Work - Volume 41, issue Supplement 1

Authors: Fischer, Klaus | Zink, Klaus J.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Based on a system-theoretic discussion of sustainability, this paper aims to develop a conceptual model of a sustainable work system which is consistent with the definition of ergonomics by the IEA in 2000 (but also with earlier definitions) as well as with the triple bottom line understanding of sustainable development – comprising the management of human, social, ecological and economic capital in a balanced manner.

Keywords: Sustainable development, sustainable work system, system theory, keyword four, keyword five

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0059-3900

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3900-3905, 2012

Authors: Hasle, Peter | Jensen, Per Langaa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The development of globalised supply chains is a major challenge for sustainability. For several years, there has been discussion within the profession whether and how ergonomics and human factors can play a role. Based on our research, we have identified five major challenges from global supply chains especially related to the social aspects of sustainability: (1) criteria for social sustainability, (2) the role of key performance indicators in the management of supply chains, (3) the constant changes in supply chains, (4) the challenge in establishing participation, and (5) the development of agency and regulatory mechanisms. There are obviously no clear …and simple solutions to these challenges. One possible avenue for progress might lie in acquiring a greater understanding of the challenges from global supply chains and developing a strategy which combines social and long-term business sustainability. Starting from such a basis, the next step would be to find ways for the ergonomics and human factors community to create international collaboration which can impact specific global supply chains. Show more

Keywords: Sustainability criteria, organisational change, participation, regulation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0060-3906

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3906-3913, 2012

Authors: Arnoud, Justine | Falzon, Pierre

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This study examines the way in which Shared Services Centers (SSCs) were implemented in a French multinational company. It aims to characterize the change according to the capabilities model developed by Amartya Sen: what are the effects of SSCs in terms of capabilities development and developmental quality of work, i.e. in the enabling potential of work? A 3-step methodology has been used: first, an investigation was conducted in a pay service of a local entity moving into SSC in 2013; second, two investigations were conducted in another pay service of a SSC: first, a few months after the change, and …then, one year after the change (the same operators were interviewed). Results show a tendency to the decrease of the enabling potential. Additionally, it was noted that administrators are kept away from the design process and have to struggle with inappropriate rules. The efficiency and sustainability of the SSC are questioned; in this context, the human factor specialist has an important role to play. Show more

Keywords: Strategic restructuring, organizational change assessment, enabling environment, ergonomic intervention, design process for sustainability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0061-3914

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3914-3919, 2012

Authors: Cason, Dott. Luigi Dal

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The psycho-physical stress is a risk to all intents and purposes, finally acknowledged, it requires increasing attention. Measures for its protection are reflected in the appropriate application of organizational policies on a human scale, or in respect of the “macro-ergonomics”. This work consists on several inter-disciplinary tools available to the proper prevention, outbreaks of work-related stress.During work, adequate rests are important to prevent work related physical and mental fatigue. The strategies for maintaining a healthy balance between work rate and work breaks, may differ depending on the individual, subjective habits and peculiarities related to the work environment. Resting does not …necessarily mean “going to break”. The break-time is important as the work-time. While the latter is regulated, the first is not always clearly defined, though necessary. Knowing the employment contract is the first step towards the implementation of their rights relating to periods of suspension from the activity of work is also essential for high performance working. Breathing exercises, massage therapy, biofeedback, role-playing are some of the tools used during work breaks to prevent mental and physical fatigue. At the end music has a rhythm by alternating strong and weak accents. If the musical notes represent the “vertical” trend of music (melody), figures and pauses, inserted into the rhythmic structure of the measure, regulate the duration of sounds over time and determine the “horizontal” trend of a song. Transferring this concept on work, is meant to understand, using a metaphor, the importance of respect of changes in both vertical and horizontal trends inside a cycle. Show more

Keywords: Psyco-Phisical Stress, Risks, Work Environment, Breaks, Time-Planning, Rithm, Music

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0062-3920

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3920-3922, 2012

Authors: Karwowski, Waldemar | Ahram, Tareq Z.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: In order to leverage individual and organizational learning and to remain competitive in current turbulent markets it is important for employees, managers, planners and leaders to perform at high levels over time. Employee competence and skills are extremely important matters in view of the general shortage of talent and the mobility of employees with talent. Two factors emerged to have the greatest impact on the competitiveness of complex service systems: improving managerial and employee’s knowledge attainment for skills, and improving the training and development of the workforce. This paper introduces the knowledge-based user-centered service design approach for sustainable skill and …performance improvement in education, design and modeling of the next generation of complex service systems. The rest of the paper cover topics in human factors and sustainable business process modeling for the service industry, and illustrates the user-centered service system development cycle with the integration of systems engineering concepts in service systems. A roadmap for designing service systems of the future is discussed. The framework introduced in this paper is based on key user-centered design principles and systems engineering applications to support service competitiveness. Show more

