bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-162 A COMPARATIVE STUDY TO IDENTIFY THE CAUSES OF HIGH PREVALENCE OF EAR INFECTIONS AMONG WORKERS USING EAR PLUGS IN A AUTOMOBILE MANUFACTURING UNIT
Authors: Mishra Shriniket 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Need for this study was felt due to an observation was made regarding high number of ear infections among workers using ear plugs. A study was conducted to identify and establish the causes of the high prevalence of ear infections in workers using single use ear plugs compared to worker who are not using ear plugs.

Methods
A comparative study was done by analyzing the outpatient clinic data related to ear infections of occupational health Centre of an automobile manufacturing unit. Data related to workers reporting for problems related to ear infections was compared between workers working in a department where use of ear plugs was mandatory (due to presence of high noise in their work area) and other workers who were working in areas where use of ear plugs were not required. A detailed questionnaire containing personal, occupational and medical history was also obtained for both groups.

Results
There was a 05 times higher number of case of ear infection prevalent among workers using ear plugs compared to not using ear plugs.

Discussion
On analysis of detailed history of workers using ear plugs it was observed that most of them were using the single use ear plugs multiple times (for many days) due to lack of awareness and due to unhygienic condition of ear plugs it was leading to ear infections.

Conclusion
Proper training, awareness and monitoring of workers regarding use of PPE will help in prevention of occupational an infective diseases.Unhygienic PPE can cause health issues.
P-165 ASSESSMENT OF QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG ACTIVE DIABETICS ACCORDING TO THE SF36 INTERNATIONAL SCALE
Authors: Gannoun Nawres , Mersni Meriem , Youssef Imen , Brahim Dorra , Bahri Ghada , Bani Mejda , Said Hanene Ben , Mechergui Najla , Ladhari Nizar 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Diabetes is a chronic disease, that could affect both health and quality of life (QOL). The aim of our study was to assess the quality of life among working diabetic patients.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out over two weeks. Socio-demographic and professional data were collected from the medical records of diabetic patients who consulted our department during the period from 2022 to 2023. A telephonic survey was carried out to complete the SF 36 international scale.

Results
Forty-one diabetic cases were collected (25 men and 16 women) where 17% were type 1 and 83% type 2, with a mean duration of progression of 11± 8 years. Seventy percent had unbalanced diabetes with a mean glycated hemoglobin of 8±2%. The most frequent sector of activity was healthcare (29%). The average score was 63±17 for the General Health (GH) dimension. A high score of the GH dimension was noted in health care workers, and patients with high blood pressure.

Discussion
Despite the long-asymptomatic aspect of diabetes, the QOL of our patients suffering from this pathology seems to be altered. These findings provide a global perspective of the state of health and its perception by the diabetic patient and reveal that the impact of diabetes on patients should not be evaluated solely by objective clinical parameters.

Conclusion
Our study confirms that diabetic patients must be regularly assessed to determine the impact of their disease on QOL and that appropriate management must be ensured.
P-167 AN INTERVENTION PROGRAM FOR PREVENTING MUSCULOSKELETAL DISCOMFORT AMONG WORKERS IN A DISTILLERY–A ONE-YEAR FOLLOW-UP STUDY
Authors: Lan Fan-Yun , Tseng Yen-Cheng , Kuo Yau-Chang , Guo How-Ran 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Ergonomic hazards in working environments have been shown to cause musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD). We implemented an intervention program for preventing MSD among the workers in a distillery in Taiwan and evaluate the effects.

Methods
We used the Modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire to evaluate the prevalence of MSD in two surveys, one before promoting stretching in the distillery and the other one year after.

Results
In 343 workers, the response rate was 83.7% in the first survey and 63.8% in the second. More workers reported MSD in the second survey compared to that in the first one (odds ratio [OR]: 1.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2-2.4). For individual bodily parts, only the prevalence of right shoulder pain was significantly higher in the second survey (OR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.0-2.5). Using the results of the first survey as reference, we found a significant decreasing trend in the prevalence of MSD with pain score &gt;2 in lower back, right shoulder, right elbow/forearm, and right hand/wrist (all with p value &lt;0.05) among workers with optimal stretching program adherence.

