Problemy sotsial'noi gigieny, zdravookhraneniia i istorii meditsinyV V Tonkonog
The article summarizes results of analysis of the normative and institutional architecture of counteracting gender-conditioned violence in maritime industry. It is demonstrated that the Convention of International Labor Organization №190 and the Recommendation №206 shape ecosystemic standard of protection standard that extends to ship as workplace and covers wide range of situations and employment statuses. The mutual attachment with regimen of the International Maritime Organization and systems of security management enhances integration of psycho-social risks into corporate compliance and risk management. At the industry level, the principles of the International Chamber of Shipping (2024) codify zero-tolerance approach, mandatory training, secure communication channels and access to medical and psychological support. The support ecosystem (trade unions, charitable foundations and professional networks) decreases barriers of appealability and increases trust to procedures. The empirical data confirms high prevalence of undesirable behavior on ships with mixed-gender crew and demonstrates efficiency of combination of normative, organizational, technological and educational interventions. The conclusion is made that concordance with international standards, maturity of corporate systems and access to specialized care shift prevention from area of declarations to sustainable business practice, decreasing latency of violations, strengthening reliability of operations and improving staff retention.
BACKGROUND: Ergonomics is fundamental to improving safety and efficiency in offices. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the effect of a health education intervention on office workers' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding ergonomics and to determine their predictors. METHODS: For this intervention study, 230 office workers were split into two equal groups. A validated KAP office ergonomics questionnaire and a health education intervention were given to the intervention group, while the control group only received the questionnaire. Three months later, both groups received a post-test questionnaire. RESULTS: The post-test KAP scores of the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the control group (37.2 versus 30.9, 23.4 versus 28.3, and 17.0 versus 10.3, respectively, P < 0.05). Workers' office ergonomics knowledge, attitude, and practice scores significantly improved following the health education intervention (P < 0.05). Adequate knowledge and a positive attitude were significantly predicted by being younger (adjusted OR: 7.8 and 10.7), having a high level of education (adjusted OR: 8.9 and 2.5), using a computer (adjusted OR: 7.0 and 5.0), working long hours on a computer (adjusted OR: 3.1 and 3.0), and having a short job duration (adjusted OR: 5.2 and 12.3) within the intervention group. There was a significant positive correlation between the knowledge and practice scores (r = 0.469, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The outcomes of the study demonstrated that office workers who received health education had significantly enhanced their KAP after a three-month follow-up. This highlights the importance of office workers' ergonomics education to ensure workplace safety and improve their well-being and productivity. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was retrospectively registered at the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR) (ID: PACTR202604893125732) on 29 April 2026.
International archives of occupational and environmental healthHafiz Rahim, Rahmat Dapari, Mohd Ramadan Ab Hamid, Qamarul Nazrin Harun, Nazri Che Dom
PURPOSE: Safety culture is widely recognised as a critical determinant of occupational safety performance; however, its multidimensional structure remains insufficiently validated as an integrated higher-order construct. This study aimed to (i) validate a multidimensional second-order safety culture model comprising psychological, behavioural, and situational dimensions; (ii) examine the structural relationships among these dimensions and their influence on safety performance; and (iii) identify demographic and organisational predictors associated with safety culture outcomes across Malaysian industries. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 40 safety and health subject matter experts representing the oil and gas, manufacturing, service, education, and regulatory sectors in Malaysia. Data were collected using a previously validated Safety Culture Questionnaire. The instrument demonstrated good internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha values ranging from 0.78 to 0.90. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was applied to assess the hierarchical relationships among psychological, behavioural, and situational safety dimensions, while random-effects regression analysis was used to identify significant predictors of safety outcomes. RESULTS: The measurement model demonstrated satisfactory reliability and convergent validity, with Composite Reliability (CR) values ranging from 0.82 to 0.86 and Average Variance Extracted (AVE) values ranging from 0.55 to 0.60. Situational Safety exhibited the strongest construct performance (CR = 0.86; AVE = 0.60), followed by Psychological Safety (CR = 0.84; AVE = 0.58) and Behavioural Safety (CR = 0.82; AVE = 0.55). Safety rule compliance showed the highest standardised loading (λ = 0.736), while safety attitude (λ = 0.502) and safety training (λ = 0.391) emerged as the strongest indicators of psychological and behavioural safety, respectively. Random-effects regression analysis revealed that Master's degree holders (β = 0.10, p = 0.01), PhD holders (β = 0.12, p = 0.02), Safety and Health Practitioners (β = 0.10, p = 0.01), and individuals actively involved in occupational safety and health activities (β = 0.10, p = 0.01) reported significantly higher safety outcomes. Behavioural and situational dimensions demonstrated stronger contributions to safety performance than psychological factors. CONCLUSION: This study empirically validates a hierarchical multidimensional safety culture model comprising psychological, behavioural, and situational dimensions. The findings demonstrate that behavioural practices and situational workplace conditions are the primary drivers of safety performance, while psychological factors provide an important attitudinal foundation. The validated model offers a robust evidence base for developing targeted, multi-level interventions to strengthen safety culture and improve occupational safety performance across high-risk industries.
International archives of occupational and environmental healthSong Toan Pham Phu, Cuong Le Dinh, Huyen Truong Ngoc
PURPOSE: Urban waste transfer stations serve as critical infrastructure within municipal solid waste management systems, yet they introduce complex, interconnected health, safety, and environmental (HSE) risks. METHOD: This study proposes a novel, integrated framework combining Environmental Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (EFMEA), the Fine-Kinney method, and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to systematically identify, prioritize, and validate HSE risks. The framework was demonstrated through a case study of two municipal waste transfer stations in Da Nang, Vietnam, utilizing a comprehensive census survey of 110 personnel and secondary operational data. RESULTS: The risk analysis and structural modeling yielded three distinct sets of findings. First, regarding environmental risks (EFMEA), hazards such as hazardous gas emissions and biological contamination were predominantly categorized as "medium," signaling a critical need for enhanced containment control. Second, regarding occupational safety risks (Fine-Kinney), technical and mechanical hazards were generally maintained at "low" levels, indicating the effective impact of universal safety training at the stations. Third, PLS-SEM modeling analysis demonstrated that External Factors (β = 0.372, t-value = 4.672), Law and Regulation (β = 0.303, t-value = 3.145), and the Working Environment (β = 0.202, t-value = 2.332) exert significant associations with the adherence to and execution of HSE standards. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that enhancing HSE performance in countries with similar developing contexts necessitates robust regulatory enforcement and external stakeholder pressure alongside improvements in physical working conditions. This research provides a scientific foundation for decision-makers to develop evidence-based roadmaps for sustainable risk management in urban waste infrastructure with comparable operational and regulatory profiles.
PloS oneInnocent Ayesiga, David Tenywa, Moses Ntaro
INTRODUCTION: Occupational hazards (OH) in healthcare facilities are common, with 1 in 10 healthcare workers experiencing a hazard each year. These hazards can be either biological, chemical, ergonomic, or radiation. Despite their occurrence, reporting of these hazards remains limited, with very little information available, especially from healthcare facilities. Also, there is limited information on incident reporting systems (IRSs), which can help capture, track, and monitor the occurrence of these hazards within health facilities. The absence of these systems results in inaccurate and incomplete reporting and fragmented data, hindering the implementation of effective occupational safety measures in hospitals. This review will explore the extent and nature of information available on occupational hazard incident reporting systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS: The review will be conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology of scoping reviews and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A robust search strategy shall be conducted in different scientific databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, guided by the Population, Concept, and Context framework. Studies describing incident reporting systems shall be considered in this review. The search results will be collated and uploaded to Covidence, where duplicates will be removed and titles and abstracts screened. Search and screening of studies have not yet commenced. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Occupational health and safety are vital to the functioning of healthcare facilities because they promote well-being and protect both patients and healthcare workers. It is vital to ensure accurate and robust IRS are in place, especially given the occurrence of occupational hazards across hospital wards. These IRS will help with surveillance and the identification of epidemiological trends in OH among health workers. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: The protocol has not been registered.
