Original Article
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Association between urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites and the prevalence of respiratory disease in residents living near Pohang Industrial Complex
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Minji Kim, Sangwoo Lim, Seongrok Kim, Jea Chul Ha, Hyunjoo Kim, Insung Chung
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e27. Published online September 22, 2025
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e27
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Abstract
Abstract in Korean
PDF
- Background
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are generated from the incomplete combustion of organic materials such as fossil fuels and wood. These compounds, often inhaled, cause respiratory issues like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease due to oxidative stress and inflammation. Pohang, South Korea’s iron and steel hub, experiences significant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons emissions from extensive industrial activities and heavy truck movements. This study investigates the link between urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons metabolites and respiratory diseases among Pohang residents, considering their cumulative exposure and duration of residency.
Methods
Utilizing data from the National Environmental Research Institute’s health impact assessment conducted between 2012 and 2015, this study included 1,189 participants from Pohang. Urinary concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons metabolites served as exposure indicators. The study assessed the correlation between these metabolite levels and self-reported respiratory diseases, considering variables such as duration of residence, smoking status, and occupational exposures. Statistical analyses involved logistic regression and fixed-effect meta-analysis.
Results
The findings indicate a significant association between elevated levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons metabolites and an increased risk of respiratory diseases, particularly among those in the highest exposure quartile. The study also found a notable dose-response relationship, emphasizing the heightened risk with longer residency durations near the industrial complex. Despite yearly fluctuations, the trend suggests a persistent risk associated with high polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure.
Conclusions
Elevated exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons near industrial areas such as the Pohang Industrial Complex is significantly associated with an increased prevalence of respiratory diseases. The study underscores the importance of implementing public health strategies to reduce polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure, especially in industrial regions. Future research should broaden the scope of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons metabolites analyzed and consider comprehensive exposure histories to better understand the relationship between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure and respiratory health outcomes.
- 포항 산업 단지 인근 거주 주민의 요중 PAH 대사물 노출과 호흡기 질환 유병률 간의 연관성
목적
철강 산업은 다양한 유해물질, 특히 다환방향족탄화수소를 방출하는 주요 공해 원인이다. 대한민국 포항은 이러한 산업의 중심지로, 인근 주민의 건강에 다환방향족탄화수소 노출이 미치는 영향을 연구하기에 이상적인 장소이다. 본 연구는 포항 산업 단지 근처에 거주하는 개인들 사이에서 다환방향족탄화수소 노출과 호흡기 질환의 유병률 간의 관계를 평가하고자 한다.
방법
2012년부터 2015년까지 국립환경연구원의 건강 영향 평가 자료를 활용하여, 포항에 거주하는 1,189명의 참가자를 대상으로 연구를 진행하였다. 다환방향족탄화수소 대사물 농도를 노출 지표로 사용하였으며, 이러한 대사물 수준과 자가보고 된 호흡기 질환 사이의 상관관계를 평가하였다. 이 때 거주기간, 흡연상태, 직업노출 등의 변수를 고려하였다. 통계분석에는 로지스틱 회귀분석 및 고정 효과 메타분석이 사용되었다.
결과
소변 내 다환방향족탄화수소 대사물 수준이 높을수록 호흡기 질환 위험이 증가하는 연관성이 발견되었으며, 특히 가장 높은 노출 분위에 속한 참가자들에서 그 위험이 크게 나타났다. 이 연구는 장기간에 걸친 고농도 다환방향족탄화수소 노출이 호흡기 건강에 미치는 심각한 위험을 강조한다.
결론
본 연구는 포항 산업 단지와 같은 산업 지역에서 소변 내 다환방향족탄화수소 대사물 노출이 심각한 건강 위험과 관련이 있음을 강조한다. 연구의 지리적 초점은 산업 단지 인근 거주자들이 환경 유해물질에 취약하다는 점을 보여주며, 이는 표적 공중 보건 개입의 필요성을 시사한다. 공기 정화 시스템 개선, 배출 기준 강화, 환경을 고려한 도시 계획과 같은 전략이 필수적이다.
Original Article
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Occupational disease issues in high-tech industries of South Korea: analysis of governmental data on the semiconductor and display industries
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Chungsik Yoon, Jinjoo Chung, Jongran Lee, Kwonchul Ha, Joseph DiGangi, Jeong-Ok Kong
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2025;37:e6. Published online March 24, 2025
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2025.37.e6
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Abstract
Abstract in Korean
PDF
- Background
This study analyzed occupational diseases compensated through the government system in the Korean electronics industry and observed changes in the rationale for compensation.
Methods
Data from the Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service (KWCWS) from 2012 to 2023 were analyzed to examine occupational disease issues in South Korea's semiconductor and display industries.
Results
KWCWS received 174 occupational disease claims between 2012 and 2023, with 88 (50.6%) approved. The case of a 22-year-old semiconductor worker who died from leukemia has raised awareness and appears to be leading to more claims and higher approval rates. Cancer-related claims, particularly for breast and blood cancers, were the most common. Since 2018, the approval rate for occupational diseases has increased to 60%, which may have been influenced by the Supreme Court's Principle of Presumption of Occupational Diseases and the government’s reduction of the burden of proof. However, approval rates remain lower in small- and medium-sized enterprises (38.0%) compared to large corporations (55.6%), likely because of better documentation and unionization in the latter. The semiconductor industry had more claims and approvals than the LCD industry, primarily due to its longer operational history and greater chemical exposure.
Conclusions
In South Korea, the increasing approval rate of occupational diseases in the electronics industry from 2012 to 2023 appears to reflect changes in how causal relationships and occupational health policies have been implemented and this is likely due to stakeholder involvement and relevant legal decisions.
- 반도체 및 디스플레이 산업의 정부자료 분석으로 본 한국 첨단 산업에서의 직업병 이슈
목적
본 연구는 한국 전자산업에서 산재보험 보상 승인된 직업병을 분석하고 보상 근거의 변화를 관찰하였다.
방법
2012년부터 2023년까지 근로복지공단의 데이터를 분석하여 한국의 반도체 및 디스플레이 산업에서 직업병의 신청과 승인을 연도별, 업종별, 규모별로 분석하였다.
결과
2012년부터 2023년까지 근로복지공단에 접수된 직업병 산재보상 신청은 174건이고 이 중 88건(51%)이 승인되었다. 2007년 한 반도체 노동자의 백혈병 사망을 계기로 직업병에 대한 인식이 높아져, 산재보상 신청 건수가 증가하고 승인률도 높아진 것으로 추정된다. 신청 상병은 암, 특히 유방암과 혈액암이 가장 많았다. 대법원이 직업병 추정 원칙을 판시하고 정부가 입증 부담을 완화한 것이 2018년 이후 직업병 승인률을 60%까지 증가하는데 기여하였다. 그러나 중소기업(38%)의 승인률은 대기업(56%)에 비해 여전히 낮은데, 이는 대기업에서 기록을 더 잘 보관하고 노조 조직률도 더 높은 것이 영향을 주었을 것이다. 반도체 산업은 LCD 산업보다 산재 신청 건수와 승인 건수가 더 많은데, 이는 반도체 산업의 역사가 더 길며 화학물질 노출이 더 크기 때문으로 추정된다.
결론
연구 기간 동안 전자업체에서의 대부분 직업병은 혈액암과 유방암과 같은 암이었고 직업병 산재 승인의 증가는 이해관계자의 참여와 사회 이슈화, 유연해진 법원 판결, 산재보험제도 등이 큰 영향을 미쳤을 것이다.
Original Article
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Dynamics of pre-shift and post-shift lung function parameters among wood workers in Ghana
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John Ekman, Philip Quartey, Abdala Mumuni Ussif, Niklas Ricklund, Daniel Lawer Egbenya, Gideon Akuamoah Wiafe, Korantema Mawuena Tsegah, Akua Karikari, Håkan Löfstedt, Francis Tanam Djankpa
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e39. Published online September 12, 2023
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e39
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
Diseases affecting the lungs and airways contribute significantly to the global burden of disease. The problem in low- and middle-income countries appears to be exacerbated by a shift in global manufacturing base to these countries and inadequate enforcement of environmental and safety standards. In Ghana, the potential adverse effects on respiratory function associated with occupational wood dust exposure have not been thoroughly investigated.
MethodsSixty-four male sawmill workers and 64 non-woodworkers participated in this study. The concentration of wood dust exposure, prevalence and likelihood of association of respiratory symptoms with wood dust exposure and changes in pulmonary function test (PFT) parameters in association with wood dust exposure were determined from dust concentration measurements, symptoms questionnaire and lung function test parameters.
ResultsSawmill workers were exposed to inhalable dust concentration of 3.09 ± 0.04 mg/m3 but did not use respirators and engaged in personal grooming habits that are known to increase dust inhalation. The sawmill operators also showed higher prevalence and likelihoods of association with respiratory symptoms, a significant cross-shift decline in some PFT parameters and a shift towards a restrictive pattern of lung dysfunction by end of daily shift. The before-shift PFT parameters of woodworkers were comparable to those of non-woodworkers, indicating a lack of chronic effects of wood dust exposure.
ConclusionsWood dust exposure at the study site was associated with acute respiratory symptoms and acute changes in some PFT parameters. This calls for institution and enforcement of workplace and environmental safety policies to minimise exposure at sawmill operating sites, and ultimately, decrease the burden of respiratory diseases.
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Citations
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- Combined Assessment of Particulate Matter, Bioaerosols, and Pulmonary Function Tests for Evaluating Occupational Risks in Podiatrists
Serap Arsal Yıldırım, Beyhan Pekey, Levent Aydın, Ayfer Peker Karatoprak, Fetiye Kolaylı, Serap Argun Barış, Doğanhan Kadir Er, Eda Yazıcı Özçelik, Kozet Yapsakli
Water, Air, & Soil Pollution.2025;[Epub] CrossRef - Burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Ghana and globally from 1990 to 2021, with projections through 2050: a systematic analysis based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Emmanuel Mensah, Min Liu, Lingling Pan, Wei Lu, Susheng Zhou, Liqin Zhang, Yusheng Cheng, Shuoshuo Wei, Lei Zha
Frontiers in Medicine.2025;[Epub] CrossRef - What do the clinical and respiratory functional assessments of woodworkers in Parakou, West Africa, reveal?
Serge Ade, Mariano Efio, Josiane Patricia Mapto Foupossia, Ibrahim Mama Cissé, Anthony David Harries
Multidisciplinary Respiratory Medicine.2025;[Epub] CrossRef
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Original Article
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Particulate matter concentration effects on attention to environmental issues: a cross-sectional study among residents in Korea’s Pohang Industrial Complex
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Hye-seung Ryu, Jea Chul Ha, Insung Chung, Seonhee Yang, Hyunjoo Kim, Sung-Deuk Choi
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e31. Published online August 10, 2023
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e31
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Abstract
Abstract in Korean
PDF
Supplementary Material
- Background
With modernization, air pollution has become increasingly serious, and its effects on health have been revealed. As a result, public interest in environmental pollution has become critical for regulating air pollution. In our study, we aim to evaluate the impact of air pollution levels on public attention to environmental issues and examine whether awareness of the residential environment’s impact on health acts as a mediator in this relationship.
MethodsWe conducted an analysis on 400 individuals surveyed in the preliminary feasibility study on adverse health effects in the Pohang Industrial Complex, to examine the relationship between particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) and attention to environmental issues. Logistic regression analysis was performed, and mediation analysis was used to determine whether awareness of the residential environment’s impact on health mediated the relationship.
ResultsThe logistic regression analysis results showed that PM2.5 levels were associated with attention to environmental issues (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3–3.5; p = 0.003) and awareness of health impacts (AOR: 3.4; 95% CI: 1.6–7.1; p = 0.001). The PM2.5 levels showed 9.9% (95% CI: 5.4–14.0) increase in the prevalence of high attention to environmental issues, of which, only 1.0% (95% CI: 0.2–2.3) were mediated by health impact awareness. In the overall analysis, 10% of the total effect of PM2.5 on attention to environmental issues was mediated by health impact awareness.
ConclusionsAccording to this study’s results, there was a correlation between air pollution levels and attention to environmental issues. Awareness of the health impacts of air pollution partially mediated the effect of air pollution levels on attention to environmental issues. In future studies, it is recommended to identify other mediators to further understand this structure.
- 미세먼지(Particular matter)농도가 환경문제에 대한 관심에 미치는 영향 : 포항시 거주민을 대상으로 한 단면연구
목적
근현대화가 진행되어오면서 대기오염은 심각해지고 대기오염에 의한 건강영향이 밝혀지면서 대기오염을 규제하기위해 환경오염에 대한 대중의 관심도가 중요해졌다. 이번 연구에서는 대기오염 수치가 환경오염에 대한 관심도에 미치는 영향을 평가하고 그 구조로써 건강영향에 대한 인식이 매개체로써 작용하는지 탐구하고자 하였다.
방법
포항 산업단지 건강피해 예비타당성 위해소통 설문조사에서 파악된 400명에 대하여 분석을 시행하였다. PM2.5와 환경오염에 대한 관심의 관계에 대해서 보기위해 로지스틱 회귀분석을 시행하였고, 그 구조를 파악하기 위해 매개분석을 사용하여 건강영향에 대한 인식이 매개체로써 작용하는지 확인하였다.
결과
로지스틱 분석 결과 PM2.5 수치는 환경에 대한 관심과 관련이 있었고([AOR]: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.3, 3.5, P = 0.003), 건강영향에 대한 인식도와도 관련이 있었다(AOR: 3.4, 95% CI: 1.6, 7.1, P = 0.001). PM2.5수치는 전체 환경에 대한 관심도에 비교위험(%)이 9.9 (95 % CI: 5.4, 14.0)인데 전체에서 1.0 (95 % CI: 0.2, 2.3) 만이 건강영향 인식도에 의해 매개되는 비교위험이다. 전체 분석 결과에서 PM2.5가 환경에 대한 관심에 미치는 전체 영향의 10%가 건강영향 인식에 매개되었다.
결론
연구결과에 따르면 대기오염 수준은 환경오염에 대한 관심도와 관련이 있었다. 건강영향에 대한 인식은 대기오염수준이 환경오염에 대한 관심도에 미치는 영향의 일부를 매개하였다.
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Citations
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- Toward the 3rd Generation of Smart Farming: Materials, Devices, and Systems for E‐Plant Technologies
Daegun Kim, Jonghyun Won, Hyeongmin Park, Jun‐Gyu Choi, Sungjun Park, Giwon Lee
Advanced Functional Materials.2026;[Epub] CrossRef - Long-term exposure to ambient air pollutant mixture and metabolic obesity phenotypes: Results from a nationwide Korean study (2007–2019)
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology.2026; 36(1): 175. CrossRef - Long-term joint exposure of outdoor air pollutants and impaired kidney function in Korean adults: A mixture analysis based on a nationwide sample (2007–2019)
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology.2025; 116: 104712. CrossRef - Association Between Exposure to Indoor Air Pollutants and Allergic Rhinitis Status Using the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data
Ah-Reum Jo, Seunghyun Lee, Xiaoxue Ma, Wanhyung Lee, Li Yang
Indoor Air.2025;[Epub] CrossRef - Association between exposure to ambient particulate matter and high sensitivity C-reactive protein: A nationwide study in South Korea, 2015–2018
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Atmospheric Environment.2024; 339: 120856. CrossRef
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[Special Collection] Working hours as a social determinants of workers' health
Special Article
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Problems and suggested improvement plans for occupational health service in Korea
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Dongmug Kang
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2023;35:e10. Published online May 11, 2023
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2023.35.e10
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Abstract
Abstract in Korean
PDF
Supplementary Material
The purpose of this paper was to review the problems relating to Korea’s occupational health services and suggest ways to improve them. Korea can be classified as a welfare state type of conservative corporatism partially interwoven with liberalism. While experiencing compressed economic growth, the economic sectors of developed (excess areas) and developing (deficient areas) countries are interwoven. Therefore, it is necessary to perfect conservative corporatism along with a complementary reinforcement of liberal contents and to apply a multilayered approach focusing on complementing the deficient areas. It is essential to form a national representative indicator related to occupational health, and a strategy for selection and concentration is needed. The proposed central indicator is the occupational health coverage rate (OHCR), which is the number of workers who have applied for mandatory occupational health services under the Occupational Safety and Health Act in the numerator with the total working population in the denominator. This paper proposes ways to raise the OHCR, which is currently at the level of 25%–40%, to 70%–80%, which is the level of Japan, Germany, and France. To achieve this target, it is necessary to focus on small businesses and vulnerable workers. This is an area of market failure and requires the active input of community-oriented public resources. For access to larger workplaces, the marketability of services should be strengthened and personal intervention using digital health resources should be actively attempted. Taking a national perspective, work environment improvement committees with tripartite (labor, management, and government) participation for improvement of the working environment need to be established at the center and in the regions. Through this, prevention funds linked to industrial accident compensation and prevention could be used efficiently. A national chemical substance management system must be established to monitor the health of workers and the general public.
