bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SS50-01 EXPOSOME METHODS IN CLIMATE CHANGE AND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH: THE EU INTERCAMBIO PROJECT
Authors: Pronk Anjoeka 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The effects of climate change on occupational health, which are diverse and multifaceted and may affect workers in different regions and industries worldwide, are not fully understood. This presentation explores how the exposome, encompassing the totality of exposures throughout an individual's life, may provide crucial concepts and methods to asses these.

Materials and Methods
This is done by focusing on the potential physical and mental health effects among workers that may arise from increasing hot and cold weather episodes resulting from climate change, a use case of the EU INTERCAMBIO study, as an example.

Results
Firstly, the presentation delves into the collection of new data using innovative exposome methods. By leveraging exposome technologies and methodologies, a more comprehensive understanding can be created of the environmental exposures that workers face in the context of a changing climate. This approach provides an opportunity to collect new data to investigate the acute effects of climate change on worker health. Secondly, the presentation highlights the utilization of cohorts and job exposure matrices as powerful tools in exposome research. By tapping into existing cohorts, we can analyze historical data to discern patterns and trends in climate-induced workplace exposures, offering the potential to investigate their long-term effects.

Conclusions
In summary, exposome approaches, through the collection of new data and the utilization of cohorts, may advance our understanding of the health effects of climate change on workers. This will provide a basis for evidence-based interventions and policies to safeguard the health and well-being of the workforce in a changing climate.
SS50-05 INTERVENTIONS TO IMPROVE THE WORK ENVIRONMENT OF METAL RECYCLING WORKERS: THE EU INTERCAMBIO PROJECT
Authors: Viegas Susana , Broberg Karin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The green energy transition and the circular economy require increased recycling. However, recycling carries the risk of exposure to mixed toxic metals and organic compounds, but also to repetitive work, and accidents. We have little knowledge about occupational health in the EU recycling industry. Therefore, in the EU INTERCAMBIO project, we aim to characterize the work environment of recycling workers, explore health effects, and work with the companies to find long-term solutions to mitigate risks.

Materials and Methods
First, we aim to recruit workers in Sweden, Portugal and Denmark that perform metal, e-waste, plastic and domestic waste recycling and assess their exposure and health effects. Second, we provide suggestions on how to improve the work environment by actions on different levels. Third, we will do follow-ups of the recycling companies, in order to evaluate the impact of the intervention, including making co-creative and adequate adjustments.

Results
We will present results from the ongoing recruitment and discuss how EU INTERCAMBIO will add to the existing knowledge on occupational health for metal recycling workers world-wide. A roadmap will be presented on how to translate the knowledge produced in policy actions and on effectiveness evaluation of the EU policies already in place.

Conclusions
The results of this project will provide knowledge about current exposure and risks in the recycling industry and how to mitigate them by interventions, and provide knowledge to support new policies and improve the ones already in place in the EU. In the end, EU INTERCAMBIO will make the recycling industry more sustainable.
SS51-01 PROJECT HEATSAFE AND THE SOUTHEAST ASIA HEAT HEALTH NODE – AUGMENTING HUMAN HEALTH, SAFETY AND PRODUCTIVITY IN THE BOILING TROPICS
Authors: Lee Jason Kai Wei 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Tropical climate implies that many humans are chronically exposed to hot conditions. While we have psychologically adapted to our climate, its impact on our health and wellbeing has not diminished. People whose vocations are based outdoors are particularly vulnerable to environmental heat, which can be detrimental to health, well-being, and work productivity. If workers cannot or do not take rest in relation to heat stress, accidents, and serious health effects such as heat stroke death, can occur.

Materials and Methods
In partnership with governmental agencies, Project HeatSafe is a collaborative research project that consists of physiologists, economists, geographers, epidemiologists, and scientists from a range of disciplines.

Results
Based on selected objectives listed below, key findings will be shared during the presentation: (i) impact of heat stress on workers' productivity and wellbeing via physiological measurements and ethnographical surveys; (ii) economic costs due to productivity loss; (iii) interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of heat stress on constructions workers.