Discussion
The overall prevalence of MSD increased over time in the distillery, but stretching might be associated with a decrease in the prevalence of relatively severe pain in lower back, right shoulder, right elbow/forearm, and right hand/wrist.

Conclusions
Our study observed a decreasing trend in the prevalence of MSD in lower back and right upper limb in workers who complied with the stretching program every day for 6-8 months, demonstrating the preventative effects of stretching on reducing MSD.
O-096 EVALUATION OF PRODUCTION OF 45 YEARS OF OCCUPATIONAL LUNG DISEASE RESEARCH PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: Murray Jill , Ndlovu Ntombizodwa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The Pathology Division (National Institute for Occupational Health) performs autopsies on mineworkers for statutory occupational lung diseases (OLD) compensation. From 1975, the PATHAUT database contains findings from over 110 000 autopsies. The data have been used extensively for OLD research, surveillance and findings have informed preventative disease initiatives. We explored factors that influenced the production of research outputs (1975-2019).

Methods
Research outputs were identified from the Division’s records. Production was explored by year of publication, population, disease and commodity mined in relation to contextual factors.

Results
There were 218 peer-reviewed journal articles and 73 scientific reports. The publication rate increased from 2.9 per year before 1994 (the year of democratic elections) to 6.5 per year post-1994. Studies shifted from descriptive to analytical (epidemiological). Research focused largely on OLDs in gold mineworkers. From the 1990s, studies on platinum miners increased as the industry grew. Other commodities studied include coal and manganese. Most studies were on silicosis, tuberculosis, and emphysema. Fewer studies were on asbestos-related diseases. Emerging health concerns e.g., ischaemic heart disease and HIV were investigated. Increasingly, studies focused on black mineworkers, a hitherto neglected sub-population. 34% of the scientific reports were funded by the Mine Health and Safety Council (South Africa). More recently, international collaborative partnerships became important influences.

Discussion
Over the 45-year period reviewed, several contextual factors, including changes in disease patterns, methodological approaches, politics, legislation, funding, and collaborative partnerships influenced research outputs.

Conclusion
Contextual factors have influenced research using the PATHAUT data. Studies have provided useful information for OLD control and prevention.
O-106 THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AN INTEGRATED WORKPLACE HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAM – RESULTS OF A PROCESS EVALUATION
Authors: Smit Denise , Van Oostrom Sandra , Engels Josephine , van der Meer Suzan Mooren - , Proper Karin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Systematically conducted process evaluations of integrated workplace health promotion programs (WHPP) are lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the implementation process of an integrated WHPP.

Methods
The degree of implementation, perspectives of employers and employees in the working group implementing the integrated WHPP, and contextual barriers and facilitators were evaluated. Data were collected by means of questionnaires, interviews, monitoring charts and observations at 6-10 months follow up. Interviews with employers and employees were recorded, transcribed and analyzed by thematic coding.

Results
Preliminary results based on two participating organizations showed that the criteria of the integrated approach, i.e. implement activities on both the individual and organizational level for two lifestyle themes, were met by only one location of one organization. Setting up a working group required a lot of time, but eventually it led to working groups with sufficient expertise and a good division of roles. Members of the working group were very motivated and willing to continue, but were limited by their lack of time. Working group members were satisfied with the program materials, specifically the catalogue with an overview of evidence- and/or practice-based health promoting activities.

Discussion
The mixed methods approach is a strength, as quantitative and qualitative data complement each other.

Conclusion
Preliminary results show that implementation of an integrated WHPP within six months was challenging. More effort is needed to start up a working group quickly to avoid delays in implementation, assess needs of employees and to create support within the organization.
P-175 A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF THE EFFECTS OF REGULAR ONE-ON-ONE MEETINGS BETWEEN SUPERVISORS AND SUBORDINATES IN THE WORKPLACE
Authors: Taguchi Yoto , Kitamura Hiroko , Shibata Yoshiyuki , Eguchi Hisashi , Kawanami Shoko 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In corporate talent development, regular one-on-one meetings (1on1s) between superiors and subordinates are gaining attention. In addition to fostering talent, 1on1s are expected to enhance psychological safety and reduce stress. However, no study has reported on 1on1s. We examined the impact of 1on1 frequency on psychological safety and mental health.

