Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Jong Tae Park

16 Articles

An Assessment of the Needs and the Affecting Factors for Small Scale Enterprise Worker's Health Centers: Ki Chul Nam, Ji Su Park, Jae Woo Koh, Jong Seo Kim, Jong Tae Park, Hae Joon Kim, Jin Joo Chung, Jeong Youn Kim, Dae Sung Kim, Jung Sun Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2011;23(4):407-419. Published online December 31, 2011; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2011.23.4.407

OBJECTIVES
The aim of this paper is to assess the needs and roles of the Worker's Health Centers employed by small scale enterprises by investigating the requested services made to this type of Worker's Health Center.
METHODS
The population of this research was taken from 1,145 business owners or managers of manufacturing companies employing less than fifty people in six industrial estates. Stratified sampling was used. Individual interviews were performed to assess the conditions and needs of these enterprises using a structured questionnaire and professional interviewers.
RESULTS
According to the questionnaire survey, 941(82.2%) of the enterprises wish to use a Worker's Health Center. 946(83.3%) of the enterprises preferred an 'Expert visit to the enterprise or mixed' for the Delivery type. 486(42.4%) of the enterprises preferred the 'in the center of industrial complex' for the location of the Worker's Health Center. 789(69.1%) of the enterprises preferred 6-10 PM for the available open hours. A multiple regression analysis revealed a significantly positive association regarding the intention of using a Worker's Health Center and the Gyeonggi-Banwol (OR 2.49) or Gwangju-Hanam(OR 4.24) for the region. Compared to enterprises employing 1-4 worker, 30-49 worker enterprises show a 3.33 fold preference (95% CI 1.80~6.12) for the use of a Worker's Health Center.
CONCLUSIONS
Generally, the intention regarding the use of a Worker's Health Center was high, Considering the time and spatial limits inherentin small scale enterprises, the 'expert visit to the enterprise' paradigm is important. It should be noted that when providing the service, a customized approach is necessary, determined by size, region, industry, and scale of the business, through the assessment of the small scale enterprises and the nature of the work environment when designing a Worker's Health Center operation.

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Use of video-based telehealth services using a mobile app for workers in underserved areas during the COVID-19 pandemic: A prospective observational study
Hyun Sang Park, Sungmoon Jeong, Ho-young Chung, Jae Young Soh, Young Ho Hyun, Seong Hwan Bang, Hwa Sun Kim
International Journal of Medical Informatics.2022; 166: 104844. CrossRef
Factors Influencing Acceptance of Personal Health Record Apps for Workplace Health Promotion: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study
Hyun Sang Park, Kwang Il Kim, Jae Young Soh, Young Ho Hyun, Sae Kyun Jang, Sol Lee, Ga Young Hwang, Hwa Sun Kim
JMIR mHealth and uHealth.2020; 8(6): e16723. CrossRef
Development and Operation of a Video Teleconsultation System Using Integrated Medical Equipment Gateway: a National Project for Workers in Underserved Areas
Hyun Sang Park, Kwang il Kim, Jae Young Soh, Young Ho Hyun, Bang Eun Lee, Jong Hwa Lee, Jung Gwon Jo, Han Chae Lee, Hwa Sun Kim
Journal of Medical Systems.2020;[Epub] CrossRef
Effects of health and safety problem recognition on small business facility investment
Jisu Park, Harin Jeong, Sujin Hong, Jong-Tae Park, Dae-Sung Kim, Jongseo Kim, Hae-Joon Kim
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2013;[Epub] CrossRef

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Estimated Number of Korean Workers with Back Pain and Population-based Associated Factors of Back Pain: Data from the Fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: Ki Chul Nam, Soon Woo Jang, Hyung Joon Jhun, Jong Tae Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2009;21(4):365-377. Published online December 31, 2009; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2009.21.4.365

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
We estimated the number of Korean workers with back pain and evaluated the populationbased factors associated with back pain from a representative sample.
METHODS
The number of Korean workers who experienced back pain (back pain-experienced patients), those who had experienced back pain lasting for three or more months during the previous year (chronic patients), and those who were currently suffering from back pain (current patients) were estimated by analyzing the data from the fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in 2007 using the surveyfreq procedure of the SAS statistical package. Population-based odds ratios for being back pain-experienced, chronic, and current patient according to demographic (age, gender, and education), lifestyle (smoking, drinking, and exercise), and occupational (industrial class, employment status, occupation) factors were estimated using the surveylogistic procedure.
RESULTS
Among 19,076,186 Korean workers aged 20~69 years in 2007, 2,473,997(proportion, 13.0%; 95% CI, 1,976,779~2,971,216) were estimated to be back pain-experienced patients, 692,046(3.6%; 417,726~966,366) chronic patients, and 1,206,704(6.3%; 893,475~1,519,933) current patients. Each of the explanatory variables was significantly associated with at least one of the response variables for back pain.
CONCLUSIONS
Further efforts to investigate the epidemiology of back pain, evaluate the associated factors, and improve treatment outcomes are needed.

