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Objective: This study aimed to measure the prevalence of respiratory symptoms/illnesses and evaluate their association with similar exposure groups among brick kiln workers in Nepal. Methods: This cross-sectional survey used a modified Nepali version of the American Thoracic Society Division of Lung Diseases (ATS-DLD) questionnaire to measure the respiratory symptoms and illnesses of 390 brick kiln workers. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between respiratory symptoms and illnesses with similar exposure groups, age, duration of work, and smoking among brick kiln workers. Results: A significant number of workers reported experiencing chronic cough (12.3%), chronic phlegm (10.8%), wheezing (9.2%), chronic bronchitis (10.8%), and asthma (3.6%). Interestingly, people with similar exposure groups, such as coal crushers, were almost four times more likely to have chronic coughs and asthma. Also, coal crushers had higher rates of chronic phlegm (odds ratio [OR] 2.89; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.26–6.61), and chronic bronchitis (OR 2.41; 95% CI, 1.02–5.65). Firemen were also twice as likely to have wheezing and chronic bronchitis. Similarly, individuals transporting red bricks were more likely to report chronic phlegm (OR 2.78; 95% CI, 1.41–5.49). Green brick stacking/carrying was used as the reference group for similar exposure groups. Conclusion: A higher significance of respiratory issues is reported in coalmen, firemen, and red brick loaders. Technology transfer and natural gas substitution are necessary to protect workers.

Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a significant health concern in the working-age population. Since 2008, Japan has mandated health insurers to implement Specific Health Checkups to identify individuals with MS and preliminary groups, making Specific Health Guidance (SHG) compulsory for these groups. People receiving SHG multiple times is increasing as it is conducted as an annual public program. Therefore, we evaluated the influence of a health guidance history on the effectiveness of subsequent guidance. Methods: Using data from 10,191 participants in the 2017 Motivational Health Guidance (a type of SHG involving a single session), this longitudinal study assessed the changes in health checkup findings from 2017 to 2018. Participants were categorized based on their previous year’s (2016) SHG eligibility and participation: Group 1 (n=3,903) met the 2016 SHG criteria and participated, Group 2 (n=2,305) met the criteria but did not participate, and Group 3 (n=3,983) had no MS risk factors and did not need to participate in the 2016 SHG. Results: The entire cohort and Groups 2 and 3 exhibited significant weight loss after 1 year. Group 1 showed a significant negative association, with a 3% (odds ratio [OR] 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55–0.75) and 5% body weight loss (OR 0.66; 95% CI, 0.54–0.81) than Group 3. Men in Group 1 showed a significant association with new-onset MS (OR 2.56; 95% CI, 1.93–3.40). Conclusions: The findings suggest that participants with a history of health guidance in the previous year may have low rates of achieving weight loss and a high incidence of new-onset MS after 1 year.

The Japan Society for Occupational Health (JSOH) recommends the Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) as reference values for preventing adverse health effects on workers caused by occupational exposure to chemical substances, continuous or intermittent noise, impulsive or impact noise, heat stress, cold stress, whole-body vibration, hand-arm vibration and time-varying electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields and ultraviolet and ionizing radiation.

Hairdressers are exposed to awkward posture, prolonged standing, long working hours and chemical hazards capable of causing adverse health effects. The present study aimed to evaluate hairdressers' safety and health risks. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional and analytical design. Systematic random sampling was used to select salons and hairdressers. Closed and open-ended questionnaires were distributed to 286 hairdressers who consented to participate in the study. An observation checklist, WISHA caution checklist, thermometer, light meter and noise level meter were used to collect data in the sampled salon. Data were analyzed descriptively and with regression analysis. It was found that the average space for salons was 8.79 m2, and 68.5% of hairdressers work for long hours (11-12 hours). It was established that 5.48% of salons have an adequate amount of light and that 8.22% of salons have high temperatures. Aprons were the most used personal protective equipment by hairdressers. Manual handling of salon equipment and awkward posture cause musculoskeletal disorders among hairdressers. Their odd ratios impacting the health and safety of hairdressers were 2.706 and 2.728, respectively. The study reveals that hairdressing salon designs, space, lighting, and temperatures affect the health and safety of hairdressers. The hours off work and minimal or no breaks also have negative impacts on the health and safety of hairdressers

The Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) was established in Malta in 2002. Since then, trends indicate that non-fatal accidents have decreased in Malta, while changes in fatal accidents are less clear. Since these trends have not been statistically investigated before, this study aims to do so. The study also aims to analyse the link between specific OHSA deterrent measures and changes in non-fatal accidents. A database compiled by the OHSA on the frequency of accident statistics in Malta and OHSA deterrent measures between 2002 and 2022 was analysed. The study demonstrated that the incidence of fatal and non-fatal accidents decreased significantly during the analysed period. The incidence of non-fatal accidents was more common in the transport and storage sector, the construction sector and the manufacturing sector. Fatal accidents were most frequent within the construction sector. Fatal accidents were common among the self-employed and foreign workers. Deterrents, especially those related to inspections and fines, were significantly associated with a decrease in fatal and non-fatal accidents. The study underscores those accidents have declined significantly since the establishment of the OHSA and demonstrates the benefits of specific deterrent measures. Continued focus is required on specific areas, including the construction sector, self-employed workers and foreign workers.

This study aimed to find the factors affecting the fruit vendor’s safety measures and sanitation facilities during COVID-19 in Bangladesh. A quantitative research design was used to conduct this study. Random sampling techniques were executed to collect data from 416 fruit vendors through a field survey. The study reveals that 87% of the fruit vendors took safety measures during COVID-19. Most of them had better sanitation facilities at home compared to their workplaces. Their safety measures and sanitation facilities were associated with socioeconomic backgrounds. Age, type of house, place of business, and receiving financial support influenced fruit vendors’ safety measures. Sanitation facilities at home were affected by their sex, schooling, types of houses, and working hours. Types of houses, family income, and business duration impacted the workplace's sanitation facilities. Their socio-demographic and economic situations affected fruit vendors' safety measures and sanitation facilities during COVID-19. Fear of death and government market mechanisms also might have played a significant role in measuring the different steps against Coronavirus infection. Health and hygiene rules prescribed by the authorities should be followed strictly to avoid dire situations during the pandemic. Both government and non-government initiatives should be given the utmost priority to create sanitation awareness, whether about personal cleanliness or workplace hygiene and paired with financial support.