Methods
Of 2,800 employees in a financial institution, 2,376 subordinates who underwent 1on1s were surveyed. The company initiated 1on1s in July 2020, and a survey was conducted in July 2021. The survey collected demographics, and Edmondson’s 7-item psychological safety scale, the 12-item GHQ, and 12 items from the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire relevant to the Job Demand–Control model were used. We divided the sample into two groups by the frequency of 1on1s: five or more times (once every 2 months) and less than five times. Multiple regression analysis was performed using R (4.3.1).

Results
Among the 677 respondents (28.5% response rate), the regression results confirmed that those who received 1on1s five times or more had significantly higher psychological safety than those who had fewer meetings (p = 0.30). However, no significant impact on mental health was observed (p = 0.044).

Discussion
More frequent 1on1s were presumed to engender a better relationship between supervisors and subordinates and thus promoted greater psychological safety than less frequent 1on1s. The number of job demands and job control influenced mental health more than the frequency of 1on1s.

Conclusion
Frequent 1on1s may increase the psychological safety of subordinates.
P-176 SOCIAL AND HEALTH CARE TOP MANAGERS´ PERCEPTIONS AND AIMS OF STRATEGIC WORK ABILITY MANAGEMENT IN THE MIDST OF CHANGE
Authors: Anttilainen Julia , Pehkonen Irmeli , Varma Minna Savinainen , Haukka Eija 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Top managers’ understanding of work ability management (WAM) may influence how work ability support processes are implemented in organizations. We studied how top managers defined WAM, what were their aims for WAM and whether these aims were at a strategic level.

Methods
Altogether 28 semi-structured interviews were conducted with top managers in Finnish social and health care organizations in 2019-2021 and analyzed inductively using qualitative thematic analysis.

Results
Top managers´ defined WAM mainly multidimensionally and two aims were identified: to support work ability 1) at the individual level and 2) at the organizational level. The aims at the individual level were to anticipate declines in health and functional capacity, to support workers already experiencing declines, to develop competence, and to manage the impact of changes on work ability. At the organizational level, the aims were to improve the availability and retention of personnel, to ensure the flow of work, and to increase trust and create shared values. The aims were described as being at a strategic level, but this was not yet realized in the organizations because the actions were reactive rather than proactive.

Discussion
Often the aim of WAM is to achieve financial savings from the disability costs. However, instead of this, the availability of employees and securing the workflow were highlighted as the aims of WAM.

Conclusion
Top managers´ multidimensional perception of WAM, the emphasis on proactive measures, and the strategic level aims are crucial and require the commitment of the top managers to strategic WAM, especially in times of constant changes.
P-184 PROCESS EVALUATION OF A WORKPLACE PARTICIPATORY APPROACH TO SUPPORT CAREGIVING EMPLOYEES IN BALANCING WORK, PRIVATE LIFE AND INFORMAL CARE
Authors: Vos Eline , De Bruin Simone , Van der Beek Allard , Smit Denise , Proper Karin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Many organizations are faced with growing numbers of employees who combine paid work with informal care. To support working caregivers in maintaining a good balance between work, private life and informal care, a workplace Participatory Approach (PA) intervention focusing on discussing challenges and finding solutions, was implemented in three Dutch organizations.

Methods
Using the implementation framework of Steckler and Linnan (2002), a process evaluation was performed among participating caregivers, their supervisors, and trained occupational professionals who guided the PA. After the PA (on average 4 months), we collected questionnaires (36 caregivers; 15 supervisors) and 31 checklists filled in by professionals, and conducted semi-structured interviews among 18 caregivers, 10 professionals and 4 supervisors.

