[Prevention of occupational injuries in foundries: multidisciplinary intervention and evaluation of effectiveness]

There is a lack of field studies aimed at reducing occupational injuries (OI), particularly in foundries.

To evaluate effectiveness of multidisciplinary intervention in foundries.

The study was carried out in two foundries (cast-iron=A, non-ferrous=B). Since 1999-2000, a multidisciplinary intervention was developed, by a team managed by the occupational physician, including safety personnel and workers' representatives. Interventions regarded maintenance, protective equipment, procedures, training, health surveillance (HS), fitness for work, first aid. The desired outcome was a reduction in injury rates.

In foundries A and B, respectively 522 and 90 OI occurred in 1997-2007, accounting for 10,500 and 2,300 lost work days. Statistical analysis showed a significant decrease in incidence and frequency in both foundries. HS allowed for human factor and fitness for work evaluation, return-to-work management. Safety culture, behaviour and procedures positively changed.

The study was effective in reducing OI rates and improving a number of secondary outcomes. The same intervention, taking into account Evidence Based Prevention, is ongoing in about 50 foundries.