Work - Volume 52, issue 1

Authors: Saunders, S.L. | MacEachen, E. | Nedelec, B.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Effort is a concept that underlies programs assisting people with work disability to re-enter the labour force. During re-entry, attention is paid to the effort invested by the worker with an injury. However, for those with chronic work disability, the motivation to return to work (RTW) may be questioned by benefit service providers and healthcare professionals. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper is to describe the efforts made by people with long term work-disability to regain a foothold on the labour market. METHODS: This phenomenological study explored the meaning of work for people …with long-term work disability and job loss. Twenty-seven interviews were conducted with nine participants. A thematic analysis was completed of the collected data. RESULTS: A key finding of this study is the variety and degree of effort exerted by participants to regain employment, despite time away from the workplace and system barriers. Effort was exerted to retain pre-accident employment; to obtain new work following job loss; and, to remain in a new job. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that if the RTW effort of people with long-term work disability is not fully acknowledged or supported, this population will remain unemployed where their strengths as competent, experienced workers will continue to be wasted. Show more

Keywords: Musculoskeletal injury, chronic pain, phenomenology

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-141977

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 103-114, 2015

Authors: Nowrouzi, Behdin | Lightfoot, Nancy | Carter, Lorraine | Larivière, Michel | Rukholm, Ellen | Schinke, Robert | Belanger-Gardner, Diane

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to determine: 1) if quality of work life (QWL), location of cross-training, stress variables, and various demographic factors in nurses are associated with work ability, and 2) nursing occupational stress, QWL, and various associated factors are related with nurses' work ability. There is limited research examining the obstetrical nursing environment. Given the amount of time and energy people expend at the workplace, it is crucial for employees to be satisfied with their lives at work. METHODS: This cross sectional study was conducted in 2012 in four hospitals in northeastern …Ontario, Canada. A stratified random sample of registered nurses (n= 111) were selected. RESULTS: The majority of participants were female (94.6%) ranging in age from 24 to 64 years (M = 41.9, s.d. = 10.2). For the stress and QWL model, one variable: QWL (home-work support - see Methods for definition) (p= 0.015), cross-trained (see Methods for definition) nurses (p= 0.048), and having more than 4 patients per shift (p= 0.024) significantly contributed to the variance in work ability scores. In the logistic regression model, the odds of a higher work ability for nurses who received home-work support were estimated to be 1.32 (95% CI, 1.06 to 1.66) times the odds of a higher work ability for nurses who did not receive home-work support. CONCLUSIONS: Work ability in the work environment of obstetrical nursing is important. To be high functioning, workplaces should maximize the use of their employees' actual and potential skills. Show more

Keywords: Stress, work ability, workplace, obstetrics, nurses, employment, quality of work life, work organization

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-141976

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 115-122, 2015

Authors: Ogutu, Jack | Park, Woojin | Son, Minseok

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Realizing population-level discomfort evaluation and control of common static posture holding tasks requires an understanding of the inter-individual variation in discomfort perception. However, little research is available. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the types of mathematical probability distribution suitable for modeling population discomfort distributions of various static posture holding tasks and characterize how the magnitude of inter-individual variation in perceived discomfort varies across static posture holding tasks. SUBJECTS: Ten male and ten female subjects participated. METHODS: The participants conducted static posture holding for a set of 180 short-duration (20-second-long) static …posture holding tasks and subjectively rated the overall perceived discomfort for each task using the Borg CR-10 discomfort scale. Statistical analyses were conducted according to the study objectives. RESULTS: The static posture holding tasks exhibited multifarious discomfort distribution patterns. Probability distribution identification analyses indicated that no single distribution type could represent population discomfort distributions universally across different static posture holding tasks. Sample standard deviation of discomfort ratings data quantifying the magnitude of inter-individual variation in discomfort perception varied considerably across static posture holding tasks. It seemed to have a positive relationship with sample mean within the range of the experimental conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Population-level evaluation of discomforts associated with static posture holding tasks must be based on careful examinations of empirical discomfort distributions. Show more

Keywords: Static exertion, postural stress, discomfort, inter-individual variation

