Occupational Illness. Occupational diseases

There are a number of diseases that are in one way or another associated with professional activity citizens. These include illnesses or accidents that result in a person temporarily or permanently losing their ability to work. Kinds occupational diseases are associated with the influence of harmful occupational factors, such as:

The above factors directly or indirectly affect the health of citizens. In this regard, a law was passed obliging citizens to insure against accidents and employers to pay compensation. Depending on the factors, there are general classification diseases.

Types of occupational diseases

1. Diseases respiratory tract . These include bronchitis and asthma. Diseases are associated with such professional activities as the production of chemicals, synthetic products, and phytoproducts. Activities in dust-related enterprises are especially dangerous of different nature;
2. Musculoskeletal diseases motor system , such as chondrosis, spinal curvature. They often occur in people whose activities involve standing on their feet for a long time or, conversely, “sedentary” work, as well as heavy lifting. This category includes hairdressers, office workers, loaders, etc.;
3. Gastrointestinal diseases intestinal tract(GIT). The most common gastritis, ulcers, colitis. Associated with eating disorders. Office employees are especially susceptible to these diseases. Often people refuse breakfast, and at work they try to snack on sweets, cookies, and drink coffee. Lack of adequate nutrition to maintain normal metabolism leads to gastrointestinal diseases;
4. Skin diseases such as dermatitis, eczema. Associated with work where there is contact with substances that damage the skin, fuels and lubricants, medications, dry herbal products;
5. Workplace injuries. These are burns, frostbite, wounds varying degrees, fractures, injuries.

Professional diseases can cause disability of citizens. Workplace injuries that result in permanent disability require the business to pay compensation to the employee.

List of occupational diseases

• Diseases, associated with chronic intoxication:

1. acute alcohol poisoning;
2. petroleum product poisoning;
3. benzene poisoning;
4. gas poisoning;
5. acid poisoning;
6. alkali poisoning;
7. metal poisoning.

• Diseases, associated with allergic reactions:

1. allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, laryngitis, etc.;
2. contact urticaria;
3. bronchial asthma.

• Diseases, associated with effects on the respiratory system:

1. Chronical bronchitis;
2. obstructive pulmonary disease;
3. pneumoconiosis, etc.

• Diseases, related to industrial vibration.
• Diseases, associated with biological factors.

This is just a small list of occupational diseases. If the diagnosis is confirmed, the employee has the right to receive rehabilitation at the expense of the employer. Due to this the list of occupational diseases is periodically updated.

List of occupational diseases

It includes those diseases that caused by biological, chemical, physical factors, industrial production . Diseases that are obtained as a result of physical exertion and overexertion are also included in this list.

An example could be:

• toxic anemia, hepatitis;
• radiation sickness, lesions;
• radiculitis, diseases of the nervous system.

The list of occupational diseases is a document with which you can confirm the diagnosis. Based on his the commission issues a verdict of incapacity for work.

Despite the fact that currently the level of technological progress in various fields of industry and improvement of working conditions have significantly reduced the growth of morbidity at work, some occupational diseases do not lose ground in the frequency and severity of clinical manifestations. In addition, technical and scientific achievements, widely used in production, the use of modern chemicals - all this provokes the emergence of new factors that adversely affect the human body.

Occupational factors that adversely affect workers' health are very diverse. Although today occupational diseases most often occur in a mild or erased form, there are frequent cases of not only occupational diseases, but also industrial injuries.

Work-related injuries include acute diseases arising as a result of chemical, thermal and electrical damage to an organ or tissue during the work process (at the workplace).

Some forms of occupational diseases primarily affect the respiratory system, nervous system, musculoskeletal system, skin, etc. Therefore, at present there is a need to combine industrial diseases into separate groups, both according to the system-organ and etiological principle.

The etiological group includes the following occupational diseases caused by exposure to:

1) Industrial dust (dust bronchitis, chronic nasopharyngolaryngitis, pneumoconiosis, silicosis, metalloconiosis, etc.).

2) Chemical factors production environment(chronic and acute intoxication, poisoning with lead, mercury, benzene, pesticides).

3) Physical factors of the working environment (diseases caused by exposure to noise, vibration disease, chochlear neuritis, radiation pathology, diseases provoked by high and low temperatures).

4) Overstrain of individual organs and systems (diseases peripheral nerves and muscles, glenohumeral periarthrosis, deforming osteoarthrosis, epicondylosis of the shoulder, aseptic osteonecrosis, bursitis, lumbosacral and cervical radiculopathies).

In addition to the above, occupational diseases are sometimes supplemented by two more groups of occupational diseases: neoplasms and allergies. Allergoses include: dermatitis, eczema, bronchial asthma, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, Quincke's edema, toxic-allergic hepatitis. They often develop during workers’ contact with enzyme preparations, metal compounds, polymeric materials, etc.

The cause of neoplasms is often the products of distillation of oil and coal, asbestos, benzene, vinyl chloride, arsenic, etc. Their harmful effects over a long time can cause various forms of cancer.

Diagnosis of occupational diseases is somewhat different from diagnosis of other types of diseases. Sometimes, for an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to pay attention to some signs that are not reflected in the clinical picture, but sometimes play a decisive diagnostic role. For example, a lead “rim” on the gums or even an unusual pattern of dreams may indicate carbon disulfide or leaded gasoline poisoning. If such signs are detected, additional targeted examination should be carried out.

What is the essence of preventive measures at manufacturing enterprises? As mentioned above, occupational diseases occur almost asymptomatically, that is, in an erased form. This is the main pitfall in the field of diagnosis and treatment of occupational diseases.

Successful implementation preventive measures makes it possible to avoid serious damage.

Occupational diseases of hairdressers

Hairdressing today is one of the most popular and profitable areas of service to the population. Hair salons and elite hairdressers are opening one after another, and the work of a professional hairdresser is appreciated. The emergence on the market of new and technologically advanced hair care, hair styling and hair care products allows hairdressers to create real masterpieces of hairdressing.

At the same time, the work of a hairdresser is quite complex, time-consuming and often has a negative impact on well-being and health. The most common occupational diseases of hairdressers relate primarily to the respiratory and circulatory system. To a large extent, hairdressers complain about allergies of various etiologies, as well as problems with the musculoskeletal system. Each disease should be examined in detail separately in order to understand exactly what factors provoke the occurrence of a particular occupational illness in representatives of this field of activity.

Allergic reactions, allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma

As you know, allergies are a kind of response immune system a person to an exogenous (externally influencing) substance - an allergen. For hairdressers, such substances (irritants) are hair and professional products for styling. Daily manipulations of shortening clients' hair lead to regular inhalation by the hairdresser, which over time ends in the development allergic reactions and inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes.

Since human hair is quite light, it easily enters the oral cavity, and then downward path into the lungs, creating a compressed layer of hair dust there. This can cause the development of atopic bronchial asthma. Symptoms of asthma (choking, coughing, difficulty breathing) can occur in attacks, so a hairdresser who has been diagnosed with this disease needs to seriously think about the advisability of continuing to engage in hairdressing.

