Characteristics of Workplace Injuries among Nineteen Thousand Korean Firefighters

To determine the actual firefighter injury statistics in Korea, we conducted a survey on the nature of on-duty injuries among all male firefighters in Korea. We distributed questionnaires to all Korean male firefighters via email, and data from the 19,119 workers that responded were used for data analysis. The job types were categorized into fire suppression, emergency medical service (EMS) and officers. As estimated of age standardized injury prevalence per one thousand workers, 354 fire extinguishing personnel, 533 EMS workers, and 228 officers experienced one or more injuries during the previous 12 months. The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of injuries was 1.86 (1.61-2.15) for fire suppression and 2.93 (2.51-3.42) for EMS personnel compared to officers after adjusting for age, marital status, smoking habit and career period. Age standardized absence days from work due to injuries per one thousand workers were 1,120, 1,337, and 676 for fire suppression, EMS and officers, respectively. Car accident (24.5%) was the most common cause and wound (42.3%) was the most common type of injuries. Our nationwide representative study showed that fire suppression and EMS workers are at greater risk of on-duty injuries compared to officers. We observed different injury characteristics compared to those reported in other countries.

Relationship between Occupational Stress and Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Korean Male Firefighters

OBJECTIVES: A growing body of literature has documented that job stress is associated with the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). However, the association of WMSDs with job stress has not yet been fully studied in Korean male firefighters. The purpose of this study was to determine the status of WMSDs in almost all Korean male firefighters and to clarify the effect of job stress on the occurrence of WMSDs. METHODS: The study design was cross-sectional, and 21,466 firefighters were recruited. The study design included a structured questionnaire to assess general characteristics, the Korean Occupational Stress Scale (optional KOSS-26), Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D), and WMSDs. The chi-square test, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to look for a correlation between general characteristics and job stress, and the occurrence of WMSD. RESULTS: Back pain is the most common WMSD. Among the job stress subgroup, physical environment, job demands, organizational system, occupational climate, lack of reward and job insecurity were related to the occurrence of WMSDs. However, insufficient job control and interpersonal conflict were not related to the occurrence of WMSDs. CONCLUSION: Job stress was related to the occurrence of WMSDs in Korean male firefighters. To reduce the occurrence of WMSDs, a job stress management program may be required.

The Problem Drinking and Related Factors in Female Firefighters / 대한산업의학회지

OBJECTIVES: This study was conducted to investigate problem drinking and analyze factors associated with alcohol use among female firefighters, as well as to provide useful data for management of alcohol use by female firefighters. METHODS: The study includeed 1,587 female firefighters from throught Koea. Data were collected from June to July in 2008 using self-administered questionnaires including a general questionnaire, work related questionnaire, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), the Korean Occupational Stress Scale Short Form (KOSS-26), and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD). Among 1,263 female firefighters (75.6%) surveyed, the results of 1,084 qualified questionnaires (70.5%) were analyzed using the chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: The prevalence of problem drinking (AUDIT score > or =8) in female firefighters was 12.5%. Multiple logistic analysis showed that being single, smoking and depression were correlated with problem drinking. Single female firefighter, present smokers and individuals positive for symptoms of depression had OR values of 2.11, 17.58 and 1.76, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Three factors were found to influnce the occurrence of problem drinking. Accordingly, smoking related education, counseling to cope effectively with depression and health promotion programs that consider psychological effects of job stress are needed to reduce work related factors that lead to problem drinking by female firefighters.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hearing Loss Using the Korean Working Conditions Survey

