Pilar Lorenzale Algarra, Agustín Sánchez-Toledo, Alejandro Guillen Riquelme, Juan José Agún-González, Raúl Aguilar-Elena
{"title":"Evaluation of the suitability of COSHH Essentials for qualitative assessment of inhalation risk from chemical agents in perfume laboratories: a new perspective.","authors":"Pilar Lorenzale Algarra, Agustín Sánchez-Toledo, Alejandro Guillen Riquelme, Juan José Agún-González, Raúl Aguilar-Elena","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2575603","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2575603","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives.</i> Professionals in the perfume industry are routinely exposed to numerous chemical substances during olfactory evaluations, some of which may pose inhalation hazards. Existing qualitative risk assessment tools, such as Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Essentials, provide approximate estimates and may not be well suited to industries with highly specific exposure conditions like perfumery<i>.</i> This study evaluates the applicability and limitations of COSHH Essentials in perfume laboratories and proposes an improved qualitative framework tailored to perfumers' exposure scenarios. <i>Methods.</i> A total of 626 substances from a perfumer's palette were assessed using COSHH Essentials, which classifies substances into risk levels based on hazard, volatility and quantity. A complementary method incorporating molecular-level hazard analysis, exposure patterns, occupational exposure limits and conservative inhalation dose estimations was developed. Statistical agreement between both methods was examined using Cohen's <i>κ</i>, and McNemar's test assessed significant differences. <i>Results.</i> COSHH Essentials identified 76 hazardous substances, while the enhanced method identified 81 substances, including five additional requiring local exhaust ventilation. Agreement was moderate (<i>κ</i> = 0.58; <i>p</i> = 0.031). <i>Conclusion.</i> COSHH Essentials provides a useful baseline but lacks the specificity needed in industries with intentional close-range exposure. The enhanced method enables more precise, context-sensitive assessment and better protection in fragrance laboratories.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"683-692"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145490620","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Occupational ergonomic risks among ambulance personnel: insights from REBA-based assessment.","authors":"Emine Gülsoy Altintaş, Ülken Tunga Babaoğlu","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2565915","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2565915","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives.</i> This study aimed to determine the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among ambulance workers and evaluate their ergonomic risk using the rapid entire body assessment (REBA) method. <i>Methods</i>. The cross-sectional study involved 246 ambulance personnel working in the ambulance service. Data were collected through a structured survey. Additionally, a subset of 30 participants underwent ergonomic risk assessment using the REBA method, focusing on five common tasks. <i>χ</i><sup>2</sup> and correlation analyses were performed to examine associations between variables. <i>Results.</i> MSD prevalence was 59.76%, with the lower back (60.2%), neck (45.1%) and shoulders (45.1%) being most affected. Significant associations were found between MSD presence and age (<i>p</i> < 0.001), height (<i>p</i> = 0.004), weight (<i>p</i> = 0.023) and years of experience (<i>p</i> < 0.001). The highest REBA risk score was for stretcher lifting (8.62), while vascular access had the lowest (2.52). Heavy lifting, multi-tasking and psychological stress were significant risk factors for MSDs (respectively <i>p</i> = 0.008, <i>p</i> = 0.018, <i>p</i> = 0.016). <i>Conclusions</i>. Ambulance personnel are exposed to high risk of MSDs as a result of the physically demanding nature of their work. Implementation of comprehensive ergonomic training programs, effective workload management strategies and use of assistive lifting devices may significantly reduce the risk of MSDs and enhance overall well-being and performance of paramedics.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"623-631"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145313880","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Stress reduction: a comparative analysis of watering indoor plants and computer work.","authors":"Huang Yan, Ahmad Hassan","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2550858","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2550858","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study investigates the effectiveness of watering indoor plants as a stress-reduction strategy compared to engaging in computer tasks among college students. Participants randomly assigned to one of two groups each performed their respective activities for 15 min. A comprehensive evaluation included measures of blood pressure, electroencephalography, the semantic differential method and the state-trait anxiety inventory to assess emotional and physiological responses. Results revealed a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure, while electroencephalography data showed neural patterns associated with a more relaxed cognitive state. Participants in the plant-watering group also exhibited higher meditation scores, reinforcing the stress-relieving potential of this intervention. Psychological data indicated that those in the plant-watering group reported greater relaxation, comfort and perceived connection to nature, as well as lower anxiety scores, compared to the computer task group. These findings highlight the benefits of nature-based activities in reducing stress and promoting well-being in academic and work environments.