leverages the expertise of its members, including occupational hygienists and healthcare professionals, to offer training, mentoring and technical assistance on projects to help local partners assess and control work-related hazards.

Results
Since its founding in 2011, WHWB has built a global network of volunteers dedicated to building international capacity for preventing work-related injury and illness. Our achievements have included numerous training programs, both in-person and virtual, that have educated occupational health / hygiene professionals who lack access to such education. Our committees devoted to specific issues, such as brick kilns, waste picking, nail salons and asbestos, have conducted projects to provide training, or assess and control hazards.

Conclusions
WHWB has demonstrated that occupational hygienists, physicians and other professionals have a vast reservoir of expertise that they are willing to share to build international occupational health / hygiene capacity. The expertise of volunteers is a valuable resource in improving global health, and a testament to the collaborative culture and dedication of the occupational health community.
SS34-05 WORKPLACE HEALTH WITHOUT BORDERS (WHWB) PROJECTS: THE DEVIL IS IN THE MEASUREMENTS!
Authors: Verpaele Steven 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Many WHWB projects require exposure measurements. Knowing that in many cases the resources to perform measurements and analyses are not available, a specific program has been developed to ensure that projects can meet these needs in a sustainable manner.

Materials and Methods
To assist local experts, authorities and workers, specific training on exposure assessment was provided. This training consisted of an overview of applicable international standards related to the measurement of chemical agents in the workplace and an application session in which practical training of experts was developed and provided for the specific measurement methods needed for the project. At the same time, a system for materials donation and capacity-building for simple laboratory analyses was offered.

Results
Since the inception of the program, approximately US$50,000 worth of equipment and materials have been donated to various worker exposure assessment organizations. MOUs were signed between the Belgian Center for Occupational Hygiene (BeCOH) and these organizations to conduct the analyses and provide the necessary consumables at no cost, and to keep the projects and relationships sustainable. A total of 1,055 samples, including air and biological samples, were analyzed for various chemicals, such as silica, metals, and metalloids. The repeated training programs paid off, as the initial 30% of samples which were dropped due to problems during sampling, reduced to only 10% more recently.

Conclusions
Good specific training and properly functioning equipment are essential when setting up measurement programs in low- and middle-income countries to ensure that important exposure data of workers in these countries is not lost.
SS35-02 TELEWORKING TO SUPPORT ACCOMMODATION, INCLUSION, AND HEALTH OF WORKERS WITH CHRONIC ILLNESSES: DESIGN AND VALIDATION OF THE LOGIC MODEL OF A REFLECTIVE UTILIZATION GUIDE
Authors: Lecours Alexandra , Hong Quan Nha , Maclure Joanie , Bédard Mercier Roxanne , Vincent Claude , Boucher Normand , le Lord Marie-Michè 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Despite some exploratory work suggesting courses of action to use telework as a modality facilitating accommodation, inclusion and health among singular populations of workers, such as people with physical disabilities, no guidelines are available to ensure a healthy application of telework among people having chronic illnesses. This study aimed to develop a reflective telework utilization guide to support the accommodation, inclusion, and health of workers with chronic illnesses.

Methods
Focus groups with teleworkers and individual interviews with managers enabled collecting qualitative data to generate the logic model of a reflective telework utilization guide. A validation process was also undertaken.

Results
Preliminary results highlight the concerns and recommendations of workers and managers regarding telework and its ability to support accommodation, inclusion and health. The logical model that was generated and validated is presented.

Discussion
On a practical level, the guide represents a concrete tool that managers and workers can use. This study’s research contribution is to pave the way for other projects aimed at developing innovative and effective solutions in promoting the accommodation, inclusion, and health of workers with chronic illnesses. Finally, on a societal level, the study results help to explain the influence of telework on the health and inclusion of all workers and encourage people to use the guide to promote healthy participation in telework.

Conclusion
This study proposes a concrete tool to support healthy work participation of workers with chronic illnesses, a growing population that forms an indispensable and qualified resource, especially in the context of the labour shortage.
SS36-01 E-WASTE PROCESSING IN THE INFORMAL WORK SECTOR: A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: D’Souza Clive , Acquah Augustine A , Martin Bernard J , Fobil Julius N 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Global waste from discarded electrical and electronic equipment, commonly known as e-waste, is projected to increase from 53.6 million tons (MT) in 2019 to 74.7MT by 2030. Formal recycling in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) has not kept pace with the staggering growth of e-waste. Compounding this problem is the vast amounts of e-waste shipped from high-income countries to LMICs for re-use. Most e-waste processing in LMICs is informal, performed by low-skill workers as a source of income. This presentation will review existing research on informal e-waste and its implications to the occupational and environmental health with a focus on e-waste workers in LMICs.