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The hearing loss of workers can occur when they are affected by age, otologic disease, and work-related risks such as noise and chemicals. Based on the Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS) in 2010, this research aimed to estimate the prevalence rate of hearing loss and to identify the risk factors affecting its occurrence. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The subjects were 10019 employees who completed an interview conducted as part of KWCS in 2010. The prevalence rate of hearing loss according to sex, age, education, income, smoking, drinking, hypertension, industrial type, occupations, employment status, working period, and hazards at the workplace were assessed. The factors that could affect the occurrence of hearing loss were investigated based on a logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: The prevalence rate of hearing loss was 2.7%. In a logistic multivariate analysis, sex, age, occupations, working period, noise, and exposure to chemicals showed statistically significant correlations to the occurrence of hearing loss. The adjusted odd ratios were as follows: 1.74 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.03-2.96] for males, 2.11 (95% CI, 1.14-3.89) for those in their 40s, 2.24 (95% CI, 1.19-4.20) for those in their 50s, 2.21 (95% CI, 1.18-4.15) for manage/professional works, 2.73 (95% CI, 1.69-4.41) for manufacturing, 2.07 (95% CI, 1.36-3.15) for those who have worked for more than 20 years, 1.72 (95% CI, 1.14-2.58) for noise exposure, 1.53 (95% CI, 1.02-2.30) for vibration exposure and 1.58 (95% CI, 1.11-2.24) for chemical exposure. CONCLUSIONS: The overall occupational and non-occupational risk factors related to employees' hearing loss were reviewed. In addition to the exposure to noise, occupational risks of hearing loss, such as isolated exposure to vibration and chemicals, and combined exposure to noise and these hazards, were identified. Multiple exposure to hazards, along with prolonged noise exposure increased the risk of hearing loss.

The Characterisitics of Tinnitus and Its Relationship to Depression from Tinnitus Acquired from Military Service / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of tinnitus in patients who acquired the condition during military service. We also investigated the discomfort patients felt due to tinnitus and its relationship to depression. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: Research participants included 295 victims of tinnitus, who acquired it during military service. The subjects completed a structured questionnaire designed to investigate socio-demographic characteristics, tinnitus characteristics, and health effects of the condition. The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) was used to evaluate the social and psychological discomfort caused by tinnitus. When the center for epidemiological studies-depression scale score was 25 or higher, the subjects were considered positive for depression. RESULTS: Severe tinnitus affected 76.6% of subjects, with THI scores of at least 58 indicating effects on everyday life, and 35.6% of subjects showing depression. Depression showed a significant relationship with past history of ear diseases, hearing loss, loudness of tinnitus, tinnitus handicap, and effects on health due to tinnitus. In the multiple logistic regression analysis, hearing loss, loudness of tinnitus, and tinnitus handicap significantly affected the occurrence of depression. The adjusted odds ratios were as follows: 2.39 (95% CI, 1.36-4.21) with hearing loss, 2.51 (95% CI, 1.14-5.54) for high loudness of tinnitus, and 5.04 (95% CI, 1.98-12.79) for high tinnitus handicap. CONCLUSION: Relevant countermeasures are needed due to the high risk of depression observed among patients with high tinnitus handicap with hearing loss that affect everyday life.

Relationship between Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Non-fatal Occupational Injuries in Construction Workers in Korea / 대한산업의학회지

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the relationship between musculoskeletal symptoms and non-fatal injuries in construction workers. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study involving 1,836 male construction workers in petrochemical plants in Korea. For this study, a structured self-reported questionnaire(KOSHA CODE H-30-2003) was used. Musculoskeletal symptoms were defined as symptoms that affect the operation of the musculoskeletal system, for longer than one week or a frequency of more than once per month. To evaluate the association between musculoskeletal symptoms and non-fatal occupatioanl injuries, multiple logistic-regressions were used after adjusting for age, exercise, smoking status, alcohol consumption, work time, work duration, and income. RESULTS: A total of 140 workers were involved in non-fatal injuries cases, representing 7.6% prevalence. After adjusting for confounding variables, the logistic regression analyses indicated the group with musculoskeletal symptoms(OR 1.73 95% CI:1.21~2.47) and intensity criteria of musculoskeletal symptoms as related to 'moderate' criteria(OR 1.82 95% CI:1.18~2.81) or 'severe' criteria(OR 2.57 95% CI:1.43~4.63). This identified group was more likely to experience non-fatal occupational injuries. However, a 'mild' criteria(OR 1.00 95% CI:0.51~1.99) was not associated with non-fatal occupational injuries. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated a possible association between musculoskeletal symptoms and non-fatal injuries. Hence, strengthening of laws and regulations, effective ergonomic programs and training is necessary to prevent musculoskeletal symptoms.