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Nationwide firefighter survey: the prevalence of lower back pain and its related psychological factors among Korean firefighters
Min Gi Kim, Ju-il Seo, KyooSang Kim, Yeon-Soon Ahn
International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics.2017; 23(4): 447. CrossRef
Retraction Notice to: "Association between Job Stress and Alexithymic Traits" [Korean J Occup Environ Med 20(4) (2008) 295-301] and "Estimated Number of Korean Workers with Back Pain and Population-based Associated Factors of Back Pain: Data from the Four

Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2011; 23(3): 350. CrossRef

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A Case of Occupational Asthma and Rhinitis Suspected to be Caused by Exposure to Ethyl Cyanoacrylate: Soon Woo Jang, Ki Chul Nam, Hyung Joon Jhun, Byoung Gwon Kim, Jong Tae Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2009;21(3):283-288. Published online September 30, 2009; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2009.21.3.283

Abstract PDF: BACKGROUND
Ethyl cyanoacrylate is used as a component of adhesives used in the industrial, domestic, and medical fields. It is known to cause mucosal irritation, contact dermatitis and respiratory discomfort. However, reports of combined occupational asthma and rhinitis are rare, especially in Korea. We report a case of occupational asthma and rhinitis suspected to be caused by exposure to ethyl cyanoacrylate.
CASE
REPORT: A 36-year-old woman presented with rhinorrhea, cough, dyspnea and chest discomfort after exposure to ethyl cyanoacrylate adhesive at an assembly area of a plastic products manufacturing company. Nasal endoscopy revealed watery rhinorrhea and hypertrophy of nasal turbinates, which were compatible with rhinitis. The methacholine provocation test showed a positive result. Daily variability of peak expiratory flow increased on work days, but decreased during non-work days. Based on these findings, we diagnosed this case as a combination of occupational asthma and rhinitis suspected to be caused by exposure to ethyl cyanoacrylate.
CONCLUSION
There needs to be increased awareness regarding occupational asth-ma and rhinitis caused by exposure to ethyl cyanoacrylate.

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Association between Job Stress and Alexithymic Traits: Seong Jin Ryu, Ja Hyun Kim, Soon Woo Jang, Hyung Joon Jhun, Byoung Gwon Kim, Jong Tae Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(4):295-301. Published online December 31, 2008; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.4.295

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
We evaluated the association between job stress and alexithymic traits in Korean workers.
METHODS
Workers (n=521) who visited two university hospitals for medical check-ups were recruited for this study. Job stress was evaluated using the Korean version of Karasek's Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ), and alexithymic traits were assessed using the Korean version of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20K). Crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of job stress scales (job strain, job insecurity, and job dissatisfaction) with alexithymic traits(total TAS score > or =52) were calculated.
RESULTS
High job strain compared with low strain had a high, but insignificant association with alexithymic traits (adjusted OR, 2.26; 95% CI, 0.93-5.44). High job insecurity (adjusted OR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.21-4.22), and high job dissatisfaction (adjusted OR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.06-3.74) had significant associations with alexithymic traits.
CONCLUSIONS
This study suggests that job stress is associated with alexithymic traits in workers.

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Retraction Notice to: "Association between Job Stress and Alexithymic Traits" [Korean J Occup Environ Med 20(4) (2008) 295-301] and "Estimated Number of Korean Workers with Back Pain and Population-based Associated Factors of Back Pain: Data from the Four

Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2011; 23(3): 350. CrossRef

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A Case of Trichloroethylene Intoxication with Neuropsychiatric Symptoms: Ja Hyun Kim, Seong Jin Ryu, Byoung Gwon Kim, Hyung Joon Jhun, Jong Tae Park, Hae Joon Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(1):54-61. Published online March 31, 2008; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.1.54