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-141944

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 123-136, 2015

Authors: Rukh, Lala | Choudhary, Muhammad Abbas | Abbasi, Saddam Akber

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Employee job satisfaction has been a research focal point throughout the world. It is a key factor when measuring the performance of an organization and individuals. A leading engineering goods manufacturing enterprise in Pakistan, has been used in this case study. In Pakistan, very limited research has been done with respect to factors affecting job satisfaction. Some research has been done in medical institutions, banks, universities and the information technology sector but large public sector organizations in Pakistan have not been studied. A theoretical foundation for researching factors affecting job satisfaction in large organizations is outlined. …OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to analyze various demographic, financial and non-financial factors affecting the satisfaction level of employees and to study the effects across different employee groups. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY: This study is based on quantitative data analysis. The employees of the organization under study have been divided into 10 homogeneous groups based on their departments. Information on job related factors (affecting the satisfaction level) have been collected from subsamples of each group using a self-administered questionnaire. An overall sample of 250 (out of total 1100) employees has been selected. Before conducting the survey, reliability of the questionnaire was measured using Cronbach's alpha. The normality of data was also examined using the Kolmogorov Smirnov test. Hypotheses devised to address the research questions were tested by using non-parametric Spearman correlation and Kruskal-Wallis tests. RESULTS: The response rate was 73.2%. Research findings indicated the significant factors that affect the satisfaction level of employees. Median group differences existed between responses based on age, work experience, salary and designation (i.e. job position/rank) of employees. Job satisfaction was also positively and significantly associated with job related factors such as pay, promotion, relation with employees, relation with supervisor, work stress and job security. CONCLUSIONS: Job satisfaction of employees was significantly affected by demographic, financial and non-financial factors. Employees who are older than 50 years, with greater experience, and in higher management positions were more satisfied with pay, promotion, work stress, work condition and working environment. The employees' departments did not play any significant role in affecting satisfaction levels. Show more

Keywords: Job satisfaction, demographic factors, financial factors, non-financial factors

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152039

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 137-152, 2015

Authors: Jansson, Inger | Björklund, Anita | Perseius, Kent-Inge | Gunnarsson, A. Birgitta

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Since work ability is manifested in working life and ``bought'' by employers, employers perceptions of the concept are important to understand. Studies have shown that people with health problems want to take part in the labour market, but experience difficulties in gaining access. Additionally, studies have demonstrated the doubt felt by employers when they consider hiring a person with a disability. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to identify and characterise employers' conceptions of work ability. METHODS: The study design was qualitative with a phenomenographic approach. Six male and six female employers from various workplaces …and geographical areas in Sweden were interviewed. RESULTS: Three domains were identified: employees' contributions to work ability, employers' contributions to work ability and circumstances with limited work ability. Work ability was regarded as a tool in production and its output, production, was the main issue. The employees' commitment and interest could bridge other shortcomings. CONCLUSIONS: The employers highlighted their own contributions in shaping work ability in order to fit with work circumstances. Health problems were not the only limiting issues; other circumstances, such as individual characteristics and contextual factors, could limit work ability too. Knowing the importance of commitment and interest is valuable in work rehabilitation. Show more

Keywords: Disability, vocational rehabilitation, work demand

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152037

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 153-167, 2015

Authors: Nelson, Candace C. | Allen, Jennifer D. | McLellan, Deborah | Pronk, Nico | Davis, Kia L.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Accumulating evidence suggests that worksite interventions integrating worksite health promotion (WHP) and occupational safety and health (OSH) may be more efficacious and have higher participation rates than health promotion programs offered alone. However, dissemination of integrated programs is complicated by lack of tools for implementation - particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study is to describe perceptions of acceptability and feasibility of implementing an integrated approach to worker health that coordinates WHP and OSH in SMBs. METHODS: In September to November 2012, decision-makers for employee health programming …within SMBs (< 750 employees) in greater Minneapolis were identified. Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed to develop an understanding of perceived benefits and barriers, awareness, and capacity for implementing an integrated approach. RESULTS: Worker health was widely valued by participants. They reported strong management support for improving employee health and safety. Most participants indicated that their company was open to making changes in their approach to worker health; however, cost and staffing considerations were frequently perceived as barriers. CONCLUSIONS: There are opportunities for implementing integrated worksite health programs in SMBs with existing resources and values. However, challenges to implementation exist, as these worksites may lack the appropriate resources. Show more

Keywords: Workplace, health promotion, occupational health, information dissemination

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152038

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 169-176, 2015

Authors: Kvas, Andreja | Seljak, Janko

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Health care employees, especially nurses, are often victims of workplace violence. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to study the frequency and degree of violence against nurses and to analyze correlations between various sources and types of violence. METHODS: A survey was carried out using a representative sample of nurses in Slovenia. Data was collected using a questionnaire designed specifically for the purposes of the survey. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive, correlational and inferential statistics. RESULTS: A total of 692 nurses participated in the survey. Verbal violence (n …= 416) and physical violence (n = 180) were identified. The most frequent perpetrators of verbal violence were patients (listed as a source of violence by 39.3% of the respondents) and peers (39.6%), with the most forceful identified as physicians and patients. Physical violence against nurses was most often initiated by patients (20.8%) who were also the most forceful source in this category. Nurse leaders were found to be the most frequent and forceful sources of violence in terms of leadership level. A positive correlation between external (patient and relatives) and internal (physician and nurse) sources of violence was determined CONCLUSIONS: A better understanding of the association between different types and sources of violence may support the development of action-oriented violence management. Health care organisations should limit violence at its less severe levels and at its primary source. Show more

