bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-551 INVESTIGATIVE SURVEY OF THE CONSCIOUS BEHAVIORS OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSES IN INTERVIEWS WITH WORKERS WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS IN JAPAN
Authors: Hatanaka Junko 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
The objective of this study was to clarify the conscious behaviors of occupational health nurses when interviewing workers with mental health problems in order to examine the role of occupational health nurse interviews.

Subjects and Methods
An anonymous questionnaire was mailed to 757 people belonging to the Japan Society for Occupational Health Nursing Subcommittee. Basic statistical analysis was carried out for all items

Results
Replies were received from 262 occupational health nurses (response rate: 34.6%), and 216 nurses were included in analysis after excluding 46 who did not interview the mentally ill. The items at or above the median score “I was conscious of it: 6” were 28 of the items related to conscious behaviors in the health consultation interview and all items related to conscious behaviors in the Return to Work support interview. Items in health consultation interviews included “Building relationships in the workplace on a regular basis,” “Basic attitude during interviews,” “Interviews with a counseling mindset,” “Comprehensive assessment of subjects,” and “Working with staff to find a solution.” Items in the Return to Work interviews included “Support for the subject,” “Assessment of a subject’s return to work preparations and issues,” and “Encouraging problem solving by the subject to suit the workplace.”

Discussion
The characteristics of these behaviors suggest that their role in interviews is to build relationships with workers and use the information from the interviews to assist them in finding solutions to problems.
O-363 CLIMATE CHANGE AND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY. THE ITALIAN EXPERIENCE FOR MONITORING AND PREVENTING THE RISK OF INJURIES DURING HEATWAVES (WORKLIMATE PROJECT)
Authors: Marinaccio Alessandro , Bonafede Michela , Morabito Marco 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
High temperatures occupational exposure induces health risks in workers and reduces work capacity and labour productivity. Preparedness and prevention strategies to reduce heat waves impacts are strongly required, and work-related risk factors consideration is crucial. Recently, a nationwide epidemiological study in Italy has estimated around 4,000 work-related injuries per year linked to heat. Outdoor workers in construction sector and agriculture are majorly involved.

Methods
Our study describes a prevention system oriented to inform employers, workers and authorities about risk distribution, available tools for managing heat waves at workplaces and formation priorities (WORKLIMATE projects).

Results
An occupational heat stress forecasting system for the screening of risks has been implemented with predicted heat-risk conditions defined by three levels (from low to high risk). WORKLIMATE represents the first operative tool available to the public health authorities for assessing the occupational exposure to extreme temperatures on a national-wide dimension.

Discussion- Conclusion
The development of an occupational surveillance system for providing a heat warning framework, identifying territories and vulnerable occupational groups has to be considered as a priority, especially according to climate change scenarios. Actions are needed to protect workers and employers, including low cost measures such as assured access to drinking water in workplaces, frequent rest breaks in shady/cool places, availability of adequate protective equipment (e.g. ventilation jackets or cooling garments) and consider rescheduling work activities preferring cooling periods of the day for more demanding tasks.
P-568 THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OCCUPATIONAL NOISE EXPOSURE AND BINAURAL HEARING LOSS
Authors: Zhang Jiming , Zhou Zhijun 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Occupational noise may cause binaural hearing loss. The current study aimed to explore the hearing status and asymmetric hearing loss of workers exposed to occupational noise.

Methods
Based on occupational physical examination data conducted in 2021 of an occupational health institution in Shanghai, the median and quartile were used to represent the pure tone hearing threshold test results of workers exposed to occupational noise. The relationship between occupational exposure time and binaural pure tone hearing threshold test results and weighted value of hearing threshold were investigated by using generalized additive model.

Results
The current study included 8325 workers including 5385 males, with an average age and time of occupational exposure of 38.83 years and 6.40 years. At 500Hz and 1000Hz, pure tone hearing thresholds in both ears was 19 dB; from 2000Hz to 6000Hz, the thresholds in both ears were 18 dB. The median weighted value of hearing threshold in both ears was 19 dB. The prevalences of asymmetric hearing loss in low- and high-frequency among workers were 1.53%~2.37% and 6.40%~14.19%. The binaural pure tone hearing threshold and the weighted value of hearing threshold were not statistically significant. Apart from 2000Hz, all the left ear pure tone hearing thresholds were negatively correlated with occupational exposure time. At 500Hz and 6000Hz, the right ear auditory thresholds were also negatively correlated with the occupational exposure time. Asymmetric hearing loss was not observed in the current study.