Abstract PDF

BACKGROUND
Trichloroethylene (TCE) has been widely used as a typewriter correction fluid, paint remover, adhesive, spot removers and, particularly, as a degreasing agent in metal-fabricating operation. However, few studies have reported on the effects of TCE intoxication, in spite of numerous occupational accidents arising from TCE intoxication, even until quite recently used in small companies. TCE affects mainly the central nervous system (CNS) and is carcinogenic, even when carefully used and managed.
CASE
REPORT: A 48-year-old male worker visited our hospital complaining of decreased motivation and general weakness. In history taking, the patient had suffered insomnia, memory disturbance, stuttering, loss of interest and sexual desire, depressive mood for 4 years, dysesthesia with tingling sensation and pain in both extremities, and a nauseas feeling similar to a hangover which had been aggravated for 4 months before admission. The patient had been engaged in metal degreasing with TCE for 8 years. Electromyography indicated disturbance of autonomic function, but there was neither peripheral neuropathy nor cervical radiculopathy. Organic abnormalities including cerebellar atrophy and CNS infection were ruled out, while there was no indication of malignancy in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and metabolic disorders and electrolyte imbalances in laboratory test. The authors performed biological monitoring for the possible exposed chemicals. Urinary 2,5-hexanedione, a metabolite of n-hexane, was undetected but 3,331.1 mg/g creatinine of urinary trichloro-compounds, a metabolite of TCE, was detected. The patient was diagnosed as TCE intoxication due to a level of urinary trichloro-compounds in excess of the normal range (300 mg/g creatinine), in addition to an occupational history and clinical symptoms. TCE exposure was stopped in admission and the neuropsychiatric symptoms of the patient were improved as the urinary trichloro-compounds were decreased from 3,331.1 mg/g creatinine to 64.6 mg/g creatinine in 5 days.
CONCLUSION
Low-dose, chronic TCE intoxication shows neuropsychiatric symptoms, which are often misrecognized merely as a psychiatric disorder; its appropriate diagnosis, early treatment and exposure assessment are therefore difficult. The neuropsychiatric symptoms in workers who have been exposed to TCE should be monitored, detailed job history should be taken and biological monitoring should be conducted to gain early insight of chronic TCE exposure.

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Occupational Psychiatric Disorders in Korea
Kyeong-Sook Choi, Seong-Kyu Kang
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S87. CrossRef
Occupational Neurologic Disorders in Korea
Yangho Kim, Kyoung Sook Jeong, Yong-Hun Yun, Myoung-Soon Oh
Journal of Clinical Neurology.2010; 6(2): 64. CrossRef
Occupational Neurological Disorders in Korea
Eun-A Kim, Seong-Kyu Kang
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S26. CrossRef

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Factors Affecting the Health Promotion Activities of Workers: Eun Kyoung Kim, Byoung Gwon Kim, Jong Tae Park, Hyoung Ryoul Kim, Jung Wan Koo; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2007;19(1):56-64. Published online March 31, 2007; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2007.19.1.56

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper was to develop efficient and practical health promotion strategies in the workplace by investigating both the present status of health promotion and the barriers to its practice.
METHODS
A questionnaire was administered to 20% of industrial workers in the workplaces which receives the health care agency enterprise or are supported by a grant from the national treasury, K University Hospital in Gyeong-Gi province, and C University Hospital in Seoul.
RESULTS
According to the questionnaire survey, 51.3% workers were practicing health promotion activities and smoking cessation was the most common method among them. Regarding the factors that prompt workers to commence health promotion activities, TV or the mass media had a 33.4% effect, followed by a 22.1% effect for an abnormal finding at regular health screening. The most necessary health promotion activity in the workplace was exercise (41.9%), followed by stress management. When asked about their expectations of the health promotion program, 84.8% of the respondents answered that they expected it to be significantly or somewhat effective. Factors affecting the health promotion activities of workers were worker's health status and job control.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated that workers evaluate health promotion activities positively and that some workers are unable to participate in these activities despite their willingness to do so due to the barrier of circumstances. To encourage worker's participation, the government and employers should remove barriers.

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Comparison of Occupational Health Providers' Perception on Workers' Health Promotion Program by Business Types: Focusing on Need, Necessity, Performance, Barriers, and Effectiveness of Program
Young-Im Kim, Bokim Lee
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2016; 25(1): 29. CrossRef
Influence on Health Promotion Behavior among Government-funded Research Institute's Employee according to Perceptive Health Status and Social Support
Ji Hyun Kim, Sook Kyoung Park
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2015; 24(4): 270. CrossRef
Colorectal Cancer Screening in Korean Workers
Su Ho Park, Gwang Suk Kim
Cancer Nursing.2014; 37(4): 278. CrossRef
Relationships among Self Efficacy, Social Support, and Health Promoting Behaviors in Correctional Officers
Yeongmi Ha, Hyunkyung Choi
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2014; 23(3): 163. CrossRef
Knowledge of hepatitis A, Health Perception and Health Promoting Behavior among young and middle-age adults
Kyeong-Sook Cha, Yang-Sook Yoo, Ok-Hee Cho
Journal of Korean Public Health Nursing.2014; 28(2): 298. CrossRef
Impact of the oral health-related quality of life(OHIP-14) of industrial workers in some area
Hye-Won Cheon
Journal of Korean society of Dental Hygiene.2014; 14(6): 859. CrossRef
A Study on Gender Differences in Influencing Factors of Office Workers' Physical Activity
Duck Hee Chae, Su Hee Kim, Chung Yul Lee
Journal of Korean Academy of Community Health Nursing.2013; 24(3): 273. CrossRef
Factors Associated with Cancer Screening Rates of Manufacturing Workers
Su Ho Park, Chang Hee Kim, Eun Kyung Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2013; 22(3): 179. CrossRef
Factors Associated with Colorectal Cancer Screening of Blue-Color Workers
Su Ho Park, Gwang Suk Kim, Jong Uk Won, Chang Gi Park
Asian Oncology Nursing.2012; 12(2): 166. CrossRef
Effect Factors on Health Promotion Lifestyle of Shift Work Nurses
Young-Im Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2011; 20(3): 356. CrossRef
Health Behaviors by Job Stress Level in Large-Sized Company with Male and Female Workers
Hyunju Park, Hye-Sun Jung
Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing.2010; 40(6): 852. CrossRef