Stress and health : journal of the International Society for the Investigation of StressJafar Akbari, Paula Brough, Xi Wen Carys Chan
Occupational health and safety (OHS) remains a critical concern, yet the psychosocial mechanisms linking job demands and leadership to safety behaviors and motivation remain underexplored within the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) framework. This three-wave longitudinal study extended the JD-R-OHS model to examine Psychosocial Safety Climate (PSC) and health-related work functioning, operationalized as presenteeism using the Stanford Presenteeism Scale (SPS-6), in relation to safety outcomes. Structural equation modeling distinguished pathways linking safety-specific leadership and job-family demands with safety compliance, participation, and motivation. Findings provided mixed support for the proposed model. PSC was the most consistently supported organisational mechanism, particularly linking safety-specific leadership with safety participation and motivation. In contrast, pathways involving perceived job and family demands and health-related work functioning received limited support. These findings suggest that organisational climate resources may be more influential than individual health-related work functioning in explaining safety outcomes and highlight PSC as a robust mechanism warranting investigation.
Diving and hyperbaric medicineHolly Blake, Basharat Hussain, Lianne Hufton, Elisha Cousins, Graham Johnson, Andrew Tabner
INTRODUCTION: Little is known about the occupational health needs of commercial divers, particularly regarding psychological wellbeing, trauma exposure, organisational support, and the adequacy of training for high‑risk environments. This study qualitatively explored pathways into commercial diving, experiences of psychological strain and trauma, perceptions of support, and the relevance of training from the perspectives of divers, supervisors, and industry representatives. METHODS: This qualitative study used semi‑structured interviews and focus groups with purposively sampled participants (n = 20 men). Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Three themes were identified: (1) pathways into a high‑risk occupation shaped by financial incentives, risk acceptance, and informal entry routes; (2) psychological strain characterised by reported exposure to traumatic events, normalisation of distress, stigma surrounding mental health disclosure, and predominantly reactive organisational support; and (3) perceived inadequacies in training, described as generic, low‑fidelity, and insufficiently aligned with the operational realities of offshore and saturation diving, alongside limited opportunities to practise key skills, contributing to feelings of unpreparedness during emergencies. CONCLUSIONS: Participants described commercial diving as associated with substantial and often unaddressed psychological burden, compounded by cultural stigma, structural barriers to help‑seeking, and predominantly reactive support systems. Training provision was perceived as outdated and insufficiently aligned with operational demands, with limited organisational investment in development. Findings suggest that industry‑wide efforts may be needed to implement proactive mental‑health strategies and improve the alignment of training with operational realities.
BMJ openEva E M van Doeveren, Allard W de Smalen, Roosmarijn M C Schelvis, Aartjan T F Beekman, Johannes R Anema, Trees T Juurlink
INTRODUCTION: Mental health problems, including stress-related complaints, are an increasing concern in today's workforce. Therefore, long-term sickness absence becomes a risk, yet effective return to work (RTW) interventions for employees suffering from mental health problems are scarce and they lack tailoring. The aim of this study is to describe the design of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the effectiveness of the tailored Vital@Work reintegration programme for sick-listed workers with stress-related complaints. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: An RCT involving 208 sick-listed workers with stress-related complaints will be conducted with measurements taking place at baseline and after 3, 6 and 12 months. Stress-related complaints will be assessed with a distress screener. All participants will receive care as usual. The intervention group will receive a tailored eHealth programme, followed by the participatory approach if full RTW has not been achieved after 6 weeks in the study. Participants assigned to the control group will be provided with general information via the eHealth programme. The primary outcome is sustainable RTW, defined as lasting at least 28 consecutive days without any relapse. Secondary outcomes are stress-related complaints, psychosocial job characteristics and behaviour change. A mixed-methods approach will be used for the process evaluation. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study has been approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Amsterdam UMC (approval number: 2024.0021). Results are expected to be published in peer-reviewed journals. In addition, interim and final results will be shared and discussed with the participating organisations involved in this study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT06543732.
BMC health services researchDominik Swadźba, Sebastian Makuch, Siddarth Agrawal
BACKGROUND: Workplace health programmes increasingly include blood-based laboratory screening, promoted to lower costs and improve productivity, yet the economic case is contested and previous reviews have not isolated programmes with a blood-based screening component. We systematically reviewed the economic and productivity outcomes of such programmes. METHODS: Following PRISMA 2020 and a prospectively registered protocol, we searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EconLit, the Cochrane Library, and grey literature (WHO, ILO) from January 2000 to May 2026. Eligible studies evaluated workplace programmes incorporating blood-based laboratory or biomarker screening in working adults and reported at least one economic or productivity outcome. Selection, extraction, and quality appraisal, using design-appropriate tools (RoB 2, Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, NIH before-after tool, CHEC list), were performed in duplicate with adjudication. Because outcome metrics were too heterogeneous to pool, findings were synthesised narratively by direction of effect across six domains, with sensitivity and subgroup analyses. RESULTS: Fifty-six studies were included, mostly US observational or single-arm designs; six were randomised trials, none at low risk of bias. Healthcare-cost outcomes (29 studies) were predominantly favourable (21 studies) and remained so among higher-quality studies. Return on investment (20 studies) was uniformly favourable, with no attenuation in the direction of effect across study quality. Absenteeism (23 studies) was inconsistent, and presenteeism (7) and staff turnover (1) were rarely measured, reflecting reliance on administrative rather than validated measures. Patterns were robust in sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS: Workplace programmes incorporating blood-based screening were associated with favourable healthcare-cost and return-on-investment results in most studies, but the return-on-investment signal showed no attenuation with study quality and is hard to separate from reporting and selection bias; absenteeism was inconsistent and productivity rarely assessed. Favourable economics appeared almost exclusively where screening was coupled to a structured, coordinator- or physician-led pathway, not offered alone-a contrast to read cautiously, since screening-only programmes were seldom evaluated economically. The evidence does not support blood-based screening as a stand-alone cost-saving measure and suggests, as a hypothesis, that its value lies less in testing than in support that turns detection into sustained behaviour or treatment change. Rigorous, controlled, non-US studies with validated productivity measures are needed. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: Open Science Framework, https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/M4W8C CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.
Molecular medicine reportsYuanshe Huang, Zhenjun Xi, Jingxin Mao, Xiaobing Li
Benzene is a toxic aromatic hydrocarbon widely used in industrial production, posing a notable occupational health threat. Classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, chronic benzene exposure primarily targets the hematopoietic system, causing leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, aplastic anemia and acute myeloid leukemia. Furthermore, emerging evidence highlights its multi‑systemic toxicity, inducing oxidative stress, DNA damage and cellular dysfunction, across the nervous, respiratory, dermatological, reproductive, immune and cardiovascular systems. The present review systematically summarizes recent advances in these occupational hazards and the evolving landscape of benzene biomonitoring. Traditional exposure biomarkers, such as urinary phenol and hydroquinone, are increasingly being supplemented by highly specific metabolites, notably S‑phenylmercapturic acid, for low‑dose exposure assessments. Effect biomarkers capture early biological damage through hematological indices and molecular alterations, while susceptibility biomarkers, such as cytochrome P450 2E1, glutathione S‑transferase mu 1 and DNA repair gene polymorphisms, identify genetically vulnerable populations. Additionally, emerging non‑invasive tools, particularly exhaled breath metabolomics, show promise in correlating specific metabolites with hematopoietic function. By integrating mechanistic insights into multi‑organ toxicity with advanced multi‑omics profiling, the present review highlights a critical paradigm shift from reactive traditional monitoring to artificial intelligence‑driven, multi-biomarker integration frameworks. Ultimately, it provides a forward-looking roadmap for individualized risk stratification and precision occupational health surveillance in the low‑dose exposure era.