A Study on the Possibility of Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Firefighters

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Firefighters face serious risks to their health and safety in the performance of their duties. In addition to the diverse occupational hazards well-known to the public, firefighters are also occasionally exposed to high levels of noise, such as sirens, horns, and electronic alerting signals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We first measured the noise emitted by two fire trucks and one ambulance. Next, we enrolled 171 firefighters (164 males, seven females). We designated the employees of a private school as controls for the firefighter group. After selecting workers, including audiometric testing at 1,000 and 4,000 Hz, the groups were age- and gender-matched. Both groups were included separately for the right and left ears at pure-tone test frequencies at 1,000 and 4,000 Hz. We chose the better ear thresholds and analyzed the differences in hearing levels at each frequency and each age group between the firefighters and controls. RESULTS: The sound pressure levels of the siren in and out of an ambulance, the first fire truck, and the second fire truck were 99.3 dB (A) and 108.9 dB (A), 92.3 dB (A) and 108.3, and 78.8 dB (A) and 99.0 dB (A), respectively. At 4,000 Hz, the hearing threshold was significantly increased by work period (p<0.01). Each hearing threshold level was significantly higher than controls (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Many of the noise sources produce sounds exceeding 90 dB (A), and some firefighters may be exposed for brief periods to levels that exceed 105-110 dB (A). The hearing threshold level in firefighters is higher than the general population and noise-induced hearing loss in firefighters is possible. In the future, consistent, effective, and long-standing implementation of hearing conservation programs are needed, and special health examinations for hearing levels in firefighters must be conducted.

A Study on the Possibility of Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Firefighters

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Firefighters face serious risks to their health and safety in the performance of their duties. In addition to the diverse occupational hazards well-known to the public, firefighters are also occasionally exposed to high levels of noise, such as sirens, horns, and electronic alerting signals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We first measured the noise emitted by two fire trucks and one ambulance. Next, we enrolled 171 firefighters (164 males, seven females). We designated the employees of a private school as controls for the firefighter group. After selecting workers, including audiometric testing at 1,000 and 4,000 Hz, the groups were age- and gender-matched. Both groups were included separately for the right and left ears at pure-tone test frequencies at 1,000 and 4,000 Hz. We chose the better ear thresholds and analyzed the differences in hearing levels at each frequency and each age group between the firefighters and controls. RESULTS: The sound pressure levels of the siren in and out of an ambulance, the first fire truck, and the second fire truck were 99.3 dB (A) and 108.9 dB (A), 92.3 dB (A) and 108.3, and 78.8 dB (A) and 99.0 dB (A), respectively. At 4,000 Hz, the hearing threshold was significantly increased by work period (p<0.01). Each hearing threshold level was significantly higher than controls (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Many of the noise sources produce sounds exceeding 90 dB (A), and some firefighters may be exposed for brief periods to levels that exceed 105-110 dB (A). The hearing threshold level in firefighters is higher than the general population and noise-induced hearing loss in firefighters is possible. In the future, consistent, effective, and long-standing implementation of hearing conservation programs are needed, and special health examinations for hearing levels in firefighters must be conducted.