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Pneumonitis by Methylene Chloride: Kyu jin Chang, Jong tae Park, Eun kyoung Kim, Byoung gwon Kim, Hae joon Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2005;17(4):365-371. Published online December 31, 2005; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2005.17.4.365

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
The authors report a case of pneumonitis caused by methylene chloride (MC).
METHODS
The patient was examined and diagnosed by clinical, radiologic, laboratorial and medical evaluation. The concentration of MC in the factory was measured to determine the exposure level.
RESULTS
The patient had an infiltration in chest X-ray, which underwent rapid relief of radiological finding, respiratory acidosis and hypoxemia in arterial blood gas analysis, and a ground-glass opacity in high resolution computerized tomography. MC was the only exposed chemical compound in this case. The concentration of MC was 39.9 ppm in the factory.
CONCLUSIONS
We diagnosed this to be a case of pneumonitis by MC based on clinical laboratory findings, exposure history to MC and MC concentration in the factory.

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The Relationship between psychosocial stress and Work-related Musculoskeletal Symptoms of Assembly Line Workers in the Automobile industry: Il Ryong Kim, Jae Young Kim, Jong Tae Park, Jae Wook Choi, Hae Joon Kim, Yong Tae Yeom; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2001;13(3):220-231. Published online September 30, 2001; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2001.13.3.220

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
To determine the relationship between stress Factors and work-related musculoskeletal symptoms of assembly line workers in the automobile industry.
METHODS
A cross-sectional study was conducted in two Factories of automobile manufacturing companies where inappropriate posture and repetitive motions were required. The total number of subjects was 636, and consisted entirely of men. The Age, length of work duration, marital status, education level, smoking status, drinking status, sleeping time and stress scores were investigated according to subgroups of general characteristics. We divided the subjects into a Reference group and a Stress risk group to compare the frequency of the variables between them. The stress scores of the Positive symptom group were compared with the Symptom free group by the t-test. To measure the stress level, the PWI(Psychosocial Well being Index) which consists of 4 Factors, totaling 45 items, was used. A standardized self-reported questionnaire was used to assess the symptoms in workers. The criteria for positive symptoms were based on Operational Definition of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders of the NIOSH.
RESULTS
1) The subgroups of Age, Work duration, Marital status, Education level, Smoking status, Drinking status and Sleeping time revealed no differences in frequencies in musculoskeletal symptoms. 2) Higher PWI(p<0.05), Factor 3(p<0.05) and Factor 4(p<0.01) scores were observed in younger workers compared with older workers. 3) The workers who had work durations between 11-15 years showed higher PWI(p<0.01), Factor 2(p<0.01), Factor 3(p<0.01), and Factor 4(p<0.01), compared with other work duration subgroups. 4) Singles had higher Factor 4 scores(p<0.01). 5) The sleeping time of less than 6 hours a day expressed a higher PWI(p<0.01), Factor 2(p<0.05), and Factor 3(p<0.01), Factor 4(p<0.05). 6) There was no difference in the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms between the Reference group and Stress risk group. 7) The subjects who had Positive musculoskeletal symptoms showed a significant difference in Factor 2 scores compared with the Symptom free groups. 8) According to a univariate logistic regression analysis, Factor 2(OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00-1.04, p-value: 0.0291) expressed significant but mild effects on the musculoskeletal symptoms and a multivariate logistic regression showed a statistically significant effect on musculoskeletal symptoms(OR:1.04, 95% CI: 1.01-1.07, p-value: 0.0170).
CONCLUSION
Psychosocial stress scores were not higher in symptomatic subjects compared with those who had no symptoms. Sleeping longer showed a protective effect on symptoms but this was not statistically significant. There was no relationship between the stress scores and musculoskeletal symptoms in social performance and self-confidence, general well-being and vitality. Factor 2(Depression) was statistically significant though its effect was mild. Limited to this study, We could find partial relationship between psychosocial stress(Depression) and musculoskeletal symptoms. So it could therefore be suspected that ergonomic or other unknown factors may be more significant causes of musculoskeletal symptoms but we did not investigate these.