- 한국의 직업보건서비스의 문제점과 개선 방안
한국의 직업보건서비스의 문제점을 살펴보고 개선 방안을 제시하고자 하였다. 발간된 논문과 보고서 및 2022년의 산업보건환경 변화에 따른 대응방안 연구(정책포럼)1의 결과를 중심으로 조사하였다. 한국은 보수적조합주의를 근간으로 한 자유주의가 가미된 형태의 복지국가유형으로 분류할 수 있고, 압축적 경제성장을 경험하면서 선진국과 개발도상국의 영역이 섞여 있어 과잉과 결핍이 혼재되어 있다. 따라서 한국의 직업보건서비스의 발전을 위해서는 보수조합주의적 완성도를 높이면서 부수적으로 자유주의적 내용을 보완하여야 하며, 동일한 발전단계에 대한 단일한 접근법 보다는 결핍영역에 대한 보완을 중심으로 한 중층적 접근법이 필요하다. 직업보건관련 중심적 지표를 형성하고 이에 대한 선택과 집중전략이 필요하며, 중심지표로는 현재 25~40% 수준에 머물러 있는 직업보건 적용율을 독일, 프랑스, 일본 수준인 70~80% 수준으로 제고하는 것을 목표로 삼기를 제안한다. 이렇게 하기 위해서는 소규모 사업장과 취약한 노동자에 대해 집중하여야 하며, 이 영역은 시장실패영역으로서 지역중심의 공공자원의 적극적 투입이 필요한데, 전국 보건소 숫자인 256개 정도의 지역에 지역 직업보건 지원센터를 건립할 것을 제안한다. 중규모 이상의 사업장에 대한 접근으로는 서비스의 수요에 기반한 시장성을 강화하고 디지털헬스를 이용한 개인영역의 중재를 적극 시도하여야 한다. 전국적차원에서 사업장 작업환경개선과 중재를 위한 노사정이 참여하는 작업환경개선위원회를 중앙과 지역에 설치하고, 이를 통해 산재보상과 예방을 연계한 예방기금을 효율적으로 사용하도록 한다. 국가 차원의 화학물질 관리체계를 구축하고, 근로자와 일반국민의 건강을 모니터링할 수 있어야 한다
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- Perspectives from the new president of the Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Medicine: future strategies for occupational and environmental medicine
Sang Baek Ko
Ann Occup Environ Med.2025; 37: e1. CrossRef - Occupational disease monitoring by the Korea Occupational Disease
Surveillance Center: a narrative review
Dong-Wook Lee, Inah Kim, Jungho Hwang, Sunhaeng Choi, Tae-Won Jang, Insung Chung, Hwan-Cheol Kim, Jaebum Park, Jungwon Kim, Kyoung Sook Jeong, Youngki Kim, Eun-Soo Lee, Yangwoo Kim, Inchul Jeong, Hyunjeong Oh, Hyeoncheol Oh, Jea Chul Ha, Jeehee Min, Chul
The Ewha Medical Journal.2025;[Epub] CrossRef - Challenges from 14 years of experience at Workers' Health
Centers in basic occupational health services for micro and small enterprises in
Korea: a narrative review
Jeong-Ok Kong, Yeongchull Choi, Seonhee Yang, Kyunghee Jung-Choi
The Ewha Medical Journal.2025;[Epub] CrossRef - Association of Precarious Employment With Unmet Healthcare Needs and Health Checkup Participation
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
American Journal of Preventive Medicine.2025; 68(6): 1120. CrossRef - Association Between Precarious Employment and Cognitive Decline: A Longitudinal Study of Middle-Aged and Older Workers in Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Journal of General Internal Medicine.2025; 40(10): 2292. CrossRef - Precarious Employment Typologies and Psychotropic Medication Use and Misuse
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
American Journal of Preventive Medicine.2025; 69(6): 108064. CrossRef - Precarious employment and the onset of depressive symptoms and problematic alcohol use in middle-aged or older workers: A Korean longitudinal study (2006–2022)
Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Social Science & Medicine.2024; 357: 117170. CrossRef - Association of precarious employment with depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among female workers: Findings from a nationwide longitudinal study in Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Journal of Affective Disorders.2024; 351: 931. CrossRef - Association between precarious employment and the onset of depressive symptoms in men and women: a 13-year longitudinal analysis in Korea (2009–2022)
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Yu-Min Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon
Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences.2024;[Epub] CrossRef - Association between life satisfaction, self-esteem, and health checkup participation: A population-based longitudinal study in South Korea
Seong-Uk Baek, Jin-Ha Yoon
Preventive Medicine.2024; 189: 108127. CrossRef - Multidimensional typologies of precarious employment and their relationships with mental well-being in Korean wageworkers: A latent class analysis based on the Korean Working Conditions Survey (2020–2021)
Seong-Uk Baek, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
Preventive Medicine.2023; 177: 107787. CrossRef
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Special Article
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Approval status and characteristics of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among Korean workers in 2020
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Eun-woo Cha, Sae-mi Jung, Il-ho Lee, Dae Hwan Kim, Eui Hyek Choi, In-ah Kim, Yong-kyu Kim, Kyung-joon Lee, Yang Won Kang, Ho-gil Kim, Young-ki Kim
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2022;34:e31. Published online October 26, 2022
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2022.34.e31
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Abstract
Abstract in Korean
PDF
- Background
This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) in occupational disease claims and identify patterns of WRMSDs for each body part by industry and occupation.
MethodsThis study analyzed the raw data of occupational disease claims for musculoskeletal disorders deliberated by the Occupational Disease Decision Committee of the Korea Workers’ Compensation & Welfare Service in 2020. The data was classified into 6 body parts with the highest numbers of occupational disease cases by using the complete enumeration data on principal diagnoses and 4 types of subdiagnoses in the raw data. The characteristics and approval rates of WRMSDs by body part, industry and occupation were examined and summarized.
ResultsA total of 13,015 occupational disease cases for WRMSDs were classified, and lumbar spinal (back) diseases accounted for the largest proportion of claimed diseases, followed by shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and neck diseases in a descending order. The occupations with the highest and second highest numbers of occupational disease cases by body part were found to be automobile assemblers and production-related elementary workers for the neck, school meal service workers and cooks for the back, construction frame mold carpenters and school meal service workers for the shoulder, elementary workers in mining and food service workers for the elbow, food service workers and automobile parts assemblers for the wrist, and ship welders and school meal service workers for the knee.
ConclusionsThis study examined the characteristics and approval status of WRMSDs by body part and occupation. Based on the study results, management strategies for the prevention of WRMSDs should be established regarding occupations with a high risk of WRMSDs for each body part.
- 업무상 근골격계질환의 2020년 산업재해 승인 현황과 특성
목적
본 연구는 업무 관련 근골격계 질환(WMSD)의 특성과 신체 부위에 따른 업종 및 직종별 WMSD 승인율을 분석하기 위해 실시됐다.
방법
2020년 근로복지공단 업무상질병판정위원회에서 심의된 근골격계질환 신청건의 원자료를 활용하여 분석하였다. 원자료의 주상병과 네가지 부상병 정보 전수를 활용하여, 상병신청건수가 많은 6개의 신체부위로 구분하였다. 각 부위별로 업종 및 직종에 대하여 특성과 승인율을 정리 하였다.
결과
WMSD 신청건수는는 총 13015건이 분류되었고, 이중 요추질환이 가장많았고, 어깨, 팔, 손목, 무릎, 경추 순으로 이어졌다. 부위별로 신청건수가 많았던 직종으로 경추는 자동차조립, 제조관련단순종사원, 요추는 급식조리사, 조리사, 어깨는 건설형틀목공, 급식조리사, 팔은 광업단순종사원, 급식조리사, 손목은 급식조리사, 자동차부품조립, 무릎은 조선용접공, 급식조리사로 조사됐다.
결론
신체 부위별 직종에 따른 WMSD의 특성 및 승인율 등을 살펴보았다. 이러한 결과를 바탕으로 신체 부위별 고위험 직종에 대하여 WMSD 예방을 위한 관리 전략이 수립되어야 한다.
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- Synergy and Attenuation of Work-Related Factors in Musculoskeletal Disorders: The Combined Risk Based on Data from the Korean Working Conditions Survey
Eun-Soo Lee, Myong-Hwan Kim, Dongmug Kang, Youn-Hyang Lee, Yoon-Ji Kim, Se-Yeong Kim, Youngki Kim
Medicina.2025; 61(11): 1969. CrossRef - Self-Esteem Trajectories After Occupational Injuries and Diseases and Their Relation to Changes in Subjective Health: Result From the Panel Study of Workers’ Compensation Insurance (PSWCI)
Seong-Uk Baek, Won-Tae Lee, Min-Seok Kim, Myeong-Hun Lim, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jong-Uk Won
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2023;[Epub] CrossRef - Prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among workers in the automobile manufacturing industry in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Xiongda He, Bin Xiao, Junle Wu, Chunshuo Chen, Wankang Li, Maosheng Yan
BMC Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef
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Case Report
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Nickel dust-induced occupational contact dermatitis by welding and grinding work in shipyard workers: a report of nine cases
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Daehwan Kim, A Ram Kim, Hanjun Kim, Sunghee Lee, Byeonghak Seo, Ho Seok Suh, Chang Sun Sim, Heun Lee, Cheolin Yoo
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2022;34:e7. Published online March 24, 2022
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2022.34.e7
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Abstract
Abstract in Korean
PDF
- Background
Occupational skin diseases are skin conditions that occur or worsen in relation to work and known to be the second most common type of occupational disease affecting individuals in the United States. In Korea, epidemiological reports related to occupational skin diseases are rare. But, no cases of occupational contact dermatitis caused by welding and grinding work have been reported previously.
Case presentationNine male workers working in the production department for liquefied natural gas (LNG) ships in Ulsan complained of erythematous papules/patches and itching in various areas of the body after welding and grinding work. The work environment monitoring report revealed that the amount of nickel dust exceeded the time weighted average (TWA) and poor local ventilation status. Based on the symptoms and the overall results of surveys, several tests, and work environment monitoring report, the 2 workers who had positive patch-test reactions to nickel were diagnosed with nickel dust-induced allergic contact dermatitis. The other 7 workers were diagnosed that there was a high probability that they had nickel dust-induced irritant contact dermatitis. The 2 workers who had nickel dust-induced allergic contact dermatitis were recommended to switch their jobs.
ConclusionsNickel is one of the most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis. In this case, the dust was assumed to be created by welding work with a high nickel content new welding rod and subsequent grinding work, and the concentration of this dust exceeded the time weighted average. Thus, it is thought that the nickel dust may have caused contact dermatitis through continuous contact with the workers' exposed skin in a poorly ventilated space. Currently, several domestic shipbuilding companies are manufacturing LNG tankers using a new construction method. Consequently, it is highly likely that similar cases will occur in the future, which makes this case report meaningful.
- 조선소에서 용접 및 그라인더 작업 중 발생한 니켈 분진에 의한 직업성 접촉피부염 사례 : 9 cases
배경
직업성 피부질환은 업무와 관련되어 발생하거나 악화하는 피부질환을 말하며 미국에서 직업성 질환 중 2번째로 흔한 질환으로 알려져 있다. 국내에서는 직업성 피부질환과 관련하여 역학적인 보고는 가끔 있었으나, 용접/사상 작업을 하는 근로자들에게서 니켈에 의한 직업성 접촉피부염이 발생한 보고는 없었다.
증례
울산 소재의 한 조선회사의 LNG선 생산부에 근무 중인 9명의 남성 근로자가 용접/사상 작업 후 여러 국소 부위에 발진 및 가려움을 호소했다.
작업환경측정 보고에 따르면 니켈 분진의 양이 한계 수준을 초과했고 국소 환기 상태가 불량한 것으로 나타났다.
직업성 피부염의 증상, 문진, 여러 검사 결과, 작업환경측정 결과 등을 고려하였을 때 우리는 니켈에 양성 반응을 보인 2명을 니켈 분진에 의한 알레르기접촉피부염으로 진단하였다. 다른 7명은 니켈 분진에 의한 자극접촉피부염 가능성이 높음으로 진단하였다. 니켈 분진에 의한 알레르기접촉피부염으로 진단한 2명에게 작업 전환을 권고하였다.
고찰
니켈은 직업 환경 및 일반 인구에서 피부에 노출 시 발생하는 알레르기접촉피부염의 가장 흔한 원인이다. 본 사례에서 높은 니켈함유량을 가진 새로운 용접봉을 이용한 용접작업 및 이어진 사상 작업으로 인해 고농도의 니켈 분진이 발생한 것으로 추정되며, 이 분진의 농도는 기준치를 초과했다. 따라서 환기가 잘 되지 않는 공간에서 니켈 분진이 근로자들의 노출된 피부에 지속적으로 닿아 접촉피부염을 일으켰을 것으로 생각된다. 현재 국내 여러 조선사들이 새로운 공법으로 LNG 탱크를 생산하고 있다. 결과적으로 우리의 사례와 유사한 여러 사례가 향후 발생할 가능성이 매우 높아 이를 보고하는 바이다.
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Citations
Citations to this article as recorded by

- Occupational skin diseases among cathode material workers in the Korean lithium-ion battery industry: a descriptive case series
Hwa-Yeon Lee, Dong-Hee Koh, Junhyeok Choi, Yong Lim Won
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2025; 37: e29. CrossRef - Numerical simulation of the collection efficiency of welding fume particles in electrostatic precipitator
Yindong Song, Yuni Zhang, Yiliang Liu, Wangyang Long, Kun Tao, Kambiz Vafai
Powder Technology.2023; 415: 118173. CrossRef - Metal Allergy: State-of-the-Art Mechanisms, Biomarkers, Hypersensitivity to Implants
Magdalena Zemelka-Wiacek
Journal of Clinical Medicine.2022; 11(23): 6971. CrossRef
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Review
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A work-relatedness assessment in epidemiological case investigation of occupational cancers: II. Practice: an upper urinary tract cancer in a dyer
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Kihun Kim, Hyeoncheol Oh, Jungwon Kim
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2020;32:e31. Published online September 1, 2020
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2020.32.e31
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Abstract
PDF
An epidemiological case investigation of occupational cancer is conducted to determine the causation between the cancer and the worker's job. This review describes the overall process of work-relatedness assessment of the epidemiological case investigation through a case of upper urinary tract cancer (UUTC) in benzidine exposed worker in dyeing industry. Medical referrals, occupational history, material safety data sheet, and working environment monitoring submitted by the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service were reviewed. We further investigated literatures about the cotton dyeing industry, the domestic law and working environment monitoring reports. Benzidine was listed as an International Agency for Research on Cancer risk factor only for bladder cancer among urinary tract cancers, requiring different logical grounds for establishing causation. A literature review was conducted on the metabolic pathways of benzidine to establish biological plausibility. In addition, several papers were investigated that UUTC and bladder cancer share risk factors to extrapolate the epidemiological studies of bladder cancer. Epidemiologic studies of benzidine and bladder cancer were investigated. The worker is a 71-year-old man and performed dyeing and transporting at several dyeing factories for 29 years. The worker was diagnosed with UUTC based on radiologic and histologic results. It was critical to consider that he worked as a dyer for 3 years. The cancer was diagnosed in 2018, with a latent period of approximately 35 years. The worker performed cotton dyeing, and benzidine-based dye was mainly used. The quantitative exposure level of benzidine was reported from non-detection to 397.4 µg/m3. In biological metabolisms, N-acetylhydroxylamine changes DNA structure of urothelium. As a result of reviewing 4 epidemiological studies, the standardized incidence ratio and standardized mortality ratio were significantly high with 3 years of exposure. Work-relatedness was finally assessed as probable based on biological mechanisms and epidemiological evidence. This review will help solutions for work-relatedness assessment processes.
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Case Report
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A case of acute organic solvent poisoning during epoxy coating
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Sujin Lee, Inah Kim, Dooyong Park, Jaechul Song, Sang Gil Lee
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2019;31:e9. Published online June 18, 2019
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/aoem.2019.31.e9
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
In the construction industry, maintaining health and safety of workers often challenging. Among the workers at construction sites, painters are at particular risk of respiratory diseases and neurotoxicity. However, in Korea there is weak enforcement of workers' health and safety practices in the construction industry in Korea. Poisonings frequently occur at (semi)closed construction sites. In this study, we report a case of acute organic solvent poisoning during construction site painting.
Case presentationA 71-year-old man was found unconscious at a construction site and immediately transferred to the emergency room. The consciousness level was 'stupor state' and the body temperature was hypothermic, at 32 degrees (Celsius). There were no acute brain or cardiac lesions that would have accounted for the faintness. In addition, blood and urine tests did not indicate a cause of loss of consciousness. He had been painting epoxy to waterproof the basement floor before fainting. According to exposure simulation, the patient was overexposed to various organic solvents, such as approximately 316–624 ppm toluene during the work before fainting. Considering the ventilation status of the workplace and the status of no protection, it is considered that exposure through the respiratory tract was considerable.
ConclusionsThe patient in this case lost consciousness during the epoxy coating in a semi-enclosed space. It can be judged as a result of acute poisoning caused by organic solvent exposure and considered to be highly related to work environment.
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Citations
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- Health conditions in aircrew – Association with neurotoxic substances and other occupational factors
G. Hageman, P. van Broekhuizen, J. Nihom
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2026; : 1. CrossRef - Physical and Chemical Interactions of the Polar and Nonpolar Solvents on the Mesoporous Silica Material to Developing Solvent Sensors.
Yesmin Panecatl‐Bernal, Joaquín Alvarado, Josué Ortiz‐Medina, Iván Fuentecilla‐Carcamo, Rodolfo Lima‐Juárez, Daladier‐Alonso Granada‐Ramírez, Melissa Chávez‐Portillo, Lucero Esquina‐Arenas, Sergio Hernández‐Corona, Elder Alpes de Vasconcelos, Walter Mende
ChemistrySelect.2023;[Epub] CrossRef - Parkinson's disease in a worker exposed to insecticides at a greenhouse
Yangwoo Kim, Inah Kim, Jung-Min Sung, Jaechul Song
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2021;[Epub] CrossRef - Extensive high-pressure injection injury of the hand due to epoxy resin paint: a case report
Gaku Niitsuma, Hidechika Nakashima, Takushi Nagai, Kenichirou Teramoto, Keikichi Kawasaki, Katsunori Inagaki
Case Reports in Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery.2021; 8(1): 56. CrossRef
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Research Article
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The role of customer service manual on workplace emotional burden in nationwide cross sectional study
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Sehyun Yun, Sung-Shil Lim, Jihyun Kim, Young-Kwang Kim, Jong-Uk Won, Jin-Ha Yoon
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2019;31:5. Published online February 12, 2019
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-019-0285-9
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
We aim to discuss the overall effect of customer service manual (CSM) on service industry workers using Korean Working Condition Survey.
MethodsOut of 50,007 total survey participants, 11,946 customer service workers were included in the current study (5613 men, 6333 women). Answers to survey questions were used to define the use of CSM, emotional burden, emotional dissonance, engaging angry customers and other covariates. Emotional burden included either depressive event or stress level. Odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of experiencing emotional burden was calculated by logistic regression model. Interaction effect between CSM and engaging angry customer on emotional burden was also estimated.
ResultsOut of 11,946 subjects, total of 3279 (27.4%) have experienced emotional burden. OR (95% CI) of experiencing emotional burden was 1.40 (1.19–1.64) in men and 1.25 (1.09–1.44) in women. There was gender difference in interaction effect between the use of CSM and engaging angry customers. In men, OR (95% CI) was 3.16 (1.38–7.23) with additive effect when always engaging angry customers with CSM compared to rarely engaging without CSM, while in women OR (95% CI) was 8.85 (3.96–19.75) with synergistic effect. Moreover, the risk of depressive event increased only in women with OR (95% CI) 2.22 (1.42–3.48).
ConclusionsOur current study highlighted association between emotional burden and CSM in both men and women service workers. Furthermore, women were affected more severely by CSM. The results from current study suggest that CSM should be changed appropriately to benefit workers.
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- Emotional Burden of Care in Mothers of Children with Cerebral Palsy: Functional Dependency, Emotional Intelligence, and Coping Strategies
Eliana Ruetti, Sofia Pirotti
International Journal of Disability, Development and Education.2025; 72(4): 737. CrossRef - Nurses’ perception of uncertainty in clinical decision-making: A qualitative study
Mitra Mousavi Shabestari, Faranak Jabbarzadeh Tabrizi, Fariborz Roshangar, Akram Ghahramanian, Vahid Zamanzadeh, Parvin Sarbakhsh, David A. Agom
Heliyon.2024; 10(16): e36228. CrossRef - Addressing Financial Inclusion Challenges in Rural Areas from the Financial Services Marketing Employee Emotional Labor Dimension: Evidence from Nigeria
Benedict Ogbemudia Imhanrenialena, Ozioma Happiness Obi-Anike, Chikodili Nkiruka Okafor, Ruby Nneka Ike, Chinedu Obiora-Okafo
Journal of Financial Services Marketing.2022; 27(2): 136. CrossRef - The Burnout Syndrome among Women Working in the Retail Network in Associations with Psychosocial Work Environment Factors
Gintarė Kalinienė, Dalia Lukšienė, Rūta Ustinavičienė, Lina Škėmienė, Vidmantas Januškevičius
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(11): 5603. CrossRef - Factors that Affect Depression and Anxiety in Service and Sales Workers Who Interact With Angry Clients
Jungsun Park, Yangho Kim
Safety and Health at Work.2021; 12(2): 217. CrossRef - Irregular Work Hours and the Risk of Sleep Disturbance Among Korean Service Workers Required to Suppress Emotion
Sehyun Yun, Minsuk Kim, Won-Tae Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jong-Uk Won
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(4): 1517. CrossRef - Effects of Emotional Labor Factors and Working Environment on the Risk of Depression in Pink-Collar Workers
Hae-ryoung Chun, Inhyung Cho, Youngeun Choi, Sung-il Cho
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2020; 17(14): 5208. CrossRef - Combined effect of emotional labor and job insecurity on sleep disturbance among customer service workers
Sunguk Choi, Kwon Ko, Jae Bum Park, Kyung-Jong Lee, Seungho Lee, Inchul Jeong
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2020;[Epub] CrossRef - “Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda”. Workers’ Proactivity in the Association between Emotional Demands and Mental Health
Greta Mazzetti, Silvia Simbula, Chiara Panari, Dina Guglielmi, Alessio Paolucci
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2019; 16(18): 3309. CrossRef
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Case Report
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Ovarian cancer in a former asbestos textile factory worker: a case report
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Sunwook Park, Jaechan Park, Eunsoo Lee, Huisu Eom, Mu Young Shin, Jungwon Kim, Dongmug Kang, Sanggil Lee
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:65. Published online November 16, 2018
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0277-1
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) defined that asbestos is a group 1 substance that causes lung cancer, mesothelioma (pleura and peritoneum), laryngeal cancer, and ovarian cancer in humans. Many studies on lung cancer, and mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure have been conducted, but there was no case report of ovarian cancer due to asbestos exposure in Korea. We describe a case of ovarian cancer caused by asbestos exposure in a worker who worked at an asbestos textile factory for 3 years and 7 months in the late 1970s.
