Research/Studies

Durham, NC — Researchers at Duke University have identified a new tool they say can help doctors and public health officials track firefighters’ exposures to cancer-causing chemicals, as well as determine when and where the risks may be greatest.

San Diego — Saying “thank you” and expressing other forms of gratitude to co-workers can lead to better cardiovascular response in high-stress situations, results of a recent study show.

Arlington, VA — Roadway workers remain at risk: Around 2 out of 3 highway contractors in a recent survey said motor vehicles had crashed into a work zone their firm operates in the past year.

Tampa, FL — COVID-19 mortality rates among adults with lower levels of education who worked in the labor, service and retail industries were nearly five times higher than other groups in 2020, results of a new study by the University of South Florida show.

Silver Spring, MD — Around 7 out of 10 recently surveyed nurses say staffing has gotten slightly or much worse recently, while nearly half of hospital nurses report an increase in workplace violence.

Cambridge, MA — Few workers receive chiropractic care for low back pain in states where employers or insurers control the selection of medical providers, a recent study of workers’ compensation data shows.

Chicago — The lung tissue of contemporary coal miners contains higher levels of respirable crystalline silica dust than was found in miners of past generations – which may explain an ongoing surge in cases of the most severe form of black lung disease, researchers at University of Illinois Chicago say.

West Lafayette, IN — Engineers from Purdue University say they have developed new technologies that enhance methods of detecting, identifying and quantifying chemicals in various work environments that might traditionally require lab analysis, and could protect workers from potential incidents.

Toronto — A study of large employers in the manufacturing, construction and transportation sectors in Ontario found average returns on investment in workplace safety and health ranging from 24% to 114%.

Toronto — Researchers at York University say they’ve found a link between women who perform shift work and delayed onset of natural menopause.