bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-237 OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE TO CYTOSTATIC DRUGS AND HEALTH EFFECTS IN MOROCCO: PILOT STUDY IN THE FES-MEKNES REGION
Authors: Chetouani Hala , Menouni Aziza , Bouazzi Omaima El , Berni Imane , Godderis Lode , El Jaafari Samir 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Cytostatic or antineoplastic drugs are mainly used in chemotherapy for cancer treatment. The daily use of cytostatic drugs by healthcare professionals might expose them to several health risks. Our study aims to monitor occupational and environmental exposure to cytostatic drugs among health care workers and predict its health risks.

Methods
We first launched in Morocco an online survey to assess knowledge and practices related to the use of personal protective equipment among health professionals. Then, we conducted a pilot cross-sectional study among 45 health workers to identify methods for exposure evaluation and to quantitatively evaluate the exposure to cytostatics. Wipe sampling is taken from surfaces, objects and PPEs, and combined with dermal sampling from health care workers, to be analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer. Human biomonitoring focuses on the investigation of 6 cytostatics excreted in urine.Neurotoxicological and epigenetic biomarkers are assessed and correlated to cytostatics concentrations.

Results
The results show that 20.8% of healthcare workers regularly use PPEs, and that 72.7% are not trained in the safe handling of cytostatic drugs. 43.6% report to be less aware of the cytostatic risks on their health.

Discussion
Results are expected to highlight the risks of unintended exposure to cytostatic drugs in occupational setting and pave the way for a larger study confirming our preliminary results.

Conclusion
Our pilot study should also lead to greater awareness raising and tailored occupational health programs.
P-239 SAFEGUARDING HEALTHCARE WORKERS’ WELL-BEING DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: LESSONS AND STRATEGIES FROM UNIVERSITI MALAYA MEDICAL CENTRE
Authors: Hoe Victor , Lim Yin Cheng , Krishna Rama , Baharudin Faiz 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 had profound global implications, with healthcare workers (HCWs) on the frontlines, especially those in hospitals, facing significant challenges. At Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), we recognized the crucial importance of protecting HCWs’ well-being and addressing their mental health amidst this crisis. Throughout various phases of the pandemic, HCWs encountered diverse mental health issues. Initially, they grappled with anxiety and fear, fueled by the scarcity of knowledge and the rampant spread of misinformation. Subsequently, they faced social isolation, burnout, depression, emotional distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and moral distress. UMMC’s experience provided valuable insights that informed our management approach. We swiftly devised and implemented measures to respond to emerging needs. Our response was bolstered by three key factors: i) a strong, dedicated, and responsive management team, ii) an established Occupational and Public Health Service, and iii) resource personnel with a solid foundation in occupational and public health. The implemented measures encompassed the formation of a risk assessment team, a psychosocial telephone helpline, childcare facilities for HCWs, designated accommodations for quarantined or apprehensive HCWs, efficient communication channels through emails and townhall sessions with experts and top management, and the development of HCW-friendly work schedules, among others. This presentation aims to outline the strategies and framework we employed to manage mental health challenges in a hospital setting during future pandemics.
P-248 BURNOUT AND METABOLIC SYNDROME IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Fki Amene , Thabet Oumayma , Sridi Chayma , Chelly Farah , Gadha Nabil Ben , Ksibi Sonia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Healthcare workers are exposed to job-related stress factors that can lead to burnout. Some studies have suggested that burnout has an impact on metabolic profile. This study aimed to assess the association between burnout and metabolic syndrome in healthcare workers at the Sahloul University Hospital in Tunisia.

Methods
Data was collected from a cross-sectional study using a questionnaire exploring socio-démographic and professional data, lifestyle habits and pathological history. A physical examination and a biological check-up were completed. Burnout was assessed using the Maslash Burnout Inventory test. The definition established by the International Diabetes Federation was adopted for the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome.

