Workplace Accidents Research Articles

Impact of Cardiac Surgery Scar on Heart Rupture Following a Fall from Height

Death from falls accounts for a significant number of injuries and fatalities globally, often linked to suicides, workplace accidents, or substance abuse, and rarely to homicidal causes. Injuries from falls vary based on height, impact point, and surface struck, with severe trauma often seen, including visceral ruptures, organ lacerations, and complex fractures. Even minimal external injuries can mask severe internal damage, such as multiple organ ruptures, organ tears, and large vessel lacerations. Blunt cardiac injuries, which occur in 5% to 50% of falls, are significant, especially in falls over 6 m. In 70% of the cases, cardiac rupture is observed at the level of the posterior wall of the heart and occurs due to a contusive action on the heart during the diastolic filling phase. We report a case of a 29-year-old man (weight 95 kg) who died from an 11-meter fall. He had a history of cardiac surgery for the transposition of the great vessels, and an autopsy revealed extensive cardiac rupture, likely worsened by fibrotic adhesions anchoring the heart to the pericardium. Toxicological investigations on peripheral blood showed BAC > 2.58 g/L. Heart scars, macro- and microscopically as a deposit of fibrous tissue, due to previous surgery, may have contributed to the extent of the lesion, suggesting the need for further study on post-operative tissue changes and their effects on trauma from falls.

The Transformative Impact of E-learning on Workplace Safety and Health Training in the Industry: a Comprehensive Analysis of Effectiveness, Implementation, and Future Opportunities

This study explores the transformative potential of E-learning in workplace safety and health training. This highlights the flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness of E-learning for both employers and employees. This study uses a multi-faceted approach, including literature review, case studies, expert interviews, technological assessment, and data analysis, to provide a comprehensive analysis. It also explores the use of emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in E-learning. The findings revealed that E-learning can enhance knowledge retention, reduce workplace accidents, and increase employee engagement. However, challenges such as technological barriers and resistance to new methods persist. The study concludes by recommending a gradual implementation approach, content customization, integration of emerging technologies, continuous assessment, and strategies to maintain high levels of employee engagement.

How does psychosocial safety climate affect safety behavior in the construction industry? A cross-level analysis

IntroductionThe unsafe work of construction workers directly contributes to frequent accidents in workplaces. However, the factors influencing the safety behavior of Chinese construction workers are not yet clear.MethodsData from 381 construction workers were analyzed to test our hypotheses.This study aimed to investigate the impact of psychosocial safety climate (PSC) on safety behavior through a cross-level model, focusing on the mediating role of psychological resilience and the moderating effect of safety-related stress.ResultsThe results indicated that (1) PSC was positively associated with psychological resilience and safety behavior; (2) psychological resilience mediated the relationship between PSC and safety behavior; (3) the link between PSC and safety behavior was negatively influenced by safety-related stress; and (4) all three sub-dimensions of safety-related stress moderated the effect of PSC on safety participation.DiscussionThese findings elucidate the mechanisms underlying the connection between PSC, psychological resilience, safety-related stress, and safety behavior from a multi-level perspective. Additionally, strategies for enhancing the safety behavior of construction workers were discussed.

Improving Workplace Safety and Health Through a Rapid Ergonomic Risk Assessment Methodology Enhanced by an Artificial Intelligence System

The comfort of a worker while performing any activity is extremely important. If that activity extends beyond a person’s capacity to withstand physical and psychological stress, the worker may suffer from both physical and mental ailments. Over time, if the stress persists, these conditions can become chronic diseases and can even be the cause of workplace accidents. In this research, a methodology was developed for the rapid assessment of ergonomic risks and for calculating the level of ergonomic comfort in the workplace. This methodology uses artificial intelligence through a specific algorithm and takes into account a number of factors that, when combined, can have a significant impact on workers. To achieve a more accurate simulation of a work situation or to evaluate an ongoing work situation, and to significantly correlate these parameters, we used logarithmic calculation formulas. To streamline the process, we developed software that performs these calculations, conducts a rapid assessment of ergonomic risks, estimates a comfort level, and proposes possible measures to mitigate the risks and effects on workers. To assist in diagnosing the work situation, we used a neural network with five neurons in the input layer, one hidden layer, and two neurons in the output layer. As a result, most work situations, in any industrial field, can be quickly analyzed and evaluated using this methodology. The use of this new analysis and diagnosis tool, implemented through this new research technology, is beneficial for employers and workers. Moreover, through further developments of this methodology, achieved by increasing the number of relevant input parameters for ergonomics and integrating advanced artificial intelligence systems, we aim to provide high precision in assessing ergonomic risk and calculating the level of ergonomic comfort.

