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Howe AS, Tan J, Yuen B, Saini H, Saade-Cleves N, Obeidat D, Shahzad M, Chattu VK, Fatemi AB, Nowrouzi-Kia B. Physical and Psychosocial Correlates of Occupational Physical Injury in the Global Construction Industry: A Scoping Review. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2024; 18:11786302241270371. [PMID: 39188508 PMCID: PMC11345736 DOI: 10.1177/11786302241270371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Purpose The construction industry is a diverse sector with exposure to multiple psychosocial and environmental workplace hazards that increase the risk of injury. This scoping review aims to consolidate the existing literature on the physical and psychosocial determinants influencing the risk of occupational physical injuries among construction workers globally. Methods A scoping review was conducted using the PRISMA extension checklist guided. Literature searches were performed between June and October 2023 in electronic academic databases. Results A total of 77 studies were identified, encompassing various geographical regions, including North America (n = 29), Africa (n = 18), Europe (n = 12), Asia (n = 9), the Middle East (n = 5), and Oceania (n = 4). The review identified physical and psychosocial factors in 3 domains influencing occupational physical injuries: workplace physical environment (eg, exposure to physical hazards, availability and utilization of personal protective equipment, company size, and job type), workplace culture (eg, psychosocial stressors, gender-related barriers, migrant and ethnic disparities, educational background), and physical wellbeing, health and aging (eg, age, obesity, sleep quality, marital stats, and physical health status). Notably, workers from social minority groups (eg, women, ethnic and migrant workers) of young (<25 years old) or older ages (45-55 years old) employed in smaller construction companies are vulnerable to increased injury risk and exposure to physical and psychosocial hazards in the workplace. Conclusion The review emphasizes a global paucity of research examining the implications of physical and psychosocial factors on injury risk within the construction industry. Future research should prioritize investigating the impact of psychosocial hazards on younger and older workers to detect age-related differences in injury rate, treatment access, and work-related health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron S Howe
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeremy Tan
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Beatrice Yuen
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Harseerat Saini
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Natalia Saade-Cleves
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Donia Obeidat
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Maryam Shahzad
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vijay Kumar Chattu
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, India
| | - Ali-Bani Fatemi
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Behdin Nowrouzi-Kia
- Restore Lab, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Aurelius K, Söderberg M, Wahlström V, Waern M, LaMontagne AD, Åberg M. Perceptions of mental health, suicide and working conditions in the construction industry-A qualitative study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307433. [PMID: 39047049 PMCID: PMC11268583 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to explore perceptions of mental ill health, suicidal behaviour and working conditions among male construction workers, in order to gain an in-depth understanding of these phenomenon and to identify relevant avenues for workplace interventions. METHOD Data were collected in individual and group interviews, and 43 individuals from the Swedish construction industry, workers, union representative and managers, participated in the study. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. RESULTS Five main themes were found: Difficult to talk about mental health, Demanding working environment affects mental health, Substance abuse among construction workers, Importance of management, and Need for routines and social support in the workplace. Many participants reported that there was a stigma related to mental health. Suicides that had occurred among colleagues were perceived to come out of the blue. The working environment in the construction industry was perceived to have a negative effect on mental health, and it was reported that the management played an important role in both the cause and prevention of mental health problems. CONCLUSIONS The results from this Swedish study are in accordance with previous international research regarding a macho culture, stigma of mental health and a demanding working environment in the construction industry. The study adds to existing knowledge by highlighting that suicides were perceived to be very unexpected, that poor physical health affected mental health and that many participants did not know how to deal with mental health issues in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Aurelius
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mia Söderberg
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Viktoria Wahlström
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Margda Waern
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anthony D. LaMontagne
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Institute for Health Transformation & School of Health & Social Development, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria Åberg
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Regionhälsan, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Lee S, Kim YJ, Kim Y, Kang D, Kim SC, Kim SY. Incidence rates of injury, musculoskeletal, skin, pulmonary and chronic diseases among construction workers by classification of occupations in South Korea: a 1,027 subject-based cohort of the Korean Construction Worker's Cohort (KCWC). Ann Occup Environ Med 2023; 35:e26. [PMID: 37614337 PMCID: PMC10442585 DOI: 10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The objective of this study is to investigate the differences in incidence rates of targeted diseases by classification of occupations among construction workers in Korea. Methods In a subject-based cohort of the Korean Construction Worker's Cohort, we surveyed a total of 1,027 construction workers. As occupational exposure, the classification of occupations was developed using two axes: construction business and job type. To analyze disease incidence, we linked survey data with National Health Insurance Service data. Eleven target disease categories with high prevalence or estimated work-relatedness among construction workers were evaluated in our study. The average incidence rates were calculated as cases per 1,000 person-years (PY). Results Injury, poisoning, and certain other consequences of external causes had the highest incidence rate of 344.08 per 1,000 PY, followed by disease of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue for 208.64 and diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue for 197.87 in our cohort. We especially found that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was more common in construction painters, civil engineering welders, and civil engineering frame mold carpenters, asthma in construction painters, landscape, and construction water proofers, interstitial lung diseases in construction water proofers. Conclusions This is the first study to systematically classify complex construction occupations in order to analyze occupational diseases in Korean construction workers. There were differences in disease incidences among construction workers based on the classification of occupations. It is necessary to develop customized occupational safety and health policies for high-risk occupations for each disease in the construction industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungho Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Yoon-Ji Kim
- Department of Preventive, and Occupational & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Youngki Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Preventive, and Occupational & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Dongmug Kang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Preventive, and Occupational & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
| | - Seung Chan Kim
- Department of Biostatistics Cooperation Center, Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
| | - Se-Yeong Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
- Department of Preventive, and Occupational & Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Korea