Results
A total of 139 healthcare workers participated in our study, 82% of whom were female. The average age was 41.9 ± 9.11 years. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome and burnout was 25.6% and 41.8%, respectively, with a high emotional exhaustion score in 47.8%, a high depersonalization score in 23.9% and a low personal accomplishment score in 73.1%. There was no significant association between metabolic syndrome and burnout (p=0.93). However, metabolic syndrome was associated with age (p=0.01), the presence of a pathological history (p=0.000), the means of transport used (p=0.049) and a history of work-related accidents (p=0.001).

Discussion
In this sample of healthcare workers, the prevalence of burnout and metabolic syndrome was similar than that reported in other studies. The association between these two entities remains controversial.

Conclusion
Strategies need to be developed to prevent burnout and metabolic syndrome in the hospital workplace, by improving lifestyle habits and stress management.
P-258 RISK OF BURNOUT SYNDROME AMONG PEDIATRIC HEALTHCARE WORKERS
Authors: Khouja Nihel , Bechrifa Emna , Ismail Saloua , Baraketi Emna , Fatma Naourez Ben , Belkahla Amira , Guitouni Yosra , Hsinet Jihen , Benzarti Aida , Marzouk Asma , Bouaziz Asma 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Pediatric healthcare workers (HCWs) are exposed to occupational stress factors that may lead to the development of psychiatric disorders such as burnout syndrome.

Objective
To screen burnout syndrome in HCWs and identify its risk factors.

Methods
we conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study among HCWs in a pediatric department using a Self-administered questionnaire combined with the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) psychological test.

Results
30 HCWs were included. They were primarily doctors (37%) and paramedical professionals (47%), with an average age of 37±10 years and an average professional seniority of 9years. HCWs reported experiencing certain temporary (80%) and organizational (59%) work constraints. Among the participants, 53% reported being victims of violence, mainly verbal aggression in 87% of cases, which had a significant impact on their psychological health (reported by 97% of victims). Additionally, 39% were under psychiatric care. The MBI test revealed a high emotional exhaustion score in 79% of cases, a high depersonalization score in 37%, and a low personal fulfillment score in 57%. The combination of these three scores revealed a high risk of Burnout in 17% of cases. Emotional Exhaustion was significantly correlated with home-to-work commuting time (p=0.26) and poor working conditions (p=0.008). Depersonalization was associated with job seniority (p=0.33), number of working hours (p=0.003), and absence of breaks (p=0.42).

Discussion
Despite the high risk, few studies have looked at the psychological burden experienced by HCWs in pediatric medicine.

Conclusion
the risk of burnout syndrome is not negligible among pediatric HCWs. Targeted preventive action must be taken to eliminate it.
P-271 RESPIRATORY SYMPTOMS IN POST COVID SYNDROME IN HEALTHCARE WORKERS
Authors: Kacem Imene , Kahloul Mohamed , Moussa Amen , Ghenim Amal , Chouchane Asma , Ajmi Mohamed , Aloui Asma , Brahem Aicha , Kalboussi Houda , Maalel Olfa El , Chatti Souhail , Naija Walid , Maoua Maher , Mrizak Nejib 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Lung injury is one of the most common and damaging lesions of COVID-19. Some of the manifestations may persist after the clinical recovery as part of a post-COVID syndrome.

Aim
To study the prevalence of persistent respiratory symptoms after COVID-19 infection and its associated factors.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare workers at a Tunisian Hospital, who tested positive for SARS-COV2 during the period from 01/09/2020 to 28/02/2021.

Results
A total of 474 workers were included, with a mean age of 41.02 ±10.67 years. A female predominance was noted (79.3%). A medical history was reported in 37.9% of cases of which 16.3% had a respiratory history. The rate of respiratory manifestations of covid-19 was 38.4% and consisted of (35.6%) cough, (5.8%) dyspnea, and (5.8%) chest pain. At 3-month follow-up, respiratory symptoms of the post-covid syndrome were dominated by shortness of breath on effort (23.8%), chest pain (8.4%), and cough (7.4%). Chest CT scans were performed in 33 patients and were normal in 33.3% of cases. The evaluation duration of dyspnea, chest pain and cough in the post-COVID phase were more prolonged in patients who were not hospitalized during the acute phase of the infection compared to those who were hospitalized with a statistically significant difference for dyspnea (p dyspnea=0.024) and for chest pain (p chest pain=0.023).

