Day 2 :
- Occupational Medicine and TherapyInfectious Disease and EpidemiologyChronic Health, Industrial Food Safety and ManagementAgricultural Health and Environmental Health & SafetyBiotechnology in Healthcare
Session Introduction
Muhammed Wasif Rashid Chaudhary
Ahalia Hospital, UAE
Title: Middle East respiratory syndrome corona virus (MERS-CoV) infection in the Middle East & UAE: Where are we today with preparedness and response 2015
Time : 09:30-09:50
Biography:
Muhammed Wasif Rashid Chaudhary is working as Assistant Medical Director at Ahalia Hospital in United Arab Emirates. He has 15 years of experience in healthcare field. He had worked also as Medical Superintendent and Quality Manager 8 years in the same health care facility. His interest is in continuous quality improvement and patient safety. He is licensed general practitioner and continuing his responsibility as a physician. He is certified professional in healthcare quality (CPHQ). That credential covers field of quality, case/care/disease/utilization and risk management and emphasizes how all these programs and processes integrate into an effective system.
Abstract:
The purpose of this report is to discuss how well the Middle East is prepared in the response and management of cases with MERS CoV and also influenza like illness in persons who have recently travelled from countries in or near the Arabian Peninsula. This presentation will discuss the most recent epidemiologic information; provide preliminary descriptions of the cases reported from the Middle East and UAE and discuss how effective the UAE and Middle East is in its preparedness, through screening, management and active surveillance. As of January 2015; World Health Organization has confirmed a total of 956 cases of MERS-CoV infection, with 351 deaths. All reported cases have been directly or indirectly linked through travel or residence to nine countries: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, Yemen, Lebanon, and Iran. In the United States, two patients tested positive for MERS-CoV in May 2014, each of whom had a history of fever and one or more respiratory symptoms after recent travel from Saudi Arabia.
T.V. Rajya Lakshmi
University of Modern Sciences, UAE
Title: Preliminary experiments in the use of salt tolerant Chlorella vulgaris and C. pyrenoidosa as biofertilizer to grow some vegetable crops in the UAE soils
Time : 09:50-10:10
Biography:
T V Rajya Lakshmi completed her PhD Degree from Andhra University and Post-doctorate from Indian Institute of Sciences, India. She has worked in different institutes- Andhra University, Indian Institute of sciences, Directorate of Rice Research, India and Shalimar Biotech Industries, Dubai. She is working as Assistant Professor in University of Modern Sciences, Dubai. She has published 15 research papers in international and national journals and 20 research papers in international symposia and conferences
Abstract:
UAE soils are about 80% sandy and highly infertile containing high amounts of salt. Only salt tolerant/resistant crops like date palm and ghaf tree grow in these salt affected soils. To expand cultivation of crops in such soils, the soils need to be enriched with chemical or organic fertilizers. Two experiments were carried with Chlorella vulgaris and C. pyrenoidosa: In experiment I the cells of both the species were cultured in different culture conditions and in experiment II the cells were used as biofertilizer to germinate and grow lettuce, cucumber, and coriander and egg-plant seedlings up to one month. The nutritional requirements and growth conditions of the two species were different: Chlorella vulgaris was heat sensitive and salt tolerant, (up to 0.1% NaCl), grew best in Chu 10 nutrient medium, while C. pyrenoidosa is salt sensitive, and heat tolerant (up to 40ºC) grew better in Bold’s basal medium, both maintained at 16h/8h light/dark photo period. When Chlorella pyrenoidosa live cells (11.8x104/ml) was used as bio-fertilizer, 97% of cucumber seeds germinated against 80% in controls while lettuce tolerated water deficit up to 7 days. Similar results were obtained in coriander when irrigated with C. vulgaris cells. One month old seedlings irrigated with either biofertilizer were with greener leaves and 1.5 to 2 time’s higher chlorophyll “a†and “b†content compared to the respective control plants among all the crops. The photosynthetic green alga Chlorella species seems to be a promising biofertilizer for these vegetable crops to be grown in the UAE soils.
