Table of Contents
GIPMEL 2024;4(1):1-5
Commentary in Occupational Health and Laws
The changing work environment and the new tables of occupational diseases in Italy
Il lavoro che cambia e la nuova tabella delle malattie professionali in Italia
Authors: Angelo SACCO1
1 Scuola di Specializzazione in Medicina del Lavoro, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia. U.O.C. Servizio Prevenzione e Sicurezza Ambienti di Lavoro, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia, Italia. E-mail: angelo.sacco.@alice.it ORCID: 0000-0002-8429-5314.
* Author for the correspondence
Abstract
Fifteen years after the last update, the Ministry of Labor and Social Policies, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health, has released the new tables of occupational diseases in Italy with the decree of October 10, 2023. This commentary examines the modifications made, highlighting the update in knowledge related to work-related pathologies and adaptation to recent labor dynamics. It explores the attempt to simplify and make the tables more effective for use in the social insurance context and
the management of occupational diseases in industry and agriculture.
Riassunto
Dopo quindici anni dall’ultimo aggiornamento, in Italia, il Ministero del Lavoro e delle Politiche Sociali, in collaborazione con il Ministero della Salute, ha rilasciato le nuove tabelle delle malattie professionali con il Decreto interministeriale del 10 ottobre 2023. Questo articolo analizza le modifiche apportate, mettendo in luce l’aggiornamento delle conoscenze relative alle patologie da lavoro e l’adeguamento alle recenti dinamiche lavorative. Si esamina il tentativo di semplificare e rendere più efficaci le tabelle per il loro utilizzo nel contesto assicurativo sociale e la gestione delle malattie professionali nell’industria e nell’agricoltura.
Parole chiave: aggiornamento normativo; Italia; malattie professionali; malattie professionali; prevenzione; salute e sicurezza sul lavoro.
Keywords: health and safety at work; Italy; prevention measures; occupational diseases; work-related diseases.
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GIPMEL 2024;4(1):6-11
Viewpoint in Radioprotection and Occupational Health
Radon e sorveglianza sanitaria negli ambienti di lavoro: criticità normative in Italia (D.Lgs. 101/2020) e prospettive future
Radon and health surveillance in the workplace: Regulatory challenges in Italy (Legislative Decree no. 101/2020) and future perspectives
Authors: Francesco CHIRICO1,*, Giuseppe TAINO2, Marco MICHELAZZI3, Fabrizio CIPRANI4, Angelo SACCO5
1 Scuola di Specializzazione in Medicina del Lavoro, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia. Centro Sanitario Polifunzionale di Milano, Servizio Sanitario della Polizia di Stato, Ministero dell’Interno, Italia. ORCID: 0000-0002- 8737-4368.
2 IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Pavia – Scuola di Specializzazione in Medicina del Lavoro, Università di Pavia – AIRM (Associazione Italiana di Radioprotezione Medica) ORCID: 0000-0002-8995-100X.
3 Direzione Centrale di Sanità, Servizio Sanitario della Polizia di Stato, Roma, Italia. E-mail: marco.michelazzi@poliziadistato.it.
4 Direzione Centrale di Sanità, Servizio Sanitario della Polizia di Stato, Roma, Italia. E-mail: fabrizio.ciprani@poliziadistato.it.
5 U.O.C. Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza Ambienti di Lavoro, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia (Roma), Italia. E-mail: angelo.sacco.@alice.it ORCID: 0000-0002-8429-5314
* Author for the correspondence
Abstract
This commentary examines the regulatory changes introduced by Legislative Decree 101/2020 regarding the management of radon risk in work environments, with a particular focus on the role of health surveillance. Compared to the previous legislation (Legislative Decree 230/1995 and 241/2000), Legislative Decree 101/2020 marks a significant shift, introducing corrective measures and technical reports by radiation protection experts but excluding mandatory health surveillance. The article discusses the implications of this exclusion, highlighting how such an omission could compromise the protection of the health of workers exposed to radon, especially considering the insidious and long-term nature of its effects. It suggests revising the legislation to include a more holistic and preventive approach to radon risk management.
Riassunto
Questo commentario analizza le modifiche normative introdotte dal Decreto Legislativo 101/2020 relativamente alla gestione del rischio radon negli ambienti di lavoro, con un focus particolare sul ruolo della sorveglianza sanitaria. Rispetto alla precedente normativa (D.Lgs. 230/1995 e 241/2000), il D.Lgs. 101/2020 segna un notevole cambiamento, introducendo misure correttive e report tecnici da parte di esperti in radioprotezione, ma escludendo la sorveglianza sanitaria. L’articolo discute le implicazioni di questa esclusione, evidenziando come tale lacuna possa compromettere la protezione della salute dei lavoratori esposti al radon, specialmente considerando la natura insidiosa e a lungo termine dei suoi effetti. Si enfatizza l’importanza di rivedere la normativa per includere un approccio più olistico e preventivo alla gestione del rischio radon.