Gender-related Factors Associated with Upper Extremity Function in Workers

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to find gender distinctions in terms of the sociology of the population; to determine work-related factors; to analyze gender differences in daily living, work, sports, and art performances; and to identify gender-related factors that limited performance of daily living and work activities. METHODS: A questionnaire was designed that included disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH), accident history, disease history, work duration at current workplace, marital status, job satisfaction, job autonomy, and physical demands of the job. Out of 1,853 workers surveyed, 1,173 questionnaires (63.3%; 987 males, 186 females) included responses to DASH disability and DASH optional work and were judged acceptable for analysis. RESULTS: Upper extremity functional limitation during work and daily living was higher for females than males. The limitations for males increased according to their household work time, accident history, work duration, job satisfaction, physical demand, and job autonomy. Meanwhile, female workers' upper extremity discomfort was influenced by their disease history, job satisfaction, and physical demands. In addition, the size of the company affected male workers' upper extremity function, while marriage and hobbies influenced that of female workers. CONCLUSION: This study addressed sociodemographic factors and work-related factors that affect each gender's upper extremity function during daily living and working activities. Each factor had a different influence. Further studies are needed to identify the effect that role changes, not being influenced by risks at work, have on musculoskeletal disorders.

Occupational Asthma in Korea

Occupational asthma (OA) is the leading occupational respiratory disease. Cases compensated as OA by the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service (COMWEL) (218 cases), cases reported by a surveillance system (286 cases), case reports by related scientific journals and cases confirmed by the Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute (OSHRI) over 15 yr from 1992 to 2006 were analyzed. Annual mean incidence rate was 1.6 by compensation and 3.5 by surveillance system, respectively. The trend appeared to increase according to the surveillance system. Incidence was very low compared with other countries. The most frequently reported causative agent was isocyanate followed by reactive dye in dyeing factories. Other chemicals, metals and dust were also found as causative agents. OA was underreported according to compensation and surveillance system data. In conclusion, a more effective surveillance system is needed to evaluate OA causes and distribution, and to effectively prevent newly developing OA.

Occupational Hearing Loss in Korea

In this article, current status of noise exposure in workplaces, trend of workers with noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and prevalence of NIHL in workers by industry and job category in Korea were reviewed. In addition, trends of research on the audiological effects such as hearing loss from noise and occupational hearing loss from non-noise in Korea were addressed through reports in industrial audiology. Though noise exposure level has improved, noise still shows the highest rate of cases exceeding exposure limit among workplace hazards. NIHL is the most common occupational disease except work-related disease such as musculoskeletal disorders and cerebrovascular diseases, and NIHL prevalence is thought to be much higher than reported in official publications. Noise affecting hearing comes from various sources such as workplaces, military settings, areas with exposure to high noise, and specific noise sources. There is also occupational hearing loss by non-noise including chemicals such as organic solvents and heavy metals, barotrauma, and trauma due to welding spark. Noise affects daily life through audiological effects such as hearing loss and tinnitus, non-audiological physical effects (e.g., cardiovascular), and psychosocial and behavioral effects. Development of systematic and comprehensive hearing conservation programs for lowering the noise level in workplaces and preventing the NIHL, and preparation of technological, administrative system for its settlement at workplace are urgently needed.

Characteristics of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Korea and Their Work-relatedness Evaluation

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) can be compensated through the Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance Act. We looked at the characteristics of WMSDs in worker's compensation records and the epidemiological investigation reports from the Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute (OSHRI). Based on the records of compensation, the number of cases for WMSDs decreased from 4,532 in 2003 to 1,954 in 2007. However the proportion of WMSDs among the total approved occupational diseases increased from 49.6% in 2003 to 76.5% in 2007, and the total cost of WMSDs increased from 105.3 billion won in 2004 to 163.3 billion won in 2007. The approval rate of WMSDs by the OSHRI accounted for 65.6%. Ergonomic and clinical characteristics were associated with the approval rate; however, the degenerative changes had a minimal affect. This result was in discordance between OSHRI and the Korea Workers' Compensation & Welfare Service. We presumed that there were perceptional gaps in work-relatedness interpretation that resulted from the inequality of information in ergonomic analyses. We propose to introduce ergonomic analysis to unapproved WMSDs cases and discuss those results among experts that will be helpful to form a consensus among diverse groups.

