Occupational illness
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A total of 122 occupational illnesses were reported in 2007. Of these, 8 (2006: 23) led to days off work (integrated into the LTAR, representing 2% of the total LTA cases). There were no recorded chronic poisonings, as a result of the protection measures that are in place for handling potentially hazardous substances. The most prominent health issue remains musculoskeletal disease, accounting for 64% (2006: 84%) of the occupational illnesses reported. Work related skin diseases were partly due to two cases of occupational allergy (not leading to lost time), but mostly to non-specified irritation.
The two illnesses occurring as a result of physical exposure are two cases of noise-induced hearing loss.
Health, Safety and Environmental Performance 2007
Find out more about the Novartis Health, Safety and Environment Data 2007