Atef MK Nassar
Damanhour University, Egypt
Title: Occupational poisoning of pesticides to spray workers
Time : 10:10-10:30
Biography:
Atef Nassar (The first author) finished his B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees at Alexandria University, Egypt and the Ph.D. degree at McGill University, Canada. He is working as an assistant professor at Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Damanhour University, Egypt. He is involved in studying the adverse effects of pesticides to humans and non-target organisms. In addition, he is trying to find new alternatives to pesticides including nano-formulations of pesticides and natural products to reduce the amount of pesticides applied into the environment
Abstract:
Pesticides are the first choice to farmers to control plant insects and diseases even though they are major pollutants to human and environment. Current study was designed to assess adverse hematological effects of pesticides on occupationally exposed workers. Blood samples were collected from 48 adult males volunteers aged from 18-50 years old. Three groups; spray-workers (directly-exposed), farmers not involved in spray application (indirectly-exposed), and city inhabitants (control; unexposed). Blood samples were collected aseptically from each subject into K3EDTA tubes for the analysis using Sysmex KX21 hematology analyzer. Hematological results showed that blood samples of sprayworkers had significantly decreased platelets (PLT; 33%), ratio of large platelets (P-LCR%; 42%), average platelet volume (MPV; 70%), relative width of the distribution of platelets (PDW; 56%), relative content of the mixture of monocytes, basophils, and eosinophils (MXD; 100%) compared to control group. Also, blood samples of exposed group showed significantly decreased PLT (30%), P-LCR (40%), MPV (65%), and PDW (50) compared to villagers not exposed. Furthermore, levels of testosterone, triiodothyroxine, and thyroxine hormones of exposed spray farmers were significantly reduced compared with urban residents. Farmers involved in spray application have extreme chances to pesticide poisoning. Official regulations and enforced interventions that reduce overexposure of spray workers to pesticides are vital throughout Egypt.
Sherif Shamsia
Damanhour University, Egypt
Title: Use of Moring oliefera in the reduction of the blood cholestrol level
Time : 10:45-11:05
Biography:
Sherif M. Shamsia is an Associate professor at Damanhour University and his research interest are Food & Dairy Science and Technology, Agriculture and Plant Protection
Abstract:
People who extensively consume saturated milk fat; their blood will contain great amounts of low density lipoprotein (LDL) which will put them under the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Intake of medicinal herbs along with saturated milk fat would reduce of the development of the LDL. Therefore, current research work aimed to study the effect of adding Moringa (Moringa oliefera) to rats’ diet and monitor the formation of LDL in the form of cholesterol. Four groups of male white albino rat were used: The first group was fed normal diet, the second group was given diet with high content of saturated milk fat, the third group was fed on diet with milk saturated fat and Moringa (Drumstick tree) and the fourth group was given only Moringa mixed with the diet. Rats were housed, weighted weekly to monitor the increase in body weight, and dissected after 45 days. It was observed that internal organ weights and blood serum biochemical parameters revealed significant effect of Moringa leaf powder in the reduction of body weight compared to saturated milk fat groups. No effects were noticed on liver and cardiac parameters. Cholesterol levels of blood samples of rat groups that were fed saturated milk fat and Moringa mixed separately with their diet were significantly different. Moringa itself did not show any adverse side effects on male rats’ biochemical characteristics. We recommend the addition of powder of the leaves of Moringa tree to the rich saturated fat diet to control the development of the LDL which in turn will reduce the probability of cardiovascular diseases.
Aziza Mwisiongo
University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
Title: Tuberculosis, HIV and Silicosis – A triple burden for mine workers in South Africa
Time : 11:05-11:25
Biography:
Aziza Mwisongo completed her PhD in 2007 from the University of Copenhagen. She is currently a senior lecturer and researcher at the University of Witwatersrand. She has extensive experience in public health research in e.g. HIV, TB and with a special interest on health systems. She has also been fortunate to work in several African countries including Tanzania, South Africa, Mozambique, Ghana, Zambia and Burkina Faso. She has published per reviewed journals and book chapters.
Abstract:
Tuberculosis is most commonly spread through nasal droplets containing Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli. Miners are also categorized as “high-risk†since they are exposed to silica dust during mining operations. The prevalence of HIV and TB among miners for South Africa, has been reported to be relatively high with rates as high as 3,000 per 1, 00, 000. It is also evident that the prevalence of silica-related TB is further exacerbated by infection with HIV in low-income countries. In addition, such close contact is increased through co-worker contact, commonly known as “gang groupsâ€, who work deep within the mines. Miners operate at the nexus of several factors that increase the risk of both HIV and TB, including migration, silicosis exposure, and age. A mixed method research including both qualitative and quantitate methods was applied in order to understand the factors associated with high transmission of TB among mine workers in South Africa. The study was conducted in one prominent Gold mine in central of South Africa with an approximate 40,000 employees. The aim of the study was to undertake a rapid assessment of Tuberculosis (TB) control in order to identify and prioritize key attributable factors. Findings reveal that continued TB incidence and prevalence in the mine was multi-prone, with certain factors being strongly attributable. These factors are; delayed access for TB services; substandard TB program; suboptimal infection control and influence of HIV and Silicosis. All the four factors were interlinked with one another but were underpinned by a common context of productivity. Productivity pressures influenced; policies and management performance of the TB/HIV program; perceptions and attitudes towards TB among patients, health workers and front line managers.