Frontiers in public healthRaúl Guzmán, Yuri Félix Chávez-Luque, Guillermo Sebastián Medina, Celin Daniel Valdiviezo
Worker safety is fundamental in any organization, so we propose a mindfulness-based program enhanced by virtual reality (VR) to improve attitudes toward preventing occupational risks and accidents and reduce work-related stress in an industrial company. The program was implemented as a complement to Behavior-Based Safety (BBS) of nine 30-min sessions delivered in person and continuously by two researchers; VR was used in three of the nine sessions. Each session was divided into motivation, knowledge development, transfer, evaluation, and closure sections. The control group worked only with BBS, a standard methodology designed to reduce workplace accidents and injuries through systematic observation and intervention in worker behavior. A randomized block design (RBD) was used with a sample of 34 workers from high-risk industrial areas, who were matched by their sociodemographic characteristics and randomly assigned to one of the two groups. An attitude scale regarding occupational risk prevention (accidents) and a work-related stress scale were used for the assessment. The results showed a significant improvement in attitudes toward occupational risk prevention (p < 0.005) and a reduction in work-related stress, although this finding was not statistically significant according to MANOVA and Bonferroni correction. In conclusion, this study shows that mindfulness complements and significantly improves attitudes toward occupational risk prevention.
Frontiers in public healthBiandi Li, Jiamin Jiang, Qiang Hu, Yuyang Wang, Xinqi Cai, Defu Ma
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate physical activity behavior among occupational populations in China's economically developed regions, identifies associated factorsinfluencing factors, and explores its cross-sectional associations with multiple health indicatorshealth effects. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 6,836 employees from 64 enterprises in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong using 2024 Asia Best Workplace Selection Project data. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, rank sum test and two-level logistic regression were applied to analyze activity status, influencing factors and health effects. RESULTS: Only 37.9% of participants met sufficient activity standards. Individual factors (male gender, age ≥40 years, unmarried status, higher education, no overtime, no perceived exercise barriers) and enterprise factors (equipped fitness facilities, provided health checkups) were significantly associated with higher odds ofwere protective factors for sufficient exercise (p < 0.05). Insufficient activity was associated with higher prevalence of WMSDs, depression, and anxiety symptoms (p < 0.05), and also with a significantly different overall BMI distribution, though the combined overweight/obesity prevalence did not differ between groups. Insufficient activity was associated with higher prevalence of overweight/obesity, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), depression and anxiety (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Physical activity levels of occupational populations in China's economically developed regions are relatively low, affected by individual and enterprise factors. Sufficient physical activity was associated with a lower prevalence of multiple physical and depressive and anxiety symptomsmental health problems, providing empirical support for formulating targeted occupational health promotion strategies.
International journal of public healthWei Li, Zhengyan Ge, Hui Wang, Mingzi Yuan, Zhican Yin
OBJECTIVES: This systematic review examines how artificial intelligence (AI) mitigates occupational and environmental health risks in waste management, a sector where workers and communities face infectious, toxic, and physical hazards. METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched the SCOPUS database and reviewed 81 peer-reviewed articles. The analysis focused on the types of AI technologies applied, their deployment across waste management stages, and the specific health risks they address. RESULTS: The analysis identifies five types of health risks targeted by AI applications. AI is deployed across five waste management stages and four technical paradigms (supervised, unsupervised, reinforcement, and deep learning). AI alleviates hazards via three primary pathways: automated risk-source isolation, robotic substitution for high-risk tasks, and macro-level exposure monitoring. CONCLUSION: Current public health research has largely neglected health risk reduction gains from waste management technological innovation. Institutional innovations that can facilitate responsible AI deployment are discussed. This interdisciplinary perspective underscores the necessity of cross-sector collaboration to tackle public health issues.
Frontiers in public healthTânia T Silva, Eduarda Dias, Inês Lapa, D-Filipa Ferreira, Paulo C A Filho, Ana Colim, Pedro Arezes, Paulo Carvalho, Matilde A Rodrigues
INTRODUCTION: Anthropometric and nutritional status data are essential for optimizing working conditions, workstation design, and occupational health strategies, contributing to the prevention of work-related disorders and accidents. The retail sector is particularly relevant due to its diverse workforce and frequent exposure to prolonged standing, manual handling, and high physical demands. METHODS: This cross-sectional study aimed to develop an anthropometric database and assess the nutritional status of workers from a Portuguese food retail company, providing evidence to support ergonomic workstation and task redesign, as well as initiatives to promote worker health. Data were collected from 155 supermarket workers in Northern Portugal (117 women and 38 men, aged 18-64 years). A total of 28 anthropometric measurements and 7 body composition parameters were assessed. RESULTS: Men generally presented larger mean dimensions than women, except for hip breadth and seated elbow height. Men also showed a higher prevalence of overweight, while obesity was more frequent among women. DISCUSSION: The findings highlight a high prevalence of excess weight and low physical activity levels, reinforcing the need to update anthropometric data and integrate inclusive ergonomic design and workplace wellness programs.
Frontiers in public healthÅsa Stöllman, Fredrik Molin, Kristina Eliasson
INTRODUCTION: "High-demand sectors" are characterized by substantial physical, psychological, and emotional demands, alongside persistent recruitment and retention challenges. Despite growing interest in shaping healthy organizations, research has largely focused on workplace- or individual-level determinants. The aim of this study was to deepen the understanding of organizational-level health-promoting factors by exploring experienced managers' perspectives and visions regarding the promotion of a healthy work environment in high-demand sectors. METHODS: Using an exploratory qualitative design, semi-structured digital interviews were conducted with 16 managers from 15 organizations in the transport, health and social care, construction, and retail trade sectors. The data were analyzed using an inductive-to-abductive thematic analysis informed by relevant theory on organizational health-promoting factors. RESULTS: The findings indicated that healthy organizations are understood not as products of isolated wellbeing initiatives, but as organizations characterized by an integrated culture of care embedded in structures, routines, and leadership practices. Four interrelated themes were identified: integrated occupational health and safety management system, strategic efforts to promote organizational attractiveness across the employee lifespan, present and supportive leadership focused on employee wellbeing, and effective communication structures. Managers emphasized systematic and participatory occupational health and safety practices, structured onboarding, competence development, flexible accommodation across the employment life course, visible and relationally close leadership, and open, psychologically safe communication as central organizational resources for balancing high demands and sustaining both employee wellbeing and organizational functioning. DISCUSSION: This study extends prior research on healthy organizations by highlighting the importance of a lifespan-oriented workforce strategy and by framing an organization-wide culture of care as a unifying condition for resilience, retention, safety, and long-term work ability in high-demand sectors.
JMIR research protocolsIhana Thais Guerra de Oliveira Gondim, Ana Karina Pessoa da Silva Cabral, Maria das Graças Wanderley de Sales Coriolano, Alexandra Lecours
BACKGROUND: Population aging is rapidly reshaping the Brazilian labor force, increasing the participation of adults aged 50 years and older and intensifying the need for safe, inclusive, and age‑friendly workplaces. Preventive behaviors at work play a vital role in protecting workers' physical, social, and psychological health; however, no validated Brazilian Portuguese instrument is currently available to measure the frequency of these behaviors. The Preventive Behaviors at Work Frequency Scale (Échelle de Fréquence des Comportements Préventifs au Travail), developed in Canada, evaluates how often workers adopt 6 key preventive behaviors grounded in the model of preventive behaviors at work. A culturally adapted and psychometrically validated version is therefore needed to support occupational health research, surveillance, and evidence-based interventions for Brazilian older workers. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to describe the protocol for the cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Preventive Behaviors at Work Frequency Scale for workers aged 50 years and older. METHODS: This methodological study will be conducted based on international guidelines for cross-cultural adaptation and questionnaire validation and will be completed in six steps: (1) forward translation, (2) forward translation synthesis, (3) back translation, (4) harmonization and expert appraisal of relevance, (5) pretesting with the target population, and (6) field-testing and psychometric evaluation. Data collection will be conducted over a 12-month period among Brazilian workers aged 50 years and older. RESULTS: A Mitacs grant was obtained for 2025 to 2026. Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and pretesting involving 30 participants were completed between February 2026 and August 2026. Field-testing and psychometric evaluation are scheduled to begin in September 2026, with data collection and analysis expected to be completed by the end of February 2027. Study findings are anticipated to be published in 2027. CONCLUSIONS: This study will provide the first Brazilian Portuguese version of the Preventive Behaviors at Work Frequency Scale for workers aged 50 years and older. The adapted instrument is expected to support research and evidence-based workplace interventions aimed at promoting healthy and sustainable aging at work. Furthermore, the methodological framework described in this protocol may guide future cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation studies. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): DERR1-10.2196/95636.
