Impact of air quality on the health of present-day workers in an Asbestos roof manufacturing industry, Sri Lanka.

The study's objective was to determine the air quality in an asbestos-related industry and its impact on current workers' respiratory health. Seventy-seven air and 65 dust samples were collected at 5-day intervals in an asbestos roofing sheets production factory in Sri Lanka having two production facilities. Sampling was performed in ten sites: Defective sheets-storage, Production-plant, Pulverizer, Cement-silo, and Loading-area. A detailed questionnaire and medical screening were conducted on 264 workers, including Lung Function Tests (LFT) and chest X-rays. Asbestos fibres were observed in deposited dust samples collected from seven sites. Free chrysotile fibres were absent in the breathing air samples. Scanning Electron Microscopy confirmed the presence of asbestos fibres, and the Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis revealed Mg, O, and Si in depositions. The average concentrations of trace metals were Cd-2.74, Pb-17.18, Ni-46.68, Cr-81.01, As-7.12, Co-6.77, and Cu-43.04 mg/kg. The average Zn, Al, Mg, and Fe concentrations were within 0.2-163 g/kg. The highest concentrations of PM2.52.5 and PM1010, 258 and 387 µg/m3, respectively, were observed in the Pulverizer site. Forty-four workers had respiratory symptoms, 64 presented LFT abnormalities, 5 indicated chest irregularities, 35.98% were smokers, and 37.5% of workers with abnormal LFT results were smokers. The correlation coefficients between LFT results and work duration with respiratory symptoms and work duration and chest X-ray results were 0.022 and 0.011, respectively. In conclusion, most pulmonary disorders observed cannot directly correlate to Asbestos exposure due to negligible fibres in breathing air, but fibres in the depositions and dust can influence the pulmonary health of the employees.

Characterization of VOC emissions and health risk assessment in the plastic manufacturing industry.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) significantly contribute to ozone pollution formation, and many VOCs are known to be harmful to human health. Plastic has become an indispensable material in various industries and daily use scenarios, yet the VOC emissions and associated health risks in the plastic manufacturing industry have received limited attention. In this study, we conducted sampling in three typical plastic manufacturing factories to analyze the emission characteristics of VOCs, ozone formation potential (OFP), and health risks for workers. Isopropanol was detected at relatively high concentrations in all three factories, with concentrations in organized emissions reaching 322.3 µg/m3, 344.8 µg/m3, and 22.6 µg/m3, respectively. Alkanes are the most emitted category of VOCs in plastic factories. However, alkenes and oxygenated volatile organic compounds (OVOCs) exhibit higher OFP. In organized emissions of different types of VOCs in the three factories, alkenes and OVOCs contributed 22.8%, 67%, and 37.8% to the OFP, respectively, highlighting the necessity of controlling them. The hazard index (HI) for all three factories was less than 1, indicating a low non-carcinogenic toxic risk; however, there is still a possibility of non-cancerous health risks in two of the factories, and a potential lifetime cancer risk in all of the three factories. For workers with job tenures exceeding 5 years, there may be potential health risks, hence wearing masks with protective capabilities is necessary. This study provides evidence for reducing VOC emissions and improving management measures to ensure the health protection of workers in the plastic manufacturing industry.

Prevalencia del síndrome del edificio enfermo en trabajadores de la industria manufacturera / Prevalence of sick building syndrome in manufacturing industry workers

El síndrome del edificio enfermo, se refiere a un conjunto de síntomas generales en mucosa (ocular y/o respiratoria) y piel que presentan los ocupantes de edificaciones con calidad ambiental deficientes, exponiendo a sus ocupantes a factores de riesgos físicos, mecánicos, químicos, biológicos y psicosociales, que puede afectar negativamente la salud y productividad de las personas. Con el propósito de determinar la frecuencia de los síntomas de los ocupantes de una industria manufacturera del Perú, se realizó estudio transversal aplicándose a 237 trabajadores, estratificados por áreas laborales, el cuestionario sugerido por el Instituto Nacional de Higiene y Seguridad en el Trabajo, además de evaluar la condición ambiental mediante la determinación de bioaerosoles cultivables y contables. Los resultados mostraron prevalencia superior al 20% en síntomas como: sequedad en ojos y garganta, picor en garganta congestión nasal, dolor de cabeza y debilidad general. Se tomaron, cuantificaron y caracterizaron 164 muestras de bioaerosoles, los microrganismos encontrados con mayor porcentaje fueron, Aspergillus sp. 54,68% (68) en el área administrativa, mientras que en las áreas de producción y almacén predomino Penicillium sp. con 87,10% (108) y 62,21% (77) respectivamente. Otros géneros encontrados en mayor porcentajes, en las tres áreas fueron: Trichoderma, Acremonium, Monilia, Cladosporium, entre otros. Los hallazgos se correlacionan con lo reportado en diversas investigaciones, la presencia de mencionados hongos, sugiere que existe una inadecuada calidad ambiental y aunada a la prevalencia obtenida en cuanto a sintomatología, se puede clasificar la edificación objeto de estudio con el Síndrome del edificio enfermo(AU)