Conclusions
We seek to understand the complex threat that heat-exposure poses to human health, well-being, and work productivity in Singapore and other tropical countries such as Vietnam and Cambodia; and to identify sustainable preventive policies and actions that can reduce these impacts. A Southeast Asia Heat Health node will also be established in 2024 to augment human health and productivity in a boiling world.
SS51-02 WHE(A)THER OR NOT: THE NEED FOR GENDER-SENSITIVE HEAT INTERVENTIONS FOR WOMEN
Authors: Venugopal Vidhya , Shanmugam Rekha , Latha P K 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Heat stress will worsen in developing nations with large informal economies and manual labor affecting health and productivity.

Materials and Methods
We compared heat exposures, job-specific workload, Heat-Related Illnesses (HRIs), Heat Strain Indicators (HSIs), and kidney function data collected from 963 female and 1349 male informal workers in Indian workplaces between 2015 and 2022 to determine who is more vulnerable to heat exposures. Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), HSIs, and renal function were measured.

Results
Average WBGT exposure was 28.8 ± 3.1°C and 66% of workers were subjected to heat levels exceeding the Threshold Limit Values (TLVs). Compared to men, women had 3-fold higher risk of HRIs (95%CI: 1.8-5.2), 2.7-times increased risk of reduction in kidney function (95%CI: 1.8-4.1) and 50% higher risk of HSI and elevated urine specific gravity adjusting for confounders. Among female workers with heat exposures exceeding WBGT-TLVs, heavy workload was associated with a 5-fold increased risk of higher sweat rates (95%CI:1.1-19.7) and a 10-fold increased risk of HRIs (95%CI:5.0-18.4).

Conclusions
Significant differences in risk of HRI, HSI, and kidney function associated with occupational heat exposures between men and women indicate an increased risk for women which is exacerbated by a lack of welfare facilities and sanitation. Gender inequalities are inherently connected and have an impact on heat vulnerability and adaptability in informal workplaces, necessitating immediate gender-based cooling interventions to empower women, particularly in the rising temperatures scenario. Action is urgent, with or without evidence.
SS52-02 VACCINATING HEALTHCARE PERSONNEL: WHERE HAVE WE BEEN, WHERE ARE WE GOING?
Authors: Behrman Amy 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Vaccinating healthcare personnel has been a public health priority for more than two centuries. High rates of clinically appropriate immunization can protect individual healthcare workers from illness, disability and death while reducing risks for their patients, families and communities. In healthcare, vaccination is the most effective intervention to mitigate the impact of vaccine-preventable pathogens. Conversely, ineffective immunization threatens the healthcare workforce and can thereby magnify the impact of endemic and epidemic disease on communities.

Materials and Methods
Healthcare worker vaccine recommendations and rates will be reviewed using literature review and institutional narrative. This presentation focuses primarily on findings from the United States with implications for global partners.

Results
Vaccination rates are strongly influenced by employer and governmental resources and requirements. Vaccine mandates are the strongest driver of vaccination rates. Within mandated situations, consistent evidence-based exemption reviews are necessary to maintain high rates. Clarity and consensus from public health authorities support higher vaccination rates. Anti-vaccine messages from public figures and grassroots organizations affect healthcare personnel as well as the general public.

Conclusions
Although most healthcare personnel seek clinically appropriate vaccines, hesitancy and resistance to evidence-based recommendations persist over time and vary in severity. Variation in vaccination rates for healthcare personnel appear driven by differences in employer requirements, public health recommendations, and community factors. Healthcare personnel who resist vaccination may fail to encourage vaccination for vulnerable patients.
SS52-04 TIME TRENDS FOR COVID-19 IN HEALTH WORKERS DURING THE VACCINATION CAMPAIGN IN GERMANY
Authors: Nienhaus Albert 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Health workers (HW) were a prioritised group when the COVID-19 vaccination campaign started in Germany at the end of December 2020. In an ecologic study, the progress of the vaccination campaign was correlated with the time trend of the severity of COVID-19 in HW.