The Influence of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Usage, Age, Work Tenure on Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents can reduce productivity, which occurs as a result of unsafe actions and unsafe conditions in the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of leather tanning in Magetan. Workplace accidents could be caused by workes low awareness of wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as well as factors like age and work tenure on workplace accidents in the leather tanning SMEs in Magetan 2024. The research design employed an observational analytic method with a Cross-Sectional approach. The sample size consisted 66 people out of a population of 190, selected through proportional random sampling. The variables of PPE use, age, and work tenure, which were collected through observation and interviews, were then processed and analyzed using the Spearman Correlation statistical test (r2). The results indicated that the use of PPE, including masks,gloves, and boots, was at 36,4%, the proportion of workers aged over 30 years was 54,5%, and those with a work tenure over 5 years was 59,1%. The analysis showed that PPE use (p=0.000) and age (p=0.035) had an impact on workplace accidents, with a correlation value of p=0.232 more than 0.05. The study concluded that the use of PPE and the age of workers in the leather tanning SMEs in Magetan influenced workplace accidents. It is recommended that management provide complete PPE such as masks, boots, gloves and conduct regular monitoring of PPE use conditions. Additionally, workers should use PPE according to standars while performing their duties.

Designing comprehensive workforce safety frameworks for high-risk environments: A strategic approach

High-risk industries such as oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing face significant challenges in safeguarding their workforce due to the inherent dangers of their operations. This paper presents a strategic approach to designing comprehensive workforce safety frameworks that address both personal and process safety. Personal safety focuses on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), behavior-based safety programs, and training, while process safety aims to manage operational risks such as equipment malfunctions and hazardous materials. The interdependency of these two safety pillars is essential in reducing workplace accidents and ensuring a safer operational environment. Challenges in implementing safety frameworks, such as complex operations, human factors, and technological and regulatory barriers, are also discussed. To overcome these challenges, the paper proposes a series of strategic solutions, including risk assessment, technology integration, continuous improvement, and stakeholder collaboration. By adopting these recommendations, industries can develop customized safety frameworks that protect their workforce and enhance operational efficiency. Keywords: High-Risk Industries, Workforce Safety, Personal Safety, Process Safety, Risk Assessment, Safety Frameworks.

Revolutionizing Workplace Safety Through Innovative Ergonomic Solutions in Indonesia

General Background: Workplace accidents significantly impact employee health, productivity, and organizational efficiency, necessitating effective safety and health management strategies. Specific Background: The study investigates the use of the Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD) method at PT Esprobags to improve occupational health and safety measures. Knowledge Gap: PT Esprobags faces challenges in effectively addressing employee health concerns, especially regarding health insurance and workplace conditions, despite increasing demand for safety protocols. Aims: This research aims to identify key health and safety issues affecting employees, utilizing MEAD to analyze and design solutions that mitigate workplace accidents and improve overall employee well-being. Results: The findings indicate that inadequate health insurance and infrequent health checks, along with insufficient drinking water quality and room cleanliness, are primary concerns among employees. The analysis reveals that environmental factors significantly influence employee safety, health, and performance, contributing to a 60.7% variance in the work environment's impact on safety and performance. Novelty: This study introduces a structured ergonomic approach tailored to the unique needs of the manufacturing sector, emphasizing the importance of holistic workplace assessments. Implications: PT Esprobags' implementation of the MEAD methodology can improve employee satisfaction, productivity, and safety, contributing to a broader understanding of workplace ergonomics and occupational health. Highlights: Health Concerns: Inadequate health insurance and checks impact employee well-being. Environmental Impact: Workplace conditions significantly affect safety and productivity. Implementation Benefits: MEAD enhances satisfaction and reduces workplace accidents. Keywords: workplace safety, ergonomic analysis, employee health, Macro Ergonomic Analysis and Design, occupational safety

Hubungan Pengetahuan dan Kepatuhan Penggunaan APD terhadap Kecelakaan Kerja di PT. XY

Background: Work accidents caused by human actions that do not meet safety standards are referred to as unsafe human actions, such as not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), working outside of procedures, working near moving or rotating machinery, fatigue, boredom, and so on. Meanwhile, accidents caused by unsafe environmental conditions are referred to as unsafe conditions, such as machines without safety features and the continued use of equipment that is no longer in good condition. The purpose of this research is to determine the relationship between knowledge and compliance with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and workplace accidents at PT. XY. This research method employs an observational approach with a cross-sectional design. The population in this study, taken from the Track Department of the Plant, consists of 30 workers, and the sample is the total population of 30 workers. The instruments used in this data collection are questionnaires and observations for the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as well as documentation. The research results showed that the average knowledge was poor for 16 individuals, and the average compliance was lacking for 17 individuals. Based on the bivariate analysis using Chi-Square, it was found that there is a relationship between knowledge and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) with a P value of 0.021, and there is a relationship between compliance in using PPE and workplace accidents with a P value of 0.042. The conclusion of this study is that there is a significant relationship between knowledge and compliance in using PPE concerning workplace accidents.

