Hazard identification and pre-map with a simple specific tool: synthesis of application experience in handicrafts in various productive sectors.

In August 2009, an international group was founded with the task of developing a "toolkit for MSD prevention" under the IEA and in collaboration with the World Health Organization.According to the ISO standard 11228 series and the new Draft ISO TR 12259 "Application document guides for the potential user", our group developed a preliminary "mapping" methodology of occupational hazards in the craft industry, supported by software (Excel®, free download on: www.epmresearch.

[Use of premapping of risks data sheet in artistic ceramics industries].

Background: In 2006 there were more than 10,000 people working in artistic ceramics industries in Italy. The jobs in these industries that attracted most attention were work at the potter's wheel and decorating.

Objectives: To test the premapping of risks data sheet in these enterprises.

[Leather bags production: organization study, general identification of hazards, biomechanical overload risk pre-evaluation using an easily applied evaluation tool].

Background: Craft industries are the backbone of the Italian manufacturing system and in this sector the leather trade plays a crucial role.

Objective And Methods: The aim of the study was to experiment with a risk pre-mapping data sheet in leather bag manufacture by analyzing the production cycle.

Results: The prevalence of biomechanical, organizational and physical factors was demonstrated in tanneries.

[Consensus Document. Update on latex exposure and use of gloves in Italian health care settings].

This consensus document was prepared by an Italian working group including occupational health professionals involved for many years in the management of glove- and latex-related problems in health care settings. The aim of this document was to address the most significant technical, epidemiological, clinical, environmental and prevention problems related to the use of gloves and latex. The group's recommendations are based on scientific evidence and practical experience but they cannot be considered as final.

[Chemical resistance of latex gloves].

Dermal chemical risk is represented by the chemicals with irritant, caustic and sensitization properties or that can produce toxic effects after penetration through the skin. During the last few years the interest for the effective protecting ability of gloves progressively is increased in parallel with their use. Penetration of chemicals through the protecting material does not always turn out visible.

How to improve skin notation. Position paper from a workshop.

The ICOH Scientific Committee on Occupational and Environmental Dermatoses organized an International Workshop on "Dermal risk assessment at workplace" with the aim of focussing on the different ways of approaching the concept of skin notation (S) for chemicals. The Workshop participants presented their ideas on several aspects of S such as the problems related to the absorption through the compromised skin, the different approaches to S and models that can be used as alternatives to S. Participants agreed to produce a position paper with the goal of exploring the actions needed to improve the S system towards international harmonization.