bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
O-359 THE NATIONAL BURDEN OF WORKING TIME LOST TO COMPENSABLE OCCUPATIONAL INJURY AND DISEASE: A RETROSPECTIVE POPULATION BASED STUDY
Authors: Collie Alex , Griffiths Daniel , Donato Michael Di , Lane Tyler , Gray Shannon , Iles Ross , Smith Peter , Berecki-Gisolf Janneke , Collie Alex , Sheehan Luke 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Population-based measures of working time lost to occupational injury and disease have not been previously reported in Australia. This study sought to determine the national burden of working time lost to compensable occupational injury and disease, and to characterise the distribution of working time loss by age, sex, injury and disease.

Methods
Retrospective population-based study of all accepted workers’ compensation claims involving payment of wage replacement benefits between July 2012 and June 2017 nationally. Primary outcome measure is Working Years Lost (WYL) per annum, defined as the total number of years of wage replacement benefits paid to injured and ill nationally, by sex, age, injury and disease.

Results
Compensable occupational injury and disease resulted in 45,642 WYL nationally per annum. Male workers incurred 28,676 (62.8%) WYL while female workers accounted for 16,966 (37.2%). More than half of WYL (53.5%) were from workers aged over 45 years, despite these workers accounting for less than half (43.9%) of accepted claims. Traumatic injury resulted in 18,584 (40.7%) WYL per annum, followed by Musculoskeletal disorders (9,211WYL; 20.2%) and Mental health conditions (5,412 WYL, 11.9%).

Discussion
Annually, compensable occupational injury and disease in Australia results in a substantial burden of lost working time, equivalent to over 45,000 lost full time jobs. The distribution of burden reflects the higher labour force participation of males, slower rehabilitation in older workers, and the relative impact of common occupational injuries and diseases.

Conclusion
Effective occupational health surveillance, policy development and resource allocation will benefit from population-based monitoring of working time loss.
P-538 TWENTY YEARS OF ACCIDENT ANALYSIS OF WORKERS IN THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY
Authors: Cukier Julian , Gomez Guilermina , Marmanelli Diego , Orue Myriam Villegas , Ontivero Marcelo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Transportadora de Gas del Sur (TGS): natural gas transporter, responsible for 9,231 kilometers of gas pipelines distributed in seven southern provinces of the Argentine Republic. It is the most important transportation company in the country and operates the most extensive gas pipeline system in Latin America with a total of 44 sites and 1110 employees currently.

Methods
Analyze the accidentology of the company in the period from 2003 to 2023, the personal and work factors that influence its production. All the accidents registered in our database were taken into account.

Results
Of the 403 reported accidents, 38% represent accidents in upper limbs Although 78% of the accidents occurred in operational areas, it should be noted that 9% were located in other places such as service areas. Within the personal factors we can observe that 40% corresponds to a lack of knowledge or ability.

Discussion
From the statistical analysis, it is evident that in a high percentage of accidents the attitudes and behaviors of people at the time of doing the job were decisive (unsafe acts). Another factor observed it is related to shortcomings of Middle Management (Managers, Heads of Sectors, Inspectors, etc.) in relation to their leadership related to safety.

Conclusion
A different look at safety, focusing on the development of skills in leaders for early detection in the conditions in which employees report to work to discern if they are psychophysically for work. It is necessary to incorporate a comprehensive approach to psychosocial aspects in Prevention Programs.
P-542 INTERVENING TO REDUCE THE FUTURE BURDEN OF LUNG CANCER AND SILICOSIS FROM OCCUPATIONAL SILICA EXPOSURE
Authors: Carey Renee , Fritschi Lin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Silicosis has recently re-emerged in several countries due to increased exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) in mines, tunnelling, and kitchen benchtop fitting.