Parole chiave: Ambiente di lavoro; gestione del rischio; normativa italiana; radon; radioprotezione; sorveglianza Sanitaria.
Keywords: Italian regulatory; radon; radioprotection; risk management; occupational health surveillance; workplaces.
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GIPMEL 2024;4(1):12-26
Review in Occupational Health
Key performance indicators in occupational health and safety of hospitals: A scoping review with meta-analysis
Authors: Georgios I. FARANTOS1,*, Georgios DOUNIAS2
1 PostDoc & External Teaching Partner, Department of Public Health Policies, University of West Attica, Address: 196 Alexandras Ave.115 21 Athens, Greece, Personal Address: Mainalou 50-52, SA 2213, Tripoli, Arkadia, Greece. E-mail: grfrinark@gmail.com. ORCID: 0000-0002-4556-5350.
2 Professor, Department of Public Health Policies, University of West Attica, Address: 196 Alexandras Ave.115 21 Athens, Greece. E-mail: gdounias@uniwa.com.
* Corresponding Author
Abstract
Introduction: This study aimed to synthesize and map what was reported in the international literature on the relationship between Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and hospital Occupational Health and Safety (OHS).
Methods: For this scoping review, PubMed, Medline, and Scopus were searched. We did separate random-effects meta-analyses for institutional outcomes using the KNIME software.
Results: Of the identified 6,698 records, 10 were eligible, and data were available for 10, all with a low to moderate risk of overall bias. A particularly low correlation between Protective and Preventive Services (PPS) and KPI studies in hospital OHS was demonstrated. For the correlation KPI score – Occupational Physician (OP) score, KPI score – Risk Assessment (RA) score, and OP score – RA score, the values are 0.999, 0.595, and 0.408, while the p-values are 0.0185, 0.778, and 0.893, respectively. Data analysis found that studies of KPIs in OHS in hospitals did not sufficiently consider the institutional representations of PPS, safety technician (ST), OP, Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS), and RA and how they interact with the planning and implementation processes of the KPIs.
Discussion and Conclusions: This study found through data analysis that studies of KPIs in OHS in hospitals did not adequately consider PPS, ST, OP, OHSMS, and RA and how these elements interact with planning and implementing these KPIs. The contribution to knowledge in this research filled this gap identified in the literature.
Keywords: Key Performance Indicators; occupational health and safety; occupational health and safety management systems; risk assessment.
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GIPMEL 2024;4(1):27-40
Original Article in Occupational Health Psychology
The effect of a Mindfulness-based stress reduction program on the mental health of a sample of Italian healthcare professionals: A quasi-experimental study design
Authors: Martina FINISTRELLA1,*, Elisa LUCHINA2
1 Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco – Milan- Italy. Email: martina.finistrella@asst-fbf-sacco.it ORCID: 0009-0009-9641-5123
2 Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco – Milan- Italy. Email:e2.luchina@gmail.com
* Corresponding Author
Abstract
Introduction: Healthcare workers (HCWs) are commonly exposed to work-related stress, potentially leading to burnout syndrome. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is recognized for its potential to alleviate distress, reduce emotional exhaustion, and enhance attention to the present moment. This study evaluates the effectiveness of MBSR in improving stress management and emotional regulation among healthcare workers.
Methods: This study involved 43 hospital employees from Milan, who participated in a structured 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. Each session lasted 2 hours per week. At the beginning of the study, we collected socio-demographic data along with baseline responses to the following comprehensive questionnaires: the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IERQ), the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). Post-intervention assessments were completed by 28 of the participants.
Results: The participant demographic included 37.2% nurses, 27.9% doctors, and 34.9% other health professions. Notable improvements were observed in the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) scores, which increased by 8.37 (p = 0.027), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) scores, which decreased by 4.55 (p = 0.011) post-intervention. Changes were less significant in the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IERQ) with an increase of 0.69 (p = 0.553), the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) with a marginal improvement of 0.11 (p = 0.788), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) with a decrease of 1.67 (p = 0.533), and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) with a decrease of 1.26 (p = 0.712) scores.