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Musculoskeletal Disorder Symptoms and Its Related Factors among Male Workers in Manufacturing Industries
Seung-Hyun Lee, Young-Chae Cho
Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society.2015; 16(10): 6627. CrossRef
A Study on the Work Ability and the Job Stress of the Workers in Manufacturing Industry of Automobile Parts
Yun-Soo Mok, Dong Won Lee, Seong Rok Chang
Journal of the Korean Society of Safety.2013; 28(3): 100. CrossRef
Musculoskeletal Disorder Symptoms and Related Factors among Male Workers in Small-scale Manufacturing Industries
Seung-Hyun Lee, Ju-Yeon Lee, Young-Chae Cho
Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society.2012; 13(9): 4025. CrossRef
Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders among Agricultural Workers
Soo-Jin Lee, Hwan-Jin Park
Journal of the Ergonomics Society of Korea.2011; 30(4): 525. CrossRef

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Effect of Occupational Lead on Male Sex Hormones: Hyeong Su Kim, Soung Hoon Chang, Won Jin Lee, Jae Wook Choi, Jong Tae Park, Nam Won Paik, Rok Ho Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2001;13(1):44-54. Published online March 31, 2001; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2001.13.1.44

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
This study was performed to evaluate the relationship between biological markers of lead exposure and level of sex hormones in men occupationally exposed to lead.
METHODS
In this study, 33 male workers who employed at smelting and battery factories were compared with 33 male workers who were not exposed to lead. As biological markers of lead exposure, hemoglobin, ZPP, blood lead and urine lead were measured. As sex hormones, FSH, LH, testosterone, SHBG and FTI were determined.
RESULTS
Hemoglobin level was significantly lower in exposed than in nonexposed group. Level of ZPP, blood lead, and urine lead were significantly higher in exposed than in nonexposed group. There was a trend that level of FSH, testosterone, SHBG, and FTI was lower in exposed than in nonexposed group respectively, but there were no statistical significance. In exposed group, FSH level was correlated with age, ZPP, and blood lead; testosterone level was correlated with hemoglobin, blood lead, urine lead, and SHBG; and FTI level was correlated with age.
CONCLUSIONS
Level of some sex hormones were lower in exposed than in nonexposed group but there were no statistical significance between the exposed and the nonexposed group. But level of sex hormones were correlated with several biological markers of lead in exposed group. It suggests that occupational lead exposure might affect sex hormones.

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Assessment of Neurobehavioral Performance among Welders Exposed to Manganese: Nak Jung Sung, Joon Sakong, Jong Hak Chung, Dae Seong Kim, Joong Jung Lee, Jong Tae Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2000;12(3):327-337. Published online September 30, 2000; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2000.12.3.327

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVES
A cross sectional study was carried out in the welders exposed to manganese and control group. The aim of this study was to assess the adverse effects of manganese on central nervous system of welders.
METHODS
The study group consisted of 49 welders and the reference group, 49 workers matched with welders for age and educational level in automobile manufacturing company. Concentration of manganese in welding hume, in blood, and cumulative exposure index(CEI) were determined for each subject. For each group, computerized neurobehavioral test including Simple Reaction Time, Digit Symbol, Digit Span, and Finger Tapping Speed of Swedish Performance Evaluation System were applied.
RESULTS
Exposure level of manganese in welders were very low(mean CEI 0.069). Welders exposed to manganese had slower response speed, slower motor steadiness, and shorter memory span than control group. But these differences were not statistically significant. The performance of Finger Tapping Speed tended to lower as environmental and biological exposure index got higher. Other neurobehavioral tests were found to have a little association with the exposure indices.
CONCLUSIONS
There was no significant difference of neurobehavioral performance between welders and control group. This study indicates that Finger Tapping Speed measuring motor steadiness might be a one of useful tests for early detection of adverse effects of welding on central nervous system.

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Effects of computer familiarity and computer type on the performance of Korean computerized neurobehavioral test
Nak Joon Baek, Gun Il Park, Young Seok Byun, Man Joong Jeon, Joon Sakong
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef
A Study on the Total, Particle Size-Selective Mass Concentration of Airborne Manganese, and Blood Manganese Concentration of Welders in a Shipbuilding Yard
Jong Su Park, Pan Gyi Kim, Jee Yeon Jeong
Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2015; 25(4): 472. CrossRef
Occupational Psychiatric Disorders in Korea
Kyeong-Sook Choi, Seong-Kyu Kang
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S87. CrossRef
Neurobehavioral Changes of Shipyard Painters Exposed to Mixed Organic Solvents
Choong Ryeol LEE, Kyoung Sook JEONG, Yangho KIM, Cheol In YOO, Ji Ho LEE, Young Hee CHOI
INDUSTRIAL HEALTH.2005; 43(2): 320. CrossRef

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A Study on Thyroid Function among Male Workers Occupationally Exposed to Inorganic Lead: Hyeong Su Kim, Yun Cheol Park, Jae Wook Choi, Woo Whan Rho, Dae Seong Kim, Jong Tae Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(2):153-160. Published online June 30, 1999; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.2.153

