Journal Description
Safety
Safety
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on industrial and human health safety published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), SafetyLit, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Safety Research)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 27.3 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
1.8 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
1.8 (2023)
Latest Articles
Heart Rate Variability Monitoring in Special Emergency Response Team Anaerobic-Based Tasks and Training
Safety 2024, 10(4), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10040084 - 25 Sep 2024
Abstract
The Law enforcement profession is known to impart high stress. Members of Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams are allocated particularly demanding law enforcement operations and may therefore attain high fitness levels but may accumulate excessive stress. Heart rate variability (HRV), an assessment
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The Law enforcement profession is known to impart high stress. Members of Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams are allocated particularly demanding law enforcement operations and may therefore attain high fitness levels but may accumulate excessive stress. Heart rate variability (HRV), an assessment of time differences between heartbeats, likely indicates holistic load in field settings. To date, though, little research measuring HRV has been conducted involving SWAT units. The purpose of this study was to explore HRV measurements following (1) annual firearms qualification and (2) potential stress exposure with respect to completion time on an anaerobically taxing obstacle course. Officers with greater obstacle course performance were hypothesized to also exhibit greater HRV. HRV was also expected to stratify personnel more effectively than heart rate. Prospective 3-lead ECGs were obtained from a cohort of male SWAT operators (n = 15) with 5.2 ± 4.3 years of experience at three time points throughout one training day. HRV was assessed by time, frequency, and non-linear domains. Differences between baseline and post-training values were significant as assessed by the Wilcoxon signed-ranks test for heart rate, SDRR, LF, HF, and SD2. An enter-method linear regression model predicted post-training HF HRV by obstacle course time; r2 = 0.617, F (1,6) = 9.652, p = 0.021. Anaerobic performance may be highly valuable in SWAT units. HRV analysis may also be beneficial in measuring the psychophysiological impact of SWAT activities.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Health and Safety (OHS): Emerging Trends and Future Directions)
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Open AccessArticle
Sustainability in Site Remediation: Occupational Health and Safety Assessment of Techniques for Groundwater Remediation
by
Biancamaria Pietrangeli, Roberto Lauri and Emma Incocciati
Safety 2024, 10(4), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10040083 - 24 Sep 2024
Abstract
The remediation of contaminated groundwater is a critical component of environmental management. In situ bioremediation (ISB) is a technique used to treat contaminated groundwater by promoting the activity of microorganisms, which transform harmful substances into less toxic or non-toxic forms. The present study
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The remediation of contaminated groundwater is a critical component of environmental management. In situ bioremediation (ISB) is a technique used to treat contaminated groundwater by promoting the activity of microorganisms, which transform harmful substances into less toxic or non-toxic forms. The present study investigates social issues regarding the sustainability approach applied to the remediation of contaminated sites by analyzing occupational health and safety (OH&S) impacts on workers involved in the remediation process. Occupational chemical risk is analyzed by comparing two techniques for the remediation of groundwater contaminated by chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons (CAHs): the pump-and-treat system and biological barriers. A contaminated Italian site, located near an industrial waste disposal site, was analyzed, applying a quantitative approach for chemical risk assessment. This approach is based on the use of a validated algorithm (SNPA software) and environmental measurement campaigns of chemical agents. This study (as far as the authors know) is the first research carried out in this field and shows that the adoption of bio-barriers for remediation is intrinsically safer in terms of OH&S impacts on workers.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Risk Assessment—Health and Safety)
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Safety Culture and Worker Perception in Highway Maintenance Operations: A Survey of Alabama Department of Transportation Maintenance Technicians
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Lana K. Marji, Wesley C. Zech and Jason T. Kirby
Safety 2024, 10(3), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030082 - 17 Sep 2024
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The survey entitled “Field Survey of Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) Transportation Maintenance Technicians (TMTs) Perception of Worker Safety” investigates the safety perceptions and concerns of maintenance workers within ALDOT through a multifaceted analysis approach. The findings reveal critical insights that
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The survey entitled “Field Survey of Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) Transportation Maintenance Technicians (TMTs) Perception of Worker Safety” investigates the safety perceptions and concerns of maintenance workers within ALDOT through a multifaceted analysis approach. The findings reveal critical insights that can significantly enhance ALDOT’s safety practices, training programs, and overall safety culture. Disparities in safety perceptions across different ALDOT’s areas were found, emphasizing the need for ALDOT to tailor its strategies to meet the unique needs of each area, ensuring that safety measures are both relevant and effective. The study emphasizes the importance of implementing targeted interventions focused on high-risk activities and prevalent safety concerns, allowing ALDOT to prioritize resources effectively. Additionally, the research highlights the necessity for continuous improvement by regularly evaluating safety initiatives based on feedback and best practices. This ongoing evaluation ensures that safety measures remain relevant and effective in addressing the evolving needs of TMTs. By integrating these insights into its safety management practices, ALDOT can cultivate a more proactive and resilient work environment that not only addresses immediate safety concerns but also establishes a sustainable culture of safety prioritizing employee well-being. The study provides a roadmap for future improvements in workplace safety and initiates discussions on the implications and recommendations for enhancing ALDOT’s and other transportation agencies’ safety management practices.