Effects of Workplace Noise and Hearing Protective Devices on Worker's Speech Intelligibility / 대한산업의학회지

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the degree of intelligible speech in workers wearing hearing protective devices and the differences in background noise type. METHODS: A total 82 shipyard company employees and normal hearing volunteers were recruited as subjects from a company in Ulsan: subjects were classified to the hearing-impaired group or to the control group according to hearing status. They were tested pure tone and speech audiometry in varying test environments including signal-to-noise ratio and background noise type in a headphone and in a free field environment. RESULTS: For both groups, the attenuation of hearing protective devices was greater at high frequencies. For the hearing-impaired group, speech discrimination scores differences between the unprotected and the protected ear were not significant between background noise type, when speech was presented at 65 dBA. However speech intelligibility in white noise background was lower than in the other background noise types when speech was presented at 75 dBA. CONCLUSIONS: Workers' speech intelligibility increased with an increasing signal-to-noise ratio. Speech intelligibility was also dependent on background noise type. Workers and their colleagues were trained to pronounce words more loudly and more clearly when they wearing hearing protective devices or other communication methods that do not use sound signal should be considered.

Health Hazards in Firefighters / 한양의대학술지

The work of firefighters is characterized by its danger, urgency, unique work environment, and by its considerable physical requirements. In the process of performing duties such as extinguishing fires, rescuing those in need, and providing relief, they are exposed to increasingly complex psychological, physical, chemical, and biological hazards. Examples of the physical hazards they face include toxic chemicals, heat, infrared rays that are generated by the combustion of certain items, and noise. Previous studies have found that firefighters are more likely to some types of cancers (e.g., brain tumors, cancers of lympatic and hematopoietic systems, and cancers of genitourinar tract), cardiovascular diseases and lung diseases compared to the general public. The findings suggested that the firefighting job plays a key role in the development of those illnesses. Firefighters can also suffer from various types of musculoskeletal disorders due to the heavy equipment they must carry, the distorting body positions that are inevitable in cases of emergency, and the heavy loads that are imposed on their spines when carrying accident victims. In conclusion, there should be systematic, professional, and consistent measures to prevent the accidents and manage the occupational diseases faced by firefighters.

Relationship between Job Stress and Depressive Symptoms among Field Firefighters / 대한산업의학회지

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relationship between job stress and depressive symptoms among field firefighters. METHODS: We carried out a survey of 17,457 field firefighters using the KOSS-24 (Korean Occupational Stress Scales-24) and CES-D (Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale). RESULTS: The mean CES-D score was 12.2+/-9.6 and 19.2% of subjects had depressive symptoms. Job insecurity (OR=2.70, 95% CI=2.45~2.98) and lack of reward (OR=2.41, 95% CI=2.18~2.65), occupational climate (OR=2.38, 95% CI=2.15~2.63) were strongly associated with depressive symptoms. Job demand (OR=1.89, 95% CI=1.69~2.10), insufficient job control (OR=1.14, 95% CI=1.03~1.25), interpersonal conflict (OR=2.05, 95% CI=1.87~2.26) and organizational system (OR=1.83, 95% CI=1.66~2.02) were also significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Alcohol dependence had a stronger association than with normal subjects (OR=2.39, 95% CI=2.07~2.77). CONCLUSIONS: In field firefighters, job stress factors and alcohol dependence were associated with depressive symptoms. An intervention to reduce job stress and alcohol among field firefighters is needed to reduce depression in this population.

The Relationship between Job Stress and Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Migrant Workers / 대한산업의학회지