Discussion and Conclusion: The findings confirm the effectiveness of the MBSR program in significantly improving mindfulness and reducing stress among healthcare professionals. However, changes in emotional regulation and burnout were less pronounced, suggesting the need for further research in these areas.
Keywords: burnout; mindfulness-stress reduction program; occupational stress.
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GIPMEL 2024;4(1):41-56
Narrative Review in Occupational Health Psychology
Technostress and work: Models, impact, and prevention strategies
Tecnostress e lavoro: modelli, impatto e strategie di prevenzione
Francesco CHIRICO1, Amelia RIZZO2*, Alessandro DE CARLO2, Guendalina TORDONATO2, Angelo SACCO3, Gabriele GIORGI4
1Scuola di Specializzazione in Medicina del Lavoro, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia. Dipartimento del Servizio Sanitario, Polizia di Stato Italiana, Ministero dell’Interno, Milano, Italia. Email: francesco.chirico@unicatt.it. ORCID: 0000-0002-8737-4368.
2Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Messina, Messina, Italia. Email: amrizzo@unime.it. ORCID: 0000-0002-6229-6463 (A.R.). Email: alessandro.decarlo@unime.it (A.D.C.). Email: t.guenda@outlook.it (G.T.)
3Scuola di Specializzazione in Medicina del Lavoro, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia. U.O.C. Spresal, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia, Italia. ORCID: 0000-0002-8429-5314. Email: angelo.saccoe@alice.it
4Dipartimento di Scienze Umane, Università Europea di Roma, 00163 Roma, Italia. Email: gabriele.giorgi@unier.it ORCID: 0000-0002-7340-356X
*Corresponding Author
Abstract
Technostress, which emerged as a concern in 1984, represents the stress derived from adapting to ICTinnovations. This form of stress, which intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, is particularlyprevalent among healthcare workers and those engaged in remote work. The consequences oftechnostress range from a decline in work efficiency to an increase in absenteeism. Moreover, there are collateral effects on the mental and physical health of workers, with potential risks of burnout and related disorders. This article explores the origins, manifestations, and impacts of technostress, emphasizing the importance of preventive strategies, training, and psychological support to ensure the well-being of workers in the digital age.
Riassunto
Il tecnostress, emerso come preoccupazione nel 1984, è definito come lo stress derivante dall’adattamento alle Tecnologie della Innnovazione e della Comunicazione (ICT). Questa forma di stress, intensificatasi durante la pandemia COVID-19, è particolarmente frequente tra i lavoratori sanitari e tra coloro che operano in smart working. Le conseguenze del tecnostress spaziano dal declino dell’efficienza lavorativa all’aumento dell’assenteismo. Oltre a ciò, si registrano effetti collaterali sulla salute mentale e fisica dei lavoratori, con possibili rischi di burnout e disturbi correlati. Questo articolo esplora le origini, le manifestazioni e gli impatti del tecnostress, sottolineando l’importanza di strategie preventive, formative e di supporto psicologico per garantire il benessere dei lavoratori nell’era digitale.
Parole chiave: Lavoro; home working; ICT; telelavoro; tecnostress; rischio psico-sociale
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GIPMEL 2024;4(1): 57-88
Original Article in Occupational Medicine and Traffic Health
Vision and fitness to drive in Italy: A review of the literature and a protocol for the
medico-legal evaluation
Patologie oculo-visive e idoneità alla guida in Italia: una revisione della letteratura e delle normative con una proposta di protocollo sanitario in ambito medico-legale
Francesco CHIRICO1*, Alessandro CIPRANI2, Angelo SACCO3, Gianluigi OGGIONNI4, Giuseppe TAINO5, Francesco ZAGARIELLO6, Francesca SOLAZZO7, Amelia RIZZO8 , NICOLA MAGNAVITA9
1Scuola di Specializzazione in Medicina del Lavoro, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italia. Centro Sanitario Polifunzionale Nord- Servizio Sanitario della Polizia di Stato- Ministero dell’Interno. E-Mail: francesco.chirico@unicatt.it. medlavchirico@gmail.com ORCID: 0000-0002-8737-4368.
2Centro Sanitario Polifunzionale Nord- Servizio Sanitario della Polizia di Stato-Ministero dell’Interno. Email: ciprani.alessandro@gmail.com
3U.O.C. Servizio di Prevenzione e Sicurezza Ambienti di Lavoro, ASL Roma 4, Civitavecchia (Roma), Italia. E-mail: angelo.sacco.@alice.it ORCID: 0000-0002-8429-5314
4Centro Sanitario Polifunzionale Nord- Servizio Sanitario della Polizia di Stato- Ministero dell’Interno. Email: gianluigi.oggionni@gmail.com ORCID: 0009-0007-5108-2594.