Discussion and conclusion
Occupational noise exposure time was associated with binaural hearing loss, but not associated with asymmetric hearing loss.
O-384 A STUDY ON STATUS OF WORKPLACE VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN HEALTHCARE WORKERS AT A GENERAL HOSPITAL IN CHINA: BASED ON GENDER PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Huang Yiming , Zhang Min , Liu Yujie , Chen Na , He Chuning 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Workplace violence towards women healthcare workers(HCWs) is of great concern. This study aims to investigate the status, risk factors, and response modes of workplace violence among women HCWs at a general hospital in central China.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted on workplace violence toward women HCWs using an international questionnaire (ILO/WHO/ICN/PSI) in 2019. Data analysis was performed with Chi-Square Test and binary logistic regression analysis.

Results
A total of 4.0% of women HCWs had encountered physical violence, while 41.2% of them had experienced psychological violence. The incidence rate of psychological violence among verbal abuse, bullying/gang bullying, sexual harassment, and racial discrimination was 39.9%, 8.3%, 1.4%, and 1.3%, respectively. Night shift was the risk factor of physical violence (OR = 2.25, P &lt; 0.05), while department (OR = 8.03, P &lt; 0.05), salary(OR = 3.54, P &lt; 0.05), and direct contact with patients (OR = 2.34, P &lt; 0.05) were the risk factors of psychological violence. Women nurses had the highest awareness rate of reporting procedures, followed by women technical support and administrative staff and women doctors.

Discussion
This study provides baseline data for preventing workplace violence from a gender perspective in China by using an international questionnaire. The characteristics of women HCWs should be considered when tackling workplace violence; more attention needs to be paid to the demands of cultural diversity, gender equality, organizational management, etc.

Conclusion
The factors associated with workplace violence against women HCWs are complex. Women’s perspectives should be considered to achieve the vision of “zero violence” in Chinese hospitals.
O-387 OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESSES IN WOMEN: LOOKING BACK 20 YEARS THROUGH THE OCCUPATIONAL PHYSICIANS REPORTING ACTIVITY SCHEME
Authors: Zelic Loren , Pereira Rheanna , Byrne Laura , Iheozor-ejiofor Zipporah , Carder Melanie , Van tongeren Martie 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Women constitute a significant portion of the global workforce and remain underrepresented in occupational health research and frameworks for occupational health and safety management.

Methods
This study describes women’s work-related ill-health (WRIH) reported to the Occupational Physicians Reporting Activity (OPRA) scheme between 2003 and 2022. OPRA is a national reporting scheme run from the University of Manchester as part of The Health and Occupation Research (THOR) network, covering Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Estimated cases were weighted and adjusted for temporal changes in reporter numbers.

Results
51,464 estimated cases were reported to OPRA with the largest proportion being mental ill-health (64%) followed by musculoskeletal conditions (27%). 57% of musculoskeletal and 54% of mental ill-health cases were women employed in Human Health and Social Work activities, with the most common job roles being nurses and nursing auxiliaries and assistants. The most reported tasks for musculoskeletal WRIH were accidents, including assaults (22%), and heavy lifting (20%). The most reported events for mental ill-health were factors intrinsic to the role (48%) and interpersonal difficulties (34%).

Discussion
Work-related musculoskeletal conditions have historically been a concern with cases gradually decreasing over the years. However post-COVID-19 figures have started to rise, particularly with consideration to the sudden shift in remote working. Psychological conditions continue to dominate women’s WRIH, particularly attributed to workload and interpersonal difficulties.

Conclusion
Occupational diseases in women present a complex and underexplored domain. Recognising and addressing the gender-specific aspects of WRIH is crucial for creating safer and more equitable work environments.
O-394 ASTHENOPIA AND THE USE OF SCREENS IN THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A NARRATIVE REVIEW
Authors: Sa Eduardo Costa , Rinaldi Bruna Salati Nani 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the spread of COVID-191 to be a pandemic. As a result, several sectors had to adapt hastily to use both communication and distance learning resources, without any defined protocol. To meet this demand, employers, schools and self-employed professionals developed a dependancy on the use of electronic screen devices to work, study and have fun.

Method and results
It is known that electronic screens emit short waves of high energy that can penetrate ocular tissues, eventually contributing to photochemical damage in retinal cells. Asthenopia is the name given to the set of these associated symptoms. They range from eye irritation to neck pain. Estimating the prevalence of asthenopia is difficult due to important differences in diagnostic criteria. A relatively recent review reported a worldwide prevalence of approximately 69%. The persistence of asthenopia, in the long term, can negatively influence the level of productivity - at school or at work - of those who suffer from it, since it is related to more frequent breaks, an increase in the number of errors, culminating in rework.