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Open AccessArticle
Prevalence of Lower Back Pain and Associated Workplace and Ergonomic Factors among Mineworkers in a Nickel Mine, Zimbabwe
by
Kumbirai P. Zenda, Phoka C. Rathebe, Tshepo P. Moto, Daniel M. Masekameni and Thokozani P. Mbonane
Safety 2024, 10(3), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030081 - 16 Sep 2024
Abstract
Lower back pain is a common occurrence among mine workers due to the nature of their work. Globally, workplace (occupational) and ergonomic risk factors have been reported to influence the prevalence of lower back pain among workers. This study aimed to determine ergonomic
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Lower back pain is a common occurrence among mine workers due to the nature of their work. Globally, workplace (occupational) and ergonomic risk factors have been reported to influence the prevalence of lower back pain among workers. This study aimed to determine ergonomic risk factors associated with lower back pain and associated risk factors (workplace and ergonomics) among mineworkers in a nickel mine in Zimbabwe. A cross-sectional study design was employed, and participants were randomly selected to complete a questionnaire that included the Dutch Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (DMQ). A total of 420 mine workers were interviewed, with the majority being male (n = 259, 61.7%) and aged between 31 and 44 years old (n = 159, 37.9%). The study found that the prevalence of lower back pain was 41.43% (n = 174). Several risk factors were found to be associated with lower back pain, including working overtime (AOR = 1.13, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 0.07–0.22), performing repetitive tasks (AOR = 8.06, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 4.67–13.93), bending (AOR = 7.77, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 3.97–15.22), and twisting (AOR = 3.32, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 1.83–6.03). Based on these findings, it is recommended that an ergonomic risk assessment and prevention program be implemented, which should include educational awareness about lower back pain and its prevention among mine workers.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ergonomics and Safety)
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Open AccessArticle
Physical Security Auditing for Utilities: A Guide to Resilient Substation
by
Nawaraj Kumar Mahato, Jiaxuan Yang, Junfeng Yang, Gangjun Gong and Jianhong Hao
Safety 2024, 10(3), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030080 - 13 Sep 2024
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Electric power substations, as critical components of modern power grids, are increasingly becoming targets for intentional physical attacks, including vandalism, theft, and sabotage. These threats, coupled with the potential for cyber-attacks and the weaponization of technologies, necessitate robust security measures and comprehensive auditing
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Electric power substations, as critical components of modern power grids, are increasingly becoming targets for intentional physical attacks, including vandalism, theft, and sabotage. These threats, coupled with the potential for cyber-attacks and the weaponization of technologies, necessitate robust security measures and comprehensive auditing practices. Despite utilities providers’ focus on understanding grid vulnerability and implementing physical security upgrades, there is a recognized gap in evaluating the effectiveness and long-term usability of these measures. This paper addresses the need for regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities and ensure the overall resilience of substations against evolving threats. The rationale behind this study is to propose a conventional auditing method that includes an auditing framework, checklists, inspections, and post-inspection suggestions. Through the systematic identification and addressing of vulnerabilities via security auditing, the framework aims to significantly enhance the resilience of substations against physical threats. This paper provides a comprehensive guideline for the physical security auditing procedure, which is essential for the reliable operation of the power grid.