Methods
We used the future excess fraction (FEF) method to estimate the future number of lung cancer cases arising from occupational RCS exposure. Using census data, national predictions of future cancer occurrence, and information on the prevalence of RCS exposure from an OccIDEAS survey, we predicted the future number of lung cancers from occupational exposure to RCS. We then extrapolated the number of lung cancers to future silicosis cases using ratios derived from past cohort studies. By changing assumptions within this model we could then estimate the relative effect of various interventions on the future burden of disease.

Results and discussion
We estimated that approximately 584,050 Australian workers are currently exposed to RCS in the workplace, and that around 10,390 cases of lung cancer and 83,090 cases of silicosis will arise among those workers as a result of their exposure. Higher order interventions such as wet-cutting and banning engineered stone are likely to have the most impact on future burden of disease; however, modelling demonstrated that significant impact could still be achieved with the use of lower order controls.

Conclusion
These findings have clear implications for policy action. Our study received considerable press coverage and contributed to the national government taking action to reduce occupational RCS exposure. The FEF method is a useful way to demonstrate the effect of different policy options.
P-544 “WHY SHOULD I BE ASHAMED?” A MIXED-METHODS ASSESSMENT OF THE MENTAL HEALTH OF FECAL SLUDGE OPERATORS IN 2 DISTRICTS OF SOUTHERN INDIA
Authors: Thattil Anissa , Goud B Ramakrishna , Angeline G. Nancy 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The occupation of Fecal Sludge Management (FSM) in India is usually provided by the unorganized sector and relegated to vulnerable communities who are exposed to numerous occupational hazards. This mixed-method study was therefore conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the mental health of Fecal Sludge Operators (FSOs) in India.

Methodology
The study was carried out, after ethical clearance, from 2017-2019 using the snowball sampling method to identify FSOs in Bengaluru Urban and Krishnagiri Districts. The WHO-5 Well-Being Index, Rosenberg Self-Esteem questionnaire, and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test were administered to 60 FSOs after informed consent. Fifteen Key Informant Interviews were conducted using a topic guide, with data saturation guiding the sample. A thematic framework approach was utilized for data collection.

Results
The majority (78.3%) reported good well-being and all (100.0%) participants reported good self-esteem. A quarter (23.3%) of the participants consumed alcohol at a hazardous level and 31.7% reported symptoms indicative of alcohol-related harm. The caste-based nature of FSM and discrimination, prevent FSOs from seeking better job opportunities. Absent or improperly fitted personal protective equipment and lack of basic amenities were commonly reported concerns. Despite the stigma, FSOs perceived their occupation to be a dignified one.

Discussion
FSM has a high degree of psychosocial impact. Continued discrimination is associated with substance use and mental health disorders. This can lead to occupational accidents, and reduced health-seeking behavior, thereby adversely impacting health.

Conclusion
Formalizing FSM, addressing discrimination, and assuring financial security are crucial to ensuring the dignity of labor and reducing occupational health hazards.
O-360 PREVENTING NURSE VIOLENCE – AN OVERVIEW OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS AND META-ANALYSES
Authors: Bošnjak Magdalena , Brborović Hana , Brborović Ognjen , Žaja Roko 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Workplace violence is a multifaceted phenomenon that occurs when an individual or a collective entity engages in aggressive or harmful behavior within the organizational context. The occurrence of violence against nurses is observed to be perpetrated by various individuals within the healthcare setting, including patients, their family members, as well as doctors and fellow nurses. The overarching aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive description of the strategies and measures employed in the prevention of violence against nurses. The primary aim of this study is to ascertain and analyze distinct indicators of violence prevention strategies, with the ultimate goal of assessing their efficacy.

Methods
A literature search on the databases PubMed, WoS, and Scopus was performed. The study included systematic reviews (SR) and meta-analyses (MA) published in the last decade. The literature review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The assessment of the articles’ quality was conducted utilizing the AMSTAR-R assessment tool.

Results and discussion
A total of six studies (4 SA and 2 MA) were deemed eligible based on the predetermined inclusion criteria. Research has demonstrated that the implementation of educational programs and effective communication strategies are the most efficacious measures for preventing violence.