Sick building syndrome refers to a set of general mucosal (ocular and/or respiratory) and skin symptoms presented by occupants of buildings with poor environmental quality, exposing their occupants to physical, mechanical, chemical, biological and psychosocial, which can negatively affect the health and productivity of people. In order to determine the frequency of the symptoms of the occupants of a manufacturing industry in Peru, a cross-sectional study was carried out, applying to 237 workers, stratified by work areas, the questionnaire suggested by the National Institute of Hygiene and Safety at Work, in addition to to evaluate the environmental condition by determining cultivable and countable bioaerosols. The results showed a prevalence greater than 20% in symptoms such as: dry eyes and throat, itchy throat, nasal congestion, headache and general weakness. 164 samples of bioaerosols were taken, quantified and characterized, the microorganisms found with the highest percentage were Aspergillus sp. 54.68% (68) in the administrative area, while in the production and storage areas, Penicillium sp. with 87.10% (108) and 62.21% (77) respectively. Other genera found in higher percentages in the three areas were: Trichoderma, Acremonium, Monilia, Cladosporium, among others. The findings correlate with what has been reported in various investigations, the presence of these fungi suggests that there is an inadequate environmental quality and, together with the prevalence obtained in terms of symptoms, the building under study can be classified with the Sick Building Syndrome(AU)

Exportación y sanitación internacional en empresas productoras de prendas de alpaca de Huancayo y Lima / Exportation and international sanitation in companies producing alpaca garments in Huancayo and Lima

El Perú se considera un país potencia en cuanto a la exportación textil de la alpaca, cuya fibra natural es muy fina, ligera y con alto valor a nivel mundial. Para el año 2019, la exportación total de fibra de alpaca en Perú llegó a un total de 23 países, incluyendo mercados en Europa, Asia y Norteamérica. La tendencia en el comercio exterior incluyendo las empresas textiles de alpaca, se ha dirigido a garantizar el cuidado del medio ambiente y la inocuidad de los productos respecto a la salud humana. Se realizó un estudio desde el paradigma post-positivista, con enfoque cualitativo y el método hermenéutico, para interpretar la situación de exportación y sanitación internacional en empresas peruanas productoras de prendas de alpaca en Huancayo y Lima. Se obtuvo información a partir de cuatro informantes voluntarios de cada empresa acerca de aspectos relacionados con exportación de las prendas de alpaca: competitividad, promoción, proveedores, producción, calidad de producto, valor agregado, calidad de servicio, mercados destino, demanda y herramientas de inteligencia comercial, entre otros. Asimismo, se indagó sobre la concepción y cumplimiento del Reglamento Sanitario Internacional. Las empresas evaluadas, emplean excelente materia prima, garantizan un control de calidad de sus productos ofreciendo textiles competitivos que se distribuyen en diversos mercados internacionales, emplean herramientas de comercialización que favorecen la identificación de regulaciones arancelarias y la capacitación de su personal. No obstante, muestran carencias en el cumplimiento del RSI, requiriendo adoptar medidas que garanticen la salud pública al comercializar sus productos(AU)

Peru is considered a powerful country in terms of alpaca textile exports, whose natural fiber is very fine, light and highly valued worldwide. For the year 2019, the total export of alpaca fiber in Peru reached a total of 23 countries, including markets in Europe, Asia and North America. The trend in foreign trade, including alpaca textile companies, has been aimed at guaranteeing care for the environment and the safety of products with respect to human health. A study was carried out from the post-positivist paradigm, with a qualitative approach and the hermeneutical method, to interpret the export situation and international sanitation in Peruvian companies that produce alpaca garments in Huancayo and Lima. Information was obtained from four volunteer informants from each company about aspects related to the export of alpaca garments: competitiveness, promotion, suppliers, production, product quality, added value, service quality, destination markets, demand and marketing tools. commercial intelligence, among others. Likewise, the conception and compliance with the International Health Regulations were inquired about. The evaluated companies use excellent raw material, guarantee quality control of their products by offering competitive textiles that are distributed in various international markets, use marketing tools that favor the identification of tariff regulations and the training of their personnel. However, they show deficiencies in compliance with the RSI, requiring the adoption of measures that guarantee public health when marketing their products(AU)

Formas de violencia y su relación con la inversión manufacturera departamental en Colombia: 2000-2013 / Forms of violence and its relation to departmental manufacturing investment in Colombia: 2000-2013

