104. Jahrestagung der Deutschen Ophthalmologischen Gesellschaft 2006
Abstract
Abstract
DO.07.01 Visual functions in industrial workers – screening results in a production work place Wilhelm B.1, Durst W.1, Weckerle P.1, Sell M.1, Fahr C.2, Röck R.2
1Sphere of competence Autonomous Nervous System and Safety Studies of the Steinbeis Transfer Centre Biomedical Optics and Functions Testing (STC) at the University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen; 2DaimlerChrysler AG, Sindelfingen Objective: It is frequently stated that brighter light in the work place results in better visual performance and has other biological and psychological effects. We prepared a study for DaimlerChrysler AG about effects of bright light in the work place to test if such hypotheses hold true. In the preparation of that study we investigated visual functions of workers in the target area at baseline conditions of 500 lux. This screening examination led to surprising results.
Methods: All workers interested in study participation in the carcass finish of Mercedes E-Class at the plant Sindelfingen were examined by the study team in rooms close to the production area. The following parameters were assessed by the methods mentioned: Visual Acuity (far and near) – ETDRS; Contrast sensitivity – Pelli-Robson; Colour vision – Farnsworth-Munsell-Hue 28; twilight vision and glare – Mesoptometer II; accommodation – accommodometer (Clemente-Clark); pupillary function; anterior and posterior eye segments. The study was approved by the local Ethics Committee and each participant had given his written consent.
Results: In 21 out of the 63 workers aged 17 – 63 years (median 46 y) visual acuity with own correction was worse than 0.8 log Mar. In four workers glaucoma was suspected. Two workers had insufficient twilight vision, one subject showed a protan colour deficiency. Two individuals were diagnosed for AION and corneal endothelium opacity.
Conclusions: In this sample of an unselected population we found a surprisingly high morbidity and a substantial amount of suboptimal optical correction. In front of this background it seems necessary to further investigate visual functions in work places.
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