Materials and Methods
A literature review and synthesis on informal e-waste processing and its health effects were conducted.

Results
Informal e-waste processing in LMICs relies on rudimentary manual work methods with adverse consequences to the health of humans and the environment from exposure to toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and airborne particulate matter. The physical work demands are associated with high rates of acute injuries, chronic musculoskeletal disorders, noise exposure, and psychosocial stress. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is rare. Informal e-waste workers are uneducated and uninformed about the health effects of e-waste work, safe work practices, use of PPE, or how to advocate for safer work conditions.

Conclusions
Research on the design, implementation, and evaluation of ergonomics interventions to address the occupational hazards of informal e-waste processing is needed. Increased international inter-professional collaborations in the occupational health community can help to improve health and safety of vulnerable workers engaged in informal e-waste processing.
SS36-02 INFORMAL E-WASTE PROCESSING AT AGBOGBLOSHIE, GHANA, AND THE WEST AFRICA-MICHIGAN CHARTER II FOR GEOHEALTH
Authors: D’Souza Clive , Acquah Augustine A , Martin Bernard J , Fobil Julius N 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Large quantities of end-of-life electronics make their way into Agbogbloshie, one of the largest e-waste sites in the world where they are recycled by low-skilled low-wage workers as a form of livelihood. Workers use basic methods and tools in the recycling process that predisposes them to occupational health problems. This presentation will outline the processes involved in informal e-waste recycling in Agbogbloshie, Accra, Ghana, and highlight associated problems.

Materials and Methods
Field observations, worker interviews, dialogue with stakeholders and empirical studies conducted under the GEOHealth–II Project were used to detail the processes involved in informal e-waste recycling and associated occupational and environmental health challenges.

Results
E-waste processing in Agbogbloshie is unstructured, unregulated and involves collecting, sorting, and dismantling end-of-life electronics to recover valuable metal constituents. Occasionally, some collected electronics get refurbished and resold. Items such as electrical wires that cannot be dismantled are burnt in the open to recover copper. Personal protective equipment is seldomly used. The recycling methods used result in a high prevalence of physical injuries (96.2%) and musculoskeletal disorders (90%). Workers are also exposed to toxic substances and fumes during burning that cause eye and respiratory tract irritations. Spirometry data showed reduced lung function from particulate matter exposure.

Conclusions
Informal e-waste processing in Agbogbloshie is done using unsafe recycling methods that present numerous health challenges. Global health mitigation measures are urgently needed to address this occupational health menace.
SS37 OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH AND DECENT WORK
Authors: Schulte Paul A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The session builds on the published paper ‘Occupational Safety and Health Staging Framework for Decent Work’ (IJERPH 2022).
The framework is a matrix that has the four ILO pillars of decent work on one axis and eight determinants on the other axis resulting in 32 cells where the axes interact. The focus of the session will be presenting on the investigation of the OSH issues in the various cells.
SS37-01 OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH AND DECENT WORK: OVERVIEW
Authors: Schulte Paul A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The concept of “decent work” has been utilized by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations to refer to the quality and dignity of work for all people.

Materials and Methods
The purpose of this research effort is to identify how the occupational safety and health field can further stretch and evolve to foster decent work. The effort builds on a staging framework published in 2022 that encompasses 32 cells in a matrix bound by four ILO pillars of decent work (employment creation; social protection; right of workers; social dialogue) and eight specific determinants (new and emerging hazards and risks, demographics (age and gender); globalization; informal work; migration; climate change; pandemics; and workplace policies). A team of 14 investigators is collaborating in this effort.

Results
The work of the future as indicated in the matrix will have increasing exposures to psychosocial hazards and require broader accounting of socio-economic factors. Intermediate findings of this study include considering each cell in terms of target audiences: practitioners, researchers, advocates, decision / policy makers, and authorities, and educators; utilizing system thinking and transdisciplinary approaches to consider and address issues, and promoting more emphasis on translation science (implementation and dissemination research).

