bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SS14-02 THE STATE OF THE ART ON THE EFFECTS AND THE BIOLOGICAL MONITORING OF NANOMATERIALS IN EXPOSED WORKERS
Authors: Iavicoli Ivo , Fontana Luca , Leso Veruscka 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The widespread production and application of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) and the consequent increasing occupational exposure make understanding ENM effects an occupational health priority. However, the great ENM variability, the low levels of exposure, the limited number of workers, and the still fragmented data on effects and biomarkers prevent the extrapolation of definite conclusions.

Materials and Methods
Epidemiological investigations addressing the possible adverse effects caused by the occupational exposure to ENMs and biological monitoring results have been reviewed.

Results
Retrieved studies were primarily performed on workers (from few to &lt;300 exposed individuals) employed in ENM research labs or in factories manufacturing and/or applicating metal, metal oxide or carbon-based ENMs. Limited evidence of adverse effects was available in terms of changes in respiratory functionality or symptoms. However, increased levels of biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress and, those of respiratory, cardiovascular, haematological and immunological alterations in urine, blood and exhaled breath condensate of exposed workers, although with some conflicting results, support the possible adverse impact of ENMs on human health. Additionally, epigenetic modifications have been reported in exposed workers, although implications for adverse health outcomes are still not clear.

Conclusions
Future investigations aimed to clarify the health effects of ENMs and appropriate biomarkers should include a longitudinal design, a greater number of workers, a deeper characterization of ENMs, and a suitable evaluation of the exposure. Overall, this may be helpful to implement adequate ENM risk assessment and management strategies.
SS15-02 PREVENTION OF ACCIDENTS THROUGH APPLICATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES AT LARGE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN INDIA
Authors: Sen Krishna Nirmalya , Muralidhar Gollapalli 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Employers are responsible to ensure occupational health, safety (OHS) and wellbeing of employees. Yet, large numbers of working populations in construction are prone to get affected at work, leading to high incidences of morbidity and mortality. Complex workplace conditions could aggravate this due to a multitude of factors. Fortunately, in recent years technological development has enhanced the capability of enhancing supervisory engagement and administrative overseeing on a continual basis.

Materials and Methods
Digital technological solutions can be applied at workplaces to prevent incidents and improve OHS performance. This includes, Building Information Modelling (BIM) which can improve project planning and execution, other digital applications for effective communication and collaboration, AI-enabled technology can help in remote and continuous surveillance, wearable sensing devices can be used for tracking and monitoring the targeted OHS attributes and parameters at various stages of the activities, and deliver precise support and insights to optimize the safety of the work site.

Results
Adoption of digital applications on multiple fronts resulted in marked improvement of OHS management parameters over the study period of 30 months. OHS compliance has improved which got reflected in OHS parameters resulting in reduction of incident frequency rates including near-misses.

Conclusions
Disruption by digital technologies is the order of the day. Since it has immense capabilities to support and enhance efficacy of traditional activities, we need to embrace it while trying to improve effectiveness and efficiency, leading towards reduced accidents including high potential near-miss incidents and operational excellence.
SS17-02 ENGAGING WITH STATE AND PRIVATE ACTORS TO EXTEND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY TO WORKERS IN INFORMAL EMPLOYMENT: BEST PRACTICES FROM THE WIEGO NETWORK
Authors: Braham Christy 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The majority of the world’s workers are informally employed, with 90% of all employment in developing countries being informal. Despite delivering an array of essential goods and services, workers in informal employment are often excluded from occupational health and safety provisions which, traditionally, only cover ‘formal’ workplaces and working arrangements - rendering them especially vulnerable to health risks.

Methods
In response, workers have mobilized within grassroots organizations to advocate for occupational health and safety (OHS) provisions at local, municipal and national level. These organizations - members of the Women in Informal Employment - Globalizing and Organizing [WIEGO] network - provide important examples of workers seeking accountability from the state and from private actors to extend the right to OHS to workers in informal employment.

Results
A home-based worker association in Thailand has worked with the state to integrate occupational health and safety services into primary healthcare, while domestic worker unions in South Africa have collaborated to successfully drive legal changes to secure compensation for illnesses, injuries and death caused by poor working conditions in private homes. Additionally, a trade union of waste-pickers in India has innovated to seek concessions from manufacturers whose production of waste in public spaces poses threats to workers’ health.

