bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SS20-02 CLIMATE CHANGE: HOW DO INTERNATIONAL BODIES AND NATIONAL RESEARCH INSTITUTES ON OSH ADDRESS ITS CHALLENGES?
Authors: Gagliardi Diana , Valenti Antonio , Bonafede Michela , Cannone Erika , Boccuni Valeria , Marinaccio Alessandro 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

I National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL), Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Rome, Italy

Introduction
Climate change and environmental degradation are major threats for the economic, social and environmental pillars of sustainable development as well as for the achievement of the relevant objectives of the UN 2030 Agenda.

Materials and Methods
The ecological transition has a relevant impact on occupational safety and health (OSH). New technologies, new ways of performing traditional jobs, traditional risks imported into totally diverse working conditions as well as the impact of climate change on work environments are all challenges that OSH must address. Research programmes and activities of an international organization and of a national research institute will be analysed.

Results
ICOH, the leading international scientific association in OSH, pays special attention to the impact of climate change on working conditions and occupational risks and supports research and interventions in different areas and sectors of exposure to these risks. The National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work (INAIL) is engaged in multidisciplinary and integrated activities aimed at anticipating and managing new and emerging risks linked to novel work organization models as well as to the evolution of production processes stimulated by climate change and the ongoing green transition.

Conclusions
Notwithstanding the context where research is developed (a national institute for OSH research or an international professional association), designing just research questions, raising awareness and involving the right stakeholders are key actions to define the most appropriate solutions to protect the health and safety of all the workers employed in the green economy sector or exposed to the risks related to climate change.
SS23-05 ADVANCING TECHNICAL RESOURCES FOR OCCUPATIONAL TOXICOLOGY
Authors: Hogan Martin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The presentation discusses advancements in computer-based assessments of likely toxicological properties of both new and old chemical entities, so called, in silica assessments.

Materials and Methods
A literature review was carried out.

Results
Traditional toxicological assessments use a combination of laboratory-based experiments, in vitro testing, as well as studies largely using experimental animals, in vivo. These could be slow and expensive and largely could not be extrapolated beyond the chemical that was being studied. Qualitative Structural Activity Relationship (QSAR) has contributed to a revolutionary change in toxicological assessments. An increasing number of these computer-based programs are becoming available for molecular analysis. QSAR can be used to predict the biochemical, physical, pharmaceutical, biological and other effects based on the chemical arrangement of a molecule. It can be used to predict both harmful and potentially beneficial effects of molecules that have not even yet been manufactured. It is playing a leading role in pharmaceutical development but also predicting potentially adverse human health effects before they occur. Multiple molecules can be analysed at the same time. Potential carcinogens, mutagens sensitisers and other effects can be anticipated and avoided by not even manufacturing that chemical.

Conclusions
QSAR is playing an ever more important role in toxicological assessments using predictive computer programs to assess potential effects.
SS24-02 CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE CHARACTERIZATION OF CARCINOGENS FOR CANCER HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Authors: Wedekind Roland 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The other two presentations in this session highlight examples of IARC Monographs evaluations in which studies in exposed workers provided important evidence on cancer in humans or mechanisms of carcinogenesis. Since the update of the Preamble in 2019, the IARC Monographs contain a formal critical appraisal of the exposure assessment quality in human cancer and mechanistic studies. This presentation describes the workflow of this procedure and applications to some examples.

Materials and Methods
The steps of the exposure assessment critique as outlined by the IARC Monographs Preamble are presented. Former Monographs evaluations were used as case studies to identify the exposure assessment domains that were most informative for judging study quality.

Results
A common approach was used to evaluate the exposure assessment quality in the Monographs on (i) 1,1,1 trichloroethane, (ii) antimony and (iii) occupational exposure as a firefighter. Some criteria were adjusted for different agents, such as the studies’ definition of the exposure, information on exposure routes, and the assessment of co-exposures. Agent-specific knowledge is required concerning exposure assessment methods and potential co-exposures to identify the strengths and limitations of the exposure assessments performed in human cancer and mechanistic studies.