Discussion and conclusion
The present review considers the new findings in the field of ergo-ophthalmology, in the context of COVID-19. Searches were carried out in the BASE, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and PubMed databases. Taking into account the novelty of the COVID-19 topic, the search was limited to publications from 2019 to 2021. Ocular symptoms have been neglected in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
O-396 OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (OSH) NEEDS IN AFRICA – IDENTIFICATION OF PRIORITIES, BARRIERS, AND SOLUTIONS THROUGH MODIFIED DELPHI METHOD USING OSHAFRICA PLATFORM
Authors: Gasana Janvier , Al-Mutairi Loulwah , Iden Ehi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The ILO Convention No. 161 of 1985 and WHO Global Action Plan of 2008-2017 both state the importance of having an OSH goal for every worker’s health. From limited labor laws and legislations in Africa, such measures do not exist for its workers in various industries. This cross-sectional study highlights Occupational Health and Safety expert opinions on OSH laws and regulations in their countries in Africa.

Methodology
The modified Delphi approach was used in this cross-sectional study. Participants were African OSH specialists through the OSHAfrica platform through a link to the online Google Form survey of nine questions. The descriptive analysis was performed via Excel.

Results
Most of the participants came from Nigeria (31%) followed by South Africa (17%). About 1/3 of the participants rated the OSH development in their country along the scale (0-10): Poorly developed (0) to well developed (10) with 5 and 0 participants gave it 10.

Discussion
The findings reveal an urgent need for OSH development in Africa. A National OSH Policy does exist in many African countries but also many do not have one. However, many OSH laws are outdated. In most African countries, the Ministry of Labor is seen as the main OSH regulatory body and the Ministry of Health does not seem to be involved whereas some countries do not have an OSH regulatory authority.“

Conclusion
Africa has many industries that need OSH policies and regulations. This can be done with the existing government entities and training centers and universities to form an OSH regulatory authority system.
O-397 RETIREMENT PENSION POVERTY AMONG INJURED WORKERS WITH LONG TERM WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CLAIMS
Authors: MacEachen Ellen , Hopwood Pam , Crouch Meghan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Sustaining sufficient income in retirement becomes particularly challenging for injured workers supported during their working years by workers’ compensation benefits. This study examined the income security of injured workers aged 65 and older in Ontario (Canada’s largest province) who had spent five years or more on workers’ compensation benefits.

Methods
Our 2019-2022 multi-method study involved: 1) scanning Canadian workers’ compensation policies on retirement age benefits; 2) reviewing Ontario parliament transcripts on political debates surrounding the injured worker pension benefit cuts; 3) in-depth interviews on workers’; experiences of workers’ compensation retirement benefits.

Results
Most Canadian workers’ compensation boards made significant cuts to retirement benefits, substantially reducing retired injured worker incomes. Monthly pension payments had shifted to lump-sum payouts, which disrupted workers’ access to social security supports. The political debates about cuts to injured worker retirement pensions focused mostly on affordability and concepts of worker deservingness. Interviews with injured workers revealed deep poverty of older injured workers.

Discussion
Workers’ compensation is intended to compensate for income losses related to work-related ill-health and injury, including losses to contributions to the Canadian pension retirement plan, but this is no longer provided in Canada and workers face related economic hardship.

Conclusion
Our study is one of the first to examine workers’ compensation benefits for injured workers in retirement. It draws attention to the problem of poverty among injured workers in their retirement years and raises questions about politics, reduced retirement benefits and adequacy of the Canadian social security net.
P-597 SUPPORT NEEDS FOR RETURN TO WORK AMONG SELF-EMPLOYED WORKERS: A FOCUS GROUP STUDY
Authors: De Wit Mariska , Montanus Alexandra , Bosma Astrid , Juurlink Trees 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In the Netherlands, support during sick leave and return to work (RTW) differs between self-employed workers and workers in paid employment. Studies on how to support self-employed workers during their RTW are lacking. Therefore, in this study we aim to explore facilitators, barriers and support needs of self-employed workers when returning to work.

Methods
Three focus groups with in total 15 Dutch self-employed workers who were on sick-leave due to physical or mental health problems, were conducted. The transcripts of the focus groups were analyzed through qualitative content analysis.

Results
Self-employed workers indicated that having autonomy and control over their working hours can be a facilitator for RTW. Most workers did not have disability insurance, mostly because it is too expensive. Therefore, they experienced pressure to keep working despite health complaints. They mentioned a lack of information about self-employment, sick leave and financial consequences. Overall, the workers indicated a need for more financial support, more guidance from occupational health professionals and tailored information regarding their RTW process.

Discussion
Although being self-employed can have advantages when it comes to RTW after sick-leave, overall self-employed workers experience a lack of support in their RTW. The results of this study emphasize the need for optimizing national policy and support for self-employed workers with health problems.