Keywords: Service Systems, Performance, Sustainability, Ontology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0063-3923

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3923-3929, 2012

Authors: Caple, David C.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Many simple MSD risk management tools have been developed by ergonomists for use by workers and employers with little or no training to undertake injury prevention programs in their workplace. However, currently there is no “toolkit” which places such tools within an holistic, participative ergonomics framework and provides guidance on how best to use individual tools. It is proposed that such an holistic approach should entail initial analysis and evaluation of underlying systems of work and related health and performance indicators, prior to focusing in assessment of MSD risks stemming from particular hazards. Depending on the context, more narrowly focused …tools might then be selected to assess risk associated with jobs or tasks identified as problematic. This approach ensures that biomechanical risk factors are considered within a broad context of organizational and psychosocial risk factors. This is consistent with current research evidence on work- related causes of MSDs Show more

Keywords: Holistic approach, MSD tools, systems approach, biomechanical risks, participatory ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0688-3930

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3930-3932, 2012

Authors: Macdonald, Wendy

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The World Health Organisation (WHO) network of Collaborating Centres in Occupational Health aims to promote the development, implementation use of “toolkits” for workplace use in reducing the risk of injuries and disease. As a major partner within this network, the International Ergonomics Association is committed to developing a toolkit to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. This paper outlines the kind of conceptual framework required to support this work.

Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, causal models, physical hazards, psychosocial hazards, risk management, intervention effectiveness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0689-3933

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3933-3936, 2012

Authors: Occhipinti, Enrico | Colombini, Daniela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: When studying WMSDs, several determinants and their interrelationship are considered as relevant. Hence the necessity of an “holistic” approach to prevention, especially when preparing technical rules and strategic plans. There is a strong request, from OSH agencies and operators, for developing “simple” tools for risk assessment and management. In this context WHO asked IEA to develop a “Toolkit for WMSD prevention”. The paper presents one of the main contribution to this WHO project, focused on selecting tools at different level for hazard identification, risk estimation and management. Proposals are based on two essential criteria: Acting on a step-by-step approach; Taking …into account the presence of multiple influencing factors. The proposals consider: A Basic Step devoted to hazard identification by operative “key-enter” questions, that can be operated also by non-experts. A First Step, (quick assessment), for identifying 3 possible conditions: acceptable; high risk present; more detailed analysis (via tools presented at second step) necessary. This step can be operated by non-experts with only some specific training. A Second Step, where recognized (i.e. from international standards or guidelines) tools for risk estimation are used. This step can be operated only by persons with some specific training. Show more

Keywords: WMSDs, Risk assessment, Simple tools

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0690-3937

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3937-3944, 2012

Authors: Bao, Stephen | Silverstein, Barbara

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are debilitating for workers and costly for employers. Existing exposure assessment tools were modified for rapid job physical exposure and company organizational exposure assessment. These were augmented with injured worker interviews to “put the meet on the bones” in characterizing risk. These risk assessments are conducted in all industry sectors

Keywords: musculoskeletal disorders, exposure assessment, surveillance, work culture

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0691-3945

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3945-3947, 2012

Authors: Colombini, Daniela | Occhipinti, E. | Di Leone, G.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: During the last Congress of the International Ergonomics Association (IEA), Beijing, August 2009, an international group was founded aimed at developing a “toolkit for MSD prevention” within IEA and in collaboration with World Health Organization (WHO). Possible users of toolkits are: members of health and safety committees, health and safety representatives, line supervisors; labor inspectors; health workers implementing basic occupational health services; occupational health and safety specialists. According to ISO standard 11228 series and the new Draft CD ISO 12259–2009: Application document guides for the potential user, a computer software ( in Excel®) was create dealing with hazard “mapping” …in handicraft The proposed methodology, using specific key enters and quick assessment criteria, allows a simple ergonomics hazard identification and risk estimation. Thus it makes possible to decide for which professional hazards a more exhaustive risk assessment will be necessary and which professional consultant should be involved (occupational physician, safety engineer, industrial hygienist, etc.). Show more

Keywords: handicraft, ergonomics hazards, biomechanical overload, toolkit

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0692-3948

Citation: Work, vol. 41, no. Supplement 1, pp. 3948-3955, 2012