Durante décadas, la violencia ha afectado el desarrollo económico, político y social de Colombia. En este trabajo evaluamos los efectos de los delitos violentos contra las personas y la propiedad privada sobre el comportamiento de la inversión neta de la industria manufacturera en los departamentos de Colombia durante el período 2000-2013. Este trabajo se basa en los modelos propuestos por Acevedo y Mora (2009) y Acevedo y García (2015) y emplea información estadística de la Encuesta Anual de Manufactura y diversas formas de violencia (secuestros, robos y homicidios) obtenidas de la base de datos de la Revista Criminalidad para los 32 departamentos y Bogotá, D. C. Para ello se emplea un modelo de datos panel y se usa la bondad del ajuste como criterio para seleccionar los modelos que mejor se ajustan a los datos. La evidencia empírica muestra que la violencia medida por el número de secuestros, más que los homicidios y robos, es el fenómeno que más ha afectado la inversión en Colombia. Específicamente, un aumento del 1% en el número de secuestros reduce la inversión neta en un 0,04%. Estos resultados mostraron que Bolívar, Caquetá, Cesar, Meta y Tolima fueron los departamentos más afectados por la violencia en Colombia durante el período.

Comportamiento de lesiones por accidente de trabajo no mortales y con incapacidad temporal, en personas afiliadas al régimen general de seguridad social en Ecuador. Análisis temporal y territorial en ocupaciones manuales de las industrias manufacturera y de construcción, 2014-2019 / Behavior of non-fatal occupational injuries with temporary disability among members of Ecuador's general social security system. Temporal and territorial analysis in manual occupations in the manufacturing and construction industry, 2014 - 2019 / Comportamento de lesões profissionais não fatais e temporariamente incapacitadas em pessoas filiadas ao sistema geral de segurança social no Equador. Análise temporal e territorial em ocupações manuais das indústrias manufatureiras e de construção, 2014-2019

El análisis de datos cuantitativos de siniestralidad laboral es importante para orientar la gestión preventiva en la República del Ecuador. Se presenta un estudio ecológico exploratorio de la incidencia de lesiones por accidente de trabajo no mortales y con incapacidad temporal, en ocupaciones manuales de las industrias manufacturera y de construcción en 23 provincias del país, para el período comprendido entre 2014 y 2019. Como fuente se utilizaron los registros oficiales de trabajadoras y trabajadores afiliados al régimen general de seguridad social. Se apli- có el programa estadístico SPSS versión 21.0 y Tableau versión 3.0; se agruparon las provincias del Ecuador en cuartiles según el valor de la tasa de incidencia de las lesiones por cada 1.000 personas afiliadas, considerando año y actividad económica. Las tasas de incidencia mues- tran patrones similares para los dos sectores económicos y un decrecimiento progresivo en el período analizado, con valores semejantes en 2019. Los valores más altos se presentan en las provincias de Azuay, Guayas, Pichincha y Tungurahua. Se concluye que existen importantes di- ferencias geográficas, lo que demanda estrategias de prevención y disminución de accidentes de trabajo con participación de los equipos interdisciplinarios relacionados, incluyendo terapeutas ocupacionales.

Analyzing quantitative data on occupational accidents is essential to guide preventive management in the Republic of Ecuador. An exploratory ecological study of the incidence of non-fatal and temporary incapacity occupational injuries in manual occupations in the manufacturing and construction industries in 23 provinces is presented for the period 2014-2019. Official registers of workers registered in the general social security system were used as a source. The statistical software SPSS version 21.0 and Tableau version 3.0 were applied; Ecuador provinces were grouped into quartiles according to the value of the incidence rate of injuries per 1,000 registered persons, considering the year and economic activity. Incidence rates show similar patterns for the two economic sectors and a progres- sive decrease over the period analyzed, with similar values in 2019. The highest values are found in Azuay, Guayas, Pichincha and Tungurahua provinces. It is concluded that there are significant geographical differences, which calls for strategies to prevent and reduce occupational accidents with the participation of related interdisciplinary teams, including occupational therapists.

A análise de dados quantitativos sobre acidentes de trabalho é importante para orientar a gestão preventiva na República do Equador. Um estudo ecológico exploratório da in- cidência de acidentes de trabalho não fatais e de invalidez temporária é apresentado em ocupações manuais nas indústrias de manufatureira e de construção em 23 províncias do país, para o período entre 2014 e 2019. Como fonte, foram utilizados os registros oficiais dos trabalhadores filiados ao regime geral de previdência social. Os programas estatísticos SPSS (versão 21.0) e Tableau (versão 3.0) foram aplicados; as províncias do Equador foram agrupadas em quartis, de acordo com o valor da taxa de incidência de lesões por 1.000 afiliados, considerando ano e atividade econômica. As taxas de incidência apresentam padrões semelhantes para os dois setores econômicos e uma diminuição progressiva no pe- ríodo analisado, com valores semelhantes em 2019. Os maiores valores encontram-se nas províncias de Azuay, Guayas, Pichincha e Tungurahua. Conclui-se que existem diferenças geográficas importantes, que demandam estratégias de prevenção e de redução dos aciden- tes de trabalho com a participação de equipes interdisciplinares relacionadas, incluindo terapeutas ocupacionais.