Less dangerous, but no less unpleasant, allergic rhinitis leads the occupational diseases of hairdressers and manicure-pedicurists. Rhinitis of allergic etiology can eventually transform into bronchial asthma, so its treatment and prevention must be taken no less seriously. The main provocateurs allergic rhinitis(also dermatitis) are various professional hair treatment and styling products. Since most of these products are produced in the form of aerosols, their spraying leads to widespread distribution of chemicals and, accordingly, to their frequent inhalation.

Phlebeurysm

Varicose veins are their chronic insufficiency, characterized by impaired venous outflow. The likelihood of developing varicose veins is directly proportional to a sedentary lifestyle. The work of a hairdresser involves a long static standing position. Accordingly, the entire load falls on the lower extremities, which provokes swelling of the legs and blockage of the veins with the development of thrombophlebitis.

It is easier to prevent occupational diseases of hairdressers than to treat them. Therefore, it is necessary to engage in feasible prevention varicose veins veins During a long forced standing position of the body, you need to change your position as often as possible, do not wear uncomfortable shoes, and after work take foot baths with herbs or sea ​​salt. Also shown cold and hot shower, hiking and swimming.

Osteochondrosis

The disease of the 21st century, which has affected more than half of the world's population, has not spared hairdressers. With osteochondrosis, the spinal region where the main load falls is affected. Due to the nature of their work, masters of salons and hairdressing salons are often forced to be in a slightly bent position, and this position can be maintained for a very long time. A hairdresser who is focused on the work process completely forgets about the inconvenience. But it is precisely the long-term uncomfortable position of the body that is detrimental to the spine and intervertebral discs, which gradually atrophy and wear out.

To prevent diseases associated with musculoskeletal disorders, regular wearing of gaiters, socks or ankle guards is recommended. Regarding the activities of hairdressers, measures to prevent occupational diseases must be constant.

Occupational diseases of miners

The work of workers in the coal mining industry is considered one of the most harmful and difficult. The level of occupational injuries in the workplace is quite high, since basic safety standards are simply not observed.

There are a number of factors that accompany the occurrence of occupational diseases among coal industry workers. First of all, this is the contact of miners with certain types of dust. We can say that industrial dust is the most unfavorable factor affecting human health. If we are talking about the work of miners, then it is coal dust that negatively affects the workers’ bodies.

Occupational diseases of miners primarily affect the respiratory system and cardiovascular system. How high the harm from a strong accumulation of carbon dioxide, insufficient oxygen content, and the accumulation of carbon monoxide, methane, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide in the mine atmosphere can be judged by the number and variety of diseases specific to coal industry workers.

Pneumoconiosis

For many years, occupational diseases of miners were largely pulmonary, in particular, they triggered the pneumofibrotic process. The most common form of chronic dust diseases is pneumoconiosis. The classification of pneumoconiosis includes several types, depending on the etiological principle. However, only three types of pneumoconiosis are typical for miners:

1) Silicosis - pneumoconiosis caused by inhalation of quartz dust, which contains free silicon dioxide;

2) Carboconiosis occurs due to exposure to carbon-containing dust: coke, coal, soot, graphite

3) Silicatosis - pneumoconiosis that occurs when inhaling mineral dust containing silicon dioxide in combination with iron, aluminum, magnesium, etc.

In all cases, occupational diseases of miners of dust etiology can be prevented and treated. Prevention and treatment of these diseases have common principles of treatment with other types of bronchopulmonary pathologies. The conditions for their effectiveness are the complete or temporary cessation of the impact of an unfavorable factor and the implementation of elimination therapy.

Vibration disease

This occupational disease is distinguished by a variety of clinical manifestations and course features. The main factor, of course, is high level industrial vibration. Such concomitant production factors as noise, static tension of the muscles of the shoulder girdle, forced position of the body play a significant role in the development of vibration disease. Workers in the mining industry are affected to the same extent as representatives of the engineering, metallurgical and railway industries.

The difficulty of diagnosing vibration disease is explained by the uniqueness of its clinical manifestations. Basically, vibration disease affects the nervous and cardiovascular systems, the musculoskeletal system and metabolic processes. The development of pathology is based on the most complex mechanisms of neuro-reflex and neurohumoral disorders.

Another unfavorable factor in the working environment in the work of miners is noise. Long-term exposure to noise on the human body primarily causes changes in the organ of hearing, cardiovascular and nervous systems. It should be noted that during the labor process associated with exposure to noise, a forced body position, muscle tension, and increased attention are inevitable. At the same time, work may be accompanied by exposure to dust, toxic substances, vibrations. All this, in turn, increases the likelihood of diseases directly related to noise exposure and affects clinical picture diseases.

Preventive measures to prevent the harmful effects of noise on the body of mining workers should, of course, be aimed at reducing its level. This can be achieved by improving the design of profile tools and equipment. If such measures are not possible, it is necessary to use personal protective equipment.

Driver illnesses

Those behind the wheel need a neurologist, urologist, proctologist, and pulmonologist. 17 major ailments plague drivers most often. The most dangerous: prostatitis, hemorrhoids, sciatica, osteochondrosis, hypertension and headaches.

It is necessary to start taking care of health by putting the car in order and equipping it with elementary devices that help maintain the body in good condition. These are passive means of prevention: massagers and heating pads, a belt with biphotons, swimming trunks, and socks. Heating and massaging save not only man's dignity, but also women's charms.

European experts have found out that more than three hours spent in a crooked state are already dangerous for the driver. If you sit like this for 12 hours, temporary impotence occurs. Sitting for a long time generally affects male strength. For drivers, the problem is in his seat. It must have a certain orthopedic shape. On foreign cars, the seats have several adjustments with which you can fit them to your body.

Remember: the correct curve of the spine in a chair should resemble the letter S in profile.

Warmth in the cabin

Why should the engine be kept in order so as not to catch the “driver’s disease”?

The heating of interiors in domestic cars does not stand up to criticism. Our stoves are bad! And the point is not only that they heat poorly and often fail. Our stoves drive into the cabin all the gas muck that hovers around the engine under the hood. How can we ensure that not only warm, but also, if possible, clean air enters the cabin?

First of all, you must not be lazy to thoroughly scrub the engine even in winter. Our roads are sprinkled with salt or watered with chloride compounds. When dropped onto a heated engine, drops of solution and salt turn into very dangerous gases. There is no escape from them. There is only one way out - clean the engine. Especially the general radiator and the stove radiator, if there is one.

Most “occupational” diseases of drivers are associated with an uncomfortable driving position. As a result, blood circulation in the pelvis is disrupted and the load on the spine increases. Most often, drivers suffer from radiculitis and osteochondrosis. Unfortunately, these diseases are a “gift” for the rest of your life. Osteochondrosis, moreover, can generally lead to disability. Due to frequent drafts and running air conditioning, drivers often experience inflamed neck and chest muscles (this is called myositis). The bouquet is complemented by hemorrhoids and prostatitis.

Another group of diseases is a consequence of increased emotional stress. Constant stress while driving increases the risk of heart and vascular diseases. That’s why drivers often have heart attacks, hypertension, and crashes. heart rate. Drivers, among other things, are exposed to increased exposure to toxic substances, which leads to decreased immunity, allergies, bronchial asthma and even cancer.