Frontiers in public healthMmapitsi Louisa Mokwele, Annelize Van Niekerk
Organisational change has intensified in recent years in response to shifting workplace expectations, rapid technological developments, the effects of COVID-19, and evolving work patterns. While such transformation is often necessary for organisational sustainability, it can increase uncertainty, alter job demands, and place emotional pressure on employees. Drawing on Conservation of Resources theory, this article suggests that employees may view change as a threat to valued personal and work resources, heightening stress responses. The Job Demands-Resources model further illustrates how increased demands such as digital overload and rising performance pressures can affect wellbeing unless balanced with appropriate resources, including autonomy, clarity, and supportive work relationships. A range of organisational factors can shape how employees experience these changes. Leadership behaviours, communication practises, opportunities for involvement, and levels of engagement all influence how employees interpret and respond to shifting demands. These factors interact with job demands and resources by shaping perceptions of fairness, predictability, psychological safety, and support during periods of transition. Rather than functioning independently, these elements combine to influence employee wellbeing and adjustment. The article presents a framework in which the impact of organisational change on wellbeing is understood through the interplay between demands, available resources, and the broader relational and communicative environment. It highlights the enduring effects of recent disruptions, which have increased the need to understand how employees adapt to continuous change. The paper concludes by identifying future research directions aimed at improving organisational practises that support employee wellbeing throughout ongoing transformation.
International journal of occupational medicine and environmental healthKaja Staszewska, Dorota Merecz-Kot
Person-organization fit (P-O fit) refers to how well employees feel they match their organization in terms of values, goals, needs, and personal characteristics. Although previous research has primarily focused on the relationship between P-O fit and performance measures, increasing attention has recently been devoted to its potential role in employee mental health. The aim of this review was to summarize the current evidence regarding the relationship between P-O fit and mental health outcomes in occupational settings. The review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 (PRISMA 2020) guidelines. Electronic searches were performed in the PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCO databases for studies published in 2016-2026. Studies were included if they examined the relationship between P-O fit and mental health outcomes among working populations. After the screening and eligibility assessment process, 16 empirical studies were included in the review. The reviewed studies included predominantly cross-sectional designs, although 2 longitudinal studies were also identified. Most studies showed that higher levels of P-O fit were associated with lower levels of stress, burnout, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and better well-being outcomes. Similar associations were reported in different occupational groups and countries. In conclusion, the findings suggest that congruence between employees and their organizational environments may play an important role in employee mental health. However, this review has several limitations, including the predominance of cross-sectional studies. Further longitudinal research is needed to clarify the relationship between P-O fit and employee mental health. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2026;39(4):363-77.
International archives of occupational and environmental healthMarco Tarabini, Genevieve Williams, Suzanne Smith, Setsuo Maeda, Massimo Bovenzi
PURPOSE: This work evaluates the scientific foundation and practical applicability of the Health Guidance Caution Zone (HGCZ) defined in the ISO 2631-1 standard for assessing health risks from whole-body vibration. The primary objective is to investigate the HGCZ's derivation process, its underlying data sources, and its effectiveness in predicting adverse health outcomes across various occupational environments. METHODS: This study examines the relationship between vibration metrics-such as frequency-weighted acceleration and vibration dose value-and reported musculoskeletal, neurological, and vascular outcomes, while also considering the role of individual confounding factors, including posture, age, and body mass index, in shaping exposure-response relationships. RESULTS: HGCZ boundaries were identified as pragmatic expert compromises rather than being derived from quantitative dose-response relationships. While the zone is a reasonable predictor for low back pain in seated operators, it lacks empirical support for neck, shoulder, or vascular outcomes. Analysis of aviation data showed that most flight scenarios reached caution thresholds significantly faster than traditional land-based driving, while individual factors such as posture and body mass index were found to modify actual health outcomes. CONCLUSION: We suggest the evolution of the HGCZ toward a probabilistic framework, where fixed thresholds are complemented by models linking exposure magnitude and duration to the likelihood of specific health outcomes (not only low back pain). Supported by biomechanical modelling and segment-specific frequency weightings, this approach would enable a more accurate assessment of WBV risk, extending rather than replacing the current framework.
Frontiers in public healthAndong Hu, Xiaojuan Zhong, Yi Rong, Yuanliang Wu, Cheng Liu, He Cao
OBJECTIVE: To analyze the exposure of workers to carbon fiber dust during the manufacturing process of carbon fiber products, and to assess the occupational health risk level and related risk factors among the exposed population. METHODS: A total of 955 workers engaged in carbon fiber product molding positions from 30 carbon fiber manufacturing enterprises in Shenzhen were selected. All workers underwent testing for carbon fiber dust exposure. The exposure status of hazardous factors among workers exposed to carbon fiber dust was analyzed, and questionnaire surveys and scale assessments were conducted. The quantitative assessment results of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) occupational health risk assessment model for workers exposed to carbon fiber dust were analyzed, and groups were divided according to their ICMM occupational health risk levels. Variables were screened via LASSO regression, followed by the construction of a binary Logistic regression model to analyze risk factors associated with occupational health risks among workers exposed to carbon fiber dust. RESULTS: Carbon fiber dust exposure was identified in 8.38% of employees, and the number of exposed employees varied significantly across different posts (P < 0.05). Per the ICMM occupational health risk assessment for workstations with carbon fiber dust-exposed employees, there were 3 cases of tolerable occupational health risk, 36 potential risk cases, 37 high-risk cases, 2 very high-risk cases, and 2 intolerable risk cases. A total of 5 variables were screened out by LASSO regression, regression analysis revealed that risk factors contributing to elevated occupational health risks among carbon fiber dust-exposed employees included years of prior frontline manufacturing work (OR = 5.018, 95% CI = 2.728-9.231) and employment in grinding workshops (OR = 3.111, 95% CI = 1.123-8.624). Protective factors against such risks encompassed high awareness of occupational disease prevention (OR = 0.739, 95% CI = 0.595-0.919) and college or bachelor's educational attainment (OR = 0.131, 95% CI = 0.024-0.699). CONCLUSION: Workers engaged in carbon fiber product molding face a certain risk of carbon fiber dust exposure. The occupational health risks of employees exposed to carbon fiber dust are associated with years of prior frontline work, educational background, personal protective behaviors, and other relevant factors.