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Chen X, Yin W, Wu J, Luo Y, Wu J, Li G, Jiang J, Yao Y, Wan S, Yi G, Tan X. A nomogram for predicting lung-related diseases among construction workers in Wuhan, China. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1032188. [PMID: 36579057 PMCID: PMC9792134 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1032188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To develop a prediction nomogram for the risk of lung-related diseases (LRD) in construction workers. Methods Seven hundred and fifty-two construction workers were recruited. A self- designed questionnaire was performed to collected relevant information. Chest X-ray was taken to judge builders' lung health. The potential predictors subsets of the risk of LRD were screened by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and univariate analysis, and determined by using multivariate logistic regression analysis, then were used for developing a prediction nomogram for the risk of LRD. C-index, calibration curve, receiver operating characteristic curve, decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curve analysis (CICA) were used to evaluation the identification, calibration, predictive ability and clinical effectiveness of the nomogram. Results Five hundred and twenty-six construction workers were allocated to training group and 226 to validation group. The predictors included in the nomogram were symptoms, years of dust exposure, work in shifts and labor intensity. Our model showed good discrimination ability, with a bootstrap-corrected C index of 0.931 (95% CI = 0.906-0.956), and had well-fitted calibration curves. The area under the curve (AUC) of the nomogram were (95% CI = 0.906-0.956) and 0.945 (95% CI = 0.891-0.999) in the training and validation groups, respectively. The results of DCA and CICA indicated that the nomogram may have clinical usefulness. Conclusion We established and validated a novel nomogram that can provide individual prediction of LRD for construction workers. This practical prediction model may help occupational physicians in decision making and design of occupational health examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuyu Chen
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wenjun Yin
- Wuhan Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Wuhan Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yongbin Luo
- Wuhan Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jing Wu
- Wuhan Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Guangming Li
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jinfeng Jiang
- Wuhan Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yong Yao
- Wuhan Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Siyu Wan
- Wuhan Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Guilin Yi
- Wuhan Prevention and Treatment Center for Occupational Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China,*Correspondence: Guilin Yi
| | - Xiaodong Tan
- School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Xiaodong Tan
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Wronska MD, Coffey M, Robins A. Determinants of nutrition practice and food choice in UK construction workers. Health Promot Int 2022; 37:6722664. [PMID: 36166265 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The workplace is considered an effective setting for health and wellbeing interventions, including programmes focusing on nutrition, and provides opportunities to tailor programmes to meet the specific needs of industry and employees. This study explored nutrition practices amongst construction workers and managers to inform the design of a nutrition intervention. Five focus groups were conducted on three construction sites: two with managers (n = 11) and three with workers (n = 27). Construction workers and managers identified several unhealthy nutrition-related behaviours, including high consumption of convenient and fast foods, excessive coffee, alcohol, energy drinks and low fruit and vegetable intake. These behaviours were often attributed to high workloads, long working hours and physically demanding jobs. Snacking and skipping meals were repeatedly reported, attributed to short breaks and poor accessibility to food outlets. The nutritional quality of meals differed between individuals (homemade vs fast food), depending on the type of sites (temporary vs permanent) and site location. Nutrition knowledge, establishing routines, meal planning and preparation were recognized as important in sustaining healthy nutrition habits. However, meal preparation depended on the facilities available, which differed between managers and workers, highlighting the complex relationship between the workplace context and eating behaviours. Construction workers were interested in learning about nutrition and improving their eating habits through nutrition intervention. However, they highlighted that better cooking and storage facilities on site, together with fewer job demands and longer break times, would enhance the sustainability of the intervention and their ability to make healthier food choices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margaret Coffey
- School of Health and Society, The University of Salford, Manchester, UK
| | - Anna Robins
- School of Health and Society, The University of Salford, Manchester, UK
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Chen J, Cheng B, Xie W, Su M. Occupational Dust Exposure and Respiratory Protection of Migrant Interior Construction Workers in Two Chinese Cities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:113. [PMID: 36011748 PMCID: PMC9408467 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Migrant interior construction workers are increasing in China. Construction workers are at an increased risk of work-related illness (WRI) due to prolonged exposure to and inhalation of dust. Dust concentrations in the air can be reduced significantly with effective respiratory protection measures. We assessed the dust exposure and factors associated with respiratory protection of migrant interior construction workers. The total dust concentration in the workplace ranged from 0.07 to 335.27 mg/m3, with a total dust exceedance rate of 50.00%. The respiratory dust loading ranged from 0.03 to 220.27 mg/m3, with a respiratory dust exceedance rate of 71.42 %. The highest total dust concentration occurred when masons were polishing cement walls. We performed a questionnaire survey of 296 persons in two cities in China, in which 87.84% had no respiratory protection or only one protection measure. Gender, workplace, respiratory disease, and protective attitude all had an effect on the level of respiratory protection. The dust exposure in most jobs exceeds hygiene standards. The respiratory protection of migrant interior construction workers in China is inadequate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfu Chen
- Department of Pathology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- MPH Education Center, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xin Ling Road, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Bowen Cheng
- Department of Pathology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- MPH Education Center, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xin Ling Road, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Department of Pathology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- MPH Education Center, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xin Ling Road, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Min Su
- Department of Pathology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-0754-8890-0429
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7