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Open AccessReview
Digital and Virtual Technologies for Work-Related Biomechanical Risk Assessment: A Scoping Review
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Paulo C. Anacleto Filho, Ana Colim, Cristiano Jesus, Sérgio Ivan Lopes and Paula Carneiro
Safety 2024, 10(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030079 - 12 Sep 2024
Abstract
The field of ergonomics has been significantly shaped by the advent of evolving technologies linked to new industrial paradigms, often referred to as Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and, more recently, Industry 5.0 (I5.0). Consequently, several studies have reviewed the integration of advanced technologies for
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The field of ergonomics has been significantly shaped by the advent of evolving technologies linked to new industrial paradigms, often referred to as Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and, more recently, Industry 5.0 (I5.0). Consequently, several studies have reviewed the integration of advanced technologies for improved ergonomics in different industry sectors. However, studies often evaluate specific technologies, such as extended reality (XR), wearables, artificial intelligence (AI), and collaborative robot (cobot), and their advantages and problems. In this sense, there is a lack of research exploring the state of the art of I4.0 and I5.0 virtual and digital technologies in evaluating work-related biomechanical risks. Addressing this research gap, this study presents a comprehensive review of 24 commercial tools and 10 academic studies focusing on work-related biomechanical risk assessment using digital and virtual technologies. The analysis reveals that AI and digital human modelling (DHM) are the most commonly utilised technologies in commercial tools, followed by motion capture (MoCap) and virtual reality (VR). Discrepancies were found between commercial tools and academic studies. However, the study acknowledges limitations, including potential biases in sample selection and search methodology. Future research directions include enhancing transparency in commercial tool validation processes, examining the broader impact of emerging technologies on ergonomics, and considering human-centred design principles in technology integration. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of biomechanical risk assessment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ergonomics and Safety)
Open AccessArticle
Upper-Limb and Low-Back Load Analysis in Workers Performing an Actual Industrial Use-Case with and without a Dual-Arm Collaborative Robot
by
Alessio Silvetti, Tiwana Varrecchia, Giorgia Chini, Sonny Tarbouriech, Benjamin Navarro, Andrea Cherubini, Francesco Draicchio and Alberto Ranavolo
Safety 2024, 10(3), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030078 - 11 Sep 2024
Abstract
In the Industry 4.0 scenario, human–robot collaboration (HRC) plays a key role in factories to reduce costs, increase production, and help aged and/or sick workers maintain their job. The approaches of the ISO 11228 series commonly used for biomechanical risk assessments cannot be
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In the Industry 4.0 scenario, human–robot collaboration (HRC) plays a key role in factories to reduce costs, increase production, and help aged and/or sick workers maintain their job. The approaches of the ISO 11228 series commonly used for biomechanical risk assessments cannot be applied in Industry 4.0, as they do not involve interactions between workers and HRC technologies. The use of wearable sensor networks and software for biomechanical risk assessments could help us develop a more reliable idea about the effectiveness of collaborative robots (coBots) in reducing the biomechanical load for workers. The aim of the present study was to investigate some biomechanical parameters with the 3D Static Strength Prediction Program (3DSSPP) software v.7.1.3, on workers executing a practical manual material-handling task, by comparing a dual-arm coBot-assisted scenario with a no-coBot scenario. In this study, we calculated the mean and the standard deviation (SD) values from eleven participants for some 3DSSPP parameters. We considered the following parameters: the percentage of maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC), the maximum allowed static exertion time (MaxST), the low-back spine compression forces at the L4/L5 level (L4Ort), and the strength percent capable value (SPC). The advantages of introducing the coBot, according to our statistics, concerned trunk flexion (SPC from 85.8% without coBot to 95.2%; %MVC from 63.5% without coBot to 43.4%; MaxST from 33.9 s without coBot to 86.2 s), left shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 46.1% without coBot to 32.6%; MaxST from 32.7 s without coBot to 65 s), and right shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 43.9% without coBot to 30.0%; MaxST from 37.2 s without coBot to 70.7 s) in Phase 1, and right shoulder humeral rotation (%MVC from 68.4% without coBot to 7.4%; MaxST from 873.0 s without coBot to 125.2 s), right shoulder abdo-adduction (%MVC from 31.0% without coBot to 18.3%; MaxST from 60.3 s without coBot to 183.6 s), and right wrist flexion/extension rotation (%MVC from 50.2% without coBot to 3.0%; MaxST from 58.8 s without coBot to 1200.0 s) in Phase 2. Moreover, Phase 3, which consisted of another manual handling task, would be removed by using a coBot. In summary, using a coBot in this industrial scenario would reduce the biomechanical risk for workers, particularly for the trunk, both shoulders, and the right wrist. Finally, the 3DSSPP software could be an easy, fast, and costless tool for biomechanical risk assessments in an Industry 4.0 scenario where ISO 11228 series cannot be applied; it could be used by occupational medicine physicians and health and safety technicians, and could also help employers to justify a long-term investment.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Health and Safety (OHS): Emerging Trends and Future Directions)