Conclusion
This approach will effectively enhance the level of awareness among nurses and foster a culture of cooperation and mutual respect within the workplace. Changes in achieving desired outcomes can be facilitated through the implementation of educational initiatives, training programs focused on enhancing communication skills, and the establishment of a secure and collaborative work environment.
O-362 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSES AS POLICY ACTORS IN THE DELIVERY OF SUSTAINABLE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES
Authors: Michell Karen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The historical under-investment and relative neglect of occupational health services (OHS) is well documented. The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the global importance of OHS as occupational health nurses were viewed as essential in the protection of key workers allowing for the continued functioning of many services including healthcare. The aim of this paper is to explore the influencers of OHS and how these could impact the sustainability of future services.

Methods
The Health System Dynamics Framework (HSDF) is used to explore OHS within health systems with a focus on the role of occupational health nurses. Both qualitative and quantitative methods underpin the research. Insights from research conducted in South Africa, WHO and ILO reference documents, as well as practitioner perceptions and anecdotal post pandemic experiences have been explored.

Results
OHS are the result of complex and dynamic interactions between multiple policy actors, as well as the population served. The results demonstrate how the internal and external influencers of the HSDF such as governance, resources, values, sector population and service delivery impact OHS delivery.

Discussion
As key policy actors in the delivery of OHS the occupational health nurse needs to be cognisant of the impact relevant influencers have on service delivery and how these could be navigated.

Conclusion
It is crucial that the traction gained during the pandemic is sustained to safeguard the continued relevance of OHS. The delivery of sustainable OHS is dependent on the collaboration of manifold stakeholders in their efforts to move towards the delivery of quality OHS delivery that meets worker needs.
P-550 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSING: CARING FOR WORKERS, PROTECTING THE FUTURE
Authors: De-Arco-Canoles Oneys del Carmen 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Talking about nursing forces us to go back to the beginning of life itself, in response to the needs that human beings have had, to care or be cared for, understanding care as the set of activities and the use of resources to ensure that the life of each person, is based on the validity of human rights; primarily, the right to life in the first person. Work has accompanied care throughout the history of humanity. Therefore, the objective of this work is to validate the role of nursing in occupational health.

Methods
Integrative literature review to identify the roles of nursing in occupational health and the challenges that professionals currently face in the world of work.

Results and Discussion
Relevant articles between the period 2012-2022 will be presented, highlighting the role of the nursing professional in tune with current dynamics, mediated by the technification of care and the increasing introduction of artificial intelligence, to develop care. Discussion It is expected to find in the review elements that validate whether there are changes presented over the years, in activities that could be carried out by occupational nurses such as Betty Moulder and Philippa Flowerday, with those that are currently carried out.

Conclusion
The role of occupational nursing requires greater visibility, in order to care not only for the patient, but also to care for the person responsible for offering that care.
O-365 THE IMPACT OF HEAT ON WORKERS’ HEALTH AND PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: Rothmore Paul , Anikeeva Olga 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Heat exposure negatively impacts outdoor workers’ productivity, health and wellbeing. The study aimed to develop a decision matrix including a work zone map incorporating high/medium/low risk areas for heat exposure, workload and heatwave forecasts to guide the scheduling of work activities for local government authorities.

Methods
This study was conducted in three phases: heat risk mapping of work zones, environmental monitoring, and a mixed methods approach to assess the impact of heat exposure among workers. The mixed methods approach included focus groups/surveys and physiological monitoring of heart rate, skin and ambient temperature. Ethics approval was provided by the University of Adelaide.