Hamza M bareche
Laval University, Canada
Title: Preferential aerosolization of bacteria in the air of different composting plants
Time : 11:25-11:45
Biography:
Hamza M’Bareche, obtained his BSc in Microbiology in 2014 at Laval University, Quebec City. During his studies, he achieved a 15 week research project in Prof.Caroline Duchaine’s laboratory and he got passionate about bio-aérosols and human exposure. Currently, he is completing a master’s degree program in the Department of Microbiology within the same team. He started the project in May 2014 and he is doing a fast track to a PhD. Moreover, he is involved in two projects and he is presenting one of them at the Occupational health and Safety congress. He received a scholarship from the RSR to spend a training period of 4 Weeks in the Canadian Food Inspection agency, Ontario, Canada, to learn bioinformatics skills for the sake of his master project.
Abstract:
Bio aerosols are generally characterized as biological particles suspended in the air. Mechanical, Physical and seasonal factors affect the concentration of bio aerosols released from composting plants and thus, the exposure of workers. The morphological and biochemical differences between different microorganisms may affect their potential to be aerosolized, although this phenomenon has not been well described. From this perspective, differential aerosolization of certain pathogenic microbes found in compost deserves to be studied in order to better understand the factors involved in occupational exposure. The goal of this study was to explore, using next generation sequencing, the preferential aerosolization of microorganisms in different composting plants and see if the compost microbial population and diversity differs from that of bio aerosols. Results suggest that Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria constituted the major phyla of bacteria found in bio aerosols released from compost. There is an obvious link between microorganisms found in the air and in compost samples. However, some phyla seem enriched in the air when compared to their proportion in compost whereas; others are preferentially kept in the compost, suggesting anon-random aerosolization process. Using MiSeq Illumina sequencing technology, this study suggests the preferential aerosolization of Actinobacteria and more specifically genera like Saccharopolyspora, Mycobacterium and for some Proteobacteria such as Legionella. Some phyla are also under represented in aerosols and do not seem to be easily erosolized such as Pseudomonas sp. Exposure to preferentially aerosolized pathogenic bio aerosols may be a potential source of occupational risk and evaluation of the sources microbial content (compost) is not a good proxy of workers’ exposure to bio aerosols.
Mia Ivancic
University College of Applied Sciences in Safety, Croatia
Title: Multi billionaire GMO floral business
Time : 11:45-12:05
Biography:
Mia Ivancic, as 26 years old bacc. ing. sec is a passionate, focused, and detail-oriented professional with excellent problem solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively with others. Possesses excellent research and writing skills, as evident by publications and student awards throughout the past 5 years in scientific safety and security studies. Main base of her research work is always trying to present the essential link between the Natural Sciences and Safety in all areas and as regards the innovations through titles: UDK/UDC 005.5:614.8 - Managing And Security Inspired By Bio mimicry Models From Nature, UDK/UDC 005.5:614.8 - Physiological and behavioral inductors of security system at the stage of immediate response to a crisis situation. In addition, she is certified in a number of Applied Science and Safety areas, as well as Environmental Safety protocols. She is currently planning on doing her master’s degree at Rochester Institute of Technology Croatia Master of Science in Service Leadership and Innovation
Abstract:
GMO plant Petunia has flowers with natural anthocyanin colors: Purple and pink; psychedelic laced with white areas. It is not caused by conventional methods of breeding where we desire to improve the properties of one variety with the property characteristics and for other varieties, performing crossover and getting offspring with the chosen desired plant characteristics. It’s a real example of the creation of man (biotechnologists or genetic engineering) with artificial manipulation and transmission of genes between individuals of different unrelated species. We can therefore freely say that this is a modern version of Creationism, as the horizontal transfer of genes between different unrelated species of living organisms in Nature is impossible. These natural and impenetrable barriers have been overcome with modern scientific techniques, and romanticized possibility became a scientific fact. With futurism, moral and ethical dilemmas aside we are opening a very clear picture of the creation of GMOs through a process known as recombinant DNA technology. Restriction endonucleases are enzymes whose bacterium is used for degradation of foreign DNA. The enzyme recognizes a specific nucleotide sequence of 4 to 8 nucleotide pairs, and cleaved at that site DNA. Just type II restriction endonuclease is suitable for cloning genes, because it recognizes a fixed restriction sites - palindrome. DNA of the host cell has the same restriction sites, but they are protected by their own restriction enzymes because they are methylated. Recombinant DNA technology is based on the incorporation of the foreign gene of particular interest in the genome of a prokaryotic or eukaryotic cell. This is done with the help of plasmid or phage. The method comprises isolation of DNA from the cutting side of the desired gene with restriction enzymes and their incorporation into the vector DNA. The vector is then inserted into the host cell where it multiplies, creating numerous copies of foreign DNA. The genes by DNA that are embedded in the vector can be transcribed and translated into the desired polypeptide product. As a host cell E. coli is commonly used. The best way to introduce foreign genes into plant cells is a natural transformation system - induction with “crown-gall†tumor. Forms of the GMO Petunias were created by accident. Specifically, the researchers had intended methods of recombinant DNA technology to perform the manipulation of the gene for natural purple pigment anthocyanin on a way to get darker purple flowers. Totally unexpected genetic engineering gave us flowers laced with white areas because inserted CHS gene completely inhibited messenger RNA transcription. The mechanism of this phenomenon is still unknown. GMOs have advantages and disadvantages, but are under the ever present question: “Will the creation of GMOs belong to the class of further spontaneous Evolution or will their further Evolution be induced in the laboratoryâ€. This particularly applies to the GMO plant World, because it was “inserted†into the Environment a long time ago. In the meantime, enjoy the unnaturally beautiful GMOs Petunia flowers.