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Fatal Consequences of Safety Non-Compliance in Non-Commercial Ultralight Aviation: A Case Study
by
Sebastian Glowinski and Slawomir Majdanik
Safety 2024, 10(3), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030077 - 4 Sep 2024
Abstract
The popularity of ultralight planes in non-commercial aviation is on the rise; however, non-compliance with regulations and the use of faulty equipment poses significant risks. This study explores the consequences of such lapses in adherence to safety standards by thoroughly examining the conditions
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The popularity of ultralight planes in non-commercial aviation is on the rise; however, non-compliance with regulations and the use of faulty equipment poses significant risks. This study explores the consequences of such lapses in adherence to safety standards by thoroughly examining the conditions leading to an ultralight plane crash, focusing on data related to causative factors. The accident involved an unregistered ultralight aircraft, lacking proper inspection and the required license. The pilot’s error during takeoff led to a stall, resulting in a fatal crash. Upon impact with the ground, the pilot’s shoulder and lap belts were torn off, leading to immediate death. This case underscores the critical importance of compliance with safety regulations in ultralight aviation. The findings illuminate the dire consequences of non-compliance with safety regulations and the utilization of unregistered, uninspected ultralight aircraft in private aviation. The tragic accident analyzed herein underscores the pivotal role of adherence to safety standards in mitigating the risks associated with ultralight planes. The pilot’s fatal error during takeoff, compounded by the absence of proper inspection and licensing, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers inherent in neglecting established safety protocols.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aviation Safety—Accident Investigation, Analysis and Prevention)
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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Occupation Health and Safety Amongst Mine Workers Exposed to Crystalline Silica Dust in a Low-Income Country: A Case Study from Lesotho
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Vuyiseka Langwana, Norman Khoza, Phoka Caiphus Rathebe, Thokozani Patrick Mbonane and Masilu Daniel Masekameni
Safety 2024, 10(3), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030076 - 27 Aug 2024
Abstract
Exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust is one of the most common and severe risks due to the associated health outcomes among workers and results in many occupational-related lung diseases, such as silicosis and lung cancer. The study aimed to determine knowledge, attitudes,
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Exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust is one of the most common and severe risks due to the associated health outcomes among workers and results in many occupational-related lung diseases, such as silicosis and lung cancer. The study aimed to determine knowledge, attitudes, and practices on occupation health and safety among mine workers exposed to crystalline silica dust in Lesotho. A descriptive retrospective cross-sectional study design was used in the study. A record review guide was used to retrieve secondary data from the Southern Africa Tuberculosis and Health Systems Support (SATBHSS) project, which were thereafter entered into STATA software, version 17 for descriptive and inferential analysis. The study participants were purposively selected. Most participants were between the ages of 31 to 40 years of age and there was a significant difference between the genders with 35 (9%) females and 350 (91%) males. The majority of the participants had a high school level of education (305, 79%). The knowledge was generally positive in the study with a knowledge score mean of 13.43 (standard deviation: 2.99). The miners agreed with most attitude statements except for A1 (25%), A2 (35%), A3 (18%), and A4 (31%). The practice of exposed mine workers in the study was influenced by working in a dolerite mine (p = 0.003), knowledge score (p ˂ 0.001), and having an attitude about health and safety rules at the mine (p ˂ 0.001; 95% CI: 0.92 to 0.79), while age was a protective factor in the study. The findings of this study highlighted positive knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward occupational health and safety among mine workers. However, more educational programs can be implemented to ensure all mine workers understand the importance of good knowledge, positive attitude, and appropriate practices towards occupational health and safety in their environment.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Exploring the Mine Environment, Safety Risk and Occupational Health)
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Open AccessEditorial
Editorial: Worldwide Accidents: Trends, Investigation and Prevention
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Muhammad Imran Rashid and Muhammad Athar
Safety 2024, 10(3), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030075 - 22 Aug 2024
Abstract
The industrial revolution aimed to ease the experience of life for human beings by reducing the manual efforts that life required and fulfilling the needs of a society with an increasing population [...]