Materials and Methods
Survey data on willingness to receive vaccination in HW were assessed. The number of COVID-19 related occupational diseases was assessed in the standardized data system of the responsible compensation board (BGW). The proportion of severe disease cases was calculated for every month in 2021. In addition, the proportion of severe COVID-19 in HW was assessed for the years 2022 to 2023. COVID-19 was considered severe when hospitalisation was required or when the sick leave was longer than six weeks.

Results
In December 2021 in most hospitals and nursing homes the vaccination rate in workers was 95% or higher. Albeit, there were some regional variations observed. Even though an increase in infected HW was observed starting in October 2021, the proportion of severe COVID-19 dropped to &lt;0.05% in December from 2.7% in January 2021.

Conclusions
The vaccination campaign for HW in Germany was successful. Vaccination prevented severe COVID-19 in HW.
SS53-01 THE COVID WORK CULTURE — TALKING TO EACH OTHER THROUGH OUR CONFUSION AND CARING
Authors: Nicholas Robin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID pandemic challenged us not only physically, but in all aspects of who we are and how we work. This placed an added emotional and psychological layer on workers and their work culture.

Materials and Methods
To understand our response to COVID, we can use the same methods we use to reflect on ourselves in life, including our life at work. Three perspectives are explored: (1) the whole person and how each worker responded physically, emotionally, and psychologically to the pandemic; (2) the uncertainties created by a constantly changing work environment; and (3) workers’ need for continual, open conversations to meet their concerns.

Results
The pandemic revealed how key values and emotions underly our good work, commitment, and motivation. The potential traps within our responses also became evident — the limits of digital-only communication, a work culture of ‘just-do-what-I-tell-you’, and people’s emotional multitasking and the distractions it created. This pandemic pulled people in many directions. It was not simply a matter of focusing on work. For many, that was not possible due to the fear and stress that accompanied these uncertain times — fear of COVID itself, job insecurity, economic uncertainties, and a potential inability to take care of one’s family. And through all of this, workers supported each other with compassion and caring.

Conclusions
During these scary times, each of us reacted as a whole person, physically, emotionally, and culturally. Regardless of which media we used to respond to the pandemic, this was the human background we all shared as we worked.
SS53-02 COVID-19 COMMUNICATION OUTREACH LESSONS - BRAZIL
Authors: Silva-Junior João Silvestre 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 introduced an unparalleled global crisis. Brazil was one of the most affected nations. Over 37.7 million individuals were infected (679 cases per 100,000 inhabitants), resulting in 705,170 deaths (mortality rate of 5.39/100,000 inhabitants). The Brazilian government's response to the crisis was marred by conflicting statements from diverse officials, causing bewilderment and eroding public trust.

Materials and Methods
Digital technologies emerged as a linchpin in Brazil's communication outreach endeavors during the pandemic through online platforms, social media channels, and mobile applications. This digital approach facilitated rapid information diffusion, enabling authorities to promptly reach a broad audience. However, this dissemination was not without drawbacks, as misinformation and fabricated news propagated with equal rapidity, necessitating proactive debunking fact-checking initiatives and the endorsement of trustworthy sources.

Summary
The absence of an intricately planned and proficient government strategy promoted socio-economic burden, mental health strains, and lasting consequences of COVID-19 in Brazilian society.

Conclusion
If an effective plan prioritizing transparent communication, early interventions, and targeted support for vulnerable populations had been implemented, it might have mitigated the pandemic's profound and multifaceted impacts.
SS55 WOMEN, HEALTH AND WORK IN POST-PANDEMIC TIMES: HONORING THE MEMORY OF DR JULIETTA RODRIGUEZ-GUZMAN
Authors: Bello Igor 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The crisis caused by COVID-19 has had a huge impact on gender gaps at work. The loss of thousands of jobs, the stigmatization of health personnel, the global mental health crisis and teleworking are factors that have affected women asymmetrically. This session addresses these aspects and provides some relevant insights into their challenges and opportunities.
Brief learning outcomes: (i) Some measures taken by the countries to improve the health situation and social coverage of women teleworkers, (ii) How technological gaps have affected the health of working women: an experience in Africa, (iii) Which public policies were most effective in minimizing the impact of COVID-19 on working women, protecting employment and providing social coverage to families.
SS56 ‘VISION ZERO’ FOR PROMOTING CULTURE OF PREVENTION IN CONSTRUCTION: ROLE OF LEADERSHIP, STAKEHOLDERS AND TECHNOLOGY (MINI-SYMPOSIUM)
Authors: Ringen Knut 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This session is going to focus on emerging OSH issues in construction industry from global perspectives. Solutions through promotion of culture of prevention, Vison Zero, role of leadership, stakeholder and deployment of latest technology.
SS56-01 ‘VISION ZERO’ IN CONSTRUCTION, LEADERSHIP ROLE, USAGE OF TECHNOLOGY AND STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT
Authors: Noetel Karl-Heinz 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Leaders have a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy working environment for their employees.