Olajumoke Morenikeji
University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Title: Helminth and bacteria co-infection among school aged children in ijoun, Yewa North Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria
Time : 12:05-12:25
Biography:
Dr. Olajumoke Morenikeji is an Senior Lecturer at University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Her area of Specialization are Parasitology/Ecology & Environmental Biology. She is a member of The Zoological Society of Nigeria (ZSN), Third World Organization for Women in Science (TWOS), British Society for Parasitology (BSP)
Abstract:
This study determined the prevalence of co-infection of intestinal helminthiasis and bacteria causing Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) among school-aged children in Ijoun, Yewa North Local Government Area, Ogun state, Nigeria. Helminth eggs were checked for in faecal samples using formol-ether sedimentation technique and ear swab was collected and cultured in the laboratory using blood and macConkey agar. All the school aged children were between 5- 19 years old (mean age 11.5±3.3 years) from primaries two to six. Out of a total of 300 participants, 108 (36%) of the subjects were infected with helminth parasites: Ascaris lumbricoides (28.7%), hookworm (6.7%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (0.7%). Differences in the prevalence of helminth infection between the sexes was not statistically significant (2 = 1.40; p> 0.05), but was statistically significant between the age groups (χ2 = 10.23; p<0.05). A total of 17(5.7%) of the study population was found to have CSOM. The bacteria isolated include: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis and Haemophilus influenzae. Some (2%) of the study population were found to be co-infected with helminth and bacteria infection. Results showed that among the co-infected children, 50% had heavy intensity of helminth infection when compared with single infected children (11.8%). So also 66.7% of the co-infected children had heavy growth of bacteria when compared with those with single infection with bacteria (27.3%). The present study showed that co-infection can increase the susceptibility to other infections.
Tanyi Peter Ayuk
Presbyterian General Hospital Kumba, Cameroon
Title: Need of biomedical waste management system in hospitals – an Emerging issue – A Review
Time : 12:25-12:45
Biography:
Tanyi Peter Ayuk (LLB) working as a Administrative Affairs Manager in Presbyterian General Hospital Kumba South West Region, Cameroon
Abstract:
Medical care is vital for our life and health, but the waste generated from medical activities represents a real problem of living nature and human world. Improper management of waste generated in health care facilities causes a direct health impact on the community, the health care workers and on the environment. Every day, relatively large amount of potentially infectious and hazardous waste are generated in the health care hospitals and facilities around the world. Indiscriminate disposal of BMW or hospital waste and exposure to such waste possess serious threat to environment and to human health that requires specific treatment and management prior to its final disposal. The present review articles deals with the basic issues as definition, categories, problems relating to biomedical waste and procedure of handling and disposal method of Biomedical Waste Management. It also intends to create awareness amongst the personnel involved in health care unit.
Lito Amit
Catholic University of Daegu, Republic of Korea
Title: Needs assessment for the occupational health risk and management of the call center industry in the Philippines
Time : 12:45-13:05
Biography:
Lito M Amit is currently a graduate student of the degree MS in Occupational Health at the Catholic University of Daegu (CUD). He has a degree in Master of Arts in Education major in Science Education.
Abstract:
As an emerging industry, several issues are being raised on the sustainability and productivity of the business process outsourcing (BPO) especially on the occupational health and safety (OHS) of call center agents. We conducted an audit of OHS programs and health concerns among call center agents in the Philippines. More than 80% of the agents affirmed that OSH program do exist in their respective company and are strictly implemented. At employment initiation, about 70% of the agents indicated that OHS orientation and emergency procedures were conducted. Majority of the agents perceived favorable and convenient working environment except for occasional noise disturbances and acoustic shock, visual and voice fatigues. Most agents can satisfactorily adjust to the demands and changes in their work environment and flexible work schedules. About 30% of agents feel pressured and humiliated by low work performance but majority perceived that they are well compensated for their job. There were minimal workplace violence incidents in call centers but about 50% of call center agents experienced higher incidence of headaches and insomnia, burn out, suppressed anger, anxiety and depressions while working in call center. Most common musculoskeletal disorders include body pain in neck, shoulders and back; and hand and wrist disorders. About 30% experienced symptoms of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders, and weakened immune systems. Overall, these findings have important implications for workers in the industry which are subjected to an array of potential occupational risk and are being compounded by the lack of comprehensive Occupational Safety and Health Standards.