In first place in terms of danger are exhaust gases. Most cars run on gasoline, which releases more than 200 toxic products when burned. The most harmful to health are oxides of carbon (CO) and nitrogen (NO), hydrocarbons (formaldehyde, benzopyrene, phenol) and heavy metals.

Carbon monoxide (or carbon monoxide) is colorless and odorless, so humans may not be able to sense its presence in the air even at lethal concentrations. However, it is very rare for carbon monoxide levels in the atmosphere to reach life-threatening levels. The insidiousness of carbon monoxide is different: this compound “prevents” the blood protein hemoglobin from carrying oxygen through organs and tissues. As a result, oxygen starvation may occur, which primarily affects the brain. In mild poisoning, observed headache, heaviness in the head, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting. In more severe cases, the person may even lose consciousness.

Nitrogen oxides are no less dangerous - main reason smog on busy highways. They irritate the respiratory system and eyes and can cause chronic lung diseases.

Hydrocarbons, especially benzapyrene, are carcinogens, i.e. substances that can cause cancer

Products emitted by car tires are hazardous to health. During sudden braking, they release a whole bunch of toxic substances: benzene, xylene, styrene, toluene; carbon disulfide, formaldehyde, phenols; sulfur oxides. When tires rub against asphalt, nitroso compounds are also formed, which are powerful carcinogens. The International Organization for Research on Cancer included them in the list of so-called priority toxicants, i.e. substances representing greatest danger for human health.

Tire dust, formed when the tread wears out, when it gets into the lungs, causes allergic reactions, bronchial asthma, and when it comes into contact with the mucous membrane and skin - conjunctivitis, rhinitis and urticaria. According to American scientists, 900,000 tons of dust enter the atmosphere in the United States per year; no less than it is thrown away on Russian roads.

Another source of danger in the car are ... brake pads. The fact is that they are made of asbestos, “communication” with which leads to cancer (for example, it has long been banned from using in the construction of new houses, and in Germany they even demolish old buildings where this material was used). But greatest harm human health is harmed by phenol, which is released during braking when the temperature of the disc and pads reaches eight hundred degrees.

What do drivers need to do to avoid trouble? No matter how trivial it may sound, a variety of physical activity is needed, that is, a daily complex gymnastic exercises. Circular movements in the lumbar spine, all kinds of flexion and extension. If you are too lazy, wear biophotonic products both day and night.

A contrast shower is very useful, but with a HuaShen nozzle. Temperature “swinging” activates blood circulation, normalizes the tone of the nervous system, and stimulates the immune system. pollen necessary to strengthen connective tissue, to eliminate the deficiency of essential nutrients.

Gasoline fumes can cause aggression. Gas station workers.

Rising gasoline prices are not the only reason for the anger of motorists at gas stations. A new study has found that fumes from leaded and unleaded gasoline can cause aggressive behavior, reports Health of Ukraine.

If you suddenly feel inexplicably angry or anxious while filling your tank at a gas station, don’t be surprised. In a new study published in the journal BMC Physiology, experiments on rats showed that gasoline fumes can cause real aggression. Rats exposed to the vapor were more likely to scratch and fight with each other. They also showed signs of restlessness and anxiety. According to scientists from the University of Cairo, Egypt, the chemicals in the fumes caused damage to brain cells, resulting in changes in the animals' behavior.

Scientists warn that gasoline fumes that people are exposed to every day can affect their mental and physical health. Lead study author Amal Kinawy said: “Increased aggression may be another risk for people chronically exposed to urban air pollution from car exhaust. Millions of people breathe gasoline fumes every day while refueling their cars.”

During the study, rats were exposed to leaded gasoline, unleaded gasoline, and clean air. Those animals that inhaled chemical fumes attacked each other more often than those that simply breathed air. While there was no significant difference between the effects of leaded and unleaded gasoline on the behavior of the rats, unleaded gasoline did make the rats slightly more aggressive.

Previous work has already shown a connection between toxic exhaust gases and increased risk abortion, the development of dementia and allergic reactions. In Britain, leaded petrol has been banned since 2000 due to its harmful effects on people's health, especially children.

Illness of teachers and loaders

At first, people rarely pay attention to varicose veins - there are even more severe diseases. Indeed, in the first stages the disease resembles an annoying cosmetic defect: a network of blood vessels appears under the skin, swelling appears, heaviness in the legs in the evenings... When trophic ulcers “bloom” on the legs with might and main and a serious threat of disability appears, only the unlucky patient can be saved vascular surgeons.

Varicose veins are insidious and cunning

Varicose veins are a time bomb, says Doctor of Medical Sciences, vascular surgeon of the highest category, Anatoly Dominyak. - By giving up on yourself, a person risks getting a “bouquet” of severe complications: thrombophlebitis, cellulitis, erysipelas, trophic ulcers, varicose eczema... But this disease can be easily and radically treated - if you turn to professionals for help in a timely manner.

The mechanism of development of the disease is quite simple. Contrary to the law of gravity, blood moves through the veins of the legs from bottom to top. That's why nature provided the veins lower limbs special valves that prevent downward flow of liquid. The problem is that the “tricky” valve mechanism quite often fails. Veins lose elasticity, blood stagnates in the vessels and, pushing their walls, causes saccular expansion.

Varicose veins are not distinguished by their nobility: representatives of the fair sex become its victims three times more often than men. Moreover, recently the disease has become younger, affecting women 35-40 years old.

The main candidates at risk are people who spend most of their time standing or sitting position: teachers, surgeons, hairdressers, loaders, sellers. Prolonged exposure to the sun or heat also contributes to the disease: for example, working in the kitchen or in the field in the summer, but doctors consider genetic predisposition to be its main cause.

Pregnancy and childbirth give a strong impetus to the development of varicose veins. During this period, a woman’s body undergoes hormonal changes, the frame of the vein walls softens. At the same time, the growing uterus can compress the veins in the pelvis and impede the outflow of blood from the lower extremities, increasing the load on the veins.

Gaiters, ankle boots, a belt, and tights are very useful. Flower pollen will speed up recovery.

The problem of teachers' health is very relevant, first of all, because teachers are responsible persons in the upbringing and education of the younger generation. In many ways, the success of the pedagogical process depends on how satisfactorily the teacher feels. After all, you must admit, it is very difficult to apply the theory of an individual approach in practice when you are worried about any ailments. Therefore, teachers should be very careful about their own health and remember that they are at risk for various occupational diseases.

Working at school or university is constant stress. Therefore, professional diseases of teachers are mainly an unstable nervous system, diseases of the cardiovascular system, chronic fatigue, neuropsychiatric diseases. It must be remembered that such diseases often arise due to constant overload of the body and, accordingly, decreased immunity. It would be good if the school provided a special room for psychological relief. And you can always install an aquarium at home - this is a wonderful corner of peace and tranquility. Such occupational diseases of teachers can be prevented by taking sedatives based on medicinal herbs.