Conclusions
Evaluating the quality of exposure assessment methods in studies with exposed humans is a critical step needed to judge the studies’ quality and informativeness. The structured process formally introduced since the new Preamble can improve transparency and consistency in the application of evidence synthesis frameworks for future IARC working groups and other scientific review panels.
SS28 THE FUTURE OF WORK AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: ETHICAL ISSUES AND PROPOSED SOLUTIONS
Authors: Rantanen Jorma , Valenti Antonio 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, globalization, demographic changes, the introduction of new technologies, and possible risks of new pandemics and emergencies have enhanced the ethical challenges in public health and occupational health. It is the ethical duty of occupational health experts to be prepared for such challenges. Prediction of future risks is an essential strategy for ensuring our preparedness. In both the preparedness and actual response, confidentiality, objectivity, integrity, conflict of interest, and communication about health hazards are important for experts in their relationships with individual workers, with employers and employees’ representatives, colleagues in the health sector, and the public.
SS28-01 COVID-19 PANDEMIC: LESSONS FOR OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH ETHICS
Authors: Valenti Antonio , Boccuni Valeria , Cannone Erika , Gagliardi Diana 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The COVID-19 emergency has reshaped the way we live and work, leading at the same time to the revisiting of traditional ethical principles and the emerging of ethical issues related to public health and occupational health in the form of resource allocation, priority-setting, physical distancing, public health surveillance, healthcare worker's rights and obligations to conduct clinical trials, etc.

Materials and Methods
Thanks to a comprehensive analysis of recent policy documents from the main international and national organizations, institutions, agencies, and research articles, we identified some drivers and barriers for correct professional ethics that can represent a starting point to acknowledge some proposals for ethical solutions.

Results
Ethical aspects in the pandemic policies and practices have not received sufficient attention. The presence of numerous variables to consider, as well as the growing number of potential stakeholders involved in ethical choice, prevented the identification of an ideal proposal able to solve ethical challenges in occupational health practice.

Conclusions
The logic of an integrated approach must take account of the importance of all three types of ethics: personal (individual), professional and institutional. Discussion, analysis, problem solving, and decision-making are critical to the ethical resolution of conflicts. A key role is played by the occupational health professionals (OHPs) due to the increasing responsibilities of OHPs towards patient, employer, workers, government, companies, medical professionals and society at large.
SS29-03 NATURAL RESOURCES EXPLOITATION AND OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESS AND INJURY UNDER COLONIAL RULE: THE PARADIGM OF THE BELGIAN CONGO
Authors: Nemery Benoit 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
During Belgian colonial rule of the Congo (1908-1960), the private company Union Minière du Haut-Katanga (UMHK) had a monopoly on mineral extraction and processing in southern Katanga (northern part of the African Copperbelt). Thousands of workers were employed in underground and open cast mines, and in metallurgical plants producing copper, cobalt, uranium, and many other metals.

Materials and Methods
Non-systematic literature review and limited archival research.

Results
In the first decades, worker shortage represented a major difficulty for the mining industry. Men were forcefully recruited from surrounding or even faraway regions to work for three to six months; poor working and living conditions led to high mortality from dysentery and pneumonia. Later, efforts were made to improve hygiene in worker camps, built following the South African Orenstein model of dormitories. However, largely at the initiative of medical doctors, the UMHK took measures aimed at “stabilizing” the workforce. This consisted in building worker camps (“cités”) with family housing, improving food rations, providing medical care and schools. This “totalitarian” policy was conducted without worker participation; unions were forbidden. Nevertheless, organized forms of resistance did occur, including a violently repressed strike in December 1941. Occupational accidents and work-related diseases (including silicosis) were recorded, but little information is publicly available about their prevention, incidence, and management.

Conclusions
UMHK medical services focused on prevention and management of common diseases for mine workers and their families. The history of occupational safety and health in natural resource exploitation under Belgian colonial rule remains to be written.
SS30-01 SUPPORT FOR TRANSPORT BUSINESS OWNERS: ROAD SAFETY IN THE CEMENT INDUSTRY
Authors: Andaloussi Saad Benjelloun 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The desire of cement manufactures to prevent road accidents and fatalities is also reflected in their commitment to support their carriers in the development and improvement of their internal road safety management systems.

Materials and Methods
This commitment resulted in the signing of a road safety charter and the creation of road safety collectives with support, audit and awareness-raising missions aimed at coaching and improving safety awareness of road safety. Trophies are also distributed to the most committed.

Results and Conclusions
A significant reduction in accidents was noted with a clear improvement in the involvement and commitment of carriers. We have achieved zero fatal accidents for several years and significantly reduced the number of road accidents.
SS30-03 FLEET PROCESSES AND MANAGEMENT OF TRUCKS IN THE CEMENT INDUSTRY
Authors: Haddad Redouane , Madadi Hicham 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Trucks working on behalf of cement manufacturers follow a control, inspection and maintenance process developed with a life log and rigorous monitoring.