Case presentationA 57-year-old woman visited the hospital because she had difficulty urinating. Ovarian cancer was suspected in radiologic examination, and exploratory laparotomy was performed. She was diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer. The patient did not undergo postoperative chemotherapy and recovered. She joined the asbestos factory in March 1976 and engaged in asbestos textile twisting and spinning for 1 year, 2 years and 7 months respectively. In addition, she lived near the asbestos factory for more than 20 years. There was no other specificity or family history.
ConclusionConsidering the patient’s occupational and environmental history, it is estimated that she had been exposed to asbestos significantly, so we determined that ovarian cancer in the patient is highly correlated with the occupational exposure of asbestos and environmental exposure is a possible cause as well. Social devices are needed to prevent further exposure to asbestos. It is also necessary to recognize that ovarian cancer can occur in workers who have previously been exposed to asbestos, and the education and social compensation for those workers are needed.
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- Asbestos-Related Diseases and Its Impact on Health: An Updated Review Article
Wasey Ali Yadullahi Mir, Ayusha Poudel, Anurag Adhikari, Dhan Bahadur Shrestha, Yubraj Sedhai, Peter LaCamera, Andrew Moraco
Current Pulmonology Reports.2023; 12(4): 244. CrossRef - Primary Ovarian Mesothelioma: A Case Series with Electron Microscopy Examination and Review of the Literature
Luigi Vimercati, Domenica Cavone, Maria Celeste Delfino, Biagio Bruni, Luigi De Maria, Antonio Caputi, Stefania Sponselli, Roberta Rossi, Leonardo Resta, Francesco Fortarezza, Federica Pezzuto, Gabriella Serio
Cancers.2021; 13(9): 2278. CrossRef - Parkinson's disease in a worker exposed to insecticides at a greenhouse
Yangwoo Kim, Inah Kim, Jung-Min Sung, Jaechul Song
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2021;[Epub] CrossRef
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Research Article
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Relationship between job stress and functional dyspepsia in display manufacturing sector workers: a cross-sectional study
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Younghyeon Nam, Soon-Chan Kwon, Yong-Jin Lee, Eun-Chul Jang, Seung-hwan Ahn
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:62. Published online October 19, 2018
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0274-4
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
Job stress has been reported as a risk factor of psychological changes, which have been shown to be related to gastrointestinal diseases and symptoms such as functional dyspepsia. However, few studies have assessed the relationship between job stress and functional dyspepsia. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between job stress and functional dyspepsia in South Korea.
MethodsThis study was conducted between May 23 and July 6, 2016 and included 901 workers in the display manufacturing sector. Subjects completed self-reported questionnaires, regarding Korean Occupational Stress Scale (KOSS), functional dyspepsia, Insomnia Severity Index-K, and health-related behaviors and job characteristics. Subjects were divided into functional dyspepsia-positive and -negative groups based on the Rome III criteria. The KOSS high-risk group was defined as subjects with KOSS score above the 75 percentile of KOSS reference value. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the association between job stress and functional dyspepsia.
ResultsIn women, the risk of functional dyspepsia was significantly higher in the high-risk groups of the following KOSS subcategories in unadjusted model: job demand (OR 3.282, 95% CI 1.181–9.126), and occupational climate (OR 2.665, 95% CI 1.041–6.823). Even in adjusted model, the risk was significantly higher in the high-risk groups of the following KOSS subcategories: job demand (OR 3.123, 95% CI 1.036–9.416) and occupational climate (OR 3.304, 95% CI 1.198–9.115). In men, the risk of functional dyspepsia was not significant in all KOSS subcategories.
ConclusionsThis study showed that job demand and occupational climates were associated with functional dyspepsia in female display manufacturing sector workers. Therefore, both clinical and mental health approaches should be used in the management of functional dyspepsia in women.
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Mina AkbariRad, Abdollah Firoozi, AmirAli Moodi Ghalibaf, Hassan Mehrad-Majd, Bahram Kangi, Ali Beheshti Namdar
Middle East Journal of Digestive Diseases.2025; 17(1): 5. CrossRef - Physical Health Consequences of Vicarious Trauma
Elisabeth Anne Stelson, Glorian Sorensen, Lisa Berkman, Sarah Ballou, Dean Hashimoto, Laura D. Kubzansky, Erika L. Sabbath
Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine.2025; 67(8): 654. CrossRef - Integrated effects of Kampo treatment on gastrointestinal symptoms and stress in patients with functional dyspepsia: a preliminary prospective observational study
Lian Liang, Hongyang Li, Hirokazu Doi, Yaxuan Jiang, Satoshi Tashiro, Jiying Sun, Akihiro Kawahara, Shiro Oka, Masanori Ito, Keiko Ogawa-Ochiai
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Stefano Kayali, Elisa Marabotto, Giorgia Bodini, Simona Marenco, Sara Labanca, Giulia Pieri, Patrizia Zentilin, Edoardo Giovanni Giannini, Manuele Furnari
Journal of Clinical Medicine.2025; 14(23): 8487. CrossRef - Influence of work-related stress on patient safety culture among nurses in a tertiary hospital: a cross-sectional study
Mohammed Mohammed Sani, Yahaya Jafaru, Daniel Opotamutale Ashipala, Abubakar Kalgo Sahabi
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Yuting Yue, Min Wang, Zhifeng Tang
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Yoewon Yoon, Soomin Shin, Seonwoo Lee
Human Service Organizations: Management, Leadership & Governance.2024; : 1. CrossRef - The role of psychological factors in functional gastrointestinal disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Liyanran Yan, Xueli Zhang, Yan Li, Chengjiang Liu, Hua Yang, Chunchun Yang
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Spyridon Zouridis, Muhammad Farhan Ashraf, Patrick Tempera, Ahmad Abulawi, Umer Ejaz Malik, Hadi Minhas, Asra Batool
Cureus.2023;[Epub] CrossRef - Quality of Life and Personality Traits in Dyspepsia Patients and Healthy Individuals: A Case-Control Study
Tayebeh Jamshidbeigi, Amir Adibi, Farhad Mohammadi, Mahtab Bonyadi, Elham Shafiei
Zahedan Journal of Research in Medical Sciences.2023;[Epub] CrossRef - Influence of Shift Work on The Health of Nursing Professionals
Pablo Roman, Isabel Perez-Cayuela, Esther Gil-Hernández, Miguel Rodriguez-Arrastia, Adrian Aparicio-Mota, Carmen Ropero-Padilla, Lola Rueda-Ruzafa
Journal of Personalized Medicine.2023; 13(4): 627. CrossRef - Research trends in the field of the gut-brain interaction: Functional dyspepsia in the spotlight – An integrated bibliometric and science mapping approach
Tai Zhang, Beihua Zhang, Xiangxue Ma, Jiaqi Zhang, Yuchen Wei, Fengyun Wang, Xudong Tang
Frontiers in Neuroscience.2023;[Epub] CrossRef - Relationship between job stress and impaired fasting glucose in male steel industry workers: a cross-sectional study
Hyun-Kyo Lee, Inho Lee, Jisuk Yun, Yong-Jin Lee, Eun-Chul Jang, Young-Sun Min, Soon-Chan Kwon
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2023;[Epub] CrossRef - A study on the clinical characteristics of functional dyspepsia patients with or without depression
Di An
Asian Journal of Surgery.2022; 45(1): 605. CrossRef - Factors Affecting Korean Medicine Health Care Use for Functional Dyspepsia: Analysis of the Korea Health Panel Survey 2017
Boram Lee, Changsop Yang, Mi Hong Yim
Healthcare.2022; 10(7): 1192. CrossRef - COVID-19 Pandemic and Irritable Bowel Syndrome — is there a Relationship?
V. A. Akhmedov
Russian Journal of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Coloproctology.2022; 32(2): 85. CrossRef - The efficacy of cognitive behavior stress management on functional dyspepsia
Min Cheng, Xiu-E. Zhou, Yu-Chen Xu, Hong-Mei Dou
Medicine.2022; 101(19): e29157. CrossRef - Defining the Primary Work Stress Factors of Chinese Coal Miners—A Mixed-Methods Study
Hongxi Di, Shujahat Ali, Yiming Lu
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(21): 14593. CrossRef - Impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on irritable bowel syndrome
Sabrina Xin Zi Quek, Evelyn Xiu Ling Loo, Alla Demutska, Chun En Chua, Guan Sen Kew, Scott Wong, Hui Xing Lau, En Xian Sarah Low, Tze Liang Loh, Ooi Shien Lung, Emily C W Hung, M. Masudur Rahman, Uday C Ghoshal, Sunny H Wong, Cynthia K Y Cheung, Ari F Sya
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.2021; 36(8): 2187. CrossRef - Effects of electroacupuncture on stress-induced gastric dysrhythmia and mechanisms involving autonomic and central nervous systems in functional dyspepsia
Sujuan Zhang, Yi Liu, Shiying Li, Feng Ye, Robert D. Foreman, Jiande D. Z. Chen
American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology.2020; 319(1): R106. CrossRef
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Research Article
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Association between air pollution in the 2015 winter in South Korea and population size, car emissions, industrial activity, and fossil-fuel power plants: an ecological study
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Hyeran Choi, Jun-Pyo Myong
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:60. Published online October 5, 2018
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0273-5
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Abstract
PDF
Supplementary Material
- Background
Compared to 10 years ago, the ambient particulate matter 10 (PM10) and carbon monoxide (CO) levels in South Korea have decreased. However, compared to many other OECD countries, these levels are still too high. Concentration of air pollutants such as PM10 is especially higher during winter than during summer. The first step to rationally solving the air pollution problem in Korea is to identify the key air pollution sources during each season. This ecological study was performed to assess the association between the number of days the accepted PM10 and CO thresholds were exceeded and the concentration of potential emission sources in winter season 2015.
MethodsAn emission inventory of the PM10 and CO emissions in the 232 administrative South Korean districts in January, 2015, and February, 2015 and December, 2015, and the population density, number of car registrations, number of car accidents, industrial power usage, and presence of a fossil-fuel power plant in each district was established on the basis of official web-page data from the government. For all emission source variables except power plants, the administrative districts were grouped into quartiles. Districts were also divided according to whether a power plant was present or not. Negative binomial regression was performed to assess the associations between the PM10 and CO air pollution (defined as ≥100 g/m3 and ≥ 9 ppm, respectively) and the concentration of each emission source.
ResultsCompared to the districts with the lowest population density, the districts with the third highest population density associated most strongly with air pollution. This was also observed for industrial power usage. Car accident number and car registration numbers showed a linear relationship with air pollution. Districts with power plants were significantly more likely to have air pollution than districts that lacked a plant.
ConclusionsGreater car numbers, industrial activity, and population density, and the presence of fossil-fuel plants associated with air pollution in the 2015 winter in South Korea. These data highlight the contaminant sources that could be targeted by interventions that aim to reduce air pollution, decrease the incidence of exposure, and limit the impact of pollution on human health.
Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1186/s40557-018-0273-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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- Unpacking the vertical city: Interaction effects of urban forms on temperatures using SHAP
Moon-Hyun Kim
Sustainable Cities and Society.2026; 136: 107061. CrossRef - A review of factors influencing sensitive skin: an emphasis on built environment characteristics
Xiangfeng Chen, Jing Wen, Wenjuan Wu, Qiuzhi Peng, Xiangfen Cui, Li He
Frontiers in Public Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef - Application of machine learning to predict hospital visits for respiratory diseases using meteorological and air pollution factors in Linyi, China
Jing Yang, Xin Xu, Xiaotian Ma, Zhaotong Wang, Qian You, Wanyue Shan, Ying Yang, Xin Bo, Chuansheng Yin
Environmental Science and Pollution Research.2023; 30(38): 88431. CrossRef - Premature mortality attributable to NO2 exposure in cities and the role of built environment: A global analysis
Jian Song, Yuling Wang, Qin Zhang, Wei Qin, Rubing Pan, Weizhuo Yi, Zhiwei Xu, Jian Cheng, Hong Su
Science of The Total Environment.2023; 866: 161395. CrossRef - Investigating relationship between particulate matter air concentrations and suicides using geographic information system
Anna Gładka, Jan Blachowski, Joanna Rymaszewska, Tomasz Zatoński
Psychology, Health & Medicine.2022; 27(10): 2238. CrossRef - Using an Exposome-Wide Approach to Explore the Impact of Urban Environments on Blood Pressure among Adults in Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei and Surrounding Areas of China
Jian Song, Peng Du, Weizhuo Yi, Jing Wei, Jianlong Fang, Rubing Pan, Feng Zhao, Yi Zhang, Zhiwei Xu, Qinghua Sun, Yingchun Liu, Chen Chen, Jian Cheng, Yifu Lu, Tiantian Li, Hong Su, Xiaoming Shi
Environmental Science & Technology.2022; 56(12): 8395. CrossRef - Perceived environmental pollution and subjective cognitive decline (SCD) or SCD-related functional difficulties among the general population
Yeong Jun Ju, Joo Eun Lee, Soon Young Lee
Environmental Science and Pollution Research.2021; 28(24): 31289. CrossRef - Association between perceived environmental pollution and poor sleep quality: results from nationwide general population sample of 162,797 people
Yeong Jun Ju, Joo Eun Lee, Dong-Woo Choi, Kyu-Tae Han, Soon Young Lee
Sleep Medicine.2021; 80: 236. CrossRef - Report of Particulate Matter Emissions During the 2015 Fire at Fuel Tanks in Santos, Brazil
Daniela Oliveira da Silva, Bruna Hayashida Arôxa, Virginia Klausner, Eduardo Jorge de Brito Bastos, Alan Prestes, Alessandra Abe Pacini
Air, Soil and Water Research.2020;[Epub] CrossRef - Using Bayesian spatio-temporal model to determine the socio-economic and meteorological factors influencing ambient PM2.5 levels in 109 Chinese cities
Jie-Qi Jin, Yue Du, Li-Jun Xu, Zhao-Yue Chen, Jin-Jian Chen, Ying Wu, Chun-Quan Ou
Environmental Pollution.2019; 254: 113023. CrossRef
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Research Article
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An overview of compensated work-related injuries among Korean firefighters from 2010 to 2015
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Hyung Doo Kim, Yon Soo An, Dong Hyun Kim, Kyung Sook Jeong, Yeon Soon Ahn
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:57. Published online September 3, 2018
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0268-2
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
Although one in two firefighters in South Korea have experienced work-related injuries, there are few studies which show the overview description on work-related injuries and its analysis regarding such causes. Therefore, we aimed to show the overview of compensated work-related injuries in order to serve fundamental data for establishing prevention policies on work-related injuries for Korean firefighters.
MethodsWe requested the all claimed work-related injury data of Korean firefighters from 2010 to 2015 to the Korean National Fire Agency (NFA). The data from NFA including 2457 claimed cases was analyzed and we confirmed, 2154 approved work-related injuries for the kinds of job activities, cause of accident and type of injuries. Among 2154 approved cases, we analyzed more variables for the sex, age, and job duration of 1344 compensated cases through served text file on summary of accident.
ResultsThe Government Employees Pension Service (GEPS) recognized 2154 (87.7%) approved work-related injuries among 2457 claimed cases. The incidence of work-related injuries per 1000 firefighters was 9.8 persons. By region, the incidence of work-related injuries per 1000 firefighters ranged from a maximum of 14.5 to a minimum of 4.0. The most common job activity caused the accident was fire suppression (18.0%), followed by Emergency medical services (EMS) (17.5%) and training (10.7%). The most common cause of these accident was movement imbalance (30.3%), followed by falls (18.9%) and traffic accident (13.4%). In these work-related injuries, sprains and bruises were the most common type of injury (27.2%), and the most commonly injured body site was the upper and lower back (25.3%). Data from identified 1344 firefighters showed that 1264 (94.0%) were male and 80 (6.0%) were female. Age group was the highest in the 40s with 623 cases (46.4%), and job duration was the highest with 650 cases in 5–10 years (48.4%).
ConclusionIn this study, we could obtain the preliminary data necessary to establish preventive measures, including the cause of accident and region with high accident rates. However, the number of applications for compensated injuries was very small compared to the frequency of injuries found in previous studies. The lack of appropriate treatment suggested that many firefighter injuries can become chronic. In this study, we suggest that it is necessary to introduce an injury monitoring system and improve the accessibility of compensated injuries.
Trial registrationCR318031. Registered 20 June 2018.
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Eshetu Abera Worede, Kedir Yesuf, Lidetu Demoze, Gelila Yitageasu, Bikes Destaw Bitew
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Sungho Kim, Haedong Park, Hyunhee Park, Jiwoon Kwon, Kihyo Jung
Fire.2025; 8(6): 207. CrossRef - Epidemiological attribution of knee and ankle injuries in firefighters
Huiyu Wang, Guoqing Zhu
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Hyeong-Su Park, Kuk-Kyoung Moon, Tae-Soo Ha
Fire.2024; 7(8): 291. CrossRef - Cohort Profile: The Registry-based Epidemiological Study of Cancer in Fire Unit and Emergency Officers (RESCUE) cohort
Wonjeong Jeong, Yoon A Kim, Soo Yeon Song, Dong-Hee Koh, Hyoung-Ryoul Kim, Jae-Lim Cho, Changsoo Kim, Jae Kwan Jun
International Journal of Epidemiology.2024;[Epub] CrossRef - Peripheral vestibular loss in noise-exposed firefighters
Hillary Anne Snapp, Lindsey Vanlooy, Brianna Kuzbyt, Courtney Kolberg, Denise Laffitte-Lopez, Suhrud Rajguru
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Hoyol Jhang, Wonjeong Jeong, Hyun-Soo Zhang, Dong-Woo Choi, Hyejung Kang, Sohee Park
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Noah J. Carr-Pries, Shannon C. Killip, Joy C. MacDermid
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health.2022; 95(5): 909. CrossRef - Subclinical Hearing Deficits in Noise-Exposed Firefighters
Hillary A. Snapp, Natasha Schaefer Solle, Barbara Millet, Suhrud M. Rajguru
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(17): 11028. CrossRef - The effects of psychological risk factors at work on cognitive failures through the accident proneness
Milad Abbasi, Mohsen Falahati, Masoumeh Kaydani, Rohollah Fallah Madvari, Ahmad Mehri, Maryam Ghaljahi, Saeid Yazdanirad
BMC Psychology.2021;[Epub] CrossRef - Shifted Firefighter Health Investigation by Personal Health Insurance Record in Taiwan
Wei-Ching Hsu, Chun-Hsiang Wang, Kang-Ming Chang, Li-Wei Chou
Risk Management and Healthcare Policy.2021; Volume 14: 665. CrossRef - Cohort Profile: Firefighter Research on the Enhancement of Safety and Health (FRESH), a Prospective Cohort Study on Korean Firefighters
Yun Tae Kim, Woo Jin Kim, Jee Eun Choi, Mun-joo Bae, Heeseon Jang, Chan Joo Lee, Hye-Jeong Lee, Dong Jin Im, Byoung Seok Ye, Mi-Ji Kim, Yeoju Jeong, Sung Soo Oh, Young-Chul Jung, Eun Seok Kang, Sungha Park, Seung Koo Lee, Ki Soo Park, Sang Baek Koh, Chang
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Juha Park, Yeon-Soon Ahn, Min-Gi Kim
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Research Article
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Thyroid cancer among female workers in Korea, 2007–2015
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Seonghoon Kang, Jinho Song, Taehwan Koh, One Park, Jong-Tae Park, Won-Jin Lee
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:48. Published online July 16, 2018
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0259-3
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Abstract
PDF
Supplementary Material
- Background
Prevalence of thyroid cancer has been increasing rapidly worldwide, especially among women. There has been a debate as to whether such an increase represents consequences of over-diagnosis or a true increase. To find the occupational risk of Korean female workers in different industry sectors, we analyzed the data of Korean female workers.
