Health Standards Research Articles

Health, safety and environmental risk assessment tool applied to site selection for geological hydrogen storage in saline aquifers

Hydrogen (H2) emerges as a pivotal player in the transition to renewable energy sources. To address the seasonal fluctuations in energy dynamics, underground storage emerges as the most efficient approach, and saline aquifers within sedimentary basins as promising repositories for substantial H2 volumes. However, this potential storage solution remains relatively unexplored. Conducting a comprehensive health, safety, and environment (HSE) risk assessment is vital for the technological advancement and public acceptance of geological H2 storage sites. This study introduces a methodology designed to select and classify potential formations based on their HSE risks, offering a safety-oriented approach to identifying suitable storage sites. The proposed methodology underwent testing in two deep saline aquifers located in distinct geological contexts within the Iberian Peninsula. The aim of this study is to establish a foundation for further investigations and implementation of geological H2 storage sites while ensuring safety and adhering to environmental and health standards.

Ghosts in the machine: Black feminist and queer critiques of reproductive justice in Finland

We discuss reproductive justice in the context of Finland, a Nordic welfare state often considered as having achieved exceptionally high ethical standards in reproductive health and overall justice. Every now and then, however, this reproduction is interrupted by ghosts in the machine: the problems, past and present, of marginalised, racialised, and/or otherwise non-normative people whose presences provoke specific Finnish hauntings, seething presences of reproductive injustice that suggest something is to be done. Instead of offering data analysis, this article aims to envision transformative reproductive justice futures through processual, collaborative theory development. This study uses an intersectional lens to understand how interlocking systems of oppression shape our lived experiences through an interdisciplinary, ethical analysis that suggests that what is required to resolve such hauntings is moral vigilance and care for a consistent reproductive justice orientation in global solidarity. Specifically in Finland, it requires the willingness to disavow the imperative to protect Finnish whiteness and active and meaningful solidarity across differences. Building on Black feminist and queer thought, we urge queer white people who may be tempted to become enfolded by homonationalism to take a more encompassing view of reproductive justice for a more sustainable welfare state ethic.

Practices of Trans-National Corporations: The Need to Change Global Economic and Political Norms; Comment on "National Public Health Surveillance of Corporations in Key Unhealthy Commodity Industries – A Scoping Review and Framework Synthesis"

Trans-national corporations (TNCs) are recognised as having an adverse impact on public health through the marketing and sale of unhealthy products. In addition to this some of their practices affect health, including taxation avoidance, lobbying politicians to gain favourable legislative and regulatory environments for their operations, and failure to abide by occupational health and safety standards. We argue that while considering the individual practices of commercial actors is crucial the true public health harms are only evident when the synergistic impacts of the practices are considered. We also note that the practices are supported by a global economic and political system which operates in the favour of commercial actors rather than the health of people and the planet. Consequently there needs to be a norm change by which norms and power are shifted away from commercial interests and externalities of commercial practices are no longer outsourced to the public purse.

Occupational Health and Safety Challenges Faced by Caregivers and the Respective Interventions to Improve their Wellbeing

This research aimed to identify the occupational health and safety issues in caregivers' workplaces: physical hazards, psychological demands, and organisational dimensions. This concerned broad physical dangers for workers, including musculoskeletal diseases, infection risks, toxic materials and substances, fatigue, and extended working hours. Additionally, the existing works explored the impact of psychological factors such as emotional exhaustion, compassion stress, burnout, stress, anxiety, and even secondary traumatisation on caregivers. Furthermore, it analysed the systematic issues related to workplace violence, lack of personnel, poor training and professional development, and having fewer protective gear and safety measures. The research has illustrated various interventions and practices that might enhance occupational safety and caregivers' wellbeing. These include organisational policies and procedures, such as establishing safe operating procedures, ensuring adequate protective gear is supplied to workers, and promoting a healthy company culture with efficient support networks. Risk prevention measures in this subdivision include safe patient handling procedures recognised as necessary in reducing physical risks, ergonomic workstation and equipment design, and stretching and exercise promotion. Moreover, the study revealed that while mental support and wellbeing were deemed essential for the workforce, which includes EAP, stress control, and mental toughness, seminars, as well as support groups, were considered insufficiently developed. The study finally demonstrated the importance of policy and legal advocacy based on enhancing occupational health and wellness standards, better workers' compensation and benefits, and raising public awareness.