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Open AccessArticle
Clearing the Path: Overcoming Barriers to Prevention through Design (PtD) Utilization in the US Construction Industry
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Ahmed Jalil Al-Bayati, Karim Bazzi, Ali A. Karakhan and Elin Jensen
Safety 2024, 10(3), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030074 - 20 Aug 2024
Abstract
The construction industry presents significant high risks of injury and fatality to its workforce. Adopting prevention through design (PtD) principles is reported to have high potential for mitigating such risks and improving safety outcomes. PtD seeks to assess and reduce workplace hazards during
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The construction industry presents significant high risks of injury and fatality to its workforce. Adopting prevention through design (PtD) principles is reported to have high potential for mitigating such risks and improving safety outcomes. PtD seeks to assess and reduce workplace hazards during the design phase, minimizing unsafe construction conditions. Despite its potential benefits, the construction industry encounters challenges in effectively utilizing PtD. Thus, the implementation of PtD in the US construction industry is limited, and designers’ awareness remains low. This evident lack of utilization warrants further examination of the contributing factors. The goal of this study is to identify and rank PtD utilization barriers in the United States (US) construction industry. This study pinpointed 12 pivotal barriers to PtD implementation through a systematic literature review. These barriers were categorized into industry-, project-, designer-, and client-related domains. Furthermore, they were grouped into three clusters based on their influence on PtD implementation from the most to the least influence, based on an expert matter questionnaire. This study also compared the experts’ rankings of the identified barriers with their citation frequencies in the reviewed articles. Among other observations, this study found that the lack of PtD professional training and formal education for project stakeholders negatively impacts the likelihood of PtD utilization and exacerbates several other barriers. Therefore, it is advisable to prioritize addressing this barrier by allocating the necessary resources and efforts to efficiently address it. Construction industry stakeholders with a vested interest in advancing PtD applications are encouraged to leverage the insights this study provides to expedite the adoption of PtD.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safety Performance Assessment and Management in Construction)
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Open AccessArticle
Using the MAPS-Global Audit Tool to Assess the Influence of Microscale Built-Environment Attributes Related to Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Spanish Youth
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Marta Terrón-Pérez, Javier Molina-García, Elena Santainés-Borredá, Isaac Estevan and Ana Queralt
Safety 2024, 10(3), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030073 - 14 Aug 2024
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Environmental factors have been identified as having a direct relationship with physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior. The main aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between microscale built-environment attributes and the levels of PA and sedentary behavior in young people.
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Environmental factors have been identified as having a direct relationship with physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior. The main aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between microscale built-environment attributes and the levels of PA and sedentary behavior in young people. This study included 465 adolescents (55% girls) between 14 and 18 years from Valencia, Spain. Accelerometers and self-reported questionnaires were used to measure PA, including active commuting, and sedentary behavior, and the MAPS (Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes)-Global tool was used for microscale variables. Mixed-effects regression models were used for data analysis. Higher levels of moderate-to-vigorous activity were identified when more positive elements were found in the street characteristics. Greater active commuting in the neighborhood had a positive relationship not only with more positive elements of land use and destinations but also with the overall score of the MAPS-Global tool. The sedentary levels were higher when higher levels of negative aesthetics and social characteristics were identified, and the participants were less sedentary when more bike facilities were observed. The main results of this study provide us with evidence of the relationship between the microscale variables of the built environment and both PA and sedentary behavior.
