Work - Volume 46, issue 1

Article Type: Other

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131753

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 1-1, 2013

Authors: Baker, Nancy A. | Moehling, Krissy

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Awkward postures during computer use are assumed to be related to the fit between the worker and the workstation configuration, with greater mismatches leading to higher levels of musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS). The objective of this study was to examine if chronic MSS of the neck/shoulder, back, and wrist/hands was associated with 1) discrepancies between workstation setups and worker anthropometrics and 2) workers' postures. PARTICIPANTS: Secondary analysis on data collected from a randomized controlled …cross-over design trial (N=74). METHOD: Subjects' workstation configurations, baseline levels of MSS, working postures, and anthropometrics were measured. Correlations were completed to determine the association between postures and discrepancies between the worker anthropometrics and workstation configuration. Associations were examined between postures, workstation discrepancies and worker MSS. RESULTS: There were only 3 significant associations between worker posture and MSS, and 3 significant associations between discrepancies in worker/workstation set-up and MSS. CONCLUSION: The relationship between chronic MSS and the workers computer workstation configuration is multifactorial. While postures and the fit between the worker and workstation may be associated with MSS, other variables need to be explored to better understand the phenomenon. Show more

Keywords: Computer workstation, musculoskeletal discomfort, workstation assessment, ergonomics

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1480

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 3-10, 2013

Authors: Butler, Robert J. | Contreras, Michael | Burton, Lee C. | Plisky, Phillip J. | Goode, Adam | Kiesel, Kyle

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To examine whether measures of physiologic function and fundamental movement are predictive of injury in firefighters during a training academy. PARTICIPANTS: 108 firefighter trainees enrolled in the training academy. METHODS: Baseline measures of physical performance and fundamental movement patterns were obtained in firefighters entering a training academy to determine predictors of injury. The physical performance measures were standardized tests of individual maximum performance on a set of four different …total body tests and one firefighter specific performance test, the tower test. Measurements of fundamental movement patterns consisted of the seven tests of the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) along with the composite score.Performance on each of the individual tests was examinedto determine if any of the variables were predictive of injury. RESULTS: ROC curve analysis established that a FMS cut score of ⩽ 14 was able to discriminate between those at a greater risk for injury. In addition, the deep squat and push up component of the FMS were statistically significant predictors of injury status along with the sit and reach test. CONCLUSIONS: Injury in firefighters during academy can be predicted by baseline measures of musculoskeletal movement and physiology. Show more

Keywords: Occupational injury, injury screening, physical fitness

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121545

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 11-17, 2013

Authors: Cramm, Jane M. | Nieboer, Anna P. | Finkenflügel, Harry | Lorenzo, Theresa

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Disability limits access to education and employment, and leads to economic and social exclusion. This study compared barriers to employment among disabled and non-disabled youth in South Africa. METHODS AND PARTICIPANTS: Fieldworkers interviewed 989 youth [18–35 years; 523 (52.9%) disabled, 466 (47.1%) non-disabled] at nine sites in five provinces (Gauteng, North West, Kwazulu Natal, Western Cape, Free State). Differences in employment between disabled and non-disabled youth were described and logistic regression analyses were …used to predict barriers to employment within both groups. RESULTS: Employment differed between disabled and non-disabled youth (32.9% vs. 13.1%; p ⩽ 0.001). Lack of job availability and skills were associated significantly with unemployment among non-disabled youth. For disabled youth, unemployment was additionally associated with social attitudes and poor health. CONCLUSIONS: This research showed that disabled youth are facing more barriers to employment compared to non-disabled youth and that the unemployment rate among disabled youth is higher. Disabled youth thus faced additional challenges to employment and special attention must be given to reduce these barriers. Show more

Keywords: Attitudes, social exclusion, health, skills, unemployment

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121521

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 19-24, 2013

Authors: Dunstan, Debra A. | Covic, Tanya | Tyson, Graham A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study used a Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model to identify the factors influencing the future work expectations and outcomes of employees with a musculoskeletal injury. PARTICIPANTS: Australians with a compensable work injury (N=174), mean age=43.7 years, 53.2% male, 48.3% back injury , and 34.2% unskilled. METHODS: A TPB model of the target behavior 'working, or continuing to work … three months from now' was constructed. A questionnaire measuring the …model's components was completed at baseline and three-months follow-up. RESULTS: The model met standard psychometric requirements. Attitude, Subjective Norm and Perceived Behavioral Control explained 76% of the variance in Behavioral Intention (R^{2} = 0.76, p< 0.001). Behavioral Intention (the expectation to return to work) explained 51% of the variance in work participation at follow-up (Nagelkerke R^{2} =0.51, p< 0.001; sensitivity=86.4%, specificity=71.2%). The strength of key influences on expectations varied according to employment status, but included the availability of modified duties, social aspects of work, the opinion of the treating doctor, co-worker support, pain, and functional limitations. CONCLUSION: The TPG is a useful model and conceptual framework for integrating the biopsychosocial determinants of return to work (RTW) and identifying the influences on future work expectations and outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Work disability, modified work, co-worker support