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Ceballos DM, Dong Z, Peters JL, Herrick RF, Gupta P, Spengler JD. Metals dust in workers' homes and potential for take home in the Greater Boston area: Pilot study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 209:112893. [PMID: 35131322 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.112893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Toxic metals such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, are present at construction worksites. From work, metals can easily, unintentionally be transported to homes of workers, contaminating living spaces and affecting others including children, known as "take-home exposure." Focus has been given to minimizing lead take-home exposure but less is known about other metals. This pilot study aims to better understand the sources and predictors of metals in the home primarily of construction workers (n = 21), but also explore other workers potentially exposed [janitorial (n = 4) and auto repair (n = 2) jobs]. Greater Boston workers were recruited in 2018-2019 through collaboration with community-based organizations and worker unions serving low-income/immigrant workers. During a home visit, a dust vacuum sample was collected, a worker questionnaire was administered, and home observations were performed to determine factors that could affect home metals concentration. Thirty elements were analyzed in the dust via inductively coupled plasma coupled to atomic emission and mass spectrometry. We performed univariable and multivariable models, potential predictive factors, and multivariable mixed-effect regression analyses combining metals. Arsenic, chromium, copper, lead, manganese, nickel, and tin, commonly found in construction, were higher in construction workers' home dust compared to other workers, although not statistically significant. Sociodemographic/work/home-related variables affected home metals dust concentrations. Various work-related factors were associated with higher metal dust levels, for example: no work locker vs. locker (nickel ratio of means or ROM = 4.2, p < 0.05); mixing vs. no mixing work/personal items (nickel ROM = 1.6, p < 0.05); dusty vs. no dusty at work (copper ROM = 3.1, p < 0.05); not washing vs. washing hands after work (manganese ROM = 1.4, p < 0.05); not changing vs. changing clothes after work (cadmium ROM = 6.9, p < 0.05; copper ROM = 3.6, p < 0.05). Mixed effect regression confirmed statistical significance, which suggests a likelihood of metal mixtures carrying a "take-home" potential. Lead home interventions should evaluate other metals exposure reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M Ceballos
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, Landmark Center 4th Floor West, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Zhao Dong
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, Landmark Center 4th Floor West, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Junenette L Peters
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Talbot Building 4th Floor West, Boston, MA 02118A, USA
| | - Robert F Herrick
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, Landmark Center 4th Floor West, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Paridhi Gupta
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Talbot Building 4th Floor West, Boston, MA 02118A, USA
| | - John D Spengler
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 401 Park Drive, Landmark Center 4th Floor West, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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8
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Binazzi A, Di Marzio D, Verardo M, Migliore E, Benfatto L, Malacarne D, Mensi C, Consonni D, Eccher S, Mazzoleni G, Comiati V, Negro C, Romanelli A, Chellini E, Angelini A, Grappasonni I, Madeo G, Romeo E, Di Giammarco A, Carrozza F, Angelillo IF, Cavone D, Vimercati L, Labianca M, Tallarigo F, Tumino R, Melis M, Bonafede M, Scarselli A, Marinaccio A. Asbestos Exposure and Malignant Mesothelioma in Construction Workers-Epidemiological Remarks by the Italian National Mesothelioma Registry (ReNaM). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010235. [PMID: 35010496 PMCID: PMC8744912 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Notwithstanding the ban in 1992, asbestos exposure for workers in the construction sector in Italy remains a concern. The purpose of this study is to describe the characteristics of malignant mesothelioma (MM) cases recorded by the Italian registry (ReNaM) among construction workers. Incident mesothelioma cases with a definite asbestos exposure have been analyzed. Characteristics of cases and territorial clusters of crude rates of MM in construction workers have been described, as well as the relation between asbestos use before the ban and the historical trend of workforce in the construction sector in Italy. ReNaM has collected 31,572 incident MM cases in the period from 1993 to 2018 and asbestos exposure has been assessed for 24,864 (78.2%) cases. An occupational exposure has been reported for 17,191 MM cases (69.1% of subjects with a definite asbestos exposure). Among them, 3574 had worked in the construction sector, with an increasing trend from 15.8% in the 1993–98 period to 23.9% in 2014–2018 and a ubiquitous territorial distribution. The large use of asbestos in construction sector before the ban makes probability of exposure for workers a real concern still today, particularly for those working in maintenance and removal of old buildings. There is a clear need to assess, inform, and prevent asbestos exposure in this sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Binazzi
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Istituto Nazionale per l’Assicurazione Contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro, 00143 Roma, Italy; (A.B.); (D.D.M.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Davide Di Marzio
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Istituto Nazionale per l’Assicurazione Contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro, 00143 Roma, Italy; (A.B.); (D.D.M.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Marina Verardo
- Valle d’Aosta Health Local Unit, Regional Operating Center of Valle d’Aosta (COR Valle d’Aosta), 11100 Aosta, Italy;
| | - Enrica Migliore
- Unit of Cancer Epidemiology, Regional Operating Center of Piemonte (COR Piemonte), University of Torino and CPO-Piemonte, 10124 Torino, Italy;
| | - Lucia Benfatto
- Regional Operating Center of Liguria (COR Liguria), UO Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS AOU Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.B.); (D.M.)
| | - Davide Malacarne
- Regional Operating Center of Liguria (COR Liguria), UO Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS AOU Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.B.); (D.M.)
| | - Carolina Mensi
- Epidemiology Unit, Regional Operating Center of Lombardia (COR Lombardia), Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; (C.M.); (D.C.)
| | - Dario Consonni
- Epidemiology Unit, Regional Operating Center of Lombardia (COR Lombardia), Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milano, Italy; (C.M.); (D.C.)
| | - Silvia Eccher
- Hygiene and Occupational Medicine, Provincial Unit of Health, Regional Operating Center of Autonomous Province of Trento (COR A.P. of Trento), 38100 Trento, Italy;
| | - Guido Mazzoleni
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Alto Adige Health Authority, Regional Operating Center of Autonomous Province of Bolzano (COR A.P. of Bolzano), 39100 Bolzano, Italy;
| | - Vera Comiati
- Azienda Zero, Epidemiological Department, Regional Operating Center of Veneto (COR Veneto), Veneto Region, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Corrado Negro
- Clinical Unit of Occupational Medicine, Regional Operating Center of Friuli-Venezia Giulia (COR Friuli-Venezia Giulia), University of Trieste-Trieste General Hospitals, 34123 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Antonio Romanelli
- Health Local Unit, Public Health Department, Regional Operating Center of Emilia-Romagna (COR Emilia-Romagna), 42020 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Chellini
- Prevention and Clinical Network, Institute for Cancer Research, Regional Operating Center of Toscana (COR Toscana), 50139 Firenze, Italy; (E.C.); (A.A.)
| | - Alessia Angelini
- Prevention and Clinical Network, Institute for Cancer Research, Regional Operating Center of Toscana (COR Toscana), 50139 Firenze, Italy; (E.C.); (A.A.)
| | - Iolanda Grappasonni
- Regional Operating Center of Marche (COR Marche), School of Medicinal and Health Products Sciences, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy;
| | - Gabriella Madeo
- Regional Operating Center of Umbria (COR Umbria), Servizio Prevenzione, Sanità Veterinaria e Sicurezza Alimentare-Regione Umbria, 06126 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Elisa Romeo
- Regional Operating Center of Lazio (COR Lazio), Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Region, 00143 Roma, Italy;
| | - Annamaria Di Giammarco
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Health Local Unit, Regional Operating Center of Abruzzo (COR Abruzzo), 65121 Pescara, Italy; or
| | - Francesco Carrozza
- Oncology Unit, Cardarelli Hospital, Regional Operating Center of Molise (COR Molise), 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
| | - Italo F. Angelillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Luigi Vanvitelli” University, Regional Operating Center of Campania (COR Campania), 80138 Napoli, Italy; or
| | - Domenica Cavone
- Section of Occupational Medicine ‘‘B.Ramazzini’’, Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Regional Operating Center of Puglia (COR Puglia), University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy; (D.C.); (L.V.)
| | - Luigi Vimercati
- Section of Occupational Medicine ‘‘B.Ramazzini’’, Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, Regional Operating Center of Puglia (COR Puglia), University of Bari, 70125 Bari, Italy; (D.C.); (L.V.)