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Open AccessArticle
A Performance Evaluation Method for Long and Steep Uphill Sections of Heavy-Haul Railway Lines
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Jing He, Ao Di, Changfan Zhang and Lin Jia
Safety 2024, 10(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030072 - 5 Aug 2024
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Any system for evaluating the safety service performance of heavy-haul railway lines must effectively reflect the real-time service status of the line. The working conditions of heavy-load lines are complex and diverse, particularly on uphill sections. Existing evaluation systems struggle to accurately reflect
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Any system for evaluating the safety service performance of heavy-haul railway lines must effectively reflect the real-time service status of the line. The working conditions of heavy-load lines are complex and diverse, particularly on uphill sections. Existing evaluation systems struggle to accurately reflect the service conditions of long and steep uphill sections bearing heavy loads, posing a significant threat to the safe operation of these lines. To address this problem, we propose a new method for evaluating the safety service performance of long and steep uphill sections of heavy-haul railway lines by establishing a scoring system based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). First, damage indicators for heavy-haul lines are categorized into three groups: track geometry status indicators, track structure status indicators, and track traffic status indicators. Using data from existing heavy-haul lines and maintenance experiences, we determine a score deduction standard, classifying lines into four levels based on their safety service quality. Next, we establish a coefficient table for the service performance of long and steep uphill sections after the corresponding scores are deducted. Using data for the length and elevation grade of the actual uphill section, we adjust the deducted scores of the track structure status indicators, enhancing the evaluation system’s accuracy in describing the working conditions. Finally, we verify the stability of the entire system by conducting a sensitivity analysis of the indicator evaluation results using the One-At-a-Time (OAT) method. This method fills a critical gap in the safe operation and maintenance of heavy-haul railways and provides a safety guarantee for the operation of long uphill sections of heavy-haul railways.
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Open AccessArticle
Is Declined Cognitive Function Predictive for Fatal Accidents Involving Aging Pilots?
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Douglas D. Boyd and Alan J. Stolzer
Safety 2024, 10(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030071 - 5 Aug 2024
Abstract
Background. Civil aviation comprises airlines/charters and general aviation (GA). Currently, airlines are experiencing a pilot shortage, partly reflecting scheduled retirements mandatory for airline (but not GA) pilots aged 65 years, fueling a debate as to whether the retirement age should be increased. Herein,
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Background. Civil aviation comprises airlines/charters and general aviation (GA). Currently, airlines are experiencing a pilot shortage, partly reflecting scheduled retirements mandatory for airline (but not GA) pilots aged 65 years, fueling a debate as to whether the retirement age should be increased. Herein, using 16–40 years-of-age aviators as a reference, we determined whether GA pilots aged 60+ years (i) incurred an elevated accident rate, employing, for the first time, age-tiered flight time as a measure of risk exposure and (ii) carried an excess risk for cognitive deficiency-related fatal accidents. Methods. Airplane accidents (2002–2016) involving Class 3 medical certificated pilots were per the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) databases. Age-tiered pilot risk exposure represented a summation of flight hours per Class 3 medical applications. Cognitive decline measures were per NTSB field codes. Statistical analyses employed Chi-Square, Mann–Whitney, logistic regression, and binomial tests. Results. Using flight hours as the denominator, the fatal accident rate for older pilots (41–80 years) was unchanged compared with aviators aged 16–40 years. In the logistic regression, no cognitive deficiency measure was predictive (p = 0.11, p = 0.15) for pilots aged 61+ years who were involved in fatal accidents. Conclusion. These findings question the necessity of an automatic disqualification of air transport pilots at 65 years of age.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aviation Safety—Accident Investigation, Analysis and Prevention)
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Open AccessArticle
Finite Element Modeling for Stability Assessment of Sedimentary Rock Slopes
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Refky Adi Nata, Gaofeng Ren, Yongxiang Ge, Ardhymanto Am Tanjung, Fadhilah Muzer and Verra Syahmer
Safety 2024, 10(3), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030070 - 2 Aug 2024
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To prevent landslides, the slope is a crucial component that needs to be evaluated. Mining activities produce slopes, both natural slopes and artificial slopes, and if a slope is not designed properly, its stability will be adversely affected. The purpose of this study
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To prevent landslides, the slope is a crucial component that needs to be evaluated. Mining activities produce slopes, both natural slopes and artificial slopes, and if a slope is not designed properly, its stability will be adversely affected. The purpose of this study is to determine the stability of a slope supported by sedimentary rocks as the constituent material of the slope. Data processing is carried out using the RS2 Version 11 software and finite element methods (FEMs) by considering the value of the strength reduction factor (SRF) and maximum displacement of the slope. The results obtained for stage 1 show that a maximum displacement of 0 m was obtained, along with a critical value of SRF = 1. A maximum displacement of 0.2 m was obtained in stage 2, with a critical SRF of 1.25. In stage 3, 0.2 m was the highest attained displacement, and the critical SRF was 1.26. A maximum displacement of 0.4 m and a critical SRF of 1.31 were found in stage 4. The maximum displacement in stage 5 was 0.8 m, while the critical SRF was 1.34, and the critical SRF in stage 6 was 1.35, while the maximum displacement was 0.8 m. Finally, the maximum displacement in stage 7 was 1.6 m, while the critical SRF was 1.36. A general pattern emerged from the results of stages 1 through 7. Specifically, the maximum permitted displacement value increased with the critical value of SRF. As the slope moved, it also became more stable, with a big critical SRF. If a slope’s deformation exceeds 1.6 m, it will collapse at a safety factor of 1.36. Furthermore, the contour level showed that the factor of safety (FoS) falls between 1.4 and 4.2. Additionally, as sigma 1 and 3 increase, the resulting FoS value increases as well.