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"516-527"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145138793","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Upper extremity strain in caregivers during enteral tube feeding of semi-solid nutrients to children requiring constant medical care: a simulated experiment focusing on the impact of new injection devices compliant with Standard No. ISO 80369-3.","authors":"Hiroji Tsujimura, Akiko Nagae, Teruyo Kitahara, Satoko Henmi, Masao Kumode, Shin-Ichi Shirahoshi, Kazushi Taoda","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2550841","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2550841","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives.</i> Healthcare facilities provide semi-solid nutrients to children requiring enteral tube feeding. The introduction of a new injection device (NEW) with a different syringe-to-tube connector geometry from a pre-existing device (PRE) results in increased workload, and an increase in nurses developing hand pain is a concern. A simulated experiment was conducted to determine the impact on upper extremity strain due to the difference between NEW and PRE. <i>Methods.</i> Twelve nurses performed two injection tasks for one portion of semi-solid nutrients into a dummy gastrostomy using the NEW and PRE. Surface electromyograms were measured on the upper extremity. Task time was divided into sucking and extruding manipulations. Task time and mean myoelectric potentials were calculated for each manipulation and statistically compared between the NEW and PRE. Forces required to manipulate the syringe for semi-solid nutrient injection were estimated using fluid dynamic models. <i>Results.</i> Task time was significantly longer with the NEW. Myoelectric potentials for sucking manipulation were significantly higher with the NEW. Sucking force with the NEW was approximately twice that of the PRE. <i>Conclusion.</i> Sucking with the NEW placed a high strain on the caregiver's hand/wrist. The NEW is less appropriate for enteral tube feeding of semi-solid nutrients.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"503-515"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145193454","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A screening framework for critical movements in the ergonomic evaluation of personal protective clothing: validation in pilot immersion-resistant winter protective suits.","authors":"Fang Fang, Junyu Liu, Lihui Zhang","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2026.2668247","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/10803548.2026.2668247","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives.</i> Movement constraints imposed by personal protective equipment (PPE) not only increase the risk of occupational injuries but also significantly impair operational efficiency. However, current ergonomic evaluation frameworks often lack a systematic approach for selecting critical movements, leading to redundant testing and imprecise evaluation outcomes. This study aimed to reduce occupational injury risks and establish a standardized methodology for movement selection in the ergonomic evaluation of PPE. <i>Methods.</i> Four principles - relevance, significance, complementarity and conciseness - were proposed to develop a universal framework for movement selection, incorporating both subjective and objective assessments. Empirical validation was conducted on a pilot immersion-resistant winter protective suit, combining objective range-of-motion measurements, subjective comfort questionnaires, statistical analysis and a priority diagram weighting method. A parallel test on summer protective clothing was also conducted to validate the effectiveness of the movement screening process. <i>Results.</i> Eight objectively evaluated movements and six subjectively evaluated movements were identified which precisely pinpoint areas of movement restriction in protective clothing. The results from the parallel tests demonstrated a high degree of consistency. <i>Conclusion.</i> The proposed framework offers a standardized, efficient tool for ergonomic screening that can be adapted to various types of PPE and high-risk occupational settings.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"1-17"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148139372","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Umut Yildirim, Arda Toygar, Senem Nart, Sultan Çoşkun Kaya, Sevda Akar