Ben Leaker
University Health Network, Canada
Title: Validation of the maximum achievable angle test for performance of winter footwear on level ice surfaces
Time : 13:50-14:10
Biography:
Ben Leaker is in the 3rd year of his Under-Graduate degree in Engineering Science at University of Toronto. He is currently in the middle of a 12-month work term with Toronto Rehabilitation Institute as part of the professional employment year program at University of Toronto.
Abstract:
The Maximum Achievable Angle (MAA) test is a novel method for evaluating the slip resistance of winter footwear. It identifies the steepest icy slope a pair of footwear can walk up and down without the user slipping. This test allows the performance of footwear to be evaluated safely with real users on real ice at the challenging environment assessment laboratory, TRI-UHN. However, it was not clear whether the results of this test are indicative of performance during level walking since gait changes when walking on slopes. This study investigated the relationship between the MAA and performance on level ice surfaces. The ascending and descending MAAs of the footwear were determined on wet ice (ice at -0.1°C wetted with a uniform 1 mm layer of water) and dry ice (un-wetted ice at -3°C) by 4 participants each wearing 3 types of winter footwear. Participants were then asked to walk in an hourglass pattern (15 m circuit) as quickly as possible on level concrete, dry ice and wet ice surfaces and the difference in walking speed between concrete and each ice surface was recorded. Both tests showed no significant difference between wet and dry ice but found significant differences between the three pairs of footwear and gave the same relative ranking. A significant negative correlation was found between the change in walking speed and both ascending MAA (r=-0.71) and descending MAA (r=-0.78). These results suggest that the MAA test is a good indicator of the performance of winter footwear on level ice surfaces.
Shamsul Arfin Qasmi
Biosafety & Biosecurity level in Biomedical Laboratories in Karachi, Pakistan
Title: Survey of biosafety & biosecurity level in biomedical laboratories in Karachi
Time : 14:10-14:30
Biography:
Dr. Shamsul Arfin Qasmi is an Doctor in Karachi and works at Biosafety & Biosecurity level in Biomedical Laboratories in Karachi, Pakistan
Abstract:
Objective: This study was designed to survey the existing Bio safety & Bio security levels and the level of facilities extended to laboratory workers to keep themselves and the environment safe from any outbreak of any occupational infectious diseases. It also helped in evaluating the present level of Bio risk Management practiced in these Clinical Laboratories of Karachi, Pakistan. Place & Duration: This study encompassed and covered the 18 towns of Karachi for a period of eight months from January 2012 to August 2012. In this respect a questionnaire was also developed. This study was also instrumental in disseminating the knowledge to the target audience and increased the level of information and message with reference to Implementation of Bio risk Management in view of CWA 15793-2008 was also conveyed to the stakeholders. Materials & Methods: The sixty local laboratories were surveyed in different towns of Karachi i.e. 18 towns with various UC’s. The incidence of Bio safety and Bio security practices were noted and reported. Questionnaire developed in line with CWA 15793. Results: The 60 laboratories surveyed it was found out that the level of awareness with reference to Bio safety and Bio security is very low the reasons for which are multi factorial. It covered the gaps in Bio safety level, with reference to BSC’s, Risk assessment, Roles and responsibilities of different laboratory workers, Bio safety Manual, Bio hazard signage, use of PPE’s, Organizational charts, Bio security and Bio security. Conclusion: This study emphasizes on development of new methods and approach to spread the information to the target audience in a scientific manner to reduce the incidence of Occupational infectious diseases in the community and to save the environment also keeping abreast protocols of Biorisk Management (CWA 15793-2008).
Sonto Maputle
University of Venda, South Africa
Title: Knowledge and practices of infection control interventions amongst hospital cleaners at health care units of Capricorn district, Limpopo province
Time : 14:30-14:50
Biography:
Sonto Maputle has completed her PhD in 2004 from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. She is an advanced midwife, Professor and the Researcher at the School of Health sciences, University of Venda in South Africa. She has published more than 30 papers in reputed journals and a reviewer for reputed journals.Her interest: Cultural and traditional practices of Midwifery and Neonatal Nursing Science.