Results
Work zones were mapped as low/medium/high risk for heat exposure and a decision matrix was developed. Workers agreed that working during hot weather negatively impacted productivity and wellbeing. Negative health outcomes included dizziness, exhaustion, and reduced sleep quality. Physiological monito
O-370 MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE AND HEAT RELATED ILLNESS PREVENTION: RESTROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON HEAT RELATED ILLNESS FREQUENCY IN TEXAS OUTDOOR MUNICIPAL WORKERS
Authors: McCarthy Ronda , Perkison William , Schaefer Caroline , White Rachel , McKenzie Judith Green , Shofer Fran 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
To describe heat-related illness (HRI) frequency and cost outcomes for a heat illness prevention program (HIPP) that included the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s heat exposure guidelines for training, acclimatization, and medical surveillance, and then later modified without medical surveillance for outdoor workers employed by a Central Texas municipality.

Methods
HRI frequency and workers’ compensation (WC) cost were assessed retrospectively in a cohort of 329 municipal outdoor workers from 2011-2019. The HIPP years (2011-2017) included training, acclimatization, and medical surveillance that screened workers for factors that can increase risk for HRI. In 2018-2019, a modified heat illness prevention program (mHIPP) was implemented that included training and acclimatization, but without medical surveillance. The SARS- CoV-2 pandemic prevented adding cohort data after 2019.

Results
Out of a total of 329 workers, the rate of reported HRIs during the HIPP years (2011-2017) was 11.7 per 1,000 workers, with a 1.01 per 1,000 workers in the last three-year subset, 2015-2017. In the mHIPP years the rate was 7.6 per 1,000 workers. The median cost per HRI was $208 during the HIPP years and $1,078 during mHIPP years (p = 0.45).

Discussion
The HRI rate decreased over the HIPP years with cohort medical surveillance. The HRI rate and median cost per injury increased in the mHIPP years without medical surveillance. Significance impacted by the small number of HRI and short duration of observed MHIPP years.

Conclusion
Medical surveillance may be an important component in heat illness prevention programs to lower workforce heat related illnesses
O-372 THERMAL RESPONSES AND CLOTHING INSULATION IN EXTREME INDOOR COLD CONDITION
Authors: Piedrahita Hugo , Oksa Juha 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Several health effects are associated with exposure to cold in indoor workplaces (chronic health problems and cooling injuries). Clothing is the most common measure to control the cold exposure in indoor workplaces. Freeze drying is used for food preservation including coffee production (temperatures between -40ºC -60ºC). This paper presents the experience of 9 workers in extreme cold store(freeze drying coffee company) to evaluate the thermal responses and thermal insulation of clothing.

Methods
Nine young subjects volunteered for the study. Air temperature in cold storage was -43ºC and air velocity (0.5m/s to 2m/s). Rectal temperature and skin temperatures (13 sites) were measured continuously. Health questionnaire about cold experience, Thermal sensation, Thermal comfort, local and general physical exertion, Musculoskeletal symptoms and discomfort questionnaire, were apply to workers.

Results
Rectal temperature remained stable during the 8 hours in all subjects, but important differences were found in extremities. All skin temperatures during the working hours were significantly lower compared with resting hours. The subjects rated their thermal sensation lower from the first hour in cold condition. General and local thermal comfort were more uncomfortable in Cold compared with N (P&lt;0.05)

Discussion & Conclusion
The cold protective overall has sufficient thermal insulation for 8h about at -10°C and for 1h about at -30°C when activity level is low. When activity level is medium, thermal insulation of the overall gives protection against cold for 8h about at -30°C and for 1h about at -50°C. By adding more protection on extremities, the performance level will be higher in colder ambient temperatures.
P-560 CO-EXPOSURE OF WORKERS TO AIR POLLUTANTS AND A WARMING CLIMATE: SIGNIFICANCE OF MEDICAL MONITORING PROGRAMS
Authors: Saberi Pouné , McCarthy Ronda , Perkison William 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Increasing earth’s surface temperatures, and its contribution to the deterioration of air quality has resulted in increasing cardiopulmonary related health risks. Globally, over one billion workers are exposed to these changing climatic conditions including increases in heat indices, ground ozone levels, and particulate levels. Scientific literature supports the health benefits of establishing air quality indices and subsequent action alerts for the general community.
The aim is to review literature on medical monitoring programs that can identify those workers who are at increased risk for the health effects of both elevated ambient temperatures and poor air quality and determine the role of an occupational program that takes into account both air quality and heat indices.