5IRCCS S. Maugeri”, Foundation-Pavia-Unit Hospital of Occupational Medicine (UOOML), Pavia, Italy. E-mail: giuseppe.taino@unipv.it. ORCID: 0000-0002-8995-100X.
6Servizio di Medicina del Lavoro, Infermeria Presidiaria di Modena, Esercito Italiano. Modena, Italia. SIMCE (Società Italiana Medici Certificatori). Email; francescozagariello@yahoo.it.
7Scuola di Specializzazione in Medicina del Lavoro, Università di Pavia, Italia. Email: francesca.solazzo01@universitadipavia.it
8Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy. E-mail: amrizzo@unime.it. ORCID: 0000-0002-6229-6463.9Post-graduate School of Occupational Health, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy. St. John the Baptist Hospital, Association of the Italian Knights of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (ACISMOM), Roma, Italy. Email: nicolamagnavita@gmail.com. ORCID: 0000- 0002-0988-7344.
*Corresponding Author
Abstract
In Italy, there are currently no government-issued guidelines or legislative protocols regarding progressive ocular-visual pathologies that could permanently disqualify a person from driving or require specific limitations. This issue leads to an unavoidable and excessive discretion in the procedures adopted and the resulting medico-legal evaluations, which often lack scientific evidence, thus undermining the primary purpose of medical examinations as a preventive measure for road safety. The aim of this work is to propose, based on current Italian regulations and relevant scientific literature, a health protocol designed for the competent health authority to assess driving fitness based on the applicant’s ocular-visual conditions.
Riassunto
In Italia non esistono allo stato attuale linee guida emanate a livello governativo né protocolli o indicazioni da parte del Legislatore sulle patologie oculo-visive progressive che possono rappresentare una causa permanente di non idoneità alla guida o che richiedano particolari limitazioni. Tale criticità comporta un’inevitabile ed eccessiva discrezionalità nelle procedure adottate e nelle risultanti valutazioni medico-legali, che spesso risultano prive di evidenza scientifica, vanificando così lo scopo principale delle visite mediche, quale misura di prevenzione sanitaria degli incidenti stradali. L’obiettivo di questo lavoro è quello di proporre sulla base della normativa vigente in Italia e della letteratura scientifica di riferimento, un protocollo sanitario finalizzato alla formulazione, da parte dell’autorità sanitaria competente, del giudizio di idoneità alla guida, sulla base delle condizioni oculo-visive del richiedente.
Keywords: Fitness for driving; guidelines; law; legal medicine; traffic medicine.
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GIPMEL 2024;4(1): 89-91
Book Review in Occupational Health Psychology
“Smart Working: Salute e Sicurezza dei lavoratori” by Francesco Chirico and Angelo Sacco: A Book review
Recensione del libro “Smart Working: Salute e Sicurezza dei lavoratori” di Francesco Chirico e Angelo Sacco
Authors: Pietro CRESCENZO1*
1Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology and Communication, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italia. E-mail: pietro.crescenzo@uniba.it. ORCID: 0000-0001-5240-315
*Corresponding Author
Abstract
Fifteen years after the last update, the Ministry of Labor and Social Policies, in conjunction with the Ministry of Health, has released the new tables of occupational diseases in Italy with the decree of October 10, 2023. This commentary examines the modifications made, highlighting the update in knowledge related to work-related pathologies and adaptation to recent labor dynamics. It explores the attempt to simplify and make the tables more effective for use in the social insurance context and
the management of occupational diseases in industry and agriculture.
Riassunto
Dopo quindici anni dall’ultimo aggiornamento, in Italia, il Ministero del Lavoro e delle Politiche Sociali, in collaborazione con il Ministero della Salute, ha rilasciato le nuove tabelle delle malattie professionali con il Decreto interministeriale del 10 ottobre 2023. Questo articolo analizza le modifiche apportate, mettendo in luce l’aggiornamento delle conoscenze relative alle patologie da lavoro e l’adeguamento alle recenti dinamiche lavorative. Si esamina il tentativo di semplificare e rendere più efficaci le tabelle per il loro utilizzo nel contesto assicurativo sociale e la gestione delle malattie professionali nell’industria e nell’agricoltura.
Parole chiave: book review; medicina del lavoro; lavoro agile; smart working; telelavoro.
Keywords: Agile work; book review; smart working; occupational health; teleworking.
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