Frontiers in public healthYanhong Wang, Liping He, Qing Xia
OBJECTIVE: To examine the indirect associations of perceived organizational support and psychological capital in the relationship between job crafting and occupational wellbeing among nurses working in central sterile supply departments (CSSDs). METHODS: Between April and May 2025, a total of 401 CSSD nurses were recruited using convenience sampling from seven provinces in China. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the Perceived Organizational Support Scale, the Psychological Capital Questionnaire, the Job Crafting Scale, and the Occupational Wellbeing Scale. RESULTS: The mean scores were as follows: perceived organizational support (61.53 ± 10.07), psychological capital (82.43 ± 10.46), job crafting (47.17 ± 7.44), and occupational wellbeing (86.70 ± 9.05). Female CSSD nurses reported lower occupational wellbeing scores compared with their male counterparts. Nurses with more than 20 years of total work experience in CSSDs exhibited lower occupational wellbeing scores than those with 10 years of experience. Path analysis revealed that job crafting had a weak direct association on occupational wellbeing (β = 0.185, 95% CI = 0.026-0.308, P < 0.001), whereas the total effect was substantial (0.838). Indirect associations were observed through perceived organizational support (β = 0.511, 95% CI = 0.417-0.644, P < 0.001) and psychological capital (β = 0.142, 95% CI = 0.060-0.226, P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Perceived organizational support and psychological capital showed significant indirect associations in the relationship between job crafting and occupational wellbeing among CSSD nurses. The indirect associations are hypothesis-generating and require confirmation in longitudinal or experimental studies before intervention recommendations can be made.
Frontiers in public healthHongying Bian, Xin Wang, Yiwen Dong, Ning Kang, Lin Zhang
BACKGROUND: Occupational hazard factors in the footwear manufacturing industry are complex and encompass benzene series compounds, ketones, esters, dust, noise, and other agents. Existing mainstream occupational health risk assessment methods-including the Singapore semi-quantitative risk assessment method (Ministry of Manpower method, hereafter referred to as the MOM method), the exposure ratio method specified in GBZ/T 298-2017 (hereafter referred to as the exposure ratio method), the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) inhalation risk assessment method (hereafter referred to as the EPA method), and the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) occupational health risk assessment model (hereafter referred to as the ICMM method)-each have specific applicable scenarios and limitations. No single method can achieve precise risk grading and dynamic management. OBJECTIVE: To construct a novel occupational health risk grading method that integrates the strengths of four mainstream methods, based on a risk matrix and dynamic weighting, and to validate its applicability using footwear manufacturing enterprises as a case study. METHODS: Four footwear manufacturing enterprises (A, B, C, D) were selected, and on-site measurements of chemical toxicants, dust, and noise in the workplace were conducted. Risk assessments were performed using the MOM method, the exposure ratio method, the EPA method, and the ICMM method. A risk ratio normalization approach was applied to align the risk levels from all methods into a unified five-level system. On this basis, a risk matrix was constructed, and a combined weighting approach integrating the entropy weight method and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was employed to determine the dynamic weights of each method under different hazard scenarios. A comprehensive risk index (CRI) was constructed and graded. Consistency among methods was analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation, weighted Kappa coefficient, Fleiss' Kappa coefficient, and Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS: Maximum benzene concentrations reached 3.41 mg/m3 (Enterprise B) and 5.7 mg/m3 (Enterprise C, exceeding the limit); methyl ethyl ketone peaked at 175.0 mg/m3 (Enterprise D). The conventional methods showed moderate agreement (Fleiss' Kappa = 0.455). CRI demonstrated substantial agreement with each method (κ_w = 0.625-0.796) and significantly moderated ICMM overestimation (Z = -2.873108, p = 0.004). CRI classified Enterprise C gluing as Level V (CRI = 1.00) and Enterprise D benzene as Level II (CRI = 0.28). Dust yielded a maximum CRI of 0.42 (medium risk). Noise CRI reached 0.60 (medium risk, Level III). Sensitivity analysis confirmed robustness of α, β, γ coefficients. CONCLUSION: The constructed grading and classification method can more objectively and comprehensively reflect the actual occupational health risks in footwear manufacturing enterprises, providing a scientific basis for formulating differentiated and precise management strategies.
Australian health review : a publication of the Australian Hospital AssociationRamy Awadalla, Noor Hadeed, Derek Davies
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally, and outdoor workers represent a key high-risk population due to prolonged occupational sun exposure. Despite a robust legislative framework mandating comprehensive workplace sun protection, evidence indicates suboptimal implementation and compliance in Australian workplaces. This perspective critically analyses the documented gap between policy and practice, examining the individual, cultural and organisational barriers to effective sun protection. We argue that current workplace policies are insufficient without rigorous enforcement, adequate penalties and a genuine shift in workplace culture. Furthermore, we highlight the pivotal role of occupational health physicians and general practitioners in bridging this gap through patient identification, targeted education, and early skin cancer detection. Closing the policy-practice gap requires a concerted, multi-pronged effort from policymakers, employers, workers, and clinicians to move beyond mere compliance and foster a culture of sun safety.
Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)Marta González Rivas, Ángel Arturo López-González, Diego González Carrasco, Carla Busquets-Cortés, María Teófila Vicente-Herrero, José Ignacio Ramírez-Manent
Background: Technostress has emerged as a growing occupational health concern in increasingly digitalized workplaces. Although its psychological consequences have been extensively investigated, little is known about its potential association with metabolic health and insulin resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between technostress and insulin resistance risk using four validated surrogate markers in a large cohort of Spanish workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 104,175 Spanish workers who underwent routine occupational health assessments. Technostress was assessed using a 15-item questionnaire covering five technostress dimensions and was analyzed using four operational categories (low, moderate, high, and very high). Insulin resistance risk was assessed using the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, TyG-body mass index (TyG-BMI), the metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR), and the single-point insulin sensitivity estimator (SPISE). Sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical parameters were also recorded. Modified Poisson regression with robust variance estimation was used to estimate crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (PRs) for increased insulin resistance risk according to technostress level. Firth penalized logistic regression was additionally performed as a sensitivity analysis to address sparse-data bias and separation. Results: Higher technostress levels were associated with progressively less favorable anthropometric and metabolic profiles. The prevalence of increased insulin resistance risk rose significantly across technostress categories for all markers evaluated (p < 0.001). For TyG, prevalence increased from 3.8% in the low technostress group to 54.3% in the very high technostress group. Corresponding increases were observed for TyG-BMI (0.2% to 78.2%), METS-IR (0.0% to 45.2%), and elevated SPISE-IR values (0.0% to 57.5%). After adjustment for age, sex, educational level, physical activity, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and smoking status, higher technostress remained associated with a higher prevalence of increased insulin resistance risk. A clear graded cross-sectional pattern was observed, with the strongest associations found among workers reporting very high technostress. Conclusions: Higher technostress was associated with a higher prevalence of increased insulin resistance risk according to TyG, the primary outcome, with a clear graded cross-sectional pattern across technostress categories. Associations were also observed for the secondary BMI-containing indices (TyG-BMI, METS-IR, and SPISE-IR), which should be interpreted as complementary rather than independent evidence. Given the cross-sectional design and the pronounced clustering of technostress with adiposity and lifestyle characteristics, residual confounding cannot be excluded and causal inference is not possible.
Frontiers in public healthAndrea Schaller, Lena Katharina Spanio, Martin Lange
INTRODUCTION: The prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCD) is rising and increasingly affects people of working age. Thereby, NCD burden those affected and challenge society, welfare systems and companies in many different ways. Workplace Health Promotion (WHP) is considered promising to improve and maintain employee health and physical activity (PA)-related WHP programs constitute a main area of action. This study aimed to better understand the needs employees with NCD have with regard to PA related WHP programs. METHODS: In an exploratory approach, qualitative partly structured interviews were conducted with 15 employees with NCD. The interviews were analyzed using structuring content analysis with concurrent deductive and inductive main categories, dimensions and expressions. RESULTS: Based on the interviews, four main categories were identified: "subjective health concept", "workplace-related health challenges and coping strategies", "experiences with WHP" and "wishes and needs in terms of PA-related WHP". "Subjective health concept" comprised the personal definition and the personal relevance of health. "Workplace-related health challenges and coping strategies" could be divided into physical and psychological demands and reported strategies were physical activity, nutrition, a supportive social environment and relaxing activities. The "experiences with WHP" comprised type of program, reasons for participation, access channels and subjective evaluation. The "wishes and needs in terms of PA-related WHP" referred to specific PA-content, structural aspects and psychosocial aspects. DISCUSSION: The findings provide insights into the experiences and needs of employees with NCD regarding PA-related WHP and provides recommendations for the further development of WHP tailored to specific target groups. Thereby, WHP for employees with NCD must not only be consistently adapted to the target group's work-related environment, but also take into account their mental, physical, and social limitations.