Religious dress in the healthcare setting: Unpacking legal arguments and balancing individual rights

This article explores the complex debate surrounding healthcare providers seeking to express their religious beliefs through the wearing of religious attire considering critical legal, ethical, and practical aspects. Drawing insights from the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights and European Court of Justice, it sheds light on the implications for healthcare settings. The study highlights the sensitivity of the healthcare context, where specific arguments surface, such as the debated significance of religious neutrality given the vulnerability of patients and concerns about health and safety. Difficulties may arise when patients feel discomfort when treated by visibly religious healthcare providers. However, patients’ preferences regarding the religious neutrality of healthcare providers cannot be generalised, especially when considering the needs of certain minoritised communities. Furthermore, questions can be raised about the admissibility of potentially accommodating prejudice through prohibitions on religious dress. The article further examines hygiene and safety arguments used by healthcare institutions to restrict religious attire, arguing that while health and safety standards are crucial, scientific support for outright bans is limited, especially considering the possibility of reasonable adjustments. The central theme is the necessity for balanced considerations while upholding religious freedom and prioritising patient care, with particular emphasis going on the idea that the needs of patients cannot be generalised.

Comprehensive design and performance validation of a wind tunnel for advanced respirable dust deposition investigations

This study presents the comprehensive design and performance validation of a wind tunnel specifically developed for advanced investigations into respirable dust deposition pertinent to coal mining environments. The design integrates a constant particle delivery system engineered to maintain uniform particle dispersion, which is critical for replicating real-world conditions in coal mines. Our methodology involved using ANSYS Fluent for the design and optimization of a blowing-type wind tunnel, with a focus on controlling turbulence levels and minimizing pressure drops, which are crucial for accurate dust behaviour simulation. The core of our research emphasizes the deployment of the Aerosol Lung Deposition Apparatus (ALDA) alongside a custom dust injection system to measure particle distributions within the test section. This setup enabled us to simulate the inhalation of coal dust particles, providing a realistic scenario for assessing potential hazards to miners. Validation of the tunnel’s performance was achieved through extensive testing with dust sensors and a hot-wire anemometer, which verified the airflow velocity and turbulence against the initial design specifications. The findings affirm the wind tunnel's capability to effectively model dust deposition and its impacts, thereby offering opportunities for enhancing miner safety and health standards.

Efektivitas Pelatihan Keselamatan Kerja di Konstruksi Dan Peran Manajemen dalam Meningkatkan Kepatuhan K3 ; Literatur Review

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of safety training programs in the construction sector and the role of management in enhancing compliance with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards through a literature review. The research employs a literature study method, gathering data from 20 articles indexed in Sinta and Scopus between 2018 and 2023. Conducted over two months (June and July 2024), the study identifies the most effective training methods for improving OHS compliance. It also highlights the managerial role in ensuring that safety training is well adopted and implemented by workers on-site. The findings reveal that from 2018 to 2023, the implementation of OHS across various sectors has shown significant progress, particularly with the adoption of advanced technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, gaps in understanding and applying OHS, especially in SMEs and construction, persist, with a need for increased awareness and comprehension. A more proactive managerial role and the integration of smart technologies are crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of OHS training and worker safety. Future research should explore the broader application of VR and IoT in various sectors and assess the long-term effectiveness of OHS training programs supported by these technologies. Further studies are needed to address the challenges in implementing OHS in SMEs and construction to achieve higher safety standards

Clinical, epidemiological and dental characterization of children with congenital heart diseases

Objective: to characterize the clinical, dental and epidemiological profile of children with congenital heart disease followed at the dental outpatient clinic of a Maternal and Child University Hospital in the city of São Luís/MA, Brazil. Methods: The present study had a descriptive, retrospective and quantitative nature. Data collection was carried out by analyzing the medical records of patients seen from January 2017 to December 2019, aged 0 to 12 years and of both sexes. Results: The majority of patients were male (51.4%), from the city of São Luís and metropolitan region (52.9%), self-declared mixed race (62.9%). Acyanotic congenital heart diseases were the most prevalent (81.4%) and half of the patients (50%) had already had an episode of toothache. The use of fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush was observed in almost all patients (90%), with the highest frequency of tooth brushing being twice a day (44.3%). Caries disease was the most prevalent oral clinical manifestation (61.4%). Conclusion: The importance of maintaining an adequate standard of oral health and its influence on the general systemic condition of these patients is reaffirmed. It is suggested that more studies be carried out in order to deepen knowledge about this population.