Conclusion
These initiatives offer important lessons on achieving OHS for workers in informal employment, challenging the notion of workers bearing full responsibility for occupational health and safety, and emphasizing the importance of both workers’ mobilization and active participation in political processes.
SS21-01 DEVELOPING APPROACHES FOR ASSESSMENT OF COMBINED EXPOSURES TO DIFFERENT ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Authors: Moretto Angelo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Regulatory authorities now consider exposure to multiple chemicals in the risk assessments of substances. While the attention was initially mostly on food, workers’ exposure, in particular farmers’, to pesticides are now looked at.

Materials and Methods
There is general acceptance that synergy at low doses does not occur, or is toxicologically insignificant, though it can occur at high doses, i.e. at doses that do not occur in controlled working conditions. For dissimilarly acting chemicals, there is no robust evidence of mixture effects below their individual no-effect levels; for these substances the combined exposure need not be evaluated.

Results
There are different ways of assessing the risk, including, among others, the Hazard Index and the Relative Potency approaches. In both cases, essential information includes toxicological dose-response, and intensity and duration (e.g. hours per day, days per year) of exposure. While toxicological data can be derived from the dossiers submitted by the manufacturers for registration of the active ingredient, exposure data are much more difficult to obtain.

Conclusions
Several models exits, such as that of the European Food Safety Authority, to estimate exposure based on different parameters associated with a specific application. Models take also into account personal protective equipment that is not always properly worn, and hence, in real life, models need to be adapted to such situations. However, little information is available on frequency of exposure, i.e. how many days per week/month/year. Frequency depends, among others, on the crop, the size of the fields and the disease to be treated.
SS21-05 CREATION AND VALIDATION OF A TOOL FOR PREVENTIVE RISK ASSESSMENT IN AGRICULTURE
Authors: Colosio Claudio , Rajcevic Stefan Mandic , Rubino Federico Maria , Lombardi Mara , Berardi Davide , Fargnoli Mario , Puri Daniele , Laurendi Vincenzo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Doing pesticide risk assessment in agriculture is very complicated, and the most used tools, biological and environmental monitoring, give information regarding risk after application has been done and not before. Therebefore, there is the need of creating tools adequate to the purpose of preventive risk assessment in agricultural activities. In this frame, we have worked at the creation of a tool adequate for the purpose and usable directly by the workers before starting application.

Materials and Methods
We have created an algorithm which closely follows the source-receptor model that has been long tested in the German Model, in the EU-POEM and in the EFSA model, and uses numerical constants for the deposition rates of pesticides and for the protection efficiency of clothing that are derived from in field studies and we have collected in a targeted database the main physical and chemical characteristics of the pesticides used in Italy.