MethodsNational Female Worker Cohort data that contain information on total female workers were used for our analysis of prevalence of thyroid cancer (C73 according to KCD-5, 6 code) derived from National Health Insurance data. By combining industrial codes from National Health Insurance Service and those from Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service, the classification of industrial codes became to consist of the total of thirty three representing both non-office (NO) and office (O) categories. Both an internal comparison among female workers within the cohort and an external comparison to compare female workers with Korean general female population were carried out.
ResultsAmong 149,258 female workers, 2,641 cases of thyroid cancers were identified. Differences in prevalence of thyroid cancer between female workers (40.5%) and general Korean female population (32.6%) were observed; however, the differences in prevalence of thyroid cancer between NO workers and O workers were not apparent. An analysis involving workers in Financial and insurance activities sector revealed that, standardized prevalence rate (SPR) of both NO (2.96, 95% CI = 2.01–4.20) and O workers (3.68, 95% CI = 3.10–4.33) increased significantly and that an AOR (adjusted odds ratio) increased marginally (1.38, 95% CI = 0.97–1.96). Further, when stratified in respect to the duration of employment, an AOR of female workers having been employed for more than 8 years showed a significant increase (1.63, 95% CI = 1.07–2.49).
ConclusionsFemale workers had a higher risk of thyroid cancer than general female population but the difference between NO workers and O workers was not found to be significant in most industrial sectors. Further studies using data with information regarding specific occupational exposures are needed.
Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1186/s40557-018-0259-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Gabriela Maria Berinde, Andreea Iulia Socaciu, Mihai Adrian Socaciu, Andreea Cozma, Armand Gabriel Rajnoveanu, Gabriel Emil Petre, Doina Piciu
Diagnostics.2022; 12(2): 318. CrossRef - Thyroid cancer risks among medical radiation workers in South Korea, 1996–2015
Won Jin Lee, Dale L. Preston, Eun Shil Cha, Seulki Ko, Hyeyeun Lim
Environmental Health.2019;[Epub] CrossRef
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Differences in the performance of health officers at the workplace according to their qualifications
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Yeong-Kwang Kim, Jin-Ha Yoon, Wanhyung Lee, Jihyun Kim, Sung-Shil Lim, Jong-Uk Won
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:35. Published online May 30, 2018
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0246-8
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
Health officers are an integral part of the occupational health service, and there have been studies to identify and improve the role of health officers in the workplace in order to improve the level of health care in the workplace. This study aimed to determine the contribution of health officers to the role of a health officer as prescribed by law and the percentage of health management work performed during work according to their qualifications.
MethodsQuestionnaires were distributed to a total of 4584 workplaces where health officers were hired, and a total of 806 copies (17.58%) were returned. Of these, 336 questionnaires were finally analyzed, after excluding questionnaires missing the main variables. Using the data, the difference of role contributions and the percentage of health care work performed during the whole day according to the qualification of the health officer was analyzed.
ResultsNurses were highly rated in the field of medical care, and industrial hygienists and air environmental engineers were highly rated in terms of chemicals and risk factor management. The percentage of health care work performed during the whole day differed according to the size of the workplace and industrial classification, but it was generally the lowest among air environmental engineers.
ConclusionsHealth officers play a very different role in the workplace depending on their qualification, and they need support for areas of other qualification. In order to effectively manage the health of the staff at a workplace, it is necessary to consider the development of a support system for small- and medium-sized enterprises and adjust the conditions of employment of the health officer according to the law.
Research Article
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Mental disorders among workers in the healthcare industry: 2014 national health insurance data
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Min-Seok Kim, Taeshik Kim, Dongwook Lee, Ji-hoo Yook, Yun-Chul Hong, Seung-Yup Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon, Mo-Yeol Kang
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:31. Published online May 3, 2018
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0244-x
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Abstract
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- Background
Numerous studies have shown that healthcare professionals are exposed to psychological distress. However, since most of these studies assessed psychological distress using self-reporting questionnaires, the magnitude of the problem is largely unknown. We evaluated the risks of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and any psychiatric disorders in workers in healthcare industry using Korea National Health Insurance (NHI) claims data from 2014, which are based on actual diagnoses instead of self-evaluation.
MethodsWe used Korea 2014 NHI claims data and classified employees as workers in the healthcare industry, based on companies in the NHI database that were registered with hospitals, clinics, public healthcare, and other medical services. To estimate the standardized prevalence of the selected mental health disorders, we calculated the prevalence of diseases in each age group and sex using the age distribution of the Korea population. To compare the risk of selected mental disorders among workers in the healthcare industry with those in other industries, we considered age, sex, and income quartile characteristics and conducted propensity scored matching.
ResultsIn the matching study, workers in healthcare industry had higher odds ratios for mood disorders (1.13, 95% CI: 1.11–1.15), anxiety disorders (1.15, 95% CI: 1.13–1.17), sleep disorders (2.21, 95% CI: 2.18–2.24), and any psychiatric disorders (1.44, 95% CI: 1.43–1.46) than the reference group did. Among workers in healthcare industry, females had higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders than males, but the odds ratios for psychiatric disorders, compared to the reference group, were higher in male workers in healthcare industry than in females.
ConclusionsThe prevalence of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and all psychiatric disorders for workers in the healthcare industry was higher than that of other Korean workers. The strikingly high prevalence of sleep disorders could be related to the frequent night-shifts in these professions. The high prevalence of mental health problems among workers in healthcare industry is alarming and requires prompt action to protect the health of the “protectors.”
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Research Article
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The relationship between spontaneous abortion and female workers in the semiconductor industry
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Heechan Kim, Ho-Jang Kwon, Jeongbae Rhie, Sinye Lim, Yun-Dan Kang, Sang-Yong Eom, Hyungryul Lim, Jun-Pyo Myong, Sangchul Roh
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2017;29:49. Published online October 9, 2017
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-017-0204-x
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
This study investigated the relationship between job type and the risk for spontaneous abortion to assess the reproductive toxicity of female workers in the semiconductor industry.
MethodsA questionnaire survey was administered to current female workers of two semiconductor manufacturing plants in Korea. We included female workers who became pregnant at least 6 months after the start of their employment with the company. The pregnancy outcomes of 2,242 female workers who experienced 4,037 pregnancies were investigated. Personnel records were used to assign the subjects to one of three groups: fabrication process workers, packaging process workers, and clerical workers. To adjust for within-person correlations between pregnancies, a generalized estimating equation was used. The logistic regression analysis was limited to the first pregnancy after joining the company to satisfy the assumption of independence among pregnancies. Moreover, we stratified the analysis by time period (pregnancy in the years prior to 2008 vs. after 2009) to reflect differences in occupational exposure based on semiconductor production periods.
ResultsThe risk for spontaneous abortion in female semiconductor workers was not significantly higher for fabrication and packaging process workers than for clerical workers. However, when we stratified by time period, the odds ratio for spontaneous abortion was significantly higher for packaging process workers who became pregnant prior to 2008 when compared with clerical workers (odds ratio: 2.21; 95% confidence interval: 1.01–4.81).
ConclusionsWhen examining the pregnancies of female semiconductor workers that occurred prior to 2008, packaging process workers showed a significantly higher risk for spontaneous abortions than did clerical workers. The two semiconductor production periods in our study (prior to 2008 vs. after 2009) had different automated processes, chemical exposure levels, and working environments. Thus, the conditions prior to 2008 may have increased the risk for spontaneous abortions in packaging process workers in the semiconductor industry.
Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (10.1186/s40557-017-0204-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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- Three cases of congenital diseases in the children of female semiconductor workers at a company recognized by the Occupational Disease Adjudication Committee
Chandu Kim, Hoekyeong Seo, Jihyung Choi, Younghwa Choi, Yongjin Kim, Kyung-Eun Lee, Shinhee Ye
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2025; 37: e9. CrossRef - Associations between maternal occupational exposures and pregnancy outcomes among Chinese nurses: a nationwide study
Zhaoqiang Jiang, Junfei Chen, Lingfang Feng, Mingying Jin, Shuang Liu, Lina Wang, Jing Wang, Changyan Yu, Jianhong Zhou, Yan Ye, Liangying Mei, Wenlan Yu, Xing Zhang, Jianlin Lou
Reproductive Health.2023;[Epub] CrossRef - Prevention of occupational diseases from chemicals due to development of the semiconductor industry
Kyung-Taek Rim
Toxicology and Environmental Health Sciences.2022; 14(1): 1. CrossRef - Health Status, Health-Related Factors and Work Environment in Korean Semiconductor Workers between 1984–2012: A Qualitative Study and a Cross-Sectional Study
Kyungsik Kim, Ho Kyung Sung, Jieun Jang, Eunyoung E. Suh, Kwan Lee, Sue K. Park
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(10): 6286. CrossRef - In missed abortion the decrease of IGF-1 down-regulates PI3K/AKT signaling pathway reducing the secretion of progesterone and β-hCG
Weitao Liang, Tianyuan Zhu, Na Tan, Guangzhuang Jing, Li'ao Xie, Yuhui Dang, Zhilan Li
Growth Hormone & IGF Research.2022; 65: 101479. CrossRef - Non-Motherhood between Obligation and Choice: Statistical Analysis Based on Permutation Tests of Spontaneous and Induced Abortion Rates in the Italian Context
Angela Alibrandi, Lavinia Merlino, Claudio Guarneri, Ylenia Ingrasciotta, Agata Zirilli
Healthcare.2022; 10(8): 1514. CrossRef - Pregnancy, childbirth, and puerperium outcomes in female firefighters in Korea
Juha Park, Yeon-Soon Ahn, Min-Gi Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2020;[Epub] CrossRef - Semiconductor Work and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Associated with Male Workers: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Kyung-Hwa Choi, Hyunjoo Kim, Myoung-Hee Kim, Ho-Jang Kwon
Annals of Work Exposures and Health.2019; 63(8): 870. CrossRef - Semiconductor Work and the Risk of Spontaneous Abortion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Kyungsik Kim, Ho Sung, Kwan Lee, Sue Park
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2019; 16(23): 4626. CrossRef
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Research Article
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Characteristics of occupational musculoskeletal disorders of five sectors in service industry between 2004 and 2013
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Hyun-Woo Choi, Young-Ki Kim, Dong-Mug Kang, Jong-Eun Kim, Bo-Young Jang
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2017;29:41. Published online September 19, 2017
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-017-0198-4
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
‘Work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs)’ have been mostly reported in the manufacturing industry but recently the occurrence of industrial injuries has been constantly increasing in the service industry. This research is going to analyze the data about workers’ compensation for WRMSDs in five different service sectors and identify characteristics of occupations with the highest approved occupations.
MethodsAccording to the data released from the Korea Worker’s Compensation & Welfare Service, the overview of 12,730 cases of workers’ compensation for WRMSDs in five service sectors from 2004 to 2013 is going to be analyzed and the source data is going to be classified by the Korean Standard Classification of Occupations to select the top five occupations that have the highest number of approval.
ResultsAfter selecting each five occupations from the service sector that have work related musculoskeletal disorders, the result showed that the occupation with the highest number of approval in the health and social care sector were the early childhood educators, cooks in the school canteens in education services sector, garbage collectors in the sanitation and similar services sector, deliverymen in wholesale and retail, consumer goods repair and building cleaners in general management businesses such as those in building maintenance. The major event observed in the top five occupations was the overexertion and reaction as a cause of WRMSDs. The day when the WRMSDs mostly occurred was on Monday and the most likely time was 10 am. The median days away from work and lost working days are 29–90 days and 0–50 days respectively. The difference in each occupation was observed in year of service, age, and gender.
Conclusions83.21% of the approved cases of workers’ compensation for WRMSDs occurred in the top 25 occupations in all of the five service sectors, which meant that the approval of workers’ compensation is concentrated in specific occupations. This research is going to suggest preventive measures for work related musculoskeletal disorders in the service industry and to help prioritize the preventive measures.
Trial registrationNot applicable.
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Research Article
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Levels of blood lead and urinary cadmium in industrial complex residents in Ulsan
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Sang Hoon Kim, Yang Ho Kim, Hyun Chan An, Joo Hyun Sung, Chang Sun Sim
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2017;29:26. Published online June 26, 2017
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-017-0179-7
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
Populations neighboring industrial complexes are at an increased health risk, due to constant exposure to various potentially hazardous compounds released during industrial production activity. Although there are many previous studies that focus on occupational exposure to heavy metals, studies that focused on environmental exposure to lead and cadmium are relatively rare. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the extent of the environmental exposure of heavy metals in residents of industrial area.
MethodsFour areas in close proximity to the Ulsan petrochemical industrial complex and the Onsan national industrial complex were selected to be included in the exposure group, and an area remotely located from these industrial complexes was selected as the non-exposure group. Among the residents of our study areas, a total of 1573 subjects aged 20 years and older were selected and all study subjects completed a written questionnaire. Blood and urine samples were obtained from about one third of the subjects (465 subjects) who provided informed consent for biological sample collection. Total 429 subjects (320 subjects from exposure area, 109 subjects from non-exposure area) were included in final analysis.
ResultsThe geometric mean blood lead level among the subjects in the exposed group was 2.449 μg/dL, which was significantly higher than the non-exposure group’s level of 2.172 μg/dL. Similarly, the geometric mean urine cadmium levels between the two groups differed significantly, at 1.077 μg/g Cr. for the exposed group, and 0.709 μg/g Cr. for the non-exposure group.
In a multiple linear regression analysis to determine the relationship between blood lead level and related factors, the results showed that blood lead level had a significant positive correlation with age, the male, exposure area, and non-drinkers. In the same way, urine cadmium level was positively correlated with age, the female, exposure area, and smokers.
ConclusionsThis study found that blood lead levels and urine cadmium levels were significantly higher among the residents of industrial areas than among the non-exposure area residents, which is thought to be due to the difference in environmental exposure of lead and cadmium. Furthermore, it was clear that at a low level of exposure, differences in blood lead or urine cadmium levels based on age, gender, and smoking status were greater than the differences based on area of residence. Therefore, when evaluating heavy metal levels in the body at a low level of exposure, age, gender, and smoking status must be adjusted, as they are significant confounding factors.
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Case Report
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A case of laryngeal cancer induced by exposure to asbestos in a construction site supervisor
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Sooyong Roh, Soyong Park, Gyeong Tae, Jaechul Song
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2016;28:34. Published online August 8, 2016
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-016-0114-3
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Abstract
PDF
- Background
Construction site supervisors are exposed to many chemicals, dusts, and metals including asbestos. Asbestos is a hazardous chemical that is carcinogenic. Laryngeal cancer is not a rare disease in Korea. The most common causes of this disease are tobacco and alcohol, and representative occupational cause is asbestos. However, up to now, no case of laryngeal cancer induced by asbestos has been reported in Korea. In this study, we report such a case in a construction site supervisor.
Case presentationA 60-year-old man who had been experiencing hoarseness for 2 months was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. The pathologic diagnosis was squamous cell carcinoma in situ, based on examination of a biopsy specimen obtained by resection of the lesion. The patient had been exposed to asbestos for 38 years at construction sites where he worked until diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. He had been exposed to asbestos when demolishing buildings and inspecting materials.
ConclusionThe patient in this case worked with construction materials including asbestos and supervised construction for 38 years, and was thus exposed to asbestos at construction sites. Much of the asbestos was highly concentrated especially during demolition processes. We therefore consider the laryngeal cancer of this patient to be a work-related disease.
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Research Article
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Factors related to the physician and the employer influencing successful return to work in Korea: results from the first panel study of workers’ compensation insurance (PSWCI)
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Wanhyung Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jaehoon Roh, Yeong-Kwang Kim, Hongdeok Seok, June-Hee Lee, Jong-Uk Won
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2015;27:27. Published online December 11, 2015
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-015-0076-x
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Abstract
PDF
- Objectives
This study aims to investigate associated factors including the physician and the employer of successful return to work (RTW) in occupationally injured workers.
MethodsThis study is based on the first panel study of workers’ compensation insurance (PSWCI), published in June 2014. The PSWCI is a sample survey of occupationally injured workers who completed medical care in 2012 (89,921 people). A total of 2000 subjects were sampled based on sex, age, nine metropolitan-based regions, disability ratings, duration of rehabilitation, and whether vocational rehabilitation service was used. We divided the study population into two groups: return to work (RTW) group (job retention, reemployment, unpaid family worker, and self-employment), and non-RTW group (joblessness and economical inactivity). The odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) related to differences in basic characteristics, part of physician and employer-related factors between those who succeeded to RTW and those who did not were measured using multivariable logistic regression model.
ResultsThe success of RTW is 70.6 % (n = 1412) among participants. The ORs (95 % CI) of the participants belonging to RTW who received periodic recovery assessment from the medical care institution and the physician are 1.51 (1.07–2.13). The ORs (95 % CI) are 1.68 (1.05–2.69) for the RTW group who received work ability assessment and referral for vocational return. When the employer maintains the relationship with the occupationally injured worker, the worker has 1.39 times higher odds (95 % CI: 1.41–2.26) of the RTW group compared to the non-RTW group.
ConclusionsThe physician and the employer have a significant impact on the RTW.
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BMJ Open.2021; 11(4): e039948. CrossRef - Effect of professional certification on employees’ return-to-work rate after occupational injuries in Korea: focusing on vulnerable groups
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Codi White, Rebecca A. Green, Samantha Ferguson, Sarah L. Anderson, Caroline Howe, Jing Sun, Nicholas Buys
Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation.2019; 29(3): 636. CrossRef - Changes in Income after an Industrial Accident According to Industry and Return-to-Work Status
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International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2019; 16(14): 2603. CrossRef - Income Changes Due to Disability Ratings and Participation in Economic Activities Caused by Industrial Accidents: A Population-Based Study of Data from the Fourth Panel Study of Workers’ Compensation Insurance (PSWCI)
Suk Won Bae, Sehyun Yun, Ye Seol Lee, Jin-Ha Yoon, Jaehoon Roh, Jong-Uk Won
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2018; 15(11): 2478. CrossRef - Prediction of Return-to-original-work after an Industrial Accident Using Machine Learning and Comparison of Techniques
Jongin Lee, Hyoung-Ryoul Kim
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Research Article
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Prevalence and determinants of work related injuries among small and medium scale industry workers in Bahir Dar Town, north west Ethiopia
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Getnet Abebe Molla, Waju Beyene Salgedo, Yohannes Kebede Lemu
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Ann Occup Environ Med 2015;27:12. Published online April 8, 2015
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-015-0062-3
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Abstract
PDF
- Objectives
To assess the prevalence and determinants of work-related injuries among small and medium scale industrial workers in Bahir Dar town, northwest Ethiopia.