Incidência e tendência temporal de acidentes de trabalho na indústria têxtil e de confecção: análise de Santa Catarina, Brasil, entre 2008 e 2017 / Incidence and time trend of occupational accidents in the textile and clothing industry: analysis of Santa Catarina, Brazil, between 2008 and 2017

RESUMO: Objetivo: Estimar a incidência e a tendência temporal dos acidentes de trabalho típicos na indústria têxtil e de confecção de Santa Catarina no período de 2008 a 2017. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico retrospectivo baseado nos dados da Relação Anual de Informações Sociais (RAIS). A tendência temporal foi analisada por meio do cálculo da mudança média anual e da regressão logística. Resultados: Houve tendência de queda na incidência de acidentes de trabalho em Santa Catarina no período estudado (8,8%). Observaram-se as maiores taxas de acidentes no ano de 2008 entre homens (12,6%), trabalhadores com faixa de idade entre 40 e 49 anos (6,7%), negros (7,4%), pessoas com menos de 12 anos de estudo (5,0%), com remuneração média de 3 a 7 salários mínimos (7,0%), com até quatro anos de tempo de emprego (6,9%), trabalhadores da fabricação de produtos têxteis (10,3%), estabelecimentos de médio porte (100 a 499 trabalhadores) (7,9%) e nas regiões da Grande Florianópolis (7,0%) e Vale do Itajaí (6,8%). Conclusões: O risco de acidente de trabalho típico caiu significativamente ao longo do período. Contudo futuros estudos são necessários para analisar novas relações que possam apontar outros fatores associados. Espera-se que este estudo possa contribuir para subsidiar ações de prevenção, promoção, proteção e reabilitação da saúde dos trabalhadores desse setor produtivo.

ABSTRACT: Objective: To estimate the incidence and time trend of typical work accidents in the textile and clothing industry in Santa Catarina from 2008 to 2017. Methods: This was a retrospective epidemiological study based on data from the Annual Social Information Report (RAIS). The time trend was analyzed by calculating the average annual change and logistic regression. Results: There was a downward trend in the incidence of occupational accidents in Santa Catarina during the period studied (8.8%). The highest incidence occurred in 2008 among men (12.6%), workers aged between 40 and 49 years (6.7%), black people (7.4%), people with less than 12 years of education (5.0%), with an average income of 3 to 7 minimum wages (7.0%), with up to 4 years of employment (6.9%), workers in the manufacture of textile products (10, 3%), medium-sized establishments (that is, between 100 and 499 workers; 7.9%) and in the regions of Greater Florianópolis (7.0%) and Vale do Itajaí (6.8%). Conclusions: The risk for typical occupational accidents dropped significantly over the period studied. However, future studies are needed to analyze new relationships that may point to other associated factors. It is hoped that this study can contribute to support measures for the prevention, promotion, protection and rehabilitation of the health of workers in this production sector.

Infección por COVID-19, una mirada a los factores ambientales relacionados con la pandemia / COVID-19 infection, a look at environmental factors related to the pandemic

Resumen La pandemia global por COVID-19 ha generado un sin número de alertas y cambios en las formas de habitar y de consumo. La triada medio ambiente-salud-individuo vuelve a ser protagonista en este escenario, en donde se aprecian graves fracturas en los sistemas de salud pública, hábitat y seguridad alimentaria. Como factor transversal a esos elementos, la contaminación ambiental se convirtió en un efecto facilitador de la pandemia pues la transmisión por contacto entre humanos a través de aerosoles representa la vía de contagio. Esta situación obligó al distanciamiento y confinamiento preventivo, medida que logró hacer evidente la pobreza, la inequidad y la desigualdad que se vive globalmente. Por otro lado, los cambios en la movilidad y la frecuencia de producción en industrias de manufactura trajo una reducción en los gases de efecto invernadero.

Abstract The global pandemic due to COVID-19 has generated countless alerts and changes in the ways of living and consuming, the environment, health and individual triad is once again the protagonist in this scenario where serious fractures in the public health systems, habitat and food security are seen. As a transverse factor to these elements, environmental contamination became a facilitating effect of the pandemic and transmission by contact between humans through aerosols represents the route of contagion, this situation forced the distancing and preventive confinement, this measure to makes evident the poverty, inequality and inequity that is experienced globally, on the other hand the changes in mobility and the frequency of production in manufacturing industries brought a reduction in greenhouse gases.