Cap. Card for the heart. Calcium

The next illness that can overtake a teacher is throat diseases: laryngitis, pharyngitis. The profession requires you to talk a lot during the lesson. However, if you have a cold, you risk losing your voice at the end of the working day. Overvoltage vocal cords and infection can have unpredictable effects. At this time, it is best to give children independent or test work using cards.

Miracle "Diamond"

Disorders of the musculoskeletal system are, unfortunately, also occupational diseases of school teachers and others educational institutions. Until late at night, teachers have to check students’ work while sitting in one position, most often uncomfortable. This can cause osteochondrosis and other problems with the joints and spine. Make it a habit to do light exercise throughout the day. An interesting idea would be to take a five-minute break during class to exercise with your students. This will defuse the tense atmosphere and give optimism and cheerfulness to both the teacher and the students.

Problems with the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, ulcers) are those occupational diseases of teachers that arise as a result of poor nutrition and a special, specific lifestyle. Having a snack at a quick fix sandwich and rushing back to class, the teacher does not think about how his diet affects his overall well-being. But it's the right job gastrointestinal tract- This is the basis for strengthening the immune system.

Occupational diseases of businessmen

There is no need to convince the reader that the professional activity of an entrepreneur is associated with frequent stress - today this seems obvious. Everyone knows what stress is. Less known “among the people” is what consequences it brings. And these consequences, a distant echo of the emotional turmoil suffered by a person, have an important impact not only on a person’s health, but also on his professional success. Especially if his activities are related to managing people and material resources, and making responsible decisions. That is why information about what stress leads to and how to resist it is important for every entrepreneur.

Just as the body and soul of a person are inextricably linked, the negative impact of stress affects both his mental-psychological state and his physical-physiological state. Let us list these manifestations, at least briefly. So, at the psychological level, the most typical traces of prolonged stress and accumulated unreacted negative emotions, so characteristic of entrepreneurial activity, serve:

a) Worry, anxiety. Particularly characteristic of prolonged stress is the so-called free-floating, unmotivated anxiety, in other words, groundless fears about unlikely events that may never happen.

b) depressed mood (even depression). It is also possible sudden changes moods, often accompanied by uncontrollable violent outbursts of emotions and outbursts of aggressiveness.

c) Groundless irritability and conflict caused by external reasons, but the internal state of a person.

d) Violation of emotional contacts and relationships with loved ones - from emotional coldness, insensitivity to open hostility.

e) A person’s desire to isolate himself from the surrounding reality, which does not meet his expectations.

At the bodily level, stress reactions find, perhaps, their most vivid expression. Often, due to lack of awareness, stress-related discomfort is perceived as symptoms various diseases. IN best case scenario this causes fruitless visits to doctors, and in the worst case, it can lead to a person leaving for imaginary illness. Let us mention only the most common physical manifestations of stress:

a) promotion blood pressure, often occurring spasmodically and accompanied by a feeling of a rush of heat (“blood rushed to the head”). If a person comes to the attention of doctors, then such emotional reactions can cause an erroneous diagnosis of hypertension and subsequent lengthy attempts at its unsuccessful treatment.

b) Various pains, most often in the head (resembling a migraine, sometimes accompanied by dizziness) and neck, in the heart (mistakenly regarded as heart disease, especially if they are associated with palpitations or interruptions) and in the abdomen (simulating peptic ulcers).

c) Shortness of breath, feeling of a “lump” in the throat, “choking” of the voice.

d) Loss of appetite - from complete aversion to food to attacks of ravenous hunger.

e) Sleep disturbances - insomnia or, conversely, drowsiness, which does not, however, bring adequate rest. Sleep often becomes anxious and restless due to unpleasant dreams.

f) Various sexual problems.

Naturally, the described psychological and physical manifestations of stress ultimately lead to a decrease in social activity and a decrease in the effectiveness of professional activities. First of all, this occurs due to constant (even at the beginning of the working day or after rest) and seemingly causeless fatigue associated with gradually accumulating exhaustion of the nervous system. The reason for the decrease in performance is also increased distractibility and inability to concentrate.

The effects of stress, such as anxiety and depression, also contribute to a detrimental decline in work productivity. A person in such a state sees everything in a gloomy light and is imbued with the expectation of negative events. He does not expect anything good from life, and life itself seems to adapt to this pessimistic forecast. As a result, a person begins to be haunted by a kind of “unlucky syndrome” - he begins to get sick more often and longer, attracts failures (both in his professional activities and in his personal life), various incidents and accidents (including with a serious outcome).

Another dead end that long-term stress leads to is emotional and professional “burnout.” This manifests itself as a loss of interest in work, manifested in the desire to perform one’s duties formally, without interest in final result, "anyhow." (A similar phenomenon is popularly known as “hack”, “suck”, etc. - perhaps in no language other than Russian there are so many synonyms to denote an indifferent attitude towards work). In far-reaching cases, it comes to aversion to work; sometimes even the very thought of that task, which until recently seemed to be the meaning of life, becomes hateful. Due to the emerging lack of self-confidence among specialists and managers, there is a decrease in professional self-esteem, doubts and hesitations arise when it is necessary to make independent decisions. This leads to attempts to shift complex solutions on the shoulders of others and thereby evade responsibility.

In search of a way out of such a crisis situation, a person grabs at “improvised” means, trying to relieve nervous tension with alcohol, nicotine (used in larger quantities than usual) or abusing medicines, calming the nervous system. And if the stressful situation drags on, then the consequences of this method of “release” become obvious - instead of a means that helps at least briefly smooth out the severity of a psychological problem, providing temporary relief, it itself turns into a problem.

Another common way to avoid psychological problems, especially those related to professional activity, is to pay even more attention to work, as they say, to throw yourself into it headlong. A person in this state is said to be a “workaholic.”

At first glance, this method of stress relief seems constructive. But only at first glance. Upon careful examination, the contradiction inherent in it becomes obvious - the fact is that this paradoxical method is built... on self-deception. In essence, the main thing that a person is trying to achieve in this way is to get away from stress, deceiving himself with a contrived amount of work. In fact, a “workaholic” simply subconsciously strives to occupy all his time with work, to load his brain with troublesome but ordinary things in order not to think about other problems that are painful for him. So, for example, a person often tries to throw himself into work in order to escape from problems in his personal life.

Thus, workaholism in modern medicine is considered as a kind of disease, akin to alcoholism and other types of painful addictions (“drug addiction from work”). The difference from banal drunkenness is that although workaholism causes noticeably less damage to health, it can nevertheless cause greater damage to professional, especially commercial, activities. The fact is that, like many “real” diseases, workaholism is contagious. If the head of a company suffers from it, then he tries to spread a similar lifestyle throughout his entire organization.

What's the result? Alas, companies infected with workaholism always lose to their competitors in the long term. There are several reasons for this.

In a workaholic company, there is usually a problem of excessive control over the activities of employees, which actually covers up the manager’s insecurity and his total distrust of employees. (In such cases, the “boss” usually adheres to the belief: “You can’t rely on anyone. If you want to do something right, you have to do it yourself.”) That is why employees strive to “not stand out” and not contradict established stereotypes, not to show initiative , do not propose new non-standard solutions (based on the belief that “initiative is punishable”).