Materials and Methods
An average age is established for all types of trucks. The latter are chosen according to the nature of the risk of the journey and the loading and unloading conditions. Trucks must always be adapted to the nature of the material loaded and unloaded.

Results and Conclusions
This management process helps reduce accidents on the road and during loading and unloading operations.
SS31-01 UNITED AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
Authors: Iden Ehi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational safety and health (OSH) across Africa is fast developing but notably within this development was the issue of silo working which characterised the efforts of great minds within the space of workplace health and safety improvement across the region. This adversely was leading to high duplication of efforts and resources doing work that may have been done by another practitioner in another country in Africa.

Materials and Methods
What we did was to deactivate this existing system and style of work and find a common ground to bring African OSH practitioners together to first know themselves, build trust, and collaborate in OSH studies and continuous sharing of data. The quickest way we could make this happen was to set up a WhatsApp Group for OSH practitioners across Africa and this grew over time, bringing people to relationships with opportunities to support each other.

Results
That singular effort has led to what we know today as OSHAfrica, giving opportunity to OSH practitioners across Africa to work together, learn together, share knowledge on systems improvement and build a huge network of support for each and every member.

Conclusions
We have come a long way and we are now of age doing great work across Africa through unified programmes implemented through sub-regional approaches in Africa.
SS31-03 RESEARCH IN OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (OSH) IN AFRICA: THE CURRENT TRAJECTORY
Authors: Gasana Janvier 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In Africa, research in OSH is quite limited due to the lack of graduate-research-based degree programs, the brain drain, and limited labor laws and legislations.

Methods
The modified Delphi Consensus approach was used in this cross-sectional study along with literature reviews of limited existing publications on OSH. Participants were African OSH specialists through the OSHAfrica platform through a link to the online Google Form survey of nine questions.

Results
Limited research shows workers with high levels of total mercury in the urine, injury rates of 14/1,000 workers, and high lead levels in blood and urine samples. The Delphi survey had more than 30% of participants as Nigerians followed by South Africans (17%). The OSH development in their country was rated by 33% of the participants at 5 on a scale (0 -10) and no participant gave it 10.

Discussion
Urgent need exists for OSH development in Africa and research capacity building. Baseline (pilot) OSH studies are suggested along with the use of Delphi Consensus approach among African OSH experts. Some African countries have national OSH policy and OSH education institutions, and many lack both. Research, surveillance, and analysis of existing information to show the extent and cost of the burden caused by occupational risks are important factors in gaining political commitment.

Conclusion
Given the many industries that are in Africa, there is a compelling need for OSH policies and regulations from an OSH regulatory authority, and OSH research capacity building by existing African training centres and universities with the support of the African Union.
SS32 MANAGEMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL POISONINGS IN MOROCCO
Authors: Rhalem Naima 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The Poison Control and Pharmacovigilance Centre of Morocco (CAPM), is a public institution affiliated to the Ministry of Health. Its objective is improving the health of the Moroccan population by reducing morbidity, mortality and economic expenses related to poisoning and adverse effects of health products. Since its creation in 1989, the CAPM has set up a medical telephone hotline operational 24 hours, intended for the public and health professionals, including occupational physicians. The CAPM is responsible for responding, particularly in the event of an emergency, to any request for risk assessment and any request for opinion or advice concerning the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of human poisoning, whether accidental or voluntary, individual or collective, acute or not, caused by any natural or synthetic product or substance, available on the market or present in the environment or in the workplace.
The CAPM has a toxicology and clinical pharmacology laboratory, operational since 1994. It covers emergency medical toxicology as well as drug dosages for the therapeutic monitoring of patients. Furthermore, the CAPM has an antidote unit which ensures the availability and rationalization of the use of antidotes necessary to improve the management of poisonings. However, the CAPM suffers from under-reporting concerning professional poisoning which requires the establishment of collaboration between the CAPM and the associations of occupational physicians to realize the interest of the spontaneous notification of occupational poisonings, which will allow the tracing of the epidemiological profile for this type of poisoning and to establish integrated strategies for managing these poisonings.
SS33 RECOGNISED OCCUPATIONAL CVD RISK FACTORS: TIME TO START A PREVENTION ‘TOTAL WORKER HEALTH’ APPROACH?
Authors: Tsutsumi Akizumi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The aims of the Session are to summarise evidence-based results of solid epidemiological studies and meta-analysis, assessing the associations between cardio-vascular diseases (CVDs) and more prevalent occupational risk factors, i.e. sedentarism and occupational strenuous activities, long work hours, shift-work and night-work, work stress and strain.
Emphasis will be given to protection and preventive trials assessing the efficacy of collective and individual-level measures to reduce these risks, i.e. organisational changes and a clinical approach to characterize subjects at higher risk who may better benefit from behavioural and protection interventions, adopting a ‘Total Worker Health’ approach.
SS33-01 WORK STRESS AND CVD RISK: REASONS FOR, AND EVIDENCE OF, INTERVENTIONS
Authors: Siegrist Johannes 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and specifically ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke, are major contributors to the global burden of mortality. Important modifiable CVD risk factors were established. Among those, distinct stressful working conditions were identified, based on epidemiologic cohort studies testing theoretical models of adverse psychosocial work. Two such models, demand control (DC) and effort-reward imbalance (ERI), were analysed most widely so far, specifically as predictors of incident IHD. Evidence on these associations is summarized, and implications for workplace interventions are discussed.