Percepción del beneficio del ejercicio para la prevención de trastornos musculoesqueléticos: una perspectiva del trabajador / Workers' perception of benefit of the exercise for the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders

Resumen: Distintas modalidades de prevención para disminuir la incidencia de Trastornos musculoesqueléticos (TME) han sido propuestas, sin embar go, no existe evidencia nacional sobre la valoración que hacen los trabajadores sobre las acciones implementadas por las empresas. El propósito de este estudio fue evaluar la percepción de los trabajadores sobre el beneficio del ejercicio en el puesto de trabajo (EPT) para prevenir TME. Método: Bajo el contexto de un estudio de evaluación de efectividad del ejercicio en la prevención de TME en trabajadores manu factureros, se le aplicó una encuesta de percepción a la totalidad de los trabajadores (n = 109). Resultados: Un 92.3% de los trabajadores con sidera importante realizar EPT y el 82.8% lo asocia a una conducta saludable, destaca un alto nivel de satisfacción en la práctica grupal de los ejercicios (96%) y estar de acuerdo con implementarla como estra tegia de prevención permanente. Conclusión: Los trabajadores otorgan gran importancia a la aplicación de EPT, independiente de su modali dad, los cuales tienden a relacionarse con la percepción positiva respec to a los efectos beneficiosos para su salud. La aplicación de esta moda lidad de ejercicios tiene una alta aceptabilidad por los trabajadores, facilitando su implementación y logro de objetivos.

Abstract: Different forms of prevention to reduce the incidence of musculoskel etal disorders (MSDs) have been proposed, however, there is no national evidence on the assessment made by workers on the actions implemented by companies. The purpose of this study was to assess workers' perception of the benefit of exercise in the workplace to prevent MSDs. Method: In the context of an evaluation study of exercise effectiveness in the prevention of MSDs in manufacturing workers, a perception survey was applied to all workers (n = 109). Results: 92.3% of the workers considered it important to exercise in the workplace and 82.8% associated it with a healthy behavior, they reported a high level of satisfaction in the group practice of the exer cises (96%) and agree to implement it as a permanent prevention strategy. Conclusion: The workers give high importance to the appli cation of exercise in the workplace, regardless of their modality, which tend to relate to positive perception and beneficial effects for their health.. The application of this type of exercise has a high acceptabil ity by workers, facilitating its implementation and achievement of objectives.

Trabalhador "compatível", fratura exposta no processo de produção da indústria automobilística: intensificação do trabalho e saúde em questão / "Compatible" workers, a compound fracture in the automobile industry: intensification of labor and the health implications / Trabajador "compatible", una brecha expuesta en el proceso de producción de la industria automovilística: intensificación del trabajo y salud en tela de juicio

Resumo: O atual processo de intensificação do trabalho se insere no contexto das transformações produtivas, no Brasil, a partir dos anos 1990, acarretando mudanças na produção social do desgaste operário e do perfil epidemiológico dos trabalhadores. Incapacidade para o trabalho por acidente e doença é um importante indicador do desgaste operário, sendo de interesse da área da saúde. O estudo objetiva analisar o processo de intensificação do trabalho e saúde da perspectiva do processo saúde-doença a partir da percepção dos trabalhadores de uma montadora automobilística da Região do ABC, em São Paulo, quando indagados acerca dos obstáculos ao retorno ao trabalho daqueles com restrição laboral por acidente ou doenças, comumente denominados de "compatível". Realizamos seis visitas à fabrica e vinte entrevistas com operários da produção. Os dados foram coletados entre março de 2010 e novembro de 2014. Os resultados revelam, na figura social do "compatível", uma fratura exposta pelo processo de produção, expressa nas práticas de intensificação do trabalho, caracterizada pelo ritmo intenso, adensamento do trabalho, prolongamento da jornada e gestão por estresse; ao mesmo tempo, apontam para a tendência de exclusão do trabalhador "compatível" da empresa. A pesquisa contribui para avançar na busca do conhecimento acerca da intensificação do trabalho e saúde, esperamos ter trazido subsídios para novas investigações na perspectiva da determinação do processo saúde-doença, com a incorporação da experiência dos trabalhadores.

Abstract: Today's intensification of labor is part of the industrial transformations under way in Brazil since the 1990s, involving changes in the social production of auto workers' strain and epidemiological profile. Accident- and disease-related absenteeism is an important indicator of auto workers' strain, with relevance to the health field. The study aims to analyze the intensification of labor and its health implications from the perspective of the health-disease process, based on workers' perceptions at an automobile assembly plant in the ABC Industrial Belt of São Paulo. Workers were asked about the obstacles to returning to work following work-related accidents or diseases (commonly referred to as "compatible" workers). We conducted six visits to the plant and 20 interviews with assembly line workers. Data were collected from March 2010 to November 2014. The results depict the social figure of the "compatible" worker, a "compound fracture" in the production process, expressed as the intensification of labor, characterized by an intense work pace, denser work, extended workdays, and heavy stress, while simultaneously pointing to a trend toward laying off "compatible" workers. The study contributes to the search for knowledge on the intensification of labor and its health implications. We hope to have produced backing for further research on determination of the health-disease process, based on the incorporation of workers' experience.