Abstract:
Health care-associated infections remain a major cause of patient morbidity and mortality. The main source of nosocomial pathogens is likely the patients’ endogenous flora and this can be attributed to cross infection via the hands of health care personnel, who have become contaminated from direct contact with the patient or indirectly by touching contaminated environmental surfaces. The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge and practices of hospital cleaners regarding infection control interventions at health care units of tertiary hospital in Limpopo Province of South Africa. The focus was on the following units: obstetric, casualty, and neonatal. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design was used. Population comprised of all hospital cleaners, working in obstetric, casualty, and neonatal units. Non-probability, convenient sampling method was used to select thirteen participants and data were collected by means of unstructured face to face interviews. Data collected from the participants were analysed using open coding method. Two themes emerged from the analyzed data; namely; infectious product with the following three sub-themes; infection control information, different colour codes as a precautionary measures and shortage of staff. Theme two addressed infection control practices by healthcare professionals with two sub-themes, namely; infection practices by nurses and infection control practices by medical practitioners. Recommendations for infection prevention and control education to be developed for hospital cleaners in collaboration with the hospital Infection Prevention and Control and Occupational Health and Safety Unit.
Rabaayah Daud
Universiti Kebangsaan, Malaysia
Title: Safety in design for a better and healthy workplace
Time : 14:50-15:10
Biography:
Rabaayah Daud has completed her MSc in Human Resource at Universiti Putra Malaysia and is pursuing PhD in Industrial Safety Management at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. She is a Deputy Director at Petroleum Division, Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Ministry of Human Resources, Malaysia. She is a Member of Malaysian Society of Occupational Safety and Health.
Abstract:
Work related illnesses or occupational diseases which caused by risks of psycho social are relatively new and growing in workplace all over the world. Many factors contribute to this emerging risk. It is indirectly link to the way work and plant is designed, organized and managed by the organization. The impact of the situation not only affects the employees but also to the social context of work. As a result, the level of stress at the workplace increase and can lead toward serious deterioration of mental and physical health. Safe workplace design is a way to prevent accident and disease from happening. It will consider hazards and risks as early as possible in the planning and design or redesign process and preparing the control measures before it arrive at workers. There were evidence showed that accident or ill health at workplace could be prevented if designer do more but unfortunately they failed to take opportunity to do so. A work related illnesses or occupational diseases are any chronic physical or mental ailments that occur as a result of work or occupational activity. It was typically identified when shown prevalent in a given body of workers than in the general population, or in other worker populations. Under the law of occupational safety and health in many jurisdictions, there was a presumption that safe and healthy workplace design will contribute to prevention of accidents, injuries, illnesses and diseases. This was indirectly enhanced by the workers of safety performance and safety and health outcome.
Edilaine C Silva Gherardi Donato
University of Sao Paulo, Brazil
Title: Association between depression and work stress among nursing professionals
Time : 15:10-15:30
Biography:
Edilaine C Silva Gherardi Donato has completed her PhD from University of Sao Paulo and Post-Doctoral studies from University of Alberta, Canada. She is designated as an Associate Professor at department of Psychiatric Nursing and Human Sciences University Of Sao Paulo -WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Research Development. She has published more than 40 papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an Editorial Board Member of repute in Brazil. Her research projects are focused on work stress and mental health promotion.
Abstract:
Introduction: Depression is directly modulated by stressors in the workplace. The work stress, defined as a result of the imbalance between the demands of professional practice and the worker’s coping ability, is associated with the wear professional which articulates negatively with the mental health of workers. Objectives: To examine the relationship between depression and work stress of nursing professionals at a university hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 310 randomly selected technicians and nursing assistants. The outcome analyzed was selfreported depression and its relationship with high levels of work stress, measured by Job Stress Scale. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression was performed. Results: The prevalence of depression in this study was 20.0%, more expressive in females aged greater than 40 years, living without a partner and among smokers. The chances of occurrence of depression were twice higher among professionals who had high levels of work stress, even after controlling in multiple regression. Conclusions: Depressive symptoms were strongly associated with high levels of stress among nursing assistants and technicians, showing a problem to be considered by the planning specific intervention programs for this population, as well as the need for better management of cases by the supervisors.
Noha Selim Mohamed Elshaer
Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, Egypt
Title: Injection and sharps safety in operating rooms at the Alexandria Main University Hospital, Egypt
Time : 15:30-15:50
Biography:
Dr. Noha Selim Mohamed Elshaer was graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Alexandria, Egypt; MBBCh degree in 2001. She obtained Master degree in Industrial Medicine and Occupational Health in 2007, and obtained MD in Industrial Medicine and Ocuupational Health in 2011. She is a lecturer at the Community Medicine Department, division of Occupational Medicine at the Alexandria Faculty of Medicine.