| | - Michele Labianca
- Epidemiologic Regional Center, Regional Operating Center of Basilicata (COR Basilicata), 85100 Potenza, Italy;
| | - Federico Tallarigo
- Public Health Unit, Regional Operating Center of Calabria (COR Calabria), 88900 Crotone, Italy;
| | - Rosario Tumino
- Cancer Registry ASP Ragusa and Sicilia Regional Epidemiological Observatory, Regional Operating Center of Sicilia (COR Sicilia), 97100 Ragusa, Italy;
| | - Massimo Melis
- Regional Epidemiological Center, Regional Operating Center of Sardegna (COR Sardegna), 09125 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Michela Bonafede
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Istituto Nazionale per l’Assicurazione Contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro, 00143 Roma, Italy; (A.B.); (D.D.M.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Alberto Scarselli
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Istituto Nazionale per l’Assicurazione Contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro, 00143 Roma, Italy; (A.B.); (D.D.M.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Alessandro Marinaccio
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Istituto Nazionale per l’Assicurazione Contro gli Infortuni sul Lavoro, 00143 Roma, Italy; (A.B.); (D.D.M.); (M.B.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0654872621
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Han S, Ko Y, Moon JE, Cho YS. Working hours are closely associated with depressive mood and suicidal ideation in Korean adults: a nationwide cross-sectional study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23102. [PMID: 34845294 PMCID: PMC8630033 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-02574-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Long working hours have been presumed to negatively influence health. However, evidence is lacking regarding any associations of working hours with depressive mood or suicidal ideation. We investigated the relationships of working hours with depressive mood and suicidal ideation in a representative sample of the Korean general population. We analyzed data collected by the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys VI and VII (2013–2018). Depressive mood and suicidal ideation were identified through self-reporting. We divided participants into four groups according to weekly working hours: 30–40, 41–50, 51–60, and > 60 h/week. Sampling weights were applied to obtain estimates for the general Korean population. We analyzed 14,625 participants, of whom 5383 (36.8%), 4656 (31.8%), 2553 (17.5%), and 2033 (13.9%) worked 30–40, 41–50, 51–60, and > 60 h/week, respectively. In these groups, 3.6%, 4.4%, 5.2%, and 6.3% of the participants reported depressive mood, while 1.8%, 1.9%, 2.2%, and 3.6% reported suicidal ideation. In multiple regression analyses, compared with the 30–40 h/week group, the adjusted odds ratios of the 41–50, 51–60, and > 60 h/week groups for depressive mood were 1.35 (1.08–1.69), 1.5 (1.14–1.97), and 1.6 (1.19–2.14). A similar trend was evident for suicidal ideation (odds ratios 1.16 [0.82–1.63], 1.48 [0.99–2.21], and 2.29 [1.53–3.42]). Long working hours are significantly associated with depressive mood and suicidal ideation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangsoo Han
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, 170 Jomaru-ro, Bucheon, 14584, Republic of Korea
| | - Yujin Ko
- Department of Psychiatry, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, 170 Jomaru-ro, Bucheon, 14584, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Eun Moon
- Department of Biostatistics, Clinical Trial Center, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, 170 Jomaru-ro, Bucheon, 14584, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Soon Cho
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, 170 Jomaru-ro, Bucheon, 14584, Republic of Korea.
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Liu H, Li J, Li H, Li H, Mao P, Yuan J. Risk Perception and Coping Behavior of Construction Workers on Occupational Health Risks-A Case Study of Nanjing, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18137040. [PMID: 34280977 PMCID: PMC8297174 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18137040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To reduce harm caused by occupational health risks of construction workers exposed to working environments, especially those for interior decoration, it is crucial for them to actively recognize and prevent these risks. Therefore, how to improve their occupational health risks perception and regulate their coping behaviors should be of great concern. However, most prior studies target construction worker safety, and little research focuses on risk analysis from the psychological level of workers. Hence, construction workers' occupational health risk perception level and coping behavior level in Nanjing and the influencing factors were analyzed through statistical analysis with 341 valid questionnaires. Bootstrapping was applied to test the mediating effects of risk perception on the proposed factors and coping behaviors. This study revealed that construction workers have a high-level of occupational health risk perception, yet low-level coping behavior. Gender, age, education level, and unit qualification cause differences in individual risk perception level. Personal knowledge and group effects significantly affect the level of risk perception, which subsequently affect coping behavior. Education level, monthly income, and personal knowledge influence the coping behavior through risk perception. Recommendations were put forward for risk perception and coping behavior improvement from the perspectives of construction workers themselves, enterprises, and governments. This study sheds new light for research areas of occupational health and risk management and provides beneficial practice for improving construction workers' responses to occupational health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Liu
- Department of Construction Management, College of Civil Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China;
| | - Jie Li
- School of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China;
| | - Hongyang Li
- Business School, Hohai University, Nanjing 211100, China;
- School of Civil Engineering and Transportation, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Building Science, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - He Li
- College of Civil Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China;
| | - Peng Mao
- Department of Construction Management, College of Civil Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-138-0517-1820
| | - Jingfeng Yuan
- Department of Construction and Real Estate, School of Civil Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China;
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Lourenço L, Luís S. Musculoskeletal Disorders in Portuguese Welders: Effects on Bodily Pain and Health-Related Quality of Life. Front Public Health 2021; 9:660451. [PMID: 34095065 PMCID: PMC8173066 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.660451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders in welders may influence their health-related quality of life. However, few studies have addressed this issue and their results were inconclusive. This study investigates whether there are musculoskeletal disorders with a higher incidence in welders compared to non-welders, and whether these disorders lead to an increase in bodily pain which in turn decreases their health-related quality of life. Methods:A priori analyses of statistical power were conducted to determine the sample size needed to find medium to large statistical effects, for a 0.05 alpha, and critical sampling, combined with snowball sampling, was carried out. The study was cross-sectional, and participants were asked to respond to a survey using validated instruments (Nwelders = 40, Nnon-welders = 42). Results: As expected, a higher incidence of symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders in the cervical, dorsal, lumbar, and wrists and hands was found in welders in comparison to non-welders. Furthermore, the presence of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in the lumbar area, was related to an increased bodily pain and decreased health-related quality of life. Conclusion: Welders are exposed to a higher incidence of musculoskeletal disorders that decrease their quality of life. It is essential to increase the awareness of welders, organizations, and regulatory institutions toward this issue in order to motivate the development and implementation of prevention strategies. The need for primary and secondary prevention-type strategies, which have already proven their effectiveness in the context of welding, is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sílvia Luís
- Faculdade de Ciências Humanas e Sociais, Universidade do Algarve, Faro, Portugal
- Centro de Administração e Políticas Públicas, Instituto Superior de Ciências Sociais e Políticas, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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Abbasianjahromi H, Talebian R. Identifying the most important occupational diseases in the construction industry: case study of building industry in Iran. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/15623599.2018.1518657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hamidreza Abbasianjahromi
- Department of Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Faculty, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
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Occupationally Related Nickel Reactions: A Retrospective Analysis of the North American Contact Dermatitis Group Data 1998-2016. Dermatitis 2020; 30:306-313. [PMID: 31524759 DOI: 10.1097/der.0000000000000516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epidemiology of nickel allergy in occupational settings is not well understood. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to characterize occupationally related nickel allergy (ORNA). METHODS This is a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 44,378 patients patch tested by the North American Contact Dermatitis Group from 1998 to 2016. Characteristics of individuals with ORNA were compared with those with non-ORNA (NORNA). RESULTS A total of 7928 (18.2%) individuals were positive to nickel sulfate 2.5%. Two hundred sixty-eight (3.4%) had ORNA. As compared with NORNA, ORNA was statistically associated with the male sex (41.0% vs 12.9%, P < 0.001), a diagnosis of irritant contact dermatitis (22.4% vs 12.0%, P < 0.001), and no history of eczema (81.7% vs 75.7%, P = 0.0217). The most common sites of ORNA dermatitis were hand (39.9%) and arm (18.1%), which were significantly more common than in NORNA (P < 0.0001). Sixteen industry categories and 22 occupation categories were identified for ORNA; the most common industries were durable goods manufacturing (24.6%) and personal services (15.7%), and the most frequent occupations were hairdressers/cosmetologists/barbers (14.3%), machine operators (9.3%), and health care workers (7.1%). Overall 30% of ORNA occupations were in metalworking. Of 215 ORNA sources identified, instruments/phones/other equipment (16.3%), vehicles/machinery (15.8%), and tools (15.3%) were the most common. CONCLUSIONS Occupational nickel allergy is distinct from nonoccupational nickel allergy.