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Open AccessArticle
A New Approach to Prevent Injuries Related to Manual Handling of Carts: Correcting Resistive Forces between Floors and Wheels to Evaluate the Maximal Load Capacity
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Stephane Gille and Isabelle Clerc-Urmès
Safety 2024, 10(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030069 - 2 Aug 2024
Abstract
Test methods that use pushing forces to evaluate the maximal load capacities of carts in design standards require a flat, smooth and horizontal steel plate and thus do not take into account the real conditions of work. Resistive forces of a single wheel
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Test methods that use pushing forces to evaluate the maximal load capacities of carts in design standards require a flat, smooth and horizontal steel plate and thus do not take into account the real conditions of work. Resistive forces of a single wheel of a cart in a uniform rectilinear motion were measured using a unique test bench with five loads. Forty-four wheels were tested (varying diameters, treads and bearings) with one steel plate and four resilient floor coverings. Based on a linear mixed model, all the following results were significant (p < 0.05). Resistive forces were increased linearly with the load and depended on the characteristics of both the wheel and floor. These forces decreased as the diameter increased. They were important for wheels with sleeve bearings but decreased for cone ball bearings and precision ball bearings. Resistive forces depended on the material of the tread and were higher for solid rubber treads. In contrast, the hardness of the tread had little effect. Resistive forces strongly depended on the hardness of the base foam of resilient floor coverings: the softer the base foam, the higher the resistive forces. Test methods in design standards should be reviewed, using corrective forces based on these present results, to prevent musculoskeletal disorders.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Horizons in Occupational Health and Safety: Engineering and Management Aspects)
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Open AccessArticle
Risk Analysis of Underground Tunnel Construction with Tunnel Boring Machine by Using Fault Tree Analysis and Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process
by
Nitidetch Koohathongsumrit and Wasana Chankham
Safety 2024, 10(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030068 - 1 Aug 2024
Abstract
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Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are preferred for constructing tunnels, particularly for underground mass transit railways, because of their speed, minimal environmental impact, and increased safety. However, TBM tunneling involves unavoidable risks, necessitating careful assessment and management for successful project completion. This study presents
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Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are preferred for constructing tunnels, particularly for underground mass transit railways, because of their speed, minimal environmental impact, and increased safety. However, TBM tunneling involves unavoidable risks, necessitating careful assessment and management for successful project completion. This study presents a novel hybrid risk-analysis method for tunnel construction using TBMs. The proposed method integrates fault tree analysis (FTA) and the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (fuzzy AHP). FTA was employed to calculate the probabilities of risk occurrences, while fuzzy AHP was utilized to determine the consequences of the risks. These probability and consequence values were used to calculate continuous risk levels for more accurate risk analysis. The proposed method was applied to a real case of metro line construction. The results demonstrated that the proposed method effectively analyzes the risks, accurately reflecting decision support data. The risks were categorized based on the continuous risk levels in descending order. The most significant risk was the deterioration of the TBM. The benefits of this study provide project managers and stakeholders involved in underground construction with a new risk-analysis method that enhances work safety and facilitates the timely execution of urban tunnel construction projects.