Results
Cross linking occupational exposure risk with pesticide hazard class allows describing the planned operation in a contingency table that identifies unacceptable working conditions of exposure to hazardous pesticides and progressively safer conditions, towards the optimal one of low exposure to relatively benign products. The system is running in an application which can be easily uploaded an any smart phone. Conclusions Our tool enables farmers to decide before application whether the planned activities pose an unacceptable risk or not, and helps in deciding the most appropriate risk management interventions. The risk estimates provided by the model are now being validated in targeted in field studies.
SS22 INNOVATIONS IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH POLICY AND PRACTICE: PROMOTING THE FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT TO A SAFE AND HEALTHY WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Jain Aditya 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The changing social, economic, technological and environmental landscape impacts the availability and quality of work and employment in organizations across all sectors and in all regions of the world. In 2022, the principle of a safe and healthy working environment was added to the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. The landmark decision means that all ILO Member States commit to respect and promote the fundamental right to a safe and healthy working environment, whether or not they have ratified the relevant Conventions (e.g. C155, C187, C190) (ILO, 2022).
This initiative is expected to significantly help improve the implementation of occupational health policy and practice across the world, both in developed and developing countries, which will be examined and discussed in this session. The five presentations in this session will discuss the implications of the ILO’s landmark decision on countries around the world as well as on policies relating to health of women and vulnerable workers. The presentations provide examples of good practice to promote occupational health policy and practice, lessons from other policy arenas such as environmental law, and insight into current and future national policy initiatives. There are clear opportunities for policy makers to align both regulatory and other policy approaches on occupational health, safety and wellbeing, with regulatory mechanisms to protect and promote human rights, as well as standards to promote responsible business practices, which can not only help in optimization of resource use, but also promote OSH higher up the policy agenda.
SS23-03 BUILDING A POSITIVE AND SAFE CULTURE IN THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
Authors: Rallapalli Rajesh 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The chemical industry provides essential products for various sectors. However, its inherent complexities and potential hazards demand a strong commitment to fostering a positive and safe culture within the industry. Such a foundation begins with strong leadership commitment. Leaders must prioritize safety and promote a culture of open communication, where employees are empowered to report hazards and near misses without fear of retribution.
Implementing robust safety training programs tailored to the industry's unique risks equips employees with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and mitigate potential dangers effectively. Regular safety audits, incident investigations, and data-driven analysis help identify trends and areas for enhancement. Collaborative efforts among industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and research institutions facilitate the development and adoption of best practices and innovative technologies that enhance safety measures. The integration of behavioral safety initiatives complements technical protocols. Encouraging individual responsibility for safety fosters a collective commitment to risk reduction. Celebrating safety successes and promoting positive reinforcement mechanisms reinforce desired behaviors.
Hence, building a positive and safe culture in the chemical industry necessitates a multifaceted approach involving leadership commitment, comprehensive training, data-driven improvement, and behavioral interventions. By prioritizing the well-being of its workforce and surrounding communities, the industry can mitigate risks, prevent incidents, and contribute to sustainable development.
SS24 IARC MONOGRAPHS UPDATE: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES IN OCCUPATIONAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EXPOSURE CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: Schubauer-Berigan Mary 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This session describes the latest information about cancer hazard identification by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monographs programme. For more than 50 years, studies of carcinogens in the workplace have greatly informed evaluations in the WHO’s ‘encyclopedia of carcinogens’.
New features of the IARC Monographs’ Preamble, which lays out the scientific evaluation procedures, emphasize the importance of exposure characterization and of mechanistic evidence in exposed humans.
The three presentations that will be given by scientific leaders in the IARC Monographs programme will provide context for the future directions in cancer hazard identification by IARC and will provide inspiration to the occupational cancer research and prevention community.
SS27-04 A WORK CULTURE OF CORE VALUES: TEARING DOWN WALLS, BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS
Authors: Nicholas Robin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Work culture is personal. It is about how people experience their work, and ideally, how people can flourish in their work. Each person defines this culture with their own core values, relationships, and commitment.

Materials and Methods
Interviews with over 100 workers revealed their work culture. As people told their stories, they described what works, what does not, and what could work better. Further examples will illustrate how core values can tear down walls that obstruct good work, while building relationships that support our work.

Results
Because work culture is experienced, it is personal. It includes the whole person. The objective programs, protections, and regulations of work are important. However, the subjective, less-structured elements of being human are equally important. Neuroscience has revealed that we are feeling machines that happen to think, that we are motivated by internal values and emotional commitments based on our values. This is the strength of being human at work. However, the systems originally created to help protect us at work can create walls and obstacles. Some mindsets prevent us from examining our own systems, mindsets such as maintaining a system without question, pleasing authority, or over-thinking an issue. The solution to tearing down these walls lies within each of us as human beings — our core values, motivations, and commitments.

Conclusions
A healthy work culture celebrates people as whole human beings. We all share a balance of objective and subjective qualities, of human strengths and weaknesses. Our core values provide the tools to balance our work culture.
SS28-03 RESEARCH STRATEGIES FOR PREDICTING NEW RISKS AND THEIR ETHICAL CHALLENGES
Authors: Rantanen Jorma 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Numerous previously unknown risks appear in the modern world of work with systems-wide or global impact, such as climate change, new technologies, new biohazards, and psychosocial risks. We were practically and ethically unprepared for the recent mega risks and great efforts were needed to generate effective responses.

Materials and Methods
A literature overview was done on available methods for the identification of research challenges to our knowledge basis on modern occupational safety and health (OSH) risks. Strategies were analysed on prediction, preparedness, and risk management of recent mega-events with special emphasis on ethical conduct in the various steps of the process.