Resumen: El actual proceso de intensificación del trabajo se inserta en el contexto de las transformaciones productivas en Brasil, acaecidas a partir de los años noventa, y que acarrearon cambios en la producción social, en el desgaste del obrero y el perfil epidemiológico de los trabajadores. La incapacidad para el trabajo por accidente y enfermedad es un importante indicador del desgaste del trabajador, siendo un área de interés para la salud. El estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar el proceso de intensificación del trabajo y su repercusión en la salud, desde la perspectiva del proceso salud-enfermedad, a partir de la percepción de los trabajadores de una ensambladora automovilística de la Región del ABC, en São Paulo. Realizamos encuestas, a obreros con restricciones laborales por accidente o enfermedades, denominados comúnmente "compatibles", sobre sus obstáculos para el retorno al trabajo. Realizamos seis visitas a la fábrica y veinte entrevistas a obreros del área de producción. Los datos fueron recogidos entre marzo de 2010 y noviembre de 2014. Los resultados revelan, en la figura social del "compatible", una fractura expuesta por el proceso de producción, expresada en las prácticas de intensificación del trabajo, caracterizada por el ritmo intenso, densificación del trabajo, prolongación de la jornada y gestión del estrés; al mismo tiempo, apuntan hacia la tendencia de exclusión del trabajador "compatible" de la empresa. La investigación contribuye al avance en la búsqueda del conocimiento sobre la intensificación del trabajo y sus efectos sobre la salud. Esperamos servir de apoyo de nuevas investigaciones, desde la perspectiva del proceso salud-enfermedad, con la incorporación de la experiencia de los trabajadores.

Factores asociados a la ocurrencia de accidentes de trabajo en la industria manufacturera / Risk factors associated with occupational accidents in manufacturing industry

La alta prevalencia de accidentes de trabajo está directamente relacionada con el estrés laboral, el turno nocturno, el uso inadecuado o insuficiente de equipos de protección personal, el nivel educativo, manejo de sustancias químicas y el consumo de alcohol, sumado a factores de riesgo ergonómico tales como el ruido, movimientos repetitivos y temperaturas elevadas, que traen consigo una mayor incidencia de accidentes, destacando las caídas de personas al mismo o distinto nivel, caída de objetos, aplastamiento y atrapamiento de miembros. Con todo lo anterior, el presente trabajo pretende mostrar un panorama actualizado de los factores que intervienen en la ocurrencia de accidentes de trabajo en el ramo de manufactura, siendo este, un sector con alta incidencia de accidentes registrados en el mundo. Se revisaron manuscritos publicados en Cochrane Library, Tripdatabase, Embase, Medlinevía PubMedy Cuiden. La búsqueda arrojó 10 textos, 5 de ellos corresponden a revisiones sistemáticas, dos a su vez emplean el meta-análisis, tres estudios de tipo transversal, uno observacional y un análisis de cohorte. Los factores psicosociales y ergonómicos son las exposiciones perjudiciales para la salud más frecuentes en la población trabajadora de la industria de manufactura, lo anterior a consecuencia de la demanda de actividades como el manejo de cargas, operar máquinas, herramientas y ensamble. Riesgos emergentes son descritos en relación con la creación de nuevos empleos, la globalización de mercados y la inclusión de tecnología en los centros de trabajo.

The high prevalence of occupational accidents is directly associated to work stress, night shifts, inadequate or insufficient personal protection equipment, educational level and alcohol consumption. In addition, to the risk factors which are present at work centers, such as: ergonomic, noise and handling of chemicals. All of the latter, generate a high incidence of accidents, like prevailing falls, flattening and entrapment of limbs. With all of this, the following document reflects the current factors which influence occupational accidents in the manufacturing area. Systematic review studies which were published in English and Spanish that evaluate the association of risk factors in manual labors were reviewed. As well as, published texts from the databases of the Cochrane Library, Tripdatabase, Embase, PubMed and Cuiden. Ten studies were found. Ten documents, five of which were a systematic review, two were meta-analysis, three were transsectional studies, one observational and another, a cohort analysis. The most frequent and harmful factors that injure workers are the psychosocial and ergonomic factors. The creation of new jobs, global marketing and the inclusion of new technology in the work centers are related to new emerging risk factors.