Abstract PDF

This study was performed to evaluate the relationship between biological markers of lead exposure and thyroid functions among male workers occupationally exposed to inorganic lead. 30 male workers exposed to inorganic lead at smelting and battery factories were investigated, and 30 male control workers who were not exposed to inorganic lead occupationally were chosen for this study. The data were obtained using direct interview and assessment of biological markers of lead exposure and thyroid indices. As biological markers for lead exposure, blood ZPP. blood lead, urine lead and hemoglobin were measured. As thyroid indices. TSH and FT4were determined. The results of the study were summarized as follows 1. Levels of ZPP, blood lead, and urine lead were significantly higher in lead-exposed group than in nonexposed control group(p<0.01 all). Hemoglobin level was significantly lower in lead-exposed group than in nonexposed group(p<0.01). 2. Study subjects had normal values of TSH and FT4 But TSH level was insignificantly lower in lead-exposed group than in nonexposed control group(p=0.11) and FT4 level was significantly lower in lead-exposed group than in nonexposed group(p<0.01). 3. As the result of simple regression analysis in lead-exposed group. FT4 level was negatively correlated with the amount of smoke, blood ZPP, and blood lead(p < 0.05 all). 4. In lead-exposed group, FT4 was used as a independent variable and age, the amount of smoke, blood ZPP, and blood lead were entered as a dependent variables in the model. As the result of multiple regression analysis with stepwise selection method, the amount of smoke and blood ZPP were negative predictors of FT4(p=0. 04, p=0.09, respectively). In conclusion, levels of TSH and FT4were lower in lead-exposed group than in nonexposed control group. In lead-exposed group, FT4 level was negatively correlated with amount of smoke, blood ZPP, and blood lead in simple regression analysis. To clarify this relation, further research between lead exposure and thyroid function may be required for worker with long-term lead exposure or high lead exposure.

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Occupational Hearing Loss in Korea
Kyoo Sang Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S62. CrossRef

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A Study of Working Status and Industrial Accidents for Migrant Workers in Korea: Jeong Ah Kim, Jae Wook Choi, Hae Joon Kim, Jong Tae Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1999;11(1):66-79. Published online March 31, 1999; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1999.11.1.66

Abstract PDF

This study was conducted to evaluate and to recognize the status and the problems of working conditions, and industrial accidents for migrant workers in a group of 342 who lives in Ansan area, Kyunggi province. By the questionnaire written by 5 languages (English, Bangladesh, Indonesian, Chinese and Korean), the informations of socio-demographic factors, occupational conditions of engaged company and general & occupational health status were obtained from June, 1st to July 30th, 1998. We used the ANOVA to examine differences of working hours, days and average monthly wages between overseas industrial trainee and illegal migrant workers, and by using logistic regression, odds ratio of general risk factors for industrial accidents in migrant workers were calculated. The results obtained were as follows 1. The major distribution of nationals were from Philippine, Indonesia, Bangladesh and China(92.1%), and the most of subjects were man(78.9%) and over high school graduate(81.9%). 2. Most migrant workers worked at small scale companies under 50 employees, and engaged in dye, textile clothing, leather industry. The average working hours were 59.9 hours per week in overseas industrial trainee, 64.9 hours in illegal migrant worker respectively. 3. Trainees have transferred to another company for 1.89 times, and workers who have changed qualification from trainee to illegal status were 3.09 tims, and illegal workers moved 2.36 times. The major portion of reason to move to another company were low salary and overdue salary. 4. Trainees, workers who have changed position from trainee to illegal status, and illegal workers knows 62.27%, 42.31%, and 20.45% in each about legal documentation for foreign industrial trainees in Korea "Regulations for protecting and managing of foreign industrial trainees in Korea" published on March 1995. Additionally, trainees and illegal workers have experienced medical examination by 52.3% and 18.2% respectively. 5. Industrial accident condition from Jun. 1st, 1997 to Dec. 3lth, 1997 were as follows in case of frequent rate, trainees and illegal workers were 30.04, 23.78 each, and 8.6%, 7.4% for industrial accident rate respectively. 6. The most common causes and types of industrial accident were inappropriate motions of body and abrasion, and body sites most vulnerable to injury were the hands and fingers. The results suggest that working status and industrial accidents of migrant workers are very poor in Korea. Therefore, occupational safety and health policy aimed at migrant workers are needed to protect the migrant workers.

