Fish Processing Workers Research Articles

Asthma Among Manitoba Workers: Results from the Manitoba Occupational Disease Surveillance System

BackgroundThis study characterized the risk of new-onset asthma among workers in Manitoba, Canada. MethodsAccepted time loss claims from the Workers' Compensation Board of Manitoba from 2006 to 2019, containing workers' occupations and industries, were linked with administrative health data from 1996 to 2020. After restricting the cohort to the first claim per person in an occupation and applying age and coverage exclusions, the cohort comprised 142,588 person–occupation combinations. Asthma cases were identified if workers had at least two medical records for asthma (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, 493) within a 12-month period, within the 2 years before 3 years after cohort entry. New-onset asthma was identified using a 3-year washout period. Asthma hazard ratios by occupation and industry were estimated using Cox proportional hazard models, adjusted for age, and stratified by sex. ResultsIncreased asthma risk was observed among workers with known asthmagen exposure, including male veterinary and animal health technologists and technicians (hazard ratio 3.97, 95% CI 1.78–8.86), male fish processing workers (3.40, 1.53–7.57), and male machining tool operators (2.91, 1.72–4.92). Increases were also observed for occupations with unknown or suspected allergens, including gas station attendants, drivers, mail/postal and related workers, public works and maintenance laborers, mine laborers and crane operators, and some indoor worker groups. Decreased risks were observed among nurses and residential and commercial installer and servicers. ConclusionThis database linkage study successfully identified occupations and industries with known sensitizing agents or irritants, and several occupation and industries not typically associated with work-related asthma, warranting further investigation.

Effect of Structured Exercise-Based Intervention on Upper Quadrant Dysfunction among Fish Processing Workers with Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are one of the major causes of morbidity, which affect particularly the upper quadrant in industrial settings and so upset the quality of life (QoL). The influence of the protocol of exercise-based programs at the workplace on the well-being of the worker is contradictory. The objective of the study was to find the effect of the structured exercise-based intervention on upper quadrant dysfunction among fish processing workers with work-related MSDs. The intervention group (n = 91) participated in an individually tailored structured exercise-based intervention (SEBI) program for three months, which consisted of stretching, strengthening, and active exercises. The control group (n = 93) was instructed to continue routine daily activities. The outcome measures of the cluster-randomized controlled trial were Neck Disability Index (NDI), Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and Short Form-36, used to evaluate at baseline, eighth, and twelfth week. The data were analyzed by repeated analysis of variance and Student's t-tests. The results for the overall perception of upper quadrant dysfunction showed statistically significant differences (P < 0.0001) for NDI, DASH, and VAS. Further, we obtained a significant difference in QoL between the intervention and control groups for physical and psychological health sub-domains. SEBI effectively enhanced the general health of fish processing workers by showing improvements in the measures of NDI, DASH, VAS, and QoL. Hence, SEBI can be recommended in the fish processing industries to achieve potential impact on upper quadrant dysfunction and improve the QoL.

Unlocking the Power of Health Safety and Welfare Practices: Exploring the Impact on Organizational Citizenship Behavior in Bangladesh’s Fish Processing Industry

Abstract Purpose: This study explores the relationship between Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) practices and Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) among fish processing workers in Bangladesh. It seeks to understand how OHS practices impact employees’ voluntary, extra-role behaviors and contribute to organizational well-being. Methods/Design/Approach: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among a sample of fish processing workers in Bangladesh. Data were collected using structured questionnaires that assessed vital variables, including OHS practices, OCB, and demographic information. Statistical analyses, including correlation and multiple regression, were employed through SPSS to examine the associations between OHS practices and OCB. Findings: The findings of this study reveal several significant relationships; notably, health and safety policies and communication, health and safety rules, health and safety resource and training, and workplace welfare management were essential predictors of organizational citizenship behavior, highlighting the critical role of these organization health safety practices in fostering positive organizational citizenship behavior. Practical Implications: These findings hold valuable practical implications for organizations in the fish processing industry and beyond. Organizations can enhance their workplace safety policies, regulations, and training programs by recognizing the positive impact of OHS practices on OCB. Additionally, investing in workplace welfare measures can promote a culture of voluntary contributions to the organization, ultimately benefiting employees and employers. Originality: This study contributes to the literature by shedding light on the relationship between OHS practices and OCB in a specific and underexplored context: the fish processing industry in Bangladesh. It underscores the significance of OHS practices in driving positive workplace behaviors and organizational outcomes, enriching the body of knowledge on this subject.