Abstract:
Background: Operating rooms continue to rank as one of the highest risk hospital settings for needlesticks and sharps injuries. In Egypt, and particularly in Alexandria, safety in operating rooms was not adequately studied. This study will assess the current safe injection measures adopted in operating rooms, reveal the magnitude and factors behind needlesticks and sharps injuries, evaluate post exposure management, and assess knowledge and practice of HCWs regarding injection safety, in order to plan for an effective intervention program to control such injuries. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional approach was selected, where all operating rooms (n=34) at the Alexandria Main University Hospital were observed for safe injection measures. All HCWs attending operating rooms during the field work period of the study, (n=318) were interviewed using a predesigned questionnaire based on the World Health Organization revised injection safety assessment tool and the Exposure Prevention Information Network (EPINet) needlestick and sharp injury report. HCWs were observed for safe injection practice (n=62). Results: The observed operating rooms were satisfactory as regards the infection control measures; while were unsatisfactory for the presence of loose disposable needle (14.7%) and infectious waste not in any container (50%) that were removed after each operation. Sixty percent of HCWs experienced an accidental needlestick or sharp injury with (24.6%) reported more than 5 exposures in the last 6 months. Suture needles were involved in the majority of injuries (52.3%) followed by disposable needles and scalpels (16.4%, 12.8% respectively). The circumstances leading to these injuries were mostly during handling suture needles (50.8%); improper handling of surgical instruments (17.4%) and improper disposal of sharps (8.7%). Most of injuries were among surgical staff (62.5%) followed by nursing and anesthesia staff (15.8%, 14.8% respectively). The percentage of HCWs that had a baseline test for HBV, HCV and HIV were (37.1%, 40.6% and 20.1% respectively) and postexposure follow up tests were (22%, 21% and 23% respectively). Eighty three percent of HCWs were not familiar on how to report their exposure, as well as (56%) would not contact anyone after injury. Fifty three percent of HCWs were vaccinated against HBV with 3 doses. HCWs were adherent to some safe injection practice as cleaning hands with alcohol based hand rub before preparing an injection (41.9%) and after the procedure (19.4%); using new pair of gloves (41.9%) and no needle recapping (90.3%). Conclusion: The study revealed a relatively high prevalence of needlestick and sharps injuries among HCWs. Improving reporting of exposure, and post exposure management is required. Furthermore, enhancing strict adherence to safety measures in the operating rooms is essential.
Shazia Tabassum Hakim
Jinnah University for Women, Pakistan
Title: Can cultural practices and death customs in Asia help Ebola or Ebola like viruses spread wildly: A general perspective
Time : 15:50-16:10
Biography:
Shazia Tabassum Hakim is a Microbiologist/Bacteriologist with expertise in Public health services/Research/Academics/Diagnostics/Molecular biology & Cell culture techniques. She has 19+ years of bench experience at numerous Clinical/Diagnostic & Research laboratories of Pakistan & US (particularly as Microbiologist & Serologist). She also served as Chairperson and Professor, Dean Faculty of Science & Research at Jinnah University for Women, Karachi, Pakistan. She has educational certifications and qualifications in Medical Laboratory Technology, Microbiology, Biosafety and SOTL in Microbiology.
Abstract:
Because of similar disease pattern, clinical symptoms and owing to largely sensationalist accounts of outbreaks, Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever (EHF) and Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever (MHF) are widely recognized. However, EBOV and MARV are highly pathogenic, and have traditionally been associated with devastating outbreaks with case fatality ranging from 25% to 90%. Scientists have found another virus of genus Henipaviruses named Nipah virus in countries like Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia and China naturally harboured by fruit bats (flying foxes) and some microbat species. These bats have shown presence of antibodies to something related to Ebola Zaire, and also Bangladesh has the history of outbreaks of Nipah virus every few years. Initially it was thought that Ebola Zaire was found only in Africa but evidence for this virus (antibodies) in a very faraway place in south Asia is alarming and possibilities of Ebola or some Ebola like virus could have outbreaks in Bangladesh, China or Indonesia have been questioned. According to WHO, many of the Ebola affected areas are facing extreme poverty without even running water or soap to help control the spread of disease. Other factors include belief in and reliance on traditional folk remedies, magical beliefs and cultural practices that predispose to physical contact with the deceased, especially death customs such as washing the body of the deceased. Some hospitals lack basic supplies and are understaffed (especially in ruler communities), which has increased the likelihood of staff catching the virus themselves. Poverty and these practices, both are common in Asia and hence besides technical preparedness the important need is to make the people aware of consequences related to these infections and convince them about amendments in the cultural practices especially death customs to avoid spread of these deadly infections.