For this reason, a company whose motto is workaholism is a closed system: it lacks flexibility. New information that conflicts with established views is simply not perceived. Employees, in order not to attract criticism from their boss, unanimously try not to admit their own mistakes and refuse to notice existing problems, turning a blind eye to them until the last moment, convincing themselves and others: “Everything is fine in our office!” Therefore, such a company lags behind the dynamically changing market situation and often “steps on the same rake” many times, returning to the same problems in its activities, instead of rebuilding its stereotypes and getting rid of problems.

Another problem of workaholism is the unrealistic desire to be first in everything, even in spite of common sense. Hence the unrealistic claims and “Napoleonic plans” (psychologists call this overcompensation - as you know, Napoleon was a man of small stature. The desire for power helped him rise above those around him, at least in a figurative sense, and thereby compensate for his inferiority complex). At the company level, such tendencies often develop into a desire for grandiosity and gigantomania. In entrepreneurial activity this can manifest itself, for example, in the desire to increase inventory regardless of the liquidity of the product. Or strive to increase sales regardless of the profitability of such activities. Or in freezing funds allocated to ill-considered investments associated with “large-scale” projects so that “the business moves to the next level.” Or in ineffective but expensive advertising that has a greater impact on the seller’s ego than on the buyer’s behavior.

Contrived “heroism” is inextricably linked with workaholism. Here we can recall a slogan from our recent past: “There is always room for heroism in life.” At the same time, ordinary, everyday work seems to be a “battle for the harvest,” “a fight with nature,” etc. The favorite style of work of those who suffer from workaholism is to first create difficulties for themselves, and then heroically overcome them. Such employees are always busy with vigorous activity to resolve the latest emergency situations. For them, these crisis situations themselves are simply vital, literally like air - and all in order to load themselves with work beyond the usual. As a result, an enterprise in which workaholics are “at the helm” is in a situation of chronic emergency work and an endless (albeit partly far-fetched) crisis.

To conclude our brief overview of the problem of stress and its relevance for entrepreneurs, it is necessary to provide at least brief recommendations on how this problem can be solved.

Cap. Calcium. Socks

A system for identifying and treating occupational diseases has long been adopted throughout the world. Thus, weavers and machine builders suffer from hearing impairment, miners and workers in hazardous industries suffer from diseases of the respiratory system. And only business representatives do not have clearly defined occupational diseases. Although typical “business diseases” already exist.

Symptom #1: No fun

In first place business people Of course, there are psychological problems. Syndrome chronic fatigue familiar to every person engaged in intellectual work. Doctors even called it “manager syndrome.” Irritability, feeling of lack of time, anxiety, constant fear doing something wrong, inability to relax, insomnia - these are the signs of the ill-fated syndrome.

It's no secret that entrepreneurship remains one of the most stressful areas of activity. In this case, stress as such may not be detected. But it is enough to take a closer look at the outwardly prosperous and always smiling entrepreneur - and the diagnosis will become clear.

First place with stressful conditions In the list of diseases of businessmen, others also share nervous disorders- for example, neurosis. If you realize that you are focused exclusively on work and have stopped noticing the other joys of life, if it constantly seems to you that competitors are pressing in from all sides, that your own employees are trying to deceive you, then it’s time to rest. In the literal sense of the word. Otherwise, in your illusions, you can reach absurd things that will only harm your cause. And health.

Symptom No. 2: both the heart and stomach hurt

In second place - cardiovascular diseases: angina pectoris, hypertension. Recently, men of working age - 40-45 years old - are increasingly being admitted to hospitals with heart attacks, which were previously considered a disease of old age. The reason lies mainly in nervous overstrain and inability or unwillingness to rest normally.

In third place are diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Many businessmen, even though they have money and opportunities, eat on the run and on whatever they can find. Direct and shortest path to gastritis and further to peptic ulcers.

By the way, pay attention to what you are sitting on. Many entrepreneurs, having achieved a certain financial well-being, first of all acquire the chair of their dreams with a soft leather seat. And they take the first step towards a not at all funny disease - hemorrhoids.

Because for its development better conditions and you can’t think of: a sedentary lifestyle, plentiful food and long sitting on a soft surface - whether it’s an office chair or a car seat. As a result, the blood in the pelvis stagnates, which leads to inflammation of the hemorrhoids. Do not want extra hemorrhoids in your already stressful life - give up the easy chair.

Symptom No. 3: demon in the rib

It is well known that in the second half of the nineties there was a surge in alcoholism among entrepreneurs. For some, it was caused by dizziness from success. Others tried to relieve stress in this way. The result of all the stories was the same - an appeal to doctors, and already at the stage of formed dependence. The businessmen underwent treatment anonymously. Many of the "former alcoholics" after cleansing the body and coding and today continue to successfully and soberly conduct their business. True, there are those who have not managed to cope with addiction to drinking, sold their business or simply went bankrupt.

By the way, alcoholism is not a purely male prerogative. Very often, business women turn to doctors for help. It is much more difficult to treat them, because, as a rule, personal tragedies are added to the typically “professional” problems in women.

But the practice of venereologists says that “diseases of love” are among the risks of male businessmen, and of a certain age category. Usually, venereal diseases“Catching” entrepreneurs of middle and older age, who decided to fully appreciate the charms of their social and financial situation. “Gifts” in the form of chlamydia, gonorrhea and other nasty things are given to their benefactors by young mistresses and “escort” girls, in other words, highly paid prostitutes for VIPs. As a result, wealthy lovers with "gray hair" spend big money to get rid of venous diseases.

“Office” diseases: You need to know the enemy by sight

You don't have to be a pilot or a tiger tamer for your profession to be considered hazardous to your health.

You can comfortably spend your days in the office, where you have easy chairs, air conditioning, a coffee machine and other benefits of civilization, but still make a lot of diseases. And without even noticing how it happened...

I got up in the morning, quickly got ready and ran to work. During a break between tasks, I had a cup of coffee with my colleagues and snacked on cookies. I was too carried away by the new project and did not have time to have lunch - okay, a bun bought in the passage and quickly eaten with another espresso will do ... A familiar situation?

Then you shouldn’t be surprised when your stomach suddenly makes itself known. Chronic diseases of the digestive system often punish hurried office workers for poor nutrition. It all starts with you giving up breakfast. At first, deliberately - because I overslept or took too long to style my hair. And then the desire to eat disappears completely, as a result you get used to starting the work day on an empty stomach.

But in the office you still develop an appetite, as a result you snack every hour - either candy, or cookies, or something else tasty. And at the same time you wash down the sweets with coffee. All these harmful things on a stomach empty from the night are a direct road to gastritis and ulcers. Well, if you add to this a penchant for fast food, which replaces a full meal, you can say goodbye to a normal metabolism. Just like with a good figure.

Haemorrhoids

Please note that when we sit, the pressure on the spinal discs in the lumbar region increases 4 times. At the same time, flabby abdominal muscles do not support the spine at all, which means that it has to withstand this load on its own. As a result, the lower back sags, the stomach sags and the internal organs begin to shift.