Keywords: Verbal violence, physical violence, leaders, patients, peers, Slovenia

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152040

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 177-184, 2015

Authors: Zunjic, Aleksandar | Brkic, Vesna Spasojevic | Klarin, Milivoj | Brkic, Aleksandar | Krstic, Dragan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Work of crane operators is very difficult and demanding. Therefore, it is very important that the cabin of a crane be designed on the basis of relevant anthropometric data. However, it is very difficult to find a research that considers anthropometric convenience of crane cabins. OBJECTIVE: From the theoretical viewpoint, it is important to perceive and to classify effects of the anthropometric incompatibility of crane cabins. Globally, the objective is to consider the anthropometric convenience of existing crane cabins, and possibilities for improvements of their design from the ergonomic point of view. In this regard, …it is significant to detect constraints that impede or hinder the work of the crane operators, which could be overcome with certain anthropometric solutions. The main objective is to examine whether and to what extent is justifiable to use anthropometric data that are obtained on the basis of general (national) population, during designing the crane cabins. METHODS: For the assessment of existing crane cabins and the work of operators, four methods were used: observation of the work of the operators and design solutions of the cabins, the checklist approach, interviewing of operators and the experimental research based on obtaining the data on the population of crane operators. RESULTS: Results of the analysis based on the method of observation, analysis based on the application of the checklist, as well as interviewing of the operators indicate that certain construction constraints of the components in the cabins are the main reasons of reduced visibility and improper working postures of operators. All this has caused the emergence of continuous musculoskeletal loading of the crane operators. The results of the anthropometric research that were obtained on the population of crane operators in this case study suggest that there is a statistically significant difference, when compared data of this population of workers with anthropometric data from the general population. CONCLUSIONS: Analyzed workplaces in crane cabins do not correspond to the majority of operators from the anthropometric standpoint. The conducted anthropometric analysis has been indicated that could be made the mistake, if dimensions of the cabin and layout of equipment would be relied on data derived from the general population of citizens. In order to achieve greater precision in the design and configuration of equipment, it is recommended using the data that are obtained directly on the population of the crane operators when designing the cabin. Show more

Keywords: Operator's workplace, evaluation, ergonomic design

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152042

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 185-194, 2015

Authors: Seven, Memnun | Bahar, Mine | Akyüz, Aygül | Erdoğan, Hatice

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The workplace has been deemed a suitable location for educating many women at once about cancer screening. OBJECTIVE: To determine how group education about early diagnostic methods for breast and cervical cancer effects women's behavior and readiness to receive mammography and Pap smear. METHODS: This semi-interventional study was conducted at a textile factory in Istanbul, Turkey. Female workers (n= 125) were included in the study. A participant identification form and knowledge evaluation form developed for this study, along with the transtheoretical model, were used to collect data. A 45-min interactive group education was …given to the participants. RESULTS: Upon contacting participants 3 months after group education, 15.4% (n = 11) stated that they had since received a mammogram and 9.8% (n = 7) a Pap smear. As suggested by the transtheoretical model, group education increased participants' readiness to receive cancer screening, along with their knowledge of breast and cervical cancer. CONCLUSIONS: Group education positively impacted women's knowledge of cancer and their readiness to receive mammography and Pap smear. Group education can potentially create awareness of cancer screening tests among women and improve their readiness to receive such tests. Show more

Keywords: Cancer screening, educational intervention, participation, women

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152041

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 195-201, 2015

Authors: Mosaad, Dalia Mohammed | Abdel-Aziem, Amr Almaz

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Carrying the school bag may lead to forward leaning of the head and trunk which may result in spinal deformities. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of carrying a backpack on neck angles and ground reaction forces (GRFs) in children. METHODS: 3-D motion analysis system, with a force plate, was used to examine the effect of carrying backpack on neck angles and GRFs of thirty children with mean age (10.06 ± 1.31 years), mean weight (34.56 ± 6.9 kg), and mean height (138.63 ± 9.82 …cm). The unloaded posture was compared with posture when carrying a backpack. The static test was used to assess the three angles of the neck, and the dynamic test was used to assess the GRFs. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the craniohorizontal angle and shoulder sagittal posture between carrying backpack and without backpack (p = 0.153 and 0.272) respectively. There was a significant decrease in the craniovertebral angle in carrying backpack than without backpack (p = 0.032). There was a significant increase in GRFs values in carrying backpack than without backpack (p < 0.032). CONCLUSION: Carrying backpack with a load 7.5% of the child's body weight alters the head posture and GRFs values. Show more

Keywords: Children, load carriage, neck angles, ground reaction forces

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152043

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 203-209, 2015

Authors: Friesen, Emma L. | Theodoros, Deborah | Russell, Trevor G.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: This paper proposes usability-for-one as a new conceptual framework for understanding usability as it relates to Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology (R&AT). It argues that just as ergonomics for individual R&AT users is practiced as ergonomics-for-one , usability as it relates to individual R&AT users can be conceptualised as usability-for-one . The implications for R&AT service delivery and research are discussed.

Keywords: Ergonomics, rehabilitation and assistive technology, service delivery, usability for one

DOI: 10.3233/WOR-152003

Citation: Work, vol. 52, no. 1, pp. 211-213, 2015