Objectives: For occupational health staff, the health status of the worksite is an important matter, and a single index for presenting this health status is desired. We applied a stroke prediction model to employees of a Japanese non-iron metal company working at 10 worksites to present health status of the worksite. Methods: We applied a stroke prediction model of the Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study to 2,807 male employees without history of cardiovascular disease. We additionally applied models from the Japan Arteriosclerosis Longitudinal Study and from the Suita Study for validation. As the expected value for each employee at a worksite, we calculated the mean of employees’ predicted 10-year stroke risk for each worksite. To adjust difference in age distribution, the stroke risk of each worksite was age-adjusted using the direct method. The expected values were presented as the representative value of a worksite with the 95% confidence interval calculated using the bootstrap method. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the reason why a worksite exhibits a high risk. We examined if partial regression coefficients of the worst worksite were affected by modifiable risk factors. Results: Three models predicted similar stroke risks for 10 worksites. Difference in the predicted stroke risk was observed among the worksites even after age-adjustment. Diabetes mellitus was found to affect partial regression coefficient of the worst worksite in any of three prediction models. Conclusion: The stroke prediction model was observed to be a comprehensive tool for presenting a worksite’s health status.

Objectives: This study aims to develop and validate a sampler to measure workers’ exposure to the vapor and mist of benzyl alcohol. Methods: Recovery rate, extraction and desorption rates, breakthrough, and storage stability were tested using Slim-J connected to a glass fiber filter upstream (the connected sampler). The recovery rate of the connected sampler was compared with that of XAD-7. Benzyl alcohol on the filter was extracted, and that in Slim-J resin was desorbed by methanol with an internal standard (N,N-dimethylformamide). Benzyl alcohol was quantified through gas chromatography using a flame ionization detector (GC/FID). Air sampling was conducted by attaching the connected sampler to the chest of a worker during bridge paint film removal. Results: Calibration curves showed linearity with correlation coefficients >0.999. The lower limit of quantification was 0.54 mg/m3 of the airborne concentration at 5-mL desorption with 120-L air sampling. The recovery rates of the connected sampler were 101–103%, whereas those of XAD-7 were 72–78%. The average extraction efficiency from the filters was 105.3%, whereas those from Slim-J were 94.5%. No breakthrough was recognized by aeration at 1 L/min for 120 min. Benzyl alcohol in the sampler was stable for up to 7 days. The sampled air by the connected sampler during bridge paint film removal indicated an isolated peak by GC/FID. Conclusions: The connected sampler is reliable and suitable for measuring levels of personal exposure to benzyl alcohol in vapor and mist phases.

Objectives: Ion-mobility spectrometry (IMS) is a promising system for on-site real-time monitoring of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Calibration curves derived from shifts in nominal arrival-time spectra of chemical substances relative to those of water clusters enable quantitative analysis at high concentrations. Methods: This study investigated the adaptability of IMS to real-time monitoring of VOCs in the work environment, using toluene as a test case. Toluene concentrations were measured by IMS at one-minute intervals during a ten-minute simulated cleaning operation. Results: The arrival-time shift was lower at high concentrations because ion production saturates as the toluene concentration approaches the limit of ionizability, with a resulting decrease in slope of the calibration curve. The lower limit of quantification for toluene was assumed to be 13.3 ppm because no arrival-time shift was observed at lower concentrations. The time-averaged toluene concentration measured by IMS for 10 minutes of operation was 45.8 ppm, which is comparable to that measured by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS; 44.3 ppm) within ~3%. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the measurement of toluene concentrations is possible at one-minute intervals by IMS, making it possible to track rapid changes in workplace conditions. Therefore, IMS can measure exposure to VOCs in real-time with an accuracy similar to that of GC–MS.

The paper briefly informs about content, procedures, and objectives of a study of driving dynamics of selected Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (hereinafter ARFF) vehicles that have been used in practice to ensure fire safety at the Leoš Janáček Ostrava Airport. Two characteristic types of ARFF vehicles were selected for testing. Specifically, the vehicles were Mercedes-Benz 3360A 6x4.2 Actros (hereinafter M-B Buffalo) and Rosenbauer 36.705 Panther 6x6 CA5 ECE HRET (hereinafter Rosenbauer Panther). The driving dynamics testing focused on crisis braking in a straight direction, and on driving in a circle at speeds approaching the safe limit for a vehicle rollover.

The Consolidated Fire and Smoke Transport Model computer program is a two-zone fire simulation model that gives each layer a uniform room temperature and gas concentration. The paper highlights two model scenarios that differ in the use of fire protection equipment. the first model scenario features a smoke detector that influences the course of the fire by detecting and signalling its occurrence. In the second model scenario, there is no smoke detector and therefore the course of the fire is not affected by detection and signalling and subsequent intervention. This paper aims to compare the results between the temperature of the upper and lower smoke layer, and the height of the smoke layer in the two simulations.

The popularity of ultralight planes in non-commercial aviation is on the rise; however, non-compliance with regulations and the use of faulty equipment poses significant risks. This study explores the consequences of such lapses in adherence to safety standards by thoroughly examining the conditions leading to an ultralight plane crash, focusing on data related to causative factors. The accident involved an unregistered ultralight aircraft, lacking proper inspection and the required license. The pilot’s error during takeoff led to a stall, resulting in a fatal crash. Upon impact with the ground, the pilot’s shoulder and lap belts were torn off, leading to immediate death. This case underscores the critical importance of compliance with safety regulations in ultralight aviation. The findings illuminate the dire consequences of non-compliance with safety regulations and the utilization of unregistered, uninspected ultralight aircraft in private aviation. The tragic accident analyzed herein underscores the pivotal role of adherence to safety standards in mitigating the risks associated with ultralight planes. The pilot’s fatal error during takeoff, compounded by the absence of proper inspection and licensing, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers inherent in neglecting established safety protocols.