{"title":"Gender-based occupational challenges in the maritime industry: a comprehensive questionnaire validation.","authors":"Umut Yildirim, Arda Toygar, Senem Nart, Sultan Çoşkun Kaya, Sevda Akar","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2555730","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2555730","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives.</i> Ensuring occupational safety and well-being in high-risk industries necessitates addressing gender-based challenges that impact workforce ergonomics, productivity and retention. This study validates the workplace gender challenge questionnaire (WGCQ), an instrument designed to assess gender-related occupational challenges encountered by female officers in the maritime industry. <i>Methods.</i> Study 1 examined the construct validity of the WGCQ through exploratory factor analysis. Study 2 confirmed the factor structure using confirmatory factor analysis and tested the questionnaire's criterion-related validity by correlating its dimensions with the job-related emotional exhaustion scale. <i>Results.</i> Three key dimensions of gender-based occupational challenges were identified: gender inequality, work-family conflict and feeling of inadequacy - all of which are critical determinants of workplace safety, job strain and ergonomic well-being. The results further demonstrated that gender-based disparities in occupational environments contribute to psychosocial stressors, which may increase emotional exhaustion, work-related fatigue and ergonomic inefficiencies. <i>Conclusion.</i> The validated WGCQ provides a standardized framework for assessing these challenges, supporting the development of industry-specific interventions aimed at promoting inclusive workplace policies, ergonomic improvements and occupational health strategies. This instrument can be adapted for use in other male-dominated industries where gender disparities impact workplace safety, job performance and employee well-being.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"552-560"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145253393","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Comparative analysis of oxidative stress resulting from heavy metal occupational exposure among green space workers.","authors":"Pourya Ahmadi Jalaldehi, Zahra Beigzadeh, Monireh Khadem, Nasim Farahmand Derav, Ziba Veisi Malekshahi, Mahmoud Heidari, Kamal Azam, Seyed Jamaleddin Shahtaheri","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2572184","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2572184","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives.</i> Occupational exposure to heavy metals has emerged as a significant public health threat. These metals can induce oxidative stress, a significant risk for green space workers due to frequent exposure to air pollutants in urban areas. Even with these high-risk levels, exposure to heavy metals among this group is understudied. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of exposure to nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and manganese (Mn) on oxidative stress among these workers. <i>Methods</i>. Air samples were taken from 88 male participants for Ni, Pb and Mn analysis using NIOSH-7300. Urine samples were taken for heavy metal and 8-hydroxy-2<sup>'</sup>-deoxyguanosine (8-OHDG) biomonitoring. <i>Results</i>. The exposed population of green space workers showed significantly elevated levels of airborne Ni and Pb (<i>p</i> ≤ 0.001) and urinary Mn and Ni (<i>p</i> ≤ 0.001) compared with a control group of office workers. The exposed population also had elevated urinary 8-OHDG levels, indicating increased oxidative stress. The strong correlation and regression analysis (<i>R</i><sup>2</sup> = 0.7964) confirm that metal exposure had a significant effect on oxidative stress. <i>Conclusion</i>. The study underscores the occupational risk of heavy metal exposure in outdoor settings, emphasizing the need for effective health and safety policies despite limitations such as sample size and city-specific focus.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"647-657"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145641257","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sevil Çirakoğlu Kelleci, Bülent Mertoğlu, Melih Engin
{"title":"The mediating role of emotional intelligence in the adoption of technologies used in occupational health and safety.","authors":"Sevil Çirakoğlu Kelleci, Bülent Mertoğlu, Melih Engin","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2572189","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2572189","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives</i>. This study evaluated occupational health and safety prevention and control technologies (OHS-PCTs) within the scope of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology-2 in the context of preventing occupational accidents and diseases and supporting safe behavior changes. <i>Methods</i>. The data collected from this study using OHS-PCT tools, which included 607 employees, were analyzed using descriptive statistics, normality tests, item analyses, correlation analyses, confirmatory factor analysis, reliability analysis and mediation methods. <i>Results</i>. The findings revealed that emotional intelligence (EQ) partially mediated the effects of the sub-dimensions of the OHS-PCT tool acceptance and use models, such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation, price value and habituation, on behavioral intention. The effective adoption and use of OHS-PCT tools in reducing workplace risks depended on their technical features and employees' attitudes, intentions and behaviors. <i>Conclusions</i>. The study reveals the role of EQ, which interacts with psychological and emotional processes in the workplace, in enhancing OHS-PCT acceptance and safety performance. This study fills an important gap in the existing literature on the role of EQ in adopting OHS-PCT to prevent occupational accidents and diseases. This provides a new and holistic perspective to this field.