F1000ResearchBasma Basma, Patang Patang, Suardi Suardi, Muhammad Irfan, Darmawan Darmawan, Ahmad Swandi
Occupational safety has become an essential competency in vocational education, particularly in agricultural programs where students are exposed to high-risk practical activities. Although Project-Based Learning (PjBL) has been widely recognized for promoting authentic learning, limited evidence exists regarding how Occupational Safety-Integrated Project-Based Learning (OS-PjBL) influences different learning domains simultaneously. This study investigated the comparative learning outcomes of OS-PjBL across the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains in agricultural vocational education. A quantitative evaluative design was employed involving 30 undergraduate students enrolled in the Agricultural Production Technology program at Pangkep State Polytechnic of Agriculture, Indonesia. The validated OS-PjBL model was implemented through authentic project activities integrating hazard identification, risk assessment, safety procedures, and reflective practice. Cognitive outcomes were measured using achievement tests, while affective and psychomotor competencies were assessed through structured observation sheets and performance rubrics. Data were analyzed descriptively using measures of central tendency and percentage-based comparisons across learning domains. The findings revealed a substantial gain in cognitive achievement and high achievement levels in the affective and psychomotor domains. Students achieved a cognitive post-test mean score of 86.87, while affective and psychomotor competencies reached overall achievement levels of 92.5% and 95.0%, respectively. Comparative descriptive analysis indicated that psychomotor competence demonstrated the highest level of achievement, followed by affective and cognitive outcomes. These findings suggest that integrating occupational safety throughout project-based learning effectively promotes holistic competence development by simultaneously strengthening conceptual understanding, professional attitudes, and practical workplace performance. This study extends the PjBL literature by positioning occupational safety not merely as supplementary instructional content but as the pedagogical organizing principle of authentic learning experiences, providing a practical framework for preparing safety-conscious and industry-ready vocational graduates.
JAMA network openTimothy A Murray, Andrew G Thompson, Axel Wolff, Melissa D Richardson, Abe R Dummar, Kevin A Bigelman
IMPORTANCE: Musculoskeletal injuries are a leading cause of pain, disability, and lost workforce productivity in the US. These injuries are more frequent in physically demanding occupations, making strategies to accelerate recovery a critical economic, public health, and workforce sustainability issue. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether an embedded interdisciplinary occupational health intervention was associated with faster return-to-work times after a musculoskeletal injury. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This cohort study analyzed longitudinal data on 43 870 526 person-month observations from active-duty US Army personnel collected between October 1, 2017, and September 30, 2025. EXPOSURE: Assignment to an Army unit with an embedded Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) occupational health system, which includes on-site physical therapists, athletic trainers, occupational therapists, registered dietitians, strength and conditioning coaches, and cognitive performance specialists. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Number of limited duty workdays after a musculoskeletal injury and time to return to full duty. Linear regression, logistic regression, and Kaplan-Meier models with inverse probability of treatment weighting were used to estimate the association between the intervention and recovery outcomes. RESULTS: Among 1 420 195 musculoskeletal injuries in active-duty soldiers (mean [SD] age, 28.6 [7.64] years; 79% male) that resulted in limited duty restrictions, 19% were in soldiers exposed to the H2F embedded occupational health system. Exposure to H2F was associated with a 5.9% (95% CI, 7.2%-4.6%; P < .001) reduction in the duration of limited duty workdays compared with soldiers not exposed to H2F. Reductions in limited duty workdays were greater for lower-body injuries than for upper-body injuries. These reductions corresponded to an estimated 3.3 million to 4.0 million workdays restored during the study period, representing an annual labor productivity value of $93 million to $164 million. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this cohort study of active-duty US Army soldiers, embedding an interdisciplinary occupational health system directly into the workplace was associated with a significantly accelerated recovery time from musculoskeletal injuries. These findings suggest that employer-sponsored occupational health interventions are a scalable strategy to reduce injury-related absenteeism and enhance workforce productivity, particularly in high-risk industries.
Frontiers in public healthMargaret C Morrissey, Jason Kai Wei Lee, Ian Rollo, Yannis Pitsiladis
Rises in global temperatures have threatened the health, safety, and productivity of workers who perform physically demanding work. Traditionally, occupational heat illness prevention plan have relied on environmental monitoring and administrative controls, however, these approaches do not account for the considerable intra- and inter-variability in physiological responses to extreme heat. In contrast, elite sport has served as a valuable test bed for investigating thermoregulation, exertional heat illness, and the feasibility of real-time physiological monitoring. Experiences from recent Olympic Games have demonstrated that integrated environmental and physiological monitoring systems can operate at scale under extreme heat conditions, while also highlighting important technological, operational, and governance limitations. Translating these advances to occupational settings presents both opportunities and challenges because workers differ substantially from athletes in age, health status, heat acclimatisation, work demands, exposure duration, and access to medical oversight. Furthermore, implementation is complicated by concerns regarding data governance, privacy, informed consent, device validity, interpretation of physiological information, and the use of physiological thresholds to guide workplace decisions. This commentary examines lessons learned from elite sport and discusses their application to occupational heatsafety programs. We propose a tiered adoption framework that aligns physiological monitoring complexity with organizational capacity, technical expertise, and governance requirements, ranging from foundational heat-safety practices to advanced multimodal physiological monitoring under professional oversight. Physiological monitoring should complement, but not replace, established heat-stress prevention strategies and be implemented within clearly defined operational and ethical boundaries. Future research should focus on validating wearable technologies in occupational environments, developing individualized decision frameworks, and establishing governance structures that support responsible implementation.
Frontiers in public healthIvana Nikolić, Snježana Mraković, Marko Badrić
BACKGROUND: Musculoskeletal disorders and psychosocial stressors are highly prevalent among early childhood education (ECE) teachers and may adversely affect work ability. This study examined occupational health factors associated with work ability among Croatian ECE teachers, with particular focus on musculoskeletal pain, work-related functional limitations, and exposure to work-related stressors. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was completed by 472 early childhood education (ECE) teachers. Measures included musculoskeletal pain across six body regions, work-related functional limitations, work-related stressors, physical activity, and an adapted single-item measure of current work ability. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to examine occupational health factors associated with work ability, and mediation analyses (PROCESS, 5,000 bootstrap samples) were conducted to examine indirect associations. RESULTS: Work-related functional limitations and exposure to work-related stressors showed the strongest negative associations with work ability. Musculoskeletal pain was not independently associated with work ability in the final regression model, but mediation analyses were statistically consistent with indirect associations via functional limitations and work-related stressors. Teachers who met WHO physical activity recommendations reported slightly higher work ability and more favorable occupational health indicators, although physical activity was not independently associated with work ability. CONCLUSION: Work ability among early childhood education (ECE) teachers was most closely associated with work-related functional limitations and work-related stressors. Musculoskeletal pain was not independently associated with work ability, although the mediation analyses were statistically consistent with indirect associations via functional limitations and work-related stressors. These findings highlight the importance of considering both physical and psychosocial aspects of occupational health when addressing work ability in ECE settings. Given the cross-sectional design, the observed associations should not be interpreted as causal.