Effects of storms on fisheries and aquaculture: An Icelandic case study on climate change adaptation

ABSTRACT Climate change research on fisheries is often focused on changes in species abundance and distribution, yet the impacts of severe weather events are also important. Climate models indicate that storm frequency and intensity may increase in the North Atlantic; however, uncertainties remain and consequences in Iceland are not well studied. This research represents a first attempt to understand local to regional implications of storminess on Icelandic fisheries industries. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the analysis (1) provides regional future wind speed projections in Iceland and surroundings under the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 3–7.0 scenario, (2) documents current local experiences using exploratory interviews with various stakeholders in fisheries and aquaculture, and (3) explores research priorities for understanding climate-change adaptations in coastal communities. Projections show that whereas areas of the west, south, and east of Iceland may experience fewer storm days, the region north/northeast of Iceland features an increase in storm days. Potential adaptations include a flexible management system that does not punish fishers for lost time due to bad weather, cooperative market arrangements among sectors, and job security considerations for fishers and fish processing workers. Future projections are needed for other variables such as precipitation, and future socioeconomic studies should address the predictions and impacts of storminess.

An ergonomic evaluation of the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among fish processing workers of Suri

Introduction and Aim: Fish processing industries have been showing tremendous growth in recent years. Various modern processing technologies and equipment are incorporated in the fish processing plants. Some of the tasks in fish processing plants yet involve manual handling. Prolong working in wet environment in awkward confined posture leads to the development of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The current study aimed at evaluating the prevalence of work-related MSDs among fish processing workers.&#x0D; &#x0D; Materials and Methods: A total of thirty subjects from fish processing plant between 28-40 years were selected randomly from a fish processing plant in Suri of West Bengal. A modified Nordic questionnaire was applied for the assessment of the discomfort or pain of the processing workers. The study included postural analysis utilising the standardized Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) tool.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results: The present study showed that 60% of the fish processing workers complained discomfort or pain in different parts of the body majorly in neck, wrist and lower back respectively. The RULA score of posture adopted during job tasks majorly scaling, trimming, filleting of fishes indicated medium risk of musculoskeletal injury and sharpening of blade involved low risk of developing MSDs.&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusion: It may be concluded that neck and lower back are the major occupational health issues prevailing in fish processing workers. Prolong working in awkward posture and in repetitive manner led to increased risk of developing work- related MSDs.

Kehidupan Ibu Rumah Tangga yang Bekerja sebagai Pengolah Ikan Asin dalam Meningkatkan Sosial Ekonomi Keluarga di Pasar Belakang Kota Sibolga

The majority of people in the back market of Sibolga work as salted fish processors to fulfill the daily needs of their families. Every day the people who work there come to manage the fish caught by the fishermen become salted fish. Housewives work as salted fish processing workers in order to improve the family’s social economy. Working outside the home becomes a dual role for housewives which will have an influence on relationships with family. However, for the sake of a good social economy, housewives carry out dual roles in the hope of changing the standard of family life.

Bisnis ikan asin dan dampaknya terhadap kesejahteraan masyarakat Sungai Pauh Langsa Barat

The salted fish business is one of the businesses located in Gampong Sungai Pauh, West Langsa District, Langsa City. This study aims to determine the income and welfare of salted fish processing workers in Gampong Sungai Pauh, West Langsa District. This research is a field research with descriptive qualitative methods. The sample consisted of 15 people. Sources of data used are primary and secondary data obtained by data collection methods through observation, interviews, and documentation.With the salted fish processing, salted fish processing workers' income has increased slightly, so that the life of salted fish processing workers is helped economically, such as being able to eat three times a day, buying clothes even once a year. Salted fish processing workers can be categorized as not prosperous, but economically, salted fish processing workers are greatly helped, if before working in salted fish processing, salted fish processing workers can only eat once a day but after working in salted fish processing, salted fish processing workers can eat. three times a day, buy at least one set of clothes, repair the damaged walls of the house.