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1481

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 25-37, 2013

Authors: Edmunds, Sarah | Stephenson, Duncan | Clow, Angela

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Workplaces have potential as a setting for physical activity promotion but evidence of the effectiveness of intervention programmes in small and medium sized enterprises is limited. This paper reports the impact of an intervention which trained existing employees to promote physical activity to their colleagues. PARTICIPANTS: Eighty-nine previously low-active employees from 17 small and medium sized organisations participated. METHODS: A mixed methods evaluation design was used. Quantitative data were collected at baseline …and 6 months later using an online questionnaire. Qualitative data from a series of 6 focus groups were analysed. RESULTS: Repeated measures t-tests showed significant increases over time in physical activity, general health rating, satisfaction with life and positive mood states. There were significant decreases in body mass index (BMI), perceived stress, negative mood states and presenteeism. There was no change in absenteeism. Analysis of focus group data provided further insight into the impact of the intervention. Five major themes emerged: awareness of physical activity; sustaining physical activity behaviour change; improved health and well-being; enhanced social networks; and embedding physical activity in the workplace culture. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows it is feasible and effective to train employees in small and medium sized enterprises to support their colleagues in physical activity behaviour change. Show more

Keywords: Natural helper intervention, social support, well-being, health promotion in the workplace

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121523

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 39-49, 2013

Authors: Eklund, Mona | Erlandsson, Lena-Karin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The outcomes, in terms of quality of life and satisfaction with rehabilitation, of the 16-week Redesigning Daily Occupations (ReDO) programme as a work rehabilitation method for women with stress-related disorders was evaluated. It was hypothesised that, compared to women who got Care as Usual (CAU), the ReDO group would improve their quality of life and self-mastery more, and that those differences would prevail at follow-ups after 6 and 12 months. Another hypothesis was that the …ReDO group would be more satisfied than the CAU group with the rehabilitation received. PARTICIPANTS: Forty-two women were recruited to the ReDO intervention and a matched comparison group got CAU. METHODS: The data consisted of self-ratings of quality of life, self-mastery and satisfaction with the work rehabilitation received. RESULTS: The first hypothesis was only partially verified. No general group differences were identified, but closer examination indicated different trajectories in the two groups. There was an increase in quality of life in the ReDO group from baseline to completion of the work rehabilitation, and further increase at the six-month follow-up, while the quality of life in the CAU group was stable over time. Regarding self-mastery there was an increase from baseline to completed rehabilitation in the ReDO group but a pronounced decrease in the CAU group. Thereafter the group differences levelled out. The second hypothesis was verified. The ratings of client satisfaction were considerably higher in the ReDO group. CONCLUSION: The ReDO seems a promising work rehabilitation method for strengthening quality of life and self-mastery for the target group. Future research should include larger groups and be based on randomised controlled designs. Show more

Keywords: Quality of life, self-mastery, work rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121524

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 51-58, 2013

Authors: Jonsson, Robin | Lidwall, Ulrik | Holmgren, Kristina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Introduction: Earlier research has shown that bad psychosocial working conditions contribute to sick-leave. Some theorists argue that skewed gender composition can be one of the factors contributing to bad psychosocial working conditions. Objectives: We examine whether workplace gender composition has an effect on the association between job strain and sick-leave. Methods and participants: Associations were assessed using a case-control study with Swedish data collected in 2008 (n=5595). Results: Results indicated that there was an association …between high strain jobs and sickness absence among both women (Adj. OR 2.04, CI95% 1.62–2.57) and men (2.24, 1.67–3.01). Furthermore, both women (2.87, 1.34–6.26) and men (2.53, 1.74–3.69) in male-dominated workplaces had the highest risk for sickness absence due to high strain jobs. Male-dominated workplaces were, in general adverse for both women and men. Conclusions: The results indicated that a minority position strengthens job strain for women while it weakens the association for men. Using modern gender theories, we could argue that some of these results might be explained by the general use of masculinity as the social norm in the labor market. However, findings from this study need to be validated by further research. Show more

Keywords: Gender composition, job strain, psychosocial working conditions, sickness absence