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Hanna E, Gough B, Markham S. Masculinities in the construction industry: A double‐edged sword for health and wellbeing? GENDER WORK AND ORGANIZATION 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/gwao.12429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Esmée Hanna
- School of Allied Health SciencesDe Montfort University United Kingdom
| | - Brendan Gough
- School of Social SciencesLeeds Beckett University United Kingdom
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Vimercati L, Cavone D, Caputi A, Delfino MC, De Maria L, Ferri GM, Serio G. Malignant mesothelioma in construction workers: the Apulia regional mesothelioma register, Southern Italy. BMC Res Notes 2019; 12:636. [PMID: 31564247 PMCID: PMC6767638 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-019-4675-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Asbestos was widely used in construction in both a friable and a compact form until the 1990s, before its use was banned. Today, many of these materials are still in situ and represent a source of risk for construction workers. The objective of the study was to analyse the cases of mesothelioma arising among construction workers registered in the Apulia regional register of mesothelioma. Results For the period 1993–2018, there were 178 male cases, and 10.2% of the cases were present in the regional register. The average age at diagnosis was 64.7 years. The site was pleural in 96.06% of cases, with a diagnosis of certainty in 86.5% of the total cases and 61.8% of cases with epithelial histology. The average latency is 43.9 years. In 75.2% of cases, the exposure began between 1941 and 1970, with an average duration of 24.3 years. The age at the start of exposure in 68.5% of cases is between 8 and 20 years. The ORs were 2.5 (C.I. 95% 1.01–6.17) for the epithelioid histotype and the high duration of exposure. The data underline the need for prevention and information on all activities involving construction workers in which asbestos-containing materials are still used.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Vimercati
- School of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), Ramazzini Occupational Medicine Section, "Policlinico" University Hospital, UOC of Occupational Medicine, University of Bari "A. Moro", Piazza G, Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - D Cavone
- School of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), Ramazzini Occupational Medicine Section, "Policlinico" University Hospital, UOC of Occupational Medicine, University of Bari "A. Moro", Piazza G, Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - A Caputi
- School of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), Ramazzini Occupational Medicine Section, "Policlinico" University Hospital, UOC of Occupational Medicine, University of Bari "A. Moro", Piazza G, Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - M C Delfino
- School of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), Ramazzini Occupational Medicine Section, "Policlinico" University Hospital, UOC of Occupational Medicine, University of Bari "A. Moro", Piazza G, Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - L De Maria
- School of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), Ramazzini Occupational Medicine Section, "Policlinico" University Hospital, UOC of Occupational Medicine, University of Bari "A. Moro", Piazza G, Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - G M Ferri
- School of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), Ramazzini Occupational Medicine Section, "Policlinico" University Hospital, UOC of Occupational Medicine, University of Bari "A. Moro", Piazza G, Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
| | - G Serio
- School of Medicine, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Division of Pathology, University of Bari "A. Moro", Piazza G, Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy
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Mundt KA, Dell LD, Crawford L, Sax SN, Boffetta P. Cancer Risk Associated With Exposure to Bitumen and Bitumen Fumes: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 60:e6-e54. [PMID: 29111990 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether cancer risks are increased among bitumen (asphalt) workers. METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis of cancer risks (lung, upper aerodigestive tract (UADT), esophagus, bladder, kidney, stomach, and skin) and bitumen exposure. Certainty in the epidemiological evidence that bitumen-exposed workers experience increased cancer risks was rated using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation criteria. RESULTS After excluding lower-quality studies, lung cancer risks were not increased among bitumen-exposed workers (meta-relative risk [RR] 0.94, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.20, eight studies). Increased risks of UADT and stomach cancers were observed (meta-RR 1.31, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.67, 10 studies and meta-RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.62, seven studies, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Except for lung cancer, evidence for increased cancer risks among bitumen-exposed workers was judged to be of low certainty, due to inadequate exposure characterization and unmeasured confounders (coal tar exposure, smoking, and alcohol consumption).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Mundt
- Health Sciences, Ramboll Environment and Health, Amherst, Mass (Dr Mundt, Ms Dell, Ms Crawford, Dr Sax), and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY (Dr Boffetta)
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The Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Fruit and Vegetable Markets Workers of Tehran and Factors Affecting Disorders. PAJOUHAN SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.52547/psj.17.4.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
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Moberg LL, Lunde LK, Koch M, Tveter AT, Veiersted KB. Association between V̇O 2max, handgrip strength, and musculoskeletal pain among construction and health care workers. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:272. [PMID: 28320356 PMCID: PMC5359892 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4173-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Construction and health care workers have a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders, and they are assumed to have physically demanding jobs. Profession- and gender-specific associations between individual capacity and musculoskeletal pain have not been sufficiently investigated. The main aim of this study was to examine the association between individual capacity (maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max) and handgrip strength) and musculoskeletal pain among construction and health care workers. Methods This cross-sectional study examined 137 construction and health care workers (58 women and 79 men) with a mean age of 41.8 years (standard deviation 12). Aerobic capacity was indirectly assessed by the Åstrand cycle test, and strength was assessed by a handgrip test. Musculoskeletal pain was described by total pain, divided into neck, shoulder, and low back pain, during the last 12 months, and it was dichotomized in below or above 30 days. Logistic regression was used to analyse the associations between V̇O2max, strength, and musculoskeletal pain in the total study sample and separately for construction and health care workers. Analyses were adjusted for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and selected mechanical and psychosocial factors. Results Every second participant (51.8%) reported pain in either neck, shoulders or low back for more than 30 days during the last 12 months. Among the health care workers, a small but significant association was found between a high V̇O2max, high handgrip strength, and a low level of musculoskeletal pain. No association was found for the construction workers. Conclusions An association between V̇O2max, handgrip strength, and musculoskeletal pain was found for health care workers but not for construction workers. These results indicate that activities promoting individual capacity may reduce musculoskeletal pain for health care workers. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-017-4173-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene Lehmann Moberg
- National Institute of Occupational Health, PO Box 8149 Dep, 0033, Oslo, Norway.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences, PO Box 4, St. Olavsplass, 0130, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars-Kristian Lunde
- National Institute of Occupational Health, PO Box 8149 Dep, 0033, Oslo, Norway
| | - Markus Koch
- National Institute of Occupational Health, PO Box 8149 Dep, 0033, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Therese Tveter
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences, PO Box 4, St. Olavsplass, 0130, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kaj Bo Veiersted
- National Institute of Occupational Health, PO Box 8149 Dep, 0033, Oslo, Norway.