Work-related Symptoms and Asthma among Fish Processing Workers

ABSTRACT After observing several clinical patients with respiratory symptoms, we initiated a questionnaire survey to assess prevalence of and predictors for asthma and work-related symptoms among workers in fish processing plants. A questionnaire with items on work conditions, work-related symptoms, and respiratory symptoms/diseases was sent to 916 fish processing workers, the 1836 licenced fishermen in Sweden, and 1965 controls; of those, 43%, 57%, and 53%, respectively, responded. Risks, hazard ratios (HRs), and prevalence ratios (PRs) were calculated with Cox regression, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed. The risk of asthma among fish filleting workers was increased during the years working in the fish processing industry when compared to the other fish processing workers and controls (HR 3.6, 95% CI 1.6–8.1, adjusted for atopy, gender, and ever smoking). The filleters had an increased PR for most of the work-related respiratory symptoms investigated. All fish processing workers had a higher PR for flu-like symptoms. Use of a pressure sprayer was identified as a risk for asthma and respiratory symptoms among both fish processing workers and controls. Filleters had changed work tasks because of respiratory symptoms more often (Fisher’s exact test, p = 0.02) than other fish processing workers. In conclusion the fish filleters and pressure sprayer users reported more adult asthma and cough with phlegm compared to the other fish processing workers and controls. The use of pressure sprayers must be reduced and machinery should be completely encased to reduce workers’ exposure to bioaerosols and its effects on the respiratory tract.

Increases in Health-Related Workplace Absenteeism Among Workers in Essential Critical Infrastructure Occupations During the COVID-19 Pandemic - United States, March-April 2020.

During a pandemic, syndromic methods for monitoring illness outside of health care settings, such as tracking absenteeism trends in schools and workplaces, can be useful adjuncts to conventional disease reporting (1,2). Each month, CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) monitors the prevalence of health-related workplace absenteeism among currently employed full-time workers in the United States, overall and by demographic and occupational subgroups, using data from the Current Population Survey (CPS).* This report describes trends in absenteeism during October 2019-April 2020, including March and April 2020, the period of rapidly accelerating transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Overall, the prevalence of health-related workplace absenteeism in March and April 2020 were similar to their 5-year baselines. However, compared with occupation-specific baselines, absenteeism among workers in several occupational groups that define or contain essential critical infrastructure workforce† categories was significantly higher than expected in April. Significant increases in absenteeism were observed in personal care and service§ (includes child care workers and personal care aides); healthcare support¶; and production** (includes meat, poultry, and fish processing workers). Although health-related workplace absenteeism remained relatively unchanged or decreased in other groups, the increase in absenteeism among workers in occupational groups less able to avoid exposure to SARS-CoV-2 (3) highlights the potential impact of COVID-19 on the essential critical infrastructure workforce because of the risks and concerns of occupational transmission of SARS-CoV-2. More widespread and complete collection of occupational data in COVID-19 surveillance is required to fully understand workers' occupational risks and inform intervention strategies. Employers should follow available recommendations to protect workers' health.

Anisakis Sensitization in the Croatian fish processing workers: Behavioral instead of occupational risk factors?