MethodCross sectional comparative study design was used. Purposive sampling method was used to choose the specific Kebele 14 of the study area, for its relatively high number of industries. The study units were stratified into small and medium scale industries. All workers who were available at the time of interview were included in the study. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was analyzed using SPSS for windows 16.0.
ResultA total of 328 and 655 workers from small and medium-scale industries respectively participated in the study. Seven hundred sixty nine (78.2%) were males. Three hundred thirty six workers (34.2%) reported that they had experienced work-related injuries. Sex, monthly salary, age, work experience and use of personal protective equipment were found to be different in the small and medium industries (P < 0.05).
ConclusionThere was a high prevalence of work related injuries. Sociodemographic, socioeconomic, personal work behavior and the working environment have contributed for the injuries. Work-related injuries are assumed to be preventable with the provision of occupational health programs in workplaces. Thus it is recommended that the owners of industries need to focus on training and installing safer work environment and Further studies with large-scale coverage and prospective study designs are warranted.
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Archives of Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology.2025; 76(1): 31. CrossRef - Work-related injuries and occupational safety practices among sugar factory workers in Tanzania: A cross-sectional study
Isaya Charles Mwera, Magnus Michael Sichalwe, Simon H. Mamuya, Luco Patson Mwelange
Sage Open Medicine.2025;[Epub] CrossRef - Research on occupational health and safety management in the context of big data
Qianrui Hwang, Min Yao, Shugang Li, Fang Wang, Zheng Li, Tongshuang Liu
Frontiers in Public Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef - Occupational health and safety practices and associated factors among workers in Ethiopia’s Metehara and Wonji sugar industries: a convergent parallel mixed design
Mitiku Bonsa Debela, Negussie Deyessa, Achenef Motbainor Begosew, Muluken Azage
BMJ Open.2023; 13(2): e065382. CrossRef - Prevalence and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among cashiers in small-scale businesses: a cross-sectional study in Ethiopia
Amensisa Hailu Tesfaye, Belay Desye, Garedew Tadege Engdaw
BMJ Open.2023; 13(7): e070746. CrossRef - Factors contributing to occupational injuries among workers in the construction, manufacturing, and mining industries in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Mitiku Bonsa Debela, Muluken Azage, Achenef Motbainor Begosaw, Negussie Deyessa Kabeta
Journal of Public Health Policy.2022; 43(4): 487. CrossRef - Occupational injury and associated factors among cement factories workers in central Ethiopia
Demissu Seyoum Fresenbet, Ararso Tafese Olana, Abera Shibiru Tulu, Kababa Temesgen Danusa
Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology.2022;[Epub] CrossRef - Occupational Injuries and Associated Factors Among Small-Scale Woodwork Industry Workers in Hawassa, Southern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Belete Girma, Amanuel Ejeso, Zemachu Ashuro, Mekonnen Birhanie Aregu
Environmental Health Insights.2022;[Epub] CrossRef - Economic costs and Predictors of occupation-related Injuries in Ethiopian sugar industries from the Employer’s perspective: top-down approach and friction method
Mitiku Bonsa Debela, Muluken Azage, Negussie Deyessa, Achenef Motbainor Begosaw
BMC Public Health.2022;[Epub] CrossRef - Prevalence of Occupational Injury among Workers in the Construction, Manufacturing, and Mining Industries in Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Mitiku Bonsa Debela, Muluken Azage, Achenef Motbainor Begosaw
Journal of Occupational Health and Epidemiology.2021; 10(2): 113. CrossRef - Magnitude of occupational exposure to bagasse dust and associated factors among Metehara Sugarcane Factory workers, east Shoa, Ethiopia
Mitiku Bonsa, Getachew Redae Taffere, Mulubirhan Assefa Alemayehu
Journal of Public Health.2019; 27(2): 203. CrossRef - Occupational Injury and Its Correlated Factors among Small-Scale Industry Workers in Towns of Bale Zone, Southeast Ethiopia
Nagasa Dida, Jiregna Darega, Feyisa Lemesa, Jeylan Kassim, Bedasa Woldemichael
Journal of Environmental and Public Health.2019; 2019: 1. CrossRef - Prevalence and injury patterns among electronic waste workers in the informal sector in Nigeria
Chimere May Ohajinwa, Peter M van Bodegom, Martina G Vijver, Adesola O Olumide, Oladele Osibanjo, Willie J G M Peijnenburg
Injury Prevention.2018; 24(3): 185. CrossRef - Recent Trends in Occupational Injuries and Diseases in Argentina: A Panel Data Approach
Valentina Viego, Nicolas Sagui
Occupational Diseases and Environmental Medicine.2015; 03(04): 57. CrossRef
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1,756
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Original Article
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Comparison of Cardiovascular Disease Status Between Large Scale Industry Office and Self Employed Male Workers
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Keun Ho Jang, Won Ju Park, Myeong Bo Kim, Dae Kwang Lee, Hong Jae Chae, Jai Dong Moon
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(2):130-138. Published online June 30, 2011
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.2.130
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Abstract
PDF
- OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study is to compare the cardiovascular disease status between large scale industry office and self employed male workers who have gaps in their intensive health management.
METHODS
The cross sectional study was carried out with subjects composed of 244 shipyard office male workers and 381 self employed male workers, aged 30 to 55 years. They were given a health exam in a general hospital from January 2007 to June 2009. Information was based on data from self-administered questionnaires, physical examination and laboratory results on blood samples. The degree of coronary artery calcification and stenosis was evaluated by a 64 channel multi-detector computed tomography angiography.
RESULTS
The prevalence of hypertension(p<0.01) and diabetes mellitus(p=0.02) and waist circumference(p<0.01) was significantly lower in the shipyard office workers than in self employed workers. Proper drinking(p<0.01) was more commmon in shipyard office workers. The rates of coronary artery calcification and stenosis were estimated to be 18.4% and 11.5% respectively for shipyard office workers and were significantly lower than the 26.5% and 21.5% for self employed workers. After adjustment for age, the probability of coronary artery stenosis in shipyard office workers was lower than in self employed workers (OR=0.56, 95% CI=0.35~0.90).
CONCLUSIONS
The study results verified the benefits of a health promotion and intervention program and the healthy worker effect for cardiovascular diseases. More specifically, it verified the benefits regarding coronary artery stenosis in large scale industry office workers. This result should encourage the establishment of health promotion programs and the study of occupational epidemiology.
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Citations
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- The effect of employment transitions on physical health among the elderly in South Korea: A longitudinal analysis of the Korean Retirement and Income Study
Juyeon Lee, Myoung-Hee Kim
Social Science & Medicine.2017; 181: 122. CrossRef - Association of Work-related Characteristics and Hypertension among White Collar Workers
Chae-Bong Kim, KyooSang Kim
Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2015; 25(3): 418. CrossRef - Comparison of oral health status by metabolic syndrome risk factors in workers
In-Young Ku, Seon-Jeong Moon, Myeong-Seon Lee, Kyung-Hwan Ka
Journal of Korean society of Dental Hygiene.2013; 13(4): 581. CrossRef
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786
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Original Article
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Cognition and Practice on Medical Information Protection of Iudustrial Health Care Manager of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises
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Soo Jin Jeong, Min Kim, Chae Kwan Lee, Chang Hee Lee, Byung Chul Son, Dae Hwan Kim, Jeong Ho Kim, Jong Tae Lee, Goo Rak Chang, Ki Hun Hong, Chun Hui Suh
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(1):53-63. Published online March 31, 2011
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.1.53
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Abstract
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- OBJECTIVES
This research aimed to know the actual condition and problems of medical information protection at a workplace with the target of industrial health care managers of small and medium-sized enterprises.
METHODS
A self-administered questionnaire was given to industrial health-care managers of 216 enterprises from March 15 to May 17, 2010. The questionnaire was produced by referring to the Act on Personal Information Protection of Public Institutions, etc. This research evaluated agreement of cognition and practice according to 10 items of medical information protection using kappa and cross-analysis of significant factors between cognition and practice of medical information protection and general characteristics.
RESULTS
Cognition about medical information protection appeared to be 85.4-97.1% and its practice appeared to be 44.1-95.3%, so practice was lower than cognition. In addition, the agreement of cognition and practice appeared significantly low (kappa 0.082-0.387). The practice of medical information protection tended to be lower when the managers were older and held a higher job title. Health examination results were being delivered only to workers except for an employer (94.2%), but there were many industrial health-care managers who felt discomfort about their work in group occupational health-care systems (58.1%).
CONCLUSIONS
The practice of protecting medical information by industrial health-care managers was clearly lower than the cognition. Therefore, introduction of educational programs about personal information protection and provision of an independent place for group occupational health care service is urgent. In addition, in order to use the health examination results conveniently in group occupational health services, an institutional complement is necessary.
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Citations
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- Information Security in Nursing
Jiwon Kang, GyeongAe Seomun
Advances in Nursing Science.2021; 44(1): 16. CrossRef - Factors Influencing Acceptance of Personal Health Record Apps for Workplace Health Promotion: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study
Hyun Sang Park, Kwang Il Kim, Jae Young Soh, Young Ho Hyun, Sae Kyun Jang, Sol Lee, Ga Young Hwang, Hwa Sun Kim
JMIR mHealth and uHealth.2020; 8(6): e16723. CrossRef - Perception and Performance about Patients' Medical Information Protection in Allied Health College Students
Seon Young Choi, Do Yeon Lim, Il Sun Ko, In Oh Moon
The Journal of Korean Academic Society of Nursing Education.2016; 22(1): 83. CrossRef - Influencing factors on health education performance of nurse in health promoting hospitals
Jinsook Lee, Sohi Kwon
Journal of the Korean Data and Information Science Society.2015; 26(2): 455. CrossRef - A Study on Protecting Patients' Privacy of Obstetric and Gynecologic Nurses
Miok Kim
Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing.2012; 18(4): 268. CrossRef
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744
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Original Article
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Clusters of Pneumoconiosis among Residents Near Cement Factories
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Jong Han Leem, Jae Hwa Cho, Eui Cheol Lee, Jeong Hoon Kim, Dong Hoon Lee, Seung Jun Lee, Ji Young Lee, Hwan Cheol Kim
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2010;22(2):140-145. Published online June 30, 2010
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2010.22.2.140
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Abstract
PDF
- OBJECTIVE: This study investigated case clusters of pneumoconiosis among residents near cement factories in Young_Wol, Korea.
METHODS
There were 1,396 residents of a total 3,418 residents surveyed for this study. Informations on demographics, health-related behaviors (smoking and drinking), past medical history, and clinical symptoms were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. All study participants underwent a physical examination, including chest X-ray, and physicians' interview. Chest CT (computerized tomography) was taken if there was abnormal finding on chest X-ray and physicians' interview.
RESULTS
We detected 5 cases of pneumoconiosis. 2 cases were related to occupational exposure to dust, such as underground mining and the breaking up of concrete. However, 3 cases were not related to occupational or environmental exposure, except that persons were living near cement factories and limestone mines.
CONCLUSION
This study suggests that the long-term exposure of cement dust among residents near cement factories and mines may lead to the development of pneumoconiosis.
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- Environmental impact assessment of cement plants and estimation of pollutant load on environment in India
Madhab Chandra Jena, Sarat Kumar Mishra, Himanshu Sekhar Moharana
International Journal of System Assurance Engineering and Management.2025; 16(7): 2343. CrossRef - Emphysema prevalence related air pollution caused by a cement plant
Hyun Seung Lee, Chul Gab Lee, Dong Hun Kim, Han Soo Song, Min Soo Jung, Jae Yoon Kim, Choong Hee Park, Seung Chul Ahn, Seung Do Yu
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef - Ventilation impairment of residents around a cement plant
Sul Ha Kim, Chul Gab Lee, Han Soo Song, Hyun Seung Lee, Min Soo Jung, Jae Yoon Kim, Choong Hee Park, Seung Chul Ahn, Seung Do Yu
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2015;[Epub] CrossRef - A Study on the Results of Questionnaire Survey and Health Examination for Respiratory Disease among Residents in Briquette Fuel Complex in Ansim, Daegu
Kwan Lee, Hyun-Sul Lim, Min-Gi Kim, Young-Sun Min, Young-Hyun Lee, Sung-Woo Kim, Hye-Sook Choi, Yeon-Soon Ahn, Joon Sakong, Seung-do Yu, Geun-Bae Kim, Mi-Ra Yoon
Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2015; 25(3): 355. CrossRef - Cement dust and environmental diseases
Jong-Han Leem
Journal of the Korean Medical Association.2012; 55(3): 230. CrossRef
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814
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Case Report
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A Case of Silicosis and Pneumothorax in a Workplace Producing Dental Porcerlain
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Youngjoong Kang, Won Jun Choi, Sang Yun Lee, Jong Wan Yun, Hyung Sik Kim, Jong Uk Won, Sang Hwan Han
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2010;22(1):58-63. Published online March 31, 2010
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2010.22.1.58
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Abstract
PDF
- BACKGROUND
Silicosis is more likely to occur in people working in the mining industry. However, workers suffering from silicosis have recently been reported frequently in other areas. We present a case of silicosis occuring in a 43-year-old man who had worked for 20 years in a workplace producing dental porcelain.
CASE
The man was admitted to the emergency room with acute chest pain caused by pneumothorax. Chest X-ray indicated numerous small opacities spread over the whole lung field and a large opacity in the right middle lung field. According to ILO classification, the shape of the small opacities was t/s, the profusion rate was 2/3 and the large opacity was classified into the B category. Following this diagnosis of silicosis, the patient's medical history and work exposure history were examined. According to his medical history, he had undergone closed thoracostomy in 2006 because he had suffered pneumothorax twice (in 2005 and 2006) and his smoking history was 7 pack years. In particular, he had been exposed to silica dust for 20 years in his workplace.
CONCLUSION
Despite the absence of any specific risk factor that caused pneumothorax, the patient suffered this condition three times. All clinical results and the progress of his physical symptoms, including radiologic findings from chest X-ray and computed tomography, clearly supported the diagnosis of silicosis. Except for exposure to silica dust in the workplace, no other risk factors causing silicosis were found. Therefore, he was finally diagnosed as having silicosis caused by exposure to silica dust in the workplace and followed by pneumothorax.
Original Article
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Occupational Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Cases Evaluated by Workers' Compensation in Korea
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Hwa Pyung Lee, Dong Hee Koh, Eui Cheol Lee
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2009;21(1):53-62. Published online March 31, 2009
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2009.21.1.53
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Abstract
PDF
- OBJECTIVES
To analyse the characteristics of occupational COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) cases that were evaluated by the Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute (OSHRI) of the Korea Occupational Safety & Health Agency (KOSHA).
METHODS
Using the OSHRI database from KOSHA, we collected 13 cases of occupational COPD that had been evaluated from 1998 to 2007.
RESULTS
Four cases had been evaluated as occupational COPD: 1) a nonsmoking road sweeper exposed to automobile exhaust gases and trash dust; 2) an oxygen welding worker exposed to cadmium fumes; 3) a cotton mill air conditioner cleaning worker exposed to cotton dust; and 4) a foundry grinding worker exposed to dust, gases, vapors and fumes. Nine cases had been evaluated as non-occupational COPD: 1) 4 cases in which smoking was determined to be the main cause rather than occupational exposure; 2) 1 case that was evaluated as another respiratory disease (severe tuberculosis sequelae); 3) 1 case that had been misdiagnosed as COPD; 4) 2 cases in which the exposure levels in the workplace environments were too low; and 5) 1 case that had developed before the employment. Among these 13 cases, a shipyard grinding worker had been evaluated in 2006 as having had a low occupational hazard, but a similar case (a foundry grinding worker) was evaluated as having had a high hazard in 2007.
CONCLUSIONS
Proper evaluation of occupational COPD demands an accurate diagnosis of COPD itself and also the exclusion of other respiratory diseases that have similar symptoms; an investigation of the relevant occupatioonal hazards and the amount of the exposure; and a consideration of smoking history. The evaluation should also take into account any substantial loss of life due to occupational hazards as well as any disease-free periods.
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Citations
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- Characteristics of forklift accidents in korean industrial sites
Kwan Woo Kim
Work.2021; 68(3): 679. CrossRef - Factors Associated With Obstructive Pattern Spirometry In Shipyard Workers
Jahyun Kim, Young Wook Kim, Chang Ho Chae, Jun Seok Son, Chan Woo Kim, Jun Ho Lee, Hyung Wook Park, Byung Mann Cho
Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2015; 25(4): 525. CrossRef - Work-related COPD after years of occupational exposure
YounMo Cho, JongIn Lee, Min Choi, WonSeon Choi, Jun-Pyo Myong, Hyoung-Ryoul Kim, Jung-Wan Koo
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2015;[Epub] CrossRef
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999
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Original Article
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The Status and Characteristics of Industrial Accidents for Migrant Workers in Korea Compared with Native Workers
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Sun Wung Lee, Kyoo Sang Kim, Tae Woo Kim
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(4):351-361. Published online December 31, 2008
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.4.351
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Abstract
PDF
- OBJECTIVES
To analyze the status and characteristics of the industrial accidents of migrant workers with comparison to those of native workers.
METHODS
The industrial accident rate of migrant workers was estimated by the annual number of industrial accidents divided by the total number of annual labor population multiplied by the annual admission rate of industrial accident insurance. The characteristics of industrial accidents for total migrant workers were assessed and compared with those of total native workers (from 2004 to 2006). In addition, we compared the industrial accidental characteristics of the 7,210 native workers and the 458 migrant workers employed in the Incheon area who received compensation from the industrial accident insurance in 2006.
RESULTS
In 2004, 2005 and 2006, the total annual industrial accident rates of the migrant workers were 0.93%, 0.90%, and 1.06%, the injury accident rates were 0.90%, 0.86%, and 1.00%, the number of injury deaths per 10,000 persons were 2.29, 2.22, and 2.39, and the disease rates were 0.011%, 0.014%, and 0.027%, respectively. As for the cause of injury, rolled/jammed and cutting-type injuries were more prevalent in the migrant workers. With the standardization of job category, industry size and work tenure, the rolled/jammed-type injury was still significantly more prevalent in the migrant workers.
CONCLUSIONS
Even considering the exclusion of the possible missing numbers of the submission of industrial accident cases, and the numbers of workplaces not registered for industrial accident insurance, the publicized statistics confirm the higher industrial accident rate of migrant workers compared to ative workers. Especially, the injury death rate was 2.2 times higher for migrant workers than for native workers in 2006. In addition, the remarkably lower occupational disease rate of the migrant workers compared to that of the native workers, suggested that numerous cases of disease were not reported. Finally, the lack of communication and former education that usually lead to the most prevalent injury type, i.e., the rolled/jammed type, supported our conclusion that the migrant workers were in need of more education regarding workplace safety.
