[Occupational disease in construction work].
BACKGROUND
There are very few studies in the Italian and international literature concerning occupational diseases and their prevention in the building industry.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was risk assessment in the building industry.


METHODS
We analyzed the international literature and the results of our cross-sectional study, which involved more than 1000 workers.


RESULTS
The analysis of several studies and of our experience suggests a high occupational risk in this field and shows as main risk factors: noise, dusts, fibers, manual lifting, prolonged static positions, repetitive motions, hand-shoulder and whole-body vibrations, chemicals and weather conditions. In addition, non-occupational risk factors can influence health: e.g., habits and lifestyle, like hypercaloric diet, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption.


CONCLUSIONS
Preventive measures and training initiatives are urgently needed to improve the safety and the health among building workers.
Mosconi
G
G
Unità Operativa di Medicina del Lavoro-Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti, Largo Barozzi 1, 24128 Bergamo. gmosconi@ospedaliriuniti.bergamo.it
Borleri
D
D
Mandelli
G
G
Prandi
E
E
Belotti
L
L
D000328:Adult; D003252:Construction Materials / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D007221:Industry / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D007558:Italy / Q000453:epidemiology; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology; D009787:Occupational Medicine / Q000458:organization & administration; D012307:Risk Factors; D017751:Safety Management / Q000458:organization & administration