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Sister Chromatid Exchanges in Workers Occupationally Exposed to Ethylene Oxide: Soung Hoon Chang, Won Jin Lee, Cheong Sik Kim, Cheong Hyun Hwang, Jong Tae Park, Dae Seong Kim, Young Whan Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(4):428-437. Published online December 31, 1998; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.4.428

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Operators of hospital sterilizers who use ethylene oxide (EtO) were studied to determine the exposure of EtO level and the frequency of sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) from June 12 to July 20, 1997. To evaluate SCEs in the peripheral blood cells, we selected 22 workers at the central supply room of 4 university hospitals and 22 unexposed workers at the same hospitals according to match sex, age, and smoking habit and also did questionnaires. The mean air concentrations (8-hr TWA) of EtO at 4 university hospitals were less than 1 ppm. The SCE frequencies in exposed workers to EtO and controls were normally distributed. The SCE frequencies in exposed workers to EtO and controls were 6.42+/-.63, 5.86+/-.69, respectively and their differences were statistically significant (p=0.0093). But there were no statistically significant differences in smoking, alcohol intake, coffee drinking. Especially smokers who exposed to EtO were increased SCE statistically significant than the exposed group who did not smoke.

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Analysis of Micronuclei and Its Association with Genetic Polymorphisms in Hospital Workers Exposed to Ethylene Oxide
Sun-Yeong Lee, Yang-Jee Kim, Young-Joo Choi, Joong-Won Lee, Young-Hyun Lee, Mi-Yeon Shin, Won Kim, Chung-Sik Yoon, Sung-Kyoon Kim, Hai-Won Chung
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences.2011; 37(6): 429. CrossRef

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Cumulative Trauma Disorders Among Shipyard Workers and Application of Baseline Checklist for Risk Assessment: Sang Hwan Han, Nam Jong Paik, Donghyun Park, Ki Eon Jang, Myung Hag Lee, Jong Tae Park, Dae Sung Kim, Yeon Sook Lee, Kyung Ja Paik, Young Soo Shin, Dong Bin Song; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(4):579-588. Published online December 31, 1997; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.4.579

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Cumulative trauma disorders were surveyed in a cross-sectional study of 100 male ship yard workers and 43 male office workers. And baseline checklist for risk assessment of cumulative trauma disorders was applicated in a ship making process. Cases of cumulative trauma disorders were defined using physical examinations and electronic diagnostic methods. Data on demographics, individual factors (medical condition), work organization and psychosocial aspects of work were obtained by questionnaire. Association between the above factors and cumulative trauma disorders were assessed by multiple logistic regression models. 29(29 %) participants of male shipyard workers and 4(9.2 %) study subjects of male office workers met our case definitions for cumulative trauma disorders. The myofascial pain syndrome of neck muscles(12 % of participants) and carpal tunnel syndrome(5 % of participants) were the major two medical conditions in shipyard workers. The odds of male shipyard workers for cumulative trauma disorders to male office workers was 3.15 after adjustment of age(95 % C.I. :2.25-5.44). And the variables such as duration of present job, HIVD condition, and surges in workload were associated at least one of the cumulative trauma disorders in the final models (p<0.05) . This study indicates that work related upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders are relatively common among shipyard workers, and shows that the psychosocial factors is not likely to be related to the occur rences of these disorders in heavy workers. Also we developed baseline checklist for risk assessment of cumulative trauma disorders. The checklist was unique in that its expected users were industrial hygienists and occupational healthing nurses who did not have much ergonomic background and in that it was targeted to Korean workers in various types. As the first application of the checklist, shipyard workers were evaluated.

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Medical Managements of Musculoskeletal Diseases in Shipbuilding Industry
Jong-Eun Kim, Young-Ki Kim, Dong-Mug Kang
Journal of the Ergonomics Society of Korea.2012; 31(1): 157. CrossRef
Symptom Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Effects of Prior Acute Injury among Aging Male Steelworkers
Won‐Jun Choi, Young‐Joong Kang, Ji‐Young Kim, Sang‐Hwan Han
Journal of Occupational Health.2009; 51(3): 273. CrossRef

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Musculoskeletal Diseases of Upper Extremities Among the Electronic Assembly Workers and Telecommunication Workers: Jae Wook Choi, Yorig Tae Yum, Dong Bin Spng, Jong Tae Park, Soung Hoon Chang, Jung Ae Choi; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1996;8(2):301-319. Published online September 30, 1996; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1996.8.2.301