A Study on the Use of Personal Protective Equipment among Construction Workers in Türkiye

This study examines the habits and attitudes of construction sector employees in Türkiye regarding the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). A comprehensive face-to-face survey was conducted with 398 randomly selected employees from small- and medium-sized construction companies across various regions of Türkiye. The survey aimed to identify the frequency of PPE usage and the factors influencing its use and to provide actionable suggestions for improving PPE compliance. The results indicate that while a majority of workers recognize the importance of PPE, actual usage rates are inconsistent. Key factors affecting PPE use include the ergonomics and comfort of the equipment as well as worker perceptions and attitudes. Notably, the study found that the discomfort associated with PPE and the belief that it slows down work pace are significant barriers to its regular use. Additionally, the research highlights the need for a robust punishment–reward system to enforce PPE compliance and suggests that more stringent legislative measures are required to enhance occupational health and safety (OHS) standards in the construction industry. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a detailed analysis of PPE usage in the Turkish construction sector and offering practical recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders. Implementing these suggestions can lead to improved worker safety and reduced occupational accidents.

Heterogeneous empathic reactions and their associations with adherence and prosocial behaviors during a pandemic

AbstractThe present research utilized the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic as a case study to explore the motives driving individuals to adhere to recommended health standards. One month into the first lockdown and eight months before the availability of vaccinations, a large sample of 1,263 individuals completed measures of empathic concern and personal distress in response to a person who contracted the virus. In addition, we measured their COVID-related behaviors, relating to benefitting another person (i.e., donation), the self (i.e., physical hygiene), or both self and other (i.e., physical distancing). Consistent with the Empathy-Altruism Hypothesis (Batson et al., 2015), we found that individuals who experience higher empathic concern, maintain greater physical distance and physical hygiene and act more generously. We further found that individuals who experienced high personal distress were less likely to act generously, albeit more likely to maintain personal hygiene and physical distance. These findings suggest that compliance with health recommendations can be encouraged by eliciting empathic concern or personal distress. Yet, compliance per se is not prosocial behavior. Any intervention aiming to increase prosocial motivation should focus on enhancing empathic concern while minimizing personal distress.

Use of the TOPSIS method for hydro-chemical classification of some bottled waters marketed in Algeria

The bottled water market in Algeria has experienced significant expansion in recent years, driven by increased demand and the growing number of production units. Although the quality of these waters generally meets health standards, notable variations remain in terms of mineral composition and organoleptic characteristics. To refine the assessment of this quality, this study proposes an innovative methodological approach based on the TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) technique. This method allows ranking alternatives based on their proximity to an ideal solution, taking into account criteria such as hardness, nitrate content, mineralization, and the hydro-chemical nature of the waters. The quality of the studied waters varies according to the analyzed parameters, and the importance of the criteria is determined by their impact on the potability and taste of the waters. Hardness is considered essential, followed by mineralization and hydro-chemical nature, while nitrate content is the most crucial criterion due to potential health risks. A detailed ranking of the different brands available on the Algerian market has been established. The results reveal a great diversity of profiles, with no brand systematically standing out from the others.

Innovating for impact: Standards and assessments as a catalyst for safer, integrated, people-centred care.

In today's evolving healthcare landscape, leaders must innovate and collaborate to ensure safe, accessible, and high-quality care. Addressing complex issues like climate change, workforce resiliency crises, and the erosion of public trust, alongside equity and inclusive services, is critical. This article offers insights into the role of quality standards and assessment programs as catalysts for innovation and future collective impact. Using examples from Health Standards Organization and Accreditation Canada, it illustrates how these levers of change enable leaders to improve patient and workforce safety, advance integrated care, and strengthen the health of communities. Embracing people-centred and evidence-informed solutions to enable new mindsets and ways of working lays the foundation for sustainable, resilient learning health systems.

Safety and behavior of implantable electronic devices during cremation

BackgroundThe current standard of practice for cremating patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) is surgical explantation before cremation to mitigate the risk of device explosion. This surgery may conflict with patient or family beliefs, whereas cremation of CIEDs may create occupational hazards. ObjectiveThis study sought to establish an ex vivo model for screening CIED behavior during cremation. MethodsSeven CIEDs underwent testing including projectile/sound testing, impact testing, and gas analysis. In the projectile test, devices were heated until thermal failure (explosion) and filmed with a high-speed camera and microphone. For impact testing, brick structures were built to assess damage after explosion. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry identified released gases. Findings were compared with occupational health standards, where available. ResultsThe implantable loop recorder and leadless pacemaker produced minimal kinetic energy and impact risk with thermal failure. The remaining devices demonstrated explosive disintegration at thermal temperatures <500°C. The pacemakers and implantable cardiac defibrillators produced sound levels >120 dB and resulted in damage to brick structures. Small quantities of benzene and hydrogen fluoride were produced but at quantities within acceptable occupational exposure limits in a cremation chamber. ConclusionAll tested CIEDs experienced explosion at temperatures below crematorium standards. The smallest devices produced minimal risk of damage or injury, suggesting that they may safely remain in situ during cremation, whereas the larger devices produced more kinetic energy, testing chamber damage, and louder explosions, suggesting potential risk with cremation. Cadaveric testing in full-sized cremation chambers is required to determine real-world risk.