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the musculoskeletal symptoms of migrant workers. We focused on the relationship between job stress and musculoskeletal symptoms. METHOD: A questionnaire was administered to 502 migrant workers who visited NGO migrant worker centers located in Gyung-gi province. A structured, self-reported questionnaire was administered to participants in order to capture the following information: sociodemographics, health factors including past medical history, work related characteristics, job stress, and musculoskeletal symptoms. The job stress questionnaires were used according to KOSS-26 and musculoskeletal symptoms were measured using KOSHA Code H-30-2003. We used multiple logistic regression analysis to assess the relationship between risk factors which included job stress, and musculoskeletal symptoms. RESULTS: The prevalence rate of musculoskeletal symptoms in survey subjects was 35.1%. Other than job stress factors, past medical history was the only factor that had a statistical relationship to musculoskeletal symptoms (P<0.01). In the domains of job stress, physical environment (OR 1.62, 95% CI: 1.03~2.54), job demand (OR 2.43, 95% CI: 1.46~4.03), job insecurity (OR 1.59, 95% CI: 1.03~2.47), occupational climate (OR 2.30, 95% CI: 1.27~4.19) were most likely experience musculoskeletal symptoms. CONCLUSION: The job stress factor appeared to correlate more with musculoskeletal symptoms than with sociodemographics or other factors. Hence, in order to prevent migrant worker's musculoskeletal symptoms, we believe that intervention in job stress (physical environment, job demand, job insecurity, occupational climate) is necessary.

The Effects of Disabilities of the Upper Extremities on Daily Activities of Workers in Manufacturing Industry, and the Factors Influencing Those Disabilities / 대한산업의학회지

OBJECTIVES: Discomfort in the upper extremities affects and restricts the daily activities and work of many workers. This study was conducted to apply a standardized tool for identifying musculoskeletal symptoms and measuring how greatly these symptoms affect the performance of workers in small manufacturing industries as well as to analyze the relationships between the socio-demographic characteristics of the workers, the psychosocial factors, and ergonomic risk factors on the one hand and the reported musculoskeletal symptoms and their effects on work performance on the other. METHODS: Workers in small manufacturing companies were asked to self-evaluate musculoskeletal symptoms, restrictions on work performance, and the ergonomic risk in their working environments. A standardized tool (musculoskeletal symptoms table, DASH [Disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand]) was used to evaluate the musculoskeletal symptoms and the restrictions on work performance. RESULTS: 1) The DASH score was significantly higher among women, older workers who had been in that job for a long time, married workers, those with no leisure activities or hobbies, those with long hours of housework, those who had experienced a disease in the past, and those who had had an accident in the past; 2) the DASH score was also significantly higher for those workers who were unsatisfied with their work, who worked hard, who no control over their work, and whose work required heavy equipment, tools, and materials; 3) the DASH score was significantly higher in workers with major ergonomic risk factors; 4) the DASH score was significantly higher among workers with occupational musculoskeletal disease and was distributed as follows, from highest to lowest rates of occurrence; symptoms in the upper arms, difficulty sleeping, difficulty with work, restrictions in daily activities, restrictions in social activities, and difficulties in specific work performance; 5) explanatory power increased in the model with the addition of socio-demographic variables, i.e., in analyses with the DASH total score as the dependent variable and psychosocial factors, ergonomic risk factors, and upper extremity discomfort symptoms as the independent variables. The total explanatory power found a significant effect at 35.3%. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study show that to enhance the upper extremity performance level of workers in the manufacturing industry, preventive measures should be based on a consideration of ergonomic risk factors, psychosocial factors, and the socio-demographic characterisitics of the individual workers.

The Effects of Disabilities of the Upper Extremities on Daily Activities of Workers in Manufacturing Industry, and the Factors Influencing Those Disabilities / 대한산업의학회지