We undertook the first study systematically evaluating the risk of Anisakis-sensitization in Croatian fish-processing workers and potential genetic susceptibility to anisakiasis. Anti-Anisakis IgE seroprevalence and risk factors for 600 employees of Croatian fish processing facilities and 466 blood donor controls, were assessed by indirect ELISA targeted with: recombinant Ani s 1 and Ani s 7 allergens, an Anisakis crude extract, the commercial ImmunoCAP kit, and questionnaires. Genetic susceptibility to anisakiasis was evaluated by genotypisation of human leukocytes alleles (HLA). Anti-Anisakis seropositive and a fraction of negative subjects were also assessed by ELISA and Western Blot (WB) for IgG seroprevalence to Trichinella spp. Overall, the observed anti-Anisakis seroprevalence inferred by indirect ELISA was significantly higher in fish processing workers (1.8%, 95% CI 0.9–3.3%) compared to the controls (0%, 0–0.8%). Seven out of 11 Ani s 1 and Ani s 7-positives and none of selected 65 negative sera, tested positive on whole-Anisakis extract (ImmunoCAP), whereas Anisakis crude extract ELISA detected 3.9% (2.4–6.0%) seropositives in fish processing workers, three (14%) of which showed IgE reactivity to milk proteins. The highest risk associated with Anisakis-sensitization among workers was fishing in the free time, rather than any of attributes related to the occupational exposure. Although no association was observed between anti-Anisakis seropositivity and wearing gloves or protective goggles, the majority of workers (92%) wore protective gloves, minimizing the risk for Anisakis sensitization via skin contact. Six HLA alleles within DRB1 gene were significantly associated with seropositivity under dominant, allelic or recessive models. All sera confirmed negative for anti-Trichinella spp. IgG. The study exhaustively covered almost all marine fish processing workers in Croatia, reflecting real-time Anisakis sensitization status within the industry, already under the influence of wide array of allergens.

Fish-derived low molecular weight components modify bronchial epithelial barrier properties and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines

The prevalence of fish allergy among fish-processing workers is higher than in the general population, possibly due to sensitization via inhalation and higher exposure. However, the response of the bronchial epithelium to fish allergens has never been explored. Parvalbumins (PVs) from bony fish are major sensitizers in fish allergy, while cartilaginous fish and their PVs are considered less allergenic. Increasing evidence demonstrates that components other than proteins from the allergen source, such as low molecular weight components smaller than 3 kDa (LMC) from pollen, may act as adjuvants during allergic sensitization.We investigated the response of bronchial epithelial cells to PVs and to LMC from Atlantic cod, a bony fish, and gummy shark, a cartilaginous fish. Polarized monolayers of the bronchial epithelial cell line 16HBE14o- were stimulated apically with fish PVs and/-or the corresponding fish LMC. Barrier integrity, transport of PVs across the monolayers and release of mediators were monitored.Intact PVs from both the bony and the cartilaginous fish were rapidly internalized by the cells and transported to the basolateral side of the monolayers. The PVs did not disrupt the epithelial barrier integrity nor did they modify the release of proinflammatory cytokines. In contrast, LMC from both fish species modified the physical and immunological properties of the epithelial barrier and the responses differed between bony and cartilaginous fish. While the barrier integrity was lowered by cod LMC 24 h after cell stimulation, it was increased by up to 2.3-fold by shark LMC. Furthermore, LMC from both fish species increased basolateral and apical release of IL-6 and IL-8, while CCL2 release was increased by cod but not by shark LMC.In summary, our study demonstrated the rapid transport of PVs across the epithelium which may result in their availability to antigen presenting cells required for allergic sensitization. Moreover, different cell responses to LMC derived from bony versus cartilaginous fish were observed, which may play a role in different allergenic potentials of these two fish classes.

Reporting of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Fish-Processing Workers: A Narrative Review

Background: Industrial work involving static, repetitive, and vibratory movements is associated with considerable risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Fish-processing workers are highly exposed to various occupational hazards that result in work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, literature reviews about MSDs are scarce. Therefore, we present a review of the literature on the prevalence of MSDs and the risk factors associated with fish-processing industry workers.Method: A literature search was conducted in various databases published from inception until 2018. After selection, analysis, and retrieval based on predetermined key words, inclusion, and exclusion criteria, five studies were included. Only articles published in English were considered.Results: In this review, we demonstrate that fish-processing workers are at an increased risk of MSDs. Among these risks, the prevalence of neck and shoulder injury is high. The risk factors involved include (1) beyond 45 years of age, (2) job experience exceeding 3 years, (3) repetitiveness, that is, the work of a section receiving a cycle time 25 kg ten times per day.Conclusion: The review highlights the increased rate of WMSDs reported and the considerable risk factors among fish-processing workers

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis in fish processing workers diagnosed by inhalation challenge.