Materials and Methods
There are many strategies but the Vision Zero strategy has proven to be an overarching approach. The International Social Security Association’s (ISSA‘s) Vision Zero concept is flexible and can be adapted to the requirements for safety in any conceivable environment. This is why Vision Zero can be used so easily and is useful for every workplace, company and industry in all regions of the world.

Results
Accidents at work and occupational diseases are neither determined by fate nor unavoidable – they always have causes. By introducing the Vision Zero strategy at workplaces, these causes can be eliminated and work-related accidents, harm and occupational diseases can be prevented. Seven Golden Rules have been developed to establish this strategy successfully at workplaces. The construction industry, by its inherent nature, is susceptible to potentially dangerous conditions that affect the safety of all personnel working on construction projects. As a result, it is imperative in all planning, design, bidding, and implementation that safety is an essential component. Vision Zero is the most helpful tool to reach all this.

Conclusions
Improving safety and health in the enterprise does not necessarily mean to increase spending. More important is that management acts with awareness, leads consistently and builds a climate of trust and open communication at every level in the company. Implementing the Vision Zero prevention strategy requires the active contribution and participation of many different actors at company level.
SS58-03 SHIFT WORK AND CHRONIC DISEASE RISK: BIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS AND ADAPTATION
Authors: Harding Barbara , Kogevinas Manolis 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Shift work increases the risk of chronic diseases, however mechanisms explaining the increased risks, and whether an individual’s ability to adapt to their shift schedule may alter disease risk, are still largely undetermined. This presentation will provide a brief overview of recent mechanistic studies among rotating night shift workers; the role of adaptation to shift work will also be discussed.

Materials and Methods
Data from the HORMONIT study will be used. This study included 51 male, rotating shift workers from the automotive industry in Barcelona, Spain, sampled twice at the end of a 3-week night-shift (22:00-06:00 hrs) and 3-week day-shift (06:00-14:00 hrs) rotation. Participants collected urine voids over 24-hours, gave blood twice, wore several sensors, and responded to questionnaires during each shift. We examined the levels of several hormones (including aMT6s, the major metabolite of melatonin), cytokines and metabolomic markers. By comparing aMT6s production and sleep periods, we evaluated adaptation to shift work.

Results
We found evidence that melatonin and sex steroid hormones, cytokines, and metabolomic markers were perturbed during night shift work. These are related to hormone-dependent cancers (breast, prostate) and other chronic diseases. We identified several variables associated with the ability to adapt to a slow rotating shift schedule using a central circadian biomarker-based approach. However, peripheral rhythms did not necessarily show signs of synchronization.

Conclusions
These findings provide new evidence linking night shift work to chronic disease. While adaptation may be beneficial for reducing chronic disease risk, it likely depends on the type of shift schedule and speed of rotation.
SS58-04 NIGHT SHIFT WORK, SLEEP DISRUPTION AND RISK OF COVID-19 OUTCOMES
Authors: Papantoniou Kyriaki , Espinosa Ana , Castano-Vinyals Gemma , Karachaliou Marianna , Harding Barbara , Palomar Anna , Aguilar Ruth , Moncunill Gemma , Dobano Carlota , Straif Kurt , de Cid Rafael , Garcia-Aymerich Judith , Kogevinas Manolis , Straif Kurt , de Cid Rafael 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Emerging evidence links circadian and sleep disruption with infectious disease outcomes. We examined the association of exposure to night shift work and sleep disruption with COVID-19 infection outcomes in a prospective cohort study.