Discussion and Conclusion
The high rate of respiratory manifestations of post covid syndrome underlines the importance of further work in order to prevent its possible complications.
O-153 METABOLIC SYNDROME SCREENING IN THE WORK POPULATION
Authors: Arrivillaga Alvaro 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The significant increase in Metabolic Syndrome (MS), worldwide with the consequent increase in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, prompted us to investigate the prevalence of risk factors in a young, healthy and active working population.

Methodology
Observational, descriptive, retrospective cross-sectional design, which included 167 workers from a beverage production plant (29% women, 71% men), from 19 to 68 years (80% under 40 years of age), who were measured according to the parameters of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III), in order to assess the presence of MS.

Results
the prevalence of MS was 27%, with hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia being the most frequent risk factors in 88% and 78%. Only 15 workers did not present any risk factor. 33% presented at least 2 risk factors, which places them on the borderline of MS. The prevalence of MS increased according to age, being 15% for 21 to 30 years, and 67% for the group over 60 years. A poor nutritional status occurred in 73% of the cases with MS, and 54% of all workers had some degree of BMI outside the normal range.

Discussion and Conclusions
The prevalence of MS found is like that reported worldwide (27%), however, as it is a young population and with a large percentage (33%) of at least 2 factors, it should be cause for alarm and intervention in the promotion of health in the workplace.
O-158 OSH/COVID 19 RESPONSE PROGRAMMES IN FOOD MARKETS: THE BULAWAYO EXPERIENCE
Authors: Yalala Nonhlanhla Ndhlovu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
The informal sector in Zimbabwe has grown by large proportions in recent years. Everyone at one time or another can be an informal sector worker. The Covid 19 pandemic has worsened the plight of workers in this sector. It is against this background that an OSH and Covid 19 response programme was initiated.

Objective
The programme sought to strengthen OSH provisions and alleviate the impact of Covid 19 on the work environments of these workers.

Method
The programme used a participatory approach where the workers, their representatives, the Local Authority, and some government departments collaborated. The workers highlighted their problems and how they would like these solved. 2 food market sites were chosen for the programme. A needs assessment was conducted through focused group discussions (FGDs using a questionnaire) with the workers and their representatives. The findings from these were used to formulate interventions.

Findings
The workers highlighted that workstations were not ergonomically friendly, erratic water supply, dirty sanitary facilities, there were no waste bins available making waste management nearly impossible, there was no social protection benefits provided, they had not received any OSH training and they had little access to PPC/E considering Covid 19.

Conclusion
The programme sought to provide water, to redesign their workstations, provided waste management facilities, OSH training was conducted and Covid 19 prevention methods such as Infrared thermometers, face masks, sanitisers were provided to them. It was also noted that this should be an ongoing programme in the informal sector.
P-280 OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH CONCERNS AMONG SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED FOOD AND BAG MANUFACTURING BUSINESSES IN INDONESIA: OWNERS AND EMPLOYEES PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Maharani Cynthia , Casteel Carri , Rohlman Diane , Afifi Rima , Fethke Nathan , Baker Kelly 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introductions
Small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) serve as the world’s economic engine due to their essential contributions in providing employment and revenue in almost every part of the world, including in Indonesia. The most recent data reported that there were more than 800,000 SMBs in Indonesia which employed 8 million people. One of the sectors that contributed highest to the Indonesia’s economy is manufacturing, including food and bag manufacturing. However, little is known about occupational safety and health (OSH) concerns among these businesses.

Methods
This qualitative study utilized in-depth interviews to describe OSH concerns among small and medium sized food and bag manufacturing owners and employees. All the businesses located in Bogor City, West Java province. The coding process utilized Dedoose.

Results
Findings showed most business owners prioritized productivity over employees’ safety. Most employees rarely report their OSH related concerns to the owners and believed they were being responsible for their own health and safety at work.