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Open AccessArticle
Trends in Accidents Involving Healthcare Workers in the Pre-Pandemic and Pandemic Periods: Injury Notifications from an Emergency Department
by
Claudia Cipollone, Paola Guerriero, Mario Muselli, Riccardo Mastrantonio, Giada Mastrangeli, Stefano Filauri and Leila Fabiani
Safety 2024, 10(3), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030067 - 1 Aug 2024
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Occupational accidents are a serious public health issue. In this retrospective observational study, we examined all injuries involving healthcare workers of the Abruzzo Local Health Authority No. 1 (Italy) during the three years 2019–2021. Data were collected by tracing the injury reports filed
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Occupational accidents are a serious public health issue. In this retrospective observational study, we examined all injuries involving healthcare workers of the Abruzzo Local Health Authority No. 1 (Italy) during the three years 2019–2021. Data were collected by tracing the injury reports filed by the emergency service during the workers’ admission and analyzing the cause, type, distribution by sex, and geographical district to which they belonged, taking into account the period before and during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Most injuries (45.7%) were reported in the Marsica area; the most common cause was commuting accidents (10.7%). Assaults were more common among men (8.6%), while commuting accidents were more common among women (11.8%). In 36% of cases, the upper limbs were affected. The most common type of injury was contusions (22.2%). When the frequency of reports was compared between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods, there was an increase in injuries in healthcare assistants (p = 0.052), while the percentage of injuries in administrative (p = 0.056) and other categories decreased (p = 0.002). This analysis allows us to identify points of interest relating to the Marsica area, to specific types of accidents, such as aggression and commuting accidents, and to specific duties.
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Open AccessArticle
Measuring the Prevalence, Treatment, and Associated Treatment Costs of Injury for Older Adults in India: Insights from the National Longitudinal Aging Study
by
Jeetendra Yadav, Priyanka Yadav and Amy E. Peden
Safety 2024, 10(3), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030066 - 31 Jul 2024
Abstract
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This cross-sectional analysis of secondary data aimed to examine the injury prevalence, treatment, and associated healthcare expenditure among older adults in India. Longitudinal Aging Study India Wave 1 data for those aged 60+ years comprising sociodemographic characteristics and self-reported major injury, injury mechanism,
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This cross-sectional analysis of secondary data aimed to examine the injury prevalence, treatment, and associated healthcare expenditure among older adults in India. Longitudinal Aging Study India Wave 1 data for those aged 60+ years comprising sociodemographic characteristics and self-reported major injury, injury mechanism, falls and joint/bone fractures, treatment sought, and out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) were analyzed. Descriptive, relative risk, bivariate, and two-part regression model analyses were conducted. Fifteen percent of the 31,464 older adults surveyed had experienced a major injury, 13% a fall and 5% a bone/joint fracture. The risk of injury increased with age and income and was higher for urban residents and females. Seventy-eight percent of those who experienced injury sought medical treatment, 56% needing treatment for a serious fall and 3% undergoing surgery. Higher proportions of females than males required medical treatment for falls and injury-related surgery, yet on average, females were spending less than males for public or private hospital treatment. Injury-related OOPE increased with age and decreased with lower education. Scaling up injury prevention efforts specifically focused on older adults will be vital given the projected growth in the older adult population in India in coming years. Such efforts will prevent unnecessary health impacts and reduce health system utilization and associated individual and family economic burden.
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Open AccessReview
The Illusive Pipedream of Zero Harm: A South African Mining Industry Perspective
by
Oscar Rikhotso, Mesala Shabangu and Yolanda Havenga
Safety 2024, 10(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety10030065 - 26 Jul 2024
Abstract
Mining industry activities are fraught with inherent exposure to occupational health and safety hazards, often with fatal outcomes, injuries and occupational diseases. This occurs amidst the introduction of contemporary mining methods and targeted health and safety regulation. This historical study evaluated company annual
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Mining industry activities are fraught with inherent exposure to occupational health and safety hazards, often with fatal outcomes, injuries and occupational diseases. This occurs amidst the introduction of contemporary mining methods and targeted health and safety regulation. This historical study evaluated company annual reports through document analysis, on a textual level, to evaluate the extent of OHS performance reporting, a measure of the attainment status of the zero-harm aspirational goal. The reporting of OHS performance indicators in annual reports by South African mining companies is widespread, though variable in format, content and context. There were variances in the reporting of OHS indicators by the case mining companies which obfuscate attempts for intra- and inter-company comparisons of OHS performance. The case companies included have not attained the stated goal of zero harm in view of the historically reported and protracted incidences of fatalities, injuries and occupational diseases, a direct threat to the decent work principle. The status quo challenges all affected stakeholders, including regulators, employers, employees and unions alike, to continuously investigate measures for arresting the situation.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Exploring the Mine Environment, Safety Risk and Occupational Health)
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