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"658-672"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145507788","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Clara Rodríguez-Gude, Yaiza Taboada-Iglesias, Margarita Pino-Juste
{"title":"Prevention of cervical and mandibular dysfunction in wind musicians: a randomized controlled trial.","authors":"Clara Rodríguez-Gude, Yaiza Taboada-Iglesias, Margarita Pino-Juste","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2564526","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2564526","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives.</i> Playing a wind instrument requires activation of the orofacial musculature. There is a relationship between the temporomandibular joint, the cervical musculature and the posture of the head. Few musicians report receiving specific information about oral health related to instrumental practice. This study aimed to analyse the effects of a preventive exercise programme on posture, range of motion, myofascial trigger points, muscle activation and craniocervical pain in wind players. <i>Methods</i>. Participants were university woodwind and brass performance students. The experimental group (14 females and 15 males aged 21.4 ± 1.7 years) performed an exercise programme aimed at improving the mobility and musculature of the cervical spine and temporomandibular joint. The control group (11 females and 9 males aged 23.7 ± 4.9 years) received no intervention. Both groups underwent a physical assessment and questionnaire before and after the 12-week intervention. <i>Results</i>. The experimental group experienced increased sagittal head angle and cervical flexion-extension mobility and decreased their cervical pain and trapezius activation at rest. In addition, the prevalence of pain in the last month as well as neck pain decreased. <i>Conclusions.</i> With the implementation of a specific exercise programme, wind players improved their cervical mobility, with less pain and more relaxed upper trapezius muscles in rest.<b>Trial registration:</b> ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05277649.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"601-608"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145313835","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jiayu Zhang, Zhuoling Yu, Jiahao Yao, Guangming Yang, Yun Su
{"title":"Investigating the mechanical behavior of anti-impact airbag fabrics: a structural design approach.","authors":"Jiayu Zhang, Zhuoling Yu, Jiahao Yao, Guangming Yang, Yun Su","doi":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2542035","DOIUrl":"10.1080/10803548.2025.2542035","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Objectives</i>. This study introduces a cutting-edge approach to enhance safety protection through the innovative structural design of anti-impact cushion airbag fabrics, with significant implications for the clothing industry and sports safety. <i>Methods</i>. A comprehensive analysis of 36 distinct airbag structures was proposed, systematically varying chamber dimensions, spacing, initial air pressure and fabric types to optimize impact resistance. <i>Results</i>. Reduced chamber size amplifies energy absorption and dispersion, enhancing fabrics' cushioning efficiency. Increased chamber spacing correlates with decreased strain rate, suggesting enhanced structural integrity. Higher initial air pressure within airbags enhances cushioning capacity, achieving a minimum maximum strain of 93.32% at 28 kPa. Furthermore, polyvinyl chloride mesh outperforms nylon (thermoplastic polyurethane-coated) fabric in cushioning, exhibiting a thicker final thickness and faster strain rate under increasing external forces. The critical impact of chamber side length and fabric type on the mean maximum strain was pinpointed. The optimal configuration of a 20-mm chamber side length and 10-mm spacing was identified as providing the most effective cushioning performance, with maximum stress peak value differences of 2.71% at 371.0 kPa and 4.31% at 405.6 kPa. <i>Conclusion</i>. These findings lay a scientific groundwork for developing next-generation airbag fabrics and open avenues for innovative industrial applications.</p>","PeriodicalId":47704,"journal":{"name":"International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics","volume":" ","pages":"387-399"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2026-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144974287","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}