Violencia de pareja en mujeres trabajadoras de empresas maquiladoras de Nuevo Laredo, México / Intimate partner violence in women workers of maquiladoras of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico

PROPÓSITO: Identificar las prevalencias de violencia de pareja (VP) en mujeres mexicanas trabajadoras de maquiladoras, así como determinar la relación entre los indicadores de VP y características sociodemográficas (edad, horas de trabajo, número de hijos y escolaridad). METODOLOGÍA: El estudio tuvo diseño descriptivo correlacional. Mediante un muestreo no probabilístico se seleccionó una muestra de 185 trabajadoras de dos empresas maquiladoras de Nuevo Laredo, México. Se utilizó una cédula de datos sociodemográficos y las escalas HITS y CTS2. RESULTADOS: El 34.1% de las participantes fueron solteras, el 65.9% refirió tener educación básica y laboraron un promedio de 8.89 horas al día. El 49.5% refirió haber experimentado algún tipo de VP alguna vez en la vida, siendo la violencia psicológica (42.2%) la más reportada. Las prevalencias de VP fueron mayores en las participantes de 30 a 39 años de edad. Se identificaron relaciones positivas significativas entre las puntuaciones de VP con la edad (rs = .19, p ≤.01) y la violencia recibida (rs =.15, p ≤ .05). También se relacionó el número de hijos con la violencia recibida (rs= .19, p ≤ .01) y la violencia ejercida (rs = .26, p ≤ .01). CONCLUSIÓN: La VP es un problema altamente prevalente. Más de la mitad de las trabajadoras de maquiladoras han sufrido algún tipo de VP, especialmente psicológica. También se identificó que mayor edad y número de hijos se relacionaron con mayores puntajes de VP, de modo que podrían constituir factores de riesgo que ameritan más.

AIM: To identify the prevalence of intimate partner violence(VP) in Mexican women workers of maquiladoras, as well as to determine the relationship between VP indicators and socio-demographic characteristics (age, hours of work, number of children and levelof education). METHODS: The study was descriptive correlational. Through a non-probabilistic sampling method, asample of 185 female workers was selected from two maquiladora companies in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. A sociodemographic data record and the HITS and CTS2 scales were used. RESULTS: 34.1% of the participants were single, 65.9% had basic education, and worked an average of 8.89 hours per day. 49.5% reported having experienced any type of VP at some point in their lives, with psychological violence (42.2%) being the most reported. The prevalence of VP was higher in the participants from 30 to 39 years old. Significant positive relationships between VP indicators with age (rs= .19, p≤.01) andreceived violence (rs= .15, p≤ .05) were identified. There was also a significant relationship between number of children with the received violence (rs= .19, p≤ .01), and violence perpetrated against their partner (rs= .26, p≤ .01). CONCLUSION: Intimate violence is a problem withhigh prevalence. More than half of the maquiladora workers have suffered some type of VP, especially psychological. In addition, higher ageand number of children were associated with higher VP scores, so that they could constitute risk factors that warrant further investigation.

Calidad de vida relacionada con la salud y obesidad en trabajadores de manufacturas en jalisco, méxico / Health-related quality of life and obesity in manufacturing workers in jalisco, mexico

Poco se sabe sobre el impacto del sobrepeso y la obesidad en la calidad de vida (CV), casi siempre se asocia a enfermedades crónicas. El propósito del presente estudio fue evaluar los patrones de calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (CVRS) y algunos comportamientos de salud en relación con el índice de masa corporal (IMC), en una muestra de trabajadores de la industria manufacturera en Jalisco, México, que no contaban con alguna enfermedad manifiesta. Se utilizó un diseño transversal con una muestra de 392 trabajadores de la industria manufacturera, 200 (51%) proceden de industrias pequeñas, 118 (30%) de la industria mediana y 74 (19%) de la industria grande. De los 392 trabajadores encuestados, la mayoría era mujer (65.1%), soltera (72%), en su mayor parte trabajadoras de producción (91%); el decremento de la actividad física, la disminución de los componentes mentales del SF-36 y el incremento de la percepción de problemas de salud se ven relacionados con el incremento IMC, en ambos sexos, con una asociación lineal significativa en el deterioro de la función física y la percepción de salud en mujeres en contaste con los hombre. En conclusión, existen comportamientos en salud, así como un deterioro físico e incremento en la percepción de malestares de salud asociados al incremento de IMC en los trabajadores de la industria manufacturera, con diferencias significativas por género(AU)