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Sun Yeop Lee, Woong-Han Kim, Jongho Heo
International Journal for Equity in Health.2024;[Epub] CrossRef - Vulnerable Factors Affecting Urinary N-Methylformamide Concentration among Migrant Workers in Manufacturing Industries in Comparison with Native Workers in the Republic of Korea (2012–2019)
Kyung-Eun Lee, Kayoung Park, Dong Joon Park, Sungkyun Park
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2022; 19(20): 13450. CrossRef - Characteristics of forklift accidents in korean industrial sites
Kwan Woo Kim
Work.2021; 68(3): 679. CrossRef - Perceived Risk Factors for Suicide among Nepalese Migrant Workers in South Korea
Madhu Sudhan Atteraya, Nasser B. Ebrahim, Shreejana Gnawali
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2021; 18(12): 6368. CrossRef - A Study of the Development of Alcohol Use Disorder in Muslim Immigrant Workers in Korea
Sun Kyung Kang, Ji Hyun Ro, Seungnam Shin
Journal of Social Service Research.2020; 46(2): 187. CrossRef - Factors Affecting Unmet Healthcare Needs of Working Married Immigrant Women in South Korea
Jinseon Yi, Insook Lee
Journal of Korean Academy of Community Health Nursing.2018; 29(1): 41. CrossRef - Human resource factors associated with workplace safety and health education of small manufacturing businesses in Korea
Kyoung-Ok Park
Journal of Occupational Health.2018; 60(1): 94. CrossRef - Multiple Risk Factors for Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses in Korean-Chinese Migrant Workers
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Duckhee Chae, Kwan Hyung Yi, Soye Im, Sung Hye Cho
Workplace Health & Safety.2015; 63(1): 18. CrossRef - Effects of a 12 week self‐managed stretching program among Korean–Chinese female migrant workers in Korea: A randomized trial
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Duckhee Chae, JoEllen Wilbur, Arlene Miller, Kyongeun Lee, Hwaeun Jin
Japan Journal of Nursing Science.2014; 11(2): 121. CrossRef - A basic research on risk control measure for reducing the fishermen's occupational accident in offshore and coastal fishing vessel
Wook-Sung Kim, Young-Bok Cho, Seok-Jae Kim, Kyong-Jin Ryu, Yoo-Won Lee
Journal of the Korean society of Fisheries Technology.2014; 50(4): 614. CrossRef - Experiences of Middle-aged Korean-Chinese Female Migrant Workers in Korea: With Focus on Risk Factors in Work-related Musculoskeletal Diseases
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Duckhee Chae, Kyongeun Lee, Meenhye Lee
Journal of Korean Academy of Community Health Nursing.2013; 24(2): 185. CrossRef - The Prevalence of Chronic Diseases among Migrants in Korea According to Their Length of Stay and Residential Status
Choong-Hyung Lee, Jae-Moon Yun, Jong-Soo Han, Sang-Min Park, Young-Su Park, Seung-Kwon Hong
Korean Journal of Family Medicine.2012; 33(1): 34. CrossRef - Application of Community-Based Participatory Research Principles
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Duckhee Chae, Kyongeun Lee, Meenhye Lee
Workplace Health & Safety.2012; 60(7): 313. CrossRef - I never expected to be a disabled person in another country: the stories of migrant workers with acquired disabilities in Korea
Kyung Mee Kim
Disability & Society.2011; 26(5): 553. CrossRef - Prevalence of Low Back Symptom and Impact of Job Stress among Working Women as Clinical Nurses in University Hospitals
Kyung-Jae Lee, Joo Ja Kim, Jeung-Im Kim
Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing.2011; 17(5): 484. CrossRef - Psychosocial Factors and Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Southeastern Asian Female Workers Living in Korea
Hyeonkyeong Lee, Hyunmi Ahn, Chang Gi Park, Sun Jung Kim, Sun Hye Moon
Safety and Health at Work.2011; 2(2): 183. CrossRef - A Comparison of Blood Lead Levels between Migrant and Native Lead Workers Before and After Implementation of a New Employment Permit System for Migrant Workers
Nam-Soo KIM, Byung-Kook LEE
Industrial Health.2011; 49(2): 235. CrossRef
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Case Report
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A Case-study of a Plastering and Waterproof Worker Suffering from Silicosis and Lung Cancer
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Kyoo Sang Kim, Min Heui Jo, Byung kyu Kim
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(2):153-159. Published online June 30, 2008
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.2.153
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Abstract
PDF
- OBJECTIVES
We report on a case-study of a silicosis sufferer with lung cancer, who was exposed to cement dust through plastering and waterproof work in the construction industry.
METHODS
We reviewed his personal history including employment, medical record and estimated level of carcinogenic materials in the work place in order to evaluate the possible source of his lung cancer.
RESULTS
The patient was a non-smoker and there was no family history of lung cancer. His medical record did not reveal anything of concern. He was exposed to cement dust while he had worked for 20 years as a plasterer and waterproof worker. After complaining of chest pain, he was examined and subsequently diagnosed with lung cancer (RUL, adenocarcinoma; cT4N2M1). He was treated in a hospital for 3 months before passing away. Radiological evaluation by high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) revealed micronodules with a profusion category 1 (p/p, 1/1) in the perilymphatic distribution, which indicated silicosis. Small amounts of cement dust which included silica was identified by environmental evaluation of his work place. He never worked with asbestos related material, which was confirmed by HRCT examination.
CONCLUSIONS
We concluded that the patient's silicosis with lung cancer was an occupational-caused disease due to exposure to cement dust.
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- Analysis of Cost Benefit Related to Appointing a Health Care Manager in the Construction Industry
Hye-Sun Jung, Jee-Seon Yi, In-Jae Shin, Eun-Hi Choi
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2016; 25(2): 130. CrossRef - Assessment for the Physiological Workload of Warterproof Workers
Tae-Kyung Lim, Sang-Min Park, Dong-Eun Lee
Journal of the Architectural Institute of Korea Structure & Construction.2015; 31(6): 33. CrossRef - Occupational Cancers with Chemical Exposure and their Prevention in Korea: A Literature Review
Kyung-Taek Rim
Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention.2013; 14(6): 3379. CrossRef - Occupational Respiratory Cancer in Korea
Hye-Eun Lee, Hyoung Ryoul Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S94. CrossRef
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Original Article
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Five-year Industrial Accidents of Ship-building Workers at a Ship-Yard
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Chang Yoon Kim, Man Joong Jeon, Dae Hee Byun
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2003;15(4):436-445. Published online December 31, 2003
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2003.15.4.436
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Abstract
PDF
- OBJECTIVES
This study evaluated the status of industrial accidents at a ship-yard in Korea in order to provide the basic materials for preventing further industrial accidents.
METHODS
This study reviewed and analyzed the records of 252 industrial accidents that occurred in a ship-yard at Ulsan city from January 1 1997 until December 31st, 2001 according to age, the work career, the job department, the day of the week, the occurrence time, the part of body injured, and the accident type.
RESULTS
There were a total of 252 industrial accidents over the five years. The incidence of industrial accidents per year were 17.38, 26.99, 16.44, 11.35, 14.50 per 1,000 persons from 1997 to 2001, respectively. The frequency of industrial accidents per year were 11.56, 11.23, 6.27, 4.42, 5.79 per one million man hours from 1997 to 2001, respectively. The intensity of industrial accidents per year was 1.67, 0.18, 4.32 per 1,000 man hours from 1999 to 2001, respectively. The highest incidence occurred in the over 50 age group (33.87 per 1,000 persons). Regarding the incidence according to the work career, it was highest in those who had worked for less than 1 year (39.76 per 1,000 persons). The incidence in those working in high places and those using heavy materials were higher than the others. The most frequent day of the week was Monday (19.8%), which was followed by Friday (16.7%) and Saturday (15.9%). The most frequent time of an accident was 15:00-16:59(25.8%), which was followed by 08:00-09:59(24.2%), 10:00-11:59(20.2%). The most frequent part of the body injured was the low back (28.6%), which was followed by the lower extremities (24.2%), and the upper extremities (23.0%). The types of industrial accidents were stenosis (27.0%) to have been happened most and upset (19.8%), fall down (14.7%), hard movement (12.3%), and falling (9.1%).
CONCLUSIONS
The above results suggests that a more precise system of reporting industrial accidents will be needed in order to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the industrial accident statistics. In addition, the preventive activities for back injury, stenosis, and fall down are needed in order to prevent industrial accidents at ship-yards in Korea. Furthermore, the strengthening of a continuous health education program will be necessary for beginners, older workers, and those working in high places and using heavy materials.
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Citations
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- The Prediction of Industrial Accident Rate in Korea: A Time Series Analysis
Eunsuk Choi, Gyeong-Suk Jeon, Won Kee Lee, Young Sun Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2016; 25(1): 65. CrossRef - A basic research on risk control measure for reducing the fishermen's occupational accident in offshore and coastal fishing vessel
Wook-Sung Kim, Young-Bok Cho, Seok-Jae Kim, Kyong-Jin Ryu, Yoo-Won Lee
Journal of the Korean society of Fisheries Technology.2014; 50(4): 614. CrossRef - Ergonomic Research Trends in the Shipbuilding Industry: Present and the Future
Yu-Chang Kim
Journal of the Ergonomics Society of Korea.2012; 31(1): 131. CrossRef - The Actual State of Industrial Accidents in Small-medium Manufacturing Industries
Seong-Ja Hong, Man-Joong Jeon, Chang-Yoon Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2011; 20(1): 93. CrossRef
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924
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Original Article
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The Experience of Occupational Health Care Providers in the Government-funded Subsidized Occupational Health Program for Small Scale Industries: Use of Focus Group Interview
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Young Ran Han, Soo Geun Kim, Eun Hee Ha
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2002;14(4):392-407. Published online December 31, 2002
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2002.14.4.392
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Abstract
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- OBJECTIVE:This study was conducted to provide the fundamental information to prepare better strategies based on the experiences of occupational health care providers who are involved in the Government-funded subsidized occupational health programs for small scale industries.
METHODS
The focus group methodology was used in this study.The data was collected using focus group interviews and analyzed in the framework of the Grounded theory method as mapped by Strauss and Corbin(1990). The subjects enrolled in this study included 20 occupational health care providers in the Government-funded subsidized occupational health program for the SSI;6 doctors and 14 nurses.
RESULTS
We identified 69 concepts,28 sub-categories and 5 categories(Table 2).The categories were the Program's Goals, Various Services,Difficulties in Implement Services, Program Evaluation,and Suggestions for Alternative Plans.
CONCLUSIONS
This program showed that autonomous health management ability has not changed although the possibility for small scale industries to start the health management arose by acknowledging the importance of the health management in the work-place. A successful program should provided a practical service that is planned by the characteristics and the requirements of the workers,a better service than the standard, more visiting times,and a trusting relationship among workers. The occupational health agency's quality and the health manager's specialty needs to be improved and the health manager's authority should be consolidated. An actively cooperative triangular relation among the Labor Department/KOSHA, service organizations, and the workplace is required.In addition,alternative plans were suggested.These included various programs for planning an autonomous service suitable for the quality of the workplaces,a model set-up suitable for the quality of the workplaces,and a role model set-up for the health manager.
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- An Exploration of Contextual Aspects that Influence Cardiovascular Disease Risks Perceived by Workers in a Small–Medium-Sized Workplace
Jin Ah Kim, Won Ju Hwang, Juhye Jin
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2020; 17(14): 5155. CrossRef - Validation of Performance Indicators for Evaluation of Workplace Health Promotion
Seung Hee Ho, Young Moon Chae
American Journal of Health Promotion.2015; 29(6): 402. CrossRef - Effects of health and safety problem recognition on small business facility investment
Jisu Park, Harin Jeong, Sujin Hong, Jong-Tae Park, Dae-Sung Kim, Jongseo Kim, Hae-Joon Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2013;[Epub] CrossRef
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754
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Original Article
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Factors Associated With the Personal Protective Equipments(PPEs) Wearing of Workers in Small Scale Industries
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Yong Kyu Kim, Hyun Joo Kim, Soo Jin Lee, Eun Chul Jang, Sang Cheol Rho, Jae Chul Song
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2002;14(3):315-325. Published online September 30, 2002
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2002.14.3.315
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Abstract
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- OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify the factors associated with the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in small scale industries.
METHODS
In a cross-sectional study, the data were obtained from self-administered questionnaires, a special health examination and the industrial hygiene records. The study included 230 workers in small-scale industries (the print industry and automobile repair shops), which were provided with a subsidiary occupational health program funded by government in 1998. The authors used the Precede-Proceed model.
RESULTS
Among the subjects who were recommended to wear a PPE, 32.7% (35/107) wore the gas/vapor respirators, 43.9 % (101/230) wore the particulate respirators, and 44.3 % (102/230) wore hearing aids. Among them, 64.3 % (148/230) wore one of the above PPE. The wearing of PPE wearing was associated with knowledge (OR=2.34), the value of prevention (OR=3.46), social support (OR=2.78), the type of task (OR=2.18-4.47), and income level (OR=7.64).
CONCLUSIONS
In small scale industries, the proportion workers wearing PPE was low. To increase this proportion, the reinforcing, enabling, and environmental factors as well as the predisposing factors need to be modified.
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Sueji Seo, Saemi Shin, Sanghoon Byeon
Applied Sciences.2024; 14(13): 5510. CrossRef - A Study on the Status of Management for Personal Protective Equipments & Fume Hoods in University Research Laboratories
In-Kyu Park, Sa-Woo Lee, Jong-Hyeon Jung, Young Gyu Phee
Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2014; 24(2): 229. CrossRef - Change of Stages and Related Factors for Wearing of Hearing Protection Device among Noisy Workplace-workers
Young Mi Kim, Ihn Sook Jeong
Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing.2010; 40(5): 736. CrossRef
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Original Article
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A Study on the Relationship between Emotional Labor and Depressive Symptoms among Korean Industrial Service Employees
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Soo Youn Kim, Sei Jin Chang, Hyoung Ryoul Kim, Jae Hoon Roh
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2002;14(3):227-235. Published online September 30, 2002
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2002.14.3.227
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Abstract
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- OBJECTIVES
This study was designed to identify the relationship between emotional labor and depressive symptoms among Korean industrial service employees.
METHODS
The case group consisted of 331 employees who were performing emotional labor at department stores, hotels, and family restaurants in Seoul. The control group in this study consisted of 150 employees (90 officers in Seoul and 60 manufacturing workers in Incheon) who were not expected to perform emotional labor. A structured questionnaire was used to estimate each participants level of emotional labor, general characteristics, job content, job satisfaction, and any depressive symptoms. The measurements for emotional labor were performed only on the case group and not the control group.
RESULTS
While the mean values of job satisfaction, job insecurity, and the level of depressive symptoms of the employees who were working in the area of emotional labor were higher than the others, the mean values of job demand, and job control in the same group were lower than those who were not performing emotional labor. Overall, it was found that performing emotional labor and having high levels of job insecurity were related to increased depressive symptoms, and conversely, job satisfaction played a role in reducing depressive symptoms. Similarly, in the sub-sample of the emotional labor group, high levels of job insecurity, and performing high degrees of emotional labor, and low job satisfaction were associated with depressive symptoms.
CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that performing emotional labor is related to an increase in depressive symptoms. In other words, involuntary emotional expression and low job satisfaction in the workplace may influence the level of depressive symptoms in workers. It is, therefore, imperative that further research be undertaken, which considers the importance of emotional labor, and its adverse effect on the mental health of service workers.
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Bokyoung Choi, Ji-Hwan Kim, Jaehong Yoon, Hyemin Lee, Seung-Sup Kim
International Journal of Health Services.2022; 52(1): 174. CrossRef - Does Emotional Labor Increase the Risk of Suicidal Ideation among Firefighters?
Dae-Sung Hyun, Da-Yee Jeung, Changsoo Kim, Hye-Yoon Ryu, Sei-Jin Chang
Yonsei Medical Journal.2020; 61(2): 179. CrossRef - Emotional Labor and Mental Health
Jae-Hon Lee
Journal of Korean Neuropsychiatric Association.2020; 59(2): 98. CrossRef - Anxiety, Depression and Sleep Disturbance among Customer-Facing Workers
Dukyun Kang, Jae Won Yang, Won-Jun Choi, Seunghon Ham, Seong-Kyu Kang, Wanhyung Lee
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2019;[Epub] CrossRef - The effects of emotional labor(surface acting, deep acting) and job burnout on job satisfaction among securities branch clerks
SoonJeong Yang, DonHun Lee
Korean Journal of Industrial and Organizational Psychology.2019; 32(3): 265. CrossRef - Emotional labor, workplace violence, and depressive symptoms in female Bank employees: a questionnaire survey using the K-ELS and K-WVS
Guang Hwi Kim, Hee Sung Lee, Sung Won Jung, Jae Gwang Lee, June Hee Lee, Kyung Jae Lee, Joo Ja Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef - The relationship between emotional labor status and workplace violence among toll collectors
Yosub Joo, Jeongbae Rhie
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2017;[Epub] CrossRef - The Relationships between Emotional Labour, Depressive Symptoms and Presenteeism among Counselors in Call Centers
Jong-Tae Baek, Young-Chae Cho
Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society.2015; 16(6): 4086. CrossRef - The Effects of Emotional Labor and Moderating Effect of Social Support and Job Autonomy on Retailing services employee's
Guijeong Ji, Jiyoung Park, Chesoong Kim
Journal of the Korea Safety Management and Science.2015; 17(3): 247. CrossRef - The Relationship between Emotional Working Hour and Muscle Pain
Bokim Lee
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2014; 23(4): 269. CrossRef - Fatigue and related factors among hotel workers: the effects of emotional labor and non-standard working hours
Ju Jong Lee, Hyun Jey Moon, Kyung-Jae Lee, Joo Ja Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2014;[Epub] CrossRef - The Relationships between Emotional Labour and Depressive Symptoms Among Nurses in University Hospitals
Kyung-Ok Kim, Young-Chae Cho
Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society.2013; 14(8): 3794. CrossRef - Relationship between emotional labor and occupational stress of dental counselor
Gey-Pyo Kim, Ji-Young Lee, Byeng-Chul Yu
Journal of Korean society of Dental Hygiene.2013; 13(5): 727. CrossRef - Job Stress of Occupational Health Managers in Chemicals Manufacturing Factories
Ki-Woong Kim, Jin Woo Park, Se Wook Song
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2012; 21(3): 192. CrossRef - Relationship of Professional Identity, Emotional Labor and Depression in Beauty Business Workers
Li-Ly Kang, Hee-Sook Cho
Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society.2011; 12(7): 3030. CrossRef - Occupational Diseases Produced by Emotional Labor
Hyunjoo Kim
Hanyang Medical Reviews.2010; 30(4): 284. CrossRef - Occupational Psychiatric Disorders in Korea
Kyeong-Sook Choi, Seong-Kyu Kang
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S87. CrossRef
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Original Article
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A Study on Karoshi to Make Application for Industrial Accident Compensation in Busan
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Yeon Nam, Cha Jae O, Jung Rae Park, Dong Jun Lee, Byung Mann Cho, Su Ill Lee
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2002;14(1):34-46. Published online March 31, 2002
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2002.14.1.34
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Abstract
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- OBJECTIVES
Karoshi is a word meaning death from work-overload. Work-related diseases due to continuous overwork are primarily cerebro- and cardio-vascular in nature. In Korea, despite an increase in the incidence of Karoshi, it is not easy to recognise by workmen's compensation in Korea. This study intended to establish basic information concerning the incidence of Karoshi.
METHODS
219 cases were collected based on workers' compensation records of three Busan Regional Centers of Labor Welfare Corporation from 1991 to 1999. The size of workplace, occupation, daily working time, type of working schedule, job tenures, characters of work-overload and duration of work-overload were investigated according of subgroups of general characteristics. Both univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the relationship between risk factors and a recognition of Karoshi.