Oględziny miejsca wypadku przy pracy - cz. 3

This publication is the third and last part of the article systematizing the practical aspects of conducting inspections of workplace accidents. It presents in detail the issues of conducting inspections of places of this type of events. Particular atten-tion was paid to the role of the prosecutor in ensuring the proper course of this evidentiary and forensic activity. It also outlines the tasks that lie with the employer and the post-accident team appointed by him in the event of such events. Actions taken by inspectors of the National Labor Inspectorate in the event of such events are also discussed, emphasizing the need for cooperation of investigators with representatives of this service during the inspection of accident events.

Nutritional Status and Food Habits of Child Labor in Rangpur City, Bangladesh

Background: In Bangladesh, the harsh reality of child labor persists, with over 8 million children engaged in such work. This not only deprives them of their childhood but also has severe implications for their mental and physical health. This study seeks to investigate the daily food intake and nutritional status of child laborers in Rangpur City, shedding light on the broader health impacts of child labor in this region. Methods: The study employed a structured questionnaire and anthropometric measurements to assess the socioeconomic status and dietary habits of participants. Pretesting ensured questionnaire accuracy, while daily and weekly recall methods captured comprehensive food consumption data. Socioeconomic inquiries included income, education, employment, and family details, providing a holistic understanding of participants' circumstances. Results: The survey highlights that most working children are aged 12-14, predominantly employed in mechanics and sales, working long hours under precarious conditions for low wages, primarily to support their families. Despite some attending primary school and receiving employer-provided meals and medical aid, these children struggle with inadequate education and nutrition, and a high incidence of workplace accidents. Conclusion: Child laborers have often poorer nutritional status than the average person. They are not provided with a proper diet. Consequently, they are dealing with various health problems.

Robots as guardians: Industrial automation and workplace safety in China

Industrial robots can improve workplace safety by performing hazardous tasks on behalf of workers. This paper examines the impact of industrial robots on workplace safety in China. We find that a one-standard-deviation increase in robot exposure reduces annual workplace accidents and fatalities by 0.100 and 0.0133 cases per thousand population, compared to sample averages of 0.122 accidents and 0.0351 fatalities. These findings are robust to an instrumental variable strategy and various robustness checks. Our analysis of injuries in household surveys and Baidu search activities reinforces these results. Using an accounting framework, we show that the safety improvement is not driven by the mechanical effects of robot-induced employment reduction. Instead, within-occupation improvement in workplace safety plays a more crucial role.

How Safety Knowledge and Work Environment Affect Workplace Accidents: Uncovering the Role of Safety Behaviors

Workplace accidents in hospitals can arise from human or environmental factors, highlighting the necessity of implementing Hospital Occupational Safety and Health (HOSH) measures. Preliminary study at X Hospital shows that work-related accidents persist, with the majority leading to physical injuries. This study aims to observe the impact of HOSH knowledge and the work environment on nurse workplace accidents, with safety behaviors serving as a mediating factor. The research utilizes a quantitative survey method with a cross-sectional design. A total of 123 nurses participated in the study. An analysis using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was conducted to assess the statistical impact. The findings indicate that improving Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) knowledge and enhancing the work environment can significantly reduce workplace accidents. The mediating role of safety behaviors further amplifies this effect. Both HOSH knowledge and the work environment have a positive significant impact on safety behaviors, while HOSH knowledge, the work environment, and safety behaviors each have a negative significant impact on workplace accidents

Comparison of Clinical Characteristics between Responders and Non-Responders to Hamstring Stretching in Individuals with Chronic Low Back Pain.

Background/Objectives: Hamstring muscle (HM) flexibility is frequently compromised in people with chronic low back pain (CLBP), contributing to disability and leading to a less favorable recovery. In a previous article, we presented the results of a study on the immediate effect of passive HM stretching on flexibility in 90 people with CLBP. There was considerable variability in the changes after stretching. The objective of this supplementary analysis was to compare the clinical characteristics of individuals who experienced a significant improvement in flexibility with those who did not. Methods: We fixed a threshold of 7° to indicate an improvement in passive Straight Leg Raise (SLR) angle and differentiate between 'Responders' and 'Non-responders' regarding passive HM stretching. Results: Only body mass index differed between groups; it was significantly smaller in Responders (p = 0.007). The majority of Non-responders experienced workplace accidents, but this was of marginal difference compared to Responders (p = 0.056). Conclusions: Further studies should consider a broader clinical analysis with a larger sample size to understand which factors influence the HM stretching response in CLBP patients.