In the Industry 4.0 scenario, human–robot collaboration (HRC) plays a key role in factories to reduce costs, increase production, and help aged and/or sick workers maintain their job. The approaches of the ISO 11228 series commonly used for biomechanical risk assessments cannot be applied in Industry 4.0, as they do not involve interactions between workers and HRC technologies. The use of wearable sensor networks and software for biomechanical risk assessments could help us develop a more reliable idea about the effectiveness of collaborative robots (coBots) in reducing the biomechanical load for workers. The aim of the present study was to investigate some biomechanical parameters with the 3D Static Strength Prediction Program (3DSSPP) software v.7.1.3, on workers executing a practical manual material-handling task, by comparing a dual-arm coBot-assisted scenario with a no-coBot scenario. In this study, we calculated the mean and the standard deviation (SD) values from eleven participants for some 3DSSPP parameters. We considered the following parameters: the percentage of maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC), the maximum allowed static exertion time (MaxST), the low-back spine compression forces at the L4/L5 level (L4Ort), and the strength percent capable value (SPC). The advantages of introducing the coBot, according to our statistics, concerned trunk flexion (SPC from 85.8% without coBot to 95.2%; %MVC from 63.5% without coBot to 43.4%; MaxST from 33.9 s without coBot to 86.2 s), left shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 46.1% without coBot to 32.6%; MaxST from 32.7 s without coBot to 65 s), and right shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 43.9% without coBot to 30.0%; MaxST from 37.2 s without coBot to 70.7 s) in Phase 1, and right shoulder humeral rotation (%MVC from 68.4% without coBot to 7.4%; MaxST from 873.0 s without coBot to 125.2 s), right shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 31.0% without coBot to 18.3%; MaxST from 60.3 s without coBot to 183.6 s), and right wrist flexion/extension rotation (%MVC from 50.2% without coBot to 3.0%; MaxST from 58.8 s without coBot to 1200.0 s) in Phase 2. Moreover, Phase 3, which consisted of another manual handling task, would be removed by using a coBot. In summary, using a coBot in this industrial scenario would reduce the biomechanical risk for workers, particularly for the trunk, both shoulders, and the right wrist. Finally, the 3DSSPP software could be an easy, fast, and costless tool for biomechanical risk assessments in an Industry 4.0 scenario where ISO 11228 series cannot be applied; it could be used by occupational medicine physicians and health and safety technicians, and could also help employers to justify a long-term investment.

The survey entitled “Field Survey of Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) Transportation Maintenance Technicians (TMTs) Perception of Worker Safety” investigates the safety perceptions and concerns of maintenance workers within ALDOT through a multifaceted analysis approach. The findings reveal critical insights that can significantly enhance ALDOT’s safety practices, training programs, and overall safety culture. Disparities in safety perceptions across different ALDOT’s areas were found, emphasizing the need for ALDOT to tailor its strategies to meet the unique needs of each area, ensuring that safety measures are both relevant and effective. The study emphasizes the importance of implementing targeted interventions focused on high-risk activities and prevalent safety concerns, allowing ALDOT to prioritize resources effectively. Additionally, the research highlights the necessity for continuous improvement by regularly evaluating safety initiatives based on feedback and best practices. This ongoing evaluation ensures that safety measures remain relevant and effective in addressing the evolving needs of TMTs. By integrating these insights into its safety management practices, ALDOT can cultivate a more proactive and resilient work environment that not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also establishes a sustainable culture of safety prioritizing employee well-being. The study provides a roadmap for future improvements in workplace safety and initiates discussions on the implications and recommendations for enhancing ALDOT’s and other transportation agencies’ safety management practices.

The field of ergonomics has been significantly shaped by the advent of evolving technologies linked to new industrial paradigms, often referred to as Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and, more recently, Industry 5.0 (I5.0). Consequently, several studies have reviewed the integration of advanced technologies for improved ergonomics in different industry sectors. However, studies often evaluate specific technologies, such as extended reality (XR), wearables, artificial intelligence (AI), and collaborative robot (cobot), and their advantages and problems. In this sense, there is a lack of research exploring the state of the art of I4.0 and I5.0 virtual and digital technologies in evaluating work-related biomechanical risks. Addressing this research gap, this study presents a comprehensive review of 24 commercial tools and 10 academic studies focusing on work-related biomechanical risk assessment using digital and virtual technologies. The analysis reveals that AI and digital human modelling (DHM) are the most commonly utilised technologies in commercial tools, followed by motion capture (MoCap) and virtual reality (VR). Discrepancies were found between commercial tools and academic studies. However, the study acknowledges limitations, including potential biases in sample selection and search methodology. Future research directions include enhancing transparency in commercial tool validation processes, examining the broader impact of emerging technologies on ergonomics, and considering human-centred design principles in technology integration. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of biomechanical risk assessment.

Electric power substations, as critical components of modern power grids, are increasingly becoming targets for intentional physical attacks, including vandalism, theft, and sabotage. These threats, coupled with the potential for cyber-attacks and the weaponization of technologies, necessitate robust security measures and comprehensive auditing practices. Despite utilities providers’ focus on understanding grid vulnerability and implementing physical security upgrades, there is a recognized gap in evaluating the effectiveness and long-term usability of these measures. This paper addresses the need for regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities and ensure the overall resilience of substations against evolving threats. The rationale behind this study is to propose a conventional auditing method that includes an auditing framework, checklists, inspections, and post-inspection suggestions. Through the systematic identification and addressing of vulnerabilities via security auditing, the framework aims to significantly enhance the resilience of substations against physical threats. This paper provides a comprehensive guideline for the physical security auditing procedure, which is essential for the reliable operation of the power grid.

Lower back pain is a common occurrence among mine workers due to the nature of their work. Globally, workplace (occupational) and ergonomic risk factors have been reported to influence the prevalence of lower back pain among workers. This study aimed to determine ergonomic risk factors associated with lower back pain and associated risk factors (workplace and ergonomics) among mineworkers in a nickel mine in Zimbabwe. A cross-sectional study design was employed, and participants were randomly selected to complete a questionnaire that included the Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (DMQ). A total of 420 mine workers were interviewed, with the majority being male (n = 259, 61.7%) and aged between 31 and 44 years old (n = 159, 37.9%). The study found that the prevalence of lower back pain was 41.43% (n = 174). Several risk factors were found to be associated with lower back pain, including working overtime (AOR = 1.13, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 0.07–0.22), performing repetitive tasks (AOR = 8.06, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 4.67–13.93), bending (AOR = 7.77, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 3.97–15.22), and twisting (AOR = 3.32, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 1.83–6.03). Based on these findings, it is recommended that an ergonomic risk assessment and prevention program be implemented, which should include educational awareness about lower back pain and its prevention among mine workers.

Indonesia is an archipelago nation that structures its health services through a stratified system. The public health center serves as the institution responsible for providing primary care services and undertaking various public goods initiatives, including promoting occupational health among workers in the informal sector. Integrated Occupational Health Services Post (Indonesian: Pos Upaya Kesehatan Kerja [Pos UKK]) is a community-based initiatives supported by public health centers that aims to address health-related issues among workers through a community participation model. Although the program appears to be well-suited to the country’s conditions, several challenges have emerged. This paper introduces the practical application of the program in the Province of Jakarta.