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis may be caused by occupational exposure in the fish processing industry http://ow.ly/GbEf30lFnyk

Strategy to Develop Traditional Fishery Business in Implementing the Principle of Sustainable Business

The importance of sustainable development in fishery has been clearly seen in Indonesia through the existence of Law No.31 Year 2004 on Fishery. It is stated that fishery development is aimed to create job opportunities, fish farmer and fisherman welfare, and to maintain the sustainability of fishery resource and environment. Therefore, all aspects of fishery development activities, including traditional fish processing business should be based on the view of sustainable development. According to the description, the objectives of this study are: (1) to analyze traditional fish processing business; (2) to determine factors influencing one another in sustainable fishery business; and (3) to formulate strategy to improve the competence of traditional processing workers. This research was conducted through the method of survey in three regencies in Lampung Province; namely Tanggamus Regency, Pringsewu Regency, and East Lampung Regency, with a number of samples amounting to 235 respondents; later on the number of samples in each group was determined using the technique of proportional random sampling. Assessment towards the fish processing workers in sustainable traditional processing business generated quite good result since the processing workers were confident that the business developed well and sustainably. The competence of processing workers is influenced by non-formal education and entrepreneurial characteristics. The competence and implementation of extension has a direct influence, while individual characteristics of processing workers indirectly influence the sustainable traditional fishery business. Strategy to improve the competence of sustainable traditional fishery business is done by: (a) strengthening the competence of traditional fish processing workers particularly in technical and managerial aspects through the development of entrepreneurial characteristics; and (b) strengthening the extension intensity through extension method and media to create changes in behavior in running a sustainable traditional fishery business (economy, social, and environment).Keywords: Sustainable, fishery, traditional processing workers, strategy

Working Conditions, Occupational Injuries, and Health Among Filipino Fish Processing Workers in Dutch Harbor, Alaska

Working Conditions, Occupational Injuries, and Health Among Filipino Fish Processing Workers in Dutch Harbor, Alaska

Working Conditions, Occupational Injuries, and Health Among Filipino Fish Processing Workers in Dutch Harbor, Alaska.

This study explored how unique environmental conditions in Alaska influenced occupational health and safety for Filipino fish processing workers, many of whom migrated from warm locations (e.g., the Philippines, California, and Nevada). In-depth interviews were conducted with 26 Filipino workers in one commercial fish processing company in Dutch Harbor. Results indicated that cold weather interferes with workers' job performance, increasing their risk for injury and illness, whereas the community's isolation and rural nature causes loneliness and boredom, resulting in more high-risk behaviors. Other non-environmental factors affecting worker health include roommate and supervisor concerns and culture-specific practices. Findings suggest the importance of job rotation to avoid long exposures to cold temperatures, the value of a designated individual to inform workers about company and community resources that promote healthy lifestyles, and the possible utility of a joint worker-management safety committee.

Respiratory symptoms, lung functions, and exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) in two types of fish processing workers: Russian trawler fishermen and Norwegian salmon industry workers.

Respiratory outcomes and work-related factors were studied in two seafood worker populations representing different occupational environments. Levels of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO), spirometric values, prevalence of respiratory symptoms, and self-evaluated exposures were compared between 139 Norwegian salmon workers and 127 Russian trawler workers. Increased odds ratios (ORs) of shortness of breath with wheezing and prolonged cough as general respiratory symptoms were found in salmon workers, while increased ORs of work-related dry cough and running nose were found in trawler fishermen. Both worker groups ranked "cold work environment," "use of disinfectants," and "contaminated indoor air" as the first, second, and third most important causes of work-related respiratory symptoms, respectively. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels were higher in asthmatic trawler workers compared to asthmatic salmon workers. Respiratory symptoms commonly associated with obstructive airway diseases were more prevalent in salmon workers, while symptoms commonly associated with asthma and short-term effects of cold air exposure were more prevalent in trawler workers.