And this cannot but affect all processes taking place in the body - from digestion to bile formation. In addition, a sedentary lifestyle leads to vein thrombosis (which can result in a heart attack), poor circulation in the pelvic organs ( sex life then it will be covered with a copper basin) and hemorrhoids.

Saggy breasts

Many office workers complain of pain in thoracic region spine - as if a knife is piercing between the shoulder blades. Muscle spasm in this area leads to curvature of the back. As a result, young ladies who sit in front of the computer all day long, with age, acquire a characteristic stoop, difficulty breathing and, alas, saggy breasts.

Migraine and dizziness

The main problem of office employees is physical inactivity, or lack of mobility. If throughout the working day you get up from your office chair only when absolutely necessary, you can get a whole bunch of all kinds of diseases. First of all, a sedentary lifestyle begins to cause overstrain in the cervical spine.

All those who work at a computer for a long time are very familiar with nagging pain in the neck and shoulders. But few people think about what consequences this could lead to. unpleasant symptom. But problems in this area are fraught with impaired blood circulation in the head, which, in turn, causes frequent migraines and even attacks of dizziness.

Dry eye

Not only the computer, but also the air conditioner and batteries, or rather, the air dehydrated by them, can cause damage to vision. This technique can cause the so-called “dry eye syndrome” - redness, burning and foreign body sensation. This serious illness which even leads to loss of vision.

To avoid such developments, buy special drops - vasoconstrictor or moisturizing. The first ones are the fastest and most effective way to defeat redness. However, you should not get carried away with them: use them only as a last resort, otherwise there is a risk that your eyes will get used to the drops and stop producing their own tear fluid.

Moisturizing preparations, similar in composition to human tears, are suitable for daily use, but this does not mean that they can be instilled every hour: several times a day is enough to take care of your eyes.

By the way, the most useful drugs are those that do not contain preservatives: due to their absence, the drops are absolutely safe, but, alas, they do not last long and are expensive.

Office allergies

From time to time, wipe your mouse, keyboard, telephone with disinfectants - everything that you often touch with your hands. Remember, bacteria and viruses do not sleep! By the way, attention to hygiene will also help you in the fight against diseases such as office allergies - runny nose and cough all year round. She is called toxic substances, which are highlighted by equipment (printer, scanner, etc.).

True, it will not be possible to completely defeat this disease with the help of wet cleaning. You will have to go to the doctor and select a drug that reduces the sensitivity of the nasopharynx.

Attention!

If you don’t want to put on glasses soon, don’t forget that the distance from your eyes to the monitor should be 50-60 cm. Don’t place your computer near a window or under a lamp, because looking at the screen in too bright light is harmful. And give your eyes a rest: close them for at least 5 minutes every 40-45 minutes.

In any enterprise in the manufacturing industry there are harmful, hazardous factors affecting the health of workers. All of them are subject to standardization and regulation. But, unfortunately, no one is insured against an accident or occupational disease. To prevent this disease, it is important to follow labor safety standards, instructions, etc.

Industrial injuries and occupational diseases at work

It is important to distinguish between the concepts of occupational diseases, accidents, and work-related injuries. An occupational illness is a chronic or acute deterioration in the health of a worker associated with long-term exposure to harmful factors, which as a result lead to temporary or permanent loss of ability to work. An accident is an instantaneous event that occurred during the performance of production tasks, leading to temporary or permanent disability, or to the death of the employee. An occupational injury is considered the result of an unfortunate incident. Many industrial injuries are called occupational injuries.

What does the concept of industrial accident and occupational disease include?

An accident includes the following situations:

• When performing production work.
• On the way to the enterprise or back home while traveling vehicle external organization.
• During the Saturday.
• In the event of an accident directly on the equipment.
• Injury to another employee.

Occupational deterioration in health can be acute or chronic. Cases of exposure to an employee of a harmful factor are classified as acute. Chronic disease occurs after prolonged or constant exposure to harmful factors. Chronic means long-term or permanent loss of ability to work.

The main causes of occupational diseases at work

The causes of occupational diseases are similar to the causes of industrial injuries. They are divided into 5 groups:

1. Technical. This group includes production problems with machines, units, and devices. For example, malfunction, leakage of toxic liquids, ventilation problems.
2. Organizational. Lack of management control, no protective equipment provided, violation of rest time, lack of instruction and prevention.
3. Economic. To this group are added insufficient funding for labor protection, unacceptable reductions in staff, and reductions in time standards.
4. Sanitary and hygienic. Failure to comply with sanitary standards, vibration, low lighting, gas pollution, hazardous radiation.
5. Psychophysiological. Here they note the fatigue of the worker, the monotony of the actions performed, and the negative atmosphere of the team.

Some experts point out additional group reasons, which contains factors emanating from the worker. For example, deliberate violation of labor safety standards, arriving at work drunk.

Classification of occupational diseases in production

The classification of such ailments involves five groups, among which the following are distinguished:

1. Ailments under the influence of chemical factors. Such diseases include various types of intoxication along with their consequences.
2. Diseases due to dust, dirt, etc.
3. Diseases due to physical factors. They include hypothermia, heat strokes, laser radiation.
4. Illnesses caused by stressful situations, overvoltage.
5. Deterioration of health due to biological factors. These include infectious pathologies.

Prevention of industrial injuries and occupational diseases

Prevention of work-related injuries involves strict adherence to personal safety and occupational safety standards. Initially, all this must be provided by the management of the organization. Seminars and briefings on occupational safety and health must be conducted regularly. For the purpose of prevention, fault repairs must be carried out directly at workplaces, as well as protective equipment must be equipped.

To prevent injuries and occupational diseases, it is enough to follow these measures:

1. Prevention of technical equipment of production.
2. Organizational prevention, which consists of observing and implementing norms and labor protection rules.
3. Prevention of diseases according to sanitary and hygienic standards. Provides for the creation of excellent meteorological conditions for workplaces.
4. Economic prevention measures take over the financing of contributions for protective equipment.
5. Legal measures for the prevention of diseases and injuries. They consist in regulating duties, as well as responsibility for strict compliance with standards.

Occupational diseases at work - accident investigation

The main document regulating the investigation of occupational diseases is the Regulations on the Investigation and Recording of Occupational Diseases of the Russian Federation. The algorithm of actions is as follows:

1. Preliminary diagnosis.
2. Informing Rospotrebnadzor authorities together with the employer. Occurs within 1 day.
3. After receiving the notification, Rospotrebnadzor begins to investigate the circumstances of the illness.
4. A description of sanitary and hygienic working conditions is created and sent to the medical institution.
5. Reported to authorities labor inspectorate about this case.

The investigation is carried out by a special commission consisting of 5 people, among which there are: a representative of the management of the enterprise, a labor protection specialist, an authorized health organization, a person from a trade union, a member of Rospotrebnadzor. The duties of the commission are to analyze the situation, the root causes of the ailment, to identify the perpetrators of the event, as well as to determine ways to prevent and eliminate harmful factors. After the end of the investigation, after 3 days, an act on the case of an occupational disease is issued in 5 copies to each member of the commission. A month after the issuance of the act, the employer is obliged to provide the issued order, as well as means of preventing diseases and inform Rospotrebnadzor about the course of fulfilling the commission's instructions. After the final diagnosis is made, the information is transferred to the bodies of Rospotrebnadzor, the employer, the company, the insured.