The role of HSE risk assessments in mitigating occupational hazards and infectious disease spread: A public health review

The intercession of Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) risk assessments with public health strategy is crucial in mitigating occupational hazards and controlling the spread of infectious diseases. This review examines the role of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) risk assessments in mitigating occupational hazards and controlling the spread of infectious diseases, with a focus on public health implications. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive risk assessments in identifying and managing workplace hazards, including both physical and psychosocial risks. It discusses the integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and big data analytics, to enhance the predictive capabilities of HSE risk assessments. The review also explores the necessity of ethical considerations in the application of these technologies, emphasizing transparency, privacy, and accountability. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of coordinated efforts between industries and public health authorities, especially in the context of infectious disease outbreaks like COVID-19. Policy recommendations include the development of robust regulations, the promotion of industry-public health collaboration, and the provision of support for small and medium-sized enterprises. The review identifies gaps in current research and suggests future directions, such as longitudinal studies on the effectiveness of HSE interventions and the inclusion of psychosocial factors in risk assessments. By addressing these gaps and implementing the proposed recommendations, policymakers and industry stakeholders can significantly enhance workplace safety and health standards, ultimately protecting workers and promoting public health resilience.

Gambaran Sanitasi Sekolah Dasar Inpres Palsatu dan Sekolah Dasar Negeri Palsatu pada Kelurahan Manutapen Kecamatan Alak Kota Kupang

School sanitation, including the provision of clean water, toilet facilities, hand washing with soap (CTPS), waste bin management, has a big impact. When school sanitation facilities and infrastructure do not meet health standards, lack of Clean and Healthy Living Behavior, as well as lack of sanitation management schools, has negative impact on student health. The aim of the research to describe the sanitation situation at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu using descriptive research methods. The research was conducted in January-February 2024 with a sample of 30 students and principals from each school. The results of research show that condition of clean water supply facilities at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu meets requirements with percentage of 80% and 100%, the condition of latrines at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu does not meet requirements with percentage of 45.45% and 36.36%, the condition of CTPS at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu do not meet requirements with a percentage of 33%, Conditions of waste disposal facilities at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu o not meet requirements with percentage of 20%, The behavior of using latrines for urinating/defecating at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu does not meet requirements with percentages of 54.44% and 55.55%. CTPS behavior at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu meets requirements with percentage of 82% and 78%. Waste management behavior at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu does not meet requirements with percentage of 33.33% and 26.66%. Sanitation management at SDI Palsatu and SDN Palsatu is good with percentage of 71.42% and 85.71%.

Exploring the implementation of national health and social care standards in Ireland: A qualitative descriptive study.

National health and social care standards are complex, quality improvement interventions. Standards typically describe a process and/or outcome of safe, quality, person-centred care according to best evidence. Currently, there are 11 national standards that apply to diverse services in Ireland including residential centres, acute hospitals and rehabilitation and community inpatient healthcare services. A better understanding of contextual factors influencing implementation will inform decision-making when selecting implementation strategies to enhance the implementation of standards. To explore experiences of implementing national health and social care standards and secondly, to identify enablers and barriers to implementation with stakeholders from across multiple levels of the health system. A qualitative descriptive study. We conducted six focus groups and eight individual interviews from October to November 2021 with stakeholders at system level (n = 14), organizational level (n = 14) and individual level (n = 10). Focus groups and interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Six themes were generated; (1) Top-down, bottom-up, a team approach: everybody together, we are all involved, we are all responsible, (2) Support tools: accessible tools and bite-size material pertaining to standards will support us to implement standards, (3) Empower with knowledge: increase awareness and understanding of standards, make them relatable in practice so we can make sense of them, (4) A system-wide malaise: we do not have the bandwidth to implement standards, (5) Follow the leader: we need a lead person at every level to inspire implementation, (6) A bi-directional influence: we know inspections drive quality improvements but we still feel trepidation around inspection outcomes. Key enablers identified related to teamwork, support tools, leadership and inspections. Key barriers related to workforce issues, a lack of awareness of standards and fear of inspection outcomes. Our findings can be incorporated into strategies to support implementation of standards, ultimately for the benefit of service-users. The enablers and barriers described in this study reflect the importance of organizational factors in the implementation of standards. Interdisciplinary teams can infer from these findings, which enablers and barriers apply to their own context. These findings can inform decision-making when selecting strategies that can be effective in supporting the implementation of standards. We have adhered to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) guidelines. No patient or public contribution.