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Lotter JT, Roberts B, Henshaw JL, Pierce JS. Airborne asbestos exposures associated with the installation and removal of roofing products. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2016; 13:D121-D131. [PMID: 27124394 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2016.1183010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Asbestos-containing roofing products were widely used throughout the 20th century, and certain products are still used in limited quantities today. Roofing products are generally considered non-friable and are not expected to release appreciable amounts of airborne asbestos fibers; however, despite the variety of roofing products that have contained asbestos over time, there are no comprehensive analyses of the exposure data associated with these products in the published literature. The objective of this study was to analyze the available data and characterize asbestos exposures associated with the installation, removal, and replacement of built-up roofing (BUR), felts, flashings, shingles, coatings, cements, and mastics under a variety of work practices. Published and unpublished literature that contained the following information was included in the analysis: (1) airborne fiber concentrations determined by PCM; (2) a description of the product(s) used; and (3) a description of the task(s) performed. More than 800 personal air samples from 12 studies performed between 1982 and 2010 were identified which fit the inclusion criteria. The findings indicate that short-term and full-shift exposures from the use of asbestos-containing roofing products were typically well below applicable occupational exposure limits. Additionally, the cumulative exposures associated with roofing work would be well below published chrysotile no-observed-adverse-effect-levels (NOAELs) for asbestos-related diseases.
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Heavy Physical Work: Cardiovascular Load in Male Construction Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:356. [PMID: 27023574 PMCID: PMC4847018 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13040356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Revised: 03/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate cardiovascular loads (CVL) in construction workers during work and leisure by relative heart rate (RHR) over several days. Furthermore, we sought to evaluate the level of CVL in relation to individual factors, work ability, musculoskeletal pain and subjective general health. From a group of 255 construction workers responding to the baseline questionnaire, the CVL during work and leisure time was determined by recording RHR in 42 workers over 3–4 days. Almost 60% of the workday was spent below 20% RHR. The mean RHR during work for all participants was 16% RHR, with large differences between professions. On average, the 42 workers spent 14% of the workday at a RHR above 33%, and four subjects (10%) had a mean RHR above 33% during work. Eight (19%) of the participants had a mean length of their workday exceeding calculated maximal acceptable work time. Seven persons (17%) experienced on average one or more episode(s) of 5 min or more continuously above 33% RHR. The cardiovascular load at work was significantly associated with age and V˙O2max, but not with work ability, musculoskeletal pain or subjective general health.
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Houdmont J, Madgwick P, Randall R. Sun safety in construction: a UK intervention study. Occup Med (Lond) 2015; 66:20-6. [DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqv140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Turner S, Forman SD, McNamee R, Wilkinson SM, Agius R. Investigating work-related neoplasia associated with solar radiation. Occup Med (Lond) 2014; 65:22-8. [PMID: 25421392 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqu156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both solar and non-solar exposures associated with occupation and work tasks have been reported as skin carcinogens. In the UK, there are well-established surveillance schemes providing relevant information, including when exposures took place, occupation, location of work and dates of symptom onset and diagnosis. AIMS To add to the evidence on work-related skin neoplasia, including causal agents, geographical exposure and time lag between exposure and diagnosis. METHODS This study investigated incident case reports of occupational skin disease originating from clinical specialists in dermatology reporting to a UK-wide surveillance scheme (EPIDERM) by analysing case reports of skin neoplasia from 1996 to 2012 in terms of diagnosis, employment, suspected causal agent and symptom onset. RESULTS The suspected causal agent was 'sun/sunlight/ultraviolet light' in 99% of the reported work-related skin neoplasia cases. Most cases reported (91%) were in males, and the majority (62%) were aged over 65 at the time of reporting. More detailed information on exposure was available for 42% of the cases, with the median time from exposure to symptom onset ranging from 44 (melanoma) to 57 (squamous cell carcinoma) years. Irrespective of diagnostic category, the median duration of exposure to 'sun/sunlight/ultraviolet light' appeared longer where exposures occurred in the UK (range 39-51 years) rather than outside the UK (range 2.5-6.5 years). CONCLUSIONS It is important to provide effective information about skin protection to workers exposed to solar radiation, especially to outdoor workers based outside the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Turner
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK,
| | - S D Forman
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - R McNamee
- Centre for Biostatistics, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - S M Wilkinson
- Department of Dermatology, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds LS1 3EX, UK
| | - R Agius
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
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Lunde LK, Koch M, Knardahl S, Wærsted M, Mathiassen SE, Forsman M, Holtermann A, Veiersted KB. Musculoskeletal health and work ability in physically demanding occupations: study protocol for a prospective field study on construction and health care workers. BMC Public Health 2014; 14:1075. [PMID: 25318646 PMCID: PMC4203897 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-1075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal disorders have a profound impact on individual health, sickness absence and early retirement, particularly in physically demanding occupations. Demographics are changing in the developed countries, towards increasing proportions of senior workers. These senior workers may have particular difficulties coping with physically demanding occupations while maintaining good health. Previous studies investigating the relationship between physical work demands and musculoskeletal disorders are mainly based on self-reported exposures and lack a prospective design. The aim of this paper is to describe the background and methods and discuss challenges for a field study examining physical demands in construction and health care work and their prospective associations with musculoskeletal disorders, work ability and sickness absence. METHODS AND DESIGN This protocol describes a prospective cohort study on 1200 construction and health care workers. Participants will answer a baseline questionnaire concerning musculoskeletal complaints, general health, psychosocial and organizational factors at work, work demands, work ability and physical activity during leisure. A shorter questionnaire will be answered every 6th months for a total of two years, together with continuous sickness absence monitoring during this period. Analysis will prospectively consider associations between self-reported physical demands and musculoskeletal disorders, work ability and sickness absence. To obtain objective data on physical exposures, technical measurements will be collected from two subgroups of N = 300 (Group A) and N = 160 (Group B) during work and leisure. Both group A and B will be given a physical health examination, be tested for physical capacity and physical activity will be measured for four days. Additionally, muscle activity, ground reaction force, body positions and physical activity will be examined during one workday for Group B. Analysis of associations between objectively measured exposure data and the outcomes described above will be done separately for these subpopulations. DISCUSSION The field study will at baseline produce objectively measured data on physical demands in the construction and health care occupations. In combination with clinical measurements and questionnaire data during follow-up, this will provide a solid foundation to prospectively investigate relationships between physical demands at work and development of musculoskeletal disorders, work ability and sickness absence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kaj Bo Veiersted
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Gydas vei 8, 0336 Oslo, Norway.