RESULTS
1. 61.6 % of total cases were recognized as Karoshi. 30.6 % occurred in a small workplace of less than 50 workers, 34.7 % were drivers or guards, and 48.8 % were more than 50 years old. Additionally, 29.6 % worked more than 12 hours, 37.5 % were irregular hours and shift workers and 21.5 % of the total had been on the job less than 6 months. 2. Of the causes of death, 49.8 % was cerebro-vascular diseases and it was more than cardio-vascular ones. And 80.4 % of total cases was belonged to the recognition-category of the Labour Ministry's Law. The previous disease history was found on 49.8 % of all cases. Of them, hypertension was most common as 21.9 %. 3. 53.9 % of patients were exposed to job hazards such as driving, monitoring, guarding, risky jobs and frequent long-term official trips. 64.7 % recorded a increased work-overload of job contents and working hours. Of the several types of work-overload, 42.5 % displayed long-term physical and psychotic work-overload and 22.2 % exhibited job characteristic work-overload. 4. In this study, work-overload was associated with the incidence of Karoshi in 76.3 % of cases. This rate was higher than the recognition of Workmen's compensation recorded by the Korea Labor Welfare Corporation. Of these, 43.6 % belonged to sufficient factors, 10.4 % partial factors, and 22.3 % were due to aggravating factors. 5. Logistic regression demonstrated that death due to cerebro- and cardio-vascular disease, shorttenure within 6 month was significantly associated with a recognition of Karoshi (p=0.034, OR=3.00, C I = 1 . 0 9~8.30/p=0.016, OR=6.76, CI=1.43~32.07 respectively) and that an increase of work-overload was also associated, but its statistical significance was slightly lower(p=0.081, OR=2.02, CI=0.91.~4.46 ) . However, no association was found between this recognition and overtime work, hazardous job, irregular work schedule, low-income, injury-onset place, or small size of workplace. The elderly group(>50years old) and those with a previous disease history were negatively associated with recognition although the statistical association was low.
CONCLUSIONS
Karoshi in Busan occurred frequently in a small workplace of less than 50 workers, especially drivers or guards. Additionally, these cases worked more than 12 hours, were irregular hours and shift workers. The death due to cerebro- and cardio-vascular disease, short-tenure within 6 month was significantly associated with a recognition of Karoshi. However Karoshi in this study occurred frequently in overtime work and high risk groups of work-overload. Therefore, for prevention of Karoshi, work-overload and overtime work need improved and controled.
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- Work-related Cerebro-Cardiovascular Diseases in Korea
Dae-Seong Kim, Seong-Kyu Kang
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S105. CrossRef - Factors Affecting the Designation of Cerebrovascular Diseases as Work-Related in Administrative Litigation
Hyeongsu Kim, Jaewook Choi, Hwayoung Rim, Sounghoon Chang, Kunsei Lee
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2008; 23(2): 236. CrossRef
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Original Article
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An Analysis of Industrial Accidents in an Automobile Factory
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Kyung Jong Lee, Jae Beom Park, Ho Keun Chung, Jong Goo Kim
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2000;12(1):119-127. Published online March 31, 2000
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2000.12.1.119
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Abstract
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- OBJECTIVES
To know the present conditions of industrial accidents in automobile factories in Korea and make the basic materials essential to prevention of industrial accidents METHODS: We reviewed and analyzed the records of industrial accidents occurred in an automobile factory in 1997 by time of occurrence, job categories(fixed production, skilled trades, mechanical material handling, and clerical 8r technical), type of injury, kind of accident, and location of injury.
RESULTS
1. By age groups, the accident rate was the highest in age 45-49(1.6 %o) followed by age 35-39(1.3 %), 40-44(0.9 %), 30-34(0.9 %), 25-29(0.6 %), and 20-24(0.4 %) and by working duration, it was highest in group of experience over 25 years, and so we could see that the more age or working duration increases the more accident rate increases.
2. By work time, the accident rate was the highest in 10-11 a.m. (21.4 %) followed by 2-3 p.m. (17.9%). By the day of the week, it was as follows, Friday(20.5%) Wednesday (17. 9%), Monday (16. 2 %), Thesday (15. 4 %), Saturday (12. 0 %), Thursday(11.1 %), Sunday(6.8 %) in order. By the month, it was high in May(17.9 %), March(11.1 %), and April(11.1 %) followed by August(10.3 %) and January(9.4 %), so we could see it was high in spring. 3. The most frequent injury was in the back by 41.0 % followed by 17 cases in fingers(14.5 %), legs(9.4 %), hands(7.7 %), head(6.0 %) in order. And by the type of injuries, the sprain was most frequent by 38. 5% followed by fracture(22. 2 %, lumbar HNP(11.1 %), and contusion(9.4 %) in order.
The causes of accident were handling heavy materials(34.2 %), upset(17.1 %), stenosis(16.2 %), and falling(6.8 %) in order.
CONCLUSIONS
By the above results, to prevent the industrial accidents in automobile factories in Korea, preventive activities for handling heavy materials and back injury, and continuous industrial education are necessary.
Original Article
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Determinants on Occurrence of Hypertension in the Korean Adult Male Workers in an Industry: a Nested Case-control Study
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Noh Won Park, Il Suh, Tae Yong Lee, Sun Ha Jee, Se Ho Kim
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(4):505-515. Published online December 31, 1999
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.4.505
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Abstract
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- OBJECTIVES
In order to find determinants on occurrence of hypertension in the adult male workers in an industry, a nested case-control study was performed in Seoul, Korea at the periodic health examination center.
METHODS
A cohort was formed with 1,690 normotensive male workers in 1996 and 1997, who had participated in three consecutive periodic health examinations from 1996 through 1998. Cases were 89 hypertensives in 1998, controls were 356 selected by 1:4 age-matching among 1,601 normotensives in 1998. Baseline health behavior (drinking smoking, exercise), baseline health examination data (height, weight, BMI, blood pressure. hemoglobin, fasting blood sugar, serum total cholesterol), and the changes of data during the study period were compared between case and controls. And multiple logistic regression was performed to find determinants on occurrence of hypertension.
RESULTS
There was significant difference in alcohol consumption amount, baseline weight, DM1, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and hemoglobin level. The main determinants on occurrence of hypertension from multiple logistic regression analysis were baseline systolic blood pressure (OR, 1. 13; 95% confidence interval 1.08-1.18%), 15-21 drinks per week (OR, 4.17; 95 % confidence interval 1.44-12.11), and 22 or more drinks per week (OR, 5.29; 95 % confidence interval 1.50-18.58).
CONCLUSIONS
This study showed the importance of baseline blood pressure level and adequate drinking habit for the management of hypertension.
Original Article
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Feasibility Study of Constructing an Occupational Disease Surveillance System in Inchon
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Jong Han Leem, Yun Chul Hong, Hyesook Park, Eun Hee Ha
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(2):241-253. Published online June 30, 1999
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.2.241
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Abstract
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- The occurrence of occupational illnesses and injuries has been seriously underestimated in Korea. This underdiagnosis and underreporting of occupational illnesses and injuries subsequently contribute to difficulties in performing effective control of occupational hazards and implementing intervention programs to protect workers. An Inchon model for an occupational disease surveillance system was constructed using multiple data sources. Available data were obtained from medical providers' reports, hospital medical records, medical examination data of employees, and environmental measurement data. This Jnchon model was constructed with the following procedure: 1. assembled multidisciplinary staff 2. geographic targeting was to Inchon 3. established community liaison 4. collected related data to establish the magnitude of problem 5. selected, recruited, and trained case reporters 6. developed mechanisms and guidelines for reporting 7. received, screened, and prioritized case reports 8. analyzed data from case reports and field investigations 9. made and disseminated recommendations 10. evaluated the feasibility of the system. An information system based on the Internet for the occupational disease surveillance was also constructed to support the case reporting of occupational diseases. 133 cases of occupational diseases were collected in Inchon from 1 January to 31 December 1998. These cases included cumulative traumatic disorder, occupational asthma, occupational contact dermatitis, allergic pneumonitis, occupational cancer, noise-induced hearing loss, and pneumoconiosis. These data were different from the previously reported data The occurrence pattern of occupational diseases obtained from this surveillance system will be useful for preventing occupational hazards and for enforcing occupational disease prevention programs. Our experiences in establishing this surveillance system may be also used in other regional settings.
Original Article
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A Study of Working Status and Industrial Accidents for Migrant Workers in Korea
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Jeong Ah Kim, Jae Wook Choi, Hae Joon Kim, Jong Tae Park
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(1):66-79. Published online March 31, 1999
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.1.66
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Abstract
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- This study was conducted to evaluate and to recognize the status and the problems of working conditions, and industrial accidents for migrant workers in a group of 342 who lives in Ansan area, Kyunggi province. By the questionnaire written by 5 languages (English, Bangladesh, Indonesian, Chinese and Korean), the informations of socio-demographic factors, occupational conditions of engaged company and general & occupational health status were obtained from June, 1st to July 30th, 1998. We used the ANOVA to examine differences of working hours, days and average monthly wages between overseas industrial trainee and illegal migrant workers, and by using logistic regression, odds ratio of general risk factors for industrial accidents in migrant workers were calculated. The results obtained were as follows 1. The major distribution of nationals were from Philippine, Indonesia, Bangladesh and China(92.1%), and the most of subjects were man(78.9%) and over high school graduate(81.9%). 2. Most migrant workers worked at small scale companies under 50 employees, and engaged in dye, textile clothing, leather industry. The average working hours were 59.9 hours per week in overseas industrial trainee, 64.9 hours in illegal migrant worker respectively. 3. Trainees have transferred to another company for 1.89 times, and workers who have changed qualification from trainee to illegal status were 3.09 tims, and illegal workers moved 2.36 times. The major portion of reason to move to another company were low salary and overdue salary. 4. Trainees, workers who have changed position from trainee to illegal status, and illegal workers knows 62.27%, 42.31%, and 20.45% in each about legal documentation for foreign industrial trainees in Korea "Regulations for protecting and managing of foreign industrial trainees in Korea" published on March 1995. Additionally, trainees and illegal workers have experienced medical examination by 52.3% and 18.2% respectively. 5. Industrial accident condition from Jun. 1st, 1997 to Dec. 3lth, 1997 were as follows in case of frequent rate, trainees and illegal workers were 30.04, 23.78 each, and 8.6%, 7.4% for industrial accident rate respectively. 6. The most common causes and types of industrial accident were inappropriate motions of body and abrasion, and body sites most vulnerable to injury were the hands and fingers. The results suggest that working status and industrial accidents of migrant workers are very poor in Korea. Therefore, occupational safety and health policy aimed at migrant workers are needed to protect the migrant workers.
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- Occupational Characteristics and Health Status of Vietnamese Male Migrant Workers in the Republic of Korea
Ohwi Kwon, Ji-Hun Song, Jeong-Ok Kong, Seong-Won Ma, Young Shin Lee, Joonho Ahn
Safety and Health at Work.2023; 14(3): 267. CrossRef - A Study on the Characteristics of Injured Workers Rate and Work Environment of Male Workers for over 40 years
Kil-Yong Choi, Kyung-Soo Yang
The Korean Journal of Health Service Management.2016; 10(1): 131. CrossRef
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Original Article
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The Occupational Health Status of the Small Scale Industries Participated in the 1997 Subsidiary Program on Health Care Management
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Ji Yong Kim, Do Myung Peak, Eun Hee Kim, Eun Hi Ha, Sun Mean Kim, Jung Sun Park, Kyung Ja June, Hea Sun Jung, Hea Sook Park
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(1):33-51. Published online March 31, 1999
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.1.33
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Abstract
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- The small scale industries in Korea are important in occupational health care management due to high accident rate and poor working condition. The authors surveyed the 4,811 small scale industries participated in the 1997 subsidiary program on health care management. The contents of survey were the general characteristics of the factory, the results of workers' general and occupational health examination, the results of workplace environmental monitoring, and the number of occupational accident and injured person at 1995 and 1996. We classified all industries by 67 groups. The prevalence of the general disease was higher in 'Manufacture of other fabricated metal productsj. rManufacture of textiles', 'Manufacture of basic metalsj. In occupational disease, that was higher in FManufacture of metal products', 'Manufacture of basic metals', so in environmental monitoring in 'Manufacture of textiles', 'Manufacture of other fabricated metal products' 'Printfrig' in occupational injuries in 'Manufacture of chemical products', 'Manufacture of basic metals'. However the factories of 'manufacture of motor vehicle', 'manufacture of machine and equipment', 'manufacture of electric product' in the program are large in magnitude, but less important in occupational health management. We observed that the prevalence of general disease, occupational disease, workplace environmental monitoring, occupational injuries of subsidized industries in 1996 were increased compared with those in 1995. and were larger than those of nationwide statistics. These phenomenon shows that the subsidiary health program for participated industries is important and to be urgent. We observed that the major groups in district were different and so the approaching method of each district must be various and different. And the health program manager should focus on the C grade in health examination and the action level in workplace monitoring more than the D grade and the permissible level.
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- Participation inequality in the National General Health Examination based on enterprise size
Young Joong Kang, Jong Heun Park, Huisu Eom, Bohwa Choi, Seyoung Lee, Ji-Won Lee, Jun-Pyo Myong
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2017;[Epub] CrossRef - Effects of health and safety problem recognition on small business facility investment
Jisu Park, Harin Jeong, Sujin Hong, Jong-Tae Park, Dae-Sung Kim, Jongseo Kim, Hae-Joon Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2013;[Epub] CrossRef
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Original Article
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A Status of the Report for Industrial Injuries and Illnesses at an Automobile Related Plant
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Soo Keun Kim
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(4):562-570. Published online December 31, 1998
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.4.562
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Abstract
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- The incidence rate of industrial accidents tends to decrease since 1984. It seems to be caused by the active prevention activities for industrial accidents, however, there has been some concern for under-reporting of industrial injuries and illnesses. This study was carried out to assess the status of injury occurrences and industrial accident reports. The author reviewed and analysed the record from an infirmary of an automobile related factory from May 1994 to April 1998. The results obtained were as follows; 1. The number of injuries were 665 spells during four years and incidence rates per year per 100 persons were 39.57(1995), 39.04(1996) and 36.86(1997). The incidence rate of industrial injuries that needed over four days of medical treatment were 4.32 %, 6.51 % and 4.90 %, respectively by the year. 2. The highest incidence rate by age was the 20-29 age group (46.30 %) and by working duration was the under five years group (46.18 %). 3. A total of 665 injuries were occurred by 244 workers. Workers who experienced over five accidents were 41 persons (16.8 %) with 285 injuries and the proportion of total spells was 42.9 %. 4. Workers who experienced over 5 accidents were the younger group, had under five years working duration and worked at the position of frequently using hand tools. 5. Among the 665 spells, the injuries that needed over four days of medical treatment were 93 spells (14.0 %) and the reported proportion as an industrial accident was 8.6 % (eight spells). The results suggest that improvement of the report system is required to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the industrial accident statistics, and analysing all accidents would be necessary to setup the strategy for prevention even if they are minor injuries.
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- The Prediction of Industrial Accident Rate in Korea: A Time Series Analysis
Eunsuk Choi, Gyeong-Suk Jeon, Won Kee Lee, Young Sun Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2016; 25(1): 65. CrossRef - Medical Managements of Musculoskeletal Diseases in Shipbuilding Industry
Jong-Eun Kim, Young-Ki Kim, Dong-Mug Kang
Journal of the Ergonomics Society of Korea.2012; 31(1): 157. CrossRef
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Original Article
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Occupational Lead Exposure of Storage Battery Industry Workers in Korea
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Pil Kyu Kang, Yong Bae Kim, Ik Soo Ahn, Jong Kyu Lee, Ku Seok Han, Hwa Sung Kim, Kyu Yoon Hwang, Gap Soo Lee, Kyu Dong Ahn, Byung Kook Lee
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(4):438-449. Published online December 31, 1998
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.4.438
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Abstract
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- In order to investigate the level of lead absorption of lead workers and to evaluate the effect of blood lead on blood zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) and prevalence of lead related symptoms, 1,782 lead workers(male: 1,506, female: 276) from 8 storage battery industries were studied. Selected variables as indices of lead exposure were blood lead, blood ZPP, and hemoglobin (HB). Fifteen questionnaires of lead related symptoms were provided to all lead workers and filled up by themselves and confirmed by medical doctors. Personal variables such as age, work duration, smoking and drinking habits were also collected. The results were follows : 1. While the mean blood lead of lead workers of all lead companies was 31.0+/-3.0 ug/100ml (male: 31.5+/-2.9 ug/100ml, female: 27.9+/-3.3 ug/100m1), the mean blood ZPP of all lead workers was 66.7+/-4.1 ug/100ml (male: 59.6+/-3.3, female: 105.3+/-3.0 ug/100ml). The mean hemoglobin of male lead workers was 15.7+/-.3 gm/100ml and that of female lead workers was 13.0+/-.3 gm/100ml. 2. The percentage of lead workers whose blood lead was over 60.0 ug/100m1 and 40.0-59.9 ug/100ml was 2.81 % and 19.08 %, respectively. On the other hand, the percentage of lead workers whose blood ZPP was over 150 ug/100ml and 100-149 ug/100ml was 5.89 % and 8.31 %, respectively. 3. The slopes of simple linear regression of blood lead (independent variable) and blood ZPP in female lead workers was significantly steeper than that of male lead workers. The slope of storage battery industries with better working condition in terms of low air concentration of lead were less steeper than those with poor working condition with high mean air concentration of lead. 4. Stepwise multiple regression analysis, using overall symptom prevalence as a dependent variables, blood lead, blood ZPP, hemoglobin, age, work duration, drinking and smoking habits as independent variables, indicated that only drinking habit and age were significantly contributed to the dependent variable.
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- Occupational Lead Exposure from Indoor Firing Ranges in Korea
Won-Ju Park, Suk-Ho Lee, Se-Ho Lee, Hye-Sik Yoon, Jai-Dong Moon
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2016; 31(4): 497. CrossRef - Blood lead levels of Korean lead workers in 2003–2011
Ji-Hye Kim, Eun-A Kim, Dong-Hee Koh, Kiwhan Byun, Hyang-Woo Ryu, Sang-Gil Lee
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2014;[Epub] CrossRef
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Original Article
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Relationship Between Fatigue Symptomes and Life Style Factors Among Industrial Workers
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Nae Kyoung Park, Jeong Yun Kim, Young Chae Cho, Dong Bae Lee
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(2):214-226. Published online May 31, 1998
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.2.214
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Abstract
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- For the purpose of obtaining reference materials for the prevention and management of mental health promoting in industrial workers, this survey was investigated the relationship between subjective fatigue symptoms and its related factors such as demographic, job and health related variables. 442 cases of industrial workers which occurred in 7 factories of machine an4 metal manufacturing industrial in Taejon industrial area surveyed by self-recorded questionnaire. The results were as follows : 1. In the complaint raters of fatigue, "eye strain" was the highest (21.9%) and followed by "feel like tying" (12.4%) and "feel a pain in the low back" (12.4%), "feel drowsy" (12.2%), "yawning a lot"(11.8%) and "whole body feels tired" (11.1%) in the descending order. 2. In the average weighted scores of fatigue complaints, dullness and steepness group (I) was the highest, followed by difficulty in concentration group(II) and bodily projection of fatigue group(III) in the descending order. 3. The average weighted scores of fatigue complaints by general characteristics were significantly higher in the lower age group, lower education group and unmarried divorce group. But there was no significant difference in sex. 4. By the working condition, the fatigue scores were significantly higher in manual worker and shift worker than in clerical worker and day worker. 5. By the life style, the fatigue scores were significantly lower in 7-8 sleeping hour group and every day eating breakfast group than in other groups. But fatigue score of everyday alcohol drinking group and the lower health practice indecies group were significantly higher than that of other groups. 6. By the health status and psychological factors, the fatigue scores were higher in unhealthy group, unsatisfaction income level group, unsatisfaction worker contents group and the group of badly self-control in work. 7. In the stepwised multiple regression, factors affecting the fatigue symptoms scores were depression symptom score, health status, marital status, job satisfaction, job repeatedness and body mass index.