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121529

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 59-66, 2013

Authors: Lochhead, Lois E. | MacMillan, Peter D.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Oswestry disability index (ODI) is the most widely used measure of perceived disability for low back conditions. It has been adopted without adaptation in functional capacity evaluation (FCE). Rigorous testing of the ODI with modern psychometric methods, in this setting, is warranted. OBJECTIVE: To determine the psychometric properties of the ODI in FCE: unidimensionality; differential item functioning; item coverage and to identify poorly functioning items, allowing for improvement of these items and …recalibration of the scale. METHODS: Rasch analysis, specifically Masters' partial credit model, was conducted on data. PARTICIPANTS: 133 work-disabled individuals presenting for FCE in northern British Columbia, Canada. RESULTS: All items had one poorly functioning option. Items were rescaled from six categories to five, improving the psychometric properties of the ODI as a unidimensional (disability due to back pain) scale. Item difficulty range is sufficient for a population with mild to severe disability. CONCLUSION: Although two of the ten ODI items functioned marginally unsatisfactorily in the unrevised state, the 5-option revised ODI appears superior. Use in clinical settings across a broad spectrum of disability levels could help establish its psychometric properties. Health professionals should be aware that the ODI may perform differently depending on client population. Show more

Keywords: Functional capacity evaluation, self-report questionnaire, low back pain, item analysis, perceived ability

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121537

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 67-76, 2013

Authors: Melkas, Helinä

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The study investigates ways in which technology use may help municipalities improve productivity in elderly-care services. A case study of Finnish elderly-care services provides responses concerning impacts, decisions and options in technology use. METHODS: The research data were collected during a 'smart home pilot' implemented in four housing service units. Over 60 assistive devices were introduced in the smart homes used during short-term housing periods. PARTICIPANTS: Both customers and care staff's experiences as well as …processes related to the use of assistive devices were investigated on the basis of survey questionnaires, interviews and feedback. RESULTS: Assistive device-related operational processes were investigated with the help of concepts of 'resource focus', 'lost motion' and 'intermediate storage'. Four central operational processes were identified. Design and desirability as well as costs, such as opportunity costs of assistive devices were also a focus. Significant factors related to productivity were disclosed in this way. CONCLUSIONS: Technology use versus productivity needs to be 'circled' from the points of view of individual users, workplaces, service processes, and larger technology options. There must be long-term patience to introduce technology properly into use to produce positive impacts on productivity. Customers and care staff have an interlinked, vital role to play as decision-makers' informants. Show more

Keywords: Technology use, social and healthcare, Finland, productivity

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1470

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 77-91, 2013

Authors: Yasmin, R. | Ahmad, R. | Sultana, N. | Sayed, S. | Ahmad, S.A. | Zaman, F. | Moniruzzaman,

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to find out the eye problems of the workers exposed to high temperature in re-rolling mill. PARTICIPANTS: A cross sectional study was conducted among 200 workers of selected re-rolling mills in Chittagong of Bangladesh during April to June 2008. METHODS: Data was collected through face to face interview of the respondents by using a pre tested questionnaire and check list and physical examinations which were completed by Braun Thermo …Scan Ear Thermometer and by Coaxial-plus Ophthalmoscope. Work place temperature and humidity were measured by industrial digital thermometer and hygrometer. RESULTS: Physical examination revealed that 25.5% of participants had inflammation of conjunctiva, 26% had itching of the eyes, 1.5% had corneal inflammation, 13.5% had partial opacity of the cornea, and 20.5% had hazy corneas. Of the total respondents, a majority had redness of the eyes, itching and blurring of vision. Most of the complaints were found to be associated with longer job duration (⩾ 5 years), production workers and high temperature (⩾ 40°C). CONCLUSION: The current study findings recommended that, the workers should be protected by using safety glasses with side shields and by wearing an apron of impervious cloth. There should be a surveillance system on work environments by appropriate authority for monitoring safety and maintenance of industrial hygiene. Show more

Keywords: Inflammation of cornea and conjunctiva, watering of eye, redness of eye, visual problem, furnaces, high temperature

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-2012-1473

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 93-97, 2013

Authors: Ferreira, Lisiane Seguti | Palhares, Dario | Gava, Marília | Seguti and, Vladimir Ferreira | Marasciulo, Antônio Carlos Estima