Ergonomic risks in fish processing workers in Atlantic Canada

Background: The aquaculture industry is growing in Canada and is particularly strong in Atlantic Canada. Workers in the fish processing industry are required to complete a variety of tasks in a typical day and there is concern for musculoskeletal disorder. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the daily operations of fish processing workers to determine any musculoskeletal concerns. Methods: The ergonomic assessment consisted of several plant visits to observe the processing line and the requirements of the workers. Video recordings were made of each stage of the assembly lines. The video data was analyzed to determine high-risk jobs and to identify areas of concern. Cumulative loading was assessed using posture matching software and the video data. A Job Strain Index (JSI), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and the revised NIOSH lifting equation were used to identify high-risk tasks. Results: The data showed that six tasks were considered high risk; sorting fish, removal of fish bones, trimming of fish, pallet loading/conveyor operation, fish processing and cleaning of the trim machine. In addition, four categories of occupational health and safety (OHS) hazard concerns were identified (physical, chemical, biological, and psychosocial). Each category was then broken into their causative agents and potential health effects on the worker. Conclusions: Several areas for improvement were identified at this seafood processing plant. Six jobs were identified as high risk and in need of intervention. Changes in pace of work, workstation height, and new equipment would also help reduce the number of musculoskeletal injuries. The issue of job rotation should also be examined to determine its impact on musculoskeletal health. Implementation of strategies to reduce musculoskeletal disorders will help to improve the health of these workers.

Fish Allergy: In Review

Globally, the rising consumption of fish and its derivatives, due to its nutritional value and divergence of international cuisines, has led to an increase in reports of adverse reactions to fish. Reactions to fish are not only mediated by the immune system causing allergies, but are often caused by various toxins and parasites including ciguatera and Anisakis. Allergic reactions to fish can be serious and life threatening and children usually do not outgrow this type of food allergy. The route of exposure is not only restricted to ingestion but include manual handling and inhalation of cooking vapors in the domestic and occupational environment. Prevalence rates of self-reported fish allergy range from 0.2 to 2.29% in the general population, but can reach up to 8% among fish processing workers. Fish allergy seems to vary with geographical eating habits, type of fish processing, and fish species exposure. The major fish allergen characterized is parvalbumin in addition to several less well-known allergens. This contemporary review discusses interesting and new findings in the area of fish allergy including demographics, novel allergens identified, immunological mechanisms of sensitization, and innovative approaches in diagnosing and managing this life-long disease.

Respiratory Symptoms in Fish Processing Workers on the Adriatic Coast of Croatia

This article describes respiratory symptoms and lung function in 98 fish processing female workers employed in a fish processing plant located on the Croatian Adriatic coast and 95 matching controls. The study included chronic and acute respiratory symptoms which developed during the shifts. Lung function measurements included forced vital capacity (FVC), one-second forced expiratory volume (FEV(1)) and maximal expiratory rates at 50 % and the last 25 % (FEF(50), FEF(25)). Chronic respiratory symptoms were significantly dominant in fish processing workers compared to controls. The most common chronic symptoms were hoarseness (57.1 %), nasal catarrh (51.0 %), chronic cough (42.9 %), chronic phlegm (34.7 %), and frequent chest cold (35.7 %). Exposed smokers and nonsmokers had a similar prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms. Acute symptoms over the work shift were high, with headache in lead (smokers: 62.5 %; nonsmokers: 56.1 %). Most of the ventilatory capacity parameters were significantly lower than predicted, FEF(25) in particular, indicating obstructive changes predominantly in the smaller airways. These findings suggest that fish processing workers are prone to developing acute and chronic respiratory symptoms as well as to lung function changes. This calls for medical and technical preventive measures to be introduced in the work environment of the fish processing plant.