Results
Preliminary results show that participants and occupational professionals were positive about the PA as a method to support caregiving employees in finding an optimal balance. Employees felt supported in their caregiver role, while the PA provided structure to guide the conversation and helped to achieve improvements in multiple domains. Yet, supervisors were not always successfully involved in the PA. Cited reasons were hesitations to discuss issues in the private domain with supervisors and fear of being seen as a difficult employee. Also, a heavy workload of supervisors played a role.

Discussion
Caregivers and supervisors experience barriers in discussing employees’ caregiving responsibilities.

Conclusion
The PA can make an important contribution to the support and work-life-care balance of working caregivers. This does require that employers continuously invest in creating a caregiver-friendly climate in which it is encouraged and safe to discuss informal care.
O-109 EFFECTS OF THE TOTAL FLOOR AREA OF AN AIR-CONDITIONED OFFICE BUILDING ON BUILDING-RELATED SYMPTOMS: ASSOCIATIONS WITH SUSPENDED PARTICLES, CHEMICALS, AND AIRBORNE MICROORGANISMS
Authors: Azuma Kenichi , Kagi Naoki , Yanagi U , Kim Hoon , Hasegawa Kenichi , Shimazaki Dai , Kaihara Noriko , Kunugita Naoki , Hayashi Motoya , Kobayashi Kenichi , Osawa Haruki 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Building-related symptoms (BRSs) have emerged as an occupational and environmental health issue since the early 1970s. Office environment maintenance may differ according to the total floor area of a building, i.e., the scale of the building.

Methods
In this report, we examined the association between BRSs and the suspended particles, chemicals, and airborne microorganisms in air-conditioned office buildings. The surveys were conducted from January 2018 to March 2020 in 27 offices with 333 employees and in 25 offices with 342 employees during winter and summer, respectively. The office buildings were categorized into small buildings (&lt;2000 m2, 11 offices with 96 employees during winter; 10 offices with 91 employees during summer), middle-sized buildings (2000–3000 m2, 7 offices with 145 employees; 7 offices with 158 employees), and large buildings (≥3000 m2, 9 offices with 92 employees; 8 offices with 93 employees) during winter and summer, respectively.

Results
Significant associations between BRSs and the suspended particles, chemicals, and airborne microorganisms were few in small buildings. Although significant associations between BRSs and suspended particles, aldehydes, volatile organic compounds, fungi, and bacteria were observed in middle-sized and large buildings during both seasons, as a whole, those concentrations did not exceed indoor air quality guidelines, suggesting being of no toxicological significance. However, the results suggested the possibility of the effects of the combined exposure to multiple aldehydes on upper respiratory symptoms.

Discussion and conclusion
Our data suggests that further research on the total health risk due to multiple low-level indoor pollutants is required.
P-196 CHARACTERIZATION OF PARTICLES EMITTED FROM STICK-INCENSE BURNING IN A CHAMBER SETTING
Authors: Boonruksa Pongsit , Jodtang Suphattha , Chayoo Onumar , Jomngooluem Chuenkamol , Momkhunthod Piyaporn , Haphon Jurarat Haphon , Binsanthia Kanjana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Stick-incense burning is a traditional and common practice in many countries, including Thailand. However, the smoke from burning can cause health impacts due to inhalation exposure to particulate matter. The purpose of this study was to investigate the emission of particles from stick-incense burning.

Methods
Two brands of incense sticks (A and B) were used in this experiment conducted in a chamber setting. Particles released from the burning were collected and analyzed in terms of number and mass concentration using condensation particle counter (TSI P-Trak, 8525), and NIOSH method #0500, respectively. The particle morphology and chemical composition were also analyzed using SEM/EDX.

Results
Burning an incense stick released airborne particle concentration with a mean of 1.1 x 10^5 particles/cm^3 for brand A and 1.8 x 10^5 particles/cm^3 for brand B. The mass concentration mean of brand A and B was 0.8 and 1.7 mg/m^3, respectively. Morphology and particle size were in the range of ultrafine to nanoparticle. The majority of chemical composition of both brands was carbon, but the cadmium percentage was found higher in brand B. Chloride was only found in particles of brand B.

