Suchergebnisse

OBJECTIVES: The specific objectives of the 2017 Understanding Small Enterprises Conference were to: 1) identify successful strategies for overcoming occupational safety and health barriers in small and medium-sized enterprises; 2) disseminate best practices to research and business communities; 3) build collaborations between different stakeholders including researchers, insurers, small enterprises, government agencies; and 4) better inform occupational safety and health research relevant to small and medium-sized enterprises. METHODS: A two and a half day international conference was organized, building upon three previously successful iterations. This conference brought together researchers, practitioners, and other stakeholders from 16 countries to share best-practices and emerging strategies for improving occupational safety and health in small and medium-sized enterprises. FINDINGS: Cross-cutting themes that emerged at the conference centered around: 1) stakeholder and intermediary involvement; 2) what occupational health and safety looks like across different industries; 3) intervention programs (tools and resources); 4) precarious and vulnerable work and the informal sector; and 5) Total Worker Health(®) in small and medium-sized enterprises. CONCLUSION: A number of innovative initiatives were shared at the conference. Researchers must build collaborations involving a variety of stakeholder groups to ensure that occupational safety and health solutions are successful in small and medium-sized enterprises. Future occupational safety and health research should continue to build upon the successful work of the 2017 Understanding Small Enterprises Conference.

The development of natural gas wells is rapidly increasing, yet little is known about associated exposures and potential public health consequences. We used health impact assessment (HIA) to provide decision-makers with information to promote public health at a time of rapid decision making for natural gas development. We have reported that natural gas development may expose local residents to air and water contamination, industrial noise and traffic, and community changes. We have provided more than 90 recommendations for preventing or decreasing health impacts associated with these exposures. We also have reflected on the lessons learned from conducting an HIA in a politically charged environment. Finally, we have demonstrated that despite the challenges, HIA can successfully enhance public health policymaking.

OBJECTIVE: Establishment of core competencies for education and training of professionals entering the emerging field of Total Worker Health®. METHODS: Compilation and distillation of information obtained over a 5-year period from Total Worker Health symposia, workshops, and academic offerings, plus contributions from key stakeholders regarding education and training needs. RESULTS: A proposed set of Total Worker Health competencies aligns under six broad domains: Subject Matter Expertize; Advocacy and Engagement; Program Planning, Implementation and Evaluation; Communications and Dissemination; Leadership and Management; and Partnership Building and Coordination. CONCLUSIONS: Proposed set of core competencies will help standardize education and training for professionals being trained in Total Worker Health. It serves as an invitation for further input from stakeholders in academia, business, labor, and government.