Conclusions
The occupational health and safety field is directly contributory to each pillar of decent work to varying extents. However, there may be ways that the field can expand. The challenge of this investigation is to identify how the field can stretch in practical and innovative ways.
SS37-02 DECENT WORK AND AGING WORKERS
Authors: Fischer Frida Marina , Martinez Maria Carmen , Cotrim Teresa , Oakman Jodi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Determinants of decent work are factors that can positively or negatively influence health and wellbeing. They include sociodemographic changes, such as the aging of the workforce (Schulte et al. 2022). The aging workforce will require workers to have a longer working life, and employers will need to rely on an increasingly older workforce (ILO, 2019). This situation poses challenges for occupational health and safety, including actions that promote and maintain work ability and employability and delay retirement (Fischer et al. 2021).
The pillars that support decent work are: job creation, social protection, rights of workers, social dialogue. Specific actions should be aiming at retaining older workers, ensuring the quality of work through reskilling and upskilling, providing health insurance, and preventing hazardous 3-D jobs (Schulte et al. 2022). Improvements at workplaces and environments should be considered, taking into account psychological and physiological changes associated with age.
Practitioners, researchers, policy makers, governments and advocates are to promote sustainable working conditions for older workers. Actions should include but are not limited to: regular health monitoring programs, systematic and ongoing training with age-appropriate strategies, promotion of personal development / employability, improvements in work organization, appropriate working hours, leisure time, as well as reintegration after periods of illness, work injury, temporary functional disability, or unemployment – these are all crucial. Negative effects of functional decline can be compensated for by strategies based on experience, knowledge, and skills acquired throughout life.
Acknowledgments: CNPq-productivity grant to FMF 306963/2021-3
SS38-03 MANAGEMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND HYGIENE IN THE CEMENT INDUSTRY
Authors: Haddad Redouane , Madadi Hicham 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Support for subcontractors is not limited to industrial safety but also to employee hygiene and health. Indeed, occupational medicine and hygiene at work are essential components in the support process.

Materials and Methods
Physical fitness and continuous medical monitoring are the main components of worker health monitoring. Medical surveillance is adapted to each workstation and its environment. Hygiene is also monitored through measurement campaigns and wellbeing at work.

Results and Conclusions
Subcontractors’ employees have evolved in their understanding of risk in the same way as own employees and actively participate in initiatives and the promotion of health and safety at work.
SS40 BOTTLENECKS AND SOLUTIONS IN STARTING AND PROGRESSING BASIC OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES (BOHS)
Authors: van Dijk Frank 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Universal Occupational Health Coverage is a key element in reducing social inequality, promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction. Basic Occupational Health Services (BOHS) and similar innovations, part of primary or community healthcare, can support the largest part of all workers having no access to expert-based occupational health services.
The session seeks to learn from existing practices in seven countries, varying from successful implemented new forms of occupational healthcare, basic occupational healthcare in early stages of development, and experiments while struggling on how to start. Accents can be different: on education of primary and community healthcare, on care for informal workers or on workers and farmers in agriculture.
Insights are shared in how to manage BOHS services, and in how to develop and evaluate the tasks, quality of care, effectiveness, costs, coverage, and the participatory approach. A supporting infrastructure and referral options cannot be missed. We expect to learn about challenges in the path towards BOHS focusing upon the primary healthcare approach.
During the final panel discussion, we will deliberate this issue further with international organizations and the audience. The session has the objective to increase awareness about the urgent need to create new occupational healthcare solutions appropriate for the majority of all workers. Another objective is knowledge dissemination of challenges to overcome and of solutions. International information can be shared. BOHS is a new and challenging topic for development, information, education, and research. We can wait no longer.
SS40-06 ITALY: SPECIAL ATTENTION TO IMPROVE LEVELS OF HEALTH COVERAGE IN AGRICULTURE
Authors: Colosio Claudio 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
One of the main problems existing in agriculture is a lack of access to health surveillance in the workplace. This is particularly critical, considering that agriculture is considered by the WHO one of the most dangerous and unhealthy working activities. Among agricultural workers, seasonal, family, and self-employed workers suffer the lowest levels of coverage and are not considered in the national laws, even in countries where the coverage is good, like Italy.

Materials and Methods
To increase the levels of coverage in the sector, a specific law decree has been promulgated in the country, addressed at seasonal workers. To comply with the new law, a targeted working group has been created by the Region of Lombardy, with a tripartite composition made of representatives of trade unions, of the employers’ associations and of academia and the public healthcare system.

Results
The working group stated that, according to the Alma Ata declaration, it is necessary to create structures able to bring healthcare close to the places where rural people live and work, through the creation of a "Territorial Integrated Prevention System" (TIPS), to be set up through the involvement of all the relevant actors and stakeholders. In these structures it should be possible to carry out health surveillance of workers, meetings, and training activities, and to set up prevention strategies.

Conclusions
The creation of the TIPS represents the first step to improve agricultural workers' access to health surveillance in the workplace, in particular of the most disadvantaged subgroups, in a sector of strategic relevance for prevention.