Discussion
The findings were consistent with several studies which characterized particles emitted from stick-incense burning. However, different materials and ingredients of incense could lead to differences in particle concentration and elemental content.

Conclusion
Stick-incense burning generated ultrafine particles at high number concentrations. Different brands of incense resulted in the difference in particle concentration and chemical composite. Exposure controls should be implemented during the burning, especially indoor environment.
P-207 WHY YOU SHOULD KNOW HOW YOUR AEROSOL SAMPLER IS PERFORMING
Authors: Verpaele Steven 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction and methods
A recent survey of aerosol sampling heads used within the metals industry was done in parallel to a survey of European laboratories concerning the methods used for the determination of nickel in workplace air.

Results
This survey revealed a wide variety of inhalable, thoracic, and respirable samplers as being commonly used for measuring metals and metalloids exposure in workplaces.

Discussion
In April 2019, the Nickel Institute, a global association of primary nickel producers, held a meeting with interested parties regarding the development or adaptation of existing sampling trains to measure low levels of metals and metalloids in the workplace. The parties involved agreed on the need for international sampler comparison studies. The main objective of these studies is to compare currently used (and validate any newly developed) personal samplers for measuring particulate-related exposure (and more specifically metals and metalloids) in workplace settings. Sampler efficiency studies for relevant aerosol size fractions of those samplers currently on the market will also be included in this effort.

Conclusion
In this presentation, an overview of why sampler comparison and efficiency studies are needed will be provided, together with recent outcomes of a laboratory and field study funded by Worksafe BC (Canada).
O-126 OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE DURING GRAPHENE NANOFLAKES PRODUCTION PROCESS: AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO MONITOR EARLY CYTO-GENOTOXIC EFFECTS BY SENSITIVE AND NONINVASIVE BIOMARKERS AND WORKPLACE CONTAMINATION
Authors: Cavallo Delia , Fresegna Anna Maria , Ciervo Aureliano , Boccuni Fabio , Ferrante Riccardo , Tombolini Francesca , Natale Claudio , Maiello Raffaele , Gentile Marco , Andreoli Roberta , Poli Diana , Folesani Giuseppina , Sabella Stefania , Iavicoli Sergio , Ursini Cinzia Lucia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Standardized exposure monitoring procedures and suitable biomarkers and biological matrices are needed to evaluate the potential health risk of occupational exposure to graphene-based nanomaterials.

Methods
We enrolled 5 workers of a graphene start up (mean age 39±13) and 5 controls (mean age 38±12). Harmonized OECD methodology was used to measure workplace and personal worker exposure. We used Buccal Micronucleus Cytome (BMCyt) assay (buccal cells) for local cyto-genotoxic effects and fpg-comet test (lymphocytes) and oxidized DNA bases 8-oxoGua, 8-oxoGuo and 8-oxodGuo measurements (urine) for systemic genotoxic/oxidative effects.

Results
Particle number concentration during the graphene-based powders handling differs significantly from the background (Wilcoxon test p&lt;0.05). Furthermore morphological analyses on airborne sampled materials showed rare particles attributable in size and shape to the produced graphene-based nanomaterials. BMCyt assay showed in exposed workers nuclear buds (indicative of genic amplification) and slight MN frequency induction and a subject MN positive (exceeding a fixed cut-off value for MN frequency 1.5‰). Fpg-comet assay showed induction of direct and oxidative DNA damage in exposed vs controls. A slight increase of urinary oxidized DNA bases in exposed workers was also found. Discussion The study confirms BMCyt and fpg-comet assays as the most sensitive biomarkers of early, still reparable, genotoxic and oxidative effects that, related to exposure measurements, represent useful non-invasive tools for the biomonitoring of workers involved in graphene production.

Conclusions
The integrated approach including workplace exposure characterization and biomonitoring of early health effects is useful for risk assessment and could be also used for long-term studies of workers exposed to nanomaterials.