The terms secondary traumatic stress (STS), vicarious traumatization (VT), and compassion fatigue (CF) have all been used, sometimes interchangeably, to refer to the observation that those who provide clinical services to trauma survivors may themselves experience considerable emotional disruption, becoming indirect victims of the trauma.…

This guide was developed to serve as a supplement to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Electrical Safety Standards, 29 CFR 1910, Subpart S, Electrical. It is designed for use by a variety of people (layman, worker, employer, compliance safety and health officer, union official, educator, and others) in training, education,…

This report presents guidelines, based on available information, for the assessment and abatement of asbestos-containing materials in buildings. Section 1 provides background information on the history and use of asbestos-containing products in buildings, the characteristics of asbestos fibers, products and materials containing asbestos, and…

Reviews current research on the hazards of using video display terminals, such as eye strain and musculoskeletal problems. Gives recommendations for improvements in the work environment and employer policies. (SK)

Over the past 15 years, traditional concepts of working conditions and of work have been challenged in industrialized nations. The improvement of working conditions has become a basic issue, affected by the economic situation, technological advances, social climate, labor relations, and individual behavior. (Author/SK)

Discusses genetic screening in the employment context, which involves identification of individuals hypersusceptible to toxins in the work environment. Examines the status of genetic screening devices against standard testing and legal criteria. (LLL)

Discusses methods of measuring organic vapors, various compounds, and particulates in laboratory atmospheres, reviewing criteria for safe levels. Does not discuss other ways that toxic materials enter the body as through skin or by ingestion. (Author/JN)

Examines some of the methods of estimating occupational diseases and suggests that a consensus on the adequacy and reliability of estimates by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and others is not likely. (SK)

Assesses whether artists as an occupational group are more apt to die from suicide than nonartists. Analysis of data from 21 states finds that artists have a 270% higher risk of suicide than nonartists. However, after controlling for gender and sociodemographic variables, this risk level is reduced to 125%. (RJM)

Office automation has introduced new hazards to the workplace: electrical hazards related to computer wiring, musculoskeletal problems resulting from use of computer terminals and design of work stations, and environmental concerns related to ventilation, noise levels, and office machine chemicals. (SK)

The Future Workers' Education Project incorporates a lung health and safety curriculum developed by the American Lung Association into the vocational curriculum. The objective is to teach entry workers how to identify occupational lung hazards and to prevent or reduce exposure to them. (SK)

Tel Aviv University uses its associated teaching hospitals for "factory" site visits in occupational health instruction. Medical students visit various departments to observe and evaluate the work environment, later discussing health implications. The visits are well-accepted by students, save time, and contribute to awareness of the…

Discusses four keyboarding hazards that are technique related: carpal tunnel syndrome, eyestrain, fatigue, and radiation exposure. Includes technique suggestions and a plan for limiting the amount of time behind a video display terminal. (JOW)

The dysfunctions associated with artificial workgroups require attention to the social context of work. Complex issues of safety and security related to information technology may necessitate a new classification of experts, information rangers, with policing and investigative authority. (SK)

Reports results of a survey of large public libraries on incidents of muscular-skeletal injuries associated with use of computer keyboards in libraries. Personnel policies and practices that can minimize injuries are outlined. Sidebars describe the importance of adjustable workstations, steps that employees can take to minimize injuries, and…