Little is known about the impact of overweight and obesity related quality of life (Qol)), almost always associated with chronic diseases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the patterns health related quality of life (HRQoL) and some health behaviors in relation to body mass index (BMI) in a sample of manufacturing workers who did not have any overt disease. A cross-sectional study was used with a sample of 392 manufacturing workers, 200 (51%) come from small industries, 118 (30%) of the industry median and 74 (19%) of the largest industry. Of the 392 workers surveyed, most were female (65,1%), single (72%), for the most part of production workers (91%); the decrease in physical activity, decreased mental components of the SF-36 and the increase in the perception of health problems are related to increased BMI for both gender, with a significant linear association in the impaired function and perceived physical health in women told the men. Scores on the mental components of the SF-36 did not differ by BMI categories in both sexes. In conclusion, there are health behaviors and physical deterioration and increase in the perception of health ailments associated to increased BMI on workers in the manufacturing industry, with significant differences by gender(AU)

Sinos River Hydrographic Basin: urban occupation, industrialization and environmental memory / Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio dos Sinos: ocupação urbana, industrialização e memória ambiental.

This article presents an analysis of the process of industrialization and urbanization of the Sinos Valley in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, starting from the establishment of leather goods and footwear manufacturing in the region during the 19th century when tanneries and factories producing footwear and/or components for footwear began to appear, and with special attention to aspects related to the environmental impact on the Sinos river hydrographic basin. The article is based on both bibliographic and documentary research and also draws on biographical narratives of workers with links to the leather goods and footwear industry obtained using ethnographic method. It was found that contemporary environmental conflicts emerge from within a memory of work and an environmental memory in which the factories, the unplanned urbanization, and the utilization of water and other natural resources form a chain of significance. Significance that precludes any form of fragmented analysis that isolates any of these aspects from the others: the economic, socio-historic, cultural, political, or the environmental.

Resumo O artigo aborda o processo de industrialização e urbanização do Vale do Rio dos Sinos/Rio Grande do Sul/Brasil, desde a implantação da indústria coureiro-calçadista na região, no século XIX, com o surgimento dos curtumes e das fábricas de calçados e/ou componentes para calçados, destacando, em especial, os aspectos ligados ao impacto ambiental na Bacia Hidrográfica dos Sinos. Faz-se uso de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, além da exposição de narrativas biográficas de trabalhadores ligados à indústria coureiro-calçadista, obtidas por meio do método etnográfico. Verifica-se que os conflitos ambientais contemporâneos emergem do interior de uma memória do trabalho e de uma memória ambiental, nas quais a fábrica, a ocupação urbana desordenada, o uso da água e dos demais recursos naturais formam um encadeamento de sentido que impede qualquer análise fragmentada que isole um destes aspectos: o econômico, o socio-histórico, o cultural, o político, o ambiental.

Carvão fóssil / fossil coal

A história do carvão fóssil no Brasil tem início em 1795 (primeira descoberta), mas somente a partir da Segunda Guerra Mundial passa a adquirir status de indústria moderna. De 1970 em diante têm lugar trabalhos de pesquisa geológica sob bases técnicas adequadas que mudaram o panorama do conhecimento de nossos depósitos. Há oito grandes jazidas e diversas menores no Brasil, sendo que 88 por cento dos recursos estão no Rio Grande do Sul. Os parâmetros geométricos e físico-químicos são conceituados e apresentados para os principais depósitos. As reservas mundiais de carvão são cerca de quatro vezes superiores às de seus principais concorrentes: petróleo e gás natural, além de terem distribuição geográfica mais desconcentrada. O maior consumo de carvão nacional está na termoeletricidade; outros consumidores são a indústria cimenteira, petroquímica, papel e celulose, alimentos e cerâmica. A siderurgia, que já foi grande consumidora, hoje depende inteiramente de importações. O balanço de exportações/importações mostra um déficit de US$ 807 milhões, sendo o segundo produto na pauta de importações. Mais do que a insuficiência de recursos, constata-se serem as dificuldades na indústria carbonífera devidas a erros de planejamento, de caráter técnico e político, tornando-se necessário, portanto, resolver os problemas pendentes do passado antes de projetar novos empreendimentos.

Although the history of the Brazilian fossil coal started in 1975, when it first was discovered, it was only after the II World War that it began to reach the status of a modern industry. Since 1970 a proper geological exploration has improved the knowledge on coal deposits. There are eight large coal fields and several minor ones in the country, most of them (88 percent) in the Rio Grande do Sul state. The geometric and physicochemical parameters of the main deposits are defined and presented in this paper. The world coal reserves correspond to about four times those of its major concurrents: oil and natural gas, and they have a better geographical spread. Thermoelectricity uses most of the Brazilian coal; cement, petrochemical, paper and cellulose plants as well as food and ceramic industries are usual consumers. The steel manufacturing industry was an important consumer in a recent past, but nowadays it totally relies on the imported coal. Brazil's balance of trade in 1996 showed a deficit of US$ 807 million and coal is the second commodity of the country's imports. More than a lack of money, the main difficulties of the coal industry were due to a technical and political misplanning that is indispensable to correct, before projecting new enterprises.