Discussion
Aligned with prior studies, owners and employees had casual relationships that put the employees to appreciate the owners. When injury happened, employees believed it was their fault and nothing could be done to prevent it. Most employees mentioned, ‘I just need to be more careful.’

Conclusion
‘Family-like’ relationships between the business owners and employees may affect how the employees chose to not report OSH related concerns to the owners. Business owners may need basic OSH trainings to provide them guidance on how to implement OSH in their workplaces.
P-289 REFORMING WORKER COMPENSATION INSURANCE: INCLUSION OF FOREIGN DOMESTIC WORKERS AND CAREGIVERS FROM TAIWANESE EXPERIENCE
Authors: Chen Ping Hui 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Taiwan’s worker compensation insurance has been criticized for inadequate coverage. Not all employees are eligible for insurance. Since May, 2022, Taiwan’s worker compensation insurance has been reformed, which provided wider coverage with better protection.

Methods
To investigate the impact of Taiwan’s worker compensation insurance reform, we carry out both qualitative and quantitative analysis. We compare insurance eligibility and insurance benefits before and after the reform, and the potential impact is discussed. To validate these potential effects, using released data from Taiwan’s worker compensation insurance, we compare insured persons, incidence of occupational injuries and illness before and after the reform.

Results
After the reform, all employers are required to provide worker compensation insurance to their employees. Discontinuity regression analysis shows that the number of insured employees increases significantly by time (about 16600 employees/month) and increases once after the reform (about 160000 employees), which is explained by the inclusion of foreign domestic workers and caregivers. However, their occupation injuries and diseases still rarely get compensated. The incidence rate ratios of their occupational injuries and diseases are only 0.09 (0.07-0.11) and 0.03-0.08, compared with workers from the same industry category and workers with the same gender and age. However, discontinuity regression analysis also shows that their occupation injuries and diseases get compensated more, significantly by time.

Conclusion
After the reform, more employees are insured by worker compensation insurance, majorly by inclusion of foreign domestic workers and caregivers. However, we have to overcome more obstacles to ensure their occupation injuries and diseases are fully compensated.
P-292 WORKING CONDITIONS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS IN WASTE RECYCLERS, JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: Naicker Nisha , Richard Dumisani , Keretetse Goitsemang 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
South Africa has established various buy-back centres to aid in the recycling of created waste as a response to the rapid growth in waste generated. Previous research has indicated that the recyclers that sort waste are at higher risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). The purpose of the study is to evaluate the working environments and prevalence of self-reported musculoskeletal disorders among waste recyclers at buy-back facilities.

Methods
A cross-sectional quantitative study design was used to randomly sample 160 participants from ten buy back centers. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, workplace exposures and health outcomes.

Results
Frequencies were used to describe the study population and risk factors for MSDs were identified using logistic regression (crude and adjusted OR) at a significance level of &lt; 0.05. The prevalence of MSDs among waste recyclers was 29.38% (n=47). There were statistically significant differences among participants with and without MSDs for the following factors: gender, education, lifting of heavy objects and injuries due to motor vehicle accidents at work. Multivariate analysis showed waste recyclers with work shift of 8-9 hours per day: (OR:1.36: 1.07-1.74) and 10+ hours (OR:1.50: 1.04-21.5), and those who did not report unsafe working conditions (OR:1.44: 1.10-1.88) were more likely to suffer from MSDs.

Discussions
Limitations included the cross-sectional nature of the study and the small sample size.

Conclusion
The study has highlighted the increased risk of occupational working conditions and the effect on health of waste recyclers and points out the need for mechanization of buy-back centres to prevent MSDs.
O-161 BIOLOGICAL MONITORING OF GLYPHOSATE EXPOSURE AND HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT AMONG KNAPSACK SPRAYERS IN THAILAND
Authors: Chaiklieng Sunisa , Uengchuen Kodchakorn 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Glyphosate is a nonselective herbicide that has been extensively used worldwide in weed control for agricultural purposes. Its health risk to sprayers is rising as the use of glyphosate increases. This study aimed to investigate the sprayers’ exposure to glyphosate by analyzing the glyphosate biomarker from spot urine biological monitoring and health risk assessment.

