Original scientific paper
Combined effects of shift work and environmental hazards (heat, noise, toxic agents)
J. Rutenfranz
; Institute of Occupational Health, University Dortmund, Dortmund, FR Germany
H.M. Bolt
; Institute of Occupational Health, University Dortmund, Dortmund, FR Germany
W. Ottmann
; Institute of Occupational Health, University Dortmund, Dortmund, FR Germany
B. Neidhart
; Institute of Occupational Health, University Dortmund, Dortmund, FR Germany
Abstract
The paper deals with the results of studies or discussions concerning the problem of nightwork combined with other adverse working conditions. Special emphasis is laid on the untoward effect of high temperature during nightwork, as well as on noise and exposure to chemicals. It is shown that there is no substantial influence of heat stress on the circadian rhythm of adrenaline excretion under sitting working conditions with the subject performing a difficult mental task at warm climates up to 30 °C BET. Shiftwork and noise induce independent different effects which can be explained in terms of activation for shiftwork and in terms of tension for noise. The combination of both adverse exposures is therefore partly subtractive but partly additive as night work and noise negatively affect daysleep. Practical experience in the field of combined effects of shiftwork and chemical agents is lacking, but theoretical speculations lead to the conclusion that there may exist a time of day dependence of some chemicals, used at workplaces.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
152201
URI
Publication date:
26.3.1990.
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