Asia-Pacific psychiatry : official journal of the Pacific Rim College of PsychiatristsZhaohui Su, Xue Yang, Chaojun Tong, Mehak Intizar, Junaid Ahmad, Dean McDonnell, Barry L Bentley, Ali Cheshmehzangi, Jing-Bao Nie, Chee H Ng, Yu-Tao Xiang
Current understanding of mental health problems among aviation pilots remains limited. Pilots are exposed to distinctive occupational stressors, and when psychological distress occurs, they may be reluctant to disclose symptoms or seek timely assistance because of concerns about stigma, loss of income, licensing restrictions, or medical disqualification from flying. Pilot mental health is therefore not only an occupational health issue, but also a critical component of aviation safety governance. Although the vast majority of mental health conditions do not lead to flight safety events, in rare circumstances, severe psychological crises that remain unidentified or unsupported may result in catastrophic outcomes, including aircraft-assisted pilot suicide. These tragic events underscore the potential safety implications of pilot mental health and highlight the urgent need for greater attention to this critical issue. This article argues that prevention should be centered on system-level measures, including confidential peer support, carefully governed digital tools, destigmatized safety cultures, and harmonized data infrastructures.
Frontiers in public healthZheng Ma, Xingzi Chen, Binhua Jing
With the acceleration of digital transformation, perceived algorithmic management has gradually evolved into a widespread new type of occupational psychosocial hazard. From the perspective of occupational health, this study explores the negative association between perceived algorithmic management on employees' physical and mental health and systematically examines the chain mediating role of frustrated work autonomy and workplace AI replacement anxiety. Using a questionnaire survey method, this study collected data from 338 employees in multiple industries in China who were directly affected by perceived algorithmic management, SPSS 27.0 was used for preliminary statistical analyses (descriptive statistics, reliability testing, and correlation analysis), while AMOS 28.0 was used to construct and test the structural equation model (SEM) for confirmatory factor analysis and path estimation. Bootstrap resampling with 5,000 iterations was applied to assess indirect effects. The results show that perceived algorithmic management is significantly negatively associated with employees' physical and mental health; frustrated work autonomy and workplace AI replacement anxiety not only each play an independent mediating role in this relationship, but also constitute a significant chain mediating pathway. This study suggests a potential mechanism through which perceived algorithmic management in the digital era may be associated with occupational health risks, providing important empirical evidence for governments to formulate public health intervention policies, for enterprises to optimize management systems, and for the implementation of workplace mental health protection.
Obstetrics and gynecologyACOG Committee on Clinical Consensus–Obstetrics
In the United States, it is common for pregnant individuals to work outside the home. Working during pregnancy is generally safe. Before 2023, there were no federal protections guaranteeing comprehensive accommodation for pregnant and postpartum individuals. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) is a federal law that requires covered employers to provide reasonable accommodations to workers with known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions. This Committee Statement provides an overview of the law, including information on supporting documentation requirements, and highlights previous guidance on workplace safety during pregnancy that health care professionals can use to inform clinical recommendations for their patients and employers. Obstetrician-gynecologists and other obstetric care professionals play an important role in assisting patients in accessing workplace accommodations and in ensuring that patients are aware that they may have legal rights to accommodations and leave. Please see the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists' PWFA topic page for additional information about the federal law and regulations, sample accommodation notes, and other practical resources (http://www.acog.org/pwfa).
Frontiers in public healthJohanna Samulin Erdem, Ingrid Løken Jørgensen, Lina Wik
UNLABELLED: Energy-intensive industries account for a substantial share of the global greenhouse gas emissions. The transition to net-zero emissions by 2050 demands development of industrial infrastructure and implementation of low-carbon technologies. This transition is expected to result in altered exposure scenarios for workers. This scoping review aims to map the evidence on the occupational exposures and related health consequences of industrial decarbonization processes and to identify current research gaps. The review will follow the JBI and PRISMA-ScR guidelines for scoping reviews and is registered under the Open Science Framework (osf.io/7xzy4). A systematic literature search combining terms related to industrial decarbonization with occupational and worker-related terms will be conducted in Web of Science, Embase, MEDLINE, and Scopus. The search will be supplemented by targeted gray literature searches to identify relevant technical reports and policy documents. Data will be charted using a standardized template and synthesized descriptively and thematically by occupational exposure and health effects, investigated populations, industrial sectors, decarbonization processes or technologies to map patterns in the available evidence, identify emerging occupational risks, and current research gaps. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: osf.io/7xzy4.
BMC public healthParisa Nejati, Lida Nejati, Jamileh Abolghasemi, Seyed Abbas Motevalian
BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity is a growing concern among working populations, with implications for health and productivity. Unlike most previous studies, this research draws on large-scale cohort data from Iranian employees to examine the associations with socioeconomic and occupational factors on physical activity, addressing an evidence gap in workforce health inequalities. METHODS: This cross-sectional analysis used baseline data collected between 2017 and 2020 from the Employee Health Cohort Study of Iran (EHCSIR), a 15-year longitudinal project to identify risk factors of non-communicable diseases. EHCSIR participants are mainly employees affiliated with the Iran University of Medical Sciences and the Ministry of Health and Medical Education. Of the 4,886 EHCSIR participants, 3,997 with complete physical activity and sociodemographic data were included in the analysis. The data included employee age, gender, marital status, economic status (wealth index), education level, job, and workplace, calculated via principal component analysis (PCA). Physical activity level (i.e., mild, moderate, and vigorous) was measured using the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) in MET-minutes per week. It was also categorized according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, which recommend at least 150 min of moderate activity, 75 min of vigorous activity, or a total of 600 MET-minutes per week for adults. Accordingly, the employees were classified as physically inactive or adequately / highly active. The data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression models together with fixed-effects and random-effects models. RESULTS: Nearly 64% of employees in Iran did not meet the WHO's recommendations for physical activity. The mean total physical activity level was 599.2 and 941.8 MET-minutes per week in female and male employees, respectively. The highest percentage of inactive employees was observed in 45-54-year-olds (66.3%), females (67%), married employees (64.7%), Q4 of the wealth index (70.1%), associates (66.2%), office workers (94.8%), and employees working in health centers (67.1%). Physical activity levels varied significantly across age, gender, job type, workplace, and socioeconomic status. Employees in sedentary roles and higher-SES groups were less likely to be physically active, while younger, male, and hospital-based staff showed higher activity levels. CONCLUSION: These findings reveal structural inequalities in workplace physical activity and underscore the need for targeted health promotion strategies. Several factors may contribute to insufficient physical activity among the participants, including low awareness about the benefits of physical activity, lack of workplace exercise facilities, the high cost of attending fitness classes and other related barriers. Interventions tailored to occupational context-such as PA-friendly environments and flexible scheduling-may help reduce inactivity and improve employee well-being.
Frontiers in public healthWilliam Brett Perkison, Dejian Lai, Ross Shegog, Geethika Yalavarthy, Hye Seung Lucy Lee, Rosalia Guerrero-Luera, Jefferey McLaughlin, Ismail Nabeel
Flood recovery workers, also known as reconstruction workers, face elevated occupational risks, including exposure to hazardous environmental conditions, infectious agents, and unsafe labor practices, yet often lack access to timely, culturally appropriate safety training and advocacy resources. Pocket Ark 2.0, a mobile application software, was developed as a bilingual, mobile digital decision-support and training platform designed to enhance occupational safety, preparedness, and worker advocacy during post-flood disaster recovery. The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the usability, technology acceptance, and knowledge outcomes associated with Pocket Ark 2.0 among reconstruction workers participating in a simulated disaster-response training. Using a single-group, post-test study design, 55 reconstruction workers affiliated with a community-based worker advocacy organization completed interactive, scenario-based modules covering personal protective equipment, wage documentation, hazard reporting, communication, and resource navigation. Outcomes included pre- and post-knowledge assessments, the System Usability Scale (SUS), and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Participants demonstrated improvements in occupational safety knowledge following the simulation. Usability outcomes were strong, with a median SUS score of 86.25, indicating excellent perceived usability. Technology acceptance was high, with most participants reporting favorable perceptions of usefulness and ease of use. Language accessibility and prior familiarity with digital tools were significant predictors of usability and acceptance, underscoring the importance of culturally and linguistically tailored design. These findings support the feasibility of Pocket Ark 2.0 as a scalable, community-embedded digital intervention for enhancing safety training, preparedness, and advocacy among disaster recovery workers. Digital decision-support platforms that integrate education, communication, and resource coordination may represent an effective strategy for advancing occupational health equity in disaster response settings.
