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Occupational Toxic Effect Episodes in a University Hospital, 2021–2024: A Descriptive Analysis Within the Korean Occupational Disease Surveillance Center

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Toxic effects due to occupational exposures are a substantial yet underreported public health issue. This descriptive study investigated 532 toxic exposure episodes from January 2021 to June 2024 at a single university hospital in the Republic of Korea, identified using the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, codes T51-T70. Methods: = 354). Results: Seasonal trends in Loess decomposition revealed a peak incidence from July to September, largely driven by insect bites. A Bayesian segmented Poisson regression showed that occupational episodes decreased by 34% monthly prior to the establishment of the Korean Occupational Disease Surveillance Center in April 2022 but increased by 48% thereafter. Conclusion: These findings underscore the need for increased surveillance and cross-sector collaboration to improve the detection, prevention, and reporting of occupational poisoning, with the Korean Occupational Disease Surveillance Center playing a pivotal role in strengthening occupational health practices.

Source: Safety and Health at Work

DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2025.07.007

Authors: Yangwoo Kim, Ha-Eun Lee, Jei Kim, Tae-Won Jang

Institutions: Hanyang University Seoul Hospital, Hanyang University, Hanyang University Guri Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Occupational Health and Safety in Workplaces

Subfield: Occupational Therapy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,750