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Quandt SA, Newman JC, Pichardo-Geisinger R, Mora DC, Chen H, Feldman SR, Arcury TA. Self-reported skin symptoms and skin-related quality of life among Latino immigrant poultry processing and other manual workers. Am J Ind Med 2014; 57:605-14. [PMID: 24343776 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Manual labor employment occurs in environments with exposures likely to impact skin-related quality of life (SRQOL). OBJECTIVES The objectives of this paper are to (1) document the dimensions of SRQOL, (2) examine its association with skin symptoms, and (3) identify the predictors of SRQOL in Latino manual workers. METHODS A population-based survey of 733 Latino manual workers obtained Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and skin symptoms in the prior year. RESULTS Two-thirds of workers were employed in production. Skin symptoms in prior year were reported by 23%. Impaired SRQOL was reported by 23%. In multivariate analyses, reduced SRQOL was associated with age, occupation, childhood indigenous language use, and experience of skin symptoms in the prior year. CONCLUSIONS Despite overall high SRQOL exposures in some immigrant occupational groups produce reduce SRQOL. This rural, immigrant population faces significant obstacles to obtaining dermatological care; efforts are needed to improve their SRQOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara A. Quandt
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences; Wake Forest School of Medicine; Winston-Salem North Carolina
| | - Jill C. Newman
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Division of Public Health Sciences; Wake Forest School of Medicine; Winston-Salem North Carolina
| | | | - Dana C. Mora
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Division of Public Health Sciences; Wake Forest School of Medicine; Winston-Salem North Carolina
| | - Haiying Chen
- Department of Biostatistical Sciences, Division of Public Health Sciences; Wake Forest School of Medicine; Winston-Salem North Carolina
| | - Steven R. Feldman
- Department of Dermatology; Wake Forest School of Medicine; Winston-Salem North Carolina
| | - Thomas A. Arcury
- Department of Family and Community Medicine; Wake Forest School of Medicine; Winston-Salem North Carolina
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Carder M, Money A, Turner S, Agius R. Workforce coverage by GB occupational physicians and disease incidence rates. Occup Med (Lond) 2014; 64:271-8. [DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqu042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Hung YP, Teng CJ, Liu CJ, Hu YW, Hung MH, Tzeng CH, Liu CY, Yeh CM, Chen TJ, Chiou TJ. Cancer risk among patients with coal workers' pneumoconiosis in Taiwan: a nationwide population-based study. Int J Cancer 2014; 134:2910-6. [PMID: 24242366 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study is aimed to evaluate the cancer risk among patients with coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP) using a nationwide population-based dataset. Patients without previous cancer who had been diagnosed with CWP and followed-up for more than 1 year between 1997 and 2006 were recruited from the Taiwan National Health Insurance database. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) of cancers in CWP patients were calculated and compared to the cancer incidence in the general population. Risk factors for cancer development were also analyzed. After a median follow-up of 9.68 years, 954 cancers developed among 8,051 recruited CWP patients, with a follow-up of 69,398 person-years. The SIR for all cancers was 1.12 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-1.18]. Males older than 80 years had a SIR of 1.27 (95% CI: 1.06-1.51). The SIRs of esophageal (1.76, 95% CI: 1.24-2.44), gastric (1.42, 95% CI: 1.13-1.76), liver and biliary tract (1.18, 95% CI: 1.01-1.37) and lung and mediastinal (1.45, 95% CI: 1.26-1.66) cancers were significantly higher in the CWP group than in the general population. Multivariate analysis showed that age ≥ 60 years [hazard ratio (HR) 1.70, 95% CI: 1.41-2.05), male gender (HR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.44-2.23) and liver cirrhosis (HR = 3.99, 95% CI: 2.89-5.51) were significant predictors of cancer development in patients with CWP. We concluded that patients with CWP, especially elderly males, were at increased risk of cancer. Age, male gender and liver cirrhosis were independent risk factors for cancer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ping Hung
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Electricians’ chrysotile asbestos exposure from electrical products and risks of mesothelioma and lung cancer. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2014; 68:8-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2013.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Revised: 10/17/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Carino M, Romita P, Foti C. Allergy-related disorders in the construction industry. ISRN PREVENTIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:864679. [PMID: 24971193 PMCID: PMC4045454 DOI: 10.5402/2013/864679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Working conditions in the construction industry have improved in many industrialized countries, but heavy physical work with recurrent exposure to chemical agents, dust, and climatic influences still represents considerable risk for construction workers and may affect their health. The aim of this review is to analyze available data of the literature on allergy-related respiratory and skin disorders with emphasis on a preventive appraisal in order to produce statements and recommendations based on research evidence. The most common agents involved in the construction industry as a cause of occupational asthma (OA) in industrialized countries are isocyanates, wood dust, resins, glues, cobalt, and chromium. Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is an immunologic cell-mediated response to a sensitizing agent and the most common sensitizing agents associated with construction workers are epoxy resins, thiurams and thiazoles, and chromates. Medical surveillance must consider individual risk factors such as differences in individual susceptibility and sensitization to agents at workplace. Once work-related disorder is confirmed, adequate fitness for work should be assessed for the worker impaired by health condition. A reliable diagnosis of an index case is a sentinel event that may reveal risks for workers with similar exposure, leading to a revised risk assessment at the workplace that should reduce the risk and prevent further cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Carino
- Occupational Health Unit, National Health Service, Lungomare Starita 6, 70123 Bari, Italy
| | - Paolo Romita
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Unit of Dermatology, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Caterina Foti
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Unit of Dermatology, University of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