Stressors from everyday life, along with those from work and academic environment, may compromise the mental health and well-being of allied health professionals. With this study, we tried to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with burnout and depression among students of Bachelor of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy in Delhi NCR region. This cross-sectional study was carried out among 197 students pursuing a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) and Occupational Therapy (BOT) in Delhi, NCR region. Data collection was online, using Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to assess burnout and depression, respectively, along with basic socio-demographic information. Data analysis was carried out on Stata 15.1. Prevalence was estimated, and factors associated with Burnout and depression were explored using Linear and logistic regression models, respectively. Among 197 participants, the majority were females and the mean age was 22 years. The prevalence of burnout and depression was 79.7% (95% CI: 73.4, 84.7) and 66.5% (95% CI: 59.6, 72.7), respectively. Some factors, like experiencing symptoms of physical exhaustion and satisfaction with academic support from faculty at college, were associated with both burnout and depression separately. The prevalence of burnout and depression among BPT/BOT students in Delhi, NCR, was alarming yet comparable to other health professionals in India and globally. The study provides a narrative of these issues along with associated factors identified among the study population. A need for a longitudinal study to establish a causal association of factors with burnout and depression among this study population is iterated.

A commitment to safety is not a once-a-year endeavor that requires minimum training or awareness, but rather, it is a comprehensive concern for all stakeholders. Every business should provide a safe environment for their workers. This paper provides an overview of safety concerns, legal requirements, and best practices based on a review of the literature and government fatality data in the workplace, especially in the construction industry. Managers and human resource professionals must ensure their workplace places are as safe as possible. Using personality assessments to identify high-safety risk professionals can be one tool in their toolbox for creating and sustaining a safe and healthy work environment.

To prevent landslides, the slope is a crucial component that needs to be evaluated. Mining activities produce slopes, both natural slopes and artificial slopes, and if a slope is not designed properly, its stability will be adversely affected. The purpose of this study is to determine the stability of a slope supported by sedimentary rocks as the constituent material of the slope. Data processing is carried out using the RS2 Version 11 software and finite element methods (FEMs) by considering the value of the strength reduction factor (SRF) and maximum displacement of the slope. The results obtained for stage 1 show that a maximum displacement of 0 m was obtained, along with a critical value of SRF = 1. A maximum displacement of 0.2 m was obtained in stage 2, with a critical SRF of 1.25. In stage 3, 0.2 m was the highest attained displacement, and the critical SRF was 1.26. A maximum displacement of 0.4 m and a critical SRF of 1.31 were found in stage 4. The maximum displacement in stage 5 was 0.8 m, while the critical SRF was 1.34, and the critical SRF in stage 6 was 1.35, while the maximum displacement was 0.8 m. Finally, the maximum displacement in stage 7 was 1.6 m, while the critical SRF was 1.36. A general pattern emerged from the results of stages 1 through 7. Specifically, the maximum permitted displacement value increased with the critical value of SRF. As the slope moved, it also became more stable, with a big critical SRF. If a slope’s deformation exceeds 1.6 m, it will collapse at a safety factor of 1.36. Furthermore, the contour level showed that the factor of safety (FoS) falls between 1.4 and 4.2. Additionally, as sigma 1 and 3 increase, the resulting FoS value increases as well.

Occupational accidents are a serious public health issue. In this retrospective observational study, we examined all injuries involving healthcare workers of the Abruzzo Local Health Authority No. 1 (Italy) during the three years 2019–2021. Data were collected by tracing the injury reports filed by the emergency service during the workers’ admission and analyzing the cause, type, distribution by sex, and geographical district to which they belonged, taking into account the period before and during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Most injuries (45.7%) were reported in the Marsica area; the most common cause was commuting accidents (10.7%). Assaults were more common among men (8.6%), while commuting accidents were more common among women (11.8%). In 36% of cases, the upper limbs were affected. The most common type of injury was contusions (22.2%). When the frequency of reports was compared between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods, there was an increase in injuries in healthcare assistants (p = 0.052), while the percentage of injuries in administrative (p = 0.056) and other categories decreased (p = 0.002). This analysis allows us to identify points of interest relating to the Marsica area, to specific types of accidents, such as aggression and commuting accidents, and to specific duties.

The construction industry presents significant high risks of injury and fatality to its workforce. Adopting prevention through design (PtD) principles is reported to have high potential for mitigating such risks and improving safety outcomes. PtD seeks to assess and reduce workplace hazards during the design phase, minimizing unsafe construction conditions. Despite its potential benefits, the construction industry encounters challenges in effectively utilizing PtD. Thus, the implementation of PtD in the US construction industry is limited, and designers’ awareness remains low. This evident lack of utilization warrants further examination of the contributing factors. The goal of this study is to identify and rank PtD utilization barriers in the United States (US) construction industry. This study pinpointed 12 pivotal barriers to PtD implementation through a systematic literature review. These barriers were categorized into industry-, project-, designer-, and client-related domains. Furthermore, they were grouped into three clusters based on their influence on PtD implementation from the most to the least influence, based on an expert matter questionnaire. This study also compared the experts’ rankings of the identified barriers with their citation frequencies in the reviewed articles. Among other observations, this study found that the lack of PtD professional training and formal education for project stakeholders negatively impacts the likelihood of PtD utilization and exacerbates several other barriers. Therefore, it is advisable to prioritize addressing this barrier by allocating the necessary resources and efforts to efficiently address it. Construction industry stakeholders with a vested interest in advancing PtD applications are encouraged to leverage the insights this study provides to expedite the adoption of PtD.

Test methods that use pushing forces to evaluate the maximal load capacities of carts in design standards require a flat, smooth and horizontal steel plate and thus do not take into account the real conditions of work. Resistive forces of a single wheel of a cart in a uniform rectilinear motion were measured using a unique test bench with five loads. Forty-four wheels were tested (varying diameters, treads and bearings) with one steel plate and four resilient floor coverings. Based on a linear mixed model, all the following results were significant (p < 0.05). Resistive forces were increased linearly with the load and depended on the characteristics of both the wheel and floor. These forces decreased as the diameter increased. They were important for wheels with sleeve bearings but decreased for cone ball bearings and precision ball bearings. Resistive forces depended on the material of the tread and were higher for solid rubber treads. In contrast, the hardness of the tread had little effect. Resistive forces strongly depended on the hardness of the base foam of resilient floor coverings: the softer the base foam, the higher the resistive forces. Test methods in design standards should be reviewed, using corrective forces based on these present results, to prevent musculoskeletal disorders.