Annals of work exposures and healthNasim Alnuman, Omaimah Ali
OBJECTIVES: Noise generated in olive oil mills poses a danger to workers' physical health. Although noise exposure levels in olive oil mills are high, few studies have investigated them. This study assessed noise exposure levels in Jordanian olive oil mills, their distribution, and sound characteristic to inform appropriate safety measures for protecting workers' hearing health. METHODS: Sound pressure levels were measured across 6 operational areas: loading area, cleaning units, hammer crusher and malaxer, decanter, centrifugal separator, and offices area. The sound pressure levels were measured alongside C-weighted peak level, percentiles 10 and 90, and maximum and minimum levels with fast-time weighting. RESULTS: Noise exposure levels exceeded international and Jordanian directives upper limit of 85 dB(A), reaching 100 dB(A). Spectral analysis shows dominant sound pressure levels around the 2 and 4 kHz frequencies. None of the employees in the investigated mills wore personal protective equipment (earplugs or earmuffs), and most of them worked 10 to 11 h daily, exposing them to significant risks of noise-induced hearing loss. CONCLUSIONS: Olive oil mills should take actions to reduce noise using sound-absorbing materials on walls and machine enclosures. There is a concerning lack of awareness regarding noise-related hazards, and awareness campaigns for mill owners and employees are important to drive significant improvements achieving good health and well-being.
PloS oneChiara Reck, Lukas Belz, Dorothee Dengler, Nora Maria Puls, Volker Harth, Marcus Oldenburg
INTRODUCTION: The unique occupational conditions of seafaring are associated with increased physical and psychological stress and significantly complicate common approaches to health promotion and prevention. Digital health technologies are therefore considered promising alternatives that can better address barriers to access, infrastructural shortcomings and cultural diversity. OBJECTIVE: The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of scientific evidence about digital measures used for health promotion and prevention among seafarers and crew members on merchant ships (cargo/passenger). As secondary study aim, digital practical programs established to promote health at sea will also be presented. METHODS: This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the updated methodological guidelines from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and the PRISMA-ScR checklist. The protocol was prospectively registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF). The literature search was conducted systematically in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and LIVIVO, and study selection was carried out based on the selection criteria. In addition, a targeted web search for digital practical programs was conducted. RESULTS: A total of 1,711 sources were identified, 68 full-text articles were screened, and 9 studies were included in the qualitative analysis. The evidence base is highly heterogeneous, consisting of various study designs ranging from pilot studies to one randomized controlled trial (RCT). Only articles on digital health promotion and prevention were identified. No studies were found that examined digital health literacy. All included studies focused exclusively on seafarers working on cargo ships. Four studies investigated behavioral approaches, while two studies focused on structural approaches and the remaining three studies dealt with blended concepts. Thematic focus varies, addressing topics such as nutrition, mental health, skin cancer prevention, and digital prediction models. In addition, six digital practical programs on topics such as physical activity, mental health, sleep and stress management, and nutrition were identified. CONCLUSIONS: An overview of the current state of research and practical applications regarding digital health promotion and prevention among seafarers on merchant ships was provided. The topic has been scarcely addressed in the shipping industry to date. Concurrently, the heterogeneity of the evidence, the restricted number of relevant studies, and the variable quality of the studies indicate a necessity for further research. Academic research should also address the topic of digital health literacy and the demands of crew members on passenger ships. Based on the findings, it is recommended that shipping companies take responsibility for promoting the health of seafarers on board their ships by empowering their crews.
Annals of work exposures and healthPiia Taxell, Milja Koponen, Linda Schenk, Linda Paegle, Linda Matisāne, Susann Wolf, Aurora Moen, Steen Mollerup, Helge Johnsen, Davor Kontić, Jenni Kaisto, Ti…
Occupational exposure limits (OELs) under occupational safety and health (OSH) legislation, and authorisation and restriction requirements under the chemicals regulation REACH, are the key regulatory tools for managing workplace chemical exposures in the EU. The present study examines how OELs and REACH requirements are interpreted and implemented at the workplace level, and how they impact workplace chemical safety. A mixed-methods study was conducted in Finland, Latvia, Norway, and Slovenia. An online survey targeted labor inspectors (n = 85), and company OSH managers (n = 323) in 3 sectors: chemical industry, metal industry, and motor vehicle maintenance and repair. In addition, semistructured interviews were conducted with labor inspectors (n = 19) and OSH experts (n = 30), including company and organization representatives and OSH service providers. Survey data were analyzed descriptively, and inductive content analysis was used for the interview data. Awareness of OELs and REACH requirements was reported as highly variable across workplaces in all participating countries, with larger companies higher in the supply chain demonstrating greater awareness and implementation capacity. Safety data sheets and chemical suppliers were the most frequently reported information sources. OELs were recognized as reference values for exposure and risk assessment, while REACH restrictions and authorisations were more often associated with discontinuation of substance use. Reported barriers to implementation included limited financial resources, insufficient competence in smaller companies, complex legislation, and weak supply chain communication. Positive examples included mandatory training obligations (eg diisocyanate restriction) and proactive inspection practices.
Current hypertension reportsTyler D Quinn, Mikenna Love, Vikrant Jagadeesan, William R Boyer
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To summarize the prospective and experimental evidence examining occupational physical activity (OPA) and hypertension-related outcomes, discuss potential physiological mechanisms, and identify methodological challenges contributing to heterogeneity across studies. RECENT FINDINGS: Prospective evidence linking OPA with hypertension and resting blood pressure remains limited and inconsistent, with studies reporting predominantly null or modestly inverse associations. Some evidence suggests very high OPA may be unfavorable in specific subgroups, particularly when combined with low recovery or high cardiovascular strain. Experimental and ambulatory monitoring studies indicate that some forms of OPA may produce higher ambulatory cardiovascular load, and impaired autonomic recovery despite limited impacts on resting clinic blood pressure. In contrast, leisure-time physical activity consistently demonstrates antihypertensive benefits. OPA and leisure-time physical activity may not have equivalent cardiovascular impacts. Future research should prioritize improved exposure assessment, ambulatory cardiovascular monitoring, and mechanistic study designs.
Frontiers in public healthLiying Zhang, Yun Feng, Dan Li, Dongfang Liu
Operating rooms are complex, high-risk, and technology-intensive environments in which nurses perform safety-critical roles. This review aimed to reframe workplace safety, wellbeing, and performance among operating room nurses as interconnected system-level determinants of perioperative care. Using a thematic narrative approach and conceptual scope, literature published mainly between 2020 and 2026 was reviewed, with selected foundational studies included where conceptually necessary. Evidence was synthesized across occupational hazards, psychosocial stress, emotional labor, burnout, compassion fatigue, quality of work life, teamwork, safety culture, distractions, cognitive load, ergonomics, robotic surgery, artificial intelligence, perioperative competency, empowerment, retention, and workforce sustainability. The findings indicate that unsafe or poorly supported operating room environments expose nurses to physical, psychological, cognitive, ergonomic, and technological pressures that may compromise wellbeing and professional performance. Nurse wellbeing supports attention, communication, emotional regulation, resilience, clinical judgment, and participation in safety practices. Conversely, burnout, compassion fatigue, interruptions, hierarchical communication, ergonomic strain, and inadequate technology readiness may weaken vigilance, teamwork, procedural reliability, and patient-safety margins. Operating room nursing performance is therefore multidimensional, encompassing technical competence, infection-prevention behavior, situational awareness, adaptability, speaking-up behavior, and technology-enabled workflow coordination. Treating nurse safety and wellbeing as patient-safety and system-performance priorities may strengthen surgical care, teamwork, retention, and the sustainability of perioperative healthcare systems.