Materials and Methods
To this end, results derived from nine systematic reviews and meta-analyses of the DC model (five reports) and the ERI model (four reports) were screened and summarized, comprising data from more than 20 cohort studies. These findings were supplemented by those of three recent studies that tested the combined effects of the two models on IHD risk.

Results
For each model, relative risks of IHD among exposed versus non-exposed people were significantly increased, with effect sizes varying between 1.2 and 1.5, after adjustment for relevant confounders. Effects were stronger and more consistent among men than among women. In addition to separate effects, combined exposure to the two work stress conditions (three studies) exerted an additive, but not a synergistic effect on IHD risk.

Conclusions
Given that every fifth worker is exposed to one of these risks, a potential preventable disease burden is considerable. Thus, implementation of theory-based worksite preventive programmes is recommended. First respective intervention studies documented promising improvements.
SS34-02 WORKPLACE HEALTH WITHOUT BORDERS’ VIRTUAL OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING USING SYNCHRONOUS AND ASYNCHRONOUS METHODS
Authors: Galvin Jennifer , Renton Lydia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Training is a focus area of Workplace Health Without Borders (WHWB). There are 3,4 billion workers in the world. Nearly two-thirds of them work in unhealthy and unsafe conditions. Worldwide, there are about 8,000 certified / registered occupational hygienists and only 16 countries with professional accreditation programs. The global need is great for more trained occupational health / hygiene professionals who understand how to protect workers from workplace injury and disease.

Materials and Methods
This presentation will share our methods and platform for instruction. We will discuss how we pivoted during the COVID-19 pandemic to a combination of synchronous / asynchronous training, and how this solved several important issues for our students and tutors and overcame other barriers to in-person training. We will present the outcomes of student evaluations and how we measure and deliver successful training.

Results
The impact of our training will be presented. Our training leads to mentoring which leads to networking for the students and global professionals responsible for worker wellbeing. We engage in-country tutors for instruction and facilitation so that networking and mentoring are more easily attained.

Conclusions
Students and professionals in low- or middle-income countries (LMICs) lack access to occupational health / hygiene training. There is often a lack of regulations in these countries, so that prevention of exposure and protection of worker health is not addressed. However, knowledge of breaking the routes of exposure that cause disease can be used anywhere when it is understood.
SS35 THE IMPACT OF WORKING FROM HOME ON OLDER WORKERS
Authors: Proper Karin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were suddenly forced to work from home. As a result, workers’ daily routine and work environment changed considerably which may have affected the lifestyle and health of these workers. For example, being confined to the house may have resulted in more sedentary behavior, or increased musculoskeletal pain due to multiple factors including an unfavorable working environment at home. Also, working from home might have negatively affected mental health, such as reduced well-being, more feelings of stress and socially isolated. This phenomenon might even be more pronounced among older workers, as they in general are more vulnerable to psychosocial risks, less connected through social media and may experience obstacles in transitioning to remote working. Although the impact of working from home during COVID-19 pandemic has been studied among the general working population, the impact among older workers is still understudied.
This special session will present four different studies on the impact of working from home on older workers across a range of areas including their physical activity and sedentary behavior, social isolation and stress and musculoskeletal pain. The studies have applied different and unique methods including large, longitudinal datasets and smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment surveys. The outcomes of the studies will provide starting points for a discussion on potential intervention strategies to reduce the negative impacts of working from home.