Any system for evaluating the safety service performance of heavy-haul railway lines must effectively reflect the real-time service status of the line. The working conditions of heavy-load lines are complex and diverse, particularly on uphill sections. Existing evaluation systems struggle to accurately reflect the service conditions of long and steep uphill sections bearing heavy loads, posing a significant threat to the safe operation of these lines. To address this problem, we propose a new method for evaluating the safety service performance of long and steep uphill sections of heavy-haul railway lines by establishing a scoring system based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). First, damage indicators for heavy-haul lines are categorized into three groups: track geometry status indicators, track structure status indicators, and track traffic status indicators. Using data from existing heavy-haul lines and maintenance experiences, we determine a score deduction standard, classifying lines into four levels based on their safety service quality. Next, we establish a coefficient table for the service performance of long and steep uphill sections after the corresponding scores are deducted. Using data for the length and elevation grade of the actual uphill section, we adjust the deducted scores of the track structure status indicators, enhancing the evaluation system’s accuracy in describing the working conditions. Finally, we verify the stability of the entire system by conducting a sensitivity analysis of the indicator evaluation results using the One-At-a-Time (OAT) method. This method fills a critical gap in the safe operation and maintenance of heavy-haul railways and provides a safety guarantee for the operation of long uphill sections of heavy-haul railways.

Environmental factors have been identified as having a direct relationship with physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior. The main aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between microscale built-environment attributes and the levels of PA and sedentary behavior in young people. This study included 465 adolescents (55% girls) between 14 and 18 years from Valencia, Spain. Accelerometers and self-reported questionnaires were used to measure PA, including active commuting, and sedentary behavior, and the MAPS (Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes)-Global tool was used for microscale variables. Mixed-effects regression models were used for data analysis. Higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous activity were identified when more positive elements were found in the street characteristics. Greater active commuting in the neighborhood had a positive relationship not only with more positive elements of land use and destinations but also with the overall score of the MAPS-Global tool. The sedentary levels were higher when higher levels of negative aesthetics and social characteristics were identified, and the participants were less sedentary when more bike facilities were observed. The main results of this study provide us with evidence of the relationship between the microscale variables of the built environment and both PA and sedentary behavior.

Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are preferred for constructing tunnels, particularly for underground mass transit railways, because of their speed, minimal environmental impact, and increased safety. However, TBM tunneling involves unavoidable risks, necessitating careful assessment and management for successful project completion. This study presents a novel hybrid risk-analysis method for tunnel construction using TBMs. The proposed method integrates fault tree analysis (FTA) and the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (fuzzy AHP). FTA was employed to calculate the probabilities of risk occurrences, while fuzzy AHP was utilized to determine the consequences of the risks. These probability and consequence values were used to calculate continuous risk levels for more accurate risk analysis. The proposed method was applied to a real case of metro line construction. The results demonstrated that the proposed method effectively analyzes the risks, accurately reflecting decision support data. The risks were categorized based on the continuous risk levels in descending order. The most significant risk was the deterioration of the TBM. The benefits of this study provide project managers and stakeholders involved in underground construction with a new risk-analysis method that enhances work safety and facilitates the timely execution of urban tunnel construction projects.

Exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust is one of the most common and severe risks due to the associated health outcomes among workers and results in many occupational-related lung diseases, such as silicosis and lung cancer. The study aimed to determine knowledge, attitudes, and practices on occupation health and safety among mine workers exposed to crystalline silica dust in Lesotho. A descriptive retrospective cross-sectional study design was used in the study. A record review guide was used to retrieve secondary data from the Southern Africa Tuberculosis and Health Systems Support (SATBHSS) project, which were thereafter entered into STATA software, version 17 for descriptive and inferential analysis. The study participants were purposively selected. Most participants were between the ages of 31 to 40 years of age and there was a significant difference between the genders with 35 (9%) females and 350 (91%) males. The majority of the participants had a high school level of education (305, 79%). The knowledge was generally positive in the study with a knowledge score mean of 13.43 (standard deviation: 2.99). The miners agreed with most attitude statements except for A1 (25%), A2 (35%), A3 (18%), and A4 (31%). The practice of exposed mine workers in the study was influenced by working in a dolerite mine (p = 0.003), knowledge score (p ˂ 0.001), and having an attitude about health and safety rules at the mine (p ˂ 0.001; 95% CI: 0.92 to 0.79), while age was a protective factor in the study. The findings of this study highlighted positive knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward occupational health and safety among mine workers. However, more educational programs can be implemented to ensure all mine workers understand the importance of good knowledge, positive attitude, and appropriate practices towards occupational health and safety in their environment.

Background. Civil aviation comprises airlines/charters and general aviation (GA). Currently, airlines are experiencing a pilot shortage, partly reflecting scheduled retirements mandatory for airline (but not GA) pilots aged 65 years, fueling a debate as to whether the retirement age should be increased. Herein, using 16–40 years-of-age aviators as a reference, we determined whether GA pilots aged 60+ years (i) incurred an elevated accident rate, employing, for the first time, age-tiered flight time as a measure of risk exposure and (ii) carried an excess risk for cognitive deficiency-related fatal accidents. Methods. Airplane accidents (2002–2016) involving Class 3 medical certificated pilots were per the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) databases. Age-tiered pilot risk exposure represented a summation of flight hours per Class 3 medical applications. Cognitive decline measures were per NTSB field codes. Statistical analyses employed Chi-Square, Mann–Whitney, logistic regression, and binomial tests. Results. Using flight hours as the denominator, the fatal accident rate for older pilots (41–80 years) was unchanged compared with aviators aged 16–40 years. In the logistic regression, no cognitive deficiency measure was predictive (p = 0.11, p = 0.15) for pilots aged 61+ years who were involved in fatal accidents. Conclusion. These findings question the necessity of an automatic disqualification of air transport pilots at 65 years of age.

The industrial revolution aimed to ease the experience of life for human beings by reducing the manual efforts that life required and fulfilling the needs of a society with an increasing population [...]