OBJECTIVES: Discomfort in the upper extremities affects and restricts the daily activities and work of many workers. This study was conducted to apply a standardized tool for identifying musculoskeletal symptoms and measuring how greatly these symptoms affect the performance of workers in small manufacturing industries as well as to analyze the relationships between the socio-demographic characteristics of the workers, the psychosocial factors, and ergonomic risk factors on the one hand and the reported musculoskeletal symptoms and their effects on work performance on the other. METHODS: Workers in small manufacturing companies were asked to self-evaluate musculoskeletal symptoms, restrictions on work performance, and the ergonomic risk in their working environments. A standardized tool (musculoskeletal symptoms table, DASH [Disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand]) was used to evaluate the musculoskeletal symptoms and the restrictions on work performance. RESULTS: 1) The DASH score was significantly higher among women, older workers who had been in that job for a long time, married workers, those with no leisure activities or hobbies, those with long hours of housework, those who had experienced a disease in the past, and those who had had an accident in the past; 2) the DASH score was also significantly higher for those workers who were unsatisfied with their work, who worked hard, who no control over their work, and whose work required heavy equipment, tools, and materials; 3) the DASH score was significantly higher in workers with major ergonomic risk factors; 4) the DASH score was significantly higher among workers with occupational musculoskeletal disease and was distributed as follows, from highest to lowest rates of occurrence; symptoms in the upper arms, difficulty sleeping, difficulty with work, restrictions in daily activities, restrictions in social activities, and difficulties in specific work performance; 5) explanatory power increased in the model with the addition of socio-demographic variables, i.e., in analyses with the DASH total score as the dependent variable and psychosocial factors, ergonomic risk factors, and upper extremity discomfort symptoms as the independent variables. The total explanatory power found a significant effect at 35.3%. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study show that to enhance the upper extremity performance level of workers in the manufacturing industry, preventive measures should be based on a consideration of ergonomic risk factors, psychosocial factors, and the socio-demographic characterisitics of the individual workers.

The Relationship between Job Stress and Depressive Symptoms in Migrant Workers in Kyung-gi Province in Korea / 대한산업의학회지

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the mental health status of migrant workers. We focused on the relationship between depressive symptoms and job stress. METHEOD: A questionnaire was administered to 488 migrant workers who visited NGO migrant worker centers located in Kyung-gi province. A structured, self-reported questionnaire was used to assess each responder's sociodemographics, work related characteristics, health behaviors, past medical history, job stress and depression symptoms. The job stress questionnaire was used according to KOSS-26 and depression symptoms were measured using CES-D, which was translated into Korean. We used multiple logistic regression analysis to assess the relationship between risk factors included job stress and depression symptoms. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression symptoms in survey subjects was 25.2%, but the prevalence of non-Chinese nationalities and illegal workers were 32.1% and 32.8%, respectively. Adjusting for confounding factors, job stress (OR 2.55, 95% CI=1.30-4.99) had a statistical meaningful relationship with depression symptoms. Among job stress domains, physical environment (OR 2.97, 95% CI=1.59-5.53), job demand (OR 2.33, 95% CI=1.26-4.32) and occupational climate(OR 3.10, CI=1.49-6.48) were most likely to experience depression symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of depressive symptoms among the study subjects was similar to the prevalence among the general population in Korea, but higher than that among the Korean workers. In particular, the prevalence among non-Chinese and illegal workers was higher. However, the job stress factor appeared to have a more direct correlation with depressive symptoms than the sociodemographic factors of nationality or residential status. Hence, in order to prevent depressive symptoms of the migrant workers, we believe that intervention on job stress is necessary.

A Case of Epitheloid Sarcoma on Metal Cutoff Worker / 대한산업의학회지

BACKGROUND: Soft tissue sarcoma is a rare condition with many causative factors. However a soft tissue sarcoma from a metallic foreign body and injury is rare. We report a case of a soft tissue sarcoma caused by a metallic foreign body and injury. CASE: The patient had been worked as a metal cutter for 17 years. While working, his palms were constantly pricked by small metallic splinters, which were generally removed after work. On march 2004, he had palpitated mass on his right palm. On November 2006, a right hand x-ray showed a mass and metallic foreign body at the 1st volar space which was confirmed to be an epitheloid sarcoma. All metallic products of his workplace contained chromium and Nickel. which are known to cause soft tissue sarcomas. A review of the literature revealed foreign-body and injury induced oxidative and nitrative stress to be associated with a developing sarcoma. In addition, Cr and Ni are associated with the development of sarcoma. Therefore it was concluded this case of epitheloid sarcoma was associated with his employment. CONCLUSION: A soft-tissue sarcoma associated with a metal foreign-body and injury is rare and their relationship is difficult understand. If a case of sarcoma is encountered on a metal associated worker, their job association should be considered.