Introduction

3. Occupational diseases caused by exposure to chemical production factors

4. Occupational diseases caused by exposure to physical production factors

5. Occupational diseases caused by overstrain of individual organs and systems

Conclusion

List of used literature

Introduction

Occupational diseases arise as a result of exposure of the body to unfavorable factors in the working environment. Clinical manifestations often don't have specific symptoms, and only information about the working conditions of the sick person makes it possible to establish whether the identified pathology belongs to the category of occupational diseases.

Only some of them are characterized by a special symptom complex, caused by peculiar radiological, functional, hematological and biochemical changes.

There are acute and chronic occupational diseases. An acute occupational disease occurs suddenly, after a single exposure to relatively high concentrations of chemicals contained in the air of the work area, as well as levels and doses of other unfavorable factors. Chronic occupational disease occurs as a result of long-term systematic exposure to unfavorable factors on the body.

For the correct diagnosis of an occupational disease, it is especially important to carefully study the sanitary and hygienic working conditions, the patient’s medical history, and his “professional route,” which includes all types of work performed by him since the beginning of his working life.

Some occupational diseases (silicosis, berylliosis, asbestosis) can be detected many years after contact with industrial hazards. The reliability of the diagnosis is ensured by careful differentiation of the observed disease with similar clinical symptoms diseases of non-occupational etiology.

A certain help in confirming the diagnosis is the detection in biological media of the chemical that caused the disease, or its derivatives.

In some cases only dynamic observation for a patient for a long time makes it possible to finally resolve the issue of the relationship of the disease with the profession.

1. What is an occupational disease, classification

Occupational disease - a disease caused by exposure to harmful working conditions.

Occupational poisoning is an acute or chronic intoxication caused by a harmful chemical factor in production conditions.

Acute occupational disease - a disease that has arisen after a single (during no more than one work shift) exposure to harmful occupational factors.

Chronic occupational disease - a disease that has arisen after repeated and prolonged exposure to harmful production factors.

Acute occupational poisoning is a disease that occurs after a single exposure harmful substance for the worker. Acute poisoning can occur in the event of accidents, significant violations of the technological regime, safety regulations and industrial sanitation, when the content of a harmful substance significantly, tens or hundreds of times, exceeds the maximum permissible concentration. The resulting poisoning can result in a quick recovery, be fatal, or cause subsequent permanent health problems.

Chronic poisoning is a disease that develops after systematic long-term exposure to small concentrations or doses of a harmful substance. This refers to doses that, when administered once into the body, do not cause symptoms of poisoning.

Occupational morbidity is the number of persons with a newly diagnosed disease in the current calendar year, classified as employed.

A group occupational disease is a disease in which two or more people become ill (suffered) at the same time.

The term “occupational diseases” has a legislative and insurance meaning. The list of occupational diseases is approved by law.

There is no uniform classification of occupational diseases. The most accepted classification is based on the etiological principle. The following occupational diseases caused by exposure are distinguished:

industrial dust;

chemical production factors;

physical production factors;

biological production factors;

overvoltage.

Many professional factors in modern conditions have a complex impact.

2. Occupational diseases caused by exposure to industrial dust (pneumoconiosis)

Pneumoconiosis - dust diseases of the lungs.

Industrial dust is the name given to those produced by production process the smallest particles of a solid substance that, entering the air, remain suspended in it for a more or less long time.

When dust of different composition enters the lungs, lung tissue may react differently.

Localization of the process in the lungs depends on physical properties dust. Particles of small diameter can reach the alveoli; larger particles are retained in the bronchi and nasal cavity, from where they can be removed from the lungs by mucociliary transport.

Among pneumoconiosis, anthracosis, silicosis, silicosis, metalloconiosis, carboconiosis, pneumoconiosis from mixed dust, pneumoconiosis from organic dust are distinguished.

Silicosis or chalicosis is a disease that develops as a result of prolonged inhalation of dust containing free silicon dioxide. Most of the earth's crust contains silica and its oxides.

In the lungs, silicosis manifests itself in two main forms: nodular and diffuse sclerotic (or interstitial).

In the nodular form, a significant number of silicotic nodules and nodes are found in the lungs, which are miliary and larger sclerotic areas of round, oval or irregular shape, gray or gray-black. In severe silicosis, the nodules merge into large silicic nodes, occupying most of the lobe or even the entire lobe. In such cases, they speak of a tumor-like form of pulmonary silicosis. The nodular form occurs when there is a high content of free silicon dioxide in the dust and with prolonged exposure to dust.

In the diffuse sclerotic form, typical silicotic nodules in the lungs are absent or there are very few of them. This form is observed when inhaling industrial dust with a low content of free silicon dioxide. With this form in the lungs connective tissue grows in the alveolar. Diffuse emphysema, bronchial deformation, various forms of bronchiolitis, and bronchitis develop.

Tuberculosis often accompanies silicosis. Then they talk about silicotuberculosis, in which, in addition to silicotic nodules and tuberculous changes, so-called silicotuberculous foci are found. The right half of the heart is often hypertrophied, up to the development of a typical pulmonary heart. Patients most often die from progressive pulmonary heart failure.

3) Asbestosis

The onset of asbestosis varies widely. It happens that pulmonary manifestations occur after 1-2 years of contact with asbestos, but most often - after 10-20 years. The pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis is unknown.

Asbestos fibers, despite their large length, are thin, so they penetrate deeply into the alveoli in the basal regions of the lungs. Fibers are found not only in the lungs, but in the peritoneum and other organs. The fibers damage the walls of the alveoli and bronchioles, which is accompanied by small hemorrhages.

The carcinogenicity of asbestos depends not on its type, but on the length of the fibers. Thus, large fibers do not have carcinogenic properties, while small fibers have a pronounced carcinogenic effect. Risk of occurrence lung cancer in patients with asbestosis it increases approximately 10 times, and if we are talking about smokers, then 90 times. Patients with asbestosis are twice as likely to have cancer of the esophagus, stomach, and colon. It has now been proven that asbestos potentiates the effects of other carcinogens.

4) Beryllium

Beryllium dust and vapors are very dangerous and can cause lung damage and the development of systemic complications.

Depending on the solubility and concentration of beryllium in the inhaled air, two types of pneumoconiosis develop: acute and chronic beryllium, the latter being the most common.

Acute berylliosis usually occurs when soluble acidic beryllium salts enter the body. Acute bronchopneumopathy develops. Clinically, it appears with a dry cough, difficulty breathing, fever and asthenia. as a result. Microscopically, such pneumonia has the character of “acute chemical pneumonia.” Within a few weeks, patients may die from pulmonary failure. In less severe cases, complete recovery is observed. In acute berylliosis there are no granulomas.

Every employer is obliged to provide insurance to its staff not only against risks. The law imposes obligations on them to provide insurance to workers against occupational diseases. This is due to the fact that sometimes working conditions provoke extremely negative consequences for the body. If the performance of labor functions is associated with such unfavorable conditions, then there is a high risk of getting either an aggravation of chronic illness, or develop a new disease associated with professional activity.