Basant Shrestha
Nepal Red Cross Society, Nepal
Title: Community Based Health & First Aid (CBHFA) Project as a success model of Nepal Red Cross Public Awareness and Responsibilities regarding Health & Safety issues
Time : 16:10-16:30
Biography:
Basanta Kumar Shrestha completed Bachelor’s Degree in Management and worked experiences in NRCS form 1989 Knowledge, capacity and experienced in Community development sector like: Community health promotion, Community health and First aid as well as facilitated in many raining.Now I am working in NRCS a large humanitarian organization as project coordinator in Community Based Health & First Aid (CBHFA) Program, National Headquarter Kathmandu. PMER was my main responsibility in project. I have trained large numbers of workers and volunteers through facilitation in different trainings like: First Aid, Health & hygiene promotion, DRR. I have visited 72 district headquarter and some community of Nepal out of 75 districts. I have participated in international level training, exposer visit workshop like: CBHFA Asia Pacific Workshop on Lessons Learnt, Behaviors Change Communication and Integration 2011 Bangkok, CBHFA Regional Facilitator workshop learning by doing approach in Sir Lanka 2008, Regional Disaster Response Tem (RDRT) Training in SiriLanka 2006, study visit to Belgium Red Cross in 2005 and study visit to Bangladesh in 2004.
Abstract:
Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and established on 4th September 1963, It is Working to reduce human suffering through providing humanitarian services from district chapters, Sub Chapters and junior /Youth Circles, volunteer mobilization overall country at remote and most vulnerable communities. Nepal has a difficult geo-physical structure, limited health facilities and difficult transport and limited means of communication. Availability of health services are confined to district headquarters only as well as mode of transportation. Due to insufficient availability of health services and transportation facilities in remote community, people have faced so difficulties during the accidents, injuries and health problem. Women are high risk for accidents, injured and health problem because they are directly involved in daily work in home, farming, forest for wood. In the context of Nepal, health problems have been acute because of serious accidents and of the apparently wrong attitudes towards on hygiene, Sanitation and health. In Nepal, while thousands people died annually due to injuries or accidents and a large number of people die from inappropriate health practices .Maternal mortality ratio (per 100,000 live births), the proportion of women who deliver with the help of a skilled birth attendant (SBA) has 50%. Approximately 80% of the communicable diseases in Nepal are due to contaminated water and poor sanitation, 16 million Nepali people (57 per cent) openly defecate every day due to the lack of latrines in their homes (Source: Nepal MDG Progress Report 2010, DWSS 2010, Gov. and UNDP and CBS. According to a report, over half of Nepal’s population lacks basic knowledge of good hygiene practice. Only 37 per cent of people in Nepal wash their hands with water at critical times and just 12% use Soap. Due to big problem and improve the health and sanitation status of remote community people CHFA program activities has played vital role and worked exemplary in Nepal.
Bilal Munir Ahmed
King Edward Medical University, Pakistan
Title: Dengue epidemic, public health awareness and its impact on control: A success story from Pakistan
Time : 16:50-17:10
Biography:
Bilal Munir Ahmed did his Bachelor’s in Medical Lab Technology, Master’s in Biochemistry and MPhil in Epidemiology & Public Health. He has served the various organizations at different positions and now serving as Senior Biochemist in countries oldest and largest public sector hospital “Mayo Hospital Lahoreâ€. He has supervised various students, published research and trained healthcare workers on needle stick injury prevention and pre-analytical solutions. He has been elected as a Focal Member for Minimum Service Delivery Standards, Punjab Healthcare Commission in Mayo Hospital Clinical Labs and Committee for quality improvement in diagnostic facilities, Mayo Hospital Lahore. He is a member of national and international societies like ASM, USA, ISID, USA, EASE, UK, and COPE.
Abstract:
Dengue Fever (DF) is a mosquito borne viral infection, caused by four distinct serotypes (DENV1-4) of Dengue virus. More than 2.5 billion people in over 112 countries are now at risk. Pakistan is facing major calamity in 2nd decade of 21st century after the terrorism, earthquakes and floods. In Pakistan, Dengue Fever was first reported in 1994, 2006 and 2008 but a fulminating massive epidemic occurred in 2011 in Lahore, the capital of densely populated province Punjab. From 2009 to 2015, a total of 31,418 cases had been confirmed with overall Case Fatality Rate (CFR) of 1.2%. Year wise distribution of 31,418 cases and case fatality rate was 71(0%), 5690(0.14%), 21292(1.65%), 258(0.38%), 2661(0.67%), 1441(0.06%) and 07(0%) in year 2009, 2010, 2011,2012,2013,2014 and 2015 respectively. The gender wise distribution for male and female was 68% and 32% respectively. The exemplary Lahore model approach by adopting interprovincial and inter sectorial coordination at all levels is the key of the success. Public Health awareness remained the center of focus. Special roles were assigned to line departments for disease surveillance and vector free environment was maintained. The public representatives like members of provincial and national legislative assembly were assigned special tasks in their areas to engage the public for eradication of dengue from their environment. The public, students and civil society at large conducted dengue awareness seminars and walks in all districts and were monitored on daily basis. Fogging/Spray in all districts and transports was done and monitored. Strong political will and active participation enforced the public to kick out the dengue from their offices or residences. Dengue epidemic Control is result of public health awareness and its implementation in true spirits.