Conclusion
More financial support, guidance from occupational health professionals and tailored information could help self-employed workers during their sick leave and RTW.
P-605 SUPPORTING EMPLOYERS IN IMPLEMENTING GRADUAL RETURNS TO WORK: A TRANSDIAGNOSTIC AND INCLUSIVE TOOL
Authors: Durand Marie-José , Coutu Marie-France , Sylvain Chantal , Côté Daniel 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The Tool for Supporting a Gradual Return to Work (TS-GRTW) allows implementation of gradual RTW by facilitating collaboration between employers and workers with MSD-related work disabilities. This tool was adapted for use with workers who have common mental disorders, taking some vulnerability factors into account. The aim is to test the usability of this adapted tool with individuals responsible for disability management in workplaces.

Methods
A simple descriptive design was retained. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 23 individuals working for at least the previous year in disability management in their workplace. Various types of workplaces were sought. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and transcribed. The verbatim were analyzed based on a qualitative approach.“

Results
The participants (6 M, 17 F, mean age 42.6 years, SD 8.1) came from 10 activity sectors, mostly in large companies. Many of them (17/23) saw benefits in using the tool in their organization, as it allows to:
1. standardize the RTW process,
2. delegate tasks to managers and supervisors,
3. structure communication among stakeholders,
4. monitor actions
5. motivate worker engagement, and
6. foster common understanding and legitimization of the process within the organization.
A large proportion of participants (17/23) envisaged using the tool. Certain organizational constraints could limit implementation (e.g. lack of time).

Discussion
Our results support the usability of the adapted TS-GRTW by potential users. However, our results mainly reflect large companies, which often have structures in place.

Conclusion
The next step would be to test usability with the workers and its implementation.
P-619 ASSESSMENT OF MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS IN AN AGRI-FOOD FACTORY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Daoud Hanene , Sellami Imen , Ben Chabene Cyrine , Feki Afef , Rmadi Nehla , Meska Ahmed , Ghrab Mohamed Anis , Haddar Aicha , Hajjaji Mounira , Masmoudi Mohamed Larbi , Hammami Kaouthar Jmal 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the agri-food sector result from various work-related factors, posing challenges for companies. This study aims to assess MSDs and associated sociodemographic, occupational, and psychosocial risk factors.

Methods
A cross-sectional study in a Sfax confectionery factory involved 132 workers. Questionnaires and workplace assessments gathered data. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire screened for MSDs, while the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 evaluated mental health.

Results
The majority were women (61.2%). The mean age was 33.2 ± 8.7 years, with 8.5 ± 8 years of work experience. Participants worked 48 hours/week, with 56% perceiving workload as difficult. Prevalence of MSDs was 62.1%, primarily in the lower back (33.3%), neck (28.9%), and shoulders (28.5%). Severe depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were observed in 8.3%, 17.4%, and 12.1% respectively. MSDs were significantly associated with age, work experience, work ability, biomechanical constraints, and mental health issues.

Discussion
Industrious sector work exposes employees to physical and psychosocial factors, contributing to MSDs. Associations between MSDs, age, work experience, work ability, biomechanical constraints, and mental health issues emphasize the complex interplay of factors influencing MSD occurrence.

Conclusion
Working conditions in the agri-food sector led to MSDs. Detecting MSDs and their risk factors can guide preventive strategies to enhance workplace health and safety.
Workplace ethical climate and its relationship with depression, anxiety and stress
Authors: Borrelli I , Melcore G , Perrotta A , Santoro P E , Rossi M F , Moscato U 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Ethical climate in the workplace has been highlighted to have an important impact on workers’ mental health; the evaluation of workplace ethics and its impact on workers’ health should be considered an occupational health issue.

Aims
The present study aims to investigate ethical climate as perceived by workers, and its correlation with mental health outcomes, in particular, symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was performed by administering an online survey, investigating socio-demographic variables, workplace ethics (through the Italian short version of the Corporate Ethical Virtues questionnaire) and mental health outcomes (using the short version of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale). Descriptive analyses, analyses of variance and regression models were performed; P-values were considered significant for values ≤0.05.

Results
The sample included 176 workers; the mean age of participants was 46.22 years and 44% were males. The most represented job sector was health care (37%), and 42% of participants had college-level education. Ethical climate was significantly correlated with all mental health outcomes investigated in the study: anxiety (P ≤ 0.001), depression (P ≤ 0.05) and stress (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions
Results from this study highlighted a significant correlation between workplace ethical climate and depression, anxiety and stress. This study underlines the importance of evaluating and improving ethical climate to prevent the onset of psychological distress in workers. Furthermore, results from this study should be a starting point for future research investigating the role of ethics and mental health in employees’ turnover intention and job satisfaction.