What is an occupational disease

Dysfunction of internal organs and important systems life activity caused by harmful working conditions is called an occupational disease. The most common misconception is the substitution of the concepts of occupational illness and deterioration of health due to overwork or excessive physical activity during the work shift.

A typical example in this regard is the statement of emotional overstrain and general mental depression among theater artists who serve long time. This dysfunction of the body is explained by the need to live through someone else's tragedy and drama. In addition, the consequences of an accident that leads to serious injury at work cannot be considered as an occupational disease.

An occupational disease is a functional disorder of the body, aggravated due to systematic contact with known harmful factors or substances while performing work duties. In addition, this group includes a variety of complications associated with chronic abnormalities that already exist in the body.

Occupational pathologies are determined by the level of organization of the technological process. The statistics of occupational diseases is determined by the quality of workplace equipment and general conditions in production. This problem is not a purely medical issue.

Just as the prevention of occupational injuries requires certain measures from the administration, the prevention of occupational diseases consists of comprehensive provision of workers with acceptable working conditions.

According to existing legislation, responsibility for carrying out prevention and ensuring decent working conditions rests with the employer. It does not matter whether we are talking about a state or private enterprise.

Methods for diagnosing occupational diseases

Chronic occupational disease is a field of study in occupational pathology. This science examines the mechanisms of occurrence and the picture of the disease that arose as a result of the presence of industrial hazards.

Occupational pathology considers the following important questions:

• diagnostics;
• treatment methods;
• set of preventive measures.

Moreover, the therapist analyzes disorders in the body. The initial diagnosis is based on the history. Then the medical card records all the features of performing professional tasks and the nuances of organizing the workplace.

Currently, there is a classification of the root causes of occupational diseases:

Based on diagnostic data, the health worker determines the occupational disease or its absence.

Types of occupational diseases

Specialists distinguish between chronic and acute occupational diseases. Acute ones include those that provoke a one-time impact on the body of a shock dose of a toxic substance. The fact of intense intoxication entails negative consequences, including death.

A chronic disease develops if an employee performs professional duties for a long period of time under the influence of negative factors on the body.

Specialists classify occupational diseases as follows:

• hypothermia / overheating caused by weather conditions;
• intoxication caused by toxic factors;
• convulsive illness caused by weather conditions;
• hypertensive crisis caused by pressure drops in the atmosphere;
• tuberculosis or candidiasis caused by biological factors;
• dust fibrosis caused by contact with dust;
• dust bronchitis caused by excess concentration of organic dust in the atmosphere;
• bronchial asthma caused by contact with allergens, which include corrosive gases or solvents;
• venous diseases and thrombophlebitis caused by the need to perform professional duties while standing;
• hearing loss caused by working in conditions of elevated decibels;
• cataract caused by radiant energy;
• vibration disease caused by static tension of a muscle group during monotonous body movements.

Most often, workers in large industries with aggressive working conditions are susceptible to occupational diseases.

The list of occupational diseases also includes teachers' illnesses from systematic nervous stress. In addition, radiation sickness may also be characteristic of health workers serving patients in X-ray rooms.

How to register an occupational disease

Registration is carried out according to a certain algorithm. First of all, you need to make an appointment with your local therapist. This is the first step; it is needed to obtain a referral to a clinic for examination by specialized specialists.

After a thorough medical examination (or series of medical examinations), a diagnosis is determined.

Further steps involve:

1. Contact Rospotrebnadzor. This body immediately begins an inspection of the place of work.
2. Obtaining an extract from the labor protection inspector.
3. Receiving the commission's report on the work.
4. Contact the pathological center (this is where the final conclusion is issued).

In order for the work of the pathological center to be as complete as possible, it is necessary to submit all collected certificates and documents. In addition, for an objective conclusion from the center’s specialists, it is necessary full complex analyzes and possibly additional studies.

How is an occupational disease investigated?

The regulatory document that establishes the procedure for investigating occupational diseases is government decree number 967 (12/15/2000). It is relevant for:

• employees who perform duties under a civil contract or under;
• students who take part in employment contract.

As soon as a diagnosis of an acute occupational disease is established, the clinic is obliged to send a notification to the sanitary biological supervision. In addition, the employer receives a corresponding notice.

Work to identify all the circumstances provoking the disease should begin with sanitary and epidemiological surveillance employees no later than 24 hours. Their responsibility is to compile an objective description of compliance with the sanitary standards of the workplace. This descriptive characteristic is then redirected to medical institution.

The employer retains the right to disagree with the conclusions. He can go to court, refuting the provisions of the sanitary and hygienic characteristics.

If a chronic occupational disease is established, the medical institution will perform similar actions. In this case, 2 weeks are allocated for the formation of sanitary and hygienic characteristics.

Then, within a month, the victim must be sent with all accompanying documents and certificates to a medical institution that has specialists in occupational pathology on staff.

Here the final diagnosis must be made.

Then (no later than 3 days) the final diagnosis must be presented:

• employer;
• insurance fund;
• center for sanitary and epidemiological surveillance;
• medical institution.

The employer is given 2 weeks to create an investigation commission.

It includes:

• legal representative of the employer or the production manager himself;
• representative of the labor protection department;
• members of the trade union committee;
• enterprise health worker.

The commission has 3 days to draw up a report based on the results of the commission’s work. The act must have 5 copies, which are sent to all of the above authorities. In this case, the act must reflect information about the degree of guilt of the victim (up to 25 percent). Situations are allowed in which the victim himself provoked harm by non-compliance with safety precautions or failure to comply with sanitary standards during the performance of work duties.

The report on the presence of an occupational disease with all accompanying documents is stored for 75 years in the institution that carried out the investigation.

The commission aims not only to find out an objective picture of what happened with this particular employee. Sanitary and epidemiological supervision specialists must develop recommendations for implementing a set of measures that will prevent the occurrence of similar cases in the future.

Occupational disease: what are the payments and benefits?

The final stage is the work of the insurance company. She scrupulously monitors all submitted documents to decide whether this is an insured event.

A positive decision is made if the diagnosis was made during the validity of the employment contract. Accordingly, due to temporary or partial loss of ability to work, the employer pays certain compensation.

All accruals are made upon provision of sick leave, in which the identified illness is directly related to the professional duties of the employee.

If all formalities are met, the victim has the right to count on:

• one-time benefit;
• monthly payments in the absence of the ability to continue working.

In the event of the death of an employee, payments are due to his relatives. If an employee has lost the practical opportunity to work in his specialty, then he is entitled to a one-time compensation. It is determined by the depth of the disease and the degree of loss of performance.

For all calculations, the size is relevant wages, which the employee ceased to receive due to illness or loss of ability to work.

Retirement age may come earlier if a specialist determines the presence of an occupational disease. Moreover, the pension for occupational illness is, as a rule, larger than the usual one.

In addition, the victim can count on receiving benefits from the employer. At the same time, he is entitled to additional social protection in the form of providing a means of transportation due to disability (as needed).

Finally, every victim has the right to legal services on issues of further rehabilitation.