Results
A knowledge map was generated for research and ethical challenges to the growing uncertainty concerning modern OSH risks, such as the SARS-CoV-2 and its variants and the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Ethically sound strategies for risk identification, assessment, preparedness and early response were proposed.

Conclusions
Growing uncertainty in dealing with modern OSH risks and related challenges to professional and institutional ethics affect both the developing and developed world. Lessons on practical and ethical conduct in the recent mega-disasters can be utilized to enhance our ability to meet the next major events.
SS28-04 FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS OF WORK AND THEIR ETHICAL DIMENSIONS: FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE
Authors: Schulte Paul A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
While there are many factors that influence the future of work, technological change is anticipated to be major. There is a need to anticipate what the future of work could be and identify the ethical and occupational safety and health (OSH) challenges that could arise due to emerging technologies.

Materials and Methods
This analysis builds off a previously published systematic review of scientific and grey literature using 11 bibliographic databases to identify scenarios of the future of work and the safety, health, and wellbeing hazards that might arise. Particular attention is paid to the role of technology in the future of work. Influential in the future of work is the convergence of emerging technologies. This convergence raises new ethical questions that need to be addressed by the use of anticipatory ethics and attention to social context.

Results
Three categories of future work scenarios were identified and the role of technology was found to be a common feature. Ethical issues were identified that included work intensification, lack of autonomy, deleterious effects on workers’ privacy, workers’ discrimination, control of data, and impacts on dignity.

Conclusions
The literature on the future of work has limited information on classic OSH hazards and is more focused on socioeconomic hazards, such as job loss from technological disruption. Psychosocial hazards have been identified as the likely most prominent. There is value in incorporating ethics in a proactive manner to anticipate issues that could arise as technologies emerge and before they adversely affect workers.
SS29-02 WORKERS’ HEALTH IN AFRICA FROM ANCIENT TO PRE-MODERN TIMES – THE LITTLE THAT WE KNOW
Authors: Dekel Raz 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Not much is known about health in general and occupational health in particular in Africa until modern times, but some evidence can be found especially from indirect sources.

Materials and Methods
A literature search was conducted to identify studies concerning history of medicine and occupational health in Africa from ancient to pre-modern times.

Results
There are many schools of medical thought that influenced medicine in Africa in general and probably influenced worker’s health as well, although direct evidence is scarce. The ancient Egyptian medicine, followed by the Greek-Roman medicine, Muslim medicine, European medicine and local African medical traditions, all related to workers’ health as part of the general medical paradigm. The local occupations and medical problems found in Africa contributed to the uniqueness of workers’ health issues. Maimonides, a prominent physician, theologian and philosopher, who lived most of his life in northern Africa, left some remarkable notes concerning occupational health in his medical and responsa (answers to questions posed to rabbinical authorities) writing.

Conclusions
Africa was influenced by all western medical schools and traditions throughout history. Local occupations, illnesses influencing workers and prominent physicians all had their influence on workers’ health in Africa. Though scarce, evidence for occupational health in Africa from ancient times to pre-modern times exists.
SS29-04 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN AFRICA IN A POST-COLONIAL CONTEXT
Authors: Naidoo Rajen N , Blanc Paul D , Toren Kjell 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The health of workers in Africa has been shaped by its colonial past and legacy of under-development. The legal frameworks, provision of occupational health services and programmes for the training of occupational health professionals varies across countries, influenced by economic development, worker and employer organisation and international standards. This paper describes the trends in different African countries in the post-colonial era.

Materials and Methods
Literature searches across several databases and archives were conducted to identify studies and reports of legislative frameworks and occupational health systems in African countries.

Results
In sub-Saharan Africa, South Africa developed internationally benchmarked systems in occupational health, influenced by the mining industry by the turn of the 20th century. A combination of mine owner determination to protect their investments and the traditions of worker rights brought into the country by the European migrant workers, resulted in laws and services by 1910. The under-development of the other African countries was due to a continued dependence on an agricultural economy, with a lagging in industrial development. As these countries developed their economies, an increased focus on occupational health emerged, particularly in the late 1980s. This was led by the emerging democracies in Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Basic legislation exists in other countries, but most lack resources for the development of health services or workplace monitoring.

Conclusions
The state of occupational health in African countries is based on the legacy of their colonial past – either as a result of the development of occupational health systems or because of the under-development of their economies.