Industrial wool textile production exposes workers mainly to the biomechanical loading of the shoulder joint. In this work context, which is characterized by poor machine ergonomics, exposure to biomechanical risk factors, and variable work organization, exoskeletons could facilitate work processes or could be a valuable means to protect workers from overuse injuries. Field evaluation is essential to verify the suitability of specific devices and their acceptance by users. As part of a pilot study, we examined the short-term subjective effects of a passive Arm-Support Exoskeleton (ASE) on workers performing repetitive overhead tasks. In a textile factory, eight workers participated in the study, answering questionnaires after carrying out a work session with (ASE) and without an exoskeleton (FREE). Participants had been using the Paexo exoskeleton for 4.2±5.8 months (min 0–max 12). Subjective evaluations were collected regarding the workload (NASA-TLX) and relief (Borg’s CR10 scale) obtained from the use of the exoskeleton, satisfaction (Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST)), usability (System Usability Scale (SUS)), and opinions on the ergonomics of the device (Ergonomics questionnaire). Workers reported a high workload (NASA 7.2±1.0) and assessed a 46% reduction in effort on the CR10 in ASE conditions compared to FREE. They expressed high satisfaction with most characteristics of the ASE (100% satisfied with durability and effectiveness), high level of usability (62% of scores above 80, out of a maximum score of 100), and ergonomics of the device (88±12, out of a maximum score of 110). In addition to the objective effects (electromyography (EMG) reduction) already demonstrated in a previous publication, these qualitative results demonstrate a positive perception by textile workers regarding the effectiveness, usability, and suitability of the exoskeleton. The adoption of ASE in the textile industry appears beneficial in the short term, but the impact associated with individual variables and long-term effects remains to be explored.

On 1 January 2024, a large earthquake occurred in Japan’s Noto region. Many buildings collapsed as a result of violent shaking. Electricity and water supplies were cut off, and communications were disrupted. On 5 January, four days after the earthquake, we visited Noto and conducted disaster-relief activities. This report integrates and discusses the results of the site visits, information broadcasts by public institutions, and previous research. Evacuation centers lacked water and proper sanitation, leading to health issues, including infectious diseases. Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMAT) were delayed in implementing infection control measures. Isolated evacuation centers faced communication and supply challenges. Infrastructure restoration, power supply, and toilet facilities at evacuation centers were delayed because of geographical challenges. It is important to have a team that can determine and carry out the necessary activities on site, even without instructions from the DMAT. It is believed to be effective to decide in advance how volunteer teams and the private sector will conduct their activities, assuming that they will be unable to contact public institutions during a disaster. In large-scale disasters, evacuees must operate evacuation centers autonomously. To achieve this, it is necessary for residents to regularly come together as a community. Systematically recording and accumulating these experiences will contribute to improved disaster prevention and mitigation planning. We hope that the experiences we obtained through the abovementioned disaster will be useful for preparing for future disasters.

The occupational health and safety of agricultural workers is a topic that has a direct impact on the agricultural sector worldwide. For this reason, investigations into ergonomic factors are relevant to the health and safety of agricultural workers. In this study, nine variables of the physical–ergonomic dimension were analyzed to determine which factors represent occupational risks for agricultural workers in Mayo Valley, Mexico. A sample of 200 people was considered. The sample was separated by gender and divided into groups according to age. A closed-ended survey was developed and validated to assess physical ergonomics variables using a five-level Likert scale. Using Principal Component Analysis, it was found that there are physical ergonomic variables that affect male agricultural workers more than female workers (the risk of carrying heavy objects, PE3, and the risk of performing repetitive movements, PE4). It was also found that certain physical ergonomic variables are not perceived as hazardous by agricultural workers (the risk of using inappropriate materials, PE9). In addition, various research findings are discussed to determine the implications and recommendations for improving the occupational health and safety of agricultural workers in Mayo Valley, Mexico.

Total quality management (TQM) is a strategic philosophy that has adopted kaizen activities which drives the business to carry out activities effectively to yield the best desired output, hence, a profitable organization. The kaizen philosophy acts as a catalyst in productivity rate and integrated management systems (IMS) which results in drastic improvements. When the nonconformity arises within the process, the accuracy of the problem solving determines quality of preventive action, therefore the preventive action should be accompanied by the opportunity of improvement from the raised nonconformance. This research seeks to add more knowledge and upgrade technology of problem-solving models relating to the integrated management systems by examining various troubleshooting models for problem solving and preventive action related to quality nonconformances, safety incidents and engineering breakdowns. Hence, the aim of this research is for troubleshooting model technique enhancement for issues related to process engineering, quality management systems and occupational health and safety by creating a model which analyses kaizen projects from the corrective and preventive action analysis of nonconformances. The proposed troubleshooting model was developed using lean techniques and risk rating tools; it was then applied to the case study company for simulation and the outcomes resulted in the closure of nonconformances and continual improvement of future projects. The proposed model is more advantageous to the manufacturing industries seeking to improve their Corrective Action and Preventive Action (CAPA) systems.

Repetitive movements and the speed of upper limbs increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. This study aimed to analyse the risk of shoulder injuries in repetitive tasks by evaluating the humerus angle, angular velocity, and angular acceleration during simulated chicken wing cutting. The study was conducted in a laboratory simulating a real environment. Thirty-six healthy right-handed volunteers were assessed using an electromagnetic tracking device, TrakSTAR, integrated with MotionMonitor™ (Innovative Sports Training, Inc. Chicago, IL) and software to collect 3-D kinematic data developed in the research centre. The equipment measured the angles performed by the upper limbs during the entire movement. The humerus angles were automatically transformed into angular velocity (°·s−1) and angular acceleration (°·s−2). Maximum angular velocities were 27.39°·s−1 (men, right humerus) and 22.39°·s−1 (women, left humerus), both below the safe limit. Maximum accelerations were 25.32°·s−2 (men, left side) and 28.94°·s−2 (women, left side); safety values for these accelerations are not established. Monotony is a risk factor, especially for the dominant side. Future studies should evaluate risk factors simultaneously in repetitive tasks. Repetitiveness exceeds the safe limit according to the OCRA method.

Within the dynamic, complex, and often safety-critical operations of many process industries, the integration of technology and human elements has given rise to sociotechnical systems (STSs), where the interaction between people and technology plays a pivotal role. To thrive in this complex environment, organizations must adopt adaptive error management strategies and cultivate organizational resilience. This approach involves managing the unexpected and designing systems to embrace disorder by organizational learning from errors in STSs. The main objective of this article was to present empirical data of error-causing elements in STSs based on the Dirty Dozen concept, their underlying structure, and implications for error causation screening and adaptive error management systems. A sample of 544 workers employed in seven process industries, such as automotive, chemicals, defense, metal, and timber, participated in this study. The results revealed a three-factor model of human error causation in STSs. Based on these results, an adaptive error management system (AEMS), which includes evidence-based interventions to manage causes of human errors and mitigate their risky consequences, was presented. Finally, implications for organizational resilience and safety culture in STSs were discussed.