Methods
An occupational medicine literature review searching for heat-related illness outcomes in workers was conducted and investigated how the air pollutant levels and the level of heat exposure combined may impact worker health.

Results
While heat and air pollution are independent risk factors, they also act as synergistic health stressors for workers.

Discussion
More attention must be paid to co-exposure of heat and air pollution in workers. Air quality measures need to be incorporated into the heat illness prevention program for a more comprehensive approach in occupational medical monitoring programs as its own independent index to improve protection of workers. More information will be needed to codify the interventions based on the air quality indices.

Conclusion
Employee heat illness prevention programs should take into account the effects of air quality as well as traditional heat indices.
P-562 NOISE EXPOSURE OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS IN SCHOOL GYMNASIA AND SWIMMING POOLS: A REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Authors: Van Hooste Wim , Bogaert An , Van Dijcke Pieter 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is one of the most recognized occupational diseases worldwide. In non-industrial professions like teaching, noise is presumed to be primarily a nuisance rather than a risk factor for NIHL. Although, physical education (PE) teachers could be exposed to noise.

Methods
A literature review for the period 1990-2023 was performed.

Results
The acoustic conditions in school environments are complex and depend on both the environmental noise caused by external noise sources, such as the surrounding transport infrastructure, and on noise produced by electric and mechanical systems in school buildings (heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, printers, …). School gymnasia and swimming pools are generally environments affected by poor acoustic conditions due to absence of sound absorbing materials, noisy sport activities, presence of many students at the same time, and intensive use of blowing whistles to enforce the communication. In particular, sports halls have excessively long reverberation times.

Discussion
Noise is a problematic phenomenon to measure, and also individually perceived. The noise exposure of PE teachers in school gymnasium and swimming pools is a problem that has been generally underestimated. There is an existence of unacceptably high sound levels. The consequence is that physical education teachers can not only show long term stress, but they can also be exposed to noise as a risk to NIHL and develop chronic voice disorders.

Conclusions
We must consider noise at gymnasia as a detrimental factor to teaching and learning, but also consider it as a potential occupational hazard to the health of PE teachers.
P-565 CLINICAL AND AUDIOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS OF OCCUPATIONAL HEARING LOSS
Authors: Meskini Cheima , Dallagi Amani , Baraketi Emna , Khouja Nihel , Merghni Syrine , Khaiereddine Donia , Ismail Saloua , Hsinet Jihen , Benzarti Aida 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational Deafness (OD) is an acquired hearing impairment attributable to excessive workplace noise, which causes a serious problem of fitness for work and thus requires early detection. Objectives: To describe the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of OD, and to assess its impact on the work-fitness decision.

Methods
A retrospective, descriptive study of workers with OD referred to the Occupational Medicine Department over a period of 22 years.

Results
We included 111 patients. The majority were men (67%) with an average age of 40 years. The most affected sectors were call centers (55%), transport sector (11%), building and public works sector (10%). Hearing loss was discovered following symptoms in 84% and on the occasion of screening during occupational medical surveillance in 16%. The most reported functional signs were Hypoacusis (80%), tinnitus (56%), vertigo (30%) and otalgia (23%). The average duration between employment and the onset of the first auditory manifestations relative to noise exposure was 4.5 years. Pure-tone audiometry was performed for all patients and revealed sensorineural, bilateral and symmetric deafness in 86% of cases. The mean hearing loss on the best ear was 37.16 dB, on the right and 36.11 dB, on the left. Deafness was considered as a compensable occupational disease for 23.1% of the employees and justified occupational redeployment for 53% of cases.

Discussion
OD affected several sectors and often compromises fitness for work. Pure-tone audiometry remains the crucial test for screening and diagnosis.

Conclusion
Noise reduction and regular medical surveillance are essential to screen hearing loss at an early stage.