Improving oral health screening and dental referrals for patients with diabetes in a community health clinic.

Oral health screening and access to dental care in adults with diabetes lead to improved health outcomes and quality of life. Patients with barriers to accessing health services have a greater risk of poor medical and dental outcomes. People with diabetes are more likely to have periodontal disease and less likely to visit a dentist. Oral screening and dental referrals were not being done at a community health clinic in Plano, Texas. The aim of this 6-month quality-improvement project was to increase oral health screenings in adults with diabetes from 0% to 80%; subaim was to increase access to dental services by increasing referrals from 0% to 50%. Adults with diabetes without insurance or dental care in the past 12 months were eligible for the project ( n = 263). Outcome measures were tracked using a longitudinal chart. Eligible patients were screened and referred to a dental office with an income-based financial assistance program using Plan-Do-Study-Act methodology. Staff education, referral order set, and follow-up calls were additional processes implemented. Fifty-two percent of eligible patients were screened, 35.9% were referred to dental services, and 17.7% of those referred established care with dental clinic. Interventions were successful in improving access to dental care, although target goal was not met. Creating systems that facilitate interdisciplinary care improved health equity and standards of health in chronic disease.

Implementation of the Physica Education Curriculum and Physical Literacy of the College Students in China

With the rapid economic development and improved living standards in China, health and physical activity have gained increasing importance. Physical Education (PE) courses, as a vital component of higher education, play a crucial role in cultivating well-rounded talents with robust physical health. However, the current implementation of PE curricula faces numerous challenges, including inadequate university emphasis, imperfect facilities, weak faculty strength, monotonous teaching content, and outdated teaching methods, resulting in unsatisfactory physical literacy outcomes among college students. Meanwhile, factors such as changing lifestyles, academic and employment pressures, and misconceptions about sports further hinder the improvement of physical literacy. This study aims to explore the relationship between PE curriculum implementation and physical literacy cultivation among college students, propose targeted improvement suggestions based on assessments and analyses of the current status, and delve into the cultivation mechanisms and development patterns to optimize PE courses and enhance college students' physical literacy. Theoretically, this research will enrich the theoretical framework of physical education; practically, it will promote the all-round development of college students, elevate their overall quality and competitiveness, and contribute to China's modernization drive.

Recent approaches of regulatory perspectives for the registration of drugs in southern states in India

Recent approaches in regulatory perspectives for the registration of drugs in Southern states of India have been characterized by a focus on enhancing efficiency, transparency, and safety in the drug approval process. This involves the adoption of stringent regulatory frameworks aligned with international standards to ensure the quality, efficacy, and safety of pharmaceutical products. One significant development is the implementation of electronic submission systems for the registration of drugs, streamlining the application process and reducing administrative burdens for regulators and pharmaceutical companies. Additionally, there has been an emphasis on strengthening post-marketing surveillance mechanisms to monitor the safety and efficacy of drugs once they are in the market, enabling prompt identification and mitigation of potential risks or adverse reactions. Collaborative efforts between regulatory authorities, industry stakeholders, and healthcare professionals have also been encouraged to facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity building in regulatory compliance and pharmacovigilance. Overall, these recent approaches reflect a concerted effort to uphold public health standards and ensure access to safe and effective medications for the population of Southern states in India.

Ergonomics, Health, and Perceptions about Remote Domestic Workposts: Study in Areas of City of João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil.

Home office (HO) stands out as one of the most promising and popular forms of teleworking, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, many companies want to implement or maintain this working method, given its numerous advantages. However, there are adverse effects that are mainly related to physical and mental health. This article presents ergonomic analyses of HOs in neighborhoods considered heat islands. Temperature levels, extreme low-frequency non-ionizing radiation (ELF-NIR), illuminance, physical layout characteristics, and physiological parameters of teleworkers were measured. The results reveal that 92% of these professionals work 6 to 8 h daily with an ambient temperature between 25 and 30 °C, illumination levels in the range 11.20-290 Lux, and ELF-NIR > 0.4 µT. The majority of teleworkers are overweight (BMI > 24.9), and some of them have blood pressure higher than average values (129 mmHg for systolic and 84 mmHg for diastolic) in addition to a reduction in the number of red blood cells and hematocrits. Symptoms such as burning sensation, dryness, tired eyes, redness, itching, and photophobia (light sensitivity) show a 68.95% similarity. These HOs do not meet the required ergonomic and health standards.