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Wang IJ, Wen HJ, Chiang TL, Lin SJ, Chen PC, Guo YL. Maternal employment and atopic dermatitis in children: a prospective cohort study. Br J Dermatol 2013; 168:794-801. [PMID: 23528059 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.12195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Considering the early onset of atopic dermatitis (AD), which most often arises in the first year of life, risk factors occurring very early in life must be considered. Little is known about the effects of maternal occupational exposure on the development of atopic disorders in children. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate associations between maternal employment and childhood AD. METHODS We used multistage stratified systematic sampling to recruit 24,200 mother-newborn pairs from the Taiwan national birth register. Information on maternal occupation categories, work stress, working time, shift work and potential confounders during pregnancy was gathered by questionnaires after birth. At 3 years of age, information on the development of AD was assessed by home interviews. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the association of maternal employment and AD. RESULTS Overall, 11,962 out of 19,381 mothers (61·7%) worked during pregnancy. The children of mothers who worked during pregnancy had an increased risk of AD compared with those whose mothers did not work [odds ratio (OR) 1·38, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·25-1·53]. The children of mothers with a professional or technical occupation had a higher risk of AD (OR 1·64, 95% CI 1·44-1·87). The risk of AD was found to increase with maternal work stress during pregnancy in a dose-response manner (P(trend)<0·01). The mothers of children with AD had a longer working time than those without AD (P<0·0001). However, no significant association between AD and maternal shift work was found. CONCLUSIONS Working in professional or technical occupations increased the risk of childhood AD in addition to work stress during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- I J Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Hospital, Department of Health, Taipei, Taiwan
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Kosny A, Lifshen M, Pugliese D, Majesky G, Kramer D, Steenstra I, Soklaridis S, Carrasco C. Buddies in bad times? the role of co-workers after a work-related injury. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL REHABILITATION 2013; 23:438-49. [PMID: 23271499 DOI: 10.1007/s10926-012-9411-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Co-workers can play an important role after a work-related injury. They can provide details about the circumstances of an accident, offer emotional support to the injured worker and help with job tasks upon a co-worker's return to work (RTW). Working with an injured co-worker, however, can also strain work relationships and increase workload. The purpose of this study was to determine the role that co-workers play after a work-related injury and during the RTW process in the unionized, electrical construction sector. METHODS We conducted two focus groups with injured electricians and union representatives. We also interviewed co-workers who had worked with someone who had been injured in the course of employment. We examined the role that co-workers can play after a work-related injury and some of the factors facilitating and hindering co-worker support. RESULTS The structure of work in the electrical sector-a focus on cost-cutting and competition, job insecurity, perceptions of "different camps" among co-workers, little modified work and poor formal communication-can impede co-worker support and contribute to making injured workers' experiences difficult. Management can play an important role in setting an example for how injured workers are regarded and treated. CONCLUSIONS Future research should explore how workers can better be supported after a work-related injury and during the RTW process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Kosny
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Zorba E, Karpouzis A, Zorbas A, Bazas T, Zorbas S, Alexopoulos E, Zorbas I, Kouskoukis K, Konstandinidis T. Occupational dermatoses by type of work in Greece. Saf Health Work 2013; 4:142-8. [PMID: 24106644 PMCID: PMC3791082 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2013.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To elucidate the relationship between seven occupational dermatoses (ODs) and 20 types of work in Greece. Methods This was a prevalence epidemiologic study of certain ODs among 4,000 workers employed in 20 types of enterprise, in 104 companies, in 2006–2012, using data from company medical records, questionnaires, occupational medical, and special examinations. The χ2 test was applied to reveal statistically significant relationships between types of enterprises and occurrence of ODs. Results A high percentage (39.9%) of employees included in the study population suffered from ODs. The highest prevalence rates were noted among hairdressers (of contact dermatitis: 30%), cooks (of contact dermatitis: 29.5%), bitumen workers (of acne: 23.5%), car industry workers (of mechanical injury: 15%), construction workers (of contact urticaria: 29.5%), industrial cleaning workers (of chemical burns: 13%), and farmers (of malignant tumors: 5.5%). We observed several statistical significant correlations between ODs (acute and chronic contact dermatitis, urticaria, mechanical injury, acne, burns, skin cancer) and certain types of enterprises. There was no statistically significant correlation between gender and prevalence of ODs, except for dermatoses caused by mechanical injuries afflicting mainly men [χ2 (1) = 13.40, p < 0.001] and for chronic contact dermatitis [χ2 (1) = 5.53, p = 0.019] afflicting mainly women. Conclusion Prevalence of ODs is high in Greece, contrary to all official reports by the Greek National Institute of Health. There is a need to introduce a nationwide voluntary surveillance system for reporting ODs and to enhance skin protection measures at work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Zorba
- Program of Postgraduate Studies, Health and Safety in Workplaces, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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Sherriff NS, Coleman L. Understanding the needs of smokers who work as routine and manual workers on building sites: results from a qualitative study on workplace smoking cessation. Public Health 2012. [PMID: 23200436 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2012.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The number of adults who smoke is decreasing, yet this decreasing trend is not spread evenly across the population, with the greatest number of smokers in the routine/manual worker (R/M) population. This study aimed to gain insight into the beliefs, behaviours and cessation needs of R/M smokers working on construction sites to inform the potential development of a work-based smoking cessation service. STUDY DESIGN A qualitative study in a work-based setting in the UK. METHODS Semi-structured focus group discussions and individual interviews (n = 23) with R/M employees on two development sites in London and seven employers. Data were analysed using a framework approach. RESULTS Key motivations for smoking continuance within this group were evident: physical effects, habit and routine, opportunity and social factors. Employees were knowledgeable about the negative health impacts of smoking, but showed limited awareness of smoking cessation services and aids available. Intentions to give up smoking were common, with favourable attitudes towards the development of a work-based smoking cessation service. CONCLUSION The milieu of construction sites means that tailored approaches to work-based smoking cessation programmes are needed to maximize potential benefits for both employees and employers. Reconsideration of current Smokefree legislation as it applies to the construction industry is also required.
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Affiliation(s)
- N S Sherriff
- Centre for Health Research, University of Brighton, Mayfield House, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9PH, UK.
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Surveillance épidémiologique et vigilance en milieu professionnel : place du réseau européen MODERNET. ARCH MAL PROF ENVIRO 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.admp.2012.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Hobson J. In this issue of Occupational Medicine. Occup Med (Lond) 2012; 62:81. [PMID: 22355084 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqs009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Hobson J. In this issue of Occupational Medicine. Occup Med (Lond) 2011; 61:379. [PMID: 21921120 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqr142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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