Strategies for Worker Training and Information in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH)

Introduction: All workers have the right to work in safe and healthy conditions, a fundamental right recognized in several global regulations. Portugal, however, has one of the highest accident rates in Europe, which raises doubts about the adequate implementation of labor legislation. Methodology: This study analyzes the contents of the training courses offered by several companies, verifying whether they are up to date and relevant to the specific risks of each sector and function of the workers. In addition, the teaching methodologies and the means used to communicate information are evaluated. Results: The study identifies strategies that allow for the delivery of training in occupational health and safety in a differentiated way, aiming at building a more solid safety culture. Discussion: The results indicate that, although there is training in occupational health and safety, it is necessary to better adapt the contents to the specificities of the sectors and ensure that the methodologies are effective in transmitting knowledge. Conclusions: The implementation of differentiated and updated training can significantly contribute to the creation of a robust safety culture and the reduction of workplace accidents in Portugal.

Evaluation of the Performance of Neural and Non-Neural Methods to Classify the Severity of Work Accidents Occurring in the Footwear Industry Complex

In the footwear industry, occupational risks are significant, and work accidents are frequent. Professionals in the field prepare documents and reports about these accidents, but the need for more time and resources limits learning based on past incidents. Machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) methods have been applied to analyze data from these documents, identifying accident patterns and classifying the damage’s severity. However, evaluating the performance of these methods in different economic sectors is crucial. This study examined neural and non-neural methods for classifying the severity of workplace accidents in the footwear industry complex. The random forest (RF) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) methods were the most effective non-neural methods. The neural methods 1D convolutional neural networks (1D-CNN) and bidirectional long short-term memory (Bi-LSTM) showed superior performance, with parameters above 98% and 99%, respectively, although with a longer training time. It is concluded that using these methods is viable for classifying accidents in the footwear industry. The methods can classify new accidents and simulate scenarios, demonstrating their adaptability and reliability in different economic sectors for accident prevention.

MODERN CONCEPT OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGEMENT WITH A RISK-BASED APPROACH

The article justifies implementing a risk-based approach (RBA) in occupational safety and health (OSH) management. It considers the limitations of traditional methods of implementing preventive measures focused on reactive measures designed to respond to immediate security challenges. It further proposes modern proactive strategies that can monitor, predict, and prevent dangerous situations in the workplace in advance. The study develops and substantiates the RBA’s main principles and underscores elements, methodologies, and their integration into existing OSH management systems. It provides arguments to support decentralising decision-making closer to the sources of hazards to allow for a faster and more effective response. It also emphasises the fragmented nature of the current occupational safety and health legislation, making it challenging to integrate RBA. Recommendations suggest improving the legislative framework to support RBA and provide employers greater flexibility in choosing risk management tools and methods. The authors recognise a systematic risk monitoring and assessment approach as a critical need. The absence of regular audits and risk assessments hinders the identification and prevention of hazards. The study proposes the introduction of modern technologies and methodologies, such as the Fine and Kinney method, the Elmeri system, and the Ishikawa diagram, to improve the risk identification and assessment processes. The article also stresses the importance of informing employees about potential risks and preventive measures, which contributes to the overall safety culture in organisations. In addition, the authors outline an algorithm for implementing RBA, which includes auditing workplaces, creating electronic registers, developing safety instructions, systematic risk assessment, documenting results, and informing stakeholders. The proposed approach aims to proactively identify and mitigate occupational risks, which helps to reduce workplace accidents and occupational diseases. The article concludes that the transition to a risk-based approach is essential for improving workplace safety, reducing occupational risks, and supporting the sustainable development of enterprises. By applying RBA, organisations can achieve higher occupational safety, reduce the costs associated with accidents and injuries, and contribute to a safer and healthier work environment. Keywords: risks, occupational safety, occupational health, production, risk-based approach.

Epidemiology of High-Energy Distal Radius Fractures.