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The purpose of this study is to investigate the current status of and to collect the basic informations of musculoskeletal diseases of upper extremities in manufacturing and telecommunication companies. The subjects were 213 workers, consisted Of 98 manufacturing workers and 115 telephoBfi operators. The musculoskeletal ,symptom survey, Job safety analysis (JSA), and medical examinations including neurologic, and'nerve.cqnduction velocity (NCV) test were conducted.: All workers were women in company A, while the other composed of 68(69.4%) men and 30(30.6%) women. The results were as follows: 1. The rates of self-reporting symptoms in each company were 85.2% at the neck, 81.1% at the shoulder joint, 73.0% at the wrist joint and 34.8% at the elbow joint in company A, while 56.1% at the shoulder joint, 51.2% at the neck and 23.5% at the elbow joint in company B in order. 2. No relationship was observed between the work duration and symptom rate in company A, but the highest symptom rate was observed at the neck in 10-19 year work duration group, at the shoulder, elbow and wrist joint in 5-9 year work duration group in company B. 3. Over the 22.8% of total workers in this study having symptoms got medical treatment at the medical clinics or drug stores, but there was no statistical difference between both companies. 4. In company A, 16(13.9%) workers were classified as D category, 12(10.4%) workers as C category and 2(1.7%) workers as R category among 115 workers. And D category was 10(10.2%), C category 31(31.6%) and R category 4(4.0%) among 98 workers in company B. D category means disease category needed futher treatment, C category means disease category needed no treatment and R category means recheck category, needed futher evaluation. 5. The types of musculoskeletal disorders including D, C, and R category were 46 cases(D 13, C 30, R 3) of tension neck .syndrome (TNS), 16 cases (D 3, C 8, R 5) of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), 5 cases of De Quervain's disease, 3 cases of lateral epicondylitis, 3 cases of bicipital tendinitis, 3 cases of rotator cuff tendinitis, 2 cases of medical epicondylitis, and 5 cases of cervical disc syndrome. 6. In company A, the total cases of 11 TNS, 8 CTS, 3 De Quervain's disease, 3 lateral epicondylitis, 3 rotator cuff tendinitis and 1 cervical disc syndrome were diagnosed and so were total cases of 35 TNS, 8 CTS and 4 cervical disc syndrome in company B. 7. By stepwise multiple regression analysis with dichotomization of musculoskeletal disease, the following odds ratios were significantly high (p<0.05)-sex (2.707) and age(l.926).

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Effects of the Health Support Network Project on Musculoskeletal Disorders of Females
Deok-Ju Kim, Hee-Jung Han, Yeong-Ae Yang
The Korean Journal of Health Service Management.2015; 9(1): 169. CrossRef
Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Korea Provoked by Workers’ Collective Compensation Claims against Work Intensification
Dongmug Kang, Youngki Kim, Young-Il Lee, Sangbaek Koh, Inah Kim, Hoonkoo Lee
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2014;[Epub] CrossRef
Study on the Musculoskeletal Subjective Symptoms Disorders and Health Promotion Behavior of Daily Plant Construction Workers in One Area
Ja-Sook Kim, Ja-Ok Kim, Ji-Yong Seo, Hack-Sun Kim
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2014; 23(1): 28. CrossRef
The Trends and Status of Work-related Musculoskeletal Diseases under Korean Worker's Compensation System
Kyung Ha Kim, Rah Il Hwang, Min Hyun Suk
Korean Journal of Occupational Health Nursing.2013; 22(2): 102. CrossRef
Risk Factors of Work-related Upper Extremity Musculoskeletal Disorders in Male Shipyard Workers: Structural Equation Model Analysis
Byung-Chan Park, Hae-Kwan Cheong, Eun-A Kim, Soo Geun Kim
Safety and Health at Work.2010; 1(2): 124. CrossRef

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Urinary beta-Galactosidase Activity as an Early Indicator of Renal Dysfunction in Workers Exposed to Mercury Vapor: Yon Hee Oh, Kwang Jong Kim, Byung Chul Chon, Jong Tae Park; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1995;7(1):128-138. Published online February 28, 1995; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1995.7.1.128

Abstract PDF: The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between beta-galactosidase activity in urine, in serum and urinary N-acetyl-beta-glucosarminidase activity as an early indicator of renal effect and mercurT concentration in urine and blood, reflecting the intensity of exposure to or the amount of body burden of mercury. This study was carried out among 70 workers exposed to mercury vapor and 63 non-exposed workers as a reference. The results were as follows ; 1. The mean concentration of urinary mercury (43.5 microgram/1) in exposed subjects was about nine times higher than that of non-exposed subjects, but the mean values of blood mercury were not different from each other 2. The mean values of beta-galactosidase activity in urine (119.7micromoleMU/h/g creatinine) and in blood (73.7 moIMU/H/l) of mercury-exposed subjects were significantly higher than those of non-exposed subjects. 3. In mercury-exposed subjects, beta-galactosidase activities in urine (r=0.38, p<0.01) and in serum (r=0.26, p<0.05) were correlated to urinary mercury concentration, but not to blood mercury concentration. The urinary excretion of beta-galactosidase activity was closely associated with urinary mercury concentration in the result of the multiple regression analysis. 4. The urinary beta-galactosidase activity in exposed subjects increased as the urinary mercury increased, and in the exposed subjects with more than 50microgram/1 of urinary mercury was highly related to urinary beta-galactosidase activity(r=0.47, p<0.05). 5. Among exposed subjects with more than 50microgram/l of urinary mercury, 20.0% of them showed abnormal value of urinary beta-galactosidase activity.

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