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Epilepsy affects adults at productive age and interferes with their ability to work. However, the granting of social security benefits to these patients has not received sufficient attention. This article aims to provide a profile of individuals with a previous diagnosis of epilepsy that file claims for social security benefits and a profile of the medical advisory decisions that support the concession of these benefits. PARTICIPANTS: A sample of thirty individuals with illness-related …problems due to epilepsy was selected from the claimants that receive Social Security Incapacity/Sickness benefits. METHODS: An exploratory data analysis of the 188 Social Security medical files of the thirty claimants was performed using the clinical and epidemiological information and the medical advisory criteria. RESULTS: The mean age of the claimants was 39 years and most of them were males in jobs that do not require a lot of schooling. The first claim was filed within an average of four years of employment. On average, each worker files a claim every three months, which entitles him/her to receive incapacity/sickness benefits for seventeen months. The frequency of seizures and the medications used by the claimants were registered in 60% of the medical files. In addition, the description of the physical and neurological exam was incomplete in 50% of the files. Furthermore, 60% of the files did not include the argument or the clinical evidence that was used to justify the concession of a benefit. CONCLUSION: The medical advisory decisions on epileptic workers tend to be inconsistent, overly lenient and generally lacking in clinical evidence. The disparities among the granted benefits indicate the need for the National Social Security System to review and draft specific guidelines for epilepsy. Show more

Keywords: Incapacity, sickness benefits, medical advisory

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131620

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 99-105, 2013

Authors: Plat, Marie-Christine J. | Westerveld, Gre J. | Hutter, Renée C. | Olff, Miranda | Frings-Dresen, Monique H.W. | Sluiter, Judith K.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study i) describes the number of police personnel with PTSD who are working and those who are on sick leave before and after an out-patient-clinic treatment program and ii) examines which factors are related to return to work. PARTICIPANTS: Police personnel treated for PTSD (n=121). METHODS: In this retrospective study all police officers had an intake interview before and an outtake interview following a 16-week treatment for PTSD. Information about several personal characteristics, PTSD …complaints, and work related factors were gathered. A t-test and chi-square test were used to evaluate differences between working police personnel and police personnel on sick leave at intake and outtake. Binary logistic regression was used to test whether the intake data were related to returning to work at outtake. RESULTS: At the start of the treatment half of the police personnel were on sick leave (n=59) and at outtake 48 participants who were not working at intake had returned to work. None of the variables at intake contributed significantly to return to work at outtake. CONCLUSION: The majority of police officers returned to work after the treatment program. We recommend that attention be paid to successful return to work as part of the treatment program, therefore the occupational health professional and employer should be involved. Show more

Keywords: Sick leave, RTW, posttraumatic stress, police officers

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121578

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 107-111, 2013

Authors: Apostolopoulos, Yorghos | Sönmez, Sevil | Shattell, Mona M. | Gonzales, Clifford | Fehrenbacher, Caitlin

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: While trucking in industrialized nations is linked with driver health afflictions, the role of trucking in U.S. truckers' health remains largely unknown. This paper sheds light on links between the trucking work environment and drivers' physical health. …METHODS: Using a cross-sectional design, 316 truckers were enrolled in the Healthy Trucker Survey. Questions included work history, physical and mental health, and healthcare access. PASW 18 was used to examine patterns among factors. PARTICIPANTS: 316 truckers participated. RESULTS: Respondents were mainly full-time, long-haul drivers with over 5 years of experience, and who spent over 17 days on the road per month. While almost 75% described their health as good, 83.4% were overweight/obese, 57.9% had sleeping disturbances, 56.3% fatigue, 42.3% musculoskeletal disorders, and about 40% cardiovascular disease concerns. About 33% had no health insurance, 70% had no regular healthcare visits, 24.4% could not afford insurance, and 42.1% took over-the-counter drugs when sick, while 20.1% waited to reach home for medical care. Exercise facilities were unavailable in over 70% of trucking worksites and 70% of drivers did not exercise regularly. CONCLUSIONS: The trucking occupation places drivers at high risk for poor health outcomes. Prospective studies are needed to delve into how continued exposure to trucking influences the progression of disease burden. Show more

Keywords: Long-haul truckers, trucking work environment, occupational health

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-121553

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 113-123, 2013

Authors: Koch, Lynn C. | Rumrill, Phillip D. | Conyers, Liza | Wohlford, Sarah

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Job retention is a major concern for individuals with chronic illnesses, who represent a rapidly growing vocational rehabilitation (VR) consumer population. The purpose of this article is to examine selected job retention considerations for consumers with chronic illnesses. The authors (a) describe distinguishing characteristics of chronic illnesses in terms of populations affected and psychosocial implications, (b) discuss the vocational implications of chronic illnesses, (c) provide general considerations for the provision of job …retention services, and (d) examine job retention strategies aimed at improving employment outcomes for individuals with chronic illnesses. Show more

Keywords: Chronic illness, job retention, employment, vocational rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131668

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 125-134, 2013

Article Type: Correction

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-131751

Citation: Work, vol. 46, no. 1, pp. 135-135, 2013