Methods
We included 3,319 adult participants from a population-based cohort study in Catalonia, Spain (COVICAT study). In 2021, current night shift work, night shift work frequency, night shift work duration, sleep duration (hours) and frequency of sleep problems were assessed. In 2023, probable COVID-19 infection was defined based on questionnaires (hospital admission, positive test, or &gt;3 symptoms), seropositivity and through electronic health records. Long COVID was defined as persistent COVID-19 symptoms for &gt;3 months. We calculated log-binomial Relative Risks (RR) adjusting for individual-level covariates such as age, sex, education, type of survey.

Results
In 2023, 1825 new COVID-19 infections and 397 new long-COVID cases. Night shift work was associated with a higher risk for long COVID (RR 1.62 (95%CI 1.17-2.25). Associations were more pronounced among participants with more intense shift work schedules (&gt;3 nights/month: RR 1.80; 1.29-2.52) and longer exposure to night shift work (&gt;3 months: 1.67; 1.14-2.43). Sleep problems (&gt;3 months) were associated with a higher risk for long-COVID. We observed a U-shape association between sleep duration and long-COVID. No significant associations were found between night work and risk of COVID-19 infection.

Conclusions
Our data indicate that night shift work and sleep deprivation may be risk factors for long-COVID. These findings have implications for the prevention of COVID-19 outcomes and other respiratory viral infections in shift workers.
SS59-02 IDENTIFYING DISPARITIES IN WORK-RELATED FATAL INJURY FOR AOTEAROA-NEW ZEALAND’S INDIGENOUS MĀORI WORKERS: 2005-2014
Authors: Lilley Rebbecca , Akuhata Tai , Davie Gabrielle 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Disparities in work-related fatal injury (WRFI) have been documented for Indigenous and First Nations workers internationally. In depth analyses to understand these disparities, however, are not common owing to difficulties in obtaining data on ethnicity. Aotearoa-New Zealand’s WRFI record is poor compared to similar countries, with Indigenous Māori at higher risk of WRFI than non-Māori workers despite being partners to health equity commitments under Te Tiriti-Treaty of Waitangi. This presentation examines differences in characteristics of WRFI to inform where prevention efforts are required to reduce inequities.

Materials and Methods
A WRFI dataset was created by collecting Coronial case files for the period 1995-2014. Ethnicity was dicotomised into Māori and non-Māori using prioritised ethnicity data from the Ministry of Health. WRFI frequencies and rates per 100,000 workers were calculated by age, sex, employment status, occupation and industry and were stratified by ethnicity. Standardisation of rates was used to examine possible reasons for any differences.

Results
Māori workers have a crude rate of WRFI 1.9 times higher than non-Māori workers (IRR 1.9, 95% CI 1.6, 2.3). Disparities in fatalities were apparent by age, sex, occupation and industry. Standardisation by occupation reveal that much of the difference is able to be explained in part by differences in the distribution of Māori workers into high risk occupational groups.

Conclusions
Aotearoa-New Zealand’s Indigenous Māori workers continue to experience higher rates of WRFI despite historical health equity commitments under Te Tiriti-Treaty of Waitangi. Future efforts to address work-related fatal injury need to address the inequities in outcomes for Māori workers.
SS60 THE FUTURE OF WORK: EMERGING RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Authors: Sharma Sandeep 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
While this fast-moving era has ushered a world of conveniences and technological marvels, people are also becoming increasingly susceptible to various lifestyle diseases which may snowball into complications that impact productivity, wellness, resilience work-life balance, and their performance.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the abrupt transition to ‘new normal’ has further compounded these challenges, which have emerged as one of the most pressing issues of modern times affecting the physical and mental health of the workforce.
This Special Session will address these concerns and deliberate on timely and appropriate interventions to prevent and mitigate them.
Brief learning outcomes: The session will help occupational health physicians to develop means and skills to support and enhance the mental and physical wellbeing of the workforce. It will also provide them with support and guidance in dealing with issues and complications that could adversely affect wellbeing and impact on-job performance during these extraordinary times.