Background: High-energy distal radius fractures have not been as well studied as the more common osteoporotic fractures. Differences between these two groups of fractures have implications on the prevention and clinical management of such injuries. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of all patients in our institution who presented with distal radius fractures within the period of a year. Demographic data, injury mechanism, fracture classification, associated injuries and work-related status were obtained and analysed. Results: High energy fractures made up 27.1% of the cases. Falls from height were the most common cause, followed by motor vehicle accidents. These high-energy fractures were more commonly seen in males, younger patients (average age 41 vs. 61 years), and in workplace accidents. These injuries were also more likely to be bilateral and associated with an additional ipsilateral upper extremity injury. The high-energy group was also more likely to have an AO type B fracture. Conclusions: A substantial proportion of distal radius fractures seen in our population are high-energy injuries. Their contrasting patient and injury profiles suggest that they should be considered separately from osteoporotic fractures. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

A Conceptual Framework for Analyzing Occupational Safety and Health Program Investment: Hierarchy of Controls-Based Approach

Introduction: The Frequency Rate (FR) of workplace accidents in 2019 was recorded at 3.4, meaning that for every million work hours, there were 3.4 cases of workplace accidents. In 2020, the FR increased to 3.6, and in 2021, it further rose to 3.8. Therefore, companies need to make improvements to reduce the number of work accidents by investing some resources in the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) investment program. This study aims to develop a conceptual framework for analyzing the OSH investment program by considering its benefits and costs. Methods: Hierarchy of controls was used in this study to classify and identify OSH programs, OSH investment items, and OSH implementation options. The in-depth interview was also conducted by involving several experts to formulate and justify the items in the conceptual framework. Result: This study resulted in 2 main aspects, namely carefully chosen OSH experts to ensure reliable and relevant information collected and involving a detailed analysis of different data levels (3, 2, and 1) along with a breakdown of costs for each level 1 data. Conclusion: The finding of this study is a conceptual framework to help and direct companies in order to analyze the selection of OSH programs, OSH investment items, and OSH implementation options by prioritizing the hierarchy of controls.

Two Decades of Fatal Workplace Accidents in Milan and Monza, Italy: Trends, Work Sectors, and Causes From Autoptic Data.

Work-related fatalities represent an important global public health threat, accounting for over 300,000 deaths annually. Despite preventive strategies, fatalities persist, necessitating comprehensive investigations. Autoptic investigations, when ordered, offer comprehensive data on fatal accidents, in particular with detailed information about the type of accident, lesions, and type of work, enabling a thorough analysis of various factors contributing to workplace deaths. This study investigates work-related fatalities in Milan and Monza Brianza, Lombardy, analyzing patterns, industries, and factors leading to death among workers. This retrospective study analyzed all fatal work accident data from the Autopsy Database of the Legal Medicine Institute of Milan from January 2000 to December 2022. We also estimated the risk of fatal accidents per 1.00.000 workers using ISTAT data for the different work sectors. Of the 17,841 violent deaths in Milan and Monza Brianza, 308 resulted from work-related accidents. The majority were male (95.1%). The secondary sector showed the higher estimated risk (27 /106 vs. 19/106 in primary and 2.3/106 in tertiary sector) accounted for 78.5% of fatalities, with specialized workers (35.1%) and construction workers (25%) being the most affected. Falls from above were the leading cause of death (36.7%). A decreasing trend in fatal accidents over the study period was observed, with July having the greatest frequency. The most common causes of death were polytrauma (36.4%) and head injuries (19.2%). Non-Italian workers constitute a noteworthy percentage of fatal cases (24%). The secondary sector has the most fatal accidents at work despite a decrease in accidents over the observed time period. There is a need for rigorous analysis and interventions, using forensic autopsy case data to help understand causes, and collaboration between institutions is encouraged to develop effective preventive policies.

An Overview of Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior About Using Self Protective Equipment in Toll Road Construction Workers PT. X, Lampung in October 2018

The behavior of using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in construction sector workers in Indonesia is still not good, this is indicated by the still high mortality and disability due to workplace accidents. There are still many workers who do not use PPE when working based on several factors, including the lack of company policy and supervision and aspects of the workers themselves. The purpose of this study was to see an overview of the knowledge, attitudes and behavior of construction workers about the use of PPE in PT. X, Lampung in 2018. The research design used in this study was a cross-sectional design that was descriptive in nature. This study used a sample of 50 people and analyzed univariately. The results of this study show a picture of knowledge, attitudes and good behavior about the use of PPE. In addition, the highest age for workers is> 30 years, the highest level of education is Higher Education and the lowest is elementary school and the highest level of education is high school / vocational school, the highest period of employment is ≤ 10 years. From the results of this study it can be concluded that respondents have a high level of awareness about the importance of using PPE to avoid the risk of workplace accidents.