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- Relations between Fatigue and Work-related Factors in Workers
Eun Sook Jung, Nam Hyun Cha
Journal of Korean Academy of Community Health Nursing.2011; 22(4): 420. CrossRef
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Original Article
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The Relationship between Worker's Health Status and Work Ability Index in Small Scale Factories
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Young Ha Lee, Sung Chul Hong, Jong Young Lee
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(2):149-160. Published online May 31, 1998
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.2.149
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Abstract
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- This research was carried out to determine the relationship between worker's health status and work ability index in small scale factories. The data were gathered from 330 workers of Gumi industrial complex, from February to March, 1996. In this study, as questionnaire for the assessment of work ability, We used the work ability index which was developed by Institute of Occupational Health in Finland. The results of the study were summarized as follows; 1) Work ability index was poor in shift work group, more than 9 hours work group, irregular diet group, and stress sensitive group (p<0.01). There were no evident trends of work ability index in sex, marital status, educational level, obesity index, exercise, alcohol drinking and smoking. 2) As comparing work ability index with worker's health status, work ability index was poor in visual correction needed group, urine sugar positive group, and abnormal ALT & AST group (p<0.01) There were no evident trends of work ability index in hearing capacity, blood pressure, hematocrit and urine protein. 3) In the ANOVA was performed to examine the relationship between work ability index and significant factors above 1) and 2). shift work, work hours, diet, stress sensitive and health status were still statistically significant (p<0.05) on work ability index.
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- A dynamic job rotation scheduling conceptual framework by a human representing digital twin
Venkata Krishna Rao Pabolu, Divya Shrivastava
Procedia CIRP.2021; 104: 1367. CrossRef - Health status and related factors in farmers by SF-12
Kyungeun Park, Sooyong Roh, Jihoon Lee, Soon Chan Kwon, Mihye Jeong, Soo-jin Lee
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2015;[Epub] CrossRef - Reliability of self-administered Work Ability Index questionnaire among Korean workers
Dong-Joo Yang, Dongmug Kang, Young-Ki Kim, Yeun-Hee Kim, Yeong-Ae Yang, Su-Min Cha, Il Kyu Eom, Jong-Eun Kim
Ergonomics.2013; 56(11): 1652. CrossRef
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Original Article
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The Effect of Silica Dust on Ventilatory Function in Foundry Workers
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Jung Wan Koo, Kyoung Ah Kim, Chee Kyung Chung
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(1):94-104. Published online February 28, 1998
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.1.94
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Abstract
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- In order to study the exposure level of silica dust and the effects of silica dust on ventilatory function, respirable dust samples were collected by personal air samplers using NIOSH method 0500 from the selected foundry operations, and ventilatory function tests were performed on 209 male foundry workers and 239 male control subjects. Ventilatory indices such as forced vital capacity (FVC) , one-second forced expiratory volume (FEV1), ratio of FEV1 to FVC(FEV1 %), maximal mid-expiratory flow(MMF), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and maximal expiratory flow at 25, 50 and 75 % of expired FVC (FEF25, FEF50, FEF75 were obtained by analyzing forced expiratory spirogram and maximal expiratory flow-volume curve which were simultaneously measured by Vitalography in standing position. The results were as follows : 1. The average quartz concentrations of respirable dust were the highest in melting operation (0.079 mg/m3) and followed by molding operation (0.051 mg/m3), finishing operation (0.041 mg/m3) and coremaking operation (0.023 mg/m3) in the descending order. 2. No significant differences for mean values of all ventilatory indices expressed as percent of predicted value were demonstrated between smokers and nonsmokers In foundry workers and control subjects. 3. Mean values of all ventilatory indices except FVC of foundry workers were significantly lower than those of control subjects. 4. Mean values of FEV1 %, MMF, FEF25, FEF50 and FEF75 expressed as percent of predicted value tended to decrease with increasing cumulative dust exposure. 5. In foundry workers, proportions of workers with low MMF, FEF50 and FEF75 were markedly higher than those with other indices, and were significantly increased with increasing cumulative dust exposure. 6. In foundry workers, 2 workers(1.0 %) were diagnosed as silicosis and the profusion of radiographic opacities were category 1/0 and q type. With the above considerations in mind, it suggested that increasing exposure of silica dust be associated with progressive deterioration in ventilatory function of an obstructive nature and that MMF, FEF50 and FEF75 be more sensitive indices in the detection of the early obstructive changes of air flow of workers exposed to silica dust.
Original Article
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Quality Assessment of Group Occupational Health Service for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Korea
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Sunmean Kim, Soo Hun Cho, Chang Yup Kim, Eun Hee Ha, Yun Chul Hong, Ho Jang Kwon, Mi Na Ha, Sang Hwan Han, Young Su Ju
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(1):71-82. Published online February 28, 1998
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.1.71
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Abstract
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- Group occupational health service programme started in 1990 is one of the measures to cope with limited human and financial resources in occupational health. The programme has expanded rapidly to include 52 institutions, private as well as public, all over the country. In spite of its potential impact on health of employees and practice of occupational health in small and medium sized industries, comprehensive evaluation in terms of quality has not been tried. This study has aims to develop the criteria to assess the quality of newly developed group occupational health service programme, and to investigate the quality of institutions, and finally to develop policies for the quality improvement. 1) Criteria development : By defining occupational health services, in particular for small and medium sized industries, as one of the primary health care, followings are included as core elements of qualitative occupational health programme ; accessibility, continuity, comprehensiveness, technical quality, intersectoral collaboration, emphasis on preventive services, community participation, and adequacy. Again each element is divided into five major components of national health system infrastructure developed by the World Health Organization ; development of health resources, organized arrangement of resources, delivery of health care, economic support, and management. In turn, each component is categorized into three aspects of quality assessment, structure, process and outcome. Expert panel selected several criteria for each category to evaluate the programme. Criteria were modified according to each group of interviewees, to produce two sets of questionnaire, one for chief operating officer and another for nurses in the institutions, and the chief operating officer and workers in the workplace. 2) Subject : Of all 52 institutions, 25 voluntarily participated in the survey. At individual institution, chief operating officer and practicing nurses were interviewed in depth. After intensive education for interviewees, every interview was performed with standardized guideline and questionnaire. The quality of the 'Group occupational health service programme' was found to be lower than expected. Especially In continuity, comprehensiveness, technical quality, community participation and adequacy, lower quality in structural aspect was commonly identified throughout all the institutions. Quality in terms of accessibility and continuity highly varied among institutions. To improve quality of the programme, more comprehensive and systematic programme such as accreditation has to be introduced. In addition, human resources, governmental fund and information systems for individual workers are to be developed. As a long range plan, integration of occupational health services into the national health systems and pooling of financial resources and planned allocation should be considered.
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- The roles of doctors, nurses, and industrial hygienists in the healthcare management services in Korea: a comparison of the opinions of specialized health management institutions and entrusted enterprises
Bo-Young Jang, Dong-Mug Kang, Young-Ki Kim, Se-Young Kim, Kyung-Sun Ko
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef - Relationship between occupational injuries and the provision of safety and health information: data from the 4th Korean working conditions survey
Ju-il Seo, Gab-Sik Shin, Min Gi Kim, Young-Sun Min
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2018;[Epub] CrossRef - Practice status of specialized agencies for occupational health management of small- to medium-size enterprises and the factors improving their performance: a cross-sectional survey study
Saerom Lee, Jun-Pyo Myong, Eun-A Kim, Huisu Eom, Bowha Choi, Young Joong Kang
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2017;[Epub] CrossRef - Validation of Performance Indicators for Evaluation of Workplace Health Promotion
Seung Hee Ho, Young Moon Chae
American Journal of Health Promotion.2015; 29(6): 402. CrossRef
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774
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Original Article
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A Study on Risk Factors of Grain Dust-Induced Occupational Asthma in Grain Feedmill Workers
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Kyoo Sang Kim, Euna Kim, Se Wi Lee, Hae Sim Park
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(4):628-640. Published online December 31, 1997
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.4.628
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Abstract
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- This study was carried out to manifest risk factors related grain dust induced asthma, especially allergic and immunologic factors. Six grain workers first diagnosed as grain dust induced asthma by specific antigen bronchial asthma challenge test (cases) and 37 grain workers showed negative finding (controls) in the same firm were selected. Questionnaire survey for respiratory symptoms, interview, physical examination, PFT, methacholine bronchial hyperresponsiveness, specific challenge tests and skin prick test for four grains (grain, corn, rye and seed dust) were conducted. To evaluate the role of specific antibodies to grain dust, we detected serum specific IgE and IgG antibodies by ELISA in 43 employees. The results were summarized as follows : 1. Compared with the group having no respiratory symptoms, odds ratio of grain dust induced asthma with respiratory symptoms was 3.04 (95% CI 0.32-28.80). 2. Compared with the group having no ventilatory impairment, odds ratio of grain dust induced asthma with ventilatory impairment was 0.54 (95% CI 0.06-5.21). 3. Compared with the group showed negative skin test for general respirable antigen, odds ratio of grain dust induced asthma with atopy was 8.02 (95% CI 0.42-153.25). 4. Compared with the group showed negative finding on specific allergic skin test, odds ratio of grain dust induced asthma with positive finding was 5.88 (95% CI 0.63-55.38). 5. In immunologic test, compared with the group not increased total IgE(<160 IU/ml), odds ratio of grain dust induced asthma with increased group (> or = 160 IU/ml) was 4.78 (95% CI 0.50-44.57). 6. Compared with the group showed negative finding on specific IgE antibody, odds ratio of grain dust induced asthma with positive finding was 2.63 (95% CI 0.43-16.16). 7. Compared with the group showed normal finding on nonspecific (methacholine) bronchial hyperresponsiveness, odds ratio of grain dust induced asthma with positive finding was 76.82(95% CI 3.37 - 1566.34). Statistically significant odds ratio were fecund for specific skin test with grain, total IgE and nonspecific (methacholine) bronchial hyperreponsiveness.
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- Ventilation Operating Standard for Improving Internal Environment in Pig House Grafting Working Conditions Using CFD
Byung-Wook Oh, Hyo-Jae Seo, Il-Hwan Seo
AgriEngineering.2023; 5(3): 1378. CrossRef - The Status and Influencing Factors of Respiratory System Diseases in Korean Farmers with Disease
Hyeongyeong Lee, Kyungsu Kim, Dongphil Choi, Lockwhan Jo, Hyocher Kim, Wounjong Choi
The Korean Journal of Community Living Science.2020; 31(4): 779. CrossRef - Work-related Injuries and Diseases of Farmers in Korea
Kwan LEE, Hyun-Sul LIM
INDUSTRIAL HEALTH.2008; 46(5): 424. CrossRef
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855
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Original Article
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Pneumoconiosis with Workers of Manufacturing Industry in Incheon
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Yeon Soon Ahn, Kyoo Sang Kim, Ho Keun Chung, Il Soon Whang, Jaehoon Roh
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(4):589-603. Published online December 31, 1997
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.4.589
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Abstract
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- Most of pneumoconiosis found in Korea can be categorized in coal worker's pneumoconiosis. However, in recent years, pneumoconiosis has been frequently found in the workers of manufacturing factories. Accordingly, this study was carried out to investigate relationship of dust exposure history and development and progress of pneumoconiosis. Chest radiographs, history of dust exposure, and other data of 144 workers, who were diagnosed as suspecter pneumoconiosis (0/l) or pneumoconiosis in special health examination center in Incheon from 1986 to 1996, were reviewed. The results were as follows ; 1. According to the type of main exposure, most common type of exposure was foundry dust(93workers, 64.6%), followed by welding fume(16workers, 11.1%), talc dust, lime dust and etc. 2. Among 144 workers, the history of dust exposure was investigated in 86 workers. Mean ages of 86 workers at the present study, initial exposure to the dusts, and at the time of initial diagnosis as having pneumoconiosis were 52.1, 29.1 and 46.5 years, respectively. The mean duration of exposure was 17.3 years. 3. Comparing the type of main exposure with dust exposure history, initially exposed age of welders, foundry workers, workers exposed to coal dust and other dusts were 24.6, 30.7, 28.0 and 28.5 years, respectively. Ages at the time of diagnosis as having pneumoconiosis of welders, foundry workers, coal dust and other dusts were 41.3, 49.3, 46.4 and 44.1 years, respectively. The duration of exposure to main dust of welders, foundry workers, workers exposed to coal dust and other dusts were 16.8, 18.2, 13.3 and 11.6 years, respectively. Therefore initially exposed age was significant difference between the welders and the foundry workers (p<.05). Age which was diagnosed pneumoconiosis was significant difference between the welders, workers exposed to other dusts and the foundry workers (p<.01). And exposure duration of main dust was significant difference between the workers exposed to other dusts and foundry workers (p<.01) 4. Initially diagnosed X-ray category of the workers were category 0/l (76workers, 52.8%), 1/0 (35workers, 24.3%) Therefore, workers' pneumoconiosis of manufacturing factories was mild, relatively. And there was no significant difference between initially diagnosed X-ray category of the workers and dust exposure history. 5. Among 97 workers, who could follow up more than 1 year, 60 workers(61.9%) were not changed, 24 workers (24.7%) were progressed, 13 workers (13.4%) were improved in their initially diagnosed X-ray category. Among 11 welders, initially diagnosed X-ray category of 5 welders(45.5%) were improved and of only 1 welder was progressed. But, among 19 workers exposed to other dusts, 10 (52.6%) workers were progressed and none of them were improved. 6. Among 53 workers, who were Initially diagnosed X-ray category was 0/l, 12 workers (22.6%) were progressed and 5 workers (9.4%) were improved in their initially diagnosed X-ray category. And among 40 workers, who were initially diagnosed X-ray category was 1, 12 workers(30.0%) were progressed and 7 workers(17.5%) were improved. Above results suggest that not a few workers of manufacturing factories have pneumoconiosis and their pneumoconiosis is progressed. Therefore, we have to prepare management plan and to study epidemiologic findings of pneumoconiosis with workers of manufacturing factories.
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- Cause-Specific Mortality Due to Malignant and Non-Malignant Disease in Korean Foundry Workers
Jin-Ha Yoon, Yeon-Soon Ahn, Suminori Akiba
PLoS ONE.2014; 9(2): e88264. CrossRef - Occupational Diseases in Korea
Seong-Kyu Kang, Eun A Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S4. CrossRef
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Original Article
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Relating Factors of Industrial Accident
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Dae Suk Ko, Soon Suk Choi, Soo Jin Jung, Jun Han Park, Hun Lee, Byung Chul Son, Sang Hwa Urm, Chae Un Lee, Ki Taek Bae, Jin Ho Chun
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(1):99-108. Published online February 28, 1997
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.1.99
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Abstract
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- This study was conducted to estimate the causing factors of industrial accident, and to prepare the fittable control program for accident through the evaluation of views of the patients who suffered from accidents. From January 5 to February 6 1993, questionnaire survey was executed on 166 persons who were injured and covered by the insurance under industrial accident compensation law at four university hospitals in Pusan. The results were as follows : 1. Most of subjects worked in the manufacturing (56.6%) and construction(29.5%), and in the small factory less than 49 workers(56.0%). They were thirties and forties(63.8%), less than 3 years tenure(53.6%), habitual drinker(69.2%). And, 72.3% worked for above 9 hours per day, 53.6% worked as near clerks, 89.2% thought that work is rather suitable to his own personality. 2. Self-recognition for the causing factor of industrial accident was the other's malfunction(19.3%), carelessness(15.1%), lack of education for safety(15.1%), and they thought the accident occurred by mainly some defect of establishment and working environment(34.9%), unskillfulness(22.9%), self-carelessness(22.3%). 3. The interests and recognition on safety was insufficient, 88.6% require job education, but 53% pointed out the necessity for strengthening of present status-rather incomplete with relying on self-education (40.9%), no previous participation in safety education (29.5%), etc. 4. For the kind of accident, fall-down(16.3%), crash(13.3%), falling(12.7%) was frequent, head(24.7%) and fracture(41.0%) was frequent for the part and type of injury, respectively. And, they had more injured by cooperative work (82.5%) than single work. As results, improvement of working environment and strengthening education program would be emphasized for the effective control of industrial accident. And, there should be prepared the specific prevention program for the small scale industries.
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- 3D motion analysis of the wrist splint effect to wrist joint movement
Joong-il Shin, Soo-hee Park
Journal of Physical Therapy Science.2017; 29(6): 1089. CrossRef - A basic research on risk control measure for reducing the fishermen's occupational accident in offshore and coastal fishing vessel
Wook-Sung Kim, Young-Bok Cho, Seok-Jae Kim, Kyong-Jin Ryu, Yoo-Won Lee
Journal of the Korean society of Fisheries Technology.2014; 50(4): 614. CrossRef
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Original Article
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Quantitative Sensory and Vascular Tests in the Assessment of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome
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Seung Wan Kang, Eun Il Lee, Yong Tae Yum, Hae Joon Kim
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Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1996;8(2):210-222. Published online September 30, 1996
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1996.8.2.210
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Abstract
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- This study was conducted on 103 male workers exposed to local vibration (exposure workers) and 23 male clergical workers not exposed to local vibration (reference workers) to evaluate the effect of local vibration in a automobile industry workers who had used vibratory tools such as electric bolt impacter or grinder. The assessment methods of this study were some tests recommended by Wasserman and Taylor. None of reference workers complained sensorineural symptoms, but 43.7% of exposed workers complained over one of those symptoms. The proportion of non-recovery type, which means that there was no full recovery of temperature of finger tips, was from 0% to 31. 3% in reference workers and from 10.7% to 15.5% in exposure workers. There was statistically significant difference of recovery time of plethysmogram after cold provocation between mean recovery time of 0.44 minutes in reference workers and that of 3.05 minutes in exposure workers. The proportion of bad plethysmogram was from 0% to 4.4% in reference workers and from 3.9% to 7.8% in exposure workers. There was statistically significant difference of discrimination sense between mean length of 2.04 mm in reference workers and that of 2.9 mm in exposure workers. There were also statistically significant difference of pain sense between mean weights of from 5.02 g to 5.26 g in reference workers and those of from 6.81 g to 7.6 g in exposure workers. By the results of multiple stepwise regression analysis the statistically significant variable affecting discrimination and pain sense was exposure and those affecting vibration sense were exposure and age. We concluded that exposure of local vibration in automobile workers was significaritly associated with decrease of sensorineural sense regardless of age and other, possible related variables.
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- Trans‐Cranial Doppler and Peripheral Sensory Threshold Tests for Carbon Disulfide Poisoning
Eunil Lee, Hun‐Jong Chung, Soon‐Duck Kim, Jong‐Tae Park, Donggeun Sul, Myung‐Hyun Kim
Journal of Occupational Health.2001; 43(6): 307. CrossRef
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