Wildland firefighting represents a physically and mentally demanding endeavour fraught with various risk factors. The primary aim of this study is to delineate occupational chemical exposure within the firefighting work environment on the firefront and its implications for firefighters’ health status. A systematic literature review was conducted utilising diverse keyword combinations across Scopus, Web of Science, Academic Search Complete, and ScienceDirect databases. Only English-language journal articles, real-world monitoring reports, and studies featuring samples of firefighters were considered for inclusion. Forty-one studies were analysed, with 26 focusing on firefighters’ occupational exposure to chemical agents during wildland firefighting and 15 addressing the health impairments of wildland firefighting activities. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), VOCs, and particulates emerged as the most prevalent chemical agents in the exposure profiles of frontline firefighters. They were shown to be the main incidents of cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and work-related cancer. The rigorous demands of wildland firefighting have been demonstrated to significantly impact firefighter health, resulting in a notable prevalence of fatalities and illnesses. Given that an elevated number of health issues are common in this occupation, adopting advanced assessment technologies is imperative.

This cross-sectional analysis of secondary data aimed to examine the injury prevalence, treatment, and associated healthcare expenditure among older adults in India. Longitudinal Aging Study India Wave 1 data for those aged 60+ years comprising sociodemographic characteristics and self-reported major injury, injury mechanism, falls and joint/bone fractures, treatment sought, and out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) were analyzed. Descriptive, relative risk, bivariate, and two-part regression model analyses were conducted. Fifteen percent of the 31,464 older adults surveyed had experienced a major injury, 13% a fall and 5% a bone/joint fracture. The risk of injury increased with age and income and was higher for urban residents and females. Seventy-eight percent of those who experienced injury sought medical treatment, 56% needing treatment for a serious fall and 3% undergoing surgery. Higher proportions of females than males required medical treatment for falls and injury-related surgery, yet on average, females were spending less than males for public or private hospital treatment. Injury-related OOPE increased with age and decreased with lower education. Scaling up injury prevention efforts specifically focused on older adults will be vital given the projected growth in the older adult population in India in coming years. Such efforts will prevent unnecessary health impacts and reduce health system utilization and associated individual and family economic burden.

Mining industry activities are fraught with inherent exposure to occupational health and safety hazards, often with fatal outcomes, injuries and occupational diseases. This occurs amidst the introduction of contemporary mining methods and targeted health and safety regulation. This historical study evaluated company annual reports through document analysis, on a textual level, to evaluate the extent of OHS performance reporting, a measure of the attainment status of the zero-harm aspirational goal. The reporting of OHS performance indicators in annual reports by South African mining companies is widespread, though variable in format, content and context. There were variances in the reporting of OHS indicators by the case mining companies which obfuscate attempts for intra- and inter-company comparisons of OHS performance. The case companies included have not attained the stated goal of zero harm in view of the historically reported and protracted incidences of fatalities, injuries and occupational diseases, a direct threat to the decent work principle. The status quo challenges all affected stakeholders, including regulators, employers, employees and unions alike, to continuously investigate measures for arresting the situation.

As one of the most perilous industries, agriculture presents both fatal and non-fatal risks to farmers. Pakistan, a notable Asian nation, heavily depends on agriculture, which constitutes 23% of its GDP and employs 37.4% of its workforce. The study investigates the challenges within Pakistan’s agriculture sector and enriches the existing literature by gathering data on agricultural machine-related injuries in Pakistan during 2022–2023. The survey, conducted from November 2022 to April 2023, involved 55 respondents, predominantly from Sindh and Punjab. The findings indicate a total of 507 injuries, with approximately a quarter being fatal (121 incidents). Sindh emerges as a significant hotspot, with the majority of injuries documented there. With respect to the key sources of injuries, the fodder cutter is a primary source of injuries with 201 injuries documented, accounting for approximately 40% of all injuries. Threshers contributed to 197 injuries, approximately 39% of the total, and about 52 are tractor-related injuries, making up about 10% of machine injuries. Regarding the severity and demographics of injuries, about 38% of cases involve amputation, with a higher incidence among males (77%) and individuals aged 15–34 years (65%). It is important to acknowledge the study’s limitations, including a small participant pool and a brief data collection period. This research advocates for safety regulations, accident reduction measures, and increased safety awareness among farmers, aiming to foster a safer and more sustainable agricultural environment in Pakistan.

Logistics activities involve significant risk factors for the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD), particularly low back pain. Exoskeletons have emerged as potential solutions to mitigate these risks. This study assesses the short-term effects of dual passive back-support exoskeletons (Auxivo and Htrius) on WMSD risk factors in logistics operations. Two workstations were evaluated using self-report ratings, postural assessment, and surface electromyography (EMG). The results indicate that both exoskeletons provided relief and support during tasks, with Htrius showing a slight advantage. Exoskeletons reduced perceived exertion, especially during trunk flexion tasks, and improved posture, particularly in tasks involving manual lifting loads at lower height levels. While variations in muscular activity were observed, the Htrius exoskeleton showed a trend of reducing lumbar muscle activity. Overall, Htrius demonstrated promise in improving workers’ comfort, safety, and efficiency, potentially reducing WMSD risk and muscular fatigue. However, individual preferences and workplace-specific characteristics should be considered when selecting exoskeleton models. Future research should explore the effects on different loads, genders, and EMG of different muscles to further enhance the understanding and application of exoskeletons in occupational contexts.

Issues in construction safety in Tanzania cast a long shadow, claiming lives and hindering project success. Understanding the complex dynamics at play is crucial for improving safety performance. This research aims to develop a system dynamics model to understand the factors influencing safety performance in building construction projects. Smart PLS was used to identify key variables using factor reduction, and 19 factors were determined as key factors to be used in this study from 143 variables from a questionnaire; then, STELLA was used to develop system dynamic modelling. A study was conducted on 255 building construction projects in five regions of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Arusha, Mwanza, and Mbeya, and later, the model was tested in one contractor’s company. By simulating the interactions between these diverse elements and their impact on accident rates, it was found that both safety performance and safety management processes for construction projects are not stagnant but are expected to rise at the beginning of the project and to grow steadily as the project execution approaches its end. The sensitivity analysis conducted on the system dynamics model found that the extent, frequency, and cost of incidences are positively correlated. This study contributes facts on the status of safety climate, a new definition of safety climate, and the integration of different analysis methods in evaluating safety performance in Tanzania.