Methods
Urine samples were collected from glyphosate sprayers in Nam Phong district, Khon Kaen province, Thailand, after spraying. For glyphosate exposure, the concentration in urine was determined using the proposed DLLME-HPLC with a UV detector. The human health risk was estimated by the margin of exposure (MOE) calculation and the biomatrix health risk assessment based on glyphosate biomarkers.

Results
The calibration curve for glyphosate was linear in the range of 0.4-100 µg/L, while the limit of detection and quantification were 0.1 µg/L and 0.4 µg/L, respectively. It was found that the internal dose ranged from 0.133 x10-3 - 2.213 x10-3 µg/kg b.w./day. The MOE and MOE of cancer indicated that there were no potential health concerns associated with the risk. A good correlation between risk levels from likelihood of exposure calculated from glyphosate and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage and the biomatrix of health risk assessment based on the glyphosate concentration was found (r = 0.854, p &lt; 0.001).

Conclusion
Although a low risk was revealed among sprayers, proper PPE use and application of knowledge are required. The simplified health risk assessment matrix can be used for easy self-risk assessment in preventive action regarding health risk awareness among sprayers.
P-296 DDT WATER CONTAMINATION AND THE IMPACT ON WATER QUALITY ACCESS IN AFRICA IN RELATION TO HUMAN HEALTH RISKS
Authors: Makgoba Lethabo , Abrams Amber , Dalvie Mohamed Aqiel 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
DDT usage is prohibited in developed nations but exempted for malaria vector control in several developing countries. Pollution of water systems from DDT applications is a significant human health risk for exposed workers and communities but no review has been conducted before in Africa.

Methods
The study reviewed available research investigating the levels of DDT residues in water sources in Africa and assessed the consequent human health risks. A scoping review of published studies conducted in Africa was facilitated through a search using 4 databases.

Results
A total of 20 studies in 10 African countries were reviewed. DDT residues were detected in several surface and ground water sources and municipal supplies including drinking water, with levels ranging between 0- 81. µg/l, 35% exceeding the Word Health Organisation drinking water guideline (1 µg/l). DDT residues were detected throughout the year but were higher during the rainy season. A cancer risk from DDT was found in 2 out of 5 studies that conducted health risk assessments, both investigating drinking water.

Discussion
As in other developing countries, limited data is available in Africa.

Conclusion
Evidence of human health risks was found as the concentration of DDT residues exceeded drinking water guidelines and/or cancer risk permissible limits in several drinking sources in African water systems. Alternative methods for malaria vector control should be investigated. Larger studies that include risk assessments and seasonal monitoring of DDT residues in multiple water sources are recommended.
O-171 ANALYSIS OF SAFETY DATA SHEETS (SDS) FOR CLEANING AND DISINFECTING PRODUCTS USED IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY
Authors: Charioui Souad 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The SDS is an informational document with a formalized content, divided into 16 sections. The purpose of this study is to check the conformity of the SDSs for each chemical product, used for cleaning and disinfection in a food processing company, and to analyze the information they contain.

Methods
The occupational medical service conducted an inventory of these chemical products and their SDSs in May 2023. All the SDSs were analyzed and compared to the standard SDS format and content. We focused on the medical data, that is most relevant to the user’s health.

Results
Eight chemicals were listed. SDSs available for only 7 Products. The form and content are not conforming for some of them. The first aid measures mentioned in section 4 of some SDSs can have serious consequences; they are missing in only one hazardous product data sheet. The personal protection mentioned in section 8 contradicts the hazard and protection statements for one product.

Discussion
Our study is consistent with other similar studies, in that SDSs are not formally compliant and the content of certain headings is missing, incorrect or incomplete.

Conclusion
The SDS is an important means of managing chemical risk in the workplace. It is essential for the occupational physician to request SDSs for chemical products with which workers come into contact, and to read them with an analytical eye in order to provide relevant advice if incorrect or incomplete information is found that could mislead workers.