Electroencephalographic findings in evaluation of suitability for working with video terminals
Franić-Smiciklas, N.
Arhiv Za Higijenu Rada i Toksikologiju 45(4): 373-377
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-1254 PMID: 7654152 Document Number: 431129
The subjects in the study were 327 bank employees (291 women and 36 men) aged between 21-60 years, with 6-20 years of experience in working with video display units, and 78 persons (73 women and 5 men), aged 18-24 years, who intended to start working with video display units and had no previous work experience. Electroencephalography was among the tests applied in periodical medical examinations of VDU workers and at the preemployment examination of candidates for a VDU job. In 3.4% of the examined VDU workers borderline changes were detected and in 15.0% disrhythmic changes were found. At preemployment examination 35.9% of the electroencephalographic findings were borderline, 23.1% showed slight disrhythmic changes, and 6.4% showed diffuse disrhythmic changes with or without lateralization. Although the study did not establish any particular relationship between VDU work and electroencephalographic findings, in the author's opinion electroencephalography can be recommended in periodical medical examinations of employed persons as well as at preemployment medical examinations. Electroencephalographic findings showing deviations from normal stress the need for a more careful health control. The changes detected at preemployment examination, if a person in spite of certain electroencephalographic abnormalities has been given a job involving VDU work, can be used later on for a realistic assessment of the potential risk/effects relationship.