[Health and safety risks in seaport work: update of the narrative literature review]
Abstract
Seaports are complex systems in which workers can be exposed to a large variety of safety and health risks. Nevertheless, a little literature is available concerning this topic, if we exclude the specific area of shipbuilding industry.
Objectives. The aim of this paper is to update the review of the scientific literature previously published as result of a project concerning the occupational risks in seaports.
Methods. Literature on this theme, obtained consulting the main databases (PubMed, Scholar and CCOHS) from 2012 and up to April 2019, was reviewed.
Results. Five of eight articles published after 2012 were related to risk of release or formation of volatile compounds in restricted and poorly ventilated areas or inhalation of particles from specific goods. Three papers specifically debated musculoskeletal disorders related to loading unloading procedures, occupational diseases and injuries.
Conclusions. The update of the literature highlighted intrinsically dangerous goods, toxic volatile compounds and emissions as critical aspects of seaport activities related to goods handling. Recently, the literature shows a growing interest in occupational health, especially work-related musculoskeletal diseases. Prevention measures and implementation of worker's training and information are identified by all authors as the more effective action to increase health and safety.
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