Protecting people from the risks associated with products is a critical concern in today’s economy. Pakistan, being the world’s fifth most populous country, lacks the framework of warning labels and therefore faces a significant gap in product warning labels. Pakistan is a representative of a number of countries that export a variety of products to Pakistan; however, warning labels on these goods are typically in English, which might mislead people of Pakistan in perceiving the hazard level. It is therefore imperative to conduct research into the non-textual and cross-cultural understanding of labels from the perspective of Pakistan. This study examined the applicability of ANSI Z535.4 in the context of Pakistan. A total of 66 (34 male and 32 female) undergraduate students with a mean age of 20.5 participated in this study. A meticulous experiment was designed using a nine-point rating scale with anchors on both sides, where one represented ‘not at all hazardous’ and nine represented ‘extremely hazardous’. Participants rated each component of warning labels, i.e., color, symbol, signal words, and their complex configurations. The results showed alignment with the ANSI Z535.4 standards for some components (i.e., colors, symbols, and signal words) and complex configurations, whereas no significant difference was found in perceived hazard levels between green (M = 3.167), blue (M = 3.591, and yellow (M = 3.652) colors, with a p-value greater than 0.05. Participants did not differentiate significantly between signal words, i.e., caution (M = 5.182) and warning (M = 5.879). Participants also did not differentiate significantly between complex configurations, i.e., safety alert–caution–yellow (M = 5.076) and safety alert–warning–orange (M = 5.197), with p-values greater than 0.05. These results state that discrepancies in the perception of warning labels exist. This study is the first of its kind conducted in the context of Pakistan, which will help policy makers to consider the findings before implementing a policy. In fact, differences in perception could result in failure to take appropriate precautions. Nonetheless, these nuances can be overcome with proper awareness through training for the people.

Fire alarm systems are an important part of the safety concept in complex buildings. For this reason, there are high availability requirements for the systems, which must be sustained by a maintenance concept. A shortage of skilled workers and rising costs in the construction and operation of buildings are pushing these concepts ever further. This study deals with proposed changes to the maintenance strategies to achieve cost and time savings in addition to an improvement in quality. As a first part of the work, the current state of research on developments in fire alarm systems and their maintenance and inspection concepts is analyzed within a literature review. The results serve as a basis for further research, which is based on a qualitative content analysis of expert interviews and standardized surveys to identify the weaknesses in current inspection strategies and future factors influencing the methods and technology of inspections through technical innovations. As a data basis for this study, expert interviews were conducted with experts from manufacturers, industry associations, and standards bodies in order to determine the possible influencing factors. To determine their relevance for the inspection, more than 40 experts were surveyed about testing the systems. The presented results show that new technical risks, such as cyber threats and networked plant structures, are insufficiently covered by current inspection strategies. Furthermore, inspection steps can be substituted by new technologies. The most important influencing factors that can be identified here are automatic self-test functions of components and remote inspection techniques of the systems. Finally, the results are discussed within the framework of a PESTEL analysis. In conclusion, it can be stated that the integration of identified impacts in future inspection strategies brings time and efficiency benefits in the operation of systems.

This study examined injuries sustained by a six-year-old child dummy in a numerical dolly rollover crash using a Toyota Yaris 2010. A harmonic dynamic system (HDS) composed of spring, dampers, and masses with a Low Back Booster (LBB) is denominated as HDS-LBB model. The HDS-LBB was designed to allow damping movements along three Cartesian axes (X, Y, Z) to reduce the energy transferred to the child by a motor vehicle accident and avoid a high injury risk. The HDS-LBB incorporates springs into the vertical axis to decrease the vertical movement during the rollover. The numerical analysis was conducted using LS-Dyna® R12.1 version during an interval of 1 s, and the boundary conditions were set by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 213 for child restraint recommendations and the FMVSS 208 for a dolly rollover procedure. Data on head and thorax decelerations, neck flexion-extension, and thoracic deflection were acquired at a rate of 1 ms. The injury values obtained by the HDS-LBB were compared with the injury values by another configuration denominated LBB-ISOFIX to assess the effectiveness of the model proposed. The results show a higher peak injury value in the neck and thorax because of seatbelt displacement across the child’s shoulder. Nevertheless, despite this seatbelt behavior, the injuries sustained remained below the Injury Assessment Reference Values (IARVS).

Decisions are a crucial aspect of human life, especially when made in emergency contexts. This research involved 348 subjects, evaluating the relationship between socio-demographic variables and the choice of one of the proposed emergency scenarios suitable for reproducing a decision-making condition in an emergency. Three scenarios were presented: one on climate change, one on pandemics, and one on seismic events. The survey captured individuals’ perceptions of the scenarios for dimensions such as realism (present, past, and future), emotions, risk, worry, emergency, catastrophe, immediate choice, and immediate decision. The results suggest that age, gender, education, and previous experience are predictive factors for subjects’ preferences regarding the chosen scenario and their evaluation of the related dimensions. To optimize decisions in emergencies by institutional decision makers and crisis managers, it is useful to expand knowledge and have data relevant to this area. This research provides a basis in terms of data and tools for designing future research and studies on decision making in emergency contexts.

The natural gas distribution system is made up of an extensive network of pipelines and some equipment such as regulators, valves, filters, meters and converters that require maintenance to maintain operation and identify any gas leaks in advance. The risk analysis process is widely used in the gas industries to locate faults in operations and processes that could cause accidental release of chemicals, fire or explosion and to provide decisions to improve operational risk safety. It was concluded that for risk analysis (PRA) accidents occur due to lack of maintenance in the facilities and equipment set and the Eisenberg Vulnerability Method provided an assessment of the probability of damage to infrastructure and damage to the environment for 1%, 50% and 99% lethality.

The current article deals with the determination of fire parameters of ground sweet pepper (GSP) dust cloud. The minimum ignition temperature was determined in accordance with STN EN ISO/IEC 80079-20-2:2016 Standard Explosive atmospheres - Part 20-2, using a Godbert-Greenwald furnace apparatus with various dust concentrations, particle sizes, and dust-dispersion-air pressure (10 kPa, 30 kPa and 50 kPa). Three set of different particle size ranges of GSP powder were tested during the experiment, that is, 90 to